Lynn, MA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Lynn, MA?
| Regulation | Details for Lynn, MA |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 11PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: (781) 595-2000 |
11 PM - 7 AM
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Lynn, MA Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Lynn, MA?
Lynn, MA's Chapter 6:13, "An Ordinance Regulating Unnecessary and Excessive Noise," prohibits any excessive, unnecessary, or unusually loud noise that disturbs peace, comfort, or endangers health. Specific quiet hours are generally enforced between 11 PM and 7 AM for amplified sound and public yelling. Violations are reported to the Police Department, with appeals heard by an Administrative Hearing Officer.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | N/A | N/A |
Note: While Massachusetts state law (310 CMR 7.10) prohibits increasing ambient sound levels by more than 10 dB(A) at property lines, the City of Lynn's ordinance does not specify decibel limits, focusing on subjective criteria like 'excessive' or 'unnecessary' noise.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
The operation of pile drivers, steam shovels, pneumatic hammers, derricks, steam or electric hoists, or other loud appliances is restricted. Permission for such work between 6 PM and 7 AM may be granted upon application if loss or inconvenience would result.
- Amplified Sound:
Operating radios, musical instruments, phonographs, or other sound-producing devices in a manner that disturbs neighbors' peace and comfort, especially between 11 PM and 7 AM, is prohibited. Sound plainly audible from the source vehicle or building is considered prima facie evidence of a violation.
- Animals:
Keeping any animal or bird that causes frequent or long-continued noise disturbing the comfort or repose of persons in the vicinity is prohibited.
- Vehicles:
Unnecessary sounding of horns except as a danger warning, creation of unreasonably loud or harsh sounds, or sounding for an unreasonable period. Discharge of exhaust from engines or vehicles without an effective muffler is prohibited. Operating vehicles so out of repair, loaded, or in a manner that creates loud and unnecessary grating, grinding, or rattling noises is also prohibited.
- Public Conduct:
Yelling, shouting, hooting, whistling, or singing on public streets, particularly between 11 PM and 7 AM, or at any time or place that annoys or disturbs the quiet, comfort, or repose of persons in residences or offices, is prohibited.
- Commercial Activity:
Shouting and crying of peddlers, hawkers, and vendors that disturbs the peace and quiet of the neighborhood is prohibited. The use of drums or other devices for attracting attention by noise to any performance, show, or sale is also prohibited.
- Proximity to Sensitive Areas:
Creation of excessive noise on streets adjacent to schools, institutions of learning, churches, courts (while in use), or hospitals that interferes with their operation or disturbs patients, provided conspicuous signs are displayed.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lynn, MA Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Lynn, MA?
11 PM - 7 AM. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Lynn, MA?
Residential areas typically have a limit of established limits during the day and stricter limits at night. Excessive vibration or bass that is plainly audible at the property line may also be a violation.
Who do I contact to report a noise violation in Lynn, MA?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Lynn, MA police non-emergency line at (781) 595-2000. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at (781) 598-4000.