The Resolution Path
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The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Salem, MA
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"Noise levels from operations, including speakers, shall not increase the broadband sound level by more than ten (10) dB(A) above ambient levels measured at the property line. In the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall and adjacent areas, specific amplified sound limits apply: 65 dB between 8 PM and 4 PM (Sun-Fri), and 8 PM to 11 AM (Fri-Sun); 68 dB between 4 PM and 8 PM (Mon-Fri) and 11 AM to 8 PM (weekends/holidays) in certain zones; and 78 dB or 79 dB during the same periods in other specific zones."
AI Executive Summary
Salem, MA's Noise Control Ordinance (Chapter 22) regulates sound, especially in the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall and adjacent areas, with decibel limits varying by time and location. General quiet hours are 11 PM to 7 AM, with specific restrictions on construction and amplified sound. Violations incur fines from $50 to $300, enforced by police, fire, or health officials.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Work is generally limited to 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, unless approved by the City Engineer. No noise-making activities are allowed before 7:00 AM. No work is permitted on Saturdays, Sundays, or legal holidays without prior approval.
Amplified Sound
Prohibited from exceeding 65 decibels between 8 PM and 4 PM (Sunday 8 PM through Friday 4 PM), and between 8 PM Friday to 11 AM Saturday, and 8 PM Saturday to 11 AM Sunday in the Essex Street Mall and adjacent areas. Specific zones in the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall have limits of 68, 72, 78, or 79 decibels during certain daytime and weekend hours. Use of loudspeakers/amplifiers is generally prohibited on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in October in specific areas, with an exception for October 31st from 4 PM to 10 PM.
Animals
The Animal Control Officer handles stray dogs, neighborhood nuisance problems, injured animals, and rabies concerns.
Vehicles
Unlawful to use compression, engine, dynamic, or mechanical exhaust brakes that create excessive, loud, or unusual noise, except in emergencies. Violation carries a $200 fine. In designated 'quiet zones,' sounding horns (except in emergencies) and making loud noise or playing music in vehicles are prohibited.
Dumpsters
Dumpsters shall not be filled or emptied between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., unless special circumstances are approved.
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