Worcester, MA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Worcester, MA?
| Regulation | Details for Worcester, MA |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 9PM-7AM |
| Weekends | See specific hours above |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 508-799-8606 |
9:00 PM - 7:00 AM (weekdays/Saturdays); 9:00 PM - 9:00 AM (Sundays/holidays for power tools)
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Worcester, MA Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Worcester, MA?
Worcester, MA's "An Ordinance Relative to Excessive and Unreasonable Noise, Chapter 9 § 1A" aims to reduce ambient noise to safe levels, prohibiting excessive and unnecessary sounds that threaten public health, welfare, and quality of life. It outlines restrictions on motor vehicles, sound reproduction devices, and power tools, with penalties for violations.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | Not specified | Not specified |
| Commercial | Not specified | Not specified |
Note: The ordinance emphasizes audibility at certain distances rather than specific decibel levels, though it mentions using an 'A' weighting network for sound measurements.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Operation of power saws, drills, grinders, lawn mowers, lawn or garden tools, or similar tools is prohibited between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. on weekdays and Saturday, and between 9:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m. on Sunday and legal holidays, if plainly audible 50 feet or more away.
- Amplified Sound:
No person shall operate any electronic sound reproduction device plainly audible in a public place at a distance of 25 feet or more from the device or premises. Within a motor vehicle, sound reproduction devices must not be plainly audible in a public place at a distance of 50 feet or more.
- Animals:
No person shall engage in persistent or repeated yelling, shouting, hooting, whistling, singing, or the making of other loud noises between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. if plainly audible 25 feet or more, or so as to annoy persons in residences or public places. This would generally apply to animal noises as well. Animal Control handles general animal complaints.
- Vehicles:
Operating a motor vehicle's sound reproduction device plainly audible 50 feet or more is prohibited. Using a horn or warning device plainly audible 125 feet or more is prohibited, except to avoid a collision. Operating a motorcycle with a removed or inoperative exhaust system, muffler, or other noise/emission equipment is also prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions about Worcester, MA Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Worcester, MA?
9:00 PM - 7:00 AM (weekdays/Saturdays); 9:00 PM - 9:00 AM (Sundays/holidays for power tools). Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Worcester, MA?
Residential areas typically have a limit of Not specified during the day and Not specified 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 Worcester, MA?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Worcester, MA police non-emergency line at 508-799-8606. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 508-799-1198.