The Resolution Path
1. Local Ordinance
2. Document Evidence
3. Resolve Dispute
The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Worcester, MA
Noise Ordinance Overview
You’ve located the ordinance. Now, compare your situation against the legal thresholds to build your case.
Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"The ordinance emphasizes audibility at certain distances rather than specific decibel levels, though it mentions using an 'A' weighting network for sound measurements."
AI Executive Summary
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.
Specific Noise 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.
Ready to Document?
Unlock evidence tools for Worcester, MA