How Attleboro Handles Noise Ordinances: A Practical Guide
Attleboro maintains 17 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with noise ordinances. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Attleboro falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.
Barking Dogs
Attleboro addresses nuisance dogs under its animal control ordinance and state law MGL Ch. 140. Dogs that habitually bark or cause disturbances may result in enforcement action. Animal Control (27A Pond Street North) handles complaints.
Key details: Standard: Habitual barking subject to enforcement. State Law: MGL Ch. 140 §157 (nuisance dogs). Enforcement: Animal Control / Police. Contact: Animal Control: 27A Pond Street North.
Quiet Hours
Attleboro adopted a noise ordinance giving police the ability to issue citations and fines for excessive noise. Noise plainly audible at 200 feet may trigger enforcement. The MassDEP 310 CMR 7.10 regulation also applies, prohibiting sound exceeding ambient levels by more than 10 dBA at the property line.
Key details: Audibility Standard: Plainly audible at 200 feet. State Standard: 10 dBA above ambient (310 CMR 7.10). Enforcement: Attleboro Police Department. Contact: 508-222-1212 (non-emergency).
First offense warning or citation. Municipal fines $50 to $300. MGL c.272 §53: fine up to $200 or imprisonment.
The Bottom Line
Attleboro's noise ordinances rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Attleboro is broadly strict or permissive.
All of the above reflects Attleboro's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.