How Attleboro Handles Noise Ordinances: A Practical Guide

Attleboro maintains 40 local ordinances across all categories, and 3 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.

Warning first. Municipal fines $25 to $300. Selectman/mayor may order restraint. Court-ordered remediation possible.

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.

Construction Hours

Attleboro regulates construction noise under its general noise ordinance and zoning provisions. Any use that is significantly offensive or detrimental to surrounding properties by reason of excessive noise may be restricted. Standard construction hours follow typical Massachusetts municipal practice.

Key details: Zoning Standard: No excessive noise detrimental to surroundings. Building Permit: Required for all construction. State Standard: 310 CMR 7.10 applies. Enforcement: Building Inspector / Police.

Stop-work orders for violations. Fines $100 to $500 per occurrence. Repeat offenders may face permit issues.

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.