How Fall River Handles Noise Ordinances: A Practical Guide

Fall River 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 Fall River falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Quiet Hours

Fall River prohibits all noises that menace health or interrupt sleep between 10 PM and 7 AM on weekdays and 10 PM to 8 AM on Sundays. The city's noise regulations are enforced by the Fall River Police Department under the general nuisance provisions of the Revised Ordinances.

Key details: Weekday Quiet Hours: 10 PM–7 AM. Sunday Quiet Hours: 10 PM–8 AM. Vehicle Noise: §70-9 prohibits excessive music devices. State Standard: 10 dBA above ambient (310 CMR 7.10). Enforcement: Fall River Police Department.

First offense warning or citation. Municipal fines $50 to $300. MGL c.272 §53: fine up to $200 or imprisonment.

Barking Dogs

Fall River addresses barking and nuisance dogs under MGL Ch. 140 §157. A dog that is a habitual barker or creates a nuisance may result in a citation with a $25 fine. The Animal Control Officer and Fall River PD enforce the provision.

Key details: State Law: MGL Ch. 140 §157. Fine: $25 per violation. Enforcement: Animal Control Officer / Fall River PD. Process: Complaint-based enforcement.

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

Construction Hours

Fall River regulates construction noise under its general noise ordinance provisions. Construction activities that create excessive noise are prohibited during quiet hours (10 PM to 7 AM weekdays, 10 PM to 8 AM Sundays). The city follows Massachusetts building code standards for construction site noise management.

Key details: Prohibited Hours: 10 PM–7 AM weekdays, 10 PM–8 AM Sundays. Permit Required: Building permit for all construction. State Standard: 310 CMR 7.10 noise regulation applies. Enforcement: Building Department / Fall River PD.

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

The Bottom Line

Fall River'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 Fall River is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Fall River'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.