How Revere Handles Noise Ordinances: A Practical Guide

Revere maintains 33 local ordinances across all categories, and 4 of those deal specifically with noise ordinances. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Revere falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Aircraft Noise

Revere is adjacent to Boston Logan International Airport (directly across the harbor). Aircraft noise is governed by FAA regulations and Massport; the city has no local authority over flight paths. Massport has noise abatement programs and a complaint hotline.

Key details: Airport: Boston Logan — directly adjacent. Authority: FAA / Massport (no local control). Complaints: Massport Noise Complaint Line. Local Rule: None — federal preemption.

Massport enforces noise abatement rules on airlines. Eligible homes receive free sound insulation. Noise complaints tracked through the 24-hour hotline.

Construction Hours

Revere's noise ordinance prohibits construction before 7 AM (9 AM on Saturdays and holidays) and after 6 PM. No construction on Sundays. Confirmed by Revere Building Department FAQ.

Key details: Weekdays: 7 AM – 6 PM. Saturdays/Holidays: 9 AM – 6 PM. Sundays: No construction permitted. Authority: Revere Building Dept / Code Title 9.

Violations reported to Revere Building Department or Police. Permit may be revoked for repeated violations.

Barking Dogs

Barking dogs addressed under Revere Code Title 6 (Animals) and general nuisance provisions. Excessive barking complaints handled by Revere Animal Control. Dogs must be licensed annually under MGL c. 140 §137.

Key details: Code: Revere Code Title 6 / MGL c. 140. Enforcement: Revere Animal Control. Dog License: Annual required (MGL c. 140 §137). Nuisance Standard: Excessive barking = civil violation.

Nuisance animal violations carry fines under local ordinance. Dangerous dog determinations under MGL c. 140 Section 157 may require confinement or restrictions.

Quiet Hours

Revere enforces noise complaints under Title 9 (Public Peace, Safety & Welfare) of its Code of Ordinances. No published single decibel limit; enforcement uses MassDEP 310 CMR 7.10 standard (ambient +10 dB at property line). Residential disturbances enforced by Revere Police.

Key details: Quiet Hours: 11 PM – 7 AM (typical enforcement). Standard: MassDEP 310 CMR 7.10 (+10 dB ambient). Code: Revere Code Title 9. Enforcement: Revere Police Dept.

Noise violations enforced through local ordinance fines and state MassDEP policy. Complaints filed through Revere Police Department.

The Bottom Line

Revere'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 Revere is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Revere can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.