Noise Rules: Burlington vs Waltham
How do noise rules rules compare between Burlington, MA and Waltham, MA?
Waltham has fewer restrictions than Burlington.
Burlington, MA
Middlesex County
Short-term rentals in Middlesex County must comply with local noise bylaws and the Massachusetts nighttime noise standard, with operators responsible for guest conduct under local STR registration rules.
View full Burlington rules →Waltham, MA
Middlesex County
Short-term rental guests in Waltham must comply with the city noise ordinance, with quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM and host responsibility for guest conduct violations.
View full Waltham rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burlington | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| Typical quiet hours | 10 PM to 7 AM weekdays | - |
| Weekend | 11 PM to 8 AM | - |
| Local contact | Required, 1-hour response | - |
| Fine range | 100 to 300 dollars | - |
| Registration risk | Revocation after 2-3 complaints | - |
| Quiet Hours | - | 10 PM to 7 AM |
| Enforcement | - | Waltham Police |
| Host Contact | - | 24-hour response required |
| Posting | - | House rules mandatory |
| Nuisance Law | - | MGL c.139 applies |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Burlington FAQ
Who is responsible for guest noise at an STR?
The STR operator is legally responsible for guest conduct. Most Middlesex municipalities require a 24/7 local contact who must respond to complaints within one hour.
Can my STR registration be revoked for noise?
Yes. Cities like Cambridge and Somerville can revoke STR registrations after 2 to 3 verified noise complaints within a 12-month period.
Waltham FAQ
When are quiet hours in Waltham?
Quiet hours run from 10 PM to 7 AM across all residential zones, including short-term rentals.
Can my STR registration be revoked for noise?
Yes, repeated substantiated noise complaints can lead to revocation of operator registration.
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