Quiet Hours: Cambridge vs Waltham
How do quiet hours rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Waltham, MA?
Waltham has fewer restrictions than Cambridge.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Cambridge enforces nighttime quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM weekdays and 10 PM to 9 AM weekends under the Cambridge Noise Control Ordinance, Chapter 8.16 of the Municipal Code.
View full Cambridge rules →Waltham, MA
Middlesex County
Waltham enforces nighttime quiet hours under Chapter 10 of the Municipal Code, with stricter limits in residential zones near Brandeis and Bentley campuses.
View full Waltham rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| Weekday Quiet Hours | 10 PM to 7 AM | 10 PM to 7 AM |
| Weekend Quiet Hours | 10 PM to 9 AM | 10 PM to 8 AM |
| Code Chapter | Municipal Code Chapter 8.16 | - |
| State Authority | MGL c.40 s.21 | MGL c.40 s.21 |
| Reporting | Cambridge iReport / 311 | - |
| Enforcement | - | Waltham Police non-emergency |
| Max Fine | - | Up to 300 dollars |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
Are weekend quiet hours different in Cambridge?
Yes. Weekends and holidays extend morning quiet hours until 9 AM instead of 7 AM, giving residents two extra hours of protection.
Who enforces noise complaints in Cambridge?
Cambridge Police handle live disturbances; Inspectional Services handles construction and equipment noise. Both accept reports through iReport.
Waltham FAQ
Can I call police for a loud neighbor at 11 PM?
Yes, Waltham Police accept noise complaints during quiet hours via 781-314-3600.
Do quiet hours apply to college housing?
Yes, off-campus rentals near Brandeis and Bentley must comply with citywide quiet hours.
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