Noise Rules: Lowell vs Somerville
How do noise rules rules compare between Lowell, MA and Somerville, MA?
Lowell and Somerville have similar restriction levels.
Lowell, MA
Middlesex County
Lowell STR guests must comply with the city noise ordinance prohibiting unreasonable noise at all times and plainly audible noise during overnight quiet hours.
View full Lowell rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Somerville STR operators are responsible for guest noise under the noise ordinance, with quiet hours 11pm to 7am and escalating fines that can lead to permit revocation.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lowell | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Quiet hours | 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM | - |
| Code chapter | Lowell Code Ch. 245 | - |
| Responsible party | Property owner/operator | - |
| Complaint line | Lowell Police non-emergency | - |
| Quiet Hours | - | 11pm to 7am typical |
| Responsibility | - | Operator liable for guest conduct |
| Enforcement | - | Somerville Police and ISD |
| Consequence | - | Fines and possible permit loss |
| Contact | - | Somerville 311 or (617) 625-6600 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lowell FAQ
Am I liable if my Airbnb guests are loud?
Yes. As the operator you receive noise citations and fines for guest conduct.
What are Lowell quiet hours?
Lowell observes quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM under Chapter 245.
Somerville FAQ
Can I use audio recording devices to monitor STR guests?
No. Massachusetts is a two-party consent state under MGL c.272 s.99. Use only decibel-level monitors that do not record conversations.
What happens after multiple noise complaints?
Somerville can fine the operator, revoke the STR registration, and place the property on a nuisance list requiring additional compliance measures.
Compare other topics
See how Lowell and Somerville compare on other ordinance categories.
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