Quiet Hours: Newton vs Somerville
How do quiet hours rules compare between Newton, MA and Somerville, MA?
Newton has fewer restrictions than Somerville.
Newton, MA
Middlesex County
Newton prohibits unreasonable noise audible beyond property lines during nighttime hours, typically 10 PM to 7 AM, under the citys noise control ordinance enforced by Newton Police and ISD.
View full Newton rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Somerville enforces nighttime quiet hours under its noise control ordinance, restricting loud sounds audible at property lines during late-night and early-morning periods across this densely populated Boston-metro city.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Newton | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Nighttime window | 10 PM to 7 AM residential | - |
| Authority | Ordinance Ch. 20 and MGL c.40 s.21 | - |
| Fines | Civil citations escalate with repeats | - |
| Reporting | Newton Police or 311 | - |
| Weekend | Extended quiet hours apply | - |
| Weeknight quiet hours | - | 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM |
| Weekend quiet hours | - | 11:00 PM to 9:00 AM |
| State authority | - | MGL c.40 s.21 |
| Report issues | - | Somerville 311 or (617) 625-6600 |
| Base fine | - | 100 dollars per violation |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Newton FAQ
Can I call police about a loud party at 11 PM?
Yes, Newton Police respond to nighttime noise complaints and can issue citations for violations of Chapter 20.
Are there decibel limits?
Newton uses a reasonableness standard at property lines rather than a strict decibel meter reading for most complaints.
Somerville FAQ
Who enforces quiet hours in Somerville?
Somerville Police Department responds to active nighttime noise complaints; Inspectional Services handles ongoing nuisance cases. Call 311 or the non-emergency line.
Are quiet hours different on weekends?
Yes. Morning quiet hours extend until 9:00 AM on Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays rather than the 7:00 AM weekday cutoff.
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