Quiet Hours: Somerset vs Taunton
How do quiet hours rules compare between Somerset, MA and Taunton, MA?
Somerset and Taunton have similar restriction levels.
Somerset, MA
Bristol County
Bristol County unincorporated areas follow Massachusetts state noise regulations under 310 CMR 7.10, which prohibits sound exceeding ambient levels by more than 10 dBA at the property line. Individual towns within the county may adopt their own noise ordinances. The Board of Health in each town has authority under MGL Ch. 111 §31C to regulate noise.
View full Somerset rules →Taunton, MA
Bristol County
Taunton adopted a comprehensive noise ordinance (Chapter 315) on November 2, 2021, prohibiting preventable and unnecessary noise. Noise that annoys or disturbs the quiet, comfort, or repose of normal persons is prohibited at any time or place. Animals or birds plainly audible at 50 feet from the lot line are also prohibited.
View full Taunton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Somerset | Taunton |
|---|---|---|
| State Standard | 10 dBA above ambient (310 CMR 7.10) | - |
| Authority | Town Boards of Health (MGL Ch. 111 §31C) | - |
| County Role | No county-level noise ordinance | - |
| Enforcement | Local police and Board of Health | - |
| Code | - | Chapter 315 (adopted 11-2-2021) |
| Animal Noise | - | Prohibited if audible 50 ft from lot line |
| Fine (1st) | - | Up to $100 |
| Fine (3rd+) | - | $300 + no auto license renewal |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Somerset FAQ
What are the quiet hours in Bristol County?
Bristol County unincorporated areas follow Massachusetts state noise regulations under 310 CMR 7.10, which prohibits sound exceeding ambient levels by more than 10 dBA at the property line. Individual towns within the county may adopt their own noise ordinances. The Board of Health in each town...
What happens if I violate the noise ordinance in Bristol County?
State Standard: 10 dBA above ambient (310 CMR 7.10). Authority: Town Boards of Health (MGL Ch. 111 §31C). County Role: No county-level noise ordinance. Enforcement: Local police and Board of Health.
Taunton FAQ
What are the quiet hours in Taunton?
Taunton adopted a comprehensive noise ordinance (Chapter 315) on November 2, 2021, prohibiting preventable and unnecessary noise. Noise that annoys or disturbs the quiet, comfort, or repose of normal persons is prohibited at any time or place. Animals or birds plainly audible at 50 feet from the...
What happens if I violate the noise ordinance in Taunton?
Code: Chapter 315 (adopted 11-2-2021). Animal Noise: Prohibited if audible 50 ft from lot line. Fine (1st): Up to $100. Fine (3rd+): $300 + no auto license renewal.
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