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πŸ”Š Noise Ordinances/Amplified Music & Events

Amplified Music & Events: Somerville vs Waltham

How do amplified music & events rules compare between Somerville, MA and Waltham, MA?

Somerville and Waltham have similar restriction levels.

Somerville, MA

Middlesex County

Some Restrictions

Somerville restricts amplified music through its noise ordinance and entertainment licensing, with plainly-audible standards at property lines and stricter controls on licensed venues near residential districts.

View full Somerville rules β†’

Waltham, MA

Middlesex County

Some Restrictions

Amplified music in Waltham requires a permit for outdoor events and must comply with general noise limits, especially on Moody Street entertainment district.

View full Waltham rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactSomervilleWaltham
Residential standardPlainly audible at property line-
Quiet hours11 PM to 7 AM weekdays-
Venue cutoffSet by entertainment license-
Outdoor eventsRequire special permit-
Fines from100 to 300 dollars-
Cutoff Time-10 PM residential
Permit Needed-Outdoor commercial events
Licensing Body-Waltham License Commission
Vehicle Rule-50-foot audibility
Starting Fine-100 dollars

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Somerville FAQ

Can I have a backyard party with speakers?

Yes during daytime and evening hours, but amplified sound should not be plainly audible beyond your property line after 11:00 PM.

How are bars regulated for live music?

Through entertainment licenses issued by the Licensing Commission, which set end times and sound conditions reviewed annually.

Waltham FAQ

Do I need a permit for a backyard band?

Not for a small private gathering, but must end by 10 PM and stay at reasonable volume.

Can Moody Street bars have outdoor music?

Yes, with an entertainment license, ending by posted hours.

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