Noise Rules: Somerville vs Waltham
How do noise rules rules compare between Somerville, MA and Waltham, MA?
Waltham has fewer restrictions than Somerville.
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 →Waltham, MA
Middlesex County
Short-term rental guests in Waltham must comply with the city noise ordinance, with quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM and host responsibility for guest conduct violations.
View full Waltham rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Somerville | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 11pm to 7am typical | 10 PM to 7 AM |
| Responsibility | Operator liable for guest conduct | - |
| Enforcement | Somerville Police and ISD | Waltham Police |
| Consequence | Fines and possible permit loss | - |
| Contact | Somerville 311 or (617) 625-6600 | - |
| Host Contact | - | 24-hour response required |
| Posting | - | House rules mandatory |
| Nuisance Law | - | MGL c.139 applies |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Waltham FAQ
When are quiet hours in Waltham?
Quiet hours run from 10 PM to 7 AM across all residential zones, including short-term rentals.
Can my STR registration be revoked for noise?
Yes, repeated substantiated noise complaints can lead to revocation of operator registration.
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