Brockton, MA Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)
Amplified music rules in Brockton, MA, also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances, set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Key Facts
- Regulated equipment
- Stationary amplifiers, loudspeakers
- Requirement
- City permit for public events
- Without permit
- Subject to general 50 dBA cap
- Fine, repeat violation
- $300 within 12 months
- Adopted
- Ord. No. M03, Feb. 9, 2021
Summary
Brockton's noise ordinance treats stationary amplifiers and loudspeakers used for public address at public events as exempt from the general noise ban only with a city permit. Section 14-50(g)(2)(e) singles out sound equipment at gatherings like football games, meaning organizers must get city sign-off before amplifying sound outdoors.
(2)The following sources of noise are exempt, upon permission by the city after a determination the conduct of the activities is necessary or in the best interest of the city for a limited period of time:...e.Public events. The use of stationary amplifiers and/or loud speakers in the course of the public address for public events and/or public gatherings, with applicable permits. Also, noise emanating from such public events as football games and other public happenings.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 28).
Full Breakdown
Section 14-50 of the Revised Ordinances makes it unlawful citywide to generate any loud, unnecessary or unusual noise that disturbs the comfort, repose or safety of residents, and subsection (g) lists which noise sources escape that ban. Subsection (g)(1) exempts certain sources completely and at all times, such as officially sanctioned parades and sporting events. Stationary amplifiers and loudspeakers do not get that automatic pass. ' Item (g)(2)(e) names 'the use of stationary amplifiers and/or loud speakers in the course of the public address for public events and/or public gatherings, with applicable permits,' and adds that noise from public events such as football games and other public happenings falls under the same permitted category. weekend quiet hours. The ordinance was adopted by Ord. No. M03 on February 9, 2021, replacing the city's earlier noise regulations.
Violations & Fines
Unpermitted amplified sound that crosses into a public disturbance is enforced the same as any other noise complaint: police issue a written civil infraction warning for a first offense, then a three-hundred-dollar fine for any later violation within a twelve-month period, following the procedure in subsection (h) and M.G.L. c. 40, § 21D.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to use a PA system at a Brockton event?
Are football games and festivals automatically allowed to use amplified sound?
What happens if amplified sound runs without a permit and neighbors complain?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Brockton
Compare Brockton to another location·View the Massachusetts noise ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.