Cambridge, MA Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)
Amplified music rules in Cambridge, 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
- Audibility threshold
- Plainly audible at 50 feet
- Governing section
- Municipal Code § 8.16.080.B
- City-operated equipment
- Exempt from this section
- Fine per violation
- $300 per day
Summary
Playing a radio, phonograph, loudspeaker or public address system in Cambridge is a noise violation if it's plainly audible 50 feet from the building, vehicle or dwelling unit where it's operating, under Municipal Code § 8.16.080.B, regardless of any decibel reading.
B.Radios, Phonographs, Etc. The using, operating, or permitting to be played, used or operated any radio receiving set, musical instrument, phonograph, loudspeaker or public address systems, unless used by the City of Cambridge, or other machine or device for the producing or reproducing of sound in such a manner as to be plainly audible at a distance of fifty (50) feet from the building, structure, vehicle or dwelling unit in which it is located.
Full Breakdown
B makes it a non-measured noise disturbance to use or permit the use of 'any radio receiving set, musical instrument, phonograph, loudspeaker or public address systems, unless used by the City of Cambridge, or other machine or device for the producing or reproducing of sound' so that it is plainly audible at 50 feet from the source structure or vehicle. The '50 feet plainly audible' test applies at any time of day; it does not carry a separate curfew like the domestic-power-tool or construction provisions in the same section.
080 preamble), and non-commercial public speaking or assembly on public space or right-of-way is also exempt. H, applies the same 50-foot plainly-audible test to amplified sound inside a place of public entertainment. K even if it doesn't carry 50 feet.
Violations & Fines
Each violation of Section 8.16.080.B can draw a citation with a $300 fine for each day the amplified sound continues, issued under G.L. c. 40 § 21D, or a misdemeanor prosecution carrying a $300 fine on conviction under Section 8.16.040(C). Enforcement officials may also seek a court injunction to abate the equipment and may suspend or, after a hearing, revoke any license or permit tied to the source, such as an entertainment license.
Frequently Asked Questions
How loud can a stereo be before it violates Cambridge's noise ordinance?
Is there a curfew for playing music outdoors in Cambridge?
Does the amplified-sound rule apply to bars and clubs too?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Cambridge
Compare Cambridge to another location·View the Massachusetts noise ordinances overview
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Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound in Nearby Cities
How other cities in this county handle amplified music & outdoor sound.