Norfolk County, MA Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)
Amplified music rules in Norfolk County, 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
- County Rule?
- None: municipal jurisdiction
- State Authority
- MGL c. 140 §183A (one-day permits)
- Entertainment License
- MGL c. 140 §181-185
- Fallback
- MassDEP 310 CMR 7.10
- Bars/Clubs
- ABCC license conditions
Summary
Norfolk County does not regulate amplified music. Each municipality requires entertainment licenses or one-day amplified sound permits under MGL c. 140 §183A. ABCC-licensed venues must meet state license conditions.
Section 53: Penalty for certain offenses. Section 53. (a) Common night walkers, common street walkers, both male and female, persons who with offensive and disorderly acts or language accost or annoy another person, lewd, wanton and lascivious persons in speech or behavior, keepers of noisy and disorderly houses, and persons guilty of indecent exposure shall be punished by imprisonment in a jail or house of correction for not more than 6 months, or by a fine of not more than $200, or by both such fine and imprisonment. (b) Disorderly persons and disturbers of the peace shall, for a first offense, be punished by a fine of not more than $150. For a second or subsequent offense, disorderly persons and disturbers of the peace shall be punished by imprisonment in a jail or house of correction for not more than 6 months or by a fine of not more than $200 or by both such fine and imprisonment; provided, however, that an elementary or secondary school student shall not be adjudged a delinquent child for a violation of this subsection for such conduct within school buildings or on school grounds or in the course of school-related events.
Full Breakdown
Amplified music rules in Norfolk County are enforced by each municipality. Under MGL c. 140 §181-185, towns issue entertainment licenses; under §183A, one-day permits may be issued for public amplification. Residential amplified music is governed by local noise bylaws and the MassDEP 310 CMR 7.10 fallback (10 dBA above ambient at property line). Quincy requires a license from the Licensing Board; Brookline issues permits through the Town Clerk. ABCC-licensed bars and restaurants must comply with license conditions. Live outdoor events typically need a special event permit plus police detail.
Violations & Fines
No county enforcement. Municipal unpermitted amplification: $100-$500. MGL c. 272 §53 disturbing the peace charge possible. ABCC violations can suspend liquor license.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are typical penalties for violating amplified music rules?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Norfolk County
Compare Norfolk County to another location·View the Massachusetts noise ordinances overview
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