Everett, MA Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)

The Everett City Council, in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, wrote Section 13-7 as a measured standard. It is unlawful for any person in the city to disturb the peace by causing or allowing any unreasonable loud or excessive noise, including noise from a radio, phonograph or sound-reproducing device, a band or orchestra, any device used to amplify noise, or loud outcries, exclamations or loud singing. Unreasonable, loud or excessive noise is defined as noise measured in excess of 50 dBA between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. when measured not closer than the lot line. The ordinance defines dBA as the A-weighted sound level in decibels from a general-purpose sound level meter meeting ANSI S1.4-1971, properly calibrated and operated on the A weighting network.

Section 13-7(b) lets any person aggrieved by the disturbance complain to the police. In response to each complaint the police shall verify with the sound level meter that the noise exceeds the 50 dBA limit and, if so, can arrest or apply in the appropriate court for a criminal complaint under Chapter 272, Section 53, of the General Laws.

A second, non-metered rule sits in Section 13A-62(g)(14). Between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM, playing any radio, stereo, phonograph, musical instrument or other sound device so that the sound is plainly audible at the property line of the building, structure or apartment where it is located is a violation. Using such a device to cast sound on a public street, alley or highway for commercial advertising, or to attract the public to the business, is also prohibited, and the printed text sets no hour window for that advertising rule. Violations of Section 13A-62 are handled by citation or order under Chapter 13A.