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

Chapter 182 bans loud amplification devices in three settings, each its own section. § 182-9 makes it "unlawful for any person in any area to operate a loud amplification device or similar equipment, as defined in § 182-4B, in or on a motor vehicle, which is either moving or standing in a public way." § 182-10 extends the same ban to "a public way or in any other public place except as permitted by § 182-1," the City's noisemaking-permit section administered by the Chief of Police. § 182-11 goes furthest, making it unlawful to operate such a device "in a dwelling house or on the land or other premises of such dwelling house" at all, whether or not it disturbs a neighbor. § 182-4B defines a covered device as a radio, television, phonograph, stereo or loudspeaker "operated in such a manner that it creates unreasonable or excessive noise." A licensed band, performer or sound permit holder under §§ 182-1 or 182-3 is exempt from the disturbing-the-peace provisions of § 182-8 while performing under that license.

If a police officer arrests someone under the General Laws for disturbing the peace, § 182-16 lets the officer seize the amplification device or equipment "as evidence," inventory it through the Police Department, and hold it until the criminal case concludes, with a receipt given to the owner.