Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup

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

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified April 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.

City-specific rules exist: Quincy has its own amplified music & outdoor sound rules that differ from Norfolk County's county-level regulations. If you live in Quincy, check the city-specific page instead.

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?
Most Norfolk County noise violations start with a written warning followed by escalating civil fines for repeat offenses. Specific dollar amounts and any criminal-misdemeanor exposure depend on the section of code; consult Norfolk County's municipal code or staff for the current penalty schedule.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Norfolk County

All Norfolk County rules

Compare Norfolk County to another location·View the Massachusetts noise ordinances overview

Get notified when Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound in Norfolk County, MA changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.

Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound in Cities Across Norfolk County