Cambridge enforces numerical decibel limits: 60 dBA day and 50 dBA night at residential receptors, with a 5 dBA penalty for tonal or impulsive sounds.
Cambridge Chapter 8.16 establishes specific decibel thresholds that supplement the plain-language unreasonable noise standard. At any residential property line, sound levels may not exceed 60 dBA between 7 AM and 10 PM, or 50 dBA between 10 PM and 7 AM. When the noise contains pure tones, bass thumps, or repeated impulses (such as backup alarms or mechanical knocking), a 5 dBA penalty is added before comparison to the limit. Cambridge Inspectional Services uses calibrated Type 2 meters for enforcement. Some zoning districts such as Office 3 in Kendall Square permit slightly higher daytime levels at their own district boundaries, but residential receptors always receive the stricter standard. The city also measures low-frequency noise separately when complaints arise about subwoofers or industrial equipment vibration.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Middlesex County.
See how other cities in Middlesex County handle decibel limits.
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