Massachusetts regulates industrial and commercial noise statewide through the Department of Environmental Protection under the Air Pollution Control regulations, prohibiting noise that creates a condition of air pollution.
Under 310 CMR 7.10, MassDEP defines unreasonable noise as sound exceeding ambient levels by more than 10 dBA at the property line or any inhabited residence, or producing a pure tone condition. This applies to all stationary sources statewide including factories, HVAC equipment, generators, and commercial operations. DEP Policy 90-001 establishes measurement methodology. Enforcement is shared between DEP and local boards of health.
Civil penalties up to $25,000 per day per violation under MGL c. 111, Section 142A; cease and desist orders; equipment shutdown.
See how Swampscott's industrial noise rules stack up against other locations.
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