Quiet hours in Brookline, MA — also called the noise ordinance, nighttime noise rules, or residential quiet time — define the hours during which excessive noise is prohibited.
Brookline regulates noise under General By-Laws Article 8.15 (Noise Control). The bylaw prohibits Noise Pollution, defined as sound exceeding the Background Noise Level. Nighttime fixed-equipment operation must not exceed daytime background levels minus 10 dBA.
Under Article 8.15, a condition of 'Noise Pollution' exists when a noise source exceeds the Background Noise Level at 50 feet from the source. For tonal sounds, an increase of 5 dBA above Background Noise Level suffices to trigger a violation. Nighttime (after-hours) fixed equipment noise must not exceed the average daytime Background Noise minus 10 dBA. Each day of violation is a separate offense. Fines unpaid after 30 days accrue interest at the statutory rate. Police, Health, and Building Departments all have enforcement authority.
Each day of continuing violation is a separate offense. Unpaid fines accrue interest after 30 days. The record owner may be notified when an occupant (not the owner) is in violation.
Brookline, MA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Norfolk County.
See how other cities in Norfolk County handle quiet hours.
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