Quiet hours in Bristol County, MA — also called the noise ordinance, nighttime noise rules, or residential quiet time — define the hours during which excessive noise is prohibited.
Bristol County unincorporated areas follow Massachusetts state noise regulations under 310 CMR 7.10, which prohibits sound exceeding ambient levels by more than 10 dBA at the property line. Individual towns within the county may adopt their own noise ordinances. The Board of Health in each town has authority under MGL Ch. 111 §31C to regulate noise.
Bristol County local bylaw or ordinance establishes quiet hours and noise limits for residential areas. Massachusetts General Laws c.272 §53 provides baseline enforcement statewide for disturbing the peace. MassDEP Noise Policy (310 CMR 7.10) provides guidance but no numeric residential standards. Municipalities set their own limits, typically 55 to 65 dBA. MA typically has later quiet hours (11 PM) compared to other states. Local police handle residential noise complaints.
First offense warning or citation. Municipal fines $50 to $300. MGL c.272 §53: fine up to $200 or imprisonment.
Bristol County, MA
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See how Bristol County's quiet hours rules stack up against other locations.
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