Chelsea, MA Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Sec. 16-99(d)
- Fine range
- $100-$300
- Vehicle impoundment
- Until fines are paid
- Device seizure
- Held until court proceedings end
- Enforcing agency
- Chelsea Police Department
Summary
Chelsea bars operating a "loud amplification device" (a stereo, radio or similar equipment creating unreasonable noise) in or on a motor vehicle on any public or private way, or in a public place, under Sec. 16-99(d). Violators can face fines plus vehicle impoundment until fines are paid.
(d)Prohibition against loud amplification devices in motor vehicles. It shall be unlawful for any person to operate a loud amplification device, as defined in subsection (a) of this section, in or on a motor vehicle on a public or private way, or in a public place.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 26).
Full Breakdown
Sec. " The referenced definition, in Sec. 16-99(a), covers a radio, television, phonograph, stereo, record player, tape player, cassette player, compact disc player, loudspeaker, sound amplifier "or similar device which is operated in such a manner that it creates an unreasonable noise," so an ordinary car stereo only violates the section once its volume rises to the level of unreasonable noise as separately defined. Enforcement carries real teeth beyond a citation: Sec. c. 272, and the department may tow and impound a violator's vehicle under Sec. " This subsection is distinct from Sec. 16-99(e)-(f), which separately bar the same devices in public ways generally and on residential premises.
Violations & Fines
A first violation draws a written warning under Sec. 16-99(l); a subsequent violation carries a criminal fine of not less than $100 and not more than $300. Beyond the fine, the vehicle itself can be towed and impounded under Sec. 16-99(m)(3) until any levied fines are paid, and a seized amplification device is not returned until any related court proceeding is finally completed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Chelsea police impound my car for a loud stereo?
Does the vehicle noise rule apply on private property?
What happens to a seized stereo or speaker?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chelsea
Compare Chelsea to another location·View the Massachusetts noise ordinances overview
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Vehicle Noise in Nearby Cities
How other cities in this county handle vehicle noise.