Chicopee, MA Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Chicopee regulates vehicle noise in two places. The engine brake rule is § 260-37.1 in the Vehicles and Traffic chapter, added 2-16-2016 by Ord. No. 16-2 and amended most recently 12-2-2025 by Ord. No. 25-61. It prohibits the use of engine brakes along the entire length of Westover Road, McKinstry Avenue, Grattan Street, Carew Street and Burnett Road. It also covers Griffith Road from the intersection of Griffith Road and James Street to the end of Griffith Road, and James Street from the intersection of Prospect Street, heading west to the Syrek Street line. The only exception printed is for emergency.

The Noise chapter adds general vehicle rules. Section 200-3(B) lists noisy vehicles: use of an automobile, motorcycle or other vehicle so out of repair or so loaded as to create repeated or continuous loud, unnecessary grating, grinding, rattling or other noise, and, added 5-4-2021 by Ord. No. 21-21, the excessive or otherwise unnecessary revving of a motorcycle, automobile or other motorized vehicle or equipment. Section 200-3(C) requires exhaust to be discharged through a muffler or other device which will effectively prevent loud or explosive noises. Section 200-3(A) prohibits repeated or continuous horn sounding on a stationary vehicle.

Vehicle stereos are covered by § 200-4, which applies to audio, stereo, cassette player, radio or similar equipment in a parked or moving motor vehicle. An unreasonably loud noise is one greater than 50 decibels between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. and 70 decibels at other times, measured at the property line where the noise originates, or any sound discernible at a distance of 100 feet.