Massachusetts Statewide Rule

Massachusetts DEP Industrial Noise Pollution Regulation

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Massachusetts (2026)

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.

Key Facts

Regulation: 310 CMR 7.10
Threshold: 10 dBA above ambient
Authority: MassDEP statewide
Max Penalty: $25,000 per day

Source: Massachusetts General Court

Full Breakdown

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.

Violations & Penalties

Civil penalties up to $25,000 per day per violation under MGL c. 111, Section 142A; cease and desist orders; equipment shutdown.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the MassDEP noise rule apply to all businesses?

Yes, 310 CMR 7.10 applies statewide to all stationary commercial and industrial sources, regardless of whether the local municipality has its own noise ordinance.

How is ambient sound measured under DEP Policy 90-001?

Ambient is the L90 level measured at the property line or nearest inhabited residence with the source off; the source must not exceed ambient by more than 10 dBA.

Can a city set stricter industrial noise rules?

Cities may add stricter rules but cannot override the DEP minimum standard, which applies as a statewide floor for all industrial sources.

Sources

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Full Breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the MassDEP noise rule apply to all businesses?

Yes, 310 CMR 7.10 applies statewide to all stationary commercial and industrial sources, regardless of whether the local municipality has its own noise ordinance.

How is ambient sound measured under DEP Policy 90-001?

Ambient is the L90 level measured at the property line or nearest inhabited residence with the source off; the source must not exceed ambient by more than 10 dBA.

Can a city set stricter industrial noise rules?

Cities may add stricter rules but cannot override the DEP minimum standard, which applies as a statewide floor for all industrial sources.