Noise Ordinance Waiver or Film Permit

Request

The Noise Control Ordinance of the City of Newton, Chapter 20-13, seeks to prevent excessive noise, and specifies parameters around how and when certain types of noise may occur, for example noise produced by construction or demolition activities, yard work, commercial deliveries, electronic equipment or music.

Click here to read the City of Newton Noise Ordinance, Chapter 20 – 13.

If you or your affiliates need to do work or to host an event in Newton that is not compliant with the City of Newton Noise Ordinance, the Noise Ordinance allows you to request an exemption, otherwise known as a waiver.

Noise Ordinance - Work
Generally, when a Noise Ordinance Waiver is requested, we prefer to consider requests to start work on Saturday at 8:00 a.m., Sunday at 9:00 a.m., and holidays at 8:00 a.m. or 9:00 a.m. depending on the day of the week. 
If you are requesting to start at 7:00 a.m., please explain in detail.

Noise Ordinance - Event
We like outdoor parties to end by 10:00PM.
Please notify relevant neighbors 72 hours in advance with on-site contact name and phone number of individual who may be reached during the event.
If you are asking for an exception, please explain in detail.

Use this link to complete the request online:

Noise Ordinance Waiver

Film Permit

A Film Permit is required for an individual or group requesting to film a photo or video production/project on City property. City property may include sidewalks, streets, parks or buildings. 

Film/Photo Shoot Request
Please notify relevant neighbors 72 hours in advance with on-site contact name and phone number of individual who may be reached during the filming and/or photo shoot. 

Once you complete an application, it will go to the Police, Fire, Public Works, Parks, Recreation and Culture, Public Buildings, and Inspectional Services Departments for their review, before finally being reviewed by the Mayor’s office. This process generally takes one to two business days.

Use this link to complete the request online:

Film Ordinance Waiver

After a waiver is granted you will be notified immediately, often with some conditions included, and the waiver will be filed with the Clerk’s Office at City Hall.

Questions about this process?

Email Sam Nighman at snighman@newtonma.gov or

Amalia Timbers at atimbers@newtonma.gov.