What consent is required for Cold Calling in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts follows federal TCPA consent rules. ATDS or prerecorded calls to cell phones require prior express written consent.

What are the calling hour restrictions in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts restricts telemarketing calls to 08:00:00–21:00:00 local time.

What is the penalty per violation in Massachusetts?

Up to $5,000 per violation (or $25,000 for willful violations). Private right of action available.

Is registration required to telemarket in Massachusetts?

Yes — Massachusetts requires telemarketer registration before placing calls.

Home / States / Massachusetts

Massachusetts Telecom Compliance Guide

Telecom Compliance Reference — Updated January 2020

Private Right of Action

Calling Hours

8:00 AM–9:00 PM

Min Penalty

$5,000

Registration

Required

Overview Calling Hours Consent Registration DNC Compliance DNC Registry Enforcement Case Law Legislation

Massachusetts Cold Calling Compliance

Voice call compliance rules for outbound telemarketing in Massachusetts

Consent Requirements

Consent LevelPrior Express

Checkbox ConsentValid

StatuteM.G.L. c. 159C; 201 CMR 14.00

Manual cold calling to non-DNC numbers is permitted with standard caller identification requirements. Must scrub against Massachusetts DNC and federal NDNC. Caller must identify name, company, and purpose immediately. Violation of DNC rules could trigger c. 93A liability with treble damages. Massachusetts DNC list must be checked quarterly at minimum.

Full consent requirements for all channels →

Calling Rules

Calling Hours8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

RegistrationRequired

Penalty / Violation$5,000

Willful Violation$25,000

Private Right of ActionYES

Cold Calling Compliance Checklist

01Verify calling hours in recipient's local timezone

02Scrub against National DNC Registry (every 31 days minimum)

03Scrub against state DNC list if applicable

04Maintain internal opt-out/DNC list

05Identify yourself and your company at start of call

06Provide contact information on request

07Honor opt-out requests immediately

08Ensure consent if using ATDS or prerecorded messages

09Register as telemarketer if state requires

10Document all consent and opt-out records

This checklist covers common requirements. State-specific rules may vary. Confirm with legal counsel for high-volume campaigns.

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This is a compliance reference tool, not legal advice. Data compiled from public statutes, LegiScan, CourtListener, state AG offices, and AI-assisted analysis. Verify all information with qualified counsel before relying on it. Full terms & data sources →