Federal Way's Noise from Specific Sources: The Rules That Matter
Every city handles noise from specific sources a little differently. In Federal Way, Washington, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.
Car Alarm Limits
FWRC 7.10.020(1) bans the frequent, repetitive, or continuous sounding of any motor vehicle horn or siren as a public disturbance noise, except as a genuine warning of danger or when specifically required by law. It is enforced citywide as a civil infraction.
Key details: Governing section: FWRC 7.10.020(1). Prohibited conduct: Frequent/repetitive/continuous horn or siren. Exception: Genuine danger warning or legal requirement. First-offense fine: $100.00 civil infraction. Enforcement: Code enforcement officers and police.
A vehicle horn or siren sounded frequently, repetitively, or continuously, other than as a genuine danger warning or as legally required, is a civil infraction under FWRC 1.15.110: $100.00 for a first violation, $200.00 for a second violation of the same nature, and $300.00 for a third or subsequent violation, plus fees and costs.
Low-Frequency Bass Limits
FWRC 7.10.020(5) and (6) bar vehicle audio systems and portable audio equipment played loud enough to be heard beyond 50 feet from the vehicle or source, with portable equipment also restricted to the operator's own property. Both are enforced as public disturbance noise civil infractions.
Key details: Governing sections: FWRC 7.10.020(5) and (6). Distance threshold: Audible beyond 50 feet. Vehicle systems: Any volume audible past 50 feet violates. Portable equipment: Also barred off the operator's own property. First-offense fine: $100.00 civil infraction.
A vehicle or portable audio system audible more than 50 feet away, or a portable unit operated off the owner's own property, is a civil infraction under FWRC 1.15.110: $100.00 for a first violation, $200.00 for a second violation of the same nature, and $300.00 for a third or subsequent violation, plus fees and costs.
The Bottom Line
Federal Way's noise from specific sources rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Federal Way is broadly strict or permissive.
All of the above reflects Federal Way's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.