Tacoma's Noise from Specific Sources: The Rules That Matter
Every city handles noise from specific sources a little differently. In Tacoma, Washington, there are 3 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.
Low-Frequency Bass Limits
A stereo or speaker whose bass carries 50 feet past its own property line breaks Tacoma's noise code: even without a decibel reading, plainly audible rhythmic bass alone is enough to cite.
Key details: Trigger: plainly audible 50 feet away. Bass counts: rhythmic bass alone qualifies. Max penalty: $1,000 fine / 90 days jail. First-offense minimum: $500 fine, $250 not suspendable.
Violating § 8.12.060 is a misdemeanor: up to 90 days in jail or a $1,000 fine, with a mandatory $250 minimum on a first conviction and $300 on each repeat violation.
Generator Noise
Tacoma exempts portable and stand-by generators from its noise code entirely while running during a genuine power outage or natural disaster, under TMC § 8.122.140(O).
Key details: Generator noise: Exempt during power outages. Trigger: No utility power, disaster/outage. Exemption cite: TMC § 8.122.140(O). Non-outage use: Subject to general ambient limits.
Not applicable during a qualifying power outage: the activity is exempt from Chapter 8.122; outside an outage, standard noise-code civil penalties can apply.
Tacoma is more permissive than most cities when it comes to generator noise. That said, there are still limits.
Bar & Nightclub Noise
Tacoma caps commercial establishment music at a 6 dB(A)/dB(C) rise indoors nearby and bars audibility beyond 100 feet from the property line, under TMC § 8.122.080.
Key details: Audibility limit: Not audible beyond 100 feet. Indoor increase cap: 6 dB(A) or 6 dB(C). Applies to: Commercial establishments & licensed venues. First penalty: $250 civil fine. License risk: Suspension after 2 penalties/year.
Civil violation; Notice of Violation with fines from $250 (first) to $2,000 (fourth+) within 12 months; City permits/licenses tied to the business can be suspended after two penalties.
The Bottom Line
Tacoma'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 Tacoma is broadly strict or permissive.
All of the above reflects Tacoma'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.