Noise Ordinances in Federal Way, WA (2026)
9 verified noise ordinances for Federal Way, Washington, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Quiet Hours
Federal Way noise ordinance quiet hours are 10 PM–7 AM under FWRC Title 7.10 (adopts WAC 173-60). Residential receiving limit drops from 55 dBA daytime to 45 dBA nighttime. Construction noise prohibited 8 PM–7 AM weekdays and 8 PM–9 AM weekends (FWRC 7.10.020). Complaints: (253) 835-6701.
Federal Way Noise Ordinance: Quiet Hours 10 PM–7 AM
Some RestrictionsConstruction Hours
Federal Way permits construction under WAC 173-60.050 exemptions between 7 AM and 10 PM. Sunday work near homes is typically restricted. Work outside the window must meet 55/45 dBA limits.
Federal Way Construction Noise Hours
Some RestrictionsBarking Dogs
Federal Way prohibits dogs that bark or howl continuously and disturb neighbors under FWRC Title 9. Typical threshold is 20 minutes of continuous noise. Complaints go to King County Regional Animal Services.
Federal Way Barking Dog Ordinance
Some RestrictionsLeaf Blower Rules
Federal Way has no dedicated leaf blower ordinance. Residential yard equipment is exempt 7 AM to 10 PM under WAC 173-60.050. Outside those hours blowers must meet 55/45 dBA at property lines.
Federal Way Leaf Blower Rules
Few RestrictionsAmplified Music & Events
Federal Way limits amplified music under FWRC Title 7 and WAC 173-60. Receiving limits at residential property lines are 55 dBA day and 45 dBA night. Outdoor venue events require special event permits.
Federal Way Amplified Music Rules
Some RestrictionsAircraft Noise
Federal Way lies under Sea-Tac flight paths. Aircraft noise is preempted by federal FAA law and the Sea-Tac Part 150 program. Local rules cannot regulate flights; Port of Seattle runs mitigation programs.
Federal Way Aircraft Noise and Sea-Tac Flight Path
Few RestrictionsIndustrial Noise
Industrial sources in Federal Way must meet WAC 173-60: 70 dBA at industrial receivers, 65 at commercial, and 60 day / 50 night at residential. Code Compliance enforces in areas along I-5 and 348th Street.
Federal Way Industrial Noise Limits
Heavy RestrictionsDecibel Limits
Federal Way applies the WAC 173-60 EDNA table. Residential receivers: 55 dBA day / 45 dBA night. Commercial: 60/55. Industrial: 70/65. Limits are measured at the receiving property line, not the source.
Federal Way Decibel Limits by Zone
Some RestrictionsOutdoor Music
Outdoor music events in Federal Way need a special event permit on public property or when amplified beyond neighborhood levels. Receiving limits at residences are 55 dBA day and 45 dBA night.
Federal Way Outdoor Music and Event Noise
Some RestrictionsLooking for King County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Federal Way city rules.
Noise Ordinances in King County →