Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup

Noise Ordinances in Spokane, WA (2026)

8 verified noise ordinances for Spokane, Washington, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Quiet Hours

Spokane Municipal Code Chapter 10.08 sets quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM in residential zones. RCW 70A.20 and WAC 173-60 set background state limits of 55 dBA day / 45 dBA night for residential receiving properties.

Noise: Quiet Hours

Some Restrictions

Construction Hours

Spokane permits construction noise generally 7 AM to 10 PM on weekdays and weekends in residential zones. WAC 173-60 exempts temporary construction activity from EDNA limits during daytime hours.

Noise: Construction Hours

Some Restrictions

Barking Dogs

Spokane treats chronic barking as a public nuisance under SMC 10.08 and SMC 10.04 (animal control). SpokAnimal, under contract with the city, handles enforcement with warnings escalating to fines.

Noise: Barking Dogs

Some Restrictions

Leaf Blower Rules

Spokane has no gas leaf blower ban. Operation is limited to general noise hours (typically 7 AM to 10 PM) under SMC 10.08. Unlike some Western WA cities, Spokane has not adopted equipment-specific restrictions.

Noise: Leaf Blowers

Few Restrictions

Amplified Music & Events

Spokane prohibits amplified sound that disturbs neighbors under SMC 10.08A, the public disturbance noise provisions. Outdoor events over 100 attendees typically require a special event permit with sound limits.

Noise: Amplified Music

Some Restrictions

Aircraft Noise

Aircraft noise from Spokane International Airport (GEG) and Felts Field is preempted by federal FAA rules. Spokane International has a voluntary noise abatement program with preferred runway use and departure procedures.

Noise: Aircraft Noise

Few Restrictions

Industrial Noise

Commercial noise in Spokane must comply with WAC 173-60 EDNA limits based on the receiving property class. Commercial-to-residential sound cannot exceed 60 dBA day or 50 dBA night at the residential property line.

Noise: Commercial Noise

Some Restrictions

Vehicle Noise

Spokane enforces vehicle noise under SMC 16A.61 (traffic) and state RCW 46.37.390 muffler requirements. Modified exhausts, engine braking, and loud stereos in vehicles are common citations.

Noise: Vehicle Noise

Some Restrictions

Looking for Spokane County county-wide rules?

County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Spokane city rules.

Noise Ordinances in Spokane County