Federal Way vs Kirkland
How do outdoor music rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Kirkland, WA?
Federal Way and Kirkland have similar restriction levels.
Federal Way, WA
King County
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.
View full Federal Way rules →Kirkland, WA
King County
Outdoor concerts and festivals in Kirkland require a special event permit through Parks. Residential outdoor music falls under KMC 11.84A and must stop disturbing neighbors after 10 PM.
View full Kirkland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Kirkland |
|---|---|---|
| Day Limit | 55 dBA residential | - |
| Night Limit | 45 dBA after 10 PM | - |
| Permit Required | Public property events | - |
| Permitting | Parks and Recreation | - |
| Event Permit | - | Parks and Community Services |
| Typical Cutoff | - | 10 PM amplified |
| Residential Standard | - | Audibility across line |
| Code | - | KMC 11.84A |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
Does my outdoor wedding need a Federal Way permit?
Events on public property or with significant amplified music require a special event permit from Parks and Recreation. Private residential backyard events under 55/45 dBA generally do not.
When must outdoor music stop in Federal Way?
Amplified music must meet 45 dBA at residential property lines after 10 PM. Permitted events commonly have amplification cutoffs of 10 PM weeknights and 11 PM weekends.
Kirkland FAQ
Do I need a permit for an outdoor concert in Kirkland?
Yes. Organized outdoor amplified events require a Special Event Permit with sound mitigation conditions and neighborhood notice.
Can I play music at my waterfront dock party?
Yes at reasonable volumes, but waterfront acoustics carry sound far. Music audible to neighbors or across the cove triggers KMC 11.84A.
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