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🔊 Noise Ordinances/Construction Hours

Construction Hours: Federal Way vs Seattle

How do construction hours rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Seattle, WA?

Federal Way and Seattle have similar restriction levels.

Federal Way, WA

King County

Some Restrictions

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.

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Seattle, WA

King County

Some Restrictions

Under SMC 25.08, construction is permitted 7 AM–7 PM on weekdays and 9 AM–7 PM on weekends and legal holidays. Construction noise may not exceed 75 dBA. SDCI enforces; violations may result in stop-work orders.

View full Seattle rules →

Key Facts Comparison

FactFederal WaySeattle
Weekday Hours7 AM to 8 PM typical7 AM–7 PM
State Exemption Window7 AM to 10 PM-
Emergency WorkExempt 24/7-
CodeWAC 173-60.050SMC 25.08
Weekend/Holiday Hours-9 AM–7 PM
Max dBA-75 dBA
Enforcement-SDCI, (206) 615-0808; stop-work orders possible

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Federal Way FAQ

When can construction start in Federal Way?

Construction is typically exempt from noise limits 7 AM to 10 PM under WAC 173-60.050. Heavy work near homes usually wraps by 8 PM in practice.

Is Sunday construction allowed in Federal Way?

Sunday residential construction is discouraged and must meet the 55 dBA daytime limit at neighboring property lines. Commercial sites with permits may work under stricter scrutiny.

Seattle FAQ

What are the allowed construction hours in Seattle?

Under SMC 25.08, construction is permitted 7 AM–7 PM on weekdays and 9 AM–7 PM on weekends and legal holidays. Construction noise may not exceed 75 dBA. SDCI enforces; violations may result in stop-work orders.

Can construction work happen on weekends in Seattle?

Code: SMC 25.08. Weekday Hours: 7 AM–7 PM. Weekend/Holiday Hours: 9 AM–7 PM. Max dBA: 75 dBA.

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