Industrial Noise: Federal Way vs Seattle
How do industrial noise rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Seattle, WA?
Seattle has fewer restrictions than Federal Way.
Federal Way, WA
King County
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.
View full Federal Way rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Industrial noise in unincorporated King County follows WAC 173-60 EDNA classes adopted via KCC 12.86. Class C industrial to Class A residential limits are 60 dBA day and 50 dBA night at the boundary.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Industrial to Industrial | 70 dBA | - |
| Industrial to Commercial | 65 dBA | - |
| Industrial to Residential Day | 60 dBA | - |
| Industrial to Residential Night | 50 dBA | - |
| C to A Day | - | 60 dBA max |
| C to A Night | - | 50 dBA max |
| B to A Day | - | 57 dBA max |
| Measurement | - | Receiving property line |
| Code | - | KCC 12.86, WAC 173-60-040 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
What industrial noise is allowed near homes in Federal Way?
Industrial sources received at residential property lines must stay under 60 dBA from 7 AM to 10 PM and 50 dBA from 10 PM to 7 AM under WAC 173-60.
How do I report warehouse noise in Federal Way?
Daytime complaints go to Federal Way Code Compliance at (253) 835-7000. Nighttime complaints go to Police non-emergency at (253) 835-6701.
Seattle FAQ
Where is industrial zoning located in King County?
Major industrial districts include the Duwamish corridor, Kent Valley, Tukwila, and SeaTac airport-area industrial zones. Check King County iMap for zoning classifications.
How do I file an industrial noise complaint?
Contact King County Code Enforcement at 206-296-6680 or use eCitations online. For air quality plus noise, contact Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA).
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