Outdoor Music: Federal Way vs Seattle
How do outdoor music rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Seattle, WA?
Federal Way and Seattle 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 →Seattle, WA
King County
Outdoor music in unincorporated King County must meet KCC 12.86 and WAC 173-60 limits: 55 dBA day and 45 dBA night at residential property lines. Event variances available via special event permits.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Day Limit | 55 dBA residential | 55 dBA residential |
| Night Limit | 45 dBA after 10 PM | - |
| Permit Required | Public property events | - |
| Permitting | Parks and Recreation | - |
| Night Cutoff | - | 10 PM all events |
| Variance | - | Special event permit |
| Farm Venues | - | CUP conditions govern |
| Code | - | KCC 12.86, WAC 173-60 |
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.
Seattle FAQ
Can a winery host outdoor concerts in the evening?
Only if allowed by their conditional use permit. Most agricultural zone event venues have time-of-day and sound level conditions. Check permit records through King County DLS.
Do I need a permit for a backyard wedding with a live band?
Not typically for a private event under 150 guests, but sound must stay below 55 dBA at your property line and cease amplified music by 10 PM. Larger events may need a special event permit.
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