Industrial Noise: Kirkland vs Seattle
How do industrial noise rules compare between Kirkland, WA and Seattle, WA?
Kirkland and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Kirkland, WA
King County
Industrial sources in Kirkland cannot exceed 60 dBA at a residential property line under WAC 173-60, reduced 10 dBA at night. Totem Lake and NE 120th St are the primary industrial zones.
View full Kirkland 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 | Kirkland | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Day Limit | 60 dBA residential receiving | - |
| Night Limit | 50 dBA residential | - |
| Primary Zones | Totem Lake and NE 120th St | - |
| Code | WAC 173-60 via KMC 11.84A | KCC 12.86, WAC 173-60-040 |
| 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 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kirkland FAQ
How loud can a factory or distribution center be in Kirkland?
At a residential property line, industrial noise is capped at 60 dBA daytime and 50 dBA nighttime under WAC 173-60.
Are back-up beepers on trucks regulated?
Back-up alarms are federally required for worker safety and cannot be removed. Operators must minimize unnecessary backing during night hours.
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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