Tacoma, WA Noise from Specific Sources: Bar & Nightclub Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Audibility limit
- Not audible beyond 100 feet
- Indoor increase cap
- 6 dB(A) or 6 dB(C)
- Applies to
- Commercial establishments & licensed venues
- First penalty
- $250 civil fine
- License risk
- Suspension after 2 penalties/year
Summary
Tacoma caps commercial establishment music at a 6 dB(A)/dB(C) rise indoors nearby and bars audibility beyond 100 feet from the property line, under TMC § 8.122.080.
No person shall make or cause or permit to be made or caused any music originating from or in connection with the operation of any commercial establishment or enterprise when the level of sound attributable to such music is plainly audible from a distance of at least 100 feet in any direction from the property line of the commercial establishment.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4946110; v22 updated 2026-07-28).
Full Breakdown
Tacoma limits noise from bars, restaurants and other licensed commercial establishments two ways under TMC § 8.122.080: music can't raise the sound level inside a nearby dwelling unit by 6 dB(A) or 6 dB(C) or more above ambient, and separately can't be plainly audible from 100 feet or more from the establishment's property line in any direction. Both standards apply whether the music comes from a DJ, live band or sound system. The Director enforces the chapter, can order sound testing, and issues civil penalties starting at $250 and rising to $2,000 within 12 months; a business's City permits and licenses can be suspended after two penalties.
Violations & Fines
Civil violation; Notice of Violation with fines from $250 (first) to $2,000 (fourth+) within 12 months; City permits/licenses tied to the business can be suspended after two penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far can bar or nightclub music carry in Tacoma?
Can a nightclub get a noise variance in Tacoma?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Tacoma
Compare Tacoma to another location·View the Washington noise from specific sources overview
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