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Grant County, WA Noise from Specific Sources: Generator Noise (2026)

Few Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Governing chapter
GCC 6.24, Noise
Generator exemption
§6.24.050(a)(26), all hours
Trigger
No utility power from outage or disaster
Enforcement
Grant County Sheriff's Office
First offense
$150 civil infraction
Second offense
Misdemeanor, up to 90 days/$1,000

Summary

In unincorporated Grant County, Grant County Code Chapter 6.24 makes it unlawful to create a public noise disturbance, but Section 6.24.050(a)(26) exempts sounds created by generators whenever there is no electrical service from the primary supplier because of a natural disaster or power outage. That exemption runs at all hours, with no decibel cap or curfew attached.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Grant County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

6.24.050 - Exemptions. (a)The following noises shall be exempt from the provisions of this chapter at all hours: ... (26)Sounds created by generators during periods when there is no electrical service available from the primary supplier due to natural disaster or power outage.

View official code

Full Breakdown

020). 050 then lists twenty-six categories of sound exempt at all hours, from aircraft and railroads to agricultural activity and lawful fireworks. Item (26) covers generators: sounds they create are exempt around the clock whenever the primary utility has no power available because of a natural disaster or outage. m. 040 if it unreasonably interferes with a neighbor's peace and comfort. 030, with cases proceeding through Grant County District Court. 060.

Violations & Fines

Each 24-hour period of a noise violation is a separate offense under GCC 6.24.070(a). A first offense is a civil infraction carrying a $150 penalty. A second violation is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in the Grant County Jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both. The generator exemption is a full defense only while the outage condition in 6.24.050(a)(26) actually exists.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I run a generator during a power outage in unincorporated Grant County?
Yes. Grant County Code 6.24.050(a)(26) exempts generator noise at all hours whenever the primary electric utility has no service available because of a natural disaster or power outage, so there is no curfew or decibel limit while the outage lasts.
Does the exemption cover routine generator testing with power still on?
No. The exemption in 6.24.050(a)(26) applies only during periods when there is no electrical service available. Once utility power is restored, generator noise is judged under the general disturbance ban in GCC 6.24.040 like any other residential sound.
Who enforces Grant County's noise ordinance?
The Grant County Sheriff's Office and other Washington State law enforcement agencies enforce Chapter 6.24 under GCC 6.24.030, and cases go through Grant County District Court.
What happens on a second noise complaint?
A first violation is a $150 civil infraction under GCC 6.24.070(b). A second violation becomes a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 90 days in the Grant County Jail, a $1,000 fine, or both.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Grant County

Animal Ordinances: Chickens & LivestockSome RestrictionsParking Rules: RV & Boat ParkingSome RestrictionsCar Alarm LimitsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSignificant RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Veterinary Clinic ZoningSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Pet LimitsSome Restrictions

All Grant County rules

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