Lynnwood, WA Noise from Specific Sources: Generator Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- General ban
- LMC 10.12.300(A) noise disturbance
- Engine-specific rule
- LMC 10.12.300(B)(2)
- Residential daytime cap
- 55 dBA, Class A to Class A
- Nighttime reduction
- 10 dBA lower, 10 p.m.-7 a.m.
- Enforcing agency
- Development and business services dept.
Summary
Lynnwood, Washington's general noise-disturbance ban in LMC 10.12.300(A) covers any noise disturbance citywide, and (B)(2) specifically bars stationary or moving engines and devices so out of repair or overloaded that they create loud, unnecessary grating, squealing, grinding or rattling noise, which reaches a poorly maintained generator.
A. General Prohibitions. It shall be unlawful for any person to make, continue, or cause to be made or continued any noise disturbance. ... 2. The use of any automobile, truck, motorcycle, transit vehicle, or other vehicle, or engine, either stationary or moving, or any instrument, device or thing so out of repair, so loaded, or in such manner as to create loud and unnecessary grating, squealing, grinding, rattling or other noise;
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 3512, passed May 26, 2026).
Full Breakdown
300 catches them two ways. 100 as sound that annoys, disturbs, or injures the comfort, repose, health, hearing, peace or safety of a reasonable person with normal sensitivities. Subsection (B)(2) is more specific: it bars using any vehicle, or engine, stationary or moving, or any instrument, device or thing so out of repair, so loaded, or operated in such a manner as to create loud and unnecessary grating, squealing, grinding, rattling or other noise, language broad enough to cover a portable or standby generator running roughly enough to disturb neighbors. m. 700(A). 800.
Violations & Fines
Running a generator or other stationary engine loudly enough to create a noise disturbance, or so out of repair it produces excessive grating, grinding or rattling noise, violates LMC 10.12.300(A) and (B)(2) and is a misdemeanor under LMC 10.12.800, enforced by the development and business services department under LMC 10.12.700(B).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a Lynnwood ordinance specifically about generators?
What decibel limit applies to a generator running near my Lynnwood property line?
Who handles a complaint about a neighbor's loud generator in Lynnwood?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lynnwood
Compare Lynnwood to another location·View the Washington noise from specific sources overview
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Generator Noise in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Snohomish County handle generator noise.