Aircraft noise is regulated federally (FAA) and by the State. Tacoma is near Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport; local ordinances do not override federal aviation authority.
Tacoma's aircraft noise regulations address the impact of airport operations on nearby residential neighborhoods. Properties within designated airport noise contours (typically 65 DNL and above) are subject to special zoning overlay districts that restrict new residential construction and require sound insulation for existing homes. The city participates in FAA Part 150 noise compatibility programs, which fund voluntary soundproofing improvements for eligible homes. Building codes in noise-affected zones require Sound Transmission Class (STC) ratings of 35 or higher for exterior walls and windows. Real estate disclosures are mandatory for properties within airport influence areas. Washington's Pacific Northwest includes several commercial airports that generate local noise policy.
New construction without required sound insulation in airport zones carries stop-work orders and fines of $500–$2,000. Failure to provide real estate noise disclosure results in liability for rescission of sale.
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma allows residential lawn ornaments and yard art without permits provided they do not exceed the 15-foot accessory-structure height limit in TMC 13.06 a...
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma does not regulate residential inflatable holiday decorations by size or type. The Noise Code (TMC 8.122) applies to continuously running blower motors...
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma has no ordinance restricting when residents may put up or take down holiday lights. The general Noise Ordinance at TMC 8.122 applies to any amplified ...
Tacoma, WA
Built-in outdoor kitchens in Tacoma require building permits from Planning and Development Services (PDS) when they include new electrical, plumbing, gas pip...
Tacoma, WA
Backyard wood and pellet smokers in Tacoma single-family yards are permitted but subject to Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) Regulation I, Section 9.11, ...
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma adopts the International Fire Code through TMC Title 3 (Fire Prevention) as Tacoma Fire Code. IFC Section 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in this county.
See how other cities in this county handle aircraft noise.
See how Tacoma's aircraft noise rules stack up against other locations.
Quick Compare
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.