Amplified music rules in Bellevue, WA — also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances — set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Bellevue prohibits amplified music clearly audible 75 feet from the source or across a property line at any time under BCC 9.18.040. Party, patio, and car stereo noise is enforced.
BCC 9.18.040 lists noise disturbances prohibited at all hours regardless of measured decibel level. These include sound from audio systems, musical instruments, public address systems, and the human voice that is clearly audible across a property boundary or at least 75 feet from the source. This applies to residential parties, backyard concerts, outdoor patio speakers, and car stereos. At night (10 PM to 7 AM), residential sound must also remain under the 45 dBA EDNA limit established by WAC 173-60. Indoor sleeping area intrusion may not exceed 45 dBA at any hour. Hosts of private events may apply for temporary variance through the Bellevue City Clerk if needed. Penalties apply to both the property owner and the person generating the noise. Reported via the MyBellevue app or Bellevue Police non-emergency at (425) 577-5656.
Noise disturbance citation under BCC 9.18.040. Continued violations: escalating fines and possible criminal disturbance charges. Party hosts responsible for guests' conduct.
Bellevue, WA
Bellevue enforces RCW 46.55 and BCC 11.23 against vehicles left on streets more than 72 hours or stored inoperable on private property, with impoundment and ...
Bellevue, WA
Bellevue prohibits barbed wire, razor wire, and electrified fencing in residential zones; chain link is allowed but discouraged in front yards by design guid...
Bellevue, WA
RCW 16.60 governs boundary fences and cost-sharing in Washington. LUC 20.20.400 controls height and placement. Spite fences allow civil remedy. Get a survey ...
Bellevue, WA
Pools over 24 inches deep need a 48-inch barrier with self-closing self-latching gates under the Washington State Building Code and IRC Appendix G. Openings ...
Bellevue, WA
Bellevue Land Use Code LUC 20.20.075 limits residential fences to 6 feet in rear and side yards and 42 inches in front yards; fences over 6 feet need a build...
Bellevue, WA
Feeding wildlife that creates a nuisance is prohibited. RCW 77.15.790 makes feeding bears, cougars, or wolves a gross misdemeanor. Bird feeders are allowed i...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in King County.
See how other cities in King County handle amplified music & events.
See how Bellevue's amplified music & events rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.