Clark County, WA Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)
Amplified music rules in Clark County, WA, also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances, set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Key Facts
- Governing code
- CCC 9.14.010(6)
- Street amps night ban
- 8:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.
- Residential cap
- 55 dBA day / 45 dBA night
- Near sensitive sites
- Limited within 1,000 ft
- Penalty
- $250 fine / 90 days jail
Summary
Outdoor music, live bands and PA systems fall under Clark County's public disturbance noise rule: loud or raucous amplified sound from a property that frequently or continuously disturbs neighbors is prohibited, and all sound must stay within WAC 173-60 limits.
The use of a sound amplifier or other device capable of producing or reproducing amplified sound upon public streets for the purpose of commercial advertising or sales or for attracting the attention of the public to any vehicle, structure, or property or the contents therein between the hours of 8:00 p.m. of one day and 7:00 a.m. of the next day, except for emergency vehicles.
Full Breakdown
Unincorporated Clark County has no separate outdoor-event ordinance in Chapter 9.14; outdoor music is governed by CCC 9.14.010(6), which bans loud/raucous amplified sound emanating frequently, repetitively or continuously from any property so as to disturb neighbors. Street-facing amplifiers for advertising or attracting attention are banned 8 p.m.-7 a.m. under subsection (4). Sound within 1,000 feet of schools, hospitals or nursing facilities is limited by subsection (5). WAC 173-60-040 caps levels (55 dBA at homes, 45 dBA nights). Large events may need a temporary-use permit.
Violations & Fines
Disturbing outdoor music is a misdemeanor under CCC 9.14.030: $250 fine and/or up to 90 days in jail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I host an outdoor party with live music?
Do quieter-hour limits apply outdoors?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Clark County
Compare Clark County to another location·View the Washington noise ordinances overview
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