Amplified music rules in King County, WA — also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances — set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Amplified music in unincorporated King County must comply with KCC 12.86 noise limits and WAC 173-60 standards. Sounds exceeding 55 dBA during daytime or 45 dBA at night at the residential property line are prohibited.
King County Code Chapter 12.86 governs amplified sound through adoption of WAC 173-60 maximum environmental noise levels. For Class A (residential) receiving property, amplified music is limited to 55 dBA from 7 AM to 10 PM and 45 dBA from 10 PM to 7 AM, measured at the boundary of the receiving property. Brief excursions above these limits are allowed: 5 dB over for 15 minutes per hour, 10 dB over for 5 minutes per hour, and 15 dB over for 1.5 minutes per hour, all within daytime only. Nighttime has no excursion allowance. KCC 12.86.540 prohibits any sound that unreasonably disturbs residents regardless of dBA level. Temporary amplified outdoor events (weddings, gatherings) may obtain a noise variance from the King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks. Bars and restaurants with outdoor speakers must meet the same limits or obtain a variance.
Class 1 civil infraction under KCC 23.02, fine up to 500 dollars per violation. Each day of continued violation is a separate offense. Habitual violators may face nuisance abatement.
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See how King County's amplified music & events rules stack up against other locations.
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