Lewis County, WA Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)

Section 1.23.030(1)(d), inside Chapter 1.23's public disturbance noise rules (Ord. 1311, 2019), targets amplified and group sound at its source rather than by decibel level. It prohibits the creation of frequent, repetitive or continuous sounds which emanate from any building, structure, apartment or condominium, such as sounds from audio sound systems, band sessions or social gatherings that can be heard from the public roadway, and it applies only between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. The rule sits under the general test in § 1.23.030(1) that the sound must unreasonably disturb or interfere with the peace, comfort and repose of other property owners or possessors, so an audio system or live band audible from the road during the curfew window that disturbs a neighbor's repose qualifies, regardless of how loud a meter would measure it; § 1.23.040(2) confirms a sound-level meter reading is not required to prove the case.

Section 1.23.030(2)(e) carves out sound from activities approved through a county special use permit, a music festival permit issued under Chapter 5.15 LCC, or a wireless communication permit under Chapter 15.50 LCC, meaning a permitted outdoor concert or festival is not automatically a violation even if it runs loud and late. Enforcement falls to the sheriff's office, commissioned officers, and code enforcement under § 1.23.040(3).