Yakima County, WA Noise Ordinances: Construction Hours (2026)
Construction hours in Yakima County, WA, sometimes called construction noise rules or contractor work-hour ordinances, set when contractors can run power tools, hammers, and heavy equipment.
Key Facts
- County Ordinance
- No fixed construction hours
- Daytime
- Exempt under WAC 173-60
- Nighttime
- No exemption 10 p.m.-7 a.m.
- Authority
- County Code Ch. 6.28
Summary
Washington exempts daytime construction noise from state limits, but that exemption disappears at night. In unincorporated Yakima County, construction sound loses its WAC 173-60 exemption in residential (Class A) areas between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.
Sounds originating from temporary construction sites as a result of construction activity.
Full Breakdown
Yakima County has no separate construction-hours ordinance; it follows WAC 173-60, adopted through County Code Chapter 6.28. Temporary construction sites are exempt from the maximum environmental noise limits during the day, but that exemption does not apply in Class A residential areas between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m., effectively restricting loud nighttime construction. Equipment should have working mufflers. Incorporated cities may set stricter posted hours, and emergency utility or safety work is treated separately.
Violations & Fines
Nighttime construction exceeding residential limits is enforceable under WAC 173-60 and county nuisance provisions. Typically a warning first, then civil penalties for continued violations.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can construction make noise?
Does the county set specific construction hours?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Yakima County
How Yakima County compares: Cities with the Strictest Construction Hours·Compare Yakima County to another location·View the Washington noise ordinances overview
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