Pierce County, WA Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Primary regulator
- State of Washington
- Deferral clause
- PCC 8.72.120.D
- Industrial-source cap
- 60-70 dBA (Class C)
- Established-operation exemption
- PCC 8.76.070.B
- State rule
- WAC 173-60
Summary
For most industrial noise, Pierce County defers to the State. PCC 8.72.120.D states that, apart from motor vehicles, industrial-area noise is regulated by the State of Washington. The Chapter 8.76 EDNA table still caps industrial (Class C) source noise at 60-70 dBA at the receiver, with exemptions for established operations.
With the exception of motor vehicle noise, noise created by industrial areas is to be regulated by the State of Washington.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 2026-515, and legislation passed through May 26, 2026).
Full Breakdown
PCC 8.72.120.D provides that 'with the exception of motor vehicle noise, noise created by industrial areas is to be regulated by the State of Washington,' reflecting WAC 173-60. Where the county does apply limits, PCC 8.76.060 sets EDNA caps: a Class C (industrial) source may reach 60 dBA into Class A (residential) property, 65 dBA into Class B, and 70 dBA into Class C. PCC 8.76.070.B exempts noise from electrical substations and existing utility water/wastewater equipment, plus existing industrial installations that over the prior three years consistently ran more than 15 hours per day as a process necessity (hour changes need Noise Control Officer approval). The Washington Department of Ecology administers the state standard.
Violations & Fines
Industrial-noise complaints are handled through the state framework (Washington Department of Ecology) and, in the unincorporated county, the Noise Control Officer under Chapter 8.76. That officer may require operators to keep noise-emission records and take measurements (PCC 8.76.040).
Frequently Asked Questions
Who regulates factory or industrial noise in Pierce County?
Are there local decibel caps on industry?
Are long-standing plants exempt?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Pierce County
Compare Pierce County to another location·View the Washington noise ordinances overview
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