King County does not impose specific leaf blower restrictions beyond the general noise limits in KCC 12.86 and WAC 173-60. Residential yard maintenance is exempt during daytime hours (7 AM-10 PM weekdays).
King County Code Chapter 12.86 (Noise Control) adopts the Washington State Department of Ecology maximum environmental noise levels under WAC 173-60. For Class A EDNA (residential) receiving property, the limits are 55 dBA daytime (7 AM-10 PM) and 45 dBA nighttime (10 PM-7 AM). KCC 12.86.520 exempts sounds from temporary construction, maintenance, or repair of homes, grounds, and appurtenances during daytime hours, which includes routine yard care activities such as leaf blowing. Gas-powered leaf blowers are not specifically regulated at the county level, unlike in some California jurisdictions. Enforcement is complaint-based through Code Enforcement and relies on the plainly audible standard or dBA measurement if the activity occurs at night. Unincorporated King County residents should also check neighborhood covenants, as HOAs may impose stricter limits than county code.
Civil infraction under KCC 23.02. First violation typically issued as a warning; repeat violations carry fines up to 500 dollars per occurrence.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in King County.
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