Outdoor events and festivals in Kent must meet KCC 8.05 dBA limits at neighboring homes. Temporary noise variances are available through the Kent Noise Control Office for large events.
Kent hosts Cornucopia Days, Kent Summer Concert Series at Lake Meridian, and Kent International Festival. These events operate under noise control variances or event permits issued by the City of Kent. KCC 8.05.110 grants the noise control office authority to approve a variance where strict application of KCC 8.05.090 would cause practical difficulties or unnecessary hardships. Applicants must submit the variance on forms provided by the noise control office, identify the time, date, and location of the event, and show how noise impacts on surrounding residences will be mitigated. Outside permitted events, outdoor amplified sound at breweries, taphouses, and private venues must comply with the 57 dBA day and 47 dBA night limit at any adjacent residential property (commercial source into residential EDNA). Kent Parks-organized events in downtown Town Square Plaza and Lake Meridian Park typically wrap up by 10 PM to respect residential quiet hours.
Unpermitted outdoor amplified music above the dBA limits is a civil infraction. Permitted events that exceed variance conditions can have the variance revoked for future events.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Kent, WA
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Kent, WA
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Kent, WA
Kent driveway aprons require Public Works approval under KCC Title 6. New or widened driveways need a right-of-way construction permit, and vehicles must not...
Kent, WA
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Kent, WA
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Kent, WA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in King County.
See how other cities in King County handle outdoor music.
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