Quiet hours in Seattle, WA β also called the noise ordinance, nighttime noise rules, or residential quiet time β define the hours during which excessive noise is prohibited.
Seattle Municipal Code Chapter 25.08 prohibits excessive noise. Nighttime quiet hours are 10 PMβ7 AM weekdays and 10 PMβ9 AM on weekends and legal holidays. Nighttime noise limits are reduced 10 dBA from daytime levels in residential districts.
SMC 25.08 sets dBA limits that vary by zone. In residential zones, daytime limits apply 7 AMβ10 PM weekdays and 9 AMβ10 PM weekends; nighttime limits (reduced 10 dBA) apply during quiet hours. Violations are $150β$1,000 for first offense, doubling for subsequent violations. During Seattle quiet hours, noise audible beyond the property line that disturbs a reasonable person is subject to citation. Enforcement balances subjective-disturbance standards with decibel-based thresholds. Report violations to Find It Fix It / CSR at (206) 684-2489 or the police non-emergency line. Document the times, duration, and nature of the noise.
1st violation: $150β$1,000. Subsequent violations: doubled fines.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in King County.
See how other cities in King County handle quiet hours.
See how Seattle's quiet hours rules stack up against other locations.
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