King County, WA Public Conduct: Loud Party Ordinance (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- K.C.C. 12.86.410
- Liable party
- Person in possession of property
- First-offense fine
- Up to $125
- Audible threshold
- Plainly audible 50+ feet away
- Applies only in
- Unincorporated King County
Summary
Unincorporated King County treats a loud house party as a public disturbance noise violation, and the person in possession of the property, not just whoever is making the racket, is liable.
It is unlawful for any person to cause, or for any person in possession of property to allow to originate from the property, sound that is a public disturbance noise... Sounds that are public disturbance noises may include...5. Loud and raucous sound that emanates frequently, repetitively or continuously from any building, structure or property...located within a rural or residential district...such as sounds originating from a band session or social gathering;
Full Breakdown
K.C.C. 12.86.410 makes it unlawful to cause, or as a property possessor to allow, "public disturbance noise." The list of covered sounds specifically names band sessions and social gatherings in rural or residential districts, plus amplified music plainly audible 50+ feet away. The Sheriff's Office and the Department of Local Services enforce it under K.C.C. 12.86.700. This is unincorporated county land only. Seattle, Bellevue, Kent, Renton, and the other 27-plus cities in King County run their own noise codes.
Violations & Fines
Civil infraction: up to $125 for a first violation in 12 months, up to $250 for a second, and up to double the prior fine for each later violation; a third violation can be referred to the prosecutor for an injunction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this cover a party in Seattle or Bellevue?
Can I be cited even if I didn't personally make the noise?
What counts as a violation at a party?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in King County
Compare King County to another location·View the Washington public conduct overview
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