Does Whatcom County, WA have its own noise rules ordinance?

No. Whatcom County, WA does not appear to have a local noise rules ordinance, Washington state law applies instead. The rules summarized on this page come from Revised Code of Washington.

Key Facts Ordinance Text Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources More in Whatcom County

Whatcom County, WA Short-Term Rentals: Noise Rules (2026)

Some Restrictions

Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Same Rules: No guest exemption
Night Limit: Drops 10 dBA after 10 PM
Bellingham Host: Responsible for guests
Repeat Complaints: Risk to permit

Summary

STR guests must meet the same noise limits as residents: WAC 173-60 and, in Bellingham, the public disturbance code. Repeated verified complaints can jeopardize a Bellingham permit.

City-specific rules exist: Bellingham has its own noise rules rules that differ from Whatcom County's county-level regulations. If you live in Bellingham, check the city-specific page instead.

Between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. the noise limitations of the foregoing table shall be reduced by 10 dBA for receiving property within Class A EDNAs.

Source: Revised Code of WashingtonView official code

Full Breakdown

Short-term rental guests get no special allowance. In unincorporated Whatcom County, noise must stay within WAC 173-60 property-line limits, which drop 10 dBA between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. In Bellingham, guest noise falls under the public disturbance code, where audio audible beyond 50 feet is a violation. Bellingham's STR framework makes the host responsible for guest conduct, and a pattern of verified noise complaints can factor into permit review or renewal. Many hosts post house rules and quiet hours and keep a local contact who can respond quickly.

Violations & Fines

Noise citations mirror the general rules: a warning, then a civil infraction up to $250, escalating in Bellingham to a misdemeanor. Chronic STR complaints can threaten permit renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are STR guests held to stricter noise rules?

Not stricter, but the same limits apply and Bellingham holds the host responsible. Repeated complaints can affect permit renewal.

Can noise complaints cost me my STR permit?

In Bellingham, over time yes. A documented pattern of verified disturbances can be weighed in permit review or renewal.

Sources & Official References

[1]Revised Code of Washington

Other rules in Whatcom County

Fence Regulations: Height LimitsSome Restrictions Short-Term Rental PermitsSome Restrictions Insurance RequirementsSome Restrictions Host Presence RuleSome Restrictions Short-Term Rental Parking RulesSome Restrictions Noise Ordinances: Decibel LimitsSome Restrictions Noise Ordinances: Barking DogsSome Restrictions Parking Rules: Loading ZonesSome Restrictions Parking Rules: Driveway RulesSome Restrictions Parking Rules: EV ChargingLight Restrictions

All Whatcom County rules

Compare Whatcom County to another location·View the Washington short-term rentals overview

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Noise Rules in Cities Across Whatcom County

Bellingham, WA