Washington Statewide Rule

Washington Amplified Sound Limits Under State Noise Code

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Washington (2026)

Amplified music in Washington is regulated under the statewide Maximum Environmental Noise Levels, which set decibel caps at the property line based on receiving zone and time of day.

Key Facts

Residential to residential: 55 dBA day
Nighttime reduction: Minus 10 dBA
Authority: WAC 173-60-040
Measurement: At receiving property line

Source: Washington State Legislature

Full Breakdown

Although cities customize local rules, RCW 70.107 and WAC 173-60 set baseline limits enforceable everywhere. Amplified sound from a residential property to another residence may not exceed 55 dBA daytime or 45 dBA from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. Sound from commercial to residential drops to 57 dBA day and 47 dBA night. Public address systems and outdoor speakers are subject to these caps absent a permitted event exemption.

Violations & Penalties

Civil penalties up to $100 per day under RCW 70.107.060, plus criminal disturbance charges under local ordinances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are concerts and festivals exempt from these limits?

Permitted events may receive a temporary variance under WAC 173-60-050 or local permit. Without a permit, amplified event sound must comply with EDNA limits.

Where is sound measured for compliance?

Measurements are taken at the receiving property line, not at the source. The receiving zone's classification determines the applicable decibel limit.

Sources

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.

Full Breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

Are concerts and festivals exempt from these limits?

Permitted events may receive a temporary variance under WAC 173-60-050 or local permit. Without a permit, amplified event sound must comply with EDNA limits.

Where is sound measured for compliance?

Measurements are taken at the receiving property line, not at the source. The receiving zone's classification determines the applicable decibel limit.