Washington Statewide Rule

Washington Industrial Noise Source Limits Statewide

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Washington (2026)

Industrial sources in Washington must comply with EDNA limits set by WAC 173-60, with the receiving residential zone limited to 60 dBA daytime and 50 dBA nighttime.

Key Facts

Industrial to residential day: 60 dBA
Nighttime limit: 50 dBA
Tonal penalty: Minus 5 dBA
Statute: WAC 173-60-040

Source: Washington State Legislature

Full Breakdown

Under WAC 173-60-040, Class C (industrial) sources radiating to Class A (residential) receivers cannot exceed 60 dBA between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. or 50 dBA at night. Impulse, periodic, or pure-tone sounds reduce limits by 5 dBA. The statute and rule apply to factories, ports, and other industrial users statewide and are not waivable by local ordinance.

Violations & Penalties

Civil penalties up to $100 per day per violation under RCW 70.107.060, plus injunctive relief, variances, or abatement orders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an industrial facility get a variance?

Yes. WAC 173-60-050 and local authority allow variances for unique operational circumstances when granted in writing by the controlling jurisdiction.

Are these limits stricter than federal OSHA?

These are environmental property-line limits, not workplace exposure limits. OSHA addresses worker hearing protection inside the facility separately.

Sources

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Full Breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an industrial facility get a variance?

Yes. WAC 173-60-050 and local authority allow variances for unique operational circumstances when granted in writing by the controlling jurisdiction.

Are these limits stricter than federal OSHA?

These are environmental property-line limits, not workplace exposure limits. OSHA addresses worker hearing protection inside the facility separately.