Bellevue, WA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Bellevue, WA?
| Regulation | Details for Bellevue, WA |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 425-577-5656 |
10 PM to 7 AM
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Bellevue, WA Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Bellevue, WA?
Bellevue, WA's noise ordinance, found in City Code Title 9.18, aims to mitigate excessive noise to protect public health, welfare, and peace. It sets maximum permissible environmental noise levels in residential areas at 55 dBA during the day and 45 dBA at night. Construction noise, amplified sound, and other disturbances have specific regulated hours and conditions.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 55 dBA (7 AM - 10 PM) | 45 dBA (10 PM - 7 AM) |
| Commercial | Not explicitly specified, general maximum permissible environmental noise levels apply. | Not explicitly specified, general maximum permissible environmental noise levels apply. Amplified sound maximum received levels range from 55-60 dBA in residential and commercial districts, with a 10 dBA reduction between 10 PM and 7 AM for Class A EDNAs. |
Note: Indoor noise limits are 45 dBA for sleeping areas and 45 dBA for other living areas. Properties with ambient sound over 65 dBA at the property line require sound attenuation to meet indoor limits.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Construction noise is permitted Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Construction noise is prohibited on Sundays and legal holidays unless authorized by a city-approved permit for specific reasons such as transportation mitigation or emergency work. Construction from single-family additions and remodels is exempt until 8 p.m.
- Amplified Sound:
A permit is required for amplified sound audible across a property boundary or at least 75 feet from the source. Permitted hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Amplified sound cannot exceed maximum permissible levels, is restricted in quiet zones, and is not allowed at the same location for more than four days per calendar week. It cannot be plainly audible in schools during school hours or hospitals at any time.
- Animals:
Keeping any animal or bird that makes frequent or long, continuous noise is considered a public disturbance. 'Illegal type and/ or number of animals on the property' is a land-use violation addressed by Code Compliance.
- Vehicles:
Sounding a horn or signal device unnecessarily or for an unreasonable duration, or using a gong/siren on non-emergency vehicles, is prohibited. Operating any audio equipment in a vehicle that is plainly audible at 10 feet from the vehicle or 25 feet from the source if not in a vehicle, or that disturbs quiet between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m., is a violation.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bellevue, WA Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Bellevue, WA?
10 PM to 7 AM. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Bellevue, WA?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 55 dBA (7 AM - 10 PM) during the day and 45 dBA (10 PM - 7 AM) at night. Excessive vibration or bass that is plainly audible at the property line may also be a violation.
Who do I contact to report a noise violation in Bellevue, WA?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Bellevue, WA police non-emergency line at 425-577-5656. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 425-452-2047.