The Resolution Path
1. Local Ordinance
2. Document Evidence
3. Resolve Dispute
The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Kent, WA
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"Decibel limits are measured at the receiving property boundary. Nighttime limits (10 PM - 7 AM) for Class A (residential) receiving properties are reduced by 10 dBA. Temporary exceedances are allowed: 5 dBA for 15 min/hour, 10 dBA for 5 min/hour, or 15 dBA for 1.5 min/hour."
AI Executive Summary
Kent, WA noise ordinances, primarily found in Chapter 8.05 of the City Code, establish maximum permissible environmental noise levels based on land use (residential, commercial, industrial). These decibel limits are reduced by 10 dBA for residential receiving properties between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Various exemptions apply, including temporary residential maintenance and emergency work. Violations can result in civil penalties and abatement actions.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Sound from temporary projects for residential home, ground, and appurtenance maintenance or repair is generally exempt between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.. King County guidelines, which Kent may follow for general construction, suggest: Heavy equipment (7 AM - 7 PM weekdays, 9 AM - 7 PM weekends); Impact equipment (8 AM - 5 PM weekdays, 9 AM - 5 PM weekends); All other construction (7 AM - 10 PM weekdays, 9 AM - 8 PM weekends).
Amplified Sound
Playing radios, stereos, musical instruments, or other electronic sound-producing devices at any volume that annoys or disturbs the quiet, comfort, or repose of persons is unlawful. In the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area, outdoor amplified sound is permitted from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, and 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. Friday-Saturday.
Animals
Roosters are not specifically regulated but are considered a violation if their crowing disturbs neighbors. Wild or exotic animals are prohibited.
Vehicles
The sounding of horns or signal devices is restricted to danger signals; creating unreasonably loud or harsh sounds or sounding for an unnecessary period is unlawful. King County defers to state law (WAC 173-62-030) for vehicle decibel limits on public highways. Mufflers cannot be removed or made inoperative. Non-emergency squealing of tires is unlawful.
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