Kent, WA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Kent, WA?
| Regulation | Details for Kent, WA |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 253-852-2121 |
10:00 PM - 7:00 AM (for residential receiving properties, decibel limits are reduced by 10 dBA)
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Kent, WA Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Kent, WA?
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.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 55 dBA (residential source), 57 dBA (commercial source), 60 dBA (industrial source) | 45 dBA (residential source), 47 dBA (commercial source), 50 dBA (industrial source) |
| Commercial | 57 dBA (residential source), 60 dBA (commercial source), 65 dBA (industrial source) | Not specified (nighttime reduction only applies to Class A/residential receiving properties in Kent's code, but the general limits would still apply if a nuisance is created) |
Note: 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.
Specific 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.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kent, WA Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Kent, WA?
10:00 PM - 7:00 AM (for residential receiving properties, decibel limits are reduced by 10 dBA). Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Kent, WA?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 55 dBA (residential source), 57 dBA (commercial source), 60 dBA (industrial source) during the day and 45 dBA (residential source), 47 dBA (commercial source), 50 dBA (industrial source) 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 Kent, WA?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Kent, WA police non-emergency line at 253-852-2121. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 253-856-5409.