What are the quiet hours in Tacoma, WA?

In Tacoma, WA, designated quiet hours are typically 10PM-7AM. During these times, noise must be kept to a minimum.

What is the residential decibel limit in Tacoma, WA?

Daytime limit: Sound increasing total sound level by more than 10 dBA (outdoors) or 6 dBC (indoors) above ambient from 7 AM - 10 PM.. Nighttime limit: Sound increasing total sound level by more than 5 dBA (outdoors) or 3 dBC (indoors) above ambient from 10 PM - 7 AM.. Limits are measured as increases over ambient sound levels. Impulsive sounds are regulated: 15 dB(A) or more above ambient, with frequency limits (less than 10 impulses/hour day, 4 impulses/hour night). If frequency is exceeded, general limits apply.

Who do I call for a noise complaint in Tacoma, WA?

For non-emergencies in Tacoma, WA, contact the police at (253) 287-4455. For code violations, contact Code Enforcement at 3-1-1 or (253) 591-5000.

Tacoma, WA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]

When are quiet hours in Tacoma, WA?

Regulation	Details for Tacoma, WA
Quiet Hours	10PM-7AM
Weekends	See specific hours above
Enforcement	Police Non-Emergency: (253) 287-4455

10:00 PM - 7:00 AM (general); Construction: 9:00 PM - 7:00 AM (weekdays), 9:00 PM - 9:00 AM (weekends/holidays)

Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.

Who To Call (Non-Emergency)

(253) 287-4455 How to file a complaint →

Tacoma, WA Noise Rules

Verified 2026

What is the noise ordinance in Tacoma, WA?

Tacoma, WA noise ordinances, primarily Tacoma Municipal Code Chapter 8.122, regulate sound to protect public peace and welfare. They establish maximum permissible increases over ambient sound levels, define quiet hours for general activities and specific restrictions for construction and amplified music. Violations can result in civil penalties, with more severe consequences for chronic nuisance properties.

Decibel Limit Comparison

Decibel limits for residential and commercial zones in Tacoma, WA
Zone Type	Day	Night
Residential	Sound increasing total sound level by more than 10 dBA (outdoors) or 6 dBC (indoors) above ambient from 7 AM - 10 PM.	Sound increasing total sound level by more than 5 dBA (outdoors) or 3 dBC (indoors) above ambient from 10 PM - 7 AM.
Commercial	Sound increasing total sound level by more than 10 dBA (outdoors) or 6 dBC (indoors) above ambient from 7 AM - 10 PM. Commercial music cannot increase total sound level by 6 dBA or 6 dBC inside a dwelling or be plainly audible 100 feet from property line.	Sound increasing total sound level by more than 5 dBA (outdoors) or 3 dBC (indoors) above ambient from 10 PM - 7 AM. Commercial music cannot increase total sound level by 6 dBA or 6 dBC inside a dwelling or be plainly audible 100 feet from property line.

Note: Limits are measured as increases over ambient sound levels. Impulsive sounds are regulated: 15 dB(A) or more above ambient, with frequency limits (less than 10 impulses/hour day, 4 impulses/hour night). If frequency is exceeded, general limits apply.

Specific Restrictions

Construction:
Construction and demolition activities are prohibited between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM on weekdays, and between 9:00 PM and 9:00 AM on weekends and federal holidays. All construction devices must use a muffler if commonly available. Residential temporary projects (maintenance/repair) are allowed between 7:00 AM and 9:00 PM on weekdays, and 9:00 AM and 9:00 PM on weekends/holidays.
Amplified Sound:
Commercial music cannot increase the total sound level by 6 dBA or 6 dBC or more inside a receiving dwelling unit, or be plainly audible from a distance of 100 feet or more from the property line. Motor vehicle sound systems are prohibited if clearly audible 50 feet or more from the vehicle.
Animals:
Frequent, repetitive, or continuous animal sounds that unreasonably disturb the peace, comfort, and repose of property owners are considered public disturbance noises. Barking dogs are specifically addressed and regulated under Title 17 TMC.
Vehicles:
Motor vehicle sounds are regulated under Chapter 8.12 TMC. Public disturbance noises include the frequent, repetitive, or continuous sounding of a horn or siren (unless for danger), sounds from starting, operating, repairing, rebuilding, or testing motor vehicles in residential districts that disturb residents, and amplified sound from motor vehicles audible at 50 feet or more.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tacoma, WA Noise Rules

What are the designated quiet hours in Tacoma, WA?

10:00 PM - 7:00 AM (general); Construction: 9:00 PM - 7:00 AM (weekdays), 9:00 PM - 9:00 AM (weekends/holidays). Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.

How loud can I play music in Tacoma, WA?

Residential areas typically have a limit of Sound increasing total sound level by more than 10 dBA (outdoors) or 6 dBC (indoors) above ambient from 7 AM - 10 PM. during the day and Sound increasing total sound level by more than 5 dBA (outdoors) or 3 dBC (indoors) above ambient from 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 Tacoma, WA?

For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Tacoma, WA police non-emergency line at (253) 287-4455. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 3-1-1 or (253) 591-5000.