Kent, WA
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Kent, WA.
Ordinance 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.
Quiet Hours
10:00 PM - 7:00 AM (for residential receiving properties, decibel limits are reduced by 10 dBA)
Police Non-Emergency
253-852-2121Decibel Limits
"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."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Kent, WA code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
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).
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.
Roosters are not specifically regulated but are considered a violation if their crowing disturbs neighbors. Wild or exotic animals are prohibited.
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
Quiet Hours?
10:00 PM - 7:00 AM (for residential receiving properties, decibel limits are reduced by 10 dBA).
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 253-852-2121.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Noise Solutions for Kent, WA
SolvedBest Gear for Kent, WA Residents
Ultrasonic Bark Control
Humane deterrent that emits a high-frequency sound when it detects barking.
Loop Quiet Ear Plugs
The "gold standard" for sleeping. Reduces noise by 24dB without the pain of foam plugs.
1/2" Thick Rug Pad
Essential for the "80% Rule." Adds density to rugs to absorb footfall impact noise for downstairs neighbors.
Hemp Calming Chews
Natural relief for dog anxiety. Perfect for separation anxiety barking or fear of fireworks.
ThunderShirt for Dogs
The best solution for anxiety-induced barking (fireworks, thunder, separation).
Marpac Dohm Classic
The original fan-based machine. Unlike digital loops, this creates real rushing air sound.
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