A: Yes, the rules are:
In addition, the state law can be found in Chapter 70.107 RCW, Noise Control Act.
A: Noise or sound is measured in decibels (dB or dBA). The “A” filter (dBA) is the one most frequently used because it best matches the range of human hearing. An instrument called a sound-level meter is used to measure the decibel level. It is designed to respond in approximately the same way as the human ear and gives an objective assessment of sound-pressure level.
A: If you are in a residential area, the maximum allowed amount of noise coming into the property depends on its source.
Noise Source
- Residential receiving property to Residential = 55dBA, Commercial= 57dBA, Industrial= 60dBA
- Commercial - Residential= 57dBA, Commercial= 60dBA, Industrial= 65dBA
- Industrial - Residential = 60dBA, Commercial= 65dBA, Industrial= 70dBA
If you are in a commercial area, the maximum allowed amount of noise coming into the property is 57dBA from a residential area, 60dBA from another commercial area, and 65dBA from an industrial area.
If you are in an industrial area, the maximum allowed amount of noise coming into the property is 60dBA from a residential area, 65dBA from a commercial area, and 70dBA from another industrial area.
Your local noise ordinance may have different maximum dBA levels. When the local noise ordinance is different, those are the standards and limits that apply.
A: Yes. State law requires off-road and other non-highway vehicles use specified noise-muffling devices (see RCW 46.09.120(1)(e), maximum limits and test procedures). State agencies and local governments may adopt regulations governing the operation of non-highway vehicles on property, streets, or highways within their jurisdiction, provided they are not less stringent than state law (see RCW 46.09.180, regulation by local political subdivisions).
A: Here is a list of common noise levels.
- Airport plan take-off - 120dB
- Rock concert - 105dB
- Lawn Mower - 100dB
- Blender - 90dB
- Garbage disposal - 80dB
- Traffic noise - 70-80dB
- Vacuum - 70dB
- Office - 60-65dB
- Library - 35dB
- Breathing - 10dB
A: Local noise ordinances can differ, when necessary, from the rules we have issued due to local conditions. Local governments are encouraged to develop their own noise ordinances (a county or city law) and dedicate funding and personnel to enforce those standards. When the local noise ordinance is different, the standards and limits in the local noise ordinance will apply. If something is not covered by the local noise ordinance, then Ecology’s rules apply.
A: If your local government has not adopted a noise ordinance then Ecology’s noise rules apply and are enforceable by the local government.
A: There are three roles that local government may have in regulating noise:
- Adopt a local noise ordinance to set noise standards for their area.
- Enforce those local noise ordinances.
- If no local noise ordinances exist, enforce Ecology’s rules.
A: Any local noise ordinance that is different from Ecology’s rules must be submitted to Ecology. If Ecology doesn’t approve/disapprove the local noise ordinance within 90 days, the ordinance is considered approved.
A: The Federal Railroad Administration handles complaints about rail noise.
Federal Railroad Administration
Regional Administrator; Region 8
Murdock Building
703 Broadway
Vancouver, WA 98660
360-696-7536