(The Center Square) – The Seattle City Council has passed an ordinance expanding regulations on after-hours bars and clubs to address a rise in late-night gun violence.
Council Bill 120956, sponsored by City Councilmembers Bob Kettle and Sara Nelson, seeks to reduce gun violence associated with nightlife in the Emerald City.
The bill applies to nightlife lounges and clubs operating between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. where smoking or dancing occurs.
It does not apply to bars that close by 2 a.m., late-night restaurants, adult entertainment venues, or theaters.
After-hours nightlife lounges will be required to obtain and comply with all city permits and licenses, employ at least two security personnel, operate video surveillance, prevent weapons from entering premises, have a safety plan, and allow entry to city peace officers during operating hours.
Violation of the regulations could result in civil citations and escalating penalties, with the first violation resulting in a $1,000 civil citation. Continued violations could ultimately result in suspension or revocation of a city business license.
“The after-hours lounge legislation is an overdue measure to protect these businesses, their patrons, and the surrounding neighborhoods,” Kettle said in a statement. “Ultimately, the violence needs to stop, and we believe these regulations are another crucial step towards fostering a safer environment for everyone in Seattle.”
City data shows that there were 47 nightlife-linked shootings in 2024, and at least 19 shootings so far in 2025. Most of these incidents occur between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m.
Most recently, on March 30, there was a double homicide at a nightclub in the Rainier Beach neighborhood.
Seattle officials estimate that the new regulations apply to roughly 20 to 30 venues throughout the city. These businesses will have an initial education period to help bring them into compliance.
The legislation does come with a cost. According to a fiscal note, the city could face up to $100,000 in ongoing costs for overtime and outreach under the new law, which is managed by the Seattle Department of Finance and Administrative Service.
For this year, these costs could be absorbed by departmental underspend.
After 2025, ongoing costs could require additional funding.
Seattle City Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck successfully included an amendment to Council Bill 120956 that requests the Department of Finance and Administrative Services to enact an implementation plan, and provide data to the city council on whether the ordinance has reduced violent crime outcomes.
“It is my sincere hope that this legislation mitigates gun violence, because there has been far too much death in our communities and I want us to have the data to show proof that this legislation has an impact,” Mercedes Rinck said during the city council meeting on Tuesday.
The ordinance goes into effect 30 days after Mayor Bruce Harrell signs it. Harrell is expected to sign it in the next few days.
