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Drone Laws in Washington State

Summary of Drone Laws in Washington State

Hobbyist Drone Laws For Residents of Washington State and USA

Drone Operations in Washington State are regulated.

  • Hobbyist drone flights are allowed
  • Hobbyist drone pilot license may be required for certain operations.
  • A TRUST Test is required.
  • Hobbyist Drone registration is required for hobbyists flying a drone of more than 0.55 lbs.
  • Drone Remote ID is required for hobbyists.
  • Drone Insurance is not required but recommended for hobbyists’ drone operations

Read below for more details on Hobbyist Drone Laws in Washington State and to find links to regulators and other credible sources!

Commercial Drone Laws For Residents of Washington State and USA

Drone Operations in Washington State are regulated.

  • Commercial drone flights are allowed
  • A commercial drone pilot license is required
  • Commercial Drone registration is required in Washington State
  • Drone Remote ID is required for Commercial Drone Operators.
  • Drone Insurance is not required but recommended for commercial drone operations

Read below for more details on Commercial Drone Laws in Washington State and to find links to regulators and other credible sources!

Drone Laws For Foreign Visitors To Washington State (not USA Residents)

Drone Operations in Washington State are regulated.

  • Foreign visitor drone flights are allowed in Washington State
  • Foreign visitor drone pilot license is required
  • Drone registration is required for visitors/tourists
  • Drone Remote ID is required in Washington State for tourists..
  • Drone Insurance is not required but recommended for tourist drone operations

Read below for more details on Drone Laws in Washington State for Visitors (Tourists) and to find links to regulators and other credible sources!

Drone Laws For Government Drone Operators

Drone Operations in Washington State are regulated.

  • Government drone flights are allowed in Washington State
  • Government drone pilot license is required
  • Drone registration is required for Government operations
  • Drone Remote ID is required in Washington State for Government operations..
  • Drone Insurance is not required for Government drone operations

Read below for more details on Drone Laws in Washington State for Government Drone Operations and to find links to regulators and other credible sources!

Agencies Responsible for regulating drones in Washington State

Drone Regulator in the USA: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

Contact Information

If you need additional details we have not covered or specific case assistance, you can contact the FAA directly at:

  • Address: 800 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20591
  • Phone: 844-FLY-MY-UA (+1 844-359-6982) (Some users have indicated that this number tells you to use the email below and hangs up)
  • Email: UAShelp@faa.gov

Please continue reading for more details on USA Drone Laws.

UAS Laws – General rules for flying drones in the State of Washington

Drone operation in the State of Washington is broadly governed by The Federal USA agency responsible for drone safety, the FAA. Click here for details on FAA USA Drone Laws.

In addition, the Washington State legislature has enacted several supplemental rules specific to Washington drone operations. The highlights are enumerated below.

Are drones allowed in the State of Washington?

Drones are allowed in the State of Washington for recreational and commercial use, subject to FAA regulations and flight controls established by local governments. Read on for details.

Specific additional drone use laws by the State of Washington legislature

WAC 200-250-030​ ​Drone use prohibited; State Capitol Campus
Launching, landing, or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters within the boundaries of the state capitol campus is prohibited except for the exclusions listed under WAC 200-250-040​.

The Chief Privacy Officer of the Washington Office of Privacy and Data Protection issued guidelines for unmanned aircraft systems​ for policymakers and stakeholders as they develop policy proposals.

Specific additional UAV laws by local governments within the State of Washington

Pierce County Freedom from Unwarranted Surveillance | Municipal Law (2013)

County departments and agencies cannot operate drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) to gather evidence or information about criminal activities. The only exceptions are situations authorized by federal and state laws.

The City of Seattle Film Permit Requirement // 2017

All drone operators must apply for a special permit for filming over the city-owned property. i.e., parks, streets, and sidewalks. No permit is required to operate drones exclusively from private property or solely over waterways.

City of Seattle | Municipal Law (2017)

This ordinance prohibits the use of remote-controlled drones and other UAVs for photography, aerial videography, and other recreational purposes. The reason for this city law is to protect the privacy and safety of people and parkland wildlife.

UAS operation rules in Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Preserves

Flying Drones in State Parks | WAC 352-32-130

Remote-controlled aircraft—including drones—are permitted in Washington state parks with formal written permission from the Director or designee. Permission to fly unmanned aerial systems (UAS) is granted on a single (one-time) basis or for an agreed limited duration. Applications are accepted for both recreational hobby pilots and commercial users.

However, commercial, educational, filming, and stills photography require a special permit and an RC Aircraft Permit. Interested parties should submit applications 60 days before the activity so that reviewers have ample time to process the application. Permits may also include park rules and restrictions based on the requested use.

Bellevue Parks & Rec | Acceptable Drone Flying Sites (2018)

Drone operations are not allowed at Bellevue Park. Pilots of unmanned aerial vehicles (AUV) are encouraged to fly their remote-controlled aircraft at nearby Marymoor Park Airfield or the Large recreation spaces at 60 Acres Park (based on availability). Both these venues cater to recreational model aircraft hobbyists.

Snohomish County Parks & Rec | Park Code 22.16.080 (1998)

This local park code states that no person can operate drones and other unmanned aircraft outside of areas designated and posted by the parks division.

Specific additional UAV laws in Jurisdictions within the State of Washington

Counties or towns within Washington may have specific restrictions within their jurisdictions. We recommend checking the local jurisdiction for the latest regulations.

What you must know about Washington State No Fly Zones or No Drone Zones

You need to know if you can operate your drone. Under what limitations? Will you need flight authorizations? And, if so, how do you get those authorizations?

We encourage you to read our explainer. It provides more details here: Explainer – What You Must Know About No Fly Zones or No Drone Zones

How do I check for no-fly zones, no-drone zones, and uncontrolled or controlled airspace in Washington State?

The FAA has partnered with several partners to develop B4UFLY mobile apps. Theses app can tell you if there are any airspace restrictions where you want to fly.

If you are looking for a drone no-fly zone map, then B4UFLY is a good place to start.

The app provides situational awareness to recreational flyers and other drone users. You will need airspace authorizations to fly in controlled airspace. This app does not allow you to get airspace authorizations. Authorizations are available through the FAA’s Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC).

The B4UFLY app is available to download for free:

B4UFLY Desktop and Mobile Applications

Approved Service  Provider (click on name to go to website)App on iOSApp on AndroidDesktop
Airspace LinkYesYesYes
AutoPylotYesYes
AvisionYesYesYes
UASidekickYesYesYes

How do I get authorization to fly in controlled airspace in Washington State?

The FAA runs Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC). It is the only way to get permission to fly in controlled airspace.

LAANC is available to drone pilots. It applies if you are operating under the Small UAS Rule Part 107. And it applies if you are operating under the exception for Recreational Flyers.

You can get access through one of the FAA-approved LAANC UAS Service Suppliers. Some providers have apps that can be used to apply for approval in near-real time.

The companies above (with B4UFLY capabilities) are also FAA-approved UAS Service Suppliers of the Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability.

There are two ways to use LAANC:

  • Submit a near real-time authorization request for operations. Applies to flights under 400 feet in controlled airspace around airports. This is available to Part 107 Pilots and Recreational Flyers.
  • Submit a “further coordination request.” This applies if you need to fly above the designated altitude ceiling in a UAS Facility Map, up to 400 feet.
  • You can apply up to 90 days before a flight. The approval is coordinated manually through the FAA. This is available to Part 107 pilots only.

LAANC is available at 726 airports. Use the manual process to apply for authorizations for airports not offering LAANC.

Notes for recreational drone pilots flying for fun in Washington State

If you have a small drone of less than 55 pounds, you can fly recreationally by following Drone Laws in the USA defined by 49 USC 44809.

In Washington State, recreational UAS operations (i.e., flying for recreational purposes) are approved under law, specifically 49 USC 44809. Please check the specific state jurisdiction for additional permissions, licensing, or clearance requirements.

Following these rules will keep you and your drone safe. And that helps keep the airspace available to everyone.

All recreational flyers must pass an aeronautical knowledge and safety test. The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) meets this rule. If law enforcement or FAA personnel ask, you must provide proof of passage. 

TRUST provides education and testing on important safety and regulatory information. If you fly your drone recreationally under the Exception for Recreational Flyers, you must pass the test before you fly. 

Note: If your drone weighs more than .55 pounds (lbs), you must register your drone through the FAA’s Drone Zone.

For a complete discussion on drone registration, see our Drone Registration Explainer.

To fly your drone as a recreational flyer, it’s as easy as 1-2-3

  1. Understand recreational flying requirements.
    • Note: Non-recreational drone use is when you fly drones for business or to help out, not just for fun. For example, real estate agents may use drones to photograph houses they sell. Roof inspectors might use drones to get a closer look at roofs. A high school might have someone fly a drone to record football games and post videos on their website. Doing volunteer work with drones also counts as non-recreational use. So, non-recreational drone use is any time you operate a drone for useful work. Or help others out. It is when you are not just doing it to enjoy flying it for hobby or sport. If you’re unsure which rules apply to your flight, fly under Part 107 (See below).
    • Visit the Recreational Flyers page to learn about the rules for recreational flyers.
    • Download the FAA’s B4UFLY mobile app for more recreational drone flying resources.
  2. Take TRUST
    • You may take the free online test through any FAA-approved test administrators.
    • All FAA-approved TRUST test administrators offer the test free.
    • All test questions are correctable to 100% before issuing your completion certificate.
    • After completing TRUST, you must download, save, or print your completion certificate.
    • If you lose your certificate, you will need to retake TRUST.
    • View a list of TRUST Test Administrators
  3. Receive your certificate
    • After you pass the test, you will receive a certificate. The test administrator you selected gives you your certificate.
    • Test administrators will not keep a record of your certificate. If law enforcement officers ask, you must present a copy of your certificate.

General Rules for Recreational Flyers

USC44809 is the Exception for Limited Recreational Operations of Unmanned Aircraft. The law describes how, when, and where you can fly drones for recreational purposes. Following these rules helps keep people, your drone, and our airspace safe:

  1. Fly only for recreational purposes (personal enjoyment).
  2. Follow the safety guidelines of an FAA-recognized Community-Based Organization (CBO). Read Advisory Circular 91-57C. It provides more information on how to become an FAA-recognized CBO, 
  3. Keep your drone within the visual line of sight. Or use a visual observer who is physically next to you and directly communicating with you.
  4. Give way to and do not interfere with other aircraft.
  5. Fly at or below FAA-authorized altitudes in controlled airspace with prior FAA authorization. Controlled airspace is Class B, C, D, and surface Class E designated for an airport. Get your FAA authorization using LAANC or DroneZone.
  6. Fly at or below 400 feet in Class G (uncontrolled) airspace. Note: Flying drones in restricted airspace is not allowed. Before the flight, drone pilots should always check for airspace restrictions. You can do so on the B4UFLY app or the UAS Facility Maps webpage.
  7. Take The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) and carry proof of test passage when flying.
  8. Have a current FAA registration. Mark (PDF) your drones on the outside with the registration number. And carry proof of registration when flying. Starting September 16, 2023, registered drones must broadcast Remote ID information. The FAA temporarily delayed enforcement to March 16, 2024. That law is now in place and being enforced.
  9. Do not operate your drone in a manner that endangers the safety of the national airspace system.

Recreational drone pilots must not violate safety requirements. Nor should they operate their drone flight carelessly or recklessly. You could be liable for criminal and/or civil penalties if you do.

You do not need a drone license if your drone use is recreational and falls within the scope of 44809. But, to fly your drone commercially, you must first get a Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC). This is also true for flights under the FAA’s Small UAS Rule (Part 107). The RPC is also known as a drone license or a Part 107 certificate. You may want to get your drone license for the flexibility it allows in your drone flights.

For more details on drone licensing, please see our Drone License Explainer.

Notes for operating Commercial Drone Services in the State of Washington

If you have a small unmanned aircraft that is less than 55 pounds, you can fly for work or business by following the Drone Laws in the USA defined by FAA Part 107 guidelines.

Commercial drone operations in Washington are approved under the FAA Part 107. Please check the specific state jurisdiction for additional permissions, licensing, or clearance requirements.

For a complete review of the FAA Part 107 regulation, please see our comprehensive FAA 107 Explainer.

Note: The Operations Over People rule became effective on April 21, 2021. Drone pilots operating under Part 107 may fly at night, over people and moving vehicles without a waiver as long as they meet the requirements defined in the rule. Airspace authorizations are still required for night operations in controlled airspace under 400 feet.

If you have a small drone of fewer than 55 pounds, you can fly for work or business by following the Part 107 guidelines. There are three main steps to fly under Part 107 rules.

Step 1: Learn the Rules

Ensure you understand what is and is not allowed under Part 107 rules.

If you are unsure if Part 107 rules work for you and your intended operation, check our user identification tool.

Some operations will need a waiver. Here are the regulations specified in §107.205 that are subject to waiver:

Learn more about Part 107 Waivers.

Drone operators should avoid flying near airports. It is difficult for crewed aircraft to see and avoid a drone while flying. Remember that the drone operator must avoid manned aircraft. You are responsible for any safety hazard your drone creates in an airport environment.

Step 2: Become an FAA-Certified Drone Pilot by Passing the Knowledge Test

For more details on drone licensing, please see our Drone License Explainer.

To be eligible to get your Remote Pilot Certificate, you must be:

  • At least 16 years old
  • Able to read, write, speak, and understand English
  • Be in a physical and mental condition to safely fly a UAS

Study for the Knowledge Test

Get an FAA Tracking Number (FTN)

Schedule an Appointment

Complete FAA Form 8710-13

Step 3: Register your Drone with the FAA

For a complete discussion on drone registration, see our Drone Registration Explainer.

Registration costs $5 and is valid for three years. You’ll need a credit or debit card and the make and model of your drone handy to register. Learn more about registering your drone.

  • Create an account and register your drone at FAADroneZone. Select “Fly sUAS under Part 107.”
  • Once you’ve registered, mark your drone (PDF) with your registration number. The number will be helpful in case it gets lost or stolen.

Commercial rules in Parks, Recreation and Cultural reserves

We suggest you contact the local parks agencies and check for specific permissions required.

Useful published information on flying drones in Washington

We have partnered with the FAA and other drone enthusiasts in supporting an internet educational campaign called Know Before You Fly. The tips, pointers, and resources apply to the State of Washington Drone Users also. Please visit the site for additional information: Know Before You Fly

Authoritative Sources of Information on Washington State Drone Laws

We will attempt to keep an updated list of online authoritative links to regulators and other official websites here:

NOTE: This page is about the Regulation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles: Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (SUAS), Small UAS, Remote Piloted Aerial Systems (RPAS), unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), Unmanned Aerial System (UAS), and drone are interchangeable terms unless specified. Model Aircraft, toy, remote-controlled, and RC aircraft may be covered by the same regulations unless specified.

Find out why

We think you must use a Drone Preflight Checklist

And a Drone Post-flight checklist

Free Drone Flight Checklist PDF

This Drone Flight Checklist is better than others.

It’s free!

It includes both the preflight checklist and post-flight checklist

It’s an easy-to-use printable PDF that covers all your bases.

Go here to read why you need a Drone Preflight Checklist and get the free PDF
Go here to read why you need a Drone Post-flight Checklist and get the free PDF

Traveling with a Drone?

Click here to read our Comprehensive Guide For Traveling With A Drone.

NOW IT’S YOUR TURN

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40 responses to “Drone Laws in Washington State”

  1. Rick Grossman

    I recently had a drone 10 feet from my window. Im on the eighth floor and did not expect to see it hovering outside of my window. I flew model. airplanes and rockets as a child, and think drones have fascinating uses.

    The laws must include rights of privacy as well as the requremebt that the pilot must consider safety the highest priority.

    Frankly it was creepy. I assume it was filming while it was up here and more than anything. It was probably a kid fascinated that he could do that but I don’t see much difference between this and hiding a camera in the bathroom. I’m also worried about corporate espionage or political . Having drones a few feet from the window of a boardroom of your competitor, could gather a lot of information..

    The drone is a tool and can be used for multiple purposes and we can’t plan the drone for this, but we all have the reasonable expectation that we can do as we please, in our own homes without someone spying on us from the outside

    Reply
    1. Editorial Team

      Rick, thanks for your comment.
      Fortunately most states have privacy rules which this behavior would appear to violate.
      There are specific commercial use cases, such as conducting a building inspection which could allow drones to fly close to a building.
      But we agree that in far too many cases these are simply a violation of privacy.
      We urge all drone operators to fly within the regulations and with respect for the safety and privacy of others.
      You should report these to local law enforcement.

      Reply
  2. Earl

    Simple answer to drone invasion.. apply for your home as a no fly zone and make a jammed bubble around your home so if a drone breaks that bubble the drone operation fails now technically the jammer could be called illegal but they gotta prove you are using it for that only and nothing else

    Reply
    1. Jana

      I would appreciate more information on this. Some idiot flies a loud whining drone over my barn snd arena. This scares the horses especially when the operator swoops down. No line of sight by the way as a grove of large conifers prevents that. Flipping off this jerk does nothing. Thurston County is so understaffed in the Sheriff’s office it is pointless and wrong to expect them to take care of this. I support any laws that curtail this activity. It used to be quiet, private and peaceful. My anger is huge.

      Reply
      1. Editorial Team

        We suggest you contact the local law enforcement.

        Reply
  3. Christopher

    I live in prosser Wa for the last year there have been hundreds of drones in the sky majority of them fly directly of my house. I watch the stars everyday and see these drones appearing to be idle in place because they keep coming out of no where. Now I have noticed they have to be government drones or police drones blinking in the front green once. Then once red on one side. Then and two white lights on the left and right . I have noticed that the drones flash light patterns and once they are above my house they Flash white lights on either side simultaneously going back to a different pattern once they pass the property

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      We recommend you contact your local law enforcement officials.

      Reply
  4. Tom

    I just picked up a DJI Mini 3 Pro for a trip I will be taking via motorcycle in June. In attempts to stay legal, I was reading the above article about the regulations for drones in Wa state. So even IF my drone is under .55 (250grams), I need to take the TRUST test, is that correct?

    Also, the extended range batteries push the drone over the 250 gram threshold, so would it be worth my while to go ahead and register the drone? Would I also need to obtain a pilots license to use the slightly heavier batteries? Thank you so much for this resource!

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Thank you for your kind words. You will need to take the TRUST test, and register the drone.

      Reply
      1. D. Robertson

        If the drone goes over 250g it has to be registered, and if it has to be registered it will also need remote ID (RID). That rule has been pushed out to March of next year but people are encouraged to comply sooner rather than later.

        Reply
  5. Ron Isaksen

    Are States declaring ownership of the airspace and levying fines and penalties for airspace incursions which belongs to the United States for the purpose of air commerce? Please read United States vs Causby – 328 U.S. 256 (1946) ht…tp://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/328/256/case.html Page 328 U. S. 260 I. The United States relies on the Air Commerce Act of 1926, 44 Stat. 568, 49 U.S.C. § 171 et seq., as amended by the Civil Aeronautics Act of 1938, 52 Stat. 973, 49 U.S.C. § 401 et seq. Under those statutes, the United States has “complete and exclusive national sovereignty in the air space” over this country. 49 U.S.C. § 176(a). They grant any citizen of the United States “a public right of freedom of transit in air commerce [Footnote 4] through the navigable air space of the United States.” 49 U.S.C. § 403. And “navigable air space” is defined as “airspace above the minimum safe altitudes of flight prescribed by the Civil Aeronautics Authority.” 49 U.S.C. § 180. And it is provided that “such navigable airspace shall be subject to a public right of freedom of interstate and foreign air navigation.” Id. It is therefore argued that, since these flights were within the minimum safe altitudes of flight which had been prescribed, they were an exercise of the declared right of travel through the airspace. The United States concludes that, when flights are made within the navigable airspace without any physical invasion of the property of the landowners, there has been no taking of property. It says that, at most, there was merely incidental damage occurring as a consequence of authorized air navigation. It also argues that the landowner does not own superadjacent airspace which he has not subjected to possession by the erection of structures or other occupancy. Moreover, it is argued that, even if the United States took airspace owned by respondents, no compensable damage was shown. Any damages are said to be merely consequential for which no compensation may be obtained under the Fifth Amendment. It is ancient doctrine that at common law ownership of the land extended to the periphery of the universe — cujo
    * Doug Walmsley on January 13, 2014 at 7:54amSee More







    Reply
  6. Kevin

    Hello,
    I’m looking for guidance on where I CAN fly a quadcopter recreationally and legally in Washington state. I cant fly at parks maintained by the city with the exception of the two hobby airplane clubs that want money and are located very fare from where I live. I like to keep good terms with my neighbors who are unsettled by me flying on my own property, heaven forbid flight over their property even at 150′, so that’s out. As amazing as fly through the trees in wooded areas looks, I’m looking for somewhere a little more open. so that leaves??? school fields? over the Puget sound? Are school fields considered a park maintained by the city? Again any guidance or correction to my perceived above restriction would be greatly appreciated.
    If there isn’t a reasonable path for success, we should all expect failure.
    -Kevin

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Kevin, some jurisdiction have made it extremely difficult to fly a drone. You should make your local legislator aware of your concerns

      Reply
  7. Evan

    There are efforts underway to establish “Remote ID” requirements that would allow people to identify drones and obtain other information about where the operator is located, etc. I don’t think they’re implemented yet, but it probably will happen sooner or later. I know there are already questions about Remote ID on the tests.

    Reply
  8. Jay M

    A ⅓ way down from this page is says –
    “If you have a small drone that is less than 55 pounds, you can fly recreationally by following the Drone Laws in the USA defined by FAA Part 107 guidelines.”

    Is it really 55 pounds or .55 pounds?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      It’s 55!

      The FAA has provided regulations for drones under 55 pounds which are listed on the page. Under .55 pounds are an unregulated category. Over 55 is regulated, but you must contact the FAA and each case is treated individually.

      Reply
    2. Magellian

      I am a part 107 holder.

      It is both .55 pounds and under 55 pounds. Under 55 pounds is regulated under part 107, meaning if you are flying for profit, your aircraft has to be registered. You will need to pay $5 and get display the registration number on the aircraft.

      If you are a recreational flyer, not making money you still need to register your drone, unless it is under 250grams or .55 pounds. It is considered a toy if it weights 249grams, take off weight, or less. You are not required to register it, but make sure it doesn’t weight more than that with accessories , bigger battery etc.

      Reply
  9. Max Jacob

    It’s difficult to figure out the local ordinances in regards to flying over private property without permission of property owner. I see there is a maximum height of 400’, and I understand that flying over others’ private property is not illegal, but finding it hard to find out a minimum height where, say, a neighbor might fly over someone’s property without it qualifying as “trespassing”. I’m dismayed that a neighbor has decided it’s okay to fly over my property and seems to want to test the limits of what he can legally do. Surely he’s recording video, and though I have nothing to hide, it feels worse than rude and a terrible violation of an expectation of basic privacy. It is alarming to pets and unsettling for family, to say the least. But what good is it to contact law enforcement if he’s not technically breaking any laws? I’m not saying he’s not, by the way, which is why I’m looking for some regulation pertaining to minimum altitude. Surely it’s not okay for him to be hovering outside my windows? It’s a shame people will take advantage of the absence of laws to behave badly until the necessary laws are written. Sort of ruins in for the ones who do have scruples.

    Reply
    1. Abe Caroc

      Absolutely! My neighbor just did it at 20 feet. I told him if he did it again; I would shoot it down with my pellet gun. I’ll be the one to get into trouble probably knowing the libs tied the Police hands around here. SMH…

      Reply
      1. Norman MacLeod

        It’s a violation of federal law to shoot at an aircraft, and a drone is an aircraft.

        It’s also a violation of several other laws to discharge a firearm into the air.

        Reply
    2. D. Robertson

      There may be a violation of privacy laws in this particular case. He may be legally flying it over your property, but if he’s hovering, and taking videos (they are always taking videos, count on it), towards your house then you may have an intrusion of privacy case. Best of luck. Your neighbor is being a bad neighbor and that’s why we will see more and more drone-restricting laws in the future, because of bad actors like him.

      Reply
  10. Marilyn

    Very frustrated that privacy is not a central part of drone regulation. A drone hovered over some neighbors and I in our backyard chatting. Next door neighbor said one hovered over her and her husband while in hot tub last week and 2 days later a drone was slowly going down our street, probably casing house (and our neighborhood is beginning to see increased car prowls, let alone packages being stolen). A call to our Tumwater Police Department revealed we have no municipal codes regarding drones. I searched on the FAA website and they note they do not even address the privacy issue. I’m still trying to search the Washington State site but don’t hold out much hope. Regulation will, come too late, I am sure………

    Reply
  11. Sara Van Zandt

    Our adjacent neighbor’s home is listed for sale. There are drone photos of the listed home along with drone photos of our home showing the lay of our land. I requested the agent crop or blur our house out as there has been a high crime spree lately of anything not nailed down. The agent and house broker refused. This in my opinion is an abuse of my private enjoyment of my property.
    Are there any laws to prohibit this?

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Sara, unfortunately, this does not seem to have violated drone laws. Please check whether local privacy laws restrict this

      Reply
  12. Zona

    Recently my husband was repairing a covering that hides our propane tanks. He had a larger tool that is painted red that can be seen from the road.
    That night when we went to bed, I heard someone talking outside our window & our dog growled. Since we are on 2 1/4 acres this was highly unusual. I first made sure the doors were all locked & then checked the cameras. A drone had been flown over the area where the tool had been setting. I understood a little of the comments. What I heard was not anything.
    Laws need to be strengthen & home owners should be able to have a way to disable a drone.
    Needless to say, I didn’t sleep that night.

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Please contact your local law enforcement

      Reply
  13. Steve

    I just had a heated argument with a drone operator who was flying his drone directly over my head, as I was working in my garden.
    You operators are so concerned about your rights but ignore the right to privacy on our own property. When I showed him my middle finger he moved the drone lower about 20 feet over my head.
    Then stayed there.
    I think you people are a menace and the laws need to be more restrictive. I can’t think of anything more intrusive than drones and their rude and selfish behavior.
    Those things are causing an uproar in neighborhoods across the country.

    Reply
    1. Jim

      Steve, at the very least, the description you provide suggests trespass, and probably a violation of the FAA rule of “line of sight” to the drone operator. You can involve the police to at least get the action on record, and if the culprit can be identified (good luck), you might be able to make a case.

      Reply
      1. Evan

        I don’t think you could make the argument for “trespass” since the FAA, and not local agencies regulate airspace. Homeowners don’t “own” the airspace over their houses from a legal perspective. That said, there are regulations in FAA FAR Part 107 that cover sustained operation over people. In general, transiting over an area with people is okay, but hanging around over people is restricted.

        Reply
  14. Karen

    How does the law stand regarding high speed noisy drone in neighborhood day in and day out. I am way over on the next street and flies it over my yard continuously .I can not even enjoy being in my yard.

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Karen, we suggest you contact local law enforcement

      Reply
  15. MPArts

    Some idiot flew their drone on to my friends’ private property. I’m leaving this comment here to tell them that, laws be damned, we catch that thing around here again, I’ll knock it out the sky and you’ll find it in the river. Stay away from my friends, for real.

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Please note that interfering with drones can lead to personal liability and fines. We recommend you contact your local law enforcement and let them deal with it.

      Reply
  16. Ken

    States that I need a permit to film in Seattle with my drone but filming in public is protected by the 1st amendment of the constitution

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Ken, our understanding is that the legislatures get around this by regulating the use of the drone, not the filming.

      Reply
  17. Ken

    If filming in public is legal even in state parks how can you stop me from taking pictures in a state park with my drones

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Ken, we are not stopping you from doing anything. We are not regulators. We are drone enthusiast volunteers who are sharing information about the existing laws governing the use of drones.

      Reply
  18. Karen

    Hello,

    I enjoyed the video on your website (https://drone-laws.com/drone-laws-in-washington-state/), however it looks like these are places that don’t allow drones such as state and national parks. Without knowing where exactly they were taken can you confirm the video you posted (Flying over Washington, United States – ​Relaxation Drone Film) was indeed done legally? Important since you are a drone-laws website 😉

    Thanks,
    Karen

    Reply
    1. Merlin at Drone Laws

      Karen thank you for your comment.
      You should know that we have no relationship with the videographer or publisher and we cannot ascertain the legality of drone videos posted on YouTube.
      We work on the assumption that popular drone videos shown on YouTube will be considered commercial activity which requires permissions and licensing different from hobbyists, and could be properly obtained.
      If these videos were illegally obtained we hope that Google YouTube would have them removed.

      Reply
      1. Lani Doely

        Thanks Karen I was wondering the same thing on legality and also on visual line of site on some of those shots. It may be possible though to get permission in parks…

        Reply

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40 thoughts on “Drone Laws in Washington State”

  1. I recently had a drone 10 feet from my window. Im on the eighth floor and did not expect to see it hovering outside of my window. I flew model. airplanes and rockets as a child, and think drones have fascinating uses.

    The laws must include rights of privacy as well as the requremebt that the pilot must consider safety the highest priority.

    Frankly it was creepy. I assume it was filming while it was up here and more than anything. It was probably a kid fascinated that he could do that but I don’t see much difference between this and hiding a camera in the bathroom. I’m also worried about corporate espionage or political . Having drones a few feet from the window of a boardroom of your competitor, could gather a lot of information..

    The drone is a tool and can be used for multiple purposes and we can’t plan the drone for this, but we all have the reasonable expectation that we can do as we please, in our own homes without someone spying on us from the outside

    Reply

    • Rick, thanks for your comment.
      Fortunately most states have privacy rules which this behavior would appear to violate.
      There are specific commercial use cases, such as conducting a building inspection which could allow drones to fly close to a building.
      But we agree that in far too many cases these are simply a violation of privacy.
      We urge all drone operators to fly within the regulations and with respect for the safety and privacy of others.
      You should report these to local law enforcement.

      Reply

  2. Simple answer to drone invasion.. apply for your home as a no fly zone and make a jammed bubble around your home so if a drone breaks that bubble the drone operation fails now technically the jammer could be called illegal but they gotta prove you are using it for that only and nothing else

    Reply

    • I would appreciate more information on this. Some idiot flies a loud whining drone over my barn snd arena. This scares the horses especially when the operator swoops down. No line of sight by the way as a grove of large conifers prevents that. Flipping off this jerk does nothing. Thurston County is so understaffed in the Sheriff’s office it is pointless and wrong to expect them to take care of this. I support any laws that curtail this activity. It used to be quiet, private and peaceful. My anger is huge.

      Reply

  3. I live in prosser Wa for the last year there have been hundreds of drones in the sky majority of them fly directly of my house. I watch the stars everyday and see these drones appearing to be idle in place because they keep coming out of no where. Now I have noticed they have to be government drones or police drones blinking in the front green once. Then once red on one side. Then and two white lights on the left and right . I have noticed that the drones flash light patterns and once they are above my house they Flash white lights on either side simultaneously going back to a different pattern once they pass the property

    Reply

  4. I just picked up a DJI Mini 3 Pro for a trip I will be taking via motorcycle in June. In attempts to stay legal, I was reading the above article about the regulations for drones in Wa state. So even IF my drone is under .55 (250grams), I need to take the TRUST test, is that correct?

    Also, the extended range batteries push the drone over the 250 gram threshold, so would it be worth my while to go ahead and register the drone? Would I also need to obtain a pilots license to use the slightly heavier batteries? Thank you so much for this resource!

    Reply

      • If the drone goes over 250g it has to be registered, and if it has to be registered it will also need remote ID (RID). That rule has been pushed out to March of next year but people are encouraged to comply sooner rather than later.

        Reply

  5. Are States declaring ownership of the airspace and levying fines and penalties for airspace incursions which belongs to the United States for the purpose of air commerce? Please read United States vs Causby – 328 U.S. 256 (1946) ht…tp://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/328/256/case.html Page 328 U. S. 260 I. The United States relies on the Air Commerce Act of 1926, 44 Stat. 568, 49 U.S.C. § 171 et seq., as amended by the Civil Aeronautics Act of 1938, 52 Stat. 973, 49 U.S.C. § 401 et seq. Under those statutes, the United States has “complete and exclusive national sovereignty in the air space” over this country. 49 U.S.C. § 176(a). They grant any citizen of the United States “a public right of freedom of transit in air commerce [Footnote 4] through the navigable air space of the United States.” 49 U.S.C. § 403. And “navigable air space” is defined as “airspace above the minimum safe altitudes of flight prescribed by the Civil Aeronautics Authority.” 49 U.S.C. § 180. And it is provided that “such navigable airspace shall be subject to a public right of freedom of interstate and foreign air navigation.” Id. It is therefore argued that, since these flights were within the minimum safe altitudes of flight which had been prescribed, they were an exercise of the declared right of travel through the airspace. The United States concludes that, when flights are made within the navigable airspace without any physical invasion of the property of the landowners, there has been no taking of property. It says that, at most, there was merely incidental damage occurring as a consequence of authorized air navigation. It also argues that the landowner does not own superadjacent airspace which he has not subjected to possession by the erection of structures or other occupancy. Moreover, it is argued that, even if the United States took airspace owned by respondents, no compensable damage was shown. Any damages are said to be merely consequential for which no compensation may be obtained under the Fifth Amendment. It is ancient doctrine that at common law ownership of the land extended to the periphery of the universe — cujo
    * Doug Walmsley on January 13, 2014 at 7:54amSee More







    Reply

  6. Hello,
    I’m looking for guidance on where I CAN fly a quadcopter recreationally and legally in Washington state. I cant fly at parks maintained by the city with the exception of the two hobby airplane clubs that want money and are located very fare from where I live. I like to keep good terms with my neighbors who are unsettled by me flying on my own property, heaven forbid flight over their property even at 150′, so that’s out. As amazing as fly through the trees in wooded areas looks, I’m looking for somewhere a little more open. so that leaves??? school fields? over the Puget sound? Are school fields considered a park maintained by the city? Again any guidance or correction to my perceived above restriction would be greatly appreciated.
    If there isn’t a reasonable path for success, we should all expect failure.
    -Kevin

    Reply

    • Kevin, some jurisdiction have made it extremely difficult to fly a drone. You should make your local legislator aware of your concerns

      Reply

  7. There are efforts underway to establish “Remote ID” requirements that would allow people to identify drones and obtain other information about where the operator is located, etc. I don’t think they’re implemented yet, but it probably will happen sooner or later. I know there are already questions about Remote ID on the tests.

    Reply

  8. A ⅓ way down from this page is says –
    “If you have a small drone that is less than 55 pounds, you can fly recreationally by following the Drone Laws in the USA defined by FAA Part 107 guidelines.”

    Is it really 55 pounds or .55 pounds?

    Reply

    • It’s 55!

      The FAA has provided regulations for drones under 55 pounds which are listed on the page. Under .55 pounds are an unregulated category. Over 55 is regulated, but you must contact the FAA and each case is treated individually.

      Reply

    • I am a part 107 holder.

      It is both .55 pounds and under 55 pounds. Under 55 pounds is regulated under part 107, meaning if you are flying for profit, your aircraft has to be registered. You will need to pay $5 and get display the registration number on the aircraft.

      If you are a recreational flyer, not making money you still need to register your drone, unless it is under 250grams or .55 pounds. It is considered a toy if it weights 249grams, take off weight, or less. You are not required to register it, but make sure it doesn’t weight more than that with accessories , bigger battery etc.

      Reply

  9. It’s difficult to figure out the local ordinances in regards to flying over private property without permission of property owner. I see there is a maximum height of 400’, and I understand that flying over others’ private property is not illegal, but finding it hard to find out a minimum height where, say, a neighbor might fly over someone’s property without it qualifying as “trespassing”. I’m dismayed that a neighbor has decided it’s okay to fly over my property and seems to want to test the limits of what he can legally do. Surely he’s recording video, and though I have nothing to hide, it feels worse than rude and a terrible violation of an expectation of basic privacy. It is alarming to pets and unsettling for family, to say the least. But what good is it to contact law enforcement if he’s not technically breaking any laws? I’m not saying he’s not, by the way, which is why I’m looking for some regulation pertaining to minimum altitude. Surely it’s not okay for him to be hovering outside my windows? It’s a shame people will take advantage of the absence of laws to behave badly until the necessary laws are written. Sort of ruins in for the ones who do have scruples.

    Reply

    • Absolutely! My neighbor just did it at 20 feet. I told him if he did it again; I would shoot it down with my pellet gun. I’ll be the one to get into trouble probably knowing the libs tied the Police hands around here. SMH…

      Reply

      • It’s a violation of federal law to shoot at an aircraft, and a drone is an aircraft.

        It’s also a violation of several other laws to discharge a firearm into the air.

        Reply

    • There may be a violation of privacy laws in this particular case. He may be legally flying it over your property, but if he’s hovering, and taking videos (they are always taking videos, count on it), towards your house then you may have an intrusion of privacy case. Best of luck. Your neighbor is being a bad neighbor and that’s why we will see more and more drone-restricting laws in the future, because of bad actors like him.

      Reply

  10. Very frustrated that privacy is not a central part of drone regulation. A drone hovered over some neighbors and I in our backyard chatting. Next door neighbor said one hovered over her and her husband while in hot tub last week and 2 days later a drone was slowly going down our street, probably casing house (and our neighborhood is beginning to see increased car prowls, let alone packages being stolen). A call to our Tumwater Police Department revealed we have no municipal codes regarding drones. I searched on the FAA website and they note they do not even address the privacy issue. I’m still trying to search the Washington State site but don’t hold out much hope. Regulation will, come too late, I am sure………

    Reply

  11. Our adjacent neighbor’s home is listed for sale. There are drone photos of the listed home along with drone photos of our home showing the lay of our land. I requested the agent crop or blur our house out as there has been a high crime spree lately of anything not nailed down. The agent and house broker refused. This in my opinion is an abuse of my private enjoyment of my property.
    Are there any laws to prohibit this?

    Reply

    • Sara, unfortunately, this does not seem to have violated drone laws. Please check whether local privacy laws restrict this

      Reply

  12. Recently my husband was repairing a covering that hides our propane tanks. He had a larger tool that is painted red that can be seen from the road.
    That night when we went to bed, I heard someone talking outside our window & our dog growled. Since we are on 2 1/4 acres this was highly unusual. I first made sure the doors were all locked & then checked the cameras. A drone had been flown over the area where the tool had been setting. I understood a little of the comments. What I heard was not anything.
    Laws need to be strengthen & home owners should be able to have a way to disable a drone.
    Needless to say, I didn’t sleep that night.

    Reply

  13. I just had a heated argument with a drone operator who was flying his drone directly over my head, as I was working in my garden.
    You operators are so concerned about your rights but ignore the right to privacy on our own property. When I showed him my middle finger he moved the drone lower about 20 feet over my head.
    Then stayed there.
    I think you people are a menace and the laws need to be more restrictive. I can’t think of anything more intrusive than drones and their rude and selfish behavior.
    Those things are causing an uproar in neighborhoods across the country.

    Reply

    • Steve, at the very least, the description you provide suggests trespass, and probably a violation of the FAA rule of “line of sight” to the drone operator. You can involve the police to at least get the action on record, and if the culprit can be identified (good luck), you might be able to make a case.

      Reply

      • I don’t think you could make the argument for “trespass” since the FAA, and not local agencies regulate airspace. Homeowners don’t “own” the airspace over their houses from a legal perspective. That said, there are regulations in FAA FAR Part 107 that cover sustained operation over people. In general, transiting over an area with people is okay, but hanging around over people is restricted.

        Reply

  14. How does the law stand regarding high speed noisy drone in neighborhood day in and day out. I am way over on the next street and flies it over my yard continuously .I can not even enjoy being in my yard.

    Reply

  15. Some idiot flew their drone on to my friends’ private property. I’m leaving this comment here to tell them that, laws be damned, we catch that thing around here again, I’ll knock it out the sky and you’ll find it in the river. Stay away from my friends, for real.

    Reply

    • Please note that interfering with drones can lead to personal liability and fines. We recommend you contact your local law enforcement and let them deal with it.

      Reply

  16. States that I need a permit to film in Seattle with my drone but filming in public is protected by the 1st amendment of the constitution

    Reply

    • Ken, our understanding is that the legislatures get around this by regulating the use of the drone, not the filming.

      Reply

    • Ken, we are not stopping you from doing anything. We are not regulators. We are drone enthusiast volunteers who are sharing information about the existing laws governing the use of drones.

      Reply

  18. Hello,

    I enjoyed the video on your website (https://drone-laws.com/drone-laws-in-washington-state/), however it looks like these are places that don’t allow drones such as state and national parks. Without knowing where exactly they were taken can you confirm the video you posted (Flying over Washington, United States – ​Relaxation Drone Film) was indeed done legally? Important since you are a drone-laws website 😉

    Thanks,
    Karen

    Reply

    • Karen thank you for your comment.
      You should know that we have no relationship with the videographer or publisher and we cannot ascertain the legality of drone videos posted on YouTube.
      We work on the assumption that popular drone videos shown on YouTube will be considered commercial activity which requires permissions and licensing different from hobbyists, and could be properly obtained.
      If these videos were illegally obtained we hope that Google YouTube would have them removed.

      Reply

      • Thanks Karen I was wondering the same thing on legality and also on visual line of site on some of those shots. It may be possible though to get permission in parks…

        Reply

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