Washington combines federal FAA airspace preemption with state criminal statutes prohibiting drone voyeurism, harassment, and interference with first responders that apply uniformly statewide.
Federal law (49 U.S.C. 40103 and FAA Part 107/Recreational rules) preempts state and local regulation of airspace and drone flight operations. Washington supplements with criminal statutes including RCW 9A.44.115 (voyeurism, applicable to drone surveillance), RCW 9A.46.020 (harassment), and RCW 9A.84.040 (interfering with emergency operations). Recreational pilots must register drones over 0.55 lb with the FAA, complete the TRUST exam, fly under 400 feet, maintain visual line of sight, and avoid restricted airspace. Local governments may regulate drone takeoff and landing from public property but cannot regulate flight in navigable airspace.
FAA violations can result in civil penalties up to $27,500 and criminal fines up to $250,000. Drone voyeurism is a Class C felony under RCW 9A.44.115 punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Edmonds, WA
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