Flights Are Allowed, But Permits Are Required

The State Parks division of Washington State has posted a document on its website outlining where and how drones can be used in the state park system.

According to the document, Washington State Parks allows the use of remote controlled aircraft, also known as drones or unmanned aircraft systems, on a limited basis. Permits are required for each instance of their use. For adequate processing time, please submit your permit application two weeks prior to the date you plan to fly your remote controlled aircraft.

For more information on applying for a remote controlled aircraft permit, please read the Remote Controlled Aircraft Permit Instructions. A non-refundable application fee of $25 is due upon submission of a permit application. Additional fees may be assessed.

Use of remote controlled aircraft

The use of remote controlled aircraft is regulated within State Parks by WAC 352-32-130 (5), which allows for the flying of remote controlled aircraft with written permission of the director or designee. Remote controlled aircraft may be permitted on a single occurrence or limited duration basis with written permission from the director or designee. The request may be for recreational or commercial purposes, and permittees are required to comply with all state and federal rules and regulations, including the Federal Aviation Administration guidelines on use of drones.   

The use of remote controlled aircraft also is regulated by the Federal Government.  The two most relevant rules are Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulation (14 CFR) Part 107 and Public Law 112-95, Section 336 Special Rules for Model Aircraft.

Use of drones for filming and professional photography

When requesting to use a remote controlled aircraft for filming or still photography, you may need an additional film permit. If taking pictures for personal use only, no additional permit is required.

If you are taking pictures for professional or commercial purposes, fill out a film permit and include a remote controlled aircraft permit as an attachment; only pay the fee for the film permit.

Professional/commercial photography purpose definition: When an individual or organization wants to film and/or take still photography in a state park with the intent to sell or otherwise use the products for an economic gain (includes catalog or other advertising still photography).

For more information on filming in state parks, please visit the film permit webpage.

Contact Information
To apply for permits, send a completed application, payment and insurance binder to the park where the activities will occur. See the park contact list for park addresses, emails and phone numbers.

If you need additional information or are unable to use the provided links, contact the following locations for assistance or to request a printed application packet.

FMI: parks.state.wa.us/1080/Remote-Controlled-Aircraft