Drones (Unmanned Aircraft Systems or UAS)

To keep Capitol Campus safe for everyone, we have a general ban on using drones. Learn more about this rule including what makes up the Capitol Campus grounds, our safety concerns, and how the rule was established.

Drone rules on Capitol Campus

You may not launch, land, or operate drones or unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) on campus grounds. This rule applies to all types of unmanned aircraft — including remote-control model aircraft and drones flown for recreational or business purposes.

Exceptions

The ban does not apply to drones and UAS used during:

  • Emergencies by law enforcement and other first responders, such as local fire and health departments and state and federal environmental protection agencies
  • Activities required for the care and maintenance of the Capitol Campus if those activities have prior written approval by the director

See UAS/Drones Frequently Asked Questions (PDF 129 KB) to learn more.

Get approval to use a drone

You must get advance approval from the director to use a drone on campus grounds. The director will consider your request based on how the drone use will impact public health and safety, state resources, campus activities, and other factors detailed in WAC 200-250-050.

The approval may specify the time, location, or other restrictions for using your drone, which you must follow. If the director approves your request, you must also get authorization from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Capitol Campus grounds

The Capitol Campus includes:

  • Legislative Building
  • Temple of Justice
  • Governor's mansion
  • 15 state agency office buildings
  • 18 monuments, memorials, and artworks
  • Capitol Lake
  • Centennial, Heritage, Marathon, and Sylvester Parks
  • Capitol Lake Interpretive Center

View the Capitol Campus Boundary Map.

What is a UAS or drone?

drone flying

A UAS or drone may also be called:

  • an uncommanded aerial vehicles (UCAVs)
  • an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)
  • an unmanned flying vehicle
  • a remotely piloted vehicle (RPV)
  • a remotely operated aircraft
  • a remotely piloted aircraft
  • a robotic plane

UAS are considered aircraft by the FAA. Learn more about FAA rules and regulations.

Safety concerns

  • Potential public safety risks for people below or in a UAS/drone flight path
  • Risk of interfering with emergency response activities on Capitol Campus
  • Potential disruption of state business by UAS/drone activity

Rulemaking background

Before drafting a proposed rule, we held four public workshops and consulted with the FAA. After proposing rules, we held a 41-day public comment period including a public hearing on Dec. 22, 2015.

More information