No, owning a flamethrower in Washington is prohibited under RCW 70.74.330, which classifies them as destructive devices. Local fire departments enforce compliance, and recent 2026 amendments to the Washington State Fire Code further restrict their possession without special permits.
Key Regulations for Owning a Flamethrower in Washington
- State Prohibition: RCW 70.74.330 explicitly bans destructive devices, including flamethrowers, without a valid permit from the Washington State Patrol.
- Local Enforcement: Fire departments in jurisdictions like Seattle and Spokane conduct inspections to ensure compliance, with violations subject to fines up to $5,000.
- 2026 Amendments: The Washington State Fire Code now requires additional safety certifications for any device capable of projecting flames, even if technically outside the destructive device definition.
Federal regulations under the ATF’s National Firearms Act do not preempt state laws, leaving Washington’s restrictions intact. Violations may result in criminal charges under RCW 9.41.280, with potential imprisonment. Consult the Washington State Patrol’s Firearms Unit for permit applications, though approvals are rare.