Washington state technically prohibits jaywalking via RCW 46.61.240, requiring pedestrians to cross only at marked crosswalks or intersections, with fines possible in cities like Seattle despite state-level yielding allowances. Littering carries a base fine of $125 for up to one cubic foot (up from $50 in 2025), plus $93 extra on highways, as a Class 2 civil infraction.​
Common Unnoticed Violations
Many residents unknowingly break quirky rules daily. Willfully exposing others to contagious diseases like a cold in public is a misdemeanor under public health laws, though rarely enforced.​
- Hugging a passenger while driving counts as reckless driving per a 1927 statute.​
- King County Metro can eject riders for strong body odor disturbing others.​
Enforcement Realities
Speeding tops everyday infractions, often unnoticed until cited. These laws aim at safety and cleanliness, but citations for minor acts like jaywalking are uncommon unless accidents occur.​
SOURCES
[1](https://www.seattlebikeblog.com/2023/02/07/support-an-end-to-jaywalking-laws-in-washington/)
[2](https://www.fox13seattle.com/news/wa-hikes-littering-fines-125)
[3](https://www.brumleylawfirm.com/pedestrian-laws-in-washington-state/)
[4](https://www.brushwoodmedianetwork.com/washington/news-washington/watch-littering-fines-would-more-than-double-under-new-law-passed-by-wa-legislature)
[5](https://www.nbcrightnow.com/news/washington-state-raises-litter-fines-to-combat-waste-in-public-spaces/article_5fbd3081-3720-491d-b2b0-0bf98f05be28.html)
