(1) Scope. The following rules shall apply to moored balloons when operated anywhere in the state of Washington at altitude controlled by state law.

(2) General. Moored balloons may be operated without permit from or notice to the state when operated less than 150 feet above the surface at a location not usually traveled by aircraft.

(3) Operation requiring a permit. Unless operated under the conditions specified in "general" moored balloons subject to these regulations shall be operated under the authority of and in compliance with the terms and conditions of a permit issued by the state aeronautics commission when such moored balloons are operated:

(a) Closer than 500 feet to the base of any cloud; or

(b) During the hours of darkness; or

(c) When ground visibility is less than 3 miles; or

(d) At altitudes more than 150 feet above the surface; or

(e) In a location usually traveled by aircraft.

(4) Written notice of intent must be submitted to the office of the commission at least 30 days prior to the date of operation. Such notice shall contain the name and address of the owner and person operating the balloon, the date or dates of the proposed operation, and the location and altitude at which the proposed operation will be conducted. No moored balloons will be operated without written approval from the Washington state aeronautics commission.

(5) Rapid deflation device. No moored balloon having a diameter of more than 6 feet or a gas capacity of more than 115 cubic feet shall be operated unless it is equipped with a device or means of automatic and rapid deflation in the event of an escape from its moorings.