Lights Hung Incorrectly in the Tri-Cities Could Cost You $11,000

If you don't hang your Christmas Lights the right way in the Tri-Cities, you might face an $11,000 fine.

Over the weekend, my neighbors were hanging their lights and they look pretty amazing. I did notice they have some fancy laser lights and those kinds of lights have become a growing concern of the FAA ( Federal Aviation Administration)

If You Don't Hang Your Christmas Lights Right, It Could Cost You $11,000

Our sister station in Boise posted a similar story and it got me digging into the facts about laser lights and how they affect the planes overhead. I didn't realize it was a thing but soon realized it's pretty dangerous to planes and pilots in the air.

The FAA Says That New Technology Allows Laser Lights Longer Distance

According to the FAA, laser lights not pointed the right way, can shoot directly up into the sky, distracting pilots. It might not seem like the lights can shine that brightly but according to the FAA, there are seeing more and more reports of laser lights pointed skyward and interfering with aircraft in the sky.

You Can Get A Massive Fine If Your Lights Interfere With An Airplane

Do you realize if you use those kinds of lights, you could be subject to an $11,000 fine from the FFA?

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The FAA posted a warning about laser lights on their website:

Here are details from the FAA

The FAA is continuing its awareness campaign and working with law enforcement to reduce laser strikes throughout the country.

Pointing lasers at aircraft creates a serious safety risk to pilots and may damage their vision.

Pointing a laser at an aircraft is a federal offense. The FAA works closely with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to pursue civil and criminal penalties against people who purposely aim a laser at an aircraft.

The agency may take enforcement action against people who violate Federal Aviation Regulations by shining lasers at aircraft and can impose civil penalties of up to $11,000 per violation.

The FAA can impose civil penalties up to $30,800 against people who commit multiple laser violations.

The substantial number of reported incidents clearly show that laser strikes on aircraft remain a serious threat to aviation safety.

How Many Cases Have Been Reported About The Lazer Lights?

The reported cases of laser lights and lights not being hung right have escalated over the last few years. The FAA had a reported 6000 + cases last year reported and it could mean an $11,000 fine and even more if you are a repeat offender.

What Can I Do To Make Sure The FAA Doesn't Fine Me?

It's better to be safe than sorry and make sure if you have any laser lights on your property, that they are pointed in the right direction and not skyward. You can read more details about the FFA's warning release here.