No. Child labor under age 14 is prohibited in Washington under the state’s strict youth employment laws, which exceed federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) standards. Exceptions exist only for limited agricultural or entertainment work with prior Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) approval. Violations trigger fines up to $5,000 per offense under RCW 49.12.030.
Key Regulations for Child Labor Under 14 in Washington
- Permit Requirement: Employers must obtain a minor work permit from L&I before hiring any child under 14, with exceptions for family-owned businesses or domestic chores.
- Hour Restrictions: Minors under 14 may work only between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM during school vacations, with no more than 3 hours on school days or 8 hours on non-school days.
- Prohibited Occupations: The state bans minors under 14 from hazardous jobs (e.g., construction, manufacturing) and limits work in retail, food service, or agriculture to non-school hours.
Washington’s 2026 regulatory updates further tighten enforcement, requiring digital permit verification and mandatory parent/guardian consent forms. L&I’s 2024 guidance clarifies that even volunteer work for nonprofits may require permits if structured like employment. Employers face strict liability for non-compliance, with penalties escalating for repeat violations.