Can I still listen to police scanners in SeaTac, WA?

Based on FCC license data, not yet confirmed by the agency. We haven't confirmed with SeaTac's police or fire department whether their radio is encrypted. Source: FCC ULS license file of 18 Oct 2026, checked 27 Oct 2026.

What the FCC licenses show

Public safety channels in King County, WA are mostly digital (56% digital, 27% analog, 18% both). Licenses don't show encryption, so some channels may still be encrypted.

No license in the FCC file is in SeaTac's own name, so its police and fire most likely use county or regional radio (81 public safety licensees in King County).

FCC source: FCC ULS license file, file date 18 Oct 2026, as of 27 Oct 2026.

Which scanner works here

Most public safety radio around SeaTac (King County) is licensed as digital. No scanner can play encrypted channels.

Top pick

Uniden SDS100 (handheld)

P25 Phase II

Most public safety radio around SeaTac is licensed as digital. A digital P25 Phase II scanner hears analog and P25, wherever traffic isn't encrypted. It also handles simulcast sites, which licenses don't show.

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Cheaper P25 option

Whistler WS1065 (desk)

P25 Phase II

Hears P25 Phase I and II, but can struggle near simulcast sites. A good choice if you've confirmed the local system isn't simulcast.

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Nearby in King County

Seattle · Federal Way · Kirkland · Bellevue · Kent · Redmond · Renton · Auburn

All of King County · Don't buy the wrong scanner