title: RCW 70A.200.140

text:
(1) There is hereby created an account within the state treasury to be known as the waste reduction, recycling, and litter control account. Moneys in the account may be spent only after appropriation. Expenditures from the waste reduction, recycling, and litter control account shall be used as follows:
(a) Forty percent to the department of ecology, primarily for use by the departments of ecology, natural resources, revenue, transportation, and corrections, and the parks and recreation commission, for litter collection programs under RCW 70A.200.170. The amount to the department of ecology shall also be used for a central coordination function for litter control efforts statewide; to support employment of youth in litter cleanup as intended in RCW 70A.200.020, and for litter pick up using other authorized agencies; and for statewide public awareness programs under RCW 70A.200.150(7). The amount to the department shall also be used to defray the costs of administering the funding, coordination, and oversight of local government programs for waste reduction, litter control, recycling, and composting so that local governments can apply one hundred percent of their funding to achieving program goals. The amount to the department of revenue shall be used to enforce compliance with the litter tax imposed in chapter 82.19 RCW;
(b)(i) Twenty percent to the department for local government funding programs for waste reduction, litter control, recycling activities, and composting activities by cities and counties under RCW 70A.200.190, to be administered by the department of ecology; (ii) any unspent funds under (b)(i) of this subsection may be used to create and pay for a matching fund competitive grant program to be used by local governments for the development and implementation of contamination reduction and outreach plans for inclusion in comprehensive solid waste management plans or by local governments and nonprofit organizations for local or statewide education programs designed to help the public with litter control, waste reduction, recycling, and composting of primarily the products taxed under chapter 82.19 RCW. Recipients under this subsection include programs to reduce wasted food and food waste that are designed to achieve the goals established in RCW 70A.205.715(1) and that are consistent with the plan developed in RCW 70A.205.715(3). Grants must adhere to the following requirements: (A) No grant may exceed sixty thousand dollars; (B) grant recipients shall match the grant funding allocated by the department by an amount equal to twenty-five percent of eligible expenses. A local government's share of these costs may be met by cash or contributed services; (C) the obligation of the department to make grant payments is contingent upon the availability of the amount of money appropriated for this subsection (1)(b); and (D) grants are managed under the guidelines for existing grant programs; and
(c) Forty percent to the department of ecology to: (i) Implement activities under RCW 70A.200.150 for waste reduction, recycling, and composting efforts; (ii) provide technical assistance to local governments and commercial businesses to increase recycling markets and recycling and composting programs primarily for the products taxed under chapter 82.19 RCW designed to educate citizens about waste reduction, litter control, and recyclable and compostable products and programs; (iii) increase access to waste reduction, composting, and recycling programs, particularly for food packaging and plastic bags and appropriate composting techniques; and (iv) for programs to reduce wasted food and food waste that are designed to achieve the goals established in RCW 70A.205.715(1) and that are consistent with the plan developed in RCW 70A.205.715(3).
(2) All taxes imposed in RCW 82.19.010 and fines and bail forfeitures collected or received pursuant to this chapter shall be deposited in the waste reduction, recycling, and litter control account and used for the programs under subsection (1) of this section.
(3) Not less than five percent and no more than ten percent of the amount appropriated into the waste reduction, recycling, and litter control account every biennium shall be reserved for capital needs, including the purchase of vehicles for transporting crews and for collecting litter and solid waste. Capital funds shall be distributed among state agencies and local governments according to the same criteria provided in RCW 70A.200.170 for the remainder of the funds, so that the most effective waste reduction, litter control, recycling, and composting programs receive the most funding. The intent of this subsection is to provide funds for the purchase of equipment that will enable the department to account for the greatest return on investment in terms of reaching a zero litter goal.
(4) Funds in the waste reduction, recycling, and litter control account, collected under chapter 82.19 RCW, must be prioritized for the products identified under RCW 82.19.020 solely for the purposes of recycling, composting, and litter collection, reduction, and control programs.
(5) During the 2021-2023 fiscal biennium, Washington State University may use funds in the waste reduction, recycling, and litter control account, collected under chapter 82.19 RCW, to conduct an organic waste study.
(6) During the 2021-2023 fiscal biennium, and as an exception to the distribution of expenditures otherwise required in this section, the department of ecology may use funds in the waste reduction, recycling, and litter control account to continue a series of food waste reduction campaigns, to continue to invest in litter prevention campaigns, to conduct a recycling study, and to increase litter control on state highways.
(7) During the 2025-2027 fiscal biennium, the legislature may appropriate funding for general administrative purposes at the department of ecology. In addition, during the 2025-2027 fiscal biennium, subsection (1)(a), (b), and (c) of this section is suspended.
(8) During the 2025-2027 fiscal biennium, the legislature may direct the state treasurer to make transfers of money in the waste reduction, recycling, and litter control account to the general fund.
[ 2026 c 268 s 936; 2025 c 424 s 976; 2022 c 297 s 963; 2021 c 334 s 987; 2020 c 20 s 1076. Prior: 2019 c 255 s 3; 2019 c 166 s 5; 2015 c 15 s 3; (2015 c 15 s 2 expired June 30, 2019); prior: 2013 2nd sp.s. c 15 s 6; 2013 2nd sp.s. c 4 s 989; 2011 1st sp.s. c 50 s 963; 2010 1st sp.s. c 37 s 945; 2009 c 564 s 950; 2005 c 518 s 939; 1998 c 257 s 5; 1992 c 175 s 8; 1991 sp.s. c 13 s 40; 1985 c 57 s 68; 1983 c 277 s 3; 1971 ex.s. c 307 s 18. Formerly RCW 70.93.180.]
Notes:
Effective date—2026 c 268: See note following RCW 28B.15.210.
Effective date—2025 c 424: See note following RCW 9.46.100.
Effective date—2022 c 297: See note following RCW 43.79.565.
Conflict with federal requirements—Effective date—2021 c 334: See notes following RCW 43.79.555.
Finding—Intent—2019 c 255: See note following RCW 70A.205.715.
Effective date—2019 c 166: See note following RCW 70A.240.010.
Effective date—2017 3rd sp.s. c 1; 2015 c 15 ss 3 and 6: "Sections 3 and 6 of this act take effect June 30, 2019." [ 2017 3rd sp.s. c 1 s 994; 2015 c 15 s 9.]
Expiration date—2017 3rd sp.s. c 1; 2015 c 15 ss 2 and 5: "Sections 2 and 5 of this act expire June 30, 2019." [ 2017 3rd sp.s. c 1 s 993; 2015 c 15 s 8.]
Effective date—Expiration date—2013 2nd sp.s. c 15 ss 5-7: See note following RCW 82.19.040.
Effective dates—2013 2nd sp.s. c 4: See note following RCW 2.68.020.
Effective dates—2011 1st sp.s. c 50: See note following RCW 15.76.115.
Effective date—2010 1st sp.s. c 37: See note following RCW 13.06.050.
Effective date—2009 c 564: See note following RCW 2.68.020.
Effective date—2005 c 518: See note following RCW 28A.600.110.
Effective date—1992 c 175: See RCW 82.19.900.
Effective dates—1991 sp.s. c 13: See note following RCW 18.04.105.
Effective date—1985 c 57: See note following RCW 18.04.105.

catchline: Waste reduction, recycling, and litter control account—Distribution.


doc_type: statute

jurisdiction: wa

title: RCW 70A.200.150

text:
In addition to the foregoing, the department of ecology shall use the moneys from RCW 70A.200.140 of the waste reduction, recycling, and litter control account to:
(1) Serve as the coordinating agency between the various industry organizations seeking to aid in the waste reduction, anti-litter, recycling, and composting efforts;
(2) Serve as the coordinating and administrating agency for all state agencies and local governments receiving funds for waste reduction, litter control, recycling, and composting under this chapter;
(3) Recommend to the governing bodies of all local governments that they adopt ordinances similar to the provisions of this chapter;
(4) Cooperate with all local governments to accomplish coordination of local waste reduction, anti-litter, recycling, and composting efforts;
(5) Encourage, organize, and coordinate all voluntary local waste reduction, anti-litter, and recycling campaigns seeking to focus the attention of the public on the programs of this state to reduce waste, control and remove litter, and foster recycling and composting;
(6) Investigate the availability of, and apply for funds available from any private or public source to be used in the program outlined in this chapter;
(7) Develop statewide programs by working with local governments, payers of the waste reduction, recycling, and litter control tax, and industry organizations that are active in waste reduction, anti-litter, recycling, and composting efforts to:
(a) Increase public awareness of and participation in recycling and composting; and
(b) Stimulate and encourage local private recycling and composting centers, public participation in recycling and composting, and research and development in the field of litter control, and recycling, removal, and disposal of litter-related recycling materials, and composting; and
(8) Provide on the department's website a summary of all waste reduction, litter control, recycling, and composting efforts statewide including those of the department and other state agencies and local governments funded for such programs under this chapter.
[ 2020 c 20 s 1077; 2015 c 15 s 4; 2014 c 76 s 2; 1998 c 257 s 8; 1979 c 94 s 7; 1971 ex.s. c 307 s 20. Formerly RCW 70.93.200.]

license: public-domain-government-work

rule_set: Revised Code of Washington

catchline: Department of ecology—Administration of anti-litter and recycling programs.

code: rcw

unit: section

court: Washington State Legislature


title: RCW 70A.200.160

text:
To aid in the statewide waste reduction, anti-litter, and recycling campaign, the state legislature requests that the payers of the waste reduction, recycling, and litter control tax and the various industry organizations which are active in waste reduction, anti-litter, and recycling efforts provide active cooperation with the department of ecology so that additional effect may be given to the waste reduction, anti-litter, and recycling campaign of the state of Washington.
[ 1998 c 257 s 9; 1979 c 94 s 8; 1971 ex.s. c 307 s 21. Formerly RCW 70.93.210.]

catchline: Waste reduction, anti-litter, and recycling campaign—Industrial cooperation requested.


title: RCW 70A.200.170

text:
(1) The department is the coordinating and administrative agency working with the departments of natural resources, revenue, transportation, and corrections, and the parks and recreation commission in developing a biennial budget request for funds for the various agencies' litter collection programs.
(2) Funds may be used to meet the needs of efficient and effective litter collection and illegal dumping programs identified by the various agencies. The department shall develop criteria for evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of the waste reduction, litter control, and recycling programs being administered by the various agencies listed in RCW 70A.200.140, and shall distribute funds according to the effectiveness and efficiency of those programs. In addition, the department shall approve funding requests for efficient and effective waste reduction, litter control, and recycling programs, provide funds, and monitor the results of all agency programs.
(3) All agencies are responsible for reporting information on their litter collection programs as requested by the department.
(4) The department shall contract with the department of transportation to schedule litter prevention messaging and coordination of litter emphasis patrols with the Washington state patrol. Additionally, the department of transportation may coordinate with the department to conduct litter pickup during scheduled maintenance closures as situations allow.
[ 2021 c 231 s 1; 2020 c 20 s 1078; 2014 c 76 s 3; 1998 c 257 s 6. Formerly RCW 70.93.220.]
Notes:
Short title—2021 c 231: "This act may be known and cited as the welcome to Washington act." [ 2021 c 231 s 3.]

catchline: Litter collection programs—Department of ecology—Coordinating agency—Use of funds—Reporting by agencies.


title: RCW 70A.200.180

text:
Every person convicted of a violation of this chapter for which no penalty is specially provided for shall be punished by a fine of not more than fifty dollars for each such violation.
[ 1983 c 277 s 4; 1971 ex.s. c 307 s 23. Formerly RCW 70.93.230.]

catchline: Violations of chapter—Penalties.


title: RCW 70A.200.190

text:
(1) The department shall provide funding to local units of government to establish, conduct, and evaluate community restitution and other programs for waste reduction, litter and illegal dump cleanup, and recycling. Programs eligible for funding under this section shall include, but not be limited to, programs established pursuant to RCW 72.09.260.
(2) Funds may be offered for costs associated with community waste reduction, litter cleanup and prevention, and recycling activities. The funding program must be flexible, allowing local governments to use funds broadly to meet their needs to reduce waste, control litter and illegal dumping, and promote recycling. Local governments are required to contribute resources or in-kind services. The department shall evaluate funding requests from local government according to the same criteria as those developed in RCW 70A.200.170, provide funds according to the effectiveness and efficiency of local government litter control programs, and monitor the results of all local government programs under this section.
(3) Local governments may initiate and apply to the department for reimbursement of litter clean-up activities on state highway ramps located within the jurisdiction of the local government.
(4) Local governments shall report information as requested by the department in funding agreements entered into by the department and a local government.
[ 2021 c 231 s 2; 2020 c 20 s 1079; 2014 c 76 s 4; 2002 c 175 s 46. Prior: 1998 c 257 s 10; 1998 c 245 s 128; 1990 c 66 s 3. Formerly RCW 70.93.250.]
Notes:
Short title—2021 c 231: See note following RCW 70A.200.170.
Effective date—2002 c 175: See note following RCW 7.80.130.
Findings—Intent—1990 c 66: See note following RCW 72.09.260.

catchline: Funding to local governments—Reports.


title: RCW 70A.200.900

text:
This 1971 amendatory act constitutes an alternative to Initiative 40. The secretary of state is directed to place this 1971 amendatory act on the ballot in conjunction with Initiative 40 at the next general election.
This 1971 amendatory act shall continue in force and effect until the secretary of state certifies the election results on this 1971 amendatory act. If affirmatively approved at the general election, this 1971 amendatory act shall continue in effect thereafter.
[ 1971 ex.s. c 307 s 27. Formerly RCW 70.93.910.]
Notes:
Reviser's note: Chapter 70.93 RCW [1971 ex.s. c 307] was approved and validated at the November 7, 1972, general election as Alternative Initiative Measure 40B. Chapter 70.93 RCW was recodified as chapter 70A.200 RCW pursuant to 2020 c 20 s 2009.

catchline: Alternative to Initiative 40—Placement on ballot—Force and effect of chapter.


title: RCW 70A.205.005

text:
The legislature finds:
(1) Continuing technological changes in methods of manufacture, packaging, and marketing of consumer products, together with the economic and population growth of this state, the rising affluence of its citizens, and its expanding industrial activity have created new and ever-mounting problems involving disposal of garbage, refuse, and solid waste materials resulting from domestic, agricultural, and industrial activities.
(2) Traditional methods of disposing of solid wastes in this state are no longer adequate to meet the ever-increasing problem. Improper methods and practices of handling and disposal of solid wastes pollute our land, air and water resources, blight our countryside, adversely affect land values, and damage the overall quality of our environment.
(3) Considerations of natural resource limitations, energy shortages, economics and the environment make necessary the development and implementation of solid waste recovery and/or recycling plans and programs.
(4) Waste reduction must become a fundamental strategy of solid waste management. It is therefore necessary to change manufacturing and purchasing practices and waste generation behaviors to reduce the amount of waste that becomes a governmental responsibility.
(5) Source separation of waste must become a fundamental strategy of solid waste management. Collection and handling strategies should have, as an ultimate goal, the source separation of all materials with resource value or environmental hazard.
(6)(a) It should be the goal of every person and business to minimize their production of wastes and to separate recyclable or hazardous materials from mixed waste.
(b) It is the responsibility of state, county, and city governments to provide for a waste management infrastructure to fully implement waste reduction and source separation strategies and to process and dispose of remaining wastes in a manner that is environmentally safe and economically sound. It is further the responsibility of state, county, and city governments to monitor the cost-effectiveness and environmental safety of combusting separated waste, processing mixed municipal solid waste, and recycling programs.
(c) It is the responsibility of county and city governments to assume primary responsibility for solid waste management and to develop and implement aggressive and effective waste reduction and source separation strategies.
(d) It is the responsibility of state government to ensure that local governments are providing adequate source reduction and separation opportunities and incentives to all, including persons in both rural and urban areas, and nonresidential waste generators such as commercial, industrial, and institutional entities, recognizing the need to provide flexibility to accommodate differing population densities, distances to and availability of recycling markets, and collection and disposal costs in each community; and to provide county and city governments with adequate technical resources to accomplish this responsibility.
(7) Environmental and economic considerations in solving the state's solid waste management problems requires strong consideration by local governments of regional solutions and intergovernmental cooperation.
(8) The following priorities for the collection, handling, and management of solid waste are necessary and should be followed in descending order as applicable:
(a) Waste reduction;
(b) Recycling, with source separation of recyclable materials as the preferred method;
(c) Energy recovery, incineration, or landfill of separated waste;
(d) Energy recovery, incineration, or landfill of mixed municipal solid wastes.
(9) It is the state's goal to achieve a fifty percent recycling rate by 2007.
(10) It is the state's goal that programs be established to eliminate residential or commercial yard debris in landfills by 2012 in those areas where alternatives to disposal are readily available and effective.
(11) Steps should be taken to make recycling at least as affordable and convenient to the ratepayer as mixed waste disposal.
(12) It is necessary to compile and maintain adequate data on the types and quantities of solid waste that are being generated and to monitor how the various types of solid waste are being managed.
(13) Vehicle batteries should be recycled and the disposal of vehicle batteries into landfills or incinerators should be discontinued.
(14) Excessive and nonrecyclable packaging of products should be avoided.
(15) Comprehensive education should be conducted throughout the state so that people are informed of the need to reduce, source separate, and recycle solid waste.
(16) All governmental entities in the state should set an example by implementing aggressive waste reduction and recycling programs at their workplaces and by purchasing products that are made from recycled materials and are recyclable.
(17) To ensure the safe and efficient operations of solid waste disposal facilities, it is necessary for operators and regulators of landfills and incinerators to receive training and certification.
(18) It is necessary to provide adequate funding to all levels of government so that successful waste reduction and recycling programs can be implemented.
(19) The development of stable and expanding markets for recyclable materials is critical to the long-term success of the state's recycling goals. Market development must be encouraged on a state, regional, and national basis to maximize its effectiveness. The state shall assume primary responsibility for the development of a multifaceted market development program to carry out the purposes of chapter 431, Laws of 1989.
(20) There is an imperative need to anticipate, plan for, and accomplish effective storage, control, recovery, and recycling of discarded tires and other problem wastes with the subsequent conservation of resources and energy.
[ 2002 c 299 s 3; 1989 c 431 s 1; 1985 c 345 s 1; 1984 c 123 s 1; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 41 s 1; 1969 ex.s. c 134 s 1. Formerly RCW 70.95.010.]

catchline: Legislative finding—Priorities—Goals.


title: RCW 70A.205.007

text:
(1)(a) The state establishes a goal for the landfill disposal of organic materials at a level representing a 75 percent reduction by 2030 in the statewide disposal of organic material waste, relative to 2015 levels.
(b) The state establishes a goal that no less than 20 percent of the volume of edible food that was disposed of as of 2015 be recovered for human consumption by 2025.
(2) The provisions of subsection (1) of this section are in addition to the food waste reduction goals of RCW 70A.205.715(1).
[ 2022 c 180 s 101.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—2022 c 180: "(1) The legislature finds that landfills are a significant source of emissions of methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Among other economic and environmental benefits, the diversion of organic materials to productive uses will reduce methane emissions.
(2) In order to reduce methane emissions associated with organic materials, the legislature finds that it will be beneficial to improve a variety of aspects of how organic materials and organic material wastes are reduced, managed, incentivized, and regulated under state law. Therefore, it is the intent of the legislature to support the diversion of organic materials from landfills through a variety of interventions to support productive uses of organic material wastes, including by:
(a) Requiring some local governments to begin providing separated organic material collection services within their jurisdictions in order to increase volumes of organic materials collected and delivered to composting and other organic material management facilities and reduce the volumes of organic materials collected in conjunction with other solid waste and delivered to landfills;
(b) Requiring local governments to consider state organic material management goals and requirements in the development of their local solid waste plans;
(c) Requiring some businesses to manage their organic material wastes in a manner that does not involve landfilling them, in order to address one significant source of organic materials that currently frequently end up in landfills;
(d) Reducing legal liability risk barriers to the donation of edible food in order to encourage the recovery of foods that might otherwise be landfilled;
(e) Establishing the Washington center for sustainable food management within the department of ecology in order to coordinate and improve statewide food waste reduction and diversion efforts;
(f) Establishing various new funding and financial incentives intended to increase composting and other forms of productive organic materials management, helping to make the responsible management of organic materials more cost-competitive with landfilling of organic material wastes;
(g) Facilitating the siting of organic material management facilities in order to ensure that adequate capacity exists to process organic materials at the volumes necessary to achieve state organic material diversion goals;
(h) Encouraging cities and counties to procure more of the compost and finished products created from their organic material wastes in order to support the economic viability of processes to turn organic materials into finished products, and increasing the likelihood that composting and other responsible organic material management options are economically viable; and
(i) Amending standards related to the labeling of plastic and compostable products in order to reduce contamination of the waste streams handled by compost and organic material management facilities and improve the economic viability of those responsible organic material management options." [ 2022 c 180 s 1.]
Scope of authority of chapter 180, Laws of 2022—2022 c 180: "Nothing in this act changes or limits the authority of the Washington utilities and transportation commission to regulate the collection of solid waste, including curbside collection of residential recyclable materials, nor does this section change or limit the authority of a city or town to provide the service itself or by contract under RCW 81.77.020." [ 2022 c 180 s 902.]

catchline: Landfill disposal of organic materials—Goal.


title: RCW 70A.205.010

text:
The purpose of this chapter is to establish a comprehensive statewide program for solid waste handling, and solid waste recovery and/or recycling which will prevent land, air, and water pollution and conserve the natural, economic, and energy resources of this state. To this end it is the purpose of this chapter:
(1) To assign primary responsibility for adequate solid waste handling to local government, reserving to the state, however, those functions necessary to assure effective programs throughout the state;
(2) To provide for adequate planning for solid waste handling by local government;
(3) To provide for the adoption and enforcement of basic minimum performance standards for solid waste handling, including that all sites where recyclable materials are generated and transported from shall provide a separate container for solid waste;
(4) To encourage the development and operation of waste recycling facilities needed to accomplish the management priority of waste recycling, to promote consistency in the requirements for such facilities throughout the state, and to ensure that recyclable materials diverted from the waste stream for recycling are routed to facilities in which recycling occurs;
(5) To provide technical and financial assistance to local governments in the planning, development, and conduct of solid waste handling programs;
(6) To encourage storage, proper disposal, and recycling of discarded vehicle tires and to stimulate private recycling programs throughout the state; and
(7) To encourage the development and operation of waste recycling facilities and activities needed to accomplish the management priority of waste recycling and to promote consistency in the permitting requirements for such facilities and activities throughout the state.
It is the intent of the legislature that local governments be encouraged to use the expertise of private industry and to contract with private industry to the fullest extent possible to carry out solid waste recovery and/or recycling programs.
[ 2005 c 394 s 2. Prior: 1998 c 156 s 1; 1998 c 90 s 1; 1985 c 345 s 2; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 41 s 2; 1969 ex.s. c 134 s 2. Formerly RCW 70.95.020.]
Notes:
Intent—Severability—2005 c 394: See notes following RCW 70A.205.300.

catchline: Purpose.


title: RCW 70A.205.015

text:
The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(1) "City" means every incorporated city and town.
(2) "Commission" means the utilities and transportation commission.
(3) "Composted material" means organic solid waste that has been subjected to controlled aerobic degradation at a solid waste facility in compliance with the requirements of this chapter. Natural decay of organic solid waste under uncontrolled conditions does not result in composted material.
(4) "Department" means the department of ecology.
(5) "Director" means the director of the department of ecology.
(6) "Disposal site" means the location where any final treatment, utilization, processing, or deposit of solid waste occurs.
(7) "Energy recovery" means a process operating under federal and state environmental laws and regulations for converting solid waste into usable energy and for reducing the volume of solid waste.
(8) "Functional standards" means criteria for solid waste handling expressed in terms of expected performance or solid waste handling functions.
(9) "Incineration" means a process of reducing the volume of solid waste operating under federal and state environmental laws and regulations by use of an enclosed device using controlled flame combustion.
(10) "Inert waste landfill" means a landfill that receives only inert waste, as determined under RCW 70A.205.030, and includes facilities that use inert wastes as a component of fill.
(11) "Jurisdictional health department" means city, county, city-county, or district public health department.
(12) "Landfill" means a disposal facility or part of a facility at which solid waste is placed in or on land and which is not a land treatment facility.
(13) "Local government" means a city, town, or county.
(14) "Modify" means to substantially change the design or operational plans including, but not limited to, removal of a design element previously set forth in a permit application or the addition of a disposal or processing activity that is not approved in the permit.
(15) "Multiple-family residence" means any structure housing two or more dwelling units.
(16)(a)(i) "Organic materials" means any solid waste that is a biological substance of plant or animal origin capable of microbial degradation.
(ii) Organic materials include, but are not limited to, manure, yard debris, food waste, food processing waste, wood waste, and garden waste.
(b) "Organic materials" does not include any materials contaminated by herbicides, pesticides, pests, or other sources of chemical or biological contamination that would render a finished product of an organic material management process unsuitable for general public or agricultural use.
(17) "Organic materials management" means management of organic materials through composting, anaerobic digestion, vermiculture, black soldier fly, or similar technologies.
(18) "Person" means individual, firm, association, copartnership, political subdivision, government agency, municipality, industry, public or private corporation, or any other entity whatsoever.
(19) "Recyclable materials" means those solid wastes that are separated for recycling or reuse, such as papers, metals, and glass, that are identified as recyclable material pursuant to a local comprehensive solid waste plan. Prior to the adoption of the local comprehensive solid waste plan, adopted pursuant to RCW 70A.205.075(2), local governments may identify recyclable materials by ordinance from July 23, 1989.
(20) "Recycling" means transforming or remanufacturing waste materials into usable or marketable materials for use other than landfill disposal or incineration.
(21) "Residence" means the regular dwelling place of an individual or individuals.
(22) "Sewage sludge" means a semisolid substance consisting of settled sewage solids combined with varying amounts of water and dissolved materials, generated from a wastewater treatment system, that does not meet the requirements of chapter 70A.226 RCW.
(23) "Soil amendment" means any substance that is intended to improve the physical characteristics of the soil, except composted material, commercial fertilizers, agricultural liming agents, unmanipulated animal manures, unmanipulated vegetable manures, food wastes, food processing wastes, and materials exempted by rule of the department, such as biosolids as defined in chapter 70A.226 RCW and wastewater as regulated in chapter 90.48 RCW.
(24) "Solid waste" or "wastes" means all putrescible and nonputrescible solid and semisolid wastes including, but not limited to, garbage, rubbish, ashes, industrial wastes, swill, sewage sludge, demolition and construction wastes, abandoned vehicles or parts thereof, and recyclable materials.
(25) "Solid waste handling" means the management, storage, collection, transportation, treatment, utilization, processing, and final disposal of solid wastes, including the recovery and recycling of materials from solid wastes, the recovery of energy resources from solid wastes or the conversion of the energy in solid wastes to more useful forms or combinations thereof.
(26) "Source separation" means the separation of different kinds of solid waste at the place where the waste originates.
(27) "Vehicle" includes every device physically capable of being moved upon a public or private highway, road, street, or watercourse and in, upon, or by which any person or property is or may be transported or drawn upon a public or private highway, road, street, or watercourse, except devices moved by human or animal power or used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks.
(28) "Waste-derived soil amendment" means any soil amendment as defined in this chapter that is derived from solid waste as defined in this section, but does not include biosolids or biosolids products regulated under chapter 70A.226 RCW or wastewaters regulated under chapter 90.48 RCW.
(29) "Waste reduction" means reducing the amount or toxicity of waste generated or reusing materials.
(30) "Yard debris" means plant material commonly created in the course of maintaining yards and gardens, and through horticulture, gardening, landscaping, or similar activities. Yard debris includes but is not limited to grass clippings, leaves, branches, brush, weeds, flowers, roots, windfall fruit, vegetable garden debris, holiday trees, and tree prunings four inches or less in diameter.
[ 2022 c 180 s 105; 2020 c 20 s 1161; 2010 1st sp.s. c 7 s 86; 2004 c 101 s 1; 2002 c 299 s 4; 1998 c 36 s 17; 1997 c 213 s 1; 1992 c 174 s 16; 1991 c 298 s 2; 1989 c 431 s 2; 1985 c 345 s 3; 1984 c 123 s 2; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 41 s 3; 1970 ex.s. c 62 s 60; 1969 ex.s. c 134 s 3. Formerly RCW 70.95.030.]
Notes:
Reviser's note: The definitions in this section have been alphabetized pursuant to RCW 1.08.015(2)(k).
Findings—Intent—Scope of authority of chapter 180, Laws of 2022—2022 c 180: See notes following RCW 70A.205.007.
Effective date—2010 1st sp.s. c 26; 2010 1st sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 43.03.027.
Intent—1998 c 36: See RCW 15.54.265.
Short title—1998 c 36: See note following RCW 15.54.265.
Finding—1991 c 298: "The legislature finds that curbside recycling services should be provided in multiple-family residences. The county and city comprehensive solid waste management plans should include provisions for such service." [ 1991 c 298 s 1.]
Solid waste disposal—Powers and duties of state board of health as to environmental contaminants: RCW 43.20.050.

catchline: Definitions.


title: RCW 70A.205.020

text:
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any legal requirement under this chapter, including any standard, limitation, rule, or order is superseded and replaced in accordance with the terms and provisions of an environmental excellence program agreement, entered into under chapter 43.21K RCW.
[ 1997 c 381 s 22. Formerly RCW 70.95.055.]
Notes:
Purpose—1997 c 381: See RCW 43.21K.005.

catchline: Environmental excellence program agreements—Effect on chapter.


title: RCW 70A.205.025

text:
(1) The department shall adopt rules establishing minimum functional standards for solid waste handling, consistent with the standards specified in this section. The department may classify areas of the state with respect to population density, climate, geology, status under a quarantine as defined in RCW 17.24.007, and other relevant factors bearing on solid waste disposal standards.
(2) In addition to the minimum functional standards adopted by the department under subsection (1) of this section, each landfill facility whose area at its design capacity will exceed one hundred acres and whose horizontal height at design capacity will average one hundred feet or more above existing site elevations shall comply with the standards of this subsection. This subsection applies only to wholly new solid waste landfill facilities, no part or unit of which has had construction commence before April 27, 1999.
(a) No landfill specified in this subsection may be located:
(i) So that the active area is closer than five miles to any national park or a public or private nonprofit zoological park displaying native animals in their native habitats; or
(ii) Over a sole source aquifer designated under the federal safe drinking water act, if such designation was effective before January 1, 1999.
(b) Each landfill specified in this subsection (2) shall be constructed with an impermeable berm around the entire perimeter of the active area of the landfill of such height, thickness, and design as will be sufficient to contain all material disposed in the event of a complete failure of the structural integrity of the landfill.
[ 2016 c 119 s 1; 1999 c 116 s 1; 1969 ex.s. c 134 s 6. Formerly RCW 70.95.060.]
Notes:
Effective date—1999 c 116: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [April 27, 1999]." [ 1999 c 116 s 2.]

catchline: Standards for solid waste handling—Areas—Landfill location.


title: RCW 70A.205.030

text:
(1) The department shall, as part of the minimum functional standards for solid waste handling required under RCW 70A.205.025, develop specific criteria for the types of solid wastes that are allowed to be received by inert waste landfills that seek to continue operation after February 10, 2003.
(2) The criteria for inert waste developed under this section must, at a minimum, contain a list of substances that an inert waste landfill located in a county with fewer than forty-five thousand residents is permitted to receive if it was operational before February 10, 2003, and is located at a site with a five-year annual rainfall of twenty-five inches or less. The substances permitted for the inert waste landfills satisfying the criteria listed in this subsection must include the following types of solid waste if the waste has not been tainted, through exposure from chemical, physical, biological, or radiological substances, such that it presents a threat to human health or the environment greater than that inherent to the material:
(a) Cured concrete, including any embedded steel reinforcing and wood;
(b) Asphaltic materials, including road construction asphalt;
(c) Brick and masonry;
(d) Ceramic materials produced from fired clay or porcelain;
(e) Glass;
(f) Stainless steel and aluminum; and
(g) Other materials as defined in chapter 173-350 WAC.
(3) The department shall work with the owner or operators of landfills that do not meet the minimum functional standards for inert waste landfills to explore and implement appropriate means of transition into a limited purpose landfill that is able to accept additional materials as specified in WAC 173-350-400.
[ 2020 c 20 s 1162; 2004 c 101 s 2. Formerly RCW 70.95.065.]

catchline: Inert waste landfills.


title: RCW 70A.205.035

text:
In order to implement the minimum functional standards for solid waste handling, evaluate the effectiveness of the minimum functional standards, evaluate the cost of implementation, and develop a mechanism to finance the implementation, the department shall prepare:
(1) An assessment of local health agencies' information on all existing permitted landfill sites, including (a) measures taken and facilities installed at each landfill to mitigate surface water and groundwater contamination, (b) proposed measures taken and facilities to be constructed at each landfill to mitigate surface water and groundwater contamination, and (c) the costs of such measures and facilities;
(2) An analysis of the effectiveness of the minimum functional standards for new landfills in lessening surface water and groundwater contamination, and a comparison with the effectiveness of the prior standards;
(3) An analysis of the costs of conforming with the new functional standards for new landfills compared with the costs of conforming to the prior standards; and
(4) Proposals for methods of financing the costs of conforming with the new functional standards.
[ 1986 c 81 s 1. Formerly RCW 70.95.075.]


title: RCW 70A.205.040

text:
(1) Each county within the state, in cooperation with the various cities located within such county, shall prepare a coordinated, comprehensive solid waste management plan. Such plan may cover two or more counties. The purpose is to plan for solid waste and materials reduction, collection, and handling and management services and programs throughout the state, as designed to meet the unique needs of each county and city in the state. When updating a solid waste management plan developed under this chapter, after June 10, 2010, local comprehensive plans must consider and plan for the following handling methods or services:
(a) Source separation of recyclable materials and products, organic materials, and wastes by generators;
(b) Collection of source separated materials;
(c) Handling and proper preparation of materials for reuse or recycling;
(d) Handling and proper preparation of organic materials for organic materials management; and
(e) Handling and proper disposal of nonrecyclable wastes.
(2) When updating a solid waste management plan developed under this chapter, after June 10, 2010, each local comprehensive plan must, at a minimum, consider methods that will be used to address the following:
(a) Construction and demolition waste for recycling or reuse;
(b) Organic material including yard debris, food waste, and food contaminated paper products for organic materials management;
(c) Recoverable paper products for recycling;
(d) Metals, glass, and plastics for recycling; and
(e) Waste reduction strategies.
(3)(a) When newly developing, updating, or amending a comprehensive solid waste management plan developed under this chapter, after July 1, 2024, each local comprehensive solid waste management plan must consider the transition to the requirements of RCW 70A.205.540, and each comprehensive solid waste management plan implemented by a county must identify:
(i) The priority areas within the county for the establishment of organic materials management facilities. Priority areas must be in industrial zones, agricultural zones, or rural zones, and may not be located in overburdened communities identified by the department of ecology under chapter 70A.02 RCW. Priority areas should be designated with an attempt to minimize incompatible uses and potential impacts on residential areas; and
(ii) Organic materials management facility volumetric capacity required to manage the county's organic materials in a manner consistent with the goals of RCW 70A.205.007.
(b) When newly developing, updating, or amending a comprehensive solid waste management plan developed under this chapter, after January 1, 2027, each local comprehensive solid waste management plan must be consistent with the requirements of RCW 70A.205.540.
(c)(i) Notwithstanding (a) and (b) of this subsection, and except as provided in (c)(ii) of this subsection, a jurisdiction implementing a local comprehensive solid waste management plan under this chapter may not site the increase or expansion of any existing organic materials management facility that processed more than 200,000 tons of material, relative to 2019 levels.
(ii) The limitation in (c)(i) of this subsection does not apply to the siting of any anaerobic digester or anaerobic digestion facility.
(4) Each city shall:
(a) Prepare and deliver to the county auditor of the county in which it is located its plan for its own solid waste management for integration into the comprehensive county plan;
(b) Enter into an agreement with the county pursuant to which the city shall participate in preparing a joint city-county plan for solid waste management; or
(c) Authorize the county to prepare a plan for the city's solid waste management for inclusion in the comprehensive county plan.
(5) Two or more cities may prepare a plan for inclusion in the county plan. With prior notification of its home county of its intent, a city in one county may enter into an agreement with a city in an adjoining county, or with an adjoining county, or both, to prepare a joint plan for solid waste management to become part of the comprehensive plan of both counties.
(6) After consultation with representatives of the cities and counties, the department shall establish a schedule for the development of the comprehensive plans for solid waste management. In preparing such a schedule, the department shall take into account the probable cost of such plans to the cities and counties.
(7) Local governments shall not be required to include a hazardous waste element in their solid waste management plans.
[ 2022 c 180 s 103; 2010 c 154 s 2; 1985 c 448 s 17; 1969 ex.s. c 134 s 8. Formerly RCW 70.95.080.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—Scope of authority of chapter 180, Laws of 2022—2022 c 180: See notes following RCW 70A.205.007.
Intent—2010 c 154: "Increasing available residential curbside service for solid waste, recyclable, and compostable materials provides enumerable public benefits for all of Washington. Not only will increased service provide better systemwide efficiency, but it will also result in job creation, pollution reduction, and energy conservation, all of which serve to improve the quality of life in Washington communities.
It is therefore the intent of the legislature that Washington strive[s] to significantly increase current residential recycling rates by 2020." [ 2010 c 154 s 1.]
Scope of authority—2010 c 154: "Nothing in this act changes or limits the authority of the Washington utilities and transportation commission to regulate collection of solid waste, including curbside collection of residential recyclable materials, nor does this act change or limit the authority of a city or town to provide such service itself or by contract under RCW 81.77.020." [ 2010 c 154 s 5.]
Severability—1985 c 448: See note following RCW 70A.300.005.

catchline: County comprehensive solid waste management plan—Joint plans—Requirements when updating—Duties of cities.


title: RCW 70A.205.045

text:
Each county and city comprehensive solid waste management plan shall include the following:
(1) A detailed inventory and description of all existing solid waste handling facilities including an inventory of any deficiencies in meeting current solid waste handling needs.
(2) The estimated long-range needs for solid waste handling facilities projected 20 years into the future.
(3) A program for the orderly development of solid waste handling facilities in a manner consistent with the plans for the entire county which shall:
(a) Meet the minimum functional standards for solid waste handling adopted by the department and all laws and regulations relating to air and water pollution, fire prevention, flood control, and protection of public health;
(b) Take into account the comprehensive land use plan of each jurisdiction;
(c) Contain a six year construction and capital acquisition program for solid waste handling facilities; and
(d) Contain a plan for financing both capital costs and operational expenditures of the proposed solid waste management system.
(4) A program for surveillance and control.
(5) A current inventory and description of solid waste collection needs and operations within each respective jurisdiction which shall include:
(a) Any franchise for solid waste collection granted by the utilities and transportation commission in the respective jurisdictions including the name of the holder of the franchise and the address of his or her place of business and the area covered by the franchise;
(b) Any city solid waste operation within the county and the boundaries of such operation;
(c) The population density of each area serviced by a city operation or by a franchised operation within the respective jurisdictions;
(d) The projected solid waste collection needs for the respective jurisdictions for the next six years.
(6) A comprehensive waste reduction and recycling element that, in accordance with the priorities established in RCW 70A.205.005, provides programs that (a) reduce the amount of waste generated, (b) provide incentives and mechanisms for source separation, and (c) establish recycling opportunities for the source separated waste.
(7) The waste reduction and recycling element shall include the following:
(a) Waste reduction strategies, which may include strategies to reduce wasted food and food waste that are designed to achieve the goals established in RCW 70A.205.715(1) and that are consistent with the plan developed in RCW 70A.205.715(3);
(b) Source separation strategies, including:
(i) Programs for the collection of source separated materials from residences.
(A) Until January 1, 2030, these programs shall include collection of source separated recyclable materials from single and multiple-family residences, in urban areas, unless the department approves an alternative program, according to the criteria in the planning guidelines. Such criteria shall include: Anticipated recovery rates and levels of public participation, availability of environmentally sound disposal capacity, access to markets for recyclable materials, unreasonable cost impacts on the ratepayer over the six-year planning period, utilization of environmentally sound waste reduction and recycling technologies, and other factors as appropriate. In rural areas, these programs shall include but not be limited to drop-off boxes, buy-back centers, or a combination of both, at each solid waste transfer, processing, or disposal site, or at locations convenient to the residents of the county. The drop-off boxes and buy-back centers may be owned or operated by public, nonprofit, or private persons;
(B) Except as provided in (b)(i)(C) of this subsection, beginning January 1, 2030, these programs shall:
(I) Provide curbside collection of source separated recyclable materials from single-family and multiple-family residences wherever curbside garbage collection services are provided to these entities;
(II) Include materials on the statewide collection list designated for residential collection established by the department; and
(III) Include service standards for curbside collection frequency, container size, and method of collection, established under plans approved by the department under chapter 70A.208 RCW;
(C) A county may, by ordinance, direct that the full list of materials on the statewide collection list identified as suitable for residential collection be collected exclusively through drop-off locations in areas regulated by the utilities and transportation commission under the provisions of chapter 81.77 RCW if the areas were designated as rural in the county solid waste management plan and no curbside recycling collection service was offered within those areas as of January 1, 2025. Where a county has adopted such an ordinance, the provisions of (b)(i)(B) of this subsection do not apply;
(D) Comprehensive solid waste management plans may incorporate by reference programs described in an approved producer responsibility organization plan under chapter 70A.208 RCW to fulfill the requirements of this subsection (7)(b)(i) in whole or in part;
(E) Before January 1, 2030, each comprehensive solid waste management plan must be amended, revised, or updated by a jurisdiction consistent with the requirements of this subsection (7)(b)(i). If a comprehensive solid waste management plan has not been amended, revised, or updated before January 1, 2030, to be consistent with the requirements of this subsection (7)(b)(i), beginning January 1, 2030, the model comprehensive solid waste plan amendment provided by the department under RCW 70A.208.060 applies in the jurisdiction;
(ii) Programs to monitor the collection of source separated waste at nonresidential sites where there is sufficient density to sustain a program;
(iii) Programs to collect yard waste and food waste, if the county or city submitting the plan finds that there are adequate markets or capacity for composted yard waste and food waste within or near the service area to consume the majority of the material collected; and
(iv) Programs to educate and promote the concepts of waste reduction, refill, reuse, and recycling;
(c) Recycling strategies for materials not covered under chapter 70A.208 RCW, including a description of markets for recyclables, a review of waste generation trends, a description of waste composition, a discussion and description of existing programs and any additional programs needed to assist public and private sector recycling, and an implementation schedule for the designation of specific materials to be collected for recycling, and for the provision of recycling collection services;
(d) Other information the county or city submitting the plan determines is necessary.
(8) An assessment of the plan's impact on the costs of solid waste collection. The assessment shall be prepared in conformance with guidelines established by the utilities and transportation commission. The commission shall cooperate with the Washington state association of counties and the association of Washington cities in establishing such guidelines.
(9) A review of potential areas that meet the criteria as outlined in RCW 70A.205.110.
(10) A contamination reduction and outreach plan. The contamination reduction and outreach plan must address reducing contamination in recycling. Except for counties with a population of 25,000 or fewer, by July 1, 2021, a contamination reduction and outreach plan must be included in each solid waste management plan by a plan amendment or included when revising or updating a solid waste management plan developed under this chapter. Jurisdictions may adopt the state's contamination reduction and outreach plan as developed under RCW 70A.205.070 or participate in a producer responsibility organization's plan under chapter 70A.208 RCW in lieu of creating their own plan. A recycling contamination reduction and outreach plan must include the following:
(a) A list of actions for reducing contamination in recycling programs for single-family and multiple-family residences, commercial locations, and drop boxes depending on the jurisdictions system components;
(b) A list of key contaminants identified by the jurisdiction or identified by the department;
(c) A discussion of problem contaminants and the contaminants' impact on the collection system;
(d) An analysis of the costs and other impacts associated with contaminants to the recycling system; and
(e) An implementation schedule and details of how outreach is to be conducted. Contamination reduction education methods may include sharing community-wide messaging through newsletters, articles, mailers, social media, websites, or community events, informing recycling drop box customers about contamination, and improving signage.
[ 2025 c 316 s 201; 2020 c 20 s 1163. Prior: 2019 c 255 s 4; 2019 c 166 s 6; 1991 c 298 s 3; 1989 c 431 s 3; 1984 c 123 s 5; 1971 ex.s. c 293 s 1; 1969 ex.s. c 134 s 9. Formerly RCW 70.95.090.]
Notes:
Finding—Intent—2019 c 255: See note following RCW 70A.205.715.
Effective date—2019 c 166: See note following RCW 70A.240.010.
Finding—1991 c 298: See note following RCW 70A.205.015.
Certain provisions not to detract from utilities and transportation commission powers, duties, and functions: RCW 80.01.300.

catchline: County and city comprehensive solid waste management plans—Contents.


title: RCW 70A.205.050

text:
Levels of service shall be defined in the waste reduction and recycling element of each local comprehensive solid waste management plan and shall include the services set forth in RCW 70A.205.045. In determining which service level is provided to residential and nonresidential waste generators in each community, counties and cities shall develop clear criteria for designating areas as urban or rural. In designating urban areas, local governments shall consider the planning guidelines adopted by the department, total population, population density, and any applicable land use or utility service plans.
[ 2020 c 20 s 1164; 1989 c 431 s 4. Formerly RCW 70.95.092.]

catchline: County and city comprehensive solid waste management plans—Levels of service, reduction and recycling.


title: RCW 70A.205.055

text:
(1) The department and local governments preparing plans are encouraged to work cooperatively during plan development. Each county and city preparing a comprehensive solid waste management plan shall submit a preliminary draft plan to the department for technical review. The department shall review and comment on the draft plan within one hundred twenty days of receipt. The department's comments shall state specific actions or revisions that must be completed for plan approval.
(2) Each final draft solid waste management plan shall be submitted to the department for approval. The department will limit its comments on the final draft plans to those issues identified during its review of the draft plan and any other changes made between submittal of the preliminary draft and final draft plans. Disapproval of the local comprehensive solid waste management plan shall be supported by specific findings. A final draft plan shall be deemed approved if the department does not disapprove it within forty-five days of receipt.
(3) If the department disapproves a plan or any plan amendments, the submitting entity may appeal the decision to the pollution control hearings board as provided in RCW 43.21B.230. The appeal shall be limited to review of the specific findings which supported the disapproval under subsection (2) of this section.
[ 2010 c 210 s 17; 1989 c 431 s 8. Formerly RCW 70.95.094.]
Notes:
Intent—Effective dates—Application—Pending cases and rules—2010 c 210: See notes following RCW 43.21B.001.

catchline: County and city comprehensive solid waste management plans—Review and approval process.


title: RCW 70A.205.060

text:
Upon receipt by the department of a preliminary draft plan as provided in RCW 70A.205.055, the department shall immediately provide a copy of the preliminary draft plan to the department of agriculture. Within forty-five days after receiving the preliminary draft plan, the department of agriculture shall review the preliminary draft plan for compliance with chapter 17.24 RCW and the rules adopted under that chapter. The department of agriculture shall advise the local government submitting the preliminary draft plan and the department of the result of the review.
[ 2020 c 20 s 1165; 2016 c 119 s 3. Formerly RCW 70.95.095.]

catchline: County and city comprehensive solid waste management plans—Review by department of agriculture.


title: RCW 70A.205.065

text:
Upon receipt, the department shall immediately provide the utilities and transportation commission with a copy of each preliminary draft local comprehensive solid waste management plan. Within forty-five days after receiving a plan, the commission shall have reviewed the plan's assessment of solid waste collection cost impacts on rates charged by solid waste collection companies regulated under chapter 81.77 RCW and shall advise the county or city submitting the plan and the department of the probable effect of the plan's recommendations on those rates.
[ 1989 c 431 s 12. Formerly RCW 70.95.096.]

catchline: Utilities and transportation commission to review local plan's assessment of cost impacts on rates.


title: RCW 70A.205.070

text:
(1) The department or the commission, as appropriate, shall provide to counties and cities technical assistance including, but not limited to, planning guidelines, in the preparation, review, and revision of solid waste management plans required by this chapter. Guidelines prepared under this section shall be consistent with the provisions of this chapter. Guidelines for the preparation of the waste reduction and recycling element of the comprehensive solid waste management plan shall be completed by the department by March 15, 1990. These guidelines shall provide recommendations to local government on materials to be considered for designation as recyclable materials. The state solid waste management plan prepared pursuant to RCW 70A.205.210 shall be consistent with these guidelines.
(2) The department shall be responsible for development and implementation of a comprehensive statewide public information program designed to encourage waste reduction, source separation, and recycling by the public. The department shall operate a toll-free hotline to provide the public information on waste reduction and recycling.
(3) The department shall provide technical assistance to local governments in the development and dissemination of informational materials and related activities to assure recognition of unique local waste reduction and recycling programs.
(4)(a) The department must create and implement a statewide recycling contamination reduction and outreach plan based on best management practices for recycling, developed with stakeholder input by July 1, 2020. Jurisdictions may use the statewide plan in lieu of developing their own plan.
(b) The department must provide technical assistance and create guidance to help local jurisdictions determine the extent of contamination in their regional recycling and to develop contamination reduction and outreach plans. Contamination means any material not included on the local jurisdiction's acceptance list.
(c) Contamination reduction education methods may include sharing community-wide messaging through newsletters, articles, mailers, social media, websites, or community events, informing recycling drop box customers about contamination, and improving signage.
(d) The department must cite the sources of information that it relied upon, including any peer-reviewed science, in the development of the best management practices for recycling under (a) of this subsection and the guidance developed under (b) of this subsection.
(5) Local governments shall make all materials and information developed with the assistance grants provided under RCW 70A.205.080 available to the department for potential use in other areas of the state.
[ 2020 c 20 s 1166; 2019 c 166 s 7; 1989 c 431 s 6; 1984 c 123 s 6; 1969 ex.s. c 134 s 10. Formerly RCW 70.95.100.]
Notes:
Effective date—2019 c 166: See note following RCW 70A.240.010.

catchline: Technical assistance for plan preparation—Guidelines—Informational materials and programs.


title: RCW 70A.205.075

text:
(1) The comprehensive county solid waste management plans and any comprehensive city solid waste management plans prepared in accordance with RCW 70A.205.040 shall be maintained in a current condition and reviewed and revised periodically by counties and cities as may be required by the department. Upon each review such plans shall be extended to show long-range needs for solid waste handling facilities for twenty years in the future, and a revised construction and capital acquisition program for six years in the future. Each revised solid waste management plan shall be submitted to the department.
Each plan shall be reviewed and revised within five years of July 1, 1984, and thereafter shall be reviewed, and revised if necessary according to the schedule provided in subsection (2) of this section.
(2) Cities and counties preparing solid waste management plans shall submit the waste reduction and recycling element required in RCW 70A.205.045 and any revisions to other elements of its comprehensive solid waste management plan to the department no later than:
(a) July 1, 1991, for class one areas: PROVIDED, That portions relating to multiple-family residences shall be submitted no later than July 1, 1992;
(b) July 1, 1992, for class two areas; and
(c) July 1, 1994, for class three areas.
Thereafter, each plan shall be reviewed and revised, if necessary, at least every five years. Nothing in chapter 431, Laws of 1989 shall prohibit local governments from submitting a plan prior to the dates listed in this subsection.
(3) The classes of areas are defined as follows:
(a) Class one areas are the counties of Spokane, Snohomish, King, Pierce, and Kitsap and all the cities therein.
(b) Class two areas are all other counties located west of the crest of the Cascade mountains and all the cities therein.
(c) Class three areas are the counties east of the crest of the Cascade mountains and all the cities therein, except for Spokane county.
(4) Cities and counties shall begin implementing the programs to collect source separated materials no later than one year following the adoption and approval of the waste reduction and recycling element and these programs shall be fully implemented within two years of approval.
[ 2020 c 20 s 1167; 1991 c 298 s 4; 1989 c 431 s 5; 1984 c 123 s 7; 1969 ex.s. c 134 s 11. Formerly RCW 70.95.110.]
Notes:
Finding—1991 c 298: See note following RCW 70A.205.015.

catchline: Maintenance of plans—Review, revisions—Implementation of source separation programs.


title: RCW 70A.205.080

text:
Any county may apply to the department on a form prescribed thereby for financial aid for the preparation and implementation of the comprehensive county plan for solid waste management required by RCW 70A.205.040, including contamination reduction and outreach plans. Any city electing to prepare an independent city plan, a joint city plan, or a joint county-city plan for solid waste management for inclusion in the county comprehensive plan may apply for financial aid for such purpose through the county. Every city application for financial aid for planning shall be filed with the county auditor and shall be included as a part of the county's application for financial aid. Any city preparing an independent plan shall provide for disposal sites wholly within its jurisdiction.
The department shall allocate to the counties and cities applying for financial aid for planning and implementation, including contamination reduction and outreach plan development and implementation, such funds as may be available pursuant to legislative appropriations or from any federal grants for such purpose.
The department shall determine priorities and allocate available funds among the counties and cities applying for aid according to criteria established by regulations of the department considering population, urban development, environmental effects of waste disposal, existing waste handling practices, and the local justification of their proposed expenditures.
[ 2020 c 20 s 1168; 2019 c 166 s 8; 1969 ex.s. c 134 s 13. Formerly RCW 70.95.130.]
Notes:
Effective date—2019 c 166: See note following RCW 70A.240.010.

catchline: Financial aid to counties and cities.


title: RCW 70A.205.085

text:
Counties and cities shall match their planning aid allocated by the director by an amount not less than twenty-five percent of the estimated cost of such planning. Any federal planning aid made directly to a county or city shall not be considered either a state or local contribution in determining local matching requirements. Counties and cities may meet their share of planning costs by cash and contributed services.
[ 1969 ex.s. c 134 s 14. Formerly RCW 70.95.140.]

catchline: Matching requirements.


title: RCW 70A.205.090

text:
Upon the allocation of planning funds as provided in RCW 70A.205.080, the department shall enter into a contract with each county receiving a planning grant. The contract shall include such provisions as the director may deem necessary to assure the proper expenditure of such funds including allocations made to cities. The sum allocated to a county shall be paid to the treasurer of such county.
[ 2020 c 20 s 1169; 1969 ex.s. c 134 s 15. Formerly RCW 70.95.150.]

catchline: Contracts with counties to assure proper expenditures.


title: RCW 70A.205.100

text:
Each county, or any city, or jurisdictional board of health shall adopt regulations or ordinances governing solid waste handling implementing the comprehensive solid waste management plan covering storage, collection, transportation, treatment, utilization, processing and final disposal including but not limited to the issuance of permits and the establishment of minimum levels and types of service for any aspect of solid waste handling. County regulations or ordinances adopted regarding levels and types of service shall not apply within the limits of any city where the city has by local ordinance determined that the county shall not exercise such powers within the corporate limits of the city. Such regulations or ordinances shall assure that solid waste storage and disposal facilities are located, maintained, and operated in a manner so as properly to protect the public health, prevent air and water pollution, are consistent with the priorities established in RCW 70A.205.005, and avoid the creation of nuisances. Such regulations or ordinances may be more stringent than the minimum functional standards adopted by the department. Regulations or ordinances adopted by counties, cities, or jurisdictional boards of health shall be filed with the department.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to authorize the operation of a solid waste collection system by counties.
[ 2020 c 20 s 1170; 1989 c 431 s 10; 1988 c 127 s 29; 1969 ex.s. c 134 s 16. Formerly RCW 70.95.160.]

catchline: Local board of health regulations to implement the comprehensive plan—Section not to be construed to authorize counties to operate system.


title: RCW 70A.205.105

text:
Any jurisdictional health department and the department of ecology may enter into an agreement providing for the exercise by the department of ecology of any power that is specified in the contract and that is granted to the jurisdictional health department under this chapter. However, the jurisdictional health department shall have the approval of the legislative authority or authorities it serves before entering into any such agreement with the department of ecology.
[ 1989 c 431 s 16. Formerly RCW 70.95.163.]

catchline: Local health departments may contract with the department of ecology.


title: RCW 70A.205.110

text:
(1) Each county or city siting a solid waste disposal facility shall review each potential site for conformance with the standards as set by the department for:
(a) Geology;
(b) Groundwater;
(c) Soil;
(d) Flooding;
(e) Surface water;
(f) Slope;
(g) Cover material;
(h) Capacity;
(i) Climatic factors;
(j) Land use;
(k) Toxic air emissions; and
(l) Other factors as determined by the department.
(2) The standards in subsection (1) of this section shall be designed to use the best available technology to protect the environment and human health, and shall be revised periodically to reflect new technology and information.
(3) Each county shall establish a local solid waste advisory committee to assist in the development of programs and policies concerning solid waste handling and disposal and to review and comment upon proposed rules, policies, or ordinances prior to their adoption. Such committees shall consist of a minimum of nine members and shall represent a balance of interests including, but not limited to, citizens, public interest groups, business, the waste management industry, agriculture, and local elected public officials. The members shall be appointed by the county legislative authority. A county or city shall not apply for funds from the state and local improvements revolving account, Waste Disposal Facilities, 1980, under *RCW 43.83.350, for the preparation, update, or major amendment of a comprehensive solid waste management plan unless the plan or revision has been prepared with the active assistance and participation of a local solid waste advisory committee.
[ 2016 c 119 s 2; 2015 1st sp.s. c 4 s 49; 1989 c 431 s 11; 1984 c 123 s 4. Formerly RCW 70.95.165.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: RCW 43.83.350 was repealed by 2024 c 168 s 2.

catchline: Solid waste disposal facility siting—Site review—Local solid waste advisory committees—Membership.


title: RCW 70A.205.115

text:
(1) Each local solid waste advisory committee shall conduct one or more meetings for the purpose of determining how local private recycling and solid waste collection businesses may participate in the development and implementation of programs to collect source separated materials from residences, and to process and market materials collected for recycling. The meetings shall include local private recycling businesses, private solid waste collection companies operating within the jurisdiction, and the local solid waste planning agencies. The meetings shall be held during the development of the waste reduction and recycling element or no later than one year prior to the date that a jurisdiction is required to submit the element under RCW 70A.205.075(2).
(2) The meeting requirement under subsection (1) of this section shall apply whenever a city or county develops or amends the waste reduction and recycling element required under this chapter. Jurisdictions having approved waste reduction and recycling elements or having initiated a process for the selection of a service provider as of May 21, 1991, do not have to comply with the requirements of subsection (1) of this section until the next revisions to the waste reduction and recycling element are made or required.
(3) After the waste reduction and recycling element is approved by the local legislative authority but before it is submitted to the department for approval, the local solid waste advisory committee shall hold at least one additional meeting to review the element.
(4) For the purpose of this section, "private recycling business" means any private for-profit or private not-for-profit business that engages in the processing and marketing of recyclable materials.
[ 2020 c 20 s 1171; 1991 c 319 s 402. Formerly RCW 70.95.167.]

catchline: Private businesses involvement in source separated materials—Local solid waste advisory committee to examine.


title: RCW 70A.205.120

text:
Except as provided otherwise in RCW 70A.205.260, 70A.205.265, 70A.205.270, 70A.205.275, or 70A.205.290, after approval of the comprehensive solid waste plan by the department no solid waste handling facility or facilities shall be maintained, established, or modified until the county, city, or other person operating such site has obtained a permit pursuant to RCW 70A.205.125 or 70A.205.135.
[ 2020 c 20 s 1172; 2009 c 178 s 4; 1998 c 156 s 3; 1997 c 213 s 2; 1969 ex.s. c 134 s 17. Formerly RCW 70.95.170.]

catchline: Permit for solid waste handling facility—Required.


title: RCW 70A.205.125

text:
(1) Applications for permits to operate a new or modified solid waste handling facility shall be on forms prescribed by the department and shall contain a description of the proposed facilities and operations at the site, plans and specifications for any new or additional facilities to be constructed, and such other information as the jurisdictional health department may deem necessary in order to determine whether the site and solid waste disposal facilities located thereon will comply with local regulations and state rules.
(2) Upon receipt of an application for a permit to establish or modify a solid waste handling facility, the jurisdictional health department shall refer one copy of the application to the department which shall report its findings to the jurisdictional health department. When the application is for a permit to establish or modify a solid waste handling facility located in an area that is not under a quarantine, as defined in RCW 17.24.007, and when the facility will receive material for composting from an area under a quarantine, the jurisdictional health department shall also provide a copy of the application to the department of agriculture. The department of agriculture shall review the application to determine whether it contains information demonstrating that the proposed facility presents a risk of spreading disease, plant pathogens, or pests to areas that are not under a quarantine. For the purposes of this subsection, "composting" means the biological degradation and transformation of organic solid waste under controlled conditions designed to promote aerobic decomposition.
(3) The jurisdictional health department shall investigate every application as may be necessary to determine whether a proposed or modified site and facilities meet all solid waste, air, and other applicable laws and regulations, and conforms with the approved comprehensive solid waste handling plan, and complies with all zoning requirements.
(4) When the jurisdictional health department finds that the permit should be issued, and the department has approved the permit under RCW 70A.205.130(4), the jurisdictional health department shall issue such permit. Every application shall be approved or disapproved within 90 days after its receipt by the jurisdictional health department.
(5) The jurisdictional board of health may establish reasonable fees for permits and renewal of permits. All permit fees collected by the health department shall be deposited in the treasury and to the account from which the health department's operating expenses are paid.
[ 2025 c 311 s 1; 2016 c 119 s 4; 1997 c 213 s 3; 1988 c 127 s 30; 1969 ex.s. c 134 s 18. Formerly RCW 70.95.180.]

catchline: Permit for solid waste handling facility—Applications, fee.


title: RCW 70A.205.130

text:
(1) Except as provided in subsection (4) of this section, every permit issued by a jurisdictional health department under RCW 70A.205.125 shall be reviewed by the department to ensure that the proposed site or facility conforms with:
(a) All applicable laws and regulations including the minimum functional standards for solid waste handling; and
(b) The approved comprehensive solid waste management plan.
(2) The department shall review the permit within 30 days after the issuance of the permit by the jurisdictional health department. For solid waste handling facilities other than landfills, the department may appeal the issuance of the permit by the jurisdictional health department to the pollution control hearings board, as described in chapter 43.21B RCW, for noncompliance with subsection (1)(a) or (b) of this section.
(3) No permit issued pursuant to RCW 70A.205.125 after June 7, 1984, shall be considered valid unless it has been reviewed by the department.
(4)(a) Every permit issued by a jurisdictional health department under RCW 70A.205.125 for landfilling must be reviewed and approved by the department to ensure that the proposed landfill conforms with:
(i) All applicable laws and regulations including the minimum functional standards for solid waste handling; and
(ii) The approved comprehensive solid waste management plan.
(b) The department shall review the permit prior to the issuance of the permit by the jurisdictional health department. The department may only approve a permit that ensures that the landfill conforms with all applicable laws and regulations, including the minimum functional standards for solid waste handling. The department may require a jurisdictional health department to amend the contents of a proposed permit to ensure conformance with applicable laws and regulations, including the minimum functional standards for solid waste handling.
(c) A jurisdictional health department or applicant may appeal the department's denial or amendment of a landfill permit under this section, including the denial of the renewal of a permit, to the pollution control hearings board.
(d) No permit issued under this subsection after August 1, 2027, is considered valid unless it has been approved by the department.
[ 2025 c 311 s 2; 2020 c 20 s 1173; 1984 c 123 s 8. Formerly RCW 70.95.185.]

catchline: Permit for solid waste disposal site or facilities—Review by department—Appeal of issuance—Validity of permits issued after June 7, 1984.


title: RCW 70A.205.135

text:
(1) Every permit for an existing solid waste handling facility issued pursuant to RCW 70A.205.125 shall be renewed at least every five years on a date established by the jurisdictional health department having jurisdiction of the site and as specified in the permit. If a permit is to be renewed for longer than one year, the local jurisdictional health department may hold a public hearing before making such a decision. Prior to renewing a permit, the health department shall conduct a review as it deems necessary to assure that the solid waste handling facility or facilities located on the site continues to meet minimum functional standards of the department, applicable local regulations, and are not in conflict with the approved solid waste management plan. A jurisdictional health department shall approve or disapprove a permit renewal within 45 days of conducting its review. The department shall review and may appeal the renewal of permits for solid waste handling facilities other than landfills as set forth for the approval of permits in RCW 70A.205.130(2). The department must review and approve or disapprove renewal of permits for landfill disposal facilities as set forth in RCW 70A.205.130(4).
(2) The jurisdictional board of health may establish reasonable fees for permits reviewed under this section. All permit fees collected by the health department shall be deposited in the treasury and to the account from which the health department's operating expenses are paid.
[ 2025 c 311 s 3; 2020 c 20 s 1174; 1998 c 156 s 4; 1997 c 213 s 4; 1984 c 123 s 9; 1969 ex.s. c 134 s 19. Formerly RCW 70.95.190.]

catchline: Permit for solid waste handling facility—Renewal—Appeal—Validity of renewal—Review fees.


title: RCW 70A.205.140

text:
Any permit for a solid waste disposal site issued as provided herein shall be subject to suspension at any time the department or the jurisdictional health department determines that the site or the solid waste disposal facilities located on the site are being operated in violation of this chapter, the regulations of the department, the rules of the department of agriculture, or local laws and regulations.
[ 2025 c 311 s 4; 2016 c 119 s 5; 1969 ex.s. c 134 s 20. Formerly RCW 70.95.200.]

catchline: Permit for solid waste disposal site or facilities—Suspension.


title: RCW 70A.205.150

text:
An authorized collector regulated under chapter 69.48 RCW is not required to obtain a permit under RCW 70A.205.120 unless the authorized collector is required to obtain a permit under RCW 70A.205.120 as a consequence of activities that are not directly associated with the collection facility's activities under chapter 69.48 RCW.
[ 2020 c 20 s 1176; 2018 c 196 s 24. Formerly RCW 70.95.207.]

catchline: Exemption from solid waste permit requirements—Medication disposal.


title: RCW 70A.205.155

text:
Whenever the jurisdictional health department denies a permit or suspends a permit for a solid waste disposal site, it shall, upon request of the applicant or holder of the permit, grant a hearing on such denial or suspension within thirty days after the request therefor is made. Notice of the hearing shall be given to all interested parties, including the county or city having jurisdiction over the site and the department. Within thirty days after the hearing, the health officer shall notify the applicant or the holder of the permit in writing of his or her determination and the reasons therefor. Any party aggrieved by such determination may appeal to the pollution control hearings board by filing with the hearings board a notice of appeal within thirty days after receipt of notice of the determination of the health officer. The hearings board shall hold a hearing in accordance with the provisions of the administrative procedure act, chapter 34.05 RCW. If the jurisdictional health department denies a permit renewal or suspends a permit for an operating waste recycling facility that receives waste from more than one city or county, and the applicant or holder of the permit requests a hearing or files an appeal under this section, the permit denial or suspension shall not be effective until the completion of the appeal process under this section, unless the jurisdictional health department declares that continued operation of the waste recycling facility poses a very probable threat to human health and the environment.
[ 2012 c 117 s 411; 1998 c 90 s 3; 1987 c 109 s 21; 1969 ex.s. c 134 s 21. Formerly RCW 70.95.210.]
Notes:
Purpose—Short title—Construction—Rules—Severability—Captions—1987 c 109: See notes following RCW 43.21B.001.


title: RCW 70A.205.160

text:
To provide solid waste collection companies with sufficient time to prepare and submit tariffs and rate filings for public comment and commission approval, the owner or operator of a transfer station, landfill, or facility used to burn solid waste shall provide seventy-five days' notice to solid waste collection companies of any change in tipping fees and disposal rate schedules. The notice period shall begin on the date individual notice to a collection company is delivered to the company or is postmarked.
A collection company may agree to a shorter notice period: PROVIDED, That such agreement by a company shall not affect the notice requirements for rate filings under RCW 81.28.050.
The owner of a transfer station, landfill or facility used to burn solid waste may agree to provide companies with a longer notice period.
"Solid waste collection companies" as used in this section means the companies regulated by the commission pursuant to chapter 81.77 RCW.
[ 1993 c 300 s 3. Formerly RCW 70.95.212.]

catchline: Solid waste collection companies—Notice of changes in tipping fees and disposal rate schedules.


title: RCW 70A.205.165

text:
(1) By July 1, 1987, each holder or applicant of a permit for a landfill disposal facility issued under this chapter shall establish a reserve account to cover the costs of closing the facility in accordance with state and federal regulations. The account shall be designed to ensure that there will be adequate revenue available by the projected date of closure. A landfill disposal facility maintained on private property for the sole use of the entity owning the site and a landfill disposal facility operated and maintained by a government shall not be required to establish a reserve account if, to the satisfaction of the department, the entity or government provides another form of financial assurance adequate to comply with the requirements of this section.
(2) By July 1, 1986, the department shall adopt rules under chapter 34.05 RCW to implement subsection (1) of this section. The department is not required to adopt rules pertaining to other approved forms of financial assurance to cover the costs of closing a landfill disposal facility. The rules shall include but not be limited to:
(a) Methods to estimate closure costs, including postclosure monitoring, pollution prevention measures, and any other procedures required under state and federal regulations;
(b) Methods to ensure that reserve accounts receive adequate funds, including:
(i) Requirements that the reserve account be generated by user fees. However, the department may waive this requirement for existing landfills if user fees would be prohibitively high;
(ii) Requirements that moneys be placed in the reserve account on a regular basis and that the reserve account be kept separate from all other accounts; and
(iii) Procedures for the department to verify that adequate sums are deposited in the reserve account; and
(c) Methods to ensure that other types of financial assurance provided in accordance with subsection (1) of this section are adequate to cover the costs of closing the facility.
[ 2000 c 114 s 1; 1985 c 436 s 1. Formerly RCW 70.95.215.]

catchline: Landfill disposal facilities—Reserve accounts required by July 1, 1987—Exception—Rules.


title: RCW 70A.205.170

text:
The legislature finds that:
(1) The state of Washington has responded to the increasing challenges of safe, affordable disposal of solid waste by an ambitious program of waste reduction, recycling and reuse, as well as strict standards to ensure the safe handling, transportation, and disposal of solid waste;
(2) All communities in Washington participate in these programs through locally available recycling services, increased source separation and material recovery requirements, programs for waste reduction and product reuse, and performance standards that apply to all solid waste disposal facilities in the state;
(3) New requirements for the siting and performance of disposal facilities have greatly decreased the number of such facilities in Washington, and the state has a significant interest in ensuring adequate disposal capacity within the state;
(4) The landfilling, incineration, and other disposal of solid waste may adversely impact public health and environmental quality, and the state has a significant interest in decreasing volumes of the waste stream destined for disposal;
(5) Because of the decreasing number of disposal facilities and other reasons, solid waste is being transported greater distances, often beyond the community where generated and is increasingly being transported between states;
(6) Washington's waste management priorities and programs are a balanced approach of increased reuse, recycling and waste reduction, the strengthening of markets for recycled content products, and the safe disposal of the remaining waste stream, with the costs of these programs shared equitably by all persons generating waste in the state;
(7) Those residing in other states who generate waste destined for disposal within Washington should also share the costs of waste diversion and management of Washington's disposal facilities, so that the risks of waste disposal and the costs of mitigating those risks are shared equitably by all waste generators, regardless of their location;
(8) Because Washington state may not directly regulate waste handling, reduction, and recycling activities beyond its state boundaries, the only reasonable alternative to ensure this equitable treatment of waste being disposed within Washington is to implement a program of reviewing such activities as to waste originating outside of Washington, and to assign the additional costs, when necessary, to ensure that the waste meets standards substantially equivalent to those applicable to waste generated within the state, and, in some cases, to prohibit disposal of waste where its generation and management is not subject to standards substantially equivalent to those applicable to waste generated within the state.
[ 1993 c 286 s 1. Formerly RCW 70.95.217.]
Notes:
Severability—1993 c 286: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1993 c 286 s 3.]
Effective date—1993 c 286: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect immediately [May 12, 1993]." [ 1993 c 286 s 4.]

catchline: Waste generated outside the state—Findings.


title: RCW 70A.205.175

text:
(1) At least sixty days prior to receiving solid waste generated from outside of the state, the operator of a solid waste disposal site facility shall report to the department the types and quantities of waste to be received from an out-of-state source. The department shall develop guidelines for reporting this information. The guidelines shall provide for less than sixty days notice for shipments of waste made on a short-term or emergency basis. The requirements of this subsection shall take effect upon completion of the guidelines.
(2) Upon notice under subsection (1) of this section, the department shall identify all activities and costs necessary to ensure that solid waste generated out-of-state meets standards relating to solid waste reduction, recycling, and management substantially equivalent to those required of solid waste generated within the state. The department may assess a fee on the out-of-state waste sufficient to recover the actual costs incurred in ensuring that the out-of-state waste meets equivalent state standards. The department may delegate, to a local health department, authority to implement the activities identified by the department under this subsection. All money received from fees imposed under this subsection shall be deposited into the account used to fund the activities required by this section, and shall be used solely for the activities required by this section.
(3) The department may prohibit in-state disposal of solid waste generated from outside of the state, unless the generators of the waste meet: (a) Waste reduction and recycling requirements substantially equivalent to those applicable in Washington state; and (b) solid waste handling standards substantially equivalent to those applicable in Washington state.
(4) The department may adopt rules to implement this section.
[ 2020 c 20 s 1177; 1993 c 286 s 2. Formerly RCW 70.95.218.]
Notes:
Severability—Effective date—1993 c 286: See notes following RCW 70A.205.170.

catchline: Waste generated outside the state—Solid waste disposal site facility reporting requirements—Fees.


title: RCW 70A.205.180

text:
Any jurisdictional health department may apply to the department for financial aid for the enforcement of rules and regulations promulgated under this chapter. Such application shall contain such information, including budget and program description, as may be prescribed by regulations of the department.
After receipt of such applications the department may allocate available funds according to criteria established by regulations of the department considering population, urban development, the number of the disposal sites, and geographical area.
The sum allocated to a jurisdictional health department shall be paid to the treasury from which the operating expenses of the health department are paid, and shall be used exclusively for inspections and administrative expenses necessary to enforce applicable regulations.
[ 1969 ex.s. c 134 s 22. Formerly RCW 70.95.220.]

catchline: Financial aid to jurisdictional health departments—Applications—Allocations.


title: RCW 70A.205.185

text:
The jurisdictional health department applying for state assistance for the enforcement of this chapter shall match such aid allocated by the department in an amount not less than twenty-five percent of the total amount spent for such enforcement activity during the year. The local share of enforcement costs may be met by cash and contributed services.
[ 1969 ex.s. c 134 s 23. Formerly RCW 70.95.230.]

catchline: Financial aid to jurisdictional health departments—Matching funds requirements.


title: RCW 70A.205.190

text:
(1) No person may divert to personal use any recyclable material placed in a container as part of a recycling program, without the consent of the generator of such recyclable material or the solid waste collection company operating under the authority of a town, city, county, or the utilities and transportation commission, and no person may divert to commercial use any recyclable material placed in a container as part of a recycling program, without the consent of the person owning or operating such container.
(2) A violation of subsection (1) of this section is a class 1 civil infraction under chapter 7.80 RCW. Each violation of this section shall be a separate infraction.
[ 1991 c 319 s 407. Formerly RCW 70.95.235.]

catchline: Diversion of recyclable material—Penalty.