title: RCW 77.15.720

text:
(1)(a) If a person discharges a firearm, bow, or crossbow while hunting and in a manner that injures, or that a reasonable person would believe is likely to injure, another person, the director shall revoke all of the shooter's hunting licenses and suspend all hunting privileges for three years. If the shooting kills or results in the death of another person, then the director shall revoke all of the shooter's hunting licenses and suspend all of the person's hunting privileges for ten years.
(b) If a person, with malice, discharges a firearm, bow, or crossbow while hunting and in a manner that kills or causes substantial bodily harm to livestock belonging to another person, the director shall revoke all of the shooter's hunting licenses and suspend all hunting privileges for three years. For the purposes of this subsection (1)(b), "malice" has the same meaning as provided in RCW 9A.04.110 but applies to acts against livestock.
(2) A suspension under subsection (1) of this section shall be continued beyond the applicable periods if damages owed to the victim or livestock owner have not been paid by the suspended person. In such a case, no hunting license shall be reissued to the suspended person unless authorized by the director.
(3) A person who is notified of a license revocation under this section may request an appeal hearing under chapter 34.05 RCW.
(4) The commission may by rule authorize petitions for reinstatement of administrative suspensions and define circumstances under which such a reinstatement will be allowed.
[ 2012 c 176 s 36; 2000 c 107 s 258; 1998 c 190 s 68.]

catchline: Discharge of firearm, bow, or crossbow while hunting—In a manner that injures a person or that kills or causes substantial bodily harm to livestock—Suspension of hunting privileges—Appeal.


doc_type: statute

jurisdiction: wa

title: RCW 77.15.730

text:
(1) Upon receipt of a report of failure to comply with the terms of a citation issued for a recreational violation from the licensing authority of a state that is a party to the wildlife violator compact under RCW 77.75.070, the department shall suspend the violator's recreational license privileges under this title until there is satisfactory evidence of compliance with the terms of the wildlife citation. The department shall adopt by rule procedures for the timely notification and administrative review of such suspension of recreational licensing privileges.
(2) Upon receipt of a report of a conviction for a recreational offense from the licensing authority of a state that is a party to the wildlife violator compact under RCW 77.75.070, the department shall enter such conviction in its records and shall treat such conviction as if it occurred in the state of Washington for the purposes of suspension, revocation, or forfeiture of recreational license privileges.
[ 2001 c 253 s 47; 1994 c 264 s 45; 1993 c 82 s 6. Formerly RCW 75.10.220.]
Notes:
Revoked licenses—Application—1993 c 82: See note following RCW 77.75.070.

license: public-domain-government-work

rule_set: Revised Code of Washington

catchline: Wildlife violator compact citations and convictions.

code: rcw

unit: section

court: Washington State Legislature


title: RCW 77.15.732

text:
(1) Upon receipt of a report of failure to comply with the terms of a citation from the licensing authority of a state that is a party to the wildlife violator compact under RCW 77.75.070, the department shall suspend the violator's license privileges under this title until satisfactory evidence of compliance with the terms of the wildlife citation has been furnished by the issuing state to the department. The department shall adopt by rule procedures for the timely notification and administrative review of such suspension of licensing privileges.
(2) Upon receipt of a report of a conviction from the licensing authority of a state that is a party to the wildlife violator compact under RCW 77.75.070, the department shall enter such conviction in its records and shall treat such conviction as if it occurred in the state of Washington for the purposes of suspension, revocation, or forfeiture of license privileges.
[ 2000 c 107 s 263; 1993 c 82 s 5. Formerly RCW 77.21.090.]
Notes:
Revoked licenses—Application—1993 c 82: See note following RCW 77.75.070.

catchline: Citations from wildlife violator compact party state—Failure to comply.


title: RCW 77.15.740

text:
(1) Beginning January 1, 2025, except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, it is unlawful for a person to:
(a) Cause a vessel or other object to approach, in any manner, within 1,000 yards of a southern resident orca;
(b) Position a vessel to be in the path of a southern resident orca at any point located within 1,000 yards of the whale. This includes intercepting a southern resident orca by positioning a vessel so that the prevailing wind or water current carries the vessel into the path of the whale at any point located within 1,000 yards of the whale;
(c) Position a vessel behind a southern resident orca at any point located within 1,000 yards;
(d) Fail to disengage the transmission of a vessel that is within 400 yards of a southern resident orca;
(e) Cause a vessel or other object to exceed a speed greater than seven knots over ground at any point located within 1,000 yards of a southern resident orca; or
(f) Feed a southern resident orca.
(2) A person is exempt from subsection (1) of this section if that person is:
(a) Operating a federal government vessel in the course of official duties, or operating a state, tribal, or local government vessel when engaged in official duties involving law enforcement, search and rescue, or public safety;
(b) Operating a vessel in conjunction with a vessel traffic service as a vessel traffic service user established under 33 C.F.R. and following a traffic separation scheme, or complying with a vessel traffic service or captain of the port measure or direction, or complying with the rules of the road or taking actions to ensure safety. This also includes vessel transits departing the lanes for safety reasons or to approach or depart a dock or anchorage area, including support vessels escorting or assisting vessels, such as tug boats;
(c) Engaging in an activity, including scientific research or oil spill response, pursuant to the conditions of a permit or other authorization from the national marine fisheries service or the department;
(d) Lawfully engaging in a treaty Indian or commercial fishery that is actively setting, retrieving, or closely tending fishing gear. Commercial fishing vessels in transit are not exempt from subsection (1) of this section;
(e) Conducting vessel operations necessary to avoid an imminent and serious threat to a person, vessel, or the environment, including when necessary for overall safety of navigation and to comply with state and federal navigation requirements; or
(f) Engaging in rescue or clean-up efforts of a beached southern resident orca overseen, coordinated, or authorized by a volunteer stranding network.
(3) For the purpose of this section, "vessel" includes aircraft while on the surface of the water, and every description of watercraft on the water that is used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on the water. However, "vessel" does not include inner tubes, air mattresses, sailboards, and small rafts, or flotation devices or toys customarily used by swimmers.
(4)(a) A violation of this section is a natural resource infraction punishable under chapter 7.84 RCW and carries a fine of five hundred dollars, not including statutory assessments added pursuant to RCW 3.62.090.
(b) A person who qualifies for an exemption under subsection (2) of this section may offer that exemption as an affirmative defense, which that person must prove by a preponderance of the evidence.
(c) The department may choose to offer educational materials in lieu of issuing an infraction, at the officer's discretion.
(d) An officer may not issue an infraction to the operator of a vessel that is within 400 yards of a southern resident orca who has immediately disengaged the transmission of the vessel pursuant to subsection (1)(d) of this section and waits for the whale to leave the vicinity.
(5) The department must post signs at public boat launches and marinas that provide information regarding the vessel setbacks and speed limits required by this section. However, the requirements of this section apply whether or not a sign is present and the absence of a sign is not a defense to any violation of this section.
(6) The department shall conduct outreach and education regarding regulations and best practices for recreational boating in waters inhabited by southern resident orcas, including best practices for avoiding or minimizing encounters closer than 1,000 yards from a southern resident orca consistent with the recommendations of the work group established in section 6, chapter 452, Laws of 2023. This may include the advancement and proliferation of tools for notifying boaters of southern resident orca presence, identifying orca ecotypes, and estimating distance on the water.
(7) If the operator of a motorized commercial whale watching vessel enters within 1,000 yards of a group of southern resident orcas, after taking reasonable measures to determine whether the whales are southern resident orcas, and then identifies the whales as southern resident orcas, the operator must:
(a) Immediately safely reposition the vessel to be 1,000 yards or farther from the southern resident orcas; and
(b) Immediately after repositioning the vessel, report the location of the southern resident orca or orcas to the WhaleReport application for the whale report alert system, or to a successor transboundary notification system designated by the department that is adopted by the international shipping community in the Salish Sea.
(8) The operator of a motorized commercial whale watching vessel may voluntarily log the incident, including measures taken to determine whether the whales were southern resident orcas, and submit the log to the department within 24 hours of the incident.
[ 2023 c 452 s 2; 2019 c 291 s 1; 2014 c 48 s 22; 2012 c 176 s 37; 2008 c 225 s 2.]
Notes:
Effective date—2023 c 452 s 2: "Section 2 of this act takes effect January 1, 2025." [ 2023 c 452 s 9.]
Findings—Intent—2023 c 452: "(1) It is the intent of the legislature to support the recovery of endangered southern resident orcas by reducing underwater noise and disturbance from vessels, which is one of the three main threats to the population's recovery, along with availability of their preferred prey, Chinook salmon, and contaminants in their food and environment. In particular, the legislature intends to protect southern resident orcas from those boaters who intentionally harass, chase, and torment the whales.
(2) The legislature further finds that the state has a compelling interest in protecting the iconic southern resident orca from extinction by acting to implement recovery activities and adaptively managing the southern resident orca recovery effort using best available science. Studies conducted by the national oceanic and atmospheric administration have indicated that southern resident orcas significantly reduced their foraging behavior when moving vessels were observed within 1,000 yards of the whale, with females being more likely than males to reduce their foraging activities when vessels were within an average of 400 yards.
(3) In 2019, the governor's southern resident orca task force produced 49 recommendations to address the three major threats to the population's recovery. While many investments have been made and implementation is ongoing, increased and sustained efforts are needed to advance salmon recovery, address water quality and contaminants in the environment, and reduce underwater noise and physical disturbance of orcas as they attempt to forage, communicate, and rest.
(4) The legislature finds that the threats to orcas are interrelated and they are inexorably linked with salmon recovery. Salmon face a diverse array of threats throughout their life cycle including the threat posed by pinnipeds, such as seals and sea lions, which are protected under federal law, but nevertheless pose a significant threat to salmon and orca recovery through ongoing and excessive predation. Salmon also face fish passage barriers, stormwater runoff, and spills from wastewater treatment plants, among other threats. It is in the best interest of all the people of Washington, including federally recognized tribes and private landowners, to increase the population of salmon and to ensure the survivability of salmon against all threats.
(5) The legislature directed the department of fish and wildlife to produce a report on the effectiveness of regulations designed to address underwater noise and disturbance from commercial whale watching and recreational vessels. The legislature received the first of three mandated reports in November of 2022, and it contained an assessment of the most recent science demonstrating the negative impact of vessels on southern resident orca foraging behavior and foraging success.
(6) While it takes time to see results from efforts to increase prey availability and reduce contaminants, reducing noise and disturbance from vessels can provide immediate support for the southern resident orcas by increasing their likelihood of successful foraging." [ 2023 c 452 s 1.]
Effective date—2019 c 291 s 1: "Section 1 of 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 [May 8, 2019]." [ 2019 c 291 s 6.]
Findings—Intent—2008 c 225: "The legislature finds that the resident population of orca whales in Washington waters (Orcinus orca), commonly referred to as the southern residents, are enormously significant to the state. These highly social, intelligent, and playful marine mammals, which the legislature designated as the official marine mammal of the state of Washington, serve as a symbol of the Pacific Northwest and illustrate the biological diversity and rich natural heritage that all Washington citizens and its visitors enjoy.
However, the legislature also finds that the southern resident orcas are currently in a serious decline. Southern residents experienced an almost twenty percent decline between 1996 and 2001. The federal government listed this orca population as depleted in 2003, and as an endangered species in 2005. The federal government has identified impacts from vessels as a significant threat to these marine mammals.
In 2006, after listing the southern resident orcas as endangered, the federal government designated critical orca habitat and released a proposed recovery plan for the southern resident orcas. The federal government has initiated the process to adopt orca conservation rules, but this process may be lengthy. Additionally, although existing whale and wildlife viewing guidelines are an excellent educational resource, these guidelines are voluntary measures that cannot be enforced.
Therefore, the legislature intends to protect southern resident orca whales from impacts from vessels, and to educate the public on how to reduce the risk of disturbing these important marine mammals." [ 2008 c 225 s 1.]
Intent—2008 c 225: "The legislature encourages the state's law enforcement agencies to utilize existing statutes and regulations to protect southern resident orca whales from impacts from vessels, including the vessel operation and enforcement standards contained in chapter 79A.60 RCW." [ 2008 c 225 s 3.]

catchline: Protection of southern resident orca—Unlawful activities—Penalty—Signage—Outreach and education—Duties of commercial whale watching vessel.


title: RCW 77.15.750

text:
(1) A person is guilty of unlawful use of a department permit if the person:
(a) Violates any terms or conditions of the permit issued by the department or the director; or
(b) Violates any rule of the commission or the director applicable to the requirement for, issuance of, or use of the permit.
(2)(a) Permits covered under subsection (1) of this section include, but are not limited to, master hunter permits, crab pot removal permits and shellfish pot removal permits under RCW 77.70.500, depredation permits, landowner hunting permits, commercial carp license permits, permits to possess or dispense beer or malt liquor pursuant to RCW 66.28.210, and permits to hold, sponsor, or attend an event requiring a banquet permit from the *liquor control board.
(b) Permits excluded from subsection (1) of this section include the discover pass created in RCW 79A.80.020, the vehicle access pass created in RCW 79A.80.040, the day-use permit created in RCW 79A.80.030, commercial use or activity permits, noncommercial use or activity permits, parking permits, experimental fishery permits, trial commercial fishery permits, and scientific collection permits.
(3) Unlawful use of a department permit is a misdemeanor.
(4) A person is guilty of unlawful use of an experimental fishery permit or a trial commercial fishery permit if the person:
(a) Violates any terms or conditions of the permit issued by the department or the director; or
(b) Violates any rule of the commission or the director applicable to the issuance or use of the permit.
(5) Unlawful use of an experimental fishery permit or a trial commercial fishery permit is a gross misdemeanor.
(6) The definitions in this subsection apply throughout this section unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(a) "Experimental fishery permit" means a permit issued by the director for either:
(i) An "emerging commercial fishery," defined as a fishery for a newly classified species for which the department has determined that there is a need to limit participation; or
(ii) An "expanding commercial fishery," defined as a fishery for a previously classified species in a new area, by a new method, or at a new effort level, for which the department has determined that there is a need to limit participation.
(b) "Trial commercial fishery permit" means a permit issued by the department for trial harvest of a newly classified species or harvest of a previously classified species in a new area or by a new means.
[ 2011 c 320 s 20; 2010 c 193 s 9; 2009 c 333 s 14.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: The "state liquor control board" was renamed the "state liquor and cannabis board" by 2015 c 70 s 3.
Effective date—2011 c 320: See note following RCW 79A.80.005.
Findings—Intent—2011 c 320: See RCW 79A.80.005.

catchline: Unlawful use of a department permit—Penalty.


title: RCW 77.15.760

text:
(1) The department may suspend a person's master hunter permit for the following reasons and corresponding lengths of time:
(a) If the person pays the required fine or is found to have committed an infraction under this chapter or the department's rules, the department shall suspend the person's master hunter permit for two years;
(b) If the person pays the required fine or is convicted of a misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, or felony under this chapter, the department shall suspend the person's master hunter permit for life;
(c) If the person pays the required fine or is convicted of trespass, reckless endangerment, criminal conspiracy, or making a false statement to law enforcement while hunting, fishing, or engaging in any activity regulated by the department, the department shall suspend the person's master hunter permit for life;
(d) If the person pays the required fine or is convicted of a felony prohibiting the possession of firearms, unless firearm possession is reinstated, the department shall suspend the person's master hunter permit for life;
(e) If the person has a hunting or fishing license revoked or has hunting or fishing license privileges suspended in another state, the department shall suspend the person's master hunter permit for life;
(f) If the person is cited, or charged by complaint, for an offense under this chapter; or for trespass, reckless endangerment, criminal conspiracy, or making a false statement to law enforcement while hunting, fishing, or engaging in any activity regulated by the department, the department may immediately suspend the person's master hunter permit until the offense has been adjudicated; or
(g) If the person submits fraudulent information to the department, the department shall suspend the person's master hunter permit for life.
(2) Any master hunter who is notified of an intended suspension may request an appeal hearing under chapter 34.05 RCW.
[ 2009 c 333 s 16.]

catchline: Suspension of a master hunter permit—Appeal hearing.


title: RCW 77.15.770

text:
(1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, a person is guilty of unlawful trade in shark fins in the second degree if:
(a) The person sells, offers for sale, purchases, offers to purchase, or otherwise exchanges a shark fin or shark fin derivative product for commercial purposes; or
(b) The person prepares or processes a shark fin or shark fin derivative product for human or animal consumption for commercial purposes.
(2) Except as otherwise provided in this section, a person is guilty of unlawful trade in shark fins in the first degree if:
(a) The person commits the act described by subsection (1) of this section and the violation involves shark fins or a shark fin derivative product with a total market value of two hundred fifty dollars or more;
(b) The person commits the act described by subsection (1) of this section and acted with knowledge that the shark fin or shark fin derivative product originated from a shark that was harvested in an area or at a time where or when the harvest was not legally allowed or by a person not licensed to harvest the shark; or
(c) The person commits the act described by subsection (1) of this section and the violation occurs within five years of entry of a prior conviction under this section or a prior conviction for any other gross misdemeanor or felony under this title involving fish, other than a recreational fishing violation.
(3)(a) Unlawful trade in shark fins in the second degree is a gross misdemeanor. Upon conviction, the department shall suspend any commercial fishing privileges for the person that requires a license under this title for a period of one year.
(b) Unlawful trade in shark fins in the first degree is a class C felony. Upon conviction, the department shall suspend any commercial fishing privileges for the person that requires a license under this title for a period of one year.
(4) Any person who obtains a license or permit issued by the department to take or possess sharks or shark parts for bona fide research or educational purposes, and who sells, offers for sale, purchases, offers to purchase, or otherwise trades a shark fin or shark fin derivative product, exclusively for bona fide research or educational purposes, may not be held liable under or subject to the penalties of this section.
[ 2014 c 48 s 23; 2011 c 324 s 2.]
Notes:
Findings—2011 c 324: "The legislature finds and declares the following:
(1) The practice of shark finning, where a shark is caught, its fins are sliced off while it is still alive, and the animal returned to the sea severely and almost always fatally wounded, constitutes a serious threat to Washington's coastal ecosystem and biodiversity. Sharks are particularly susceptible to overfishing because they only reach sexual maturity between seven to twelve years of age and hatch or birth small litters. The destruction of the population of sharks, which reside at the top of the marine food chain, is an urgent problem that upsets the balance of species in the ocean ecosystem.
(2) Shark finning condemns millions of sharks every year to slow, painful deaths. Returned to the water without their fins, the maimed sharks are attacked by other predators or drown, because most shark species must swim in order to push water through their gills. Shark finning is therefore a cruel practice contrary to the good morals of the citizens of the state of Washington.
(3) The market for shark fins drives the brutal practice of shark finning. Shark finning and trade in shark fins and shark fin derivative products are occurring all along the Pacific Coast, including the state of Washington.
(4) The consumption of shark fins and shark fin derivative products by humans may cause serious health risks, including risks from mercury." [ 2011 c 324 s 1.]

catchline: Unlawful trade in shark fins—Penalty.


title: RCW 77.15.780

text:
When seized property, other than fish, shellfish, and wildlife, is judicially forfeited to the department, the department may: (1) Retain it for official use unless the property is required to be destroyed; (2) upon application by any law enforcement agency of the state, release the property to the agency for use in enforcing this title; (3) donate the property as provided under RCW 77.130.060; or (4) sell the property and deposit the proceeds into the fish and wildlife enforcement reward account created in RCW 77.15.425. Any sale of the property must be done in accordance with RCW 77.130.010(1) and 77.130.020. However, the requirement in those sections for notice to owners does not apply.
[ 2012 c 176 s 12.]

catchline: Disposition of judicially forfeited seized property.


title: RCW 77.15.790

text:
(1) A person may not negligently feed or attempt to feed large wild carnivores or negligently attract large wild carnivores to land or a building.
(2) If a fish and wildlife officer, ex officio fish and wildlife officer, or animal control authority, as defined in RCW 16.30.010, has probable cause to believe that a person is negligently feeding, attempting to feed, or attracting large wild carnivores to land or a building by placing or locating food, food waste, or other substance in, on, or about any land or building, and the food, food waste, or other substance poses a risk to the safety of any person, livestock, or pet because it is attracting or could attract large wild carnivores to the land or building, that person commits an infraction under chapter 7.84 RCW.
(3) Subsection (2) of this section does not apply to:
(a) A person who is engaging in forest practices in accordance with chapter 76.09 RCW or in hunting or trapping wildlife in accordance with all other applicable provisions of this title or rules of the commission or the director;
(b) A person who is engaging in a farming or ranching operation that is using generally accepted farming or ranching practices consistent with Titles 15 and 16 RCW;
(c) Waste disposal facilities that are operating in accordance with applicable federal, state, and municipal laws;
(d) Entities listed in RCW 16.30.020(1) (a) through (j) and scientific collection permit holders; or
(e) A fish and wildlife officer or employee or agent of the department operating under the authority of or upon request from an officer conducting authorized wildlife capture activities to address a threat to human safety or a wildlife interaction as defined in RCW 77.36.010.
(4) For persons and entities listed in subsection (3) of this section, a fish and wildlife officer, ex officio fish and wildlife officer, or animal control authority, as defined in RCW 16.30.010, may issue a written warning to the person or entity if:
(a) The officer or animal control authority can articulate facts to support that the person or entity has placed or is responsible for placing food, food waste, or other substance in, on, or about the person's or entity's land or buildings; and
(b) The food, food waste, or other substance poses a risk to the safety of any person, livestock, or pet because the food, food waste, or other substance is attracting or could attract large wild carnivores to the land or buildings.
(5)(a) Any written warning issued under subsection (4) of this section requires the person or entity placing or otherwise responsible for placing the food, food waste, or other substance to contain, move, or remove that food, food waste, or other substance within two days.
(b) If a person who is issued a written warning under (a) of this subsection fails to contain, move, or remove the food, food waste, or other substance as directed, the person commits an infraction under chapter 7.84 RCW.
[ 2012 c 176 s 38.]

catchline: Negligently feeding, attempting to feed, or attracting large wild carnivores to land or a building—Infraction.


title: RCW 77.15.792

text:
(1) A person may not intentionally feed or attempt to feed large wild carnivores or intentionally attract large wild carnivores to land or a building.
(2) A person who intentionally feeds, attempts to feed, or attracts large wild carnivores to land or a building is guilty of a misdemeanor.
(3) A person who is issued an infraction under RCW 77.15.790 for negligently feeding, attempting to feed, or attracting large wild carnivores to land or a building, and who fails to contain, move, or remove the food, food waste, or other substance within twenty-four hours of being issued the infraction, is guilty of a misdemeanor.
[ 2012 c 176 s 39.]

catchline: Intentionally feeding or attempting to feed large wild carnivores or intentionally attracting large wild carnivores to land or a building—Penalty.


title: RCW 77.15.800

text:
(1)(a) A person is guilty of engaging in wildlife rehabilitation without a permit if the person captures, transports, treats, feeds, houses, conditions, or trains injured, diseased, oiled, or abandoned wildlife without department authority for temporary actions or a wildlife rehabilitation permit issued by the department.
(b) The department must adopt rules for permissible temporary actions that include, at a minimum, the conditions under which a person may capture or transport wildlife to a primary permittee, subpermittee, or a rehabilitation facility.
(2) A person who is a primary permittee or subpermittee on a wildlife rehabilitation permit issued by the department is guilty of unlawful use of a wildlife rehabilitation permit if the person violates any permit provisions or department rules pertaining to wildlife rehabilitation other than those addressing recordkeeping and reporting requirements.
(3) A violation of this section is a misdemeanor.
[ 2014 c 48 s 25.]

catchline: Engaging in wildlife rehabilitation without a permit—Penalty.


title: RCW 77.15.803

text:
(1) Based upon reasonable suspicion that a person possesses an aquatic conveyance that has not been cleaned and drained or carries or contains aquatic invasive species in violation of this title, fish and wildlife officers or ex officio fish and wildlife officers may temporarily stop the person and inspect the aquatic conveyance for compliance with the requirements of this title.
(2) Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the definitions in both RCW 77.08.010 and 77.135.010 apply throughout this section.
[ 2014 c 202 s 201.]
Notes:
Findings—2014 c 202: See note following RCW 77.135.010.

catchline: Inspection of aquatic conveyance.


title: RCW 77.15.805

text:
(1) Upon a showing of probable cause that there has been a violation of an invasive species law of the state of Washington, or upon a showing of probable cause to believe that evidence of such a violation may be found at a place, a court must issue a search warrant or arrest warrant. Fish and wildlife officers or ex officio fish and wildlife officers may execute any such search or arrest warrant reasonably necessary to carry out their duties under this title with regard to an invasive species law and may seize invasive species or any evidence of a crime and the fruits or instrumentalities of a crime as provided by warrant. The court may have property opened or entered and the contents examined.
(2) Seizure of property as evidence of a crime does not preclude seizure of the property for forfeiture as authorized by law.
[ 2014 c 202 s 202.]
Notes:
Findings—2014 c 202: See note following RCW 77.135.010.

catchline: Violation of an invasive species law—Warrant.


title: RCW 77.15.807

text:
(1) Upon a showing of probable cause that a water body or property has an invasive species in or on it, and the owner refuses permission to allow inspection of the water body or property, a court in the county in which the water body or property is located may, upon the request of the director or the director's designee, issue a warrant to the director or the director's designee authorizing the taking of specimens of invasive species, general inspection of the property or water body, and the performance of containment, eradication, or control work.
(2) Application for issuance, execution, and return of the warrant authorized by this section must be in accordance with the applicable rules of the superior courts or the district courts.
[ 2014 c 202 s 203.]
Notes:
Findings—2014 c 202: See note following RCW 77.135.010.

catchline: Invasive species in or on water body or property—Warrant.


title: RCW 77.15.809

text:
(1) A person is guilty of unlawful use of invasive species in the second degree if the person:
(a) Fails to stop at a mandatory check station or to return to the mandatory check station for inspection if directed to do so by a fish and wildlife officer or ex officio fish and wildlife officer;
(b) Fails to allow an aquatic conveyance stopped at a mandatory check station to be inspected for clean and drain requirements or aquatic invasive species;
(c) Fails to comply with a decontamination order;
(d) Possesses, except in the case of trafficking, a prohibited level 1 or level 2 species without department authorization, a permit, or as otherwise provided by rule;
(e) Possesses, introduces on or into a water body or property, or traffics in a prohibited level 3 species without department authorization, a permit, or as otherwise provided by rule;
(f) Introduces on or into a water body or property a regulated type A, type B, or type C species without department authorization, a permit, or as otherwise provided by rule;
(g) Fails to readily and clearly identify in writing by taxonomic species name or subspecies name a regulated type B species used for commercial purposes; or
(h) Knowingly violates a quarantine declaration under RCW 77.135.050.
(2) A violation of subsection (1) of this section is a gross misdemeanor. In addition to criminal penalties, a court may order the person to pay all costs in capturing, killing, or controlling the invasive species, including its progeny. This subsection does not affect the authority of the department to bring a separate civil action to recover habitat restoration costs necessitated by the person's unlawful use of invasive species.
(3) This section does not apply to:
(a) A person who complies with the department directives pursuant to RCW 77.135.120 for mandatory check stations. Such a person is exempt from criminal penalties under this section or RCW 77.15.811, and forfeiture under this chapter, unless the person has a prior conviction under those sections within the past five years;
(b) A person who possesses an aquatic invasive species, if the person is in the process of:
(i) Removing it from the aquatic conveyance in a manner specified by the department; or
(ii) Releasing it if caught while fishing and immediately returning it to the water body from which it came;
(c) Possessing or introducing nonnative aquatic animal species by ballast water held or discharged by vessels regulated under chapter 77.120 RCW; or
(d) Possessing or introducing nonnative aquatic animal species through private sector shellfish aquaculture operations, transfers, or conveyances regulated under chapter 77.115 RCW.
(4) Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the definitions in both RCW 77.08.010 and 77.135.010 apply throughout this section.
[ 2014 c 202 s 205.]
Notes:
Findings—2014 c 202: See note following RCW 77.135.010.

catchline: Unlawful use of invasive species in the second degree—Penalty.


title: RCW 77.15.811

text:
(1) A person is guilty of unlawful use of invasive species in the first degree if the person:
(a) Traffics or introduces on or into a water body or property a prohibited level 1 or level 2 species without department authorization, a permit, or as otherwise provided by rule; or
(b) Commits a subsequent violation of unlawful use of invasive species in the second degree within five years of the date of a prior conviction under RCW 77.15.809.
(2) A violation of this section is a class C felony. In addition to criminal penalties, a court may order the person to pay all costs in managing the invasive species, including the species' progeny. This subsection does not affect the authority of the department to bring a separate civil action to recover habitat restoration costs necessitated by the person's unlawful use of invasive species.
(3) This section does not apply to:
(a) A person who complies with department directives pursuant to RCW 77.135.120 for mandatory check stations, and who is exempt from criminal penalties under this section and forfeiture under this chapter, unless the person has a prior conviction under this section or RCW 77.15.809 within the past five years; or
(b) A person who possesses an aquatic invasive species, if the person is in the process of:
(i) Removing it from the aquatic conveyance in a manner specified by the department; or
(ii) Releasing it if caught while fishing and is immediately returning it to the water body from which it came.
(4) Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the definitions in both RCW 77.08.010 and 77.135.010 apply throughout this section.
[ 2014 c 202 s 206.]
Notes:
Findings—2014 c 202: See note following RCW 77.135.010.

catchline: Unlawful use of invasive species in the first degree—Penalty.


title: RCW 77.15.813

text:
(1) A person is guilty of unlawfully engaging in fishing guide activity if the person holds a game fish guide license issued under RCW 77.65.480 or has a license issued under RCW 77.65.010 to operate a charter boat or act as a food fish guide, and the person:
(a) Fails to perform any duty of a charter boat or guide operator established in RCW 77.32.430; or
(b) Violates any rule of the commission or director regarding the sale, possession, issuance, or reporting of temporary fishing licenses, temporary short-term charter stamps, or catch record cards.
(2) Unlawfully engaging in fishing guide activity is a gross misdemeanor.
[ 2015 c 90 s 1.]

catchline: Unlawfully engaging in fishing guide activity—Penalty.


title: RCW 77.15.815

text:
(1) This section applies only to persons and activities defined in RCW 77.65.615, including commercial whale watching and paddle tours.
(2) A person is guilty of unlawfully engaging in commercial whale watching in the second degree if the person conducts commercial whale watching activities and:
(a) Does not have and possess all licenses and permits required under this title; or
(b) Violates any department rule regarding commercial whale watching.
(3) A person is guilty of engaging in commercial whale watching in the first degree if the person commits the act described in subsection (2) of this section and the violation occurs within five years of any of the following:
(a) The date of a prior conviction under this section;
(b) The date of a finding of guilt or plea of guilty pursuant to an amended information, criminal complaint or citation, or infraction for any violation that was originally charged as a violation of this section, regardless of whether the imposition of the sentence is deferred or the penalty is suspended; or
(c) The date of any disposition of a case arising from an act originally charged as a violation of this section, whereby the offender enters into a disposition that continues or defers the case for dismissal upon the successful completion of specific terms or conditions.
(4)(a) Unlawful commercial whale watching in the second degree is a misdemeanor.
(b) Unlawful commercial whale watching in the first degree is a gross misdemeanor. In addition to the appropriate criminal penalties, the director shall revoke any operator license, business license, or both, and order a suspension of the person's privilege to engage in commercial whale watching for two years.
(5) A person is guilty of unlawfully engaging in a paddle tour in the second degree if the person conducts paddle tour activities and:
(a) Does not have and possess all licenses and permits required under this title; or
(b) Violates any department rule regarding the operation of paddle tours in marine waters.
(6) A person is guilty of unlawfully engaging in a paddle tour in the first degree if the person commits an act described in subsection (5) of this section and the violation occurs within five years of the date of any of the following:
(a) The date of a prior conviction under this section;
(b) The date of a finding of guilt or plea of guilty pursuant to an amended information, criminal complaint or citation, or infraction for any violation that was originally charged as a violation of this section, regardless of whether the imposition of sentence is deferred or the penalty is suspended; or
(c) The date of any disposition of a case arising from an act originally charged as a violation of this section, whereby the offender enters into a disposition that continues or defers the case for dismissal upon the successful completion of specific terms and conditions.
(7)(a) Unlawful engagement in a paddle tour in the second degree is a misdemeanor.
(b) Unlawful engagement in a paddle tour in the first degree is a gross misdemeanor. In addition to appropriate criminal penalties, the director shall revoke any paddle guide license, business license, or both, and order a suspension of the person's privilege to conduct paddle tours in marine waters for two years.
[ 2023 c 452 s 8; 2019 c 291 s 4.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—2023 c 452: See note following RCW 77.15.740.

catchline: Unlawfully engaging in commercial whale watching—Penalty.


title: RCW 77.15.900

text:
This chapter may be known and cited as the fish and wildlife enforcement code.
[ 1998 c 190 s 126.]

catchline: Short title.


title: RCW 77.18.050

text:
The legislature finds that it is beneficial to improve opportunities for trout fishing in order to satisfy the public's demand for recreational fishing during a time of declining opportunities to catch anadromous salmon and steelhead trout.
Fish farmers can produce trout in a triploid genetic configuration for the purpose of certifying that the fish are sterile and that they cannot interbreed with wild trout. These fish are ideally suited to planting into public lakes and ponds to provide immediate recreational fishing at a reasonable cost. The fish continue to grow throughout their life cycle and have the potential to grow to trophy size.
Planting of these catchable trout can provide increased angler participation, increased fishing license sales, increased tourism activities, and a boost to local economies.
The department of fish and wildlife is authorized to purchase these privately produced fish to supplement existing department trout hatchery production. The planting of these catchable trout in water bodies with water quality sufficient to support fish life must not have an adverse impact on the wild trout population.
[ 1999 c 363 s 1.]
Notes:
Report to the legislature—1999 c 363: "The department of fish and wildlife shall report to the appropriate legislative committees by February 1, 2001, regarding the implementation of this act. The report shall include information regarding the location and number of fish planted, the size of the fish planted, and information relating to the cost-effectiveness of the catchable trout program, including an estimate of new license revenues generated by the programs." [ 1999 c 363 s 4.]
Effective date—1999 c 363: "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 [May 17, 1999]." [ 1999 c 363 s 6.]

catchline: Planting privately produced trout.


title: RCW 77.18.060

text:
The fish and wildlife commission in consultation with the department is authorized to determine which waters of the state are appropriate for this use. In making this determination, the commission shall seek geographic distribution to assure opportunity to fishers statewide.
The commission in consultation with the department will determine the maximum number of fish that may be planted into state waters so as not to compete with the wild populations of fish species in the water body.
[ 2005 c 87 s 1; 1999 c 363 s 2.]
Notes:
Report to the legislature—Effective date—1999 c 363: See notes following RCW 77.18.050.

catchline: Determination of appropriate waters.


title: RCW 77.32.007

text:
For the purposes of this chapter "special hunting season" means a hunting season established by rule of the commission for the purpose of taking specified wildlife under a special hunting permit.
[ 1984 c 240 s 8.]

catchline: "Special hunting season" defined.


title: RCW 77.32.010

text:
(1) Except as otherwise provided in this chapter or department rule, a recreational license issued by the director is required to hunt, fish, or take wildlife or seaweed. A hunting license is not required for bullfrogs.
(2) A pass or permit issued under RCW 79A.80.020, 79A.80.030, or 79A.80.040 is required to park or operate a motor vehicle on a recreation site or lands, as defined in RCW 79A.80.010.
(3) The commission may, by rule, indicate that a fishing permit issued to a nontribal member by the Colville Tribes shall satisfy the license requirements in subsection (1) of this section on the waters of Lake Rufus Woods and on the north shore of Lake Rufus Woods, and that a Colville Tribes tribal member identification card shall satisfy the license requirements in subsection (1) of this section on all waters of Lake Rufus Woods.
(4) A recreational fishing license is not required to fish for carp in Moses Lake or Vancouver Lake.
[ 2024 c 77 s 2; 2019 c 290 s 3; 2014 c 48 s 26; 2011 c 320 s 19; 2009 c 564 s 956; 2008 c 329 s 923; 2006 c 57 s 1; 2001 c 253 s 49; 2000 c 107 s 264; 1998 c 191 s 7; 1987 c 506 s 76; 1985 c 457 s 25; 1983 c 284 s 2; 1981 c 310 s 7; 1980 c 78 s 103; 1979 ex.s. c 3 s 1; 1959 c 245 s 1; 1955 c 36 s 77.32.010. Prior: 1947 c 275 s 93; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 5992-102.]
Notes:
Findings—2024 c 77: "(1) The legislature finds that as Washington's growing population accesses limited natural resources, there is a need to increase compliance, and provide education, on appropriate gear, seasons, and species take limits.
(2) The legislature further finds that previously unregulated species are under increased recreational harvest. Recreational licensing is an appropriate mechanism to educate the public and preserve opportunity in the future.
(3) The legislature further finds that eulachon, also known as Pacific smelt and Columbia river smelt, are listed as a threatened species under the endangered species act and licensing requirements are needed to provide angler education and allow for better regulation and monitoring to prevent them from becoming endangered.
(4) The legislature also finds that licensing for carp will aid in enforcement of illegal fishing where people fishing for regulated species without a required license have claimed to be fishing for carp, thereby negatively affecting the fisheries of other regulated species.
(5) The legislature further finds that licensing for crawfish will provide the public with education that enables them to distinguish between native and invasive crawfish species, facilitating the removal of invasive crawfish." [ 2024 c 77 s 1.]
Finding—Intent—2019 c 290: See note following RCW 77.12.085.
Effective date—2011 c 320: See note following RCW 79A.80.005.
Findings—Intent—2011 c 320: See RCW 79A.80.005.
Effective date—2009 c 564: See note following RCW 2.68.020.
Severability—Effective date—2008 c 329: See notes following RCW 28B.105.110.
Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.
Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.
Findings—Intent—1983 c 284: See note following RCW 82.27.020.
Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.

catchline: Recreational license required—Activities—Pass or permit for parking.


title: RCW 77.32.014

text:
Licenses, tags, and stamps issued pursuant to this chapter shall be revoked and the privileges suspended for any period in which a person is certified by the department of social and health services or a court of competent jurisdiction as a person in noncompliance with a support order. Fish and wildlife officers and ex officio fish and wildlife officers shall enforce this section through checks of the department of licensing's computer database. A listing on the department of licensing's database that an individual's license is currently suspended pursuant to RCW 46.20.291(8) shall be prima facie evidence that the individual is in noncompliance with a support order. Presentation of a written release issued by the department of social and health services stating that the person is in compliance with an order shall serve as prima facie proof of compliance with a support order.
[ 2001 c 253 s 50; 2000 c 107 s 265; 1998 c 191 s 8; 1997 c 58 s 881.]
Notes:
Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.
Short title—Part headings, captions, table of contents not law—Exemptions and waivers from federal law—Conflict with federal requirements—Severability—1997 c 58: See RCW 74.08A.900 through 74.08A.904.
Effective dates—Intent—1997 c 58: See notes following RCW 74.20A.320.

catchline: Licenses, tags, and stamps—Revocation/privileges suspended for noncompliance with support order.


title: RCW 77.32.025

text:
Notwithstanding RCW 77.32.010, the commission may adopt rules designating times and places for the purposes of family fishing days when licenses and catch record cards are not required to fish or to harvest shellfish.
[ 1998 c 191 s 9; 1996 c 20 s 2; 1987 c 506 s 103.]
Notes:
Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.
Effective date—1996 c 20: "This act shall take effect July 1, 1996." [ 1996 c 20 s 3.]
Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.

catchline: Establishment of times and places for family fishing with no license or catch record card—Authorized.


title: RCW 77.32.050

text:
(1) All recreational and commercial licenses, permits, tags, stamps, and raffle tickets shall be issued under the authority of the commission. The commission shall adopt rules for the issuance of licenses, permits, tags, stamps, and raffle tickets, and for the collection, payment, and handling of license fees, including terms and conditions to govern dealers, and dealer fees. A transaction fee on commercial and recreational documents issued through an automated licensing system may be set by the commission and collected from licensees. The department may authorize all or part of such fee to be paid directly to a contractor providing automated licensing system services. The department and dealers shall collect and retain dealer fees of at least two dollars for purchase of a standard hunting or fishing recreational license document or commercial license document, except that the commission may set a lower dealer fee for issuance of tags or when a licensee buys a license that involves a stamp or display card format rather than a standard department licensing document form. Dealer fees must be uniform throughout the state.
(2) The application fee is waived for all commercial license documents that are issued through the automated licensing system.
[ 2020 c 148 s 17; 2011 c 339 s 5; 2009 c 333 s 71; 2003 c 389 s 1; 2000 c 107 s 266; 1999 c 243 s 2; 1998 c 191 s 10; 1996 c 101 s 8; 1995 c 116 s 1; 1987 c 506 s 77; 1981 c 310 s 16; 1980 c 78 s 106; 1979 ex.s. c 3 s 2; 1955 c 36 s 77.32.050. Prior: 1953 c 75 s 2; 1947 c 275 s 97; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 5992-106.]
Notes:
Intent—Effective date—2020 c 148: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
Effective date—2011 c 339 s 5: "Section 5 of 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 June 30, 2011." [ 2011 c 339 s 41.]
Finding—1999 c 243: "The legislature finds that recreational license dealers are private businesses that provide the service of license sales in every part of the state. The dealers who sell recreational fishing and hunting licenses for the department of fish and wildlife perform a valuable public service function for those members of the public who purchase licenses as well as a revenue generating function for the department. The modernized fishing and hunting license format will require additional investments by license dealers in employee training and public education." [ 1999 c 243 s 1.]
Effective date—1999 c 243: "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 [May 10, 1999]." [ 1999 c 243 s 4.]
Effective date—1998 c 191: "Sections 10, 24, 31 through 33, 37, 43, and 45 of this act are necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and take effect immediately [March 27, 1998]." [ 1998 c 191 s 49.]
Findings—1996 c 101: See note following RCW 77.32.530.
Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.
Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.

catchline: Recreational and commercial licenses, permits, tags, stamps, and raffle tickets issued by authorized officials—Rules—Fees.


title: RCW 77.32.070

text:
(1) Applicants for a license, permit, tag, or stamp shall furnish the information required by the director. However, the director may not require the purchaser of a razor clam license under RCW 77.32.520 to provide any personal information except for proof of residency. The commission may adopt rules requiring licensees or permittees to keep records and make reports concerning the taking of or effort to harvest fish, shellfish, and wildlife. The reporting requirement may be waived where, for any reason, the department is not able to receive the report. The department must provide reasonable options for a licensee to submit information to a live operator prior to the reporting deadline.
(2) The commission may, by rule, set an administrative penalty for failure to comply with rules requiring the reporting of taking or effort to harvest wildlife. The commission may also adopt rules requiring hunters who have not reported to complete a report and pay the assessed administrative penalty before a new hunting license is issued.
(3) The commission may, by rule, set an administrative penalty for failure to comply with rules requiring the reporting of data from catch record cards officially endorsed for Puget Sound Dungeness crab. The commission may also adopt rules requiring fishers who possessed a catch record card officially endorsed for Puget Sound Dungeness crab and who have not reported to complete a report and pay the assessed administrative penalty before a new catch record card officially endorsed for Puget Sound Dungeness crab is issued.
(4) Fees for recreational fishing are specified in RCW 77.32.600 and fees for hunting are specified in RCW 77.32.610.
[ 2025 c 328 s 3; 2008 c 244 s 1; 2005 c 418 s 1; 2004 c 248 s 3; 1998 c 191 s 11; 1995 c 116 s 3; 1987 c 506 s 79; 1981 c 310 s 18; 1980 c 78 s 108; 1955 c 36 s 77.32.070. Prior: 1947 c 275 s 99; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 5992-108.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.
Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.
Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.
Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.

catchline: Information required from license applicants—Reports on taking/effort to harvest fish, shellfish, and wildlife—Administrative penalty.


title: RCW 77.32.090

text:
The commission may adopt rules pertaining to the form, period of validity, use, possession, and display of licenses, permits, tags, stamps, and raffle tickets required by this chapter. This authority extends to the issuance of electronic licenses, permits, tags, stamps, and catch record cards, as well as their use, possession, display, and presentation to agency staff.
[ 2022 c 20 s 1; 2000 c 107 s 267; 1998 c 191 s 12; 1996 c 101 s 10; 1995 c 116 s 4; 1987 c 506 s 80; 1981 c 310 s 19; 1980 c 78 s 109; 1955 c 36 s 77.32.090. Prior: 1947 c 275 s 101; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 5992-110.]
Notes:
Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.
Findings—1996 c 101: See note following RCW 77.32.530.
Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.
Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.

catchline: Licenses, permits, tags, stamps, and raffle tickets—Rules for form, display, procedures—Authority.


title: RCW 77.32.155

text:
(1)(a) When purchasing any hunting license, persons under the age of 18 shall present certification of completion of a course of instruction in the safe handling of firearms, safety, conservation, and sporting/hunting behavior. All persons purchasing any hunting license for the first time, if born after January 1, 1972, shall present such certification.
(b)(i) The director may establish a program for training persons in the safe handling of firearms, conservation, and sporting/hunting behavior and shall prescribe the type of instruction and the qualifications of the instructors. The director shall, as part of establishing the training program, exempt the following individuals from the firearms skills portion of any instruction course completed over the internet:
(A) Current or retired members of the United States military;
(B) Current or retired general authority Washington peace officers as defined in RCW 10.93.020;
(C) Current or retired limited authority Washington peace officers as defined in RCW 10.93.020, if the officer is or was duly authorized by his or her employer to carry a concealed pistol;
(D) Current or retired specially commissioned Washington peace officers as defined in RCW 10.93.020, if the officer is or was duly authorized by his or her commissioning agency to carry a concealed pistol;
(E) Current or retired Washington peace officers as defined in RCW 43.101.010 who have met the requirements of RCW 43.101.095 or 43.101.157 and whose certification is in good standing or has not been revoked; and
(F) Current or retired federal peace officers as defined in RCW 10.93.020.
(ii) The director may cooperate with the national rifle association, organized sports/outdoor enthusiasts' groups, or other public or private organizations when establishing the training program.
(c) Upon the successful completion of a course established under this section, the trainee shall receive a hunter education certificate signed by an authorized instructor. The certificate is evidence of compliance with this section.
(d) The director may accept certificates from other states that persons have successfully completed firearm safety, hunter education, or similar courses as evidence of compliance with this section.
(2)(a) The director may authorize a once in a lifetime, one license year deferral of hunter education training for individuals who are accompanied, while hunting, by a nondeferred Washington-licensed hunter who is at least 18 years of age. The commission shall adopt rules for the administration of this subsection to avoid potential fraud and abuse.
(b) The director is authorized to collect an application fee for obtaining the once in a lifetime, one license year deferral of hunter education training from the department. This fee must be deposited into the fish and wildlife enforcement reward account and must be used exclusively to administer the deferral program created in this subsection.
(c) For the purposes of this subsection, "accompanied" means to go along with another person while staying within a range of the other person that permits continual unaided visual and auditory communication.
(3) To encourage the participation of an adequate number of instructors for the training program, the commission shall develop nonmonetary incentives available to individuals who commit to serving as an instructor. The incentives may include additional hunting opportunities for instructors.
(4) The commission is authorized to adopt rules to offer a one-time discount of up to $20 on a hunting license purchase to first-time resident hunters who have completed the Washington hunter education training program.
[ 2025 c 328 s 4; 2017 c 255 s 1; 2013 c 23 s 243; 2009 c 269 s 1; 2007 c 163 s 1; 2006 c 23 s 1; 1998 c 191 s 17; 1993 c 85 s 1; 1987 c 506 s 81; 1981 c 310 s 21; 1980 c 78 s 104; 1957 c 17 s 1. Formerly RCW 77.32.015.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.
Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.
Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.
Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.

catchline: Hunter education training program—Certificate—Deferral—Adoption of rules—Fee—One-time discount.


title: RCW 77.32.237

text:
The commission shall enhance the fish, shellfish, and wildlife-related recreational opportunities for a person with a disability. The commission shall authorize the director to grant a disability designation to a person with a disability who meets eligibility criteria established by the commission by rule. The commission shall adopt rules defining who is a person with a disability for purposes of eligibility for disability designation. A person granted a disability designation is eligible for reasonable accommodations, determined by the director, to allow the person to participate in fish, shellfish, and wildlife-related recreational activities. The commission shall adopt rules governing the conduct of a person with a disability participating in fish, shellfish, and wildlife-related recreational activities and the conduct of companions permitted, as a reasonable accommodation, to assist such a person in fish, shellfish, and wildlife-related recreational opportunities.
[ 2018 c 168 s 2; 2007 c 254 s 6; 1989 c 297 s 1.]

catchline: Enhancing the fish, shellfish, and wildlife-related recreational opportunities for a person with a disability—Disability designation—Rule-making authority.


title: RCW 77.32.240

text:
A scientific permit allows the holder to collect for research or display food fish, game fish, shellfish, and wildlife, including avian nests and eggs as required in RCW 77.32.010, under conditions prescribed by the director. Before a permit is issued, the applicant shall demonstrate to the director their qualifications and establish the need for the permit. The director may require a bond of up to one thousand dollars to ensure compliance with the permit. Permits are valid for the time specified, unless sooner revoked.
Holders of permits may exchange specimens with the approval of the director.
A permit holder who violates this section shall forfeit the permit and bond and shall not receive a similar permit for one year. The fee for a scientific permit is twelve dollars. The application fee is one hundred five dollars.
[ 2011 c 339 s 6; 1998 c 191 s 21; 1991 sp.s. c 7 s 6; 1981 c 310 s 28; 1980 c 78 s 119; 1955 c 36 s 77.32.240. Prior: 1947 c 275 s 113; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 5992-122.]
Notes:
Effective date—2011 c 339: See note following RCW 43.84.092.
Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.
Effective date—1991 sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 77.65.450.
Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.


title: RCW 77.32.250

text:
Except as authorized in RCW 77.32.565, licenses, permits, tags, and stamps required by this chapter and raffle tickets authorized under this chapter shall not be transferred.
[ 2008 c 10 s 3; 2001 c 253 s 51; 2000 c 107 s 269; 1998 c 191 s 22; 1996 c 101 s 12; 1995 c 116 s 5; 1981 c 310 s 29; 1980 c 78 s 120; 1955 c 36 s 77.32.250. Prior: 1947 c 275 s 114; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 5992-123.]
Notes:
Short title—2008 c 10: See note following RCW 77.32.565.
Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.
Findings—1996 c 101: See note following RCW 77.32.530.
Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.

catchline: Licenses nontransferable.


title: RCW 77.32.256

text:
The director shall by rule establish the conditions and fees for issuance of duplicate licenses, rebates, permits, tags, and stamps required by this chapter. The fee for duplicate licenses, rebates, permits, tags, and stamps, except catch record cards, may not exceed the actual cost to the department for issuing the duplicate.
[ 2003 c 318 s 2; 2002 c 222 s 1; 1995 c 116 s 6; 1994 c 255 s 13; 1991 sp.s. c 7 s 7; 1987 c 506 s 86; 1985 c 464 s 7; 1981 c 310 s 30; 1980 c 78 s 121; 1975 1st ex.s. c 15 s 32.]
Notes:
Effective date—2003 c 318: See note following RCW 77.32.430.
Effective date—1994 c 255 ss 1-13: See note following RCW 77.32.520.
Effective date—1991 sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 77.65.450.
Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.
Effective date—1985 c 464: See note following RCW 77.65.450.
Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.
Effective dates—1975 1st ex.s. c 15: See note following RCW 77.65.450.

catchline: Duplicate licenses, rebates, permits, tags, and stamps—Fees.


title: RCW 77.32.320

text:
(1) The correct licenses and tags are required to hunt deer, elk, black bear, cougar, sheep, mountain goat, moose, or wild turkey except as provided in RCW 77.32.450.
(2) Persons who kill deer, elk, bear, cougar, mountain goat, sheep, moose, or wild turkey shall immediately validate and attach their own transport tag to the carcass as provided by rule of the director.
[ 1998 c 191 s 23; 1997 c 114 s 1; 1990 c 84 s 4; 1987 c 506 s 87; 1981 c 310 s 8.]
Notes:
Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.
Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.
Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.

catchline: Required licenses, tags—Transport tags for game.


title: RCW 77.32.350

text:
In addition to a small game hunting license, a supplemental migratory bird permit is required to hunt for migratory birds.
The migratory bird permit is required for all persons 16 years of age or older. Furthermore, a migratory bird authorization is required for all persons to hunt band-tailed pigeon, brant, sea duck, snow goose, and southwest Canada goose.
[ 2025 c 328 s 5; 2011 c 339 s 7; 2009 c 333 s 72; 2002 c 283 s 1; 2000 c 107 s 270; 1998 c 191 s 25; 1998 c 191 s 24; 1992 c 41 s 1; 1991 sp.s. c 7 s 9; 1990 c 84 s 6; 1989 c 365 s 1; 1987 c 506 s 105. Prior: 1985 c 464 s 9; 1985 c 243 s 1; 1984 c 240 s 6; 1981 c 310 s 12.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.
Effective date—2011 c 339: See note following RCW 43.84.092.
Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.
Effective date—1992 c 41: "This act shall take effect January 1, 1993. The director of wildlife may take steps necessary to ensure that this act is implemented on its effective date." [ 1992 c 41 s 2.]
Effective date—1991 sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 77.65.450.
Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.
Effective date—1985 c 464: See note following RCW 77.65.450.
Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.

catchline: Migratory birds—Supplemental permit.


title: RCW 77.32.370

text:
(1) A special hunting season permit is required to hunt in each special season.
(2) Persons may apply for special hunting season permits as provided by rule of the commission.
(3) Persons may apply for multiple season hunting season permits as provided by rule of the commission.
(4) Persons may apply for special hunting "quality" permits as provided by rule of the commission. The commission designates as "quality" hunts those that allow the harvest of buck deer, bull elk, or allow the harvest of male big game species that are only available for hunting by a special hunting permit. The commission may authorize a special hunting permit for goat, sheep, moose, or other big game species not specified.
(5) An application fee is required to enter a drawing for all permits in this section.
[ 2025 c 328 s 6; 2011 c 339 s 8; 1998 c 191 s 26; 1991 sp.s. c 7 s 11; 1987 c 506 s 89; 1984 c 240 s 7; 1981 c 310 s 14.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.
Effective date—2011 c 339: See note following RCW 43.84.092.
Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.
Effective date—1991 sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 77.65.450.
Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.
Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.

catchline: Special hunting season permits—Special hunting "quality" permits—Fee.


title: RCW 77.32.410

text:
In concurrent waters of the Columbia river and in Washington coastal territorial waters from the Oregon-Washington boundary to a point five nautical miles north, an Oregon angling license comparable to the Washington personal use fishing license is valid if Oregon recognizes as valid the Washington personal use fishing license in comparable Oregon waters.
If Oregon recognizes as valid the Washington personal use fishing license southward to Cape Falcon in the coastal territorial waters from the Washington-Oregon boundary and in concurrent waters of the Columbia river then Washington shall recognize a valid Oregon license comparable to the Washington personal use fishing license northward to Leadbetter Point.
Oregon licenses are not valid for the taking of food fish or game fish when angling in concurrent waters of the Columbia river from the Washington shore.
[ 1998 c 191 s 3; 1994 c 255 s 6; 1993 sp.s. c 17 s 7; 1989 c 305 s 9; 1987 c 87 s 4; 1985 c 174 s 1; 1983 1st ex.s. c 46 s 96; 1977 ex.s. c 327 s 17. Formerly RCW 75.25.120, 75.28.670.]
Notes:
Effective date—1998 c 191: "Sections 1 through 9, 11 through 23, 25 through 30, 34 through 36, 38 through 42, and 44 of this act take effect January 1, 1999." [ 1998 c 191 s 48.]
Effective date—1994 c 255 ss 1-13: See note following RCW 77.32.520.
Finding—Contingent effective date—Severability—1993 sp.s. c 17: See notes following RCW 77.32.520.
Declaration of state policy—Severability—Effective date—1977 ex.s. c 327: See notes following RCW 77.65.150.

catchline: Personal use fishing license—Reciprocity with Oregon in concurrent waters of Columbia river and coastal waters.


title: RCW 77.32.430

text:
(1) Catch record card information is necessary for proper management of the state's food fish and game fish species and shellfish resources. Catch record card administration shall be under rules adopted by the commission. Except as provided in this section, there is no charge for an initial catch record card. Each subsequent or duplicate catch record card is subject to a fee.
(2) A license to take and possess Dungeness crab is only valid in Puget Sound waters east of the Bonilla-Tatoosh line if the fisher has in possession a valid catch record card officially endorsed for Dungeness crab.
(3) Catch record cards issued with affixed temporary short-term charter stamp or guide stamp licenses are neither subject to the fee nor to the Dungeness crab endorsement fee provided for in this section. Charter boat or guide operators issuing temporary short-term charter stamp or guide stamp licenses shall affix the stamp to each catch record card issued before fishing commences. Catch record cards issued with a temporary short-term charter stamp or guide stamp are valid for one day.
(4) A catch record card for halibut is subject to a fee when purchased with an annual saltwater or combination fishing license and must be provided at no cost for those who purchase a one-day temporary combination fishing license or one-day temporary charter stamp.
(5) The department shall include provisions for recording marked and unmarked salmon in catch record cards issued after March 31, 2004.
(6)(a) The funds received from the sale of catch record cards, catch card penalty fees, and the Dungeness crab endorsement must be deposited into the limited fish and wildlife account created in RCW 77.12.170(1).
(i)(A) Eleven percent of the revenue received from the sale of each Dungeness crab endorsement must be used for the removal and disposal of derelict shellfish gear either directly by the department or under contract with a third party. The department is required to maintain a separate accounting of these funds and provide an annual report to the commission and the legislature by January 1st of every year.
(B) The remaining portion of the funds received from the sale of each Dungeness crab endorsement must be used for education, sampling, monitoring, and management of catch associated with the Dungeness crab recreational fisheries.
(ii) Funds received from the sale of halibut catch record cards must be used for monitoring and management of recreational halibut fisheries, including expanding opportunities for recreational anglers.
(b) Moneys allocated under this section shall supplement and not supplant other federal, state, and local funds used for Dungeness crab recreational fisheries management.
[ 2025 c 328 s 7; 2020 c 148 s 18; 2018 c 190 s 1; 2011 c 339 s 9; 2010 c 193 s 11; 2009 c 333 s 40; 2005 c 192 s 2; 2004 c 107 s 2; 2003 c 318 s 1; 1998 c 191 s 5; 1989 c 305 s 10. Formerly RCW 75.25.190.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.
Intent—Effective date—2020 c 148: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
Effective date—2011 c 339: See note following RCW 43.84.092.
Intent—2004 c 107: "It is the intent of the legislature to optimize the management of the recreational allocation of Dungeness crab in Washington state. To accomplish this task, it is necessary to accurately and efficiently quantify the total catch by recreational fishers for Dungeness crab using data from catch record cards. Therefore, an endorsement fee on the catch record card paid at the time of purchasing a recreational fishing license will be required for Dungeness crab to specifically identify the recreational crab harvesting population. The endorsement fee will significantly improve the precision of the catch estimates by eliminating the current practice of sampling fishers who do not participate in the recreational crab fishery." [ 2004 c 107 s 1.]
Report—2004 c 107: "After the completion of one season using the Dungeness crab endorsement fee for Puget Sound recreational Dungeness crab fisheries, the department of fish and wildlife shall evaluate the effectiveness of the endorsement fee as a method for improving the accuracy of catch estimates for the Puget Sound recreational Dungeness crab fishery. The department's report shall include how the method has affected their ability to more accurately estimate the preseason allocation of the Puget Sound recreational Dungeness crab fishery and monitor in-season catch. The department shall report their findings to the appropriate committees of the legislature by May 15, 2006." [ 2004 c 107 s 3.]
Effective date—2004 c 107: "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 May 15, 2004." [ 2004 c 107 s 4.]
Effective date—2003 c 318: "This act takes effect April 1, 2004." [ 2003 c 318 s 3.]
Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

catchline: Catch record card—Disposition of funds.


title: RCW 77.32.440

text:
Enhancement programs receive revenue using a percentage rate applied to the fee of each eligible license and deposited within each dedicated account as follows:
(1) Six and eight-tenths percent of all freshwater and combination fishing licenses, including temporary combination fishing licenses, must be deposited in the warm water game fish account created in RCW 77.44.050;
(2) Twelve percent of all saltwater and combination fishing licenses, including temporary combination fishing licenses, must be deposited in the recreational fisheries enhancement account created in RCW 77.105.150;
(3) Two and three-tenths percent of all saltwater, freshwater, and combination fishing licenses, including temporary combination fishing licenses, must be deposited in the regional fisheries enhancement group account created in RCW 77.95.090; and
(4) One and eight-tenths percent of all saltwater and combination fishing licenses, including temporary combination fishing licenses, must be deposited in the rockfish research account created in RCW 77.12.702.
[ 2025 c 328 s 8; 1999 c 235 s 2; 1998 c 191 s 13.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.
Effective date—1999 c 235: See note following RCW 77.44.050.
Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

catchline: Enhancement programs—Revenue—Deposits to dedicated accounts.


title: RCW 77.32.450

text:
(1) A big game hunting license is required to hunt for big game. A big game license allows the holder to hunt for forest grouse, unclassified wildlife, and the individual species identified within a specific big game combination license package. Each big game license includes one transport tag for each species purchased in that package. A hunter may not purchase more than one license for each big game species except as authorized by rule of the commission.
(2) In the event that the commission authorizes a special hunt permit for goat, sheep, moose, or other big game species not specified, a license is required and is subject to a fee.
(3) Multiple season big game tag: The commission may, by rule, offer permits for hunters to hunt deer or elk during more than one general season. Only one deer or elk may be harvested annually under a multiple season big game tag.
(4) Authorization to hunt the species set out under subsection (2) of this section is by special permit issued under RCW 77.32.370.
[ 2025 c 328 s 9; 2011 c 339 s 10; 2005 c 140 s 1; 2000 c 109 s 1; 1998 c 191 s 14.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.
Effective date—2011 c 339: See note following RCW 43.84.092.
Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

catchline: Big game hunting license—Special hunt permit—Subject to fee—Multiple season big game tag—Authorization.


title: RCW 77.32.460

text:
(1) A small game hunting license is required to hunt for all classified wild animals and wild birds, except big game. A small game license also allows the holder to hunt for unclassified wildlife.
(2)(a) In addition to a small game license, a turkey tag is required to hunt for turkey.
(b) Two-thirds of the moneys received from turkey tags must be appropriated solely for turkey or upland game bird management within the limited fish and wildlife account created in RCW 77.12.170(1). The remainder of the moneys received from turkey tags must be appropriated to the fish, wildlife, and conservation account created in RCW 77.12.170(3). Moneys received from turkey tags may not supplant existing funds provided for these purposes.
[ 2025 c 328 s 10; 2020 c 148 s 19; 2011 c 339 s 11; 2006 c 15 s 1; 2000 c 109 s 2; 1998 c 191 s 15.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.
Intent—Effective date—2020 c 148: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
Effective date—2011 c 339: See note following RCW 43.84.092.
Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

catchline: Small game hunting license—Turkey tags—Appropriation of moneys received.


title: RCW 77.32.470

text:
(1) A personal use saltwater, freshwater, combination, or temporary license is required for all persons 16 years of age or older to fish for or possess fish taken for personal use from state waters or offshore waters.
(a) A combination license allows the holder to fish for or possess fish, shellfish, and seaweed from state waters or offshore waters.
(b) A saltwater license allows the holder to fish for or possess fish taken from saltwater areas.
(c) A freshwater license allows the holder to fish for, take, or possess food fish or game fish species in all freshwater areas.
(2)(a) A temporary combination fishing license is valid for one to three consecutive days and allows the holder to fish for or possess fish, shellfish, and seaweed taken from state waters or offshore waters.
(b) A charter stamp is valid for a one-day temporary combination fishing license for residents and nonresidents for use on a charter boat as defined in RCW 77.65.150. A guide stamp is valid for a one-day temporary combination fishing license for residents and nonresidents for use with a guide as defined in RCW 77.65.370, 77.65.480, or 77.65.590.
(c) The temporary combination fishing license fee for active duty military personnel serving in any branch of the United States armed forces is the resident rate. Active duty military personnel must provide a valid military identification card at the time of purchase of the temporary license to qualify for the resident rate.
(3) The commission may adopt rules to allow the use of two fishing poles per fishing license holder for use on selected state waters. If authorized by the commission, license holders must purchase a two-pole endorsement to use a second pole. The proceeds from the sale of the two-pole endorsement must be deposited into the limited fish and wildlife account created in RCW 77.12.170(1) and used for the operation and maintenance of state-owned fish hatcheries.
[ 2025 c 328 s 11; 2020 c 148 s 20; 2011 c 339 s 12; 2009 c 333 s 6; 2008 c 35 s 1; 2007 c 442 s 5; 2005 c 192 s 1; 2003 c 181 s 1; 1998 c 191 s 16.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.
Intent—Effective date—2020 c 148: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
Effective date—2011 c 339: See note following RCW 43.84.092.
Findings—Intent—Effective date—2007 c 442: See notes following RCW 77.12.702.
Effective date—2003 c 181: "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 [May 9, 2003]." [ 2003 c 181 s 2.]
Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

catchline: Personal use saltwater, freshwater, combination, or temporary license—Charter stamp—Rule-making authority—Combination license for fishing—Two fishing poles per fishing license holder.


title: RCW 77.32.480

text:
(1) Upon written application, a combination fishing license shall be issued at the reduced rate of $6.90 and all hunting licenses shall be issued at the reduced rate of a youth hunting license fee for the following individuals:
(a) A resident 65 years old or older who has a qualifying discharge, as defined in RCW 73.04.005, from the United States armed forces and has a service-connected disability;
(b) A resident who has a qualifying discharge, as defined in RCW 73.04.005, from the United States armed forces and has a 30 percent or more service-connected disability;
(c) A resident with a disability who permanently uses a wheelchair;
(d) A resident who is blind or visually impaired; and
(e) A resident with a developmental disability as defined in RCW 71A.10.020 with documentation of the disability certified by a physician licensed to practice in this state.
(2) Upon department verification of eligibility, a nonstate resident veteran with a disability who otherwise satisfies the criteria of subsection (1)(a) and (b) of this section must be issued a combination fishing license or any hunting license at the same cost charged to a nondisabled Washington resident for the same license.
(3) Upon written application and department verification, the following recreational hunting licenses must be issued at no cost to a resident member of the state guard or national guard, as defined in RCW 38.04.010, as long as the state guard or national guard member is: An active full-time state guard or national guard employee; or a state guard or national guard member whose status requires the state guard or national guard member to participate in drill training on a part-time basis:
(a) A small game hunting license under RCW 77.32.460(1);
(b) A supplemental migratory bird permit under RCW 77.32.350; and
(c) A big game hunting license under RCW 77.32.450(1).
[ 2025 c 328 s 12; 2024 c 146 s 35; 2016 c 78 s 1; 2013 c 101 s 1; 2007 c 254 s 3; 1998 c 191 s 18.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.
Intent—2024 c 146: See note following RCW 73.04.005.
Effective date—2013 c 101: "This act takes effect February 1, 2014." [ 2013 c 101 s 2.]
Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

catchline: Reduced rate licenses.


title: RCW 77.32.500

text:
In order to simplify fishing license requirements in transition areas between salt water and fresh water, the commission may adopt rules designating specific waters where either a fresh water or a salt water license is valid.
[ 1998 c 191 s 41.]
Notes:
Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.

catchline: Saltwater, freshwater transition areas—Rule-making authority.


title: RCW 77.32.520

text:
(1) A personal use shellfish and seaweed license is required for all persons other than residents or nonresidents under 16 years of age to fish for, take, dig for, or possess seaweed or shellfish, including razor clams, for personal use from state waters or offshore waters including national park beaches.
(2) A razor clam license allows a person to harvest only razor clams for personal use from state waters, including national park beaches.
(3) A personal use shellfish and seaweed license or razor clam license must be in immediate possession of the licensee and available for inspection while a licensee is harvesting shellfish or seaweed. However, the license does not need to be visible at all times.
[ 2025 c 328 s 13; 2011 c 339 s 13; 2007 c 336 s 1; 2004 c 248 s 1; 2000 c 107 s 27; 1999 c 243 s 3; 1998 c 191 s 2; 1994 c 255 s 4; 1993 sp.s. c 17 s 3. Formerly RCW 75.25.092.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 328: See note following RCW 77.08.010.
Effective date—2011 c 339: See note following RCW 43.84.092.
Report—2007 c 336: "The department of fish and wildlife shall monitor the sale of personal use shellfish and seaweed licenses and razor clam licenses for four years from July 22, 2007. If in any of the four years the number of license sales drop more than ten percent from July 22, 2007, then the department of fish and wildlife shall report the sales and revenue data for the licenses along with any relevant information regarding the reasons for the decrease to the legislature." [ 2007 c 336 s 2.]
Finding—Effective date—1999 c 243: See notes following RCW 77.32.050.
Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.
Effective date—1994 c 255 ss 1-13: "Sections 1 through 13 of this act shall take effect January 1, 1995." [ 1994 c 255 s 23.]
Finding—1993 sp.s. c 17: "The legislature finds that additional cost savings can be realized by simplifying the department of fisheries recreational licensing system. The legislature finds that significant benefits will accrue to recreational fishers from streamlining the department of fisheries recreational licensing system. The legislature finds recreational license fees and commercial landing taxes have not been increased in recent years. The legislature finds that reduction in important department of fisheries programs can be avoided by increasing license fees and commercial landing taxes. The legislature finds that it is in the best interest of the state to avoid significant reductions in current department of fisheries activities." [ 1993 sp.s. c 17 s 1.]
Contingent effective date—1993 sp.s. c 17: "This act shall take effect January 1, 1994, except that sections 13 through 30 of this act shall take effect only if Senate Bill No. 5124 does not become law by August 1, 1993." [ 1993 sp.s. c 17 s 32.] Senate Bill No. 5124 [1993 c 340] did become law; sections 13 through 30 of 1993 sp.s. c 17 did not become law.
Severability—1993 sp.s. c 17: "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 sp.s. c 17 s 53.]

catchline: Personal use shellfish and seaweed license—Razor clam license—License available for inspection.


title: RCW 77.32.525

text:
The director shall administer rules adopted by the commission governing the time, place, and manner of holding hunting and fishing contests and competitive field trials involving live wildlife for hunting dogs. The department shall prohibit contests and field trials that are not in the best interests of wildlife.
[ 1987 c 506 s 48; 1980 c 78 s 67. Formerly RCW 77.12.530.]
Notes:
Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.
Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.
Contests and field trials: RCW 77.32.540.

catchline: Hunting and fishing contests—Field trials for dogs—Rules—Limitation.


title: RCW 77.32.530

text:
(1) The commission in consultation with the director may authorize hunting of big game animals and wild turkeys through auction. The department may conduct the auction for the hunt or contract with a nonprofit wildlife conservation organization to conduct the auction for the hunt.
(2) The commission in consultation with the director may authorize hunting of up to a total of thirty big game animals and wild turkeys per year through raffle. The department may conduct raffles or contract with a nonprofit wildlife conservation organization to conduct raffles for hunting these animals. In consultation with the gambling commission, the director may adopt rules for the implementation of raffles involving hunting.
(3) The director shall establish the procedures for the hunts, which shall require any participants to obtain any required license, permit, or tag. Representatives of the department may participate in the hunt upon the request of the commission to ensure that the animals to be killed are properly identified.
(4) After deducting the expenses of conducting an auction or raffle, any revenues retained by a nonprofit organization, as specified under contract with the department, shall be devoted solely for wildlife conservation, consistent with its qualification as a bona fide nonprofit organization for wildlife conservation.
(5) The department's share of revenues from auctions and raffles shall be deposited in the limited fish and wildlife account created in RCW 77.12.170(1). The revenues shall be used to improve game management and shall supplement, rather than replace, other funds budgeted for management of game species. The commission may solicit input from groups or individuals with special interest in and expertise on a species in determining how to use these revenues.
(6) A nonprofit wildlife conservation organization may petition the commission to authorize an auction or raffle for a special hunt for big game animals and wild turkeys.
[ 2020 c 148 s 21; 2009 c 333 s 41; 1996 c 101 s 5. Formerly RCW 77.12.770.]
Notes:
Intent—Effective date—2020 c 148: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
Findings—1996 c 101: "The legislature finds that it is in the best interest of recreational hunters to provide them with the variety of hunting opportunities provided by auctions and raffles. Raffles provide an affordable opportunity for most hunters to participate in special hunts for big game animals and wild turkeys. The legislature also finds that wildlife management and recreation are not adequately funded and that such auctions and raffles can increase revenues to improve wildlife management and recreation." [ 1996 c 101 s 1.]

catchline: Hunting big game—Auction or raffle—Procedure.


title: RCW 77.32.535

text:
If a private entity has a private lands wildlife management area agreement in effect with the department, the commission may authorize the private entity to conduct raffles for access to hunt for big game animals and wild turkeys to meet the conditions of the agreement. The private entity shall comply with all applicable rules adopted under RCW 77.32.530 for the implementation of raffles; however, raffle hunts conducted pursuant to this section shall not be counted toward the number of raffle hunts the commission may authorize under RCW 77.32.530. The director shall establish the procedures for the hunts, which shall require any participants to obtain any required license, permit, or tag. Representatives of the department may participate in the hunt upon the request of the commission to ensure that the animals to be killed are properly identified.
[ 2001 c 253 s 52; 1996 c 101 s 6. Formerly RCW 77.12.780.]
Notes:
Findings—1996 c 101: See note following RCW 77.32.530.

catchline: Private lands—Raffle authorization to hunt big game.


title: RCW 77.32.540

text:
A person shall not promote, conduct, hold, or sponsor a contest for the hunting or fishing of wildlife or a competitive field trial involving live wildlife for hunting dogs without first obtaining a hunting or fishing contest permit. Contests and field trials shall be held in accordance with established rules.
[ 1998 c 190 s 118; 1987 c 506 s 58; 1980 c 78 s 69; 1955 c 36 s 77.16.010. Prior: 1947 c 275 s 39; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 5992-49. Formerly RCW 77.16.010.]
Notes:
Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.
Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.
Contests and field trials: RCW 77.32.525.

catchline: Hunting and fishing contests—Field trials for dogs—Permit—Rules.


title: RCW 77.32.545

text:
A property owner, lessee, or tenant may remove a trap placed on the owner's, lessee's, or tenant's posted or fenced property by a trapper.
Trappers shall attach to the chain of their traps or devices a legible metal tag with either the department identification number of the trapper or the name and address of the trapper in English letters not less than one-eighth inch in height.
When a property owner, lessee, or tenant presents a trapper identification number to the department for a trap found upon the property of the owner, lessee, or tenant and requests identification of the trapper, the department shall provide the requestor with the name and address of the trapper. Prior to disclosure of the trapper's name and address, the department shall obtain the name and address of the requesting individual in writing and after disclosing the trapper's name and address to the requesting individual, the requesting individual's name and address shall be disclosed in writing to the trapper whose name and address was disclosed.
[ 1998 c 190 s 121; 1993 sp.s. c 2 s 75; 1988 c 36 s 51; 1987 c 372 s 1; 1980 c 78 s 85; 1955 c 36 s 77.16.170. Prior: 1947 c 275 s 56; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 5992-65. Formerly RCW 77.16.170.]
Notes:
Effective date—1993 sp.s. c 2 ss 1-6, 8-59, and 61-79: See RCW 43.300.900.
Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.

catchline: Removal of trap—Identification of traps—Disclosure of identities.


title: RCW 77.32.550

text:
(1) A group fishing permit allows a group of individuals to fish, and harvest shellfish, without individual licenses or the payment of individual license fees. The department must also provide, without charge, any applicable catch record cards.
(2) The director must issue a group fishing permit on a seasonal basis to: A state-operated facility or state-licensed nonprofit facility or program for persons with physical or mental disabilities, hospital patients, seriously or terminally ill persons, persons who are dependent on the state because of emotional or physical developmental disabilities, or senior citizens who are in the care of the facility; or a state or local agency or nonprofit organization operating a program for at-risk youth. The permit is valid only for use during open season.
(3) The director may set conditions and issue a group fishing permit to groups working in partnership with and participating in department outdoor education programs. At the discretion of the director, a processing fee may be applied.
(4) The commission may adopt rules that provide the conditions under which a group fishing permit is issued.
[ 2015 c 98 s 1; 2007 c 254 s 4; 2006 c 16 s 1; 2002 c 266 s 1.]

catchline: Group fishing permit.