reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.50 - Public Lands for State or City Parks. › 79A.50.110 - Exchange of lands to secure private lands for parks and recreation purposes.

RCW 79A.50.110
Exchange of lands to secure private lands for parks and recreation purposes.
For the purpose of securing and preserving privately owned lands for parks and recreation purposes, the department of natural resources is authorized, with the advice and approval of the state board of natural resources, to exchange any state lands of equal value for such lands. Lands acquired by exchange as herein provided shall be withdrawn from lease and sale and reserved for park and recreation purposes.
[ 1967 ex.s. c 64 § 2. Formerly RCW 79.08.109.]
NOTES:
Construction—Severability—1967 ex.s. c 64: See notes following RCW 79.10.140.
Outdoor recreation facilities, construction and maintenance by department of natural resources: RCW 79.10.140.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.55 - Scenic River System. › 79A.55.005 - Legislative finding—Purpose.

RCW 79A.55.005
Legislative finding—Purpose.
The legislature hereby finds that many rivers of this state, with their immediate environs, possess outstanding natural, scenic, historic, ecological, and recreational values of present and future benefit to the public. The legislature further finds that the policy of permitting the construction of dams and other impoundment facilities at appropriate sections of the rivers of this state needs to be complemented by a policy that would protect and preserve the natural character of such rivers and fulfill other conservation purposes. It is hereby declared to be the policy of this state that certain selected rivers of the state which, with their immediate environs, possess the aforementioned characteristics, shall be preserved in as natural a condition as practical and that overuse of such rivers, which tends to downgrade their natural condition, shall be discouraged.
The purpose of this chapter is to establish a program for managing publicly owned land on rivers included in the state's scenic river system, to indicate the river segments to be initially included in that system, to prescribe a procedure for adding additional components to the system, and to protect the rights of private property owners.
[ 1977 ex.s. c 161 § 1. Formerly RCW 79.72.010.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.55 - Scenic River System. › 79A.55.010 - Definitions.

RCW 79A.55.010
Definitions.
The definitions set forth in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(1) "Commission" means the state parks and recreation commission.
(2) "Participating local government" means the legislative authority of any city or county, a portion of whose territorial jurisdiction is bounded by or includes a river or river segment of the state's scenic river system.
(3) "River" means a flowing body of water or a section, segment, or portion thereof.
(4) "River area" means a river and the land area in its immediate environs as established by the participating agencies not exceeding a width of one-quarter mile landward from the streamway on either side of the river.
(5) "Scenic easement" means the negotiated right to control the use of land, including the air space above the land, for the purpose of protecting the scenic view throughout the visual corridor.
(6) "Streamway" means that stream-dependent corridor of single or multiple, wet or dry, channel or channels within which the usual seasonal or stormwater runoff peaks are contained, and within which environment the flora, fauna, soil, and topography is dependent on or influenced by the height and velocity of the fluctuating river currents.
(7) "System" means all the rivers and river areas in the state designated by the legislature for inclusion as scenic rivers but does not include tributaries of a designated river unless specifically included by the legislature. The inclusion of a river in the system does not mean that other rivers or tributaries in a drainage basin shall be required to be part of the management program developed for the system unless the rivers and tributaries within the drainage basin are specifically designated for inclusion by the legislature.
(8) "Visual corridor" means that area which can be seen in a normal summer month by a person of normal vision walking either bank of a river included in the system. The visual corridor shall not exceed the river area.
[ 1999 c 249 § 801; 1999 c 151 § 1701; 1994 c 264 § 64; 1988 c 36 § 57; 1987 c 57 § 1; 1984 c 7 § 371; 1977 ex.s. c 161 § 2. Formerly RCW 79.72.020.]
NOTES:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 1999 c 151 § 1701 and by 1999 c 249 § 801, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Severability—1999 c 249: See note following RCW 79A.05.010.
Part headings not law—Effective date—1999 c 151: See notes following RCW 18.28.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.55 - Scenic River System. › 79A.55.040 - State agencies and local governments to pursue policies to conserve and enhance included river areas—Shoreline management act—Private lands—Trust lands.

RCW 79A.55.040
State agencies and local governments to pursue policies to conserve and enhance included river areas—Shoreline management act—Private lands—Trust lands.
(1) All state government agencies and local governments are hereby directed to pursue policies with regard to their respective activities, functions, powers, and duties which are designed to conserve and enhance the conditions of rivers which have been included in the system, in accordance with the management policies and the rules adopted by the commission for such rivers. Local agencies are directed to pursue such policies with respect to all lands in the river area owned or leased by such local agencies. Nothing in this chapter shall authorize the modification of a shoreline management plan adopted by a local government and approved by the state pursuant to chapter 90.58 RCW without the approval of the department of ecology and local government. The policies adopted pursuant to this chapter shall be integrated, as fully as possible, with those of the shoreline management act of 1971.
(2) Nothing in this chapter shall grant to the commission the power to restrict the use of private land without either the specific written consent of the owner thereof or the acquisition of rights in real property authorized by RCW 79A.55.030.
(3) Nothing in this chapter shall prohibit the department of natural resources from exercising its full responsibilities and obligations for the management of state trust lands.
[ 1999 c 249 § 804; 1999 c 151 § 1704; 1977 ex.s. c 161 § 5. Formerly RCW 79.72.050.]
NOTES:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 1999 c 151 § 1704 and by 1999 c 249 § 804, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Severability—1999 c 249: See note following RCW 79A.05.010.
Part headings not law—Effective date—1999 c 151: See notes following RCW 18.28.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.55 - Scenic River System. › 79A.55.050 - Criteria for inclusion of rivers within system.

RCW 79A.55.050
Criteria for inclusion of rivers within system.
Rivers of a scenic nature are eligible for inclusion in the system. Ideally, a scenic river:
(1) Is free-flowing without diversions that hinder recreational use;
(2) Has a streamway that is relatively unmodified by riprapping and other stream bank protection;
(3) Has water of sufficient quality and quantity to be deemed worthy of protection;
(4) Has a relatively natural setting and adequate open space;
(5) Requires some coordinated plan of management in order to enhance and preserve the river area; and
(6) Has some lands along its length already in public ownership, or the possibility for purchase or dedication of public access and/or scenic easements.
[ 1977 ex.s. c 161 § 6. Formerly RCW 79.72.060.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.55 - Scenic River System. › 79A.55.060 - Authority of department of fish and wildlife unaffected.

RCW 79A.55.060
Authority of department of fish and wildlife unaffected.
Nothing contained in this chapter shall affect the authority of the department of fish and wildlife to construct facilities or make improvements to facilitate the passage or propagation of fish nor shall anything in this chapter be construed to interfere with the powers, duties, and authority of the department of fish and wildlife to regulate, manage, conserve, and provide for the harvest of fish or wildlife within any area designated as being in the state's scenic river system. No hunting shall be permitted in any state park.
[ 1999 c 249 § 805; 1988 c 36 § 58; 1977 ex.s. c 161 § 7. Formerly RCW 79.72.070.]
NOTES:
Severability—1999 c 249: See note following RCW 79A.05.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.55 - Scenic River System. › 79A.55.070 - Rivers designated as part of system.

RCW 79A.55.070
Rivers designated as part of system.
The following rivers of the state of Washington are hereby designated as being in the scenic river system of the state of Washington:
(1) The Skykomish river from the junction of the north and south forks of the Skykomish river:
(a) Downstream approximately fourteen miles to its junction with the Sultan river;
(b) Upstream approximately twenty miles on the south fork to the junction of the Tye and Foss rivers;
(c) Upstream approximately eleven miles on the north fork to its junction with Bear creek;
(2) The Beckler river from its junction with the south fork of the Skykomish river upstream approximately eight miles to its junction with Rapid river;
(3) The Tye river from its junction with the south fork of the Skykomish river upstream approximately fourteen miles to Tye Lake; and
(4) The Little Spokane river from the upstream boundary of the state park boat put-in site near Rutter parkway and downstream to its confluence with the Spokane river.
[ 1991 c 206 § 1; 1977 ex.s. c 161 § 8. Formerly RCW 79.72.080.]
NOTES:
Green River Gorge conservation area: RCW 79A.05.700 through 79A.05.715.
Washington state Yakima river conservation area: RCW 79A.05.750 through 79A.05.795.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.55 - Scenic River System. › 79A.55.080 - Inclusion of state's scenic rivers in national wild and scenic river system not precluded.

RCW 79A.55.080
Inclusion of state's scenic rivers in national wild and scenic river system not precluded.
Nothing in this chapter shall preclude a section or segment of the state's scenic rivers included in the system from becoming a part of the national wild and scenic river system.
[ 1977 ex.s. c 161 § 9. Formerly RCW 79.72.090.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.55 - Scenic River System. › 79A.55.090 - Funds from certain accounts not to be used.

RCW 79A.55.090
Funds from certain accounts not to be used.
No funds shall be expended from the limited fish and wildlife account created in RCW 77.12.170(1) or the fish, wildlife, and conservation account created in RCW 77.12.170(3) to carry out the provisions of this chapter.
[ 2020 c 148 § 26; 1988 c 36 § 59; 1977 ex.s. c 161 § 10. Formerly RCW 79.72.100.]
NOTES:
Intent—Effective date—2020 c 148: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.020 - Violations of chapter punishable as misdemeanor—Circumstances—Violations designated as civil infractions.

RCW 79A.60.020
Violations of chapter punishable as misdemeanor—Circumstances—Violations designated as civil infractions.
(1) A violation of this chapter designated as an infraction is a misdemeanor, punishable under RCW 9.92.030, if the current violation is the person's third violation of the same provision of this chapter during the past three hundred sixty-five days.
(2) A violation designated in this chapter as a civil infraction shall constitute a civil infraction pursuant to chapter 7.84 RCW.
[ 1999 c 249 § 1501; 1993 c 244 § 6. Formerly RCW 88.12.015.]
NOTES:
Severability—1999 c 249: See note following RCW 79A.05.010.
Intent—1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.030 - Operation of vessel in a negligent manner—Penalty.

RCW 79A.60.030
Operation of vessel in a negligent manner—Penalty.
A person shall not operate a vessel in a negligent manner. For the purposes of this section, to "operate in a negligent manner" means operating a vessel in disregard of careful and prudent operation, or in disregard of careful and prudent rates of speed that are no greater than is reasonable and proper under the conditions existing at the point of operation, taking into account the amount and character of traffic, size of the lake or body of water, freedom from obstruction to view ahead, effects of vessel wake, and so as not to unduly or unreasonably endanger life, limb, property or other rights of any person entitled to the use of such waters. Except as provided in RCW 79A.60.020, a violation of this section is an infraction under chapter 7.84 RCW.
[ 2000 c 11 § 93; 1993 c 244 § 7; 1933 c 72 § 2; RRS § 9851-2. Formerly RCW 88.12.020.]
NOTES:
Intent—1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.050 - Homicide by watercraft—Penalty.

RCW 79A.60.050
Homicide by watercraft—Penalty.
(1) When the death of any person ensues within three years as a proximate result of injury proximately caused by the operating of any vessel by any person, the operator is guilty of homicide by watercraft if he or she was operating the vessel:
(a) While under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug, as defined by RCW 79A.60.040;
(b) In a reckless manner; or
(c) With disregard for the safety of others.
(2) When the death is caused by a skier towed by a vessel, the operator of the vessel is not guilty of homicide by watercraft.
(3) A violation of this section is punishable as a class A felony according to chapter 9A.20 RCW.
[ 2000 c 11 § 94; 1998 c 219 § 1. Formerly RCW 88.12.029.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.060 - Assault by watercraft—Penalty.

RCW 79A.60.060
Assault by watercraft—Penalty.
(1) "Serious bodily injury" means bodily injury which involves a substantial risk of death, serious permanent disfigurement, or protracted loss or impairment of the function of any part or organ of the body.
(2) A person is guilty of assault by watercraft if he or she operates any vessel:
(a) In a reckless manner, and this conduct is the proximate cause of serious bodily injury to another; or
(b) While under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug, as defined by RCW 79A.60.040, and this conduct is the proximate cause of serious bodily injury to another.
(3) When the injury is caused by a skier towed by a vessel, the operator of the vessel is not guilty of assault by watercraft.
(4) A violation of this section is punishable as a class B felony according to chapter 9A.20 RCW.
[ 2000 c 11 § 95; 1998 c 219 § 2. Formerly RCW 88.12.032.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.080 - Failure to stop for law enforcement officer.

RCW 79A.60.080
Failure to stop for law enforcement officer.
Any operator of a vessel who willfully fails to stop when requested or signaled to do so by a person reasonably identifiable as a law enforcement officer is guilty of a gross misdemeanor.
[ 1990 c 235 § 1. Formerly RCW 88.12.035, 88.12.110, and 88.08.070.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.090 - Eluding a law enforcement vessel.

RCW 79A.60.090
Eluding a law enforcement vessel.
Any operator of a vessel who willfully fails or refuses to immediately bring the vessel to a stop and who operates the vessel in a manner indicating a wanton or willful disregard for the lives or property of others while attempting to elude a pursuing law enforcement vessel, after being given a visual or audible signal to bring the vessel to a stop, shall be guilty of a class C felony punishable under chapter 9A.20 RCW. The signal given by the law enforcement officer may be by hand, voice, emergency light, or siren. The officer giving such a signal shall be in uniform and his or her vessel shall be appropriately marked showing it to be an official law enforcement vessel.
[ 1990 c 235 § 2. Formerly RCW 88.12.045, 88.12.120, and 88.08.080.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.100 - Enforcement—Chapter to supplement federal law.

RCW 79A.60.100
Enforcement—Chapter to supplement federal law.
(1) Every law enforcement officer of this state and its political subdivisions has the authority to enforce this chapter. Law enforcement officers may enforce recreational boating rules adopted by the commission. Such law enforcement officers include, but are not limited to, county sheriffs, officers of other local law enforcement entities, fish and wildlife officers, through the director, the state patrol, and state park rangers. In the exercise of this responsibility, all such officers may stop and board any vessel and direct it to a suitable pier or anchorage to enforce this chapter.
(2) This chapter shall be construed to supplement federal laws and regulations. To the extent this chapter is inconsistent with federal laws and regulations, the federal laws and regulations shall control.
[ 2001 c 253 § 60; 1994 c 264 § 80; 1993 c 244 § 9; 1988 c 36 § 73; 1986 c 217 § 10. Formerly RCW 88.12.055, 88.12.330, and 91.14.100.]
NOTES:
Intent—1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.110 - Equipment standards—Rules—Penalty.

RCW 79A.60.110
Equipment standards—Rules—Penalty.
In addition to the equipment standards prescribed under this chapter, the commission shall adopt rules specifying equipment standards for vessels. Except where the violation is classified as a misdemeanor under this chapter, violation of any equipment standard adopted by the commission is an infraction under chapter 7.84 RCW.
[ 1993 c 244 § 10. Formerly RCW 88.12.065.]
NOTES:
Intent—1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.120 - Tampering with vessel lights or signals—Exhibiting false lights or signals—Penalty.

RCW 79A.60.120
Tampering with vessel lights or signals—Exhibiting false lights or signals—Penalty.
An operator or owner who endangers a vessel, or the persons on board the vessel, by showing, masking, extinguishing, altering, or removing any light or signal or by exhibiting any false light or signal, is guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable as provided in RCW 9.92.030.
[ 1993 c 244 § 11. Formerly RCW 88.12.075.]
NOTES:
Intent—1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.140 - Personal flotation devices—Inspection and approval—Rules.

RCW 79A.60.140
Personal flotation devices—Inspection and approval—Rules.
(1) The commission shall adopt rules providing for its inspection and approval of the personal flotation devices that may be used to satisfy the requirements of this chapter and governing the manner in which such devices shall be used. The commission shall prescribe the different types of devices that are appropriate for the different uses, such as water skiing or operation of a personal watercraft. In adopting its rules the commission shall consider the United States coast guard rules or regulations. The commission may approve devices inspected and approved by the coast guard without conducting any inspection of the devices itself.
(2) In situations where personal flotation devices are required under provisions of this chapter, the devices shall be in good and serviceable condition and of appropriate size. If they are not, then they shall not be considered as personal flotation devices under such provisions.
[ 1993 c 244 § 12. Formerly RCW 88.12.095.]
NOTES:
Intent—1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.150 - Failure of vessel to contain safety equipment—Owner/operator may be cited for applicable infraction or crime.

RCW 79A.60.150
Failure of vessel to contain safety equipment—Owner/operator may be cited for applicable infraction or crime.
If a vessel does not contain the safety equipment required under this chapter and the rules of the commission, and the operator is not the owner of the vessel but is operating the vessel with the express or implied permission of the owner, then either the owner or the operator, or both, may be cited for the applicable infraction or charged with the applicable crime.
[ 2013 c 278 § 6; 1993 c 244 § 13. Formerly RCW 88.12.105.]
NOTES:
Intent—1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.160 - Personal flotation devices required—Penalty.

RCW 79A.60.160
Personal flotation devices required—Penalty.
(1) No person may operate or permit the operation of a vessel on the waters of the state without a personal flotation device on board for each person on the vessel. Each personal flotation device shall be in serviceable condition, of an appropriate size, and readily accessible.
(2) Except as provided in RCW 79A.60.020, a violation of subsection (1) of this section is an infraction under chapter 7.84 RCW if the vessel is not carrying passengers for hire.
(3) A violation of subsection (1) of this section is a misdemeanor punishable under RCW 9.92.030, if the vessel is carrying passengers for hire.
(4) No person shall operate a vessel under nineteen feet in length on the waters of this state with a child twelve years old and under, unless the child is wearing a personal flotation device that meets or exceeds the United States coast guard approval standards of the appropriate size, while the vessel is underway. For the purposes of this section, a personal flotation device is not considered readily accessible for children twelve years old and under unless the device is worn by the child while the vessel is underway. The personal flotation device must be worn at all times by a child twelve years old and under whenever the vessel is underway and the child is on an open deck or open cockpit of the vessel. The following circumstances are excepted:
(a) While a child is below deck or in the cabin of a boat with an enclosed cabin;
(b) While a child is on a United States coast guard inspected passenger-carrying vessel operating on the navigable waters of the United States; or
(c) While on board a vessel at a time and place where no person would reasonably expect a danger of drowning to occur.
(5) Except as provided in RCW 79A.60.020, a violation of subsection (4) of this section is an infraction under chapter 7.84 RCW. Enforcement of subsection (4) of this section by law enforcement officers may be accomplished as a primary action, and need not be accompanied by the suspected violation of some other offense.
[ 2000 c 11 § 98; 1999 c 310 § 1; 1993 c 244 § 14; 1933 c 72 § 5; RRS § 9851-5. Formerly RCW 88.12.115 and 88.12.050.]
NOTES:
Intent—1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.180 - Loading or powering vessel beyond safe operating ability—Penalties.

RCW 79A.60.180
Loading or powering vessel beyond safe operating ability—Penalties.
(1) A person shall not load or permit to be loaded a vessel with passengers or cargo beyond its safe carrying ability or carry passengers or cargo in an unsafe manner taking into consideration weather and other existing operating conditions.
(2) A person shall not operate or permit to be operated a vessel equipped with a motor or other propulsion machinery of a power beyond the vessel's ability to operate safely, taking into consideration the vessel's type, use, and construction, the weather conditions, and other existing operating conditions.
(3) A violation of subsection (1) or (2) of this section is an infraction punishable as provided under chapter 7.84 RCW except as provided under RCW 79A.60.020 or where the overloading or overpowering is reasonably advisable to effect a rescue or for some similar emergency purpose.
(4) If it appears reasonably certain to any law enforcement officer that a person is operating a vessel clearly loaded or powered beyond its safe operating ability and in the judgment of that officer the operation creates an especially hazardous condition, the officer may direct the operator to take immediate and reasonable steps necessary for the safety of the individuals on board the vessel, including directing the operator to return to shore or a mooring and to remain there until the situation creating the hazard is corrected or ended. Failure to follow the direction of an officer under this subsection is a misdemeanor punishable as provided under RCW 9.92.030.
[ 2000 c 11 § 100; 1993 c 244 § 16. Formerly RCW 88.12.135.]
NOTES:
Intent—1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.190 - Operation of personal watercraft—Prohibited activities—Penalties.

RCW 79A.60.190
Operation of personal watercraft—Prohibited activities—Penalties.
(1) A person shall not operate a personal watercraft unless each person aboard the personal watercraft is wearing a personal flotation device approved by the commission. Except as provided for in RCW 79A.60.020, a violation of this subsection is a civil infraction punishable under RCW 7.84.100.
(2) A person operating a personal watercraft equipped by the manufacturer with a lanyard-type engine cutoff switch shall attach the lanyard to his or her person, clothing, or personal flotation device as appropriate for the specific vessel. It is unlawful for any person to remove or disable a cutoff switch that was installed by the manufacturer.
(3) A person shall not operate a personal watercraft during darkness.
(4) A person under the age of fourteen shall not operate a personal watercraft on the waters of this state.
(5) A person shall not operate a personal watercraft in a reckless manner, including recklessly weaving through congested vessel traffic, recklessly jumping the wake of another vessel unreasonably or unnecessarily close to the vessel or when visibility around the vessel is obstructed, or recklessly swerving at the last possible moment to avoid collision.
(6) A person shall not lease, hire, or rent a personal watercraft to a person under the age of sixteen.
(7) Subsections (1) through (6) of this section shall not apply to a performer engaged in a professional exhibition or a person participating in a regatta, race, marine parade, tournament, or exhibition authorized or otherwise permitted by the appropriate agency having jurisdiction and authority to authorize such events.
(8) Violations of subsections (2) through (6) of this section constitute a misdemeanor under RCW 9.92.030.
[ 2000 c 11 § 101; 1993 c 244 § 17. Formerly RCW 88.12.145.]
NOTES:
Intent—1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.200 - Duty of operator involved in collision, accident, or other casualty—Immunity from liability of persons rendering assistance—Penalties.

RCW 79A.60.200
Duty of operator involved in collision, accident, or other casualty—Immunity from liability of persons rendering assistance—Penalties.
(1) The operator of a vessel involved in a collision, accident, or other casualty, to the extent the operator can do so without serious danger to the operator's own vessel or persons aboard, shall render all practical and necessary assistance to persons affected by the collision, accident, or casualty to save them from danger caused by the incident. Under no circumstances may the rendering of assistance or other compliance with this section be evidence of the liability of such operator for the collision, accident, or casualty. The operator shall also give all pertinent accident information, as specified by rule by the commission, to the law enforcement agency having jurisdiction: PROVIDED, That this requirement shall not apply to operators of vessels when they are participating in an organized competitive event authorized or otherwise permitted by the appropriate agency having jurisdiction and authority to authorize such events. These duties are in addition to any duties otherwise imposed by law. Except as provided for in RCW 79A.60.020 and subsection (3) of this section, a violation of this subsection is a civil infraction punishable under RCW 7.84.100.
(2) Any person who complies with subsection (1) of this section or who gratuitously and in good faith renders assistance at the scene of a vessel collision, accident, or other casualty, without objection of the person assisted, shall not be held liable for any civil damages as a result of the rendering of assistance or for any act or omission in providing or arranging salvage, towage, medical treatment, or other assistance, where the assisting person acts as any reasonably prudent person would have acted under the same or similar circumstances.
(3) An operator of a vessel is guilty of a class C felony and is punishable pursuant to RCW 9A.20.021 if the operator: (a) Is involved in a collision that results in injury to a person; (b) knew or reasonably should have known that a person was injured in the collision; and (c) leaves the scene of the collision without rendering all practical and necessary assistance to the injured person as required pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, under circumstances in which the operator could have rendered assistance without serious danger to the operator's own vessel or persons aboard. This subsection (3) does not apply to vessels involved in commerce, including but not limited to tugs, barges, cargo vessels, commercial passenger vessels, fishing vessels, and processing vessels.
[ 2000 c 11 § 102; 1996 c 36 § 1; 1993 c 244 § 18; 1984 c 183 § 1; 1983 2nd ex.s. c 3 § 48. Formerly RCW 88.12.155, 88.12.130, and 88.02.080.]
NOTES:
Intent—1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.210 - Casualty and accident reports—Confidentiality—Use as evidence.

RCW 79A.60.210
Casualty and accident reports—Confidentiality—Use as evidence.
(1) All reports made to the commission pursuant to RCW 79A.60.200 and 79A.05.310 shall be without prejudice to the person who makes the report and shall be for the confidential usage of governmental agencies, except as follows:
(a) Statistical information which shall be made public;
(b) The names and addresses of the operator and owner and the registration number or name of the vessel as documented which was involved in an accident or casualty and the names and addresses of any witnesses which, if reported, shall be disclosed upon written request to any person involved in a reportable accident, or, for a reportable casualty, to any member of a decedent's family or the personal representatives of the family.
(2) A report made to the commission pursuant to RCW 79A.60.200 and 79A.05.310 or copy thereof shall not be used in any trial, civil or criminal, arising out of an accident or casualty, except that solely to prove a compliance or failure to comply with the report requirements of RCW 79A.60.200 and 79A.05.310, a certified statement which indicates that a report has or has not been made to the commission shall be provided upon demand to any court or upon written request to any person who has or claims to have made a report.
[ 1999 c 249 § 1502; 1984 c 183 § 3. Formerly RCW 88.12.165, 88.12.140, and 43.51.402.]
NOTES:
Severability—1999 c 249: See note following RCW 79A.05.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.220 - Boating accident reports by local government agencies—Investigation—Report of coroner.

RCW 79A.60.220
Boating accident reports by local government agencies—Investigation—Report of coroner.
Law enforcement authorities, fire departments, or search and rescue units of any city or county government shall provide to the commission a report, prepared by the local government agency regarding any boating accident occurring within their jurisdiction resulting in a death or injury requiring hospitalization. Such report shall be provided to the commission within ten days of the occurrence of the accident. The results of any investigation of the accident conducted by the city or county governmental agency shall be included in the report provided to the commission. At the earliest opportunity, but in no case more than forty-eight hours after becoming aware of an accident, the agency shall notify the commission of the accident. The commission shall have authority to investigate any boating accident. The results of any investigation conducted by the commission shall be made available to the local government for further processing. This provision does not eliminate the requirement for a boating accident report by the operator required under RCW 79A.60.200.
The report of a county coroner, or any public official assuming the functions of a coroner, concerning the death of any person resulting from a boating accident, shall be submitted to the commission within one week of completion. Information in such report may be, together with information in other such reports, incorporated into the state boating accident report provided for in RCW 79A.05.310(4), and shall be for the confidential usage of governmental agencies as provided in RCW 79A.60.210.
[ 1999 c 249 § 1503; 1987 c 427 § 1. Formerly RCW 88.12.175, 88.12.150, and 43.51.403.]
NOTES:
Severability—1999 c 249: See note following RCW 79A.05.010.
Boating accidents and boating safety services—Study—Report—1987 c 427: "The parks and recreation commission shall conduct a study of boating accidents and boating safety services in Washington including a review of how the local option tax for funding of boating safety enforcement is used. Further the parks and recreation commission shall develop recommendations to address identified problems and report these recommendations to the legislature by January 2, 1988." [ 1987 c 427 § 4.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.230 - Vessels adrift—Owner to be notified.

RCW 79A.60.230
Vessels adrift—Owner to be notified.
Any person taking up any vessel found adrift, and out of the custody of the owner, in waters of this state, shall forthwith notify the owner thereof, if to him or her known, or if upon reasonable inquiry he or she can ascertain the name and residence of the owner, and request such owner to pay all reasonable charges, and take such vessel away.
[ 1993 c 244 § 19; Code 1881 § 3242; 1854 p 386 § 1; RRS § 9891. Formerly RCW 88.12.185, 88.12.160, and 88.20.010.]
NOTES:
Intent—1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.240 - Notice—Contents—Service.

RCW 79A.60.240
Notice—Contents—Service.
Such notice as is required by RCW 79A.60.230 shall be given personally, or in writing; if in writing, it shall be served upon the owner, or may be sent by mail to the post office where such owner usually receives his or her letters. Such notice shall inform the party where the vessel was taken up, and where it may be found, and what amount the taker-up or finder demands for his or her charges.
[ 1999 c 249 § 1504; 1993 c 244 § 20; Code 1881 § 3243; 1854 p 386 § 2; RRS § 9892. Formerly RCW 88.12.195, 88.12.170, and 88.20.020.]
NOTES:
Severability—1999 c 249: See note following RCW 79A.05.010.
Intent—1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.250 - Posting of notice.

RCW 79A.60.250
Posting of notice.
(1) In all cases where the notice required by RCW 79A.60.230 is not given personally, it shall be the duty of the taker-up to post up at the post office nearest the place where such vessel may be taken up, a written notice of the taking up of such vessel. The written notice shall contain a description of the vessel, with the name, if any is painted thereon, also the place where taken up, the place where the property may be found, and the charge for taking the same up.
(2) If the taker-up is traveling upon waters of the state, such notice shall additionally be posted up at the first post office he or she shall pass after the taking up.
(3) In all cases, the person who took up the vessel shall at the time when, and place where, he or she posts up such notice, also mail a copy of such notice, directed to the postmaster of each post office on waters of the state, and within fifty miles of the place where such vessel is taken up.
[ 1999 c 249 § 1505; 1993 c 244 § 21; Code 1881 § 3244; 1854 p 386 § 3; RRS § 9893. Formerly RCW 88.12.205, 88.12.180, and 88.20.030.]
NOTES:
Severability—1999 c 249: See note following RCW 79A.05.010.
Intent—1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.260 - Compensation—Liability on failure to give notice.

RCW 79A.60.260
Compensation—Liability on failure to give notice.
Every person taking up any vessel so found adrift, and giving the notice herein required, shall be entitled to receive from the owner claiming the property, a reasonable compensation for his or her time, services, expenses, and risk in taking up said property, and take notice of the same, to be settled by agreement between the parties. In case the person has not, within ten days after the taking up, substantially complied with the provisions of this chapter in giving the notice, the person shall be entitled to no compensation, but he or she shall be liable to all damages the owner may have suffered, and be also liable to the owner for the value of the use of the vessel, from the time of taking it up until the same is delivered to the owner.
[ 1993 c 244 § 22; Code 1881 § 3245; 1854 p 386 § 4; RRS § 9894. Formerly RCW 88.12.215, 88.12.190, and 88.20.040.]
NOTES:
Intent—1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.270 - Disputed claims—Trial—Bond.

RCW 79A.60.270
Disputed claims—Trial—Bond.
In case the parties cannot agree on the amount to be paid the taker-up, or the ownership, and the sum claimed is less than one thousand dollars, the owner may file a complaint, setting out the facts, and the judge, on hearing, shall decide the same with a jury, or not, and in the same manner as is provided in ordinary civil actions before a district judge. If the amount claimed by the taker-up is more than one thousand dollars, the owner shall file his or her complaint in the superior court of the county where the property is, and trial shall be had as in other civil actions; but if the taker-up claims more than one thousand dollars, and a less amount is awarded him or her, he or she shall be liable for all the costs in the superior court; and in all cases where the taker-up shall recover a less amount than has been tendered him or her by the owner or claimant, previous to filing his or her complaint, he or she shall pay the costs before the district judge or in the superior court: PROVIDED, That in all cases the owner, after filing his or her complaint before a district judge, shall be entitled to the possession of the vessel, upon giving bond, with security to the satisfaction of the judge, in double the amount claimed by the taker-up. When the complaint is filed in the superior court, the clerk thereof shall approve the security of the bond. The bond shall be conditioned to pay such costs as shall be awarded to the finder or taker-up of such vessel.
[ 1993 c 244 § 23; 1987 c 202 § 248; Code 1881 § 3246; 1854 p 386 § 5; RRS § 9895. Formerly RCW 88.12.218, 88.12.200, and 88.20.050.]
NOTES:
Intent—1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.
Intent—1987 c 202: See note following RCW 2.04.190.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.280 - Liability for excessive or negligent use.

RCW 79A.60.280
Liability for excessive or negligent use.
In case the taker-up shall use the vessel, more than is necessary to put it into a place of safety, he or she shall be liable to the owner for such use, and for all damage; and in case it shall suffer injury from his or her neglect to take suitable care of it, he or she shall be liable to the owner for all damage.
[ 1993 c 244 § 24; Code 1881 § 3247, part; 1854 p 387 § 6; RRS § 9896, part. FORMER PART OF SECTION: Code 1881 § 3247, part. Now codified as RCW 88.20.070. Formerly RCW 88.12.222, 88.12.210, and 88.20.060.]
NOTES:
Intent—1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.290 - Unclaimed vessel—Procedure.

RCW 79A.60.290
Unclaimed vessel—Procedure.
In case such vessel is of less value than one hundred dollars, and is not claimed within three months, the taker-up may apply to a district judge of the district where the property is, who, upon being satisfied that due notice has been given, and that the owner cannot, with reasonable diligence be found, shall order the vessel to be sold, and after paying the taker-up such sum as he or she shall be entitled to, and the costs, the balance shall be paid the county treasurer as is provided in the case of the sale of estrays. In case the vessel exceeds one hundred dollars, and is not claimed within six months, application shall be made to the superior court of the county, and the same proceeding shall be thereupon had. All sales made under this section shall be conducted as sales of personal property on execution.
[ 1993 c 244 § 25; 1987 c 202 § 249; Code 1881 § 3247, part; 1854 p 387 § 7; RRS § 9896, part. Formerly RCW 88.12.225, 88.12.220, 88.20.070, and 88.20.060, part.]
NOTES:
Intent—1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.
Intent—1987 c 202: See note following RCW 2.04.190.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.300 - Vessels secured pursuant to chapter 79A.65 RCW.

RCW 79A.60.300
Vessels secured pursuant to chapter 79A.65 RCW.
The provisions of RCW 79A.60.230 through 79A.60.290 do not apply to vessels secured pursuant to chapter 79A.65 RCW.
[ 2000 c 11 § 103; 1994 c 51 § 8. Formerly RCW 88.12.227.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.400 - Vessels carrying passengers for hire on whitewater rivers—Purpose.

RCW 79A.60.400
Vessels carrying passengers for hire on whitewater rivers—Purpose.
The purpose of RCW 79A.60.440 through 79A.60.480 is to further the public interest, welfare, and safety by providing for the protection and promotion of safety in the operation of vessels carrying passengers for hire on the whitewater rivers of this state.
[ 2000 c 11 § 104; 1993 c 244 § 26; 1986 c 217 § 1. Formerly RCW 88.12.230 and 91.14.005.]
NOTES:
Intent—1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.410 - Vessels carrying passengers for hire on whitewater rivers—Whitewater river outfitter's license required.

RCW 79A.60.410
Vessels carrying passengers for hire on whitewater rivers—Whitewater river outfitter's license required.
(1) No person shall act in the capacity of a paid whitewater river outfitter, or advertise in any newspaper or magazine or any other trade publication, or represent himself or herself as a whitewater river outfitter in the state, without first obtaining a whitewater river outfitter's license from the department of licensing in accordance with RCW 79A.60.480.
(2) Every whitewater river outfitter's license must, at all times, be conspicuously placed on the premises set forth in the license.
[ 2000 c 11 § 105; 1997 c 391 § 2. Formerly RCW 88.12.232.]
NOTES:
Effective date—1997 c 391 §§ 2, 4, 5, 7, and 8: "Sections 2, 4, 5, 7, and 8 of this act take effect January 1, 1998." [ 1997 c 391 § 12.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79A - Public Recreational Lands › Chapter 79A.60 - Regulation of Recreational Vessels. › 79A.60.420 - Vessels carrying passengers for hire on whitewater rivers—Conduct constituting misdemeanor.

RCW 79A.60.420
Vessels carrying passengers for hire on whitewater rivers—Conduct constituting misdemeanor.
Except as provided in RCW 79A.60.480, the commission of a prohibited act or the omission of a required act under RCW 79A.60.430 through 79A.60.480 constitutes a misdemeanor, punishable as provided under RCW 9.92.030.
[ 2000 c 11 § 106; 1997 c 391 § 3; 1993 c 244 § 27. Formerly RCW 88.12.235.]
NOTES:
Intent—1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.