The definitions in this section apply throughout this title unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
"Commission" means the state parks and recreation commission.
"Chair" means the member of the commission elected pursuant to RCW 79A.05.025.
"Director" and "director of the state parks and recreation commission" mean the director of parks and recreation or the director's designee.
"Recreation" means those activities of a voluntary and leisure time nature that aid in promoting entertainment, pleasure, play, relaxation, or instruction.
"Natural forest" means a forest that faithfully represents, or is meant to become representative of, its unaltered state.
[ 1999 c 249 § 101; ]
For the purposes of this chapter, the terms spouse, marriage, marital, husband, wife, widow, widower, next of kin, and family shall be interpreted as applying equally to state registered domestic partnerships or individuals in state registered domestic partnerships as well as to marital relationships and married persons, and references to dissolution of marriage shall apply equally to state registered domestic partnerships that have been terminated, dissolved, or invalidated, to the extent that such interpretation does not conflict with federal law. Where necessary to implement chapter 521, Laws of 2009, gender-specific terms such as husband and wife used in any statute, rule, or other law shall be construed to be gender neutral, and applicable to individuals in state registered domestic partnerships.
[ 2009 c 521 § 185; ]
There is hereby created a "state parks and recreation commission" consisting of seven citizens of the state. The members of the commission shall be appointed by the governor by and with the advice and consent of the senate and shall serve for a term of six years, expiring on December 31st of even-numbered years, and until their successors are appointed. In case of a vacancy, the governor shall fill the vacancy for the unexpired term of the commissioner whose office has become vacant.
In making the appointments to the commission, the governor shall choose citizens who understand park and recreation needs and interests. No person shall serve if he or she holds any elective or full-time appointive state, county, or municipal office. Members of the commission shall be compensated in accordance with RCW 43.03.240 and in addition shall be allowed their travel expenses incurred while absent from their usual places of residence in accordance with RCW 43.03.050 and 43.03.060.
Payment of expenses pertaining to the operation of the commission shall be made upon vouchers certified to by such persons as shall be designated by the commission.
[ 1999 c 249 § 201; 1984 c 287 § 82; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 34 § 116; 1969 ex.s. c 31 § 1; 1965 ex.s. c 132 § 1; 1965 c 8 § 43.51.020; 1947 c 271 § 1; 1945 c 36 § 1; 1921 c 7 § 10; RRS § 10768; ]
In addition to whatever other duties may exist in law or be imposed in the future, it is the duty of the commission to:
Implement integrated pest management practices and regulate pests as required by RCW 17.15.020;
Take steps necessary to control spartina and purple loosestrife as required by RCW 17.26.020;
Participate in the implementation of chapter 19.02 RCW;
Coordinate planning and provide staffing and administrative assistance to the Lewis and Clark trail committee as required by *RCW 27.34.340;
Administer those portions of chapter 46.10 RCW not dealing with the registration of snowmobiles as required by RCW 46.10.370;
Consult and participate in the scenic and recreational highway system as required by chapter 47.39 RCW; and
Develop, prepare, and distribute information relating to marine oil recycling tanks and sewage holding tank pumping stations, in cooperation with other departments, as required by chapter 88.02 RCW.
The commission has the power reasonably necessary to carry out these duties.
[ 2011 c 171 § 114; 1999 c 249 § 301; ]
The commission shall elect one of its members as chair. The commission may be convened at such times as the chair deems necessary, and a majority shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.
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Except as provided in (b) of this subsection, the lease of parkland or property for a period exceeding twenty years requires the affirmative vote of at least five members of the commission.
With the affirmative vote of at least five members of the commission, the commission may enter into a lease for up to sixty-two years for property at Saint Edward state park. The commission may only enter into a lease under the provisions of this subsection (2)(b) if the commission finds that the department of commerce study required by section 3, chapter 103, Laws of 2016 fails to identify an economically viable public or nonprofit use for the property that is consistent with the state parks and recreation commission's mission and could proceed on a reasonable timeline. The lease at Saint Edward state park may only include the following:
The main seminary building;
The pool building;
The gymnasium;
The parking lot located in between locations identified in (b)(i), (ii), and (iii) of this subsection;
The parking lot immediately north of the gymnasium; and
Associated property immediately adjacent to the areas listed in (b)(i) through (v) of this subsection.
[ 2020 c 123 § 1; 2016 c 103 § 1; 1999 c 249 § 202; 1965 c 8 § 43.51.030; 1947 c 271 § 3; RRS § 10768-2; ]
The commission shall:
Have the care, charge, control, and supervision of all parks and parkways acquired or set aside by the state for park or parkway purposes.
Adopt policies, and adopt, issue, and enforce rules pertaining to the use, care, and administration of state parks and parkways. The commission shall cause a copy of the rules to be kept posted in a conspicuous place in every state park to which they are applicable, but failure to post or keep any rule posted shall be no defense to any prosecution for the violation thereof.
Permit the use of state parks and parkways by the public under such rules as shall be adopted.
Clear, drain, grade, seed, and otherwise improve or beautify parks and parkways, and erect structures, buildings, fireplaces, and comfort stations and build and maintain paths, trails, and roadways through or on parks and parkways.
Grant concessions or leases in state parks and parkways upon such rentals, fees, or percentage of income or profits and for such terms, in no event longer than eighty years, except for a lease associated with land or property described in RCW 79A.05.025(2)(b) which may not exceed sixty-two years, and upon such conditions as shall be approved by the commission.
Leases exceeding a twenty-year term, or the amendment or modification of these leases, shall require a vote consistent with RCW 79A.05.025(2).
If, during the term of any concession or lease, it is the opinion of the commission that it would be in the best interest of the state, the commission may, with the consent of the concessionaire or lessee, alter and amend the terms and conditions of such concession or lease.
Television station leases shall be subject to the provisions of RCW 79A.05.085.
The rates of concessions or leases shall be renegotiated at five-year intervals. No concession shall be granted which will prevent the public from having free access to the scenic attractions of any park or parkway.
Employ such assistance as it deems necessary. Commission expenses relating to its use of volunteer assistance shall be limited to premiums or assessments for the insurance of volunteers by the department of labor and industries, compensation of staff who assist volunteers, materials and equipment used in authorized volunteer projects, training, reimbursement of volunteer travel as provided in RCW 43.03.050 and 43.03.060, and other reasonable expenses relating to volunteer recognition. The commission, at its discretion, may waive commission fees otherwise applicable to volunteers. The commission shall not use volunteers to replace or supplant classified positions. The use of volunteers may not lead to the elimination of any employees or permanent positions in the bargaining unit.
By majority vote of its authorized membership, select and purchase or obtain options upon, lease, or otherwise acquire for and in the name of the state such tracts of land, including shore and tide lands, for park and parkway purposes as it deems proper. If the commission cannot acquire any tract at a price it deems reasonable, it may, by majority vote of its authorized membership, obtain title thereto, or any part thereof, by condemnation proceedings conducted by the attorney general as provided for the condemnation of rights-of-way for state highways. Option agreements executed under authority of this subsection shall be valid only if:
The cost of the option agreement does not exceed one dollar; and
Moneys used for the purchase of the option agreement are from (i) funds appropriated therefor, or (ii) funds appropriated for undesignated land acquisitions, or (iii) funds deemed by the commission to be in excess of the amount necessary for the purposes for which they were appropriated; and
The maximum amount payable for the property upon exercise of the option does not exceed the appraised value of the property.
Cooperate with the United States, or any county or city of this state, in any matter pertaining to the acquisition, development, redevelopment, renovation, care, control, or supervision of any park or parkway, and enter into contracts in writing to that end. All parks or parkways, to which the state contributed or in whose care, control, or supervision the state participated pursuant to the provisions of this section, shall be governed by the provisions hereof.
Within allowable resources, maintain policies that increase the number of people who have access to free or low-cost recreational opportunities for physical activity, including noncompetitive physical activity.
Adopt rules establishing the requirements for a criminal history record information search for the following: Job applicants, volunteers, and independent contractors who have unsupervised access to children or vulnerable adults, or who will be responsible for collecting or disbursing cash or processing credit/debit card transactions. These background checks will be done through the Washington state patrol criminal identification section and may include a national check from the federal bureau of investigation, which shall be through the submission of fingerprints. A permanent employee of the commission, employed as of July 24, 2005, is exempt from the provisions of this subsection.
[ 2020 c 123 § 2; 2016 c 103 § 2; 2005 c 373 § 1; 2005 c 360 § 5; prior: 1999 c 249 § 302; 1999 c 155 § 1; 1999 c 59 § 1; 1989 c 175 § 106; 1980 c 89 § 1; 1979 c 10 § 4; prior: 1977 ex.s. c 123 § 1; 1977 c 75 § 57; 1967 ex.s. c 90 § 1; 1965 c 8 § 43.51.040; prior: 1959 c 317 § 1; 1955 c 391 § 1; 1929 c 148 § 1; 1923 c 157 § 1; 1921 c 149 § 2; RRS § 10942; ]
The commission shall:
Manage timber and land under its jurisdiction to maintain and enhance aesthetic and recreational values;
Apply modern conservation practices to maintain and enhance aesthetic, recreational, and ecological resources; and
Designate and preserve certain forest areas throughout the state as natural forests or natural areas for interpretation, study, and preservation purposes.
Trees may be removed from state parks:
When hazardous to persons, property, or facilities;
As part of a park maintenance or development project, or conservation practice;
As part of a road or utility easement; or
When damaged by a catastrophic forest event.
Tree removal under subsection (2) of this section shall be done by commission personnel, unless the personnel lack necessary expertise. Except in emergencies and when feasible, significant trees shall be removed only after they have been marked or appraised by a professional forester. The removal of significant trees from a natural forest may take place only after a public hearing has been held, except in emergencies.
When feasible, felled timber shall be left on the ground for natural purposes or used for park purposes including, but not limited to, building projects, trail mulching, and firewood. In natural forest areas, first consideration shall be given to leaving timber on the ground for natural purposes.
The commission may issue permits to individuals under RCW 4.24.210 and 79A.05.090 for the removal of wood debris from state parks for personal firewood use.
Only timber that qualifies for cutting or removal under subsection (2) of this section may be sold. Timber shall be sold only when surplus to the needs of the park.
Net revenue derived from timber sales shall be deposited in the state parks renewal and stewardship account created in RCW 79A.05.215.
[ 1999 c 249 § 303; 1984 c 82 § 1; 1981 c 271 § 3; ]
In addition to other duties the commission may from time to time impose, it is the duty of the director to:
Ensure the control of weeds in parks to the extent required by RCW 17.04.160 and 17.10.205; and
Participate in the operations of the environmental enhancement and job creation task force under chapter 43.21J RCW.
The director has the power reasonably necessary to carry out these duties.
[ 1999 c 249 § 401; ]
The commission shall provide waste reduction and recycling information in each state park campground and day-use area.
The commission shall provide recycling receptacles in the day-use and campground areas of at least forty state parks. The receptacles shall be clearly marked for the disposal of at least two of the following recyclable materials: Aluminum, glass, newspaper, plastic, and tin. The commission shall endeavor to provide recycling receptacles in parks that are near urban centers or in heavily used parks.
The commission shall provide daily maintenance of such receptacles from April through September of each year.
The commission is authorized to enter into agreements with any person, company, or nonprofit organization to provide for the collection and transport of recyclable materials and related activities under this section.
[ 1999 c 249 § 304; 1991 c 11 § 1; ]
The commission shall establish a policy and procedures for supervising and evaluating community restitution activities that may be imposed under RCW 70A.200.060(3) including a description of what constitutes satisfactory completion of community restitution.
The commission shall inform each state park of the policy and procedures regarding community restitution activities, and each state park shall then notify the commission as to whether or not the park elects to participate in the community restitution program. The commission shall transmit a list notifying the district courts of each state park that elects to participate.
[ 2021 c 65 § 90; 2002 c 175 § 52; 1996 c 263 § 3; ]
The commission may:
Study and appraise parks and recreational needs of the state and assemble and disseminate information relative to parks and recreation;
Make provisions for the publication and sale of interpretive, recreational, and historical materials and literature. Proceeds from such sales shall be directed to the parks improvement account; and
Coordinate the parks and recreational functions of the various state departments, and cooperate with state and federal agencies in the promotion of parks and recreational opportunities.
[ 1997 c 137 § 1; 1987 c 225 § 1; 1965 c 8 § 43.51.050; 1955 c 391 § 2; 1947 c 271 § 4; RRS § 10768-3; ]
The state parks education and enhancement account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. All receipts from the sale of Washington state parks and recreation commission special license plates, after the deductions permitted by RCW 46.68.425, must be deposited into the account. Expenditures from the account may only be used to provide public educational opportunities and enhancement of Washington state parks. Only the director or the director's designee may authorize expenditures from the account. The account is subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but an appropriation is not required for expenditures.
[ 2010 c 161 § 1162; 2005 c 44 § 4; ]
The parks improvement account is hereby established in the state treasury.
The commission shall deposit all moneys received from the sale of interpretive, recreational, and historical literature and materials in this account. Moneys in the account may be spent only for development, production, and distribution costs associated with literature and materials.
Disbursements from the account shall be on the authority of the director, or the director's designee. The account is subject to the allotment procedure provided under chapter 43.88 RCW. No appropriation is required for disbursement of moneys to be used for support of further production of materials provided for in RCW 79A.05.055(2). The director may transfer a portion of the moneys in this account to the state parks renewal and stewardship account and may expend moneys so transferred for any purpose provided for in RCW 79A.05.215.
[ 1999 c 249 § 402; 1997 c 137 § 2; 1987 c 225 § 2; ]
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The commission shall grant to any person who meets the eligibility requirements specified in this section a senior citizen's pass which shall: (i) Entitle such a person, and members of his or her camping unit, to a fifty percent reduction in the campsite rental fee prescribed by the commission; and (ii) entitle such a person to free admission to any state park.
The commission shall grant a senior citizen's pass to any person who applies for the senior citizen's pass and who meets the following requirements:
The person is at least sixty-two years of age;
The person is a domiciliary of the state of Washington and meets reasonable residency requirements prescribed by the commission; and
The person and his or her spouse have a combined income that would qualify the person for a property tax exemption pursuant to RCW 84.36.381. The financial eligibility requirements of this subsection (1)(b)(iii) apply regardless of whether the applicant for a senior citizen's pass owns taxable property or has obtained or applied for such property tax exemption.
Each senior citizen's pass granted pursuant to this section is valid as long as the senior citizen meets the requirements of (b)(ii) of this subsection. A senior citizen meeting the eligibility requirements of this section may make a voluntary donation for the upkeep and maintenance of state parks.
A holder of a senior citizen's pass shall surrender the pass upon request of a commission employee when the employee has reason to believe the holder fails to meet the criteria in (b) of this subsection. The holder shall have the pass returned upon providing proof to the satisfaction of the director that the holder meets the eligibility criteria for obtaining the senior citizen's pass.
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Any resident of Washington who is disabled as defined by the social security administration and who receives social security benefits for that disability, or any other benefits for that disability from any other governmental or nongovernmental source, or who is entitled to benefits for permanent disability under *RCW 71A.10.020(3) due to unemployability full time at the minimum wage, or who is legally blind or profoundly deaf, or who has been issued a card, decal, or special license plate for a permanent disability under RCW 46.19.010 shall be entitled to receive, regardless of age and upon making application therefor, a disability pass at no cost to the holder. The pass shall: (i) Entitle such a person, and members of his or her camping unit, to a fifty percent reduction in the campsite rental fee prescribed by the commission; and (ii) entitle such a person to free admission to any state park.
A card, decal, or special license plate issued for a permanent disability under RCW 46.19.010 may serve as a pass for the holder to entitle that person and members of the person's camping unit to a fifty percent reduction in the campsite rental fee prescribed by the commission, and to allow the holder free admission to state parks.
Any resident of Washington who is a veteran and has a service-connected disability of at least thirty percent shall be entitled to receive a lifetime veteran's disability pass at no cost to the holder. The pass shall: (a) Entitle such a person, and members of his or her camping unit, to free use of any campsite within any state park; (b) entitle such a person to free admission to any state park; and (c) entitle such a person to an exemption from any reservation fees.
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Any Washington state resident who provides out-of-home care to a child, as either a licensed foster family home or a person related to the child, is entitled to a foster home pass.
An applicant for a foster home pass must request a pass in the manner required by the commission. Upon receipt of a properly submitted request, the commission shall verify with the department of social and health services that the applicant qualifies under (a) of this subsection. Once issued, a foster home pass is valid for the period, which may not be less than one year, designated by the commission.
When accompanied by a child receiving out-of-home care from the pass holder, a foster home pass: (i) Entitles such a person, and members of his or her camping unit, to free use of any campsite within any state park; and (ii) entitles such a person to free admission to any state park.
For the purposes of this subsection (4):
"Out-of-home care" means placement in a foster family home or with a person related to the child under the authority of chapter 13.32A, 13.34, or 74.13 RCW;
"Foster family home" has the same meaning as defined in RCW 74.15.020; and
"Person related to the child" means those persons referred to in RCW 74.15.020(2)(a) (i) through (vi).
All passes issued pursuant to this section are valid at all parks any time during the year. However, the pass is not valid for admission to concessionaire operated facilities.
The commission shall negotiate payment and costs, to allow holders of a foster home pass free access and usage of park campsites, with the following nonoperated, nonstate-owned parks: Central Ferry, Chief Timothy, Crow Butte, and Lyons Ferry. The commission shall seek state general fund reimbursement on a biennial basis.
The commission may deny or revoke any Washington state park pass issued under this section for cause, including but not limited to the following:
Residency outside the state of Washington;
Violation of laws or state park rules resulting in eviction from a state park;
Intimidating, obstructing, or assaulting a park employee or park volunteer who is engaged in the performance of official duties;
Fraudulent use of a pass;
Providing false information or documentation in the application for a state parks pass;
Refusing to display or show the pass to park employees when requested; or
Failing to provide current eligibility information upon request by the agency or when eligibility ceases or changes.
This section shall not affect or otherwise impair the power of the commission to continue or discontinue any other programs it has adopted for senior citizens.
The commission may engage in a mutually agreed upon reciprocal or discounted program for all or specific pass programs with other outdoor recreation agencies.
The commission shall adopt those rules as it finds appropriate for the administration of this section. Among other things, the rules shall prescribe a definition of "camping unit" which will authorize a reasonable number of persons traveling with the person having a pass to stay at the campsite rented by such a person, a minimum Washington residency requirement for applicants for a senior citizen's pass, and an application form to be completed by applicants for a senior citizen's pass.
[ 2011 c 171 § 115; 2010 c 161 § 1163; 2008 c 238 § 1; 2007 c 441 § 1; 1999 c 249 § 305; 1997 c 74 § 1; 1989 c 135 § 1; 1988 c 176 § 909; 1986 c 6 § 1; 1985 c 182 § 1; 1979 ex.s. c 131 § 1; 1977 ex.s. c 330 § 1; ]
The commission may:
Make rules and regulations for the proper administration of its duties;
Accept any grants of funds made with or without a matching requirement by the United States, or any agency thereof, for purposes in keeping with the purposes of this chapter; accept gifts, bequests, devises and endowments for purposes in keeping with such purposes; enter into cooperative agreements with and provide for private nonprofit groups to use state park property and facilities to raise money to contribute gifts, grants, and support to the commission for the purposes of this chapter. The commission may assist the nonprofit group in a cooperative effort by providing necessary agency personnel and services, if available. However, none of the moneys raised may inure to the benefit of the nonprofit group, except in furtherance of its purposes to benefit the commission as provided in this chapter. The agency and the private nonprofit group must agree on the nature of any project to be supported by such gift or grant prior to the use of any agency property or facilities for raising money. Any such gifts may be in the form of recreational facilities developed or built in part or in whole for public use on agency property, provided that the facility is consistent with the purposes of the agency;
Require certification by the commission of all parks and recreation workers employed in state aided or state controlled programs;
Act jointly, when advisable, with the United States, any other state agencies, institutions, departments, boards, or commissions in order to carry out the objectives and responsibilities of this chapter;
Grant franchises and easements for any legitimate purpose on parks or parkways, for such terms and subject to such conditions and considerations as the commission shall specify;
Charge fees for services, utilities, and use of facilities as the commission shall deem proper. The commission may utilize unstaffed collection stations to collect any fees or distribute any permits necessary for access to state parks, including discover passes and day-use permits as those terms are defined in RCW 79A.80.010;
Enter into agreements whereby individuals or companies may rent undeveloped parks or parkway land for grazing, agricultural, or mineral development purposes upon such terms and conditions as the commission shall deem proper, for a term not to exceed forty years;
Determine the qualifications of and employ a director of parks and recreation who must receive a salary as fixed by the governor in accordance with the provisions of RCW 43.03.040 and determine the qualifications and salary of and employ such other persons as may be needed to carry out the provisions hereof; and
Utilize such other powers as in the judgment of a majority of its members are deemed necessary to effectuate the purposes of this chapter. However, the commission does not have power to supervise directly any local park or recreation district, and no funds shall be made available for such purpose.
[ 2012 c 261 § 8; 2011 c 320 § 24; 2006 c 141 § 1; 2003 c 186 § 1; 1999 c 249 § 307; 1995 c 211 § 3; 1993 c 156 § 1; 1987 c 225 § 3; 1980 c 89 § 2; 1969 c 99 § 1; 1965 c 8 § 43.51.060; 1961 c 307 § 12; 1955 c 391 § 3; 1947 c 271 § 5; RRS § 10768-4; ]
No provision of law relating to the commission shall prevent the commission from delegating to the director such powers and duties of the commission as they may deem proper.
[ 1999 c 249 § 306; 1969 ex.s. c 31 § 2; ]
The state parks and recreation commission is hereby authorized to lease the use of such areas in Mount Spokane state park, Steptoe Butte state park, Kamiak Butte state park or any other state park for television stations as the commission may decide are suitable for that purpose: PROVIDED, That this authority shall not extend to school lands or lands held by the state of Washington for educational purposes.
[ 1965 c 8 § 43.51.062; 1953 c 39 § 1; ]
The commission shall determine the fair market value for television station leases based upon independent appraisals and existing leases for television stations shall be extended at said fair market rental for at least one period of not more than twenty years: PROVIDED, That the rates in said leases shall be renegotiated at five year intervals: PROVIDED FURTHER, That said stations shall permit the attachment of antennae of publicly operated broadcast and microwave stations where electronically practical to combine the towers: PROVIDED FURTHER, That notwithstanding any term to the contrary in any lease, this section shall not preclude the commission from prescribing new and reasonable lease terms relating to the modification, placement, or design of facilities operated by or for a station, and any extension of a lease granted under this section shall be subject to this proviso: PROVIDED FURTHER, That notwithstanding any other provision of law the director in his or her discretion may waive any requirement that any environmental impact statement or environmental assessment be submitted as to any lease negotiated and signed between January 1, 1974, and December 31, 1974.
[ 2013 c 23 § 265; 1974 ex.s. c 151 § 1; ]
The commission, in consultation with the department of archaeology and historic preservation, may permit commercial advertising on or in state parks lands and buildings when all the following conditions and standards are met with regard to the commercial advertising:
It conforms to the United States secretary of the interior's standards for the treatment of historic properties when applied to advertising affecting historic structures, cultural and historic landscapes, and archaeological sites;
It does not detract from the integrity of the park's natural, cultural, historic, and recreational resources and outstanding scenic view sheds;
It does not create a potential conflict of interest because of the commercial or corporate entity's regulatory or business relationships with the commission; and
It will acknowledge individuals and organizations that are donors or sponsors of park events or projects or support the sustainability of park concessionaires, lessees, or service providers.
The commission is encouraged to use its advertising authority to promote:
Community economic development near state parks;
Wellness, healthy food options, healthy behaviors, and any other public health goals or principles adopted by the state; and
Park visitor awareness of services and activities within and near each park.
The commission shall adopt standards for advertising, naming, product placement, and other forms of commercial recognition that require the commission to define and prohibit, at minimum, the following:
Obscene, indecent, or discriminatory content;
Political or public issue advocacy content;
Products, services, or other materials that are offensive, insulting, disparaging, or degrading; or
Products, services, or messages that are contrary to the public interest, including any advertisement that encourages or depicts unsafe behaviors or encourages unsafe or prohibited recreation activities. Tobacco and cannabis must be included among the products prohibited under this subsection (3)(d).
Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, commercial advertising, including product placement, is permitted on commission websites, electronic social media, and printed materials within or outside of state parks.
[ 2014 c 86 § 4; ]
Persons over the age of sixty-five are exempt from any permit or other administrative fee imposed by the commission for the collection of wood debris in state parks, if such wood is for personal use.
[ 1983 c 193 § 1; ]
The commission may receive and accept donations of lands for state park purposes, and shall be responsible for the management and control of all lands so acquired. It may from time to time recommend to the legislature the acquisition of lands for park purposes by purchase or condemnation.
[ 1999 c 249 § 901; 1965 c 8 § 43.51.070; 1913 c 113 § 2; RRS § 10940; ]
The commission may receive in trust any money donated or bequeathed to it, and carry out the terms of such donation or bequest, or, in the absence of such terms, expend the same as it may deem advisable for park or parkway purposes.
Money so received shall be deposited in the state parks renewal and stewardship account.
[ 1997 c 137 § 3; 1969 c 99 § 2; 1965 c 8 § 43.51.090; 1923 c 157 § 2; 1921 c 149 § 3; RRS § 10943; ]
Inasmuch as the value of land with standing timber is increasing and will continue to increase from year to year and no loss will be caused to the common school fund or other fund into which the proceeds of the sale of any land held by the state would be paid by postponing the sale thereof, the commissioner of public lands may, upon his or her own motion, and shall, when directed so to do by the state parks and recreation commission, withdraw from sale any land held by the state abutting on any public highway and certify to the commission that such land is withheld from sale pursuant to the terms of this section.
Such lands shall not be sold until directed by the legislature, and shall in the meantime be under the care, charge, control, and supervision of the commission.
[ 2013 c 23 § 266; 1965 c 8 § 43.51.100; 1921 c 149 § 4; RRS § 10944; ]
The commissioner of public lands may, upon his or her own motion, and shall, when directed so to do by the commission, withdraw from sale any land held by the state and not acquired directly from the United States with reservations as to the manner of sale thereof and the purposes for which it may be sold, and certify to the commission that such land is withheld from sale pursuant to the terms of this section.
All such land shall be under the care, charge, control, and supervision of the commission, and after appraisal in such manner as the commission directs may be exchanged for land of equal value, and to this end the chair and secretary of the commission may execute deeds of conveyance in the name of the state.
[ 1999 c 249 § 902; 1965 c 8 § 43.51.110; 1921 c 149 § 5; RRS § 10945; ]
The commission shall develop and maintain a cross-state trail facility with appropriate appurtenances.
[ 2018 c 279 § 1; 2009 c 338 § 1; 2006 c 160 § 1; 1999 c 301 § 1; 1996 c 129 § 2; ]
To facilitate completion of a cross-state trail under the management of the parks and recreation commission, management and control of lands known as the Milwaukee Road corridor shall be transferred between state agencies as follows on the date a franchise agreement is entered into for a rail line over portions of the Milwaukee Road corridor:
Portions owned by the state between Ellensburg and the Columbia river that are managed by the parks and recreation commission are transferred to the department of transportation;
Portions owned by the state between the west side of the Columbia river and Royal City Junction and between Warden and Lind that are managed by the department of natural resources are transferred to the department of transportation;
Portions owned by the state between Lind and the Idaho border that are managed by the department of natural resources are transferred to the parks and recreation commission as of June 7, 2006; and
Portions owned by the state between Lind and Marengo are transferred to the department of transportation.
The department of natural resources may, by mutual agreement with the parks and recreation commission, transfer management authority over portions of the Milwaukee Road corridor to the state parks and recreation commission, at any time prior to the department of transportation entering into a franchise agreement.
No transfers shall occur unless the department of transportation enters into a franchise agreement for a rail line over any of the portions of the Milwaukee Road corridor between Ellensburg and Marengo.
[ 2018 c 279 § 2; 2009 c 338 § 2; 2006 c 160 § 2; 1999 c 301 § 2; 1996 c 129 § 3; ]
The department of transportation shall negotiate one or more franchises with rail carriers to establish and maintain a rail line over portions of the Milwaukee Road corridor owned by the state between Ellensburg and Marengo. The department of transportation may negotiate such a franchise with any qualified rail carrier. Criteria for negotiating the franchise and establishing the right-of-way include:
Assurances that resources from the franchise will be sufficient to compensate the state for use of the property, including completion of a cross-state trail between Easton and the Idaho border;
Types of payment for use of the franchise, including payment for the use of federally granted trust lands in the transportation corridor;
Standards for maintenance of the line;
Provisions ensuring that both the conventional and intermodal rail service needs of local shippers are met. Such accommodations may comprise agreements with the franchisee to offer or maintain adequate service or to provide service by other carriers at commercially reasonable rates;
Provisions requiring the franchisee, upon reasonable request of any other rail operator, to provide rail service and interchange freight over what is commonly known as the Stampede Pass rail line from Cle Elum to Auburn at commercially reasonable rates;
If any part of the franchise agreement is invalidated by actions or rulings of the federal surface transportation board or a court of competent jurisdiction, the remaining portions of the franchise agreement are not affected;
Compliance with environmental standards; and
Provisions for insurance and the coverage of liability.
The franchise may provide for periodic review of financial arrangements under the franchise.
The department of transportation, in consultation with the parks and recreation commission and the senate and house transportation committees, shall negotiate the terms of the franchise, and shall present the agreement to the parks and recreation commission for approval of as to terms and provisions affecting the cross-state trail or affecting the commission.
[ 2018 c 279 § 3; 2009 c 338 § 3; 2006 c 160 § 3; 2005 c 319 § 134; 1999 c 301 § 3; 1996 c 129 § 4; ]
The cross-state trail account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. Eleven million five hundred thousand dollars is provided to the state parks and recreation commission to acquire, construct, and maintain a cross-state trail. This amount may consist of: (a) Legislative appropriations intended for trail development; (b) payments for the purchase of federally granted trust lands; and (c) franchise fees derived from use of the rail corridor. The legislature intends that any amounts provided from the transportation fund are to be repaid to the transportation fund from franchise fees.
The department shall deposit franchise fees from use of the rail corridor according to the following priority: (a) To the department of transportation for actual costs incurred in administering the franchise; (b) to the department of natural resources as compensation for use of federally granted trust lands in the rail corridor; (c) to the transportation fund to reimburse any amounts transferred or appropriated from that fund by the legislature for trail development; (d) to the cross-state trail account, not to exceed eleven million five hundred thousand dollars, provided that this amount shall be reduced proportionate with any funds transferred or appropriated by the 1996 legislature or paid from franchise fees for the purchase of federally granted trust lands or for trail development; and (e) the remainder to the essential rail assistance account, created under RCW 47.76.250. Expenditures from the cross-state trail account may be used only for the acquisition, development, operation, and maintenance of the cross-state trail. Only the director of the state parks and recreation commission or the director's designee may authorize expenditures from the account. The account is subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but no appropriation is required for expenditures.
The commission may acquire land from willing sellers for the cross-state trail, but not by eminent domain.
The commission shall adopt rules describing the cross-state trail.
[ 2018 c 279 § 4; 2009 c 338 § 4; 2006 c 160 § 4; 1999 c 301 § 4; 1996 c 129 § 5; ]
All state parks and parkways, subject to the provisions of this chapter are set apart and dedicated as public parks and parkways for the benefit and enjoyment of all the people of this state.
[ 1965 c 8 § 43.51.120; 1921 c 149 § 6; RRS § 10946; ]
The state parks and recreation commission may grant permits to individuals, groups, churches, charities, organizations, agencies, clubs, or associations to improve any state park or parkway, or any lands belonging to the state and withdrawn from sale under the provisions of this chapter. These improvements shall not interfere with access to or use of such public lands or facilities by the general public and shall benefit the public in terms of safety, recreation, aesthetics, or wildlife or natural area preservation. These improvements on public lands and facilities shall be for the use of all members of the general public.
[ 1999 c 59 § 2; 1982 c 156 § 1; 1965 c 8 § 43.51.130; 1929 c 83 § 1; RRS § 10946-1; ]
Any such individual, group, organization, agency, club, or association desiring to obtain such permit shall make application therefor in writing to the commission, describing the lands proposed to be improved and stating the nature of the proposed improvement.
[ 1999 c 59 § 3; 1982 c 156 § 2; 1965 c 8 § 43.51.140; 1929 c 83 § 2; RRS § 10946-2; ]
If the state parks and recreation commission determines that the proposed improvement will substantially alter a park, parkway, or parkland, it shall require the applicant to submit detailed plans and specifications of the proposed improvement, which, as submitted, or as modified by the state parks and recreation commission, shall be incorporated in the permit when granted.
[ 1982 c 156 § 3; 1965 c 8 § 43.51.150; 1929 c 83 § 3; RRS § 10946-3; ]
If the commission determines it necessary, the applicant shall execute and file with the secretary of state a bond payable to the state, in such penal sum as the commission shall require, with good and sufficient sureties to be approved by the commission, conditioned that the grantee of the permit will make the improvement in accordance with the plans and specifications contained in the permit, and, in case the improvement is made upon lands withdrawn from sale under the provisions of RCW 79A.05.105, will pay into the state treasury to the credit of the fund to which the proceeds of the sale of such lands would belong, the appraised value of all merchantable timber and material on the land, destroyed, or used in making such improvement.
[ 2000 c 11 § 31; 1982 c 156 § 4; 1965 c 8 § 43.51.160; 1929 c 83 § 4; RRS § 10946-4; ]
Designated officers, employed by the commission, shall be vested with police powers to enforce the laws of this state:
Within the boundaries of any state park, including lands owned, managed, or comanaged by the commission under lease or other agreement;
In winter recreation facilities established and administered by the commission pursuant to RCW 79A.05.225(1)(a);
On public roadways and public waterways bisecting the contiguous borders of any state park, including lands owned, managed, or comanaged by the commission under lease or other agreement;
Upon the prior written consent of the sheriff or chief of police in whose primary territorial jurisdiction the exercise of the powers occur;
In response to the request of a peace officer with enforcement authority; and
When the officer is in fresh pursuit for an offense committed in the presence of the officer while the officer had police powers as specified in (a) through (e) of this subsection.
The director may, under the provisions of RCW 7.84.140, enter into an agreement allowing officers of the department of natural resources, the department of fish and wildlife, and tribal law enforcement agencies on contiguous or comanaged property, to enforce certain civil infractions created under this title.
[ 2016 c 185 § 1; 2011 c 320 § 15; 1965 c 8 § 43.51.170; 1921 c 149 § 7; RRS § 10947; ]
When physical injury to a person or substantial damage to property occurs, or is about to occur, within the presence of an officer of the commission designated with police powers pursuant to RCW 79A.05.160, the designated officer is authorized to take such action as is reasonably necessary to prevent physical injury to a person or substantial damage to property or prevent further injury to a person or further substantial damage to property. A designated officer shall be immune from civil liability for damages arising out of the action of the designated officer to prevent physical injury to a person or substantial damage to property or prevent further injury to a person or further substantial damage to property, unless it is shown that the designated officer acted with gross negligence or bad faith.
[ 2016 c 185 § 2; ]
Every person is guilty of a misdemeanor who:
Cuts, breaks, injures, destroys, takes, or removes any tree, shrub, timber, plant, or natural object in any park or parkway except in accordance with such rules as the commission may prescribe; or
Kills, or pursues with intent to kill, any bird or animal in any park or parkway except in accordance with a research pass, permit, or other approval issued by the commission, pursuant to rule, for scientific research purposes; or
Takes any fish from the waters of any park or parkway, except in conformity with such general rules as the commission may prescribe; or
Willfully mutilates, injures, defaces, or destroys any guidepost, notice, tablet, fence, inclosure [enclosure], or work for the protection or ornamentation of any park or parkway; or
Lights any fire upon any park or parkway, except in such places as the commission has authorized, or willfully or carelessly permits any fire which he or she has lighted or which is under his or her charge, to spread or extend to or burn any of the shrubbery, trees, timber, ornaments, or improvements upon any park or parkway, or leaves any campfire which he or she has lighted or which has been left in his or her charge, unattended by a competent person, without extinguishing it; or
Places within any park or parkway or affixes to any object therein contained, without a written license from the commission, any word, character, or device designed to advertise any business, profession, article, thing, exhibition, matter, or event.
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Except as provided in (b) of this subsection, a person who violates any rule adopted, promulgated, or issued by the commission pursuant to the provisions of this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor.
The commission may specify by rule, when not inconsistent with applicable statutes, that violation of the rule is an infraction under chapter 7.84 RCW.
[ 2007 c 441 § 2; 2008 c 83 § 2; 2003 c 53 § 382; 1997 c 214 § 1; 1987 c 380 § 15; 1965 c 8 § 43.51.180; 1921 c 149 § 8; RRS § 10948; ]
Any lands owned by the state parks and recreation commission, which are determined to be surplus to the needs of the state for development for state park purposes and which the commission proposes to deed to a local government or other entity, shall be accompanied by a clause requiring that if the land is not used for outdoor recreation purposes, ownership of the land shall revert to the state parks and recreation commission.
The state parks and recreation commission, in cases where land subject to such a reversionary clause is proposed for use or disposal for purposes other than recreation, shall require that, if the land is surplus to the needs of the commission for park purposes at the time the commission becomes aware of its proposed use for nonrecreation purposes, the holder of the land or property shall reimburse the commission for the release of the reversionary interest in the land. The reimbursement shall be in the amount of the fair market value of the reversionary interest as determined by a qualified appraiser agreeable to the commission. Appraisal costs shall be borne by the local entity which holds title to the land.
Any funds generated under a reimbursement under this section shall be deposited in the parkland acquisition account which is hereby created in the state treasury. Moneys in this account are to be used solely for the purchase or acquisition of property for use as state park property by the commission, as directed by the legislature; all such funds shall be subject to legislative appropriation.
[ 1991 sp.s. c 13 § 23; 1985 c 57 § 33; 1984 c 87 § 1; ]
Whenever the commission finds that any land under its control cannot advantageously be used for park purposes, it is authorized to dispose of such land by the method provided in this section or by the method provided in RCW 79A.05.170. If such lands are school or other grant lands, control thereof shall be relinquished by resolution of the commission to the proper state officials. If such lands were acquired under restrictive conveyances by which the state may hold them only so long as they are used for park purposes, they may be returned to the donor or grantors by the commission. All other such lands may be either sold by the commission to the highest bidder or exchanged for other lands of equal value by the commission, and all conveyance documents shall be executed by the governor. All such exchanges shall be accompanied by a transfer fee, to be set by the commission and paid by the other party to the transfer; such fee shall be paid into the parkland acquisition account established under RCW 79A.05.170. The commission may accept sealed bids, electronic bids, or oral bids at auction. Bids on all sales shall be solicited at least twenty days in advance of the sale date by an advertisement appearing at least once a week for two consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation in the county in which the land to be sold is located. If the commission feels that no bid received adequately reflects the fair value of the land to be sold, it may reject all bids, and may call for new bids. All proceeds derived from the sale of such park property shall be paid into the parkland acquisition account. All land considered for exchange shall be evaluated by the commission to determine its adaptability to park usage. The equal value of all lands exchanged shall first be determined by the appraisals to the satisfaction of the commission. No sale or exchange of state parklands shall be made without the unanimous consent of the commission.
[ 2007 c 145 § 1; 1999 c 249 § 601; 1998 c 42 § 1; 1984 c 87 § 2; 1971 ex.s. c 246 § 1; 1969 c 99 § 3; 1965 c 8 § 43.51.210; 1953 c 64 § 1; 1947 c 261 § 1; RRS § 10951a; ]
Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, the commission may directly dispose of up to ten contiguous acres of real property, without public auction, to resolve trespass, property ownership disputes, and boundary adjustments with adjacent private property owners. Real property to be disposed of under this section may be disposed of only after appraisal and for at least fair market value, and only if the transaction is in the best interest of the state. The commission shall cooperate with potential purchasers to arrive at a mutually agreeable sales price. If necessary, determination of fair market value may include the use of separate independent appraisals by each party and the review of the appraisals, as agreed upon by the parties. All conveyance documents shall be executed by the governor. All proceeds from the disposal of the property shall be paid into the parkland acquisition account. No disposal of real property may be made without the unanimous consent of the commission.
Prior to the disposal of any real property under subsection (1) of this section, the commission shall hold a public hearing on the proposal in the county where the real property, or the greatest portion of the real property, is located. At least ten days, but not more than twenty-five days, prior to the hearing, the commission shall publish a paid public notice of reasonable size in display advertising form, setting forth the date, time, and place of the hearing, at least once in one or more daily newspapers of general circulation in the county and at least once in one or more weekly newspapers circulated in the area where the real property is located. A news release concerning the public hearing must be disseminated among print and electronic media in the area where the real property is located. The public notice and news release shall also identify the real property involved in the proposed disposal and describe the purpose of the proposed disposal. A summary of the testimony presented at the public hearing shall be prepared for the commission's consideration when reviewing the proposed disposal of real property.
If there is a failure to substantially comply with the procedures set out under this section, then the agreement to dispose of the real property is subject to being declared invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction. Such a suit must be brought within one year of the date of the real property disposal agreement.
[ 2000 c 42 § 1; ]
Actions under this chapter are subject to the notification requirements of RCW 43.17.400.
[ 2007 c 62 § 11; ]
Before the director of parks and recreation presents a proposed exchange to the parks and recreation commission involving an exchange of state land pursuant to this chapter, the director shall hold a public hearing on the proposal in the county where the state lands or the greatest proportion thereof is located. Ten days but not more than twenty-five days prior to such hearing, the director shall publish a paid public notice of reasonable size in display advertising form, setting forth the date, time, and place of the hearing, at least once in one or more daily newspapers of general circulation in the county and at least once in one or more weekly newspapers circulated in the area where the state owned land is located. A news release pertaining to the hearing shall be disseminated among printed and electronic media in the area where the state land is located. The public notice and news release also shall identify lands involved in the proposed exchange and describe the purposes of the exchange and proposed use of the lands involved. A summary of the testimony presented at the hearings shall be prepared for the commission's consideration when reviewing the director's exchange proposal. If there is a failure to substantially comply with the procedures set forth in this section, then the exchange agreement shall be subject to being declared invalid by a court. Any such suit must be brought within one year from the date of the exchange agreement.
[ 1998 c 42 § 2; 1975 1st ex.s. c 107 § 1; ]
To encourage the development of the Puget Sound country as a recreational boating area, the commission is authorized to establish landing, launch ramp, and other facilities for small pleasure boats at places on Puget Sound frequented by such boats and where the commission shall find such facilities will be of greatest advantage to the users of pleasure boats. The commission is authorized to acquire land or to make use of lands belonging to the state for such purposes, and to construct the necessary floats, launch ramp, and other desirable structures and to make such further development of any area used in connection therewith as in the judgment of the commission is best calculated to facilitate the public enjoyment thereof.
[ 1999 c 249 § 904; 1965 c 8 § 43.51.220; 1949 c 154 § 1; RRS § 10768-4d; ]
Prior to transferring ownership of a commission-owned vessel, the commission shall conduct a thorough review of the physical condition of the vessel, the vessel's operating capability, and any containers and other materials that are not fixed to the vessel.
If the commission determines the vessel is in a state of advanced deterioration or poses a reasonably imminent threat to human health or safety, including a threat of environmental contamination, that the commission may: (a) Not transfer the vessel until the conditions identified under this subsection have been corrected; or (b) permanently dispose of the vessel by landfill, deconstruction, or other related method.
Vessels taken into custody under chapter 79.100 RCW are not subject to this section or RCW 79A.05.189.
[ 2013 c 291 § 11; ]
Following the inspection required under RCW 79A.05.187 and prior to transferring ownership of a commission-owned vessel, the commission shall obtain the following from the transferee:
The purposes for which the transferee intends to use the vessel; and
Information demonstrating the prospective owner's intent to obtain legal moorage following the transfer, in the manner determined by the commission.
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The commission shall remove any containers or other materials that are not fixed to the vessel and contain hazardous substances, as defined under RCW 70A.305.020.
However, the commission may transfer a vessel with:
Those containers or materials described under (a) of this subsection where the transferee demonstrates to the commission's satisfaction that the container's or material's presence is consistent with the anticipated use of the vessel; and
A reasonable amount of fuel as determined by the commission, based on factors including the vessel's size, condition, and anticipated use of the vessel, including initial destination following transfer.
The commission may consult with the department of ecology in carrying out the requirements of this subsection.
Prior to sale, and unless the vessel has a title or valid marine document, the commission is required to apply for a certificate of title for the vessel under RCW 88.02.510 and register the vessel under RCW 88.02.550.
[ 2021 c 65 § 91; 2013 c 291 § 12; ]
By September 1, 1997, the commission shall increase the area available for use by recreational metal detectors by at least two hundred acres.
Beginning September 1, 1998, and each year thereafter until August 31, 2003, the commission shall increase the area of land available for use by recreational metal detectors by at least fifty acres.
[ 1997 c 150 § 2; ]
The commission shall develop a cost-effective plan to identify historic archaeological resources in at least one state park containing a military fort located in Puget Sound. The plan shall include the use of a professional archaeologist and volunteer citizens.
Any parkland that is made available for use by recreational metal detectors under this section shall count toward the requirements established in RCW 79A.05.190.
[ 1999 c 249 § 905; 1997 c 150 § 3; ]
The powers, functions, and duties heretofore exercised by the department of fish and wildlife, or its director, respecting the management, control, and operation of the following enumerated tidelands, which are presently suitable for public recreational use, are hereby transferred to the parks and recreation commission which shall also have respecting such tidelands all the powers conferred by this chapter, as now or hereafter amended, respecting parks and parkways:
Parcel No. 1. (Toandos Peninsula) The tidelands of the second class, owned by the state of Washington, situate in front of, adjacent to, or abutting upon lots 1, 2, and 3, section 5, lots 1, 2, and 3, section 4, and lot 1, section 3, all in township 25 north, range 1 west, W.M., with a frontage of 158.41 lineal chains, more or less.
Parcel No. 2. (Shine) The tidelands of the second class, owned by the state of Washington, situate in front of, adjacent to, or abutting upon lots 1, 2, 3 and that portion of lot 4 lying north of the south 8.35 chains thereof as measured along the government meander line, all in section 35, township 28 north, range 1 east, W.M., with a frontage of 76.70 lineal chains, more or less.
Subject to an easement for right-of-way for county road granted to Jefferson county December 8, 1941 under application No. 1731, records of department of public lands.
Parcel No. 3. (Mud Bay - Lopez Island) The tidelands of the second class, owned by the state of Washington situate in front of, adjacent to, or abutting upon lots 5, 6 and 7, section 18, lot 5, section 7 and lots 3, 4, and 5, section 8, all in township 34 north, range 1 west, W.M., with a frontage of 172.11 lineal chains, more or less.
Excepting, however, any tideland of the second class in front of said lot 3, section 8 conveyed through deeds issued April 14, 1909 pursuant to the provisions of chapter 24, Laws of 1895 under application No. 4985, records of department of public lands.
Parcel No. 4. (Spencer Spit) The tidelands of the second class, owned by the state of Washington, situate in front of, adjacent to, or abutting upon lots 1, 3, and 4, section 7, and lot 5, section 18 all in township 35 north, range 1 west, W.M., with a frontage of 118.80 lineal chains, more or less.
Parcel No. 5. (Lilliwaup) The tidelands of the second class, owned by the state of Washington, lying easterly of the east line of vacated state oyster reserve plat No. 133 produced southerly and situate in front of, adjacent to or abutting upon lot 9, section 30, lot 8, section 19 and lot 5 and the south 20 acres of lot 4, section 20, all in township 23 north, range 3 west, W.M., with a frontage of 62.46 lineal chains, more or less.
[ 2000 c 11 § 32; 1967 ex.s. c 96 § 1; ]
The state parks and recreation commission may take appropriate action to provide public and private access, including roads and docks, to and from the tidelands described in RCW 79A.05.200.
[ 2000 c 11 § 33; 1967 ex.s. c 96 § 2; ]
The department of natural resources and the commission shall have authority to negotiate sales to the commission, for park and outdoor recreation purposes, of trust lands at fair market value.
The department of natural resources and the commission shall negotiate a sale to the commission of the lands and timber thereon identified in the joint study under section 4, chapter 163, Laws of 1985, and commonly referred to as the Point Lawrence trust property, San Juan county — on the extreme east point of Orcas Island. Timber conservation and management practices provided for in RCW 79A.05.035 and 79A.05.305 shall govern the management of land and timber transferred under this subsection as of the effective date of the transfer, upon payment for the property, and nothing in this chapter shall be construed as restricting or otherwise modifying the department of natural resources' management, control, or use of such land and timber until such date.
[ 1999 c 249 § 906; 1995 c 211 § 4; 1992 c 185 § 1; 1988 c 79 § 1; 1987 c 466 § 1; 1985 c 163 § 1; 1981 c 271 § 1; 1980 c 4 § 1; 1971 ex.s. c 210 § 1; ]
The state parks renewal and stewardship account is created in the state treasury. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, all receipts from user fees, concessions, leases, donations collected under RCW 46.16A.090(3), and other state park-based activities shall be deposited into the account. The proceeds from the recreation access pass account created in RCW 79A.80.090 must be used for the purpose of operating and maintaining state parks. Expenditures from the account may be used for operating state parks, developing and renovating park facilities, undertaking deferred maintenance, enhancing park stewardship, and other state park purposes. Expenditures from the account may be made only after appropriation by the legislature.
[ 2011 c 320 § 22; 2013 2nd sp.s. c 15 § 7; 2010 c 161 § 1164; 2007 c 340 § 2; 1995 c 211 § 7; ]
The parks and recreation commission and the department of natural resources may periodically conduct a joint review of trust lands managed by the department to identify those parcels which may be appropriate for transfer to the commission for public recreation purposes.
[ 1987 c 466 § 3; ]
In addition to its other powers, duties, and functions the commission may:
Plan, construct, and maintain suitable facilities for winter recreational activities on lands administered or acquired by the commission or as authorized on lands administered by other public agencies or private landowners by agreement;
Provide and issue upon payment of the proper fee, under RCW 79A.05.230, 79A.05.240, and 46.61.585, with the assistance of such authorized agents as may be necessary for the convenience of the public, special permits to park in designated winter recreational area parking spaces;
Administer the snow removal operations for all designated winter recreational area parking spaces; and
Compile, publish, and distribute maps indicating such parking spaces, adjacent trails, and areas and facilities suitable for winter recreational activities.
The commission must require the winter recreation program and its services to be self-supported solely through permit fees, gifts, grants, donations, and other revenues dedicated to the winter recreational program account in RCW 79A.05.235 and the snowmobile account in *RCW 46.10.075.
The commission may contract with any public or private agency for the actual conduct of such duties, but shall remain responsible for the proper administration thereof. The commission is not liable for unintentional injuries to users of lands administered for winter recreation purposes under this section or under RCW 46.10.370, whether the lands are administered by the commission, by other public agencies, or by private landowners through agreement with the commission. Nothing in this section prevents the liability of the commission for injuries sustained by a user by reason of a known dangerous artificial latent condition for which warning signs have not been conspicuously posted. A road covered with snow and groomed for the purposes of winter recreation consistent with this chapter and chapter 46.10 RCW shall not be presumed to be a known dangerous artificial latent condition for the purposes of this chapter.
[ 2011 c 320 § 25; 2011 c 171 § 116; 1999 c 249 § 1401; 1990 c 136 § 2; 1990 c 49 § 2; 1982 c 11 § 1; 1975 1st ex.s. c 209 § 1; ]
The fee for the issuance of special winter recreational area parking permits shall be determined by the commission after consultation with the winter recreation advisory committee. If the person making application therefor is also the owner of a snowmobile registered pursuant to chapter 46.10 RCW, there shall be no fee for the issuance of an annual permit. All special winter recreational area parking permits shall commence and expire on the dates established by the commission.
[ 1990 c 49 § 3; 1986 c 47 § 1; 1982 c 11 § 2; 1975 1st ex.s. c 209 § 2; ]
There is hereby created the winter recreational program account in the state treasury. Special winter recreational area parking permit fees collected under this chapter shall be remitted to the state treasurer to be deposited in the winter recreational program account and shall be appropriated only to the commission for nonsnowmobile winter recreation purposes including the administration, acquisition, development, operation, planning, and maintenance of winter recreation facilities and the development and implementation of winter recreation, safety, enforcement, and education programs. The commission may accept gifts, grants, donations, or moneys from any source for deposit in the winter recreational program account.
Any public agency in this state may develop and implement winter recreation programs. The commission may make grants to public agencies and contract with any public or private agency or person to develop and implement winter recreation programs.
[ 1991 sp.s. c 13 § 6; 1985 c 57 § 35; 1982 c 11 § 3; 1975 1st ex.s. c 209 § 3; ]
The commission may, after consultation with the winter recreation advisory committee, adopt rules and regulations prohibiting or restricting overnight parking at any special state winter recreational parking areas owned or administered by it. Where such special state winter recreational parking areas are administered by the commission pursuant to an agreement with other public agencies, such agreement may provide for prohibition or restriction of overnight parking.
[ 1982 c 11 § 4; 1975 1st ex.s. c 209 § 4; ]
See RCW 46.61.587.
[ ]
The commission may adopt such rules as are necessary to implement and enforce RCW 79A.05.225 through 79A.05.240 and 46.61.585 after consultation with the winter recreation advisory committee.
[ 2000 c 11 § 34; 1982 c 11 § 5; 1975 1st ex.s. c 209 § 7; ]
There is created a winter recreation advisory committee to advise the parks and recreation commission in the administration of this chapter and to assist and advise the commission in the development of winter recreation facilities and programs.
The committee shall consist of:
Six representatives of the nonsnowmobiling winter recreation public appointed by the commission, including a resident of each of the six geographical areas of this state where nonsnowmobiling winter recreation activity occurs, as defined by the commission.
Three representatives of the snowmobiling public appointed by the commission.
One representative of the department of natural resources, one representative of the department of fish and wildlife, and one representative of the Washington state association of counties, each of whom shall be appointed by the director of the particular department or association.
The terms of the members appointed under subsection (2)(a) and (b) of this section shall begin on October 1st of the year of appointment and shall be for three years or until a successor is appointed, except in the case of appointments to fill vacancies for the remainder of the unexpired term: PROVIDED, That the first of these members shall be appointed for terms as follows: Three members shall be appointed for one year, three members shall be appointed for two years, and three members shall be appointed for three years.
Members of the committee shall be reimbursed from the winter recreational program account created by RCW 79A.05.235 for travel expenses as provided in RCW 43.03.050 and 43.03.060.
The committee shall meet at times and places it determines not less than twice each year and additionally as required by the committee chair or by majority vote of the committee. The chair of the committee shall be chosen under procedures adopted by the committee. The committee shall adopt any other procedures necessary to govern its proceedings.
The director of parks and recreation or the director's designee shall serve as secretary to the committee and shall be a nonvoting member.
[ 2000 c 48 § 1; 2000 c 11 § 35; 1994 c 264 § 19; 1990 c 49 § 1; 1989 c 175 § 107; 1988 c 36 § 16; 1987 c 330 § 1101; 1986 c 47 § 2; 1982 c 11 § 6; 1975 1st ex.s. c 209 § 8; ]
The legislature hereby names the golf course located at Sun Lakes State Park the "Vic Meyers Golf Course", and Rainbow Lake shall be re-named "Vic Meyers Lake". The state shall provide and install a proper marker in a suitable location in the main activity area of the park which will set forth the key role Victor Aloysius Meyers had in the development of Sun Lakes State Park and the important part he had for many years in the political and governmental history of the state. In addition, the name hereby established for the golf course shall be prominently displayed at the golf course clubhouse.
The legislature finds it appropriate to so honor Victor Aloysius Meyers for his long and dedicated service to the people of this state.
[ 1977 ex.s. c 266 § 1; ]
The legislature finds that there is a need for hostels in the state for the safety and welfare of transient persons with limited resources. It is the intent of RCW 79A.05.265 through 79A.05.275 that such facilities be established using locally donated structures. It is the further intent of RCW 79A.05.265 through 79A.05.275 that the state dispense any available federal or other moneys for such related projects and provide assistance where possible.
[ 2000 c 11 § 36; 1977 ex.s. c 281 § 1; ]
For purposes of *this chapter, "hostel" means a simple basic structure that serves as a safe, low-cost accommodation for mobile people of all ages from this country and abroad.
[ 1977 ex.s. c 281 § 2; ]
Any political subdivision of the state is authorized to establish hostels within its jurisdiction. The facilities and services shall include, but not be limited to:
Short term sleeping accommodations including adequate restroom and bathing facilities; and
Information and referral services, including, but not limited to availability of employment and health services.
Details of operations and regulations, including the establishment of appropriate fees to recover actual operating and maintenance costs, shall be within the discretion of the operating authority: PROVIDED, That the consumption of alcoholic beverages or the possession or use of a controlled substance in violation of chapter 69.50 RCW shall be prohibited.
[ 1977 ex.s. c 281 § 3; ]
The parks and recreation commission is authorized to accept grants or moneys from any federal or private source for support of hostels. The commission at its discretion is directed to apportion and transfer any such moneys to contracting agencies or political subdivisions which operate hostels: PROVIDED, That the commission shall establish rules and regulations for the operation of hostels which are substantially similar to the operating standards and customs established by the American Youth Hostels Incorporated.
[ 1977 ex.s. c 281 § 4; ]
The commission is authorized to evaluate and acquire land under *RCW 79.01.612 in cooperation with the department of natural resources.
[ 1999 c 249 § 907; ]
The commission may select land held by the department of natural resources for acquisition under RCW 79A.50.010 et seq.
[ 1999 c 249 § 908; ]
For the reasons specified in RCW 79A.25.250, the state parks and recreation commission shall place a high priority on the establishment of urban area state parks and shall revise its plan for future state parks to achieve this priority. This section shall be implemented by January 1, 1981.
[ 2000 c 11 § 37; 1980 c 89 § 4; ]
The legislature declares that it is the continuing policy of the state of Washington to set aside and manage certain lands within the state for public park purposes. To comply with public park purposes, these lands shall be acquired and managed to:
Maintain and enhance ecological, aesthetic, and recreational purposes;
Preserve and maintain mature and old-growth forests containing trees of over ninety years and other unusual ecosystems as natural forests or natural areas, which may also be used for interpretive purposes;
Protect cultural and historical resources, locations, and artifacts, which may also be used for interpretive purposes;
Provide a variety of recreational opportunities to the public, including but not limited to use of developed recreation areas, trails, and natural areas;
Preserve and maintain habitat which will protect and promote endangered, threatened, and sensitive plants, endangered, threatened, and sensitive animal species, and habitat beneficial for the feeding, nesting, and reproduction of all pollinators, including honey bees; and
Encourage public participation in the formulation and implementation of park policies and programs.
[ 2019 c 353 § 9; 1984 c 82 § 2; ]
The state parks and recreation commission shall:
Coordinate a statewide program of boating safety education using to the maximum extent possible existing programs offered by the United States power squadron and the United States coast guard auxiliary;
Adopt rules in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW, consistent with United States coast guard regulations, standards, and precedents, as needed for the efficient administration and enforcement of this section;
Enter into agreements aiding the administration of this chapter;
Adopt and administer a casualty and accident reporting program consistent with United States coast guard regulations;
Adopt and enforce recreational boating safety rules, including but not necessarily limited to equipment and navigating requirements, consistent with United States coast guard regulations;
Coordinate with local and state agencies the development of biennial plans and programs for the enhancement of boating safety, safety education, and enforcement of safety rules and laws; allocate money appropriated to the commission for these programs as necessary; and accept and administer any public or private grants or federal funds which are obtained for these purposes under chapter 43.88 RCW; and
Take additional actions necessary to gain acceptance of a program of boating safety for this state under the federal boating safety act of 1971.
[ 1998 c 245 § 66; 1994 c 151 § 3; 1984 c 183 § 4; 1983 2nd ex.s. c 3 § 52; ]
The legislature finds that the parks and recreation lands owned and managed by the commission are a significant collection of valuable scenic, natural, cultural, and historical resources for the citizens of Washington state. The legislature further finds that if citizens understand and appreciate the scenic, natural, cultural, and historical resources present in Washington's state parks, they will be inspired to conserve this important legacy for future generations. Therefore, the commission may use its facilities and resources to provide scenic, natural, cultural, or historical resource interpretation throughout the state parks system.
[ 2014 c 86 § 1; 1991 c 107 § 1; ]
The commission may provide scenic, natural, cultural, or historical resource interpretive activities for visitors to state parks that:
Explain the functions, history, significance, and cultural aspects of ecosystems;
Explain the relationship between human needs, human behaviors and attitudes, and the environment;
Explain the diverse human heritage and cultural changes over time in Washington state;
Offer experiences and information to increase citizen understanding, appreciation, and stewardship of their natural, cultural, ethnic, and artistic heritage; and
Explain the need for natural, cultural, and historical resource protection and preservation as well as the methods by which these goals can be achieved.
[ 2014 c 86 § 2; 1991 c 107 § 2; ]
The commission may consult and enter into agreements with and solicit assistance from other public agencies, the state parks foundation, private entities, employee business units, and tribes that are interested in stewarding and interpreting state parks scenic, natural, cultural, and recreational resources.
[ 2014 c 86 § 3; 1991 c 107 § 3; ]
When entering into any agreement under RCW 79A.05.345 or otherwise involving the management of state parkland or a facility by a public or private partner, the commission shall consider, when appropriate:
If the entity has an adequate source of available funding to assume the financial responsibilities of the agreement;
If the entity has sufficient expertise to assume the scope of responsibilities of the agreement;
If the agreement results in net financial benefits to the state; and
If the agreement results in advancement of the commission's public purpose.
Any agreement subject to this section must include specific performance measures. The performance measures must cover, but are not limited to, the entity's ability to manage financial operating costs, to adequately perform management responsibilities, and to address and respond to public concerns. The agreement must provide that failure to meet any performance measure may lead to the termination of the contract or requirements for remedial action to be taken before the agreement may be extended.
The commission's authority to enter into agreements under this section, RCW 79A.05.087, or 79A.05.345 does not include the ability to rename any state park after a corporate or commercial entity, product, or service.
[ 2014 c 86 § 5; ]
The outdoor education and recreation grant program is hereby created, subject to the availability of funds in the outdoor education and recreation account. The commission shall establish and implement the program by rule to provide opportunities for public agencies, private nonprofit organizations, formal school programs, nonformal after-school programs, and community-based programs to receive grants from the account. Programs that provide outdoor education opportunities to schools shall be fully aligned with the state's essential academic learning requirements.
The program shall be phased in beginning with the schools and students with the greatest needs in suburban, rural, and urban areas of the state. The program shall focus on students who qualify for free and reduced-price lunch, who are most likely to fail academically, or who have the greatest potential to drop out of school.
The director shall set priorities and develop criteria for the awarding of grants to outdoor environmental, ecological, agricultural, or other natural resource-based education and recreation programs considering at least the following:
Programs that contribute to the reduction of academic failure and dropout rates;
Programs that make use of research-based, effective environmental, ecological, agricultural, or other natural resource-based education curriculum;
Programs that contribute to healthy life styles through outdoor recreation and sound nutrition;
Various Washington state parks as venues and use of the commission's personnel as a resource;
Programs that maximize the number of participants that can be served;
Programs that will commit matching and in-kind resources;
Programs that create partnerships with public and private entities;
Programs that provide students with opportunities to directly experience and understand nature and the natural world;
Programs that include ongoing program evaluation, assessment, and reporting of their effectiveness; and
Programs that utilize veterans for at least fifty percent of program implementation or administration.
The director shall create an advisory committee to assist and advise the commission in the development and administration of the outdoor education and recreation program. The director should solicit representation on the committee from the office of the superintendent of public instruction, the department of fish and wildlife, the business community, outdoor organizations with an interest in education, and any others the commission deems sufficient to ensure a cross section of stakeholders. When the director creates such an advisory committee, its members shall be reimbursed from the outdoor education and recreation program account for travel expenses as provided in RCW 43.03.050 and 43.03.060.
The outdoor education and recreation program account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. Funds deposited in the outdoor education and recreation program account shall be transferred only to the commission to be used solely for the commission's outdoor education and recreation program purposes identified in this section including the administration of the program. The director may accept gifts, grants, donations, or moneys from any source for deposit in the outdoor education and recreation program account. Any public agency in this state may develop and implement outdoor education and recreation programs. The director may make grants to public agencies and contract with any public or private agency or person to develop and implement outdoor education and recreation programs. The outdoor education and recreation program account is subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but an appropriation is not required for expenditures.
[ 2015 c 245 § 1; 2007 c 176 § 2; ]
The state parks and recreation commission shall act as the lead agency for the establishment of underwater parks in state waters and for environmental reviews of projects necessary to establish underwater parks. The commission may enter into interagency agreements to facilitate timely receipt of necessary permits from other state agencies and local governments.
[ 1993 c 267 § 1; ]
The commission may establish a system of underwater parks to provide for diverse recreational diving opportunities and to conserve and protect unique marine resources of the state of Washington. In establishing and maintaining an underwater park system, the commission may:
Plan, construct, and maintain underwater parks;
Acquire property and enter management agreements with other units of state government for the management of lands, tidelands, and bedlands as underwater parks;
Construct artificial reefs and other underwater features to enhance marine life and recreational uses of an underwater park;
Accept gifts and donations for the benefit of underwater parks;
Facilitate private efforts to construct artificial reefs and underwater parks;
Work with the federal government, local governments and other appropriate agencies of state government, including but not limited to: The department of natural resources, the department of fish and wildlife and the natural heritage council to carry out the purposes of this chapter; and
Contract with other state agencies or local governments for the management of an underwater park unit.
[ 1999 c 249 § 1301; 1994 c 264 § 20; 1993 c 267 § 2; ]
In establishing an underwater park system, the commission shall seek to create diverse recreational opportunities in areas throughout Washington state. The commission shall place a high priority upon creating units that possess unique or diverse marine life or underwater natural or artificial features such as shipwrecks.
[ 1993 c 267 § 4; ]
The commission is not liable for unintentional injuries to users of underwater parks, whether the facilities are administered by the commission or by another entity or person. However, nothing in this section prevents the liability of the commission for injuries sustained by a user by reason of a known dangerous artificial latent condition for which warning signs have not been conspicuously posted.
[ 1993 c 267 § 5; ]
The legislature recognizes the increase in water-oriented recreation by users of human and wind-powered, beachable vessels such as kayaks, canoes, or day sailors on Washington's waters. These recreationists frequently require overnight camping facilities along the shores of public or private beaches. The legislature now creates a water trail recreation program, to be administered by the Washington state parks and recreation commission. The legislature recognizes that the effort to develop water trail sites is a continuing need and that the commission provides beneficial expertise and consultation to water trail user groups, agencies, and private landowners for the existing Cascadia marine trail and Willapa Bay water trail.
[ 2003 c 338 § 1; 1993 c 182 § 1; ]
In addition to its other powers, duties, and functions, the commission may:
Plan, construct, and maintain suitable facilities for water trail activities on lands administered or acquired by the commission or as authorized on lands administered by tribes or other public agencies or private landowners by agreement.
Compile, publish, distribute, and charge a fee for maps or other forms of public information indicating areas and facilities suitable for water trail activities.
Contract with a public agency, private entity, or person for the actual conduct of these duties.
Work with individuals or organizations who wish to volunteer their time to support the water trail recreation program.
Provide expertise and consultation to individuals, agencies, and organizations in the continued development of water trail sites in this state.
[ 2003 c 338 § 2; 2003 c 126 § 601; 1993 c 182 § 2; ]
The commission may make water trail program grants to public agencies or tribal governments and may contract with any public agency, tribal government, entity, or person to develop and implement water trail programs.
[ 1993 c 182 § 3; ]
The commission is not liable for unintentional injuries to users of facilities administered for water trail purposes under this chapter, whether the facilities are administered by the commission or by any other entity or person. However, nothing in this section prevents the liability of the commission for injuries sustained by a user by reason of a known dangerous artificial latent condition for which warning signs have not been conspicuously posted.
[ 1993 c 182 § 4; ]
The commission may adopt rules to administer the water trail program and facilities on areas owned or administered by the commission. Where water trail facilities administered by other public or private entities are incorporated into the water trail system, the rules adopted by those entities shall prevail. The commission is not responsible or liable for enforcement of these alternative rules.
[ 2003 c 338 § 3; 2003 c 126 § 603; 1993 c 182 § 7; ]
Violation of the provisions of the commission's rules governing the use of water trail facilities and property shall constitute a civil infraction, punishable as provided under chapter 7.84 RCW.
[ 1993 c 182 § 8; ]
Any unspent balance of funds in the water trail program account created in *RCW 79A.05.405 as of June 30, 2003, must be transferred to the state parks renewal and stewardship account created in RCW 79A.05.215. All receipts from sales of materials under RCW 79A.05.385 and all monetary civil penalties collected under RCW 79A.05.415 must be deposited in the state parks renewal and stewardship account. Any gifts, grants, donations, or moneys from any source received by the commission for the water trail program must also be deposited in the state parks renewal and stewardship account. Funds transferred or deposited into the state parks renewal and stewardship account under this section must be used solely for water trail program purposes.
[ 2003 c 338 § 4; ]
The commission shall cooperate, when appropriate, as a partner in the Washington conservation corps established in chapter 43.220 RCW.
[ 2011 c 20 § 14; 1999 c 249 § 701; ]
The beaches bounding the Pacific Ocean from the Straits of Juan de Fuca to Cape Disappointment at the mouth of the Columbia River constitute some of the last unspoiled seashore remaining in the United States. They provide the public with almost unlimited opportunities for recreational activities, like swimming, surfing and hiking; for outdoor sports, like hunting, fishing, clamming, and boating; for the observation of nature as it existed for hundreds of years before the arrival of Europeans; and for relaxation away from the pressures and tensions of modern life. In past years, these recreational activities have been enjoyed by countless Washington citizens, as well as by tourists from other states and countries. The number of people wishing to participate in such recreational activities grows annually. This increasing public pressure makes it necessary that the state dedicate the use of the ocean beaches to public recreation and to provide certain recreational and sanitary facilities. Nonrecreational use of the beach must be strictly limited. Even recreational uses must be regulated in order that Washington's unrivaled seashore may be saved for our children in much the same form as we know it today.
[ 2009 c 549 § 1029; 1967 c 120 § 1; ]
There is established for the recreational use and enjoyment of the public the Washington State Seashore Conservation Area. It shall include all lands now or hereafter under state ownership or control lying between Cape Disappointment and Leadbetter Point; between Toke Point and the South jetty on Point Chehalis; and between Damon Point and the Makah Indian Reservation and occupying the area between the line of ordinary high tide and the line of extreme low tide, as these lines now are or may hereafter be located, and, where applicable, between the Seashore Conservation Line, as established by survey of the Washington state parks and recreation commission and the line of extreme low tide, as these lines now are or may hereafter be located; and shall also include all state-owned nontrust accreted lands along the ocean: PROVIDED, That no such conservation area shall include any lands within the established boundaries of any Indian reservation.
[ 1969 ex.s. c 55 § 1; 1967 c 120 § 2; ]
Except as otherwise provided in RCW 79A.05.600 through 79A.05.630, the Washington State Seashore Conservation Area shall be under the jurisdiction of the Washington state parks and recreation commission, which shall administer RCW 79A.05.600 through 79A.05.630 in accordance with the powers granted it herein and under the appropriate provisions of this chapter.
[ 2000 c 11 § 46; 1969 ex.s. c 55 § 2; 1967 c 120 § 3; ]
The Washington state parks and recreation commission shall administer the Washington State Seashore Conservation Area in harmony with the broad principles set forth in RCW 79A.05.600. Where feasible, the area shall be preserved in its present state; everywhere it shall be maintained in the best possible condition for public use. All forms of public outdoor recreation shall be permitted and encouraged in the area, unless specifically excluded or limited by the commission. While the primary purpose in the establishment of the area is to preserve the coastal beaches for public recreation, other uses shall be allowed as provided in RCW 79A.05.600 through 79A.05.630, or when found not inconsistent with public recreational use by the Washington state parks and recreation commission.
[ 2000 c 11 § 47; 1969 ex.s. c 55 § 3; 1967 c 120 § 4; ]
In administering the Washington State Seashore Conservation Area, the Washington state parks and recreation commission shall seek the cooperation and assistance of federal agencies, other state agencies, and local political subdivisions. All state agencies, and the governing officials of each local subdivision shall cooperate with the commission in carrying out its duties. Except as otherwise provided in RCW 79A.05.600 through 79A.05.630, and notwithstanding any other provision of law, other state agencies and local subdivisions shall perform duties in the Washington State Seashore Conservation Area which are within their normal jurisdiction, except when such performance clearly conflicts with the purposes of RCW 79A.05.600 through 79A.05.630.
[ 2000 c 11 § 48; 1969 ex.s. c 55 § 4; 1967 c 120 § 5; ]
Nothing in RCW 79A.05.600 through 79A.05.630 and 79A.05.635 through 79A.05.695 shall be construed to interfere with the powers, duties and authority of the department of fish and wildlife to regulate the conservation or taking of food fish and shellfish. Nor shall anything in RCW 79A.05.600 through 79A.05.630 and 79A.05.635 through 79A.05.695 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 wildlife within such area: PROVIDED, HOWEVER, That no hunting shall be permitted in any state park.
[ 2000 c 11 § 49; 1994 c 264 § 22; 1988 c 75 § 17; 1987 c 506 § 92; 1983 c 3 § 109; 1969 ex.s. c 55 § 5; 1967 c 120 § 6; ]
Lands within the Seashore Conservation Area shall not be sold, leased, or otherwise disposed of, except as provided in this section.
The commission may, under authority granted in RCW 79A.05.175 and 79A.05.180, exchange state parklands in the Seashore Conservation Area for lands of equal value to be managed by the commission consistent with this chapter. Only state parklands lying east of the Seashore Conservation Line, as it is located at the time of exchange, may be so exchanged.
The commission may, under authority granted in RCW 79A.05.178, directly dispose of up to five contiguous acres of real property, without public auction, to resolve trespass, property ownership disputes, and boundary adjustments with adjacent property owners. Real property to be disposed of under this subsection may be disposed of only after appraisal and for at least fair market value, and only if the transaction is in the best interest of the state. All conveyance documents shall be executed by the governor. All proceeds from the disposal of the property shall be paid into the parkland acquisition account and proceeds received pursuant to any sale under this subsection shall be reinvested in real property located inside or within one mile of the Seashore Conservation Area.
The department of natural resources may lease the lands within the Washington State Seashore Conservation Area as well as the accreted lands along the ocean in state ownership for the exploration and production of oil and gas except that oil drilling rigs and equipment shall not be placed on the Seashore Conservation Area or state-owned accreted lands.
Sale of sand from accretions shall be made to supply the needs of cranberry growers for cranberry bogs in the vicinity and shall not be prohibited if found by the commission to be reasonable, and not generally harmful or destructive to the character of the land. The commission may grant leases and permits for the removal of sands for construction purposes from any lands within the Seashore Conservation Area if found by the commission to be reasonable and not generally harmful or destructive to the character of the land. Net income from such leases shall be deposited in the state parks renewal and stewardship account.
[ 2011 c 184 § 1; 2000 c 11 § 50; 2003 1st sp.s. c 26 § 929; 1997 c 137 § 4; 1995 c 203 § 1; 1988 c 75 § 18; 1969 ex.s. c 55 § 6; 1967 c 120 § 8; ]
A cooperative program to provide recreation management plans for the ocean beaches that comprise the Seashore Conservation Area established by RCW 79A.05.605 is created.
[ 2000 c 11 § 51; 1988 c 75 § 1; ]
Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the definitions in this section apply to RCW 79A.05.600 through 79A.05.695.
"Local government" means a county, city, or town.
"Ocean beaches" include the three ocean beaches described in RCW 79A.05.605.
"Pedestrian use" means any use that does not involve a motorized vehicle.
[ 2000 c 11 § 52; 1988 c 75 § 2; ]
Local governments having a portion of the Seashore Conservation Area within their boundaries may, individually or through an agreement with other local governments located on the same ocean beach, adopt a recreation management plan which meets the requirements of RCW 79A.05.600 through 79A.05.695 for that portion of the ocean beach. The legislature hereby encourages adoption of a single plan for each beach.
[ 2000 c 11 § 53; 1988 c 75 § 3; ]
Except as provided in RCW 79A.05.655 and 79A.05.660, a total of forty percent of the length of the beach subject to the recreation management plan shall be reserved for pedestrian use under this section and RCW 79A.05.665. Restrictions on motorized traffic under this section shall be from April 15th to the day following Labor day of each year. Local jurisdictions may adopt provisions within recreation management plans that exceed the requirements of this section. The commission shall not require that a plan designate for pedestrian use more than forty percent of the land subject to the plan.
In designating areas to be reserved for pedestrian use, the plan shall consider the following:
Public safety;
Statewide interest in recreational use of the ocean beaches;
Protection of shorebird and marine mammal habitats;
Preservation of native beach vegetation;
Protection of sand dune topography;
Prudent management of clam beds;
Economic impacts to the local community; and
Public access and parking availability.
[ 2000 c 11 § 54; 1988 c 75 § 4; ]
Notwithstanding RCW 79A.05.650(1), recreation management plans may make provision for vehicular traffic on areas otherwise reserved for pedestrian use in order to:
Facilitate clam digging;
Accommodate organized recreational events of not more than seven consecutive days duration;
Provide for removal of wood debris under RCW 4.24.210 and 79A.05.035(5); and
Accommodate removal of sand located upland from the Seashore Conservation Area or removal of sand within the Seashore Conservation Area under the terms of a covenant, easement, or deed.
[ 2000 c 11 § 55; 1988 c 75 § 5; ]
Recreation management plans shall not prohibit or restrict public vehicles operated in the performance of official duties, vehicles responding to an emergency, or vehicles specially authorized by the director or the director's designee.
[ 1999 c 249 § 1101; 1988 c 75 § 6; ]
Recreation management plans shall, upon request of the commission, reserve on a permanent, seasonal, or temporary basis, land adjoining national wildlife refuges and state parks for pedestrian use. After a plan is approved, the commission may require local jurisdictions to adopt amendments to the plan governing driving on land adjoining wildlife refuges and state parks. Land reserved for pedestrian use under this section for at least the period from April 15th through the day following Labor Day of each year shall be included when determining compliance with the requirements of RCW 79A.05.650.
[ 2000 c 11 § 56; 1988 c 75 § 7; ]
In preparing, adopting, or approving a recreation management plan, local jurisdictions and the commission shall consult with the department of fish and wildlife and the United States fish and wildlife service.
[ 1999 c 249 § 1102; 1988 c 75 § 8; ]
Recreation management plans shall comply with all applicable federal and state laws.
[ 1988 c 75 § 9; ]
Before adopting a recreation management plan, or amendments to an existing plan, local jurisdictions shall conduct a public hearing. Notice of the hearing shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation in each jurisdiction adopting the plan as well as in a newspaper of general statewide circulation on at least two occasions not less than fourteen days before the first day of the hearing. When a proposed recreation management plan has been prepared by more than one jurisdiction, joint hearings may be conducted.
[ 1988 c 75 § 10; ]
Recreation management plans shall be adopted by each participating jurisdiction and submitted to the commission by September 1, 1989. The commission shall approve the proposed plan if, in the commission's judgment, the plan adequately fulfills the requirements of RCW 79A.05.600 through 79A.05.695.
If the proposed plan is not approved, the commission shall suggest modifications to the participating local governments. Local governments shall have ninety days after receiving the suggested modifications to resubmit a recreation management plan. Thereafter, if the commission finds that a plan does not adequately fulfill the requirements of RCW 79A.05.600 through 79A.05.695, the commission may amend the proposal or adopt an alternative plan.
If a plan for all or any portion of the Seashore Conservation Area is not submitted in accordance with RCW 79A.05.635 through 79A.05.695, the commission shall adopt a recreation management plan for that site.
Administrative rules adopted by the commission under *RCW 43.51.680 shall remain in effect for all or any portion of each ocean beach until a recreation management plan for that site is adopted or approved by the commission.
The commission shall not adopt a recreation management plan for all or any portion of an ocean beach while appeal of a commission decision regarding that site is pending.
[ 2000 c 11 § 57; 1988 c 75 § 11; ]
Any individual, partnership, corporation, association, organization, cooperative, local government, or state agency aggrieved by a decision of the commission under this chapter may appeal under chapter 34.05 RCW.
[ 1999 c 249 § 1103; 1988 c 75 § 12; ]
The commission shall cooperate with state and local law enforcement agencies in meeting the need for law enforcement within the Seashore Conservation Area.
[ 1988 c 75 § 13; ]
The ocean beaches within the Seashore Conservation Area are hereby declared a public highway and shall remain forever open to the use of the public as provided in RCW 79A.05.635 through 79A.05.695.
[ 2000 c 11 § 58; 1988 c 75 § 14; ]
Amendments to the recreation management plan may be adopted jointly by each local government participating in the plan and submitted to the commission for approval. The commission shall approve a proposed amendment if, in the commission's judgment, the amendment adequately fulfills the requirements of RCW 79A.05.600 through 79A.05.695.
After a plan is approved, the commission may require local jurisdictions to adopt amendments to the plan if the commission finds that such amendments are necessary to protect public health and safety, or to protect significant natural resources as determined by the agency having jurisdiction over the resource.
[ 2000 c 11 § 59; 1988 c 75 § 15; ]
The Green River Gorge, between the town of Kanasket and the Kummer bridge in King county, is a twelve mile spectacularly winding gorge with steep to overhanging rock walls reaching heights of from one hundred fifty to three hundred feet. The beauty and natural features of the gorge are generally confined within the canyon rim. This twelve mile gorge area contains many examples of unique biological and geological features for educational and recreational interpretation, almost two miles of Eocene sediment rocks and fossils are exposed revealing one of the most complete stratographic sections to be found in the region. The area, a unique recreational attraction with more than one million seven hundred thousand people living within an hour's driving time, is presently used by hikers, geologists, fishers, kayakers and canoeists, picnickers and swimmers, and those seeking the solitude offered by this unique area. Abutting and adjacent landowners generally have kept the gorge lands in their natural state; however, economic and urbanization pressures for development are rapidly increasing. Local and state outdoor recreation plans show a regional need for resources and facilities which could be developed in this area. A twelve-mile strip incorporating the visual basins of the Green river from the Kummer bridge to Palmer needs to be acquired and developed as a conservation area to preserve this unique area for the recreational needs of the region.
[ 2013 c 23 § 267; 1969 ex.s. c 162 § 1; ]
There is hereby created a Washington state parks and recreation commission conservation area to be known as "Green River Gorge conservation area".
[ 1969 ex.s. c 162 § 2; ]
In addition to all other powers and duties prescribed by law, the state parks and recreation commission is authorized and directed to acquire such real property, easements, or rights in the Green River Gorge in King county, together with such real property, easements, and rights as is necessary for such park and conservation purposes in any manner authorized by law for the acquisition of lands for parks and parkway purposes. Except for such real property as is necessary and convenient for development of picnicking or camping areas and their related facilities, it is the intent of this section that such property shall be acquired to preserve, as much as possible, the gorge within the canyon rim in its natural pristine state.
[ 1969 ex.s. c 162 § 3; ]
Nothing herein shall be construed as authorizing or directing the state parks and recreation commission to acquire any real property, easements, or rights in the Green River Gorge in King county which are now held by any state agency for the purposes of outdoor recreation, conservation, fish, or wildlife management or public hunting or fishing without the approval of such agency.
[ 1969 ex.s. c 162 § 4; ]
Mt. Si and Little Si in King county offer unique scenic, natural, and geological features which can be viewed from the I-90 highway. They also afford outstanding recreational opportunities enjoyed by the citizens of this state and tourists alike. The legislature recognizes the importance of guarding portions of this area from those types of development which would permanently alter the area's natural form and beauty. It further recognizes the necessity of setting forth procedures to manage the area, to enhance the opportunities afforded the state's citizens, one-half of whom live within one-half hour driving time of Mt. Si, and to safeguard to the extent possible the scenic, natural, geological, game habitat, and recreational values therein, and to safeguard and promote the upper Snoqualmie River valley's economy in which the recreational use of Mt. Si plays a pivotal role. Therefore, the legislature declares this area to be of statewide significance for the foregoing purposes to be enhanced and safeguarded in accordance with the procedures set forth in chapter 306, Laws of 1977 ex. sess.
[ 1977 ex.s. c 306 § 1; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 88 § 1; ]
There is hereby created a "Mt. Si conservation area" to include approximately twenty-five hundred acres of state, United States government, and privately owned lands within Sections 25, 26, 35, and 36, Township 24 North, Range 8 East, W.M., and Sections 2, 3, 10, 11, and 12 of Township 23 North, Range 8 East, W.M., as identified for inclusion in the conservation area and described more specifically by the Mt. Si citizen advisory subcommittee in their published report of December 6, 1976, to the Washington state department of natural resources and the Washington state parks and recreation commission as contained in the report filed by those agencies to the house and senate committees on parks and recreation, filed December 1976.
[ 1977 ex.s. c 306 § 2; ]
The state department of natural resources and the state parks and recreation commission have joined together in excellent cooperation in the conducting of this study along with the citizen advisory subcommittee and have joined together in cooperation with the department of fish and wildlife to accomplish other projects of multidisciplinary concern, and because it may be in the best interests of the state to continue such cooperation, the state parks and recreation commission, the department of natural resources, and the department of fish and wildlife are hereby directed to consider both short and long term objectives, the expertise of each agency's staff, and alternatives such as reasonably may be expected to safeguard the conservation area's values as described in RCW 79A.05.725 giving due regard to efficiency and economy of management: PROVIDED, That the interests conveyed to or by the state agencies identified in this section shall be managed by the department of natural resources until such time as the state parks and recreation commission or other public agency is managing public recreation areas and facilities located in such close proximity to the conservation area described in RCW 79A.05.730 so as to make combined management of those areas and facilities and transfer of management of the conservation area more efficient and economical than continued management by the department of natural resources. At that time the department of natural resources is directed to negotiate with the appropriate public agency for the transfer of those management responsibilities for the interests obtained within the conservation area under RCW 79A.05.725 through 79A.05.745: PROVIDED FURTHER, That the state agencies identified in this section may, by mutual agreement, undertake management of portions of the conservation area as they may from time to time determine in accordance with those rules and regulations established for natural area preserves under chapter 79.70 RCW, for natural and conservation areas under present WAC 352-16-020(3) and (6), and under chapter 77.12 RCW.
[ 2000 c 11 § 60; 1994 c 264 § 23; 1988 c 36 § 17; 1977 ex.s. c 306 § 3; ]
The full market value for department of natural resources' managed trust lands or interest therein within the conservation area shall be determined by the department of natural resources for any lands or interests to be dedicated or leased as provided herein. The department of natural resources shall determine the value of dedicating such lands or interests in lands as it may determine to be necessary to carry out the purposes of chapter 306, Laws of 1977 ex. sess. either by execution of fifty-five year scenic or development easements or by execution of fifty-five year leases, including such conditions as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of chapter 306, Laws of 1977 ex. sess. Any lease issued pursuant to chapter 306, Laws of 1977 ex. sess. may be subject to renewal under the provisions of *RCW 79.01.276 as presently existing or hereafter amended. Nothing in chapter 306, Laws of 1977 ex. sess. shall be deemed to alter or affect normal management on lands owned by the state for which no dedication by easement or lease has been made and it is further recognized that no restrictions on management of such lands shall be required unless the applicable trust relating to such lands shall have been compensated.
[ 1998 c 245 § 67; 1977 ex.s. c 306 § 4; ]
No property or interest in property shall be acquired for the purpose of chapter 306, Laws of 1977 ex. sess. by the exercise of the power of eminent domain.
[ 1977 ex.s. c 306 § 6; ]
It is the intent of RCW 79A.05.750 through 79A.05.795 to establish and recognize the Yakima river corridor from Selah Gap (Yakima Ridge) to Union Gap (Rattlesnake Hills) as a uniquely valuable recreation, conservation, and scenic resource in the state of Washington.
[ 2000 c 11 § 61; 1977 ex.s. c 75 § 1; ]
There is hereby created an area to be known as the "Washington State Yakima river conservation area". This area designation may be used as a common reference by all state and local agencies, municipalities, and federal agencies.
[ 1977 ex.s. c 75 § 3; ]
For the purposes of RCW 79A.05.750 through 79A.05.795, the Yakima river conservation area is to contain no more than the area delineated in appendix D on pages D-3, D-4, D-6, D-7, D-9, and D-10 of the report entitled "The Yakima River Regional Greenway" which resulted from the Yakima river study authorized in section 170, chapter 269, Laws of 1975, first extraordinary session. This area is also defined as sections 12 and 17, township 13 north, range 18 east totaling approximately 18.0 acres, sections 7, 17, 18, 20, 21, 28, 29, 32, 33, township 13 north, range 19 east totaling approximately 936.0 acres, and sections 4, 5, 8, 9, 17, township 12 north, range 19 east totaling approximately 793.7 acres.
[ 1999 c 249 § 1001; 1977 ex.s. c 75 § 2; ]
The Yakima county commissioners are authorized to coordinate the acquisition, development, and operation of the Yakima river conservation area in accordance with the purposes of RCW 79A.05.750 through 79A.05.795 and in cooperation with public parks, conservation and resource managing agencies.
[ 2000 c 11 § 62; 1977 ex.s. c 75 § 4; ]
The Yakima county commissioners are authorized to acquire such real property, easements or rights in river-related lands in the Yakima river conservation area, together with such real property, easements, and rights as are necessary for such conservation and parks purposes in any manner authorized by law for the acquisition of lands for conservation, parks and parkway purposes: PROVIDED, That only the Yakima county commissioners shall have the power of eminent domain for the purposes of this chapter.
[ 1977 ex.s. c 75 § 5; ]
Except for such property as is necessary or suitable for the development of recreational areas and their related facilities, it is the intent of this section that such property shall be acquired to preserve, as much as possible, the river wetlands in their natural state.
[ 1977 ex.s. c 75 § 6; ]
The Washington state parks and recreation commission is directed to consult with the Yakima county commissioners in the acquisition, development, and operation of the Yakima river conservation area in accordance with the purposes of RCW 79A.05.750 through 79A.05.795 and the Yakima river study authorized in section 170, chapter 269, Laws of 1975, first extraordinary session.
[ 2000 c 11 § 63; 1977 ex.s. c 75 § 7; ]
The recreation and conservation funding board is directed to assist the Yakima county commissioners in obtaining state, federal, and private funding for the acquisition, development, and operation of the Yakima river conservation area.
[ 2007 c 241 § 25; 1977 ex.s. c 75 § 8; ]
Nothing herein shall be construed as affecting nor being in conflict with existing county or city zoning and/or permitted land uses and the right to develop, build or expand existing uses in accordance with the said zoning or permitted land uses within the Yakima river conservation area.
[ 1977 ex.s. c 75 § 9; ]
Nothing in RCW 79A.05.750 through 79A.05.795 shall be construed to interfere with the powers, duties, and authority of the state department of fish and wildlife or the state fish and wildlife commission to regulate, manage, conserve, and provide for the harvest of wildlife within such area: PROVIDED, HOWEVER, That no hunting shall be permitted in any state park.
[ 2000 c 11 § 64; 1993 sp.s. c 2 § 19; 1987 c 506 § 93; 1977 ex.s. c 75 § 10; ]
Nothing herein shall be construed as authorizing or directing the Yakima county commissioners to acquire any real property, easements, or rights in the Yakima river conservation area which are now held by any other agency without the approval of that agency.
[ 1977 ex.s. c 75 § 11; ]
In addition to its other powers, duties, and functions, the commission must establish a scenic bikeways program for the designation and promotion of bicycle routes of notable scenic, recreational, cultural, or historic value.
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Any person may propose the designation of a scenic bikeway route by the commission. Prior to the designation of a scenic bike [bikeway] route by the commission, the commission must provide an opportunity for public comment.
When proposing routes for commission approval, proponents are encouraged to:
Consider the criteria under this section by which the commission will review and approve scenic bikeway designations, including the criteria specified in subsections (4) and (6) of this section; and
Locate routes in such a way as to encourage local economic development in proximity to designated scenic bikeways, including opportunities for bicycle repairs, food, lodging, camping, recreation, and other tourist activities.
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Scenic bikeways may be comprised of bicycle paths, multiple-use trails, highways, or trail facilities managed by the commission.
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Scenic bikeways may be located over public lands with the consent of each federal, state, or local governmental entity that has jurisdiction over the public lands or through which a proposed route passes.
Scenic bikeways may be located over privately owned lands with the consent of the private landowner.
Prior to designating a scenic bikeway, the commission must review the proposed designation in consultation with the department of transportation and confirm the designated bicycle route:
Is of notable scenic, recreational, cultural, or historic value, or some combination thereof;
Is consented to as required under subsection (3) of this section; and
To the extent feasible and consistent with the goals of this section:
Is not located on heavily trafficked roads when less-trafficked roads are available as a suitable alternative;
Is not located on highways without shoulders or bike lanes when highways with shoulders or bike lanes are available as a suitable alternative;
Avoids complex intersections or other locations that would reduce the ease of use of the scenic bikeway by users;
Is colocated with locally developed bicycle-supportive infrastructure, including bike lanes, multiuse trails, greenways, or other designated bicycle routes; and
Is designed to minimize adverse effects on adjacent landowners.
Prior to designating a scenic bikeway, the commission must consult with a local government legislative authority if the scenic bikeway will be located within the local government's jurisdiction.
To the extent that funds available for the development of scenic bikeways limit the number of designated scenic bikeways that the commission is able to approve and implement each biennium, the commission must give priority to the designation and implementation of scenic bikeways that will add variety to the geographic location, topography, route length and difficulty, and cultural, historic, scenic, and recreational value of the statewide scenic bikeway system or that will complete existing bicycling networks.
The commission must periodically review designated scenic bikeways to ensure that routes continue to meet the criteria of subsection (4) of this section. Upon review, the commission may alter the route or revoke the designation of a scenic bikeway.
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In consultation with the department of transportation, the commission must develop signage to be placed along the routes of each designated scenic bikeway.
On the commission's website, the commission must promote the use of designated scenic bikeways.
The commission may develop promotional materials, including maps or telecommunications applications for purposes of facilitating public use of designed scenic bikeways. Promotional materials created by the commission must indicate whether the bikeway is paved or gravel and any other conditions of the bikeway that affect the safety of users. Consistent with the standards of RCW 79A.05.087, the commission may encourage local economic development in proximity to designated scenic bikeways in the promotional materials by noting opportunities for bicycle repair, food, lodging, camping, recreation, and other tourist activities.
The commission must evaluate each designated scenic bikeway to determine whether the bikeway, or a portion thereof, is suitable for the use of electric bicycles and tricycles. If the commission determines that a designated scenic bikeway, or a portion thereof, is suitable for the use of electric bicycles and tricycles, the commission must allow their use on those bikeways or portions of bikeways.
A recreational access pass issued under chapter 79A.80 RCW is not required in order to use a designated scenic bikeway, except that the access pass requirements of chapter 79A.80 RCW apply to motor vehicles used to park or operate on any portion of a scenic bikeway located on a recreational site or lands, as that term is defined in RCW 79A.80.010.
The designation of a facility or roadway as a scenic bikeway by the commission does not change the liability of the commission or any other state or local government entity with respect to unintentional injury sustained by a user of a scenic bikeway. Nothing in this subsection applies or limits the applicability of the provisions of RCW 4.24.210 to roads or facilities designated as scenic bikeways.
Nothing in this section authorizes the commission to acquire property or property rights solely for purposes of development of a scenic bikeway.
The commission may enter into sponsorship agreements with nonprofit entities or private businesses or entities for sponsorship signs to be displayed on designated scenic bikeways or portions of designated scenic bikeways. The commission may establish the cost for entering into a sponsor agreement. Sponsorship agreements must comply with (a) through (d) of this subsection.
Space for a sponsorship sign may be provided by the commission on a designated scenic bikeway.
Signage erected pursuant to a sponsorship agreement must be consistent with criteria established by the commission relating to size, materials, colors, wording, and location.
The nonprofit entity or private business or entity must pay all costs of a display, including development, construction, installation, operation, maintenance, and removal costs.
Proceeds from the sponsorship agreements must be used to fund commission activities related to the scenic bikeways program. Any surplus funds resulting from sponsorship agreements must be deposited into the state parks renewal and stewardship account under RCW 79A.05.215.
The commission may adopt rules to administer the scenic bikeways program.
[ 2020 c 286 § 1; ]