Revised Code of Washington
Wash. Rev. Code § 46.10.470 (2026)
Operating upon public road or highway lawful, when
✓ current as of May 2026
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Notwithstanding the provisions of RCW 46.10.460, it shall be lawful to operate a snowmobile upon a public roadway or highway:
Where such roadway or highway is completely covered with snow or ice and has been closed by the responsible governing body to motor vehicle traffic during the winter months; or
When the responsible governing body gives notice that such roadway or highway is open to snowmobiles or all-terrain vehicle use; or
In an emergency during the period of time when and at locations where snow upon the roadway or highway renders such impassible to travel by automobile; or
When traveling along a designated snowmobile trail.
Notes:
Intent—Effective date—2011 c 171: See notes following RCW 4.24.210.
Purpose—1972 ex.s. c 153: See RCW 79A.35.070.
Notes of Decisions
Cited in 1
case, 2020–2020 · leading case: State v. Van Wolvelaere, 461 P.3d 1173 (Wash. 2020).
State v. Van Wolvelaere, 461 P.3d 1173 (Wash. 2020). “The snowmobile act, RCW 46.10.470, not only makes clear that a snowmobile is capable of moving and transporting people or property on a public highway, at least when the highway is covered with snow or ice, but also makes clear that it is legally permitted to do so.”
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