Revised Code of Washington
Wash. Rev. Code § 79.100.005 (2026)
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✓ current as of May 2026
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The legislature finds that there has been an increase in the number of derelict and abandoned vessels that are either grounded or anchored upon publicly or privately owned submerged lands. These vessels are public nuisances and safety hazards as they often pose hazards to navigation, detract from the aesthetics of Washington's waterways, and threaten the environment with the potential release of hazardous materials. The legislature further finds that the costs associated with the disposal of derelict and abandoned vessels are substantial, and that in many cases there is no way to track down the current vessel owners in order to seek compensation. As a result, the costs associated with the removal of derelict vessels becomes a burden on public entities and the taxpaying public.
[ 2002 c 286 s 1.]
Notes of Decisions
Cited in 2
cases (1 in the last 5 years), 2012–2025 · leading case: Matheson v. City of Hoquiam, 287 P.3d 619 (Wash. Ct. App. 2012).
Matheson v. City of Hoquiam, 287 P.3d 619 (Wash. Ct. App. 2012). “” RCW 79.100.005. Here, the DNR and Hoquiam validly exercised their police power to abate a public nuisance and to protect the safety *823 and general welfare of the public under Derelict Vessel Act.”
Port of Seattle v. Wang (W.D. Wash. 2025). “42 at 7 (quoting RCW 79.100.005); see also Dkt. No. 12-1. Adhering to the PCHB’s 12 decision with regard to ownership of the Vessels, which Defendant had a full opportunity to 13 challenge and litigate before the PCHB, would promote judicial economy and is in the public 14…”
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