Washington § 16.04.025 - Owner of animals unknown — Procedure.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 16.04.025 — Owner of animals unknown — Procedure., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 16.04.025. Owner of animals unknown — Procedure.

If the owner or the person having in charge or possession such animals is unknown to the person sustaining the damage, the person retaining such animals shall, within twenty-four hours, notify the county sheriff or the nearest state brand inspector as to the number, description, and location of the animals. The county sheriff or brand inspector shall examine the animals by brand, tattoo, or other identifying characteristics and attempt to ascertain ownership. If the animal is marked with a brand or tattoo which is registered with the director of agriculture, the brand inspector or county sheriff shall furnish this information and other pertinent information to the person holding the animals who in turn shall send the notice required in RCW 16.04.020 to the animals' owner of record by certified mail.
If the county sheriff or the brand inspector determines that there is no apparent damage to the property of the person retaining the animals, or if the person sustaining the damage contacts the county sheriff or brand inspector to have the animals removed from his or her property, such animals shall be removed in accordance with chapter 16.24 RCW. Such removal shall not prejudice the property owner's ability to recover damages through civil suit.
[ 1989 c 286 s 21; 1985 c 415 s 24; 1925 ex.s. c 56 s 2; 1893 c 31 s 3; RRS s 3092. Formerly RCW 16.04.020, part.]

Notes

Severability—1989 c 286: See note following RCW 16.04.010.

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 16.04.025

What does Revised Code of Washington § 16.04.025 cover?

Section 16.04.025 ("Owner of animals unknown — Procedure.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 16.04.025?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 16.04.025" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

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Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

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