Washington § 16.54.020 - Disposition of abandoned animal by person having custody.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 16.54.020 — Disposition of abandoned animal by person having custody., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 16.54.020. Disposition of abandoned animal by person having custody.

Any person having in his or her care, custody, or control any abandoned animal as defined in RCW 16.54.010, may deliver such animal to any animal care and control agency as defined in RCW 16.52.011 or to an animal rescue group as defined in RCW 82.04.040 having the facilities and resources necessary for the care of such animals. If such an animal care and control agency or animal rescue group cannot reasonably be identified to receive the animal, the person with whom the animal was abandoned may notify the sheriff of the county wherein the abandonment occurred.
[ 2020 c 158 s 8; 2011 c 336 s 425; 1955 c 190 s 2.]

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

Related Washington Legal Topics

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 16.54.020

What does Revised Code of Washington § 16.54.020 cover?

Section 16.54.020 ("Disposition of abandoned animal by person having custody.") 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 § 16.54.020?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 16.54.020" (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.

How does Washington § 16.54.020 apply to my situation?

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

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.