Washington § 19.120.040 - Franchise considered personal property — Designated successor in interest.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 19.120.040 — Franchise considered personal property — Designated successor in interest., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 19.120.040. Franchise considered personal property — Designated successor in interest.

Notwithstanding the terms of any motor fuel franchise, the interest of a motor fuel retailer under such an agreement shall be considered personal property and shall devolve on the death of the motor fuel retailer to a designated successor in interest of the retailer, limited to the retailer's spouse, adult child, or adult stepchild or, if no successor in interest is designated, to the retailer's spouse, if any. The designation shall be made, witnessed in writing by at least two persons, and delivered to the motor fuel refiner-supplier during the term of the franchise. The designation may be revised at any time by the motor fuel retailer and shall be substantially in the following form:
"I (motor fuel retailer name) at the . . . . . . service station located at . . . . . ., in the City of . . . . . ., Washington, designate . . . . . . as my successor in interest under RCW 19.120.030 and . . . . . . as my alternate successor if the originally designated successor is unable or unwilling so to act.
I so specify this . . . . day of . . . . . ., (year) . . . ."
The motor fuel refiner-supplier shall assist the designated successor in interest temporarily in the day-to-day operation of the service station to insure continued operation of the service station.
[ 2016 c 202 s 22; 1986 c 320 s 5.]

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 19.120.040

What does Revised Code of Washington § 19.120.040 cover?

Section 19.120.040 ("Franchise considered personal property — Designated successor in interest.") 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 § 19.120.040?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 19.120.040" (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 § 19.120.040 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.