Washington § 35.23.535 - Utilities — Maintenance and operation — Rates.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 35.23.535 — Utilities — Maintenance and operation — Rates., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 35.23.535. Utilities — Maintenance and operation — Rates.

No taxes shall be imposed for maintenance and operating charges of city owned water, light, power, or heating works or systems.
Rates shall be fixed by ordinance for supplying water, light, power, or heat for commercial, domestic, or irrigation purposes sufficient to pay for all operating and maintenance charges. If the rates in force produce a greater amount than is necessary to meet operating and maintenance charges, the rates may be reduced or the excess income may be transferred to the city's current expense fund.
Complete separate accounts for municipal utilities must be kept under the system and on forms prescribed by the state auditor.
The term "maintenance and operating charges," as used in this section includes all necessary repairs, replacement, interest on any debts incurred in acquiring, constructing, repairing and operating plants and departments and all depreciation charges. This term shall also include an annual charge equal to four percent on the cost of the plant or system, as determined by the state auditor to be paid into the current expense fund, except that where utility bonds have been or may hereafter be issued and are unpaid no payment shall be required into the current expense fund until such bonds are paid.
[ 1995 c 301 s 37; 1965 c 7 s 35.24.430. Prior: 1917 c 124 s 1, part; 1915 c 184 s 16, part; RRS s 9129, part. Formerly RCW 35.24.430.]

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 35.23.535

What does Revised Code of Washington § 35.23.535 cover?

Section 35.23.535 ("Utilities — Maintenance and operation — Rates.") 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 § 35.23.535?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 35.23.535" (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 § 35.23.535 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

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