Washington § 36.32.020 - Commissioner districts — Voluntary change to electoral system.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 36.32.020 — Commissioner districts — Voluntary change to electoral system., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 36.32.020. Commissioner districts — Voluntary change to electoral system.

The board of county commissioners of each county shall divide their county into three commissioner districts so that each district shall comprise as nearly as possible one-third of the population of the county: PROVIDED, That the territory comprised in any voting precincts of such districts shall remain compact, and shall not be divided by the lines of said districts.
However, the commissioners of any county composed entirely of islands and with a population of less than thirty-five thousand may divide their county into three commissioner districts without regard to population, except that if any single island is included in more than one district, the districts on such island shall comprise, as nearly as possible, equal populations.
The commissioners of any county may authorize a change to their electoral system pursuant to RCW 29A.92.040. Except where necessary to comply with a court order issued pursuant to RCW 29A.92.110, and except in the case of an intervening census, the lines of the districts shall not be changed more often than once in four years and only when a full board of commissioners is present. Except when authorized under RCW 29A.92.115, the districts shall be designated as districts numbered one, two, and three.
[ 2023 c 56 s 11; 2018 c 113 s 204; 1982 c 226 s 4; 1970 ex.s. c 58 s 1; 1963 c 4 s 36.32.020. Prior: 1893 c 39 s 2; 1890 p 317 ss 1, 2; RRS s 4037.]

Notes

Effective date—2023 c 56: See note following RCW 29A.92.720.
Findings—Intent—Short title—2018 c 113: See RCW 29A.92.005 and 29A.92.900.
Effective date—1982 c 226: See note following RCW 35.21.180.

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

Related Washington Legal Topics

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 36.32.020

What does Revised Code of Washington § 36.32.020 cover?

Section 36.32.020 ("Commissioner districts — Voluntary change to electoral system.") 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 § 36.32.020?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 36.32.020" (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 § 36.32.020 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.