Washington § 47.04.040 - Title to rights-of-way vested in state.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 47.04.040 — Title to rights-of-way vested in state., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 47.04.040. Title to rights-of-way vested in state.

Upon and after April 1, 1937, all rights-of-way of any primary state highways, together with all appurtenances thereto, the right or interest in or to which was, or is, in any county, road district, township, local improvement district, or other highway or road district or political subdivision of the state of Washington shall be and the same is hereby transferred to and vested in the state of Washington for use in conjunction with such primary state highways under the department of transportation.
All public highways in the state of Washington which have been designated to be primary state highways or secondary state highways or classified as primary roads and which have been constructed and improved and maintained for a period of seven years prior to April 1, 1937, at the expense of the state shall operate to vest in the state of Washington all right, title, and interest to the right-of-ways [rights-of-way] thereof, including the roadway and ditches and existing drainage facilities, together with all appurtenances thereto and no informalities in the records of title to such public highways shall be construed to invalidate or vacate such public highways or to divest the state of Washington of any right, title and interest in the right-of-way thereof.
[ 1979 ex.s. c 30 s 7; 1961 c 13 s 47.04.040. Prior: 1937 c 53 s 29; RRS s 6400-29.]

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 47.04.040

What does Revised Code of Washington § 47.04.040 cover?

Section 47.04.040 ("Title to rights-of-way vested in state.") 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 § 47.04.040?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 47.04.040" (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 § 47.04.040 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.