Washington § 47.12.040 - Acquisition of property from a political subdivision.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 47.12.040 — Acquisition of property from a political subdivision., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 47.12.040. Acquisition of property from a political subdivision.

Whenever it is necessary to secure any lands for primary or secondary state highway right-of-way or other state highway purposes, the title to which is in any county of the state or in any political or municipal subdivision of the state, which land is not at the time being used as a public highway, the county legislative authority or the board of directors or governing body of any such political or municipal subdivision are authorized to directly lease, sell, or convey by gift the land or any interest therein to the state of Washington, without requiring competitive bids or notice to the public, and at such price as the legislative authority, directors, or governing body may deem for the best interests of the county or for the best interests of the political or municipal subdivision of the state. The county legislative authority or the directors or governing body of any political or municipal subdivision are empowered to execute a deed or other proper instrument to the land, passing title to the state of Washington, and the instrument need not require consideration other than the benefit which may be derived by the grantor on account of the use thereof. Whenever any state highway is established by legislative enactment and the state highway is upon the former route of a county road, the county legislative authority shall cause the title to the existing right-of-way or so much thereof as the department requires to be transferred to the state of Washington by proper instrument.
[ 1984 c 7 s 118; 1961 c 13 s 47.12.040. Prior: 1943 c 266 s 1; 1937 c 53 s 26; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 6400-26.]

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 47.12.040

What does Revised Code of Washington § 47.12.040 cover?

Section 47.12.040 ("Acquisition of property from a political subdivision.") 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 § 47.12.040?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 47.12.040" (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 § 47.12.040 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.