Washington § 47.38.020 - Limitations on use of rest areas.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 47.38.020 — Limitations on use of rest areas., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 47.38.020. Limitations on use of rest areas.

(1) Except where specifically authorized by the department, it is unlawful for any person or persons to stop, stand, or park any vehicle, including but not limited to trailers, campers, and motorcycles, for more than eight hours within a twenty-four hour period, or for any person or persons to camp or to maintain a camp, tent, or other sleeping accommodation or facility, in any safety rest area within the limits of the right-of-way of interstate highways or other state highways or in other areas of state or interstate highways as designated in RCW 47.12.250. The department may also designate zones within a safety rest area with shorter parking time limits for the purposes of maximum efficiency and safety. Commercial vehicles may park up to an hour beyond federally mandated rest periods.
(2) Except where specifically authorized by the department, it is unlawful for any person or persons to stop, stand, or park any disabled vehicle, including but not limited to trailers, campers, and motorcycles, in any safety rest area for more than forty-eight hours, after which time the vehicle is subject to mandatory impoundment under RCW 46.55.080(1).
(3) The department shall post appropriate signage consistent with RCW 46.55.070(1) at all safety rest areas regarding the parking time limits in this section.
(4) The Washington state patrol shall enforce this section consistent with RCW 46.55.080(1), and to the maximum extent practicable.
[ 2019 c 436 s 1; 1984 c 7 s 205; 1967 ex.s. c 145 s 30.]

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 47.38.020

What does Revised Code of Washington § 47.38.020 cover?

Section 47.38.020 ("Limitations on use of rest areas.") 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 § 47.38.020?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 47.38.020" (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 § 47.38.020 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.