Washington § 64.40.020 - Applicant for permit — Actions for damages from governmental actions.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 64.40.020 — Applicant for permit — Actions for damages from governmental actions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 64.40.020. Applicant for permit — Actions for damages from governmental actions.

(1) Owners of a property interest who have filed an application for a permit have an action for damages to obtain relief from acts of an agency which are arbitrary, capricious, unlawful, or exceed lawful authority, or relief from a failure to act within time limits established by law: PROVIDED, That the action is unlawful or in excess of lawful authority only if the final decision of the agency was made with knowledge of its unlawfulness or that it was in excess of lawful authority, or it should reasonably have been known to have been unlawful or in excess of lawful authority.
(2) The prevailing party in an action brought pursuant to this chapter may be entitled to reasonable costs and attorney's fees.
(3) No cause of action is created for relief from unintentional procedural or ministerial errors of an agency.
(4) Invalidation of any regulation in effect prior to the date an application for a permit is filed with the agency shall not constitute a cause of action under this chapter.
[ 1982 c 232 s 2.]

Notes

Findings—Recommendations—Reports encouraged—2007 c 231: See note following RCW 43.155.070.

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 64.40.020

What does Revised Code of Washington § 64.40.020 cover?

Section 64.40.020 ("Applicant for permit — Actions for damages from governmental actions.") 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 § 64.40.020?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 64.40.020" (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 § 64.40.020 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

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