Washington § 69.50.509 - Search and seizure of controlled substances.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 69.50.509 — Search and seizure of controlled substances., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 69.50.509. Search and seizure of controlled substances.

If, upon the sworn complaint of any person, it shall be made to appear to any judge of the superior court, district court, or municipal court that there is probable cause to believe that any controlled substance is being used, manufactured, sold, bartered, exchanged, administered, dispensed, delivered, distributed, produced, knowingly possessed, given away, furnished or otherwise disposed of or kept in violation of the provisions of this chapter, such judge shall, with or without the approval of the prosecuting attorney, issue a warrant directed to any law enforcement officer of the state, commanding him or her to search the premises designated and described in such complaint and warrant, and to seize all controlled substances there found, together with the vessels in which they are contained, and all implements, furniture and fixtures used or kept for the illegal manufacture, sale, barter, exchange, administering, dispensing, delivering, distributing, producing, possessing, giving away, furnishing or otherwise disposing of such controlled substances, and to safely keep the same, and to make a return of said warrant within three days, showing all acts and things done thereunder, with a particular statement of all articles seized and the name of the person or persons in whose possession the same were found, if any, and if no person be found in the possession of said articles, the returns shall so state. The provisions of RCW 10.31.030 as now or hereafter amended shall apply to actions taken pursuant to this chapter.
[ 2023 sp.s. c 1 s 5; 1987 c 202 s 228; 1971 ex.s. c 308 s 69.50.509.]

Notes

Effective date—2023 sp.s. c 1 ss 1-5, 7-11, and 41: See note following RCW 69.50.4011.
Intent—1987 c 202: See note following RCW 2.04.190.

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 69.50.509

What does Revised Code of Washington § 69.50.509 cover?

Section 69.50.509 ("Search and seizure of controlled substances.") 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 § 69.50.509?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 69.50.509" (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 § 69.50.509 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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