Washington § 70.05.070 - Local health officer — Powers and duties.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 70.05.070 — Local health officer — Powers and duties., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 70.05.070. Local health officer — Powers and duties.

The local health officer, acting under the direction of the local board of health or under direction of the administrative officer appointed under RCW 70.05.040 or 70.05.035, if any, shall:
(1) Enforce the public health statutes of the state, rules of the state board of health and the secretary of health, and all local health rules, regulations and ordinances within his or her jurisdiction including imposition of penalties authorized under RCW 70A.125.030 and 70A.105.120, the confidentiality provisions in RCW 70.02.220 and rules adopted to implement those provisions, and filing of actions authorized by RCW 43.70.190;
(2) Take such action as is necessary to maintain health and sanitation supervision over the territory within his or her jurisdiction;
(3) Control and prevent the spread of any dangerous, contagious or infectious diseases that may occur within his or her jurisdiction;
(4) Inform the public as to the causes, nature, and prevention of disease and disability and the preservation, promotion and improvement of health within his or her jurisdiction;
(5) Prevent, control or abate nuisances which are detrimental to the public health;
(6) Attend all conferences called by the secretary of health or his or her authorized representative;
(7) Collect such fees as are established by the state board of health or the local board of health for the issuance or renewal of licenses or permits or such other fees as may be authorized by law or by the rules of the state board of health;
(8) Inspect, as necessary, expansion or modification of existing public water systems, and the construction of new public water systems, to assure that the expansion, modification, or construction conforms to system design and plans;
(9) Take such measures as he or she deems necessary in order to promote the public health, to participate in the establishment of health educational or training activities, and to authorize the attendance of employees of the local health department or individuals engaged in community health programs related to or part of the programs of the local health department.
[ 2020 c 20 s 1066; 2013 c 200 s 26; 2007 c 343 s 10; 1999 c 391 s 5; 1993 c 492 s 239; 1991 c 3 s 309; 1990 c 133 s 10; 1984 c 25 s 7; 1979 c 141 s 80; 1967 ex.s. c 51 s 12.]

Notes

Effective date—2013 c 200: See note following RCW 70.02.010.
Findings—Purpose—1999 c 391: See note following RCW 70.05.180.
Findings—Intent—1993 c 492: See notes following RCW 43.20.050.
Short title—Savings—Reservation of legislative power—Effective dates—1993 c 492: See RCW 43.72.910 through 43.72.915.
Findings—Severability—1990 c 133: See notes following RCW 36.94.140.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 70.05.070

What does Revised Code of Washington § 70.05.070 cover?

Section 70.05.070 ("Local health officer — Powers and duties.") 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 § 70.05.070?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 70.05.070" (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 § 70.05.070 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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