Washington § 70A.525.040 - Enforcement of chapter — Civil penalties.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 70A.525.040 — Enforcement of chapter — Civil penalties., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 70A.525.040. Enforcement of chapter — Civil penalties.

(1) Cities and counties have concurrent and exclusive authority to enforce this chapter and to collect civil penalties for a violation of this chapter, subject to the conditions in this section. An enforcing government entity may impose a civil penalty in the amount of up to two thousand dollars for the first violation of this chapter, up to five thousand dollars for the second violation of this chapter, and up to ten thousand dollars for the third and any subsequent violation of this chapter. If a covered entity has paid a prior penalty for the same violation to a different government entity with enforcement authority under this subsection, the penalty imposed by a government entity is reduced by the amount of the payment.
(2) Any civil penalties collected pursuant to this section must be paid to the enforcing governmental entity that brought the action.
(3) The remedies provided by this section are not exclusive and are in addition to the remedies that may be available pursuant to chapter 19.86 RCW or other consumer protection laws, if applicable.
(4) In addition to penalties recovered under this section, the enforcing government entity may recover reasonable enforcement costs and attorneys' fees from the liable covered entity.
[ 2020 c 121 s 5.]

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 70A.525.040

What does Revised Code of Washington § 70A.525.040 cover?

Section 70A.525.040 ("Enforcement of chapter — Civil penalties.") 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 § 70A.525.040?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 70A.525.040" (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 § 70A.525.040 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.