Washington § 77.57.070 - Diversion of water — Screen, bypass required.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 77.57.070 — Diversion of water — Screen, bypass required., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 77.57.070. Diversion of water — Screen, bypass required.

(1) A person shall not divert water from a lake, river, or stream containing game fish unless the water diversion device is equipped at or near its intake with a fish guard or screen to prevent the passage of game fish into the device and, if necessary, with a means of returning game fish from immediately in front of the fish guard or screen to the waters of origin. A person who was, on June 11, 1947, otherwise lawfully diverting water from a lake, river, or stream shall not be deemed guilty of a violation of this section.
(2) Plans for the fish guard, screen, and bypass shall be approved by the director prior to construction. The installation shall be approved by the director prior to the diversion of water.
(3) The director or the director's designee may close a water diversion device operated in violation of this section and keep it closed until it is properly equipped with a fish guard, screen, or bypass.
[ 2005 c 146 s 904; 2001 c 253 s 48; 1998 c 190 s 122; 1980 c 78 s 89; 1955 c 36 s 77.16.220. Prior: 1947 c 275 s 61; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 5992-70. Formerly RCW 77.55.320, 77.16.220.]

Notes

Part headings not law—2005 c 146: See note following RCW 77.55.011.
Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.

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

Related Washington Legal Topics

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 77.57.070

What does Revised Code of Washington § 77.57.070 cover?

Section 77.57.070 ("Diversion of water — Screen, bypass required.") 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 § 77.57.070?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 77.57.070" (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 § 77.57.070 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

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.