Washington § 78.60.230 - Confidentiality of records — Preservation in an electronic data system.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 78.60.230 — Confidentiality of records — Preservation in an electronic data system., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 78.60.230. Confidentiality of records — Preservation in an electronic data system.

(1) The records of any owner or operator, when filed with the department as provided in this chapter, shall be confidential and shall be open to inspection only to personnel of the department for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this chapter and to those authorized in writing by such owner or operator, until the expiration of a twenty-four month confidential period to begin at the date of commencement of production or of abandonment of the well or core hole. After expiration of the twenty-four month confidential period, the department shall ensure all logs and surveys that may have been run on the well or core hole are preserved in an electronic data system and made available to the public.
(2) Such records shall in no case, except as provided in this chapter, be available as evidence in court proceedings. No officer, employee, or member of the department shall be allowed to give testimony as to the contents of such records, except as provided in this chapter for the review of a decision of the department or in any proceeding initiated for the enforcement of an order of the department, for the enforcement of a lien created by the enforcement of this chapter, or for use as evidence in criminal proceedings arising out of such records or the statements upon which they are based.
[ 2007 c 338 s 6; 1974 ex.s. c 43 s 23. Formerly RCW 79.76.230.]

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 78.60.230

What does Revised Code of Washington § 78.60.230 cover?

Section 78.60.230 ("Confidentiality of records — Preservation in an electronic data system.") 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 § 78.60.230?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 78.60.230" (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 § 78.60.230 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.

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