Washington § 79.02.320 - Removal of timber — Treble damages.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 79.02.320 — Removal of timber — Treble damages., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 79.02.320. Removal of timber — Treble damages.

Every person who shall cut or remove, or cause to be cut or removed, any timber growing or being upon any public lands of the state, including a Christmas tree as defined in *RCW 76.48.020, or who shall manufacture the same into logs, bolts, shingles, lumber or other articles of use or commerce, unless expressly authorized so to do by a bill of sale from the state, or by a lease or contract from the state under which he or she holds possession of such lands, or by provisions of law under which the bill of sale, lease or contract was issued, shall be liable to the state for treble the value of the timber or other articles cut, removed, or manufactured, to be recovered in a civil action, and shall forfeit to the state all interest in any article into which the timber is manufactured.
[ 2009 c 349 s 3; 1927 c 255 s 199; RRS s 7797-199. Prior: 1897 c 89 s 66; 1895 c 178 s 101. Formerly RCW 79.01.756, 79.40.030.]

Notes

*Reviser's note: RCW 76.48.020 was recodified as RCW 76.48.021 pursuant to 2009 c 245 s 29.
Firewood on state lands: Chapter 79.15 RCW.
Injunction to prevent waste on public land: RCW 64.12.050.
Injury to or removing trees, etc.—Damages: RCW 64.12.030.
Penalty for destroying native flora: RCW 47.40.080.

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 79.02.320

What does Revised Code of Washington § 79.02.320 cover?

Section 79.02.320 ("Removal of timber — Treble damages.") 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 § 79.02.320?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 79.02.320" (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 § 79.02.320 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.