Washington § 79.120.010 - First-class tidelands and shorelands to be platted — Public waterways and streets.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 79.120.010 — First-class tidelands and shorelands to be platted — Public waterways and streets., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 79.120.010. First-class tidelands and shorelands to be platted — Public waterways and streets.

It is the duty of the department simultaneously with the establishment of harbor lines and the determination of harbor areas in front of any city or town, or as soon as practicable, to survey and plat all first-class tidelands and shorelands not previously platted, and in platting the tidelands and shorelands to lay out streets which shall be dedicated to public use, subject to the control of the cities or towns in which they are situated.
The department shall also establish one or more public waterways not less than fifty nor more than one thousand feet wide, beginning at the outer harbor line and extending inland across the tidelands belonging to the state. These waterways shall include within their boundaries, as nearly as practicable, all navigable streams running through the tidelands, and shall be located at other places as in the judgment of the department may be necessary for the present and future convenience of commerce and navigation. All waterways shall be reserved from sale or lease and remain as public highways for watercraft until vacated as provided for in this chapter.
The department shall appraise the value of platted tidelands and shorelands and enter the appraisals in its records.
[ 2005 c 155 s 401; 1982 1st ex.s. c 21 s 80. Formerly RCW 79.93.010.]

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 79.120.010

What does Revised Code of Washington § 79.120.010 cover?

Section 79.120.010 ("First-class tidelands and shorelands to be platted — Public waterways and streets.") 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 § 79.120.010?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 79.120.010" (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.

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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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