Washington § 79A.60.440 - Vessels carrying passengers for hire on whitewater rivers — Operation of vessel — Exemptions.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 79A.60.440 — Vessels carrying passengers for hire on whitewater rivers — Operation of vessel — Exemptions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 79A.60.440. Vessels carrying passengers for hire on whitewater rivers — Operation of vessel — Exemptions.

(1) No person may operate any vessel carrying passengers for hire on whitewater rivers in a manner that interferes with other vessels or with the free and proper navigation of the rivers of this state.
(2) Every operator of a vessel carrying passengers for hire on whitewater rivers shall at all times operate the vessel in a careful and prudent manner and at such a speed as to not endanger the life, limb, or property of any person.
(3) No vessel carrying passengers for hire on whitewater rivers may be loaded with passengers or cargo beyond its safe carrying capacity taking into consideration the type and construction of the vessel and other existing operating conditions. In the case of inflatable vessels, safe carrying capacity in whitewater shall be considered as less than the United States coast guard capacity rating for each vessel. This subsection shall not apply in cases of an unexpected emergency on the river.
(4) Individuals licensed under chapter 77.32 RCW and acting as fishing guides are exempt from RCW 79A.60.420 and 79A.60.460 through 79A.60.480.
[ 2000 c 11 s 107; 1993 c 244 s 28; 1986 c 217 s 3. Formerly RCW 88.12.250 and 91.14.020.]

Notes

Intent—1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.

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

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What does Revised Code of Washington § 79A.60.440 cover?

Section 79A.60.440 ("Vessels carrying passengers for hire on whitewater rivers — Operation of vessel — Exemptions.") 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.

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