WASHINGTON STATUTES AND CODES

64.44.040 - Orders declaring property unfit and prohibiting use -- City, county action -- Entrance upon property prohibited.

Orders declaring property unfit and prohibiting use — City, county action — Entrance upon property prohibited.

(1) Upon issuance of an order declaring property unfit and prohibiting its use, the city or county in which the contaminated property is located may take action to prohibit use, occupancy, or removal of such property; condemn, decontaminate, or demolish the property; or require that the property be vacated or the contents removed from the property. The city or county may use an authorized contractor if property is demolished, decontaminated, or removed under this section. The city, county, or contractor shall comply with all orders of the health officer during these processes. No city or county may condemn, decontaminate, or demolish property pursuant to this section until all procedures granting the right of notice and the opportunity to appeal in RCW 64.44.030 have been exhausted, but may prohibit use, occupancy, or removal of contaminated property pending appeal of the order.

     (2)(a) It is unlawful for any person to enter upon any property, or to remove any property, that has been found unfit for use by a local health officer pursuant to RCW 64.44.030.

     (b) This subsection does not apply to: (i) Health officials, law enforcement officials, or other government agents performing their official duties; (ii) authorized contractors or owners performing decontamination pursuant to authorization by the local health officer; and (iii) any person acting with permission of a local health officer, or of a superior court or hearing examiner following an appeal of a decision of the local health officer.

     (c) Any person who violates this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor.

     (3) No provision of this section may be construed to limit the ability of the local health officer to permit occupants or owners of the property at issue to remove uncontaminated personal property from the premises.

[2006 c 339 § 204; 1999 c 292 § 5; 1990 c 213 § 5.]

Notes: Intent -- Part headings not law--2006 c 339: See notes following RCW 70.96A.325.

Finding -- Intent -- 1999 c 292: See note following RCW 64.44.010.