The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages nearly 3 million acres of uplands and over 2 million acres of aquatic lands.  DNR must manage those lands using a multiple use concept where it is in the best interests of the state and the general welfare of the citizens, and is consistent with the management objectives of the land.  Multiple use means the management of state-owned lands under the jurisdiction of DNR to provide for several uses simultaneously.  For example, many state trust lands managed by DNR are also used for hunting, fishing, hiking, camping, motorized vehicle riding, recreational target shooting, and other outdoor recreation activities.

Target shooting on DNR managed lands is currently allowed in recreation facilities specifically designed for target shooting, and on most DNR-managed lands in areas with an unobstructed, earth backstop that can stop all projectiles safely.  No shooting is permitted within 500 feet of a recreation site, residence, business, or structure.  Shooting is also not permitted across, along, or down roads or trails.  Target shooters must dispose of spent items and remove all shell casings, targets, and ammunition packaging.

Under Washington tort law, landowners generally owe persons invited to enter their land a duty to use ordinary care to keep that land in a reasonably safe condition.  This includes an affirmative duty to inspect the premises and discover dangerous conditions.  The Legislature modified this general rule through what is known as the Recreational Use Immunity Statute (statute).  The statute generally provides protection from tort liability for landowners who allow public use of their lands and do not charge a fee.  However, in a few circumstances landowners may charge a fee and still receive protection under the statute.  These situations include a fee up to $25 for cutting, gathering, and removing firewood; some state-issued recreational licenses and permits; and a daily charge not to exceed $20 for access to certain public off-road vehicle facilities.

The liability protection offered under the statute is not absolute.  The statute does not protect landowners from certain dangerous conditions for which warning signs have not been conspicuously posted.  Landowners who intentionally injure recreational users receive no protection.

Recreational target shooting in designated areas is added to the list of activities where public and private landowners shall not be liable for unintentional injuries.  Amounts DNR receives from lease agreements to operate recreational target shooting facilities are excluded from the definition of fees for recreational immunity.