Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research
BILL
ANALYSIS

Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee

HB 2706


This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Requiring sellers to notify buyers of land located in close proximity to land traditionally used for hunting.

Sponsors: Representatives Blake, Takko, Eickmeyer, Armstrong, VanDeWege, Sells, Williams, Springer, Fromhold, Hinkle, Hailey, Warnick, Moeller, Morrell and Kenney.

Brief Summary of Bill
  • Allows the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife to develop public outreach methods to provide education regarding the location and tradition of certain lands for public hunting.
    • Requires sellers of real property to provide notice to buyers that the property for sale may lie in close proximity to land that has been used for public hunting.

Hearing Date: 1/30/08

Staff: Colleen Kerr (786-7168).

Background:

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) regulates hunting and fishing in Washington State.

Washington statute requires that sellers of real property provide buyers with notice that the property may lie in close proximity to a farm, and that the operation of a farm involves usual and customary agricultural practices that are protected by the Washington Right to Farm Act.

Summary of Bill:

As deemed appropriate by the Director and as funds allow, the WDFW may partner with volunteer organizations and real estate professionals for the purposes of educating potential real estate sellers and buyers of the location of any land that has traditionally been used for hunting or where it may be permitted.

The sellers of real property are required to provide notice to buyers that the property for sale may lie in close proximity to land that has been used for public hunting, and that hunting is a lawful and accepted activity when conducted pursuant to statutory and other regulations as properly adopted by the WDFW.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.