Washington Administrative Code Title 446 - State Patrol (See also Titles 204, 212 and 448)
Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Title 446 – State Patrol
(See also Titles 204, 212, and 448)
Overview:
WAC Title 446 contains the administrative rules and regulations for the Washington State Patrol (WSP), which is responsible for law enforcement, traffic safety, criminal investigations, fire marshal services, and public safety communications across Washington State.
This title includes detailed procedures for motor vehicle regulations, criminal justice systems access, public records, forensic services, ignition interlock device certification, and more.
Key Areas Covered in Title 446:
Traffic and Vehicle Regulations:
Rules for vehicle inspections, commercial vehicle enforcement, and emergency vehicle equipment.
Standards for ignition interlock devices (WAC 446-20, WAC 446-70).
Procedures for towing operators and impoundments.
Criminal History and Background Checks:
Regulations for accessing criminal records and non-criminal justice background checks (WAC 446-20).
Fingerprint-based background check rules.
Firearms and Concealed Pistol Licenses:
Administration of concealed pistol licenses (CPLs) and firearm-related records (WAC 446-85).
Procedures for law enforcement certification and qualifications.
Communications and Dispatch:
Rules for use and operation of State Patrol’s communication systems, including 911 systems and radio networks (WAC 446-40, 446-70).
Forensic Laboratory Services:
Standards for evidence submission, DNA testing, and toxicology reports (WAC 446-75).
State Fire Marshal:
Oversight of fireworks licensing, fire safety inspections, and fire investigation training (intersects with WAC Title 212).
Related Titles to Also See:
Title 204 – Licensing, Department of – Vehicle Equipment
Regulates lighting, brakes, mirrors, and other required vehicle equipment components (enforced by WSP).
Title 212 – State Fire Marshal, Office of the
Contains detailed fire code rules, including building safety, fireworks regulation, and fire prevention.
Title 448 – State Patrol, Forensic Laboratory Services Bureau
Focuses specifically on forensic services and testing methodologies used in criminal investigations.
Example Chapters in WAC Title 446:
| Chapter | Title |
|---|---|
| WAC 446-20 | Criminal History Records |
| WAC 446-30 | Emergency Vehicle Equipment |
| WAC 446-40 | Communications and Frequency Use |
| WAC 446-65 | Towing and Impoundment |
| WAC 446-85 | Concealed Pistol License Regulations |
RELATED Blog
0 comments