Noxious Weed List and Laws

Does the law require weed control?

Washington State’s weed law (RCW 17.10) mandates the control of many weed species. “Control” is defined in WAC 16-750 as the prevention of all seed production. Each year, the list of noxious weeds is updated. The complete weed list (found in WAC 16-750) encompasses three different categories of weeds and can be found at this link.

Who is responsible for weed control?

RCW 17.10 holds landowners, including counties and state land agencies, responsible for controlling weeds on their property. Federally owned lands are subject to the Federal Noxious Weed Act (Public Law 93-629).

Who administers the weed law?

RCW 17.10 also establishes a program for administering the weed law. Education, coordination, and enforcement activities are carried out by three groups: The Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board, County Noxious Weed Control Boards and The Washington State Department of Agriculture.