(1) Every person who, without authorization, uses or occupies public lands, removes any valuable material as defined in RCW 79.02.010 from public lands, or causes waste or damage to public lands, or injures publicly owned personal property or publicly owned improvements to real property on public lands, is liable to the state for treble the amount of the damages. However, liability shall be for single damages if the department determines, or the person proves upon trial, that the person, at time of the unauthorized act or acts, did not know, or have reason to know, that he or she lacked authorization. Damages recoverable under this section include, but are not limited to, the market value of the use, occupancy, or things removed, had the use, occupancy, or removal been authorized; and any damages caused by injury to the land, publicly owned personal property or publicly owned improvement, including the costs of restoration. In addition, the person is liable for reimbursing the state for its reasonable costs, including but not limited to, its administrative costs, survey costs to the extent they are not included in damages awarded for restoration costs, and its reasonable attorneys' fees and other legal costs.

     (2) This section does not apply in any case where liability for damages is provided under RCW 64.12.030, 4.24.630, 79.02.320, or 79.02.340.

     (3) The department is authorized and directed to investigate all trespasses and wastes upon, and damages to, public lands of the state, and to cause prosecutions for, and/or actions for the recovery of the same to be commenced as is provided by law.

[2004 c 199 § 207; 2003 c 334 § 435; 1994 c 280 § 2; 1993 c 266 § 1; 1927 c 255 § 200; RRS § 7797-200. Prior: 1897 c 89 § 64; 1895 c 178 § 99. Formerly RCW 79.01.760, 79.40.040.]

NOTES:

     Part headings not law -- 2004 c 199: See note following RCW 79.02.010.

     Intent -- 2003 c 334: See note following RCW 79.02.010.

Waste and trespass: Chapter 64.12 RCW.