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Washington Posting Laws: How to Post Land
Washington's approach is short and broad. Some land is treated as open to entry unless the owner gives notice, and posting conspicuously is one way to give it. The statute sets no standard for the sign itself. This guide explains what that means for rural owners and where hunters fit.
What the law asks for on signs
The law is RCW 9A.52.010(2). It says unfenced, unimproved, unused land is open to entry unless notice is personally communicated or posted conspicuously. There is no Washington posting standard for size, spacing or wording in the RCW, and no owner-name rule, letter height or paint colour.
Spacing and placement
With no number to follow, the word that matters is conspicuously. Put signs at the roadside, on gates, at the head of every trail and along any stretch where a stranger could wander in unaware. If a person can walk onto your land without passing a sign, add another.
Hunting land and permission
The statute text we read says a search of RCW 77.15 for posted, private or trespass found no separate hunting-posting rule, so hunting on private land is handled through criminal trespass. WDFW private-lands programs use their own signs. If you join one, follow that program's sign rules.
Practical tips
Wet coastal weather rots wood and fades printed signs, so choose durable material and inspect after each storm season. Brush grows fast, and a sign hidden by branches is not conspicuous. Trim around each one, and photograph your posting with a date.
Questions about posting land in Washington
Does Washington set a size or spacing rule for signs?
No. The statute text we read says no Washington posting standard for size, spacing or wording exists in the RCW. The law instead turns on notice being personally communicated or posted conspicuously, so place signs where people will plainly see them.
When is Washington land open to entry?
According to the statute, unfenced, unimproved, unused land is open to entry unless notice is personally communicated or posted conspicuously. Read RCW 9A.52.010(2) at the link on this page for the exact wording.
Does Washington have a separate hunting posting law?
The statute found no separate hunting-posting rule in RCW 77.15, and says hunting on private land is handled through criminal trespass. WDFW private-lands programs use their own signs. Check the current statutes before relying on this.
This guide explains the law in plain words; it is not legal advice. We read the statute text on 2026-10-24. Laws change: check the current text here or ask your county or state wildlife agency.