Agency rule making

State agencies adopt rules to carry out state and federal laws. Learn about the rule-making process and current rule-making activity.

Rule-making process

WSDOT and the Washington State Transportation Commission (WSTC) file all proposed, emergency, amended, new, and repealed rules with the Office of the Code Reviser. The Office of the Code Reviser publishes them in the Washington State Register (WSR). Adopted rules become part of the Washington Administrative Code (WAC).

WSDOT and WSTC are committed to developing and adopting rules that are necessary, fair, understandable, and consistent. WSDOT's Business Support Services Division oversees and provides information about rules administered by WSDOT and WSTC. The Business Support Services Division is the official WSDOT and WSTC liaison with the Office of the Code Reviser and the Joint Administrative Rules Review Committee (JARRC).

The Administrative Procedure Act (APA) is the state law that outlines the standards that WSDOT and WSTC must follow to adopt a rule. The Regulatory Fairness Act requires WSDOT and WSTC to analyze the impact of their rules on small businesses.

If you would like to receive notifications about WSDOT and WSTC Washington State Register filings, please email the WSDOT WAC Rules Coordinator.

WSDOT proposed rules, public hearings, and filings

Washington State Transportation Commission (WSTC) proposed rules, public hearings, and filings

  • Expedited rule making for WAC 468-270-073 (titled “What are the toll rates on the SR 99 Tunnel?”)
    The expedited rule-making process does not require a public hearing. You may send comments and any supporting data in writing (including electronically). WSTC must receive them between April 2, 2025, at 12:00 a.m. and May 19, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. You must send them to:
    Carl See
    Washington State Transportation Commission
    P.O. Box 47308
    Olympia, WA 98504-7308
    Phone: 360-705-7070
    Fax: 360-705-6802
  • You can access all WSTC filings in the Washington State Register.

Slow down on ice and snow.

It's easier to skid or lose control traveling at higher speeds. Give yourself more time to stop.

Carry chains, practice installing them.

Winter conditions could mean chains are required on your route. Practice putting them on your vehicle ahead of time.

Pack your winter car kit.

Carry extra supplies like warm clothing, ice scraper and brush, jumper cables and other emergency items.