Featured Inquiry (10/26/09)

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Question:

Can park and recreation districts cover more than one county?

Answer:

Yes, parks and recreation districts can be located in more than one county. The options include: (1) a park and recreation service area (see RCW 36.68.400), (2) a joint park and recreation district (see RCW 36.69.420), or (3) a metropolitan park district (see RCW 35.61.010). The joint park and recreation district (RCW 36.69.420 -.460) is similar to the park and recreation district but encompasses territory within more than one county. These can include part of the unincorporated county and part of the city. The formation is either through a petition process or by resolution of the city and county. The district would be a separate governmental entity.

For more information on park and recreation districts, see MRSC's Web page on Comparison of Recreation Districts: Park & Recreation District, Park & Recreation Service Area, and Metropolitan Park District.