79.14.500 - Damage to surface owner or lessee.

Damage to surface owner or lessee.

In the case of lands which the state may have sold or leased and reserved the mineral rights therein, if the holder of any option contract or lease is unable to agree with the owner or prior lessee of the lands, the holder shall have a right of action in the superior court of the county in which the land is situated to ascertain and determine the amount of damages which will accrue to such owner or lessee of the land by reason of the entry thereon and prospecting for or mining coal, as the case may be. In the event of any such action, the term of the option contract or lease shall begin thirty days after the entry of the final judgment in such action.

[2003 c 334 § 417; 1927 c 255 § 166; RRS § 7797-166. Prior: 1925 ex.s. c 155 § 4. Formerly RCW 79.01.664, 78.24.070.]

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