Washington statute
RCW 9A.48.020 — Arson in the first degree
Current through 2026 Regular Session
Part of Chapter 9A.48: Arson, Reckless Burning, And Malicious Mischief, Revised Code of Washington.
Criminal charges under this statute
Full text of RCW 9A.48.020
Statutory text current through the 2026 Regular Session. This publication reproduces the official text of the Revised Code of Washington from the Code Reviser's published files; it is not the official statutes of the State of Washington.
(1) A person is guilty of arson in the first degree if he or she knowingly and maliciously:
(a) Causes a fire or explosion which is manifestly dangerous to any human life, including firefighters; or
(b) Causes a fire or explosion which damages a dwelling; or
(c) Causes a fire or explosion in any building in which there shall be at the time a human being who is not a participant in the crime; or
(d) Causes a fire or explosion on property valued at ten thousand dollars or more with intent to collect insurance proceeds.
(2) Arson in the first degree is a class A felony.
Official sources
Legal terms used in this section
Questions this section answers
Is arson in the first degree a felony or a misdemeanor in Washington?
Arson in the first degree is a Class A Felony in Washington under RCW 9A.48.020.
Which Washington statute covers arson in the first degree?
Arson in the first degree is governed by RCW 9A.48.020 (Arson in the first degree).
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.