(1) It is unlawful for any person, group, corporation, association, or government entity to import into, transport, transfer, sell, or possess within the state of Washington live fish and/or the viable sexual products of fish without first obtaining a permit to do so from the director. The only exceptions to the permit requirement are for aquarium fish, game fish, indigenous marine baitfish, indigenous hagfish species and mosquito fish (genus Gambusia). The exception for mosquito fish applies only when used by agencies authorized by chapter 17.28 RCW. The permit must accompany the fish and/or sexual products at all times within the state of Washington and must be presented to department employees on demand.

(2) For any permit issued under subsection (1) of this section, the director may impose conditions as necessary to ensure the protection of food fish populations from infectious, contagious, or communicable diseases and pests.

(3) It is unlawful to violate the terms and conditions imposed on any permit issued under subsection (1) of this section. In addition to penalties provided by law, violation of the permit terms and conditions may result in the suspension and/or revocation of the permit.

(4) A violation of this section is punishable under RCW 77.15.253, 77.15.290, or 77.15.750, depending on the species, value of the species, and the circumstances underlying the violation.