(1) When there is probable cause to believe that there is property within this state not otherwise exempt from process or execution in the possession or control of any employer against whom a tax warrant issued under RCW 51.48.140 has been filed which remains unsatisfied, or an assessment issued pursuant to RCW 51.48.170, any judge of the superior court or district court in the county in which such property is located may, upon the request of the sheriff or agent of the department authorized to collect taxes, issue a warrant directed to the officers commanding the search for and seizure of the property described in the request for warrant.

(2) The procedure for the issuance, and execution and return of the warrant authorized by this section and for return of any property seized shall be the criminal rules of the superior court and the district court.

(3) The sheriff or agent of the department shall levy execution upon property seized under this section as provided in RCW 51.48.220 and 51.48.230.

(4) This section does not require the application for or issuance of any warrant not otherwise required by law.