Washington Franchise Law Guide: Franchise Investment Protection Act (RCW 19.100)
What a prospective franchisee should know about Washington franchise registration, disclosure, and relationship protections before signing.
Last reviewed: May 26, 2026 by the BizLeaseCheck Editorial Team
General information, not legal advice.
Overview
Washington regulates the offer and sale of franchises under the Franchise Investment Protection Act (RCW 19.100), administered by the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI), Securities Division.
Franchisors generally must register before offering a franchise in Washington unless an exemption applies, and the federal 14-day disclosure rule still applies.
What to check
The offering of franchises in Washington is governed by RCW 19.100, the Franchise Investment Protection Act.
The Department of Financial Institutions administers franchise registration filings, exemption filings, and franchise broker filings.
Washington DFI — FranchisesFranchisors must register their franchise offerings before offering in Washington, unless the offering qualifies for an exemption under RCW 19.100.030.
Franchise rules are in WAC 460-80 and WAC 460-82.
Chapter 19.100 RCW — Franchise Investment ProtectionThe Act also addresses prohibited practices and the franchise relationship, including certain unfair or inequitable provisions (for example, RCW 19.100.180).
The specific standards are technical; confirm the current requirement before relying on it.
RCW 19.100.180Key takeaways
- Washington regulates franchises under the Franchise Investment Protection Act (RCW 19.100).
- The Department of Financial Institutions administers registration and exemptions.
- Registration is required before offering unless an exemption (RCW 19.100.030) applies.
- You should receive the FDD at least 14 days before signing (federal rule).
- Washington restricts certain unfair practices — verify the current standard.
Official resources
Legal-review notes
Guide confidence marker: High confidence.
- Confirm current Washington registration and exemption procedures with the DFI Securities Division.
- Verify the current text and application of RCW 19.100.180 before relying on specific termination protections.
Frequently asked questions
Does Washington require franchise registration?
Yes. Under the Franchise Investment Protection Act (RCW 19.100), franchisors generally must register before offering a franchise in Washington, unless an exemption under RCW 19.100.030 applies.
Which agency handles Washington franchise registration?
The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI), Securities Division, administers franchise filings under RCW 19.100 and WAC 460-80 / 460-82.
Does Washington protect franchisees from unfair termination?
The Act addresses prohibited and unfair practices, including certain provisions such as RCW 19.100.180. Confirm the specific standard with a franchise attorney.