Charter of the City of Tacoma
Preamble
"We, the people of the City of Tacoma, a city of the first class of the State of Washington, pursuant to the authority granted by the Constitution and Laws of the State of Washington, and in order to avail ourselves of all powers granted such cities and to obtain the benefits of local self-government, do hereby enact this charter."
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Charter
Prepared by a board of fifteen freeholders elected March 11, 1952.
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Effective June 1, 1953 |
Submitted to and adopted by the qualified electors at a special election
held November 4, 1952. |
Amended November 4, 1958
Amended September 15, 1970
Amended September 18, 1973
Amended November 6, 1979
Amended September 16, 1980
Amended November 8, 1983
Amended November 3, 1992
Amended November 2, 2004 |
| Article I |
Incorporation and General Powers |
Article VI |
City Officers and Personnel |
| Article II |
The Legislative Branch |
Article VII |
General Finance |
| Article III |
The Administrative Branch |
Article VIII |
Franchises |
| Article IV |
Public Utilities |
Article IX |
Miscellaneous Provisions |
| Article V |
Nominations and Elections |
Article X |
Succession in Government |
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Freeholder's Certificate |
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Explanatory Notes
The Charter of the City of Tacoma has, in some instances, been superseded by the adoption of state laws subsequent to the effective date of the Charter. In this compilation, references are made to those sections of state law which supersede this Charter, setting forth the Revised Code of Washington citation and a brief statement of the effect of the law.
Footnote references to the Charter as contained herein, such as, "see Chapter 1.02," refer to the Official Code of the City of Tacoma duly adopted pursuant to the laws of the State of Washington and ordinances of the City of Tacoma.
Municipal Code