A. The appearance of fairness doctrine, as specified in Chapter 42.36 RCW, shall apply to quasi-judicial proceedings and shall result in disqualification when necessary. A member of an administrative body or the official acting as an administrative body shall not participate in any proceeding in which he or she has a prohibited personal interest. In the event of a disqualifying conflict of interest, the hearing shall be conducted by the remaining members of the administrative body or a duly appointed pro tem official.

B. A member of an administrative body or the official acting as an administrative body shall not engage in ex parte communications, directly or indirectly, with any person, or the agent or representative of any person, having an interest in an application before the administrative body or official acting as the administrative body.

C. If a prohibited ex parte communication occurs, it shall be publicly disclosed in accordance with Chapter 42.36 RCW and the member of the administrative body or the official acting as an administrative body shall decide whether to disqualify himself or herself for that application.

D. Any party to a quasi-judicial proceeding may challenge the partiality and appearance of fairness of any member of the administrative body or the official acting as the administrative body during the hearing. A challenge must include the facts relied on by the challenging party, relating to the alleged bias, prejudgment, or personal interest, or other basis by which the party has concluded that the member or official cannot participate in a recommendation in an impartial manner.