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Building Permits

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1. What work requires a building permit?

Any building, plumbing, mechanical, or electrical works requires a permit. This also includes interior remodeling, improvements, conversions, demolition, and change of occupancy. See the link for more information. When Is a Permit Required?

2. What are the design standards and codes for Moses Lake?

Wind loads: 85 MPH. Exposure C (fastest mile 70 MPH)
Snow loads: Roof snow load 20 psf. Ground snow load 30psf
Frost depth: 18" (potable water lines must be buried at least 30" below grade)
Seismic zone: "C" for IRC-regulated buildings, "D" for almost all IBC-regulated buildings
Adopted code: 2009 International Building, Residential, Mechanical, Fuel Gas, and Fire Code. 2009 Washington State Energy Code. 2009 Uniform Plumbing Code.

3. When does a plan require an architect's or engineer's stamp?

A design professional's stamp is required for:
1. All buildings more than 4000 square feet, including addition to a building than increases the total floor area above 4000 square feet. Exception: a residential structure of 4 or less dwelling units can exceed the 4000 square foot limit.
2. Building of any size that cannot be reviewed by prescriptive code requirements, such as pole buildings.

4. What do I need on my plans when I submit for a building permit?

See the checklists at the bottom of the page at this link

5. Do I need a permit for a shed?

A residential storage shed, but not including a garage or carport, less than 200 square feet, does not require a building permit. See the Shed Page.

6. Do I need a permit for a fence or wall?

All fences and walls require a free fence permit. Fences over 6' in height and walls over 2' in height or walls supporting any type of slope or building also require a building permit and fee. Contact the Building Division at 766-3756 with questions about fences and walls. Fence Permit Application

7. How do I pay for a building permit?

Building permit fees can be paid in cash, credit card, or a check made out to "City of Moses Lake".

Staff will calculate the building permit fee for you, but if you want a general idea of the cost, see the Building Permit Fee Guide.

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Business License

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1. Where do I apply for a business license?

Go to 321 S. Balsam St. and pick up an application for a new business license from the Building and Planning Department counter or on this site. Business License Application

2. How much is a business license?

A license is $80 for a full year. If you are applying after March it will be $60, after June it will be $40, and after September it will be $20. Then the automatic renewal will be $80 per year.

3. What is a UBI number?

A UBI number is a Washington State Unified Business Identifier. A UBI number is a 9-digit number that registers you with several state agencies and allows you to do business in Washington State. A UBI number is sometimes called a tax registration number, a business registration number, or a business license number. Apply for a UBI number at the Department of Revenue website, using their business license application form. Department of Revenue Business Licensing Service

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Engineering

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1. How do I hook up to City water or sewer services?

Property owners seeking to connect to City utilities like water or sanitary sewer should come in to the Engineering Counter, located in the old City Hall building at 321 S. Balsam, and fill out a Utility Service Request form for their address. City staff will determine where City utilities are located relative to your property, inform you of all development or reimbursement charges and fees associated with connecting, and walk you through the connection process. Connection fees are based on pipe and meter sizes requested, and other factors unique to your property. For additional information, see City utility connection

2. I got a red light camera ticket. How long is a yellow light cycle?

The timing of the yellow light cycle on a signal is based on site conditions and speed limits. Typically this duration is 3 to 4.5 seconds. This interval is consistent with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), the national standard published by the Federal Highway Administration that defines the standards for traffic control devices on all public streets and roads. This duration gives all motorists adequate warning for a red light so that their trip through the intersection is completed while it is safe to do so.

3. Where are City utilities located in relation to my property?

The short answer is this: come in to the Engineering Counter in the old City Hall building, 321 S. Balsam, and meet with one of our engineers. We would be happy to pull up our utility map and show you what City utility services are available near your property.

For utility locates prior to a digging project, call the One-Call Utility Notification Center at 1-800-424-5555, or enter your service request online. One call utility location (Call Before You Dig)

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Fire Department

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1. Where is the Moses Lake Fire Department located?

The main station is located at 701 E. Third Ave. The Fire Chief’s Office and Fire Marshal’s Office are located at this station. The public meeting room is also located at this station. The public entrance is located on the Third Avenue side of the building. Stations

2. Who do I call to schedule a fire inspection?

Call the department administrative assistant at (509) 765-2204 to schedule inspections.

3. How do I get a copy of a fire report?

Fire incident reports are generally made available on the same day as the incident to the owner or resident of the property the fire incident was located at. These reports are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm at the main station, 701 E. Third Ave.

Fire investigation reports are generally available within 10 days of the incident. Fire investigation reports are available by providing a written request to:
Fire Marshal’s Office
701 E. Third Ave. 
Moses Lake, WA 98837

The request should indicate the property address, the date of the loss, and the requesting party’s relationship to the property.

4. How do I become a Volunteer Firefighter or EMT?

The City of Moses Lake does not currently operate a volunteer fire or EMS system.

5. Does the Fire Department work on fire extinguishers?

No. Several local companies offer this service. Look for them in the yellow pages under fire extinguishers or fire equipment.

6. Where can I get my blood pressure checked?

You can have your blood pressure checked free of charge at either Moses Lake Fire Department station between the hours of 8:00 am and 5:00 pm, 7 days a week. Please note that the stations may not always be staffed if we are out on calls.

7. Are tours available to visit the fire station?

Tours are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 am through 5:00 pm at our headquarters station located at 701 E. 3rd Avenue. An appointment for the tour is necessary. Please contact the department administrative assistant at (509) 765-2204 to schedule.

8. What are the rules for outdoor burning?

Outdoor burning of household yard waste, such as leaves, brush, and yard trimmings, is banned by state law within the city limits and the urban growth area. Contact the Department of Ecology at 509-329-3400 or see their website for more information. Department of Ecology Outdoor Burning Page

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Main

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1. How do I contact a city/county department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

3. Is hunting allowed within City limits?

No, Moses Lake Municipal Code 9.12 prohibits hunting within the city. This includes the portions of the lake that are within City limits. See the zoning map for City boundaries. Zoning Map

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Municipal Court

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1. I received a Photo Infraction. How do I take care of this?

The City of Moses Lake and the Moses Lake Police Dept. cannot accept payments for these photo infractions. Please call 1-877-847-2338, online www.photonotice.com, or mail your payment to:

Moses Lake Intersection Safety
Enhancement Program Payment Center
PO Box 76886
Cleveland, OH 44101-6500

If the vehicle was not in your Care, Custody, or Control, please follow the instructions on the back of the infraction and mail in your response.

If you would like to contest the infraction, please send in the coupon as instructed and you will be sent a Notice of Hearing for your scheduled hearing date.

If you have any other questions or concerns, please contact Teri Oliver, Moses Lake Police Dept. at (509) 764-3888.

2. What happens if I don’t pay my infraction?

Failure to respond within the allotted time results in an order that the infraction was committed and the account may be assigned to a collection agency.

3. Can I pay my infraction over the phone?

Yes. Please call the Municipal Court clerk at (509) 764-3701 to pay your non-traffic infraction. Redflex tickets (photo infraction), please call at 1 (877) 847-2338.

4. When is my court date?

Moses Lake Municipal Court is held every third Tuesday of each month at 2:00 pm in the District Court Building located at 1525 E. Wheeler Rd. Please call the Municipal Court clerk to verify your placement on the docket.

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Municipal Services

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1. How do I request a street sign / crosswalk?

You may send a letter of request to the Municipal Services Department at P.O. Box 1579, Moses Lake, WA 98837 detailing what location and where you feel a new street sign is indicated. Each location is evaluated on an individual basis and requires a traffic study by staff to determine the needs of the neighborhood or intersection.

The installation of traffic signs or other control devices are determined by the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), which sets out conditions under which a particular location would need a traffic control device such as a sign. The Municipal Services Director will respond to you with the final determination on whether your location is a candidate for the sign, signal or marking requested.

2. I have speeding motorists in my neighborhood. What do I do?

Speeding motorists are a problem in many neighborhoods throughout the state. The State Department of Transportation has studied these types of problems and found that reducing the speed limit, installing stop signs, installing speed bumps, or posting 'Children at Play' signs are not effective and may instill a false sense of security for pedestrians and children.

This brochure also explains a number of ways that parents can improve the safety of their children. These include working in neighborhood groups to report speeding motorists to the Police Department, driving the 25-mph speed limit themselves, and educating their children about street safety. Anyone who witnesses a traffic violation is encouraged to call the Multi-Agency Communication Center (MACC) to report the type of violation and the license plate number of the vehicle. This call can be made 24 hours a day, and the complainant can remain anonymous.

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Museum & Art Center

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1. How do I register for a museum program?

You can register in person at the Moses Lake Museum & Art Center, 401 S. Balsam St., by phone at (509) 764-3830, or mail in a registration form. At this time, online registration is not available.

2. How do I show my artwork in the museum's gallery?

Please contact the MAC at 764-3830 for the gallery application. Or email Museum Manager Freya Hart at fhart@cityofml.com to have a copy emailed to you. Gallery shows are scheduled a year in advance and run for approximately 6-8 weeks.

3. How do I donate artifacts or documents to the museum?

Please contact Curator Ann Golden for more information about donating (509) 764-3825.

4. Can the museum offer appraisal of objects?

The Moses Lake Museum & Art Center cannot appraise, evaluate or provide guidance regarding the sale of artifacts, specimens, photographs, printed works or original documents.

Please refer to the websites of the following organizations. While they do not provide appraisals, they do maintain directories of members and their appraisal specialties:

Appraisers Association of America

American Society of Appraisers

International Society of Appraisers

Antiquarian Booksellers’ Association of America

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Parks & Recreation

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1. How do I register for a program?

You can register in person at the Parks and Recreation office, 411 S. Balsam St. or mail in a registration form. At this time, online registration is not available. Print registration form

2. How do I find out about upcoming recreational activities?

You can find out about upcoming programs by liking us on Facebook, calling the Parks and Recreation Office at (509) 764-3805, signing up on Notify Me (see the "Notify Me" icon in the green bar above), or by clicking on the Current Brochure. Parks & Recreation Current Brochure

3. Can I register after a class has already started?

You can register for a class after it has started if the class has space. Please call (509) 764-3809 or stop by our office at 411 S. Balsam St. to check availability. We are unable to prorate classes.

4. Are dogs allowed in City parks?

Dogs are allowed at City parks, but they must remain on a leash at all times. Please refer to the City’s dog ordinance for more information.

5. How do I reserve a picnic shelter?

You can reserve a picnic shelter by calling (509) 764-3805 or by visiting the Parks and Recreation office, 411 S. Balsam St. Payment in full is due at the time of reservation.

6. How do I make a reservation for Cascade Campground?

You can make a reservation by calling (509) 764-3805, mailing in a reservation form, or by visiting the Parks and Recreation office at 411 S. Balsam St. Payment in full is due at the time of reservation. Reservation Form

7. How do I reserve Connelly Park?

The Moses Lake Parks and Recreation Department does not own or operate Connelly Park. Please contact the Moses Lake Irrigation District. Moses Lake Irrigation District

8. Can I camp at the Moses Lake Sand Dunes?

The Moses Lake Parks and Recreation Department does not own or operate the Sand Dunes. Please contact the Grant County Sheriff’s Department. Grant County Sherriff’s Department

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Planning Commission

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1. Are Planning Commission meetings open to the public?

Yes, anyone may attend Planning Commission meetings.

2. I want to discuss something at a Planning Commission meeting. What do I do?

There are two ways to address the Planning Commission:

1. You may write a letter explaining your issue and requesting that it be placed on a Planning Commission agenda. You will be given a date to appear before the commission and be guaranteed a chance to discuss your issue.


2. You may attend a Planning Commission meeting and request time to speak. Depending on how full the agenda is, you may or may not be given the opportunity to discuss your issue at that meeting and may be asked to come back to a later meeting.

3. I know one of the Planning Commissioners. When I received a notice about a land use action in my neighborhood, I wanted to ask the commissioner about it, but the commissioner wouldn’t talk to me.

The Planning Commissioners are members of our community, and you may know some of them. While it is tempting to want to chat with one of them about an issue you care about, they are legally not allowed to discuss an issue that will be before them for action.

All conversations about projects that will be considered by the Commission must take place in front of the Commission, so there is no chance the decision could be tainted by information not known to the full Commission. So it is not that they don’t want to help you, but that they are not allowed to talk to you individually about a project before the Commission makes a decision on the project.

If you have a question or comment about a project being reviewed by the Commission, you should talk to the Planning staff.

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Recycle and Refuse

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1. How do I find out the schedule for my trash and recycling collection?

Lakeside Disposal is the franchise for garbage and recycling collection within the City of Moses Lake. You may contact the Utility Department at 509-764-3718 who can assist you with your selection of cart service to best meet your needs as well as provide you with a schedule, or check the schedule. Recycling Schedule

2. Can I leave my Garbage, Recycling and Yard Waste carts curbside?

No, there is a City Ordinance (Municipal Code Chapter 8.08) that prohibits residents from leaving their carts curbside. You may put your carts out the night before your designated garbage day. The carts should be removed from the curb no later than the evening of your garbage day.

3. Can I opt out of the City's Recycling Program?

Yes, you are not required to participate in our Recycling Program. However, participation does have its benefits. If you recycle you will require a smaller garbage cart thus lessening your garbage bill. Plus It will decrease the quantity of garbage dumped into the landfill.

4. I want to save money on my Utility Bill, can I opt out of the garbage program and dispose of my garbage myself?

No, per City Ordinance it is manditory that we provide our residents with garbage service.
(Municipal Code Chapter 8.08)

5. My family fills our garbage cart every week. My neighbor's cart is half empty. Can I put my extra garbage in their cart?

No, it is against City Ordinance to place your garbage in the someone else's garbage cart or dumpster
(Municipal Code Chapter 8.08.060).

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Shoreline

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1. Why are shoreline permits required?

The short answer is that the State of Washington requires all cities and counties with shorelines to regulate the shoreline, through the Shoreline Management Act.
But why did the state adopt the Shoreline Management Act? It was written in 1971 in response to a citizens’ initiative petition and was adopted through a citizen referendum by a two-to-one margin. The purpose was to benefit the public interest by protecting shorelines, since they are a limited resource. The Act recognizes that it requires planning to balance protecting the public interest on one hand and private property rights on the other hand. Planning ahead means that you cannot let everyone do whatever they want, you have to think about the consequences. Requiring a permit means there is review of the action before it happens and that conditions can be placed to prevent or make up for impacts caused by the project.

2. If it is a State permit, why don’t I get a permit from the State?

Local governments are in charge of shoreline planning, under state guidance each county and city with shorelines has adopted a Shoreline Master Program containing the local rules for shorelines. Each Shoreline Master Program was reviewed and approved by the Washington State Department of Ecology before it took effect. So the State provides the guidance, and cities and counties administer the permits.

3. Why shouldn’t I cut down the tules in front of my lot?

The bulrush and cattails that grow around the edge of the lake provide the best protection from erosion, with no cost to you! The plant stems absorb the wave energy and prevent your lot from washing away. When a stable site is disturbed by removing the vegetation, likely there will be erosion problems.

4. I have erosion on my lot, so I’ll just build a bulkhead, right?

Probably not. Building a bulkhead requires permits from the City, Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Natural Resources, and the Corps of Engineers. You need to prove to all of those agencies that a bulkhead is the only method that will prevent erosion. Here is the reason bulkheads are regulated so heavily: A bulkhead (defined as a vertical wall in contact with the water) completely changes the character of the water’s edge. Instead of the natural condition of sloping very gradually into the lake, a bulkhead makes a sudden dropoff. Believe it or not, there are many important biological processes that happen in the shallow water right at the edge of the lake. Tiny fish live there, safe from larger fish, insects and smaller creatures that feed the fish and birds that live in and around the lake live there, plants along the shoreline drop leaves and insects into the water that provides food, submerged vegetation that grows in the shallow water provides refuge habitat for small fish….all of that changes if you have a bathtub edge instead of a gradual edge. In addition, a typical yard has lawn up to the bulkhead. Lawn fertilizers wash into the lake, adding nutrients that increase algae blooms. Also, any hard surface, including bulkheads and rocks, is undermined by wave action, stirring up sediment to make the lake murkier and eventually leading to the failure of the bulkhead.
If you have erosion on your lot, the best way to prevent it is to re-establish appropriate vegetation: bulrushes in the water, and woody shrubs along the water’s edge. Even better is to leave the natural shoreline vegetation intact if you are lucky enough to have it.

5. It’s a big lake. What I do on my lot doesn’t matter.

What if everyone thought that way? Everyone needs to take responsibility, because the lake belongs to us all. Most people who live on lakefront lots do so because they like the lake and the way it is. They like to watch the birds, they like to fish, they like the view across the lake. If people do not step up and take care of these resources, they will disappear, little by little.

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Snow & Ice Control

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1. Whose responsibilty is it to shovel snow off the sidewalk?

Snow removal from sidewalks along your home and/or business is the responsibility of all citizens. The best time to shovel snow is immediately after it falls and before ice can begin to form. Individuals are asked to place their shoveled/plowed snow in the gutter or on their property and NOT in the bike lane, on the sidewalk, or the street. Please refer to the City of Moses Lake Municipal Code 12.20.010 Sidewalk Service Required.

2. When the snowplows are dispatched, which streets are plowed first?

Please refer to the snow removal priority list.

3. Why does the snowplow leave a berm that blocks my driveway, mailbox, and/or car?

Please refer to the snow berm page.

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Stormwater Division

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1. What is stormwater?

Stormwater is the runoff that results from rainfall and snowmelt. As rain and snow falls to earth in agricultural and undeveloped areas, it is either absorbed or it slowly runs off and dissipates. In a growing city like Moses Lake, where rooftops and paved areas not only prevent the water from being absorbed but help it run off at a much faster rate, problems arise. Inadequate drainage systems compound these serious problems associated with heavy rains and snow thaw.

2. Why is storm water an issue? We live in a semi-arid area.

Water that collects on impervious surfaces like roofs, roads and parking areas, whether from rain, snowmelt, or irrigation sources, becomes runoff.

Runoff carries pollutants like oil, grease and heavy metals from vehicles, chemicals and animal waste from lawns, and physical debris like soils and trash into our waterways and wetlands, compromising the health of our watershed. Urban runoff is the leading source of water pollution in Washington State.

In areas of smaller annual rainfall like the Columbia Basin, pollutant load can be even greater because pollutants have a greater time to collect and concentrate on surfaces between storm events.

3. What do I do if my storm sewer grates are plugged or there is flooding on my street?

Minor storm flooding events can occur during heavy rainfalls or in times of rapid snowmelt, typically where storm drains have become blocked. If you encounter a flooding problem on City streets, please contact us as soon as possible. The City will dispatch a Stormwater crew to inspect and clear the problem.

Contact us at (509) 764-3951, Monday – Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. For issues after hours or on weekends/holidays, please contact MACC Dispatch at (509) 762-1160.

To minimize or prevent flood events, follow these easy three steps:
• Know where the storm drains on your street are
• Keep leaves and snow clear of drain grates
• Call us when you observe a problem

4. Who do I call with questions about the storm water charges on my utility bill?

Please call Utility Billing at (509) 764-3715.

5. Why is stormwater runoff a problem?

Stormwater can erode topsoil and stream banks and destroy aquatic habitats. Runoff accumulates in many areas of the city, causing nuisance flooding and possible threats to public health and safety. As the rain falls onto our streets and runs off, it carries with it pollutants such as gasoline, oil, antifreeze and heavy metals. Pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers are washed from lawns and other green spaces. Unlike sanitary sewers that go to a treatment plant, most stormwater is discharged directly to local water bodies. With the passage of time, these pollutants will buildup in our waterways and underground drainage systems causing significant environmental damage to our watershed and lake. These pollutants may also threaten our drinking water supply.

6. What’s the difference between a storm drain and a sewer drain?

The sanitary sewer system and the storm drain system are two completely separate systems. The sanitary sewer system takes all household wastewater and routes it through piping into a treatment plant. The separate stormwater system routes rainwater off the streets, into the storm drains and usually empties into our lake and drywells without being treated.

7. Where does water pollution come from?

Water pollution is difficult to trace to a specific discharge point. Because it comes from many diverse sources, it is hard to control. Examples of common pollutants include fertilizers, pesticides, pet wastes, sediments, oils, salts, trace metals and litter. They come from farms, yards, roofs, construction sites, automobiles, and streets.

8. Who do I report drainage/flooding/pollution problems to? What are some examples of drainage problems?

If a storm drain in front of your house does not work properly and causes water to pond in the roadway and adjacent area, please call 509/764-3951 to report the problem. Drainage problems may include roadway or structural flooding, clogged or failing underground pipes and culverts, bank erosion or pollution affecting a waterbody. If you witness illicit dumping of materials into the stormwater system, or notice a problem, you may call the number above or use our reporting form online.

9. What are the goals of Moses Lake’s stormwater program?

The stormwater program focuses on reducing the potential for stormwater pollution, maintaining and improving the City’s stormwater infrastructure, and improving and protecting the quality of our lake, wetlands and watershed.

10. What is a Stormwater Utility? What kind of services does the City provide?

The stormwater program is charged with the maintenance and improvement of the City’s stormwater systems located within the public rights-of-way. These systems consist of storm drains, catch basins, underground pipes, open channels, culverts and creeks.

A stormwater utility is a special assessment set up to generate funding specifically for stormwater management. Businesses and residents within the City of Moses Lake pay a stormwater fee, and the revenue collected directly supports maintenance of the existing storm drain systems, development of drainage plans, water quality programs, and funds major capital expenses. The funds pay for the ongoing and routine maintenance of the drainage system, major capital expenses for new storm sewer construction, and EPA Phase II stormwater permit requirements.

11. How can I be exempted from the stormwater charges?

The only exempted properties are public roads, railroad tracks, public airport runways, and undeveloped property.

12. How can I reduce my fee?

There is no credit or reduction available for residential properties. For commercial properties, a credit can be obtained for three special circumstances:
1) Commercial properties which collect and retain stormwater in a permissive rainwater harvesting system (credits can be up to a 10% reduction).
2) Industrial properties which are already covered by an individual NPDES Industrial Stormwater Discharge Permit may qualify for a credit of up to 80%.
3) Commercial properties which retain and treat all of their runoff in an on-site system (using appropriate Best Management Practices and design as approved by the Department of Ecology) may qualify for a credit of up to 50%.
These credits will not be cumulative, and require an application process from the Stormwater Department. Please call 764-3792 for more information.

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Street Division

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1. How do I report a street light that is malfunctioning?

Contact Grant County Public Utility District (GCPUD) at (509)766-2505. They will need an address or a detailed description of the street light location.

2. How do I report a traffic signal or traffic sign problem?

During regular business hours, contact the Public Works office at (509)764-3951. After hours, on weekends and holidays, contact MACC dispatch at (509)762-1160. They will notify the proper division to remedy the problem.

3. How do I report a pothole?

During regular business hours, contact the Public Works office at (509)764-3951.

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Utilities

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1. Where do I go to set up utilities like water, sewer, and garbage?

The City of Moses Lake provides water, sewer, and garbage services. We are located at 401 S. Balsam St. Moses Lake, WA 98837.

2. What do I need to set up a utility account?

You will need to bring valid photo ID and have the physical address, mailing address and phone number.

If you are a property owner or property manager you need to complete and submit a Property Owner Utility Services Request. Valid government issued photo ID is required. If you are requesting services remotely the form will need to notarized. The original notarized form is required, no photo copies.

If you are a tenant, you will need to complete and submit a Tenant Utility Services Request (completed by tenant) and a Utility Services Waiver (completed by property owner or manager).
Valid government issued photo ID is required. If you are requesting services remotely the form will need to notarized. The original notarized form is required, no photo copies. The account will not be put into your name until both forms are received by out Utility Department.

3. How do I discontinue services in my name?

(1) You can cancel utility services in person at the Utility Department located in the Moses Lake Civic Center at 401 S. Balsam St., Moses Lake, WA 98837. Government issued Photo ID is required.
(2) If you are out of the area or cannot come into our office in person, you can obtain the Request to Discontinue Utility Services on our city website located under Resources and Forms. All forms must be notarized. The original notarized form is required, no copies will be accepted. The form should be received by our office no later than 4:00 pm to guarantee same-day termination.

4. Can I change my utility bill due date?

No, our utility billing is based on location and cannot be changed.

5. I have multiple utility accounts with the city, can they be combined into one bill?

No, because our billing cycles are based on location we cannot combine bills.

6. Do you require a deposit for the utility services?

We do not require a deposit when opening a utility account. There is a $8.00 sign in service fee that is added to your first bill.

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Wastewater Division

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1. Whom do I call with questions on my sewer bill?

Please call Utility Billing at (509)764-3715

2. What do I do if my sewer backs up?

If you encounter a sewer backup, please call the City prior to calling a private drain cleaning service. The City will dispatch a crew to check the main sanitary sewer line at no cost to you. If the blockage is located in the main sewer line, the City will remedy the problem as quickly as possible. If the blockage occurs between the main sewer line and your house, you will be required to call a plumber to remove the blockage. The City suggests that you compare the prices, guarantees, availability, and work experience of at least three licensed plumbers. If you have a sewer backup, please call the Wastewater Division at (509)764-3966, Monday - Friday from 7:30am to 4:00pm, or the Public Works office at (509)764-3951, Monday - Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm. Afterhours or on weekends and holidays, contact MACC Dispatch at (509)762-1160.

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Water Division

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1. Whom do I call with questions on my water bill?

Please call Utility Billing at (509)764-3715.

2. The water smells like "rotten eggs", why and is it safe to use?

This condition is caused by hydrogen sulfide, a gas that occurs naturally in the water. To treat this we dose the water pumped from our wells, as it enters the distribution system, with sodium hypochlorite. This chemical produces a chlorine residual which oxidizes the gas and removes the smell. When the chlorine residual level drops, you will notice the "rotten-egg" smell. This is not a problem of health but of aesthetics. It is unpleasant to use water that has a repulsive odor. It this happens, please contact the Water Division at (509)764-3946 or the Public Works office at (509)764-3951.

3. The water is an orange/brown color, why and is it safe to use?

Sediment and rust accumulate in the bottom of the City water mains. If the water moves through the water mains at a faster speed than normal, it disturbs this accumulation and the sediment is visible in the water. Most often this happens when the water mains are flushed out or the water is turned off for a repair and then restarted. It takes several hours for the sediment to settle down. Once the sediment has settled down in the water, you may still have sediment in your plumbing system. Let the water run in a sink or bathtub until it is clear. It is advised not to use the water until it is clear. If this happens, please contact the Water Division at (509)764-3946 or the Public Works office at (509)764-3951.