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City Clerk

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1. How do I obtain a passport?

The City of Sequim does not provide passport services. They can be obtained at the Clallam County Auditor's Office. Call 360-417-2220.

2. How do I obtain a copy of a document?

You can submit a Request for Public Document by email, fax, or in person.

3. How do I obtain a proclamation?

If you would like your proclamation read at a City Council meeting, please submit your request and a copy of the proposed proclamation to the City Clerk at least three weeks in advance of the appropriate council meeting. Proclamation request

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DCD - Building

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1. What is the design criteria for the City of Sequim?

See our Design Criteria worksheet.

2. Do I need a building permit?

Generally, yes. SMC 15.04.025 lists exemptions from permit requirements. Always contact us if you're in doubt.

3. Do you accept electronic submittals?

Electronic submittals are encouraged. You can submit your complete permit application packet to buildingdept@sequimwa.gov. 

4. Do I need a permit to build a fence?

Yes, if the fence is over 7'. Fences over 8' also require engineering. The fence still must meet the sight triangle requirements for corner lots and not be built in the right of way. For state laws regarding fences, see RCW Chapter 16.60. For more information, see our handout on fences.

5. Do I need a permit to install or replace my propane tank, water heater, or heat pump?

Yes. These would all be over the counter permits, however the requirements vary for manufactured homes. In manufactured homes, permits are required for water heaters, HVAC equipment, and gas lines from Washington State Department of Labor & Industries. Propane tanks installed for manufactured homes require a permit from the City of Sequim.

6. Do I need a permit to re-roof my commercial business or residence?

Yes. Our application is available here: MechanicalPlumbingRe-RoofSolarDemo-Permit-Application (sequimwa.gov). We also require a site plan with the structure marked.

Manufactured home re-roofs are permitted through Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.

7. Do I need a permit to add on to my manufactured home?

Yes, a residential building permit would be required for the new structure. An alteration permit may also be required from the Department of Labor & Industries.

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DCD - Community & Economic Development

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1. Where can I find the City's 2015 Comprehensive Plan?

Sequim 2015 - 2035 Comprehensive Plan page. 2015 -2035 Comprehensive Plan

2. Can I build a deck without a permit?

Only residential decks, platforms, walks and driveways not more than thirty (30") inches above grade and not located over any basement or story below. They still need to be built to the current building code and meet all set backs.

3. What is the maximum square foot structure I can build a on a residential property without a permit?

One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet. The structure needs to meet all set backs and be built to the current building code.

4. Can I build a fence without a permit?

Residential only if the fence is not over 6 feet high. The fence needs to be built to the current building code. If this is a corner lot, contact Community Development Building Department at (360) 683-4908.

5. Where can I find development permit activity?

Residential Permit Activity Page Residential Building Permit Applications

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DCD - Permitting

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1. Do you accept electronic submittals?

Electronic submittals are encouraged. Submit your complete permit packets to buildingdept@sequimwa.gov.

2. How much do permits cost?

Building permit fees are available here.

3. How long does plan review take?

Generally around 4-6 weeks from the time plan review fees are paid until the plans are approved.

4. How do I request an inspection?

Call the Building Inspection Hotline at (360) 683-4908 ext. 2 and leave a clear message with your name, permit number, site address, the type of inspection you are requesting, and a call back number. To be on the daily routing, inspection requests must be received prior to 7:30 am. There are no inspections performed on Mondays. 

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DCD - Planning / Zoning

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1. What is my property zoned and what can I do?

View our zoning map. For information on what is allowed in your zone, see SMC 18.20.

2. What are my setbacks?

Setbacks vary for a number of reasons, most notably zoning regulations. View your zone table to determine setbacks for your lot.

3. How do I find my property lines?

The city does not provide surveying services. In order to accurately determine where your property lines are please contact a certified surveyor of your choosing.

4. Are there any restrictions on my property?

You can search for any recorded documents on the Clallam County Assessor's Page.
Alternatively, you can view the City of Sequim's Public Records Portal for potential violations on your property (or request records).

5. Can my property be divided?

If your property is commercial, yes, through a Binding Site Plan.

If your property is residential, maybe. All lots created must be within 5,400-14,500 square feet for single family residential lots. Contact the planning department for more information.

6. How do I comment on projects in my area?

If you are within a 300’ radius of a project that requires public noticing, you will be notified by mail. Additional notice will be posted on the site, on our city website (current projects page) as well as in the Peninsula Daily News. The public notice will indicate how to send in your comments.

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Facility Rentals

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1. How much do Facility Rentals cost?

Total rental cost includes facility rental fee, cleaning fee, and refundable damage deposit. Refer to Facility Rental Rate Sheet.

2. When do I have to pay?

Fees and deposits must be paid in full within 7 calendar days of facility request confirmation. 

3. What type of licenses and permits are required?

Refer to “What do I need?”  flowchart.

4. Do I need insurance?

Insurance is required if facility use includes alcohol, athletic participation, or hot food/kitchen use. Refer to “What do I need?” flowchart. 

5. When do I have to provide proof of insurance?

Proof of insurance is required no less than 10 calendar days prior to the date of your facility rental. 

6. When and where is alcohol permitted?

Alcohol service is only allowed during your rented event hours. Alcohol service must end 1 hour prior to the event end time. For example, an event ending at 10 pm will do last call at 9:00 pm. Serving and consuming alcohol is only permitted inside rented buildings and not in park or parking lots. Coolers or containers of alcoholic beverages are not allowed outside of rented facility. Insurance and permits are usually required. Refer to “What do I need?” flowchart.  

7. What permits and insurance are required if I will be serving alcohol?

Refer to “What do I need?” flowchart.

8. Does the City provide dishes, serving utensils, silverware, etc.?

A limited amount of kitchen materials is available for use by those renting Guy Cole Hall Kitchen. 

9. Can I decorate the Guy Cole Center for my event?

Before renting facility, renter will provide the City with written list of types of decorations, amplification equipment, and special effects equipment that may be used during the event. The City reserves the right to prohibit use of certain decorations or equipment, or to adjust deposits to reflect enhanced cleanup costs. Sound systems must be used in compliance with noise-related laws and regulations. 

The City does not allow under any circumstances or at any facility the following decorations or equipment:

• Confetti, birdseed, or glitter

• Rice (other than consumed as food)

• Inflatable structures

• Fireworks

• Stickers (other than name tags), glue, or tape (except painter’s)

• Bubble and fog machines

 

10. Can I arrive early the day before to set up?

You must include set up in your reserved rental hours. Renters are not permitted to enter premises early to set up their event.

11. Our event is going late into the night. Can we come back the next day to clean?

You must include takedown and cleaning in your reserved rental hours. Renters are not permitted to enter the premises after their reservation time to clean. 

12. When am I required to both rent a facility AND obtain a Special Event Permit?

A special event is a temporary use that affects the ordinary and normal use of public property or facilities, or that affects traffic flow, right-of-way, parking, public safety, or operations/services of the City or other public agencies. Per Sequim Municipal Code certain events will require a special event permit. See the "Is a Special Event Permit Required?" checklist.

13. Are the Civic Center City Council Chambers or Burkett Room available for rent?

Due to changes resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Council Chambers and Burkett Room remain closed to the public until further notice.

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General Information

Show All Answers

1. Where can I find development permit activity?

Resident Permit Activity Page Residential Building Permit Applications

2. Where can I find the 2015 Comprehensive Plan and Vision?

On the 2015 - 2035 Comprehensive Plan page. 2015 - 20135 Comprehensive Plan

3. How do I obtain a copy of a document?

You can submit a Request for Public Document by email, fax, or in person.

4. Where does my water come from?

The City's water supply system consists of three sources: the Dungeness River Infiltration Gallery, the Silberhorn Wellfield, and the Port Williams Well field. Prior to construction of the Infiltration Gallery, the City diverted water directly out of the Dungeness River. In 1953 the City was authorized to withdraw water from the infiltration gallery, and in 1954 a second surface-water diversion was authorized to convey water from the river to the infiltration gallery. Groundwater withdrawals from the Silberhorn Well field were authorized in 1975, and pumping from the Port Williams well field was authorized in 1996.

5. What is the maximum square foot structure I can build on a residential property without a permit?

One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area dos not exceed 200 square feet. The structure needs to meet all set backs and be built to the current building code.

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Legal

Show All Answers

1. How do I request copies of public records or police reports?

If you are a defense attorney or a defendant acting as your own attorney ("pro se"), request police reports through the regular court discovery process.

If you are requesting public records or police reports under the state Public Records Act, click here.

If you are requesting police reports under a statute other than the Public Records Act, click here.
Public Records Page

2. How do I contact District Court?

Sequim's misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor criminal cases and infractions are usually heard in Clallam County District Court I in Port Angeles. The general phone number for Clallam County is 360-417-2000. The court is located at 223 East 4th Street in Port Angeles, off of Lincoln Street, across from Safeway, on the second floor. The fax number is 360-417-2403. District Court Web Site

3. How do I contact the Clallam County Prosecutor?

For felony cases, dial 360-417-2301 and listen to the menu options.

For Sequim misdemeanors and gross misdemeanors that are being handled by the County due to jurisdictional or conflict issues, dial 360-417-2368, fax 360-417-2422. All other Sequim misdemeanor cases, contact the City of Sequim Legal Department at 681-6611.

4. How do I contact Clallam County's crime victim/witness coordinator?

Forks Abuse Program provides crime victim services for the entire county. This program has many resources available. Forks Abuse Program

5. Where can I obtain legal help in non-criminal matters if I can't afford an attorney?

The City Attorney is the legal adviser to the City Council and City Officials. The City Attorney cannot give legal advice to private citizens. Fortunately, there are numerous sources of free or low cost legal advice available in our community. The Public Library (North Olympic Library System) has lists of some of these resources and some self-help legal publications. There are other resources including Northwest Justice Project in Port Angeles. North Olympic Library System

6. Who accepts service of lawsuits and other official documents on behalf of the City of Sequim?

The City Clerk accepts service of lawsuits and other official documents on behalf of the City of Sequim. At times, the City Attorney may agree to accept service of lawsuits, but only through a formal written process.

7. What are the City's requirements with regard to garbage pickup service?

Every resident and business within the city limits of Sequim must have garbage pickup service. See SMC 8.08.040. Sequim Municipal Code

8. What can be done about my neighbor's junk vehicles or weedy yard or barking dogs?

See our ordinances and Code Enforcement page. Our resources for enforcing public nuisance ordinances are very limited; however, we are committed to helping ensure a safe and pleasant environment for all citizens. The City works with property owners to achieve compliance with the Municipal Code requirements. Code Compliance Page

9. Why can't the City Attorney or other Legal Department staff or the contract Prosecutor talk to me or give me legal advice?

The City Attorney represents the governmental entity of the City of Sequim and its elected officials and employees. The City Attorney is not allowed to represent individual citizens who live in Sequim, and therefore cannot advise them on any legal matter, especially in situations where the citizen may have a dispute with the City.

Other Legal Department staff are under the same restrictions as the City Attorney, and in addition are prohibited from giving legal advice if they are not attorneys.

The contract Prosecutor represents the City against people arrested for certain crimes within the Sequim city limits. He can only speak to defendants who have informed him and the judge that they are proceeding "pro se" --- that is, representing themselves. He cannot advise defendants because his position is adversarial; however, he may discuss scheduling issues and pleas with a pro se defendant.

10. Can I get a different court date?

If you are a DEFENDANT in a Sequim criminal case, contact your attorney to discuss a "continuance" or "set-over" of a court date. If you are representing yourself "pro se", you may request a different court date in writing to the court, with a copy to us, setting forth your name, the case number, the current court date, and the reason you need a different date. The judge will decide whether to grant your request and may require that you appear in court or by phone to discuss a continuance. If the judge doesn't grant the request and you don't show up for the current court date, a bench warrant will likely be issued for your arrest.

If you are a WITNESS in a Sequim criminal case and unavailable for a court date, please contact us right away by phone. We may ask that you provide us with a written statement to support our request for a new date, or we may determine that your testimony is no longer required and will excuse you from complying with the subpoena.

11. What do I do with this subpoena I received?

A subpoena is an important document that should not be disregarded or misplaced. Most subpoenas the City issues are to bring witnesses to court to testify on misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor cases. Very often those trials do not occur because the case gets resolved. Read the instructions on the subpoena carefully. Call if you have any questions, and especially be sure to call before you make a trip to court. Non-compliance with a subpoena may have serious consequences.

12. Can I "drop the charges" when I'm the victim of an assault case?

No. Only a prosecutor or court can "drop charges", not a victim. However, in some cases a victim may ask for termination or modification of a "no contact" order prohibiting contact between the victim and a defendant. This procedure (link) applies only to cases where the City of Sequim is the plaintiff.

13. How do I serve legal documents on the City, the City Attorney or the contract Prosecutor?

Initial service of process of lawsuits or claims against the City must be made upon the City Clerk and comply with court rules and applicable statutes.
Subsequent documents in CIVIL matters (if allowed by court rule) may be served by mail upon the City Attorney at 152 W. Cedar Street, Sequim WA 98382. The City Attorney does NOT accept service by fax or email unless prior permission is granted in writing.
Motions and pleadings in CRIMINAL matters should be served by mail upon the City Attorney's office at 152 W. Cedar Street, Sequim WA 98382 or by fax to 360-681-2380. Pleadings in criminal matters should be served on the Clallam County Prosecutor's Office, which currently handles all criminal cases for the City of Sequim. Their address is 223 East 4th Street, Port Angeles.

14. What happens if the City of Sequim charges me with a crime and I can't afford an attorney?

Defendants in criminal cases who are determined by the Judge to be unable to afford a lawyer will have a Public Defender or private attorney appointed by the court to represent them.

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Police Department - Project Lifesaver

Show All Answers

1. How frequently should a transmitter battery be changed?

Batteries emit a signal each second and must be changed monthly. Battery changes are scheduled monthly at the Sequim Police Department, located at 152 West Cedar Street.

2. Is the transmitter waterproof?

Yes. Clients can shower and swim while wearing the transmitter.

3. Can a caretaker replace the battery in a client’s transmitter?

No. The battery must be replaced and tested by a member of the Project Lifesaver team. To schedule a battery change, please contact the Sequim Police Department at (360) 683-7227.

4. What happens if something goes wrong with the equipment?

Call the Sequim Police Department immediately at (360) 683-7227.

5. What happens if the transmitter is lost?

Call the Sequim Police Department immediately at (360) 683-7227.

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Public Works

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1. If my household drains are stopped up, who is responsible?

If you find that none of the drains in your house are properly draining call the City of Sequim at 360-683-5062 first. We will investigate to see if the City's collection line is clogged. If it is clogged we will unclog it immediately at no cost to you. If it is running freely we will notify so you may call a plumber to unclog your pipes or tap.

2. Who do I call at night if I have a water or sewer problem or see a water or sewer problem?

For after hours, weekend, or holiday occurrences call the City of Sequim Police Department at 360-683-7227 or in case of an emergency, call 911.

3. Where does my water come from?

The City's water supply system consists of three sources: the Dungeness River Infiltration Gallery, the Silberhorn Wellfield, and the Port Williams Well field. Prior to construction of the Infiltration Gallery, the City diverted water directly out of the Dungeness River. In 1953 the City was authorized to withdraw water from the infiltration gallery, and in 1954 a second surface-water diversion was authorized to convey water from the river to the infiltration gallery. Groundwater withdrawals from the Silberhorn Well field were authorized in 1975, and pumping from the Port Williams well field was authorized in 1996.

4. What are your phone and fax numbers?

City of Sequim Public Works Department  360-683-5062, Fax 360-681-0552

5. Do you have tours for groups, etc?

Yes. We are happy to schedule tours of our City and its infrastructure for schools or civic group. For more information, contact the City of Sequim Public Works Department at  360-683-5062.

6. How does the City of Sequim treat its sewer?

In November, 1995 the City of Sequim adopted Resolution 95-08 which established a wastewater task force to assist the City in the research and planning of available alternatives for wastewater reuse systems and program. The Wastewater Reuse Task Force met weekly and the final report was presented to the City on February, 1997. With the aid of the $5.3 million no interest loan and a $3.4 million grant, the City has upgraded the sewage treatment facility to meet Class "A" reclaimed standards, extended the outfall 1,320 feet and done the planning/engineering for our 100% upland reuse program. In this program the Reclamation Facility effluent is no longer wasted into the strait but returned to the City and used in place of potable water for irrigation, landscape, fish habitat enhancement etc., which reduces the withdrawal from the Dungeness River and wells in the Sequim Dungeness Valley.

7. Who checks sewer backups?

Sewer backups are an emergency and should be reported immediately. Sequim Public Works Department at 152 West Cedar St., or call 360-683-4908. For after hours, weekend, or holiday occurrences call the Call the City of Sequim Police Department at  360-683-5062 or in case of an emergency, call 911. If the cause of the sewer backup is on private property it shall be the responsibility of the owner to have a licensed plumber fix the problem

8. To whom do I speak concerning water or sewer location?

Sequim Public Works Department at 152 West Cedar St., or call  360-683-5062 

9. Where does the city responsibility begin and end with respect to water and utilities?

The City is responsible for all mainlines and service connection to the meter box or vault. The City also maintains meter components and cut off located within the box. Service connections beyond the meter are the responsibility of the customer.

10. How do I get my water meter checked for accuracy?

Make your request to the City of Sequim Public Works Department at 152 West Cedar St., or call  360-683-5062 

11. How do I find out what my water pressure is?

Call Public Works Department with your address and we will provide you with the water pressure or assist you in getting your water pressure for you.

12. What can be done to remedy the drainage problems that I have on my property?

Come in to the Sequim Public Works Department to review your property. Department personnel can help you with sewer hookup questions. Or call Sequim Public Works Department at 360-683-5062 

13. How do I find out if there are any easements or rights-of-way on my property?

To find all the easements or rights-of-way that could affect you, you will need to look at the title report for your property. If you are specifically interested in City of Sequim easements, we have maps available in our Public Works Department.

14. How can I learn about any latecomer's agreements on my property?

To learn of any latecomer's agreements on your property, contact the Public Works Department or Department of Community Development at 152 W. Cedar Street, Sequim, WA, or call (360) 683-4908.

15. Can I build a fence on my property?

Before designing a fence, consider traffic sight distances and utility easements on your property. The Sequim Public Works Department can help you with your fence project.

16. Where can I dig on my property? What about utility lines?

Call the Utilities Underground Location Center at 1-800-424-5555 for free location and marking of utility lines. You are responsible for any lines that could be damaged during work on your property, so always call ahead and work carefully. Some lines on private property may not be located.

17. I need information on my side sewer, or sewer availability in my neighborhood. Who can I call?

Come in to the Sequim Public Works Department to review your property. Department personnel can help you with sewer hookup questions. Or call Sequim Public Works Department at  360-683-5062 

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Special Event Permits

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1. When is a Special Event Permit required?

A Special Event is a temporary activity  that affects ordinary and normal use of public property or facilities, or that affects traffic flow, right-of-way, parking, public safety, or operations/services of the City or other public agencies. Per Sequim Municipal Code certain events will require a Special Event Permit (SEP.)  See the "Is a Special Event Permit Required?" checklist.

2. How do I apply?

You will find the SEP application here. Please fill out the form in its entirety (please type) and save as a PDF with all required accompanying documents. Completed SEP applications can be emailed to facilities@sequimwa.gov

3. How long before my event should I apply?

SEP applications must be submitted 60 calendar days prior to event. If submitted inside of 60 days organizers must receive a waiver from Parks and Facilities Manager allowing it to be processed.

4. How much does it cost to apply?

The fee to submit a SEP application is $250 and is non-refundable.

5. When is my fee due?

The SEP application fee must be paid to complete the application. Application will not be considered until payment is received. 

6. When do I have to provide proof of insurance?

Proof of insurance is required no less than 10 calendar days prior to date of event. 

7. What is required if I will be serving alcohol?

Refer to “What do I need?” flowchart.

8. When am I required to both rent a facility AND obtain a Special Event Permit?

Facility rentals are not included in SEP applications. To rent a City facility, please visit this page. It is the responsibility of Applicant to ensure that any City-required permit or license is in place prior to renting a City facility for the event.

 

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Transportation Benefit District

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1. What is a transportation benefit district (TBD)?

A transportation benefit district (TBD) is a quasimunicipal corporation and independent taxing district created for the sole purpose of acquiring, constructing, improving, providing, and funding transportation improvements within the district.

2. Who may create a transportation benefit district (TBD)?

The legislative authority of a county or city may create a TBD by ordinance following the procedures set forth in RCW Chapter 36.73. The county or city proposing to create the TBD may include other counties, cities, port districts, or transit districts through interlocal agreements.

3. What are the boundaries of the Sequim Transportation Benefit District (TBD)?

A county or city may choose to have the TBD boundaries identical with the county or city, or just include a portion of the city or county. However, if a TBD chooses to exercise the tax authority that does not require a public vote, the boundaries of the TBD must be countywide, citywide, or unincorporated countywide. The physical boundaries of the Sequim TBD are identical with the Sequim city limits.

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Utility Billing

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1. What utilities are provided by the City of Sequim?

Water and sewer services are provided by the City of Sequim. Depending on the location of your service address, sewer-only services are available.
Sign up for Services (Water/Sewer)

Garbage services, which are required for all city residents, are provided by Olympic Disposal. Contact Olympic Disposal at (360) 452-7278 for service.
Sequim WA | Dumpster Rentals & Garbage Pickup - Waste Connections

Electricity is provided by the Clallam County PUD. For more details, contact the Clallam County PUD at (360) 452-9771.
Clallam County PUD | Welcome to Clallam County PUD (clallampud.net)

2. Is there a recycling program in the City of Sequim?

Yes. Recycling is picked up every two weeks by Olympic Disposal. Contact Olympic Disposal at (360) 452-7278 for service.
Sequim WA | Dumpster Rentals & Garbage Pickup - Waste Connections

 Also, glass recycling bins are available to citizens, free of charge, at 2nd & Hemlock (near the City Shop) and 701 E Washington (in the parking lot).

3. Where do I get recycling containers?

If recycling containers are not currently on the premises, please contact Olympic Disposal at (360) 452-7278.
Sequim WA | Dumpster Rentals & Garbage Pickup - Waste Connections

There are also some recycling bins located throughout the city, and Olympic Disposal can help you find them.

4. How do I make a Utility payment?

1) Online thru our secure website. View or Pay your Bill | Sequim, WA - Official Website (sequimwa.gov)

2) Sign up for Online Auto-Pay or recurring payments View or Pay your Bill | Sequim, WA - Official Website (sequimwa.gov)

3) Mail the payment stub from your bill with a check payable to the City of Sequim to PO Box 1087, Sequim, WA 98382.

4) In-person with a check, cash, debit or credit card at the Finance Dept. (152 W Cedar St).

5) Leave a payment in one of our drop boxes. A drive-up box is behind the public restrooms at 144 N Sequim Ave. A walk-up box is beside the front door at 152 W Cedar St.

6) We also have the option of In-house Auto-Pay. Complete the Authorization for Automatic Payment of Utility Bills form and attach a voided check. In-house Automatic Payments are deducted from checking accounts the 10th, 20th or 25th of every month, you choose which one works best for you. In-house Automatic Payment customers still receive a bill through the mail. Authorization for Automatic Payment

5. How do I sign up for Water and Sewer Utility Services?

1)   Fill out a form online on www.sequimwa.gov and submit to utilpay@sequimwa.gov Sign up for Services (Water/Sewer)

 2)   Fill out a form in-person at the Finance Dept. (152 W Cedar St.)

 Complete the required paperwork, including providing proper identification.

 If you are renting, a deposit is required. The deposit varies depending on the service location.

 If you are the owner, you can either pay the City a deposit or obtain a Credit Reference/Letter of Credit from a prior utility provider that shows on-time payments for the previous 12 months. Documentation of a current credit score is also acceptable.

6. When is my deposit refunded?

Renters deposits are applied to their account after they move out, then any credit balance is refunded.

Upon request, owners deposits may be refunded when there have been no late payments for the prior 12 months. Additionally, a deposit may be refunded in whole or in part upon close out of services.

7. How much is the deposit for Utility Services?

Renters
Deposit of up to $315.00 (depending on services requested) is required. Unless the property manager/owner provides a written waiver. Sign up for Services (Water/Sewer)

Owners
Deposit of up to $315.00 (depending on services requested) is required. However, owners have an option to provide the city with a letter of credit from a previous utility company or a credit score above 660. Sign up for Services (Water/Sewer)

Commercial
Deposit is calculated based on two billing cycles.

If you have questions, please call the Finance Department for more information at (360) 683-4139.

8. How often does the City bill for Water and Utility services?

Every month the City bills for the prior month’s usage. Bills are typically mailed out around the 1st of every month and due by the 25th of every month.

For example, if you receive a bill dated May 1st, it is for April usage and it will be due by May 25th, to avoid late charges. Due dates are clearly marked on each bill/statement.

9. When is my meter read?

Sequim Public Works personnel read all meters near the 20th of the month.

10. How are Utility rates determined?

Utility rate studies are conducted regularly by an independent party to ensure rates adequately cover the costs of providing the utility service. Rates need to ensure adequate long term funding of operations, including maintenance and improvements in infrastructure.

Utility rate studies utilize the “customer class” to determine the adequacy of the rates charged. Your customer class is typically a factor of where you live and the ability of the city to deliver services to that area. There are three different customer classes. The “sewer-only” customer class represents those customers that receive sewer services from the City but are provided water by another entity or their own well. The “water-only” class receives only water services from the city and the “water & sewer” class logically receive both services from the City.

11. What does the City charge for Water services?

Single-Family Residence
This example uses rates effective January 1, 2023, for residents within the city limits.

Water:
 Base Fee: $28.13
 Water Use: $.009785 per cubic foot for first 600 cubic feet
 $.02860 per cubic foot for 601 to 1600 cubic feet
 $.03614 per cubic foot over 1600 cubic feet
 
How to calculate:
 Total Water Consumed = 700 cubic feet
 Base Fee: $28.13
 Water Used: $8.73 (600 x $.009785) + (100 x .02860)
 Water Bill = $36.86
 
All rates are subject to change and are set by resolution /ordinance.
Current Basic Utility Rate Information

Business (note: rates differ for hotel/motels and RV sites)
This example uses rates effective January 1, 2023, for businesses within the city limits.

Water:
 Meter-size Base Fee:
 ¾” pipe $42.20
 1” pipe $70.30
 1½” pipe $140.62
 2” pipe $225.01
 3” pipe $421.75
 Water Use: $.009785 per cubic foot for first 600 cubic feet
 $.02860 per cubic foot for excess of 600 cubic feet
 
How to calculate:
 Total Water Consumed = 700 cubic feet
 Base Fee: $70.30 (for a 1" size)
 Water Used: $8.73 (600 x $.009785) + (100 x .02860)
 Water Bill = $79.03

All rates are subject to change and are set by resolution /ordinance.
Current Basic Utility Rate Information

12. What does the City charge for Sewer services?

Single-Family Residence
These examples use rates effective January 1, 2023, for residents within the city limits.

Sewer customers on City water – “water-&-sewer class”:
Base Fee: $61.16

Sewer only customers – “sewer-only class”:
Base Fee: $64.57

Residents outside the city limits are charged 1.5 times the in-city rate or as set by contract.

All rates are subject to change and are set by resolution /ordinance.
Current Basic Utility Rate Information

Business (note: rates differ for hotel/motels and RV sites):
This example uses rates effective January 1, 2023.

Business customers on City water & sewer are charged a base rate based on their water meter size. Customers that use more than 600 cubic feet of water are charged a sewer usage fee of $.063943, per cubic foot for each cubic foot over 600.

How to calculate:
 Total Used = 700 cubic feet:
 Base Fee: $97.14 (for a 3/4" size)
 Sewer Usage over 600 cubic feet: $6.39 (100 x .063943)
 Sewer Bill = $103.53

All rates are subject to change and are set by resolution /ordinance.
Current Basic Utility Rate Information

13. If I go south for the winter, am I charged for Water and Sewer?

Yes, unless you request City personnel to shut off the Water meter. When the Water meter is shut off by City personnel, usage charges discontinue, however stand-by fees are still charged for both Water and Sewer.

 A stand-by fee means a fee charged by the City for Water and Sewer availability when City Water is shut-off, but not disconnected. Availability means the City currently has capacity to serve the connected unit. It takes approximately three months of services to offset the water meter shut off fee. If you will be gone less than three months, you still may want to have your water shut off to prevent damage from a potential leak. The City is unable to "shut-off" Sewer-only customers.

To request your Water to be shut off, complete and bring the Standby Request form to the Finance Department at 152 W Cedar St. Standby Request Form

14. Why am I charged a stand-by fee if I’m not using City services?

The City charges a monthly stand-by fee, as long as the service address is connected to City utility infrastructure. Stand-by fees allow the City to identify any unexpected activity, such as a leak, as well as maintain the infrastructure that delivers services to your property and allows you to continue to reserve capacity in our system.

15. How much are the stand-by fees?

Effective January 1, 2022, the standby fees for Water and Sewer are each $27.31 totaling $54.62, per unit, for City Water users. 2022-Basic-Utility-Rate-Information (sequimwa.gov)

Standby is available for Water-&-Sewer and Water-only customers. Standby is not available to the Sewer-only class. Standby Request Form 

16. Does the City charge a fee for turning Water on and off?

Yes. There is a one time charge of approximately $45.00 to shut water off and turn it back on. Only City Public Works personnel are permitted to turn city water meters on and off.

17. If I think I have a leak, how do I get it checked?

Call your plumber or the City at 683-4139. If it is necessary, we will send personnel from the Public Works Department to check for a possible leak.

18. If I have a leak, how do I get an adjustment from the City?

Provide the City a picture of the damaged portion of equipment before repair. It is important that the repair not be buried before it is observed by City staff and the repair is determined to meet City standards. Next, fill out the City Leak Adjustment Request form. Once the leak is repaired, the form is signed and copies of receipts for the repair are attached to the form, the City will submit the form for review and possible approval. If approved, the Utility Billing Clerk will adjust your water bill accordingly.

Please note, each account can only apply for 1 leak adjustment in a 12-month period.

Leak Adjustment Application

19. Who is ultimately responsible for the utility bill?

The owner of the property is responsible for the bill. Even if the owner of the property leases out the service address to a tenant and the bill is changed into the tenant’s name, the property owner is responsible for any unpaid balances.

20. What are the charges for late payments?

A one percent charge against the balance due, plus a $5.00 Late Fee.