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Animal Control

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1. Do I need a license for my cat or dog?

Yes. Richland Municipal Code 7.03.190 states that except as provided in Section 7.03.260, no person may keep, harbor or permit to be kept any dog or cat over seven months of age unless it is licensed. Dog and cat license fees are:

• Altered dog or cat - $10 (proof required at time of licensing)


• Unaltered dog or cat - $45


• Show dog or cat - $10


• Indigency license for dog or cat - $1


• Commercial Kennel License - $50


• Wild, dangerous or potentially dangerous animal permit - $250

Residents 65 years of age or older may purchase an indigency license where the applicant is the head of a household, files an affidavit of indigency with the finance manager, and owns only one dog or cat.

Only one senior citizen license discount allowed per household.

A no-charge license is provided for guide dogs with proof of certification. All licenses must be renewed annually. License information

2. What can be done about a barking dog disturbing the neighborhood?

For barking dogs, contact the Code Enforcement Office at (509) 942-7739, Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. After hours, call the non-emergency dispatch number, (509) 628-0333. For all other animal complaints, contact Tri-City Animal Control at (509) 545-3740.

Anonymous animal noise complaints will not be accepted. This type of complaint requires reporting party information. Animal Complaint Log and Instructions

3. Whom do I call if animals are running at large or to report a dead animal?

To report an animal running at large in your neighborhood, please contact Tri-City Animal Shelter at (509) 545-3740.

Or, you may complete the appropriate animal complaint form: Forms and Documents.

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City Attorney

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1. Does the City Attorney handle tenant landlord issues?

No. You may contact Consumer Protection at (800) 551-4636 and ask for the Tenant Landlord Division.

2. Will the City Attorney help me when I have a problem with my neighbor?

No. Most problems between neighbors are civil issues (e.g. his tree roots are tearing up my driveway; the tree leans over my fence; may I cut the branches?). The City Attorney's responsibility is to represent the municipality and its departments. The City Attorney does not represent individual citizens of Richland.

3. How do I request a public defender?

The Office of Public Defenders is located at:
Benton County District Court
7122 W. Okanogan Pl.
Kennewick, WA 99336

The phone number is (509) 222-3700.

4. May I speak to the Prosecuting Attorney before my court hearing?

The prosecutor will speak with you on the day of your court hearing. Prior to the judge entering the courtroom, the prosecutor will discuss the case with you as long as you do not have an attorney representing you. Once you have hired an attorney, or the court has appointed you one, it is unethical to discuss the case without your attorney present. It is important that you arrive at the hearing at the stated time.

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City Clerk

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1. When does the Richland City Council meet?

The Richland City Council meets on the first and third Tuesday of the month at 7:30 pm in the City of Richland's Council Chamber:
505 Swift Blvd.
Richland, WA 99352

2. May I speak to the City Council?

Yes. Council meets the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7:30 pm in Richland City Hall. You may attend any of these meetings and sign up for a two-minute opportunity to address the council.

3. Where do I find the laws enforced by the City of Richland?

The Richland Municipal Code (RMC) contains the city's laws. The City Council passes these laws through ordinances at their regularly scheduled meetings.

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City Manager

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1. How do I submit a service request?

You may make a service request using our online request tracking system. Select the topic area and then choose the appropriate form to complete and submit your request.

2. How do I make a complaint or compliment?

Working through the chain of command often resolves many complaints and is a very good way for supervisors, managers and directors to receive feedback, whether good or bad, about processes within their department. It is recommended for anyone who has a complaint or compliment to first speak to the department supervisor, then the manager and finally the department director. Our staff directory will help guide you to the appropriate staff person to assist you.

3. Where is the Benton County Auditor's Office?

The Benton County Auditor's Office is located in the Fred Meyer Plaza at 101 Wellsian Way, Suite E. Their phone number is (509) 943-3117, and they are open weekdays from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

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Code Enforcement

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1. How tall can my grass be?

Grass should not exceed six inches in height.

2. How do I submit an animal complaint?

For barking dogs, contact the Code Enforcement Office at (509) 942-7739, Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. After hours, call the non-emergency dispatch number, (509) 628-0333. For all other animal complaints, contact Tri-City Animal Control at (509) 545-3740.

Anonymous Animal Noise complaints will not be accepted. This type of complaint requires reporting party information. Animal Complaint Log and Instructions

3. How can I report a noise complaint?

Noise violations are enforced by the Richland Police Department. To report a noise violation call the non-emergency police dispatch number (509) 628-0333.

4. What is considered a junk vehicle?

Junk vehicles must be out of public view and are defined as having at least three of the five following criteria:

• Over three years old


• Expired registration/license


• Apparently inoperable


• Extensively damaged


• Scrap value only

5. How much trash is allowed in a yard?

It is a code violation to have over two cubic yards of materials or trash in a yard.

6. How must I store RVs and large vehicles?

The following vehicles may not be stored on public streets for an excess of five days, and must be set back 10 feet from the roadway on private property:

• Boats


• Campers


• Motor homes


• Recreational vehicles


• Utility trailers


• Large vehicles

7. Can I leave appliances, furniture and vehicle parts outside?

Household appliances or vehicle parts must not be visible from public / private property.

8. Are dying shrubs and trees a code violation?

Vegetation which poses a risk to healthy crops / vegetation, people or property is considered a code violation.

9. Where can I report intersection obstructions?

Any objects that interfere with the safe passage of persons or vehicles is considered to be an intersection obstruction. If the obstruction is creating an immediate hazard, call the non-emergency police dispatch number (509) 628-0333. For all other obstructions please call the City of Richland Streets Department Supervisor at (509) 942-7524.

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Commercial Recycling

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1. Can I put paper in my cardboard only container?

No. Only cardboard may be put in the cardboard-only container. If you have office paper or other types of paper for recycling, then you need to change to co-mingled service. The cardboard only service costs less because single stream recycling requires no separation before processing. It is important to keep these containers free of other recyclables and garbage.

2. How can I lower my overall garbage costs with recycling?

Here is an example of how replacing a portion of your regular garbage service with recycling service will result in a lower overall cost. If you currently have service 3 times a week for a 4-yard container, your cost is $435.00 per month. By adding a 4 yard, cardboard recycling service and reducing the regular service to twice a week you will save $104.70 per month which equates to $1,256.40 a year in savings.

3. Why can't I put glass in the recycling container?

Glass breaks as it is dumped into the truck and when the load is compacted. The broken glass lowers the value of the other recyclable materials and increases the processing costs. To keep costs low and the quality of materials high, the city does not accept glass in the curbside programs. Glass can be recycled in the large drop boxes placed around the city. Drop box map

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Compost Program

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1. Can I get compost at the landfill?

No. The compost facility is not accesible to the public at this time. Compost can be purchased from Beaver Bark or McDonald & Associates.

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Development Services

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1. What work requires a building permit?

All building, plumbing, mechanical, gas, and electrical work requires a permit, including repairs, alterations, improvements, conversions, or demolitions. This includes interior remodeling work. A change of occupancy (such as a house being changed into a commercial business) requires a permit.

2. How do I report that my neighbor is building without a permit?

Please call our office directly at (509) 942-7794 to report any construction that you think is occurring without a permit or any dangerous construction activity.

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Energy Services

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1. Where can I find the latest information about the Electric Rate-Setting Process?

Click to navigate to our Electric Rates webpage

2. How do I report a street light that is not working?

Call our operations office at (509) 942-7429 with the street light address location and the H or P identification number located near the base of the pole. We'll schedule the light pole to be repaired.

3. How do I report tree branches growing in my power lines?

Call our operations office at (509) 942-7429 and report the address where the tree is located. Our arborist will contact you to discuss possible tree trimming or removal options.

4. How do I apply for an appliance rebate?

The city is not currently offering an appliance rebate program but does offer low-interest energy efficiency loans for qualifying energy efficient aplliances. Contact an Energy Specialist at (509) 942-7431 for information about this program.

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Fire & EMS

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1. How do I request a copy of a non-medical incident report?

If you would like to request a copy of an incident report, download and print the City of Richland's Request for Public Information form, fill it out and fax it directly to the Fire Department at (509) 737-0949.

2. Do you give tours of the fire station?

Sure we do. Call (509) 737-0911 to schedule a visit, and be sure to get a plastic, non-approved for firefighting, red helmet.

3. How can I ride along with the Fire Department?

The Richland Fire Department does provide opportunities for individuals to ride along with department staff. For information on who can ride along, requirements and restrictions, please view our Ride-Along Policy. If you wish to schedule a ride-along, please contact the on-duty battalion chief at (509) 942-7554. Before riding, you must complete the Ride-Along Request Form and the Ride-Along Check-Off Sheet.

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Landfill

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1. Can I send someone else with my utility bill to dump for me?

No.
Only Richland residents self hauling their loads may receive the free or reduced rate available to Richland residents. Residents with diabilities or special circumstances must get prior approval from the Solid Waste Manager in order to have someone haul for them. Call 942-7471 Monday-Friday or email solidwaste@ci.richland.wa.us at least 2 days prior.

2. Where can I take my electronics?

The Goodwill drop off location at the entrance to the landfill will accept televisions, computer monitors and towers, laptop computers, and e-readers for recycling. There is no cost to drop off these items. All other electronics and peripherals should be recycled through local office supply stores or placed in the garbage for collection with other waste.
The City of Richland is a registered collector for the Washington Materials Management E-cycle program.

3. Is there a fee for disposal at the city landfill?

Yes. There is a $10 per load up to 1200lbs fee for Richland residents. Yard waste such as tree trimmings, grass, and leaves is free for Richland residents. Proof of current garbage service required. Other fees apply for items such as tires and appliances. Other rates apply for non-residents and commercial customers. Call 942-7700 for details. The landfill accepts cash, check, Visa, Mastercard and Discover.

4. Can I dump sod for free?

No. Sod can not be processed in the composting operation so it is handled as in the same manner as dirt, rock and concrete. The cost for disposal of sod is $25 per ton for Richland and $49 per ton for non-Richland.

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Police Department

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1. How do I claim property that is being held by the police?

Property is held for the following reasons:

• Property that is evidence of a crime


• Found Property


• Property that is held for safe keeping

Property that is held as evidence cannot be released until the Prosecutor's Office or City Attorney's Office has authorized the release

Found property can be released to the owner with appropriate proof of ownership. Found property that is not claimed by the owner may be claimed by the person who turned the property in, when certain legal conditions are met.

Property that has been held for safekeeping may be released back to the owner but release may be delayed, depending on why it was initially held. A representative of the owner may pick up property with proper documentation.

You must make an appointment prior to coming to the Police Department to pick up property. Contact our evidence technicians at (509) 942-7343.

2. How do I apply for a concealed pistol license?

The Richland Police Department accepts applications for concealed pistol licenses Monday through Friday, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

You may only apply for a concealed pistol license from the Richland Police Department if you reside within the City of Richland.

Call the Richland Police Department at (509) 942-7340 for more information.

3. How much does a concealed pistol license cost?

The nonrefundable fee, paid upon application, for the original five-year license is $52.50.

The nonrefundable fee, paid upon application, for the renewal of such license is $32. A licensee may renew a license if the licensee applies for renewal within ninety days prior to the expiration date on his/her current license.

A licensee renewing after the expiration date of the license must pay a late renewal penalty of $10 in addition to the renewal fee. The nonrefundable fee, paid upon application, for a late renewal is $42.

The non-refundable fee for replacement of lost or damaged licenses is $10.

Payment shall be by cash, check, money order or credit/debit at the option of the applicant. The Richland Police Department accepts check or money order payments for the exact amount of the transaction. Other payment types may be made for concealed pistol licenses but must be taken to Richland City Hall by the applicant for receipt of the monies.

4. Can I hire an off-duty police officer?

The Richland Police Department allows officers to be hired for special events such as funeral escorts, special traffic control needs, high school dances and games and large-crowd events.

The rate for hiring off-duty officers is $35 per hour with a minimum 3-hour work period ($105 per officer). Two officers are normally assigned to events.

Contact Officer Doug Doss at (509) 430-3904 for more information.

5. How do I get a copy of a police record?

A copy of a police report can be requested either in person or by phone at the Police Department during normal business hours. Reports can also be requested using the online request form.

Requests for reports are reviewed and released after approval.

For more information or to request a report please call (509) 942-7340.
Records Request Form

6. Can I request to ride along with an officer?

The Richland Police Department does have a citizen ride-along program. Ride along forms are available at the Police Department.

Contact Officer Debbie Roe at (509) 942-7344, Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.

7. How do I make a traffic complaint?

If a citizen has a complaint about a specific violator, the incident should be reported to the non-emergency dispatch number at (509) 628-0333. General neighborhood traffic complaints can be filed with Corporal Scott Morrell at 509-942-7715.

Proactive emphasis patrols will be conducted as staffing levels, calls for service and prioritized crime problems allow. The radar trailer may be deployed as a part of responding to your neighborhood speeding complaints.

8. What crimes are occurring in my neighborhood?

Crime mapping for the City of Richland can be found at CrimeReports.com.

9. Does the police department offer fingerprinting services?

The Richland Police Department provides fingerprinting services for Richland residents on Thursdays from 8:30 am to 11:30 am. The fee for fingerprinting services is $12.70 for the first card and $6.35 for each additional card.

10. Does the state of Washington have a seat belt law?

Washington State law requires all passengers in a motor vehicle to wear seat belts. A law enforcement officer may stop and issue a notice of infraction if the driver or any passenger is observed violating this law. The penalty is $124 dollars.

Washington State seat belt law.

Washington State child restraint law.

11. Do I need to file a written report on a vehicle accident?

The driver of any vehicle involved in an accident, resulting in injury or death of any person or damage to the property of any one person to an apparent extent equal to or greater than $750, shall make a written report within four days of the accident. Accident report forms are available at the Richland Police Department.

Drivers are not required to make a written report when the accident is investigated by Law Enforcement.

12. How do I apply to be a reserve officer or police explorer?

The Richland Police Department is not accepting applications for reserve officers or police explorers at this time.

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Public Works

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1. • I heard the city will be doing construction work on my street. Whom do I contact to find out about it?

Please call the Public Works Engineering Office at 942-7500.

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Residential Yard Waste

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1. What if I have too much yard waste for my container?

Overflow can be placed in the grey garbage can or residents can take extra yard waste to the landfill for composting. Yard waste is free at the landfill as long as residents place the material in the compost area.

2. Program overview and other information

Find answers to other frequently asked questions here.

3. Can I dump sod for free?

No. Sod can not be processed in the composting operation so it is handled as in the same manner as dirt, rock and concrete. The cost for disposal of sod is $25 per ton for Richland and $49 per ton for non-Richland.

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Solid Waste

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1. Where can I take recycling?

You can take paper, plastic 1 and 2, glass, tin, aluminum, pressboard, newspaper, magazines and cardboard to one of 9 drop boxes located in Richland. In addition, you can recycle at the curb for a nominal monthly charge. Please call (509) 942-7700 for more information. The locations and map are on our website. Recycling Drop Box Map

2. Is there a fee for disposal at the city landfill?

Yes. There is a $10 per load up to 1200lbs fee for Richland residents. Yard waste such as tree trimmings, grass, and leaves is free for Richland residents. Proof of current garbage service required. Other fees apply for items such as tires and appliances. Other rates apply for non-residents and commercial customers. Call 942-7700 for details. The landfill accepts cash, check, Visa, Mastercard and Discover.

3. Where can I take my electronics?

The landfill will accept televisions, computer monitors and towers, laptop computers, and e-readers for recycling. There is no cost to drop off these items. All other electronics and peripherals should be recycled through local office supply stores or placed in the garbage for collection with other waste.
The City of Richland is a registered collector for the Washington Materials Management E-cycle program. Check out more options for recycling...

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Stormwater Division

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1. • What should I do if I see someone pouring oil, anti-freeze, paint or anything other than rainwater into the city's stormwater system?

Immediately call the city's Stormwater Hotline at (509) 942-7480, Monday to Friday from 7:00 am to 3:30 pm. After hours, on weekends or holidays, please call our service at (509) 545-2763.

2. • What should I do if I see muddy water flowing off a construction site?

Please call the city's Public Works Engineering Division at (509) 942-7500 or the city's Stormwater Hotline at (509) 942-7480.

3. • Is it okay to drain my swimming pool into a catch basin?

Not without first de-chlorinating the pool water to less than 0.1 ppm (parts per million). Sodium thiosulfate or other products used to dechlorinate the water can be purchased at your local pool supply store. Please call the city's Stormwater Hotline before draining at (509) 942-7480.

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Streets

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1. • How do I report a streetlight out?

Please call Energy Services at (509)942-7429.

2. • How do I report a pothole?

You can report a pothole by clicking on the request tracker at the bottom left of the page and completing the form in the Streets section. Or, you can call 942-7524. Please leave a message if someone does not answer. We will listen to the message fix the pothole as soon as we can.

3. • How do I report an icy intersection?

Please call Annette Melville - 509.942.7670

4. • When will the snowplow plow my street?

View the snow removal map to see when your street will be plowed.

5. • When does a street sweeper sweep my street?

View the street sweeping information map. Typically each street gets swept three or four times a year.

6. • Does the City pick up dead animals along the roadway?

The Street Maintenance Division picks up dead wild animals only. Animal Control is responsible for picking up dead domestic animals.

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Traffic and Streets

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1. • How do I report a traffic signal that is not working?

If the traffic signal is flashing "all red", or is dark, with no lit indications, please call 942-7429. If the traffic signal is believed to be operating poorly, please fill out the form in Request Tracker at the bottom left corner of the web page.

2. • How do I report a street light not working or still on during the daylight hours?

Please complete the form in Request Tracker located at the bottom left corner of the web page. Or, you may call 942-7429.

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Utility Billing

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1. I need assistance with online registration or have problems with the online payments.

Please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions FAQs Infinity.Link online payments

2. Where do I mail my payment?

Send Payments to:
PO Box 34811
Seattle, WA 98124-1811

3. Where are the payment drop boxes located?

1. City Hall, 505 Swift Blvd., Richland, WA
2. Albertson's Grocery Store, 140 Gage Blvd., Richland, WA

4. I want to pay the same amount each month, how do I sign up?

Budget billing is a way to keep your utility payments equal for twelve consecutive months. This service makes it easier to figure your utility costs into your monthly budget. At the end of twelve months, the total of all payments received is subtracted from the total amount used. The difference is factored into setting the amount of the next twelve payments. If you are interested in this service, please call our Utility Billing Department at (509) 942-1104 ext. 1.

5. Where do I pay my utility bill online?

Please have your utility billing statement on hand before you begin. You must have your customer and account number to start. Your customer number is the eight digits before the dash-the account number is the eight digits after the dash. Please be sure to include the leading zeros. Online forms of payment are eCheck, Visa, and Mastercard. Pay Online

6. Who do I contact for Utility Line Locate?

Call (800) 424-5555 or visit www.callbeforeyoudig.org.

7. How do I donate to the Helping Hands Program?

The Helping Hands program is designed to assist customers in a time of need and is managed by the Benton Franklin Community Action Council.

The City of Richland now has three options for Helping Hands. You may participate modify or cancel at any time. The following sign up options are listed on your utility bill:
1. One-time payment - enter the amount you want to contribute and add that amount to the "Amount Enclosed" with your utility payment.
2. Round Up - on your utility bill, check Sign up for Helping Hands checkbox and complete the back of the bill stub to indicate this is the Helping Hands program you would like to participate in. Each month the Total Due will be rounded up to the nearest dollar. The difference between the rounded dollar amount and the Total Due will be contributed to the Helping Hands program. This will be displayed on the bill and should be added into the Amount Enclosed.
3. Specified Amount - check the Sign up for Helping Hands checkbox and complete the back of the bill stub to indicate this is the Helping Hands program you would like to participate in. You may designate the amount you would like to contribute each month. This will be displayed on the bill and should be added into the Amount Enclosed.

The Utility Billing Office can also provide contact information to customers that need financial assistance to help pay their utility bill.

8. How do I keep my fence locked when the meter is located behind the fence?

The Utility Billing office can issue you a lock and key for the gate, free of charge. The meter readers keep a duplicate key so they can access your yard to read the meter. This allows you to have an accurate, actual read on your bill instead of an estimated one. To request a lock, please visit the Utility Billing Office in Richland City Hall.

9. How do I read my utility bill?

Please select the link which will provide an explanation for each item on your utility bill. If you still have questions, please contact our Utility Billing office at (509) 942-1104 option 1. How to read your utility bill

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Wastewater Division

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1. • 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. Please call the city Monday through Friday from 7:00 am to 3:30 pm at (509) 942-7480. After hours, on holidays and on weekends - (509) 545-2763.

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

Please call utility billing at (509) 942-2321.

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Water Utility

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1. Does the City recommend I purchase insurance protecting the pipe between the City’s meter and my home?

No. The City recommends that each property owner carefully evaluate coverage offered by their homeowner’s insurance policy and any supplemental insurance programs offered to them.

2. The concrete lid on my meter box is broken; whom do I call?

Call the Water Maintenance Department at (509) 942-7670.

3. I have low water pressure, what should I do?

If you have a water softener, check the filter. A dirty filter will impede the flow of water. If your filter is fine or you don't have a water softener, call the Water Maintenance Department at (509) 942-7670 and we will arrange for someone to come out and do a pressure test for you. There is no cost for this service.

4. My water tastes funny or is discolored. What should I do?

Call Water Quality at (509) 942-7474 to determine what the problem is.