FAQs • Spokane County, WA • CivicEngage

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911 Communications-Employment

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1. How long does the hiring period take?: From beginning of the posting, through the end of process/testing, and to the projected start date is approximately 3 months.

2. How long will an applicant stay on the eligibility list?: An applicant will stay on the list for 12 months.

3. How long does training last?: Training includes classroom and on the job training. To complete training in both 911 and Crime Check takes between 4 to 6 months depending on the schedule for your class.

4. How long does the probationary period last?: The probationary period lasts 1 year or 2080 hours.

5. What shift do new employees usually get assigned after they are off training?: During the 1st year of probation, new employees will work varying shift assignments. Each assignment will typically be a month to 2 months long. After probation, when an employee is eligible to bid a 6-month shift, new employees will typically work graves or swings with weekdays off.

6. What is the average time employed before enough seniority is established for a day shift work assignment?: With weekdays off, about 4 years. With weekends off, about 10 or more years.

7. When 911 employees do leave, what are the most cited reasons?: The most common reasons are stress from trying to coordinate the work schedule and personal life, frustration with shift work and few holidays off.

8. What advancement opportunities are available within the agency?: Advancement opportunities include:
- Mentor
- Trainer
- Lead Call Receiver
- Supervisor

9. Are there advancement opportunities available to a police or fire dispatcher position?: No. Police and fire dispatch are separate agencies but we are co-located.

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Assessor - Property Tax Exemptions

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1. Do I qualify for senior citizen/disabled exemption?

If you are 62 or older, own your home, and have a total household income of less than $40,000, you may be eligible for a reduction in your property taxes. An application is available on the Assessor Exemption Application Forms page, or you can call 477-5754 to have one mailed to you.

Visit the Senior Exemption Page

2. What about exemptions on property?: For information regarding properties eligible for tax exemption, please visit the
Properties Eligible for Exemption Page.

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Assessor's Office

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1. Are there maps online?: Yes, you can find maps on our SCOUT Mapping Website.

2. Didn't Initiative 747 limit my property tax to a 1% annual increase?: No. Individual tax bills and assessed values are not limited to a 1% increase or any other limitation. Taxing districts have a series of budget limitations, the 1% budget increase limit being one of them; however, these limitations are complicated with special levies, banked levy capacity, annexations, and type of taxing district.

3. Do I qualify for senior citizen/disabled exemption?: If you are 62 or older, own your home, and have a total household income of less than $40,000, you may be eligible for a reduction in your property taxes. An application is available on the Assessor Exemption Application Forms page, or you can call 477-5754 to have one mailed to you.

Visit the Senior Exemption Page

4. What about exemptions on property?: For information regarding properties eligible for tax exemption, please visit the Properties Eligible for Exemption Page.

5. How are property taxes levied?: Two things determine your property taxes:
- Your assessed value, and
- The budgets of the tax districts in which you live.

Throughout the year, my appraisal staff assesses all residential and commercial property at fair market value. In November, each of the 56 Spokane County tax districts establishes a budget and sends their budget resolution to me. In January, I use the budget resolutions to calculate levy rates to fund those budgets. Then in February, the Treasurer uses my levy rates and assessed values to determine individual property taxes. Washington State has a budget based property tax system where only the proportionate amount of the budget is collected from the property owners according to their assessed value.

Homeowner's Guide to Property Taxes (PDF)

6. How does the Assessor value commercial property?: Washington law allows the assessor to value property using the three recognized approaches to value:
- Replacement Cost
- Market
- Income

The method of valuation is determined by the type of property and the data available for each methodology.

7. Is assessed value different than market value?: Yes. The Assessor’s Office values or assesses property for the purposes of determining property taxes as of January 1st of any given year. Market value is what a willing buyer and seller determine to be the value on an ongoing basis throughout the year.

8. Is my Senior Citizen or Disabled Person Exemption Application processed yet?: We process applications in the order received. When your application has been processed, you or your mortgage company will receive a corrected tax statement from the treasurer’s office. If you’d like to check the status of your application, please call 509-477-3698.

9. My property was revalued last year. Why did my assessed value go up?: Assessed values are driven by the real estate market. The assessor's office values property based on sales information. The real estate market tends to be cyclical in nature with highs and lows. When real estate sales in your area indicate little or no appreciation in value, your assessed value will reflect that change also.

10. What is the Open Space Act?: For information regarding the Open Space Taxation Act, enacted in 1970, please visit our Current Use Programs Page.

11. What is the Property Valuation Cycle?: The following factors are involved in the Property Valuation Cycle:
- All real property is revalued annually, with a physical inspection completed at least once every six years.
- New construction is appraised annually.
- Personal property is recalculated each year based on current listings.
- Property owners are notified when assessed values change.
- State law mandates that all property must be valued at 100% true and fair market value, which is the amount the property would most likely sell for on the open market.

A single sale does not necessarily establish market value. The following factors are used to determine the assessed value for residential, commercial, and industrial property:
- Comparable sales
- Depreciated replacement cost
- Income approaches

The assessor uses mass appraisal methods to appraise approximately 212,000 real property parcels in Spokane County.

12. What is personal property?: All property can be divided into two major categories: real property and personal property. Real property is generally immovable and includes land, buildings, and permanent structures. The chief characteristic of personal property is its mobility. Some examples of taxable personal property are office furniture and equipment, computers, software, store equipment, manufacturing equipment, signs, and farm machinery.

13. What is property tax?: Property tax is a tax that is imposed on persons because of their ownership or possession of property and is measured by the market value of the property. In Washington State, all real and personal property are subject to tax unless specifically exempted by law. Property tax was the first tax levied in the state of Washington.

Today, property tax accounts for about 30% of total state and local taxes. It continues to be the most important revenue source for public schools, fire protection, libraries, and parks and recreation.

14. When are property taxes determined?: Property taxes are calculated at the end of the calendar year for the next calendar year’s taxes. Therefore, please note when you receive your Official Assessment Notice in June, the levy rates and taxes will not be calculated until mid-January the following year.

15. Where do I get information about property ownership and legal descriptions?: The Spokane County Assessor can provide you with information about property ownership, sales, legal descriptions, pending segregations, etc.

Contact the Assessor's Office

16. Where do I get information about the assessed value of my property?: The Spokane County Assessor can provide you with information about the assessed value of your property. Contact the Assessor's Office

17. Where’s my property line?: If you cannot locate your property corners, the safest action is to contact a Private Land Surveyor. You can contact the Auditor's Office at 509-477-2270 to check for a recent survey or to acquire a copy of your plat, but keep in mind any improvements made without proper knowledge of property limits could result in litigation.

18. Who do I contact to see what my property taxes will be?: The Treasurer's Office can answer tax billing questions, and can be reached at 509-477-4713.

19. Who must report personal property?: Everyone who owns a business must report all personal property assets to the County Assessor. The telephone number for personal property assessment is 509-477-4787.

20. Why are there two addresses on my Official Assessment Notice?: The first address is the legal owner address and is used by the assessor to address assessment notices. Questions or corrections to owner address can be handled by contacting the Assessor’s Office at 509-477-3698.

The second address is the taxpayer address and is used by the treasurer to address tax bills. Questions or corrections to taxpayer address can be handled by contacting the treasurer’s office at 509-477-4713.

21. Why do my property lines not line up with the aerial photo and/or street centerlines?: The data used on the interactive Parcel Viewer comes from various sources, and it does not always align perfectly.

22. What are Property Class Codes?: Property Class Codes are three-digit numbers that identify specific property types. For a list of Property Class Codes, click here.

23. How do I contact the Department of Revenue?: The Washington State Department of Revenue (DOR) is the regulatory agency overseeing the operations of all County Assessors. For a link to the DOR's Property Tax Division,
click here.

24. How do I sell or move my mobile home?

Follow the link below for instructions:

https://www.spokanecounty.org/819/Mobile-Homes

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Auditor

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1. Where do I get a marriage license?: The Spokane County Auditor issues marriage licenses. For more information, please contact their office on the first floor of the Spokane County Courthouse, 1116 West Broadway. Marriage Information Page

2. Where do I get information about land deeds, titles, other recorded documents?: The Spokane County Auditor can provide you with information about land deeds, titles, other recorded documents. Auditor Recording Department Page

3. Where do I get information about renewing my vehicle license?: See the Auto Licensing Division of the Spokane County Auditor's Office. Auto Licensing Division Page

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Board of Equalization

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1. What is the correlation between the County Assessor, County Treasurer, and the County Board of Equalization?: - The County Assessor establishes the assessed valuation on your property.

- The County Treasurer calculates and collects taxes on your property based upon its assessed value.

- The County Board of Equalization is a completely independent entity that handles the "appeal process and hearing" if your issues of your assessment valuation are not resolved between you and the Assessor.

2. What is the basic order of processes, procedures, and time frame of appeal?: The following is a general list of steps in the appeal process in chronological order:

- Petition entered into database with assignment of petition number

- Petition made available to Assessor for review and response

- Hearing agenda/scheduling for hearing

- Board hearing session conducted

- Board ruling

- Summary composition of each case/ruling

- Board order administered

For a more detailed outline of these steps, visit the
General Outline of Appeal Process page.

3. How can I appeal the assessed value of my property?: The only way to appeal an assessor's valuation of your property is by timely filing a complete appeal petition with the County Board of Equalization. There is no fee charged for filing an appeal. The appeal petition form must be used. A letter or phone call is not acceptable as a substitute for the petition form.

4. Who may file an appeal?: A property owner or "taxpayer" may appeal. "Taxpayer" means the person or entity whose name and address appears on the assessment rolls, or their duly authorized agent. The appeal is filed with the Board of Equalization of the county in which the property is located.

5. Where can I get an appeal form?: Appeal petition forms are available at the Board of Equalization office, or you may download them from the Forms Page.

6. What is the deadline for filing?: July 1st of the assessment year or within 30 days of when the "Change of Value Notice" was mailed by the Assessor's Office, whichever date is later. If you mail your petition, it must be postmarked by midnight of the deadline. You may hand deliver the petition to the Board of Equalization and have it date stamped.

If you are appealing other assessor determinations, for example, denial of an application for current use or the removal of classification from property by the assessor, you also have 30 days from the date of the mailing of notification.

7. When should I contact the Assessor's Office?: Contact the Assessor's Office to review your valuation any time you have a question regarding your property value. Property owners can often settle disagreements at this level without continuing the appeal process. However, you still need to preserve your appeal rights by timely filing your petition with the Board of Equalization.

8. When do I receive a "Change of Value Notice" or "Value Notice"?: If you did not receive a notice of change of value due to the occurrence of all of the following:

- The taxpayer was absent from his or her home or from the address where the assessment notice or value change notice is normally received by the taxpayer. If the notice is normally mailed by the Assessor or a mortgage or other agent of the taxpayer, the taxpayer must show the mortgage or other agent was required, pursuant to written instructions from the taxpayer, to promptly transmit the notice and failed to do so; and

- The taxpayer was absent (as described above) for more than fifteen days prior to the filing deadline; and

- The filing deadline is after July 1 of the assessment year.

Contact the Board of Equalization for possible waiver for good cause.

Also, keep in mind that the Assessor is obligated to send the notice to the "owner" whose name and address appears on the assessment rolls. Often, the "owner" and "taxpayer" can also be two different parties. It is therefore your responsibility to notify the assessor of any incorrect information or address changes. It is additionally your responsibility to request that the Assessor or the mortgage or the lending company send copies of the notices to you.

9. How does the Assessor value my property?: State law requires the assessor to value all taxable property at 100% of its true and fair market value in money, according to the highest and best use of the property. Market value is the amount of money that a willing and unobligated buyer is willing to pay a willing and unobligated seller.

The assessor values real property using one or more acceptable appraisal methods: the market or sales comparison method, the cost approach, an income capitalization approach for income-producing property, or any combination of the three approaches.

10. What information must I provide for a completed petition?: Your properly completed petition must include specific reasons why you believe that the assessor's valuation is not correct. The amount of tax, the assessed value of other properties, the percentage of assessment increase, personal hardship, and other matters unrelated to the market value cannot, by law, be considered by the Board.

Include the parcel number of the property you are appealing, the assessor's determination of value, your estimate of value, comparable sales or other supporting evidence that you wish to attach. Be sure to indicate if you intend to submit additional evidence prior to the hearing. You must provide additional information at least seven business days prior to the hearing. See "Preparing an Appeal" section, linked below, for more assistance.
A properly completed petition WAC 458-14-056(5) includes:

- Answers to all relevant questions.

- Sufficient information or statements to inform the Board and the assessor of the reasons for the appeal. The amount of tax, the assessed value of other properties, the percentage of assessment increase, personal hardship, and other matters unrelated to the "market value" cannot, by law, be considered by the Board.

- All the documentary evidence which the taxpayer intends to present at the hearing need not accompany the petition to be deemed complete if otherwise fully and properly completed to preserve taxpayer's right of appeal.

- Be sure to indicate if you intend to submit additional evidence prior to the hearing. You must provide additional information at least seven business days prior to the scheduled hearing.

Preparing an Appeal

11. Am I encouraged to exchange valuation information and supporting evidence at a reasonable time prior to hearing?: Yes. This allows parties to possibly resolve their dispute at this level whereas a hearing before the independent Board of Equalization would not be necessary.

12. How is the resolve processed?: By either of two ways:

- Stipulation of Value

- Withdrawal

Forms are normally processed through the Assessor's Office requiring appropriate signatures and forwarded to the Board of Equalization for proper finalization and closure.

13. When will I have a hearing?: If resolve between you and the Assessor's Office does not occur, the Director of the Board will notify you of the location, date, and time that your hearing is scheduled. Law currently requires that notification be made 15 business days prior to the scheduled hearing.

14. What can I expect at the hearing?: You and the assessor will each have the opportunity to give oral testimony in support of your opinions of value and written evidence before our independent Board of Equalization.

Keep in mind that the assessor is, by law, presumed to be correct. The burden of proof is on you to show that the assessed value is not correct by presenting clear, cogent, and convincing evidence to support your estimate of market value.

15. How soon will I receive a decision from the board?: You will usually receive a written decision from the Board of Equalization within two weeks of the hearing.

16. What if I am not satisfied with the Board of Equalization's decision?: You may appeal the County Board's decision to the State Board of Tax Appeals. Your appeal must be filed with the State Board of Tax Appeals within 30 calendar days of the mailing of the County Board decision. You may also pay your taxes under protest and petition the Supreme Court for a refund by filing a lawsuit under chapter 84.68 RCW.

Forms are available at the Board of Equalization's office, or you may download them from the Forms Page.

17. If I do not file my appeal in a timely fashion, can the Board be reconvened to consider my petition?: There are only limited reasons for the Board to reconvene to consider assessments when an appeal was not filed by the deadline. One reason is if a new purchaser bought a property after July 1st and before December 31 of the assessment year and the sale price was less than 90 percent of the assessed value. Another would be if the taxing official has been fraudulent in performing their duties.

18. Should I wait until after my hearing to pay my property taxes?: Pay your property taxes when due. After your hearing and the decision by the Board of Equalization, the County Treasurer will notify you of any adjustment to your taxes.

19. What if I need additional information?: Additional information may be obtained in the tax statute (Chapters 84.08 and 84.48 of the Revised Code of Washington) and in the Department of Revenue's administrative rules (Chapter 458-14 Washington Administration Code)

To assist you, the following publications are available from your County Assessor's Office and Department of Revenue:

- A Homeowner's Guide to Property Taxes

- Facts on Washington's Tax Structure: Property Tax

- Facts on Personal Property Tax

- Property Tax Exemptions for Nonprofit Organizations

- Tax Relief for Senior Citizens and Disabled Person

Resource Sites

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Building & Planning

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1. How do I apply for a building permit?

Spokane County accepts online permit applications within the unincorporated County, City of Millwood, Town of Rockford, and Town of Spangle for the permit types listed below. Before applying for a permit, please verify that your location is within our service area.

https://www.spokanecounty.org/3201/Apply-for-a-Permit

E-Services

2. What construction codes are in effect in the unincorporated areas of the County?

- 2018 International Building Code

- 2018 International Residential Code

- 2018 International Mechanical Code

- 2018 International Fuel Gas Code

- 2018 International Pool and Spa Code

- 2018 International Fire Code

- 2018 Uniform Plumbing Code

- 2018 International Existing Building Code

- Washington State Energy Code

These codes may be modified, in some instances, by the provisions of the State Building Code Council and Spokane County Code, Chapter 3.

3. What design criteria do I use for designing a building?

Please open the link below:

Building Design Criteria

4. How long is my permit good for?

Building permits shall automatically expire and become invalid by limitation of time 3 years from the date of permit issuance. The Director is authorized within his/her discretion to grant 1 extension of time, for a period not to exceed 180 days. A request for an extension shall be made by the permit holder in writing and shall be submitted to and received by the Spokane County Building and Planning Department prior to the expiration date of the permit and shall demonstrate just cause for the requested extension. The building department will not notify you that the permit will or is expired, that is your responsibility.

Other permits not issued in conjunction with the construction or completion of a building or structure shall automatically expire and become invalid by limitation of time 18 months from the date of permit issuance. Exception: The above limitations on the validity of permits shall not apply to operational permits issued under the International Fire Code.

5. What is the basic minimum snow load for Spokane County?

The basic minimum roof snow load for Spokane County is 30 pounds per foot. However, areas within Spokane County have snow loads as high as 150 pounds per foot. The Scout mapping system available on the County website has snow load maps available on one of the layers to the public. This number provided is the ground snow load, which must be multiplied by .7 to obtain the roof snow load.

http://cp.spokanecounty.org/scout/SCOUTDashboard/

property addressing.

6. Do I need a permit for a fence?: Fences over 7 feet in height require building permits.

7. Do I need a fence around my swimming pool?: Residential swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs containing water over 24 inches deep, and installed on the premises of a detached one- or two- family dwelling, or a one-family townhouse not more than 3 stories in height, for the sole use of residents and invited guests, are required to be provided with a fence or barrier that complies with the requirements of the 2015 International Spa and Pool Code. Spas and hot tubs with a lockable safety cover that complies with ASTM F 1346 and swimming pools with a powered safety cover that complies with ASTM F 1346 are exempted from the barrier requirements.
Website

8. Is there radon in Spokane County?: Yes. Spokane County is one of six counties in Washington State requiring radon mitigation measures in newly-constructed residences and residential additions. Radon is a natural radioactive gas in the ground. It comes from the decay or breakdown of uranium, a radioactive element in rocks and soil. Radon has no odor, color, or taste.

9. Do I have to mitigate my home for radon?: If you are constructing a new home or an addition to an existing one, then you are required to mitigate for radon. At this time there is no requirement to mitigate the existing portion of the home.

10. How do I apply for a manufactured home permit?: For information on how to obtain a permit to install a manufactured (or mobile) home, please see brochure number BP-3 Manufacture Home Permits (PDF).

11. What is an egress window and when is it required?: An egress window is an operable window, which provides a means for emergency escape emergency response access in residential occupancies. Basements in dwelling units and each sleeping room below the fourth story need to have at least one (1) operable window or door which meets the requirements for emergency escape or rescue, and opens directly to the exterior of the building. For more information and size requirements, see brochure number BP-59 Basic Requirements for Emergency Escape (PDF).

12. What hours can construction noise take place?

The following noise disturbances are exempt from the provisions of County Code Section 6.12.010 between the hours of 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. or when conducted beyond one thousand feet of any residence where human beings reside and sleep at any hour.

-Sounds originating from temporary construction sites because of construction activity;

-Sounds originating from forest harvesting and sylvicultural activity;

-Sounds originating from the quarrying, blasting and mining minerals, including, but not limited to, sand, gravel, rock, and clay, as well as the primary reduction and processing of minerals or materials for concrete batching, asphalt mixing, and rock crushers.

Read County Code Section 6.12 for further information.

13. How do I get an address assigned to my property?

To obtain an address for your property, send us your nine-digit parcel number (found on your property tax statement), along with a site plan indicating the location and dimension of all property lines and all existing and proposed structures on the property. Also, indicate the location of the driveway intersection with the county road. Be sure to send us your mailing address and phone number or email so we can send you the new address or call you if we have any questions. Our address is: Spokane County Department of Building and Planning; Attn: Addressing; 1026 West Broadway Avenue; Spokane, WA 99260-0050. View more information:

https://www.spokanecounty.org/DocumentCenter/View/659/BP-39-Addressing-PDF

County Ordinance requires property addresses to be conspicuously displayed on a residence or place of business, or adjacent to the driveway or access road serving the building so that it readily identifies the specific property.

Numbers shall be a minimum of four inches in height with a stroke width of a half inch (1/2") and be displayed against a contrasting background. Addresses for buildings more than 100 feet from the public way need to be placed on a sign or post between 3 and 6 feet above the ground and within 25 feet of the right-of-way.

14. Where do I get my electrical permit?

Electrical permits for the unincorporated areas of Spokane County can be obtained from the:

Washington State Department of Labor & Industries

901 N. Monroe Street, Suite 100, Spokane, WA 99201

Phone: 509-324-2640

Toll-free: 1-800-509-8847

TDD: 509-324-2653

15. How high can a fence be?: The height of fences that obstruct sight is limited to 36 inches within residential front and flanking street yards. Cyclone and other fences that do not obstruct sight may be 48 inches in these areas. Fencing is not allowed within the area know as the "clear view triangle" on residential corner lots -contact the public works department for further information on the dimensions of this "triangle".

16. How often can you amend the Comprehensive Plan?: Comprehensive Plan map and text amendments are currently processed on an annual basis - proposed amendments for a given year need to be submitted by March 31 of that year.

17. What are my setbacks?: Most buildings need to be set back from front, rear, and side property lines depending on zoning and construction types. Remember, setbacks are measured from property lines, not curb lines. Zoning setbacks vary by zoning classification, so be sure to check with the Department to verify your property's setback requirements. For single-family residential structures and their accessory buildings, historically to avoid unique construction requirements is to set back the building at least 5 feet from any property lines.

18. What are Critical Areas?: There are four types of 'critical areas' designated by County Ordinance: wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, geo-hazard areas, and critical aquifer recharge areas. The County's Critical Areas Ordinance is intended to help protect and preserve these limited natural resources. The County's Critical Areas Ordinance is intended to help protect and preserve these limited natural resources.
BP-3 Manufactured Home Permits (PDF).

19. What requirements apply within critical Areas?

The Critical Areas Ordinance contains numerous requirements to help protect designated critical areas. The most prevalent include setback-and use- restrictions. Briefly, for wetlands, "buffer" setbacks can range from 25-200 feet, depending on the classification of the wetland; Fish and wildlife habitat requirements regulate uses within 1/4 mile of "point" locations (dens and nests) of priority species and require "buffers" ranging from 25-250 feet of riparian areas adjacent to flowing rivers and some creeks; Geo-hazard areas requirements regulate development on slopes of 30% or greater and Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas limit allowable uses within designated areas to help protect groundwater quality. Please contact the department for further information to determine if these Critical Areas could impact your project.

Read County Code Section 6.12.010.

20. Where can I find information about minimum lot sizes in Spokane County?: Minimum lot sizes in Spokane County are dependent on the zoning of property and can range form 40 acres per dwelling unit to more than 15 dwelling units per acre depending upon the respective zoning designation. Generally speaking, minimum lot sizes outside the Urban Growth Area Boundary are 5 acres or larger and areas inside the Urban Growth Area Boundary can be as small as 5,000 square feet. Variables to minimum lot size may be achieved through cluster developments, but in no case does a cluster development result in more lots or density that specified by the respective zoning designation. Minimum lot sizes and the development standards are found in the Spokane County Zoning Cod (PDF).
Basic Requirements for Emergency Escape (PDF)

21. What are Critical Areas?: There are four types of 'critical areas' designated by County Ordinance: wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, geo-hazard areas, and critical aquifer recharge areas. The County's Critical Areas Ordinance is intended to help protect and preserve these limited natural resources. The County's Critical Areas Ordinance is intended to help protect and preserve these limited natural resources.
Critical Areas Ordinance (PDF)

22. What requirements apply within Critical Areas?: The Critical Areas Ordinance contains numerous requirements to help protect designated critical areas. The most prevalent include setback-and use- restrictions. Briefly, for wetlands, "buffer" setbacks can range from 25-200 feet, depending on the classification of the wetland; Fish and wildlife habitat requirements regulate uses within 1/4 mile of "point" locations (dens and nests) of priority species and require "buffers" ranging from 25-250 feet of riparian areas adjacent to flowing rivers and some creeks; Geo-hazard areas requirements regulate development on slopes of 30% or greater and Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas limit allowable uses within designated areas to help protect groundwater quality. Please contact the department for further information to determine if these Critical Areas could impact your project.

23. Where can I find information about minimum lot sizes in Spokane County?: Minimum lot sizes in Spokane County are dependent on the zoning of property and can range from 40 acres per dwelling unit to more than 15 dwelling units per acre depending upon the respective zoning designation. Generally speaking, minimum lot sizes outside the Urban Growth Area Boundary are 5 acres or larger and areas inside the Urban Growth Area Boundary can be as small as 5,000 square feet. Variables to minimum lot size may be achieved through cluster developments, but in no case does a cluster development result in more lots or density that that specified by the respective zoning designation. Minimum lot sizes and the development standards are found in the Spokane County Zoning Code (PDF).

24. What is Construction Stormwater Permit Coverage?: If your construction project cumulatively disturbs one or more acres of land through clearing, grading, excavating, or stockpiling of fill material, you may need construction Stormwater Permit Coverage from the Washington State Department of Ecology (DOE). This applies even if the project is being constructed in phases of less than one acre. Spokane County cannot determine whether Permit Coverage is necessary. It is your responsibility to apply for coverage. For more detailed information, call 360-407-6437 or visit their website.
visit their website.

25. How do I obtain a Food Establishment permit?

Visit the Spokane Regional Health District for Food Permits:

https://srhd.org/cards-permits-inspections

Food Establishment Permit page.

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Building & Planning - Code Enforcement

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1. How do I register a complaint?: With the exception of unsafe or dangerous buildings or structures, if you feel an alleged activity is appropriate for investigation by or Department, you must provide us with a signed complaint either by letter or on a completed form available from our office. Written complaints must include an address or other identification, owner's name (if known), and a complete description of your concern. You must include your name, address and phone number together with a request for confidentiality if you feel your personal safety or property would be endangered by disclosure of your identity. Anonymous or phone complaints can not be acted upon unless an immediate life safety issue is present.

2. What happens after a complaint is filed?: Once a complaint is received in our office it is reviewed for appropriateness and adequacy of information. Issues must be inside Spokane County and outside the city limits of Spokane or other incorporated areas. A quick background check is conducted. Inappropriate complaints are discarded, returned to the complainant or forwarded to the correct agency. A sequence of actions then occurs: The site is inspected, the complaint is verified and notification is then sent to the property owner. If the owner complies the complaint file is closed. If no compliance take place the complaint is then forwarded to the county prosecutors for legal action.

Initial action on a complaint will normally begin within 2 or 3 days. An inspection of the site will occur within 5 working days. Resolutions however, can take weeks, months and sometimes longer depending on the complexity and legal ramifications involved.

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Civil Court

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1. How do I make payments for court imposed obligations I owe?: Contact the Superior Court Clerk for the appropriate court for payment of fines at 509-477-2211. Clerk Page

2. Where do I go to post bond/bail?: Contact District Court, 1st Floor, Public Safety Building or the Superior Court Clerk, Room 300 of the Spokane County Courthouse, 509-477-2211.

3. How and where do I file a civil lawsuit under $100,000?: Contact either District Court at 509-477-4770, 2nd floor, Broadway Center Building or the Superior Court Clerk, Room 300 of the Spokane County Courthouse, 509-477-2211.

4. How/where do I file a civil lawsuit over $100,000?: Lawsuits with disputed dollar amounts over $100,000 should be filed with the Superior Court Clerk, Room 300 of the Spokane County Courthouse, 509-477-2211.
Clerk Page

5. How do I become an Arbitrator?: Minimum requirements: 5 years with the Washington State Bar Association and a minimum of three credits of Washington State Bar Association approved continuing legal education credits on the professional and ethical consideration for serving as an arbitrator.

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County Clerk / Clerk of the Superior Court

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1. Where is the County Clerk's Office (Clerk of the Superior Court) and what hours is it open?

The County Clerk's Office (Clerk of the Superior Court) is located in Room 300, County Courthouse at: 1116 W Broadway Avenue Spokane, WA 99201.

The office is open from 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except for legal holidays.

2. How do I get information about a case?: Please see the Getting Information About a Case page for complete information. Getting Information About a Case Page

3. Can I take a court file out of the Clerk's office to copy it?: The public may not remove a court file from the Clerk's Office. Files may be withdrawn to be taken to a courtroom or the Bar Association Office by the following persons on giving a written receipt: judges, court commissioners, deputy clerks, bailiffs, official court reporters, judicial assistants, court administrator's office, court facilitator staff, representatives from bail and/or bonding companies, attorneys, paralegals registered under LCR 54(e)(3), APR 9 legal interns, guardians ad litem and representatives of adoption agencies.

4. What does it cost to file a law suit in the Superior Court?: The filing fees for Superior Court matters are established by the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) and vary based on the type of case being filed. These fees are in accordance with RCW 36.18.016. Filing fees must be paid by cash, money order, cashiers check or an attorney trust account check. The Clerk does not accept debit or credit cards. For a listing of filing fees refer to the Clerk fees list.

5. Where do I file court documents?

Documents for Superior Court cases may be filed in person at the County Clerk's Office or by mailing them to:

Spokane County Clerk's Office

County Courthouse, Room 300

1116 W Broadway Avenue

Spokane WA 99260-0090

Be sure each document contains the Superior Court case number, full title of the case, and complies with court rules, form and pleading standards (GR 14, RCW 26.18.220). For fees and new cases, please see the

Filing Court Documents page.

6. How do I obtain copies of documents from a court file?: You can obtain copies of documents both in person and by mail. There are fees for this service. For full information, please see the Obtaining Copies of Documents page.

7. How do I do a court record search?: Visit the online portal: Spokane County Court Viewer for court date & case information searches
Court Record Search page.

8. Is there a way to file court documents online?

Yes. The Clerk's Office has been working diligently to provide the community with access to the justice system. The ability to eFile court documents is extremely important to these ends.

We have compiled an informational page and a separate Frequently Asked Questions page to assist you. You can access that here.

9. Why are some cases confidential or sealed?: Most Superior Court cases are open to the public. However, a matter may have been sealed by a court order or is a confidential matter by the type of case, such as an adoption. Rules governing confidential or sealed cases and documents are very specific as to who may or may not have access. If you have a question in this area, contact the Clerk's Office and you will be provided information regarding documents/cases that are restricted from access.

10. Do I need an attorney to do my legal work?: It is not required to obtain an attorney to file legal documents. However, if you should choose to proceed pro se (represent yourself) you will be held to the same standards by the court as an attorney. Find more information on the Attorney for Legal Work page.

11. How do I present my documents to the court?: You must present your documents to the court in person. You cannot have a family member or friend appear for you - only an attorney may represent another person in court. For full information, please see the Presenting Documents page.

12. What is the date, time and/or place of my court hearing?: Information regarding hearings in Superior Court is available by calling the County Clerk's Office at 509-477-2211 or the Superior Court Administrator at 509-477-5790. You can also access calendars on the Superior Court website and District Court website. Spokane County Courts

13. How and where do I set a court date?: A court date for a Superior Court case is set by filing the proper Calendar Note with the County Clerk's Office. Calendar Notes are a county specific form and you should be sure to use the Spokane County forms to ensure that you are scheduled on the proper calendar. If you have questions, you should contact the specific court coordinator at the Superior Court Administrator's Office or the assigned judge's Judicial Assistant or District Court. Spokane County Courts

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County Commissioners

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1. How do I review the County Code?: Information about the County Code and the Zoning Code is available online.

2. Where do I get information and/or copies of County resolutions?: Resolutions are available to the public through the Resolution Directory. Citizens are able to search by date, keyword or department. Should you have any difficulty the Clerk of the Board for the Board of County Commissioners can provide you with information about resolutions that have been passed by the board. The Spokane County Clerk of the Board may be reached at 509-477-2265 or via email. Contact the Board of Commissioners

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County Employment

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1. How do I find out about County employment opportunities?: Spokane County now uses NEOGOV as an online hiring system that allows applicants to create a user account/profile, apply for current job opportunities and check the status of their candidacy all online! Current Openings Page

2. Will all Spokane County positions be posted using NEOGOV?: Yes, as of March 31, 2014, all of the job openings are using NEOGOV.

3. Where do I begin?: Everything starts at our Spokane County Human Resources page. There you will find a link to Employment Opportunities (non-Civil Service) and Employment Opportunities (Civil Service - Sheriff's Office). Clicking on one of these links takes you to a list of current job openings. Employment Page

4. How do I register on NEOGOV to submit an application?: If you haven't yet registered, go to the links above and select "create an account." Fill in the blanks and follow the instructions to set up your user account. It takes very little time. Above all, remember to keep a record of your username and password once you have set up an account. You will use the same "username" and "password" each time you apply for other positions or check the status of your application.

5. An email address is required to complete the online application form. What if I don’t have an email account?: If you do not already have an email address, free email is available through a number of providers. Though we cannot endorse any particular vendor, you may want to click on these links for more information: Yahoo, and Gmail or search for other free email sources.

6. What if I don't have computer / Internet access?: There are a number of ways to apply online for Spokane County jobs: you may use the public computers located at most libraries, Worksource Spokane, family and friends may also have internet access available for your use, and there are computers available in our Human Resources lobby. We are located at 824 N Adams, Spokane, Washington. The entrance to our building is on the east side. Our office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

7. What if the online application requires an electronic document attachment such as a resume, cover letter, writing sample or drivers abstract and I only have a paper copy?: These documents, if not already on your computer, need to be scanned in and saved. Most public libraries in Spokane County have scanning capability for public use. Also, check with your local UPS store or print shop to see if they offer this service for a small fee. Note: The Human Resources and Civil Service departments are not able to scan documents for you.

8. Can I apply for a Spokane County job by e-mail?: No. The Spokane County recruitment process is fully automated. Applicants must login to the Spokane County page to apply for Spokane County government positions. Applications submitted via postal mail, email, fax or hand-delivered will not be accepted. Employment Page

9. Can I apply with a resume instead of an application form?: No. A resume will not be accepted instead of an application form. A resume may be attached to our required online application form, if requested; however, it may not be used as a substitute for completing any part of our application package.

10. Can I apply for more than one job?: Yes. You can apply for each position for which you are interested and for which you think you are qualified. With NEOGOV, once your application is created, you can apply it to any job opening.

11. What is the deadline date to apply for a job?: Each position will be posted with a specific deadline date to apply or as an "open continuous" process. For those with a specific date, applications must be submitted no later than 11:59 p.m. on that deadline date. Applications will not be accepted after the deadline date. If the position you are applying for is open continuous, you may submit your application any time.

12. Can I add additional information to my application after the deadline date?: No. Changes can only be made to your application prior to the deadline date.

13. How will I know whether I am being considered for the job?: Once you have created a username and password under the Application Login section and have applied for a position through Spokane County Human Resources’ website, you should login periodically to check your application status. The department that is doing the hiring may also use NEOGOV to inform you about your interview if and when that may occur. Employment Page

14. How do I get help registering with NEOGOV?: Spokane County is committed to ensuring that this process is easy and user-friendly. To help applicants, see the NEOGOV Help page.

15. How do I access my online account once it has been established?: Once you have established your account, you may access your account by clicking "Applicant Login" located on the Spokane County Human Resources or Civil Service job opportunities page anytime and whenever you have internet access. You may check the status of your applications(s), update your applications(s), or create a new application, and view all jobs for which you have applied.

16. Who do I contact if I have issues accessing my online account?: If you are having issues with your login or have forgotten your password, use the 'forgot my password' link that is directly below the username/password login box on the Applicant Login page. The system will generate an email with that information. Please be sure to check your spam/junk mail folders and also add info@governmentjobs.com and info@neogov.com to your 'safe sender' list. If you still do not receive the email notice, then contact NEOGOV Customer Support toll free at 888-NEOGOV1 and follow the prompts for 'applicant' assistance. Applicant Login Page

17. When is the Employment Opportunities list updated? I don't want to miss my chance to apply.: The list may be updated every business day. Seasonal and temporary jobs may have shorter recruitment periods and can open and close at any time. If you check your own email frequently, set up a 'Job Interest Card.' noting which specific job categories are of interest to you. Each time a job opens in a selected category, you will receive email notification.

18. Can I apply for a job that isn't advertised now?: No. We are only able to process application information submitted in response to a specific advertised vacancy. If you wish to receive email notification when a job you are interested in becomes available, sign up for the 'Job Interest Card' service.

19. Can I apply for a job shown under "County Employees Only"?: Only current Spokane County Government employees in specified bargaining units, as noted on the posting, may apply for "County Employees Only" jobs.

20. Is Civil Service using NEOGOV for their recruitments?: Yes. Therefore, any employee wanting to apply for a Civil Service position will need to create a NEOGOV account and apply using that tool.

21. What are "Civil Service" opportunities?: All classified jobs in our Sheriff's office fall under Civil Service rules. The Civil Service rules may be found on the Current Openings page.

22. Why are some positions "Civil Service" positions?: The Spokane County Civil Service hiring process is guided by RCW 41.14 which "establishes a merit system of employment for county deputy sheriffs and other employees of the Office of County Sheriff, thereby raising the standards and efficiency of such offices and law enforcement in general."

23. What is the typical testing process for "Civil Service" positions?: All Sheriff Office positions will have examinations in written and/or oral format, and, when appropriate, include physical and practical tests. Applicants who receive a passing grade of 70% or better will be placed on an eligibility list. Those who have a bachelor's degree (any subject) or a 2-year degree in a program related to the position will receive 2 additional points to their passing grade. Veteran's preference points are awarded according to RCW 41.04.010. Documentation is required to receive these additional points.

24. How important is the integrity interview?: Integrity interviews will be held according to the candidate's position on the eligible list. The Sheriff's Office has a high standard of acceptable behavior. It is possible for candidates to be removed from the eligibility list based upon information received during an integrity interview and subsequent background investigations.

25. What if I have the highest score on a Civil Service test?: The Sheriff’s Office follows a selection rule of 5 for all entry-level positions. This means the Sheriff can select anyone from the top 5 candidates for 1 position.

26. Our contract requires that we sign the bottom of the posted job vacancy notice. Will this change?: No. You will continue to follow the contract language and sign the bottom of the department's posting.

27. Our contract requires that we complete the Spokane County application to apply for a position. Will the paper application be available to use?: No. You will need to use NEOGOV, create an account, complete your application (once) and then submit your application for each and every posting. Employment Page

28. Human Resources faxes out individual postings for the various bargaining units to various County office locations. Will this continue?: Not entirely. Human Resources will no longer send out individual posting notices. Instead, we will send out a list of all openings, including those in each bargaining unit, to various County office locations. That list will identify individual job openings and the bargaining unit in which that position belongs. We will not send individual postings. Departments will have the responsibility to post that list in the usual visible locations. Employees can also look on the Human Resources page for a list of all current job opportunities at any time, day or night. Employment Page

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County Sheriff

Show All Answers

1. Where do I get information about abandoned vehicles in the County?: To report an abandoned vehicle in the County or to get information about an abandoned vehicle, please contact the Spokane County Sheriff. Contact the Sheriff's Office

2. Where do I get information about the bicycle safety program for 3rd through 8th graders?: The Public Relations office of the Spokane County Sheriff can provide you with information about bicycle safety programs. Sheriff's Office Page

3. Where do I get information about, or report bicycles that were lost or stolen?: The Sheriff /Police Property Room at 1308 West Gardner (509-625-1430) should be contacted.

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Crime Check

Show All Answers

1. Where do I report a juvenile runaway?: Call Crime Check anytime to do a report over the phone. When the runaway returns call back to cancel the report.

2. Why does a Crime Check call receiver take my report by phone?: The Police Department and the Sheriff's Office contract with Crime Check to write some types of police reports.

3. Why can't 911/Crime Check call receivers tell me if someone has a warrant?: 911/ Crime Check call receivers are not authorized to give out warrant information over the phone. Call receivers can take the information on who you believe has the warrant, where the suspect currently is, and pass it on to police and sheriff's dispatchers for whatever action is appropriate.

4. Is making a report the same as "pressing charges"?: When you make a police report, you indicate to law enforcement that you want to press charges for the crime. Charges are "pressed" when sufficient evidence exists for the prosecutor to file the charge. Not all reports will conclude with charges being pressed.

5. What information would be helpful to gather (if possible) before calling to make my police report?: When you call to make a police report, the call receiver you speak to will try to get as much information as possible to give investigators a greater chance for follow-up. View more information on the Making a Report page.

6. How do I add information to my report?: You may contact Crime Check anytime at 509-456-2233, however call volume is usually highest between 3 and 9 p.m. Monday through Friday. Calls are answered in the order received.

7. What happens with my report now?: Whether you e-filed or phoned in your report information, once a report number has been assigned it is:
- Reviewed for completeness by the on-duty supervisor.
- Sent to the Records Department.
- Sent to Case-Screening where reports are evaluated for follow-up.

8. Are 911/Crime Check call receivers Law Enforcement?: No, call receivers are civilian employees of Spokane County.

9. Can 911/Crime Check call receivers give legal advice?: No, call receivers are not allowed to give legal advice. In some situations you might be told that your situation seems civil (vs. criminal) and it will be suggested that you seek legal advice.

10. Who else might I notify about the loss or theft of personal information, such as a driver’s license, Social Security card, checks, and credit or debit cards?: Learn more on our Personal Information Theft page.

11. How do I get a copy of my police report?: Requests may be faxed, mailed or emailed to the SPD Records office.

Mail to:
Records Department
PSB-1, 1116 W Broadway Ave.
Spokane, WA. 99260-0001
Fax Number: 509-625-4059

- Include enough information for the report to be located such as:
- Date, time and location of the incident.
- What type of report it is.
- Report number, if known.

Reports cannot be faxed to you. You must include your address and a phone number to reach you when it’s ready to be picked up.

Spokane City Police Records Website

12. Who should I call to check on the status of a previously filed police report?: Please allow a minimum of two-three business days for the report processing to be completed. Read more on the Follow Up page.

13. What is the appropriate number to call to make a complaint about a Law Enforcement officer?: - Spokane Police Officers, service, or Dispatchers:
- Front desk on-duty supervisor or the shift commander at 509-625-4100.
- -or-
- The Spokane Police Ombudsman at 509-625-6742.
- Sheriff’s Deputies, service, or Dispatchers:
- Call the Front desk on-duty supervisor at 509-477-2240.
- 911/Crime Check call receivers:
- Crime Check on-duty supervisor at 509-456-2233.

14. Who can I call/where can I look for information about drug/suspicious activity?: Review our Making a Report section for more information.

15. Why can’t 911 call receivers give an "ETA" (estimated time of arrival) when I request police/fire/medical response?: 911 call receivers do not dispatch the calls for service and cannot guarantee a response. They relay your information to dispatchers. It is very important that you call 911 back if your situation changes so they can update the information to the dispatchers. Dispatchers need current information to determine appropriate response. Do not call only to ask when officers will arrive.

16. How do I get a copy of a 9-1-1/Crime Check recordings?: Call Administration 509-532-8911 to request information on access to 9-1-1/Crime Check recordings or follow the directions on the Spokane 911 website.

17. How do I get a copy of my traffic collision/accident report?: Call the Records Department at 509-625-4030.

18. Where can I get a Washington State Accident Reporting Form?

There are several locations, including, the Washington State Patrol office and website, the lobby of the Public Safety building, a staffed COPS/SCOPE station, or a staffed fire station as well as some public libraries.

Washington State Patrol Website

19. When is 9-1-1 the appropriate agency to call for animal/pet emergencies?: - If your animal/pet’s emergency is due to a crime being committed. For instance, your neighbor shot your pet/animal within the last 15 minutes or your neighbor is still actively endangering you or your pet. If this is not the case, then call the animal agency that handles your area to make a report during their regular business hours. (See phone list for numbers for Spokanimal and SCRAPS).
- The animal/pet endangers the public. Such as a dog on the freeway that continues to be a traffic hazard.
- The animal/pet continues to endanger itself. Such as a horse with a broken leg loose on a roadway.

If the injury/illness isn’t due to circumstances like those listed above, please contact a vet or rescue shelter. After hours, or a day your vet isn’t open - you will need to contact a Pet Emergency clinic to get help for your animal/pet.

20. Where can I get crime statistics for a neighborhood?: View the resources on the Crime Check page.

21. Does Spokane County have a Noise Ordinance?: Spokane County has adopted an ordinance regulating noise disturbances in the unincorporated areas of Spokane County. The Spokane County Noise Disturbance Ordinance can be found in Chapter 6.12 of the Spokane County Code. Read more about Noise Disturbances in Spokane County on the Crime Check page.

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Detention Services Project

Show All Answers

1. Can the Community Correction Center be built without replacing Geiger?: The Community Correction Center is a vital part of our comprehensive approach to Spokane County's criminal justice system, but it is not the only aspect. Ensuring public safety not only requires that those who can benefit from recidivism reducing programs can access them but also means that there must be enough space in the jail for those who don't qualify for the programs and must serve their sentence.

2. Have partnerships for a regional facility been considered with other jurisdictions such as the State of Washington, the federal government or neighboring counties including Kootenai County, Idaho?: Sharing costs with other agencies to create a safe and modern detention facility and community corrections system is an excellent idea and one that we vigorously pursued. This included exploring cooperative partnerships with the State of Washington’s Airway Heights Correctional Facility, reaching out to the U.S. Marshal’s service and discussing whether surrounding counties in Washington and Idaho would be interested in partnering on the project. For a variety of reasons all jurisdictions declined to participate.

3. How much will this cost?: The project costs have been reduced by some $54 million from original estimates. However, the Sheriff and the Commissioners will continue working to reduce these numbers to ensure that the public’s safety dollars are spent in the best and efficient way possible. For full information, please see the Project Cost page.

4. The number of inmates housed at the Spokane County Jail and the Geiger Corrections Center has recently decreased. Does this mean that Geiger no longer has to be replaced?: The decline in the number of inmates in both the Spokane County Jail and the Geiger Correctional Center is good news. But this seems to be a short term situation as the numbers have resumed climbing. We know that the Spokane County Jail has been overcrowded since the mid-1990s and remains overcrowded today. The jail was built to hold 472 inmates; its average daily population over the past 15 years has been 644 people. Geiger Correction Center serves as an overflow facility but is limited to lower risk inmates. This means little pressure is taken off the main jail because only a select few offenders can be safely housed at Geiger. And because arrests have also increased over the past two years it's clear that Geiger still must be replaced to ensure that enough space is available in the existing jail to hold accountable those who do not qualify for community corrections programs.

5. What is the Community Corrections Center?: The Community Corrections Center will house several comprehensive programs designed to reduce the number of people returning to jail. The Center itself will be located on the County Campus because of its easy access to transportation and other necessary services. For more information, please see the Community Corrections Center page.

6. What is this project?: The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office began developing a comprehensive capital improvement and management plan when Spokane International Airport announced that the Geiger Correctional Center’s lease would not be renewed upon its 2013 expiration. Among the goals of this plan are a new corrections facility that absorbs the future lost bed space at Geiger, reduces overcrowding in the current Spokane County Jail and improves inmate and public safety. A key component of this project is an innovative and sustainable Community Corrections Center to house existing and future programs designed to equip offenders with the necessary life skills to help them become productive citizens and avoid returning to jail.

7. When will we vote on this proposal?: Spokane County residents will decide when this issue will be placed on the ballot. A vote could come as soon as 2012.

8. Why must the Geiger Corrections Center be replaced?: Geiger is an outdated, expensive and inefficient detention center that was not designed for its current use. A safe and modern replacement for the former WWII era Army barracks will ensure that all local, state and federal standards are met; staff and inmate safety will also be paramount.

9. Why not remodel Geiger Corrections Facility instead?: The Geiger Correction Center building is in such as state that it would have to be razed rather than remodeled; the amount of land available at the current site is not enough to accommodate the safe and modern detention facility that is required. Geiger location on property leased from Spokane International Airport is also of concern. The SIA Board of Directors’ says a correctional facility is incompatible with the airport’s long term goals and has chosen not extend the current lease beyond the 2013 expiration. The Spokane County Board of Commissioners and the Spokane County Sheriff’s office agree with that decision. The SIA board is working with Spokane County to ensure that Geiger remains open if movement toward replacing the aging detention center continues.

10. Why was the property near the Medical Lake Interchange along I-90 chosen to build a replacement for the Geiger Corrections Facility?: Spokane County conducted two lengthy and comprehensive studies to determine the best place to site a replacement structure for Geiger and the Community Correction Center. The West Plains site just off the Medical Lake Interchange was chosen because it best meets the requirements for a safe and modern detention center. Expandability, flexibility and cost are also critical requirements. The 40-acre parcel chosen for this portion of the project is just a few minutes from Downtown Spokane, will support the necessary infrastructure and has access to public transportation. Building on the site will save some $54 million over a County Campus location - a much better use of the taxpayers’ investment.

11. Why will the Community Corrections Center be housed downtown rather than on the West Plains?: The people who qualify for any of the 7 Community Corrections program now operated by the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office are selected after they’ve demonstrated their willingness to participate, ability to learn and likelihood of success. That means that a convenient, easily accessible and well designed building should be placed near where the participants reside. In most cases this is in Spokane. The downtown Spokane County campus is an urban location with good public transit, parking and access to other services and agencies and is the best choice for the Community Corrections Center.

12. Will the Community Correction Center house sex offenders?: No.

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District Court

Show All Answers

1. Where do I apply for a Public Defender ?: Office of Pre-trial Services
1116 W Broadway
1st Floor Annex
Spokane , WA 99260
Phone: 509-477-3960

2. When do I have to reapply for a public defender?: *Apply for a public Defender for each case you are requesting to be represented by a public defender.
*When a violation of your sentence has occurred and you are requested to appear at a court hearing that you are wanting to be represented by a public defender.

3. How to set a Bench Warrant Recall Hearing?: The Process of setting a Bench Warrant Recall includes you or your attorney to appear at the District Clerks Window's 7, 8, or 9 requesting a bench warrant recall be set for the cases in Bench Warrant Status.
** The Bench Warrant will still be active until you appear at the court date given by the Court Clerks. At the hearing date the Judge will then make the decision to quash the Bench Warrant.**

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Doris Morrison Learning Center

Show All Answers

1. When is the DMLC open to the public?: We still have a few items (e.g., landscaping, paving, irrigation) that need to be completed before we can open to the public. We look forward to seeing you soon!

2. Can I volunteer at the DMLC?: Absolutely! If you are interested in volunteering, please fill out our interest form. When opportunities for volunteering become available, we will reach out to you. We appreciate everyone’s help in making this learning center successful and beneficial to the community.

3. Can I sign my class up for a field trip to the DMLC?: We are excited to offer field trips beginning in the 2023-2024 school year! We are currently planning a 5^th grade field trip program in partnership with Central Valley School District and East Valley School District where every 5^th grade class will visit the center either in the spring or the fall, and teachers will also get training on how to use the center. Outside of this program, any field trip openings we have will be offered on a first come, first served basis. If you have a group that would like to plan a field trip for the DMLC, please contact us at wrc@spokanecounty.org.

4. Can I host meetings at the DMLC?: The DMLC is not currently available for meetings. We are working on a system to allow organizations to rent the DMLC for public meetings and expect to have it operational in the fall of 2023. Please check back in the fall for more information!

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E-Deferral Help

Show All Answers

1. Where is my ticket number?: View the link below for a picture pointing out the location of the ticket number on your ticket.

Ticket Number Help (PDF)

2. Am I eligible for E-Deferral?

To be eligible for E-Deferral, you must meet the following criteria:

- You must have responded to your traffic ticket within 15 days of the violation date, either by mail or in person.

- You have not received a Deferral or Deferred Finding in the past 7 years from any court in the State of Washington, moving or non-moving, depending on the charge that you are requesting be Deferred.

- You do not possess a Commercial Drivers License (CDL).

Please keep in mind that even if you have met the above listed criteria to apply for the Deferral Program your entry into the program is a discretionary decision that will be made by the Judicial Officer.

3. Are there conditions for an E-Deferral?: If you are granted entry to the Deferral Program, the conditions of your Deferral may be, but are not limited to, the following
- A non-refundable Administrative Fee of $150, imposed at the Judge's discretion, is due within a time decided by the Judge.:
- The Length of the Deferral may be imposed up to one year.
- Any new traffic violations may be cause for the revocation of the Deferral.
- Traffic School may be imposed at your expense, and you must provide proof of successful completion to the court.

For More Information on E-Deferral Click Here

4. How do I apply for a Deferral?: You have three options to apply or request entry into the Deferral Program:
- In Person at the District Court Clerk’s Office - you must respond within 15 days of the violation date.
- At your Court Hearing - You may make your request to apply for the Deferral Program at your Court Hearing.
Click here To Apply Online

5. Where can I get more information about Deferrals?: For more information, please contact 509-477-4770 and select Option One.

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E-Mitigation Help

Show All Answers

1. Where is my ticket number?: View the link below for a picture pointing out the location of the ticket number on your ticket.

Ticket Number Help (PDF)

2. Am I eligible for E-Mitigation?: To be eligible for E-Mitigation you must meet the following criteria:
- You must have already received a hearing date from Spokane County District Court.
- Your hearing date is at least 7 business days from today.
- Your violation does not require submission of documents (i.e. proof of insurance, proof of disabled placard/ID card, etc.).

The following violations cannot be reduced:
- Speeding in a school zone or playground
- Speeding in a construction zone
- Driving without proof of liability insurance
- No valid operator's license, 2nd degree
- Handicap parking violations

To see if you qualify for a reduction for a ticket issued within Spokane County, contact Spokane County District Court at 509-477-4770, ext. 5.

3. What is Mitigation?: Ticket Mitigation is when you admit to committing the violation(s) but would like to be considered for a reduction in fines. During this process you may comment on your side of the story. You understand that this ticket can appear on your driving record if "Traffic" is checked on the front. Parking tickets are civil infractions which do not appear on your driving record.

4. How do I set a hearing date?: A hearing date is obtained when you mark the hearing option on the back of your ticket, sign, and return the paper to the court, either via mail or in person.

5. How much will my ticket be reduced?: The following are example reductions if you qualify for a reduction under Mitigation Guidelines:

- $113 reduced to $95
- $124 reduced to $100
- $216 reduced to $175
- $224 reduced to $180
- $550 reduced to $440

6. How can I get more information about mitigation?: For more information, please contact the District Court at 509-477-4770, ext. 5.

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Elections

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1. Where do I get information about registering to vote?: The Elections Division of the Spokane County Auditor's Office can assist you with registering to vote, upcoming election information, results from recent elections, upcoming issues on the ballot, candidate filings, etc. Please contact them for more information. Elections Division Page

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Emergency Management - ALERT Spokane

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1. What is ALERT SPOKANE and why is it important to me?: ALERT SPOKANE is an emergency notification service that allows emergency officials to notify residents and businesses by telephone, cell phone, text message, email and social media regarding time-sensitive general and emergency notifications. Only authorized officials have access to the ALERT SPOKANE system.

2. When will ALERT SPOKANE be used?: Any message regarding the safety, property or welfare of the community may be disseminated using the ALERT SPOKANE system. These may include boil water advisories, evacuation notices, or missing persons.

3. Does the ALERT SPOKANE system replace other systems that have been used to provide time-sensitive information to residents?: This system is an enhancement to existing means of communication and is meant to supplement current or past systems used for mass notification.

4. Does the ALERT SPOKANE system already have my telephone number, or do I need to sign up to receive ALERT SPOKANE notifications?: The ALERT SPOKANE database contains information received from public databases, including regional phonebooks. However, no resident should assume that their information is in the system. The home page of the Alert Spokane website, www.alertspokane.com, has a link to the ALERT SPOKANE Community Notification Enrollment page where you can register online. If you cannot register online, you can download and use the CodeRED Mobile App on iTunes or Google Play. ALERT Spokane

5. I have a business located in Spokane County. Can I arrange to have ALERT SPOKANE contact my business?: Yes. Fill out the ALERT SPOKANE registration form but be sure to select the “This address is a business” option. Please note that emergency calls can only be delivered to a direct dial number. Automated attendants will disrupt the process and the calls will not be delivered. Businesses should register their main number and establish a procedure for distributing the ALERT SPOKANE message to their workforce.

6. What if I want to register additional numbers for my address?: After you submit the initial registration form, you may start the registration process again and submit more numbers for the same address.

7. Is my personal information protected?: ALERT SPOKANE is a service of Network Emergency Communications, which takes security and privacy concerns very seriously. They will not sell, trade, lease or loan any data citizen supplied data to third parties. Personal information is also protected by Washington State law.

8. How will I recognize an ALERT SPOKANE message?: An ALERT SPOKANE Emergency message will have a caller ID of 866-419-5000. We suggest you program this number in your cell phone as a “new contact” and use “ALERT SPOKANE Emergency” as the contact name. If you need to replay the emergency notification message again, simply dial the number and you will be able to hear the message again.

9. What should I do if I receive an ALERT SPOKANE message?: Listen carefully to the entire message. You will have the option to repeat the message by pressing any key. Do not call 911 for further information unless directed to do so or if you need immediate aid from the Police or Fire department.

10. I have a cordless phone, and it does not work when the power goes out. How will the system be able to contact me?: Make sure you have at least one working corded telephone – and be sure to turn the ringer on. The ALERT SPOKANE sign-up form allows you to indicate both a primary and alternate phone number. Cell phone and/or work phone numbers can be entered as alternate phone numbers. Both primary and alternate phone numbers will be contacted when a notification is sent.

11. Will the ALERT SPOKANE system leave a message on an answering machine?: Yes, the ALERT SPOKANE system will leave a message on a machine or on voicemail. The ALERT SPOKANE system will leave the entire message in one pass.

12. What happens if the line is busy?: If the line is busy, ALERT SPOKANE will try two more times to connect.

13. What circumstances might prevent a message from being delivered to me?: • If your contact information has changed and you have not registered your new information.
• If you have only cordless phones in your residence, the power is out and you did not register an alternate phone number.
• If your line is busy for an extended time and your calls do not forward to voicemail or an answering machine.
• If you have a privacy manager on your main phone and you did not register an alternate phone number.

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Emergency Management - Emergency Alert System

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1. How does the EAS work?: An EAS alert is based on an audio protocol defined in the FCC’s rules. In the EAS, an alert originator at the local, state, or national level inputs an EAS alert into the system using specific encoding equipment. Specially designated stations then broadcast this alert to the public in their listening areas.

Other EAS Participants (television and other radio broadcasters, cable and wire line video service providers, radio and television satellite service providers, and others) monitor the specially-designated stations for EAS alerts. When these other EAS Participants receive the EAS alert, they, in turn, broadcast it to the public in their listening areas. This group of EAS Participants may be monitored by other EAS Participants too far away to receive the EAS message from the first group of transmitting broadcasters. This next group of EAS Participants, in turn, broadcasts the alert to the public in the vicinity of their stations, as well as to any other stations that may be monitoring them.

2. When is the EAS used? When would a national EAS alert be sent?: The EAS alerting architecture is frequently used by state and local emergency managers to send alerts to the public about emergencies and weather events. While the requirements for carrying a national-level EAS alert differ in some respects from state and local alerts, the national EAS test will test the underlying architecture that also supports state and local alerting. Ensuring that the EAS architecture functions properly will benefit emergency alerting at all levels of government.

The EAS provides the ability to send messages regionally or nationally, though it has never been activated at these levels. But a major disaster like an earthquake or tsunami could necessitate the use of the EAS on a regional or national basis to send life-saving information to the public. We cannot anticipate which communications infrastructure will withstand a particular disaster, but the EAS is one of the tools we have to send alerts, warnings, and information to the American people. The national EAS test will help us improve its capabilities should it ever be needed at the regional or national level in an actual emergency.

3. Why do we need a nationwide test of the EAS?: Pursuant to the FCC’s rules, local and state components of the EAS are tested on a weekly and monthly basis, respectively. Although the EAS has been in existence for over 15 years, there has never been an end-to-end, nationwide test of the system, and we need to know that the system will work as intended should public safety officials ever need to send an alert or warning to a large region of the United States. Only a top-down, simultaneous test of all components of the EAS can provide an appropriate diagnosis of system-wide performance.

4. How will the national EAS test be conducted?: The national EAS test will be conducted jointly by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) through its Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Weather Service (NWS), the three federal agencies that have EAS management responsibilities. FEMA is the arm of the DHS primarily responsible for developing national alert and warning functions. The FCC is an independent agency that grants licenses to or otherwise oversees EAS Participants. FCC rules regulate the transmission of EAS alerts. The NWS is a key player in the dissemination of local warnings via the EAS. The great majority of EAS alerts are NWS weather-related alerts.

On November 9, at 2 p.m. EST, FEMA will transmit the EAS code for national level emergencies to Primary Entry Point (PEP) stations in the national level of the EAS. The PEP stations will then rebroadcast the alert to the general public in their broadcast vicinity, as well as to the next level of EAS Participants monitoring them. This should continue through all levels of the system, until the national alert has been distributed throughout the entire country.

Pursuant to the FCC’s rules, all EAS Participants must report back to the FCC on the results of this test, including whether, and from whom, they received the alert message and whether they rebroadcast it. FEMA and the FCC will study these results to determine if there are problems with the system and, if so, how best to remedy them. We anticipate that a national test will be conducted periodically to ensure that the EAS is, and remains, functional.

FEMA and the FCC have already twice tested the EAS national code on a more limited basis, in the state of Alaska. The lessons learned from the Alaska tests will inform how the agencies conduct the national test.

5. What will people hear and see during the test?: During the test, viewers will hear a message indicating that “This is a test.” Although the National EAS Test may resemble the periodic, monthly EAS tests that most Americans are already familiar with, there will be some differences in what viewers will see and hear, which is one reason for conducting a national EAS test. The audio message will be the same for all EAS Participants; however, due to limitations in the EAS, the video test message scroll may not be the same or indicate that “This is a test.” This is due to the use of a “live” national code - the same code that would be used in an actual emergency.

In addition, the background image that appears on video screens during an alert may indicate that “This is a test,” but in some instances there might not be an image at all. FEMA and the FCC plan to conduct outreach to organizations representing people with hearing disabilities to prepare that community for the national EAS test. Outreach will include specific information tailored to the needs of those with hearing disabilities that will be readily available at online sites.

In addition, FEMA and the FCC will work with EAS Participants to explore whether there are solutions to address this limitation. The text at the bottom of the television screen may indicate that an “Emergency Alert Notification has been issued.” This notification is used to disseminate a national alert and in this case, the test.

6. How long will the test last?: We anticipate that the test will last approximately 30 seconds. While state and local EAS messages are limited to two minutes, there is no time limit for national EAS alerts. To evaluate whether the system properly interprets the national message code in the national EAS test, the message duration must be longer than two minutes.

7. What is the source of FEMA’s and the FCC’s authority for conducting the national EAS test?: Pursuant to the FCC’s rules, EAS Participants must take part in nationwide tests of the EAS. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which administers the EAS, has the authority to ensure the conduct of training, tests, and exercises of the EAS by Executive Order.

8. Are broadcasters and other EAS Participants ready for the test? What if their equipment does not function properly?: While EAS tests may be disruptive, they are important to ensure that the EAS is functional and that EAS Participants are prepared to issue alerts, and it is our intent to minimize disruption and confusion to the extent possible. The November 9 date is near the end of hurricane season and before the severe winter weather season begins in earnest. The 2 p.m. EST broadcast time will minimize disruption during rush hours, while ensuring that the test occurs during working hours across the United States.

FEMA and the FCC will work with EAS Participants to prepare for the national test and provide technical assistance and best practices with respect to equipment configuration. We expect that all EAS Participants will participate in the national test and that they will have equipment in place to conduct the national EAS test that they already test regularly pursuant to the FCC’s rules governing required weekly and monthly EAS tests. We would therefore expect such equipment to be in good working order.

9. Where does media communications-based alerting fit within the development of next generation alerting systems like PLAN and the availability of social networking sites as tools for emergency alerting?: Because we cannot anticipate what systems might be affected by an emergency, it is important to have a redundant, multi-platform alerting system. The EAS is designed to work when other methods of disseminating emergency alerts are unavailable. While there is no guarantee that any form of communications will withstand major disasters, various elements of the EAS are hardened to withstand such calamities. Moreover, the EAS uses technology that is widely accessible to the public. Almost everyone has access to a radio (for example, in a car or via a battery-powered handheld device) and/or a television receiver.

While our ultimate goal is to have an integrated public alert and warning system that will use multiple communications technologies, the EAS will serve as a primary method for transmitting national emergency alerts and warnings for the foreseeable future.

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Emergency Management - Mitigation Plan

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1. What is the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000?: The federal Disaster Mitigation Act (DMA) of 2000 (Public Law 106-390), commonly known as the 2000 Stafford Act amendments, was approved by Congress on October 10, 2000. This act required state and local governments to develop hazard mitigation plans as a condition for federal grant assistance. Among other things, this legislation reinforces the importance of pre-disaster infrastructure mitigation planning to reduce disaster losses nationwide. DMA 2000 is aimed primarily at the control and streamlining of the administration of federal disaster relief and programs to promote mitigation activities. Prior to 2000, federal legislation provided funding for disaster relief, recovery, and some hazard mitigation planning. The DMA improves upon the planning process by emphasizing the importance of communities planning for disasters before they occur.

2. What is a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan?: A Local Hazard mitigation Plan is prepared by local governments in response to the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (Public Law 106-390). These plans act as a key way to federal funding afforded under the Robert T. Stafford Act. These plans meet statutory requirements that include:

- Organizing resources
- Assessing Risk
- Engaging the public
- Identifying Goals and Objectives
- Identifying actions
- Developing plan maintenance and implementation strategies

3. What is meant by "mitigation"?: Hazard mitigation is any sustained action taken to permanently eliminate or reduce long-term risks to human life and property from natural hazards. Sustained action means an action that is long term in its impact. This is an essential component of emergency management, along with preparedness, response, and recovery. Disasters can have significant impacts on communities. They can destroy or damage life, property and infrastructure, local economies, and the environment.

4. Who was involved?: The Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 has defined a “local government” as:

- Any county, municipality, city, town, public authority, school district, special district, intrastate district, council of governments (regardless of whether the council of governments is incorporated as a nonprofit corporation under State law), regional or interstate government entity, or agency or instrumentality of a local government

- Any Indian tribe or authorized tribal organization, or Alaska Native village or organization

- Any rural community, unincorporated town or village, or other public entity Any local government wishing to pursue funding afforded under FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Programs must have an approved hazard mitigation plan in order to be eligible to apply for these funds.

5. What is a Steering Committee?: A committee made up of elected stakeholder representatives from within the planning area will oversee this plan update process. This committee makeup includes the following representation:

- Citizens
- Academia
- State Emergency Management
- County Emergency Management
- Municipal planning partners
- Special District planning partners
- Business interests

The Steering Committee will meet regularly throughout this process and provide direction and guidance to the planning team on implementation of the scope of work for this process. The Steering Committee will determine the goals and objectives for the plan, the public involvement strategy, review the risk assessment, and provide input to the planning team on the assembly of the plan. All Steering Committee meetings are open to the public and the dates and times of these meeting are posted on the Hazard Mitigation Plan website.

6. What hazards does it address?: This plan will address the natural hazards of concern that could impact the Spokane County planning area, as well as a number of man-made and technological hazards of concern. This may include hazards such as:

- Dam Failure
- Earthquake
- Flood
- Landslide (Mass movements)
- Severe Weather
- Wildfire
- Cybersecurity
- Terrorism
- Hazmat

This plan will not address all non-natural or human caused hazards. It should also be noted that there are many secondary hazards that are directly attributable to these primary hazards that will be addressed by the plan as part of the analysis of the primary hazard of concern.

7. Will Global Warming or Climate Change be addressed in the Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan?: Yes. Climate change will not be viewed as a stand-alone hazard in this plan. But there will be detailed discussion of the potential impact of climate change on all six hazards of concern.

8. Does the State of Washington have a State Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan?: Yes. The State of Washington is also required to respond to the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000. In fact, if the state does not have a plan, no local governments within the state are eligible for any of the programs these plan’s act as the key way to. By law, the local plans are to be consistent with the recommendations of the state plan.

9. How does it affect me?: As a citizen within a participating jurisdiction, you will be able to reap the benefits of the risk reduction actions identified by your local government. Sometimes these can be a direct impact to your property in the form of reduced insurance premiums and reduced risk if you live in a high hazard area. Most of the time, these benefits are secondary. By reducing risk exposure, your local government does not have to expend as many resources on preparedness, response, or recovery from the impacts of natural hazards.

10. How will it affect my community?: By participating in this planning effort and adopting the updated plan, your community will be eligible to pursue funding under any of the five FEMA hazard mitigation grant programs, as well as potential other grant opportunities. These programs provide millions of dollars worth of grant funding annually for risk reduction measures identified in these plans.

It should be noted that not all eligible local governments within the Spokane County planning area will be participating in this planning effort. You are encouraged to contact your community officials to determine your community’s eligibility under these programs. Additionally, if your community participates in FEMA’s Community Rating System (CRS) program, this plan may have direct impact on reducing the cost of flood insurance within your community.

11. What is the Community Rating System?: The National Flood Insurance Program's (NFIP) Community Rating System (CRS) is a voluntary incentive program that recognizes and encourages community floodplain management activities that exceed the minimum NFIP requirements. As a result, flood insurance premium rates are discounted to reflect the reduced flood risk resulting from the community actions meeting the three goals of the CRS:

- Reduce flood losses
- Facilitate accurate insurance rating
- Promote the awareness of flood insurance

For CRS participating communities, flood insurance premium rates are discounted in increments of 5%; i.e., a Class 1 community would receive a 45% premium discount, while a Class 9 community would receive a 5% discount (a Class 10 is not participating in the CRS and receives no discount). The CRS classes for local communities are based on 18 creditable activities, organized under four categories:

- Public Information
- Mapping and Regulations
- Flood Damage Reduction
- Flood Preparedness

12. What if my jurisdiction isn’t a part of the Multi-jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation planning process?: If your community is not covered by a local hazard mitigation plan, they have two options:

1. They can link to the Spokane County Hazard Mitigation Plan by following the “linkage” procedures included in this plan.
2. Prepare a single jurisdiction plan that meets the requirements for that jurisdiction.

13. Did it cost anything to produce this plan?: 75% of the cost associated with the preparation of this plan was provided by a FEMA Hazard Mitigation Planning grant. The remaining 25% of the cost is an “in-kind” contribution from the Steering committee, planning team and the planning partners this plan will cover. “In-kind” contribution means non-monetary contributions such as staff time, facilities, printing cost, etc.

14. Where are the hazards in my area?: By law, this planning effort must map the extent and location of all hazards of concern utilizing the best available data and science. This planning effort has identified the natural hazards that have the potential to impact the planning area. See the potential hazards within the plan and specifically within the annex to the city, town, or unincorporated area in which you live.

15. Who can I contact for questions?: Greater Spokane Emergency Management
Gerry Bozarth, Mitigation & Recovery Manager
Phone: 509-477-7613

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Environmental Services

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1. How can I view all FAQs for Environmental Services?: See Sewer Billing, Solid Waste, Water Resources and other Environmental Service FAQs at this link >>> FAQs

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Fair & Expo Center

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1. How can I reach Fair and Expo Center staff?: You may contact us in the following ways:
- Phone: 509-477-1766
- Fax: 509-477-8926
- Email: Contact Us Form

2. Where is the facility located? What's the mailing address?: Spokane County Fair and Expo Center
404 N Havana Street, Suite 1
Spokane Valley, WA 99202-4663

3. How do I get to the facility if I'm coming from the East?: Take Exit 286 (Broadway). Turn right on Broadway, continue west to the corner of Broadway and Havana.

4. How do I get to the facility if I'm coming from the West?: Take Exit 283B (Thor-Freya). Turn left on Havana, continue north to the corner of Broadway and Havana.

5. Does the Fair and Expo Center offer on-site camping or RV dumping?: Please visit the home page and click on the camping/rv dumping button for information.

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Family Court

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1. Do I have to call in a family law/paternity motion?

Please review the family law procedural guidelines for information on calling/emailing your case in as ready.

Family Law Procedural Guidelines

2. What if I am low income and cannot afford the filing fee?: You can ask the Court to sign a waiver of the filing fee. You can obtain this form from the Spokane County Clerk’s Office in Room 300 of the Spokane County Courthouse. Clerk Page

3. What is the difference between the Courthouse Facilitator and the Family Law Coordinator?: The Courthouse Facilitator is a non-attorney who provides information to individuals who represent themselves in Superior Court family law/domestic relations matters. The Family Law Coordinator is responsible for the management of all related family law calendars and events scheduled with the Court Commissioners.

4. Do I need an appointment to speak with a facilitator?: The Court House Facilitator does see people on a walk-in basis as well as scheduled appointments.

5. What are the facilitator hours?: The Court House facilitator's hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 11:40 a.m., and 1:30 p.m. to 4:10 p.m, except for Tuesday mornings.

6. How can I contact the facilitator if I live outside the State of Washington?: The Court House Facilitator is available for in-person assistance only, no telephone calls or emails.

7. How do I attend the Sharing the Children Seminar?: There is a list of providers that you need to contact directly to arrange a time to attend the mandatory seminar. Sharing the Children Seminar Providers (PDF)

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General Treasurer's Office Information

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1. What are the Treasurer's Office hours?: The Treasurer’s Office is now open for in-person services. Our office is located on the first floor of the Spokane County Courthouse. Treasurer's Office staff are available in-person from 8:30 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Monday through Friday including the lunch hour.
observed holiday schedule.

2. Where is the Treasurer's Office located?

The Treasurer's Office is located on the 1st floor of the Spokane County Courthouse, which is located at:

1116 West Broadway Avenue

Spokane, WA 99260

3. Where should I mail my tax payments?: Spokane County Treasurer
P.O. Box 199
Spokane, WA 99210

4. Is there a drop box?

Yes. Two drop boxes are now open inside or near the Spokane County Courthouse at 1116 W. Broadway Ave. Spokane, WA 99260

1. Street Level: Located at street level on W. Broadway Ave. directly outside the Spokane County Courthouse main entrance.

2. Main Courthouse Entrance: Located just inside the main entrance to the Spokane County Courthouse before the security checkpoint.

Please remember to include your original tax stub or parcel number(s) with your payment. Only payments by check are accepted in the drop boxes.

5. Can anyone see my tax account records?: Yes. Property tax records are public records.

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Guardians & Guardianship

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1. Where do I obtain guardianship/conservator or trust forms?: Please see the Forms page for information.
Obtaining Guardianship and Trust Forms Page

2. Can guardianship/conservatorship or trust documents/reports be submitted to the court by regular mail, fax, or email?: The Court requires original signatures; therefore documents/reports must be mailed to: Spokane County Superior Court Guardianship Monitoring Program 1116 W Broadway, Room 202A Spokane, WA 99260-0350. Or if you are delivering forms in person please deliver to the Court Administrator's Office, 3rd Floor Annex, Guardianship drop box.

3. Do I need an attorney to complete and file guardianship/conservator or trust paperwork?: It is not required you have an attorney. However, court employees are not allowed to give legal advice or answer any legal questions. Instructions for filing guardianship/conservatorship or trust documents are available online for your use.
Obtaining Guardianship and Trust Forms Page

4. Can I get an extension on my report due date?: Yes. Please see the Forms Page.
Guardianship Report Extension Page

5. I received a noncompliance notice and/or show cause order, what do I do?: If you submit the required document(s)/reports that are past due, the noncompliance notice will be canceled. If you were ordered to appear at a show cause hearing you should appear in court or contact the Guardianship Monitoring Program for additional information.

6. How do I get a copy of a document from the court file?: You can purchase copies of filed documents in the County Clerk’s Office, Room 300 of the County Courthouse.
Clerk Page

7. How do I get a complaint concerning a guardian/conservator addressed?: Complaints concerning guardians/conservators must be in writing, on the approved form found on the Spokane County Guardianship forms page, and mailed to: Spokane Superior Court Guardianship Monitoring Program 1116 W Broadway Room 202A Spokane, WA 99260-0350 They can also be delivered to Court Administrator's Office, 3rd Floor Annex, Guardianship drop box. The court has a protocol by which the complaint will be addressed.
Guardianship Report Extension Page

8. Where do I get the list of approved Title 11 Court Visitor (CV) or how can I be added to the registry?: Title 11 Court Visitor (CV) lists for adult guardianship/conservatorship are administered by the Guardianship Monitoring Program. For the proper rotation, please contact the Guardianship Monitoring Program Office, (509) 477-2622. The Registry List can also be viewed online under Guardian Ad Litem/Court Visitor Page.
Finding List of Guardians Ad Litem or Being Added

9. Where do I go to file a guardianship/conservatorship action?: To file a guardianship/conservatorship; please take your completed forms and any required fees to the County Clerk’s Office, Room 300 of the County Courthouse.
Clerk Page

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Hearing Examiner

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1. WHAT IS THE HEARING EXAMINER’S ROLE?: The Hearing Examiner is an attorney appointed by the Board of County Commissioners to hear and decide land use cases, and other types of quasi-judicial matters. The basic functions of the Hearing Examiner are similar to those of a judge. The terms “administrative law judge” and “administrative hearings officer” are other titles used for this kind of position. The Hearing Examiner acts as a neutral decision-maker. The powers and duties of the Hearing Examiner are set forth in the Hearing Examiner Ordinance. See County Resolution No. 96-0171 and Chapter 1.46 of County Code.

2. WHERE AND WHEN WILL THE LAND USE HEARING BE HELD?: The hearing will be held at the time and place stated in the notice of hearing, unless continued by the Hearing Examiner. The notice of hearing is sent to potentially interested parties and publicized in accordance with the procedures stated in the County Code. In addition, each notice of hearing is posted on the Hearing Examiner's home page, under the link entitled "Agenda Center". Clicking on this link will allow you to view or print a copy of any posted notice of hearing.

The notice of hearing should be consulted to ensure that you obtain accurate information about the time and place for an upcoming hearing. If there are questions about the schedule or location for a hearing, you can also call the Hearing Examiner's office for more information.

3. WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR CONDUCTING A LAND USE HEARING?

Land use hearings conducted by the Hearing Examiner are guided by the Hearing Examiner Rules of Procedure, adopted by County Resolution No. 96-0294. In a land use application hearing, the Hearing Examiner holds a public hearing to receive information and evidence both in favor of or opposed to the application. These hearings provide the public with an opportunity to provide testimony and comment on a proposal, and to obtain responses to questions about a proposal.

The hearing procedure for a land use application will typically be as follows:

1. Introduction of hearing by Hearing Examiner.
2. Report of County Department.
3. Presentation by Applicant.
4. Testimony of Public concerning the application (for or against).
5. Rebuttal, if any, by Applicant and County Department.
6. Final arguments (optional).
7. Adjournment of the hearing.

All hearings are open to the public. Except in appeal hearings, any member of the public may participate. In appeal hearings, participation is generally limited to the witnesses called by the parties to the appeal, and the appealing party will make their presentation before the applicant.

Testimony will usually be taken under oath. An electronic recording is made of the hearing proceedings, a copy of which may be obtained by request or used to produce transcripts for the appellate body on appeal. To be heard on the recording, each person must speak into the microphone. When first testifying, please spell your last name and provide your mailing address for the record. When speaking again, simply provide your name.

Testimony at public hearings is less formal than in a court proceeding. The cross-examination of witnesses is usually allowed on expert testimony or key evidentiary points. To communicate most effectively:
• Testify or submit written evidence on specific project issues.
• Focus on how the project does or does not meet applicable standards or codes.
• Offer alternatives.

Presenting information directly and succinctly, and avoiding repetition, is preferred. Written statements and reports, and visual aids may be used. If agreeing with testimony previously given, a brief statement of support is preferred over a restatement of the testimony. If you have a power point or numerous exhibits to present, please contact the Hearing Examiner's staff assistant on how to use audio visual equipment in the hearing room and to premark exhibits.

4. HOW LONG WILL THE LAND USE HEARING LAST?: The length of a public hearing depends on the complexity of the issues involved and the number of participants. There is no predetermined minimum or maximum length for a public hearing. A public hearing will usually take at least one hour to complete and will usually be completed in 1-3 hours. If there are a large number of witnesses and significant opposition to a proposal, a public hearing can take a day or more to complete. In rare cases, the hearing can take place over multiple days.

5. WHEN WILL THE LAND USE DECISION BE ISSUED?: No oral decision is made at the land use hearing. After the hearing is concluded and the record is closed, the Hearing Examiner considers the matter further and then prepares a written decision. The Hearing Examiner's decision is issued in the form of findings of fact, conclusions of law, and a decision on the application or appeal. The decision approving a land use application will include conditions of approval.

The time frame for the issuance of the Hearing Examiner's decision depends upon the complexity of the decision being made, the size of the record, and other matters the Hearing Examiner may be working on. In the majority of cases, the Hearing Examiner's decision will be issued within ten working days after the conclusion of the public hearing, pursuant to the County Code. If the Hearing Examiner decides to hold the record open for a period of time after the conclusion of the hearing to receive additional evidence, documentation or arguments, the Examiner's decision will usually be issued within ten working days of the closure of the record.

6. WHO RECEIVES A COPY OF THE LAND USE DECISION?: The land use decision will be mailed to the appellant/applicant, parties of record, and any person who specifically requests a copy of the decision. Parties of record include all persons who submitted written comments on the matter before or during the hearing, and anyone who attended the hearing and testified on the matter. Parties that testify will be asked to state their mailing address for notice purposes at the time testimony is offered. In addition, there is a sign-in sheet at each public hearing that includes a space for contact information, for both participants and observers. When written comments are submitted, contact information should be included in the comments for notice purposes. Parties who do not provide the Hearing Examiner with an accurate and legible mailing address will not receive a copy of the decision. A courtesy copy of the decision can also be provided by email, upon request. Copies of Hearing Examiner decisions are also available online on the Hearing Examiner's home page.

7. HOW DO I APPEAL THE LAND USE DECISION IF I AM NOT SATISFIED?: The Hearing Examiner's decision on a land use application or appeal is a final decision, unless a timely and proper appeal is filed.

At the end of the decision, after the Hearing Examiner's signature, there is a paragraph that states the deadline to file an appeal and who to file the appeal with. Most land use decisions of the Hearing Examiner are appealable to Spokane County Superior Court. A limited number of decisions are subject to appeal to the Board of County Commissioners or the State Shoreline Hearings Board. It is the responsibility of the appealing party to review the applicable procedures (statutes, local ordinances, administrative regulations, etc.) to ensure that the appeal is timely and properly filed. The appealing party may wish to consult with an experienced attorney for guidance. The Hearing Examiner's office cannot provide legal advice.

8. WHO CAN ANSWER QUESTIONS IF I AM NOT SURE WHAT TO DO?: The Hearing Examiner's office can answer procedural questions, explain the process, and describe how hearings are usually run and what to expect. The Hearing Examiner's office cannot assist with, or give advice on how to put together your presentation, what questions to ask witnesses, whom to select as a witness, whether to get a lawyer to help, or handle similar questions; because providing such advice or assistance could be interpreted as advocating for your position or giving legal advice.

During a hearing, you can raise procedural questions before the Hearing Examiner. Before and after a hearing, such questions should be submitted to the Hearing Examiner's staff, rather than directly to the Hearing Examiner. This is necessary to avoid violating the prohibition on communicating with the Hearing Examiner outside the actual hearing. Such communications are referred to as "ex parte contacts" and are prohibited by law. Please see County Resolution No. 96-0294.

9. WHAT OTHER MATTERS ARE HEARD BY THE HEARING EXAMINER?: The Hearing Examiner is authorized to conduct hearings on dangerous dog/potentially dangerous dog declarations issued by the Spokane County Regional Animal Protection Agency (SCRAPS) under Chapter 5.04 of the County Code, and make recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners for a final decision.

The Hearing Examiner is appointed by the Spokane County Sheriff as a hearing officer to hear and decide drug forfeiture claims under the Uniform Controlled Substances Act.

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Home Page

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1. Who do I contact to see what my property taxes will be?: The Treasurer's Office can answer tax billing questions, and can be reached at 509-477-4713.

2. Where do I go to post bond/bail?: Contact District Court, 1st Floor, Public Safety Building or the Superior Court Clerk, Room 300 of the Spokane County Courthouse, 509-477-2211.

3. How do I obtain copies of documents from a court file?: You can obtain copies of documents both in person and by mail. There are fees for this service. For full information, please see the
Obtaining Copies of Documents page.

4. What do I do if I've been called for Jury Duty?: If you have been summoned for jury duty, please visit the Jury Service page on the Superior Court website for more information.

5. Where do I get a concealed weapons permit?: Apply for concealed pistol licenses (CPL) at the Police Records information window in the Public Safety Building, 1100 West Mallon Avenue, Spokane. The building is located behind the historic County Courthouse on W. Broadway Ave.

6. How do I request birth & death certificates?: Birth and death certificates can be requested from the Spokane Regional Health District.

7. How do I get married by a Judge?

For District Court:

Marriage Ceremonies are performed by specific Judges of the District Court. These ceremonies are performed after 5 p.m. on non-holiday weekdays. Judges are also available to perform ceremonies on weekends and holidays. For more information, please visit and fill out a Wedding Information Form.

For Superior Court:

All Superior Court Judges and Court Commissioners are authorized by law to perform marriage ceremonies. You can contact the judicial officer of your choice individually or Superior Court Commissioners. If you do not have a preference as to a judicial officer, call 509-477-5784 or email scheduleweddings@gmail.com.

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Housing & Community Development

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1. Do you offer assistance to homeowners for sewer connections?: Yes, the Department operates the Community Aquifer Protection Assistance (CAPA) program, which provides assistance to eligible low and very-low income County homeowners to aid in paying the costs associated with connecting to the centralized sewer system. Find more information about the CAPA program.

2. How are CDBG and HOME funds being used in Spokane County?: CDBG funds are used to fund public service projects, economic development activities, public facilities improvements, and infrastructure improvements. HOME funds are used to fund new multi-family construction, down payment assistance for new homeowners, and for preservation of existing low-income housing.

3. What assistance do you provide for City of Spokane residents?: The County Housing and Community Development Department does not provide assistance to City of Spokane residents. The City has its own entitlement from HUD and distributes those funds through the City of Spokane Community Development Department.

4. When are applications for funding accepted?: Generally, CDBG applications are made available in early November each year and are due in mid-December. Applications for HOME funds are generally accepted in April , but may be available at other times during the year depending on the availability of additional funds. Notices of funding availability are published in the Spokesman-Review prior to each funding round, or email us to request that you name be added to our mailing list to receive notification by mail. Contact for Request

5. Where do I get information about housing projects for low to moderate income persons?: The Spokane County Housing and Community Development Department can provide you with information about housing projects for low to moderate income persons. Housing Resources Page

6. Who administers "Section 8" subsidized housing in Spokane?: Several entities administer different aspects of Section 8 subsidized housing within the County. For more information, please see the

7. Who can apply to receive CDBG or HOME funds?: Eligible applicants include Spokane County's eleven participating cities and towns, special purpose districts, County Departments, local units of government, non-profit organizations and for-profit businesses. Eligible individuals do not receive funds directly from the Department, but can get assistance from many of the organizations we fund. The one exception is the sewering assistance program.

8. Whom do I contact with housing discrimination complaints?: The Northwest Fair Housing Alliance (NWFHA) provides education, outreach and enforcement assistance to combat housing discrimination. NWFHA also offers a landlord/tenant hotline.
Northwest Fair Housing Alliance
35 W Main Avenue
Suite 250
Spokane, WA 99201
Phone: 509-325-2665
Toll free: 800-200-3247
Fax: 509-325-2716 Northwest Fair Housing Alliance (NWFHA)

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Interstate Fair Vendors

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1. What is the past attendance for the Interstate Fair?: - 2014 - 189,450
- 2013 - 188,070
- 2012 - 207,550
- 2011 - 189,900
- 2010 - 195,255
- 2009 - 227,075
- 2008 - 242,159
- 2007 - 235,010
- 2006 - 218,789
- 2005 - 193,301
- 2004 - 189,066
- 2003 - 211,436
- 2002 - 229,378
- 2001 - 231,152
- 2000 - 239,198

2. When I'm at the Fair, it seems like there's no end to the commercial exhibit booths. How many exhibitors are there?: There are approximately 200 exhibitors occupying over 300 commercial exhibit spaces. These include exhibitors in Bay 1, Bay 2, Bay 3, the Plaza, as well as those covering dozens of acres of outside space. And who can forget those ever popular food vendors.

3. If I fill out an application to become an Exhibitor, am I automatically guaranteed a space for the upcoming Interstate Fair?: No. At the Interstate Fair, previous exhibitors and concessionaires are given first opportunity to contract for the same space unless performance has been unsatisfactory. Because of the large number of requests for space and the large percentage of exhibitors and concessionaires who wish to return each year, we usually only have limited space available to new applicants or current exhibitors who wish additional space. Therefore, it is usually April or May before space vacancies can be determined for new applicants.

Anyone who would like to become an Exhibitor or Food Vendor must go through the application process first. All Exhibitors and Vendors offered a contract are selected from a list compiled in the order the applications are received. A member of the Interstate Fair Staff will contact you if your application is selected.

4. After I've printed off and completed the application, where do I send it?: Completed applications may be returned to the Fair Office via one of the three methods. All applications will receive a date stamp upon arrival and be placed on our waiting list in the order they were received.

Fax: 509-477-8926
Email: jmclaughlin@spokanecounty.org
Mail to:
Spokane County Interstate Fair
404 N Havana Street, Suite 1
Spokane Valley, WA 99202-4663

If you have any questions, please contact our concessions and exhibits staff at 509-477-2772.

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Juvenile Court Services - Diversion

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1. What are the advantages of Diversion to the community?: Local problems can often be addressed by utilizing local volunteers who represent the community’s best interest. Such would be the case in utilizing Diversion as a means to address local or community problems. Diversion is a considerably less expensive process than that of formal court processing.

The Diversion Program interfaces directly with community service organizations, counseling services, the schools, law enforcement, the juveniles themselves, and their families. This provides a community response and ownership to juvenile crime. Simply stated, Diversion allows the community to assume responsibility for its juvenile crime problems and makes the youth accountable to the community for his or her behavior.

2. What are the advantages of Diversion to the juvenile?: The Diversion process is confidential and private, unlike Court proceedings which are public. The Diversion Program is also more convenient and less time-consuming than the formal court process. While the Diversion Program normally conducts its meetings in the evening or at a time that is convenient to the youth and his or her family it is important to note that a Diversion Agreement cannot require a juvenile to serve time in detention (jail).

3. What happens if a juvenile fails to complete his or her Diversion Agreement?: If a youth does not follow the requirements of his or her Diversion Agreement, the case will be referred to the Prosecuting Attorney for review, and a formal Court hearing called a Diversion Termination hearing may occur. If the Court determines that the youth failed to complete his or her Diversion Agreement, the case will proceed to arraignment and will be handled like other Juvenile Court cases. If the youth does not appear at the court hearing, the court may order a warrant for the youth’s arrest.

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Law Library

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1. Can I come to the law library to get legal help and advice?: Law library staff are not allowed by law to give legal advice. Only lawyers may provide legal advice. What law library staff can help with is finding legal information and assisting you with how to use the research sources available.

2. I need to make copies of my court documents. What does it cost?: Yes, it costs 25 cents for each sheet of paper. Cash only.

3. Do you have forms I need for my lawsuit?: The law library staff are not allowed to decide which forms are appropriate for you. The library's collection contain samples of forms that you may need for your lawsuit. Some forms are not readily available for filling out. You will need to create a court accepted form. Also there are local, state, and federal forms that can be accessed online at the library's public computer terminals.

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Marriage in Custody

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1. Do I, the intended spouse, need to fill out any forms?: Only the inmate is required to fill out the form and submit it. It does not have to be filled out by the intended spouse.

2. What do I do now that my marriage request has been approved?: The person that is not incarcerated needs to apply for a marriage license through the County Clerk. Once that is done the application will need to be dropped off at the Jail/Geiger for the inmate to sign in front of a notary. The form will then need to be sent back out by the inmate. The Jail/Geiger does not need a copy of it.

3. How do I schedule the marriage once it has been approved?: The marriage will be handled like any normal visit. All visiting requirements apply to the wedding ceremony. The marriage will take place in a visiting booth during normal visiting hours. The inmate will not be allowed to dress into civilian clothes for the wedding, nor will there be an exchange of wedding rings allowed.

4. The date of the wedding needs to be changed. What do I do?: Changing the wedding date is fine. The Jail/Geiger does not need to be notified if the wedding date is changed as long as the visiting requirements are adhered to.

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Medical Examiner's Office

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1. Can I say no to an autopsy?: The Medical Examiner has legal authority to decide if an autopsy will be performed. However, we certainly wish to respect the wishes and concerns of you and your family during this difficult time. We encourage you to call and discuss your particular situation with the Medical Examiner, as part of his or her decision making process. If you do object to an autopsy you should contact our office as soon as possible at 509-477-2296 and advise us of your concern.

2. How do I find out about organ and tissue donation?: Although our office has no part in determining the suitability of organ and tissue recovery, we do try to facilitate the process by putting families in touch with the regional agency that does this work. If you have such an interest you may call the Donor Information Line at 800-214-6356 to have your questions answered about tissue and organ recovery.

3. How do I find the Medical Examiner's Office?: Driving directions from the freeway are as follows:
- Take Exit 281, Division Street, northbound off of the freeway. This is a three to four lane, one way, arterial.
- Stay on this arterial northbound for approximately 4.1 miles, and then turn right at the traffic light on Central Avenue (5800 block North Division). Our office entrance is located approximately two blocks east of Division on Central, on the left, in the North Spokane Professional Building, 5901 N Lidgerwood. We are downstairs in Suite 24B. Please call if you need other directions at 509-477-2296.

4. How do I get the personal effects back?: Clothing will go to the funeral home with the body. Other personal items such as jewelry, wallets, keys, etc. are logged separately, held in a secure area at our facility, and then released to the next-of-kin or to someone they designate.

Unclaimed property is transferred to the Spokane County Treasurer/Auditor on a regular basis per Washington State Law (see RCW 36.247.130). You may call our office and make arrangements to pick these items up.

Medications in the name of the deceased cannot be released.

5. How do I obtain a copy of an autopsy report?: There is a $20 copy fee payable by cash, check, or money order. The copy fee is due prior to any records being released. Checks and money orders must be payable to The Spokane County Medical Examiner’s Office.

This report is confidential in the state of Washington per RCW 68.50.105.

As stated in RCW 68.50.105, Reports and records of autopsies or postmortems shall be confidential, except that the following persons may examine and obtain copies of any such report or record: The personal representative of the decedent as defined in RCW 11.02.005, any family member, the attending physician or advanced registered nurse practitioner, the prosecuting attorney or law enforcement agencies having jurisdiction, public health officials, the department of labor and industries in cases in which it has an interest under RCW 68.50.103, or the secretary of the department of social and health services or his or her designee in cases being reviewed under RCW 74.13.640. (The term "family" means the surviving spouse, state registered domestic partner, or any child, parent, grandparent, grandchild, brother, or sister of the decedent, or any person who was guardian of the decedent at the time of death).

If you meet the criteria listed above, you may request a copy of the autopsy report. This can be done in person, by phone, or in writing. Written requests should include the name of the decedent, your relationship to the decedent, your contact information to include where you would like the report mailed, and the copy fee.

If the request is coming from someone other than the parties which are listed in RCW 68.50.105, then the request must also include a release signed by the next-of-kin.

RCW 68.50.105

6. How do I obtain a Death Certificate?

Copies of the death certificate are often needed to make insurance claims, transfer titles, and to finish other financial business. Most funeral homes will help you get copies of the death certificate or you can call the Spokane Regional Health District, Vital Records at 509-324-1524. You may also visit their website below.

The Medical Examiner’s Office does not have the ability to issue copies of Death Certificates. Only Vital Records and/or the Funeral Home can provide these to you.

Spokane Regional Health District Website

7. How much will Medical Examiner services cost?: With the exception of the autopsy report (if desired), there is no charge for the services provided by our office. We are supported by county tax dollars and revenue from surrounding counties.

8. What do I do with the residence?: The Medical Examiner’s Office has jurisdiction over the body and things associated with the death. Legal jurisdiction over the rest of the death scene lies with the responding police or deputy. Law enforcement officers on the scene may be a resource in helping you with security questions and concerns.

9. What happens during the autopsy?: 1. The examination of the body. Sometimes this reveals an injury or disease that can be seen such as an aneurysm, a fracture, or a gunshot wound. Some causes of death are not visible and may not be apparent at the time of autopsy.

2. The histology, or “slides.” When an autopsy is performed several small tissue samples are normally taken and sent out to be prepared, and then returned as slides for microscopic examination. This normally takes seven to ten working days to process. The doctor will view these slides for signs of infection, injury, or disease and include these findings in the autopsy report.

3. A toxicology report. In most cases we request a toxicology analysis from the Washington State Toxicology Lab in Seattle. This typically involves sending blood and urine samples to the lab which then screens the samples for selected medications as well as common drugs of abuse and returns a report to our office. This process currently takes approximately eight to ten weeks, depending on the lab’s work load, staffing, and the complexity of the results.

10. What if I need more time to select a funeral home?: We recognize that this is a stressful time. However, due to the limited space in our facility, and out of consideration for other families that have similar needs, we ask that you call our office 509-477-2296 for assistance if you cannot make a funeral home decision in the first two or three days.

11. What if I want an autopsy, but the Medical Examiner doesn’t want to do one?: If the Medical Examiner declines to do an autopsy the family may, at their own expense, pursue a private autopsy. Typically, this involves contacting a private pathology service and paying a fee for their service.

12. Where can I get help with clean up of a residence after a death?: Crime scene clean-up involves the cleaning up of bio-hazardous material, such as blood, tissue, and/or other bodily fluids. This may mean the biologically contaminated scene of a violent death such as homicide, suicide, accident, or in deaths in which decomposition has begun to occur.

Special knowledge is required to safely handle bio-hazardous material; the companies that handle crime scene clean up have the training to handle such scenes and all hazardous materials.

For a listing of local and regional Bio-Hazard Cleaning Services, visit our Bio-Hazard Cleaning Services Page.

13. Where will the body be taken?: The body will be transported to the Forensic Institute (the county morgue facility) located at Holy Family Hospital. To ensure privacy of families and individuals involved in our investigations, the dignity of their loved ones, and to preserve the easily compromised medicolegal evidence that may be present in the various cases we handle, we regret that we cannot allow public access or viewing in our facility. Viewing of the body can be arranged later with your funeral home. In some deaths, when it is unlikely that an autopsy will be performed, the body may be released to a funeral home as directed by the family without an autopsy.

14. Who are the people removing the body?: The Medical Examiner’s Office contracts with Lilac City Transport, a private company, to provide transportation services to the county morgue facility at Holy Family Hospital.

15. Why do an autopsy?: An autopsy is performed at the discretion of the Medical Examiner in order to determine the cause and manner of death when the death may have been accidental, the result of a suicide or homicide, or otherwise falls under our jurisdiction. An autopsy can tell us what happened, and sometimes just as importantly, what didn’t happen.

An autopsy generates a legal document that can be used in court for insurance claims, to settle estates, and so on. Autopsy findings may also provide peace of mind to a family who may also have questions about the circumstances resulting in the death of their loved one.

16. Will an autopsy effect funeral preparations?: In most cases the results of an autopsy examination will not be visible or noticeable during a funeral.

17. Will an autopsy delay the funeral?: Generally, as long as the body is positively identified and you have told us which funeral home to call, we can release the body to the funeral home as soon as the autopsy is completed.

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Noxious Weed Control Board

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1. Why does Spokane County have a Noxious Weed Control Board and what does it do?

A state law passed in 1969 mandated that all counties in Washington have a program to combat noxious weeds. The Spokane County Noxious Weed Control Board was established in 1970 and consists of five citizen volunteers who represent five districts that cover the entire county. The Boards meets monthly and provides vision and direction to the weed control program.

Spokane County's Noxious Weed Control Program focuses on education, notification, technical assistance and control of noxious weeds through voluntary compliance and enforcement. During the months of April through August, when the weeds are actively growing, the Weed Board employs a field staff with natural resource, horticulture and agriculture backgrounds to survey public and privately owned lands for noxious weeds and to work with landowners to achieve weed control.

Approximately 25% of the inspections come from citizens who report noxious weed locations to our office, the remainder are inspections made by the field staff as they travel the county.

2. How is Weed Control Enforced?: When an infestation is identified, the landowner is notified in writing and given a variety of options on how to control the weeds. Including hand pulling, mowing or cutting; advice on pasture management and on the most effective and least harmful methods of applying herbicides.
Landowners control the majority of weed infestations voluntarily. The Weed Board controls approximately 2% of the known infestations.

3. How is the Program Funded?: When Washington State passed the law mandating the control of noxious weeds, it gave counties only 2 ways to fund the work. They could compete for general fund money, or they could put a special, dedicated fee on property. In 1984, after years of competing for decreasing funds through the County's general fund, the Weed Board received approval from the County Commissioners to put a small assessment on parcels in Spokane County. It is not a tax, it is a regulatory fee for a service that is available to all landowners and it cannot be imposed selectively.
Everyone benefits when noxious weeds are controlled. Prevention of new infestations is a top priority for the Spokane County Noxious Weed Control Board.

4. Noxious Weed List: The Spokane County Noxious Weed Control Board adopts a Noxious Weed List each year. The list categorizes weeds into four classes, Class A, Class B Designates, Class B and Class C, according to the seriousness of the threat they pose to the County. In addition to these classes, Spokane County has established a Weeds of Concern list.

5. What do I do if my neighbor has weeds and isn't doing anything about them?: Submit an
Investigation Request.

6. I have some weeds growing on my property and I am not sure if they are noxious or not, can someone come look at them and tell me what they are and how to get rid of them?: One of our inspectors can meet with you on your property and help you identify the weeds and offer control recommendations. To request an inspection of your property, just call our office at 509-477-5777 for the form, download the form from this website, or submit an Investigation Request online.

7. Is the Noxious Weed Board the agency that controls weeds on the County's right-of-way?: No. The County Engineer's Road Department is responsible for controlling weeds that grow along the County's road right-of-ways. Contact the County Engineers at 509-477-3600 for questions or concerns regarding weeds on the right-of-ways or on County owned property.

8. Why do I have a weed charge on my tax statement?: It is the source of funding for the Spokane County Noxious Weed Control Board, it allows us to carry out the mandates of RCW 17.10 and WAC 16-750.

9. What should I spray my weeds with?: It will depend on what noxious weeds you have, their stage of growth and other site-specific variables. Remember to always follow the label directions when applying herbicides. Please contact our office for more information on herbicides, or refer to the information provided on this website under Noxious Weed Control Recommendations.

10. Why are noxious weeds considered a material defect to my property?: Just like a leaky roof or poor foundation, noxious weeds are a detriment to the value of the property and will take time and money to get under control.

11. How do I get a Pesticide License?: Contact the local WA Department of Agriculture at 509-533-2690.

12. Do grazing animals and wildlife eat noxious weeds?: This depends on the animal and the type of weed. Rarely do animals prefer to eat noxious weeds. Most often on pastures infested with weeds, the animals will graze the desirable vegetation, causing an increase in the problem weeds.

Elk prefer native forbs and grasses and will starve to death on ranges infested with Spotted knapweed and Leafy spurge. Doves readily eat and distribute Leafy spurge seeds. Leafy spurge can be grazed by sheep, but is toxic to cattle and horses can eat Musk thistle blooms, while Russian knapweed is toxic to them.

13. Will mowing alone control my noxious weeds?: Generally you will find that this form of control will not work all summer because the plants will start to bloom lower than your mower blade. Mowing is one important method in stopping seed production, but should be used along with other control measures to stop the spread of noxious weeds. For example, mowing is not entirely effective on Spotted knapweed or Leafy spurge, but a diligent 3 year mowing program on Canada thistle may achieve around 90% control if mowed at the early bud stage of growth (several times during the growing season) followed by a fall application of herbicides. This will increase the control efforts and help to cause the thistle to collapse.

14. I'm not going to worry about my weeds and let nature takes it course and leave my land "natural"; is this acceptable?: This is an open invitation for noxious weeds to come into an area. If land is not managed correctly, then the most aggressive, non-native plants that are established nearby may take over an area, choking out native grasses and forbs. The knapweed infestation in Montana is contributing to the death of over 200 elk per year and several cattle ranches have been abandoned due to the overwhelming invasion of Leafy spurge and knapweed.

It is important to keep in mind that biological control is a slow process and will not eradicate noxious weeds. However, they do have their place in an integrated pest management plan. When used in conjunction with mechanical, cultural and/or chemical control methods, bio’s can improve the overall control efforts. The use of bio’s alone does not comply with the Spokane County Noxious Weed Control Board’s Policy or the WA State Noxious Weed Law.

15. I don't want to spray my weeds because herbicides are very toxic and will remain in the soil where they are sprayed; is this acceptable?: Most herbicides are considered low or moderately toxic. All chemicals have a half-life in the environment. Half-life is defined as the amount of time it takes to biodegrade one half of the original amount. Herbicides are broken down by sunlight and microbial activity in the soil.

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Online Bill Presentment & Payment

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1. What are some of the benefits of receiving my bill electronically?: It is convenient, saves time, reduces errors, allows you to receive bills anywhere at any time and helps the environment by saving trees. You can continue to receive a paper bill, but if you elect to go paperless, you can always print out a copy of the invoice if needed.

2. What are the benefits of paying a bill online?: Paying online with a credit card or electronic check saves time, gives you the flexibility to pay how and when desired, and saves money (no more stamps, paper checks or envelopes), and Invoice Cloud will store your information for future use - but only if you choose to store it.

3. How does the system work?: It is very simple. Here are the 3 steps taken by customers:
- Customer receives email notification or accesses account via the Biller website by clicking on the “View or Pay Your Bill” button.
- Customer locates and views invoice and either enters payment information for a One Time Payment or registers to schedule a payment.
- Customer receives an email confirmation with their payment amount and payment process date.

4. Do I need to register to pay a bill?: Registration is not required for-one time payments. One-time payments require that you enter your payment information each time you make a payment. By registering, you avoid that step and gain access to your payment history.

5. What forms of payment can I use?: You can pay by credit or debit card or you may issue an electronic check from your bank account (checking or savings). Please check our website for eligible credit and debit cards.

6. How will I know that my payment has been accepted?: After you submit your payment, you will see a payment confirmation screen. It will contain your payment confirmation message. It will show an approved number for credit cards or a processed number for electronic check. You will also receive a confirmation email after your transaction is submitted. The email will include your account number, invoice number, amount paid, and confirmation message. If your electronic check does not pass through the bank, you will receive an email informing you of the rejected payment. You may need to contact our office to pay again.

7. What are the costs for paying electronically?: There are no signup costs or subscription fees. The non refundable convenience fee when using an ACH transfer (electronic check) from your checking or savings account is $0.45 per transaction.

The nonrefundable convenience fee when using credit or debit cards is a percentage-based or flat rate fee that varies depending on the card type. The convenience fee is automatically calculated based upon the type of card used and the dollar amount of the bill being paid and is shown on the payment page before you submit your payment for processing.

There are fees imposed by biller/invoice cloud for returned payments, and your bank may charge you a fee based on the bank's fee schedule.

8. Will I be able to print a copy of my bill?: Yes, each invoice is presented in PDF and HTML format. Electronic storage is recommended because it saves paper and has a beneficial impact on our environment.

9. When I sign up to "Go Paperless", will I still receive a paper bill in the mail?: No, you will receive an email notification each time a new bill is ready for you to view and pay. Email notifications go to the email address used when you registered, a second email address may be added if you wish to send notifications to an additional or back up email address.

10. Can I start receiving paper bills again?: Yes, simply go into your profile and under Paperless Options, select “No, I don’t want to go paperless.” Be sure to update/save the change.

11. I received an email stating "Thank you for going paperless", but I did not sign up for paperless.: Option 1: Customer must click on “Complete paperless process” link within email to complete enrollment. If they do not, the paperless option will not be active and will drop off system within a few days.

Option 2: Customer can log into account and cancel paperless registration.
Choose > My Profile > paperless option > cancel paperless registration.

12. I accidentally deleted my current email notification, what should I do?: If you are registered, you can login via your biller website and view the bill there, or you can call your biller’s office and ask them to resend the email.

13. If I have additional questions about my bill or am having trouble registering, who should I call?: The Treasurer's Office, at 509-477-4713, can answer most questions, but if the website is down or inoperable, please call Invoice Cloud customer service at 781-848-3733.

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Paying Your Taxes

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1. When are property taxes due?: First half property taxes are reguarly due by April 30th. Second half taxes are due by October 31st. If either of these due dates fall on a weekend or a holiday, payments are due the next business day. If paying on the due date, you may make your payment in person, by mail or through our website. An official U.S. Postal Service postmark determines the payment date for all mailed payments.

2. Can I make partial payments?: Yes, partial payments are accepted. For more information, please call 509-477-4713.

3. Can I pay my taxes with a credit or debit card?: Yes. Taxes can be paid by credit or debit card by calling 509-477-4713 or paying online. A fee, set by the vendor, is charged for processing credit card and debit card payments.

4. How do I know if my mortgage company is paying my taxes?: If the postcard you receive states "courtesy/information only" at the top, our records show that you or your agent has instructed us to bill a mortgage company for the taxes on this parcel. If this is incorrect, you need to pay the taxes prior to the due date to avoid delinquent charges and contact your mortgage company to verify escrow status.

5. My mortgage company no longer pays my taxes. What should I do?: Contact the Treasurer's Office immediately with the correct taxpayer's address. Under Washington Law, it is the taxpayer's responsibility to insure taxes are paid on their property.

6. How long before the county forecloses my property?: Real property foreclosure will start if any one tax is 3 full years delinquent.

Example #1: If the 2004 full tax that was due on April 30, 2004 was $100 and nothing has been paid, foreclosure would not start until April 30, 2007.

Example #2: If the 2004 full tax was $100 and $50 was paid on or before October 31, 2004, that tax would not go to sale until 2008.

7. How can I obtain Tax Foreclosure information?: Go to the Foreclosure Section or call 509-477-2073. For more information you can also use our
contact form.

8. When is the Tax Foreclosure Auction?: Contact the Treasurer's Office or call 509-477-2073 for real estate or 509-477-5746 for personal property and mobile homes. For more information use our
contact form.

9. What do I need to know when paying taxes under protest?: Payments under protest must be in writing and comply with the provisions of the state law. These laws can be found in the Revised Code of Washington, 84.60.020.

10. Are there exemptions for seniors and disabled persons?

Yes. If you are 62 years old or older or disabled, own the house you live in, and have an annual income of $40,000 or less, you may be entitled to a property tax reduction.

For application and further information, call the Assessor's Office at 509-477-3698.

11. Does the Treasurer collect liens?: Yes. Counties, cities, and municipalities have the authority per the Revised Code of Washington to add liens on the property tax roll for individual parcels. This type of lien may be added at any time throughout the year. Examples of the types of liens that can be placed on the parcel are: demolition of buildings, spraying for noxious weeds on individual parcels, and delinquent assessment charges for city improvement districts.

The liens include any interest, penalty and/or cost owed the local government or municipality. The county, city or municipality will charge an additional interest rate on the principle amount due from the date certified to the treasurer until the date paid in accordance with the applicable RCW. When a lien is put on the property, it is billed and collected as real property. When making a payment, the lien amount must be included or the payment will be returned. The Treasurer cannot accept partial payments.

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Personal Property

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1. What is personal property?: This is a detailed area, for more information please visit the Personal Property page.

2. Who administers the personal property tax?: View the personal property tax information page.

3. If I have any other questions about personal property, who should I contact?: Contact the Spokane County Assessor's Office at 509-477-4787.

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Public Works

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1. Where do I get information about barricading streets?: Engineering and Roads Division of the Spokane County Public Works Department can provide you with information about barricading streets around your neighborhood or anywhere in the County. Engineering and Roads Division Page

2. Where do I get information about obtaining a block party permit?: The Engineering and Roads Division of the Spokane County Public Works Department can provide you with information about obtaining a block party permit. Engineering and Roads Division Page

3. Where do I get information about road maintenance, drainage issues?: The Engineering and Roads Division of the Spokane County Public Works Department can provide you with information about county road maintenance, drainage issues, etc. Road Maintenance Page

4. Where do I get information about sidewalk maintenance?: The Engineering and Roads Division of the Spokane County Public Works Department can provide you with information about County sidewalk maintenance. Engineering and Roads Division Page

5. Where do I get information about snow removal on County roads?: Please contact the Engineering and Roads Division of the Spokane County Public Works Department for the latest information on County road snow removal. Snow Plowing Page

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Public Works - Country Homes Boulevard Restoration

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1. What does CHBRP Mean?: CHBRP is an acronym that stands for Country Homes Boulevard Restoration Project. Throughout this County website, you will notice that references to the project will frequently involve the abbreviated form of the title, or CHBRP.

2. Why build the CHBRP?: Spokane County’s NPDES Phase II permit, a permit required by the EPA and administered by the Washington State Department of Ecology, states that the County must provide water quality retrofit facilities in an effort to treat polluted stormwater before it reaches a surface water body or drinking water source.

The Country Homes Boulevard channel is the main conduit for transporting stormwater runoff within the Five Mile Watershed to the Price and Wall Regional Stormwater facility. While Price and Wall is a water quality treatment facility, it does not have the capacity to treat all of the potential stormwater pollutants that reach the facility via the channel.

Almost all of the pollution-generating impervious surfaces (i.e., roads, sidewalks, roofs, and driveways) that stormwater runoff flows across (starting from the Prairie on down to the channel) is currently lacking any stormwater pre-treatment.

By restoring the Country Homes Boulevard channel, we approach meeting the treatment requirements of today’s water quality standards.

3. Why couldn't the Stormwater Utility just seal the cracks in the channel? Wouldn't that have been enough to keep the weeds from growing?: Sealing cracks is not a solution and would not prevent weeds from growing. Sediment would have always been transported from Austin Draw into the channel in its pre-existing state. Seeds would have continued to embed and grow in the sediment no matter how often the County removed the material.

Leaving the channel in its existing state would have meant stormwater that reached the asphalt channel would have been untreated.

4. Who financed the CHBRP?: Spokane County applied for and received two Washington State Department of Ecology Stormwater Retrofit grants totaling $1.75 million. These grants were a 75/25 match, meaning that one quarter (25%) of the project’s total cost was covered by Spokane County and the other three quarters (75%) was reimbursed by Ecology.

The Spokane County Stormwater Utility funded its portion of the project design and construction costs with fees previously collected from residents within the North Spokane Stormwater Service Area.

5. What were the project limits?: The Country Homes Boulevard Restoration Project began at Cedar Street and ended at Wall Street. A portion of the project extends through private property northeast toward the County's Price & Wall Regional Stormwater Facility.

The CHBRP did not involve replacing or increasing the number and width of traffic lanes. The County Traffic Engineer did elect to slightly narrow existing traffic lane widths in order to re-stripe existing parking and add new bicycle lanes along the Boulevard.

6. What was the projected timeline for construction?: The project started on May 27, 2014. Substantial completion was achieved by the end of November 2014.

7. People drive way too fast on Country Homes Boulevard. Will the project make it worse?: Studies show that vegetated medians have a calming effect on traffic, encouraging slower speeds as the landscaping helps to visually narrow the driving lane. In other words, the plantings and trees interrupt motorists’ views further down the street, rather than being able to see an endless length of pavement a long distance ahead. Research also indicates that the inclusion of trees and other streetscape features along boulevards may actually reduce crashes and injuries on urban roadways. In fact, accident rates on urban, tree-lined streets were reduced by 61% when compared to similar streets without landscaping and trees.

8. What regulatory permitting processes affected construction of the CHBRP?: Read about the processes affected on the Regulator Processes page.

9. How does the new bio-infiltration swale and subsurface pipe system work?: The new system is a combination landscaped bio-infiltration swale for treatment of stormwater runoff and a subsurface pipe to carry flood and ground water from Five Mile Prairie, plus serve as conveyance during large storm events; overflow structures are connected to the pipe.

Runoff from Country Homes Boulevard, and the neighboring side-streets, driveways, and sidewalks will either sheet flow into the new swale area and slowly infiltrate through the bio-engineered treatment soil, or, in places where side-street runoff is currently hard-piped into the existing asphalt channel, where constructible will now be hard-piped to the swale onto an energy dissipator.

Stormwater that is carried in the subsurface pipe may still outfall at the same termination point that it did in its pre-construction condition: at the Price and Wall Regional Stormwater Facility.

10. Will the swale be able to handle heavy rainfall in the same capacity that the existing asphalt channel did?: During large storm events, when the soil is saturated and the stormwater cannot infiltrate fast enough to keep up with the rate of precipitation, water will pond up and spill over into structures in the swale that are directly connected to the subsurface pipe. The subsurface pipe is sized to carry the 100-year storm but, in most sections of the pipe, can also carry the 500-year storm.

11. Will standing water in the bio-infiltration swale attract mosquitoes?: No. Mosquitoes need stagnant water to breed. While the engineered topsoil is designed to infiltrate slowly for pollutant removal, stormwater runoff should not pond in the swales for longer than 72 hours.

12. How will the bio-infiltration swale handle snow?: Vehicle-rated pullouts are sited alongside each overflow structure for facility cleaning, access for mowing and weeding, and for the placement of snow in winter months. There are also 2-foot gravel shoulders before the planting area to allow for additional snowpack storage. Plant selection involved materials that are salt, sand, and ice resistant.

13. How will the project affect irrigation?: Due to the height and density of the plant material, and the desire to be good stewards of the aquifer, a subsurface drip system is proposed for a high level of watering efficiency. Weather sensors will automatically make adjustments based upon on-site conditions. Other sensors can detect leaks, send alerts, and shut down the parts of the system that are leaking, all while continuing to irrigate elsewhere.

14. Who will be responsible for post-construction landscape maintenance?: The residents within the North Spokane Stormwater Service Area are levied stormwater fees on their bi-yearly property tax bill. The Stormwater Utility will use current and future fees to maintain the CHBRP landscaping.

15. Weeds were a huge nuisance in the channel. How will the CHBRP fix this problem?: The Stormwater Utility will contract with landscape professionals to provide maintenance for the completed project after the warranty period for the project landscaper has expired. The first few years, extra weed abatement will be required until the closely-spaced plants grow in and around each other. At that point, the plantings will naturally block out the weeds. The facility will also have bark mulch to help prevent weed growth.

16. As the native grasses and trees grow, will visibility at the intersections / crossings along Country Homes Boulevard be impaired?: Traffic studies do show that having a barricade of some kind, particularly grasses, shrubs, and trees, may decrease visibility across the median. However, the Stormwater Utility, in cooperation with the project landscape architect, will select appropriate plant material and account for overhang in order to facilitate safe vehicular sight distances at all Country Homes Boulevard intersections / crossings.

17. Will there be permanent signage placed at the site?: The Stormwater Utility has decided not to build interpretive signs along the post-constructed bio-infiltration channel. There are no suitable places to put the signs that will allow passing traffic and pedestrians to safely view them.

18. Since there will not be signs, how will the public be made aware of the CHBRP?: Attractive banners have been placed on light standards along the project corridor, and there are project entrance monuments (5 at each end of project) that "tell the story", in essence, from precipitation to stormwater runoff to water quality treatment. The banners meet the criteria for outreach and education as required by the Washington State Department of Ecology.

19. Will wildlife be enticed to nest or live in the bio-infiltration swale?: Country Homes Boulevard is a very busy road and, as such, would be a dangerous place for animals to be, in addition to a vehicular hazard.

Deer, small animals, birds, coyote, moose, etc., are already frequently spotted in the area, including at the Price and Wall Regional Stormwater Facility and in surrounding neighborhoods, due to the proximity to the vegetated hillside of the Five Mile bluff. The bluff provides important habitat for area wildlife. It is highly unlikely that more animals will come to the project area, let alone live or nest in it permanently, as it is a very busy, noisy corridor that is simply not conducive to nesting species.

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Public Works - Environmental Programs

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1. What is a floodplain?: A floodplain is any land area adjoining a river, stream, water-course, major drainageway, wetland, low lying area, or lake that is likely to flood.

2. What is floodplain management?: Floodplain management includes methods used for preserving the natural function of floodplains and reducing flood damage through floodplain management regulations.

3. What is a 100-year flood?: This term is a statistical designation meaning that there is a 1-in-100 or 1% chance that a flood this size will happen during any given year.

4. Who determines where these floodplains are located?: The floodplains in Spokane County have been identified on maps, which were produced by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as part of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The maps are available for review at the Spokane County Engineer’s Office or online.

5. Why does Spokane County have floodplain regulations?: When Spokane County joined the NFIP, we were required to adopt and enforce floodplain management regulations for participation. By participating in the NFIP, property owners in Spokane County are able to purchase insurance against flood losses.

6. Is development allowed in a floodplain?: Yes, but all development is subject to the requirements of the Spokane County Flood Ordinance and the NFIP.

7. When is a Floodplain Development Permit required?: Developing property, all or a portion of which is in a regulated floodplain, requires a Floodplain Development Permit. This permit will identify the specific requirements for each proposed project. Prior to Floodplain Permit release, all plans must be reviewed to ensure that they meet the requirements of the Spokane County Flood Ordinance.

8. What is considered development?: Development includes, but is not limited to buildings, homes, manufactured and mobile homes, other structures, bridges, culverts, dredging, filling, grading, paving, excavation, docks, boat lifts, seawalls, bulkheads, etc.

9. What are the Floodplain Requirements “A” Zones?: “A” Zone is an area that has been determined to be in the 100-year flood which may or may not have base flood elevations and flood hazard factors determined. A more complete description of “A” Zone is located on each

10. What are the floodplain requirements for my residential/commercial structure?: In areas where flood elevations are known, the lowest floor including basement must be a least one (1) foot above the base flood elevation. Base flood elevation, also known as the BFE or 100-year flood, is the term used for a flood having a one (1) percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year and the elevation at which it may occur.

If flood elevations are not known in the area you are developing, a site inspection by the Spokane County Floodplain Management staff is required. If it is not clear that the proposed home will be outside of the floodplain, the applicant is asked if they could relocate to a safer (clearly out of the floodplain) area upon the property. The applicant may also hire an engineer to more precisely delineate the floodplain and establish a BFE for the property. Construction of the lowest floor including basement must be one (1) foot above the newly established BFE. Residential homes must elevate above the BFE and commercial structures have the option to flood proof above the BFE.

11. What are the floodplain requirements for dock projects?: Dock projects do not require a Floodplain Development Permit unless fill is being imported to the site or docks are fixed (not floating). Fill includes, but is not limited to gravel, sand, rock, concrete pads, bulkheads, seawalls, rip rap, etc.

12. What are the floodplain requirements for fill, grading, excavation and crossing structures?: You can read over the requirements on the Development Requirements page.

13. What is a "B" zone?: “B” Zone is the area that lies between the 100-year flood and 500-year flood. Flooding depth and contributing drainage area is also addressed in the “B” Zone. A more complete description of “B” Zone is located on each FIRM key.

14. What if my property is associated with a “B” Zone floodplain?: “B” Zone floodplains are treated the same as unnumbered “A” Zone floodplains. For “B” Zones, generally, no flood insurance is required.

15. What is a "C" zone?: “C” Zones are areas of minimal flooding.

16. What if my property is associated with a “C” Zone floodplain?: If your property is located in a “C” Zone no Floodplain Development Permit is required.

17. What are the requirements for additions or improvements to structures?: Any repair, reconstruction or improvement to a structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds fifty (50) percent of the fair market value of the structure requires a Floodplain Development Permit. Any addition, no matter what the cost, will also require a Floodplain Development Permit. All other conditions apply.

18. What are the requirements for floodproofing?: Residential homes must elevate above the BFE and commercial structures have the option to flood proof above the BFE. A licensed engineer or landscape architect must design the flood proofing.

19. What are the fees for development permits?: For Floodplain Development Permits, a fee of $140 and a bond of $750 will be charged. The bond will be refunded upon presentation, to Spokane County, of a completed Elevation Certificate.

20. What is an Elevation Certificate?: The Elevation Certificate is a form used by FEMA that records the elevation of the lowest floor for structures built on property all or a portion of which is in a regulated floodplain.

21. Why is an Elevation Certificate required?: (1) Our Flood Ordinance requires it to document compliance with permit conditions.
(2) Elevation Certificates are the only official document used by FEMA to determine whether a structure is inside or outside a floodplain.
(3) Elevation Certificates are used to determine the proper rate when purchasing flood insurance.

22. When is an Elevation Certificate required?: If the floodplain associated with your structure has flood elevations, then an Elevation Certificate is required upon completion of construction.

23. Why is an Elevation Certification bond taken?: The bond ensures that the applicant will complete and return an Elevation Certificate to the County once the structure is built. The bond is taken during issuance of a Floodplain Development Permit and will be returned to the applicant after we receive the completed Elevation Certificate.

24. Who can fill out an Elevation Certificate?: Elevation Certificates must be completed and stamped by a surveyor licensed in the State of Washington.

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Public Works - Stormwater Utility

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1. Why am I charged a stormwater fee?

Stormwater fees have been assigned to all properties within Spokane County’s identified Stormwater Service Area, "SWSA" since 1993. Properties within this unincorporated area are charged an annual fee to provide funding for stormwater management plans and basic stormwater services, such as maintaining County-owned drainage systems and natural drainageways that flow in or through the SWSA. The County owns over 10,000 drainage structures that mainly serve roadways. Maintenance of private drainage systems are the responsibility of property owners.

For the most part, stormwater from County roads flows into facilities such as ditches, drywells or swales, that allows infiltration into the ground. The stormwater eventually infiltrates the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer, the sole source of drinking water for the greater Spokane area, or around 400,000 residents.

The Stormwater Utility is responsible for overseeing the requirements of the County’s NPDES permit, or National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System, which includes public education, inspection of County maintenance and other facilities to eliminate practices that may pollute our water, training of maintenance and construction personnel to assure they are up to date on special requirements of the permit, and much more. The Utility employs 6.5 full-time employees and also designs and manages multiple construction and maintenance projects and contracts each year.

REPORT POLLUTANTS IN STORM DRAINS OR PUBLIC STREETS BY CALLING (509)477-7525.

2. How are stormwater fees calculated?: Average single-family homes, duplexes and triplexes are charged a flat fee per unit per year. Other properties are charged based on the amount of hard surface (rooftop, parking lot, gravel, storage lot, areas where the natural vegetation has been disturbed for parking, driving, etc.) on the property. View more information about the Stormwater Fees.

3. Why has my stormwater fee changed?: If additional structures or impervious surfaces have been added to the property, the stormwater charge will increase. Periodically, the county receives new data, such as aerial photographs, which are used to update the billing for properties such as farms.

4. Who can I talk to about general concerns regarding flooding in my neighborhood?: Please use the Help Form to leave your contact information and a general description of your concern. Someone from the Stormwater Utility Section will contact you. You can also call our office 509-477-3600 during regular business hours.

5. How do I report a flooding problem on my property or in my home?: Each situation is unique, please use the Help Form to provide detailed information regarding your situation, or call 509-477-3600 to report the problem.

6. Who do I report a drainage or flooding concern, that isn't on my property, to?

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 use the Help Form, or call 509-477-3600 to report the problem.

Fill out the Help Form.

7. Where can I find the Spokane Regional Stormwater Manual?: The Spokane Regional Stormwater Manual (SRSM) was adopted on June 1, 2008 and will be applied to new projects as of that date. The SRSM is considered an equivalent manual to the Stormwater Management Manual for Eastern Washington (published by Department of Ecology in September 2004) and replaces the Spokane County Guidelines for Stormwater Management.

View the Stormwater Manual (PDF)

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Public Works - Traffic

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1. Can I get a stop sign installed to slow down traffic in my neighborhood?: Installing stop signs to slow traffic has not been effective. Additionally, installing a stop sign for the sole purpose of slowing traffic is not allowed by the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, this manual is the standard by which all public roads are signed.

2. When I see the red lights flashing on a school bus, when do I need to stop?: You are on a two-lane roadway (one lane in each direction) or you are on a multiple lane roadway (three or more lanes) and you are traveling in the same direction as the bus. See the code RCW 46.61.

3. Why do some roads have painted stripes and others do not?: Paved arterials with a few exceptions are striped; local access roads are typically not striped. The exception is when the pavement width of the arterial is too narrow, typically 20 feet or narrower. View the Arterial Road Map (PDF).

4. I was told if I flash my headlights while approaching a traffic signal it will change to a green light. Is this true?: No, what is changing the signal to green is a traffic detector that detects vehicles approaching the signal.

5. I have a deaf/blind child, how do I get a deaf/blind warning sign for the road in front of my house?: Please complete the following form and mail the completed form to Spokane County. You can also call 509-477-3600. A request form with instructions will be mailed to you.

Request for Deaf/Blind Child Warning Sign (PDF)

6. When I drive through a 20 mph school zone, what does "When Children Are Present" mean?: On school days the 20 miles per hour school speed limit is enforced under the following conditions:
- School children are occupying or walking within the marked crosswalk.
- School children are waiting at the curb or on the shoulder of the roadway and are about to cross the roadway by way of the marked crosswalk.
- School children are present or walking along the roadway, either on the adjacent sidewalk or, in the absence of sidewalks, on the shoulder within the posted school speed limit zone extending 300 feet, or other distance established by regulation, in either direction from the marked crosswalk.(ref. WAC 468-95-350 and Spokane County Code Section 46.61.4160)

7. How do I get a "School Bus Stop Ahead" sign?: "School Bus Stop Ahead" signs are only placed where there is inadequate sight distance for approaching traffic to see a stopped bus. Only requests received from a school are evaluated by Spokane County. Please contact your local school district.

8. How are speed limits established?: Spokane County has what are considered blanket speed limits. Paved roads in the rural areas are 45 mph and all gravel roads are 35 mph. In the urban area local access roads are 25 mph and all arterials are 35 mph. However, there are exceptions; the exceptions are listed in the Spokane County Code. The Spokane County Code can be accessed by viewing Chapter 46.61 "Rules of the Road".

9. How can I get a speed limit raised/lowered?: Speed limits can only be changed through the code revision process. This entails; an engineering study performed by Spokane County to determine the appropriate speed limit and a public hearing in front of the Spokane County Commissioners. At the public hearing concerned citizens can speak for/against the revision to the speed limit and then after public input the Commissioners vote on the code revision.

10. What is Spokane County's policy regarding "Children at Play" signs?: The "Children at Play" warning sign is not approved for use on public roads in the State of Washington. An informational sign "Children in Area, Please Drive Carefully" has been allowed for use on private property adjacent to County roads in Spokane County. It is the maximum size allowed by the Spokane County Zoning Code. The public right of way is typically 25 to 30 feet on each side of the road centerline. For sign requests or assistance determining the right of way width call 509-477-3600 or email request to our office.

11. I noticed what I believe is an unsafe area along a road that could use some guardrail, how is this requested?: The request will be reviewed and you will be contacted with the results. Call 509-477-3600 or email requests to our office.

12. I live on a private road, (typically with a "Lane" designation). Who maintains the signs?: Spokane County does not maintain private road signs. Usually the road and signs are maintained by a homeowners association. To have the signs maintained, please call a local sign company.

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Recording

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1. How do I obtain a process server license?: You can obtain a process server license by completing an application and paying a $10 annual fee. Licenses must be renewed yearly.

2. Where do I obtain a business license?: If you reside within city limits, please contact that city for information regarding its requirements. If you are in the unincorporated area of Spokane County, please contact the Auditor's Office at 509-477-2270.

3. Does the recording department supply blank documents of forms?: No. We do not provide blank documents or forms. Most office supply or stationary stores carry legal forms. You may also obtain forms at the Washington State Bar Association page.

4. Does the recording department have birth and death certificates?: Original birth and death records after 1907 are maintained by the Spokane County Regional Health District, Vital Statistics at 509-324-1522. There are only a few original records beginning with 1886 through 1907 available in the recording department.

5. Would the recording department accept the National UCC Form for recordation?: Yes. The recording department records the national form with the standard document fee as of June 26, 2009.

6. Where do I obtain information regarding divorce or probate records?: Please contact the Clerk's Office.

7. What kinds of documents are recorded in the recording department?: The recording department records a variety of documents, including real estate documents, liens, community property agreements, power of attorney, military discharges, maps and surveys.

8. What are the recording fees?: We accept cash, check and debit or credit cards. Please make checks payable to "Spokane County Auditor." For more information please see the
recording filing and fee schedule.

9. How do I do a title search?: All records in our office are indexed by the names of the grantor and grantee, not by address. Tracing a chain of title can be time-consuming. To ensure a title search is done completely and accurately, we suggest you contact a title insurance company.

10. How do I get a copy of my deed?: You can request a copy of your deed from our office in person, by phone or by mail.

11. How can I find some information about a house for sale or in foreclosure?: You may search our records with the owner's name. If you do not have the owner's name but do have the street address or parcel number, you can get the information by using the Assessor's online access to property information. If you wish to search for foreclosures within a specific geographic area, you may search our records by document type (Notice of Trustee's Sale) and match the legal description to the area you are interested.

12. What happens to my document when it is presented for recording?: The document is reviewed for document formatting standards. If the document meets the standards and the correct fees have been paid, the document is assigned an Auditor File Number and a bar code label is placed on the document with the number and the date and time of recording. The document is optically scanned. The day after the document is recorded, our data entry staff will index the document so it can be located in the future. Your original document will be returned to the address typed on the document. If the original document is ever lost or misplaced, a certified copy may be obtained from our office.

13. I received a document in the mail that says "Reconveyance" or "Substitution of Trustee and Full Reconveyance" on it. What is it?: This document means your Deed of Trust has been paid in full. You have either made the final payment on the mortgage on your property, or you refinanced your property.

14. How do I add or remove a name from my property?: Real estate documents are legal instruments. In order to ensure you are protected and your transaction is completed correctly, we suggest you consult an attorney or title insurance company.

15. Are your documents available online?: No. The only documents viewable online are maps and surveys. The index to the recorded documents is also viewable and searchable online. The images of the recorded documents are not available on-line because some documents, such as IRS liens and some loans, may contain sensitive personal information. The images of the recorded documents are public record and can be viewed at our public terminals in the Recording department during our normal business hours.

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Risk Management

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1. Can I arrange to meet with the Claims Investigator assigned to my claim?: Most claims are resolved without the necessity of an in person meeting. However, if you want to meet in person with the assigned Claims Investigator, please call first to make an appointment. The Claims Investigators are not available for drop-in visits as they are frequently out in the field.

2. Do I have to submit a Claim for Damages form to make a claim?: Yes, this requirement is mandatory to start the claim process.

3. How do I file a claim against Spokane County?: You may obtain a copy of claim forms and instructions from this website or contact Risk Management at 509-477-3617 to have claim forms mailed to you. The claim forms must be completed, signed, and then mailed or delivered to:
Spokane County Risk Management
1033 W Gardner Avenue
Spokane, WA 99260

4. How long will the investigation take?: The length of time the investigation takes is dependent upon the type of claim filed. Some claims are fully resolved in several weeks, while the investigation of other claims may take a number of months. All claims are investigated through a process which may include the contact of various departments, witnesses, scene investigations, recorded statements and document review.

5. How much time will it take to get a settlement check?: After a claim or settlement has been approved and we are in receipt of the original, properly executed release and W-9 form, it will normally take up to 10 working days for the check request to be processed and the check mailed to you.

6. I filled out a report when I was involved in an incident/accident. Do I still need to file a claim form?: Yes. You must complete a claim form if you feel Spokane County is responsible for your loss, injury or damages.

7. I need a rental vehicle because my vehicle is badly damaged, or unsafe to drive. How can I get a rental vehicle?: Prior to a claim being filed and investigated, Spokane County cannot authorize reimbursement for a rental vehicle. If you need to rent a vehicle it is your own decision. Please understand that the Claims Investigator must complete an investigation to determine responsibility prior to any authorization of a rental vehicle. You may consider contacting your own automobile insurance for assistance in the meantime. Should you choose to rent a vehicle prior to authorization, you may be responsible for all or part of that expense.

8. I was injured on County property, or by a County vehicle, who is going to pay my medical expenses?: You are responsible for all medical care and expenses you incur. If you believe Spokane County is responsible for your injuries you must file a claim, and the circumstances surrounding your injury will be investigated. If a settlement is warranted it may include your medical bills.

9. If I have damage to my vehicle or property, do I need to submit more than one repair estimate?: Typically, 2 repair estimates should be submitted for property loss and 3 estimates should be submitted for vehicle repairs. If you already paid for repairs, please submit the bill and paid receipt.

10. Should I contact my own insurance company regarding this incident?: At your discretion, you may want to inquire about coverage provided by your own insurance company.

11. Should I obtain estimates for the damage to my property or automobile?: Yes. Estimates, or receipts, to support your claim may be necessary to establish your loss or damages.

12. What are the considerations in evaluating a claim?: The considerations in evaluating a claim include the particular facts of the alleged loss, the applicable law, the nature and extent of the damages claimed, whether Spokane County had legal responsibility, and the claimant’s role in the situation.

13. What recourse do I have if my claim was denied?: You can appeal the decision to the Risk Manager. Consideration will be given if new or additional information is submitted that support your appeal. Although we can not provide legal advice, you have legal remedies including the right to consult an attorney at law; however, all fees and cost associated with your consult are at your own expense.

14. When will a Claims Investigator contact me?: A Claims Investigator will generally contact you in writing within two to three business days after the assignment of your claim. This typically occurs within two weeks after a claim is submitted. Your assigned claims investigator will identify the claim number and other documentation needed to investigate your claim.

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SCRAPS

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1. No longer own your pet?

Get in touch with the DocuPet customer service team to update your record by calling 1-877-239-6072 or emailing info@docupet.com.

Email DocuPet

2. Pet lost?: DocuPet’s HomeSafe Lost Pet Service can help. Login to your profile and report your pet lost using the red button. An email will go out to community members letting them know how they can help.
Login Now

3. Wondering when your pet tag will arrive?: Typically pet tags are received in the mail 10 to 12 business days after your order is processed. You can login any time and access your profile on scraps.docupet.com and not to worry, our county records will show you have an active license.

4. Need a replacement tag?: Order a replacement by logging into your online account and clicking the green “order replacement tags” button or call 1-877-239-6072 to order over the phone.
Login to DocuPet

5. Have a question about licensing or the DocuPet program?

Contact customer service at: 1-877-239-6072

Get in touch with SCRAPS. Call 509-477-2532.

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Sewer Billing

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1. When is my monthly bill due?

Payments of all charges on the sewer bill are due by the 25th day of each month or the following business day should the 25th fall on a weekend or holiday.

If the charges on a monthly sewer bill are not paid when due, there shall be added to the charges a one time late payment penalty of 10% of the latest billed amount. Additionally, 8% interest per year will be applied to all sewer charges that have not been paid by the due date from the date due until paid.

If you are concerned about your monthly billing statement, please contact our office in Spokane at 509-477-3604 between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday and 7:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. Fridays (excluding Holidays).

2. Where do I mail my payment?

For regular payments, mail them to the Environmental Services Department at:

Spokane County Environmental Services
P.O. Box 2355
Spokane, WA 99210-2355

For CFR, GFC, SCC, partial payments and payoffs, please call our office at (509) 477-3604

3. How do I change my address for my sewer bill?

Sewer Billing Address Change Request This is for current property owners to change or update their mailing address for their sewer bills/statements.

If you are a property owner needing to add a tenant or property manager, please choose and fill out the proper authorization letter located here Sewer Billing Forms.

4. When are the monthly sewer bills mailed?: Charges for the sewer service are billed to customers on a monthly basis, during the first 5 business days of the month.

5. What are the current sewer charges and rates?: Learn more from our page on Sewer Bill monthly Charges.

6. What is a Reduced Rate Residence?

It is a 20% discount of the monthly sewer service fees for a qualifying senior or disabled property owner's single-family residence or duplex dwelling unit.

To qualify, the property owner must first have an active property tax exemption for that residence. Please contact our office once you have an active property tax exemption.

Please contact the Assessor's Office for property tax exemption information.

Assessor's Office

7. What is a Sewer Service Fee?: The "Sewer Service Fee" is a monthly fee charged to all properties connected to the sewer system, and to those properties for which the established connection deadline has passed. The "Sewer Service Fee" is comprised of the Operation and Maintenance Fee and the Wastewater Treatment Plant Charge.

8. How is the monthly Operation and Maintenance charge calculated?: For additional information view our page at Sewer Bill monthly Charges.

9. What is Operation and Maintenance?: "Operation and Maintenance" is the portion of the monthly Sewer Service Fee that is charged to defray the cost of operating, maintaining and repairing the system of sewerage. (8.08.1495)

10. What is a prepayment period for the Capital Facilities Rate?: The Prepayment Period is the 30-day period immediately prior to commencement of the Capital Facilities Rate (CFR) billing, wherein the property owner can prepay the entire CFR and avoid interest charges.

11. What is a Capital Facilities Rate?: The "Capital Facilities Rate", or "CFR", is that portion of the monthly sewer charges for a property within a sewer project (constructed in years 1997 through 2011) that is attributable to the costs of acquiring, constructing and installing the system of sewerage. The CFR assigned to a property is calculated on a per ERU basis.

The CFR charge is not an assessment and will not show up on a title search.

This charge will need to be disclosed by the owner to prospective buyers if you are preparing to sell the property. Please contact the Environmental Services Department to request a sewer summary form.

If you sell your property, the balance of the CFR may be paid off at the time of sale or may be assumed by the new owner.

12. What is a General Facilities Charge?: The "General Facilities Charge, or GFC," is a charge collected from all sewer customers to support regional components of the system. This includes the Spokane County Regional Water Reclamation Facility, capacity purchased by the County in City of Spokane's Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant, interceptor sewers, pump stations, and other components of the sewer system identified by the County as general facilities.

13. What is an Equivalent Residential Unit?: One Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU) is equal to 800 cubic feet of metered water usage per month. Each single-family residence, mobile home (where two or less occupy the same parcel) and each half of a duplex building is deemed to represent one ERU. Each multi-family dwelling unit is deemed to represent 0.7 of an ERU. Each commercial unit and manufactured home park is assigned one ERU for each 800 cubic feet of metered non-irrigation water usage per month.

14. How is my payment credited to my account?: Payments are applied to the oldest unpaid charges.

15. What happens if I don't pay my monthly sewer bill?

If the charges on a monthly sewer bill are not paid when due, a one time late payment penalty of 10% of the latest billed amount are added to the charges.

Additionally, interest is attached and accrued on unpaid charges computed at a rate of 8% per annum starting on the next day after the billing due date until paid. Interest is computed on the entire unpaid balance.

Accounts that are in excess of 60 days delinquent may receive a past due statement and delinquency notice. The notice will be mailed to interested parties known to the Environmental Services Department (known parties may include Owner, Mortgage Company, Landlord and Occupant in the case of rental property) regarding the delinquent amount. The delinquency notice will list the amount of charges in arrears, and will explain that the customer must pay the charges within 30 days from the date of the notice to avoid a lien.

The lien will be filed for all delinquent rates, fees and/or charges due in accordance with Spokane County Ordinance 8.03.9040 (Payment-Delinquency-Lien). The lien amount will include late payment penalties together with accrued interest at 8% per annum from the date due until paid. The lien will attach and foreclose pursuant to RCW 36.94.150 and RCW 35.67.215. The County's sewerage lien shall attach for up to one year's delinquent charges without the necessity of any writing or recording of the lien with the County Auditor pursuant to RCW 36.94.150 and RCW 35.67.215. A lien for more than one year's delinquent sewer charges shall attach upon certification of the delinquent charges by the Environmental Services Department to the Spokane County Auditor. The Environmental Services Department may periodically amend these lien certifications.

All costs associated with filing and releasing of a lien, such as filing fees and administrative costs, together with the lien certification amounts, shall be paid to the Environmental Services Department prior to the release of the lien.

The monthly billing statements will show that a lien exists and will give the sum of all charges, for which a lien has been filed. The lien will be released upon payment in full.

Under the Revised Code of Washington, Spokane County may bring a foreclosure action against the property 60 days after the attachment of the lien.

16. Whose responsibility is it to make payments?: All sewer charges, fees, penalties and interest shall be paid by the property owner or by a tenant or agent whom the property owner has authorized in writing for the Environmental Services Department to bill. Each property owner shall remain fully responsible for all sewer charges, fees, penalties, and interest with respect to his/her property, whether such charges were incurred by or on account of him/herself or on account of some other person or business.

If you are the owner of rented or leased property and want to add a tenant/property management company and receive a courtesy copy of the monthly bill, please fill out the appropriate Letter of Authorization Form.

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Sewer Connection

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1. My septic tank works fine, so why do I have to connect to the sewer system?: To eliminate the possibility of the effluent (partially treated sewage from your septic tank and drain field) from leaching into groundwater. Each property is required by County Code to connect to the sewer and abandon their septic tank within one year of being notified of the availability of sewer service.

2. What happens if I do not connect?: Failure to comply with the requirement to connect to sewer by the deadline will cause our office to turn the matter over to the Spokane County Prosecuting Attorney for legal action.

3. Can a contractor "mark-up" the cost of the sewer connection permit?: Spokane County does not get involved in what a contractor charges you for the permit(s) or any other aspect of your contract. We suggest that you get at least three written bids prior to signing a contract for your sewer connection.

4. Can I do the sewer work myself?: Yes, the sewer connection work can be performed by the property owner provided that the owner attends an on-site consultation with Wastewater System Division personnel prior to doing the work. Signed agreement to the consultation is required prior to permit issuance. The property owner cannot perform work within the public right-of-way. There are significant potential risks related to digging and working in trenches and Spokane County recommends the property owner give careful consideration to the risks and liability before undertaking this work.

5. Can I drain my swimming pool into the sewer?: No. The Spokane County sewer system is designed and intended for sanitary sewer usage only. Draining swimming pools into the system would reduce the capacity in the collection lines and the capacity in the treatment plants. Your monthly sewer bill is based on water usage in your home. A single family dwelling is billed based on an average monthly water usage of 800 cubic-feet. Discharging your swimming pool would exceed the amount of usage you are billed for.

6. Can I have a RV dump on my parcel?: Yes, if it is located on your residential property, but you need to discuss this with a Wastewater System Division staff person prior to construction / installation. The RV dump cannot be used to serve an RV or mobile home that serves as a residence. It is only allowed for occasional use by the owner of the property and cannot be used as a community or family RV dump. If it is to be used as a commercial RV Dump, plans would have to be submitted to the Spokane County Wastewater System Division for approval and sewer connection fees and usage fees would have to be determined and satisfied.

7. Can I pipe floodwater from my basement or foundation drains into the sewer?: No. The Spokane County sewer system is designed and intended for sanitary sewer usage only. Pumping floodwater from your basement or foundation drains into the system would reduce the capacity in the collection lines and the capacity in the treatment plants. Your monthly sewer bill is based on water usage in your home. A single family dwelling is billed based on an average monthly water usage of 800 cubic-feet. Discharging sump pumps or foundation drains would exceed the amount of usage you are billed for.

8. Can I pipe the roof runoff into the sewer?: No. This answer is similar to the above answer pertaining to swimming pools. In addition, roof runoff is considered stormwater, and Washington State Law prohibits the injection of stormwater into a sanitary sewer system.

9. Can I put a floor drain in my shop / garage and connect it to the sewer?: Usually not. The Spokane County Wastewater System Division reviews these requests on a case by case basis. If allowed, you will probably be required to install a sand trap and an oil-water separator to prevent soils and oil from entering the Spokane County Sanitary Sewer System.

10. Can my next-door neighbor and I share a common trench with our sewer pipes?: Yes, but first, a private sewer easement must be established and the easement document must be recorded with the Spokane County Auditor's Office. A copy of that easement document must be provided to the Wastewater System Division before a sewer connection permit will be issued.

11. Does my septic tank have to be removed?: No, it can remain in place. A licensed septic tank pumper must remove the contents of the tank, and your excavation contractor is required to fill the empty tank with sand, pea gravel, or clean native material. If the septic tank is not filled at the time of sewer connection and inspection, a separate permit and inspection is required by the Spokane Regional Health District for abandonment of the septic tank.

12. How should I go about hiring a side sewer contractor?: View this document on how to hire a contractor.

13. How long is a sewer permit good for?: Sewer connection permits expire 12 months from date of issuance.

14. How much does it cost for a contractor to connect my property to sewer?

The cost varies depending on how much digging is involved and if the residence or business connection has basement facilities. The Wastewater System Division recommends that at least 3 written bids be obtained from licensed sewer excavation contractors. Most residential connections cost in the range of $3,000 to $5,000. If there is significant landscaping or pavement that the contractor is required to restore, the cost can increase substantially.

In addition to the connection costs, each property is required to pay a Capital Facilities Rate (CFR) to Spokane County, which covers a share of the cost of constructing the collection sewers, interceptor sewers, pumping stations and treatment facilities.

15. I have a large enough parcel to subdivide. What are the sewer service requirements?: Current policy allows a 4-inch sewer service to serve a single family home or a duplex. A 6-inch sewer service will serve 3 single family homes, or a duplex and 1 single family home. The service requirements for developments in excess of 3 lots and high-density developments may require design by a licensed engineer and are subject to review by the Wastewater System Division.

16. What does a sewer connection permit cost?: As of April 1, 2019 the sewer connection permit fee is $130 plus a $27.12 application fee, for a total of $157.12 for each building connecting to the sewer. A separate sewer connection permit is required for each tax parcel. If each side of a duplex is located on its own parcel, a permit is required for each side. A parcel with multiple buildings will be charged a sewer connection permit fee for each building connecting to the sewer. All buildings on a single parcel can be included on a single connection permit. The sewer connection permit fee and the application fee are subject to future increases.

17. What happens if I do not have the money to connect?: If you meet applicable low-income thresholds, you may qualify for assistance. Please call us at 509-477-3604 to inquire.

To apply for an Extension of Time for sewer connection, please contact us at 509-477-3604. Although an extension may be granted, you will still be required to connect to the sewer.

18. When do I have to complete my connection to the sewer system?: The Wastewater System Division sends notification letters to property owners establishing the mandatory one-year connection period and connection deadline for their property. If you have any questions relative to the connection status of your property or your connection deadline, please call the Wastewater System Division at 509-477-3604.

19. Where is my sewer connection (stub)?: The Wastewater System Division has records for sewer stub locations and can mail, email, fax or in some instances describe the location over the phone. Drawings of the sewer stub location as well as the sewer pipe connection for the building can be viewed on the Wastewater System Division website via the Sewer Connections button.

20. Why do I need a permit to connect to the sewer?: When your property is connected to the sewer system, a Spokane County inspector generates a Sewer Connection Inspection Report with a drawing showing where the sewer line(s), fittings, clean-outs, etc. are located in the event those items need to be located in the future for repairs, additions, or other improvements to the property. In addition, the sewer inspector observes the actual connection to make sure that it complies with Spokane County standards. Revenue from sewer connection permit fees pays for the cost of inspecting your sewer connection and all of the necessary data and record keeping pertaining to how and when your property was connected to the Spokane County Sewer System.

21. Why does the monthly sewer service fee keep going up?: The increase in monthly sewer service fees is necessary to cover operating cost for the collection systems and treatment plants. Also, the County needs to fund significant capital improvement projects at the wastewater treatment plants that are necessary to meet stringent regulatory requirements for protection of water quality in the Spokane River.

22. Will Spokane County complete my sewer connection for me?: No, the County will not perform work on private property to connect a structure to the stub at the property line.

If a property has a dryline sewer from the structure to the property line, the street end of the dryline sewer may be connected to the sewer main as part of the sewer construction in the right of way. The property owner still must complete the connection at the house to divert sewage through the dryline and complete the abandonment of the septic tank. A sewer connection permit is still required to complete the connection.

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Solid Waste

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1. Who operates the North County and Valley transfer stations?: The Spokane County Regional Solid Waste System has contracted with Waste Connections of Washington, Inc. for operations, maintenance, transport, and disposal services of solid waste materials received at the North County and Valley Transfer Stations. The contract will ensure the continuous operation of both transfer stations that became part of the new Spokane County Regional Solid Waste System as of November 17, 2014.

2. What are the locations and hours of operation for the transfer stations?

See the upcoming changes to the hours of operation starting January 4th, 2021. Current addresses/hours of operation are:

The Spokane County North Transfer Station - 22123 N Elk-Chattaroy Road, Colbert, WA 99005
The Spokane County Valley Transfer Station - 3941 N Sullivan Road, Spokane Valley, WA 99216
The City of Spokane’s Waste-to-energy (WTE) Facility - 2900 S Geiger Blvd, Spokane, WA 99208

Hours of Operation

Winter Hours (November 1 through March 31): 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., 7 days a week.

Seasonal Hours (April 1 through October 31): 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., 7 days a week

For the City of Spokane’s Waste-to-energy facility’s hours of operation, current rate(s) information, and accepted materials, please visit the City of Spokane’s Waste-to-energy (WTE) Facility website. See the current information for the North and Valley transfer stations below:

3. What are the current fees at the transfer stations?

See the upcoming changes to the gate fee starting January 1st, 2021.

Current rates and services:

Current Rate (Fees)	Trash: A minimum charge of $15 for first 280 pounds or $108.00 per ton, plus a $2 Environmental Programs Charge (EPC) per vehicle. Clean Green and Yard Waste Debris: A minimum charge of $8 for 300 pounds or $52.00 per ton, plus a $2 Environmental Programs Charge (EPC) per vehicle.
Services Offered	Trash disposal: Monday through Sunday * Recycling drop-off: Monday through Sunday HHW drop-off: Saturdays and Sundays only

* The Spokane County transfer stations are now requiring all recyclable items to be "source separated." For more information, visit our Recycling page.

For information on acceptable items at the Spokane County Transfer Stations, please visit our "Materials Accepted at Spokane County’s Transfer Stations" page.

4. What can I bring to the Spokane County Transfer Stations?

Items that can be dropped off at Transfer Stations include :

For more information on acceptable items at the Transfer Stations, please visit our Materials Accepted at Spokane County’s Transfer Stations page or call the Regional Solid Waste Hotline at (509) 477-6880.

5. What can I recycle at the transfer stations?

Reducing waste by recycling is one of the Spokane County Regional Solid Waste System’s main objectives. There are many options for recycling in our area, and recycling can reduce your costs. Due to recent market shifts, sorted recyclables have a higher value than comingled recyclables. New cleanliness standards have been imposed on recycling worldwide, resulting in much higher processing costs for commingled recycling. With your help, we can bypass these unsustainable processing costs and keep recycling available for County residents at our transfer stations. We are asking residents for their help in returning to the practice (pre-2015) of sorting recyclables when dropping them off at the transfer stations. Each of these items will have to be sorted into their designated groups before drop-off:

Glass
Plastics, Nos. 1 and 2
Flattened cardboard
Magazines, cereal boxes, paper bags and egg cartons
Colored paper and manila envelopes
White office paper and newspaper
Tin cans and scrap metal
Aluminum cans

For more information about what you can and can’t recycle at the Spokane County transfer stations, please visit our Recycle Right, Spokane County! webpage.

6. How do I receive curbside garbage and recycling pickup?: In Spokane County, designated haulers provide residential and commercial garbage collection, recycling, and/or yard debris collection service in specific areas. All questions pertaining to curbside collection should be directed toward your service provider. The service provider will inform you of your collection day, services provided, and the cost of those services. For more information on who your designated hauler might be, please visit our Curbside Garbage and Recycling page.

7. How can I get a commercial account at the North County or Valley Transfer Station?: Businesses can apply for an account through Spokane County. Download and fill out this document to apply for a commercial solid waste account at the North or Valley transfer station(s).

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Stream Flow Mitigation Certificates

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1. What is a Stream Flow Mitigation Certificate?: Stream Flow Mitigation Certificates (mitigation certificates) allow an exempt well user to use a well for domestic use and not be subject to the Little Spokane River Instream Flow Rule (WAC 173-555). A Stream Flow Mitigation Certificate is “backed” by a valid water right owned by Spokane County and held in trust by the State of Washington. The water right in trust has a priority date before WAC 173-555, which means if water users in the Little Spokane River Basin were ever curtailed (required to reduce water use) based on WAC 173-555 a mitigation certificate holder would not be subject to that curtailment.

2. Is a Stream Flow Mitigation Certificate required to get a building permit in the Little Spokane River Basin (WRIA 55)?

No. A building permit applicant in WRIA 55 that will use a well constructed prior to January 19, 2018 only needs to provide a water well report (well log).

A building permit applicant that will use a well constructed after January 19, 2018 can either:

Pay a $500 fee and record a water use limitation of 3,000 gallons per day based on an annual average, not to exceed 5,000 gallons per day, on the property title; or
Purchase a Stream Flow Mitigation Certificate.

NOTE: A building permit applicant using a well constructed prior to January 19, 2018 can purchase a Stream Flow Mitigation Certificate to protect against any future curtailment, but is not required to do so.

3. Who is eligible to purchase mitigation certificates?: Any owner of a parcel that is within the approved mitigation area and plans to get a building permit within the next three (3) years or any existing homeowner within the approved mitigation area with a house built after January 6, 1976 that is interested in protecting against any future curtailment.

4. Why would I want a mitigation certificate if I'm not required to get one?

All water rights that have been issued since the adoption of the Little Spokane regulatory instream flow on January 6, 1976 -- including permit exempt wells -- are at risk of curtailment when flows are below those established in the regulation. The holder of a Stream Flow Mitigation Certificate is not at risk of curtailment because it is backed by a water right issued before 1/6/76. Therefore, purchasing a Stream Flow Mitigation Certificate protects the owner against any future water use curtailment.

5. How do I know if my property is in the approved mitigation area?

Find your property on this map to see if it is in the approved mitigation area. If it is still unclear if your property lies within the mitigation area, then use SCOUT, Spokane County's online parcel mapping application, to get a more precise view.

To use SCOUT, follow these instructions:

(1) Go to the SCOUT dashboard (http://cp.spokanecounty.org/scout/SCOUTDashboard/)

(2) Enter and search for your parcel number or address.

(3) Click on the map.

(4) Using the Layers icon ( ScoutLayersImage ), choose Critical Areas, then check Watershed Boundaries (WRIA) AND Water Bank Approved Mitigation Area. This will show you which WRIA you're property is in as well as the area where properties qualify to apply for mitigation certificates in the Little Spokane River watershed (WRIA 55). It can take some time to load the map layers so give it several seconds to load.

6. What if only part of my parcel is in the Approved Mitigation Area?: You are eligible for a mitigation certificate as long as the well serving the residence is located in the Approved Mitigation Area.

7. What happens if I don’t get a building permit within three (3) years?: If a building permit is not obtained within three (3) years of obtaining a mitigation certificate, the cost of the mitigation certificate is refunded minus program administration and recording fees.

8. Is there a limit to the amount of water I can use?: The mitigation certificate provides for indoor and incidental outdoor water and a specific area of outdoor noncommercial irrigation of landscaping and/or garden. Outdoor irrigation is purchased in 1,000 ft² blocks up to a maximum of 21,000 ft². When purchasing a mitigation certificate, the applicant will specify the number of 1,000 ft² blocks to be purchased.

9. What is reasonable domestic indoor and incidental outdoor water use?: Domestic use at one single family residence includes water used for drinking, bathing, sanitary purposes, cooking, and laundering and other incidental household uses. Incidental uses must minimize the consumptive use of water. Examples of incidental household uses include, but are not limited to: washing windows, car washing, cleaning exterior structures, care of household pets, and watering potted plants.

10. How does Spokane County limit the amount of water use?: When purchasing a mitigation certificate, the applicant must also sign a property covenant limiting the amount of water use on the parcel from the onsite well to the amount of the mitigation certificate. To comply with our agreement with the Washington Department of Ecology to offer mitigation certificates Spokane County must report the actual amount of outdoor irrigation based on a review of aerial photography. The applicant must also grant an avigation easement so that Spokane County can utilize other aerial methods to determine compliance with limitations on outdoor irrigation from onsite sources if an aerial photo is not sufficient.

Spokane County has enacted an ordinance that governs the operation of the Little Spokane Water Bank. The ordinance specifies fines for exceeding the outdoor irrigation use allowed by the mitigation certificate. Spokane County will make every attempt to work with the property owner to comply with the limitations of the mitigation certificate before issuing a fine.

11. What if I have livestock?: Livestock watering is not covered by this Mitigation Certificate. Keeping livestock is not associated with any Spokane County permitting activity. Water use associated with keeping livestock is regulated under the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) and the Washington Administrative Code (WAC). Consult the Washington Department of Ecology for questions related to livestock watering in Water Resource Inventory Area (WRIA) 55.

12. What is the process for purchasing a mitigation certificate?

Fill out the paper application and return in person or by mail to:

Spokane County Water Resources
1004 N. Freya St.
Spokane, WA 99202

Once we receive the application we will contact you to provide details on finalizing the purchase, such as the property covenant, avigation easement, and payment.
Please contact us at (509) 477-7578

13. How much does a Stream Flow Mitigation Certificate cost?

The cost of a mitigation certificate is broken into a non-refundable program administration fee, recording fees, and the cost of water as follows:

Program administration fee....................$ 500
Recording fee................................................$ 615.50
Indoor domestic water use......................$ 350
1,000 square feet of lawn/garden........$ 230

EXAMPLE: One (1) residence with 10,000 ft² of outdoor irrigation

Program administration fee......................$ 500
Recording fee...................................................$ 615.50
Indoor domestic water use.........................$ 350
10,000 square feet of lawn/garden....$ 2,300
$ 3,256

14. What happens if I sell my parcel?: The mitigation certificate runs with the parcel and transfers to the new owner.

15. Can I move my mitigation certificate?: A mitigation certificate is specific to a parcel and can only be moved to another location under limited circumstances upon approval of Spokane County.

16. Can I contact someone directly to discuss this?: Yes! If you have any questions that aren't answered here, please contact us via:
-- Phone at (509) 477-7578,

17. Return to Little Spokane River Water Bank web page: To return to the Little Spokane River Water Bank web page...
click here.

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Superior Court Accommodations

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1. How do I schedule a language interpreter?: Please contact the Superior Court ADA Coordinator or the District Court ADA Coordinator depending on where your hearing is scheduled. Please see the Interpreter Services page for additional information. Interpreter Services Page

2. How do I request an accommodation?: Please contact the Superior Court ADA Coordinator or the District Court ADA Coordinator depending on where your hearing is scheduled. Please see the ADA Accommodations and Resources page for additional information. ADA Accommodations and Resources Page

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Superior Court Administrator

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1. I don’t have an attorney and cannot afford one. I might go to Jail. Whom can I call?: If you are facing the potential of jail time and would like legal representation, you may apply for a Public Defender at the Office of Pretrial Services on the 2nd floor of the Public Safety Building. Public Defender Page

2. How do I find an attorney?: There are two handy references you may use; the telephone directory, and the online directory from the Washington State Bar Association. No recommendations can be made. Washington State Bar Association Website

3. How do I find an attorney if I cannot afford one?: If you would like legal representation, but you are not able to afford one, please contact C.L.E.A.R. (Northwest Justice Project - Coordinated Legal Education and Referral System) at 888-201-1014 or, if you are over 65 years of age, you may call 888-387-7111. C.L.E.A.R.

4. Where do I go to obtain court forms?: Family Law Court Forms are available online or at Washington State Court Forms. Family Law Court Forms Page

5. Where can I obtain Washington State legal forms online?: Washington State legal forms are available at Washington State Court Forms.

6. Where do I get my car tags renewed?: Car tags may be renewed online or at the Auditor's Vehicle Licensing Division on the first floor of the Courthouse Annex. Washington State Department of Licensing Website

7. How do I make payments for court imposed obligations I owe?: Contact the County Clerk's Office for the appropriate court for payment of fines. Clerk Page

8. How do I get my voting rights back?: Packets complete with instructions and forms are available online or at the Superior Court Administrator’s Office. Criminal Court Forms Page

9. How do I get my gun rights back?: Packets complete with instructions and forms are available online or at the Superior Court Administrator’s Office. Criminal Court Forms Page

10. How do I vacate my conviction?: Packets complete with instructions and forms are available online or at the Superior Court Administrator’s Office. Criminal Court Forms Page

11. Where do I file a small claims ($5,000 and under) action?: Lawsuits with disputed dollar amounts under $5,000 may be filed with District Court Small Claims on the 2nd floor of the Broadway Center Building. District Court Forms Page

12. Where do I get a Domestic Violence (DV) protection order?: Protection orders where domestic relationship is involved or there are children in common, should begin in the County Clerk’s Office, Room 300 of the County Courthouse. Clerk Page

13. How do I lift a no-contact order?: To lift a no contact order that originated in a felony criminal file, a Superior Court Criminal Motion Form is required and can be picked up at the Court Administrator’s Office. Otherwise the Ex Parte Department for the court where your order originated should be able to assist you. Criminal Court Forms Page

14. Can I talk to the judge directly if I am involved in a case?: Commonly, if you are involved in an active court case, all parties should be present for conversations before the judge. You may wish to contact the Judicial Assistant or Judicial Secretary for procedural information or to schedule an appointment.

15. Where do I go to file an appeal from district or municipal court?: To file an appeal from a court of limited jurisdiction you will need to go to that court for the necessary forms and instructions for appealing to the Superior Court.

16. Where do I go to review a court file or to get copies of a court file?: To review a Superior Court file; please go to the County Clerk’s Office, Room 300 of the Courthouse. For Municipal or District Court files, contact the appropriate court. For copies of court files, a small fee may apply.

17. How do I file documents into a Superior Court file?: Your original document that complies with GR 14 rules and has your case number on it may be deposited in the "file pleadings" box at the County Clerk's Office, Room 300. You may wish to bring a photocopy to confirm for your records.

18. Where can I get a copy of the Local Court Rules?: You can view the Local Court Rules online or at the Spokane County Bar Association located on the 4th floor of the County Courthouse Annex. Local Court Rules Online

19. Where do I get a marriage license?: Marriage licenses are available at the Auditor’s Office, Room 200 of the County Courthouse. Auditor's Office Webpage

20. Can a Judge or Commissioner marry us?: Yes. To schedule your wedding ceremony with a Superior Court Judge or Court Commissioner, you may telephone them or contact them online directly. Marriage Ceremony Providers Page

21. Where can I get a name changed?: Name changes for adults are done through District Court. Forms for name changes for minors (under age 18) are available at the Spokane County Bar Office and then filed with the County Clerk’s Office.

22. Where do I get a birth certificate?: Birth certificates are available from the Spokane Regional Health District or by calling 509-324-1522. Spokane Regional Health District Website

23. Where do I get a copy of a death certificate?: Death certificates are available from the Spokane Regional Health District or by calling 509-324-1522. Spokane Regional Health District Website

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Superior Court Criminal Court

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1. Where can I report a crime?: Contact the Crime Check at 509-456-2233. Crime Check Page

2. Where do I get a concealed weapons permit?

Concealed weapons permits are available at the Police Records information window in the Public Safety Building, 1100 West Mallon Avenue, Spokane.

For more information on CPL and instructions on fingerprinting, visit: https://spokanepdwa.permitium.com/entry.

3. What level of court handles misdemeanor criminal offenses?: Misdemeanor offenses are handled by courts of limited jurisdiction otherwise known as District or Municipal Courts. District Court Page

4. Where do I go to post bond/bail?: Contact District Court, 1st Floor, Public Safety Building, or Superior Court Clerk, Room 300 of the Spokane County Courthouse, 509-477-2211.

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Superior Court Jury Service

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1. While on jury service, when will I call the recording?: On the Friday evening prior to your term, please call the recording (509-477-4720) as requested on your Summons to see if jurors in your Call Group (located in the lower left corner of your Summons) are needed for the first Monday of your term or if you are to call again. However, keep in mind you will not call the recording while you are serving on a trial or still in selection on a trial.

2. While on jury service do I need to feed the parking meter?: If your parking permit is displayed properly and you are parked at a meter within one of the Public Parking lots designated on your County campus map, you will not need to "feed the meter."

3. Where may I park while on jury service?: Only in designated "Public Parking" lots; at meters only. Please refer to your jury service parking map. No street parking is allowed at meters, unless you choose to individually pay at those meters.

4. What if I receive a parking ticket while serving on jury service?: You are responsible for any ticket. The County does not cover parking tickets since we provide parking permits for free parking at meters in the designated lots. Please make sure your parking permit is displayed in the windshield.

5. When will I receive my jury service pay?: You will receive a debit card on the first day you report. The debit card will be loaded with your daily fee and mileage within a week of your jury service. If you serve both weeks you will receive funds separately for each week of service.

6. How can I ride the bus to jury service?: There are 3 ways that you can find the best route to get you there. Please see the Public Transportation page for more information.
Public Transportation Page

7. What about my travel costs while on jury service?: Please report your one-way mileage to Jury Management during your first week of jury service. One-way mileage may be reported by calling 509-477-4722 by Thursday evening of your first week of jury service. The court is unable to make any corrections to your pay for mileage unless it is given to us prior to Friday of your first week.

8. Do I have to release my Social Security Number to the Court while on jury service?: Yes. The IRS requires that your Social Security Number be given to Jury Management in order for the Court to pay for your jury service. The SSN is kept confidential between Jury Management and the Auditor. Your SSN will be purged after payment is issued. If you choose not to release the number, you will not be paid.

9. What if someone calls me about jury service and requests my Social Security Number over the phone?: If a Jury Coordinator or court staff person calls you, you will not be asked to provide your social security number over the phone.

10. How do I get verification for my employer that I was here for jury service?: If you need a daily verification, please ask Jury Management to print the verification for you after you have checked out for the day. If you need a weekly or end-of-term verification, please sign for those on the clipboard. Weekly and end-of-term verification will be mailed to your home. Note: Your Superior Court Verification includes your arrival and departure times.

11. How can I provide my employer with the specific times I am gone from work for jury service?: If your employer has a special form, please give it to Jury Management to complete and mail to you. Be sure to check in with your barcode each day as you arrive, and check out as you are ready to leave. This will provide the appropriate times for your verification. Note: Your Superior Court Verification includes your arrival and departure times.

12. Once I have served on a trial, am I finished with jury service?: Yes. Once you have served on a Jury Trial you will be excused for the remainder of your term.

13. While serving on jury service are there breaks during the day?: Yes. There will always be a lunch hour (usually 12 - 1 p.m. or later) and breaks during the morning and afternoon sessions while serving on a trial. While in the Jury Lounge, you will be informed as soon as Jury Management knows about break times.

14. While serving on jury service how long will I be here during the day?: There is no absolute begin or end-time for jury service. However, the court will normally schedule their trials within County office hours (8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.).

15. While on jury service will I be sequestered?: Most likely you will not be sequestered. In Spokane County there have only been a few juries sequestered in many years.

16. If I am serving on jury service for a trial, do I need to call the recording?: No. We are aware when you are serving on a trial and will not expect you to check the recording until that trial has been completed. When you are released from the court, the Judge or Judicial Assistant will inform you when you will begin the call-in procedure.

17. What happens if I have a 1-day conflict in this 2-week term of jury service?: Write a brief note explaining the conflict (including date) and give it to Jury Management. If that specific date would occur during the length of the current trial, then let the Court know of your conflict prior to the jury selection being completed for that trial.

18. What can I do if I forgot/lost my jury service barcode or parking permit?: Let Jury Management know so that they can check you in for the day or reprint the sheet.

19. While on jury service, will I need to scan my barcode when I come back after a break or lunch?: No. Once your name has appeared on the screen, you have been checked in for that day. Note: We cannot pay your mileage twice in one day if you do choose to go home and return.

20. While on jury service when do I need to "Scan Out" on the computer?: You will not "Scan Out" during lunch or other breaks; only when the court has released you for that specific day.

21. What do I do if I lost the number badge the Court gave me for jury service?: Let Jury Management know.

22. While on jury service where can I eat lunch?: If you brought your own lunch, you may eat it in the Jury Lounge or at a table or bench outside the Courthouse. There is a refrigerator and a microwave in the Jury Lounge for juror use.

23. While on jury service what about laptops and cell phone use as a juror?: Laptops and cell phones are allowed within the Jury Lounge, and you may use them there. Please take them with you when you go to the Court. You will need to turn off your cell phone prior to entering the courtroom.

24. Can a citizen serve on jury service if convicted of a felony?: Yes, as long as they are not serving a sentence of total confinement under the jurisdiction of the Washington Department of Corrections.

25. Regarding jury service, is there an age limit where you can automatically be excused?: No. You need to ask to be excused if you have a complication. If you have a medical reason to be excused and are age 65 or older, you can make that request without needing to provide a doctor's note.

26. If you have served on jury service within the last year, can you be excused?: Yes, if your service has been within 1 year, you may request to be excused.

27. Can you request a postponement of your Jury Service?: Yes, you may, for up to 6 months.

28. If your jury service is postponed will you automatically receive a reminder on your new date to serve?: Yes, your new summons will arrive 4 weeks prior to your new term of service. However, if the new date is within a month, we will send out the new summons right away.

29. If my request to be excused from jury service is granted will I receive notice verifying this?: No, the summons and the Juror Information Form says that jurors will not receive further notice unless their excuse was not accepted.

30. My spouse passed away and has received a Jury Service Notice; do you need a certified death certificate?: No, only the first 4 questions on the Juror Information Form need to be completed, with the surviving spouse's signature stating that individual's death.

31. My child is in college outside the county and has received a Jury Service Notice; what can I do about that?: The parent can either send the paperwork to the student or complete the first 4 questions on the Jury Information Form and return with that designation (signed by the parent, if returning with a Spokane postmark).

32. My child is in college inside Spokane County and has received a Jury Service Notice, what can I do about that?: The student needs to complete the Jury Information Form and return it with their class schedule (including time of classes) for the term in conflict.

33. What do we do if we have vacation plans for that jury service term and can't serve? (Or we're snowbirds.): Please complete the Jury Information Form and on the lowest section "For Postponement Requests" you may request a postponement date. The postponed jury service term should be rescheduled to begin on the first business day of any week (usually Monday).

34. What if an individual is being asked to serve on jury service and has moved out of the county?: If the individual is known to the recipient, please forward the paperwork for the prospective juror to complete and return to us.

35. What if there is a medical condition that prohibits me from serving on jury service?: If the individual is under age 65, they will need to send their doctor’s note.

36. What if the individual being asked to serve on jury service is in the military?: If the prospective juror is out of the county, a copy of their order is sufficient. If the individual is serving on base inside Spokane County, they are not excused unless their commanding officer writes a letter to be included with their Juror Information Form.

37. What if it is a financial hardship to serve on jury service?: The Juror Information Form needs to be completed and a copy of the policy regarding jury service time away from their employment.

38. What if I am asked to serve on Jury Service and I am a Stay-at-home parent; or have no childcare available or have financial constraints for daycare what do I do?: The Juror Information Form needs to be completed, including a note stating the circumstances. If the parent works, they are typically not excused as they will be using daycare already. Learn more about the
Children's Waiting Room.

39. What if serving on jury service is against religious beliefs?: We cannot excuse individuals based on their specific religious faith. This would deter our "randomness" pool, by excusing individuals of one faith, but not another.

40. What if I am self-employed and asked to serve on jury service?: The Juror Information Form also needs to be completed in this request. Typically we will excuse a self-employed individual if they would lose a large amount of business or financial support by attending jury service for an expected 3 days.

41. What do I do if I am asked to serve on jury service and I am a non-citizen?: The first 4 questions on the Juror Information Form need completed, and the form signed and dated, circling the citizenship disqualification. Please indicate your current citizenship.

42. What do I do if I am asked to serve on jury service and I am a non-resident of Spokane County?: Complete the Juror Information Form and indicate disqualification by checking the non-resident status. As requested on the Juror Information Form, we do require verification of current address and County of residence.

43. What if I am asked to serve on jury service and I do not have the ability to communicate in the English language?: Jurors need to be able to communicate in the English language or with a sign language interpreter. If an individual cannot communicate in English at all, and someone else needs to complete the Juror Information Form that should be indicated as a note on the form. If an individual has been in the state more than 10 years and can communicate some, we ask them to try with one case.

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Victim Impact Statements

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1. What is a Victim Impact Statement?: Crime affects everyone in a different way. Additionally, many people have varying desires for punishment for the defendant. A Victim Impact Statement (VIS) is your chance to tell the judge in your case how the crime has affected you and what you think should happen to the defendant.

2. How do I make a VIS?: The most common way to make a VIS is to write a letter to the judge. You do not need to know the judge’s name. You can simply address your letter “Honorable Judge.” Your letter should be typed if possible but it can be handwritten if it is easy to read.

Another common method is to be present at sentencing and to make a verbal statement addressing the judge. In this case, you simply need to be present at sentencing. When the case is called, the judge will ask at some point whether there is someone who wants to speak on behalf of the victim. This is when you will speak. You will not be placed under oath, but naturally you are expected to tell the truth. Normally you will stand near the table where the prosecutor is sitting. The Victim/Witness Advocate can attend the sentencing hearing with you and stand next to you when you speak.

There are other options as well. Some people choose to bring pictures of a victim who is not able to be present for one reason or another. You can also set up a telephone conference during the sentencing.

3. What should I Say?: There are many things to consider when making a VIS. Here are a few questions you might want to ask yourself:
- How has your life changed since the crime occurred?
- How has the crime affected you emotionally or psychologically?
- How has the crime affected you financially?
- Is this crime a culmination of other crimes or violence committed by the same person?
- What fears or hopes do you have?
- What do you want to happen to the defendant (jail or prison time, treatment, etc.)?
- In your experience, do you think this defendant can be rehabilitated?
- How do you think it will affect you, your family, or the community when the defendant is released?

View an extended list of questions to consider.

4. Can someone else speak for me?: If you do not want to make a VIS yourself, you can have someone else speak on your behalf. This also means that parents can speak on behalf of their children if the children are victims and that a family member or friend can speak on behalf of a deceased victim. The Victim/Witness Advocate can also read a statement you have written to the court if you do not want to do it yourself.

5. What if I don't want to make a VIS?: No one is required to make a Victim Impact Statement, even though they are very useful.

6. What happens to my VIS after sentencing?: If the offender is sentenced to prison and in some other cases, your VIS will be sent to the Department of Corrections and reviewed when the release of the defendant is considered. Your VIS will also become part of the court record (if given verbally) and will remain a permanent part of the court file and the prosecutor's file.

7. How to Write a Victim Impact Statement?: See the sample letter on how to write a Victim Impact Statement; click on the link. Sample of VIS

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Victim/Witness Services

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1. Will I have to testify?: If you are a victim or a witness of a crime, you may have to testify in court. However, many cases plead without actually going to trial. If this happens, you will not be required to testify, as there will not be a trial. If you have concerns about testifying, contact the Victim/Witness Unit.

2. Can I drop the charges?: No. The State of Washington has charged the defendant with a crime, not you. As you have not charged the crime, you cannot drop the charges. Reporting a crime is not the same as charging a crime.

3. I have bills as a result of this crime. How can I get them paid?: If you have medical bills or funeral expenses resulting from a crime, Crime Victims Compensation may cover expenses not covered by your insurance company which would include deductibles and copays. Generally speaking, you are responsible to pay most other bills. If a defendant is found guilty, he or she could be ordered to pay restitution to you and/or your insurance company. In order to have restitution ordered, you must provide the Victim/Witness Unit with a summary and receipts for your losses. Learn more about crime victims compensation here.

4. I have been threatened or contacted by the defendant. What can I do?: It is essential that you report any contact from a defendant or his or her family/friends to law enforcement and/or the prosecutor's office immediately. This may be a violation. If you have evidence of the contact, such as voicemail, caller ID, a letter, or email, save the evidence until law enforcement and/or the prosecutor's office says to do otherwise. If you have not already done so, you may wish to obtain a Protection Order. The Victim/Witness Unit can also assist you devising a safety plan.

5. An attorney or investigator has been contacting me about the case. What should I do?: First, as a victim or witness to a crime, you should always take the time to identify who exactly you are talking with. Any person legitimately involved in a case will always be able to provide identification. Second, unless under court order, you have the right to speak with anyone or decline to speak with anyone. Third, according to RCW 7.69.030(10), with respect to victims of violent and sex crimes, the victim, survivors of victims, and witnesses of any criminal court and/or juvenile court proceeding, can have a crime victim advocate from a crime Victim/Witness Unit, or any other support person of the victim's choosing, present at any prosecutorial or defense interviews with the victim, and at any judicial proceedings related to criminal acts committed against the victim. This applies if practical and if the presence of the crime victim advocate or support person does not cause any unnecessary delay in the investigation of the case. The role of the crime victim advocate is to provide emotional support to crime victims.

The Victim/Witness Unit has interview request forms and procedures to coordinate interviews with defense attorneys or their investigators. Feel free to contact the Victim/Witness Unit for assistance with interviews.

6. I gave a statement to law enforcement. Why do I have to be interviewed?: Statements given to law enforcement may not always be complete. They sometimes lack detail that help the attorneys involved understand the case better.

7. Can someone attend the interview with me?: Yes. You have the right to have someone of your choosing (generally an advocate, friend, or someone from the prosecutor's office) attend interviews with you, as long as there is not a conflict. An example of a conflict would be that the person you wish to attend the interview is also a witness in the case. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that whoever attends the interview with you may become a witness at trial. If you have someone in mind that you want to attend trial with you, it is best not to have that person attend the interview with you as well.

8. Will the defendant go to prison or jail?: It depends on the type of crime, the defendant's criminal history and the resolution of the case.

9. Can I contact the defendant?: Victims and witnesses are frequently asked not to contact defendants until a case is over. In some cases, contact with the defendant may be strictly prohibited. If you and the defendant were living together, the court will frequently order the defendant to find another place to stay if released from jail.

10. How can I be notified if the defendant is released from jail?: You may access the Spokane County Sheriff's Office website for defendant information. If you have further questions, contact the Spokane County Jail at 509-477-2278. For immediate notification if a defendant is released, please call 877-846-3492 or contact the Washington Statewide Victim Information and Notification Service.

11. How could the defendant plead "not guilty"? I saw him do it.: In our justice system, defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Almost all defendants plead "not guilty" when charged with a crime. They may decide to change their plea after talking with a lawyer, or they may decide to go to trial and require that the state prove them guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

12. Can I get restitution for things such as pain, suffering, and mental anguish?: Not through the criminal justice system. Restitution is ordered for out of pocket expenses directly related to the crime. If you would like to seek compensation for pain and suffer, you may wish to file a civil suit. However, neither the Victim/Witness Unit or the Spokane County Prosecuting Attorney's Office can advise you in such a matter.

13. What is a protection order? How can I get one?: A protection order is an order that prohibits the respondent from contacting you. There are several kinds of protection orders, including an Order for Protection (for domestic violence cases,) No Contact Order, Restraining Order, and Anti-Harassment Order. You can apply for a protection order at the Superior Court Clerk's Office at 509-477-3688 or the District Court Clerk's Office at 509-477-4770. For more information contact the Victim/Witness Unit at 509-477-3646.

14. How do I know when and where to go to court?: If you are a victim/witness to a crime and you must appear at trial, you will receive only one subpoena from the Spokane County Prosecuting Attorney's Office or another attorney in the case. The subpoena should state where and when you must appear. When you are subpoenaed for trial, you can check the trial message line at 509-477-2803 which is updated every Friday afternoon to see if the case is going to trial, has been continued, or has been resolved. You are normally subpoenaed to appear at the Spokane County Superior Court. Do not show up for court if you have not been contacted by the Deputy Prosecuting Attorney or the Victim/Witness Advocate advising you when to appear for your testimony.

The Victim/Witness Unit would be happy to answer any further questions you may have. You can contact the Victim/Witness Unit at 509-477-3646 or by letter.

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Wastewater Operations and Maintenance

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1. What number do I call for a sewer spill, backup, or other sewer-related emergency?: If you are in the Spokane County Sewer Service Area, call the Wastewater Operations Center at 509-477-1984. For after-hours calls dial 509-459-9330. If you are in the City of Spokane Sewer Service Area call 509-625-7900.

2. How do I report a noisy or missing manhole lid?: Call 509-477-1984 during business hours.

3. There is water coming out of a storm drain lid or the catch basin is clogged on my street. Who do I call?: Call the County Public Works Department at 509-477-3600.

4. I have requested a utility locate. When will the sewer lines be marked?: Call 509-477-3604 to talk to an inspector.

5. Can I dump automotive, household chemicals or other materials down the drain?: No. Only normal strength residential wastewater may be discharged to the sanitary sewer system.

6. How do I report a blown toilet?: Contact the crew that is working in the street near your house or call 509-477-1984.

7. Why do blown toilets happen?: When our crews are cleaning the sewer mains they are using high-pressure hoses that spray water in the sewer main. This can cause high air pressure or negative air pressure in the sewer main and sewer service lines that connect to the house plumbing. If a house does not have adequate sewer vents, which are usually vented through the roof, the excess air pressure can cause water to be blown out of the toilets or p-traps in the home. If your toilet is blown, please contact the equipment operator or call 509-477-1984.

8. How often are the sanitary sewer main lines cleaned?: Usually once every three years. Some ‘problem areas’ may be cleaned more frequently if there are problems with grease buildup or other issues.

9. My sewer service line is broken or blocked. Who is responsible?: The home owner. The County is only responsible for maintaining the public sewer main. The sewer service line from the home to the sewer main in the street is privately owned and maintained by the owner of the house or business.

10. My basement was flooded with sewage. Who is responsible for cleaning it up?: It is usually the homeowner’s responsibility to clean up their home due to sewer backups. The County is not responsible unless it is proved that we were negligent in the maintenance or operation of the sewer system.

11. I can smell sewage in or around my home. What causes this?: Most times if you are smelling sewage in your home it is due to a p-trap that has dried out from lack of use. Run water down the drain to fill up the p-trap. Outside of the home, if the wind is right, you can sometimes smell sewage coming from the roof vents of your house or your neighbor’s house.

12. Why can’t I flush ‘flushable’ wipes?: These products, no matter how they are advertised, do not break down properly in the sewer collection system. They cause costly backups in the sewer mains and plug up pumps. All of this adds cost to operating the sewer system and takes time away from doing regular maintenance work.

13. How often are the sewer main lines inspected?: Usually once every 10 years. New sewer lines are inspected when they are installed and then again after paving. After it is verified that they were constructed properly the lines are conveyed to Spokane County and they are then maintained by the County.

14. My wedding ring was flushed down the toilet. Can the County get it back?: No. We cannot search for lost wedding rings or other valuables flushed down the toilet. You may try calling a plumber to help you look in the privately owned and maintained sewer service line between the house and the sewer main line in the street.

15. How do I request a pre-pave sewer inspection?: Call Environmental Services Sewer Planning & Engineering at 509-477-3604.

16. What if there is a dead deer in the road?: If it is a County road call 509-477-3600. For State roads call the Washington State Department of Transportation at 509-324-6000. In City of Spokane call 509-755-2489. In Spokane Valley call 509-921-1000. Dead deer on private property are, in most cases, the responsibility of the property owner. Call the WDFW for other game animal related questions at 509-892-1001.

17. How can I find out what water district I am in?: Go to http://cp.spokanecounty.org/scout/map/ and pick your parcel on the map. Then click the Districts tab.

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Water Resource Center

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1. What time is the Water Resource Center open?: Monday-Friday, 8am-4:30pm. Appointments are recommended to ensure staff availability.

2. Can I drop in or do I need to schedule a time to visit the Water Resource Center?: Drop ins are welcome but there may be other events occurring. Additionally, the Center is not staffed full time so you may be on your own with a self-guided tour. If you wish to schedule a time for a self-guided walk through, please call (509) 477-7579. For group visits and activities, visit our Water Resource Center home page. Click here...

3. Can educators/teachers bring classes to the Water Resource Center?: Yes! We encourage field trips to the Center where we provide water-related activities/lessons for groups of 10 or more. For Grade 4 and above, we also can provide walking tours of the County Water Reclamation Facility.

4. Return to Environmental Services Home Page: Return to Environmental Services Home Page
Click here

5. Go to Water Resource Center Home Page: Go to Water Resource Center Home Page Click here

6. I want to find information about an existing water well. Can you help me?: The best place to begin is the Washington State Well Log Viewer which is a service of the Washington State Department of Ecology. If you want to speak with someone in the East Region of the Department of Ecology, the Spokane number is (509) 329-3529.
Washington State Well Log Viewer

7. How do I find a list of Spokane area drinking water providers or locate my drinking water provider?: Visit this page to learn more and find a link to a water providers service area map.
Municipal Water Providers

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Water Resources

Show All Answers

1. How do I find a list of Spokane area drinking water providers or locate my drinking water provider?: Visit this page to learn more and find a link to a water providers service area map. Municipal Water Providers

2. I want to find information about an existing water well. Can you help me?: The best place to begin is the Washington State Well Log Viewer which is a service of the Washington State Department of Ecology. If you want to speak with someone in the East Region of the Department of Ecology, the Spokane number is (509) 329-3529. Washington State Well Log Viewer

3. What is the APA Fee I see on my property taxes?: The Aquifer Protection Area (APA) Fee is a voter-approved fee which helps to protect and preserve the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie (SVRP) Aquifer which is the area's sole-source drinking water supply. Learn more...

4. What projects is Spokane County Water Resources currently working on?: Three (3) primary projects include Watershed Planning, Water Bank Development and Saltese Flats Wetland Restoration.
Learn more...

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Your Property

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1. How are my taxes calculated?: View an explanation of how property taxes are calculated on our property tax explanation page.

2. Why is the value of my property high?: The value is set by the Assessor's office.

3. Are there any special requirements to sell real or personal property?: A Real Estate Excise Tax Affidavit form must be filed with the Treasurer's Office prior to a deed being recorded in the Auditor's Office. Payment must be made at the time the affidavit is filed. If transferring a mobile home, current, delinquent and advanced property taxes may also be payable at this time.

4. I am gifting my property. What should I do?: There is a Real Estate Excise Tax Supplement statement form that must be completed and signed by both parties. This must accompany a completed Real Estate Excise Tax Affidavit form. These documents are filed in the Treasurer's Office. There is a $10 fee if no taxes are due.

5. Where can I get a copy of the Real Estate Excise Affidavit and other related forms?: You can obtain these forms at the Treasurer's Office free of charge or the Washington State Department of Revenue.

6. How long do I have to process my property transfer and pay excise tax?: You have 30 days from the date of sale to avoid interest and penalty on the excise taxes due.

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Your Tax Statement

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1. Why haven't I received my statement yet?: The Treasurer's Office may have an incorrect mailing address, a mortgage company may be paying your taxes, or we may be holding the statement for an adjustment that needs to be made prior to mailing (i.e. senior or disability exemptions).

If you have not received a statement by March 31st, please contact the Treasurer's Office at 509-477-4713.

2. Where can I get copies of my tax statement?: There are several ways to get a copy of your tax statement.

They can be found on our website by searching for your parcel using the parcel number or an address. You will find the statement under the notices tab at the top of the page.

You can contact the Treasurer's Office and a current statement can be faxed, emailed or mailed to you.

You can also request a statement online or download the request form. For more information, go to the request forms section.

3. How do I change my name or address?: A name or address change can be taken by phone, mail, or in person. You can also change your name/address online or download the request form.

You may only request a taxpayer change through the Treasurer's Office.

Any request for owner name/address change must be done through the Assessor's Office. A legal document such as a deed, real estate contract, divorce decree, death certificate, or a court document must be provided. Please remember to include your parcel number(s) for any of these requests.

4. I just sold my property. What should I do with the statement?: The tax statement should be forwarded to the purchaser or returned to the Treasurer's Office. If you choose to return the statement, please note the purchaser's name and address so we can contact the new owner.

5. What should I do when the situs or location address of my property is printed incorrectly on the statement?: Contact the Assessor's Office to request a correction of this address.

6. Why did I receive a statement when my taxes are paid by a mortgage company?

Due to a change in state law, beginning in 2020 full tax statements are mailed to all taxpayers, including those whose property taxes are paid through escrow. For those who have their taxes paid through escrow, this may be the first time you have received a full tax statement instead of an informational postcard. This courtesy information is provided to you so that you have a record of the taxes billed to your mortgage company. Under Washington State Law, it is the taxpayer's responsibility to insure taxes are paid on their property.

If a mortgage company is no longer paying your taxes (the loan has been paid off, the loan has been sold to another company that does not require impounds, etc.), you are responsible for making your payments in a timely manner. Please contact our office or call 509-477-4713 to update your records for this change and to obtain a tax statement.

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For information on acceptable items at the Spokane County Transfer Stations, please visit our "Materials Accepted at Spokane County’s Transfer Stations" page.

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