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1. How do I report a streetlight that is out or not working properly?

Call Puget Sound Energy at (888) 225-5773 to report a streetlight that is out or not properly functioning or visit the PSE website. Learn more about reporting an outage to PSE.

2. How do I report a malfunctioning traffic signal?

Contact the Public Works Department at (425) 877-2274 to report a traffic signal that is not properly functioning.

3. Who do I contact about debris in the road?

To report debris in the road, contact the Public Works Department at (425) 877.2274 or report online using the Woodinville Works portal.  If the debris is causing an immediate threat to traffic, please dial 911.

4. What do I do if I smell gas?

If you suspect that you have a natural gas leak, leave the area immediately and call Puget Sound Energy at (888) 225-5773 or dial 911.

5. Where do I go to pick up bid documents?

The City of Woodinville uses Public Purchase to post and accept responses to our request for bids and proposals from vendors.  Visit our Bids & Proposals page for additional information.

6. Do I need a permit to remove a tree?

A tree removal permit is required for any proposal to remove significant trees, unless otherwise exempt in WMC 21.50.030. A separate tree removal permit is not required for projects that trigger a site development, site plan review, or building permit, as the proposal to remove the trees will be reviewed under those permits.

Learn more about Tree Removal Permits and how to submit a Tree Removal Application.

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1. What is a roundabout?

A modern roundabout is a circular intersection where drivers travel counterclockwise around a center island. There are no traffic signals or stop signs in a modern roundabout. Drivers yield at entry to traffic in the roundabout, then enter the intersection and exit at their desired street. Studies by the Federal Highway Administration have found that roundabouts can increase traffic capacity by 30 percent to 50 percent compared to traditional intersections.

2. Why are roundabouts considered safer?

The Washington State Department of Transportation lists the following reasons roundabouts decrease the likelihood of a collision:

• Low travel speeds – By design, traffic is forced to slow their speed of travel, resulting in less collisions and minor accidents when one does occur.
• No light to beat – Because traffic is continuously flowing, drivers are less likely to accelerate to ‘beat the light’ like they would in a traditional intersection.
• One-way travel – The curved road and one-way traffic eliminate the possibility of head-on collisions.

3. How fast should a vehicle go in a roundabout?

Roundabouts are designed for a travel speed of 15 – 20 miles per hour.

4. Do roundabouts cause more crashes?

No, statistics show that roundabouts decrease the overall amount of crashes by 40% and reduce injury crashes by 75% at intersections where stop signs or signals were previously used. Pedestrian collisions are also reduced by 40%.

5. Will the roundabout be big enough for large trucks?

The roundabout will be designed to accommodate delivery trucks, buses, and emergency vehicles. A slightly elevated “truck apron” will be installed in the center to provide an area for larger vehicles to track when necessary.

6. How do you drive in a roundabout?

Entering traffic yields to vehicles in the roundabout, the waiting vehicle enters the roundabout in a counterclockwise direction, and the vehicle exits the roundabout, using their turn signal, at the desired road. All traffic is expected to yield to pedestrians at the designated cross walks.

7. Where can I find more information on roundabouts?

The Washington State Department of Transportation has some excellent information on roundabouts, including videos. This information can be found on the WSDOT website.

 

8. What are Neighborhood Traffic Calming Circles?

Neighborhood traffic calming circles are much smaller than modern roundabouts and often replace stop signs at four-way intersections. They are typically used in residential neighborhoods to slow traffic speeds and reduce accidents but are typically not designed to accommodate larger vehicles. Many drivers often turn left in front of the circles rather than turning around them.

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1. How do I pay my city water bill?

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2. How do I get a new trash can lid?

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3. How do I apply for a job with the City?

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4. My trash didn't get picked up, what should I do now?

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5. How do I get a garage sale permit?

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6. How can I see the agenda for an upcoming City Council or Board meeting?

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1. How do I apply for a job?

Apply for Woodinville jobs online by navigating to the City's Job Opportunities page. Then, click on the job title in which you are interested.  After viewing the Job Announcement, click the "Apply" link to begin your application and submit it when complete. 

It is important that your application shows all of the relevant qualifications (education and experience, etc.).  Applications may be rejected if incomplete.

After you apply, login to your account to track your application status throughout the process.

If a position of interest is not currently posted, you can submit a job category or position specific interest card to receive posting notification.

Get Help With Your Online Application or NEOGOV Account

Use the online Help Guide, contact the Applicants Support Line at 855-524-5627, or email Government Jobs Support if your need assistance with your online applicant account. Applicant Support is available between 6 am and 5 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday.

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1. Is my property within the City of Woodinville?

Not all Woodinville addresses are within the City; they may be within unincorporated Snohomish County or unincorporated King County even though they have a Woodinville mailing address. Visit the "My Property Info" page to determine if your property is within the City of Woodinville.

If your property is in Snohomish County, you can obtain permit requirements at the Snohomish County Planning and Development Services website.

If your property is in King County, you can obtain permit requirements at the King County Permits page.

2. Why should I get a permit?

First, it is the law, and work done without a permit may have to be redone or removed at the property owners cost. Additionally, getting a permit ensures that the project has met the minimum standards of safety; it makes selling the property easier because lenders may not finance a home sale if illegal work was done; and in the case of an insurance claim, illegal work may not be covered if it is damaged.

3. When is a building permit required?

A permit is required from the City for the following activities.

Mechanical or Plumbing

• Installation, relocation, and replacement of any mechanical appliance, such as water heaters, furnaces, heat pumps, fireplaces, stoves, hot tubs, etc.
• Installation or modifying of gas lines for any mechanical appliance, such as barbecues and cook tops
• Installation, relocation, and replacement of any gas or electric water heater
• Installation, relocation, and replacement of any plumbing fixture where water lines, drains or vents are installed or modified
• Installation of any pool in-ground, and installation of any above-ground pool that is over 24 inches deep or over 5,000 gallons
• Installation of backflow prevention device on a lawn or garden irrigation system

Fire

• Installation of or modification of a fire sprinkler or alarm system

Building

• Construction of a deck where any of the following apply:
  • Larger than 200 square feet
  • The deck surface exceeds 30 inches above the finished grade at any point
  • Attached to a dwelling
  • Serves the main side hinged exit door
  • A permit is also required for replacing or repairing existing decks that meet the previous criteria
• Installation or moving an exterior door, skylight, or window, including making an existing window wider
• Construction of or modification to a garage or carport
• A remodel of a house, such as creating new walls, converting basements or garages in to living areas, or adding a bay window
• A tenant improvement to a commercial building, including interior and exterior changes
• Construction of retaining walls or rockeries over four feet high, or where a car or structure is on top of the wall; the height of the wall is measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall
• For single-family residences, roofing projects that include modifying or replacing the sheathing
• For multi-family residential or non-residential property, any roofing project
• Construction of a storage shed or playhouse with a floor area greater than 200 square feet

Work Not Requiring a Permit

A building permit is not required for the following work:

• Interior finish work, including painting, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, and counter top installation
• Swings or other play equipment for single-family homes
• Interior walls or other partitions less than 5 feet 9 inches in height
• Fences that are not over 6 feet in height
• Portable heating equipment

4. How do I obtain a permit?

Start by filling out a permit application. Permit applications are available at the Permit Center counter on the main floor of City Hall. You can fill out the application at City Hall or you may take the application with you to fill out later. Applications also may be mailed, faxed or emailed to you upon request. Applications are also available via Permit Forms in our Document Center.

Information you need to provide on the application includes your name, address, telephone number, description and valuation of the work being done. If you need help filling out the application, a staff member will be happy to assist you.

To start the review process, you need to submit a completed application and plans, and a submittal fee. You may submit the permit application in person or by mail.

Once a permit is ready, you will be called at the number provided on the application. You then pay for the permit at that time and take it with you, along with the approved plans and the inspection card that details what inspections are required.

5. How long does it take to get a permit?

Current turnaround times for construction permits are as follows.

Type of Project	Time to Review
Building - Non-Residential Addition, Alteration	4 to 8 weeks
Building - Non-Residential Repair, Replacement	1 week
Building - Single-Family Addition, Alteration	2 to 5 weeks
Building - Single-Family New	4 to 7 weeks
Demolition Permits	0 to 4 weeks
Fire Suppression	1 week
Fire Sprinkler	1 week
Fire Alarm	1 week
Mechanical - Non-Residential Addition, Alteration	1 week
Mechanical - Multi-Family Residential Addition, Alteration	1 week
Mechanical - Single-Family Residential Addition, Alteration	1 week
Plumbing - Non-Residential Addition, Alteration	1 week
Plumbing - Single-Family Residential Addition, Alteration	1 week
Right-of-Way	3 to 4 weeks
Site Development	10 to 19 weeks
Permanent Sign	2 to 4 weeks
Tree Removal	1 week

Land use permits generally take 120 days to process, between when a completeness letter is sent and when a decision is issued.

6. How much does a permit cost?

For a complete list of permit fees, please view the Development Services Fee Schedule (PDF).

Building

• Permit fees are based on the scope of work. Building permit fees are derived from a sliding scale based on project valuation. Plan review fees are charged in addition to the building permit fee. The plan review fee is usually 65% of the building permit fee.
• If you are building a new building, traffic and park impact fees may apply.
• In addition to the City permit costs, the state has a fee for building, demolition, and sign permits, which is currently an additional $4.50 per permit.

Other

• Mechanical, plumbing and fire permit fees are based on the number of fixtures, systems, or devices being installed or modified.
• Grading permit fees are based on the total amount of grading being done on the project.
• Right-of-Way permit fees are based on the type of work proposed and the lineal feet of work within the right-of-way.
• Land Use fees are based on the type of land use project proposed.

To get a permit cost estimate for any project, call the Permit Center at 425-489-2754.

Determining the Valuation of Your Project

Valuation should reflect the cost of the project including all work covered by the permit. The valuation should also include labor, even if you are doing the work yourself. Valuations are frequently compared to available cost estimators and will be adjusted if the valuation provided appears to be in error.

7. What should be included in the plan sets, and how should they be prepared?

The plans submitted with the permit must be neatly drawn and drawn to a usable scale. One-quarter inch to one foot is a common scale for building plans. Typical residential plans would include a site plan, floor plan, cross section, elevation, details of various structural components and a window schedule.

Plans should be dimensioned and include information on use of rooms, wall and ceiling finishes, lumber sizes, and spacing.

Standard requirements for site, building, and civil plans are available in the Permit Forms folder.

8. Do I need an architect or engineer to prepare my plans?

Washington State has requirements for when an architect is required to complete a set of plans. Generally, any building over 4,000 square feet, where the life safety or structural systems are modified, must be designed by a licensed architect.

A structural engineer is required to prepare building plans when the design does not use the prescriptive building code requirements, or for walls or rockeries that require a building permit. A civil engineer is required to design drainage and roadway improvements.

9. Do I need to hire a contractor if I can do the work myself?

A property owner is allowed to do work on their own property, for single-family and commercial properties. If you hire someone to do the work for you, they must be a contractor licensed with the state of Washington. You can look up contractors on the Department of Labor and Industries website. You can also review the laws on hiring a contractor at this same website.

10. Does the City inspect the work?

All work is subject to inspection by the City. The number and type of inspections vary depending on the work being done. When the permit is issued, you will receive a blue inspection record that lists the inspections required. The website and telephone number to call for scheduling an inspection will be on the blue card.

It is the owner or contractors' responsibility to call for an inspection when the work is ready. When you call, you will need to know the following information: the permit number, the project name, the site address, the name and phone number for the contact person, the date and time of the inspection, and the kind of inspection you are requesting.

You may schedule your inspection online before 6 am the day of using our Permit Portal.

Inspections requests over the phone can be made up to 3 pm the previous business day. To reach the voicemail inspection line call 425-489-2754. Press 1 for inspections.

If you have any questions concerning your project or inspections, you may call the inspector directly at 206-276-6856.

11. What happens if I start work without a building permit?

Since failure to obtain a permit is a violation of City ordinances and state law, fines may be levied. The work may be required to be torn out and redone, or removed completely, either because the work was not done to code, or the work cannot be approved due to building or zoning requirements.

12. Do I need a permit to remove a tree?

A Tree Removal Permit (PDF) is required to remove any tree on private or public property.

13. How do I obtain electrical permits?

Electrical permits are done through the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries. Visit their page on Electrical Basics for Home and Business Owners.

14. How do I obtain water, sewer, and/or septic removal?

Water and sewer services are provided by the Woodinville Water District. Their requirements are available on the Woodinville Water District website. They also have available information on existing water and sewer connections.

Septic approval is done through the Public Health - Seattle and King County. Septic requirements are available on Seattle and King County Environmental Health's On-Site Sewage System Program page. They also have available designs of existing septic systems.

15. What should be done with construction and demolition waste?

Click on the link for King County's Construction and Demolition Waste webpage. 

King County Construction and Demolition Waste

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1. What is a significant tree?

A significant tree is a tree with a diameter-at-breast-height of six (6) inches or more.

2. How do I measure the diameter-at-breast-height (DBH) for a tree?

The diameter-at-breast-height (DBH) of a tree’s trunk is measured 4.5 feet above the ground. To find the diameter of a tree, first measure the circumference as shown in the first image below. Then divide the circumference by 3.14. The result will equal the diameter of the tree. Refer to the second image below for reference of these terms.

 

In cases where trees have multiple trunks, use the image below for guidance on how to measure these trees.

3. What are the requirements for tree removal on single-family properties?

The requirements for tree removal on single-family residential properties differs depending on whether other construction activity is occurring at the time the tree removal is proposed. Below is a summary of the code requirements for each situation - please see the Woodinville Municipal Code for a full list of regulations.

Tree removal on single-family properties with construction

Any proposal requiring a tree permit, except as provided for lots without construction below, shall meet minimum tree density credits required for the zone the property is located in:

• For the R-1 zones, properties are required to have 70 tree density credits per acre.
• For the R-4 through R-8 zones, properties are required to have 50 tree density credits per acre.

Tree credits afforded to each tree is determined by measuring the diameter-at-breast-height (DBH) of each tree. Trees credits values are determined by the table below:

The density credit for a single-family property is the sum of all retained existing trees on site, plus any new or supplemental trees that are planted. If a site falls below the minimum tree density with existing trees, supplemental planting shall be required. See WMC 21.50.060 for more information.

Tree removal on single-family properties without construction

If no construction activity is proposed on a single-family residence at the time the tree removal permit is reviewed, then the following requirements apply:

• Up to four (4) trees are permitted to be removed with a single tree removal permit without meeting additional requirements. Up to two (2) permits of this kind are permitted per single-family property.
• If more than two tree removal permits have been requested on a single property, the property must demonstrate compliance with the minimum tree density credits required for the zone. If the property falls below the required minimum tree density with existing trees, supplemental planting shall be required. See WMC 21.50.060 for more information.

The removal of more than four trees with a single permit may be permitted for the purposes of tree thinning or the removal of dead, nuisance, or hazard trees, with the following requirements:

• An arborist report, prepared by a certified arborist, will be required to support the removal of these trees.
• Tree removal in this way shall require compliance with the minimum tree density required for the zone or provide replacement plantings at a rate of three trees per each removed tree.

4. What are the tree removal standards for proposed subdivision or short subdivisions?

Proposed subdivision or short subdivisions will be required to demonstrate the following (see WMC 21.50.080 for additional requirements):

1. The overall site must meet the minimum tree density credits required by the zone the property is located in (see the ‘tree removal on single-family residential properties’ section below for more information).
2. The site shall retain at least 10 percent of the tree density credits of all existing healthy and viable significant trees within the property boundary prior to subdivision.

 

5. What are the tree removal standards for multi-family or non-residential properties?

Multi-family (R-12 – R-48 zones) and non-residential properties do not have minimum tree density credit requirements. Instead, these properties are required to provide perimeter, parking lot, and interior landscaping as required in Chapter 21.43 WMC.

6. Can I trim or remove trees within critical areas or its buffer?

Trimming or removal of trees located within critical areas or buffers is prohibited, except if the trees proposed for trimming or removal are determined to be hazardous, nuisance, or dead by a certified arborist, and this claim is confirmed by the City. In this instance, the removal shall comply with the following:

1. The tree removed is left as a “snag” or wildlife tree. If this is not feasible, then the tree shall be felled and left in place.
2. The property, or Native Growth Protection Area the tree is located in, shall demonstrate compliance with the minimum tree density credits required for the zone (see the ‘tree removal on single-family residential properties’ section below for more information).
3. Provide a replanting plan as required by the City’s critical area code, located in Chapter 21.51 WMC.

7. Can I remove fallen trees from a stream since they may cause flooding?

Logs in streams provide habitat for fish. The State Department of Fish and Wildlife, which manages state fisheries and has jurisdiction over all activities that physically affect streams, strictly prohibits removal of logs from streams. An exception to this policy is if a log creates an imminent hazard during a flood. The City cannot grant such permission, nor assist private property owners in removal (unless it threatens a bridge or other public property).

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1. How does the city prepare for snow and ice events? What happens when the snow starts falling?

Sometime in early fall, the City of Woodinville starts checking equipment and stockpiling everything we need for snow response. This includes 5 plows, 400 gallons of de-icer, 180 tons of sand, and 70 tons of salt.

The day before snow is expected to arrive, City crews apply sand and a layer of salt brine solution de-icer to major arterials and residential streets that are known to be steep or particularly difficult to navigate. The brine helps prevent snow from sticking to the pavement and makes plowing and additional salting more effective.

The City has a system in place for prioritizing which roads to plow. With over 50 miles of roads, 30 of which are residential including over 100 cul-de-sacs, it takes time for our plows to make it out to all areas.

Plowing time depends on many factors, including the intensity and duration of the snowstorm, the amount of snow accumulated, as well as temperature and wind speed. During particularly intense storms where plows are in use around the clock, equipment repairs are often needed. In this situation, fewer available plows can also contribute to overall plowing time.

2. How does the City prioritize which streets to plow?

City crews operate plows according to our Snow & Ice Route Map. Our goal is to maximize safety and access for the greatest number of people by keeping lifeline routes and major thoroughfares in good winter driving condition.

Major arterials within the City are assigned a Priority 1 level. These roads are often plowed multiple times before starting on lower priority roads. Priority 1 routes also include roads that provide access to fire stations, medical facilities, and schools.

Priority 2, 3, and 4 streets are assigned by taking into consideration connectivity to major arterials, presence of steep hills, curves, or ditches, and the number of households that rely on a street to leave their neighborhood.

Private roads and driveways are not plowed.

3. Why hasn’t the City plowed my residential street yet? When can I expect the plow to come?

During and immediately after major snow events, we can sometimes get hundreds of these calls a day. Our crews are out plowing 24/7, and it can take time to get to some of the smaller residential streets. If the snow is continuing to fall, we’re likely working to ensure that major thoroughfares stay clear.

Please understand that we have finite resources to respond to snow events—including plow equipment, maintenance personnel, and storage capacity for deicer and salt to treat surfaces. This is especially true when responding to unusually intense snow events for our region. With over 100 lane miles of roadway to maintain, it is difficult to plow all of the streets with the City’s limited staff and equipment. Most of the First Priority routes contain four lanes plus turning lanes; these routes can keep equipment busy 24 hours a day, even after the snow stops falling. The City’s goal is to maintain a safe travel route for you and your family. The City makes every effort to get to the lower priority streets when weather and conditions allow. 

If you live along a low-priority street and are concerned about the time it takes for plows to arrive, we recommend making a plan with your neighbors to coordinate shoveling and snow removal. If you are physically able to shovel snow, consider helping those who live nearby who may not be.

We recommend all Woodinville residents have an emergency kit on hand which includes first aid supplies, food, water, and other supplies to be self-sufficient for 7-10 days. For help putting together an emergency kit, refer to the Emergency Kit Checklist from Makeitthrough.org (PDF).

4. The plow just came by my street, but it left a huge pile of snow right in front of my driveway! What should I do?

Sometimes snow pushed to the side of the road by a plow can pile up and block driveways. There is no way for plow operators to avoid this. It is the resident’s responsibility to shovel the area around their driveway.

5. Why doesn't the City plow the center of the road?

We don’t stack snow in the center lane because … Plowing and piling snow into the center of a street creates a safety hazard. The freeze-thaw cycle creates a bigger challenge when the melting snow freezes on the road surface during the evening. Traffic flow is restricted by eliminating a portion of a driving lane, and it creates sight obstructions for low ground clearance vehicles.

6. I’m glad the city plows our streets, but what about sidewalks? I want to be able to walk around my neighborhood safely.

With the exception of a few high-traffic areas near schools and commercial areas, the City does not remove snow from sidewalks.

It is the responsibility of the owner of a property abutting a public sidewalk to maintain the sidewalk at all times in a safe condition, free of snow and ice. (Woodinville Municipal Code 12.06.030)

7. What tips do you have for safe driving during snow storms?

The safest thing you can do during a snow storm is to stay off the roads. Not only is driving during snowfall treacherous for you and your vehicle, it can be life-threatening for pedestrians. Slow-moving and abandoned cars also interfere with first responders and plow operators—better not to take a chance if you can avoid it. Mostly importantly, do not abandon your car in the middle of the road.

If you must drive, slow down and watch for ice, hills, and ditches.

Be sure to clear your car of all snow and ice before leaving for your destination.

When driving at night, keep your headlight beams low. High beams can amplify the appearance of snow and lead to decreased visibility.

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1. May I drop in to use the fields?

Yes, provided that:

• The field is not currently rented, or you have permission of the current renter.
• You are not a part of an organized sports group or organization dropping in for unscheduled games or practice.
• The use is an allowable sports activity and not one of the prohibited uses of the fields (safety first).

2. Can I walk my dog on the field?

No, pets are not permitted within the facility fencing. Would you like to go sliding into first where a dog just did its business?

3. Is using the buffer between fields allowed when the fields are rented to someone else?

No, not without the permission of the current renter. The renter of the field has paid a fee for exclusive use of the field and the buffer around it. They are focused on providing a safe environment for their players to develop their sport skills. Please give them the courtesy of staying off the fields while it is rented.

4. What are the prohibited uses?

The fields are specifically designed for Soccer, Lacrosse, Baseball (players 12 and younger), and Softball. The fields can also support Football but there are no lines for it. All other uses are typically not allowed without written City approval.