Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, city code requires that all dogs be licensed. Fees and the licensing application can be found here: https://www.snohomishwa.gov/188/Dog-Licensing-Permits

State law prohibits the possession, breeding, and sale of exotic or "potentially dangerous wild animals", but not all exotic animals are prohibited. 

No, only dogs require licensing within the City. More information about types and number of animals allowed can be found here: https://snohomish.municipal.codes/SMC/7.04.065

Any complaints regarding animal behavior or animal-related offenses should be reported to the Snohomish Police Department.

There are several ways to determine whether your property is located within the City limits of Snohomish, or in unincorporated Snohomish County. Do not rely on your mailing address; many "Snohomish" addresses are for properties that are actually in unincorporated areas. Check the Snohomish County Assessor's website or your property tax bill. If property taxes are paid to the County or a different jurisdiction, then the property is not in the City of Snohomish. You may also click the link below to view the map of Snohomish City limits. If the property is outside the shaded area, it is not in Snohomish.

Permit fees are collected at the time of submittal, and include a plan check fee and a small state surcharge. Fees are based on the estimated value of work, which is provided by the applicant or the contractor, or is calculated using the square footage of the project. The plan check fee is 75% of the building permit fee calculation. Some permit types include a base charge as well. In addition, impact fees to schools, parks, and traffic may apply. 

For an estimate of permit fees, use the Fee Estimator tool on the SSPP or call the Permit Center at 360-282-3156.

We are available to help answer questions about the permitting process. Contact the Permit Center at 360-282-3156 or stop by City Hall.  If you have already submitted a permit application, you can check the status online using the SSPP.

Each type of project has separate permit submittal requirements which have been summarized on checklists for permit application. Access submittal checklists on the Forms page.  An abbreviated list is also available during the submittal process online using the SSPP. In all cases, if you have a question about whether something on the checklist applies to your project, ask staff before submitting your application.

Inspection requests can be made online using the SSPP.  Go to My Work and click the Request Inspections tab, then submit a request for the date and time you would like.  Inspections are not conducted on weekends or federally observed holidays.

Your permit is valid for two years (24 months) from the date of issuance.  If the project will not be completed within two years, a one-year extension may be granted provided a written permit extension request is submitted and received by the Building Official no more than 30 days prior to the permit expiration. 

Some permits, such as residential plumbing and mechanical fixture replacement permits, can be issued as soon as the application is processed and fees are paid. The time required to obtain other permits will vary with the plan reviewer's workload. You can contact the Permitting center and inquire about the approximate review time for specific types of projects.

Fence permits are only required for certain zones. If your property is zoned Single Family and is located outside the Historic District, then a building permit is not required to build a fence. However, the fence must comply with code regulations pertaining to height and location.

SSPP stands for Self-Service Permit Portal, and it is how all permit applications are submitted and processed.  More information including user guides can be found on the SSPP webpage, or go directly to the SSPP and create an account.

Use the search function of the SSPP if you notice work going on in town and want to know whether it is permitted.  Open the SSPP and click Search Public Records.  Enter the address, street name, keyword, or type of work in the search bar for a list of permits, both issued (dating back to 2019) and in review.  More detailed instructions on how to search public records can be found here.

Please use the Interactive Map to verify if you are within City Limits. Do not rely on your mailing address; many "Snohomish" addresses are for properties that are actually in unincorporated areas. You may also check the Snohomish County Assessor's website or your property tax bill. If property taxes are paid to the County or a different jurisdiction, then the property is not in the City of Snohomish.

Generally, if your property is 5,000 square feet or larger, you are allowed to have up to five hens. See our Chickens & Livestock web page for more information. Animal regulations are included in Chapter 7.04 of the Snohomish Municipal Code.

Click to open up the interactive zoning map. Enter your address in the search bar or navigate to the area on the map. Match the color of the property to the "Zone" legend. Zoning designations correspond to the regulations of the Snohomish Municipal Code, Title 14.

The City's land use tables are in Chapter 14.207 of the Snohomish Municipal Code.

In general, most exterior building modifications require design review, except in the Single Family designation outside the Historic District and the Pilchuck District. In the Historic District, design review is done through the Design Review Board, an advisory body that meets monthly. Outside the Historic District, design review is done administratively by City Staff.  Check the applicable design standards for your project.  Historic District, Pilchuck District, General Design Standards.

We are available to help answer questions about the permitting process. Contact the Permit Center at 360-282-3156 or stop by City Hall.  If you have already submitted a permit application, you can check the status online using the SSPP.

Subdivision, or "platting" is a way to create new lots to be sold individually.  For most residential properties, the minimum lot size for a standard subdivision is 7,200 square feet.  So your property would need to be at least twice that (14,400 square feet) in order to get two lots.  You can find more information in the Plat FAQ and Chapter 14.215 SMC.

The platting process generally follows these steps.

The City of Snohomish provides water, sewer, and storm drainage services.  Garbage, recycling, and yard waste services are provided by Republic Services.

For more information on local service providers: https://www.snohomishwa.gov/137/Utility-Billing

We provide several payment options, you can pay: 

• City Hall located at 116 Union Avenue Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday 8 AM to 4 PM, Monday or Friday by appointment.  Please call 360-568-3115
• Drop box located on the north side of City Hall (116 Union Avenue)
• By mail – 116 Union Avenue, Snohomish, WA 98290
• Online through municipal online payment system
• Through your bank's bill pay service 
• By phone: 1-833-501-5730
• Sign up for e-bills (go paperless)

For more payment information: https://www.snohomishwa.gov/137/Utility-Billing

To request changes to an account you can call City Hall at 360-568-3115, submit the change request form located on the back of your utility bill or go to the Account changes page. Changes to an account may include; move in/move out, turning services on/off (vacation/abandon rate), new mailing address, level of garbage service change, etc.

The City of Snohomish bills on a bi-monthly (every other month) schedule, water meters are read every other month. 

City staff read meters through manual read, touch read (wand), or radio read. The device then imports the information into the City’s computers making the meter reading faster and more accurate.

Utility billing and meter reading is divided into two cycles. Meter reading generally starts on the 10th of each month. Utility bills are generated at the end of the month and resident will receive the utility bill around the 5th of the following month. 

Yes, base utility rates continue to accrue even if a property is vacant. An abandoned occupant rate is available to customers where no usage of water is anticipated for a continuous period and where no human habitation or active business operations is occurring. The abandoned rate is only available upon prior written notice to the city.

https://www.snohomishwa.gov/497/Account-Changes

Utility Bills are due by the 20th of the month following the close of the bill (for the billing period of January 1 – February 28, bill is due March 20th). 

Low-income households may apply to receive water, sewer and garbage services at a discount of the monthly minimum charge. Click here for more information or to apply

Households may request a payment arrangement. Customers must complete the Utility Payment Arrangement Application Form online, The payment arrangement request must be approved by the Finance Department. 

The City is responsible for repairing water mains, service lines and water meters. Pipes from the water meter to a residence or business are the responsibility of the property owner. 

To test for leaks: Turn off all faucets and appliances using water. Check to see if the meter’s low flow indicator (dial, small red or black triangle) is moving and record the reading. Without using any water, recheck the meter in one hour. If the low flow indicator is moving or the reading has changed, water is running through the meter and may indicate a leak. If you find and repair a leak, you can request a water leak adjustment to your utility bill.

If you're still unsure if you have a water leak or would like to verify that the repair was successful, please contact City Hall at 360-568-3115 to request assistance. 

Republic Services provides solid waste, recycling, and yard waste pick up for weekly residential customers every Friday. 

To change service levels, make a payment or information on commercial service, contact Republic Services at 425-778-0188 or https://www.republicservices.com/municipality/snohomish-wa. 

Contact Republic Services for any questions you have about your garbage, yard waste, or recycle service.

Both water and sewer charges are calculated based on the water consumption. Consumption is billed in hundreds of cubic feet (100 cubic feet equals 748 gallons). The base rate for each service includes 4 units (400 cubic feet). Each unit (100 cubic feet) over the 4 units included in the base rate, is billed at the overage rate.

Click here for current utility rates. 

If there is an immediate emergency threat to life or property, DIAL 9-1-1.  Examples include

• Any urgent medical or fire situation
• Any crime in progress or suspicious activity
• Anytime you fear for your safety or the safety of others

When you call 911, be prepared to answer the call-taker's questions, which may include:

• The location of the emergency, including the street address and/or landmarks.
• The phone number of calling party.
• The nature of the emergency.
• Details about the emergency; such as a physical description of a person who may have committed a crime, a description of any fire that may be burning, or a description of injuries or symptoms being experienced by a person requiring urgent medical attention.

For Non-Emergencies, call 425-407-3999 or file an online crime report. Examples include:

• A non-violent crime that occurred earlier and you have no suspect information, such as vandalism
• Emergency services personnel are needed but there is no immediate danger to life or property
• A found pet or property
• Illegal firework complaints

Call 911 for Emergencies

If there is an immediate emergency threat to life or property, DIAL 9-1-1.  Examples include

• Any urgent medical or fire situation
• Any crime in progress or suspicious activity
• Anytime you fear for your safety or the safety of others

When you call 911, be prepared to answer the call-taker's questions, which may include:

• The location of the emergency, including the street address and/or landmarks.
• The phone number of calling party.
• The nature of the emergency.
• Details about the emergency; such as a physical description of a person who may have committed a crime, a description of any fire that may be burning, or a description of injuries or symptoms being experienced by a person requiring urgent medical attention.

Non-Emergency Reporting

For Non-Emergencies, call 425-407-3999 or file an online crime report. Examples include:

• A non-violent crime that occurred earlier and you have no suspect information, such as vandalism
• Emergency services personnel are needed but there is no immediate danger to life or property
• A found pet or property
• Illegal firework complaints

To report a power outage, call Snohomish County PUD at 425-783-1001.

Accident Reports

If you are involved in an accident and you and the other driver decide to report on your own, you can visit Washington State Patrol to learn how to complete the report.

Internet Crime 

Crimes committed over the internet can be reported at the Internet Crime Complaint Center. Many of these crimes are interstate or international, and the IC3 will evaluate the complaint and contact the appropriate investigating agency.

Contacting the Police Department

For non-emergency inquires, call the Snohomish Police Department at 360-568-0888. Call us to:

• Request a copy of a police report
• Get fingerprinting or concealed pistol license application
• Leave a non-urgent message for an officer
• Questions about pet licensing or parking regulations

Call 911 for Emergencies

The Snohomish Neighborhood Watch is the City’s main resource to help citizens create watches and coordinate information between existing ones.  The Public Safety Board assists in and guides formation of neighborhood watch with input from the Snohomish Police, Council, Mayor and city staff.

The role of the City and local police in these programs is limited. The City provides the information that is contained in the National Neighborhood Watch Program and to coordinate city wide events that provide residents with the opportunities to interact with other Neighborhood Watch Captains and members. The city and law enforcement do not provide training outside of the materials and information outlined in the national program.

Click Here to Sign Up

If your business is in unincorporated Snohomish county and has a Snohomish street address, please note that you only need a City of Snohomish business license if you do any business in Snohomish city limits. For example:

• A contractor with a job in Snohomish would need a non-resident City of Snohomish business license.
• A farm vending in the Snohomish Farmers Market would need a non-resident City of Snohomish business license.

Businesses in unincorporated Snohomish should not apply for general or home occupation business licenses.

If your business is in unincorporated Snohomish and doesn't conduct any business in Snohomish city limits, then you do not need any City of Snohomish business licenses.

Most business activities require a business license. If you are "engaging in business," as defined by SMC 5.02.015, you are required to first obtain a Snohomish city endorsement on your business license.

"Engaging in business" means commencing, conducting, or continuing in business, and also the exercise of corporate or franchise powers, as well as liquidating a business when the liquidators thereof hold themselves out to the public as conducting such business.

Without being all-inclusive, any one of the following activities conducted within the City by a person, or its employee, agent, representative, independent contractor, broker, or another acting on its behalf constitutes engaging in business and requires a person to register and obtain a business license:

1. Owning, renting, leasing, maintaining, or having the right to use, or using, tangible personal property, intangible personal property, or real property permanently or temporarily located in the City.
2. Owning, renting, leasing, using, or maintaining an office, place of business, or other establishment in the City.
3. Soliciting sales.
4. Making repairs or providing maintenance or service to real or tangible personal property, including warranty work and property maintenance.
5. Providing technical assistance or service, including quality control, product inspections, warranty work, or similar services on or in connection with tangible personal property sold by the person or on its behalf.
6. Installing, constructing, or supervising installation or construction of real or tangible personal property.
7. Soliciting, negotiating, or approving franchise, license, or other similar agreements.
8. Collecting current or delinquent accounts.
9. Picking up and transporting tangible personal property, solid waste, construction debris, or excavated materials.
10. Providing disinfecting and pest control services, employment and labor pool services, home nursing care, janitorial services, appraising, landscape architectural services, security system services, surveying, and real estate services, including the listing of homes and managing real property.
11. Rendering professional services such as those provided by accountants, architects, attorneys, auctioneers, consultants, engineers, professional athletes, barbers, baseball clubs and other sports organizations, chemists, psychologists, court reporters, dentists, doctors, detectives, laboratory operators, teachers, veterinarians.
12. Meeting with customers or potential customers, even when no sales or orders are solicited at the meetings.
13. Training or recruiting agents, representatives, independent contractors, brokers or others, domiciled or operating on a job in the City, acting on its behalf, or for customers or potential customers.
14. Investigating, resolving, or otherwise assisting in resolving customer complaints.
15. In-store stocking or manipulating products or goods, sold to and owned by a customer, regardless of where sale and delivery of the goods took place.
16. Delivering goods in vehicles owned, rented, leased, used, or maintained by the person or another acting on its behalf.

Per SMC 5.02.015(D): If a person, or its employee, agent, representative, independent contractor, broker or another acting on the person’s behalf, engages in no other activities in or with the City but the following, it need not register and obtain a business license:

1. Meeting with suppliers of goods and services as a customer.
2. Meeting with government representatives in their official capacity, other than those performing contracting or purchasing functions.
3. Attending meetings, such as board meetings, retreats, seminars, and conferences, or other meetings wherein the person does not provide training in connection with tangible personal property sold by the person or on its behalf. This provision does not apply to any board of directors member or attendee engaging in business such as a member of a board of directors who attends a board meeting.
4. Renting tangible or intangible property as a customer when the property is not used in the City.
5. Attending, but not participating in, a trade show or multiple vendor events. Persons participating at a trade show shall review the City’s trade show or multiple vendor event ordinances.
6. Conducting advertising through the mail.
7. Soliciting sales by phone from a location outside the City.

Additionally, per SMC 5.02.030, the following businesses are exempt from licensure:

1. Nonprofit activities carried on by religious, charitable, benevolent, fraternal, or social organizations.
2. Public utility companies.
3. Any instrumentality of the United States, state of Washington, or political subdivision thereof with respect to the exercise of governmental functions.
4. Garage sales conducted on residential premises in compliance with the City zoning code.
5. Businesses which are specifically licensed pursuant to other chapters in the Snohomish Municipal Code.
6. Businesses where the sale or contract for goods occurred on business premises outside of the City, and the only event occurring within the City was the mere delivery of the goods to the customer or client.
7. Consignors when sales taxes are collected and remitted to the state by the consignee.
8. Persons or organizations that provide three (3) or less rooms or apartments for residential use.

There are four main business license types:

• General business licenses are for businesses that maintain a commercial location (store, office, warehouse, etc.) in Snohomish city limits.
• Nonprofit business licenses are for nonprofits wishing to have a business license for their records, although nonprofit activities carried out by religious, charitable, benevolent, fraternal, or social organizations are exempt from the City's business licensing requirements.
• Home occupation business licenses are for home-based businesses in Snohomish city limits.
• Non-resident business licenses are for businesses based outside Snohomish city limits that conduct business inside Snohomish city limits. 

If you're not sure which license type is right for you, email info@snohomishwa.gov or call 360-568-1375.

Enter your business address into the City of Snohomish boundary map.

First, please note that the City of Snohomish is a Department of Revenue Business Licensing Service partner. This means that rather than applying for a license directly from the City, you can apply for a license through the Department of Revenue (DOR).

If your business is new, follow the instructions on their website for applying for a new business license.

If you already have a business license and need to add a City of Snohomish endorsement, follow their instructions on updating your business license.

Please note that the City cannot troubleshoot problems with the Department of Revenue application. For assistance, contact DOR directly.

Business license fees vary by:

• License type
• Total number of employees
• Reported gross annual income (for non-resident businesses)

You can review current fees on the Department of Revenue website.

Yes, each business location needs a separate license. To add a new location, follow the instructions on the Department of Revenue's website.

Since the City of Snohomish is a Department of Revenue Business Licensing Service partner, all updates to your business license should be made through the Department of Revenue. To learn more, review the Department of Revenue's instructions on updating your account information.

Follow the Department of Revenue's instructions on updating your account information. For assistance, contact the Department of Revenue directly.

No. After your business license has been issued, license fees are non-refundable.

Yes, per SMC 14.207.070, short-term, vacation, or transient rentals are allowed in the City of Snohomish.

Short-term rentals are a type of lodging sometimes called vacation rentals. A house, condo, or apartment (or a part of one) that is rented for a fee for fewer than 30 consecutive nights is a short-term rental. Examples of short-term rentals are those rented through platforms such as Airbnb and VRBO. 

To ensure compliance with the City and State regulations, all short-term rentals within the City must:

1. Have a business license to operate
2. Pay transient rental, hotel/motel, lodging, and other taxes as required for transient accommodations in the city pursuant to WAC 458-20-166.
3. Not use commercial spaces for short-term rentals.
4. Not provide any services beyond housekeeping between visits.
5. Not be rented to the same party for more than 30 consecutive days.
6. Only be rented to a single party. A party is a group of persons gathering for the same social purpose.
7. Be for the entire structure or for a self-contained living space within a structure. Only one self-contained living space within a detached single-family residence shall be rented at a time.

Please note that short-term rentals require a general business license, not a home occupation license.

Short-term rentals require general business licenses (not home occupation business licenses).

No. Cannabis dispensaries are a nuisance per SMC 9.100.030(C) and are thus an ineligible business activity per SMC 5.02.080.

The retail sales tax rate is currently 9.3% for most purchases and 9.5% for vehicle sales/leases.

The City encourages lifelong volunteering. We encourage you to connect with our many community partners and service organizations to seek out opportunities.

Consider applying for one of the City's Boards & Commissions:

• Design Review Board
• Economic Development Advisory Board
• Park and Forestry Board
• Planning Commission
• Public Safety Board
• Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
• Youth Council
• Human Services Advisory Board

View Current Openings

As stewards of our community’s resources, City staff have a responsibility to meet today’s needs while also planning wisely for the future. It’s worth asking: does it make sense to keep spending taxpayer dollars on short-term fixes—band aids that need to be redone every few years—or should we invest in infrastructure that will serve Snohomish for decades to come?

Currently, City staff and equipment are spread across more than half a dozen locations, including facilities that are over 100 years old. This fragmentation creates inefficiencies, increases maintenance costs, and limits our ability to deliver services effectively. The need to consolidate operations and build a new city hall was identified more than 20 years ago, but progress has been slow and inconsistent.

Today, the cost of maintaining and updating our aging facilities is approaching the cost of building new—without providing the added capacity or modern functionality we need to serve a growing community. A new city campus would not only address current challenges but also position us to meet future demands with greater efficiency, sustainability, and resilience.

Snohomish Fire District 4 purchased parcels on Pine Avenue, known as the Steuber Property, for $6.35M. The City purchased 57% of the property from the Fire District with $3.6M paid in full out of the City’s reserves. The City has completed all design work primarily through grant funding received from the Department of Commerce, with the infrastructure construction being for out of applicable enterprise funds and other City revenue sources.

Over the last few months, staff worked to consolidate the primary building down to two stories while still preserving space for all needs. This work has resulted in a cost savings of at least $12M from estimates presented in January 2025. Revised cost estimates for the City’s building construction are $45-55M, depending on which phasing option the City moves forward with. The construction will be paid through grants, bonds, loans, and City funds. The goal is to get the Campus to a "shovel ready" project, while continuing to seek additional funding. Staff will work with Council to reassess project readiness if/when the economy stabilizes with more predictability in long-range outlooks.

The cost estimates were developed through two professional studies commissioned by the City Council. First, a feasibility study was completed by PACE Engineers in 2022–2023 to evaluate relocating the Public Works yard to the City-owned “pit” site off Three Lakes Road. Their preliminary estimate to relocate Public Works to the “pit” was $22.5M. Then at Council direction in 2023, the City hired MENG Analysis to conduct a comprehensive Facilities Condition Assessment of all City-owned buildings. MENG reviewed the feasibility study done by PACE Engineers and updated the cost estimates using current pricing and data, and the estimate to move Public Works was $26.2M. Their report also identified over $37 million in deficiencies across all facilities that would need to be addressed between 2023-2042. These studies form the basis for the City’s financial planning and are available under “Related Documents” on the Public Safety & City Services Campus webpage.

Yes, the City completed a modest remodel of City Hall in 2014 to address immediate space and safety needs. The project, which cost around $400K, added a small building extension and made targeted upgrades to windows, insulation, HVAC, and interior finishes. However, this was not a full modernization or expansion, and it did not resolve long-term infrastructure challenges or provide additional capacity for future growth. The current Public Safety & City Campus proposal is a strategic investment to meet both today’s service demands and tomorrow’s needs.

Neither the City nor Fire District #4 have plans to ask the community for new taxes to complete any of these capital projects, nor will there be a bill sent to every resident. The Fire District’s capital facilities plan has been in effect for some time and their current levies, as have been passed and renewed since 2011, will fund their projects. 

The current Utilities building at Public Works site—which is a construction trailer installed in 2009— was only approved for temporary use until April 2027. Continuing operations there beyond that date would violate City Code and risk higher flood insurance premiums for residents. The site is located in a 100-year floodplain and a liquefaction zone, making it unsafe for long-term use and emergency response. Additionally, the land has long been planned for future park use and does not meet shoreline regulations. After evaluating other locations and considering the high cost of repairs across multiple City facilities, investing in a new Civic Campus is the most responsible and cost-effective solution to meet both current and future needs.

Flood risk for the Public Works yard was determined through FEMA Floodplain Mapping, the City's Shoreline Management Plan, and the SEPA Review & Hearing Examiner Decision in 2009.

Locating fire services, police services, and city services on one site will enhance communication between agencies, providing improved service to the community. Consolidating city services in the same area will provide more efficient access for the public and creating multi-use meeting rooms and parking areas will be more cost-effective for taxpayers. The City currently has staff and equipment scattered across a half dozen locations, some in facilities that are over a century old. The existing infrastructure no longer supports the service needs of our growing community. The costs to upgrade facilities to current needs approach the costs to build new facilities, without adding additional capacity for future needs. Building a combined campus will protect taxpayers from ongoing facility improvements projected to support the services the community will require in the coming years. In addition, the new facilities will be designed to be much more accessible, energy efficient, and environmentally sustainable than any of the existing facilities.

The site will consist of two projects: the Snohomish County Fire District 4 portion and the City of Snohomish portion. These will house new stations for both Snohomish Fire District 4 and the Snohomish Police Department, Fire District Administration, and City Hall and Public Works facilities. The future City Hall building will include a training room to be used by City staff and first responders, as well as a shared space to hold City Council, Fire Commissioner, and other boards and commission meetings. This facility will also serve as a central location for Snohomish County Sheriff's Office deputies and the Washington State Patrol to utilize for evidence, paperwork, and training.

While the Fire District had considered Snohomish County’s former Public Works site off Avenue D, that location does not achieve an increased level of service for overall operations, so it was removed from further consideration. Snohomish County also had specific goals for how that land would be sold.

The City had not considered the property on Bonneville as it was not for sale when the property acquisition phase was underway several years ago. Once the City and Fire District entered into a purchase and sale agreement on the property on Pine, it was no longer necessary to look at additional parcels of land. Since being alerted to the property, staff have done a cursory review of information available and have determined that it does not meet space and function needs for co-locating City staff or just the Public Works Department. Additionally, the majority of the property is covered by an easement to Bonneville Power Administration that significantly restricts the types of uses and materials permitted within the easement. Staff have reached out to BPA to get additional details, but it does not appear that Public Works equipment and activities would be allowed within that land.   

Construction will occur in several phases:

• The City and Fire District are working together on construction of transportation and utility infrastructure improvements which started in 2025.
• The Fire District started construction in the spring of 2025 and their building is expected to be complete by late-2026.
• Construction of the City’s buildings is tentatively expected to begin in late-2026 or 2027.

The current station off Maple will be maintained as a support services area. The station on Avenue D will be used until the new campus is completed, when it will be rebuilt to incorporate the needed earthquake, apparatus and firefighter health and safety issues. Renovations and/or construction of these projects will not impact the level of emergency services. 

There are no additional traffic signals proposed at this time for Third and Pine. Traffic calming, including pedestrian protective measures and channelization changes  are being proposed.

There is a 30-foot buffer or setback from the river, and the City will not be building or doing any construction within that buffer. A full geotechnical and environmental assessment was completed. No concerns were identified for the planned building footprint. 

A feasibility study of “the pit” was completed while the City was exploring options for this campus. The City would like to move as many of its operations to one location as possible to better serve the community. Architectural programming shows that all staff and most operational needs can be accommodated on the new campus site. The current goal is to complete the campus, and then consolidate operations at the current Public Works Shop site into a smaller footprint so that a large portion of the property can be repurposed into a community space. This may include additional parking, improved river access, a small amphitheater for outdoor performances and movie nights, areas for community markets and/or food trucks, community rentals, etc. The pit off Three Lakes Road would be retained for additional Public Works operational needs. 

No, the seller and the Fire District and City reached a voluntary purchase and sale agreement. However, eminent domain was a possibility if a voluntary agreement was not reached, so the Fire District Board passed a resolution stating that. This allowed for clear negotiations and provided advantages to the seller that would not have been available in a purchase and sale agreement with a private party. 

Snohomish County Fire District No. 4 did a comprehensive study that identified current deficiencies and future needs. Their stations were designed for volunteer use and not full-time firefighters, which our community requires. The current stations delay the Fire District’s ability to respond with large, segregated areas and multiple floors. They require earthquake-proof structures and additional space for firefighters. The Fire District also requires modern decontamination areas to improve the health and safety of firefighters and stations that can shelter emergency apparatus.

During the feasibility period, the City’s geotechnical consultant developed a robust testing plan but their access to the site was restricted, and the testing plan had to be modified. That round of analysis identified the possible presence of arsenic and Tetrachloroethylene. These preliminary findings suggested clean-up costs could be anywhere from $300k to over $1M, and that additional testing that went deeper and included access to more locations on the parcels would be needed to determine the extent of potential contamination.

The property owners independently hired a separate geotechnical consultant who was given access to the full site. Their testing, completed with a different testing method and lab, did not show the same levels of contamination and estimated that clean-up costs were more likely to be less than $200,000. 

The parties followed an agreed upon mediation process, which set a $1M “hold-back” from the purchase price to remain in escrow while a third geotechnical analysis is completed. The Fire District hired a mutually agreed upon consultant who sampled the same locations where possible arsenic and Tetrachloroethylene contamination had been identified, in addition to other locations on the property once all tenants vacated their properties. The final testing did not identify contamination levels that exceed mandatory reporting thresholds or require clean-up. It was recommended that about $150,000 be reserved as a contingency for further testing or potential clean-up identified during the construction phase.

Staff intend to seek state, and possibly national, historic designation for the City Hall building to protect its heritage and architecture. Once the Campus is completed, the current Engineering building and City Hall on Union Avenue will be sold. The site of the current Police Department on Maple Avenue is anticipated to be turned into senior housing. The long-term vision for the current Public Works Shop site is to turn it into a community public space that could feature the Snohomish Farmers Market, food truck court, a small amphitheater for movies or performances in the park, and improved river access for recreation and tourism. 

The current interlocal agreement (ILA) between the City and Fire District 4 was completed in 2004 and needed updates. The two agencies have developed a new ILA that clearly separates ownership of existing facilities while continuing the same collaborative working relationships into the future.

The City has compiled a list of resources in and around the City of Snohomish on our website here.

If you need help navigating these resources or have other resources needs contact our Community Navigator, Velvet Franz at 360-913-4524 or franz@snohomishwa.gov.

Many resources are available at Snohomish County's 211 hotline.   211 is a free confidential community service and your one-stop connection to the local services you need, from utility assistance, food, housing, health, child care, after school programs, elder care, crisis intervention and much more. 211 is always ready to assist you in finding the help you need. Dial the three digit number 211 on your phone or find Help here.  If you are outside of Washington or have a problem dialing the number 211, please dial 1-877-211-9274.

There are a number of programs to help with utilities either through the utility provider itself (including The City of Snohomish) as well as county wide programs.

Click Here for More Information

The Snohomish Senior Center offers a variety of programs and services.

Click Here to Visit Their Website

To report code violations, complete a Code Violation Complaint Form with as much detail as possible, or call City Hall at 360-568-3115. The complaint form will result in the quickest response.

The Planning & Development Services Department includes Code Enforcement, and is charged with enforcement of codes and standards related to Building, Zoning, Land Use, Health and Welfare, Nuisances, and other codes and standards included in the Snohomish Municipal Code. Code Enforcement is not responsible for parking violations, animal concerns, or criminal matters, these should be referred to Snohomish Police Department. 

For more information on Code Enforcement Codes and Standards: https://www.snohomishwa.gov/173/Code-Enforcement 

Lead service lines and the use of lead solder was banned in 1986, therefore homes built since 1986 were not included in the study. In addition, lead was generally not used for service lines greater than 2” in diameter.

Historically, water purveyors (the City) have not been responsible for the customer’s (private) service line.   This project is unique in that we’re required to identify the materials used from the meter to the building (private side) as well.

City staff took the following steps to identify service line materials:

• Historical plumbing and installation standards and best practices
• Permit records for service line repairs or replacements
• Capital project records
• City ordinances
• As-Built records
• Property owner verification
• City maintenance records
• Field verification
• Statistical approach approved by Washington Department of Health  

The inventory includes ALL service lines regardless of their actual or intended use, such as dedicated irrigation lines. Service line materials must be identified in one of four categories: 

• Lead
• Galvanized steel requiring replacement (GRR)
• Non-Lead
• Unknown

The inventory includes a detailed location description, sub-classifications for service line materials such as poly (plastic) or copper, and documentation of any other service line characteristics.

The City is committed to ensuring the safety and quality of our drinking water. We encourage homeowners to be aware of the potential sources of lead in their plumbing systems and to take appropriate action if necessary.

Lead can enter drinking water when plumbing materials containing lead corrode, particularly in conditions of high acidity or low mineral content, which can corrode pipes and fixtures. The most common sources of lead in drinking water include:

• Lead pipes, faucets, and fixtures: Homes with lead service lines, which connect the home to the water main, are typically the most significant source of lead in the water. These pipes are more likely to be found in older cities and homes built before 1986. (There is no indication of lead service lines in our water service area.) Brass or chrome-plated brass faucets: These can contain lead and contribute to the lead content in water.
• Plumbing with lead solder: Lead solder was commonly used in plumbing before 1986.

Hundreds of water samples are collected annually at the water source, during treatment and in the distribution system to determine the presence of any radioactive, biological, inorganic, volatile organic or synthetic organic contaminants. 

Lead in drinking water is primarily from materials and components associated with service lines and interior plumbing. Lead and copper can leach into a water system from the piping or the fixtures (faucets). Homes built or plumbed with copper pipe before the 1985 lead solder ban, may have used lead-based solder. 

The City is required to monitor for the presence of lead and copper at household taps every three years. Snohomish in conjunction with the City of Everett participate in a regional monitoring program. Ongoing testing shows that the City’s drinking water meets or exceeds all state and federal drinking water standards for lead and copper. For additional information on where our water comes from and testing results see the link below. 

 The City is responsible for providing high quality drinking water, but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components. 

Elevated levels of lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. If you are concerned about lead in your water, you may wish to have your water tested. Information on lead in water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available from the Environmental Protection Agency website. When your water has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking.

Pedestrian flags are designed to help pedestrians capture motorists' attention. However, they are not a replacement for the caution and safe crossing practices that pedestrians should always use when crossing a street, regardless of whether crossing treatments are present.

Pedestrian flags are an affordable option that can be installed quickly. Public Works staff secure the flag holders to an existing sign or utility pole near the crosswalk ends. If no pole is present, one is installed. After installation, the only recurring expense is replacing the flags. Volunteers are responsible for monitoring, replacing, and redistributing the flags as needed.

New pedestrian flag locations are occasionally initiated by Public Works staff. More often, however, they are prompted by a request from a citizen willing to volunteer to maintain the flags at a specific location. Public Works staff then evaluate the site to ensure it meets the criteria for flag installation.

1. It is an existing marked crosswalk in the City of Snohomish.
2. The crosswalk is not controlled by any traffic control device, such as a traffic signal, regulatory sign (Stop/Yield), or Rapid Flashing Beacon.
3. A willing volunteer has been identified and approved to replace missing flags and redistribute them as needed.

The Master Plan is necessary to address aging infrastructure, improve transportation safety, enhance pedestrian and cyclist access, and support long-term economic growth in the downtown area. Since the City will be addressing these issues, this creates a unique opportunity to start from zero. Input from the community that loves and interacts with this area is essential-what is wanted and envisioned for the future of First Street? By gathering feedback, a comprehensive understanding of potential plans can be developed, allowing work to begin on design and a phased approach to addressing these challenges. 

Key objectives include:

• Engaging the community, businesses, and property owners to identify the challenges and opportunities that will inform the future design of First Street
• Upgrading utilities and public spaces
• Improving traffic flow and safety
• Addressing parking needs
• Preserving the historic character of First Street
• Enhancing pedestrian and bicycle accessibility and safety.
• Better integration of adjacent parks, the gazebo and the riverfront with the First Street design
• Supporting local businesses and the use and function of First Street as a destination.

The plan will address First Street between Avenue J and Lincoln Avenue within the public right-of–way. The project is creating an inventory of historic elements such as entryways to businesses, sidewalk vaults and other features and a mitigation plan to protect and preserve these assets in rebuilding of First Street in the future.

The plan includes enhancements to intersections, pedestrian crossings, bike lanes, and parking configurations to improve overall safety and mobility.

We are looking at many options that could include:

• Adjustments to parking configurations (such as parallel or back-in angle parking)
• Sidewalk expansions to improve walkability
• Dedicated or shared bike lanes for safer cycling access

Yes, a parking study has assessed demand, availability, and potential solutions.

The City is evaluating parking policies, but maintaining free parking remains a priority.

The plan includes designated handicap parking, improved sidewalk ramps or curbless sidewalks, and accessibility enhancements.

Residents and businesses will be able to continue to participate through public meetings, surveys, and direct communication with the City.

Yes, the City will provide many opportunities for community feedback. These will include the farmers markets, the Fall Capital Project Open House, at City Council meetings, and multiple workshops via online surveys.

Absolutely. Public input is essential and will inform preliminary design concepts and the final plan where feasible.

Yes, construction will be phased in order to minimize disruptions. Specific timelines are dependent on available State & Federal funding and will be shared as planning progresses. The project is a long-term planning process and the soonest construction might begin would be 2027.

Yes, the City is already exploring strategies to minimize business disruptions, including alternative parking solutions and enhanced engagement efforts to communicate any potential disruptions.

Construction will cause temporary disruptions, including detours, parking adjustments, and noise.

This combination is being considered.

The mini-traffic circle is still under consideration. Further investigation is needed to determine feasibility.

Preliminary design shows 10.5-feet of separation which includes a 5-foot planter area, 6-inch vertical curb, and a 5-foot bike lane between the sidewalk and vehicle travel lane.  A 5-foot sidewalk is proposed on both sides of the road.   The separation distance may change as the design process moves forward.

The advisory lane would connect the existing sidewalk in front of Woodberry Hills to the sidewalk on Pine Avenue.   The connector road sidewalk will connect the existing Terrace Avenue pedestrian path to the sidewalk on 22^nd Street.

The current modeling of traffic data does not include pedestrian estimates.  The City is currently reviewing a method to include pedestrian trips in the traffic impact analysis process.  However, most pedestrian modeling does not track children separately.

The 55% figure was determined by the traffic consultant based on a traffic model analysis and destinations to the north and west that includes a school, churches, shopping center, and access to SR 9. 

Woodberry Hills has 111 lots.   The approved Traffic Impact Analysis showed no significant impacts to the intersections in the vicinity of Terrace Avenue. The connector road is not being planned because of Woodberry Hills, but rather because it provides improved ingress/egress for all residents currently using Terrace Avenue. 

From the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Design for Low Volume Roads, “A low-volume road is a road that is functionally classified as a local or minor collector road and has a design average daily traffic volume of 2,000 vehicles per day or less.”

A local road is a road whose primary function is to provide access to residences, farms, businesses, or other abutting property, rather than to serve through traffic. Although some through traffic may occasionally use a local road, through traffic service is not its primary purpose.

Most up to date average daily trip count on Terrace was 1050 daily trips.

Not necessarily, all options are being considered.

The city is investigating the option of making both sides of Terrace “No Parking”.

They are being considered both separately and together.

Pros: Reduced speeds, increased driver awareness, defined pedestrian facility

Cons: Stop signs can convey a false sense of security.  Not all drivers stop at stop signs.  

Pedestrians and drivers must continue to proceed with caution at intersections with stop signs.

LID costs have not been developed, and would only be explored if strong interest in an LID came from the neighborhood.  An area would be defined if the LID is developed.  Most likely it would include the Woodberry Hills development and the neighborhoods adjacent to Terrace Avenue and possibly 16^th Street.

We were trying to be respectful of everyone’s time on a weeknight by keeping the meeting short. Please feel free to send additional questions to the city for discussion.

Not at this time.  There are parcels along Terrace Avenue that are large enough to subdivide and be developed in the future.

Yes, that can be considered.

Considering adjusting the stormwater ditch at the corner to provide additional width at the corner.

A monitoring plan has not been developed at this time.  Expectation would include a combination of public input, visual surveys, and speed and traffic data comparisons.

The road is being proposed in an existing city owned right of way.  The transportation study completed on the connector road did not show significant traffic impacts to any of the adjacent roadways. (the final traffic report is available for reference)

No change to the existing right of way is proposed.

A gravel walkway is not considered a compliant ADA accessible pedestrian path. Filling in the ditch has significant stormwater improvements that would be required.

These are projects funded from different restricted funds. Please refer to the information provided in the Civic campus information page at www.snohomishwa.gov/817/Public-Safety-City-Services-Campus.

Restrictions to parking would be required if an advisory shoulder is installed.

The advisory lanes proposal will not change existing pavement width or current access for emergency vehicles.  The installation of the connector road will improve access for emergency vehicles.

The Woodberry Hills development paid $123,431 in traffic impact fees.  

A prioritization index was created as part of the ADA transition plan.  This includes proximity to Key Pedestrian Destinations: Including proximity to schools, parks, transit facilities, signals or roundabouts, public buildings, and downtown or commercial business centers. Facilities near neighborhoods, retail services, and government buildings received a higher score to reflect feedback received through the public engagement survey. Location Index Scores reflect the number of types of key pedestrian destinations within a defined radius. 

The City is working with the School District to improve pedestrian safety near schools.  Rapid flashing beacons and bulb-outs have been installed at Snohomish High School, Emerson Elementary School, and Cascade View Elementary School.  The City has received a grant to improve pedestrian safety at 13^th Street/Park Avenue in front of AIM High School that will include bulb-outs and rapid flashing beacons.  This project is scheduled for construction in 2025.  The City is working with the School District to improve the 5^th Street crosswalk at Avenue E near Snohomish High School.

City resources are used based on adopted priorities, industry standards, and ensuring infrastructure improvements are being done equitably around the City.  The 2023-2024 City Budget includes the City Council goals that will be updated during the preparation of the 2025-2026 City Budget that will also include a review of the project priorities.  There will be an opportunity for public review and comment.

Complaints must be filed no later than 180 days from the last date of alleged discrimination. For assistance, contact the City of Snohomish Title VI Coordinator, Rebekah Park, at park@snohomishwa.gov.  

If your complaint is forwarded to another agency, you be provided the name and contact information of the employee handling your complaint.

Federal law prohibits retaliation against individuals because they have filed a discrimination complaint or otherwise participated in a discrimination investigation. Any alleged retaliation should be reported in writing to the investigator. 

FHWA will render final decisions in all cases including those investigated by WSDOT. There are no administrative appeal forums in Title VI complaints. Once FHWA issues its final agency decision, a compliant is closed. 

There is no prohibition against a complainant filing a Title VI complaint simultaneously with a local public agency, WSDOT, and FHWA.

All Title VI complaints are logged. The complaint log must contain the following information for each complaint filed:

• The name and address of the person filing the compliant.
• The date of the complaint.
• The basis of the complaint.
• The disposition of the complaint.
• The status of the complaint. 

Complainants have the right to file a complaint directly with the federal funding agency. The following address is where Title VI complaints may be filed directly with FHWA: 

Federal Highway Administration 

U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Civil Rights

8th Floor E81-105

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE

Washington, DC 20590

CivilRights.FHWA@dot.gov