FAQs • Redmond, WA • CivicEngage

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Activity Registration

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1. What is the difference between Resident and Non-Resident Registration?: The City of Redmond has established a policy giving registration priority to residents living or working within the Redmond city limits. Please click here to access a map of Redmond's city limits. Please call our office to clarify if you are unsure of your status.

2. How can I identify the correct Resident or Non-Resident pricing?

Fees are indicated in the program descriptions as follows:

Resident fees = R
Non-resident fees = N

3. Are there age requirements for Redmond recreation activities?: Yes, to ensure a successful program experience for your child, program age requirements are established by the instructors and the recreation program coordinators. Appropriate age requirements are determined for each program based on developmental guidelines and staff experience working with the children in each of the program areas. Please register your child for an age appropriate program. Please contact Guest Services for registration questions at 425-556-2300.

4. Does the City of Redmond offer any fee assistance for recreation programs and activities?: The City of Redmond Parks and Recreation Department desires to make recreational opportunities available to all interested Redmond residents regardless of income. Please fill out the Fee Assistance Application and deliver it with your acceptable proof of income to the Guest Services Office at 6505 176th Ave NE, Redmond WA 98052.

5. What are Redmond Parks and Recreation's policies for withdrawals & refunds?

The following policies apply for Parks & Recreation programs, with the exception of Farrel-McWhirter Preschool (please see Preschool Parent Guide), or any events that require tickets, in which no refund will be issued. All questions regarding withdrawals, refunds or transfers can be directed to Guest Services at 425-556-2300.

All requests to withdraw or receive a refund must be submitted in writing.
Withdrawal requests received more than seven (7) days from the first day of class receive a full refund, less a 10% administrative fee.
Withdrawal requests received seven (7) days or less from the first day of class receive a 50% refund. No refunds are issued after a class meets.
There are no refunds for days missed due to inclement weather, unless the class or event is cancelled by the Parks & Recreation Department.
Transfers from one activity to another will be granted, but are available within above guidelines and transfer fees may be assessed.
In the event that the Parks & Recreation Department cancels a program, you will be notified and a refund will be issued.

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Backflow Prevention

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1. What causes back pressure?: Heating systems, elevated storage tanks, boilers, and other pressure producing systems can create pressure in the customer's plumbing that exceeds the supply pressure. This hydraulic condition can push contaminated water back into the fresh water supply.

2. What is a backflow assembly?: A backflow prevention device is an assembly that is installed in a plumbing system to enable water to flow in only a forward direction.

3. What does "approved" mean when selecting an assembly?: Any type of backflow prevention assembly must be on the "approved list" published by the University of Southern California Foundation for Cross Connection Control and Hydraulic Research.

4. Is it necessary for every water customer to have backflow protection?: No. State regulations exempt single family residences from backflow requirements unless a hazard exists, such as an irrigation system, fire suppression system, a boiler or any other potential hazard.

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Bike Share

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1. How will I use bike share?: Each company is independent and has its own system of bikes and phone application. The phone application is used to find bikes, then to unlock a bicycle, and pay for rides (certain companies offer the first ride for free). Phone applications may be found via company websites, the Apple or Google Play stores.

2. How will bike share be implemented?: The City of Redmond is considering a pilot program. Under the current concept being considered, the city would regulate bike share through a right-of-way use permit which contains conditions the company must follow to operate, and continue to operate in Redmond. The City will monitor the performance of each company throughout the pilot program and can revoke the permit of a permittee that is not meeting the requirements.

3. When would bike share be implemented?

The City of Redmond is considering a fall implementation of bike share. The right-of-way permit code (RMC 12.08) would need to first be amended to require a permit for vendors to operate bike share in Redmond. This will require an ordinance to be approved by City Council. City Council agendas can be viewed here.

Once the code amendment is adopted, bike share permits can then be issued. Private companies would then be allowed to apply for a permit which includes insurance, bonding, and indemnification of the city.

4. How will the City control bike clutter and parking?: The permit requirements are in consideration and some areas of focus are:

• limiting the number of bikes allowed in Redmond and subareas
• responsiveness to citizen complaints
• moving any bicycles that are a nuisance, a hazard, or in a walkway
• bicycle maintenance
• remedies to address the above issues

5. How much will this cost the City?: Bike share service would be provided by these companies at no cost to the city. The permit will include indemnification, liability insurance, bonding in case of termination, and reimbursement of any city staff time for monitoring and bike moving.

6. Why is Redmond considering implementing bike share?: Redmond’s Transportation Master Plan (TMP) envisions improved travel choices to provide mobility. One option to achieve this strategy is to implement bike share to improve access to bicycles. This will:

1. Provide bicycles for short trips: Convenient access to bicycles will enable short trips to be taken by bicycle instead of by car. This may potentially be a significant number of trips. The average trip length for all trips in Redmond is 2.2 miles or approximately a 15-minute bicycle ride.

2. First/last mile connections to transit: Certain bus or light rail trips are not competitive with car travel because the first mile to transit (e.g. home to bus stop) or the last mile from transit (e.g. bus to office) is too time-consuming. Bike share could provide bicycles near offices, transit stops, and homes (where appropriate) which can reduce the first/last mile trip time to 5 or 10 minutes. This will make transit time competitive with a car for certain trips thereby improving travel choices.

7. What are other neighboring cities doing?

Seattle and Bothell have pilot programs currently in operation while Bellevue and Kirkland are investigating their own pilot programs to be implemented in the coming months. Redmond city staff have been working in cooperation with staff from some of these cities, although each will produce their own unique bike share program.

Bellevue Bike Share website

Seattle has implemented free-floating bike share: Seattle Bike share website

8. What about helmets?: King County has a helmet law which applies in Redmond. This helmet law also applies in Seattle. Seattle’s bike share permit requires the bike share companies to “have visible language that notifies the user that… helmets shall be worn while riding a bicycle in King County…”. Currently, none of the Seattle bike share vendors are providing helmets. Redmond can enforce the helmet law, but is not obligated to. We are considering how to address this in the permit conditions.

9. If I see a bike that is parked wrong, on my property or needs maintenance, what do I do?

Please contact the particular bike share company either through the phone number on the bike or their phone app.

The City’s contact for this project is Peter Dane, Planner. Peter can be reached at pbdane@redmond.gov.

10. Other Resources: North American Bike Share Association: Dockless Bike share Regulation Preliminary Guidance – Jan 2018
Twelve Tone Consulting (Chicago): Regulation of Dockless Bikes – March 2018
Charlotte, NC – Bike share website and their Permit Requirements
Montgomery County, MD – Permit Language
Durham, NC – Ordinance to Establish Permit Procedure
www.limebike.com
www.spin.pm

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Business Licensing

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1. Can I renew my license before December 31, for the following year?: City of Redmond General Business Licenses are no longer on a calendar year renewal cycle and will change to your existing anniversary/renewal date with the State of Washington in an effort to streamline and simplify the application and renewal process for you.

2. What types of businesses need to have a business license?

All entities engaged in business within the Redmond City limits, including those physically located in commercial or in-home locations inside the City limits, those coming inside City limits to perform work, and those who earn money without a physical presence by providing services, such as telecommunications, must obtain a City of Redmond general business license. Washington State Law provides a model definition for “engaging in business” in order to create consistency amongst all Washington State cities who enforce a business licensing program. The complete definition can be found at Redmond Municipal Code 5.04.030.

Businesses Located Outside of Redmond

If your place of business is not located within the City limits, but you or your agents will be physically coming into the City limits to conduct business or to call on clients, you will need a Non-Resident Redmond business license. In addition, those who earn money without physical presence, by providing services such as telecommunications or by receiving rents, need to obtain a Non-Resident Redmond business license.

Washington State Law also requires an established minimum sales/revenue threshold for those coming into the City to conduct business. If your business is located outside of Redmond AND you will gross less than $2,000.00 in Redmond, applying for a Non-Resident Redmond business license is still required but will be exempt from the licensing fee.

3. When there are no employees actually working in the City, how is the fee determined?

If you do not have any employees actually working in the City and do not have a physical location/presence in the City, but are providing services in the City as is the case with telecommunications providers for example, a Non-Resident Business License is required and the minimum license fee of $132.00 in 2023 would apply.

This does not pertain to a City of Redmond Business with a physical location/presence in the City and meeting the definition of "Engaging in Business" as outlined in the Redmond Municipal Code Chapter 5.04.030 - General Business Regulations - Definitions, that has employees telecommuting/working remotely outside of the City. All employee hours worked for that business, including those hours worked remotely and/or from home, must be reported for the purpose of determining the fee per the definition of "Employee".

4. What if my business is located outside of Redmond?: If your place of business is not located within the City limits, but you or your agents will be physically coming into the City limits to conduct business or to call on clients, you will need a Non-Resident Redmond business license. In addition, those who earn money without physical presence, by providing services such as telecommunications or by receiving rents, need to obtain a Non-Resident Redmond business license.

5. What is a home based business?: A home based business allows limited commercial activity within residences providing the business does not interfere with the residential character of the neighborhood through noise, traffic, over-sized vehicles, signs, or safety hazards that may be generated. Complete information on home based business regulations can be found at Redmond Zoning Code 21.08.340.
Home based businesses must apply/renew their City of Redmond General Business License through the Washington State Business Licensing Service (BLS) portal and select the license type of "home occupation business".

6. What entities are exempt from business licensing requirements?

The following list summarizes the entities that are exempt from licensing requirements. Complete details can be found at Redmond Municipal Code 5.04.130.

Governmental entities
Farmer, gardener, or other person who sells, delivers or peddles any farm produce generated by such person in the state
Residential rental or leasing of four or less units at any one location within the City
Insurance producer who represents companies or sells insurance to the public and is properly licensed by the state
Newspaper carriers under the age of 18
Any person, business, enterprise, firm or corporation which is exempt from licensing or taxing under state or federal law
Community special events that are sponsored by the City and are open to the public without admission fees
A seller located outside the City merely delivering goods into the City by means of a common carrier

All nonprofit businesses are required to obtain a business license. Those providing proof of their IRS 501(c)(3) Federal Tax Exemption Status will be exempt from the licensing fee.

7. How soon will I get my license?

General business licenses typically take 14-21 days from application submittal to license issuance provided all state licensing is in place. Review of the license application takes place by multiple City departments to ensure accuracy, compliance with zoning and other municipal codes, and all other requirements are met for the business activity to take place at the specific location. Licenses will be sent to you upon final approval by the Washington State Business Licensing Service (BLS), not the City of Redmond.

In most cases, Non-Resident Redmond Business Licenses (those coming into the City from outside of the City limits to engage in business) are approved in less time as the review process is not as extensive. If you have applied for a business license but have yet to receive it and need to pull a permit, in which a current business license is required, you can print/provide proof of your application confirmation from the Washington State Department of Revenue Business Licensing Service (BLS) website and we will then be able to proceed with Development Services for the permit.

8. How long is the license in effect?: Once your City of Redmond General Business License is aligned with your State anniversary/expiration date, your Redmond license is valid for one year and requires annual renewals on or before your anniversary date.

9. Can I assume the former owner's license?: No, business licenses are nontransferable. A new owner must apply for a new business license.

10. Who can help me confirm the zoning requirements applicable to the location of my business?: If your business is located in a commercial location, please contact the Planner on Call at 425-556-2494 or via email at planneroncall@redmond.gov to confirm zoning requirements applicable for your location. To confirm that the building, space, or suite is an appropriate use for your type of business please contact the Plans Examiner at 425-556-2493 or via email at plansexaminer@redmond.gov.

11. What happens if I move my business to a new location?

All updates/changes to a business’s information, including contact information, mailing address, new business location address, or change in business activities should be processed through the Washington State Business Licensing Service (BLS).

Please visit www.dor.wa.gov/change to request changes. You may need to file a new business license application to change the physical address of a business.

12. What happens if I add another location within the Redmond City limits?

Please visit www.dor.wa.gov/change to request changes. You may need to file a new business license application to change the physical address of a business or add another location.

13. How do businesses determine the license fee?

For new applications, estimate the maximum number of employee hours expected to be worked in the City of Redmond during the upcoming year. Once there is an established year of history in Redmond, the hours and resulting fee should be calculated based on the sum of the four quarterly reports submitted to the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) for the previous year.

Businesses that did not file quarterly reports with L&I must determine the number of hours worked within the City and demonstrate, if required, to the satisfaction of the City, that the number of employee hours worked inside the City is correct.

The 2023 minimum license fee is $132.00, which covers up to 1,920 hours worked in the City.

14. What are the funds collected from Business Licensing used for?: 57% of the general business license fees collected are earmarked for improvements to the City’s transportation infrastructure that increase/improve overall business access and mobility. To date, the money collected has helped fund many beneficial transportation projects. The balance of collected fees contribute towards maintaining and enhancing the City’s other community defined priorities.

15. When is a business license denied?: In most cases, a business license is denied because of zoning or other code restrictions that conflict with the business activity type and the location’s zoning. A business license can also be denied because of legal violations or indebtedness to the City.

16. Does the City of Redmond charge quarterly taxes on incomes?: The City of Redmond does not charge a business and occupation (B&O) tax. The City does charge admissions taxes, gambling taxes, and occupational utility taxes on applicable businesses. For more information on City of Redmond taxes, see Taxes and Fees.

17. What are miscellaneous business licenses?

A "miscellaneous" license is also known as a regulatory or temporary license, which is separate from and in addition to a general business license. Regulatory licenses are required for the following business/activity types:

Adult Entertainment Facilities
Cabaret Dances
Carnival, Circus, and Amusement Activities
Master Event License
Music Boxes
Pawnbrokers
Peddlers, Solicitors, and Canvassers
Public Bathhouses
Public Dances and Dance Halls
Shooting Sports Facilities
Tow Trucks

Most regulatory/miscellaneous licenses are valid February 1 to January 31 of each calendar year and must be renewed annually. Please reference the specific portion of the Redmond Municipal Code Chapters 5.05 - 5.80 for complete details if you operate one of the business types outlined above.

For peddling, soliciting, and canvassing each person going door to door must obtain a license, submit a copy of their driver’s license, and agree to a background check. The approval process for a Peddler, Solicitor or Canvasser License takes approximately two weeks and an issued license is required prior to going door-to-door.

If you have any questions or would like a regulatory/miscellaneous license application sent to you please contact the City of Redmond at 425-556-2193 or businesslicense@redmond.gov.

18. What if I'm not able to use the online system?

Paper copy applications are available through the Washington State Business Licensing Service (BLS) website. For a City of Redmond General Business License you will need to complete the standard Business License Application and the City Addendum.

If you have any additional questions or need assistance with the paper application process please contact the Washington State Department of Revenue Business Licensing Service at bls@dor.gov or (360) 705-6741.

19. Where are the State Business Licensing Service physical locations if I wanted to process in person?: Washington State Business Licensing Service (BLS) has multiple locations throughout the region where you can access services in person. Please visit www.dor.wa.gov/contact-us for information and office locations.

20. I have additional general business licensing questions, where can I find more information?: Please visit the Washington State Business Licensing Service (BLS) FAQ’s for additional information regarding applications, renewals, fees, endorsements, and the overall process, steps, and what to expect.

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Cable Franchise Renewals

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1. Cable prices vary significantly between Redmond and other areas of the country. What can Redmond do to reduce this variation?: Federal Law and Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations prohibit the City from regulating rates in Redmond. Cable companies determine what they charge in various cities and regions of the country.

2. What can the City do to improve the quality of service provided by cable companies?: In the new franchises with Comcast and Ziply, the City can require higher customer service standards, increase penalties for violating standards, and increase efforts to enforce those standards.

3. Why aren’t there other cable companies to choose from in Redmond? What is the City doing to allow for more competition among cable companies and subsequently, more competitive pricing.: In accordance with Federal Law, the City of Redmond cable franchise agreements are non-exclusive. Other cable companies can choose to build their networks in Redmond, but building a cable network is expensive, particularly where the City does not have its own Municipal Electric System. Other cable companies would need to enter into franchises with the City which are materially similar to the Comcast and Ziply franchises and so far, there has been little interest from other wireline cable television competitors. Dish, and Direct TV are direct broadcast satellite providers and are available alternatives.

4. Why isn’t the City trying to attract other cable service providers to Redmond, including offering incentives for new entrants?: Federal Law and FCC regulations limit what the City can do to attract companies since the City must maintain parity between Comcast and Ziply and potential other wireline cable television providers. For most companies, expanding into Redmond would require major financial investment which could be financially unfeasible. There can be negative consequences to overbuilding, and as cord-cutting increases, those potential downsides also increase. Verizon elected to overbuild Comcast in 2008 and Frontier purchased Verizon’s cable system in 2009. At the beginning of May 2020, Frontier's franchise transferred to Northwest Fiber, LLC, doing business as Ziply.

5. Why doesn’t the City build its own cable infrastructure to provide better quality cable to residents?: Many municipalities are not as well suited to building and maintaining a cable network as private companies are. There are substantial financial costs and risks to consider, and studies have shown that when a city builds its own network, oftentimes not enough people will switch to or sign up for the city’s municipal cable system in order to make the municipal cable system financially viable.

6. When I have a contract dispute with the cable company, why doesn’t the City help me escalate the issue?: The City can assist you in this regard. Some cities used to employ full-time staff to respond to issues with cable service providers in their area and to manage cable television franchises. Adding City staff or contracting with a specialized company to field contract compliance issues within Redmond is a possibility.

7. Does the City currently monitor how well Comcast and Frontier provide service and comply with their contracts, and if no, why not?: The City does not actively monitor contract compliance but addresses issues as they arise with the cable providers. The City could contract with a specialized company to monitor service delivery.

8. What is the City doing to make the new contracts better than the old ones with respect to Customer Service issues?

There are several possibilities for improving on the old contracts from 2008 and 2013 including:

Negotiating higher customer service standards or unilaterally adopting newer customer service standards.
If permitted by Federal Law, negotiating consumer protection standards.
Negotiating or adopting increased penalties for violating standards.
Increasing enforcement of contract provisions by regularly monitoring cable company performance.
Shortening the term of the franchise renewals to allow for more frequent contract negotiations in the future.

9. If a cable service provider is not performing to existing customer service standards, can the City refuse to renew their contract?: Federal Law make it very difficult and very expensive to deny renewal and to push a cable provider out of a market once they are established and their infrastructure ,facilities, equipment and cable drops are in place. The most effective ways to improve cable price, quality, and customer service is competition and to negotiate state-of-the-art contracts and enforce them effectively. As previously mentioned, DirectTV and Dish are also available as alternatives to cable in the Redmond area. Additionally, over-the-top-services such as Amazon, Hulu and Netflix now provide alternatives to traditional cable service or can be added to traditional cable service.

10. Why is only one cable company available in my apartment building or neighborhood, and why doesn’t the City mandate that they cover my area?: This is complicated under Federal Law. In order to require a build-out with reasonable costs, density requirements can be included in franchises by the City. When Verizon negotiated with the City in 2008, the City included build-out exemptions in the franchise (which is now held by Ziply), in order to encourage competition, and be in compliance with Federal Law. Cable agreements which involve building cable lines to specific apartment buildings, or to private neighborhoods (where there are not public easements or City dedicated or City maintained streets), are negotiated between the building owner, or the neighborhood association, and the cable company.

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City Water

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1. How often is my meter read?: Residential meter - Every 2 months
Commercial meter - Monthly

2. How do I prevent my pipes from freezing?

Keep a trickle of water running from the faucets.
Wrap uninsulated pipes with newspaper, heat tape, foam, or self-adhesive insulating tape.
Keep doors ajar between heated and unheated rooms. The most common point for pipes freezing is in an unheated garage.

3. How can I thaw frozen pipes?

Shut off the water at the main shutoff valve and open the faucet nearest to the frozen pipe so it can drain as it thaws.
Use one of the following methods to gradually warm the frozen pipe. Be sure to work from the faucet toward the iced-up area.
Use the warm air from a hair dryer to gently defrost the pipe.
A heat lamp can be used for pipes behind walls, floors, or ceilings. Beam a heat lamp 8 or more inches from the surface. Use caution! If no other method is available, wrap the pipe in rags and pour hot water on it.
Never use an open flame. It can heat the pipe too quickly and break the pipe. There is always risk of fire as well.

4. Who is responsible for fixing leaks?: The City is responsible for leaks from the water main up to and including the water meter. Any leaks located between the meter and the home or building are the owner's responsibility.

5. How do I check for a leak?

Make sure no water is being used inside or outside the house.
Locate your water meter. It is usually found in the ground near the end of your driveway between your house and your neighbor’s house. If you have any trouble locating or reading your meter, contact us.
Check and record the current meter reading. Wait about 30 minutes (if possible, overnight is better). Remember: Do not use any water while you are waiting!
Read the water meter again. If the reading has changed, then you have a leak that requires immediate attention.
There is also a sweeping hand/triangle on many meters which moves when water is flowing though the meter. If this hand/triangle is moving when no one is using water, it's a good indicator there is a leak.
Next, locate the home’s main shut-off valve and shut-off the water at that valve (normally located in the basement or garage, directly behind an outdoor faucet; or outside, below an outdoor faucet).
Repeat steps 2 & 3. If the reading has changed, you have a leak in the underground water pipe between the meter and the house. If the reading is the same, there is a leak inside the home.

6. How can I locate a leak?

The sound of running water helps. If you hear it, follow it to its source.
If water is staining the ceiling or dripping down, the leak is probably directly above.
Occasionally, water may travel along a joist and then stain or drip at a point some distance from the leak.
Any wall stain is likely to be below the actual location of the leak and you’ll probably need to remove part of the wall to find it.
Without the sound of running water and without drips or stains as evidence, leaks are more difficult to find. Using a flashlight, check all the pipes in the basement or in the crawl space.
Most outside leaks occur at connections. One is at the meter and the other is near the point where the line enters the home or building. Sometimes the line leaks between these connections. Look for a wet or soft spot in your landscaping or near the driveway.

7. Should I hire a plumber or do it myself?

You can save a lot on the cost of a plumbing repair if you do it yourself. But, is it worth it? Clearly, changing a 15-cent faucet washer yourself beats paying a plumber for a $75 service call. In other situations, the choice may not be as clear. Before you tackle the large jobs yourself, consider the following:

Tools and equipment required to complete the job.
Building codes and permits.
Your skills and level of experience.
Cost of materials. In some cases it is prudent to hire a plumber.
Remember to get a few estimates and select a plumber who is licensed and bonded.

8. Is there PFAS in my water?: Redmond supplies drinking water to customers from five City supply wells and from Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) Tolt River Watershed. The City supply wells pump groundwater, which is water stored underground in the pores between the sand and gravel that are under Redmond. Although PFAS are not regulated contaminants, and routine testing is not required, the cities of Redmond and Seattle tested their water sources in 2015 and found no detection of PFAS. The City of Seattle conducted additional testing in 2018 and again found no detection of PFAS in the Tolt River Watershed supplies. Redmond conducted additional testing in 2020 and found trace amounts of PFAS in one water supply well. This well has been taken out of production and no longer supplies drinking water to residents. The City will re-sample all the drinking wells in November 2023 for PFAS following the latest sampling protocols.

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Code Enforcement - Home Businesses

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1. Where can a home business be located?

A home business may be located within any residential zone in the Redmond city limits. Presently, there are home businesses within the following neighborhoods:

Bear Creek
Downtown
Education Hill
Grass Lawn
North Redmond
Overlake
Sammamish Valley
Viewpoint
Willow

2. Can I operate more than one business out of my house?: Yes, providing that these additional businesses adhere to the home business regulations and do not impact the neighborhood.

3. What types of home businesses are currently in the City?

Redmond currently has over 800 home businesses - they range from software development to gift basket services and include:

Desktop publishing
Family day care
Hair cutting
Legal offices
Marketing services
Medical transcribing

4. Can a home business store goods, materials, or products outside their home?: No - a home business must be conducted wholly within the home or garage/accessory structure area, with the exception of play equipment related to a home daycare business.

5. Do I need to occupy the home where my business is located?: Yes, residency is a required element of conducting a home business.

6. How many employees can I have working at my home business?: If they are family members residing at the residence, there is no limit. However, only one person outside the family group may work at the residence. Family day care providers may have up to two additional employees.

7. Does the City restrict certain materials from entering my neighborhood?: Yes, the City does not allow any toxic, explosive, flammable, combustible, corrosive, radioactive, or other restricted materials to be stored or used on the site. The City is careful to review this potential problem area.

8. Can a home business build an illuminated storefront entrance or display a sign?

No. A home business must maintain and not change the neighborhood's appearance and residential character. The City prohibits:

The creation of separate entrances
Exterior alterations
The exterior storage of materials
Parking expansion
The use of any signs (other than one business related vehicle)

If a business owner is not willing to comply with these restrictions, the applicant will be encouraged to seek a business space within a commercial or industrial zone.

9. How many customers can a home business generate?: No combination of visitors, customers, and/or deliveries may exceed two per hour for a total of eight per day. Businesses that are seeking more traffic or parking are encouraged to locate at an existing commercial location.

10. Can I operate an auto repair business out of my home?

No. The City does not permit home-based businesses to perform:

Auto/boat repair
Body work
Detailing
Vehicle painting
Welding
Windshield repair

Office-only motor vehicle related home businesses are allowed.

11. Is there a limit on the number of business vehicles I can operate in my home business?

Yes, no more than one vehicle may be operated from the premises. Taxicab, van shuttle, and limousine services, for example, cannot be based from a residence.

In addition, vehicles weighing over 10,000 pounds may not be operated out of the home or park on the property or adjacent streets.

12. Who reviews home business licenses?

Home businesses are reviewed by:

Building
Finance
Fire
Natural Resources
Planning

13. How do I know if the type of business I want to start is allowed in my home?: Please email the Planner-On-Call or call 425-556-2494 for further information.

14. How can I apply for a home business license?: Please email the Business Licensing Office or call 425-556-2193; they will be able to assist you.

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Code Enforcement - Signs

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1. Is a permit required for all permanent signs in the City? And is there a cost involved?: Yes. A sign permit must be obtained to install a new, altered, or relocated sign. Fees are based primarily on the estimated value of the proposed sign. Any business applying for a sign permit will also need to obtain a City of Redmond business license.

2. How do I get a sign permit?: Sign permit applications are available at the Development Services Center, located on the second floor of Redmond City Hall. Applications are reviewed for size, location, and placement. If necessary, they are forwarded to the Building Division to make sure they meet the standards for safety and weight. In some cases, especially if it is for a large commercial or residential project, a sign program is sent to the City's Design Review Board for its assessment of how well it fits in with the rest of the community.

3. Is there a height restriction on signs?: Wall mounted signs must not extend beyond the building's roof. Ground mounted signs are restricted to a maximum height of ten feet. Any sign currently exceeding that height had to have been installed prior to the adoption of the current sign code. If they are altered or relocated, they will be required to meet today's standards.

4. What are the rules for political signs?: Political signs may be placed on public rights-of-way or on private property with permission of the owner. However, they must be situated in such a way so as to not impede driver vision. Political signs may not exceed six square feet in size (unless located at the candidate's headquarters) and are restricted in height to six feet. All political signs must be removed within seven days following the election.

5. Are businesses allowed to advertise with sandwich board signs?: Sandwich board signs (also known as A-boards) are allowed only when the establishment is open for business. These signs are limited to six square feet in size, may not block sidewalks, bike trails, or driveways, and should not be placed in street medians. Banners are not allowed.

6. What about real estate properties? Are they allowed to display sandwich board signs?

Yes. Real estate properties located in single family residential zones are allowed to display three six square foot sandwich boards off site - but only while a seller, agent, or person providing information is on the advertised site. When the seller or agent leaves the property, the signs must be removed.

No balloons may be attached to the signs, and no property outside Redmond is allowed to advertise within Redmond City limits.

7. How many signs are permitted for a multi-tenant building?: Tenants in a multi-tenant building are allowed a permanent wall sign advertising their place of business. Individual ground mounted entry signs are not allowed. In order to reduce the number of signs along the street, the City encourages property owners to group tenants onto a strategically placed sign. In addition, each multi-tenant complex must provide city and landlord approved guidelines for the tenants in order to provide a consistent visual appearance. Multi-tenant buildings may also display one six square foot sandwich board when the selling or rental agent is on site.

8. How many signs may I display at my construction site? Do I need to remove my signs each night?: A construction site may display two 32 square foot signs anywhere on the construction site (including the construction fencing). Because construction signs are there to alert the public that construction is taking place, construction signs may be displayed at all times through the completion of the project.

9. Does the City allow moving signs?: No. Moving signs, whether animated, revolving, rotating or waved, are not allowed. This does not include such features as the hands of a clock, barber poles, or digital changing date/weather signs.

10. What other signs are prohibited?

Any sign that resembles a traffic device/sign and may confuse pedestrians or drivers is prohibited, as well as any sign that is considered obscene under the prevailing statutes or U.S. Supreme Court rulings.

Advertising signs placed along a roadway or attached to a tree, utility, or telephone pole are not allowed, and no new billboards may be constructed within the City.

11. What does the City do with illegal signs?: The City may confiscate illegal signs that are placed on public property or rights-of-way and hold on to them for 30 calendar days. The advertiser may retrieve their sign(s) only after paying a retrieval fee and/or any associated fines. City personnel try hard to inform all business owners of the City code(s) before ever issuing a fine.

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Code Enforcement - Tree Cutting

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1. What do I do with a dead tree on my property? I'm afraid it's going to fall over on my house.

If you suspect that you have a dead, diseased, or otherwise dangerous tree on your property, most arborists suggest that it be removed before it causes damage to your property or infects any neighboring trees. If it is an imminent and dangerous threat, the tree should be removed immediately.

However, the City requires that you obtain a no-cost tree cutting permit to do so. Email the Planner on Call or call 425-556-2494, stop by the Permit Center on the second floor of City Hall, or print a Tree Removal Application (PDF).

2. Why must I get a permit if I just want to get rid of a tree in my own yard?: It's not only because of aesthetics. Tree removal without subsequent tree replacement can cause potential water runoff problems for your property and neighboring properties as well. Permits can also help to avoid accidental cutting of trees on public property.

3. How many trees can I remove?

It depends. You can remove any tree that is considered dangerous after obtaining the proper permit. If you wish to remove one or more healthy trees from your property, you should consult with a city planner.

Depending on the size of your lot, you may be able to remove between two and eight trees a year with the appropriate permit. If ten or more trees are being removed from a property, a clearing and grading permit is required.

4. What can I do about a neighbor's tree? Its leaves are falling on to my property; in fact, the whole tree is about to fall on to my property.: Washington case law has determined that in these instances, it's a civil matter between the neighbors involved. The City can step in only when it is one of our trees that has fallen onto neighboring private property. When that happens, the City will remove the fallen tree and repair any property damage that might occur.

5. How do I determine what kind of trees to replant?: In most cases, a replacement tree should conform to minimum size standards, but the choice of species is up to you and you should consider how you want this tree to enhance your landscape.

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Code Enforcement - Vehicles

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1. My neighbor has a vehicle sitting in his driveway with license tabs that expired over a year ago. Is this legal? Does the vehicle need updated tabs?: If the vehicle is parked on the street, Police can have it impounded if the tabs are over 45 days expired. If the vehicle is not disabled and is parked on private property, then the owner does not need new tabs until he/she intends to operate it on the street.

2. What about a disabled vehicle? Another neighbor has a broken down truck that has been parked in his side yard for over six months. Can he just leave it there?: No, he can't. Once a disabled vehicle is reported to the City, we give the owner 30 days to repair it, remove it, or enclose it (for example, keep it in the garage). Fines may be levied if the owner fails to comply.

3. What does the City do about abandoned vehicles?: If a vehicle appears to be abandoned on privately owned property, the City first tries to trace its owner and determine if it is operable. If an owner can be found, they are told to remove the vehicle from where it is parked. If no owner is found, the City will work with the owner of the property on which it has been left to have it removed.

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Community Events

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1. What is a Special Event?: A "special event" is defined as any activity including, but not limited to: a fair, festival, concert, demonstration, rally, performance, show, parade, run/walk/cycle, or other publicly attended activity, entertainment or celebration which is held in whole or in part upon publicly owned property, streets, sidewalks, trails, walkways or on other public rights-of-way, or if occurring on private property, will nevertheless affect, impact or interfere with the standard, ordinary and normal use of public property by the general public within the vicinity of such event and/or requires the use of city services. The Special Event Permit process enables the City of Redmond to schedule adequate services such as police escorts, traffic control, sanitation, electrical support or other needs required to ensure a safe and successful event.

2. How Much Does it Cost?

The $75.00 non-refundable application fee is due after submitting your permit application to the Parks & Recreation Department. The special event permit fees are based on the hours of use and expected attendance. Click to see the full Council approved fee schedule. Fees significantly increase if application is received less than 90 days prior to the event, so please submit early.

Depending on your event needs there may be additional costs charged by the City of Redmond, such as providing services to support the event. This would normally include services such as police escorts, traffic control, sanitation, electrical support, etc.

3. How Long Does it Take?: The City requires an application for a Special Event Permit to be submitted at least 90 days prior to the event. The application will be routed through eight City departments for approval. They may make approvals with a note, a condition to the approval, or a requirement to the approval. The permit coordinator will manage any communication needed for approvals with the applicant.

4. What are the reasons for denying a Special Event Permit?

The permit will be denied if the event:

Disrupts traffic beyond practical solutions
Interferes with access to fire stations and/or fire hydrants
Causes undue hardship to surrounding businesses or residents
Requires the diversion of public employees such that service is denied to City residents
The size and scope of the event are not suitable to the location requested and would create an unsafe environment or fail to conform to the requirements of law or established city policy
If the applicant fails to provide complete and accurate information, sufficient notice, or to comply with the terms of the permit including the remittance of all fees, insurance, and agreements

5. What can I do if I feel that my permit has been unfairly denied?: You may appeal the denial to the Director of Parks, and if still dissatisfied, to the Redmond City Council.

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COVID-19

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1. What is COVID-19?: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a virus strain that has only spread in people since December 2019. Health experts are concerned because little is known about this new virus and it has the potential to cause severe illness and pneumonia in some people.

2. How does COVID-19 spread?

Health experts are still learning the details. Currently it is thought to spread:

Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
Via respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

3. How severe is COVID-19?: Most coronavirus illnesses are mild with fever and cough. The vast majority of people with novel coronavirus infection do not require hospital care. A much smaller percentage of people get severely ill with respiratory problems like pneumonia. Elderly people and people with underlying medical conditions are at highest risk.

4. What are the symptoms?

People who have been diagnosed with novel coronavirus have reported symptoms that may appear in as few as 2 days or as long as 14 days after exposure to the virus:

Fever
Cough
Difficulty breathing

5. When do I seek medical evaluation and advice?

If you have symptoms like cough, fever, or other respiratory problems, contact your regular doctor first. Do not go to the emergency room. Emergency rooms need to be able to serve those with the most critical needs.

If you have difficulty breathing, it doesn’t mean you have novel coronavirus, but you should call 9-1-1.

If you’re over 60 and you have underlying conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and lung disease. Come up with a plan with your doctor to identify your health risks for coronavirus and how to manage symptoms. Contact your doctor right away if you do have symptoms.

6. How can I avoid contracting and spreading COVID-19?

It’s important that everyone take steps to reduce the spread of novel coronavirus, especially to protect those who are more vulnerable. Steps you can take to prevent spread of flu and the common cold will also help prevent coronavirus:

wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If not available, use hand sanitizer.
avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands
avoid contact with people who are sick
stay home while you are sick and avoid close contact with others
cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing

If you are traveling overseas, check for the latest COVID-19 Travel Alerts and follow the CDC’s Travelers’ Health guidance: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel

Currently, there are no vaccines available to prevent COVID-19 infections.

7. How is COVID-19 treated?: There are no medications specifically approved for COVID-19. Most people with mild COVID-19 illness will recover on their own by drinking plenty of fluids, resting, and taking pain and fever medications. However, some cases develop pneumonia and require medical care or hospitalization

8. Should I wear a face mask in public?: The Washington State Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now recommend that people wear cloth face coverings when they are in public settings where they cannot maintain 6 feet of distance from others such as the grocery store, pharmacy, health clinic or similar places. This is not a mandate but considered an additional layer of protection. Social distancing and proper hygiene practices are still the preferred deterrent. The CDC has created DIY cloth face covering instructions

9. What is the difference between an outbreak, an epidemic and a pandemic?: An epidemic (or outbreak) refers to an increase, often sudden, in the number of cases of a disease above what is normally expected in that population in that area. A pandemic is the worldwide spread of a new disease, usually affecting many people.

10. Where can I find additional COVID-19 resources?

The Department of Health has provided the following resources:

11. How has COVID-19 affected water quality in Redmond?

Redmond’s drinking water remains safe and protected against contaminants, including COVID-19.
The City considers drinking water service and quality monitoring essential functions that will continue to be fully operational.
The COVID-19 virus has not been detected in drinking water. The City of Redmond’s drinking water is chlorinated which is proven effective at removing/inactivating viruses.
The City continues to monitor drinking water infrastructure for security and maintaining water disinfection standards.
The water distribution system is visited daily to make sure everything is operating normally.

For more information visit:

12. Is the permitting team working while City Hall is closed?: Yes. All non-essential staff, including Redmond’s Permit Center staff, are working from home and are continuing to process permits. All permit applications are being processed remotely via permittech@redmond.gov or www.redmond.gov/REPS.

13. Is the City currently performing inspections?: Yes. City inspections are considered an essential function. Building, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire inspections are all operational. Please continue to schedule your inspection via www.redmond.gov/REPS or by phone at 425-556-2435.

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COVID-19 - Utility Billing

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1. Do I still need to pay my utility bill?: Yes, customers should still pay their utility bills during the COVID-19 pandemic. The City encourages everyone to pay their bills online, by phone, by mail, or use the utility drop box located outside City Hall on the traffic island. You may also email us at utilitybilling@redmond.gov or call us at 425-556-2152.

2. When will the City resume late fees, interest, and shut-offs?: In accordance with the final extension of Proclamation 20-23, pertaining to Utility Ratepayer Assistance and Preservation of Essential Services, the Governor’s moratorium on late fees, interest, and shut-offs expired September 30, 2021. Effective January 1, 2022, the City returned to its original past-due and disconnection policy for any unpaid delinquent accounts without a payment plan. Should your service be disconnected, payment of all past-due charges and fees will be required to re-establish service. To avoid collection activity and ensure continued service, we urge you to pay your past-due balance now. If you are unable to pay your past-due balance, please contact our office to arrange a flexible payment plan.

3. Where can I find additional COVID-19 resources?

The Department of Health provides the following resource:

DOH Coronavirus (COVID-19) webpage

4. Who can I contact for bill assistance information?

You may be eligible for bill assistance through Hopelink’s Energy & Water Assistance Program. For more information, or to book an appointment with Hopelink’s Water and Energy funding, please visit www.hopelink.org/energy or call 425-658-2592.
If utility customers are experiencing an economic hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Utilities and Transportation Commission can assist with questions about bill assistance programs available in the state. The Utilities and Transportation Commission Consumer Help Line can be reached at 1-888-333-WUTC (9882) or by email at consumer@utc.wa.gov.
2-1-1 connects you to community resources statewide. 2-1-1 is a free, confidential community service and one-stop connection to local services you may need, including utility assistance. Dial the three digit number 2-1-1 on your phone, or visit wa211.org for more information.

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Curfew

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1. When does the curfew apply?

The new curfew order is effective between the hours of 8 p.m. – 5 a.m. beginning on Monday, June 1 and is in effect until Mayor Birney issues a proclamation to end it.

2. Does the curfew apply throughout the entire City of Redmond?

Yes. The Mayor’s Proclamation of Civil Emergency and Order enforcing a curfew applies to the entire city limits.

3. Why was the curfew implemented?

The Mayor enacted out of an abundance of caution because of the recent events in our region and around the country that ended in criminal activity with the anticipation that we could see similar activity in Redmond.

4. Do we expect more protests this week and through the weekend?

We are aware of a planned peaceful protest on June 2 at 4 p.m. The City supports peaceful protests and the right for people to exercise their First Amendment rights. We anticipate there may be more protests soon and are preparing in case people plan to come to our City with the sole intent of criminal activity.

5. Do we have enough officers and fire/medics in case of violence?

We have increased staffing and have mutual aid agreements with other agencies for extra Police and Fire crews to come assist our teams, if necessary.

6. I’m scheduled to work during the curfew hours. Can I still travel to go to work? Can my employees still report to work during the curfew?

Yes, it is OK to travel to and from work during the curfew. Business operations and normal non-criminal activities such as going to a gas station, taking your dog briefly outside, etc. are permitted.

7. Can I go for a walk/bike ride for exercise during the curfew?

We are asking for voluntary compliance of our community to refrain from unnecessarily being in public places during the curfew hours.

8. I live Downtown and will need to walk my dog for bathroom breaks during the curfew. Is that allowed?: Yes, it is OK to take your dog on brief walks.

9. Can I be on my porch or balcony during the curfew?

Yes, those are private property and there is no restriction on being outside on your porch or balcony.

10. What if I need to go to the hospital or urgent care clinic during the curfew?

You are allowed to seek emergency and urgent medical care during the curfew. Normal non-criminal activities are permitted during the curfew.

11. Are businesses required to close during the curfew?

The curfew does not require essential businesses to close.

12. Will police be stopping people who are driving after curfew?

No, police will not be stopping drivers solely for being driving during the curfew hours. Regular enforcement of traffic violations (speeding, DUI, reckless driving, etc.) will still be enforced.

13. How will the curfew be enforced?

The Mayor and Police Chief ask all residents and visitors to voluntarily abide by the curfew. The City does not intend to enforce the curfew, except for violations that result in public safety threats including fires, extensive property damage, and violence.

14. What happens if I don’t want to obey this curfew? Will I be arrested if I refuse to go inside? Will it be a ticket?

Police response to anyone violating the curfew will be to educate and gain voluntary compliance in the interest of public safety. A citation is the very last resort and not the goal. The order does allow a misdemeanor charge to be filed, but again, this is the least desired outcome.

15. Will police be arresting people that damage property, cause violence or loot?

Yes, criminal behavior and violence will not be tolerated.

16. Should I call 911 if I see social media information about planned rioting, looting, or violence in Redmond?

Please immediately call the Redmond Police non-emergency line at 425-556-2500 if you see or hear anything that indicates people or groups are planning violence or criminal activity in our City. Call 911 for emergencies.

17. What is a “public right-of-way”?

Public right-of-way is defined as City streets/road surfaces including curbs, sidewalks, utilities, and grass strips. Public spaces are parks, parking lots, trails, etc. Driving on roads is OK but discouraged during the curfew hours due to safety concerns.

18. Are there other exemptions from the curfew?

Per the proclamation, the general curfew shall not apply to law enforcement personnel who are actively engaged in the performance of their duties; military personnel who are actively engaged in providing assistance pursuant to the request of the Mayor; emergency personnel and other City and government personnel who are actively engaged in carrying out their duties; City and governmental officials with valid identification; or representatives of the media authorized in advance by the Mayor’s office or the Chief of the Redmond Police Department or his designee. For purposes of this Order, the phrase “actively engaged in performing or carrying out their duties” includes traveling to and from the location of those duties to begin or end a work shift.

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Drinking Water

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1. What’s in my water? Is it safe to drink?: Redmond’s drinking water meets or exceeds all federal, state and local health standards. Our water is tested daily throughout the City to assure safety.

But, there is much more to good drinking water than simple H2O. As the universal solvent, water dissolves and takes on traces of whatever it comes in contact with, for example, minerals. There is no such thing as pure water in nature; and if there were, it wouldn’t taste very good!

2. Is there fluoride in my water?: Yes. A small amount occurs naturally and a little more is added to achieve the optimum level of 0.7-0.8 ppm (part per million).

3. Do I need a water filter in my home?: For reasons of safety, no. American municipal drinking water is the safest in the world. Some people, however, object to the taste of chlorine in their water. In that case, a well maintained NSF approved charcoal filter can help.

4. Why is there chlorine in the water?: Chlorine is a disinfectant that acts as 'health insurance' against the possible occurrence of disease-causing organisms called pathogens. If this type of contaminant were present in the water, chlorine would kill it. Chlorine dosages in Redmond's drinking water are very low, usually between 0.2 ppm and 1.2 ppm.

5. Where does my water come from?: Residents within City Limits who live on the east side of the Sammamish River drink mostly well water pumped from aquifers, also referred to as “groundwater”.

Residents within City Limits who live on the west side of the Sammamish River drink water from Seattle’s Tolt Reservoir, over 20 miles away in the Cascade Mountains east of Duvall. This supply is also referred to as “surface water”.

Residents in the un-incorporated area of Redmond Ridge and Trilogy receive their water from the Tolt Reservoir as well.

6. Do I have hard or soft water?: People on the groundwater system have medium-hard water, about 90 mg/l (milligrams per liter) as CaCO3 (calcium carbonate), or about 6 grains per gallon. Hardness in water comes from minerals like calcium and magnesium.

Tolt Reservoir water is very soft; about 20 mg/l as CaCO3 or 1.2 grains per gallon. Soap easily lathers with soft water; hard water is “harder” to lather.

7. Why does my water sometimes have an odd taste and other times it doesn’t?: One reason might be that when water sits in pipes overnight or for a few days it will warm to room temperature. After sitting for a period of time, the chlorine in the water reacts to the interior pipe material. The water might taste musty, stale or like medicine.

Another common reason is leaving your garden hose turned on and under pressure. If you do this for too long, you’ll soon be tasting garden hose at your kitchen tap!

To make the water taste fresh again, flush your cold water tap until it starts to get colder, usually about 1 minute. Now you have fresh cold water from the water main.

If your water continues to taste odd, call us.

8. Is there PFAS in my water?: Redmond supplies drinking water to customers from five City supply wells and from Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) Tolt River Watershed. The City supply wells pump groundwater, which is water stored underground in the pores between the sand and gravel that are under Redmond. Although PFAS are not regulated contaminants, and routine testing is not required, the cities of Redmond and Seattle tested their water sources in 2015 and found no detection of PFAS. The City of Seattle conducted additional testing in 2018 and again found no detection of PFAS in the Tolt River Watershed supplies. Redmond conducted additional testing in 2020 and found trace amounts of PFAS in one water supply well. This well has been taken out of production and no longer supplies drinking water to residents. The City will re-sample all the drinking wells in November 2023 for PFAS following the latest sampling protocols

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Emergency Management

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1. What should I include in an emergency kit?: TakeWinterByStorm.org includes a number of emergency preparedness supply checklists. Start with a good list and customize it to meet your needs. In addition to the basics, like food, water, flashlight, and radio, remember to include items specific to you and your family, such as prescription medication, eye glasses, toys, and pet supplies.

2. Where should I keep emergency supplies?: Create an emergency kit for each location where you spend a lot of your time, because you never know when disaster will strike. For many people, that includes home, work or school, and car. A backpack is often a good storage option for a few basic supplies, so that you can keep them with you if you need to leave. Home kits tend to be the largest because there's more storage room.

3. What county, state, and federal resources are available to help me prepare for a disaster?

King County Emergency Management

Washington State Emergency Management

Ready.gov

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Facility Rentals

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1. What months of the year can I rent a picnic shelter?: City of Redmond picnic shelters are available to rent from April to September each year.

2. How do I reserve a picnic shelter?: Picnic shelters can be reserved online: Click here to rent a picnic shelter online. Opens a New Window. Picnic Shelters Picnic Shelters.

3. Which Redmond parks have picnic shelters to rent?

Our picnic shelters are available to rent at:

Anderson Park Opens a New Window. (maximum occupancy 50)
Farrel-McWhirter Park Opens a New Window. (maximum occupancy 35)
Grass Lawn Park Opens a New Window. (maximum occupancy 75)
Idylwood Park Opens a New Window. (maximum occupancy 50)
Perrigo Park Opens a New Window. (maximum occupancy 75)

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Fire

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1. What is The Compliance Engine (TCE)?

The Compliance Engine (TCE) is a simple, web-based service used to track the servicing of fire protection systems to drive code compliance, reduce false alarm activity, and provide a safer community. Redmond Fire Prevention began using this system in 2017 as a method of tracking the performance of required inspections for all fire protection systems (such as Fire Alarm, Hood Suppression, Sprinkler, Private Fire Hydrant, Spray booth, etc.).

This service sends renewal, deficient, and overdue notices automatically to your business contact or responsible party. After the contractor completes their routine fire protection inspections, they must submit all reports to TCE. Your business will be out of compliance until the fire protection contractor submits the report in TCE. Also, the contractor is responsible for submitting any repair reports that they have completed. If a routine inspection was conducted or a repair was made and you are still receiving these notices, please contact your fire protection contractor to make sure they have submitted the information to TCE in a timely manner. If you have further questions regarding TCE or notices that you are receiving, please contact the systems reliability program coordinator. To register for a TCE account, please visit the TCE website at www.thecomplianceengine.com.

2. How do I register for a TCE account?

Please be advised that as of January 1, 2017, Redmond Fire, along with several other jurisdictions in the metro Seattle area, have begun to use a new system, The Compliance Engine (http://www.thecomplianceengine.com), for receiving our confidence test reports. All confidence test reports are required to be submitted through this system.

To submit the report, you will need to register an account with the system. To do so, please click the Register link at the top of The Compliance Engine’s website. From there, follow the prompts for account creation. Please note that the information being asked for during the registration process is for a designated company administrator; you will be given the opportunity to set up additional users after the administrator’s account has been created. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office for additional assistance!

3. What does The Compliance Engine cost?

The Compliance Engine charges the contractor $10 per report, per site. For example, a warehouse with one sprinkler system ($10 report submission fee), one fire alarm system* ($10 report submission fee), and one hood suppression system ($10 report submission fee) pays a total of $30 in report submission fees. If your contractor uploads the report 15 days after the inspection, there will be a $10.00 late fee. If your contractor uploads the report 31 or more days after the inspection, there will be a $20.00 late fee.

*Fire alarm systems require an annual fire alarm operational permit, which is $100/per year.

4. How can a contractor submit their report to TCE?: Inspection reports can only be submitted by contractors registered with TCE. The following link provides access to TCE Training: TCE Training Link. On this site, you can request online training, or alternatively, reach The Compliance Engine directly by calling 630-413-9511 or support@mybrycer.com.

5. Can a business owner upload inspection reports to The Compliance Engine?: Unfortunately, business owners cannot submit inspection reports to TCE. In order to maintain the integrity of the system, it is necessary that only contractors submit inspection reports to TCE. Please note that contractors are required to also provide inspection reports to property owners, in addition to uploading the report to TCE.

6. Why do I receive automatic notices?: In an effort to stay proactive, The Compliance Engine automatically sends out renewal, deficient, and overdue notices to keep business owners or property managers informed of the status of their fire protection systems. These automated notices are a requirement from Redmond Fire Prevention, as we want all responsible parties informed when actions are required on their respective fire and life safety systems. If you would like to be added or taken off a property address, please e-mail firesystems@redmond.gov. TCE retains records under property addresses and property business names. If you have several properties that you manage or are no longer responsible for within the City of Redmond, please report said properties via e-mail so that we can update our records.

7. Can I e-mail, fax, or mail the confidence test reports to Redmond Fire?: Confidence test reports can no longer be submitted directly to the Redmond Fire Department. Confidence Test reports are required to be uploaded to The Compliance Engine website by the contractor that performed the service.

8. Why is my report still listed as "open"?: A report in an “Open” status means it has not been fully submitted and is not visible to Redmond Fire Prevention. Your contractor will need to access their "Open/Rejected Reports" and click on the RN number. Then the contractor will need to select “Submit to AHJ”. There is an overnight billing process that will delay the status from changing from the “Open” status. If the status still remains open, then it is likely that Redmond Fire Prevention rejected the report or the contractor’s form of payment was declined. Either way, the report will need to be reviewed and submitted by your contractor.

9. Do I have to use the same contractor to make repairs?

The contractor that performed the inspection, testing, or maintenance may observe issues and list them as deficiencies on your inspection report. This will result in a deficiency notice being sent to the responsible party and Redmond Fire Prevention. Contact the contractor directly regarding deficiencies. It is acceptable for the repairs to be completed by a different contractor from the one that performed the initial inspection.* After the deficiencies are corrected, a “deficiency repair” report needs to be uploaded to TCE by the contractor that corrected the deficiency.

*Fire alarm repairs require a letter of authorization from the prime contractor listed on the fire alarm operational permit to perform any work on the fire alarm system.

10. Can I have an extension to repair deficiencies?: An extension is dependent on the severity of the deficiency. Any deficiencies that impact the operation or activation of a fire protection system need to be corrected as soon as possible. A fire violation penalty may be issued by Redmond Fire Prevention if the deficiency is not addressed in a timely manner. Any extensions do need to be reviewed and approved by Fire Prevention staff.

11. I am a building owner or property manager. How do I access my reports?: Please e-mail firesystems@redmond.gov to obtain a secure access code. This access code will allow you to log onto The Compliance Engine website and view any fire reports associated with your premise.

12. What is the penalty for non-compliance?: Redmond Fire will issue fire violation fees until the reports or deficiencies have been addressed. The fees will increase in cost if not addressed in a timely manner, starting at $100 and increasing to $250 dollars with each inspection notice.

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Health Through Housing

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1. Who purchased the Redmond Silver Cloud Inn for a Health Through Housing facility?: King County purchased and now owns the Silver Cloud Inn with the intent of establishing a HTH facility. The City of Redmond did not purchase this building.

2. Did the County require approval from the City to purchase and locate a HTH facility in Redmond?: No. King County’s purchase of the Silver Cloud Inn was a private real estate transaction and did not require the City’s approval. King County consulted with the Mayor and city staff regarding its intention to purchase the Silver Cloud Inn consistent with the terms of the state enabling legislation (House Bill 1070). Housing is an allowed use in this location, and the City is supportive of regional solutions to housing for all. The County will be required to obtain a building permit to change the occupancy of the Silver Cloud Inn from a hotel use to the HTH use.

3. What is the intended use of the Silver Cloud Inn building?: As a HTH facility, this location will provide emergency housing and permanent supportive housing units for people experiencing chronic homelessness. This will not be an overnight shelter but will be full-time housing. This will not be a safe injection site or a rehabilitation center.

4. What is the City’s role in HTH?: The City recognizes that homelessness is a regional crisis that cannot be addressed by a single city on their own. Therefore, Redmond is one of many cities in the region supporting King County as a partner in a regional solution. Redmond’s role will include processing permits and providing public safety just as the City does throughout Redmond. In addition, the City will participate in the evaluation and selection of the operation and service providers, and referral of residents through our Homelessness Outreach Program. The City will advocate for our community so that this program can be effective for those experiencing homelessness while maintaining public safety, economic stability, and allowing everyone in our community to thrive.

5. Does the Redmond Zoning Code (RZC) allow for this use of long-term or transitional housing in this location?: Yes. The RZC permits the shelter/housing use at the Silver Cloud Inn location. The zoning is Overlake OV-1 (RZC 21.12.040), which permits Health and Human Services uses outright. These uses are a subset of Education, Public Administration, Health Care. and Other Institutions consisting of Ambulatory or Outpatient Services; Nursing, Supervision, and Other Rehabilitation Services; Social Assistance, Welfare, and Charitable Services; Day Care Centers; and Family Day Care Providers. Social Assistance, Welfare, and Charitable Services is defined in the RZC as the provision of social assistance services, including shelters, directly to individuals in need.

6. When did the City learn about the County’s desire to locate a HTH facility in Redmond?: In spring 2021, King County informed the City that they were actively exploring locations in Redmond and in late May 2021, Redmond was made aware of the County’s intent to purchase the Silver Cloud Inn. As this was a private real estate transaction, it was kept confidential, as requested. Redmond first became aware of this potential type of program early in the 2020 legislative session. The City has continued to follow this since the State Legislature passed House Bill 1590 in 2020, which allowed jurisdictions to enact a 0.1% sales tax to finance construction of affordable housing and behavioral health facilities and operations or services supportive of affordable housing residents. In 2020, Executive Constantine proposed, and the County Council approved, this dedicated sales tax. In 2021, the State Legislature passed House Bill 1070, which clarified acquisition of property as an eligible use of these funds.

7. Why doesn’t the City stop this project?: The HTH use is a legal use in Redmond and fulfills a need for housing for all. During the last legislative session, a new law (House Bill 1220) was passed by the state legislature and signed by Governor Inslee which preempts the City’s authority to prohibit transitional housing or permanent supportive housing in any zones where residential dwelling units or hotels are allowed. This article helps explain House Bill 1220 and its impact on communities - MRSC - Changing Your Zoning Code to Accommodate Housing and Shelters for the Homeless. As a result, the City is playing a supporting rather than a lead role in the program rollout. The City of Redmond values being a welcoming community that is committed to promoting a variety of housing choices for all and meeting the housing needs of people who require supportive services, including those experiencing homelessness. The City’s commitment to supportive community services can be reviewed on the Redmond THRIVE webpage at www.redmond.gov/Thrive. In addition, the City has recently completed a comprehensive Housing Action Plan, available here, which outlines the need for housing for all income levels. Individuals experiencing homelessness live among us now, in bushes and cars throughout our community. Redmond is committed to progressively meeting the humanitarian crisis that faces us in partnership with King County.

8. : Did the City recruit the County to locate a HTH facility in Redmond?: No, the City did not seek out a HTH facility in Redmond.

9. When did the Mayor’s Office make City Council aware of this program in Redmond?: City Council was made aware of the new legislation supporting this type of program through a variety of 2020 and 2021 legislative updates by the City’s lobbyist. Mayor Birney called each of Redmond’s seven City Council members on Tuesday, July 6, to notify them of the County’s purchase and intended use of the Silver Cloud Inn in Redmond.

10. Are there homeless people in Redmond?: Yes, there are homeless people in Redmond. It is hard to quantify how many homeless individuals are from Redmond because some may be accessing services and shelter throughout King County. One source of data is the King County Point-in-Time (PIT) Count which is conducted annually and includes information on the number of sheltered and unsheltered homeless individuals by subregion. The most recent count was conducted in 2020. At that time, there were 586 individuals residing in emergency shelters in East King County, which is the subregion where Redmond is located. This represents 9% of King County’s sheltered homeless population. There were 446 unsheltered homeless individuals in East King County, which represents 8% of the King County total. Regional data for individuals who have a serious mental illness and/or substance use disorder is on page 98 of the PIT report. The City of Redmond’s homeless outreach administrator serves an average of 180 homeless or unstably housed individuals each year. Current clients with direct ties to Redmond area (employment, family, services, supports, etc.) equals 64.

11. Why did the City not require community outreach?: Neither the purchase of this property nor the permit application requires community outreach. Mayor Birney did request that the County voluntarily conduct outreach to the neighboring businesses (completed business outreach on 7/7/21 and a virtual business meeting on 7/9/21), to contact major city partners (completed on 7/7/21), and to hold a community meeting (held on 8/2/21) to provide more details on the project to the community.

12. Will the City be involved in choosing and monitoring an operator for the facility?: Yes. The City will participate in the evaluation and selection of the facility operators.

13. How will the City ensure safety for the community?: The City will provide the same public safety to this neighborhood, building, and residents as it provides to the entire community. People are encouraged to call 911 or the non-emergency public safety number at 425-556-2500 should they see something unsafe.

14. Will the City forbid use of drugs and alcohol at the HTH facility?: The City will provide the same policing and uphold the same safety protocols regarding drugs and alcohol as is provided throughout the community. HTH residents will be considered tenants under Washington State landlord/tenant law and as such will have specific rights with regards to their leased space, which are consistent with the rights all tenants have throughout the city. King County will provide a code of conduct that residents must agree upon to remain housed at the facility.

15. Will there be a community meeting?: King County and the City jointly hosted a virtual community meeting on Monday, August 2, from 5 – 6:30 p.m. Presenters shared information and answered questions about the County’s purchase of the Silver Cloud Inn, though due to the large number of questions received, not all were able to be answered. The meeting is available to view here. This City FAQ and the County’s HTH FAQ answer a representation of the types of questions received at the meeting.

16. Will the City consider making it illegal to camp or sleep outside in public spaces?: The City passed ordinance 2911 in 2018 which prohibits camping and storage of personal property in parks, public spaces, and on publicly-owned property when overnight shelter space available.

17. What is an interim official control that the Redmond City Council adopted on August 17, 2021?: : An interim official control puts temporary regulations in place in response to an emergent situation.

18. How does the interim official control change the process that existed when the County purchased the Silver Cloud property under the HB 1220 legislation?

a. Under the code in effect when the Silver Cloud was purchased, the use proposed by the County was permitted outright in the OV-1 zone where the hotel is located. The County would have been required only to apply for an administrative modification under RZC 21.76.090.D and a building change of use permit under the International Building Code.

b. Under the interim official control, the City takes advantage of the authority granted under state law to require owners and operators of permanent supportive housing, transitional housing, emergency housing, and emergency shelters to enter into an occupancy agreement that describes the maximum occupancy, the owner and operator contact information, staff training, staff to client ratios, roles and responsibilities of staff, program rules and code of conduct, a safety and security plan, description of the eligibility and referral process for residency, and a parking management plan. The interim official control memorializes the County and City commitment to work collaboratively to adopt an operating agreement that will support the successful deployment of a permanent supportive housing use at the prior location of the Silver Cloud in Overlake. In addition to the new requirement for an occupancy agreement, the County will still be required to apply for an administrative modification under RZC 21.76.090.D and a building change of use permit under the International Building Code

19. Will the City Council hold a public hearing regarding the interim official control?: Yes, under RCW 36.70A.390, the City Council is required to hold a public hearing within 60 days of the adoption of the interim official control at which time they will affirm or amend the findings of fact that support the original adoption. During its consideration of the interim official control on August 17, the Redmond City Council set the required public hearing for October 5, 2021. The Planning Commission will be working to develop permanent regulations and will hold a public hearing before transmitting its recommendation to the City Council for adoption of permanent regulations in Q1 2022. The Planning Commission work plan schedule will be posted on the City website when it is available.

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Intersection Visibility (formerly, Sight Triangle)

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1. How do I determine the Intersection Visibility (formerly, Sight Triangle) on my property?: The City has marked the corners with yellow or white paint to help you identify the area to clear. Stand at the farthest painted marker from the intersection and look at the 20’ mark to define your first intersection visibility area. Repeat on the other side of the corner for the second intersection visibility area. Watch the video on our website (www.redmond.gov/intersection-visibility) for additional instructions.

2. Do large trees or fences have to be removed?: No, large trees should not be removed. They can remain, but please trim their branches to a height of 8 feet. Other objects that obstruct visibility such as fences, hedges, and large shrubs need to be removed. Objects 18 inches or less in width or diameter are allowed in the intersection visibility area when spaced at an adequate distance to not significantly obstruct the intersection visibility area.

3. Will the city cover the cost of this work?: The Redmond Zoning Code requires all property owners to keep intersection visibility areas clear of obstructions on their property and out to the adjacent street curb. If your intersection visibility area is not clear of obstructions, it is your responsibility to resolve the problem at your own expense.

4. Why am I being notified now?: The requirement to keep intersection visibility areas clear has been in City code since 1982 or earlier. City Staff enforces the intersection visibility area for all new development in the city and responds to existing problems only when complaints are received for a particular location.

5. Can I install a convex mirror instead of removing the visual obstruction?: Although mirrors can help with visibility around corners they are not a suitable alternative to clearing the sight triangle. Obstructions must still be removed.

6. Why wasn't this issue addressed when the home was developed?: The city inspects new homes when they are first built. However, the developer or contractor is ultimately responsible to meet the applicable codes and standards. Vegetation may have grown since the home was inspected or other obstructions such as fences could have been added at a later date. Unless a special permit was acquired for an intersection visibility obstruction (such as a garage) the obstruction is still subject to code. The City, through the Municipal Code, has the authority to enforce adherence to any codes and standards regardless of the prior inspection.

7. Is there an appeals process?: The flyer or letter you received is to alert you of your intersection visibility obstruction and of your responsibility to keep this area clear as stated in the Redmond Zoning Code and is not subject to appeal. If it becomes necessary to serve you with a formal code enforcement order, then this order would be subject to appeal to the City Hearings Examiner. However, please be aware that this appeal would only be to decide if your intersection visibility area is obscured and not to determine if the code requirement is valid.

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Low Impact Development

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1. What is a rain garden?

A rain garden is a shallow depression planted with a variety of flowers, shrubs, and grasses that "don't mind getting their feet wet." Rain gardens help soak up rainwater from streets, downspouts, driveways, and sidewalks, while protecting local waterways. When planted with the right types of plants, rain gardens also attract birds, butterflies, and bees.

When rain gardens are located in a critical drinking water aquifer recharge area, these gardens are lined and an underdrain collects the treated stormwater and sends it to the City's stormwater pipe system in adjacent streets.

2. How do rain gardens work?: Stormwater flowing along the curb flows through a 'curb cut' into the depressed area of the rain garden. The stormwater runoff is filtered by the soil and plants. In most storm events, this water soaks into the ground. In larger events the water pools until it eventually overflows back to the gutter.

3. What is permeable asphalt?

A typical permeable pavement has an open-graded surface over an underlying stone recharge bed. The water drains through the permeable asphalt and into the stone bed, then, slowly, infiltrates into the soil. If contaminants were on the surface at the time of the storm, they are swept along with the rainfall through the stone bed. From there they infiltrate into the sub-base so that they are subjected to natural processes that cleanse water.

Permeable asphalt offers a powerful tool in the toolbox for stormwater management. In the natural environment, rainfall sinks into soil, filters through it, and eventually finds its way to streams, ponds, lakes, and underground aquifers. The built environment, by way of contrast, seals the surface. Rainwater and snowmelt become runoff which may contribute to flooding. Contaminants are washed from surfaces directly into waterways without undergoing the filtration that nature intended.

4. What is compost amended soil?: Amending a soil with compost increases the soil's permeability and water holding capacity, thereby delaying and often reducing the peak stormwater run-off flow rate, and decreasing irrigation water requirements. Amending soils will also enhance the lawn's long-term aesthetics while reducing fertilizer and pesticide requirements.

5. What is a green roof?: A green roof is a roofing system that uses vegetation to absorb rain water and reduce heat reflection.

6. What is tree preservation?

Tree preservation, quite simply, is protecting trees from damage or removal during construction. Tree preservation involves careful site planning to avoid compaction of soil around tree roots that may extend well away from the trunk of a tree.

Trees have a great deal of financial value, from increased property values to various environmental benefits. Trees stabilize the soil and control water pollution, yield advantageous microclimatic effects which conserve energy, preserve and foster air quality by removing carbon dioxide (C02) and airborne pollutants, abate visual and noise pollution, and provide a natural habitat for wildlife. They also provide welcome shade to people and add color and interest to the urban landscape. Trees provide a psychological boost to urbanites. People are generally more satisfied with their neighborhoods if there are trees. Workers are more productive and hospital patients recover faster if they can see trees outside their windows. The benefits of established trees in our communities are subtle and often overlooked.

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Parking

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1. Where can I park in Downtown Redmond?

Free time limited on-street parking is available Monday through Friday, 9:00am to 5:00pm, excluding weekends and holidays. Downtown Redmond Parking Map available at Redmond.gov/Parking.
Monthly unlimited on-street parking permits for parking in designated “Extended by Permit” parking areas are available for purchase, email Diamond Parking at monthly@diamondparking.com or call 1.800.828.4197 or 425.556.2433 choose option 1.
On-site with your employer, residence or business you are visiting
Redmond Central Connector Public Parking Lot located at 7541 Leary Way
Disabled, motorcycle or scooter parking available in all areas for unlimited use, excluding loading and no parking zones

2. I live in Downtown Redmond. Where can my visitors park?: Visitors to Downtown Redmond may park on-street for the specified signed time limit (1, 2 or 3 hour) 9:00am to 5:00pm, Monday through Friday. On-street parking is unlimited before 9:00am and after 5:00pm weekdays, throughout weekends and holidays. In addition to on-street parking, we suggest speaking with your building management about use of visitor parking.

3. How long can I park on the street in Downtown Redmond?

Parking is available for specified signed time limits (1, 2 or 3 hour), with some exceptions including 15-minute load/unload as signed. Restrictions are in effect 9:00am to 5:00pm, Monday through Friday, excluding weekends and holidays.

Several types of loading and unloading activities, including loading or unloading from private vehicles (such as personal or company cars or trucks), and loading or unloading from commercial delivery/moving vehicles is excluded from the parking enforcement ordinance when the vehicle is clearly identified for that use.

4. What happens if I park too long?: Parking time limits are actively enforced by Redmond’s contracted parking enforcement agency. Violations are issued to vehicles exceeding the posted maximum parking time. Parking violations are $29, payable to the King County District Court at Citations or Tickets | King County District Court

5. Can I move my car after the signed time limit to avoid a ticket?: Yes, to a street with a different name than the street the vehicle was originally parked on. No person may re-park a vehicle on either side of the same street to extend the vehicle’s parking time beyond the time limits established. A vehicle shall be deemed to be re-parked and in violation despite any movement of the vehicle unless the vehicle is moved to a street with a different street name than the street the vehicle was originally parked on.

6. On-Street Towing: Contact Police at police@redmond.gov or call 425-556-2500 for towed vehicles.

7. Why does the City of Redmond have time-limited parking?: Time-limited parking creates parking space turnover and creates customer access to Downtown businesses. There are approximately 800 parking spaces in the Downtown enforcement area, and far more customers, residents, and businesses competing for the finite amount of spaces.

8. Can I park at the Transit Center Park-and-Ride if I’m not taking transit?: No, the Transit Center Park-and-Ride structure is for transit riders, carpoolers, and vanpoolers only. Enforcement by King County Metro is posted at the facility. For Park-and-Ride questions please contact King County Metro at 206-553-3000.

9. How do I purchase an on-street parking permit?

Parking permits are available for monthly purchase by emailing Diamond Parking at monthly@diamondparking.com or call 1.800.828.4197 or 425.556.2433 choose option 1. A permit is $50 per month, credit/debit cards accepted. Monthly permits are delivered via mail.

A limited number of monthly paid parking permits, allowing all-day parking in designated extended by permit zones, are available for sale on a monthly. Monthly permits must be visible and displayed from the rear-view mirror. Any other placement will result in a ticket.

NOTE: All vehicles including monthly on-street parking permit holders are required to move their vehicle every 24 hours, or they are subject to ticketing and towing per Redmond Municipal Code 10.52.110 and 10.04.070.

10. My employer does not provide parking. What are my options?: Visit www.GoRedmond.com for alternative commuting assistance and incentives.

11. I have a disability and am not able to walk far distances. Where should I park?: Disabled parking, with a valid disabled parking permit, is available on street for unlimited use except for designated loading and no parking zones. If you are visiting a Downtown business, disabled parking should also be available there. To obtain a disabled parking permit please visit http://www.dol.wa.gov/vehicleregistration/parking.html or contact 360.902.3770.

12. There are unauthorized people parking in my parking lot. What do I do about that?: Business owners/managers are encouraged to monitor and enforce their on-site parking.

13. Can I park at City Hall?: City Hall Campus parking is available for visitors of City Hall, Redmond Senior Center or the Public Safety Building only. City Hall Campus parking is monitored and enforced.

14. Are there public parking lots available?: Yes, the Redmond Central Connecter Public Parking lot located at 7541 Leary Way NE at the corner to Bear Creek Parkway and Leary Way (entrance on Bear Creek Parkway), 0-2 hours free, or $1 for each additional hour effective 2/1/2021. Mobile payment options using Pay by Phone or Call to Park app. See Downtown Redmond Parking Map for other available lots in Downtown.

15. Who do I contact if I have questions or concerns about parking?

For more City of Redmond Downtown on-street parking information please contact 425-556-2433 or email parking@redmond.gov.

For Park and Ride questions please contact King Country Metro at 206-553-3000.

For questions or help at the Redmond Central Connector Public Parking lot please contact Diamond Parking at 425-462-4208 location WG016.

For disabled parking permits contact the Washington State Department of Licensing at 360-902-3770.

For King County District Court questions please contact 206-205-9200.

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Pickleball FAQs

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1. How do I give input on amenities or changes that I want to see at different parks?: The City of Redmond is currently updating the Parks, Arts, Recreation, Culture, and Conservation (PARCC) Plan, which is used to determine future facilities, programs, activities, events, etc. It serves as both a strategic and functional plan that helps guide resources to manage and enhance our parks, playgrounds, community centers, courts, forests, and trails. Any change to existing park amenities will need to be vetted by city leadership, staff, stakeholders, community members, the Parks and Trails Commission, and City Council. To give your input (i.e. installation of a practice wall at Perrigo Park, conversion of courts, etc.) please Share Your Ideas for the future of pickleball in Redmond. Your feedback will help make sure parks and recreation amenities meet the needs of our growing and diverse community.

2. Will the basketball courts at Perrigo Park be converted to Pickleball?: Any change to existing park amenities will need to be vetted by city leadership, staff, stakeholders, community members, the Parks and Trails Commission, and City Council. A decision to convert the basketball courts to another use has not been vetted at this time.

3. Will the tennis lines be removed from Court #3 at Perrigo Park?: Any change to existing park amenities will need to be vetted by city leadership, staff, stakeholders, community members, the Parks and Trails Commission, and City Council. A decision to alter/change tennis lines from court #3 at Perrigo Park has not been vetted at this time.

4. Will Reservoir Park get converted to Pickleball?: A budget request has been submitted for the 2023-2024 budget. This project, if funded, would renovate the court surface, and restripe for both pickleball and tennis. The 2023-2024 budget is scheduled to be adopted in Dec. 2022. If funded, a project timeline will be determined and shared in 2023.

5. Will Meadow Park courts get redone, and when will a bathroom be added?: Meadow Park is a neighborhood park and in general neighborhood parks do not have restrooms or parking. However, a budget request has been submitted for the 2023-2024 budget that if funded, would renovate the court surface, and restripe for pickleball. The 2023-2024 budget is scheduled to be adopted in Dec. 2022. If funded, a project timeline will be determined and shared in 2023.

6. Will a bathroom be added at Westside Park?: There are no plans to add a restroom at Westside Park. The park is a neighborhood park and, in general, neighborhood parks do not have restrooms or parking.

7. Will there be dedicated/reserved time for Senior pickleball play at Perrigo Park?: Currently, the Perrigo Park pickleball courts operate on a first-come, first-serve basis except when programs are scheduled by parks and recreation staff. Seniors (Ages 50+) have the option to purchase an Indoor Pickleball Pass to play at the Old Redmond Schoolhouse, which takes place Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

8. What will happen this winter with the pickleball nets at Perrigo Park?: The nets at Court #3 at Perrigo Park will remain on site throughout winter and will be reassessed in Spring 2023.

9. Who should we contact to talk about the future of Pickleball in Redmond?: The City of Redmond is currently updating the Parks, Arts, Recreation, Culture, and Conservation (PARCC) Plan, which is used to determine future facilities, programs, activities, events, etc. It serves as both a strategic and functional plan that helps guide resources to manage and enhance our parks, playgrounds, community centers, courts, forests, and trails. To give your input (i.e. installation of a practice wall at Perrigo Park, conversation of courts, etc.) please Share Your Ideas for the future of pickleball in Redmond. There will also be a public meeting on October 5. To report an issue or ask a specific question, please reach out to our Customer Experience Team via e-mail or by calling 425-556-2300, and they will assist you with your question or direct it to the appropriate staff member for follow-up.

10. Can I modify courts such as laying down my own tape or add temporary markings to line a court, or build a practice wall for pickleball in public parks?: No. Modifications or markings of any kind (tape or chalk, etc) will result in the need for more frequent closures for court cleaning and could impact court availability for public use. Temporary structures are not allowed. Temporary structures that are found will be removed immediately, as they can cause a public safety hazard and/or could impact other user groups.

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Planning - Building Permits

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1. What codes are adopted by the City of Redmond?: View the comprehensive list of Codes and Standards adopted by the City of Redmond.

2. What type of work is exempt from a permit?: View the Work Exempt From Permit sheet to verify scope of work that is exempt from permit.

3. All I am doing is constructing or removing a wall, do I need a permit?: Yes, minor remodeling projects such as this are considered to be alterations and therefore a permit is required.

4. Do I need a permit to build a deck?: Yes, a permit is required for construction or alteration of decks attached to a structure, over 200 S.F., or more than 30 inches above grade. A permit is not required for detached decks, not over 200 SF and under 30 inches in height.

5. When do I need a Demolition Permit?: A Demolition permit is required for the destruction of an entire structure, including the foundation.

6. Is a permit required for a detached storage/play shed?: Yes, if the structure is more than one story or has a floor area larger than 200 S.F. and is accessory to a commercial or residential building.

7. Do I need a permit to construct a fence?: A permit is required for construction of a fence if over 7 feet in height. Property lines shall be adhered to when constructing a fence.

8. What are the construction hours in the City of Redmond?: Construction is allowed between 7 am and 10 pm seven days per week, as long as the construction noise does not impact residential zones. Please refer to the Redmond Municipal Code Chapter 6.36 Noise Standards, for complete information.
Construction noise that impacts residential zones has the following restricted hours:
Monday through Friday: 7 am to 7 pm
Saturday: 9 am to 6 pm
Sunday or Legal Holidays: Prohibited

9. What do I need to know when hiring a contractor?: If you intend to hire a contractor or remodeler, please "Shop Smart" and review the information on this web site from the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.

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Planning - Development Engineering

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1. When is a Coordinated Civil Review Process Required?: A Civil Construction Review shall be required for all proposals that require construction or modification of streets, sidewalks, storm drainage, utilities, or any other surface or subsurface improvements that may be required.

2. When do I need a Clearing and Grading Permit?: A Clearing and Grading permit for clearing, grading and/or stormwater management activities that exceed any of the following thresholds: Clearing of 7,000 square feet of land area or more, earthwork of 50 cubic yards or more, removal of 11 or more significant trees, any clearing or grading within a critical area or buffer of a critical area, any change in existing grade by four feet or more, any work within a public easement, City-owned tract or City right-of-way, add 2,000 square feet of impervious area or more, any construction of drainage facilities to be owned by the City, any construction of private storm pipes of 12-inch diameter or larger.

3. How do I request a deviation?: Deviation requests are required for any proposed improvements that do not meet City standards. The request should be in writing and include the design standard, a description of the proposed deviation, and the reason the City should consider granting a deviation. The City’s Technical Committee (consisting of the Planning Director, Public Works Director, and others) makes the decision to grant a design deviation.

4. How long is the Coordinated Civil Review Process?: Review of final construction plans begins after Land Use approval conditions are issued. Each City review cycle is 28 days. If the plan set submitted is complete and addresses all conditions of approval, and any comments are addressed in a timely manner plans can typically be approved for construction in approximately 4 months. Time may be shorter for a very simple project, or longer if there are significant issues to be resolved, or delays in resubmittal of the plans or extensive review comments due to plan submittals that are incomplete or not in compliance with City codes and design requirements.

5. What determines the actual meter size for fire supply?: The required size for a dual purpose (domestic and fire sprinkler) meter is dependent upon evaluation of both the fire sprinkler system and the domestic supply demand. The Redmond Fire Department provides the oversight and review of residential fire sprinkler systems. A licensed fire sprinkler designer must design the system to meet the water demand for its required fire sprinkler system.

6. How do I modify my water service?: A charge shall be paid by all persons requesting a modification to their water service including adjustments of height, relocation, abandonment or other modifications. The charge shall be set by the City Engineer or designated representative in an amount to cover the City’s full cost for constructing such modification.

7. What types of Hydrant Use permits are there?

Type "A" permits allow a one-inch or smaller connection to the hydrant for short-term construction, demolition or landscape activities. Meters are not issued with type "A" permits. Type "A" permits are billed a monthly administrative fee and a flat daily fee, based on rates outlined in the fee schedule linked below. Applicants must make use of their own backflow prevention device and submit approved testing results of their device.

Type "B" permits allow a valve connection to the hydrant to fill water trucks or tanks. This water may be used for construction, street or parking lot cleaning, landscape spraying or other similar uses. Type "B" permits are billed a monthly administrative fee and a flat daily fee, based on the rates outlined in the fee schedule linked below. NOTE: All trucks and tanks must be inspected and have an air gap at the filling point or must meet backflow prevention requirements before permits are valid.

Type "C" permits allow a metered connection to the hydrant. Type "C" permits are for use with hose or piping larger than one inch and/or any other uses not classified as type "A" or "B". Type C Fire Hydrant Meter Assembly Example. After the paperwork is completed for the type "C" permit, the hydrant meter must be picked up from the City's Maintenance Operations Center. Applicants must make use of their own backflow prevention device and submit approved testing results of their device. Type "C" permits are billed a monthly administrative fee, a flat daily fee, and a commodity charge based on water usage reported, according to the rates outlined in the fee schedule linked below. The permit holder is required to report a monthly meter reading to the Development Services Center for invoicing purposes. NOTE: Type "C" permits are contingent on meter availability.

8. How do I cancel my hydrant permit?: It is your responsibility to provide written notification of cancellation via email, including the date the meter was returned to the Maintenance and Operations Center and the final meter reading. Email Development Engineering once complete.

9. Do I need to get a construction permit from the Department of Ecology?: Certain construction projects need to apply for coverage under the Construction Stormwater General Permit (CSWGP) administered by the Department of Ecology. It is the applicant’s responsibility to determine when this coverage is required. Please see Ecology’s CSWGP webpage for instructions on applying for coverage

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Planning - Homelessness

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1. I discovered an encampment, what can I do?

If you’re concerned about a person living outside and/or encounter an encampment and want to help, we encourage you to call police dispatch at 425-556-2500 to report the situation. Please don’t approach the site or anyone who might be at the site directly.

The City’s goal is to encourage individuals who are sleeping outside to access services that will help them attain housing. Police work closely with our homeless outreach services to connect individuals to community resources.

2. I called the police, but the tent is still there. What now?: Often, it takes time to build trust. Responses vary as interventions are tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Police and outreach services will continue to work to connect people to resources.

3. Why doesn’t the city do something about panhandling?: Panhandling is not illegal unless the individual is blocking you or harassing you in some fashion. If you witness or experience aggressive panhandling, call 911 and provide a brief description of the individual and their location.

4. How can I help someone who asks for money?

If they are experiencing homelessness, refer them to our homeless outreach administrator, Tisza Rutherford, 425-553-7093 or trutherford@redmond.gov.
Consider donating to and/or volunteering with local organizations that focus on getting people off the street.
Call 211, the Community Resource line, or check out their online resource guide.

5. What should I know about panhandling?

Not everyone who panhandles is homeless. Many studies have found that only a small percentage of homeless people panhandle and only a small percentage of those who panhandle are homeless.
Those who panhandle target locations where there are a lot of pedestrians and motorists.
The average daily income from panhandling varies by area - $50-$60 a day in good areas of Seattle.
Instead of giving money, consider some of these things a homeless person could use (PDF).

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Planning - Transfer of Development Rights

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1. How does the Transfer of Development Rights Program work?

The owners of properties located within environmentally or historically significant areas - known as sending areas - may sell the development potential of their properties to owners of property located in areas more suitable for development, known as receiving areas.

The sending area property owner maintains ownership of the underlying land, but must agree to record a Conservation Easement on the property that protects the resource and restricts future development of the property. The owner of the receiving area property may then increase the permitted density on their property according to the number of development rights purchased, thereby transferring the development potential from the sending area property to the receiving area property.

2. Who benefits from this Transfer of Development Rights Program?

Owners of sending area properties achieve some economic return on their property that would otherwise be restricted or prohibited from developing due to sensitive areas or low density zoning requirements.
Owners of receiving area properties can increase the density of their developments thereby accommodating a greater number of uses, tenants, or parking facilities.
The public and citizens of Redmond benefit from the program through the recorded Conservation Easements that preserve and protect open space and sensitive wildlife habitat areas for future enjoyment.

3. How much do Transfers of Development Rights cost?: The price of a Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) is determined on the private market between the buyer and seller. The price fluctuates as the demand for TDRs changes.

4. How many Transfer of Development Rights can I send from my property?

The number of Transfers of Development Rights (TDRs) granted per acre of eligible sending area is based on the site's underlying zoning. In general, where the zoning permits more intense development, an acre of eligible sending area is granted more TDRs.

For example, properties in the Urban Recreation (UR) zoning district are permitted only very low density development and therefore receive fewer Development Rights per acre than land zoned for higher intensity use, such as land in Redmond's Downtown. See Redmond Zoning Code 21.48.010(E) for details.

5. How do I participate if I own land within a sending area?

The following summarizes the necessary steps for selling Transfers of Development Rights (TDRs) if you own property in an eligible sending area.

Submission to the Planning Department

You may, at any time, submit to the Planning Department an application requesting the issuance of a Certificate of Development Rights. You will need to provide proof of title to the property, and a general description of the land that you would like to enroll in this program. You may enroll all or a portion of your property.

TDR Certificate

For properties that meet the requirements of the program, the city will issue a TDR Certificate that can then be retained by you or sold or transferred to any interested buyer. You will need to provide a legal description of the land to be enrolled before the City can issue a TDR Certificate.

Conservation Easement

Before you sell or transfer the TDR certificate, you must record a conservation easement against that portion of the property that is being enrolled in the program. The conservation easement is granted to the City of Redmond and limits the use of the property for future development.

Execute & Record Deed Transference

Once you and a willing buyer agree on terms of a purchase and sale, you must execute and record a deed transferring ownership of the development rights. While you will remain the underlying landowner (unless you sell the underlying land to a third party), the buyer of the TDRs becomes the owner of the development rights, which may be used to increase development density on land located within designated receiving areas.

Surveying the property and recording the conservation easement may take a few weeks.

6. How do I participate if I own land in a receiving area?

As a property owner in a receiving area, the first step is to acquire transferable development rights. That can occur once you have agreed to the terms of purchase and sale of Transfers of Development Rights TDRs with a sending area property owner, and the conservation easement and a deed memorializing that transaction have been recorded. Contact Jason Rogers for a list of potential TDR sellers.

Next, you may submit an application to develop your land together with notation describing the development proposed, the zoning classification of the property, the amount and serial number of the development rights used, how the development rights are proposed to be used, and a notation of the recording number of the conservation easement on file with King County.

Using TDRs on your development should not add to the total project review time. However, the amount of time it takes you to find a willing TDR will vary based on market conditions. It may take only a few days, or it could take months.

7. Where are the sending areas located?

In general, sending areas are located along:

Critical wildlife habitat areas
Steep slopes
Streams
Wetlands

Of those, only streams, stream buffers, and steep slopes can be accurately mapped. Other properties are evaluated for sending area potential at the time a property owner requests enrolling land in the Transfer of Development Rights program.

8. Where are the receiving areas located?

Receiving areas include properties within Downtown, and properties zoned

Business Park (BP)
Gateway Design District (GDD)
General Commercial (GC)
Industry (I)
Manufacturing Park (MP)
Overlake Business and Advanced Technology (OBAT)
Overlake Village (OV)

These areas were selected because they are suitable for urban development, and because they already have adequate or easily obtainable infrastructure necessary to accommodate the additional density.

9. Who may purchase development rights?: Any person or organization may purchase development rights. Property owners in receiving areas are the most likely buyers since they have a ready use for the Transfer of Development Rights program, but ownership of such property is not a requirement.

10. How do I get additional information regarding the Transfer of Development Rights program?: For complete details regarding this program and requirements, please refer to Redmond Zoning Code 21.48. For complete details and assistance in submitting an application to establish Transfers of Development Rights on qualifying sending area properties, contact Cameron Zapata, who maintains a list of owners who are interested in transferring development rights.

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Police - Identity Theft & Fraud

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1. I'm an identity theft victim, what should I do?

Steps to Take

Report the crime to the local law enforcement agency in the area where you live or where the crime occurred.
Place a fraud alert or security freeze on your credit reports. Contact information and instructions for each credit bureau can be found on the Washington Attorney General’s website and the Federal Trade Commission’s website. The credit bureaus should send you copies of your credit reports free of charge once a fraud alert is confirmed. A security freeze prevents your credit file from being shared with potential creditors, helping to prevent new credit accounts from being opened. Individuals can later request that a freeze be temporarily lifted for the purpose of obtaining new credit. More information on the difference between a credit freeze and a fraud alert can be found online.
Contact businesses or financial institutions.
Report identity theft or a suspected compromise of your personal information to the IRS to help protect your tax records.

Victim Rights

Identity theft victims have the right under Washington law (RCW 9.35.040) and Federal law (15 USC. § 1681g(e)) to obtain copies of records from businesses, etc, related to the fraudulent use of the victim’s identity. The Federal Trade Commission (citing Federal law) and the Washington Attorney General’s Office (citing Washington law) each provide sample letters for victims to request records from businesses. Both sample letters include language for a victim to authorize law enforcement to take receipt of the records should the victim wish to use it. Remember to include copies of applicable enclosures, depending on which law you cite to request the documents (information included in the links above).

Additional Information

Additional information and tips are available on the Washington Attorney General’s website and the Federal Trade Commission’s website.

2. How was my information stolen?

Types of Theft

Your information can be taken from many outlets. Included is a list of the most common ways your information could have been stolen.

Mail Theft

Identity thieves often obtain banking, tax or medical information by stealing mail.

Car Prowls/Burglary/Other Theft

The same documents stolen from the mail can be targeted by burglars. Stealing purses and wallets from shopping carts or during car prowls give identity thieves access to victims’ information as well.

Dumpster Diving

Suspects rummage through trash looking for banking, tax or medical information that contains personal information.

Electronic Data Breaches

Identity thieves may target individual victims with “phishing” emails, pretending to be a legitimate business emailing a customer to convince the victim to reveal personal information. Other times suspects hack into businesses’ systems to obtain information on large numbers of victims at once.

3. How do I know if my information has been stolen?

Here are some ways you can tell if your information has been compromised or stolen:

Bills or other mail fails to arrive when expected.
Unauthorized financial transactions occur.
Mail, email or calls about accounts that don’t belong to you are received.
There is unexpected information or a mistake on account statements, credit reports or medical records.
You receive letters or calls about purchases, accounts or jobs in your name.
Your legitimate request for credit is denied for no apparent reason.
The IRS notifies you that a tax return was already filed in your name or that you have income from an employer you don’t work for.
You receive notice that your information was compromised by a data breach at a business that you use.

4. How can I avoid identity theft?

Avoid theft by following these helpful tips:

Shred financial documents containing personal information after they’re no longer needed.
Carry only necessary documents and cards in your wallet or purse. Refrain from carrying your Social Security card, birth certificate or passport except when needed.
Keep personal information in a secured place at home. Be particularly cautious if you have roommates, employ outside help or are having work done in your home.
Guard mail from theft. Deposit outgoing mail at the post office. Remove mail from home mailboxes as soon as possible. Consider a locking mailbox or a post office box for incoming mail. Many financial institutions will allow checks and debit cards to be sent to your local branch for pickup instead of mailed to your home.
Beware of unsolicited email, texts or phone messages asking for personal information. Delete these “phishing” messages. Do not return a call to a number given by a potential scammer; if you become concerned about an account, call the number listed on your credit/debit card or your statement.
Obtain a copy of your credit report at least once a year from each of the three major credit bureaus. Consumers are entitled to one free report from each bureau per year. Space out the requests over the year so that you request one report every 3 to 4 months. Visit www.annualcreditreport.com or visit the Federal Trade Commission’s website for additional contact information for the bureaus.
Opt out from pre-screened credit card offers, national direct mailing lists and telemarketing lists. Further information can be found on the Federal Trade Commission’s website.
Take proper precautions if you access or use financial information online. Use firewalls, anti-spyware and anti-virus software on computers. Create strong passwords and use different passwords for each account. If shopping or banking online make sure the website is encrypted (the web address will begin with “https”). Properly update operating systems, computer security and software. Always encrypt information sent over a public or open wireless network.

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Police - Online Reporting

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1. What do I do if online reporting is not right for me?: If your incident is an emergency, call 911. If non-emergency call 425-556-2500. For example, if something is happening in real time and you see a criminal or vehicle in the act, call 911.

2. What if this happened in another city? Can I still file a report here?: No, if a crime took place outside the City of Redmond, please call law enforcement for that city or county.

3. What if this happened on a state freeway?: If this took place on a state Freeway please call the Highway Patrol Office nearest you.

4. What is a known suspect?: A known suspect is when you or someone else knows the person or where to find the person who committed the crime. Or, you may know the license plate number of the vehicle the suspect(s) were in.

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Police - Recruitment

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1. How do I apply?: Complete your application and Personal History Questionnaire (PHS) on the Public Safety Testing (PST)website and send results to Redmond Police recruiters. Complete application through the city website.

2. How long is the background check?: Once you pass the oral board and begin the background check, the process takes approximately six weeks.

3. What is the hiring process?: After testing through PST and submitting an application through the City, qualified applicants will attend an oral board exam. Next, the applicant will need to pass the background check, including a confirmation interview, chief’s interview, psychologicalexam, and polygraph exam. After successfully completing a second psychological and medical exam, applicants will receive a conditional offer.

4. How long is academy and do I get paid during this time?: The academy is 20 weeks or 720 hours. Your hiring agency will send you to the academy and you will receive entry-level pay during this time.

5. How many openings does RPD have?: We maintain a continuous hiring list. Please contact our Recruiting and Hiring Team at policehiring@redmond.gov.

6. What is the work schedule?: Officers work four 10-hour shifts with three days off. Officers work Monday-Thursday or Thursday-Sunday and rotate every six weeks. The three shifts available are day shift, swing shift, and night shift. Bidding for shifts takes place annually and is based upon seniority.

7. How long is the field training program (FTP)?: FTP is 12-16 weeks long and consists of four phases. Student officers will be paired with a variety of training officers and will learn the different procedures and operations of the department.

8. When should I apply?: You can apply any time if you meet the minimum requirements at the time of application.

9. Can I be reimbursed for training with the GI Bill?: Yes, you may be eligible for benefits while you are in training.

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Police - Sex Offenders

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1. Can cities restrict where sex offenders live?

No. Federal and state courts have repeatedly struck down local ordinances that restrict where persons may live. The courts have found that the Constitution protects individual rights, including the individual rights of sex offenders who have served time in facilities.

2. How does Redmond Police Department notify people about offenders?

The Redmond Police Department informs people as soon as they know about registered level 2 and level 3 offenders. If a sex offender is being released from jail, the Police typically has 30 days advance notice if there is an intention to move here.

However, if a registered sex offender moves from one location to another, then the police may have no notice at all. In the case of a level three offender, those living close by are notified. Police officers will attend community meetings if a neighborhood desires to talk specifics.

3. What does it mean to be a registered sex offender?

All sex offenders released from prison following conviction must register with the Sheriff's department in the county in which they choose to live. The Sheriff‘s Department then notifies the local jurisdiction. A registered sex offender is required to notify local law enforcement where they live within 24 hours of moving.

4. Besides registering, what else is a registered sex offender required to do?: Some have additional restrictions placed upon them as a condition of their release or probation. However, not all registered sex offenders have additional conditions beyond registering and meeting with their assigned probation officer.

5. How can we make sure children are safe?

Children are particularly vulnerable to sex offenders. Open communication between parents and children is vital to family safety. If a picture is available of the offender, show it to your family. In general terms, tell your children that this person has hurt someone before. Explain that they should stay away from this individual. Avoid scary details.

Also, it is vital that parents:

Know where their children are and who their friends are.
Have a family password. If anyone approaches your children or contacts them, then have a secret password that you use to make sure that person is legitimate.
Review safety rules regarding not letting people in the house, not giving away information on the phone or in person, what to say when someone calls or knocks on the door.
Communicate with your child about what is going on in their lives.
Encourage them to talk to a trusted adult if they are afraid.

6. Do offenders have restrictions on where they can live?

It depends on whether the offender is under supervision by the Department of Corrections/Juvenile Rehabilitation Administration. If so, they have certain limitations or restrictions placed on them by the Department of Corrections or the sentencing court upon their release from incarceration.

These may include: residency restrictions, not being around children, having a curfew, or not drinking alcohol or taking drugs. If they are found to be in violation of their restrictions, they may be sent back to jail or to prison. Offenders who have completed their time under supervision can live where they choose without restrictions.

7. What do I do if I see the offender doing something I think is suspicious?: Call local law enforcement or the sheriff's office and report it. It is best to let law enforcement handle the situation rather than taking it into your own hands. If you know an offender's specific restrictions and you witness a violation, call 911 or call the community corrections officer at the Department of Corrections.

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Police FAQs

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1. Do Redmond Police officers wear body-worn cameras?

The Redmond Police Department implemented a Body-Worn Camera (BWC) program for all sworn officers and installed dash cameras in all patrol vehicles. In 2021, Chief Darrell Lowe petitioned City Council to allocate funding for the BWC program which includes additional staffing needed to support the program. A select few Redmond Police Officers are currently field testing body-worn cameras on calls for service and self-initiated activities. In the coming weeks, all sworn personnel will receive their equipment and full implementation will occur.

2. Does the Redmond Police Department have clear standards for when force can be used?

The Redmond Police Department’s Use of Force Policy has been adapted to incorporate the standards set forth by Washington State Law guidelines to Physical Force and Deadly Force applications.

Physical Force- Officers shall use reasonable care when determining whether to use and when using any physical force against another person. The least amount of physical force necessary shall be used to overcome resistance under the circumstances (Chapter 324 § 3, 2021 Laws).

An officer may use physical force upon another person when necessary to:

Protect against criminal conduct where there is probable cause to make an arrest or effect an arrest.
Prevent an escape as defined under chapter 9A.76 RCW.
Protect against an imminent threat of bodily injury to the officer, another person, or the person against whom force is being used.

Officers shall terminate the use of physical force as soon as the necessity for such force ends.

Deadly Force Applications- When reasonable, the officer shall, before the use of deadly force, make efforts to identify him/herself as a peace officer and to warn that deadly force may be used, unless the officer has objectively reasonable grounds to believe the person is aware of those facts.

Use of deadly force is only justified when the officer reasonably believes it is necessary for the following circumstances (Chapter 324 § 3, 2021 Laws):

An officer may use deadly force to protect him/herself or others from what he/she reasonably believes is an imminent threat of serious physical injury or death.

For purposes of deadly force, an "imminent threat of serious physical injury or death" exists when, based on the totality of the circumstances, it is objectively reasonable to believe that a person has the present and apparent ability, opportunity, and intent to immediately cause death or serious bodily injury to the peace officer or another person.

Redmond Police Department Use of Force Policy

3. Does the Redmond Police Department allow chokeholds?

Chokeholds and strangleholds are considered deadly force at the Redmond Police Department and can only be used when deadly force can be lawfully justified.

4. When are RPD officers authorized to use deadly force?

In considering whether to use deadly force under subsection (1)(c) of the Authorization by Law section of the Use of Force policy, "to arrest or apprehend any person for the commission of any crime, the peace officer must have probable cause to believe that the suspect, if not apprehended, poses a threat of serious physical harm to the officer or a threat of serious physical harm to others."

PHILOSOPHY: The Redmond Police Department strives to deliver police services as efficiently and unobtrusively as possible with minimal reliance upon the use of physical force or response to resistance. It is recognized that officers are expected to make split-second decisions and that the amount of time available to evaluate and respond to changing circumstances may impact an officer’s decision. While various degrees of force exist, each officer is expected to use only that degree of force reasonable under the circumstances perceived by the officer at the time of the event to successfully accomplish the legitimate law enforcement purpose and bring the incident under control.

Redmond Police Department Use of Force Policy

5. Does the Redmond Police Department require officers to exhaust all alternatives before using deadly force?: Yes. Redmond Police Officers must use deadly force only when necessary and when they believe less lethal options have been exhausted or will not work. For instance, if someone is actively killing someone, we do not have to move through all of the less lethal options first before stopping the murder.

6. Does the Redmond Police Department have a use of force continuum?

The specific term "use of force continuum" refers to an outdated use of force model. As a state accredited agency, our use of force policy is grounded in the fundamental concepts of de-escalation and reasonableness. If force is necessary, then the officer uses only that amount of force that is reasonable given the facts and circumstances at the time of the event – and only for a legitimate law enforcement purpose. This is in line with current best practices in the policing profession.

7. Does the Redmond Police Department investigate themselves if deadly force is used?

No. After the passage of Initiative 940/SHB 1064 in November 2018, law enforcement agencies in Washington State are prohibited from conducting their own investigations when deadly force is used.

The Redmond Police Department is a participating member of the Independent Force Investigative Team-King County (IFIT-KC). IFIT-KC is a multi-agency team made of investigators from 13 King County Police Departments. If any Redmond Police personnel are involved in an incident of deadly force, the Redmond members of the IFIT-KC team will be excluded from all aspects of the investigation.

8. How does the Redmond Police Department track use of force in their agency?: The Redmond Police Department uses a database to log all instances force is used by an officer. This database logs information about the incident. This information includes the level of force used, why the force was used, and demographic information on the persons involved. This database also serves as an early intervention system by notifying the department if an officer has an increased number of uses of force, collisions, or complaints.

9. What is the expectation of a Redmond Police Officer who observes excessive force?

Redmond Police Officers have a duty to intervene and stop excessive force. In addition, any Police Department employee who witnesses a Redmond Police Officer use force that appears to be in violation of this standard shall report such use of force to his/her immediate supervisor as soon as practical.

10. Do the Redmond Police provide immediate medical assistance after a use of force?

Yes. After using force, as soon as safely able, Redmond Police Officers are expected to provide medical assistance including using lifesaving measures such as CPR and calling for immediate medical assistance.

11. What kind of de-escalation training do Redmond Police Officers receive?

Redmond Police Officers receive critical de-escalation training to help learn how to use time, distance and shielding in critical incidents in hopes to use less force in crisis situations. This training begins in the State Police Academy and continues throughout an officer’s career with our department. It is standard to incorporate de-escalation techniques into most trainings and is a concept woven into all training that is provided.

All officers also receive Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) in the law enforcement academy. All Washington Officers are now required to complete a yearly two-hour refresher course provided by and tracked by the Washington Criminal Justice Training Center. CIT training builds upon the concept of de-escalation specifically with people suffering from a mental health and/or a substance abuse crisis.

Redmond Police utilize the full-time Mental Health Professional to co-respond to crisis patrol calls to assist in de-escalation.

12. Does the Redmond Police Department ban shooting at moving vehicles?

Redmond Police firearms training strongly discourages shooting at moving vehicles because it increases the risk of causing more injury and harm to the community if the vehicle loses control and other safety concerns.

13. Do Redmond Police Officers receive any training on implicit bias, racism or prejudice?

Yes. Redmond Police Officers also receive training on the above topics in the Washington State Basic Law Enforcement Academy and in annual refresher trainings and other professional development courses. Every City of Redmond employee, including police employees, receive ongoing training on implicit bias, racism and prejudice. Most recently, in 2019, every employee completed a course titled “Deconstructing our Bias” taught by Chanin Kelly-Rae, a former Statewide Diversity Manager for the State of Washington. This course focused on ensuring our work for the community is always mindful of diversity, equity and inclusion for all. The City of Redmond is committed to establishing equity and inclusion training on topics including implicit bias to all new employees and maintaining that training throughout an employee’s career. For more information on ’Welcoming Redmond’, the citywide cultural inclusion initiative that the Police Department actively participates in, visit www.redmond.gov/675/Welcoming-Redmond.

14. How do Community Members get involved with the Redmond Police Department?

Community members are welcomed to join RPD in many arenas. You can volunteer, join our Community Equity Action Team, or work for us as an officer, dispatcher or support staff. We are also actively seeking employees who represent our diverse population and have a desire to make a difference in our community.

Learn more at www.redmond.gov/684/Join-Our-Police-Team

15. What is the Community Equity Action Team?: This council advises the Chief of Police on issues related to equity, transparency and community relations. For more information on the process through which it was created, and how to join, visit www.redmond.gov/CEAT.

16. Does the Redmond Police have a policy about filming the police?

The Redmond Police Department recognizes the community’s right to videotape and film police officers working in public, and we will not take your phone from you simply for filming us. The Redmond Police Department will not seize phones unless lawfully allowed, including by consent of the owner of the phone or when legally pursuing a search warrant to search the phone before returning it to the owner.

17. Does RPD have any surplus military equipment received under the federal 1033 program?: No, RPD does not.

18. Does the Redmond Police Department share employee information with other departments if an employee leaves after discipline?

The Redmond Police Department conducts thorough background investigations into employees and participates in other agencies background investigations when requested. This holistic investigation includes verifying that our employees have no affiliations to discriminatory groups or activities, do not have a history of hate speech or abuse, and more. In addition, police officers who leave the agency under sustained discipline are reported when appropriate to the Criminal Justice Training Commission for evaluation of their certification. If an officer is convicted of a crime, for example, this information is shared with the state so the commission can determine if they want to revoke their peace officer certification

Learn more at www.cjtc.wa.gov/certification/certification-hearings

19. How do we learn about your police union contracts?

For information regarding our collective bargaining agreements, please see here: City of Redmond Labor Contracts. We believe in collective bargaining and lawful accountability through due process for all community members, including police employees.

20. How do I file a complaint on a Redmond Police Employee?

If you would like to file a complaint on a Redmond Police Employee, you have multiple options. For detailed information see this document.

If you are in a situation and would like a supervisor to respond to the scene, you can make that request to an officer and a supervisor will be requested.
If you would like to talk to a supervisor over the phone, you can call our 24/7 non-emergency line at 425-556-2500 and request to file a complaint. Our Dispatch Center will locate the on-duty supervisor and have them contact you.
You can also visit the Redmond Police Department lobby and request to speak with a supervisor in person.

21. Does the Redmond PD follow the six pillars of the 21st Century Policing Task Force report released by the Obama administration in 2015?: As a Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs (WASPC) accredited agency, the six pillars of the 21st Century Policing Task Force are incorporated into the accreditation process and can be found throughout Redmond Police policies and procedures. The six pillars are a priority for RPD and act as a benchmark for evaluation of all our performance and processes as we continuously grow and develop as an agency.

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Potholes & Pavement Repair

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1. Where do potholes come from?: Potholes start in cold temperatures when groundwater freezes and expands. Once the ground thaws out, it returns to a normal level. But, pavement pushed up during the ground freeze remains raised. This causes a gap between the pavement and the ground. Vehicles riding over these gaps cause the road surface to crack and fall into that hollow space.

2. How do I report a pothole?: The City welcomes reports from drivers about roadways in need of repair. Providing us with the exact location (for example, outside the southbound lane on 148 Avenue NE just north of NE 70 Street) will help speed response time. To report a pothole(s), use the City’s new request management system to report non-emergency issues, make requests, and find answers to common questions. A link to the City's request management system can be found on most City pages as "Report an Issue".

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Redmond Lights

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1. Where is Redmond Lights?: Redmond Lights 2022 is located in Downtown Park at 16144 Cleveland St, Redmond, WA 98052. The month-long installation of light and art begins on Dec. 1 and the last day for viewing is Jan. 4.

2. When is Redmond Lights?: Redmond Lights 2022 is taking place from Dec. 1, 2022 through Jan. 4, 2023, in Downtown Park. Lights and art can be viewed on any event from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday Night Celebrations with live entertainment will take place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Dec. 2, 9, and 16 in Downtown Park.

3. When are the lights on?: Lights and art will be available for viewing in Downtown Park each evening from 5 to 11 p.m. from Dec. 1 to Jan. 4.

4. Why is Redmond Lights in Downtown Park?: Redmond Lights moved to Downtown Park in 2020 to accommodate COVID-19 restrictions and King County’s planned sewer upgrade project along the Sammamish River Trail, which is where the luminary walk of the event historically took place. Redmond Lights continued in Downtown Park in 2021 to continue to meet COVID-19 restrictions and the delay of the planned construction. In 2022, with COVID-19 restrictions removed, in-person, live entertainment will now be reinstated as a part of the event. However, with the construction of the Redmond Senior & Community Center on City Hall campus and planned King County construction along the Sammamish River Trail, the event will remain in Downtown Park. In June and July of 2023, staff will evaluate the current construction timelines for both projects to determine the location for Redmond Lights 2023 and beyond.

5. How much does it cost to attend Redmond Lights?: Redmond Lights is free to attend. Some vendors may charge for food, beverages, or other goods during the Friday Night Celebrations on Dec. 2, 9, and 16.

6. Where can I get a 2022 Redmond Lights blinker?: You can get your Redmond Lights blinker starting on Dec. 1 at a Redmond Lights Blinker Stop. The map of Blinker Stop locations (coming soon!) will guide you to where you can pick up this year’s exclusive blinker. Blinkers are first-come, first-serve, and available in limited numbers, so be sure to get yours early in the month. Local organizations and businesses near Downtown Park were contacted starting in mid-September to be a Blinker Stop. This year’s Blinker Stop program is sponsored by Stock Charts.

7. Why is the tree next to City Hall not lighted this year?: With the construction of the Redmond Senior and Community center, the tree is surrounded by construction fencing and is not accessible for lighting this year.

8. How can my organization or business get involved in Redmond Lights?

The Redmond Lights website lists ways for businesses to be involved including event sponsorship, business window decorating contests, blinker stops, and more.

Business outreach for Redmond Lights 2022 began in August 2022. Businesses surrounding and near Downtown Park were visited by staff and many others were contacted through OneRedmond, email, and other partnerships and contacts.

9. How is art selected for Redmond Lights?: The art for Redmond Lights 2022 is being selected through two artist calls. One call opened to the public from Aug. 12 to Sept. 23. The second is specifically tailored for participants of the 2022 Public Art Intensive Eastside, a free two-day basic training for visual artists who wish to develop their work for the public realm. Applicants from both calls are reviewed by a selection panel that includes artists, members of the community, and Arts and Culture commission members. The recommendations from this panel then move to the Arts and Culture Commission for approval. Following approval/selection, this year's process includes additional check-ins with artists to ensure that the final artwork continues to align with its approved design.

10. How can I get to the event?

Public Transit – Visit King County Metro’s website to plan your trip to Redmond Lights.
Free Parking is available in partnership with Redmond Town Center - 7525 166th Ave NE, Redmond, WA 98052

11. Where can I learn more about Redmond Lights?: Visit redmond.gov/RedmondLights to learn more.

12. What are Friday Night Celebrations?: This year, Redmond Lights is able to expand to include in-person programming at Downtown Park during the month-long installations of light and art. That programming will be during Friday Night Celebrations from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Dec. 2, 9, and 16. Everyone is welcome to visit Downtown Park during these times for live entertainment and activities. More expansive information will be available on the website at www.redmond.gov/RedmondLights closer to the event timeframe.

13. What is OneRedmond's International Market?: OneRedmond will be hosting an International Winter Market on December 3 at Downtown Park during Redmond Lights. You can view more information about this on their website.

14. Who are the event sponsors in 2022?

You can view the logos and links for all Redmond Lights sponsors on the main page of the event website at www.redmond.gov/RedmondLights

15. Are restrooms available at Redmond Lights?: Downtown Park has restrooms available during open park hours and these will be available to all Redmond Lights attendees.

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Redmond Pool

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1. What is the latest update on the pool?: The Redmond Pool is currently in the first phase of essential improvements. Recently contractors discovered an existing but unknown condition. The substructure of the pool is compromised; there are areas where concrete has deteriorated leaving aggregate and rusting rebar behind. The damage extends sporadically from approximately 1’ to 5’ off the bottom of the pool’s deep end. This unexpected repair will take approximately 3 months to correct the substructure and complete the pool lining. To accommodate this unexpected delay the Redmond Pool will not open in November as previously scheduled and will remain closed to complete both Phase 1 and 2 and is expected to re-open in fall of 2020.

2. When will the pool open?: The Redmond Pool will not open in November as previously scheduled, and will remain closed to complete both Phase 1 and 2. The Redmond Pool is expected to re-open in fall of 2020.

3. How can I get more information?

Read the most recent Press Release regarding the status of the Redmond Pool. Updates will also continue to be made on the website redmond.gov/Pool.

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Redmond Senior & Community Center FAQs

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1. How are parks and recreation facilities named?

Redmond City Council adopted Resolution No. 1516, on April 26, 2019, that established policies and procedures for the naming of public parks and recreation related facilities. It is the policy of the City of Redmond to choose names for public parks and park and recreation facilities based upon the site’s relationship to the following criteria:

Neighborhood, geographic or common usage identification;
A natural or geological feature;
An historical figure, place, event, or other instance of historical or cultural significance;
An individual (living or deceased) who has made a significant land and/or monetary contribution to the park system or who has had the contribution made “in memoriam”; and when the name has been stipulated as a condition of the donation;
An individual who has contributed outstanding civic service to the City of Redmond and who has been deceased for a period of at least two years.

2. Who decides the name of the building?: The City Council designates the name of public parks and park or recreation facilities per Resolution No. 1516. The City Council will make its selection after receiving a recommendation from the Redmond Parks and Trails Commission, based upon public input from individuals and organizations.

3. What was the community outreach and involvement for determining the name of the building?: Submissions were collected from key stakeholder groups such as the RSCC Stakeholders’ Group, Senior Advisory Committee, Parks & Trails Commissions, Parks & Recreation staff, and the Arts & Culture Commission. The submission list was than narrowed to 3 names by parks and recreation staff. Public feedback was collected at the groundbreaking ceremony, promoted on the Parks & Recreation Facebook page, Parks & Recreation – Senior page, City Facebook page, Parks eNewsletter, and the city eNewsletter directing people to a Let’s Connect questionnaire hosted on www.redmond.gov.

4. What is the name of the building?

At their Aug. 16 business meeting, the members of the Redmond City Council voted four to one in support of naming the City's new community center the Redmond Senior & Community Center. The name recognizes the new facility as a space for all generations to enjoy, gather, and recreate. Throughout the robust naming process, community members shared that they appreciated the name's descriptiveness and that it clearly identifies the building as a place where seniors can feel comfortable and welcome.

For more information, please read the press release issued on Aug. 22, 2022

5. What is the definition of a significant or landmark tree?: A significant tree is defined as (RZC 21.78) any healthy tree six inches in diameter at breast height (DBH), or any tree four inches DBH, after considering its age, height, value, or function, the tree or stand is determined to be significant. A landmark tree is defined as (RZC 21.78) any healthy tree over 30 inches in diameter.

6. How many trees will be removed, impacted, and retained from the project site and what is the city doing to mitigate the impacts?: Redmond Zoning Code (RZC 21.72) requires a minimum of 35 percent of all on-site significant trees to be retained. 31 trees will be removed, 41 trees will be impacted, and 72 trees (or 49%) will be retained (including tree 161), which exceeds the 35% minimum requirement. Note that 41 trees are impacted due to work in their vicinity, but a certified arborist has determined these 41 trees are expected to survive.

7. How many trees will be replaced?: 199 new trees will be planted through both on-site and off-site tree replacements to mitigate the removal of trees, and satisfy the requirements outlined in RZC 21.72. Replacement species will be both evergreen and deciduous with a variety of maples, cedars, oak, dogwood, locust, and pine.

8. What precautions will be put in place to limit impact to the trees remaining on-site?: All construction activities will be required to meet tree protection standards covered in RZC 21.72 through an established Tree Protection Zone (TPZ) for all trees remaining on site. Barriers will be placed five feet out from the dripline of each tree prior to any land disturbance. Any entry or work within the TPZ of retained or impacted trees will need to occur under the direct supervision of a certified arborist. If roots are found during excavation, the certified arborist will help direct crews to make a “clean-cut” on roots to maintain tree health.

9. How was the number of replacement trees calculated?: Significant trees that are either removed or impacted by construction are considered a removed tree per the definition from RZC 21.78,. Trees within the shoreline zone are replaced at a ratio dictated by their size per RZC 21.68. Trees outside the shoreline are replaced at 1:1 ratio. Due to one landmark tree being impacted (not removed), tree replacements for this impact were calculated at a 3:1 ratio. Minimum sizes for replacement trees shall be two-and-one-half-inch caliper for deciduous trees, or six feet in height for evergreen trees.

10. What is the replanting plan after construction of the building is substantially complete?: The proposed planting plan incorporates native plants at a greater extent than currently exists on site. This represents an improvement in habitat value and no plants currently identified as invasive or noxious are proposed for replanting. Many of the native species selected will provide forage and habitat for wildlife. In addition, nonnative trees and shrubs provide some habitat due to increased canopy and cover upon existing conditions. Nonnative flowering perennials will also provide pollinator habitat.

11. Will the pickleball courts at the Municipal Campus be open throughout construction?: The Municipal Campus pickleball courts are adjacent to an active construction zone for the new Senior & Community Center. In the interest and safety of all, the Municipal Campus pickleball courts closed on Monday, Aug 8 and will remain closed until Spring 2023, when it is safe to reopen. To find alternative pickleball courts in Redmond, please visit www.redmond.gov/pickleball

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Redmond Senior Center Closure

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1. Where can I find information about the new Redmond Senior and Community Center (RSCC) building project?: Visit the Redmond Senior and Community Center project page for latest information about this exciting project.

2. Why was the original Redmond Senior Center building taken down?

The Redmond Senior Center underwent an exterior building evaluation in preparation for long term maintenance and repairs outlined in the City’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). RSC’s mechanical systems, roof, and building exterior were scheduled to be replaced in 2021. This evaluation conducted by a contracted structural engineering firm confirmed extensive structural damage to the exterior walls and substantial impact to both the lateral and gravity systems. For the safety of the community, the building was closed in September of 2019 and taken down in November of 2020.

A new Redmond Senior and Community Center (RSCC) building is planned on the site of the original Redmond Senior Center. Please visit the project page here for the latest news, information and how you can get involved in this exciting project.

3. Where can I find out about senior programs and activities currently offered?: During the COVID-19 pandemic, Redmond Senior Program activities have been moved to an online format. To view current online offerings, please visit redmond.gov/RSC, call 425-556-2314, or email us at rsc@redmond.gov. Redmond Senior Programs also produces Encore, a free monthly newsletter which is posted monthly on the Senior Resource and Services page. If you would like to receive a mailed copy, please send an email to rsc@redmond.gov (and be sure to include your full name, address and email!)

4. Is there currently a senior lunch program?: During the COVID-19 pandemic, Senior Programs offers a Curbside Senior Lunch Program every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. in front of Redmond City Hall, 15670 NE 85th Street, Redmond. Advanced registration is required. Please call 425-556-2300 for more information or to sign up. $3 suggested donation is accepted at time of registration or by check or cash curbside. Please visit www.redmond.gov/RSC for more details and information about current program offerings.

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Right-of-Way Use Permit

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1. How long does it take to get a permit?: Allow 30-60 days for review after a complete submittal package has been accepted.

2. How much does it cost?: Permit costs vary. See the current fee schedule found on the City of Redmond Right-Of-Way page for details.

3. Why would I need a bond?: A bond is necessary to guarantee the proposed work in the Right-of-Way meets the requirements outlined in the permit.

4. Do I need a Right-of-Way permit for a moving pod?

It depends on where the moving (or storage) pod is located.

Pods placed entirely on a private driveway do not require a permit
Pods are not allowed to block any portion of the sidewalk
Pods are not allowed in the Downtown Redmond area
Pods that protrude onto any part of the public right of way require a permit; certain conditions may apply

See Redmond Zoning Code 21.38.010.F.5. for additional details, or contact the Right-of-Way office.

5. I am having a load of bark (topsoil, rock, etc.) delivered to my house. Can it be dumped on the street or sidewalk?: No, deliveries are not allowed to be unloaded on the street, curb, or sidewalk. All materials must be covered if they are not immediately spread. You may be responsible for any material run-off that enters into the City storm water systems.

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Signs & Markings

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1. Drivers are speeding on my street. Can I get a stop sign installed?

The City of Redmond does not install stop signs for the purpose of controlling traffic speed. Stop signs are used at locations where a failure to assign right-of-way could result in an accident, for example at an intersection where sight distance and accident history is a problem. National traffic engineering guidelines outlined in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) states that Stop signs are intended for use where traffic is required to stop. Because Stop signs cause substantial inconvenience to drivers, they should be used only where warranted. The consequences of placing a Stop sign in an unwarranted location may exceed the benefit. When placed in an inappropriate location they can:

Breed disrespect for stop signs in general
Cause fast stops and accelerations
Give pedestrians and cross-street drivers a false sense of security
Antagonize otherwise reasonable drivers

2. How can I report a Stop sign that is missing or has been knocked down?

A Stop sign that is missing, damaged, or obstructed in some way from a driver’s view creates the potential for an extremely hazardous traffic condition and should be reported to the City right away. To report, contact Redmond Police Dispatch at 425-556-2500.

Request Management System

Use the City’s new request management system to report non-emergency issues, make requests, and find answers to common questions.

3. I need a street name sign on my street. How can I get one?: To get a street name sign on your street call 425-556-2752 or send an email.

4. I want a "Children at Play" sign installed in my neighborhood. How can I get one?

A "Children at Play" sign is usually requested in the hope that it will reduce vehicular speeds and raise awareness for drivers that there are children in the neighborhood. Traffic studies have shown that "Children at Play" signs do not increase driver awareness to the point of reducing pedestrian collisions. In fact, placement of these signs can increase the potential for accidents because the signs convey to children and parents a message of protection which does not exist and cannot be guaranteed.

For this reason, the City of Redmond follows national traffic engineering guidelines outlined in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices and does not recognize the sign as an official traffic control device and therefore, discourages its use.

Please note that "Children at Play" signs installed by residents on public streets will be removed by the City of Redmond.

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Stormwater

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1. What is stormwater?: Stormwater is rain and melting snow that runs off surfaces that cannot readily absorb water. These surfaces include rooftops, pavement, compacted gravel lots, and even frozen ground. Stormwater runoff picks up pollution, can cause erosion and flooding problems. These problems occur when we alter the land and change the way water moves through the landscape.

2. How does stormwater affect pollution?: As stormwater flows towards receiving waters such as streams, lakes, rivers or soaks into the aquifer, it picks up pollutants. These pollutants include things as sediment, airborne dust, pet waste, oil, grease, fertilizers, chemicals, litter and whatever else we leave on the ground or pour down our storm drains and grates.

3. How does stormwater increase flooding?: As the City grows and more rooftops, driveways, streets and other hard or impervious surfaces are built, the land loses its capacity to soak up and carry away excess water. As a result, rain or snow events that might result in a flood once every 100 years in an undeveloped area can cause flooding every four or five years after development occurred.

4. What are ways to help prevent stormwater flooding and pollution?

pick up pet waste
keep your storm drains and grates clear of leaves and debris
limit the use of chemicals at home and work
avoid washing or pressure washing cars in driveways
consider low impact development (LID) techniques like rain gardens, porous pavement, and rainwater harvesting that keep the water onsite
plant a tree to soak up rainwater and filter pollutants

5. What is a Media Filter?: A media filter is a type of filter that uses a bed of sand, compost, crushed granite or other material to filter water for drinking, swimming pools, irrigation, stormwater management and other applications. Media filters can remove pollutants in stormwater such as suspended solids, dissolved metals, oil & grease, and phosphorus.

6. What is a Stormwater Treatment Wetland?: Stormwater treatment wetlands (a.k.a. constructed wetlands) are structural practices that incorporate wetland plants in a shallow pool. As stormwater runoff flows through the wetland, pollutants settle and are broken down by biological process in the plants and soil. Wetlands are among the most effective stormwater practices in terms of pollutant removal, and also offer aesthetic value. Stormwater wetlands are fundamentally different from natural wetland systems. Stormwater wetlands are designed specifically for the purpose of treating stormwater runoff, and typically have less biodiversity than natural wetlands both in terms of plant and animal life.

7. How is the Stormwater Fee calculated?: The stormwater utility fee is based on the demand the property puts on the system. General Information on Redmond's Stormwater Utility and Stormwater Billing is in this publication: Stormwater Utility Fee.

8. How are stormwater funds used?

The Stormwater Utility is financed with revenue generated by a stormwater utility fee that is charged to owners of developed property.

Each developed parcel in the City is subject to the stormwater utility charge. Drainage from most properties enters or impacts the City stormwater system in some manner. These facilities, which are generally located on City streets, require continual maintenance and improvement.

The stormwater utility also supports capital improvement projects for flood control, erosion, conveyance improvements, and regional water quality or detention facilities. The utility also monitors the health of local streams, constructs habitat improvement projects, and responds to State and Federal regulatory and permitting requirements.

9. How do I pay my utility bill?

The City of Redmond offers a wide range of convenient payment options including:

Online Payment (Visa or MasterCard)
Direct Debit Payment (Automatically pay your utility bill directly from your bank account)
Payment by Phone (Visa or MasterCard)
Payment by Mail
Payment in Person

Make your payment and learn more on the Payment Options page.

10. What is being done to manage Stormwater?

WATERSHED PLANNING

The City has been divided into 68 drainage areas – or watersheds – for study. We are taking a detailed look at each watershed to determine the best way to handle stormwater from existing and future development. Watershed plans will enable us to make better choices about how to plan, maintain, and construct our drainage systems so they can better meet the community's many needs.

MAINTENANCE

We are improving the way we maintain ponds, swales, catch basins, drywells, ditches and culverts. We are mapping the location of each stormwater facility, monitoring their condition and tracking the time it takes to maintain them. This will help us determine which ones are working well, which ones aren't and which ones we need to replace immediately to save money.

PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT AND AWARENESS

We are informing the public about drainage systems, how they function and how to take care of them. This will help reduce threats to water quality and prevent flooding problems.

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS

Stormwater funds pay for construction of projects by City crews and contractors to repair or rehabilitate failed stormwater facilities and construct new regional facilities to better manage stormwater throughout the City. Stream restoration efforts rely on Stormwater Utility support to repair eroded areas, restore fish habitat, and enhance stream buffers.

11. How do I correct or change the billing address for my stormwater bill?: Please complete the following form and submit to the City: Stormwater Request to Change Billing Address Form

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Stormwater Source Control

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1. What is Stormwater Source Control?: Stormwater source control is an approach to finding potential pollution sources and stopping them from mixing with rainwater and entering a storm drain (the grates you see in the street or parking lot into which water flows). Depending on your site location within Redmond, runoff from your property will infiltrate (seep into groundwater), flow to the City’s stormwater drainage system, or travel directly to a nearby creek, river, wetland, or lake. Redmond Stormwater Source Control staff work with businesses and property owners to identify potential pollution sources before reaching the stormwater drainage system or surface waters. Stormwater Source Control staff share information on stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs) to help reduce and remove these potential pollution sources and help enforce city pollution prevention codes.

2. What are Source Control Best Management Practices (also called BMPs)?

BMPs are water pollution controls (devices and actions) that reduce or prevent pollution. Some stormwater BMPs make sense to implement at every location:

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Spill Kit

Be prepared for spills by preparing a spill kit and spill plan. Here is a Spill Plan Template for your use.

Dumpsters

Always close dumpster lids. Swap out dumpster/trash compactors if they have holes and leak.

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Hazardous Materials

Store hazardous materials (oil, gas, etc.) inside your building, or provide cover and containment. Never store near a stormwater drain.

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Only Rain in Drains

Never wash or allow pollutants like soap, mop, water, or oil into storm drains.

Other BMPs are specific to the types of activities that occur at your site. The Department of Ecology provides information on business activity-specific BMPs. Visit the Source Control BMP Library for more information.

3. What are some common stormwater pollution sources?

Some common stormwater pollution sources can include:

Improper outdoor storage of paint, chemical products, erodible materials, garbage and waste liquids like used cooking or motor oil.
Outdoor activities that produce wastewater, including vehicle or equipment washing.
Contractors hired to come clean, make repairs, or perform construction activities can generate waste or polluted wastewater.

4. Which businesses are part of the Stormwater Source Control Program?: Redmond has identified approximately 550 commercial, institutional, and industrial properties that conduct activities that may (or do) generate pollutants that could come in contact with rainwater and impact groundwater or surface waters (creeks, rivers, wetlands, or lakes). This inventory includes public and privately owned properties.

5. When can I expect the City to conduct a Stormwater Source Control inspection?

The Source Control Program will be fully operational by January 1, 2023, in order to meet a federal permit requirement. The City will reach out to you to conduct a stormwater source control inspection at your site. If you would like to discuss stormwater source control BMPs that are appropriate for your site before that time, please contact the Program Administrator listed on this site: https://www.redmond.gov/1748/Stormwater-Source-Control-SSC-Program

6. What happens during a source control inspection?: During a source control visit, the City of Redmond inspector will walk the exterior of your business or property (with you), review your spill plan and spill kit, and observe how your business stores materials or conducts outdoor activities. The inspector may ask to see the interior of your building (e.g., to confirm that there is no way for materials inside can come in contact with rainwater) so please be prepared to tour the interior of your building as well. The inspector will summarize any findings in an inspection report (which you will receive).

7. How long does a source control inspection take?: Typically, the stormwater source control inspection will take one hour. Please plan to be available for the whole visit.

8. How can I prepare for a source control inspection?

At all times, keep your site clean and remove any possible pollution sources that could come in contact with rainwater. Store all hazardous materials indoors or provide cover and containment. Close dumpster lids.
Review and update your spill plan. Make sure your spill kit is fully stocked.
Identify and implement source control BMPs that make sense for your location.
- Visit the Department of Ecology 2019SWMMWW - Volume IV (wa.gov) for more information information on business activity-specific BMPs.

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Street Sweeping

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1. How does street sweeping benefit our community?

Street Sweeper in the Fall The City of Redmond conducts regular street sweeping to provide two main benefits. First, the removal of paper, leaves and other visible debris that collects in gutters can prevent localized flooding during heavy rains.

Second, street sweeping removes metal particles and other hazardous waste products left by passing vehicles. Although they are virtually invisible, these particles can be extremely harmful to fish and other wildlife if they reach our streams and lakes. Street sweeping is an effective method of removing both the large and microscopic pollutants that collect on city streets and serves as one of our Best Management Practices (BMP) to control and improve water quality.

2. When does street sweeping occur?

Back of a street sweeper

Residential sweeping is performed on a quarterly basis. It is also provided after heavy wind events, and extra sweeping is performed during fall leaf season. Arterial and bike lane sweeping occurs every two weeks throughout the city. Once the arterials and bike lanes are swept, staff go back to the residential streets and sweep the community residential neighborhoods, as needed.

3. How can I help the street sweepers?

Residents play an important role in keeping streets clean and safe. We ask the public to clear leaves from storm drains near their property - especially during autumn - using a hand rake and broom. In addition, keeping the roadway in front of your house free of large objects and obstructions is the best way to assist street sweeping crews in their clean-up efforts.

Additional Help

Do not place landscape debris (leaves, weeds, branches) in the street gutter lines. If you hire a landscape company or gardener, please direct them to keep landscape debris out of the street.
Remove large sticks and branches from the roadway in front of your house. They will clog and jam the sweeper's operating system.
Remove grass or weeds that grow in the gutter cracks. This will reduce the grass and weeds catching debris in front of your house and will improve water runoff during rainstorms.
Report abandoned autos to the City's Police Department at 425-556-2500. Unless posted with parking timeframes, street front parking is limited to 24 hours for all vehicles (RMC 10.52.110).
Properly trim your street trees to no less than 10 feet height so the sweeper can clean next to the curb. If you need to prune your trees, there is no permit required. However, if pruning will impact the right-of-way, a permit may be required. For more information on tree maintenance, visit the city's Tree Cutting webpage.
Organize or participate in neighborhood cleanups.

4. Why wasn't street sweeping completed in front of my house?

Flyer about the importance of pruning vegetation for street sweepers There are many reasons why the sweeper may not have been able to remove debris from your street. Most often, it is due to items blocking the roadway such as:

Basketball Hoops
Bicycles
Cars
Refuse Containers
Toys

Vehicles parked too close to each other for the sweeper to maneuver between them is another cause.

Vegetation

Low-hanging trees and shrubs can also prevent sweepers from cleaning in front of your house. If this is a problem in front of your home, please prune back the vegetation and branches so that the sweeper will not hit or run into it. Vegetation should be pruned to no less than 10 feet above the street areas. If this presents an issue, you may receive a door tag similar to the one pictured.

5. Why does the City provide limited public notification of street cleaning schedules?

Although some street repaving projects and roadway construction projects provide letters to residents about an anticipated work schedule, the City does not currently have the tools to provide citywide time-certain information about our street sweeping schedule. Any attempt to provide a schedule online or through the mail would almost certainly prove frustrating to residents, because too many factors beyond our control result in delays to our street sweeping schedule.

The following factors frequently disrupt our street cleaning schedule:

Weather - heavy rainfall, wind storm, snow and ice
Equipment breaks down
Parked cars on both sides of the street
Garbage collection schedules and garbage cans placed in the street throughout neighborhoods
Overhanging tree limbs that prohibit our crews from getting to the curb to clean a street - sometimes overhanging tree limbs prohibit our equipment from accessing a street
Employee emergencies - unexpected absences due to illness, family emergencies, or other emergencies

Additional Information

For more information or to report a street sweeping concern or hazard, please call 425-556-2800.

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Tourism Grant - Important Information

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1. Eligibility

Each applicant will fully define the service to be provided or the project to be implemented within their grant application. The project must comply with state statutes and City ordinances governing the use of Tourism Promotion Program funds.

To be considered for funding, requests must be used for one of the following purposed (RCW 67.28.1816):

Tourism marketing
Marketing and operations of special events and festivals designed to attract tourists
Operations of tourism-related facilities owned or operated by nonprofit organizations as defined by the IRC 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(6). Proof of nonprofit status will be required.

Note: Capital purchases or improvements are not an allowable use except for City owned and/or Public Facilities District owned tourism-related facilities.

The City of Redmond’s Tourism Matching Grants Program accepts applications from any public or private organization with the demonstrated ability to accomplish the proposed project(s) that meet the fund requirements. The tourism program annually awards tourism grants in support of special events, sports tournaments, festivals, and tourism promotions—publicly and privately sponsored. Entities that may qualify for the grants include:

Business organizations
Community organizations
Cultural organizations
Educational organizations
Entertainment organizations
Galleries
Heritage organizations
Historical organizations
Museums
Sports organizations
Visitor information bureaus

Eligibility of sponsors and projects is defined broadly to encourage wide participation and innovative proposals.

2. Project Evaluation and Funding Criteria

The applicant will explain how the project meets the criteria developed by the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee and adopted by the Redmond City Council.

Tourism Promotion
Meet the basic state requirements for tourism promotion? Promote a positive image for the City? Promote the City as a destination place? Attract visitors, build new audiences, and encourage tourist expansion? Increase awareness of the City’s amenities, history, facilities, and natural environment? Support regional tourism planning?

Benefit to the Community
How will this project/event benefit the residents of Redmond? Does this project benefit the overall community, rather than specific segment or interest?

Innovation
Is this project/event unusual or unique? Does it move an existing program in a new direction?

Community Support
Does the project/event have broad-based community appeal or support? What is the evidence of need for this project/event in the City?

Evidence of Partnership
What kind and degree of partnership does the project/event exhibit? Is there volunteer involvement, inter-jurisdictional, corporate, business and/or civic organization support?

Other Funding Sources
What other revenue sources will be used to support this project/event?

Previous and Replacement Funding
Is this funding request for a new project/event or to continue or expand on-going project/event?

Scale of Project
Is the project of a scale suitable for this funding program? (i.e. scale should be of a size to have an impact on increasing overnight stays and/or generate local business revenue, location could be near multiple businesses that would benefit from the project)

3. Weighted Scoring of Grant Applicants

The City reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to fund or not fund any particular project or program for which an application is submitted. The determination of whether to fund a particular project or program will be based upon a number of factors, including but not limited to: the ability of the program or project to promote tourism in the city, the relative merits of the project or program compared to the applications and the overall availability of funding. The City is the sole judge of its obligation to fund any particular project or program regardless of its merits under these factors.

Applicants may review the current grant applicant weighted scoring matrix the City uses to help score grant applications.

4. Project Budget

The project budget outlined within the application will include a description of the items needed to complete the project, the amount of City funds requested, the applicant’s other revenue sources for this project, and the total cost of the project.

Grants will only be awarded based on the proof of paid expenses at the completion of the project that meet the allowable expense requirements. In addition, grant amounts paid cannot exceed more than 50% of the cost of the project (proof of project expenses in two times the amount of the grant will be required upon project completion). The minimum awarded amount is $1,000.

5. Memorandum of Understanding - City Contract

Each applicant selected for funding will be required to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Redmond. The Memorandum of Understanding will cover:

Definition of eligible costs
Legal requirements
Limits of City liability
Project goals
Specification of payment procedures

6. Reporting - Project Summary Report

As a contractual condition, each funded project applicant must submit a final report and paid invoices with backup receipts at the end of the project, and may be required to submit periodic progress reports during the course of the project.

The Project Summary Report requires the grantee to report the actual number of people traveling for business or pleasure on a trip in any of the following situations:

Travel away from their place of residence or business and staying overnight in paid accommodations
Travel from another country or state outside of their place of residence or their business
Travel to a place 50 miles or more one way from their place of residence or business for the day or staying overnight

They must also describe how any monies received will result in increases in the number of people traveling for business or pleasure on a trip.

7. Reimbursement

The City will reimburse the applicant upon completion of the project or event if all documents meet the requirements and are turned in by the requested deadlines. Applicants must first incur costs and then invoice the City under guidelines laid out in the Memorandum of Understanding.

As stated under the Project Budget section: Grants will only be awarded based on the proof of paid expenses at the completion of the project that meet the allowable expense requirements. In addition, grant amounts paid cannot exceed more than 50% of the cost of the project (proof of project expenses in two times the amount of the grant will be required upon project completion). The minimum awarded amount is $1,000.

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Utility Billing - General Rate Drivers

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1. What are the water and wastewater rate drivers?

The City of Redmond provides water and wastewater services to our customers. To ensure continued dependability for users, water distribution and wastewater conveyance systems must be maintained, upgraded, and replaced. New facilities must also be provided as additional demands are made on these systems. The cost of providing these services is recovered through connection charges and rates. More customers means lower rates per customer.

Approximately 65% of the water consumed by customers in Redmond is purchased from Cascade Water Alliance with the remainder coming from the City's own wells. King County’s Wastewater Treatment Division charges Redmond to treat the wastewater generated from our customers. Their wastewater treatment rates are passed directly to our customers. These regional costs make up a significant portion of our customers' water and wastewater charges.

2. Why are Novelty Hill water and wastewater rates different from City of Redmond rates?: The Novelty Hill service area is operated as an independent utility from the City of Redmond service area. All utility rates are developed through an analysis of the costs to operate and maintain the system, as well as the cost for replacement of aging infrastructure, and then those costs are shared between the rate payers. The Novelty Hill system assets and number of rate payers are a lot different from the City of Redmond systems. Some notable differences between the two systems are that the Novelty Hill service area can only receive water from the Cascade Water Alliance supply, rather than having an independent well supply like the City system. The wastewater system for the Novelty Hill service area must also convey wastewater a longer distance to connect to the King County system, due to its location.

3. What factors contribute to increases in water and wastewater rates?

Several factors contributed to increases to rates:

Future replacement of water and wastewater infrastructure
The increased wholesale price of water from the Cascade Water Alliance
Inflationary increases in operating and maintenance costs
King County wastewater treatment costs are going up the system faces inflationary costs, new regulatory requirements, and the need to replace the regional system’s aging infrastructure

4. What are the stormwater rate drivers?

The stormwater rate covers the City's costs to provide stormwater services to customers. Each developed parcel in the City is subject to the stormwater utility charge. Drainage from most properties enters or impacts the City stormwater system in some manner. Vehicles traveling to those parcels impact stormwater on the City streets. Stormwater facilities, which include pipes and catch basins in City streets and treatment and flow control facilities require continual maintenance and improvement.

The stormwater utility supports capital improvement projects for flood control, erosion, conveyance improvements, and regional water quality or detention facilities. The utility also monitors and improves the health of local streams, constructs habitat improvement projects, and responds to State and Federal regulatory and permitting requirements. The cost to finance these services is recovered through user fees and rates.

5. What factors contribute to increases in stormwater rates?: Increasing regulatory requirements, inflationary increases to operation and maintenance costs, along with the need to replace aging infrastructure all contribute to the need to increase stormwater rates.

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Utility Billing - Novelty Hill Rates

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1. What are the water and wastewater rate drivers?: The City of Redmond provides water and wastewater services to our customers. To assure continued dependability for users, these distribution systems must be maintained, upgraded and replaced. New facilities must also be provided as additional demands are made on these systems. The cost of providing these services is recovered through user fees and rates.

2. What are the regional costs of water and wastewater services?

Two regional costs make up a significant portion of our customers' water and wastewater charges:

Purchased Water - 100% of the water consumed by Novelty Hill customers is purchased from Cascade Water Alliance.
Wastewater Treatment - King County Metro charges Redmond to treat the wastewater generated from our customers. Their wastewater treatment rates are passed directly to our customers.

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Wastewater

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1. How does my wastewater get into the City of Redmond’s sewer?: Your home's wastewater enters the City’s sewer main (a large pipe often running under the street) via a smaller pipe known as a lateral or side sewer that extends from your home, across your property. You are responsible for maintenance of this lateral from your home to the City's main line.

2. How close to my lateral sewer pipe can I plant trees?: Depending on the species of tree, the safe distance from your lateral sewer pipe varies. Planting appropriate types of trees is of critical importance. It is unlawful to plant within thirty feet of any public or private sewer any willow, poplar, cottonwood, soft maple, gum tree, or any other tree or shrub whose roots are likely to enter and obstruct the flow of wastewater.

3. Can I flush wipes (cleaning, facial, or baby wipes) down the toilet even if they're labeled "flushable"?: The City of Redmond recommends not flushing any type of wipe (flushable or un-flushable). These products, even those labeled flushable should be placed in the garbage.

4. What can I do to prevent sanitary sewer back-ups?: Never flush any of the following items down your toilet: disposable diapers, sanitary napkins, bandages, rags, paper towels, pre-moistened cleaning wipes, and plastics bags. Anything that will not completely dissolve can cause a back-up.

5. What causes a sewer to back-up?

Most sewer backups happen because the line is plugged with debris. Typical solids that build up in the pipe and cause backups are fats, oil, grease (FOG), dirt, hair, bones, sanitary products, paper towels, kitty litter, diapers, broken dishware, garbage, eggshells, coffee grounds, and concrete.

Tree roots can also cause backups. Tree roots are attracted to wastewater lines because of the waters' warm temperature and nutrients. Roots can infiltrate the pipe system and clog wastewater flow.

6. Can I plant over manholes or clean outs in my yard?: No. Manholes and cleanouts need to remain uncovered and in good working condition to allow access to the wastewater system to clear blockages, should they occur.

7. What causes sewer odors in my home?: If you experience sewer odors in your home, you may have a drain trap with a dry water seal. This usually occurs in the lower levels of a home in floor drains which are not used very often. Pour one gallon of water in the drain and this should rectify the odor issue.

8. What should I do if I have a sewer back-up?

Call the City of Redmond Customer Service during business hours, or Redmond Police after hours and they will contact staff on-call with your information.

Wastewater Maintenance staff will assess the back-up and determine if the blockage is in the City wastewater main or your lateral sewer pipe. The City is not able to reimburse fees incurred by customers who hire a private sewer service or plumber first and then discover the problem is caused by a City main blockage.

9. How can I find out if there is a wastewater utility easement on my property and what activities are permitted within that area?: Call the City of Redmond Customer Service for more information, or click on the Contact Us button.

10. I have a grinder or STEP (Septic Tank Effluent Pumping) system. How do these systems work? Is there anything else I should know?

Grinder and STEP Systems are low pressure sewer systems. They consist of a control panel, pump, holding tank, and a small diameter pressurized pipe called a force main. These components are located on your property. Wastewater from your home is collected, stored, and then pumped through the force main into the City’s wastewater system.

These systems will not work if there is a power outage. The pump will not be able to empty the holding tank. Using bath and kitchen facilities during these periods may result in a sewage backup onto your property.

11. How can I tell that I have a problem with my plumbing?: You will know you have a problem with your plumbing when fixtures do not drain; sewage backs-up into bathtubs, showers or toilets; or if sewage seeps-up from the sewer cleanout pipe next to your home.

12. Where do the majority of sewer back-ups occur?: The majority of sewer back-ups are the result of a blockage in the sewer lateral which connects your home to the City's sewer main. Sewage will overflow out of the lowest sewer opening in the home (i.e., downstairs shower).

13. Will the City "unclog" my lateral sewer pipe?: Homeowners are responsible for unclogging blockages that occur in the sewer lateral located between their home and the City sewer main. The City will clear any blockage that occurs in the main in the street or utility easement.

14. What are those City of Redmond Wastewater trucks doing in my street?: City of Redmond Wastewater Maintenance staff have implemented a preventative maintenance program involving cleaning and closed circuit television inspection of the entire wastewater system to reduce the risk of sanitary sewer overflows.

15. Who do I contact if I need work performed on my lateral sewer pipe?: For your convenience, the City has a prepared list of licensed contractors able to perform work on your lateral sewer line. This list is for reference only; the City makes no recommendations as to whom you should hire to complete you work.

16. How can I determine where my lateral sewer pipe is located?: One of the best ways to find your lateral sewer pipe is to refer to the as-built documents you likely received when you purchased your home. If you don't have these documents, contact the City of Redmond Customer Service and request Development Services.

17. Who do I contact if a back-up in the City’s sewer main has caused damage to my property?: Call City of Redmond Customer Service.

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Parking

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Tourism Grant - Important Information

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Utility Billing - Novelty Hill Rates

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Wastewater