Frequently Asked Questions

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

The Fire Department does not teach classes at this time. 

• Construction site runoff control
• Illicit (illegal) discharge detection and elimination
• Pollution prevention / good housekeeping
• Post-construction runoff control
• Public Education and Outreach
• Public participation / involvement

Please report outages to 360-417-4726. 

You can request notification of planned outages by completing a Life Support Power Outage Notification form - please visit the Light Operations page for further information and a link to the form.

Please call 360-808- 2613 for information on electrical permits and inspections. You may also call this number to schedule an electrical inspection - please be sure to have your permit number or job address, or both, and the type of inspection needed.

Trees that are on private property are the responsibility of the property owner.  If the tree work is dangerous due to the vicinity of power lines, our Line Crews will coordinate with tree trimmers to drop the service at no charge to you, so that you or your hired arborist can do the work safely.

Email the following information and attach items listed below to Customer Service at utilities@cityofpa.us:

• Signed Rental or Lease Agreement with physical address (if you rent).
• Settlement Statement with physical address (if you have purchased).
• Last 4 digits of SSN# and Photo ID of all renters or property owners.
• Mailing Address (if different from the service address).
• Contact phone numbers (Personal and Work) for each adult resident.
• Name of employer, if applicable, for each adult resident.
• Date of termination of old service (if applicable).
• Letter of Credit from your previous utility provider. Must be for service within the last two years and may show a maximum of one late payment in any 12-month period or you will be required to pay a $250 Security Deposit (House) or $125 Security Deposit (Apartment).

In most cases, utility service can be made available the same day if you apply before 12:00PM.

Meters must be accessible to meter readers at all times.

A $25 connect charge will appear on your first bill.

For residential solid waste services, please fill out and return the Solid Waste Services Request and Change Form.

Yes, you can pay online or over the phone.  For more details, click here.

Yes, please fill out the Budget Billing Plan Application and email it to Customer Service at utilities@cityofpa.us. The City will contact you regarding the budget billing amount, or you may call Customer Service at 360-457-0411 ahead of your request and we will inform you of the budget bill amount. Please note that each June is the settle up month, where the City bills for the actual amount due after a year of budget billing. You may owe the City more than your regularly budgeted amount or you may be owed a refund depending on what charges you actually accrued while on the Budget Billing Program.

If you are unable to pay your utility bill by the due date, please call Customer Service at 360-457-0411 to discuss next steps. A payment plan may be set up to bring your account current and keep your services from being disconnected.

If money is tight and you need a little help with paying for utilities, look into the City's Utility Discount Application or contact one of the several Local Resources (PDF) who may be able to provide assistance.

Click here to view the City's flyer regarding financial assistance available by local agencies for utility, rental and mortgage relief.

The City offers a conservation program that may assist in helping you keep your costs down. Please visit the Conservation page or call 360-417-4718. 

Solid Waste (Garbage) offers different levels of service that may cost you less. 

For low income customers, the City offers financial assistance by filling out and submitting a Utility Discount Application. 

For more details or questions, please call Customer Service at 360-457-0411.

The City of Port Angeles partnered with Washington State to provide more streamlined business licensing services. This new program replaces the City’s specialty license program, which included 15 different licenses with unique regulations and fees, with a more efficient and user-friendly way to manage business licensing. Now, businesses in Port Angeles can simultaneously apply for or renew their Washington State Business License and City of Port Angeles Endorsement, along with endorsements from hundreds of other participating cities from across the state. Applicants will receive one Business License from the State, which includes their city endorsement(s). 

A city endorsement is required for businesses operating in cities that have partnered with the Washington State Department of Revenue Business Licensing Service (BLS). It serves as a business license for those cities and is issued as an endorsement attached to your state business license. Those wishing to conduct business in multiple cities may obtain multiple endorsements through BLS.

Any individual or entity located in or conducting business in the city limits of Port Angeles is required to obtain a Port Angeles City Endorsement on their Washington State Business License.

Businesses must obtain a City of Port Angeles endorsement on their Washington State Business License in accordance with the following timelines:

• New Businesses: Starting June 17, 2025, any new business must apply for both a Washington State Business License and Port Angeles City Endorsement. This can be done simultaneously through the Washington State Department of Revenue Business Licensing Service (BLS). An application can be filed online using My DOR, or by mail using the paper application form.
• Existing Businesses: If you already have a Washington State Business License and need to add a city endorsement, you can do so online at the time of license renewal. No action is needed until that time.

Yes. The Washington State Department of Revenue (DOR) issues a “Uniform Business Identification” (UBI) number as part of the state business license. The State UBI registers a business entity for state tax purposes and is mandatory prior to obtaining a City Endorsement on your state business license. Only a City of Port Angeles endorsement on a State business license allows you to do business in Port Angeles.

The annual fee is based on annual gross revenues. Fee exemptions include non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations and businesses with an annual gross revenue of $25,000 or less. See table below. While certain entities, including non-profit organizations, will be exempt from licensing fees, they will still be required to obtain a business license and city endorsement.

Yes, any individual or entity doing business in city limits is required to obtain a Port Angeles City Endorsement on their Washington State Business License. The state’s Business Licensing Service (BLS) will apply the fee exemption based on the information provided during the application process.

Yes. Short-Term Lodging (STL) business licensing is not affected by this new program. Owners and operators of short-term lodging properties and the platforms that promote them must continue to comply with existing licensing and regulatory requirements per Chapters 17.23 and 17.24 of the Port Angeles Municipal Code.

Additionally, small scale activities such as casual garage sales or lemonade stands, are exempt from the business license requirement. If you have a question about exemptions, please contact the City’s Business License Administrator at (360) 417-4924 or businesslicenses@cityofpa.us.

Applications and business data are submitted directly to the Washington State Department of Revenue (DOR). No physical copies of forms or data are held by the City. Only select City staff, who have signed a Confidentiality Agreement with DOR, are granted access to view applications through the secure portal.

Updates, such as to your business name or mailing address, should be reported to the Washington State Business Licensing Service (BLS) online or sent by mail using the Business Information Change Form.  

The City Endorsement on your State Business License is unique and non-transferrable. The new owner must apply for a new Washington State Business License with City Endorsement.

We understand this can sometimes happen due to timing, relocations, or administrative oversights, and we are happy to assist you in getting back on track. If your license has lapsed, the City will send you an informational notice. You must renew your license with the State as soon as possible.

State business licenses with city endorsements must be renewed annually. An expiration date can be found in the upper right-hand corner of your license. Renewals are due before the expiration date and can be done online or filed by mail.

Please contact the Washington State Business Licensing Service (BLS) by phone at (360) 705-6705 to have a paper copy of your renewal form, with the itemized fees for your accounts, mailed to the mailing address on file.

Operating without a valid business license constitutes a violation of the Port Angeles Municipal Code Chapter 5.04.050 and 5.06.030. Our goal is to work with you toward voluntary compliance, and we are happy to work with you to get you back on track.

Failure to achieve compliance may result in a notice of violation, and/or daily fines. Pursuant to PAMC 2.90, violations and penalties may be imposed as follows:

Short-Term Lodging Business Licenses are not impacted by this new program. Owners and operators of short-term lodging properties, and the platforms that promote them, must continue to comply with existing licensing and regulatory requirements per Chapters 17.23 and 17.24 of the Port Angeles Municipal Code.  

Learn more and apply for a Short-Term Lodging Business License.

Short-Term Lodging Business Licenses are not impacted by this new program. Owners and operators of short-term lodging properties, and the platforms that promote them, must continue to comply with existing licensing and regulatory requirements per Chapters 17.23 and 17.24 of the Port Angeles Municipal Code.  

Learn more and apply for a Short-Term Lodging Business License.

Please contact the Department of Revenue’s Business Licensing Service (BLS) at (360) 705-6741.

You can visit the DOR website to look up a business or reseller permit.

The City provides a map that identifies properties and their zoning districts. Click here to access the map. You will be prompted to read a disclaimer, then check a box on the screen agreeing to the terms and conditions of the disclaimer. Click OK. Select the Layer List in the menu on the left and select the Planning layer category to turn on the City zoning layer. You can view instructions on how to use the map here.

The requirements for each zone are contained in Title 17 of the Port Angeles Municipal Code. Rezones of property within the City may not immediately be reflected on the online zoning map upon taking effect. 

The approximate locations of property lines for parcels in the City are depicted on the Multi Use Map. This map is for illustrative purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for accurate location of property lines in the field by a qualified professional. The definitive location of property lines must be determined through a survey of the property's legal boundaries. If a survey has been conducted for your property in the past, the survey may be contained in a title report for the property, or be recorded with the Clallam County Auditor’s Office. Survey markers indicating the location of property corners may be present on the ground. If you cannot locate an existing survey of your property, it may be helpful to search the Auditor's website for recorded surveys of neighboring properties to see if they depict any of your property's boundaries. 

Title 17 of the Port Angeles Municipal Code determines what uses can be permitted by right or conditionally in each of the City's zones. If you know which zone your property is located in, please navigate to the chapter in Title 17 PAMC dedicated to that zone for a list of permitted uses. Chapter 17.03 PAMC contains a list of zones in the City and identifies the corresponding chapter containing applicable regulations. 

Some uses are only permitted as accessory uses. For a use to qualify as an accessory use, it must be both subordinate and incidental to the principal use of the property. A use is to be considered accessory when it occupies less than 50 percent of a building's or lot's total square footage. There is no list of prohibited uses in Title 17 PAMC. If a use is not listed as permitted in a zone, either by right or conditionally, the use is considered to be prohibited in that zone. 

Click here for Short-Term Rental FAQs.

This depends on many factors, including the size of your lot, the zone in which your property is located, the location of the addition, and available utility capacity. There is no single size limit that can be generalized, since each development would need to account for the unique conditions of the site. However, no addition may cause the property to exceed the maximum site coverage allowed in the zone. Site coverage is the amount of impervious surface on a parcel, including structures, paved driveways, sidewalks, patios, and other impervious surfaces. The maximum allowable site coverage differs by zone. Please refer to the appropriate chapter applicable to your zone in Title 17 of the Port Angeles Municipal Code to determine the maximum site coverage standard applicable to development on your property. In addition to ensuring that the proposed addition will not cause the maximum allowable site coverage to be exceeded, the addition must meet all other applicable dimensional and design standards applicable to the property. Setback information by zone is available through the following links: 

• R7 Zone
• R9 Zone
• R11 Zone 
• RMD Zone 
• RHD Zone

All building additions require that a building permit be obtained. Building permit application forms are available at https://www.cityofpa.us/992/Building-Permits. You may find the guidance document available at https://cityofpa.us/DocumentCenter/View/8351/Making-a-Residential-Site-Plan helpful when preparing a site plan. If you have questions about building code requirements, the Building Division can be contacted using the contact information available at https://www.cityofpa.us/369/Building.

You may need a permit to trim or remove trees on your property. Before commencing with any work, please ensure that the trees you want to trim or remove are not located in publicly owned right-of-way, within an environmentally sensitive or critical area, or within a designated buffer for a sensitive area such as a wetland, the marine bluff, stream ravine, or stream corridor. 

If the tree you are concerned with is located in the public right-of-way, it is considered a street tree and is subject to the regulations of Chapter 11.13 PAMC. More information about the pruning or removal of street trees is available here. 

You can locate the approximate boundaries of your property using the City’s Multi Use Map available here. Instructions for using the map tool can be viewed here. This map is for illustrative purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for accurate location of property lines in the field by a qualified professional. 

All vegetation management activity in any environmentally sensitive area must comply with the standards of Chapter 15.20 PAMC and may only occur following the issuance of an Environmentally Sensitive Area Permit or Development Exception. Tree topping is prohibited in environmentally sensitive areas.  

Before removing any tree or other vegetation located within the boundaries of private property, please be sure that the vegetation is not part of required landscaping for the site. 

This depends on several factors, including which zone your home is located in. Some residential zones allow for the establishment of home occupations through an administrative conditional use permit process. With small-scale, residence-based business activity becoming more popular in the form of online retail stores, farmers market vendors, or small artisan craft operations, many Port Angeles residents are interested in undertaking small business activity in their homes. 

If you are interested in running a small business from your residence, you may need a permit authorizing the use. Some home occupations, listed in Section 17.17.030 PAMC, are considered exempt from the permit requirements applicable to other home occupations. Please read Chapter 17.17 PAMC to understand the City’s regulations applicable to an occupation or business undertaken within a dwelling unit located in a residential zone. If you are not sure whether your proposed business qualifies as a home occupation, please contact City Staff to discuss your venture and be prepared to provide details of its operation. If the business activity cannot be classified as a home occupation, it may be prohibited as a primary or accessory use in your zone. 

What is an environmentally sensitive area? 

All environmentally sensitive areas are critical areas, but not all critical areas are considered environmentally sensitive areas for the purpose of determining which regulations apply. Critical areas include environmentally sensitive areas, wetlands, shorelines, beaches and associated coastal drift processes,  lands subject to the Port Angeles Shoreline Master Program, and their associated buffers. Environmentally sensitive areas include any of the following areas and their associated buffers: 

1. Aquifer recharge areas;

2. Streams or stream corridors;

3. Frequently flooded areas; 

4. Geologically hazardous areas, including erosion hazard areas, landslide hazard areas, and seismic hazard areas;

5. Habitat areas for priority species and species of concern; and

6. Locally unique features, including ravines, marine bluffs, and beaches and associated coastal drift processes.

What regulations apply in environmentally sensitive areas? 

All development proposed within or near an environmentally sensitive area is subject to the regulations and requirements of Chapter 15.20 of the Port Angeles Municipal Code, which is intended to protect environmentally sensitive areas in the City of Port Angeles. 

Section 15.20.040 PAMC explains how the location of an environmentally sensitive area must be determined. A field investigation performed by a qualified professional is the only way to determine environmentally sensitive area boundaries with certainty. 

What regulations apply in other types of critical areas?  

Other types of critical areas are subject to distinct regulations contained in Title 15 PAMC, as follows: 

• Shorelines: Chapter 15.08 PAMC, which contains the Shoreline Master Program
• Areas of Special Flood Hazard: Chapter 15.12 PAMC
• Wetlands: Chapter 15.24 PAMC

Reminder: Please call 811 before you dig, regardless of the situation.

The Port Angeles Municipal Code (PAMC) allows for a park model unit to be placed on a lot as an alternative to a traditional detached accessory dwelling unit in all zones where accessory dwelling units are an allowed accessory use, subject to certain criteria.  Ordinance No. 3710, amending portions of Title 17 PAMC, is available here and contains standards that all park model units must meet. These new standards applicable to park model units were adopted by the City Council on March 21, 2023. Prior to the adoption of Ordinance No. 3710, park model manufactured homes were prohibited in most locations in the City per Section 17.96.025 PAMC. Now, park models can be permitted as an alternative to a detached accessory dwelling unit in residential zones per the amended Section 17.21.020 PAMC, if all applicable state and local requirements are met.

The amended Section 17.21.020 PAMC contains nine development standards that all park models must meet in order to qualify as an acceptable alternative to a traditional accessory dwelling unit in the City. Any park model must be shown to comply with the requirements of Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Chapter 296-150P in order to be considered by the City as compliant with the new PAMC design standards applicable to park models. The City does not administer the standards contained in WAC Chapter 296-150P. Please contact the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries if you have any questions about the standards of WAC Chapter 296-150P. 

A building permit is required to enable the placement of a park model unit on a property. Building permit application forms are available at https://www.cityofpa.us/992/Building-Permits. You may find the guidance document available at https://cityofpa.us/DocumentCenter/View/8351/Making-a-Residential-Site-Plan helpful when preparing a site plan. If you have questions about building code requirements, the Building Division can be contacted using the contact information available at https://www.cityofpa.us/369/Building.

All park model units must be connected to municipal utilities. Standards regarding water, wastewater, and electrical connections are contained in Title 13 PAMC, administered by the Public Works & Utilities Department.

Nuisances are identified in Chapter 8.30 of the Port Angeles Municipal Code. Nuisance complaints should be directed to the Code Enforcement Division of the Port Angeles Police Department. If you would like to notify the Code Enforcement Division of activity or conditions you have observed that can be classified as a nuisance, you can do so by filling out and submitting the Public Nuisance Complaint Form available here. 

A building permit serves to ensure that construction projects comply with local building codes, zoning laws, and safety standards. It helps protect the safety of the occupants by requiring inspections throughout the project to confirm that it meets structural, electrical, plumbing, and fire safety requirements. Building permits also safeguard property values by ensuring that work is done to code, avoiding future complications with selling or financing the property. Additionally, permits provide documentation and accountability, creating a record that future owners or inspectors can rely on to verify that the project was completed safely and legally.

Any structure that measures 120 square feet in area or greater requires a building permit. Structures that do not require a building permit must still meet all setback requirements and other development regulations. Please see item #3 for work exempt from building permits.

Construction of a one-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided that the floor area is not greater than 120 square feet, fences under 6 feet tall, and retaining walls under 4 feet high (or under 2 feet if there is a surcharge). For confirmation, contact the Building Division at 360-417-4817.

Permits are required for most new structures, additions, and significant alterations including fences over 6 feet in height, decks more than 30 inches above ground level, and structures over 120 square feet. Demolition of any structure also requires a permit. For confirmation, contact the Building Division at 360-417-4817.

If a shed is less than 120 square feet, a permit is not required. If the shed is 120 square feet or larger, you must apply for a general building permit. For more information, contact us at permits@cityofpa.us or call 360-417-4817.

Placement requirements depend on the size of the tank, property lines, and nearby structures. For confirmation, please email permits@cityofpa.us or call 360-417-4817. Alternatively, you can contact an inspector directly by emailing inspections@cityofpa.us.

A permit is generally required for any structural, electrical, mechanical, or plumbing changes. However, if you are only replacing existing fixtures, like-for-like (such as swapping out a faucet, p-trap, toilet, or light fixture), a permit is typically not needed. Certain non-structural work may also require a permit, depending on the scope and nature of the project. For confirmation, contact the Building Division at 360-417-4817.

Yes, if the fence is proposed to be over 6 feet tall.

If you start work without a permit, you may face several penalties. These can include fines, which can increase the longer the work continues; and a stop-work order, which halts the project until a permit is obtained. You may also need to pay additional fees for retroactive permitting and inspections to bring the work into compliance. Unpermitted work can also cause issues when selling your property, as it may not meet legal requirements, potentially affecting property value and financing. It's always best to obtain a permit before beginning work to avoid these complications.

Permit applications can be found our website: www.cityofpa.us/988/Permit-Applications. If you're unsure which permit to apply for, please contact us via email at permits@cityofpa.us or by phone at 360-417-4817. Our team is happy to assist you.

Yes, the City of Port Angeles prefers applications to be submitted online. The permit application includes a checklist outlining the required documents, such as site plans, construction drawings, and sometimes engineering details. Be sure to review the checklist to ensure all necessary documents are included. You can access all permit applications here: www.cityofpa.us/988/Permit-Applications. To submit your application, send an email to permits@cityofpa.us.

An OTC permit applies to simple, residential, low-complexity projects that do not require detailed plans or extensive review. These projects involve minor mechanical or plumbing work or other straightforward tasks that comply with standard codes and can be quickly processed.

Examples of OTC Permits:

• Minor Residential Mechanical Work:
  1. HVAC system installations
  2. Mini-split system installations
  3. New kitchen hood installations
• Minor Residential Plumbing Work:
  1. Replacing or installing water heaters
  2. Connecting appliances to water supply lines
  3. Replacing water or sewer lines
• Residential Miscellaneous Work:
  1. Abandoned tank removals
  2. Residential solar panel installations
  3. Roofing and siding replacements
  4. Residential propane tank installations

Please stop by the Community & Economic Development Counter, located at 321 East 5^th Street in Port Angeles. We offer free Wi-Fi and a computer kiosk that you can use to fill out a permit application at City Hall. If you have any questions during the process, feel free to ask our technicians for assistance; we’re happy to help! Our office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Yes, you can apply for a building permit if you are doing the work yourself. In the contractor information section, indicate that you are performing the work. For the project valuation, combine the total cost of materials and double that amount to account for personal labor.

No, you do not need to hire an architect. The City of Port Angeles will accept hand-drawn floor and site plans, provided they meet architectural design criteria and are to scale. When creating your site plan, refer to the Public Use Map Link for a birds-eye view of your property. You can print a photo of your property from the map and add measurements. We recommend using graph paper and a straight edge for accuracy when creating a floor plan and site plan.

Yes, the City of Port Angeles provides a Public Use Map for general use. This interactive map includes information such as sewer line locations, property zoning, and more.

• Access the Public Use Map: Public Use Map Link
• Need Help Using the Map? The city offers a tutorial here: Mapping Tutorial

If you need further assistance, please contact us by emailing permits@cityofpa.us or by calling 360-417-4815.

You can find your tax parcel number by visiting the Clallam County Assessor & Treasurer’s website at https://websrv22.clallam.net/propertyaccess/?cid=0. Search for your property to view your tax parcel number. For further assistance, contact us by emailing permits@cityofpa.us or calling 360-417-4817.

Yes, permit fees can be paid online www.cityofpa.us/866/Permit-Pay). Payment plans are not available; payment of fees is due prior to issuance of the permit.

Fees vary based on project scope, square footage, and valuation. The master fee schedule is available on the City’s website (www.cityofpa.us/1320/Master-Fee-Schedule). You can also call the Building Division at 360-417-4817 for an estimate.

The time required to approve a building permit depends on the project's complexity and whether revisions are needed. If revisions are requested, the review timeline below is on hold.

Typical Review Time Allotted:

• Residential permits: 65 calendar days after payment of permit fees.
• Commercial permits: 65 calendar days after payment of permit fees.
• Over-the-Counter (OTC) permits: 3 business days after payment of permit fees.

For details on what qualifies as an OTC permit, see item #12.

You can check the status of your permit by emailing permits@cityofpa.us or calling 360-417-4815. For faster assistance, please have your permit number readily available.

Revisions may extend the permit review process. The sooner you submit the requested revisions, the sooner we can complete the second review. To avoid additional delays, please ensure your submittal is complete. If you need clarification or have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out by emailing permits@cityofpa.us or calling 360-417-4817.

The City does not offer partial refunds for permit fees once they have been paid. Fees are non-refundable after a permit is issued or an application is processed. These fees cover the cost of review, inspection, and administrative processing, so it’s important to carefully consider your decision before submitting a permit application. If you have any questions about your specific situation, please contact the Permitting Division at permits@cityofpa.us or call 360-417-4817 for guidance.

Permit applications are valid for six months from the date of submission. Issued permits are valid for six months from the date of issuance or the date of the last activity, such as an inspection.

If you need more time to complete your project, you can request an extension. Extensions may be granted for up to 180 days, but you must provide a valid reason for the request. To apply for an extension, please email your request with the necessary details to permits@cityofpa.us

You may begin your project and schedule inspections once your permit has been issued. To schedule an inspection online, please visit our Inspection Requests Portal (www.cityofpa.us/986/Inspection-Requests) and choose the appropriate division. 

 If you’re unsure which division to select, please contact the Permitting Division for assistance: permits@cityofpa.us or 360-417-4817.

Please call 360-808-2613 for information on electrical permits and inspections. You may also call this number to schedule an electrical inspection – when calling, please be sure to have your permit number or job address, or both, and the type of inspection needed.

To pass your inspection, you must ensure that the work follows the approved plans you submitted. If you fail a re-inspection, there is a $95 charge for any subsequent re-inspections. If you have any questions or are unsure about any part of the process, feel free to contact our Permitting Division by emailing permits@cityofpa.us or by calling 360-417-4817. 

You can view the City of Port Angeles's structural design criteria. To explore the adopted building codes, visit the International Code Council's free online resources.

For building code questions, contact our building inspectors by emailing inspections@cityofpa.us. This is a shared inbox, ensuring all inspectors can view and respond to your inquiry promptly.

A Certificate of Occupancy is an official document issued by the City of Port Angeles certifying that a commercial or residential building complies with applicable building codes and zoning regulations. Issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy is required before a building can be occupied or used for its intended purpose.

A Certificate of Occupancy (CofO) is required for all building permits, with exceptions for specific types of work. Permits not requiring a CofO include foundation-only projects, demolition work, plumbing and mechanical systems. For confirmation regarding your specific project, please contact the Permitting Division by emailing permits@cityofpa.us or by calling 360-417-4817.

A CofO ensures that your building meets all safety, structural, and zoning standards. It assures the building is safe for occupants and prevents unauthorized use.

There are two ways to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy:

Issued as part of a Building Permit 

A Certificate of Occupancy is issued once all required inspections for your issued building permit have been successfully completed.  

Submitting a Certificate of Occupancy Permit Application (Building Permit Not Required)

Suppose there has been a change in ownership, or you only need to change the use of the space without performing construction work. In those cases, you must submit a separate application titled "Certificate of Occupancy Permit Application." This application is specifically for situations where a building permit is not required.

For more information, contact us by emailing permits@cityofpa.us or calling 360-417-4815.

Yes, the fees are included as part of your building permit costs. The fees are as follows:

• Certificate of Occupancy – Residential: $190.20
• Certificate of Occupancy – Commercial: $475.50

Occupying a building without a CofO is a violation of the City of Port Angeles' regulations. This can result in fines, penalties, and possible legal action. Please ensure you have a valid CofO before occupying the building.

The time it takes to obtain a CofO depends on the complexity of your project, how quickly your permit is issued, and when final inspections are completed. Plan ahead, by scheduling inspections promptly and ensuring all requirements are met. For more information, please email permits@cityofpa.us or call 360-417-4817.

Once issued, the CofO must be posted in a visible, conspicuous location within the building, such as near the main entrance. It should remain in place for inspection purposes.

If you lose your CofO, contact us by emailing permits@cityofpa.us or calling 360-417-4817 to request a replacement. 

Fingerprinting for employment, identification, or background check purposes is provided Monday through Friday, between the hours of 9 a.m. through 4 p.m. for a fee of $25.

Concealed Pistol Licenses (CPL) are issued by the Port Angeles Police Department for city residents only. Anyone living outside the city limits, but within Clallam County, must contact the Clallam County Sheriff's Office. To apply, complete the entire application form and have a background check that includes fingerprinting. New applications are $49.25. Applications are accepted Monday through Friday, during the hours of 9 a.m. through 4 p.m. Generally, qualified applicants will receive their CPL within two weeks, however the law provides for up to a 30-day delay. Delays are often beyond the department's control so allow sufficient time for processing.

Here is a document created by DOC to help explain a felons firearm restrictions: Felons and firearms 

-Within City limits-

For residential solid waste services, please fill out and send the Solid Waste Services Request and Change Form to Customer Service at utilities@cityofpa.us.

When you start your utility service, look for a 90 gallon green cart at your location. If you cannot find it, contact City Garbage Collection at garbagecollection@cityofpa.us

If you select recycling or yard waste on the form, allow a minimum of 5 business days for your cart(s) to be delivered.

For more details, visit: https://www.cityofpa.us/246/Garbage-Collection

For further assistance or questions, please call Customer Service at 360-457-0411.

-Outside City limits-

Contact County Garbage Collection to set up service: 360-452-7278.

Download and complete the Residential Request and Change Form. Allow a minimum of 5 business days for the change to happen. A change fee is charged (see details on form).

Occasionally we miss a cart, but the most common reason for a missed pickup is that your cart was not out early enough. It must be curbside (or the location we usually pick it up) by 7 a.m. on your collection day. Another cause of missed pickup is incorrect cart placement: too close to a fence, car, or other object, or facing the wrong direction. Allow 4 feet of clearance around your garbage cart (including behind). Overfilled carts (with the lid open) cannot be emptied. For missed collection call the office after 3 p.m. on your collection date. A small fee may apply depending on the circumstance. Please do not wait 2-3 weeks before calling.

No, only the materials in the cart will be removed. You can call garbage collection for an extra pick-up (fees apply). You can take cardboard and other recyclables to the Recycling Center at the Regional Transfer Station located at 3501 W 18th St. Port Angeles, WA 98363.

Yes, you can rent a 300 gallon container for a fee. Call City Garbage Collection at 360-417-4876 for rates and other options.

Contact City Garbage (or Recycling Collection if it is a recycling or yard waste container) and we will come out and replace the lid. Leave the cart out so we can access it.

Contact us at 360-417-4876 or garbagecollection@cityofpa.us

If unusable, you must transport to the Regional Transfer Station (fees apply). We do not have curbside service for bulky items.

You transport your empty refrigerator to the Regional Transfer Station metal pile.  Either the doors must be removed, or it needs to be loaded in a way that allows for quick inspection. The Freon will be removed and the metal will be recycled (fees apply). 

Scrap metal is bailed and household recycling is loaded into a separate trailer; both are shipped to Tacoma for further processing and then is shipped to markets in this country and worldwide. Hazardous waste is shipped to Seattle area for reuse, recycling, or proper disposal. Yard waste is composted on site and sold as Garden Glory Compost. All other waste is compacted and shipped out by truck daily to the railhead in Centralia, and then shipped by train to Roosevelt Landfill in Eastern Washington.

The City Council do not have offices at City Hall but can be reached by email at council@cityofpa.us  Written correspondence can be dropped off at the City Manager's office at City Hall located at  East 5th Street, Port Angeles.

The inspection will focus mostly on outdoor areas however, certain indoor areas will also be inspected.

A qualified representative of your business/site. This is usually an owner or manager who has access to and knowledge of your site and operations.

Typically, once every five years. Certain types of businesses/sites presenting greater risks for impacting stormwater may require more frequent inspections. Illicit Discharge Detection & Elimination (IDDE) complaints made against any business/site may also necessitate additional inspections.

• Yes. Source Control inspections are mandated by the Department of Ecology’s Western Washington Phase II Stormwater Permit S5.C.8 and PAMC 13.63.275 for all businesses/sites listed in Appendix 8 of the Western Washington Phase II Stormwater Permit.

Yes. Once violations have been corrected, a follow-up inspection will be scheduled to ensure they have been properly addressed.

No. The goal of Source Control is not to issue fines or penalties, but to work with you to remediate any shortfalls. The program is new to everyone therefore, informing, educating, and providing technical assistance to businesses/sites is our primary objective. 

If Source Control violations are identified during the initial inspection, you will be issued a Notice of Correction along with a timeline to implement those corrections. Repeated refusal to properly address violations or work with City officials, however, may lead to fines and penalties being imposed, per WWAPHII (S5.C.8.iv) and PAMC 13.63.275.

This is TBD (to be determined). 

Source Control inspections are mandatory, more extensive, and require more preparation and inspection time. PPA inspections are free, voluntary inspections focusing more closely on hazardous waste labeling, storage, disposal, etc. Both inspections are designed to help businesses/sites reduce their polluting impact to our local waterbodies and environment. 

According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, relatively few people will ever encounter a cougar. If you are one of the few who do, be sure to:  

• Stop, pick up small children immediately, and don’t run.  
• Maintain eye contact with the cougar while backing away slowly.  
• Make yourself as large as possible: stand tall, shout, wave your hands and throw anything you have available (water bottle, book). The idea is to convince the cougar that you are not prey, but a potential danger.   
• If the cougar attacks, fight back. Cougars have been driven away by people who have fought back. Be aggressive and try to stay on your feet. Bear spray can also be effective.  

According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, you should do the following if in close contact with a bear:  

• Remain calm and assess the situation. If the bear seems unaware of you, move away quietly when it's not looking in your direction.
• If a bear walks toward you, identify yourself as a human by standing up, waiving your heads and talking to the bear in a low voice.  
• If you cannot safely move away from the bear, scare it away by clapping your hands, stomping your feet and yelling. If you are in a group, stand shoulder-to-shoulder and raise and wave your arms to appear intimidating. 
• Do not run from the bear and do not throw anything at the bear, which the bear could interpret as a threat.  

Chances are, if you find a fawn, or baby deer, alone, it is safe and healthy. According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, doe will often leave her fawn alone for long periods to feed herself and rest. While mom is away, fawns will instinctively lie low and wait for their mother to return.  

Do not touch or relocate a fawn. If it appears weak, ill or injured, please contact the PAPD non-emergency line at (360) 452-4545.  

Visit the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website to learn more about what to do when encountering a fawn or other young animals. 

Please contact the Streets Division of the Public Works & Utilities Department at (360) 417-4800. Crews will be dispatched to the location to remove the deceased wildlife.  

Please call the Port Angeles Police Department non-emergency line: (360) 452-4545. 

You can also report an immediate public safety issue, wildlife violation, or injured or dangerous animals to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Office at (360) 902-2936 or enforcement-web@dfw.wa.gov. 

If you are experiencing an emergency, please call 911. 

Permit-ready plans are pre-approved and thoughtfully designed construction documents for a variety of housing types and configurations. As of November 2023, the City of Port Angeles offers permit-ready plan designs for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU), Duplexes, and Small Lot Homes. All plans have been specifically drafted for Port Angeles’ design standards and zoning requirements. These plans also compliment recent changes to land use codes for commercial zoning districts, which allow for increased infill residential development.  

Both building plans and engineering plans are included as part of the permit-ready plan set.  

The City of Port Angeles is proud to offer Permit-Ready Plans to residents, builders and developers free of charge as part of our commitment to promoting infill housing growth.  

The City of Port Angeles offers four small lot home designs:  

• Single Story, 480 sq ft 
• Single Story, 600 sq ft 
• Single Story, 800 sq ft 
• Two Story, 800 sq ft 

The City of Port Angeles offers three accessory dwelling unit designs:   

• Single Story, 480 sq ft 
• Single Story, 600 sq ft 
• Single Story, 800 sq ft

Yes! We offer a Permit-Ready Townhome Unit Plan with a total footprint of 2543 square feet.  

• Townhome Unit #1, 1198 sq ft 
• Townhome Unit #2, 1345 sq ft

Reduced Wait Times: When embarking on a project, you may need to wait anywhere between 1-4 months for engineers and architects to meticulously prepare your building plans. Permit-ready plans eliminate this waiting period entirely. These plans have already been developed by professionals and are consistent with Port Angeles Municipal Code (PAMC) 17.21 infill design standards.  

Streamlined Permit Approval: With permit-ready plans, you can avoid the potential complications of the standard permit review process, allowing you to start your project sooner. Permit-ready plans have undergone careful examination to ensure compliance with building codes and regulations. This means reduced wait times and an expedited permit approval.  

Cost Savings: Building plans are typically 5% – 20% of total construction costs. With permit-ready plans, both the building and engineering plans are completely free to all residents and builders.   

Yes and no. Modifications can be made, but the plan will no longer be considered “permit-ready.”  

The application process is simple and easy. All applicants will:  

1. Download a permit-ready plan and attached documentation from the City’s website for free. 
2. Submit the documentation, including a Building Permit Application, to the Community & Economic Development Division for review.  
3. The applicant shall receive permit approval with reduced wait times.  

 Please email the City’s Housing Administrator at jboado@cityofpa.us.  

You can also schedule an appointment with a planner by calling 360-797-8616 or visiting our website at www.cityofpa.us/BookAMeeting. 

Please email the City’s Housing Administrator at jboado@cityofpa.us. 

You can also schedule an appointment with a planner by calling 360-797-8616 or visiting our website at www.cityofpa.us/BookAMeeting. 

The Fee Waiver Program is designed to incentivize affordable housing and infill development consistent with the housing needs of the City of Port Angeles. The City has identified and exempted 16 different types of housing and 26 unique fees. By offering this exemption, the City is reducing the barrier of entry for new development to increase the rate new housing units are constructed.

Fees will only be waived for developments within the Port Angeles city limits. 

As part of our commitment to promoting infill housing growth, the City of Port Angeles is proud to offer permit fee waivers for qualifying single-household projects using low-income homeownership programs or single-family households experiencing economic hardship. See the "Waived Fees" and "Economic Hardship Fee Waiver" tabs for more information. 

1. Fees will only be waived for developments within the City Limits of Port Angeles.
2. New Single-Family Residences or the Remodel, Addition, or Repair of an Existing Single-Family Residence may be eligible for a permit fee waiver if the following criteria are met:

a. Applicant must own the property or the existing residence.

b. Applicant must be experiencing Economic Hardship, defined under Port Angeles Municipal Code (PAMC) 17.08.030.

c. Owner must submit to Community and Economic Development (CED) a complete Economic Hardship Fee Waiver Application on a form provided by CED.

d. Applicant must be the owner of the property for two years following the issuance of the fee waiver. If the house sells prior to two years, the applicant shall reimburse the City. The applicant shall enter into a contract with the City.

e. This program ends on December 31, 2029.

3. New Projects - Types of housing eligible for a fee waiver:

a. Developed pursuant to Port Angeles Municipal Code (PAMC) Table 17.20.020: Dwelling Units and Supportive Housing in Commercial zones, 17.21 Residential Infill Design Standards,17.22 Commercial and Multifamily Design Standards (Multifamily residential allowed uses only), or 17.46 Property Tax Exemptions for Multi-family housing; AND

b. Are one of the following:

i. Projects utilizing the City Permit Ready Plans

ii. Accessory Dwelling Unit

iii. Duplex

iv. Triplex

v. Fourplex

vi. Cottage Housing

vii. Caretaker Unit

viii. Apartment Complex

ix. Townhomes

x. Multifamily Housing

xi. Group Home

xii. Permanent Supportive Housing

xiii. Transitional Housing

xiv. Emergency Housing,

xv. Adult Family Homes.

xvi. Low-Income Homeownership Programs (LIHP), defined as a single household dwellings constructed through a recognized nonprofit, local, state, or federal self-help or sweat equity program whereby labor participation is required, and whose income at eligibility is 80% or below of the Area Median Income (AMI) for Clallam County as published by the program regulatory body. LIHP projects and affordable housing projects, both rental and homeownership, constructed through a recognized nonprofit, local, state, or federal affordable housing provider shall be exempt from the contract and Notice-To-Title (NTT) provisions of Section 3c and 3d below. Nonprofit, local, State, or federal LIHP projects shallbe exempt from paying the pre-application fee for fee waiver application.

1. Building Permit Fees
2. Review Fees for Building Plans, Fire Plans, Planning Plans, and Public Works Siting Plans
3. Additional hourly rate fees
4. Fire Development Fees
5. Building and Fire permit renewal fees
6. Hearing Examiner Fees for zoning reclassifications, eligible residential and duplex variances, binding site plan improvement plans, multifamily variances, preliminary subdivisions, overlay zones only as they relate to eligible development listed above, and any other hourly hearings as it relates to eligible development subject to Community and Economic Development Director Determination.
7. Archeological review fees
8. Boundary line adjustment fees
9. Conditional use permits fees
10. SEPA Environmental Checklist Review
11. NEPA
12. Adoption of previous NEPA/SEPA Documents
13. Land Use Verification
14. Locate Notice Review
15. Lot Confirmation
16. Overlay Zones
17. Parking Variance
18. Short Plats, Plats, Binding Site Plans
19. Temporary Use Permit
20. Zoning Lot Covenant
21. Electric Utility Service Charges: Electrical residential work permits and fees, including inspections and applicable taxes.
22. Residential new water system development charges*
23. Sewer Connection Permits/charges for eligible development*
24. Storm Sewer/Drain Connection Charges for eligible development*
25. Sewer System Development Charges for eligible development*
26. Electrical Permits for eligible development

*Applicants will still be responsible for utility extensions where applicable.

To qualify for the fee waiver, the Developer must:

1. Submit to the Department of Community & Economic Development (CED) a completed Permit Fee Waiver Application on a form provided by CED.
2. A fee waiver meeting will be required for all new developments with more than six housing units or otherwise determined based on project complexity. If a meeting is required, the applicant will pay the pre-application fee. If the applicant submits the proposal and the project is deemed applicable and approved for the fee waiver, the applicant will be reimbursed the pre-application fee at the time of building permit approval
3. Enter into a contract with the City of Port Angeles, agreeing that the unit(s) will not be used for any Short-Term Rental, Bed and Breakfast, Hotel, Motel, or any similar Lodging Type Use, and on such other terms and conditions as directed by CED.
   1. Execute a Notice-to-Title (NTT) to be filed with the Clallam County Auditor’s Office at the expense of the owner/applicant. The NTT will be valid for 10 years.

At a minimum, the contract provisions will include:

1. A detailed project description for the eligible development, which will be binding via the contract. Changes to the proposal may result in permit fees if the use is no longer eligible. If the use changes to a different eligible development, a revised contract is required.
2. An exhibit to include the preliminary detailed site plan. The contract may be required to be amended if the site plan changes. If the proposed site plan changes to an ineligible development, the contract is void and the applicant must pay any waived permit fees.
3. In the event the owner/applicant requests the restriction to be removed, the applicant will pay 1.5x the permit fee and work with the City to remove the NTT at the owner/applicant's expense.
4. The restriction and NTT will only be removed if the proposed use is consistent with current permitted uses, development, and other applicable regulations.
5. Re-inspection fees for failed/premature inspections may be assessed as additional inspection fees if continued cost by the City occurs for multiple failed inspections.
6. Failure to abide by the contract requirements will result in the owner paying 2x the waived permit fee and daily fines while in violation.

MFTE programs are property tax waiver programs enacted by cities and counties to support local housing goals. Under Chapter 84.14 RCW, local governments can give exemptions for new construction, conversion, and rehabilitation of multifamily residential improvements with at least four units. Under these exemptions, a property owner does not pay property taxes on residential improvements for a given number of years. The property owner still pays tax on the land and on non-residential improvements like the commercial portion of a mixed-use building.

Promotes Housing Development: Incentivizes multi-family development and affordable housing.

Reduces Development Barriers: Reduces barrier to entry for new development by reducing costs through property tax exemption.

8-Year: requires at least 20% of housing units to be reserved for low - and moderate-income households. Under the statute, household income is based on the Clallam County Area Median Income (AMI), with households with incomes at 80% of AMI or less.

12-Year: requires at least 20% of housing units to be reserved for low - and moderate-income households. Under the statute, household income is based on the Clallam County Area Median Income (AMI), with households with incomes at 80% of AMI or less.

20-Year: requires that 25% of units be reserved for affordable housing for households at 80% AMI or below, with a nonprofit or government agency sponsoring the sale and restrictions in place for resale to ensure long-term affordability.

"Low-income household" means a single person, family, or unrelated persons living together whose adjusted income is at or below 80 percent of the median family income adjusted for family size, for Clallam County, as reported by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development.

"Moderate-income household" means a single person, family, or unrelated persons living together whose adjusted income is more than 80 percent of the median family income adjusted for family size, for Clallam County, as reported by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development.

If an application is conditionally approved, the applicant shall enter into a contract with the City regarding the terms and conditions of the project as provided in Port Angeles Municipal Code (PAMC) 17.47.040.A.9. The Director shall issue a conditional certificate of acceptance of tax exemption. If a project is not completed within three years, the conditional certificate expires unless an extension is granted as provided in this chapter.

Conditional Certificate: The conditional certificate is a temporary agreement between the City of Port Angeles and the multi-family developer to exempt taxes for residential improvements upon the completion of construction. The conditional certificate expires three years from the date of approval unless an extension is granted as provided in PAMC 17.46.060.

Final Certificate: The final certificate process is codified in the PAMC 17.46.070. The final certificate is what a developer/owner needs to record with the Clallam County Assessor's office. This makes the building tax-exempt. 

1. Potential applicants can visit the CED website and download the MFTE application.
2. The MFTE application must completed and include all other required documents and be submitted to ced@cityofpa.us
3. The Housing Administrator will notify the applicant within 30 days of the application being filed if the Housing Administrator determines that an application is not complete and shall identify what additional information is required before the application will be determined complete. 
4. A decision to approve or deny an application shall be made within 65 days of receipt of a complete application.

For further details, please refer to the application process codified in PAMC 17.46.050.

Please email the City’s Housing Administrator at jboado@cityofpa.us. You can also schedule an appointment with a planner by calling 360-797-8616 or visiting our website:  www.cityofpa.us/BookAMeeting.  

NICE Neighborhoods funds were created by adopting City Council Resolution No. 5-04 on April 6th, 2004. NICE Neighborhoods funds can expand the City’s tax base through strategic, public capital investment in infrastructure for areas with high development and redevelopment potential. New investment and reduced infrastructure barriers can spur further development and redevelopment, therefore expanding the potential tax base of the City of Port Angeles.

Increased Development Opportunity: These funds remove barriers to development by strategically upgrading off-site infrastructure that previously prohibited development from occurring. 

Reduced Development Costs: These funds reduce development costs by alleviating the burden of off-site improvements for qualifying development.

1. Download a NICE Neighborhoods grant application from the City’s website.
2. Complete the grant application and attach all other required documentation. 
3. Submit the completed grant application to Community and Economic Development via ced@cityofpa.us.

City-managed projects will be selected through the annual Capital Facilities Plan (CFP) process. Non-City use of NICE Neighborhoods funds must be requested through an application to CED.

Applications to CED will be initially reviewed for completeness by the City’s Housing Administrator. Upon confirmation of completeness, small-scale projects will be reviewed for adherence to application criteria, and the CED Manager and City Engineer will make final decisions. Medium-scale projects follow the same review process as small-scale projects; however, the City Manager will review and make the final decisions regarding funding approval. Large-scale projects meeting the application criteria shall be evaluated for their overall public benefit, and a recommendation for approval may be forwarded to the City Council by the Utility Advisory Committee for utility related projects and the City Manager, via the Deputy City Manager and the Director of Public Works and Utilities. The City Engineer will be available at the request of the Public Works Director at City Council meetings regarding NICE applications concerning utilities and streets. The City Manager or their designee will sign all contracts. Approval levels will be consistent with the City’s Financial Policies.

There are three tiers for funding requests $14,999 or less, $15,000 – $24,999, and $25,000 or more. Any request exceeding $25,000 will need to meet all specified requirements as well as city council approval but there is no limit. 

Please email the City’s Housing Administrator Jalyn Boado, at jboado@cityofpa.us. You can also schedule an appointment with a planner by visiting www.cityofpa.us/BookAMeeting.   

Affordable Housing Sales and Use Tax is a grant designed to incentivize the development of public services that provide housing support for those most at risk in our community. See RCW 82.14.530 and 82.14.540 for more information.

Affordable Housing Sales and Use tax funds must be utilized for the following: 

1. Constructing or acquiring property for use as affordable housing (and the construction of infrastructure – water, power, sidewalks, and other public improvements – required for affordable housing development), which may include the following: 
   1. Emergency housing
   2. Transitional housing; 
   3. Supportive housing; 
   4. New units of affordable housing within an existing structure; 
   5. Facilities providing housing-related services; and 
   6. Acquiring land for these purposes. 
2. Constructing or acquiring property for use as behavioral health-related facilities or acquiring land for these purposes; or 
3. Funding the operations and maintenance costs of new units of affordable housing and facilities where housing-related programs are provided, or newly constructed evaluation and treatment centers. 
4. The affordable housing and facilities providing housing-related programs may only be provided to persons within any of the following population groups whose income is at or below sixty percent of the median income of the jurisdiction imposing the tax:
   1. Persons with behavioral health disabilities; 
   2. Veterans; 
   3. Senior citizens; 
   4. Persons who are homeless or at risk of being homeless; 
   5. Unaccompanied homeless youth or young adults; 
   6. Persons with disabilities; and 
   7. Domestic violence survivors.

See RCW 82.14.530 and RCW 82.14.540 for more information.

Increased Public Services: The Affordable Housing Sales and Use Tax grant increases development opportunities for necessary public services by leveraging public and private funds.

Reduced Development Costs: The Affordable Housing Sales and Use Tax grant reduces construction and land acquisition expenses to the developer through a grant paid as an advance by the city to the applicant.

The application process is simple and easy. All applicants will: 

1. Download an Affordable Housing Sales and Use Tax grant application from the City’s website.
2. Complete the grant application and attach all other required documentation.
3. Submit the completed grant application to Community and Economic Development via ced@cityofpa.us

Funding requests under $14,999 can be approved by the CED Manager, City Attorney, and Finance Director. 

Funding requests between $15,000 and $24,999 must be approved by the City Manager, City Attorney, and Finance Director. 

Funding requests over $25,000 must be approved by the City Council and all parties mentioned above. 

Affordable Housing Sales and Use taxes are collected upon the transaction of all retail sales in the City of Port Angeles at the rate of one-tenth of one percent.

Please email the City’s Housing Administrator at jboado@cityofpa.us.  

You can also schedule an appointment with a planner by calling 360-797-8616 or visiting our website at www.cityofpa.us/BookAMeeting. 

Every storm is different. Because of this, there is no set schedule for when plowing will occur. If we receive an advanced notice that snowfall may occur (wunderground.com or noaa.gov), we will prepare our equipment and begin plowing/de-icing as necessary.

Yes and no. Our department runs a mix ratio of sand and salt, at approximately 3:1 (sand to salt). We are allowed a small allotment of salt each year, as WSDOT reserves the right to most of the salt during the winter months. We are able to stockpile approximately 70 tons (which does not go very far) and try to reserve it for our most dangerous hills and streets, and to help our first responders when they are in need. 

We can clear the roadways faster and better when cars are not parked on the streets. If you have a driveway, please use it! 

It is inevitable that driveways will be blocked during plowing operations. To reduce the amount of snow pushed into your driveway, please pile any snow that is shoveled from the driveway to the right side of the driveway opening (right side determined by standing in your driveway and looking towards the street). We apologize for this inconvenience. Snow removal can be a monumental task with our limited equipment, and the street crews do their best to clear the roads around the clock. We will not return to clear your driveway.

Citizens can help by reporting potholes and icy intersections to the Public Works Department at 360-417-4800 or publicworks@cityofpa.us. If you reach our voicemail, please leave a message with the information. The supervisor will be monitoring these messages from the field.

As a general rule, counties in Washington State are responsible for providing criminal justice services for felony, gross misdemeanor, and misdemeanor offenses within their boundaries. 

Cities must provide criminal just services for misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor offenses committed inside city limits through the use of their own courts, staff and facilities—or—by entering into contracts or interlocal agreements. 

The original interlocal agreement for criminal justice services was established in 2015 for a period of 10 years. It expired on December 31, 2025. Over the intervening ten years, the laws and the circumstances to affect the provision of these services have changed, and a new contract must account for those changes.

No. To prevent a gap in critical services, the City and County negotiated a six-month extension to the original agreement. This extension is set to expire on June 30, 2026.

In 2015, the City paid $800,000 to the County for the 2016 years of services. In 2025, the City paid $1,129,251 to the County for the full year of services.

As agreed upon in the original contract, the City paid an annual cost increase for the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue CPI-W Index, and this is why the amount has increased over time. Over the last ten years, costs to the City have increased 41.2%.

The County has proposed a $2.5 million annual cost increase to the City, for a total cost of $3,666,950 million in 2026. 

The City has requested financial information from the County that demonstrates the County’s fixed costs and provides rationale for a $2.5 million (or 225%) per year increase. To date, the information provided to the City is incomplete.

The City is hiring an independent consultant to analyze the cost to perform these services in Port Angeles. This work helps to ensure that Port Angeles residents do not pay more than their fair share for criminal justice services in the future. 

Visit the project page for updates.