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Upcoming Street Use Fee Changes Effective Jan 1, 2025—Learn What’s Changing and Plan Ahead Today!



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Upcoming Street Use Fee Changes: Plan Ahead for 2025!
A close-up of a Black person's hands typing on a laptop with a smartphone in the other hand; a disposable coffee cup is visible in the background.

We have some important news to share with you regarding the updated fee schedule for Street Use. These changes will come into effect *on January 1, 2025*, so it's crucial to stay informed and plan accordingly.  

*Key Updates *  

To give you a quick overview, here are some important changes to the fee schedule:   


* ROW Simple Issuance: $204.00 to $209.00    

* ROW Complex Issuance (includes Minor Utility permits) : $736.00 to $754.00    

* Major (SIP/UMP) Permit Issuance: $8,708.00 to $8,917.00    

* SIP Lite Issuance: $3,332.00 to $3,412.00    

* No Permit/No Job Start Fee: $357.00 to $366.00    

* Street Vacation Processing: $11,638.00 to $11,917.00    

* Council Term Issuance: $416.00 to $426.00    

* General Long-Term Issuance: $416.00 to $426.00    

* General Long-Term Renewal: $316.00 to $324.00    

* Temporary Private Street & Sidewalk Activities Issuance: $959.00 to $982.00    

* Temporary Private Street & Sidewalk Activities Issuance, per day use fee after first date on same permit: $158.00 to $199.00    

* Year-round Business Activation Issuance: $1,286.00 to $1,317.00    

* Year-round Business Activation Issuance - Each Additional Space: $211.00 to $216.00    

* Year-round Business Activation Renewal: $620.00 to $635.00    

* Seasonal Business Activation Issuance: $527.00 to $540.00    

* Event Pole Banner Issuance: $316.00 to $324.00    

* Standard Permit Modification Issuance: $293.00 to $300.00    

* Hourly Review and Inspection Rate: $350.00 to $358.00    

* Overtime Hourly Review and Inspection Rate: $701.00 to $718.00     

Each year, we adjust our review and inspection rates, along with our issuance and renewal fees, based on the Consumer Price Index. The City Council sets our occupation, use, and citation fees, which were last updated in 2019. For 2025, these fees will be adjusted according to the CPI and increase by 25.8%. 

For a complete list of the updated fees, please review our Street Use fee schedule on our website [ https://www.seattle.gov/transportation/permits-and-services/permits/how-to-estimate-and-pay-fees?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]. Keep in mind that the final fee schedule for 2025 will be posted in early January.   

*Need More Information? *  

If you have any questions or require further assistance, our team is here to help! You can reach us at SDOTPermits@seattle.gov or call (206) 684-5253.





Spotlight


Pioneer Square Improvements with bollards along avenue [20241223]

We are Making Pioneer Square More Accessible and Vibrant [ https://sdotblog.seattle.gov/2024/12/04/pioneer-square-improvements-support-a-more-accessible-and-vibrant-neighborhood/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]



Waterfront Seattle improvements [20241223]

Construction Kick-Off for the Alaskan Way Safety Project [ https://sdotblog.seattle.gov/2024/12/20/alaskan-way-safety-project-construction-begins/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]





130th Ave Project Design Complete [20241223]

LEVY DOLLARS AT WORK: NE 130th & 125th St Project Reaches Final Design [ https://sdotblog.seattle.gov/2024/12/11/130th-125th-project-reaches-final-design/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]



Bike Improvements on Alaska Way and Yesler [20241223]

Waterfront Seattle | Waterfront Bike Improvements Making Progress [ https://sdotblog.seattle.gov/2024/12/03/waterfront-bike-improvements-making-progress/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]







Street Use Updates

Stay Safe This Season: Four Ways to Clear Sidewalks and Streets
A pile of yellowed leaves in the street by a curb, with a green yard waste bin and rake nearby, next to a clear sidewalk and vegetation.

Winter in Seattle often means rain, fallen leaves, and colder temperatures, creating slippery and potentially hazardous conditions. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, contractor, landlord, or business owner, maintaining clear sidewalks isn’t just a courtesy—it’s essential for everyone’s safety, especially for those using mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers.   

Keeping our streets and sidewalks safe is a shared responsibility in our community. Here’s how you can play your part this winter:  

*Why Keeping Sidewalks Clear Matters*

Blocked sidewalks aren't just a minor inconvenience—they can pose serious risks. Wet leaves, overgrown vegetation, and debris increase the likelihood of slips and falls, while obstructed gutters can lead to flooding or icy patches. Maintaining clean sidewalks helps prevent injuries and ensures everyone can move safely and easily, no matter their level of mobility.   

*How to Keep Sidewalks Safe Every Day*

*Trim Vegetation*   


* Check trees, shrubs, and other plants around your property to ensure they’re not blocking sidewalks or streets.
* Trim branches to provide at least 8 feet of clearance above sidewalks and 14 feet above streets for safe passage.
* "Important Note": If any branch is 2 inches or more in diameter, you’ll need a city permit before trimming.

*Clear Fallen Leaves*   


* Regularly rake fallen leaves from sidewalks and gutters before they become slick.
* Don’t sweep leaves into streets—use green waste bins to safely dispose of them.

*Unclog Gutters*   


* Blocked gutters lead to water overflow, which can puddle and freeze on sidewalks—creating dangerous walking conditions. Take a few minutes to clear leaves and debris from your property’s gutters.

*Be a Snow and Ice Hero*   


* When temperatures drop, remember to keep sidewalks free of snow and ice. Use sand or non-toxic ice melt to improve traction on these surfaces during freezing conditions.

*Help Your Neighbors and Build a Safer Community*

Looking out for those around you can make a big difference. If a neighbor struggles to maintain their sidewalks—whether due to age, physical limitations, or other challenges—offer to lend a hand. Small efforts such as trimming a shrub or clearing leaves can make shared areas safer and foster a stronger community connection.   

*Everyone’s Responsibility*

Did you know? It’s not just good practice, it’s also the law in Seattle to maintain the space between your property and the curb. By working together, we can ensure our neighborhoods remain safe and accessible for everyone—even during the most challenging winter days.  

*Getting Started*

By regularly trimming plants, keeping leaves in check, and ensuring sidewalks are ice-free, you’re contributing to a safer, more accessible Seattle for all residents. Thank you for making a difference in our community!   

For more resources and tips, visit the City’s Winter Weather [ https://seattle.gov/winter-weather?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ] website.  

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Brighten Your Street with Decorative Tree Lighting for the Upcoming Season
Brightly lit window display in a downtown boutique with two lit street trees and two pedestrians on the sidewalk.

Did you know that adding decorative lights to street trees can make neighborhoods feel more welcoming and uplifting? Lighting up Seattle’s street trees is a great way to foster a sense of community, especially as we move into the darker months. However, it’s important to do so responsibly to keep our trees healthy and ensure residents’ safety.   

Here’s what you should know before you start decorating your street trees this season.   

*Permit Guidelines  * 

The great news is that many light installations won't require a permit! Here's a quick breakdown of when you might need one:  


* If you’d like to leave your lights up for more than 3 months (but no more than 3 years), you’ll need a Tree permit.
* If your lights stay up for less than 3 months, you do not need a Tree permit.
* A Right-of-Way Construction permit is needed for installation work unless you’re able to use a ladder shorter than 14.1 feet to install or remove your lights.

For long term installations requiring a Tree permit, a City Arborist will inspect the setup both after installation and once the lights are removed to ensure everything has been done safely.   

*Installation and Safety Guidelines  * 

To keep our sidewalks safe and our environment thriving, remember these essential rules for decorating street trees:  


* Ensure all installations are high enough for pedestrians to easily walk beneath without obstruction.
* Only use trees with a *trunk diameter of at least 4 inches.*

* Never trim branches for the sake of hanging lights—pruning trees requires special consideration to ensure their health.
* Lights must be strung *loosely* to allow for natural tree growth.
* Avoid securing wires, light fixtures, or any attachments with materials like wire, duct tape, or masking tape; these can harm the trees.

Additionally, lights must meet *national electrical standards* for safety.   

*Why It Matters  * 

Decorating trees the right way allows us to enjoy a brighter, livelier community without compromising the health of our local greenery or the safety of those around us. Every detail, from the type of tree you use to how you secure the lights, plays an essential role in achieving this balance.   

*Have Questions? We’re Here to Help!  * 

Our staff and the City Arborist are available to answer any questions and provide guidance. Call us at *206-684-5253* or reach out to the City Arborist's Office at *206-**684-TREE (8733)*.   

Working together, we can create festive, beautiful streets while caring for our environment. Start planning your decorations now and help Seattle shine this season!   

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Renew Your 2025 Annual Vehicle Permits

Planning a construction project in Seattle's public right-of-way? Make sure you're ready for the year ahead by securing your 2025 Annual Vehicle Permits. These permits are crucial to legally operate vehicles in designated areas.

Whether you're a contractor, homeowner, landlord, or business owner, having your permit is essential to keeping everything running smoothly.

How to Apply for Your 2025 Vehicle Permits

Follow these quick and easy steps to get your permits in place:


* *Submit Your Application*
* Apply through the Seattle Services Portal [ # ]. Double-check your details to avoid delays during processing.

* *Receive & Review Your Permits*
* Once your application is approved, we'll email you a PDF with your permits. Review them to ensure all the information matches your application.

* *Display Your Permit*
* Print your permit and prominently display it inside the corresponding vehicle while working in the public right-of-way.

Why Apply Now?

Avoid last-minute stress and project delays by applying for your 2025 Annual Vehicle Permit today. Renewing ahead of schedule ensures you stay compliant and keeps your projects moving forward.

Need Help?

Visit the Seattle Services Portal [ # ] for detailed information, or contact us with any questions.

Don’t wait—take this simple step now to stay on top of your projects and responsibilities in 2025.

________________________________________________________________________



Changes to Tower Crane Construction Work Zones

A new House Bill (HB 2022) [ https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2023-24/Pdf/Bills/House%20Passed%20Legislature/2022-S2.PL.pdf?q=20241217221453%22+%5Co+%22https%3A%2F%2Flawfilesext.leg.wa.gov%2Fbiennium%2F2023-24%2FPdf%2FBills%2FHouse+Passed+Legislature%2F2022-S2.PL.pdf%3Fq%3D20241217221453&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ] was recently passed by our state leaders. Starting January 1, 2025, this new rule will change how we set up, take down, and rearrange tower cranes. Now, the work area must include any place the crane or its parts could reach if, for some reason, it tipped over.

This might mean the blocked-off area for crane activity could be larger than expected. It may also mean contractors must plan for things like getting permits and controlling traffic differently. Plus, these crane activities might need to be scheduled further in advance than before.

Keep in mind, this rule isn't just for new cranes. Those cranes that are already standing and ready to work also need to follow these new guidelines. So, you might have to go back and check whether your current plans work with the new rule.

If your crane work takes place near large places like stadiums or busy areas where construction is tightly scheduled (known as SDOT Construction Hubs), schedule windows to perform work may be impacted.

Don't worry - we're here to guide you through these changes and make sure you're all set for your next crane operation. Reach out to us at SDOTPermits@seattle.gov with any questions or further explanations.

For more in-depth info, you can look up the full House Bill 2022 [ https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2023-24/Pdf/Bills/House%20Passed%20Legislature/2022-S2.PL.pdf?q=20241217221453%22+%5Co+%22https%3A%2F%2Flawfilesext.leg.wa.gov%2Fbiennium%2F2023-24%2FPdf%2FBills%2FHouse+Passed+Legislature%2F2022-S2.PL.pdf%3Fq%3D20241217221453&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ] on the state legislature website. Stay tuned for more details from us in January.

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*Holiday Construction Moratorium Updates*

The holiday season is here. And with the holidays Seattle's Holiday Construction Moratorium will be in effect. Whether you're a contractor, landlord, or small business owner, staying informed about these rules can help you plan ahead and avoid disruptions.

The moratorium affects construction in busy ones busy neighborhoods like the Downtown Retail Core, Pioneer Square, and Chinatown-International District (CID). Here’s an updated guide to help you understand the current rules and deadlines.

*Understanding the Holiday Construction Moratorium*

The moratorium is aimed at supporting local businesses by minimizing disruptions during critical shopping and dining periods. It also helps reduce congestion in high-demand areas. Here's how the moratorium applies to the affected neighborhoods:


* *Downtown and Pioneer Square:* Construction work is prohibited from *Thanksgiving Day through New Year's Day.* 
* *Chinatown-International District (CID):* Restrictions will be in place *three weeks before the Lunar New Year and end three weeks after Lunar New Year*—a total of six weeks. Remember, the Lunar New Year date changes annually, so check the calendar!   

*Submitting Exception Requests*

If construction must occur during these periods, you can request an exception. Please note the following deadlines for submission:


*

*Downtown and Pioneer Square:* The deadline for exception requests has passed (September 30).


*

*Chinatown-International District:*  The deadline for exception requests has passed (December 1).

Any construction work without an approved exception during the moratorium may be asked to stop.

Application and Permit Review Timelines

You can find the current timelines for applying for and reviewing common Street Use permits on our Permitting Timelines web page. This will help you see how long it usually takes to get an approved permit. We update these timelines at the start of each month.

 

View Street Use Permit Timelines [ https://www.seattle.gov/transportation/permits-and-services/permits/permitting-customer-service-support?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery#estimatepermit ]   

 

Keep in mind that some permits, like Right-of-Way (ROW) Construction and Minor Utility permits, can follow two different paths. This depends on whether outside reviewers, like Seattle City Light (SCL) or private utilities, are involved, leading to different timelines for each path.   





News from Our Partners

*Find out who's making decisions in your district!* The International Special Review District has released the results of their latest election. Click to learn about the new faces helping shape Seattle. [ https://frontporch.seattle.gov/2024/11/27/international-special-review-district-announces-results-of-annual-election-4/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

*Make a difference in your community!* You're invited to be part of the 2025 Neighborhood Matching Fund Community Review Panel. See how you can help shape the future of Seattle neighborhoods and apply before February 14th, 2025. Learn more about joining this significant Seattle initiative. [ https://frontporch.seattle.gov/2024/12/10/join-the-2025-neighborhood-matching-fund-community-review-panel/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

*Changes are Coming to Plumbing and Gas Permit Fees!* Find out what's on the horizon for our city's plumbing and gas permit fees. Stay informed and explore what these changes mean for you on this detailed blog post by our partner. [ https://buildingconnections.seattle.gov/2024/12/05/changes-coming-to-plumbing-gas-permit-fees/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

*Help shape your city! Seattle's Design Review Boards are looking for volunteers.* Got creative ideas? You could play a big role in influencing how new buildings look in your neighborhood. Learn more in this blog post and apply by 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, December 31, 2024. [ https://buildingconnections.seattle.gov/2024/12/05/members-sought-for-seattles-design-review-boards-2/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

*Curious about how Seattle is tackling climate change head-on?* Discover how Seattle's new Resilience Hub Plan is redefining what it means to stand strong against climate change, especially for our frontline communities. It's all about us taking care of our city and each other. Let's get involved! [ https://greenspace.seattle.gov/2024/11/engagement-for-seattles-upcoming-resilience-hub-plan-highlights-what-climate-resilience-means-to-frontline-communities/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

*Get ready for winter with our new blog post from Seattle City Light!* Learn how to stay safe and reduce your electricity usage during chilly weather. We've got easy tips and tricks you'll want to know! [ https://powerlines.seattle.gov/2024/12/10/winter-weather-prep-stay-safe-and-save-electricity/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]












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Seattle, WA 98104

*Phone: 206-684-7623*

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