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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


An SDOT snow plow with its headlights on prepares to go back out to remove more snow.

Snowplow Training in Seattle: How We’re Preparing for Winter Roads [ https://sdotblog.seattle.gov/2024/11/18/snowplow-practice-run-prepare-for-winter-weather/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]



A group of women entrepreneurs visit a table staffed by SDOT employees to learn more about contracting opportunities.

Making Valuable Connections at the 2024 Reverse Vendor Trade Show [ https://sdotblog.seattle.gov/2024/11/07/discover-sdot-wmbe-program-contracting-event-november-13/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]





Detail of the traffic light at 2nd and Marion in Downtown Seattle with various office buildings behind.

Seattle Voters Approve $1.55B Transportation Levy to Modernize City Infrastructure [ https://sdotblog.seattle.gov/2024/11/08/seattle-voters-approve-transportation-levy-to-maintain-and-modernize-city-streets-with-paving-bridge-repairs-sidewalk-construction-and-connections-to-light-rail/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]



A white SDOT Response Team truck with a magenta diamond logo is parked on a leafy street, showing the rear driver's side quarter panel.

Crash Responder Safety Week 2024: How You Can Help Protect First Responders [ https://sdotblog.seattle.gov/2024/11/18/crash-responder-safety-week-2024/?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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Time to Renew Your Annual Vehicle Permits

If you’re planning any short-term construction work in Seattle’s public right-of-way, it’s time to ensure your 2025 Annual Vehicle Permits are in place. These permits are required to legally operate vehicles for projects in designated areas. Whether you're a contractor, homeowner, landlord, or local business, getting your permits on time is critical for a smooth workflow.  

*How to Get Your 2025 Vehicle Permits  * 

Follow these simple steps to renew or apply for your permits:  


* *Submit Your Application*
* Apply through the Seattle Services Portal. Ensure all your information is accurate to avoid any delays.

* *Receive & Review Your Permits*
* Once your application is processed, you'll receive an email with a PDF listing all your approved permits. Review them carefully to confirm the details align with your application.

* *Display Your Permit* 
* Print your permit and ensure it is clearly displayed inside the corresponding vehicle whenever it’s working in the right-of-way.  

*Why Renew Early?  * 

Renewing your permits ahead of time helps you avoid disruptions to your projects. These permits are annual and must be updated every year, so getting an early start ensures your compliance without delays.  

Need additional support or have questions about the process? Visit the Seattle Services Portal [ https://gbc-onenote.officeapps.live.com/o/onenoteframe.aspx?cac=1&corrid=4e8b4af0-cae7-946e-7ab8-03431cb17087&ctp=LeastProtected&dchat=1&hch=1&hid=0A7067A1-D01F-7000-087F-AE1571C3DBAF.0&hwfh=1&jsapi=1&jsapiver=v1&mscc=1&mtf=1&muv=1&newsession=1&rct=Normal&rs=en-US&sams=1&sc=%7B%22pmo%22%3A%22https%3A%2F%2Fseattlegov-my.sharepoint.com%22%2C%22pmshare%22%3Atrue%7D&sfp=1&sftc=1&ui=en-US&uih=sharepointcom&uihit=docaspx&usid=4e8b4af0-cae7-946e-7ab8-03431cb17087&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery&wd=target%28Editorial+Calendar.one%7Cebacbcb9-bb19-4272-9e80-3949b81b98f7%2FNovember+2024%7C4cfb249b-0bf2-4c94-8968-0c92bfee5285%2F%29&wdenableroaming=1&wdhostclicktime=1732563422774&wdlcid=en-US&wdodb=1&wdorigin=ONENOTE&wdredirectionreason=Force_SingleStepBoot&wopisrc=https%3A%2F%2Fseattlegov-my.sharepoint.com%2Fpersonal%2Fbrian_hardison_seattle_gov%2F_vti_bin%2Fwopi.ashx%2Ffolders%2F1b475498d9224311806ebc75d52f21da%3Futm_medium%3Demail%26utm_source%3Dgovdelivery ] for more information or contact us directly.   

Getting your permits renewed is a simple step toward staying on top of your projects and responsibilities for the year ahead. Don’t wait – apply today! 

________________________________________________________________________



*Holiday Construction Moratorium Updates*

The holiday season is in full swing, and with it comes the implementation of Seattle's Holiday Construction Moratorium. Whether you're a contractor, landlord, or small business owner, staying informed about these rules can help you avoid disruptions and plan ahead effectively.

The moratorium affects construction in 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*

Need to complete construction during these periods? Exception requests are required to continue any work during the moratorium timeline. Please note the following deadlines for submission:


* *D**owntown and Pioneer Square:* The deadline for exception requests has passed (September 30).
* *Chinatown-International District:* Exception requests *must be submitted by December 1* to be considered.

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

*How to Apply for an Exception*

To apply for an exception, you need to submit the following documents:


* A *Holiday Construction Moratorium Exception Request Form* (completed in full).
* A *site plan* outlining your construction area.
* *Traffic Control Plans (TCP)* to ensure public safety and accessibility.

Submit these documents via email to *sdotconstructionhub@seattle.gov* <sdotconstructionhub@seattle.gov> or mail them to this address:

*Seattle Department of Transportation—Street Use Division*

700 5th Ave, Suite 2300

P.O. Box 34996

Seattle, WA 98124-4996

*ATTN:* Holiday Construction Moratorium

Good news—there are *no additional fees* to submit an exception request. Standard permit fees, however, will still apply.

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

*Landslide Season Has Arrived In Seattle! Are You Ready?* Learn helpful techniques and resources to keep you and your home safe during landslide season. Stay alert and informed with this easy-to-read guide from the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections! Hop over to their blog to read more about how you can prepare. [ https://buildingconnections.seattle.gov/2024/10/28/its-landslide-season-are-you-prepared-5/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]  

*Don't Forget to Inspect Your Storm Drain Inserts! *The rainy season is here and it's time to stay ahead of the storm. Here are some handy tips from the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections on maintaining and inspecting your storm drain inserts. So, take a moment to protect your local waterways from pollutants. To learn more, check out their informative blog post. [ https://buildingconnections.seattle.gov/2024/10/31/dont-forget-to-inspect-storm-drain-inserts-3/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]  

*Seattle Announces $3.5M in Grants for Transition to Clean Energy! *Find out how Seattle is supporting under-resourced buildings to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and make the switch to clean, renewable energy. See how this generous grant program is making a difference in our city's sustainability efforts. Get the details on the Green Space Seattle blog and learn how you can be part of our city's green energy transition. [ https://greenspace.seattle.gov/2024/10/seattle-announces-3-5m-in-grants-to-help-under-resourced-buildings-reduce-ghg-emissions-and-plan-for-transition-to-clean-energy/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]  

*Let's Be Rainy Day Ready, Together!* Seattle is known for its rainy days. Are you prepared? Discover effective ways to tackle heavy rain and prevent flooding around your home with this insightful blog post from our partners at Seattle Public Utilities. Stay dry and safe this season, learn more about managing heavy rains on their blog. [ https://atyourservice.seattle.gov/2024/10/24/lets-be-rainy-day-ready-together/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]  

*Slay Energy Vampires and Save on Your Electricity Bill.* Discover how to reduce your electricity bill by identifying hidden energy consumers in your home with this informative blog post from Seattle City Light. Learn practical methods to manage these energy drains effectively and protect your savings. Read more on their blog for valuable insights. [ https://powerlines.seattle.gov/2024/10/30/slay-these-energy-vampires-to-save-on-your-electricity-bill/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]  

*Curious about how sustainability can go hand in hand with affordable housing in Seattle?* Dive into the story of Beacon Pacific Village, an innovative housing project that's paving the path for green, affordable living solutions. Learn all about this cutting-edge initiative and how it's changing the face of housing in our city in this blog post from Seattle City Light! [ https://powerlines.seattle.gov/2024/11/15/beacon-pacific-village-a-landmark-in-sustainable-and-affordable-housing/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ] 












*Seattle Department of Transportation*

700 5th Avenue

Suite 3800

Seattle, WA 98104

*Phone: 206-684-7623*

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