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Business & Development - Building

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1. What building regulations apply to projects in Ridgefield?

Effective July 1, 2013, the 2012 Building Code version will be applied to all projects.

2. Do I need a permit for a small project for my house like a deck or a fence?

You may. Fences for a single-family house are exempt from permitting, but a Fence Permit is needed for all other fences. Decks or platforms with no roof or cover that are not over 30 inches above finish grade are exempt from building permits, but other decks are required to obtain a building permit.

3. Do I need a permit to cut down a tree?

You may. A Tree Cutting Permit is required to remove a tree in the public right-of-way, such as trees in the planter strip. No permit is needed for trees located on private property.

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Business & Development - Code Compliance

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1. What types of public nuisances can the City regulate?

The City regulates public nuisances such as tall grass, noxious weeds, fire hazards, accumulation of junk or debris, decaying structures, and vermin. The City also regulates violations of the zoning code, the building code health and welfare regulations, and sidewalk repair standards. Read more about code compliance.

2. How can I file a complaint with the City about a public nuisance?

Please complete the Comment/Complaint Form.

Our code enforcement procedures are complaint-driven. When we receive a complaint from a citizen about a possible violation, we investigate the situation and issue a notice if a violation is present. Our code enforcement staff does not patrol the community on a regular basis because of staff time constraints. If you believe there are additional violations that should be corrected, please file a complaint with the City and we will investigate.

3. I received a notice from the City to correct a violation but I disagree about the specifics. How can I work out a solution?

Call the City to discuss your concerns at 360-887-3557. If you believe the notice was issued in error or that you are not in violation of the regulations, you may appeal the determination. If you are unsure how to correct the problem, please contact us and we will help connect you with the right information and resources. Our primary goal with code enforcement is to correct the violation rather that punish the violator.

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Business & Development - Planning

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1. How can I determine the zoning and development regulations for my property?

The two primary resources available online are the Clark County Maps Online system and the Ridgefield Development Code, Title 18 of the Municipal Code.

2. How can I get answers to a planning related question?

After you've checked the County GIS and the Development Code regulations, the Planning Division is happy to help answer any questions. Please fill out our Online Planning Inquiry Form, and we will connect you with the staff person best able to help answer your inquiry.

3. I hear there is a new development project pending near me. How can I get more information?

Pending development projects are summarized in our monthly Community Development reports. All property owners within 300 feet of a proposed project will receive a notice from the City. You may also find notices online or by reading the legal notices section of The Reflector, the city's newspaper of record.

4. How can I comment on a proposed development project?

Depending on the type of projects, you can provide written comments or testify orally at a public hearing within the prescribed comment period. Staff will consider all public comments received, and comments that speak directly to the project approval criteria are the best way to influence the final decision. Please contact us for more information about the comment period and approval criteria for a specific project.

5. How much are land use permit fees?

Fees vary based on the type of permit and are detailed in the Master Fee Schedule. All permit fees must be paid at the time of application submittal. The City uses a cost-recovery structure for some types of permits, which means that the initial fee is due at the time of the application and additional staff time required for review is billed to the applicant on a monthly basis.

6. How can I obtain copies of the land use permit applications?

Land use permit applications are available online and in person at City Hall. All applications require the Master Land Use Application and supporting applications specific to the review requested, such as subdivision or site plan. Please contact us or file a Planning Inquiry to determine which applications are required for your project.

7. How can I submit my land use application? Can I submit online?

Land use applications must be submitted by mail to:
City of Ridgefield
P.O. Box 608
Ridgefield, WA 98642

Or in person, deliverable to Ridgefield City Hall at 230 Pioneer Street and is open 8 am to 5 pm. Unfortunately, we cannot accept applications submitted electronically.

8. What is the difference between Type I, Type, II, and Type III land use reviews?

Generally, the higher the number, the greater the level of discretion and associated scrutiny involved in the decision-making process. A Type 1 process involves staff review of relatively straight-forward land use regulations, such as numerical standards like building height. A Type II process is also a staff review but involves some discretion to interpret the applicable regulations, such as whether a proposed downtown facade meets the district's design standards. A Type III process requires considerable discretion to determine whether a proposed development meets the approval criteria, such as minimizing impacts to neighboring users, and is decided by a Hearing Examiner.

9. How long does it take to get a land use permit approved?

It depends on the type of application. Generally, Type I applications can be reviewed in 2 to 4 weeks and Type II applications can be reviewed in 6 to 8 weeks, though review times vary depending on the thoroughness of the application and the Community Development Department's workload. Type III reviews, by law, cannot exceed 120 days; staff aims to complete their review in less time, but these are typically complex cases to each review process differs.

10. How can I get involved in Planning Commission?

You are welcome to attend Planning Commission meetings, held the first Wednesday of every month, and participate in public hearings. If you are interested in serving on Planning Commission, please complete an application and submit to City Hall. We will put you in touch with the Chair of the Planning Commission to discuss future opportunities.

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First Saturdays Vendor

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1. What events can I be a vendor at in 2023?

We will be hosting First Saturday Vendors at our First Saturday events May through October and December. There will be no vendors at the January, February, March, April or November events.

2. How will I know if my application has been accepted?

Your application is automatically accepted, but you will be contacted if your application needs more information or is denied.

3. How much is the Vendor Fee?

The Vendor Fee is $25 for each event paid online at the time of application.

4. Can I apply for multiple events on one application?

You may apply for as many events as you wish at one time as long as it is prior to the application deadline. You must pay the vendor fees for these events when you submit your application. We can not accommodate payment plans – if you are only able to pay for one event at a time you should only apply for one at a time.

5. What if I am representing a non-profit?

Non-profits who provide their 501(c)(3) number on their application will not be charged a vendor fee.

6. What if I need to cancel my attendance for an event?

If you need to cancel your attendance to an event, email Ireland Coleman. Cancellations greater than 30 days prior to the event date qualify for a full refund. Cancellations between 10 and 30 days prior to the event date do not qualify for a refund but can transfer the fee to a future event within that same calendar year (subject to space available). Vendors who cancel less than 10 days prior to the event or no-shows will not qualify for a refund or transfer.

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Public Works & Engineering

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1. How do I report a problem?

To report a non-emergency problem with City of Ridgefield water and drainage services, street, and/or public parks, call Public Works Administration at 360-887-8251 or submit a Public Works Service Request.

If you are experiencing an emergency non-life threatening water issue outside of business hours, please call 360-518-8146.

2. How do I report a streetlight that is out?

Clark Public Utilities (CPU) is responsible for maintaining the street lights in Ridgefield. To report an issue, please contact Clark Public Utilities at 360-992-3000 or submit a service request online through AccessRidgefield.

If you are calling CPU to report a light, you will need the following information:

Street Address (including number address, if available)
Pole Number (can be found physically on the pole, printed on a small yellow tag typically located at eye level)

If you need further assistance, please contact the City of Ridgefield's Operations Division at 360-887-8251.

3. When will the City trim our brush?

The City does not trim trees or brush on private property.

4. When will you fix the potholes / signs on my street?

We depend on citizens to help us identify problem areas. Report a problem and we will assess it for further action.

5. Is blowing my grass or leaves into the street bad for water quality?

Yes. Grass and leaves blown into the street are washed away by storm-water runoff into the stormwater system, which drains into local streams and rivers. Rotting leaves raise nitrogen levels and lower oxygen levels in the water, leading to excessive algae growth as well as harming and killing fish.

Grass and leaves also cause storm facilities to clog, which may lead to flooding when it rains.

6. What is a cross connection and why am I required to install a backflow assembly device?

Cross connections are found in all plumbing systems. Pollutants can enter the safe drinking water system through uncontrolled cross connection when backflow occurs. A backflow assembly device prevents contamination from occurring. RMC 13.55 Backflow Cross-Connection Regulations.

7. Do I need a permit to remove my tree?

The City of Ridgefield requires a tree removal permit for trees on public property. You may find the Street Tree Removal Application in the Engineering Permit Center.

8. What utilities services does the City of Ridgefield provide?

The City of Ridgefield provides water and stormwater management services.

For sewer service, please contact Clark Regional Wastewater District directly at 360-750-5876 or visit them online.

9. How do I start City of Ridgefield water services?

Complete an online Account Application or call 360-887-3557. You will need the following information to set up an account:

• Your Name, as well as any other names of individuals you want on your account
• Service Address and, if different, Mailing Address
• Whether you are renting or own the property
  • Tenants: If you are renting your service location, please confirm with your landlord who will be paying for these services
• Your Phone Number and Email Address

For new construction not yet connected to water services, please contact the Community Development Department at 360-887-3908.

10. There is a disruption in services. Who should I call?

If you are experiencing a disruption in your water service, please call Utility Services at 360-887-3557.

Any customer who is disconnected for non-payment shall not be reconnected until payment of all charges and fees outlined in the Notice of Past Due Balance and Disconnection of Service is received, or a payment arrangement has been approved by the Finance Director.

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Ridgefield Outdoor Recreation Complex

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1. How do I reserve a field or the community building at Ridgefield Outdoor Recreation Complex (RORC)?

Call the Ridgefield School District at 360-619-1301, or use their online reservation system, Facilitron.

2. Can I use the fields without a reservation?

When there is no reservation in place, the park is first-come, first-serve. Sports fields must be used appropriately (i.e. play baseball on a baseball field, no picnics). If a group or individual arrives who has a reservation, you must yield the field and respect the reservation.

3. Where can I park?

The Ridgefield Outdoor Recreation Complex has one regular parking lot and one overflow parking lot. Please park first in the regular parking lot with the entrance directly across from S Royle Rd on Hillhurst Rd. The parking lot at View Ridge Middle School may be used as overflow parking.

4. What are the park rules?

The Ridgefield Outdoor Recreation Complex is a City Park, and all City Park rules (PDF) apply.

5. What are the park's hours?

The park is generally open from 8 am to dusk.

6. How can I get tickets to the Raptors?

Visit the Ridgefield Raptors website for tickets and merchandise.

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Special Event Permits

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1. What is a special event?

A special event includes any activity that occurs on private or public property and affects the ordinary use of public streets, rights-of-ways, and/or sidewalks. This includes, but is not limited to fairs, festivals, concerts, performances, parades, athletic events, fundraising events, etc.

A "Block Party" is a gathering organized by residents of the neighborhood abutting the street to be closed. Block Parties have different requirements and application than a Special Event. Please view Block Party Permit Information.

2. Why do you need a special event permit?

Ridgefield encourages civic, private, and community groups to sponsor Special Events and is proud of these community-building opportunities. To do so, the City makes its streets and public right-of-way available for approved events. To promote access, ensure the safety of event participants and spectators, and minimize public inconvenience caused by such an event, a Special Event Permit must be obtained prior to the event.

3. What is the special event permit application process?

The Special Event Permit Application Process requires detailed event information. If you are interested in hosting a new event in Ridgefield and would like to get the conversation going with our Special Events Team but aren't ready to submit an application yet, click here to submit the Event Interest Form.

Until your event is pre-approved by the Special Events Team, event organizers are advised not to announce, advertise or promote the event. Use of the City of Ridgefield logo is strictly prohibited unless written permission is obtained.

Application Process Details:

1. Special Event Permit Application: Submit an application a minimum of 90 days prior for events that include street closure(s) or use of public right-of-ways; and a minimum of 60 days prior for events that do not.
2. Work with Special Event Staff. Upon receipt of completed application, Special Event Staff will contact you regarding required documents and any questions about the event. Event Review Team may schedule an event review meeting.
3. Special Event Staff will notify you when your event has been pre-approved, pending required documents/information. Once you have received pre-approval, we encourage you to announce, advertise and promote the event.
4. Secure required permits and additional documents. Event Review team will help identify any additional requirements based on the scope of your event. Documents that may be required vary based on event details. Documents that may be required include:
   1. Certificate of Insurance
   2. Traffic Control Plan
   3. Security or Safety Plan
   4. WA State Liquor and Cannabis Board Permit for service of alcohol
   5. Business license and/or Health Permits for Vendors
   6. Notification to Abutting Property Neighbors for Street Closure
5. Special Event Permit Issued. Once all required permits and documents have been received, verified and approved, you will receive a completed and signed Special Event Permit agreement for your event. A copy must be onsite and made available day of the event.

Site Map:

Special Event Permits Require a site map. You may download the map below to assist with this:

• Overlook Park Event Site Map (PDF)

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Utilities

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1. What utilities services does the City of Ridgefield provide?

The City of Ridgefield provides water and stormwater management services to residents within the Ridgefield city limits.

2. Who do I contact regarding utility services?

For questions regarding utility service provided by the City of Ridgefield please contact the Utility Billing Department.

3. How do I set up a new account or close my current account?

To start, stop, or transfer service, you may complete our utility account application online or provide the information over the phone at 360-887-3557. To better assist you with your account, please download the utility billing brochure and utility billing calendar.

In the event of death or divorce requiring a name change on the account, be sure to contact the city with those changes by:

• Emailing Utility Services
• Calling 360-887-3557
• Visiting:
  510 Pioneer Street
  Suite B
  Ridgefield, WA 98642

4. How do I register my account online?

Visit our online account management page. Follow the steps under “First time user? Register now” Need help? Call Customer Service at 360-887-3557.

If you have recently moved to a new address and previously set up an online account, you will need to add your new account to the login. Log in to Online Account Management and navigate to “My Profile.” Under Your Accounts click “Add more accounts” to this membership and input your account information from your statement. You can then make your new account the default and remove the old account.

This is an online program, where you can review your utility account, history, and consumption, and make electronic check and credit card payments online from the convenience and security of your home computer.

5. Where do I find my account number?

You can find your account number in the upper right corner of your statement, under "Account Information".

6. Can I set up automatic payment?

Ridgefield Utilities offers an automatic payment option from your debit/credit card, or checking account. Auto Pay automatically withdraws payment from your account on the due date of your bill. Once you’ve registered your account number for online account management, opt for auto payments and input your method of payment. You can also opt to have electronic and/or paper statements.

7. How often will I receive a bill?

Bills for water and storm-water services shall be issued bimonthly by Ridgefield Utilities, and are required to be paid in full by the due date noted on the statement. You may download a utility billing calendar (PDF) for a detailed billing schedule.

8. When is the meter read?

To ensure accuracy, an automated radio reading is obtained every other month.

9. What if I cannot pay my bill?

Customers who are unable to pay their utility bill by the due date are encouraged to contact the Utility Billing Department to see if they qualify for other payment arrangements.

10. What happens if my utilities get disconnected?

Any customer who is disconnected for non-payment shall not be reconnected until payment of all charges and fees outlined in the Notice of Past Due Balance and Disconnection of Service is received, or a payment arrangement has been approved.

11. What if I have a leak?

When any customer becomes aware of a leak on his or her premises and the water usage is more than double the usage of the previous year during the same billing period, the customer may apply for an adjustment to their water bill. Please complete the Leak Adjustment form and return it with the appropriate documentation to the Utility Billing Department at:
510 Pioneer Street
Suite B
Ridgefield, WA 98642

12. For a new construction home, how do I get a water meter?

New construction: complete the water meter installation request form, usually new service will be installed within a week, but can take up to two weeks depending on staff availability.

13. Will I need a deposit?

No. The City of Ridgefield does not charge a deposit for new residential customers.

14. What rates does the City of Ridgefield charge for water and/or storm water utilities?

Rates for water and storm-water management are adopted by the Ridgefield City Council and are contained in the City’s Municipal Code.

• Water Service - Water bills are charged a base rate and a usage fee (usage measured in cubic feet).
• Stormwater Management (drainage) - Because all real property in the City contributes drainage runoff to and/or benefits from the City’s stormwater drainage system, charges are applied based on the cost of providing drainage service within the City.

15. Whom do I make the check out to when paying my water bill?

Checks for utility bills should be made payable to the “City of Ridgefield” and mailed to:
P.O. Box 608
Ridgefield, WA 98642

16. What are the payment deadlines and penalties for late payment of my water bill?

For your convenience, a Utility Billing Calendar (PDF), showing all payment due dates for the year, is available to ensure you do not miss a payment due date. A 10% penalty fee will be assessed on any outstanding balance after the payment due date.

17. What happens if I have an excess credit after my final bill?

Any credit remaining on a customer’s utility account after the final bill has been created shall be refunded to the customer in the form of a check issued by the City of Ridgefield and sent to the forwarding address that has been provided.

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Water Service - Backflow & Cross Connection

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1. Why is backflow prevention important?

Backflow into a public water system can pollute or contaminate the potable water in that system (i.e., backflow into a public water system can make the water in that system unusable or unsafe to drink). Water suppliers and consumers have a responsibility to provide water that is usable and safe to drink under all foreseeable circumstances.

2. I received a letter saying I need to install a backflow preventer. How do I do that?

The City of Ridgefield Public Works Department recommends contacting a licensed plumber.

3. I am a renter. Why did I receive a letter about the backflow preventer?

If you are renting a home or commercial space, your landlord or property management company would be responsible for obtaining a test.

4. I received a letter to test my backflow preventer at a home/property I sold previously. How do I update my information?

First, notify the Cross-Connection Program Coordinator, Lisa Blake, at 360-857-5010. Then, contact Utility Services to ensure your utility billing account is updated at 360-887-3557.

5. Why do backflow preventers have to be tested each year?

Backflow prevention assemblies have internal seals, springs, and moving parts that are susceptible to wear and failure. Yearly testing ensures they are functioning properly and protecting the public water system. It is required to protect the public water supply per WAC 246-290-490 and RMC 13.55.010.

6. Is there a general compliance schedule and process?

Generally, about 45 days prior to the test due date, the Public Works Department sends letters to all customers who are required to test their backflow assembly devices.

7. Do backflow testers work for the City of Ridgefield?

No. Backflow testers are independent private contractors. The City of Ridgefield does not install or test backflow assemblies. The State of Washington requires backflow tests to be performed by Certified Backflow Testers.

Review a list of City Approved and Certified Backflow Testers linked at the top of this page. This list is updated each year and requires testers to provide current year certifications. Tests performed and submitted by someone not on the city's approved and certified backflow testers list will be rejected and considered invalid until that vendor provides the city with their current year state/city approved credentials.

8. How do I know if I need to install a backflow preventer?

Residential customers are only required to install a backflow preventer if there is a potential cross-connection hazard. It is the customer's responsibility to notify us if an irrigation system or pool is installed. Backflow requirements vary for commercial/industrial customers based on the business's water use. Ridgefield's staff reviews newly established commercial/industrial water accounts to assess the degree of backflow hazard and notifies businesses about backflow requirements.

9. I don’t use my irrigation system. Do I still have to test and maintain my backflow preventer?

As long as the irrigation system is connected to your plumbing system, the potential for backflow exists, and you must comply with all backflow requirements, including having it tested each year.

To eliminate these backflow requirements, the irrigation system must be physically disconnected and removed from your plumbing system. Contact a certified backflow tester to schedule the removal and notification to the Cross-Connection Coordinator 360-857-5010. Public Works will schedule an inspection to confirm the backflow assembly has been removed and capped off.