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Air Quality

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1. What is in outdoor smoke that's dangerous?

Outdoor smoke contains very small particles and gases, including carbon monoxide. These particles can get into your eyes and lungs where they can cause health problems. Main sources of outdoor smoke in Washington:

• Wildfires.
• Wood stoves, pellet stoves, and fireplaces.
• Chemical or industrial fires.
• Agricultural burning.

2. What health problems does smoke cause?

• Eye, nose, and throat irritation (burning eyes and runny nose).
• Wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and headaches.
• Aggravation of existing lung, heart and circulatory conditions, including asthma and angina

3. Who is especially sensitive to smoke?

Inhaling smoke is not good for anyone, even healthy people. People most likely to have health problems from breathing smoke include:

• People with lung diseases such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including bronchitis and emphysema.
• People with respiratory infections, such as cold or flu.
• People with existing heart or circulatory problems, such as congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, and angina.
• People with a prior history of heart attack or stroke.
• Infants and children because their lungs and airways are still developing and they breathe more air per pound of body weight than adults.  
  • Read a detailed explanation of why children are sensitive, and what parents can do to assess risk and precautions they can take
  • See A Guide to help assess if outdoor activities are safe for children based on current air conditions
• Older adults over age 65. Adults age 65 and older may have unrecognized heart or lung disease.
• Smokers already have lower lung function or lung disease, and breathing smoke can make their conditions worse.
• Diabetics

4. How can I tell if smoke is affecting the air quality in my community?

• Check your local air quality at Washington Air Quality Advisory Map and Airwatch Northwest.
• Check wildfire locations on the Washington Smoke Information website

5. How can I tell if smoke is affecting my family?

• Smoke can cause coughing, scratchy throat, irritated sinuses, shortness of breath, chest pain, headaches, stinging eyes, and runny nose
• If you have heart or lung disease, smoke might make your symptoms worse
• People who have heart disease might experience chest pain, a rapid or irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, and fatigue
• If you have a pre-existing respiratory condition such as asthma, COPD (including chronic bronchitis and emphysema), or allergies, smoke may worsen symptoms (inability to breathe normally, cough with or without mucus, chest discomfort, wheezing, and shortness of breath)
• When smoke levels are high, even healthy people can have symptoms or health problems

Contact your health care provider if you have heart or lung problems when around smoke. Dial 911 for emergency assistance if symptoms are serious.

6. What can I do to protect myself and my family from outdoor smoke?

• Check local air quality reports and listen to news or health warnings for your community.
• Avoid physical exertion outdoors if smoke is in the air.
• See this detailed explanation of why children are sensitive, and what parents can do to assess risk and precautions they can take
• Access A Guide to help assess if outdoor activities are safe for children based on current air conditions.
• If you have asthma or other lung diseases, make sure you follow your doctor's directions about taking your medicines and follow your asthma management plan. Call your health care provider if your symptoms worsen.
• Stay indoors and keep indoor air as clean as possible. Take the following steps when indoors:    
  • Keep windows and doors closed. If there is no air conditioning and it is too hot to keep windows and doors closed, consider leaving the area.
  • Run an air conditioner (if you have one), set it to re-circulate and close the fresh-air intake. Make sure to change the filter regularly.
  • Use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to reduce indoor air pollution. A HEPA filter may reduce the number of irritating fine particles in indoor air. A HEPA filter with charcoal will help remove some of the gases from the smoke.
  • Don’t add to indoor pollution. Don’t use candles, fireplaces, or gas stoves. Don’t vacuum, because vacuuming stirs up particles already inside your home. Don’t smoke, because smoking puts even more pollution into the air.
  • Some room air cleaners can help remove smoke particles indoors. California’s air cleaning devices for the home fact sheet (PDF).
  • Information about keeping indoor air free of smoke: Improving Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality during Wildfire Smoke Events (PDF).

7. Should I use a face mask when there is outdoor smoke?

If you cannot leave the smoky area or find other ways to reduce your exposure, certain types of face masks can provide some protection. Respirator masks labeled N95 or N100 filter out fine particles but not hazardous gases (such as carbon monoxide). These masks can be found at many hardware and home repair stores and pharmacies. Face masks will not work for everyone.

• Masks do not work on people with beards or small children because they do not seal well enough to provide protection.
• Anyone with lung disease, heart disease, or who is chronically ill should consult a health care provider before using a mask. Wearing a mask makes it more difficult to breathe, which may worsen existing medical conditions.
• Wildfire Smoke and Face Masks Fact Sheet (PDF)

8. Can I use an air filter in my home to improve indoor air quality?

Some room air cleaners can reduce indoor air pollution if they have the proper filter. The most effective air cleaners have a HEPA filter which removes the fine particulates from smoke. HEPA filters with charcoal will remove or reduce chemicals in the air, but not carbon monoxide. Air filtration units should be located in the room where you spend most of your time.

For more information, see California's air cleaning devices for the home (PDF).

9. Should I exercise outdoors when it’s smoky?

Avoid outdoor exercise when air quality is in the “Unhealthy, Very Unhealthy, or Hazardous” categories. If you are sensitive to smoke, you should limit your outdoor activities when air quality is in the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” category. People with asthma and lung and heart conditions may be very sensitive to poor air quality and may start to have symptoms when air quality is in the “Moderate” category.

Check outdoor air quality to see the category for your area on the Washington Air Quality Advisory Map.

10. What should I do if I have to drive when it's smoky?

Avoid driving, when possible. If you must drive, keep the windows and vents closed. Most vehicles can re-circulate the inside air which will help keep particle levels lower.

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Auditor

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1. Do you accept debit/credit cards for payment in the Auditor's Office?

Debit/Credit cards are only accepted until 4:00pm each day.

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Before You Buy or Build

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1. What are my setbacks?

Setbacks are the minimum distance (measured in feet) from a building to the front, side and rear property lines or any other lot line to the nearest structure placed on the property, excluding eaves of less than 24 inches. Jefferson County’s minimum rear and side setbacks are 5 feet. Generally, Jefferson County’s setbacks are:

• 20 feet from minor collectors or local access
• 20 feet from private roads and ingress/egress easements
• 30 feet from any major collector roads
• 35 feet from any minor arterial roads
• 50 feet from any principal arterial roads

For more details, please review our: 

• Setbacks Brochure
• Critical Areas Buffers Brochure
• Single Family Residence Brochure

 

2. What is my zoning? What does it allow?

All parcels in the county are zoned for specific uses. There are 2 ways to view the zoning for the parcel you are interested in:

• For a quick view of zoning in a particular area in Eastern Jefferson County, view our Eastern Jefferson County Zoning map (this is a small map)
• For a quick view of zoning in a particular area in either Eastern or Western Jefferson County (this is a larger, more comprehensive map)
• For an interactive view of the zoning, click on this link to be taken to our interactive map and type the parcel number or address in the search bar.

Please refer to section 18.15.040 of the UDC (Unified Development Code) for the County for the definitions of the each of the zoning designations.

3. How many homes can I build on my property and what size?

The County allows parcels zoned Rural Residential 1:5 (RR 1:5), Rural Residential 1:10 (RR 1:10),an Rural Residential 1:20 (RR 1:20) to have:

• a house of any size (subject to land use limitations), plus 
• one (1) Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) that's 1,250 square feet or less (including garages and basements).

You can learn more about specific land uses by reviewing the chart in our Unified Development Code (UDC) in section 18.15.040.

If you are planning on purchasing any land and/or a home in Jefferson County, we highly recommend that you speak with a Land Use Planner (using the CAM process), especially if the parcel is on shoreline or on or near any critical areas. 

4. What permits are on my property?

Permits for any parcel can be found by visiting our Permit Database Search Tool. Once there, you can type in the parcel number or address to research all permits applied for and/or issued for a property.

Helpful Hints

• If a case is available for online viewing, the words "View LaserFiche Documents" will appear. Click on the words "View LaserFiche Documents" to view the scanned file.
  
• Cases are not scanned until they are finaled. If you would like to view a case file in process, please submit a Public Records Request and the file will be scanned and a link to the scanned documents provided to you.
• Not all finaled cases have been scanned. If you would like to view a case that has been finaled and not scanned, please submit a Public Records Request and the file will be scanned and a link to the scanned documents provided to you. 
• For the Road Name search, you do not have to provide the entire street name; the beginning of the street name will suffice.

5. Can I build a tiny home?

Building a tiny home as a residence is the same as a “regular” home (see brochure). The home needs to be sited outside any critical area buffers like streams and geohazardous areas (like landslide-prone areas). You would also need to hook it up to a septic system and have potable water. Check with Environmental Health on septic and water requirements at (360) 385-9444. If you have questions about the construction of the home, contact our Building Plans Examiner at (360) 379-4461.

Here’s a link to Labor and Industries regarding tiny homes: https://lni.wa.gov/licensing-permits/manufactured-modular-mobile-structures/tiny-homes/. 

6. Can I build a yurt?

Canvas yurts can be permitted as a temporary living structure, such as seasonal camping, but may not contain a heating element or plumbing and have size restrictions. In order for a yurt to meet code and be allowed, it must be less than 500 sq feet, unheated and unplumbed and only used for temporary use, such as camping. Yurts, built using a standard canvas exterior over a wooden frame, are not able to meet energy code for heat retention and do not meet the requirements for fire, life and safety and therefore are not permissible as a residence. With these guidelines, a yurt can be permitted along with the platform or decking it will be built upon. 

Hard-sided yurts are permitted so long as they meet energy code. Pre-engineered kits are available from online resources.

Please refer to Chapter 31 in the International Building Code (IBC) regarding Special Construction for more information.

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Birth Control/Family Planning

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1. Condoms

External
External condoms are thin, stretchy pouches that you wear on the penis during sex. Condoms provide great protection from both pregnancy and STDs. Condoms need to be placed on the penis before sex. They are easy to use and easy to get.

Internal 
Female or Internal condoms are inserted into the vagina to protect from pregnancy and/or sexually transmitted infections.

2. Cycle Beads

This is a way to track your menstrual cycle and when you are most fertile. This is an excellent method to assist in becoming pregnant.

3. Depo Shot

Depo (AKA Depo-Provera) is 94% effective and is an injection you get from a nurse or doctor once every 3 months. It’s a safe, convenient, and private birth control method that works really well if you get it on time. You can also learn to give your own injection, if you prefer.

4. Diaphragm and Fem Cap

The diaphragm and FemCap are barrier methods that are 75% effective and are only effective if used with spermicide and placed correctly in the vagina prior to any intercourse. It needs to remain in place for 8 hours after sexual activity.

5. Emergency Contraception

Like all birth control, emergency contraception is not 100% effective. We recommend getting a pregnancy test 2-3 weeks after taking emergency contraception, such as Ella or Plan B. 

Ella
Ella emergency contraception can prevent pregnancy up to 5 days after sex. It is more effective than other morning-after pills, but you need a prescription to get it, which means you need a provider to give it to you. Ella lowers your chances of getting pregnant by 85 percent if you take it within 5 days after unprotected sex.  

Plan B 
Plan B works best when you take it within 3 days after unprotected sex. You do not need a prescription for Plan B, it is available on a walk-in basis. Plan B can lower your chance of getting pregnant by 75-89% if you take it within 3 days after unprotected sex. 

6. Implant

The birth control implant (AKA Nexplanon) is 99% effective and is a tiny, thin rod about the size of a matchstick inserted in upper arm, just under skin. The implant releases hormones into your body that prevent you from getting pregnant. The implant is effective for three years, but can be removed sooner.

7. IUD

An IUD is 99% effective and a tiny device that is inserted in your uterus by a medical provider to prevent pregnancy. It is long-term, reversible, and one of the most effective birth control methods out there. The IUD is placed during an office visit and is effective from 5-10 years, depending on the type used.  We offer the following IUD’s at the clinics: ParaGard (copper) is good for 10 years, Mirena (8 years), and Kyleena (5 years) both have low-dose hormone.

8. NuvaRing

The birth control ring (AKA NuvaRing) is 91% effective and a safe, simple, and affordable birth control method that you wear inside your vagina. The small, flexible ring prevents pregnancy by releasing hormones into your body. You replace the ring each month and it is very effective if you always use it the right way.

9. Patches

The transdermal contraceptive patch is 91% effective and a safe, simple, and affordable birth control method that you wear on the skin of your belly, upper arm, butt, or back. Put a new patch on every week for 3 weeks, and it releases hormones that prevent pregnancy. Then you get a week off before you repeat the cycle. 

10. Pills

Birth control pills are 91% effective and a kind of medicine with hormones that you take every day to prevent pregnancy. There are many different brands of pills. The pill is safe, affordable, and effective if you always take it on time.

11. Referral for Vasectomy or Tubal Ligation

We do consultations for referrals for vasectomies or tubal ligations. 

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BOCC

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1. When do the County Commissioners meet?

The County Commissioners meet the first four Mondays of each month beginning at 9:00 a.m. If one of the first four Mondays is a holiday, they meet on Tuesday. They do no meet the fifth Monday week.

2. Can I provide public comment during a County Commissioner meeting?

Public comment period begins at 9:00 a.m. There is a three minute limit for each person commenting. Written comments are accepted at any time.

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Clerk

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1. What are the hours of operation?

The Courthouse building opens up at 8:30 a.m. and closes at 4:30 p.m. The Clerk's office is open during those hours. We answer phones from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday (excluding holidays), 360-385-9125.

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Community Development

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1. Do I need a permit for a small picnic pavilion on my property?

Do I need a permit for a small picnic pavilion on my property? I plan to have no water and no power going to it; just a roof for a picnic table.

Yes you would need a permit. Your project will be considered a "Pole Building." Here are the forms you will need to submit:

If this project will be in the City of Port Townsend then you will need to contact them at 360-379-5095. If your project will be within the county you will need the following:

• Submittal Checklist
• Site Plan Checklist
• Permit Application
• Supplemental Application
• Stormwater Calculation Worksheet
  • Stormwater Options and Guidance
  • Stormwater Flowchart

If there is a septic on the property you will need to get a septic review from Environmental Health. We call septic reviews "O&M"s (Operations and Maintenance inspections); depending on the type of system you have you either do this inspection once a year or once every three years. If there is not a septic on the property then you will not need that review.

 

 

2. How do I permit an addition to an existing house?

An addition to an existing house (like an additional bedroom) would require the following:

• Submittal Checklist
• Site Plan Checklist
• Permit Application
• Supplemental Application
• If adding square footage: Stormwater Calculation Worksheet
  • Stormwater Options and Guidance
  • Stormwater Flowchart
• If the new space will be heated, you will also need the Energy code
  • Energy Credits, Residential

If you follow the checklist you should have everything that you will need. If you have potable water on the property already, you will not have to prove potable water again, however if there is a septic on the property and you are adding another bedroom, a septic review is required. We call septic reviews "O&M"s (Operations and Maintenance inspections); depending on the type of system you have you either do this inspection once a year or once every three years.

For your floor plan we would like to have a before-and-after. Your building plans should only show the new work that is being done.

Lastly, if your property is located within shoreline or critical areas we recommend that you meet with one of our land use planners first to verify that you will not need some type of land use permit. You can walk in and meet with a Planner Monday-Thursday 10:30-12:00; additionally, Planners are available for scheduled appointments Tuesday-Thursday 1:30-4:30. The charge is $50 for every 30 minutes. Book time with a Planner here: https://www.co.jefferson.wa.us/facilities/facility/details/dcdstaffconsultations-3.

3. Who do I talk to about preliminary questions about building a structure or developing my property in Jefferson County?

  Customer Assistance Meeting (CAM)

To schedule a CAM

Call (360) 379-4465 or email your questions to: planning@co.jefferson.wa.us.  

Thank you!

 

Book an appointment with staff to discuss questions regarding your parcel. Examples include how critical area and shoreline regulations affect projects. This service gives customers a written product on project considerations, permit process, and feasibility.

What you need to know about this process:

•  Customer Assistance Meetings are still scheduled by calling (360) 379-4465 or by emailing Planning@co.jeffrson.wa.us 
• Customer Assistance Meetings last 30 minutes per meeting.
• Please prepare the following items before proceeding:
  • You will need to know your parcel number. 
  • You can research your parcel number by clicking here.
  • There are self-service options if this isn't the right fit.

 

By submitting this reservation request, Customer acknowledges that:

Information and guidance provided through Customer Assistance is advisory only and is based on information provided by the customer. This is not intended to be an exhaustive review of all potential issues. Any discussion or information provided shall not bind or prohibit the County’s future implementation or enforcement of all applicable laws and regulations. No statements or assurances made by County representatives shall in any way relieve the applicant of his or her duty to submit an application consistent with all relevant requirements of County, state and federal codes, laws, regulations, land use plans, and other requirements.

 

4. I want to build a stand-alone building to house my tools and it's over 400sqft, do I need a permit?

Do I need a permit for a building I want to put on my property for my tools and non-agriculture vehicles?  It will have no door, no windows, no heat, no water and no power going to it.

Yes you would need a permit. Here are the forms you will need to submit:

If this project will be in the City of Port Townsend then you will need to contact them at 360-379-5095. If your project will be within the county you will need the following:

• Submittal Checklist
• Site Plan Checklist
• Permit Application
• Supplemental Application
• Stormwater Calculation Worksheet
  • Stormwater Options and Guidance
  • Stormwater Flowchart

If there is a septic on the property you will need to get a septic review from Environmental Health. We call septic reviews "O&M"s (Operations and Maintenance inspections); depending on the type of system you have you either do this inspection once a year or once every three years. If there is not a septic on the property then you will not need that review.

Additionally, if you don't have an address on the site, you will need to apply for one.

5. I'm wondering how I would go about finding information about the zoning and development potential of a property in Jefferson County.

DCD offers a suite of options to answer questions and help plan development. Fees start at $50 for a 30 minute appointment. Customer Service fees up to $94 may be credited to a project application if the customer applies within one year from the date of the meeting or customer service provided.

1. Staff-Consultation Meeting by Appointment
   Tuesday-Thursday 1:00 pm-4:30 pm
   Book an appointment with staff to discuss questions and projects. We prefer that you schedule an appointment using our online scheduling calendar. Appointment times for this service are booked in 30 minute increments during our customer assistance hours of 1:00 pm-4:30 pm, Tuesday-Thursday. Customers must request appointments at least 48 hours in advance. Examples include how critical area and shoreline regulations affect projects.
2. Staff Consultation Walk-in Hours - This service is discontinued at this time. Online appts can be made using #1 above.
   Monday through Thursday 10:30 am-noon
   Alternatively, the department hosts walk-in hours 10:30 am-12:00 pm Monday-Thursday for consultations. Be advised that walk-in meeting times may be limited to 15-minutes with remaining time expended with follow-up email or phone call. 
3. Planning/Permit Path Study
   Many customers under contract for property purchase ask DCD questions to determine feasibility for projects before settlement. This service provides customers with a written product summarizing permit path and feasibility. DCD provides a product within 14 calendar days. A $200 fee is required for two hours DCD review and product preparation.* Please note that certain projects may require a pre-application conference. 
4. Self-Help
   For basic questions such as "What is my zoning?" or "What forms do I need to apply for a building permit?" we also have extensive self-help available online at: https://www.co.jefferson.wa.us/1379/Self-Help-Station & https://www.co.jefferson.wa.us/866/Self-Service
5. Septic and Water
   Monday-Friday 9:00 am-10:30 am
   DCD suggests customers who need water or septic feasibility information provide a conceptual site plan to obtain Jefferson County Environmental and Public Health comments (an additional hourly fee applies for this service). Customers seeking water or on-site septic system information should meet with Jefferson County Environmental Public Health prior to DCD (hours are Monday-Friday 9:00am-10:30am, located next door to DCD).

6. Does Jefferson County requires a pre-pour inspection?

Yes, we require setbacks and any foundation rebar to be inspected prior to pouring concrete. Also, you must wait until the permit has been approved and issued before beginning any work.

7. What do I need to do for a re-roof permit?

As long as there is no change to the type or pitch of the roof and the trusses are not being touched, re-roof permits are over-the-counter. Otherwise, you will want to speak with our Permit Tech about your project.

For over-the-counter permits, submit your Re-Roof Permit and be prepared to pay the re-roof permit fee as listed on page 2 of the permit.

8. Where can I find a copy of the county code?

You can find our code in several places on our website:

1. Our code can be accessed at this link: http://www.codepublishing.com/WA/JeffersonCounty/?JeffersonCounty18/JeffersonCounty18.html
2. You can also click on the "Unified Development Code (UDC) link (in the green area to the left) on our home page.
3. Lastly, you can learn more about our UDC and its relation to Critical Areas, the Shoreline Management Act, Land Use Permits and UDC Amendments by clicking here: https://wa-jeffersoncounty.civicplus.com/573/Unified-Development-Code-UDC

9. I am planning to install a fireplace insert. What forms do I need?

Fireplace insert permits fall under the category of Mechanical Permits. Fireplace insert permits are issued over-the-counter. You only need to submit one form, the Mechanical Permit Application and a site map. 

If you are installing new lines you will need to include the fee for adding the lines. More clearly stated:

• If you are applying for a permit to just install a fireplace insert, no new propane lines, the fees are:
  • Mechanical Fee
  • Project Scanning Fee
• If you are applying for a permit to install a fireplace insert with new propane lines, the fees are:
  • Mechanical Fee
  • Propane - Lines, tank and appliance Fee
  • Project Scanning Fee

These fees are listed on the second page of the permit application.

When you come in to submit the permit, bring with you a completed Mechanical Permit Application and site map and be prepared to pay the fees appropriate to your situation.

10. Do I need a permit to remodel a bathroom?

You only need to apply for a remodel permit if you are moving walls, changing or tapping into existing plumbing or need the modification to be noted for banking (selling, purchasing, etc.) or other legal purposes. Your permit may qualify for over-the-counter processing if no bedrooms are proposed to be added. Please review our Application Packets page for more details on the remodel application requirements.

11. Is it the property owner or the contractor's responsibility to submit permits?

The homeowner is responsible to submit all permits, but contractors often include it as a convenience for their clients. Check with your contractor to see if they plan to submit for you or not.

12. Does my ductless heat pump need to be installed above the flood plain?

Yes, electrical, heating, ventilation, plumbing, and air-conditioning equipment and other service facilities need to be installed above the flood plain. Pursuant to UDC 15.15.080 Provisions for flood hazard reduction section (1)(b)(iii), "electrical, heating, ventilation, plumbing, and air-conditioning equipment and other service facilities shall be designed and/or otherwise elevated or located so as to prevent water from entering or accumulating within the components during conditions of flooding. Locating such equipment below the base flood elevation may cause annual flood insurance premiums to be increased."

13. What is the minimum height for a deck before it requires a rail?

The minimum height for a deck before it requires a rail is 30 inches.

14. Who do I call about installing road name signs?

For installing road name signs, call Public Works' shop at (360) 385-0890. For all other sign questions please complete a CAM request form and send to DCD.

15. How do I name a road?

If you have property off of a named road, you may optionally name it at any time. You MUST name your road if your road extends more than 1,000 feet from a named road and/or if the road has four or more assigned emergency locator numbers on it.

Forms

The forms below will assist you in the road naming process:

• Road Naming Petition
• Road Naming Brochure
• Road Naming FAQs

Please contact the Department of Community Development for a list of current road names in use.

Cost

The cost to the petitioner to name a road is $455.18. If there are emergency locator number already assigned to adjoining parcel owners that will be serviced by the road, there will be no additional cost to have their address changed to the new road name. If there are adjoining parcel owners that are not currently assigned an emergency locator number and they would like one, the cost is $115 for each emergency locator number assigned (new addresses are typically $276).

Overview of Process

• Submit the Road Naming Petition with 3 potential names, in order of preference.
  • It is highly advisable that the petitioner contact neighbors first to discuss possible road names (It’s always nicer to hear from your neighbor before hearing from the county, road naming is difficult enough)
  • Get as many neighbors as possible to sign off on road names proposed.
  • Make sure that the three name choices include a road type such as Road, Drive, Street, Way, Place, etc. An application containing less than three choices will be returned as invalid. Alteration of any signature without the initialed (or written) consent of each petitioner will invalidate the petition and it will not be processed. Verbal consent to any alteration will not be accepted.
  • Make sure to include a map with the road highlighted
• Adjoining parcel owners (APOs) are notified of road naming process
  • APOs are given 21 days to respond with desired name changes
• Road names are submitted to local fire department and JEFFCOMM (the County’s emergency dispatch department) for approval
• The top ranked approved road name will be assigned to the road
• Department of Community Development staff will come out to the site and physically measure the road and assign the addresses

 

16. What do I need to do to be able to do to demolish a building?

If you would like to demolish a building, you will need to submit a Demolition Form to both Community Development and Olympic Regional Clean Air Agency (ORCAA).

If you choose to demo, please complete the following steps:

1. Go to the ORCAA website (https://www.orcaa.org/asbestos-demolition-programs/demolition-notification/) and fill out their Demolition Notification Application and pay any applicable fees;
2. Fill out our demolition form located here: http://www.co.jefferson.wa.us/documentcenter/view/530 and submit it (by email, mail or drop-off) with proof of the ORCAA notification, a copy of the receipt, and a Site Plan;
   1. We always recommend meeting with a Land Use Planner to discuss your property before making any significant changes on your property.
3. Once we receive your packet we will issue you an invoice which you will be able to pay online or over the phone.

17. What do I need to submit if I only want to build a garage?

The documents required to build a garage are the same as a regular building permit, but we only need the items that apply to your project. Here are the exact forms and documents required for a complete submittal of a Garage Permit Application:

Forms and documents required for a complete submittal of a Garage Permit Application:

• Permit Application
• Supplemental Building Application
• Stormwater Calculation Worksheet
• Site Plan (no larger than 11” x 17”, see checklist)
• Floor Plan (no larger than 11” x 17”)
• Building Plans (any size)
• Energy Code Calculation Worksheet – (If Garage has heated space)
• New Address Application (if an address is not already assigned)
• Road approach permit with Public Works (If driveway is off of County road and does not already exist)

If you are going to put plumbing in the garage then you will need to comply with Environmental Health’s requirements with septic/sewage.

For an estimate of permit fees send an email to dcd@co.jefferson.wa.us stating the square footage, estimated cost of the project, and the project description.

18. What are my permit fees? How do I get a fee estimate?

Most permits have the fees listed on the back of the application. If your application does not list the fees, or if you need an estimate for new building application we can provide you with an estimate of those fees.

Please email the project info listed below to dcd@co.jefferson.wa.us

• Project location, address or parcel number
• Cost of project
  • If customer plans to do the work themselves, they must include the cost of  their labor
• Square footage of project
  • Complete square footage, including upstairs if it is 2-story
  • Garage
  • Porch (deck)
• Septic and water (does the client plan to have septic and water on the property? Are they on sewer?) Public water vs. well.
• Critical areas including wetlands, shoreline, and slopes

19. What are the rules regarding fences and gates?

Fences are exempt from building permits if they are under 7 feet high and not on shoreline (or in an area with critical areas). This information can be found on the 2nd page of Brochure #30: Single Family Residence: https://www.co.jefferson.wa.us/DocumentCenter/View/627/Single-Family-Residence-PDF?bidId=

Fences cannot be built within the County right-of-way. If the property line is close to a road, Public Works would most likely require the clear zone be met as we do for utility structures (poles, vaults, etc.).  For example, on a 25 mph road, the setback would be 10 feet from the edge of pavement.  Additionally, a fence cannot block site distance. Setback information can be found here: https://www.co.jefferson.wa.us/DocumentCenter/View/618/Residential-Setbacks-PDF?bidId=

A fence, no matter what the material, is still a fence over seven feet. For example, a barbed wire fence in a pasture that is 5' high and all barbed wire and posts is still a fence. The intent of the code though is concerned with the fence over 7' high becoming a sail or just falling over and causing more damage than a 5' high fence made of the same material.

20. What does it mean that me new address review has "triggered road naming?"

When reviewing a request for a new address, we check to see whether or not the location of the requested address is off of an unnamed road or not. If an address application is received for a site on an unnamed road that is more than 1,000 feet from a named road or for a site on an unnamed road that has an existing addressed site that is more than 1,000 feet from a named road, or if an application is received for a fourth emergency locator number on an unnamed road The road shall be named at the expense of the applicant. You can learn more about the road naming process at the following links:

• Road Naming FAQ: https://www.co.jefferson.wa.us/DocumentCenter/View/3756/FAQ-Road-Naming--Addressing?bidId=
• Road Naming Instructions: https://www.co.jefferson.wa.us/DocumentCenter/View/3677/Instructions-to-Name-or-Change-the-Name-of-a-Road?bidId=
• Road Naming Petition: https://www.co.jefferson.wa.us/DocumentCenter/View/3653/Road-Name-Petition?bidId=

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Community Health

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1. Can I make an appointment just to talk about different birth control options?

Yes! Birth control and women’s health is our specialty and we are happy to provide complete information about all types of birth control. You can choose to just discuss information, or you can start a method right away.

2. Do I have to get a pap smear before starting birth control?

No. We start women on birth control right away. We also evaluate the need for recommended testing and exams and will discuss this with you.

3. Do I need a pap smear every year?

Usually not. Recommendations have recently changed, and if your last few pap smears were normal, your next pap smear will be due 3 years later. We still recommend yearly annual exams, to check blood pressure, health needs and STD screening but pelvic exam may not be needed each year.

4. Do you only see women?

We welcome people of all genders at all of our clinics.

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Coroner

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1. Does an autopsy have to be done?

No, this is dependent on the circumstances surrounding the death.

2. How do I get a death certificate?

Death certificates are generated by your funeral home or cremation service.  Your funeral director or cremation service director will assist you in obtaining death certificates.  Death certificates may also be obtained from the Jefferson County Health Department.  https://www.jeffersoncountypublichealth.org/739/Birth-Death-Records

3. Can I get a copy of the autopsy report?

Only if you are next of kin to the deceased.  We require that you fill out a release form and provide valid picture ID before releasing the report.  If you are next of kin, and are unable to come in person, please call 360-385-9182 and arrangements can be made to mail or email the release to you.  We still require to see a color copy of valid picture ID and this can be discussed when you call the office.

4. How long does it take to get an autopsy report from the medical examiner?

Preliminary information is usually available at the end of the procedure or by the next working day.  Final autopsy reports become ready after the results of toxicology and any other special examinations have been received.  Typically, this may take up to 1-1/2 months.  Complex cases may sometimes take up to 3 months before a final report is complete.

5. Can the autopsy determine the exact time of death?

No, a time range for post mortem interval is usually all that is possible.

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County Employment

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1. How do I apply for a job at Jefferson County?

Click here for current openings.

Send completed employment application form to the Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners by 4:30 pm of the listed announcement closing date. Applicants are always highly encouraged to submit a resume with their application.

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COVID-19 FAQs

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1. What does "outside your household" mean?

The term "people outside your household" means anyone you don’t live with. This includes close family members you don’t currently live with.

2. Do I have to wear a mask? Should I wear a mask?

There are still some instances where all people, even those who are vaccinated, may need to wear a mask. Click here to visit our Face Coverings page and learn more. 

3. What is the treatment for COVID-19?

There are some medications available that have been shown to decrease the duration and severity of symptoms in patients hospitalized for COVID-19.

4. Does smoking increase your risk developing serious complications from COVID-19?

People who smoke may be more likely to develop serious health complications from COVID-19. Smoking weakens the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off viral infections - especially those attacking the lungs, like COVID-19. Additionally, initial findings suggest that vaping may increase lung inflammation and exacerbate lung infections. Need help quitting? Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW or visit doh.wa.gov/quit

5. What should you do if you don't have health insurance?

If you do not have health insurance, you should see if your income qualifies you for free coverage (www.hca.wa.gov). You can enroll in Medicaid year-round through Washington's Health Benefit Exchange (www.wahealthplanfinder.org). If you need an individual health plan, you have until May 8 to sign up for a health plan by calling the exchange at 1-855-923-4633. After May 8, you must qualify for a special enrollment to get covered.

If you believe you need to be tested for coronavirus, you should contact a local medical provider first. Find a local community clinic (www.wacommunityhealth.org) near you.

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COVID-19 Vaccine FAQs

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1. How are COVID-19 vaccines made?

This short video explains how COVID vaccines are made

2. How will a COVID-19 vaccine work in my body?

The COVID-19 vaccine teaches your immune system to recognize the coronavirus. When you get the vaccine, your immune system makes antibodies (“fighter cells”) that stay in your blood and protect you in case you are infected with the virus. You get protection against the disease without having to get sick.

When enough people in the community can fight off the coronavirus, it has nowhere to go. This means we can stop the spread quicker and get a little closer to ending this pandemic.

• Watch this video on how vaccines work in your body

3. What are the ingredients in COVID-19 vaccines?

You may see some rumors and untrue ingredients listed online or in social media. These are generally myths. The ingredients in the COVID-19 vaccines are pretty typical for vaccines. They contain the active ingredient of mRNA or modified adenovirus along with other ingredients like fat, salts, and sugars that protect the active ingredient, help it work better in the body, and protect the vaccine during storage and transport.

See this Q&A webpage from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia for more information about ingredients. You can also find the full ingredients lists in the Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson fact sheets. 

4. What is an mRNA vaccine?

A messenger RNA, or mRNA vaccine is a new type of vaccine. mRNA vaccines teach your cells how to make a harmless piece of the “spike protein.” The spike protein is what you see on the surface of the coronavirus. Your immune system sees that the protein doesn’t belong there and your body will start to build an immune response and make antibodies. This is similar to what happens when we “naturally” get a COVID-19 infection.

Although we have used mRNA for other types of medical and veterinary care in the past, creating vaccines using this method is a huge leap forward in science and may mean future vaccines can be created more easily.

You may read more about how mRNA vaccines work on CDC’s website, or watch this video from Dr. Paul Offit at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

5. What is a viral vector vaccine?

This type of vaccine uses a weakened version of a different virus (the “vector”) that gives your cells instructions. The vector enters a cell and uses the cell’s machinery to create a harmless piece of the COVID-19 spike protein. The cell displays the spike protein on its surface, and your immune system sees that it doesn’t belong there. Your immune system will start to make antibodies and activate other immune cells to fight off what it thinks is an infection. Your body learns how to protect you against future infection with COVID-19, without you having to get sick.

6. What types of symptoms are normal after receiving the vaccine?

Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson – Janssen COVID-19 vaccines

Like other routine vaccines, the most common side effects are a sore arm, fatigue, headache, and muscle pain.

These symptoms are a sign that the vaccine is working. In the Pfizer and Moderna trials, these side effects occurred most often within two days of getting the vaccine, and lasted about a day. Side effects were more common after the second dose than the first dose. In the Johnson & Johnson clinical trials, side effects lasted an average of one to two days. 

For all three vaccines, people over 55 were less likely to report side effects than younger people.

Clinical trials found that approximately:

Pfizer

• Eighty percent of people reported pain at the injection site
• Fifty percent of people reported fatigue and headache
• Thirty percent of people reported muscle pain

Moderna

• Ninety percent of people reported pain at the injection site
• Seventy percent of people reported fatigue and headache
• Sixty percent of people reported muscle pain

Johnson & Johnson 

• Sixty percent of people reported pain at the injection site
• Forty-five percent of people reported fatigue and headache
• Forty percent of people reported muscle pain 

You may see some rumors about untrue side effects online or on social media. Make sure any time you see a claim about a side effect that you check the source of that claim. This video can teach you more about how to figure out if a claim online is true or not.

7. Can I get the COVID-19 vaccine if I've had an allergic reaction to a vaccine in the past?

The vaccine should not be given to people with a known history of severe allergic reaction, such as anaphylaxis, to a previous dose of an mRNA or viral vector vaccine, or to any ingredient of the Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, or Johnson & Johnson–Janssen COVID-19 vaccines.

People who have had a severe allergic reaction to other vaccines or injectable therapies may still be able to receive the vaccine. However, providers should do a risk assessment and counsel them about potential risks. If the patient decides to get the vaccine, the provider should observe them for 30 minutes to monitor for any immediate reactions.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends that providers observe all other patients for at least 15 minutes after receiving the vaccine to monitor for an allergic reaction. See ACIP’s interim clinical considerations for mRNA vaccines for more information.

8. Can I get the COVID-19 vaccine if I'm pregnant, lactating or planning to become pregnant?

Yes. People who are pregnant, lactating, or planning to become pregnant may choose to get the vaccine any time. 

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend you talk with your health care provider about whether the vaccine is right for you. While safety data on the use of COVID-19 vaccine in pregnant people is limited, the information we have is reassuring.  

If you would like to speak to someone about getting the COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy, please contact MotherToBaby. MotherToBaby experts are available to answer questions in English or Spanish by phone or chat. The free and confidential service is available Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (local time). To reach MotherToBaby:

• Call 1-866-626-6847
• Chat live or send an email to MotherToBaby

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District Court - Charged With a Crime FAQs

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1. What are my constitutional rights?

All persons accused of any crime or traffic offense that might result in a jail sentence have the following rights:
- To have a lawyer present with you at all hearings.
- To have a lawyer appointed at public expense if you cannot afford to hire one to represent you.
- To represent yourself without a lawyer.
- To a speedy and public trial by a judge or a jury in the county where the crime is alleged to have been committed.
- To remain silent before and during trial, and to refuse to testify against yourself.
- To hear and question the witnesses who testify against you.
- To have witnesses testify for you. These witnesses can be made to appear at no expense to you.
- To be presumed innocent until the charge is proven beyond a reasonable doubt or you enter a plea of guilty.
- To appeal a determination of guilt after a trial.

2. Should I talk to a lawyer before entering a plea?

In many cases this is a good idea. The judge, at your request, will continue the arraignment. If you wish to plead not guilty at this time, the judge will request that you have your lawyer put in a Notice of Appearance within 7 days. If you fail to appear at any hearing, your bond or bail will be forfeited and the judge will issue a warrant for your arrest.

3. How do I obtain a lawyer if I cannot afford one?

There are Public Defender applications available at the clerks window. If you intend to ask the court to appoint a lawyer to represent you, you will need to fill out one of these forms. You will also need to provide proof of income & your financial situation. At arraignment, if you tell the judge that you cannot afford to hire a lawyer, the court will provide you with an application.

If appointed you will be given the business card of your attorneys office and advised to contact them ASAP. They will not contact you.

4. If I plead guilty, what happens?

If you plead guilty it means you admit the charge and the elements to prove the charge. By pleading guilty you waive your constitutional rights and in most cases you will be sentenced immediately. Before announcing the sentence, the judge will ask if you have anything to say on your behalf. The judge will have reviewed the police report, if available. In some cases the judge will refer you to a probation officer for a pre-sentence investigation. In such a case the sentencing will be continued until the probation officer’s report is ready.

5. What happens if I plead not guilty?

A not guilty plea denies the charge and none of your constitutional rights are waived unless you expressly wish to do so. The next hearing will be a pre-trial hearing where the prosecutor will be present. You and your lawyer, if you have one, are required to be present. At this hearing all motions are heard and a jury trial date is set or confirmed if already set. Information about the evidence and witnesses in the case are exchanged. You are presumed innocent and the prosecution must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at a trial.

6. What alternatives are there for serving a jail sentence?

Please contact your attorney or ask the court at your hearing about any alternatives to serving jail time.

7. What must I do if I can't pay my fine today?

All fines, costs and fees are due in full at the time of sentencing unless you are given the option to sign a payment agreement with the court. The court clerk will set up a payment plan in writing and give you a copy. Payments can be mailed in or delivered in person at the court office. There are also options to pay online or over the phone by contacting NCourt at 1-877-793-8935 or visiting www.jeffersonwatix.com. Please have your case/citation number & your personal information ready prior to contacting the court or NCourt. Payment by cash, check or money order is acceptable at the clerks window. It is recommended that you do not send cash by mail.

8. What is a suspended sentence?

Often a judge will suspend imposition of a portion, or all, of a jail sentence on the condition of timely complying with various orders. If the conditions are satisfied the jail sentence is never served. If any condition is violated then you may be required to return to court for a hearing and possible serving of the jail sentence. In many cases the District Court Probation Department will supervise your compliance with sentence conditions. Probation may also assist with arrangements for education or treatment programs.

9. What if I have a change of address?

Notify the court immediately if your address changes at any time. If you are represented by a attorney, please also notify them immediately. The clerks office can be reached at (360) 385-9135.

10. How do I know what court to go to?

Start by reading the entire ticket, both front and back. The court’s name, address and telephone number should be printed on your copy. Instructions explaining how to respond are also included. If you have lost your copy of the citation or infraction ("ticket"), contact the nearest county district court office to where the incident occurred. Most courts now have computer access to an index of cases filed in most limited jurisdiction courts in the state. Even if you contact the wrong court office, court staff should be able, in most cases, to direct you to the correct court.

11. What is the address of District Court?

Physical- 1820 Jefferson St Port Townsend, WA 98368
Mailing - PO Box 1220 Port Townsend, WA 98368

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District Court - Domestic Violence

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1. What is domestic violence?

The social definition is that it is a pattern of behavior used to establish and maintain power and control over an intimate partner. Domestic violence consists of physical, sexual, psychological, and/or emotional abuse. Without intervention domestic violence can become more destructive over time and can become lethal.

2. What is the legal definition of domestic violence?

Domestic violence includes but is not limited to any one of the following crimes when committed by 1 family or household member against another:
- Assault
- Reckless endangerment
- Burglary
-Criminal trespass
- Malicious mischief
- Kidnapping
- Unlawful imprisonment
- Violation of a Restraining Order, No Contact Order, Protection Order
- Stalking

A family or household member is defined as:
- Spouse, former spouse, persons who have a child in common
- Adult persons related by blood or marriage
- Adult persons who presently (or in the past) reside(d) together
- Persons 16 years and older who have or had a dating relationship
- Persons who have a biological or legal parent-child relationship

3. What is a criminal no contact order?

This is a criminal order available to victims of domestic violence after criminal charges are filed. The victim may ask the Court or prosecutor to request a no contact order. This order can protect the victim during the court criminal process. A no contact order can also be issued at sentencing.

This order, which is issued by a judge, prohibits the person charged with a crime from contacting the victim of crime by phone, letter, or through third party, including messages through friends and relatives. Any violation is a gross misdemeanor and often arrest is mandatory.

4. What is an order for protection?

This is a civil order that is available to victims of domestic violence who have been assaulted, stalked, threatened and/or who are fearful of imminent physical harm, bodily injury, or assault by a family or household member. This order is obtained by the victim by filing a petition at Jefferson County District Court. There is no cost in obtaining this order. You may be asked questions by the staff member assisting you to determine whether or not the matter needs to be filed alternatively in Superior Court.

The order for protection generally is granted for one year. However, it can be issued for longer than 1 year under certain circumstances. A victim may request that an order be renewed before it expires. At any time prior to the expiration date, the petitioner may make a request to the court to modify or terminate the order.

The order prohibits contact by the respondent, restrains the respondent from committing further acts of violence, excludes the respondent from the petitioner's residence, school, or workplace, etc. The respondent may be arrested or issued a citation for violation of this order.

5. What is an anti-harassment order?

This is a civil court order obtained by filing a petition in District Court. The petitioner does not need an attorney for the anti-harassment process but may choose to obtain legal counsel. This order is available to a person who has been seriously alarmed, annoyed, or harassed by a willful course of conduct which serves no legitimate or lawful purpose. It is not necessary that the parties be family or household members. This order can prohibit contact, directly or indirectly, by phone, mail or in person, and exclude the responding party from a residence, workplace, or school of petitioner.

If the order is violated, the respondent may be arrested and/or charged with a gross misdemeanor. There can also be contempt charges.

6. Can domestic violence charges be dropped?

A police officer responding to a domestic violence incident must complete a police report whether or not an arrest occurs. The Prosecuting Attorney's Office will review the police report to determine whether or not to file charges. If charges are filed, only the prosecutor has the authority to drop them. A judge must approve the prosecutor's request to dismiss a case. The victim is a witness for the State and has no authority to drop charges. In many cases, the State will prosecute a case even if the victim refuses to testify.

7. Why did the police make an arrest?

The law requires a police officer responding to an incident of domestic violence to make an arrest if the officer has probable cause to believe that a domestic violence assault or other serious domestic violence offense was committed. If the officer determines that family or household members have assaulted each other, the officer will arrest only the person he or she believes to be the primary aggressor. State law also requires mandatory arrest for violations of No Contact Orders and Civil Protection Orders.

A person arrested for a domestic violence offense will usually be held in jail until he/she appears before a judge, usually the following day. The Court may require a defendant charged with domestic violence to sign a No Contact Order as a condition for release from jail prior to trial.

8. Is it a crime to interfere with a 911 call?

A person who commits a domestic violence offense may be charged with a separate crime of interfering with the reporting of domestic violence if that person prevents or attempts to prevent a victim or witness from calling 911, obtaining medical assistance, or making a report to any law enforcement official. Interfering with reporting is a gross misdemeanor, punishable by up to 365 days in jail and a $5,000 fine.

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District Court - Jury Duty

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1. Why is jury duty important?

The United States Constitution and the Washington State Constitution guarantees all people the right to trial by an impartial jury. Justice ultimately depends in large measure on the jurors who serve in our courts.

2. What is my duty as a juror?

As a juror, you must be fair and impartial. Your actions and decisions must be free of any bias or prejudice. You must apply the law given by the judge to the facts given during the trial to make a decision in a case.

3. How was I selected for jury duty?

You were selected at random from lists of voter registrations, driver registrations, and Washington State identification cards for residents of Jefferson County.

4. Who is eligible for jury duty?

Jurors must be:
- Able to communicate in the English language
- At least 18 years of age
- Citizen of the United States
- Of sound mind
- Reside in Jefferson County

You cannot serve on a jury if you have been convicted of a felony and your civil rights have not been restored. If you are in doubt about your eligibility for jury service, you may contact the Jury Manager:
Jefferson County District Court
P.O. Box 1220
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Phone: 360-385-9131

5. How long does jury duty last?

Jury duty in Jefferson County Superior Court is generally 1 to 4 days. However, if you are seated on a jury, your service may be continued to the following week to complete a trial. Jurors are required to serve for the duration of a trial. Jury duty in Jefferson County District Court is generally 1 or 2 days. However, if you are seated on a jury, your service may be continued to the following week to complete a trial. Jurors are required to serve for the duration of a trial.

6. Who can be excused from jury service?

Very few people are excused from jury duty once your term has started. Jurors will be excused only upon a demonstration of undue hardship or extreme inconvenience or for other reasons provided by law.

Prior to your term starting, please inform the Jury Manager if you have a physical or mental infirmity which prevents you from serving. You will likely be instructed to have your medical provider send written notice to the court for either a temporary or permanent excusal.

7. Can jury duty be rescheduled?

Yes. If you wish to defer your jury duty to a more convenient date, you must state the reason that you cannot serve during the scheduled time. You can contact our Jury Manager at (360) 385-9131 or send written requests to:

Jury Manager
Jefferson County District Court
P.O. Box 1220
Port Townsend, WA 98368

8. What type of cases are heard by jurors?

Jurors may be selected for District or Superior Court cases ranging from misdemeanors, such as, driving under the influence of alcohol to felonies such as first degree murder. Civil matters are heard in both Courts.

9. Are jurors paid for jury service?

Jurors are paid $15 per day. Checks are usually mailed within 30 days after the completion of jury service.

10. Must my employer pay me while I am on jury duty?

Your employer is not required to pay you while you are on jury duty. However, an employer shall provide an employee with a sufficient leave of absence from employment to serve as a juror when that employee is summoned pursuant to RCW 2.36.

11. When and where do I report for jury duty?

There will be signs in the courthouse directing you where to go to sign in for jury duty. First day jurors report at 9 a.m (or 8:30 am in some cases). On subsequent days, jurors will be told what time to report. Please be prompt. 1 late juror can waste the time of the many persons involved in a trial.

Always call the Jury Information Line at (360) 385-9131 after 4:00 pm on the business day before the trial is scheduled to begin to confirm whether or not to appear.

12. What is the order of events in the trial?

After the jury is selected, the trial will generally follow a set order of events, view the Order of Events in the Trial page.

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District Court - Small Claims

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1. Who can sue and be sued?

Any individual, business, partnership, or corporation (with a couple of exceptions) may bring a small claims suit for recovery of money only for an amount up to $5,000.

2. How much does it cost to file a claim?

A small claims case may be filed in Jefferson County if that is the defendant's residence, or in the case of a traffic accident, or an unlawfully issued check, if the accident occurred or the check was issued in Jefferson County. The State of Washington may not be sued in Small Claims Court. A Notice of Small Claim form is provided by the Court. The clerk will assist with this procedure, but the clerk is prohibited by law from giving legal advice. At the time of filing, the plaintiff must pay a filing fee of $50 in Jefferson County. The plaintiff is then given an appearance date and a copy of the claim form to be served upon the defendant. It is the responsibility of the plaintiff to accurately identify the defendant (either as an individual, a corporation, or as an individual or a corporation doing business under another name), provide a proper address (for the defendant) and, if possible, provide the defendant’s telephone number.

3. How do I file against a corporation?

Because many corporations do business under an assumed trade name, you must have the correct name and address of the Corporation you wish to sue: i.e., XYZ Co., Inc. (or incorporated, or Ltd.). In order to obtain service, you must have the name of the Office Manager, Corporate President, Secretary, Cashier, Managing Agent or Registered Agent. If you do not have this information, you may contact the Secretary of the State, Division of Corporate Records, in Olympia at 360-753-7115, Monday to Friday between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m.

You may file your small claim action in the Jefferson County District Court if the corporation does business in Jefferson County, the corporate office is located in Jefferson County, or the Registered Agent is located in Jefferson County. (RCW 4.66.040(6)). When completing the Notice of Small Claim form you should list the corporation name and the office address or the name and address of the Registered Agent.

Service on a corporation is obtained by serving the Registered Agent, Corporate President, Secretary, Treasurer, Managing Agent, or the Secretary or Office Assistant of the President, Secretary, Treasurer, or Managing Agent. (RCW 23A.08.110; 23A.32.200; 4.28.080(9)).

4. How do I file against a sole proprietorship, partnership or a DBA?

You must name as defendant the individual partner, partners or in the case of a sole proprietorship, the owner of the non-incorporated company. If you do not have the information, you may call the City or County Business License Office where the business is located. When completing the Notice of Small Claim form, you must list the Partner/Owner names and addresses with the DBA (company name).

You may file your small claim against a partnership or sole proprietorship in Jefferson County District Court, if one of the partners or sole proprietor resides in Jefferson County, or if the business is located in Jefferson County.

5. Can I counterclaim a charge?

The defendant may file a counterclaim against the plaintiff for any money he believes the plaintiff owes him, but this must be done immediately upon receipt of the claim of the plaintiff. A counterclaim must be filed and served in the same manner as the original claim. In other words, the defendant will have to pay a separate filing fee of $39 and fill out a Notice of Small Claim form to be served on the plaintiff.

6. How is the Notice of Small Claim form served?

It is the responsibility of the plaintiff (or the defendant for a counterclaim) to see that the Notice of Small Claim form is served upon the opposing party no less than 10 days prior to the trial date. The Court will not serve notice on the other party, learn more by viewing the Serving the Notice page.

7. When will the case be heard?

Cases are generally heard between 30 and 90 days from the date of filing. You will be given a date and time to appear. There will be other small claims disputes scheduled for the same date and time as yours.

8. What is a typical case?

Typical cases involve, but are not limited to, auto accidents, property damage, landlord/tenant disputes and collection of personal debts.

9. What if we settle?

If you settle the dispute before the hearing, you must inform the Court so the hearing can be canceled and your case dismissed. If the other party agrees to pay at a later date, you may ask the Court for a continuance. If the other party pays before the postponed date, ask the Court to cancel the hearing. If you do not receive your money by the time of the continued hearing, proceed with the case in Court. If you drop the suit, your filing fee and service costs are not returned.

10. What is first appearance mediation?

At the first appearance, an employee or agent (not an attorney) may appear on your behalf if that employee/agent has sufficient facts in order to present the case and is authorized to bind the party represented. If the plaintiff and defendant both appear on the assigned first appearance date, it is mandatory that they participate in mediation to attempt to settle their dispute. In most cases, neither party is one hundred percent right nor wrong. You are encouraged to try to settle your case before trial. The case will be assigned to a trained mediator and mediation will follow immediately as scheduling permits. Mediation is mandatory before a trial is allowed. The purpose of mediation is to settle the case if possible; if no settlement is made at mediation, the case will be set for trial. Attorneys and paralegals may not represent parties at mediation. If the parties have already submitted the case to another type of mediation or arbitration service, the case may proceed directly to trial.

If agreement is reached the parties will sign an agreement which will be entered into the record. Parties will receive a copy of the agreement. No judgment will be entered. If the agreement is breached, the non-breaching party may return to the Court for judgment after filing a motion and affidavit setting forth the failure to comply with the terms of the agreement. A copy of this motion and affidavit MUST be served on the other party and proof of that service presented to the Court prior to the Court entering a judgment.

If the plaintiff fails to appear at first appearance, a dismissal will be entered. In cases where the defendant has filed a written counterclaim against the plaintiff and proof of service is presented, the defendant may be allowed judgment against the plaintiff on the counterclaim. If the defendant fails to appear and proof of service is presented, and if the plaintiff’s testimony supports the claim, the plaintiff will be granted a default judgment against the defendant up to the amount set forth in the Notice of Small Claim form and for costs of filing and service. If neither party appears the case will be dismissed without prejudice.

11. What happens at the trial?

When you arrive at the Court, report to the District Court clerk’s office. When your case is called in the courtroom, come forward and the judge will swear in all the parties and witnesses. Don't be nervous-remember that a trial in small claims court is informal. The judge will ask the plaintiff to give his or her side first, then will ask the defendant for his or her explanation. Be brief and stick to the facts. The judge may interrupt you with questions, which you should answer to the best of your knowledge.

Be polite, not just to the judge, but also to your opponent. Do not interrupt. Whatever happens, keep your temper. Good manners and an even temper help the fair, efficient conduct of the trial and make a good impression.

12. How do I collect my money?

A money judgment in your favor does not necessarily mean that the money will be paid. The Small Claims Court does not collect the judgment for you. If no appeal is taken and the judgment is not paid within 30 days, or the time set by the Court in the payment plan, you may request (in writing) that the judgment be transferred into the civil docket of the Court. At that time you may proceed with a method of collection such as garnishment of wages, bank accounts, and other monies of the defendant or an execution may be issued on cars, boats, or other personal property of the judgment debtor. Remember, the clerks are prohibited by law from providing you legal advice. You may need the assistance of an attorney or collection agency at this point. In the alternative, upon payment of $20, you will receive a transcript of judgment which you can file in the Superior Court for a fee of $15.

Other fees may be required by the Superior Court Clerk or County Auditor. When this is done, it places a lien against all real estate in the name of the judgment debtor that is located in the county. When the judgment has been paid in full you must send written notice to the District Court that the judgment has been satisfied.

13. Can I appeal a decision?

No party may appeal a judgment where the amount claimed is less than $250. An appeal must be filed within 30 days of the entry of the judgment and all required fees must be paid at that time.

14. Can you appeal a case if you lose?

The party who files a claim or counterclaim cannot appeal unless the amount claimed exceeds $1,000. No party may appeal a judgment where the amount claimed is less than $250. If an appeal is taken to the Superior Court, the appealing party is required to follow the procedures set out in Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 12.36. For more information view the Appealing a Lost Small Claim Case page.

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District Court - Traffic Infraction

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1. Can I keep my traffic ticket “off my record”?

If you have received a traffic infraction, you may be eligible for a deferral if you request a mitigation hearing. (It is the court's general policy to deny deferrals where a contested hearing is requested. In those situations, the defendant does not believe they committed the infraction and a hearing is held to determine whether the prosecution can prove they committed the infraction.) By successfully completing a deferral, the Court will not report your ticket to the Department of Licensing (DOL). You may defer only 1 moving 1 one non-moving infraction each 7 years. The administrative fee for a Deferral is $150. You do not need to pay the original amount of your citation if a Deferral is granted.

To be eligible you must meet the following conditions:
You must have a valid license.
You have not received a deferral in the past 7 years, from any court in the State of Washington, moving or non-moving.
You do not possess a commercial driver's license.
Your infraction is not one of the following: Speeding 25 mph over the limit or more, Speeding in a School Zone or Speeding in a Construction Zone.

The only other way to keep a traffic citation off of your record is if it is dismissed in by a Judge at a hearing (either in-person or written).

2. How do I ask the court to defer my infraction?

When initially responding to an infraction you may send a written request for a deferral in to the court with your citation. Alternatively, if you already have a hearing date scheduled, in your written or e-mailed response explaining the circumstances of the infraction you wish mitigated, include a request for a deferral. If you are appearing in person for a mitigation hearing you may also request a deferral at that time. If you are licensed to drive in a state other than Washington, you will be required to provide a certified copy of your driving record from the state where you are licensed.

3. What does it cost to defer my infraction?

The cost to defer a citation is $150. If you are unable to pay in full at the time your deferral is granted you may enter into a payment plan with the court staff. You do not need to pay the amount listed on your citation. The Court uses this fee to check your eligibility for deferral and to monitor your compliance with deferral terms.

4. What if I fail to pay the administrative fee for my deferral?

The Court will end your deferral and will report to the Department of Licensing (DOL) that you committed your traffic violation. In addition, a $52 penalty will be assessed against you, a case FTA ordered and notification sent to DOL to begin processing your driver's license for suspension. There are no exceptions to this policy.

*If you are unable to pay in full at the time your Deferral is granted please contact the court staff for a payment plan at (360) 385-9135 or come in person to the District Court office.

5. What if I commit a new traffic infraction?

The Court will end your deferral and will report to DOL that you committed your traffic infraction. There are no exceptions to this policy.

6. What infractions do not qualify for deferral?

The Court does not allow deferral for these 4 infractions:
- Speeding 25 mph over the limit or more
- Passing a school bus.
- Speeding in a school zone.
- Speeding in a construction zone.
- Any infraction where a fatality occurred.

7. May I have a lawyer at a contested hearing?

You may have a lawyer appear and represent you at your hearing. The lawyer fees would be your responsibility. The court does not appoint lawyers at public expense in infraction cases.

8. Will a traffic infraction appear on my driving record?

When you are found to have committed a traffic infraction, either by paying the penalty, having a hearing to explain the circumstances, or after a contested hearing, State law requires the court to report the conviction to the Department of Licensing (DOL). The traffic infraction will then appear on your driving record, which DOL maintains for 3 years for insurance purposes. If the infraction is dismissed by the court, it will not be reported to DOL and it will not appear on your driving record.

9. What about a "no liability insurance" ticket?

If you receive an infraction for failure to display proof of liability insurance and you were insured at the time of the infraction, you may file proof of your insurance with the court along with a $25 administrative fee, and the infraction will then be dismissed and not go on your driving record. If you have had multiple past insurance infractions, please check with the clerks office to determine the amount of your administrative fee.  If you obtained insurance after you were issued the infraction, you may request a mitigation hearing to explain the circumstances and show your insurance proof to the judge. The judge generally reduces the penalty substantially. However, you must respond as described above within the 15 days required by your notice of infraction.

10. What if I cannot afford to pay the penalty in full?

If you cannot afford to pay your penalty in full please contact the clerks office within 15 days of receiving your citation for a payment plan. You may also request a hearing to go in front of the court. Hearing options are listed on your citation.

11. What happens if I don't respond? I don't appear in court? I don't pay?

Failure to pay or respond to an infraction within 15 days will result in a finding that the infraction was committed and an order that the penalty listed on the infraction is due immediately. If you asked for a court hearing and do not appear at the scheduled hearing, the court will find that the infraction was committed and order the penalty listed on the infraction due immediately. A $52 late penalty is added when no response is made, payment is not made in a timely manner, or a hearing is missed. For traffic infractions, the Department of Licensing is notified of your failure to respond, pay or appear, resulting in suspension of your driver’s license. Delinquent payments may also be assigned to a collection agency with collection costs added.

12. I forgot about my ticket. What do I do now?

Paying the amount due in full, including late penalties and collection costs, will clear the matter with the court. Contact the court to see if your infraction has entered the collections process and what can be done to remedy the situation.

13. Is there a right to appeal?

You may appeal if the court finds you committed the infraction after a contested hearing. A written notice of appeal must be filed with the court within 30 days of the court’s decision against you. You will be responsible for the costs of an appeal, which include a $200 Superior Court filing fee, payable in advance. If you appeal, the Superior Court will review the record that was made at the District Court. The Superior Court will not provide a new trial. Instructions and forms to appeal a case are available from the District Court office.

14. How do I know what court to go to for my traffic ticket?

The court’s name, address and telephone number should be printed on your copy. If you have lost your copy contact the District Court. Most courts now have computer access to an index of cases filed in most limited jurisdiction courts in the state. Even if you go to the wrong court office, court staff should be able, in most cases, to direct you to the correct court.

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Employment

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1. How Do I Apply for a Position at Jefferson County?

Click here for current openings.

Send completed employment application form to the Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners by 4:30 pm of the  listed announcement closing date. Applicants are always highly  encouraged to submit a resume with their application.

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Environmental Health

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1. What is recyclable in Jefferson County?

Please click on this page for a comprehensive list of what is recyclable.

Know Before You Throw

2. What should I do if I see an algae bloom in a pond or lake?

If you see a green paint-like bloom in a Jefferson County lake please call us at 360-385-9444. Some lakes in Jefferson County have had blooms of bluegreen algae, which can produce toxins. For more information, see our lakes page.

Lake Water Quality

3. Are there any open positions on the Environmental Health Team?

Check here for current job openings.

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Face Coverings FAQs

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1. Is there a difference between "cloth" and "fabric" face coverings?

No, we use the terms interchangeably.

2. What is a cloth face covering?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) define cloth face coverings as fabric coverings including cloth face masks, scarves and bandana coverings, or any homemade face covering made of cotton fabric.

The CDC also makes clear that cloth face coverings should:

• Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
  • Be secured with ties or ear loops
  • Include multiple layers of fabric
  • Allow for breathing without restriction
  • Be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape

You can find more information on the CDC’s website.

3. What is the science behind face coverings?

Consistent use of a face mask or respirator in indoor public settings was associated with lower odds of a positive SARS-CoV-2 test result, according to a study published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on February 4, 2022. Use of respirators with higher filtration capacity was associated with the most protection, compared with no mask use. Click here to read more. 

4. Can a business owner require masks upon entry?

Yes, private business owners have the authority to create and maintain policies that protect the health of employees and customers.

5. When is a face covering not needed?

Face coverings are no longer required, however they are recommended when COVID-19 case rates are high. Check the current recommendation status by vising our case information page here. 

6. Can I wear a face shield instead of a mask?

Transparent face shields aren’t a direct substitute for face coverings because they don’t protect others. Droplets released when someone coughs, sneezes, or speaks can be dispersed through the sides and bottom of the shield. Shields are useful for protecting the wearer from other people’s sneezes and coughs.

7. If I have a medical exemption from wearing a mask I can work at my job without one, right?

Absolutely not.  A “medical exemption” is a statement from a licensed health care provider that says a person is unable to wear a mask due to medical or mental health problems.  It does not give a person permission to transmit a dangerous infectious disease to other people.  Common conditions like asthma, allergies, or chronic lung disease are not valid reasons for a “medical exemption”.  They are actually strong reasons to wear masks as many of these chronic conditions are associated with increased risk of COVID-19 complications.  People who have valid physical or psychological reasons that prevent them from wearing masks (facial deformities, panic disorders, developmental disabilities) are unable to go into places where masks are required.  They should seek assistance from friends and family to help purchase essential foods and medication.  Businesses are required to offer alternate ways of providing products and services such as curbside pick-up or home delivery. 

Not being able to wear a mask in an occupational setting is a serious disability and prevents a person from being involved in any face-to-face encounters with customers or coworkers.  Only jobs that can be performed alone in a room or outdoors greater than 6 feet away from others can be safely performed without a mask.  A face shield is not a substitute for a face mask.  The protective effect of a mask comes from its ability to trap respiratory droplets and aerosols (“source control”).  Face shields offer good protection for the eyes but have no significant “source control” effect.  We now believe that 40% or more of people who have COVID-19 have no symptoms but can still be highly infectious.  This is why everyone must wear a mask while indoors or closer than 6 feet outdoors.

8. Is anyone exempt from wearing a face covering?

Yes. Face coverings should not be worn by children who are two years of age or younger, or children under the age of twelve unless supervised by an adult. Additionally, if wearing a face covering would be difficult or harmful, an individual should not do so. Examples would be someone who has a physical disability that makes it difficult to easily wear or remove a face covering; someone who is deaf and uses facial and mouth movements as part of communications; someone who has been advised by a medical professional to not wear one; or someone who has trouble breathing or cannot remove a face covering without assistance.

9. Can I use an N95 respirator or surgical mask instead?

Members of the general public should not purchase medical grade or surgical masks at this time, as there is a serious shortage of face masks for health care workers. Medical masks should be reserved for health care providers who are on the front lines working to protect us all. Please avoid shopping for surgical, N95 respirator, or other medical masks.

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Family Health

Show All Answers

1. Do I have to get a pap smear before starting birth control?

No. We start women on birth control right away. We also evaluate the need for recommended testing and exams and will discuss this with you.

2. Can I make an appointment just to talk about different birth control options?

Yes! Birth control and women’s health is our specialty and we are happy to provide complete information about all types of birth control. You can choose to just discuss information, or you can start a method right away.

3. Do you only see women at your clinic?

We welcome people of all genders at all of our clinics.

4. What is WIC?

• WIC is a supplemental food assistance program sponsored by Jefferson County Public Health for eligible pregnant women and young children. WIC often involves office visits with a registered dietitian, a health educator or a nurse.
• Through WIC you can get food vouchers to boost your monthly food budget for your growing family and discuss nutrition as well as other health related topics for pregnancy, parenthood and child development.
• Learn more here.

5. How Do I Sign up for WIC?

Find out if you are eligible and how to apply, and make an appointment 

6. Do I qualify for WIC?

• Good news- WIC has openings  for eligible pregnant or breastfeeding women and children under 5 years old. 
• Get nutritious foods, information about feeding children, breastfeeding education and support and referrals to important services. 
• Check to see if you meet income guidelines   
• Learn more about WIC.
• Contact our office to schedule an appointment! Call 360-385-9400.

7. What is Nurse Family Partnership (NFP)

Nurse-Family Partnership is free for women who are pregnant and have not parented before. When you enroll you will be connected to a registered nurse who will provide the support, advice, and information you need to have a healthy pregnancy, a healthy baby and be a great mom. Learn more here.

8. Where can I find support for pregnant and new moms?

Our public health staff has expertise in family and health issues. We are committed to supporting you in being the best parent that you can be so that all our Jefferson children get off to a good start, thriving in a safe, healthy, and nurturing environment.  We offer support and education to pregnant women and parents of young children who are income-eligible. 

Learn more here.

9. What do I bring to my WIC appointment?

• Yourself, your child/children, your insurance cards for all eligible family members (provider one cards) paystubs,  and state issued I.D.
•  Any questions or concerns you have regarding obtaining food for yourself, your family or regarding the WIC process.
•  Learn more here.

10. What kinds of foods are on WIC?

Food items include fresh fruit/veggies, whole grain items such as bread or brown rice, beans/lentils, peanut butter, cheese, milk, eggs and juice. Eligible items change from pregnancy to after baby is born and as baby grows.  See an overview of WIC foods.    Learn more about the Jefferson County Public Health sponsored WIC program here.

11. Do I need proof of citizenship to receive services?

• It depends on the service you are trying to get.
• You do not need proof of citizenship to receive services through WIC or NFP currently.

12. Can I get help with food for my children under 5 years old?

WIC (Women Infants & Children) is a supplemental food program for income eligible pregnant, breastfeeding and postpartum women, and children under age 5. WIC offers food vouchers, nutrition education, and health checkup screenings. Click here to learn more.

13. Can I get a home visiting nurse and how do I do that?

• Possibly. The Nurse Family Partnership program offers free home visiting for women becoming parents for their first time.
• If you are in your first trimester and have not parented children previously, you likely qualify for Nurse Family Partnership (NFP) home visiting with a nurse.
• To learn more and see if you qualify, please call the Health Department at 360-385-9400

14. Can I get help with breastfeeding?

YES! The Public Health Department offers a number of options to help breastfeeding families get support and find their success:

• The Breastfeeding tea held virtually (call for more information at 360-385-9400)
• Breastfeeding support and education 
• WIC for eligible women/families
• Maternity Support Services (MSS) for eligible women/families.
• If you are not sure if you qualify for either WIC or MSS please call our office to ask. 360-385-9400

15. I need help getting formula, how do I do that?

• If you are having trouble providing enough food for your family,including formula for infants, Women Infants Children (WIC) may be able to help.  WIC is a supplemental food program sponsored by Jefferson County Public Health for income eligible pregnant, breastfeeding and postpartum women, and children under age 5 that offers nutrition education, health checkup screenings, breastfeeding support and food vouchers, including formula in some situations.

16. What is Maternity Support Services (MSS)?

• MSS is a service provided to eligible women (pregnant at any stage of pregnancy or 60 days after).
• These services include office visits with a nurse to help navigate your pregnancy, and your journey becoming a parent of a new baby.

17. How can I get more fresh fruit and veggies on a limited budget?

Check out the links below to learn how you can access additional fresh fruit and veggies on a limited budget or alongside your WIC vouchers.

• WIC/Farmers Market
• Safeway Complete Eats 
• Jefferson County Farmer's Markets

18. What stores accept WIC?

• Look for the “We accept WIC” signs in store windows, ask a store clerk.
• Many stores accept WIC, locally these include the Port Townsend Co-op, Safeway, QFC (in both Port Townsend and Port Hadlock)

19. What about dads, grandparents or legal guardians and the WIC Program?

• Dads, grandparents or other legal guardians who have custody of children 0-5years old can participate in WIC.  
• Dads can be involved in NFP appointments along with mom and baby as long as mom agrees (mom and baby are the main clients and focus here but the whole family can benefit).
• Call us at 360-385-9400 to schedule
• Learn more about WIC

20. How can I get a breast pump?

• If you currently have health insurance your insurance provider may be able to provide you with a pump. Contact your insurance provider to learn more.

21. Can I get help signing up for health insurance

• Go here to begin your application process. Once you have started an application, if you are having difficulty completing it or have more detailed questions about the application you have started, call 360-385-2200 and press extension 2265.
• If you have applied for Apple Health Insurance and are needing assistance with reproductive health, Take Charge is a program that may be able to assist you. Call our office at 360-385-9400 to learn more.

22. I or my children are having dental problems, can we get help?

• Washington state health insurance (Apple Health) have dental benefits.
• The Jefferson County Public Health Office can provide you with a list of dental service providers in the area that either work with Medicaid or low income families. 
• The SmileMobile comes through Jefferson County about every 6 months. It also visits towns in the peninsula area that may be a reasonable distance for you to travel.  

23. I’ve got a child with special health care needs, how can I get support or services?

• Public Health Nurses provide free resources, referrals for care, service coordination and support for families of children with chronic health conditions or developmental delays, ages birth to 17.
• Contact our office at 360-385-9400 for more info or to make an appointment.

24. What is Mandatory Reporting?

• Generally, what is said in a private appointment is not shared outside of that appointment, it is confidential, unless you give us permission to share it.
• However as mandatory reporters we must contact someone to help, if you tell us:
  •  You are being abused (physically and/or sexually)
  •  You are being neglected
  • You are going to hurt yourself or someone else
  • You are under 14 and having sex with someone 17 years old or older
  • You are under 16 and having sex with someone 20 years old or older

25. What can I do if a friend is possibly suicidal?

We can all help prevent suicide. The National Suicide Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.  Call 1-800-273-8255 or visit the National Suicide Lifeline website.

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Fleet

Show All Answers

1. As a manufacturer or dealer of fleet vehicles, equipment or parts, how do I start doing business with Fleet Services?

The Fleet Services Division is always seeking competitive options in existing purchase categories and innovative products that may enhance the efficiency of our fleet or our shop operations. Please forward initial information about your company and product to us using the contact information on our page.

In actually procuring such vehicles, equipment, parts and services, Fleet Services relies on a mixture of the following:

- Washington Department of Enterprise Services contracts;
- National Joint Powers Alliance contracts;
- Its own contracts awarded subsequent to advertised requests for bids;
- And, generally for less expensive goods and services, Small Works and Vendor roster procedures.

Click the link below for more information about each of these contracting mechanisms.


Business Opportunities with Fleet Services

2. How do I purchase surplus vehicles and equipment?

The Fleet Services Division typically administers an auction at its main shop facility, located at 371 Chimacum Road in Port Hadlock, Washington, on roughly an annual basis. Items for sale at auction mainly consist of surplus fleet vehicles, equipment, parts and tools, along with some items from other County departments and local agencies. Each auction is advertised locally in the County newspaper of record and on this site.

In addition, Fleet Services may make use of the contract between Washington Department of Enterprise Services and its online-auction provider. At the time of this update, that provider is GovDeals.

Jefferson County surplus on GovDeals.com

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Food Safety

Show All Answers

1. How does food become contaminated?

View the Food Contamination page.

2. There is only so much the consumer can do. How can food be made safer in the first place?

View the Food Safety First page.

3. What is CDC doing to control and prevent foodborne disease?

View the CDC Foodborne Actions page.

4. How can employee health and hygiene practices prevent foodborne illness?

Employee Health and Personal Hygiene Handbook (PDF)

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Foodborne Illness

Show All Answers

1. What is foodborne Illness (infection, disease)?

View the Foodborne Illness Defined page.

2. What are the most common foodborne diseases?

View the Most Common Foodborne Diseases page.

3. How many cases of foodborne disease are there in the United States?

View the U.S. Foodborne Cases page.

4. Are the types of foodborne diseases changing?

View the Foodborne Types Changing page.

5. What are some critical unsolved problems in foodborne disease?

View the Unsolved Foodborne Problems page.

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Foodborne Outbreaks & Surveillance (Tracking)

Show All Answers

1. How do public health departments track foodborne diseases?

View the Tracking Foodborne Disease page.

2. What is a foodborne disease outbreak and why do they occur?

View the Foodborne Illness Outbreak page.

3. Why do public health officials investigate outbreaks?

View the Why Foodborne Outbreak Investigated page.

4. How are outbreaks of foodborne disease detected?

View the Foodborne Outbreaks Detected page.

5. How is a foodborne disease outbreak investigated?

View the How Foodborne Outbreak Investigated page.

6. What foods are most associated with foodborne illness?

View the Foods Associated With Foodborne Illness page.

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Juvenile - CASA & GAL Program

Show All Answers

1. How much time does it take to do the GAL job?

The time commitment to a case varies depending upon the stage of the case. Volunteers sometimes say that there is a greater amount of work in the beginning of the case, when they are conducting their initial research. Volunteers vary in how much time they spend on a case, but you should expect to spend an average of at least 10 to 15 hours a month on a case; volunteers find that some months require far more than 15 hours, while others require far less.

2. Exactly what does a GAL volunteer do?

A GAL volunteer typically handles no more than 3 cases at a time - and commits to stay on each case until the child is placed in a safe, permanent home.

The GAL's role is to represent the best interests of the child. This may not always be the same as what the child wants. Volunteer GALs must be able to talk to everyone involved in a case and remain objective in their recommendations. While there will be ongoing contact with a child, the GAL's role is not to become a mentor, but to be an advocate for what they believe is in the child's best interest for finding a permanent home.

3. What kind of support will I receive?

You will be supported every step of the way. No matter how many years they've been volunteers, the GALs know they can always access the Program Coordinator for consultation, support and information. You will also be provided with clear and practical training, including the National CASA initial core training and our monthly local opportunities for free continuing education. You will have access to online resources provided by National and Washington State CASA, including a resource library, national Facebook community and national and state conferences.

4. I'd like to apply but I'm not sure this will be a good fit, how will I know?

- You want to focus on a volunteer job that is challenging and significant.
- You are ready to take action and make a difference in the life of a child.
- You are ready to be part of an organization that values hard work and integrity.
- You are willing to learn new skills and information.
- You are a self-starter who is also a good team player.
- You are generous with your heart, your time and your energy.
- You are willing to be patient with the slow process of the court, because a child's life is important to you.

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Licensing

Show All Answers

1. What forms of payment are accepted for vehicle/vessel licensing?

We accept cash, a check from the registered owner or debit/credit cards for an additional convenience fee and are accepted until 4:00pm.

2. Do you accept debit/credit cards for payment in the Auditor's Office?

Debit/Credit cards are only accepted at the vehicle/vessel licensing counter until 4:00pm. A convenience fee applies.

3. Can I send someone else in to renew my tabs?

Registered owners may authorize a representative to purchase vehicle or vessel registration by (1) power of attorney or (2) with written permission such as a note containing the following:  the name and signature of the registered owner and the vehicle/vessel plate or registration number. Payment must be made with cash, debit/credit, or a check from the registered owner.

4. Is this where I get my Drivers License?

No.  Drivers Licensing is located at 2300 S. Park Ave. Port Townsend. Their phone number is(360) 385-0378.  You can get more information at www.dol.wa.gov 

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Marriage License Information

Show All Answers

1. Who can officiate our marriage?

RCW  26.04.050

The following named officers and persons, active or retired, are hereby authorized to solemnize marriages, to wit: Justices of the supreme court, judges of the court of appeals, judges of the superior courts, supreme court commissioners, court of appeals commissioners, superior court commissioners, judges of courts of limited jurisdiction as defined in RCW  3.02.010, judges of tribal courts from a federally recognized tribe, and any regularly licensed or ordained minister or any priest, imam, rabbi, or similar official of any religious organization. The solemnization of a marriage by a tribal court judge pursuant to authority under this section does not create tribal court jurisdiction and does not affect state court authority as otherwise provided by law to enter a judgment for purposes of any dissolution, legal separation, or other proceedings related to the marriage that is binding on the parties and entitled to full faith and credit. 

2. How do I obtain a copy of my marriage certificate?

The fee for a certified copy of your marriage certificate is $3.00 per copy.  You can obtain the copy in person or by mail. The other option, is MOST marriage certificates are available to purchase online through the Washington State Digital Archives.  Please visit www.digitalarchives.wa.gov

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Noxious Weed Control Program

Show All Answers

1. There are weeds on property next to mine which keeps infesting my property, what can I do?

Each landowner is responsible for the noxious weed species outlined in the County weed list of 2016. The weeds on that list are classified as either Class A, B, or C which is indicated either behind the common names or in the list titles. Class A weeds are the highest priority and are required for eradication meaning you have to remove all plant matter immediately. Class B weeds are required for control meaning you have to prevent it from reproducing (which is most effectively done through eradication). Class C weeds are not recommended for control but not required. 

If you are concerned about weeds on another property, please feel free to contact us and let us know. We can contact landowners and help them with management strategies and inform them of the legal issues. 

For more information, check out the

Noxious Weed Laws info.

2. I keep removing weeds but they keep coming back up each year, what can I do?

Noxious weed control is a 2-step process. Step 1 is to remove the noxious weeds, step 2 is to put something desirable back. If you remove weeds and leave the soil bare, the noxious weed’s seed bed that is already in the soil will be able to germinate. Additionally, bare soil is a great place for new seeds to settle and germinate as well. By reseeding an area with a desirable species, or by planting plugs or even bigger plants, you introduce competition for the noxious weed seeds to cope with. There is rarely ever a quick fix in ecology but by introducing competition into the system, it will be much harder for the noxious weeds to regain full control.

3. I have removed noxious weeds, what do I do with the plant material?

The safest way to get rid of plant material is to bag it and bring it to the solid waste facility as trash, not compost. There are conflicting reports on the effects of composting noxious weeds. Some argue the compost gets to a high enough temperature for it to kill any propagules (seeds / root fragments / etc), whilst others report instances of noxious weeds growing out of a compost pile. Therefore, to err on the side of caution, the Weed Board advices people to out their weeds into the trash.

4. I have a plant in my garden and I do not know the species. How do I identify it?

There are several ways we can help with identification. If you suspect it is a noxious weed bringing us a sample would allow us to try and identify it for you. Alternatively, the Master Gardeners program meets each Monday and will identify any samples brought to them. Lastly, you could e-mail clear photographs to the Weed Board which we will try and identify.

5. I have a noxious weed in my garden and I know the species, how do I control it?

The Jefferson County Noxious Weed Control Board’s website offers links to the ‘’Noxious Weeds Fact Sheets’’ and ‘’Best Management Practices’’ of the most common noxious weeds. Additionally, the Weed Board has Weed wrenches available to be borrowed for free at any time. These are great tools for removing larger weeds such as Scotch broom, Himalayan blackberry, and tall Poison hemlock plants, root and all. If you would like any further information feel free to contact the Weed Board at any time.

6. What does the Jefferson County Noxious Weed Control Board do?

The Weed Board has 3 main duties:

- To provide outreach information in order to better educate the public about the severe economic and ecological impacts of noxious weeds.
- Survey for noxious weed infestations and relay that information to landowners / land managers.
- To enforce the WAC 16-750 and RCW 17.10 weed laws regarding Class A and B noxious weed management.

The Jefferson County Noxious Weed Control Board has a staff of 2 people whose focus does not lie on controlling weeds. There are many other organizations, businesses, volunteers, and groups that focus on weed control. A county Weed Board is an organization that provides oversight and assistance in every aspect of noxious weed management.

7. What are Noxious Weeds?

Washington’s noxious weeds are non-native plants that are invasive, competitive and very hard to control once established. They lower property values, decrease agricultural production, degrade wildlife habitat, threaten our native plants, reduce enjoyment of recreational areas and create public health hazards.
Noxious weeds are everybody’s problem—they impact homeowners, farmers, environmentalists, tourists, public land managers and elected officials. Noxious weeds easily cross ownership boundaries so it is important that we all work together to control them.

8. Who Decides What is a Noxious Weed?

Every year the Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board puts out a State Weed List. Weeds are divided into three classes. Class A Weeds are ones which are not yet widespread in Washington but could have serious impacts if they became established. State law requires eradication of all Class A weeds. Class B Weeds are prevalent in some parts of the state and less so in others; control is required in designated areas. Class C Weeds are ones which are already widespread; control is encouraged but not required. However, counties can select Class B or C Weeds and require control within their own county.

9. Who Should Control Noxious Weeds?

State Weed Law says that control of noxious weeds is the landowner’s responsibility. However, staff of the Jefferson County Noxious Weed Control Program are available to assist landowners with noxious weed identification and control options. We also have tools that can help with weed removal. Feel free to call our office 360-379-5610 ext .205 with your questions about noxious weeds.

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PAO Modification

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1. I think my child Support amount should be raised (or lowered). What should I do?

In general, if your current order of child support was entered more than 24 months ago and your incomes have changed, your case may be ready for a review. Individuals who have signed an application requesting non-assistance support enforcement services from the DCS can request that the agency review an order of child support for possible modification or adjustment. Apply for DCS non-assistance support enforcement services

Once a DCS case has been opened, a Request to Review an Order of Child Support form 9-741 can be made. Completed forms should be sent to:

Division of Child Support

PO Box 11520

Tacoma, WA 98411-5520

At the time you mail in the form, you must also provide the following information:

1. Recent Wage Stubs

2. A completed Financial Declaration

3. Your last two years of tax returns

4. Financial Declaration (available at Washington Courts website)

The Prosecuting Attorney’s Office cannot process a modification or adjustment unless the case is referred to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office by DCS. You cannot request a modification or adjustment directly from the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.

2. If my Child Support Order meets the criteria for review, what happens next?

After a referral by DCS, the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office will decide whether your case meets our criteria for filing a petition or motion with the court. The Prosecuting Attorney’s Office reviews the information supplied by the parties prior to filing. The case can be tracked one of two ways:

1. The case may be filed as a Petition for Modification. This is the more expansive option for reviewing the order. With a Petition for Modification, the court can review all facets of the child support order unless specifically prohibited by language in the underlying order. The court can address the issue of tax exemptions, college costs, and changes to health insurance. Modifications are the preferred choice if one or both parties is self-employed to allow additional time for the exchange of discovery. If your current Order of Child Support is from outside Jefferson County and/or outside the state of Washington, your case must be filed as a modification. Modifications take place approximately 3 months after the case has been filed.

2. The case may be filed as a Motion for Adjustment of Child Support. Order These cases are handled in a more streamlined manner. The Court can review updated incomes for the parties and draft new orders with a new support amount. In a Motion for Adjustment of Child Support Order, the court cannot address tax exemptions, college costs, or healthcare insurance. These issues will default to the current language in your original order. The court can only adjust the child support payment. Adjustments take place approximately three months after filing.

It is imperative that our office has an updated address and phone numbers for both parties. As the case moves forward, you will receive numerous letters updating the status of your case and requesting additional information from you.

All income and resources of each parent’s household must be disclosed. The opposing party will receive copies of everything you submit. It is your responsibility to black out all of your social security numbers, bank account statement numbers, and other identifying numbers.

Please understand that even if our office declines to file your case at this time, you may always proceed on your own or resubmit it for review at a later time.

3. I was served with a Petition to Modify Child Support, what should I do?

Generally, you should file a Response to Petition to Modify Child Support Order (FL Modify 502) and a Financial Declaration (FL All Family 011). These forms are available at the Washington Courts’ website. You must file a copy with the Jefferson County Superior Court and serve a copy on all parties, including the Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. Usually the Response must be filed and served within 20 days of you being served or accepting service.

It is recommended that you contact an attorney for legal assistance. Please see Resources below for other agencies which provide additional information, referral services, or pro bono legal services.

If you are unable to find an attorney for your case, online resources may be available to assist you in filling out the forms. Please see Washington Law Help for their Petition to Modify Child Support Order online packet.

4. I received a Motion to Adjust Child Support Order, what should I do?

If you oppose the motion, generally you should file a response to the motion. The response should indicate why you disagree with or object to the motion. You must file a copy with the Jefferson County Superior Court and serve a copy on all parties, including the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.

You may also consider filing a financial declaration and supporting documents, such as paystubs or information to support your requests. The forms for responding to a Motion to Adjust Child Support Order can be found on the Washington Courts’ website.

If you are unable to find an attorney for your case, online resources may be available to assist you in filling out the forms. Please see Washington Law Help for their packet on responding to a Motion to Adjust Child Support Order.

5. How does the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office calculate the child support payment?

The Prosecuting Attorney’s Office follows Chapter 26.19 RCW when proposing child support transfer payments. The Prosecuting Attorney’s Office uses a standard calculation based upon statutory requirements for income, deviation, and child support tables. RCW 26.19.075 is the statute used to determine sources of income. RCW 26.19.020 is the statute used for deviations from the standard calculation.

6. What should I do if I need a deviation from the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office proposed child support transfer payment?

If you want to request a deviation above or below the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office proposed child support transfer payment, you should follow the statutory requirements (RCW 26.19.020) and state your reasons in a sworn declaration (FL All Family 135), along with supporting documentation. The declaration is available at the Washington Courts’ website. You must file a copy with the Jefferson County Superior Court and serve a copy on all parties, including the Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. You may also request a deviation during your hearing.

7. I now have a court date, what should I do?

Many people ask if they have to come to court. The answer is that you are not under subpoena to appear in court and the Court will not issue a warrant if you do not attend. However, it is in your best interest to participate fully in this process and to come to court on the day of your hearing. Please plan on arriving 15 minutes before court is scheduled to begin. Please plan on setting aside half the day for the hearing.

The Jefferson County Superior Court hears modifications and adjustments on Fridays at 2:00pm. The Prosecuting Attorney’s Office will schedule the hearing and send notice to all parties through USPS mail. If you cannot attend the hearing, please contact the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and they will attempt to reschedule the hearing. Please contact them as soon as you learn you cannot attend the hearing. You can also request a continuance by filing paperwork with the Superior Court.

If you are planning to come to court, please let us know if you need any accommodations in terms of language interpreters or disability accommodations.

You will have a chance to address (talk to) the Judge or Commissioner during the hearing. Often, the parties are limited to five minutes. While some people choose to hire an attorney to represent them, many do not. You may find it helpful to write down the points that you want to convey to the Court.

If you plan on testifying at the hearing for a petition to modify child support order, you must file a Motion to Allow Testimony (About Modifying Child Support) (FL Modify 503) within 10 days of the hearing. The motion must be filed with the Jefferson County Superior Court’s Clerks Office and served on all parties, including the Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. These forms are available at the Washington Courts’ website.

The court will make a final decision at the end of the hearing. You will know the result before you leave court.

8. Is there childcare available at Court?

Unfortunately, no childcare is available at the Courthouse.

9. I am unemployed and no longer able to pay my child support. What should I do?

It is very stressful to be in between jobs and our office recognizes that the whole family suffers when one parent is unemployed. Simply being unemployed, however, is not grounds for modifying your child support. If you are long-term unemployed due to an actual disability, the statute will allow us to modify your order if you have documented, medical proof of the disability and any benefits you receive.

10. I went back to school full-time and now don't have any income. Will you lower my support?

While it may be to everyone’s long-term benefit for a parent to achieve a higher degree, the statute is very clear that parents are not excused from paying child support because they have returned to school. You will be expected to pay child support based on your last known wages.

11. What if I need my parenting plan established or modified?

The Prosecuting Attorney’s Office does not file parenting plan modification or establishment petitions. The Jefferson County Superior Court’s Clerk Office provides a family facilitator which can explain the family law process, identify forms, help schedule hearings, review paperwork for completeness, compute child support per provided income, and help with referrals to other agencies. They cannot provide legal advice or help fill out forms. This service is offered Wednesdays from 8:30am until 3:30pm on a walk-in basis. More information may be found at the Jefferson County Superior Court website or by contacting the Facilitator at (360) 385-9124.

12. I have a new baby with a new partner, does that matter?

Maybe. The statute may allow a paying parent to argue for a deviation (reduction) in child support if they are supporting another biological child. It is within the court’s discretion to grant this deviation for another child or not. The court considers other factors such as the ages of all the children, the total circumstances of both households, and the financial situation of the adults involved. If you want the Court to consider a deviation you must provide birth certificates for the children at issue as well as the financial information of the new spouse. If you believe a deviation is appropriate in your case, it is your responsibility to request a deviation in writing prior to your hearing. Please see the question above titled “What should I do if I need a deviation from the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office proposed child support transfer payment?”

13. Can I be required to pay for a child's daycare and special child rearing expenses?

Yes, the court may order parents to pay their proportional shares of daycare and other special child rearing expenses. These expenses may include but are not limited to:

• sports
• tuition
• long-distance transportation expenses
• tutoring, and
• summer camp.

The court will consider each parent’s ability to pay for these expenses. The inclusion of these expenses depends upon the language in your underlying order, whether these costs are agreed upon by the parties, and the specific situation in each family.

If you would like to ask the court to address these expenses, you must make this request in writing and provide documentation of the expenses before the trial. Only under a petition to modify can these be changed. If your case is a motion to adjust, these cannot be changed.

14. My kids are now teenagers and they are involved in a lot of activities. Can you help?

The statute actually acknowledges that teenagers are more expensive than elementary school aged kids. If your child is over the age of 12, his or her portion of support is calculated at a higher amount in the child support software. This frequently is a strong consideration for modifying or adjusting your order. An updated pro rata share of expenses may also assist in paying for some after school activities, but this category of expenses is dependent upon the language in the original orders or by agreement of the parties in each individual case, unless it is a petition to modify, which may allow the court to modify the pro rata share of expenses. The court may also take into consideration driver’s education costs, SAT fees, and other affiliated senior year expenses

15. What do we do about college?

If you are seeking “Post-Secondary Support” or financial contribution toward college costs, you must file a modification before your child turns 18 or finishes high school. Please review the specific language in your existing order to determine your deadline. The Court will want to know the following information:

1. Your child’s grades

2. Where your child has applied/been accepted and the tuition cost

3. Whether or not the two parents both attended college themselves

4. Whether there was an expectation that the child attended college

The Prosecuting Attorney’s Office will not file this on your behalf. You must do this on your own. You can find all the forms you need on the Washington Courts’ website.  The best time to file this motion is usually first semester of the child’s senior year in high school.

16. Can someone in your office help me fill out my paperwork?

We expect people to do their best in filling out the required paperwork. We will not accept blank forms with your signature at the bottom. We are not allowed to give you legal advice, but we can answer questions if something is not clear to you. If you would like to set up a ten-minute appointment with the Support Enforcement Coordinator to assist you with the final touches on your paperwork, please (360) 385-9359.

17. What happens when there is a history of domestic violence in my case.

Your safety is our primary concern. When filling out your paperwork, black out any address or identifying information you do not want shared with other parties.

Dove House Advocacy Services provides free, confidential crisis intervention and advocacy services to crime victims in Jefferson County, WA including survivors of domestic and sexual violence, fraud, and elder abuse. Dove House’s 24 Hour Crisis Line is 360-385-5291.

If you feel that your situation requires extra security in the courtroom, please let us know and the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office will make arrangements.

18. What if the paying parent isn't paying?

If you have not received payments for more than three consecutive months, your case may be reviewed for a contempt action. Please contact your DCS case worker, as the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office cannot begin a contempt action unless the case is referred to it by DCS. Once the case is referred the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office will evaluate the case to determine if it can accept the case.

19. How do I obtain copies of my court orders?

Copies of any order entered in Jefferson County may be obtained by contacting the Superior Court Clerk’s Office. We will always mail you a copy of your modified order within 7 business days of your court date.

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PAO Contempt

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1. Where is the closest DCS office?

All offices are open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Seattle Child Support Office
500 First Avenue South
Seattle, WA 98104
206-341-7000
800-526-8658

Tacoma Child Support Office
1949 South State Street, 3rd Floor
Tacoma, WA 98401
253-597-3700
800-345-9976

Everett Child Support Office
840 North Broadway
Everett, WA 98201
425-438-4800
800-729-7580

Olympia Child Support Office

243 Israel Road, TC3 5th Floor

Tumwater WA 98501
360-664-6900
800-345-9964

2. When will I receive a check?

Depending on the method of payment, receipt of payment may be delayed for two to four weeks.

3. I have a warrant. Now what? How do I quash my warrant?

If you ARE represented by counsel, you should contact your attorney for assistance and warrant quash procedures.

You may also turn yourself into the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, pay your bail amount plus a $60.00 fee. You will go through the normal booking process, released and be given a court date for the following week and you must show up for that court date.

4. Must I attend my monthly contempt review hearings?

Yes, you must attend your monthly contempt review hearings. If you fail to appear or fail to pay, the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office may request that the court issue a bench warrant. If you have complied with all the terms of your previous review hearing, such as making an on-time payment or work search requirements, you may contact the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office to determine if they will agree to excusing your absence at the monthly review hearing. If you cannot attend your hearing and are not excused, please contact the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office prior to 12:00pm on your court date to explain the reasons for your absence. The Prosecuting Attorney’s Office will make efforts to relay this information to the court; however, the court may still issue a bench warrant in limited cases.

5. What is a Contempt Payment Agreement with the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office?

The Prosecuting Attorney’s Office may offer an obligor a contempt payment agreement, also known as a “soft contempt”. The contempt payment agreement requires the obligor to make a series of payments by certain dates. If the payments are made in full and on-time, the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office may return your contempt file to DCS and request that the court close your contempt file. You are still responsible for all current amount due, plus any past due amount. You will be required to coordinate with your DCS caseworker future payments. Generally, the contempt payment agreement gives the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office flexibility to enter into a unique agreement based upon your child support order, ability to pay, and other circumstances.

6. My License is suspended, how can I get it back?

The DCS may suspend your license if you are behind in your child support payments. The Prosecuting Attorney’s Office does not suspend any licenses and the decision to suspend rests solely with DCS. DCS can suspend any license issued by the State of Washington, including but not limited to:

• drivers’ licenses
• hunting licenses
• fishing licenses
• professional licenses
• contractor, or
• occupational licenses.

 If you owe child support you must sign a Repayment Agreement with DCS (or pay off the entire debt) to get your license back. Call DCS to ask about signing a repayment agreement and other options. In setting a repayment amount, DCS will look at your income and expenses, including the expenses of caring for any dependent children. You must provide DCS with complete information about your financial situation, including any extra expense you may have, including, but not limited to medical costs, costs for caring for a child who is disabled, etc. DCS may make you pay the first installment due under your repayment agreement before releasing your license. You must keep making your payments when due. If you do not make timely payments, DCS can suspend your license again.

7. As the parent receiving child support, am I required to appear for hearings?

The custodial parent is not required to appear at contempt hearings, although you are welcome to appear if you wish. Any information you would like the court to consider at the hearing, must be submitted to the court and the DCS Family Support Division in writing prior to the hearing in accordance with local court rules.

8. What is a Conference Board review?

A Conference Board review is an informal hearing to resolve grievances with DCS. It is an internal dispute resolution process for contesting DCS actions. Individuals are able to address some issues that they are not able to get a decision from anywhere else, such as a grievance about a DCS worker, request for deferral, review of payroll withholdings that cause hardship, and most commonly a request for a charge-off or waiver (decision not to collect child support obligation). Many Conference Board requests are for a write off of back support assigned to the State. Only debt owed to Washington state may be written off – No exceptions. However, there may be other options available, such as a settlement agreement between the custodial and non-custodial parents for amounts owed to the custodial parent.

Under some circumstances, Conference Boards may also set the monthly payment rate on back support. In setting a repayment amount, DCS will look at the individuals’ income and expenses, including the expense of caring for any dependent children. Obligors must provide DCS with complete information about their financial situation, including any extra expenses they may have.

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PAO Paternity

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1. I know who the biological father of my child is. How do I get child support?

A person cannot be obligated to pay child support until they are legally declared to be a parent and they are listed on the child’s birth certificate. A father’s name is put on the birth certificate if:

1. He and the mother are married at the time the child is born (he is called the presumed father);
2. He and the mother sign a paternity affidavit; or,
3. A court order establishes him as the father.

If a father is already listed on the child’s birth certificate, the Division of Child Support (DCS) can set support administratively. If no father is named on the child’s birth certificate, then DCS may refer the case to the Family Support Division to establish paternity and set support through the Jefferson County Superior Court

2. What is a "presumed father?"

A man is a "presumed father" of a child born during the marriage (or within 300 days of a divorce).  Even though husband and wife might have been separated for a while and/or they know the husband is not the biological father of the child, the husband is still considered the "presumed father" until a court order is entered that says the husband is not the father or until another man is legally established as the father of the child.

3. What is a paternity affidavit?

A paternity affidavit is a legal document, signed by the mother and the father (and the presumed father if the mother was married when the child was born) which legally establishes the father, adds his name to the birth certificate and gives him potential rights (visitation) and responsibilities (child support) of being a father.  While it is a quicker way to establish paternity than through the court process, it can be hard to undo if someone changes their mind.  The mother and potential father should carefully read the paternity affidavit and make sure they know the consequences of signing a paternity affidavit.

If both the mother and father agree (and the child was born in Washington), they can sign a paternity affidavit and take it to the Division of Child Support, where it can be notarized and sent to the Department of Health in Olympia for filing.

4. Where do I get a blank Washington State paternity affidavit?

For more information about establishing paternity via a paternity affidavit, visit the Division of Child Support (DCS) website or call DCS at 800-457-6202. They can send you the paternity affidavit and an informational booklet free of charge.

5. The father of my child is deceased. Can I still get paternity established?

If the father has passed away, the Family Support Division cannot file a court action to establish paternity.  Any lawsuit against a deceased person must be filed against the deceased person’s personal representative as part of a probate action.  Our office does not handle probate actions.

 In some very limited circumstances, we may be able to help get genetic testing done so that the child can get social security death benefits, if otherwise eligible.  If the father of a child has recently passed away and you are interested in genetic testing, call our office: 360-385-9359

6. How do I find out if I am the father of a child?

The Family Support Division of the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office files court actions to establish paternity of children. You do not have to be on public assistance to qualify for this service. Our office will only file paternity cases which have been referred to us by the Division of Child Support. Contact DCS 1-800-457-6202 for information about starting a paternity action.

7. Will the Prosecuting Attorney's Office do a paternity test for me?

Our office will only do genetic testing when we have filed a court action to establish paternity.  We do not do genetic testing in cases our office has not filed in court. However, if you have a paternity action filed in another county, but reside in Jefferson County, we may conduct the genetic testing on behalf of the other county, at their request. If you reside in another county, but have a pending Jefferson County paternity action, we may request that another prosecuting attorney’s office or lab complete your genetic testing.

8. My name is on the child's birth certificate. How can I get a paternity test to make sure I am the father?

If your name is on the birth certificate because:

…someone told the hospital that you were married to the mother but you were not actually married to the mother.  Call the Division of Child Support at 1-800-457-6202 and tell them you want to do a "paternity establishment action."

...you were married to the mother.  You are legally presumed to be the father until you get divorced and your divorce addresses paternity of the child in question or you file a "disestablishment action" Our office does not handle either type of court action.  Since there are time limits on when you can seek to disestablish paternity, you should consult with an attorney.

. . . you signed a paternity affidavit. You must act within certain legal time limits if you want to undo a paternity affidavit. Our office does not handle rescissions or challenges to paternity affidavits. You should consult with an attorney as soon as possible or if you want to try and look into it on your own, the legal time limits are in the statute called the Uniform Parentage Act, Chapter 26.26 RCW.

 ...a Court order established you as the father of a child.  You have to bring a court action to "vacate" the court order.  If our office was involved in the court order establishing you as the father we can review the case to figure out what, if anything, our office can do.  Call our office at 360-385-9359 to discuss further.

9. I was served with a Petition to Decide Paternity, what should I do?

Generally, you should file a Response to Petition to Decide Parentage (FL Parentage 302). These forms are available at the Washington Courts’ website. You must file a copy with the Jefferson County Superior Court and serve a copy on all parties, including the Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. Usually the Response must be filed and served within 20 days of you being served or accepting service.

 It is recommended that you contact an attorney for legal assistance. If you are unable to find an attorney for your case, online resources may be available to assist you in filling out the forms. Please see Washington Law Help for their packet on responding to a Petition to Decide Paternity.

10. What happens after a response to the Petition to Decide Paternity?

Usually the parties agree to genetic testing. If the parties do not agree to genetic testing, the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office will likely file a motion to obtain a court order to obtain genetic testing of the birth mother, child, and potential father. This motion is usually based upon an interview of the birth mother. The court will review the record and decide whether to order genetic testing.

Once an order requiring genetic testing is issued by the court, the parties will be required to come into the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office or another location to give a genetic sample. The sample will be sent to a lab for testing. Once the results are in, the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office will notify the parties. The Prosecuting Attorney’s Office will then file the genetic testing. If the potential father is confirmed as the genetic parent, the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office will usually request financial documents from the potential father to obtain propose a child support payment.

11. The genetic testing has confirmed that I am the father; however, I want to request a deviation from the proposed child support payment. What should I do?

If you want to request a deviation above or below the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office proposed child support transfer payment, you should follow the statutory requirements (RCW 26.19.020) and state your reasons in a sworn declaration (FL All Family 135), along with supporting documentation. The declaration is available at the Washington Courts’ website. You must file a copy with the Jefferson County Superior Court and serve a copy on all parties, including the Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. You may also request a deviation during your hearing or trial.

12. Can I obtain a parenting plan as a part of the paternity action?

A parenting plan is not required to obtain a paternity judgment or child support. The paternity judgment will only state who is the custodial parent of the child (who the child resides with most of the time), unless the parties agree to a parenting plan. Usually the parenting plans are completed after the paternity judgment. However, the parties can obtain a parenting plan during the paternity process. The Prosecuting Attorney’s Office does not take a position or become involved in parenting plans. The parties may come to an agreement over the parenting plan and file it with the court and serve copies on the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. If the parties are unable to agree to a parenting plan, the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office may suggest a temporary parenting plan.

The Jefferson County Superior Court’s Clerk Office provides a family facilitator which may assist with parenting plan issues, such as explaining the family law process, identifying forms, scheduling hearings, and reviewing paperwork for completeness. They cannot provide legal advice or help fill out forms. This service is offered Wednesdays from 8:30am until 3:30pm on a walk-in basis. More information may be found at the Jefferson County Superior Court website or by contacting the Facilitator at (360) 385-9124

13. Will I get back child support as a part of the paternity action?

It depends. Under RCW 26.26B.040, the court has the discretion to order back child support from the time the child was born to the issuance of the final orders. This period is limited to 5 years. However, there are many factors that go into awarding back child support. If the State of Washington has paid certain public assistance to the birth mother, it may be entitled to a portion or all of the back support for periods when the public support was paid. In those circumstances, the State of Washington through the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office may request the back-child support, which will be due to the State if awarded. If there is no public assistance, the custodial parent may request back support as a part of the paternity action.

14. How long does a paternity case take?

It depends on many factors, mostly whether or not people cooperate and follow through with what they are supposed to do. Most often cases are completed within 9 months by agreement, motion for summary judgment, or default (because one or both parties did not response). If the case proceeds to trial, it may take longer than 9 months.

15. Does the Family Support Division or the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office represent me?

No. The Family Support Division and the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office do not represent either the mother or the father.  The deputy prosecuting attorney in your case represents the State of Washington.  You must retain an attorney if you want an attorney to represent you.

16. What if the father admits he is the father?

It is not legally binding for someone to admit verbally that he is the dad.  If there is more than one possible father, genetic testing must be done.  However, if there is only one possible father, he can admit he is the father but he must do it in writing, by completing a Response form, signing an Agreed Order Determining Parentage, or signing a Paternity Affidavit (see above). These forms can be found on the Washington Courts’ website.

17. What do I have to do for genetic testing?

The person taking the sample will ask you a few questions and rub a cotton swab (like a Q-Tip) inside your cheek.  It takes a few minutes and does not hurt.  Please bring picture identification.

18. Do I have to pay for genetic testing?

No, genetic testing is free to all parties.  The State pays for this service.

19. How long does it take to get genetic testing results?

It depends on whether or not the mother and the father cooperate with genetic testing.  If one or both do not cooperate, it can take months or longer.  Once the mother, child and the father have been swabbed, genetic test results take 4-6 weeks.  The results will be mailed to you.  We cannot give you the results over the phone.

20. How do I get the Amended Birth Certificate with the father's name on it?

Once an order is entered establishing paternity, we will send a certified copy of the order to Vital Statistics and they will add the father’s name. It takes 6-8 weeks or longer.  We will send you instructions on how to order a birth certificate when we send you a copy of the court’s order establishing paternity.

21. I now have a court date, what should I do?

Many people ask if they have to come to court. The answer is that you are not under subpoena to appear in court and the Court will not issue a warrant if you do not attend. However, it is in your best interest to participate fully in this process and to come to court on the day of your hearing. Please plan on arriving 15 minutes before court is scheduled to begin. Please plan on setting aside half the day for the hearing.

The Jefferson County Superior Court hears paternity cases on Fridays at 2:00pm. The Prosecuting Attorney’s Office will schedule the hearing and send notice to all parties through USPS mail. If you cannot attend the hearing, please contact the Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and they will attempt to reschedule the hearing. Please contact them as soon as you learn you cannot attend the hearing. You can also request a continuance by filing paperwork with the Superior Court.

If you are planning to come to court, please let us know if you need any accommodations in terms of language interpreters or disability. 

You will have a chance to talk to the Judge or Commissioner during the hearing.  Often, the parties are limited to five minutes.  While some people choose to hire an attorney to represent them, many do not.  You may find it helpful to make a list of the things you want to tell the Court before coming to the courtroom.

22. Who do I talk to when the parenting plan has been violated?

If the other parent has not returned your child or violated your parenting plan in another way, call 911 and report the violation to your local police department. They may ask to see a certified copy of your parenting plan.

23. The parenting plan has not been violated, but I am concerned that the other parent may disappear with my child. What can I do to prevent that?

There is probably not much you can do until there is an actual a violation of the Court’s order.  If your concerns are serious, you should have an attorney to represent you in this situation.

 If you do not have an attorney, you can contact the Clallam - Jefferson County Pro Bono Lawyers at:  1-888-201-1014.

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Passports

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1. Do I need to schedule an appointment to apply for a passport?

Yes, appointments are required for passport applications.  Please call our office at 360-385-9116 to schedule.

2. Where can I get my passport photo taken in Port Townsend?

The UPS Store and Mail Plus both offer passport photo services.

3. Can I renew my passport in your office?

If you are eligible to use form DS-82 (Passport Renewal Form), you must submit through the mail.  

4. Does my minor child have to be present when applying for their passport?

Yes.  The applicant must always be present.

5. What methods of payment are accepted for passport applications?

Passport applications require two (2) forms of payment.  1.  Must be Check or Money Order payable to Department of State.  2. Cash, Credit Card (a convenience fee applies) or Check made payable to Jefferson County Auditor.

6. Can I use my hospital birth certificate?

No.  The birth certificate must be certified and be issued by the state you were born in.

7. Can I take my own passport picture?

You can, but it must meet the passport photo requirements.  For these requirements, visit https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports/photos.html

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Port Hadlock Wastewater System

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1. Why does Port Hadlock need a sewer system?

The State of Washington adopted the Growth Management Act (GMA) in 1990. The Growth Management Act (GMA) is a series of state statutes that requires cities and counties to develop a comprehensive plan to manage their population growth. It is codified under Chapter 36.70A RCW  and Chapter 365-196 WAC. Under GMA, septic systems are not considered to be an urban service. Urban services, including municipal sewers, are required in order to have the type of development typically associated with urban areas. Jefferson County designated the Port Hadlock/Irondale area as an Urban Growth Area (UGA) because it was an area already “characterized by urban growth” (36.70A.110(1)).

The County adopted land uses and zoning that would allow additional urban development densities and intensities when public sewer connections are available. The urban zoning permitted under GMA when all urban services are available is contained in the Jefferson County Code (JCC) and allows for greater development density and more intensive land use. In the transition period until sewer connections are available, achievable densities are largely limited by the minimum space requirements needed to meet the on-site septic code, typically a 12,500 square foot lot.  A sewer also takes up less property area than a septic tank, drain field, and reserve drain field, allowing development and redevelopment at urban densities.

The Table below has web links to land use and zoning maps, and JCC land use tables for both the current (without sewer) scenario and future (with sewer) scenario. By comparing the before and after condition, it is possible to see how a sewer would create more land use potential and land value in the Port Hadlock Urban Growth Area.

	Zoning and Land Use Reference Table
	Current (No Sewer)	Future (With Sewer)
Zoning Maps	UGA Zoning Current (No Sewer)	UGA Zoning with Sewer
Allowable Land Uses	Jefferson County Code 18.15.040	Jefferson County Code 18.18.040
Mini-Storage Rule	Jefferson County Code 18.19.140	N/A
Density/Dimension	Jefferson County Code 18.30.050	Jefferson County Code 18.18.050

Housing

By referring to the maps and code sections in the table above, one can see from the Transitional Rural Zoning map that without sewer availability, much of Port Hadlock is covered by an interim zoning of Rural Residential RR-5. By way of example, RR-5 means that a 5-acre parcel could not be subdivided, and only one house and one Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) could be constructed on it. All land is subject to meeting separate septic regulations, so even smaller lots of record (lots that were subdivided prior to GMA) would typically need to be at least 12,500 square feet or a consolidation of a number of smaller lots to meet the minimum size requirement in order to be developed. This also means that in a best-case scenario, the current zoning would support 3 houses per acre if the property had been subdivided into minimum sized lots of 12,500 square feet prior to GMA. Alternatively, once a sanitary sewer is constructed, Port Hadlock has residential zoning of Low Density Residential (LDR 4-6 dwelling units per acre), Moderate Density Residential (MDR 7 to 12 units per acre) or High Density Residential (HDR 13 to 18 units per acre), making multifamily and apartment units possible in the MDR and HDR zones.

Commercial

Without sewer, Port Hadlock’s commercial core has a Transitional Rural Zone of Rural Village Center (RVC). The commercial zone along SR 19 has a Transitional Rural Zone of General Crossroads. This allows for some small-scale commercial use but there are limitations on building size, height, and lot coverage. For example, under RVC zoning the maximum building size is 20,000 square feet and maximum building height is 35 feet. Alternatively, under Urban Commercial zoning with sewer, building size is dictated by site conditions with no specified maximum building size, and building height can be up to 70 feet to allow for and accommodate increased densities. There is also some Urban Light Industrial zoning in part of the UGA once a sewer is available.

Septic Systems

Most of the buildings and businesses in Port Hadlock were developed prior to GMA and are primarily served by private septic systems. Although there is no “bright line” established in GMA regarding what residential densities are urban and what is rural, decisions from Growth Management Hearings Board cases in Jefferson County have accepted at least four (4) dwelling units per acre to be considered an urban density.  A significant amount of the current development pattern in Port Hadlock had been planned around meeting the 12,500 square foot minimum parcel size for septic systems, and would not have been allowed under current GMA regulations. The existing uses are “grandfathered”, meaning that as long as no significant changes are proposed, the current uses can continue. Until a sanitary sewer facility is available, however, redevelopment of land to accommodate higher densities cannot occur.

In the meantime, property owners must inspect and maintain their septic systems in accordance with State and County law, and when these systems fail they must be replaced with a new septic system meeting the most current on-site septic waste treatment standards. The requirements related to septic system installation continue to become more stringent. In some cases when faced with replacing a failing septic system, property owners have had difficulty applying a conventional system under current site conditions and requirements and have had to install more expensive alternative systems at a much higher cost.  Eventually, most property owners in Port Hadlock will be faced with performing a significant overhaul or complete replacement of their septic systems unless a sanitary sewer facility is constructed.  This has prompted significant interest by some property owners in the UGA for a sanitary sewer facility.

2. What areas will get sewer?

Jefferson County designated the Port Hadlock/Irondale area as an Urban Growth Area (UGA) under the requirements of the Washington State Growth Management Act (GMA) to allow future growth at urban densities and promote higher density housing and commercial land use. The boundaries of the UGA are shown on this map.

In 2008, the County completed a Sewer Facility Plan for the UGA and adopted this plan as part of the County’s overall Comprehensive Plan. The Sewer Facility Plan showed a phasing plam for sanitary sewer development starting with the Port Hadlock “Core Area.”  This is the area of mostly commercial development along State Route 116 (Ness’s Corner Road) and Chimacum Road.

Due to the challenges and high cost of starting a brand-new sewer system throughout the entire UGA at once, the County has been focusing its efforts on planning sewer availability first in the Port Hadlock Core Area, while at the same time making sure any sewer system that is put in place can be progressively expanded to serve future implementation phases and ultimately serve the entire UGA.

Significant interest in sewer service has come from property owners within the Port Hadlock Core Area. In 2018 property owners within the Core Area submitted a petition from over 100 of the parcel owners indicating support for sewer service. In response to this petition, the County commissioned a sewer feasibility study to determine whether newer technology and a different approach could be used to bring down the cost of the sewer for the initial service area in Port Hadlock.  Information about the study and its results are reported in the Port Hadlock Wastewater System Value Engineering Review (May 2019.)

This study showed that there could be considerable cost-savings over the original 2008 plan by using a small, modular treatment plant employing newly available technology and by installing a pressurized collection system (pipes in the road) instead of a traditional gravity collection system. The County is currently pursuing this option further with members of a Sewer Working Group from Port Hadlock and is updating the Sewer Facility Plan to reflect this current vision for sewer service.

3. What type of sewer is it?

The diagram below shows the primary sewer system components.  Starting at the home/business, these elements are:

• On-site elements to move wastewater from the building to the street curb
• Collection system elements consisting of pipes in the streets
• Wastewater treatment plant where sewage is processed
• Infiltration/Reuse area where clean Class A wastewater is infiltrated into the ground

Figure 1 - Wastewater System Elements

On-Site

With the pressurized sewer system currently envisioned, the on-site elements are the pipes, control panel, grinder pump, and curb box (valve) that take sewage from the home/business to sewer collection pipes located in the public right of way (street). There may be loan programs available to assist property owners with this element. These costs will vary significantly depending upon factors such as the type of home/business being served, the distance to the street, and the type of restoration required (i.e. lawn, landscaping, or pavement). The grinder pump pushes sewage down the pipes towards the wastewater treatment plant. The pumps do require care and maintenance. To ensure that pumps are installed and maintained properly, the Department of Ecology will require that this part of the system be maintained by the sewer utility company even though it is located on private property. "An Introduction to Pressure Sewers," by the Submersible Wastewater Pump Association (SWPA,) is a good source of information about pressure sewer systems.

Figure 2 - Typical On-Site Elements for a Residence or Small Business

Collection

The collection system consists of the pipes in the public streets that transport sewage to the sewage treatment plant.  Current plans for Port Hadlock call for a low-pressure collection system which uses the grinder pumps at each home or business to push the wastewater through these lines to the sewer treatment plant. Because the lines are pressurized, they can run uphill and do not need to be buried more than 4 to 5 feet below the ground. There is more flexibility in the routing of pressurized sewer lines which can help avoid other existing utilities and deep manholes are not required.  In some cases, pressurized collection lines can be installed using directional boring, a “trenchless” installation technique that requires very little excavation and disturbance. This installation method was used in Brinnon for the Dosewallips State Park sewer system, for example.

A pressurized sewer collection system can provide significant cost savings for initial installation compared to traditional “gravity” sewer lines which require deep excavations to make sure that sewage pipes flow downhill and use large lift stations to overcome hilly topography.  When traditional gravity sewers are installed in streets and highways the installation and road restoration costs can be quite high. Pressurized sewer systems are often used for small sewer systems that have fewer users or in situations with hilly topography or high groundwater tables. Gravity sewers are more typical for larger municipal systems where over the long run the high initial installation cost can be offset by savings in maintenance and operations because grinder pumps are not needed at each home/business. The original plan for the Port Hadlock sewer called for a gravity collection system; however, because initial costs were so high and grants from the State and Federal government so hard to obtain, the County is now proposing to install a pressurized collection system to keep startup costs as low as possible in the initial sewer service area.

Treatment and Disposal 

The wastewater treatment plant is where the collection system brings the sewage for treatment.  After the sewage is processed, the resulting clean Class A wastewater is fed into an infiltration pond which will allow the water to recharge the aquifer in the Chimacum watershed.  The sewer treatment process that has been approved by the Department of Ecology requires a Membrane Bioreactor (MBR). These MBR systems treat wastewater to very high standards required for infiltration on land since permitting a new sewer outfall into Puget Sound is virtually impossible.  The current proposal is to use a pre-assembled modular MBR system that essentially arrives on a truck ready to go. There are other components that still have to be constructed along with the plant such as inlet screens and storage ponds; however, these modular systems have seen rapid technological advances in recent years that make them highly cost-effective and reliable.  These units allow a sewer to start small and can be added onto as demand increases.  This avoids the need to build a traditional sewer treatment plant that may have to be oversized initially to handle future demand. In nearby Port Gamble, one of these units was recently used with good results to replace their aging sewer plant that could no longer meet today’s water quality standards. An example of this system is shown below.  

Figure 4 - Typical Pre-Assembled Modular MBR Treatment Plant

After passing through the MBR process, treated water is piped to a rapid rate infiltration pond where it quickly soaks into the ground.  Thickened sludge at the treatment site is hauled off-site to a larger sewer treatment plant where it is eventually processed into compost such as at the City of Port Townsend.

The County has purchased all of the land needed for the treatment plant site and the wastewater infiltration area and performed extensive, multi-year hydro-geologic studies, which have resulted in the County receiving the required approvals for this site and process from the Department of Ecology.  The property is located on both the north and south side of Lopeman Road in Port Hadlock.

Figure 5 - Conceptual Site Plan Showing Location of Treatment Plant and Infiltration Area on County Property

4. Where Does the Wastewater Go After It is Treated?

The Washington State Department of Ecology has determined that the wastewater from this project must be treated to Class A Reclaimed Water standards.  Raw sewage is pumped into a Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) treatment plant which first removes solids and then treats the remaining water to this high standard.  The reclaimed water is then pumped to a site on County property south of Lopeman Road in Port Hadlock where it will rapidly infiltrate into the ground to recharge the groundwater table under Chimacum Creek.  This method of wastewater treatment is being promoted by Ecology as a strongly preferred alternative to options such as direct disposal into saltwater.  Initial wastewater flows from the Phase I sewer area are estimated to be on the order of 48,500 to 75,000 gallons per day.

More information about reclaimed water is available from the Department of Ecology’s website https://ecology.wa.gov/Water-Shorelines/Water-quality/Reclaimed-water. The information is also reprinted below.

Reclaimed water

Reclaimed — or recycled — water starts out as domestic wastewater (sewage), but is then treated and tested to use for specific purposes.

After all the sewage from residences and businesses is collected and treated at a wastewater treatment plant, some is separated, further treated and cleaned, and tested to ensure it’s safe for use. It is then no longer sewage or wastewater. It is reclaimed water and can be used for many purposes.

The departments of Health and Ecology work together to permit reclaimed water projects, and protect public health and the environment.

Reclaimed water is not drinking water. It can be used for watering grass and plants at parks and golf courses, to replenish groundwater, to flush toilets in commercial and industrial buildings, or for similar purposes. It is delivered through purple pipes to help alert construction workers, plumbers, and others that it is reclaimed water and not intended for drinking.

The process of reclaiming water uses advanced technologies to filter and remove pathogens and contaminants. This turns otherwise wasted water into a valuable resource that does not need to be drawn from an aquifer or lake.

Benefits of reclaimed water — it’s the right water for the right use.

Washingtonians use reclaimed water for a wide variety of uses where you do not need drinking — or potable — water.

In addition to the uses mentioned above, reclaimed water is used for:

• Wetland restoration
• Replenishing groundwater supplies
• To increase the volume of water in rivers and streams
• Dust control and construction activities

I want to...

Learn how reclaimed water is treated so it’s safe to use

Learn more about the Reclaimed Water Rule

See the permit information

Adapting to a changing climate

As the regional climate changes, warmer springs and hotter summers will decrease the snow stored in the mountains. With reduced snow to melt, less water will be available during critical summer months for both instream needs and human water demands.

By turning wastewater into reclaimed water for reuse, we reduce the discharge of polluted water to Washington’s rivers, lakes, streams, and Puget Sound. It also allows the state’s rapidly growing communities to adapt to — and prepare for — impacts from increased population demands. This will help Washington to adapt to its growing business and economic sectors, as well as climate change.

How does the state permit reclaimed water?

The Washington State Department of Health (Health) and Ecology are both required to review reclaimed water proposals. Our agencies work together to determine if proposed treatment methods and uses will protect public health and the environment, and not affect existing water rights. The lead agency is determined based on the type of facility that will reclaim the water. That agency will only issue a permit to operate the reclaimed water system after requirements from both agencies are met.

The public has an opportunity to comment on permit conditions during the permitting process. Permits are valid for five years and the facility may renew their permit if they are in compliance.

Public health and safety are our top priorities in making, moving, and using reclaimed water

We are working in partnership with Health, along with the assistance of many stakeholders, to develop the rules governing reclaimed water. Safeguards in the rules are designed to match water quality requirements with the proposed uses. This minimizes public contact when lower quality reclaimed water is in use and prevents mixing reclaimed water and drinking water supplies.

We will monitor permitted reclaimed water facilities’ operation and performance reports to verify generators are producing reclaimed water that meets the requirements. This will help ensure water quality is protected all the way to the user.

LOTT’s East Bay Plaza Stream, which runs in front of the Hand’s on
Children’s Museum in Olympia, is a great example of reclaimed water.
It is continually disinfected and recirculated to flow again and again —
bringing hours of safe, summertime fun to the community.

How is reclaimed water treated so it is safe for use?

The treatment process for reclaiming water removes and kills harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. Reclaimed water treatment and delivery to customers (by pipe or by truck) must follow rigorous requirements in state rules and permits.

We apply the same trusted filtration and disinfection technologies used in the treatment of drinking water to reclaim water. Reclaimed water operators ensure the water is safe before use through reliable treatment and redundant backup processes in the facility design.

The treatment level required for each use depends on whether the public can be exposed to the water after it is treated. Reclaimed water must also meet existing state laws for discharge to the environment — such as to aquifers or rivers.

Treatment systems automatically divert any water that is not fully treated. This means the public will not encounter reclaimed water unless it is safe for its approved use.

We follow the Safe Drinking Water principle of “multiple protective barriers” which includes continuous monitoring, operation, and maintenance by well-trained and state-certified operators.

Reclaimed water may be used for many purposes, such as watering grass and plants at parks and golf courses or for agricultural use.

Pharmaceuticals and other chemicals of concern

Trace amounts of pharmaceuticals and other chemicals of concern have been detected in Washington’s surface water, groundwater, wastewater, reclaimed water, and sediments.

As the ability to detect these chemicals in water has improved, it is now possible to detect trace amounts of them in wastewater and reclaimed water. Studies to date show that exposure to pharmaceuticals in reclaimed water is extremely low. For example, one study showed a person would have to work in fields irrigated with reclaimed water for 28,000 years before being exposed to the equivalent of one tablet of ibuprofen.

According to recent testing, the reclaiming process does reduce or remove a number of these chemicals; however, at this time, there are no standards that set “safe” levels of exposure for these trace chemicals. We will continue to work with our partners at Health to track and respond to research in this area.

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Prosecutor

Show All Answers

1. Does the Prosecutor's Office provide copies of police reports?

No. Reports are obtained through the affected law enforcement agency.

2. How do I file criminal charges?

The Prosecuting Attorney does not investigate cases. We receive our cases directly from a law enforcement agency. If you want criminal charges to be filed, you must first contact the law enforcement agency for the jurisdiction where the crime occurred.

Jefferson County Sheriff

Port Townsend Police Department

Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife

Washington State Patrol

Please Note:

Washington State Law and the Rules of Professional Conduct prohibit the Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office from providing legal advice to members of the public.  If you have a matter that requires legal assistance, you may wish to contact Jefferson Associated Counsel, the public defender for Jefferson County, Northwest Justice Project, Columbia Legal Services, Washington Legal Help, a county bar association or a lawyer listed at the Legal Information Institute.

3. How do I find Law Enforcement Agencies?

Jefferson County Sheriff

Jefferson County Fire Marshal

Port Townsend Police Department

United States Coast Guard

Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife

Washington State Patrol

Please Note:

Washington State Law and the Rules of Professional Conduct prohibit the Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office from providing legal advice to members of the public.  If you have a matter that requires legal assistance, you may wish to contact Jefferson Associated Counsel, the public defender for Jefferson County, Northwest Justice Project, Columbia Legal Services, Washington Legal Help, a county bar association or a lawyer listed at the Legal Information Institute.

4. How do I check to see if I have a warrant?

Having a warrant out for your arrest is a serious problem that can result from a range of situations, from missed court dates to criminal offenses.  Dealing with your arrest warrant is crucial to avoid accumulating fines and further complications. If you think that Jefferson County Superior Court or District Court has issued a warrant for your arrest, first contact your attorney. If you do not have an attorney, you may contact the Jefferson County Prosecutor's Office at (360) 385-9180 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for further information. Having the Jefferson County Cause Number or the Law Enforcement number available makes accessing those records easier.

Please Note:

Washington State Law and the Rules of Professional Conduct prohibit the Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office from providing legal advice to members of the public.  If you have a matter that requires legal assistance, you may wish to contact Jefferson Associated Counsel, the public defender for Jefferson County, Northwest Justice Project, Columbia Legal Services, Washington Legal Help, a county bar association or a lawyer listed at the Legal Information Institute.

5. How do I drop charges?

You cannot “drop charges.” The Prosecuting Attorney files charges on behalf of the citizens of the State of Washington for crimes committed in Jefferson County. The decision to drop charges in any criminal prosecution can only be made by a prosecutor with the approval of a judge. The decision whether to prosecute or not prosecute is ultimately up to the prosecutor assigned to the case.

If you are a victim of a crime and you do not wish to pursue the charges that have been filed, please contact the Victim-Witness Advocate.  A victim's opinion is important, and the prosecutor will take those wishes into account when deciding regarding the case.

If you would like to discuss your case, you should speak with the prosecutor handling your matter by calling the Jefferson County Prosecutor's Office at (360) 385-9180 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Please Note:

Washington State Law and the Rules of Professional Conduct prohibit the Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office from providing legal advice to members of the public.  If you have a matter that requires legal assistance, you may wish to contact Jefferson Associated Counsel, the public defender for Jefferson County, Northwest Justice Project, Columbia Legal Services, Washington Legal Help, a county bar association or a lawyer listed at the Legal Information Institute.

6. How do I check the status of a case?

There is no online mechanism in place for public access to prosecution records. You may contact our office at (360) 385-9180 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for the status of your case. Having the Jefferson County Cause Number or the Law Enforcement number available makes finding those records easier.

Please Note:

Washington State Law and the Rules of Professional Conduct prohibit the Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office from providing legal advice to members of the public.  If you have a matter that requires legal assistance, you may wish to contact Jefferson Associated Counsel, the public defender for Jefferson County, Northwest Justice Project, Columbia Legal Services, Washington Legal Help, a county bar association or a lawyer listed at the Legal Information Institute.

7. How can someone find out who the defense attorney is on a particular criminal case?

That information is available through either the County Clerk's Office in the case of felony cases or with the District Court in the case of misdemeanors.

8. How do I apply for child support?

Please click on the Family Support Division link for detailed information.

Please Note:

Washington State Law and the Rules of Professional Conduct prohibit the Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office from providing legal advice to members of the public.  If you have a matter that requires legal assistance, you may wish to contact Jefferson Associated Counsel, the public defender for Jefferson County, Northwest Justice Project, Columbia Legal Services, Washington Legal Help, a county bar association or a lawyer listed at the Legal Information Institute.

9. How do I collect restitution?

If the court ordered the defendant to pay restitution to you, but you are not receiving any money, it could be because the defendant is still incarcerated or there may be other reasons the defendant has not made restitution payments to the Court. The Clerk of the court, in which the case was filed, will send payment to you directly as monies are received. It is important to note, it is possible you may have to wait a considerable amount of time before receiving either full or partial restitution. If you are not receiving restitution you should contact either the District Court or County Court Clerk's Office to make sure your correct address is on record.

Please Note:

Washington State Law and the Rules of Professional Conduct prohibit the Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office from providing legal advice to members of the public.  If you have a matter that requires legal assistance, you may wish to contact Jefferson Associated Counsel, the public defender for Jefferson County, Northwest Justice Project, Columbia Legal Services, Washington Legal Help, a county bar association or a lawyer listed at the Legal Information Institute.

10. How do I find a Jefferson County Jail Inmate Roster?

Click Here.

Please Note:

Washington State Law and the Rules of Professional Conduct prohibit the Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office from providing legal advice to members of the public.  If you have a matter that requires legal assistance, you may wish to contact Jefferson Associated Counsel, the public defender for Jefferson County, Northwest Justice Project, Columbia Legal Services, Washington Legal Help, a county bar association or a lawyer listed at the Legal Information Institute.

11. How do I find a lawyer?

If you need a lawyer, please contact one of the following agencies or organizations:

Jefferson Associated Counsel, the public defender for Jefferson County

Northwest Justice Project

Columbia Legal Services

Washington Legal Help

A county bar association

A lawyer listed at the Legal Information Institute

Please Note:

Washington State Law and the Rules of Professional Conduct prohibit the Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office from providing legal advice to members of the public.

12. How do I find Courts?

The court locations are posted each Wednesday in the Courthouse elevator.  Useful links are below:

Jefferson County Clerk

Jefferson County District Court

Jefferson County Superior Court

Washington State Courts

Washington State Courts Scheduled Proceedings

 (lookup court dates)

Please Note:

Washington State Law and the Rules of Professional Conduct prohibit the Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office from providing legal advice to members of the general public.  If you have a matter that requires legal assistance, you may wish to contact Jefferson Associated Counsel, the public defender for Jefferson County, Northwest Justice Project, Columbia Legal Services, Washington Legal Help, a county bar association or a lawyer listed at the Legal Information Institute.

13. How do I identify registered sex offenders in my neighborhood?

The Jefferson County Sheriff's office has a website to help people become aware of known sex offenders in their neighborhood. You will need to enter your address, city, and zip code to access the information.

Sex Offender Search

Please Note:

Washington State Law and the Rules of Professional Conduct prohibit the Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office from providing legal advice to members of the public.  If you have a matter that requires legal assistance, you may wish to contact Jefferson Associated Counsel, the public defender for Jefferson County, Northwest Justice Project, Columbia Legal Services, Washington Legal Help, a county bar association or a lawyer listed at the Legal Information Institute.

14. How do I obtain a No Contact Order?

There are several types of restraining orders available to residents of Washington State. The circumstances will dictate which order is most appropriate.

• Order of Protection: This order is obtained by a victim of domestic violence.  The victim may petition the court asJefferson for protection. If the victim has children with the offender, then the order may be in place for up to 1 year. If no children are in common, then the order can be for lifetime. The victim has the option to have this order lifted at any time. If the offender violates this order, the sanction can be a criminal offense. There is no charge for Protection Orders and they may be obtained at the district court, or the superior court.
• No Contact Orders: These orders arise out of a criminal conviction and provide protection to the victims of certain crimes.  A judge places these orders in effect and only the judge can lift these orders.  The victim does not necessarily have to agree with the order being put into place.  Victims can file a motion in front of the sentencing judge to have the order lifted if they believe they are not in danger, however, the final decision is made by the judge.
• Anti-Harassment Order: This order is for victims of crime who do not fall under the statute for domestic violence. Similar to the protection order, the victim may petition the court to ask for protection.  The order may be in effect for up to 1 year. Violation of this order can be a criminal sanction.  There is a charge for this order and it varies depending if you obtain the order from a district court, municipal court, or superior court. The victim should contact the court clerk to find out the cost.

15. How do I vacate a criminal conviction?

Not all convictions can be vacated.  To see if you qualify, review the Revised Code of Washington, or contact a lawyer.

If after reviewing the Revised Code of Washington and/or consulting an attorney, you believe you are eligible, you can submit your request to our office, by mailing the required documentation listed below.

Required Documentation:

1. A copy of your Motion. (This form can be obtained from the Washington State Courts. Be sure you get the correct type. Misdemeanor and Felony cases use different forms.)
2. A copy of your Proposed Order. (This form can be obtained from the Washington State Courts. Be sure you are get the correct type. Misdemeanor and Felony cases use different forms.)
3. A recent Criminal History Check. (Contact the Washington State Patrol at 360-534-2000 for information about their services and fees.)
4. Copies of the following documents from the criminal case you are trying to vacate:
   • The document called Information.
   • The Judgment and Sentence.
   • The Satisfaction of Judgment and Sentence.  (Be aware this only shows proof of completed financial obligations.)
   • Certificate of Discharge or Order of Dismissal or Termination Order (if one has been filed).
   • Any Orders of Modification of the Judgment and Sentence.

The Prosecutor's Office and the Court must have proof that you completed all the conditions in your judgment and sentence. This includes payment of all financial obligations.

To purchase copies of the court documents, you may contact the County Clerk's Office. You may also employ a service such as the Attorney's Information Bureau.

If you submit all the above documents to our office and are eligible for the order you are requesting, the Prosecuting Attorney will present the order to the appropriate court for approval.  If the motion is granted, the Prosecuting Attorney will file the originals with the Court and mail you a copy. If the Court denies your request, you will also be notified by mail of that decision.

If you are inquiring about "sealing your case" or "expunging," please contact an attorney. The Prosecuting Attorney’s Office will return any motions that contain requests to seal or expunge. This language must be removed before your documents can be reviewed.

IMPORTANT:

Keep a copy of all documents that you submit to our office.

Provide your current mailing address, telephone number and email address (if you have one) with your packet.

Please Note:

Washington State Law and the Rules of Professional Conduct prohibit the Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office from providing legal advice to members of the public.  If you have a matter that requires legal assistance, you may wish to contact Jefferson Associated Counsel, the public defender for Jefferson County, Northwest Justice Project, Columbia Legal Services, Washington Legal Help, a county bar association or a lawyer listed at the Legal Information Institute.

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Public Health

Show All Answers

1. How Do I Apply for a Position at JCPH?

Click here for current openings.

Send completed employment application form to the Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners, Attention: Director of Environmental Health and Water Quality, by 4:30 pm of the listed announcement closing date. Applicants are always highly encouraged to submit a resume with their application.

2. Report a HIPAA Violation?

To exercise your rights under HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), to ask for more information, or, to report a problem contact the HIPAA Compliance Officer.

HIPAA Compliance Officer
Jefferson County Public Health
615 Sheridan Street
Port Townsend, WA 98368

360.385.9400 Telephone
360.385.9401 Fax

website

If you believe your privacy rights have been violated, you may file a written complaint with the above individual or the Secretary of Health and Human Services, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201.  There will be no retaliation for filing a complaint.

Review a copy of the Notice of Privacy Practices, effective October 2013.

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Public Works

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1. How to get garbage pick up?

In the city limits call DM Disposal at 360-385-6612
In the county call Murrey's Disposal at 800-422-7854

2. How to get Power and Water?

In the county, Power and Water service is provided by PUD #1 of Jefferson County in Port Hadlock. Call 360-385-5800.
For Water in Port Townsend City Limits call the city at 360-379-5047.

3. What hours are you open?

The Public Works Office in Port Townsend is open 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Closed on County Holidays.

4. Who to contact about a State Highway?

For the WSDOT Maintenance shop in Port Angeles call 360-565-0680.
Beaver Valley Road and Rhody Drive (SR19). Ness's Corner Road to Flagler Road (SR116).

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Public Works Shop

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1. Get a deceased animal picked up?

The County Road Department picks up non-domestic animals, such as deer and coyote, that are on a county road or in the county right of way. Please contact the Road Maintenance Division at (360)385-0890 or to complete the online problem report click here.

For more information on this topic please see our Deceased Animals on County Road page.

2. How do I report a pothole?

If you would like to report a pothole on a County Road please call (360)385-0890 or complete the online problem report by clicking here.

For more information on this topic please see our Pothole Repair page.

3. How do I report a ditch or culvert concern?

To report a ditch or culvert concern please call the County Road Department at (360)385-0890 or complete the online problem report by clicking here. 

For more information on this topic please see our Ditches & Culverts page.

4. How do I request my road be graded or graveled?

To request any road maintenance please call the County Road Department at (360)385-0890 or complete the online problem report by clicking here. 

For more information on this topic please see our Grading and Graveling page.

5. What is the schedule for mowing and brush cutting?

Mowing is usually completed in the spring and summer. Brush cutting is typically done in the fall and winter. 

To request any road maintenance please call the County Road Department at (360)385-0890 or complete the online problem report by clicking here. 

For more information on this topic please see our Vegetation Control page.

6. Request a County Road be swept?

To request any road maintenance please call the County Road Department at (360)385-0890 or complete the online problem report by clicking here. 

For more information on this topic please see our Street Sweeping page.

7. When will my road be resurfaced?

We can only provide a list of what roads will be chip sealed for the current year. To see a list of these roads please visit our Chip Seal Program page. 

To report a road condition concern please call the County Road Department at (360)385-0890 or complete the online problem report by clicking here.

8. When will my road be snow plowed?

Please try to be patient.  We will get to you as soon as possible, regardless of the size of the storm. To request any road maintenance please call the County Road Department at (360)385-0890 or complete the online problem report by clicking here. 

If this is an after hours issue that needs to be immediately addressed, please report it to the Sheriff's Department at (360)344-9779 ext. 0.

9. How do I report a problem with a road sign?

To report a problem with a county road sign please call (360)385-0890 or complete the online problem report by clicking here.

If this is an after hours issue that needs to be immediately addressed, please report it to the Sheriff's Department at (360)344-9779 ext. 0.

For more information on this topic please see our Road Signs page.

10. How do I get wood chips delivered to me?

To get on the wood chip list you need to fill out the Hold Harmless Agreement and return it to the Road Maintenance Office. It will then be reviewed by the office personnel and given to a road crew member to do a site inspection before getting added to the delivery list. 

Being on the wood chip list does not guarantee you will get any wood chips at any given time.

Hold Harmless Agreement

11. How do I sign up to do volunteer litter control?

For more information on this topic see our Adopt-a-County Road page or call the Road Maintenance Office at (360)385-0890.

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Recording

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1. How do I get a copy of my marriage certificate?

Certified copies of your marriage certificate can be requested in person or through the mail.  The current cost is $3.00 per certified copy.  If purchasing through the mail, please be sure to include a self-addressed stamped envelope for its return. You can also request a copy through the Washington State Digital Archives.

2. Does the Recording Department supply blank documents or forms?

No. We do not provide blank documents or forms.  Most office supply or stationary stores carry legal forms.

3. What kinds of documents are recorded in the recording department?

The recording department records a variety of documents, including real estate documents, liens, community property agreements, power of attorney, military discharge papers and surveys.

4. How can I obtain a copy of my deed?

You can request a copy of your deed from our office in person or by mail.

5. How do I obtain a Process Server License?

You can obtain a process server license by completing an application and paying a $10 annual fee.  Licenses must be renewed yearly.

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Septic System Care

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1. How often do I need my septic tank pumped?

Your tank should be checked to measure the solids accumulation in the tank every 3 years. Learn how to inspect your tank, how to measure the solids and how to install access risers for ease of maintenance, by viewing the Monitoring / Inspection (EES) page.

2. Who should I call to pump my septic tank?

We certify septic tank pumpers for on-site sewage systems and have a list of currently licensed individuals. You can also look in the phone book under septic tanks and systems-cleaning. Ask if they are licensed in Jefferson County. View the Certified Septic System Professionals list.

3. How much does it cost to have my tank pumped?

Between $300 and $400; it depends on tank size because they pay for disposal based on gallons pumped.

4. What can I plant on my drain field?

Generally you want to use plants with a shallow root system that can be mowed or maintained. Trees and shrubs should be planted at least 10 feet away. Washington State University (WSU) has some written information on landscaping over drain fields.

If you have a specific plant you want to know about you can call WSU at 360-379-5610 and leave a message for a Master Gardener. They can tell you about the particular plant and if it would be appropriate.

5. Where else can I go for information?

Pamphlets are available on different types of systems and basics of caring for your septic system.

Check our “Quick Links” for other useful sites. They have information on different types of septic systems, landscaping and caring for your system, and controlling erosion and stabilizing banks.

View the Resources for Homeowners page.

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Septic System Complaints / Report Violations

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1. If people are living on a property without an on-site sewage system, what can I do about that?

You can contact us at 360-385-9444 and report the problem. We cannot take anonymous reports, but we can keep your name confidential. Staff from our office will investigate to determine if a violation exists and will take appropriate follow-up actions.

2. I see sewage running into the ditch or onto the beach, what can I do about that?

You can contact us at 360-385-9444 and report the problem. We cannot take anonymous reports, but we can keep your name confidential. Staff from our office will investigate to determine if a violation exists and will take appropriate follow-up actions.

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Septic System Monitoring & Evaluations

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1. My septic system is working fine. Why do I have to have it inspected?

- A septic system can impact public health and the environment in a variety of ways. Some are not as obvious as surfacing sewage or a clogged toilet. A careful inspection of the system dramatically increases the chance that problems will be discovered, and can then be corrected. In addition, regular inspections of a septic system should lead to a longer life for the system by fixing small problems before they become big problems.
- Jefferson County Code 8.15 requires that a septic system be inspected to assure that it is working properly. View the Jefferson County Code 8.15 (PDF).

2. How often does a septic system need to be inspected?

- A conventional gravity system must be inspected every 3 years.
- A system that has a pump or other alternative system must be inspected annually (every year).

3. Does my tank need to be pumped every time it is inspected?

No. The inspection will determine if your tank needs to be pumped. In general the tank will need to be pumped when the solid contents equals 1/3 of the tank volume; when the scum and sludge layers exceed 6 and 12 inches respectively; or for other reasons noted by your inspector.

4. Do I need to be present at the time of the inspection?

It is strongly recommended you be present during the inspection but it is not required.

5. How much does an inspection cost?

The cost of an inspection will vary depending on the size, complexity and how accessible your system and its components are. Contact a certified operations and monitoring specialist.

6. Who pays for the monitoring inspection?

- For an inspection at the time of sale the cost is negotiable. Either party can pay for it. The code states that an inspection that is current must be on file prior to the transfer of the title.
- Routine monitoring inspections or those required for a building permit are paid for by the property owner.

7. How do I prepare for the monitoring inspection?

The inspection ports on the top of the tank must be uncovered and loosened so that the solids in the tank can be measured and components checked. Any monitoring ports in the drain field or treatment system need to be accessible for inspection. Many septic system records images have been scanned. This may help you in locating tanks and other system components. Viewing these records via the Permit Files Online page.

8. What will the county do if I don’t have my system inspected?

Jefferson County is currently educating homeowners on the new regulations and the importance of regular inspections, and is committed to working with homeowners rather than against them. We are updating our records and making information about septic systems available to property owners. Administrative penalties or fines for non-compliance are possible.

9. What septic system upgrades are required by the county?

Installation of access risers over the outlet and pump-out opening on the septic tank and pump chamber are required. The service provider may suggest an access riser over the distribution box or installation of an outlet filters to improve the operation and maintenance of your septic system. There are no other upgrades that are required by the county unless repair are needed related to a system that is failing.

10. What happens if the inspection reveals that something is wrong with my septic system?

- Many of the problems identified are items that, if not corrected, can lead to premature failure. It is the responsibility of the system owner to make sure the corrections are made.
- Simple repairs such as replacing a septic tank baffle or broken lid can be done by the homeowner or other certified professional without a permit.
- If the problem is serious, the system is failing, backing up in the house or discharging on the surface of the ground or if components were installed without permits, you may be required to repair or replace your septic system. A permit will be required, and you will need to work with a licensed designer or professional engineer.

11. How does the County know if I do a monitoring inspection or not?

The monitoring inspection results must be submitted by the inspector online. After the report is submitted it is available for viewing by anyone by searching the address or parcel number of the property.

View reports online at Online Responsible Management Entity (RME).

12. Does the title company record the monitoring inspection?

No. View the Monitoring Inspection Record page.

13. Can I inspect my own system?

In most cases the answer is yes. You will need to take the required training to become authorized to inspect your own system. For training materials view the Resources for Homeowners page.

14. What kinds of septic systems can be inspected by homeowners?

After a homeowner completes the training and gets authorized they can inspect their system if it is a conventional gravity fed or pump system, a pressurized drain field, a mound or a sand filter.

15. What kinds of septic system cannot be inspected by homeowners?

Some systems such as Glendon biofilters, those with aerobic treatment units or drip irrigation are proprietary devices and have specific requirements for inspection. You should still become familiar with your system and understand how it works to keep it functioning properly.

16. Are other counties doing the same thing?

Yes. The counties bordering the Straits and Puget Sound are implementing similar programs to enforce the state regulations and other counties are moving forward with adopting the requirements.

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Septic Systems

Show All Answers

1. Is someone available to answer my questions?

A staff person is available to answer questions Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

2. I am looking at a piece of property to buy. What kind of system will I need?

The type of system you need depends on the type of soil and how much of the soil there is to a water table or other restrictive barrier like ‘hard-pan’ or clay. You will need to meet with a designer to discuss your plans and then dig test holes in the area identified by the designer as meeting setbacks and other necessary features. The designer will evaluate the soils and determine what type of system you will need.

You can also look on the county website at nearby properties to see what type of septic system they have. Keep in mind that some older systems may not meet current code.

Jefferson County WA Property Search

3. What is the ‘OSS Onsite Septic’ fee on my tax statement?

The Board of Health established this fee to fund the Septic Operation and Monitoring and Maintenance Program (O&M) in Jefferson County. The fee is applied for each septic system on a property. The O&M Program assures that septic systems are monitored and inspected in compliance with local and state code. Program activities include information and education for septic system owners; management of the website for eligible homeowners to become authorized to inspect their own septic system; follow-up when problems are identified during a professional or homeowner inspection; and information on low interest loans when septic system failure occurs. You can contact us at 360-385-9407 if you have further questions about the fee, or about your septic system.

4. How do I find out how much a septic system will cost?

After the designer determines what type of system is required, they can discuss the costs or you can contact a licensed installer to get a range of what a particular system might cost.

5. How do I find a designer?

View the Find a Designer page.

6. Where do I get a permit?

Usually the person designing the septic system will complete the forms, get the property owner's signature and submit the proposal for review. The application for a permit can be picked up at the Jefferson County Environmental Public Health located at 617 Sheridan in Port Townsend, Washington or download the PDF: Septic Permit Application (PDF).

7. How much does a permit cost?

View the current Fee Schedule (PDF).

8. How long will it take to get a permit?

Please contact our office with current permit processing times.

9. How do I find an installer?

We certify installers for on-site sewage systems and have a list of currently licensed individuals. Or you can look in the phone book under septic tanks and systems-contractors, designers and dealers. Ask if they are licensed in Jefferson County. View the Certified Septic System Professionals page.

10. How long is a permit valid?

A new permit is valid for 3 years. A repair permit is valid for 3 months to 1 year.

11. Can I use a gray water only system if I have a composting toilet?

Yes, however you will still need an approved drain field for the gray water. The on-site sewage system for gray water must meet the same treatment standards for the soil conditions as a combination system (black and gray water).

12. What brands of composting toilets can I use?

The State Department of Health reviews and approves water saving toilets, both composting and incinerating. We can send you the list or you can find it on the Department of Health's website.

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STI Testing/Treatment

Show All Answers

1. Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that’s easily cured with antibiotic medicine. It’s one of the most common STDs, and most people who have chlamydia don’t show any symptoms. Chlamydia is spread through vaginal, anal, and oral sex. The infection is carried in semen (cum), pre-cum, and vaginal fluids. Chlamydia can infect the penis, vagina, cervix, anus, urethra, eyes, and throat.

2. HPV

HPV stands for human papillomavirus. It’s the most common sexually transmitted infection. HPV is usually harmless and goes away by itself, but some types can lead to cancer or genital warts. About 40 kinds can infect your genital area — your vulva, vagina, cervix, rectum, anus, penis, and scrotum — as well as your mouth and throat. These kinds of HPV are spread during sexual contact.

3. Gardisil (HPV) Vaccine

Gardisil is effective in protecting against HPV infection and is recommended before sexual activity and before age 15 years, if possible. This is available at our Family Planning Clinics, School Based Health Centers and Immunization Clinics for up to age 19 years. Talk with your healthcare provider about options.

4. Genital Warts

Genital warts are common and are caused by certain types of HPV. Genital warts can be annoying, but they’re treatable and aren’t dangerous. Genital warts show up on the skin around your genitals and anus. They’re caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). You might’ve heard that some types of HPV can cause cancer, but they’re NOT the same kinds that give you genital warts.

5. Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is a common bacterial infection that’s easily cured with antibiotic medicine. It’s sexually transmitted, and most people with gonorrhea don’t have symptoms. Gonorrhea is a very common sexually transmitted infection, especially for teens and people in their 20s. Gonorrhea is sometimes called “the clap” or “the drip.”

6. Herpes

Herpes is a common virus that causes sores on your genitals and/or mouth. Herpes can be annoying and painful, but it usually doesn’t lead to serious health problems. Herpes is a super-common infection that stays in your body for life. More than half of Americans have oral herpes, and about 1 out of 6 Americans has genital herpes.

7. Syphilis

Syphilis is a really common STD. Syphilis is spread through vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Syphilis is easily cured with antibiotic medicine, but it can cause permanent damage if you don’t get treated. Syphilis is spread from sexual skin-to-skin contact with someone who has it. You get it when your vulva, vagina, penis, anus, or mouth touches someone’s syphilis sores — usually during sex.

8. HIV/AIDS

HIV is the virus that causes AIDS. AIDS stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. HIV and AIDS are not the same thing. And people with HIV do not always have AIDS. HIV is carried in semen (cum), vaginal fluids, blood, and breast milk. The virus gets in your body through cuts or sores in your skin, and through mucous membranes (like the inside of the vagina, rectum, and opening of the penis).

We offer PrEP management for high risk persons.

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Treasurer

Show All Answers

1. How can I pay property taxes?

Pay in person at the Jefferson County Treasurer's Office during office hours - Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. through 4:30 p.m.  We do accept Cash in person in the Office.

Pay with check, money order or cashier’s check (no cash) and send by USPS, or use the Treasurer’s drop box:

USPS Mail	Jefferson County Treasurer, PO Box 571, Port Townsend, WA 98368 Make sure the postmark is on or before the property tax due date to avoid interest or penalties.
Drop Box	Located in the parking lot behind the Jefferson County Courthouse at 1820 Jefferson St, Port Townsend Three additional drop boxes available for payment by check in April and October are located at: Port Townsend 1st Security Bank of Washington Port Hadlock 1st Security Bank of Washington Port Ludlow Sound Community Bank
Online	Pay by credit card (Visa, Master Card, Discover or American Express), Visa Debit, Electronic Check. Information on convenience fees are online at Pay Online -  Property Taxes and Assessments webpage.
Phone	Pay by phone at 1-877-812-8072. You must have your property ID number and know the amount to pay from your statement.
In-Person	Jefferson County Treasurer's Office at 1820 Jefferson St, Port Townsend during office hours - Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. through 4:30 p.m.

2. Can I pay property taxes with cash?

Yes, you may pay in Cash during office hours in the Jefferson County Treasurer's Office.

3. How can I get a receipt for my payment?

Include a self-addressed stamped envelope with your payment to receive a receipt. Please know that we have over 20,000 taxpayers in our county, and we cannot afford to print and mail receipts. Your canceled check or proof of payment does qualify as a receipt for tax purposes.

4. Can I pay property taxes in person in the Treasurer’s Office?

Yes. The Treasurer’s Office is open to the public for property tax payments. 

5. Why didn't I receive a statement?

Statements are mailed in February of each year.  Property owners receive statements by mail or by eNotices.  If you, your spouse or a co-owner signed up for receiving statements electronically by eNotices, you will not receive a paper statement. 

eNotices were sent from eNoticesOnline.com on February 7, 2023 at 12:36 PM PST. If subscribed, access your Jefferson County, WA property tax statement at https://enoticesonline.com/.  To Unsubscribe from eNotices and to receive hard copy property tax statements for 2024 via USPS, log in and unsubscribe at https://enoticesonline.com/. There is not an option to pay from your eNotice tax statement. Please read further for payment options.

6. Will you mail me a new property tax statement?

You may access parcel information including taxes owed on the Property Search page, and you may email us at treasurerstaff@co.jefferson.wa.us to request a duplicate statement by email.  We do not mail hard copy duplicate statements due to the expense.  A statement, envelope and postage to provide duplicate statements for our more than 20,000 property owners with 30,000 parcels is cost-prohibitive.

7. Where can I find Information about Foreclosure Assistance?

Housing counseling and legal assistance may be available at little or no cost to property owners. If you would like help determining opportunities to resolve delinquency and avoid foreclosure, you may contact the statewide homeownership hotline at 1-877-894-HOME (4663).

Information may be found online at https://dfi.wa.gov/homeownership/foreclosure.

8. Where can I find information about the Senior/Disabled Exemption Program to reduce my property taxes?

Senior citizens and disabled persons may contact the Assessor’s Office at (360) 385-9105 to determine if they qualify for a property tax exemption on their owner-occupied residence.  You must be 61 years old on December 31st of the year in which you apply or be fully disabled, and household income must be $40,000 (current year’s taxes), or $45,000 (next year’s taxes), or less. Additionally, cost of living increases to social security benefits in 2023 are not counted as income for qualifying for 2024 taxes (RCW 84.36.381 (d)).  http://www.co.jefferson.wa.us/157/Senior-Disabled-Exemption

9. Where can I find information about levies and assessments on my property tax statement?

Details about levies and assessments are available at Tax Statement Levy Explanation.  

10. Where can I find information about Washington State property taxes?

The Washington State Department of Revenue Property Tax webpage provides information and contacts for property taxes. Their Homeowner’s Guide to Property Tax answers many questions about property taxes. 

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WIC (Women Infants & Children)

Show All Answers

1. What is WIC?

WIC (Women Infants & Children) is a supplemental food program sponsored by Jefferson County Public Health for income eligible pregnant, breastfeeding and postpartum women, and children under age 5 that offers nutrition education and food vouchers.  Learn more here.

2. How Do I Sign up for WIC?

Find out if you are eligible and how to apply, and make an appointment by calling 360-385-9432. We have convenient appointment times. During the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic WIC services are provided via telephone through September 30, 2020.

3. Do I qualify for WIC?

Good news- WIC has openings  for eligible pregnant or breastfeeding women and children under 5 years old. Get nutritious foods, information about feeding children, breastfeeding education and support and referrals to important services.  Learn more here. 

Eligibility depends on household size and income.

• WIC is a nutrition program for pregnant women, new and breastfeeding moms, and children under five.

• Dad, grandparents, and other caregivers of children under the age of five may also sign kids up for WIC.

• Foster children under age five and foster teens who are pregnant are eligible for WIC.

• If you or your family member are on Medicaid, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or Basic Food you may be eligible for WIC too.

• Many working families and military families are eligible for WIC.
  For more details like income guidelines, visit: https://www.doh.wa.gov/YouandYourFamily/WIC/Eligibility

4. What do I bring to my WIC appointment?

Our friendly WIC staff will work with you to fulfill program requirements for proof of identification, proof of income, and proof of residency. Often an Apple Healthcare number could meet these requirements. If you have questions, call our helpful staff at 360-385-9432.

5. How do I make a WIC appointment?

The easiest way to make a WIC appointment is to call 360-385-9432.

6. What kinds of foods are on WIC?

WIC foods meet the special nutritional needs of pregnant, breastfeeding and postpartum moms, infants, and children up to 5 years old. WIC supports successful, long-term breastfeeding.

WIC provides a wide variety of healthy foods that includes:

Fruits and vegetables, whole grains, breakfast cereals fortified with iron and low in sugar, a variety of protein foods such as eggs, dried peas and beans, peanut butter and tofu, Good sources of calcium such as milk, cheese, yogurt, and fortified soy beverages, juice, baby food, infant formula.

For more detail about WIC foods visit: https://www.doh.wa.gov/YouandYourFamily/WIC/WICFoods

7. Do I need proof of citizenship to qualify for WIC?

Each client must be a current Washington state resident to receive benefits from the Washington State WIC Nutrition Program. There’s no time requirement for a person to be a resident before participating in WIC. U.S. citizenship is not required. WIC participation doesn’t affect a person’s immigration status. Being on WIC doesn’t make a person a “public charge”.

8. Can I get help with food for my children under 5 years old?

WIC (Women Infants & Children) is a supplemental food program for income eligible pregnant, breastfeeding and postpartum women, and children under age 5. WIC offers food vouchers, nutrition education, and health checkup screenings. Click here to learn more.

9. I need help getting formula, how do I do that?

• If you are having trouble providing enough food for your family,including formula for infants, Women Infants Children (WIC) may be able to help.  WIC is a supplemental food program sponsored by Jefferson County Public Health for income eligible pregnant, breastfeeding and postpartum women, and children under age 5 that offers nutrition education, health checkup screenings, breastfeeding support and food vouchers, including formula in some situations.

FORMULA RESOURCES: Many families are experiencing stress related to the current infant formula situation since the formula recall that started in February 2022. WIC has been working directly with WIC participants to problem solve around their family’s needs and find solutions. WIC is happy to assist families as much as possible, call 360-385-9432 for assistance.

WA DOH website with great information to address infant formula situation: Resources for Families Impacted by the Infant Formula Shortage | Washington State Department of Health

10. How can I get more fresh fruit and veggies on a limited budget?

Check out the links below to learn how you can access additional fresh fruit and veggies on a limited budget or alongside your WIC vouchers.

• WIC/Farmers Market
• Safeway Complete Eats 
• Jefferson County Farmer's Markets

11. What stores accept WIC?

• Look for the “We accept WIC” signs in store windows, ask a store clerk.
• Many stores accept WIC, locally these include the Port Townsend Co-op, Safeway, QFC (in both Port Townsend and Port Hadlock)

12. What about dads, grandparents or legal guardians and the WIC Program?

• Dads, grandparents or other legal guardians who have custody of children 0-5years old can participate in WIC.  
• Dads can be involved in NFP appointments along with mom and baby as long as mom agrees (mom and baby are the main clients and focus here but the whole family can benefit).
• Call us at 360-385-9400 to schedule
• Learn more about WIC