▼

Code Enforcement

Show All Answers

1. A neighbor is cutting down a tree and I do not see a posted Notice of Application or a permit. What do I do?

First, check the website for current tree permits. If you do not see the address and name listed, call the Planning Department.

2. What are the hours of construction in the City of Lake Forest Park?

Construction is allowed between 7:00 am and 9:00 pm on weekdays, and 8:00 am and 9:00 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.

3. How can I make a complaint about a code violation in Lake Forest Park?

You can file a complaints by calling City of Lake Forest Park Code Enforcement at 206-368-5440 or by filling out the online form. Please be sure to have the following information:

• Nature of the violation
• Street address of the violation
• Description of any vehicles (including License Number) or other items involved in the complaint

online form

4. My neighbor's tree seems to be in bad shape and looks like it may cause damage to my property. Is there anything that the City can do?

Though a dead or dying tree may pose a risk to property, there are no mechanisms by which the city may intervene in this case. Because property owners are not required by code to remove dead, dying, or hazard trees, this is strictly a civil issue.

5. How many animals can people have in the City of Lake Forest Park?

This depends on the type of animal and the square feet of lot area where the animals are located. View Lake Forest Park Municipal Code 6.04 Animals - Care and Control.

6. Who do I call about people parking their cars in their yard?

There is no Lake Forest Park City Code that prevents people from parking operable vehicles in their yards.

7. What is a "Junk Vehicle"?

Junk vehicle means a vehicle meeting at least three (3) of the following requirements: (RCW 46.55.010(4))

• Is three (3) years old or older
• Is extensively damaged. Such damage may include, but is not limited to any of the following: Broken Window or Windshield, Missing Wheels, Tires, Motor, or Transmission.
• Apparently inoperable
• Has an approximate fair market value equal only to the approximate value of the scrap in it.

8. Who do I call about junk vehicles?

Contact City of Lake Forest Park Code Enforcement at 206-368-5440.

9. Who do I call about vehicles left on the street?

Code Enforcement is responsible for Lake Forest Park City Code violations that occur on private property. Vehicles parked on the street are on the Public Right of Way and are handled by the Lake Forest Park Police Department., they can be reached at 206-364-8216.

10. Someone is living in their RV on the street or in a yard. Is this allowed?

If RV is in the yard, contact City of Lake Forest Park Code Enforcement at 206-368-5440. If RV is on the street, contact City of Lake Forest Park Police Department at 206-364-8216.

11. Who do I call about rats?

Call Public Health Seattle / King County at 206-263-8457.

12. My landlord won't let me out of my lease. What can I do?

Contact Attorney General's Office at 206-464-6684 to determine your rights under the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act. 1-800-692-5082, 8 for the Landlord-Tenant topic. For Mobile / manufactured Home Landlord-Tenant matters, press 9.

▼

Community Forest Protection and Enhancement

Show All Answers

1. What do I do with a dangerous tree on my property? I'm afraid it's going to fall over on my house.

If you suspect that you have a hazardous tree on your property, we suggest that you contact a Certified Arborist and have the tree removed before it causes any damage. Emergency removal of dangerous trees does not require a permit, but you must notify the Planning Department within one working day and apply to the planning director for review of the work performed. For more information, contact the Planning Department at 206-368-5440, stop by the Permit Center on the second floor of City Hall, or print a tree removal permit.

2. Why must I get a permit if I just want to get rid of a tree in my own yard?

The City of Lake Forest Park is committed to retaining the forested look of the city and the associated environmental benefits provided by our urban forest. However, tree removal is regulated for reasons beyond aesthetics. Tree removal without subsequent tree replacement can cause potential water runoff problems for your property and neighboring properties. Permits can also help to avoid accidental cutting of trees on public property and in environmentally sensitive areas.

3. How many trees can I remove?

It depends. As indicated above, you can remove any tree that is considered dead or diseased without a permit. You can also remove any tree that is less than six inches in diameter (at 4.5 feet above the ground). If you wish to remove one or more significant trees from your property, you should consult the Planning Department. Significant trees are defined as any healthy tree that has diameter of six inches or greater. See the Tree Protection Regulations and Tree Removal Guide for more information, or read the full ordinance in the Lake Forest Park Municipal Code.

4. What can I do about a neighbor's tree? Its leaves are falling on to my property; in fact, the whole tree is about to fall on to my property.

Washington case law has determined that these issues are a civil matter between the neighbors involved. Though a dead or dying tree may pose a risk to property, there are no mechanisms by which the City may intervene in this case.

5. What about trees in the right of way? Are those the responsibility of the city?

The city’s policy leaves the responsibility of maintaining the right of way to the adjacent property owners. If there is a tree in front of your property that you wish to remove, you must obtain a tree removal permit. This also allows property owners to plant trees and other vegetation in the right of way in front of their property. If you need to block any part of the road or sidewalk to remove the tree, you will also need to fill out a Right of Way Permit Application.

6. How do I determine what kind of trees to replant?

All trees must be chosen from the Lake Forest Park Approved Tree List. For permits that require consultation with an arborist, replacement trees will be recommended to ensure that appropriate trees are planted.

▼

Engineering

Show All Answers

1. How do I submit a request for traffic calming in my neighborhood?

Please contact the City of Lake Forest Park at 206-368-5440 or visit City Hall during regular business hours.

2. Where can I access bid materials?

All bid materials are posted to Builder's Exchange of Washington.

▼

Finance

Show All Answers

1. Can I have my sewer bill emailed to me?

Currently the City does not offer paperless billing.

2. Can I pay my sewer bill using a credit card?

Currently the City accepts checks, cash, and money orders for payment of sewer bills. We are unable to take payment by credit card at this time. We do not currently offer “auto-payments” or “on-line payments”. However, many of our customers pay via the bill pay services offered through their banking institutions.

3. How do I sign up for auto-pay for my sewer bill?

Currently the City accepts checks, cash, and money orders for payment of sewer bills. We are unable to take payment by credit card at this time. We do not currently offer “auto-payments” or “on-line payments”. However, many of our customers pay via the bill pay services offered through their banking institutions.

4. My bill has "Electronic Service Requested" printed above my name and address. What does this mean?

The phrase "Electronic Service Requested" on the sewer bill is messaging meant for the postal workers. It informs them that the City has electronic notification of address changes. The City is not requesting that you sign up for on-line payments or auto-pay.

5. My house is vacant and no one is using water. Why do I have to pay for sewer?

In Lake Forest Park the residential sewer rate is a flat rate. It is not base on water usage or consumption. It is based on being connected to the system.

▼

Human Resources

Show All Answers

1. How do I know if a job opportunity is available with the City?

To find out if a job is available with the City, first review the job postings on the city’s website. All openings at the city are posted on the Job Opportunities page of the city’s website. The City only accepts applications for those positions which are currently open and posted.

2. How do I apply for a job opening with the City?

The job opportunity posting will describe the specific steps to take to apply for that position. In almost all cases, you should complete the City’s employment application and submit it, along with a resume and a cover letter expressing your interest in the position. If there are further forms to complete or steps you need to take, they will be described in the specific job opportunity posting.

3. Should I submit a job application or send in my resume to the City if there are no positions currently open?

The City only accepts job applications or resumes for positions which are currently open and which are posted on the website. The City does not accept, review or retain job applications or resumes from applicants who are expressing a general interest in working for the City.

▼

Main

Show All Answers

1. How do I contact a city/county department?

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

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

▼

Municipal Court

Show All Answers

1. What do I do if I receive an infraction?

Begin by carefully reading your citation. You must respond to the infraction within fifteen (15) days from the violation date. A failure to respond will result in the suspension of your drivers license, further penalties and collections. You can respond by completing the information in the box in the lower right hand corner of the citation and either mailing the citation to the court or bringing it in person to the clerk's office. Court dates will not be given out over the phone. Select one of the boxes in the lower right hand corner and verify your address. If you choose box 1, you are electing to pay the infraction. Box 2 indicates a "guilty" response and box 3 indicates "not guilty" response. A hearing notice will be mailed to you. It will include information to request a hearing by mail or an electronic hearing.

2. What is a Mitigation Hearing?

A mitigation hearing is held when you admit you committed the violation but wish to explain the circumstances to the judge. To request a mitigation hearing, mark box 2 in the lower right hand corner of your citation. The judge may adjust your penalty based on your explanation. The court is required to forward all committed traffic citations to the Department of Licensing and it will appear on your driving record. Mitigation hearings can be held by mail and email.

3. What is a Contested Hearing?

A contested hearing is held when you believe you did not commit the violation. To request a contested hearing, mark box 3 in the lower right hand corner of your citation. The officer will not be present unless you file an officer subpoena which is available from the clerk. Discovery requests should be made in writing to the prosecutor's office. You may testify, present evidence or witnesses at a contested hearing. In the event you have requested witnesses, you may be required to pay court costs. If you have a contested hearing and lose, the penalty may stay the same. Contested hearings may also be held by mail and email.

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

The infraction will go on your Department of Licensing driving abstract if you pay the penalty, mitigate or if the judge finds you have committed the infraction. Neither the judge nor the court clerk has the authority to keep the infraction off of your record.

5. What is the Deferred Finding Program?

This program allows you to keep an infraction off your record. You must admit the offense, not have had a deferred finding within the past 7 years, enter into a 6 month probationary period and pay a $175 administrative fee within 30 days of entry.

6. What will happen if I don't pay my ticket or appear for my hearing?

A failure to pay or respond to the citation within 15 days will result in a finding of committed. If you requested a hearing and did not appear, a $52 late penalty is added to the original amount of the citation and payment is due immediately. An unresolved citation will show as a "hold" against your license through the Department of Licensing. In this case, payment must be by cash or its equivalent. Personal checks will delay processing and adjudication for approximately 10 days.

7. What about an insurance ticket?

If you receive a citation for no proof of insurance at the time of the stop, and you actually had insurance, you may file the proof with the court clerk and pay a $25 administrative fee, and the infraction will be dismissed,

8. Can I have my hearing held electronically on-line by email?

You may be able to have Mitigation, Deferred Finding and Teen Court hearings via email. You must have a valid email address. There may be an additional fee involved.
Click for electronic hearing information

9. Can I have my hearing held in writing by mail or fax?

Both mitigation and contested hearings can be done by mail or fax. There is no right to appeal from a contested hearing by mail. If the charge is related to an insurance, registration or license violation, you must provide proof of these documents before the court will consider the penalty. You may also request a deferred finding by mail.

10. What about my right to an appeal?

If you do not win at a contested hearing, you have the right to appeal to the Superior Court of King County. The notice of appeal must be filed within 30 days of the judgement There will be costs, payable in advance, including a $110 filing fee. The Superior Court will review the record that was made at the municipal court level, but there will not be a new trial. Appeal packets are available from the clerk. There is no appeal from a finding of committed following a contested hearing by mail.

11. What if I can't pay my fine all at once?

If you cannot pay your fines in full at the time of the hearing, the clerk will allow you to sign a time payment agreement. This is a contract with the court for installment payments. Failure to abide by the contract will result in additional penalties, possible suspension of your drivers license and assignment to collection. There is a $10 set up fee.

▼

Municipal Services

Show All Answers

1. When does the City Council meet?

Regular Business meetings of the City Council are held on the second and fourth Thursday of each month from January through October, and the second Thursday of November and December at 7:00 pm at City Hall. Work Session meetings are held on the Monday preceding the fourth Thursday Business meeting at 6:30 pm.

2. How do I request a public record?

Please complete and submit the Public Record Request Form. For further information, please contact the City Clerk at 206-957-2809.

3. How do I apply for a passport?

Passport application services are offered on Monday, Tuesday, and Friday, 12 noon - 5:00 pm and Saturday, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm. Please check our web page or call 206-957-2834 for details regarding fees and documents to bring with you.

▼

Passports

Show All Answers

1. How do I apply for a passport?

Passport application services are offered on Monday and Friday, 12 noon - 5:00 pm, and on Saturday, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm. (The passport desk is closed Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.) Please check our web page or call 206-957-2834 for details regarding fees and documents to bring with you.

2. What if I don’t have a state-certified birth certificate?

You may obtain a state-certified birth certificate by contacting the city or town where you were born, or you may order one at VitalChek, or by phone: 1-800-255-2414.

3. How long does it take to get a passport?

Passports are mailed directly to your mailing address in four to six weeks.

4. What if I need a passport in a hurry?

Passport applications can be expedited for an additional fee. Expedited passports are received in two to three weeks. If you are leaving in less than 14 days, you will need to call the Seattle Passport Agency Office at 1-877-487-2778 to schedule an appointment.

5. Can I track my passport application online?

Yes. You may track the status of your application online in approximately 7-10 days from the date of the application by visiting Travel.State.Gov.

6. Do children or infants need passports?

Yes, there is no age minimum.

7. Can I renew my passport by mail?

Yes, you may renew by mail under the following circumstances:

• You already have a passport that is not damaged; and
• It was issued within the past 15 years; and
• You were at least age 16 when it was issued; and
• You still have the same name as in passport (or you can legally document your name change)

8. For passport renewals for minors, what do I need to bring?

You will need to bring the expired passport with a copy of the certified birth certificate, and both parents (if under the age of 16). Their social security number will also be needed on the application.

9. What if my passport has been lost or stolen?

Report the loss on Form DS-64 when you apply in person for a new passport. If you are traveling abroad, immediately report the loss to local police authorities and the nearest embassy or consulate.

10. What if I have had a name change?

If your most recent U.S. passport was issued less than one year ago, use form DS-5504. Include certified evidence of name change or other change in descriptive data and one new passport photo and mail it to address on form to get a new passport free of charge.

If your valid U.S. passport was issued more than one year ago, use form DS-82. Include certified evidence of name change or other change in descriptive data, one new photo and a check, and mail it to address on form.

11. Where can I get additional information and passport forms?

You may get additional information or download forms online at Travel.State.Gov. You may also call the Lake Forest Park Passport Office: 206-957-2834.

▼

Permit Center

Show All Answers

1. Do I need a building permit?

Any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by adopted codes, or to cause such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit. International Residential Code Section 105, Titled Permits Section R105.1 Required.

2. Do I need a permit for a fence? What about a deck?

If you wish to build a fence in a residential neighborhood, you do not need a permit to proceed if the proposed fence is:

- in the front yard or 20 feet from the front lot line and less than four feet high; or
- in the back yard and less than 6 feet high.

You should also be sure of your property lines before you proceed. Check with your neighbors and be sure you are not infringing on any of their property. In addition, fences may not be placed within the sight distance triangles. Please see the Lake Forest Park Zoning Code for details.

As for decks, a permit is required per the International Residential Code. Please see the Residential Deck Checklist.

3. Do I need a permit to reroof my house?

If you are removing and replacing a roof and it’s like to like material, there are no structural changes, and no replacement of plywood, a permit is not required. If you are removing and replacing a roof and the material is different, there is structural change or there is replacement of plywood, a permit is required.

4. Do I need a permit to remove a tree?

In almost all cases, a permit is required to remove any significant tree in Lake Forest Park. There are several types of permits. For an overview of the tree removal and replacement regulations, view the Tree Canopy and Preservation Guide.

5. What if I'm working with electrical systems?

Electrical systems are regulated, permitted, and inspected by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I).

6. What can I do if my project does not comply with the zoning regulations?

The easiest option is usually to modify your project to fit the zoning regulations. However, you can challenge the zoning of your area by applying for a rezone or apply for a variance. To understand all your options, contact the Planning and Building Department.

7. What are the zoning restrictions for my property?

The restrictions vary depending on the zoning regulations. View Single Family Residential Zoning Information for an initial list of restrictions, but we recommend you consult the Planning and Building Department to determine any restrictions your property may have.

8. Does my permit expire?

All permits are non-transferable and will expire 180 days from issuance and the date of the last approved inspection.

9. When can I turn in my permit application?

Office hours are 9:00 am – 2:00 pm Monday through Friday. Applications will only be accepted at these times.

10. How do I get more information?

Continue to look through the online Permit Centerfor more information, forms, and applications. An in-person visit can help you best understand the process and materials you will need to submit. The Permit Center is located on the first floor of City Hall and is open Monday through Thursday 9:00 am-1:00 pm.

▼

Planning & Building Department

Show All Answers

1. Can a home business store goods, materials, or products outside their home?

No - a home business must be conducted wholly within the home or garage / accessory structure area, with the exception of play equipment related to a home daycare business.

2. Is a permit required for all permanent signs in the city? Is there a cost?

Yes. A sign permit must be obtained to install a new, altered, or relocate a sign. Fees are based primarily on the estimated value of the proposed sign. Any business applying for a sign permit will also need to obtain a City of Lake Forest Park business license.

3. What are the rules for political signs?

Political signs may be placed on public rights-of-way or on private property with permission of the owner. However, they must be situated in such a way so as to not create a traffic or safety hazard. All political signs must be removed within five days following the election.

4. Are businesses allowed to advertise with sandwich board signs?

Sandwich board signs (also known as "A-boards") are allowed only for special events, including sales and grand openings. These signs may not exceed 12 square feet per side, block sidewalks, bike trails, or driveways, and should not be placed in street medians. Balloons, flags, festoons, pennants, and the like may not be attached to any sandwich board sign. Sandwich board signs must be placed on the ground; they cannot be elevated or suspended above the ground.

5. What about real estate properties? Are they allowed to display sandwich board signs?

Yes. Real estate properties are allowed to display one sign per street frontage, not to exceed six square feet and six feet in height. One open house sign per street frontage is also permitted. A maximum of four open house signs are permitted in the right of way between 8:00 am and 7:00 pm for up to two days, given that the signs are not in the way of travel and do not create a traffic or safety hazard. Signs must be removed within five days of the property being closed, leased, or rented, as the case may be.

6. Does the city restrict certain materials from entering my neighborhood?

Yes, The city does not allow any toxic, explosive, flammable, combustible, corrosive, radioactive, or other restricted materials to be stored or used on the site. The city is careful to review this potential problem area.

7. How do I know if the type of business I want to start is allowed in my home?

Please contact the Planning and Building Department by telephone at 206-957-2832.

▼

Police Department

Show All Answers

1. How do I request a copy of a police report?

You may request a copy of a police report by completing a Public Disclosure Request (PDR). You may come into the office or call 206-364-8216 to request the form. A completed, signed PDR will be accepted by fax, e-mail, or by dropping the form off at the Police Records Department.

2. How do I find out what crimes are happening in my neighborhood?

You can view Crime Reports at https://www.crimereports.com to see what crimes are happening in your neighborhood. There you will find an interactive map with crime data linked to the addresses.

▼

Public Works

Show All Answers

1. The street light in front of my house is out. Who do I contact?

Seattle Public Utilities maintains the street lights in Lake Forest Park. If you notice a light is out or malfunctioning, you can report it electronically using the Streetlight Trouble Report Form at http://www.seattle.gov/light/streetlight/form.asp, via phone at (206) 684-7056, or via email at street.light@seattle.gov.