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1. I'm not sure if I live within Washougal city limits or the greater county. How can I find out?

You can type your address into this online tool to find out if you live in Washougal city limits or Clark County: https://clark.wa.gov/code-administration/fireworks 

2. When can I purchase fireworks in Washougal?

Legal fireworks can be purchased during the following time period:

• July 2: 9am-11pm
• July 3: 9am-11pm
• July 4: 9am-11pm

3. Where are the fireworks stands located in Washougal?

There is a fireworks stand at 3003 Addy St. near Bi-Mart.

4. If I buy fireworks in another area, like the county or another city, can I use them in Washougal?

Yes, as long as they are legal AND meet the definition of Safe and Sane. See definitions below. 

LEGAL

“Safe and sane” fireworks are those that are neither projectile nor explosive—basically anything that doesn’t leave the ground.

This includes:

• Fountains
• Sparklers
• Smokeballs
• Snake-type fireworks
• Ground-spinning fireworks
• Pinwheels
• Most novelty fireworks
• Toy-trick noisemakers
• Some crackling items

ILLEGAL

Fireworks that fly, explode or travel more than one foot into the air or more than six feet on the ground.

This includes:

• Firecrackers
• Salutes
• Chasers
• Rockets
• Aerial missiles and spinners
• Mortar-type fireworks
• Roman candle-types
• Any other device (combination or novelty) that is structurally or functionally similar

5. When should I call 911 regarding fireworks?

Please call 911 if you see the following:

• Someone is injured from a firework
• There is a fire started by a firework
• You witness someone attempting to start a fire with a firework
• You witness someone assaulting someone with a firework

Do Not Call 911 or 311 if:

• Your neighbors are setting off fireworks
• It is 10:30 PM and you need to get up early tomorrow
• The noise is upsetting your animals
• Non-Emergency calls should go to 360-597-7888

6. Should I call 311 for complaints?

COMPLAINTS - DO NOT CALL 911 OR 311 UNLESS THERE IS AN EMERGENCY

To record a complaint related to 4th of July activities in Clark County, please call (360) 597-7888.

SAVE 9-1-1 CALLS FOR TRUE EMERGENCIES

During the 4th of July holiday weekend, CRESA (Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency) asks that residents not call 911 or 311 to report fireworks. Instead they can call 360-597-7888 during the 4th of July weekend to record fireworks nuisance complaints.  Only call 911 to report if you witness or see something on fire or if there is a medical or life-threatening emergency. Callers reporting nuisances or noise complaints around fireworks delay or block other callers with life-threatening emergencies from reaching 911. 

LAW ENFORCEMENT RESPONSE DURING 4th OF JULY HOLIDAY

Law Enforcement from Battle Ground, Camas, La Center, Ridgefield, Vancouver, Washougal, Yacolt and the Clark County Sheriff’s Office must prioritize their response during periods of high demand.  Illegal use of Fireworks and noise complaints are most often non-emergent in nature.  

During the busy Fourth of July holiday, law enforcement often must delay or suspend their response to non-emergency requests for service in order to respond to emergency events (assault, robbery, etc.). Protecting lives and preserving property are the highest priorities.

What can you do?

1. Talk to your neighbors first
2. Prepare your household for the reality that people will use fireworks
3. Remember fireworks are legal in many portions of Clark County.

If you witness or see something on fire, if there is a medical or life-threatening emergency, please call 9-1-1.

7. When should I NOT call 911?

Do Not Call 911 if:

• Your neighbors are setting off fireworks
• It is 10:30 PM and you need to get up early tomorrow
• The noise is upsetting your animals

COMPLAINTS - DO NOT CALL 911 OR 311 UNLESS THERE IS AN EMERGENCY

To record a complaint related to 4th of July activities in Clark County, please call (360) 597-7888.

July 3rd and 4th are the busiest times for our 9-1-1 dispatch center and First Responders with call volume tripling. Injuries and fires will take priorities, and other regular calls for service are still happening and need to be addressed such as medical calls and car accidents. Please note there may be delays in response due to extreme call volume.

What can you do?

1. Talk to your neighbors first
2. Prepare your household for the reality that people will use fireworks
3. Remember fireworks are legal in many portions of Clark County.

If you witness or see something on fire, if there is a medical or life-threatening emergency, please call 9-1-1.

8. What can happen if I get caught using illegal fireworks?

Violations will be punished with a civil infraction and by a fine of:

• $250 – first offense
• $500 – second offense
• $750 – third offense
• $1,000 – each subsequent offense within a three-year period

In addition to citations being issued, any illegal fireworks may be seized.

9. Can I be held liable for damage and costs incurred in suppressing fires caused by use of fireworks, by myself or my child?

Yes! You may be subject to arrest for Reckless Burning in the First Degree 9A.48.040 or Second Degree 9A.48.050 depending on what type of structure or property is damaged, even if you did not intend on damaging it. Additionally, if you use fireworks in a reckless manner and someone is injured as a result, you may be subject to arrest for Unlawful discharge or use of fireworks 70.77.488.

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1. Where is Hartwood Park?

Hartwood Park is located at 2211 49th St, Washougal, WA 98671.

2. Why is a disc golf course being built at Hartwood Park?

This concept was developed in 2011 and was unanimously approved by the Park Board. During the park master planning process, the park master plan identified that the community wanted a disc golf course. After reviewing all the park locations Hartwood became the best option. 

3. What are the City’s goals for the disc golf course project?

The City’s goals for the disc golf course project are:

1. Design a course that will be an asset to the neighborhood and community and provide recreation opportunities for all ages.
2. Develop an outreach program with the neighbors to share the design, next steps, and balance between community needs and neighborhood happiness.
3. Work with an environmental firm to permit and do any necessary mitigation for this course. This effort requires removing some of the blackberry bushes, which has already been initiated.
4. The disc golf course design will be 9 holes with clear directional signage and will be safe for the playground and walkers.

4. How can the neighbors and the community provide comments?

The City will provide updates on this project via social media (Facebook, Twitter and Nextdoor), Zoom meetings (Parks Board and City Council), mailers, and neighborhood meetings. Neighbors and community members can submit feedback on most these platforms in addition to the form on this website or by clicking XXX.

5. Why wasn’t the community surveyed or asked if they wanted a disc golf course?

This concept was developed in 2011 and was unanimously approved by the Park Board. During the park master planning process, the community was involved in developing this plan and the recommendations were noted in the plan. Since that vote, the disc golf has been talked about in Park Board meetings and shared at a Council Workshop (CIP prioritization meeting in February 2021).

6. What is the City going to do about discs that fly over the green belt into neighborhood driveways and yards?

The City has hired a professional disc golf course designer and safety of the course the number one priority.

7. People have been seen going through the bushes and greenway with machetes to cut away to get to their lost discs. Neighbors are concerned over the safety. What is the City doing to mitigate this issue

The City has adjusted a larger disc buffer zone around the baskets, making it less likely the discs will go into these areas.

8. This area used to be a nice walking path, is that still going to be the focus?

The course designer’s focus is to protect the walking paths. The paths will not change; the baskets will be moved to a location that makes walking safe.

9. Neighbors have noticed rowdiness, people cussing and consuming alcohol while playing at the course. What is the City doing to get more control over the park?

All City parks in our area have seen an increase in cussing, drinking, and vandalism. The City realizes this is a problem for all parks and are working to manage this issue.

10. There are not enough spaces for the large amount of people this would bring in and people have been parking in neighborhoods. Where will people park who are playing the disc golf course?

The focus for this course is to make it a family fun disc golf course. When the first design was created it was an 18-hole course, which brings in more of the disc golf community. Now that the course is 9 holes, it becomes a more family friendly recreation opportunity rather than a full course.

11. When will I get to see the layout of the disc golf course?

The City will release the disc golf map once it becomes final. The process involves completing permitting requirements and an environmental review before the map becomes final.

12. Why is the City cutting up the wetland areas?

The goal is to remove nonnative species, such as Himalayan blackberry because that will increase the potential for improved habitat and eliminate some of the native planting from dying because they were choked out by the blackberries. The City is working hard on the riparian buffer area and existing wetland area to enhance this with additional plantings, which will help to increase native plant diversity and richness.

13. Why are correction crews working in Hartwood and is that safe?

All cities utilize correction crews to help with routine maintenance in parks. The corrections crews are made up of minor offense criminals and always have a sheriff on site.

14. Why is Hartwood/Campen Creek Bridge closed?

The City has been keeping an eye on this bridge for a couple of years. City staff recently evaluated the bridge and found that failures have gotten worst. The City has requested dollars in the 2022 budget to replace the bridge, which have been approved.

15. Why are people working in the wetland buffer zone?

Once some of the invasive blackberry bushes are removed, the City will start planting native plantings in these areas. Everything being done in this area is to improve the buffer zone.

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1. How am I to know if a business is legitimately licensed in the City of Washougal?

Contact City Hall at 360-835-8501 and inquire about the business or conduct a search by business name at the Washington State Department of Revenue website.

2. How am I to know in what zone the sign is located?

Contact the Community Development Department at 360-835-8501 with the exact location of the sign, or stop by City Hall at 1701 C Street and look at the official Washougal Zoning Map.

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1. What is a "scatter garden"?

A "scatter garden" is a special area set aside in the cemetery in which uncontained cremated remains may be placed in the ground. The cemetery staff will make an opening in the ground into which the cremated remains will be placed, "scattered", and then buried. The cremated remains are not recoverable once placed and no map is kept of exactly where in the garden they were placed. Detailed records of the burial of all remains in this area will be kept by the City and a memorial name marker will be added to the Memorial Stone.

2. Are grave markers allowed?

No, grave markers/headstones are not allowed in the scatter garden. Each person interred in the Cremain Memorial Garden will have a bronze name plaque placed on the memorial stone in the center of the area.

3. Can we have a name plaque on the memorial stone for someone who is buried elsewhere?

Plaques placed on the memorial stone are only for those buried within the scatter garden. The Washougal Memorial Cemetery does not have a memory wall at this time for tributes to persons buried elsewhere.

4. Are we able to have a "graveside" funeral service in the scatter garden?

The package price allows for burial with or without service set up and placement of a bronze name plaque on the memorial stone. Cemetery staff will set up the appropriate equipment for families to hold their service in the Cremain Memorial Garden. However, cemetery staff is only responsible for burial place preparation/closing; cemetery equipment set up/take down and plaque placement.

5. How do I find out more information on being placed in the scatter garden?

If you would like more information on scatter garden placement, or any of our cemetery services or lots, please contact Kelly Brown 360.835.2662 x201, or email kelly.brown@cityofwashougal.us

Thank you for contacting Washougal Memorial Cemetery. Please fill out the inquiry form so that staff can better assist you.

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1. I noticed some employees in the park spraying. What are they spraying for? What are they using?

Please feel free to contact us at our Operations number at 360-835-2662 and we will be glad to let you know what we are spraying for and what materials we are using at that time.

2. Who do I contact regarding mosquito control?

The Mosquito Control Board. They can be reached at:

Clark County Mosquito Control District
Mario Boisvert, District Manager
PO Box 5032
Vancouver, WA. 98668
Phone : 360-574-7906

3. Who do I contact to report that a street light is out?

For all street light related problems please call Clark Public Utilities directly at 360-992-3000.

Please have the following information ready:

• The address of the street light
• Any other information that might help crews find and repair the light
• The nearest cross street, what side of the street the light is on
• Your name and phone number

Online Form

You may also visit Clark Public Utilities to fill out an online form.

4. Who do I contact to report a missing or damaged street sign?

Contact the Streets Department at 360-835-2662 to report this to the Operations Center office. After business hours please call Sonitrol at 360-735-9509.

5. Who should I contact with questions about my monthly utility bills?

City Hall will be able to help you with any utility bill questions. The number is 360-835-8501. Information about utility billing may also be found on the Utility Billing webpage.

6. Who handles dead animals or debris in the road?

The Streets Department can be called at 360-835-2662 to report this to the Operations Center office.

7. When does the City sweep the streets?

The street sweeper will be out during the first full week of the month on a reoccurring basis. Please remember that sweeping may be delayed due to equipment failure, weather, scheduling, and other related issues. 

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1. How will this year’s Pumpkin Harvest Festival be different?

This year’s festival will once again be different due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The City of Washougal is holding the Pumpkin Harvest Festival as a Trick-or-Treat walk-thru event at Hathaway Park this year. Free pumpkins and goodie bags of Halloween toys and treats will be given away. Children (and adults!) are encouraged to wear their costumes. Physical distancing and low-contact guidelines will be observed at this event to keep you and your family safe. Please wear a face covering.

In years past, local families would dress in Halloween costumes and gather at Reflection Plaza in downtown Washougal for children’s games, free snacks, entertainment and of course, a free pumpkin! Unfortunately, the event will not proceed in this way.

2. What park will the Pumpkin Harvest Festival be at and at what time?

The Pumpkin Harvest Festival Trick-or-Treat Walk-Thru will be held at Hathaway Park (732 25th St, Washougal, WA 98671) from 2-5pm.

3. Will there be games and prizes this year?

No, there will not be games this year. The city will provide Halloween bags that children can take to different areas of the event to receive toys, treats and a pumpkin. While supplies last.

4. How is the City of Washougal keeping families safe at this event?

This event gives families an opportunity to wear their Halloween costumes and trick-or-treat through Hathaway Park. Physical distancing and low-contact guidelines will be observed at this event. Please wear a face covering.

5. Who can I contact with questions about this event?

For details contact Rose Jewell, City of Washougal at Rose.jewell@cityofwashougal.us.

6. How much does this event cost?

This event is FREE for Washougal families. Pumpkins and prizes will be distributed while supplies last.

The Washougal Pumpkin Harvest Festival is presented by the City of Washougal, along with partnerships with Columbia River Realty who donated toward purchase of the pumpkins. Thank you to our partners: Washougal Police Department, Camas-Washougal Fire Department, Washougal Community Library, ReFuel Washougal

7. Can we wear our costumes?

Absolutely! We are encouraging all to wear costumes at this event, but keep in mind that a plastic costume mask is not a substitute for a cloth face covering. Please wear a face covering.

8. What if it's raining outside?

This event will take place rain or shine!

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1. How to report an issue via the web?

1. The first step is to sign up from the YourGov website to report an issue and track the progress through completion.
2. Type an address in the Search for a location text box, be sure to click the plus sign to open the Report an Issue form.
3. View the map to ensure the orange circle marks the location of the issue, if needed drag the circle to the correct location.
4. Verify the address on the Report an Issue form. Be specific as possible to assist us in locating your issue.
5. Select an issue type from the drop down list.
6. Write a detailed description of the problem. This is important to ensure your issue is addressed promptly.
7. Optionally, you may add an image of the issue in the form of a jpeg. Click the Browse for an image file at the top of the form.
8. After filling out the form with as much detail as possible, click Submit.
9. Your issue will be automatically submitted to the appropriate City department.

Tracking Your Issue

While you can submit issues anonymously, for best results create an account by clicking Sign Up. Those who have an account can track the response to their issues and can also be contacted for more information when necessary to complete the request. If you have signed in, you can view your issues under the My Issues tab and you will receive an email notification when an issue has been addressed.

2. Want to report an issue via cell phone or tablet?

YourGOV currently supports the Apple iPhone and Android powered smart phones. As with the web application, you can report an issue, which in turn will be brought into the City’s Work Management solution. In addition, by using a smart phone to submit, a picture can be attached to the issue.

Download the YourGOV phone application for iPhone/iPad or Android.

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1. Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my property?

Maybe. In most cases, you do not need a permit to remove a tree on your property at this time. However, if the tree is located within a critical area, you may need a Critical Areas Permit in order to remove the tree. There are exemptions to this requirement for hazard trees and documentation must be submitted demonstrating that the exemption applies. The Community Development department will review your documentation and process the exemption.

If the tree is located in the right-of-way or is a street tree, you will need a right-of-way permit. One rule of thumb in determining where the right-of-way is located is to look for city owned items such as water meter boxes and utility poles. Anything between those objects and the curb is most often located within the right-of-way.

2. Do I need a permit to plant a tree on my property?

If you plan to plant within the right-of-way you will need a permit. If you're planting upon any other area of your property, you do not need a permit. No matter where you intend to plant, be sure to call ahead for utility locates before you begin digging. You can call 811 or 800-424-5555. Locates are typically performed within 48 hours, excluding weekends and holidays.

3. My neighbor’s tree is growing over my property line, can I cut it?

Yes you can. You are within your right as the property owner to remove any portion of the tree that grows over the property line. However, this is not always what is best for the tree. We encourage you to work with your neighbor to come to a solution that is acceptable to you and your neighbor while keeping in mind what is best for the health of the tree. Please weigh this option carefully; as you could be held liable if the work you do prompts the failure of the tree.

4. Who is responsible for the maintenance of my street tree?

The property owner is responsible for the maintenance of street trees.  All trees with adjacent pedestrian usage shall maintain 7 feet of clearance to the lowest branches. When adjacent to a roadway, no limbs or other vegetation shall extend beyond the curb line or edge of the asphalt for a distance of 7 ½ feet above the road surface.

5. I am concerned about a tree located within a critical area or buffer zone. What should I do?

Call us and we will help you determine ownership of the tree. If the tree is located on the property of another, we can help you resolve the issue with the other property owner. If the tree is hanging over your property line, please see question number 3.

6. Does the City have an urban forest ordinance or an ordinance protecting trees?

No, at this time the City does not have an urban forest ordinance; however, a tree may still be protected.

7. Is the practice of “windowing” or “skirting up ” trees allowable in the City of Washougal?

Windowing is the act of removing a select branch or two higher up in a large tree to allow for a view of a scenic area. Skirting up a tree means removing some of the lower branches to allow for a view of a scenic area or to allow for passage under the tree. Both of these are presently accepted practices. We recommend you consult with your homeowners association (HOA) prior to performing this kind of work. More often the not, there are guidelines in place requiring that only non-mechanized machinery be used in conservation areas, steep slopes, wetlands, and buffers. We encourage you to use a certified arborist.

8. How do I find a certified arborist or tree care professional?

The International Society of Arboriculture maintains a list of certified arborists and tree care professionals. You can search their database by location, postal code, certification number or last name.

9. What is tree topping?

Tree topping is the process of removing large branches from the canopy of a tree. This is frequently done in an effort to make the tree smaller, safer, and more manageable. The opposite is often true, however.

Tree topping is not an accepted pruning practice. Topping is detrimental to the health of the tree. It drastically reduces or removes the tree's ability to feed itself through the process of photosynthesis due to the lack of or reduction of its leaves. The large wounds left on a tree after topping are more susceptible to disease, decay and eventual failure. A topped tree will put all of its energy into regaining its height by sending out numerous small and bushy branches that are weakly attached at the removal site. Topping may then need to be repeated regularly, costing the homeowner more money in the long run.

10. Where can I go for more information?

• International Society of Arboriculture, for tree information or a find a tree professional in your area.
• American Forests, the nation's oldest nonprofit conservation organization.
• Trees Are Good, an informative website full of great information on trees.
• Friends of Trees, a local organization serving the Portland-Vancouver community.
• Ascending the Giants, an interesting website highlighting the ongoing expeditions of two arborists dedicated to measuring champion trees, the largest trees of their species.

11. Are there recommended trees for street planting?

Yes! View the city's Recommended Street Tree Planting List (updated 2022).

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1. When is my bill due?

The last day of the second month shall be known as the billing date. The bill shall be due and payable in full upon receipt.

2. Whom do I contact regarding utility services?

Individuals who have questions regarding service provided by the City of Washougal Utilities are encouraged to contact the Utility Billing Department.

• Utility Billing Hours are: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Mailing Address for business office:
  1701 C Street
  Washougal, WA, 98671
• Customer Service phone number: 360-835-8501, Option 1
• Emergency service phone number: 360-735-9509 (after-hours)

3. What information of mine does Utility Billing keep?

Utility Billing shall maintain account records for each customer that includes the customer's legal name, billing address, account number, service address, current charges and account history including consumption, past due charges, penalties and fees.

4. How are utility rates calculated?

Bills for municipal utility services provided shall be issued bimonthly by Washougal Utilities, and are required to be paid bimonthly in full by the customer. Bimonthly billings shall be mailed on the last business day of the second month of service.

5. When is the meter read?

Typically, meters shall be read between the 12th and 17th day of every other month. Most utility meter readings are obtained every other month through a touch pad read.

6. How do I pay my bill?

Payments can be made:

• Through automatic bank withdrawal
• By mail to:
  City of Washougal
  1701 C Street
  Washougal, WA, 98671
• In person at the Utility Billing Office in City Hall 
• By drop box is located outside the main doors
• By phone at 833-209-4078
• Online

All payments must be received by City of Washougal before close of business on the last day of the month following the bill date. The City of Washougal does not take any payments over the phone.

The City will provide a drop box for utility payments to be made on holidays, weekends and out of office hours.

7. Can I pay ahead?

Yes, you can make a payment on your utility account at any time. If the payment results in a credit on your account, the credit will be used on your next bimonthly bill.

8. When is my payment considered late?

Any customer who is disconnected for non-payment shall not be reconnected until payment of all charges and fees outlined in the Notice of Past Due Balance and Disconnection of Service (Delinquent Bill).

Reconnection will only occur between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m, Monday through Friday, excluding City observed holidays. Payment must be received in the Utility Billing office before 3 p.m. for a same-day reconnection. If payment for reconnection is made after 3 p.m, reconnection will occur on the next business day.

9. What information is required to sign up for utility services?

The residential application shall include:

• The applicant's name
• The number of other adults living at the residence
• Service address
• Mailing address
• Date of birth
• Signature of the party responsible for payment

The commercial application shall include the applicant's name, the number of employees, service address, mailing address, federal identification number, signature of the party responsible for payment.

Two forms of identification are required at the time of application for utility service. One form of identification must include a photo. The second form of identification must prove ownership of the service location. Acceptable forms of identification include, but are not limited to:

• Drivers license
• State issued identification card
• Housing and Urban Development (HUD) statement
• Deed of ownership

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

Any credit in excess of $10 remaining on a customer's utility account after the final bill has been created shall be refunded to the customer in the form of a check issued by the City of Washougal if a forwarding address has been provided.

Any credit amount if no forwarding address has been provided or if it is $10 or less remaining on a customer's utility account after the final bill has been created shall be retained by the city to cover administrative expenses.

11. What if I cannot pay my bill?

Customers who are unable to pay their utility bill by the due date are encouraged to contact the Utility Billing office to arrange a mutually agreed-upon payment plan, with the goal of the payment plan being to bring the customer's account current. Utility Billing staff has the right to reject a proposed payment plan if it is determined not to achieve the goal of bringing a customer's account current.

Customers who are having difficulty paying their City of Washougal Utility bill may receive assistance from the City of Washougal. This assistance may include referrals to organizations, agencies, and programs which provide financial assistance, as well as other services offered by City of Washougal. Information may be disseminated regarding community service agencies, which may have programs designed to assist with payment of utility bills.

12. Can I set up Automatic Payments?

Washougal Utilities offers an automatic bank withdrawal payment option. After enrollment in this program, bimonthly utility payments will be deducted on the 20th of the month following the bill date.

If the 20th falls on a weekend or a holiday, then the deduction shall be taken on the first business day following the holiday or weekend.

13. What is the City's landlord/tenant policy?

• The City of Washougal recognizes the rights and duties of landlords and tenants as outlined in federal law, state statutes, local ordinances, safety and housing codes, common law, contract law and a number of court decisions.
• Notification for the establishment of utility service at a rental service address may only be made by the owner using the Direct Renter Billing Form (DRB).
• Scheduling of a meter reading for a tenant's final bill can be made by either the landlord or the tenant on record.
• The legal owner of the property receiving the service is responsible for all water, sewer and storm water bills.
• The Utility Billing office will not mediate disputes regarding billing issues between a landlord and tenant.

14. What if I have a leak?

• It is not our policy to turn the water off upon discovering that somebody may have a leak. We will call and speak to the customer of record or leave a voice mail or leave a door hanger at the property in question.
• It is the customers responsibility to verify if they have a leak on their property and to get said leak fixed within 30 days of notification to qualify for a leak adjustment.
• Qualifying leak adjustments will have the overage charged because of the leak reduced by 50% for up to 2 billing cycles (4months).
• The overage is worked out using 6 prior consecutive reads. If it is a new build with less than 6 prior reads we will use the flat fee consumption for leak adjustment calculations.
• Low income senior citizens that have already applied and qualified for the low income senior rates will have 100% of the overage caused by the leak waived.

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1. Why do I need Automatic Utility Bill Payment?

More than 50 billion paper checks are processed each year. Each check progresses through a complex and time-consuming maze. Today, money can be safely and accurately transferred electronically through the Automated Clearing House (ACH) system with the Federal Reserve.

2. How does Automatic Utility Bill Payment work?

You complete and submit the enrollment form authorizing the bank to make utility payments for you by electronically debiting your bank account. On the selected date (20th of each month, or first available business day), the electronic payment is made from your accounts.

3. How much will Automatic Utility Bill Payment cost me?

Nothing! The City of Washougal does not charge for this service.

4. If I pay my bill automatically, how will I know how much it is?

Each payment will be clearly identified on your bank account statement from your bank, savings and loan, or credit union. Additionally, each month your City of Washougal utility statement will indicate your current balance and indicate that "your bill will be paid by bank draft."

5. Once I have signed up for Automatic Withdrawal to pay my City of Washougal utility bill, how soon does it begin?

If your completed authorization form is received prior to the 14th of the month, the application will be processed and your bank account information verified. Your first bill will indicate "paid by bank draft," but this is only a pre-note. You must pay this bill by check! Your next and all future bills will automatically be paid by Automated Clearing House (ACH).

6. What if I want to discontinue the Automatic Utility Bill payment process?

Fill out and submit the Cancellation for Automatic Utility Billing Payment Form (PDF) to the City of Washougal either in person at City Hall or by email. Notification of your request to stop this automatic payment must be received no later than the 10th of the month.

7. What if the funds are not in my bank account at the time of withdrawal?

The bank and City will charge you a fee. The City of Washougal's fee for insufficient funds is $40, and you will be removed from automatic withdrawal.