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Choosing a Water Filter

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1. What should I know before buying a home water filter or treatment device?

The first step is to determine what you want the filter or treatment device to do. Do you want it mainly to remove tastes and odors? To remove contaminants, such as lead? Before you buy a filter, you may want to find out if the contaminant is a problem in your home.

Not all filters are the same. Read the packaging carefully and only purchase a filter certified by NSF/ANSI (National Science Foundation/American National Standards Institute). Here are some standards to look for:

• NSF/ANSI Standard 42: Filters with this certification change the aesthetics of the water and reduce non-health-related contaminants. The contaminants reduced will vary by filter.
• NSF/ANSI Standard 53: Filters with this certification reduce contaminants that are harmful to health. The contaminants reduced will vary by filter.
• NSF/ANSI Standard 58: This certification applies to reverse osmosis treatment systems.
• NSF/ANSI Standard 177: This certification applies to showerhead filtration systems, for the reduction of free chlorine.

Don't rely on the NSF/ANSI certification alone; make sure the packaging specifically lists the contaminant you wish to reduce. For example, you may find two filters that are both NSF/ANSI 53-certified, but only one of them may be certified for lead reduction.

2. What types of certified filters are on the market?

There's a variety of filters out there. They include pour-through pitchers and carafes, faucet-mounted filters, countertop and under-sink filters, showerhead filters, and refrigerator filters.

3. What is the difference between a point-of-use filter and a point-of-entry filter?

Point-of-use filters treat water only where and when you need filtration, such as at your kitchen sink or refrigerator. Point-of-use filters are often more economical, but if you wish to treat water at multiple locations in the home, you will need to buy a filter for each location. Point-of-use filters are a good choice when you want to remove contaminants that originate in your home plumbing (such as lead).

Point-of-entry filters treat all water that enters your home. This will include your kitchen sink and refrigerator, of course, but also your toilet water, bathwater, laundry water, and in some cases water at your outside spigots. Point-of-entry filters may be more expensive, and will not address issues in the plumbing that cause problems after the filter (such as lead solder in your household pipes). If you use a point-of-entry filter that removes chlorine, it's important to keep in mind that you are removing the disinfectant in your tap water. This could lead to bacterial growth.

4. Where can I buy a filter?

You can buy filters online and at hardware stores, grocery stores, and other retailers.

5. Do showerhead filters remove chlorine?

The NSF/ANSI Standard 177 is for showerheads that reduce free chlorine. You may have success with vitamin C showerhead filters, but these are not certified.

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Community Development

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1. What is the current and forecasted growth of the City of West Richland?

According to the last census, the population of West Richland in 2010 was 11,811. As of July 1, 2018, the population as estimated by the state Office of Financial Management is 14,928.

The city is expected to grow to 21,866 by 2035, according to the Benton County Comprehensive Plan population projection allocations.

2. Can I buy a map of the city streets?

Yes! Many businesses find it useful to obtain a map of the city. We can print maps from our GIS showing various features such as streets, street names, zoning designations, park, and school locations, etc. To request a map and receive a price quote, call the Community Development Department at 967-5902.

3. What is my zoning?

To find the zoning for your property, please consult the current Zoning Map (PDF). Descriptions of different zoning districts (including allowed uses) are included in Title 17 of the West Richland City Municipal Code found online. If you have further questions, please call a planner at 967-5902.

4. How many chickens am I allowed to raise on my property?

Chickens are considered "small domestic animals" in our zoning code. Other examples of small domestic animals include dogs, cats, rabbits, ducks, geese, pigeons, chickens, or other similar animals over the age of six months. The number of small domestic animals you are allowed to keep depends on your residential zoning district:

• Those living in zones RM-6, R-1MBH, R-2MBH, MR-2, and MR-3 are allowed up to two small domestic animals per dwelling unit.
• Individuals in zones RL-40, RL-22, RM-20, RM-15, RM-12.5, and RM-10 are allowed up to 5 small domestic animals per dwelling unit.

Therefore, depending on your zoning district and the number of pets or other small domestic animals you already have, you may be allowed to be a chicken farmer! Please note that although roosters are not specifically prohibited, there are noise ordinances in the city to consider and you are discouraged from raising roosters. There are also codes related to nuisances (offensive smells, noises, other conditions) and specific penalties for violations of those codes.

5. What are the required setbacks on my property?

To find minimum property setbacks, and other development regulations such as maximum building height, maximum lot coverage, etc. please see section 17.54 in the West Richland City Municipal Code online.

6. Is there a local Chamber of Commerce that I can join?

Yes, indeed! The West Richland Area Chamber of Commerce and the Tri-Cities Regional Chamber of Commerce both serve our community.

7. I own commercial property on Van Giesen Street in West Richland and I would like to improve the exterior façade. Are there resources to help me?

Yes! Through a collaboration between Benton REA and the West Richland Area Chamber of Commerce, the city can assist you in applying for a low-interest loan for façade improvements via a revolving loan fund created for our community. Call Eric Mendenhall, Community Development Manager, at 967-5902 for more details and to obtain an application form.

8. Who is responsible for clearing the sidewalk in front of my home?

West Richland Municipal Code 12.20.020, "Sidewalk snow and ice removal," states, It shall be the duty of all property owners or persons having charge or control of any premises bordered by city right-of-way to clean, maintain, and repair public sidewalks, driveways, or planting strips constructed thereon in a reasonable and safe condition.

9. How do you know if the proper permits have been obtained?

A bright green inspection sign-off card posted on your property indicates permits have been obtained. The City inspector will sign off the required inspections on the card. Prior to construction, look for the green inspection card or ask your contactor why it's not there.

10. How much are permit fees?

Please see the City's Master Fee Schedule (PDF) for this information, or contact the Community Development Department directly for assistance.

11. Do I need a permit to construct a fence?

For fences up to 6 feet in height, there is no permit fee, but City review is required to review location, height, and materials used for proposed fences, up to 6 feet in height before the fence is put up. A site plan showing location and setback from property lines and all structures must be submitted. For your convenience, you may contact the Planning Department to check for an existing site plan to use to draw on the location of your proposed new fence.

For landscape block walls and fences over 6 feet in height, a City building permit is required. 

12. Do I need a permit to put a small shed on my property?

A No-Fee Permit is required for detached storage sheds (including pre-built type) 200 square feet or less in size. A site plan showing location and setback from property lines and all structures must be submitted. For your convenience, you may contact the Planning Department to check for an existing site plan to use to draw on the location of your proposed new fence.

Storage sheds over 200 square feet in size require a building permit.

13. Do I need a permit to put in landscaping walls / retaining walls?

A City building permit is required for retaining walls, landscape block walls, and landscape rockery walls that are 4 feet tall or higher.

14. What about Portable Carport Structures?

West Richland requires a permit for portable or temporary carports. Some carports are canvas or tarp-covered; others have metal roofing that curves down to form the sides of the carport. West Richland requires that you have a permit to place any of these on your property, even if you consider them temporary.

15. What is required to install a swimming pool, spa or hot tub in West Richland?

All swimming pools and swim spas require a City permit. New regulations address alarms on the back door and other doors leading to a pool. Information is available on the City website and in the Planning Department. Small, portable hot tubs and spas do not require a City permit but must have approved safety covers. All pools, spas, and hot tubs require electrical permits from the State Labor and Industries office. Their phone number is 509-735-0100. In addition, if you are locating a pool on a property with an on-site sewerage system (septic) then you will need prior approval from the health department for the location. 

16. What permits are needed for decks and patio covers?

You must have a permit to build a deck that is more than 30 inches above the ground, to construct a roof cover above a deck or patio, or to enclose (with windows and/or walls) any existing patio cover. Recently, enclosures of this type that were constructed without proper permits caused problems when trying to sell the house. Ask about new requirements for attaching a deck to a house. 

17. I heard that since my remodel project is valued at less than $500 I don’t need a permit. Is this true?

A persistent rumor continues that only interior projects valued at more than $500 require a permit. This is not true. All interior remodeling projects require permits, except floor covering changes, painting, and similar finishing work. Also, non-structural interior wall location changes and bearing wall changes require a permit. Please call for information before you begin your project.

18. What licensing and permits are required of contractors?

A solicitor is required to have an individual solicitor's license and a contractor is required to have a contractor's license with Labor and Industries. Both also need a City of West Richland business license. Labor and Industries recommend that you always verify licensing, obtain a 2nd or 3rd quote for services, and have your contractor pick up and sign for the required building permit. 

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COVID-19 - City’s Operational Plan

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1. Is the Earth Day event cancelled?

Yes. We look forward to seeing you at the event in 2022!

2. Will I be charged a late fee for a late utility payment or if I can’t make the payment will my water be shut off?

The short answer is no, but please read the details below for March and April billing.

Late Utility Payments

City of West Richland utility billing staff will prepare late notices for those customers that did not meet the March 25th payment deadline. The $20 past due fee normally associated with the past due notice will be waived for all customers. By sending the notice, it will alert customers the City did not receive payment and give them the opportunity to contact the City office and correct any payments that may have been misapplied.

Low-Income Senior / Disabled Discount

West Richland Municipal Code 1.20.010 states low-income senior citizens and low-income permanently disabled citizens must renew their applications annually by April 15th for continued discount. This deadline is being extended for the year 2020 to July 15th.

Promissory & Payment Plan Options

For the months of March and April, utility customers can enter into a promissory plan or payment plan and admin fees and interest fees will be waived. The City has a limit of 2 promissory agreements per year, if a customer enters into an agreement during the months of March and/or April, these promissory agreements will not count as one of the allowed within the calendar year.

Water Shut-Offs for Non-Payment

No water shut-offs will occur for non-payment for the month of April 2020.

Foreclosure on Property for Utility Debt

The City will not pursue foreclosure of property for unpaid utility debt until after June 30, 2020.

3. Can I temporarily discontinue commercial utility services?

Businesses that are temporarily closed due to COVID-19 can submit a temporary discontinue service application to stop services for Water, Sewer, and Garbage services. Normally, a $15 or $40 dollar fee for both the disconnect and then the reconnect are charged for the service during normal business hours. These disconnect and reconnect fees will be waived for commercial customers temporarily closing their business due to COVID-19. If the customer is requesting an after-hours disconnect, the fee will not be waived under this revision. Forms can be returned by email or dropped off in the night drop box located outside the Municipal Services Facility.

Note: Customers must have water disconnected in order to disconnect sewer and garbage services. If the customer is not supplied by the City water service, a temporary disconnect would not be applicable.

4. Do I need to complete backflow testing for my home or business?

Yes, both residents and businesses should continue to contact backflow assembly testers and companies to complete backflow assembly testing. The State Department of Health's Office of Drinking Water included backflow assembly testers under the List of Essential Functions.

If you are experiencing financial struggle or your business is closed under the Governor's Stay Home Stay Healthy order, please email Brandon Dawkins-the City's Cross Connection Specialist. You may request a 60-day extension to the backflow test due date.

Questions may also be directed to Brandon Dawkins via email. Please remember to include your name or business name, address, and current phone number with each request.

5. When will irrigation water be available?

The City is tentatively scheduled to turn on the City operated irrigation system for the Luanne Estates, Brotherhood, and Flat Top locations Wednesday, April 8, 2020. 

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Cross-Connection Control Program

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1. What is a cross-connection?

It is any connection between your drinking water and an unapproved source of water or any other contaminant. With a cross-connection, your drinking water can become contaminated when a backflow condition occurs.

So, what is backflow? Backflow is when the water in your pipes (the pipes after the water meter) goes backward (the opposite direction from its normal flow). There are two situations that can cause the water to go backward (backflow):

• Backpressure - the pressure in your pipes is greater than the pressure coming in
• Backsiphonage - a negative pressure in one of the pipes.

2. I received a letter from the City notifying me my backflow assembly needs to be tested. Is there a list of certified testers?

For our residents' convenience, the City maintains a list of Certified Backflow Testers (PDF) (updated April 2023).

If you experience problems with any of the testers on the list please notify the City's Cross Connection Specialists at 509-967-5434 or by email.

3. What is considered a potential hazard?

Any possibility of pollutants, contaminants, and system or plumbing hazards is considered a potential hazard. Examples may include:

• Underground sprinklers utilizing potable water
• Water softener
• Swimming pool, etc. 

Putting the garden hose in a swimming pool to fill it; putting a garden hose in a pet's water bucket or fish tank can unwittingly create a cross-connection.

So you may ask …What's the big deal? The big deal is backflows due to cross-connections can cause sickness and death.

4. I want to connect my underground irrigation system to the City potable water in addition to the CID or the KID, what is the proper way to connect to both systems?

To connect to both Columbia Irrigation District (CID), Kennewick Irrigation District (KID), and the City's potable water system you will need to install a Reduced Pressure Backflow Assembly (RPBA). You will need to have your RPBA inspected by the City Cross Connection Specialist and tested by a certified backflow tester once you have installed your assembly. You are also required to have your RPBA tested annually by a certified backflow tester.

Another option: If your irrigation service is interrupted use your garden hoses connected to your home's exterior faucets. This option does not require you to install an RPBA and have the RPBA annually tested.

Please note you can not connect garden hoses from your home's exterior faucets to your underground sprinkler system.

5. I am installing an underground sprinkler system utilizing only City potable water. How do I properly connect my underground sprinkler system to the City's potable water?

First, obtain an Underground Sprinkler Installation Permit from our Cross Connection Specialist.

You will need to properly install a backflow assembly approved by the Department of Health. Below you will find several installation diagrams. Each backflow assembly has specific installation requirements which may not work in all situations. Contact the City's Cross Connection Specialist, 509-967-5434, for assistance.

Additional Resources

• Double Check Valve Assembly (DCVA) Installation (PDF)
• Pressure Vacuum Backflow Assembly (PVBA) Installation (PDF)
• Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB) Installation (PDF)

Once your device has been installed do not backfill. You will need to contact the City's Cross Connection Specialist, 509-967-5434, to have it inspected.

You are required to have your backflow assembly tested annually. The City will send a reminder letter 30 days prior to your annual test due date. Please contact one of the Certified Backflow Testers to have your test completed.

6. I am going to disconnect my underground sprinkler system from the City potable water system. How do I properly disconnect from the City's potable water system?

The following diagram will aid you in disconnecting and removing your backflow assembly from the City potable water system. Do not backfill once you have removed your backflow assembly. Prior to connecting your underground sprinkler system to KID or CID, you will need to contact the City's Cross Connection Specialist once you have completely disconnected from the system, to have the disconnection verified.

• Double Check Valve Assembly (DCVA) Removal (PDF)

7. What happens if I do not have my backflow device tested?

Read through the Civil Penalties For Cross-Connection - P03-11 (PDF) - updated March 2018.

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Finance

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1. When do I need to license my dog?

Dogs 7 months of age and older are required to be licensed within 30 days and annually thereafter.

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Home - FAQs

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1. How do I pay my city water bill?

Answer goes here...

2. How do I get a new trash can lid?

Answer goes here...

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

Answer goes here...

4. My trash didn't get picked up, what should I do now?

Answer goes here...

5. How do I get a garage sale permit?

Answer goes here...

6. How can I see the agenda for an upcoming City Council or Board meeting?

Answer goes here...

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Streets - Snow Removal

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1. Can’t the City remove the snow they put in my driveway and sidewalk?

The City's primary goal and duty is to provide safe and open access to the main roadway system. To be fiscally responsible, and in the interest of public safety, it would not be feasible for the City to provide this service.

2. Why not plow to the center?

Plowing and piling snow into the center of a street creates a safety hazard. The freeze/thaw cycle creates a bigger challenge when the melting snow freezes on the road surface during the evening. Traffic flow is restricted by eliminating a portion of a driving lane, and it creates sight obstructions for low ground clearance vehicles.

3. Can I park my car on the street?

Yes, on designated streets where parking is normally allowed. However, if parked on the street, your car could inadvertently be surrounded with a snowbank following plowing operations. Maneuvering a snowplow in and out between parked vehicles can be very dangerous, and it is not an efficient way to plow snow. If you have the opportunity to avoid parking in the street, it is greatly appreciated and encouraged.

4. Why are residential streets and Cul de Sacs seldom plowed?

With over 168 lane miles of roadway to maintain, it is difficult to plow all of the streets with the City's limited staff and equipment. Most of the First Priority routes contain three to four lanes plus turning lanes. These routes can keep equipment busy 24 hours a day, even after the snow quits falling. The City's goal is to maintain a safe travel route for you and your family. The City will make every effort to get to the lower priority streets when weather and conditions allow.

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Utilities

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1. Where is the City Administration Office?

The City Administration Office is located at 3100 Belmont Boulevard in West Richland.

The building is located on the corner of Keene and Belmont, next to the new Libby Middle School.

2. What if I am late paying my bill?

Past due notices are mailed to property owners and account holders. You will be sent a late notice on or around the 26th of the month reminding you of the payment that was due. A late fee will also be applied to your account.

You will have until the 10th of the month to pay your past due amount and late fee. If the 10th falls on a weekend or holiday, the due date will extend to the end of the next business day.

This notice will be the only one you receive reminding you of your payment that was due and of your requirement to pay by the 10th.

If we do not receive payment by the 10th, your water service will be terminated and a disconnection and reconnection fee will be added to your account. If you would like to have your water service restored, you will need to pay the entire past-due amount plus the disconnection fee and a reconnection fee. The amount of the reconnection fee varies based on the time of day that service is requested to be restored.

Failure to pay your bill can subject you to additional late fees, disconnection and reconnection fees, and/or placement of a lien on the property in accordance with WRMC 13.90.040 through 13.90.130. Unpaid bills may be turned over to a collection agency for further processing.

3. What if I am unable to pay my bill by the due date?

We offer up to two payment deferrals each calendar year.

Deferral requests must be received by the end of the day on the date payment is due.

If you are a tenant, your request must also be signed by the owner of the property. Deferral requests will not be granted if you failed to abide by a previous payment deferral and/or if the application is incomplete.

There is a fee of 10% of the total balance due up to a maximum of $20 to defer a payment. This fee will be added to your balance due.

The deferred balance must be paid in full by the 15th day of the next month after the original due date.

Contact the Utility Billing Department by email or call 509-967-3431 for more information.

Use the application for Deferred Payment (PDF).

We can only enter into a deferred payment arrangement with those who are listed on the account.

4. Can someone who is not on my account make a payment on my account?

Payment can be accepted for an account from someone who is not listed on the account. The City will be unable to discuss any of the account or bill details with that person, however.

5. Who can the city discuss my account with?

The City will only discuss your account with those who are listed on the account and the property owner if you are renting.

To have someone listed on your account, you need to fill out and sign the Application for Utility Service and come in with your ID. Please bring the completed and signed form to the City Administration Office Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 am and noon and 1 pm and 5 pm.

If you would like the person(s) to appear on the utility bill or listed as a person to discuss the account with, they will need to appear in person at the City Administration Offices to have their identity verified.

Only those listed on the account can authorize changes in services, discontinuation of services, deferred payment arrangements, etc.

6. My water service has been shutoff, how do I get it turned back on?

If your water service has been shut off for non-payment, you will need to pay all of your past due balance plus all applicable fees, which are a late fee, a disconnection fee, and a reconnection fee, before service will be restored.

The total amount of fees will either be $75 or $105 depending on when you contact the City. If you contact us and make a successful payment by 3 pm, your fees will be $75. If it is after 3 pm, your total fees will be $105. These fees are in addition to the past due billed charges. Please contact the City by calling Utility Billing at 509-967-3431.

Once the City has confirmation that the past due balance plus all applicable fees have been paid, water will be restored.

If you are unable to contact the City during business hours (up to 5 pm), please call 509-967-3431 and you will be forwarded to the Dispatch Center who will dispatch your water turn on request. Please do not attempt to give your payment to the employee who is turning on your water. Payments for after-hours turn on are due to Utility Billing by 10 am the next business day. If payment is not received by 10 am, your water will be disconnected again and all applicable fees will be charged.

If the water has been off for longer than one week, you or someone residing in the property will need to be there when water is reconnected to ensure the water pressures back up correctly. If it is been off for less than a week, you do not need to be there, however, if when the meter is turned on it is spinning and no one is at home, the water will be turned off again until you can be contacted. A spinning meter can indicate a leak somewhere in the system so as a courtesy to you if there is an indication of a leak we will not leave the water on until you can be contacted. There are no additional disconnection or reconnection fees if a meter is turned back off when a leak may be suspected.

Please note, the City will never call you and threaten you with shutting your water off and demanding immediate payment and/or personal information over the phone. If you receive a call like this, please do not give out any personal information to the caller.

7. What happens if I don’t pay my utility bill?

If you have water service, your service will be disconnected until you make your payment and pay any/all applicable fees.

If service has been disconnected and you do not restore service, your past due balance may be sent to a collection agency for further collection efforts. Additionally, the City may put a utility lien on your property.

For other services, your service may be discontinued or disconnected until you make your payment and pay any/all applicable fees.

Unpaid utility bills may be sent to a collection agency for further collection efforts. Additionally, the City may put a utility lien on your property.

Please note, the City will never call you and threaten you with shutting your water off or discontinuing your service, and demanding immediate payment and/or personal information over the phone. If you receive a call like this, please do not give out any personal information to the caller.

8. How do I pay the same amount each month?

We are pleased to offer our LevelPay Program for our residential customers. This calculates a twelve-month average based on your previous billing and consumption history. This average is a fixed amount that you will be billed for through December 31st of the year. In January, your average will be recalculated to become your new fixed amount for the calendar year. A recalculation could occur anytime, however, if the City deems it necessary.

If during the recalculation process, it is found that in the previous fixed payment you underpaid or overpaid for your actual use during that period, the amount of under or overpayment will become a part of the new fixed amount for the next calendar year. Exceptions apply if the over or underpaid amount is greater than $300.

If you do not have a full twelve months of history available for calculating your fixed amount, we can use the history of a previous occupant; however, an additional 15% will be added to the water portion of the calculation. To be eligible for LevelPay, you must meet the following requirements:

• You must be a residential customer.
• Your account balance must be paid in full prior to enrollment.
• You must have an account history that is free of late payments and/or service terminations in the previous twelve-month period.

If you do not meet any of the eligibility requirements above, you may submit a written request to the City at utilities@westrichland.org, by mail, in person, or in the night drop to have your eligibility reconsidered.

To enroll in LevelPay, please fill out the LevelPay Enrollment Form (PDF).

Applications received prior to the 21st of the month will be effective for the next bill cycle. Those received after the 21st will not be effective until the following bill cycle. For example, a LevelPay Enrollment Application received on 8/21 will be effective for the bills that go out at the end of August. If the application is received on 8/22, LevelPay will be effective for the bills that go out at the end of September.

You can remove yourself from the LevelPay at any time. You may contact the City by email or call 509-967-3431 to make this request. A calculation will be performed to determine how much, if any, you over or underpaid during the period. Any overpayments will be refunded to you. Any underpayments will be added to your account and due with your next utility bill. Exceptions apply if the underpayment is greater than $300.

You must still abide by the payment due dates effective for any utility bill while enrolled in LevelPay. Failure to abide by the due dates can subject you to additional late payment fees and/or disconnection and reconnection fees, if applicable. The City reserves the right to remove you from the program if you have one or more late payments and/or service terminations while you are enrolled in LevelPay.

We can only accept these applications from those who are listed on the account.

9. Are there any discounts available on my utility rates?

The City offers a low-income senior discount and low-income disabled rate for customers who qualify.

Please click on the appropriate link for information on how to apply for these discounts.

• Low Income Senior, Account is in Landlords Name (PDF)
• Low Income Disabled, Account is in Landlords Name (PDF)
• Low Income Senior, Account is in Your Name (PDF)
• Low Income Disabled, Account is in Your Name (PDF)

Your discount will be effective beginning the next billing cycle after your application is approved and will remain in effect for the calendar year. Your eligibility must be re-verified each year by April 15th.

10. What are Cross Connections and BackFlow testing?

Cross connections are any potential for the contamination of the City water supply due to the backflow of contaminated water into the pipes which feed into the house or come from the City's water mains.

A common type of backflow that can occur is from an irrigation system.

In accordance with State law, backflow prevention assemblies are required to be installed on any irrigation systems that are connected to City water. Additionally, those backflow prevention assemblies are required to be tested annually.

The City employs a Cross Connection Specialist that will send a postcard reminder the month before your test is due. You will need to hire a certified tester to complete the test and have the test results sent to the City by the due date.

The City maintains a listing of certified testers if you are unsure of who to use.

It is important to complete the test by the due date. Failure to do so may result in termination of your water service until the test is completed and the results are received by the City.

For more information, please see our Cross Connection Information (PDF), a list of certified backflow testers as well Departments/Public Works/Cross-Connection Control Program. You may also call the City's Cross Connection Specialist, Brandon Dawkins, at 509-967-5434 with any questions you may have.

11. What do I do if my water consumption seems high?

The first thing to do is to perform some self-checks:

• Turn off all your appliances. Shine a flashlight inside your meter. If it is still spinning you may have a leak somewhere.
• Check for leaks in your irrigation system. Manually run your sprinklers to see if all are running properly.
• Have you recently filled a hot tub or a pool?
• Did you have anyone staying with you during the billing period?
• Do you have a dripping faucet? See Water Leaks and Conservation (PDF)
• Look at the meter read dates on your bill. Are there more read days in this month's bill?

If none of the above seems to be the culprit, please call 509-967-3431 to explore your options.

12. Can I have my services turned off while I am away from home?

You can request to have your Water, Sewer, and Garbage service discontinued for a short period of time.

Please fill out and sign the Temporary Discontinue/Restart Application (PDF) and provide it to the Utility Billing Department.

You can send the completed and signed application to the Utility Billing department by mail, by night drop, or in person at the City Administration Office. The Administration Office is open between the hours of 8 am and noon and 1 pm through 5 pm, Monday through Friday.

If you are mailing the request form please do so at least ten days prior so that it will be delivered within two days of your desired disconnection date.

You can specify a reconnection date at the time you are completing the Temporary Disconnect-Request or at another time.

There are fees to temporarily disconnect and reconnect your services. Please review the Applicable Fees section of the Temporary Disconnection Request for a complete listing of the fees and the circumstances in which they apply. All applicable fees must be paid with the application. If you are mailing or delivering your application in the night drop, please include your payment (no cash please) with your request. If you are unsure of the total fee amount, please call 509-967-3431.

We can only honor these requests from those who are listed on the utility account.

Please do not attempt to turn your meter off and on. Meters are City property and tampering with them is subject to criminal and/or civil penalties.

13. Can I have my water temporarily disconnected to make a repair?

Please fill out and sign the Temporary Turn Off For Inspection (PDF) and provide it to the Utility Billing Department within two days of when you need to make your repair. Exceptions may apply if this is an emergency repair.

You can send the completed and signed application to the Utility Billing department by mail, by night drop, or in person at the City Administration Offices. The Administration Offices are open between the hours of 8 am and noon and 1 pm through 5 pm, Monday through Friday.

If you are mailing please do so at least ten days prior so that it will be delivered within two days of your desired disconnection date.

You can specify a reconnection date at the time you are completing the Temporary Disconnect-Request or at another time.

There are fees to temporarily disconnect and reconnect your services. Please review the Applicable Fees section of the Temporary Disconnection Request for a complete listing of the fees and the circumstances in which they apply. All applicable fees must be paid with the application. If you are mailing or delivering your application in the night drop, please include your payment (no cash please) with your request. If you are unsure of the total fee amount, please call 509-967-3431.

We can only honor these requests from those who are listed on the utility account.

Please do not attempt to turn your meter off and on. Meters are City property and tampering with them is subject to criminal and/or civil penalties.

14. What day is my garbage picked up?

Please see Garbage Pickup Map (PDF) (before December 11, 2023) and the new map Garbage Pickup Map - 2023 (PDF)  for a map of garbage service by street. Each delivery day is color-coded. Once you find your street or the vicinity of your street and the color zone that it is in, you will be able to determine which day your garbage will be picked up. If you are having trouble finding your pickup day, please email the Utilities Department.

15. Will my garbage be picked up on a holiday?

Yes, please have your garbage can(s) at the curb by 6 am to ensure it is available when the garbage truck arrives for pickup.

16. Why was my garbage not picked up?

The most common reason your garbage was not picked up is because your can was not available when the garbage truck came by. Please have your can at the curb by 6 am on your scheduled pickup day to ensure it will be picked up.

If you ensure that it is out by 6 am on your next scheduled pickup day and your garbage is still not picked up, please email the Utilities Department.

If your garbage was not picked up on your scheduled pickup day and it cannot wait until your next scheduled pickup day, please contact Basin Disposal at 509-547-2476 to schedule a pickup. There will most likely be a fee for the out-of-schedule pickup.

17. I would like to have another garbage can(s), how do I get one?

Please fill out a Garbage Can Request Form (PDF) and return it to the Utilities Department by email. There is a delivery fee to bring out the additional cans and your monthly service fee will increase by a small amount. Deliveries of additional cans occur on Mondays and Thursdays of each week. You will be advised of the delivery date when you make your request.

If you have not received your additional can(s) by the stated delivery date, please contact the Utility Billing department by email.

18. What do I do if I have not yet received the garbage can I ordered or the can I was told was going to be delivered to me when I set up my service?

You may not have received your can yet for one of the following reasons:

• Your request may not have been received in time to get on the garbage delivery report for the next delivery date. For example, for Monday deliveries, the report has to be provided on the prior Friday. If you made your request late in the day on Friday, the report may have already been sent to the garbage company. Check for delivery on Thursday. If you don't receive your can(s), please email the Utilities Department.
• If an exchange of cans was going to occur, they can be exchanged may not have been out on the street for the garbage company to make the exchange. Please email the Utilities Department. 

19. Where should I put my garbage can(s) on garbage day?

Your can(s) should be placed on the curb (not on the sidewalk) with the lid opening toward the street. Please space garbage cans two feet apart so that the automated garbage trucks can access your cans easily.

20. Does the lid on my garbage can need to shut all the way?

The lid should close all or most of the way. Garbage may blow out or fall out on the street if your garbage can is too full.

21. Can I use my own garbage can?

Only garbage in the City issued garbage cans will be picked up.

22. How do I dispose of paint and other chemicals?

Please do not put these in your garbage can. Please visit the Basin Disposal website and click on the "Have Haz Waste" link.

23. What recycling options are available?

Please visit the Basin Disposal website and click on the "Recycle Learn How Click Here" link. Recycling drop boxes are located as follows within West Richland:

• 40th and Van Giesen St. - behind the gas station

24. What do I need to do to discontinue my service?

You can send your completed and signed Discontinue Form (PDF) request to the Utilities Department by email or by fax to 509-967-5706, mail, night drop, or in person at the City Administration Offices. The Administration Office is open between the hours of 8 am through noon and 1 pm through 5 pm, Monday through Friday.

If you are mailing, please do so at least ten days prior so that it will be received by the City within two days of your desired disconnection date.

A final bill will be sent to the forwarding address you provide on the request. Failure to receive a bill does not relieve you of your obligation to pay your final bill.

A discontinuation fee will be added to your final bill.

Please keep in mind that the City can only honor these requests by those persons who are listed on the utility account.

Please leave your garbage cans for the next occupant.

25. When will my irrigation service be turned on/off?

The specific dates for turn on and off are determined by the district which provides you services. You will need to contact them to get the specific dates.

For the City operated irrigation systems, service should be turned on sometime in April and off sometime in October. The specific date will be announced on the City's website.

The City does not provide sprinkler blowout services.

26. What if I have a sewer backup?

Please call the City as soon as possible at 509-967-3431 or 509-967-5434 to report the backup. The City will dispatch a crew to determine where the blockage occurred. If it is on the City main line, the blockage will be fixed and information on correcting any property damage will be provided.

The City cannot assist in clearing out non-City-owned sewer lines.

27. The owner of the property is deceased, what do I need to do?

Please call the Utility Billing Department at 509-967-3431 to discuss your options. Generally, you will need to provide a death certificate and proof of your authority to take action on this property (e.g. executorship).

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Water Filter - Maintenance & Cost

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1. Do filters require maintenance?

Yes. If your filter cartridge is not replaced according to the manufacturer's guidelines, you run the risk of it no longer performing as designed. For example, a filter designed to remove 99% of lead can only do so for a specific volume of water. Filters that are not maintained or replaced according to the manufacturer's schedule can also harbor bacteria. Many filters have a device that indicates when to change the filter.

2. How much do filters generally cost?

Certified water filters start around $20, with replacement filters being less expensive than the initial device. Filtration pitchers and faucet-mounted filters generally cost less than filters that are plumbed in below a sink. Reverse osmosis systems are more expensive than carbon filtration systems. When choosing a filter, consider filter replacement costs and only purchase a system that you are willing to maintain.

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Water Filtration Alternatives

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1. Are there alternatives to filtration?

The most straightforward alternative is to not filter or treat the water at home since West Richland's water meets or exceeds state and federal standards. If you have lead in your plumbing and haven't used the water for several hours, running your water for 30 seconds to 2 minutes will flush the lead out. Flushing your faucet will also address taste and odor issues if you have older iron pipes.

To remove chlorine taste and odor, try adding lemon slices to a pitcher of water, as the ascorbic acid (vitamin C) will help dechlorinate the water.

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Water Filtration Basics

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1. Do I need to filter my drinking water?

We deliver water that meets or exceeds all state and federal drinking water standards. You don't need to filter the water unless you have a taste preference, health condition, or water quality issue specific to your home (such as lead leaching into the water from your home plumbing).

2. What issues can a home water filter address?

• Lead leaching into the water from household plumbing: While lead is rarely found in our source waters and there are no known lead service lines in West Richland's distribution system, lead is in the plumbing of some homes and businesses. Lead in that plumbing can dissolve into drinking water when the water sits in the pipes for several hours. A lead-certified filter will remove lead.
• Taste and odor preference: You might prefer the taste and smell of filtered water, or you may have old iron pipes in your home that affect the taste of your water, and you'd like to filter out that taste.
• Chlorine sensitivity: If you have chlorine sensitivity, you might prefer to filter your drinking water or install a shower head that removes chlorine.

3. How do water filters work?

Home filtration systems generally use carbon, charcoal, or a blend of filter media to remove contaminants as water flows through the filter. Depending on the type of filter, contaminants either get trapped in the pores of the filter or adhere/absorb to the surface of the filter media. In reverse osmosis (RO) systems, the water is usually treated with a pre-filter, a carbon filter, an RO membrane, and a post-filter.

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West Richland Shoreline Master Program Periodic Review 2020

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1. What is a Shoreline Master Program?

Shoreline Master Programs are both planning and regulatory documents. SMPs carry out the policies of the Shoreline Management Act on local shorelines. An SMP consists of a comprehensive use plan, use regulations, maps, diagrams or other descriptive material, statement of desired goals and standards for shorelines of the state [RCW 90.58.030(3)(b)]. SMPs are based on state laws and rules and tailored to local geographic and environmental conditions and existing development patterns.

2. What is the Shoreline Management Act?

The Shoreline Management Act (SMA), RCW 90.58, provides a statewide framework for managing, accessing, and protecting shorelines. Now more than 40 years old, the SMA reflects the strong interest of the public in our shorelines and waterways for recreation, protection of natural areas, aesthetics, and commerce.

3. Where does the SMA and the City’s SMP apply?

The SMA applies to major water bodies and their adjacent shorelands throughout Washington State. Within the State, there are approximately 28,204 miles of shorelines including:

• All associated wetlands
• Marine waters
• Streams over 20 cubic feet per second mean annual flow
• Upland areas called shorelands that are 200 feet landward of the Ordinary High Water Mark
• Water areas and reservoirs 20 acres and greater

Within the City of West Richland, the SMP applies to land within 200 feet of the Yakima River and any associated wetlands.

4. What is the periodic review of the City’s Shoreline Master Program?

The Shoreline Management Act (SMA) requires a periodic review of comprehensively updated SMPs. Local governments must review amendments to the SMA and Ecology rules that have occurred since the master program was last amended, and determine if local amendments are needed to maintain compliance. Local governments must also review changes to the comprehensive plan and development regulations to determine if the SMP policies and regulations remain consistent with them. Local governments should consider during their periodic review whether to incorporate any amendments needed to reflect changed circumstances, new information, or improved data. The Legislature has established a schedule for every community to complete these reviews.

5. What laws or rules have been changed since the City’s SMP was last amended?

Ecology has prepared a checklist of all laws and rules adopted, organized by year. The checklist is accompanied by a guidance document that explains each item. In 2019, the City reviewed its SMP and identified potential updates that would ensure compliance with newly adopted laws or guidance. Based on this checklist, amendments will be prepared.

6. When was the last time the City’s SMP was adopted?

The last periodic update to the SMP was in 2014. The City is now required to conduct a Periodic Review and adopt any necessary amendments to the SMP by June of 2021.

7. Is the public permitted to provide feedback on the proposed amendments to the City’s SMP?

Yes, in fact, the SMA requires public participation for all amendments. Ecology rules call for a public participation plan that should include broad dissemination of informative materials, proposals and alternatives, opportunities for written comments, public meetings after effective notice, provisions for open discussion, and consideration of and responses to public comments. The plan will ensure the public knows when to comment on the scope of the review and proposed changes, and when the City Council is expected to take formal action. Comments will be accepted throughout the project until the SMP is formally adopted. An open house is scheduled to provide the public with opportunities to speak with City staff in person and have their voices heard as decisions are made regarding amendments to the SMP. The public will also have an opportunity to comment at the public hearing where the City Council will consider proposed amendments to the SMP.