Frequently Asked Questions

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If the Defendant has obtained or been appointed legal counsel, then discovery will be sent to such counsel upon the Prosecutor's Office receiving the Notice of Appearance. Should the Defendant represent themselves, the Defendant can fill out a Discovery Request Form to obtain a copy of discovery, including the police report.

Victims may obtain a copy of the police report by contacting the Oak Harbor Police Department Records Division at 360-279-4608. You may need to fill out a Request for Records Service form.

No. Find Legal Help at the Washington State Bar Association 

No. Many financial institutions and other businesses, however, provide Notary Services for a fee. If you are military, check with base legal.

To find out when a City of Oak Harbor misdemeanor/gross misdemeanor case is scheduled for court, please contact the Oak Harbor Municipal Court at:

(360) 675-5988 -- Court Clerk

Oak Harbor Municipal Court
800 SE 8th Avenue
Oak Harbor, WA 98277

Yes. Failure to appear in court in response to a subpoena may result in a warrant for your arrest. The court may send a law enforcement officer to arrest you if you do not appear. If you have questions regarding a subpoena you have received, please feel free to contact the Prosecutor's Office at 360-279-4543.

Call the Oak Harbor Municipal Court at 360-675-5988.

You may speak with the prosecutor about your case as long as you are not represented by an attorney. The prosecutor is present at the arraignment and pretrial hearing, and might be able to speak to you briefly about your case at that time. You may also schedule an appointment to speak with the prosecutor in detail about your case by calling 360-279-4543. If you are unable to come to a resolution with the prosecutor, you can then proceed to either a trial by jury or a bench trial at a subsequent hearing.

800 SE 8th Avenue
Oak Harbor, WA 98277
Phone (Clerk): 360-675-5988
Phone (Probation): 360-675-0777
Fax: 360-675-8231

Yes and no. Recreational fires are allowed; but land-clearing fires are not allowed (includes burning of yard debris). For yard debris pick up, please contact City of Oak Harbor Public Works or see this list of alternatives to burning yard debris by the Northwest Clean Air Agency.

Within the city limits of Oak Harbor, and it's Urban Growth Areas (UGAs) recreational fires three feet in diameter or smaller are allowed and do not require a permit if all the following conditions are met:

• Recreational fires consist only of charcoal or firewood and are used for cooking or pleasure
• The fire is in an enclosure no larger than 3 feet across. The enclosure must be a minimum of 16 inches high and made of cement block, stones or Number 10 gauge steel
• Materials being burned must be kept lower than the sidewalls of the enclosure
• A charged garden hose or 2, five-gallon buckets of water must be on site
• A shovel or rake must be on site
• The fire must be 25 feet from any standing timber
• Tree branches must be cleared to the height of 15 feet above the enclosure
• One person age 16 or older who is capable of putting the fire out must be in attendance at all times
• The fire must be contained within a firebreak (bare ground)
• The landowner's permission must be obtained if not on your property
• The smoke from your fire must not negatively affect your neighbors. If the fire department is called, you will be asked to put your fire out
• Prior to burning, check Island County's Burn Ban status by calling the Northwest Clean Air Agencies Fire hotline: 360-428-1617, ext. 4 or visit the Northwest Clean Air Agency website

There is a permanent burn ban within the City of Oak Harbor and its urban growth areas (UGAs). This means that residential burning of yard, garden and land clearing debris is illegal.

Note: Small recreational fires, burning firewood, in approved fire pits, are allowed as long as they do not negatively impact neighboring properties.

If you suspect that someone is burning illegally, you can call the non-emergency dispatch number: 360-679-9567. Contact 911 immediately if there is excessive smoke or you suspect the fire may be out of control.

Washington State law permanently banned land-clearing and residential burning within the City of Oak Harbor and its Urban Growth Areas (UGAs) (PDF) as of January 1, 2001.

Some residential burning is allowed in Island County:

• Burn Ban Information: 360-428-1617, ext. 4 or 360-679-7350
• Recreational, Residential and Land-Clearing Information: 360-679-7350
• For local outdoor burning regulations and information view the Northwest Clean Air Agency website: http://www.nwcleanairwa.gov

Did you know:

• Burning garbage/trash has been illegal in Washington since 1967
• You may be charged a fee if the fire department is called out to your fire due to illegal burning
• Where burning is allowed, written permits are required for all fires over 4 feet in diameter. Verbal permits are required for fires less than 4 feet in diameter. Call 360-679-7350 for a verbal permit
• The Fire Warden must inspect all land-clearing burn piles prior to burning (permit required)
• The Washington State Department on Ecology has published a very informative website (including a list of frequently asked questions about outdoor burning)

The first step is to submit the appropriate complete application form to the Development Services Department along with the applicable fees and the required number of copies for all submittal items. Applications can be obtained online at (Development Applications) or from the Permit Center located in the Development Services Department.

The Development Services Department conducts two application checks to ensure that applications are complete before staff begins the development review process. Prior to accepting an application, staff will conduct a "Counter Complete" review of the submittal package. This initial Counter Complete review ensures that all required submittal items are contained within the package. If each item on the submittal requirement list has been submitted, the application will be accepted for further review.

Prior to processing the application, the Development Services Department shall determine that the application is "Technically Complete". A Technically Complete application must contain all information required by the applicable development regulations as they apply to the proposed land use action.

Within twenty-eight calendar days after receiving a project permit application, the City will mail or personally provide a determination to the applicant which states either that the application is complete or that the application is incomplete and what is necessary to make the application complete.

To see this section of code, click the link below:

OHMC 18.20.330

The length of time needed for review will depend on the type of permit and the completeness of the application; generally, the initial staff review of the project will take an average of two weeks, depending on staff workload. However, a final decision regarding the project permit application will be made within 120 days after the applicant has been notified that the application is complete, except as otherwise provided in subsection two of 18.20.410 of the Oak Harbor Municipal Code (OHMC) (see note).

Note: Any time period during which the applicant has been requested to correct plans, perform required studies, or provide additional required information is not included in the 120 day period.

To see this section of code, visit OHMC 18.20.410

Projects requiring public hearings take considerably more time than administrative decisions. Staff may assist you in outlining the process and timeline required for permits that require a public hearing.

No, a pre-application review is not required; however, the pre-application is strongly recommended for all applicants as a low-cost way of identifying key issues prior to full site plan development.

Public notice is required for projects that are a Type II review process and above. The type of public notice varies by the review process type but it may be accomplished by posting the property with twenty-four-inch by thirty-six-inch signs, mailing notices to contiguous property owners and/or property owners within 300 feet, and publishing the notice in the local newspaper.

To see this section of code, click the link below:

OHMC 18.20.370

Two major types of permits are issued by Development Services - land use and construction. Projects often require both land use and construction permits, and they may be applied for separately or together.

Land use permits assure that structures conform to the current zoning code and comply with environmental regulations, such as the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) and Oak Harbor's Shoreline Master Program.

Construction-related permits provide reviews of the structural and fire/life safety elements of a project, based on national, regional, and local building codes.

You can do research on your property by visiting the Development Services Department or by viewing our citywide zoning map.

The Development Services Department is located on the lower floor of Oak Harbor City Hall, 865 SE Barrington Drive. Our hours are 8 am to 4:30 pm.

Not at this time. All OHFD first responders are paid employees of the City of Oak Harbor. If you are seeking volunteer opportunities, we encourage you to reach out to the Island County Fire Districts and Island County Department of Emergency Management. 

Yes. You must be 18 years of age and bring valid photo identification. Call for visiting hours.

For questions regarding collision records, requesting a copy of a collision report, or using the WSP Requests for Electronic Collision Records (WRECR) system, please visit the WRECR or contact us:
Phone: 360-570-2355
Email Collision Records

For questions regarding background checks, fingerprinting services, letters of clearance, expungements, criminal history information, and WATCH (Washington Access to Criminal History), please visit Washington State Patrol or contact us:
Phone: 360-534-2000
Email WATCH

Yes. Our fingerprinting hours are Thursdays from 10 am until 2 pm. Fingerprint service is conducted in our jail; knives and weapons are not permitted and no one under the age of 18 can accompany you. The fee for fingerprinting is $15 for one card ($20 for non-city of Oak Harbor residents), $5 each additional card. Valid photo identification is required. Fees are payable in cash, check, or money order. We do not accept debit or credit cards. By appointment only, call 360-279-4608 to schedule.

Yes. The purchasing division is responsible for the disposition of surplus vehicles and other equipment owned by the City of Oak Harbor. These items are sold at a City auction conducted once a year generally in the Spring. The auction is a combined auction with the Oak Harbor School District, Island County and various other agencies as feasible. Please check the Surplus Sales page for the most current information.

Police reports may be requested by contacting the Records Division at 860 SE. Barrington Drive, Oak Harbor, 360-279-4608, Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. You can also complete the Records Request Form online. Arrested persons under the age of 18 will need to contact Juvenile Court Services in Coupeville at 360-679-7325 to obtain a copy of the report.

Traffic accident reports may be requested through Washington State Patrol.

Contact the Island County Superior Court located at 101 NE 6th Street in Coupeville (Phone: 360-679-7361). Court hours are Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 am to 4:30 pm.

Contact the Island County District Court located at 800 SE 8th Avenue in Oak Harbor (Phone: 360-675-5988). Court hours are Monday through Friday 8 am to 4:30 pm. If minor children are involved, contact Superior Court.

Persons interested in receiving notification of the next testing process for Lateral (Non-Entry-Level) Police Officer or Corrections Officer may leave their name with the Oak Harbor Police Department receptionist at 360-279-4600 or may notify us by U.S. Mail or email. For Entry-Level Police Officers and Corrections Officer, initial testing is conducted through PublicSafetyTesting.com. You may review all department job descriptions by looking at our Employment page.

The Island County Sheriff's Office monitors and keeps a listing of Registered Sex Offenders in Island County. You can check the Island County Offender Watch website.

Call I-COM Dispatch at 360-679-9567.

If you witness what you suspect may be illegal drug activity or any other suspected illegal activity, you can report it to us using our Anonymous Illegal Drug Activity Tip Page or call our anonymous Tip Hotline at 360-679-TIPS (360-679-8477).

Please complete the Police Services Survey to submit feedback concerning how the Oak Harbor Police Department can better serve the community.

Contact the Island County District Court located at 800 SE 8th Avenue in Oak Harbor (Phone: 360-675-5988). Court hours are Monday through Friday 8 am to 4:30 pm.

Found property is retained for 60 days. When you turn in found property, you will need to fill out an Intent to Claim form. After 60 days, if the property is not claimed, you may contact the Police Department to claim the property. You will need to pay the City $10 (per RCW 63.21.030). After 90 days, you forfeit all rights to claim the property.

Fees are based on the Oak Harbor Municipal Code Fee Schedule 3.64.100:

• Accident Reports: $10
• Background Checks: $25
• Clearance Letter: $25
• Photos on CD: Contact the department
• DVDs: Contact the department
• Incident Reports: Contact the department

Fees are payable in cash, check, or money order. We do not accept debit or credit cards.

If the amount of the check is $50 or more, drawn on a bank with a local branch, you can file a criminal complaint. Before a check can be accepted for investigation, you must attempt to notify the writer of the check by certified mail. For complete instructions, a Worthless Check Policies and Procedures packet is available at the Police Department.

860 SE Barrington Drive
Oak Harbor, WA 98277
We are located directly across the street from Oak Harbor City Hall.

Our fax number is 360-279-4609.

For non-emergencies, dial 360-679-9567, which is I-COM, the County dispatch center. This number is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Non-emergencies include abandoned cars, non-injury accidents, noise complaints, vandalism and crimes not in progress. For more information on non-emergency calls, check out our Who Do You Call? page.

911 is for emergencies only. An emergency is a life-threatening situation, a crime in progress, or a crime that just occurred. If you are not sure what you are reporting is an emergency, dial 911. For more information on non-emergency calls, check out our Who Do You Call? page.

Washington State Patrol in Bellingham (Phone: 360-676-2077)

Mount Vernon Fire Department (Phone: 360-336-6277)

For other certified locations, search the SeatCheck website.

Call I-COM Dispatch at 360-679-9567 while the noise is occurring. An officer must hear the violation in person in order to issue a warning or infraction. If you wish speak to the officer who responds, please notify the Dispatcher and provide a phone number where you can be reached.

Contact our Property and Evidence Officer at 360-279-4626, Monday through Thursday, 7 am until 5 pm.

Completed online application along with required materials listed in the job announcement are required for each job opening. Incomplete or inaccurate information or missing materials may disqualify you.

Yes. Reference and background checks are part of the process and are usually conducted prior to hire. A contingent offer of employment may be made that is subject to a satisfactory background check before beginning work for the City of Oak Harbor.

The City of Oak Harbor jobs are posted on the City's job module and also on the Government Jobs website where candidates are able to create a free, secure applicant account, apply for jobs online and view the screening status of their applications.

You can check the screening status in your applicant portal. Those selected to interview will be notified of the date, time, and location of the interview and if any testing will take place. Those not selected to interview can see their status in their applicant portal and/or may be notified by email. We suggest you check your spam email as sometimes our emails go to spam. 

Once a job posting has closed, the job announcement will be removed from the website but you will be able to log in to view your status through your applicant portal. We will contact applicants as we proceed through the process. If you have not received a phone call, e-mail, or letter, then the process is still in the review stage. Due to the large volume of applications the City receives, the review process may take longer than usual. Every effort is made to notify applicants selected for an interview as early as possible. 

Human Resources, department designee and/or panel will review all applications for the position after the closing date. Each application is considered. 

The City of Oak Harbor only accepts online applications and required materials for advertised open positions posted on the Government Jobs website. We do not accept unsolicited resumes. It is important that you review each job announcement carefully to see that you meet the minimum qualifications before completing the online application. 

Fire and Police employment opportunities are advertised on the Government Jobs website and various online job sites. Testing is required for entry-level police and fire, please visit the National Testing Network website for fire and Public Safety Testing website for police for details. This website is updated regularly for current job openings. Lateral police officers can contact our Civil Service Secretary to be put on a interest list if there is not a current opening.

Employment opportunities are advertised on the Government Jobs website. Our job module is updated regularly for current job openings. 

Oak Harbor Fire Department offers free, public CPR | AED | FIRST AID training classes at least once per month. See available dates and register for an upcoming CPR | AED | FIRST AID Training Class through the City of Oak Harbor Activity Catalog.

A Basic Life Support CPR for Healthcare Providers class is offered once per quarter and is also free of charge. When available, the class will be posted at the registration link above.

A CPR certification card, issued by Oak Harbor Fire Department, is provided for each student (free of charge). If you would like (or are required to have) a nationally recognized CPR certification card issued by ASHI, you may purchase the card during registration for $16. Our instructors are certified through the American Safety and Health Institute (ASHI). 

Learn more about the CPR classes offered through the City of Oak Harbor Fire Department. 

Oak Harbor Fire Department's (OHFD) certified CPR trainers offer at least one CPR/First Aid/AED class each month.

Learn more about the classes we offer on our Learn CPR page.

• CPR / First Aid / AED Classes (5.5 hours)
• Basic Life Support CPR Only Course (intended for, but not limited to, health care providers)

OHFD CPR instructors are certified by the American Health and Safety Institute (ASHI). 

Other local agencies offering CPR/First Aid Courses:

• North Whidbey Fire and Rescue in Oak Harbor, WA: 360-675-1131
• Central Whidbey Fire and Rescue in Coupeville, WA: 360-678-3602
• LifeTek, Inc., in Mount Vernon (and many locations throughout Washington): 360-416-8239

Yes! Stop by Station 81 during our business hours, 8 am to 4 pm, Monday through Friday and one of our firefighters will be happy to check your blood pressure. Station 81 is located at 855 E Whidbey Avenue, Oak Harbor, WA.

Yes, we like visitors!

To schedule a tour of station 81 for your family, daycare, organization or school class call us at 360-279-4700 or submit request online.

Station 81 has a 1,200 square foot classroom that is maintained for training purposes. It is used daily for training classes and shift briefings. It is also the site of the Oak Harbor Firefighter Recruit Academy, used by other City of Oak Harbor departments, and by partnering agencies. At this time the Oak Harbor Fire Department does not offer the use of the classroom to outside organizations.

To find the nearest car seat installation/inspection site, visit www.SeatCheck.org and enter your zip code.

Information is also available at https://cert.safekids.org/get-car-seat-checked

Call 911 any time there is immediate danger to a person or property or any crime in progress.

In Oak Harbor and Island County, all 911 calls go to a central dispatch center (ICOM) which will determine the agency and apparatus to dispatch to the incident. 911 calls can be placed from all phone types: landlines, mobile, and VOIP phones.

In a non-emergency situation, you may contact ICOM 24-hours/day at 360-679-9567.

The City of Oak Harbor has a Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan (CEMP) developed by the Director of Emergency Management and approved by City Council. View the CEMP (PDF) online.

The short answer is "No, and please do not use them."

Oak Harbor Fire Department prefers to teach a proactive, quick response to fires and believe the use of "Tot Finder" decals could provide a false sense of security for your family. Through various public education programs, we begin educating children at a very young age about the basics of a home escape plan. Children are taught the importance of responding quickly to a smoke alarm, knowing two ways out of each room, crawling low in smoke and having a meeting place outside their home. Children may feel that by having this decal on their window, it will be okay to stay and wait for the fire department and this is not the message we want to teach them. Children need to learn the importance of getting out of the house as quickly as possible and get to the family's meeting place so they can be counted as safe.

There are other reasons why the use of these stickers is not recommended. One being that when children grow up and move away from home, or change bedrooms in the house, the decal remains in the window. Perhaps the room has been converted to an office or den and is no longer a bedroom at all. This places firefighters at undue risk by directing them to search for a child when in fact there are no children in that room or living at home.

Another reason why the decals are not recommended is because it provides a vulnerable spot for your home. The decals could act as a signal to unwanted individuals directing them to the location of your children.

Finally, it is important to understand that when a fire department responds for a fire, they are trained to perform a systematic search of the entire house. If firefighters were to first look for windows containing a "Tot Finder" decal, and search only those rooms, precious time would be wasted.

If you have decals in your home, we recommend removing them. Then get your family together and take the time to develop a fire escape plan indicating two ways out of each room and a meeting place outside. Be sure you have at least one smoke detector on each level of your home and remember to test them every month. Once you have a plan developed, you need to practice it to be sure everyone knows what to do. You can make it more interesting by blocking an exit with a sign stating that a particular exit is blocked by smoke or fire so family members will have to use their second way out.

The Fire Department is unable to dispose of unexploded fireworks or expired flares.

Fireworks may be safely disposed of after they have been completely submerged in water for 24 hours. For more information on disposing of hazardous materials (including expired flares), contact Island County Public Work Solid Waste Complex at 360-679-7338.

No, the Fire Department does not inspect fire extinguishers.

Please refer to "Fire Extinguishers" in the Yellow Pages for businesses that specialize in fire extinguisher inspection, repair, and sales.

Note: at this time there are many companies that service the Oak Harbor area from areas off the island, but none are located in Oak Harbor. Look in the areas of Bellingham, Mount Vernon, Burlington, Marysville, Everett, Greater Seattle, etc.

Yes! If your family child daycare will be located within the Oak Harbor City limits and you will be caring for 12 or fewer children (including all children that reside in your home), call our Fire Marshal at 360-279-4702 to schedule an appointment. Congratulations on your new venture!

Learn Local Fireworks Regulations (PDF). Use is limited by DATE, TIME, and TYPE of fireworks by Washington State Law (RCW 70.77). More info below...

We recommend you forgo the use of personal fireworks and attend the public fireworks display over Oak Harbor. 

PUBLIC FIREWORKS DISPLAYS; viewing from Windjammer Park is spectacular.

• Independence Day | 4th of July
  • Dusk (around 10pm) 
• New Years Eve | December 31
  • 9pm 

CONSUMER FIREWORKS

DATES & TIMES - Legal fireworks are ONLY legal and allowed during days around New Years Eve and Independence Day - see RCW 70.77.395

• New Year's Eve:
  • December 31, 6pm to January 1, 1am
• Independence Day:
  • June 28, Noon - 11pm
  • June 29 - July 3: 9am - 11pm
  • July 4: 9am - 12:00am midnight
  • July 5: 9am - 11pm -.

TYPES - Consumer Fireworks are legal to use on private property. These include the "safe & sane" fireworks sold at the various fundraising fireworks stands in Oak Harbor and many (but not all) of the fireworks sold on the nearby reservations. Many of the fireworks sold on the reservations may only be legally used on the reservation. - See RCW 70.77.136

• Examples of safe and sane fireworks are detailed in our Fireworks Regulations Publication -- while these fireworks are legal, they are still very dangerous and can cause serious injury and/or death is handled improperly. 

Fireworks may be used on private property only, with permission of the property owner. The City of Oak Harbor does not provide a designated area for fireworks use.

Persons lighting fireworks on public land (schools, beaches, parks, etc.) or on private land without the owner's permission (empty lots, parking lots, beaches) risk having their fireworks confiscated and being fined for reckless endangerment.

The Oak Harbor Fire Department strongly encourages everyone to install and maintain working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in their home, however, we do not recommend one brand of detector over another. Very useful information about selecting, installing and maintaining smoke detectors can be found at the U.S. Fire Administration and National Fire Protection Association websites; including information about which detectors have been recalled.

It is imperative to understand the need not to rely solely on smoke alarms as the entire answer to escaping from fire. Home escape planning is required for each family and smoke alarms are a tool in the planning process. Parents need to clearly understand their supporting roles in the escape plan. After going over the plan with your family, you should conduct a walkthrough of the plan. When you feel comfortable with your plan, hold a fire drill at night (activate your alarm) while your children are sleeping so that you and they can determine the appropriate response to a smoke alarm.

Smoke alarms and automatic sprinklers do save lives but they are just tools in the home escape process. Families need to remember that while technology is an integral part of the process, the maintenance of that technology (e.g. regular testing, replacing batteries, etc.) and incorporating planning and participation in their use will be the key to saving lives.

Emergency service agencies in Island County participate in a program that provides stuffed animals to children involved in traumatic, emotional or transitional situations. All Oak Harbor Fire Department (OHFD) apparatus carry new stuffed animals designated for this purpose in hopes that it will ease a child's anxiety or just to give them something to focus on and hold on to until the situation is passed.

OHFD is currently taking donations of new stuffed toys only (we cannot take used items at this time). If you'd like to donate please call us at 360-279-4700.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has produced a helpful guide to help homeowners who have experienced a house fire: After the Fire! Returning to Normal (PDF). View it online or pick up a copy at Station 81.

In the brochure, a simple cleaning solution is recommended for clothing (test garments before using treatment), walls, floors, and furniture - for removing smoke and mildew, combine the following:

• 4 to 6 tablespoons Tri-Sodium Phosphate (look for it labeled TSP in the cleaning or paint supply section)
• 1 cup household cleaner or chlorine bleach
• 1 gallon warm water

Drug Disposal

Disposing of over-the-counter and prescription medication properly will help ensure that it doesn't harm a person, animal, or the environment. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) also maintains a Controlled Substance Disposal Search Utility to help you find an authorized take-back location or you can search Google Maps for "drug disposal near me" to find your nearest drug disposal site.

Prepare your medication for disposal by removing all pills from original packaging and placing them into a zip-seal bag. Learn more about how to dispose of unused medications from the Federal Drug Administration.

Store prescription drugs in a safe and secure manner until disposing.

Hypodermic Needles (Sharps) Disposal

Place used needles into preferably a PETE plastic (2-liter soda bottle) or red manufactured "Sharps" container (available at pharmacies). When full, screw the lid down tightly and tape it shut.

Dispose of container 9:30 am to 5 pm daily (closed holidays) at: Solid Waste Complex, 20018 SR 20, Coupeville, WA

Mercury Thermometers

Secure to prevent breakage. Deliver to any County Solid Waste facility.

For More Information

For more information contact:

• Island County Solid Waste
• Phone: 360-679-7386
• Phone: 360-321-5111, ext. 7386
• Phone: 360-629-4522, ext. 7386

Yes. You need to arrange a plan with your supervisor for submitting weekly timesheets to reflect your choices about the use of accruals and\or unpaid leave.

No. You must have worked for the City of Oak Harbor a total of 12 months (need not be consecutive) and at least 1,250 hours in the previous 12 consecutive months.

Yes, in most cases. If required, Human Resources will provide you with the proper forms to give to your Health Care Provider for medical certification. Failure to provide the certification to HR by the deadline noted in the form may result in your leave being denied.

We will let you know when recertifications are required.  For lengthy, intermittent leave due to your own serious health condition, we may also ask your doctor to review your attendance record periodically and verify your attendance is consistent with the medical needs of your condition.

Complete an FMLA Leave Request (PDF) and forward to the HR department.  Also, be sure to inform your supervisor about your need for leave.

All health and welfare benefits continue during FMLA leave under the same conditions as if you continued to work.  If you normally have a payroll deduction for voluntary benefits (voluntary life, personal accident insurance, etc.), these payments will be deducted from your paychecks while on leave. If your paycheck does not cover these self-pay premiums, Finance will send you a bill. If self-pay premium payments are not made in a timely fashion, those benefits may be canceled. If you decide to discontinue these benefit enhancements, you must notify the HR department in writing. 

Leave for a workers’ compensation injury or illness runs concurrently with FMLA, if the reason for the absence is due to a qualifying FMLA serious health condition. The first three days following an on-the-job injury or illness is a waiting period for which you may use leave accruals. Time loss payments start after the waiting period and do not quite provide the same income as regular pay. Work with your department and the HR department if you wish to supplement time loss payments with accruals. If you qualify for holidays, and a holiday falls during the time you are off work on time loss payments, you will receive holiday pay.

Yes. You cannot waive your federal protection for leaves that qualify as FMLA.

Usually not, however, for any month you are not paid the minimum number of hours required to earn service credits for your retirement plan, you lose retirement service credit for that month. Contact the Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) directly at 800-547-6657 and visit the Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) website for information about how to recover lost service credit.

If you have accrued sick leave, you will be required to use your available paid sick leave during your FMLA absence, you have the option of using available vacation leave in lieu of your sick leave (Police Department staff: sick leave usage is not required per CBA).

If you do not have any accrued leave, you can take unpaid time. You will continue to accrue sick and vacation leave if you meet the minimum compensated hours per month.

Free, professional and confidential counseling is available through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) via ComPsych by calling 800-570-9315. ComPsych guidance counselors are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to arrange an appointment with a qualified counselor in your area.

Online resources are also available on the ComPsych GuidanceResources website.

EAP is available to you and your immediate family, including your dependent children and anyone living in your household.

The EAP can help you with:

• Stress/anxiety
• Parenting
• Abuse
• Aging
• Drugs/Alcohol
• Grief
• Marriage
• Workplace issues
• Eldercare
• Depression
• Relationships
• Critical incident debriefing
• Legal services - wills, estate planning, divorce, civil criminal disputes
• Financial services - bankruptcy, credit issues, tenants right
• And more call 800-570-9315

Phone: 800-570-9315
ComPsych GuidanceResources website

FMLA is a federal law that allows employees to balance their work and family life by taking reasonable paid or unpaid leave for certain family and medical reasons. Eligible employees may take up to 12 workweeks of leave in a 12-month period.

• When you're unable to work due to your own serious health condition; or
• To care for a spouse, son, daughter, or parent with a serious health condition; or
• For the birth of a child or placement of a child through adoption or foster care; or
• For certain events related to a family member's military service.

You must report to your supervisor periodically so he or she can make arrangements to cover your work during your leave. Also, inform your HR Representative as they will handle the healthcare information and recertification to preserve medical privacy to the extent possible and will assure your leave is coordinated consistent with City policy and federal law.

To address housing affordability, the City of Oak Harbor applied for and received an $80,000 grant from the Department of Commerce (under E2SHB 1923) to develop a Housing Action Plan. The goal of the Housing Action Plan is to develop clear, actionable strategies that meet the current and projected housing needs of the City of Oak Harbor. State law requires the Housing Action Plan identify strategies to encourage construction of additional affordable and market-rate housing, allowing for a greater variety of housing types, and at prices that are accessible to a greater variety of incomes.

Housing affordability is a high priority not only for residents but for the City as well, including elected officials. While there have been discussions about housing policies at both the local and county-levels, a comprehensive local strategy with policies, regulations, and codes is needed. The Housing Action Plan will maximize existing policies, create strategies to fill needed gaps, and present a unified housing vision for the city, today and beyond.

A Housing Action Plan should be an interactive effort engaging a variety of local business and community stakeholders who have a vested interest and value housing needs and desires. By developing a Housing Action Plan, this will enable the City to develop effective and achievable policy recommendations, based on a thorough housing needs assessment, that both city leadership and residents will support.

Resulting Housing Action Plan strategies will be used to further inform and develop the Housing Element of the Comprehensive Plan, which is required by State law to be revised in 2025.

All of our position descriptions and salary ranges are included on our website through the employment section when viewing class specifications for each position.

View the GovernmentJob website to access our Class Specs. 

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Disability payments
• Mental health therapy or counseling
• Death benefits

In cases where bodily injury or death results from the commission of a crime against an innocent person.

No, but the Judge may order restitution for stolen or damaged property as part of the sentence, if a restitution affidavit is filled out.

Wheels can be removed at any time by us if need be. Adding wheels depends on the size. 1, 2, and 3-yard dumpsters can have wheels if the situation calls for it. 4 and 6 cannot have wheels due to the weight of the garbage that will crush them or damage the dumpster. Wheels may have been removed due to the angle of pick up or fear of it rolling into an obstruction.

Since changing to a front-load garbage truck we have increased the size requirements for the dumpster enclosures.  Due to the size of the forks on the truck, we require a 12-foot wide and 10-foot deep enclosure.  The fork on the truck is 8 feet wide so it gives us a 2-foot cushion on each side to adjust to the area.  Sometimes garbage will be stacked on the side or a vehicle will park too close, so it gives us some room to work with.  We are not requiring old enclosures to be updated at this time but if work is being done to the enclosure we will advise it.  Make sure to call the Solid Waste Department at 360-279-4766 before you build to verify the location and any questions you might have. View the Solid Waste Container Pad Detail (PDF) for full Oak Harbor Solid Waste container pad details.

Business owners and Complex owners/managers can call 360-279-4530 to request a day change, an increase, or a reduction in service.

Call City of Oak Harbor Utilities at 360-279-4530 for prices and a size change request.

View the Dumpster and Rollcart Charges (PDF).

Our dumpsters come in 1,2,3,4, and 6 yards. If you need a visual aid, look at the galleries page.

Oak Harbor Utilities department at 360-279-4530. They will answer questions or direct you accordingly.

If you have the locking bar on the front of your dumpster you can lock it. You don't have to unlock it before pickup; the mechanisms have a counterbalance that unlocks automatically when the dumpster is inverted. Use locks that are short shaft. It doesn't have to be fancy but make sure that it will survive being banged around and the weather. If you have any questions call the Solid Waste Division at 360-279-4766.

Yes, you may come into the Utilities Department at City Hall to fill out the required application. 17% savings on water, sewer, and garbage (on a 20-gallon size can).

Large items like furniture and mattresses can be self-hauled to the Island county dump (view Google Maps for directions) or call 360-279-4766 for a quote for Oak Harbor solid waste to pick up the items.

By coming into City Hall and signing up for services. An application card needs to be completed and a $25 administration fee paid. View the Dumpster and Rollcart Charges (PDF).

For small-scale recycling, we offer a rollcart in two sizes 95 and 65 gallons free per dumpster and $8 for an additional rollcart. View the Commercial Recycling Request Form (PDF) for details. For a larger cardboard dumpster call Island Disposal at 360-678-5701, Tricounty Recycling, Inc at 360-707-0439, or Skagit River Steel and Recycling at 800-869-7097.

Depending on the situation if you're dumpster hasn't been dumped by 1:30 pm on your garbage day call 360-279-4530. There might be a problem with the truck or the driver. There are 6 drivers in the department and they all have their own pace. Please be patient.

Call Utilities at 360-279-4530 to set up a cleaning. It costs $45 for most cases.

Call 360-279-4766 for repairs. It will be evaluated by wear and tear or neglect.

On dumpsters, we will pick up on all holidays except Thanksgiving and Christmas if they fall on a weekday. View our normal holiday schedule (PDF).

We accept cash, check, debit cards, credit cards (Visa and Mastercard), and "direct debit" payments. You can sign up for the "direct debit" payment option by filling out the enrollment form in the Utilities Department. Credit Card payments can be made in person or through the City of Oak Harbor website.

Visit the Island County Solid Waste website for information on drop-off sites.

Most of the City's auto parts stores will recycle used oil or you can visit the Island County Solid Waste website for additional drop-off sites.

The payment can be placed in the "drop box" outside City Hall, pay in person in the utility office, or mailed. Credit card payments(VISA or Mastercard) can be made over the telephone by calling 360-279-4530 or through the City of Oak Harbor website. A direct debit pay service is available. To sign up for direct debit -fill out the form in the Utilities department and attach a canceled check.

Oak Harbor utility department at 360-279-4530. They will answer questions or direct you accordingly.

The drivers are documenting extra trash, damage, or problems.

If your trash will not fit inside your rollcart you will need to pre-purchase the blue, City of Oak Harbor extra garbage bags. They can be purchased at City Hall Utilities office, Haggen, and Saar's Marketplace.  Please place your filled "extra garbage" bag next to your rollcart on your regular collection day.

Call the Oak Harbor Utilities Department at 360-279-4530 for a replacement can. At that time we will assess responsibility. Most cases the damage is caused by the Garbage/Recycle truck.

If you see a truck and your rollcart hasn’t been emptied, verify that it was the right truck.  We have three different routes that may drive by your house so check your neighbors’ rollcart just in case.  If you are sure that it was missed, was it behind a car or obstructed in some way, was the lid up, did you have it out on time?   If it was any of these, fix the problem and check if we have picked up across the street.  If not, run it across the street for it to be picked up.  If we have picked up across the street you will need to call the City of Oak Harbor Utilities office at 360-279-4530 and there might be a fee to return to your house depending on the situation.  We do make mistakes and will resolve situations best we can.

If your garbage day falls on a holiday in most cases your rollcarts will be picked up the next business day unless it fall on a Friday the rollcarts will be picked up the day before. View the holiday schedule (PDF).

Garbage rollcarts and recycling bins need to be out by 7 am. A charge of $25.70 will be charged for a return trip. Special circumstances will be considered. Please call the City of Oak Harbor Utilities department at 360-279-4530 for the garbage truck or recycling truck to return. Another option is to buy an extra garbage bag and place it out the next week. The City of Oak Harbor extra garbage bags can be purchased at Saar's Market Place, Haggen, and the City Hall Utilities office for $4.86 

In most cases rollcarts are lost or misplaced by wind or a confused neighbor. After your garbage day look down the street for a loose rollcart it might be yours or talk to your neighbor, they might have grabbed yours by mistake. The City of Oak Harbor Solid Waste Department is not responsible for missing rollcarts. If you have lost it you may be charged for a replacement so please do your best to find it. In rare cases if you have left your rollcart on the street longer than two business days it may have been removed by the utility as per Oak Harbor Municipal code 15.04.110.04. If you feel this is the case please call the Oak Harbor Utilities department at 360-279-4530.

$63.32. It is charged out as the time for removal from the truck (climbing into the hopper and removing the contaminated material back into the recycle bin), a garbage truck call out and the dump of a 65-gallon garbage rollcart.

Fill out the Commercial Recycling Request Form (PDF) and send to Utilities or call 360-279-4530.

There are a few recycle drop-off sites on the island. Visit the Island County Solid Waste website for operation times and locations.

Visit the Island County Solid Waste website for more information.

The CFL (Compact Fluorescent Lamp) bulbs which are the small spiral type that replace the incandescent bulbs can be recycled at Ace Hardware and the Island County Recycle Station (3151 Oak Harbor Road). The tube-type fluorescent bulbs can be recycled at the Island County Recycle station as well.

A recycle bin containing non-recyclables can contaminate a whole load. If contamination is found, the truck is stopped and we will enter the hopper and remove the tainted material back into your rollcart. In most cases, you will be warned numerous times. If the recycle rollcart contains yard waste, feces, putrid garbage, or a full bin of non-recyclables you will not be warned and your tag will indicate so. Documentation will be made.

We currently have a co-mingle recycle system. All recycle is in one container and dumped into the truck. When glass is introduced it will break into small shards and impregnate the other recyclables rendering them un-recyclable. The recyclables are transported and sorted into separate commodities by a private company if they are contaminated in any way they will be considered garbage. So all the time and effort used to recycle will be for nothing. We have three locations for you to dump your glass. One is in the Safeway parking lot, one is in the OfficeMax parking lot, and the last is in the Oak Harbor Marina parking lot.

The recycle truck has a mechanical arm that lifts the can 11 feet into the hopper of the truck. Most loose recyclables do not make that trip well unless they are secured. We have made this a fully automated system to achieve maximum efficiency. If the drivers have to exit the truck numerous times it becomes inefficient. Make sure that all the cardboard in the rollcart is cut up and you're using all the space in the bin. If you still have extra cardboard make sure it is cut down to 4 by 4 sheets and binding would be nice. The only things that should be next to your bin is motor oil and small amounts of scrap metal.

Was it behind a car or obstructed in some way? Did you have your rollcart out after 7 am? Yes? Check across the street if they haven't been picked up run it across for pick up. If they have, call the City of Oak Harbor Utilities office at 360-279-4530. Is there a tag on the bin? Usually, depending on the situation your bin might have been left due to contamination. Read the lid and resolve the situation or view our Recycling Program Material List (PDF) for a list of acceptable items.

The City maintains up to four feet from the edge of the asphalt, anything beyond that is the responsibility of the homeowner. These types of potholes are usually caused by vehicles leaving or entering the roadway.

When a traffic signal malfunctions but still has power, it will often revert to an all-red flashing mode. When you approach a signal light that is flashing red, you must come to a complete stop (signals that are in flashing mode can return to normal operation at any time and without warning, even when repair workers are not present). The flashing red may change to a solid red, and drivers often fail to notice the difference, running the red light. Proceeding on a solid red light is always illegal and can lead to a deadly crash. Be alert, and make sure that the light is still flashing and that it is safe to proceed before entering the intersection.

Always treat the intersection as a 4-way stop.

The Department of Ecology implements the Federal Clean Water Act and the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). Because of this federal law, Ecology's construction stormwater general permit is required for certain construction activities. The goal of the permit is to reduce or eliminate stormwater pollution and other impacts to surface waters from construction sites.

In order to apply and receive coverage by the 2005 Construction Stormwater General Permit go to the WA Department of Ecology website.

• Apply for coverage.
• Develop and use a stormwater pollution prevention plan.
• Pay permit fees.
• Monitor stormwater and inspect best management practices.
• Record and report results.
• Terminate the permit.

If you have questions or need assistance with drafting the public notice or completing the applications or other forms, please contact the following:
Elaine Worthen
Phone: 360-407-7229
Email Elaine Worthen

Ecology Regional Contacts

• Report high turbidity readings please contact the following Ecology Regional Offices by calling: 425-649-7000
• To get a copy of the Northwest Region Stormwater Management Manual download from the website for Western Washington at the WA Department of Ecology website

Send all completed forms to:
Department of Ecology
Water Quality Program
Construction Stormwater
P.O. Box 47696
Olympia, WA 98504-7696

Disturb

Construction activities that require this permit are any land disturbing activities such as clearing, grading, excavating, and /or demolition that: one or more acres of land area, or are "part of a" and Ecology can also require a permit for any size construction site if it determines the site is a:

• Construction activities that require a permit also include clearing forested areas, if the clearing is in preparation for construction activities.
• Larger common plan of development or sale" that will ultimately disturb one or more acres of land Discharge stormwater from the site into state surface water(s) or into storm drainage systems, which discharge to state surface waters. significant contributor of pollutants to waters of the state.

The operator of the construction site must apply for permit coverage. The operator can be either the party with operational control over construction plans and specifications or the party in charge of day-to-day activities related to Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). The operator, also known as the permittee, is responsible for applying and following the terms of the Construction Stormwater General Permit.

You must get Ecology's Construction stormwater permit even if you already have permits from The City of Oak Harbor.

First call 360-279-4530 Public works wastewater will be notified. From there it will be determined whether the problem is the mainline or side-sewer. If the main sewer line is flowing fine the problem will be in the private sewer. "Private sewer" means a sewer and associated facilities connecting a "building drain" to a public main. A private sewer is primarily located on private property but also includes those portions of the line located in the public right-of-way. Private sewer begins at the connection to the building drain and ends at the connection to the public main. It is the responsibility of the property owner to maintain and keep repaired the private sewer whether on public easements, right-of-way or private property.

Introduction

When wastewater treatment plants are properly operated, public health and the state's waters are protected. This certification program is working to help ensure that operators meet the established requirements and are competent to operate and maintain wastewater treatment plants. More and more water is becoming polluted and must be treated before it can be used safely. If you're interested in protecting Washington's water and want to become certified, you've come to the right place.

Email, fax, or mail all correspondence and professional growth documents to:
Department of Ecology
Wastewater Operator Certification
P.O. Box 47696
Olympia, WA 98504-7696
Fax: 360-407-6426
Email Poppy Carre
Email Melinda Wilson

Mail all payments to:
Department of Ecology
Cashiering Section
P.O. Box 47611
Olympia, WA 98504-7611

Qualification Requirements for Operator Certification

There are five levels of wastewater certification in Washington - Operator in Training (OIT) - Group IV. Each level of certification has minimum education and experience requirements and requires the applicant to take and pass an exam. All require a high school diploma or GED, in addition:

• OIT - requires 3 months of domestic wastewater treatment plant operating experience, 3 college credits or continuing education units (CEU) in something relevant to wastewater can be substituted for the operating experience.
• Group I - requires 1 year of domestic wastewater treatment plant operating experience, there is no substitution for the operating experience.
• Group II - requires 3 years of domestic wastewater treatment plant operating experience, up to half (one year six months) can be substituted with relevant experience or education.
• Group III - requires 90 credits or CEUs relevant to wastewater and 4 years of domestic wastewater treatment plant operating experience with at least 2 years at a Class II or higher plant. Excess operating experience can be used to substitute for the education at a rate of 1 year of excess experience for the first year of education and 3 years of excess experience for the second year of education. Up to half (two years) of the operating experience can be substituted with relevant experience or excess education relevant to wastewater.
• Group IV - requires 180 credits or CEUs in education that's relevant to wastewater and 4 years of domestic wastewater treatment plant operating experience with at least 2 years at a Class III or higher plant. Excess operating experience can be used to substitute for the education at a rate of 1 year each of excess experience for the first two years of education and 3 years each of excess experience for the second two years of education. Up to half (two years) of the operating experience can be substituted with relevant experience or excess education relevant to wastewater as long as 2 years of operating experience is at a Class III or higher plant.

Who to Contact for Assistance

For more information please contact Ecology's Wastewater Operator Certification Program:
Poppy Carre
Phone: 360-407-6449
Toll-Free Within the State: 800-633-6193
Fax: 360-407-6426
Email Poppy Carre

Melinda Wilson
Phone: 360-407-6889
Email Melinda Wilson

Oak Harbor is the facility planning phase for a new Water Reclamation Facility and will study several alternatives. Composting, land application, hauling off-Island for disposal, or a combination of these methods are possible.

MBR stands for Membrane Biological Reactor. This type of technology produces a class "A" water suitable for re-use in the irrigation of parks and golf courses, street washing, industrial cooling water and many other non-potable applications. A list of these can be found under Wastewater Documents, under "Wastewater Reuse Standards". It is a process of the biological removal of solids through nitrification which is similar to that found in nature. This environment is different in that it is all suspended in liquid and therefore air has to be introduced using blowers to meet the respiration needs of the bacteria.

Bacteria must be kept healthy and productive to consume the sewage and stabilize its effect on receiving waters. The membrane portion is a filter that either pulls or pushes liquid through while retaining the solids for recycle back to the biological tanks or to waste out of the system for solids handling and further reduction and stabilization. These filters are so small that all bacteria are trapped and the resulting permeate is virtually clear. Disinfection is still needed as viruses can make their way through the filter.

At this time we don't know where the plant will be sited. What we do know is that this facility will be located where it meets the future needs of the citizens of Oak Harbor. Many concerns arise when choosing a site. Cost is a big driver on which location is picked and which technology is chosen. The selection process will determine if we can use existing outfalls or not, they are very expensive to build and place in service. It will determine if the conveyance system (the sewer lines that deliver waste to the facility) needs to be altered significantly and if so how much and at what cost.

Do we want odorless and quite? If an advanced Membrane Bio-Reactor (MBR) technology is the chosen technology the plant will not be smell or be noisy but will cost more to build. If a conventional system is chosen it will most likely be sited remotely out of the city and Windjammer Park which will incur costs for conveyance, land acquisition, and outfall issues but not be as much of a nuisance. Many communities are opting to build the more expensive (MBR) water reclamation plants and incorporate learning centers. These centers help us better understand how as a community we can protect the health of our citizens, marine life and environment. Taking advantage of the high quality water of the MBR for irrigation and conservation has its merits.

Composting and other beneficial alternatives will be considered with the reuse of plant bio-solids (the solids generated from wastewater treatment which are digested and stabilized). These products can be use in parks and city landscapes as opposed to disposal and the costs involved in hauling it off. The Department of Ecology will play a big role in these evaluations as well, with particular interest in cleaner effluent standards. So the big question is: Do we want and can we afford a Cadillac facility or is a more affordable model which meets the basic needs a better investment for now and into the future? Stay posted, as there will be opportunities for citizens to express ideas and concerns.

The City is currently sewered to the RBC Plant so minimal changes to the conveyance system would be required. The Oak Harbor outfall is not useable and would need to be replaced. Currently, new Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) plants are built to mitigate odor and noise. An MBR plant can fit the marine theme of a Park like Windjammer and be built to look like a feature of the park. In fact, many new facilities incorporate education centers for citizens and tourists to learn more about water reclamation and advanced treatment methods. Water quality would be exceptional and could be reused. If the final decision is to build in the Park the water can be utilized to water the Park and Ball Fields or to create water features for all to enjoy. For every gallon of reuse water, the city can use a gallon of potable water is saved and that's good for everyone.

No, you need to come into our office to sign up for service and pay the $25 administrative fee. The Utilities Clerk will provide an informational handout explaining the services provided.

Yes, you may come into the Utilities Department at City Hall to fill out the required application. 17% savings on water, sewer, and garbage (on a 20-gallon size can).

By coming into City Hall and signing up for services. An application card needs to be completed and a $25 administration fee paid.

View the Prices of Different Size Rollcarts (PDF).

The City of Oak Harbor office hours are:

Monday through Friday
8 am to 4:30 pm

We accept cash, check, debit cards, credit cards (Visa and Mastercard), and "direct debit" payments. You can sign up for the "direct debit" payment option by filling out the enrollment form in the Utilities Department. Credit Card payments can be made in person or through the City of Oak Harbor website.

The payment can be placed in the "drop box" outside City Hall, pay in person in the Utilities office, or mailed. Credit card payments (VISA or Mastercard) can be made over the telephone by calling 360-279-4530 or through the City of Oak Harbor website. A direct debit pay service is available. To sign up for direct debit -fill out the form in the Utilities department and attach a canceled check.

To a point. You can place stickers or ribbons to mark your roll cart. Do Not Paint or permanently etch your roll cart. The roll cart is still the City of Oak Harbor property. Any permanent damage will be charged accordingly. Stickers are removable as well as ribbons or string. It is recommended that you mark your roll cart if you live in a multi-unit establishment to prevent your neighbors from accidentally grabbing your roll cart.

Our temporary dumpsters come in 1,2,3,4 and 6 (see commercial pictures for a visual). For larger projects, you can also rent a 20-yard container. Make sure that you have a location off the city right-of-way (off sidewalks or the street) free of overhead obstructions and on level ground. View the Dumpster and Rollcart Charges (PDF).

Call Utilities at 360-279-4530 for a price quote on curbside service or you may self-haul to the Island county dump. For directions visit Google Maps.

Call utilities at 360-279-4530 and we will swap it out for a replacement.

The trucks mechanical arm may have squeezed the can too tight. There might have been an item in the can that stuck or plastic bags cause a vacuum in the can and remain. Dislodge the items and call Oak Harbor Utilities office at 360-279-4530 for a re-dump free of charge.

If your trash will not fit inside your roll cart you will need to pre-purchase the blue, City of Oak Harbor extra garbage bags. They can be purchased in the Oak Harbor Utilities office, Safeway, Haggen, and Saar's Marketplace. Please place your filled "extra garbage" bag next to your roll cart on your regular collection day.

If you see a truck and your roll cart hasn't been emptied, verify that it was the right truck. We have three different routes that may drive by your house so check your neighbors' roll cart just in case. If you are sure that it was missed, was it behind a car or obstructed in some way, was the lid up, did you have it out on time? If it was any of these, fix the problem and check if we have picked up across the street. If not, run it across the street for it to be picked up. If we have picked up across the street you will need to call Oak Harbor Utilities at 360-279-4530 and there might be a return trip fee to return to your house depending on the situation. We do make mistakes and will resolve most situations the best we can.

Large amounts of Yard Waste can be self-hauled to Island County Dump or Mailliard's Landing. For basic yard upkeep, you can sign up for the Yard Waste 95 Gallon Rollcart Program (PDF).

Call the City of Oak Harbor Utilities at 360-279-4530.

Garbage, recycling, and yard waste will need to be out at 7 am on your established garbage day. Our shift starts at 7 and ends around 2:30. Any time between your can may be picked up. Routes change, trucks have problems and the staff will change daily. To be sure of pick up, have all roll carts out by 7 am

Most of our Junkyards will take large amounts of metals and tires and you can also take them to the island county dump. Visit the Island County Solid Waste page for more information.

Visit the Island County website to recycle chemicals and cooking oil. You can place used motor oil next to your recycle bin and we will recycle it. Please Do not throw any of these in the garbage?

Closed lids reduce litter and vermin from invading our neighborhoods. We have established a pre-paid extra garbage bag system. By keeping lids closed we have increased efficiency in dumping roll carts. The cans that overflowed spilled out onto the street when dumped causing the drivers to stop and clean up best they can, losing time and still causing a mess. Windy days caused the extra trash to blow around the areas. Crows, seagulls, and other vermin will drag material out and spread it through the area. Also, why are you paying for the same size roll cart as your neighbor that is balancing extra garbage on their can causing a mess that will likely blow into your yard for you to clean up. Using the pre-paid extra garbage bags lets you be responsible for your own garbage. The blue bags can be purchased from Oak Harbor Utilities office, Safeway, Haggen, and Saar's Marketplace for $4.85 each.

Yes, we add fluoride to the State standards (1 part per million) which is considered an ideal level by the American Dental Association for dental health.

Taste or odor in water can come from many things:

• Fluctuating levels of chlorine
• Large amounts of organic matter in the river due to flooding and the taste of chemicals that are used to remove that matter
• Water that has sat in the water mains or service lines for long periods of time

The water is still safe to drink. Try to run the faucet for a little while and see if it goes away. If it doesn't clear up contact the Water Division and we will check it out and possibly we might have to flush the water main.

Chlorine is a disinfectant that acts as health insurance against the possible occurrence of disease-causing pathogens. If this type of contaminating were present in the water, chlorine would kill it. Chlorine dosages in your water are low: between 0.2 part per million to 1.0 part per million.

RSS stands for Really Simple Syndication. It's an easy way for you to keep up with news and information that's important to you, and helps you avoid the conventional methods of browsing or searching for information on websites. Now the content you want can be delivered directly to you without cluttering your inbox with email messages. This content is called a "feed."

An RSS reader is a small software program that collects and displays RSS feeds. It allows you to scan headlines from a number of news sources in a central location.

Some browsers, such as the current versions of Firefox and Safari have built in RSS readers. If you're using a browser that doesn't currently support RSS, there are a variety of RSS readers available on the web; some are free to download and others are available for purchase.

Yes. It will cost the same as the first one.

You can sign up at the Utilities department. View the Yard Waste 95 Gallon Rollcart Program and Sign up (PDF).

No. Our program is not as evolved as theirs. We are working towards the same goal but our program is limited to just green waste as of this time.

Yard waste bins are $13.25 monthly Peak Season (March to November) and $4.43 monthly during off-peak season (December to February). Yard waste bags are $3.50 each at Safeway, Haggen, Saar's Marketplace, and the Oak Harbor Utilities department.

Yard waste is picked up on a weekly basis from March to November. December to February it is picked up the first week of the month on your normal garbage day.

To be accepted as yard waste, the material must consist of grass, leaves, pine needles, pinecones, thatch, vines, weeds, and branches or other such fresh yard waste type material, not putrefied. Woody material must be no more than 3 inches in diameter and not extend outside the approved collection container. Customers are cautioned that yard material may not contain any of the following: sod (beyond small amounts), rocks, dirt, gravel, concrete, glass, metal, plastic bags, household solid waste and recyclables, animal feces, paint residue, Christmas or holiday decorations, paper, flocking, dimensional lumber, stumps/roots.

If a bin is "Too Heavy" there is a fear of damaging the bin, the truck, or the driver. Bins should be less than 150 pounds and bags under 50 pounds. If you can barely move your bin or bag without tearing it, it's probably overweight.

Yard waste bags can be purchased at Safeway, Marketplace, and the Utilities Department. They cost $3.50 each.

They are heavy and will damage the truck.  Our packer blades are metal on metal slide.  If you introduce rocks and dirt it acts like sandpaper damaging it as well as the pressures that the packer blade produces can make holes in the body.  Also if the bin is overloaded the truck may pick it up but the bin will not take the weight and break.

 Follow Dakota's directions.  

Marin Woods

Submit a vacation check request form.

Blue!

Example answer

Blue

A public record is any writing containing information relating to the conduct of government or the performance of any governmental or proprietary function prepared, owned, used, or retained by the City regardless of physical form or characteristics. This includes, but is not limited to, handwriting, typewriting, printing, photostating, photographing, and every other means of recording any form of communication or representation including, but not limited to, electronic media, paper, email, microfilm audiotapes, videotapes, magnetic tapes, and disks (CDs/DVDs). A valid public records request is a request for a specific and identifiable public document. A request for general information is not a valid public records request. You do not have to identify the record you want with exact precision, but as much detail as you can provide will be helpful. Our staff may assist in clarifying your request.

No.  An agency is not required to create a record which is otherwise non-existent. 

Oak Harbor Municipal Code (OHMC) 1.14.030 states: "Records Subject to Disclosure. The city need only disclose records or portions of records to the extent required by the Public Records Act, and nothing in this chapter shall be interpreted as requiring the disclosure of any record that is not subject to disclosure by the Public Records Act or other applicable law. Records or portions of records may be withheld or redacted to the extent necessary or permissible by law. A list of exemptions and prohibitions against disclosure is available in the public records officer's office, upon request. The city shall not be required to create records or documents in response to a request for public records that do not exist at the time the request is made. A public records request is not continuing in nature, and will not be treated as such even if requested. In the event additional records are created after the date of the requester's original public records request, the requester will be required to submit a new request for the later created records." (emphasis added)

Each record must be reviewed to determine whether it is exempt from disclosure. Most exemptions are listed in RCW 42.56.230 - 42.56.480. However, certain state and federal statutes outside the Public Records Act also provide exemptions from disclosure or prohibitions on disclosure of particular records. When a city denies a request for disclosure of a public record, the specific statutory exemption on which the denial is based must be identified, along with a brief explanation of how the exemption applies. 

No. Once the City receives a public records request, the request itself becomes a public record of the City. Someone else may make a public records request for that document and we will provide it.

The Agenda Center provides City Council, Advisory Board, Commission, and Committee agendas and minutes. 

Further information on how to obtain copies of birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates can be found at the Washington State Department of Health - Center for Health Certificates. 

RCW 42.56.520 provides that a response to a request for public records must be made within five (5) business days. The day the request is received does not count as one of the five (5) days. Weekends and holidays observed by the agency are also excluded in the calculation. Within the five (5) days, the City will do one of the following: - provide the records (or an installment of the records) - acknowledge receipt of the request and give an estimated timetable for delivery - ask for clarification - deny the request with a statement as to why the record is being withheld and a citation of the applicable state or federal statute. 

No. According to WAC 414-12-020 and WAC 414-12-010, regulations that govern custody of public records, public records are the property of the City and should be stored in the office in which they were originally filed. This location is not generally the office of the clerk, but may be a field office of the City, or in some cases, offsite storage. This may mean that the City may need additional time to retrieve records from storage. 

No.  A future record is one that does not exist today but may be created in the future. If there is no "writing," there can be no "public record" and, accordingly, there can be no requirement to allow inspection or copying as a result of a current request. Obviously, if a future request is made and the record then exists, the request will need to be considered. The City's obligation is confined to existing records. 

Oak Harbor Municipal Code (OHMC) 1.14.030 states: "Records Subject to Disclosure. The city need only disclose records or portions of records to the extent required by the Public Records Act, and nothing in this chapter shall be interpreted as requiring the disclosure of any record that is not subject to disclosure by the Public Records Act or other applicable law. Records or portions of records may be withheld or redacted to the extent necessary or permissible by law. A list of exemptions and prohibitions against disclosure is available in the public records officer's office, upon request. The city shall not be required to create records or documents in response to a request for public records that do not exist at the time the request is made. A public records request is not continuing in nature, and will not be treated as such even if requested. In the event additional records are created after the date of the requester's original public records request, the requester will be required to submit a new request for the later created records." (emphasis added)

Yes. See OHMC 1.14.090(3) and (5). 

When a request is made for a large number of records, the Public Records Officer may make the records available for review or copying on a partial or installment basis as the records are assembled and become available for review or duplication. If, within 30 days, the requestor fails to inspect the entire set of records or one or more of the installments, the Public Records Officer may stop searching for the remaining records and close the request. Likewise, if payment for an installment is not made, the Public Records Officer may stop searching for the remaining records and close the request.

Review of Denials of Public Records

Requesting a review of denials of public records: RCW 42.56.520 allows for review of denials of public records.

OHMC 1.14.140 Denial of request - Appeal.  In the event the public records officer denies a request, or any portion of a request for public records, the requester may appeal the denial to the city administrator. The city administrator shall review the public records officer's response and issue a decision upholding or reversing the denial of the request, in whole or in part, within five (5) business days of the receipt of appeal, or within such other time as may be agreed upon with the requester. Upon completion of the appeal process, the city's response will be deemed final.

The full mull marathon has a 6-hour course time limit and the half marathon has a 4:30 time limit. If you are unable to make certain checkpoints by the time needed to meet the six-hour limit, we will pick you up and move you forward to the next checkpoint, and average your current pace time accordingly to add to your overall finish time. Please allow us to do this as we have to meet road closure opening times.

A disposable chip will be used for official times. Gun start time will be used for prize money. There will be split timing mats throughout the courses.

All athletes in the Full Marathon must be 16 years old or older. If you are younger than 16 and would like to participate in the Full Marathon, please have a parent or guardian contact us with this request. 

There is no age limit for the Half Marathon.

No, in accordance with USATF rules, these items will not be allowed on any course.

Yes! We are pleased to announce the Super Pacers based in Tacoma, WA will be pacing both the full marathon and half marathon in 2023

Marathon – 3:30, 3:45, 4:00, 4:10, 4:20, 4:30, 4:45, 5:00

Half Marathon – 1:50, 2:00, 2:10, 2:15, 2:20, 2:30

*Pace times could change and could be reduced based on pacer availability.

Portable toilets will be located at each start line, at every water/aid station approximately 2 miles apart along the course and at the finish line.

You will receive a confirmation email after you registered. If you didn’t receive that confirmation email or are unsure if you are registered, please shoot us an email to info@fizzeventsnw.com. You can also look up if you're registered and edit your registration via the "Find A Participant" tool we offer  HERE - From here, you can edit your registration, transfer to another event and defer to the following year.

Unfortunately, we do not offer a refund after registering to participate in the Whidbey Island Marathon or surrounding events. We will allow participants to change race categories prior to the race, transfer their race entry to a friend*, transfer to virtual or defer their entry to the following year. If you would like to take advantage of any of these options, you can actually do so on your own. Follow this link to view the "Participant & Race Management FAQs" and make changes as you'd like HERE

Yes – We are happy to switch you from one event to another. You will be charged the difference if you are going up in distance but there will be no refunds for downgrading from a longer distance to a shorter distance. If you’d like to switch distances, please pick up your bib at the expo and bring it to the help desk where we will make the change.

Yes, all packets will be available up until 15 minutes before the start of your race at your respective start line, AND all shirts will be available at the finish line after your race

It is usually slightly overcast to sunny on race day with temperatures ranging on average from 51 degrees up to 66 degrees. It is Washington and it is the spring time. It could be colder and it could be windy and/or rainy – Please check the forecast before starting your run and dress accordingly.

Please contact the City of Oak Harbor Special Events Coordinator at specialevents@oakharbor.org or call (360) 279-4504. 

OakPAC is short for the Oak Harbor Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee. This is a large group of people and agencies in the community whose voice is critical is accomplishing successful planning in Oak Harbor. This group will convene three times throughout the process to review key issues that may come up during the data collection and goal revisions process. These meetings will be open to the public. Please note, this group will not provide a formal recommendation on the plan, they will only guide direction of goals for the Planning Staff. 

A comprehensive plan is a compass that guides growth and development over the next 20-years. The plan serves as a guiding document for local governments' future decision making. The plan addresses many topics including population growth, housing, transportation, infrastructure and utilities, economic development, parks, recreation and open space, rural areas, and protection of natural resource lands. The plan includes goals, objectives, policies, actions, and standards. For more information on the Comprehensive Plan, see the Washington planning resources below.

Yes, the 2016 Comprehensive Plan will be updated during this year long process. Click the link to read the 2016 Oak Harbor Comprehensive Plan. When the last plan was adopted, it was required to update the plan every 8 years. As of 2023, the State requires comprehensive plans to be updated every 10 years.

Data collection for the project has already started. Community engagement events for the project will start mid-late Summer 2024 and go until Spring 2025. The project is estimated to be completed by the end of June 2025.

Everyone is involved in the Oak Harbor’s Comprehensive Plan. The City’s Planning team works tirelessly coordinating with agencies at the County and State level on data collection for the plan. Residents and business owners in the city contribute invaluable data about the current community conditions. This helps the Planning Commission and Council understand how the plan can improve residents’ quality of life. 

State Law requires the Comprehensive Plan be updated every 10 years. This is referred to in state law as the “periodic update”. It also requires that changes in state law since the last update get incorporated into the plan. The plan must also address changes in local circumstances, such as population growth, and community priorities. Updates ensure Comprehensive Plans remain relevant to the evolving conditions of the jurisdiction, while establishing a collective vision for the next 20 years.

The City uses the Comprehensive Plan to guide local development and capital budget decisions. The plan's goals and policies will be implemented through changes to zoning designations and development regulations.

The City Council will make the final decision on the Comprehensive Plan after the Planning Commission has completed a thorough review of the existing conditions, community engagement data, and revisions to the goals and policies. According to the project timeline, the Planning Commission will make a final recommendation to the Council in Spring 2025.

We encourage you to sign up for the City’s newsletter to stay involved on the project and receive email updates. Click here to sign up for the newsletter. There will be a series of opportunities to provide feedback including two surveys, public meetings, and multiple public comment periods. 

“Accessory Dwelling Unit” means an additional dwelling unit added to, created within, or on the same property as a single-family dwelling.  Also known as mother-in-law apartments.   

“Commercial/Industrial” means commercial uses or industrial uses, or both, are allowed on the lot with no residential allowed. 

“Mixed-use” means multiple uses developed on a single parcel or parcels in common ownership or multiple uses within the same building. Examples include hotels, offices, retail, restaurants, and residences constructed in that manner.

“Public safety” means services that protect the public, property, or environment of a community. These are most commonly emergency response, crime prevention, public health, law enforcement, safety education, and protection of infrastructure.

“Infrastructure” means publicly funded or publicly used facilities. Most commonly these are sidewalks and roads, but improvements can also be bridges, curbs, gutters, railways, tunnels, sewer, and more.

“Infrastructure improvements” means improving publicly funded or publicly used facilities. These are often road projects, but improvements can also be for bridges, tunnels, sewer, or any infrastructure facility.

“Reduce the use of fossil fuels” could mean a variety of solutions. An example of ways to reduce fossile fuels is improving energy efficiency in building heating and cooling systems, transitioning to renewable energy, and expanding sustaintable transportation solutions.

“Flooding” means a natural disaster that occurs when water overflows onto normally dry land, often due to heavy rainfall, storm surges, or the rapid melting of snow and ice. This excess water can submerge homes, infrastructure, and agricultural areas, causing significant damage and disruption.

“Sea level rise” means the gradual increase in the average level of the world's oceans due to factors such as the melting of ice caps and glaciers, as well as the thermal expansion of seawater as it warms. This rise poses significant risks, including coastal erosion, increased flooding, and the displacement of coastal communities.

“Extreme precipitation” means an unusually high amount of rainfall or snowfall over a short period, often resulting in intense storms or heavy downpours. This phenomenon can lead to severe flooding, soil erosion, and damage to infrastructure and ecosystems.

“Extreme heat” means prolonged periods of unusually high temperatures that significantly exceed normal seasonal averages. This phenomenon can lead to health risks such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke, strain on energy and water resources, and increased risk of wildfires.

“Drought” means an extended period of abnormally low precipitation that results in a shortage of water supply. This can lead to severe impacts on agriculture, water resources, and ecosystems, causing crop failures, reduced water availability, and damage to wildlife habitats.

The Local B&O tax is a tax levied on business activities in Oak Harbor. It functions as a tax on business gross receipts. The Oak Harbor Local B&O tax is not the same as the Washington State B&O tax. It is filed separately and in addition to other applicable federal, state, and local taxes.

The effective date of the Oak Harbor Local B&O Tax is October 1, 2025.

The initial Local B&O tax payments for the 4th quarter of 2025 and 1st quarter of 2026 will be due April 30, 2026. Thereafter, payments will be due quarterly at the end of the month following the close of the quarter. For example, the second quarter of 2026 closes on June 30, 2026 with taxes due on July 31, 2026; the third quarter of 2026 closes on September 30, 2026 with taxes due on October 31, 2026.

• March 27, 2024 City Council Workshop
• May 21, 2024 City Council Meeting: Proposed Ordinance presented and not adopted
• Discussed during the budget hearings and workshops conducted for the 2025-26 biennial budget and other Council items.
• December 18, 2024 two public workshops on Local B&O Tax held.
• January 21, 2025 City Council Meeting during discussion on potential creation of a Public Port District.
• February 25, 2025 City Council Workshop
• March 25, 2025 City Council Workshop
• May 20, 2025 City Council Meeting - Proposed Local B&O Tax Ordinance presented and continued to a future meeting.
• July 22, 2025 City Council Workshop
• August 6, 2025 City Council Meeting - Adoption of Local B&O Tax Ordinance

· Manufacturing - 0.002 (1/5 of 1%)

· Retail - 0.002 (1/5 of 1%)

· Services - 0.002 (1/5 of 1%)

· Wholesaling - 0.002 (1/5 of 1%)

· Others - 0.002 (1/5 of 1%)

Businesses with gross receipts equal to or less than $4,000,000, or is equal to or less than $1,000,000 during any quarter if on a quarterly reporting basis are exempt from the Local B&O Tax.

About 1% of Oak Harbor's businesses will be responsible for paying this tax.

· Business activity subject to the City's Utility Tax.

· Money earned from investments, unless the investments are part of a larger banking or finance business. Dividends that a company receives from its subsidiaries are also exempt.

· Insurance agents (brokers are subject to tax).

· Sale of real estate, or rental income if the lease is for 30 days or more. However, no exemption is allowed for amounts received as commissions on real estate sales.

· Funds held in trust by a mortgage broker.

· Producing or selling motor vehicle fuel.

· Producing or selling liquor.

· Casual and isolated sales, such as an accountant selling his or her office furniture.

· Accommodation sales, such as an automobile dealer selling a vehicle at cost to another dealer to fill an existing order.

· Taxes collected as trust funds, such as when a business collects sales tax from a customer to be remitted to the state.

· Nonprofit organizations, except for any retail sales they make.

· Activities subject to the City’s gambling tax.

· House of Worship daycare programs.

· Federal, state, and local government agencies.

· Professional/semi-professional/amateur sports teams operating in Oak Harbor, except for any retail sales they make.

· The above is a summary of the Local B&O Tax Exemptions. More details can be found in Ordinance No. 1998.

· Receipts from sales of tangible personal property delivered to the buyer outside of Washington.

· Receipts from sales of tangible personal property and retail services delivered to the buyer outside of Oak Harbor but within Washington.

· Cash discount taken by purchaser (deduction does not apply to extracting or manufacturing classifications).

· Credit losses (bad debts) of accrual basis taxpayers.

· State or Federal constitutional prohibitions on taxes.

· The amounts collected by professional employer services that represents that actual cost of payroll charged to a client.

· The amounts from businesses engaged in banking, loan, security, or other financial business derived from interest received on investments or loans primarily secured by first mortgages or trust deeds on non-transient residential properties.

· The above is a summary of the Local B&O Tax Deductions. More details can be found in the proposed Ordinance.

Local B&O tax registration is completed by obtaining a City of Oak Harbor business license endorsement. The city partners with the Washington State Department of Revenue for its business license application process. For details, go to https://dor.wa.gov/manage-business/city-endorsements/oak-harbor.

Upon being approved for an Oak Harbor business license, we will mail a letter to the business with the tax registration information. You should receive your tax registration letter within 30 days of being approved for a city business license.

For the initial implementation of the Local B&O Tax program, we will mail letters to all businesses with Oak Harbor business licenses.

Oak Harbor's Local B&O tax return forms are under development and will be available (with instructions) on the City's website prior to the first tax return due date. We aim to have an online form and payment option in place by that time. If filing with paper forms, returns will need to be printed and sent by mail with a check or money order.

All business must file an initial return. However, to avoid needing to file periodic returns after the initial return, businesses under the exemption threshold may file a request for active non-reporting status. If approved, the City will keep your application for active non-reporting status on file. Should you find that your business receipts exceed the tax exemption threshold, you must pay your taxes by the due date for the filing period. It will be your responsibility to reconcile your receipts to confirm they are below the exemption threshold each filing period and provide them to the City upon request. Businesses that owe taxes from prior periods will be responsible to pay back-taxes and associated late penalties.