Chapter 13.08 SEWER SYSTEM

A. “Building drain” means that part of the lowest horizontal piping of a drainage system which receives the discharge from soil, waste and other drainage pipes inside the walls of the building and conveys it to the building sewer, beginning five feet outside the inner face of the building wall.

B. “Building sewer” means the extension from the building drain to the public sewer or other place of disposal.

C. “Garbage” means solid wastes from the preparation, cooking and dispensing of food, and from the handling, storage and sale of products.

D. “Garbage disposal unit” means any mechanical device that is used to reduce the size of solid matter to facilitate the solid to pass through a private or public sewer line.

E. “Industrial wastes” means the liquid wastes from industrial processes.

F. “Natural outlet” means any outlet into a watercourse, pond, ditch, lake or other body of surface water or groundwater.

G. “Properly shredded garbage” means the wastes from preparations, cooking and dispensing of food that have been shredded to such degree that all particles will be carried freely under the flow conditions normally prevailing in public sewers, with no particle greater than one-half inch in any dimension.

H. “Public works director” means the director of the water and sewage works of the city, or his authorized deputy, agent or representative.

I. “Sanitary sewer” means a sewer which carries sewage, and to which storm, surface and groundwaters are not intentionally admitted.

J. “Sewage” means a combination of the water-carried waste from residences, business buildings, institutions and industrial establishments.

K. “Sewage treatment plant” means any arrangement of devices and structures used for treating sewage.

L. “Sewage works” means all facilities for collecting, pumping, treating and disposing of sewage.

M. “Sewer” means a sewer in which all owners of abutting properties have equal rights, and is controlled by public authority.

N. “Storm sewer” or “storm drain” means a sewer which carries storm and surface waters and drainage, but excludes sewage and polluted industrial wastes.

O. “Suspended solids” means solids that either float on the surface of, or are in suspension in water, sewage or other liquids, and which are removable by laboratory filtering.

P. “Watercourse” means a channel in which a flow of water occurs, either continuously or intermittently. (Ord. 981 § 5, 1989; Ord. 679 § 1, 1982; Ord. 667 § 2, 1982).

13.08.020 Unsanitary deposit of waste unlawful.

It is unlawful for any person to place, deposit, or permit to be deposited in an unsanitary manner upon public or private property within the city, or in any area under the jurisdiction of the city, any human or animal excrement, garbage, or other objectionable waste. (Ord. 667 § 2, 1982).

13.08.030 Discharging polluted waters prohibited – Exceptions.

It is unlawful to discharge to any natural outlet within the city, or any area under the jurisdiction of the city, any sanitary sewage, industrial wastes or other polluted waters, except where suitable treatment has been provided in accordance with subsequent provisions of this chapter. This section shall go into effect when sewers are operable. (Ord. 667 § 3, 1982).

13.08.040 Privies, septic tanks and cesspools prohibited – Permit issuance.

Except as hereinafter provided, it is unlawful to construct or maintain any privy, privy vault, tank, cesspool or other facility intended or used for the disposal of sewerage; provided, however, that privies may be installed on agricultural property by special permit during the harvest season. The permit shall be issued by the building inspector who shall approve the location of the privy and the duration of the permit. (Ord. 667 § 4, 1982).

13.08.050 Property required to connect to public sewer.

In any area under the jurisdiction of the city the owner of each lot or parcel of real property within a utility local improvement district or any portion of a lot or parcel located within a horizontal plane of 300 feet perpendicular to any permanent wastewater facilities is hereby required, at his or her expense, to connect all applicable plumbing outlets from such building(s) or structure(s) directly to the public sewer, in accordance with the provisions of the FMC. The owners of all such properties located outside the boundary of a utility local improvement district (ULID) shall be required to submit a connection application to the public works department, obtain a building sewer permit and pay all applicable charges and fees and take any other action required by the provisions of the FMC. Exceptions to this section are as follows:

A. When the city or a developer extends permanent sewer service into an area not included within the boundaries of an utility local improvement district (ULID), existing structures in a single drainage area will not be required by the city to connect to the public system unless the owners of such structures voluntarily elect to connect to the public system and pay all fees/capital charges to the utility. If septic tank systems serving existing structures fail, however, then the owners of such existing structures shall be required to connect to the public sewer system immediately and at their own expense and pay all fees/capital charges to the utility.

B. Additional exemptions inside or outside the boundaries of a ULID may be granted for good cause as determined by the city’s director of public works. Such requests shall be in written form to the director and include but not be limited to the following:

1. Applicant’s name and address;

2. Reason for the request;

3. Map of applicant’s property including location of nearest existing sanitary sewer system;

4. Legal description of property including parcel number; and

5. Cost documentation excluding sewer connection charges.

Decisions by the director may be appealed to the Fife hearing examiner for a hearing. (Ord. 1801 § 1, 2012; Ord. 988 § 1, 1989; Ord. 667 § 5, 1982).

13.08.055 New construction – Extension of sewer.

All new construction, residential or commercial, required to be connected to the public sewer shall, at the property owner’s expense, extend the sewer main to and across the entire frontage of each lot or parcel prior to connection to the public system. Frontage definition, sewer size and sewer depth shall be as necessary to provide service in accordance with city sewer plans. (Ord. 1468 § 1, 2002).

13.08.060 Private disposal system – Permitted when.

A. Where a public sanitary sewer is not available under the provisions of FMC 13.08.050, the building sewer shall be connected to a private sewer disposal system complying with the provisions of this chapter.

B. Except as authorized by subsection (D) of this section, no commercial or industrial use shall be permitted to connect to a private system, the provisions of any other section or subsection of this chapter notwithstanding, unless all of the following conditions apply:

1. A local improvement district has been formed for the purpose of providing public sanitary sewer service to the property upon which the commercial or industrial use is to be located;

2. The private system is designed by a licensed professional engineer so the system does not allow the discharge of any effluent other than into a holding facility located on the property to be served by the private system;

3. The system meets all Department of Health requirements;

4. The property owner agrees, upon demand by the city, to disconnect from and remove the private system and connect to the public system at the property owner’s expense;

5. The property owner signs an agreement with the city prior to commencing construction on the private system agreeing to indemnify and hold the city harmless from any liability that results from the approval or operation of the private system; said agreement to be in a form approved by the city attorney;

6. Prior to commencement of construction of the private system the property owner posts a performance bond in an amount to be determined by the city engineer that equals 150 percent of the estimated cost of removing the private system and connecting to the public system; the performance bond to be in a form approved by the city attorney;

7. The property owner will pay all city fees associated with processing, reviewing and approving the application for an on-site system; and

8. Prior to approval of the on-site system, the property owner shall pay the sanitary sewer general facility charges in effect at the time the application is filed.

C. No application for exemption from connecting to the public sanitary sewer system shall be processed unless accompanied by a complete building permit application. The exemption shall expire at the same time that the building permit expires.

D. If the owner of an industrially zoned parcel intends to convert an existing structure to living quarters to be used to provide on-site security, and public sanitary sewer is not available to the property, then the public works director is authorized to allow the use of an alternative sanitary sewage disposal system upon such conditions as he determines are necessary to protect the public health, safety and welfare, so long as his conditions of approval include compliance with the provisions of subsections (B)(2) through (B)(8) of this section. (Ord. 1777 § 1 (Exh. A), 2012; Ord. 1644-07 § 1, 2007; Ord. 1415 § 1, 2000; Ord. 1348 § 1, 1999; Ord. 667 § 6, 1982).

13.08.070 Private disposal system – Construction permit required.

Before commencement of construction of a private sewage disposal system, i.e., septic tanks and drain fields, the owner shall first obtain a written permit from the Pierce County health department and submit the same to the city’s public works director. The application for such permit shall be to the Pierce County health department. The applicant shall supplement any plans, specifications and other information as are deemed necessary by the Pierce County health department. (Ord. 981 § 5, 1989; Ord. 667 § 7, 1982).

13.08.080 Private disposal system – Effective date of permit.

A permit for a private sewage disposal system shall not become effective until the installation is completed to the satisfaction of the Pierce County health department. (Ord. 667 § 8, 1982).

13.08.090 Private disposal system – Discharge restrictions.

No septic tank, cesspool or other private system shall be permitted to discharge to any public sewer or natural outlet without special approval of the public works director. (Ord. 981 § 5, 1989; Ord. 667 § 9, 1982).

13.08.100 Private disposal system – Connection to system required when.

Repealed by Ord. 988. (Ord. 667 § 10, 1982).

13.08.110 Private disposal system – Operation and management.

The owner shall operate and maintain the private sewage facilities in a sanitary manner at all times, at no expense to the city. (Ord. 667 § 11, 1982).

13.08.120 Connections – Permit required.

No unauthorized person shall uncover, make any connection with or opening into, use, alter or disturb any public sewer or appurtenance thereof, without first obtaining a written permit from the utility superintendent. (Ord. 667 § 12, 1982).

13.08.130 Installation and connections – Property owner responsibility.

All costs and expenses incident to the installation and connection of the building sewer shall be borne by the owner, including a cleanout at the property line, which shall be required on all installations, and a backwater valve on all basement sanitary drains. (Ord. 667 § 13, 1982).

13.08.140 Separate sewer required for each building – Exceptions.

A separate and independent building sewer shall be provided for every building, except where approved by the public works director. However, in special situations, such as a school or a business complex, the number of connections may vary with approval of the public works director. The charges shall be the same as for separate hookups. (Ord. 1859 § 60, 2014; Ord. 667 § 14, 1982).

13.08.150 Old sewers – Conditions for use.

Old building sewers may be used in connection with new buildings only when they are approved by the public works director and meet all requirements of this chapter. (Ord. 1859 § 61, 2014; Ord. 667 § 15, 1982).

13.08.160 Materials – Approval required when.

The types of sewer materials permitted shall be approved by the public works director. (Ord. 1859 § 62, 2014; Ord. 667 § 16, 1982).

13.08.170 Cleanouts – Number required.

Not less than two cleanouts shall be provided for each side sewer and/or each total change of 45 degrees of grade or alignment; minimum cleanouts will be required at the connection of the side sewer to a riser on the public sewer and a cleanout outside of the building. (Ord. 667 § 17, 1982).

13.08.180 Cleanouts – Size and extension specifications.

Cleanouts shall be full side-sewer diameter and shall not be extended to a point not less than six inches nor more than 12 inches below the finished ground surface, and shall be plugged with a removable stopper which will prevent passage of dirt or water. When specified, the property owner shall install an approved meter box set to finish grade which will provide ready access to the cleanout stopper. (Ord. 667 § 18, 1982).

13.08.190 Cleanouts – Placement.

Cleanouts shall be placed at intervals of not more than 100 feet in straight runs. Cleanouts in the line shall utilize a 45-degree wye branch at the side sewer. (Ord. 667 § 19, 1982).

13.08.200 Pipe connections – Diameter – Maintenance and repair.

Side sewers, as defined in FMC 13.09.010 as amended, shall not be less than four inches in diameter for residential and six inches for all other connections, unless otherwise approved by the public works director. The owner of the property served by the side sewer shall be responsible for the maintenance and repair of the side sewer. (Ord. 1702 § 1, 2009; Ord. 667 § 20, 1982).

13.08.210 Water supply lines separate from sewer lines.

All sanitary sewer lines shall be separated at least 10 feet horizontally from any water line unless approved by the public works director. (Ord. 1859 § 63, 2014; Ord. 671 § 1, 1982; Ord. 667 § 21, 1982).

13.08.220 Building sewer – Size and slope.

The size and slope of the building sewer shall be subject to the approval of the public works director but in no event shall the diameter be less than four inches. The slope of such four-inch pipe shall not be less than three percent grade, unless approved by the public works director. (Ord. 1859 § 64, 2014; Ord. 667 § 22, 1982).

13.08.230 Building sewer – Location and installation.

No building sewer shall be laid parallel to or within three feet of any bearing wall, which might thereby be weakened. The depth shall be sufficient to afford protection from frost. The building sewer shall be laid at uniform grade and in straight alignment insofar as possible. Changes in direction shall be made only with properly curved pipe and fittings. (Ord. 667 § 23, 1982).

13.08.240 Building sewer – Sewage lifted by artificial means when.

In all buildings in which any building drain is too low to permit gravity flow to the public sewer, sanitary sewage carried by such drain shall be lifted by approved artificial means and discharged to the building sewer. (Ord. 667 § 24, 1982).

13.08.250 Building sewer – Excavations – Pipe and backfill requirements.

All excavations required for the installation of a building sewer shall be open-trench work, unless otherwise approved by the public works director. Pipe laying and backfill shall be performed in accordance with the requirements of the city. No backfill shall be placed until the work has been inspected. (Ord. 1859 § 65, 2014; Ord. 667 § 25, 1982).

13.08.260 Building sewer – Joints and connections to be made gastight and watertight.

All joints and connections shall be made gastight and watertight. (Ord. 667 § 26, 1982).

13.08.270 Building sewer – Inspection and connection.

The applicant for the building sewer permit shall notify the public works director when the building sewer is ready for inspection and connection to the public sewer. The connection shall be made under the supervision of the public works director or his representative. (Ord. 1859 § 66, 2014; Ord. 667 § 27, 1982).

13.08.280 Building sewer – Excavations – Safeguarding – Restoration of surface.

All excavations for building sewer installations shall be adequately guarded with barricades and lights so as to protect the public from hazard. Streets, sidewalks, parkways and other public property disturbed in the course of the work shall be restored in a manner satisfactory to the city. (Ord. 667 § 28, 1982).

13.08.290 Discharging unpolluted waters into system prohibited.

No person shall discharge or cause to be discharged any stormwater, surface water, groundwater, roof runoff, subsurface drainage, cooling water or unpolluted industrial process waters to any sanitary sewer. (Ord. 667 § 29, 1982).

13.08.300 Stormwater and unpolluted drainage.

Stormwater and all other unpolluted drainage shall be discharged to such sewers as are specifically designated as storm sewers, or to a natural outlet approved by the public works director. Industrial cooling water or unpolluted process waters may be discharged, upon approval of the public works director, to a storm sewer or natural outlet. (Ord. 1859 § 67, 2014; Ord. 667 § 30, 1982).

13.08.310 Matter excluded from all sewers designated.

Sewage, waste or any matter having the following characteristics, shall, under no conditions, be discharged into, be placed where they might find their way into, or be allowed to run, leak or escape into any part of the sewer system:

A. Ashes, cinders, sand, earth, gravel, coal, rubbish or any matter which is chemically or physically stable for at least five days at 20 degrees centigrade, or which would form a deposit or obstruction, or damage or reduce the capacity of the sewer into which it was placed;

B. Flammable, explosive or poisonous liquids, gases or solids or any matter which after entrance into a sewer might reasonably be expected to form in any way such flammable, explosive or poisonous liquids, gases or solids;

C. Matter of any nature at a temperature above 100 degrees Fahrenheit;

D. Liquid matter of any nature containing suspended solids in excess of 1,000 parts per million;

E. Matter of any nature containing five-day biochemical oxygen demand in excess of 300 parts per million;

F. Animal or vegetable greases, oils or matter containing animal or vegetable grease or oil of any nature, in excess of 300 parts per million, or any petroleum products;

G. Liquid matter with a hydrogen ion concentration below five and five-tenths or above nine and zero-tenths;

H. Any matter that may be prohibited by the city of Tacoma sewage treatment agreement;

I. Any matter which, in the opinion of the public works director, might interfere with the satisfactory operation of any treatment plants or any portion of the sewer system; provided, however, with the written approval of the public works director being first obtained, sewage, wastes or other matter herein excluded may be discharged into the sewage system upon the payment to the city of the additional costs for processing the same as hereinafter provided and set forth;

J. Garbage disposal units are prohibited except in single-family and multifamily residential living units. (Ord. 1859 § 68, 2014; Ord. 679 § 2, 1982; Ord. 667 § 31, 1982).

13.08.320 Surface drainage – Water excluded from sanitary sewers.

In addition, all surface drainage-water shall be excluded from all parts of the sewer system designated as the sanitary sewer system. (Ord. 667 § 32, 1982).

13.08.330 Inspection of sewers and attachments – Notices.

The public works director or employees of the city, bearing proper credentials, shall have the right to request permission for entrance to any premises at all reasonable hours to ascertain whether the provisions of the ordinances of the city of Fife and the city of Tacoma relative to sewage have been complied with. If permission is denied, the employee shall have recourse to the Fife municipal court to seek an administrative search warrant for granting entry. Neither permission nor warrant are necessary if a public safety emergency justifies entry. If the sewer or its attachments are in conflict with the provision of any law or ordinance in regard thereto, the owner of the premises, or his agent, shall be notified to cause the sewer or its attachments to be so altered, repaired or reconstructed as to make them conform to the requirements of the laws and ordinances within 15 days from the date of receipt of such notice. (Ord. 1859 § 69, 2014; Ord. 1805 § 3, 2012; Ord. 667 § 33, 1982).

13.08.340 Sewer waste tests permitted when – Obstruction of officer while testing unlawful.

The public works director or other employees of the city, or a representative of the city of Tacoma sewer department, bearing proper credentials and identification, shall be permitted to request permission for entrance to any and all premises at all reasonable times for the purpose of inspection, observation, measurement, sampling and testing of sewage waste in accordance with the provisions of this chapter; and it is unlawful for any person to obstruct or interfere with any such officer or employee while so engaged. If permission is denied, the employee shall have recourse to the Fife municipal court to seek an administrative search warrant for granting entry. Neither permission nor warrant are necessary if a public safety emergency justifies entry. (Ord. 1859 § 70, 2014; Ord. 1805 § 4, 2012; Ord. 667 § 34, 1982).

13.08.350 Discharging septic tank waste into system prohibited.

It is unlawful for anyone to discharge the contents of any septic tank, cesspool or chemical toilet into the sewer system of the city. (Ord. 667 § 35, 1982).

13.08.360 Determination of character of waste matter required before discharge.

Before any matter of any nature may be discharged into the sewer system, which discharge might reasonably be considered a violation of this chapter, the controlling characteristic of such matter shall be determined to the satisfaction of the public works director and the city of Tacoma sewer department. The responsibility of initiating such determination, the costs involved, and of submitting the determination, the costs involved, and of submitting the results of the determination for approval, lie solely with the party or parties desiring to discharge the matter into the sewer system. Verification of these results and the decision as to whether or not a permit shall be issued shall be the responsibility of the public works director. The fact that any matter has been discharged into the sewer system prior to the passage of the ordinance codified in this chapter or subsequent thereto, without objection, does not constitute a valid right to so discharge such matter. Upon discovery by the public works director that any matter being discharged into the sewer does not conform to the requirements of this chapter, the public works director may immediately stop the discharge of such matter into the sewer system. (Ord. 1859 § 71, 2014; Ord. 667 § 36, 1982).

13.08.370 Pretreatment of sewage.

When at the time it becomes necessary or desirable to discharge into the sewer system any matter from any source which does not conform to the requirements previously outlined, it is required that before such matter may be discharged into the sewer system, the producer thereof shall pretreat the same at his own expense to a degree that will produce an effluent which does conform to the requirements. Such pretreatment plans shall be understood to include grease traps, chemical or biochemical plants, sedimentation chambers and any other devices which effect a change of any nature in the characteristics of the matter being treated. Any and all such devices and equipment shall be subject to the approval of the public works director, shall not be put into operation without a written permit of approval issued by the public works director, shall be provided with all necessary features of construction to permit inspection of operations and testing of material passing through them, and shall be open to the inspection of the public works director at any time; provided, however, that the producer, in lieu of the treatment of the sewage, as hereinabove provided for, may, with the written approval of the public works director being first obtained, discharge the sewage, waste or other matter into the sewage system, and be subject to the payment of the additional cost of the treatment thereof. “Industrial users,” as defined in FMC 13.11.040, are subject to the provisions of Chapter 13.11 FMC. If there is any conflict between this section and the provisions of Chapter 13.11 FMC, the provisions of Chapter 13.11 FMC shall prevail. (Ord. 2082 § 3, 2022; Ord. 1859 § 72, 2014; Ord. 667 § 37, 1982).

13.08.380 Grease, oil and sand interceptors – Required when – Specifications.

A. Grease, oil and sand interceptors shall be provided when, in the opinion of the administrative authority, the building official, they are necessary for the proper handling of liquid wastes containing grease in excessive amounts or any flammable wastes, sand and other harmful ingredients. All interceptors shall be in compliance with the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials Uniform Plumbing Code, the edition currently adopted by reference by the city and in effect at said time, and shall be located as to be readily and easily accessible for cleaning and inspection.

B. Grease and oil interceptors shall be constructed of impervious materials capable of withstanding abrupt and extreme changes in temperature. They shall be of substantial construction, watertight and equipped with easily removable covers which, when bolted in place, shall be gastight and watertight.

C. “Industrial users,” as defined in FMC 13.11.040, are subject to the provisions of Chapter 13.11 FMC. If there is any conflict between this section and the provisions of Chapter 13.11 FMC, the provisions of Chapter 13.11 FMC shall prevail. (Ord. 2082 § 4, 2022; Ord. 888 § 1, 1986; Ord. 667 § 38, 1982).

13.08.390 Maintenance of interceptors.

Where installed, all grease, oil and sand interceptors shall be maintained by the owner, at the owner’s expense, in continuously efficient operation at all times and subject to inspection as required by the public works director. In the event the owner fails to properly maintain the interceptor, which in the opinion of the public works director causes clogging of the sewer lines and/or pump stations, the cost of the city, time and material in cleaning the sewer lines and/or pump stations shall be charged to the owner of the interceptor. For the purpose of this section, the owner shall be the person, firm or corporation named on the sewer account, as provided in FMC 13.08.470. Any costs not paid by the owner within 30 days from the date of the billing shall be added to and become part of the sewer bill and shall become a lien against the real property, as provided by FMC 13.08.490. “Industrial users,” as defined in FMC 13.11.040, are subject to the provisions of Chapter 13.11 FMC. If there is any conflict between this section and the provisions of Chapter 13.11 FMC, the provisions of Chapter 13.11 FMC shall prevail. (Ord. 2082 § 5, 2022; Ord. 1859 § 73, 2014; Ord. 725 § 1, 1983; Ord. 667 § 39, 1982).

13.08.400 Maintenance of preliminary treatment facilities.

Where preliminary treatment facilities are provided for any waters or wastes, they shall be maintained continuously in satisfactory and effective operation by the owner at the owner’s expense and subject to inspection as required by the public works director. “Industrial users,” as defined in FMC 13.11.040, are subject to the provisions of Chapter 13.11 FMC. If there is any conflict between this section and the provisions of Chapter 13.11 FMC, the provisions of Chapter 13.11 FMC shall prevail. (Ord. 2082 § 6, 2022; Ord. 1859 § 74, 2014; Ord. 667 § 40, 1982).

13.08.410 Manhole required when – Installation – Maintenance.

When required by the public works director, the owner of any property served by a building sewer carrying industrial wastes shall install a suitable control manhole in the building sewer to facilitate observation, sampling and measurement of the wastes. Such manhole, when required, shall be accessible and safely located, and shall be constructed in accordance with plans approved by the public works director. The manhole shall be installed by the owner at his expense, and shall be maintained by him so as to be safe and accessible at all times. (Ord. 1859 § 75, 2014; Ord. 667 § 41, 1982).

13.08.420 Measurements, tests and analyses.

All measurements, tests and analyses of the characteristics of the waters and wastes to which reference is made in FMC 13.08.310, 13.08.340 and 13.08.360 shall be in accordance with the city of Tacoma sewerage standards and shall be determined at the control manhole provided for in FMC 13.08.410 or upon suitable samples taken in the control manhole. In the event that no special manhole has been required, the control manhole shall be considered to be the nearest downstream manhole in the public sewer to the point at which the building sewer is connected. (Ord. 667 § 42, 1982).

13.08.430 Special agreements with industrial concerns not prevented.

No statement contained in this chapter shall be construed as preventing any special agreement or arrangement between the city of Fife, the city of Tacoma and any industrial concern whereby an industrial waste of unusual strength or character may be accepted by the city for treatment, subject to payment therefor by the industrial concern. (Ord. 667 § 43, 1982).

13.08.440 Damaging or tampering with system prohibited.

No unauthorized person shall maliciously, wilfully or negligently break, damage, destroy, uncover, deface or tamper with any structure, appurtenance or equipment which is a part of the municipal sewage works. (Ord. 667 § 44, 1982).

13.08.450 Administration.

This chapter shall be administered by the public works director. (Ord. 1859 § 76, 2014; Ord. 667 § 45, 1982).

13.08.460 Sewer permits – Connection and inspection fees.

A. An application for a permit to connect to the city sewer system shall be made to the public works director. Such application shall be made by the owner of the property to which the sewer service is to be provided. The applicant shall state fully and truly the purposes for which the permit is required, and must agree to conform to all rules and regulations thereof that may be made and established from time to time, and conditions for connection to and service of the sewer system. Every connection to the sewer system of the city shall be required to pay connection and inspection fees as set forth in the current fee schedule.

The current fee schedule relating to this section of the Fife Municipal Code is available at Fife City Hall and at the city of Fife’s website: www.cityoffife.org.

B. In addition to the connection/inspection fees, there may also be assessments for latecomer agreements, LIDs, ULIDs or other assessments of record levied against the property.

C. All connection fees are payable to the finance director-treasurer prior to issuance of the permit.

D. All connections and any repairs or any work requiring excavation in the streets and other thoroughfares of the city shall be done by employees of the city or by bonded contractors, as determined and directed by the public works director, or his authorized representative. All costs associated with a side sewer connection shall be borne by the property owner.

E. Any person, firm or corporation desiring to construct any new or replacement sewer lines which are to be constructed by anyone other than the city shall first submit a plan for said construction to the public works department. Payment for plan review and processing costs as required in FMC 3.80.010(B) shall be made prior to issuance of the associated sewer permit. To assure that an as-built plan is submitted for the city records and approved by the public works department, the water meter shall be secured in the off position and remain that way until the as-built plan is received and approved. Plan review and inspection fees shall not be applicable to repair work but shall apply only to new construction.

F. Before connecting such pipe with the municipal sewer system, the property owner to be serviced by such extension shall execute a bill of sale to the city for the sewer main and appurtenances together with an easement, if required by the city, for the sewer main and appurtenances. (Ord. 1783 § 1 (Exh. A), 2012; Ord. 1746 § 1 (Exh. A), 2011; Ord. 1416 § 2, 2000; Ord. 1366 § 4, 1999; Ord. 874 § 1, 1986; Ord. 779 § 1, 1984; Ord. 667 § 46, 1982).

13.08.465 Sanitary sewer capital facility charges.

A. Prior to connecting to the city’s sanitary sewer system, the property owner shall pay, in addition to other applicable charges, a general facility charge equal to $4,015 per equivalent residential unit (ERU).

B. An ERU for this purpose is 230 gallons per day for nonresidential connections. An ERU for residential connections is one single-family house, apartment unit, condominium unit, or townhouse unit.

C. If after connection of a nonresidential service the actual sewer usage has increased or the property use expanded so that there is a greater number of ERUs being used on the property than for which the general facility charge was paid, the property owner shall pay to the city an additional general facility charge based upon the new or expanded use. The additional general facility charge shall be based upon the general facility charge rate in effect at the time the increased use is requested and/or detected, whichever first occurs.

D. A credit against the general facility charges may be applied for those property owners that pay final assessments through a local improvement district formed by the city council where such local improvement district is formed to finance the construction of any of the improvements that are a basis for calculating the value of the general facility charge. The credit shall be equal to the amount of property owner’s final assessments, not including interest.

The credit shall be applied at the time of payment of the general facility charge and shall not be used to reduce any assessments in the local improvement district. Credits to the general facility charge shall not be applicable to: (1) local improvement districts finalized prior to the effective date of the first ordinance that established a general facility charge and was codified in this section; or (2) omitted properties for a local improvement district formed after the effective date of the first ordinance that established a general facility charge and was codified in this section. Omitted properties are properties benefited by the improvements constructed in the local improvement district but for which the property was not included in the local improvement district at the time of its formation.

E. Public property owners that pay final assessments through a local improvement district formed by the city council where such local improvement district is formed to finance the construction of any of the improvements that are a basis for calculating the value of the general facility charge may obtain a credit against general facilities charges at such time as the property is put to actual use for highway purposes, if the property has not connected to the city’s sanitary sewer system. For purposes of this subsection, “actual use” shall mean commencement of state highway construction on the property, and “state highway” shall mean a highway that is both designated as a state highway pursuant to RCW 47.24.010 as amended, and classified as an urban principal arterial or higher classification in the federal classification system. The credit shall be the smaller of the local improvement district assessment for the property and the designated general facilities charge (“DGFC”) calculated as follows:

(ERUs/Acre for zoning classification) x (Number of Acres*) x (GFC rate at time of commencement of actual use for highway purposes) = DGFC

*If the local improvement district assessment were calculated based on buildable acres, then the number of acres used for the calculation shall be the number of buildable acres for the property set forth in the final assessment roll.

The ERUs/acre under this subsection for each zoning classification are as follows:

1.	Single-Family Residential:	3.5 ERU/Acre
2.	Small Lot Residential:	8 ERU/Acre
3.	Medium Density Residential:	11 ERU/Acre
4.	High Density Residential:	12 ERU/Acre
5.	Neighborhood Residential:	6 ERU/Acre
6.	Neighborhood Commercial:	6 ERU/Acre
7.	Community Commercial:	4 ERU/Acre
8.	Community Mixed Use:	12 ERU/Acre
9.	Regional Commercial:	8 ERU/Acre
10.	Business Park:	8 ERU/Acre
11.	Industrial:	2 ERU/Acre

A public property owner seeking credit under this subsection shall file a written request to the public works director together with proof that the property is in actual use for highway purposes. Upon determination by the director that the requirements for credit under this subsection have been met, the director shall set forth in writing the amount of the general facilities charge credit for the property based on the above formula and the zoning classification of the property at the time of commencement of actual use for highway purposes.

The general facilities charge credit under this subsection is transferable in whole or in part and may be applied to then-applicable sanitary sewer general facilities charges imposed in accordance with this chapter, as amended, on any future development or redevelopment within the city of Fife. Any transfer of general facilities charge credit to another property shall be in writing, shall be signed by the city solely to confirm the actual amount of the credit available and transferred, and shall include the reservation of rights set forth below in this subsection. If a property obtains general facilities charge credit under this subsection, it shall be ineligible for the credit under subsection (D) of this section.

Nothing herein shall prevent or impede the city from amending or repealing any provisions of the Fife Municipal Code regarding sanitary sewer general facilities charges. In the event the city no longer imposes sewer general facilities charges, any outstanding general facilities charge credit under this subsection shall have no value, and the owner of such credit shall have no claim or recourse against the city.

The credit shall be applied at the time of payment of the water general facility charge and shall not be used to reduce any assessments in the local improvement district. Credits to the general facility charge under this subsection are only available for property paying final assessments in local improvement districts formed after 2007.

F. A credit against the general facility charge may be applied for those property owners that construct at their own expense any of the improvements that are a basis for calculating the value of the general facility charge or for those property owners that pay a latecomer’s fee toward those same improvements. The credit shall be the smaller of the following:

1. That portion of the design and construction costs or latecomer’s fees that is directly applicable to the construction of the improvements that are a basis for the value of the general facility charge; or

2. That proportionate amount of the general facility charge that is attributable to the sewer facilities either constructed by the property owner or paid through a latecomer’s fee.

The credit shall be applied at the time of payment of the general facility charge and shall not be used to reduce any latecomer’s fees. Credits to the general facility charge shall not be applicable to facilities constructed or latecomer’s fees established prior to the effective date of the ordinance establishing this general facility charge.

G. Any property within the city limits which is north of Interstate Highway 5 and is required to connect to the Pierce County sewer transmission lines shall be exempt from the general facility charge imposed by this section. In lieu of the general facility charge, the property owner will pay a special facility charge based upon the pro rata cost of construction of city sewer lines, if any, connecting the property to the Pierce County transmission lines. The special facility charge shall not apply to connecting lines paid for by the property owner. The public works director shall base the special facility charge upon the anticipated flow from the property owner’s property as compared to the anticipated flow at total buildout for the city connecting lines. The special facility charge, if any, will be paid prior to connecting to the city system.

H. Any single-family residence existing in the city on December 18, 2002, and desiring to connect to the city’s sanitary sewer system is exempt from paying this general facility charge for a period of six months from the date connection to the city’s sanitary sewer system becomes available to the property.

I. Any lots that were platted and zoned as “single-family residential” and existing in the city on December 18, 2002, and desiring to connect to the city’s sanitary sewer system are exempt from paying this general facility charge for a period of six months from the date connection to the city’s sanitary sewer system becomes available to the property. For such lots that are unimproved when sanitary sewer becomes available, the six-month time period shall begin to run when a permit has been issued for new construction.

J. Any sanitary sewer service that has been legally hooked up to the city’s system shall be deemed to vest the property on which such service exists for sanitary sewer general facility charges equal to the number of ERUs provided under this section; provided, that a sewer bill is paid for such service for at least four months of each rolling 12-month period and the account is no more than six months in arrears. The required four months’ payment shall be due regardless of whether the sanitary sewer service is used, and shall be calculated at the minimum current rate for the service size if not used. If less than four months’ sanitary sewer service bills have been paid in a given rolling 12-month period, or the account is more than six months in arrears, the rights to sanitary sewer service shall be forfeited, the service disconnected, and service not restored until after payment of new sanitary sewer general facility charges, connection fees, and other fees at the rates then in effect. The finance director-treasurer shall review utility account records after the end of each billing period and shall twice notify any property owner subject to forfeiture of sanitary sewer service rights under this section, allowing at least 30 days after the first such notice and seven days after the second such notice before declaring the service forfeited. Once notice has been mailed, all fees must be paid in full or the service forfeiture will proceed as scheduled.

K. Any rights to sanitary sewer service vested under this section shall run with the property. Such rights may offset general facility charges applied to development or redevelopment of the property or to the property and contiguous adjoining properties developed or redeveloped under a single plan with unified permits. Such rights may not be otherwise transferred.

L. The finance director-treasurer shall cause to be recorded with the Pierce County auditor a notice declaring the forfeiture of the service right, and that any new service will be subject to the city codes, regulations and fee schedules in effect at the time sewer service is requested. (Ord. 1814 § 2, 2012; Ord. 1746 § 1 (Exh. A), 2011; Ord. 1526-04 §§ 1, 2, 2004; Ord. 1492-03 § 1, 2003; Ord. 1479-03 § 2, 2003; Ord. 1479 §§ 2, 3, 2002; Ord. 1416 § 1, 2000; Ord. 1392 § 1, 2000; Ord. 1380 § 1, 2000; Ord. 1365 § 2, 1999; Ord. 1342 § 1, 1999).

13.08.468 Pierce County surcharge.

Prior to allowing a connection to the city’s sanitary sewer system, the property owner shall pay, in addition to any applicable charges, the amount to be assessed, if any, by Pierce County to the city for the use of any Pierce County facilities directly attributable to the property that is seeking connection to the system. (Ord. 1336 § 1, 1999).

13.08.470 Sewer account.

All accounts for sewer service shall be kept in the name of the property owner and all charges shall be made against the property as well as the owner thereof. No change of ownership or occupancy shall affect the application of this section. It shall be the responsibility of the owner to notify the city upon change of ownership. (Ord. 667 § 47, 1982).

13.08.475 Security deposits.

At the time of application for sewer service to premises not receiving water service from the city, the city may require that the applicant requesting service deposit with the city a sum of money equal to two times the total average monthly sewer utility bill for the premises, to secure payment for sewer service. This provision does not in any way affect the property owner’s liability for charges or the lien rights of the city against the premises to which the services are furnished as provided in FMC 13.08.490. Security deposits shall not accrue interest. (Ord. 1840 § 1, 2013).

13.08.480 Sewer bills – When due – Penalty.

The billing date shall be the last calendar day of February, April, June, August, October, and December of each year. Sewer bills are due and payable on the last calendar day of the month following the applicable billing date (“due date”). A sewer bill is considered delinquent if not paid in full by the applicable due date. A penalty of $10.00, or 10 percent of the sewer bill amount, whichever is greater, shall be assessed on all delinquent accounts on the fifth calendar day after the account becomes delinquent (“penalty date”). However, when the penalty date is a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, the penalty shall not be assessed if the full payment is received by the next succeeding business day. The finance director is authorized to waive all or any portion of the penalties if the finance director determines that late payment was the result of excusable neglect or extreme hardship. (Ord. 2012 § 2, 2019; Ord. 1578-06 § 3, 2006; Ord. 667 § 48, 1982).

13.08.490 Sewer bills – Enforcement of collections.

The sewer system of the city having been incorporated into and made a part of the water system of the city, the enforcement of collections of all rates and charges set forth in this chapter, is the same as for the rates and charges for water consumption, including the cutting off of water service to force payment of sewerage charges, as provided by the laws of the state of Washington. In addition, the city shall have a lien for delinquent sewerage charges on the parcel to which such service has been furnished or is available, as provided in RCW 35.67.200 and 35.67.210, except such lien shall be effective for a total not to exceed one year’s delinquent sewerage charges without the necessity of any writing or recording of the lien with the county auditor, as provided in RCW 35.67.215. (Ord. 1599-06 § 1, 2006; Ord. 667 § 49, 1982).

13.08.500 Water-sewer fund.

All revenues from sewer or water systems will remain in a water-sewer fund to discharge obligations or to finance expansions. (Ord. 667 § 50, 1982).

13.08.510 Sewer service – Schedule of rates.

A. Commencing July 1, 2010, every residence, building, plant or other structure to which sanitary sewer service is available, namely, property required to be connected to public sewers pursuant to ordinance, rules and regulations, whether or not a connection to the public sewers of the city has been made, shall be subject to the following monthly rates:

1. Residential: $42.01.

2. Commercial, stores, businesses, offices, hotels and motels, etc., connected to the water system of the city: $21.45 per commercial meter, plus $7.71 per 100 cubic feet of water used.

3. Commercial, stores, businesses, offices, hotels and motels, etc., not connected to the water system of the city: $115.52, zero to four employees; $145.61, five to seven employees; $291.24, eight to 12 employees; $401.83, 13 to 20 employees.

4. Apartments: $42.01 per unit. Newly constructed apartment buildings shall be charged for the number of units actually occupied for the first six months following the date of completion of construction. It shall be the duty of the owner of the apartment building to report to the city each month the number of units occupied the previous month. If the information is not received from the owner by the tenth of the following month, the full number of units shall be billed. After the expiration of the six-month period, the apartment shall be charged a monthly rate of $42.01 per month for all units, whether occupied or not.

5. Mobile homes, motels (residents): $42.01 per unit.

6. RV trailer parks: $42.01 per unit.

7. Service stations: $176.26 plus $32.98 for trailer dump service. Service stations with restaurants and/or convenience stores shall be charged at the commercial rate.

8. Group homes: $42.01 per dwelling.

9. Buildings/offices (with a master meter with multiple unmetered business within): $263.92, two to five businesses; $527.84, six to 10 businesses; $791.77, 11 to 15 businesses; $1,055.67, 16 to 20 businesses; $1,319.62, 21 to 25 businesses, or the commercial rate, whichever is greater. Buildings, office complexes and warehouses with minimal water usage shall be billed on available units, regardless of whether or not the units are occupied.

10. The sewer rate for newly constructed, unoccupied commercial buildings (stores, business offices, warehouses, etc.) which are connected to the city water system shall be $115.52 per month for each metered unit. Once occupied, the sewer charge shall be based on water usage, as computed by subsections (A)(2) and (3) of this section. It shall be the responsibility of the property owner to notify the city when a unit is occupied. Failure to notify the city shall result in a retroactive rate charge to the date of first occupancy.

B. Commencing January 1, 2015, the rates set forth in subsection (A) of this section shall increase 45 percent. Commencing January 1, 2016, and on the first day of January each successive year thereafter, all rates set forth in subsection (A) of this section shall be increased from the previous year in accordance with the following formula:

[Wholesale Costs as % of Total Costs] x [Wholesale Cost Increase] + [Other Operating Costs as % of Total Costs] x [Increase in Average Annual Consumer Price Index for Seattle (CPI-U: All Urban Consumers)] + [Rate-Funded Capital Costs as % of Total Costs] x [Increase in Average Annual Engineering News Record (ENR) Construction Cost Index for Seattle] = Indexed Rate Adjustment

The January 1, 2017, increase shall be the indexed rate adjustment percentage plus five percent.

The January 1, 2018, increase shall be the indexed rate adjustment percentage plus five percent.

The January 1, 2019, increase shall be the indexed rate adjustment percentage plus five percent.

The January 1, 2020, increase shall be the indexed rate adjustment percentage plus five percent.

The January 1, 2021, increase shall be the indexed rate adjustment percentage plus five percent.

The increase on the first day of January each successive year thereafter shall be the indexed rate adjustment percentage.

For purposes of this formula:

“Total Costs” shall consist of the following percentages:

Wholesale Costs	60.9%
Other Operating Costs	35.9%
Rate-Funded Capital Costs	3.2%
Total Costs	100.0%

“Wholesale Cost Increase” shall be the increase in the Tacoma wastewater treatment rate paid by the city over the previous year.

“Increase in Average Annual Consumer Price Index for Seattle (CPI-U: All Urban Consumers)” shall be measured for the 12-month period ending in June of the previous year as published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics.

“Increase in Average Annual Engineering News Record (ENR) Construction Cost Index for Seattle” shall be measured for the 12-month period ending in June of the previous year.

The city manager shall cause to be prepared a rate worksheet setting forth the future rate amounts for each of the categories set forth in subsection (A) of this section, based on the percentage increases set forth herein, and said worksheet shall be available to the public.

C. Where two or more classifications apply, the larger rate shall be charged.

D. Special or unusual situations may have rates established by contract. Special contracts require the approval of the city council.

E. All billings shall be on a monthly and/or bimonthly basis, including new connections.

F. Where it is evident that the customer disposes of the bulk of his water purchased from the city in a manner that does not affect the city’s sewer system, the finance director-treasurer shall determine the method used for calculation of the sewer rate.

G. Any surcharge costs billed to the city of Fife by the city of Tacoma shall be passed on and billed to the customer(s) of the city of Fife who is responsible for the surcharge cost, together with a 15 percent administrative fee.

H. Reduced Sewer Rates.

1. Upon application therefor, a 30 percent discount in any residential sewer rate set forth in this chapter shall be granted for any household occupied by low-income elderly senior or low-income disabled persons. In order to qualify as disabled under this section the applicant must receive funds from a disability program as a result of a disability that prevents them from working consistent with the equivalent of 42 U.S.C. Section 401 et seq. A household shall qualify for this discount if it is a single-family dwelling unit or an individually metered multi-dwelling unit, occupied by at least one person 62 years of age or older or one adult disabled person, and the total gross household income in either case is equal to or less than 70 percent of the median household income in Pierce County. A 50 percent water rate discount shall be granted for any household that meets the above eligibility criteria, when the total gross household income in either case is equal to or less than 50 percent of the median household income in Pierce County. Eligibility shall be certified by the city clerk. The city clerk may verify continued eligibility at any time after initial certification.

2. The city manager is authorized to promulgate reasonable rules and regulations to implement this section. (Ord. 2070 § 2, 2022; Ord. 1947 § 2, 2016; Ord. 1923 § 2, 2015; Ord. 1885 § 1, 2014; Ord. 1777 § 1 (Exh. A), 2012; Ord. 1746 § 1 (Exh. A), 2011; Ord. 1521-04 § 1, 2004; Ord. 1478 § 1, 2002; Ord. 1421 § 2, 2001; Ord. 1284 § 1, 1997; Ord. 1225 § 1, 1996; Ord. 1039 § 1, 1990; Ord. 895 § 1, 1986; Ord. 754 §§ 1, 2, 1984; Ord. 682 § 1, 1982; Ord. 667 § 51, 1982).

13.08.520 New sewer systems – Deadline for connection.

Repealed by Ord. 988. (Ord. 667 § 52, 1982).

13.08.530 Sewer main extensions – Plans and fees required when.

Whenever any developer desires to extend a sewer main at its expense, such developer shall, before securing a building permit, enter into a developer’s agreement in accordance with Chapter 13.12 FMC. Fees for permit review, processing, inspection and compliance review shall be as set forth in FMC 3.80.010. Plan review and processing fees shall be paid prior to issuing the associated sewer permit. Inspection and compliance review fees shall be paid prior to acceptance of the facilities by the city. (Ord. 1929 § 3, 2016; Ord. 1416 § 2, 2000; Ord. 1366 § 5, 1999; Ord. 667 § 53, 1982).

13.08.535 Sanitary sewer service to properties omitted from LID No. 98-2.

Repealed by Ord. 1507-03. (Ord. 1340 § 1, 1999).

13.08.537 Sanitary sewer connection fee surcharge.

A. In addition to all applicable general facility charges and connection charges, there shall be an additional surcharge paid prior to the time of connection to the city’s sanitary sewer system for improvements installed and paid for by the city that specially benefits the properties to which the surcharge shall apply.

B. The properties to which the surcharge shall apply are pictorially illustrated in Attachment A and listed in Attachment B to the ordinance codified in this section, along with the amount of the surcharge. (Ord. 1341 § 1, 1999).

13.08.540 Service outside city – Rates and charges.

A. Sewer service rates, fees, connection charges, permit fees and inspection fees for connections outside the corporate limits of the city shall be at the same rates, fees and charges as within the corporate limits of the city, plus a 50 percent surcharge, except the sewer service rates, fees, connection charges, permit fees and inspection fees for connections within the Edgewood sewer service area as established pursuant to interlocal agreement shall be at the same rates, fees and charges as within the corporate limits of the city, plus a 36 percent surcharge.

B. Before connection is made with the municipal sewer system, the property owner whose property is to be serviced by such extension shall execute a bill of sale to the city for the sewer main and appurtenances, and an easement, if required by the city, for the sewer main and appurtenances. (Ord. 2050 § 1, 2021; Ord. 2039 § 1, 2020; Ord. 1840 § 2, 2013; Ord. 927 § 1, 1987; Ord. 874 § 2, 1986; Ord. 667 § 54, 1982).

13.08.550 Failure to connect building sewer – City to perform work when – Costs.

In the event the building sewer and connection are not made within the time provided for in this chapter, following notice, the public works director is authorized and directed to cause the same to be made and to file a statement of the cost with the finance director-treasurer, and thereupon a warrant shall be issued under the direction of the city attorney against the water-sewer fund for the payment of such cost. The cost, together with a penalty of 15 percent thereof, plus interest at the rate of 18 percent per year upon the total amount of the cost and penalty, shall be assessed against the property upon which such building sewer and connection have not been placed as required, and shall become a lien thereon as provided in this chapter. Such total amount, when collected, shall be paid into the water-sewer fund. (Ord. 1859 § 77, 2014; Ord. 1746 § 1 (Exh. A), 2011; Ord. 667 § 55, 1982).

13.08.560 Advisory board created.

Repealed by Ord. 1746. (Ord. 895 § 2, 1986; Ord. 667 § 56, 1982).

13.08.570 Violation – Penalty – Additional remedies.

Any knowing violation of the provisions of this chapter or any knowing failure to comply with the requirements of this chapter or any of the provisions of any other ordinances of the city relating to sewer regulations shall be a misdemeanor and the water shall be turned off and remain so until the penalty and all other charges due are paid; provided, that the penalties shall not apply to violations of sections of the sewer ordinances of the city for which specific penalties have been provided. In addition thereto, any person, firm or corporation violating any of the provisions of this chapter shall be liable to the city for any expense, loss or damage occasioned by the city by reason of such violation. (Ord. 1777 § 1 (Exh. A), 2012; Ord. 842 § 14, 1986; Ord. 667 § 57, 1982).

13.08.580 Sewage works design standards.

All sewage works constructed within the city shall be designed in accordance with the latest edition of the Washington State Department of Ecology’s “Criteria For Sewage Works Design”; provided, if another section of this chapter imposes a more stringent standard, then the sewage works shall be designed to the more stringent standard. (Ord. 1324 § 1, 1998).