Utility accommodation permits and franchises
Find guidance, required forms and the tools for utilities to apply for an authorization for installation, operation, and maintenance of their infrastructure on the highway right of way.
Washington State law RCW 47.44 grants the authority to issue permits and franchises for utilities to occupy the highway right of way.
Utilities accommodation guide
The Utilities Accommodation Guide (PDF 1.42MB) contains links to the required forms, provides expectations and examples of submittals for utilities that apply to install, operate, and maintain their infrastructure on the highway right of way. All utilities must follow the requirements and have an approved accommodation before working on the highway right of way. Utilities are responsible for any additional requirements not covered in the guide for state and federal laws and regulations pertaining to utilities.
Utility accommodation policy
The WSDOT Utilities Accommodation Policy (PDF 1.97MB) provides the policy and standards required for authorized use of the highway right of way. Chapter 1 and Chapter 9 of the WSDOT Utilities Manual are included in the Utilities Accommodation Policy by reference.
Forms
Below you will find information and resources for utility permits and franchises.
Instructions for Utility Accommodation Application (Permit/Franchise) - Form 224-696: Application (PDF 888KB)
General Provisions for the Utility Accommodation Application - Form 224-696: General Provisions (PDF 177KB)
Utility Facility Description Instructions - Form 224-697: UFD (XLSX 230KB)
Application submittal contacts
Each region has a dedicated email inbox for submittals or other inquiries.
To find regional utility contacts in the applicable region, please see Utilities contacts.
- Eastern Region (Adams, Ferry, Lincoln, Pend Oreille, Spokane, Stevens, and Whitman counties)
- North Central Region (Chelan, Douglas, Grant, and Okanogan counties)
- Northwest Region (Island, King, San Juan, Skagit, Snohomish, and Whatcom counties)
- Olympic Region (Clallam, Grays Harbor, Jefferson, Kitsap, Mason, Pierce, and Thurston counties)
- South Central Region (Asotin, Benton, Columbia, Franklin, Garfield, Kittitas, Walla Walla, and Yakima counties)
- Southwest Region (Clark, Cowlitz, Klickitat, Lewis, Pacific, Skamania, and Wahkiakum counties)
Slow down on ice and snow.
It's easier to skid or lose control traveling at higher speeds. Give yourself more time to stop.
Carry chains, practice installing them.
Winter conditions could mean chains are required on your route. Practice putting them on your vehicle ahead of time.
Pack your winter car kit.
Carry extra supplies like warm clothing, ice scraper and brush, jumper cables and other emergency items.