Temporary suspension of the Free Coffee program
Additionally, the agency is temporarily suspending the Free Coffee Volunteer Program at all 37 participating rest areas throughout the state, beginning on Monday, March 16, until further notice. This is a continuation of efforts to slow the spread of the virus through social distancing, minimizing touch points and limiting close personal contact.

This program is very popular and benefits the public, participating volunteer groups and the WSDOT. For Safety Rest Areas with high volumes of visitors there is usually a list of groups waiting to participate and reservations for time slots may be arranged a year or more in advance. Other rest areas with fewer visitors may not have the "Free Coffee Program" or limit the times when free coffee may be served.

Free coffee program rules

1. Organizations must obtain a permit and reserve a time slot in advance.
2. Participants must be Non-profit Organizations and will be required to provide proof of status (State UBI number or Federal EIN number) and personal affiliation with the organization.
3. Permits are nontransferable.
4. This program is to be conducted for improving the safety of highway travel, not as an advertisement of any organization, special interest, or activity.
5. Refreshments offered are to be free of charge to the public. Donations are allowed and solicitations are prohibited.
6. Handouts or posting of printed material is prohibited. Cups may not carry advertising.
7. No pets allowed within coffee/refreshment serving enclosure.
8. The serving organization may have two (2) signs designating the organization. For example, "Free Coffee, Compliments of ____________________." Maximum size of these signs shall be 18"x24".
9. Violation of any rules may result in cancellation of future reservations for the offending organization.
10. Please contact the area maintenance office responsible for the Safety Rest Area you are interested in to find out about any additional rules and local requirements for obtaining permits and making reservations.

Free coffee program contacts