6.01.010 Definitions. For the purpose of all business license ordinances the words and phrases used herein, unless the context otherwise indicates, shall have the following meanings:

A. "Certificate" means any certificate or renewal of certificate issued pursuant to any business license ordinance;

B. "Director" means for taxicabs and for-hire drivers and vehicles the manager of the records and licensing services division, department of executive services or designee. For all other business licenses, permits or certificates, "director" means the manager of the department of local services, permitting division or designee;

C. "License" means any license or renewal of license issued pursuant to any business license ordinance;

D. "Licensee" means any person to whom a license or renewal of license has been issued pursuant to any business license ordinance;

E. "Permit" means any permit or renewal of permit issued pursuant to any business license ordinance;

F. "Person" means any individual, partnership, firm, joint stock company, corporation, association, trust, estate or other legal entity;

G. "Registrant" means any person to whom a registration or renewal of registration has been issued pursuant to any business license ordinance;

H. "Registration" means any registration or renewal of registration issued pursuant to any business license ordinance. (Ord. 18791 § 44, 2018: Ord. 18728 § 1, 2018: Ord. 17420 § 10, 2012: Ord. 15971 § 46, 2007: Ord. 14199 § 114, 2001: Ord. 1888 Art. I § 2, 1974).

6.01.030 Additional rules and regulations. The director is authorized to make and enforce rules and regulations, not inconsistent with any business license ordinance, and it is unlawful to violate or fail to comply with any of the rules and regulations. All such rules and regulations as promulgated by the director shall be reduced to writing and mailed to each licensee or permit holder. The licensee or permittee shall distribute such rules and regulations to the licensee or permit holder's registrants or employees. (Ord. 18728 § 2, 2018: Ord. 1888 Art. I. § 4, 1974).

6.01.040 Authority to suspend or revoke licenses, registration or permits. The director shall have the right to suspend or revoke any business license, registration or permit issued upon a showing of violation of any of the provisions of any business license ordinance; provided, however, that such suspension or revocation shall not relieve the licensee, registrant or permit holder of the other penalties otherwise provided for in any business license ordinance. (Ord. 1888 Art. V § 1, 1974: Ord. 997 § 1, 1971).

II. LICENSING PROVISIONS

6.01.050 License, registration or permit fee ‑ refunds. Any application or issuance or renewal of a license, registration or permit pursuant to any business license ordinance shall not be accepted by the director unless accompanied by the appropriate license, registration or permit fee. In the event an application for a license, registration or permit fee is refused, the amount tendered as the license, registration or permit fee shall not be returned to the applicant but shall go to the county to defray the cost of examination or investigation, or both; provided, however, that this section shall not apply to the fee paid for a novelty amusement device operator's license. (Ord. 1888 Art. II § 1, 1974).

6.01.060 Form of license, registration, permit or certificate. All licenses, registrations, permits or certificates, issued pursuant to any business license ordinance, shall be in a form prescribed by the director. (Ord. 1888 Art. II § 2, 1974).

6.01.070 Posting of license, registration, permit or certificate. Any license, registration, permit or certificate, issued pursuant to any business license ordinance, shall be posted in a conspicuous place in the place of business of the licensee, registrant, permit or certificate holder. (Ord. 1888 Art. II § 3, 1974).

6.01.080 Change of address. Any person licensed, registered or permitted pursuant to any business license ordinance shall notify the director of any change in address or business name, or in the officers, directors or partners of the person, within fourteen days of any such change. (Ord. 18728 § 3, 2018: Ord. 1888 Art. II § 4, 1974).

6.01.090 License, registration, permit or certificate not an endorsement. No license, registration, permit or certificate, issued pursuant to any business license ordinance, shall be an endorsement of such business licensed, registered, permitted or certificated under any business license ordinance. (Ord. 1888 Art. II § 5, 1974).

6.01.100 Enforcement agreements with other municipalities. The director is authorized to enter into agreements with any or all other municipal corporations in King County for the licensing and enforcement of local ordinances relating to businesses or entertainments licensed, registered or permitted pursuant to any business license ordinance; provided, that any municipal corporation entering into such an agreement shall enact an ordinance substantially similar to the applicable King County business license ordinance. (Ord. 1888 Art. II § 6, 1974).

III. ENFORCEMENT, PROCEDURE AND

PENALTY PROVISIONS

6.01.110 Inspections - right of entry.

A. The director is authorized to make such inspections and take such action as may be required to enforce any business license ordinance.

B. Whenever necessary to make an inspection to enforce any of the provisions of any business license ordinance, or whenever the director has reasonable cause to believe that a licensee, registrant or permit holder is operating in violation of any business license ordinance, the director may enter such licensee's, registrant's or permit holder's place of business or entertainment, which is licensed, registered or permitted pursuant to any business license ordinance, at all reasonable times to inspect the same or perform any duty imposed on the director by any business license ordinance; provided, that, 1. if the place of business or entertainment is occupied, the director shall first present proper credentials and demand entry; and 2. if the place of business or entertainment is unoccupied, the director shall first make a reasonable effort to locate the licensee, registrant or permit holder or other person or persons having charge or control of the place of business or entertainment and demand entry.

C. No person shall fail or neglect, after proper demand, to admit the director, while acting within the scope of the director's employment, to any place of business or entertainment licensed, registered or permitted pursuant to any business license ordinance, or to interfere with the director while in the performance of the director's duty. (Ord. 18728 § 4, 2018: Ord. 1888 Art. III § 1, 1974).

6.01.120 Duties of the director. The director is authorized and directed to enforce the terms and provisions of all business license ordinances. If it is determined, by means of investigation or inspection, that any person has violated or failed to comply with any provision of any business license ordinance, then the director shall issue a notice and order recording such findings, specifying therein the particulars of any such violation or failure to comply. (Ord. 1888 Art. III § 2, 1974).

6.01.130 Notice and order.

A. The director shall issue a notice and order, pursuant to K.C.C. 6.01.120, directed to the person whom the director has determined to be in violation of any of the terms and provisions of any business license ordinance. The notice and order shall contain:

1. The street address, when available, and a legal description sufficient for identification of the premises upon which the violation occurred;

2. A statement that the director has found the conduct of the person to be in violation of any business license ordinance, with a brief and concise description of the conditions found to render the person in violation of the business license ordinance;

3. A statement of any action required to be taken as determined by the director. If the director has determined to assess a civil penalty, the order shall require that the penalty shall be paid within a time certain from the date of the order as determined by the director to be reasonable;

4. A statement of any action taken by the director; and

5. Statements advising that:

a.(1) the person may appeal from the notice and order of any action of the director arising under K.C.C. chapter 6.64, for-hire transportation, to the office of the hearing examiner in accordance with K.C.C. 20.22.080; or

(2) the person may appeal from the notice and order any action of the director, other than those arising under K.C.C. chapter 6.64, to the office of the hearing examiner, but only if the appeal is made in writing as provided in this chapter and filed with the director within seven days from the date of service of such notice and order;

b. the failure to appeal will constitute a waiver of all right to an administrative hearing and determination of the matter.

B. The notice and order, and any amended or supplemental notice and order, shall be served upon the person either personally or by mailing a copy of the notice and order by certified mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested to the person at the person’s address as it appears on the license, registration or permit. Service by certified mail in the manner provided in this section shall be effective on the date of mailing.

C. Proof of service of the notice and order shall be made at the time of service by a written declaration under penalty of perjury executed by the person effecting service, declaring the time, date, and manner in which service was made. (Ord. 18230 § 78, 2016: Ord. 1888 Art. III § 3, 1974).

6.01.140 Civil penalty. In addition to or as an alternative to any other penalty provided herein or by law any person who violates any provision of any business license ordinance shall be subject to a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars per violation to be directly assessed by the director. The director, in a reasonable manner, may vary the amount of the penalty assessed to consider the appropriateness of the penalty to the size of the business of the violator; the license, registration or permit fee required of the violator; the gravity of the violation; the number of past and present violations committed and the good faith of the violator in attempting to achieve compliance after notification of the violation. All civil penalties assessed will be enforced and collected in accordance with the procedure specified in this chapter. (Ord. 1888 Art. III § 4, 1974).

6.01.150 Appeals.

A. The office of the hearing examiner is designated to hear appeals by parties aggrieved by actions of the director pursuant to any business license ordinance. For appeals under K.C.C. chapter 6.65 the office of the hearing examiner is designated to hear such appeals unless a different party is designated by the director. The examiner may adopt reasonable rules or regulations for conducting its business. Copies of all rules and regulations adopted by the examiner shall be delivered to the director, who shall make them freely accessible to the public. All decisions and findings of the examiner shall be rendered to the appellant in writing, with a copy to the director.

B. For-hire transportation appeals under K.C.C. chapter 6.64 and adult beverage businesses appeals under K.C.C. chapter 6.74 shall be filed in accordance with K.C.C. 20.22.080 and the hearing process conducted in accordance with K.C.C. chapter 20.22. Appeals under K.C.C. chapter 6.65 shall be filed in accordance with K.C.C. 6.65.450 and the hearing process conducted in accordance with that same section. Subsections C. through H. of this section do not apply to this subsection B.

C. Any person entitled to service under K.C.C. 6.01.130 may appeal any notice and order or any action of the director by filing at the office of the director within seven days from the date of service of such order, a written appeal containing;

1. A heading in the words: "Before the Office of the Hearing Examiner";

2. A caption reading: "Appeal of .........." giving the names of all appellants participating in the appeal;

3. A brief statement setting forth the legal interest of each of the appellants in the business or entertainment involved in the notice and order;

4. A brief statement in concise language of the specific order or action protested, together with any material facts claimed to support the contentions of the appellant;

5. A brief statement in concise language of the relief sought, and the reasons why it is claimed the protested order or action should be reversed, modified or otherwise set aside;

6. The signatures of all parties named as appellants, and their official mailing addresses; and

7. The verification (by declaration under penalty of perjury) of at least one appellant as to the truth of the matters stated in the appeal.

D. As soon as practicable after receiving the written appeal, the examiner shall fix a date, time and place for the hearing of the appeal. The date shall be neither less than ten days nor more than sixty days from the date the appeal was filed with the director. Written notice of the time and place of the hearing shall be given at least ten days before the date of the hearing to each appellant by the examiner either by causing a copy of the notice to be delivered to the appellant personally or by mailing a copy thereof, postage prepaid, addressed to the appellant at the appellant’s address shown on the appeal.

E. At the hearing the appellant shall be entitled to appear in person and be represented by counsel and offer such evidence as is pertinent and material to the action of the director.

F. Only those matters or issues specifically raised by the appellant in the written notice of appeal shall be considered in the hearing of the appeal.

G. Failure of any person to file an appeal in accordance with this section shall constitute a waiver of the person's right to an administrative hearing and adjudication of the notice and order, or any portion thereof.

H. Enforcement of any notice and order of the director shall be stayed during the pendency of an appeal therefrom that is properly and timely filed. (Ord. 19700 § 58, 2024: Ord. 19030 § 2, 2019: Ord. 18728 § 5, 2018: Ord. 18230 § 79, 2016: Ord. 1888 Art. III § 5, 1974).

6.01.160 Violations ‑ misdemeanor. Any person violating or failing to comply with any of the provisions of any business license ordinance shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punished by a fine in any sum not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars or by imprisonment in the King County jail for a period not to exceed ninety days.

(Ord. 1888 Art. III § 6, 1974).

6.01.170 Personal obligation. The civil penalty is a personal obligation of the licensee, registrant or permit holder. The prosecuting attorney, on behalf of King County, may collect the civil penalty by use of all appropriate legal remedies. (Ord. 1888 Art. III § 7, 1974).

6.01.180 Enforcement power. The director is authorized to take such lawful action, including the writing and issuance of misdemeanor citations, as may be required to enforce the provisions of any business license ordinance codified in this title. (Ord. 4514 § 1, 1979).

6.04 AMUSEMENT DEVICES

Sections:

I. NOVELTY AMUSEMENT DEVICES

6.04.010 Definitions.

6.04.020 License required ‑ Operation near schools prohibited.

6.04.030 Operation without licenses prohibited.

6.04.040 License Fee.

6.04.060 Novelty amusement device vendor's license.

6.04.070 Application procedure.

6.04.090 Financial interest prohibited.

6.04.100 Denial of licenses.

6.04.110 Suspension or revocation of licenses.

6.04.120 Effective date.

6.04.130 Renewal of license, registration or permit ‑ Late penalty.

6.04.140 Violation ‑ Misdemeanor.

6.04.150 Civil penalty.

6.04.160 Additional enforcement.

II. SHUFFLEBOARDS

6.04.170 Shuffleboard defined.

6.04.180 License required - fee.

6.04.190 Display, removal and transfer of license.

6.04.200 Information required on application for license - qualifications required of applicant.

6.04.210 Renewal of license, registration or permit - late penalty.

6.04.220 Penalty for violation - confiscation of shuffleboard.

6.04.230 Civil penalty.

6.04.240 Additional enforcement.

I. NOVELTY AMUSEMENT DEVICES*

*Prior resolution history: Res. 11956, as amended by Res. 12715, 16484 and 3561. Gambling devices unlawful ‑ See K.C.C. 12.56.

6.04.010 Definitions.

A. "Financial interest" means any direct or indirect ownership of the premises of business located therein through corporate stock ownership, partnership, trust or otherwise.

B. "Novelty amusement device" includes any coin‑operated or remote controlled machine, device, contrivance, apparatus or appliance, mechanical, electrical or hand propelled, designed to be used in whole or in part as an instrument or instrumentality for engaging in the use and exercise of skill by one or more persons in playing a game for the amusement and entertainment of the player or players and which is maintained commercially for such purpose. Such novelty amusement device shall not be used for the purpose of awarding any money or object of value to the player or players, and shall not contain any mechanism which varies the chance of winning free games or the number of free games which may be won, depending on the number of coins inserted into the device; provided that in no event shall a machine be licensed which is so designed and equipped as to render it of practical utility only as a device to be used for gambling.

C. "Novelty amusement device distributor" means any person who leases or rents to, or places with others, any novelty amusement device for use, play or operation.

D. "Novelty amusement device owner" means any person who owns a novelty amusement device and operates the device on premises owned or leased by said person.

E. "Novelty amusement device vendor" means any person who engages in the business of selling, exchanging or offering or exhibiting for sale or exchange, more than three novelty amusement devices in a year period.

F. "Substantial connection" means:

1. In a sole proprietorship, the individual owns, operates, manages or conducts, directly or indirectly, the applicant; or

2. In a partnership, the individual shares in any potential profits of the applicant; or

3. In a corporation, if the individual is an officer, director or a holder (directly or beneficially) of more than ten percent of any class of stock; or

4. The individual furnishes more than ten percent of the capital of such applicant, whether in cash, goods or services. (Ord. 2287 § 1, 1975: Ord. 69 § 1, 1969).

6.04.020 License required ‑ Operation near schools prohibited. No novelty amusement device shall be operated or kept for operation in King County outside of the limits of incorporated cities and towns unless licenses for the operation thereof have been taken out as hereinafter required; provided, however, that in no event shall any novelty amusement device be operated within five hundred feet of any elementary, middle, junior high or high school. (Ord. 1684 § 1, 1973: Ord. 69 § 2, 1969).

6.04.030 Operation without licenses prohibited. No owner, operator or other person in charge of any place of business shall operate, or permit to be in such place of business for operation, any novelty amusement device unless such device is licensed pursuant to Sections 6.04.040 and 6.04.080. (Ord. 2287 § 2, 1975: Ord. 69 § 3, 1969).

6.04.040 License Fee. The license fee for each amusement device shall be $100 per year. License fees for less than one year shall be prorated. The fee for such license or portion thereof shall be payable on January 1st of each year. (Ord. 10170 § 1, 1991: Ord. 6260 § 2, 1982).

6.04.060 Novelty amusement device vendor's license.

A. No person shall engage in the business of selling or offering or exhibiting for sale more than three novelty amusement devices in a year without a novelty amusement device vendor's license. However, the requirement for such a license shall not exist where the director determines the intent of the seller, offeror or exhibitor is not to engage in this business. In determining this intent the director shall consider and weigh in a reasonable manner the following factors, to include but not be limited by:

1. Nature of the sale;

2. Parties to the sale;

3. Frequency of sales in the past;

4. Volume of the sale;

5. Bargaining position of the parties to the sale;

6. Position of the parties after the sale;

7. Effect of the license requirement on the parties;

8. Good faith of the parties; and

9. Protection of buyer regarding servicing and maintenance of the device(s) if bond is not required. The fee for such license shall be five hundred dollars per year payable on January 1 of each year or portion thereof.

B. Each applicant for a novelty amusement device vendor's license shall file with the director a surety bond in a form approved by the director, executed by a surety company authorized to do business in this state running to the county of King, state of Washington in the sum of ten thousand dollars conditioned that the applicant‑vendor will furnish parts and repairs to any person to whom the applicant-vendor may sell any novelty amusement device for a period of two years after the sale. The bond shall state that it is for the use or benefit of the vendee who may have a cause of action against the vendor on the bond by reason of breach of the condition.

C. The director shall deny the application for a license if the applicant fails to satisfy the surety bond requirement. (Ord. 18728 § 6, 2018: Ord. 2287 § 6, 1975).

6.04.070 Application procedure. No license or renewal of any license provided for by this chapter shall be issued or renewed except upon written application to the director, signed and sworn to by the person who intends to utilize the license. Such application shall contain the following information:

A. The business name, business address and telephone number of the applicant;

B. In relation to each natural person having a substantial connection with such business:

1. True name and any other name by which commonly known,

2. Residence address and telephone number,

3. Date and place of birth,

4. Length of residence in King County; if less than one year then the prior address outside King County,

5. Nature of relationship to business,

6. Within ten years of date of application, has pleaded guilty to or been convicted of violating any ordinance, resolution or law other than traffic offenses, of any jurisdiction. If so, full circumstances thereof including but not limited to date, court and case disposition;

C. In relation to each corporation or partnership having a substantial connection with such applicant:

1. Name of the corporation or partnership,

2. Name of registered agent and address of registered office,

3. Primary office address, if different from above,

4. Date and place of incorporation or organization,

5. Date and place of filing of articles,

6. Nature of relationship to applicant,

7. Names and residence addresses of all officers, directors, limited or general partners, and holders (directly or beneficially) of more than ten percent of any class of stock;

D. Such other information as the director may reasonably require to determine the advisability of license issuance. (Ord. 2287 § 7, 1975).

6.04.090 Financial interest prohibited. No holder of a novelty amusement device distributor's license shall have any financial interest in the premises whereon said distributor leases, rents or places a novelty amusement device. (Ord. 2287 § 8, 1975).

6.04.100 Denial of licenses. The director may deny issuance of any license under this chapter if the applicant or any of its officers, directors or partners have:

A. Made any false statement in the application;

B. Committed any act, while unlicensed, for which a license is required under the provisions of this chapter;

C. Committed any act resulting in a conviction within ten years of a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude which is reasonably related to the license applied for;

D. Been refused a license or had a license revoked under the provisions of this chapter; provided however, that any applicant denied a license may reapply after six months, if the basis for denial no longer exists;

E. Not resided in the state of Washington for at least five years prior to an application for a novelty amusement device distributor's license;

F. Failed to comply with the building, zoning and fire codes of King County. (Ord. 2287 § 9, 1975).

6.04.110 Suspension or revocation of licenses. The director may suspend or revoke any license under this chapter if the applicant or any of its officers, directors or partners have:

A. Committed any act which is a ground for denial of any license under this chapter;

B. Violated any of the provisions of this chapter. (Ord. 2287 § 10, 1975).

6.04.120 Effective date. The provisions of this chapter shall not become effective until January 1, 1975; provided however, that any person desiring to apply for a novelty amusement device owner's license may do so and may be granted such license upon compliance with the provisions of this chapter; and further provided, that any person holding a license in 1974 pursuant to King County Code Section 6.04.030, who applied for such license after June 30, 1974, shall be credited by the county for the 1975 license year in the amount of two thousand five hundred dollars. (Ord. 2287 § 11, 1975).

6.04.130 Renewal of license, registration or permit ‑ Late penalty. A late penalty shall be charged on all applications for renewal of a license, registration or permit received later than ten working days after the expiration date of such license, registration or permit as set forth in the respective resolution or ordinance establishing the expiration date of such license, registration or permit. The amount of such penalty is fixed as follows:

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty cents or more, but less than fifty dollars ‑ twenty percent of the required fee;

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty cents or more, but less than one thousand dollars ‑ ten percent of the required fee;

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of one thousand dollars or more ‑ five percent of the required fee. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 3, 1974).

6.04.140 Violation ‑ Misdemeanor. Any violation of this article constitutes a misdemeanor and the punishment shall be as provided by the laws of the state of Washington. (Ord. 126 (part), 1969: Ord. 69 § 17, 1969).

6.04.150 Civil penalty. In addition to or as an alternative to any other penalty provided herein or by law any person who violates any provision of any business license ordinance shall be subject to a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars per violation to be directly assessed by the director. The director, in a reasonable manner, may vary the amount of

the penalty assessed to consider the appropriateness of the penalty to the size of the business of the violator; the gravity of the violation; the number of past and present violations committed and the good faith of the violator in attempting to achieve compliance after notification of the violation. All civil penalties assessed will be enforced and collected in accordance with the procedure specified under this title. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 1, 1974).

6.04.160 Additional enforcement. Notwithstanding the existence or use of any other remedy the director may seek legal or equitable relief to enjoin any acts or practices which constitute or will constitute a violation of any business license ordinance or other regulations herein adopted. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 2, 1974).

II. SHUFFLEBOARDS

6.04.170 Shuffleboard defined. For the purpose of this chapter, "shuffleboard" means any game consisting of a raised table or platform in the shape of an elongated rectangle that is supported on legs or a frame, that has surfaces with scoring areas and that is played by a hand-propelled ball, disk, puck or similar object and for which the winner or score is calculated by the resulting positions of such ball, disk, puck or similar object. Shuffleboards owned by establishment owners may be coin operated under the control of the establishment owner or designee and subject to inspection by the director. An establishment owner may own the shuffleboard to be used only on those premises. The establishment owner shall be required to pay a location license fee. (Ord. 18728 § 7, 2018: Ord. 1176 § 1, 1972: Res. 12714 § 1, 1951).

6.04.180 License required - fee. No shuffleboard shall be operated or kept for operation in King County outside of the limits of incorporated cities and towns unless a license for the operation thereof has been taken out as hereinafter provided, and the license fee for each shuffleboard shall be $50.00 per year. (Ord. 10170 § 2, 1991: Ord. 1982 § 1, 1974: Res. 12714 § 2, 1951).

6.04.190 Display, removal and transfer of license. Licenses shall be furnished in a form suitable to be attached to the shuffleboard licensed thereby. No such license shall be removed or detached from one shuffleboard and transferred to another. (Ord. 1888 Art. V § 6, 1974: Res. 12714 § 3, 1951).

6.04.200 Information required on application for license - qualifications required of applicant. The licenses set forth in this article shall be issued only upon written application therefor, which application shall be presented to the director, upon forms provided by the director, and must state the names and residences of the owners and parties who operate, maintain or offer for use or play any such shuffleboard, the location where each of the same is to be operated, maintained or offered for use or play, and the number of shuffleboards at each location, and the license shall only be issued to applicants of good moral character and financial responsibility. If the applicant is a partnership, each partner must possess the above qualifications. If applicant is a corporation, the corporation must be licensed to do business in the state of Washington, and its officers, manager and/or agents must possess the qualifications set forth in this section. (Ord. 18728 § 8, 2018: Ord. 1888 Art. V § 7, 1974: Res. 12714 § 4, 1951).

6.04.210 Renewal of license, registration or permit - late penalty. A late penalty shall be charged on all applications for renewal of a license, registration or permit received later than ten working days after the expiration date of such license, registration or permit, as set forth in the respective resolution or ordinance establishing the expiration date of such license, registration or permit. The amount of such penalty is fixed as follows:

A. For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty cents or more, but less than fifty dollars, twenty percent of the required fee;

B. For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty dollars or more, but less than one thousand dollars, ten percent of the required fee;

C. For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of one thousand dollars or more, five percent of the required fee. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 3, 1974).

6.04.220 Penalty for violation - confiscation of shuffleboard. Any person violating any of the terms of this article shall, upon conviction thereof, be fined in the sum of not less than fifty dollars nor more than three hundred dollars or imprisoned in the county jail for not more than ninety days, or both, and any shuffleboard being operated, maintained, kept or displayed in violation of this article shall, in the discretion of the court before which the violation is prosecuted, be confiscated by King County. (Res. 12714 § 7, 1951).

6.04.230 Civil penalty. In addition to or as an alternative to any other penalty provided herein or by law, any person who violates any provision of any business license ordinance shall be subject to a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars per violation, to be directly assessed by the director. The director, in a reasonable manner, may vary the amount of the penalty assessed to consider the appropriateness of the penalty to the size of the business of the violator; the gravity of the violation; the number of past and present violations committed; and the good faith of the violator in attempting to achieve compliance after notification of the violation. All civil penalties assessed will be enforced and collected in accordance with the procedure specified under this title. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 1, 1974).

6.04.240 Additional enforcement. Notwithstanding the existence or use of any other remedy, the director may seek legal or equitable relief to enjoin any acts or practices which constitute or will constitute a violation of any business license ordinance or other regulations herein adopted. (Ord. 1888 Art IV § 2, 1974).

6.08 AMUSEMENT PLACES

Sections:

6.08.010 Definitions.

6.08.020 License required ‑ fee.

6.08.021 License investigation.

6.08.022 Standards for denial of license.

6.08.030 Due date for license fees.

6.08.042 License applications – public amusement/entertainment license.

6.08.043 License display.

6.08.070 Business hours.

6.08.080 Outdoor sports exempt from code.

6.08.090 Race tracks and dragstrips.

6.08.100 Standards for public amusement/entertainment license suspension or revocation.

6.08.120 Penalty for violation.

6.08.130 Civil penalty.

6.08.140 Additional enforcement.

6.08.150 Limitation of liability.

6.08.010 Definitions. For the purpose of this chapter, "public place of amusement," "public amusement/entertainment," and "public entertainment" mean an amusement, diversion, entertainment, show, performance, exhibition, display or like activities, for the use or benefit of a member or members of the public, or advertised for the use or benefit of a member of the public, held, conducted, operated or maintained for a profit, direct or indirect, but not including adult entertainment businesses. (Ord. 13548 § 29, 1999: Ord. 9915 § 9, 1991: Ord. 7216 § 2, 1985: Ord. 5410 § 1, 1981: Ord. 5304 § 1, 1981: Ord. 4206 § 3, 1979).

6.08.020 License required ‑ fee. A public place of amusement shall not be operated or maintained in King County, outside the limits of incorporated cities and towns, unless the owner or lessee thereof has obtained a license from the director, as follows:

Type of Entertainment		Fee
Miscellaneous (Includes, but is not limited to): Live Entertainment; music (other than mechanical); boxing or wrestling exhibition skating; video arcades; pool halls; bowling alleys; public more of miscellaneous race tracks, dragstrips, automobile or otherwise.		$200.00 per year, 100.00 per 6 mos. or 50.00 per one night (covers one or skating rinks; shooting galleries; entertainment).
Amusement Parks – Permanent
For one to ten units, inclusive		200.00 per year or 100.00 per 6 mos.
For more than ten units		400.00 per year or 200.00 per 6 mos.
Carnivals
	For one to ten units, inclusive	40.00 per day
	For more than ten units	100.00 per day

NOTE: Units are defined as (a) rides; (b) sideshows; (c) merchandise or food concessions.

(Ord. 13548 § 30, 1999: Ord. 10170 § 3, 1991: Ord. 7216 § 3, 1985: Ord. 5304 § 2, 1981: Ord. 4270 § 3, 1979: Ord. 1888 Art. V § 8, 1974: Res. 8655 (part), 1943: Res. 6574 (part), 1937).

6.08.021 License investigation. The director shall determine whether an application under K.C.C. 6.08.020 complies with all applicable fire, building and zoning codes of King County. (Ord. 17420 § 11, 2012: Ord. 13548 § 31, 1999: Ord. 9915 § 11, 1991).

6.08.022 Standards for denial of license. The director shall deny any public amusement/entertainment license applied for under this chapter for any of the following reasons and shall notify the applicant in writing of the grounds for the denial and the opportunity to appeal:

A. The applicant knowingly made a false, misleading or fraudulent omission or representation of material fact on the application for the license;

B. The proposed a place of business or establishment to be licensed does not comply with all applicable requirements of the fire, building and zoning codes of King County. (Ord. 13548 § 32, 1999: Ord. 9915 § 12, 1991).

6.08.030 Due date for license fees. All license fees required by K.C.C. 6.08.020 are due and payable to the records and licensing services division at least twenty days before the opening of entertainment. (Ord. 15971 § 47, 2007: Ord. 13548 § 33, 1s999: Ord. 7216 § 5, 1985: Ord. 1888 Art. V § 9, 1974: Res. 6574 (part), 1937).

6.08.042 License applications – public amusement/entertainment license. An application for a public amusement/entertainment license must be submitted in the name of the person or entity proposing to provide such public amusement/entertainment on the business premises and shall be signed by such person or the person's agent and notarized or certified as true under penalty of perjury. All applications shall be submitted on a form supplied by the director, which shall require the following information:

A. The name, current residential and mailing addresses, and date and place of birth of the applicant if the applicant is an individual, the partners if the applicant is a partnership and the officers and directors if the applicant is a corporation;

B. The business name, address and telephone number of the establishment;

C. If the applicant is a corporation, limited liability company or partnership, the legal name of the entity, the date and place of incorporation or formation, and the name and address of any registered agent for service of process;

D. Whether the applicant proposes to serve any alcoholic beverages on the premises and the status of the business’s liquor license or application for a liquor license issued by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board; and

E. The nature of the business conducted on the premises and the proposed public amusement/entertainment. (Ord. 18728 § 9, 2018: Ord. 13548 § 34, 1999: Ord. 9915 § 10, 1991: Ord. 7216 § 6, 1985).

6.08.043 License display. The public entertainment/amusement license issued under this chapter shall be prominently displayed on the licensed premises. (Ord. 13548 § 35, 1999: Ord. 9915 § 14, 1991).

6.08.070 Business hours. No public entertainment shall be conducted between the hours of two‑thirty a.m. and ten a.m., provided that, public dancing and those activities related to public dancing licensed by King County such as live musical entertainment shall be permitted until four a.m. in establishments which have a class "H" liquor license and are in an area within both 2000 feet of Sea‑Tac International Airport and 500 feet of a state highway. (Ord. 7070 § 1, 1984: Res. 6574 (part), 1937).

6.08.080 Outdoor sports exempt from code. No license shall be required for any recognized outdoor sports. (Res. 6574 (part), 1937).

6.08.090 Race tracks and dragstrips. Applicants must submit, for any amusement place license for a race track or dragstrip, whether automobile or otherwise, where the expected attendance will exceed two thousand people at any single scheduled event, information as deemed appropriate by the sheriff's office to insure that adequate traffic control and crowd protection policing has been arranged through private security agencies or, has been contracted for with the sheriff's office. A written notice that the applicant has complied with the requirement shall be issued by the sheriff or designee before an amusement place license shall be issued; provided, that if the applicant should contract for traffic control and crowd protection policing with King County, in no event should the sum agreed upon in payment for such policing be less than the actual expense incurred by the county in providing that service. Such consideration shall be calculated for personnel resources on the hourly rate for overtime under the current collective bargaining agreement, plus that percentage then being paid for fringe benefits, and all sums paid under such contract shall be paid in accordance with procedures specified by the office of finance and business operations. (Ord. 18728 § 10, 2018: Ord. 9915 § 16, 1991: Ord. 4270 § 4, 1979).

6.08.100 Standards for public amusement/entertainment license suspension or revocation. The director shall revoke or suspend, for not more than one year, any public amusement/entertainment license if the director determines that the licensee or applicant has:

A. Obtained or renewed the license through a false, misleading or fraudulent omission or representation of material fact on the application; or

B. Violated or permitted or authorized any violation of any provisions of this chapter by any person. (Ord. 18728 § 11, 2018: Ord. 13548 § 36, 1999: Ord. 9915 § 17, 1991: Ord. 7216 § 10, 1985: Ord. 5304 § 4, 1981: Ord. 4206 § 4, 1979).

6.08.120 Penalty for violation. Any person violating any of the terms of this chapter shall, upon conviction thereof, be fined in the sum of not less than ten dollars nor more than three hundred dollars or by imprisonment in the county jail for not more than ninety days, or both. (Res. 6574 (part), 1937).

6.08.130 Civil penalty. In addition to or as an alternative to any other penalty provided herein or by law, any person who violates any provision of any business license ordinance shall be subject to a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars per violation, to be directly assessed by the director. The director, in a reasonable manner, may vary the amount of the penalty assessed to consider the appropriateness of the penalty to the size of the business of the violator; the gravity of the violation; the number of past and present violations committed; and the good faith of the violator in attempting to achieve compliance after notification of the violation. All civil penalties assessed will be enforced and collected in accordance with the procedure specified under this title. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 1, 1974).

6.08.140 Additional enforcement. Notwithstanding the existence or use of any other remedy, the director may seek legal or equitable relief to enjoin any acts or practices which constitute or will constitute a violation of any business license ordinance or other regulations herein adopted. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 2, 1974).

6.08.150 Limitation of liability. This chapter is not intended to create a cause of action or provide the basis for a claim against the county, its officials or its employees for the performance or the failure to perform a duty or obligation running to a specific individual or specific individuals. A duty or obligation created under this chapter is intended to be a general duty or obligation running in favor of the general public. (Ord. 13458 § 37, 1999).

6.09 ADULT ENTERTAINMENT

Sections:

6.09.010 Findings of fact.

6.09.020 Purpose and intent.

6.09.030 Definitions.

6.09.040 License required.

6.09.050 Adult entertainment business license - application process.

6.09.060 Adult entertainment business license - grounds for denial.

6.09.070 Manager and entertainer licenses - application process.

6.09.080 Manager and entertainer licenses - grounds for denial.

6.09.090 License duration and renewal

6.09.100 License fees.

6.09.110 Adult clubs - facility specifications.

6.09.120 Adult clubs - operating requirements and standards of conduct.

6.09.130 Adult arcades - facility specifications.

6.09.140 Adult arcades - operating requirements and standards of conduct.

6.09.150 Adult theaters - facility specifications.

6.09.160 Adult theaters - operating requirements and standards of conduct.

6.09.170 Permission to inspect.

6.09.180 Grounds for suspension and revocation of licenses.

6.09.190 Appeal of license denial, suspension and revocation.

6.09.200 Nonobscene performances, dramatic works, classes, seminars or lectures not

prohibited.

6.09.210 Preexisting nonconforming configuration.

6.09.220 Limitations of liability.

6.09.230 Criminal penalty.

6.09.240 Civil penalty.

6.09.250 Additional remedies.

6.09.260 Liquor regulations.

6.09.270 Construction and severability.

6.09.010 Findings of fact. The King County council makes the following findings of fact based on: the evidence of conduct occurring in and around adult entertainment businesses as reported in O'Day v. King County, 109 Wn.2d 796 (1988) and as reported in public testimony and other evidence, information, documents and other materials received by the King County council, including but not limited to the legislative record supporting Ordinance 7216, adopted in 1985, Ordinance 9915, adopted in 1991, Ordinance 13546 and Ordinance 13548. The King County council also makes the following findings having taken legislative notice of the evidence of conduct occurring in and around adult entertainment businesses located in other jurisdictions, which the council hereby deems to be relevant to the experience in King County, as reported in judicial opinions including but not limited to Kev, Inc. v. Kitsap County, 793 F.2d 1053 (9th Cir. 1986), Ino Ino, Inc. v. City of Bellevue, 132 Wn.2d 103 (1997), DCR, Inc. v. Pierce County, 92 Wn.App. 660 (1998) and Colacurcio v. City of Kent, 163 F.3d 545 (9th Cir. 1998) and as reported in the studies and findings of other city and county legislative bodies that have also adopted ordinances regulating adult entertainment businesses, including but not limited to the counties of Kitsap, Pierce, Snohomish and Spokane and the cities of Bellevue, Bothell, Everett, Federal Way, Kent, Lake Forest Park, Redmond, Renton, Seattle, Shoreline and Tukwila.

A. The operation of adult entertainment businesses has historically and regularly been accompanied by secondary effects that are detrimental to the public health, safety, morals and general welfare of the citizens of King County. Such secondary effects include significant criminal activity and activities injurious to the public health, safety, morals and general welfare of the community, detrimental effects on nearby businesses and residential areas and a decline in property values in the area of the adult entertainment businesses. This history of criminal and injurious activity includes prostitution, narcotics and liquor law violations, breaches of the peace, assaults, employment or involvement of minors, sexual conduct between customers or between customers and entertainers, the opportunity for the spread of sexually transmitted diseases and the presence within the industry of individuals with hidden ownership interests and outstanding arrest warrants. Accordingly, there is a compelling need and interest to regulate adult entertainment businesses as provided in this chapter to protect and promote the public health, safety, morals and general welfare of the citizens of King County;

B. These activities occur regardless of whether adult entertainment is presented in conjunction with the sale of alcoholic beverages;

C. The resources available for responding to problems associated with adult entertainment businesses are limited and are most efficiently and effectively utilized through a licensing and regulatory program;

D. The license fees required in Ordinance 13548 are necessary as reasonable fees imposed to help defray the costs of processing the license applications and the substantial expenses incurred by King County in regulating the adult entertainment industry;

E. Adult entertainment businesses have historically engaged in practices that involve secreting ownership interests for such purposes as money laundering, skimming profits and tax evasion. These hidden ownership interests have, on occasion, been held by individuals and entities reputed to be involved in organized crime. To detect and discourage the involvement of organized crime in the adult entertainment industry, to effectively deploy its limited law enforcement resources and to effectively protect the public health, safety, morals and general welfare of its citizenry, the county must be fully apprised of the actual and controlling interests of adult entertainment businesses and the identities and criminal backgrounds of persons responsible for the management and control of such businesses;

F. To detect and discourage the involvement of organized crime in the adult entertainment industry, to prevent the exploitation of minors, to assure the correct identification of persons working in adult entertainment businesses, to effectively deploy its limited law enforcement resources and to effectively protect the public health, safety, morals and general welfare of its citizenry, the county must be fully apprised of the identity, age and criminal background of managers in adult entertainment businesses;

G. It is necessary to have a licensed manager on the premises of an adult entertainment business during all hours of operation so there will be a person responsible for the overall operation of the business, including the actions of customers, entertainers and other employees. To monitor the actions of these individuals, a manager must be able to observe these individuals at all times;

H. To prevent the exploitation of minors, to assure the correct identification of persons working in adult entertainment businesses, to effectively deploy its limited law enforcement resources and to effectively protect the public health, safety, morals and general welfare of its citizenry, the county must be fully apprised of the identity, age and criminal background of entertainers in adult clubs;

I. Proximity between entertainers and customers in adult clubs facilitates sexual conduct, prostitution, transactions involving controlled substances and other crimes. To deter such conduct and assist law enforcement in detecting it, King County has historically required that an entertainer exposing nudity must be separated from customers by performing on a stage at least eighteen inches above the floor and as least six feet from the nearest patron and has prohibited entertainers from engaging in sexual conduct;

J. There is substantial evidence that such prohibitions are ineffective. Entertainers in adult clubs perform offstage erotic performances, variously referred to as "table", "couch" or "lap" dances, which typically involve exposure of nudity or sexual conduct between entertainers and customers, or both, and may also include acts of prostitution, transactions involving controlled substances and other crimes. To effectively deter such conduct and assist law enforcement in detecting it, it is necessary that all erotic performances in an adult club occur on a stage which is at least ten feet from the nearest customer. Such a requirement is in effect in the city of Kent, Kitsap county and Pierce county and has been upheld as a constitutional regulation that furthers the governmental interest in preventing sexual conduct and other criminal conduct while still allowing an entertainer to convey an erotic expression (see Colacurcio v. City of Kent, 163 F.3d 545 (9th Cir. 1998), Kev, Inc. v. Kitsap County, 793 F.2d 1053 (9th Cir. 1986) and DCR, Inc. v. Pierce County, 92 Wn.App. 660 (1998), respectively).

K. To prevent sexual conduct from occurring between entertainers and customers, customers must be prohibited from any stage where adult entertainment occurs and be prohibited from passing tips, gratuities or other payments directly to entertainers performing on stage.

L. Adult entertainment businesses have historically attempted to prevent law enforcement and licensing officials from detecting sexual conduct, prostitution, sale and distribution of controlled substances and other violations of law occurring on the premises by employing warning systems, maintaining a low level of lighting and other techniques. It is necessary, to effectively enforce Ordinance 13548 and to protect the public health, safety, morals and general welfare of the county's citizenry, that adult entertainment businesses be required to maintain a minimum level of lighting, that warning devices and systems be prohibited and that unannounced inspections be permitted by county licensing and law enforcement personnel;

M. Adult arcades provide booths for individual viewing of live performances, videos and films distinguished or characterized by an emphasis on nudity or sexual conduct. Existing standards of conduct and facility specifications have not deterred customers from engaging in sexual conduct in such businesses. To detect and deter such conduct, to require maintenance of clean and sanitary conditions and to reduce the potential for the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, it is necessary to regulate the configuration and facility specifications of adult arcades as set forth in this chapter, including but not limited to restricting the occupancy of a booth to one person;

N. An adult arcade might attempt to circumvent the limit of one person per booth by creating a small room, labeled a "minitheater" rather than a booth, in which two, three or a small number of individuals would be able to view videos and films distinguished or characterized by an emphasis on nudity or sexual conduct. Moreover, traditional-sized theaters might also show such videos or films. Customers have used both traditional adult theaters and "minitheaters" within arcades as places to engage in sexual conduct. Existing standards of conduct and facility specifications have not deterred customers from engaging in sexual conduct in these businesses. To detect and deter such conduct and reduce the potential for the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, it is necessary to regulate the configuration and facility specifications, as set forth in this chapter, of spaces used by more than one individual to view adult entertainment. In particular, it is necessary to require that any group viewing area for such videos and films have a minimum of eight seats which may be accessed by customers without reservation in order to prevent or diminish a sense of privacy and intimacy which would be conducive to and enabling of sexual conduct between customers;

O. To assure that minors are not subjected to adult entertainment, it is necessary to prohibit adult entertainment businesses from allowing adult entertainment performances, or pictorial representations of adult entertainment performances displaying nudity or sexual conduct, from being visible from outside the business; and

P. To discourage customers of bars and other alcohol-serving businesses from moving to adult entertainment businesses at two a.m. for "after hours" activities, and the increased likelihood of breaches of the peace and other criminal conduct that arise from those customers and to reduce the adverse secondary effects of adult entertainment businesses on minors and the community, it is necessary to restrict the closing time of adult entertainment businesses.

Q. The findings of fact contained in Ordinance 13456 are incorporated in this chapter. (Ord. 13548 § 2, 1999).

6.09.020 Purpose and intent. It is the purpose of this chapter to establish licensing, operational and facility standards for adult entertainment businesses located in unincorporated King County to promote and protect the health, safety, morals and general welfare of unincorporated King County’s residents. This chapter is intended to prevent the secondary effects that have historically and regularly accompanied the operation of adult entertainment businesses, including but not limited to the incidence of prostitution, sexual conduct with the opportunity for transmission of sexually transmitted diseases, employment or involvement of minors, violation of controlled substance and alcoholic beverage laws, assaults, breaches of the peace and the presence within the industry of individuals with hidden ownership interests and outstanding arrest warrants. It is not the intent of the county council that this chapter have either the purpose or effect of suppressing speech activities protected by the constitutions of the United States and the state of Washington. (Ord. 13548 § 3, 1999).

6.09.030 Definitions. The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.

A. "Adult entertainment" means a performance described in the definition of adult entertainment business in this section.

B. "Adult entertainment business" means an adult arcade, an adult club or an adult theater, each as defined in the following, or a combination of an adult arcade, an adult club or an adult theater.

1. "Adult arcade" means a bookstore, video store, membership club or other place:

a. to which the public or members of a membership club are invited or admitted, whether or not a membership fee, cover charge or other consideration is required for admittance; and

b. that provides one or more booths for viewing a live performance, as specified in the definition of an "adult club" in subsection B.2. of this section, or motion picture films, video cassettes, cable television shows, computer-generated images or any other visual media distinguished or characterized by a predominant emphasis on performances involving nudity or sexual conduct.

2. "Adult club" means a nightclub, membership club, bar, restaurant, salon, hall, studio or other place:

a. to which the public or members of a membership club are invited or admitted, whether or not a membership fee, cover charge or other consideration is required for admittance, and

b. that provides, on a regular basis or as a substantial part of the activity on the premises, a live performance that: includes nudity; is distinguished or characterized by a predominant emphasis on depictions or simulations of sexual conduct; or otherwise constitutes an erotic performance. A place that provides such a live performance only for viewing by an individual in a booth in accordance with this chapter is an adult arcade and not an adult club.

3. "Adult theater" means a movie theater, bookstore, video store, membership club or other place:

a. to which the public or members of a membership club are invited or admitted, whether or not a membership fee, cover charge or other consideration is required for admittance; and

b. that provides a room or other area that can accommodate more than one person for viewing motion picture films, video cassettes, cable television shows, computer-generated images or any other visual media distinguished or characterized by a predominant emphasis on performances involving nudity or sexual conduct.

4. Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, “adult arcade,” "adult club" and "adult theater" do not include:

a. a theater or performing arts institution that presents a play, opera, musical, dance or other dramatic works that are not distinguished or characterized by a predominant emphasis on nudity or sexual conduct; or

b. an educational institution, administered, licensed or recognized as a public or private educational institution by the state of Washington, that provides a modeling session or other class or seminar depicting nudity or sexual conduct.

C. "Applicant" means a person who applies for an adult entertainment business license, an adult entertainment manager license or an adult entertainer license.

D. "Booth" means a booth, cubicle, stall, room or enclosed space in an adult arcade, that is designed, constructed or used to hold or seat a single individual.

E. "Business control person" means a partner, corporate officer, director, shareholder or other individual who has responsibility for the management of an adult entertainment business.

F. "Business license" means an adult entertainment business license.

G. "County" means King County, Washington.

H. "Customer" means a customer, patron, club member or other individual who is invited or admitted to an adult entertainment business during its hours of operation, regardless of whether that individual makes a purchase or pays a fee, charge, gratuity or other consideration. However, “customer” does not include an employee or entertainer while the employee or entertainer is engaged in the employee or entertainer's duties or performance.

I. "Director" means the director of the department of information and administrative services or the director’s designee.

J. "Employee" means an individual, including an independent contractor, who works in or at or renders service directly related to the operation of an adult entertainment business, whether or not the person is paid compensation by the operator of the business.

K. "Entertainer" means an individual who provides live adult entertainment in an adult club, whether or not a fee, tip or other consideration is charged or accepted for the entertainment.

L. "Entertainer license" means a license for an entertainer issued under this chapter.

M. "Erotic performance" means a performance, in an adult club, that is intended to sexually stimulate a customer.

N. "Manager" means an individual who provides on-site management, direction or administration of the operation or conduct of any portion of an activity conducted in an adult entertainment business and includes an assistant manager working with or under the direction of a manager to carry out those purposes.

O. "Manager license" means a license for a manager issued under this chapter.

P. "Membership club" means a club that invites or accepts a membership application from the public.

Q. "Nudity" or "nude" means:

1. The exposure to view, by not completely covering with an opaque material, of the human pubic region, anus, cleft of the buttocks, genitalia or any portion of the areola or nipple of the female breast;

2. The exposure to view of a device or covering that simulates the appearance of the human pubic region, anus, cleft of the buttocks, genitalia or any portion of the areola or nipple of the female breast; or

3. The display of genitalia in a discernible state of sexual stimulation, whether covered or not with opaque material.

R. "Obscene" means a performance that:

1. Taken as a whole, by an average person applying contemporary community standards, appeals to a prurient interest in sex;

2. Taken as a whole, by an average person applying contemporary community standards, depicts patently offensive representations of the sexual acts described in RCW 7.48A.010(2)(b); and

3. Taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political or scientific value.

S. "Performance" means an exhibition, display, appearance, dance, modeling, demonstration, show, pantomime or presentation of any kind, whether live or depicted in a motion picture film, video cassette, cable television show, computer-generated image, slide or other nonlive visual image.

T. "Person" means an individual, firm, corporation, joint venture, partnership, association, membership club, social organization, estate, trust or other entity or group acting as a unit.

U. "Premises" means the entire real estate parcel on which an adult entertainment business is located, including all interior areas and exterior areas such as parking areas.

V. "Satisfactory documentation" means:

1. A current, valid motor vehicle operator’s license, issued by a state, bearing the applicant’s photograph and date of birth;

2. A current, valid identification card bearing the applicant’s photograph and date of birth issued by a federal or state government agency; or

3. A valid passport issued by the United States of America or another country.

W. "Sexual conduct" means any of the following:

1. Caressing, fondling or other erotic touching of genitalia, pubic region, buttocks, anus, female breast or artificial depictions of those anatomical areas, whether covered or not with opaque material; or

2. An act of masturbation, genital intercourse, anal intercourse, fellatio, cunnilingus, sadomasochistic abuse or bestiality.

X. "Sheriff's office" means the office of the King County sheriff. (Ord. 18728 § 12, 2018: Ord. 13548 § 4, 1999).

6.09.040 Licenses required.

A. Business license.

1. No person shall operate an adult entertainment business at a location in unincorporated King County unless the person holds a valid adult entertainment business license issued by the director in the person’s name, for the location and for one or more of the following types of adult entertainment business being operated on the premises:

a. adult club;

b. adult arcade; or

c. adult theater.

2. No person shall knowingly allow the use of the person’s property located in unincorporated King County for the operation of an adult entertainment business that is not licensed under this chapter.

3. No person shall knowingly manage or participate in the management of an adult entertainment business, located in unincorporated King County, that is not licensed under this chapter.

4. No person shall knowingly work as an employee or entertainer in or about an adult entertainment business, located in unincorporated King County, that is not licensed under this chapter.

5. No person granted an adult entertainment business license under this chapter shall operate the adult entertainment business under a name not specified on the license.

6. No person shall operate an adult entertainment business at a location not specified on the license.

B. Manager license. No person shall act as a manager of an adult entertainment business located in unincorporated King County without having first obtained a manager license.

C. Entertainer license. No person shall act as an entertainer at an adult entertainment business located in unincorporated King County without having first obtained an entertainer license.

D. Duty to supplement. An applicant for, or a holder of, a license issued under this chapter shall modify or supplement application information, on file with the director, within ten days of a change if the information changes materially from what is stated on the applicant or holder’s application.

E. Assignment or transfer of license prohibited. A license issued under this chapter may not be assigned or transferred as part of a transaction, including, but not limited to, the sale, exchange, establishment of a trust or any other means.

F. Original required. A photocopy or other form of reproduction is not acceptable as proof of a license required under this chapter. (Ord. 13548 § 5, 1999).

6.09.050 Adult entertainment business license - application process.

A. An application for an adult entertainment business license must be submitted in the name of the person proposing to operate the adult entertainment business and who would be liable under Title 82 RCW for the payment of business and occupation taxes on the privilege of operating the adult entertainment business.

B. An application for an adult entertainment business license must be made on a form, provided by the director, that requires the following information:

1. For the applicant and each business control person:

a. the legal name and any alias, stage name or previous name;

b. the date and place of birth;

c. the current residential and mailing addresses;

d. the business telephone number;

e. the driver’s license number and issuing state;

f. the employment, business and occupational history for the three years immediately preceding the date of the application, including the name and address of employers or persons for whom the applicant or business control person performed services as an independent contractor;

g. whether the applicant or business control person holds any other licenses under this chapter or an adult entertainment-related license issued by another jurisdiction; and, if so, the name and address of the businesses to which the licenses pertain;

h. whether the applicant or business control person had, within the three years immediately preceding the date of the application, a license under this chapter or an adult entertainment-related license issued by another jurisdiction denied, suspended or revoked; and, if so, the name and location of the adult entertainment business to which the denied, suspended or revoked license pertained, the jurisdiction that took such action, the reason for the action, the date of the action and the status of any appeal of the action; and

i. whether the applicant or business control person has been the subject of a bail forfeiture, adverse finding or conviction in connection with local, state or federal criminal law, other than a parking offense or traffic infraction, within the five years immediately preceding the date of the application; and, if so, the nature of the crime and the date, location and nature of the judicial action taken;

2. If the applicant is a corporation or a limited liability company:

a. the legal name of the corporation;

b. the date and place of incorporation; and

c. the name and address of any registered agent for service of process;

3. If the applicant is a partnership:

a. the legal name of the partnership;

b. whether the partnership is general or limited; and

c. the name and address of any registered agent for service of process;

4. The applicant’s federal and state tax identification numbers;

5. The type or types of adult entertainment proposed for the business and the business’s proposed "doing-business-as" name;

6. The location of the proposed adult entertainment business, including a legal description of the property, the common address and each telephone number assigned to the business;

7. The name, address and telephone number of each owner and lessee of the property at which the adult entertainment business is proposed to be conducted; and

8. Whether the applicant proposes to serve liquor in the adult entertainment business and the status of the business’s liquor license or application for the liquor license.

C. An application form for an adult entertainment business license must be accompanied by the following submittals:

1. If the applicant is a corporation, evidence that the corporation is qualified to do business in the state of Washington. If the applicant is a partnership, a copy of the partnership agreement must be included;

2. A sketch or diagram showing the configuration of the interior of the adult entertainment business, including a statement of total floor space occupied by the business. The sketch or diagram must be drawn to a designated scale or drawn with marked dimensions of the interior of the premises to an accuracy of plus or minus six inches;

3. For each applicant and business control person:

a. satisfactory documentation that the applicant or business control person is at least eighteen years old; and

b. a complete set of fingerprints taken by the sheriff's office or sent directly to the director from another law enforcement agency; and

4. The license fee or fees established in this chapter.

D. The application form must be verified and certified to be complete and true under penalty of perjury by the notarized signature of the applicant, if the applicant is an individual. If the applicant is a partnership or corporation, the notarized signature must be that of a general partner of the partnership or the president of the corporation. The director may request other information or clarification in addition to that provided in the application form if necessary to determine compliance with this chapter and applicable zoning, building, fire, public health and other ordinances, statutes and rules.

E. On receipt of an application and all required submittals and information, the director shall provide copies of the application materials to the sheriff's office and such other county departments as the director deems appropriate to assess whether the proposed adult entertainment business complies with this chapter and applicable zoning, building, fire, public health and other ordinances, statutes and rules.

F. The director and personnel from other departments may conduct on-site inspections of the premises of the adult entertainment business before the director issues a license to ensure compliance with this chapter and applicable zoning, building, fire, public health and other ordinances, statutes and rules.

G. Within thirty days of the director’s receipt of an application and all required submittals and information, the director shall issue or deny the adult entertainment business license. If the director fails to issue or deny the license within the thirty-day period, the license is deemed issued on the last day of the period and the applicant may operate, subject to all other provisions of this chapter, the business for which the license was sought.

H. An adult entertainment business license at a minimum shall include on its face the name of the person to whom the license is issued, the “doing-business-as” name of the business, the specific type of adult entertainment business licensed, the license’s expiration date and the address of the adult entertainment business. (Ord. 13548 § 6, 1999).

6.09.060 Adult entertainment business license - grounds for denial. The director shall deny the adult entertainment business license for any of the following reasons and shall notify the applicant in writing of the grounds for the denial and the opportunity to appeal:

A. The applicant or a business control person is less than eighteen years old;

B. The applicant failed to provide all of the information and submittals required by the director and this chapter;

C. The applicant knowingly made a false, misleading or fraudulent representation or omission of material fact, either on the application for the license or by failing to modify or supplement the application as required by K.C.C. 6.09.040D of this chapter;

D. The applicant or a business control person is currently the subject of a final adult entertainment license suspension order issued by the county or is the subject of an adult entertainment license revocation order, issued by the county, that became final less than one year before the pending application; or

E. The applicant or the adult entertainment business is not in compliance with this chapter or applicable zoning, building, fire, public health or other ordinance, statute or rule. (Ord. 13548 § 7, 1999).

6.09.070 Manager and entertainer licenses - application process.

A. A separate license is required for an individual to act as a manager of an adult entertainment business and to act as an entertainer at an adult club.

B. An application for a manager license or entertainer license must be made on a form provided by the director, which form must require the following information:

1. For the applicant:

a. the legal name and any alias, stage name or previous name;

b. the date and place of birth;

c. the current residential and mailing addresses;

d. the residential and business telephone numbers;

e. the driver’s license number and issuing state;

f. whether the applicant holds another license under this chapter or an adult entertainment-related license issued by another jurisdiction; and, if so, the name and address of the business to which the license pertains;

g. whether the applicant had, within the three years immediately preceding the date of the application, a license under this chapter or an adult entertainment-related license issued by another jurisdiction denied, suspended or revoked within the three years immediately preceding the date of the application; and, if so, the name and location of the adult entertainment business to which the denied, suspended or revoked license pertained, the jurisdiction that took such action, the reason for the action, the date of the action and the status of any appeal of the action; and

h. whether the applicant has been the subject of a bail forfeiture, adverse finding or conviction in connection with local, state or federal criminal law, other than a parking offense or traffic infraction, within the five years immediately preceding the date of the application; and, if so, the nature of the crime and the date, location and nature of the judicial action taken; and

2. The name and address of each adult entertainment business at which the applicant will work as a manager or entertainer.

C. A completed application form for a manager’s license or an entertainer’s license must be accompanied by the following submittals:

1. Satisfactory documentation that the applicant is at least eighteen years old;

2 Two color photographs taken by the director showing only the full face of the applicant;

3. A complete set of the applicant’s fingerprints taken by the sheriff's office; and

4. The license fee established in this chapter.

D. The application form must be verified and certified to be complete and true under penalty of perjury by the notarized signature of the applicant.

E. The director shall issue or deny a manager license or entertainer license on the same business day in which a completed application and all required submittals and information are received. If the director fails to issue or deny the license on the same business day, the license is deemed issued on the date the completed application was received and the applicant may perform, subject to all other provisions of this chapter, the function for which the license was sought.

F. A manager license or entertainer license at a minimum shall include on its face the name of the person to whom it is issued; the person’s signature, height and weight, date of birth and photograph; the license’s expiration date; and whether the holder is licensed as a manager or entertainer. (Ord. 13548 § 8, 1999).

6.09.080 Manager licenses and entertainer licenses - grounds for denial. The director shall deny an application for a manager or entertainer license for any of the following reasons and shall notify the applicant in writing of the grounds for the denial and the opportunity to appeal:

A. The applicant is less than eighteen years old;

B. The applicant failed to provide all information and submittals required by the director and this chapter;

C. The applicant knowingly made a false, misleading or fraudulent omission or representation of material fact, either on the application for the license or by failing to modify or supplement the application as required by 6.09.040D of this chapter;

D. The applicant is currently the subject of a final adult entertainment license suspension order issued by the county or is the subject of an adult entertainment license revocation order issued by the county that became final less than one year before the pending application. (Ord. 13548 § 9, 1999).

6.09.090 License duration and renewal.

A. An adult entertainment business license, manager license or entertainer license expires one year from the date of the initial license application filing. To avoid a lapse in the effectiveness of a license, an application to renew a license must be submitted to the director, on a form provided by the director, at least thirty days before the expiration of a business license and at least one business day before the expiration of a manager license or entertainer license. Notwithstanding a lapse in the effectiveness of a license, an application shall be processed as a renewal application if it is filed within ten days after a license expired.

B. An application for renewal must be accompanied by those initial submittals as may be required by the director. The application form must be verified and certified to be complete and true under penalty of perjury by the notarized signature of the applicant, if the applicant is an individual. If the applicant is a partnership or corporation, the notarized signature shall be that of a general partner of the partnership or the president of the corporation.

C. On receipt of a business license renewal application and all required submittals, the director shall provide copies of the application materials to the sheriff's office and such other county departments as the director deems appropriate to determine whether the adult entertainment business complies with this chapter and applicable zoning, building, fire, public health and other county, state and federal ordinances, statutes and rules.

D. The director and personnel from another department may conduct an on-site inspection of the adult entertainment business before issuing a renewal of a business license to ensure compliance with this chapter.

E. Within thirty days of the director’s receipt of a business license renewal application and all required submittals and information, the director shall issue or deny the license renewal. If the director fails to issue or deny the license renewal within the thirty-day period, the business license is deemed issued on the last day of the period and the applicant may continue to operate, subject to all other provisions of this chapter, the business for which the license renewal was sought.

F. The director shall issue or deny a renewal of a manager license or entertainer license on the same business day in which the completed renewal application and all required submittals and information are received. If the director fails to issue or deny the license on the same business day, the license is deemed issued on the date the completed application was received and the applicant may perform, subject to all other provisions of this chapter, the function for which the license was sought.

G. The director shall deny a license renewal for any of the reasons in this chapter for denial of an initial license application and shall notify the applicant in writing of the grounds for denial and the opportunity to appeal.

H. A license renewal expires one year from the previous license’s expiration date. (Ord. 13548 § 10, 1999).

6.09.100 License fees. A person applying for a license under this chapter shall pay the appropriate nonrefundable fee, from the following, with a license or license renewal application:

A.1. Adult entertainment business:

a. adult club $750.00

b. adult arcade $750.00

c. adult theater $750.00

2. If more than one type of adult entertainment business is licensed on the same premises, the license fee is seven hundred fifty dollars for the first type and one hundred fifty dollars for each additional type.

B. Manager $ 75.00

C. Entertainer $ 75.00

D. Replacement license if original lost or destroyed $ 15.00

(Ord. 13548 § 11, 1999).

6.09.110 Adult clubs - facility specifications. An adult club shall meet the following facility specifications:

A. A live adult entertainment stage must be at least eighteen inches in elevation above the level of the customer area and at least ten feet from all areas of the premises to which a customer has access. To separate the customer area from the stage, a continuous railing at least three feet in height must be attached to the floor and located at least ten feet from all points of the live adult entertainment stage;

B. A live adult entertainment stage must be visible immediately on entering the adult club's seating area and visibility may not be blocked or obscured by a door, curtain, drape or other obstruction;

C. The premises must be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition;

D. Adult entertainment occurring on the premises of an adult club, or a pictorial representation of adult entertainment displaying nudity or sexual conduct, must not be visible from outside the business;

E. Sufficient lighting must be provided and equally distributed throughout the areas that are open to and used by customers such that, during hours of operation, all objects are plainly visible. “Sufficient lighting” means a minimum lighting level of thirty lux horizontal, measured at thirty inches from the floor and on ten-foot centers, for all areas open to and used by customers;

F. A door to an area on the premises that is available for use by a person other than the owner or manager, or both, or owner or manager’s agent or employee, may not be locked during business hours;

G. Restroom facilities provided for customers must be separate from those provided employees and entertainers; and

H. A sign must be conspicuously displayed inside every entrance to the adult club, that states as follows:

THIS ADULT ENTERTAINMENT BUSINESS IS REGULATED BY KING COUNTY CODE WHICH INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING PROHIBITIONS:

1. No person under eighteen years old shall be permitted on the premises.

2. No person is permitted to expose nudity or otherwise engage in an erotic performance except on a stage. No customer is permitted on stage or inside the railing, which is located at least ten feet from the stage.

3. No person is permitted to perform an offstage erotic performance.

4. No person shall engage in sexual conduct while on the premises.

5. A tip, gratuity or other payment offered to an entertainer performing on stage must be placed into a receptacle located outside the stage and setback area.

6. A violation is subject to criminal prosecution and civil penalties. (Ord. 13548 § 12, 1999).

6.09.120 Adult clubs - operating requirements and standards of conduct. On the premises of an adult club, the adult club and its business license holders, business control persons, managers, employees, entertainers and customers shall adhere to the following operating requirements and standards of conduct:

A. Business license holder and business control persons responsible. The adult entertainment business license holder and any business control persons shall be responsible for and shall assure that the conduct of the managers, entertainers, employees and customers of the adult club complies with this chapter;

B. Licensed manager required on premises. During all hours of operation, the adult club must have a licensed manager on duty stationed in a location from which the manager can view every live adult entertainment stage, stage setback area and customer area of the business;

C. Licensed manager responsible. The on-duty manager is responsible for and shall assure that the conduct of the entertainers, employees and customers of the adult club complies with this chapter;

D. Posting of licenses. The holder of the adult entertainment business license shall post the license in a conspicuous place at or near the entrance to the adult entertainment business so that the license can be easily read when the business is open. The manager shall post the manager's license next to the business license when on duty as the manager. An entertainer shall provide the entertainer's license to the manager on duty who shall maintain the entertainer’s license on the premises for immediate inspection when the entertainer is on the premises. The manager shall, on request by the director or any law enforcement officer, make available for inspection the license of an entertainer on the premises;

E. Records of entertainers and employees. The adult club must maintain, on a form prescribed by the director, a record by date and shift of the name, stage name if any, entertainer license number and date of birth of each person who worked as an employee or performed as an entertainer at the club. The record of each person must be retained for at least one year after the work or performance was performed at the club;

F. Prohibited hours of operation. The business license holder, business control person or manager may not operate the adult club, or allow the adult club to be open to customers, between two a.m. and ten a.m.;

G. Minors prohibited. An individual under eighteen years old may not be in or on the premises. The business license holder, business control person or manager may not permit or allow a person under eighteen years old to be in or on the premises;

H. Alcohol prohibited without a license. An individual may not possess, consume or serve an alcoholic beverage unless, and to the extent, the adult club is covered by a valid liquor license issued by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board;

I. Nudity and erotic performances permitted only on stage. An individual may not expose nudity or engage in any erotic performance except on a stage meeting the facility requirements of this chapter;

J. Sexual conduct prohibited. An individual may not engage in sexual conduct;

K. Obscene performances prohibited. An individual may not engage in an obscene performance;

L. Customers prohibited onstage or in stage setback area. A customer may not enter on the stage or the stage setback area;

M. Separate restroom facilities. An employee or entertainer may not enter a customer restroom and a customer may not enter an employee and entertainer restroom;

N. Tips, gratuities and payments to entertainers. An entertainer performing on a live adult entertainment stage may not accept a tip, gratuity or other payment offered directly to the entertainer by a customer. A tip, gratuity or other payment offered to an entertainer performing on a live adult entertainment stage must be placed into a receptacle located outside the stage and stage setback area provided through a manager on duty on the premises; and

O. Warning device prohibited. A person may not operate or maintain a warning device or system for the purpose of warning or aiding and abetting the warning of an entertainer, employee, customer or other person that the police, health, fire or building inspector or other public official is approaching or entered the premises. (Ord. 18728 § 13, 2018: Ord. 13548 § 13, 1999).

6.09.130 Adult arcades - facility specifications. An adult arcade must meet the following facility specifications:

A. All booths must be visible from the common area immediately inside an adult arcade's entrance unless the arcade is configured such that all the booths are located in a section of the premises dedicated solely for that purpose within the arcade, herein referred to as a "booth section". If the booths are located in a booth section within the arcade, all booths must be visible from the entrance to the booth section. The entrance to the booth section must be open to the arcade common area and may not be obstructed by a curtain, door, wall, merchandise, display rack or other material;

B. A booth may not exceed twelve square feet in size and may not be equipped with a door, curtain or screening device that prevents the manager, county inspector or law enforcement personnel from determining the number of individuals inside the booth. The bottom of any door, curtain or screening device on a booth must be at least twenty-four inches above the floor of the booth. The top of any door, curtain or screening device on a booth may not exceed sixty-six inches above the floor unless the door, curtain or screening device has an opening, or clear, clean window, at least twelve inches in height and twenty-four inches in width, located between sixty-six and seventy-eight inches above the floor of the booth, that provides an unobstructed view to the side walls and back wall of the booth. A booth door or other screening device may not be equipped with a locking device;

C. A chair or seating surface in a booth may not provide a seating surface of more than eighteen inches in either length or width and may not be higher than the bottom of a door, curtain or other screening device. There may not be more than one chair or seating surface in a booth;

D. If an individual is able to view a live performance from an arcade booth, the booth must be constructed so that the opening between the booth and the performance area is entirely covered by an immovable panel of transparent nonporous material that extends the full length and width of the opening, does not contain a hole and prevents contact between the individual in the booth and the entertainer;

E. An arcade may not contain a space for more than one person to view adult entertainment unless the space is licensed as, and meets the specifications for, an adult theater under this chapter;

F. A door to an area on the premises that is available for use by customers may not be locked during business hours;

G. Steps or risers are not allowed in a booth;

H. Sufficient lighting must be provided and equally distributed throughout the areas that are open to and used by customers such that, during hours of operation, all objects are plainly visible. “Sufficient lighting" means a minimum lighting level of thirty lux horizontal, measured at thirty inches from the floor and on ten-foot centers, for all areas open to and used by customers;

I. A restroom may not contain viewing equipment;

J. The floor, walls and ceiling surfaces in a booth must be made of nonporous, easily cleanable surfaces and may not consist of rugs or carpeting;

K. A ventilation device or hole in a booth must be covered by a permanently affixed ventilation cover. A ventilation hole may be located only within one foot from the top of or one foot from the bottom of the booth walls, or both. There may not be any other holes or openings in the booths;

L. The premises must be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition;

M. Adult entertainment provided on the premises of an adult arcade, or a pictorial representation of adult entertainment displaying nudity or sexual conduct, must not be visible from outside the business; and

N. A sign must be conspicuously displayed at the entrance to the arcade's booth section, if applicable, and in each booth, that states as follows:

THIS ADULT ENTERTAINMENT BUSINESS IS REGULATED BY KING COUNTY CODE WHICH INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING PROHIBITIONS:

1. No person under eighteen years old is permitted on the premises.

2. Masturbation and other sexual conduct are prohibited and unlawful on the premises.

3. More than one person may not occupy a booth at a time.

4. A violation is subject to criminal prosecution and civil penalties. (Ord. 13548 § 14, 1999).

6.09.140 Adult arcades - operating requirements and standards of conduct. On the premises of an adult arcade, the adult arcade and its business license holders, business control persons, managers, employees, entertainers and customers shall adhere to the operating requirements and standards of conduct specified in the following:

A. Business license holder and business control persons responsible. The adult entertainment business license holder and any business control person shall be responsible for and shall assure that the conduct of the managers, employees, entertainers and customers of the adult arcade complies with this chapter;

B. Licensed manager required on premises. The adult arcade must, during hours of operation, have a licensed manager on duty who is stationed in a location from which every booth and customer area of the business is visible at all times, either by direct line of sight or by continuous video monitoring;

C. Licensed manager responsible. The on-duty manager is responsible for and shall assure that the conduct of the entertainers, employees and customers of the adult arcade complies with this chapter;

E. Prohibited hours of operation. The adult arcade business license holder, business control person or manager may not operate the adult arcade or allow the adult arcade to be open to customers between two a.m. and ten a.m.;

F. Minors prohibited. An individual under eighteen years old may not be in or on the premises of the adult arcade. The adult arcade business license holder, business control person or manager may not permit or allow a person under eighteen years old to be in or on the premises;

G. Alcohol prohibited without license. An individual may not possess, consume or serve an alcoholic beverage in the adult arcade unless, and to the extent, the business is covered by a liquor license issued by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board;

H. Live performances. A live performance provided in the arcade must be conducted in a performance area that is inaccessible to a customer and separated from an individual in a booth in accordance with the facility specifications of this chapter;

I. Obscene performances prohibited. An obscene performance may not be displayed or exhibited;

J. Sexual conduct prohibited. An individual may not engage in sexual conduct;

K. Single occupancy of booths. An individual may not be present in a booth with one or more other individuals; and

L. Warning device prohibited. A person may not operate or maintain a warning device or system for the purpose of warning or aiding and abetting the warning of an employee, customer or other person that the police, health, fire or building inspector or other public official is approaching or entered the premises. (Ord. 18728 § 14, 2018: Ord. 13548 § 15, 1999).

6.09.150 Adult theaters - facility specifications. An adult theater must meet the following facility specifications:

A. The interior of an adult theater must be configured such that any entrance used by a customer shall open into a common area. All seats in a viewing area must be visible from the entrance to the viewing area without obstruction by a curtain, door, wall, merchandise, display rack or other material;

B. An area in an adult theater in which adult entertainment is viewed must contain at least eight seats. The seats must be permanently affixed to the floor and must all face the screen on which the adult entertainment is viewed;

C. Subject to seat availability, an adult theater viewing area must be open to any person entering the adult theater and may not be reserved for use by one or more customers. An adult theater may not admit more persons to a viewing area than the number of seats provided;

D. A door to an area on the premises that is available for use by a customer may not be locked during business hours;

E. A chair or seating surface may not provide a seating surface of more than eighteen inches in either length or width;

F. Sufficient lighting must be provided and equally distributed throughout the area that is open to and used by customers such that, during hours of operation, all objects are plainly visible. "Sufficient lighting" means a minimum lighting level of thirty lux horizontal, measured at thirty inches from the floor and on ten-foot centers, for all areas that are open to and used by customers. An adult theater that uses film projector technology may submit a written request to the director for permission to reduce the minimum lighting standard during the operation of the film projector. If the director finds that the specified lighting standard prevents the projection of the image onto the adult theater's screen, the director may reduce the lighting standard for the viewing area to a level that allows for the projection of the image while still providing sufficient lighting that all objects are plainly visible within the viewing area;

G. A restroom may not contain viewing equipment;

H. The premises must be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition;

I. Adult entertainment provided on the premises of the adult theater, or a pictorial representation of adult entertainment displaying nudity or sexual conduct, may not be visible from outside the business; and

J. A sign must be conspicuously displayed inside every entrance to an adult theater, that states as follows:

THIS ADULT ENTERTAINMENT BUSINESS IS REGULATED BY KING COUNTY CODE WHICH INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING PROHIBITIONS:

1. No person under eighteen years old is permitted on the premises.

2. Masturbation and other sexual conduct are prohibited and unlawful on the premises.

3. A violation is subject to criminal prosecution and civil penalties. (Ord. 13548 § 16, 1999).

6.09.160 Adult theaters - operating requirements and standards of conduct. On the premises of an adult theater, the adult theater and its business license holders, business control persons, managers, employees and customers shall adhere to the operating requirements and standards of conduct as specified in the following:

A. Business license holder and business control persons responsible. The adult entertainment business license holder and any business control person shall be responsible for and shall assure that the conduct of the managers, employees and customers of the adult theater complies with this chapter;

B. Licensed manager required on premises. The adult theater must have, during hours of operation, a licensed manager on duty who is stationed in a location from which every viewing area and all customer areas of the business are visible at all times either by direct line of sight or by continuous video monitoring;

C. Licensed manager responsible. The on-duty manager is responsible for and shall assure that the conduct of the employees and customers of the adult theater complies with this chapter;

D. Posting of licenses. The holder of an adult entertainment business license shall post the license in a conspicuous place at or near the entrance to the adult entertainment business so that the license can be easily read when the business is open. The manager shall post the manager's license next to the business license when on duty as the manager;

E. Prohibited hours of operation. The adult theater business license holder, business control person or manager may not operate the adult theater or allow the adult theater to be open to customers between two a.m. and ten a.m.;

F. Minors prohibited. An individual under eighteen years old may not be in or on the premises of the adult theater. An adult theater business license holder, business control person or manager may not permit or allow a person under eighteen years old to be in or on the premises;

G. Alcohol prohibited without license. An individual may not possess, consume or serve an alcoholic beverage in the adult theater unless, and to the extent, the business is covered by a liquor license issued by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board;

H. Obscene performances prohibited. An obscene performance may not be displayed or exhibited in the adult theater;

I. Sexual conduct prohibited. An individual may not engage in sexual conduct; and

J. Warning device prohibited. A person may not operate or maintain a warning device or system for the purpose of warning or aiding and abetting the warning of an employee, customer or other person that the police, health, fire or building inspector or other public official is approaching or entered the premises. (Ord. 18728 § 15, 2018: Ord. 13548 § 17, 1999).

6.09.170 Permission to inspect. An adult entertainment business shall permit the director and personnel from the sheriff's office to conduct unannounced inspections, during the hours when the business is open, of all exterior and interior areas of the business premises open to and used by customers and all books and records required to be kept under this chapter. The purpose of such inspections is to determine if the business is being conducted in compliance with this chapter. (Ord. 13548 § 18, 1999).

6.09.180 Grounds for suspension and revocation of licenses.

A. The director may suspend or revoke a license issued under this chapter in accordance with the following:

1. If a licensee obtained or renewed the license through a false, misleading or fraudulent omission or representation of material fact either on the application for the license or renewal or by failing to modify or supplement the application as required by K.C.C. 6.090140D, the license shall be revoked;

2.a. If a licensee violated other provisions of this chapter, the license shall be:

(1) suspended for thirty days on the first violation within twenty-four months of a prior violation,

(2) suspended for ninety days on the second violation within a twenty four month period, and

(3) revoked for a third violation within a twenty-four month period.

b. Time spent serving a suspension is not counted in determining the twenty-four month period referred to in subsection A.2a of this section.

c. For a business licensee, a violation for which the business license may be suspended or revoked includes a violation of this chapter by an employee, agent or entertainer occurring on the business premises when the business licensee knew or should have known of the violation; and

3.a. If a licensee is convicted of committing on the premises of an adult entertainment business a crime or offense involving one of the following, the license shall be revoked.

(1) a violation of chapter 9A.88 RCW, Indecent Exposure – Prostitution,

(2) a liquor law violation or a transaction involving a controlled substance as defined in chapter 69.50 RCW, or

(3) a violation of chapter 9A.44 RCW, Sex Offenses, chapter 9.68 RCW, Obscenity and Pornography or chapter 9.68A RCW, Sexual Exploitation of Children.

b. For a business licensee, a conviction for which the business license may be revoked includes the conviction of an employee, agent or entertainer for a crime or offense listed in subsection A.3a of this section occurring on the business premises when the business licensee knew or should have known of the crime or offense.

c. For purposes of this subsection A.3, "convicted" or "conviction" includes a bail forfeiture accepted by the court as the final disposition of the criminal charge.

B. A licensee whose license has been revoked is not eligible to reapply for the license for one year following the date the decision to revoke is final.

C. The director shall effect a suspension, revocation or disqualification by issuing a notice and order in accordance with K.C.C. 6.01.130.

D. On receipt of a notice and order of suspension or revocation, the license holder shall promptly deliver the license to the director unless an appeal is pending under this chapter. For a license suspension, the director shall return the license to the license holder for the license’s remaining term on expiration of the suspension. (Ord. 13548 § 19, 1999).

6.09.190 Appeal of license denial, suspension and revocation.

A. A person whose application for a license has been denied by the director may appeal the denial to the office of the hearing examiner in accordance with K.C.C. 6.01.150 as modified by the following, which shall apply to the appeals:

1. The examiner shall hold a hearing on a timely filed appeal not less than ten days nor more than twenty days from the date the appeal was filed with the director, unless the person filing the appeal agrees to a hearing at a later date;

2. During the course of the proceeding before the examiner, the burden of proof shall be on the director;

3. The examiner shall render a written decision on the appeal not more than thirty days after the close of the hearing; and

4. A person need not appeal the director’s denial of a license to the examiner before seeking court review. In the event a person files an action seeking court review of the director’s denial or files an action seeking court review of a decision of the examiner upholding the denial, either in an action brought in superior court under chapter 7.16 RCW or in any other action at law or equity, the county shall provide the person with an opportunity for a prompt court review and decision by: in an action to review the decision of the examiner, filing the record of the examiner with the court within twenty days after receipt of the writ of review; and in any case, expediting the filing of responsive pleadings and proposing an expedited briefing and hearing schedule with the objective of obtaining a final determination from the court within sixty days after commencement of the action. If the court has not entered a final determination within sixty days or such a longer time as may have been agreed to by the person challenging the license denial, the director shall issue a temporary license which shall be valid only until the court renders its determination either affirming the license denial or requiring the issuance of an annual license. A person issued such a temporary license shall be subject to all the provisions of this chapter including but not limited to the license suspension and revocation provisions.

B. An action of the director taken under this chapter suspending or revoking a license or denying a license renewal may be appealed in accordance with the procedures in K.C.C. 6.01.150. However, the following also applies:

1. If the director determines that a condition exists on the premises of an adult entertainment business which condition constitutes a threat of immediate serious injury or damage to a person or property, a business license may be immediately suspended. The director shall issue a notice setting forth the basis for the action and the facts that constitute a threat of serious injury or damage to a person or property and informing the license holder of the right to appeal the suspension. A suspension based on threat of immediate serious injury or damage may not be stayed during the pendency of an appeal;

2. During the course of proceeding before the examiner, the burden of proof is on the director; and

3. Enforcement of a notice and order of the director shall be stayed during the pendency of a timely and properly filed action seeking judicial review of a decision of the examiner. (Ord. 18230 § 80, 2016: Ord. 13548 § 20, 1999).

6.09.200 Nonobscene performances, dramatic works, classes, seminars or lectures not prohibited. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prohibit:

A. A performance that is not obscene;

B. A play, opera, musical or other dramatic work that is not obscene; or

C. A class, seminar or lecture held for serious scientific or educational purposes. (Ord. 13548 § 21, 1999).

6.09.210 Preexisting nonconforming configuration. Premises operating under an adult entertainment license and in compliance with facility specifications in K.C.C. chapter 6.08 on June 20, 1999, may remain in compliance with such specifications for six months thereafter, after which the premises must comply with the facility specifications in this chapter. (Ord. 13548 § 22, 1999).

6.09.220 Limitations of liability. This chapter is not intended to create a cause of action or provide the basis for a claim against the county, its officials or its employees for the performance or the failure to perform a duty or obligation running to a specific individual or specific individuals. A duty or obligation created under this chapter is intended to be a general duty or obligation running in favor of the general public. (Ord. 13548 § 23, 1999).

6.09.230 Criminal penalty. A person violating this chapter is, on conviction, guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be subject to a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars or imprisonment in the county jail for not more than ninety days, or both. (Ord. 13548 § 24, 1999).

6.09.240 Civil penalty. In addition to or as an alternative to any other penalty provided in this chapter or by law, a person who violates this chapter is subject to a civil penalty not to exceed one thousand dollars per violation, to be directly assessed by the director. The director, in a reasonable manner, may vary the amount of the penalty assessed by considering: the appropriateness of the penalty to the size of the business of the violator; the gravity of the violation; the number of past and present violations committed; and the good faith of the violator in attempting to achieve compliance after notification of the violation. A civil penalty assessed must be enforced and collected in accordance with the procedure specified under this title. (Ord. 13548 § 25, 1999).

6.09.250 Additional remedies. Notwithstanding the existence or use of any other remedy, the director may seek legal or equitable relief to enjoin an act or practice that constitutes or will constitute a violation of this chapter or an applicable rule adopted under this title. (Ord. 13548 § 26, 1999).

6.09.260 Liquor regulations. Title 66 RCW, Alcoholic Beverage Control, and the rules of the Washington State Liquor Control Board govern to the extent they conflict with this chapter. The provisions of this chapter that refer to the minimum age of eighteen, including but not limited to the provisions relating to the required signs, require a minimum age of twenty-one as applied to an adult entertainment business that is licensed by the Washington State Liquor Control State Board. (Ord. 13548 § 27, 1999).

6.09.270 Construction and severability. This chapter governs to the extent it conflicts with K.C.C. chapter 6.01. If any portion of this chapter or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the chapter or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected. (Ord. 13548 § 28, 1999).

6.12 POOL AND BILLIARD TABLES

Sections:

6.12.010 License required ‑ Nontransferable.

6.12.020 Definitions.

6.12.030 Coin operated.

6.12.040 Identification numbers.

6.12.050 License requirements.

6.12.060 License fees.

6.12.070 Renewal of license, registration or permit ‑ Late penalty.

6.12.080 Civil penalty.

6.12.090 Violations and penalties.

6.12.100 Additional enforcement.

6.12.010 License required ‑ Nontransferable. No person shall own or operate a pool or billiard table on any premises, sell or distribute coin operated pool or billiard table for the use of which a fee is charged unless a license is obtained pursuant to the terms of this chapter. Any license issued under the terms of this chapter shall not be transferable to any person, persons or corporations other than that designated on the license. Any license issued to an operator shall apply to a single location only. (Ord. 1294 § 1, 1972).

6.12.020 Definitions. For the purpose of this chapter and unless the context plainly requires otherwise the following definitions are adopted:

A. A "billiard table" is a raised oblong felt covered table with raised cushioned edges, or any substantially similar device on which is played the game known as billiards or pool involving the use of a long tapering stick called a cue to propel pool or billiard balls;

B. A "pool table" is a billiard table with a pocket in each corner and at the middle of both sides, used for playing pool, the game wherein numbered balls are propelled into the pockets by persons using a cue;

C. An "operator" is a person who owns, operates or controls any pool or billiard table. An operator who owns or leases the person's place of business shall be allowed to own and operate the person's own pool tables and billiard tables upon compliance with this chapter; and

D. A "vendor" is any person or firm or agent thereof that distributes or sells coin operated pool tables or billiard tables. (Ord. 18728 § 16, 2018: Ord. 1888 Art. V § 10, 1974; Ord. 1294 § 2, 1972).

6.12.030 Coin operated. Pool tables and billiard tables shall be activated by the player by the insertion of a coin into a locked coin chute device or by a device under the control of the owner or designee. (Ord. 18728 § 17, 2018: Ord. 1294 § 3, 1972).

6.12.040 Identification numbers. The director shall prescribe the method by which an identification number shall be assigned to each pool or billiard table. The identification number shall be permanently fixed by the director's representative in a place where it can be readily inspected. (Ord. 1294 § 4, 1972).

6.12.050 License requirements.

A. Each applicant for a license under the provisions of this chapter shall complete an application prepared by the director which shall include the following information: The name and address of the applicant, and if a corporation, the names and addresses of the officers thereof; a description of the kind of activity that will be conducted under the authority of the license; complete information as requested by the director concerning the ownership, and the name of business under which the activity is to be conducted; a declaration of any conviction of any laws relating to gambling or involving moral turpitude in which an intent to defraud was an element of the crime or of any law or ordinance relating to the use, sale or possession of narcotic or dangerous drugs or any substances controlled by the Washington State Board of Pharmacy, or any other such information the director may require which is reasonably necessary to aid in the enforcement of this chapter.

B. All applicants shall comply with building, planning, zoning and fire codes of King County and with any rules or regulations set forth by the state of Washington Liquor Control Board and all applicable consumer protection laws and must conform to RCW 26.28.080 and a showing of compliance with these regulations shall be required, where applicable, before a license under this chapter is issued, and violation thereof may be grounds for suspension or revocation of license. (Ord. 1294 § 5, 1972).

6.12.060 License fees.

A. For pool tables and billiard tables operating in a business establishment, the fee shall be one hundred dollars per table, up to a five-hundred-dollar maximum per establishment.

All licenses shall expire one year from the date of application. Any person purchasing a coin operated pool table must show by receipt, bill of sale or contract or letter that the table was purchased from a licensed vendor before a license shall be issued to the purchaser.

B. A vendor shall pay an annual license fee of one hundred dollars from date of issuance of license. (Ord. 18728 § 18, 2018: Ord. 10170 § 5, 1991: Ord. 5889 § 1, 1982: Ord. 5799 § 2, 1981: Ord. 1294 § 6, 1972).

6.12.070 Renewal of license, registration or permit ‑ Late penalty. A late penalty shall be charged on all applications for renewal of a license, registration or permit received later than ten working days after the expiration date of such license, registration or permit as set forth in the respective resolution or ordinance establishing the expiration date of such license, registration or permit. The amount of such penalty is fixed as follows:

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty cents or more, but less than fifty dollars ‑ twenty percent of the required fee.

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty dollars or more, but less than one thousand dollars ‑ ten percent of the required fee.

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of one thousand dollars or more ‑ five percent of the required fee. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 3, 1974).

6.12.080 Civil penalty. In addition to or as an alternative to any other penalty provided herein or by law any person who violates any provision of any business license ordinance shall be subject to a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars per violation to be directly assessed by the director. The director, in a reasonable manner, may vary the amount of the penalty assessed to consider the appropriateness of the penalty to the size of the business of the violator; the gravity of the violation; the number of past and present violations committed and the good faith of the violator in attempting to achieve compliance after notification of the violation. All civil penalties assessed will be enforced and collected in accordance with the procedure specified under this title. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 1, 1974).

6.12.090 Violations and penalties. Any person violating or failing to comply with any of the provisions of this chapter is deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punishable by a fine in any sum not exceeding two hundred fifty dollars or by imprisonment in the county jail for a period not exceeding ninety days. (Ord. 1294 § 9, 1972).

6.12.100 Additional enforcement. Notwithstanding the existence or use of any other remedy, the director may seek legal or equitable relief to enjoin any acts or practices which constitute or will constitute a violation of any business license ordinance or other regulations herein adopted. (Ord. 1888 Art IV § 2, 1974).

6.16 CLOSING OUT SALES

Sections:

6.16.010 Definitions generally.

6.16.020 Sale defined.

6.16.030 Advertise, advertisement, advertising, publish, publication, represent, representation defined.

6.16.040 Inspector, investigator defined.

6.16.050 Goods defined.

6.16.060 License required.

6.16.070 Conditions for issuance.

6.16.080 Application for license.

6.16.090 Issuance.

6.16.100 License fee - bond.

6.16.110 License conditions.

6.16.115 losing out a sales license - fee.

6.16.120 License renewal.

6.16.130 Renewal of license, registration or permit ‑ Late penalty.

6.16.140 General rules and regulations.

6.16.150 Commingling of goods.

6.16.160 Removal of goods - loss of identity.

6.16.170 Inspection of premises.

6.16.180 Records.

6.16.190 Duties of licensee.

6.16.200 Persons exempted.

6.16.210 Penalties for violation.

6.16.220 Civil penalty.

6.16.230 Additional enforcement.

6.16.010 Definitions generally. For the purposes of this chapter, the following terms, phrases, words and their derivations shall be deemed to mean and be construed herein as follows in this chapter. (Res. 30983 § 1 (part), 1965).

6.16.020 Sale defined. "Sale" means the following:

A. Any sale of or any offer to sell to the public, goods, wares or merchandise, on order, in connection with the declared purpose as set forth by representing or advertising that such sale is anticipatory to or is to avoid the termination, liquidation, revision, windup, discontinuance, dissolution or abandonment of a business or portion of the business conducted at any location.

B. Any sale accompanied by representation or advertising indicating an economic or business emergency or failure affecting the seller or any previous holder of the goods to be disposed of.

C. Any sale accompanied by representation or advertising which in any manner does or is intended to convey to the public the belief that upon disposal of the goods to be placed on sale, the business or a portion thereof being conducted at any location is contemplated to be or will be interrupted or removed and changed.

D. Any sale represented or advertised which in any manner does or is intended to indicate that the goods, wares or merchandise to be sold, or any part thereof, has been involved in any business failure or has been derived from a business which has failed, been closed, discontinued or liquidated.

E. Any sale represented or advertised which does or is intended to indicate that the goods, wares, merchandise to be sold, or any part thereof, are goods damaged or altered by fire, smoke, water or other means.

F. Any sale pursuant to the aforementioned definitions, including but not limited to a sale which is represented, advertised or held forth in any of the following terms: "Adjustor's sale," "adjustment sale," "assignee's sale," "bankrupt sale," "benefit of administrator's sale," "benefit of creditor's sale," "benefit of trustee's sale," "building coming down sale," "closing sale," "closing out sale," "consolidation sale," "creditors' committee sale," "creditors' sale," "discontinuance of business sale," "executor's sale," "final days sale," "fire sale," "forced out sale," "forced out of business sale," "going out of business sale," "insolvent sale," "insurance salvage sale," "last days sale," "lease expires sale," "lease expiring sale," "liquidation sale," "loss of lease sale," "merger sale," "mortgage sale," "must vacate sale," "quitting business sale," "receiver's sale," "removal sale," "reorganization sale," "salvage sale," "selling out sale," "smoke sale," "smoke and water damage sale," "trustee's sale," "water damage sale," "wholesale closing out sale," "we quit sale," "we give up sale," "fixtures for sale," or advertised or represented by any other expression or designation similar to any of the foregoing and calculated to convey the same meaning. (Res. 30983 § 1 (part), 1965).

6.16.030 Advertise, advertisement, advertising, publish, publication, represent, representation defined. "Advertise," "advertisement," "advertising," "publish," "publication," "represent," "representation" means any and all means, whether oral, written, lettered or printed, used to convey to the public notice of the conduct of a sale as defined in Section 6.16.020, or notice of intention to conduct such sale, including but not limited to oral or written announcements by proclamation or outcry, newspaper advertisement, magazine advertisement, handbill, written or printed notice, printed display, billboard display, poster, radio and television announcement. (Res. 30983 § 1 (part), 1965).

6.16.040 Inspector, investigator defined. "Inspector" or "investigator" means an inspector or investigator appointed by and/or authorized by the director. (Ord. 1888 Art. V § 11, 1974: Res. 30983 § 1 (part), 1965).

6.16.050 Goods defined. "Goods" means any goods, wares, merchandise or other property capable of being the object of a sale as regulated herein. (Res. 30983 § 1 (part), 1965).

6.16.060 License required. It is unlawful for any person to advertise, publish, represent or conduct any sale of goods as defined in Sections 6.16.010 through 6.16.080 in the unincorporated areas of King County unless a license has been obtained as hereinafter provided. (Res. 30983 § 2, 1965).

6.16.070 Conditions for issuance. A person shall not be granted a license if one or more of the following applies to the person:

A. The person has not been the owner of a business advertised or described in the application for a license hereunder for a period of at least ninety days prior to the date of the application; provided, upon the death of a person doing business, the person's heirs, devisees or legatees shall have the right to apply at any time for a license;

B. The person has held a sale, as regulated by this chapter, at the location stated in the application for license within six months from the date of such applications; [and]*

C. The person has been convicted of violating this chapter or any part hereof, or a person who employs another person for the conduct of the sale as regulated by this chapter who has been convicted of violating this chapter within a period of one year prior to the date of the application for a license. (Ord. 18728 § 19, 2018: Res. 30983 § 3, 1965).

*Reviser's note: Added in Ordinance 18728 but not underlined as required in K.C.C. 1.24.075.

6.16.080 Application for license. No license to conduct a sale shall be granted except upon written application to the director which shall be signed and sworn to by the person who intends to conduct the sale or designee. Such application shall contain the following:

A. The true name, home address and business address of the owner of the goods to be the object of the sale and the true name, home address and business address of the person who shall conduct the sale if not the owner of the goods;

B. Whether the proposed sale is to be held at the applicant's or owner's existing, regularly established place of business;

C. Description, by street address or location, and kind of building where such sale is to be held;

D. The nature of the occupancy, whether by ownership, lease or sublease, and, if by lease or sublease, the effective date of the termination of the lease or sublease;

E. The dates when such sale is to be conducted;

F. A copy of all advertisements or a statement of all advertising themes to be used in connection with such sale and a statement of the means or methods of advertising to be used in advertising such sale;

G. A full and complete statement of the facts in regard to the sale, including the reason for the urgent and expeditious disposal of goods thereby and the manner in which the sale will be conducted;

H. A complete and detailed inventory setting forth the amount and description of goods to be sold at such sale, and the date of acquisition of such goods and the name and address of the person from whom obtained and the place from which such goods were last taken. The inventory shall be attached to and become part of the required application. The director may require in addition that all goods listed upon the inventory be so described in detail by manufacturer's name and lot number, the individual number of articles so numbered, colors, sizes and otherwise that the identity of such goods with the goods listed on such inventory can be readily determined. In addition, the director may require a listing of each article to be sold together with an inventory number for each article;

I. A showing that the applicant has made a return to the King County assessor of the property in the applicant's possession or ownership and the value thereof for tax assessment purposes, and that the applicant has paid any tax due; and

J. Such other information as the director may require. (Ord. 18728 § 20, 2018: Ord. 1888 Art. V § 13, 1974: Ord. 1604 § 1, 1973: Res. 30983 § 4, 1965).

6.16.090 Issuance. Upon filing of the application, the director may make or cause to be made an examination, audit or investigation of the applicant and the applicant's affairs in relation to the proposed sale. If the director finds that the statements in the application are true, that the inventory is complete, that the advertising or advertising theme set forth is not false, fraudulent, deceptive or misleading in any respect, and that the methods to be used by the applicant in conducting the sale are not such as, in the opinion of the director, will work a fraud upon the purchasers, the director shall issue a license to conduct such sale in accordance with this chapter. However, the director may refuse to issue a license because of the insufficiency of the information set forth in the application, but in such event the applicant shall be permitted to file an amended application. Also, no license shall be issued until the applicant shows that the applicant has made a return to the King County assessor of the property in the applicant's possession or ownership and the value thereof for tax assessment purposes and has paid any tax due. (Ord. 18728 § 21, 2018: Ord. 1888 Art. V § 13, 1974: Ord. 1604 § 2, 1973: Res. 30983 § 5, 1965).

6.16.100 License fee - bond. All applications for license must be made at least sixty days and not more than ninety days before the date the sale is to commence; and the applicant shall file with the director a bond in a form approved by the director, executed by a surety company authorized to do business in this state, in an amount equal to one-half of the cost value of the goods inventoried for sale, the bond shall be approved by the director. The bond shall run to the county of King, state of Washington, and shall state that it is for the use or benefit of persons who may be damaged by the violation of this chapter by the licensee, the licensee's employees or agents, or who may have a cause of action against the licensee, the licensee's employees or agents, by reason of any matters arising out of the conduct of the sale. Any such person shall have, in addition to any other right of action, a right of action on such bond for all damages not exceeding one thousand dollars, and the aggregate liability of the surety upon the bond for all claims that may arise thereunder shall not exceed the sum specified in the bond. The director shall, upon compliance with all the requirements set forth in this chapter, issue a license to hold a sale as provided in this chapter, except that any person who has been conducting a business in the same location where the sale is to be held for a period of not less than one year, prior to the date of the application for a license under this chapter, shall be excepted from the filing of the bond under this section. (Ord. 18728 § 22, 2018: Ord. 1888 Art. V § 14, 1974: Res. 30983 § 6, 1965).

6.16.110 License conditions. Any license issued under the provisions of this title shall authorize the type of sale named in the application, at the place named therein, for a period of not more than thirty consecutive days, Sundays and legal holidays excluded, and shall permit the sale of goods which are set forth in the application and inventory, all of which goods throughout the duration of the sale must be definitely separated by partition or temporary partition from any other goods displayed at, or within the store or place of business, and all advertising, signs or notices referred to or calling attention to the sale must be confined to the display, or displayed goods involved in the sale. (Res. 30983 § 7, 1965).

6.16.115 Closing out a sales license - fee. The fee for closing out a sales license shall be as follows:

Original license $300.00

1st 30 day renewal 200.00

2nd 30 day renewal 200.00

(Ord. 10170 § 6, 1991).

6.16.120 License renewal. The director may, upon a verified application therefor renew the license for a period not to exceed thirty days, upon payment of a renewal fee in the amount of two hundred dollars. Such verified application for renewal shall set forth a complete list of goods listed in the original application and remaining unsold, and shall certify that it does not contain any goods not named in such original application. Upon receipt of such application, the director may cause an investigation to be made, and if satisfied of the truth of the statements contained therein, the director shall grant such renewal within fifteen days after such application, which shall be endorsed and signed as provided for in the original license. The director may renew any original license in the manner above provided, not to exceed two times, upon the payment of the sum of two hundred dollars for such renewal; provided, however, that the director may not issue licenses or renewals which will allow the conduct of any sale as provided herein at any one location for more than ninety consecutive days, Sundays and legal holidays excluded, in any one twelve‑month period. (Ord. 1888 Art. V § 15, 1974: Res. 30983 § 8, 1965).

6.16.130 Renewal of license, registration or permit - late penalty. A late penalty shall be charged on all applications for renewal of a license, registration or permit received later than ten working days after the expiration date of such license, registration or permit as set forth in the respective resolution or ordinance establishing the expiration date of such license, registration or permit. The amount of such penalty is fixed as follows:

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty cents or more, but less than fifty dollars ‑ twenty percent of the required fee.

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty dollars or more, but less than one thousand dollars ‑ ten percent of the required fee.

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of one thousand dollars or more ‑ five percent of the required fee. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 3, 1974).

6.16.140 General rules and regulations. The license as issued pursuant to this chapter shall be valid only for the advertising, representations and sale of the particular goods, wares or merchandise described in the original application therefor, and at the particular time, and particular place stated therein and by the particular applicant or the particular applicant's executor or administrator, and any renewal, replenishment or substitution of such goods, wares or merchandise, change of such time or place for such sale or change of person conducting the sale, is unlawful and shall render such license void. (Ord. 18728 § 23, 2018: Res. 30983 § 9 (part), 1965).

6.16.150 Commingling of goods. No person in contemplation of conducting any sale, or during the continuance of such a sale, shall order any goods for the purpose of commingling or selling them at such sale, and any unusual purchase or additions to the stock within ninety days before the filing of such application for a license to conduct such a sale shall be presumptive evidence that such purchase or additions were made in contemplation of such sale and for the purpose of commingling or selling them at such sale. (Res. 30983 § 9 (part), 1965).

6.16.160 Removal of goods ‑ Loss of identity. Any removal of any goods, wares or merchandise inventoried and described in the original application form from the place of sale mentioned in such application shall cause such goods to lose their identity as the stock of any of the sales defined herein, and no license thereafter will be issued for the conducting of a sale of any goods, wares or merchandise in such manner as to identify them with the store, store name, store owner or location referred to in the original application. (Res. 30983 § 9 (part), 1965).

6.16.170 Inspection of premises. A duplicate original of the application and stock inventory, pursuant to which such license was issued, shall at all times be available to the director at the place of such sale and the holder of the license shall permit the director to examine all merchandise in the premises for comparison with such stock inventory. (Ord. 1888 Art. V § 16, 1974: Res. 30983 § 9 (part), 1965).

6.16.180 Records. Suitable books and records, including total receipts of both cash and credit sales, shall be kept by the licensee and shall at all times be available to the director for inspection. (Ord. 18728 § 24, 2018: Ord. 1888 Art. V § 74, 1974: Res. 30983 § 9 (part), 1965).

6.16.190 Duties of licensee. A licensee, the licensee's employees and agents shall:

A. Not sell goods at a sale for which the application was obtained unless the goods were listed in the inventory accompanying the application;

B. Represent to the public the true manufacture, quality and kind of the goods. If requested by anyone, a copy of the inventory will be shown; and

C. Not cause to be sold goods that have been falsely described or concerning which any false statement has been made. (Ord. 18728 § 25, 2018: Res. 30983 § 9 (part), 1965).

6.16.200 Persons exempted. The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to or affect the following persons:

A. Persons acting pursuant to an order or process of a court of competent jurisdiction;

B. Persons acting in accordance with their powers and duties as public officials;

C. Persons conducting jewelry and appliance auctions in accordance with RCW Chapter 18.12;

D. Persons conducting a sale of the type regulated herein on the effective date of this chapter, unless such sale is continued for a period of more than thirty days from and after such effective date, in which event, such person, at the lapse of the thirty day period, shall comply with the provisions of this chapter;

E. Any publisher of a newspaper, magazine or other publication or radio or television station, who publishes any such advertisement in good faith, without knowledge of its false, deceptive or misleading character, or without knowledge that the provisions of this chapter have not been complied with. (Res. 30983 § 11, 1965).

6.16.210 Penalties for violation. Every person as principal, agent or otherwise, failing, neglecting or refusing to comply with any provision of this chapter, or violating the same, is guilty of a misdemeanor. Each separate sale or offering for sale of goods, wares or merchandise in violation of the provisions of this chapter shall constitute a separate offense hereunder. (Res. 30983 § 12, 1965).

6.16.220 Civil penalty. In addition to or as an alternative to any other penalty provided herein or by law any person who violates any provision of any business license ordinance shall be subject to a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars per violation to be directly assessed by the director. The director, in a reasonable manner, may vary the amount of the penalty assessed to consider the appropriateness of the penalty to the size of the business of the violator; the gravity of the violation; the number of past and present violations committed and the good faith of the violator in attempting to achieve compliance after notification of the violation. All civil penalties assessed will be enforced and collected in accordance with the procedure specified under this title. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 1, 1974).

6.16.230 Additional enforcement. Notwithstanding the existence or use of any other remedy, the director may seek legal or equitable relief to enjoin any acts or practices which constitute or will constitute a violation of any business license ordinance or other regulations herein adopted. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 2, 1974).

6.20 DANCES

Sections:

6.20.004 General Provisions ‑ Applicability.

6.20.010 Definitions.

6.20.020 Dance or dance hall license or permit ‑ Required ‑ Exceptions.

6.20.030 Dance hall license ‑ Application.

6.20.040 Dance permit ‑ Application.

6.20.050 Dance hall license ‑ Investigation.

6.20.060 Dance or dance hall ‑ Prerequisites to license or permit issuance.

6.20.070 Hours of operation.

6.20.072 Public youth dance ‑ Hours of operation ‑ Age restrictions ‑ Penalty.

6.20.074 Public youth dance ‑ Readmission fee.

6.20.080 Fees.

6.20.090 Denial of license or permit.

6.20.100 Suspension or revocation of license or permit.

6.20.110 Transferability of license or permit.

6.20.120 Civil penalty.

6.20.130 Additional enforcement.

6.20.140 Licensing ‑ Retroactivity.

6.20.004 General provisions ‑ Applicability. This chapter is subject to the general licensing provisions of Chapter 6.01, King County code. In the event of a conflict between this chapter and Chapter 6.01, the provisions of this chapter shall apply. The provisions of this chapter shall be construed liberally for the accomplishment of the purposes thereof. Nothing contained in this chapter shall be deemed to repeal or modify any of the provisions of any other law or county ordinance relating to dance halls or licensing. (Ord. 7832 § 2, 1986).

6.20.010 Definitions. For the purpose of this chapter and unless the context plainly requires otherwise the following definitions are adopted:

A. "Public dance" means any dance which is open to the public and which is held and conducted for a profit, direct or indirect.

B. "Public youth dance" means any public dance that is readily accessible to the public and which permits the entry of any persons under the age of eighteen years. For the purposes of this chapter, the term "public dance" shall be construed so as to include all "public youth dances" except where specifically indicated otherwise.

C. "Public dance hall" means any place where a public dance is conducted, operated or maintained and includes the premises on which the public dance is conducted, operated or maintained and any and all areas attached to or adjacent to such premises including, but not limited to, all parking areas, hallways, bathrooms and all adjoining areas on the premises accessible to the public during the dance. (Ord. 7832 § 3, 1986: Ord. 2095 § 1, 1974).

6.20.020 Dance or dance hall license or permit ‑ Required ‑ Exceptions.

A. It is unlawful for any person to conduct, operate or maintain a public dance or public dance hall unless the person who is conducting, operating or maintaining such public dance or public dance hall has obtained a license or permit in the manner prescribed in this chapter.

B. Exceptions. The requirements of this chapter shall not apply if:

1. The public dance is sponsored by an accredited educational institution; or

2. The public dance is sponsored by a nonprofit tax exempt organization, corporation or association recognized by the United States of America as exempt from federal income taxation pursuant to 501(c) (1) or (3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, 26 U.S.C. 501 as now existing or hereafter amended.

C. County Agency Operation. If the public dance hall is managed or operated by a King County government agency, the requirements of this chapter may be waived by the director by rule adopted pursuant to Chapter 2.98, K.C.C. upon written application by the chief officer of the agency. (Ord. 7832 § 4, 1986: Ord. 2095 § 2, 1974).

6.20.030 Dance hall license ‑ Application.

A. The person desiring to conduct, operate or maintain a public dance hall on a yearly or six-month basis shall be responsible for obtaining a public dance hall license from the director.

B. Renewal applications for a public dance hall license (yearly or six-month) shall be made in writing on forms provided by the director at least fourteen days prior to the expiration date of the existing license.

C. Each applicant for a license shall complete an application form prepared by the director which shall include the following information:

1. The name and address of the applicant;

2. If the applicant is a corporation or a partnership the names and addresses of the officers or directors thereof;

3. The name and address of the owner or owners of the premises upon which the dance hall is located;

4. The name of the business under which the activity is to be conducted;

5. A declaration by the applicant or, if the applicant is a corporation or a partnership, the officers, directors, or partners, of any conviction within the past five years from the date of application of any of the crimes enumerated in K.C.C. 6.20.090, subparagraph A.2.; and

6. Any other information the director may require to aid in the implementation and enforcement of this chapter. (Ord. 7832 § 5, 1986: Ord. 2095 § 3, 1974).

6.20.040 Dance permit ‑ Application.

A. The person desiring to conduct, operate or maintain a one-night public dance, whether on premises licensed as a public dance hall or not, is responsible for obtaining a one-night public dance permit from the director, at least fourteen days prior to the date the dance is to be held, for each such one-night public dance.

B. Each applicant shall be issued a permit upon completion of an application form which includes:

1. Name of organization holding dance;

2. Location of dance;

3. Approval of King County fire marshal. (Ord. 2095 § 4, 1974).

6.20.050 Dance hall license ‑ Investigation. Upon the filing of an application for a public dance hall license, the director shall refer the same to the King County department of public safety for investigation of the statements contained in such application. A written report containing the results of the department of public safety investigation shall be furnished to the director if requested. (Ord. 2095 § 5, 1974).

6.20.060 Dance or dance hall ‑ Prerequisites to license or permit issuance. Applicants must comply with the building, zoning, planning and fire codes of King County and with any rules or regulations set forth by the state of Washington Liquor Control Board. A written report that the applicant has complied with these codes and regulations shall be furnished to the director before a license or permit under this chapter is issued. Applicants must submit, for any dance or dance hall where the expected attendance will exceed one thousand people based on past experience or the statement of the applicant, such information as deemed appropriate by the department of public safety to insure adequate traffic control and crowd protection policing either arranged through private security agencies or has been contracted for with the department of public safety. A written notice that the applicant has complied with the requirement shall be issued by the director before a dance or dance hall permit or license is issued; provided, that permits or licenses issued prior to the effective date of the ordinance codified herein shall entitle the holder of such permit or license a period of thirty days, following the effective date to comply with the traffic control and crowd protection requirement; provided, further, that if the applicant should contract for traffic control and crowd protection policing with King County, in no event should the sum agreed upon in payment for such policing be less than the actual expense incurred by the county in providing that service. Such consideration shall be calculated for personnel resources on the hourly rate for overtime under the current collective bargaining agreement, plus that percentage then being paid for fringe benefits, and all sums paid under such contract shall be paid in accordance with procedures specified by the King County comptroller. (Ord. 4270 § 1, 1979: Ord. 2095 § 6, 1974).

6.20.070 Hours of operation. No public dance or public dance hall shall be conducted, operated or maintained after the hour of two‑thirty a.m., provided that, public dancing and those activities related to public dancing licensed by King County such as live musical entertainment shall be permitted until four a.m. in establishments which have a class "H" liquor license and are in an area within 2000 feet of Sea-Tac International Airport and 500 feet of a state highway. (Ord. 7070 § 2, 1984: Ord. 2095 § 7, 1974).

6.20.072 Public youth dance ‑ Hours of operation ‑ Age Restrictions ‑ Penalty.

A. No person or entity conducting a public youth dance or maintaining a public youth dance hall shall allow persons under the age of sixteen years to enter or remain on the premises without that person's parent or legal guardian present.

B. No person or entity conducting or operating a public youth dance or public youth dance hall shall allow persons under the age of eighteen years to enter or remain on the premises after 2:00 a.m. without that person's parent or legal guardian present.

C. Every person who knowingly or recklessly shall allow a person to enter or remain at a public youth dance in violation of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. It is the sole responsibility of the person or entity conducting and/or operating a public youth dance to require identification showing the age of each person admitted.

D. Any person under the age of eighteen years who shall by affirmative misrepresentation of age obtain admission to or permission to remain in any public youth dance in violation of this chapter shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. (Ord. 7832 § 6, 1986).

6.20.074 Public youth dance ‑ Readmission fee. No person or entity conducting or operating a public youth dance or public youth dance hall shall permit any person, other than an employee, to leave the dance or dance hall and return unless that person pays a readmission fee equal to, or greater than, one‑half the original price of admission. (Ord. 7832 § 7, 1986).

6.20.080 Fees. The fees for conducting, operating or maintaining a public dance hall or public dance are fixed as follows:

Public dance hall or public dance license (one-year), $200.00;

Public dance hall or public dance license (six-month), $100.00;

One-night public dance permit $50.00. (Ord. 10170 § 7, 1991: Ord. 5799 § 3, 1981: Ord. 2095 § 8, 1974).

6.20.090 Denial of license or permit.

A. The director may deny a license or permit if the applicant or, if the applicant is a corporation or partnership, the applicant's officers, directors or partners of any agent thereof, have:

1. Committed any act that, if committed by a licensee or permittee, would be grounds for the suspension or revocation of a license or permit;

2. Been convicted within the last five years of:

a. a felony involving a crime of violence as defined in RCW 9.41.010, a felony under chapter 69.50 RCW or any felony or misdemeanor under chapter 9A.44, 9A.64 or 9A.88 RCW;

b. contributing to the dependency or delinquency of a minor; or

c. assault on a juvenile;

3. Been refused a license or permit or had a license or permit revoked under this chapter. However, any applicant denied a license or permit may reapply after six months if the basis for such denial no longer exists;

4. Committed any act for which a license is required under this chapter;

5. Failed to comply with the building, zoning, planning or fire codes of King County, or any rules or regulations set forth by the state of Washington Liquor and Cannabis Board; or

6. Knowingly made any false statement in the applicant's application.

B. The director may deny a license if the director determines that the conduct, operation or maintenance of a public dance hall or public dance will disturb the peace and quiet of the neighborhood in which the public dance hall or public dance is located. (Ord. 18728 § 26, 2018: Ord. 7832 § 8, 1986: Ord. 2095 § 9, 1974).

6.20.100 Suspension or revocation of license or permit. The director may suspend or revoke a license or permit if the director determines that the licensee or permittee or any of the licensee's or permittee's officers, directors or partners or agents have:

A. Intentionally failed to disclose any material fact in the application for a license or permit, or a renewal of a license or permit;

B. Knowingly made any false statement or given any false information in connection with an application for a license or permit or a renewal of a license or permit or a renewal of a license or permit;

C. Failed to remove or attempt to remove from the dance premises any person who appears to be under the influence of or affected by the use of either alcohol or drugs, or both, or whose conduct reasonably appears to pose a physical danger to the safety of others present;

D. Committed any act that is a ground for denial of a license or a permit; or

E. Violated this chapter. (Ord. 18728 § 27, 2018: Ord. 7832 § 9, 1986: Ord. 2095 § 10, 1974).

6.20.110 Transferability of license or permit. Any license or permit issued under the provisions of this chapter shall apply to a single location only and shall not be transferable to other locations; provided, however, that the license or permit may be transferred to another person provided such person satisfies the license or permit requirements contained herein and pays a transfer fee of twenty-five dollars. (Ord. 2095 § 11, 1974).

6.20.120 Civil penalty. In addition to or as an alternative to any other penalty provided herein or by law, any person who violates any provision of any business license ordinance shall be subject to a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars per violation to be directly assessed by the director. The director, in a reasonable manner, may vary the amount of the penalty assessed to consider the appropriateness of the penalty to the size of the business of the violator; the gravity of the violation; the number of past and present violations committed; and the good faith of the violator in attempting to achieve compliance after notification of the violation. All civil penalties assessed will be enforced and collected in accordance with the procedure specified under this title. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 1, 1974).

6.20.130 Additional enforcement. Notwithstanding the existence or use of any other remedy, the director may seek legal or equitable relief to enjoin any acts or practices which constitute or will constitute a violation of any business license ordinance or other regulations herein adopted. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 2, 1974).

6.20.140 Licensing ‑ Retroactivity. All licenses issued prior to November 10, 1986, shall entitle the holder of such license a period of thirty-five days, following the effective date of the ordinance, to comply with the provisions of K.C.C. 6.20.002, .004, .010, .020, .030, .072, .074, .090 and .100. (Ord. 7832 § 10, 1986).

6.24 PRIVATE SECURITY

Sections:

6.24.010 Definitions.

6.24.020 License required.

6.24.030 Exemptions.

6.24.040 License - application.

6.24.050 Procedures required of licensees.

6.24.060 Background check.

6.24.070 License - scope and classification.

6.24.080 License - fees.

6.24.090 License - denial.

6.24.100 License - revocation or suspension.

6.24.110 License - transferability.

6.24.120 New officers.

6.24.130 Licensee responsible for conduct of employee.

6.24.140 Emergency equipment.

6.24.150 Certain practices prohibited.

6.24.160 Uniforms - approval required.

6.24.170 Divulgence of information.

6.24.180 Advertisements - solicitation of business.

6.24.190 Surety bond required.

6.24.200 Insurance coverage required.

6.24.210 Bond and insurance - license suspension or denial for failure to file.

6.24.220 Branch offices.

6.24.230 Registration of employees.

6.24.240 Licensees and registrants - knowledge and ability to use firearms.

6.24.250 Registration - exempt employees.

6.24.260 Registration - denial, suspension or revocation.

6.24.270 Registration - issuance.

6.24.280 Termination of registrant with licensee.

6.24.290 Registration - fee.

6.24.300 Renewal of license, registration or permit - late penalty.

6.24.310 Violation - penalty.

6.24.320 Civil penalty.

6.24.330 Additional enforcement.

6.24.010 Definitions. For the purpose of this chapter the words and phrases used herein, unless the context otherwise indicates, shall have the following meanings:

A. "Armored-transport agencies" provide armed personnel to convey valuable articles for a fee.

B. "Contract guard or patrol agencies" includes partnerships, corporations joint ventures, as well as individuals who are self-employed, which provide private security guard or patrol services for a fee.

C. "Contract investigative agency" includes partnerships, corporations, joint ventures, as well as individuals who are self-employed which provide private investigative services for a fee, except individuals investigating bodily injury or property damage actions under the supervision of a licensed attorney.

D. "Credit investigation agencies and credit investigators" are businesses and persons who conduct investigations primarily to furnish information as to the business and financial standing and credit responsibility of persons, firms, or corporations.

E. "In-house guard forces" provide private guard services exclusively in connection with the affairs of the one business that employs them.

F. "In-house investigative forces" provide private investigative services exclusively in connection with the affairs of the one business that employs them.

G. "Private guards" are persons who protect or attempt to protect persons or property from damage, injury, loss, or any criminal act and includes "guard dogs," "guards," "security officer," "protective agent," "merchant guard," and "special officer."

H. "Private investigators/detectives" are personnel who conduct investigations for a contract investigative agency, including undercover agents employed by contract agencies, but excluding in-house investigative force employees, credit investigators, insurance investigators and adjusters.

I. "Private investigation" includes investigations by a privately employed person or persons for the purpose of obtaining information concerning:

1. Crimes or wrongs, done or threatened;

2. The identity, habits, conduct, movements, whereabouts, associations, transaction, credibility, reputation, employment history, criminal record or character of any person, persons, group or business, for any purpose;

3. The location of lost or stolen property;

4. The causes and responsibility for fires, libel, slander, losses, accidents or injuries;

5. The whereabouts of missing persons.

J. "Private patrol persons" perform the same functions as private guards, but do so at a number of different locations, access to which is accomplished by means of travel on public property.

K. "Private security" includes all privately employed guards, investigators, detectives, patrol persons and any other personnel performing similar security functions or services. (Ord. 18728 § 28, 2018: Ord. 1888 Art. V § 43, 1974; Ord. 1492 § 1, 1973).

6.24.020 License required. No contract investigative agency or contract guard or patrol agency shall furnish private security services, nor shall they advertise, solicit, nor in any way promise nor inform anyone that they will perform such services in unincorporated King County without receiving from the director a license as provided in this chapter. (Ord. 1492 § 4, 1973).

6.24.030 Exemptions. This chapter shall not apply to:

A. A person employed as either an in-house guard or an investigator, or both, by only one employer in connection with the affairs of such employer and where there exists an employer-employee relationship;

B. An officer or employee of the United States of America, or of this state or a political subdivision thereof, while the employee or officer is engaged in the performance of official duties;

C. A person engaged exclusively in the business of obtaining and furnishing information in relation to the financial rating of persons;

D. An attorney in performing the attorney's duties; and

E. Admitted insurers, agents and insurance brokers licensed by the state, performing duties in connection with insurance transacted by them. (Ord. 18728 § 29, 2018: Ord. 1842 § 1, 1973: Ord. 1492 § 5, 1973).

6.24.040 License - application.

A. An application for a license under the provisions of this chapter shall be in the form prescribed by the director and shall include the following:

1. Full name and business address of the applicant;

2. Name under which the applicant intends to do business;

3. A statement as to the general nature of the business in which the applicant intends to engage;

4. Whether or not a firearm is to be used in connection with the applicant's duties as a licensee;

5. A statement as to the classification under which the applicant desires to be qualified;

6. The full name and residence address of each of its officers, partners, and directors, if the applicant is an entity other than an individual;

7. Three recent photographs of the applicant, of a type to be prescribed by the director;

8. A classifiable set of fingerprints;

9. A statement of experience qualifications;

10. Employment history for five years preceding the date of the application;

11. A list of arrests, convictions or confinements, and,

12. Any other information, evidence, statements, or documents as may be required by the director.

B. The applicant for a license, under the provisions of this chapter, shall be eighteen years of age or older and have two years experience in security work determined to be adequate by the director. Security work determined to be adequate shall include, but is not limited to, the following:

1. Two years active experience in private security work while in the military;

2. Two years active experience in public law enforcement;

3. Successful completion of two years of college level study in law enforcement, police science, criminology, or areas of like nature;

4. Successful completion of a course of study which has been approved by the director and a representative of the King County Department of Public Safety, on the basis that such course provides sufficient material to enable students thereof to operate competently as a licensee under this chapter;

5. Two years active experience as a registrant under the provisions of this chapter; and

6. Any combination of the above acceptable to the director.

C. The applicant for registration under the provisions of this chapter, shall be eighteen years of age or older. (Ord. 1492 § 6, 1973).

6.24.050 Procedures required of licensees. Licensees shall perform private security services in such fashion that no interference with the King County Department of Public Safety will result. Regarding this end, licensees shall:

A. Recommend to their customers that, in the event of a police problem the customer should first call their respective police department;

B. If a customer calls about a law enforcement problem, instruct the customer to call their department of public safety if possible; and if not possible, the licensee will notify the department of public safety;

C. Instruct its employees that, if a situation involving possible department of public safety interest is observed, the employee will immediately notify the department of public safety;

D. If sign of entry is noticed by an employee on duty, instruct employees to immediately notify the department of public safety;

E. Use all reasonable efforts to inform and advise their present and prospective officers, directors, partners, agents, representatives, employees, and all other persons acting under, for, or on behalf of the licensee, of the provisions of this chapter, and direct them to comply therewith. (Ord. 1492 § 7, 1973).

6.24.060 Background check. Each person, as defined in this chapter, will be subject to a background check, as determined by the director, through the department of public safety. The Department of Public Safety shall send a letter to the director concerning the background of the applicant, which may contain any objection or recommendation as to the application. (Ord. 1492 § 8, 1973).

6.24.070 License - scope and classification.

A. No person may engage in any private security operation outside the scope of the person's license.

B. For the purpose of defining the scope of licenses, the following license classifications are established:

1. Class A: Contract investigative agency, covering operations as defined in K.C.C. 6.24.010.C.;

2. Class B: Contract guard or patrol agency, covering operations as defined in K.C.C. 6.24.010 I. and J.; and

3. Class C: Covering the operations included within Class A and Class B, as defined in K.C.C. 6.24.010. (Ord. 18728 § 30, 2018: Ord. 1492 § 9, 1973).

6.24.080 License - fees. Fees for licenses under the provisions of this chapter are fixed as follows:

A. Class A license ‑ $150.00 per year;

B. Class B license ‑ 5 or more registrants ‑ $150.00 per year;

‑ 4 or less registrants ‑ $100.00 per year;

C. Class C license ‑ $250.00 per year.

There shall be no lower fee, based on number of registrants, for Class C license. (Ord. 1492 § 10, 1973).

6.24.090 License - denial. The director may deny a license if the applicant, if an individual, has, or if the applicant is a person other than an individual, that any of its officers, directors or partners have:

A. Committed any act constituting fraud;

B. Committed any act that, if committed by a licensee, would be a ground for the suspension or revocation of a license under this chapter;

C. Committed any act resulting in conviction of a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude;

D. A record, based upon reliable evidence, that leads to the reasonable conclusion that the applicant is not competent to perform the duties and fulfill the responsibilities of a licensee under this chapter;

E. Been refused a license under this chapter or had a license revoked. However, any applicant denied a license under this chapter may reapply after six months if the basis for such denial no longer exists;

F. Been an officer, director or partner, who knowingly participated or acquiesced in the acts or conduct of any person for which that person was refused a license or whose license was revoked under this chapter;

G. While unlicensed, committed or aided and abetted the commission of any act for which a license is required under this chapter;

H. Failed to successfully complete the firearms test specified in K.C.C. 6.24.240;

I. Made any false statements in the application; or

J. Failed to comply with K.C.C. 6.24.050. (Ord. 18728 § 31, 2018: Ord. 1492 § 11, 1973).

6.24.100 License - revocation or suspension.

A. The director may suspend or revoke a license issued under this chapter if the director determines that the licensee, if an individual, has, or if the licensee is a person other than an individual, that any of its officers, directors or partners have:

1. Made any false statement or given any false information in connection with an application for a license or a renewal or reinstatement of a license;

2. Violated this chapter;

3. Been convicted of a felony or any crime involving moral turpitude;

4. Illegally used, carried or possessed a dangerous weapon;

5. Violated any rule of the director adopted under the director's authority in this chapter;

6. Committed or permitted any employee to commit any act, while the license was expired, that would be cause for the suspension or revocation of a license or grounds for the denial of an application for a license;

7. Knowingly violated, or advised, encouraged or assisted the violation of, any court order or injunction in the course of business as a licensee;

8. Acted as a runner or capper for any attorney; or

9. Committed any act that is a ground for denial of an application for license under this chapter.

B. The director may suspend or revoke a license issued under this chapter if the director determines that the licensee, if an individual, has, or if the licensee is a person other than an individual, that any of its officers, directors or partners have knowingly employed, or knowingly employs any person who:

1. Has committed any act that, if committed by a licensee, would be grounds for suspension or revocation of a license under this chapter;

2. Has been convicted of a felony or any crime involving moral turpitude;

3. Has a record, based upon reliable evidence, which leads to the reasonable conclusion that the applicant is not competent to perform the duties and fulfill the responsibilities of a registrant under this chapter; or

4. Does not possess a valid registration card issued under this chapter.

C. The director may suspend or revoke a license issued under this chapter if the director determines that the licensee, if an individual, has, or any of the officers, directors, partners or employees if the licensee is a person other than an individual, have committed or used any unfair or deceptive acts or practices in the course of the licensee's business. Examples of such acts and practices are:

1. Engaging in retail installment transactions with members of the public in the state of Washington without complying with all applicable provisions of chapter 63.14 RCW, as amended;

2. Using a name different from that under which the licensee is currently licensed on any advertisement, solicitation or contract for business;

3. Knowingly making a false report to the licensee's employer or client for whom the information was being obtained;

4. Willfully failing or refusing to render a client services or a report as agreed between the parties and for which compensation has been paid or tendered in accordance with the agreement of the parties, if required by law;

5. Making any false, deceptive or misleading representations to members of the public concerning the qualifications of employees and agents of the licensee, the nature or extent of the services provided by the licensee or the cost to members of the public of services by the licensee;

6. Manufacturing evidence;

7. Knowingly making a false statement relating to evidence or information obtained in the course of employment, or knowingly publishing a slander or libel in the course of business; or

8. Accepting employment adverse to a client or former client relating to a matter with respect to which the licensee has obtained confidential information by reason of or in the course of the licensee's employment by the client or former client.

D. Suspension or revocation of a license issued under this chapter shall take effect only after the expiration of the period in which an appeal of the suspension or revocation may be filed.

E. In cases of suspension, the license or registration shall be reinstated upon compliance with the violated provision or provisions of this chapter or until the period of suspension fixed by the director has expired.

In cases of revocation, the license or registration shall be canceled. However, the revocation for violation of any of the provisions of this chapter shall not relieve the licensee or registrant of the penalties otherwise provided for in this chapter. (Ord. 18728 § 32, 2018: Ord. 1492 § 12, 1973).

6.24.110 License - transferability. A license issued under the provisions of this chapter shall apply to a single location only and shall not be transferable to other locations or to any other person other than that designated on the license; provided, however, that, in the event of death of the individual, partner(s) or officer(s) who satisfied the requirements of Section 6.24.040 B., the surviving spouse, partner(s) or officer(s) may operate under the existing license for a period not to exceed ninety days; further provided, however, that, at the end of this ninety day period, the surviving spouse, partner(s) or officer(s) shall satisfy the requirements of Section 6.24.060 B. (Ord. 1492 § 15, 1973).

6.24.120 New officers. Applications, on forms prescribed by the director, shall be submitted by all new officers or partners. The director may suspend or revoke a license issued under this chapter if the director determines that at the time the person becomes an officer or partner of a licensee, any of the facts in K.C.C. 6.24.090 and 6.24.100 existed as to such person. (Ord. 18728 § 33, 2018: Ord. 1888 Art. V § 44, 1974; Ord. 1492 § 17, 1973).

6.24.130 Licensee responsible for conduct of employee. A licensee shall at all times be legally responsible for the good conduct of each employee while on duty. (Ord. 1492 § 18, 1973).

6.24.140 Emergency equipment. It is unlawful for any licensee, or the licensee's agents, to use emergency equipment, such as sirens and flashing red or blue lights, on vehicles owned or operated by the licensee, except as specifically authorized or licensed by the state of Washington or any of its political subdivisions. (Ord. 18728 § 34, 2018: Ord. 1492 § 19, 1973).

6.24.150 Certain practices prohibited.

A. It is unlawful for a licensee to represent to members of the public in any way, either directly or indirectly or by implication, that the licensee is an official or semiofficial law enforcement organization or that employees, agents or solicitors of the licensee are authorized by the state of Washington or any of its political subdivisions to act as law enforcement officers, including, by way of example but not limitation, the following conduct:

1. Use of any name or initials in the course of business which has the capacity or tendency to convey said representation to members of the consuming public, including, but not limited to, any name using the words "police", "department", "King County Police", or "King County Detective", "King County Sheriff" or "King County Deputy Sheriff":

2. Use of any uniform, badge, insignia, business card, stationery or any other device, object, or type of apparel, which is not readily distinguishable to average members of the consuming public from such devices, objects or types of apparel which are used by authorized law enforcement officers;

3. Use any uniform, badge, insignia, title or identification card, or make any statement with the intent to give an impression that the licensee is connected in any way with the federal government, a state government or any political subdivision of either; or

4. Use any letterhead, advertisement or other printed matter, or in any manner illegally represents that the licensee is an instrumentality of the federal government, state government or any political subdivision of either.

B. It is unlawful for any licensee to engage in any acts, practices or conduct which hampers the operations and activities of authorized law enforcement and public safety officials. (Ord. 13037 § 2, 1998: Ord. 1492 § 20, 1973).

6.24.160 Uniforms - approval required. No license shall be issued under the provisions of this chapter until approval is given by the director and the Department of Public Safety, of the uniforms and accouterments to be worn by registrants of the licensee. (Ord. 1492 § 21, 1973).

6.24.170 Divulgence of information. Any licensee or officer, director or partner of a licensee shall divulge to representatives for law enforcement or the prosecuting attorney, any information the licensee or officer, director or partner of the licensee may acquire as to any criminal offense, as the licensee or officer, director or partner of the licensee may be required by law so to do. However, the licensee or officer, director or partner of the licensee shall not divulge to any other person any information acquired by the licensee or officer, director or partner of the licensee except at the direction of the employer or client for whom the information was obtained. (Ord. 18728 § 35, 2018: Ord. 1492 § 22, 1973).

6.24.180 Advertisements - solicitation of business.

A. Every advertisement by a licensee advertising or soliciting business shall contain the company name and address as they appear in the records of the department of local services, permitting division.

B. Licensees, in their promotional literature and oral sales presentations to members of the public, shall not claim any relationship or affiliation with any official or semiofficial law enforcement organization. Such literature or sales presentation shall be accompanied by an accurate and clear description of the services that the licensee does in fact offer or provide.

C. Solicitors performing oral sales presentations to members of the public shall not carry visible weapons. (Ord. 18791 § 45, 2018: Ord. 17420 § 12, 2012: Ord. 14199 § 115, 2001: Ord. 1492 § 23, 1973).

6.24.190 Surety bond required.

A. No license shall be issued under this chapter unless the applicant files with the director a surety bond executed by a surety company authorized to do business in this state in the sum of ten thousand dollars conditioned to recover against the principal, its servants, officers, agents and employees by reason of its wrongful or illegal acts in conducting the business licensed under this chapter. However, applicants requesting a Class B license, who employ four or less registrants, shall be permitted to file a five-thousand-dollar surety bond. The director shall require a certified copy of the bond to be filed in the director's office.

B. The bond required by this chapter shall be made payable to King County, and anyone injured in the manners listed in subsection A. of this section shall have the right and shall be permitted to sue directly upon this obligation in their own names, and this obligation shall be subject to successive suits for recovery until complete exhaustion of the face amount of the bond. (Ord. 18728 § 36, 2018: Ord. 1492 § 24, 1973).

6.24.200 Insurance coverage required.

A. No license shall be issued under the provisions of this chapter unless the applicant files with the director a certificate of insurance naming King County as an additional insured.

B. Minimum coverage is fixed as follows:

Bodily injury - one hundred thousand to three hundred thousand dollars;

Property damage - one hundred thousand dollars. (Ord. 1492 § 25, 1973).

6.24.210 Bond and insurance - license suspension or denial for failure to file.

A. Every licensee shall at all times maintain on file with the director the surety bond and insurance required by this chapter in full force and effect and upon failure to do so, the license of such licensee shall be suspended and shall not be reinstated until this requirement is met.

B. The director shall deny the application for a license if the applicant fails to satisfy the surety bond or insurance requirements.

C. The director may refuse to reinstate a license notwithstanding the licensee's compliance with this section, if, during the suspension, the director:

1. Finds any reason which would justify refusal to issue or justifies a suspension or revocation of a license; or

2. Finds performance by an applicant of any practice, while under suspension for failure to keep the applicant's surety bond or insurance in force, for which a license is required under this chapter. (Ord. 18728 § 37, 2018: Ord. 1492 § 26, 1973).

6.24.220 Branch offices. Each licensee shall file in writing with the director the address of each branch office, and within fourteen days after the establishment or closing of such office, or change of location of a branch office, shall notify the director in writing of such fact. (Ord. 1492 § 27, 1973).

6.24.230 Registration of employees.

A. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, every employee of a licensee, including dispatchers, and solicitors, shall be registered with the director in the manner prescribed by this chapter.

B. The application for registration under this chapter shall be on a form prescribed by the director and shall include:

1. Full address, telephone number, date of birth and place of birth;

2. A listing of any and all aliases used by the applicant;

3. The name and address of the licensee and the date the employment commenced;

4. A letter from the licensee requesting that the employee be registered under the license;

5. The title of the position occupied by the employee and a description of the position's duties;

6. Whether or not a firearm is to be used by the employee in connection with the employee's duties as a registrant;

7. Three recent photographs of the employee, of a type described by the director, and a classifiable set of fingerprints;

8. Employment history for five years preceding the date of the application; and

9. Such other information, evidence, statements or documents as may be required by the director. (Ord. 18728 § 38, 2018: Ord. 1492 § 28, 1973).

6.24.240 Licensees and registrants - knowledge and ability to use firearms.

A. An applicant for a license or registration who uses a firearm in connection with employment regulated under the provisions of this chapter, shall be tested by the director and a representative of the King County department of public safety in order to determine that such applicant has sufficient knowledge and ability to use such firearm in a competent and safe manner.

B. The content of such test shall be determined by the director and a representative of the King County department of public safety and shall be in a form prescribed by them. (Ord. 1492 § 29, 1973).

6.24.250 Registration - exempt employees. Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, employees of a licensee who are employed exclusively in stenographic, typing, filing, clerical or other activities which do not constitute the work of providing private security as described in this chapter, shall not be required to register under the provisions of this chapter with the director. (Ord. 1492 § 30, 1973).

6.24.260 Registration - denial, suspension or revocation. The director may refuse to register any employee, or may suspend, or revoke a previous registration, if the individual has committed any act which, if committed by a licensee, would be a ground for refusing to issue a license, or for the suspension or revocation of a license under the provisions of this chapter. (Ord. 1492 § 31, 1973).

6.24.270 Registration - issuance. Upon completion of registration the director shall issue to the registered employee a registration card, which shall be carried on the employee's person at all times. The exhibition of this card to the licensee shall be considered prima facie evidence that the person is registered by King County, under the licensee's license number. (Ord. 18728 § 39, 2018: Ord. 1492 § 32, 1973).

6.24.280 Termination of registrant with licensee. Each person registered under this chapter whose employment has been terminated with the licensee shall immediately surrender the person's registration card to the licensee, and the licensee shall surrender same within seven days thereafter to the director for cancellation. A notation stating that the registered employee was terminated and for what cause may be enclosed with the registration card. The licensee shall notify the director in writing within a reasonable time of any change in the resident address of a registered employee. (Ord. 18728 § 40, 2018: Ord. 1492 § 33, 1973).

6.24.290 Registration - fee. The registration fee for employees of a licensee is fixed as follows:

Fifteen dollars per year. (Ord. 5799 § 4, 1981: Ord. 1492 § 34, 1973).

6.24.300 Renewal of license, registration or permit - late penalty. A late penalty shall be charged on all applications for renewal of a license, registration or permit received later than ten working days after the expiration date of such license, registration or permit as set forth in the respective resolution or ordinance establishing the expiration date of such license, registration or permit. The amount of such penalty is fixed as follows:

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty cents or more, but less than fifty dollars ‑ twenty percent of the required fee.

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty dollars or more, but less than one thousand dollars ‑ ten percent of the required fee.

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of one thousand dollars or more ‑ five percent of the required fee. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 3, 1974).

6.24.310 Violation - penalty. Any person violating or failing to comply with any of the provisions of this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punished by a fine in any sum not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars or by imprisonment in the King County jail for a period not to exceed ninety days. (Ord. 1492 § 36, 1973).

6.24.320 Civil penalty. In addition to or as an alternative to any other penalty provided herein or by law any person who violates any provision of any business license ordinance shall be subject to a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars per violation to be directly assessed by the director. The director, in a reasonable manner, may vary the amount of the penalty assessed to consider the appropriateness of the penalty to the size of the business of the violator; the gravity of the violation; the number of past and present violations committed and the good faith of the violator in attempting to achieve compliance after notification of the violation. All civil penalties assessed will be enforced and collected in accordance with the procedure specified under this title. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 1, 1974).

6.24.330 Additional enforcement. Notwithstanding the existence or use of any other remedy, the director may seek legal or equitable relief to enjoin any acts or practices which constitute or will constitute a violation of any business license ordinance or other regulations herein adopted. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 2, 1974).

6.27 RIGHT-OF-WAY FRANCHISES FOR UTILITIES

Sections:

6.27.020 Franchises required.

6.27.030 Application - generally.

6.27.050 Application - review – hearing.

6.27.054 Franchise application and advertising fees.

6.27.060 Criteria for approval.

6.27.065 Franchises amended - violation - revocation.

6.27.080 Franchises for electric, gas, water or sewer utilities – franchise compensation – policies and process.

6.27.100 Alternatives to utility franchises – consideration – forbearance agreements.

6.27.150 Noncompliance with franchise requirements – legal proceedings – remedies – judicial enforcement.

6.27.160 Noncompliance with franchise requirements – additional remedies.

6.27.020 Franchises required. In accordance with RCW 36.55.010, the county requires persons or private or municipal corporations to obtain a franchise approved by the King County council in order to use the right-of-way of county roads for the construction and maintenance of waterworks, gas pipes, telephone, telegraph and electric lines, sewers, cable TV and petroleum products and any other such public and private utilities. This requirement may be waived for the purpose of issuing right-of-way construction permits as provided in K.C.C. 14.44.055. (Ord. 18403 § 4, 2016: Ord. 11790 § 2, 1995: Ord. 1710 § 2, 1973).

6.27.030 Application - generally. Applications for franchises shall be submitted, in a form approved by the facilities management division, to the clerk of the King County council. (Ord. 18403 § 5, 2016: Ord. 1710 § 3, 1973).

6.27.050 Application - review – hearing.

A. Each application for a right-of-way franchise shall be reviewed by the following agencies prior to submission to the King County council for hearing and decision:

1. King County department of executive services; and

2. King County department of local services.

B. In addition, each application for a right-of-way franchise by sewer and water districts and water distributors shall be submitted to the utilities technical review committee. Approval by that committee is required prior to any submission of the application to the council for approval. Approval shall be forthcoming if all criteria outlined in K.C.C. 6.27.060 are met.

C. In accordance with RCW 36.55.040, the council shall set a time and a place for a public hearing on each franchise application which has been reviewed in accordance with subsections A and B of this section. The county shall post notice of such hearing in three public places fifteen days before the hearing and publish notice twice in some daily newspaper in the county not less than five days before the hearing. (Ord. 18791 § 46, 2018: Ord. 14199 § 116, 2001: Ord. 1710 § 5, 1973).

6.27.054 Franchise application and advertising fees.

A. A party requesting a new franchise, an amended franchise, a renewal or extension of an existing franchise or a transfer of its franchise rights shall pay a franchise application fee as set forth in K.C.C. 4A.675.020. The fee is for the administrative costs incurred by the county in the reviewing and processing of the franchise application. The franchise application fee is payable at the time of franchise issuance. In addition, each applicant shall pay an advertising fee as set forth in K.C.C. 4A.675.020.B. Advertising fees are not refundable, even if the application is disapproved.

B. The real estate services section may require applicants to reimburse the county for the actual costs incurred by the county in the reviewing and processing of an application for the issuance, renewal or extension, amendment or transfer of franchise rights, to the extent the costs exceed the costs of reviewing and processing the application recovered by the application fee. The payment of actual cost balances shall be made at the time of the franchise issuance.

C. If a franchise is granted to an applicant, the real estate services section may require the grantee of the franchise to reimburse the county for the actual costs incurred by the county in administering a grantee's activities under the franchise, including but not limited to costs incurred for inspections, relocations, abatements and enforcement.

D. The facilities management division is authorized to establish rules or policies that define actual costs that may be charged to an applicant for a franchise or to a grantee of a franchise under subsections B. and C. of this section. Costs related to reviewing and processing applications for franchises and administering franchises may include, but are not limited to costs for:

1. Personnel, including payroll and management;

2. Overhead, including office rent, maintenance and utilities;

3. Program planning and development;

4. Data processing and computer;

5. Legal and accounting services; and

6. Consulting services such as engineering and environmental assessment.

E. The facilities management division is authorized to establish rules or policies to assess annual administration charges to grantees of franchises under subsection C. of this section to reasonably cover the costs incurred by the county in administering franchises. If the facilities management division institutes such an administration charge, the real estate services section may require applicants to reimburse the county for the actual costs incurred by the county in administering a franchise, to the extent the costs exceed the costs recovered by the administration charge.

F. All payments received under this section shall be credited to the county current expense fund. The franchise application fee received under K.C.C. 4A.675.020.A. and K.C.C. 6.27.054.A. and any reimbursement of actual costs under K.C.C. 6.27.054.B. shall be credited against any franchise compensation required by K.C.C. 6.27.060.B.

G. This section shall not apply to franchise applications, amended franchises, renewal, or extension of existing franchises or transfers or franchise rights or franchise administration under the county's cable television regulations, K.C.C. chapter 6.27A. (Ord. 18403 § 6, 2016: Ord. 17691 § 8, 2013: Ord. 17515 § 5, 2013: Ord. 16295 § 4, 2008: 14264 § 2, 2001: Ord. 13327 § 6, 1998: Ord. 10171 § 1, 1991).

6.27.060 Criteria for approval.

A. All franchises shall be consistent with the following criteria:

1. A previously approved comprehensive plan for the applicant; if required to have such a plan by K.C.C. 13.24.010;

2. The county Comprehensive Plan;

3. The standards of good practice regarding accommodation of utilities on county road right-of-way as stated in the King County Road Standards, under chapter 136-40 WAC;

4. The franchise shall include provisions requiring the grantee of a franchise to carry out a program acceptable to the county for the grantee to remove or relocate at its cost its facilities in the right-of-way that pose a hazard to the general public; and

5. The franchise shall include provisions acceptable to the county requiring the grantee of the franchise to indemnify, defend and hold harmless the county against damages, including environmental damages, caused by, arising out of, or incidental to the grantee’s exercise of rights and obligations set forth in the franchise agreement.

B. All franchises granted for electric, gas, water and sewer utilities shall include a requirement that the grantee provide the county with franchise compensation under K.C.C. 6.27.080 in return for the right to use the right-of-way.

C. In addition, all franchises granted for water and sewer utilities shall be consistent with the following criteria:

1. Health and sanitation regulations of the Seattle-King County department of public health and the state;

2. County standards for water mains and fire hydrants, and other fire suppression water facilities and services as defined in chapter 70.315 RCW. Consistent with the authority in chapter 70.315 RCW, except when the county is acting as a customer or as a purveyor, the grantee of a water utility franchise shall, at no expense to the county, provide fire suppression water facilities and services required by applicable law and shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless the county against damages arising from fire suppression activities during fire events. The costs incurred by the grantee for such fire suppression water facilities and services shall be credited against any franchise compensation required by K.C.C. 6.27.060.B;

3. The grantee of the franchise shall, at no expense to the county, repair all existing facilities that it owns within county road rights-of-way, including all appurtenant facilities and service lines connecting its system to users, if the repair is required by the county for any reasonable purpose;

4. The grantee of the franchise shall, at no expense to the county, adjust, remove or relocate existing facilities with county road rights-of-way, including all appurtenant facilities and service lines connecting its system to users, if the county determines the adjustment, removal or relocation is reasonably necessary to allow for an improvement or alteration planned by the county in the road right-of-way. The county shall give the grantee written notice of the requirement as soon as practicable, with the goal to provide the notice at the beginning of the predesign stage for projects that are part of the county’s capital improvement program, including the available information as is reasonably necessary for the grantee to plan for such adjustment, removal or relocation;

5. For projects that are a part of the county’s capital improvement program, in addition to any other notice given to the grantee of the franchise, the county shall provide a vertical and horizontal profile of the roadway and drainage facilities within it, both existing and as proposed by the county, and the proposed construction schedule; notwithstanding any permit conditions that may later be applied to the county project, this initial design information shall be given at least one hundred eighty days before construction is scheduled to begin, except in cases of urgent construction or emergencies. The grantee shall respond to this notice, and to any later notices of revised designs based on permit conditions, within no more than thirty days by providing to the county the best available information as to the location of all of the grantee’s facilities, including all appurtenant facilities and service lines connecting its system to users and all facilities that it has abandoned, within the area proposed for the public works project. The county shall offer the grantee the opportunity to participate in the preparation of bid documents for the selection of a contractor to perform the public works project as well as all required adjustments, removals or relocations of the grantee’s facilities. The bid documents shall provide for an appropriate cost allocation between the parties. The county shall have sole authority to choose the contractor to perform the work. The grantee and the county may negotiate an agreement for the grantee to pay the county for its allocation of costs, but neither party shall be bound to enter into such an agreement. Under such an agreement, in addition to the grantee’s allocation of contractor costs, the grantee shall reimburse the county for costs, such as for inspections or soils testing, related to the grantee’s work and reasonably incurred by the county in the administration of the joint construction contract. The costs shall be calculated as the direct salary cost of the time of county professional and technical personnel spent productively engaged in the work, plus overhead costs at the standard rate charged by the county on other similar projects, including joint projects with other county agencies; and

6. The grantee of the franchise shall, at no expense to the county, assume the following obligations with respect to facilities connected to its system that are within county road rights-of-way and that it does not own, including appurtenant facilities and service lines connecting its system to users:

a. The grantee shall apply for, upon request and on behalf of the owner of the facilities, a county right-of-way construction permit for any repairs required for the facilities, but only if the owner agrees to reimburse the grantee for all costs incurred by the grantee and any other reasonable conditions the grantee requires as a precondition to applying for the permit. All work to be performed in the county right-of-way shall comply with all conditions of the county permit and all applicable county requirements. The grantee may at its option perform any part of the repair with its own forces or require the owner to employ a contractor for that purpose, but only if the contractor is approved by the county;

b. In the event that the county determines emergency repair of the owner’s facilities is necessary to halt or prevent significant damage to county road rights-of-way or significant threats to the health, safety or welfare of parties other than the owner or the occupants of the building served by the facilities, the grantee shall take prompt remedial action to correct the emergency to the county’s approval, which the county shall not unreasonably withhold; and

c. When the county or its contractor provides notice to the grantee, in accordance with chapter 19.122 RCW, of its intent to excavate with county road rights-of-way, the grantee shall provide to the county or its contractor the best information available from the grantee’s records or, where reasonable, from the use of locating equipment as to the location of the facilities, including surface markings where these would reasonably be of use in the excavation. If the grantee fails to make good faith efforts to provide the information required in this subsection C.6.c. within the deadlines provided by chapter 19.122 RCW, the grantee shall defend, indemnify and hold the county harmless for all claims and reasonable costs that result from damage to the facilities if the damage occurs as a result of the failure to provide the information. Nothing in this subsection is intended or shall be construed to create any rights in any third party or to form the basis for any obligation or liability on the part of the county or the grantee toward any third party, nor is anything in this subsection intended or to be construed to alter the rights and responsibilities of the parties under chapter 19.122 RCW, as amended. (Ord. 18403 § 7, 2016: Ord. 13625 § 1, 1999: Ord. 11278 § 3, 1994: Ord. 1710 § 6, 1973).

6.27.065 Franchises amended - violation - revocation. The county executive is hereby directed to notify all grantees of water and sewer franchises, consistent with the requirement for notice in their franchise agreements, that their agreements have been amended to include the language in Section 6.27.060 B.3, 4, 5 and 6, which shall take precedence over any existing language in their agreements. If the grantee, its successors or assigns shall violate or fail to comply with these amendments after they become effective, King County may notify the grantee of the county’s intent to revoke the franchise. The county shall schedule a public hearing within 45 days of such notification. The decision to revoke shall become effective 90 days following the public hearing if the county finds the revocation to be in the public interest. (Ord. 11278 § 4, 1994).

6.27.080 Franchises for electric, gas, water or sewer utilities – franchise compensation – policies and process.

A. Each franchise for electric, gas, water or sewer utilities granted by King County shall include a requirement that the grantee of the franchise provide the county reasonable compensation in return for the right to use the right-of-way for the purposes of constructing, operating, maintaining and repairing utility facilities and related appurtenances, which for the purposes of this section is "franchise compensation." This requirement and the process outlined in this section for determining franchise compensation shall apply to franchises granted after December 27, 2016, and to existing franchises that include terms that authorize compensation in return for the right to use the right-of-way. For the purpose of determining franchise compensation under this section, an applicant for a franchise and a grantee of an existing franchise that includes terms that authorize compensation in return for the right to use the right-of-way is "the applicant."

B. Franchise compensation shall be in the nature of rent and shall be paid annually. Franchise compensation may be in the form of money, in-kind services or other nonmonetary benefits, accruing to King County.

C. Franchise compensation shall be determined through consideration of the following relevant factors, not all of which must be applied to each franchise: the land value of right-of-way within the applicant's service area; the approximate amount of area within the right-of-way that will be needed to accommodate the applicant's use; a reasonable rate of return to King County for the applicant's use of the right-of-way; the business opportunity made available to the applicant; density of households served; a reasonable annual adjustment; and other factors that are reasonably related to the value of the franchise or the cost to King County of negotiating the franchise.

D. The facilities management division is authorized to establish policies that create a process for the determination of franchise compensation. These policies may include different processes for the determination of franchise compensation depending on the size and complexity of the franchise. As part of the process, the facilities management division may request from the applicant information relevant to the determination of franchise compensation. Also as part of the process, the facilities management division shall make a reasonable estimate of franchise compensation and provide that estimate to the applicant. Thereafter, the applicant shall have a reasonable opportunity to suggest adjustments to the estimate in order to reach agreement with King County as to the amount and type of franchise compensation. (Ord. 18403 § 8, 2016).

6.27.100 Alternatives to utility franchises – consideration – forbearance agreements.

A. The executive is authorized to consider alternative means of providing utility services, including but not limited to:

1. Establishing a King County utility to provide utility services, or

2. Granting nonexclusive franchises.

B. In exchange for a forbearance payment by a utility company, the county may contract with the utility company:

1. To forbear from establishing a King County utility to compete with the utility company; and

2. To forbear from requiring the utility company to provide the county reasonable compensation in return for the right to use the right-of-way as required by K.C.C. 6.27.060.B.

C. The forbearance agreement may take the form of a franchise agreement, an interlocal agreement under chapter 39.34 RCW or an agreement under other contracting authority, and shall be subject to approval by the King County council. (Ord. 18403 § 9, 2016).

6.27.150 Noncompliance with franchise requirements – legal proceedings – remedies – judicial enforcement. If any person or entity installs or maintains utility facilities in the right-of-way of county roads without the required franchise, or has not complied with the terms of an existing franchise, the executive is authorized to initiate legal proceedings to seek all legal and equitable remedies to effectuate this chapter, including, but not limited to:

A. Ejecting a person or entity occupying the right-of-way of county roads that refuses to enter into a franchise with King County or to pay franchise compensation as required by K.C.C. 6.27.060.B., or an application fee or other cost related to use of the right-of-way;

B. Confirming the reasonableness of the franchise compensation required by K.C.C. 6.27.060.B. that is sought by King County;

C. Enforcing the terms and conditions of a franchise; or

D. Revoking a franchise. (Ord. 18403 § 10, 2016).

6.27.160 Noncompliance with franchise requirements – additional remedies. In addition to judicial enforcement under section K.C.C. 6.27.150, the manager of the real estate services section and the director of the road services division are authorized to enforce this chapter and any rules or regulations adopted under this chapter in accordance with the enforcement and penalty provisions of K.C.C. Title 23. A citation under K.C.C. 23.32.010.A.1.a. for violation of this chapter and any rules or regulations adopted under this chapter shall be in the amount of two hundred fifty to one thousand dollars, depending on the amount of right-of-way being occupied by the person or entity responsible for code compliance. A violation of a notice and order under K.C.C. 23.32.010.A.1.b. for violation of this chapter and any rules or regulations adopted under this chapter shall be two hundred fifty to one thousand dollars, depending on the amount of right-of-way being occupied by the person or entity responsible for code compliance. (Ord. 18403 § 11, 2016).

6.27A CABLE COMMUNICATIONS

Sections:

6.27A.010 Definitions.

6.27A.020 Grant of authority.

6.27A.030 Franchises and franchise agreements.

6.27A.035 Specific acts prohibited.

6.27A.040 Interpretation of franchise terms.

6.27A.050 Applications for franchise, renewal, modification or transfer.

6.27A.060 Franchise renewal.

6.27A.070 Notices.

6.27A.080 Insurance requirements.

6.27A.090 Liability and indemnification.

6.27A.100 Security fund or letter of credit.

6.27A.110 Liquidated damages.

6.27A.120 Nondiscrimination.

6.27A.130 Privacy.

6.27A.140 Rates.

6.27A.150 Customer service standards.

6.27A.160 Technical standards.

6.27A.170 Minimum facilities and services.

6.27A.180 Local origination.

6.27A.190 Reports and records.

6.27A.200 Performance evaluation.

6.27A.210 Revocation, expiration or abandonment.

6.27A.220 Continuity of service mandatory.

6.27A.230 Enforcement remedies.

6.27A.240 Notice and order procedure.

6.27A.250 Municipal cable system ownership authorized.

6.27A.260 Administration.

6.27A.270 Applicability to current franchise agreements.

CROSS REFERENCE:

Public, educational and government access (CTV) television channels: K.C.C. chapter 2.59.

6.27A.010 Definitions. For the purpose of this chapter, the following terms, phrases, words and their derivations shall have the meanings given herein. When not inconsistent with the context, words used in the present tense include the future, words in the plural number include the singular number, and words in the singular number include the plural number. The words "shall" and "will" are mandatory, and "may" is permissive. Words not defined herein shall be given the meaning set forth in the Cable Act. Words not defined in this chapter or the Cable Act shall be given their common and ordinary meaning.

A. "Abandonment" means failure by the franchisee to operate the entire cable system for ten consecutive days without just cause. Just cause shall include circumstances beyond the franchisee's control, such as natural disasters and material breakdown of the system that is not the result of the franchisee's fault or negligence.

B. "Access channel" means any channel or bandwidth on a cable system set aside for public, educational and/or governmental use.

C. "Basic cable service" means any service tiers which include the retransmission of local television broadcast signals.

D. "Bulk rate" means a rate charged to an owner of a structure or parcel of land containing multiple dwelling units in return for the provision of cable service to those units.

E. "Cable Act" means the Cable Communications Policy Act of 1984, codified at 47 U.S.C. Secs. 521 et seq., and as hereafter may be amended.

F. "Cable manager" means the director of the department of information technology or the director's designee.

G. "Cable office" means the cable section of the department of information technology.

H. "Cable rules" means rules promulgated by the director of the department of information technology or the director's designee for the purpose of administering the terms and requirements of this chapter.

I. "Cable service" means the transmission of video or other service over a cable system to subscribers together with any subscriber interaction provided in connection with such service.

J. "Cable system" means a facility, consisting of a set of closed transmission paths and associated signal generation, reception and control equipment that is designed to provide cable service that includes video programming and that is provided to subscribers within King County. A cable system does not include:

1. a facility that serves only to retransmit the television signals of one or more television broadcast stations;

2. a facility that serves only subscribers in one or more multiple unit dwellings under common ownership, control, or management, unless such facility uses any public right-of-way;

3. a facility of a common carrier that is subject, in whole or in part, to the provisions of Title II of the Communications Act of 1934, codified at 47 U.S.C. Sec 201 et seq., except that such facility will be considered a cable system to the extent it is used in the transmission of video programming directly to subscribers; or

4. any facilities of any electric utility used solely for operating its electric utility systems.

K. "Channel" means a portion of the electromagnetic frequency spectrum which is used in a cable system and which is capable of delivering a television channel, as television channel is defined by the FCC by regulation.

L. "Commercial rate" means a rate charged to a business in return for the provision of cable service to that business.

M. "Disabled subscriber" means a subscriber with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of such individual.

N. "Equitable price" means the price that a willing buyer would pay to a willing seller for a going concern, less any value attributed to the franchise itself, less the amount of harm to the community, and less any expenses incurred by the county as result of the actions giving rise to the revocation.

O. "Fair market price" means the price that a willing buyer would pay to a willing seller for a going concern, less any value attributed to the franchise itself.

P. "FCC" means the Federal Communications Commission and any legally appointed, designated or elected agent or successor.

Q. "Franchise" means the right granted by the county to a franchisee to construct, reconstruct, repair, maintain and operate a cable system over, on, along, or under any public rights-of-way within all or specified areas within unincorporated areas of the county. The term does not include any license or permit required by other laws, ordinances or rules of the county for the privilege of transacting and carrying on a business within the county, or for construction, reconstruction, repair or maintenance on, over or under or use of any public rights-of-way.

R. "Franchise agreement" means a document entered into between the county and a franchisee that sets forth the terms and conditions under which the franchise will be exercised.

S. "Franchisee" means any person granted a franchise pursuant to this chapter who has entered into a franchise agreement with King County.

T. "Gross revenues" means the annual gross revenue of the franchisee from all sources in the operation of the cable communications system, excluding any bad debt, sales tax, excise tax, or other taxes collected for direct pass-through to local, state or federal government.

U. "Installation" means the connection and/or activation of the system from feeder cable to subscriber terminals.

V. "Institutional network" means a voice, data and/or video communications system, whether physically integrated with a cable system or not, that is constructed, operated or maintained by a franchisee, whose transmissions are principally available to persons other than cable television subscribers.

W. "Interconnect means" the sharing of video, audio and/or data transmissions between two or more cable systems, institutional networks and/or users.

X. "Minority persons" means African-Americans, Hispanics, Mexican-Americans, Asian-Americans, Pacific Islanders, American Indians and Alaska Natives.

Y. "Person" means any individual, corporation, partnership, limited partnership, association, joint venture, organization, or any other legal entity of any kind, and any lawful trustee, successor, assignee, transferee or personal representative thereof.

Z. "Public rights-of-way" means the surface of and the space along, above and below any street, road, highway, freeway, lane, sidewalk, alley, court, boulevard, parkway, drive, utility easement and road right-of-way now or hereafter held or administered by the county.

AA. "Senior citizen subscriber" means a subscriber sixty-five years of age or over.

BB. "Subscriber" means any person who legally receives cable service delivered over the cable system.

CC. "Transfer" means any transaction in which:

1. an ownership or other interest in a franchisee is transferred from one person to another person so that control of the franchisee is transferred, or

2. the rights held by the franchisee under a franchise agreement are transferred or assigned, in whole or in part, to another person.

Provided, the transfer of ownership or other interest in a franchisee between members of the same immediate family shall not be a transfer for the purpose of this chapter so long as the county is notified of the fact of the transfer of ownership or other interest no later than fourteen (14) days prior to the transfer of ownership or other interest, except where the transfer of ownership or other interest occurs due to death or disability, in which case the county shall be notified within fourteen (14) days after the transfer of ownership or other interest. The franchisee shall insure that its insurance coverage and all other commitments continue in force without interruption and provide evidence of the same to the county.

For the purposes of this provision, a transfer shall be deemed to be between members of the same family if the transferee is the spouse, parent, sibling, adopted or natural child or other lineal descendant of the transferor, or if the transferee is a trust established for the benefit of such a person or for the benefit of the transferor. If the ownership or other interest in the franchisee is held by the trustee of a trust, then a transfer shall be deemed to be between members of the same family if the transferee is the spouse, parent, sibling, adopted or natural child or other lineal descendant of any other beneficiary of the trust, or any trust created for the benefit of such a person.

Provided further that, the transfer of ownership or other interest in a franchisee in connection with an internal reorganization or internal merger to a direct or indirect parent, subsidiary or affiliated entity under common control with the franchisee shall not be a transfer for the purpose of this chapter so long as:

1. the county is notified of the proposed transfer no later than thirty (30) days prior to the transfer of ownership or other interest;

2. the transferee shall insure that insurance coverage and all other commitments under the franchise agreement continue in force and without interruption and provide evidence to the same of the county no later than thirty (30) days prior to the proposed transfer; and

3. there is no increased risk of liability to the county or nonperformance of the terms of the franchise agreement.

DD. "Two-way capability" means the capacity for two-way transmission, over the cable system.

EE. "Video programming vendor" means a person engaged in the production, creation, or wholesale distribution of video programming for sale. (Ord. 17142 § 18, 2011: Ord. 14199 § 117, 2001: Ord. 10731 § 1, 1993: Ord. 10159 § 3, 1991).

6.27A.020 Grant of authority. Franchise and permits required.

A. A franchise authorizes the use of the county's public rights-of-way and compatible utility easements, as defined in the Cable Act, to construct, reconstruct, repair and maintain a cable system and/or institutional network.

B. No person shall construct or operate a cable system in the county without a franchise granted by the county and a franchise agreement executed with the county.

C. A franchisee must obtain any permits and pay any permit fees required by the county for use of the public rights-of-way. Such permits shall be obtained by and issued to a franchisee prior to any construction, reconstruction, repair or maintenance activity on any public rights-of-way.

D. A franchisee, in consideration of its use of the public rights-of-way, must pay to the county quarterly a franchise fee equal to five percent of the franchisee's gross revenues.

E. A franchisee is at all times subject to and must comply with all generally applicable federal, state and local laws, ordinances, codes, rules, regulations and orders. A franchisee shall at all times be subject to the exercise of the police power of the county. (10159 § 4, 1991)

6.27A.030 Franchises and franchise agreements.

A. The county may grant one or more franchises to serve all or a specified portion of unincorporated areas of the county. Any new franchise, renewal, transfer or modification shall be granted by ordinance and shall be for a term not to exceed fifteen years from the date the franchise is fully executed.

B. Any franchise granted shall be nonexclusive, and does not expressly or implicitly preclude the issuance of other franchises, or affect the county's right to use or authorize the use of its public rights-of-way to other persons as it determines appropriate.

C. In evaluating an application for a new franchise or a transfer of a franchise, the county may consider, among other things, the following factors: the applicant's technical, financial, and legal qualifications to construct and operate the proposed system; the nature of the proposed facilities, equipment, and services; the applicant's record and experience in constructing and operating cable systems and providing cable service in other communities, if any; the capability of the county's public rights-of-way to accommodate the proposed system; the potential disruption to existing users of the county's public rights-of-way and the resulting inconvenience to the public caused by the construction or operation of the proposed system; and whether the proposal will meet reasonably anticipated community cable-related needs and interests and serve the public interest.

D. The terms, conditions and provisions of a fully executed franchise agreement, together with all applicable laws, ordinances, codes, rules, regulations and orders, enacted now or in the future, shall define the rights and obligations of the franchisee and the county relating to the franchise.

E. The county may modify franchises consistent with its police powers as follows:

1. at the time of renewal, transfer, or other disposition;

2. when the franchisee's service area is altered, provided the franchisee is given thirty (30) days written notice of the proposed modification and is provided an opportunity to present arguments against the modification, or alternatives in lieu of if;

3. upon giving thirty days written notice to the franchisee of the proposed modification, provided the franchisee is given an opportunity to present arguments against the modification or alternative in lieu of it;

4. upon request of the franchisee under the circumstances provided in the Cable Act; or

5. when the franchise and/or franchise agreement is inconsistent with governing laws or statutes.

F. Except as expressly provided to the contrary, all costs incurred by an applicant or franchisee in complying with this chapter, the cable rules, a franchise, applicable law, or any action thereunder shall be the sole responsibility of the applicant or franchisee and shall not be charged to the county.

G. The notice requirements contained in RCW 36.55.040 shall apply to this section. (Ord. 10159 § 5, 1991)

6.27A.035 Specific acts prohibited. No cable operator or holder of a franchise to provide cable services or other multichannel video programming distributor providing or intending to provide services in King County shall:

A. Engage in unfair methods of competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices.

B. Monopolize or attempt to monopolize or combine or conspire with any other person or persons to monopolize any part of the production, control or sale of cable services, video programming or equipment.

C. Lease or make a sale or contract for the sale of goods or services used in the provision of multichannel video programming in King County when the purpose or effect of such lease, sale, or contract may be to:

1. substantially lessen competition, or

2. tend to create a monopoly; or

3. hinder significantly or prevent any multichannel video programming distributor from providing video programming to subscribers or consumers when the purpose or effect is to substantially lessen competition or to tend to create a monopoly.

D. Require a financial interest in a program service as a condition of carriage on one or more of its systems when the purpose or effect is to substantially lessen competition or to tend to create a monopoly.

E. Coerce a video programming vendor to provide, or retaliate against such a vendor for failing to provide, exclusive rights against other multichannel video programming distributors as a condition of carriage on a system when the purpose or effect is to substantially lessen competition or to tend to create a monopoly.

F. Engage in conduct the effect of which is to unreasonably restrain the ability of a video programming vendor to compete fairly by discriminating in video programming distribution on the basis of affiliation or nonaffiliation of vendors in the selection, terms, or conditions for carriage of video programming provided by such vendors when the purpose or effect is to substantially lessen competition or to tend to create a monopoly. (Ord. 10731 § 2, 1993).

6.27A.040 Interpretation of franchise terms. All franchise agreements shall include the following provision: The provisions of the cable ordinance and the cable rules shall apply to the franchise agreement as if fully set forth in the franchise agreement, and the express terms of this chapter and the cable rules will prevail over conflicting or inconsistent provisions in the franchise agreement unless the franchise agreement expresses an explicit intent to waive a requirement of this chapter and/or the cable rules. (Ord. 10159 § 6, 1991).

6.27A.050 Applications for franchise, renewal, modification or transfer.

A. All applications for the following must be filed in writing with the clerk of the county council:

1. grant of a new franchise;

2. renewal of a franchise under the franchise renewal procedures set forth in the Cable Act and this chapter;

3. modification of a franchise agreement; or

4. transfer of a franchise.

B. An applicant shall demonstrate in its application compliance with all requirements of this chapter, the cable rules, and applicable federal, state and local law.

C. An application for a new franchise or renewal of an existing franchise must contain, at a minimum, the following:

1. information regarding the characteristics and location of the proposed system;

2. the applicant's technical and financial ability to construct and operate the proposed system;

3. a proposal for the provision of public, educational and/or governmental ("PEG") access channels, and equipment and facilities relating to such channels sufficient to meet community needs and interest; and

4. a proposal to meet future cable-related community needs and interests.

D. If the county issues a request for franchising proposals or a request for refranchising proposals, an application must comply with the requirements of such request.

E. An application for approval of a transfer of a franchise must contain, at minimum, information regarding the applicant's technical and financial ability to construct and operate the system and a statement that the proposed transferee will comply with the transferor's franchise agreement, this chapter, the cable rules and applicable law.

F. An application for a new franchise must be accompanied by a $5,000 deposit to cover the costs incurred by the county to review and process the application. This deposit shall be made payable to the county and delivered to the clerk of the council. (Ord. 10159 § 7, 1991)

6.27A.060 Franchise renewal.

A. Franchises may be renewed using either the formal process specified in the Cable Act and in subsection B. of this section or the informal process specified in subsection C. of this section.

B. The following procedure shall be used for all formal renewals effected under the Cable Act:

1. During the six-month period that begins with the thirty-sixth month before the expiration of a franchise, the county may on its own initiative, and shall at the request of the franchisee, commence proceedings that afford the public in the franchise area appropriate notice and participation to identify the future cable-related community needs and interests and to review the franchisee's performance under the franchise;

2. Upon completion of the proceeding, the franchisee may, on its own initiative or at the request of the county, submit a proposal for renewal. All such proposals must meet the requirements of this chapter. If the county requests a renewal proposal, it shall establish a date when the renewal proposal shall be due, which shall not be less than thirty days after the request is made;

3. Upon submittal of a completed proposal for renewal by the due date, the county shall notify the public of the proposal and, during the four-month period, which begins on the date of submission of the cable operator's proposal under subsection B.2. [of this section], the county shall issue a preliminary assessment that the franchise should not be renewed or the county shall grant the renewal. The county's failure to make a preliminary assessment or to grant the renewal within the four-month period shall be deemed to be a preliminary assessment that the franchise should not be renewed and shall entitle the franchisee to the procedure in subsection B.4. of this section;

4.a. Whenever a preliminary assessment is made that a franchise should not be renewed, the county may on its own, and shall at the request of the franchisee, commence an administrative proceeding by the hearing examiner under K.C.C. 20.22.040, after providing notice to the public and the franchisee, to consider whether:

(1) the franchisee has substantially complied with the material terms of the existing franchise and with applicable law;

(2) the quality of the franchisee's service, including signal quality, response to consumer complaints and billing practices, but without regard to the mix, quality or level of cable services or other services provided over the system, has been reasonable in light of community needs;

(3) the franchisee has the financial, legal and technical ability to provide the services, facilities and equipment as set forth in the franchisee's proposal; and

(4) the franchisee's proposal is reasonable to meet the future cable-related community needs and interests, taking into account the cost of meeting those needs and interests.

b. The franchisee and the cable office shall be afforded fair opportunity for full participation in the proceeding. At the completion of the proceeding, the hearing examiner shall issue a written final decision granting or denying the renewal based upon the record of the proceeding, and transmit a copy to the franchisee;

5. Any denial of a renewal shall be based on one or more adverse findings made with respect to the factors described in subsection B.4.a(1) through (4) of this section, under the record of proceeding under subsection B.4.a.(1) through (4) of this section. The county may not base a denial of renewal on conditions listed in subsection B.4.a.(1) or (2) of this section unless the county has provided the franchisee with notice and the opportunity to cure, or in any case that the county has waived its right to object or has effectively acquiesced; and

6. Any franchisee whose renewal proposal has been denied by a final decision of the county made in accordance with this subsection B. or has been adversely affected by a failure of the county to act in accordance with procedural requirements of this subsection B. may appeal such final decision or failure in accordance with the Cable Act.

C. Notwithstanding subsection B. of this section, a franchisee may submit an informal renewal application in accordance with this subsection at any time. The following procedure shall be used for all informal renewal applications:

1. A franchisee may submit a renewal application meeting the requirements of this chapter. Submission of a renewal application in accordance with this subsection shall not invoke the formal application process contained in subsection B. of this section;

2. Upon submittal of a completed application, the county shall notify the public of the application and solicit public comments;

3. After receiving the public comments and completing any other review, the county shall either deny or grant the renewal. In determining whether to grant or deny the renewal, the county may consider whether:

a. the franchisee has the technical, legal and financial ability to provide the services, facilities and equipment as set forth in the franchisee's proposal;

b. the franchisee has substantially complied with the material terms of the existing franchise and with applicable law;

c. the quality of the franchisee's service, including signal quality, response to consumer complaints, billing practices, service mix or service level, has been reasonable in light of community needs;

d. the franchisee's proposal is reasonable to meet the future cable-related community needs and interests, taking into account the cost of meeting those needs and interests; and

e. such other factors consistent with the intent of this chapter and the Cable Act; and

4. The denial of a renewal under this subsection shall not affect action on a renewal application that is submitted in accordance with subsection B. of this section (Ord. 18230 § 83, 2016: Ord. 11075 § 1, 1993: 10159 § 8, 1991).

6.27A.070 Notices. All notices from a franchisee to the county pursuant to this chapter and the cable rules shall be filed with the cable office. A franchisee shall maintain with the cable office, throughout the term of the franchise, an address for service of notices by mail. (Ord. 10159 § 9, 1991).

6.27A.080 Insurance requirements.

A. For any franchise agreement entered into after December 2, 1991, a franchisee must carry commercial general liability, automobile liability and stop gap or employers liability coverage, each in minimum limits of not less than one million dollars ($1,000,000.00), in an amount approved by the King County office of risk management. All policies must name King County as an additional named insured.

B. All policies shall be placed with insurers having a Bests' rating of no less than A:VIII or, if not rated by Bests, with surpluses equivalent to or greater than Bests' A:VIII rating. A franchisee shall send copies of certificates, endorsements or other adequate evidence of compliance with this section to the cable office prior to the county's execution of the franchise agreement. (Ord. 10159 § 10, 1991).

6.27A.090 Liability and indemnification.

A. All franchise agreements shall contain the following provision: a franchisee shall have no recourse whatsoever against the county or its officials, boards, commissions, agents, or employees for any loss, costs, expenses, or damages arising out of any provision or requirement of the franchise, franchise agreement, or this chapter because of the enforcement of the franchise, franchise agreement, or this chapter except if such loss, costs, expenses or damages are the result of the sole negligence or misconduct on the part of the county or its agents.

B. All franchise agreements shall contain the following provision: to the extent permitted by law, a franchisee shall, at its sole cost and expense, indemnify, hold harmless, and defend the county and its officers, boards, commissions, agents and employees, against any and all claims, including but not limited to third-party claims, suits, causes of action, proceedings and judgments for damages or equitable relief arising out of the construction, repair, maintenance or operation of its cable system, or in any way arising out of the franchisee's enjoyment or exercise of a franchise granted pursuant, or otherwise subject, to this chapter, regardless of whether the act or omission complained of is authorized, allowed or prohibited by this chapter, the cable rules, or a franchise agreement. This provision includes, but is not limited to, expenses for reasonable legal fees and for disbursements and liabilities assumed by the county as follows:

1. To persons or property, in any way arising out of or through the acts or omissions of the franchisee, its officers, employees, or agents or to which the franchisee's negligence shall in any way contribute;

2. Arising out of any claim for invasion of the right of privacy, for defamation of any person, firm or corporation; or the violation or infringement of any copyright, trademark, trade name, service mark or patent; or a failure by the franchisee to secure consents from the owners, or authorized distributors of programs to be delivered by the cable system; or of any other right of any person, excluding claims arising out of or relating to programming provided by the county;

3. Arising out of a franchisee's failure to comply with the provisions of any federal, state or local statute, ordinance, rule, or regulation applicable to the franchisee with respect to any aspect of its cable television business to which this chapter, the cable rules, and/or franchise agreement apply.

C. The county shall give the franchisee timely written notice of the making of any claim or the commencement of any action, suit or other proceeding covered by this chapter. In the event any such claim arises, the county or any other indemnified party shall tender the defense thereof to the franchisee and the franchisee shall have the right to defend, settle, or compromise any claims arising hereunder and the county shall cooperate fully therein. (Ord. 10159 § 11, 1991).

6.27A.100 Security fund or letter of credit. An applicant for a grant of a franchise or franchise renewal or transfer must provide the cable office, for deposit with the King County office of financial management, in an amount determined by the cable office, but not less than twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000) either a cash security deposit or an irrevocable letter of credit from a financial institution in a form satisfactory to the manager and the King County office of financial management prior to the county's execution of the franchise agreement. The amount of the deposit shall be based on the scope of the applicant's existing and proposed cable operations in the county, the applicant's technical and financial qualifications, and the applicant's history of compliance with its franchise agreements in the county and elsewhere. A security deposit or letter of credit may also be required or the amount of the security deposit or letter of credit may be raised as a condition of a modification. The security deposit or letter of credit shall be used to ensure the faithful performance of the franchise agreement; compliance with this chapter, the cable rules, applicable federal, state, and local law, all orders and permits; and the payment of any claims, liens, fees, or taxes due the county that arise by reason of the construction, operation, repair or maintenance of the cable system. The county may withdraw funds from the security deposit or make demand for payment upon the letter of credit for the monetary amount of any remedy imposed pursuant to this chapter. (Ord. 10159 § 12, 1991).

6.27A.110 Liquidated damages. All franchise agreements entered into after December 2, 1991, may provide for liquidated damages to compensate the county for harm caused by violation of this chapter, the cable rules, a franchise agreement, or any applicable law in an amount which is a reasonable forecast of just compensation for the harm caused by the violation. (Ord. 10159 § 13, 1991).

6.27A.120 Nondiscrimination.

A. A franchisee or applicant for a franchise shall not deny cable service, or otherwise discriminate against any subscriber, access programmer or resident on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, political affiliation, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, sex or income of the residents of the area in which the person resides. The franchisee shall comply at all times with all other applicable federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations relating to nondiscrimination.

B. A franchisee shall not refuse to employ, nor discharge from employment, nor discriminate against any person in compensation or in terms, conditions or privileges of employment because of race, color, religion, national origin, physical disability, age, political affiliation, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, sex or income.

C. A franchisee shall comply with all applicable federal, state and local equal employment opportunity requirements.

D. The franchisee shall establish, maintain and execute an equal employment opportunity plan and a minority/women's business procurement program, which shall be consistent with the intent of the county's affirmative action and minority/women's business procurement policies. Upon request, the franchisee shall file with the cable office a copy of their equal employment opportunity report submitted annually to the FCC and shall file with King County office of equity and racial and social justice an annual compliance report detailing its progress with its minority/women's business procurement program during the previous year. The franchisee must also provide the cable office, upon request, copies of all other reports and information filed with federal, state or local agencies concerning equal employment opportunity or employment discrimination laws. This subsection shall apply only to franchise agreements entered into after December 2, 1991.

E. Despite the other provisions of this section, no provision of this section shall invalidate any other section of this chapter. (Ord. 19541 § 5, 2022: Ord. 19047 § 17, 2019 [did not take effect]: Ord. 19026 § 3, 2019: Ord. 10159 § 14, 1991).

6.27A.130 Privacy. A franchisee must protect the privacy of all subscribers pursuant to the Cable Act. A franchisee may not condition subscriber service on the subscriber's grant of permission to disclose information which, pursuant to federal law, cannot be disclosed. (Ord. 10159 § 15, 1991).

6.27A.140 Rates.

A.1. A franchisee must charge uniform prices throughout the geographic area in which cable service is provided over its cable system, except that different rates may be offered to commercial rate subscribers, and provided further that reduced rates may be offered to:

a. new subscribers,

b. subscribers adding a service that they have not previously received, or

c. disabled, senior citizen, low income or bulk rate subscribers.

2. To the extent provided by federal law, a franchisee may change its rates and charges only if it has given a minimum of thirty calendar days prior written notice to subscribers and the cable office.

B. The county may regulate rates except to the extent it is prohibited from doing so by state or federal law. Any regulated rate shall be adopted by ordinance and shall be processed in accordance with the provisions of K.C.C. 20.22.060. The cable office shall promptly notify the hearing examiner of any proposed rate changes. The director of the department of information technology is authorized to issue an order to toll the effective date of proposed rates in accordance with the provisions of the FCC rules and to take any other action necessary to implement rate regulation. The director of the department of information technology shall adopt rules governing the regulation of rates that:

1. Are consistent with the FCC's regulations;

2. Provide a reasonable opportunity for consideration of the views of interested parties; and

3. Establish procedures analogous to those set forth by the FCC governing requests that proprietary information produced in the course of a rate proceeding be treated as confidential, to the extent permitted by law. (Ord. 18230 § 84, 2016: Ord. 17142 § 19, 2011: Ord. 14199 § 118, 2001: Ord. 11075 § 2, 1993: Ord. 10159 § 16, 1991).

6.27A.150 Customer service standards.

A. Under normal operating conditions a franchisee shall comply with the customer service standards established under this chapter, the cable rules and its franchise. Such standards shall include, but need not be limited, to the following:

1. The franchisee shall have a local or toll-free telephone number. The franchisee shall have a location and procedure approved by the cable office to ensure that subscribers can conveniently make payments, exchange or accept equipment, receive responses to inquiries and schedule appointments during normal business and evening hours and at least one-half a business day during the weekend.

2. Under normal operating conditions, telephone answer time by the franchisee shall not exceed thirty (30) seconds, average speed of answer, and busy signals shall not occur more than three percent of the time. This requirement shall be met at least ninety (90) percent of the time, measured over any consecutive ninety (90) day period. The franchisee shall use an answering service or be capable of receiving service complaints and system malfunction reports when the business office is closed.

3. Installation work shall be performed in a timely manner. The franchisee shall offer a choice of morning or afternoon appointments within a four (4) hour time period and may offer all day appointments for service, installation, or disconnection if it is necessary to enter the subscriber's residence. If the franchisee fails to keep two (2) or more consecutive scheduled appointments with a subscriber, and fails to give notice to the subscriber at least two (2) hours prior to the scheduled appointment time, the franchisee shall give a service credit to that subscriber.

4. A franchisee must have available twenty-four (24) hours a day, seven (7) days a week, personnel and equipment capable of locating and correcting major cable system outages. A major cable system outage is an outage which results in the loss of cable service to ten (10) or more subscribers on fifty (50) percent or more of the subscribers' channels or picture impairment visible to ten (10) or more subscribers on fifty (50) percent or more of the subscribers' channels. Major cable system outages must be corrected without delay. Corrective action for other cable system outages must be initiated by the franchisee not later than one (1) business day after the customer service call is received and must be completed as promptly as possible. Corrective action for all other service problems must be initiated by the franchisee not later than two (2) business days after the customer service call is received and must be completed as promptly as possible. A franchisee may intentionally interrupt service on the cable system only for good cause and for the shortest time possible. Upon request of a subscriber, the franchisee shall provide a rebate to subscribers, pro-rated, for any service problem cause by the franchisee that exceeds twenty-four (24) hours.

5. A franchisee shall provide each subscriber at the time cable service is installed, and upon request, with written subscriber information, which includes procedures for handling complaints and a schedule of service rates and charges as well as credits required by law.

6. All subscriber bills must clearly indicate charges, broken down to indicate the charge for each service, or group of services charged as a unit, equipment, and any other fees included on the bill.

7. A franchisee is prohibited from offering any service by a negative option.

8. A subscriber may voluntarily disconnect service at any time; however, voluntary disconnection does not excuse a subscriber from fulfilling its contract obligations. A franchisee may disconnect service to a subscriber for cause or if at least thirty (30) days have elapsed after the due date for payment of a bill and the franchisee has provided written notice that service will be disconnected if the bill is not paid in full by a specific date.

9. A franchisee may not refer, or cause to be entered, a negative report to any consumer credit reporting agency, association or business unless thirty (30) days have elapsed after sending notice to the customer at the last service address or billing address of record after disconnection has occurred.

B. The transmission of obscene programming is prohibited. The county expressly reserves the right to restrict or condition the provision of cable services that are otherwise constitutionally unprotected. (Ord. 10159 § 17, 1991).

6.27A.160 Technical standards. A franchisee shall comply with all applicable technical standards including, but not limited to, the National Electrical Safety Code, the National Electric Code, and standards established by the FCC, the National Television Systems Committee and the county. (Ord. 10159 § 18, 1991).

6.27A.170 Minimum facilities and services.

A. Consistent with the Cable Act every cable system constructed, reconstructed or upgraded after December 2, 1991:

1. shall have a two-way capability;

2. shall provide PEG access facilities, equipment, and/or channels; and

3. may be required to provide an institutional network.

B. The county may require, in the franchise agreement, a franchisee to interconnect its system with any or all of the other cable systems in areas of King County so as to enable each such system to carry and cablecast the public, educational and government access programming carried on each system and on institutional networks with channel capacity designated for educational and governmental use. Interconnection may be done by direct cable connection, microwave link, satellite or other appropriate method.

C. A franchisee must make cable service available for the standard installation charge to all persons within its franchise area who request cable service and agree to subscribe for a minimum period of one year if, using the most direct route, the distance the distribution line would be extended to provide service divided by the number of people requesting service is not more than three hundred (300) feet from the cable system, and the drop distance is not more than one hundred fifty (150) feet from the cable system. Cable service shall be provided to all persons who are not within these distances if the person agrees to pay the full cost to provide cable service beyond these distances.

D. The franchisee shall provide, at a minimum, the mix quality and level of services listed in the franchise agreement. Those services within the franchisee's control shall not be changed without thirty (30) days prior written notice to subscribers and the cable office in a manner approved by the cable office, which provides full and clear disclosure of the following:

1. the franchisee's proposed change;

2. the franchise agreement requires certain services; and

3. comments made by subscribers to King County will be considered in evaluating any proposed changes that requires county approval.

E. All franchisees shall provide for immediate access by King County in emergency situations and must have the ability to override programming with emergency programming provided by King County during these emergency situations. (Ord. 10159 § 19, 1991).

6.27A.180 Local origination. A franchisee may be required in the franchise agreement to produce up to two hours of local origination programming per day, seven days per week, for viewing between 4:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. It is the policy of the county to encourage local origination programming, including programming of interest and applicability to children, senior citizen, minority and disabled residents. This section shall not apply to franchises granted prior to December 2, 1991. (10159 § 20, 1991).

6.27A.190 Reports and records.

A. The county and its representatives shall have the authority, upon reasonable notice, to inspect a franchisee's books, records, facilities, and any other items and to require a franchisee to keep, develop and produce books, records, reports, summaries, tests, lists and other items regarding the franchisee's operations in unincorporated King County that the county deems necessary to monitor a franchisee's compliance, its franchise, this chapter, the cable rules, or applicable law. Such authority shall include, but not be limited to, the right to audit a franchisee's books and records and to inspect and test a franchisee's technical facilities.

B. A franchisee shall pay all of the county's costs associated with an audit, reaudit, inspection, reinspection, test or retest if it is determined that the franchisee has not materially complied with its franchise, this chapter, the cable rules, or applicable law. If the audit determines that the franchisee's franchise fee payment was less than the amount owed to the county, the franchisee shall pay to the county any deficiency plus interest on the deficiency equal to twelve percent per annum interest compounded daily from the date the franchise fee payment was due. (Ord. 10159 § 21, 1991).

6.27A.200 Performance evaluation. The cable office may conduct such periodic performance evaluations of a franchisee to ensure compliance with the franchise agreement and all applicable laws and may conduct community needs assessments. A franchisee shall cooperate fully with these evaluations and assessments. If the cable office implements a survey of cable subscribers in connection with a performance evaluation, the franchisee may be required to distribute the cable office's survey to its subscribers at the county's expense. (Ord. 10159 § 22, 1991).

6.27A.210 Revocation, expiration or abandonment.

A. The county executive may revoke the franchise and franchise agreement pursuant to the notice and order procedure contained in this chapter if:

1. a franchisee has committed a material breach of the franchise agreement; or

2. there has occurred an assignment for the benefit of creditors or the appointment of a receiver or trustee to take over the business of the franchisee, whether in a receivership, reorganization, bankruptcy assignment for the benefit of creditors, or other action or proceeding, unless within that one hundred twenty day period such assignment, receivership or trusteeship has been vacated; or

3. any part of the franchise or cable system is foreclosed or sold at a judicial sale.

B. Upon the expiration or revocation of a franchise and franchise agreement or abandonment of the cable system, the county may:

1. require the former franchisee to remove all portions of the cable system from all streets and public property within the franchise area that are above ground or are below ground and constitute a hazard to the health, welfare or safety of county residents and restore county property to the county's reasonable satisfaction. If the former franchisee fails to comply within the time specified, the county may remove any facilities and equipment, restore county property to the county's satisfaction, and recover any costs incurred from the franchisee or its assignees; or

2. require transfer to an owner acceptable to King County or acquire ownership of the cable system for an equitable price in the case of revocation, and at fair market value in the case of any other franchise termination. (Ord. 10159 § 23, 1991).

6.27A.220 Continuity of service mandatory.

A. Subscriber contracts shall give to subscribers the right to receive all available services from the franchisee as long as their financial and other obligations to the franchisee are satisfied.

B. The franchisee must ensure that all subscribers receive continuous, uninterrupted service. In the event of a revocation of the franchise, expiration which occurs without the franchisee having given notice pursuant to this section or abandonment of the cable system, the franchisee shall continue to operate the cable system for a period determined by the cable manager not to exceed eighteen (18) months from the date of such revocation or expiration, in order to provide for an orderly transition to another cable system operator without interruption of service. During such period the cable system must be operated under the same terms and conditions as required by this chapter, the cable rules, and the franchise agreement, except to the extent the county waives any franchise condition.

C. If the franchisee elects not to renew a franchise, the franchisee shall notify the county of its intent not less than twelve (12) months prior to the expiration date of franchise. Failure to provide this notification will subject the franchisee to the continuity of service provision in this section of this chapter. (Ord. 10159 § 24, 1991).

6.27A.230 Enforcement remedies.

A. The county may seek legal and/or equitable relief from any court of competent jurisdiction in the event a person violates this chapter, the cable rules, a franchise agreement, or applicable federal, state or local law. In addition, the county has the right to impose any one or combination of the following remedies: collect liquidated damages as provided for in the franchise agreement, assess civil penalties in an amount up to one hundred dollars per violation, require corrective action to remedy the violation, and/or revoke the franchise and franchise agreement. Each day a violation continues may be considered an additional violation. Any remedy or remedies set forth in this section may be:

1. recovered by legal action filed in King County superior court by the prosecuting attorney on behalf of King County; or

2. imposed by an administrative notice and order issued pursuant to this chapter by the director of the King County department of executive services, provided that only the county executive shall have the authority to revoke a franchise and franchise agreement.

B. In determining which remedy or remedies are appropriate, the county shall take into consideration the nature of the violation and the harm caused by it, the nature of the remedy required in order to remedy such harm and prevent further violations, and such other matters as the cable office determines are appropriate.

C. Failure of the county to enforce any requirements of this chapter, the cable rules, the franchise agreement or applicable law shall not constitute a waiver of the right to enforce that requirement, or subsequent violations of the requirement, or to seek appropriate enforcement remedies, nor shall it relieve a franchisee of the obligation to comply with any requirement.

D. A person's payment of liquidated damages or penalties or the county's imposition of any remedy shall not relieve the person of the obligation to comply with the requirements of this chapter, the cable rules, a franchise agreement, an order of the county or applicable law.

E. Any sum recovered by the county from the required security fund or letter of credit under the terms of this section shall not be a limitation upon the liability of the franchise to the county and shall not constitute an election of remedies.

F. In the event of any dispute between the franchisee and the county arising out of this chapter, the cable rules or the franchise agreement, the franchisee shall pursue and exhaust all available administrative remedies pursuant to law prior to pursuing any appropriate legal action.

G. The revocation or forfeiture of any franchise shall not affect any of the county's rights under the franchise or under any provision of law.

H. No enforcement remedy shall be imposed except in accordance with due process of law. (Ord. 14199 § 119, 2001: Ord. 10159 § 25, 1991).

6.27A.240 Notice and order procedure.

A. Any remedy imposed by administrative notice and order shall be imposed following the procedure outlined in this section.

B. The notice and order shall contain:

1. A statement that the county has found the person to be in violation of this chapter, the cable rules, a franchise agreement or any applicable law, with a brief and concise description of the conditions found to be in violation;

2. A statement of any corrective action required to be taken. If the county has determined that corrective action is required, the order shall require that all corrective action commence within such time and be completed within such time as the county determines is reasonable under the circumstances;

3. A statement specifying the amount of the civil penalty assessed, if any, on account of the violation and, if applicable, the conditions on which assessment of such civil penalty is contingent;

4. A statement advising that the order shall become final unless, after the notice and order are served, any person aggrieved by the order files an appeal in accordance with K.C.C. 20.22.080.

C. Service of the notice and order shall be made upon all persons identified in the notice and order either personally or by mailing a copy of such notice and order by certified mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested. If the address of any such person cannot reasonably be ascertained, a copy of the notice and order shall be mailed to such person at the address of the location of the violation. The failure of any such person to receive such notice shall not affect the validity of any proceedings taken under this chapter. Service by certified mail shall be effective on the date of postmark.

D. Any person aggrieved by the order of the county may appeal that order in accordance with K.C.C. 20.22.080.

E.1. The appeal hearing shall be conducted on the record and the hearing examiner shall have such rule-making and other powers necessary for conduct of the hearing as specified by K.C.C. chapter 20.22. The appeal hearing shall be conducted within a reasonable time after receipt of the request for appeal. Written notice of the time and place of the hearing shall be given at least ten days prior to the date of the hearing to each appealing party, to the cable manager and to other interested person who have requested in writing that they be so notified. The county may submit a report and other evidence indicating the basis for the enforcement order. Each party shall have the following rights, among others:

a. to call and examine witnesses on any matter relevant to the issues of the hearing;

b. to introduce documentary and physical evidence;

c. to cross-examine opposing witnesses on any matter relevant to the issues of the hearing;

d. to impeach any witness regardless of which party first called the witness to testify;

e. to rebut evidence against the party; and

f. to self-represent or to be represented by anyone of the party’s choice who is lawfully permitted to do so.

2. Following review of the evidence submitted, the hearing examiner shall make written findings and conclusions, and shall affirm or modify the order previously issued if the hearing examiner finds that a violation has occurred. The hearing examiner shall reverse the order if the hearing examiner finds that no violation occurred. The written decision of the hearing examiner shall be mailed by certified mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested to all the parties.

F. Enforcement of any notice and order of the county issued under this chapter shall be stayed during the pendency of any appeal under this chapter.

G. An order that is subjected to the appeal procedure shall become final twenty days after mailing of the hearing examiner's decision unless within that time an aggrieved person initiates review by writ of certiorari in King County superior court. (Ord. 18728 § 43, 2018: Ord. 18230 § 85, 2016: Ord. 10159 § 26, 1991).

6.27A.250 Municipal cable system ownership authorized.

A. The county may construct, own, and/or operate a cable system.

B. Nothing in this chapter, the cable rules or a franchise agreement shall be interpreted to affect the right of the county to acquire the property of the franchisee, either by purchase or through the exercise of its right of eminent domain, for an equitable price in the case of revocation, and at fair market value in the case of any other form of franchise termination. Further, nothing in this chapter, the cable rules, or a franchise agreement shall be interpreted to contract away, modify, or abridge, whether for a term or in perpetuity, the county's right of eminent domain. (Ord. 10159 § 27, 1991).

6.27A.260 Administration.

A. This chapter shall be implemented by means of administrative rules adopted by the King County department of executive services in accordance with the provisions of K.C.C. chapter 2.98. These rules shall, at a minimum, contain requirements for applications for new franchises and franchise renewals, modifications and transfers, insurance coverage, security funds, letters of credit, restoration bonds, minimum facilities, service and line extensions, payment of franchise fees, reports and records, customer service, use of public rights-of-way, technical standards, and price arbitration. All rules shall comply with the intent of this chapter and with applicable federal, state and local law. All such rules shall have the force of law.

B. This chapter, the cable rules, and all franchise agreements shall be administered and enforced by the cable office. The functions of the cable office shall be to:

1. implement cable policy, this chapter, the cable rules and franchise agreements;

2. facilitate the resolution of complaints received from any person;

3. supervise government programming with respect to PEG operations or coordinate with any PEG access management authority designated by the county;

4. provide public information;

5. monitor cable policy and related developments in other jurisdictions and make recommendations for changes to county cable television policy;

6. develop and maintain productive relationships with franchisees, other cable system operators, and interested community groups to assure responsiveness to the needs and interests of the community;

7. provide staff assistance to any cable-related advisory committee or regulatory agency hereafter established. (Ord. 14199 § 120, 2001: Ord. 10159 § 28, 1991).

6.27A.270 Applicability to current franchise agreements. This chapter and the cable rules shall be applicable to all existing cable franchises and all franchises issued in the county in the future. (Ord. 10159 § 29, 1991).

6.28 GO KART TRACKS

Sections:

6.28.010 Definitions.

6.28.020 License required ‑ Fee.

6.28.030 Renewal of license, registration or permit ‑ Late penalty.

6.28.040 Compliance with zoning code.

6.28.050 Liability insurance.

6.28.060 Safety standards and specifications.

6.28.070 Reporting accidents and keeping records.

6.28.080 Telephone facilities.

6.28.090 First‑aid kit.

6.28.100 Maintenance and inspections.

6.28.110 Safety helmets.

6.28.120 Penalty for violations.

6.28.130 Civil penalty.

6.28.140 Additional enforcement.

6.28.010 Definitions. For the purposes of this chapter, the words and phrases used herein shall have the following meanings:

A. "Go kart track" means any place of business, whether open to the public or operated on a private or semiprivate basis, whether or not operated for a profit, wherein the use of karts for rides, rentals, demonstrations and/or similar activities reasonably connected therewith and to only include herein those operations commonly referred to as concession tracks.

B. "Go kart" means a miniature self-propelled vehicle designed to be independently operated by the person riding therein and shall include the terms "cart," "go cart" or "kart." (Ord. 1888 Art. V § 22, 1974: Res. 23509 § 1, 1961).

6.28.020 License required ‑ Fee. It is unlawful to open, operate, conduct, manage, maintain or control, or in any way be connected with the opening, operation, conduct, management, maintenance or control of any go kart track without a valid and subsisting license for each location. The license shall be known as a go kart track license, and the fee for the license is fixed in the sum of $500.00 per year. (Ord. 10170 § 8, 1991: Res. 23509 § 2, 1961).

6.28.030 Renewal of license, registration or permit ‑ Late penalty. A late penalty shall be charged on all applications for renewal of a license, registration or permit received later than ten working days after the expiration date of such license, registration or permit as set forth in the respective resolution or ordinance establishing the expiration date of such license, registration or permit. The amount of such penalty is fixed as follows:

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty cents or more, but less than fifty dollars ‑ twenty percent of the required fee.

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty dollars or more, but less than one thousand dollars ‑ ten percent of the required fee.

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of one thousand dollars or more ‑ five percent of the required fee. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 3, 1974).

6.28.040 Compliance with zoning code. It is unlawful for any person to manage, conduct, carry on or own the business of operating a go kart track unless the location and establishment of such business complies with the provisions of the King County zoning code or is deemed a nonconforming use thereunder. (Res. 23509 § 3(1), 1961).

6.28.050 Liability insurance. It is unlawful for any person to manage, conduct, carry on or own the business of operating a go kart track unless such person shall, prior to the conducting, managing, carrying on or establishing of the go kart track, obtain and maintain during the period of operation of the business public liability insurance covering personal injuries, property damage and medical expenses in limits of at least one hundred thousand dollars per occurrence, with at least fifty thousand dollars for any one person per occurrence and with at least five hundred dollars medical expense coverage per person per occurrence. Compliance with this section shall be deemed complete when the person furnishes the director with proof of insurance coverage by a reputable insurance carrier and with an endorsement to the effect that the director shall receive at least ten days notice prior to the cancellation of such insurance coverage of any such person governed by this chapter. (Ord. 1888 Art. V § 23, 1974; Res. 23509 § 3(2), 1961).

6.28.060 Safety standards and specifications. All go kart tracks regulated under the provisions of this chapter shall comply with the following standards and specifications intended to protect and safeguard participants and spectators at tracks:

A. The track surface shall be a smooth, durable, nonskid material such as asphalt or concrete. Gravel or crushed rock surfaces are prohibited.

B. Length of tracks shall not exceed one-quarter mile.

C. Length of straight-of-ways on tracks shall not exceed three hundred feet.

D. Width of track shall be not less than sixteen feet on straight-of-ways and not less than twenty feet on turns.

E. Track may have bank or super only on turns.

F. Grades on track shall not exceed five percent.

G. Track must join with track edge smoothly to avoid a "curb" or drop-off hazard.

H. All tracks must have a safety apron not less than fifteen feet wide between track and fence on straight-of-ways and not less than twenty-five feet wide between the track and fences on curves.

I. All tracks shall be inside a fenced enclosure. The fencing shall be chain link of No. 9 hogwire not less than four feet in height, with fence posts not less than five and one-half feet in height and placed at intervals of not more than fifteen feet.

J. Ingress and egress to the track or pit areas shall be through gates which are kept closed at all times when not in use. Responsible supervision of participants and spectators in the gate and pit areas must be provided at all times during which the go kart track is in operation.

K. Baled hay, rubber tires or similar protective materials shall be placed on all turns or curves at track and shall also be placed in a continuous ring two feet inside chain link fence around the entire track.

L. Track pits shall have separate entrance and exit lanes, shall have the same surface as track, shall be fenced off from spectator areas and a responsible employee shall supervise all pit activities.

M. No person under the age of eight years shall be allowed to drive any go kart at speeds in excess of twelve miles per hour. No person under the age of eleven years shall be allowed to drive any go kart at any speed in excess of twenty miles per hour. Under no circumstances shall go karts subject to the provisions hereof be operated at speeds in excess of twenty miles per hour, except in connection with sales demonstrations of single racing or competition go kart at any one time.

N. Spectator areas must be separated from track and pit areas by fencing as herein provided. Bleachers or grandstands, if any, shall be substantially constructed and properly maintained. Attendants must be on duty to control spectators and parking.

O. All attendants at a go kart track must at all times be under the direct control of a responsible supervisor not less than eighteen years of age during all periods of track use. (Res. 23509 § 3(3), 1961).

6.28.070 Reporting accidents and keeping records. The manager or owner shall report in writing all accidents of a nature to cause unconsciousness, broken or sprained extremities or bones, removal, breaking or loosening of teeth, hemorrhaging or lacerations which may require suturing or eye injuries to the director. Records thereof shall be maintained on the premises of all medical aid or care administered. (Ord. 1888 Art. V § 24, 1974; Res. 23509 § 4(a), 1961).

6.28.080 Telephone facilities. Track owners shall provide a telephone facility available for use on-site. Telephone numbers of emergency medical services of facilities should be conspicuously posted thereon. Such telephone shall be available for emergency use at all times during which the track is in operation. (Ord. 18728 § 44, 2018: Res. 23509 § 4(b), 1961).

6.28.090 First‑aid kit. A first-aid kit approved by the director shall be maintained and be readily available on the track premises for emergency treatment or care of a minor nature at all times during which the track is in operation. (Ord. 1888 Art. V § 25, 1974; Res. 23509 § 4(c), 1961).

6.28.100 Maintenance and inspections. Go kart tracks and all related facilities and equipment shall be maintained in good repair. (Ord. 1888 Art. V § 26, 1974; Res. 23509 § 4(d), 1961).

6.28.110 Safety helmets. All persons riding go karts during periods of track operation shall be required to wear standard safety or "crash" helmets.

(Res. 23509 § 4(e), 1961).

6.28.120 Penalty for violations. Any person violating, or failing to comply with, any of the provisions of this chapter shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction thereof shall be punished as prescribed by law. (Res. 23509 § 7, 1961).

6.28.130 Civil penalty. In addition to or as an alternative to any other penalty provided herein or by law any person who violates any provision of any business license ordinance shall be subject to a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars per violation to be directly assessed by the director. The director, in a reasonable manner, may vary the amount of the penalty assessed to consider the appropriateness of the penalty to the size of the business of the violator; the gravity of the violation; the number of past and present violations committed and the good faith of the violator in attempting to achieve compliance after notification of the violation. All civil penalties assessed will be enforced and collected in accordance with the procedure specified under this title. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 1, 1974).

6.28.140 Additional enforcement. Notwithstanding the existence or use of any other remedy, the director may seek legal or equitable relief to enjoin any acts or practices which constitute or will constitute a violation of any business license ordinance or other regulations herein adopted. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 2, 1974).

6.32 HEATING, AIR CONDITIONING AND VENTILATION SYSTEMS INSTALLERS

Sections:

6.32.010 License required - fee - application of chapter to manufacturers.

6.32.020 Time limit for license application - expiration date of license.

6.32.030 Bond - Amount and terms - recovery when more than one claim - suspension of license for reduction in amount of bond.

6.32.010 License required - fee - application of chapter to manufacturers. It is unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to engage in the business of, or to make representation as being engaged in the business of selling, installing, altering or repairing heating, air-conditioning, ventilation and exhaust systems equipment, without first procuring and being the holder of a valid and subsisting license so to do, to be known as a "HEATING, AIR-CONDITIONING, VENTILATION SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT INSTALLERS LICENSE," the fee for which is fixed in the sum of fifty dollars per year; provided, however that the terms of this chapter shall not apply to the manufacture of heating, air-conditioning, ventilation and exhaust systems as above defined. (Ord. 780 (part), 1971: Ord. 205 § 1, 1969: Res. 16957 (part), 1957; Res. 12750 § 3, 1951).

6.32.020 Time limit for license application - expiration date of license. All persons engaged in the business of selling, installing, altering or repairing heating, air-conditioning, ventilation and exhaust systems equipment, at the time this title takes effect, shall make application for a license hereunder within ten days after this title takes effect.

All heating, air-conditioning, ventilation systems and equipment installers licenses shall expire on June 30th of each year. (Ord. 780 (part), 1971: Res. 16957 (part), 1957; Res. 13363 (part), 1952; Res. 12750 § 5, 1951).

6.32.030 Bond - Amount and terms - recovery when more than one claim - suspension of license for reduction in amount of bond.

A. No heating, air-conditioning, ventilation systems and equipment installers license shall be granted until the applicant has furnished a good and sufficient bond, in a form approved by the director, in the penal sum of one thousand dollars, executed by the applicant for license as principal and by a surety company authorized to do business in this state running to the county of King, state of Washington, and conditioned on the following:

1. That the principal will abide by the terms of this title and ordinances relating to the sale, installation, alteration or repair of heating, air-conditioning, ventilation and exhaust systems equipment;

2. To save harmless and indemnify King County from all and any loss, damages, actions and claims of any kind or character that may accrue to or be suffered by any person by reason of failure of the principal or the principal's servants and agents to abide by the terms of this title and all ordinances relating to the sale, installation, alteration or repair or heating, air-conditioning, ventilation and exhaust systems equipment.

3. To save harmless and indemnify all persons for damages sustained on account of the failure of the principal of such bond to comply with the terms of this title and all ordinances relating to the sale, installation, alteration or repair of heating, air-conditioning, ventilation and exhaust systems equipment;

4. Claims shall be maintained under the bond only if the claimant serves upon the surety and King County notice of the amount of such claim and the nature thereof within six months after the principal on the bond is completed or abandoned the work giving rise to the claim, whereupon any bona fide payment of any such claim by the surety, with prompt notice thereof to King County, shall reduce the amount of the bond by the amount so provided, that if there is at one time more than one unliquidated claim under the bond, of which notice has been given as herein provided, and the total of such unliquidated claims exceeds the amount of the bond at that time, the recoveries shall be prorated so that the totals of recoveries against the surety under any circumstances shall not exceed one thousand dollars, except as the bond may be reinstated with King County.

B. In the event any such bond or extension thereof is terminated or the amount thereof reduced, any license granted under K.C.C. 6.32.010 shall be suspended until such time as there is filed with King County a consent of the surety to the restoration of the amount of the bond to the full sum of one thousand dollars or until the filing of a new bond in the sum of one thousand dollars, any such consent of surety or new bond is approved as provided for a new bond. (Ord. 18728 § 45, 2018: Ord. 780 (part), 1971: Res. 16957 (part), 1957; Res. 12750 § 4, 1951).

6.36 JUNK DEALERS

Sections:

6.36.010 License required.

6.36.020 Definitions.

6.36.030 License fee.

6.36.040 Application for license.

6.36.050 Renewal of license, registration or permit ‑ Late penalty.

6.36.060 Personal property tax return.

6.36.070 Vehicle markings.

6.36.080 Records required.

6.36.090 Compliance required.

6.36.100 Records and articles to be available for inspection.

6.36.110 Seller to give true name.

6.36.120 Certain transactions prohibited.

6.36.130 No sale within ten days.

6.36.140 Police officers to be admitted.

6.36.150 Violation a misdemeanor.

6.36.160 Civil penalty.

6.36.170 Additional enforcement.

6.36.010 License required.

A. Junk Shop License: It is unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to operate or maintain a junk shop without first obtaining a "junk shop license" pursuant to the provisions of this chapter.

B. Junk Wagon License: It is unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to operate or maintain a junk wagon without first obtaining and displaying a valid and subsisting "junk wagon license" pursuant to the provisions of this chapter. (Res. 36055 § 1, 1968).

6.36.020 Definitions.

A. Junk: The word "junk" as used in this chapter shall be deemed to include and mean old rope, old iron, brass, copper, tin, lead, rags, empty bottles, paper, bagging, scrap metals of all kinds, and other worn out or discarded material.

B. "Junk shop" means any storeroom, building, yard, enclosure, or other place where junk is sold, bought, received or stored shall be deemed to be a JUNK "junk shop" within the meaning of this chapter; provided, however, that such definition shall not apply where junk is:

1. Purchased from a source other than a junk wagon and is in prepared form by baling, pressing, or otherwise; or in carload lots; or cut to specifications; or

2. Purchased from a licensed junk shop; or

3. Purchased directly from the industrial producer of scrap metals, by the consumer there; or

4. Purchased by automobile wreckers where automobiles are purchased and a certificate of title furnished.

C. "Junk wagon" means any vehicle used for the purpose of going from house to house, place to place, buying or offering to buy, picking up or collecting junk and transporting such junk, wholly or in part, within King County, regardless of where the junk has been bought or collected, other than a vehicle used by a regularly licensed junk shop in disposition of its own junk, is declared to be a "junk wagon" within the meaning of this chapter. (Res. 36055 § 2, 1968).

6.36.030 License fee.

A. Junk Shop License: The fee for a junk shop license shall be three hundred dollars per year payable on the thirty-first of December preceding the year for which the license is issued. Fees becoming due for less than one year shall be prorated on a quarterly basis.

B. Junk Wagon License Fee: The fee for a junk wagon license shall be forty dollars per year payable on the thirty-first of December preceding the year for which the license is issued. Fees becoming due for less than one year shall be prorated on a quarterly basis. (Ord. 10170 § 9, 1991: Ord. 5799 § 5, 1981: Res. 36055 § 3, 1968).

6.36.040 Application for license. All applications for issuance or renewal of a junk shop license or a junk wagon license shall be made to and be filed with the director on forms furnished for such purpose. This application shall state the true name of the applicant, who shall not be less than eighteen years of age, the names of all persons having a financial, proprietary, or other interest in such junk shop together with such other information as the director deems appropriate. The application shall then be referred to the Department of Public Safety for investigation, report and recommendation. If from the reports and other information available, the director deems the applicant to be a fit and proper person, the director shall issue or renew the license applied for. (Ord. 1888 Art. V § 27, 1974: Res. 36055 § 4, 1968).

6.36.050 Renewal of license, registration or permit ‑ Late penalty. A late penalty shall be charged on all applications for renewal of a license, registration or permit received later than ten working days after the expiration date of such license, registration or permit as set forth in the respective resolution or ordinance establishing the expiration date of such license, registration or permit. The amount of such penalty is fixed as follows:

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty cents or more but less than fifty dollars ‑ twenty percent of the required fee.

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty dollars or more, but less than one thousand dollars ‑ ten percent of the required fee.

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of one thousand dollars or more ‑ five percent of the required fee. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 3, 1974).

6.36.060 Personal property tax return. No renewal license shall issue to any junk shop owner or to any junk wagon owner until the applicant shall show that the owner has made a return to the King County assessor of the property in the owner's possession or ownership and the value thereof for tax assessment purposes and has paid the tax due. (Ord. 18728 § 46, 2018: Res. 36055 § 5, 1968).

6.36.070 Vehicle markings. Every licensee operating a junk wagon shall obtain from the director two junk wagon vehicle licenses for each vehicle to be so used. On each license there shall be stamped or painted the word "junk" and the license number of the licensee. Each license shall be securely fastened to each outer side of the vehicle. In addition, such vehicle shall also be prominently and plainly marked with the name of the licensee and the street address of the licensee's place of business. The vehicle marking license shall remain the property of King County, and it is unlawful for any person other than the licensee to whom the plates were issued to possess or use any such plate. Plates possessed or used in violation of this section, or used after the junk wagon license has expired or been suspended, or if by a dealer, after the dealer's junk shop license has expired or been suspended, shall be taken up by any sheriff's deputy or the director. (Ord. 18728 § 47, 2018: Ord. 1888 Art. V § 28, 1974: Res. 36055 § 6, 1968).

6.36.080 Records required. Every person who maintains or operates a junk shop and/or a junk wagon shall provide and keep a book in which shall be plainly written in ink, in the English language, at the time of every purchase, a description of the article purchased, the printed name, signature, age, street and house number, the general description of the dress, complexion, color and appearance of the person from whom such purchase is made, and the day and hour of such purchase. All such records shall be present at the junk shop or junk wagon, and shall be at all times available for inspection by officers of the Department of Public Safety. (Ord. 1888 Art. V § 29, 1974: Res. 36055 § 7, 1968).

6.36.090 Compliance required. It is unlawful for any junk shop or junk wagon owner, or any clerk, agent, or employee of such junk shop or junk wagon to fail, neglect or refuse to make any material entry in the records required herein, or to make any false entry therein, or to obliterate, destroy or remove from the place of business such record within five years from the date of transaction. (Ord. 18728 § 48, 2018: Res. 36055 § 8, 1968).

6.36.100 Records and articles to be available for inspection. All books and other records of any junk shop operator or any junk wagon operator relating to the purchase or receipt of any goods, wares, merchandise, junk, or other articles or things of value, shall be at all times open for inspection by the sheriff or deputy; and all junk wagon operators shall at any time allow inspection of their license and junk or other articles contained in the junk wagon. (Ord. 18728 § 49, 2018: Ord. 1888 Art. V § 30, 1974: Res. 36055 § 9, 1968).

6.36.110 Seller to give true name. Anyone who sells or otherwise gives any property to a junk shop operator or junk wagon operator shall sign the records required to be kept by such operator with the person's true name and shall include the person's correct residence address. (Ord. 18728 § 50, 2018: Res. 36055 § 10, 1968).

6.36.120 Certain transactions prohibited.

A. It is unlawful for any person to purchase any junk from any person under the age of eighteen years, without receiving from such person a written authority from the person owning such junk, authorizing the person selling the junk to sell the junk. Such a written authority shall be placed on file by the person receiving such junk. It is unlawful for any junk shop operator or junk wagon operator to receive any article or thing known by the operator to be stolen, any article or thing from any person who is under eighteen years of age; intoxicated; an habitual drunkard; addicted to the use of drugs; or from any person who is known to be a thief or a receiver of stolen property, or from any person who the operator has reason to suspect or believe to be such.

B. It is unlawful for any operator of a junk shop, or person operating a junk wagon to purchase any junk between the hours of seven p.m. and seven a.m. of the following day. (Ord. 18728 § 51, 2018: Ord. 624 § 1, 1970: Res. 36055 § 11, 1968).

6.36.130 No sale within ten days. No junk shop operator or junk wagon operator shall sell or otherwise dispose of any article received or purchased by the operator, or remove or permit the same to be removed from the operator's place of business within ten days after receipt of the articles have been reported to the sheriff's office as herein provided, except when the articles have been inspected by a regular member of the sheriff's office, and the operator has been authorized to dispose of such goods within a lesser time. (Ord. 18728 § 52, 2018: Ord. 1888 Art. V § 31, 1974: Res. 36055 § 12, 1968).

6.36.140 Police officers to be admitted. It is unlawful for any operator of a junk shop or a junk wagon to refuse to allow any sheriff's deputy to inspect the operator's place of business or the operator's junk wagon, and all articles of junk kept therein, or to conceal or hide away any article or thing bought or received by the operator. (Ord. 18728 § 53, 2018: Res. 36055 § 13, 1968).

6.36.150 Violation a misdemeanor. Any violation of the provisions of this chapter shall constitute a misdemeanor. (Res. 36055 § 14, 1968).

6.36.160 Civil penalty. In addition to or as an alternative to any other penalty provided herein or by law any person who violates any provision of any business license ordinance shall be subject to a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars per violation to be directly assessed by the director. The director, in a reasonable manner, may vary the amount of the penalty assessed to consider the appropriateness of the penalty to the size of the business of the violator; the gravity of the violation; the number of past and present violations committed and the good faith of the violator in attempting to achieve compliance after notification of the violation. All civil penalties assessed will be enforced and collected in accordance with the procedure specified under this title. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 1, 1974).

6.36.170 Additional enforcement. Notwithstanding the existence or use of any other remedy, the director may seek legal or equitable relief to enjoin any acts or practices which constitute or will constitute a violation of any business license ordinance or other regulations herein adopted. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 2, 1974).

6.40 MASSAGE PARLORS AND PUBLIC BATHHOUSES

Sections:

6.40.010 Definitions.

6.40.020 General provisions.

6.40.030 License required.

6.40.040 License application and issuance.

6.40.050 Standards for denial of license.

6.40.060 Expiration of license ‑ due date for license fees.

6.40.070 License fees.

6.40.080 Requirements for licensing/operation.

6.40.090 Transfer of licenses and change of location.

6.40.100 Safety and sanitation.

6.40.110 Standards of conduct.

6.40.120 Standards for suspension or revocation of license.

6.40.130 Violation ‑ penalties.

6.40.010 Definitions. For the purpose of this chapter, the following terms, words and phrases shall have the following meanings:

A. "Massage business" means the operation of a business where massages are given.

B. "Public bathhouse" means any place where baths or facilities for baths of any kind whatever are given or furnished and the term shall include but not be limited to: Finnish baths; Russian baths; Sauna baths; Swedish baths; Turkish baths; hot tubs; baths by hot air, steam, vapor, water or electric cabinet; provided, that such term shall not include ordinary tub or shower baths where attendant is not required.

C. "Massage practitioner" means a person engaged in the practice of massage.

D. "Genitals" includes genitals, pubic area, anus, or perineum of any person, or the vulva or breasts of a female.

E. "Massage" means the treatment of a human body by another by the external manipulation or pressure of soft tissue. Massage includes rubbing, kneading, touching, stroking, or tapping by manual means as they relate to massage with or without the aids of superficial heat, cold, water, lubricants, or salts. (Ord. 7919 § 2, 1987).

6.40.020 General provisions. Unless otherwise specified, the general licensing provisions, contained in King County Code, Chapter 6.01, shall apply to this license section. (Ord. 7919 § 3, 1987).

6.40.030 License required.

A. Massage business ‑ public bathhouse. It is unlawful to conduct, operate or maintain a massage business or public bathhouse unless such establishment or premises is licensed as hereinafter provided.

B. Massage practitioner. It is unlawful for any person to give a massage without a massage practitioner license.

C. Exemptions. This chapter shall not apply to:

1. An individual giving massage in their home to members of their immediate family;

2. Physicians, surgeons, chiropractors, osteopaths, acupuncturists, or physical therapists who are duly licensed or certified to practice their respective professions in the State of Washington;

3. Persons practicing massage under the direct supervision of physicians, surgeons, chiropractors, osteopaths, or physical therapists duly licensed by the State of Washington. Direct supervision shall mean that the massage is given on the premises of or in the presence of such physicians, surgeons, chiropractors, osteopaths, or physical therapists;

4. Nurses who are registered as such under the laws of the State of Washington and who act under the direction and control of a duly licensed physician;

5. Persons authorized by the laws of this state as barbers and cosmetologists, provided that such massage as is practiced is within their authorized scope of practice;

6. Massage practiced at the athletic department of any institution maintained by the public funds of the state, or any of its political divisions; or

7. Massage practiced at the athletic department of any school or college accredited by the northwest association of secondary and higher schools. (Ord. 7919 § 4, 1987).

6.40.040 License application and issuance.

A. All applications for a massage business/public bathhouse shall be submitted in the name of the person or entity proposing to conduct such massage business/public bathhouse on the business premises and shall be signed by the person or the person's agent and notarized or certified as true under penalty of perjury. All applications shall be submitted on a form supplied by the director, which shall require the following information:

1. The name, home address, home telephone number, date and place of birth and social security number of the applicant if the applicant is an individual;

2. The business name, address and telephone number of the establishment;

3. The names, addresses, telephone numbers, and social security numbers of any partners, corporate officers, shareholders who own ten percent or more of the business, or other persons who have a substantial interest or management responsibilities in connection with the business, specifying the interest or management responsibility of each. For the purpose of this subsection "substantial interest" shall mean ownership of ten percent or more of the business, or any other kind of contribution to the business of the same or greater size; and

4. Terms of any loans, leases, secured transactions and repayments therefor relating to the business;

B. All applications for a massage practitioner's license shall be signed by the applicant and notarized or certified to be true under penalty of perjury. All applications shall be submitted on a form supplied by the director, which shall require, at a minimum, the following information:

1. The applicant's name, home address, home telephone number, date and place of birth;

2. A letter from the owner of the business indicating intent to employ the applicant; and

3. Written proof that the applicant is eighteen years of age or older. Written proof shall mean the following:

a. a motor vehicle operator's license issued by any State bearing the applicant's photograph and date of birth;

b. an identification card issued by the state of Washington which bears the applicant's photograph and date of birth; or

c. a passport.

C. Applications will be submitted to a background check in accordance with the procedures of the sheriff's office.

D. A license shall be issued within four weeks of receipt if there are no grounds to deny the license pursuant to the sections of this code. (Ord. 18728 § 54, 2018: Ord. 7919 § 5, 1987).

6.40.050 Standards for denial of license.

A. Massage business or public bathhouse license.

1. The director shall deny any massage business/public bathhouse license applied for under this chapter if the director determines that the applicant has:

a. made any material misstatement in the application for a license;

b. proposed a place of business or an establishment to be licensed which would not comply with all applicable requirements of this code including but not limited to the zoning, building, health or fire codes of King County; or

c. not complied with the operating requirements set out in Section 6.40.080 of this chapter.

2. The director may deny any massage business/public bathhouse license applied for under this chapter if the director determines that the applicant has, within three years prior to the date of application:

a. had any convictions or bail forfeitures that have a direct connection with the licensed activity including, but not limited to, theft, controlled substances, prostitution, promoting or permitting prostitution, sexual offenses, consumer fraud, or obscenity; or

b. had a massage business/bathhouse license denied or revoked by this county or any other jurisdiction.

B. Massage practitioner license.

1. The director shall deny any massage practitioner license if the director determines that the applicant/licensee has:

a. made any material misstatement in the application for a license; or

b. not complied with the operating requirements set out in K.C.C. 6.40.080.

2. The director may deny any massage practitioner's license if the director determines that the applicant/licensee has:

a. had any convictions or bail forfeitures which have a direct connection with the licensed activity including, but not limited to, theft, controlled substances, prostitution, sexual offenses, consumer fraud or obscenity, within three years prior to the date of application; or

b. had a massage practitioner license revoked or suspended by the county or any other jurisdiction within one year prior to the date of application.

C. If any applicant has the applicant's license denied under K.C.C. 6.40.050 A.2.a. or B.2.a., a license may not be granted within three years from the date of the denial, if the denial was based on a conviction classified as a felony. All other convictions under K.C.C. 6.40.050 A.2.a. or B.2.a. will preclude the issuance of a license under this chapter for a period of at least one year from the date of such denial. All applicants must comply with all application procedures, pursuant to this chapter. (Ord. 18728 § 55, 2018: Ord. 7919 § 6, 1987).

6.40.060 Expiration of license ‑ due date for license fees. Every license issued or renewed pursuant to this chapter shall expire on the thirtieth of November. All license fees, set out in Section 6.40.070 of this chapter, are payable to the director at least four weeks prior to the opening of any massage business or public bathhouse, or the performance of massage in any massage business or public bathhouse. (Ord. 7919 § 7, 1987).

6.40.070 License fees. The following fees are applicable to the licensing of massage businesses, public bathhouses and massage practitioners in King County as required in this chapter:

A. Massage business $150.00 per year

B. Public bathhouse $150.00 per year

C. Massage practitioner $ 50.00 per year

D. Late penalty ‑ A late penalty shall be charged on all applications for renewal of a license received later than ten working days after the expiration date of such license. The amount of such penalty is fixed as follows:

1. Massage business. $ 15.00

2. Public bathhouse $ 15.00

3. Massage practitioner $ 5.00

(Ord. 7919 § 8, 1987).

6.40.080 Requirements for licensing/operation.

A. The director shall refer applications for massage business - public bathhouse to the Seattle-King County department of public health and the King County fire marshal with a request to inspect the premises or proposed premises and submit a written report as to its sanitary and safety conditions. An application for a massage business conducted in the applicant's home shall not be referred to the King County fire marshal. All licensees shall:

1. Comply with the applicable safety and sanitation requirements of K.C.C. 6.40.100;

2. Keep business receipts showing the date of service or services given, the type of service or services rendered and the name and license number of the employee rendering the service or services. These business receipts shall be retained for a period of three years after the date of the service or services, and shall be open to inspection by the director and the King County department of public safety;

3. Allow any police officer, the director or a representative from the Seattle-King County department of public health or the King County fire marshal entry to the premises during the hours the massage business or public bathhouse is open for business, upon presentation of proper identification, for purposes of inspecting the premises;

4. Provide that all doors in the premises, excluding doors in office and storage rooms, unless the doors provide access to service areas, are so equipped that they may not be fastened shut so as to prevent reasonable access by authorities listed in subsection A.2 or 3. of this section who announce their authority to enter prior to inspection of the premises;

5. Comply with the applicable standards of conduct requirements set out in K.C.C. 6.40.110;

6. Comply with the applicable provisions of the King County building, fire and zoning codes;

7. Submit proof of a current Washington State massage business license;

8. Shall post in a prominent place a list of all services offered with a brief description of what the service entails along with the costs for such services. All business transactions with customers must be conducted in accordance with said posted list; and

9. Shall not distribute or consume liquor or controlled substances on licensed premises.

B. All applicants for a massage practitioner's license or license renewal shall:

1. Be at least eighteen years of age;

2. Submit to a background check in accordance with the procedures of the King County department of public safety;

3. Submit proof of a current Washington State massage license;

4. Comply with the applicable standards of conduct requirements of K.C.C. 6.40.110; and

5. Comply with the applicable safety and sanitation requirements of K.C.C. 6.40.100. (Ord. 15319 § 2, 2005: Ord. 9508, 1990: Ord. 7919 § 9, 1987).

6.40.090 Transfer of licenses and change of location.

A. No massage business or public bathhouse license issued under this chapter shall be transferable from one person to another. Upon the sale or transfer of any substantial interest in a massage business/public bathhouse, the license therefore shall be null and void. A new application shall be made by any person desiring to operate or maintain the establishment and shall include a release of interest statement from the previous licensee and/or a signed lease or rental agreement for the establishment.

B. The massage practitioner license, when issued, shall be valid only for the massage establishment listed on the license. However, if the practitioner provides massage solely in the client's home, the license will so note and will be valid for such purpose. Before commencing work as a massage practitioner for a new employer, a massage practitioner shall submit a letter from the new employer indicating intent to employ the applicant and must have the massage practitioner's license amended by the director for a fee of two dollars. (Ord. 18728 § 56, 2018: Ord. 7919 § 10, 1987).

6.40.100 Safety and sanitation. Health and sanitary requirements may include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:

A. Each room or enclosure where massage services are performed on patrons shall be provided with adequate lighting in accordance with the building code, and in addition, at least one artificial light of not less than forty watts shall be provided in each room or enclosure where services are performed on patrons and shall be in operation when such services are performed;

B. The premises shall have equipment for disinfecting and cleaning non-disposable instruments and materials used in administering massage services. Such materials and instruments shall be cleaned after each use;

C. Hot and cold running water shall be provided at all times;

D. Closed cabinets shall be provided and used for the storage of all equipment, supplies and clean linens. All used disposable materials and soiled linens and towels shall be kept in covered containers or cabinets, which containers or cabinets shall be kept separate from clean storage cabinets;

E. Clean linen and towels shall be provided for each massage patron. No common use of towels or linens shall be permitted;

F. All massage tables, bathtubs, shower stalls, sauna baths, steam or bath areas and all floors shall have surfaces which may be readily cleaned;

G. Oils, creams, lotions or other preparations used in administering massages shall be kept in clean containers or cabinets;

H. Shower or bathtub, dressing, locker and toilet facilities shall be provided upon request for all patrons served at any given time. Upon the request of a patron, the licensee shall provide the patron with facilities to lock or secure personal property. Patrons of different genders shall not simultaneously use common shower or bathtub, dressing, toilet and massage room facilities;

I. All walls, ceilings, floors, pools, showers, bathtubs, steam rooms and all other physical facilities shall be in good repair and maintained in a clean and sanitary condition. Wet and dry heat rooms, steam or vapor rooms, or steam or vapor cabinets, shower compartments, and toilet rooms shall be thoroughly cleaned each day the business is in operation. Bathtubs and showers shall be thoroughly cleaned after each use;

J. Each massage practitioner shall wash the massage practitioner's hands in hot running water using soap or disinfectant before and after administering a massage to each patron;

K. No person shall consume food or beverages in massage work areas;

L. Animals, except for seeing-eye dogs, shall not be permitted in massage establishments;

M. A person suffering from infectious or contagious disease or diseases shall not be treated by any licensed massage business or public bathhouse or massage practitioner. A massage practitioner who is suffering from infectious or contagious disease or diseases shall not administer massage services; and

N. All massage establishments shall continuously comply with all applicable building, fire or health ordinances and regulations. (Ord. 18728 § 57, 2018: Ord. 7919 § 11, 1987).

6.40.110 Standards of conduct.

A. The following standards of conduct and operation must be adhered to by the owner, proprietor, manager or person in charge of any massage business or public bathhouse:

1. Any person who is employed to give a massage in such establishment must be at least eighteen years of age and be validly licensed as a massage practitioner;

2. At all times during the hours held open for business or during the presence of patrons, or both, at least one validly licensed massage practitioner must be on the premises. Public bathhouses must have a manager or supervisor on the premises at all times during the hours held open for business and/or during the presence of patrons; and

3. Any person who is employed by such establishment must present documentation that the employee has attained the age of eighteen years when an inspection pursuant to this chapter is conducted. Any of the following shall be accepted as documentation of age:

a. a motor vehicle operator's license issued by any state bearing the applicant's photograph and date of birth;

b. an identification card issued by the state of Washington bearing the applicant's photograph and date of birth; or

c. a passport.

B. It shall be unlawful for any employee or agent or any massage business or public bathhouse to:

1. Intentionally touch or manipulate the genitals of a massage patron;

2. Masturbate or fondle the genital area of a massage patron;

3. Administer a massage to a massage patron unless such massage practitioner's sexual and genital body parts are completely covered by opaque clothing; or

4. Administer a massage to massage patrons in the same room or enclosure at the same time.

C. Any violation of this section shall be grounds for revocation or suspension of the license. (Ord. 18728 § 58, 2018: Ord. 7919 § 12, 1987).

6.40.120 Standards for suspension or revocation of license.

A.1. The director shall revoke or suspend a massage business/public bathhouse license if the director determines that the licensee has:

a. failed to comply with the applicable safety and sanitation requirements in K.C.C. 6.40.100;

b. failed to comply with the applicable standards of conduct in K.C.C. 6.40.110;

c. failed to comply with the applicable building, fire and zoning code provisions; or

d. employed persons who, within one year, have been convicted of prostitution or consumer fraud stemming from activities conducted on the licensed premises, or who have been arrested for such offenses and that lead to such convictions, but only if there are two or more such convictions within one year, or two or more arrests leading to such convictions within one year.

2. The director may revoke or suspend a massage business/public bathhouse license if he determines that the licensee has:

a. failed to comply with any of the operating requirements in K.C.C. 6.40.080 of this chapter;

b. had any convictions or bail forfeitures which have a direct connection with the licensed activity, including, but not limited to, consumer fraud, theft, controlled substances, prostitution, permitting or promoting prostitution, sexual offenses or obscenity; or

c. failed to comply with or done anything which constitutes a basis for denying a license.

3. If the director determines during an inspection that the condition of any massage business needs correction, a written notice of violation shall be issued to the supervisor, manager, owner or person in charge specifying such violations. Those same violations shall be remedied immediately or by a later date determined by the director. Failure to comply with any written notice of violation by the director to make corrections may result in suspension or revocation of the massage business.

B.1. The director shall suspend or revoke any massage practitioner's license if the director determines that the licensee has failed to comply with the applicable standards of conduct in K.C.C. 6.40.110.

2. The director may suspend or revoke any massage practitioner's license if the director determines that the licensee has:

a. failed to comply with any of the operating requirements in K.C.C. 6.40.080;

b. had any convictions or bail forfeitures which have a direct connection with the licensed activity including, but not limited to, theft, controlled substances, prostitution, consumer fraud, obscenity or sexual offenses; or

c. failed to comply with or done anything which constitutes a basis for denying a license.

C. If any applicant under this chapter has the applicant's license revoked, a license shall not be granted under this chapter for a period of at least one year from the date of such revocation.

D. The director may suspend a license for no more than six months. (Ord. 18728 § 59, 2018: Ord. 7919 § 13, 1987).

6.40.130 Violation ‑ penalties.

A. Misdemeanor. Every person as principal, agent or otherwise, failing, neglecting or refusing to comply with any provision of this chapter, or violating the same, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. Each day of such failure, neglect or refusal to comply with the provision of this chapter or the violation of same shall constitute a separate offense hereunder.

B. Civil penalty. In addition to or as an alternative to any other penalty provided herein or by law any person who violates any provision or any business license ordinance shall be subject to a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed two-hundred-fifty dollars per violation to be directly assessed by the director. The director, in a reasonable manner, may vary the amount of the penalty assessed to consider the appropriateness of the penalty to the size of the business of the violator; the gravity of the violation; the number of past and present violations committed and the good faith of the violator in attempting to achieve compliance after notification of the violation. All civil penalties assessed will be enforced and collected in accordance with the procedure specified under this title.

C. Additional enforcement. Notwithstanding the existence or use of any other remedy, the director may seek legal or equitable relief to enjoin any acts or practices which constitute a violation of any business license ordinance or other regulations herein adopted. (Ord. 7919 § 14, 1987).

6.52 OUTDOOR MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENTS

Sections:

6.52.010 Permit required.

6.52.020 Application for permit.

6.52.030 Permit fee.

6.52.040 Submission of plans for approval ‑ Approving agencies.

6.52.050 Conditions for permit issuance.

6.52.060 Hours of operation.

6.52.070 Renewal of license, registration or permit ‑ Late penalty.

6.52.080 Violation ‑ Misdemeanor.

6.52.090 Failure to comply.

6.52.100 Civil penalty.

6.52.110 Additional enforcement.

6.52.010 Permit required. It is unlawful for any person, persons, corporation, organization, landowner, or lessor to allow, encourage, organize, promote, conduct, permit or cause to be advertised an entertainment, amusement, or assembly of persons wherein the primary purpose will be the presentation of outdoor, live or recorded musical entertainment which the person, persons, or corporation, organization, landowner or lessor believes or has reason to believe will attract two hundred fifty or more persons and where a charge or contribution is required for admission unless a valid county permit has been obtained for the operation of the assembly; provided, however, that the assembly may be advertised by the sponsors and/or organizers thereof after application for such permit has been made. (Ord. 187 § 1, 1969).

6.52.020 Application for permit. Written application for outdoor musical amusements, entertainments or assembly permits shall be made to the director forty or more days prior to the date upon which such assembly is scheduled to be held. Written notice of approval or disapproval of the application shall be given to the applicant no later than fifteen days after the application has been filed. Permits shall not be denied providing the conditions enumerated in Section 6.52.020 are met by the applicant. Provided that no permit may be granted to anyone who has been convicted of a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude. Provided further that each application shall be accompanied by the fingerprints and a three by five inch photograph of each and every person having any proprietary interest in the licensed activity. The director shall be empowered to obtain adequate photographs of all persons having any proprietary interest. (Ord. 1888 Art. V § 48, 1974: Ord. 187 § 2, 1969).

6.52.030 Permit fee. The basic fee required shall be seven hundred fifty dollars for each event. (Ord. 10451 § 2, 1992: Ord. 10469 § 2, 1992: Ord. 10170 § 12, 1991: Ord. 1888 Art. V § 49, 1974: Ord. 187 § 3, 1969).

6.52.040 Submission of plans for approval ‑ Approving agencies. Whenever approval by a governmental agency other than the director is required hereunder, the applicant for such approval shall be required to cooperate fully with such agencies to insure that full review of the proposals may be accomplished by the agencies within the fifteen day time limit set out in Section 6.52.020. When any type of physical facility is required or subject to approval hereunder preliminary approval may be granted based upon specific plans proposed and submitted by the applicant. All such facilities shall be in existence five or more days before the event for which an application is submitted and shall be subject to inspection by the approving agencies or departments. Should the actual facility or construction fail to meet the standards approved in the proposed plans such preliminary approval may be withdrawn and any and all permits granted subject to such approval may be withdrawn. (Ord. 1888 Art. V § 50, 1974: Ord. 187 § 4, 1969).

6.52.050 Conditions for permit issuance.

A. No permit for an outdoor musical assembly shall be granted unless the assembly is to be held in those areas of unincorporated King County that have been zoned for parks and recreation. However, a permit may be granted for other areas if a zoning variance has been granted in advance by the executive department for the location.

B. No permit shall be granted unless the applicants obtain the written approval of public health – Seattle & King County indicating that the applicants for the permit have complied with the health requirements of the department for like or similar facilities. The approval shall indicate the type and adequacy of water supply to be provided, the type and adequacy of toilet, waste collection and washing facilities to be provided, and if there is to be food served on the premises the type and adequacy of food preparation and food service facilities to be provided.

C. No permit shall be granted hereunder unless the applicant has shown that the King County fire marshal has approved fire protection devices and equipment available at such assembly. Fire prevention standards shall be as set out in K.C.C. chapter 17.04.

D. No permit shall be issued hereunder unless the applicant has on deposit with the director of finance and business operations a cash bond in the amount as set out below to save and protect the streets, pavements, bridges, road signs and other property in the county from any and all damage that may be caused by vehicles, employees, or participants in such outdoor musical assembly and to be used, if necessary, to restore the ground where such assembly is held to a sanitary condition and pay all charges and losses of the county for damages to the streets, pavements, bridges and other property. Further, any extraordinary law enforcement costs incurred by the county which are the result of the activity shall be met by the cash bond. The amount of such a bond shall be determined as follows:

For gatherings of 0 to 10,000 persons, a $5,000 cash bond;

For gatherings of 10,000 to 20,000 persons, a cash bond of $7,500;

For gatherings of 20,000 to 30,000 persons, a cash bond of $10,000;

And a cash bond shall be raised in increments of $2,500 for each additional 10,000 persons expected.

The deposit or its balance to be returned when the director certifies to the King County comptroller that no damage has been done or that the cost of making the above mentioned repairs was less than the cash bond amount and that the balance thereof should be returned. Further, the sponsors shall be required to furnish evidence of a liability insurance policy providing for a minimum of one hundred thousand dollars bodily injury coverage per person; three hundred thousand dollars bodily injury coverage per occurrence and one hundred thousand dollars property damage covering, naming King County as an additional insured.

E. No permit shall be granted hereunder unless the applicant obtained the written approval of the sheriff's office indicating that the following conditions have been complied with by the applicant:

1. That adequate traffic control and crowd protection policing have been contracted for or otherwise provided by the applicant;

2. That traffic control and crowd control personnel shall be licensed private patrol persons or named persons meeting the department's requirements for becoming private patrol persons;

3. That there shall be provided one traffic control person for each four hundred persons expected or reasonably to be expected to be in attendance at any time during the event; and

4. Further that there shall be provided one crowd control person for each four hundred persons expected or reasonably expected to be in attendance at any time during the event; provided that if at any time during the event the size of the crowd exceeds by twenty percent the number of persons represented by the sponsors to be expected to be in attendance the sheriff's office shall have the discretion to require the sponsor to limit further admissions.

Any person with more than a ten percent proprietary interest in the event shall be required to be in attendance at the activity and shall be responsible for insuring that no person shall be allowed to remain on the premises if the person is violating state or county laws. Any such person having a duty to remove law violators who willfully fails to do so shall be deemed to be an aider or abettor of such violation.

F. Application for a permit hereunder shall be accompanied by a scale drawing showing adequate parking facilities have been made available within or adjacent to the location for which the permit is requested. Such parking facilities shall provide parking space for one vehicle for every four persons expected or reasonably to be expected. Adequate ingress and egress shall be provided to or from such parking area to facilitate the movement of any vehicle at any time to or from the parking area. If any nonadjacent parking facilities are approved, shuttle buses shall be used to transport the public to the event on a no-charge basis. (Ord. 18728 § 60, 2018: Ord. 1888 Art. V § 51, 1974: Ord. 187 § 5, 1969).

6.52.060 Hours of operation. No outdoor musical assembly shall be conducted in the unincorporated areas of King County during the hours of 12:01 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.; provided, that no license shall be issued for more than one forty-eight hour period ending at midnight. The participants shall be required to have cleared the licensed area and its immediate environs no later than one a.m. of each day of the licensed event. (Ord. 10451 § 3, 1992: Ord. 187 § 6, 1969).

6.52.070 Renewal of license, registration or permit ‑ Late penalty. A late penalty shall be charged on all applications for renewal of a license, registration or permit received later than ten working days after the expiration date of such license, registration or permit as set forth in the respective resolution or ordinance establishing the expiration date of such license, registration or permit. The amount of such penalty is fixed as follows:

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty cents or more, but less than fifty dollars ‑ twenty percent of the required fee.

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty dollars or more, but less than one thousand dollars ‑ ten percent of the required fee.

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of one thousand dollars or more ‑ five percent of the required fee. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 3, 1974).

6.52.080 Violation ‑ Misdemeanor. Any person who violates or fails to comply with any provision of this chapter, who, having obtained a permit hereunder, willfully fails to continue to comply with the terms and conditions hereunder, or who counsels, aids or abets such a violation or failure to comply is guilty of a misdemeanor. (Ord. 187 § 7, 1969).

6.52.090 Failure to comply. Compliance with the terms and conditions of this chapter constitutes the minimum health, sanitation and safety provisions and failure to comply with the terms and conditions constitutes a public nuisance and the sponsors of the event shall be subject to all criminal and civil remedies as such. (Ord. 187 § 8, 1969).

6.52.100 Civil penalty. In addition to or as an alternative to any other penalty provided herein or by law any person who violates any provision of any business license ordinance shall be subject to a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars per violation to be directly assessed by the director. The director, in a reasonable manner, may vary the amount of the penalty assessed to consider the appropriateness of the penalty to the size of the business of the violator; the gravity of the violation; the number of past and present violations committed and the good faith of the violator in attempting to achieve compliance after notification of the violation. All civil penalties assessed will be enforced and collected in accordance with the procedure specified under this title. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 1, 1974).

6.52.110 Additional enforcement. Notwithstanding the existence or use of any other remedy, the director may seek legal or equitable relief to enjoin any acts or practices which constitute or will constitute a violation of any business license ordinance or other regulations herein adopted. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 2, 1974).

6.56 PAWNBROKERS*

Sections:

6.56.010 License required.

6.56.020 Pawnbroker and pawnshop defined.

6.56.030 License fee.

6.56.040 Application for license.

6.56.050 Personal property tax return.

6.56.060 Limitations on licensing.

6.56.070 Renewal of license, registration or permit ‑ Late penalty.

6.56.080 Records required.

6.56.090 Compliance required.

6.56.100 Transcript to be furnished.

6.56.110 Records and articles to be available for inspection.

6.56.120 Seller or consignee to give true name and address.

6.56.130 Authorized rate of interest ‑ Penalty for violation.

6.56.140 Prima facie evidence of violation.

6.56.150 Period of redemption.

6.56.160 Certain transactions prohibited.

6.56.170 Pawnshop to be closed during certain hours.

6.56.180 Violation ‑ Misdemeanor.

6.56.190 Civil penalty.

6.56.200 Additional enforcement.

*For statutory provisions regarding business regulations of pawnbrokers, see chapter 19.60 RCW.

6.56.010 License required. It is unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to engage in the business of pawnbroker, or to conduct a pawnshop without first obtaining a "pawnbroker's license" pursuant to the provisions of this chapter. (Res. 36053 § 1, 1968).

6.56.020 Pawnbroker and pawnshop defined.

A. The term "pawnbroker" as used in this chapter, means and includes every person who takes or receives by way of pledge, pawn, or exchange goods, wares, or merchandise or any kind of personal property whatever, for the repayment of security of any money loaned thereon, or to loan money on deposit of personal property, or who makes a public display of any sign indicating that the pawnbroker has money to loan on personal property on deposit or pledge.

B. The term "pawnshop" means and includes every place at which the business of pawnbroker is being carried on. (Ord. 18728 § 61, 2018: Res. 36053 § 2, 1968).

6.56.030 License fee. The fee for such license shall be five hundred dollars per year, payable on the thirty-first of December preceding the year for which the license is issued. Fees becoming due for less than one year shall be prorated on a quarterly basis. (Ord. 10170 § 13, 1991: Res. 36053 § 3, 1968).

6.56.040 Application for license. All applications for issuance or renewal of a pawnbroker's license shall be made to and be filed with the director on forms furnished for such purpose. This application shall state the true name of the applicant, who shall not be less than eighteen years of age, the names of all persons having a financial, proprietary, or other interest in such pawnshop, together with such other information as the license division deems appropriate. The application shall then be referred to the Department of Public Safety for investigation, report and recommendation. If, from the reports and other information available, the director deems the applicant to be a fit and proper person, the director shall issue or renew the license applied for. (Ord. 1888 Art. V § 52, 1974; Ord. 1005 § 2, 1971: Res. 36053 § 4, 1968).

6.56.050 Personal property tax return. No renewal license shall be issued to any pawnbroker until the applicant returns to King County assessor of the property in the applicant's possession or ownership and the value thereof for tax assessment purposes and has paid the tax due. (Ord. 18728 § 62, 2018: Res. 36053 § 5, 1968).

6.56.060 Limitation on licensing. No pawnbroker's license shall be issued which would increase the number of holders of such licenses to more than one for every fifteen thousand of population, according to the last preceding federal census, provided that this population limitation shall not operate to prohibit the licensing of any pawnbroker duly licensed prior to the enactment of this chapter, if such pawnbroker is otherwise duly qualified. (Res. 36053 § 6, 1968).

6.56.070 Renewal of license, registration or permit ‑ Late penalty. A late penalty shall be charged on all applications for renewal of a license, registration or permit received later than ten working days after the expiration date of such license, registration or permit as set forth in the respective resolution or ordinance establishing the expiration date of such license, registration or permit. The amount of such penalty is fixed as follows:

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty cents or more, but less than fifty dollars ‑ twenty percent of the required fee.

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty dollars or more, but less than one thousand dollars ‑ ten percent of the required fee.

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of one thousand dollars or more ‑ five percent of the required fee. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 3, 1974).

6.56.080 Records required. Every pawnbroker shall maintain at the pawnbroker's place of business a book in which the pawnbroker shall at the time of such loan, purchase or sale, enter, in the English language, written in ink, the following information:

A. The date of the transaction;

B. The name of the person conducting the transaction and making the entries required herein;

C. The printed name, signature, age, street and house number, the general description of the dress, complexion, color of hair and facial appearance of the person with whom the transaction is had, including the identification which the customer shall present to verify the customer's identity, and the account or other number of such identification;

D. The name and street and house number of the owner of the property bought or received in pledge;

E. The street and house number of the place from which the property bought or received in pledge was last removed;

F. A description of the property bought or received in pledge, which shall include the name of the maker of such property or manufacturer thereof and the serial number, if the article has such marks on it, or any other inscriptive or identifying marks; provided, that when the article received is furniture or the contents of any house or room, actually inspected on the premises where the sale is made, a general description of the property shall be sufficient;

G. The price paid or the amount loaned; and

H. The number of any pawn tickets issued therefor. (Ord. 18728 § 63, 2018: Res. 36053 § 7, 1968).

6.56.090 Compliance required. It is unlawful for any pawnbroker or any clerk, agent, or employee of such pawnbroker to fail, neglect or refuse to make any material entry in this record, as required by this chapter, or to make any false entry therein, or to obliterate, destroy or remove from the pawnbroker's place of business such record within five years from date of transaction. (Ord. 18728 § 64, 2018: Res. 36053 § 8, 1968).

6.56.100 Transcript to be furnished.

A. It is the duty of every pawnbroker to deliver to the sheriff's office at the close of every business week a full, true and correct transcript of the record of all transactions occurring during the preceding week.

B. It is also the duty of any pawnbroker having good cause to believe any property in the pawnbroker's possession has been previously lost or stolen, to report such fact to the sheriff immediately, together with the name of the owner, if known, and the date and name of the person from whom the same was received by such pawnbroker. (Ord. 18728 § 65, 2018: Ord. 1888 Art. V § 75, 1974; Res. 36053 § 9, 1968).

6.56.110 Records and articles to be available for inspection. All books and other records of any pawnbroker relating to purchase, pledge, exchange, order or receipt of any goods, wares, merchandise, or other articles or things of value, shall at all times be open for inspection by the King County Department of Public Safety; and all articles or things received, purchased or left in pledge with the pawnbroker shall at all times be open to a like inspection. (Ord. 1888 Art. V § 76, 1974; Res. 36053 § 10, 1968).

6.56.120 Seller or consignee to give true name and address. Anyone who pledges, sells, or consigns any property to or with a pawnbroker shall sign the records required to be kept by such pawnbroker with the seller or consignee's true name and shall include the seller or consignee's correct residence address. (Ord. 18728 § 66, 2018: Res. 36053 § 11, 1968).

6.56.130 Authorized rate of interest ‑ Penalty for violation. All pawnbrokers are authorized to charge and receive interest at the rate of three percent per month, for any loan on the security of personal property actually received in pledge, and every person who asks or receives a higher rate of interest or discount on any such loan, or on any actual or pretended sale, shall, on redemption of such personal property, be deemed guilty of a violation of this chapter. (Res. 36053 § 12, 1968).

6.56.140 Prima facie evidence of violation. The fact of loaning money upon or purchasing goods from any of the classes enumerated in K.C.C. 6.56.130 shall be prima facie evidence of an intent on the part of such pawnbroker, the pawnbroker's agent or employee, to violate this chapter. (Ord. 18728 § 67, 2018: Res. 36053 § 13, 1968).

6.56.150 Period of redemption. No pawnbroker shall sell any property held by the pawnbroker as security for a loan until ninety days after the period for redemption shall have expired. (Ord. 18728 § 68, 2018: Res. 36053 § 14, 1968).

6.56.160 Certain transactions prohibited.

A. It is unlawful for any pawnbroker, the pawnbroker's clerk or employee to receive in pledge, or purchase, any article or thing known to the pawnbroker or the pawnbroker's clerk or employee to be stolen, any article or thing from any person who is under eighteen years of age; intoxicated; addicted to the use of drugs; or from any person who is known to be a thief, or a receiver of stolen property, or from any person who the pawnbroker or the pawnbroker's clerk or employee has reason to suspect or believe to be such.

B. It is unlawful for any pawnbroker, the pawnbroker's clerk or employee, to refuse to return property which has been identified as stolen or pawned without authorization, to any person the pawnbroker, the pawnbroker's clerk or employee knows to be the rightful owner, or to charge a fee for the return of such property to the rightful owner.

1. "Identified as stolen or pawned without authorization" shall mean any property which has been reported by the rightful owner to legitimate authority as missing or stolen.

2. "The rightful owner," unless otherwise proven, shall be considered to be the person having possession of the property prior to the theft or removal without authorization. (Ord. 18728 § 69, 2018: Ord. 6383 § 1, 1983: Ord. 521 § 1, 1970: Res. 36053 § 15, 1968).

6.56.170 Pawnshop to be closed during certain hours. It is unlawful for any pawnbroker to conduct or carry on the business of the pawnbroker, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, or to open or keep open, the pawnshop for the transaction of any business whatsoever therein, between the hours of eight p.m. and seven a.m., except that from December 1 to December 24 of each year, when pawnbrokers may remain open until ten p.m. (Ord. 18728 § 70, 2018: Res. 36053 § 16, 1968).

6.56.180 Violation ‑ Misdemeanor. Any violation of the provisions of this chapter constitutes a misdemeanor. (Res. 36053 § 17, 1968).

6.56.190 Civil penalty. In addition to or as an alternative to any other penalty provided herein or by law any person who violates any provision of any business license ordinance shall be subject to a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars per violation to be directly assessed by the director. The director, in a reasonable manner, may vary the amount of the penalty assessed to consider the appropriateness of the penalty to the size of the business of the violator; the gravity of the violation; the number of past and present violations committed and the good faith of the violator in attempting to achieve compliance after notification of the violation. All civil penalties assessed will be enforced and collected in accordance with the procedure specified under this title. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 1, 1973).

6.56.200 Additional enforcement. Notwithstanding the existence or use of any other remedy, the director may seek legal or equitable relief to enjoin any acts or practices which constitute or will constitute a violation of any business license ordinance or other regulations herein adopted. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 2, 1973).

6.60 SECONDHAND DEALERS*

Sections:

6.60.010 License required.

6.60.020 Secondhand dealer and secondhand goods defined.

6.60.030 License fee.

6.60.040 Application for a license.

6.60.050 Renewal of license, registration or permit ‑ late penalty.

6.60.060 Personal property tax return.

6.60.070 More than one shop - change of location.

6.60.080 Records required.

6.60.090 Compliance required.

6.60.100 Transcript to be furnished.

6.60.110 Records and articles to be available for inspection.

6.60.120 Seller to give true name and address.

6.60.130 No sale within ten days.

6.60.140 Certain transactions prohibited.

6.60.150 Violation a misdemeanor.

6.60.160 Civil penalty.

6.60.170 Additional enforcement.

*For statutory provisions regulating secondhand dealers, see chapter 19.60 RCW.

6.60.010 License required. It is unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to engage in the business of buying, selling, or trading in secondhand goods in King County without first obtaining a "secondhand dealer's license" pursuant to the provisions of this chapter. (Res. 36054 § 1, 1968).

6.60.020 Secondhand dealer and secondhand goods defined.

A. The term "secondhand dealer" as used in this chapter, means and includes every person who as a business engages in the purchase, sale, trade, barter, auction, sale on consignment, or otherwise exchanges secondhand goods, or who keeps a store, shop, room or other place where secondhand goods of any kind or description are bought, sold, traded, bartered, pledged, pawned, auctioned, sold on consignment, or otherwise exchanged, including dealers in used or remanufactured automobile tires or parts; provided, however, that this term shall not apply to those persons engaged in the business of selling used or secondhand motor vehicles or boats.

B. The term "secondhand goods" when used in this chapter means and includes any and all used, remanufactured, or secondhand goods purchased or kept for sale by a dealer in secondhand goods; provided however, such term shall not be construed to include junk as defined in Section 6.36.020, or used or secondhand motor vehicles or boats. (Ord. 623 § 1, 1970: Res. 36054 § 2, 1968).

6.60.030 License fee. The fee for such license shall be forty dollars per year, payable on the thirty‑first of December preceding the year for which the license is issued. Fees becoming due for less than one year shall be prorated on a quarterly basis. (Ord. 10170 § 14, 1991: Ord. 5799 § 7, 1981: Res. 36054 § 3, 1968).

6.60.040 Application for a license. All applications for issuance or renewal of secondhand dealer's license shall be made to and be filed with the director on forms furnished for such purpose. This application shall state the true name of the applicant, who shall not be less than eighteen years of age, the names of all persons having a financial, proprietary, or other interest in such secondhand dealer's shop, together with such other information as the director deems appropriate. The application shall then be referred to the King County Department of Public Safety for investigation, report, and recommendation. If, from the reports and other information available, the license division deems the applicant to be a fit and proper person, the director shall issue or renew the license applied for. (Ord. 1888 Art. V § 77, 1974; Ord. 1005 § 3, 1971: Res. 36054 § 4, 1968).

6.60.050 Renewal of license, registration of permit - late penalty. A late penalty shall be charged on all applications for renewal of a license, registration or permit received later than ten working days after the expiration date of such license, registration or permit as set forth in the respective resolution or ordinance establishing the expiration date of such license, registration or permit. The amount of such penalty is fixed as follows:

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty cents or more, but less than fifty dollars ‑ twenty percent of the required fee.

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty dollars or more, but less than one thousand dollars ‑ ten percent of the required fee.

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of one thousand dollars or more ‑ five percent of the required fee. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 3, 1974).

6.60.060 Personal property tax return. No renewal license shall be issued to any secondhand dealer until the applicant returns to the King County assessor of the property in the applicant's possession or ownership and the value thereof for tax assessment purposes and has paid the tax due. (Ord. 18728 § 71, 2018: Res. 36054 § 5, 1968).

6.60.070 More than one shop - change of location. Any person having more than one place of business where secondhand goods are bought, sold, traded, bartered, or exchanged, shall be required to procure a separate license for each and every such place of business. A secondhand dealer's license shall not be transferable from one person to another, but the licensee may have the license transferred to a new location by the director, and the change of address shall be noted on the license, together with the date of which the change was made. (Ord. 18728 § 72, 2018: Ord. 1888 Art. V § 53, 1974; Res. 36054 § 6, 1968).

6.60.080 Records required. Every secondhand dealer shall maintain at the secondhand dealer's place of business a book in which the secondhand dealer shall at the time of purchase of any secondhand goods enter, in the English language, written in ink, the following information:

A. The date of the transaction;

B. The name of the person conducting the transaction and making the entries required herein;

C. The printed name, signature, age and address of the person with whom the transaction is had;

D. The address of the place from which the property was last removed;

E. An accurate description of the property bought, which shall include the name of the maker of such property or manufacturer thereof and the serial number, if the article has such marks on it, or any other inscriptive or identifying marks, except that when the article received is furniture or the contents of any house or room, actually inspected on the premises where the sale is made, the general description of the property shall be sufficient; and

F. An itemized statement of the price or amount paid for the property purchased. (Ord. 18728 § 73, 2018: Res. 36054 § 7, 1968).

6.60.090 Compliance required. It is unlawful for any secondhand dealer, or any clerk, agent, or employee of such secondhand dealer to fail, neglect, or refuse to make any material entry in this record, as required by this chapter, or to make any false entry therein, or to obliterate, destroy, or remove from the secondhand dealer's place of business such record within five years from the date of the transaction. (Ord. 18728 § 74, 2018: Res. 36054 § 8, 1968).

6.60.100 Transcript to be furnished.

A. It is the duty of every secondhand dealer to deliver to the sheriff's office at the close of every business week a full, true and correct transcript of the record of all transactions occurring during the preceding week. Secondhand goods taken on consignment or trade-in will be recorded in the same manner as goods purchased outright.

B. It is also the duty of any secondhand dealer having good cause to believe any property in the secondhand dealer's possession has been previously lost or stolen, to report such act to the sheriff immediately, together with the name of the owner, if known, and the date and name of the person from whom the same was received by such secondhand dealer. (Ord. 18728 § 75, 2018: Ord. 1888 Art. V § 55, 1974; Res. 36054 § 9, 1968).

6.60.110 Records and articles to be available for inspection. All books and other records of any secondhand dealer relating to purchase or receipt of any goods, wares, merchandise, or other things of value, shall at all times be open for inspection by the King County Department of Public Safety; and all articles or things received or purchased shall at all times be open to a like inspection. (Ord. 1888 Art. V § 55, 1974; Res. 36054 § 10, 1968).

6.60.120 Seller to give true name and address. Anyone who sells or otherwise leaves any property with a secondhand dealer shall sign the records required to be kept by such dealer with the seller's or leaver's true name and shall include the seller's or leaver's correct residence address. (Ord. 18728 § 76, 2018: Res. 36054 § 11, 1968).

6.60.130 No sale within ten days. No dealer in secondhand goods shall sell or dispose of any article received or purchased by the secondhand dealer or permit the same to be removed from the secondhand dealer's place of business within ten days after the receipt of the goods has been reported to the sheriff as provided herein, except when the goods have been inspected by regular members of the appropriate sheriff personnel, and they have authorized the secondhand dealer to dispose of such goods within a lesser period of time, except that consigned property sold at auction need only be held for three days prior to sale. (Ord. 18728 § 77, 2018: Ord. 623 § 2, 1970: Res. 36054 § 12, 1968).

6.60.140 Certain transactions prohibited.

A. It is unlawful for any secondhand dealer, the secondhand dealer's clerk or employee, to purchase or receive any article or thing known by the secondhand dealer or the secondhand dealer's clerk or employee to be stolen, any article or thing from a person who is under eighteen years of age, intoxicated, addicted to the use of drugs, or from any person who is known to be a thief, or a receiver of stolen property, or from any person who the secondhand dealer or the secondhand dealer's clerk or employee has reason to suspect or believe to be such.

B. It is unlawful for any secondhand dealer, the secondhand dealer's clerk or employee to refuse to return property which has been identified as stolen or sold without authorization, to any person the secondhand dealer, the secondhand dealer's clerk or employee, knows to be the rightful owner, or to charge a fee for the return of such property to the rightful owner.

1. "Identified as stolen or sold without authorization" shall mean any property which has been reported by the rightful owner to legitimate authority as missing or stolen.

2. "The rightful owner," unless otherwise proven, shall be considered to be the person having possession of the property prior to the theft or removal without authorization. (Ord. 18728 § 78, 2018: Ord. 6383 § 2, 1983: Ord. 623 § 3, 1970: Res. 36054 § 13, 1968).

6.60.150 Violation a misdemeanor. Any violation of the provisions of this chapter shall constitute a misdemeanor. (Res. 36054 § 14, 1968).

6.60.160 Civil penalty. In addition to or as an alternative to any other penalty provided herein or by law any person who violates any provision of any business license ordinance shall be subject to a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars per violation to be directly assessed by the director. The director, in a reasonable manner, may vary the amount of the penalty assessed to consider the appropriateness of the penalty to the size of the business of the violator, the gravity of the violation, the number of past and present violations committed and the good faith of the violator in attempting to achieve compliance after notification of the violation. All civil penalties assessed will be enforced and collected in accordance with the procedure specified under this title. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 1, 1974).

6.60.170 Additional enforcement. Notwithstanding the existence or use of any other remedy, the director may seek legal or equitable relief to enjoin any acts or practices which constitute or will constitute a violation of any business license ordinance or other regulations herein adopted. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 2, 1974).

6.64 FOR-HIRE TRANSPORTATION - TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANIES, VEHICLES, AND DRIVERS

(Formerly FOR-HIRE TRANSPORTATION - TAXICABS, FOR-HIRE VEHICLES, FOR-HIRE DRIVERS AND TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANIES)

Sections:

6.64.005 Application of chapter - resolution of conflicts with K.C.C. chapter 6.65.

6.64.010 Definitions.

6.64.015 Interlocal agreements.

6.64.021 Rules adoption.

6.64.026 Fees – procedure for setting – notice – effective date – posting – approval of new fees by ordinance.

6.64.111 Fee surcharge for taxicab licensees, for-hire vehicle licensees and transportation network companies – use of fee surcharge – rules adoption.

6.64.201 Transportation network company – license required – application dispatch system unlawful except if licensed transportation network company or used exclusively for certain taxicabs or for-hire vehicles.

6.64.211 Transportation network company – license requirements.

6.64.221 Transportation network company - annual application – notice of changes – expiration – lease, transfer or assignment prohibited.

6.64.231 Transportation network company license not a right – denial of application or renewal.

6.64.241 Transportation network company - revocation or suspension.

6.64.251 Transportation network company – other requirements.

6.64.261 Transportation network company – drivers active on dispatch system must have for-hire driver's license – required vehicles for drivers active on dispatch system.

6.64.271 Transportation network company vehicle endorsement – requirements of persons, vehicles.

6.64.281 Transportation network company vehicle endorsement – annual filing – certificate and decal – expiration – lease, transfer or assignment prohibited.

6.64.291 Transportation network company vehicle endorsement – denial of application.

6.64.295 Transportation network company vehicle endorsement – suspension – ceasing operation and surrender of decal.

6.64.300 Transportation network company endorsed vehicle - vehicle endorsement required.

6.64.360 Certificate of safety – maintenance and service records retention – maintenance of vehicles – certification required of vehicles previously determined to be total wrecks or total losses – factory specifications required for rebuilt or significantly altered vehicles – ensurance of safety compliance and maintenance by vehicle owner – placement of vehicles out of service if determined to be immediate safety hazards.

6.64.500 For-hire driver's license required.

6.64.510 For-hire driver's license - initial and annual application.

6.64.520 For-hire driver's license – investigation.

6.64.530 For-hire driver's license – qualifications.

6.64.540 For-hire's driver's license – temporary permit.

6.64.550 For-hire driver's license – application null and void if applicant fails or neglects to complete the application process or obtain a license.

6.64.560 For-hire driver – certification of being physically and mentally fit – medical examination upon appearance of incapacitation rendering licensee unfit.

6.64.570 For-hire driver – required training.

6.64.580 For-hire driver – examination.

6.64.590 For-hire driver – driving abstract.

6.64.595 For-hire license – pick up directly from director – "for-hire permit" display for applicant affiliated with transportation network company - form of license – determined by director – placement.

6.64.600 For-hire driver license – denial of application.

6.64.610 For-hire driver's license – suspension or revocation.

6.64.620 For-hire driver – additional requirements for license issuance.

6.64.630 For-hire driver – license expiration.

6.64.640 For-hire driver – operating standards.

6.64.650 Driver – vehicle safety standards.

6.64.660 Driver – conduct standards.

6.64.665 Transportation network company's driver – additional standards.

6.64.680 Driver-passenger relations standards.

6.64.690 Driver – soliciting and cruising standards.

6.64.740 Director – annual report.

6.64.760 Rates - requirements.

6.64.780 Reports by transportation network companies and for-hire drivers.

6.64.790 Licensees – protection of information that is confidential, proprietary or business secrets – procedures for disclosure and release of materials subject to disclosure.

6.64.800 Penalties.

6.64.830 Notice and order of denial, suspension, revocation of license or assessment of civil penalty.

6.64.900 Consumer complaint hotline.

6.64.910 Passenger complaint process.

CROSS REFERENCE:

Taxicab operating agreement at airport, see K.C.C. chapters 15.48 and 15.80.

6.64.005 Application of chapter - resolution of conflicts with K.C.C. chapter 6.65. This chapter applies to transportation network companies, transportation network company drivers, and transportation network company endorsed vehicles. K.C.C. chapter 6.65 applies to taxicab associations, for-hire vehicle companies, taxicabs, for-hire vehicles, and the drivers of those vehicles. References to taxicab associations, for-hire vehicle companies, taxicabs, for-hire vehicles, and the drivers of those for-hire vehicles remain in this chapter because RCW 46.72B.190 constrains the county from amending ordinances or regulations related to transportation network companies, transportation network company drivers, or transportation network company endorsed vehicles after January 1, 2022. In the event of a conflict between this chapter and K.C.C. chapter 6.65 related to taxicab associations, for-hire vehicle companies, taxicabs, for-hire vehicles, and the drivers of for-hire vehicles, K.C.C. chapter 6.65 controls. (Ord. 19699 § 1, 2023).

6.64.010 Definitions. The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.

A. "Active on a transportation network company dispatch system" or "active on the transportation network company dispatch system" includes, but is not limited to: when the driver is logged onto the transportation network company application dispatch system showing that the driver is available to pick up passengers; when a passenger is in the vehicle; when transportation network company dispatch records show the vehicle is dispatched; or when the driver has accepted a dispatch and is en route to provide transportation services to a passenger.

B. "Application dispatch system" means technology that allows consumers to directly request dispatch of for-hire drivers for trips via the Internet using mobile interfaces such as smartphone applications.

C. "Approved mechanic " means mechanic or technician who:

1. Has successfully passed the examinations of, and met the experience requirements prescribed by, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence;

2. Has been awarded a certificate in evidence of competence satisfactory to the director; and

3. Is not the owner, lessee or driver of a taxicab, for-hire vehicle or transportation network company endorsed vehicle.

D. "Director" means the director of the department of executive services or the director's designee.

E. "Engage in the business of operating a taxicab or vehicle for hire" means the pickup and transportation of any fare paying passenger from a point within the geographical confines of unincorporated King County, whether or not the vehicle is dispatched from a taxicab stand or office within any other municipal corporation, and whether or not the ultimate destination or route of travel is within the confines of unincorporated King County. A transportation network company is engaged in the business of operating a vehicle for hire if it provides application dispatch services via an application dispatch system to any transportation network company driver at any time for the transport of any passenger for a fare from a point within unincorporated King County. However, nothing in this chapter shall be construed to apply to taxicabs or for-hire vehicles licensed by any other municipal corporation and transporting passengers from a point within the licensing municipality to a destination outside the municipality, whether or not the ultimate destination or route traveled is within unincorporated King County.

F. "Fare" means anything of economic value that is provided, promised or donated primarily in exchange for services rendered.

G. "For-hire driver" means any person in control of, operating or driving a taxicab, for-hire vehicle or transportation network company endorsed vehicle.

H. "For-hire vehicle" means a motor vehicle used for the transportation of passengers for hire and not operated exclusively over a fixed and definite route, except:

1. Taxicabs;

2. Transportation network company endorsed vehicles;

3. Passenger vehicles carrying passengers on a noncommercial enterprise basis;

4. Vehicles or operators expressly exempt by state law from county regulation.

I. "For-hire vehicle company" has the same meaning as "for-hire vehicle company" in K.C.C. 6.65.040.

J. "Lessee" has the same meaning as "lessee" in K.C.C. 6.65.040.

K. "Licensee" means all persons, including for-hire drivers, vehicle owners, taxicab associations and transportation network of companies required to be licensed under this chapter.

L. "Medallion" has the same meaning as "medallion" in K.C.C. 6.65.040.

M. "Medallion system" has the same meaning as "medallion system" in K.C.C. 6.65.040.

N. "Motor vehicle" means every motorized vehicle by or upon which any person may be transported or carried upon a public street, highway or alley, though vehicles used exclusively upon stationary rail tracks or propelled by use of overhead electric wires shall not come under this chapter.

O. "Person" means any individual, partnership, association, corporation, firm, institution or other entity, whether or not operated for profit. "Person" does not include:

1. A governmental unit of or within the United States;

2. An entity operating exclusively under contract with a government entity; or

3. That portion of an entity that is operating exclusively under contract with a government entity.

P. "Personal vehicle" means a motor vehicle that is not a taxicab or for-hire vehicle.

Q. "Special rate" means discounted rates for senior citizens and disabled persons.

R. "Taxicab" has the same meaning as "taxicab" in K.C.C. 6.65.040.

S. "Taxicab association" has the same meaning as "taxicab association" in K.C.C. 6.65.040.

T. "Taxicab license" has the same meaning as "taxicab license" in K.C.C. 6.65.040.

U. "Taximeter" has the same meaning as "taximeter" in K.C.C. 6.65.040.

V. "Trade dress" means the unique visual element associated with a transportation network company that is attached to a transportation network company endorsed vehicle.

W. "Transportation network company" means a person licensed under this chapter that provides application dispatch services via an application dispatch system to connect drivers with passengers for the transportation of passengers for fares.

X. "Transportation network company driver" means a licensed for-hire driver affiliated with a licensed transportation network company in order to provide transportation to passengers by an application dispatch system.

Y. "Transportation network company endorsed vehicle" means a vehicle with a transportation network company vehicle endorsement.

Z. "Transportation network company representative" means a person who a transportation network company has authorized to:

1. File applications and other documents on behalf of the company;

2. Receive and accept all correspondence and notices from the county pertaining to the company or its drivers.

AA. "Transportation network company vehicle endorsement" means an endorsement on a for-hire driver's license that allows the for-hire driver to use the driver's personal vehicle to affiliate with a transportation network company to provide transportation to passengers by an application dispatch system.

BB. “Wheelchair accessible taxicab” or “wheelchair accessible for-hire vehicle” or “wheelchair accessible transportation network company endorsed vehicle” means a taxicab, for-hire vehicle or transportation network company endorsed vehicle designed or modified to transport passengers in wheelchairs or other mobility devices and conforming to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act and inspected and approved by the director. (Ord. 19699 § 3, 2023: Ord. 18338 § 1, 2016: Ord. 17892 § 2, 2014: Ord. 17665 § 1, 2013: Ord. 15263 § 1, 2005: Ord. 14199 § 121, 2001: Ord. 10498 § 1, 1992).

6.64.015 Interlocal agreements. The executive may execute an interlocal agreement with either the city of Seattle or the Port of Seattle, or both, for the purposes of coordinating and consolidating for-hire driver administration and enforcement, reducing duplication of licensing functions and a sharing of license fees as agreed to by the city and county. (Ord. 19699 § 4, 2023: Ord. 17892 § 3, 2014: Ord. 17665 § 2, 2013: Ord. 10498 § 5, 1992).

6.64.021 Rules adoption. The director is authorized to adopt rules under the procedures specified in K.C.C. chapter 2.98 for the purpose of implementing this chapter. (Ord. 17892 § 4, 2014).

6.64.026 Fees – procedure for setting – notice – effective date – posting – approval of new fees by ordinance.*

A. The director shall set fees in K.C.C. 4A.750.100, in accordance with this section.

B. The director shall make available to the public a description of the director's procedures for setting fees. The description shall include information on how to inquire about the director's proposed and adopted fees and public comment opportunities.

C.1. The director shall give at least twenty days' notice of the director's intention to set fees by providing notice:

a. in writing or by electronic format, to:

(1) the clerk of the council;

(2) all council members;

(3) all persons who have made a timely request for advance notice of fee setting; and

(4) all existing fee payers; and

b. by publishing in the official county newspaper a summary of the notice of the proposed action, including the information in subsection C.2. a. through e. of this section.

2. The notice made in subsection C.1. of this section shall:

a. include a reference to this section;

b. include a reference to the fee type to which the fee will be applied;

c. include a date and place by which comments must be submitted;

d. specify whether the proposal is a change or an elimination of a fee;

e. if the proposal is to change a fee, indicate both the amount of the existing fee and the proposed fee; and

f. state the reason for and methodology used to determine the proposed new fee.

3. The director shall consider all comments received by the prescribed date for comment before the fee is set.

D. A fee is set when signed by the director. A fee takes effect ten days after it is set.

E. Once a fee is set, the director shall post the amount of the fee in both written and electronic form for inspection, review and copying by the public, including providing a copy, in writing or by electronic format, of the fee to the clerk of the county council and each member of the county council and posting the fee on the Internet.

F. A new fee may not be established unless the fee is approved by the council by ordinance. (Ord. 17892 § 5, 2014).

*Reviser's note: The dollar amounts of the fees are set under K.C.C. 4A.750.100. In accordance with K.C.C. 4A.750.100.B., the director of the department of executive services has adjusted the dollar amounts for the fees listed in K.C.C. 4A.75.100.A. The current fee amounts may be obtained through the records and licensing services division (RALS) of the department of executive services, and may be found at the web site https://www.kingcounty.gov/depts/records-licensing/licensing/taxi-for-hire-transportation-networks/notices-regulations.aspx

6.64.111 Fee surcharge for taxicab licensees, for-hire vehicle licensees and transportation network companies – use of fee surcharge – adoption of rules.

A. Each taxicab licensee, for-hire vehicle licensee or transportation network company shall pay a fee surcharge of the amount in K.C.C. 4A.750.100.C. and D. for all rides originating in:

1. Unincorporated King County; or

2. Any municipality that contracts with the county for the county to license taxicabs, for-hire vehicles or transportation network companies that operate in the municipality.

B. The fee surcharge in subsection A. of this section shall be used to offset the operational costs incurred by owners and operators of wheelchair accessible taxi, wheelchair accessible for-hire vehicle or wheelchair accessible transportation network company endorsed vehicle services including, but not limited to, the costs associated with purchasing and retrofitting an accessible vehicle, fuel and maintenance costs and the time involved in providing wheelchair accessible trips.

C. The director shall adopt rules to establish the conditions and procedure for distributing funds to wheelchair accessible taxicab, wheelchair accessible for-hire vehicle or wheelchair accessible transportation network company endorsed vehicle owners and drivers, including the maximum amount of reimbursement. (Ord. 17892 § 10, 2014).

6.64.201 Transportation network company – license required – application dispatch system unlawful except if licensed transportation network company or used exclusively for certain taxicabs or for-hire vehicles.

A. It is unlawful for a person to operate as a transportation network company without first having obtained a transportation network company license under this chapter.

B. It is unlawful for a person to operate an application dispatch system unless:

1. The person is a licensed transportation network company; or

2. The person uses the application dispatch system exclusively for taxicabs or for-hire vehicles consistent with K.C.C. 6.64.760. (Ord. 17892 § 19, 2014).

6.64.211 Transportation network company – license requirements. The director shall not issue a transportation network company license unless the person meets the following requirements:

A. Requires that drivers who affiliate with the company:

1. Possess a for-hire driver's license; and

2. When active on the company's dispatch system, operate a vehicle that is a taxicab, for-hire vehicle or transportation network company endorsed vehicle; and

B. Files with the director on behalf of the registered owners of endorsed vehicles, or ensures that the registered owners have filed, an insurance policy, and any related driver contracts if applicable, demonstrating that each endorsed vehicle has insurance that complies with state insurance requirements effective at that time. The transportation network company shall provide evidence that each vehicle affiliated with a transportation network company has insurance in an amount no less than required by RCW 46.72.050 and minimum underinsured motorist coverage of one hundred thousand dollars per person and three hundred thousand dollars per accident or in an amount no less than required by RCW 46.72B.180, at any time while active on the transportation network company dispatch system. The insurance policy shall:

1. Be issued by an admitted carrier in the state of Washington with an A.M. Best Rating of not less than B VII, or show evidence that an exemption has been met allowing for the use of a surplus line insurer with an A.M. Best Rating of not less than B+ VII. However, the director may temporarily suspend any or all of these requirements if no other viable insurance options are available to the industry;

2. Name King County, its officers, officials, agents and employees as an additional insured on the insurance policy;

3. Provide that the insurer will notify the director in writing of any cancellation or nonrenewal at least thirty days before cancellation or nonrenewal of the policy; and

4. Not include aggregate limits, or named driver requirements or exclusions. Other limitations or restrictions beyond standard insurance services office business auto policy form are subject to approval by the director. (Ord. 19699 § 5, 2023: Ord. 18338 § 2, 2016: Ord. 17892 § 20, 2014).

6.64.221 Transportation network company - annual application – notice of changes – expiration – lease, transfer or assignment prohibited.

A. A person desiring to operate as a transportation network company shall file annually with the director a signed transportation network company license application on a form provided by the director. The application shall include the following:

1. The applicant's: name, business street address and post office box address, business telephone number and business email address at which the transportation network company representative can generally be reached between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. on all nonholiday weekdays;

2. The form of business entity under which the applicant will operate;

a. if the applicant is an individual: the information in subsection A.1. of this section if not already provided and the date of birth of the owner; or

b. if the applicant is a corporation, partnership or other business entity: the names, home and business addresses, telephone numbers and of all officers, directors, general and managing partners, registered agents, the company representative and all other persons vested with authority to manage or direct the affairs of the entity or to bind the entity in dealings with third parties; the entity's legal name and state of incorporation; registration, if any, with the Secretary of State of the state of Washington; and state of Washington business license number;

3. The trade dress, if any, the applicant intends to use for each endorsed vehicle, with a photo of the trade dress;

4. Evidence of the insurance required by K.C.C. 6.64.211;

5. Documentation of the company's application dispatch rate structure as required by K.C.C. 6.64.760.C.; and

6. Other information as the director may reasonably require.

B. The applicant shall inform the director in writing within seven days if there is any change to the information provided under subsection A. of this section.

C. A transportation network company license is valid for not more than one year.

D. A transportation network company license shall not be leased, transferred or assigned. (Ord. 17892 § 21, 2014).

6.64.231 Transportation network company license not a right – denial of application or renewal.

A. The transportation network company's ability to satisfy stated criteria for a transportation network license does not create a right to a license.

B. The director shall deny any company license application if the director determines that:

1. The applicant provides access to its application dispatch system to drivers who do not meet the requirements in K.C.C. 6.64.211.A.;

2. The applicant fails to submit evidence of the insurance required by K.C.C. 6.64.211;

3. The application is incomplete or has a misstatement or omission of material fact; or

4. The rate structure is not transparent as required by K.C.C. 6.64.760.C.

C. The director may deny an annual application for license renewal if the applicant:

1. Has failed to pay all outstanding penalties assessed against the company;

2. Has failed within five years of the date of application to meet any of the requirements in K.C.C. 6.64.251. (Ord. 17892 § 22, 2014).

6.64.241 Transportation network company - revocation or suspension. The director may revoke or suspend a transportation network company license if during the license period the transportation network company fails to meet any of the requirements in K.C.C. 6.64.251. In determining whether to suspend or revoke the license, the director shall consider the gravity of the association's noncompliance and whether suspension is appropriate to allow the company time to correct the noncompliance. (Ord. 17892 § 23, 2014).

6.64.251 Transportation network company – other requirements. In addition to meeting the license application requirements in K.C.C. 6.64.211, a transportation network company shall:

A. Maintain a mailing address and email address where the company's representative will accept mail;

B. When required by the director, forward correspondence from the director to a driver within five business days after receiving the correspondence by first class mail or email and keep a record of the mailings;

C. Retain company records, including: copies of drivers' for-hire drivers licenses; copies of drivers' vehicle endorsements; copies of for-hire vehicle licenses or taxicab licenses; vehicle insurance policies; passenger complaints; and dispatch records. Records may be maintained electronically;

D. Collect, retain and report the information required under K.C.C. 6.64.780;

E. Permit the director to carry out inspections with reasonable notice of all records required to be kept under this chapter;

F. Provide secure storage for all items left in a company's driver's vehicle by a passenger and turned in by the driver;

G. Require that a passenger be able to view a picture of the driver and vehicle license plate number on the passenger's smart phone, tablet or other mobile device used to connect with the company's dispatch application before the trip is initiated;

H. Maintain a nondiscrimination policy that complies fully with all applicable federal, state and local laws that prohibit discrimination;

I. Allow any passenger to indicate the need for a wheelchair accessible vehicle and connect the passenger to an accessible vehicle service via an internet link, application or telephone number;

J. Notify the director within two working days of having knowledge of the following:

1. A conviction or bail forfeiture received by any of the company's drivers for any criminal offense or traffic violation that occurs during or arises out of the driver's operation of a vehicle while active on the company's dispatch system;

2. A conviction or bail forfeiture received by any of the company's drivers for any criminal offense reasonably related to the driver's honesty and integrity or ability to operate a vehicle in a safe manner;

3. A vehicle accident required by law to be reported to a state agency that involves any of the company's drivers; and

4. A restriction, suspension or revocation of a valid driver's license issued to any of the company's drivers;

K. Terminate a driver's access to the company's dispatch system immediately upon:

1. Receiving notification from the director that the driver does not meet the requirements of K.C.C. 6.64.211.A.; or

2. Having knowledge that a driver meets the criteria for the driver's license to be immediately suspended under K.C.C. 6.64.610;

L. Maintain a policy that prohibits the company's drivers while active on the company's dispatch system from being under the influence of any alcohol, narcotics, drugs, or prescription or over-the-counter medication that might impair their performance or in any way jeopardize the safety or security of passengers or the public. Provide notice of the policy on the company's website, mobile application and passenger trip confirmations and include in the notice a telephone number, web site link and email address for a passenger to report to the company a driver who the passenger suspects was in violation of the policy during a trip;

M. Maintain the rate structure documented with the application or file with the director for approval the documentation required by K.C.C. 6.64.760.C.;

N. Require the company's drivers to comply with K.C.C. 6.64.665.

O. Provide a written insurance disclosure to the company's drivers that includes the following language: "[insert name of company] confirms that while driver [insert driver's full name] is active on the application dispatch system, the driver's vehicle is insured as required by K.C.C. chapter 6.64"; and

P. Pay all penalties assessed against the company. (Ord. 19699 § 6, 2023: Ord. 17892 § 24, 2014).

6.64.261 Transportation network company – drivers active on dispatch system must have for-hire driver's license – required vehicles for drivers active on dispatch system.

A. It is unlawful for a driver to be active on a transportation network company's dispatch system without a for-hire driver's license.

B. It is unlawful for a driver while active on a transportation network company's dispatch system to operate a vehicle other than a taxicab, for-hire vehicle or transportation network company endorsed vehicle. (Ord. 17892 § 25, 2014).

6.64.271 Transportation network company vehicle endorsement – requirements of persons, vehicles.

A. The director shall not issue a transportation network company vehicle endorsement unless the person meets the following requirements:

1. Has a for-hire driver's permit, as described in K.C.C. 6.64.595.B., or a transportation network company license under this chapter; and

2. Is affiliated with a licensed transportation network company.

B. The director shall not issue a transportation network company vehicle endorsement unless the vehicle meets the following requirements:

1. Has insurance that complies with K.C.C. 6.64.211 and state law;

2. Has a certificate of safety as required by K.C.C. 6.64.360; and

3. The vehicle's model year is no more than fifteen years old. (Ord. 19699 § 7, 2023: Ord. 18874 § 1, 2019: Ord. 17892 § 26, 2014).

6.64.281 Transportation network company vehicle endorsement – annual filing – certificate and decal – expiration – lease, transfer or assignment prohibited.

A. An applicant for a transportation network company vehicle endorsement, or a transportation network company on behalf of the applicant, shall file annually with the director a signed application on a form provided by the director to include the following information about the applicant:

1. Name, aliases, residence or business address and residence and business telephone numbers;

2. If the applicant is an individual, the date of birth, which shall be at least twenty years before the date of application, height, weight, and color of eyes;

3. If the applicant is an individual, a valid driver's license number. The applicant shall present the applicant's valid driver's license or a copy at the time of application;

4. If the applicant is an individual, evidence of a for-hire driver's license or permit, or an approved application for a for-hire driver's license or permit;

5. Vehicle information including vehicle identification number or numbers and valid license plate number or numbers;

6. Evidence of vehicle insurance as required in K.C.C. 6.64.211;

7. Vehicle certificate of safety required by K.C.C. 6.64.360;

8. Whether any of the circumstances in K.C.C. 6.64.291.B. apply to the applicant;

9. Evidence that the applicant is affiliated with a transportation network company; and

10. Other information as reasonably determined by the director.

B. The transportation network company vehicle endorsement consists of a certificate and an endorsement decal affixed to the vehicle. The certificate shall include the following:

1. Vehicle identification number;

2. Vehicle registered owner's full legal name;

3. Vehicle license plate number;

4. Endorsement expiration date;

5. Unique number; and

6. Other information the director may reasonably require.

C. A transportation network company vehicle endorsement is valid for not more than one year.

D. A person shall not lease, transfer or assign a transportation network company vehicle endorsement. (Ord. 19699 § 8, 2023: Ord. 18874 § 2, 2019: Ord. 17892 § 27, 2014).

6.64.291 Transportation network company vehicle endorsement – denial of application.

A. The director shall deny any transportation network company vehicle endorsement application if the director determines that:

1. The applicant has failed to affiliate with a licensed transportation network company;

2. The applicant fails to meet one or more of the applicant or vehicle requirements under K.C.C. 6.64.271.A. or B.; or

3. The application is incomplete or has a misstatement or omission of material fact.

B. The director may deny any transportation network company vehicle endorsement application if the director determines that any one or more of the following apply:

1. Within two years of the date of application, the applicant has engaged in the business of operating in unincorporated King County a taxicab or for-hire vehicle for which a license is required while unlicensed or while such license was suspended or revoked;

2. Within twelve months of the date of application, the applicant has violated any city of Seattle, Port of Seattle or King County ordinance or regulation pertaining to the operation of licensed taxicabs or licensed for-hire vehicles while in those jurisdictions, if such a violation would constitute grounds for license revocation or denial if occurring within King County; and

3. Within twelve months of the date of application, the applicant has its King County taxicab or for-hire vehicle license revoked. (Ord. 17892 § 28, 2014).

6.64.295 Transportation network company vehicle endorsement – suspension – ceasing operation and surrender of decal.

A. A transportation network company endorsement shall be immediately suspended if:

1. At any time the insurance required by K.C.C. 6.64.211 expires, lapses or is cancelled or revoked; or

2. The director places the vehicle out-of-service for a violation of a vehicle standard that is found to be an immediate safety hazard and immediate suspension is necessary to prevent a clear, substantial and imminent hazard to life, safety or property.

B. When an endorsement has been suspended under subsection A. of this section, the operation of the vehicle on a transportation network company dispatch system must cease and the endorsement decal surrendered immediately to the director. (Ord. 17892 § 29, 2014).

6.64.300 Transportation network company endorsed vehicle - vehicle endorsement required. It is unlawful to own or operate, advertise or engage in the business of operating a transportation network company endorsed vehicle [in unincorporated King County]* without first having obtained, for each and every vehicle so used, a transportation network company vehicle endorsement issued under K.C.C. 6.64.281. (Ord. 19699 § 9, 2023: Ord. 17892 § 30, 2014: Ord. 10498 § 10, 1992).

*Reviser's note: Not included in Ordinance 17892 and Ordinance 19699, but not deleted as required in K.C.C. 1.24.075.

6.64.360 Certificate of safety – maintenance and service records retention – maintenance of vehicles – certification required of vehicles previously determined to be total wrecks or total losses – factory specifications required for rebuilt or significantly altered vehicles – ensurance of safety compliance and maintenance by vehicle owner – placement of vehicles out of service if determined to be immediate safety hazards.

A. The certificate of safety required by K.C.C. 6.64.271 shall be provided by an approved mechanic and shall certify that the following items are mechanically sound and fit for driving:

1. Foot brakes;

2. Emergency brakes;

3. Steering mechanism;

4. Windshield;

5. Rear window and other glass;

6. Windshield wipers;

7. Headlights;

8. Tail lights;

9. Turn indicator lights;

10. Stop lights;

11. Front seat adjustment mechanism;

12. Doors, including that doors properly open, close and lock;

13. Horn;

14. Speedometer;

15. Bumpers;

16. Muffler and exhaust system;

17. Condition of tires, including tread depth;

18. Interior and exterior rear view mirrors;

19. Safety belts and air bags for driver and a passenger or passengers; and

20. Other items reasonably required by the director.

B. The vehicle owner shall keep all maintenance and service records for all vehicles for three years.

C. Vehicles shall be maintained following the service standards recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.

D. A vehicle that has been in a collision and determined by the insurance adjuster to be a total wreck or total loss shall not be placed back in service until an approved mechanic with a current certification in structural analysis and damage repair has verified that there is no damage to the vehicle frame.

E. A vehicle shall not be rebuilt or significantly modified from factory specifications.

F. Each vehicle owner shall ensure that the safety standards, conditions and requirements in this section are met and continually maintained.

G. The director shall place a vehicle out of service if the director determines that a violation of this section is an immediate safety hazard and immediate suspension is necessary to prevent a clear, substantial and imminent hazard to life, safety or property. (Ord. 19699 § 10, 2023: Ord. 17892 § 36, 2014: Ord. 17665 § 5, 2013: 10498 § 16, 1992).

6.64.500 For-hire driver's license required. It is unlawful for any person to drive, be in control of, or operate a transportation network company endorsed vehicle in the unincorporated areas of King County without first having obtained a valid for-hire driver's license. K.C.C. 6.64.510 through K.C.C. 6.64.690 apply to drivers of endorsed vehicles unless the context clearly requires otherwise. (Ord. 19699 § 11, 2023: Ord. 17892 § 46, 2014: Ord. 17665 § 15, 2013: Ord. 10498 § 27, 1992).

6.64.510 For-hire driver's license - initial and annual application. For an initial for-hire driver's license and annually thereafter, the applicant, or transportation network company on behalf of the applicant, shall file a signed application on a form approved by the director. The application may be filed online, by email, by United States mail or in person, The application shall include the following: name; height; weight; and eyes; residence address; place and date of birth; social security number; driver's license number; aliases; consent to a background check or a copy of a background check as required by K.C.C. 6.64.520; whether the applicant has ever had a license suspended, revoked or denied and for what cause; the information required in K.C.C. 6.64.530 and 6.64.590; and any other information as the director may reasonably require. (Ord. 19699 § 12, 2023: Ord. 17892 § 47, 2014: Ord. 17665 § 16, 2013: Ord. 10498 § 28, 1992).

6.64.520 For-hire driver's license – investigation. All applicants for a for-hire driver's license shall:

A. Be referred for fingerprinting, and all applications shall be referred for a state and federal background investigation under RCW 36.01.300 to regulate the issuance of licenses of those engaged in the taxicab and for-hire occupations and activities; or

B. Have a copy of a criminal background check provided directly from a third party approved by the director. The director shall annually issue the list of third parties that are approved to conduct background checks. Approved third parties shall at a minimum:

1. Include local, state and national databases;

2. Access at least five years of database history; and

3. Demonstrate competency in providing accurate information. (Ord. 17892 § 48, 2014: Ord. 17665 § 17, 2013: Ord. 10680 § 1, 1992: Ord. 10498 § 29, 1992).

6.64.530 For-hire driver's license – qualifications. The director shall not issue a for-hire driver's license to a person unless the following requirements about the person are met:

A. Must be twenty years old or older;

B. Must possess a valid driver's license;

C. Must submit a certificate of fitness;

D. Must have completed the training program required by K.C.C. 6.64.570; and

E. Must successfully complete the examination required by K.C.C. 6.64.580. (Ord. 19699 § 13, 2023: Ord. 17892 § 49, 2014: Ord. 17665 § 18, 2013: Ord. 10498 § 30, 1992).

6.64.540 For-hire's driver's license – temporary permit.

A. Pending final action on a for-hire driver's license application, the director shall issue a temporary permit within two business days to an applicant who has:

1. Filed a complete application as required by K.C.C. 6.64.510 that has been reviewed under K.C.C. 6.64.600; and

2. Passed the examination required by K.C.C. 6.64.580.

B. The temporary permit is valid for a period not to exceed sixty days from the date of the application.

C. The temporary permit shall not be transferable or assignable.

D. The temporary permit shall be immediately null and void if at any time the applicant's valid driver's license is no longer valid, or following the denial of an application. (Ord. 19699 § 14, 2023: Ord. 17892 § 50, 2014: Ord. 15263 § 6, 2005: Ord. 10498 § 31, 1992).

6.64.550 For-hire driver's license – application null and void if applicant fails or neglects to complete the application process or obtain a license. An application for a for-hire driver's license shall become null and void after sixty days from the date of filing if the applicant, for any reason, fails or neglects to complete the application process or obtain a license. (Ord. 17892 § 51, 2014: Ord. 10498 § 32, 1992).

6.64.560 For-hire driver – certification of being physically and mentally fit – medical examination upon appearance of incapacitation rendering licensee unfit.

A. The applicant shall certify on a form prescribed by the director that the applicant is physically and mentally fit to be a for-hire driver.

B. The director may at any time require any for-hire licensee or applicant to be medically examined if it appears that the licensee has become physically or mentally incapacitated to such a degree as to render the applicant or licensee unfit for a for-hire driver. The examination shall be performed by a physician licensed to practice in the state of Washington. The director shall prescribe the scope of the examination and provide a certificate form for the physician to complete. (Ord. 17892 § 52, 2014: Ord. 10498 § 33, 1992).

6.64.570 For-hire driver – required training.

A. An initial for-hire driver applicant is required to complete:

1. Before filling an application, a training program providing information about defensive driving, use of emergency procedures and equipment for the driver’s personal safety, risk factors for crimes against for-hire drivers, enhancement of driver and passenger relations, professional conduct and communication skills; and

2. Before the end of the temporary permit period under K.C.C. 6.64.540, the National Safety Council Defensive Driving Course.

B. A currently licensed for-hire driver shall satisfy the requirements of subsection A. of this section if:

1. A transportation network company with which the driver is affiliated requests that the driver receive a refresher course; or

2. The director has reasonable grounds, based on documented complaints or violations, to believe that a refresher course is necessary.

C. The director shall assure that this training is offered by the county or offered by another public or private entity, or offered by both. The director shall annually approve the content and testing process for training offered by a noncounty entity.

D. A for-hire driver who operates a wheelchair accessible taxicab must successfully complete a separate training program for the special needs of passengers in wheelchairs including, but not limited to, loading and tie-down procedures and door-to-door service. (Ord. 19699 § 15, 2023: Ord. 17892 § 53, 2014: Ord. 15263 § 7, 2005: Ord. 10498 § 34, 1992).

6.64.580 For-hire driver – examination.

A. An applicant for an initial for-hire driver's license shall be required to successfully complete an examination.

B. The examination shall test the applicant's knowledge of the requirements dealing with fare determination, driver-passenger relations, conduct including the applicant's ability to understand oral and written directions in the English language, vehicle safety requirements, transportation network company vehicle endorsement and driver regulations, risk factors for crimes against for-hire drivers, emergency procedures and equipment for driver’s personal safety. The examination shall also test the applicant’s geographical knowledge of King County and surrounding areas and local public and tourist destinations and attractions.

C. The examination is not required for the renewal of a for-hire driver's license unless the applicant's license has remained expired for more than one year.

D. The director shall assure that these examinations are offered by the county or offered by another public or private entity, or offered by both. The director shall annually approve the content and procedures for examinations offered by a noncounty entity. (Ord. 19699 § 16, 2023: Ord. 17892 § 54, 2014: Ord. 17665 § 19, 2013: Ord. 15263 § 8, 2005: Ord. 10498 § 35, 1992).

6.64.590 For-hire driver – driving abstract. Each applicant for a for-hire driver's license shall provide a current copy, or authorize the director to obtain a current copy, of the applicant's driving abstract from the Washington state Department of Licensing. (Ord. 17892 § 55, 2014: Ord. 10498 § 36, 1992).

6.64.595 For-hire license – pick up directly from director – "for-hire permit" display for applicant affiliated with transportation network company - form of license – determined by director – placement.

A. A for-hire license that has been approved from an application filed online, by email or by United States mail shall be picked up directly from the director, and the applicant shall show photo identification.

B. The for-hire driver's license shall be in a form as determined by the director. When issued to an applicant who is affiliated with a transportation network company, the license shall display "for-hire permit." A copy shall be placed inside each transportation network company endorsed vehicle so that the license is clearly visible from the passenger compartment at all times that the licensee is operating, driving or using the vehicle. (Ord. 19699 § 17, 2023: Ord. 17892 § 56, 2014: Ord. 17665 § 20, 2013).

6.64.600 For-hire driver license – denial of application.

A. The director shall deny any initial or renewal application for a for-hire driver license if the director determines that the applicant:

1. Has made a misstatement or omission of material fact in the application;

2. Fails to meet any of the qualifications of a for-hire driver;

3. Has had, within five years of the date of application, a criminal conviction or a bail forfeiture for a crime pertaining to hit-and-run, reckless driving, attempting to elude an officer by using a vehicle, vehicular assault, vehicular homicide, reckless endangerment or driving under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance, or has been found to be a habitual traffic offender;

4. Is required to register as a sex offender; or

5. Has been convicted of a sex offense or kidnapping offense against a minor.

B. The director may deny any for-hire driver license application if the director determines that the applicant:

1. Has had, within five years of the date of application, a criminal conviction or a bail forfeiture involving a crime pertaining to prostitution, gambling, physical violence or other crimes reasonably related to the applicant's honesty and integrity, including, but not limited to, fraud, larceny, burglary or extortion or reasonably related to the person’s ability to operate as a for-hire driver;

2. Has been found through a criminal conviction, bail forfeiture, judgment in a civil suit or decision in an administrative proceeding, or has been proven by a preponderance of the evidence regardless of whether the same act was charged as a civil infraction or a crime, to have exhibited past conduct in driving or operating as a for-hire driver that would lead the director to reasonably conclude that the applicant will not comply with the provisions of the chapter related to driver and operator conduct and the safe operation of the vehicle;

3. Has been found through a criminal conviction, bail forfeiture, judgment in a civil suit or decision in an administrative proceeding, or has been proven by a preponderance of the evidence regardless of whether the same act was charged as a civil infraction or a crime, to have exhibited a past driving or criminal record that would lead the director to reasonably conclude that the applicant would not operate a vehicle in a safe manner; or

4. Has a felony conviction or bail forfeiture related to a felony under the laws of Washington, another state or under federal law. (Ord. 17892 § 57, 2014: Ord. 17665 § 21, 2013: Ord. 13984 § 1, 2000: Ord. 10498 § 37, 1992).

6.64.610 For-hire driver's license – suspension or revocation.

A. A for-hire driver's license shall be immediately suspended and is null and void if:

1. At any time the driver no longer possesses a valid driver's license;

2. The director obtains information after license issuance that the driver fails to meet the qualifications of a for-hire driver; or

3. The driver is found to be in possession of controlled substances or alcohol while in control of or while operating a vehicle as a for-hire driver;

B. The director may suspend or revoke a for-hire driver's license if the director determines that the licensee has:

1. Received a conviction or bail forfeiture for a crime that would be grounds for denial as set forth in K.C.C. 6.64.600;

2. Failed to comply with the driver standards as set forth in this chapter; or

3. A driving record that leads the director to reasonably conclude that the applicant would not operate a vehicle in a safe manner. (Ord. 19699 § 18, 2023: Ord. 17892 § 58, 2014: Ord. 17665 § 22, 2013: Ord. 10498 § 38, 1992).

6.64.620 For-hire driver – additional requirements for license issuance. In addition to the application requirements in this chapter, the director may obtain other information concerning the applicant's character, integrity, personal habits, past conduct and general qualifications that shows the applicant's ability and skill as a for-hire driver and the applicant's honesty, integrity and character for the purposes of determining whether the applicant is a suitable person to drive as a for-hire driver. If the director is satisfied that the applicant possesses the qualifications and is a suitable person to drive as a for-hire driver under this chapter, the director shall issue the applicant a for-hire driver's license. (Ord. 17892 § 59, 2014: Ord. 10498 § 39, 1992).

6.64.630 For-hire driver – license expiration. A for-hire driver's license shall expire one year from the date of application. A licensee shall secure a renewal of the license no later than one month before the license expiration date. (Ord. 17892 § 60, 2014: Ord. 10498 § 40, 1992).

6.64.640 For-hire driver – operating standards. A driver shall not operate a vehicle in violation of any of the for-hire driver standards in this chapter. (Ord. 17892 § 61, 2014: Ord. 10498 § 41, 1992).

6.64.650 Driver – vehicle safety standards.

A. A driver, before starting each shift, shall check the lights, brakes, tires, steering, seat belts, and other vehicle equipment to see that they are working properly. The driver shall also ensure that the transportation network company vehicle endorsement certificate, vehicle registration and proof of insurance card are in the vehicle.

B. A driver shall maintain the interior and the exterior of the vehicle in a clean condition and good repair.

C. A driver shall neither transport more passengers than the number of seat belts available nor more luggage than the vehicle capacity will safely and legally allow.

D. A driver shall not drive, be in control of or operate a vehicle that does not meet the applicable vehicle standards as set forth in this chapter.

E. A driver shall allow the director to inspect the vehicle at any reasonable time or place. (Ord. 19699 § 19, 2023: Ord. 17892 § 62, 2014: Ord. 10498 §§ 42-46, 1992).

6.64.660 Driver – conduct standards.

A. A driver shall not operate a vehicle under the influence of any alcohol, narcotics, drugs, or prescription or over-the-counter medication that might impair the driver's performance or in any way jeopardize the safety or security of passengers or the public.

B. A driver shall, at the end of each trip, check the driver's vehicle for any article that is left behind by any passenger. The articles must be reported as found property on the hotline number, as well as to the transportation network company, and the articles are to be returned to the transportation network company at the end of the shift or sooner.

C. A driver shall have in the driver's possession and posted as required in K.C.C. 6.64.595 a valid for-hire driver's license at any time the driver is driving, in control of or operating a vehicle and the license shall be displayed as prescribed by the director.

D. A driver shall comply with any written notice and order by the director.

E. A driver shall not operate a vehicle when the vehicle has been placed out-of-service by order of the director.

F. A driver shall immediately surrender the vehicle license plate or decal to the director upon written notice that the vehicle is out-of-service.

G. A driver shall not be in control of a vehicle for more than fourteen consecutive hours in any twenty-four-hour period. Thereafter, the driver shall not drive a vehicle until eight consecutive hours have elapsed.

H. A driver shall operate the vehicle with due regard for the safety, comfort and convenience of passengers.

I. A driver shall neither solicit for prostitution nor allow the vehicle to be used for prostitution.

J. A driver shall not knowingly allow the vehicle to be used for the illegal solicitation, transportation, sale or any other activity related to controlled substances.

K. A driver shall deposit all refuse appropriately and under no circumstances may litter.

L. A driver shall not use offensive language, expressions or gestures to any person while the driver is driving, operating or in control of a vehicle.

M. A driver shall not operate a wheelchair accessible taxicab unless the driver has successfully completed the special training requirements in K.C.C. 6.64.570.

N. A driver shall not use a mobile phone unless in hands-free mode, consistent with RCW 46.61.667. (Ord. 19699 § 20, 2023: Ord. 17892 § 63, 2014: Ord. 17665 § 23, 2013: Ord. 15971 § 48, 2007: Ord. 15263 § 9, 2005: Ord. 10498 §§ 47 - 60, 1992).

6.64.665 Transportation network company's driver – additional standards.

In addition to meeting the for-hire driver standards in this chapter, a transportation network company's driver shall meet the following standards:

A. When active on a transportation network company's application dispatch system, shall drive only the vehicle for which the driver has an endorsement; and

B. When driving an endorsed vehicle, shall only provide rides to fare-paying passengers that are booked through a transportation network company's application dispatch system. (Ord. 17892 § 64, 2014).

6.64.680 Driver-passenger relations standards.

A. When wearing a costume a driver shall display a photograph of the driver dressed in the costume along with the driver's for-hire license.

B. A driver shall provide a customer with professional and courteous service at all times.

C. A driver shall at all times assist a passenger by placing luggage or packages that are under fifty pounds in and out of the vehicle.

D. A driver shall not refuse to transport in the vehicle:

1. Any passenger's wheelchair that can be folded and placed in either the passenger, driver or trunk compartment of the vehicle;

2. An assist dog or guide dog to assist the disabled or handicapped; and

3. Groceries, packages or luggage when accompanied by a passenger.

E. A driver shall provide each passenger an electronic or paper receipt upon payment of the fare.

F. A driver shall use the most direct available route on all trips unless the passenger specifically requests to change the route.

G. A driver shall not smoke in the vehicle.

H. If operating a wheelchair accessible transportation network company endorsed vehicle, a driver shall provide priority service to private pay passengers in wheelchairs or other mobility devices.

I. A driver must be clean and neat in dress and person and present a professional appearance to the public. (Ord. 19699 § 21, 2023: Ord. 17892 § 66, 2014: Ord. 17665 § 25, 2013: Ord. 15263 § 10, 2005: Ord. 10498 §§ 69-79, 1992).

6.64.690 Driver – soliciting and cruising standards.

A. A driver shall load or unload passengers at Sea-Tac airport only as permitted by the Sea-Tac International Airport Schedule of Rules and Regulations.

B. A driver shall not drive, be in control of or operate a vehicle to pick up passengers at Sea-Tac airport without having on display a Port of Seattle authorized permit.

C. A driver shall not solicit on Sea-Tac property.

D. A driver shall not hold out for designated destinations. (Ord. 19699 § 22, 2023: Ord. 18728 § 79, 2018: Ord. 17892 § 67, 2014: Ord. 10498 §§ 80 - 85, 1992).

6.64.740 Director – annual report.

A. On or before April 30 of each year, the director shall file an annual report with the council for January 1 through December 31 of the preceding calendar year.

B. The report shall include, but not be limited to:

1. Number of transportation network company endorsed vehicles in King County, in Seattle only and in both King County and Seattle during the reporting period and during the preceding year;

2. Number of drivers licensed in King County only, Seattle only and in both King County and Seattle during the reporting period and during the preceding year;

3. Numbers and nature of complaints;

4. Any other recommendations deemed appropriate by the director.

C. The report required by this section shall be filed in the form of a paper original and an electronic copy with the clerk of the council, who shall retain the paper original and distribute electronic copies to all councilmembers. (Ord. 19699 § 23, 2023: Ord. 17892 § 72, 2014: Ord. 17665 § 27, 2013: Ord. 10498 § 93, 1992).

6.64.760 Rates - requirements.

A.1. Transportation network companies that use an application dispatch system shall file with the director documentation or provide a physical demonstration of the application dispatch rate structure that is visible to a passenger before the passenger confirms a ride.

2. The director shall approve the rate structure as transparent if, when a passenger requests a ride but before the passenger accepts the ride, the application clearly displays:

a. the total fare or fare range;

b. the rate by distance or time; and

c. any variables that may result in a higher fare or additional charges; or

3. the cost of the ride is made clear to the passenger before the passenger confirms the ride through an alternative method approved by the director.

B. The rates specified in this section shall not apply to transportation of persons provided pursuant to a written contract that establishes a fare at a different rate for specified transportation and that has been previously filed with the director. No contract may include any provision that directly or indirectly requires exclusive use of the transportation services of the contracting taxicab or for-hire vehicle.

C. It is unlawful to make any discriminatory charges to any person or to make any rebate or in any manner reduce the charge to any person, unless the charge conforms to the discounts or surcharges contained in the filed rates.

D. A transportation network company may not impose additional charges for providing services to persons with disabilities because of those disabilities, consistent with RCW 46.72B.110. (Ord. 19699 § 24, 2023: Ord. 17892 § 73, 2014: Ord. 17404 § 3, 2012: Ord. 16234 § 1, 2008: Ord. 15132 § 1, 2005: Ord. 10498 § 95, 1992).

6.64.780 Reports by transportation network companies and for-hire drivers.

A. A transportation network company shall:

1. Submit quarterly the following reports in an electronic format approved by the director:

a. total number of rides provided by each transportation network company;

b. type of dispatch for each ride, including whether by hail, telephone or application dispatch;

c. percentage or number of rides picked up in each ZIP code;

d. pickup and drop off ZIP codes of each ride;

e. percentage by ZIP code of rides requested by telephone or application dispatch that are requested but not provided;

f. vehicle collisions, including the name of the driver, identification of the vehicle, collision fault, injuries and estimated damage;

g. number of requested rides for an accessible vehicle;

h. crimes against drivers;

i. passenger complaints; and

j. other information reasonably determined by the director as necessary to ensure compliance with this chapter by transportation network companies;

2. Retain for at least two years records related to the reports required under subsection A. of this section. Records may be maintained electronically; and

3. Provide instructions to its for-hire drivers for weekly reporting to the company or association the information needed for the reports in subsection A.1. of this section.

B. For-hire drivers comply with the reporting requirements in subsection A.3. of this section. (Ord. 17892 § 74, 2014).

6.64.790 Licensees – protection of information that is confidential, proprietary or business secrets – procedures for disclosure and release of materials subject to disclosure. If a licensee considers any portion of any record provided to the county under this chapter, whether in electronic or hard copy form, to be protected under law, the licensee shall clearly identify each such portion with words such as "confidential," "proprietary" or "business secret." If a request is made for disclosure of such portion under the state Public Records Act, the county will determine whether the material should be made available. If the county determines that the material is subject to disclosure, the county will notify the licensee of the request and allow the licensee ten business days to take whatever action it deems necessary to protect its interests. If the licensee fails or neglects to take such action within ten days, the county will release the portions of records deemed by the county to be subject to disclosure. (Ord. 17892 § 75, 2014).

6.64.800 Penalties.

A.1. The director may assess the following civil penalties:

a. up to ten thousand dollars for each violation of the following:

(1) K.C.C. 6.64.201; and

(2) K.C.C. 6.64.251;

b. up to one thousand dollars for a violation of any of the following:

(1) K.C.C. 6.64.261;

(2) K.C.C. 6.64.300;

(3) K.C.C. 6.64.360;

(4) K.C.C. 6.64.500;

(5) K.C.C. 6.64.640;

(6) K.C.C. 6.64.650;

(7) K.C.C. 6.64.660;

(8) K.C.C. 6.64.665;

(9) K.C.C. 6.64.680; and

(10) K.C.C. 6.64.690.

2. In determining a penalty under subsection A.1. of this section, the director shall consider: the size of the business of the violator; the gravity of the violation; the number of past and present violations committed; and the good faith of the violator in attempting to achieve compliance after notification of the violation.

B. As an alternative to the civil penalties in subsection A. of this section:

1. A violation of K.C.C. 6.64.300, K.C.C. 6.64.500 or K.C.C. 6.64.261 is a Class 1 civil infraction and shall subject the violator to a maximum monetary penalty and default amount of one thousand dollars, inclusive of statutory assessments. An infraction under this subsection shall be initiated and processed under the Infraction Rules for Courts of Limited Jurisdiction, and the director is the enforcement officer under RCW 7.80.040. A person who is issued a notice of infraction shall not be assessed a civil penalty under subsection A. of this section for the same violation. In determining whether to issue a notice of infraction instead of a civil penalty under subsection A. of this section, the director shall consider whether it would be a more efficient method of providing notice to persons who are in violation.

2. Each subsequent violation of K.C.C. 6.64.300, K.C.C. 6.64.500 or K.C.C. 6.64.261 within five years of the prior violation is a misdemeanor. A person who is prosecuted for the misdemeanor in this subsection shall not be issued a notice of civil infraction or assessed a civil penalty for the same violation. In determining whether to refer a person for prosecution for a misdemeanor, the director shall consider whether it would be a deterrent to future violations. (Ord. 19699 § 26, 2023: Ord. 17892 § 76, 2014: Ord. 10498 § 97, 1992).

6.64.830 Notice and order of denial, suspension, revocation of license or assessment of civil penalty. If the director denies, suspends or revokes a license or assesses a civil penalty under this chapter, the director shall issue a notice and order under K.C.C. 6.01.130. (Ord. 17892 § 77, 2014).

6.64.900 Consumer complaint hotline. The director may establish, in conjunction with the city of Seattle and the Port of Seattle, a shared consumer complaint telephone number and complaint process. (Ord. 17892 § 78, 2014: Ord. 10498 § 100, 1992).

6.64.910 Passenger complaint process.

A. Upon receiving a written complaint involving the conduct of a for-hire driver, the route of transportation, the rate charged for the transportation or passenger injury or property damage not arising from a vehicle accident, the director shall:

1. Issue a notice of complaint to the for-hire driver and vehicle owner, taxicab association or transportation network company, as applicable, advising them of the allegations made in the complaint;

2. Require the for-hire driver and vehicle owner, association or company, as applicable, to respond, in writing, to the allegations in the notice of complaint within ten days of receipt of the notice of complaint;

3. Investigate the allegations in the written complaint and the response submitted by the for-hire driver and vehicle owner, association or company, as applicable; and

4. Make a finding as to the validity of the allegations in the written complaint. If it is found to be a valid complaint the director shall issue a notice and order under K.C.C. 6.01.130.

B. Failure to respond in writing to a notice of complaint within ten days shall constitute a waiver of the for-hire driver's, vehicle owner's, association's or company's right to contest the allegations in the written complaint and shall be prima facie evidence that the allegations are valid. The director shall issue a notice and order under K.C.C. 6.01.130 if there is a failure to respond in writing. (Ord. 17892 § 79, 2014: Ord. 10498 § 101, 1992).

6.65 FOR-HIRE TRANSPORTATION - REGIONAL FOR-HIRE DRIVERS, REGIONAL DISPATCH AGENCIES, TAXICABS, AND FOR-HIRE DRIVERS

Sections:

6.65.010 Purpose.

6.65.020 Scope.

6.65.030 Executive approval of agreements - city of Seattle, Port of Seattle.

6.65.035 Executive approval of agreements - other city, town, county, or port district.

6.65.040 Definitions.

6.65.050 Fees.

6.65.060 Fee surcharge for taxicab licensees, for-hire vehicle licensees and transportation network companies – use of fee surcharge – rules adoption.

6.65.070 Regional for-hire driver's license required.

6.65.080 Wheelchair accessible vehicle endorsement.

6.65.090 Grant of license.

6.65.100 Inseparability of regional for-hire driver's license.

6.65.110 Enhanced regional for-hire driver's license.

6.65.120 Inseparability of enhanced regional for-hire driver's licenses.

6.65.130 Temporary license.

6.65.140 Other considerations.

6.65.150 Effect of application denial and license revocation.

6.65.160 Regional for-hire driver operation - requirements.

6.65.170 Regional for-hire driver operation - prohibitions generally.

6.65.180 Regional for-hire driver operation - prohibitions in a taxicab zone.

6.65.185 Seattle-Tacoma International Airport operation - additional standards.

6.65.190 Medallion system.

6.65.200 Medallions - allowable number.

6.65.210 Temporary deactivation and retirement of a taxicab or for-hire vehicle medallion.

6.65.220 Taxicab and for-hire vehicle - owner surrender of vehicle medallion.

6.65.230 Taxicab and for-hire vehicle medallion transfer.

6.65.240 Estate distribution of a taxicab or for-hire vehicle medallion.

6.65.250 Taxicab and for-hire vehicle - medallion and medallion reciprocity endorsement expiration and renewal.

6.65.260 Taxicab and for-hire vehicle initial and annual medallion application requirements.

6.65.270 Insurance requirements.

6.65.280 Vehicle safety inspections.

6.65.290 Wheelchair accessible vehicles.

6.65.300 Electrification of taxicabs and for-hire vehicles.

6.65.310 Taxicab and for-hire vehicle operation - requirements.

6.65.320 Taxicab and for-hire vehicle - vehicle lease requirements.

6.65.330 Transition of taxicab associations and for-hire vehicle companies to regional dispatch agencies.

6.65.340 Transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency license required.

6.65.350 Inseparable licenses.

6.65.360 Transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency operation - requirements.

6.65.370 Dispatch agency, vehicle owner, medallion owner, and regional for-hire driver relations.

6.65.380 Rates.

6.65.390 Emerging for-hire transportation models.

6.65.400 Passenger feedback.

6.65.410 For-hire transportation services complaint process.

6.65.420 Violations and penalties - generally.

6.65.430 Violations and penalties.

6.65.440 Citations and license actions.

6.65.450 Notice and hearing for citations, denials, suspensions, summary suspensions, and revocations.

6.65.460 Director's reports.

6.65.470 Rulemaking authority.

6.65.475 Autonomous operation of automated driving system prohibited.

6.65.480 Additional remedies

6.65.495 Penalty for violation of K.C.C. chapter 6.64 regarding matters under the scope of this chapter remains due and payable.

6.65.010 Purpose.

A. This chapter is an exercise of King County's power to regulate the for-hire transportation industry. That exercise includes the power to license and regulate taxicabs, for-hire vehicles, taxicab and for-hire vehicle drivers, transitional regional dispatch agencies, and regional dispatch agencies. Some of its regulatory purposes are to increase the safety, reliability, cost-effectiveness, and economic viability and stability of privately operated for-hire vehicle and taxicab services within King County.

B. The obligation of complying with this chapter belongs to the licensee or applicant for a license. Neither a provision of, nor a term used in, this chapter is intended to impose any duty whatsoever upon the county or any of its officers or employees, for whom the implementation or enforcement of this chapter shall be discretionary and not mandatory.

C. This chapter is not intended to be and shall not be construed to create or form, the basis for any liability on the part of the county or its officers, employees, or agents, for any injury or damage resulting from the failure of a licensee or applicant for license to comply with this chapter, or by reason or in consequence of any act or omission in connection with the implementation or enforcement of this chapter on the part of the county by its officers, employees, or agents.

D. This chapter is intended to reduce regulatory complexity, promote equity and innovation, improve transportation and integration of the for-hire transportation industry, and ensure consumer protection and public safety. To fulfill these purposes, King County:

1. Establishes reciprocal licensing privileges for city of Seattle medallion owners to operate within King County. This reciprocity authorizes medallion owners to operate in both King County and the city of Seattle;

2. Establishes regional operating privileges for taxicab and for-hire vehicle drivers licensed by the city of Seattle to operate within King County. This license allows the driver to operate in both King County and the city of Seattle;

3. Consolidates the regulatory classifications of taxicabs and for-hire vehicles into a single taxicab standard. When a for-hire vehicle transitions to a taxicab, the reciprocal operating privilege will follow;

4. Consolidates the regulatory classifications of taxicab associations and for-hire vehicle companies into a single, regional dispatch agency license that is subject to a common set of operating rules and standards;

5. Establishes regional licensing privileges for taxicab associations and for-hire vehicle companies licensed by the city of Seattle to operate in King County. When a taxicab association or for-hire vehicle company transitions to a regional dispatch agency, the regional license will follow; and

6. Establishes a requirement for each regional dispatch agency to adopt a smart taximeter system. (Ord. 19700 § 2, 2024).

6.65.020 Scope. This chapter applies to taxicab associations, for-hire vehicle companies, taxicabs, for-hire vehicles, and drivers of those vehicles. K.C.C. chapter 6.64 applies to transportation network companies, transportation network company drivers, and transportation network company vehicles. Regulation of transportation network companies, transportation network company drivers, or transportation network company endorsed vehicles remains in K.C.C. chapter 6.64. (Ord. 19700 § 3, 2024).

6.65.030 Executive approval of agreements - city of Seattle, Port of Seattle. The executive may execute an interlocal agreement with either the city of Seattle or the Port of Seattle, or both, for the purposes of coordinating and consolidating the regulation of the for-hire transportation industry under this chapter. (Ord. 19700 § 4, 2024).

6.65.035 Executive approval of agreements - other city, town, county, or port district. The executive or designee may enter into agreements with any other city, town, county, or port district for the joint regulation of for-hire and taxicab drivers in a manner consistent with the provisions of this chapter. Agreements may provide for, but are not limited to, the granting, revocation, and suspension of taxicab and for-hire driver licenses, or the sharing of enforcement responsibilities. (Ord. 19700 § 5, 2024).

6.65.040 Definitions. For the purposes of this chapter and unless the context plainly requires otherwise, the following definitions apply:

"Abnormal disruption of the market" means any change in the market, whether actual or imminently threatened, resulting from stress of weather, convulsion of nature, failure or shortage of electric power or other source of energy, strike, civil disorder, war, military action, national or local emergency, or any other cause.

"Application dispatch system" means technology that allows consumers, via the Internet using devices such as, but not limited to, smartphone and tablet applications to:

1. Directly request dispatch of regional for-hire drivers for trips; and

2. Accept payments for those trips.

"Approved mechanic" means a mechanic or technician on a list maintained by the director. The list shall contain the name each mechanic or technician that has been approved by director because they:

1. Have met all requirements of the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence;

2. Have been awarded a Certificate in Evidence of Competence satisfactory to the director; and

3. Do not own, lease, or drive a taxicab, for-hire vehicle, or transportation network company endorsed vehicle.

"Automated driving system" means hardware and software that are collectively capable of performing the entire dynamic driving task on a sustained basis, regardless of whether it is limited to a specific operational design domain and regardless of the presence of a driver.

"Autonomous operation" means the performance of the entire dynamic driving task by an automated driving system, beginning upon performance of the entire dynamic driving task by an automated driving system and continuing until the automated driving system is disengaged.

"Autonomous vehicle" means a vehicle with a level 3, level 4, or level 5 automated driving system as provided in the Society of Automotive Engineering International's J3016 standard.

"Certificate of safety" means a document from an approved mechanic certifying that a particular vehicle meets all vehicle safety standards set forth in this chapter, including the vehicle safety inspection, and rules adopted by the director in accordance with this chapter.

"Citation" means an enforcement action taken by the director that imposes monetary penalties when a person violates a requirement of this chapter.

"Contract rate" means the rate specified in a written agreement signed by both parties before the dispatch of a taxicab or for-hire vehicle for the services identified in the contract.

"Director" means the director of the records and licensing services division of the department of executive services, or the director's designee.

"Disability" has the same meaning as in K.C.C. 12.22.020.

"Dispatch system" means a system that allocates requests for trips to available drivers and that facilitates communication between a dispatcher and driver. A dispatch system may be integrated into a smart taximeter system.

"Egregious" means any moving violation that posed an immediate threat to the safety of the driver, any passengers in the vehicle, or to others.

"Fare" means anything of economic value that is provided, promised, or donated primarily in exchange for services rendered.

"For-hire transportation services" means services provided by licensees under this chapter.

"For-hire vehicle" means any motor vehicle used for the transportation of passengers for hire, and not operated exclusively over a fixed and definite route, except:

1. Taxicabs;

2. School buses operating exclusively under a contract to a school district;

3. Ride-sharing vehicles under chapter 46.74 RCW;

4. Limousine carriers licensed under chapter 46.72A RCW;

5. Vehicles used by nonprofit transportation providers solely for elderly or handicapped persons and their attendants under chapter 81.66 RCW;

6. Vehicles used by auto transportation companies licensed under chapter 81.68 RCW;

7. Vehicles used to provide courtesy transportation at no charge to and from parking lots, hotels, and rental offices;

8. Vehicles licensed under, and used to provide "charter party carrier" and "excursion service carrier" services as defined in, and required by, chapter 81.70 RCW; and

9. Transportation network company endorsed vehicles as defined in K.C.C. chapter 6.64 and transportation network company vehicles as defined in chapter 46.72B RCW.

"For-hire vehicle company" means a person that represents or owns for-hire vehicles licensed by the county that use the same color scheme, trade name, and dispatch services.

"Lessee" means a person who has a regional for-hire driver's license that leases a taxicab or for-hire vehicle required to be licensed under this chapter.

"Lessor" means a person who has leased a taxicab or for-hire vehicle to a lessee.

"License action" means an enforcement action taken by the director against a licensee that is a suspension, summary suspension, denial, or revocation of the license.

"Licensee" means any person required to be licensed under this chapter.

"Medallion" means a license issued by the director as a plate, decal, or other physical representation, that is evidence that a taxicab or for-hire vehicle medallion is intangible property.

"Medallion owner" means a person who owns a taxicab medallion, a wheelchair accessible taxicab medallion, or a for-hire vehicle medallion, issued by the director.

"Medallion reciprocity endorsement" means a designation on a medallion issued by the city of Seattle, or alternatively in the director's record of the medallion owner, which permits a vehicle to operate in King County.

"Medallion system" means the system that deems a taxicab or for-hire vehicle medallion to be intangible property that may be used as collateral to secure a loan from a bank or any other financial institution.

"Motor vehicle" means every motorized vehicle by or upon which any person may be transported or carried upon a public street, highway, or alley. Vehicles used exclusively upon stationary rail tracks or propelled by use of overhead electric wires are not considered motor vehicles for purposes of this chapter.

"Operate" or "operating" means owning, leasing, advertising, driving, parking in a taxicab zone, having a top light on, occupying, or otherwise being in control of a taxicab or for-hire vehicle that is available to transport, en route to pick up a passenger, or transporting any passenger for a fare from a point in unincorporated King County or any jurisdiction that has an interlocal agreement with King County for for-hire regulatory services. A taxicab association, for-hire vehicle company, transitional regional dispatch agency, or regional dispatch agency is "operating" if it represents or dispatches any taxicab or for-hire vehicle that at any time transports any passenger for a fare from a point within unincorporated King County or any jurisdiction that has an interlocal agreement with King County for for-hire regulatory services.

"Person" means any individual, partnership, association, corporation, firm, institution, or other entity, whether or not operated for profit. "Person" does not include:

1. A governmental entity of or within the United States;

2. An entity operating exclusively under contract with a government entity; or

3. That portion of an entity that is operating exclusively under contract with a government entity.

"Regional dispatch agency" means a person licensed under this chapter who represents or owns for-hire vehicles, until March 31, 2026, or taxicabs licensed by King County that use the same trade name and dispatch services.

"Regional dispatch agency representative" means a person who a transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency has authorized to:

1. File applications and other documents on behalf of the agency; and

2. Receive and accept all correspondence and notices from the director pertaining to the agency or its taxicabs, taxicab owners, for-hire vehicles, for-hire vehicle owners, or regional for-hire drivers affiliated with the regional dispatch agency.

"Regional for-hire driver" means any person in physical control of a taxicab or for-hire vehicle who is required to be licensed under this chapter and includes a lessee, owner/operator, or employee, who drives taxicabs or for-hire vehicles.

"Regional for-hire driver's license" means a license issued to an applicant for a regional for-hire driver's license who meets all criteria under this chapter for a regional for-hire driver's license.

"Regional for-hire driver’s license wheelchair accessible vehicle endorsement" means an endorsement applied to a regional for-hire driver’s license that demonstrates that the driver has successfully completed required training regarding the special needs of passengers in wheelchairs, including but not limited to, loading and tie-down procedures and door-to-door service.

"Smart taximeter" means a system of hardware and software that integrates a taximeter and other components together to perform functions required by this chapter.

"Smart taximeter system" means the system a regional dispatch agency uses to dispatch trips to, communicate with, and track the location of, affiliated vehicles and drivers through the smart taximeter. A smart taximeter system may include an application dispatch system.

"Taxicab" means every motor vehicle required to have a taxicab medallion to be used for the transportation of passengers for a fare, where the route traveled or destination is controlled by the passenger, and the fare is based on an amount recorded and indicated on a taximeter, smart taximeter, or on an application dispatch system.

"Taxicab association," means a person that represents or owns taxicabs licensed by King County that use the same uniform color scheme, trade name, and dispatch services.

"Taximeter" means any instrument or device by which the fare for a trip provided in a taxicab is measured or calculated either for the distance traveled by the taxicab or for waiting time, or for both, and upon which such calculated charges shall be indicated by means of figures.

"Transitional regional dispatch agency" means taxicab associations and for-hire vehicle companies, or other persons that meet the requirements of a transitional regional dispatch agency in this chapter that do not have a regional dispatch agency license.

"Transparent" means the trip fare, the fare range, and other pricing variables, are made readily available to a passenger before the passenger commits to taking the trip.

"Transportation network company" means the same as it is defined in K.C.C. chapter 6.64.

"Transportation network company endorsed vehicle" means the same as it is defined in K.C.C. chapter 6.64.

"Transportation network company vehicle endorsement" means the same as it is defined in K.C.C. chapter 6.64.

"Uniform color scheme" means the color or colors used by vehicles affiliated with a transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency and approved by the director for exclusive use.

"Voluntarily converted wheelchair accessible vehicle" means a director-inspected and director-approved taxicab or for-hire vehicle that is accessible to passengers in wheelchairs or other mobility devices but that is not required to be so as a condition of the vehicle’s medallion.

"Wheelchair accessible taxicab" means a taxicab that is required to be accessible to passengers in wheelchairs or other mobility devices as a condition of its wheelchair accessible taxicab medallion.

"Wheelchair accessible taxicab medallion" means a type of medallion issued by the director that requires the vehicle operated under the medallion to be accessible to passengers in wheelchairs and other mobility devices.

"Wheelchair accessible vehicle" means a taxicab or for-hire vehicle that has been designed or modified to transport passengers in wheelchairs or other mobility devices, conforms to the accessibility requirements of the regulations of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended, and has been inspected and approved by the director. "Wheelchair accessible vehicle" includes both voluntarily converted wheelchair accessible vehicles and wheelchair accessible taxicabs. (Ord. 19700 § 6, 2024).

6.65.050 Fees.

A. Fees applicable to this chapter are set out in K.C.C. 4A.750.100 and fee amounts may be changed by the director in accordance with this section and K.C.C. 6.65.470.

B. The director shall make available to the public a description of the procedures for setting fee amounts. The description shall include information on how to inquire about the proposed and adopted fee amounts and public comment opportunities.

C.1. The director shall give at least thirty days' notice of the intention to change fee amounts by providing the notification letter required by K.C.C. 6.65.470 and to:

a.(1) all persons who have made a timely request for advance notice of fee setting; and

(2) all existing fee payers; and

b. by publishing in the official county newspaper a summary of the notice of the proposed action, including the information in subsection C.2. a. through f. of this section.

2. The notice made in subsection C.1. of this section shall:

a. include a reference to this section;

b. include a reference to the fee type to which the proposed fee amount will be applied;

c. include a date and place by which comments must be submitted;

d. specify whether the proposal is a change to the fee amount or an elimination of a fee;

e. if the proposal is to change the fee amount, indicate both the amount of the existing fee and the proposed fee amount; and

f. state the reason for and methodology used to determine the proposed new fee amount.

3. The director shall consider all comments received by the prescribed date for comment before the fee amount is set.

D. A fee amount is set when signed by the director. The director is authorized to sign only if no motion rejecting the proposed fee amount is passed by the council in accordance with K.C.C. 6.65.470 or an ordinance amending a fee is effective. The new fee amount takes effect ten days after the director's signature.

E. Once a fee amount is set, the director shall post the amount of the fee in both written and electronic form for inspection, review and copying by the public and post the fee on the division's website.

F. A new fee may not be established unless the fee is approved by the council by ordinance.

G. The director may from time to time declare periods of amnesty in which the director may waive any penalty imposed under this chapter for delinquent payment of fees. Such periods of amnesty and the terms thereof may be established by the director upon a finding by the director that to do so would further the goals of the for-hire transportation industry and be in the public interest. The director may promulgate rules and procedures to implement the provisions of this section. (Ord. 19700 § 7, 2024).

6.65.060 Fee surcharge for taxicab licensees, for-hire vehicle licensees and transportation network companies – use of fee surcharge – rules adoption.

A. Each taxicab licensee and for-hire vehicle licensee shall pay a fee surcharge of the amount in K.C.C. 4A.750.100.C. and D. for all rides originating in:

1. Unincorporated King County; or

2. Any municipality that contracts with the county for the county to license taxicabs and for-hire vehicles that operate in the municipality.

6.65.070 Regional for-hire driver's license required.

A. It is unlawful for a person to operate a taxicab or for-hire vehicle without first having obtained a valid regional for-hire driver's license. A regional for-hire driver's license shall expire one year from the date of application. A regional for-hire driver's license is not transferable or assignable.

B. As of December 18, 2023, any valid for-hire driver's license previously issued to a driver under K.C.C. chapter 6.64, other than a for-hire driver's license that displays as a "for-hire permit" under K.C.C. 6.64.595, shall become a regional for-hire driver's license and all references to for-hire driver’s licenses shall mean regional for-hire driver’s licenses. As of December 18, 2023, for-hire drivers with a valid for-hire driver's license issued by the city of Seattle shall be deemed to also have a corresponding regional for-hire driver's license from King County, which shall be valid until the original expiration date.

C. Drivers with a for-hire driver's license that displays as a "for-hire permit" may continue to operate a taxicab or for-hire vehicle until the first license expiration date after December 18, 2023, at which time a regional for-hire driver's license or enhanced regional for-hire driver's license issued under this chapter shall be required to operate a taxicab or for-hire vehicle. (Ord. 19700 § 9, 2024).

6.65.080 Wheelchair accessible vehicle endorsement. It is unlawful for a driver to operate a wheelchair accessible vehicle without a regional for-hire driver'’s license wheelchair accessible vehicle endorsement. To obtain such an endorsement, a driver shall submit proof that the driver has successfully completed a director-approved training for providing for-hire transportation services in wheelchair accessible vehicles. Wheelchair accessible vehicle drivers must comply with K.C.C. 6.65.290, in addition to the requirements of K.C.C. 6.65.070 through K.C.C. 6.65.185. The director may take enforcement action against a regional for-hire driver’s license wheelchair accessible vehicle endorsement, a regional for-hire driver's license, or both, as consistent with this chapter. (Ord. 19700 § 10, 2024).

6.65.090 Grant of license. The director shall issue a regional for-hire driver’s license to an applicant who:

A. Is at least twenty years old;

B. Possesses a valid driver's license;

C. Completes driver training as approved by the director before submitting an initial application for a regional for-hire driver's license. Training shall include, but is not limited to:

1. A general for-hire driver training course with information about use of emergency procedures and equipment for the driver's personal safety, risk factors for crimes against for-hire drivers, and passenger service;

2. A defensive driving course provided by the National Safety Council and approved by the director, or an alternative defensive driving course approved by the director; and

3. Any other courses if required by the director after September 1, 2024;

D. Successfully completes a regional for-hire driver license examination or examinations approved by the director;

E. Submits a complete application, or consents to an application being submitted on the applicant's behalf, for a regional for-hire driver's license annually on a form or in a format approved by the director;

F. Provides a certification of fitness as a regional for-hire driver on a form or in a format approved by the director. The director may at any time require any applicant for, or holder of, a regional for-hire driver's license to be examined by a physician licensed to practice in the state of Washington if it appears that the applicant or licensee has become physically or mentally incapacitated so that the applicant or licensee is unfit as a regional for-hire driver. The director shall prescribe by rule the scope of the examination and provide a form for the physician to complete. A United States Department of Transportation medical certification meets the requirements of this subsection;

G. Consents to a background check, with ongoing monitoring if available, from an entity that is approved by the director. The director shall require the third party to demonstrate competency in providing accurate information prior to being approved by the director, and shall include local, state, and national databases, and access at least five years of database history when performing background checks;

H. Successfully passes a criminal background check, including:

1. No convictions, bail forfeitures, or other final adverse findings, including in civil suits or administrative hearings, pertaining to any of the following within the past five years:

a. attempting to elude the police;

b. reckless driving;

c. hit and run;

d. any alcohol- or drug-related driving crime;

e. any class A or B felony, as defined in Title 9A RCW;

f. any violent offense or serious violent offense or most serious offense, as defined in chapter 9.94A RCW;

g. a crime involving physical violence, other than those crimes in subsection H.1.e. or f. of this section, if the director determines the circumstances of the crime make the person unsafe to operate as a regional for-hire driver;

h. a crime that is directly related to the applicant's honesty and integrity, including, but not limited to, theft, burglary, and extortion, if the director determines the circumstances of the crime make the person incompatible with the duties of a regional for-hire driver; or

j. any conviction for any offense committed in another jurisdiction that includes the elements of any of the offenses listed in this subsection H.1.;

2. No convictions, bail forfeitures, or other final adverse findings, including in a civil suit or administrative hearing, pertaining to any sex offense as defined in chapter 9.94A RCW or convictions that include a special allegation of sexual motivation, including convictions for any offense committed in another jurisdiction that includes the elements of a sex offense as defined in chapter 9.94A RCW, within the past seven years;

3. Not being listed in the United States department of justice national sex offender public website, and not required to register as a sex offender; and

4. No active arrest warrant for any crime;

I. Authorizes the director to obtain the applicant's current driving history, and the results of ongoing monitoring if available, from the Washington state Department of Licensing and from an entity that is approved by the director that provides a multistate driving abstract that includes the state of Washington;

J. Successfully passes a check of the applicant's driving record, meaning: (1) the applicant's driving record has no egregious law violations within the past five years, and (2) the applicant's driving record leads the director to reasonably conclude that the applicant will operate a vehicle in a safe manner and comply with this chapter;

K. Consents to the director obtaining other information directly concerning the applicant's past conduct and general qualifications that shows the applicant's ability and skill as a regional for-hire driver and the applicant's honesty and integrity for the purposes of determining whether the applicant is suitable to operate as a regional for-hire driver;

L. Agrees to the affiliated transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency receiving, on the applicant's or licensee's behalf, general correspondence, citations, license actions, and notices of complaints from the director; and

M. Meets the criteria necessary for obtaining a regional for-hire driver's license from the city of Seattle and applies for a regional for-hire driver's license from the city of Seattle concurrently with applying for a regional for-hire driver's license from King County. (Ord. 19700 § 11, 2024).

6.65.100 Inseparability of regional for-hire driver's license. A regional for-hire driver's license issued by King County and a regional for-hire driver's license issued by the city of Seattle to the same individual shall be considered one inseparable regional for-hire driver's license. (Ord. 19700 § 12, 2024).

6.65.110 Enhanced regional for-hire driver's license. Effective September 1. 2024, an enhanced regional for-hire driver's license is a type of regional for-hire driver's license that, in addition to meeting the requirements in K.C.C. 6.65.090 for a regional for-hire driver's license, requires a driver to consent to and successfully pass a fingerprint-based background check, with ongoing monitoring if available, from an entity that is approved by the director, consistent with the criteria in K.C.C. 6.65.090.H. (Ord. 19700 § 13, 2024).

6.65.120 Inseparability of enhanced regional for-hire driver's licenses. An enhanced regional for-hire driver's license issued by King County and an enhanced regional for-hire driver's license issued by the city of Seattle to the same individual shall be considered one inseparable enhanced regional for-hire driver's license. (Ord. 19700 § 14, 2024).

6.65.130 Temporary license. Pending final action on a regional for-hire driver's license application, the director may issue a temporary regional for-hire driver’s license when the review of an application is anticipated to be longer than two days. A temporary regional for-hire driver’s license shall be issued for a period up to sixty days unless extended by the director. (Ord. 19700 § 15, 2024).

6.65.140 Other considerations. In considering an application for a regional for-hire driver’s license, the director may consider any other information that may lead the director to reasonably conclude that the applicant will not operate a vehicle in a safe manner or comply with this chapter. The director shall reject an application if it has a material misstatement or omission. (Ord. 19700 § 16, 2024).

6.65.150 Effect of application denial and license revocation.

A. An applicant whose application for a regional for-hire driver's license was denied shall:

1. Be ineligible to reapply for a regional for-hire driver's license until the date specified in the final notice of denial; and

2. Not reapply for a regional for-hire driver's license that was denied until correction of the deficiency on which the denial was based is deemed acceptable by the director.

B. A regional for-hire driver whose regional for-hire driver's license was revoked shall be ineligible to reapply for a regional for-hire driver's license until the date specified in the final notice of revocation. (Ord. 19700 § 17, 2024).

6.65.160 Regional for-hire driver operation - requirements. A regional for-hire driver shall:

A. Have in the driver's possession and available upon request of the director at any time the driver is operating a taxicab or for-hire vehicle:

1. A valid driver's license;

2. The vehicle's registration;

3. Proof of insurance as required by this chapter; and

4. A valid regional for-hire driver's license, which shall also be on display in the vehicle and visible to passengers as prescribed by the director;

B. Ensure that the vehicle's medallion plate or decal is valid and is displayed as required;

C. Ensure the lights, brakes, tires, steering, seat belts, any system relied on for safe operation, taximeter, and other vehicle equipment are working properly prior to each shift and while operating;

D. Maintain the vehicle interior and exterior, including exterior markings, in clean and good repair;

E. Allow the director to inspect the vehicle without prior notice at any reasonable time or place;

F. At all times while operating a taxicab or for-hire vehicle, be signed into at least one dispatch system, smart taximeter system, or application dispatch system provided by the affiliated transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency;

G. Provide service to passengers in wheelchairs before any other passengers when operating wheelchair accessible vehicles;

H. Activate the taximeter or smart taximeter at the beginning of each paid trip, whether the fare is computed by the taximeter, smart taximeter, application dispatch system, contract, or flat rate, and deactivate the taximeter or smart taximeter upon completion of the trip. The beginning of a trip is the point where the passenger is seated, and any materials are stowed, and the forward motion of the vehicle begins;

I. Ensure that the taximeter or smart taximeter display is visible to passengers at all times while operating a taxicab;

J. If the fare for a trip is an upfront fare or a flat rate fare, confirm the fare with the passenger before beginning the trip;

K. Operate the taxicab or for-hire vehicle with due regard for the safety, comfort, and convenience of passengers and always provide passengers with professional and courteous service. The driver shall not use threatening behavior or offensive language, expressions, or gestures to any person while operating;

L. If requested, be willing to assist a passenger entering or exiting the vehicle and placing luggage or packages that are under fifty pounds in and out of the vehicle. Upon request for this assistance, a driver must so assist a passenger or otherwise ensure the passenger's assistance request is fulfilled;

M. Use the most direct or most expedient available route on all trips unless the passenger specifically requests to change the route;

N. Record all trips, process all payments, and issue a receipt for all payments through a dispatch or payment system provided by the transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency;

O. Be able to provide a reasonable and prudent amount of change, and, if correct change is not available, no additional charge may be made to the passenger in attempting to secure the change;

P. If dispatched by a transportation network company's application dispatch system and allowed by the transportation network company, accept payment of fares via cash payment for any trip dispatched through a transportation network company's application dispatch system;

Q. At the end of each trip, check the vehicle for any article or articles that are left behind by passenger or passengers and promptly secure the article or articles and report the found article or articles to the transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency;

R. Comply with any license action, citation, or director order, and pay any penalties issued under this chapter that are either not appealed or are upheld after review;

S. Immediately surrender the vehicle medallion plate or decal in a manner approved by the director when the vehicle medallion is temporarily deactivated or revoked;

T. Comply with policies and procedures established by the transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency to meet the requirements of this chapter and to ensure passenger satisfaction;

U. Comply with applicable business license requirements for any jurisdiction for which the driver operates; and

V. Meet any other requirement established by the director by rule. (Ord. 19700 § 18, 2024).

6.65.170 Regional for-hire driver operation - prohibitions generally. A regional for-hire driver shall not:

A. Transport either more passengers than the number of seat belts available or more luggage than the vehicle capacity will safely and legally allow;

B. Operate a taxicab or for-hire vehicle that does not have the rate on display as prescribed by the director by rule;

C. Operate a taxicab or for-hire vehicle that is unaffiliated with a taxicab association, for-hire vehicle company, transitional regional dispatch agency, or regional dispatch agency;

D. Use a personal electronic device while driving a motor vehicle on a public roadway, unless consistent with RCW 46.61.672;

E. Operate a taxicab or for-hire vehicle under the influence of any alcohol, narcotics, drugs, or prescription or over-the-counter medication that impairs the 'driver's ability to operate a taxicab or for-hire vehicle or in any way jeopardizes the safety or security of passengers or the public;

F. Knowingly possess illegal substances or open containers of alcohol while operating a taxicab or for-hire vehicle;

G. Operate a taxicab or for-hire vehicle for more than fourteen hours in any twenty-four-hour period. Thereafter, the regional for-hire driver shall not operate a taxicab or for-hire vehicle until eight consecutive hours have elapsed. Stand-by time does not count towards the fourteen-hour limit. For the purposes of this subsection, "stand-by time" includes any time the regional for-hire driver is available for hire but is not physically in the vehicle;

H. Use the taxicab or for-hire vehicle, or allow the taxicab or for-hire vehicle to be used, in the commission of any crime;

I. Refuse to transport in the taxicab or for-hire vehicle, cancel a dispatched call, or end a trip in progress because of:

1. Any passenger's wheelchair or other mobility device that can be folded and safely placed in either the passenger or trunk compartment of the vehicle;

2. A service or assistive animal, as defined in K.C.C. chapter 12.22; or

3. A passenger's groceries, packages, or luggage;

J. Refuse to transport any person except when:

1. The driver has already been dispatched on another call;

2. The passenger is acting in a disorderly, threatening, or suspicious, manner, or otherwise causes the driver to reasonably believe that the driver's health or safety, or that of others, may be endangered;

3. The passenger cannot, upon request, show ability to pay the fare;

4. The passenger refuses to state a specific destination upon entering the taxicab or for-hire vehicle; or

5. The trip covers more than one hundred miles or includes traveling over a mountain pass or on a ferry;

K. Smoke or allow passengers to smoke in the vehicle;

L. Ask, demand, or collect any rate or fare other than as specified on the taximeter, smart taximeter, or application dispatch system;

M. Solicit passengers from anywhere other than the driver's seat or standing within direct view of the taxicab or for-hire vehicle, and never solicit when the taxicab or for-hire vehicle is in motion. The driver of a taxicab or for-hire vehicle shall not use any other person to solicit passengers;

N. Park a taxicab or for-hire vehicle in a marked passenger load zone, truck load zone, commercial load zone, or charter bus zone; except that a driver may drop off or pick up passengers in a passenger load zone; and

O. Misstate or omit a material fact on any document provided to the director, or alter any document or record provided to or issued by the director. (Ord. 19700 § 19, 2024).

6.65.180 Regional for-hire driver operation - prohibitions in a taxicab zone. A. Designated taxicab zones are for taxicabs only. A regional for-hire driver shall not do any of the following in a taxicab zone:

1. Leave the taxicab unattended in a taxicab zone for more than fifteen minutes;

2. Occupy a taxicab zone unless operating a taxicab that is available for hire;

3. Perform engine maintenance or repairs on the taxicab while in a taxicab zone;

4. Refuse a request for service because of the driver's position in line at a taxicab zone; a passenger may select any taxicab in the line; or

5. Use a taxicab zone while under suspension from that taxicab zone.

B. A violation of this section may result in a suspension from one or more taxicab zones, in addition to penalties as authorized in K.C.C. 6.65.430. (Ord. 19700 § 20, 2024).

6.65.185 Seattle-Tacoma International Airport operation - additional standards. Regional for-hire drivers operating at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport shall adhere to the following additional standards:

A. Load or unload passengers at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport only as permitted by the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport Schedule of Rules and Regulations;

B. When available for hire, shall not drive, be in control of, or operate a taxicab or for-hire vehicle to pick up passengers on Seattle-Tacoma International Airport property without the vehicle displaying a Port of Seattle authorized permit; and

C. Not solicit passengers on Seattle-Tacoma International Airport property, unless the driver is in the driver's seat or standing within direct view of the vehicle, and the vehicle is safely and legally parked. (Ord. 19700 § 21, 2024).

6.65.190 Medallion system.

A. As of December 18, 2023, every valid taxicab and for-hire vehicle medallion issued by the city of Seattle shall be issued a county medallion reciprocity endorsement. The medallion and medallion reciprocity endorsement shall be inseparable. A medallion cannot be issued, renewed, transferred, or temporarily deactivated separately from the medallion reciprocity endorsement. Any restriction imposed on a medallion through a license action applies with equal force to the corresponding medallion reciprocity endorsement. Any restriction imposed on a medallion reciprocity endorsement through a license action applies with equal force to the corresponding medallion.

B. Effective September 1, 2024, an existing medallion issued by the county and an existing medallion issued by the city of Seattle and that were previously required to be used with the same vehicle may be separated to be used with different vehicles or to be transferred. Such medallions used with the same vehicle in both King County and the city of Seattle may be separated at any time by the medallion owner by requesting such separation on a form or in a format established by the director. This provision applies to all medallion types.

C. The owner of a taxicab or for-hire vehicle medallion may use the medallion as collateral to secure a loan from a bank or any other financial institution. Medallion owners shall file with the director the name of any and all lienholders, on forms furnished by the director. The collateral shall be described as "King County taxicab medallion" or, until March 31, 2026, "King County for-hire vehicle medallion," and shall include the medallion number. Within thirty days of the date of creation of the pledge, lien, or security interest, the party that holds the pledge, lien, or security interest, shall record the same as required by state law and provide a copy of the recording to the director.

D. The interest of a medallion owner may be suspended or revoked for any reason enumerated in this chapter for the suspension or revocation of a medallion.

E. Upon a final order of medallion revocation, when all appellate proceedings, if any, have been concluded, the medallion may only be transferred as prescribed by this section, K.C.C. 6.65.230, and as prescribed by the director by rule.

F. In accepting a medallion, medallion owners waive any and all liability, claims, actions, suits, loss, costs, expense judgments, attorneys' fees, or damages of every kind and description resulting directly or indirectly from any act or omission of the county, its officials, officers, employees, and agents regarding the valuation or devaluation of the medallion.

G. The county assumes no liability for any devaluation of the medallion, including but not limited to any devaluation due to regulatory action or market forces.

H. Except for an owner awarded a new taxicab or for-hire vehicle medallion that is required to meet the minimum operating requirements in K.C.C. 6.65.420.H., a medallion owner may voluntarily transfer or sell a medallion in accordance with this section, K.C.C. 6.65.230, and as prescribed by the director by rule.

I. Medallion owners may lease an interest in the medallion as prescribed by director's rule. A leased medallion shall not be subleased to another party. (Ord. 19700 § 22, 2024).

6.65.200 Medallions - allowable number.

A. Unless adjusted by the director by rule, the maximum number of taxicab medallions is one thousand three hundred. Wheelchair accessible taxicab medallions do not count towards the maximum number.

B. On April 1, 2026, all for-hire vehicle medallions shall become taxicab medallions. The medallion system for for-hire vehicles shall no longer be in effect after March 31, 2026.

C. The director may issue additional taxicab medallions only as specified by this section.

D. The director may adjust by rule the maximum number of taxicab medallions and shall periodically determine the need for additional taxicab service. Factors to be considered to adjust the maximum number of taxicab medallions or to issue additional taxicab medallions include:

1. Coordination with the city of Seattle to promote a regional licensing and regulatory framework for for-hire transportation services;

2. Growth in population, tourists, and other visitors to the area;

3. The quality of existing taxicab service as indicated by passenger satisfaction, including wheelchair accessible vehicle service, if applicable;

4. A comparison of actual average taxicab response times to optimum average taxicab response times established by the director;

5. Availability and quality of for-hire transportation services in underserved communities, including areas of lower population density;

6. Available data of medallion sales on the private market;

7. Analysis of drivers' ability to earn a living wage, including the impact of adjusting the number of medallions on driver income; and

8. Other indications of market demand.

E.1. If the director determines that issuance of additional taxicab medallions is warranted, such medallions shall be issued as follows:

a. a competitive request for proposals and award process under which medallions will be issued to medallion applicants whose proposals demonstrate that they are most able to meet the needs of the public in providing taxicab service by meeting qualifications prepared by the director that are not in conflict with the general provisions of this chapter;

b. a lottery of qualified medallion applicants; or

c. a combination of both procedures as prescribed by the director by rule.

2. Regardless of the method used, the director shall consider a medallion applicant's driving record, driving experience, current or previous medallion ownership, and any additional qualifications required by the director.

3. If issuing a wheelchair accessible taxicab medallion, the director may additionally consider the medallion applicant's qualifying experience transporting individuals with disabilities who require any type of mobility device, including a manual or motorized wheelchair, and any additional qualifications required by the director.

F. Any additional taxicab medallion shall only be issued to a medallion applicant who is an individual. No corporation, limited liability company, or partnership shall obtain any medallion held by an individual until the expiration of three years following the original date of issuance to that individual; however, additional taxicab medallions may be issued to and be held by the following business entities:

1. Corporations held by a single shareholder, except that the taxicab must be personally operated by the single shareholder for a period of three years from the date of issuance of the medallion and the ownership of the shares of the corporation cannot be changed within the three-year period. Any change of ownership of shares of the corporation shall result in revocation of the medallion; or

2. Limited liability companies comprised of a single member, except that the taxicab must be personally operated by the single member for a period of three years from the date of issuance of the medallion and no change of membership may take place within the three-year period. Any change of membership of the limited liability company shall result in revocation of the medallion.

G. For three years following the date of issuance of an additional taxicab medallion or an additional wheelchair accessible taxicab medallion in accordance with subsections E. and J. of this section, the medallion owner must personally drive the taxicab for at least thirty hours per week for a minimum of forty weeks per year. If the medallion owner fails to fulfill this minimum operating requirement in any one-year period within the three-year period following the date of issuance, the medallion shall be revoked and shall not be eligible for transfer by its original owner. The medallion shall be transferable upon the completion of the three-year operating requirement.

H. A medallion plate, medallion decal, or other indicia issued to a medallion owner shall remain the property of the director.

I. A medallion owner may seek director approval to permanently convert a medallion to a wheelchair accessible taxicab medallion. Such a conversion shall be subject to conditions prescribed by the director by rule. Conversion of a taxicab medallion to a wheelchair accessible taxicab medallion is not considered the issuance of an additional medallion. A medallion that has been operated for three or more years that is permanently converted to a wheelchair accessible taxicab medallion shall be transferrable and not subject to a new three-year operating requirement.

J. As an alternative to the process outlined in subsection E. of this section, the director may issue King County medallion reciprocity endorsements to medallion applicants selected by the city of Seattle to be issued a city of Seattle taxicab medallion or a city of Seattle wheelchair accessible taxicab medallion, as applicable. (Ord. 19700 § 23, 2024).

6.65.210 Temporary deactivation and retirement of a taxicab or for-hire vehicle medallion.

A. Effective September 1, 2024, any time a medallion is not operating for sixty days or more, the medallion owner, or an authorized representative, shall file a notice of temporary deactivation with the director in a manner determined by the director. A temporary deactivation may be for any reason, including, but not limited to, an inoperable or unavailable vehicle, a temporary lack of affiliation with an agency, an extended leave of absence, or owner convenience.

B. When a notice of temporary deactivation is filed with the director:

1. If the medallion is not expired, the deactivation period shall not exceed twelve consecutive months from the date the temporary deactivation notice is filed with the director;

2. If the medallion is expired, the deactivation period shall not be more than twelve consecutive months from September 1, 2024, or from the date the medallion expired, whichever is longer; and

3. If the medallion is expired or expires during the temporary deactivation period, the medallion renewal process must be completed before the medallion can be reactivated.

C. The director may initiate a temporary deactivation when the director becomes aware that a medallion has not been operating for sixty days or more.

D. For medallions revoked, relinquished, or otherwise held by the director after January 31, 2015, and before September 1, 2024, the temporary deactivation period shall begin on September 1, 2024. A medallion previously revoked, relinquished, or otherwise held by the director, must be renewed within twelve months of September 1, 2024.

E. If a medallion owner fails to reactivate the medallion within twelve months from the effective date of the temporary deactivation, the director shall issue a notice of retirement to the medallion owner. Within sixty days of the notice of retirement, the medallion owner may reactivate or transfer the medallion. If the medallion is not reactivated or transferred within sixty days of the notice of retirement, the medallion is retired and an order of retirement will be issued by the director. The medallion owner may appeal the order of retirement in accordance with K.C.C. 6.65.450. Failure to appeal means the order of retirement issued by the director is final. The taxicab or for-hire vehicle medallion plate or decal that has been retired shall be returned to the director within fifteen days of the final order of retirement, or if the order is appealed and affirmed, within fifteen days after all appellate proceedings have concluded.

F. Medallions issued via a lottery or request for proposals shall not be transferrable until the obligations [under]* K.C.C. 6.65.200.G. of this ordinance have been met.

G. Vehicle insurance is not required if a medallion is temporarily deactivated. The medallion owner must provide proof of vehicle insurance when reactivating the medallion. (Ord. 19700 § 24, 2024).

6.65.220 Taxicab and for-hire vehicle - owner surrender of vehicle medallion. It is unlawful to operate a taxicab or for-hire vehicle with a medallion that is suspended or revoked. The operation of the taxicab or for-hire vehicle must cease, and the medallion owner shall immediately surrender the medallion plate or medallion decal to the director. (Ord. 19700 § 25, 2024).

6.65.230 Taxicab and for-hire vehicle medallion transfer. Except for an owner subject to the minimum operating requirements in K.C.C. 6.65.200.G., a taxicab or for-hire vehicle medallion may be transferred subject to the following restrictions and conditions:

A. The medallion and medallion reciprocity endorsement are inseparable and must be transferred together;

B. There are no pending enforcement actions or penalties, fees, or surcharges owed that were issued under this chapter, no unexpired vehicle lease agreements, and no unexpired medallion lease agreements;

C. Transfers of medallions with liens filed with the director will not be approved unless the medallion owner provides proof that the lien is paid or the lienholder provides written approval of the transfer. Only liens filed with the director according to K.C.C. 6.65.190.C. will be considered in the transfer review;

D. The medallion owner and proposed transferee shall submit a notice of transfer on a form or in a format prescribed by the director;

E. The proposed transferee shall meet all requirements in K.C.C. 6.65.230. A transfer shall not become effective, and the proposed transferee may not operate the taxicab or for-hire vehicle, until the proposed transferee receives the medallion plate or medallion decal; and

F. Upon the final order of revocation, when all appellate proceedings, if any, have been concluded, a medallion owner shall immediately surrender the taxicab or for-hire vehicle medallion plate or decal to the director. Effective September 1, 2024, except for revocation according to K.C.C. 6.65.190.G., the medallion owner has sixty days from the final order of revocation to transfer the medallion; however, medallions subject to a lien as evidenced by the filing requirement in K.C.C. 6.65.190.C. cannot transfer unless the medallion owner provides proof that the lien is paid or the lienholder provides written approval of the transfer. If the medallion is not transferred within the sixty days, the medallion shall be deemed permanently retired, the lien, if any, is removed, and the director shall not reissue the medallion. (Ord. 19700 § 26, 2024).

6.65.240 Estate distribution of a taxicab or for-hire vehicle medallion.

A. When a taxicab or for-hire vehicle medallion or stock in a corporation owning such a medallion is distributed from an estate to a beneficiary by a court of law, the transferee shall submit to the director the court order directing the county to transfer the medallion to the beneficiary. Notwithstanding the court order, and except as allowed under subsection B. of this section, transfer shall not become effective, unless and until the transferee meets all requirements in K.C.C. 6.65.230.

B. An executor or administrator may continue the operation of a taxicab or for-hire vehicle only with prior written approval of the director. The executor or administrator shall apply for such approval. (Ord. 19700 § 27, 2024).

6.65.250 Taxicab and for-hire vehicle - medallion and medallion reciprocity endorsement expiration and renewal. All medallions shall expire one year from the date of issuance. Medallions and their associated medallion reciprocity endorsements are inseparable and expire and renew concurrently. Unless an appeal is pending, no medallion may be renewed unless all outstanding penalties owed under this chapter have been paid. (Ord. 19700 § 28, 2024).

6.65.260 Taxicab and for-hire vehicle initial and annual medallion application requirements.

A. All for-hire vehicles must be operated as taxicabs using a smart taximeter system and must be affiliated with a regional dispatch agency that has a valid regional dispatch agency license by a date consistent with K.C.C. 6.65.330.

B. It is unlawful to operate a taxicab or for-hire vehicle without first having obtained, for each and every vehicle so used, a taxicab medallion or for-hire vehicle medallion issued in accordance with this section.

C. The taxicab or for-hire vehicle medallion application shall include the following:

1. Applicant type:

a. If the applicant is an individual, the applicant's full name, business address, primary telephone number, primary email address, and date of birth, which must be at least eighteen years before the date of application; or

b. If the applicant is a corporation, limited liability company, partnership, or other entity:

(1) the applicant's name, business address, telephone number, and state of incorporation or partnership registration; and

(2) the full name, title, date of birth, which must be at least eighteen years before the date of application, business address, and phone number for each individual representative who is vested with authority to manage or direct the affairs of the legal entity or to bind the legal entity in dealings with third parties;

2. Vehicle information including: the make; model; year, which shall be no more than fifteen model years before the application date unless otherwise adjusted by the director by rule; engine type; vehicle identification number; Washington state license plate number; and vehicle number if previously assigned by the director. The vehicle must be a passenger car as defined in RCW 46.04.382;

3. Certificate or other proof of affiliation with a transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency;

4. Insurance policy as required by this chapter;

5. A copy of the state of Washington vehicle registration or confirmation of vehicle registration on a form or in a format accepted by the director. The applicant does not need to be the registered owner;

6. Certificate of safety based on a vehicle safety inspection conducted annually by an approved mechanic; and

7. Any other information the director may reasonably require in order to make a licensing decision, take enforcement action, or perform any other duties of the director authorized by this chapter.

D. The director shall reject a medallion application if it has a material misstatement or omission.

E. The application and information required in this section must also be completed and supplied during each annual medallion renewal. The director will not process a medallion application if any required information or documentation is missing or incomplete. Completed applications and copies of required documentation shall be provided to the director by the medallion owner, or the transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency on behalf of the medallion owner.

F. If any of the information in the application changes, including if it ceases to be true or is superseded in any way by new information, the applicant shall within seven days of the change:

1. Inform the director, or

2. Inform the transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency, if the application was submitted on behalf of the applicant.

G. A medallion shall not be renewed if the medallion does not have an associated vehicle or if the vehicle to which the medallion is associated is not affiliated with a transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency. In such cases, the owner of the medallion shall initiate a temporary deactivation with the director. (Ord. 19700 § 29, 2024).

6.65.270 Insurance requirements.

A. At all times while operating as a taxicab or for-hire vehicle, there must be valid insurance as described in this section. All insurance policies shall either comply with chapter 46.72 RCW and have underinsured motorist coverage of at least one hundred thousand dollars per person and three hundred thousand dollars per accident; or comply with the coverage amounts required by RCW 46.72B.180. All insurance policies that cover a vehicle while operating as a taxicab or for-hire vehicle and for which a medallion is required shall be filed with the director. The insurance policy shall:

1. Be issued by an admitted carrier in the state of Washington with an A.M. Best Rating of not less than B- and be not less than A.M. Best Financial Size Category VII or show evidence to the director of surplus lines from an insurer with an A.M. Best Rating of not less than B and be not less than A.M. Best Financial Size Category VII;

2. Name King County, its officers, officials, agents, and employees as an additional insured on the insurance policy;

3. Provide that the insurer will notify the director, in writing, of cancellation for nonpayment of premium no less than ten days before the cancellation takes effect, or of cancellation for any other reason no less than thirty days before the cancellation or nonrenewal takes effect. If an insurance policy is cancelled or not renewed, proof of a new policy must be filed before the expiration of the policy. The taxicab or for-hire vehicle is automatically suspended and cannot operate until coverage is secured;

4. Not include aggregate limits, named driver requirements or exclusions, or radius restrictions. Other limitations or restrictions beyond standard insurance services office business auto policy form are subject to approval by the director; and

5. Be in effect at any time the taxicab or for-hire vehicle is operating.

B. When a taxicab or for-hire vehicle is dispatched by a transportation network company, the taxicab's or for-hire vehicle's insurance covers that trip, unless the transportation network company maintains an insurance policy that includes trips provided by a taxicab or for-hire vehicle.

C. The director may suspend or suspend and modify any requirements of this section when no other viable insurance options are available to the industry. (Ord. 19700 § 30, 2024).

6.65.280 Vehicle safety inspections.

A. The vehicle safety inspection and certificate of safety required by K.C.C. 6.65.260.C.6. shall be provided by an approved mechanic and shall certify that the following items on taxicab or for-hire vehicle are mechanically sound and fit for driving:

1. Foot brakes;

2. Emergency brakes;

3. Steering mechanism;

4. Windshield;

5. Rear window and other glass;

6. Windshield wipers;

7. Headlights;

8. Taillights;

9. Turn indicator lights;

10. Stop lights;

11. Front seat adjustment mechanism;

12. Doors, including that the doors properly open, close, and lock;

13. Horn;

14. Speedometer;

15. Bumpers;

16. Muffler and exhaust system, except for where vehicle propulsion systems emit zero emissions such as in battery electric vehicles;

17. Condition of tires, including tread depth;

18. Interior rear view mirror and exterior side view mirrors;

19. Safety belts and air bags for driver and a passenger or passengers; and

20. Other items reasonably required by the director.

B. If the vehicle is sold, the certificate of safety remains valid until the next medallion renewal date.

C. An approved mechanic who performs vehicle safety inspections must not have a conflict of interest as defined by the director by rule. The director may remove an approved mechanic from the list maintained by the director for a violation of this chapter or rules prescribed by the director or due to substantiated complaints from drivers.

D. Vehicles shall be maintained consistent with the service standards recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. The vehicle owner and driver shall keep all maintenance and service records for all vehicles owned and used for for-hire transportation services for three years.

E. The vehicle owner and driver shall remedy a vehicle defect in a manner consistent with a vehicle safety recall notice issued by the vehicle manufacturer and/or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, after being notified of the recall by the vehicle manufacturer, the driver's affiliated agency or company, or the director.

F. The vehicle owner and driver shall ensure that all requirements in this section are met and continually maintained.

G. A vehicle that has been in a collision and determined by the insurance adjuster to be a total wreck or total loss shall not be placed back in service until an approved mechanic with a current certification in structural analysis and damage repair or airbags has verified that there is no damage to the vehicle frame and that the airbag system is working properly. The inspection is separate from the vehicle safety inspection completed each year.

H. The director shall summarily suspend a medallion and place a vehicle out of service if the vehicle fails a vehicle safety inspection or the director determines that a violation of this section is an immediate safety hazard and it is necessary to prevent a clear, substantial and imminent hazard to life, safety, or property. (Ord. 19700 § 31, 2024).

6.65.290 Wheelchair accessible vehicles. In addition to meeting all vehicle standards established in this chapter, the following requirements apply to wheelchair accessible vehicles:

A. The vehicle must conform to the vehicle accessibility requirements of the regulations of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Title 49 C.F.R. Chapter 38, Subpart B, as amended;

B. Taxicabs and for-hire vehicles may not convert to wheelchair accessible vehicles without director approval. The director may approve applications for conversion consistent with criteria prescribed by rule;

C. A vehicle operating with a wheelchair accessible taxicab medallion must be a wheelchair accessible vehicle; and

D. Before being placed into service and annually thereafter, a separate inspection of the vehicle and any installed accessibility equipment must occur. In addition to checking for conformance with vehicle accessibility requirements in accordance with this subsection, the vehicle driver or drivers may be required to pass a practical demonstration of proper wheelchair securement techniques during this inspection. If a driver of the vehicle is unable to demonstrate proper securement techniques during this inspection, the director shall suspend the driver's regional for-hire driver's license wheelchair accessible vehicle endorsement and may require the driver to undergo additional training before returning to try the practical demonstration again. A wheelchair accessible vehicle shall not pass the inspection unless the driver is able to pass a practical demonstration of proper wheelchair securement techniques. Upon passing the practical demonstration of proper wheelchair securement techniques, the driver's regional for-hire driver's license wheelchair accessible vehicle endorsement will no longer be suspended and is effective.

E. If prescribed by the director by rule, affiliated wheelchair accessible vehicles shall participate in a director-approved dispatch system for wheelchair accessible trips. (Ord. 19700 § 32, 2024).

6.65.300 Electrification of taxicabs and for-hire vehicles.

A. The director may establish a rule to determine the viability of electric vehicles for taxicab and for-hire vehicle owners and regional for-hire drivers and, if viable, create incentives to promote the use of electric vehicles. When determining electric vehicle viability for for-hire transportation services, the director shall consider, but not be limited to, the following factors:

1. The price of new or used electric vehicles compared to new and used nonelectric vehicles;

2. If the mileage range for new and used electric vehicles meets the needs of full-time for-hire transportation services;

3. The availability of recharging infrastructure in locations and at times that are convenient for regional for-hire drivers, and if recharging time conflicts with the regional for-hire driver’s need to operate the vehicle; and

4. If the vehicle life cycle for existing and new electric vehicles creates an undue burden for the vehicle owner or regional for-hire driver.

B. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to require or restrict a regional for-hire driver's use of electric vehicles for for-hire transportation services. (Ord. 19700 § 33, 2024).

6.65.310 Taxicab and for-hire vehicle operation - requirements.

A. A taxicab or for-hire vehicle with a valid medallion may operate if the taxicab or for-hire vehicle:

1. Is operated by a driver with a valid regional for-hire 'driver’s license issued under this chapter;

2. Has insurance as required by this chapter;

3. Displays, in a location specified by the director, a current taxicab or for-hire vehicle medallion plate or decal issued by the director; however, a licensed taxicab or for-hire vehicle does not require a transportation network company endorsement decal when dispatched by a transportation network company;

4. Displays the vehicle medallion number and name of the affiliated transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency on the exterior of the vehicle and displays any rates that apply to a trip not requested via an application dispatch system, as prescribed by the director by rule;

5. Is equipped to accept electronic payment of fares and issue receipts;

6. When operating with a taxicab medallion, is equipped with an approved and properly functioning taximeter or smart taximeter and is connected to a mobile data terminal to accept electronic payment of fares and issue receipts;

7. Displays any passenger information prescribed by the director by rule;

8. Displays, on or in the vehicle, signs, including notices, announcements, pictures, advertisements, or other messages that do not create a visible distraction or safety hazard for the driver of the vehicle or for other vehicles on the road. The director may prescribe by rule the manner in which the signs may be displayed, including, but not limited to, requirements concerning the number of signs per vehicle, placement on or within vehicles, size limitations, and devices or mechanisms used to display the signs;

9. Is equipped with a monitored duress alarm approved by the director in accordance with specifications prescribed by the director by rule;

10. Is equipped with a monitored vehicle tracking system, which may be part of an approved smart taximeter system or application dispatch system, in accordance with specifications prescribed by the director by rule;

11. Maintains a continuous connection between the taximeter and the dispatch system or between the taximeter and the application dispatch system;

12. Operates on a dispatch system of the affiliated transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency and may also operate on one or more approved application dispatch systems, including those operated by a licensed transportation network company;

13. Is affiliated with a transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency and adopts the uniform color scheme of that transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency unless otherwise authorized by the director. The director may prescribe by rule any additional criteria for vehicle colors and markings;

14. Meets current taximeter standards and has installed and uses a smart taximeter when a smart taximeter system is implemented by the affiliated regional dispatch agency;

15. Is compliant with policies and procedures established by the transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency to meet the requirements of this chapter and ensure passenger satisfaction; and

16. Meets any other requirement established by the director by rule;

B. To operate a taxicab or for-hire vehicle, the medallion owner or vehicle owner shall:

1. Not have any outstanding monetary penalties issued under this chapter; and

2. Inform the director and the prior transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency within five business days of the vehicle affiliating with a new transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency.

C. A citation, license action, or both issued for a violation of this K.C.C. 6.65.310 shall be issued to the medallion owner, the medallion lessee, the person operating the vehicle, or any combination thereof, as appropriate. (Ord. 19700 § 34, 2024).

6.65.320 Taxicab and for-hire vehicle - vehicle lease requirements.

A. All lease agreements for taxicabs or for-hire vehicles shall be in writing, and the lessor shall file the original lease agreement with the director prior to the effective date of the lease in a manner specified by rule adopted by the director.

B. If a change of transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency is made, any existing vehicle lease must be filed with the new agency at the time of the change.

C. The lease amount charged to a lessee shall not exceed the maximum amount established by rule adopted by the director. In determining the maximum lease amount, if any, the director shall consider vehicle purchase prices, the cost of insurance premiums, fuel costs, and variations in the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U), for the Seattle area, evaluated over a twenty-four month time period preceding the determination of the lease amount, and may consider any other factors that may affect the market for taxicab or for-hire vehicle leases or that may affect the provision of for-hire transportation services. Costs already factored into the lease amount shall not be charged to the driver as an additional amount.

D. A vehicle lessee shall not sublease a taxicab or for-hire vehicle. (Ord. 19700 § 35, 2024).

6.65.330 Transition of taxicab associations and for-hire vehicle companies to regional dispatch agencies.

A. Taxicab associations and for-hire vehicle companies must transition to become regional dispatch agencies by March 31, 2026.

B. As of December 18, 2023, a valid King County taxicab association license or for-hire vehicle company registration shall automatically become a transitional regional dispatch agency license and shall expire on March 31, 2024. As of December 18, 2023, every taxicab association with a valid license issued by the city of Seattle and every for-hire vehicle company recognized by the city of Seattle shall be issued a transitional regional dispatch agency license by King County and shall expire on March 31, 2024. A transitional regional dispatch agency license or a regional dispatch agency license permits the licensee to opd reerate in King County and the city of Seattle. New taxicab association licenses shall not be issued and new for-hire vehicle companies shall not be registered after December 18, 2023.

C. Upon initial license renewal, a transitional regional dispatch agency shall submit for director approval a transition plan on a form provided by the director for adopting a smart taximeter system. The transition plan must include a clear process for adopting a smart taximeter system by no later than March 31, 2026. The director may grant an extension of the deadline for implementing a smart taximeter system for up to twelve months based upon consideration of the following nonexclusive factors:

1. Previous efforts of a transitional regional dispatch agency to implement a smart taximeter system in its fleet of affiliated vehicles;

2. Costs and availability of a smart taximeter system; and

3. Economic viability of operating a taxicab.

D. Transitional regional dispatch agencies seeking to continue operating beyond March 31, 2026, shall apply for a regional dispatch agency license. Unless the director approves an extension for adopting a smart taximeter system, a valid regional dispatch agency license is required to operate after March 31, 2026. (Ord. 19700 § 36, 2024).

6.65.340 Transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency license required.

A. It is unlawful for a person to operate as a regional dispatch agency without a valid regional dispatch agency license. A regional dispatch agency license is valid for one year and is not transferable. To be licensed as a regional dispatch agency, all regional dispatch agencies shall meet the criteria necessary for obtaining a regional dispatch agency license from the city of Seattle, and shall apply for a regional dispatch agency license from the city of Seattle concurrently with applying for a regional dispatch agency license from King County, and shall:

1. Apply for a license on a form approved by the director;

2. Have an identified representative authorized to make business decisions on behalf of the agency or company;

3. Adopt a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol and drug use while operating a taxicab or for-hire vehicle licensed under this chapter;

4. Adopt a policy that prohibits the agency or company, including their affiliated drivers, from discriminating against passengers or potential passengers on the basis of race; color; national origin; religious belief or affiliation; sex; disability; age; use of a service animal; sexual orientation; gender identity; or geographic beginning or endpoints of the ride, unless the trip covers more than one hundred miles or includes traveling over a mountain pass or on a ferry;

5. Have a process for receiving, tracking, and resolving passenger complaints;

6. Have and maintain a secure process for passengers to retrieve items left behind in an affiliated vehicle as soon as possible but no longer than two calendar days following the date of the trip. Such policy shall be in writing and readily accessible to passengers;

7. Have a system that enables each passenger to receive an electronic or paper receipt upon payment of the fare. A receipt shall include at least the following information:

a. the date and time the trip began and ended;

b. the medallion number for a taxicab or for-hire vehicle trip;

c. the driver's regional for-hire driver's license number or unique driver identification number;

d. the fare charged and any tip paid;

e. the transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency with which the vehicle is affiliated; and

f. a phone number, email address, or website to submit passenger feedback and inquiries to the transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency;

8. Have an approved smart taximeter system that includes the following functions:

a. is capable of metering a trip using an onboard diagnostic connection to the vehicle or the use of location tracking technology, or some combination of the two, to measure time and distance traveled;

b. has an integrated payment and receipting system that accepts credit cards and other electronic payments such as electronic taxi scrip, promotional codes, and alternative payment channels;

c. has an integrated dispatch system that:

(1) supports two-way communication between the dispatcher and the driver;

(2) is equipped with monitored vehicle tracking technology and be able to track vehicle location in real time;

(3) does not exclusively dispatch calls by phone or radio; and

(4) provides a duress alarm for the driver;

d. supports pricing based on static and dynamic market conditions;

e. has the ability to calculate an upfront fare to present to a passenger before the passenger accepts the ride;

f. is capable of notifying a passenger if a convenience fee for electronic payment, or other known fees, will be added to the fare;

g. includes driver authentication and system security features;

h. automates data collection and reporting;

i. provides geographic location information;

j. incorporates a director-approved mobility data standard for on-demand for-hire vehicles to support external integration;

k. can be used and configured for one or more regional dispatch agencies and can dispatch vehicles from one or more registered trade names;

l. if required by the director by rule, is connected to a director-approved external dispatch system for the purpose of dispatching wheelchair accessible vehicles; and

m. meets any other requirement prescribed by the director by rule; and

9. Have a driver training program, for for-hire drivers, approved by the director.

B. Prior to obtaining a regional dispatch agency license, transitional regional dispatch agencies shall comply with regional dispatch agency licensing and operating requirements in this section, except that:

1. A transitional regional dispatch agency shall not be required to have a smart taximeter system; and

2. A transitional regional dispatch agency that is affiliated with taxicabs at the time of being issued a transitional regional dispatch agency license that does not have a smart taximeter system approved by the director, shall provide a dispatch system integrated with the vehicle's taximeter for all affiliated vehicles. (Ord. 19700 § 37, 2024).

6.65.350 Inseparable licenses. A transitional regional dispatch agency license or regional dispatch agency license issued by King County and a corresponding regional dispatch agency license or transitional regional dispatch agency license issued by the city of Seattle shall be considered one inseparable license. (Ord. 19700 § 38, 2024).

6.65.360 Transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency operation - requirements.

A. At all times, a transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency shall:

1. Operate with a valid transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency license;

2. Ensure all information provided to the director does not misstate or omit material facts;

3. Inform the director in writing within seven days if any of the information provided in the transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency license application changes, including if it ceases to be true or is superseded in any way by new information;

4. Ensure any driver of an affiliated vehicle possesses a valid regional for-hire driver's license, enhanced regional for-hire driver's license, or regional for-hire driver’s license wheelchair accessible vehicle endorsement, or any combination thereof, as applicable to either the ride type or the vehicle type, or both;

5. Require affiliated vehicles to meet all requirements of this chapter, including but not limited to passing an annual vehicle safety inspection and being licensed, endorsed, and insured;

6. Notify the director in writing within seven days upon adding or removing an affiliated vehicle;

7. Require affiliated vehicles to be fully equipped as required by this chapter whenever operating as a taxicab or for-hire vehicle;

8. Accept service of general correspondence, license actions, citations, and notices of complaints on behalf of an affiliated driver or vehicle owner and forward such to the respective affiliated driver or vehicle owner;

9. Prioritize dispatch services to passengers in wheelchairs or other mobility devices when dispatching affiliated wheelchair accessible vehicles;

10. Allow passengers to indicate whether they require a wheelchair-accessible vehicle and connect passengers to those services either directly or via a weblink, application, or phone number, if no wheelchair accessible vehicles are available on the agency’s application dispatch system. The director may suspend or alter this requirement by rule if a director-approved dispatch system is established for wheelchair accessible trips;

11. Maintain a phone number, mailing address, and email address for passenger service;

12. Record all trips, process all payments, and issue a receipt for all payments through the dispatch system, a smart taximeter system, or an application dispatch system provided to affiliated drivers;

13. Comply with the data reporting requirements established in this chapter;

14. Operate only director approved application dispatch systems ;

15. Require affiliated vehicles to comply with applicable rate structures defined in this chapter;

16. Have, maintain, and monitor, while one or more affiliated vehicles are active, a duress alarm for the driver;

17. Establish and enforce operating standards for affiliated drivers and vehicles to ensure code compliance and passenger satisfaction;

18. Satisfy every request for service as long as there are affiliated taxicabs or for-hire vehicles available; except that transitional regional dispatch agencies, regional dispatch agencies, and regional for-hire drivers, that refuse service within the meaning of K.C.C. 6.65.170.J., shall not be subject to any penalties by the director, and, in the case of regional for-hire drivers, by the transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency;

19. Require affiliated vehicles to use a uniform color scheme or any associated graphics, or both, approved by the director;

20. Provide a supervisor at a taxicab zone whenever such zone is used by affiliated taxicabs if the director determines that it is necessary due to complaints received from passengers and adjacent property owners or improper use of nearby passenger load zones, truck load zones, and charter bus zones. If the transitional regional dispatch agency, or regional dispatch agency, fails to provide a supervisor as required by the director, the director may prohibit all affiliated taxicabs from using the taxicab zone;

21. Require affiliated vehicles to operate on an approved taximeter, smart taximeter system, or application dispatch system as required in this chapter;

22. Remit fares made via electronic payment to regional for-hire drivers within two business days after the ride was completed;

23. Remit fares made via electronic payment through the smart taximeter system to regional for-hire drivers in amounts not less than the full fare paid by the passenger, excluding deductions for fees agreed to in accordance with K.C.C. 6.65.370;

24. Comply with applicable business license requirements for any jurisdiction for which the transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency operates; and

25. Meet any other requirement established by the director by rule.

B. A transitional regional dispatch agency that is not affiliated with taxicabs at the time of being issued a transitional regional dispatch agency license does not need to:

1. Affiliate with taxicabs;

2. Have or operate a taximeter;

3. Comply with taximeter rates; or

4. Provide a supervisor at a taxicab zone because for-hire vehicles are not permitted to operate at a taxicab zone.

C. Persons not previously licensed as a taxicab association or registered as a for-hire vehicle company may apply for a transitional regional dispatch agency license in a manner determined by the director.

D.1. Transitional regional dispatch agencies and regional dispatch agencies shall maintain accurate and complete operational records for all affiliated vehicles and shall submit quarterly reports, in an electronic format approved by the director.

2. Reports shall include the following:

a. a total count of ride per origination ZIP Code;

b. a total count of ride per destination ZIP Code;

c. a total count of unfulfilled ride requests by ZIP Code;

d. a total count of rides provided by a wheelchair accessible vehicle by ZIP Code;

e. a total count of unfulfilled ride requests for a wheelchair accessible vehicle by ZIP Code;

f. a list of vehicle collisions; including the vehicle medallion number, regional for-hire driver's license number, and if known, whether the collision was the fault of the regional for-hire driver; and whether the collision resulted in any injuries;

g. a list of crimes committed against drivers;

h. a list of passenger complaints; and

i. any other data required by the director to ensure compliance.

3. Transitional regional dispatch agencies and regional dispatch agencies shall retain records related to the reports required under subsection D. of this section for the current year and at least the two prior calendar years. Records may be maintained electronically.

4. If a public records request is made of the county for documents that have been designated by a licensee as confidential or proprietary, the county may provide third party notice to the providing party prior to disclosure.

E. A transitional regional dispatch agency and regional dispatch agency shall store, and upon request permit the director to review, all records required by this chapter for affiliated drivers and vehicles including, but not limited to, copies of regional for-hire driver's licenses, taxicab and for-hire vehicle medallions, lists of all affiliated drivers and their affiliated vehicles, passenger feedback, new driver training records, dispatch records, and proof of vehicle insurance and vehicle registration. In addition, the transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency shall:

1. Retain records, electronically or otherwise, for the current year and at least the prior two calendar years;

2. Provide the director with any other information the director may reasonably require upon request; and

3. Timely respond to the director's request for information.

F. The director may authorize a transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency to submit regional for-hire driver's license applications on behalf of its affiliated drivers, in a manner approved by the director.

G. A transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency may maintain a rating system for drivers and passengers to rate each other following a trip. (Ord. 19700 § 39, 2024).

6.65.370 Dispatch agency, vehicle owner, medallion owner, and regional for-hire driver relations.

A. A transitional regional dispatch agency and regional dispatch agency shall put in writing all policies that affect affiliated medallion owners, vehicle owners, and regional for-hire drivers.

B. Prior to implementing or changing a policy, the transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency shall provide a copy of the draft policy to the affiliated medallion owner, vehicle owner, or regional for-hire driver, and post a copy of the draft policy in the transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency office and send via electronic transmittal a copy of the draft policy to the affiliated medallion owners, vehicle owners and regional for-hire drivers. Affiliated medallion owners, vehicle owners and regional for-hire drivers shall have a minimum of twenty days to review and provide input on the draft policy before the policy takes effect. Notwithstanding this twenty-day timeline, a policy proposed for purposes of addressing an emergent issue may be temporarily established for up to thirty days. After thirty days, medallion owners, vehicle owners, and regional for-hire drivers shall be given an opportunity to provide input before the policy may be permanently adopted.

C. A transitional regional dispatch agency and regional dispatch agency shall make known to the regional for-hire driver the amount of the fare for each trip provided by that driver. If the amount remitted to the driver is less than the full fare paid by the passenger, the remittance to the driver shall include a description detailing the deductions made. With the exception of any fees that are authorized in K.C.C. 6.65.380, a transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency may only make a deduction on trips dispatched by the agency, and the maximum allowable amount of such deduction shall be ten percent of the fare paid by the passenger.

D. A transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency shall establish a written policy governing an owner's or driver's access to the smart taximeter system, application dispatch system, the ability to work on any contracted accounts, and affiliation with the dispatch agency. The policy must include written notice of impending deactivation with sufficient information for the driver to understand the reason for deactivation, an opportunity for the owner or driver to be heard, and a period for the owner or driver to cure the violation before deactivation begins, unless the deactivation is ordered by the director or is an immediate threat to public safety. (Ord. 19700 § 40, 2024).

6.65.380 Rates.

A. Regional taximeter rates and the requirements for regional taximeter rates are as follows:

1. Unless specified elsewhere in this section or prescribed by the director by rule, it shall be unlawful for anyone operating a taxicab licensed by King County to advertise, charge, demand or receive any greater or lesser rate than the following regional taximeter rates:

a. drop charge: for passengers for first 1/9 mile: $2.60;

b. Per mile: For each 1/9 mile or fraction thereof after the first 1/9 mile: $0.30;

c. For every one minute of waiting time: $0.50, charged at $0.30 per 36 seconds. Waiting time rates are charged when taxicab speed is less than 11 miles per hour or when a taxicab driver is asked to wait for the passenger; and

d. Additional per passenger charge for more than two persons, excluding children under twelve years of age: $0.50;

2. The director may adjust or prescribe new regional taximeter rates and other rates, such as minimum fares for trips, or both, by rule. In determining new regional taximeter rates, the director may consider, among other things, the following factors:

a. operational data supplied by a regional dispatch agency or data obtained by the director through other sources, including, but not limited to, regional consumer price index data;

b. the public's need for adequate for-hire transportation services at reasonable rates consistent with the provision, maintenance, and continuation of such services;

c. the rates of other for-hire transportation providers operating in similar areas;

d. rates paid by passengers using other modes of transportation;

e. The ability of a driver to earn a living wage after covering all operating costs incurred by the owner or driver;

f. other regulatory, access, or similar fees paid by drivers to serve the transportation needs of the region; and

g. alignment with rates established by the city of Seattle;

3. Regional taximeter rates are exclusive of any per-trip fee established by the Port of Seattle and set forth in any operating agreement or tariff, a temporary fuel surcharge authorized by the director, a technology fee if authorized by the director, a convenience fee for electronic payment of fares, the wheelchair accessible surcharge, or any toll or charge established for roads, bridges, tunnels, or ferries;

4. A regional dispatch agency's affiliated taxicabs shall have regional taximeter rates programmed into its smart taximeter system. Variations from regional taximeter rates are permitted, as follows:

a. Variations from regional taximeter rates may be applied to contract trips, upfront fares, dynamic pricing, fare splitting, trip bidding, and unless prohibited by the director by rule, for flat-rate fares, minimum trip fares, or when operating on an application dispatch system;

b. The director may prescribe by rule variations from regional taximeter rates;

c. Unless prescribed otherwise by the director by rule, any variation from regional taximeter rates shall be established by a regional dispatch agency and not by an individual driver. A regional dispatch agency shall not vary a rate so that it results in a higher dispatch fee or other fee to be paid by an affiliated driver;

d. Variations from regional taximeter rates shall be applied in a manner that does not discriminate on the basis of a protected class or on the basis of the ride's geographic beginning or endpoints;

e. Unless a trip is dispatched via an application dispatch system, an upfront fare shall be based on the estimated time and distance calculated by the smart taximeter and multiplied by the regional taximeter rate. If the passenger rejects an upfront fare, the regional taximeter rates apply; and

f. If a flat rate between two defined points has been established, the flat rate shall be made available to the passenger prior to accepting a ride. Regional dispatch agencies must maintain a list of all established flat rates, including their defined origin and destination points, and make such list available for inspection upon request of the director;

5. Contract rates shall be in writing, be retained by the regional dispatch agency, and be available for inspection upon request of the director; and

6. Before a licensee may use a smart taximeter system that is integrated with an application dispatch system, the director must first determine the application dispatch system rates are transparent under subsection B. of this section.

B. The requirements for application dispatch system rates are as follows:

1. Before using an application dispatch system, or using a smart taximeter system as an application dispatch system, the transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency shall provide to the director either written documentation or a physical demonstration, or both, that the application dispatch system rate structure is transparent to the passenger prior to confirming the ride. Application dispatch system rates do not need to be filed with the director unless requested by the director. The director shall determine that the rate structure is transparent if:

a. one of the following methodologies is used:

(1) the rate by either distance or time, or a combination of distance and time, and the total fare or fare range is clearly displayed on the application dispatch system to the passenger upon requesting a ride, but before confirming the ride; or

(2) the fare for the ride is made clear to the passenger prior to confirming the ride through an alternative method deemed acceptable by the director;

b. any additional or higher charges such as tips, waiting time, tolls, or any other charges not included in subsection B.1.a. of this section shall be clearly identified by specific amount, if known, or by category, on the application dispatch system before confirming a ride; and

c. the receipt showing all charges paid by the passenger is available to the regional for-hire driver in the application dispatch system; and

2. During an abnormal disruption of the market, lasting for no longer than twelve consecutive hours in King County, a transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency shall not raise its normal range of fare more than two times the fare that would otherwise be applicable.

C. The requirements for for-hire vehicle rates are as follows:

1. For-hire vehicles must charge for service based on: a written contract; flat rate per trip or by zone; or by an hourly rate with minimum increments of thirty minutes. Flat charges by zone or hourly rate may vary by time of day. Zone boundaries shall be set by the director by rule and shall be consistent across all for-hire vehicle operators;

2. Records of all for-hire vehicle rates in place prior to implementing a smart taximeter system shall be maintained by the for-hire vehicle company and be made available for inspection upon request by the director. All rates and charges shall be conspicuously available in the interior of the for-hire vehicle;

3. The for-hire vehicle rate structure shall remain in effect until the vehicle transitions to a taxicab or March 31, 2026, whichever occurs sooner. After March 31, 2026, all for-hire vehicles shall have transitioned to taxicabs and are subject to the regional taximeter rates and application dispatch system rate requirements under this chapter; and

4. If using an application dispatch system, the director must first determine that the rates are transparent to the passenger under subsection B. of this section.

D. If the director establishes a minimum fare flat rate from one location to another location, or other rates, based on the factors identified in subsection A.2. of this section, such minimum fare, flat rate, or other rate shall apply whether the trip originated via a taximeter, a smart taximeter, or, if specified by the director, an application dispatch system. In addition to the general authority authorized in this subsection D, the following shall apply:

1. For all trips originating at SeaTac International Airport, and no later than December 31, 2024, the director shall establish a minimum fare by rule; and

2. On December 18, 2023, and expiring on December 31, 2024, or upon the date the director's rule goes into effect, whichever is earlier, in accordance with subsection D.1. of this section, the minimum fare for all trips originating at SeaTac International Airport shall be twenty dollars exclusive of any fees, surcharges, or tolls as indicated in subsection A.3. of this section. Any flat rate, dynamic price, or other method of pricing established by a transitional regional dispatch agency or a regional dispatch agency shall not be below this minimum for trips that originate at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

E. Other rate and fare requirements are as follows:

1. It is unlawful to charge additional fees for carrying individuals with disabilities and their equipment or to charge rates higher to passengers with a disability than are charged to other persons. To promote equitable access to for-hire transportation for persons with disabilities, and to ensure that wheelchair accessible vehicle service is reliably available at reasonable and predictable rates, the director may prescribe by rule fares for wheelchair accessible trips or other conditions on the rates, fares, fees, and other surcharges, or both, for providing wheelchair accessible transportation services to persons with disabilities;

2. The director is authorized to establish a fuel surcharge to the regional taximeter rate that can be added as an amount to the passenger's total fare any time the price of fuel, as published by the American Automobile Association for the local area, exceeds a fuel surcharge trigger price established in accordance with a rule adopted by the director. The surcharge shall be an amount necessary to recoup the increased fuel costs;

3. A toll or charge established for roads, bridges, tunnels, or ferries while passengers are being transported may be added to the passenger's total fare if such charges are not already included in the calculation of the fare;

4. Discriminatory charges are prohibited. For the purposes of this subsection E.4., "discriminatory charges" means policies or practices that result in higher charges or rates being applied to passengers belonging to a protected class compared to other passengers; and

5. The director may establish by rule the process and criteria associated with the director's review and approval of a technology fee that is intended to help offset the cost of implementing, operating and maintaining a smart taximeter system and that may be added to the fare for all trips subject to the taximeter rates in subsection A. of this section. (Ord. 19700 § 41, 2024).

6.65.390 Emerging for-hire transportation models.

A. The director may prescribe by rule the implementation of a discrete licensing program for emerging for-hire transportation models that do not fit within the parameters of this chapter or K.C.C. chapter 6.64.

B. The director shall determine whether a proposed business activity is an emerging for-hire transportation model that falls outside the parameters of any existing license under this chapter or K.C.C. chapter 6.64, and whether the proposed business activity presents potential risks to the public health, safety, and welfare such that, for the protection of the public, the activity must be regulated and licensed.

C. The director may grant the applicant an emerging for-hire transportation license to operate in the proposed business activity on a pilot basis.

D. The emerging for-hire transportation license shall be renewed annually for a maximum of two years, after which the license shall expire. The emerging for-hire transportation license shall be a personal privilege and not property. The emerging for-hire transportation license shall not be transferrable to another location, person, or business entity.

E. The director may attach conditions to the emerging for-hire transportation license as are reasonably required to protect the public health, safety, labor harmony, and welfare from risks including, but not limited to: adverse impact on public health; public safety; increased demand on government services; increased environmental impacts; or increased traffic or congestion in the public way. The director may attach any such conditions when the emerging for-hire transportation license is issued, or the director may attach, remove, or modify conditions at any time during the term of the license, upon reasonable notice to the licensee.

F. The director may determine at any time during the term of the emerging for-hire transportation license that the licensed business activity as conducted presents an unreasonable risk to public health and safety that cannot be mitigated, and may revoke the license, with or without prior notice. If a license is revoked, the licensee shall be given the opportunity to appear before the director for an informal hearing to introduce any evidence to appeal the revocation before the revocation is effective or no later than ten days after the revocation is effective. The director shall render a decision affirming or reversing the revocation within three business days after conclusion of the hearing. The decision of the director is final.

G. If the director determines an emerging for-hire transportation model that has been issued an emerging for-hire transportation license under a pilot program should be regulated by ordinance, the director shall convey the determination to the council prior to the expiration of the license. The license shall not be extended beyond two years unless an ordinance regulating the emerging for-hire transportation model is effective and the emerging for-hire transportation model has obtained the necessary licenses required under that ordinance. (Ord. 19700 § 42, 2024).

6.65.400 Passenger feedback. The director may establish, in conjunction with the city of Seattle and the Port of Seattle, a shared process to receive and, when appropriate, resolve passenger feedback and may communicate the process to passengers. (Ord. 19700 § 43, 2024).

6.65.410 For-hire transportation services complaint process.

A. Upon receiving a written complaint involving the conduct of a licensee, where the conduct may be a violation of this chapter, the director shall review the complaint, and if appropriate:

1. Issue a notice of complaint to the licensee, and if applicable, the affiliated transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency, advising them of the allegation or allegations made in the complaint;

2. Require the licensee and, if applicable, the affiliated transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency, to respond in writing or by contacting the issuing inspector to provide a response to the allegation or allegations in the notice of complaint within fifteen calendar days from the date the notice of complaint was issued;

3. Investigate the allegations in the written complaint and the response submitted by the licensee and if applicable, the response submitted by the transitional regional dispatch agency or regional dispatch agency representative; and

4. Make a finding as to the validity of the allegations in the written complaint. If the complaint is found to be valid the director may take enforcement action consistent with this chapter.

B. Failure to respond to a notice of complaint, either in writing or by contacting the issuing inspector, within fifteen calendar days shall constitute a waiver of the licensee's and, if applicable, the affiliated agency's right to respond to the allegations in the written complaint and shall be prima facie evidence that the allegations are valid. (Ord. 19700 § 44, 2024).

6.65.420 Violations and penalties - generally.

A. It is a violation for any person to not meet or maintain compliance with any requirement of this chapter or rule issued by the director. If the director determines that any of this chapter's requirements or rules have been violated, the director may issue:

1. A citation;

2. A license action, including denial, revocation, suspension, or summary suspension; or

3. A citation and a license action.

B. In determining a monetary penalty, the director shall consider the gravity of the violation; the number of past violations committed; the size of the business of the violator; the deterrent effect of monetary penalties; and the good faith of the violator in attempting to achieve compliance after notification of the violation.

C. A person shall pay all fees, surcharges, and monetary penalties that are owed under this chapter. If the person cited fails to pay a monetary penalty imposed under this chapter, the monetary penalty may be referred to a collection agency. The cost for the collection services will be added to the penalty. Alternatively, the director may pursue collection in any other manner allowed by law. The director shall refuse to issue a license, endorsement, or medallion at the time of renewal if the person has outstanding fees, surcharges, or monetary penalties issued under this chapter.

D. Each day a person violates or fails to comply with one of the requirements of this chapter may be considered a separate violation for which a citation, license action, or both, may be issued.

E. It is a misdemeanor for any person to violate the operating standards established in this chapter three or more times in a twelve-month period. The director may refer such a person for prosecution as an alternative to the citation and license action procedures outlined in this chapter.

F. The director may seek legal or equitable relief to enjoin any acts or practices when necessary to achieve compliance.

G. Nothing in this section limits or precludes any action or proceeding to enforce this chapter, and nothing obligates or requires the director to issue a citation or license action prior to the imposition of criminal penalties. (Ord. 19700 § 45, 2024).

6.65.430 Violations and penalties. The following monetary penalties shall be assessed or license action taken for violations of the listed sections or subsections of this chapter:

A. The director shall assess a Class A penalty, which is a one-hundred-twenty-five-dollar civil penalty for a first offense, a two-hundred-fifty-dollar penalty for a second offense, or a five-hundred-dollar civil penalty for a third or subsequent offense:

1. K.C.C. 6.65.160.A., B., D., L., N., Q., and U.;

2. K.C.C. 6.65.170.B., M., and N.;

3. K.C.C. 6.65.180.A.1., 2., and 3.;

4. K.C.C. 6.65.280.D., E., and F.; and

5. K.C.C. 6.65.310.A.4., 5., 6., 7., and 8.;

B. The director shall assess a Class B penalty, which is a two-hundred-fifty-dollar civil penalty for a first offense, a five-hundred-dollar civil penalty for a second offense, or a one-thousand-dollar civil penalty for a third or subsequent offense:

1. K.C.C. 6.65.160.C., E., F., G., H., I., J., K., and M.;

2. K.C.C. 6.65.170.A., D., G., I., J., K., and L.;

3. K.C.C. 6.65.180.A.4. and 5.;

4. K.C.C. 6.65.310.A.3., 9., 10., 11., 12., 13., 14., and 15.; and

5. K.C.C. 6.65.310.B.2, and 3.;

C. The director shall assess a Class C penalty, which is a one-thousand-dollar civil penalty for an offense:

1. K.C.C. 6.65.170.F.;

2. K.C.C. 6.65.360.A.1., 3., 4., 5., 6., 7., 8., 9., 10., 11., 12., 13., 14., 15., 16., 17., 18., 19., 20., 21., 22., and 23.; and

3. K.C.C. 6.65.370.A., B., C., and D.;

D. The director shall assess a one-thousand-dollar civil penalty for the first offense and suspend the license or medallion for the second and subsequent offenses:

1. K.C.C. 6.65.320.A. and C.;

2. K.C.C. 6.65.360.D. and E.; and

3. K.C.C. 6.65.380.A.4.;

E. The director shall assess a one-thousand-dollar civil penalty for each offense. It is a criminal misdemeanor for the second and subsequent offenses, which the director may refer for prosecution:

1. K.C.C. 6.65.070.A.;

2. K.C.C. 6.65.220; and

3. K.C.C. 6.65.260.B.;

F. For offenses violating the following, the director shall take the listed action:

1. K.C.C. 6.65.090.A., B., E., F., G., H., I., J., K., L., and M., denial;

2. K.C.C. 6.65.160.O., R., and S., revocation;

3. K.C.C. 6.65.170.C., E., and H., suspension;

4. K.C.C. 6.65.200.G., revocation;

5. 6.65.230.E., denial;

6. K.C.C. 6.65.260.A., revocation;

7. K.C.C. 6.65.260.C., denial;

8. K.C.C. 6.65.280.A., G., and H., summary suspension;

9. K.C.C. 6.65.290.C., suspension;

10. K.C.C. 6.65.290.D., suspension of the regional for-hire driver's license wheelchair accessible vehicle endorsement;

11. K.C.C. 6.65.310.A.1. and 2., summary suspension;

12. K.C.C. 6.65.330.A., revocation;

13. K.C.C. 6.65.340.A., denial; and

14. K.C.C. 6.65.360.A.24., suspension;

G. The director shall suspend a license or medallion, or shall deny a license or medallion application at renewal:

1. K.C.C. 6.65.260.F.;

2. K.C.C. 6.65.270.A.;

3. K.C.C. 6.65.310.B.1.; and

4. K.C.C. 6.65.360.A.2.;

H. The director shall assess a two-hundred-fifty-dollar civil penalty for the first offense and a one-thousand-dollar civil penalty for second and subsequent offenses of K.C.C. 6.65.080;

I. The director shall revoke a license or deny a license application at renewal for an offense of K.C.C. 6.65.170.O.;

J. For rules promulgated in accordance with K.C.C. 6.65.160.V., K.C.C. 6.65.310.A.16., and K.C.C. 6.65.360.A.25., the director shall specify any applicable civil penalty or license action in the rule itself.

K. Any violation not enumerated in this section that does not pose a threat or hazard to life, safety, or property shall have a civil penalty of up to five-hundred-dollars. Any violation not enumerated in this section that poses a threat or hazard to life, safety, or property shall have a civil penalty of up to one-thousand-dollars. (Ord. 19700 § 46, 2024).

6.65.440 Citations and license actions.

A. The director may issue citations and suspend, summarily suspend, deny, or revoke any license, endorsement, or medallion of any person for violating or failing to comply with any applicable provision of this chapter.

B. Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, the director may summarily suspend a license, endorsement, or medallion issued under this chapter, with the suspension to take effect immediately by order of the director prior to any hearing upon finding that:

1. There is reasonable cause to believe that the licensee has engaged in activity that causes or will cause a clear, substantial, and imminent hazard to life, safety, property, or privacy of the driver, passenger, or public, or any combination thereof; or

2. There is a lapse in coverage or the coverage of any surety bond or public liability insurance policy required to be filed with the director is less than the minimum requirements in K.C.C. 6.65.270.

C. The following applies to license actions:

1.a. Whenever any license, endorsement, or medallion is revoked or summarily suspended the revocation or summary suspension is effective upon issuance of the notice. Such notice may be appealed in accordance with the procedures of K.C.C. 6.65.450. If a timely appeal is not filed by the licensee, the notice of revocation or summary suspension shall be final.

b. A final order of revocation shall extend for twelve months, except for a final medallion revocation. Upon the final order of revocation of a medallion, where all appellate proceedings, if any, have been concluded, a medallion owner shall immediately surrender the taxicab or for-hire vehicle medallion plate or decal to the director and has sixty days to transfer the medallion as prescribed by K.C.C. 6.65.230.

c. A final order of summary suspension shall extend until the license, endorsement, or medallion expires or until evidence satisfactory to the director is produced showing that the violation is cured, whichever occurs first;

2. If the licensee does not file a timely appeal in accordance with K.C.C. 6.65.450, the notice of suspension shall be final. Suspensions are effective upon the date included in the notice of suspension or if timely appealed under K.C.C. 6.65.450, when an order on appeal affirming such notice becomes final. Suspensions shall extend until the license or endorsement expires or until evidence satisfactory to the director is produced showing that the violation is cured, whichever occurs first; and

3. Except in the case of revocation or summary suspension, whenever a timely appeal is filed in accordance with K.C.C. 6.65.450, a licensee may continue to operate pending a final decision on appeal. Any applicant not licensed in the preceding license year may not engage in the activity for which the license is required pending a final decision on appeal. (Ord. 19700 § 47, 2024).

6.65.450 Notice and hearing for citations, denials, suspensions, summary suspensions, and revocations.

A. A citation or license action shall include the following:

1. The name and address of the person to whom the citation or license action is issued;

2. The address of the location, if relevant, where the violation occurred;

3. A separate statement of each provision violated;

4. The date of the violation;

5. The applicable monetary penalty or license action;

6. A statement that the person cited must respond to the citation or license action within twenty-four calendar days after service;

7. A statement that a response must be sent to the hearing examiner and received not later than 4:30 p.m. on the day the response is due;

8. Contact information for where the response to the citation or license action is to be filed;

9. A statement that the citation or license action represents a determination that a violation has been committed by the person named in the citation or license action and that the determination shall be final unless appealed in accordance with this chapter; and

10. A statement certified under penalty of perjury by the director's representative issuing the citation or license action setting forth facts supporting issuance of the citation or license action.

B. The citation or license action shall be addressed to the person allegedly responsible for the violation, and be served by first-class mail, electronically, or in person. Service by first-class mail shall be deemed complete three days after the mailing. If a citation or license action sent either electronically or by first class mail, and is returned as undeliverable, the citation or license action may be served in person. The director shall respond to inquiries concerning the facts and process of the decision and request for any files that detail the facts on which the director based the ruling.

C. A person cited must respond to a citation in one of the following ways:

1. Pay the amount of the monetary penalty specified in the citation within thirty calendar days of issuance, in which case the record shall show a finding that the person cited committed the violation;

2. Timely request in writing a hearing to mitigate, by explaining the circumstances surrounding the commission of the violation, and providing an address to which notice of the hearing may be sent; or

3. Timely request in writing a hearing to appeal, by disputing the commission of the violation, and providing an address to which notice of the hearing may be sent.

D. The director's license action is final unless the person cited timely requests in writing a hearing to appeal the license action and provides an address to which notice of such hearing may be sent.

E. If requesting a hearing, a response to a citation or license action must be received by the hearing examiner no later than twenty-four calendar days after the date the citation is served. When the last day of the appeal period so computed is a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday, the period shall run until 4:30 p.m. on the next business day. If a person fails to respond to a citation or license action within twenty-four calendar days of service, the citation and monetary penalty or license action shall become the final order of the director and is unreviewable by the hearing examiner.

F.1. Appeals of license actions shall be heard by the hearing examiner of the jurisdiction issuing the license action. The presiding hearing examiner shall decide the appeal under the applicable portions of both the King County Code and the Seattle Municipal Code. The King County hearing examiner is bound by any interpretation of the applicable Seattle Municipal Code by the city hearing examiner in a license action appeal. The King County hearing examiner shall forward all decisions made under this subsection F. to the Seattle hearing examiner within ten business days of issuing the decision.

2. Appeals of citations shall be heard by the hearing examiner of the jurisdiction issuing the citation, and the hearing examiner shall decide the appeal under the King County Code.

3. The hearing for a license action or a citation shall be held within forty-five calendar days after written response is received by the hearing examiner, except that hearings for summary suspensions shall be held within ten business days of the request, unless a later date is agreed to by the person issued the license action. With the exception of summary suspension hearings, notice of the time, place, and date of the hearing shall be sent to the address specified in the request for hearing not less than ten calendar days before the hearing.

G. Hearings to appeal the citation or license action shall be conducted in accordance with the procedures and rules of the hearing examiner. The issues heard at the hearing shall be limited to those that are raised in writing in the response to the citation or license action and that are within the jurisdiction of the hearing examiner. The hearing examiner may issue subpoenas for the attendance of witnesses and the production of documents. The director shall have the burden of proving by a preponderance of the evidence both that the violation occurred and the appropriateness of the remedy the director has imposed.

H. A citation or license action shall not be deemed insufficient for failure to contain a detailed statement of the facts constituting the specific violation that the person is alleged to have committed or by reason of defects or imperfections, but only if the lack of detail, or the defects or imperfections, do not prejudice substantial rights of the person. A citation or license action may be amended before the conclusion of the hearing to conform to the evidence presented if substantial rights of the affected person are not thereby prejudiced.

I. The certified statement or declaration authorized by chapter 5.50 RCW shall be prima facie evidence that a violation occurred and that the person listed on the citation or license action is responsible. The certified statement or declaration authorized under penalty of perjury and any other evidence accompanying the report shall be admissible without further evidentiary foundation.

J. In cases where the person seeks to mitigate the citation, the person may explain the circumstances surrounding the commission of the violation. In cases where the person disputes the citation or license action, the person may rebut the director's evidence and establish that the violation or violations preceding the citation or license action did not occur or that the person appealing the citation or license action is not responsible for the violation.

K. In a mitigation hearing, the hearing examiner shall determine whether the person's explanation justifies reduction of the monetary penalty. However, the monetary penalty may not be reduced unless the director affirms or certifies that the violation has been corrected prior to the mitigation hearing. Factors that may be considered in whether to reduce the penalty include: whether the violation was caused by the act, neglect, or abuse of another; or whether correction of the violation was commenced before the issuance of the citation but full compliance was prevented by a condition or circumstance beyond the control of the person cited. The hearing examiner shall enter an order finding that the person cited committed the violation and assess a monetary penalty.

L. If the citation or license action is sustained at the hearing, the hearing examiner shall enter an order finding that the person committed the violation and impose the applicable monetary penalty or enter an order affirming the license action. The hearing examiner may reduce the monetary penalty of a citation in accordance with subsection K. of this section. If the hearing examiner determines that the violation did not occur, the hearing examiner shall enter an order dismissing the citation or denying the license action.

M. Failure to appear for a requested hearing will result in the hearing examiner entering an order finding that the person committed the violation and assessing the penalty specified in the citation or finding that the person committed the violation and affirming the license action. For good cause shown and upon terms the hearing examiner deems just, the hearing examiner may set aside an order entered upon a failure to appear and schedule a new hearing date.

N. If a license action involving a vehicle is upheld, and the vehicle is to be temporarily or permanently placed out of service, the director shall initiate the temporary deactivation process authorized under this chapter and the licensee shall immediately surrender all applicable vehicle medallion plates or decals to the director.

O. The decision of the hearing examiner shall be final and conclusive unless review is timely filed with the appropriate court.

P. The hearing examiner may affirm, modify, or reverse the decisions of the director.

Q. The director may contract with a third party to serve as the hearing examiner for purposes of this chapter, if done in conjunction with the city of Seattle. (Ord. 19700 § 48, 2024).

6.65.460 Director's reports. The director shall issue a joint annual report with the city of Seattle on the state of for-hire transportation in the region on or before April 30 of each year, and the director shall make the annual report, for the previous calendar year, publicly available on the director's website. The report may include but is not limited to the following:

A. The number of licensed vehicles providing for-hire transportation services in King County and the city of Seattle during the reporting period and during the preceding year;

B. The number of licensed regional for-hire drivers in King County and the city of Seattle during the reporting period and during the preceding year;

C. The numbers and nature of complaints;

D. The results of any survey of taxicab response times and any changes in response times from the previous year;

E. What, if any, organizations have been authorized to operate as an emerging for-hire transportation model; and

F. Any other information or recommendations deemed appropriate by the director. (Ord. 19700 § 49, 2024).

6.65.470 Rulemaking authority.

A. The director is authorized to implement, enforce, and administer this chapter, including adopting, revising, or rescinding rules deemed necessary, appropriate, convenient, or efficient to implement, enforce and administer this chapter under the procedures specified in K.C.C. chapter 2.98.

B. 1. If the director determines that certain provisions of this chapter related to licensing and operating standards, fees, or both should be temporarily suspended or modified, the director shall electronically transmit a temporary suspension or modification notification letter to the council detailing the scope and rationale for the determination, which may include, but not be limited to, the following factors:

a. the action would serve the public interest, including the public's need for safe, reliable, and effective for-hire transportation;

b. technology has changed such that the requirements are no longer necessary or new requirements are necessary;

c. the action would improve the economic viability for drivers and vehicle owners; and

d. the action would encourage and enable companies and agencies to innovate and improve customer service and increase access to for-hire transportation options.

2. Unless the council passes a motion rejecting the proposed temporary suspension or modification within thirty days of the director's transmittal, the director may proceed with the temporary suspension or modification as set forth in the notification letter. The director shall electronically file the letter with the clerk of the council, who will retain an electronic copy and provide an electronic copy to all councilmembers, the council chief of staff, and the lead staff for the government accountability and oversight committee or its successor.

3. Temporary suspensions or modifications under this section shall last no more than six months from the end of the thirty-day period if the council by motion has not rejected the temporary suspension or modification. (Ord. 19700 § 50, 2024).

6.65.475 Autonomous operation of automated driving system prohibited.

Unless granted such authority by the director by rule, a vehicle equipped with an automated driving system providing for-hire transportation services is prohibited from autonomous operation. A director's rule granting such authority is subject to the following conditions:

A. The director must obtain written concurrence in advance from the directors of the King County department of local services and the King County sheriff's office to authorize autonomous operation of an autonomous vehicle providing for-hire transportation services; and

B. The director must establish safety and regulatory requirements for autonomous operation of an autonomous vehicle providing for-hire transportation services, including, but not limited to, requiring the following items before deployment: advanced notification of deployment; notice of contact information and public outreach events; first responder interaction information with the King County sheriff's office and any city with which the county has contracted under K.C.C. 6.65.035; proof of insurance acceptable to the county; indemnification acceptable to the county; notification of collisions, moving violations, or other reportable events as required by state law; and demonstrated compliance with Washington state Department of Licensing requirements, including but not limited to self-certification; and any other requirements from state law. (Ord. 19700 § 51, 2024).

6.65.480 Additional remedies. Notwithstanding the existence or use of any other remedy, the prosecuting attorney may seek legal or equitable relief to enjoin an act or practice that constitutes or will constitute a violation of this chapter or an applicable rule adopted under this chapter. (Ord. 19700 § 52, 2024).

6.65.495 Penalty for violation of K.C.C. chapter 6.64 regarding matters under the scope of this chapter remains due and payable. A penalty issued under K.C.C. chapter 6.64, regarding matters now in the scope of this chapter, that was either not appealed or was upheld after review, and that remains unpaid as of December 18, 2023, shall remain due and payable after December 18, 2023. (Ord. 19700 § 53, 2024).

6.68 THEATERS

Sections:

6.68.010 License required.

6.68.020 License fee ‑ Term.

6.68.030 Transferring of license.

6.68.040 Renewal of license, registration or permit ‑ Late penalty.

6.68.050 Application for license.

6.68.060 Penalty ‑ Misdemeanor.

6.68.070 Civil penalty.

6.68.080 Additional enforcement.

6.68.010 License required. It is unlawful for any person to open, operate, conduct, manage, maintain or control any theater which is open to the public and which is located within the unincorporated areas of King County, Washington, without a valid and subsisting license to be known as a "theater license." (Res. 19610 § 1, 1959).

6.68.020 License Fee ‑ Term. The fee for a theater license shall be one hundred dollars per screen per year, commencing May 1st and ending April 30th of each year, payable in advance to King County. (Ord. 10170 § 15, 1991: Res. 19610 § 2, 1959).

6.68.030 Transferring of license. No license issued under the provisions of this chapter shall be transferable or assignable, unless specifically authorized by the director. (Ord. 1888 Art. V § 67, 1974: Res. 19610 § 3, 1959).

6.68.040 Renewal of license, registration or permit ‑ Late penalty. A late penalty shall be charged on all applications for renewal of a license, registration or permit received later than ten working days after the expiration date of such license, registration or permit as set forth in the respective resolution or ordinance establishing the expiration date of such license, registration or permit. The amount of such penalty is fixed as follows:

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty cents or more, but less than fifty dollars ‑ twenty percent of the required fee.

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty dollars or more, but less than one thousand dollars ‑ ten percent of the required fee.

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of one thousand dollars or more ‑ five percent of the required fee. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 3, 1974).

6.68.050 Application for license. All applications for licenses under this chapter shall be made to the director. (Ord. 1888 Art. V § 68, 1974: Res. 19610 § 5, 1959).

6.68.060 Penalty ‑ Misdemeanor. Any violation or failure to comply with the provisions of this chapter shall constitute a misdemeanor and shall be punishable as such. (Res. 19610 § 7, 1959).

6.68.070 Civil penalty. In addition to or as an alternative to any other penalty provided herein or by law any person who violates any provision of any business license ordinance shall be subject to a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars per violation to be directly assessed by the director. The director, in a reasonable manner, may vary the amount of the penalty assessed to consider the appropriateness of the penalty to the size of the business of the violator; the gravity of the violation; the number of past and present violations committed and the good faith of the violator in attempting to achieve compliance after notification of the violation. All civil penalties assessed will be enforced and collected in accordance with the procedure specified under this title. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 1, 1974).

6.68.080 Additional enforcement. Notwithstanding the existence or use of any other remedy, the director may seek legal or equitable relief to enjoin any acts or practices which constitute or will constitute a violation of any business license ordinance or other regulations herein adopted. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 2, 1974).

6.70 MARIJUANA RETAIL ACTIVITIES AND BUSINESSES

Sections:

6.70.010 Purpose

6.70.020 Retail marijuana business license – required – display.

6.70.030 Retail marijuana business license – application.

6.70.040 Retail marijuana business license – renewal – fee required – reduction of fee.

6.70.050 Retail marijuana business license – denial, suspension, revocation – appeal.

6.70.060 Retail marijuana business license or renewal – expiration – renewal due date.

6.70.070 Retail marijuana business license – issuance or denial.

6.70.010 Purpose. It is the purpose of this chapter to establish business licensing standards for marijuana retail activities and businesses licensed by the Washington state Liquor and Cannabis Board and located in unincorporated King County, in order to promote and protect the health, safety and general welfare of unincorporated King County's residents. (Ord. 18326 § 3, 2016).

6.70.020 Retail marijuana business license – required – display. A person or entity shall not operate or maintain a retail marijuana business in unincorporated King County unless the business has obtained a business license issued by the director as provided by this chapter. A current marijuana retail business license issued under this chapter shall be prominently displayed on the licensed premises. (Ord. 18326 § 4, 2016).

6.70.030 Retail marijuana business license – application. An application for a retail marijuana business license or license renewal must be submitted in the name of the person or persons or the entity proposing to operate the business. The application shall be signed by each person, or a responsible principle or officer of any entity, proposing to operate the business, certified as true under penalty of perjury. All applications shall be submitted on a form supplied by the director, and shall include the following:

A. The full name, birthdate, current residential, email and mailing address of each person, including all partners if the applicant is a partnership, and all officers or principles if the applicant is a corporation or limited liability company, with a financial interest in the business; and the Universal Business Identifier number, the identity of the registered agent and the address of the principle office, if the applicant is a corporation or limited liability company;

B. The name, street address and telephone number of the retail marijuana business;

C. A copy of the Washington state Liquor and Cannabis Board retail marijuana license associated with the business address or, if a state license has not been issued, a complete copy of a retail marijuana license application submitted to and accepted by the Washington state Liquor and Cannabis Board; and

D. A copy of a medical marijuana endorsement approval letter issued by the Washington state Liquor and Cannabis Board, if applicable. (Ord. 18326 § 5, 2016).

6.70.040 Retail marijuana business license – renewal – fee required – reduction of fee. An applicant for a retail marijuana business license or renewal under this chapter shall pay an application fee at the time of application submittal. The nonrefundable application fee for a retail marijuana business license or renewal is one thousand dollars. The nonrefundable application fee for a retail marijuana business license or renewal shall be reduced by fifty percent if at the time of application, the applicant shows proof of a current medical marijuana endorsement issued by the Washington state Liquor and Cannabis Board. (Ord. 18822 § 46, 2018: Ord. 18326 § 6, 2016).

6.70.050 Retail marijuana business license – denial, suspension, revocation – appeal. The director shall deny, suspend or revoke a license issued under this chapter if the Washington state Liquor and Cannabis Board does not issue a license to the business, or if the department of local services, permitting division receives notice that the state license issued to the business is suspended or revoked, or was not reissued. A business owner whose application for a business license has been denied or whose license has been suspended or revoked may appeal the decision to the office of the hearing examiner in accordance with K.C.C. 6.01.150. (Ord. 18791 § 47, 2018: Ord. 18326 § 7, 2016).

6.70.060 Retail marijuana business license or renewal – expiration – renewal due date. A retail marijuana business license expires one year from the date the business license is issued by the department of local services, permitting division. To avoid a lapse in the effectiveness of a license, an application to renew a license must be submitted to the director, on a form provided by the director, at least thirty days before the expiration of the business license. A retail marijuana business license renewal expires one year from the previous license's expiration date. (Ord. 18791 § 48, 2018: Ord. 18326 § 8, 2016).

6.70.070 Retail marijuana business license – issuance or denial. Within thirty days of the director's receipt of a complete retail marijuana business license application, the director shall issue or deny the license. Within thirty days of the director's receipt of a complete renewal application, the director shall issue or deny the renewal. (Ord. 18326 § 9, 2016).

6.72 TOBACCO VENDING MACHINES

Sections:

6.72.020 Definitions.

6.72.030 Prohibition.

6.72.040 Identification required.

6.72.050 License required.

6.72.060 Sanctions.

6.72.070 License application and issuance.

6.72.080 Fee.

6.72.090 Non‑transferability.

6.72.100 Health warnings required.

6.72.110 Penalty for minors.

6.72.020 Definitions. The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.

A. "Minor" means any individual who is less than eighteen years old.

B. "Retailer" means any person, firm, association, company, partnership or corporation who operates a store, stand, booth, concession or other place at which sales are made to purchasers for consumption or use.

C. "Sales conducted in person" means payment for the purchase of the tobacco item is received directly and in person from the purchaser by the seller or the seller's employee. Tobacco vending machines that are located in plain view of the seller or the seller's employee and controlled by an electronic device activated by the seller or the seller's employee, upon the buyer's presentation of acceptable identification as required in K.C.C. 6.72.040, shall be deemed "sales conducted in person."

D. "Tobacco vending machine" means and includes any machine or device designated for or used for the vending of cigarettes, cigars, tobacco or tobacco products upon the insertion of coins, trade checks or slugs. (Ord. 18728 § 80, 2018: Ord. 17420 § 13, 2012: Ord. 14199 § 122, 2001: Ord. 8659 § 2, 1988)

6.72.030 Prohibition. Tobacco vending machines or any other mechanism or method of retail sales of cigarettes or other tobacco products that do not require a sale to be conducted in person by the seller or agent of the seller are prohibited in unincorporated King County. However, this section shall not prohibit the installation and use of a tobacco vending machine by a proprietor, the proprietor's agents or employees eighteen years or greater in:

A. Any premises or portion thereof to which access by minors is expressly prohibited by law, if, and only if, the tobacco vending machine is located fully within such premises from which minors are prohibited and not less than ten feet from all entrance and/or exit ways; or

B. Commercial buildings or industrial plants or portions thereof where the public is expressly prohibited and where such machines are strictly for the use of employees therein; provided that, the area must be signed as not open to the public and no minor employees are usually admitted. (Ord. 18728 § 81, 2018: Ord. 8659 § 3, 1988).

6.72.040 Identification required. No retailer shall sell or permit to be sold cigarettes or other tobacco products to any individual without requesting and examining identification from the purchaser positively establishing the purchaser's age as eighteen (18) years or greater unless the seller has some other conclusive basis for determining the buyer is over the age of eighteen (18) years.

In the event the seller does not request and examine identification from the purchaser, the seller shall be deemed to have not had "a conclusive basis" under this section if the purchaser is in fact a minor.

Identification shall be by means of an officially issued card accepted as proof of age for the sale of alcoholic beverages pursuant to RCW 66.16.040. (Ord. 8659 § 4, 1988)

6.72.050 License required. After February 1, 1989 it shall be unlawful for any retailer in unincorporated King County to sell cigarettes or any tobacco products unless that retailer first obtains and maintains a valid license from King County for each location where cigarette sales are conducted. The license shall be good for a three‑year term if the licensee complies with the provisions of this chapter. The requirements of this section shall be superseded at any time a rule requiring a license for the retail sale of cigarettes and tobacco products with comparable sanctions for sales to minors has been adopted by the King County board of health. Compliance with the county board of health rule shall constitute compliance with this section. Unless otherwise specified, the general licensing provisions, contained in K.C.C. Chapter 6.01 shall apply to this license. (Ord. 8833, 1989: Ord. 8659 §§ 5‑6, 1988).

6.72.060 Sanctions. A license shall be suspended by King County upon a finding, after notice and opportunity to be heard, that the licensee has failed to comply with any provision of this chapter as follows:

A. In the case of a first and single violation, the licensee shall be fined one hundred dollars and shall be given notification, in writing, of provisions for penalties to be levied in the event of additional or further violations; and

B. In the case of a second or two violations, the licensee shall be fined five‑hundred dollars and the license shall be suspended for not less than 90 consecutive business days nor more than 6 months; and

C. In the case of three or more violations, the licensee shall be fined one thousand dollars and the license shall be revoked not less than nine months and no more than eighteen months from the date of revocation.

D. Each sale to a minor shall constitute a separate violation. (Ord. 8659 § 7, 1988).

6.72.070 License application and issuance.

A. Application for a tobacco retailers license shall be submitted in the name of the entity or person proposing to conduct retail tobacco sales on the business premise and shall be signed and notarized by such person or the applicant's agent. All applications shall be submitted on a form supplied by the director and contain the following information:

1. The name, home address, home telephone number, date and place of birth, and social security number of the applicant if the applicant is an individual;

2. The names, addresses, telephone numbers, and social security numbers of any partners or corporate officers;

3. The business name, address, and telephone number of each establishment where tobacco is retailed.

B. Upon receipt of an application for a tobacco retail license the director shall issue a license which must be prominently displayed at the location where tobacco retail sales are conducted. (Ord. 18728 § 82, 2018: Ord. 8659 § 8, 1988).

6.72.080 Fee. The fee for a three‑year tobacco retailer's license is $210 for each tobacco retail location. (Ord. 8659 § 9, 1988).

6.72.090 Non‑transferability. A tobacco retail license is nontransferable, except, if a tobacco retailer changes location, a new tobacco retail license will be issued for the new address upon receipt of an application for change of location. The license will retain the same expiration date as that previously issued. (Ord. 8659 § 10, 1988).

6.72.100 Health warnings required. It is prohibited for a retailer to sell cigarettes not in a package provided by the manufacturer with required health warnings. (Ord. 8659 § 11, 1988).

6.72.110 Penalty for minors.

A. Minors are prohibited from purchasing tobacco products. Purchase by a minor of tobacco products is hereby designated an infraction.

1. In the case of a ruling that a first infraction was found to have been committed by a minor purchaser, the minor shall be required to perform up to ten hours of community service.

2. In the case of a ruling that a second or two infractions were found to have been committed by a minor purchaser, the minor purchaser shall be required to perform a minimum of fifteen hours community service.

3. In the case of a ruling that three or more infractions were found to have been committed by a minor purchaser, the minor purchaser shall be required to perform a minimum of twenty‑five hours community service.

B. Smoking cessation classes can be ordered in addition to or in lieu of the community service for violations.

C. Each purchase by a minor shall constitute a separate violation. (Ord. 8659 § 13, 1988).

6.74 ADULT BEVERAGE BUSINESSES

Sections:

6.74.010 Purpose.

6.74.020 Definition – adult beverage business.

6.74.030 Business license required – display of license – compliance with laws.

6.74.040 Application or renewal of license.

6.74.050 License or renewal fee.

6.74.060 Denial, suspension or revocation of license – notice – investigation – appeal.

6.74.070 Expiration of license – renewal deadline.

6.74.080 Issuance or denial of license – approval of businesses operating under state production license before December 31, 2019, and subsequent renewals.

6.74.010 Purpose. It is the purpose of this chapter to establish business licensing standards for adult beverage businesses located in unincorporated King County, in order to promote and protect the health, safety and general welfare of unincorporated King County's residents. (Ord. 19030 § 4, 2019).

6.74.020 Definition – adult beverage business. For the purpose of this chapter, unless the context clearly requires otherwise, "adult beverage business" means a winery, brewery, distillery or cidery, and remote tasting rooms for any of those businesses. A nonconforming home occupation and a nonconforming home industry is an "adult beverage business" for the purposes of this section. (Ord. 19030 § 5, 2019).

6.74.030 Business license required – display of license – compliance with laws. A person or entity shall not operate or maintain an adult beverage business in unincorporated King County unless the business has obtained a business license issued by the director as provided by this chapter. A current adult beverage business license issued under this chapter shall be prominently displayed on the licensed premises. The adult beverage business licensee shall comply with all applicable laws. (Ord. 19030 § 6, 2019).

6.74.040 Application or renewal of license. An application for an adult beverage business license or license renewal must be submitted in the name of the person, the persons or the entity proposing to operate the business. The application shall be signed by each person, or a responsible principal or officer of the entity proposing to operate the business, certified as true under penalty of perjury. All applications shall be submitted on a form supplied by the director, and shall include the following:

A. The full name and current residential, email and mailing address of each person, including all partners if the applicant is a partnership, and all officers or principals if the applicant is a corporation or limited liability company, and the Universal Business Identifier number, the identity of the registered agent and the address of the principal office, if the applicant is a corporation or limited liability company;

B. The name, street address and telephone number of the adult beverage business;

C. A copy of the Washington state Liquor and Cannabis Board non-retail liquor license or non-retail liquor license with retail endorsement associated with the business address;

D. For businesses in the A zone, a signed statement that at least sixty percent of the products to be used by the business are grown on-site, as prescribed under K.C.C. 21A.08.030 and 21A.08.080; and

E. For any adult beverage businesses attempting to demonstrate legal nonconforming use status under 6.74.080.B., operating under an active Washington state Liquor and Cannabis Board production license issued for their current location before December 31, 2019, and where King County did not object to the location during the Washington state Liquor and Cannabis Board license application process, documentation sufficient to establish that the requirements of K.C.C. Title 21A have been met, and documentation of the county's response to the notice of application, if any. (Ord. 19030 § 7, 2019).

6.74.050 License or renewal fee. An applicant for an adult beverage business license or renewal under this chapter shall pay an application fee at the time of application submittal. The nonrefundable application fee for an adult beverage business license or renewal is one hundred dollars. (Ord. 19030 § 8, 2019).

6.74.060 Denial, suspension or revocation of license – notice – investigation – appeal. The director shall deny, suspend or revoke a license issued under this chapter if the Washington state Liquor and Cannabis Board does not issue a license to the business, or if the department of local services, permitting division receives notice that the state license issued to the business is suspended or revoked, or was not reissued, or if, after an investigation, the director determines that the proposed business location does not comply with K.C.C. Title 21A. A business owner whose application for a business license has been denied or whose license has been suspended or revoked may appeal the decision to the office of the hearing examiner in accordance with K.C.C. 6.01.150. (Ord. 19030 § 9, 2019).

6.74.070 Expiration of license – renewal deadline. An adult beverage business license expires one year from the date the business license is issued by the department of local services, permitting division. To avoid a lapse in the effectiveness of a license, an application to renew a license must be submitted to the director, on a form provided by the director, at least thirty days before the expiration of the business license. An adult beverage business license renewal expires one year from the previous license's expiration date. (Ord. 19030 § 10, 2019).

6.74.080 Issuance or denial of license – approval of businesses operating under state production license before December 31, 2019, and subsequent renewals.

A. Within thirty days of the director's receipt of a complete adult beverage business license application, the director shall issue or deny the license. Within thirty days of the director's receipt of a complete renewal application, the director shall issue or deny the renewal.

B. For any adult beverage businesses operating under an active Washington state Liquor and Cannabis Board production license issued for their current location before December 31, 2019, and where King County did not object to the location during the Washington state Liquor and Cannabis Board license application process, if all other requirements of this chapter are met, the director shall approve the first adult beverage business license. The first business license shall be valid for six months from the date of issuance. The first business license may be extended, at no charge to the applicant, for an additional six months, if the director determines that the business operator has taken substantial steps to document compliance with K.C.C. Title 21A. Subsequent business licenses or renewals for such locations shall only be approved by the director if:

1. The requirements to establish a legal nonconforming use have been met;

2. The applicant has otherwise established a vested legal nonconforming use;

3. The director determines that the business operator has taken substantial steps to document compliance with K.C.C. Title 21A; or

4. If the business has come into conformance with the winery, brewery, distillery facility I, II or III or remote tasting room regulations adopted in K.C.C. 21A.08.070, 21A.08.080 or K.C.C. 21A.55.110*. (Ord. 19030 § 11, 2019).

*Reviser's note: In Ordinance 19030, Section 28 is cited here, but Section 28 is an uncodified section. Section 29, which is codified as K.C.C. 21A.55.110 and is about the demonstration project, was apparently intended, and that that manifest error is corrected here.

6.76 CHARITABLE SOLICITATIONS

Sections:

6.76.010 Definitions.

6.76.020 Soliciting for private needs prohibited.

6.76.030 Permit - required - exemptions.

6.76.040 Permit - application - contents.

6.76.050 Permit - application - investigation.

6.76.060 Permit - application - state registration in lieu of.

6.76.070 Permit - issuance.

6.76.080 Permit - fees.

6.76.090 Permit - term.

6.76.100 Credentials.

6.76.110 Permit - expiration - return.

6.76.120 Written receipts required.

6.76.130 Renewal of license, registration or permit - late penalty.

6.76.140 Permit - suspension or revocation - notice to director of public safety.

6.76.150 Books and records of permit holders.

6.76.160 Financial report.

6.76.170 Religious solicitations - certificate of registration - required.

6.76.180 Religious solicitations - certificate of registration - regulations.

6.76.190 Fraudulent misrepresentation and misstatements prohibited.

6.76.200 Violation - penalty.

6.76.210 Civil penalty.

6.76.220 Additional enforcement.

6.76.010 Definitions. For the purposes of this chapter, the following words and terms, unless a different meaning clearly appears from the context, shall mean as follows:

A. "Charitable" means and includes the words patriotic, philanthropic, social service, welfare, benevolent, educational, civic or social, either actual or purported; provided, such term shall not include "religious" and "religion," which terms shall be given their commonly accepted definitions;

B. "Contributions" means and includes alms, food, clothing, money, credit, subscription, property, financial assistance or other thing of value and including any donations under the guise of a loan of money or property;

C. "Direct gift" means and includes an outright contribution of food, clothing, money, credit, property, financial assistance or other thing of value to be used for a charitable or religious purpose and for which the donor receives no consideration or thing of value in return;

D. "Person" means any individual, firm, partnership, corporation, company, association or joint stock association, church, religious sect, religious denomination, society, organization or league, and includes any trustee, receiver, assignee, agent or other similar representative thereof;

E. "Promoter" means any person who promotes, manages, supervises, organizes or attempts to promote, manage, supervise or organize a campaign of solicitation, but shall not include either a bona fide full‑time salaried officer or employee of a charitable organization whose salary or other compensation is not computed on funds raised or to be raised, or a temporary employee who is employed to contact volunteer workers by telephone but who may not solicit contributors directly;

F. "Sale and benefit affair" means and includes, but is not limited to, athletic or sports event, bazaar, benefit, campaign, circus, dance, drive, entertainment, exhibition, exposition, party, performance, picnic, sale, social gathering, theater or variety show, which the public is requested to patronize or attend or to which the public is requested to make a contribution for any charitable or religious purpose connected therewith;

G. "Solicit" and "solicitation" mean the request within the county directly or indirectly of money, credit, property, financial assistance or other thing of value on the plea or representation that such money, credit, property, financial assistance or other thing of value will be used for a charitable or religious purpose, and include:

1. Any oral or written request,

2. The distribution, circulation, mailing, posting or publishing of any handbill, written advertisement of publication,

3. The making of any announcement to the press, by radio or television, by telephone or telegraph concerning an appeal, assemblage, athletic or sports event, bazaar, benefit, campaign, circus, contest, dance, drive, entertainment, exhibition, exposition, party, performance, picnic, sale, social gathering, theater or variety show, which the public is requested to patronize or to which the public is requested to make a contribution for any charitable or religious purpose connected therewith,

4. The sale of, offer or attempt to sell any advertisement, advertising space, book, card, chance, coupon, device, magazine, membership, subscription, ticket, admission, article or other thing in connection with which any appeal is made for any charitable or religious purpose, or where the name of any charitable or religious organization, association or person is used or referred to in any such appeal or where in connection with any such sale, any statement is made that the whole or any part of the proceeds from any such sale will go or be donated to any charitable or religious purpose.

A "solicitation" shall be deemed completed when made, whether or not the person making the same received any contribution or makes any sale referred to in this section. (Ord. 18728 § 83, 2018: Ord. 17420 § 14, 2012: Ord. 14199 § 123, 2001: Ord. 2053 § 1, 1974: Ord. 1603 § 1, 1973).

6.76.020 Soliciting for private needs prohibited. No person shall solicit contributions for the person's own self in or upon any public street or public place in the King County. (Ord. 18728 § 84, 2018: Ord. 1603 § 2, 1973).

6.76.030 Permit - required - exemptions. It is unlawful for any person to solicit contributions for any charitable purpose within the county of King without a "charitable solicitation permit" issued by the director authorizing such solicitation; provided, however, that the provisions of this section shall not apply to:

A. Solicitations by any organization operated exclusively for religious or charitable purposes and not operated for the pecuniary profit of any person, if the solicitations by such organization are conducted among the members thereof by other members or officers thereof, voluntarily and without remuneration for making such solicitations, or if the solicitations are in the form of collections or contributions at the regular assemblies, meetings or services of any such organization;

B. Any charitable organization which does not solicit and collect contributions in this county in excess of two thousand five hundred dollars in any one year period all of such fund‑raising functions are carried on by persons who are unpaid for their services. (Ord. 2053 § 2, 1603 § 3, 1973).

6.76.040 Permit - application - contents. An application for a charitable solicitation permit shall be made to the director upon forms provided by the director. Such an application shall be executed under oath by the applicant, and if a promoter is involved in the solicitation, the promoter shall likewise execute under oath the application. The application shall be submitted to the director at least thirty days prior to the time at which the permit applied for shall become effective, but the director may for good cause shown allow the application to be submitted less than thirty days prior to the effective date of the permit applied for. The application shall contain the following information or, in lieu thereof, a detailed statement of the reason or reasons why the information cannot be furnished:

A. The name and address or headquarters of the person applying for the permit;

B. If applicant is not an individual, the names and addresses of the applicant's principal officers and managers, and a copy of the resolution, if any, authorizing the solicitation, certified to as a true and correct copy of the original by the officer having charge of applicant's records;

C. If some organization other than the applicant is to be the beneficiary of the funds solicited hereunder and if that beneficiary organization's name will be used in the campaign of solicitation, there must be filed with the director a statement signed by the board of directors or other governing body of that beneficiary organization, authorizing the use of that organization's name in the solicitation campaign;

D. The purpose for which the solicitation is to be made, the total amount of funds proposed to be raised thereby, and the use or disposition to be made of any receipts therefrom;

E. The name and address of the person or persons by whom the receipts of the solicitation shall be disbursed;

F. The names, addresses and dates of birth of the person or persons who will be in direct charge of conducting the solicitation and the names and dates of birth of all promoters connected or to be connected with the proposed solicitation;

G. An outline of the method or methods to be used in conducting the solicitation and location of any telephone solicitation headquarters;

H. The time when the solicitations shall be made, giving the dates for the beginning and ending of the solicitations;

I. The amount of any wages, fees, commissions, salaries, expenses or emoluments to be expended or paid to any person in connection with the solicitations, and the names and addresses of all the persons;

J. A financial statement for the last preceding fiscal year of any funds collected for charitable purposes by the applicant, that statement giving the amount of money so raised, together with the cost of solicitation, and final distribution of the balance. This financial statement shall be submitted on a uniform reporting form provided by the director;

K. A detailed statement of the charitable work being done by the applicant within the King County;

L. An itemization of the estimated cost of the solicitation;

M. A statement that the cost of the solicitation will not exceed twenty percent of the total gross amount to be raised by direct gifts, fifty‑five percent of the total gross amount to be raised by sale and benefit affairs; and that in either case all wages, fees, commissions, salaries and emoluments paid or to be paid to all salespeople, solicitors, collectors, conductors and managers will not exceed twenty percent of the total gross amount collected;

N. A statement to the effect that if a permit is granted, it will not be used or represented in any way as an endorsement by the King County or by any department or officer thereof of solicitations made thereunder;

O. A statement that applicant, and if applicant is not an individual, its principal officers, and any promoter, has read and understands this chapter; and

P. Such other information as may be reasonably required by the director in order for the director to determine the character of the applicant, promoters and agents, and the kind and character of the proposed solicitation.

If, while any application is pending, or during the term of any permit granted thereon, there is any change in fact, policy or method that would alter the information given in the application, the applicant shall notify the director in writing thereof within twenty-four hours after the change. (Ord. 18728 § 85, 2018: Ord. 1603 § 4, 1973).

6.76.050 Permit - application - investigation. The director shall examine all applications filed under K.C.C. 6.76.040 and shall make, or cause to be made, such further investigation of the application and the applicant as the director deems necessary. Upon request by the director, the applicant shall make available for inspection by the director all of the applicant's books, records and papers at any reasonable time before the permit is granted, during the time a permit is in effect, or after a permit has expired. (Ord. 18728 § 86, 2018: Ord. 1603 § 5, 1973).

6.76.060 Permit - application - state registration in lieu of. Sections 6.76.040 and 6.76.050 shall not apply to any person who has fully complied with the laws of the state of Washington relating to charitable solicitation and has received a valid registration provided:

A. Such person furnishes a sworn statement that state law relating to charitable solicitation has been fully complied with and that the state registration is current and has not been revoked; and

B. Such person files with the director duplicate copies of all applications for registration, correspondence, instruments, documents and papers filed with the appropriate state officer or agency; and

C. Such person pays to the director the appropriate fees specified in Section 6.76.080; and

D. Such person does not use a method of solicitation or a promotional plan in violation of this chapter.

The director shall issue a charitable solicitation permit to any person who complies with this section. (Ord. 1603 § 6, 1973).

6.76.070 Permit - issuance.

A. The director shall issue the permit provided for in K.C.C. 6.76.030 whenever the director finds the following facts to exist:

1. That all of the statements made in application are true;

2. That the applicant and the officers of the organization on whose behalf charitable solicitations are to be made and all persons supervising the solicitations and any promoters connected therewith shall not, to the knowledge of the applicant and/or promoter, have had a record of arrest and conviction with any federal or state law enforcement agency involving misstatement, misrepresentation, deception or fraud;

3. That the control and supervision of the solicitation will be under responsible and reliable persons;

4. That the applicant and, if not an individual, the officers, agents or promoters, have not engaged in any fraudulent transactions or enterprises;

5. That the proposed solicitation will be conducted to finance the charitable cause described in the application, and not for purposes of private gain;

6. That the cost of raising the funds will not exceed twenty percent of the total gross amount to be raised by direct gifts, or fifty‑five percent of the total gross amount to be raised by sale and benefit affairs; and that in either case all wages, fees, commissions, salaries or emoluments paid or to be paid to all salespeople, solicitors, collectors, conductors and managers will not exceed twenty percent of the total gross amount collected;

7. That the method or methods for solicitation outlined in the application do not include any of the following methods of solicitation:

a. charitable solicitations by children under fourteen years of age where the children will be paid for such solicitation or retain a portion of the solicited funds. This prohibition shall not apply where both of the following exist:

(1) the children are members of the organization for whose benefit the solicitation is made; and

(2) all funds so solicited, less permissible costs, shall be expended locally and solely for the direct benefit of children in such organization;

b. delivery by mail or otherwise of any unordered merchandise;

c. solicitation by means of coin or currency boxes or receptacles except:

(1) when each such a box or receptacle shall be the responsibility of a bona fide member, agent or solicitor of the soliciting organization; and

(2) when such responsible person shall be required to pick up each such a box or receptacle at the end of the solicitation period; and

(3) when the use of such boxes and receptacles in the solicitation is expressly authorized by the director; and

8. That the person or organization has tax‑exempt status from the government of the United States.

B. The director may request the sheriff investigate the truth of the statements in the application and all other matters that tend to aid the director in determining whether to grant the permit. The sheriff shall report to the director any reasons the sheriff may have for objecting to the granting of a permit.

C. The director is authorized to make and enforce rules and regulations, not inconsistent with this chapter, and it is unlawful to violate or not to comply with any of the rules and regulations. All of such rules and regulations as are promulgated by the director from time to time shall be reduced to writing and shall be made available to applicants under this chapter. (Ord. 18728 § 87, 2018: Ord. 2053 § 3, 1974: Ord. 1603 § 7, 1973).

6.76.080 Permit - fees.

For charitable solicitation permit where no persons soliciting will be paid for such solicitation or retain a portion of solicited funds, excepting those charitable organizations employing bona fide full‑time salaried officers or employees to supervise such solicitation: $40.00

For charitable solicitation permit where independent solicitors, promoters or

professional fund‑raising organizations will be paid or retain a portion of the solicited funds: $1,000.00

For filing appeal: $10.00

(Ord. 10170 § 16, 1991: Ord. 2053 § 4, 1974: Ord. 1603 § 8, 1973).

6.76.090 Permit - term. All charitable solicitation permits issued under this chapter shall be dated and shall bear the name and address of the person to whom issued and of the organization on whose behalf solicitation may be done and shall be valid for one year from date of issue.

If an annual permit is applied for and denied, the applicant shall be entitled to a public hearing in the manner set forth in Section 6.76.130.

Such permits shall not be transferable and shall state that the same is not an endorsement by King County for the purpose of the solicitation or of the person making the same. (Ord. 2053 § 5, 1974: Ord. 1603 § 9, 1973).

6.76.100 Credentials. All persons to whom charitable solicitation permits have been issued shall furnish to each of their agents and solicitors credentials approved as to form by the director. Such credentials shall include the permit number, the name and telephone number of the permit holder, the purpose of the solicitation, the signature of the applicant, and the name, address and signature of the solicitor to whom such credentials are issued, and the period of time during which the solicitor is authorized to solicit on behalf of the permit holder. The director may authorize the use of the identification approved by the Director of the Department of Licensing for the state of Washington for any person or organization validly registered under the charitable solicitation law, but only if the credentials information listed in this section appears on the identification. It is unlawful for any person to solicit under any such charitable solicitation permit without having in the person's possession the credentials required by this section. The credentials must be shown, upon request, to all persons solicited or to any sheriff's deputy or the director. (Ord. 18728 § 88, 2018: Ord. 1603 § 10, 1973).

6.76.110 Permit - expiration - return. Any charitable solicitation permit shall be returned to the director within seven days of its date of expiration. (Ord. 1603 § 11, 1973).

6.76.120 Written receipts required. Any person receiving money or anything having a value of one dollar or more from any contributor under a solicitation made pursuant to a charitable solicitation permit shall, upon request, give to the contributor a written receipt signed by the solicitor showing plainly the name and permit number of the person under whose permit the solicitation is conducted, the date and the amount received; provided, however, that this section shall not apply to any contributions collected by means of a closed box or receptacle used in solicitation with the express approval of the director. (Ord. 1603 § 12, 1973).

6.76.130 Renewal of license, registration or permit - late penalty. A late penalty shall be charged on all applications for renewal of a license, registration or permit received later than ten working days after the expiration date of such license, registration or permit as set forth in the respective resolution or ordinance establishing the expiration date of such license, registration or permit. The amount of such penalty is fixed as follows:

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty cents or more, but less than fifty dollars ‑ twenty percent of the required fee.

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of fifty dollars or more, but less than one thousand dollars ‑ ten percent of the required fee.

For a license, registration or permit requiring a fee of one thousand dollars or more ‑ five percent of the required fee. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 3, 1974).

6.76.140 Permit - suspension or revocation - notice to director of public safety. The director of the Department of Public Safety shall be notified by the director of the suspension or revocation of any charitable solicitation permit. (Ord. 1603 § 16, 1973).

6.76.150 Books and records of permit holders. Every person to whom a charitable solicitation permit has been issued under this chapter shall maintain a system of accounting whereby all contributions and all disbursements are entered upon the books or records of such person's treasurer or other financial officer. For each solicitation a separate folder containing all vouchers supporting the accounting and containing a record of all contributions and disbursements will be maintained and available for inspection by the director for a period of one year from the end of the period of solicitation. (Ord. 18728 § 89, 2018: Ord. 1603 § 17, 1973).

6.76.160 Financial report. Within thirty days after completing solicitation, the holder of a charitable solicitation permit shall furnish the director with a detailed financial report and statements showing the amount raised by solicitation under the permit, the amount expended in soliciting, including a detailed account of all wages, fees, commissions and expenses allowed or paid anyone in connection with such solicitation, and a statement of the disposition of the balance, and proof of such disposition shall be furnished the director on request. All moneys or things of value collected under such permit shall be reported. The financial report required by this section shall be submitted on a uniform form provided by the director. The director shall keep the report available for inspection by the public; provided, however, the director may extend the time for filing of the report required by this section for an additional period of thirty days or longer upon proof that the filing of the report within the time specified will work unnecessary hardship on the permit holder. Any charitable organization having a one year permit shall file with the director a copy of the independent certified audit of its financial books and records within ten days after the same has been obtained. (Ord. 1603 § 18, 1973).

6.76.170 Religious solicitations - certificate of registration - required.

A. No person shall solicit contributions for any religious purpose within King County without a certificate of registration issued by the director, except that this section shall not apply to solicitations by any religious organization conducted among the members thereof by other officers or members voluntarily and without remuneration for making such solicitations, or to solicitations for or collections of contributions at the regular assemblies, meetings or services of such organizations. Application for a certificate shall be made to the director upon forms provided by the director. Such an application shall be sworn to or affirmed, and shall contain the following information, or in lieu thereof, a statement of the reason or reasons why such information cannot be furnished:

1. The name and local address or headquarters of the person applying for the certificate;

2. If applicant is not an individual, the names and addresses of the applicant's principal officers and managers and a copy of the resolution, if any, authorizing such solicitation, certified to as a true and correct copy of the original by the officer having charge of applicant's records;

3. The purpose for which such solicitation is to be made, the total amount of funds proposed to be raised thereby and the use or disposition to be made of any receipts therefrom;

4. The name and address of the person or persons by whom the receipts of the solicitation shall be disbursed;

5. The name and address of the person or persons who will be in direct charge of conducting the solicitation and the names of all promoters connected or to be connected with the proposed solicitation;

6. An outline of the method to be used in conducting the solicitation;

7. The time when such solicitation shall be made, giving the dates for the beginning and ending of such solicitations;

8. The estimated cost of the solicitation;

9. The amount of any wages, fees, commissions, expenses or emoluments to be expended or paid to any person in connection with such solicitations, and the names and addresses of all such persons;

10. A financial statement for the last preceding fiscal year of any funds solicited by the applicant for religious purposes from the public pursuant to a certificate of registration hereunder, said statements giving the amount of money so raised, together with the cost of raising it, and final distribution thereof;

11. A detailed statement of the religious work being done by the applicant within King County;

12. A statement to the effect that the certificate will not be used or represented in any way as an endorsement by King County or by any department or officer thereof.

B. If, while any application is pending or during the term of any certificate granted thereon, there is any change in fact, policy or method that would alter the information given in the application, the applicant shall notify the director in writing thereof within twenty‑four hours after such a change. (Ord. 18728 § 90, 2018: Ord. 1603 § 19, 1973).

6.76.180 Religious solicitations - certificate of registration - regulations. Upon receipt of such application, the director shall issue the applicant a certificate of registration. The certificate shall remain in force and effect for a period of six months after the issuance thereof, and shall be renewed upon the expiration of this period upon the filing of a new application as provided for in K.C.C. 6.76.190. Certificates of registration shall bear the name and address of the person by whom the solicitation is to be made, the number of the certificate, the date issued and a statement that the certificate does not constitute an endorsement by King County or by any of its departments or officers of the purpose or the person conducting the solicitation. All persons to whom certificates of registration have been issued shall furnish credentials to their agents and solicitors in the same manner and subject to the same conditions as set forth in K.C.C. 6.76.100 relating to credentials to solicit for charitable purposes. No person shall solicit under any such certificate of registration without such credentials in the person's possession, and such person shall, upon demand, present these credentials to any person solicited or to the director or to any sheriff's deputy. (Ord. 18728 § 91, 2018: Ord. 1603 § 20, 1973).

6.76.190 Fraudulent misrepresentation and misstatements prohibited. It is unlawful for any person to directly or indirectly solicit contributions for any purpose by misrepresentation of the person's name, occupation, financial condition, social condition or residence, and no person shall make or perpetrate any other misstatement, misrepresentation, deception or fraud in connection with any solicitation of any contribution for any purpose in the King County or in any application or report filed in connection therewith. (Ord. 18728 § 92, 2018: Ord. 1603 § 21, 1973).

6.76.200 Violation - penalty. Any person who willfully violates any of the provisions of Sections 6.76.010 through 6.76.190 is, upon conviction thereof, punishable by a fine of not more than two hundred fifty dollars or by imprisonment in the county jail for a term of not more than ninety days, or by

both fine and imprisonment. (Ord. 1603 § 22, 1973).

6.76.210 Civil penalty. In addition to or as an alternative to any other penalty provided herein or by law any person who violates any provision of any business license ordinance shall be subject to a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars per violation to be directly assessed by the director. The director, in a reasonable manner, may vary the amount of the penalty assessed to consider the appropriateness of the penalty to the size of the business of the violator; the gravity of the violation; the number of past and present violations committed and the good faith of the violator in attempting to achieve compliance after notification of the violation. All civil penalties assessed will be enforced and collected in accordance with the procedure specified under this title. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 1, 1974).

6.76.220 Additional enforcement. Notwithstanding the existence or use of any other remedy, the director may seek legal or equitable relief to enjoin any acts or practices which constitute or will constitute a violation of any business license ordinance or other regulations herein adopted. (Ord. 1888 Art. IV § 2, 1974).

6.80 MARRIAGE LICENSES

Sections:

6.80.010 Fee.

6.80.020 Disposition of funds.

6.80.010 Fee. The fee for a marriage license, as authorized by RCW 26.04.160, 26.12.220, 36.18.010, 36.22.170 and 36.22.175, shall be $52.00. (Ord. 12919 § 1, 1997: Ord. 5220 § 1, 1980).

6.80.020 Disposition of funds. The county shall distribute the marriage license fees as follows. For each license sold:

A. King County fees:

1. $23.00 - King County general fund (RCW 36.18.010), of which $15.00 is to be used to fund family services (RCW 26.04.160;

2. $8.00 - King County family court fund (RCW 26.12.220), to be used to pay for expenses of family court under chapter 25.12 RCW; and

3. $2.00 - King County records preservations fund (RCW 36.22.170, to be deposited in the recorder's operational and maintenance fund for ongoing preservation of historical documents; and

B. State of Washington fees:

1. $10.00 - State of Washington Displaced Homemaker program (RCW 36.18.010), to be transmitted monthly to the state treasurer and deposited in the state general fund for the purposes of the displaced homemaker act, chapter 28B.04 RCW;

2. $5.00 - State of Washington Child Abuse program (RCW 36.18.010), to be transmitted monthly to the state treasurer for use and support of the prevention of child abuse and neglect activities;

3. $2.00 - State of Washington Records Preservation program (RCW 36.22.170), to be transmitted monthly to the state treasurer who shall distribute such funds to each county treasurer within the state in July of each year in accordance with the formula described in RCW 36.22.190 for ongoing preservation of historical documents of all county offices and departments; and

4. $2.00 - Surcharge for archives and records management (RCW 36.22.175), to be transmitted monthly to the state treasurer for deposit in the archives and records management account. (Ord. 17926 § 3, 2014: Ord. 15971 § 49, 2007: Ord. 12919 § 1-2, 1997: Ord. 5220 § 2, 1980).

6.84 SHOOTING RANGES

Sections:

6.84.020 Definitions.

6.84.030 License required.

6.84.040 Operating without a license prohibited.

6.84.050 Denial, suspension or revocation of license.

6.84.060 License fee.

6.84.070 License renewal.

6.84.080 Safety standards and specifications.

6.84.085 Liability.

6.84.090 Appeals.

6.84.095 Complaint process.

6.84.020 Definitions.

A. "Operator" means the operating license applicant, and any of its officers, directors, partners, or owners.

B. "Range" means any individual or group of firing positions for a specific shooting type.

C. "Range safety officer" means a person or persons appointed by the operators of a shooting sports facility to oversee the safe discharge of shotguns, rifles, or handguns in accordance with the safety specifications of this chapter and any additional safety specifications which may be adopted by the operators of the shooting sports facility.

D. "Shooting sports facility" means a facility designed and specifically delineated for safe shooting practice with firearms. Archery ranges are specifically excluded from this definition.

E. "Shooting types" means rifle, handgun or shotgun shooting. (Ord. 18728 § 93, 2018: Ord. 12551 § 1, 1996: Ord. 11563 § 2, 1994, Ord. 11177 § 4, 1993).

6.84.030 License required. The operators of all existing shooting sports facilities shall apply for an operating license no later than April 9, 1994. The operator of each new shooting sports facility shall apply for an operating license at the time of application for building permits or land use permits necessary for the new facility. The application shall be made on a form prescribed by the manager of the records and licensing services division. The records and licensing services division is authorized to issue such a license after a determination that the application is accurate and complete, and includes a notarized certification by the shooting sports facility operator that the facility meets commonly accepted shooting facility safety and design practices and will be operated in a manner which protects the safety of the general public. The records and licensing services division shall base its licensing determination on the review and concurrence of the King County departments of public safety and local services, permitting division or designees. This section shall not relieve the applicant of any obligation to obtain any other required land use or building permits or approvals, except shooting sports facilities in operation before January 9, 1994, shall not be required to seek new land use or building permits solely for issuance of a license. (Ord. 18791 § 49, 2018: Ord. 17420 § 15, 2012: Ord. 15971 § 50, 2007: Ord. 12551 § 2, 1996: Ord. 11177 § 5, 1993).

6.84.040 Operating without a license prohibited. No shooting sports facility shall operate without a license issued pursuant to this chapter, provided, that shooting sports facilities in existence prior to January 9, 1994 that have submitted required license applications before this same date may continue to operate without a license pending license application approval or denial per K.C.C. 6.84.030. (Ord. 12551 § 3, 1996: Ord. 11563 § 3, 1994, Ord. 11177 § 6, 1993).

6.84.050 Denial, suspension or revocation of license. The manager of the records and licensing services division may deny, suspend or revoke any license issued under this chapter, consistent with K.C.C. chapter 6.01, if the applicant, any of its officers, directors, partners, or members have violated any of the provisions of this chapter. Further, if the sheriff determines that any participant, spectator, neighboring property or member of the public has been injured or endangered as a result of range design, operation or management of shooting activities, the manager of the records and licensing services division may immediately suspend or revoke any shooting sports facility license issued pursuant to this chapter. Reinstatement or re-issuance of any license suspended or revoked pursuant to the provisions of this chapter will be contingent on review and determination by the records and licensing services division or its designee that the range operator has made sufficient and appropriate modifications to the design or operation of the facility to reasonably address the specific deficiencies found to have contributed to the injury or endangerment. (Ord. 15971 § 51, 2007: Ord. 12551 § 4, 1996: Ord. 11177 § 7, 1993).

6.84.060 License fee. A license fee of fifty dollars shall be charged for review and processing of the license application. (Ord. 12551 § 6, 1996: Ord. 11177 § 8, 1993).

6.84.070 License renewal. The operating license shall be reviewed and renewed every five years. New shooting types shall not be permitted until authorized by a new license. Applications for license renewal shall be made in writing on forms prescribed by the manager of the records and licensing services division at least thirty days prior to the expiration of the existing license. (Ord. 15971 § 52, 2007: Ord. 12551 § 7, 1996: Ord. 11177 § 9, 1993).

6.84.080 Safety standards and specifications. All shooting sports facilities licensed pursuant to this chapter shall comply with the following safety standards and specifications:

A. All structures, installations, operations, and activities shall be located at such a distance from property lines as will protect off-site properties from hazard, when the ranges are used in accordance with range safety rules and practices.

B. Range site design features and safety procedures shall be installed and maintained to discourage errant rounds from escaping all shooting positions, when such positions are used in accordance with range safety rules and practices.

C. A plan shall be submitted with the license application which shows the location of all buildings, parking areas and access points; safety features of the firing range; elevations of the range showing target area, backdrops or butts; and approximate location of buildings on adjoining properties.

D. A safety plan shall be submitted which cites rules for each range, sign-in procedures, and restrictions on activities in the use of ranges, and every safety plan shall prohibit loaded firearms except as provided by the range safety specifications and operating procedures.

E. All shooting sports facilities shall have a designated range safety officer. A range safety officer must be present whenever the shooting sports facility is open to the public and may oversee as many as three simultaneous public events within a shooting sports facility.

F. Where urban residentially zoned property or residential streets are located adjacent to property containing an outdoor shooting sports facility, warning signs shall be installed and maintained along the shooting sports facility property line.

G. Shooting sports facilities shall be used for the shooting activities they were designed to accommodate unless redesigned to safely accommodate new shooting activities.

H. The range operator shall report in writing to the manager of the records and licensing services division all on-site and off-site gunshot wounds resulting from activity at the shooting sports facility.

I. All shooting sports facilities shall provide a telephone available to range participants and spectators for the purpose of contacting emergency medical services.

J. A first-aid kit approved by the manager of the records and licensing services division shall be readily available at each shooting sports facility for emergency treatment or care of minor injuries. (Ord. 18728 § 94, 2018: Ord. 15971 § 53, 2007: Ord. 12551 § 8, 1996: Ord. 11177 § 10, 1993).

6.84.085 Liability. The express intent of the King County council is that responsibility for complete and accurate preparation of applications, plans and specifications for compliance with applicable laws, including but not limited to those set forth in this chapter, and for safe design, construction, use and operation of facilities regulated herein shall rest exclusively with applicants and their agents.

This chapter and the codes adopted herein are intended to protect the health, safety and welfare of the general public and are not intended to protect any particular class of individuals or organizations.

This chapter shall not be construed as placing responsibility for code compliance or enforcement upon King County or any officer, employee or agent of King County. Application review and inspections conducted pursuant to this chapter are intended to foster and encourage compliance, but are not guarantees or assurances either that any design, construction, use or operation complies with applicable laws or that the facility is safely designed, constructed, used or operated.

Nothing in this chapter is intended to create any private right of action based upon noncompliance with any of the requirements of this chapter. (Ord. 12551 § 9, 1996: Ord. 11563 § 4, 1994).

6.84.090 Appeals. Any person aggrieved by a decision in a notice and order issued pursuant to King County Code 6.01.130 or by a license suspension or revocation issued pursuant to the provisions of this chapter, may file an appeal pursuant to King County Code 6.01.150. (Ord. 12551 § 10, 1996: Ord. 11177 § 11, 1993).

6.84.095 Complaint process.

A. Upon receiving a written complaint involving the operation or activities of any shooting sports facility, the manager of records and licensing services division shall cause the following to be performed:

1. Issue a notice of complaint to the shooting sports facility operator advising such person of the allegation(s) made in the complaint;

2. Request the shooting sports facility operator to respond, in writing, to the allegation(s) in the notice of complaint within thirty days of receipt of the notice of complaint;

3. Investigate the allegation or allegations in the written complaint and the response submitted by the shooting sports facility operator;

4. Make a finding as to the validity of the allegation or allegations in the written complaint. If it is found that violation of any of the shooting sports facility safety standards has occurred, issue a notice and order pursuant to the process described in K.C.C. 6.01.130.

B. Failure to comply with the notice and order issued as a result of the above process will result in the suspension and/or revocation of the license involved. Such a suspension/revocation will last one year from the date the license is surrendered.

C. Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit authority to issue a notice and order or take such enforcement or investigative actions deemed appropriate to protect the public's health and safety. (Ord. 15971 § 54, 2007: Ord. 12551 § 5, 1996).