City of Kent
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Accessibility & Accommodation
The City of Kent fosters an inclusive and accessible environment for everyone who lives and works here.
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Adaptive Recreation
Find adaptive and accessible recreation programs.
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Adopt-A-Spot Program
Help reduce litter in Kent's public spaces through the Adopt-A-Spot program! Commit to a spot or a block to help keep your city clean and beautiful.
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Adopt-A-Street Program
Keep Kent safe and beautiful by joining efforts to clean up your community. Through the Adopt-a-Street program, your organization helps improve the city's appearance, while preventing pollution from entering the waterways.
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Affordable Housing
Finding housing in Kent can be a challenge. Learn how you can find affordable housing.
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Art Exhibits
See art from local artists in our very own Centennial Gallery.
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Artist Grants & Opportunities
Find opportunities to show your artwork. Apply for a grant to fund your project, or to serve in the Arts Commission.
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Arts Commission
Engage with the community by establishing cultural opportunities and arts education. Enrich Kent's aesthetic environment by serving on the Arts Commission.
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Bicycle Advisory Board
Support better conditions for bicyclists by participating on the Bicycle Advisory Board.
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Cable Franchise Management
The City of Kent collects a small franchise fee of gross revenues from the cable companies for using the public's right-of-way.
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Carpool or vanpool
Find your shared ride to work or school through King County's Metro rideshare programs.
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Certificate of Water Availability/Fire Flow Information
You can get information on Hydraulic Modeling, Water Flow Rate, Fire Flow, Water Availability, Certificate of Fire Flow, and PSI data through our Economic Community Development Department.
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Chief Administrative Officer
The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) oversees the day-to-day operations of the City. The CAO serves between the department directors and the City Council.
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Choose Kent Valley
Kent Valley is a leading technology and manufacturing hub. Learn more about the specialized workforce, convenient location and advanced manufacturing expertise it offers.
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Christmas Rush 10K run & 5K run/walk
For the holidays, join the fun at the starting line at the Christmas Rush Fun Run and Walk! Run along the scenic Green River. Awards are given out for each age group after the race.
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City Attorney
Kent's Law Department is responsible for all litigation involving the City and prosecutes criminal misdemeanor cases, infractions and code violations.
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City Clerk
The City Clerk oversees the administration of City Council meetings, including agenda development and recording and preparation of official minutes. The Clerk also provides legal notices, coordinates local elections, and serves as the custodian of the Kent City Code and public records requests.
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City Contracts and Agendas
Search for City contracts, agendas and minutes.
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City Council
The seven-member council is the legislative body for the City of Kent. The Council forms policies and regulations, as well as approving the City's budgets.
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City Limits Tool
Find if your property is within City limits by entering your street address.
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Civil Division
The Law Department advises and represents all city elected and appointed officials, employees, boards, committees, task forces, and commissions on all civil legal matters pertaining to the City of Kent.
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Civil Service Commission
Adopt and enforce regulations for police personnel matters by serving on the Civil Service Commission.
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Code Enforcement
Code Enforcement's job is to help keep Kent safe and beautiful.
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Commercial Building Permits
Get permits for new commercial buildings, additions and alterations, as well as plumbing and mechanical permits.
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Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program
The Community Development Block Grant program develops workable urban communities. It funds eligible low/moderate-income activities that benefit Kent residents, such as a suitable living environment and economic opportunities.
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Community Education
Get involved to prevent crime in your community. Volunteer with the Kent PD. Join a neighborhood Block Watch, Community Police Academy, or get together for National Night Out.
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Community Garden
Reserve a plot in Kent's organic Community Garden! Garden sustainably by using organic methods and products.
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Connect on Social Media
Get the latest news, information, events and resources on the City of Kent's social media pages.
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Court Recordings
Listen to audio Court recordings.
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Cultural Communities Board
Increase engagement, integration and access to city services for all cultural communities. Apply to serve on the Cultural Communities Board.
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Cultural Programs
Our Cultural Arts division offers a colorful spectrum of activities and events. There's something for everyone, whether they're concerts or youth art activities.
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Current Neighborhood Councils
Use this interactive map to see current neighborhood councils.
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Data and Maps
Kent's GeoPortal provides open spatial data and mapping tools.
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Disability Board
The Disability Board is for Law Enforcement Officers and Fire Fighters (LEOFF1). It reviews and approves all medical and disability claims from the LEOFF1 retirement system.
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Download Mobile App
Report non-emergency issues, request a service, and find information about the City of Kent with the KentWorks app.
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Downtown Parking
Find free parking in downtown Kent.
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Drainage Utility and Stormwater Management
Learn how pollution in stormwater affects you. Do your part to dispose waste properly and keep your water system safe.
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Drinking Water Services
Kent's Water division operates the water system to make sure your water is safe to drink and use. It also maintains the water system throughout the City.
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DUI Court
Find rehabilitation through DUI Court while preventing future DUI offenses.
Go - Economic & Community Development
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Electronic Permit Applications
Make an appointment with the Permit Center to get Building Permits, Engineering & Utility Permits, Land Use/Environmental Permits, Fire Prevention Permits, and permits for residential work.
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Emergency Management
Puget Sound Fire provides emergency management services for natural disasters and technological hazards around the City of Kent.
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Employee Benefits
Find out about employee perks, from medical benefits to retirement and wellness. View holiday closures here.
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Engineering Permits
Get permits for utilities, streets and right-of-way, grading and civil construcitons.
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Environmental
The Environmental division oversees flood control, the City's water quality, and fish and wildlife habitat protection. It also promotes resource conservation and pollution reduction.
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Event Calendar
Find City-wide events on our event calendar.
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Fats, Oils and Grease
Dispose fats, oils and greases properly instead of pouring them down the drain. Follow these tips to prevent sewer line blockages.
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Filing for divorce
View instructions on how to file for a divorce.
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Finance
The Finance department manages the City of Kent's budget, as well as handling strategies for making business decisions. We provide information on utility rates and billing, as well as city taxes and business licenses, and the City's budget reports.
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Find your court date
Find out when you need to appear in Court.
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Fire Department
The Puget Sount Regional Fire Authority serves Kent, Covington, Maple Valley, SeaTac, King County Fire District #37 and King County Fire District #43.
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Fire Prevention Permits
Get fire prevention permits from the Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority for items like fire sprinklers, alarm systems and systems using hazardous materials.
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Flood Warning & Alerts
View Green River Flooding Information.
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Floodplains
Find flood resources and FEMA elevation certificates.
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Food, Utilities & Medical Resources
Find resources for food, utilities assistance and medical care.
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Fourth of July Splash
Join the community for games, activties and fun at this annual Fourth of July event! Watch a dazzling display of fireworks to end the night.
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Getting married
Follow these steps to get a marriage license in King County.
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Grants & Opportunities for Artists
Find opportunities to show your work. Apply for a grant to fund your project, or to serve in the Arts Commission.
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Green River Natural Resources Area
The Green River Natural Resources Area is a wildlife sanctuary in Kent. Access the trails or the viewing towers for some bird-watching.
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Historical Society Kent
Learn about Kent's history.
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Housing Resources
Whether you're looking for affordable housing or you're a first-time home buyer, this resource guide is a one-stop shop for your housing needs.
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How to start your restaurant
Follow these steps to open a restaurant, from planning to getting permits and licenses.
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How to Vote
King County sends ballots by mail 20 days before the election. View tips for voting.
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Human Resources
Find information related to City jobs.
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Human Services Commission
Address human service needs and promote community awareness in Kent. Make human service policy recommendations to the Mayor by serving on the Human Services Commission.
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Interactive Control Map
Use the Survey Control Map as a self-serve location or as a initial viewpoint. This map serves as a graphic aid only, and not a survey.
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Jury Service
If you've been summoned to appear as a juror, follow these steps.
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Kent 101
This free eight-week civics course dives into how our City operates as a local government. Apply today!
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Kent Commons Community Center
Visit Kent Commons and sign up for fitness classes or use our weight room.
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Kent Cornucopia Days 5k Run/Walk
Run or walk our annual 5k Kent Cornucopia race! Awards are given to the top finishers in each age group, as well as overall winners.
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Kent Housing Options Plan
Find out how Kent meets the growing demand for housing.
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Kent Kids' Art Day
Young artists from preschool to fourth grade can enjoy a full day of hands-on art projects lead by professional artists.
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Kent Student Art Exhibit
The annual Kent Student Art Exhibit features artwork by our young creative members of our community.
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Kent Summer Concert Series
Find weekly summer concerts in Morrill Meadows Park, Kent Station, and Lake Meridian Park.
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Kent Traffic School
Traffic School is currently closed. Please check back at a later date.
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Kent TV21
Watch City council meetings, workshops and committees on our very own Kent TV21 channel! We also highlight events, people, places, and services in Kent.
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Kent Youth Call-to-Action
The Kent Youth Call to Action is an initiative that ensures that kids are safe and can access to culturally-responsive programs and services.
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Kent's Free Circulating Shuttle
The free 914 DART shuttle connects riders from downtown Kent to the East Hill. View stops and schedules.
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King County Elections
Find information on how to vote, election results, and information about candidates and measures.
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Land Survey/GIS
Use these land surveying and mapping services to support capital improvement projects, resource management, and more.
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Land Use & Environmental Permits
Find guidelines and applications for land use and environmental permits.
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Land Use & Planning Board
Hold hearings on city codes, comprehensive plan updates, and topics associated with Long Range Planning functions.
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Land Use Notices of Application
Use this interactive map to see current construction projects and building developments throughout Kent.
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Law Department
Kent's Law Department litigates for the City and prosecutes criminal misdeanor cases, infractions and code violations.
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LEOFF Benefits
Learn about benefits for Law Enforcement Officers and Fire Fighters.
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Lifeline Utility Rate Reduction Program
Reduced utility rates are available if you're a senior citizen or permanently disabled. Your household income must be less than federal limits. Find out if you're eligible.
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Light Rail & Train
Find routes, maps and schedules for the Link light rail and Sounder train.
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Local Rules
Review the Munipical Court local rules.
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Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee reviews grant applications for funding. It also makes recommendations to the Kent City Council about spending the revenue generated from the lodging tax.'
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Lodging Tax Grant
The Lodging Tax Grant funds the marketing, operation and promotion of activities, events or projects that promote Kent both as a business or leisure destination. By doing so, this ultimately brings more people and economic activity to the city.
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Metro Bus and Shuttle Services
Plan a trip with the King County Metro bus system. Find bus routes and advisories, plus fares, how to get an Orca pass, and more.
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Minor Utility Work
Contractors performing small projects for Puget Sound Energy, Comcast and Lumen can report upcoming job-starts here.
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Mitigation by Mail Form
Fill this form out if you committed the infraction(s) but you believe the facts or circumstances justify a reduced fine(s).
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National Night Out
Get together with your neighbors for a night to give crime a going-away party.
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National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
Learn how the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination Program reduces pollution with stormwater management.
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Natural Yard Care
Protect your City's water supply with these landscaping and gardening techniques.
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Neighborhood Councils
Use this interactive map to find recognized neighborhood councils.
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Neighborhood Grant Program
Get matching funds for your neighborhood to improve projects and livability in your community.
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Neighborhood Program
Recognized Neighborhood Councils improve communication and livability by giving residents a chance to be a part of the civic process.
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Office of the Mayor
The Mayor of Kent works with a seven-member council to serve residents and businesses, and prepares the biennial operating and capitol budgets.
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Open Enrollment
Find updates for health insurance plans for the upcoming year.
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Parks & Recreation Commission
The Parks and Recreation Commission advocates support and improvement for Kent's park system and recreational activities.
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Parks Open Space Plan
Use the Parks and Open Space Plan tool to tell us how you use the parks in Kent.
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Parks Operations
We maintain all of Kent's parks and trails, and support other divisions within the Parks, Recreation & Community Services department.
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Permit Center Application Form
If you're submitting a new permit application, fill this form out to make an intake appointment.
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Permit Logs
Find information about issued building and development permits in the City of Kent.
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Plan your next trip
Use the King County Metro trip planner to get to your destination.
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Plastic Bag Ordinance
Banning plastic bags reduces pollution, litter and waste. Find out which bags are okay to use when you shop.
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Police - Non-Emergency Number
This is the non-emergency phone number for the Kent Police Department. This non-emergency number will connect callers to Valley Communications. This is not the Kent Police Department physical headquarters phone number.
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Pre-hearing Conference by Mail
By requesting this type of hearing, you're telling the Court that you didn't commit the infraction(s).
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Private Drainage
Manage stormwater on your property with routine inspections.
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Property Tax
Pay your property tax online.
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Public Art
Find public artwork throughout Kent with our interactive map.
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Public Defender Screening
If you cannot afford an attorney, find out if you're eligible for a public defender at the Kent Municipal Court.
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Public Works
Public Works maintains the City's infrastructure and transportation network, while protecting the natural environment. We also focus on water quality, wastewater collection and waste disposal.
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Puget Sound Fire
The Puget Sount Regional Fire Authority serves Kent, Covington, Maple Valley, SeaTac, King County Fire District #37 and King County Fire District #43.
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Rebates for water-saving toilets and washing machines
Get money back when you save water by replacing your toilet or washing machine.
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Recycling Collection Events
Dispose your recyclable items that aren't always accepted at the curb for free! Find a recycling collection event every spring, summer, and fall, and drop off your items.
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Recycling Information Line
Your recycling service in Kent is provided by Republic Services. Know what to recycle with this handy guide.
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Reduced Transit Fares
Get to where you need to with reduced fares using the ORCA Lift card! Find out if you're eligible and apply.
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Rent & Utility Assistance
If you're in need, register for rent and utility assitance.
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Rental Housing Inspection Program
The Rental Housing Inspection Program ensures that landlords keep their properties safe for tenants to live. Properties must go through periodic health and safety inspections.
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Rentals – Park Shelters, Rooms, and Fields
Rent a park shelter, sports field or athletic complex.
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Report Street Flooding
Report street flooding through our KentWorks app.
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Report traffic safety concerns
Our Residential Traffic Calming Program addresses traffic safety concerns and helps reduce speeds in your neighborhood. Learn more about the steps to make residential streets safer for everyone, and submit a request.
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Reports and Other Documents
Explore the City's financial reports and budgets.
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Request for Accessibility Accommodation
Submit an accessibility request for issues such as curb ramps, plus access to buildings, facilities and programs.
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Request for Accommodation
Submit an accessibility request for issues such as curb ramps, plus access to buildings, facilities and programs.
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Residential Building Permits
Get permits for new residential buildings, additions and alterations, as well as plumbing, re-roof and mechanical permits.
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Residential Mechanical Permit Application
If you're installing mechanical equipment, including gas piping, fill this permit application form out.
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Residential Parking Zone Permit
Apply for a valid parking permit in a designated public area.
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Residential Parking Zone Permit - Property Management
Property management and owners can request residential parking permits for tenants.
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Residential Plumbing Permit Application
Fill this permit application form out if you're removing or replacing plumbing or fixtures in the same location without removing any surfaces (gypsum, framing, etc.). This includes hot water tank replacements.
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Residential Reroof Permit Application
If you're removing or installing materials on a roof, fill this permit application out.
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Riverbend Golf Complex
Find recreational activities for every skill level and age group on this 18-hole golf course.
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Schedule an Inspection
Request an inspection for construction work.
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School Zone Speed and Red Light Photo Enforcement Program
The photo enforcement cameras aims to reduce traffic speeds and collisions, while increasing safety for children, pedestrians, cyclists and other drivers.
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Senior Activity Center
Our Senior Activity Center hosts programs for our senior residents.
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Serve on a Board or Commission
Get involved in local government by applying to a Board or Commission.
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Sewage backup, sewer main problems
Report any sewer backups, odors, or sewer main problems through our KentWorks app.
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Sewer
Kent's sewer system disposes wastewater from sinks, toilets, and other fixtures. Learn how sewers work, and do your part to keep them running smoothly.
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Sewer As-Builts
Find record drawings of your home's sewer line by contacting Economic and Community Development.
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Special Events Center Public Facilities District (PFD) Board Of Directors
The PFD Board ensures the funding directed by the PDF sales tax is used to only pay debt service on accesso ShoWare Center construction bonds.
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Sports Rainout Line
Call after 4 p.m. to check the status of ballfields.
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Spotlight Series
Find concert and performances.
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Spring/Fall Curbside Clean Up
Get rid of extra yard waste and garbage for free! Every spring and fall, you can simply put your extra waste out on the curb for pickup.
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Storm Drainage and Flooding
Kent's Storm Drainage division maintains the City's stormwater and flood drainage systems. Learn how we reduce flood risk while managing stormwater for the City.
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Stormwater Best Management Practices
Improve our water resources by following stormwater best management practices for your property.
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Street Light Repair
If you find a broken or burnt out street light, submit a service request through our KentWorks app.
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Street Sweeping
Visit our Street Maintenance Division page to find information about street sweeping in Kent.
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Streets
Kent's Streets division maintains and repairs all public streets, signs and markings.
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Transportation
The Transportation division is responsible for planning the flow of traffic and developing the local transportation network for our growing city.
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Transportation Master Plan
Learn how the City plans to accommodate transportation needs for our growing community.
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Tree blocking a traffic signal or sign
Report a tree or other vegetation blocking a traffic light or sign.
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Trees or vegetation in the Power Lines - PSE Puget Sound Energy
If you see trees or vegetation in the powerlines, contact Puget Sound Energy.
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VIPS Volunteers in Police Service
Assist the Kent Police in community services and events. Join the Volunteers in Police Service!
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Virtual Court Proceedings
Kent Municipal Court uses Zoom for virtual court hearings. Appearing by video is highly encouraged for most matters. View instructions on how to appear by Zoom.
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Volunteer Conservation Events with Kent Parks
Help keep our City healthy and green by volunteering with Kent Parks! Plant trees and remove weeds to restore Kent's green spaces.
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Watch City Council Meetings
Watch City council meetings, workshops and committees.
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Water Operations
Kent's Water division operates the water system to make sure your water is safe to drink and use. It also maintains the water system throughout the City.
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Water Quality Survey
Take this survey about Kent's water quality.
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When to call 911 vs. the non-emergency line
Know when to report emergencies and less critical situations.
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Winter Weather Plan
Find tips on preparing for the winter. Learn what the City does for snow and ice response, maintaining roads, communications and public safety during inclement weather.
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Winterfest
For an entire month, celebrate the holidays with festivities throughout Kent.
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Zoning Maps
Use zoning, utilities and road maps to help plan your project.
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Emergency Preparedness
Sign up for Drive Kent Alerts: Flood Recovery Help for Kent Residents and Businesses
As the floodwaters continue to recede, we are now moving from emergency response into recovery. Our priority is your safety and making sure you have access to help.
Stay Informed
Sign up to receive emails from the Kent Flood Recovery team . Get information about resources available to residents and businesses.
Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA)
Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) is now available to eligible workers, including self-employed people. To qualify, you need to have become unemployed due to this disaster and not otherwise qualify for unemployment benefits. To qualify for DUA, you must have had at least 1 week of unemployment after the date of the disaster. You can claim DUA only for weeks when the disaster interrupted your main source of income. You also need to meet additional requirements. Learn more and apply here: https://esd.wa.gov/get-financial-help/federal-disaster-unemployment-assistance-dua-program
The deadline to apply for DUA benefits for this disaster is Monday, June 8, 2026.
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FEMA funding for eligible flood properties
The federal government approved Washington’s request for a federal disaster declaration for the December 2025 Floods. This is a new and separate process from previous Washington State individual assistance programs. If you were affected by the December 2025 storms, we encourage you review this additional resource.
The deadline to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance and SBA assistance is June 10, 2026.
People who suffered disaster-related damage in King, Chelan, Grays Harbor, Lewis, Pacific, Pierce, Skagit, Snohomish, Thurston, or Whatcom counties, or one of the affected tribal communities may qualify.
Apply for FEMA assistance in any of the following ways:
- Online: disasterassistance.gov
- Phone: (800) 621-3362
- Download and use the FEMA app
- In person at a Disaster Recover Center (DAC) - see more details below
Renton Disaster Assistance Center (DAC)
Location: King County Elections, 919 Southwest Grady Way, Renton, Washington 98057
Time Frame: Beginning on April 28 through June 10, 2026
Hours: Weekly from 8:00am to 5:00pm, Tuesday to Friday
What: Staff from FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loan programs, and Washington State will be able to assist with applications. In addition to helping with paperwork, staff can guide residents through options for both federal and state aid tied to disaster recovery.
Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI
For more information, here is a link to the FEMA press release.
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Low-Interest Federal Disaster Loans Available - Applications deadline extend to June 10, 2026
If you are located in King County and were affected by the December 2025 winter storm and flooding you may be eligible for a disaster assistance loan through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
Apply Online by June 10, 2026!
Who Is Eligible?
- Businesses may borrow money to repair or replace business assets or take an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) to weather losses due to business disruptions.
- Homeowners can borrow up to $500,000 to repair or replace disaster damaged real estate and personal property. Additional loan amounts may be eligible, based on SBA criteria.
- Renters are eligible for up to $100,000 in loans to replace personal property.
- Non-profits can borrow funds to repair or replace damaged property or take EIDLs to cover operating expenses they are unable to meet due to the disaster.
When is the Application Due?
- April 27, 2026, for property damage
- November 24, 2026 ,for economic injury
Information that may be needed when applying for a loan includes:
- Name and address of the damaged property
- Contact information for all applicants and/or owners
- Social Security numbers of all applicants
- Insurance policy details, including the agent or carrier contact information and any claims that have been filed
- Lease agreement information for renters
Need Help Applying?
- The Auburn Library and Fall City Library are hosting SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Centers to assist with application questions.
- Call the SBA Customer Service Center at 800–659–2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.
- For people who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability, please dial 711 to access telecommunications relay services.
Learn More and Apply online at https://lending.sba.gov/search-disaster/?disaster=WA-20025.
For more information, read the SBA Media Release.
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Stay Safe After Flooding
Floodwater can be dangerous. It may contain germs or chemicals. Mold can grow within 1–2 days. Be careful when returning to your home or business.
King County Public Health offers guidance on:
- Safe cleanup steps
- Mold cleanup and protective gear
- What items are safe to keep or throw away
- Lead and asbestos safety
- Emotional and mental health support
- Information in multiple languages
Learn more:
Tax and Property Relief
Some people and businesses may qualify for help with taxes or property values.
This may include:
- Extra time to file taxes
- Waived penalties
- Possible property value reductions
Washington Department of Revenue – Disaster Relief:
https://dor.wa.gov/about/news-releases/2025/disaster-relief-resources-available-flood-impacted-businesses-and-individuals
Watch Out for Contractor Scams
After floods, some people pretend to be contractors and take money without doing the work. Before hiring anyone:
- Check that the contractor is registered, bonded, and insured
Verify a contractor:
https://www.protectmyhome.net
Report fraud:
https://www.lni.wa.gov/ReportAContractor
Help for Businesses, Workers, and Finances
You may find help through these programs:
Employment Security supports employers and workers impacted by the December historic flooding.
- Temporary layoffs: If a business is closed due to the disaster, Employment Security has supports available. Learn more about temporary layoffs and furloughs.
- Standby: Individuals and employers affected by a natural disaster can request to be placed on standby. Learn how to request standby.
- SharedWork: The SharedWork program may help employers retain employees at reduced hours. When an employer applies, employees may be eligible to receive partial unemployment to bridge the pay gap. Learn how to apply for SharedWork.
- Relief of benefit charges: An employer may qualify for relief of benefit charges from Employment Security following an emergency. Read about removing benefit charges.
- Penalty waiver: If an employer is late filing their quarterly report and payment due to a disaster, the employer may be entitled to having penalties waived. Learn how to request a penalty waiver.
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City of Kent – Business Help
https://www.kentwa.gov/guides/business-assistance -
Small Business Administration (SBA)
https://www.sba.gov/disaster -
Washington Department of Commerce
https://www.commerce.wa.gov -
Washington Labor & Industries
https://www.lni.wa.gov -
Disaster Assistance (Federal)
https://www.disasterassistance.gov -
Washington Emergency Management
https://mil.wa.gov/for-individuals-households-businesses
Help for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Residents
The Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing offers flood recovery information and case management.
- Video Phone: 360-200-0457
- Voice/TTY: 800-422-7930
- Voice: 360-725-3450
- Email: odhh.cms@dshs.wa.gov
- Web: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/odhh/office-deaf-and-hard-hearing-case-management-services
City Updates and Emergency Information
For current updates and safety information:
Ready-Set-Go
With the flooding situation evolving, we want residents to be prepared in case flooding occurs in your neighborhood. It’s important to be prepared now is a good time to check out our Ready-Set-Go guidance on and we encourage you to sign up for King County alerts.
The Ready-Set-Go set into three stages.
(Level 1) BE READY—Prepare Now
Take these steps as soon as possible:
- Stay informed
- Protect your property
- Talk with your household and neighbor
- Pack and prepare to leave quickly
- Medications
- Pets
- Documents
- Essentials
- Phones/Phone chargers
- Monitor city social media, websites and local media for up-to-date information
- Additional routes may flood or close with little notice. Check current alerts before travelling.
(Level 2) GET SET-Be ready to act
Be on heightened alert if:
- The river continues to rise toward your property
- The City of Kent, King County or emergency officials issue additional warnings.
- You see water ponding in your yard or driveway, or around access routes
- You should begin planning a safe location where you and your loved ones can evacuate to
During this phase:
- Keep vehicles fueled and parked facing out for a quick departure
- Keep your to-go kit and any essential items by the door
- Avoid walking or driving through standing water and do not go around “Road Closed” or “High Water” signs
- Be prepared to leave quickly if conditions worsen or if you are asked to evacuate.
(Level 3) GO- Leave if Conditions Become Unsafe
Leave the area immediately if:
- Water is approaching your home, garage or access road
- Emergency officials direct you to evacuate
- Take only essential items:
- Medications, important documents, pets, and essentials
- Phone and charger
- Move vehicles to higher ground only if it is safe to do so
- You feel unsafe remaining in place for any reason
When in doubt, error on the side of safety. Remember:
- Turn around, don’t drown
- Just a few inches of moving water can sweep a vehicle off the road, and the depth and speed of floodwater can be deceptive
- Use higher, alternate routes if possible, and never drive around barricades or through flooded sections
- Conditions can change rapidly and could worsen with little warning.
If you need emergency evacuation assistance, call 911
Continue to monitor official City of Kent updates.
Flood Alerts & Information
Mentally Prepare
Emergencies can be a stressful and shocking time for even the most calm or experienced people. That is why it is so important that you plan ahead. By the time that disaster does strike, you should already know what to do and be ready to react quickly.
Physically Prepare
The creation of an emergency supply kit is crucial to maintaining safety, health, and comfort during an emergency situation. In case of a disaster, you may need to shelter in place or evacuate quickly. If this happens, you will not have the time to find all your vitally important possessions or remember everything that you may need for an extended period. That is why you must create a kit ahead of time: so that when you really need, it you are ready to leave as soon as possible without forgetting important items.
Winterize Your Vehicle
Driving is dangerous. Despite being a mundane part of life driving can become a disaster at any moment. During the winter months this danger increases as temperature drops. Rain, snow, ice, and wind can turn a standard car trip into one with many unseen hazards. In order to protect yourself, and the vehicles around you, you should prepare yourself and your vehicle for the challenges of the season and high-risk weather events.
See more winter weather tips at: Winter Weather Plan | City of Kent (kentwa.gov)