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1. Permit Application Process

We now have an online application system called CSS (Customer Self-Service).

• Register for an account (top right hand side of page, click on "Guest")
  
• You will be sent a registration email - if you do not receive the email please check your spam/junk folder. 
  If you still do not receive the email within a day, please email us and let us know at: ComDev.Info@CityofBG.org
• For permits requiring plans - you will need to submit a digital copy on CSS and one physical plan delivered to our office. 
  Please include the permit number assigned to your project when you bring in or mail physical copies to the address under "Contact Us".
• Please visit our Building Application page for more information on application types and submittal requirements.

2. Contractor Requirements

• Contractors must have a Battle Ground Business License or Endorsement and specialty licensing through Labor & Industries. 
• If the contractor needs information regarding their Department of Revenue Licensing, they can apply for it online at: https://dor.wa.gov/
  If there are any questions give the Vancouver DOR office a call; they are very helpful.
  Vancouver Department of Revenue
  8008 NE Fourth Plain Blvd #320, Vancouver, WA 98662
  (360) 256-2060
• Labor and Industries – You can check contractor licensing at: https://secure.lni.wa.gov/verify/
  
  
  • Electrical permits and inspections are handled through Labor and Industries.
    Labor and Industries Department
    312 SE Stone Mill Drive Ste 120
    Vancouver, WA 98/684
    (360) 896-2300

3. Zoning Information (Lot coverage limits, setbacks, etc)

• Zoning information ie: Lot coverage (how much building square footage – including sheds, tiny homes, etc. – you can have on your property), setbacks (how far your home and accessory structures need to be away from each other and fence/property lines), etc.
  • You can find information by going to the Clark County GIS Property Information Center and searching for your address or parcel number (also known as the “Tax Account”)
  • The Account page shows Subdivision information: 
    

• The “Codes” link directs you to the Battle Ground Municipal Code webpage, which provides additional information regarding your property’s zoning district.
  
• Click on “Residential Districts”
   
• The Battle Ground Municipal Code page provides a variety of information regarding building in Battle Ground. Setbacks and lot coverage are located in 17.106.030 'Dimensional requirements'.
  
• If you have any questions regarding Title 17 in our Municipal Code, please contact: Planning@CityOfBG.org for more information.

4. Critical Area Information

If you have critical areas, or would just like more information regarding them, please see our Environmental Protection page. 

5. Accessory Structures

• Accessory structures may include detached garage, detached carport, patio cover, deck, woodshed, utility building, or gazebo.
  • One story accessory structures such as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses do not require a permit provided that the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet and is less than 12 feet in height.  
  • If the accessory structure is used for tools, storage, a play house, greenhouse, hothouse or similar use, a permit is not required.
  • Please see the Battle Ground Municipal Code, section 17.135.015 for more information or our Accessory Structure Handout for easy reference.
• The Residential Submittal Requirements Checklist (2^ndpage of building application) provides an itemized checklist of documents required for review at the time of submittal. 
  • Additional forms are provided in the building permit application packet which are not required for small projects. For example: 
    • Soil Management worksheets and an Erosion Control example. If you have any questions regarding these documents, please contact: Engineering.Inspectors@CityOfBG.org
    • 2018 Washington State Energy Code worksheets: If you have any questions regarding these documents, please contact: Building.Inspection2@CityOfBG.org
• Documents must be filled out and uploaded to the portal at the time of application.
  • Currently we require one physical copy of full-size (24"x36"), to-scale architectural plans. 
  • One physical copy each of all other documents.
• Applying for a permit see: "Permit Application Process"

6. ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit), Custom Built

• An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is either attached to the main home or detached on the property. Please see the Battle Ground Municipal Code, Section 17.135.010 ADUs are attached or detached homes with their own kitchen and living spaces. They allow homeowners the flexibility of separate living quarters to care for family or provide companionship and safety. They also increase the supply of affordable housing units.
• Documents must be filled out and uploaded to the portal at the time of application.
  • ADUs
    • The Residential Submittal Requirements Checklist (2^ndpage of building application) provides an itemized checklist of documents required for review at the time of submittal. 
      • Soil Management worksheets and an Erosion Control example are not required for ADUs built within the existing footprint of the home. If you have any questions regarding these documents, please contact: Engineering.Inspectors@CityOfBG.org
    • Currently we require one physical copy (24"x36"), to-scale architectural plans.
    • One physical copy of all other documents.
  • Pre-fabricated ADUs
    • Please see "ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit), Pre-fabricated" for the appropriate application & documentation requirements.
• Design Standards
  • Design and Appearance. An ADU, either attached or detached, should be consistent with the primary dwelling.
  • New attached additions and detached structures cannot be more than 40% of the total square footage (not including the garage), up to 1000 square feet.
  • Structures must be on a permitted foundation.
  • The structures on the property must not exceed the zoned lot coverage limitations and meet the underlying zoning setbacks. See "Zoning Information (Lot coverage limits, setbacks, etc)"
  • Accommodate one additional off-street parking space.
• Addressing
  • No separate address shall be issued for an accessory dwelling, instead the unit shall be addressed with the letter “A” following the address of the principle dwelling. i.e., 1234-A
  • The address shall be visible from the point of entry for the ADU.
  • If the ADU entrance is not visible from the street, the address shall also be added to the primary structure or driveway for flag lots
  • Numbers shall be four inches in height with a minimum stroke width of one-half inch
• Applying for a permit see: "Permit Application Process"
• Fees: 
  • ADUs are based on valuation (labor + materials)
  • Pre-built ADUs are based on the Manufactured Home placement. 
  • See our current Fee Schedule.

7. ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit), Pre-fabricated

• An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is detached on the property. Please see the Battle Ground Municipal Code, Section 17.135.010 ADU detached homes with their own kitchen and living spaces. They allow homeowners the flexibility of separate living quarters to care for family or provide companionship and safety. They also increase the supply of affordable housing units.
• Documents must be filled out and uploaded to the portal at the time of application.
  • ADUs
    • The Manufactured Home Placement Application provides an itemized checklist of documents required for review at the time of submittal. Additional required forms are provided in the application packet.
      • Also included:
        • Site Plan, if you have any questions regarding these documents, please contact: Planning@CityOfBG.org
        • Soil Management worksheets and an Erosion Control example are not required for ADUs built within the existing footprint of the home. If you have any questions regarding these documents, please contact: Engineering.Inspectors@CityOfBG.org
• Design Standards
  • Design and Appearance. An ADU, either attached or detached, should be consistent with the primary dwelling.
  • New attached additions and detached structures cannot be more than 40% of the total square footage (not including the garage), up to 1000 square feet.
  • Structures must be on a permitted foundation.
  • The structures on the property must not exceed the zoned lot coverage limitations and meet the underlying zoning setbacks. See "Zoning Information (Lot coverage limits, setbacks, etc)"
  • Accommodate one additional off-street parking space.
• Addressing
  • No separate address shall be issued for an accessory dwelling, instead the unit shall be addressed with the letter “A” following the address of the principle dwelling. i.e., 1234-A
  • The address shall be visible from the point of entry for the ADU.
  • If the ADU entrance is not visible from the street, the address shall also be added to the primary structure or driveway for flag lots
  • Numbers shall be four inches in height with a minimum stroke width of one-half inch
• Applying for a permit see: "Permit Application Process"
• Fees: 
  • Pre-built ADUs are based on the Manufactured Home placement. 
  • See our current Fee Schedule.

Please email: ComDev.Info@CityofBG.org for information

8. Manufactured Home Placement

• Manufactured being placed in a Mobile Home park or on private property
• The Manufactured Home Placement Application provides an itemized checklist of documents required for review at the time of submittal. Additional required forms are provided in the application packet.
• Also included:
  • Site Plan, if you have any questions regarding these documents, please contact: Planning@CityOfBG.org
  • Soil Management and Erosion Control
    • These only need to be filled out if placing on private property vs. a mobile home park
    • If you have any questions regarding these documents please contact: Engineering.Inspectors@CityOfBG.org
• For placement on individual lots, please see our Municipal Code 17.135.102 for guidance. If you have questions regarding this please contact: Planning@CityOfBG.org 
• Applying for a permit see: "Permit Application Process"
• Fee: Manufactured Home, Review fees, etc, found on our current Fee Schedule.

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1. Are dogs required to be licensed and how many can I have?

Yes, all dogs over the age of six months need to be licensed with the City. Dog licenses are issued on a calendar year basis from January 1 - December 31.  License renewals are due by January 31 of each year.  New dogs may be registered any time of the year. At no time may there be more than three adult dogs per household per BGMC 6.10.060. For more information see the City's dog licensing page.

2. How can I register my dog for a license?

Use our convenient online service to register your dog for a license or to renew a license.  

3. Is there a leash law for dogs?

Yes, any dog off the owner or custodian’s premises must be on a leash per BGMC 6.10.310.

4. What is considered to be nuisance dog barking?

Any animal which by habitual howling, yelping, barking, crowing or other noise disturbs or annoys any person or neighborhood to an unreasonable degree, taken to be continuous noise for a period of ten or more minutes or intermittent noise for a period of thirty or more minutes per BGMC 6.10.260.

5. How can I file a nuisance complaint against a dog?

Fill out the City's citizen action request form online. 

6. Whom can I contact if my pet is missing?

If you are looking for your lost pet in the City of Battle Ground, please contact us at 360-342-5000 (option 0).

7. What is the city’s impound process?

Pets that are found “wandering” on their own may be impounded by the city in order to protect the animal and the public. An impounded pet will be transported to the Human Society for Southwest Washington to ensure its safety and care. 

8. How can I retrieve my impounded pet?

To retrieve an impounded pet, the owner must contact the Humane Society for Southwest Washington and pay any applicable fees. 

9. Am I allowed to keep chickens on my property?

Chickens are allowed, however roosters are not allowed per BGMC 6.10.185.

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1. How much is registration for BGU?

FREE!  All we ask for is your time as you join us for this exciting community engagement program.

2. Is there a minimum age for BGU "Students"?

Yes, attendees should be over the age of 18. 

Staff is in the process of developing similar civic engagement programs specifically designed for school aged children.    

3. Is there a selection process for applicants?

The class size is limited to 25 participants.  

Applicants may be non-residents; however, priority will be given to those that reside within the city limits of Battle Ground.  Applications will be processed on a first come first serve basis, and based on the student's ability to attend most, if not all, of the scheduled classes.   

4. Where will the BGU classes be held?

BGU classes will be rotated between various City facilities.  The location of each session is noted on the course schedule, which include:

Battle Ground - City Hall
109 SW 1st Street

Battle Ground Community Center
912 E. Main Street

Battle Ground Police Department
507 SW 1st Street

5. How do I apply?

Applications will be accepted through the City's website, which can be accessed here. 

Application Deadline August 1, 2023. 

6. What supplies will I need?

The City will provide all supplies needed for the program's activities.

7. Can I attend classes virtually?

BGU classes will only be offered for in-person attendees. 

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1. General Information

Battle Ground partners with the Washington State Department of Revenue, Business Licensing Service (BLS), for the administration of its city business licenses.

Home Occupation Business and Specialty Business Licenses
Some occupations such as home occupation, peddlers, and mobile food businesses require a supplemental license in addition to holding a city business license through the Washington State Department of Revenue. Visit the city’s specialty licenses page and BGMC Title 5 for more information on how to obtain a supplementary license.

If you are a renter, you will also need to seek the approval of the homeowner or management company to conduct your business. 

2. What kind of business should I apply for?

For conducting business within city limits: 

• If you live within city limits, you will need to apply for a Home Occupation Business License. 
• If you are a business located outside of city limits, please apply for an endorsement for work within city limits. 
• If you have a physical location within city limits, please apply for a general business license. 

To determine if you are within City limits, check the jurisdiction at the Clark County GIS, Property Information Center to determine whose jurisdiction the property falls under. 

3. How do I apply for a business license?

Obtaining a City of Battle Ground business license is a 3-step process:

Step 1 - Application: 

• Apply online and pay associated fees via credit or debit card or electronic check from your bank account.
• You can contact either BLS at:
  Email: bls@dor.wa.gov
  Phone: 360-705-6741
  Website 
• Or you can contact the Vancouver Department of Revenue at:
  8008 NE Fourth Plain Blvd #320
  Vancouver, WA 98662
  (360) 256-2060

Step 2 - City review and license activation: 

• Upon successful completion of an application and associated payment, BLS will notify the City that the application information is available for review with respect to City regulations. 
• Unless issues arise during the review, the City will typically activate a license within a week of BLS notification. (If issues arise, the applicant will be contacted).

Step 3 - Issuance of business license: 

• Upon the City’s activation of a business license, BLS will mail to the business a Washington State Business license that has the applicable category of city license printed within the "City Endorsement" section of the state license, along with an expiration date. 
• There are three possible categories of city license issued for Battle Ground, see descriptions below.
  • Battle Ground Business - Applies to a for-profit business.
  • Battle Ground Home Occupation - Applies to a for-profit business that is located in the city at residential-zoned property.
  • Battle Ground Nonprofit Business - Applies to business that is qualified for one or more of the nonprofit exemption criteria.

Note: A business’s state-issued Unified Business Identifier (UBI) number is used to reference its city business license account. 

4. What are the City of Battle Ground's requirements to hold a City business license?

The City of Battle Ground requires a business to hold a City business license if it is either:
1. Physically Located within City limits
2. Entering City limits to conduct business

You can find the jurisdiction at the Clark County GIS, Property Information Center to determine whose jurisdiction the property falls under.

5. How do I renew my business license?

A City business license is active until the expiration date shown on the state license.

BLS facilitates annual renewal by sending a notice to each active city business licensee approximately six weeks prior to the applicable expiration date. The notice includes instructions for completion of the renewal process prior to the expiration date. Once deemed complete, BLS issues an updated state license showing the applicable city endorsement category and new expiration date.

If you have additional questions contact:

Washington State BLS: 
Email: bls@dor.wa.gov 
Phone: 360-705-6741
Website 

6. How do I update my business information?

Updates to the business name, governing people, and/or address(es) should be made online or reported via e-mail.

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1. When is the City Council agenda available for upcoming council meetings?

The agenda is available in the Agenda Center five to seven days prior to the scheduled council meeting.  Use our Notify Me subscription service to receive an email or text message with a link to the agenda when it is published.  

2. Where can I find the upcoming City Council Agenda?

The agenda is available in the Agenda Center five to seven days prior to the scheduled council meeting.  Or, use our Notify Me subscription service to receive an email or text message with a link to the agenda when it is published.  

Notify Me

3. How long after a City Council meeting are the meeting minutes published?

Minutes of each City Council meeting are published after Council approval at the subsequent regular council meeting.  Minutes can be viewed in the Agenda Center.

4. How do I request a public record?

Complete the Request for Public Record Form and return it by:

• Fax: 360-342-5050
• Email: to City Clerk's Office
• Mail: 109 SW 1st St., Ste. 221
  Battle Ground, WA 98604
• In Person: 109 SW 1st St; 2nd floor reception desk

5. What is Title VI?

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1963 and the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987 (P.L. 100.259) assures that no person shall on the grounds of race, color, national origin or sex as provided by be excluded from, participation in, be denied benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination.

The City Clerk serves as the Claims Agent and Title VI Coordinator for the City of Battle Ground. City Clerk

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1. What are my Civil Rights?

Your civil rights are granted by federal statute that prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, disability, religion, familial status and national origin.   Please refer to the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice. 

2. How do I ask for an accommodation?

Please complete and submit a Request for Accommodation form.

3. What can I do if I believe I have been discriminated against by the City of Battle Ground?

You may file a discrimination claim by completing and submitting a claim form available in the Civil Rights & Title VI Complaint Procedures and Claim Form document. 

4. What is Title VI?

Tile VI is a federal law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, and national origin by government agencies that receive federal financial assistance.  Refer to the U.S. Department of Justice's Overview of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

5. What do I do if i believe a Title VI contracting violation occurred?

You may file a  claim by completing and submitting a claim form available in the Civil Rights & Title VI Complaint Procedures and Claim Form document.

6. What are the City's procedures when a civil rights or Title VI complaint is submitted?

The City will investigate the complaint and notify the complainant of its finding.  You may the procedures in the Civil Rights & Title VI Complaint Procedures and Claim Form document.

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1. How do I file a claim against the City for injury or property damages?

You must complete and submit a Claim for Damages form and include documentation of estimates, receipts, and/or photos in support of the claim.

2. What are the City's procedures when a claim is made?

The City will investigate the claim with the related department or staff member and forward all information to our insurance authority who will examine the claim, may use the services of an adjuster, and upon completion of the investigation, will make the final determination if negligence is found.   

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1. What are the application steps?

1. You will need to begin with determining if your property/parcel is within city limits. See: Is the address in Battle Ground City Limits?
2. If you're located in city limits and you are the homeowner building the home:
   1. You'll need to know your zoning information. See: Zoning Information.
   2. See: Are you, the homeowner, building it?
   3. See: What do you need to apply for a permit?
3. If you're located in city limits and you are hiring a contractor:
   1. Often the contractor will handle everything needed for permits and applications. 
   2. You can always keep up with the progress of your permit status by visiting the Customer Self-Service Portal (CSS).
      1. You need the address or parcel number of your property. 
      2. You do NOT need an account to search for your permit. 
      3. If you need any assistance with this, or have any questions, please contact us at: ComDev.Info@CityofBG.org
4. Applying for a permit: We now have an online application system, Customer Self-Service Portal (CSS) 
5. Register for an account (top right-hand side of the page, click on "Guest")
   
6. You will be sent a registration email - if you do not receive the email please check your spam/junk folder. 
   If you still do not receive the email within an hour, please email us and let us know at: ComDev.Info@CityofBG.org
   • Please note that we cannot assist with password resets, so please keep track of your password. 
7. For permits requiring plans - you will need to submit a digital copy on CSS and one physical plan delivered to our office. 
   Please include the permit number assigned to your project when you bring in or mail physical copies to the address under "Contact Us".
8. Please visit our Residential Building Information & Permit Applications page for more information on application types and submittal requirements.

2. Is the address in Battle Ground city limits?

• Not all addresses that include “Battle Ground” or “Brush Prairie” are within City Limits. You can confirm at the Clark County GIS Property Information Center and searching for your address or parcel number (also known as the “Tax Account”).
  
• The Account Summary page provides zoning, utility, emergency, and miscellaneous agencies and information associated with the parcel’s district.