SEPA checklist guidance, Section B: Public services

15. Public Services

a. Would the project result in an increased need for public services (for example: Fire protection, police protection, public transit, health care, schools, other)? If so, generally describe:

In describing increased service demand, include the type of service as well as the reason for increased demand. Public services affected by development projects can include:

• Emergency services.
• School enrollment.
• Police and law enforcement.
• Public transit.
• Energy and utilities.

Additional Resources

• Public Safety Resources (Municipal Research Service Center)

b. Proposed measures to reduce or control direct impacts on public services, if any.

Impact fees can be used to fund public services associated with a new development. These fees help pay the proportionate share of costs for public facilities benefiting a new development such as roads, schools, and parks. Impact fees, however, cannot be used to correct existing deficiencies in public services. In Washington, impact fees are authorized for cities and counties planning development under the state Growth Management Act as part of “voluntary agreements” and address mitigation under SEPA. Mitigation measures can include:

• Providing on-site security or other emergency services.
• Putting operational or design measures in place to reduce emergency risks.
• Impact fees.

Additional Resources

• Impact Fees (Municipal Research Service Center)