FAQ's = Frequently Asked Questions

 

Can I burn my garbage?

No! You can only burn natural vegetation. Please click here for info on Burn Permits and more information.

 

Does Omak offer recycling programs?

There are several locations around OkanoganCounty that accept recycled items.  For information contact the OkanoganCountyRecycleCenter at 422-2602, OmakCity Hall at 826-1170 or call 1-800-RECYCLE.

 

Does the city regulate watering?

No. The city no longer regulates days or times of watering.  The water is metered and our customers pay for excess water use.  We do however promote the conservation of water.  Any account reflecting excessive water usage will be notified.

 

What is extra garbage?

Sunrise Disposal views extra garbage as anything that does not fit into your can with the lid closed.  An extra fee will be charged for all extra garbage.  Any size bag or bundle next to or on top of the can is "extra garbage."

 

When is my utility payment due?

Your utility payment is due on the 15th of the month.  However, the monetary penalties are not assessed until 45 days after the billing date.

 

Where is my storm drain?

Not every location will have a storm drain.  The city storm drain system as a whole helps manage drainage resulting from water flows to control flooding, erosion, property damage and environmental damage.

 

Why do I pay a storm drain fee?

Each city customer is billed a storm drain charge based on the development of the property.  The fees collected are used for preventive maintenance and repair of the storm drain system.

 

Is there fluoride in the city water?

Yes, natural fluoride .7 milligrams per liter.  The city does not add

fluoride to the water.

 

How do I qualify for a utility tax exemption?

The property owner must be a member of a federally recognized tribe and have land on the reservation or trust land.  The city must have a completed tax exemption form on file.

 

Am I required to have garbage service?

Yes.  The City of Omak has a universal compulsory garbage/solid waste collection.  Every property owner will be charged for solid waste collection service at the rates specified, whether such person uses such service or not.

 

Are there any restrictions on what I put in my garbage can?

Yes.  No garbage can shall contain earth, sod, rocks, heavy refuse, construction debris or hot ashes.  These items cause damage to the contactors equipment.

 

Is there a weight limit on my garbage can?

Yes.  To prevent injury to the sanitation crew, the 32-gallon cans should not exceed 65 pounds.  The weight limit on the carts helps prevent damage to the equipment.  The 65-gallon cart should not exceed 95 pounds and the 95-gallon cart should not exceed 130 pounds.

 

What if I forgot to put out my garbage?

If you forget trash day, Sunrise will usually service your cart within 24 hours at no cost.  If your location is one that consistently fails to put the can out for collection, you will be charged a special pick up fee for this service.

 

What happens if my garbage cart is damaged?

If the damage or loss is due to the customer negligence and for all other reasons shall be at the customer’s expense.  Normal wear and tear shall be made at the contractor’s expense.

 

Does the city charge to turn water off and on?

If the customer calls in advance to arrange a day they are not charged for this service.  In the case of an emergency situation, the customer may be charged an additional $30.00 if the service is performed during regular working hours.  After hours the service fee is $75.00.

 

If  I go on vacation can I terminate the garbage service?

If you will be gone more than a month, the city will temporarily stop your service.  When you return to town, you must notify the city.

 

Why is my consumption so high?

There could be many factors that create high water consumption.  Studies show that dripping faucets and leaking toilets account for as much as 14% of all indoor water use.  A leaky toilet is the most common source of leaks. Toilets can be repaired inexpensively by replacing the flapper.  The next place to check for leaks is your water softener, sink and bathtub faucets.

 

When is the best time to water my lawn?

Water before 8 A.M. or after 6 P.M. and avoid watering on windy days.  As much as 30% of water can be lost to evaporation by watering the lawn during midday. Maintain a lawn height 2 ½ to 3 inches to help protect the roots from heat and stress and reduce loss of moisture through evaporation.

 

How often should I water my lawn?

Water your lawn every three to five days in the summer.  Water in several short sessions rather than one long one.  For example, three ten minute sessions spaced 30 minutes apart will allow your lawn to better absorb moisture than one straight 30 minute session.

 

What if I over water my lawn?

Over watering promotes shallow root growth making your lawn less hardy. To determine if your lawn needs to be watered, simply walk across the grass. If you leave footprints, its time to water.

 

How can I get a green garbage cart?

Simply contact city hall at 826-1170.  You have the option of a 65-gallon or 95-gallon cart.  Sunrise will deliver the cart the next business day. Please note a $3.00 delivery charge will be billed to your account.

Omak City
omakcity.com