Fixed Outdoor Electric Deicing and Snow-Melting Equipment

In July, 2019 City Council passed ordinance SMC 17F.050.165 in order to guarantee the safety and maintenance of fixed outdoor electric deicing and snow melting equipment that is embedded in driveways, sidewalks, steps, or areas that are accessible by the public. This requirement applies retroactively to all embedded systems that were installed under older versions of the National Electrical Code and also to new installations.

All underground facilities (including those that are disconnected) which include deicing or heating equipment in the right of way must register with the Inland Empire Utility Coordinating Council by RCW 19.122.020(27) and RCW 19.1229027(4).
Fines may be imposed, beginning at $1,000 for not registering.
Contact www.ieucc811.org to register.

Existing systems installed prior to July 1, 2019

  • All existing systems require a safety inspection. Property owners can schedule a free safety inspection with the City of Spokane by calling 509.625.6300.
    • If the system requires updates to bring it up to safety standards; additional work will be recommended. You must work with a licensed electrician to pull necessary permits and complete the work or you may choose to disconnect the system.
    • To facilitate the work – the City of Spokane will waive the minimum permit fee of $65. Additional permit fees may apply if additional work is required.
    • A final inspection will be performed to verify safety and we will keep your system registration on file.
  • All systems are required to be registered with the City of Spokane.
    • The registration application and site plan must be completed to indicate location of system
  • All systems shall be maintained to current electrical code and require the owner to test the system annually for safety.
  • If you choose to disconnect your system in the future – please contact us to update the registry.

New systems installed after July 1, 2019

  • Application for a new system can be made using the electrical permit application (PDF 537 KB).
    • Permit submittals for new installations shall include manufacturers cut sheets.
  • New systems are required to be registered with the City of Spokane.
    • The registration application and site plan must be completed to indicate the proposed location of system.
  • All systems shall be maintained to current electrical code and require the owner to test the system annually for safety.
  • If you choose to disconnect your system in the future – please contact us to update the registry.

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