Consumer Affairs

Our Services

Weights and Measures

• Inspectors conduct unannounced tests of commercial weighing and measuring devices (e.g., scales, gas pumps, taximeters) located within the city.
• Inspectors investigate consumer complaints - normally within 24 hours (e.g., short weight, price scanning).
• Inspectors verify that the net contents of packaged goods are the same as the labeled net contents.
• Inspectors check pricing accuracy of price scanning systems.
• Inspectors enforce a variety of packaging requirements including: labeling, method of sale, tare, net contents, and unit pricing.

Taxicab Regulation

• Inspectors conduct safety inspections and taximeter tests for approximately 840 Seattle and King County taxicabs.
• Inspectors investigate passenger complaints reported to 296-TAXI (e.g., short trip refusals, overcharges, lost items).
• Inspectors enforce taxi code requirements on the street (e.g., trip sheets, display of license enlargements, receipts). Issue monetary penalties for violations.
• Issue taxicab licenses and taxicab association licenses. License requirements: vehicle inspection by ASE certified mechanic, minimum vehicle size limit (large), maximum vehicle age limit (8 years), minimum vehicle insurance ($100,000/$300,000 liability, $25,000 property damage, $25,000/$50,000 underinsured motorist).

SPD Impound Contract

• Inspect storage lots, audit impound records. Investigate owner complaints (e.g., damage to vehicle, tow charges).
• Authorize release of vehicles or property to persons other than registered owners.
• Review appeals for unticketed impounds (e.g., evidence holds, stolen recoveries) to decide whether impounds and charges are proper.
• Monitor tow contractor compliance with SPD impound contract (e.g., response times, evidence hold reports).

For more information on consumer protection contact:
City of Seattle at: (206) 386-1298
Washington at: (360) 902-1857