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Consumer Affairs

City of Seattle Weights and Measures Program

There are more than 3,000 state and local weights and measures officials around the country. Accurate weights and measures provide equal protection to buyers and sellers. Consumers are protected from purchasing products that have less than the quantity represented. Businesses are assured that competitors are complying with the same requirements governing packaging and labeling commodities for sale. Weights and measures inspections are performed at production, wholesale and retail locations.

The Seattle weights and measures program was established in 1911. Weights and measures inspections and investigation of consumer complaints are conducted by the Consumer Affairs Unit in the new Department of Executive Administration. The Consumer Affairs unit operates a Test Station located at 805 S. Dearborn Street not far from the Quest Field. Meters on heating oil delivery trucks are inspected using large calibrated underground tanks at the Test Station. In addition, taxicab meter tests are conducted using special simulated distance device installed there. Business and taxicab license applications are processed by the customer service representative at the Test Station.

Weights and Measures Consumer Complaint

Priority is given to consumer complaints. Consumer complaints are normally investigated within 24 hours. The person making the complaint always receives a call back on what action the weights and measures inspector has taken. Usually, inspectors resolve problems by informing businesses about the requirements of the Seattle Municipal Code or educating them on technical matters pertaining to their weighing and measuring devices. Generally, there is a high level of compliance with weights and measures requirements in Seattle which is due in part to frequent unannounced inspections. However, the overwhelming majority of businesses are careful to observe all of the Code requirements and are committed to customer service.

We welcome your comments. If you have a specific question you would like answered, please send us E-Mail at: seattle.consumer-affairs@seattle.gov


Weight & Measure Inspections

Scale Requirements

Commodity Inspection Program

Gas Pump Inspection Program

Scale Inspection Program

Tank Truck Meter Testing Program

Price Scanning Inspection Program

Vehicle Scale Inspections

Facts You Should Know

Tips for Customers

How to file a Complaint

Complaint Form

Laws & Regulations

Reference Publications

Weights & Measures History

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