Why was the program created?

The City of Seattle’s Clear Alleys Program (CAP) is aimed at:

• Creating cleaner, safer business districts
  
• Reducing the incidence of uncivil behaviors and illegal activities in alleys
  
• Increasing the attractiveness of alleys for pedestrian use
  
• Allowing better alley access for business services (deliveries) and possible expansion of commercial activity

How was it created?
The Proposed Director’s Rule (PDF): This rule makes clear the City of Seattle’s authority in managing the use of public right-of-ways concerning the storage of all containers used for any purpose. The rule applies throughout the City of Seattle. Read a summary of the rule (PDF).

A specific section of the rule is dedicated to the Belltown, Downtown, and Pioneer Square neighborhoods (PDF), and bans the permanent storage of all containers in the public right-of-way. This is the CAP service area. The rule has been mailed to customers in the affected neighborhoods. View a copy of the letter (PDF).

How does CAP work?
Prepaid Garbage Bag Service is available only to the Belltown, Downtown, and Pioneer Square neighborhoods with some exceptions. This service will allow businesses that currently store permanent containers in the public right-of-way to effectively meet their solid waste management needs while also providing opportunities for the diversion of solid waste from the landfill. Read CAP frequently asked questions to learn more.

Additional questions?

Visit the Seattle Public Utilities site for rate information.

For information on CleanScapes CAP service, review their CAP brochure.

For information on Waste Management CAP service, visit their Seattle CAP site.

For questions or more information on the program contact Tom Gannon, Commercial Compost and Recycling Manager, at tom.gannon@seattle.gov or (206) 684-3453.

Translated Documents
The following documents are in PDF format.

Cambodian – Director’s Rule | Summary of rule | Cover Letter | FAQ

Chinese – Director’s Rule | Summary of rule | Cover Letter | FAQ

Korean – Director’s Rule | Summary of rule | Cover Letter | FAQ

Spanish – Director’s Rule | Summary of rule | Cover Letter | FAQ

Tagalong – Director’s Rule | Summary of rule | Cover Letter | FAQ

Thai – Director’s Rule | Summary of rule | Cover Letter | FAQ

Vietnamese – Director’s Rule | Summary of rule | Cover Letter | FAQ

Related Links
Seattle Public Utilities

CleanScapes

Waste Management