Seattle, WA Street Use and Occupation Bond
Overview
Working in Seattle's public right-of-way means navigating a specific set of city requirements — and this bond is one of them. Before you place structures, equipment, or improvements in or over city streets, sidewalks, or other public spaces, Seattle's Street Use and Occupation Bond must be in place. It guarantees that you will comply with your street use permit conditions and that the City of Seattle can recover costs if you fail to restore the right-of-way or follow the rules. Get bonded before your permit is issued.
Who Needs This Bond?
Contractors, utility companies, developers, and property owners who have applied for or hold a Street Use permit from the City of Seattle need this bond. Anyone occupying or using Seattle's public right-of-way — whether for scaffolding, crane swings, temporary structures, utility work, or permanent encroachments — falls under this requirement. If the City of Seattle's Street Use division told you a bond is required, this is the one.
What is this Bond For?
Seattle's public streets, sidewalks, and rights-of-way are shared infrastructure — the city protects them through permit conditions backed by this bond. If you fail to comply with your permit terms, fail to restore the right-of-way after your work is complete, or leave the city to clean up after an abandoned encroachment, the bond provides Seattle with a financial remedy. You are the principal; the City of Seattle is the obligee that can make a claim.
When is it Required?
Applying for or renewing a Street Use permit from the City of Seattle is the moment this bond becomes mandatory. The city will not issue a permit authorizing occupation or use of the public right-of-way until proof of a compliant bond is on file. If your project scope changes and a new or amended permit is required, the bond requirement applies again.
Where Does it Apply?
This bond is a City of Seattle requirement and applies exclusively to work or encroachments within Seattle's municipal boundaries. It is not a Washington State license bond and does not satisfy permit requirements in any other jurisdiction. Your bond must name the City of Seattle as obligee.
How to Buy Online
Click 'Buy This Bond Online' on this page to open the secure surety portal in a new tab. Complete your application, review your bond documents, and purchase — all in one session without waiting on a callback. Your bond certificate is ready to submit to Seattle's Street Use division once the process is complete.
Why Bond Titan?
Bond Titan is powered by The Southern Agency and built for business owners who need to move fast. Our nationwide online catalog means you can find, apply for, and secure this Seattle-specific bond without phone tag or paperwork delays. No agent waiting room — just a direct path to the bond your permit requires.