Washington Administrative Code Title 480 - Utilities and Transportation Commission
Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Title 480 – Utilities and Transportation Commission
Overview:
WAC Title 480 contains the administrative rules adopted by the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC). The UTC is a regulatory agency that oversees private utilities and transportation companies to ensure safe, reliable, and reasonably priced services.
Scope of Regulation under WAC Title 480:
1. Utilities Regulation
Electric, Natural Gas, and Water Companies
Rate-setting, service standards, safety, and customer protections.
Example chapters:
480-100: Electric companies
480-90: Natural gas companies
480-110: Water companies
Telecommunications
Rules governing phone companies and VoIP services (some deregulated due to federal law).
Example:
480-120: Telephone companies
Pipeline Safety
Safety rules for natural gas and hazardous liquid pipelines.
Example:
480-93: Gas pipeline safety
2. Transportation Regulation
Motor Carriers (e.g., household goods movers, charter and excursion buses)
Licensing, tariffs, insurance, and safety requirements.
Example chapters:
480-15: Household goods carriers
480-30: Bus companies
Railroads and Railroad Crossings
Ensures the safety of rail operations, crossings, and tracks.
Example:
480-62: Railroad safety
Solid Waste Collection Companies
Regulation of garbage/recycling haulers operating under state-granted authority.
Example:
480-70: Solid waste carriers
Key Functions of the UTC under Title 480:
Rate Approvals – Ensuring that utility rates are just, reasonable, and non-discriminatory.
Consumer Protection – Investigating complaints, enforcing service quality standards.
Safety Oversight – Enforcing safety standards for pipelines, railroads, and motor carriers.
Permitting & Licensing – Granting authority to operate for carriers and utility services.
Policy & Rulemaking – Developing rules that adapt to evolving industry conditions.
Commonly Referenced Chapters within WAC Title 480:
| Chapter | Subject |
|---|---|
| 480-07 | General rules of practice and procedure |
| 480-09 | Tariff rules |
| 480-100 | Electric companies |
| 480-90 | Natural gas companies |
| 480-120 | Telephone companies |
| 480-62 | Railroads and safety |
| 480-93 | Gas pipeline safety |
| 480-70 | Solid waste collection |
| 480-15 | Household goods carriers |
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