▼

Behavioral Health Developmental Services (BHDS)

Show All Answers

1. Help! I'm having a Mental Health Crisis! Who Do I call?

Washington County Crisis Line
1-877-225-3567
24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year

2. Where can I go to get help with substance abuse problems?

Call the Washington Drug & Alcohol Commission, Inc. at (724) 223-1181

3. Is there a mental health treatment center that can help children or adolescents nearby?

Yes! Call Southwood Psychiatric Hospital at (412) 257-2290

▼

Chief Clerk

Show All Answers

1. How do I file a request for Open Records?

Washington County Right To Know Officer: Cindy Griffin, Chief Clerk County of Washington 702 Courthouse Square 100 West Beau Street Washington, PA 15301 Fax: 724-228-6965 or click here: http://www.co.washington.pa.us/Open_Records Office Hours are Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM

▼

Children and Youth

Show All Answers

1. How do I recieve an encrypted email from your organization?

The instructions are available here. Instructions to recieve encrypted email.

▼

Coroner

Show All Answers

1. Where can I obtain a death certificate?

Death Certificates are filed with the Department of Health's Division of Vital Statistics. Please contact the funeral director who assisted with your arrangements. 

Alternately you can contact Vital Statistics: http://www.health.pa.gov/MyRecords/Certificates/Pages/11596.aspx or by telephone: 724-656-3100 or toll-free 844-228-3516

2. Why is the Coroner involved?

Pennsylvania law requires the Coroner investigate deaths of persons dying from criminal violence; by accident, by suicide, suddenly when unattended by a physician for a reasonable period of time, or in any suspicious or unusual manner. 

Another reason the Coroner may be involved is that the identity of the deceased or next-of-kin is unknown, or the individual is unclaimed by family.

3. What is an autopsy and is there a charge for it?

An autopsy is a systematic examination of the body of a deceased person by a qualified physician for the purpose of determining the cause of death. A record is made on the findings of the autopsy, including microscopic and toxicology laboratory tests. These laboratory tests are conducted before the release of the body to the next-of-kin and for burial.

There's no charge to the next-of-kin for an autopsy when a case is determined to fall under the Coroner's jurisdiction, nor for any other test that may be conducted by the Coroner (unless specific testing, such as genetic test not deemed to be consequential to cause of death, is requested by the family).

4. When is an autopsy performed?

Not all deaths, and not all persons brought to the Coroner's office will be autopsied. 

An exam is typically not performed where abuse, neglect or foul play is not suspected and evidence of a natural death is present. 

In other cases where the possibility of legal proceedings may arise as a result of a homicide, accident, suicide, etc., an autopsy may be performed. In these cases, both positive and negative information ordinarily is found, which substantiates the ruling and the cause of death as signed by the Coroner.

5. Does the Coroner need permission from the next-of-kin for an autopsy?

The Coroner does not need permission for an autopsy. The Office of the Coroner will attempt to comply with the wishes of the next-of-kin, provided this does not conflict with the duties of the Coroner as charged by Pennsylvania law.

6. How do I donate my body, or a loved one's body?

Whole body donations are fairly common and done for a variety of purposes. Some people may do them for scientific purposes. Others choose them because they are a less costly alternative to a common funeral with a burial, thus leaving less of a burden for their loved ones.

Usually, the person donating their body must give their own consent and therefore must be alive, of sound mind, and able to sign a donation agreement. In some cases, a next of kin can arrange a donation for a loved one. That decision is up to the donation bureau or agency. Please contact them with questions.

In all cases, these donations are not handled by the coroner.  Research "whole body donation" for more information. For your convenience, two agencies are listed alphabetically below:

Anatomy Gifts Registry - Maryland: (800) 300-5433 | www.anatomygifts.org | info@anatomygifts.org

Humanity Gifts Registry - Pennsylvania: (215) 922-4440 | www.hgrpa.org | info@hgrpa.org

7. How long does it take for a death ruling to be made?

This depends on the circumstance. In some cases, a signed death certificate accompanies the body when it is released by the Coroner. 

When there is insufficient information available to complete the death certificate, a “pending” death certificate is issued. This death certificate enables the funeral services and burial to take place while the investigation continues, or for additional chemical, microscopic, slide preparation and examination.

At the culmination of these tests and investigation, the ruling is made based on all available information. An amended death certificate is then issued with the final cause of death and the ruling, which supersedes the “pending” death certificate.

8. When will the autopsy report be completed?

The autopsy report, on average, takes about six to eight weeks from the date of death. If microscopic and chemical tests are performed, this time period can lengthen. 

The Coroner, along with the pathologist, work very hard to determine and complete the cause of death in a timely manner. 

There are some circumstances that arise where more time is needed to determine the cause and manner of death.

9. Where may the clothing of the deceased be located?

Usually, the clothing of the deceased is released to the funeral director for disposal or use as the family requests. 

In cases of homicide, suicides, or vehicular deaths, the clothing may be held by the Coroner or the investigating law enforcement agency for use as evidence.

Please understand that in some cases, clothing may be deemed biohazardous or contaminated and cannot be returned.

10. How is the funeral director selected?

Most often, the next-of-kin discusses the selection of the funeral director with the other family members, clergy or friends. 

The Office of the Coroner is prohibited from recommending a funeral director. 

A listing of funeral directors is available in the telephone book, as well as other sources.

11. How do I make arrangements for the body to be released from the Coroner's office?

The Coroner releases the body to licensed funeral director. 

The next-of-kin of the deceased person should notify a funeral director who in turn will arrange transportation for the deceased to the funeral home.

12. Why does the Coroner charge a fee for a cremation release?

The release for cremation (or disposition authorization) is required by Pennsylvania code for all persons whose bodies are to be cremated, buried at sea, or otherwise disposed of so as to be thereafter unavailable for examination. 

The great majority of these deaths are certified by the attending physicians and would not otherwise fall under the jurisdiction of the coroner. Because an investigation must be conducted, the additional workload justifies a specific fee to be paid only by the users of the specific service rather than the taxpayers in general. 

Approximately 1,000 cremations are authorized each year in this county.

13. Will I be charged for the services of the Coroner?

When a case falls under the jurisdiction of the Coroner, there is no charge for an autopsy and the related testing. 

Families are still responsible for the cost of a funeral or cremation.

14. Who will clean up the death scene?

After a death, there may be a need to either clean or dispose of contaminated clothing, furniture, carpeting, or other personal belongings. 

The Coroner’s Office does not provide these services. We will provide you with phone numbers for such a service upon your request.

15. Why does the Coroner refuse to release information about an investigation?

In most cases, the Coroner will not release any information about an investigation until the family of the deceased is notified. 

When an investigation is ongoing,  in conjunction with law enforcement, we may restrict the detail of any information that is released. 

Any information that may jeopardize the outcome of an investigation will not be released until the investigation has concluded.

16. Is it necessary for me to come to the Coroner’s Office to identify the body?

No, in the majority of the cases visual identification is not required. 

Should it become necessary for you to come in or bring other records or x-rays, you will be contacted. A photograph of the decedent will be viewed by the next-of-kin for positive identification when necessary.

17. Why wasn't I notified sooner?

The Coroner’s Office makes every effort to contact next-of-kin as quickly as possible. Speedy notification is not always possible due to a variety of factors, such as if the victim had no identification. 

To prevent a false notification, the Coroner’s Office wants to be absolutely sure of the identify of the victim before notification.

 Please remember that although the victim may have been separated from his/her spouse, without a legally recognized separation or divorce decree, the spouse is still the legal next-of-kin and is usually the one who will be notified. Sometimes this may present a difficulty to other family members who believe they should be the ones notified. 

Locating next-of-kin, especially if out of state or country, make take some time. The Coroner and/or a deputy along with a uniformed police officer usually makes death notification for the Washington County Coroner’s Office.

18. Can the time of an unattended death be determined with certainty?

No, in spite of much research, an exact time of death cannot be determined. An estimate can be made based on a number of physical factors, but because there are so many factors involved, the exact time of an unattended death cannot be determined.

The generally accepted practice is a range between the time last seen and time found.

19. What are the office hours of the Washington County Coroner's Office?

The office hours are Monday-Friday from 9:00 A.M to 4:30 P.M. The Coroner can be reached after hours in an emergency by calling Washington County 911 at (724) 229-4600.

20. How do outside entities obtain an Autopsy,Toxicology and/or Coroner's report?

Insurance companies should place requests on company letterhead and include a statement of authorization or a signed release. Requests from attorneys must be accompanied by a subpoena. Faxed subpoenas will not be accepted. 

The charges, per Act 154 of 2018, are: 

Autopsy Report: $500.00 

Toxicology Report: $ 100.00 

Coroner's Report: $ 100.00

21. How do I obtain a copy of an Autopsy, Coroner's Report and Toxicology Report?

As the next-of-kin, you are entitled to obtain a copy of each at no cost. You must put your request in writing and mail it to the Coroner's Office:

100 West Beau Street

Suite 203

Washington, PA 15301

22. Who can interpret the results of the autopsy report for me?

Autopsy and toxicology reports are medical records and fairly technical. If you have a question about something in the report, we recommend you contact your loved one's family physician or specialty care provider.

▼

Correctional Facility

Show All Answers

1. When Are visiting hours?

The Facility is closed on weekends and all County Holidays. Visiting hours are 9:00 - 11:30, 2:30 - 4:30 and 6:00 - 8:00 Monday thru Friday. The Facility is closed on weekends and all County Holidays.

2. What may I bring for an inmate?

Money orders and certified checks are no longer be accepted at the facility. Please refer to the visiting rules (#13) on Visitor Rules page. Clothing must be mailed in it's original store bought packaging, and is limited to a specific list of allowable items. Please refer to the visiting rules (#14) on the Inmate Visitor Rules page.

3. Can I pay an inmates bond?

Yes, The bond may be paid at the Clerk of Courts located in the Washington County Court House, through the use of a Bonding Agent or at the Facility after hours. If you need assistance or more information, please call the Facility and ask about making bond arrangements.

4. How can I write to an inmate?

A. All correspondence addressed to inmates must be sent by U.S. Postal Service mail. Correspondence sent by other courier or delivery services will be refused.

B. Always use the inmate's committed name and Pod housed in if known. Address the envelope as follows: Inmate's last name, first name-Pod Washington County Correctional Facility 100 West Cherry Ave. Washington, Pa. 15301 Example: Smith, John - 4-West Washington County Correctional Facility 100 West Cherry Ave. Washington, Pa. 15301

C. All routine mail sent to an inmate is opened, examined, and may be read by designated staff.

D. Inmates will be permitted to receive only the following types of materials through routine mail: 1. Written correspondence (no limit as to number of pages). Correspondence may be written on greeting cards, but cards containing electronic or other non-paper parts, cards which are constructed in such a way as to permit concealment of contraband, or which are larger than 8"x10" will not be permitted. Each page can be no larger than 8 1/2 x 14 inches in size; material can be on both sides of a page. Individual newspaper or magazine articles or clippings or clippings from other publications are permissible, up to a 5 page limit. No item can be glued, taped, stapled, or otherwise affixed to a page.

E. The following items are not permissible in or as an attachment to mail addressed to an inmate: 1. Non-paper items; 2. Items of a non-communicative nature such as lottery tickets or matchbooks; 3. Stickers or stamps (other than postage stamps, postal service attachments, and address labels affixed to the outside of the envelope); 4. Address labels (other than those affixed to the outside of the envelope); 5. Laminated cards or other laminated materials. 6. Nude photographs or photographs that reveal genitalia, buttocks, or the female breast will not be permitted. 7. Polaroid photographs will not be permitted.

F. Incoming mail shall be disapproved for mailing or delivery to an inmate if any part of it: 1. Depicts or describes procedures for the construction of or use of weapons, ammunitions, bombs, chemical agents, or incendiary devices; 2. Depicts, encourages, or describes methods of escape from correctional facilities or contains blueprints, drawings or similar descriptions of department of corrections, facilities or institutions, or includes road maps that can facilitate escape from correctional facilities; 3. Depicts or describes procedures for the brewing of alcoholic beverages, or the manufacture of drugs or other intoxicants; 4. Is written in code; 5. Depicts, describes, or encourages activities which may lead to the use of physical violence or group disruption; 6. Encourages or instructs in the commission of criminal activity; 7. Is dangerously inflammatory in that it advocates or encourages riot, insurrection, disruption of the institution, violation of Facility rules, the violation of which would present a serious threat to the security, order or rehabilitative objectives of the institution or the safety of any person; 8. Threatens physical harm, blackmail or extortion; 9. Pictorially depicts sexual conduct such as actual or simulated sexual intercourse; sexual bestiality; masturbation; sadomasochistic abuse; actual contact with a person's unclothed genitals, pubic area, buttocks, or, if such person is a female, breast; any act or conduct which constitutes sexual battery or simulates that sexual battery is being or will be committed. 10. Presents nudity or a lewd exhibition of the genitals in such a way as to create the appearance that sexual conduct is imminent, i.e., display of contact or intended contact with genitals, pubic area, buttocks or female breasts orally, digitally or by foreign object, or display of sexual organs in an aroused state. 11. Contains criminal history, offender registration, or other personal information about another inmate or offender, which in the hands of an inmate, presents a threat to the security, order or rehabilitative objectives of the correctional system or to the safety of any person; 12. Contains or appears to contain unknown or unidentifiable substances; or 13. Otherwise presents a threat to the security, order, or rehabilitative objectives of the correctional system, or to the safety of any person.

G. When an inmate is transferred or released, mail addressed to the inmate at his old institution shall be treated as follows: 1. After the transfer or release, all first-class and second-class mail will be returned to the U.S. Postal Service for its disposition.

H. Inmates may not send mail to any person who has advised the warden that he does not wish to receive mail from the inmate. 1. The parents or legal guardians of a person under the age of 18 may advise that mail is not to be sent to such person. 2. Upon receipt of such advisement, the warden will cause to be prepared an acknowledgment specifying that the inmate will not be permitted to send mail to the person requesting the correspondence restriction and that such person should return any further mail received from the inmate and notify the warden of the attempt to correspond. 3. After the inmate is notified of the correspondence restriction, any further attempt to correspond will be considered a violation of rules and issued a misconduct.

5. I am the victim of a crime. I want to be notified of the release, transfer, escape or death of an inmate.Who should I contact to obtain information and how?

You should call the Washington County Crime Victim/Witness Assistance Program at 724-229-5904. They have the necessary forms for you to register to be notified. In addition they have programs and assistance available to Victims and witnesses of crime that you will find useful. Please note that notification is only provided to the victim of the offender. When a registered inmate has a status change, you will be notified by a system at the numbers you provided or via a website. We recommend that the Victim supply the as many numbers, pagers or cell phones as you wish to aid us in contacting you. You may also register with Victim Information and Notification Everyday on the world wide web at www.vinelink.com.

▼

District Attorney

Show All Answers

1. Can I report a crime to the District Attorney's Office?

All emergencies should be reported by calling “911” immediately. In most other cases, criminal activity should be reported to the police department in which the crime occurred. For example, if the crime occurred in Washington County, it should generally be reported to the police responsible for that jurisdiction – your local police department or the Pennsylvania State Police.

2. How do I file a private criminal complaint?

The Private Criminal Complaint form can be obtained at the Magisterial District Judge's office or at the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts website (www.courts.state.pa.us) in the area where the alleged crime was committed. The complaint, unless the crime is a summary offense, after filing in the Magisterial District Judge's Office will be forwarded to the District Attorney's Office for approval. When the District Attorney returns the approved complaint, a hearing will be scheduled. If the District Attorney disapproves the Complaint, you can petition the Court of Common Pleas for a review of the decision. (Pa. Rules of Criminal Procedure 506(2)).

3. How do I file a domestic violence complaint?

Contact your local police department. The police are initially responsible for investigating domestic violence cases. Our Special Victims Investigation and Prosecution Unit may assist the investigation and file any appropriate criminal charges

4. I am the victim in a domestic violence case and I want to drop charges. How do I do drop charges?

The decision to drop charges in any criminal prosecution can only be made by an Assistant District Attorney, with the approval of a judge. The victim's requests are taken into consideration by the assigned ADA, but the final determination as to whether or not charges will be dismissed rests solely with the District Attorney's Office.

5. I think I have been cheated by a contractor, tradesman or other person who provides labor and/or services. Can anyone help me?

Disputes with contractors, allegations of unlawful business practices, and related issues regarding the goods and services may be civil and/or criminal matters, based upon the specific facts of your case. You may contact the following agencies for assistance:
Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Consumer Protection 800-441-2555
Local Police Departments

6. I would like the District Attorney’s Office to help me obtain child support for my children. Can the District Attorney help me?

No. The District Attorney's Office cannot provide legal advice to anyone in any civil matter, nor can we take legal action. However, the Washington County Domestic Relations Department may be able help you obtain child support. For further information, telephone (724) 228-6756. You should always consult with your lawyer regarding your rights. If you do not have a lawyer, you can contact the Washington County Bar Association at (724) 225-6710 for a referral.

7. I believe that someone is taking financial advantage of an older adult or that the older adult is being abused, what should I do?

If it is an emergency contact 911 for the police. To report elder abuse (including financial exploitation) contact Protective Services at 1-800-537-2424 or (724) 489-8086. Your name will remain confidential by state law. The Washington County District Attorneys Office works closely with Protective Services on Elder Abuse cases.

8. I have been subpoenaed by the District Attorney to appear as a witness in a criminal case. Can I get witness fees?

The court can order that you receive reasonable and necessary expenses after testifying. However, as a witness in a criminal case it is your civic duty to attend, as well as a court-ordered duty if you have received a subpoena. Therefore, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will not pay you a fee for participating as a witness.

9. What if I can't attend on the date stated in the subpoena?

If you have a conflict with the date listed on the subpoena, please immediately contact the Assistant District Attorney handling the case before the appearance date and discuss your conflict. In most cases, we are able to accommodate your schedule and minimize any inconvenience. If you are not sure which Assistant District Attorney is handling your case, you may telephone (724) 228-6790.

10. I am a defendant and I do not like the attorney who is representing me. Can I talk to the Assistant District Attorney about my case?

No. All attorneys are governed by a code of ethics which prevents them from speaking directly to any defendant who is represented by an attorney. As long as you are represented by an attorney, we may speak only to your attorney

11. I have a complaint about your office. How do I contact you and will you respond?

Please write to District Attorney Eugene A. Vittone at the Washington County District Attorney's Office, 1 South Main Street Suite 1003 Washington, PA 15301. District Attorney Vittone, or his representative, will contact you.

▼

District Attorney's Office of Victim Services

Show All Answers

1. Can I drop charges?

You can not drop the charges with out the District Attorney and the Judge's permission.

2. My property was recovered by the police, how do I get it back?

You may have to wait until your case has been disposed of before your property can be returned to you. In some cases, defendants may appeal their sentence. When that happens, all appeals must be completed before property will be returned. You will need to notify the police department that you want your property returned.

3. Do I need to hire my own attorney?

No, the Commonwealth represents your interests. The District Attorney or Assistant District Attorney prosecutes the case on your behalf.

4. Are there counseling services available to crime victims?

Yes, counseling is available. For victims of sexual assault/abuse: The STTARS program-724-229-5007 or 1-888-480-7283. For Domestic Violence: The Washington Women’s Shelter-724-223-9190 or 1-800-791-4000 For other violent crimes: The Crime Victim/Witness Assistance Program can refer you to therapists. All of these services are available free of charge and are confidential.

5. What is the difference between restitution and Victims Compensation Assistance Program?

The Victims Compensation Assistance Program is the payer of last resort. You must utilize all other methods of payment, such as health insurance or car insurance before you are eligible to apply for Victims Compensation Assistance Program. Victims Compensation Assistance Program does not cover property loss or pain and suffering. For more information, see the special section on Victims Compensation Assistance Program on this site.

6. If I have to go to court, how should I dress?

Dress nicely in clothes you may wear to work.

7. I have to testify, what will I say?

The most important thing to remember is to tell the truth. The Assistant District Attorney will explain more in detail prior to the court date and time.

8. Who pays for the services provided by the Crime Victim/Witness Assistance Program?

All of the staff and programs of the Crime Victim/Witness Assistance Program are paid through grants. No County tax dollars are used to support this program. Most of the funds come from fines and costs levied on defendants.

9. How can I find out more about my court case?

You can call the Office of Victim Services at any time and an advocate will check on the status of the case for you. (724-229-5922 or if you know the name of the advocate assigned to your case, you can contact that individual.)

10. How soon will I get my restitution money?

When the defendant comes into make a payment. The Clerk of Courts office sends the checks out at the beginning of each month.

11. What if the defendant does not pay his restitution?

The Clerk of Courts office sends out a 30 day delinquency letter. A 60 day delinquency letter. If no payments have been made they must appear before the Judge and tell him why they are not making payments.

12. Do I need to be present in court?

You do not need to be present in court unless the Office of Victim Services or the District Attorney’s Office contacts you and asks you to be there, however, as a victim you have the right to be there if you wish.

13. Is restitution mandatory?

Yes. Pennsylvania legislation, Act 1995-12, requires the court to order payment in the following order to: The victim Crime Victim's Compensation Board Any other governmental agency which has provided reimbursement to the victim as a result of the defendant's criminal conduct Any insurance company which has provided reimbursement to the victim as a result of the defendant's criminal conduct.

14. How do I get restitution?

Restitution may be paid in a lump sum, in monthly installments, or in any other payment plan the court may order.

15. Will my restitution be paid promptly?

Collection of restitution may be a lengthy process. The defendant's ability to pay affects when you receive payment. Although the defendant is ordered to pay the restitution, payment may not be made if the defendant has little or no income.

16. What is not covered by restitution?

Submitted claims cannot include lost wages, inflated car values, pain and suffering or the sentimental value of property.

17. Can my insurance company receive reimbursement from the defendant?

Yes. The court can order restitution to your insurance company. You need to provide the Office of Victim Services with your insurance company's address and claim number. A restitution claim form will be sent to your insurance company so that a claim can be submitted.

18. Is someone available to accompany me to court?

A Victim Advocate from the Office of Victim Services, which is part of the District Attorney’s Office, is available to meet you in court, explain the legal proceedings to you, and answer any questions you may have. You may also feel free to call them for updates on your case as it progresses through the system.

▼

Information Technology

Show All Answers

1. How do I send a request help for the web page?

Click the link below. Web Site Help

2. How do I recieve an encrypted email from Washington County?

The instructions are available from this link, Instructions to recieve encrypted email.

▼

Main

Show All Answers

1. How do I contact a city/county department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

▼

Office of the County Controller

Show All Answers

1. Where do I need to call concerning bids and bid openings?

All bid related inquiries should be made to the Purchasing Office. The Purchasing Office can be contacted at 724-228-6740.

2. When are daycare providers paid?

Payment for daycare services are processed for the week of the 15th each month.

3. How often are checks processed by the Controller's Office?

With very few exceptions, checks are processed weekly by the Controller's Office and issued from the Treasurer's Office each Friday.

4. Where can I call to find out the status of a payment or if I have a problem concerning payment?

The Controller's Office can be reached Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 724-228-6800. Our office is closed on all County holidays.

▼

Open Records

Show All Answers

1. Who is the Right to Know Officer for Washington County?

Cindy Griffin, Chief Clerk County of Washington 100 West Beau Street Suite 702 Washington, PA 15301 Web Link: www.co.washington.pa.us/Open_Records

PA Office of Open Records Home Page(html page)

2. Who is the Rule 509 Judicial Administration Officer?

Patrick Grimm
Court Administrator's Office
1 South Main Street
Suite G006
Washington, PA 15301

Fax: 724-228-6938

Email: 509Courtadmin@co.washington.pa.us Rule of Judicial Administration 509 - Public Acc

▼

Planning Commission

Show All Answers

1. What is the Planning Commission?

The Planning Commission has a variety of responsibilities that include mapping of the county, the review of land development and subdivisions, and the orderly development of land. The commission also maintains extensive population and demographic data for the county and provides comprehensive information to potential developers and the general public.

The Planning Commission conducts and prepares numerous studies regarding environmental, economic, and general issues that impact county development and natural resources of the county. The commission also coordinates the development and preparation of various public affairs, information, and educational programs concerning county government. The Bridge Department, Department of Parks and Recreation, and flood control projects all fall under the Planning Commission's jurisdiction. Washington County Planning Commission Home Page

▼

Public Safety

Show All Answers

1. When should I dial 9-1-1?

Any time there is an emergency requiring police, fire, or emergency medical services. If you are in doubt, call!

2. Which 9-1-1 calls are inappropriate?

Calls asking about bingo, parades, weather, social events, news items, etc.

3. During a disaster, how can I find out if rumors I am hearing are true or false?

During disasters, the Washington County Department of Public Safety has established a rumor control line. This line is answered by a professional and will provide accurate information. The number is (724) 250-6552.

▼

Sheriff's Department

Show All Answers

1. Do I have to provide my name when giving information on a fugitives whereabouts?

No, the information you provide will remain confidential, with no names required.  If you have any information on a fugitive please contact the Fugitive unit at (724) 229-5907.

2. What are the office hours of the Sheriff's Department to apply for a gun permit?

We are open from 9 AM - 3: 45 PM, Monday - Friday.

3. What do I need to bring with me to apply for a gun permit?

Your Pennsylvania driver's license with a current Washington County address on it. $20.00 cash only.
Two references to list on the application that are not related to you, except you may use in-laws as a reference. You must also provide their address and phone number.

4. Can I go and see a property that is up for Sheriff's Sale?

No. There is no access to a property that is up for Sheriff''s Sale.

5. What is a Sheriff's Sale?

A Sheriff's Sale is a mortgage foreclosure real estate sale. It is not a tax sale. It is held the first Friday of every month except the month of August. There is no sale in the month of August. It is an open bid auction sale.

6. Should I do a title search on a property?

Yes. If there is a property you are interested in buying, you should either hire a title searcher or do a title search yourself. The Sheriff's Department is not always aware of any liens filed. You are responsible for any liens, unpaid taxes, etc. that are owed on the property.

7. What type of payment is accepted at the Sheriff's Sale?

If you are the successful bidder at the Sheriff's Sale, you must pay 10% of the total price in cash or a certified check from a bank the day of the sale. The balance is due the following Wednesday in cash or a certified check from a bank.

8. Can I bid on a property prior to the actual sale date?

No. We do not accept bids prior to the sale. You must come in person to the sale on the specified date.

9. When are the Sheriff's Sales held?

The sales are held the first Friday of every month at 10 AM. There is no sale in the month of August. Refer to the calender on the Sheriff's Department page for the specific date of the sale.

▼

Tax Assessments

Show All Answers

1. When was the last countywide re-assessment?

The last countywide re-assessment became effective in 2017.

2. Why does property have to be assessed?

Under Pennsylvania law, property taxes are the primary source of revenue for governments and school districts. Property taxes, which are calculated by using assessed values and millage rates set by local government authorities, fund critical services including public safety (fire, police, ambulance), education, corrections, the court system, public health programs, and human service programs.

3. What is an assessment?

An assessment is a fractional portion of the fair market value of your property. In Pennsylvania, the County may choose an assessment from 1% up to 100% of market value. Washington County's ratio is 100% of market value.

4. What is a mill?

A mill is simply the tax rate expressed in mills (thousandths of a dollar) per dollar. One mill is expressed as .001. Ten mills are expressed as .01. One hundred mills are expressed as .10.

5. How do I calculate my County taxes if I know the assessed value?

The current Washington County millage is 2.43 (.00243). Example: Assessed value = 10,000 x .00243 = $24.30 at face.

6. What will happen to my assessment if I improve my property?

Generally speaking, improvements that increase the market value of a property will increase the assessed value. The following are typical items that WILL increase the assessed value of your property. Additions Garages Barns or sheds In-ground pools Extensive remodeling Good maintenance will help retain the market value of your property. Generally your assessed value will not increase for minor repairs. The following list is some of the repairs that will NOT increase your assessment. Driveway paving or repairing Replacing gutters and downspouts Replacing a roof Interior remodeling Exterior painting Landscaping Concrete walks

▼

Tax Claims

Show All Answers

1. Should I phone for an exact amount when paying delinquent taxes?

Due to added costs incurred by the Bureau and interest accruing monthly, it is recommended that all pay-off amounts be confirmed.

2. What type of funds can I use to pay my delinquent taxes?

Cash payments in person under $50.00 are acceptable, but not encouraged. All payments require certified funds or money orders. No personal or personal business checks will be accepted.

3. Are credit or debit cards an acceptable method of payment?

Not at this time. However, in the future, we hope to accommodate these types of payments.

4. Can I pay this tax bill in payments?

Payments are permitted in most cases. To verify your exact situation, it will be necessary to contact the Bureau for specific criteria.

▼

Veterans Affairs Office

Show All Answers

1. How do I obtain a copy of my Discharge (DD-214)?

Upon discharge from Service you were instructed to record your Discharge (DD-214) at your County's Recorder of Deeds Office (check to see if it is recorded). If this was not completed see our web link, Request for Military Records. The National Archives Center recommends that requests be completed on-line as opposed to mail or fax.

2. What can I do now to prepare for burial in a national cemetery?

Gravesites in Department of Veterans Affairs national cemeteries cannot be reserved in advance. Families are encouraged to prepare in advance by discussing cemetery options, collecting the veteran's military information including discharge papers, and by contacting the cemetery or funeral director where burial or services are desired.

3. I am a survivor of a deceased veteran, am I entitled to any benefits?

Please check out the web site, Survivor Benefits, under our web links page.

4. How can I find out the status of a Federal Headstone or Marker order?

Please check out the web site, Checking Status of a Headstone or Marker Request, listed under our web links page.

5. How can I obtain Washington County relocation information?

Click here for Help for Military Families

▼

W.E.L.L. Program

Show All Answers

1. What if I choose not to participate in Wellness Rewards?

Participation in Wellness Rewards is voluntary; however, in order to receive a reward, you need to complete the program per your employer/organization’s requirements.

2. I can view my Health Screening results in my Personal Health Record and Wellness Profile. Why have I not received credit in my Rewards program?

If you have your health screening before you first visit the My Reward page, there may be a slight delay for your results to be reflected on the My Reward page. Check back after 24 hours.

3. How long will it take to complete the Rewards program?

It can take four weeks to three months to complete some activities. It’s best to start these actions as soon as possible to allow time to meet your personal health goals and earn your reward(s). Please check with your employer/organization on specific time periods of your Reward Program.