Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

We are ready to help! Click on a topic below for more information.

Can't find what you're looking for? Use our online form to contact the Township or call 937-433-0152.


General Township Information

How do I contact a Trustee or Township department head?

Please visit our Contact Us page for phone numbers and email addresses.

What are the hours for the Township Government Center?

The Government Center, located at 8200 McEwen Road, is generally open from 8am - 4:30pm, Monday-Friday. Please call 937-433-0152 for more information.

Where can I find information about upcoming public meetings?

Upcoming Board of Trustee meetings, as well as Zoning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals meetings, are included on the Township Calendar. Meeting minutes are posted on the relevant page in the Government section of our website.

Where can I find copies of recently passed resolutions/ordinances?

Please visit our Home Rule Resolutions page to view the full text of Home Rule Resolutions passed since 2013.

Click here to view the Township's Zoning Resolution.

I'm a new resident. Who do I contact for trash and water service?

There are three trash haulers that operate in unincorporated Washington Township. Please visit their websites for more information:

Water service must be obtained through Montgomery County Water Services.

Where can I find job postings for Washington Township?

Current job postings are available on our Employment Opportunities page.

Can I schedule a ribbon cutting for my new business in Washington Township?

Please follow these instructions to submit a business recognition event request:

  1. Access our online application here.

  2. Click on the blue Apply Online button.

  3. Click on Sign Up to create an account.

  4. Complete the form with all the details about your event. You’ll also be able to attach a flyer if you have one.

  5. Township staff will receive a notification once you’ve submitted the form and will respond to your request.




Emergency Preparedness

What is the best way to get information during an emergency situation?

In the event of an emergency, Washington Township will use these information outlets, to the extent they are available, to provide emergency updates:

  • CodeRED emergency phone notification

  • Centerville High School radio station WCWT 107.3 FM

  • Washington Township Facebook page

  • Washington Township website

How do I sign up for CodeRED alerts?

In order to inform residents, Washington Township uses CodeRED, an emergency alert system that relays information to residents by phone. The high-speed messaging system can deliver customized emergency notification and instructions at a rate of 60,000 calls per hour.

  • Residential landline telephones automatically receive CodeRED messages.

  • Mobile devices must be registered with CodeREDYou can text WASHINGTONTWP to 99411 to receive a direct link to the enrollment form on your mobile device.

  • Washington Township businesses must register with CodeRED if they wish to receive emergency notifications.

Residents should register if they:

  • Want their cell phone called

  • Want to provide a work phone as a back-up to their home phone

  • Want to provide a caregiver back-up number

  • Recently moved and kept their old phone number

  • Have changed their phone number in the past six months

  • Use a TDD/TTY




Finance

Where can I find information about Washington Township finances?

Please see the Finance section of our website.

Where does Washington Township get its revenue?

The principal source of revenue is from property taxes (collected by Montgomery County). The Township also receives a share of inter-governmental income and other taxes, such as the motor vehicle license tax* and gasoline tax. The Township collects fees for programs and services, as well as earns interest on money invested. See the revenue schedule for details. 

NOTE: When you renew your vehicle registration be sure to mention that you live in Washington Township so that the Township receives its share of the motor vehicle license tax.

Does Washington Township have an income tax?

No. According to Ohio law, townships cannot enact an income tax. If you live in a township and work in a township, you are not subject to a local income tax. Cities, however, may impose an income tax. So, if you either work or live in a city that has a local income tax, you would pay income tax to that city.

What if I'm a resident of Washington Township but work in a city?

If you work in a city, you must pay income tax to that city if they have a local income tax. The Township does not receive any of the money. Your employer usually withholds tax for you. Under Ohio law, local income tax is paid first where you work, and second where you live.

If I own a business in the Township, what type of taxes am I subject to?

If you own the property where your business is located, you are subject to Township property tax for real property (land and buildings). Property tax on tangible property (inventory and fixed assets) has been eliminated by the State of Ohio. Businesses and employees are not subject to any local income tax for income earned in the Township.

How does Washington Township keep track of its assets?

The Township monitors over 3,000 fixed assets in 7 departments at 40 locations (including the incorporated part of the Township). A bar code tag is affixed to each taggable item and can be scanned for a yearly inventory using a portable scanning device. Items that cannot be tagged are assigned a 10-digit tracking number based on location of the item and when it is put into service. The portable scanning device uploads to a computer which keeps a database of current assets.

Does Washington Township have a bid list?

When required by the Ohio Revised Code to conduct a formal bid, the Township advertises for construction projects in the Dodge Report and places legal advertisements in local newspapers.

What is Washington Township's millage?

For the 2024 tax year (taxes paid in 2025), Washington Township will collect a total of 13.643736 mills for a residential property. This is made up of 3.05 inside mills and 10.593736 outside mills.

What is a mill?

Literally, a mill means one thousandth. For tax purposes, each mill generates $1 of taxes for every $1,000 of assessed value.

What is the difference between inside and outside millage?

Inside millage is not voted on by citizens but enacted by State legislature. By law, inside millage cannot exceed 10 mills and is not reduced by a reduction factor. The Township has 3.05 inside mills, and the City of Centerville has 2.35 inside mills.

Outside millage must be voted on by citizens. 

What is a reduction factor?

The reduction factor maintains the existing level of taxes paid on voted millage. The taxing district collects the same amount of revenue that was voted for, regardless of increased property values, except for added value from new construction for the first year. This is known as the fixed income status as a result of House Bill 920, which was passed in 1976 to protect property owners from unvoted tax increases. Under the law, when voters approve a tax levy, they agree to pay a specific amount of money for a specific purpose over a specified time period. A property owner's share of that amount depends on how much their property is worth.




Fire & EMS

What is the best phone number to reach the Fire Department?

For an emergency, dial 9-1-1. For non emergency calls needing the assistance or response of a crew, please dial the non-emergency dispatch number at 937-225-HELP. 

The administrative offices can be reached at 937-433-3083, Monday through Friday, 8am - 4:30pm. Please note that this is a non-emergency number.

In an emergency, how can I get the fastest medical care?

You can help crews respond effectively to a medical emergency in your home when you complete our step-by-step Vial of Life instructions. This includes:

Your medical form should be placed in a sealed plastic bag, along with your photo, and if you have them, copies of these documents:

  • Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare

  • Do Not Resuscitate Orders (DNR)

  • Living Will Declaration

Add the seal to the bag and place it on your refrigerator door. The second decal will adhere to your storm door, front door, or side of your refrigerator. Complete information on this topic is on our Vial of Life page.

Do You Need Assistance with Vial of Life?

Seniors and at-risk residents can receive help through our STAR Program.

Can I get an address sign that helps emergency personnel find my property?

Yes! To more quickly locate your home in an emergency, our Fire Department offers a reflective sign that clearly displays your street address. We'll even install it for you if you'd like!

The 6-inch-by-18-inch signs can be installed easily on a mailbox post and will allow your street address to be prominently displayed on both sides. Our online order form explains more, including fees.

How can I ensure that the fire department can enter my home in the event of an emergency if I'm not home or unable to answer the door?

Knox lock boxes can be placed on front doors of homes or businesses to help aid the Fire Department in entering your property during an emergency. Residents can contact our Fire Marshal at 937-433-3083 for detailed information. 

How do I dispose of an old fire extinguisher?

Fire extinguishers can be disposed of at the Montgomery County Solid Waste Department. Visit their website or call 937-225-4999 for more details. 

There is a leaking fire hydrant. What should I do?

Please contact us at Fire Headquarters at 937-433-3083 to report the location of the leaking hydrant.

What do I do if my water is running brown?

Sometimes this can occur after fire hydrants have been flushed. Try running your water for several minutes to clear the line. If this doesn't work, please contact the Montgomery County Water Department at 937-781-2500. 

Is CPR training available?

Yes. We offer two types of classes through the American Heart Association:

  • Heartsaver CPR AED Course with First Aid - for the general public

  • Healthcare Providers - for healthcare professionals and those who are not medically licensed but required to have certification

Our manikins provide instant feedback to help students improve the quality of CPR compressions. Details are available on our CPR page.

How do I schedule an appointment to donate blood?

The Washington Township Fire Department hosts six blood drives each year. Please visit our website for all the information and to schedule an appointment. 

Do you provide child seat safety checks?

Please visit Dayton Children's for information on car seat safety or to schedule an appointment with one of their certified car seat technicians.




Police

What is the best number to reach the Sheriff's Office?

For an emergency, dial 9-1-1. For non-emergency calls, please call 937-225-4357.

The administrative offices can be reached at 937-432-2777, Monday through Friday, 8am - 4pm. Please note that this is a non-emergency number.

How do I report a traffic violation?

To report a traffic violation in progress, such as speeding, running a stop sign, hit and run accident or reckless operation, call the Sheriff's Office at 937-225-4357. For an ongoing traffic issue, call the traffic services officer at 937-432-2751.

How do I report a car accident?

Contact the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office to report an auto accident. If the accident has not resulted in injury, call 937-225-4357. If you believe someone may be injured, please call 9-1-1.

How do I obtain a copy of an accident report?

Accident reports can be obtained through the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office Records Department by calling 937-225-4096. Reports are available after a minimum of 72 working hours. The cost is a flat fee of $4.

Are there certain locations where parking is not allowed?

Parking is prohibited: 

  • In front of a public or private driveway

  • Within an intersection

  • Within 10 feet of a fire hydrant

  • On a crosswalk

  • Within 1 foot of another parked vehicle

  • Within 30 feet of, and upon the approach to, any flashing beacon, stop sign, or traffic control device

  • At any place where signs prohibit stopping, standing, or parking, or where curbing is painted yellow

  • In a specified handicap space without a permit

For more information, call the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office at 937-225-4357.

Where can I get fingerprints or background checks?

Fingerprint card services are handled at the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office building in Dayton. Please visit the website for more information.

 
How do I request a record check?

Checks on persons for employment, housing permit holders, etc. are made through the Sheriff's Office Records Department at 345 W. Second Street. Hours are 8am - 3:30pm, Monday through Friday. There is a $3 fee per record check. Call the Records Department at 937-225-4096 for information.

Can I report an abandoned vehicle?

The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office is authorized to provide for the removal of any abandoned junk vehicle left unattended upon any street for longer than 72 hours. Any vehicle that is illegally parked, and constitutes a hazard or obstruction to the normal movement of traffic, will be removed. Owners of illegally parked or unattended vehicles may receive a citation and can be liable for towing and/or impound fees.

Junk (unlicensed or inoperable) vehicles may not be left on public or private property. Removal of abandoned vehicles on private property is typically the responsibility of the property owner. For more information, contact the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office at 937-225-4357 or Washington Township Zoning Department at 937-433-0152.

Can I bring in unwanted medications and needles to be disposed of?

Old medications can be safely disposed of at a secure drop box in the lobby of the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office Washington Township Substation, 8190 McEwen Road. Deposits can be made 8am - 4pm, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.

Residents can also dispose of unwanted or expired medications at periodic Super Service Saturday events.  Needles contained in an approved sharps container are also accepted at these events.

How do I report an animal bite?

Animal bites should be reported to the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office Regional Dispatch Center at 937-225-4357 or by contacting Montgomery County Animal Resource Center at 937-898-4457. 

Where are court cases handled?

Traffic, misdemeanor, criminal, and civil court matters are handled in Kettering Municipal Court at 2325 Wilmington Pike. For information, call 937-296-2461.

Juvenile cases are handled in Montgomery County Juvenile Court. For information, call 937-225-4199.

Felony criminal and civil court matters are handled in Montgomery County Common Pleas Court at 41 N. Perry Street. For information, call 937-496-7213.

Where is the nearest Bureau of Motor Vehicles offices?

The locations of the Bureau of Motor Vehicles near Washington Township are:

  • Centerville: 108 W. Spring Valley Road, 937-435-5970

  • West Carrollton: 5582 N. Springboro Pike, 937-866-9511

How can I stop door-to-door solicitors from coming to my house?

In Washington Township, solicitors are prohibited from entering onto private property and selling goods or services when a "No Soliciting" sign is clearly displayed. Township regulations also prohibit vendors from entering premises marked with such signage or from obstructing public ways and private property.
"No Soliciting" stickers are available for free (while supplies last) at the Washington Township Government Center, 8200 McEwen Road.


If solicitors ignore posted signage, residents can file a report by calling the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line at 937-225-4357. 


Click here to read the full Township resolution prohibiting solicitors.

How do I report a noise violation?

Washington Township approved an updated noise ordinance in 2025. Violations will be determined based on whether the noise would disturb the comfort, peace, or health of a reasonable person – meaning an average person using ordinary judgment in a similar situation. Fines will be issued as follows: $250 for the first violation, $500 for the second, and $1,000 for each additional violation.

Noise violations in Washington Township can be reported by calling the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line at 937-225-4357. 

Click here to read the full Township noise resolution.

How can I help with crime prevention?

Deputies at the Washington Township Substation work in partnership with all Township residents to help prevent crime. Officers are available to discuss home, neighborhood, business, and personal security, as well as specific safety topics. Contact Deputy Bill Jones by email or at 937-432-2771to learn more.




Public Works

What type of work needs a permit?

Generally, most types of work done by a contractor within 12 feet of the edge of the roadway require a permit. The $50 fee covers the cost of inspections, which ensures that the work is completed to Township standards. Remember that sprinkler systems, invisible fences, and landscaping should be kept 15 feet away from the street to minimize possible damages during road improvements or utility work.

Our Right-of-Way Permits page explains how to obtain a permit.

When is your large item trash pickup?

Please contact Washington Township's three preferred provider waste haulers to find out their policy on bulk pickup:

My neighbor's sump pump discharges into my yard. What can I do about it?

No resident may directly or indirectly discharge the water from a swimming pool, sump pump, downspout, or other similar source within 10 feet of the property line separating adjacent properties or street right of way. The Township encourages all property owners to connect their sump pumps to the storm sewer system when applicable and subject to approval by the Washington Township Public Works Department. Newer plats may have a drain underneath the curb that can be used for this purpose. Residents in slightly older neighborhoods may be able to connect to a nearby catch basin. In the case of chlorinated pool water, or similar treated water sources, EPA guidelines for decontamination shall be adhered.

Who is responsible for standing water on my property?

The responsibility for the maintenance and improvement of drains, streams, ditches, and watercourses, whether established County/Township ditches or not, rests entirely upon the land owners affected and benefited. It is not the obligation of the County/Township to maintain or improve the storm drainage facilities across any individual’s property for either agricultural purposes or development of suburban home sites. When an individual purchases property, the principal of “Caveat Emptor” or “let the buyer beware,” is the purchaser’s best guideline. Land ownership has many potential and real benefits, but also comes with certain liabilities. Storm drainage facilities fall under the liability category of property ownership. These storm drainage facilities cannot be closed, obstructed, or altered in any way which would reduce the capacity for conveying storm water across private property. Any owner is liable for upstream property damage for failure to properly maintain storm drainage facilities across his own property.”

Passage from Montgomery County Engineer pamphlet, “Responsibility and Procedure for Improvement and Maintenance of Drains, Ditches and Watercourses."

Who picks up dead animals from my yard or from the street?

For removal of animals on a roadway, the answer depends upon which jurisdiction is responsible for maintaining the road.

  • Township Roads - call our Public Works Department at 937-433-0152 to have the carcass removed

  • Montgomery County Roads - call 937-837-2528

  • State Roads - call ODOT at 937-492-1141

Our Street Maintenance page provides information about which streets are maintained by the Township, county and state. 

If the animal is located in your yard, you may have to dispose of it in a plastic bag in your trash.

When does leaf pickup typically take place?

Although every leaf season is different, leaf collection in Washington Township usually takes place from October through December. More information, including routes and helpful tips for a smooth leaf season, are posted to our Leaf Collection web page.

Why aren't your trucks plowing or salting certain roads during winter storms?

Some roads in Washington Township are either state or county roads, and not maintained by our Public Works Department. They include:

County Roads

  • Alex-Bell Road

  • Austin Pike

  • Clyo Road (south of Franklin)

  • Mad River Road

  • Paragon Road (from 725 to Spring Valley)

  • Rahn Road (from Mad River to 48)

  • Social Row Road

  • Spring Valley Pike (east of 48)

  • West Whipp Road

  • Yankee Street

State Roads

  • State Route 48

  • I-675 and ramps

  • State Route 725

Montgomery County and Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) roads are spread over a large area and sometimes response times can be delayed.

Neighboring Jurisdiction

Some roads run through both Washington Township and Centerville, so are maintained by either the Township or the City, depending upon the location. The city maintains:

  • Clyo Road (north of Franklin)

  • East Whipp Road

  • State Route 48 (within city limits)




Recreation & Parks

How can I learn more about RecPlex programs, hours, and fees?

Please visit the Recreation portion of our website. The RecPlex also maintains a frequently asked questions page.

Where can I find information about area parks?

Most parks in Centerville-Washington Township are operated by the Centerville-Washington Park District. CWPD maintains 51 parks encompassing more than 1,000 acres and offering varying amenities.

Washington Township operates Countryside Park, which is located adjacent to the RecPlex on Miamisburg-Centerville Road.

Stubbs Park is maintained by the City of Centerville.




Zoning & Development

I’m planning an exterior improvement. What’s the first step?

When planning an exterior improvement to your property, start by contacting our Zoning and Development Department at 937-433-0152. Many outdoor projects require a zoning certificate. Our staff can tell you if a certificate is necessary for your project and provide the information you need to get started.

I want to place a structure on my property. What do I do?

A zoning certificate is required for a shed or other type of accessory structure.

The most important consideration is making sure that the proposed structure meets setback requirements. Depending on the zoning district in which you live, required setbacks could be as little as five feet from the side property line or as large as 40 feet from the side property line. Square footage and height requirements also apply.

In addition, structures 200 square feet and larger require a building permit. Residents should contact Montgomery County at 937-225-4622 to see if a building permit is required for their structure.  

What are the requirements for adding a fence?

A zoning certificate is required for a fence, and an application request must be submitted to the Township's Development Services Department prior to installation. Also, Montgomery County requires a building permit if you are planning to construct a concrete wall.

Fences should be no higher than 4 feet in height if located in the front yard, nor 6 feet in height if located in the side or rear yards. Height requirements vary for a corner or double frontage lot. It is recommended that you contact us for additional information.

While fences may be placed directly on your property line, residents are encouraged to speak first with their neighbor to make sure maintenance of the other side of the fence is not going to be a problem. It is recommended that you have your property surveyed prior to installing your fence. There are several qualified licensed surveyors listed online.

What do I need to do to install a pool?

In order to assure that pools meet proper setbacks and fencing, the Township requires zoning certificates for all swimming pools. A building permit from Montgomery County is also required. Pools must have a minimum 4-foot high fence around them, and all gates must have an operable lock.

Can I get a copy of my plot plan? Are there easements on my property?

Most site plans for lots within Washington Township are kept on file in the Development Services office. If you wish to obtain a copy of your site plan, please call ahead with the name of your subdivision and your lot number or your address. Official deeds and easement information are on file at the Montgomery County Administration Building, 451 West Third Street in Dayton.

I'm interested in adding onto my home. Where do I find Development Standards (setbacks and other limiting factors) for my property?

This information is outlined in Article 7 of the Township Zoning Resolution.

Zoning District information for properties may be found in the Township Zoning Map, which determines specific criteria. If your property is zoned PD-R (Planned Development Residential), please contact us. 

How may I store my recreational vehicles and equipment?

Recreational vehicles and equipment must be screened from adjacent properties by a solid evergreen hedge row or a solid fence at least 5 feet longer than the object being screened. Residential properties are limited to one recreational vehicle.

Height requirements for the two types of screening:

  • Evergreen - Equal in height to the items being screened or at least 8 feet tall

  • Solid fence - 6 feet tall if the RV or equipment is 8 feet or less in height 

RVs and recreational equipment also:

  • Must be parked behind the front line of the house

  • Cannot be stored in the required side and rear yard setbacks

  • Must be parked on an impervious surface, not grass 

RVs and recreational equipment may be stored on a driveway for routine maintenance for 7 days at a time and for no more than 45 days per calendar year. The maximum allowable length is 35 feet for recreational vehicles.

How may I store my utility trailer?

Residential properties are limited to one utility trailer. These must be screened from adjacent properties by a solid evergreen hedge row or a solid fence that is:

  • At least 6 feet high

  • At least 5 feet longer than the object being screened 

Utility trailers also:

  • Must be parked behind the front line of the house

  • Cannot be stored in the required side and rear yard setbacks

  • Must be parked on an impervious surface, not grass 

Utility trailers may be temporarily stored for 48 consecutive hours within a seven-day period, but no more than 45 days per calendar year. The maximum allowable length is 30 feet for utility trailers.

My neighbor hasn't cut his grass. What can I do?

If a neighbor's property becomes overgrown (weeds and grasses higher than 8 inches) or if debris is strewn about the yard, Development Services can probably help resolve the situation.

Call us to report a violation and you can remain anonymous. Our department will ask the property owner to mow the lawn and/or pick up the trash. For those unwilling to comply, the Township hires a contractor to do the work and assesses the property tax.

What can I do with my sump pump discharge?

Although state law prohibits townships from working on private property, we will be glad to meet with you and discuss possible solutions to your drainage problems. Sump pump drains are allowed to be connected to the storm sewer, but NOT to the sanitary sewer. The Township prohibits sump pump or downspout lines from discharging directly onto the sidewalk or into the street. Discharge points must be at least 10 feet from the property line.

Am I in a flood zone?

Montgomery County has authority concerning flood plains. However, Washington Township can provide you with copies of the FEMA flood maps. The maps are used by most mortgage companies to determine if a particular lot lies within the flood plain.

Are there requirements for a commercial sign?

All commercial signs, both permanent and temporary, require a zoning certificate. Specific provisions for different types of signs are provided in the Township's zoning resolution, or you can call the zoning department for further information at 937-433-0152.

What if I do not see an answer to my question?

If you do not see your question answered here, please contact the Development Services Department at 937-433-0152. We’re happy to speak with you about your project!