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1. Will my utilities be shut off if I miss a payment?

The City will not be disconnecting services at this time due to inability to pay, nor will we assess any late fees up to 60 days after the state of emergency order is rescinded. To learn more and to find utility assistance, please see here. Puget Sound Energy has also announced they will not be disconnecting customers for non-payment at this time; flexible payment plans and energy assistance are available. Learn more here.

2. What are the travel restrictions for Washington state?

Currently, there are no travel restrictions in and out of Washington state, and airports are not generally covered by a shelter in place order. However, it is highly recommended that all non-essential travel be limited at this time to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Some international travel is already limited, including travel to China, Iran, the European Schengen area, United Kingdom, and Republic of Iceland. Learn more about current travel restrictions here.

3. What remains open in Puyallup during the stay home order?

Grocery stores, banks, gas stations, pharmacies, medical facilities, laundromats, take-out restaurants and food banks remain open. Additionally, all other businesses deemed essential will continue. Non-essential businesses where employees cannot telecommute are temporarily closed. All City of Puyallup parks and trails are closed, including playground equipment, shelters and recreational areas.

All Washington State parks have closed as of March 25^th, with more state public land closures likely to occur in the upcoming week(s). Learn more about those closures here.

4. What are considered essential businesses? How do I find out if I am essential?

The Governor issued a list of essential businesses that can continue to provide services during the stay home order. View that list here.

5. Do essential employees need to keep documentation from their employers on their persons when they travel to and from work?

No, according to the Department of Commerce and confirmed by the Governor’s office, essential employees in the state of Washington do not need to carry a pass or other documentation on their persons or in their vehicles to travel to and from work. Some employers are giving such documentation to their employees in an abundance of caution, but this is not required.

6. Where do I begin to find resources as a small business owner or worker who has been recently laid off due to COVID-19 closures?

For Business and Employer resources, please visit our city’s website here.

For Employee resources, learn more information here.

7. How do I report a non-essential business violating the Governor’s order to close?

The Governor’s office offers a form for reporting suspected violations of the order to close. This report will be forwarded to the appropriate agency for follow-up. If you have witnessed any activity you believe violates the order, please do not call 9-1-1.Instead, you may call the non-emergency number at 253-798-4721.

8. What specifically does this “stay home stay healthy” order mean? What am I allowed to do?

The stay home order mandates individuals should cease to leave their homes or place of residence except: (1) to participate in essential activities, and/or (2) for employment in an essential business service. Essential activities may include: obtaining necessary supplies and services (groceries, household supplies); attending medical appointments or obtaining medical supplies and medications; caring for a family member, friend or pet in another residence; and engaging in outdoor exercise/activities (such as walking, hiking, or biking) where social distancing practices can be used.

9. What are grocery shopping options for seniors or other at-risk groups?

Many grocery stores have announced that they are designating certain hours for elderly and at-risk shoppers. Delivery and pick-up services are also encouraged to reduce social contact. See here for a list of retailers with special times set aside for at-risk shoppers.

10. How can I find out which local restaurants are offering take-out or delivery?

For a list of local Puyallup eateries offering take-out and/or delivery, please see our list here.

11. Courts are closed. How do I file a document, pay a fine, or participate in my scheduled hearing?

For more information on the Puyallup’s Municipal Court closure and how to file a document, pay a fine, or hearing and jury information, see here.

12. I need to report a Covid-19 issue. What is the Puyallup Police Department’s non-emergency number?

Puyallup Police Department Non-Emergency Line: (844) 821-8911

For COVID-19 related questions, please call: (253) 864-4170, 9am to 4pm, M-F. The City has opened a call center to answer questions about service changes and resource availability resulting from the COVID-19 outbreak. Individuals calling outside of those hours can leave a voicemail which will be returned the next business day.

13. What should I do if I am experiencing COVID-19 symptoms?

If you are experiencing mild symptoms (such as a low fever, runny nose, and cough), you should recover at home, and quarantine yourself for the recommended 14-day period. If you experience any severe symptoms (breathing difficulties, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, confusion or inability to arouse), seek medical attention immediately by calling 9-1-1.

14. Are COVID-19 symptoms different in children than adults?

No. The symptoms of COVID-19 are similar in children and adults. However, children with confirmed COVID-19 have generally presented with mild symptoms. Reported symptoms in children include cold-like symptoms, such as fever, runny nose, and cough. Vomiting and diarrhea have also been reported. It’s not known yet whether some children may be at higher risk for severe illness, for example, children with underlying medical conditions and special healthcare needs.

15. When and how should I get tested?

Not everyone needs to be tested for COVID-19. Those individuals experiencing mild cold-like symptoms (low fever, runny nose, cough) should remain at home and recover. Testing results are helpful in that they help inform decision-making in quarantining and who you choose to come in close contact with. If you have symptoms of COVID-19 and believe you need to be tested, call your medical provider or local or state health department for guidance. While supplies of these tests are increasing, it may still be difficult to find a place to get tested, and it may not be recommended, if you are experiencing mild symptoms and can remain at home to recover.

16. Can my animal catch the virus? Should I worry about animal to human transmission?

There is currently no evidence that companion animals, including pets, can spread COVID-19, or that they might be a source of infection in the United States. However, it is encouraged that individuals wash their hands after handling your pets or their waste. Please call your veterinarian if you have questions about your pet’s health.