What does it mean to be a franchised utility?
In order for a utility company to place their facilities (pipes, wires, poles, etc.) in the county road right-of-way, they must have a franchise agreement in place with Pierce County. The franchise agreement details the specific conditions and requirements for the utility company.

All entities that provide utility service for a fee to customers must have a franchise agreement (with the exception of AT&T and Qwest who have rights that pre-date the state law on franchises).

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1. What does it mean to be a franchised utility?
2. Which utility companies are franchised in Pierce County?
3. How do I file a complaint against a utility company?
4. What is the Manual on Accommodating Utilities?