Public housing was established by the federal government to provide decent and safe rental housing for eligible low-income families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.
Public housing comes in all sizes and types, from scattered single family houses to duplexes and apartments. The Department of Housing Services (DHS) is the owner of many single and multi-family Public Housing units throughout Washington County.
Who is eligible
Public housing is limited to low-income families and individuals. The DHS determines eligibility based on:
- annual gross income;
- whether you qualify as elderly, a person with a disability, or as a family; and
- U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status.
If you are eligible, the DHS will check your references and criminal background to make sure you and your family will be good tenants. Families who have members who have a history of violent criminal activity, drug-related criminal activity, theft, identity theft, or other crimes against persons or property may not be eligible for Public Housing.
How the Public Housing Program works
The Department of Housing Services is the landlord of its Public Housing units. Public Housing participants pay rent directly to the DHS. The amount of rent tenants pay is based upon income, usually about 30% of the household's monthly adjusted income.
How to apply for Public Housing
The waiting list for Public Housing last opened July 26, 2021 through August 4, 2021. The waitlist is not currently open.
More information about the Public Housing program is available from the HUD website.