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380

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1. Who is responsible for US 380?

US 380 is a state highway and is under the control of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).  Although controlled by the state, the portion of the road that is between FM 720/Oak Grove Parkway and Doe Creek is within the Little Elm Town limits. TxDOT controls the speed limit, signal light placement and timing, and construction projects; however, the Town of Little Elm provides law enforcement and traffic control along with the Denton County Sherriff's Office and the Department of Public Safety.

2. Who sets the speed limit along 380?

TxDOT sets the speed limit for 380; however, the speed limit is enforced by the Town of Little Elm in conjunction with the Denton County Sherriff's Office and the Department of Public Safety.

3. Who controls the traffic signals and signal placement along 380?

TxDOT also manages the timing of signals and placement of traffic signal along 380.

4. Is 380 hands free?

The portion of 380 that runs through Little Elm, as well as the entire Town of Little Elm, is hands-free. Remember, when in Town, put it down! Click here to watch our Hands Free When Driving video.

5. Will the Town annex the unincorporated areas along 380 of Paloma Creek?

Currently, there is no plan for the Town of Little Elm to annex unincorporated parts of Paloma Creek. To view the current map of Town of Little Elm incorporated areas along 380, click here.

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Administration/Town Hall

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1. When is Town Hall open?

Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Friday 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., except for federal holidays and weather emergencies.

2. Who is the Town Manager?

Matt Mueller, Town Manager

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Animal Services

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1. 1. Where are you located?

We are located at 1605 Mark Tree Lane, Little Elm, TX 75068.

2. 2. What are your hours?

We are located at 1605 Mark Tree Lane Little Elm, TX 75068. We are open to the public Monday–Friday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

3. 3. How do I file a complaint an irresponsible pet owner or request animal service?

To file a complaint or request service, please call 972377-1898 to speak with an Animal Services Officer. If an ASO is not available to personally answer your call, please leave a voicemail and your call will be returned as soon as possible. The ASO will need the exact physical address of the complaint, description of the animal (if known), owner’s address (if known), and nature of the complaint. The request for service will be assigned to a field ASO who will investigate the complaint and take appropriate action. 

4. 4. What pets are available for adoption?

Most of the animals needing new homes can be seen on our Adoption Information page. Our selection changes regularly, so if you are interested in adopting a pet, we ask that you visit our shelter during regular business hours. We cannot hold animals for potential adopters, and all adoptions are done on a first come, first serve basis.

5. 5. What do I need to do if I have lost/found an animal?

Lost: If you have a lost pet, we will ask that you come to the shelter or visit our lost and found page, and make a lost/found report. It is the owner’s responsibility to visit the shelter and reclaim any lost pet before the expiration of the animal’s five-day hold period. 

Found: All found animals must be reported to Animal Services. Finders can bring the animal to our shelter anytime during our regular hours, or they can request that an Animal Services Officer pick the animal up from their residence. If you are willing to care for the animal until the owner can be located, please let us know when you report it and bring the animal to the shelter or take to a vet to be scanned for a microchip. Please be advised that after five days, you are considered the owner of said found animal and will be required to abide by all City Ordinances and State Laws, including rabies vaccination.

6. 6. Can I surrender my pet for adoption?

Town of Little Elm residents can bring their pets to the Animal Shelter anytime during the regular hours. **Proof of residency will be required in order to surrender an animal, such as a water bill or electric bill. All animals that are surrendered by their owner immediately become the property of the Town of Little Elm. While euthanasia is always a last resort, Little Elm Animal Services can never guarantee adoption for any animal that is surrendered to us, and therefore, request that animals only be brought to us when no other housing alternatives are available.

7. 7. Can I surrender my pet to be put to sleep?

Town of Little Elm residents can bring their pets to the shelter for euthanasia anytime during our regular shelter hours. **We do not provide euthanasia services on Saturdays.

The owner must sign a euthanasia request form pay a $35.00 fee to perform this service. We request that residents bring their animal to the shelter. All euthanasia is performed by a humane lethal injection and the remains are then cremated. Owners may not be present when the euthanasia is performed and no private cremations are offered. If the owner wants a private cremation or for remains to be returned to them, they must make arrangements with one of the local private crematories and let us know which company will be coming to pick the remains up at the time the animal is brought to the shelter.

8. 8. A bobcat or coyote was spotted in my neighborhood, what should I do?

Sightings of coyotes and bobcats are common in Little Elm and throughout the North Texas area. A sighting of a healthy coyote/bobcat does not constitute a threat to residents, and as long as their behavior appears normal, there is no reason to contact Animal Services. Contrary to popular belief, these animals do not live only in rural settings, and many have adapted to survive in suburban and urban areas. 

These small predators may appear to be a threat, but pose very little danger to people. On rare occasions, pets have been attacked by a coyote or bobcat. 

Homeowners actually benefit from the presence of coyotes and bobcats because their predation keeps the population of rodents and vermin in the area. For more information, visit www.dfwwildlife.org. 

Dos and Don'ts 

•    Do keep small dogs and cats inside at night.

•    Do keep the covers secured on your trash receptacles. 

•    Do keep your dog and cat on a leash (as required by city ordinance). 

•    Do report the coyote/bobcat sighting to the DFW Wildlife Coalition at 972-234-9453. 

•    Do try to consider that they were here first. 

•    Don’t feed your pets on the back porch or leave food out overnight. 

•    Don’t walk your small dog in wooded areas. 

•    Don’t approach, chase, make noises at, throw rocks at, or otherwise taunt a coyote or bobcat. 

•    Don’t approach any wild animal that appears trapped, injured, or sick. Contact Animal Services immediately at 972-377-1898. 

•    Don’t ever try to touch a coyote, bobcat, or any other wild animal.

9. 9. What do I do if I am bitten by a dog or cat?

If you are bitten by an animal, even if it is your own animal, you are required by State law to report the bite to your Local Rabies Control Authority. If after hours, you can call our on-call officer at 469-853-2929, and an officer will be in contact with you.

10. 10. I found an orphaned baby rabbit/bird/squirrel/other wildlife, what should I do?

Many times these animals are not "orphans" at all; they are either already old enough to be on their own or are still being cared for by parents who purposely stay away to prevent attracting predators. The best thing to do is to call the DFW Wildlife Coalition at 972-234-9453 or visit www.dfwwildlife.org for more information. They can help you determine if the animal is in need of assistance and contact a local wildlife rehabilitator if necessary.

11. 11. Can I get my dog or cat vaccinated at the shelter?

The Little Elm Shelter does not provide vaccinations to the public, however, Texas Coalition for Animal Protection (TCAP) comes to the shelter quarterly to provide low-cost vaccinations and other basic veterinary services such as heartworm tests, nail trims, and other treatments. You can contact the Animal Shelter at 972-377-1898 for more information or visit the info page here. 

12. 12. Will you remove bees from my yard?

The Little Elm Animal Services officers are not equipped to handle bees. A pest control or professional bee removal company would need to be contacted to remove the bees.

13. 13. Will you remove a snake from my home?

If a snake is in your home or garage, an Animal Services Officer will remove it. If the snake is in your yard, those will not be removed. Your yard is their natural habitat. If the snake is left alone, it will leave on its own.

If you have additional questions, or you need more information, contact Animal Services at 972-234-9453.

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Community Integrity

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1. How are codes enforced?

The code enforcement process is typically initiated in several ways: 1) observation of a code violation by Town staff as they patrol the community and do their jobs; 2) as a consequence of an action (for example, an application for a building permit or a request for a zoning variance); or 3) in response to a complaint by an individual.

2. How do I notify the Town about a possible code violation?

A complaint about a possible code violation is made by letter, telephone, email, or in person to the appropriate Town department. In an average year, the Town receives thousands of complaints related to possible code enforcement violations.

Please be prepared with specific information, such as the address of the property, detailed description of the situation, and the length of time you have observed the situation. Complaints may be made anonymously (however, this may restrict the Town's ability to follow-up on the complaint or our ability to obtain additional details which might assist in resolving the situation).

3. What is the procedure for following up on possible code violations?

Town staff responds to code enforcement complaints according to the impact of the violation on the community. Situations that appear to pose a serious risk to health and safety are given top priority; others are pursued in the order in which they are received.

For all types of code complaints, the first step in the follow-up procedure is personal contact by a Town staff member to ascertain if a code violation exists, and to request remediation. If the individual responsible for the situation is not available, or appears unwilling to voluntarily correct the code violation in a timely manner, a notice of violation or a citation may be issued. The Town may also take court action if the situation poses a significant risk to the community or if the individual has ignored previous notices/citations. 

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Economic Development

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1. What does the Little Elm Economic Development Corporation do?

The Little Elm EDC is charged with attracting new commercial business, new tourism opportunities, and new jobs to Little Elm. Our mission is to advance economic development in Little Elm while capitalizing on our lakeside character and sense of community.

2. How can I do business in Little Elm?

The Little Elm Economic Development Corporation recommends to local residents and prospective entrepreneurs who desire to locate a small business in the Town to contact the following governmental agencies for information on business planning and how to develop a plan to finance a business. Learn more on our Economic Development Corporation site here. 

•    U.S. Small Business Administration 

•    Texas Guide to Starting a Business

•    Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

•    North Central Texas College Small Business Development Center

We are more than happy to help identify space for perspective businesses looking for tenant space, once a business plan has been solidified. That business plan should to include the following information:

•       The amount of the capital investment

•       Number of jobs it will create

•       Anticipated Annual Sales

•       Will it all be taxable? If so, what percent sales tax is expected to be generated

 

3. How does buying online benefit the economy of the Town?

Buying online and having your items delivered to an address within Little Elm‘s geographical boundaries helps because the sales tax from those purchases are allocated to the Town.

4. When leasing a commercial site, what does NNN mean?

These pass through expenses of leasing are portions tenants or lessees pay in addition to the lease fee, or rent to the landlord or lessor. The NNN fees are property taxes, property insurance, and common area maintenance and will change year to year based on the reassessed values.

5. Why are there so many dentists, nail salons, and donut shops?

The market determines the need for these services. Each business owner will do an analysis to determine if the market can bear another one of these types of businesses. Usually, they take smaller spaces and are willing to pay the higher lease rates to be in an area with the draw of a big box retailer.

6. How can I get my favorite business to open up in Little Elm?

We are always happy to take suggestions! A contact name and number/email for the business you like is always helpful. The biggest challenge is knowing who to contact. We consider all suggestions, and pursue the businesses that emulate the Town’s strategic vision and the probability of the operator’s success. It is important to know that often corporations have specific criteria that must be met before they will consider a site. Occasionally the town may not meet the benchmarks they require, but we constantly circle back to those businesses in hopes that will consider us in the future. Feel free to send your ideas our way! We are always willing to chase perspective leads & try and recruit those unique venues to Little Elm.  

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Fire Department

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1. Does the fire department offer CPR classes?

No, not currently. Contact the American Heart Association or the Dallas Chapter of the American Red Cross for information on CPR classes offered in our area.
www.americanheart.org or www.redcrossdallas.org

2. Ambulance Billing

All ambulance billing is outsourced to a third party. If you need to provide insurance information or have a question about a bill, please contact Emergicon toll-free at 1-877-602-2060 for assistance.

Payments for ambulance billing should be mailed directly to Emergicon per the instructions provided on the billing. Payments are not accepted at any of our fire stations.

3. Does the fire department host birthday parties?

No, but we can arrange for a fire engine to stop by your party if the location is in town. Contact Amy Ferguson at aferguson@littleelm.org or 214-975-0420 to schedule.

4. I changed the battery in my smoke detector, but it keeps beeping.

Batteries in all smoke detectors need to be changed out at the same time, preferably twice a year. Dust and dirt buildup also affects how well the units operate, so clean your smoke detectors thoroughly when you change out the batteries.

Additionally, smoke detectors have an life span of around ten (10) years. If your home is close to this age, you can remove one of your smoke detectors and see the manufacture date on the back label. If the detector is nearly 10 years old or older, you may need to replace the detector(s).

If the problem persists, contact the fire administration office at 214-975-0420 during normal business hours. After hours, contact Denton County at 1-940-349-1600.

5. Does the Town have a tornado shelter?

No, residents are encouraged to shelter in place during severe weather. Information links on emergency preparedness can be found on the Town's website under Departments, select Fire Department, and then Emergency Management; and, also on the Town of Little Elm Office of Emergency Management Facebook page.

6. Who do I contact about a home safety inspection for adoption or foster home designation?

To schedule a home safety inspection, contact Deputy Fire Marshal Andy Sissney at asissney@littleelm.org or 214-975-0417.

7. Does the fire department assist in car seat installation?

No. Please check with one of the local hospitals for assistance with this task.

8. Does the Town require a burn permit for outdoor burning?

Yes, for residents living within town limits. You may burn brush, but no trash or building material. Permits are $25 and can be purchased at the Public Safety Building, Records Section in the lobby at 88 W. Eldordao Parkway, Monday-Friday between 8 am and 5 pm. Payments by check or cash (exact change please).

For residents outside town limits, visit Denton County's website for information on their burn permit process. If you are not sure if you are in the Town limits or in the county, contact Andy Sissney at asissney@littleelm.org or 214-975-0417 for clarification.
Denton County website

9. Is today a burn day?

Denton County’s Emergency Management Office makes the determination on burn days. Call 1-940-349-2840 for automated information and to log in your control burn or visit Denton County's website to do this online. Denton County website

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Garage Sales

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1. How do I obtain a permit?

Garage sale permits are available at the Receptionist Desk located on the first floor of Town Hall (100 West Eldorado Parkway) Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Friday 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Garage Sale Permits can also be purchased online using a credit card here. 

After purchasing, you can go to the Little Elm Public Library or Little Elm Recreation Center with their receipt to exchange for five garage sale signs.

During regular business hours, residents can visit the Permitting Department in Town Hall to purchase Garage Sale Permits in person or redeem their receipt.

The fee is $10.00 (cash or check) and includes five (5) signs that meet our specifications. The permit may only be obtained by an adult occupant of the property where the garage sale will be conducted, or their designated representative. Proof of ownership or occupancy may be verified by the Town by a copy of the deed, copy of the rental / lease agreement or by water account information. You will be required to post a copy of the permit on the location of the garage sale throughout the duration of the sale.

2. How many can I have?

Garage sale permits are issued by property address, not applicant name. Each address is allowed three garage sales per calendar year. A minimum of 30 days must elapse between garage sales.

Community garage sales do not count against your three allowed sales per year.

3. Where are they allowed?

A garage sale may only be issued for properties that are zoned for residential use. Garage sale items may be displayed for sale only in the following areas: residential yard, garage, patio area, under a carport covering, driveway or inside a residence.

4. How long can it run?

A garage sale permit will be valid for up to three consecutive calendar days. On each day, the garage sale is allowed to open 30 minutes following the sunrise and must close 30 minutes before sunset. All garage sale items must be removed by 8 a.m. the day following the last day of the sale.

5. What happens if there is a cancellation?

If inclement weather occurs during the garage sale long enough to cause a full day’s worth of cancellation, the garage sale shall not count towards the three allowed garage sales per year for that property. The occupant must contact the Planning and Development Department the next business day following the cancellation to reschedule the sale.

If the applicant does not notify the Planning & Development Department the following business day, the garage sale will be counted. Permit fees will not be refunded under any circumstances.

6. Can my friends sell their goods at my garage sale?

No more than three families may combine their property for sale at a single garage sale. If you want to include more than three families then you will need to follow the regulations for a Community
Garage Sale.

7. What are Community Garage Sales?

A Community Garage Sale can be held by an Organized Neighborhood Association (POA, HOA, NA). Each Neighborhood Association is allowed two Community Garage Sales per calendar year. A Board member of the Neighborhood Association would be responsible for obtaining the permit. Community Garage Sales do not count against your allowed sales per year for your individual property.

Items must be placed at least seven feet back from the curb and at least five feet from the sides of the property.

8. Can nonprofit organization conduct garage sales?

A nonprofit organization may conduct a garage sale on the Nonprofit Organization’s property regardless of zoning or on other property with permission. If the Nonprofit desires to conduct a garage sale on property not its own they must present a letter from the property owner authorizing the garage sale on their property. The letter must include the name of the nonprofit organization as well as the dates the sale is to take place.

The garage sale will be counted as a sale for the property on which it takes place. The number of families in the garage sale is not restricted.

9. How many signs can I have?

The Town will issue five signs for each garage sale. All other signs are strictly prohibited. You may only use the signs provided to you by the Town and only for the sale they are permitted for.

10. Do I have to pay for the signs?

When you apply for a garage sale permit you will be provided five signs from the Town. The fee for the permit covers the cost of the signs. These signs must then be affixed to a wood or metal stake.

11. Where can I put the signs?

No signs are allowed in any public right of way or on a utility pole. Prior to placement of a garage sale sign on private property, permission must be obtained from the
property owner. Such permission must be indicated by the property owner’s signature on the back of the garage sale sign.

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General

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1. I am being charged a nonresident fee to use a facility, but my address says that I live in Little Elm. I am a Little Elm resident, right?

To be a resident of Little Elm, you must live within Town limits and pay Town of Little Elm property taxes. (Note: It is important to understand that while you may live within the boundaries of the Little Elm Independent School District, you may not be a resident of the Town of Little Elm as the District map does not follow Town limits.)

2. How Can I Find Out If I Am A Resident of Little Elm?

Although your driver’s license or the post office has listed your mailing address as Little Elm, you could still live outside of Town limits. If you live outside of Town limits, this means you do not pay Town of Little Elm property taxes and are not a resident of Little Elm. If you reside outside of Little Elm, are not eligible for Town services, such as water and sewer service. (Note: some residents of Little Elm along the 380 corridor and in Union Park do not get Little Elm utilities, but pay property taxes to the Town and are therefore residents). 

The best way to determine if you are indeed a resident of the Town of Little Elm is to check your tax status by looking at your property tax statement at www.dentoncad.org. 

3. Can I Use Little Elm Facilities if I Am a Nonresident?

Absolutely! We welcome you and would love for you to take advantage of all that Little Elm has to offer regarding our parks and recreation amenities, library services, and our Town events! If you have questions about residency, please let us know!

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Library

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1. How do I get a library card?

Applicants must complete a library card application available at the Front Desk.

You must show proof of current address in the form of an ID or document such as a lease or utility bill. Parents can obtain a card for their minor children. Download the Library Card Application

2. Do you have internet access?

Yes, currently there are five computer stations that can access the internet. Soon, after the Library construction is completed, there will be a computer room with over 30 computers. If you wish to print, black and white prints cost fifteen cents and color prints cost fifty cents.

3. Do you have a fax?

Yes, you can send and receive faxes. Costs for outgoing faxes are:
$0.50 cents per page for both local and long distance faxes. Incoming faxes are $0.50 per page.

4. Do you have tax forms?

Yes, in fact we have them all year. Or if you have access to the Internet you can download forms from IRS tax forms

5. How do I renew items?

You can renew items in person or by calling (214)975-0430, or through the electronic catalog.

6. What if the item I want is checked out?

If an item is checked out you may place a hold to reserve that item. 

7. Does the library accept donations?

Currently the library is accepting donations that are in good/like new condition. Current or recent best sellers, CDs, or DVDs may be added to our collection, but donated items become the property of Little Elm Public Library and we reserve the right to handle as is appropriate.

8. Where can I get more details about library cards, hold, renewals, and donations?

For more details about library cards, holds, renewals, visit https://www.littleelmlibrary.org/

9. How do I get a PIN?

A PIN must be obtained in person at the library. Just bring in your card or ID for verification and library staff will issue your PIN.

If you lose or forget your PIN a new PIN can only be issued in person.

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New Hours

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1. What are the new hours for the Town of Little Elm during the pilot program?

The new hours will be Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

2. When do the new hours take effect?

The new hours will begin on Jan. 2, 2019 and run until July 2, 2019. At that time, the Town will then evaluate the success of the program and determine if the change in hours will be adopted.

3. Why is the Town changing its hours?

We are changing our customer service hours to allow customers the opportunity to take care of things at Town Hall before and after traditional work hours, on their way to or on the way home from work.

4. What departments are going to be affected?

The change in hours will affect administrative offices, including the Town Manager’s office, Finance, Utility Billing, Information Technology, Human Resources, administrative personnel in Parks and Recreation, Fire, and Development Services (except for building inspectors).

The Library, Animal Services, Recreation Center and Senior Center, Municipal Court, and Police and Fire service personnel will maintain their current hours.

5. What do I do if I need to open a new water bill and trash services account?

To set up a new water and trash services account by calling 214-975-0480.

6. What do I do if I need to pay my water and trash bill? You can pay your water and trash bill:

•    Online Bill Pay Options: https://bit.ly/2zNaagb.

•    Night drop box located in front of Town Hall at 100 W. Eldorado Parkway, Little Elm, TX 75068, indicates payments deposited after 8 a.m. are not processed until the next business day. To avoid penalties and/or service/reconnect fees from being applied to your account, your payment must be made in the office by 5 p.m. on the bill's due date. 

•    By mail. If mailing in your payment, please allow five to seven business days for payment delivery. If you are mailing your payment, please remember to: include your water bill stub, do not fold, staple, stamp, or write on payment stub. Also, make check(s) or money order(s) payable to the Town of Little Elm and write your water bill account number on the front of the check and mail payment to:

Town of Little Elm 

Water Department 

100 W. Eldorado Parkway

Second Floor 

Little Elm, Texas 75068-5060

7. I need to purchase a Garage Sale Permit, but the Permit Department is closed. What do I do?

At any time you can go online to purchase a Garage Sale Permit using a credit card here. 

After purchasing, you can go to the Little Elm Public Library or Little Elm Recreation Center with your receipt to exchange for five garage sale signs.

During regular business hours, you can visit the Permitting Department in Town Hall to purchase garage sale permits in person or redeem you receipt.

8. What do I do if I need Police or Fire services?

The change in hours only affect the administration offices. In the event of an emergency, please call 911. For non-emergency situations, please call 940-349-1600 and follow the prompts.

9. What do I need to do if I need to report a water emergency?

If you have an after-hours water emergency, call 214-975-0480 to report.

10. How do I report code violations, street repairs, or ask the Town a question?

Report issues or inquiries through the Town's online request center here: https://bit.ly/2rsYLOd

11. What do I need to do if I need more information about the Town, a program, service, or event?

Visit our website at www.littleelm.org or our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/townoflittleelm

Stay informed by signing up for The Mainsail here: http://bit.ly/Mainsail 

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Parks & Recreation

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1. What facilities can I rent and how do I do that?

Rentals must be made in person Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. or Friday 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Parks and Recreation Administrative Office inside the Little Elm Recreation Center at 303 Main St., Little Elm, TX 75068. 

If you have any questions regarding our rental facilities, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 972-731-3296. Fees Rental fees can be paid for by cash, check or money order, payable to "Town of Little Elm", or credit cards. Payments, fee and deposit, are due at the time of reservation. We do not hold reservations without payment. The deposit will be returned by mail 2-3 weeks after event, as long as there are no violations of the rules.

You can rent pavilions at Little Elm Beach (two available), Beard Park, and the Splash Pad. There are rooms at the Little Elm Recreation Center available, and the Community Center. 

More...

2. Where do I sign up for youth sports leagues?

You can register your child through the Little Elm Area Youth Sports Association (LEAYSA) website.

3. What adult sport leagues do you offer?

Our adult athletic leagues are managed from the Rec Center. For more information on leagues, dates, etc visit www.teamsideline.com/littleelm. More...

4. Do the parks and beach cost money?

No, they are free for residents and non-residents.

There is a parking fee in Little Elm Park between Memorial weekend and Labor Day, including Friday, June 15. This does NOT include July 4. It is $10 per car each time you park. Or, season passes are available at the Rec Center; $25/resident and $75/non-resident. 

5. Does it cost to park in Little Elm Park?

Beginning Memorial weekend, May 25, the Town will be charging a $10 per car parking fee on Saturdays, Sundays, and Memorial Day. This is through Labor Day and not a come and go pass.

However, to provide a cost reduction to Little Elm residents, a $25 seasonal parking pass is available. This pass is valid any time there are parking fees throughout the summer with the exception of Fourth of July. Passes coming soon to the Little Elm Recreation Center! For questions, call 972-731-3296. 

This is a parking fee, not a park usage fee so patrons have the options of parking outside of the park and walking in or utilizing E-frogs Little Elm, which runs through the summer. There will be no parking charge Monday through Friday, aside from Friday, June 15. 

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Planning & Zoning

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1. What is a zoning?

Zoning is a manner of establishing the types of land uses permitted on a specific tract of land. Zoning also sets development standards, density, parking and loading requirements, lot coverage, lot area and screening requirements.

2. Why do we need zoning?

Zoning is established to protect the community’s health, safety and welfare. The restrictions placed on the way certain areas are developed ensure safer neighborhoods, more attractive business areas, and well-designed communities.

Regulating the way in which property develops also provides citizens with an idea of the type of future development which can occur in their neighborhood or adjacent to their business.

Zoning is also one of several tools to use in implementing the Town’s long-range plans.

3. What effect does zoning have on my property?

Property must be zoned correctly before a building permit will be issued. In addition, development plans must comply with the development standards for that district.

For example, in the more intense commercial and industrial districts, there are increased setback and screening standards when located next to residentially-zoned properties. These standards decrease adverse impacts on residential property.

4. What zoning do I need?

The specific zoning district you need depends on the type of uses you wish to develop.

The Town of Little Elm has 22 zoning districts each with their own requirements and allowed uses.

In addition, an applicant can ask for a Planned Development, which allows the applicant to “pick and choose” their uses and development requirements. A PD will require additional reviews by Town Staff prior to going to public hearing and the applicant will have to provide the Town with detailed site plans along with their application.

5. What are the zoning fees?

The Town’s processing fees are based on the type of zoning request and the land area being zoned:

Zoning Request(<50 acres): $500

Zoning Request(>50 acres): $500 + $10/acre

Planned Development(PD): $900 + $20/acre

Specific Use Permit(SUP): $300

6. How do I determine the type of use I may develop?

All uses listed in a chart in Section 6 of our Zoning Ordinance. Contact the Planning and Development Department at 214-975-0472 to verify the type of zoning you need for a specific use. Staff will discuss your proposed uses and whether those uses are permitted in your current zoning district. If your intended use is not permitted, staff will advise you as to the zoning district you would need to apply for.

7. How do I change zoning?

Zoning may only be changed through the public hearing process. If you determine that you need to change the zoning on your property you must first discuss your change with a Town Planner.

The Planning staff will discuss the surrounding zoning, land uses, recent area zoning trends, adopted development-related policies and any other factors important to your zoning change. Staff will also provide you with a zoning application form and a submittal schedule.

8. What information is required?

A signed and completed zoning application form and fee should accompany any submission for a zoning change. A survey of the property with metes and bounds along with a certified tax certificate for the property are also required.

The applicant will also be held responsible to make sure that a sign is erected on the property making the public hearing known. Sign specifications, applications and other information is available below.

9. What is a Specific Use Permit?

A Specific Use Permit (SUP) allows for specific uses on a property that is not commonly allowed in that zoning district. These are typically used for daycares, self-storage facilities, used car lots and other uses.

The process for obtaining a SUP is similar to the zoning process. The Planning and Zoning Commission, Town Council and/or Town Staff may require a site plan and/or a feasibility study to be included with the SUP application. Section 6 of the Town’s Zoning Ordinance lists what SUPs are available in each Zoning District.

10. How can I participate in a Public Hearing?

During Public Hearings, the applicant and any individuals in “favor” of or “opposed” to the request have an opportunity to present their views.

In addition to speaking at the Public Hearing, you may also send letters to the Commission and Council or discuss the case with the members. A more formal process is to submit a petition of support of opposition to the case.

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Platting & Subdivisions

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1. Are there different types of plats?

There are several different types of plats and different processes for approving plats. Contact the Planning and Development Department for additional information at 214-975-0472. Preliminary Plat A Preliminary Plat is required if you are dividing your property into more than one lot. This step may be skipped if you are platting a one-lot subdivision. A Preliminary Plat shows the street layout, lots and other information needed to ensure that the subdivision design concept conforms with Town and State regulations. It is intended to be general in nature, showing approximate locations and dimensions. Final Plat A Final Plat is the next step in the development process after approval of a Preliminary Plat by the Planning and Zoning Commission and Town Council. The Final plat is a technical drawing showing the exact dimensions and bearings and is the instrument which becomes the official, permanent record of the division of land filed with Denton County. Final plats must comply with the approved Preliminary Plat. A Final Plat may be created for every lot shown on the approved Preliminary Plat or for a portion of the lots shown on the Preliminary Plat. Replat A replat is required when you are revising existing platted lots or combining platted and unplatted lots for the purpose of creating a new lot configuration. Certain replats require a public hearing and written notice to other property owners within the existing subdivision. Amended Plat An Amended Plat is used if you are relocating an internal lot line, combining lots, correcting an error, or other minor changes. This is approved administratively.

2. What information is required?

A signed and completed plat application form, fee, a signed plat checklist and current certified copies of tax certificates should accompany any plat submission.

If construction is anticipated to follow platting, a signed copy of the Engineering Plan checklist is required along with preliminary Engineering Plans.

Replats may also require mailing labels (Avery 5160) with the property owner’s addresses for every lot within the subdivision.

You will need to submit seven (7) folded copies of your plat (24”X36”) and seven (7) copies of the engineering plans (if construction will follow platting).

Checklists, applications, the submittal schedule and our Subdivision Ordinance can be obtained at the Planning and Development Department or can be accessed below.

3. What are the platting fees?

The Town’s processing fees are based on the type of plat and the land area being platted:

Preliminary Plat
Single Family $300 + $15/lot
Multi-Family and Non-Residential $300 + $25/acre

Final Plat
Single Family $300 + $10/lot
Multi-Family & Non-Residential $300 + $20/acre

Replat
Single Family $200 + $15/lot + postage
Multi-Family & Non-Residential $200 + $25/acre

Amended Plat
Amended Plat $100 + $20/lot

4. What is a plat?

A plat is a survey of property that describes the dimensions and location of lot lines, streets, and easements. A plat also establishes the lot, block, and subdivision name used in real estate transactions. A plat is a legal document complete with a drawing of the property boundaries, a written description of those boundaries, a dedication statement, an owner’s certification statement, a title block, and approval statements.

Plats must be prepared by a licensed land surveyor or engineer.

A plat is not the property survey required by mortgage companies when closing the sale of property.

5. Why is platting required?

The platting process ensures that all lots comply with the Town of Little Elm’s Subdivision Ordinance and protects public health, safety and welfare.

Plats are reviewed for compliance with regulations regarding minimum lot size and lot width; setbacks; street access and size; utility provisions; parks and open space
provisions; and drainage and flood protection.

6. When is a plat required?

There are several situations which require platting of property. Generally, a plat is required:

1. If your property is vacant, has never been platted and you wish to build a new structure on it. A plat is not required if you are adding to or altering an existing home or adding a storage shed, etc.

2. If you are selling a portion of the property you own, you must have a plat showing all the property you own and how you intend to divide it approved by the Town.

3. If you own two adjacent lots and wish to build over the common lot line.

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Police Dept

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1. Where can I renew my Driver's License?

Go to any office of the Texas Department of Public Safety.

2. Why do I have to have an alarm permit for my home or business?

Town ordinance # 730 requires that alarm system users obtain a permit. The permit must be obtained within 30 days of activation of the alarm. The permit must be renewed annually. Each year there is a fee of $25.00. Alarm Permit

3. How do I pick up lost or recovered property from the Police Department?

If you believe that the Little Elm Police Department has property that belongs to you, please call Detective Olson at 214-618-1874 or by e-mail at eolson@littleelm.org Once we have verified that we have your property, we will set up an appointment time for you to retrieve your property. The Property and Evidence Room is purposely controlled by a single detective to ensure consistency and comply with chain of custody requirements. As a result, Detective Olson may be out of the station conducting other business and may not be available to immediately assist you. Please ensure that you have an appointment before coming to the Police Department to retrieve your property.

4. My bike was lost or stolen. What should I do?

In either case, contact the police to report it. If it was stolen an offense report will be written and information about the stolen bike will be entered into the appropriate data bases that law enforcement uses to check for such items. If it was lost, an incident report will be created and information passed on to other shifts. In both cases, reporting it increases the odds that your bike will be located and returned to you.

5. I found a bike. What should I do?

Report a found bike, or any other found property, to police. A found property report will be written and we will research our databases to see if someone reported that bicycle or other item stolen or lost. If they did, it can be returned to the rightful owner.

6. If I find a bike and no one claims it, may I keep it?

First, you should report it to police so that a found property report can be generated and we can check to see if it has been reported lost or stolen. If you simply keep it, and do not report it as found property, you may later be accused of having stolen property. The bike will be taken and stored at the police department for sixty (60) days. After that time, if no one claims it, you may contact us and request that the bike be given to you. We will consider that request and if no other reports are found for that item, it can be given to you.

7. Can drones fly over my house?

On Thursday, May 13, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued new rules for hobbyist drone pilots to keep the national airspace safe and available for both manned and unmanned aircraft. Hobbyist or recreational drone pilots are no longer exempt under Section 336 and are now required to follow these new FAA rules and regulations in controlled airspace.

But, what about flying drones in residential areas? This is a question that we hear frequently. The answer is: currently, no Town ordinance prevents a drone from flying over a residence.

We are regulated by federal law regarding restricting certain movement of drones because of federal airspace laws in part (FRN 49 USC44809), but Section 423 of government code Title 4 states in part:

Sec. 423.003. OFFENSE: ILLEGAL USE OF UNMANNED AIRCRAFT TO CAPTURE IMAGE. (a) A person commits an offense if the person uses an unmanned aircraft to capture an image of an individual or privately owned real property in this state with the intent to conduct surveillance on the individual or property captured in the image.

(b) An offense under this section is a Class C misdemeanor.

(c) It is a defense to prosecution under this section that the person destroyed the image:

(1) as soon as the person had knowledge that the image was captured in violation of this section; and

(2) without disclosing, displaying, or distributing the image to a third party.

(d) In this section, "intent" has the meaning assigned by Section 6.03, Penal Code.

If you have questions or concerns about a drone near your property, call the Little Elm Police Department Nonemergency number at 940-349-1600. Read the new rules for drones from the FAA here.

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Public Works

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1. What items can be recycled?

Residents may place the following recycling items in the blue 95-gallon recycling cart. The most common items are listed below. Follow this link to our trash and recycling Guidelines. 

2. Can I get an additional trash/recycle cart? Is there a charge?

You can order additional carts by contacting the Utility Billing Department at 214-975-0480. There will be an additional charge for trash ($6.59) and recycling ($2.23) carts.

3. My trash cart is missing or stolen. How do I get another one?

Contact the Utility Billing Department at 214-975-0480. There will be a charge of $75 for lost or stolen carts. 

4. Who do I call to report a broken or damaged trash/recycling cart?

Contact the Utility Billing Department at 214-975-0480. 

5. How do I get a trash/recycling cart?

To start services, contact the Utility Billing Department at 214-975-0480. 

6. Who do I call to report a missed collection?

Contact the Utility Billing Department at 214-975-0480. 

7. What time of day will the carts be emptied?

Trash carts will be emptied between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Carts MUST be curbside by 7 a.m. for service.

8. Can I drop off payments for my utility bills after hours?

Yes, there is a drop-box conveniently located at Town Hall at the front doors of the Library, 100 W. Eldorado Pkwy, Little Elm, TX 75068

9. How can I sign up for auto draft payments for my utility bills through my bank account?

Please complete the confidentiality form and return it to the Utility Billing Department. Instructions are provided on the form.

10. How can I sign up for recurring credit card payments online for my utility bills?

Signing up is quick and easy. Be sure to have a current bill on hand to complete registration and CLICK HERE when you're ready.

11. Can I call Utility Billing for more information about my bill or services?

Yes, we are open Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Friday 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. to answer any water or trash billing questions for you at 214-975-0480.

12. How can I sign-up for email updates on trash routes & bulk services?

Click HERE for Email Updates & Reminders 

13. What’s my trash/recycling pick up day? Will the upcoming holiday disrupt services?

View the Town’s 2018 trash/recycling map. You can find the Holiday Calendar here.

14. What items can be recycled?

Residents may place the following recycling items in the blue 95-gallon recycling cart. The most common items are listed below. Follow this link to our trash and recycling Guidelines. 

• Aluminum, tin, and steel cans
• Broken down cardboard
• Dry newspapers
• Empty aerosol cans
• Junk mail
• Magazines and catalogs
• Office paper
• Phone books
• Plastic bottles and containers labeled #1 through #7 (excluding #6)
• Unbroken glass bottles – any color

Please see the directions on the top of recycling cart for more information. 

15. How do I schedule a large item pick up?

You do not have to schedule a pick up for bulk trash. Simply place the items on the curb on MONDAY by 7:00 a.m. on your designated bulk trash week. Additional pickups may be scheduled through CWD by calling 972-392-9300; however, additional rates and fees may apply. View the bulk trash pick up calendar. 

16. My cart has a red tag, what does this mean?

The reason for non-service should be printed on the red tag. The top five causes of red tags are: 

• Cart placed too close to fixed objects. Due to automated arms on the truck, place your bins three feet away from any object.
• Lids not completely closed. Lids must be completely closed in order to be serviced.
• Out of reach. Carts need to be placed at the curb or at the edge of the alley. Lids need to open facing the truck.
• Hazardous waste. Town of Little Elm residents may drop hazardous materials can be disposed of at the Town Courtesy Drop-Site at 1600 Brenda Lane, Little Elm, TX 75068 during our Clean and Green Events in the fall and spring.
• Bulk pick up. The item left out was too large for the cart. Large bulky items need to be placed at the curb on your designated bulk trash pickup. View the bulk trash pick up calendar. 

17. How do I dispose of old paint, pool chemicals, or pesticides?

Town of Little Elm residents may drop hazardous materials can be disposed of at the Town Courtesy Drop-Site at 1600 Brenda Lane, Little Elm, TX 75068 during our Clean and Green Events in the fall and spring. 

18. How do I dispose of tree limbs/fencing?

Cut tree limbs and tie into 4-foot by 2-foot bundles of less than 50 pounds and place at the curb on your designated bulk trash week. View the Bulk and Brush page. 

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Residential Safety Inspections

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1. How do I schedule a residential safety inspection?

Only the property owner or owner’s designee can obtain an application for a Residential Safety inspection at the Building Inspections Office. A designee may be anyone over 18 that is not the tenant.

The property must have no outstanding fees, liens or other amounts due to the Town prior to the Residential Safety Inspection. This includes but is not limited to outstanding utilities bills or fees for code violations.

2. Who must be present at the inspection?

The inspectors will not inspect a building unless the owner or a representative of the owner is present. An additional inspection fee will be charged for each inspection trip after the initial two.

3. Why are temporary utilities provided?

In order to complete the inspection, the inspector requires the water and electricity to be functioning in the home. The applicant or Building Inspections department can authorize temporary electric utility service for a period of 10 days while repairs are underway. Water service can also be authorized for a period not to exceed ten (10) days, assuming that the owner properly sets up a water account with a deposit.

4. What if the residence fails the inspection?

If a residence fails the inspection, the building inspector will give notice of noncompliance to the owner, and permanent water and utilities will not be authorized. If corrections are not made within 10 days, temporary utilities will be disconnected. 

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Town Council

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1. Q. How many members are on Council?

A. The Town Council consists of seven (7) Members, six (6) Council Members and the Mayor. The Mayor and Council Members for Place 1 and Place 6 may be residents of any portion of the Town. Council Members for Place 2, 3, 4 and 5 must reside in, and be elected from the district for which the specific place applies. The term of office is for a period of three (3) years or any portion thereof.

2. Q. When does the Town Council meet?

A. Regular meetings are the first and third Tuesday of the month, at Town Hall, special meetings and workshops can be called anytime.

3. Q. How many Terms may a Council Member serve?

A. No person shall serve as Mayor for more than three (3) successive terms, and no person shall serve on Council for more the three (3) successive terms.

4. Q. What are the qualifications to serve as Mayor and Council?

A. Each candidate for Town Council or office of Mayor must be a qualified voter of the Town, must be twenty-one (21) years of age, and have resided in the Town not less than twelve (12) months immediately preceding election day. The candidate must also meet the requirements of the Texas Election Code, and shall not after, notice of any delinquency, be in arrears in the payment of any taxes or other liabilities due the Town.

5. Q. What are the Mayors Duties?

A. the person elected Mayor shall be the presiding officer of all meetings of the Town Council. He/She shall be the official head of the Town government and be able to vote on all matters coming before Council.

6. Q. What are Mayor Pro-Tem Duties?

A. The Town Council shall elect one of it’s members as Mayor Pro Tem, who shall perform duties of Mayor in the case of the absence or inability of the Mayor to perform the duties of his/her office, and who shall, during that time, be vested with all the powers belonging to the Mayor.

7. Q. What is a Quorum?

A. A quorum consists of four (4) Council Members which is necessary to conduct business. The Council shall determine its own rules of procedure; may punish its members for misconduct and may compel the attendance of absent members.

8. Q. Do Council Members get paid for their services?

A. Yes, the Mayor and all six (6) Council Members receive $25.00 per meeting.

9. Q. How can I participate at a Town Council meeting?

A. You may participate at a Town Council meeting by submitting a written request on what your topic will be. The request must be approved by either two (2) Council Members, Town Manager or Mayor. After the approval has been made, your topic will be put on the Agenda for a future Council Meeting.

10. Q. How do I speak at a Town Council meeting?

A. You will need to fill out a Presentation and Announcement form, and deliver the completed form to the Town Secretary prior to the start of the meeting. The Mayor will call up to the podium those individuals from the audience who have signed up to speak. All speakers are asked to direct their comments to the Town Council, not to the audience. All speakers are to begin by stating their full name and home address for the record. All speakers are given 3 minutes to speak and may address the Council only once. Speakers will not be aloud to cede time to another speaker. Homeowners Association/large groups are encouraged to designate a spokesperson. Such groups may designate one spokesperson to speak on it’s behalf with a maximum time of ten (10) minutes. The presentations and announcements will then close.
More – State Law prohibits Council from responding to a speaker if the topic is not on the agenda.

11. Q. What are the boundaries and limits of the Town of Little Elm?

A. The boundaries and limits of the Town of Little Elm is established by the Town Council accordance with state law. The Town Secretary keeps a correct and complete description and official map on file, with recent annexations and disannexations.
Citizens can download a map off the Town website.

12. Q. What are the Procedures for enacting regulations and laws of the Town?

A. The Town Council official actions are by written ordinances, resolutions, or oral motions. Each proposed ordinance shall not be amended or repealed except by adoption of another ordinance. All ordinances and resolutions passed by the Town Council shall become effective immediately after passage except where publication of a caption is required or where the ordinance, State law, or other provisions of this chapter provide otherwise, in which case the effective date shall be as prescribed in the ordinance.

13. Q. How can I find out more information on what is being discussed at Town Council meeting?

A. You may go on line to Agendas and Minutes at www.littleelm.org under Departments, Town Secretary, click on Agendas and Minutes; or stop by Town Hall and pick one up.

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Water & Waste Water

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1. Can I turn my water meter on or off?

No. A city employee will do this for you at no cost. The water meter is the property of the City and damages to the meter could be charged to you. Call the Public Works Department at 972-377-5556 or after hours, call emergency number 214-537-5645 and an on-call personnel will be notified and dispatched.

2. Do I have any other responsibilities as a City water user?

Yes, you are required to keep your water meter clear and accessible for reading and maintenance purposes. This includes meters located in utility easements.

3. Do I need to notify the City when I move?

Yes, It is necessary that you contact a Customer Representative to close your account in advance to you moving. This may be done either in person, by phone or by sending us a letter telling us the date you want your account closed and where to send the final bill. You will be responsible for payment of services through the date of your closing.

4. How do I check for a water leak?

Turn off all water in and outside of your house. Do not turn off the master valve. Record the reading on your meter. Do not use any water in your home for one hour. Recheck the meter. The reading should be identical to the reading taken earlier. If it is higher, you have a leak. It is your responsibility to have it repaired.

5. Is there fluoride in my water?

Yes.

6. Who do I contact about problems with my sewer service?

In case of a sewage backup, notify Public Works by calling 972-292-3657. They will check the Town main to determine if the problem is the Town's responsibility or the homeowner’s.

7. What are Customer Service's office hours?

Customer Service is open from 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Monday-Thursday, and 7:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. on Friday.

8. What are the cities responsibilities for water line repairs?

The city is responsible for the main lines and meter up to the point of the customer’s service line connection to the meter.

9. What are the towns responsibilities for sewer line problems?

The city is responsible for sewer main lines and service lateral line repairs up to the customer’s property line.

10. What happens if my water is turned off for non-payment?

Service will be restored upon payment of the entire balance due, including a $40 disconnect / reconnect fee.

11. What if I did not receive my water bill in the mail?

Your account is billed on a regular basis every month. If you do not receive your bill, by the 10th of each month call our office immediately. Failure to receive the bill does not exempt the consumer from responsibility to make payment.

12. What if I feel my water bill is to high due to a faulty meter?

Water meters can malfunction, we found that their tendency is to slow down rather than speed up. With advance notice, a test can be scheduled. If the meter tests correctly, you will be charged a $50 testing fee for a residential meter. Commercial accounts are done on contract at cost. If the meter tests incorrectly, you will not be charged the testing fee.

13. What if I feel my water bill is to high?

You can easily check for an error in the meter reading used to calculate your bill. Simply read your water meter to see if the reading is higher or lower than the present reading on your bill. If it is lower, call Customer Service and we will issue a service order to have a meter reader check the read. If the reading is higher, you should check for a leak in your house plumbing or service line.

14. What if I know I won't be able to pay my water bill on time?

Call a Customer Service Representative at (214) 975-0480 to discuss payment arrangements. In most cases, arrangements can be worked out.

15. What methods of payment do you accept?

We accepts payments by cash, check money order and most credit cards.

16. What number do I call?

Call (214) 975-0480 during regular office hours for Customer Service to report water leaks, sewer back-ups or other water emergencies. Call (214) 975-0400 for the on call personnel to be notified. To obtain a collection schedule for garbage or recycling, call (214) 975-0480.

17. When is my water bill due?

Payment is due on the 20th of each month unless it falls on a weekend, the payment will be due the following business day by 5 p.m.
A 10 percent penalty is applied on the following business day after the due date and a reminder is mailed/emailed with a cutoff date.