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1. When am I required to upgrade my home's smoke alarm system?

Whenever you make interior alterations or additions that require a building permit.

2. Where do I need to install smoke detectors in my home?

1. In each sleeping room


2. Outside each sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms


3. On each additional story of the dwelling, including basements

3. What is a habitable basement?

A basement used for living, sleeping, eating or cooking.

4. Why am I required to have an emergency escape and rescue opening in my habitable basement?

Basements with only one unprotected interior stairway as an exit are dangerous in a fire. If the staircase becomes blocked due to fire, smoke or heat, someone could become trapped in the basement.

All other habitable spaces of homes have at least two ways out. An emergency escape and rescue opening eliminates this issue.

5. What is the average cost to install an emergency escape and rescue opening in a basement wall?

The cost may vary from $3,500 to $6,500.

6. How long will it take to install an emergency escape and rescue opening in a basement wall?

It typically takes 2-3 days.

7. My home is more than 25 years old and I want to put a bedroom, home theater, play room or office in my basement. Will I have to cut a hole in my foundation wall?

Yes, unless you have an existing opening in the basement wall that is compliant with the 2003 IRC requirements.

8. I have an existing home with a basement bedroom that has a code-compliant emergency escape and rescue opening. Will I need to cut another hole in my foundation for a home office in the basement?

No. You may add additional habitable spaces to your basement without providing another emergency escape and rescue opening.

9. Does the required emergency escape and rescue opening need to be installed within the habitable space?

No. The emergency escape and rescue opening should be placed in an easily accessible area.

10. Who do I contact to schedule an electrical, plumbing or commercial mechanical inspection?

St. Louis County at (314) 615-5000.

11. What are the most common reasons footing and pier inspections fail?

• There is mud and/or water in the footing or pier excavation.


• The steel reinforcement is not the grade, type or size specified in the approved plans.

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12. What are the most common reasons why foundation inspections fail?

• Form oil has dripped onto the steel reinforcement or top of the footing.


• There is mud on top of the footing

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13. What are the most common reasons why framing inspections fail?

• The relevant St. Louis County electrical, plumbing or mechanical rough-in inspections have not been made or approved.


• The penetrations through the top and bottom of plates of walls have not been properly fire stopped or fire blocked.

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14. What are the most common reasons why drywall inspections fail?

• The drywall tape and joint compound have been applied prior to approval of the drywall inspection.


• The drywall and fasteners have been installed per the UL Design Number specified on the plans.

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15. What are the most common reasons why ceiling cover inspections fail?

• The relevant St. Louis County electrical and mechanical inspections have not been made and approved.


• Fire separation assemblies have not been installed per the UL Design Number on approved plans.

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16. What are the most common reasons why final inspections fail?

• The electrical, mechanical, plumbing and fire district final inspections have not been approved and signed-off on the record of inspections card.


• The Life Safety Systems have not been pre-tested or installed according to the approved plans.

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1. How do I find out the zoning of my property?

You can determine what zoning district you are in by finding your property on the Zoning Map.

2. When does the P&Z Commission meet?

The first and third Mondays of the month, except in January and February meetings are held on the first and second Tuesdays.

3. How do I know if my proposed use is permitted at a particular location?

First, determine what zoning property the district is in by finding your property on the Zoning Map. Then look up the district Regulations in the Zoning Code.

4. Can I run my business out of my house?

Yes, subject to specific limitations that can be found on home occupations
page.

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1. Does the city provide a list of bow hunters for residents?

The City maintains and makes available to the public a list of bow hunters that have expressed interest in hunting on private property in Creve Coeur. However, the City does not endorse nor vet any group or individual. The City recommends that property owners conduct their own process for choosing a hunter from the list or from other sources.

The current list is posted on the City’s website.

To add your name or group to the list, please call (314) 274-2109.

2. How do I get permission to hunt?

Complete and return all required forms to the Creve Coeur Police Department.

Required Forms for Application Process

3. Is there a cost involved?

The City does not charge a fee; however, a hunting license and deer tags must be purchased through the state.

4. Is the bow hunter required to carry identification from the City that shows he has valid permission to hunt?

Yes, the hunter must obtain a City ID card from the Police Department which must be presented to any police officer, city official, or resident. Failure to do so may result in a loss of hunting privileges in Creve Coeur.

5. What are the dates for bow hunting season?

September 15, 2020–November 13, 2020, and November 25, 2020–January 15, 2021

Missouri Department of Conservation Website

6. What do I do if someone is bow hunting on my property without my permission?

Call the Police Dispatch at (314) 737-4600.

7. Will the city provide a list of interested property owners to bow hunters?

The City’s policy is not to provide this information to bow hunters.

8. What if, as a contiguous property owner, I do not want bow hunting to take place on the property next door?

The Ordinance allows bow hunting to take place if there is an agreement between a qualified property owner and a bow hunter. The Ordinance only requires that the contiguous neighbor be notified of the hunt.

9. Do I need to notify the city each time there is a hunt on my property?

No, the property owner is not required to notify anyone.

10. The ordinance says the hunt cannot take place closer than 150 yards from a church, school or playground. Are there any exceptions?

Yes, if the owner of such property has provided express written consent to such discharges of closer proximity at specified dates and time periods.

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1. Where can a vendor find information on the ordinance pertaining to food trucks?

Title VI, Chapter 610 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Creve Coeur includes all pertinent information and can be found online in the city's Charters and Ordinances or the Municipal Code.

2. Will mobile food truck vendors be required to register or have a permit with the City of Creve Coeur before they can operate?

Yes. All mobile food truck vendors must first obtain a St Louis County Department of Health permit and may then apply for a City of Creve Coeur permit to operate in Creve Coeur. The Creve Coeur permit shall be valid for twelve months from the date of issuance. Both of these permits must be displayed and visible to the public during operation.

3. Will there be any type of background check done on the owners of these various food trucks who apply for a permit?

Yes. The Creve Coeur Chief of Police is tasked with the supervision of all background investigations pertaining to the accuracy and truthfulness of the applicants. The police department will also verify that all vehicles are properly licensed with valid insurance.

4. Once granted the proper permits, what hours will the food trucks be allowed to operate?

Mobile food vendors in good standing shall be allowed to operate between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. (or by sunset—whichever is earliest) seven days a week.

5. Will there be specific locations they will set up on a regular basis, or will they have the capability of moving to different locations within our city?

Provided they get permission from the business owners, mobile food vendors shall be allowed to set up on any agreed upon privately owned business parking lot. They will also be allowed on city-owned lots on mutually agreed upon dates. However, it shall be unlawful for any mobile food vendor to conduct sales on any residential street or private street, unless they are hired by the property or street owner as a caterer for a private event.

6. Are food truck vendors allowed to set up tables and chairs around their trucks for customers? Do they provide any music or external speakers around their trucks?

Tables, chairs and music are allowed provided they are placed in a safe manner on parking lots. If you choose to have music, you must comply with all city noise and peace disturbance laws.

7. Where can I get more information on the mobile food vending permitting process?

Please call (314) 872-2510 for any questions regarding food truck permitting.

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1. How do I email the Mayor and City Council?

Mayor and City Council can be emailed collectively at the following email address: mayor-council@crevecoeurmo.gov

Council Member Contact Information

2. What is the sales tax rate in Creve Coeur?

The current sales tax rate for the majority of businesses in Creve Coeur is 8.4875%. For those businesses located within the Olive Boulevard TDD, the sales tax rate is 0.5000%. For those businesses within the Graeser TDD, the sales tax rate is 1.0000%.

3. What is the phone number for Republic Services (formerly Allied Waste)?

Republic Services can be contacted at (636) 947-5959.

4. Where do I pay tickets?

Tickets are paid at the finance department window in the main lobby, on the upper level of the government center. Tickets that are payable without a court proceeding may also be paid online at www.trafficpayment.com or by phone by calling 1-800-444-1197.

5. What is the address of the Creve Coeur Government Center?

The address for the Government Center is:
300 N. New Ballas Rd.
Creve Coeur, MO 63141

6. When am I required to upgrade my home's smoke alarm system?

Whenever you make interior alterations or additions that require a building permit.

7. How do I submit a traffic complaint?

To submit a traffic concern, complete the traffic problem notification form by clicking following link: Traffic Problem Notification Form

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1. What is the situation?

(From MoDOT): The bridge over Hibler Creek, just east of Mason Road on Ladue Road, is old and needs to be replaced.

2. When will the project begin?

The project will begin on Monday, May 11.

3. When is the project scheduled to end?

The project is scheduled to be completed by August 11.

4. Where exactly will the road be closed?

The road will be closed on Route AB at the bridge over Hibler Creek. This bridge is located east of Laduemont Drive and west of Chasselle Lane.

5. What area of Route AB (Ladue Road) is affected by the project?

This project affects drivers who regularly use Route AB between Interstate 270 and Mason Road.

6. Was shutting down one lane at a time considered?

(From MoDOT): MoDOT did evaluate replacing the bridge half at a time.  Since Ladue Road is only two lanes in this location, that would require a 24-hour signal to direct one lane of traffic at a time through the work zone, and would significantly back up traffic on Ladue Road. In addition, the project would take significantly longer to complete, which would impact traffic into the fall, including school traffic.

7. What are the best alternative roadways to using Route AB?

Route 340 (Olive Blvd), Interstate 270, and Route 141 can be used to detour around the closing.

8. Can I still walk across the sidewalk or ride my bicycle through the construction site?

No, MoDOT has plans for the bridge, barrier, and sidewalk as part of this project. Entering a construction site is dangerous and should be avoided.

9. Where can I find detour routes?

Detour routes can be found at this link, provided by MODOT.

10. Are there “cut thru” limitations on residential streets?

Chasselle Lane and Laduemont Drive will continue to have cut thru restrictions from 7:00 a.m.-9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

11. How are the Fire and Police Departments planning for the closure?

The Creve Coeur Fire Protection District has plans in place to work around the closure. As a backup, they also have a great relationship with both the Monarch Fire Protection District and West County EMS & Fire through mutual aid agreements. The Creve Coeur Police Department will continue to patrol the area in addition to having an increased presence to aid in “cut thru” and speed enforcement. 

12. Who is responsible for the planning and project operations?

MoDOT is responsible for the planning and project management.

13. Who do I contact at MoDOT if I have additional questions for MoDOT?

Contact MoDOT Customer Service at 314-275-1500.

14. Who do I contact at the city of Creve Coeur if I have questions for the city?

If you have questions, you can contact Police Officer James Grandstaff at 314-442-2075.

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1. How do I get the nominating petition to run for office?

The petition is available in the City Clerk's office at the Government Center (300 N New Ballas Road).

2. How can I address the Mayor and Council at Council Meetings?

Residents wishing to speak at Council meetings should fill out a speaker card and give it to the City Clerk. Comments should be directed to the Mayor and Council and not third party attendees. Mayor and Council will not answer questions and/or comments during Comments from the General Public but will take note of the question for a later response.

3. When are the Council Meetings?

Council meets the second and fourth Monday of each month beginning at 7:00 pm. Council usually has a work session prior to the meetings beginning at 6:00 pm and it is held in the Council Chambers of the Government Center (300 N. New Ballas Road).

Click here to see City Council Agendas

4. What is a public hearing?

Public Hearings are held on matters when required by law. Persons who wish to speak at public hearings will be heard after the applicant has made their presentation and the Council has been given an opportunity to question the applicant. Speakers at a public hearing are asked to complete a speaker card located at the back of the Council Chambers, and present to the City Clerk. When called upon, the speaker must swear of and affirm the truth of their testimony to the reporter that transcribes the hearing.

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1. What is a parks and stormwater sales tax?

A parks and stormwater sales tax is a dedicated sales tax applied to retail sales made within city limits. All revenue is dedicated to providing funding for local parks and stormwater control in Creve Coeur.

2. How much is the parks and stormwater sales tax?

The proposed parks and stormwater sales tax rate is ½ of 1%—in other words, ½ of one penny for every dollar spent within the city limits. For example, the additional sales tax on a $50 purchase would be $0.25. It is estimated the sales tax will generate $2 million per year.

3. What will the revenue be used for?

If approved by voters, revenue collected from the parks and stormwater sales tax will be used to improve and maintain local parks and stormwater infrastructure. The City’s Parks Master Plan and Stormwater Master Plan provide recommendations for capital improvements and amenities over the next ten years.

4. Who pays the parks sales tax?

Anyone shopping within Creve Coeur will pay the parks and stormwater half-cent sales tax, including both residents and non-residents.

5. How would the additional revenues relate to costs?

The annual cost to provide services to our residents continues to increase while our revenue sources remain flat. The proposed parks and stormwater sales tax would provide a dedicated revenue source to maintain and improve city parks and stormwater infrastructure.

6. What improvements to city parks are recommended in the Parks Master Plan?

Adopted in 2019, the Parks Master Plan is a community-driven guide that has established priorities for improvements in city parks. Recommendations for new amenities and renovations include: 

• Resurfacing walking paths
• Converting restrooms to year-round use
• Replacing and expanding playground equipment
• Adding new nature trails and athletic courts
• Replacing tennis courts and adding pickleball courts
• Adding water play features

A complete list of recommendations for local park improvements is outlined in the Parks Master Plan. The parks and stormwater sales tax would provide funding to implement this plan.

7. What improvements to stormwater infrastructure are recommended in the Stormwater Master Plan?

The Stormwater Master Plan, adopted in 2012, identifies problem areas within Creve Coeur where excess runoff causes flooding, erosion and potential damage to properties. Approximately $13 million in future stormwater-related projects have been identified, including projects to mitigate erosion and flooding along the numerous creeks and drainageways in Creve Coeur. New stormwater inlets and similar infrastructure are needed in streets throughout the city and would be incorporated into pavement maintenance and replacement projects. With additional revenue, the City could fundamentally change its approach to stormwater management, shifting from reacting to emergencies to planning needed improvements and maintenance.

8. Can the parks and stormwater sales tax be used to fund projects or expenses not related to parks and stormwater control?

No. By law, the parks and stormwater sales tax may only be used to fund local parks and stormwater control. A special fund would be created in which all sales tax proceeds would be recorded.

9. Which cities in the St. Louis region currently have a parks & stormwater sales tax?

Creve Coeur is one of a small number of cities in St. Louis County that has not implemented the parks and stormwater sales tax. All communities adjacent to Creve Coeur (with the exception of Westwood Village, which has no city parks) have adopted the parks and stormwater sales tax. This map illustrates which cities have implemented a parks and stormwater sales tax in St. Louis County.

10. If adopted, how will the total Creve Coeur sales tax rate compare to other cities around us?

If voters approve the parks and stormwater sales tax, the overall Creve Coeur sales tax rate will be at or below those of our neighboring communities.

11. What do the citizen committees think about the proposed parks and stormwater sales tax?

The City’s Finance Committee, Parks and Historic Preservation Committee, and Stormwater Committee have all reviewed the plan and made a positive recommendation to the City Council.

12. What happens if the parks & stormwater sales tax does not pass?

Maintaining the city’s existing park infrastructure has become increasingly difficult, as most existing capital improvement dollars are needed for street repair and replacement, or emergency storm drainage repairs. The City will continue to utilize available grant funds to replace or repair park amenities and infrastructure, but not on the schedule envisioned in the park master plan. Little funding would be available for new park amenities absent a new revenue source. Improvements to stormwater infrastructure would be incremental as existing funding may allow.

13. When and where can I vote on the parks and stormwater sales tax?

The General Election is on Tuesday, November 3, 2020. Polls will be open from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Registered voters may apply for absentee or mail-in voting through the St. Louis County Board of Elections. The deadline to apply for absentee or mail-in voting for the 2020 General Election is October 21, 2020. For more information, contact the St. Louis County Board of Elections at (314) 615-1800 or visit stlouisco.com/Your-Government/ElectionBoard.

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1. How do I submit a traffic concern?

To submit a traffic concern, complete the traffic problem notification form by clicking the following link: Traffic Problem Notification Form

2. How do I commend or complain about the actions of a Creve Coeur Police department employee?

The Creve Coeur Police Department is committed to providing an exceptional level of quality and professional police services to the public. We want to hear about your experience with the men and women of our agency. The below link provides directions for complimenting or filing a complaint regarding an officers actions.

Citizen’s Guide to Making Inquiries, Commendations

3. How do I obtain a copy of an accident report?

Copies of Creve Coeur Police reports may be available to interested parties 5 to 7 business days after the date of the incident as allowed by law. Request may be made in person at the records counter between 7:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Accident reports can be purchased online. You will need the agency name, date of the accident, and the report number. For any additional information or questions you may have contact the Police Department Records Room at (314) 872-2528 or (314) 442-2063.

Purchase an accident report.

4. How do I enroll to receive emergency notifications from the CCPD?

The Creve Coeur Police Department utilizes the CodeRED emergency notification system to quickly notify residents of incidents. Enroll in CodeRed.

5. How do I get fingerprinted?

Fingerprinting is done by appointment Monday-Friday during regular business hours. You can call (314) 872-2528 or (314) 442-2063 to schedule an appointment and obtain additional information. There is a $5.00 fee, payable by cash or check only, per fingerprint card. Additionally, a photo ID is required. If you choose to have your fingerprints taken through the use of LiveScan (electronically), you will not need to supply a fingerprint card.

6. How do I apply to become a Creve Coeur Police Officer?

Apply to become a Creve Coeur Police Officer on our website. Apply here.

7. Where can I dispose of expired or unused medication?

The Creve Coeur Police Department does not currently have a drug disposal receptacle but there are other locations within St. Louis County that do. Click the link below to see a list of these locations. Missouri Prescription Pill and Drug Disposal Sites

8. How do I get a criminal record check?

The general public can obtain a criminal record check of conviction information from the Bureau of Central Police Records in Clayton. You are required to bring your Social Security Card, plus one of the following types of identification: Missouri Driver’s License, State ID, Military ID, or birth certificate. For detailed information on obtaining a record check, contact the St. Louis County Police Department at (314) 615-5317 / TDD (314) 889-2345.

9. I've heard the CCPD will watch my house while on vacation. How do I enroll?

The CCPD offers a complimentary home vacation check to residents in Creve Coeur. If you will be traveling longer then 30 days, your house will be checked once a week. All vacations less then 30 days will have the house checked every other day.

To enroll, click here.

10. Where can I find information on recent police activity in Creve Coeur?

The Creve Coeur Police Department currently utilizes CrimeReports to provided citizens with recent police activity in the area. Whether your are a resident of Creve Coeur or you are considering moving to the local area, CrimeReports.com is a great resource to see what sort of criminal activity is taking place. 

11. I heard the CCPD offers an Exchange Location for online transactions. How does it work?

In an effort to reduce possible victimization associated with in-person transaction associated with online transaction, the Creve Coeur Police Department encourages residents to complete the finalized transaction on our parking lot or in our lobby. These transactions can be completed between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., seven days a week. Learn more about our exchange location.

12. How do I sign-up for one of the many presentations offered by the Creve Coeur Police Department?

The Crime Prevention office is responsible for coordinating most of the presentations and classes offered to residents. View our Calendar of Events or contact the Crime Prevention officer at (314) 442-2075 for more information.

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1. There is a dead animal in the street or yard. Will the city remove the animal?

The Public Works Department will remove a dead animal from the street only, not from residential property. Residents will have to call a private service or bag the animal and place in the trash for collection on their regular service day by Republic Services. The ONLY exception to the rule is a dead deer which Public Works will remove. 

The Public Works Department can be reached by calling (314) 872-2533, Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Please note: If the dead animal is on a state road (i.e., I-270, Olive Boulevard, Lindbergh Boulevard, Ladue Road west of I-270) the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) will pick up the dead animal. MoDOT can be reached by calling (314) 275-1500.

2. What should I do if I see an animal running loose in my neighborhood?

Please contact St. Louis Animal Control at (314) 615-0650 between 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. After hours or on weekends, please call the St. Louis County Dispatch at (636) 529-8210. For wildlife, please call the Missouri Conservation Department, Powder Valley, at (314) 301-1500, as most other animals are protected by State or Federal law.

3. I have geese, coyotes, and/or deer on my property. What can I do?

Geese, coyotes, and deer are protected through State and Federal law. Please call the Missouri Conservation Department, Powder Valley, at (314) 301-1500 for instructions on what can be done.

4. I have squirrels (other rodents) in my house (attic). Will the city remove them for me?

No, please contact a pest control company for help.

5. I have raccoons and/or opossums in my yard getting into my trash. Will the city remove them for me?

Please contact St. Louis County Animal Control at (314) 615-0650 during normal business hours between 8:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m., and (636) 529-8210 during off hours and weekends.

6. I have a hornet, bee and/or wasp nest on my property. Will the city remove it for me?

No, please contact a pest control company for help. Please do not attempt to remove a hornet's (or bee or wasp) nest as it is very dangerous and must be handled by a qualified specialist.

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1. What do I need to prove residency for ID card?

Two forms that show current Creve Coeur address such as a drivers license, unpaid utility bill, bank statement, voter registration card, etc.

2. Is the Dielmann Recreation Complex open year round?

Both the Ice Arena and Golf Course are open year round.

3. How do I rent a room?

Call (314) 432-3960 to find out availability.

Learn more about room rentals.

4. How do I apply for a job?

Go to www.crevecoeurmo.gov/jobs.

5. Do I need to register my pet?

No, the City of Creve Coeur does not require pet registration. However if you would like to use our Dog Park, you will need to register your dog as a member of the Dog Park. You can find out how at www.crevecoeurmo.gov/dogpark.

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1. Whom do I call to report a flooded streets or illegal dumped materials in the street or public right-of-way?

Call 9-1-1.

2. What is required by the City to discharge drain tubes and pipes?

Discharge pipes and drain outlets are required to be a minimum of 10’ from property lines and the street, if the drainage is causing issues for adjacent property, then code officials may require the minimum distance be increased.

3. Can the City help me with stormwater?

City staff may be able to provide advice for how to resolve basic storm water problems, however it is always recommended that you contact a professional civil engineer.

4. Will the City pay to correct stormwater problems on my property?

No. The City does not have funds available or currently collect a tax for stormwater related problems. If the problem is on publicly owned City property, then the problem can be resolved using City funds, if the problem is on private property, then there is nothing the city can do.

5. Who is responsible for drainage and erosion issues on my property?

Private drainage and erosion issues, as well as ground water issues, are the responsibility of the property owner. Drainage directed from gutters, downspouts or other private systems to neighboring properties is a civil matter between the property owners. Driveways, and their associated culverts or bridges, that cross public drainage systems (e.g., that cross over ditches or streams) are also property owner responsibilities. Information or assistance maybe available from Public Works about the cause of the problem and possible solutions; however, the city cannot recommend a particular contractor or undertake any work outside a city easement. Property owners are responsible for routine grounds maintenance such as grass mowing and trash / debris removal – owners should ensure that systems and structures are kept free of yard waste (grass clippings, tree trimmings, and leaves) or other obstructions that may block the flow of water, including: trees, shrubs and other growth within easements: driveways and their associated culverts or bridges; and fences, which are allowed in easements as long as they do not block the flow of stormwater.

6. What is stormwater pollution?

Stormwater pollution is when water from rainstorms, garden houses and sprinklers causes runoff that collects harmful debris and flows through local creeks, rivers and lakes - eventually draining, untreated into the ocean.

7. What is watershed?

A watershed is an area of land that collects water whenever it rains or snows. Through gravity, water is channeled into soils, groundwater, creeks and lakes and drains into larger bodies of water such as rivers. Eventually, the flows to tan ocean. Watershed and whatever we do to the land will affect water quality downstream.

8. Is stormwater treated before it flows to the rivers and ocean?

No. Storm water flows do not receive any treatment because of the sheer volume of runoff on even the driest day.

9. What is the difference between a storm drain and a sewer drain?

In most cases the sanitary sewer system and the municipal storm drain system are two completely separate water drainage systems.

10. What are the effects of storm water pollution?

Along the coast, storm water pollution poses a health risk to beach goers swimming or fishing particularly within 400 yards of flowing storm drain outlets. Countless marine animals and plants living can become sick or die from contact with pollutants from runoff.

11. How can I keep my neighborhood and local waterways pollution free?

Getting involved is a great way to keep your neighborhood and local waterways clean. Here are a few simple ways to help keep pollutants out of local water bodies:

• Participate in or organize a local neighborhood clean-up.
• Educate your friends and family about the impact pollutants have on water quality.
• Reduce, reuse and recycle.
• Always use canvas bags when shopping.
• Consider installing a rain barrel on your property to harvest the rain. It’s a great way to save money and conserve one of our most precious natural resources!

12. What is a detention or retention basin?

A common conventional method for managing storm water is a storm water basin. Basins are meant to collect storm water and slowly release it at a controlled rate so that downstream areas are not flooded or eroded. While effective for flood control, these practices have significant limitations for water quality treatment and for preventing impacts to stream systems. The main difference between a detention and a retention basin is whether or not it has a permanent pool of water – like a traditional “pond”. The water level is established by the low flow orifice. Most of the time the orifice is part of a metal or concrete structure called a riser. A detention, or dry, basin has an orifice level with the bottom of the basin so that all of the water eventually drains out and it remains dry between storms – hence, a dry basin. Retention basins have a riser with an orifice at a higher point so that it retains a permanent pool of water. The basins themselves are important for storing and slowing (attenuating) the runoff from impervious surfaces such as rooftops or pavement. The amount of treatment, or cleaning, of the water is limited. Dry detention basins control flood flows only. A retention basin can also provide water quality benefits by reducing sediments and attached pollutants. One of the most important elements of maintaining basins is making sure the low flow orifice is not blocked or clogged. Other maintenance activities include repairing erosion, removing sediment, and managing the vegetation. Repairing erosion early can save significant costs, both in the erosion and the resulting sedimentation that can end up needing to be removed from the basin. Vegetation should be kept to heights that allow inspection for animal burrows, sinkholes, wet areas, etc. along the fill embankments. Common mistakes are not mowing important areas because they are too steep or ignoring mowing completely. These basins are one of the most popular means of providing storm water management throughout most of the United States.

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1. What do I do with extra trash that won't fit in the cart?

It is understandable that on certain occasions (i.e., holidays, parties, etc.) there will be more trash than usual. During those events, you may place your extra trash in trash bags or in a personal container. However, if this happens on a regular basis, Republic Services will contact the resident to correct the issue by suggesting a larger trash cart.

2. What sizes are the carts?

Carts come in three sizes: 48-gallon (28"d x 29"w x 38"h), 65-gallon (29"d x 25"w x 42"h), and 95-gallon (34"d x 29"w x 42"h). The 48-gallon cart is recommended for households with one to two residents, the 65-gallon cart for households with three to four residents, and the 95-gallon cart for households with five or more residents.

3. Where will I store the cart(s)?

You may leave the cart(s) outside, but you are required to store it behind the front building line of your home. Your subdivision may have additional guidelines.