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Administration

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1. When and where does the City Council meet?

The City Council meets at 6:30 pm on the first and third Tuesdays of each month at City Hall located on 200 S. Rusk. Agendas can be found using the following link: City Council Agendas

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Airport

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1. Do you have Landing or Ramp Fees?

No, We do not charge any of these fees.

2. Do you have Call - Out Fees?

No, we do not charge for call - outs.

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Animal Control

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1. Is there a leash law?

Yes, dogs and cats. Refer to Chapter 3 in the City Code of Ordinances using the following link: City Code of Ordinances

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Community Services

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1. How much does it cost to rezone a property?

To rezone a property a site plan must be presented and a Zoning District Change Request application will need to be completed, the fee is $500.00.

2. When does the Planning & Zoning Commission meet?

The second Tuesday of every month, when items are on the agenda. Meetings are at 4:00p.m. in the City Council Chambers located at 200 South Rusk Street.

3. The electric company will not turn on my power to my new business until I get an inspection, what do I do?

A Certificate of Occupancy needs to be completed and turned in to the Community Services Department office, located at 104 W Hird St. There is a charge of $85.00 for the Certificate of Occpuancy inspection. An inspector will visit the property for an inspection. If inspection passes, the Community Services Department will then contact Oncor that the inspection is complete.

4. What is my property zoned?

The staff might be able to tell you on the phone if you can give us your main and cross streets. We also have a zoning map in the office or you can view the zoning map on website.

5. How do I report a street light that is out or broken?

You may contact our office at 940-668-4540 and we will go on line to Oncor's website and report the light. We must have a street address and a close cross street for reference, or you may go to https://www.oncorstreetlight.com/ and report the light(s).

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Employment Opportunities

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1. How do I find out what jobs are available within the City?

All current employment opportunities can be found on our Employment Opportunities page. The City of Gainesville only accepts applications for posted positions. Employment Opportunities

2. How do I get an application for the City of Gainesville?

City of Gainesville Employment Application Packets are available from the Human Resources Department located at City Hall, 200 South Rusk, Gainesville, TX 76240, or can be downloaded and printed using the following link. City of Gainesville Application Packet

3. How do I submit an application?

City of Gainesville applications may be submitted via hand delivery or mail to 200 South Rusk, Gainesville, TX 76240 or faxed to (940) 668-4588.

4. How do I know what is going on with my application after the position closes?

Departments are forwarded applications usually the day after the position closes. Once the department receives the applications, applicants will be contacted to schedule interviews as time permits for the department.

5. How do I use one application to apply for multiple positions?

Simply put the title of all the positions you are interested in on the cover page of the application.

6. How do I keep an application on file with the City for future job postings?

The City only accepts applications for positions that are currently open. The only exceptions are Police Officers, Firefighters, and Communications Operators. For those positions, applications are placed on file and when a position opens, they will be forwarded to the appropriate department.

7. How do I submit a resume?

Resumes will be accepted with a completed City of Gainesville application. If only a resume is submitted, the applicant will not be considered for any position until a completed application is received.

8. How do I notify the City of my address or phone number change?

You must notify the Human Resources Department immediately. We will make the changes to your records. If we are unable to contact you because you have moved or changed your phone number, your name may be withdrawn from further consideration.

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Fire Department

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1. Does Gainesville Fire-Rescue provide Home Fire Inspections?

Yes. Home Fire Inspections are available upon request through the Fire Marshal’s office. To schedule a Home Fire Inspection, call (940) 668-7777 Ext. 737. Home Fire Inspections are designed to assist homeowners with identifying hazards and ways to make their home safer.

2. How is the City notified of changing weather conditions?

The City of Gainesville receives weather warnings from the National Weather Service. Once the City is notified, the information is forwarded to the local law enforcement agencies and Storm Spotters when activated. Weather information will be posted to the City's website and Facebook to keep citizens aware of changing conditions.

3. How do I get to Gainesville Fire-Rescue?

The headquarters for Gainesville Fire-Rescue is located at 201 Santa Fe in the Gainesville Public Safety Facility. The Gainesville Police Department and Municipal Court are also located here. Two fire substations are located at 115 E. Pecan St. and 200 N. Clements in Gainesville. Google map to Gainesville Fire Rescue

4. Which current fire code is used by the City of Gainesvile?

The 2009 edition of the International Fire Code is currently used. The city also has adopted a select number of amendments.

5. What is the Fire Department's permit process?

All permits are managed by the City of Gainesville’s Community Services division located at 104 W. Hird St. The telephone number is (940) 668-4540.

6. Can I take a tour of Gainesville Fire-Rescue?

Gainesville Fire-Rescue is proud to offer tours for schools, churches, home study groups, boys and girls clubs, civic clubs, or any other interested groups or individuals. Station tours consist of a detailed look into a Firefighter’s work day, a tour of the living quarters of the fire station, description of the job that Firefighters perform, an up-close look at the fire engines and equipment that Firefighters use every day. The primary purpose of the station tour is to educate the community about fire prevention using a variety of age appropriate techniques.

7. How can I schedule a tour or event with the Fire Department?

Tours or events are coordinated through the Fire Prevention Division of Gainesville Fire Rescue. Call (940) 668-7777 to schedule a tour or email tsieger@gvps.org

8. Why does a fire truck sometimes go to medical calls with the ambulance?

The Fire Department First Responder program provides manpower to assist in patient care for life threatening medical emergencies within the city limits of Gainesville.

9. Can I burn trash or tree limbs on my property?

Limited outdoor burning may be conducted under strict guidelines with a permit. Contact the Fire Marshal’s Office at (940) 668-7777 for further information.

10. What do Firefighters do with their time when they are not fighting a fire?

Firefighters have daily assignments and projects that keep them active during the day. They perform safety inspections of businesses, pre-fire planning, fire prevention activities, apparatus, equipment, and station maintenance. In addition, they have assigned training materials they must complete individually each month to meet required federal and state mandates for fire and medical certifications. Each shift also performs hands-on training each month.

11. Do Firefighters get to sleep at the station?

They do, but in reality, their nights are interrupted many times for response to incidents. Statistics show that the more serious fires tend to occur after 11:00 p.m. and before 6:00 a.m. The City’s Firefighters are on duty for twenty-four hours. Their shift begins at 7:00 a.m. and ends at 7:00 a.m. the next day.

12. Are business owners required to have a fire inspection?

Yes. Gainesville Fire-Rescue inspection program encompasses all commercial property in the City limits of Gainesville. Your occupancy will be contacted in advance of an upcoming fire inspection.

13. What are typical hazards and violations looked for during a fire inspection?

Some of the more common hazards and violations include:
*Accumulation of waste materials, rubbish, paper, high weeds, etc.
*Defective wiring, switches, plugs, or junction box covers missing.
*Obstruction of electrical control panels.
*Extension cords used as permanent wiring, or misused.
*Fire suppression or sprinkler system inspections out of date.
*Fire extinguisher inspections out of date or fire extinguishers missing.
*Address not plainly visible and legible from roadway.
*Exits obstructed.
*Exit signs missing or not illuminated.
*Improper usage or storage of flammable materials.
*High pressure cylinders not adequately secured.

14. What type of early warning system does the City of Gainesville have for severe weather?

The City of Gainesville Emergency Management Division utilizes a comprehensive severe weather early warning system. This system consists of local Storm Spotters, television alerts and severe weather sirens. In the event of a WARNING, the local cable alert and weather sirens will be activated. You will be provided with instructions on what action to take.

15. I can't hear the closest siren from inside my home. Why?

It is important to know that the outdoor warning sirens are intended for outdoor use only to protect persons who cannot access a radio or television, and are not intended to alert you to severe weather from inside your home. The best investment you can make for yourself and your family is to purchase a weather radio with a tone alert feature. These NOAA weather radios are inexpensive and can be purchased at local radio or electronics stores. As a service to the public, the National Weather Service broadcasts uninterrupted weather information to the public 24 hours a day.

16. When does the City test the storm sirens?

The City of Gainesville conducts a test of the emergency alert system on the first Mnoday of each month at 1:30 p.m. (weather permitting). The alternative test date for the sirens is the following Monday at 1:30 p.m. The sirens may be heard in your local area and the local cable access will be interrupted with a test message, which is broadcast in English & Spanish. The Fire Department may test the system at other times as necessary. We apologize for any inconvenience to you, but it is necessary to test the warning system to prepare for any potential emergencies in our area.

17. How can I make a request for a copy of a fire report?

The Fire Department requires that the person requesting a report submit an Open Records Request form. Most requests are usually handled on the same business day, but some may take longer. There is no charge for a fire report. To request a copy of a Fire Report, email gfd@gvps.org.

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Main

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1. How do I contact a city/county department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

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Municipal Court

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1. Can I pay out my fine?

You can set up a payment plan for your fine. You must appear at the court in person to enter a plea and fill out the paperwork to set up the payment schedule. Payment plans cannot be done over the phone or by mail.

2. Do I have to see the Judge to enter my plea?

No, you can enter your plea with the clerk at the window and take care of your fine.

3. Can I take a Defensive Driving Course for my citation?

There are certain criteria that you and your citation must meet before you can take a Defensive Driving course. You must have a valid current class C Texas Driver License and insurance, speeding no more than 25 miles over the posted sped limit and the violation can not have occured in a school zone or construction zone with workers present. You must first enter your plea and pay a fee of $112.00 to the court.

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Public Services

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1. How do I get a missing or damaged street/traffic sign(s) replaced?

Public Works, Streets Division is responsible for replacing or repairing City street and traffic signs. Please call (940) 668-4540 to report missing or damaged sign(s).

2. How do I get a pothole fixed?

Public Services, Street Division is responsible for repairing potholes in City owned public streets. Please call (940) 668-4540 to report a pothole.

California Street, Grand Avenue, Highway 82 and the Frontage Roads are maintained by the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT) . Please call (940) 665-5312 to report a pothole at these locations or Click here.

3. How do I find out who is responsible for maintaining or replacing the sidewalk in front of my home/business?

Per City ordinance the adjacent property owner is responsible for maintenance and/or replacement,of the sidewalk. Please call (940) 668-4540 if you have any questions.

4. How do I get a streetlight fixed?

Streetlights are owned and maintained by Oncor Electric.To report street light outages contact Oncor Electric at 1-888-313-4747 or Click here. Click here

5. How do I get a storm drain unclogged?

If you notice an inlet is blocked, or storm water is not draining from a street, please call (940) 668-4540 to report flooded locations or problem areas. For after hours emergencies, contact the Gainesville Police Department at (940) 668-7777 and the request will be forwarded to our standby personnel.

6. How do I get a sewer blockage checked?

We recommend you first contact the Wastewater Collections Division at (940) 668-4540 during normal working hours, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. For after hour emergencies, contact the Gainesville Police Department at (940) 668-7777 and the request will be forwarded to our standby personnel. We will flush the public sanitary sewer you are connected to at no charge. This will help determine where the blockage is. If the blockage is in your house lateral we will advise you to call a plumber.

7. How do I report a sewer odor?

Call the Public Services Department at (940) 668-4540.

8. How do I report a water leak at my residence?

The homeowner is responsible for the pipes within the house, as well as the water service line from the house to the water meter box. If you see water coming out of the ground near your water meter box please call (940) 668-4540. We will inspect this at no charge to you. For after hours emergencies, contact the Gainesville Police Department at (940) 668-7777 and a crew will be dispatched to investigate the situation and take the appropriate action.

9. How do I report water running down the street?

If you notice an unusual discharge of water, whether it is in the street, from a meter, or a hydrant, call the Water Distrubition Division at (940) 668-4540 during normal working hours, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. For after hours emergencies, contact the Gainesville Police Department at (940) 668-7777 and a crew will be dispatched to investigate the situation and take the appropriate action.

10. How do I get low or high water pressure issues checked?

Call the Water Division of the Publc Services Department at (940) 668-4540 during normal business hours. For after hours emergencies, contact the Gainesville Police Department at (940) 668-7777 and the request will be forwarded to our standby personnel.

11. How do I report that my water is cloudy and milky colored?

This is typically the air in the line. If you run your water for a short time, it should clear. If not, call (940) 668-4540.

12. How do I report a bad odor or taste in the water?

Call the Public Services Department at (940) 668-4540.

13. How do I report a fire hydrant leaking?

Call the Public Services Department at (940) 668-4540.

14. How do I report water and sewer problems after normal working hours?

For after hours emergencies, contact the Gainesville Police Department at (940) 668-7777 and the request will be forwarded to our standby personnel.

15. How do I arrange for a tour of the Wastewater Treatment Plant?

To arrange a plant tour, contact the Wastewater Treatment Plant at (940) 668-4543.

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Solid Waste

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1. What day is my trash picked up?

Trash is serviced on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday or Friday depending on your address. Please contact 668-4551 for your service day.

2. When is my trash picked up during a holiday week?

Your trash day may change when there is a holiday. If the city holiday falls on a Monday, then Monday's route will run on Tuesday; Tuesday's route will run on Wednesday; Thursday and Friday's routes will run as scheduled. During a holiday week, there will be no special/bulk pick up on Wednesday.

3. Does the city offer recycling services?

The city does not currently offer curbside recycling; however, the city does accept recycling at our transfer station facility located at 601 N. I-35.

4. How do I schedule a special pick up on Wednesday?

Please contact Solid Waste at 668-4551 to schedule a special pick up. If your trash day is on Monday or Friday, we service special pick up in your area on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month during a non-holiday week. If your trash day is on Tuesday or Thursday, we service special pick up in your area on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month during a non-holiday week.

5. How Do I Start or Stop Service?

Solid waste service to residents is initiated or terminated in conjunction with your water service through the City of Gainesville. Contact Customer Service Reps at (940)668-4500 or visit City Hall located at 200 South Rusk, between 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. to start or stop service.

6. What is the monthly charge for residential waste collection?

The basic monthly fee for residential solid waste collection is $17.35 per month.

Special bulk item and yard waste pick-ups are scheduled on Wednesday, provided that the City offices are not closed for a Holiday. Special bulk items will have a charge of $30.00 per item. These charges will appear on the customer’s water bill. Please call General Services Department at (940)668-4551 to request this service.

7. Where do I pay my bill?

Monthly bills may be paid by mail, in person or after hours in the drop box located at City Hall or by bank draft. Automatic bank drafting service allows residential customers to have their monthly bill paid automatically from their checking or savings account. Visit City of Gainesville at 200 S. Rusk, to pay bills in person or leave payments in the after hours drop box. You may contact the office at (940) 668-4500.

8. Where do I place items?

Place all items at least 4’ feet away from other containers, brush or bulk waste, mailboxes, gas meters, fences, parked cars, overhead obstacles and any other items. Do not block or impede a street, water or gas meter, drainage ditch, intersection or sidewalk. Improperly placed waste may not be collected.

Place bundled brush or bulk items at the front curb.
According to City Ordinance, residential waste shall be placed at the location designated by the city no earlier that 6:00 p.m. of the evening before and no later than 7:00 a.m. of the collection day.

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Zoo, Frank Buck Zoo

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1. What time can you feed the giraffe and how much does it cost?

10:30 am daily (weather permitting) for $1.00 per piece of food.

2. How do I get to the Zoo?

1000 W. California St., Gainesville, TX 76240. From DFW take I-35 North, exit 496B, west on California Street, turn left into Leonard Park. Frank Buck Zoo Map

3. When does the Frank E. Schmitz miniature train in Leonard Park run?

The train is not operated by the Frank Buck Zoo. Hours and operation are managed by the Gainesville Parks & Recreation Dept. Please call 940-668-4530 for current hours and dates of operation.

4. What is the number to the Swimming Pool?

The Swimming Pool is operated and managed by the Gainesville Parks & Recreation Dept. M-F their number is 940-668-4530. June 2 - Aug. 18, 2012 pool staff may be reached at 940-668-4534.

5. Can we picnic in the zoo?

For the safety of the animal collection, no outside food may be brought into the zoo. Food may be purchased from the zoo giftshop or on-site concession (Aunt Sweet Tooth's Kitchen and Jungle Grill) stand and eaten on the dining deck behind the entry building as long the dining deck has not been reserved for a party or other special event. If you prefer to bring a picnic lunch to enjoy during your outing, please leave any food in a cooler in your car, there are two covered pavilions outside the Frank Buck Zoo, in Leonard Park, as well as many picnic tables and even some grills.

6. Can we bring drinks into the zoo?

The zoo giftshop does carry a variety of bottled beverages for sale. Bottled water and drinks without commercial lids and straws are okay to bring in. Straws and lids pose a safety hazard to the animal collection. Thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation.

7. Can we feed the animals?

Public Giraffe feeding takes place at 10:30 AM daily weather permitting. Cost is $1 per piece of food. To inquire about VIP feedings opportunites for small groups (no more than 10) contact giftshop@cogtx.org or zooeducation@cogtx.org.

Be sure to bring plenty of quarters for feed vending machines located at the petting zoo area and the elk exhibit. On busy days, once these feeders are emptied, for the health of the animals, they will not be refilled.

Anyone caught bringing outside food into the zoo and feeding animals, unauthorized, will be asked to leave. Thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation to keep our animal family happy & healthy!