FAQs • Fayetteville, AR • CivicEngage

▼
Accounting & Audit

1. What is the sales tax rate for the City of Fayetteville?: The sales tax on purchases made within the city limits is collected by the State of Arkansas, except the Hotel/Motel/Restaurant (HMR) and supplemental beverage taxes which are remitted to the City. Sales Tax Rates

2. What is the Hotel/Motel/Restaurant (HMR) Tax?: The City of Fayetteville currently has a 2% HMR tax on establishments engaged in the business of renting, leasing or otherwise furnishing hotel or motel accommodations, or selling prepared food or beverages for consumption on or off premises.

New businesses need to complete and return a HMR registration form. Additional City reporting forms and applications are available by request at 479-575-8287 or on the Applications, Forms, and Links page.

3. Are Short-Term Rental (STR) businesses required to remit the HMR tax?: Yes, short-term rentals must obtain a business license and remit monthly HMR taxes per City Ordinance 6427.

4. What about platforms that collect/remit taxes on behalf of STR businesses?

All STR business owners should contact the City of Fayetteville Accounting Office to determine HMR tax remittance status.

On December 28th, 2017, a Voluntary Collection Agreement was successfully executed between the City of Fayetteville and Airbnb regarding HMR taxes. As of February 2018, Airbnb has collected and remitted the HMR tax monthly to the City of Fayetteville on behalf of “hosts.”

On March 28th, 2022, a Voluntary Collection Agreement was successfully executed between the City of Fayetteville and HomeAway/VRBO. Effective May 1st, 2022, VRBO will begin collecting HMR taxes and remitting to the City of Fayetteville in accordance with this agreement. Between May 2021 and April 2022, any Short-Term Rental (STR) owners using HomeAway/VRBO must remit the HMR tax as this time frame is not covered under the agreement.

STR owners and operators who list on any other platforms or by any other means are individually responsible for collecting the HMR tax from guests and remitting it to the City on a monthly basis.

5. What is the Supplemental Beverage (SB) Tax?: The City of Fayetteville currently has a 5% SB tax that must be remitted monthly at the same time that the state supplemental tax is due. Please contact the Accounting Department for more information at 479-575-8287.

6. Does the City of Fayetteville require a business license?: Yes, all businesses (including home-based businesses and short-term rentals) within the incorporated city limits of Fayetteville must obtain a Business License unless the business qualifies for an exemption. For more information, please visit the
Business License page.

7. How can I pay my Accounts Receivable invoice?: Payments can be made in-person, by mail, or online.
Cash, check, MasterCard or Visa are accepted at City Hall, located at 113 W. Mountain Avenue. You can pay with a check by mail, or you can pay online with MasterCard or Visa on our Make a Payment page.

8. Can I pay Hotel/Motel/Restaurant (HMR) or Supplemental Beverage (SB) taxes online?

You cannot pay these taxes online at this time. A check, cashier check, or money order should be mailed along with the reporting form to:

Accounting
City of Fayetteville
113 W. Mountain Avenue
Fayetteville, AR 72701

Reporting forms are available to you by request at 479-575-8287 or on the

Applications, Forms, and Links page.

9. What types of transportation related permits does the City require?

The City of Fayetteville requires various permitting for the following:
* taxicab
* limousine
* non-motorized passenger transport vehicle
* rental car service

The City requires taxicab, limousine, and non-motorized passenger companies to obtain a company permit approved by the City Council known as the Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity. Applicants must apply through the Police Department and be presented on application to the City Council. Once that certificate is approved by the City Council, additional permits are then required through the Police Department, and these vary depending on Certificate Type. You can contact the Police Department at 479-575-8355 to begin the permitting process.

Rental car service permits are remitted to the Accounting Division. You may contact Accounting at 479-575-8287 to request a form or fill one out online. Rental Car Service Privilege

10. How do I obtain the City of Fayetteville Financial Reports?: Financial Reports can be found online. Financial Reports

11. What are the Accounting Division's operating hours?: Hours are Monday through Friday: 8:00am - 12:00pm and 1:00pm - 5:00pm.
Please refer to the calendar for closings. Calendar

▼
Animal Services

Show All Answers

1. How much does it cost to adopt a new pet?: Any dog under five years old is $60 and older than five years will be $30. Cats and kittens are $20 adoption fee. We do not charge an adoption fee for any pet that is over 10 years old. This fee covers the spay or neuter, microchipping, rabies vaccination, booster shots, de-worming, and flea and tick treatment. We test our dogs for heartworms and our cats for feline leukemia. Considering everything that is included, our adoption fee is a great deal. Taking a "free" pet from a newspaper ad or friend can cost up to three times as much on basic health services at a veterinary clinic. However, the services provided by Fayetteville Animal Services are in no way intended to be a substitution for regular professional veterinary care. Also, by adopting from our shelter, you not only save the life of that animal, you support our services so that we can continue to care for abandoned, stray, injured, and sick animals. For more information, contact Animal Services at 479-444-3456.

2. What do I need to do if an animal bites me?: Immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and warm water. If the bite results in an open, bleeding wound seek immediate medical attention. Make a note of the animal that includes the species, breed, color, and size if you do not know who owns it. If you know the owner of the offending animal, get the owner's contact information.
Animal Services must be contacted at 479-444-3456 and a bite report must be filed. If the bite occurs after business hours, contact the Fayetteville Police Department at 479-587-3555. This process complies with the Arkansas Rabies Control Act and is designed to contain the spread of rabies.
If the animal is a stray or wildlife (raccoon, possum, etc.) a rabies infection could be possible. An Animal Services Officer will make every effort to capture the animal for rabies testing. For more information, contact Animal Services at 479-444-3456.

3. Whom do I call if I have an after hours emergency that involves animals?: Call the Fayetteville Police non-emergency number at 479-587-3555. A dispatcher will take your information and an Animal Services Officer will return your call. We have an Animal Services Officer on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Please note that we are only able to respond to emergency calls outside of regular hours.

4. What kinds of donations does the Animal Shelter need?: The shelter has many needs that can be filled by donations from the public such as blankets, towels, toys, pet carriers, canned pet food, aluminum cans (by the bag), office supplies, bleach, laundry soap, dish soap, and paper towels.
There is no need to schedule an appointment to drop off donations. For more information, contact Animal Services at 479-444-3456.

5. I just moved into Fayetteville. How do I register my pet's microchip?: You have 30 days to notify Animal Services that you have a pet with a microchip. You can simply fill out a microchip registration form linked below or call Animal Services at 479-444-3456 and give your and your pet's information. Make sure to have the microchip number ready.
If you don't know your pet's microchip number you, can go to the shelter at 1640 S. Armstrong Avenue in Fayetteville and we will scan your pet and register the chip number in our local database. We can also give you contact information to nationally register the microchip. Pet Microchip Registration Form

6. What do I need to know about rabies?: Rabies is a disease caused by a virus carried in animals infected with the disease. The most common carriers of rabies are wild animals such as skunks, raccoons, and bats. These animals can infect a household pet that could, in turn, pass the disease on to people and other animals.
Care should be taken to avoid situations that place your pet in contact with wild animals. Because there is a possibility that any strange animal may not have been vaccinated, adults should caution children to use care when around strange and unknown animals. All dogs and cats in the State of Arkansas are required by law to be vaccinated against rabies. A veterinarian licensed by the State of Arkansas must administer this vaccination.
It is important that your dog or cat receive a rabies vaccination. For more information, contact Animal Services at 479-444-3456.

7. I put in an application to adopt one of your animals, why do I have to wait to bring it home?: Our goal is to find permanent, loving homes for companion animals. We evaluate the animals to the best of our ability to assure they will be suitable family pets. Our 24 hour wait period allows our veterinary staff to spay or neuter, microchip, rabies vaccinate, and feline leukemia or heartworm test the new addition to your family.
This also gives you time to purchase the items you need such as collars, leashes, food, bowls, litter boxes, dog houses, and pet carriers. If a pet is already spayed or neutered, you may be able to take the animal home sooner. For more information, contact the Animal Services at 479-444-3456.

8. Are you a "No Kill" shelter?

We are an "open admission" municipal shelter, meaning we take in every animal regardless of age, health, or temperament. We only provide animal services for city of Fayetteville residents and animals found within Fayetteville city limits. "No kill" shelters often selectively accept their animals knowing they can be placed.

The standard definition of "no kill" is an annual euthanasia rate below 10%. Fayetteville Animal Services has met that benchmark since 2013.

Because we take in sick, behaviorally unsound and very old animals, we cannot place all of them in homes. If the animal is aggressive or has an illness/injury that will take major resources or constitutes a quality of life issue, we are committed to providing humane euthanasia. Those decisions are made by our staff Veterinarian. For more information, contact the Animal Services at 479-444-3456.

9. Is Animal Services responsible for picking up dead animals?: If you notice a deceased animal (wildlife or domestic) on any city street or sidewalk please contact us at 479-444-3456. We will place a service request for animal control to pick up the body as long as it is safe for the officer to do so. If the animal is on a state highway (such as Highway 265/Crossover Road) you will need to call the state highway department for pick up at 479-251-8418.

10. My pet is sick, what do I need to do?: We are not able to treat owned animals that are ill or injured. If your pet becomes ill or injured, you should call your veterinarian or the one nearest to you. Local veterinarians' phone numbers are listed in the yellow pages of the phone book under the heading "Veterinarians". For after-hours emergencies, most veterinarians leave a message on their answering machine giving you a number to call to contact a veterinarian on emergency call. The Animal Emergency Clinic of Northwest Arkansas is located in Springdale and open from 6pm-7am. Their phone number is 479-927-0007.
Animal Emergency Clinic of Northwest Arkansas

11. What can I do to get involved with the Fayetteville Animal Shelter?

Opportunities are available for volunteers at the shelter, in the office, and at special events. We need people to walk dogs, socialize cats, and generally spread awareness about what we do. You can also become a foster parent for us. Foster parents will bring animals into their homes to care for while trying to find a forever home for that animal. This gives us more space and you get to take an active part in our adoption process. We have new volunteer orientation every other Saturday at 10 am here at our facility.

Contact the Animal Services at 479-444-3456 to find out when the next orientation will be.

12. What do you do with the money I donated to the Animal Shelter?: Financial contributions are placed into a Donation Fund. The donations are used to purchase vaccinations, medicines, and pet supplies that are not allotted for in the Animal Services budget. The shelter spends 100% of your tax-deductible donation on the animals in our care.
Financial donations may be earmarked to help fund our spay and neuter program or any other purpose you would prefer. For more information, contact Animal Services at 479-444-3456.

13. Who is responsible for registering my pet's microchip?: The pet owner is always responsible for making sure that their pet's microchip is registered with Fayetteville Animal Services as well as with the microchip company the owner purchased the microchip from.
Any chip that is purchased from Animal Services will be registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC) for you. Any change in address or phone numbers should be reported to Animal Services pursuant to Fayetteville city code chapter 92. The City of Fayetteville is not responsible for ensuring that your information is kept current.

14. I lost my pet, what do I need to do?: You can file a lost pet report online. The most important thing you can do is come down to the animal shelter and look for yourself. There is no one that can identify your pet better than you. Come to the shelter every three or four days and look for your pet. Talk to your neighbors. Many times your pet may have stayed close to your home, but a neighbor may have taken your pet in thinking it was a stray. Many newspapers will not charge you to post a lost animal classified ad. The Fayetteville Craigslist page has a good lost and found section and social networking sites like Facebook, the Nextdoor app and Twitter can help spread the word. Check with veterinary clinics in your area.
Fayetteville Craigslist Page

15. I found a stray, what do I need to do?

The most important thing is to never approach an animal that you think may be dangerous. Your personal safety is very important to us. If the animal appears to be friendly, check for tags and call the numbers. Arrange a meeting with the owner if you can locate one. If the animal is not wearing tags, bring him or her to the Fayetteville Animal Shelter or the nearest veterinary clinic to have it scanned for a microchip. If you like to go an extra step, we also recommend posting on social media such as the Nextdoor app or your neighborhood Facebook group.

Within Fayetteville city limits we will come to pick up stray dogs. Per city ordinance, stray cats must be confined in a carrier of some sort before we can pick it up. If you can not get close enough to the animal to check for tags or it is not wearing tags, call Animal Services at 479-444-3456 so that we can attempt to capture it. If you have found a stray, but don't wish to surrender it to the shelter, submit a Found Pet Report via the city's website. Be aware that once the animal has been in your possession for 72 hours you will need to make an appointment to surrender it to the shelter. For more information, contact Animal Services at 479-444-3456.

Found Pet Forms

16. What do I do if I know about animal cruelty, abuse, or neglect?: To report instances of abuse or cruelty, or for more information regarding animal care, call Animal Services at 479-444-3456 or 479-587-3555 for after hours calls.

17. Why do I need to microchip my pet?

The Fayetteville City Council unanimously passed mandatory microchipping for all owned pets in January of 2012. Your pet’s microchip is his/her ticket home if he/she gets lost. Your pet’s microchip greatly increases the odds of him/her being returned to you. If your pet has a microchip our Animal Services Officers will attempt to return your pet to you if they pick it up.

Also, a microchip will prove that your pet is not a stray. If we have an animal that we know has an owner, we will hold onto the animal for five days longer than we do strays. You must register your pet's microchip with the City of Fayetteville. There is no fee to register the chip with the City, however there is a $20.00 fee for the service. You can bring your pet to the Shelter to be microchipped any time we are open.

You can download a microchip registration form by using the provided link, print it, and mail it to:

Animal Services
1640 S. Armstrong Ave
Fayetteville, AR 72701

For more information, contact Animal Services at 479-444-3456. Microchip Registration Form (PDF)

18. Does my pet need to wear his collar with identification tags, even if he never gets outside?: Yes. The collar and identification tags can only be effective in reuniting you and your lost pet if he/she is wearing it. There is always a possibility of a pet going on an "adventure" away from home. In fact, it is the pet that "never gets outside" that is less likely to return on their own because he/she is easily disoriented.
Approximately 1 in 3 pets will get lost at some point in their lives. Without wearing proper identification, 90% of them will not be returned. For more information, contact Animal Services at 479-444-3456.

19. Does Fayetteville have a "leash law"?: Yes. Neither cats nor dogs are allowed to be "at large". An animal is to be considered at large if it is not under the physical control of the person in charge of it. It will not be considered at large if it is on the premises of the owner while accompanied by the owner.
Animals found running at large may be impounded which could result in impound fees and other fines. If you take your dog or cat for a walk, he/she must stay on leash the entire time. For more information, contact Animal Services at 479-444-3456.

20. How many animals am I allowed to own?: It depends on the size of your property. You must have 100 square feet for every animal. That means if your house is 750 square feet you are legally allowed to own seven animals. For dogs, an enclosed yard will count toward overall square footage. There are additional ordinance requirements to ensure adequate pet care and sanitary conditions. For more information or to report a potential issue, contact Animal Services at 479-444-3456.

21. I don't have a fenced yard and my dog can't stay inside all day while I'm away. Can I chain him/her outside?: No. Dogs are not allowed to be tied to a fixed point in Fayetteville. Studies have shown that chained dogs are the ones most likely to attack or bite. Chains can also become entangled, keeping the dog from food, water, and shelter.
Dogs that are chained are at risk of choking. Alternatives include purchasing or building a kennel run that is at least ten feet by ten feet per dog and crate training indoors. Trolley systems are a good alternative, but owners must be home while pets are utilizing the system. For more information, contact Animal Services at 479-444-3456.

22. What is a trolley system?: A trolley system is a confinement system that uses cables and a pulley. There has to be one cable that attaches to the collar and it must be at least eight feet long. The trolley cable is fixed to two permanent points that are at least ten feet apart and it must be four to seven feet off the ground. It needs to have a swivel on at least one end of the trolley cable to prevent entanglement.
Trolley systems allow your pet to exercise while in a contained area. However, trolley systems are to be used only when you are on the premises. For more information, contact Animal Services at 479-444-3456.

23. What do I do if I have a nuisance wildlife problem?: Animal Services only responds to complaints of wildlife that has made entry into a living area of your home such as the living room, bedroom, etc. If you have wildlife that has made entry into your attic or crawlspace then we recommend contacting one of the local wildlife removal businesses in the area to humanely remove the animals. You may also purchase your own humane trap at any hardware store and trap the animal yourself. If you choose to trap yourself you must also be willing to relocate the animal yourself to an area outside the City limits. Animal Services will relocate a trapped animal for you only once per year.

24. What do I do if I have an animal in my own trap?: If you set a trap and catch a domestic animal (I.E. dog or cat), call Animal Services at 479-444-3456. An Officer will come, pick up the animal, and return the trap to you. In an effort to keep the shelter from being overburdened we will only accept 2 cats per week per Fayetteville resident. Officers will only respond to wildlife in a trap once per calendar year.

25. What can I do to keep animals out of my garden and my house?: Wildlife can be attracted to your garden as a source of food and your house as shelter. Following these tips can help:

DEER IN THE GARDEN - Run a small wire fence around the perimeter of your garden. Mount it about three feet off the ground and a few feet outside of your garden. Monofilament fishing line works great. When the deer get close enough to touch the fence, it spooks them and they run away.

WILDLIFE IN CHIMNEYS - Have your chimney cleaned once a year to make sure wildlife does not have an entrance in the first place. If one is inside, drop a rope down from the top of the chimney so they can climb out (this works great for raccoons). Once the animal is out you should contact a home repair service to replace or install a proper chimney cap to keep the animals from re-entering later.
If you have an open fireplace, make sure it is closed so they can not get into the house. Open the flue so they can come down into the fireplace. Once there, close the flue so the animal can not go back up. Trap it in your fireplace and call Animal Services so we can remove it. Do not try to smoke the animal out, as even a small amount of smoke can kill a small or young animal and this also poses a fire threat if the animal has built a nest in your chimney.

ANIMALS IN TRASH - Build a simple plywood box to house your trash cans. Also, try installing two eye-hole screws into a secure wall about the width of your trash can. Wrap a bungee cord around the trash can and fasten both ends to the screws. This method only works with trash cans with lids that are not easily opened. Do not use ammonia or bleach as they may poison the animal.

STRAY CATS - Stray or feral cats will go where there is food and stay there. Do not feed stray or feral cats. If you feed one soon you will be feeding so many that the situation will be uncontrollable. If you want to help a stray cat, bring it inside and make it a house pet. This is not suggested with aggressive or feral cats.

WILDLIFE UNDERNEATH HOUSES OR PORCHES - Porches make great shelter for wildlife, but it can be uncomfortable for the owner. Make sure to seal all entrances to underneath your home by fixing broken boards or installing new trellis. You may still need access to your crawl space, so install a lock.
For more information, contact Animal Services at 479-444-3456.

26. What do I do if I see a snake?: There are many different types of snakes that are native to the Fayetteville area and very few are venomous. Animal Control will respond 24-7 if you have a snake inside your residence. Just call Fayetteville Police Dispatch at 479-587-3555. Snakes seen outside should be left alone and will eventually go away. Here is some helpful information on snakes and other reptiles from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

27. What do I do if I see a bear?: The American black bear is native to the Fayetteville area, but there are very few sightings. While it can be scary to see a bear they generally pose no threat. If you see a bear within the city limits of Fayetteville please contact Fayetteville Police Dispatch at 479-587-3555. Animal Control will come out to monitor the bear to ensure it leaves the city limits safely.

▼
Aviation

Show All Answers

1. What do I do if I need to speak to the fixed base operator (FBO) about fueling, crew car availability, overnight hangar, catering, after hours service or another subject?: Please contact the City of Fayetteville FBO at 479-443-4343.

2. Does Drake Field have airline service?

No. Fayetteville - Drake Field is a General Aviation facility and currently does not serve commercial airlines. All commercial carriers now arrive and depart from Northwest Arkansas National Airport - XNA. Contact information for XNA:

Northwest Arkansas National Airport

One Airport Boulevard Suite 100

Bentonville, AR 72712

Phone: 479-205-1000

Fax: 479-205-1001

Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport

3. What are your current fuel prices?: Please call the City of Fayetteville fixed base operator (FBO) at 479-443-4343 for current pricing or check www.airnav.com and enter KYFV as the airport identifier.

4. Where is the self serve fueling station located on the airfield?: The self-serve station is located on the northeast corner of the airport, southeast of the Air Traffic Control Tower. Taxi east on Taxiway Delta, then north on the T-hangar apron past the pilot restrooms and lounge building.

5. I have an STC for unleaded gasoline for my aircraft. Can I purchase MoGas at Drake Field?: Sorry. We no longer carry MoGas at Drake Field.

6. I want to learn how to fly. Does Drake Field have Pilot Training?

Yes! Ross Executive Aviation can be reached at 479-973-2759 or 479-251-1998 and is located on Drake Field.

EAS Flight Training is now open as well. They can be reached at 479-368-8448.

7. How can I get directions to Drake Field?: Use the google maps link below for custom directions
The terminal parking lot on the left. The physical address is 4500 S School Avenue.
Google Maps - Drake Field

8. How can I report an aircraft that appears to be flying too low over my neighborhood?: Please contact the Drake Field Air Traffic Control Tower at 479-442-2182

9. Are there organizations that provide free air transport for specialized medical purposes?: There are a couple of organizations that provide free flights for people who need to travel for specialized medical treatment.
Grace Flight of America can be reached at 1-888-500-0433.
Angel Flight Incorporated can be reached 1-800-989-2602. Grace Flight of America

10. Are there any aircraft maintenance shops on the field?: There are is one maintenance facility on the airfield: Wings Avionics Incorporated Phone: 479-587-0005

11. Does Drake Field have an Air Traffic Control Tower?: Drake Tower operates on a very high frequency (VHF) of 128.0. The ATC Tower operates from 6:00am - 10:00pm daily and can be reached at 479-442-2182.

12. I'm a T-hangar tenant. How can I report an issue with my hangar, lights, gate access, self serve fueling station, east-side restrooms, rent payment/billing, or some other problem.: Your Airport Administration is eager to assist you with any issue you may have. Please give us a call at 479-718-7642. Our office hours are 8am - 5pm Monday - Friday.

13. What do I do if I want to visit the Arkansas Air and Military Museum?: The museum is located next to the terminal building. They can be contacted directly at 479-521-4947 or visit their website for more information.
Arkansas Air and Military Museum

14. I want to pay my hanger invoice. Can I pay my hangar rent invoice with a credit card or automatic withdrawal?: Credit card payment over the web is now available via Online Billing Services. Visa or MasterCard is accepted. Automatic bank withdrawal is not currently available. You can also drop by the Airport Administration office at Drake Field during business hours, 8am - 5pm Monday - Friday, or mail your payment to: 4500 S School, Suite F, Fayetteville, AR 72701

15. What are the hours of the FBO?: Monday - Friday: 6am-10pm
Saturday, Sunday: 8am -8pm
After hours service is available for a fee of $75 per line staff needed. You may arrange a callout by calling 479-443-4343.

16. How do I make a car rental reservation?: You can either contact Hertz (479-446-6862) - Enterprise (479-442-7368 ext. 4) or Avis (479-444-1926)
You can also call us directly to contact the rental companies on your behalf at (479-443-4343)

▼
Backflow Prevention

Show All Answers

1. Why is the City doing this now?: In the past, the backflow prevention ordinance had addressed commercial and industrial installations. In May of 2017 the City amended its local backflow ordinance to comply with the state plumbing code, which addresses all backflow preventers, including residential installations, as well as the requirement of annual testing and documentation of that testing. To ensure the high quality of our drinking water, the City of Fayetteville Water Department is initiating an automated tracking system and enforcement protocol of this amended requirement.

2. What is backflow?: Backflow is the flow of water or other liquids, mixtures or substances, under positive or reduced pressure into the distribution pipes of a potable water supply from any source other than its intended source. Backflow is caused by either backsiphonage or backpressure. Backsiphonage occurs when a flow of used, contaminated, or polluted water from a plumbing fixture or vessel enters into the public water system, often due to negative pressure in a pipe. It is important to note that a drop in pressure is out of your control and can occur at any time. Backpressure occurs when the pressure is greater than the pressure in the potable water distribution system.

3. What is Cross Connection?: Cross Connection is any connection between the public water supply and a source of contamination or pollution. Examples of cross connections include a hose connection to a chemical solution, lawn irrigation systems, water softeners, hose connections, boilers, hot tubs and swimming pools.

4. What is the most common form of cross connection?: The ordinary garden hose is used to create the most common form of cross connection. A hose can be easily connected to the drinking water supply and used for a variety of potentially dangerous applications.

5. What is a backflow preventer and why are they needed?: A backflow prevention assembly is an approved, testable assembly that uses valves to prevent potential contaminants from flowing into the drinking water system. Two commonly required devices are the Double Check Valve Assembly (DCVA) and the Reduced Pressure Valve Assembly (RP). Both devices protect drinking water systems from backflow.

6. Who needs a backflow preventer?: All commercial and industrial water customers are required to have backflow protection at the water service entrance and at actual or potential points of use where contaminants may be introduced. This includes all residential water customers having a lawn irrigation system or a water use identified by the City of Fayetteville as an actual or potential cross connection.

7. How do I find a licensed backflow assembly tester?: Our licensed and certified backflow assembly tester list is available on our Licensed Backflow Testers page. You may also contact the City of Fayetteville’s Backflow Prevention Department by email or by phone at 479-575-8386.

8. How often does my backflow preventer need to be tested?: Annually. The State of Arkansas Plumbing Code requires all backflow prevention installations be inspected/tested once per year on a regularly scheduled basis.

9. Who is responsible for the testing and maintenance of the backflow preventers?: It is the responsibility of the water customer to ensure that the backflow prevention assembly is in proper operating condition at all times.

10. Who can test backflow preventers?: Backflow preventers must be tested by an Arkansas State Licensed Assembly Backflow Testing Technician. Known as ATT- #

11. Who can repair backflow preventers?: Backflow preventers must be repaired by an Arkansas State Licensed Assembly Backflow Repair Technician. Known as RT - # (In order to repair backflow preventers a technician must hold both licenses: Testing and Repair.)

12. What is a TRAC # ?: Our new online system allows the tester to enter the test results into the City of Fayetteville Water Department's compliance records using a TRAC# (Tester Remote Access Code #). The TRAC# gives testers information about the assembly(s) at a location -- such as size, make, model and serial number -- to simplify data input and maintain data integrity. It does not identify the water customer’s name or provide the customer’s contact information.

13. How much will a backflow test cost?: The cost of having a device tested varies among testers. The cost is also dependent on several factors, including the size of the device, where the device is located, the type of device, etc. You may want to call several Certified Testers to obtain quotes for your test.

14. What happens if my backflow test fails?: Any backflow preventer that fails during a periodic test shall be immediately repaired or replaced within 10 days. When repairs are necessary, the backflow preventer will need to be re-tested upon completion of the repair.

15. What happens if I don’t have my assembly tested?: Failure to conduct the yearly test will result in the discontinuation of water service.

16. Who can I contact for additional information on the City of Fayetteville’s Cross-Connection Control and Backflow Prevention Program?: Contact the City of Fayetteville’s Backflow Prevention Department by email or by phone at 479-575-8386.

▼
Budget & Information Management

Show All Answers

1. What is the City's total budget?

The total 2022 Adopted City budget is $190,846,000 and was adopted at the December 7, 2021 City Council meeting. State law requires municipalities’ budgets to be on a calendar year (January - December).

The total 2023 Adopted City budget is $216,748,000 and was adopted at the November 15, 2022 City Council meeting. State law requires municipalities’ budgets to be on a calendar year (January - December).

Annual Budget & Work Program Archives

2. What is a City budget?: One of the most important documents of any municipality is the annual city budget. It establishes how public funding will be spent and outlines the spending priorities for the future calendar year. Costs for everyday services such as trash pick-up, police patrol, fire response, water services, street repair and parks and recreation programs are itemized in the budget.

3. How is the City's budget developed?: The City’s fiscal year is the same as the calendar year and runs from January 1 through December 31. State law requires, under either mayoral or city manager form of government, that the annual proposed budget be presented to the City Council by December 1 of the current year, and requires that the City Council approve a budget by February 1 of the budget year. These requirements drive the deadlines and timelines for the operating budget process. View the budgeting process.

4. What are "funds" and why does the City have them?: The City receives revenues from many different sources. Most of them have restrictions on how they can be used. For example, money from the Federal Government (Community Development Block Grant or CDBG funds) must be used in low and moderate census track areas. Monies received through sewer fees must be used to operate and maintain the City’s sewer system. The General Fund is supported by taxes and fees and generally has no restrictions on their use.

5. What is the General Fund portion of the City's budget?

The total 2022 General Fund budget is $56,085,000. This fund is supported by taxes and fees.

The total 2023 General Fund budget is $64,844,000. This fund is supported by taxes and fees.

6. What is an Enterprise Fund?: An Enterprise Fund is a government facility or service that is self supporting through the fees associated with operating that particular service. The City currently has three Enterprise Funds (e.g., Water & Sewer Fund, Recycling & Trash Collection Fund and the Airport Fund).

7. What is the difference between a department, a division and a program in the City's budget?: Departments are the major organizational sub-divisions. They have a broad overall purpose. Divisions are the major operational areas of the City. Each division is assigned to one of the City’s departments according to the type of activity it performs. Programs are operating units within the division. Each program represents a specific type of activity within its division aimed at providing a service for which the City is responsible. For example, one program in the Transportation Division is Street Maintenance which resides in the Transportation Services Department. Based on staff’s assessment of costs and needs, the desires of citizens and the priorities of the City Council, the Transportation Division is budgeted a set amount of money to accomplish street maintenance.

8. What is a property tax? What is the City's current property tax rate for operations?: Property tax is computed from the assessed valuation of land and improvements on real property. The City’s current property tax rate for operations is 2.3 mils or $0.23 per $100 of assessed valuation. This tax is budgeted in the City’s General Fund.

9. How much does the average citizen pay based on the above tax rate?: Washington County has set the assessed value of a residential property at 20% of its fair market value. The City’s tax levy is taken times this assessed valuation. For example, an individual who owns a home with an actual value of $160,000 would pay the following to the City:
$160,000 x 20% = $32,000 assessed valuation
$32,000 divided by $100 = $320 x $0.23 = $73.60

10. What is the total sales tax rate in Fayetteville?: The total sales tax rate in Fayetteville is 9.75%.
Sales Tax Rates

11. What is the total number of City positions?

The total number of authorized full-time equivalent (FTE) positions in the City for 2022 is 859.80. Some positions are required to work less than the standard number of working hours and days; therefore, the total number of positions in the City may not be a whole number.

The total number of authorized full-time equivalent (FTE) positions in the City for 2023 is 905.00. Some positions are required to work less than the standard number of working hours and days; therefore, the total number of positions in the City may not be a whole number.

12. What is a full-time equivalent position (FTE)?: An FTE refers to one or more employees working 40 hours per week or 2,080 hours per year. For example, a part-time employee working 20 hours per week would be considered a 0.5 FTE.

13. What is the CIP (Capital Improvements Plan)?: The CIP examines the infrastructure and capital needs of the City for the next five years. The CIP may be reviewed and updated on an annual basis to reflect the changing needs of the community and changes in available monies for financing capital projects. The City’s philosophy concerning the use of the CIP is that it should be considered as a financial planning tool that lists the City’s capital improvements projects, places the projects in a priority order, and schedules the project for funding and implementation.

14. What is the difference between the capital budget and the operating budget?: The capital budget, or capital improvements plan, is an appropriation of bonds or operating revenue for improvements to city facilities that may include buildings, parks, streets, trails and water and sewer lines. The operating budget covers the costs of the City’s day-to-day operations, such as employee salaries, supplies, and contracts.

15. What are the responsibilities of the Budget & Information Management Division of the Finance & Internal Services Department?: The Budget & Information Management Division of the Finance & Internal Services Department is primarily responsible for the development and preparation of the City of Fayetteville’s annual operating budget and Capital Improvements Plan budget. In addition, staff provides analysis and recommendations regarding fiscal and operational issues to the Mayor’s Office, the City Council, and the City’s operating departments.

16. How do I get involved in the budget process?: The City Council holds public hearings on the City’s proposed budget during November and December.
City Council Agendas

17. What is the population of Fayetteville?: The population for Fayetteville, Arkansas is 93,949 based on 2020 U. S. Census data (as of April 1, 2020).
Research Information

18. What is the largest source of revenue for the City?

The largest source of revenue for the City is sales tax. The total amount of sales taxes budgeted for the 2022 budget year is $77.65 million (40.7% of the budget). Sales tax revenue primarily consists of City and County Sales Tax, Alcoholic Beverage Tax and the Hotel / Motel Restaurant (HMR) Tax.

The largest source of revenue for the City is sales tax. The total amount of sales taxes budgeted for the 2023 budget year is $89.5 million (41.4% of the budget). Sales tax revenue primarily consists of City and County Sales Tax, Alcoholic Beverage Tax and the Hotel / Motel Restaurant (HMR) Tax.

19. How do I get a copy of the city budget?: You may view the city budget online through the Budget & Information Management Division.
Annual Budget and Work Program Archives

▼
Building Safety

Show All Answers

1. When is a permit needed?: Any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.

2. When do I not need a permit?: There are items that are exempt from permits such as painting, playground equipment and flooring. For clarification please call building safety at 479-575-8233 and ask an inspector.

3. Who can apply for a permit?: Any property owner or authorized agent of the owner may apply for the permit.

4. Do I need a permit to build a deck?: This depends on the size and location of the structure. Please call building safety at 479-575-8233 and ask an inspector.

5. Do I need a permit for an engineered or pre-fabricated structure?: This depends on the size and location of the structure. Please call building safety at 479-575-8233 and ask an inspector.

6. What is the purpose of building safety?: The purpose of building safety is to establish the minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare by accurately and consistently administering building regulations as identified by the code.

7. What does a permit cost?: On buildings, structures, electrical, gas, mechanical, and plumbing systems or alterations requiring a permit, a fee for each permit shall be paid as required, in accordance with the schedule as established by the applicable governing body.

8. Why do I need a permit to work on my own house?: The record of change to a house is documented by the permit and recorded with the City of Fayetteville and Washington County. Work completed without a permit may depreciate the value of the house.

9. Are consultations available at the job site?: A consultation inspection is available for a minimal fee providing onsite assessment of a building situation. This inspection may prevent unforeseen construction costs and the feasibility of a proposed building project.

10. What are the different types of permits?: The basic permit types are building, plumbing, electric, HVAC (heating, ventilating, and air conditioning) and demolition.

11. What do I do if it is an emergency repair?: Where equipment replacements and repairs must be performed in an emergency situation, the permit application shall be submitted within the next working business day to the building official.

12. Are all inspectors certified and licensed by the state and nationally?: Inspectors for the City of Fayetteville are certified and licensed by the State of Arkansas and the International Code Council.

13. When are plans needed?: Plans are needed for any and all changes to the original structure that may affect the structural, electrical, plumbing or mechanical aspect of the building.

14. If I use a licensed contractor, electrician, plumber, HVAC (heating, ventilating, and air conditioning) technician or tradesman, do I still need a permit?: Yes, if the scope of work requires a permit, one must be obtained regardless of who is doing the actual work.

15. What if a remodel reveals work that requires a permit after the project has started?: If additional items are revealed after work is started, the permit should be amended and the plans for the work should be modified accordingly to create an accurate record of the work performed.

16. Can a homeowner be the general contractor on his/her own home?: Yes, a homeowner can be the general contractor with the understanding that all rules and regulations set forth by the City of Fayetteville and the State of Arkansas according to the building codes are to be followed and that the homeowner is ultimately responsible for the work that is done.

17. As a homeowner can I do the work of the electrician, plumber or HVAC (heating, ventilating, and air conditioning) technician on my property?: With the proper permits a homeowner can do his/her own work in these areas if the home is his/her primary residence.

18. Can I, as the homeowner, apply for the permits and hire my own subcontractors?: This practice is strongly discouraged as the signature on the application and permit indicates the person or company responsible for the work and its meeting the intent of the code.

19. What is the dollar amount on a residential remodel that requires a contractor to be licensed?: There is no regulation on being licensed to be in charge of a remodel. However, the subcontractors for the electrical, plumbing, gas and HVAC (heating, ventilating, and air conditioning) work must be licensed and obtain the proper and necessary permits.

20. I am building a new home. Must my contractor be licensed?: Yes, any new construction with a value of more than $20,000 must be done by a licensed contractor.

21. How long is a permit valid?: Permits are valid for 180 days (6 months) as long as work is receiving inspections. A permit shall become invalid if the proposed work is not commenced within 180 days after its issuance. A permit will also become invalid if the authorized work is suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days after the work commences. Extensions to the initial 180 days shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated. The building official is authorized to grant, in writing, 1 or more extensions for periods of not more than 180 days each.

22. How many homes can a homeowner build?: A homeowner can build 1 home a year for his/her primary use without a license.

23. What do I do if my permit expires?: Please contact building safety at 479-575-8233 for an extension.

24. I have received a letter from the prosecutor about a permit. What do I do?: Please contact the City of Fayetteville Prosecutor's Office at 479-575-8377.

25. Where do I find the current codes for the City of Fayetteville?: The City of Fayetteville has several current city codes that can be found in our full listing. City Code Listing

26. Since the cost of the plumbing, electrical and HVAC is included in the valuation of my building permit, do I still need separate permits for these?: Yes, separate permits are required for these by ordinance. By filling out the application for these permits we will have a better grasp of what is happening on these permits and projects and know what needs to be inspected.

27. I will be replacing my bedroom windows. Will the new ones have to meet code?: They must meet the current energy code.

28. I need a new roof. Will I need a permit?: Based on the manufactured specs you are limited to 3 sets of shingles. If you are replacing any or part of the decking you will need a permit.

29. Where do I find the "call before you dig" number?: You can find this number in the telephone book under "How to Reach Us." Before you dig or drill on your property, call to avoid damage to your telephone and other underground lines. That number is 1-800-482-8998. A 48-hour notice is required by state law.

30. Do I need a permit to repair a leak in my water yard line?: Yes, a permit is required when any type work is done that affects the city water supply.

31. I'm going to be adding an irrigation line to my existing water line. Do I need a permit?: Yes, we want to ensure that there is a duel check or a reduced pressure zone (RPZ) connected to the irrigation line with a cut-off value to ensure that nothing can be siphoned into the city water system.

32. Do I need a permit to repair a sewer yard line?: Yes, we want to ensure that the flow of sewer waste is such that there are no problems in the future.

33. A siding company will be putting siding on my home. Do I need a permit?: If structure elements are uncovered and found to be unsound or otherwise structurally deficient, then a permit is needed and such elements shall be made to conform to the requirements for new structures.

34. I'm adding an island in my kitchen. When do I need a permit?: If tearing down or adding any structural walls a building permit will be needed. If electric or plumbing will be added to a new area these permits will be needed also.

35. I will be painting, adding hardwood floors and tile to some areas of my house. Do I need a permit?: No, you do not need a permit for this type of work.

▼
Business License Program

Show All Answers

1. Are landlords required to have a business license?: Yes. Any individual landlord who rents/leases out three(3) or more residential single family dwelling units(i.e. A Duplex = 2 dwelling units), or any(1 or more) commercial, industrial or institutional property is required to obtain a business license.

2. Are churches and other religious institutions required to obtain a business license?: No.
However, if the religious institution performs a function that requires state licensing, or that generates revenue upon which state sales or use taxes must be paid (i.e. daycare, bookstore, etc.) a business license must be obtained.

3. I run my business from my home. Do I need a license?: Yes.
If the home your are operating from is located within the incorporated city limits of Fayetteville a business license is required.

4. I am a minor, do I need a business license?: No.
An individual under eighteen years of age is not required to obtain a business license.

5. Do I need a business license if I have been contracted for a specific job in Fayetteville but my business is located out of town/state?: No.
However, you would need a business license if your company will have an office building within the city limits of Fayetteville, or will be operating out of a home (home-based business) and the home is located within the city limits of Fayetteville.

6. Do non-profits require a business license?: Yes.
All non-profits must obtain a business license. However, religious institutions that do not generate income from business sources (i.e. daycare, bookstore, etc.) are exempt.

▼
City Attorney

Show All Answers

1. What are the differing governmental powers of the Mayor versus the City Council?: Please see the attached memo from City Attorney: Powers of the Mayor and City Council

2. How are ordinances and resolutions placed upon the City Council Agenda for consideration at a City Council meeting?: Please see the attached memo from City Attorney: Setting the City Council Agenda

3. How many votes of the City Council members are needed to pass an ordinance or resolution?: Please see the attached memo from City Attorney: Votes needed to pass an ordinance or resolution

4. What may the City Council consider when deciding whether or not to rezone property?: Please see the attached memo from the City Attorney: Rezoning Issues

▼
City Clerk

Show All Answers

1. When and where are the City Council meetings?: The City Council meets at 5:30 p.m. on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month in Room 219 of the City Administration Building located at 113 W Mountain Street. When a holiday or general election occurs on any such Tuesday, the regular meeting shall be held on the following Thursday at the same hour unless otherwise provided for by motion.

The City Council meeting is live streamed and also recorded. Instructions for joining a meeting can be found on the Zoom Meetings Information page.

2. How do I obtain a copy of the City Council Agenda?

A copy of the upcoming City Council Tentative and Final Agenda can be obtained through the City’s website at the Upcoming Meeting Agendas page. If you would like to obtain an agenda for a past meeting from the archives the agenda can be found here: Past Meeting Agendas and Minutes.

*Please remember that public comment is not accepted during the Agenda Session. If you would like to provide public comment on an upcoming agenda item, you can do so by sending an email to this address: agendaitemcomment@fayetteville-ar.gov

3. May I address the City Council during a City Council Meeting?: If you wish to address a City Council agenda item you may do so after the Mayor calls for public comment during the City Council meeting.

The Rules of Order and Procedure can be found within the Rules of Order and Procedure of the Fayetteville City Council (PDF) document. Please read these rules before providing public comment during a meeting.

4. Are City Council meetings televised?: City Council meetings are televised live and rebroadcasted at various times on the Government Channel (Cox Channel 216 through local cable, AT&T U-verse Channel 99, and streaming live on the City's YouTube channel. Videos of past meetings may be viewed on demand in our archive.

5. How can I place an item on the City Council Agenda?: To request an item to be placed on the City Council agenda you must contact a Council Member or the Mayor. Upon full review the item may be placed on the agenda at the Council Member or Mayor's discretion.

▼
City Prosecutor

Show All Answers

1. What is the Fayetteville City Prosecutor's Office?: The City Prosecutor is a division of the City Attorney's Office. The City Attorney is Kit Williams and the City Prosecutor is Clinton (Casey) K. Jones.

2. What does the Prosecutor's Office do?: The City Prosecutor prosecutes all misdemeanors and hot checks and takes citizens' complaints for the City of Fayetteville.

3. What is the difference between the Washington County Prosecutor and the Fayetteville City Prosecutor?

Many people get confused because both offices are located in Fayetteville. The City of Fayetteville takes complaints and prosecutes misdemeanor cases that are committed within the Fayetteville city limits. For example, DWI #1 #2 or #3, hot checks under $1,000, shoplifting under $1,000, battery 3rd degree (domestic abuse), minor traffic citations and city ordinance violations.

The Washington County Prosecutor's office takes complaints and prosecutes on felony level cases. For example, homicide, DWI #4, hot checks over $1,000, shoplifting over $1,000 and misdemeanors which occur in Washington County. The county also prosecutes juveniles.

Washington County Prosecutor

4. I have been the victim of a crime, how can the Fayetteville Prosecutor's Office help me?: If a citizen feels they have been the victim of a crime, they may contact this office and our support staff will ask some questions, such as if the incident occurred in Fayetteville, if anyone was arrested, the age of the suspect, and if the incident is possibly a violation of the Arkansas Criminal Code or City Ordinance. Then the citizen is given an appointment to make a formal complaint.

The Prosecutor's Office takes complaints from citizens that include assault, battery (domestic abuse), theft, and barking dogs. This office has jurisdiction over all misdemeanors which occur within the city limits of Fayetteville.

5. I am the victim of a battery (domestic abuse) and my spouse / boyfriend / girlfriend has been arrested. What can I expect?: When a person is arrested by the Fayetteville Police Department for battery 3rd degree domestic abuse, he/she will be assigned an arraignment date with the District Judge. If the defendant enters a Not Guilty plea, then he/she will be assigned a trial date with the prosecutor. If the defendant pleads Guilty, the Judge will impose a fine, court costs and possible jail time.

Once the case has been assigned a trial date, the victim will receive a letter from this office notifying them of the trial date and requesting they contact this office. The victim will also be contacted by the Washington County Victim Assistance Program which can assist with support groups, Orders of Protection and victim reparations.

During the plea session of the court date, the prosecutor will speak with the defendant and victim and recommend fines, court costs and jail time. If a victim does not want to be in the same room with the defendant, this office will assist him/her. Battery 3rd degree domestic abuse is a class A misdemeanor, punishable up to a $1,000 fine and court costs and up to a year in jail. A second offense is a felony.

6. I need a restraining order. How do I get one?: A restraining order is called a Protective Order in Arkansas. You may be eligible for an Order of Protection if you believe you are in immediate danger of physical violence from a current or former household member.

To file a petition for Order Of Protection you will need to go to the Washington County Circuit Clerk's Office at 280 North College, Suite #302, Fayetteville, Arkansas. You are required to have your offender's correct date of birth to ensure proper service and enforcement. You will also be required to provide the Sheriff's Department with an address where your offender can be served. Deputies will not search for your offender beyond what information you provide.

7. I have a court date with the prosecutor what can I expect?: The 9 a.m. time on your trial date is a plea bargain session. The prosecutor talks to everyone there individually and attempts to settle the case. If a case does not settle in the morning, then it will be set for trial on another day.

8. Can I drop charges in a case for which I was the victim?: The prosecutor needs to know about this request, but if the prosecutor knows that a crime has taken place, usually he will not drop charges. Please call 479-575-8377 for an appointment to discuss your request with the prosecutor in person.

9. What is a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) and a DUI (Driving Under the Influence)?: You may be charged with a DWI if you drive while intoxicated or while you have a blood alcohol content of 0.08 or greater. You may be charged with a DUI if you are under 21 and drive while you have a blood alcohol content of at least 0.02 and less than 0.08. If you are under 21 and your blood alcohol is 0.08 or higher you will be charged with a DWI. DWI 1st through 3rd offenses are misdemeanors and DUI offenses are misdemeanors.

This office prosecutes all misdemeanor DWIs 1st offense through 3rd offense. If you receive a 4th DWI within 5 years the DWI is automatically a felony which will be prosecuted by the Washington County Prosecutor's Office.

10. How can I get my police report if I have a court date?: You can fill out a Freedom of Information (FOI) Request Form and turn it in to the City Prosecutor's Office. FOI Request Form (PDF)

▼
Code Compliance Program

Show All Answers

1. How do I register a complaint about a possible code violation?: A complaint may be registered by phone at 479-575-8237, by email at code_compliance@fayetteville-ar.gov or by submitting an online service request.

2. Does Code Compliance handle mold complaints?

Mold is not a violation of the City of Fayetteville city ordinances, or the 2021 IPMC. A Code Compliance Officer can inspect a dwelling for any underlying causal factors that may contribute to mold, such as leaking roofs or leaking plumbing that are code violations.

Does the city conduct any tests to determine if there is mold present in my home?

No. The City of Fayetteville does not test for mold. The city also does not administer any environmental or air quality assessments.

What do I do if I suspect mold growth?

If you suspect you have mold growth, inform your landlord before contacting code compliance. If your landlord is not properly responding or fails to address the cause of the mold, Code Compliance can inspect the dwelling for any underlying code violations, such as a leaking roof or a plumbing leak.

What if there is no code violation?

If a code violation does not exist, the resident may consider contacting an attorney. Code Compliance cannot provide assistance in a civil matter.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has information on mold including prevention tips and cleanup guidelines on their website at www.epa.gov/mold. You can also download a copy of the EPA's "A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home" brochure.

Additional Resources

Legal Aid of Arkansas

3. What do I do if I receive a violation notice?: The property owner should have the violation corrected within the time frame specified. If you need clarification on the violation and/or the time frame for correction please call 479-575-8237.

4. How does Code Compliance notify the property owner and/or occupant of a code violation?: Step 1. A door hanger identifying the violation is placed on the door of occupied lots.
Step 2. For both occupied and unoccupied lots, the property owner is sent a certified letter regarding the violation.

5. When is grass considered overgrown?: If grass or weeds are 8 inches or taller on an occupied lot or 18 inches or taller on a vacant lot, the property is considered overgrown.

6. What constitutes a junk and debris violation?: Junk is any item(s) that does not have outdoor use as its primary purpose. Debris is tree limbs and branches.

7. What is an inoperable vehicle?: Any vehicle that is not able to be driven on the street is considered inoperable.

8. What happens if I don't address the violation?: If the violation has not been addressed within the allotted time for correction, Code Compliance will come in to correct the violation and bill the property owner for the costs.

9. Who determines an unsafe structure?: The City of Fayetteville Chief Building Official makes this determination.

10. Does Code Compliance enforce codes on Washington County and University of Arkansas property?: No. A city entity cannot enforce codes on county and state lands.

11. How many code officers patrol the city?: There are four (4) Code Compliance Officers at the City of Fayetteville.

12. What does the Code Compliance Program do to educate citizens about codes and violations?

Code Compliance participates in a variety of community events and activities to educate citizens about codes and violations. This includes events such as the Fayetteville Farmer's Market, Razorbash, and Springfest.

A Code Compliance activity book is available at our offices.

Code Compliance is also available to do presentations to school groups, community groups and organizations. To request a presentation call 479-575-8237.

13. What is the mission statement of the Code Compliance Program?: A commitment to preserve and protect the overall safety and welfare of the residents of Fayetteville.

▼
Community Development

Show All Answers

1. What is the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and what is its purpose?: CDBG is a federal program that provides annual grants on a formula basis to entitled cities and counties to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing, a suitable living environment and by expanded economic opportunities, principally for persons of low and moderate income.

2. What is the CDBG grant amount the City gets each year?: The CDBG grant amount the City of Fayetteville receives varies every year. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) uses one of two established formulas to calculate the allocation amount for each entitlement grantee every year. These formulas take into consideration factors such as population, the number of people with incomes below the poverty level, housing overcrowding and age of housing.

3. Does the City have to apply for CDBG funds each year from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)?: No, the City of Fayetteville is an Entitlement Community and automatically receives a CDBG grant each year. However, the City is required by the Department of Housing and Urban Development to submit a consolidated plan every five years, and an Annual Action Plan to HUD in order to spend the funds.

4. What is an Entitlement Community under CDBG?

Entitlement Communities are:

Principal Cities of Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSA)
Other metropolitan cities with populations of at least 50,000
Qualified urban counties with populations of at least 200,000 (excluding the population of entitled cities)

5. How is the City's grant amount determined by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)?: The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) uses one of two established formulas to calculate the allocation amount for each entitlement grantee every year. These formulas take into consideration factors such as population, the number of people with incomes below the poverty level, housing overcrowding, and age of housing.

6. When is the grant amount announced?: The amount is announced between January and March of the current program year.

7. What activities are eligible for CDBG funding?

CDBG funds may be used for activities which include, but are not limited to:

Acquisition of real property
Relocation and demolition
Rehabilitation of residential and non-residential structures
Construction of public facilities and improvements, such as water and sewer facilities, streets, neighborhood centers, and the conversion of school buildings for eligible purposes
Public services, within certain limits
Activities relating to energy conservation and renewable energy resources
Provision of assistance to profit-motivated businesses to carry out economic development and job creation/retention activities

8. What activities are not eligible for CDBG funding?

Generally, the following types of activities are ineligible:

Acquisition, construction, or reconstruction of buildings for the general conduct of government
Political activities
Certain income payments
Construction of new housing by units of general local government

9. What is the Consolidated Plan?: The Consolidated Plan is the document the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires each entitlement agency to prepare in order to receive HUD funding. A typical Consolidated Plan is normally a 3-year or 5-year plan that identifies local needs in housing and community development and establishes local goals to accomplish utilizing HUD grant funds. The Consolidated Plan also identifies programs to be carried out and resources to be used as implementation strategies.

10. What is an Annual Action Plan?: The Annual Action Plan, also known as the Consolidated Plan Amendment, is prepared by entitlement communities for the program year. It outlines in more detail what activities will be carried out and how they will be funded. The programmed activities in the Action Plan should help achieve the community's long-term goals identified in the Consolidated Plan.

11. What is an Environmental Review and why is it required for a CDBG funded activity?: Generally speaking, any undertaking that receives federal funding is subject to an environmental review. The city, as the Grantee of the CDBG Program, has the sole responsibility to conduct required environmental reviews for activities that receive CDBG funds through the City's CDBG Program. Simply, an environmental review is required in order to ensure that the activity will not cause negative impact on the environment.

12. What is a grant agreement?: A grant agreement, also known as a subrecipient agreement, is a legal, binding agreement between the City as the Grantee and the the Subrecipient. US Department of Housing and Urban Development CDBG regulations (24 CFR 570.503) require that grantees have written agreements in effect for each Subrecipient before CDBG funds can be used.

13. What are the responsibilities of a CDBG Subrecipient?: "Playing by the Rules - A Handbook for CDBG Subrecipients on Administrative Systems" is an excellent training handbook published by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. It is extremely important for subrecipients to understand their responsibilities in order to carry out CDBG activities successfully.

It is also important for prospective applicants to understand these responsibilities so that they can realistically assess the burdens of accepting CDBG funds and their capabilities to shoulder these responsibilities.

14. Is there a time limit for a Subrecipient to spend CDBG funding?: The City of Fayetteville requires that approved funds should be committed by September 15th of the program year funds are awarded. This ensures that the City's CDBG funds are spent in a timely manner.

15. When can a subrecipient incur costs for an approved activity?: Under no circumstances should a subrecipient incur any cost to be paid with CDBG funds without receiving a formal letter to proceed from the City. The City needs to complete the required environmental review and, if required, receive approval for the release of funds before the City can issue the letter to proceed. Any cost incurred prior to completion of the required procedures will not be eligible for reimbursement from the City.

16. What is the purpose of Subrecipient Monitoring?: Subrecipient monitoring is a key part of the CDBG Program. The City bears the responsibility to ensure that its Subrecipients follow the federal regulations governing the use of CDBG funds in conducting CDBG funded activities and accomplishing the goals established by both parties in the Subrecipient Agreement. Monitoring also serves to ensure that Subrecipients fulfill their responsibilities throughout the course of the project implementation.

In addition, monitoring provides opportunities for both the City and its Subrecipients to identify issues that hinder the efforts to successfully accomplish the goals and address these issues in a timely manner. Monitoring is also commonly used by the Grantee to identify Subrecipient needs and provide technical assistance if necessary.

HUD requires the City to incorporate a monitoring plan in its Annual Action Plan as well as in its Consolidated Plan.

17. How is monitoring normally conducted?: Before the planned monitoring of a Subrecipient, City staff contacts the Subrecipient to outline the time of the monitoring, what needs to be reviewed and the goal of the monitoring. After the monitoring, staff will normally summarize the monitoring results and send a follow-up letter to the Subrecipient to clearly identify any issues and offer recommendations or technical assistance for the Subrecipient to address these issues.

▼
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)

Show All Answers

1. What is the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and what is its purpose?: CDBG is a federal program that provides annual grants on a formula basis to entitled cities and counties to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing, a suitable living environment and by expanded economic opportunities, principally for persons of low and moderate income.

2. What is the CDBG grant amount the city gets each year?: The CDBG grant amount the City of Fayetteville receives varies every year. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) uses 1 of 2 established formulas to calculate the allocation amount for each entitlement grantee every year. These formulas take into consideration factors such as population, the number of people with incomes below the poverty level, housing overcrowding and age of housing.

3. Does the city have to apply for CDBG funds each year from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)?: No. The City of Fayetteville is an Entitlement Community and automatically receives a CDBG grant each year. However, the city is required by the Department of Housing and Urban Development to submit a Consolidated Plan every 5 years, and an Annual Action Plan to HUD in order to spend the funds.

4. What is an Entitlement Community under CDBG?: Entitlement Communities are: Principal cities of Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSA), other metropolitan cities with populations of at least 50,000, and qualified urban counties with populations of at least 200,000 (excluding the population of entitled cities).

5. How is the city's grant amount determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)?: The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) uses 1 of 2 established formulas to calculate the allocation amount for each entitlement grantee every year. These formulas take into consideration factors such as population, the number of people with incomes below the poverty level, housing overcrowding and age of housing.

6. When is the grant amount announced?: Between January and March of the current program year.

7. What activities are eligible for CDBG funding?: CDBG funds may be used for activities which include, but are not limited to: acquisition of real property; relocation and demolition; rehabilitation of residential and non-residential structures; construction of public facilities and improvements, such as water and sewer facilities, streets, neighborhood centers, and the conversion of school buildings for eligible purposes; public services, within certain limits; activities relating to energy conservation and renewable energy resources; and provision of assistance to profit-motivated businesses to carry out economic development and job creation / retention activities.

8. Who can apply for Fayetteville CDBG funds?: Please refer to question 7.

9. Are there strings attached to the CDBG funds?: Definitely. Please view the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's sub-recipient training manual, Playing by the Rules, for more information. You are strongly encouraged to review this information to evaluate your organization's capability to manage complying with the CDBG funding rules. Playing by the Rules Training Manual (PDF)

10. What other factors should an applicant consider before submitting an application for funding?: In addition to the above information, the following should be considered:

1) Is the activity you are proposing meeting the needs of the community as identified in the Consolidated Plan?

2) Is the activity you are proposing meeting a goal or objective as established in the Consolidated Plan?

3) What is the timing and urgency of the activity?

4) Are your clients / beneficiaries willing to provide personal information as required by HUD in order to receive CDBG benefit?

11. Is there a checklist for prospective applicants to use?: No. A checklist does not currently exist.

12. Can a private individual apply for CDBG funds?: No. However, individuals eligible under U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development guidelines may apply for financial assistance through programs the city offers such as the Housing Rehabilitation Program, Transportation Program and Redevelopment Program or from nonprofit organizations which receive CDBG funds through the City of Fayetteville CDBG Program.

13. What is the deadline for submitting an application for CDBG funds?: CDBG grant applications are accepted and selected for funding annually. The application submission deadline is determined yearly. Normally, the deadline is 5 p.m. on the last day of August, but this date is subject to change.

14. Who determines the allocation of CDBG funds?: The 5 member Grant Ranking Committee reviews and evaluates the applications and ranks them for funding. A recommendation for the full council to adopt the allocation plan by ordinance is submitted by the Community Services Division. The plan is submitted to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for approval before CDBG funds may be used.

15. What is the Consolidated Plan?: The Consolidated Plan is the document the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires each entitlement agency to prepare in order to receive HUD funding. A typical Consolidated Plan is normally a 3 year or 5-year plan that identifies local needs in housing and community development and establishes local goals to accomplish utilizing HUD grant funds. The Consolidated Plan also identifies programs to be carried out and resources to be used as implementation strategies.

16. What is an Annual Action Plan?: The Annual Action Plan, also known as the Consolidated Plan Amendment, is prepared by entitlement communities for the program year; it outlines in more detail what activities will be carried out and how they will be funded. The programmed activities in the Action Plan should help achieve the community's long-term goals identified in the Consolidated Plan.

17. What is an environmental review and why is it required for a CDBG funded activity?: Generally speaking, any undertaking that receives federal funding is subject to an environmental review. The city, as the Grantee of the CDBG Program, has the sole responsibility to conduct required environmental reviews for activities that receive CDBG funds through the city's CDBG Program. Simply, an environmental review is required in order to ensure that the activity will not cause negative impact on the environment.

18. What is a grant agreement?: A grant agreement, also known as a sub-recipient agreement, is a legal, binding agreement between the city as the Grantee and the the sub-recipient. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development CDBG regulations (24 CFR 570.503) require that grantees have written agreements in effect for each sub-recipient before CDBG funds can be used.

19. What are the responsibilities of a CDBG sub-recipient?: Playing by the Rules - A Handbook for CDBG Sub-recipients on Administrative Systems, is an excellent training handbook published by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. It is extremely important for sub-recipients to understand their responsibilities in order to carry out CDBG activities successfully. It is also important for prospective applicants to understand these responsibilities so that they can realistically assess the burdens of accepting CDBG funds and their capabilities to shoulder these responsibilities.

20. Is there a time limit for a sub-recipient to spend CDBG funding?: The City of Fayetteville requires that approved funds should be committed by September 15th of the program year funds are awarded. This ensures that the city's CDBG funds are spent in a timely manner.

21. When can a sub-recipient incur costs for an approved activity?: Under no circumstances should a sub-recipient incur any cost to be paid with CDBG funds without receiving a formal letter to proceed from the city. The city needs to complete the required environmental review and, if required, receive approval for the release of funds before the city can issue the letter to proceed. Any cost incurred prior to completion of the required procedures will not be eligible for reimbursement from the city.

22. What is the purpose of sub-recipient monitoring?: Sub-recipient monitoring is a key part of the CDBG Program. The city bears the responsibility to ensure that its sub-recipients follow the federal regulations governing the use of CDBG funds in conducting CDBG funded activities and accomplishing the goals established by both parties in the sub-recipient agreement. Monitoring also serves to ensure that sub-recipients fulfill their responsibilities throughout the course of the project implementation.

In addition, monitoring provides opportunities for both the city and its sub-recipients to identify issues that hinder the efforts to successfully accomplish the goals and address these issues in a timely manner. Monitoring is also commonly used by the grantee to identify sub-recipient needs and provide technical assistance if necessary.

HUD requires the city to incorporate a monitoring plan in its Annual Action Plan as well as in its Consolidated Plan.

23. How is monitoring normally conducted?: Before the planned monitoring of a sub-recipient, city staff contacts the sub-recipient to outline the time of the monitoring, what needs to be reviewed and the goal of the monitoring. After the monitoring, staff will normally summarize the monitoring results and send a follow-up letter to the sub-recipient to clearly identify any issues and offer recommendations or technical assistance for the sub-recipient to address these issues.

24. Who is a beneficiary?: The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development does not have an official definition, however, in general, a beneficiary is an individual, a household or an organization that the use of CDBG funds benefits.

25. Does a beneficiary have any responsibilities?: Beneficiary responsibilities are varied dependent on the nature of the program from which they receive benefits. Basically, beneficiaries are required to provide certain personal information for certain programs and the information must be provided accurately. CDBG funded programs normally outline beneficiary responsibilities.

26. What are the current income limits and what do they mean?: The Community Development Block Grant Program is essentially a federal program designed to benefit low-to-moderate income (LMI) persons and families. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development establishes, as required by law, income limits for the program year. Low-income individuals or households mean that their household incomes are below 50% of the median income for the entire metropolitan area. Moderate income individuals and households are those that have incomes above 50%, but below 80%.

27. What is the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER)?: The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires every grantee to submit a CAPER within 90 days after the end of each program year. The CAPER is a report on progress made in implementing the community's Consolidated Plan, through the proposed actions identified in the 1-year Action Plan.

HUD requires the CAPER to include 3 key parts:

1) Narrative of accomplishments in relation to goals and objectives identified in the 1-year Action Plan

2) Statistical and Financial information about individual activities undertaken during the program year

3) Information on expenditures, caps and program income

The primary goal of the CAPER is for the grantee, as well as HUD, to evaluate performance against the established goals and objectives.

28. How does the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) measure the effectiveness of the City's CDBG Program?: The most common tools used are grantee monitoring, the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER), and the HUD Timeliness Index.

29. What is a Timeliness Index and what does it mean?: The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development will consider an entitlement recipient to be failing to carry out its CDBG activities in a timely manner if 60 days prior to the end of the grantees current program year, the amount of the entitlement grant funds available to the recipient, but not dispersed by the U.S. Treasury, is more than 1.5 times the entitlement grant for its current program year.

30. What impact will it have on the city's CDBG Program if the city goes over the timeliness index limit?: The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will require the city to develop a Workout Program to better facilitate the program and manage progress.

If the city fails to bring the index below 1.5 within a specified time period, HUD reserves the right to reduce the city's grant amount in future years. If the city's grant is reduced, not only will the CDBG Program suffer, but the sub-recipients will suffer as well.

31. What type of income should I include in my application?: All incomes from all members of the household from all sources must be included. Certain documentation is required at the time of the application, depending upon the status of employment for all household members. You may be asked to provide additional documentation or information if deemed necessary at the time your application is being processed.

32. Who should be included as household members?: It is important to note that CDBG uses household income instead of family income when determining eligibility based on income. A family includes all members of a household living together who are blood related or related by marriage or adoption, whereas a household includes all persons living together regardless of their relationship. When determining an applicant income level, all the incomes from all persons living together regardless of their relationship must be included.

33. Who should I contact if I have further questions?: The Community Services Division at 479-575-8260 .

▼
Community Gardens

Show All Answers

1. What is a community garden all about?: Community gardening is about individuals and families of diverse backgrounds gardening together. Everyone is welcome! Community gardens include people of diverse cultures and languages, with a range of incomes, and various levels of gardening experience.

Each individual, family, and organization has a plot to tend and opportunities to volunteer to keep the garden running smoothly.

2. What size are the plots and how much do they cost?

Walker Park Community Garden: $20 to $40 for plots anywhere from 50 to 100 square feet.

Jefferson Community Garden: $20 to $30 for plots ranging from 30 to 60 square feet..

3. How many plots do I get?: Because of limited space, rental is limited to 200 square feet of plot or plots per individual, family or organization.

4. What do I get when I rent a plot?: A compost-enriched garden plot for 1 full year, a Gardener's Handbook, use of shared common tools, access to water, a supportive environment for learning about gardening and meeting other gardeners.

5. What extra things can I purchase with my garden plot?: During Spring Registration straw for mulching your plot can be ordered for an additional reasonable cost.

6. How can I conserve water?: Do not use overhead sprinklers, they are an inefficient waste of water. Never leave a hose on unattended! Water slowly; this avoids run-off by allowing the soil to absorb water. Create small "wells" around each plant or along the row; this focuses the water on the root area. While waiting to allow water to slowly soak in, tidy up your plot and adjoining path. Water is a finite resource - use it wisely.

7. How do I control water pressure and prevent the hose from bursting?: Preserve the hose and control water pressure by adjusting the handle at the faucet. Do not turn off water from a hose-end valve with the faucet on. It is not necessary to fully open the faucet. Open the faucet slowly, approximately half way.

If any part of the hose breaks while you are using it, it is your responsibility to repair it immediately. Hose repair kits are available through your garden leaders or they are stored in a designated area.

8. What do I have to do to stay in good standing with the garden?: Follow the Gardener Guidelines, be courteous and communicate. Maintain and weed your plot and adjacent walkways, harvest regularly, conserve water and respect fellow gardeners and their plots.

9. What if I am unable to maintain or harvest my plot or plots?: Notify a Garden Leader immediately. If you need to relinquish your plot, it will be reassigned. If you need temporary assistance, it will be provided.

Please do not allow vegetables to rot on the vine - someone could use the food, plus, rotting vegetables are a potential source of plant disease.

10. What about composting at the garden?: If a compost area is established at your garden, follow these guidelines: Do not add diseased plants, Bermuda grass, weed seed, junk food or meats.

11. What do I do with garden debris that can’t be added to the compost?: There is an area dedicated in or near the garden where materials that cannot be composted are piled for city crews to haul off.

12. Who do I contact for gardening advice or any garden issues?: The Garden Coordinator or a Garden Leader can assist with questions, suggest resources or team you up with a more experienced gardener. They can also help solve any issues that may arise. Contact information is provided in the Gardener's Handbook.

▼
District Court

Show All Answers

1. What are the different types of hearings?: The first type is an arraignment: your Constitutional right, reading of the charges and entering a plea. The second type of hearing is a trial: the examination of evidence and the decisions of the issues of law by a judge to determine guilt or innocence. Warning: If you fail to appear in Court as you have promised on any misdemeanor, you may be arrested and punished by one (1) year in jail and / or a $1,000 fine, regardless of the disposition of the original charge.

2. What must I do when I come to the court as specified by my citation, letter, cash bail or bond receipt?: Look for your name and the time your case will be heard. If you are unable to find your name, go to the clerk's window.

3. How do I identify myself at the clerk's window?: Do not use a nickname or alias, use the same spelling as listed on your paperwork. If the name on the paperwork is incorrect, please advise the Court.

4. What must I bring to Court?: You must bring any relevant paperwork having to do with your case, such as a copy of your citation and your appearance letter. You must also bring your jail release papers, bond receipt, cash bail receipts as well as your documents of proof of compliance of judicial order and sentence.

Do not forget to bring money for fines and fees.

▼
District Court - Small Claims

Show All Answers

1. Who can use the Small Claims Court?: Any person, corporation with three or less stockholders, partnership or other organization can file or be filed against in Small Claims Court. To find out if a corporation has three or more stockholders, contact the corporation. For the agent of service of a corporation, contact the Arkansas Secretary of State's Office, Corporation Division.

2. Do I need a lawyer in Small Claims Court?: No. Lawyers are not allowed in Small Claims Court. If either side should retain a lawyer, the case is automatically transferred to the District Court's Civil Division.

3. How do I start a Small Claims action?: If you are filing a Small Claims action, you are called the plaintiff. If you have been sued, you are called the defendant. To start an action, you must fill out a Complaint Form, which you can acquire at the District Court. This form explains whom you are suing, for how much money, and why you are claiming the money. You must bring the completed form to the Court Clerk's office or fill it out while at the Court. The form must include the defendant's complete address, the amount you are seeking, and a brief statement of why the amount is owed. The defendant will be sent a copy of your complaint by certified mail, unless you request service by the Sheriff's Office or private process server. It is your responsibility to provide the Court with a good address with which to obtain service.

4. How long may I wait before filing my Small Claim?: The length of time you have to file depends upon the type of claim you are bringing. If a written agreement has been broken or breached, you have five years after the date it was broken to file your claim. If your claim pertains to a verbal agreement or contract, rent, or injury to goods, then you have three years to file your claim.

5. What if the defendant does not file a written answer within 30 days?: If an answer is not filed within 30 days, your case is eligible for a default judgment. A default hearing will be held, and at that time, the Judge will enter the judgment in your favor, as long as you have the necessary proof to submit your claim. If for any reason service is not made upon the defendant, please contact the clerk's office for alternative service. The defendant must then be served within 120 days or your case may be dismissed.

6. What should I do to get ready for trial?: If you are the plaintiff, you should collect any papers, documents, or pictures which relate to the case, and bring them with you when you go to trial. Bring receipts, bills and estimates to show the Judge to help you prove your claim. The Court will issue a subpoena to require the attendance of anyone you want to call as a witness. As the clerk for the fees for this. If you are the defendant, you should follow the above procedure for the plaintiff. If you do not wish to contest the plaintiff's claim, you may settle with the plaintiff before your trial date and have the plaintiff dismiss the action so that no judgment may be awarded by default. You may answer the claim by denying that you owe the money, and you may file an Answer and Counterclaim form if you feel that the plaintiff may owe you money. Your Answer and Counterclaim form must be filed with the court within 30 days of service.

▼
Downtown Square Area Parking

Show All Answers

1. I work downtown. Where can I park and not get tickets?: The Parking Management office offers several parking programs for the employees in and around the Downtown Square. Permits can be purchased for use in the surrounding parks lots. Parking cards are used for both the Town Center Deck and the second level of the Municipal Parking Deck. Please call the Parking Management office at 479-575-8280 for availability and pricing.

2. What do I do if the meter isn't registering time?: If you park at a meter that does not register time when a coin is inserted, you may do one of two things. If you are can contact the Parking Management Office, (479-575-8280), while you are still at the meter, a Parking Ambassador or the Field Supervisor will be sent to assist you. If that is not possible, you must park at a different, operational meter. Otherwise, an expired meter ticket will be issued.

3. What are the time limits for the meters?

Several on-street meters near the Square are limited to a maximum of two hours to encourage turnover for customers and visitors.

The on-street meters a few blocks off of the Square have no time limits and are ideal for longer stays. The surface parking lots and public parking decks do not have time limits.

Information about rates and time limits is displayed on the meter screen.

4. I'm only going to be parked for a few minutes. Can I park for free?

You may park on-street for up to 15 minutes without paying the rate:

The 2-hour on-street meters are equipped with sensors that will automatically detect your arrival time so that you may park for up to 15 minutes without having to interact with the meter.
The long-term on-street meters do not have sensors but you can start your free 15 minute sessions by pushing any button on the meter upon your arrival.
In the surface lots, simply enter your license plate at the pay station.

If your parking session is expected to last longer than 15 minutes, be sure to make payment accordingly.

5. What types of payment are accepted at the meters and pay stations?: Coin, credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, and Discover), NFC, and mobile app payments (via the ParkMobile app or a mobile web browser) are accepted at all of the meters and pay stations.

▼
Employee Parking Discount

Show All Answers

1. How do I apply for the employee discount on parking rates?: Your employer must submit a list of employee names and whether they are full-time or part-time to the Parking Office. You as an employee must then mail or email a copy of your paystub to the Parking Office that shows your name, employer’s name, number of hours worked and time period worked. Your paystub must be dated within 16 days of submittal.

2. How do employees who do not have access to a computer or email receive their discount code?: Employees may pick up their discount code by stopping by the Parking Management Office located at 416 W Spring Street in the Spring Street Parking Deck.

3. What parking areas are available to employees at the discounted rate?: All on street pay spaces in the Entertainment District are available to employees at the discounted rate except for those on Dickson Street, Watson Street, and St. Charles Avenue.

4. What times are the 90% employee discounts in effect?: The employee discount is in effect at all times, 24/7.

5. Are the employee discounts available in the parking lots?: No, the discounts are only available in the designated street spaces.

6. How do I receive and use my employee discount?: The Parking Management Office will verify your employment and send you an email with your discount code. This code can be used at any on street pay station to discount your parking fee. You can contact the Parking Management Office at 479-575-8280 or parking@fayetteville-ar.gov.

7. How many discount code uses do I get?: If you normally work 35 hours or more per week, your discount code will be available to use up to 22 times per calendar month. If you normally work less than 35 hours per week, your discount code will be valid for 18 uses per calendar month.

8. How often do I have to apply for my employee discount code?: Employees must submit a copy of their paystub to the Parking Management Office monthly, within 16 days or less prior to the end of the month to receive their discount code for the following month. A reminder to renew your discount code will be emailed one week prior to the first of the month.

9. Can I, as an employer, have all of the discount codes for my employees sent to my business email?: The preferred method is to issue each employee their discount code directly. Please contact the Parking Office if different accommodations need to be considered.

10. How do business owners apply for employee discount?: Business owners must submit their request in writing to the Parking Management Office that states the business that they own. Each owner will be granted a discount code. Up to two owners per business. This request may be submitted via email at parking@fayetteville-ar.gov or mailed to 113 W Mountain Street, Fayetteville, AR 72701.

▼
Engineering

Show All Answers

1. Where is the nearest survey monument?: The nearest survey monument can be found using this map:
Land Records Interactive Map

2. How do I convert a metric meter to the English foot?

There is some confusion surrounding the correct value to use when converting the English "foot" measurement to the metric "meter" measurement and vice versa. This confusion stems from the fact that there are two, though slightly different, conversion factors that may be used in this process.

Foot-Meter Conversion Factors:

Both values
• 0.304 800 609 6012
and
• 0.3048
are correct factors that can be used for converting feet to meters.

How is it possible to have two values for the same conversion? To gain an understanding of how this is possible, and why it is allowed to continue, it is necessary to take a brief look at the history of the metric system within the United States.

History

The metric system was developed during the French Revolution in the late 1700's. It was first promoted in the United States by Thomas Jefferson and in 1866 the US Congress officially recognized the metric system as a legal system of units. In 1893, the Office of Weights and Measures (now the National Bureau of Standards), fixed the value of the U.S. "yard" in terms of the meter as follows:
• 1 yard = 3600/3937 meter or 1 yard = 0.914 401 8288 meter
this relation is equivalent to:
• 1 foot = 12/39.37 meter or 1 foot = 0.304 800 609 6012 meter

Unfortunately, other nations used a slightly different conversion factor. To solve this deviation, a refinement was made in the definition of the yard to bring the US yard and the yard used in other countries into agreement. In 1959 the national standards laboratories of the English-speaking nations agreed to standardize the relation between the yard and the meter as follows:

• 1 yard = 0.9144 meter
• 1 foot = 0.3048 meter
• 1 inch = 25.4 millimeter

The new length of yard is shorter by exactly two parts in a million.

At the same time it was decided that any data in feet derived from and published as a result of geodetic surveys within the U.S. would remain with the old standards (1 foot = 12/39.37 meter) pending any further decisions. This foot measurement is called the U.S. Survey foot.

This then, is how we came to have two values for foot-meter conversions. One value, (1 foot = 12/39.37 meter), should be used when converting a measurement that is based on geodetic surveys. The other value, (1 foot = 0.3048 meter), should be used for any other conversions that are not related to geodetic data. Whichever value is used, it should be used consistently throughout that project.

▼
Engineering - Trails

Show All Answers

1. Do the trails have lighting?

Over 20 miles of the shared-use paved trails have energy efficient LED lighting installed, including all of the Razorback Greenway in Fayetteville.

These lights are operated on an astronomical timer so they come on automatically according to the astronomical time that it gets dark and then they turn off in the morning once the sun comes up.

2. Are electric powered bicycles and scooters allowed on the trails?

Yes, Electric bicycles (E-Bikes), electric scooters (E-Scooters), and all forms of motorized wheelchairs are permitted on trails.

Keep in mind that the 15 MPH speed limit applies to all forms of mobility devices.

All gas powered motorized vehicles and golf carts are explicitly are strictly prohibited.

3. How many miles of trails are in Fayetteville?

51.5 Miles of shared-use paved trails

56 Miles of soft surface natural surface trails

107.5 Miles of Trails in Fayetteville

4. What is the speed limit on the paved trails?: 15 miles per hour maximum

5. How many miles of new paved trails are constructed each year?

The in-house trail construction program has averaged 2-3 miles of new paved trails each year.

In addition the Bond vote in 2019 will result in many more miles being built by contractors.

▼
Entertainment District Parking

Show All Answers

1. Is there any parking program for construction crews or others that do jobs in the Downtown Square and Dickson Street areas?: Yes, the Parking Management Office does have temporary construction permits that may be purchased. The cost is $2.50 per space per day in the Downtown Square area and $5.00 per space per day in the Dickson Street area. Contact the Parking Management Office at 479-575-8280 or parking@fayetteville-ar.gov.

2. How do service vehicles park in the residential area?: Company vehicles must use a resident guest pass. For an extended stay, vendors may apply for a temporary hang tag through the Parking Management Office. These will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

3. Are there any free parking spaces?: Yes, there are many free spaces at some of the local churches except on Sundays. Also, there are hundreds of free public parking spaces after 6:00 pm and on weekends in the Downtown Square area. There are over 700 free spaces on street and in the parking lots, most of which are within a few blocks of Dickson Street.

4. What happens if I leave my car overnight in the Entertainment District?: Paid parking rates are enforced from 2 p.m. until 2 a.m. Rates will not be charged until 2 p.m. the following day. So you will have until 2 p.m. to return to retrieve your vehicle before incurring anymore charges.

Please note that this does not apply to the privately owned parking lots.

5. If the pay station screen is black, is the pay station working?: Yes it is working. The pay stations have screen savers to conserve energy. Simply push any button on the front of the machine to light up the display and then follow the prompts.

6. What types of payment are accepted at the pay stations?: Cash, credit/debit cards (Visa, MC and Discover) and validations coupons are accepted at all of the pay stations. Please note: For cash payments, the pay stations DO NOT give change.

7. Can I pay by phone for a number space in the Entertainment District?: Yes, please refer to the ParkMobile section on the Entertainment District (Dickson St.) page for step-by-step instructions on how to pay for a number space via mobile phone.

8. Do motorcycle patrons pay for parking?: Yes, if they park their motorcycle in one of the designated motorcycle spaces, they only pay 50% of the parking rate. If they park their motorcycle in a regular parking space, they must pay the full parking rate.

9. Can we park more than one motorcycle in a regular sized parking space?: Yes, you must pay the full parking rate and all motorcycles must fit within the lines of the parking space.

10. If I park my motorcycle in a regular parking space with another motorized bicycle, how can I tell if the space has been paid?: You cannot tell what spaces have been paid, so you must ensure that there is time paid on your space. You can do this by either checking with the original parker or by paying for the space. If the time expires on the space, all vehicles within the space will be subject to a citation.

11. Do bicycle and scooter patrons pay for parking?: No, bicycles and scooters less than 70cc may park in the designated bicycle/scooter parking areas in the West Avenue parking lot, north of Dickson Street, for free.

12. What's going to happen during events like Bikes, Blues, and BBQ?: Parking fees may be waived during special events that are pre-approved by the mayor. Residential areas, however, will be off limits to parking for those that do not have a valid residential parking permit.

13. Do I have to pay if I am temporarily loading/unloading my vehicle?: No, vehicles loading and unloading are allowed 15 minutes to park and conduct business. They must turn on their vehicle emergency flashing lights and must be loading and / or unloading their vehicle.

▼
Fire Department

Show All Answers

1. How do I obtain a burn permit?: Permission may be obtained free of charge via this online burn permit request form.. Permission will only be valid on the date it is given, and all burning on any other dates will require renewed permission.
Apply for a burn permit.

2. What are the burn permit restrictions?: Burning is not permitted should it create a public nuisance. Rubber, tires, roofing, or any petroleum based substance shall not be burned. There is to be no burning when the wind is strong (as determined by the fire department). No burning when smoke drifts or blows onto highways or streets, to the extent that it creates a traffic hazard. There is to be no burning unless attended by a responsible adult. Please only burn during the daytime hours. To obtain a permit you can call 479-973-4801 after 8:00 am or drop by any fire station.

3. How do I become a Firefighter?: Applications are being accepted for the position of Firefighter at the Fayetteville Fire Department. To begin the process please click on:
Becoming a Firefighter

4. We recently had a fire at our house, how do I get a copy of a fire report and how much does it cost?: Reports may be obtained free of charge at Fire Station #1, located at 303 W Center Street in downtown Fayetteville, Monday through Friday during business hours. Reports can also be emailed a report by filling out this request form

5. How many fire stations do you have in Fayetteville?: The City of Fayetteville has eight (8) fire stations including a facility at the airport that houses the Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting apparatus; our training center is located on Borick Drive. The Fire Marshal’s office is located on South School Ave at the airport. Fire Stations.
Fire Stations

6. What is Fayetteville’s Insurance Service Organization (ISO) rating?: Effective May 1, 2018, Fayetteville’s Insurance Service Organization (ISO) rating is a Class 1

7. My smoke detector doesn’t work, is my landlord required to maintain it?: Your landlord is required to maintain installed smoke detectors within the structures that they own. The fire code says that the detectors are required to work. If your landlord does not comply, you may file a complaint with the Fire Department by calling 479-575-8365 or 479-444-3448.

8. What are the laws pertaining to fireworks use in Fayetteville?: Fireworks that are not prohibited under state or federal law and are considered consumer fireworks as defined under federal law and regulations (27C.F.R 555.11) may be sold between June 28 and July 5 of each year, subject to provisions. Any person desiring to sell fireworks must obtain a permit. Fireworks may only be discharged upon private property with the consent of the property owner and between the hours of 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. on July 1-3 and from 10 a.m. until 11 p.m. on July 4 and at no other time or date.

If any person less than the age of 16 years is present, an adult (at least 21 years of age) must supervise the discharge of all fireworks. No skyrockets or aerial fireworks attached to a stick may be discharged. Public display of fireworks may be allowed upon the application and granting of a public fireworks display permit by the Mayor or his designee.

9. How do I report a fire code violation?: Code violations may be reported to the Fire Marshal by calling 479-444-3448 or filling out this violation form.

10. How do I book a tour at the fire station for our group?: Tours of the fire stations are booked by filling out this request form or calling our Fire Safety Educator at 479-444-3448 during business hours.
Fire Stations

11. Does the Fire Department give any type of fire extinguisher or fire safety training for the public?: The Fire Department provides fire extinguisher training, for more information visit the Community Education page or call 479-444-3448.

12. Can I have a charcoal or gas grill on my apartment balcony?: Charcoal and gas grills are prohibited from use on apartment balconies by the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code. This code is enforced by the landlord and the Fayetteville Fire Department.

▼
Fleet

Show All Answers

1. We have lost our fuel key. How do we get a replacement?: Contact Dawn Haskins to request a replacement.

2. I have lost my mileage sheet, who do I contact to get another?: Contact Suzy Steele and request a new copy.

3. How do I know when a vehicle is coming due for replacement?: Contact Sara Glenn to talk about the replacement schedule.

▼
GIS

Show All Answers

1. What voting ward do I reside in?: There are two ways to find your Ward: Open My Fayetteville Services, search for and click on your house, then look at the "Elected Officials" tab. Two, open the interactive ward map and find your house.

2. Who are my City Council representatives?: Open My Fayetteville Services, search for and click on your house. The tab labeled "Elected Officials" will show you your two aldermen with links to their web pages.

3. Can I see the City web maps on my phone or tablet?: Yes. Use your web browser and navigate to the Interactive Maps page just like you would on your desktop. The maps should work on iOS, Android, and Windows Phone devices.

4. Are there any job openings?: Please check the following page:
Fayetteville Careers Website

5. With whom should I speak regarding addresses?: The E-911 Address Coordinator can be reached at 479-575-8380 in the GIS Office. You can obtain an address verification letter for existing addresses by clicking here.
GIS Office Contact Information

6. Are unit numbers or suite numbers assigned by the property owner(s)?: No. The unit number or suite number is a part of the address, which is assigned by the E-911 Address Coordinator.

7. Are there maps of Fayetteville on the city website?: Yes, the city website has a number of interactive maps maintained by our GIS department. They include aerial photography, the master street plan, neighborhood organizations, trails, wards, water and sewer systems, zoning, and other information.
GIS Interactive Maps

8. Is my house in the City of Fayetteville?: City Limits are shown on all our Interactive Maps , but perhaps the easiest way to find out is to open My Fayetteville Services, search for and click on your house. Then look at the "Elected Officials" tab -- the first line will say "City of Fayetteville" if you are in the City Limits.

9. How can I obtain GIS data?: GIS data can be extracted from our General Reference Map or by visiting the GIS data download page. Click the orange bar on the right and choose the area, layers, format, and coordinate system you want (default coordinates are Ark. State Plane North). If this method does not have the specific data you need or if you have questions or problems, please contact the GIS division at gis@fayetteville-ar.gov
GIS Office.

10. How can I download imagery?: Currently, imagery is not available for download. The GIS Office can clip imagery to a specific area and provide it to the customer in various formats. Please contact the GIS Office at gis@fayetteville-ar.gov
GIS Office Contact Information

11. Can I get data in CAD format?: Yes, there is an option available in our General Reference Map for data extraction. Formats include DWG, DXF, and DGN. See previous question for more information.

12. Can I download contours in CAD format and where are the elevations?: Contours can be "extracted" from our General Reference Map in a DWG, DXF, or DGN format. Elevations should be populated in the "Elevation" field. Contours can also be downloaded in zipped DWG files by the quarter quadrangle from our FTP Site.
FTP Site

13. I get an error when opening a map.: There are a few things that can go wrong: 1. You may need to "clear the cache" of your browser. 2. Our maps should work on all browsers, including Microsoft Edge, Safari, Firefox, and Chrome. However, if you are having trouble, you might try a different browser. Variations in versions, compatibility modes, and other settings can cause problems. 3. Occasionally our computer that hosts the Map Services will go down; we will get them back up and running as soon as we can. Try again in 15 minutes, and if they are still down, please contact the GIS division at gis@fayetteville-ar.gov.
Contact the GIS Office.

▼
Heritage and Historic Preservation Plan

Show All Answers

1. What is historic preservation and why is it needed?

Historic preservation is a “conversation with our past about our future,” says the National Parks Service. It provides us opportunities to ask, "What is important in our history?" and "What parts of our past can we preserve for the future?" Historic preservation is an important way for us to share our understanding of the past to future generations.

Our city’s history has many stories, and historic preservation helps tell these stories. Sometimes historic preservation involves celebrating events, people, places and ideas that we are proud of; other times it involves recognizing moments in our history that can be painful or uncomfortable to remember.

2. What does NOT go into a historic preservation plan?

Regulations, including paint color – those must be approved by City Council as an ordinance.
Budget amendment – this plan does not make budget changes or fund projects, which are made by City Council, but it does identify funding and timing priorities for historic preservation work.
An inventory or survey of historic properties in Fayetteville (although that is a project that can come out of the plan).

3. What is a Heritage and Historic Preservation Plan?

Fayetteville’s Heritage and Historic Preservation Plan is a guidance document for: 1) what the community’s priorities are, 2) what our historic preservation programs and projects look like and 3) what kind of funding and partnerships are available to us to do the work. The planning process begins by asking a lot of questions, such as:

Should regulations and design-review requirements be implemented for private properties?
Are there any neighborhoods that could benefit from or want historic zoning protections?
Are there historic sites that we are unaware of or need to know more about?
Do we need to offer more education or resources on how to maintain and repair historic properties?

After we receive community input on those questions, we can look at what the plan will recommend and the types of activities we’ll work on once the plan is adopted. Some examples include:

Improving our online resources for historic preservation.
Conducting more research into our history or working with community partners to learn more.
Creating a program and dedicating funding for a historic marker program.
Deciding if we need surveys of historic properties or historic neighborhoods to document those properties so they aren’t forgotten.
Identifying and applying for grants to support our historic preservation projects.

4. What are different types of historic designations and which ones include regulations/oversight?

Here are some important details about the types of historic districts and where we have them in Fayetteville:

National Register Historic Districts are federally recognized historic districts. These have been around since 1966 as a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate and protect America's historic and archeological resources. This designation can help qualified historic properties receive preservation benefits and incentives.
We have nine National Register Historic Districts in Fayetteville! Please view the Historic Sites Map to see where most of them are located.
Because zoning is at the local level (not at the federal level), there are no zoning protections for properties on the National Register of Historic Places. Some protections exist when a project is undertaken with federal funds, like a transportation project, but being listed on the National Register is not a protection from demolition, additions or exterior/interior changes.
Arkansas has its own recognition of important places, which includes more than buildings. The Oaks Cemetery is recognized by the state as a historic African-American cemetery; in 2014 it was placed on the Arkansas Register of Historic Places.
Many of the state historic preservation grants require that the state be granted a historic preservation easement to protect the reservation work on a building into the future. That way, any future changes must be approved by the state before carried out. State easements are enforced by the state, not by the City of Fayetteville.
Fayetteville has one local ordinance district – or, just one building protected by historic zoning. It’s the White Hangar at Drake Field! This means the White Hangar is its own local historic district.
The White Hangar has its own set of design guidelines or guidance for exterior changes to the building that are considered when any change is proposed. These are based on guidance from the U.S. Secretary of the Interior.
Local zoning districts can have their own unique design guidelines to address unique structures or needs. These guidelines can regulate some things, like demolitions and new construction, while not regulating other things, like paint colors and window replacement. It’s important to decide ahead of time what is important to protect and where flexibility is needed so that regulations can reflect that. Call the Planning Division if you’re interested, and we can discuss the details!
In Arkansas there are requirements that must be met before a city can adopt an ordinance for historic zoning protections, and we would be looking for property owners to want to have those requirements in place. That’s why it’s important for neighborhoods to communicate their goals with City staff if they want to explore this option.

5. What types of information are typically included in a historic preservation ordinance? How can communities shape an ordinance to meet their needs?

When you create a local historic district, it’s a type of zoning, and the first thing zoning needs is a description of the property being zoned. This creates a clear boundary so it’s understood what’s included in the boundary or regulations – and what is not.

When you create a local historic district, you also need clear requirements or regulations for the area in the district. For historic districts, this usually comes in the form of adopted design standards or design guidelines that spell out and illustrate what compatible changes to properties look like, and what requirements are for those changes.

Local historic districts also need to specify who is responsible for approving any changes that need special approval. For some historic districts, the changes can be approved by City staff. For others it’s the Historic District Commission. Sometimes it’s a combination of the two.

Because local historic districts are local and specific to a neighborhood, the regulations need to be specific to and fit that neighborhood. Some historic neighborhoods have a historic style residents would like to protect, and they want the regulations to require that any new structures or additions to existing structures match the historic appearance. Some historic neighborhoods have more variation, but they may have common characteristics (like having garages at the rear of the property or facing the side instead of being prominent at the front).

Historic preservation ordinances don’t prevent changes to properties, but they do guide what those changes look like. A historic preservation ordinance can also provide some flexibility when alternative approaches help protect historic structures.

6. What are the benefits and responsibilities of owning a property with a local historic designation?

A benefit of owning property in a local historic district is there are requirements in place that manage change to properties, so that any new or additional development has to fit with the existing neighborhood, according to the adopted design standards. It creates some certainty. There is often a public hearing for proposed changes so the neighborhood can be informed on what is being proposed and can comment on new development.

The responsibility to comply with the design standards and get the required approvals is also applied to the neighborhood, with the expectation that exterior changes, additions and new construction will meet the adopted standards. When you have put a lot of investment into a historic property, this is a way to ensure that investment can be maintained after the property changes owners.

7. What is a typical process for making changes to a property with a local historic designation?

Properties that have a local historic district designation usually must go through a design review process when changes to the property are proposed to make sure the changes meet the adopted design standards. This is in addition to any building permits that may be required. For example, if you want to add a garage to your house, before you could get the building permit for the garage you would have to submit your garage design to City staff or to the Historic District Commission. This way they can review the design and check that it meets the requirements. There may be requirements (like the garage being set behind the front of the house, or the roof of the new garage needing to match the roof on the existing house and using the same exterior materials). Once the design is approved, you can move forward with the building permit.

It’s important to note that ordinary maintenance and repair usually do not require design review approval – those are necessary items to keep the historic structure in good condition and do not need special approval.

8. What are the alternatives to historic districts, if a neighborhood wants to manage changes and new construction?: Local historic districts are the most commonly used tool to protect historic structures and neighborhoods from incompatible changes, but there are other options that have become popular. One of those options is a Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District. Both a Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District and a historic district are overlay districts; however, a conservation district will typically regulate fewer features and focus more on significant character defining features, such as lot size, building height, setbacks, streetscapes and tree protection. Unlike historic districts, conservation districts rarely consider specific elements, such as windows, buildings materials, colors and decorative details. In addition, most conservation districts do not include demolition delays, a tool utilized in historic districts.

▼
Hot Check Program

Show All Answers

1. What is a violation of the Arkansas Hot Check Law and how does the City Prosecutor handle these violations?: When the Hot Check Office receives a check, a letter will be mailed to the check writer giving them 10 days to pay the check or 10 days to make arrangements to pay the check. If a check is not paid an arrest warrant will be issued for the individual who signed the check. The check writer will need to pay the restitution and appear in court. The check will need to be paid with a money order or cashier's check made out to the City of Fayetteville.

2. Who can use the Hot Check Office?: Any merchant or citizen in the city limits of Fayetteville who receives a check for $1,000 or less that is stamped by the bank "Insufficient" or "Account Closed" may bring the bad check to the Fayetteville Hot Check Office.

3. What steps can my business take to avoid receiving a worthless or hot check?: There are several things you can require at the time you take a check at your business, such as a driver's license (compare photo and signatures to the check writer), a date of birth, and a high check number (many bad checks are numbered below 500). Watch for checks with an out-of-state business or banking facility, checks with a typed name in the upper left hand corner, or checks with a P.O. Box rather than a permanent address.

Be careful of rebate checks, make sure numerical and written amounts agree, and confirm that the date of the check is for the same day you received it. Employees should be trained on all these. It's also good practice to set limits and refuse checks you have any doubt about.

4. My business has received a bad check. What should I do?: If you receive a bad check, there are several things you can do immediately. First, send it through the bank a second time. If the check is still insufficient, attempt to contact the check writer and give a time limit on payment. If these methods don't work, you may sign a complaint at the City Prosecutor's Office and they will handle it from there.

Once it has reached this step, do not accept any money on the checks turned over to this office. The check writer must pay through the Hot Check Office. Hot Check Information

5. What happens after I file a complaint with the Hot Check Office?: A "demand to pay" letter will be sent to the check writer. If there is no response to the letter within 15 days, a warrant will be issued and the check writer will be arrested. The judge or City Prosecutor will settle the case.

6. What money is collected for merchants who receive a hot check?: We collect a $30 service charge above the face value of the check for you.

7. What is the amount for a felony hot check?: Any bad check in excess of $1,000 is considered to be a felony offense. Several checks written within a 90-day period that total over $1,000 may constitute a felony. Our office will send the checks to the County Prosecutor once we determine that the writer is a felony check writer.

8. Can all checks that are returned be prosecuted as a hot check?: There are several types of checks that are not possible to prosecute under the Violation of Arkansas Hot Check Law. You can find a listing of these in our information regarding hot checks.
Hot Check Information

9. I think the check that I received was a forgery. What should I do?: Take a forged check to the Detective Division of the Fayetteville Police Department for investigation if the check is written in the City of Fayetteville. All forged checks are felonies, even if the amount is under $1000.

10. How do I pay my hot check?: If you have received a Hot Check Notice from the Fayetteville Billing and Collections Division or the City Prosecutor, you may pay with cash, credit / debit card or money order, along with your notice to the cashier at the Water Department. You may also mail a money order to the address on the notice, along with a copy of the notice.

11. Where do I file a complaint for a felony hot check?: You can file a complaint at:
Washington County Prosecuting Attorney
280 N College
Suite 300
Fayetteville, AR 72701

For questions, please call 479-444-1570.

▼
Human Resources

Show All Answers

1. How do I apply for a job?: Go create an account on the City's career page and apply online. www.fayetteville-ar.gov

2. May I apply for a job that is not currently open?: The City of Fayetteville only accepts job applications for positions that are currently open. For your convenience, please feel free to sign up for automatic e-mail alerts for the City's job openings. That way you will know immediately when there is a job opening in the areas you've indicated interest in.

▼
Mayor

Show All Answers

1. How can I contact my Councilmember?: This link will connect you to Councilmember contact information.
City Council Contact Information

2. What city ward do I live in?: Visit My Fayetteville Services to discover services available at your home address – or any other in Fayetteville -- including the city ward you live in, city council representative, recycling/trash pickup day, schools, zoning, flood zone, and neighborhood organizations. You can also locate and get directions to parks and trails, library, fire and police stations, hospitals, post offices, and other civic sites.
My Fayetteville Services

3. When is the next City Council meeting?: Access a list of City Council meetings dates here.
Find and register to attend a meeting through the Public Meeting Calendar.

4. What time does the City Council meeting start?: The City Council meetings start at 5:30 p.m. on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month.

5. Whom do I contact to change or set up new water service?: The City of Fayetteville Utilities Financial Services Division is responsible for helping citizens establish new water service or make changes to existing service. More information maybe found online

6. Do I need a permit to have a yard sale in Fayetteville?: The City of Fayetteville does not issue permits for yard sales. Citizens may have up to four yard sales per year and may not exceed three consecutive days.

7. Whom do I contact to assess my personal property?: Washington County assesses personal property. Visit the
Washington County website.

8. How do I contact the Better Business Bureau if I have a complaint about a business?: Visit the website of the Better Business Bureau.

9. Whom do I contact to get a copy of my birth certificate?: Birth certificates are obtained through the Arkansas Department of Health.

10. How do I contact the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce?: Contact the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce by phone at 479-521-1710

11. What is the phone number to get my Driver’s License or car tags renewed?: The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration handles driver's license and car tag renewals. Please call 479-442-7691 or 479-442-6611 or visit the Fayetteville Revenue Office Details web page.

12. Whom do I contact to get information on the Farmers’ Market?: Information on the Fayetteville Farmers' Market is available online.

13. How do I contact the Fayetteville Public Schools?: You may contact Fayetteville Public Schools by phone at 479-444-3000 or visit their website.

14. How do I get information about Fayetteville and upcoming events?: For information about upcoming events, visit the Fayetteville Visitor's Bureau.

15. What is the phone number to the Unemployment Office?: There are different areas of the unemployment office. To contact the right person, please visit the Arkansas Department of Workforce Services website and view the departments.

16. How do I contact my State Senators and Representatives?: To view a list of senators and representatives, visit the
Arkansas Government website.

17. Whom do I contact to register to vote?: Contact the election commission by phone at 479-444-1766 or visit the
website.

18. What is the phone number to the Washington County Health Department?: The Washington County Health Department phone number is 479-521-8181. For more information, visit the
Arkansas Department of Health website.

19. What is the phone number to the Post Office?: Visit the US Postal Service website and search for a location near you to find the corresponding phone number. The phone numbers are online

20. How do I apply for a business license or a permit in Fayetteville?

You may apply for a City permit via the City’s online Citizen Self-Service Portal.

To apply for a new business license, please contact the Business License Clerk at 479.575.8352. Business licenses may be renewed via the City’s online Citizen Self-Service Portal.

21. Who to contact when a street light is out?

The majority of street lights are maintained by the utility service provider (electric company) for the area in which the street light is located. For the fastest service, contact the appropriate electric company directly: Ozarks Electric Cooperative at 1-800-521-6144 or SWEPCO / AEP at 1-888-216-3523. Citizens can also report SWEPCO street light outages through their online service form.

Please be prepared to provide the following information:

Name
Address (If the light is not located at a specific address, please provide the closest available street address.)
Telephone number
Pole number

22. How do I reach Code Enforcement?: A city code compliance complaint may be registered by phone at 479-575-8238, by email at code_compliance@fayetteville-ar.gov, or by submitting an online service request.

23. Who do I contact regarding e-scooters in the city?

For information about the City’s e-scooter program, contact Mobility Coordinator Dane Eifling at (479) 575-8243, or by email at deifling@fayetteville-ar.gov.

24. What is the phone number for the Washington County Courthouse?: To reach the Washington County Courthouse, located at 4 South College Avenue, call (479) 444-1700.

▼
Online Police Reporting

Show All Answers

1. What do I do if online incident reporting is not right for me?: If your incident is an emergency, call 911. If non-emergency, please call 479-587-3555. Online Police Reporting System

2. What if the incident happened in another city? Can I file a report using this online police citizen reporting system?: If a crime took place outside of the city of Fayetteville, please call the law enforcement agency for that city or area.

3. What if the incident in question happened on Interstate 49?: If this took place on a state freeway please call the Arkansas State Police at 479-751-6663.

4. What if this incident happened on University of Arkansas property?: If the incident in question happened on University of Arkansas property, contact the University of Arkansas Police Department at 479-575-2222

5. What is a known suspect?: A known suspect is when you or someone else knows the person or where to find the person who committed the crime, or know the license plate number of the vehicle the suspect or suspects were in.

▼
Parks

Show All Answers

1. Can I register for a program or reserve a facility online?: Yes! All reservations and registrations are available online here.

2. What volunteer opportunities does Fayetteville Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural Affairs offer?

The Fayetteville Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural Affairs Department is always looking for volunteers to staff events and help with different programs, special events and projects. We also have Adopt-A-Park and Adopt-A-Trail programs for helping with maintenance tasks, however, it is not necessary to adopt.

We work with groups and individuals on a one time basis also. Please contact the Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural Affairs Department at 479-444-3467.

3. What facilities are accessible?: Residents of all abilities are invited to participate and utilize any Fayetteville Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural Affairs Department program or facility. Every reasonable effort will be made to accommodate the needs of each individual.

4. Why does my dog have to be on a leash?: The City of Fayetteville has an ordinance requiring that all dogs be leashed and that citizens clean up after their pets. There are three parks that do not require a leash - Lake Wilson, the Fayetteville Animal Shelter, and IAMS Park at Bryce Davis Park.

5. Does Fayetteville have a dog park?

Lake Wilson is a 320 acre off-leash dog park located in southeast Fayetteville. Procter and Gamble donated $30,000 to help build our newest dog park IAMS Park at Bryce Davis Park, located at 1595 N. Dartmouth Avenue. The Dog Park rules are as follows:

Dogs must be on a leash upon entering and exiting the dog park.
Dogs must be supervised by the owner, have current vaccinations and City licenses.
The owners must pick up dog waste and dispose of it in designated trash receptacles.
A person may bring in only two dogs.
Children eight years and younger are not allowed in the off-leash dog area. Children ages nine through 13 must be accompanied by an adult.
Dog owners must be in the park and within view of their dogs at all times.
Food is not allowed inside the dog park, with the exception of training treats.
Aggressive dogs are not allowed.
Users of the facility do so at their own risk.
Dogs in heat or under the age of four months are not allowed.
Spiked collars are not allowed in the dog park.

6. Do I need a license to fish at city lakes?: Yes. State fishing licenses can be obtained throughout the state of Arkansas at various sporting goods outlets. City boating and fishing permits can be purchased at Lake Fayetteville or Lake Sequoyah and are usable at all city lakes.

Lake Fayetteville, Lake Sequoyah, and Lake Wilson are open to the public throughout the year from sunrise to sunset, using the times given on The Weather Channel.

The lakes are closed Thanksgiving Day and from December 24 through January 14. For information on required permits and general lake regulations, contact Lake Sequoyah at 479-444-3475 or Lake Fayetteville at 479-444-3476.

7. Which parks have a walking trail?

Hard surface trails are featured at Gulley Park (1.15 miles), Gordon Long Park (0.60 miles), Walker Park (1.38 miles), Bryce Davis Park (0.19 miles), Red Oak Park (0.20 miles), Dale Clark Park (0.60 miles) and Wilson Park (0.90 miles).

Visit the Trails page for more information including directions to each trail.

8. What are some Trail Safety and Etiquette rules?

There are several ways you can be safe on the trails. Some ideas are:

Always wear a helmet when riding a bicycle.
Use bicycle lights and reflectors after dusk and before dawn.
Cyclists should use hand signals to alert others when they intend to turn.
Trail speed limit is 15 m.p.h.
Stay in the right lane.
Ring a bell or five a clear, verbal warning by saying "passing" to nearby trail users before passing.
"Leave No Trace." Keep trails litter-free by carrying out anything you carry in.
Gas powered motorized vehicles are prohibited on trails. Motorized wheelchairs and electric powered bicycles are permitted.
Keep all pets on a leash within four feet.
Pick up after pet waste.
Do not disturb wildlife.

9. What does is cost to boat and/or fish on City lakes?

Fishing and Boating permits are required for Lake Fayetteville and should be purchased at the Boat House/ Lake Office prior to accessing the lake. All state laws governing boats apply. There is no permit requirement for Lake Sequoyah, Lake Wilson or other park areas containing fishable waters. All City lakes are No Wake.

Boating: A boating permit for each boat must be purchased before its use on Lake Fayetteville. All state laws governing boats apply.
Fishing: All fishing shall be done only from the bank or boat. No wading, swimming, or belly boats shall be permitted in all City Lakes. All AG&F regulations apply and licenses are required.
Permits: Visit the Boating and Fishing page for updated pricing on daily and annual permits.

10. Which parks have electricity available?: Electricity is available at all three pavilions at Walker Park, Gulley Park Gazebo, the Veterans Park Pavilion, the Lake Fayetteville Northshore Pavilion, and the Bryce Davis Dog Park Pavilion.

11. Which parks have volleyball courts?: Volleyball courts are available at Wilson Park, Walker Park, Gulley Park, and Veterans Memorial Park at Lake Fayetteville.

12. When does the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board meet?: The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board meets the first Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m, unless it is a city holiday. If that is the case, it will meet the following Monday.

All board meetings are held in the City Administration Building, 113 West Mountain Street, in the suite indicated or as otherwise noted on the weekly public meetings list. Special meetings are held as needed and usually are conducted on-site.

13. Can we rent park sport facilities for a tournament?: Fayetteville sport facilities can be rented by completing a Special Event Form, which can be obtained by calling the Parks Office at 479-444-3471.

Fees vary according to the type of facility, number of fields used, maintenance needs, and light usage. Facilities that can be reserved include soccer fields, softball fields, baseball fields, the disc golf course, multipurpose fields, sand volleyball courts, and tennis courts.

14. What do I do if I see some vandalism in a park?: Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural Affairs tries to keep all of its parks and facilities in excellent condition, but occasionally vandalism, misuse, or wear can leave a facility in need of repair. If you witness or observe damage to a park facility, please call the Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural Affairs Department at 479-444-3471 to report the problem. You may also report non-emergency problems on this website.

15. What are the Park Rules and Regulations?

Alcoholic beverages are not permitted in the parks.
Parks close at 11 p.m. (Lake Sequoyah, Lake Fayetteville, Charles J. Finger Park, and Veterans Memorial Park close at sunset.)
No vending or peddling without prior permission from the Parks Director.
Vehicles must observe all posted signs.
Park only in designated parking areas. Do not park on the park grass.
No motorized vehicles are allowed within the park.
Place trash in trash receptacles.
No fires except in fireplaces or grills.
Leash and clean up after pets.
Posting of streamers, signs, or posters is prohibited when adhered with tape or other sticky materials which remove paint from the pavilions, railings, and other structures.
Inflatable jump toys and pony rides are prohibited.

16. What are the hours for the Yvonne Richardson Community Center (YRCC)?: The YRCC is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

17. What are the Wilson Park Swimming Pool hours and how much does it cost?: For information regarding the Wilson Park Swimming Pool, visit our Wilson Pool page.

18. Where are the closest campgrounds and cabins?: Currently the City of Fayetteville Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural Affairs Department does not offer camping facilities. Contact the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism at 1-800-NATURAL or the Fayetteville Visitor's Center at 479-521-5776 for more information.

▼
Planning

Show All Answers

1. Where and how is my property zoned?: The City's zoning map shows the zoning of each property inside the city limits. You can click on the link below to open the map, find your property, and then view the details.
Zoning Map

2. What does the zoning of my property allow?: The zoning of a property indicates the uses permitted on your property, where buildings and other structures may be located, how large a building can be, and other pertinent land use regulations adopted by the city. The zoning regulations can be found in the city’s zoning ordinance by clicking on the following link. Chapter 161

3. Why is there a red public notice sign in my neighborhood?

The City of Fayetteville requires a red public notice sign to be posted on a property for which an issue is being considered by the Planning Commission or the Board of Adjustment. The public notice sign displays the project number, a brief description of the request, the assigned planner, and the time and date of the public hearing.

Specific information about these planning and development issues is available in the Planning office. Citizens are encouraged to participate at public hearings and to contact the Planning Division with any questions related to planning and development issues.

You can also view this map for items associated with a posted sign.

4. Where can I find a meeting agenda?: The City posts agendas and videos on the City Clerk page for most City meetings that have already occurred, including the Planning Commission and the City Council. You may also view agendas for upcoming meetings.
If you cannot find a specific meeting, please contact the Planning division for assistance at 479-575-8267

5. Do I need a sign permit?: Not all signs in Fayetteville require a sign permit, such as building construction signs, real estate signs, home occupation signs, memorial signs, subdivision signs, and public or special event signs; however, your sign may still need to be reviewed to ensure it is the correct size and located properly.

Please read the city’s Sign Ordinance under exemptions to determine if your sign needs a permit. If you need further assistance, please contact the Planning division. Sign Ordinance

6. Do I need a permit for a garage sale?: No, you do not need a permit for a garage sale. However, garage sales cannot be located in 1 location more than 4 times in a year and cannot exceed 3 consecutive days. Please review the regulations for more information about garage sale signs.

7. Can I put a shed in my backyard?: Sheds and other accessory structures (garages, carports, pool house, etc.) less than 50% of the size of the principal structure may be permitted in the backyard, but there are regulations and setbacks that must be met.

An accessory structure 10 feet or less in height must be 3 feet or more from a side property line and 5 feet from the rear property line. If the accessory structure is taller than 10 feet, the setback requirements of the zoning district must be met.

Please contact the Planning division to confirm that your structure will meet the required building setbacks. The Building Safety Division can determine if a building permit is necessary.

8. Does the City of Fayetteville require a business license?: Yes, the City of Fayetteville requires all businesses within city limits to be licensed. Follow the provided link for more information. Business License Program

9. Do I need a building permit for a fence?: A fence that is 6 feet tall or less does not require a building permit. Fences cannot impede vision between vehicular or pedestrian traffic, which is determined by the Planning Division. Additional restrictions for fences may apply if a property is located within the Downtown Design Overlay District and the I-540 Overlay District. Any fence taller than 6 feet does require a building permit application to be submitted to the Building Safety Division. Building Safety Division

10. Can I operate a business from my house?: Yes, the City of Fayetteville allows you to operate a business from your home. Please follow the provided link for more information. Business License Program

▼
Police Department

Show All Answers

1. How do I keep a traffic violation from appearing on my driving record?: It is recommended to contact the District Court. District Court

2. Where is the police department located?: Our address is 1800 N. Stephen Carr Memorial Blvd., Fayetteville, AR 72704.
Map for police department

3. How can I pay my fines or tickets?: You may send payment through the mail to the Fayetteville District Court, 176 S. Church Ave., Suite 1, Fayetteville, AR 72701, 479-587-3590; or pay in person at the same address.

4. How do I get a copy of a police report?: Police reports are usually ready within five working days through our Records Division. Accident reports requested at the Police Department are $10 and case reports are free. Accident reports cannot be faxed due to the processing charge for each report. Accident reports are available online through Lexis Nexis for $15. There is no fee for an incident report. If you have any questions regarding a police report you can reach the Records Division at 479-587-3565.

5. How do I get information about crime in a certain neighborhood?: Contact the Fayetteville Police Department’s Community Oriented Policing Division at 479-587-3580 or visit the Community Crime Map.
Community Policing Division

6. What are the hours of the Records Division of the police department?: The Records Division hours are Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. We are open during lunch hours.
Records Division

7. What are Fayetteville District Court hours and where are they located?: The Fayetteville District Court hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call the District Court at 479-587-3590 for lunch closings. They are located at 176 S Church Avenue, Suite 6. District Court

8. If the person at fault in an accident does not have insurance what are my options?: Accident disputes are settled through small claims court located at the Fayetteville District Court.

9. How can I check for warrants at the Fayetteville Police Department?: Call the Warrants Division at 479-575-8344 Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. They will only have information for warrants held by the Fayetteville Police Department. They will give you instructions on how to take care of the warrant.
You can also check for warrants by using the Warrant Search quick link on the police department's home page. Warrants Division

10. How do I take care of a hot check?: Contact Fayetteville Prosecutor’s Office Hot Check Division by phone at 479-575-8254 if you need to take care of a hot check. Hot Check Program

11. Am I responsible to fill out a SR-1 form or is my insurance company?: Mandated State of Arkansas form to be filled out when $1,000 worth of damage or more occurs to a vehicle. It is the driver’s responsibility to send this information to the State of Arkansas. Arkansas Department of Finance & Administration

12. To whom do I report identity theft?: You will need to file a police report with your local police department and report it to the Federal Trade Commission. Federal Trade Commission

13. To whom do I report a computer internet crime?: For internet crime, you will need to file a police report with your local police department and report the crime to IC3. IC3

14. Can I get a background check on myself or a citizen?: The Records Division can give you a background check on a citizen. They can only give you information on incidents that occurred in the city of Fayetteville. If you need background checks for other cities you can contact the Arkansas State Police at 479-751-6663. Records Division

15. Can the police department tell me if something I have purchased is stolen?: If you have the serial number of the purchased item you can contact the Criminal Investigation Division at 479-587-3520 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Criminal Investigation Division

16. What job opportunities are currently available?: Thank you for inquiring about employment with the Fayetteville Police Department. We offer both sworn and non-sworn positions. For more information you can contact the City's Human Resources Division at 479-575-8278. Fayetteville Jobs

17. How can I find out if a sex offender lives in my neighborhood?: Sex offenders are required by law to register with the police department in the jurisdiction where they are living. The police department then notifies the neighborhood where the registered offender is living. They also provide this information to the State of Arkansas and it is posted on a website at the Arkansas Crime Information Center. There is also a link on the Police Department page to Offender Watch. This is a site co-sponsored by the Washington County Sheriff's Office, the Fayetteville Police Department, and Springdale Police Department. If you have further questions about sex offender registration contact the Fayetteville Police Department's Criminal Investigation Division at 479-587-3520.

18. Does the City of Fayetteville have any curfew laws?: At this time, the City of Fayetteville does not have any curfew laws.

19. Is there a noise ordinance in Fayetteville?: There currently is a noise ordinance in Fayetteville. Sound (music) coming from a vehicle at any time should not be heard from a distance greater than 30 feet and plainly audible. Between the hours of 1 AM to 8AM, noise coming from a business or residence that can be heard from a distance greater than 150 feet from the business or residences is a violation of the City's noise ordinance. Violations at any other time will be determined by a sound meter reading taken from the property line by a certified officer. Use of compression release engine brakes is prohibited in the city limits.

20. Where can I obtain information on police auctions?: You will need to contact the Property Evidence Manager at 479-587-3586 for information on police auctions.

21. Can I file a police report online?: In certain instances you can file an online report. The criteria and reporting process can be found on the Online Police Reporting System web page.
Online Police Reporting System

22. How do I add information to my police report?: You can add information to your police report by either contacting the Criminal Investigations Division at 479-587-3520 or a police Support Specialist at 479-587-3571. They can add information to your report.

23. How do I find out information about a traffic citation?

Information regarding the price of a ticket or questions regarding the amount of any fine can be obtained by calling the Records Division at 479-587-3565. Information regarding court dates or how to keep a traffic citation off of your driving record can be obtained by calling Fayetteville District Court at 479-587-3590.

Citation Amounts - Codes on Citations

Code 1 - $45.00

Code 2 - $70.00

Code 3 - $90.00

Code 4 - $95.00

Code 5 - $145.00

Code 6 - $170.00

Code 7 - $195.00

Records Division

24. How do I report graffiti?: Graffiti is considered vandalism. If you do not have any suspect information a report can be filed on-line using the Online Police Reporting System. If you do have suspect information please call, 479-587-3555 to request a police officer sent to the location. Click on the link for more information. Information on reporting vandalism

25. How do I file a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request?

The Fayetteville Police Department accepts FOIA requests on a daily basis and is always willing to assist citizens in obtaining information. Most records requested by FOIA requests, are granted and sent back to the requester. However, some records, such as open case files or cases awaiting adjudication, are not released as they are no longer under our control.

FOIA requests can be filed online in the City of Fayetteville's web Freedom of Information Act web portal. Learn more about FOIA requests here.

Community Policing Division

26. How long do I have to tag / insure my vehicle after purchase?: You have 30 days to tag your vehicle. Your vehicle should be insured immediately after purchase to abide with Arkansas State Laws. Arkansas State Legislature

27. What can I do about my neighbor's barking dog?: Contact Animal Services at 479-444-3456 during regular business hours. It is also helpful to keep a log with the dates and times the dog has been barking to provide to the Animal Services Officer. Animal Services

28. What after hour city services are provided by the Central Dispatch Center?: The Central Dispatch Center (CDC) answers calls for emergency citywide services when the regular business offices are closed. These calls include water leaks, sewage back-ups, injured animals, etc. When notified of a problem, CDC contacts the on-call person for that particular department. The on-call person in turn will either contact the citizen or go directly to the scene, depending on the circumstances. Communications Division

29. Can you help me get my property back from my ex-roommate, husband or wife?: This is considered a civil matter between you and your ex-roommate, husband or wife. The police department cannot get involved in those matters. All civil matters are handled through the court. If you fear for your safety while you retrieve some of your property you can call our non-emergency number (479-587-3555) and request a civil standby.

30. How do I compliment or file a complaint against a police officer?: To file a compliment / complaint against a police officer, you may contact the police department at 479-587-3555. Office of Professional Standards

31. Can I pay a parking meter ticket at the Fayetteville Police Department?: You cannot pay your parking meter ticket at the police department. Parking meter tickets are paid at Parking Management at 113 W Mountain in Fayetteville or by dropping off payment at any of the red meter courtesy boxes.
Parking Tickets

▼
Police Department - YCPA

Show All Answers

1. What are the YCPA hours?: Class hours 8:30AM - 3:30PM Drop off times 7:45AM - 8:15AM Pick up times 3:30PM - 4:00PM

2. Is food provided: Snacks, lunch, a sports drink and water are provided everyday free of charge.

3. What are the ages of Level 1 YCPA: You must be in the 5th or 6th grade during the 2022-2023 school year

4. What are the ages of the Level 2 YCPA: You must be in the 7th - 12th grades during the 2022-2023 school year.

▼
Police Department Alarms

Show All Answers

1. Who needs an alarm permit?: Anyone possessing an alarm system, device, or assembly of equipment designed to signal the occurrence of an illegal or unauthorized entry or other activity requiring immediate attention and to which the Fayetteville Police Department is expected to respond. This does not include alarms installed in motor vehicles, fire alarms, or alarms designed to elicit a medical response. Alarm Ordinance

2. How much does a permit cost?: There is no charge for the permit.

3. How do I obtain a permit?: You may have been given an application by your alarm company, but you may also download a copy online. Click here to learn more about how to file.
Alarm Permit Application

4. What do I do with the permit once I receive one?: You will not receive an actual physical permit. You will receive a letter notifying you of your permit number. The alarm permit number is specific to you at that address.

5. Can I appeal a false alarm?: You may appeal any false alarm notification you receive. Alarm users should use the appeal guidelines as a reference to determine what is considered a false alarm. A good rule of thumb is to determine if criminal activity has occurred and not whose fault it might have been. Click here to learn more about false alarm appeals.
Appeal Guidelines

6. Where does the money go that is collected from false alarm fees?: The money collected from false alarm fees goes to the City of Fayetteville, and it pays for the cost of the program. Schedule of Fees

7. I have moved out of the city / county / state, how can I close my account?: If you no longer own, rent, or are held responsible for the address for which you had a permit, we encourage you to notify us in writing that you wish to close the permit account. The written letter can be mailed to:
Fayetteville False Alarm Reduction Unit
P.O. Box 1568
Lowell, AR 72745-1568

8. I have moved from one local address to another, can I still use the same permit number?: You cannot use the same number from a previous local address. Each permit is site and owner specific. If you move, you need a new permit. Keep in mind that all old permits need to be closed.

If you happen to sell an address (business or house) with an installed alarm system, you cannot transfer the permit number to the new owner (even if they are going to use the same alarm company).

9. Where can I get a copy of the Alarm Ordinance?: You may view, download, and print the Alarm Ordinance at the link below.
Fayetteville Alarm Ordinance

10. Why does the Fayetteville False Alarm Reduction Unit have a P.O. Box in Lowell, Arkansas?: The City of Fayetteville has contracted the management of the false alarm program to the AOT Public Safety Corporation. They handle the permitting, invoicing, billing, and maintenance of data. They have set up a lock box with Arvest Bank, and the Lowell address was the closest lock box facility to Fayetteville.

▼
Pre-Approved Building Design Program Pilot

Show All Answers

1. Can I build these plans anywhere?: The plans are designed specifically for the project area shown on the map and are only eligible for permit approval within that project area. If the pilot is successful, the City may consider expanding the program to additional areas of Fayetteville.

2. Why is the City doing this project?: Goal 1 of City Plan 2040, adopted in 2020, is “We will make appropriate infill and revitalization our highest priority. Part of implementing that goal is completing the benchmarks or action items to achieve the plan goals. Page 48 of the plan document includes the short-term benchmark to “Create pre-approved building types for identified neighborhoods.” This potentially helps achieve Goals 2, 3 and 6 of the plan as well, and is being undertaken within the time frame set for this action item.

3. So all I have to do is submit the pre-approved plans and I get a building permit?: The pre-approved plans have been designed to meet the City of Fayetteville’s codes if the lot that the structure(s) would be built on meets the qualifications for the selected plan set. There may be additional documents required for a building permit to be approved if additional engineering design is needed for the foundation, if a fire suppression system is required for the building, or if the stormwater design needs to be customized for the site. All of this will be checked when you submit a plan set and identify the lot to be used for construction, and any additional documents will be requested by our permit review staff.

4. Who drew the pre-approved plans?: The building plan sets were provided by Miller Boskus Lack Architects through a contract with the City of Fayetteville.

5. How long does it take to get a permit with the pre-approved plan sets?: Typically 2-5 business days. Projects that require additional engineering may need additional review time. Projects that require custom design work or solutions will be reviewed in the standard permit review process and timeline.

▼
Purchasing

Show All Answers

1. Am I allowed to contact the selection committee members during the RFP / RFQ process?: No. By City policy, vendors are not allowed to communicate with any members of the selection committee until the committee has voted. If you have a question during the process, contact the Purchasing Division.

2. Are there any requirements for submitting a bid?: Terms and conditions vary with each bid depending on what is being purchased. Please refer to the terms and conditions section of the bid for details.

3. Do I need to include taxes and shipping in my bid?: Bid pricing shall include all labor, materials, shipping, insurance, etc., to cover the furnishing of the items bid. Sales tax will apply when necessary; however, it will not be considered during bid evaluation.

4. How do I get signed up on the mailing list?: The City of Fayetteville Purchasing Division does not send out notifications of bid opportunities to individual vendors. Register with the City’s new electronic bidding software to find out about competitive bid opportunities at the City of Fayetteville.
Notification Sign up

5. How do I get a copy of a plan holders list?: Not all bids have an associated plan holder listing. Typically these are kept only for construction related projects. Any bid which has an associated plan holder listing will be posted and made available through the City’s electronic bidding software.
Open the City of Fayetteville Purchasing Portal

6. What does the City do with its surplus equipment?: The City of Fayetteville sells surplus via a third party online auction company called GovDeals, Inc. The City of Fayetteville sends out notifications containing a list of items that have been placed on the auction site. Please subscribe to our mailing list to get automatic notifications of items for sale. If you have questions regarding the online process contact the Purchasing Division at 479-575-8256. For new GovDeals bidder verifications, call 1-800-613-0156 ext. 1, and for assistance with an existing GovDeals, Inc. account, call customer service at 1-800-613-0156, ext. 2.

7. What is the difference between a Bid, an RFP, and an RFQ?

During a bid, price is the most deciding factor for award. Bid examples include: construction, equipment, materials and supplies.

An RFP (Request for Proposals) or RFQ (Request for Qualifications) is used more where price is a consideration, but not the most weighted factor. Other factors considered include:
1. Qualifications in Relation to Specific Project to be Performed
2. Experience, Competence, and Capacity for Performance
3. Work Method and Location of Facilities
4. Past Performance
5. Price (not considered in an RFQ)

RFQ's are only done for architectural, engineering and legal services.

8. When do I need an Arkansas Contractor’s License Number?: When bidding on a construction project for more than $50,000, a current valid Arkansas State Contractor’s License is required.

9. When do I need a bid bond or 100% performance and payment bond?: A bid bond is required to be submitted with construction bids totaling $50,000 or more. A 100% performance and payment bond is required whenever a vendor is awarded a construction contract totaling $50,000 or more. Equipment or service contracts exceeding $35,000 may in some instances also require a performance and payment bond.

10. Where does the City of Fayetteville advertise Bids, RFP's and RFQ's?: All advertisements run in the Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette under classification 1210 legal. You may also sign up to receive notification through the City’s electronic bidding software.
Register for notifications

11. Where do I find the results of a bid?: The results of our bids can be accessed through the City’s new electronic bidding software at the link below.
Bids, RFPs, and RFQs

12. Whom do I call if I have a question?: Please refer to the contact information provided in each Bid, RFP or RFQ.

▼
Recycling

Show All Answers

1. Can I recycle magazines and telephone books in the curbside recycling program at my home?: Yes. The materials may be included in with your mixed paper. Mixed paper can include newspaper, copy paper, envelopes, other junk mail (please remove all plastic associated with junk mail), magazines and telephone books. If you have large amounts of paper, we ask that you bring the materials to either recycling drop off site located at 1420 South Happy Hollow Road and/or 735 West North Street.

2. Can I use plastic grocery / retail bags to bundle or sack newspaper, paperboard and junk mail?: No. Plastic grocery bags are not accepted in our recycling program. These bags are currently only recyclable at the stores where they originated. Please recycle your bags at these stores, which have recycling boxes at their entrances. To keep newspaper, paperboard and mixed paper separate, we suggest that you use two recycling bins, one for containers and one for paper, newspaper and paperboard. If you only want to use one bin, we ask that you stack your newspaper, junk mail and paperboard neatly in your bin to allow for quick sorting by our drivers. You may bag newspaper, mixed paper and paperboard in paper grocery bags if you have them available.

3. Can I recycle large amounts of cardboard and paper?: Yes, although the curbside collection program cannot collect piles of cardboard in excess of 3 feet by 3 feet or numerous bags of shredded paper. If you have large volumes of these please bring them down to either recycling drop off located at 1420 South Happy Hollow Road by the Recycling and Trash Collection office or at the Marion Orton Recycling Center located at 735 West North Street.

4. Are all plastics recyclable in our community?: No, at this time we can only accept bottles labeled with a #1 and #2 recycling triangle. To find out the number of a plastic bottle or container look near the bottom of the bottle or container to see its plastic resin code. #1 and #2 bottles and jugs make up approximately 96% of all bottles in the market place and are usually targeted in recycling programs. The reason all plastics can't be mixed together for recycling is because of the way plastics are made. There are two main processes for forming plastic containers - blow molding and injection molding. In a blow molding process, the plastic is blown into a particular shape, like a bottle, whereas in the injection mold the plastic resin is injected into a mold that forms a particular shape, like a butter tub. The resins from a soda bottle and salad container might be the same but the different processes used to create them use different chemicals that change the melt index of the container, which means they do not melt at the same temperature. Therefore we are only able to accept #1 and #2 plastic bottles at this time. Just remember to "check the neck" - the definition of a bottle is the neck is smaller than the base of the bottle.

5. Can I use another bin or do I have to use the City of Fayetteville recycling bins?: No. Because the recycling trucks that collect your curbside recycling are specially designed for the size of the city recycling bins, we ask that you please use our bins. These bins are made out of 50% post consumer recycled plastic! Additional bins can be purchased from the Recycling and Trash Collection Division for a small fee. Residents receive two bins for free when participating in the recycling program. Also, please remember to use the black lid that is supplied with the bin. The lids keep materials dry on rainy days and help contain litter by keeping items in the bin.

6. What if one recycling bin is not enough?: Residents receive two bins for free when participating in the recycling program. Using two bins is ideal: one for glass, plastic, and metal containers, and one for paper and paperboard. Additional bins are available by calling our Recycling and Trash Collection Office at 479-575-8398. Additional bins cost $13.63 plus tax, and can be picked up at the Recycling and Trash Collection Office located at 1560 South Happy Hollow Road.

7. I can't remember, what items are recycled in Fayetteville?: We recycle newspaper, mixed paper (junk mail, magazines, phone books, copy paper, etc.), paperboard (cereal boxes, etc.), cardboard, plastic bottles coded #1 and #2, aluminum cans, steel cans, and brown, green and clear glass containers. We do not accept all other plastics not coded as a #1 and #2 bottle or jug, windows, light bulbs, ceramics, Pyrex or similar items. Protect our recycling truck drivers - please make sure all materials are clean and free from trash contamination.

8. Can I recycle my Christmas tree?: Yes. The Recycling and Trash Collection Division recycles Christmas trees each year through the composting program. Collection crews will pick up your real Christmas tree if it is placed out properly for collection. Only real trees will be collected, no artificial trees are picked up in this program. Please remove all lights, stands, decorations, tinsel and other items placed on the tree. Place the tree at your curb on your normal trash day. Crews will pick up the trees starting after Christmas until the end of January. After that time residents can bring their trees to the compost facility during normal operating hours.

9. Where can I take household hazardous waste like jet cartridges and batteries, electronic waste, and tires?: Residents can take their hazardous waste such as cleaners, batteries, fluorescent lightbulbs (containing mercury), oil based paints (no latex paint accepted), sharps, automotive and cooking oil and aerosol cans to the Household Hazardous Waste trailer which is available every Thursday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the corner of S. Happy Hollow and 15th St. in Fayetteville. Note: we do NOT accept electronics or latex paints at the Fayetteville trailer.

▼
Residential Parking Programs

Show All Answers

1. What areas are eligible for Residential Parking Permits?: Currently, Residential Parking Permits are available for residents of the Entertainment District and the Wilson Park South Neighborhood District. A map of each area can be found on the Parking website.

2. How do I get a residential parking permit?: You can download the instructions and enrollment form from the Parking website. The Enrollment Form can also be completed online. You may also obtain forms at the Parking Management Office located at 416 W. Spring Street.

3. What documents do I need to present to obtain a residential parking permit?: A current vehicle registration for the vehicle that the permit will be issued to, one form of proof of residency, and a completed enrollment form.

4. What are the acceptable forms for proof of residency?

Acceptable forms for proof of residency include: current vehicle registration, property tax bill, residential lease agreement, current utility bill, and valid driver’s license.

Please note: Proof of Residency must include the applicant’s name and the address within the District.

5. Where do I place my residential permit sticker?: Your permit sticker should adhere to the lower left hand corner on the inside of the vehicle windshield.

6. Can I use my residential parking permit on another vehicle?: Permits are non-transferable and are only valid for the assigned vehicle.

7. What are the renewal periods for residential parking permits?: The renewal periods are annually for home owners and semi-annually for renters.

8. How do visitors of the residents park in the residential zones?: Each resident may apply for guest permits at the time they obtain their residential parking permit. Two guest permit hang tags are available per residence.

9. How do services vehicles park in the residential area?: Company vehicles must use a resident guest pass. For an extended stay, vendors may apply for a temporary hang tag through the Parking Management Office. These will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

▼
Short-Term Rentals

Show All Answers

1. What do I need to apply for my Short-Term Rental (STR) business license?

To apply for a business license, you will need the property owner’s information including legal name, mailing address, immediate contact phone number, and immediate contact e-mail address. You will also need:

Information for the dwelling unit subject to the application, inclusive of the physical street address assigned by the City.
The type and total number of dwelling units located on the lot of record containing the dwelling unit subject to the application.
If the owner is not their own agent, the owner designated agent’s information including legal name, mailing address, immediate contact phone number and immediate contact e-mail address.
Proof of vacation rental or short-term rental insurance coverage.
- Policy must list the short-term rental property address and have a rider or statement indicating the property is covered when being used as a short-term rental. An insurance binder, summary, or EOI may be submitted.
Proof of ownership or long-term lease agreement. Please provide one of the following items to show proof of ownership for the short-term rental property.
- Warranty Deed
- Property Tax
- Mortgage statement from bank with property owner name and property address
- Homestead Tax Credit
- Long-term lease agreement stating property can be used as a short-term rental
Hotel, Motel, Restaurant (HMR) Tax Forms if required.
- HMR Data Sheet
- HMR Gross Receipts Tax Report (for future use to report receipts)
An approved Conditional Use Permit for Type 2 units in a residential zoning district prior to the City issuing a short-term rental business license. Check the zoning of your STR property on our Zoning Map.
Any additional data as deemed necessary or desirable for license approval by the Development Services Director.

2. How much does an STR business license cost?: Fees include a $47 application fee and a $20 inspection fee. All business licenses expire on October 31st each year. Renewal fees for short-term rentals are $47. Late fees are assessed as follows after the license expires on October 31st: November - $58; December - $61; January 1 or after - $72.

3. What to expect after applying.

The application process could take up to four weeks and includes the following.

Planning Review - call 479-575-8267 for questions regarding zoning regulations and density cap.
Accounting Review - call 479-575-8287 for an HMR packet or with questions regarding HMR requirements.
Building Safety Inspection - call 479-575-8238 with questions regarding the life safety inspection. View the inspection checklist.

4. Which residential zoning districts require a conditional use permit?

R-A; RSF-.5; RSF-1; RSF-2; RSF-4; RSF-7; RSF-8; RSF-18; RI-12; RI-U; RMF-6; RMF-12; RMF-18; RMF-24; RMF-40; NC.

Check the zoning of your STR property on our Zoning Map.

5. Could my CUP application for a Type 2 STR be denied?

Conditional Use Permits for short-term rentals in residential zoning districts may be subject to denial or additional conditions based upon the Planning Commission's findings on the following factors:

Adequate parking infrastructure;
Adequate adjoining or nearby streets for on-street parking;
Frequency or concentration of nearby licensed Type 2 short-term rentals; and
Prior zoning or code violations.

6. What is the density cap for Type 2 STRs?

A city-wide density cap of 2% of all dwelling units in the Fayetteville city limits may be utilized as Type 2 rentals. Total dwelling units are determined from current United States Census Bureau and/or American Community Survey numbers, whichever number is higher. A conditional use permit may not permit:

(a) More Type 2 short-term rentals than what is allowed by the city-wide density cap. Type 2 short-term rentals in commercial and mixed-use zoning districts where hotel/motels are permitted by right shall not contribute to the city-wide density cap.

(b) More than 10% or a single unit whichever is greater; of total dwelling units as Type 2 rentals within a multi-family dwelling complex.

(c) Individual 2-, 3- and 4-family buildings that are owned by the same person or entity and are not a part of a multi-family complex shall have no more than one (1) Type 2 short-term rental unit per building complex.

(d) Where attached residential units are held separately through condominium association, horizontal property regime, fee simple, or similar ownership structure, no cap shall be applied to buildings with attached residential dwellings. Structures of attached residential dwellings where applicants seek more than 10% of total units for licensing as Type 2 rentals shall be evaluated by the Building Safety Director and/or Fire Marshal for adequate fire protection as defined by the adopted Arkansas Fire Prevention Code. Where inadequate fire protection is identified, improvements may be required prior to issuance of a business license.

Type 2 short-term rentals may be permitted in all zoning districts where hotel/motel uses are permitted by right and shall not count towards the Type 2 short-term rental density cap in these districts except in multi-family buildings as specified in Chapter 118 of the Fayetteville City Code.

7. What are the requirements for operating an STR?: Short-Term Rental Operating Requirements

▼
Solid Waste

Show All Answers

1. What do you mean by Fayetteville having a Pay As You Throw Trash Program?

Fayetteville’s Pay As You Throw (PAYT) Residential Trash Program means just that, the more trash you throw out on a weekly basis the more money it will cost you. Each residence has a choice of 3 sizes for their trash cart; 32, 64, and 96 gallon sizes are available. Each size has a different rate assigned to it. View current rates.

It is important to know that each residence should get the size cart that is designed to handle the weekly volumes of trash from that household. The 32 gallon is for 1 bag of trash or less, the 64 is for up to 2 bags of trash, and the 96 gallon is for up to 3 bags of trash. Overfilling carts is not recommended and will billed for each extra bag visible above the rim of the cart. Please make sure the cart lid is closed completely to avoid extra bag charges. The PAYT program is highly recommended by the EPA as a means to reduce waste and provide a fairer system for those who reduce and recycle. Anybody can reduce the waste they produce by fully using the recycling program and avoiding wasteful practices. You can make a difference!

Pay-As-You-Throw Trash Cart Program Page

2. What do I do if I've got more trash than can fit into my cart on collection day?: Each single-family residence and duplexes receive four (4) virtual stickers each year for extra trash occasions. These virtual stickers are allotted to your water account and are not physical stickers as in years past. Trash bags set at the curb outside of the carts will be collected and an extra bag charge will be added if the four virtual stickers are already accounted for through the water bill.

3. Can I place loose trash in my cart?: No. It is highly suggested to bag all trash before placing into your cart. Loose trash has the potential to blow out of the cart while dumping and can cause litter problems. Bagging trash will also reduce the odor of your cart helping it to remain clean.

4. Does it matter how the cart is set out for collection?: Yes. Please place the cart at your curb with the handle away from the street and at least 6 feet from any obstruction such as a mailbox or utility pole. Never park in front of the cart. Do not set your cart out in front of your neighbors house. Always have your cart out by 5 a.m. to ensure collection. It is best to place the cart out the night before to ensure pick up. We cannot guarantee a certain time of collection each week. Always remove your cart from the curb after collection and place back at your home. Do not leave your cart at the curb all week.

5. What are the procedures for setting and retrieving my cart?: All carts, recycling bins and yard waste should be placed out on designated collection days by 5 a.m. It is best to have the carts and bins set out the night before to ensure collection. By city ordinance, do not place carts out earlier than 12 hours before collection day and always remove your cart no later than 12 hours after collection has occurred. Do not leave your cart at the curb all week.

6. What do I do if my cart is stolen or damaged?: If your cart is stolen or damaged please call the Recycling and Trash Collection office at 479-575-8398 to schedule a repair or replacement. Damage caused by intentionally setting contents of the cart on fire will be the responsibility of the resident to cover replacement costs.

7. What do I do with large items that are considered bulky waste?

Large items that cannot fit into your trash cart are considered bulky waste and are collected separately. These items usually consist of furniture and appliances. Only single family residences may participate in the program. Multi-unit, private drives, commercial businesses and apartment complexes are exempt from this program. All accounts may bring items to the Transfer Station during normal operating hours for a fee. Ward clean ups are also available for bulky waste (see Ward Bulky Waste cleanups FAQ). Each single family residence is allowed one free bulky waste collection per year. Additional collections are available for $45. The Boston Mountain Solid Waste District provides a bulky waste program and can be reached at 888-426-9278 or 479-846-3005.

Bulky waste collections are divided into three categories: household furniture/large household items, metals materials and brush. Quantities are limited to 5fiveitems per collection, all items are to be from one category. Collections are scheduled through the Recycling and Trash Collection Office by calling 479-575-8398 and are set on a first-come-first-serve basis. Items must be placed by the curb by 5 a.m. on the designated collection day. Items must be placed within six feet of the right of way and not placed within four feet of any fixed objects in the ground, such as a utility meter, mailbox, or fence line. Items may not be placed under trees or low hanging power lines (17 to 20 foot clearance above items is needed). Materials should be placed out for collection no more than 24 hours prior to collection. Items will not be collected from inside a dwelling or alleyway or private drive.

Bulky waste collections for the three different categories occur on different days of the week. Any appliance item that originally contained Freon will not be collected for free in this program. There is a Freon fee per unit to pick up Freon-containing appliances. Residents can deliver appliances containing Freon to the Compost Facility during normal operating hours for a Freon fee per unit. Brush or tree limbs must be no larger than 12 feet long and 5 inches in diameter. View the Freon Recovery Request Form

Hazardous waste, paint, tires, construction debris, lumber, carpet, shingles, and remodeling debris are not included in this program. Drop box containers are available for rental by the city or should be taken directly to the landfill to handle construction debris. For drop box information, please call the Recycling and Trash Collection Office at 479-575-8398. Visit the Bulky Waste web page for more information on the Bulk Pick Up Program

Bulk Pick Up Program

8. How do I participate in the ward bulky waste cleanups?: Each year the Recycling and Trash Collection Division conducts 8 ward bulky waste cleanups. These cleanups are located in different areas of the city in coordination with the City Council. The events are scheduled in the spring and fall of each year. To find out the locations and when they are to be held please check the city website regularly. Press releases are also in the papers and the government access channel or you may call the Recycling and Trash Collection Office at 479-575-8398 to find out more information.

The cleanups are held on Saturdays from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m. They are for bulky waste items only including: furniture, appliances, construction debris from small remodeling jobs, and other similar large items. Hazardous wastes, tires, normal household trash, commercial trash, brush, dirt and medical waste are not accepted at these clean ups.

9. How do I set up the trash service?: Trash service is set up along with your water service. Visit the New Water and Sewer Services page to begin this process. You may also set up water and sewer service in person by visiting the Business Office on the first floor of City Hall.

10. I'm moving out of my house so what do I do with the trash cart?: Your trash cart is the property of the city and is assigned to your address. When you move out just leave your cart at the address. Do not take it with you for that is considered theft. Do not leave it at your neighbors house. The next occupant will have the opportunity to change the cart size if desired.

11. Can I have more than 1 trash cart?: Yes. You can have any combination of the 3 sizes that fit your needs. The rate for each size is charged to your account accordingly.

12. What if I am physically unable to get my trash and recycling to the curb?: The Recycling and Trash Collection Division provides an exemption program to disabled persons meeting certain requirements. There is no extra fee for this service. In order to qualify for the exemption program, a city resident must be able to provide state documentation proving that they are physically handicapped to the extent that they are substantially impaired from being able to transport household trash and recycling from their residence to the designated place for collection at the curb. There must also be no one residing at that address over the age of 12 years, who would be able to transport such waste from their residence to the designated place for collection. If you are a resident who qualifies for this service, and if you wish to apply for the program, please complete the application. Once the application is received and processed, a City of Fayetteville representative will contact you and inform you of your exemption status. Exemption Program Application Form (PDF)

▼
Spring Street Municipal Parking Deck

Show All Answers

1. Why are we building a parking deck?: This area needs more parking. Based on surveys city staff has done in the last year, the city's parking spaces in and around Dickson Street - numbered spaces and gated lots - have been full 208 times in 2011 (full is defined as > 90% occupancy due to in and out transitional movement). Many of these times were in conjunction with events, many of which were at the Walton Arts Center. The spaces are also full during football games and other events.

Building a deck has been discussed for many years. There was a study completed in August 2005 by Martin Alexiou Bryson (MAB) for the city and the University of Arkansas that studied parking in the area. It concluded that a 1,200 space deck was required, on the assumption that certain planned developments occurred. The study identified that 800 additional parking spaces were needed for the area if the Walton Arts Center had no changes in operation. Adding in the potential 2,500 seat theater, the parking shortfall grew to 1,200 spaces. While the theater expansion has not occurred, other development has taken place, and there are 2 large additional developments currently underway on West Avenue between Dickson and Maple. The need for 1,200 spaces is not there right now, but there is absolutely a need for more parking than currently exists. Lack of convenient parking is still one of the most common complaints the city receives about the downtown Dickson area.

For more information, please refer to the study completed in 2005. Dickson Parking Deck Feasibility Study (PDF)

2. Where is the parking deck going to be located? Why?: The city evaluated 4 potential sites near the Walton Arts Center. All of these sites are land owned by the city or jointly by the city and the University of Arkansas. The true center of mass of the Dickson area is the intersection of Dickson and West. People want to park within a relatively close distance to their destination. Other parking decks - the Dickson (formerly called the Underwood Building), the Washington County Courthouse, and the Central United Methodist deck - are further than patrons attending a more formal event or dinner want to walk, especially in cold, hot, or rainy weather.

On December 4, 2012, the City Council passed Resolution 238-12 to select the Theater Site, the block which contains the Walton Arts Center, as the future site of the Spring Street Municipal Parking Deck. Please see the full resolution for details. Resolution No. 238-12 (PDF)

3. How many parking spaces will there be?: The goal is to add approximately 300 parking spaces in the entertainment district based upon the location selected. Currently, a net gain of 235 parking spaces is anticipated. A more precise estimate cannot be determined until the final design is completed.

4. Why build this deck now? Why not wait?: The shortage of parking exists right now, established by the number of times existing parking is full. Every time a citizen, guest, or visitor comes to the area and is frustrated by the lack of parking, we create an unhappy person who may not come back again. Clearly this is not how we want to treat our citizens, their guests, or visitors. Plus, businesses in the area lose customers every time our lots are full, and the city loses both the sales tax their business generates and the parking revenue parking in a city space would create.

Construction costs are relatively low and are only likely to increase with time. Waiting on a construction project almost always causes costs to rise. Interest rates for issuing bonds are very low and are very unlikely to do anything but rise. Like construction costs, we do not know when they will start to go up, but waiting only increases the chances that they will increase. The more we have to pay in interest, the less money we have to build the deck.

5. Why are we building a deck for the Walton Arts Center?: We are not building this deck solely for the Walton Arts Center (WAC), nor for any other specific business in the area. We are building this for our citizens, guests, and visitors who visit Dickson Street and the downtown area. These are not always the same people. The customers for a football game are not the same as for a comedian at the WAC, nor for Bikes, Blues, and Bar-B-Q, nor for a regular Friday or Saturday night, nor for a Broadway play. Many different people attend each of these events. This parking deck will touch, and make life better for, many different people.

6. Will I have to pay for parking in the deck or is it free?: The parking deck will be paid parking, operated in a manner similar to the existing gated parking lots. For further information, visit our Parking Management page. Parking Management

7. How much will the deck cost to build?: The current budget for the design and construction of the parking deck and associated liner buildings is approximately $6.5 million. Precise costs will not be known until a construction contract is awarded.

8. Will paying for the deck cause parking costs to increase?: No, the building of the deck will not cause costs to increase. All revenue estimates are based on current parking prices.

9. Who is on the City’s parking deck team? Why?: The city’s parking team consists of city staff, consultants hired by the city, and incorporates consultants hired by the Walton Arts Center (WAC). The combined team is led by Development Services Director Jeremy Pate. The city element includes parking program personnel, planning staff, accounting staff, and construction management and inspection personnel. The consultant element is led by Ron Petrie of Garver Engineers, and includes representatives from AFHJ/AB Architecture, Carl Walker Parking Consultants, and a subcontract to Grubbs, Hoskyn, Barton and Wyatt Geotechnical Engineers.

Additionally, in May 2012 the Walton Arts Center hired Boora Architects to evaluate the WAC’s short and mid-range expansion needs and to identify how these expansions can integrate well with potential deck configurations. This ensures that a well thought out, integrated and comprehensive design will be developed that both meets the needs of today and allows for the expansions of the future. Because the WAC sits on one of the blocks where the deck may be built, close integration of future expansion needs is critical. In April 2013, the City Council selected Baldwin and Shell as the Construction Manager for the project, assisting with cost evaluation and construction expertise throughout the design phase. They will continue as the Construction Manager for the duration of the construction project. Parking Management Staff

10. How many levels will there be?: The parking deck is currently designed for 3 levels, with 2 grade-separated entrances onto School Avenue and Spring Street.

11. How is the City paying for the deck?: The new deck is being paid for entirely by funds received by the downtown parking program. The city issued revenue bonds that will be paid by future parking revenues.

12. Is there room for more spaces in the future?: Based upon the design chosen and input from the City Council, it was determined that the difficulty in adding additional parking levels at this location was a primary factor in going forward with a design that will not add spaces vertically in the future.

13. Will the deck meet planning and development requirements?: Yes, the deck has gone through the same planning and development process that other downtown area developments are required to meet. A member of the city’s planning staff is on the parking deck team to ensure the deck meets these requirements as the project develops. All permits will be reviewed and obtained prior to construction beginning, and inspections will take place during all phases of construction.

14. Will the deck meet the guidelines of the City of Fayetteville Downtown Master Plan?: Yes, the deck will meet the guidelines of the City of Fayetteville Downtown Master Plan that was completed in April 2004.

15. Will the deck be a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) building?: Due to the design constraints of parking decks in general, there is no LEED certification available. Some sustainable design features are being included and will be considered in the final design of the project site.

▼
Streamside Protection Ordinance

Show All Answers

1. Why is the streamside protection ordinance necessary?: For information, please view the streamside protection page.

2. I have property on a stream in the city limits. Am I affected by this ordinance?: Streams that have at least 100 acres draining into them are included. See if this includes your property by checking out the
protected streams map (PDF).

3. Why is the buffer 50 feet?: An analysis that combined the findings of 60 studies on riparian buffers across the country found that a healthy, vegetated buffer of 50 feet could reduce the pollutants that would otherwise enter waterways by 50% to 62%.

4. How do I measure the 50-foot buffer?: The 50-foot buffer is measured from the top of bank on the stream.

5. What is the top of bank? Who can help me determine where the top of bank is?: The top of bank is defined in the ordinance as “the point along a stream bank where an abrupt change in slope is evident, and where the stream is generally able to overflow the banks and enter the adjacent floodplain during flows at or exceeding the average annual high water stage.”

If you would like city staff to help you determine where the top of bank is located, please contact the City’s Floodplains Administrator at 479-444-3443.

6. Is the buffer an easement?: No. An easement allows public uses across a property. The streamside protection buffer functions like a setback. Setbacks are distances that city code requires a structure to be set back from side, rear and front property lines.

7. May I continue to use my property just as I am now?: Yes, as long as the use does not change, or the existing use is not discontinued for 6 months. However, you are encouraged to use best practices that are applicable to your situation and to read the Streamside Protection Best Practices Manual (PDF).

8. If I sell my property, are the uses still grandfathered in?: Yes. Until a use has been discontinued for 6 months, it is considered an existing use. If you currently mow your lawn right up to the stream, the next property owner can continue the same practice.

9. Is the City exempt from any part of the ordinance?: No. The city must abide by the same regulations as all private property owners who are affected. Public land affected accounts for 25%.

10. How will the City trails program be affected by the ordinance?: The City trails program will follow the practices outlined in the Best Management Practices Manual for any impervious service that is 12 feet in width. The trail will not be allowed to locate within 25 feet of a protected waterway unless the City Engineer determines there is no feasible and practical alternative. This determination will likely be made if there is an existing utility easement that would prevent the City from having to disturb even more land within 50 feet of the stream.

Examples of the some of the best practices are: Native plantings will be completed after the completion of the trail that meets or exceeds the amount of vegetation in place prior to construction; no more than 300 feet of land will be disturbed at one time; and if there is an exposed or highly eroded stream bank, the bank shall be stabilized using natural channel methods.

View the Streamside Protection Best Practices Manual (PDF)

11. Why does the City Engineer have the power to administratively change the Best Management Practices (BMP) Manual? What checks does the City Council have in place?: The Streamside BMP Manual will be administered similar to the way the city administers other manuals such as the Tree and Landscape Manual, the Drainage Criteria Manual and the Low-impact Development Manual. While the ordinance can only be modified by the City Council, staff can administratively change the manuals so that property owners can take advantage of emerging technologies without having to wait 4-6 weeks for Council approval. The BMP Manual does not contain an exhaustive list of best practices, and administrative approval provides everyone with some flexibility.

Decisions by the City Engineer can always be appealed to the City Council, and the City Council can always decide not to allow administrative approval if it chooses.

12. Why is the ordinance not a “taking?”: The City Attorney has provided a memo that details his legal option. Read the memo (PDF).

13. How does this ordinance affect property values?: Staff did not find any evidence to suggest that a riparian buffer decreased property values. There have been several studies that looked at effects on property value in a specific area, generally finding a 3% to 6% increase in the value of not only the property that had the buffer but all the properties within a ¼- to ½ -mile radius of an intact buffer.

There have also been numerous studies often cited by realtors that show the added value of mature trees on a property. We are cautious about extrapolating from the streamside buffer studies because they are specific to a location such as Tucson, Arizona, but we feel comfortable saying that a buffer would likely not decrease property value.

Approximately 64% of the buffer area is in existing floodway, which already has an adverse affect on development potential.

▼
Ticket Information

Show All Answers

1. Why did I receive a ticket while parked on the Square?: Two-hour free parking is available on the Downtown Square. Two-hour parking allows patrons to park for up to two consecutive hours within a four-hour time period. You must leave the Square on or before two hours have passed from the time you first arrived. You may not return to the Square until four hours have passed from the time you first parked. This ensures that these spaces are made available for customers visiting the area businesses and restaurants. You should park in one of the long-term parking areas if you plan to stay longer than two hours.

2. How long do I have to pay the parking ticket?: Payment is due within 14 days of the date of issue. Please be sure to include the ticket with the payment so that it will be applied properly. Failure to remit payment promptly will result in the issuance of a summons and increased fines.

3. My parking Ticket is due today. May I make a payment over the phone or online?: Payments cannot be made over the phone. However, if you have your Ticket number or license plate number, you can make payments online at https://fayetteville.citationportal.com.

4. I have a Hang Tag and parked at a permit-eligible surface parking lot but still received a ticket. Why?: One reason would be that the Hang Tag was not displayed properly. The Hang Tags must be displayed from the rear view mirror of the vehicle so that the sticker is clearly visible from the front of the vehicle. If the Hang Tag is lying on the dashboard, it is not displayed properly.

5. I have a Hang Tag for a permit-eligible surface parking lot but forgot to put it on my rearview mirror. Can my ticket be forgiven?: Parking tickets may be appealed (contested) online at www.fayetteville.citationportal.com. Please DO NOT pay the ticket while it is in the review process. An email response will be sent once the review is completed.

6. I received a ticket in the Pay and Display lot. If I bring in my receipt from the lot, will you void the ticket?: Parking tickets may be appealed (contested) online at https://fayetteville.citationportal.com/. Please DO NOT pay the ticket while it is in the review process. An email response will be sent once the review is completed.

7. I mistakenly paid the wrong meter / stall number. Can my ticket be voided?: Parking tickets may be appealed (contested) online at https://fayetteville.citationportal.com/. Please DO NOT pay the ticket while it is in the review process. An email response will be sent once the review is completed.

8. I received a ticket that says Against the Flow. Is it a mistake?

Parking against the flow of traffic is prohibited by city Ordinance 72.06 Method of Parking (below) and the State of Arkansas.

72.06 Method of Parking Pursuant to A.C.A. ’27-51-1301, a vehicle parked on any street in the city shall be parked on the right-hand side of the street, headed in the direction of traffic with its right-hand wheels parallel to and within 18 inches of the curb, except where streets have been marked for angle parking, and except that, on one-way streets, vehicles may be parked on the left-hand side of the street, unless parking is prohibited on such side. In every case, a vehicle shall be parked entirely within any lines or markings on the street designating parking spaces.

Parking against the flow creates an unsafe traffic condition because it requires vehicles to cross a lane of oncoming traffic when exiting the parking space.

▼
Transportation

Show All Answers

1. How do I report a pothole or other roadway defects?: To report a pothole or other roadway defects, contact the Transportation Division office by phone at 479-575-8228, by email, or by submitting an
Online Service Request.

2. How do I report a traffic light problem?: To report a traffic light problem, contact the Transportation Division office by phone at 479-575-8228, by email, or by submitting an
Online Service Request.

3. How do I report a street light outage?

Please be prepared to provide the following information:

Name
Address (If the light is not located at a specific address, please provide the closest available street address.)
Telephone number
Pole number

4. How can I get assistance with a flooding problem or a clogged storm drain?: The Transportation Division has a drainage maintenance program to ensure that drainage systems on or adjacent to public property are free of uncontrolled growth and blockages. To make a request for drainage maintenance, please call the Transportation Division Office at 479-575-8228, send us an email at transportation@fayetteville-ar.gov, or submit an online customer service request.

5. How do I report vegetation growing too close to power lines or street lights?

All power lines and the majority of street lights are maintained by the utility service provider (electric company) for the area in which the street light and lines are located. For the fastest service, contact the appropriate electric company directly: SWEPCO / AEP at 1-888-216-3523 or Ozarks Electric Cooperative at 1-800-521-6144.

Please be prepared to provide the following information:

Name
Address (If the light / power lines are not located at a specific address, please provide the closest available street address.)
Telephone Number
Pole Number(s) for the street light(s) into which the vegetation is growing, and/or
Pole number(s) attached to the power lines into which the vegetation is growing

6. What services does the Transportation Division provide?: The City of Fayetteville Transportation Division provides maintenance for city streets, the right-of-way, drainage systems, traffic signals, and sidewalks. Additionally, the Transportation Division constructs new traffic signals, sidewalks, and trails.

7. Is the Transportation Division responsible for the maintenance and repair of all streets located within the City of Fayetteville limits?: No, not all streets fall under the City of Fayetteville’s jurisdiction. The Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department (AHTD) maintains state highways, interstates, and access roads. For more details, visit
the Transportation Division main page.

8. How can I find the traffic count for a certain street or area in Fayetteville?: The Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department provides traffic volume counts on their website:
https://www.ardot.gov/divisions/system-information

▼
Urban Forestry - Citizen Tree Care Resources

Show All Answers

1. What is a container-grown tree?: A container-grown trees are grown in a soilless media composed of materials such as pine bark and peat moss. They are lightweight, and easier to handle than balled-and-burlapped trees. The entire root system of a container-grown plant is left intact when planted.

2. What is a balled-and-burlapped tree?: A balled-and-burlapped tree is grown in native soil and weighs more than container grown trees. The trees are harvested in the fall and as much soil as possible is retained prior to being wrapped in burlap. Balled-and-burlapped trees have a healthier root system than container grown trees.

3. What time of year should trees be planted?: It's ideal for trees to be planted in the fall. If they can not be planted in the fall, they can be planted in the spring.

4. When is a homeowner required to plant a tree?: A homeowner is required to plant a tree if they live in the (Hillside Hilltop Overlay District) HHOD and remove below the percent minimum canopy requirements. See if your house is in the Hillside Hilltop Overlay District.

5. Who maintains City Right-of-Ways?: The City of Fayetteville Transportation Department maintains City right-of-ways.

6. Do I need to maintain the Right-of-Way in front of my house?: Yes. The right-of-way in front of a homeowner's property is to be maintained by the property owner adjacent to the right-of-way. View the code that discusses right-of-way maintenance by the homeowner (Chapter 167.06 A).

7. When is the City's annual free tree giveaway?: The Urban Forestry Department hosts an annual tree giveaway every fall. The trees are free to the public upon proof of Fayetteville residency. View information about this years' annual free tree giveaway.

▼
Urban Forestry - Development Resources

Show All Answers

1. What is a mitigation tree?: A mitigation tree is defined as a tree that is being planted to make up for tree canopy lost related to new developments. Every site in Fayetteville has a required percent minimum of canopy that must be preserved. View Zoning Designations in the UDC Chapter 167.04 C, Table 1. If a development needs to go below the required percent minimum canopy amount, they are required to mitigate for the trees.

2. Where can mitigation trees be planted?: Mitigation trees can be planted on-site or off-site. If the trees are to be planted off-site, the property needs to be owned by the same property owner.

3. What is the Tree Escrow Account?: The Tree Escrow Account is an account used to house money paid in lieu of developments planting mitigation trees on-site. The amount per tree is $675. $675 is the cost to plant a tree and maintain it for 3 years. This amount is reviewed every 4 years to make sure it is in line with market value. For more information about the Tree Escrow Account please visit the Unified Development Code Chapter 167.04 J 4.

4. Who pays into the Tree Escrow Account?: The owner of the site being developed or the developer.

5. When can a developer pay into the Tree Escrow Account?: Tree escrow payments are only used as a last resort during the development process. Tree preservation on-site is always the preferred option, with on-site mitigation, off-site mitigation to be considered in descending order only if the more preferred option cannot be fully achieved. (Unified Development Code 167.04 J 4)

6. What happens to the money in the Tree Escrow Account?: Money in the Tree Escrow Account must be spent within seven years of the City receiving the funds. The account is managed by the Urban Forestry Department. The money is spent on planting trees in on City property and right-of-ways.

7. When is a developer required to plant trees?

A developer is required to plant trees in the following scenarios:

Street Trees - one street tree per 30' of street.
Parking Lot Trees - one tree per 12 parking spaces.
Detention Pond Trees - based on square footage of the detention pond.
Mitigation Trees - If the required minimum canopy percentage is not met, mitigation trees are required.

For more information about what trees are required during development, view the Landscape Regulations Chapter of the Unified Development Code.

▼
Utility Billing

Show All Answers

1. Can I pay my utility bill over the phone or on the web?: Yes, you may pay your utility bill over the phone with a check or credit card(Visa/MasterCard). Dial 844-719-3598. You may also pay your bill online using a Visa, Mastercard, or Discover credit or debit card.
Utility Bill Payment

2. Do we draft utility bills from checking and/or savings accounts?

Yes, but there are some requirements. We can only draft on accounts where our utility customer's name and the checking and/or savings account are the same name. Your utility account must be at a zero balance in order to begin drafting.

To set up automatic payments made directly from your bank account, fill out the ACH form (available here) and submit it, along with a voided check, to the Utilities Financial Services Division. You may submit these materials in person, by mail, via fax, or scan the documents and send them by email.

In Person or by Mail: Utilities Financial Services, City Hall, 113 West Mountain Street, Fayetteville, AR 72701
Via Fax: 479-575-8317
By Email: utilitybill@fayetteville-ar.gov

3. When is my bank draft taken out?: Your bank draft will be taken out on the due date listed on your utility bill.

4. When is my bill due?: Bills are due from the date they are mailed. Customers have 20 days to pay without a penalty. A 10% penalty will be assessed on the 21st day, and a disconnect notice will automatically be generated.

5. I have compared my bill to my neighbor's. Why is mine higher? We have the same size house.: Water and sewer bills are based on consumption. The national average per person per month is 2,000 to 2,500 gallons. This would be for personal hygiene usage only. Family consumption can vary greatly based on individual habits.

6. Why is the sewer portion of my bill higher than my water?: Sewer surcharges are higher than water charges. This is due to the state-of-the-art sewer treatment facility the city is required to maintain.

7. How many gallons could leak through a running toilet in the span of 10 minutes?: A running toilet could leak, depending on certain variables (size of tank or valve, water pressure, etc.) between 1 1/2 - 50 gallons, thus costing water and sewer charges.

8. Can I change my due date?: No, there are 9 billing cycles in the utility system. Meters are read according to geographic location. The week following the meter being read the cycle is billed.

▼
Wastewater

Show All Answers

1. Do the wastewater treatment plants offer recycling services?: No, but information regarding recycling services can be found at the online recycling and trash collection resource. Recycling & Trash Collection

2. What can I do with leftover chemicals / pesticides / paint?: Contact the Solid Waste and Recycling Division at 479-575-8398.

3. What if I find abandoned hazardous chemicals?: Call the Fire Department at 479-442-6131. Do not touch the chemicals or containers yourself.

4. To whom do I report illegal discharges?: For questions about domestic or industrial wastewater discharges, septic or other transported waste dump permits and limitations, or other related questions, contact the Industrial Pretreatment Program Coordinator at 479-443-3292.

5. Whom do I need to talk to about disposing leaves, appliances, or other large or unusual items?: Contact the Solid Waste and Recycling Division at 479-575-8398.

6. What number do I call to talk to someone about purchasing hay and fertilizer from the City's Biosolids Management Site?: For information on public hay and fertilizer sales or any other Biosolids Management Site-related questions, contact 479-444-0717.

7. When does the city offer hay for sale?: Hay will be offered for sale each calendar year on the 1st workday of April, starting at 7:30 a.m. Commitments will not be accepted before this time. For additional information concerning hay sales or any other Biosolids Management Site-related questions, contact 479-444-0717.

8. What type of forage is produced on the Biosolids Management Site?: Midland Bermuda grass is the primary variety of forage grown.

9. What is the method of pricing the hay from the Biosolids Management Site?: Hay prices are determined by market supply / demand, as well as the quality of the hay. For questions regarding the purchase of hay, contact 479-444-0717.

10. What federal and state environmental programs does the City of Fayetteville work with?: In addition to the services and policies offered by the City of Fayetteville, both the state and federal governments have agencies which offer information and set policies that affect the citizens and environment of the City of Fayetteville. The Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) creates programs such as adopt-a-highway and enforces vehicle and industrial emissions regulations. For more information about what they do, contact them at 501-682-0744 or through their online resource.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is a federal agency that seeks to preserve and protect the vast resources of the nation by working with local and state organizations to keep our natural resources viable and prosperous for generations to come. For more information, please contact the EPA at 214-655-6444 or visit their website. Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ

11. What is industrial waste?: Untreated industrial chemicals and hazardous / toxic waste that cannot be dumped into the City of Fayetteville sewer system. These substances, because of their chemical, physical, or biological nature, pose a potential risk to life, health, or property if they are handled improperly. Industrial waste can be dangerous to staff working on sewer pipes or in manholes. They can also inhibit the bacteriological processes at the wastewater treatment plants, contaminate biosolids, or pass through the facilities untreated into receiving streams. Industrial wastes must be pretreated before discharge or be transported for treatment or disposal.

▼
Water & Sewer Operations

Show All Answers

1. How do I report a water and sewer outage?: The City of Fayetteville relies on your calls to let us know that there is a water or sewer problem that needs to be evaluated. If you suspect a water main break, a sewer overflow, or any type of related problem, please call the Fayetteville Water and Sewer Maintenance Division.

These are all situations that require trained personnel to assess the problem and associated dangers. Be ready to identify the type of problem and its location, as well as your name, address, and contact information so that officials can contact you should we need more information. If you supply us an email address, we may be able to update you by email on our progress of correcting the reported problem.

To report a problem, or for more information, contact the Water and Wastewater Maintenance Department. For after-hours problems of this nature, you may phone Fayetteville Police Central Dispatch for assistance at 479-587-3555 and choose option 1.
Wastewater Maintenance Department

2. Whom do I call about a missing or loose manhole, meter lid or storm drain cover?: Missing or loose manhole and meter lids are repaired and replaced through Water and Sewer Maintenance, 479-575-8386. Storm drain covers are repaired and replaced through the Fayetteville Transportation Department, 479-575-8228.

For after-hours problems of this nature, you may phone Fayetteville Police Central Dispatch at 479-587-3555, option 1.

3. I received a notice that my water supply will be interrupted for construction. What should I be prepared for?

Water stoppages are infrequent, but they do occur and it’s wise to be prepared for the emergency. The City of Fayetteville Water and Sewer Maintenance Division often knows about the problem and is working to solve it before you even call.

Before a water stoppage occurs, have a supply of bottled water to use for drinking or sponge-bathing. If you have no water, check with your neighbors to see if the problem is just with your home. With that information and the general description of the problem, call the Fayetteville Call Center to find out if the problem is mechanical or if your service has been disconnected. Our Call Center will be able to quickly assess the situation and recommend a solution to you. If your neighbors are also without water, city officials are most likely aware of the stoppage and are working to restore your service.

For more information, or to speak with a Call Center Representative, contact the Operations Center at 479-575-8386. For after-hours problems of this nature, you may phone Fayetteville Police Central Dispatch at 479-587-3555, option 1. You can also visit us online, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

4. My water is off and I am not sure why. What I should I do?

Call the Fayetteville Call Center to find out if the problem is mechanical or if your service has been disconnected. Our Call Center will be able to quickly assess the situation and recommend a solution to you.

For more information, or to speak with a Call Center Representative, contact the Business Center between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, at 479-521-1258.

5. What is the process for installing a new water or sewer tap?: Contact Engineering at 479-575-8206. Additional information can be found in Title V Public Works Code, Chapter 51.

6. How do I request utility line locates before I dig?: If you are planning to dig on your property where utilities such as electric, water, telephone, or natural gas lines may be buried, you are required by law to notify Arkansas One Call at 800-482-8998. It's a free call for you, and they notify all the utilities in your area to mark their main lines within two working days. By contacting Arkansas One Call before you dig, you will be protected from possibly serious injuries and from the liability that would result from damaging underground utilities.

7. How do I access water quality information?: Up-to-date water quality reports and information can be found on the City of Fayetteville website, and through the Beaver Water District website. There you will find public information about rain, runoff and other environmental factors and how they affect our drinking water.

If you have any water quality concerns, please contact our office at 479-575-8386. Beaver Water District

8. How do I check for a water leak at my house?: For information on water leaks, view the Water Leak Check page.

9. What is backflow?: Backflow occurs when the water in your pipes (the pipes after the water meter) flows backward (in the opposite direction of normal flow). Two situations can cause the water to flow backward (backflow). Backpressure occurs when the pressure in your pipes is greater than the pressure coming in. Backsiphonage is caused by a negative pressure in one of the pipes. To protect the water system, two kinds of backflow prevention assemblies (devices that prevent the backflow of water) are required for all business customers that present a potential hazard to the City’s water system. An external device protects the city’s water from cross connection with the water on the customer’s premises. An internal device protects the customer from potentially hazardous cross connections within their own system.

10. What kinds of hazards do backflow assemblies prevent?: Backflow prevention controls two types of hazards: pollution and contamination of your drinking water supply. A pollutant is any substance which affects the color or odor of the water, but does not pose a health hazard. A contaminant causes illness or death when ingested.

11. What is a cross connection?: A connection between your drinking water and another unapproved source of water. When a backflow condition occurs, the two sources combine, possibly contaminating the drinking water source.

12. Does my backflow prevention device need to be tested?: Yes, to ensure the device is functioning properly, the City of Fayetteville requires annual testing. Backflow preventers are mechanical units that have internal seals, springs, and moving parts that are subject to wear and fatigue. The annual test ensures a properly functioning device and certifies that the unit has not been removed or by-passed.

▼
Wildlife Habitat

Show All Answers

1. How do I get started?: It is fun and easy to create a certified habitat for wildlife on your property. Begin by going to the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) website for a complete list of criteria and resources, and to view the Backyard Habitat Certification Application.

With the application in hand, take inventory of your property. Most people find that their property already qualifies with just a few minor enhancements. The process is meant to be simple, enjoyable and inspiring.

Once you are satisfied that your property provides the basic elements of habitat (food, water, cover, places to raise young, and green landscaping practices), return your completed application to the National Wildlife Federation along with your $20 processing fee.

Once your application is processed, you will receive a certificate in the mail and will be eligible to purchase a “Certified Habitat” sign from NWF to display on your property.

Visit the NWF website.

2. Does it cost money?: Creating habitat can be done at very little expense. The National Wildlife Federation provides many no or low cost suggestions on their website.

▼
Yard Waste

Show All Answers

1. How do I participate in the Yard Waste Program?: Yard waste collection occurs weekly on the same day that your trash and recycling are collected. Leaves, grass and small amounts of brush are collected with this service. Leaves and grass should be either placed in 30 gallon paper bags available at most retail outlets in Fayetteville or placed in a old trash can clearly marked yard waste and placed curbside. Black plastic bags will not be collected with this program. Remember to leave plenty of room for the automated cart collection. If using an old trash can do not line your can with a plastic bag. Only yard waste is accepted, no food items allowed.

2. What if I have too much yard waste to fit into paper bags or cans?: When you have large amounts of brush and/or limbs, you need to arrange for a bulky waste pick-up. For information on bulky waste requirements please see Bulky Waste under the Solid Waste FAQ. To arrange for a bulky waste pickup, please call the Recycling and Trash Collection office at 479-575-8398. Small amounts of limbs and brush can be placed curbside for weekly collection. Small piles of brush / limbs need to be placed curbside and approximately 6 feet away from your trash cart. The small piles cannot exceed 3 feet in length or 5 inches in diameter. Piles should be bundled with string for easy collection. Fayetteville residents can always bring yard waste to the Compost Facility located at 1708 South Armstrong on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the first Saturday of each month from 8 a.m. to noon during the months of November through March and the first 2 Saturdays of each month during the months of April to October.

3. Can we use plastic trash bags for leaves and grass?: No. City ordinance states that yard waste can only be collected in paper bags or reusable cans. Plastic bags have been removed from the yard waste program as they are a contaminate in the composting program. We ask that anyone using the yard waste program use 30 gallon compostable paper yard waste bags or a trash can marked with the words "yard waste". Thirty gallon paper yard waste bags can be purchased at retail outlets in Fayetteville. Tree limbs and brush still have to be bundled separate from the leaves and grass.

4. During Halloween I have pumpkins and hay to dispose of, how do I get rid of them?: Pumpkins can be put in the green food waste carts at the Marion Orton Recycling Center and the Happy Hollow Recycling Center.

5. During the fall and summer months, I will have more than my usual amount of yard waste. Will they still pick it up?: Yes. The yard waste truck will come by on you regular trash day and take the material that you have out providing it complies with collection rules. Remember, no black plastic bags will be collected as all leaves and grass should be placed in 30 gallon paper bags available at local stores or placed in an old trash can clearly marked yard waste. All material must be placed to the curbside no later than 5 a.m. on you service day. It is best to have the items placed curbside the night before to ensure collection. Large amounts may require a bulk pick up. Call the Recycling and Trash Collection office at 479-575-8398 for more information.

6. What are the hours of operation, location and fees associated with the compost facility?: The Compost Facility is located at 1708 South Armstrong Avenue just past the Animal Shelter off of 15th Street in southeast Fayetteville. The site is open to the public on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. The site is also open the first Saturday of each month from 8 a.m. until noon during the months of November to March and the first 2 Saturdays of each month from 8 a.m. until noon during the months of April to October.

City of Fayetteville residents can drop off yard waste materials for free by bringing the most recent copy of their water bill. Businesses, commercial landscapers, tree trimmers and non residents can use the site for a fee. The fees are: compact pickup trucks $5, full size pickup trucks $8, trailers up to 14 feet long $10 and trailers greater than 14 feet $15. Compost and mulch products are also available for sale during operating hours if supplies are available.

7. What if I want to set up a backyard compost pile?: Backyard composting is a convenient way to reduce your waste while providing a beneficial product to use in your yard at home. There are several different ways to compost either using a homemade bin or purchasing a bin from a store. There is also a right way and a wrong way to compost in your backyard. Your neighbors will want you to do it the right way so that no odors, rodents or animals are attracted to your pile. To find out the right way please contact our Waste Reduction Coordinator at 479-718-7685 for information pertaining on how to set up a working and non evasive backyard composting pile.

▼
Yvonne Richardson Community Center

Show All Answers

1. What is the purpose of the Yvonne Richardson Community Center?: To provide a place of structured recreation, socialization, and extracurricular learning for the citizens of Fayetteville, Arkansas.

2. What are the hours for the Yvonne Richardson Community Center (YRCC)?: The YRCC is open Monday - Friday from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Summer Hours (June-mid August) are reduced. See our calendar for more information.

3. Who does the Yvonne Richardson Community Center (YRCC) serve?: The doors of the YRCC are open to all citizens of all ages. However, any child under 6 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. All programs offered at the YRCC are for persons 6 years old and up.

4. What programs does the Yvonne Richardson Community Center (YRCC) offer for youth?: You can find a full listing of programs on the YRCC home page.
YRCC page

5. What programs does the Yvonne Richardson Community Center (YRCC) offer for adults?: You can find a full listing of programs on the YRCC home page.
YRCC page.

6. What programs does the Yvonne Richardson Community Center (YRCC) offer to the community?: You can find a full listing of programs on the YRCC home page.
YRCC page.

7. How can I volunteer at the Yvonne Richardson Community Center (YRCC)?: If you are interested in volunteering with any programs at the YRCC, please come by the YRCC office and fill out a volunteer application. ID is required, as the YRCC performs criminal background checks on all volunteer applicants to ensure the safety of the youth that we serve. For more information check out our opportunities listed on Givepulse.

8. Is the Yvonne Richardson Community Center (YRCC) available for rental for a special event?: Yes, the YRCC is available to rent for special events. Please submit our online Rental Request Form available on our Rental Information page.

9. How can I keep up with what is going on at the Yvonne Richardson Community Center (YRCC)?: Keep up with events and programs by visiting our website and following us on Facebook.

Categories

▼ Accounting & Audit

▼ Animal Services

▼ Aviation

▼ Backflow Prevention

▼ Budget & Information Management

▼ Building Safety

▼ Business License Program

▼ City Attorney

▼ City Clerk

▼ City Prosecutor

▼ Code Compliance Program

▼ Community Development

▼ Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)

▼ Community Gardens

▼ District Court

▼ District Court - Small Claims

▼ Downtown Square Area Parking

▼ Employee Parking Discount

▼ Engineering

▼ Engineering - Trails

▼ Entertainment District Parking

▼ Fire Department

▼ Fleet

▼ GIS

▼ Heritage and Historic Preservation Plan

▼ Hot Check Program

▼ Human Resources

▼ Mayor

▼ Online Police Reporting

▼ Parks

▼ Planning

▼ Police Department

▼ Police Department - YCPA

▼ Police Department Alarms

▼ Pre-Approved Building Design Program Pilot

▼ Purchasing

▼ Recycling

▼ Residential Parking Programs

▼ Short-Term Rentals

▼ Solid Waste

▼ Spring Street Municipal Parking Deck

▼ Streamside Protection Ordinance

▼ Ticket Information

▼ Transportation

▼ Urban Forestry - Citizen Tree Care Resources

▼ Urban Forestry - Development Resources

▼ Utility Billing

▼ Wastewater

▼ Water & Sewer Operations

▼ Wildlife Habitat

▼ Yard Waste

▼ Yvonne Richardson Community Center

Live Edit

▼
Accounting & Audit

▼
Animal Services

▼
Aviation

▼
Backflow Prevention

▼
Budget & Information Management

▼
Building Safety

▼
Business License Program

▼
City Attorney

▼
City Clerk

▼
City Prosecutor

▼
Code Compliance Program

▼
Community Development

▼
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)

▼
Community Gardens

▼
District Court

▼
District Court - Small Claims

▼
Downtown Square Area Parking

▼
Employee Parking Discount

▼
Engineering

▼
Engineering - Trails

▼
Entertainment District Parking

▼
Fire Department

▼
Fleet

▼
GIS

▼
Heritage and Historic Preservation Plan

▼
Hot Check Program

▼
Human Resources

▼
Mayor

▼
Online Police Reporting

▼
Parks

▼
Planning

▼
Police Department

▼
Police Department - YCPA

▼
Police Department Alarms

▼
Pre-Approved Building Design Program Pilot

▼
Purchasing

▼
Recycling

▼
Residential Parking Programs

▼
Short-Term Rentals

▼
Solid Waste

▼
Spring Street Municipal Parking Deck

▼
Streamside Protection Ordinance

▼
Ticket Information

▼
Transportation

▼
Urban Forestry - Citizen Tree Care Resources

▼
Urban Forestry - Development Resources

▼
Utility Billing

▼
Wastewater

▼
Water & Sewer Operations

▼
Wildlife Habitat

▼
Yard Waste

▼
Yvonne Richardson Community Center