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1. How much will my permit cost?

Building permit fees vary based on the type of project.  Click Building Permit Fee Schedule to view the fees.

2. When do I need a building permit?

Building projects such as new homes, additions, remodels plus detached buildings at 100 sq.ft. or more. In addition, permits are required for sprinkler systems, fences, swimming pools, deck, and new driveways connecting to public streets.

3. How do I obtain a building permit?

Building permit applications may be obtained at City Hall or online. Most projects require prior approval from your Architectural Review Committee. Contact the Fair Oaks Ranch Homeowners Assoc. at (210) 698-2225.

4. Are there any special requirements of contractors wishing to perform work within the City?

Contractors and subcontractors are required to register with the City. Registration forms are available at City Hall or online. A copy of an applicable contractor’s state license or registration is required to be attached to the city’s contractor registration form.

5. How do I schedule an inspection?

Inspections must be requested at least 24 hours in advance by calling (210) 698-0900.

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1. Do I need to register my dog/cat(s) with the City?

Yes, City Ordinance requires dog/cat(s) to be registered annually. A pet tag can be obtained at the Police Station or City Hall. More...

2. What Can or Cannot be Recycled?

See link below for a descriptive detail of what can and cannot be recycled in your weekly recycle bin.

Recycling Do's and Dont's

3. How do I obtain information on City Taxes?

The City property tax rate is set annually by City Council by September of each year.  The current city local sales and use tax for goods and services is 1.5%.  For complete information click on link below:

City Taxes

4. When is the regular monthly City Council meeting?

The first Thursday of every month at 9:30 a.m. and the third Thursday of every month at 6:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers at 7286 Dietz Elkhorn.

More...

5. When are City elections held?

The Election day for City council positions are held in May, annually. Please visit the Calendar section of the website for early voting days and times and election date and times.

Calendar

6. How do I obtain more information on Oak Wilt?

Review the Oak Wilt link at the end to learn more. For further needs or assistance, contact City Hall. OakWilt Info

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1. When are City Council meeting minutes available for viewing?

All public meeting minutes are available for viewing after the City Council approves the minutes at the next regular monthly meeting. The minutes are posted online within 72 hours after Council has approved them. More...

2. How do I get a copy of a City Ordinance?

City ordinances are codified through Municode or you can obtain a copy at City Hall.

3. Is notary service available at City Hall?

The City Secretary's Office performs notary services for personal matters with documents having an appropriate notary statement on it. If witnesses are required, please bring them with you. An official form of ID must be presented. Please call City Hall to confirm availability of a Notary

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1. What if I want to put a temporary sign up?

Per UDC Chapter 10, Section 10.3, Sub-section (5), by Permit, a Temporary Sign is allowed on private property. Only one Sign is allowed for a thirty (30) day period during any consecutive 4-month period. To request a Temporary Sign Permit, customers must submit, in person at City Hall the following:

• A completed Temporary Sign Application
• A completed Universal Application
• Attach a copy of the sign in question with dimensions
• $25 non-refundable Permit Fee

The Temporary Sign Application and Universal Application must be approved before erecting your sign.  Signs can only be placed on private property. Please refer to the UDC Chapter 10 for more details.

2. Where are signs allowed?

For full details on placement of personal, commercial, community-event, and real estate signs, please visit the city's Unified Development Code, Chapter 10 

3. What is my watering day and allowable hours?

Fair Oaks Ranch Utilities has a year-round mandatory watering schedule to reduce high water demand.  Watering is allowed between midnight to 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. to midnight on your designated watering day based on your street address ending in:

0-1     Monday

2-3     Tuesday

4-5     Wednesday

6-7     Thursday

8-9     Friday

Weekend watering is not allowed.  Please click here to for additional details.

4. Where can I report a non-emergency problem in our city?

To report a non-emergency problem such illegal dumping, feeding deer, not sealing of oak wounds, etc. please submit the details on the Citizen Problem Reporter.

5. What does it mean if I receive an Ordinance or Code Violation Notice?

If you receive a Warning Notice or Final Notice for an Ordinance or Code violation, it means there is a compliance concern. All questions and inquiries need to be brought to the Code Compliance Officer who can be reached at 210-698-0900.

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1. Where is the vaccine available?

Texas continues to receive doses of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines, and is distributing statewide to hospitals, pharmacies, local health departments, freestanding ERs and other clinics. As vaccine availability increases in 2021, people will be able to get vaccinated at doctor’s offices, pharmacies, hospitals and other approved sites. You should contact your regular provider of vaccines to see whether they will be a provider of the COVID-19 vaccine. You can also visit the DSHS website for more information on where the vaccine is currently available.

2. Who can get the vaccine now?

According to the DSHS website  frontline healthcare workers and residents at long-term care facilities (called Phase 1A) plus people over 65 with a chronic medical condition that puts at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19 (called Phase 1B) are currently eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

Phase 1B recipients include:

• People 65 years of age and older
• People 16 years of age and older with at least one chronic medical condition that puts them at increased risk for severe illness from the virus that causes COVID-19, such as but not limited to:
  • Cancer
  • Chronic kidney disease
  • COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
  • Heart conditions, such as heart failure, coronary artery disease or cardiomyopathies
  • Solid organ transplantation
  • Obesity and severe obesity (body mass index of 30 kg/m2 or higher)
  • Pregnancy
  • Sickle cell disease
  • Type 2 diabetes

3. How is the vaccine being distributed?

According to the DSHS website the Texas Commissioner of Health appointed an Expert Vaccine Allocation Panel (EVAP) of subject matter experts to make recommendations on vaccine allocation decisions.  This includes identifying groups that should be vaccinated first.  The goal is to provide the most protection to vulnerable populations and critical state resources.  Other groups will receive vaccines in coming months, as more vaccines are made available. We encourage you to check the DSHS website for the latest vaccine availability in Texas.

4. How was the vaccine developed?

The federal government, under the umbrella of Operation Warp Speed has been working since the start of the pandemic to make a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine available. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) carefully reviews all safety data from clinical trials and an authorizes emergency vaccine use only when the expected benefits outweigh potential risks. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) reviews all safety data before recommending any COVID-19 vaccine for use. Learn how ACIP makes vaccine recommendations. FDA and CDC will continue to monitor the safety of COVID-19 vaccines, to make sure even very rare side effects are identified.

5. If I'm eligible for the vaccine now, how do I get one?

The week of January 11, Texas will direct most COVID-19 vaccines received to large sites or hubs around the state to vaccinate more than 100,000 people.

• The goal of this plan is to provide more people the vaccine and a simpler way to sign up for an appointment.
• Providers will focus on vaccinating areas and populations hardest hit by COVID-19.

If you are in Phase 1 and eligible to receive the vaccine, please check the COVID‑19 Vaccination Hub Providers page to find a hub near you and learn how to register.

Alternately, you can also check the websites of vaccine providers listed on the Texas COVID‑19 Vaccine Availability map to see if they have enough vaccine supply at this time.

Remember:

• Do not show up at a hospital or clinic looking for vaccine.
• Instead please check their website for information about vaccine availability.
• Call only if the website doesn’t answer your questions.

Vaccine hubs aim to provide more vaccines quicker and easier. Texas vaccine supply is limited (but more arrives every week) and it will take time to vaccinate all.

6. What should I do to protect myself and others before a vaccine is available?

Practice the same safety habits you’ve been doing to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Take the following precautions to limit exposure for yourself and others:

• Wear a mask or cloth face covering in public and when around people who don’t live in your household, especially when social distancing is not possible.
• Practice social distancing and avoid close contact with others:
  • Outside your home: Stay at least 6 feet away from others and avoid crowded places.
  • Inside your home: Avoid close contact with household members who are sick. Avoid sharing personal items and use a separate room and bathroom for sick household members, if possible.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
• Clean and disinfect frequently-touched objects and surfaces using a household disinfectant on List N: Disinfectants for COVID-19.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands.
• Stay home when you are sick.

7. What additional resources are available?

• Texas Department of State Health Services: COVID-19 Vaccine Information
• Texas Department of State Health Services: COVID-19 Vaccination Plan
• Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19 Vaccination
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: COVID-19 Vaccine Information
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: COVID-19 Vaccination Program Playbook (PDF)
• Food and Drug Administration: COVID-19 Vaccine Information

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1. Where do I send my application and/or resume for a job posting?

All applicants are required to submit a City application. You may submit a resume in addition to your application. You can download an application from the "Employment Opportunities" page. You can submit your application by email, mail or drop it off during business hours.

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1. Why must I appear in Court?

The law requires you to appear in court on your case. If you were issued a citation, your appearance date is located at the bottom of the citation. In some cases, you may handle your ticket before your court date with the Court Clerk in person or by phoning (210)698-0983. Failing to appear before or on your required court date, may result in a warrant being issued for your arrest.

2. When is my Court day?

Please refer to your citation as to the date of your appearance. The appearance date listed on citation is your deadline to take care of your citation at the court window, through the mail or online.  If you would to be given an opportunity to go before the Judge, you will need to appear at the court window,k request a court setting and complete the paperwork.

3. What forms of payment can be used to pay a citation?

Municipal Court accepts cash, VISA/MasterCard/Discover (2.5% fee applies), checks, money orders, and cashier checks. Municipal Court does not accept checks for warrant payments.

Full payment of your citation may also be paid online by an accepted credit card only if you are not requesting Deferment or to take a Defensive Driving Course. NOTE: Paying online will constitute a conviction and will be reported towards your driving record.

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1. Will the Police Department watch my house when I am out of town?

The Police Department does offer a Home Watch Program to provide special attention to homes of those residents leaving their home unattended for an extended period of time. Please contact the department during normal business hours at (210) 698-0990 to arrange to have your home added to the program during your travels.

2. Can I operate my golf cart on City streets?

Golf carts are considered motor vehicles and only licensed drivers may operate a golf cart on City streets. Please be advised that failing to have a driver's license may result in a citation for operating a motor vehicle without a valid driver's license. Parents allowing an unlicensed driver to operate a golf cart on City streets may be issued a citation for allowing an unlicensed driver to operate a motor vehicle. Your cooperation in restricting the use of golf carts to licensed drivers only will go a long way in reducing the safety hazard on our roadways.  

For more FAQs on operating golf carts on public street, click here.

3. Can I put up garage sale signs?

One garage sale sign is permitted per street frontage at the address of the sale; no signs are allowed in the street right of way.

4. What do I do about a baby deer in my yard?

If you find a deer fawn that appears to be abandoned, remember that deer fawns are born with natural camouflage and a lack of scent. In the first few days of their lives, the newborns are not mobile enough to travel with their mothers. As a defensive tactic, the mothers hide their newborn(s) from nearby predators and will often leave the young animals alone for long periods of time. After a few days, the fawns are usually strong enough to join their mothers and the herd, where there is more protection. When a fawn is touched by humans, it leaves a scent and quite often the mother will abandon the fawn. Please do not touch the baby deer.

5. How do I contact the Fair Oaks Ranch Police Department?

For all emergencies call 9-1-l. For non-emergencies call (830) 249-8645. The Police Department offices are open Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm and can be reached at (210)698-0990.

6. Can I get my fingerprints taken?

This service is provided at no charge to Fair Oaks Ranch residents. Please contact the department during normal business hours at(210)698-0990 to arrange to have an officer take your prints.

7. What do I do if I have a complaint regarding an animal (barking dog, etc.)?

If you have a complaint regarding a barking or stray dog, contact the 24 hour non-emergency number at (830) 249-8645

8. Does my dog or cat need registration tags?

All dogs and cats over four months of age must be licensed within 30 days of ownership of the animal. Licenses are available at Fair Oaks Ranch City Hall.

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1. When are the meters read?

Typically the meters are read the last three to four work days of every month.

2. What is my watering day?

Irrigation of landscaped areas with hose-end sprinklers, soaker hoses, or automatic irrigation systems shall be limited to once a week between the hours of midnight to 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. to midnight on the authorized watering day according to the following schedule (no weekend watering): Street Address Ending in: 0 or 1 - Monday 2 or 3 - Tuesday 4 or 5 - Wednesday 6 or 7 - Thursday 8 or 9 - Friday

3. What forms of payment are accepted to pay for water/sewer bills?

The City accepts cash, check, VISA, Mastercard or Discover (2.5% fee applies), and bank draft.

4. How do I check for a water leak?

Make sure all water systems are turned off (kitchen faucet, bathrooms, irrigation system, hose bibbs, etc.). Check your water meter and examine if any dials are moving. If a dial is moving, then there is a leak on your side of the meter.

5. I just installed a new water softener, what is the City's water hardness level?

You can find the latest recorded water hardness in the annual Water Quality Report. Note that the water hardness is typically recorded in mg/L; however, several water softener manufacturers require one to know the grains/gallon concentration. The conversion factor is 1 grain/gallon (US) = 17.1180612106 mg/L. For example: if the City's water hardness is 200 mg/L, then the conversion calculates to 11.68 grains/gallon.
In the 2015 Annual Drinking Water Report the average hardness as Ca/Mg level was 267.7 mg/L. This calculates as 15.64 grains/gallon. 2015 Water Quality Report

6. How do I turn the water off to my house if I need plumbing work done?

You should call the Fair Oaks Ranch Utility Department at 210-698-7685 and have a technician come by your home to turn the water off at the meter using the curb stop. Unless it's an emergency situation, only city utility technicians are authorized to turn the water on and off using the curb stop. City Ordinance requires all new homes to have a cut-off valve installed on the customer side within three (3) feet of the meter. Installation of your own cut-off valve will allow you to turn your water on and off when you wish and will avoid the chance of damaging city equipment.