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1. What should I teach my child about calling 911?

While many children are familiar with dialing 911 in an emergency situation, they often do not know other important information, such as their address or how to reach a parent at work. Experts recommend that you begin teaching your child this important information at about age three:

• Teach your children their full names, their parents’ full names, their home address and phone number with area code.
• Teach your children the name of your employer and the phone number.
• Teach your children what an emergency is and when to call 911.
• Teach your children how to hold the phone properly so that they can speak clearly into the phone.
• Teach your children that it is against the law to call 911 as a joke or prank.
• Teach your children not to be afraid to call 911.

Teaching your children to call you at work before calling 911 wastes valuable time. Give them permission to call 911 if they think there is an emergency.

Attempt to stay calm when you are talking to a 911 dispatcher. Take a deep breath. Listen to and answer each question. Do not hang up after dialing 911 until the dispatcher tells you to do so (even if you did not mean to dial 911).

2. Should I call 911 when my utilities stop working?

You need to contact your individual utility companies, who provide phone, gas, water, and electric services to your home. If it is an after hours need for a city service such as payment or re-connection, you may contact Henderson Dispatch at 270-827-8700 and we can contact the on-call personnel to assist with your need.

3. Can I remain anonymous?

Yes! However, in some cases, receiving information anonymously can limit the power of the police to act.

When you call the police to report a crime or a suspicious incident, the dispatcher you speak with will ask your name and other identifying information. The information can be used so that we can contact you if that ever becomes necessary. If you don't want to share your personal information, just tell the dispatcher "I'd like to remain anonymous, please." Your identifying information will not be entered into the computer system.

When we receive anonymous information, we will do our best. However, the lack of your personal information limits what we can do. We aren't able to call you back to ask for clarifying information. 

Either way, please call us with your concern! Consider sharing your identifying information so we can do the best job of keeping your neighborhood safe. Regardless, if you decide to remain anonymous, we'll do everything we can to investigate your complaint.

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1. May anyone come and ask a question at a meeting of the Board of Commissioners?

Citizens are always welcome to attend the meetings, but it may be possible to get a quicker answer by calling (270) 831-1200.

2. What do I do if I have received a violation notice from Code Enforcement?

When a violation notice is sent, the property owner is given a time frame in which to comply with the corrective action listed. If you have received a notice and are unable to make the corrections within the time allowed, you must call Code Enforcement at (270) 831-1277 and speak directly to the inspector that issued the violation. It is our goal to encourage voluntary compliance to correct violations and we will work with property owners whenever possible.

3. When are the meetings of the Board of Commissioners?

Regular city commission meetings are on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, beginning at 5:30 pm. The Board of Commissioners also holds a work session on the third Tuesday of each month, beginning at 5:30 pm. All meetings are held in the third floor Assembly Room at the Municipal Center, located at 222 First Street.

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1. May anyone come and ask a question at a meeting of the Board of Commissioners?

Citizens are always welcome to attend the meetings, but it may be possible to get a quicker answer by calling (270) 831-1200.

2. When are the meetings of the Board of Commissioners?

Regular city commission meetings are on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, beginning at 5:30 pm. The Board of Commissioners also holds a work session on the third Tuesday of each month, beginning at 5:30 pm. All meetings are held in the third floor Assembly Room at the Municipal Center, located at 222 First Street.

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1. Do you have a payment plan to buy grave spaces?

Yes. Please contact our office at (270) 831-1274 for information.

2. How do I get a death date cut on an existing monument?

You would need to contact a monument company to have this done.

3. How do I get a low spot in a grave filled in, grass planted on the grave, or a monument straightened or leveled?

Contact our office at (270) 831-1274, give us the name of the person buried in that particular space, and we will write a work order and our cemetery employees will take care of it.

4. How much are grave spaces?

• Fernwood Section A and B: $1,255.00 per space
• Fairmont Section C: $835.00 per space
• Section F and G: $1,255.00 per space

5. What are the cemetery hours?

The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am - 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Cemeteries are open seven days a week and close at dark.

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1. Are there any special requirements for a swimming pool?

Private swimming pools, hot tubs, and spas containing water more than 24 inches in depth shall be completely surrounded by a fence or barrier at least 48 inches in height. Gates and doors shall be self-closing and self-latching.

2. Can Code Enforcement do anything about limbs from my neighbor’s tree hanging over my property?

No. Issues between property owners regarding trees are civil matters and therefore not under the authority of Code Enforcement. You should consult with an attorney regarding such matters.

3. Can I remain anonymous when reporting a code complaint?

Yes, complaints may be made anonymously. An exception to this would be if a complaint was made about interior conditions of rental property. The code inspector must have a name and contact number and the consent of the tenant in order to schedule an interior inspection.

4. Do I need a permit for a storage building? Why?

All accessory structures require a permit to approve the location of the structure (i.e. property line setbacks, setbacks from other structures, easements, etc.). Storage buildings over 120 square feet require additional information to ensure it is constructed per the Kentucky Building Code.

5. Do I need a permit to put up a fence?

Depending on the height and location, you may or may not need a permit to put up a fence. You should, however, always contact Code Enforcement for guidance before putting any accessory structure on your property.

6. How tall does grass / weeds have to be before it is a violation?

Ten inches.

7. What can be done about my neighbor’s dogs barking all night?

Barking dogs and other noise related complaints should be reported to the Henderson Police Department by dialing 9-1-1.

8. What do I do if I have received a violation notice from Code Enforcement?

When a violation notice is sent, the property owner is given a time frame in which to comply with the corrective action listed. If you have received a notice and are unable to make the corrections within the time allowed, you must call Code Enforcement and speak directly to the inspector that issued the violation. It is our goal to encourage voluntary compliance to correct violations and we will work with property owners whenever possible.

9. What information do I need to submit with a permit application?

It differs depending on permit type, each application lists specific requirements on the front page. If there is any question as to what is needed, the applicant should call Code Enforcement for guidance.

10. Where can I place yard sale signs?

Yard sale signs can only be placed at the location of the sale. Each residential address may have up to four signs, each sign up to 6 square feet. All signs must be placed at least 10 feet from the street. You may not place yard sale signs on utility poles, fences, or in the city’s right-of-ways.

11. Where do I get an electrical permit?

Although the electrical inspector is housed in the office of Code Enforcement, electrical permits must be applied for by a licensed electrician and obtained through Henderson Municipal Power & Light (HMP&L) by calling (270) 826-2726. Likewise, all inspections must be scheduled by HMP&L.

12. Who enforces the smoking ordinance?

The smoking ordinance is enforced by the Henderson Police Department. You may call (270) 831-1295 for more information.

13. Why does it take so long to get a violation corrected after it is reported?

When Code Enforcement receives a complaint it has to be verified by an inspector. The property owner must then receive legal notification of the violation and be given a reasonable amount of time to comply with the corrective action. Code Enforcement can only take additional action to resolve the situation once this notification process has been satisfied.

14. Will Code Enforcement respond to a complaint of inoperable and / or unlicensed vehicle on the street?

No, Code Enforcement only has authority regarding vehicles parked on private property. Complaints regarding an inoperable and / or unlicensed vehicle parked on the street should be reported to the Henderson Police Department by dialing 9-1-1.

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1. Are housing applications available online?

No, applications are mailed to homeowners on our waiting list once funding has been obtained and a new project is ready to start.

2. Can I call help in for other citizens?

A name can be placed on our waiting list by the homeowner themselves or by a concerned friend or family member. You can call Community Development at (270) 831-1277.

3. How do I apply for a minor exterior repair program through World Changers?

You can be placed on the waiting list for assistance for World Changers by calling Community Development at (270) 831-1277. You will be asked for your name, address, phone number, and the type of work you are requesting. Everyone on the waiting list will be mailed an application approximately five months before World Changers are scheduled to arrive. Once returned, applications are reviewed for eligibility within each program’s guidelines. Submit information online

4. How do I get help with down payment / home buyer assistance?

Contact Tammy Willett at (270) 831-1277 for information regarding down payment / home buyer assistance.

5. How do I get my house repaired or a new home built if I live in the City of Henderson?

The first step in receiving assistance through Community Development is placing a call to (270) 831-1277 or email to Tammy Willett or Theresa Richey. They will take general information and place you on a waiting list for the type of assistance being requested. Once funding is obtained, all homeowners on the waiting list will receive an application with instructions for completion. Once returned, applications are reviewed for eligibility within each program’s guidelines.

6. What are the income guidelines?

HUD’s Section 8 Income Guidelines are used to determine household income eligibility.

7. What types of repairs are done through the World Changers Program?

World Changers does a variety of exterior repairs at no cost for eligible homeowners. Repairs include, but are not limited to the following: roofing (pending pitch), siding, doors, building of accessible decks and ramps, tuck pointing, masonry, and limited painting. Window replacement is currently not a repair undertaken by World Changers. The World Changers construction coordinator is responsible for making the final determination on repairs to be made to an eligible homeowner’s home as well as determining if the home can be repaired by World Changers.

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1. Do I need a permit for a curb and/or sidewalk cut?

No, but you need to call the Engineering Division at (270) 831-1200 to inform the city that you are going to cut and to obtain specific information on replacing the curb and/or sidewalk.

2. Do I need a permit to install a driveway?

No, but you need to call the Engineering Division at (270) 831-1200 to inform the city that you are going to install a driveway and to obtain specific requirements for working in the right of way.

3. Is the alley running next to my house a city-owned or private alley?

Generally, your property deed will refer to the adjacent alleys as private or public. The Engineering Division does maintain a record of closed rights of way, including alleys. Call the Engineering Division at (270) 831-1200.

4. Where is the right of way at my house?

Every right of way is different. Call the Engineering Division at (270) 831-1200.

5. Who do I call if I want to pipe a ditch?

Call the Engineering Division at (270) 831-1200.

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1. Can I change the due date of my utility bill?

No, the area (of town) in which your account is located establishes the due date.

2. Can I pay my utility bill by credit / debit card or over the phone?

We now accept credit and debit card payments by telephone and through this website. Please see the Online Payments page for additional information. Debit cards are accepted for payments made at the Municipal Center (City Building).

3. Do I have to come to the Municipal Center to sign up for, or turn off, utility services?

Yes, this policy was established for your protection. It keep other people from having your utility services turned off.

4. How can I sign up for utility budget payment?

Just download and complete the Budget Billing Request Form and mail or deliver to the City Building. If you have any questions, please contact our office at (270) 831-1200 and ask to speak to an account representative.
Budget Billing Request Form

5. Why do I have to have a picture ID when I have my utilities turned on or off?

This policy was established for the protection of the customer. Other people will not be able to put utility services in your name.

6. Can I buy a boat/water craft trailer parking sticker by mail?

Yes. Send in a check or money order payable to the City of Henderson for the amount of $30 to: City of Henderson P.O. Box 716 Henderson, KY 42419

Also include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

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1. For what bills or invoices do you accept electronic payments?

We accept electronic payments for utility bills, property tax bills, parking tickets, City of Henderson invoices, boat launch fees, HART bus tokens, and cemetery charges. We currently do not accept electronic payments for occupational license tax payments.

2. How can I get more information about electronic payments?

If you have any questions please give us a call at (270) 831-1200.

3. How do I make a payment by telephone?

Dial the toll free number, (844) 272-9468, entity code: 100199 and follow the operator prompts for the type of payment that you wish to make.

4. How will my payment be confirmed?

The City of Henderson receives immediate confirmation of payments made via the Internet and payments made over the phone. You will receive a confirmation number of the successful payment at time of the transaction. For questions about your payment, contact an account representative at (270) 831-1200, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday.

5. I have received a utility disconnect notice for being behind on my bill. Can I still pay online and have my payment posted in time?

We recommend that you make your payment at the Municipal Center at 222 First Street, by use of cash, check, or debit card. We will be able to post the payment to the account immediately and remove you from the disconnect list. Payments of this type must be made prior to the final payment due date listed on the disconnect notice.

Additionally, you can make an electronic payment online at this website or by phone (866) 818-8116. Once payment has been made, you should contact an account representative at (270) 831-1200 with your payment confirmation number to prevent your service from being disconnected or to re-establish service if it has already been disconnected. The electronic payment must cover the entire past due amount. Additional reconnection fees may apply.

6. Is the City of Henderson getting any part of the convenience fee?

The City of Henderson does not receive any part of the convenience fee. Paymentus is an independent company that provides a service for City of Henderson customers.

7. What information will I need to make an electronic payment?

Please have your billing and payment information close by as you will need both to make a payment. Review this table to determine what information you will need from your bill or invoice.

8. What is the amount of the convenience fee?

The convenience fee will be collected in addition to the bill payment total. The amount of the fee varies according to the type of bill being paid. Refer to this chart to determine the fee amount.

9. Why is a convenience fee required?

Charge card companies charge businesses, like the City of Henderson, a percentage of the payment for processing services. In fairness to all of our customers, we need to ensure that the customers who want the convenience of paying with a charge card pay for the service. The City of Henderson does not profit from this service.

There are other low cost or no-cost means to pay your City of Henderson bill, including automatic bank drafts, checks, or placing a payment in our drop box at the Municipal Center (City Building) or using our new drop box located in the Welcome Center parking lot.

10. What is an automatic bank draft and how do I sign up for this payment plan to pay my utility bill?

Another popular method of payment is our Automatic Payment Plan (ACH). It can only be used to pay your utility bill. With this plan, a monthly bill will still be mailed to you (it will be marked "Paid by Bank Draft"). On your due date the funds will be drawn from your checking or savings account. It's great for people on the go! Download the Auto Pay Authorization form now, or pick one up at the Municipal Building. You can also request to have the form mailed to you by calling (270) 831-1200. There are no additional fees to use this payment option.

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1. Am I allowed to burn brush in my back yard in the City of Henderson?

A burn permit must be filled out and a visit from our fire inspector must be done before a burn permit is issued. Please call (270) 831-1270 to schedule an appointment.

2. Can someone come to my school or event and teach fire safety?

Call the Henderson Fire Department at (270) 831-1270 for more information or to request a visit.

3. Do I need to put a smoke detector in every room? How many do I need?

Smoke detectors should be placed outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement. On floors without bedrooms, detectors should be installed in or near living areas such as dens, living rooms, or family rooms. Remember to test the detectors regularly!

4. How do I become a firefighter?

Applications may be found on the City of Henderson’s
website at or may be obtained from Human Resources, third floor, Municipal Center.

5. How do I get a copy of a fire report?

The fire report is a public document and can be obtained by anyone. Reports are available at the Henderson Fire Department. You will need to know the date and time of the fire and the correct address where the incident occurred.

6. I called for an ambulance and a fire truck showed up first. Why?

All members of the Henderson Fire Department are trained to the EMT level. The dispatched fire crew will assess and stabilize the patient so that the patient can quickly be transported once EMS arrives.

7. If my smoke detector goes off in the middle of the night, what should I do?

You should roll out of bed and crawl to the nearest exit and leave the building. Call 9-1-1 and notify the dispatcher your address and that you need the fire department. Once you are out of the house stay out! Today, a home can burn down in less than four minutes; you may be unable to escape a burning home in less than one minute. Don't take chances. Get out as quickly as you can and call 9-1-1 from a neighbor's home.

8. What kind of fire extinguisher should I buy for my home?

Homeowners should buy an extinguisher that can handle Class A-B-C fires. This type of extinguisher is designed to extinguish fires that usually occur in homes including wood, paper, flammable liquids, and electrical fires.

9. When I am driving and I am approached by an emergency vehicle, what should I do?

When you become aware of an approaching emergency vehicle, pull to the right and stop. If you are approaching an intersection and see an emergency vehicle that is approaching the intersection from behind you or another direction, come to a stop preferably one or two car lengths back from the intersection. These simple maneuvers can result in seconds saved by the emergency vehicle and can translate into a huge difference for someone who is having a medical emergency or is experiencing a fire.

10. Why did a fire truck pass me with its lights and sirens on and then shut them off and drive normally?

In all likelihood, the company you saw had just gotten cancelled from a response. Multiple units frequently are dispatched and the first arriving unit may have determined that additional units were not needed.

11. Why do I hear a siren on Fridays at noon?

We test our emergency sirens every Friday at noon (weather permitting) to ensure that they are working properly in case of severe weather.

12. Will the fire department fill my swimming pool from a fire hydrant?

No, you may contact Henderson Water & Sewer at (270) 826-2824, and they will inform you of your options or you may refer to their website.

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1. Do I need to have my underground utilities located and marked before I dig or excavate?

Yes. Always call 8-1-1 for the protection of your property, utilities, and life. There is no cost for calling 811.

2. Who do I call about my gas bill?

Call (270) 831-1200 and ask for customer service.

3. Who do I call if I have a gas leak or gas emergency?

Call 9-1-1.

4. Who should I contact if I want natural gas service or to relocate a gas meter?

Please call 270-831-1226

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1. Can I use a calculator at the exam?

No, calculators are not allowed.

2. How do I apply for a fire or police recruit position?

Applications are accepted at any time, or in response to a job announcement. For consideration, applications must include a copy of your actual birth certificate (issued by the State Department of Vital Statistics), valid driver’s license, and high school diploma or GED. Visit How to Apply for more details. If applicable, you may include a copy of your DD214, college transcript(s), and / or relevant certifications.

• Fire recruits must be 18 years of age by the application deadline date
• Police recruits must be 21 years of age by the application deadline date

3. How long does my application stay on file?

Applications remain on file for 12 months after they are submitted to Human Resources.

4. Is my application good for more than one job posting? If yes, then how do I apply for the other position?

Yes, if you have already turned in an application for a position and another job is posted, you will need to call or come by Human Resources and request your application be submitted for other open positions.

5. What do I need to bring to the exam?

You will need to bring a photo ID to register for the exam.

6. Where are you located?

Our office is located at,

• Municipal Center
  222 First Street, Suite 308
  Henderson, KY 42420

7. Where can I obtain an application?

You may obtain an application form from Human Resources between the hours of 8:00 am and 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, or you may download the application from our website.

8. Will I receive a letter after applying for a job to let me know I can take the exam?

No, if you do not receive a telephone call from the Human Resources Department, you should report to the exam.

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1. How do I contact a city department?

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

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

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

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1. Do you have paratransit service for the elderly and persons with disabilities?

Yes, HART provides paratransit service for the elderly and persons with disabilities through the Demand Response program. More information can be found here.

2. Where do I transfer buses?

The HART transfer point located at Third and Main allows passengers to transfer buses conveniently.

3. How do I get assistance?

Call (270) 831-1249 or TDD (270) 831-1249. Our information clerks are always willing to help you find your way. When you call, be sure to state where you wish to board the bus, your destination, and the time of day you wish to make the trip.

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1. How do I know if I need an Occupational License?

Any person, partnership, or corporation engaged in any occupation or profession in the City of Henderson is required to obtain an Occupational License.

2. What is the first thing I need to do in order to obtain an Occupational License?

Whether you have an actual store in the city or you are planning to work out of your home office or garage, you first need to contact the Codes Department, located at 1990 Barret Ct, Suite B. They have an Existing Building Verification Form or the Residential Business Verification you need to complete. Once that has been completed and approved, you then need to complete the Occupational License Application, which is available on this website or in our office at the City Municipal Center, located at 222 First St. Completing the Occupational License Application and paying the $25.00 application fee gets your account established with the city.

3. How long is my license good for?

You are required to file a Net Profit Return at the end of the business’ normal tax year. For example, if you file your federal taxes on a calendar year, your Net Profit return will be due April 15, the same as your federal tax return. The due date for fiscal year filers is the same as the due date for their federal tax return. Your license will remain in good standing as long as your Net Profit Returns are filed timely.

4. What if I get a license and then I don't do any business in the city all year?

You are still required to file the Net Profit return. You will check the box marked “No Activity,” sign and date the return, and file it with the city. If you have decided to no longer conduct business within the city, you will fill in the appropriate information on the Net Profit return to make the account inactive.

5. What if I only do business for part of the year and then close or move my business out of the city?

You will need to file a final Net Profit Return and pay the tax due for the period of time that your business had activity in the City of Henderson. You will fill in the appropriate information on the Net Profit Return to make the account inactive.

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1. Can I reserve an open-air shelter?

All of our open-air shelters are first-come, first-served. There is no charge to use them.

2. How far in advance can I reserve Denton Shelter?

You can make a reservation one year to the date in advance. Call the Parks and Recreation Department at (270) 831-1274 for more details.

3. I want to get married in a park. What do I need to do?

We allow weddings in Central Park at the gazebo or fountain and also the gazebo behind Methodist Hospital. There is no charge to use any of these sites. We do ask that you call our office at (270) 831-1274 and reserve them. Decorations are permitted, but we ask that you use string or tape, not nails. And please, clean up before you leave. We now have a reservation form that we would request that you come by and fill out. We will date stamp it and give you a copy. On the day of your wedding/event you have proof that you reserved the facility in case someone else is there using the facility during your designated time.

4. Is there a height requirement for the Water Slide at Atkinson Pool?

You MUST be 48 inches tall or taller to ride the Water Slide at Atkinson Pool.

5. Can you rent Atkinson Pool?

Pool rentals are from 7:00 - 9:00 pm daily after the pool closes to the public for the day. To rent the baby pool, main pool and water slide is $275.00 for 2 hours. To rent the baby pool and main pool (no water slide) is $150.00 for 2 hours. This includes lifeguards. To check available dates, please call Atkinson Pool.

6. What are the hours of operation for the water feature at the Riverfront?

Tuesday - Sunday 10:00 am - 10:30 pm. Monday is routine maintenance/cleaning day. The water feature should be in operation by 3:00 pm on Monday and run until 10:30 pm.

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1. Do I need a permit for a curb and/or sidewalk cut?

No, but you need to call the Engineering Division at (270) 831-1200 to inform the city that you are going to cut and to obtain specific information on replacing the curb and/or sidewalk.

2. How do I request a streetlight be installed at a certain location?

Send the request, in writing, to:
Office of the City Manager
Henderson Municipal Center
P.O. Box 716
Henderson, KY 42419

Please state where it is to be installed and why it is needed.

3. What are the hours at the landfill?

• Monday - Saturday
  7:00 am - 3:30 pm

Holiday schedules are posted in "The Gleaner" and WSON.

4. What day is my garbage picked up?

Call Public Works at (270) 831-1234 with the specific address.

5. What is the charge for brush / trash pickup?

$20, it will be added to your utility bill.

6. What items can you take to the transfer station or landfill?

Anything but free flowing liquids, tires, paint, oil, and batteries.

7. When is spring cleanup?

Usually in late April, but the dates will be published in "The Gleaner."

8. Where is the right-of-way at my house?

Every right-of-way is different. Call the Engineering Division at (270) 831-1200.

9. Whom do I call for a water leak and/or sewer problem?

Call Henderson Water Utility at (270) 826-2824.

10. Whom do I call for sidewalk and / or curb repair?

Call Public Works at (270) 831-1224.

11. Whom do I call if I want to pipe a ditch?

Call the Engineering Division at (270) 831-1200.

12. Whom do I call regarding trees in the power lines?

Call Municipal Power & Light at (270) 826-2726.

13. Whom do I call to complain about my neighbor's trash, grass, etc.?

Call Code Enforcement at (270) 831-1277.

14. Whom do I call when there is a sign down?

Call Public Works at (270) 831-1234.

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1. What are the hours at the landfill?

• Monday - Saturday
  7:00 am - 3:30 pm

Hours of operation are subject to change during holiday weeks. Please arrive in time to unload and exit landfill by 3:30 pm

Holiday schedules are posted in "The Gleaner" and WSON.

2. What day is my garbage picked up?

Call Public Works at (270) 854-2059 with the specific address.

3. What is the charge for brush / trash pickup?

$20, it will be added to your utility bill.

4. What items can you take to the transfer station or landfill?

Anything but free flowing liquids, tires, paint, oil, and batteries.