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Animal Control

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1. What if I have to give up my pet?

If you think you may need to give up your pet because of your circumstances or due to an issue with the animal, please consider the decision carefully as you will no longer retain any ownership rights to the animal. Surrendering Your Pet

2. Can the general public take animals to the shelter for spaying and neutering?

No, Animal Control Services does not spay or neuter animals.

3. How can I find out if Animal Control has picked up my lost pet?

If you have lost your pet, we recommend that you come to the shelter and search for your animal. If an animal turned in to the shelter has identification, we will try to locate the owner. However, only owners can correctly identify their animal.

4. What is the procedure to report an animal bite?

For a mauling or multiple-animal attack, please dial 9-1-1. Learn more by visiting the following page. Reporting an Animal Bite

5. How do I report animal cruelty?

If you suspect cruelty to an animal, you should contact your local law enforcement agency. View more details on the following page. Report Animal Cruelty

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Building Permits & Inspections

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1. What are the current building codes for the City of Plainview

Please visit the City of Plainview Building Codes website for current construction codes. City of Plainview Building Codes

2. Do I need a permit to put a storage building on my property?

If it is a 1-story, detached, residential accessory building with 200 square feet or less of floor area, you do not need a building permit or a foundation. Those over 200 square feet need both a building permit and a foundation. Call Building Inspections or Code Enforcement at (806) 296-1100 for information on the setbacks requirements or other questions.

3. Do I need a permit to re-roof my house, if I am doing the work myself?

No. If you are the property owner of the residence and you live at the residence as your homestead, you are not required to obtain a permit for roofing as long as you are doing the work yourself and are on the job site. If you hire a contractor to install the roof for you then they must obtain a roofing permit and call for inspections. All roofing contractors must obtain a roofing permit and call for inspections. The permit fee is $45.00.

4. Can I do electrical, plumbing, landscape irrigation, heating, and air conditioning work on my house?

Yes, if you own and occupy the house as your homestead and apply for an electrical, plumbing, landscape irrigation, and heating and air-conditioning permits. If the property owner hires an individual or company to do the work the property owner must hire the properly licensed individual or company to perform the work.

5. Do I need a permit to install a water heater?

Yes, a permit is required. The new water heater must also be inspected to ensure the safety of the installation. Water heater permit fees are $5.00. Please contact Building Inspections at (806) 296-1120.

6. I own a lot in the City limits. Can I set a Manufactured Home on it?

That depends on the zoning of the property, the size, and the age of the Manufactured Home. You may only install a manufactured home on locations zoned for Manufactured homes. Call our Planning and Zoning Dept. at (806) 296-1120 for more information.

7. I want to open a new business. Do I need to get any licenses or permits?

Yes. You will have to check the zoning and apply for a certificate of occupancy. Contact Planning and Zoning for more information at (806) 296-1100.

8. Does the City require registration of electrical, mechanical, landscape irrigation, and plumbing contractors?

Yes. All electrical, mechanical, and plumbing contractors must be registered with the City. All contractors must provide a copy of their license, contractor’s license, driver’s license and a copy of their certificate of insurance. The electrical, landscape irrigation and mechanical contractors must pay a $30.00 annual registration fee.

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Code Enforcement

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1. I received a letter for rubbish and trash, but I didn't put it there. Am I still responsible?

Yes. A property owner is responsible for any violations on their property.

2. What is my area of responsibility where my property is concerned?

Each property owner’s area of responsibility is from the curb and gutter in front of their property to the middle of the alley. These areas must be kept clean and clear of debris and mowed.

3. Is a property owner/tenant responsible for mowing the alley?

Yes. Each property owner/ tenant is responsible for keeping the alley cleaned and mowed to the midpoint of the alley.

4. I have a tenant living in a property that I own. Can I get a fine for their violation of an ordinance?

Yes. The City of Plainview’s Code of Ordinances requires that the owner be notified and if the violation is not abated within the required 10 day time period the owner shall be fined.

5. Am I responsible for the removal of dead trees dead trees?

Yes. Dead trees are a safety hazard especially during high winds and ice storms. Please remove all tree material to the landfill.

6. Can truck drivers park their trucks and/or trailers at their residence?

No. Truck drivers may not park their trucks in residential areas. Truck drivers are not allowed to take the trucks off of the truck routes. Truck parking is only allowed in areas zoned as C-3 and M-1, and only on paved surfaces.

7. Can I park my vehicle on the grass or side walk?

No. You may not park a vehicle on the grass or side walk. The side walk is a public right of way and you may not obstruct the side walk. You may only park your vehicle on the street or in the driveway.

8. Can I park my RV, camper, trailer, or boat with trailer in the drive way?

You may only park those types of vehicles in the front set back area of the front yard for two days out of seven consecutive days. You may not store them on the street. For more information, call a code enforcement officer at (806) 296-1140.

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Fair Theatre

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1. What shows does the Fair Theatre have coming up?

For upcoming theatre events, please view our events calendar.

2. What are the current Fair Theatre rental rates?

The Fair Theatre may be rented for the day or for smaller segments of time. Rental Rates

3. How do I purchase advance tickets?

Most production companies prefer simply to sell tickets at the door. If advance tickets are offered, special purchasing instructions will be provided within the press release or online publicity info. Production companies usually maintain possession of the tickets until the day of the show.

The theatre box office generally opens an hour prior to showtime. Patrons are encouraged to arrive 15-30 minutes early in order to purchase tickets and find their seats.

The Fair Theatre does not have credit card capabilities, but does accept cash and checks.

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Fire / EMS

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1. Why did a fire truck respond first when I called for an ambulance?

The Plainview Fire / EMS Department is a dual department. This means all of our personnel are trained and certified in both fire and EMS. We routinely send a fire truck to assist our ambulances since each ambulance only has two personnel. This allows at least four personnel on the scene to help with treatment, lifting, and loading of the patient. Secondly, there are many times that a fire truck is closer than an ambulance. This will shorten the time that it takes to get trained medical care.

2. Why does the Fire Department use water by flowing fire hydrants?

Flowing of hydrants is a vital function and is required by the Insurance Service Organization (ISO). The ISO sets the classification of our Fire Department and determines homeowner’s insurance rates. Flushing the hydrants allows us to verify that each hydrant has sufficient water pressure to provide adequate fire suppression flow for that area. It allows us to detect and repair any deficiencies in the water system, before it is needed for a fire. In addition, the flow allows us to flush out any debris or other substances that are in the water lines. This prevents any debris from entering our fire engine pumps and causing damage or disabling the fire engine during a fire.

3. I have seen ambulances and fire trucks that seem to be aimlessly wandering around town or just driving around. This seems to be a waste of taxpayers' money. Can you explain what is going on?

This is a very good question that could have many answers. First of all, we constantly have new employees at the Fire Department. As part of their initial and on-going training, they are required to learn how to safely operate the ambulances and fire units. The best way to accomplish this is to allow them to operate these vehicles under direct supervision of a more experienced firefighter.

Secondly, the firefighter may be learning a particular part of town by driving that area to familiarize themselves with the streets, dips, curves, etc.

Thirdly, we perform periodic checks of fire hydrants throughout town. This includes driving by the hydrants to check for damages, paint condition, location, etc. However, all units are available for immediate response to an emergency if needed.

4. I see ambulances and fire trucks at various businesses about town. Can you explain?

One of our responsibilities is to perform pre-fire plans and safety surveys for our local businesses. We routinely go out to businesses and look over their buildings to familiarize ourselves with the layouts and to make recommendations to help prevent fires and safety issues. When we perform these tasks, the firefighters will drive the emergency units that they are assigned to. Again, the units and personnel are all available for immediate response if needed.

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Health Department

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1. Is an appointment required?

No, we take patients on a walk-in basis. To make an appointment, contact the Health Department at (806) 293-1359.

2. How much do immunizations cost?

Immunizations cost $10 per child. This is for one shot or six, whatever is required. We accept Medicaid, cash, and checks.

3. What do I need for my child to receive immunizations?

Please bring an up-to-date shot record to ensure your child receives the correct amount of immunizations and does not receive unnecessary ones.

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Human Resources

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1. What jobs are available?

The Department of Human Resources maintains an online job posting. Applications and detailed job descriptions are also available on a self-help table in the hallway of City Hall at 901 Broadway Street. Interested applicants may also call an automated job line recording at (806) 296-1115. Select option 1040 when prompted.

For additional details, contact the Human Resources Department at (806) 296-1139.

2. How do I apply?

An application form may be downloaded and printed using our online job posting board. Completed applications may be submitted in the secure lock box on the self-help table outside the office door to the Human Resources Department. Applications may also be faxed to the City of Plainview at (806) 296-1125, or delivered in person / mailed to:
ATTN: Personnel Department
901 Broadway St.
Plainview, TX 79072

Applicants are contacted by phone or by letter only if needed for an interview.

3. How long is my application kept on file?

Applications are short-lived documents. Each application applies to the one particular job at that one time. Applications are not automatically reconsidered as future job openings become available. To be considered for other jobs, an applicant should complete and submit a new application for each job posting.

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Main Street / CVB

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1. How do I find information on area events?

For information on a variety of topics regarding the City of Plainview, Hale County, and other area entities, you can check the Main Street/CVB and Fair Theatre calendars on this website, and check the Chamber of Commerce calendar, or you can contact us at (806) 296-1119.

While we may not have all the answers to your questions, chances are good we know of someone who does. We will do our best to find an answer to your query in a timely manner. Main Street/CVB Calendar

2. Can the Plainview Entrepreneur Guide Alliance (PEGA) help me start my new business?

Yes it can. We have a number of individuals in the PEGA network who are willing to assist you in every aspect of starting your new or expanding your existing business. Please call (806) 291-1219 and we can start the process.

3. Do I need a special event permit to put on an event in Plainview?

Depending on the event, it is probably necessary to have a special event permit well before the actual date of the event. Please call (806) 296-1119 early and we will help you make sure the proper paperwork is on file for your event.

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Municipal Court

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1. How do I pay a ticket or a fine?

To pay a ticket or fine by mail, please mail a cashier's check or money order to the City of Plainview at:
901 Broadway St.
Plainview, TX 73072

2. What happens if I fail to appear in court as ordered?

A warrant for your arrest will be issued.

3. How can I keep a citation off of my record?

To keep a moving violation off of your record, contact the Municipal Court at (806) 296-1177 and request a deferred disposition, appearance in Teen Court, or enrollment in a driving safety class by the due date listed on your citation.

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Police Department

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1. How can I get a police report?

To request a public copy of a police report, submit your request along with $5 cash, check, or money order in person or by mail to the Plainview Police Department at:
108 W. Ninth St.
Plainview, TX 79072

For more information, please call the Police Department records office at (806) 296-1179.

2. How can I get a protective order against someone?

If you are a victim of domestic violence who wants a protective order, please contact the Hale County Crisis Center at (806) 293-7273.

3. How do I become a Plainview police officer?

There are three parts to becoming a police officer for the City of Plainview:

• You must obtain a Texas Peace Officer license.
  
• You must fill out an employment application.
  
• You must pass a written test, physical agility test, background check, oral interview, medical exam, drug screen, and psychological evaluation.

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Public Works - Water Distribution

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1. How do I report a water leak?

To report a water leak, please call (806) 296-1169 during normal business hours or (806) 296-1182 after hours and on weekends.

2. What causes water leaks?

Common causes of water leaks include ground shift and contractor damage. Also, temperature extremes may cause expansion and contraction of pipes. Older mains are also more likely to break.

3. Who is responsible for repairing a water leak on my property?

Leaks determined to be on private property on the customer side of the meter connection are the responsibility of the property owner.

Leaks from the meter to the main water line in the public right of way (street side) are the city’s responsibility.

Leaks from private water systems (i.e., apartments, shopping centers, etc.) that occur in parking lots or landscaped areas are the property owner’s responsibility.

4. Am I paying for water that is leaking?

Only water that flows through the meter is charged to the customer.

5. I’ve reported a water leak on my property. Crews have driven by and looked at the leak without repairing it. Why isn’t the leak repaired when they arrive?

When a repair crew arrives at the reported leak area, the severity of the leak is determined. If the leak poses a safety hazard it may be repaired after utility locates have been arranged (usually about two hours for emergency calls). If the leak is minor it is scheduled for a later date, usually within 48 hours.

6. In order to repair the city water main crews had to dig in my yard. When will crews be back to clean up and level my yard?

After a leak is repaired the water that leaked out makes it difficult to compact or level the yard. Backfilling excavations are scheduled for Fridays, weather permitting. The City of Plainview is not responsible for replacing trees, bushes, gardens, decorative rock, or any other landscape elements placed in the allies or public rights of way.

7. Why did I receive a notice in the mail to have a backflow device tested on my property?

Notice was given in order to comply with the City of Plainview’s ordinance Section 3 Chapter 20 Plumbing, Article 7 General Regulations Section 603.3.2 that requires all backflow-prevention assemblies (i.e., reduced pressure, double-check valves, and pressure vacuum breaker assemblies) to be tested on installation and every three years thereafter by a licensed and approved tester. Locations considered high hazard areas need to be tested once every year. Tester information is included with the mailing notice.

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Solid Waste Department

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1. Is the city landfill open on holidays?

The landfill is closed for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.

2. What forms of payment are accepted?

The landfill accepts cash, check, and charge accounts only. The landfill does not accept credit cards. City of Plainview residents who pay a City of Plainview water bill are exempt for items such as appliances, furniture, yard waste, and household trash. There is a charge for lumber, sheet rock, carpet, concrete, roofing, and all other remodeling materials.

3. Does the city offer pick-up service for bulk items?

The City of Plainview does not have a curbside service, but they do offer a Loan a Truck Program. The Loan a Truck Progam is for City of Plainview residents and is free of charge unless the resident loads any kind of remodeling materials or tires. The City of Plainview will not pick up any bulk items left by the curb or around trash containers. It is the homeowner's responsibility to dispose of these items properly.

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Unger Memorial Library

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1. Where is the public library located in Plainview?

The Unger Memorial Library is located on the corner of Ninth and Austin streets at 825 Austin Street.

2. How can I get a library card?

If you are over 18 years old you, will need a Texas driver's license or Texas ID issued by the Department of Public Safety. Anyone under the age of 18 will need a parent or guardian to sign for them.

3. What services does the library offer?

The Unger Memorial Library has a circulation of 50,000 books, 2,000 DVDs, 1,000 books on CD; access to 15 public internet computers with Microsoft Office programs; reference services; and inter-library loan services.

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Utility Billing / Accounting

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1. How do I set up a new water account at my home or business?

To set up a new service, come to the Finance office at 121 W. 7th St. with the following documents: Application for Water Service, deposit for water meter, and a valid identification card.

2. Why are we not able to only pay the past due amount online?

The system will not let you change the amount when you pay online, therefore you will need to pay the total balance. If you want to pay a different amount you can do so at the office, by mail, or leave the payment in our night drop box at:
121 W. Seventh St.
Plainview, TX 79072

3. Why do I have to pay a deposit when I have other active accounts?

Each water meter requires a security deposit. This deposit will be applied to the final bill for that account when the service is terminated.

4. Can I change my due date?

No, we bill three times a month and we bill by zone. We have three zones. Your due date will be the same as every customer that lives in that zone. The only time your due date will change is if you move to another residence in another zone.