View Licensed Rental Properties. If you suspect a property is rented and not on the list, please call Community Development at 763-569-3330.

Brooklyn Center has one mayor and four councilmembers. For more details, please contact the city clerk at (763) 569-3306.

Yes. A rental license application, license fee, and rental inspection are required. See Rental Dwelling Licensing.

Please visit the Secretary of State website for voter registration information.

The City Code of Ordinances provide regulations for public health, morals, economic well-being, welfare, and safety. Any Council enactment that regulates people or property and provides a penalty if violated are adopted in the form of an ordinance.

Brooklyn Center offers educational opportunities from early childhood education classes to lifetime learning. For details about school districts and education, please see the school district information.

In Minnesota, you do not have to wait until Election Day to vote — you can vote early with an absentee ballot. You can vote early in person at city hall or vote early by mail. For additional information visit the MN Secretary of State.

Please call the Human Resource Division at (763) 569-3300 to verify employment of past or current employees.

Cable Television Service
Comcast
Phone: (651) 222-3333

Electric Service
Xcel Energy
Phone: (800) 895-4999
Emergency/Power Outage: (800) 895-1999

Natural Gas Service
CenterPoint Energy
(612) 372-4727
Emergency/Gas Leak: (612) 372-5050

Telephone Service
Qwest
Phone: (800) 244-1111
Repair: (800) 573-1311

Water and Sewer Service
City of Brooklyn Center
Phone: (763) 569-3390

No. However, city regulations limit the number of cats and dogs and address animal management issues.

Please visit the Minneapolis North website.

The City of Brooklyn Center annually produces four resident newsletters known as City Watch. The Recreation Brochure is attached and includes the listings for recreation programs. The newsletter is mailed to all residential households, including apartments, duplexes, and condominiums. If you are a Brooklyn Center resident and are not receiving the City Watch newsletter, please call City Hall at (763) 569-3300.

Each year, the City of Brooklyn Center Community Resource & Residents' Guide is available to residents of Brooklyn Center. The goal of the guide is to create increased awareness of local community business services, products, and civic organizations and give residents a resource guide for community information and services. The Guide is published by Prime Advertising & Design, Inc. and is available free at City Hall.

The Council has adopted Code of Policies to guide the operations of city functions and business. For more information, please visit the City Council page.

The City lists its current job openings on the job opportunities section, linked below, or you can call the City's Job Information Line at (763) 569-3307 to hear the current openings.

For more information about employment opportunities or a specific job, please refer to the job opportunities section or contact the Human Resource Division at (763) 569-3300.

In Brooklyn Center, the minimum requirement is that you have a Minnesota Building Official Certificate. Please contact technical colleges regarding education and degree opportunities. For more information please visit the MN Construction Codes & Licensing Division.

In order to become a police officer in Brooklyn Center, you need a two year degree in law enforcement. You must be POST certified or eligible to be POST certified. You can find out more specific information by contacting the POST (Police Officer Standards & Training) Board.

See Becoming a Brooklyn Center Firefighter.

The City only accepts applications for current job openings. You can find out the City's current employment opportunities by calling the job information line at (763) 569-3307 or view our current job opportunities.

Read more historical information.

See Census Data.

The City uses a variety of methods to communicate with residents. A resident newsletter, the City Watch, is distributed 4 times a year to each household. The City Watch also includes a Recreation Brochure that highlights recreation activities for the quarter. Information is also available on the city website. Brochures are developed and available at City Hall, Police Department, Public Works and Community Center about various community issues. A Community Resource & Resident Guide is available at City Hall. Meetings and special events are also great opportunities to meet with residents and businesses. Many people call or go to city buildings to talk to city staff in-person. The City is continually looking for ways to enhance communications to better serve you. If you have ideas or suggestions, please contact the Assistant to the City Manager at (763) 569-3300.

The Brooklyn Center City Council designated the Brooklyn Center Sun-Post as its official newspaper to publish the City's legal notices, ordinances, financial information, public hearing notices, and other official information. The Sun-Post is delivered to most residences free or by voluntary subscription. If you would like the newspaper delivered to your home, call MN Sun Publications at (952) 392-6860 or visit www.mnsun.com.

An open forum is available for people to state their concerns to the City Council. For more information, please call the City Clerk at (763) 569-3306.

Please refer to the public meeting calendar.

Public meeting agendas and minutes can be found on the city website. For more information, please contact the City Clerk at (763) 569-3306.

Please see the Census data.

Participating on a city commission is a great opportunity to get involved in your community.

The Mayor and City Council are responsible for providing direction and leadership for city operations. A complete list of duties and responsibilities can be found on the City Council page.

The municipal general election is held the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November of even-numbered years. In the event more than twice the number of persons to be elected to a municipal office file for the nomination thereof, there shall be a primary election which shall be held on the second Tuesday in August. See more election information.

To be an election judge, you must:

1. Be eligible to vote (U.S. citizen, 18 years of age or older, maintain residence in Minnesota for 20 days immediately preceding the election);
2. Be able to read, write, and speak English;
3. Not be a spouse, parent, child, or sibling of another election judge serving in the same polling place or of any candidate in the election;
4. Not be a candidate in the election;
5. Declare a major political party affiliation - no more than half of the election judges in a polling place can be members of the same major political party (election judges are not identified by party once on the job at the polling place.)

At least two (2) weeks prior to the first day of filing an Affidavit of Candidacy, the City Clerk shall cause to be published in the official newspaper a notice of filing for municipal office. The notice of filing shall designate the officer to be elected, the period during which affidavits of candidacy may be filed, and the time and place for filing such affidavits. Not more than 84 days nor less than 70 days before the municipal primary election any person who is eligible and desires to become a candidate for a municipal office shall file an Affidavit of Candidacy with the City Clerk. The affidavit shall be substantially the same form as required of candidates for state offices. Upon receiving a completed Affidavit of Candidacy form and the payment of a filing fee of $25 by a potential candidate or filing by the petition of 50 registered voters on behalf of the candidate, the clerk shall certify the eligibility of the candidate and place the name of the candidate on the election ballot without partisan designation.

The City Council meetings are held the second and fourth Mondays of the month.

The City is a member of the North Hennepin Chamber and the Twin West Chamber.

The EDA is responsible for the proper management of plans for Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts in the City and for recommending modifications to these plans to the City Council. The EDA activities are guided by Minnesota law regarding the conditions and qualifying uses for TIF and by Council policy direction on the specific eligible uses for TIF. For more information, please see the city website. The HRA may buy, own, and sell land for housing and economic development purposes and engage in other housing and redevelopment activities consistent with Minnesota law.

The owner may receive one of the following describing the violation and the city's expectation for corrections.

• A citation (fine), formal complaint (mandatory court appearance), city facilitated abatement (costs assessed to the property), or other legal ramifications
• A compliance notice letter
• A door knocker or sticker

Questions regarding the violation should be directed to the inspector listed on such document.

If correcting a problem on your property creates a financial hardship or you are unable to physically complete the work, please contact one of the following organizations for assistance:

• Community Emergency Assistance Program (CEAP) - (763) 566-9600
• Hennepin County Recycling Center - (612) 348-3777
• Household and Outside Maintenance for the Elderly (HOME) - (763) 450-4311
• Housing Resource Center - (612) 588-3033
• Senior Linkage - (800) 333-2433
• Senior Outreach - (952) 541-1019
• United Way First Call For Help - 211

If you have any questions about property maintenance or would like to report a property in the city that you feel is in violation, please contact us at (763) 569-3330.

Please call (763) 569-3330 and leave your name, address, and phone number along with the specific complaint so a code enforcement officer may contact you about viewing the neighbor's backyard from your property.

Code enforcement officers are not legally allowed to enter the backyard of a residential property without the home owner's permission. Please advise the officer if he or she can view the issues from your property.

A building permit is required for a variety of types of construction. Please call the Community Development Department at (763) 569-3330 or view Building and Construction Permits for specific instances.

Please call (763) 569-3330 to report a code violation regarding property maintenance, storage, or use.

A building permit must be submitted, along with digital plans and in most cases, a site plan. The site plan must show property lines, all existing structures (including dimensions), and the location of the proposed structure. Contact Community Development at (763) 569-3330 for more information.

The city has regulations pertaining to safety and aesthetics. Please view the following webpage for specific information. See Project Specific Information / Handouts.

Original building plans are kept by the city for 10 years. After that time, they are returned to the homeowner.

The Minnesota Department of Health requires that private wells no longer being used (abandoned) be capped and sealed by a licensed well drilling company. Proof of a capped well must be disclosed at the time a property is sold. The MN Department of Health website has more information at www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/wells/index.html.

The outside storage of recreational vehicles is allowed on any occupied residential property. If they are parked or stored in the front yard area or a yard abutting a public street, they must be on an authorized parking or driveway area. Contact the Building & Community Standards Department for more information at (763) 569-3330.

All animal complaints (barking, running-at-large, exceeding the limit, cruelty, bites, etc) are handled by the Brooklyn Center Police Department at 911.

Please call the Brooklyn Center Police Department at 911 or (763) 569-3333.

Permits are required for certain permanent and temporary signs. Please see the city website link for more information.

Dial 811 to contact Gopher State One Call two working days before you dig. Gopher State will locate and mark underground utilities. For more information, please visit their website at www.gopherstateonecall.org

You are required by Minnesota State law to install smoke detectors (battery operated or hard wired) in all sleeping rooms when property improvements total more than $1,000.

5500 Lilac Drive North, Brooklyn Center, MN 55430.

Hours vary. Please call Centerbrook at (763) 549-3750 or visit http://www.centerbrookgolf.com/

For fee information, please call (763) 549-3750 or visit http://www.centerbrookgolf.com/

Yes. For a tee time, please call (763) 549-3750 for visit http://www.centerbrookgolf.com/

Yes. Centerbrook has a variety of leagues for men, women, couples, seniors and youth. Go to http://www.centerbrookgolf.com/ for more information.

Yes. For rates and available dates, please call (763) 549-3750.

The City Code of Ordinances provide regulations for public health, morals, economic well-being, welfare, and safety. Any Council enactment that regulates people or property and provides a penalty if violated are adopted in the form of an ordinance. View City Ordinances.

City Council records are stored permanently in the City's Document Center and accessible to the public. View City Documents.

Coast Guard approved life jackets are permitted in the pool and wading pool. An adult must accompany child in the pool if they are wearing a life jacket.

50 meter pool: Ages 7 or older. An adult must be in the water and within an arms length of children ages 6 & younger.

Wading pool: Available for children age 6 and younger with adult supervision; children age 0-3 must have an adult in the water with them; children ages 4-6 must have an adult on the wading pool deck

Children who are not toilet trained must wear a swim diaper. Swim diapers are available to purchase at the customer service desk.

Yes. Inside the community center there is a 50 meter indoor pool, 150' water slide and a zero depth entry wading pool.

Yes.  Please call 763-569-3400 for current rates and options.

Yes. Please call 763-569-3400 for current rates.

Yes. Swim lessons are available year round. Class descriptions, fees, dates and times are available in the Recreation Brochure.

The hours vary depending on the season. For the current schedule please call 763-569-3400 or check the online pool calendar here: brooklyncentermn.gov/communitycenter

The exercise room offers complete fitness equipment for cardiovascular and strength conditioning.

No. Use of the pool and exercise room are available to everyone for a fee.

Yes. They are available to use for a fee.  Please call 763-569-3400 for pricing and availability.

The rooms are available for public, civic, non-profit groups, business events and privates parties. There is a fee to use the community rooms. Please call 763-569-3400 for pricing and availability.

6301 Shingle Creek Parkway, Brooklyn Center, MN 55430.

No.

No. However, we do offer programs for people of all ages.

• Any member of the public can request public data (records open to all).
• Individuals can also request private data about themselves.

• Data subjects (for private data regarding themselves): within 10 business days.
• Others: 'reasonable time,' which is largely dependent upon the size and complexity of the request. Typically, the City will respond within 30 days unless extended due to complexity.

• Public data: Anyone can access.
• Private data (on individuals): Only the individual the data is about (and the agency) can access.
• Confidential data (on individuals): No one (not even the individual) can access it, except the agency.

In general, personnel data is private, with some exceptions.

• Name, job title, salary, and dates of employment are public.
• Disciplinary actions are public once final.

*Due to a software issue which has since been corrected, some requests prior to 2025 may not have been received or catalogued.  If you submitted a request prior to 2025 and are still awaiting a response, please resubmit the request here: https://brooklyncentermn.justfoia.com/publicportal/home/newrequest

It is very simple. Here are the 3 steps taken by customers:

1. Customer receives email notification or accesses account via the City of Brooklyn Center website by clicking on the 'View or Pay Your Bill' button.
2. Customer locates and views bill and either enters payment information for a One Time Payment or registers to schedule a payment.
3. Customer receives an email confirmation with their payment amount and payment process date.

You need to register to receive electronic bills by email, but registration is not required for One Time Payments. One Time Payments require that you enter your payment information each time you make a payment. By registering, you avoid that step and gain access to your payment history.

By registering, you have access to all of your bills regardless of type and all of the features of the payment portal. These features include the ability to view all current bills, see previous bills and payment dates, access the online customer service system, go paperless (if bill type allows), schedule payments for a specific dates, and sign up for Auto-Pay. You also avoid having to enter your payment information each time you pay a bill.

Registering is easy and can be done when you make a payment. There are two ways you can make a payment.

1. When you receive an email notification that your bill is ready to be paid, simply go to the 'View Invoice or Pay Now' link. You will be directed to City's 'Pay and/or View Bills Online' site. Once there, you will be given the opportunity to register or make a One Time Payment. If you choose to register, you will be asked to provide a password and accept the terms and conditions to use the system. The payment information you enter in your profile will then be securely encrypted and saved for your next visit.
2. You can go directly to the City of Brooklyn Center's website and go to the 'Pay or View your Bill' link. You will then be directed to the City's 'Pay and/or View Bills Online' site. Once there, you will need to locate your customer account and be given the opportunity to register or make a one time payment. If you choose to register, you will be asked to provide a password and accept the terms and conditions to use the system. The payment information you enter in your profile will then be securely encrypted and saved for your next visit.

Yes, an email address is required for payment confirmation. A payment receipt is sent via email.

Under 'How would you like to pay' go to the drop-down box and choose EFT Check.

Yes, you will receive a confirmation email.

Once you have registered, you will need only your email address and password to log in. To login the first time you use the system, you will need your customer account number from your bill. The 'locate your bill' screen gives instructions regarding the required information.

You should view 'Forgotten Password?' at the bottom of the login screen. You will need your customer account number and email address to retrieve your password. If you're unable to locate this information, you may call the City of Brooklyn Center, and they can provide you with the information.

You can pay by credit or debit card (the City accepts Visa, MasterCard and Discover), or you may issue an electronic check from your bank account (checking or savings).

Yes, your bill can be paid in any of the following ways:

• Email notification based payment - Go to 'View Invoice or Pay Now' button in your email.
• Web based online payment - login to online bill pay via City's website.
• Phone payments - call the City's office.
• Paper check or money order - sent by US Postal Service or your bank

There are no signup costs, subscription fees or transaction fees. There are fees imposed for returned payments, and your bank and the City may charge you a fee.

After you submit your payment, you will see a payment confirmation screen. It will contain your payment confirmation message. It will show an approved number for credit cards or a processed number for electronic check. You will also receive a confirmation email after your transaction is submitted. The email will include your account number, invoice number, amount paid, and confirmation message. If your electronic check does not pass through the bank, you will receive an email informing you of the rejected payment. You may need to call the City in order to pay again.

Yes, if the City accepts partial payments, you may use one payment method for part of the transaction and another payment method for other parts of the transaction

Credit card transactions typically take 48 hours to settle. An authorization is issued immediately; however, it takes 48 hours for the money to be transferred.

EFT transactions typically take 48 ' 72 hours to settle.

Going paperless is a two-step process, after receiving the paperless registration email, you must go to the Confirm button in the email to complete the process. If you prefer not to go paperless, simply do not complete registration (by viewing the link in the email). You will get one reminder email, but if you don't complete the registration at that time, the paperless enrollment will be canceled. You may also go to Paperless Options in your account profile and view 'cancel registration'.

If you are registered, the only information you need to have available to complete a payment transaction is your email address and password. If you make a One Time Payment, then you will also need your bank account or credit card information and your customer account number.

You can make payment or review your account 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It is always a good idea to pay or schedule a payment at least few days before the due date to allow for processing time

Yes, simply login to your account and select 'View paid or closed invoices'. If you are a registered customer, you will receive an email notification.

Yes, you will have 24/7 access to your account for bill review and payment, payment history and customer service requests.

Yes, each bill is presented in PDF and HTML format. Electronic storage is recommended because it saves paper and has a beneficial impact on our environment.

If you elect to opt in to Auto-Pay, it means that your bills will be paid automatically on the due dates using your default credit card or bank account. This will avoid any late fees and free you from having to remember when to pay.

Yes, simply go into your profile and uncheck the auto-pay box that you had previously checked when you elected to opt into Auto-Pay.

The Auto Pay date will not appear under scheduled payments. Auto Pay will be debited from the customer's account on the due date.

Scheduled payments are scheduled individually by you for each bill on your specified date.

Yes. You can set up a future payment at any time prior to the bill due date.

Yes, as long as it is changed before the date it was scheduled to be paid.

A partial payment occurs when only part of a bill is paid. The City of Brooklyn Center allows partial payments.

A partial payment occurs when only part of a bill is paid. The City of Brooklyn Center allows partial payments.

Auto-pay is an automated process which pays your balance in full each billing cycle at 2am on the due date; scheduled payments are manually entered by you for the date you choose for each bill you choose.

You will need to contact your bank and cancel your automated or scheduled payment before the payment is due (typically payments are made a couple days in advance of the due date, so don't wait until the last minute).

The paperless box is generally defaulted to enroll you in paperless billing because it helps the environment.

• Option 1: Customer must select 'Complete paperless process' link within email to complete enrollment. If they do not, the paperless option will not be active and will drop off system within a few days.
• Option 2: Customer can log into account and cancel paperless registration. Choose > My Profile > Paperless Option > Cancel Paperless Registration.

If you are unable to find the information you need in your online payment history or open bills, please call Brooklyn Center Utilities at (763) 569-3390.

Please call Brooklyn Center Utilities at (763) 569-3390.

Your information is secure at all times. All of your financial information is Payment Card Industry (PCI) Compliant. This includes truncating (abbreviating) account numbers so that even the City of Brooklyn Center does not see your complete account information.

PCI stands for Payment Card Industry, and compliance with the industry standards is a requirement for those that accept the major credit cards and for software providers who have applications which involve the transmission and/or storage of credit card information. If breaches are found on systems that are not PCI compliant, the major credit card companies have the ability to levy significant fines on the offending parties.

You and City of Brooklyn Center authorized staff. No one will have access to your financial information as all check routing numbers and credit card numbers are truncated, so you never have to worry about security. As a security precaution, we don't even show your full financial information back to you.

To prevent unauthorized access to customer accounts (and as required for Payment Card Industry (PCI) compliance), an escalating timeout and lockout procedure is in place. This security feature is triggered by repeated failed logins. If you get a lockout message while attempting to login, you should contact the City of Brooklyn Center.

Are you ready for the challenge? Learn more about becoming a Firefighter.

A permit is not required to have a recreational fire. However, other requirements may apply.

Please contact the Building Official at (763) 569-3313.

No. The Fire Department is unable to perform child car seat safety inspections or installations. For information on locations that provide car seat inspections, please see the MN Office of Traffic Safety website at dps.mn.gov or the Safe Kids USA website at www.usa.safekids.org.

Yes. The Fire Department provides blood pressure checks during these hours: 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. seven days a week (and holidays) at the West Fire Station at 6250 Brooklyn Boulevard. There is a crew on duty during those hours and they will assist, unless they are out on a call. If the crew happens to be gone at the time of your visit, please check back at a later time.

No. The Fire Department does not inspect or recharge fire extinguishers. Please consult the internet, or your extinguisher manufacturer on how to service fire extinguishers.

Disaster information and emergency preparedness can be found at the Red Cross website at www.redcross.org .

No. Once a job application deadline has passed, applications will not be accepted.

In most cases, you are not required to be a resident of Brooklyn Center in order to work for the City. However, in the case of a firefighter, a person must be able to respond to a call within a certain amount of time in order to be eligible for the position.

To report concerns about a restaurant, public or semi-public swimming pool, or public lodging facility (hotel / motel), please contact Hennepin County Environmental Health by phone at (612) 543-5200, by fax at (952) 351-5222, or by email.

A Recreation Brochure is produced three times a year and is mailed to all residents. You can also find it by going to our main recreation page and clicking on 'Browse Programs'.

Withdrawal/refund requests must be made by the registration deadline of the program. If no deadline is stated, refund requests must be made two business days before the program begins. There will be no refunds for missed classes or withdrawals after the registration deadline. 

No. With the number of participants and classes offered, it would be difficult to facilitate the requests.

If classes are canceled due to inclement weather, you will be called. You may also call the weather line at (763) 569-3442.

You can register in person at the Community Center, by phone at (763) 569-3400, by mail or online.

No. All are welcome in our programs and events. Brooklyn Center Recreation Department has implemented resident/non-resident rates as of January 1, 2024 for memberships and daily admissions and March 26, 2024, for all other applicable program fees. 

Costs vary depending on the park. To reserve a picnic shelter, call (763) 569-3400.

Bellvue, Centennial, East Palmer, Evergreen, Firehouse, Freeway, Happy Hollow, Kylawn, Lions, Northport, Riverdale, Twin Lake, and Willow Lane Parks. To reserve a shelter, call (763) 569-3400.

City softball and baseball fields can be reserved. Please call (763) 569-3400.

The recreation department hires year-round for a variety of positions. For information and to apply for available jobs, please go to governmentjobs.com/careers/brooklyncenter

For the current offerings of adult sports, please go to our adult recreation page here. 

For the current offerings in youth sports please go to our youth sports programs page here. 

Yes. Our fitness class are drop in classes and you are welcome to join at anytime. For the current schedule of fitness class please go to our website at: brooklyncentermn.gov/communitycenter

Skating seasons typically runs from mid-December to mid-February (depending on the weather). 

The City does not locate property lines for private property owners. Property owners should hire a private licensed land surveyor to complete land surveys or locate property corners. Licensed land surveyors can be found online. In some cases, property owners can use a metal detector to find existing property corners at the corners of the lot.

A driveway replacement or expansion requires a driveway permit and zoning approval. Driveways can be expanded to an interior property line provided 50% of the front yard is still maintained as ground cover and driveway width is not more than 30 feet wide. Expansion of driveway near property lines will require a property survey and must meet setback requirements. Off-street parking areas and driveways must be paved with concrete, plant mixed bituminous surface (i.e. asphalt), brick, stone or form concrete pavers, or equivalent materials. Site plans/drawings are required for zoning approval. Permits can be applied through the City’s permitting system: (brooklyncenter.ims16.com). Please contact Community Development at (763) 569-3330 if you have additional questions.

For information about available commercial or residential development sites, please contact the Economic Development Coordinator at (763)569-3301.

Contact the Community Development Department at (763) 569-3330 regarding setback and zoning information.

The City may have a survey on file of your property. Contact the Community Development Department at (763) 569-3330.

To inquire about the allowance of a Home Occupation, contact the Community Development Department at (763) 569-3330 and ask for Planning and Zoning.

For more information, refer to the Planning & Zoning page.

The cost for a zoning letter is $75.  To submit a zoning letter request, please apply through the City's online permitting portal (iMS).

A resident may have up to four garage sales per year. Each sale may not be longer than three consecutive days. A sign no larger than 6 sq. ft. may be located on the property where the sale is being conducted. Off-site signs, no larger than 3 sq. ft., may be located on other residential property only (not commercial, industrial or public property) provided the property owners permission has been obtained. Signs may only be displayed during the sale and must be removed at the end of the sale. Please see the Garage/Rummage Sale Handout.

For information about crime statistics in your neighborhood, please contact the crime analyst at (763) 503-3162.

If you and your neighbors cannot resolve an issue of a barking dog, you can report it by calling 9-1-1 non-emergency. View the Brooklyn Center Animal Ordinance.

Any dog that bites or acts vicious toward a person or another domestic animal should be reported immediately. If it is an emergency, dial 9-1-1. The State of Minnesota regulates the management of dangerous dogs. Information regarding dangerous and potentially dangerous dogs is regulated by the following ordinance. View the Brooklyn Center Animal Ordinance.

A solicitor's or peddler's permit is not required from the city. However, it is recommended that you provide the information listed below to the Brooklyn Center Police Department on your company's letterhead:

• Contact number
• Dates and times
• License plate numbers of vehicles used
• Names of the solicitors
• Photo ID for a representative of the company and each individual that will be soliciting or peddling in Brooklyn Center

Out-of-state persons must contact Hennepin County at 612-348-8240 for a transient merchant permit. Food merchants must contact the Minnesota Department of Agriculture at 651-201-6315 for food license requirements.

Licenses are not required for pets in the City of Brooklyn Center. However, ID / information tags are required by city ordinance and can be purchased at pet shops or some veterinarian offices. A person who owns, harbors, or keeps a dog over 6 months old within the city must securely attach an identification tag or plate to the dog's collar so that it can be readily seen. The tag or plate must contain the name and home telephone number of the owner or other person who is keeping the dog. The identification tag or plate must be worn by the dog at all times when it is off the owner's or keeper's property.

Please call 9-1-1 and ask to speak with a Community Service Officer to resolve the issue.

For information about predatory offenders, please visit Minnesota Registered Sex Offenders.

A copy of your police report can be obtained through one of the following options:

• Via our online Report Request Form
• An in-person request by visiting the police department located at 6645 Humboldt Avenue North, Brooklyn Center, MN 55430 Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
• By calling (763) 569-3333 

When will I receive my report request?

Requests for police reports are processed in the order in which they are received. A multitude of reasons may lengthen our ability to process your request in a timely manner, such as the current number of report requests being processed, staffing levels, etc.

Please call the Community Services Office at (763) 569-3173 and leave a message for the CSO stating you would like a trap set. Be sure to leave your name, a phone number you can be reached, and your address. A CSO will call you back. You may also check the Yellow Pages and Better Business Bureau for a list of pest control companies.

Crime Stoppers of Minnesota provides a safe place for citizens to provide anonymous information about crime and fugitives. Brooklyn Center Police partners with Crime Stoppers to investigate anonymous tips they receive. If the information you provided leads to a felony arrest, you may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000 through Crime Stoppers.

Your contact with Crime Stoppers is anonymous. Information can be shared with Crime Stoppers via phone, online, or through a mobile app.

Submit your tip online here.

No. The Police Department cannot dispose of unused/unspent gun ammunition. If you have standard bullets/shells you want to dispose of, it is recommended you soak them in a bucket of water for at least 4 weeks before placing them in the garbage.

If there is a dead animal in the road, please call 911 non-emergency. A police officer or community service officer will be dispatched to move it to the side of the road or dispose of it.

No. If the animal is small enough, use gloves, place it in a garbage bag, and dispose of it in your garbage container.

Please call 911. It is against the Brooklyn Center City Ordinance to allow an animal to run loose. The ordinance for this issue is under City Code of Ordinances, Chapter 1 - Animals.

According to Minnesota State Statute 169.09, subd. 7, if you are in an accident in which there was $1,000.00 or more of damage you must submit a Minnesota Motor Vehicle Crash Report within 10 days. If you were not given one at the scene of the accident, you can pick one up at any Police Department. The address to mail the form is located on the back of the form.

The Police Department does not keep a copy of the insurance exchange form. Please contact your insurance agent to obtain the other drivers insurance information.

If you last saw your car in the City of Brooklyn Center, call the Brooklyn Center Police Department at (763) 569-3333. Please provide the license plate number of the vehicle, the location where you left the vehicle, and the date last seen. If the Police Department towed your vehicle, the registered owner of the vehicle will need to come to the Police Department with picture ID, a valid driver in possession of a drivers license, and proof of insurance. If you do not have access to your proof of insurance, your insurance company will have to fax a copy of your policy to the Police Department at 763-561-0717. If there is a Hold on your vehicle, you will have to speak to the Officer who placed a Hold on it.

A driveway replacement or expansion requires a driveway permit and zoning approval. Driveways can be expanded to an interior property line provided 50% of the front yard is still maintained as ground cover and driveway width is not more than 30 feet wide. Expansion of driveway near property lines will require a property survey and must meet setback requirements. Off-street parking areas and driveways must be paved with concrete, plant mixed bituminous surface (i.e. asphalt), brick, stone or form concrete pavers, or equivalent materials. Site plans/drawings are required for zoning approval. Permits can be applied through the City’s permitting system: (brooklyncenter.ims16.com). 

Residents should locate their property corner stakes prior to installing fences to avoid encroachments onto adjacent properties. The city cannot locate property corner monuments on private property. Residents should hire a licensed land surveyor to complete land surveys or locate property corners.

To report a non-functioning street light, contact Street Maintenance at (763) 585-7100.

Plats are recorded and stored with Hennepin County. Plats for abstract properties can be obtained from either the Office of the County Recorder or the Office of the Registrar of Titles, depending on the type of property. Both of these offices are located in the Hennepin County Government Center, 300 S. Sixth St., Minneapolis, MN 55487. Hard copies can often be obtained from the Brooklyn Center Engineering Division at (763) 569-3340.

Parking is not allowed on the street in the City of Brooklyn Center between 2:00 am and 6:00 am or for more than six consecutive hours at any other time. Parking is also prohibited in an alley. Commercial vehicles are limited to two hours of on-street parking. Vehicles parked on the street may not interfere with traffic, fire hydrants, utility maintenance, or snow plowing activities. Vehicles creating obstructions or hazards may be removed by the City. Typically, the City starts snow plowing activities after a snowfall of 2.5 inches. In the event of an emergency, please call the on-duty sergeant at (763) 569-3333.

Generally, the sod warranty is 30 days after initial placement. After that time the property owner is responsible for sod maintenance. New lawns will require more watering and care than the rest of your yard for the first three years after installation.

Regulated flood elevations are established by mapping from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Copies of the FEMA Flood Maps are available from both the Engineering Division (763) 569-3340 and the Building and Community Standards Department (763) 569-3330.

The City Surveyor does not locate property corners for private property owners. Property owners should consider hiring a private licensed land surveyor to complete land surveys or locate property corners. Licensed land surveyors can be found in the telephone directory (yellow pages). Property owners can use a metal detector to find existing property corners at the corners of the lot.

State law requires anybody excavating to call for underground utility locations. If the markings are in the street, you can contact the Public Works Department to inquire about who called in the locate request and what work is to be performed. Also see the Gopher State One Call website.

The Minnesota Department of Health requires that private wells no longer being used (abandoned) be capped and sealed by a licensed well drilling company. Proof of a capped well must be disclosed at the time a property is sold.

The City allows residents to drain pools into the storm sewer system when the pool water does not contain excessive chemicals that can damage downstream lakes and rivers. Water chemicals should be balanced, where chlorine content is below 1ppm before draining into the storm sewer system. The flow of water should be controlled to prevent damage or flooding to nearby properties.

Installing a street light typically involves a neighborhood petition process. Please contact the Engineering Division at (763) 569-3340.

Standard plates can be mailed, email or faxed. Please contact the Engineering division at (763) 569-3340.

Easements are recorded with Hennepin County. Hard copies can often be obtained from the Brooklyn Center Engineering Division at (763) 569-3340.

A clear view issue is a visual obstruction at a street intersection. It is defined as a triangular area formed by connecting the following three points: the point of intersection of the adjacent curb lines extended and a point on each adjacent curb line 55 feet from such point or intersection. Clear view triangle is defined in City Ordinance 25-802. To report a clear view obstruction, please contact the Public Works Department at (763) 585-7100.

New utility companies must register with the City and fill out the right-of-way registration form. Private utility companies installing new utilities or maintaining existing utilities within the public right-of-way need to apply for a right-of-way permit. A scaled drawing showing the locations of facilities and proposed improvement must be submitted with the application. The drawings must show dimensions to adjacent landmarks such as the road edge or right-of-way. Reference City Ordinance 25-1000 to 25-1032 for additional right-of-way rules and regulations. Please contact the Engineering Department for more information at (763) 569-3340.

For benchmarks, please contact the Engineering Division at (763) 569-3340. All benchmarks in Brooklyn Center are top nut of hydrant benchmarks unless otherwise specified.

Sump pump discharge and drainage should drain onto a person's own lawn so the water infiltrates into the ground. Sump pumps and storm water may not be drained into the sanitary sewer system. Please contact your neighbor and try to arrive at an agreement that is beneficial to all parties. Community Mediation Services, Inc. may be contacted to help neighbors resolve differences of private property issues. This service is free to residents and voluntary. Their phone number is (763)561-0033.

To request a new traffic control sign, residents must send a written request to the Public Works Department Director describing the requested signage, specific location, need and contact information. The Administrative Traffic Committee reviews all requests for new signage. The mailing address is: Engineering Division, 6301 Shingle Creek Pkwy, Brooklyn Center, MN 55430.

Right-of-Way (public boulevard) is dedicated to the public for construction and maintenance of streets and utilities. Right-of-way is dedicated on subdivision plats and is held in trust for the community. The boundary of right-of-way extends beyond the edge of street pavement. The width of the right-of-way will vary depending on the location of the property, but is generally 14 feet from the curb. To find out the width and extent of the right-of-way near your property, please contact the Engineering Division at (763) 569-3340.

First, check to see if a catch basin is plugged. If you are unable to clear the debris, please contact the Street Maintenance Division at (763) 585-7100. If a plugged catch basin is not the problem, please contact the Street Maintenance Division at (763) 585-7100. Please keep children and pets away from flooded streets and do not drive through flowing water.

To request a new traffic control sign or changes to traffic control signs, residents must send a written request to the Public Works Department Director describing the requested signage and actions. The Administrative Traffic Committee reviews all requests for new signage. The mailing address is: Engineering Division, 6301 Shingle Creek Pkwy, Brooklyn Center, MN 55430.

To report a damaged traffic sign, contact Street Maintenance at (763) 585-7100.

Storage of materials for landscaping are not allowed on public streets or right-of-way. Please make sure delivery companies know to drop off dumpsters and all materials directly onto your private property. Materials stored on the street may create safety hazards.

Utility as-built/record plans are maps that provide the location of underground utilities. These records are available at the Brooklyn Center Engineering Davison at (763) 569-3340.

Residents should contact the Engineering Division at (763) 569-3340 regarding drainage issues within public property, streets, parks or water bodies. Questions regarding drainage issues within private property should be directed to the Building and Community Standards Department at (763) 569-3330.

Retaining walls, fixed structures or other large obstructions cannot be placed within the public boulevard (right-of-way) due to public safety concerns. City ordinance also limits the types of trees and bushes that can be planted within the public right-of-way. Please contact the Engineering Division regarding placement of objects and landscaping materials within the right-of-way. View the Boulevard Tree Permit Form.

The City Engineering Division monitors erosion control practices on construction sites and other areas within the community. Residents should report erosion problems to the City Engineering Division at (763) 569-3340.

Sewer and water connection charges apply to new structures constructed on vacant property. In some cases, credits are applied for old structures that are removed from a parcel as part of a redevelopment project. Water connection charges are also applied to existing homes that are converted from a private well onto the city water system.

If the body of water is considered a protected water by the State of Minnesota, DNR or Watershed permits are required for work within the protected area. City Engineering staff can also provide recommendations and other resources for stabilizing shoreline areas. Please contact the Engineering Division to inquire whether the body of water is protected and for information at (763) 569-3340.

The Public Works Department Building is located at 6844 Shingle Creek Pkwy, Brooklyn Center, MN 55430.

The Engineering Division is located on the second floor of City Hall, 6301 Shingle Creek Parkway, Brooklyn Center, MN 55430.

You may dispose of the tree yourself; you can hire a contractor to do the removal and disposal; or if the tree is in the public boulevard (right-of-way), you can have a contractor hired by the City remove the tree and be billed for it. Please contact Public Works Department at (763) 585-7100 with any questions.

A permit is required for planting trees within the City right-of-way due to potential safety hazards. Certain types of trees are also prohibited. For more information or clarification on the location of the right-of-way line, please contact Public Works Department at (763) 585-7100.

Tree contractors who perform tree removal or trimming in the City are required to be registered with the City. If they go door-to-door soliciting business for tree work, they must be registered. View a list of registered contractors or call Public Works Department at (763) 585-7100.

The City of Brooklyn Center continues to lose hundreds of trees every year due to these two diseases. At this time, no actions can be taken to completely prevent these diseases from affecting our community forest. If you have questions about tree management, please call the City Forestry at (763)585-7100.

Pruning of boulevard and right-of-way trees by the City is performed on an as-needed basis. Tree trimming promotes safe and unimpeded access on City streets for all large vehicles and emergency vehicles. The City does not prune trees for aesthetic reasons alone.

City ordinance prohibits the storage of elm wood in the City with the bark intact. All bark must be removed to eliminate beetle harborage.

Please contact Park Maintenance at (763) 585-7100.

Please contact Park Maintenance at (763) 585-7100.

Please contact Park Maintenance at (763) 585-7100.

Please contact Park Maintenance at (763) 585-7100.

What is the hardness of our City water?
Elements that contribute to water hardness are calcium and magnesium. Our City water hardness is about 23 grains per gallon.

What are the black specks in my bath tub?
The black water or black specks, sometimes looking like pepper corns, are caused from the mineral manganese and are most often seen in the hot water. More complaints about manganese are generated from apartments rather than single family homes. When water enters a water heater, the manganese is in solution. Heat precipitates out the manganese. More heat will result in the appearance of more black specks. The solution is to adjust the water heater temperature to 120-125? F, flush the water heater, and also flush each individual faucet. Removal of the faucet aerator will speed up the flushing process.

Why is my water cloudy?
Typically water is cloudy due to air in the water. The air usually comes from the aerator on your faucet. If your water is cloudy, fill a glass and let it set for a few minutes, it should clear up. If not, please call Public Utilities at (763) 585-7100.

Does the City provide water testing?
City water is routinely tested for many substances as required by the Minnesota Department of Health. Please refer to the Consumer Confidence Report that is posted on the city's web site. The city does not provide water testing services. Please check the Yellow Pages, under laboratories, for companies that provide that service.

Where does the City of Brooklyn Center get its drinking water?
Drinking water in Brooklyn Center comes from high capacity groundwater wells that are approximately 300' deep.

What is Manganese?
Manganese is a naturally occurring mineral that is found in many sources of ground water. Manganese is the cause of most complaints regarding black water/specks or oily film in coffee and swimming pools. There are no enforceable drinking water standards for manganese.

The City flushes fire hydrants every spring to get rid of and prevent the build up of iron and manganese.

Sump pump water may not be disposed of into the sanitary sewer. The preferred method of disposing of sump water is onto ones own lawn so the water can infiltrate into the soil. Water should be directed at least 10 feet away from the building foundation to ensure that the water does not recirculate and return.

If your sewer backs up, first contact the City's Utilities Division at (763) 585-7100, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. After hours, weekends or on holidays, call 911 (the dispatcher will contact the appropriate on-call service staff).

If you suspect a hydrant leak or damage, please call the Utilities Division at (763) 569-3390, between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. After business hours, on weekends, and holidays, please call 911 (the dispatcher will contact the appropriate on-call service staff).

Yes. Water sprinkling is restricted in in the summer months, May 1 through September 30, with an Odd-Even Sprinkling Ban.

A rotten-egg smell comes from hydrogen sulphide gas dissolved in the water. Concentrations of as little as one part per million can result in this odor. The smell is a result of four factors that must all be present for the odor to develop in the water heater. 1) A high concentration of sulfate in the raw water; 2) Little or no dissolved oxygen in the water; 3) Sulfate-reducing bacteria within the water heater (this bacteria is nontoxic to humans.); and 4) An excess of active hydrogen in the tank. The cathodic action of the anode cause the hydrogen and sulfur to combineforming hydrogen sulfide gas that produces the rotten-egg odor. Active use of the water heater will reduce the problem. Idle water heaters (during vacations) will allow accumulations of hydrogen sulfide gas. Smelly water can most easily be eliminated or reduced by replacing the anode with one of less active material (magnesium to aluminum) and then flushing the water-heating system. If chemical or other odors exist, please contact the Utilities Division or a licensed plumber immediately.

During sub-zero temperatures, water meters housed in well pits or enclosed closets may freeze and break. One way to avoid a potential problem is to allow heat to circulate around the meter by leaving the access unobstructed and the doors to the meter closet open.

The City is responsible for water meter repairs due to normal use. Please contact the Water Department at (763) 569-3390 if your meter is noisy or if you have leak at the meter.

If you suspect a water main break, please call our Utilities Division at (763) 569-3390 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. After business hours, on weekends, and holidays, please call our 24-hour emergency number at 911 (the dispatcher will call the appropriate on-call service staff).

The City has a comprehensive sewer maintenance plan, which helps prevent sewer backups and reduce maintenance costs. Some aspects of the plan include 1) Inspecting every manhole two times a year often resulting in cleaning efforts in a few areas 2) Hydraulic root saw and removal occurs on an as needed basis each year 3) Potential trouble spots in the sewer system are inspected three times a year. This maintenance and prevention program has resulted in very few sewer incidents.

The average, one person uses approximately 3,000 to 5,000 gallons per month or 9,000 to 15,000 gallons per quarter. Various factors affect your water usage (personal habits, lawn watering, etc.) Your bill will fluctuate based on your water usage.

Yes. The water that is supplied through a temporary water system comes from the City's wells. Although the water may be a warmer temperature, it is safe to drink. The temporary water system is tested for bacteria prior to being placed into service.

If you are experiencing frozen water pipes in your house, here are a few tips that might help: Use hair dryer to heat the pipes. Wrap pipes with rags or towels and pour hot water over them until water is flowing again. Put a heater by the frozen pipes area to allow heat to circulate around the pipes. Put a fan by the frozen pipes area to allow air to circulate around the pipes. If the freezing has caused the pipes or fittings to crack, you will need to repair the pipes or contact a licensed plumber.

If the water service lines to your house freeze, please contact the City Utility Billing Division right away for more information.

A sewer odor is usually caused by a dried out or missing plumbing drain trap. Any drain that is not used for a period of time can dry out and allows sewer gas (methane) to escape into the house. Sewer gas doesn't smell like rotten eggs in all circumstances. Pouring a quart or so of hot water into all of the drains in the basement, including floor drain(s), showers, etc. usually solves the problem.

State law requires you call Gopher State One Call at (651) 454-0002 before beginning any digging projects on your property. Within 48 hours, Gopher State One Call will locate all underground utilities near the proposed work site to ensure you avoid them.

Sewer and water services extending between building structures and the mains in the street are the responsibility of the property owner. Residents will need to hire a contractor to repair damaged service lines. A sewer and water permit is required from the Building and Community Standards Department. For further information contact the Public Utilities Division at (763) 585-7100.

Typically, the water meter is usually located in the basement of the home. If the home does not have a basement, the meter is generally located in a heated crawl space under your home or on the ground level floor.

What will my boulevard look like after the street reconstruction project?
The area will be restored with lawn sod. The property owner is responsible for replacement of special or unique landscaping items. Please call the Engineering Division if you have questions at (763) 569-3340.

When will my street be reconstructed?
The City has developed a Capital Improvement Program (CIP) to guide the systematic replacement of streets within the community based on life span and condition. The pace at which the City can reconstruct or resurface public streets is based on the amount of available funding. Contact the Engineering Division at (763) 569-3340 to discuss the current schedule for street reconstruction in your neighborhood.

My street is going to be reconstructed. Will I be able to get into my driveway during construction?
In general you will be able to access your property after 7:00 pm each weekday and during weekends. During the workday, you may not be able to drive into your driveway while the contractor is installing underground utilities directly in front of your house and when concrete curb is being installed. Residents will not be able to access their driveways with their vehicles for five days after the concrete driveway is poured to allow the concrete material to cure. If you have special needs, please contact the Engineering Division at (763) 569-3340.

What happens to my water sprinkler irrigation system when the street is reconstructed?
During street reconstruction, an existing water sprinkler irrigation system that extends into the right-of-way will be pulled back and replaced at the end of the project. Please call the Engineering Division if you have questions at (763) 569-3340.

To report deep puddles or standing water in the street, contact Street Maintenance at (763) 585-7100.

To report a City sidewalk in need of repair, please contact Street Maintenance at (763) 585-7100.

The City will rake out and seed boulevard turf damage in the spring if the damage was caused by the snow plow. Please contact Public Works Department at (763) 585-7100.

The Public Works Department sweeps city streets three times a year to promote safe conditions for all modes of transportation. Over 107 miles of streets and alleys are swept. Clean streets improve air standards and stormwater quality for the citizens of Brooklyn Center. City streets are swept in early Spring, late Summer and Fall. The Fall sweeping is NOT intended to sweep up leaves. Residents may NOT sweep leaves into the street; they are responsible for yard leaf collection.

Streets are made of a mixture of asphalt cement and aggregate rock, heated and spread on a base of gravel.

To report a pothole, contact Street Maintenance at (763) 585-7100.

There are three ways to pay Street and Storm Drainage Assessments: 1. Property owners may pay in full, with no interest until September 30. 2. Property owners can pay in full from October 1 to the last business day in November with calculated interest. 3. After the last business day in November, the assessments roll over to Hennepin County for payment over a 10 year period. Please call the Engineering Division if you have questions at (763) 569-3340.

If City snow removal equipment directly hit and damaged a properly installed mailbox, the mailbox will be repaired or replaced. Please contact Street Maintenance at (763) 585-7100.

A list of licensed rental properties can be found on the City website. If you suspect a property is rented and not on the list, please call the Community Development at 763-569-3330. Licensed Rental Dwellings.

Yes. A rental license application, license fee, and rental inspection are required.

Landlords must have and be able to show proof of a rental license. It is illegal to offer a dwelling for rent without a current rental license. The license indicates, among other things, that the dwelling has been inspected by the City and has met minimum housing standards. In order to make sure that an apartment stays in compliance, routine inspections are conducted by the City of Brooklyn Center. Landlords should notify tenants in advance to avoid surprises and to allow tenants to secure or cage all pets.

Landlords must keep your apartment in reasonable repair and up to Brooklyn Center's rental housing code. Tenants may not cause damage to the apartment, other than normal wear and tear. Tenants cannot make alterations to the property without the landlord's permission, which includes installing permanent fixtures, resurfacing floors, or making other alterations.

If a smoke alarm is found to be nonfunctioning in a rental unit, it is required to give the landlord written notice within 24 hours, so repairs can be made as soon as possible. Failure to notify the landlord or willfully disabling a smoke alarm is classified as a petty misdemeanor.

Occupancy is limited to one family or no more than five persons not related by blood, marriage, or adoption, with the total number of occupants never to exceed two times the number of habitable rooms, which excludes the kitchen. Occupancy limitations are necessary to ensure decent, safe, and sanitary housing.

Landlords will typically have insurance coverage on their rental homes, but this type of insurance does not account for a tenants' personal belongings. Renter's insurance is an optional but extremely valuable form of protection for those who live in rented dwellings. It may include both property and liability protection for the covered policy holder, as well as certain additional benefits. Most major insurance agencies offer these policies.

The City of Brooklyn Center will not get involved in landlord / tenant lease disputes. If, however, you have a complaint regarding the condition of the property, you have notified the landlord and given a reasonable amount of time to correct the violation, you may file a complaint in writing with City Hall, at which point an inspector will follow up on the complaint. It is unlawful for the landlord to retaliate in any way against a tenant for filing a complaint. If faced with a health / life safety hazard and you have already notified your landlord, notify the city immediately.

The maintenance and requirements of the ordinance go into effect December 20, 2008. The registration process will begin February 4, 2009. Any property that has been vacant for more than 30 days is required to be registered.

The city’s home ownership purchasing program will be available in March 2009 for properties that were foreclosed and registered as vacant properties in accordance with the city ordinance.

Since 2007, the city has experienced a large number of mortgage foreclosures and subsequent vacant properties in its neighborhoods creating a negative impact socially and economically. Foreclosures and vacant properties are some of the top concerns of residents who have enjoyed and expect a high standard of living in this community. It is important for the city to monitor the market conditions, assess property conditions, provide a mechanism to stabilize neighborhoods, and provide an opportunity to attract responsible homeowners in order to revitalize the community.

The majority of foreclosed and vacant properties were not being maintained in a respectful, good condition. An excessive demand was being put on limited city resources to monitor and ensure the properties were maintained in a safe, good condition so they did not attract illegal activities or become a blight to the community. Over 80% of the properties had exterior code violations including maintenance items such as long grass / weeds, garbage / junk / debris, unsecured buildings, etc. (2008 Vacant Building Study).

The registration process provides a mechanism to provide community data and incorporate other city foreclosure initiatives, including re-occupying these properties with responsible homeowners or businesses as appropriate or removing distressed, unsafe, and unmarketable properties. 3. What is the purpose of the vacant building program? The purpose of the vacant building program is to:

The purpose of the vacant building program is to:

• Ensure the property is maintained in a safe and healthful condition.
• Ensure the property does not become a public nuisance, target for vandalism and illegal activity, and blight to the neighborhood.
• Identify properties that are life / safety hazards, distressed, unmarketable, and should be demolished.
• Maintain and improve the city's housing stock and preserve property values.
• Provide a mechanism to promote the community and these properties with the partnership of the private sector; provide sound, safe housing; and
• maintain the value in investments for current and future residents and businesses.

A residential or commercial property where an entire building on a parcel has been vacant for more than 30 days. For example, this includes a single-family property, a single commercial building that is vacant on a parcel, and a multi-family building that does not have any occupants.

Some exemptions to vacant building registration include:

• A parcel of land that does not have a building located on it.
• Any multi-unit building on a single parcel that has one or more occupants is not considered vacant. Examples include an apartment complex that has a few units available for rent or a multi-tenant commercial property with a space available for rent.
• Extended vacationers or snowbirds - A resident on an extended vacation or alternative living arrangement, including over winter months (snowbird), with the intention to return to the property and live is exempt from registering the vacant building. However, a verified emergency contact number where the property owner is located must be provided and the property must be maintained by a local person / agent so it does not appear to be vacant.
• Fire-damaged property - A building that has suffered fire damage is exempt from registration if the cleanup, repair, or demolition is completed within 90 days after the date of the fire, and if the exemption is requested in writing.

Please be advised that the city can only register properties that meet the requirements of the vacant building ordinance, and only these properties will be eligible for the city housing purchase programs. Vacant building registration applications received prior to 30 days of vacancy will be registered and eligible after the 30 days of vacancy.

Complete a Vacant Building Registration Application and submit the appropriate fee to the city.

Based on the review of vacant properties, most properties have violations and will fit under Type II with a $400 fee. For owners of newly vacated properties, you have 30 days to bring the property into compliance with city codes, which would result in meeting Type I, a $100 fee category. If you certify that your property does not have any code violations, you will need to call to schedule a visit at the site with the inspector.

Properties in better condition will also have a better chance of selling and at a higher value than properties in poor condition. If you certify that your property does not have any violations (peeling paint, junk / garbage, long grass / weeds, or a fence or other items in poor repair), you must call to schedule an on-site visit with the inspector.

For 2009, all properties will be in the first-year category, regardless of the length of time they have been vacant.

No, however if the property is vacant for 30 days or more, the property must be registered with our Vacant Building Program.