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1. When and where does the City Council meet?

The City Council meets at 6:30 pm on the first and third Tuesdays of each month at City Hall located on 200 S. Rusk. Agendas can be found using the following link: City Council Agendas

2. How can I request city records?

Because the Texas Public Information Act is only activated by a written request for documents, all requests for copies of City records must be in writing. Requests for public information can be made through the City Secretary's Office.  To learn more about methods to submit your request, click here.

The Texas Public Information Act does not require governmental bodies to create new information, perform legal research, or to answer questions. The request must ask for records or information already in existence. The City of Gainesville will not comply with a standing request for information to be collected or prepared in the future. Please be advised that there is a charge for copies of public information in accordance with state law.

Public Information Requests

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1. Do you have Landing or Ramp Fees?

No, We do not charge any of these fees.

2. Do you have Call - Out Fees?

No, we do not charge for call - outs.

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1. What day is my trash picked up?

Trash is serviced on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday or Friday depending on your address. Please contact 668-4551 for your service day.  Click here for more information on residential cart refuse service.

City Code of Ordinances

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1. When does the Planning & Zoning Commission meet?

The second Tuesday of every month (if items are on the agenda). Meetings are at 4:00p.m. in the City Council Chambers located at 200 South Rusk Street. Planning and Zoning Commission

2. The electric company will not turn on my power to my new business until I get an inspection. What do I do?

A Certificate of Occupancy application form needs to be completed and turned in to the Community Development Department office, located at 104 West Hird St. The minimum fee, per the fee schedule, must be paid before a Certificate can be issued. A building inspector and a fire inspector will visit the property for an inspection. If the inspection passes, the Community Development Department will then contact Oncor and issue a Certificate of Occupancy. Certificate of Occupancy Application

3. What is my property zoned?

To determine the zoning of your property, please refer to the zoning map available on the City's website (see link below). Some properties may have "grandfathered" aspects. Please call our office at 940-668-4799 if you have any questions or concerns about a particular property. Zoning Map

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1. How do I find out what jobs are available within the City?

All current employment opportunities/job postings can be found on our Employment Opportunities page. Employment Opportunities

2. How do I apply for a position with the City of Gainesville?

The City of Gainesville uses an online employment application system. Applications may be submitted only for positions that are currently open and posted on the Employment Opportunities page.
To submit an application, click "apply" next to the posted position on the Employment Opportunities page. You will be directed to create an account or sign in to a previously created account with our online application system.

3. How do I know what is going on with my application after I submit it online?

You will be notified by email when your application is forwarded to the department for review. The selection process typically takes a minimum of two to three weeks from the final closing date. Some hiring supervisors take several weeks to select applicants for interviews. When a final candidate is selected and hired, candidates not selected for the position are notified by email.

4. How do I submit a resume?

You may submit a resume by uploading it to your online application. Any other materials should be kept for an interview, unless otherwise noted in the job announcement.

5. How do I notify the City of my address or phone number change after I have already submitted my application?

Notify the Human Resources Department by calling (940) 668-4590. If you do not notify the Human Resources Department and the City is unable to reach you, your application will be dismissed from consideration.

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1. Does Gainesville Fire-Rescue provide Home Fire Inspections?

Yes. Home Fire Inspections are available upon request through the Fire Marshal’s office. To schedule a Home Fire Inspection, call (940) 668- 5737. Home Fire Inspections are designed to assist homeowners with identifying hazards and ways to make their home safer.

2. How is the City notified of changing weather conditions?

The City of Gainesville Emergency Management receives weather warnings from the National Weather Service. Once the City is notified, the information is forwarded to the local law enforcement agencies and Storm Spotters when activated. Code Red Weather Alert, an opt-in service, is used to keep citizens informed.

3. How do I get to Gainesville Fire-Rescue?

The headquarters for Gainesville Fire-Rescue is located at 201 Santa Fe in the Gainesville Public Safety Facility. The Gainesville Police Department and Municipal Court are also located here. Two fire substations are located at 308 N. Culberson St. and 200 N. Clements St. in Gainesville.

Google map to Gainesville Fire Rescue

4. Which current fire code is used by the City of Gainesvile?

The 2018 edition of the International Fire Code was adopted in June, 2022.  The Municode link is available on the City's website.

5. What is the Fire Department's permit process?

All permits are managed by the City of Gainesville’s Community Development Department located at 104 W. Hird St. The telephone number is (940) 668-4799.

6. Can I take a tour of Gainesville Fire-Rescue?

Gainesville Fire-Rescue is proud to offer tours for schools, churches, home study groups, boys and girls clubs, civic clubs, or any other interested groups or individuals. Station tours consist of a detailed look into a Firefighter’s work day, a tour of the living quarters of the fire station, description of the job that Firefighters perform, an up-close look at the fire engines and equipment that Firefighters use every day. The primary purpose of the station tour is to educate the community about fire prevention using a variety of age appropriate techniques.

7. How can I schedule a tour or event with the Fire Department?

Tours or events are coordinated through the Fire Prevention Division of Gainesville Fire Rescue. Call (940) 668-5731 to schedule a tour or email tsieger@gvps.org

8. Why does a fire truck go to medical calls with the ambulance?

The Fire Department First Responder program provides trained medical professionals to assist in patient care for life threatening medical emergencies within the city limits of Gainesville.

9. Can I burn trash or tree limbs on my property?

Outdoor burning is prohibited by city ordinance.  Limited outdoor burning may be conducted under strict guidelines with a permit. Contact the Fire Marshal’s Office at (940) 668-5737 for further information.

10. What do Firefighters do with their time when not responding to calls?

Firefighters have daily assignments and projects that keep them active during the day. They perform safety inspections of businesses, pre-fire planning, fire prevention activities, apparatus, equipment, and station maintenance. In addition, they have assigned training they must complete each month to meet required federal and state mandates for fire and medical certifications. 

11. Do Firefighters get to sleep at the station?

They do, but in reality, their nights are interrupted many times for response to incidents. Statistics show that the more serious fires tend to occur after 11:00 p.m. and before 6:00 a.m. The City’s Firefighters are on duty for twenty-four hours. Their shift begins at 7:00 a.m. and ends at 7:00 a.m. the next day.

12. Are business owners required to have a fire inspection?

Yes. Gainesville Fire-Rescue's inspection program encompasses all commercial property in the City limits of Gainesville. Your occupancy will be contacted in advance of an upcoming fire inspection.

13. What are typical hazards and violations looked for during a fire inspection?

Some of the more common hazards and violations include:
*Accumulation of waste materials, rubbish, paper, high weeds, etc.
*Defective wiring, switches, plugs, or junction box covers missing.
*Obstruction of electrical control panels.
*Extension cords used as permanent wiring, or misused.
*Fire suppression or sprinkler system inspections out of date.
*Fire extinguisher inspections out of date or fire extinguishers missing.
*Address not plainly visible and legible from roadway.
*Exits obstructed.
*Exit signs missing or not illuminated.
*Improper usage or storage of flammable materials.
*High pressure cylinders not adequately secured.

14. What type of early warning system does the City of Gainesville have for severe weather?

The City of Gainesville Emergency Management Division utilizes a comprehensive severe weather early warning system. This system consists of storm spotters, the CodeRED alert system, which is a high speed telephone notification system and IPAWS (Integrated Public Alert Warning System. You may sign up to receive CodeRED emergency alerts on the City's website.

15. How can request a copy of a fire report?

A specific form is not required for submitting requests, but the Public Information form is available for your convenience, should you wish to submit your request via mail, email, or in person.

Request for Fire Report

16. How do I obtain or verify a 9-1-1 Address in the City of Gainesville?

How do I obtain a 9-1-1 Address? Please complete the 9-1-1 Address Form and submit to the Fire Marshal's office.  

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1. When and where does the City Council meet?

The City Council meets at 6:30 pm on the first and third Tuesdays of each month at City Hall located on 200 S. Rusk St.  Agendas for meetings can be found here.

2. How can I request city records?

Because the Texas Public Information Act is only activated by a written request for documents, all requests for copies of City records must be in writing. Requests for public information can be made through the City Secretary's Office.  To learn more about methods to submit your request, click here.

The Texas Public Information Act does not require governmental bodies to create new information, perform legal research, or to answer questions. The request must ask for records or information already in existence. The City of Gainesville will not comply with a standing request for information to be collected or prepared in the future. Please be advised that there is a charge for copies of public information in accordance with state law.

3. What day is my trash picked up?

Trash is serviced on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday or Friday depending on your address. Please contact 668-4551 for your service day.  Click here for more information on residential cart refuse service.

4. How do I contact a city department?

Use our Staff Directory to view department contact information.

5. Can I burn trash or tree limbs on my property?

Limited outdoor burning may be conducted under strict guidelines with a permit. Contact the Fire Marshal’s Office at (940) 668-7777 for further information.

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1. How do I contact a city/county department?

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

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1. Can I pay out my fine?

You can set up a payment plan for your fine. You must appear at the court in person to enter a plea and fill out the paperwork to set up the payment schedule. Payment plans cannot be done over the phone or by mail.

2. Do I have to see the Judge to enter my plea?

No, you can enter your plea with the clerk at the window and take care of your fine.

3. Can I take a Defensive Driving Course for my citation?

There are certain criteria that you and your citation must meet before you can take a Defensive Driving course. You must have a valid current class C Texas Driver License and insurance, speeding no more than 25 miles over the posted sped limit and the violation can not have occured in a school zone or construction zone with workers present. You must first enter your plea and pay a fee of $114.00 to the court ($139.00 if the violation occurred in a School Zone).

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1. Where do I get a Moss Lake Boat Permit?

Moss Lake Boat Permits may be purchased at 104 W. Hird Street, Monday -Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. They can also be purchased at "The Bait Stop-N-Shop Store" located at Moss Lake by the south boat ramp. The store is open everyday except Tuesday from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. and the phone number is 940-580-9093. If you have any question please call the Public Works office at 940-668-4540.

2. How do I get a missing or damaged street/traffic sign(s) replaced?

Public Works, Streets Division is responsible for replacing or repairing City street and traffic signs. Please call (940) 668-4540 to report missing or damaged sign(s).

3. How do I get a pothole fixed?

Public Works, Street Division is responsible for repairing potholes in City owned public streets. Please call (940) 668-4540 to report a pothole.

California Street, Grand Avenue, Highway 82 and the Frontage Roads are maintained by the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT) . Please call (940) 665-5312 to report a pothole at these locations or Click here.

4. How do I find out who is responsible for maintaining or replacing the sidewalk in front of my home/business?

Per City ordinance the adjacent property owner is responsible for maintenance and/or replacement of the sidewalk. Please call (940) 668-4540 if you have any questions.

5. How do I get a streetlight fixed?

Streetlights are owned and maintained by Oncor Electric.To report street light outages contact Oncor Electric at 1-888-313-4747 or click the link. Oncor Streetlight Webpage

6. How do I get a storm drain unclogged?

If you notice an inlet is blocked, or storm water is not draining from a street, please call (940) 668-4540 to report flooded locations or problem areas. For after hours emergencies, contact the Gainesville Police Department at (940) 668-7777 and the request will be forwarded to our standby personnel.

7. How do I get a sewer blockage checked?

We recommend you first contact the Wastewater Collections Division at (940) 668-4540 during normal working hours, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. For after hour emergencies, contact the Gainesville Police Department at (940) 668-7777 and the request will be forwarded to our standby personnel. We will flush the public sanitary sewer you are connected to at no charge. This will help determine where the blockage is. If the blockage is in your house lateral we will advise you to call a plumber.

8. How do I report a sewer odor?

Call the Public Works Department at (940) 668-4540.

9. How do I report a water leak at my residence?

The homeowner is responsible for the pipes within the house, as well as the water service line from the house to the water meter box. If you see water coming out of the ground near your water meter box please call (940) 668-4540. We will inspect this at no charge to you. For after hours emergencies, contact the Gainesville Police Department at (940) 668-7777 and a crew will be dispatched to investigate the situation and take the appropriate action.

10. How do I report water running down the street?

If you notice an unusual discharge of water, whether it is in the street, from a meter, or a hydrant, call the Water Distrubition Division at (940) 668-4540 during normal working hours, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. For after hours emergencies, contact the Gainesville Police Department at (940) 668-7777 and a crew will be dispatched to investigate the situation and take the appropriate action.

11. How do I get low or high water pressure issues checked?

Call the Water Division of the Public Works Department at (940) 668-4540 during normal business hours. For after hours emergencies, contact the Gainesville Police Department at (940) 668-7777 and the request will be forwarded to our standby personnel.

12. How do I report that my water is cloudy and milky colored?

This is typically the air in the line. If you run your water for a short time, it should clear. If not, call (940) 668-4540.

13. How do I report a bad odor or taste in the water?

Call the Public Works Department at (940) 668-4540.

14. How do I report a fire hydrant leaking?

Call the Public Works Department at (940) 668-4540.

15. How do I report water and sewer problems after normal working hours?

For after hours emergencies, contact the Gainesville Police Department at (940) 668-7777 and the request will be forwarded to our standby personnel.

16. How do I arrange for a tour of the Wastewater Treatment Plant?

To arrange a plant tour, contact the Wastewater Treatment Plant at (940) 668-4543.

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1. How do I contact a city department?

Use our Staff Directory to view contact information for each department.

2. Can I burn trash or tree limbs on my property?

Limited outdoor burning may be conducted under strict guidelines with a permit. Contact the Fire Marshal’s Office at (940) 668-7777 for further information.

2017-2018 Holiday Schedule

3. Does the city offer recycling services?

The city does not currently offer curbside recycling; however, the city does accept recycling at our transfer station facility located at 601 N. I-35.

4. How do I schedule a special pick up on Wednesday?

Please contact Solid Waste at 668-4551 to schedule a special pick up. If your trash day is on Monday or Friday, we service special pick up in your area on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month during a non-holiday week. If your trash day is on Tuesday or Thursday, we service special pick up in your area on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month during a non-holiday week.

5. How Do I Start or Stop Service?

Solid waste service to residents is initiated or terminated in conjunction with your water service through the City of Gainesville. Contact Customer Service Reps at (940)668-4500 or visit City Hall located at 200 South Rusk, between 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. to start or stop service.

6. What is the monthly charge for residential waste collection?

The basic monthly fee for residential solid waste collection is $19.52 per month.

Special bulk item and yard waste pick-ups are scheduled on Wednesday, provided that the City offices are not closed for a Holiday. Special bulk items will have a charge of $33.75 per item. These charges will appear on the customer’s water bill. Please call General Services Department at (940)668-4551 to request this service.

7. Where do I pay my bill?

Monthly bills may be paid by mail, in person or after hours in the drop box located at City Hall or by bank draft. Automatic bank drafting service allows residential customers to have their monthly bill paid automatically from their checking or savings account. Visit City of Gainesville at 200 S. Rusk, to pay bills in person or leave payments in the after hours drop box. You may contact the office at (940) 668-4500.

8. Where do I place items?

Place all items at least 4’ feet away from other containers, brush or bulk waste, mailboxes, gas meters, fences, parked cars, overhead obstacles and any other items. Do not block or impede a street, water or gas meter, drainage ditch, intersection or sidewalk. Improperly placed waste may not be collected.

Place bundled brush or bulk items at the front curb.
According to City Ordinance, residential waste shall be placed at the location designated by the city no earlier that 6:00 p.m. of the evening before and no later than 7:00 a.m. of the collection day.

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1. How do I get to the Zoo?

1000 W. California St., Gainesville, TX 76240.

From DFW take I-35 North, exit 497 at California St, turn left (west) on California St., then turn left into Leonard Park.

From Sherman, take Highway 82 West, approximately 30 miles, turn left (south) at I-35, take access road to California Street, turn right at California, then turn left into Leonard Park.

From Ardmore, take I-35, exit 497, at California Street, turn right at California, then turn left into Leonard Park. Frank Buck Zoo Map

2. Can I feed the Flamingos?

Yes! Everyday at 10:15 a.m., you can have a VIP Flamingo Experience for $15/person. Limited to 5 persons maximum, aged 6 and up. Ages 12 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult participant. Call 940-668-4533 to schedule, or ask the Gift Shop to participate if you arrive by 10:00 a.m.

Frank Buck Zoo Animal Encounters

3. Can we feed the animals?

Be sure to bring plenty of quarters for feed vending machines located at the petting zoo. On busy days, once these feeders are emptied, for the health of the animals, they will not be refilled. You can also feed the flamingos daily at 10:15 am for $15/person, up to maximum of 5 people/day (reservations encouraged). See our flamingo feeding tab for more info.  Giraffe Encounter begins at 10:30 am daily and is $6 per person.  Anyone caught bringing outside food into the zoo and feeding animals, unauthorized, will be asked to leave. Thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation to keep our animal family happy & healthy!

4. Do you allow pets?

No.  The Pet Policy states: "For the safety of our animals and your, we do not allow pets."  CERTIFIED SERVICE ANIMALS are permitted when staff is notified and a zoo staff member can walk with you to ensure everyone's safety.  Emotional Support Animals are not covered under the ADA Act.

5. Can we picnic in the zoo?

For the safety of the animal family, no outside food may be brought into the zoo.  Snacks and drinks may be purchased from the Frank Buck Zoo Gift Shop and may be eaten on the dining deck behind the entry building as long the dining deck has not been reserved for a party or other special event.  If you prefer to bring a picnic lunch to enjoy during your outing, please leave any food in a cooler in your car. There are two covered pavilions outside the Frank Buck Zoo, in Leonard Park, as well as many picnic tables and even some grills.  Coolers & ice chests are not allowed in the zoo. As long as you have on your zoo admission wristband you may come and go from the zoo until closing.

6. Can we bring drinks into the zoo?

The Frank Buck Zoo Gift Shop does carry a variety of bottled beverages for sale.  Bottled water and drinks without commercial lids and straws are okay to bring in.  Straws and lids pose a safety hazard to the animal collection.  Glass containers and alcohol are prohibited.  Thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation.

7. Where are your restrooms located?

The restrooms for Zoo Guests ONLY are located behind the Gift Shop.  - Restrooms for Park Patrons are across from the Leonard Park Aquatic Center over the railroad tracks.

8. May I leave and come back in to the zoo?

Yes, same day entry is allowed with that day's wristband color on.

9. When does the Frankie Schmitz Express Train in Leonard Park operate?

Hours and operation are managed by the Gainesville Parks & Recreation Dept. Please call 940-668-4530 for current hours and dates of operation or see below.

For more information please click here.

10. What is the number to the Leonard Park Aquatic Center?

The Leonard Park Aquatic Center is operated and managed by the Gainesville Parks & Recreation Department, and can be reached at 940-668-4530. Pool staff may be reached at 940-668-4534 between the hours of 1:00 pm and 6:00 pm from June through mid August . For more information please click here.