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380

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1. Who is responsible for US 380?

US 380 is a state highway and is under the control of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).  Although controlled by the state, the portion of the road that is between FM 720/Oak Grove Parkway and Doe Creek is within the Little Elm Town limits. TxDOT controls the speed limit, signal light placement and timing, and construction projects; however, the Town of Little Elm provides law enforcement and traffic control along with the Denton County Sherriff's Office and the Department of Public Safety.

2. Who sets the speed limit along 380?

TxDOT sets the speed limit for 380; however, the speed limit is enforced by the Town of Little Elm in conjunction with the Denton County Sherriff's Office and the Department of Public Safety.

3. Who controls the traffic signals and signal placement along 380?

TxDOT manages the timing of signals and placement of traffic signal along 380.

4. Is 380 hands-free?

The portion of U.S. 380 that runs through Little Elm and the entire Town of Little Elm is hands-free. Remember, when in Town, put it down! Click here to watch our Hands-Free When Driving video.

5. Will the Town annex the unincorporated areas along 380 of Paloma Creek?

Currently, there is no plan for the Town of Little Elm to annex unincorporated parts of Paloma Creek. 

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Administration/Town Hall

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1. When is Town Hall open?

Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Friday 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., except for federal holidays and weather emergencies.

2. Who is the Town Manager?

Matt Mueller is the Town Manager. 

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Animal Services

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1. Where is Animal Services located?

Animal Services is located at 1605 Mark Tree Lane, Little Elm, TX 75068.

2. What are the hours for Animal Services?

Monday-Friday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Closed for lunch: noon-1 p.m. 
Saturday: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. by appointment only
Sunday: Closed

3. How do I file a complaint an irresponsible pet owner or request animal service?

To file a complaint or request service, please call 9723-77-1898 to speak with an Animal Services Officer. If an ASO is not available to personally answer your call, please leave a voicemail, and your call will be returned as soon as possible. 

The ASO will need the exact physical address of the complaint, description of the animal (if known), owner’s address (if known), and nature of the complaint. 

The request for service will be assigned to a field ASO who will investigate the complaint and take appropriate action. 

4. What pets are available for adoption?

Most of the animals needing new homes can be seen on our Adoption Information page. Our selection changes regularly, so if you are interested in adopting a pet, we ask that you visit our shelter during regular business hours. We cannot hold animals for potential adopters, and all adoptions are done on a first-come, first-served basis.

5. What do I need to do if I have lost/found an animal?

Lost: If you have a lost pet, we ask that you come to the shelter or visit our Lost and Found Page, and make a lost/found report. It is the owner’s responsibility to visit the shelter and reclaim any lost pet before the expiration of the animal’s five-day hold period. 

Found: All found animals must be reported to Animal Services. Finders can bring the animal to our shelter anytime during our regular hours, or they can request that an Animal Services Officer pick the animal up from their residence. If you are willing to care for the animal until the owner can be located, please let us know when you report it and bring it to the shelter or take it to a vet to be scanned for a microchip. Please be advised that you are considered the owner of said found animal after five days and will be required to abide by all Town ordinances and State Laws, including rabies vaccination.

6. Can I surrender my pet for adoption?

Town of Little Elm residents can bring their pets to the Animal Shelter anytime during the regular hours. **Proof of residency will be required to surrender an animal, such as a water bill or electric bill. All animals that are surrendered by their owner immediately become the property of the Town of Little Elm. While euthanasia is always a last resort, Little Elm Animal Services can never guarantee adoption for any animal that is surrendered to us. Therefore, requests that animals only be brought to us when no other housing alternatives are available.

7. Can I surrender my pet to be put to sleep?

Town of Little Elm residents can bring their pets to the shelter for euthanasia anytime during our regular shelter hours. **We do not provide euthanasia services on Saturdays.

The owner must sign a euthanasia request form pay a $35 fee to perform this service. We request that residents bring their animals to the shelter. A humane lethal injection performs all euthanasia, and the remains are then cremated. Owners may not be present when euthanasia is performed, and no private cremations are offered. If the owner wants a private cremation or for remains to be returned to them, they must make arrangements with one of the local private crematories and let us know which company will be coming to pick the remains up when the animal arrives is brought to the shelter.

8. A bobcat or coyote was spotted in my neighborhood. What should I do?

Sightings of coyotes and bobcats are common in Little Elm and throughout the North Texas area. A healthy coyote/bobcat sighting does not constitute a threat to residents, and as long as their behavior appears normal, there is no reason to contact Animal Services. Contrary to popular belief, these animals do not live only in rural settings, and many have adapted to survive in suburban and urban areas. 

These small predators may appear to be a threat but pose very little danger to people. However, on rare occasions, pets have been attacked by a coyote or bobcat. 

Homeowners benefit from coyotes and bobcats because their predation keeps the population of rodents and vermin down in the area. For more information, visit www.dfwwildlife.org. 

•  Do keep small dogs and cats inside at night.

•  Do keep the covers secured on your trash receptacles. 

•  Do keep your dog and cat on a leash (as required by city ordinance). 

•  Do report the coyote/bobcat sighting to the DFW Wildlife Coalition at 972-234-9453. 

•  Do try to consider that they were here first. 

• Don't feed your pets on the back porch or leave food out overnight. 

• Don't walk your small dog in wooded areas. 

• Don't approach, chase, make noises, throw rocks, or otherwise taunt a coyote or bobcat. 

• Don't approach any wild animal that appears trapped, injured, or sick. Contact Animal Services immediately at 972-377-1898. 

• Don't ever try to touch a coyote, bobcat, or any other wild animal.

9. What do I do if I am bitten by a dog or cat?

If an animal bites you, even if it is your animal, you are required by State law to report the bite to your Local Rabies Control Authority. If after hours, you can call our on-call officer at 469-853-2929, and an officer will be in contact with you.

10. I found an orphaned baby rabbit/bird/squirrel/other wildlife, what should I do?

These animals are often not "orphans" at all; they are either already old enough to be on their own or are still being cared for by parents who purposely stay away to prevent attracting predators. The best thing to do is call the DFW Wildlife Coalition at 972-234-9453 or visit www.dfwwildlife.org for more information. They can help you determine if the animal needs assistance and contact a local wildlife rehabilitator if necessary.

11. Can I get my dog or cat vaccinated at the shelter?

The Little Elm Shelter does not provide vaccinations to the public; however, Texas Coalition for Animal Protection (TCAP) comes to the shelter quarterly to provide low-cost vaccinations and other basic veterinary services such as heartworm tests, nail trims, and other treatments. You can contact the Animal Shelter at 972-377-1898 for more information or visit the info page here.

12. Will you remove bees from my yard?

The Little Elm Animal Services officers are not equipped to handle bees. A pest control or professional bee removal company would need to be contacted to remove the bees.

13. Will you remove a snake from my home?

If a snake is in your home or garage, an Animal Services Officer will remove it. If the snake is in your yard, it will not be removed. Your yard is their natural habitat. If the snake is left alone, it will leave on its own.

If you have additional questions, or you need more information, contact Animal Services at 972-234-9453.

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Community Integrity

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1. How are codes enforced?

The code enforcement process is typically initiated in several ways: 1) observation of a code violation by Town staff as they patrol the community and do their jobs; 2) as a consequence of an action (for example, an application for a building permit or a request for a zoning variance); or 3) in response to a complaint by an individual.

2. How do I notify the Town about a possible code violation?

A complaint about a possible code violation is made by letter, telephone, email, or in-person to the appropriate Town department. In an average year, the Town receives thousands of complaints related to possible code enforcement violations.

Please be prepared with specific information, such as the property's address, a detailed description of the situation, and the length of time you have observed the situation. Complaints may be made anonymously (however, this may restrict the Town's ability to follow up on the complaint or obtain additional details that might assist in resolving the situation).

3. What is the procedure for following up on possible code violations?

Town staff responds to code enforcement complaints according to the impact of the violation on the community. Situations that appear to pose a serious risk to health and safety are given top priority; others are pursued in the order in which they are received.

For all types of code complaints, the first step in the follow-up procedure is personal contact by a Town staff member to ascertain if a code violation exists and request remediation. Suppose the individual responsible for the situation is not available or appears unwilling to correct the code violation in a timely manner voluntarily. In that case, a notice of violation or a citation may be issued. The Town may also take court action if the situation poses a significant risk to the community or if the individual has ignored previous notices/citations. 

4. When Is the Town Responsible for Repairing or Replacing a Retaining Wall?

The Town is responsible for maintaining, repairing, or replacing retaining walls located on Town-owned property.

5. When Are Property Owners Responsible for Repairing or Replacing a Retaining Wall?

Property owners are responsible for maintaining, repairing, or replacing retaining walls located on their property. The Town is not legally allowed to spend public funds on private property.

6. When Are Homeowners Associations Responsible for Repairing or Replacing a Retaining Wall?

An HOA is responsible when the wall is placed in an HOA maintenance easement or located on the HOA property.

7. What Town Ordinances Determine Responsibility?

Section 107.08.02(j)(5)

(5)Retaining walls dividing properties. When a retaining wall is placed along a shared property line, the maintenance of the retaining wall shall be the sole responsibility of the property owner whose land is located at the higher elevation of the adjacent properties. Learn more here.

8. Retaining Wall Information/Mitigation Tips

A damaged retaining wall can become a hazard to property and human safety. Understanding and recognizing the causes of retaining wall failure can help you avoid costly repairs.

The following are common problems, along with tips to prevent retaining wall failure: 

· Rotting (if wood)

· Crumbling (if concrete)

· Soil separation

· Water pooling (look around the base)

· Fractures or shifting

How Can You Mitigate Damage to Your Retaining Wall

Fill in Eroded Areas. If you've identified erosion areas, you will want to replace any missing soil quickly to stop erosion from worsening.

Add Plants. Soil integrity is critical to the structural integrity of your wall. If the soil behind it starts to loosen, the wall can collapse.

One way to help keep the dirt compact and sturdy is to use plants to maintain your retaining wall. Their roots will help hold the soil in place and reduce erosion.

Overflowing Saturation. If the ground behind your retaining wall does not drain properly, you will begin to experience failure. When water collects and puddles behind the retaining wall, the pressure against the wall can easily double. To prevent this, you may need to ensure that your yard is graded correctly to direct water away from the wall.

Foundation Settlement. Retaining walls are built to keep soil materials from falling. However, the soil underneath a retaining wall can begin to compress or subside, causing the wall to settle. Unfortunately, if the retaining wall settles enough, the entire wall can fail.

Seek Professional Services. We recommend that you hire a professional if you have a retaining wall to assess your wall for damages and make necessary repairs.

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Economic Development

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1. What does the Little Elm Economic Development Corporation do?

The Little Elm EDC is charged with attracting new commercial business, new tourism opportunities, and new jobs to Little Elm. Our mission is to advance economic development in Little Elm while capitalizing on our lakeside character and sense of community.

2. How can I do business in Little Elm?

The Little Elm Economic Development Corporation recommends to local residents and prospective entrepreneurs who desire to locate a small business in the Town to contact the following governmental agencies for information on business planning and how to develop a plan to finance a business. Learn more on our Economic Development Corporation site here. 

•    U.S. Small Business Administration 

•    Texas Guide to Starting a Business

•    Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

•    North Central Texas College Small Business Development Center

We are more than happy to help identify space for perspective businesses looking for tenant space, once a business plan has been solidified. That business plan should to include the following information:

•       The amount of the capital investment

•       Number of jobs it will create

•       Anticipated annual sales and anticipated sales tax

 

3. How does buying online benefit the economy of the Town?

Buying online and having your items delivered to an address within Little Elm‘s geographical boundaries helps because the sales tax from those purchases are allocated to the Town.

4. When leasing a commercial site, what does NNN mean?

These pass-through expenses of leasing are portions tenants or lessees pay in addition to the lease fee or rent to the landlord or lessor. The NNN fees are property taxes, property insurance, and common area maintenance and will change yearly based on the reassessed values.

5. Why are there so many dentists, nail salons, and donut shops?

The market determines the need for these services. Each business owner will do an analysis to determine if the market can bear another one of these types of businesses. Usually, they take smaller spaces and are willing to pay the higher lease rates to be in an area with the draw of a big box retailer.

6. How can I get my favorite business to open up in Little Elm?

We are always happy to take suggestions! A contact name and number/email for the business you like is always helpful. The biggest challenge is knowing who to contact. We consider all suggestions and pursue the businesses that fit in the Town’s Strategic Vision and the probability of the operator’s success. It is important to know that corporations often have specific criteria that must be met before considering a site. Occasionally the town may not meet the benchmarks they require, but we constantly circle back to those businesses in hopes of considering us in the future. So feel free to send your ideas our way! We are always willing to chase prospective leads and try and recruit those unique venues to Little Elm.

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Fire Department

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1. Does the Fire Department offer CPR classes?

No, not currently. Contact the American Heart Association or the Dallas Chapter of the American Red Cross for information on CPR classes offered in our area. 

2. I have questions about my ambulance bill. Who do I call?

All ambulance billing is outsourced to a third party. If you need to provide insurance information or have a question about a bill, please contact Emergicon toll-free at 1-877-602-2060 for assistance. Payments for ambulance billing should be mailed directly to Emergicon per the instructions provided on the billing. Payments are not accepted at any of our fire stations.

3. Does the Fire Department host birthday parties?

No, but we can arrange for a fire engine to stop by your party if the location is in Town limits. Call 214-975-0420 to schedule.

4. I changed the battery in my smoke detector, but it keeps beeping.

Batteries in all smoke detectors need to be changed out simultaneously, preferably twice a year. Dust and dirt buildup also affects how well the units operate, so clean your smoke detectors thoroughly when you change out the batteries. Additionally, smoke detectors have a life span of around ten years. 

If your home is close to this age, you can remove one of your smoke detectors and see the manufacture date on the back label. If the detector is nearly ten years old or older, you may need to replace the detector(s). 

If the problem persists, contact the fire administration office at 214-975-0420 during normal business hours. After hours, call LEPD non-emergency 214-975-0460.

5. Does the Town have a tornado shelter?

No, residents are encouraged to shelter in place during severe weather. Information links on emergency preparedness can be found on the Town's website under Departments, then Emergency Management.

6. Who do I contact about a home safety inspection for adoption or foster home designation?

To schedule a home safety inspection, contact the Fire Marshal at 214-975-0417.

7. Does the Fire Department assist in car seat installation?

No. Please check with one of the local hospitals or search for car seat techs in the area online. 

8. Does the Town require a burn permit for outdoor burning?

Yes, for residents living within town limits. You may burn brush, but no trash or building material. Permits are $25 and can be purchased at the Public Safety Building, Records Section in the lobby at 88 W. Eldordao Parkway, Monday-Friday between 8 am and 5 pm. Payments by check or cash (exact change please). For residents outside town limits, visit Denton County's website for information on their burn permit process. If you are not sure if you are in the Town limits or in the county, contact the Fire Marshal 214-975-0417 for clarification.

Denton County website

9. Is today a burn day?

Denton County’s Emergency Management Office makes the determination on burn days. Call 940-349-2840 for automated information and to log in your control burn or visit Denton County's website.

Denton County website

10. Does the fire department have a local Explorers program for teenagers interested in the fire service?

For information on how to become involved in Little Elm Fire Department’s Explorer Program, 

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Garage Sales

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1. How do I obtain a garage sale permit?

Garage sale permits are available at the Receptionist Desk located on the first floor of Town Hall (100 West Eldorado Parkway) Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Garage Sale Permits can also be purchased online using a credit card here. 

After purchasing, you can go to the Little Elm Public Library or Little Elm Recreation Center with their receipt to exchange for five garage sale signs.

During regular business hours, residents can visit the Permitting Department in Town Hall to purchase Garage Sale Permits in person or redeem their receipt.

The fee is $10 (cash or check) and includes five signs that meet our specifications. The permit may only be obtained by an adult occupant of the property where the garage sale or their designated representative will conduct it. The Town may verify proof of ownership or occupancy by a copy of the deed, a copy of the rental or lease agreement, or water account information. You will be required to post a copy of the permit at the garage sale location throughout the sale.

2. How many garage sales can I have?

Garage sale permits are issued by property address, not applicant name. Each address is allowed three garage sales per calendar year. A minimum of 30 days must elapse between garage sales. Community garage sales do not count against your three allowed sales per year.

3. Where are garage sales they allowed?

A garage sale may only be issued for properties that are zoned for residential use. Garage sale items may be displayed for sale only in the following areas: residential yard, garage, patio area, under a carport covering, driveway, or inside a residence.

4. How long can it run?

A garage sale permit will be valid for up to three consecutive calendar days. On each day, the garage sale is allowed to open 30 minutes following the sunrise and must close 30 minutes before sunset. All garage sale items must be removed by 8 a.m. the day following the last day of the sale.

5. What if my garage sale is rained out?

If inclement weather occurs during the garage sale long enough to cause a full day’s worth of cancellation, the garage sale shall not count towards the three allowed garage sales per year for that property. The occupant must contact the Permit Department on the next business day following the cancellation to reschedule the sale. If the applicant does not notify the Permit Department the following business day, the garage sale will be counted. Permit fees will not be refunded under any circumstances.

6. Can my friends sell their goods at my garage sale?

No more than three families may combine their property for sale at a single garage sale. If you want to include more than three families then you will need to follow the regulations for a Community Garage Sale.

7. What are Community Garage Sales?

A Community Garage Sale can be held by an Organized Neighborhood Association (POA, HOA, NA). Each Neighborhood Association is allowed two Community Garage Sales per calendar year. A Board member of the Neighborhood Association would be responsible for obtaining the permit. Community Garage Sales do not count against your allowed sales per year for your individual property. Items must be placed at least seven feet back from the curb and at least five feet from the sides of the property.

8. Can nonprofit organization conduct garage sales?

A nonprofit organization may conduct a garage sale on the nonprofit organization’s property regardless of zoning or on other property with permission. If the nonprofit desires to conduct a garage sale on property not its own, they must present a letter from the property owner authorizing the garage sale on their property. The letter must include the name of the nonprofit organization and the dates the sale is to take place. The garage sale will be counted as a sale for the property on which it takes place. The number of families in the garage sale is not restricted.

9. How many garage sale signs can I have?

The Town will issue five signs for each garage sale. All other signs are strictly prohibited. You may only use the signs provided to you by the Town and only for the sale they are permitted for.

10. Do I have to pay for the signs?

When you apply for a garage sale permit you will be provided five signs from the Town. The fee for the permit covers the cost of the signs. These signs must then be affixed to a wood or metal stake.

11. Where can I put the signs?

No signs are allowed in any public right of way or on a utility pole. Before placement of a garage sale sign on private property, permission must be obtained from the property owner. Such consent must be indicated by the property owner’s signature on the back of the garage sale sign.

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Library

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1. How do I get a library card?

Applicants must complete a library card application available at the Front Desk. You must show proof of current address in the form of an ID or document such as a lease or utility bill. Parents can obtain a card for their minor children.

Download the Library Card Application

2. Do you have internet access?

Yes. We offer patrons internet access. 

3. Do you have a fax?

Yes, you can send and receive faxes. Costs for outgoing faxes are: $0.50 cents per page for both local and long distance faxes. Incoming faxes are $0.50 per page.

4. How do I renew items?

You can renew items in person or by calling 214-975-0430 or through the electronic catalog.

5. What if the item I want is checked out?

If an item is checked out, you may place a hold to reserve that item. 

6. Does the library accept donations?

Not at this time. 

7. Where can I get more details about library cards, hold, renewals, and donations?

For more details about library cards, holds, renewals, visit www.littleelmlibrary.org.

8. How do I get a PIN?

A PIN must be obtained in person at the Library. Just bring in your card or ID for verification and library staff will issue your PIN. If you lose or forget your PIN a new PIN can only be issued in person.

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Parks & Recreation

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1. What facilities can I rent and how do I do that?

Rentals must be made in person Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. or Friday 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Parks and Recreation Administrative Office inside the Little Elm Recreation Center at 303 Main St., Little Elm, TX 75068. 

If you have any questions regarding our rental facilities, don't hesitate to get in touch with the Parks and Recreation Department at 972-731-3296. Fees Rental fees can be paid for by cash, check or money order, payable to "Town of Little Elm", or credit cards. Payments, fees, and deposits are due at the time of reservation. 

We do not hold reservations without payment. The deposit will be returned by mail two to threes weeks after the event, as long as there are no violations of the rules.

You can rent pavilions at Little Elm Beach (two available), Beard Park, and the Splash Pad. In addition, there are rooms at The Rec at The Lakefront™  and the Community Center. 

More...

2. Where do I sign up for youth sports leagues?

You can register your child through the Little Elm Area Youth Sports Association (LEAYSA) website.

3. What adult sport leagues do you offer?

Our Adult Athletic Leagues are managed from the Rec Center. For more information, visit www.teamsideline.com/littleelm.

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4. Do the parks and beach cost money?

No, they are free for residents and non-residents.

There is a $10 per vehicle fee per trip into the park, 

Parking fees begin on April 1, 2023. 

 

Parking attendants take cash or credit cards onsite. We also offer a Resident Seasonal Parking Pass for $25 and Non-Resident Seasonal Parking Pass for $75. 

 

Passes will be available on March 6, 2023. Passes must be purchased in person at The Rec at The Lakefront™ at 303 Main Street, Little Elm. 

 

Purchasing a Little Elm Park Season Parking Pass does not guarantee a parking spot. This is not a come-and-go pass, so every time you re-enter the park, the fee will apply. 

 

All parking pass purchases require proof of residency documentation (valid state-issued ID). Residency is determined by Little Elm property tax status. Confirm you pay Little Elm property taxes at www.dentoncad.com. 

 

Individuals assigned to Little Elm ISD but residing outside the Town of Little Elm incorporated limits are non-residents. In addition, residents of Little Elm's extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) are non-residents. 

 

Season Pass Overview:

• $25 seasonal pass for residents 
• $75 seasonal pass for non-residents 
• Seasonal parking passes are not valid during these special events:
  • Big Easy (March 4)
  • July Jubilee (July 4)
  • Brew & Que (June 3)
  • Autumn Fest (September 14-17)

Parking Start/End Date:

• Parking fees are effective April 1-September 4, 2023
• April 2023
  • Friday and Saturday, 4–10 p.m.
• May 1-Labor Day Weekend
  • Fridays noon–10 p.m.
  • Saturdays and Sundays 7 a.m.-10 p.m.

Rates:

• Standard rate at the gate of $10 per car 
• Memorial Day Weekend
  • Saturday, May 27-Monday, May 29 - $20
• Brew & Que Saturday, June 3
  • $10 with advance purchase of a ticket and $25 for day-of parking
• July Jubilee Weekend
  • Saturday, July 1- Monday, July 3 - $20
  • Tuesday, July 4 - $40 for advance premium concrete parking and $30 for day-of overflow lot parking
    
    

Other Dates with Charged Parking:

• Big Easy
  • Saturday, March - $10
• Autumn Fest
  • Friday, September 15, and Saturday, September 16 - $10

 

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Planning & Zoning

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1. What is zoning?

Zoning is a manner of establishing the types of land uses permitted on a specific tract of land. Zoning also sets development standards, density, parking and loading requirements, lot coverage, lot area, and screening requirements.

2. Why do we need zoning?

Zoning is established to protect the community’s health, safety and welfare. The restrictions on how certain areas are developed ensure safer neighborhoods, more attractive business areas, and well-designed communities. Regulating how property develops also provides citizens with an idea of the type of future development that can occur in their neighborhood or adjacent to their business. Zoning is also one of several tools to use in implementing the Town’s long-range plans.

3. What effect does zoning have on my property?

Property must be zoned correctly before a building permit will be issued. In addition, development plans must comply with the development standards for that district. For example, there are increased setback and screening standards in the more intense commercial and industrial districts when located next to residentially-zoned properties. These standards decrease adverse impacts on residential property.

4. What zoning do I need?

The specific zoning district you need depends on the type of uses you wish to develop. The Town of Little Elm has 22 zoning districts, each with its own requirements and allowed uses. In addition, an applicant can ask for a Planned Development, which enables the applicant to “pick and choose” their uses and development requirements. A PD will require additional reviews by Town Staff before going to a public hearing, and the applicant will have to provide the Town with detailed site plans and their application.

5. What are the zoning fees?

The Town’s processing fees are based on the type of zoning request and the land area being zoned: Zoning Request(<50 acres): $500 Zoning Request(>50 acres): $500 + $10/acre Planned Development(PD): $900 + $20/acre Specific Use Permit(SUP): $300

6. How do I determine the type of use I may develop?

All uses are listed in a chart in Section 6 of our Zoning Ordinance. Contact the Planning and Development Department at 214-975-0472 to verify the type of zoning you need for a specific use. Staff will discuss your proposed uses and whether those uses are permitted in your current zoning district. If your intended use is not permitted, staff will advise you as to the zoning district you would need to apply for.

7. How do I change zoning?

Zoning may only be changed through the public hearing process. If you determine that you need to change the zoning on your property you must first discuss your change with a Town Planner.

The Planning staff will discuss the surrounding zoning, land uses, recent area zoning trends, adopted development-related policies and any other factors important to your zoning change. Staff will also provide you with a zoning application form and a submittal schedule.

8. What information is required?

A signed and completed zoning application form and fee should accompany any submission for a zoning change. A survey of the property with metes and bounds and a certified tax certificate for the property are also required. The applicant will also be held responsible for making sure that a sign is erected on the property to make the public hearing known.

9. What is a Specific Use Permit?

A Specific Use Permit (SUP) allows for specific uses on a property that is not commonly allowed in that zoning district. These are typically used for daycares, self-storage facilities, used car lots and other uses. The process for obtaining a SUP is similar to the zoning process. The Planning and Zoning Commission, Town Council and/or Town Staff may require a site plan and/or a feasibility study to be included with the SUP application. Section 6 of the Town’s Zoning Ordinance lists what SUPs are available in each Zoning District.

10. How can I participate in a public hearing?

During public hearings, the applicant and any individuals in “favor” of or “opposed” to the request have an opportunity to present their views. In addition to speaking at the Public Hearing, you may also send letters to the Commission and Council or discuss the case with the members. A more formal process is to submit a petition of support of opposition to the case.

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Platting & Subdivisions

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1. Are there different types of plats?

There are several different types of plats and different processes for approving plats. Contact the Planning and Development Department for additional information at 214-975-0472. Preliminary Plat A Preliminary Plat is required if you are dividing your property into more than one lot. This step may be skipped if you are platting a one-lot subdivision. 

A Preliminary Plat shows the street layout, lots and other information needed to ensure that the subdivision design concept conforms with Town and State regulations. It is intended to be general in nature, showing approximate locations and dimensions. Final Plat A Final Plat is the next step in the development process after approval of a Preliminary Plat by the Planning and Zoning Commission and Town Council. The Final plat is a technical drawing showing the exact dimensions and bearings and is the instrument that becomes the official, permanent record of the division of land filed with Denton County. Final plats must comply with the approved Preliminary Plat. 

A Final Plat may be created for every lot shown on the approved Preliminary Plat or for a portion of the lots shown on the Preliminary Plat. A replat is required when you are revising existing platted lots or combining platted and unplatted lots to create a new lot configuration. Certain replats require a public hearing and written notice to other property owners within the existing subdivision. Amended Plat An Amended Plat is used to relocate an internal lot line, combine lots, correct an error, or other minor changes. This is approved administratively.

2. What information is required?

A signed and completed plat application form, fee, a signed plat checklist and current certified copies of tax certificates should accompany any plat submission. If construction is anticipated to follow platting, a signed copy of the Engineering Plan checklist is required along with preliminary Engineering Plans. Replats may also require mailing labels (Avery 5160) with the property owner’s addresses for every lot within the subdivision. In addition, you will need to submit seven folded copies of your plat (24” X 36”) and seven copies of the engineering plans (if construction will follow platting).

Checklists, applications, the submittal schedule, and our Subdivision Ordinance can be obtained at the Planning and Development Department.

3. What are the platting fees?

The Town’s processing fees are based on the type of plat and the land area being platted:

Preliminary Plat
Single Family $300 + $15/lot
Multi-Family and Non-Residential $300 + $25/acre

Final Plat
Single Family $300 + $10/lot
Multi-Family & Non-Residential $300 + $20/acre

Replat
Single Family $200 + $15/lot + postage
Multi-Family & Non-Residential $200 + $25/acre

Amended Plat
Amended Plat $100 + $20/lot

4. What is a plat?

A plat is a property survey that describes the dimensions and location of lot lines, streets, and easements. A plat also establishes the lot, block, and subdivision name used in real estate transactions. A plat is a legal document complete with a drawing of the property boundaries, a written description of those boundaries, a dedication statement, an owner’s certification statement, a title block, and approval statements. A licensed land surveyor or engineer must prepare plats. A plat is not the property survey required by mortgage companies when closing the sale of the property.

5. Why is platting required?

The platting process ensures that all lots comply with the Town of Little Elm’s Subdivision Ordinance and protects public health, safety and welfare. Plats are reviewed for compliance with regulations regarding minimum lot size and lot width; setbacks; street access and size; utility provisions; parks and open space provisions; and drainage and flood protection.

6. When is a plat required?

There are several situations that require the platting of property. Generally, a plat is required: 1. If your property is vacant, it has never been platted, and you wish to build a new structure. A plat is not required if you are adding to or altering an existing home or adding a storage shed, etc. 2. If you are selling a portion of the property you own, you must have a plat showing all the property you own and how you intend to divide it approved by the Town. 3. If you own two adjacent lots and wish to build over the common lot line.

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Police Dept

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1. Where can I renew my driver's license?

Go to any office of the Texas Department of Public Safety.

2. Why do I have to have an alarm permit for my home or business?

Town ordinance # 730 requires that alarm system users obtain a permit. The permit must be obtained within 30 days of activation of the alarm. The permit must be renewed annually. Each year there is a fee of $25.

Alarm Permit

3. How do I pick up lost or recovered property from the Police Department?

If you believe that the Little Elm Police Department has property that belongs to you, please call 214-975-0460. Once we have verified that we have your property, we will set up an appointment time to retrieve your property. A single detective purposely controls the Property and Evidence Room to ensure consistency and compliance with chain of custody requirements.

4. My bike was lost or stolen. What should I do?

In either case, contact the police to report it. If it was stolen, an offense report will be written. Information about the stolen bike will be entered into the appropriate databases that law enforcement uses to check for such items. If it was lost, an incident report will be created, and information passed on to other shifts. In both cases, reporting it increases the odds that your bike will be located and returned to you.

5. I found a bike. What should I do?

Report a found bike, or any other found property, to police. A found property report will be written, and we will research our databases to see if someone reported that bicycle or other item stolen or lost. If they did, it can be returned to the rightful owner.

6. If I find a bike and no one claims it, may I keep it?

First, you should report it to the police so that a found property report can be generated and we can check to see if it has been reported lost or stolen. If you keep it and do not report it as found property, you may later be accused of stealing it. The bike will be taken and stored at the police department for sixty days. After that time, if no one claims it, you may contact us and request that the bike be given to you. We will consider that request, and if no other reports are found for that item, it can be given to you.

7. Can drones fly over my house?

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued new rules for hobbyist drone pilots to keep the national airspace safe and available for both manned and unmanned aircraft. Hobbyist or recreational drone pilots are no longer exempt under Section 336 and are now required to follow these new FAA rules and regulations in controlled airspace.

But, what about flying drones in residential areas? This is a question that we hear frequently. The answer is: currently, no Town ordinance prevents a drone from flying over a residence.

We are regulated by federal law regarding restricting certain movement of drones because of federal airspace laws in part (FRN 49 USC44809), but Section 423 of government code Title 4 states in part:

Sec. 423.003. OFFENSE: ILLEGAL USE OF UNMANNED AIRCRAFT TO CAPTURE IMAGE. (a) A person commits an offense if the person uses an unmanned aircraft to capture an image of an individual or privately owned real property in this state with the intent to conduct surveillance on the individual or property captured in the image.

(b) An offense under this section is a Class C misdemeanor.

(c) It is a defense to prosecution under this section that the person destroyed the image:

(1) as soon as the person had knowledge that the image was captured in violation of this section; and

(2) without disclosing, displaying, or distributing the image to a third party.

(d) In this section, "intent" has the meaning assigned by Section 6.03, Penal Code.

If you have questions or concerns about a drone near your property, call the Little Elm Police Department non-emergency number at 214-975-0460.

Read the new rules for drones from the FAA here.

8. Who determines the speed limit?

The general speed limit is determined by the State of Texas; however, local municipalities may work within these guidelines to determine the speed limit in certain areas.

9. What should I do if I have a concern about speeders in my neighborhood?

Contact the Little Elm Police Department. The Police Department can deploy radar trailers and additional patrol officers to an area of concern, which has been shown to be the best method of ensuring drivers maintain speed control.

10. What is the speed limit in my neighborhood?

The State of Texas Transportation Code establishes a 30 mph speed limit on all residential streets.

11. Can the speed limit on my street or in my neighborhood be lowered?

Local entities have limited ability to change residential speed limits. In certain situations, there are opportunities to lower the speed limit to 25 mph. However, the criteria and signage requirements typically make this unfeasible.

Based on historic evidence, Town staff has found that law enforcement is the best method to ensure drivers maintain speed control. The Police Department can deploy radar trailers and additional patrol officers to an area of concern.

12. Why doesn’t the Town/my neighborhood have speed bumps?

They have limited effectiveness, inhibit emergency vehicles' ability to respond, cause drivers to lose control and veer from the road, and cause damage to the undercarriage of vehicles. They can also increase air pollution in neighborhoods due to rapid slowing and acceleration.

13. Why doesn’t my neighborhood have “Children at Play” signs?

·       Warning signs are intended to alert drivers to unexpected or unusual conditions. The presence of children in a residential area is neither unusual nor unexpected, and so these signs provide no useful information to drivers and no clear direction as to how drivers should react.

·       There is no evidence to indicate that these signs actually reduce speeds or crash rates.

·       The use of unnecessary and ineffective warning signs breeds a general lack of respect for all traffic signs, potentially harming the effectiveness of critical signing.

·       The signs provide children and parents with a false sense of security which can actually lead to an increased risk, as they incorrectly imply that it is safe and acceptable to play in the street.

·       The use of these signs in some neighborhoods incorrectly implies that children are not present in other neighborhoods that do not have signs, and that motorists do not need to be alert for children in those areas.

·       The presence of signs in some areas encourages requests for those signs in other areas. To be fair, signs would need to be posted on nearly every block of every street, making them meaningless to drivers.

·       Federal and State standards do not permit the use of these non-standard signs on public roadways for the reasons described above.

·       Although "Children at Play" and similar signs are not permitted, the Town does install other warning signs when appropriate to alert divers to specific locations which might have unusually high concentrations of children near or crossing the roadway, such as schools and playgrounds.

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Public Works

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1. What items can be recycled?

Residents may place the following recycling items in the blue 95-gallon recycling cart. Follow this link to our trash and recycling Guidelines. 

2. Can I get an additional trash/recycle cart? Is there a charge?

You can order additional carts by contacting the Utility Billing Department at 214-975-0480. There will be an additional charge for trash ($7.23) and recycling ($2.34) carts.

3. My trash cart is missing or stolen. How do I get another one?

Contact the Utility Billing Department at 214-975-0480. There will be a charge of $75 for lost or stolen carts. 

4. Who do I call to report a broken or damaged trash/recycling cart?

Contact the Utility Billing Department at 214-975-0480. 

5. How do I get a trash/recycling cart?

To start services, contact the Utility Billing Department at 214-975-0480. 

6. Who do I call to report a missed trash or recycling collection?

Contact the Utility Billing Department at 214-975-0480. 

7. What time of day will the carts be emptied?

Trash and recycling carts will be emptied between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Carts MUST be curbside by 7 a.m. for service.

8. Can I drop off payments for my utility bills after hours?

Yes, there is an after-hours drop box conveniently located in front of Town Hall at 100 W. Eldorado Pkwy. It is located in the median of the front entrance loop. You can pull right up to the drop box and insert your bill without leaving your vehicle.

9. How can I sign up for auto draft payments for my utility bills through my bank account?

Learn more https://www.littleelm.org/1379/Online-Bill-Pay-Options. 

10. How can I sign up for recurring credit card payments online for my utility bills?

Signing up is quick and easy. Be sure to have a current bill on hand to complete registration and CLICK HERE when you're ready.

11. Can I call Utility Billing for more information about my bill or services?

Yes, we are open Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Friday 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. to answer any water or trash billing questions for you at 214-975-0480.

12. What’s my trash/recycling pick up day? Will the upcoming holiday disrupt services?

View the Town’s 2021 Trash & Recycling Map

13. How do I schedule a large item pick up?

You do not have to schedule a pick up for bulk trash. Simply place the items on the curb on MONDAY by 7 a.m. on your designated bulk trash week. Additional pickups may be scheduled through CWD by calling 972-392-9300; however, additional rates and fees may apply. 

14. My cart has a red tag, what does this mean?

The reason for non-service should be printed on the red tag. The top five causes of red tags are: 

• Cart placed too close to fixed objects. Due to automated arms on the truck, place your bins three feet away from any object.
• Lids not completely closed. Lids must be completely closed in order to be serviced.
• Out of reach. Carts need to be placed at the curb or at the edge of the alley. Lids need to open facing the truck.
• Hazardous waste. Town of Little Elm residents may drop hazardous materials can be disposed of at the Town Courtesy Drop-Site at 1600 Brenda Ln, Little Elm, TX 75068 during our Clean and Green Events in the fall and spring.
• Bulk pick up. The item left out was too large for the cart. Large bulky items need to be placed at the curb on your designated bulk trash pickup.

15. How do I dispose of old paint, pool chemicals, or pesticides?

Town of Little Elm residents may drop hazardous materials can be disposed of at the Town Courtesy Drop-Site at 1690 E. Eldorado Parkway, Little Elm, TX 75068 during our Clean and Green Events in the fall and spring. 

16. How do I dispose of tree limbs/fencing?

Cut tree limbs and tie into 4-foot by 2-foot bundles of less than 50 pounds and place at the curb on your designated bulk trash week. View the Bulk and Brush page. 

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Residential Safety Inspections

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1. How do I schedule a residential safety inspection?

Only the property owner or owner’s designee can obtain an application for a Residential Safety inspection at the Building Inspections Office. A designee may be anyone over 18 that is not the tenant. The property must have no outstanding fees, liens or other amounts due to the Town prior to the Residential Safety Inspection. This includes but is not limited to outstanding utility bills or fees for code violations.

2. Who must be present at the inspection?

The inspectors will not inspect a building unless the owner or a representative of the owner is present. An additional inspection fee will be charged for each inspection trip after the initial two.

3. Why are temporary utilities provided?

To complete the inspection, the inspector requires the water and electricity to be functioning in the home. The applicant or Building Inspections department can authorize temporary electric utility service for ten days while repairs are underway. Water service can also be authorized for a period not to exceed ten days, assuming that the owner properly sets up a water account with a deposit.

4. What if the residence fails the inspection?

If a residence fails the inspection, the building inspector will notify the owner of noncompliance, and permanent water and utilities will not be authorized. In addition, if corrections are not made within ten days, temporary utilities will be disconnected.

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Town Council

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1. How many members are on Council?

The Town Council consists of seven members: six (6) Council Members and the Mayor. The Mayor and Council Members for Place 1 and Place 6 may be residents of any portion of the Town. Council Members for Place 2, 3, 4 and 5 must reside in and be elected from the district for which the specific place applies. The term of office is for three years or any portion thereof.

2. When does the Town Council meet?

Regular meetings are the first and third Tuesday of the month at Town Hall. Special meetings and workshops can be called anytime.

3. How many terms may a council member serve?

Three terms consecutively. 

4. What are the qualifications to serve as Mayor and Council?

Each candidate for Town Council or office of Mayor must be a qualified voter of the Town, must be twenty-one (21) years of age, and have resided in the Town not less than twelve months immediately preceding Election Day. The candidate must also meet the requirements of the Texas Election Code, and shall not after, notice of any delinquency, be in arrears in the payment of any taxes or other liabilities due the Town.

5. What are the duties of the Mayor?

A. the person elected Mayor shall be the presiding officer of all meetings of the Town Council. He/She shall be the official head of the Town government and be able to vote on all matters coming before Council.

6. What are Mayor Pro-Tem duties?

The Town Council shall elect one of its members as Mayor Pro Tem, who shall perform duties of Mayor in the case of the absence or inability of the Mayor to perform the duties of his/her office, and who shall, during that time, be vested with all the powers belonging to the Mayor.

7. What is a quorum of our Town Council?

A quorum consists of four council members, which is necessary to conduct business. The Council shall determine its own rules of procedure; may punish its members for misconduct, and may  may compel the attendance of absent members.

8. Do council members get paid?

Yes, the Mayor receives $100 per meeting and Council Members receive $50 per meeting.

9. How can I participate at a Town Council meeting?

You may participate at a Town Council meeting by submitting a written request on what your topic will be. The request must be approved by either two Council Members, Town Manager, or Mayor. After the approval has been made, your topic will be put on the agenda for a future council meeting.

10. How do I speak at a Town Council meeting?

You will need to fill out a Presentation and Announcement Form and deliver the completed form to the Town Secretary before starting the meeting. The Mayor will call up to the podium those individuals from the audience who have signed up to speak. All speakers are asked to direct their comments to the Town Council, not to the audience. All speakers are to begin by stating their full name and home address for the record. All speakers are given three minutes to speak and may address the Council only once. Speakers will not be allowed to cede time to another speaker. Homeowners Association/large groups are encouraged to designate a spokesperson. Such groups may designate one spokesperson to speak on its behalf with a maximum of ten minutes. The presentations and announcements will then close. State Law prohibits Council from responding to a speaker if the topic is not on the agenda.

11. What are the procedures for enacting regulations and laws of the Town?

The Town Council official actions are by written ordinances, resolutions, or oral motions. Each proposed ordinance shall not be amended or repealed except by the adoption of another ordinance. All ordinances and resolutions passed by the Town Council shall become effective immediately after passage except where publication of a caption is required or where the ordinance, State law, or other provisions of this chapter provide otherwise, in which case the effective date shall be as prescribed in the ordinance.

12. How can I find out more information on what is being discussed at Town Council meeting?

You may go on line to Agendas and Minutes at www.littleelm.org under Departments, Town Secretary, click on Agendas and Minutes; or stop by Town Hall and pick one up.

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Water & Waste Water

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1. Can I turn my water meter on or off?

No. A town employee will do this for you at no cost. The water meter is the town's property, and damages to the meter could be charged to you. Call the Public Works Department at 972-377-5556 or after hours, call emergency number 214-975-0840, and on-call personnel will be notified and dispatched.

2. Do I have any other responsibilities as a Town water user?

Yes, you are required to keep your water meter clear and accessible for reading and maintenance purposes. This includes meters located in utility easements.

3. Do I need to notify the Town when I move?

Yes, you must contact a Utility Billing Customer Representative to close your account before you move. This may be done either in person, by phone, or by sending us a letter telling us the date you want your account closed and where to send the final bill. You will be responsible for the payment of services through the date of your closing.

4. How do I check for a water leak?

Turn off all water in and outside of your house. Do not turn off the master valve. Record the reading on your meter. Do not use any water in your home for one hour. Recheck the meter. The reading should be identical to the reading taken earlier. If it is higher, you have a leak. It is your responsibility to have it repaired.

5. Is there fluoride in my water?

Yes.

6. Who do I contact about problems with my sewer service?

In case of a sewage backup, notify Public Works by calling 972-377-5556. They will check the Town’s main to determine if the problem is the Town’s responsibility or the homeowner's.

7. What are Customer Service's office hours?

Customer Service is open from 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Monday-Thursday, and 7:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. on Friday.

8. What are the Town's responsibilities for water line repairs?

The Town is responsible for the main lines and meter up to the point of the customer’s service line connection to the meter.

9. What are the Town's responsibilities for sewer line problems?

The Town is responsible for sewer main lines and service lateral line repairs up to the customer’s property line.

10. What happens if my water is turned off for non-payment?

Service will be restored upon payment of the entire balance due, including a $50 delinquent fee.

11. What if I did not receive my water bill in the mail?

Your account is billed on a regular basis every month. If you do not receive your bill, by the 10th day of each month call our office immediately. Failure to receive the bill does not exempt the consumer from responsibility to make payment.

12. What if I feel my water bill is to high due to a faulty meter?

Water meters can malfunction; we found that their tendency is to slow down rather than speed up. With advance notice, a test can be scheduled. If the meter tests correctly, you will be charged a $50 testing fee for a residential meter. Commercial accounts are done on contract at cost. If the meter tests incorrectly, you will not be charged the testing fee.

13. What if I feel my water bill is to high?

You can easily check for an error in the meter reading used to calculate your bill. Simply read your water meter to see if the reading is higher or lower than the present reading on your bill. If it is lower, call Customer Service at 214-975-0480, and we will issue a service order to have a meter reader check the read. If the reading is higher, you should check for a leak in your house plumbing or service line.

14. What if I know I won't be able to pay my water bill on time?

Call a Customer Service Representative at 214-975-0480 to discuss payment arrangements.

15. What methods of payment do you accept?

We accepts payments by cash, check, money order, and most credit cards.

16. What number do I call?

Call 214-975-0480 during regular office hours for Customer Service to report water leaks, sewer back-ups, or other water emergencies. 

17. When is my water bill due?

Payment is due on the 20th day of each month. If the 20th falls on a weekend, the payment will be due the following business day by 5 p.m.
A 10 percent penalty is applied on the following business day after the due date and a reminder is mailed/emailed with a cutoff date.