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Animal Control

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1. What happens when an animal is picked up?

• Once the animal is safe and contained All American Dogs (AAD) scans it for a micro chip. If chipped, AAD immediately contacts its owner.
• If the animal is not chipped, AAD posts the animal with pictures on their Facebook page.
• All animals are vaccinated upon entry to the AAD facility. This increases healthy outcomes for the animals under AAD's care.
• Animals are held for a minimum of 5 days before being placed up for adoption. AAD is currently placing 90% of its animal into new forever homes!

2. Where can I see pictures of recently found animals?

To see pictures and descriptions of recently found animals please visit our Animal Care Service providers' Recently Found Pets Facebook photo album. If you do not have Facebook, you can call (972) 382-DOGS [3647].

3. I found an animal and don't know who its owner is, what should I do?

Please call our Animal Care Services provider at (972) 382-DOGS [3647] or complete our I Found a Stray Animal Form. If a weekday, someone will contact you within 24-hours. If a weekend, someone will contact you at the start of the next week. 

4. How do I file a complaint about an animal issue or irresponsible pet owner?

To file a complaint or request service, please call (972) 382-DOGS [3647] or complete our online form. We will need to know the exact physical address of the complaint, description of the animal (if known), and the nature of the concern. 

5. How do animal cruelty calls work?

• Animal cruelty calls are handled by the City of Fate contractor, All American Dogs (AAD). Their process is as follows:
• First AAD validates the concern. If the concern is valid AAD starts the documentation process (photos and a report for the police department).
• AAD then presents its findings to the local police department and aids them (if needed with the court to seize the animal).
• Once AAD has custody of the animal, they take the animal to their vet for a medical evaluation which will be presented to the judge to aid in the decision on where to place the animal.
• If the judge decides to place the animal with AAD, they will then find the animal a new forever home!

6. Who provides Animal Care Services in the City of Fate & what are the hours of operation?

Animal Care Services is provided through All American Dogs, an outstanding private entity who has contracted with the City of Fate to provide animal care services. 

Response to routine service calls are made between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Only EMERGENCY SERVICE CALLS will be provided after these hours and on the weekends. Examples of Emergency Service Calls include: (a) an injured domestic animal when the owner is not known or present, (b) a domestic animal bite to a human when the owner is not known or present, and (c) a domestic animal which has or is showing aggressive or dangerous tendencies (for instance, the animal is rabid). Examples of routine service calls include: (1) a cat in a tree, (2) a deceased animal, or (3) an animal running at large. 

7. What do I do if my neighbors animal is causing a major noise issue?

Per Fate Code of Ordinances 4-4 a person disturbed by an animal that unreasonably barks or makes other unreasonable noises may file a complaint with the City's Animal Care contractor. A complaint must include the (1) name and address of the complainant, (2) exact address of the disturbance, (3) type of animal causing the disturbance and (4) the times that the animal is causing the disturbance. The Animal Care Officer will then deliver a notice to both the owner of the animal and the complainant. If after 10 days the disturbance continues, the complainant may file a complaint in writing with the Municipal Court of Fate. The Animal Care Officer cannot file the complaint with the court on behalf of the complainant.  

8. What happens when a dog bite is reported?

The City's contractor, All American Dogs (AAD), first secures the animal. They then get information on the bite victim and dog owner. They then verify the animals shot records. If the animal's shots are current and the owner has the ability to secure the animal for 10 days, then a home quarantine may be authorized. If the animal's records are not current, then the owner must quarantine the animal within 24 hours at a certified facility, which can be a local vet or at the AAD facility. Lastly, AAD will finalize the bite report upon completion of the quarantine period.

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

Many times these animals are not "orphans" at all and 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 to call the DFW Wildlife Coalition at (972) 234-WILD [9453] or visit their website for more information. They can help you determine if the animal is in need of assistance and to contact a local wildlife rehabilitator, if necessary.

10. What pets are available for adoption?

Most of the animals needing new homes can be seen on our Animal Care Service providers' Animals Needing a Home webpage. 

11. How do I give up my pet for adoption?

The City's Animal Care Service provider does offer the option to surrender your pet as long as their shelter has available capacity. Surrendering your pet is unfortunately not free - $175 per pet. The funds collected are used for food, vet visits, medication and to help cover the costs to care for your pet.  No profit is made from the surrender fees and in almost all cases money is lost.  This service is typically provided to pet owners who are able to demonstrate that they've attempted everything possible but no other option exists. If you would like to proceed with surrendering your pet you may call (972) 382-DOGS [3647].

12. Where can I learn about the City's Animal Care Services regulations?

Please visit the City's Code of Ordinances webpage. 

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Building Inspection

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1. Do I need to register my rental property?

On August 19, 2019 the City of Fate adopted ordinance O-2019-037 establishing a Rental Registration and Inspection program for Single family and Multi-Family dwelling units to begin January 1, 2020. Each owner of a residential rental unit within the City of Fate shall register each rental unit. A separate registration shall be required for each rental unit.

2. Do I need a permit to replace my fence?

Yes. Please fill out the miscellaneous permit application found in the link included. Miscellaneous Permit Application

3. Is a permit required for an accessory building (storage shed)?

Yes, all accessory structures have square footage maximums and are required to meet certain setback requirements and therefore require a permit. To obtain a permit please complete a miscellaneous permit application. Miscellaneous Permit Application

4. Is a permit required for foundation repair?

Yes, the foundation company doing the work must be registered with the City and apply for permit.

5. Is a permit required to replace my water heater?

Yes, State law requires the City to perform an inspection of water heater replacements, additionally state law requires a licensed plumber to obtain a permit for water heater replacement.

6. Can a homeowner obtain a permit?

Yes. However, if a contractor is hired to perform the work, the City will require registration of the contractor and verify proper licensing and insurance.

7. How long is my permit valid?

A permit expires in 180 days if no work has been performed, If work has begun and continues the permit remains valid until complete.

8. My homeowners association (HOA) is telling me that I cannot build my project, is this true?

While your project may be approved by the City, you should always check your deed restrictions and HOA requirements before applying for a permit. The City does not enforce HOA requirements.

9. What building code does the City of Fate use?

2018 International building codes and the 2020 National electric code.

10. How much is a permit?

A permit cost varies depending on type and complexity, please see the link attached. Building Permit Fees

11. Can I get a building permit before the City has accepted my subdivision?

The City of Fate strives to make processes easier, more predictable and fair for all that are in accordance with City ordinances, which in short states, early building permits shall not be released until all required improvements have been installed, inspected, and accepted. Required improvements include but are not limited to: site sanitation; required landscaping installed and grass cover established; as-built PDF plans, AutoCAD, and ESRI shapefiles submitted; field grading verification's performed; and maintenance bonds filed.

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General

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

Please follow the link to access the FAQ page. FAQ

2. How do I contact a City department?

Depending on the nature of your request, you can call, email, or visit our offices. The City's general phone number is (972) 771-4601. In the government menu tab at the top of the screen, you can click on the department's page you are interested in contacting to find specific emails, phone numbers, and locations.

3. What are the City's Hours of Operation?

City Hall is open Monday - Thursday, from 7AM to 6PM, and Friday from 8AM to 12PM.

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Municipal Court

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1. How can I pay for my citation?

View the Payment of Fines Webpage Payment of Fines

2. Can I request a Driving Safety Course to dismiss my citation?

View the Driving Safety Course Webpage for information. Driving Safety Course

3. Can certain violations be dismissed?

View the Compliance Dismissal Webpage Compliance Dismissal

4. Can I request Deferred Disposition?

View the Deferred Disposition Webpage Deferred Disposition

5. Will my citation be reported as a conviction if I just pay it?

Yes, if you do not choose one of the options for dismissal or you are not eligible, the violation(s) will be reported as a conviction on your Texas Department of Public Safety Driving Record.

6. If I have a CDL, do I have any options to keep the citation off of my record?

Municipal Court Judges, by law, are not allowed to approve Deferred Disposition or a Driving Safety Course for a moving violation if you hold a Commercial Driving License.

7. How do I request a Court Date?

You may request a court date in person at the Municipal Court, by mail, or by email at [email protected]

8. Where do I find the amount due on my citation?

You can find your amount due by selecting the link for online payments on the Payment of Fines Webpage. If your citation is unavailable it is not in our system yet and you would need to try again on a later date. Most citations are available within 48-72 hours of the citation issue date. Payment of Fines

9. What options do I have if my citation is in Warrant?

Payment options are on the Payment of Fines Webpage, or you would need to call the court for other options Payment of Fines

10. If I am a Juvenile, what do I need to do?

A Juvenile (person under the age of 17) is required to appear before the Judge accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. You do not have to appear within 20 days, as your court date/time will be mailed to the address on your citation. It is your responsibility to notify the court if it is incorrect.

If you fail to appear at your court date, your Driver's license may be denied or suspended until you make an appearance.

11. Can I pay my Warrant online?

Yes, but it will be a conviction on your record. Call the court at 972-771-4601 ext. 127 for other possible options.

12. What if I am unable to pay my citation in full within 20 days?

You may request a 30 day Extension to pay online or in person. You may also request a payment plan. Call the court for instructions at 972-771-4601 ext. 127. online

13. What is the proper attire for Court or Jury Duty?

Business casual is the acceptable attire. Jeans are acceptable, hats are not. Please check the Local Rules for details. Defendants who appear in prohibited attire may be sent home to change clothes.

Local Rules

14. If I am a minor with an alcohol violation or under 18 with a tobacco violation, what do I need to do?

You are required by state law to appear before a judge. If you are under 18, you must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. A court date/time will be mailed to you at the address on your citation, therefore you are not required to appear within 20 days. It is your responsibility to notify the court if you have a change of address. You may get additional information by reviewing the Local Rules document.

Local Rules

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Parks & Recreation

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1. Are bounce houses allowed?

a. Yes

i. Users are responsible for providing a generator to inflate the bounce house. The City Does Not provide electricity.

ii. Adult supervision must be provided at all times to ensure safe levels of operation.

iii. Bounce houses may not be set up in wet conditions

iv. Motor Vehicles/trailers are not allowed on park lands, on turf, or on walkways

2. Are water slides allowed?

a. No slides or inflatable that use water are allowed

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Planning & Development

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1. General Info - How do I get feedback from the City regarding an idea I have for developing a property?

The best way is to schedule a meeting with the Development Review Committee (DRC). Each project is granted one free DRC meeting, thereafter a fee of $300 will apply. For you to get the most out of meeting with the DRC please come prepared with conceptual drawings (i.e. site plan, landscape plan, building elevation plan, open space/pedestrian plan, etc.).

2. General Info - How do I get feedback from the City regarding an idea I have for opening a business in an existing building?

Complete the Certificate of Occupancy Application and submit it to the Building Inspection Department along with the non-refundable $35 processing fee. The application may be submitted in-person, via postage mail, or sent through email to [email protected] The processing fee must be submitted in-person or via postage mail. Certificate of Occupancy applications will NOT be processed until the application and processing fee have been received. If the application is approved, an additional $165 is required

CO Application.

3. General Info - When and where are Planning & Zoning Commission and City Council meetings held?

All meetings are held in the Fate City Hall located at 1900 C.D. Boren Pkwy, which is at the southwest corner of the HWY 66 and C.D. Boren Pkwy intersection. Planning & Zoning Commission meetings ordinarily occur the third Thursday of every month at 6 p.m. City Council meetings ordinarily occur the first and third Monday of every month at 6 p.m.

4. Property Info - Where can I find information about who owns a property, its size, & its taxing entities?

You can use the interactive map found on the Rockwall County Central Appraisal District website. Simply zoom in to a location and click on the property you're interested in. 

Interactive Map.

5. Property Info - How do I determine if my property is in the floodplain?

The City of Fate's interactive mapping application provides a general location of floodplains within the city. You can also use the interactive map found on FEMAs website. Simply zoom in to a location or type 'Fate, TX' in the search bar.

Interactive Map.

6. Meeting Request - What is the DRC?

DRC stands for Development Review Committee. It's comprised of City staff members from the Building Inspections, Public Works, Engineering, Public Safety, and Planning Departments. The DRC is responsible for reviewing all zoning, platting, and civil plan applications.

7. Meeting Request - How often does the DRC meet?

The DRC meets every first and third Wednesday of each month from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm. DRC meetings are by appointment only. Appointments are scheduled in one-hour increments and are available ONLY at 8:30, 9:30, 10:30, and 11:30.

8. Meeting Request - How do I request a meeting with the DRC?

DRC meetings are by appointment only and must be requested at least 48 hours prior to the start of a regularly scheduled DRC meeting (i.e. requested by the first or third Monday of each month ). To schedule, complete the application and email it to [email protected]

Request a DRC Meeting Application.

9. Application Submittal - What do I need to submit with my zoning, platting, or civil plan application?

Each application type has certain unique submittal requirements. To find out exactly what needs to be submitted you can review the submittal checklist for your specific application type on the Applications & Fee Information webpage.

Application Submittal Requirements.

10. Application Submittal - When can I submit my zoning, platting, or civil plan application?

Depending on the type of application, you may submit them only on either the first or third Tuesday of each month. For a calendar of authorized submittal dates please review the 2022-2023 Application Submittal and Review Schedule.

Application Submittal Schedule.

11. Zoning - How do I determine what a property is zoned?

The City's interactive mapping platform is a convenient way to identify the zoning of your property.

Zoning Map.

12. Zoning - I know what my property is zoned but how do I learn more about what my property can be used for and what the design requirements will be?

All permitted uses and design requirements are detailed online within the Unified Development Ordinance found on the City of Fate Website.

Zoning Districts & Use Regulations.

13. Zoning - How long does it take to zone a property?

The zoning process usually takes between 60 and 90 days. This amount of time is necessary due to state legislation mandating publication of the application in the newspaper and notification of property owners within 200 feet of the subject property.

14. Zoning - What is the process for zoning a property?

The zoning process ordinarily takes between 60 and 90 days. All zoning applications require public hearings by both the Planning & Zoning Commission (P&Z) and City Council. At least 15 days before the P&Z meeting, newspaper publishing is required and at least 10 days before the P&Z meeting, property owners within 200 feet of the subject property must be notified via postage mail. The P&Z makes a recommendation to the City Council; the City Council subsequently acts on the application. The action taken by the City Council is final.

15. Zoning - What is a Special Use Permit (SUP)?

In most zoning districts, there are uses which may or may not be appropriate in a particular location. Typically, they are uses that may have some special impact or uniqueness which requires a careful review of their location, design, configuration, and special impact to determine the desirability of permitting the use on a particular site. Such uses are classified as Special Uses, and before they may be established, both the Planning & Zoning Commission and City Council must hold a public hearing. If approved by the City Council, the use may be established subject to any development standards or conditions imposed at the time of City Council approval.  

Special Use Permit Ordinance (see Section 2.5.4)

16. Zoning - What is the process for getting a Special Use Permit (SUP)?

The process is exactly the same as the zoning process (publication, notification of property owners, public hearings). The application submittal requirements are slightly different than a zoning application, so be sure to read thoroughly through the Special Use Permit submittal checklist to ensure a complete submittal is achieved

Application Submittal Requirements.

17. Platting - My plat is almost ready for filing at the County, what do I need to submit?

For plat filing requirements within Rockwall County, visit the Rockwall County Clerk's website.

For plat filing requirements within Collin County, visit the Collin County Clerk's website.

Application Submittal Requirements.

18. Platting - What are the fees for filing plats at the County?

The Rockwall County recording fee schedule can be found here.

The Collin County recording fee schedule can be found here.

Filing Fees.

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Property Standards

Show All Answers

1. What is a Code Violation?

Please read a complete definition of a code violation on the code violation page.

2. How do I dispose of items like appliances, televisions, furniture, paint, motor oil, or other toxic materials?

For disposal of large or hazardous items please contact Waste Connections at 469-452-8000 or email at their website. Some items may be disposed of free of charge while others may incur a nominal fee.

Progressive Waste website

3. How do I find out who registered a complaint on my property?

Pursuant to the Texas Attorney General’s Office reporting party information is kept strictly confidential and may not be released without a court order.

4. Do I need to give my name and contact information to file a complaint about a code violation?

No, code violations may be submitted anonymously, however, specific violation location details are required. If you elect to provide your information the code compliance officer will contact you if requested to inform you of the actions taken.

5. I made a complaint. How long do I have to wait before something is done?

Complaints are assigned and addressed within 48 hours. Immediate life safety violations are given priority. Depending on the nature of the complaint, the code compliance officer may need to send a letter and schedule an inspection with the property owner. As each case may vary in complexity, so may the time required to bring the violation into compliance. If requested, the code compliance officer will contact you after the initial inspection to inform you of the impending action. Extensions may be granted on a case-by-case basis for extenuating circumstances and special conditions.

6. Is a garage sale sign allowed?

A garage sale sign may be located only on the premises where the garage sale is being conducted and on private property only. Garage sale sign should not be posted more than seventy-two (72) hours prior to the beginning of the sale and should be removed within twenty-four (24) hours following the end of the sale.

7. Is a permit required for banners/temporary signs?

A valid temporary sign permit must be obtained prior to hanging or displaying all banners and temporary signs. Temporary signs must be associated with a special sale, event, grand opening, or business closure. Temporary sign permits are valid for fourteen (14) days and can be issued once every three (3) months. A $35 dollar fee applies. You may obtain a temporary sign permit at 109 E. Fate Main Place or by calling the Building Inspections Department at 972-771-4601, ext. 101.

8. What should I do if the violation is contained solely in the back yard and cannot be seen by the Code Compliance Officer?

The code compliance officer must observe a violation before action can be taken. The compliance officer will need to meet with you at your property to gain access to your property in order to conduct an inspection.

9. I received notification of a violation. How much time do I have?

View violations and their time limits on the violations time limits page.

10. What are the penalties for a violation?

Please review the complete list on the violation penalties page.

11. Will the City abate a violation?

Please find the complete answer on the abatements page.

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Water & Utilities

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1. How do I start new water, sewer and trash service?

To establish new water, sewer and sanitation service: **Please note, request for new service and deposit received after 3:00 pm will result in connection on the following workday. 

Option 1 Please come by the City Hall and bring the following: A valid picture ID (Driver’s License) A copy of your signed lease or Closing Disclosure A deposit payable by cash, check, money order or credit/debit card (Master Card, Discover, or VISA). Out of state checks and Driver’s Licenses are accepted. You will also need to fill out a Residential Water Service Application. 

Option 2 You may download the Residential Water Service Application, fill it out and return it by mail, by fax, or by email: Utility Billing P.O. Box 159 Fate, TX 75132 Fax: 972-722-8266 Please note, you will need to include a copy of your Driver’s License with your mailed, emailed or faxed application. We will need proof of ownership or for customers who are renting or leasing a home, we must receive a copy of your rental/lease agreement, as well. Your deposit must be received by the Utility Billing department before a service will be established. We do not accept deposits online or over the phone.

2. Who do I contact regarding trash service?

This service is provided by Waste Connections and is billed through your water bill at the rate of $17.71 per month for one 96-gallon trash cart and one 96-gallon recycle cart, $10.83 for an extra trash cart and $2.17 for additional recycle cart for residential service. You must use the Waste Connective provided 96-gallon poly-cart. If you do not have a poly-cart at the address you are setting up service for, please let us know and arrangements will be made to have one delivered to you. You are allowed one bulky item per week in addition to your cart(s).  Commercial accounts should contact Waste Connections directly at 903-450-8282. This service is provided to inside city limit residential/commercial accounts only.

3. What are my payment options?

Payments may be made the following ways:
- Online—you will need your account number and last payment made
- In person at the Utility Department at the City Hall located at 1900 C D Boren Pkwy, Fate, TX 75087.
- Dropped in the night drop located in front of the City Hall entrance doors; please-No Cash
- Bank/Credit Card drafts can be setup as recurring payments by completing and submitting the Automatic Debit Authorization Form.
- Debit/credit card payments can be made in person
- Check, money order or cashier's check payments may be mailed to P.O. Box 159, Fate, TX 75132.

4. How is my sewer fee calculated?

Sewer rates are based upon "winter averaging" which means water usage in the months of December, January and February will determine your sewer rate. Rates are adjusted annually. New accounts will be charged the city wide average until the next winter averaging cycle.

5. When are water bills due?

Water bills are mailed anytime by the 20th of the month. Payments are due by the 15th day of the month.

6. Why do I have a penalty fee?

The due date is the 15th day of the month. If payment is not received by the due date shown on the bill, a penalty fee of 10% of balance owed will be automatically assessed on the 16th day of the month.

7. When is the disconnection date?

Disconnect date is the 25th of each month. If service is disconnected the customer is assessed a $50 Service Charge. If a deposit is not on file a deposit will be assessed to the account.

8. Where do we pay our property/school taxes?

Please pay those taxes to the Rockwall County Tax Assessor/Collector, phone number 972-204-6130.

9. What causes taste and odor change in the water?

A natural occurrence in all surface water supplies called an "algal bloom", is responsible for the taste and odor changes in the water supply. Algal blooms usually occur in late July and into August each year.

*Note. Algal blooms can occur during winter months also.

10. Is the water safe to drink?

Yes. The taste and odor is a palatability issue. There are no health hazards created regardless of the taste and odor caused by the algal bloom.

11. If I have a water/sewer problem after business hours, or to report a water main break or sewer issue, who do I contact?

Please call 972-824-4403. Public Works has maintenance technicians on call 24 hours a day.

12. How do I find out if a certain piece of property has water and sewer services?

Please call 972-771-4601.