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Building Department

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1. Where is the Building Department located and what are the hours of business?

The main office is located at:
430 W. Chestnut St.
Denison, TX 75020

The Building Department is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

2. What building, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical codes has the City of Denison adopted?

The following codes were adopted by the City of Denison:

• 2002 National Electric Code


• 2003 Energy Conservation Code


• 2003 International Existing Building Code


• 2003 International Fire Code


• 2003 International Fuel Gas Code


• 2003 International Mechanical Code


• 2003 International Plumbing Code


• 2003 International Residential Code

3. When is a building permit required?

Please view the permit information webpage for details.

4. If I am a homeowner, may I do my own work?

Yes, but you still need a permit. Homeowners may obtain permits only when the property is owner occupied and is registered as a homestead property.

5. What is needed if Atmos gas company requires a city inspection to get your gas turned on?

You will need to get a plumber to put a pressure gauge on your gas line. Any appliance tied to the gas line will need to be brought up to code. The plumber will need to get a permit and call for the inspection. If the inspection passes, then we send a release to Atmos. You will need to contact Atmos Gas Company for service by calling 1 (800) 286-6700.

6. What is needed if the electrical company requires a city inspection to turn electrical service on?

Contact the City of Denison Inspection Department by calling (903) 464-4456 for an electrical courtesy inspection. If it is for a commercial building, an appointment will be necessary to check the electrical on the inside of the building. You will need to call your electric company to make an application, so they can tie the application and release together.

7. Is a permit required for a roof?

Yes, a permit is required for roll roofing, composition shingles, metal roofing, and hot tar roofing. If you have questions about hot tar roofing, please contact Fire Marshal John Weda at (903) 464-4427. All others questions should be directed to the Building / Inspections Department at (903) 464-4456.

8. What is considered the historical district?

This is a section of the City of Denison from the 700 Block of West Main to the 300 Block of East Main and from Gandy Street to Crawford Street. Any type of exterior work, including painting, is required to go before the Historical Preservation Board and also required to have a permit. If you have questions, please check with the city’s Inspection Department at (903) 464-4456 or Faye Brockett at (903) 464-4466.

9. Are there special requirements for the Highway 75 area?

Yes. This is considered the corridor development area. Any new construction, exterior remodel, on and off-premise signs, lighting canopies, awnings, landscaping, etc. in this area needs to go through the Planning and Zoning Department by calling (903) 464-4466.

Information can also be found in the Zoning Ordinance: Article V – Special Area Standards.

10. What is required to obtain a permit?

The following are needed to obtain a permit:

• Cost of project


• List of materials or how project is constructed


• Owner and contractor's name and phone number


• Site plan, drawing, or floor plan

11. How many sets of plans are required for an application of a permit?

Normally three sets for commercial and two sets for new residential. Floor plans are required for all remodel and additions.

12. What is the cost of a permit?

Permits will vary in cost according to type of application. Please refer to the fee schedule for further information.

13. What forms of payment are accepted?

The City of Denison accepts cash, checks, and Visa or MasterCard.

14. How long is a permit good for?

Permits are good for one year (six months to get started on the project and six months to be finished with the project).

15. Where do I post my permit?

Post the permit card on the job site in a visible place at the front door or window.

16. How do I get my project inspected?

We have same-day inspections if reasonable notice is given. On all projects, final inspections are required. For questions or inspections, call the Inspection Department at (903) 464-4456.

17. How long does the permit review process take on residential projects?

New single-family, duplex, or single-family additions usually require not more than three business days for review, depending on the workload.

18. How long does the permit review process take on commercial projects?

New commercial projects, multi-family, parking lots, additions to existing structures, finish-outs generating a certificate of occupancy (CO), and interior finish-outs for an existing tenant usually require no more than five business days for initial review and two days to review any revisions. CO applications usually require one business day for review. Plan review times may take longer for more complex projects or during periods of high workload.

19. Is a permit needed for signs?

Yes, a permit is required on all signs. Refer to the Code of Ordinances for more information. If you have any questions, call the Inspection Department at (903) 464-4456.

20. Are licenses or certificates required to operate a restaurant?

Yes. Requirements for restaurants and temporary vendors can be obtained from the Grayson County Health Department and Environmental Health Division by calling (903) 465-2878 ext. 241. Contact Fire Marshal John Weda by calling (903) 464-4427 for Fire Department requirements. A Certificate of Occupancy is required from the Inspection Department by calling (903) 464-4456.

21. Is a fire protection permit required?

Yes, a permit is required. Please contact the fire marshal at (903) 464-4427 for information or questions regarding a fire protection permit.

22. Why is a certificate of occupancy needed?

The Inspection Department uses the certificate of occupancy (CO) for information to help identify potential hazards that may be encountered while responding to emergency calls by the Fire Department. The CO verifies that the structure conforms to the most current life and safety standards.

23. Is a permit required to occupy or use a building?

Yes. A certificate of occupancy permit is required and must be applied for through the Inspection Department. If you have questions, call (903) 464-4456.

24. Can a portion of a building or structure be occupied prior to the completion of the entire building or structure?

A temporary certificate of occupancy can be issued by the Inspection Department under certain conditions. For more information or if you have questions, please call (903) 464-4456.

25. What should be done with a certificate of occupancy once it is received?

The certificate of occupancy is required to be posted in a conspicuous location on the premises and shall not be removed except by the building official.

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Citizen Complaint Process

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1. How are complaints made?

Please view the citizen complaint process webpage.

2. What happens if I make a false complaint?

Sometimes people make false complaints against Police Department employees. Citizens should be aware that this is a violation of the Texas Penal Code. Section 37.02 provides punishment for an individual adjudged guilty of committing an offense if with intent to deceive and with knowledge of the statement’s meaning: “He makes a false statement under oath or swears to the truth of a false statement previously made; and, the statement is required or authorized by law to be made under oath.”

A person convicted under this section can be punished by a fine up to $4,000, confinement in jail up to one year, or by both fine and imprisonment.

3. What happens if the complaint is not true?

Police Department members must be accorded certain rights, the same as with all citizens, and complaints must be supported by sufficient evidence. If there is not sufficient evidence to sustain the complaint, the member is notified and continues on duty. The complainant is also notified of the investigation’s results.

4. What happens when a complaint is found to be true?

When the investigation of a complaint reveals that the charges are true and should be sustained against the member, the chief of police notifies the member and will take the appropriate action depending on the nature of the violation.

5. Can a police officer appeal a decision?

Just as a citizen charged with a criminal offense can appeal a court’s decision, a Police Department member can appeal the action taken against them. The City of Denison has established procedures for members to follow in their appeals, just as the Denison Police Department has established procedures for insuring that complaints by citizens against members are thoroughly and honestly investigated.

6. What if I'm not satisfied with the decision?

If you are not satisfied with the results of the investigation, you may appeal to Chief of Police Jay Burch by calling (903) 465-2422 or visiting:
108 W. Main St.
Denison, TX 75020

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City Attorney

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1. Is the City Attorney’s Office able to help me resolve a property dispute with my neighbor?

Not usually. The city attorney represents only the city and its City Council and staff members. Unless city property interests are integral to the neighborhood dispute, private legal counsel should be consulted.

2. Is the City Attorney’s Office able to resolve customer dissatisfaction or consumer protection complaints?

No. The city attorney has no authority or jurisdiction over such matters. The Office of the Attorney General of Texas has a Consumer Protection Division that you may file a complaint with.

3. I cannot afford an attorney, but i need help with a legal matter. Can I get assistance from the city attorney?

The city attorney represents only the City Council and staff of the City of Denison and therefore, the city attorney is not available to represent private persons or entities.

Legal Services of North Texas provides legal services and representation to individuals on a need basis, dependent upon certain criteria based in part upon the client’s personal income. Legal Services of North Texas may be contacted by calling (903) 868-4800.

4. How do I file a claim against the City of Denison?

If you believe you have a claim against the city, the City Charter requires that you provide written notice to the city within 30 days of the event giving rise to the claim by identifying the nature and extent of the claim and stating the dollar amount claimed. Complete the Claim Form and turn it into the City Attorney’s Office located at:
500 W. Chestnut St.
Denison, TX 75020

5. How do I obtain a copy of a public document?

Please refer to the open records webpage .

6. Is it appropriate for me to contact the city attorney if i have a case pending in Municipal Court?

Yes. Since the city attorney is the prosecutor in the Denison Municipal Court, complainants, witnesses, and defendants may contact the City Attorney’s Office on matters pending with the Municipal Court. However, defendants that are represented by legal counsel should make the contact through his/her attorney, since it is inappropriate and unethical for the city attorney to communicate directly with the defendant if he/she is represented by counsel.

It is inappropriate to contact the judge of the Municipal Court outside of the Municipal Court’s regular business hours. If you have any question about the pending trial, the availability of witnesses, or any matter pertinent in your case, you may contact the City Attorney’s Office by calling (903) 464-4442.

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City Clerk's Office

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1. Where do I get a copy of an ordinance?

View the Denison Code of Ordinances.

2. How do I file a claim with the city for city-related damages?

If you believe you have a claim against the city, the City Charter requires that you provide written notice to the city within 30 days of the event and giving rise to the claim by identifying the nature and extent of the claim and stating the dollar amount claimed.

View the charter provision covering claims against the city and complete the claim form. When finished, turn the form in to the City Attorney’s Office.

3. May I be reimbursed directly for a claim?

Claims are filed with our insurance carrier and a determination is made from that office as to the city’s responsibility in your claim. You will be contacted directly by one of their representatives. This process may take up to three weeks.

4. How do I request a public record?

Please view the open records webpage for details.

5. Where do I go to vote?

The city is responsible for the City of Denison elections. You will be guided to this information through your voter registration card mailed to you from the county. The last square will indicate your single member district.

A phone call to the City Clerk's Office at (903) 464-4441 can also guide you to your polling place. This information will also be published in the Herald Democrat preceding each election. All early voting will precede election day voting for two weeks preceding election day, and will be held on the first floor of City Hall located at:
500 W. Chestnut St.
Denison, TX 75020

6. Where can I get birth and death certificates?

City Hall no longer maintains birth and death records. You may contact the Grayson County Clerk to obtain a copy of your birth or death certificate.

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City Manager's Office

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1. Where is City Hall?

The offices of the city manager, city attorney, finance, city clerk, planning and zoning, public works, and records are located at:
500 W. Chestnut St.
Denison, TX 75020

View a map for directions.

The offices of human resource, code enforcement and building, along with the Water Department are located in the City Hall Annex at:
430 W. Chestnut St.
Denison, TX 75020

View a map for directions.

2. How do I contact the city manager?

You can reach the City Manager’s Office by:

• Calling (903) 464-4440


• Completing the Contact the City Manager Form


• Emailing the city manager


• Mailing the city manager at:
  P.O. Box 347
  Denison, TX 75021

3. Who is the city manager?

Robert Hanna is the city manager. His service to the city began March 7, 2011. He is responsible for the administration of all city affairs placed in his charge by the City Charter and reports to the City Council.

4. If I have a problem, how do i know who to contact?

When you call the city’s main number (903) 465-2720 the receptionist should be able to help you and forward your call to the appropriate department.

5. When was Denison established?

Denison was established on September 23, 1872 and incorporated on March 7, 1873.

6. How did Denison get its name?

Denison is a railroad town and was named after the Katy Railroad’s Vice President George Denison, who ironically never came to Texas.

7. In what county is Denison located and what is the population?

Denison is located in Grayson County, Texas, and the city's population is 22,773.

8. What is the city’s tax rate?

The city's tax rate is $.65377 / $100 valuation.

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Code Enforcement

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1. May I report my neighbor for a violation and remain anonymous?

Yes, you may withhold your name.

2. How many animals may a person have in their yard?

The City of Denison, Texas, has no ordinance stating how many animals a person may have.

3. May homeowners park a vehicle in their front yard?

No. The following are ordinance guidelines to follow and be aware of:

• If a vehicle is parked in the front or side yard, it must be parked on an all-weather surface.


• Any vehicle that is inoperable, has an expired inspection or expired registration, or that is dismantled or wrecked is not allowed in the backyard.


• If a homeowner has access to enter the backyard for parking, an all-weather surface is not required.


• All trailers must be parked in the rear portion of a property


• All recreational vehicles must be parked in the rear of the property. If access is not feasible, an all weather surface is required.


• No vehicle can be left unmoved on a public street more than 48 hours or more than 30 days on private property.

4. May a person have chickens in the city limits?

Yes, the number of chickens allowed depends on the size of the lot. Chickens must be kept in a manner that prevents them from leaving the property.

5. Are garage sales allowed?

Garage sales are allowed once a month for a maximum of four days in the city limits. No signs are allowed in the public right of way such as the median, utility poles, or street corners and intersections. Citations will be issued for the placement of signs in a public right of way or if a sign is located on any other property other than where the sale occurs.

6. Is there an ordinance against an overgrown yard?

If a property owner’s grass obtains a height of over 12 inches, the property owner and/or occupant will be notified by mail to correct the violation. If no corrective action is taken the owners and/or occupants will be issued a citation by the city for the mowing of the property (two notices per year). A lien will be placed on the property for the cost of the mowing plus administrative fees.

7. Does the city have a brush and limb disposal program?

Brush may be taken to the disposal site at Munson Park. The City of Denison collects brush and limbs at the street four times each year. The four months of collection are March, May, September and November. The City is divided into 20 separate routes in order to cover the entire city within the one month period. For more information, view the brush and limb collection webpage.

8. Is there an ordinance against right of way obstructions?

A property owner and/or occupant is responsible for keeping alleyways, streets, and sidewalks clear of obstructions such as trees, shrubbery, vines, other growth, or trash containers that might visually impair or physically obstruct a pedestrian or vehicle from traveling on the roadway, alleyway, or sidewalk. Nothing can be placed in the right of way that is over 18 inches.

9. What is the definition of a junk vehicle?

Any vehicle that is inoperable, has an expired inspection, has an expired registration, or is dismantled or wrecked is considered a junk vehicle. The term vehicle or motor vehicle includes part or parts of a vehicle or motor vehicle.

10. Does the city have an ordinance for animals or livestock?

Two pygmy goats and one pot bellied pig are allowed in residential areas, but must live in the house. All other livestock require a half-acre per animal.

11. What are the city's rules for trash collection?

Household garbage shall not be placed at the curb before 6:00 am of a scheduled pick up day. Large items such as furniture, mattresses, etc will be picked up at the curb for a fee. Please call the Public Works Department at (903) 464-4451 to make arrangements.

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Community Development

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1. How do I apply for housing assistance?

The process starts with the client completing an application and being placed on a waiting list. Applications can be mailed to the client by calling (903) 465-2720 or picked up at City Hall located at:
500 W. Chestnut St.
Denison, TX 75020

2. How do I know if I qualify for housing assistance?

Clients qualify if they own the house and fall within household income guidelines established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Copies of federal income tax returns establish the household size. Records at the Grayson County Appraisal District establish home ownership.

3. What type of work is done in the Minor / Emergency Rehabilitation Program?

The Minor / Emergency Rehabilitation Program addresses five areas of work. Those areas are:

• Electrical


• Heating


• Level / support


• Plumbing


• Roofing

The maximum amount that can be spent on a project is $3,500. There are limited areas that can be addressed under emergency rehabilitation such as gas leaks, broken water pipes, some sewer problems, and heating issues. The maximum amount that can be spent on emergency projects is $1,000.

4. How long does it take to get work done in the Minor / Emergency Rehabilitation Program?

In early 2003, the typical waiting period to receive minor rehabilitation assistance was about one and half to two years. This time will increase as more names are added to the waiting list.

5. Who do I contact if a see a dilapidated house that needs to be torn down?

The demolition process starts with a call to the building official at (903) 464-4456. The building official will then determine that the structure is dilapidated and posts the house unsafe.

The location of the house determines what funds will be used to demolish the structure. The length of time from posting to demolition varies greatly due to a number of circumstances. The most time consuming task is to contact all of the people who might have an ownership in the property and have them sign a release to demolish the house. This task alone can take up to six months or more.

6. How do I apply for the first-time homebuyer’s grant?

The process begins when you start discussions with your local lending institution. Early in that process, you tell the lending institution that you would like to apply for the city’s grant.

The house must be in the City of Denison, not in a flood prone area, and the buyer must qualify according to income guidelines. All of the paper work is done by the lending institution and submitted to the city for review. After all of the required documentation is in the project file, a check in the amount up to $2,500 is issued to the lending institution and the buyer for closing.

7. Who do I contact if I want to know traffic counts on some of the streets in Denison?

The Office of Community Development maintains maps from the Texas Department of Transportation with counts of traffic for a 24-hour period on some city streets. Requests can be made through the City Manager’s Office for additional counts on streets that have not been counted or to request current raw counts for a specific location.

8. How do I contact the Office of Community Development?

You may contact the Office of Community Development Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm by calling (903) 465-2720 ext. 453. You can visit the office located at:
500 W. Chestnut St.
Denison, TX 75020

You may also contact the office by mail:
P.O. Box 347
Denison, TX 75021

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Denison Girls Softball

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1. What equipment is provided?

Each player will be given a shirt and visor. Parks and Rec also provides bats, helmets, balls and catchers gear. You will need to get a glove, bat (optional) and cleates.

2. What division will my child play in?

League rules state that players will be assigned to a league based upon their age on January the 1st of a given year. Divisions are Lil Rookies (3-4 yr old boys and girls), 6U (5-6), 8U (7-8), 10U (9-10), 12U (11-12), 15U (13-15) and HS Eligible ( players with at least 1 yr of high school eligibility left)

3. Do I have to sell a fundraiser?

All players are responsible for selling a fundraiser with the exception of the lil rookies league. Fundraisers are used to help offset the costs of new equipment and other costs of the program. You do have the option of a $25 buyout rather than selling candy.

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Fire Department

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1. Do I need a permit for outside burning? Who should I contact?

There is no burning allowed within the city limits and no permits are issued for burning. Outdoor cooking is allowed in approved grills. Please contact the Fire Department by calling (903) 464-4427 for additional information or to report illegal burning.

2. How do I get a copy of a fire report and is there a charge?

Reports are available at the Central Fire Station, which is located at:
700 W. Chestnut St.
Denison, TX 75020

You will need to know the date and time of the fire and the correct address where the incident occurred. There is a $5 charge for each record. Cash, checks, and money orders are accepted. For more information about fire reports, please call the Fire Department at (903) 464-4427.

3. How do I get a copy of an ambulance report?

Contact our ambulance billing company by calling (866) 398-8999.

4. I was sent a bill for ambulance service. Who do I call to provide my insurance information or ask questions?

Contact our ambulance billing company by calling (866) 398-8999.

5. Who do I call to sign up for a CPR course?

The American Red Cross or the American Heart Association both offer CPR certification.

6. Who do I call to report a false fire alarm?

Contact the fire dispatcher by calling 9-1-1 or (903) 465-1616.

7. Where may I obtain a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Form?

A DNR Form, also called a Out of Hospital Do Not Resuscitate (OOHDNR) Form can be obtained from the Texas Department of Health.

8. How do I schedule a tour of the fire station or have a firefighter visit my school / civic group?

All Denison fire stations are open to the public. We are most pleased to show you the fire apparatus anytime you visit one of our fire stations. If you would like for a firefighter to talk to your school, church, or business organization or to schedule a tour of the fire station, please call the Fire Department at (903) 464-4427.

9. Who do I contact about the leaking fire hydrant in front of my house?

Please contact the Public Works Department by calling (903) 465-2720.

10. May I purchase trash bags at the Fire Department? What are the hours?

Trash bags are sold 24 hours a day at the Central Fire Station located at:
700 W. Chestnut St.
Denison, TX 75020

11. Do I need to have a smoke detector and what kind should I get?

The Denison Fire Department recommends that there be a UL approved dual sensor photoelectric / ionization smoke detector in and outside of all bedrooms.

12. Do I need a carbon monoxide (CO) detector?

The Denison Fire Department recommends that you have at least one CO detector in every occupancy where wood-burning stoves, fireplaces, or other gas-fueled appliances are in use.

13. Will I be charged if the paramedics treated me but didn't transport me?

Patients who receive care at the scene and are not transported to a hospital are not charged for these services.

14. Are fireworks allowed in Denison city limits?

No. Fireworks are not allowed within the city limits of Denison.

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Human Resources

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1. If I want to apply for more than one position, do I need to fill out an application for each position?

Yes. An application needs to be filled out for each position that you are applying for.

2. May I apply for any position at any time?

No. The City of Denison only accepts applications for positions that are currently open. View current open positions.

3. Do you maintain applications on file?

At the close of the application process or once the position is filled, all applications are returned to the Human Resources Department for retention purposes only. You must reapply for any future vacancies.

4. Is the City of Denison civil service?

Yes. The administration of the Police and Fire departments are governed under the Local Government Code 143.

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Main

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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.

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

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

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Main Street

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1. What permits are required to work on downtown buildings?

Please view the historic preservation and building permits webpage.

2. What do I need to do when starting a business downtown?

Contact the Main Street director by calling (903) 464-4452 and view business start-up information for details.

3. What incentives are available for a building rehabilitation?

A 20% tax credit is available for a building rehabilitation of a certified historic structure. There is also a 10% credit available for rehabilitation of nonhistoric, nonresidential buildings built before 1936. For details, view incentives.

4. What incentives are offered for locating a business downtown?

Various programs are offered through the city, Denison Development Alliance, and the Denison Development Foundation. View the general incentive summary for more information.

5. Which portion of the Zoning Ordinance pertains to downtown?

View Section 28.39: CA - Central Area District and Section 28.49: Use Regulations for more information.

6. Which ordinances pertain to the Historical Preservation District?

Ordinance numbers 4168, 4199, 4205, and 4335. View the Code of Ordinances Chapter 30 for more information.

7. Which ordinance pertains to sign regulations?

Section 28.59 gives definitions and regulations of signs.

8. What does the fire marshal look for when inspecting my building?

A list of things inspected by the fire marshal prior to issuing an occupancy permit are provided in the Fire Inspections - Are You Up To Code brochure.

9. How can I make my building safer and remove hazards?

A list of tips and safety measures from electrical to hazardous material are included in the Fire Department Inspections Program brochure.

10. What is the Four-Point Approach?

View the Main Street Four-Point Approach webpage.

11. How do I get a flag to display in front of my business?

Fill out the flag request form.

12. How can I include my business in the direcctional signage located along Main Street?

Contact the Main Street Director for details on how you can purchase one or more of these affordable signs.

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Municipal Court

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1. How do I file Municipal Court charges?

A report needs to be made with a police officer. Then the officer will tell you when to be in court to file. The defendant needs to check with the clerk at the front desk of the Police Department to make sure the report has been entered in the computer before charges can be filed. The city attorney has to approve the charges and the court clerk will type up the complaint. You will need to sign the complaint and a summons will be issued for the offender.

If the offender pleads guilty, he/she will be assessed a fine and that will be the end of it. If the offender pleads not guilty, a hearing will be set and the defendant will be notified.

2. What time do I need to be in court to file charges?

Be here around 9:45 am to file Municipal Court charges. The city attorney gets in around this time. He has to approve the charges before they are typed up.

3. When is court held?

Municipal Court is held from 8:30 am to 10:00 am on Monday and Thursday.

4. May I get community service?

The City of Denison does not have community service.

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Our Community

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1. What permits or permission do I need to hold an outdoor event with amplified sound or to block a street? ie, wedding, church event, business event, etc...

You must fill out a request for an amplification permit. You may also need a request form for permission to block a street with City barricades. Online & printable permit applications.

2. Where is City Hall?

The offices of the city manager, city attorney, Finance, City Secretary, Planning and Zoning, Public Works, and Records are located at 500 West Chestnut. The offices of Human Resource, Code Enforcement and Building, along with the Water Department are located in the City Hall Annex at 430 West Chestnut.

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Parks & Recreation

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1. What are some other contacts that might be associated with Parks and Recreation?

Please view the associated organizations webpage.

2. What are the fishing events sponsored by Parks and Recreation?

The following fishing events are sponsored by the Parks and Recreation Department:

• Annual Catfish Rodeo


• Annual Family Fellowship Derby


• Annual Howard Caylor Trout Derby


• Annual Tri County Fishing Festival


• Annual Youth Trout Derby


• Hooked on Fishing Derby

All fishing derbies are held at the Waterloo Lake or Waterloo Pond. Casting contest, prizes, and food are available. A maximum of 70 participants are allowed around the pond. No culling for trout is allowed. All state and local fishing laws apply. Come try the department's new tackle loaner program.

3. What are some new events sponsored by Parks and Recreation?

Check out the flyer, describing some of our new and exciting events.

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Planning & Zoning

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1. When does the Planning and Zoning Commission and Zoning Board of Adjustment meet?

The Planning and Zoning Commission and Zoning Board of Adjustment meet the second Tuesday of the month at 10:00 am in the City Council Chambers in City Hall at:
500 W. Chestnut St.
Denison, TX 75020

2. How may I find out who owns a certain piece of property?

Please view the Grayson Appraisal District website. You will need the address or Geographic ID (tax account number) to look up this information.

3. How may I find out the zoning of my property?

Please call (903) 465-2720 and provide a member of the staff with the tax account number, legal description, and address of your property.

4. How long will it take to have my property rezoned?

The zoning process mat take anywhere from six to eight weeks to complete. You will need to attend two public hearings. The first meeting will be with the Planning and Zoning Commission. They are a recommending body to the City Council and forward their recommendations to the City Council. The second meeting will be with the City Council. The City Council has the final ruling for all zone change requests. Work sessions are held prior to the regular City Council meetings. It is recommended that all applicants attend these meetings.

5. What is the fee schedule?

Please view development fees for more information.

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Police

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1. Are the police allowed to open my car if I have locked my keys inside?

If a child is locked inside the vehicle, a patrol supervisor will be dispatched and will attempt to unlock the vehicle with a Slim Jim.

Because of the potential for damage to vehicles, the Police Department does not open locked vehicles under any other circumstances. A locksmith is your best alternative.

2. Is there a waiting period before I can report someone missing?

No. You can make a report whenever you realize someone is missing. Please call (903) 465-2422.

3. When may I get fingerprinted?

If you live or work in the City of Denison, you may get fingerprinted at the Denison Police Department located at:
108 W. Main St.
Denison, TX 75020

Fingerprints are performed on Tuesdays from 9:00 am to 11:00 am and on Wednesdays from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm. The cost is $10 per card and you must supply your own fingerprint card.

4. Someone has abandoned a junk vehicle in my parking lot or on my property. Will the police tow it away for me?

The police may only tow away vehicles abandoned on public property. Call a wrecker service and the vehicle will be towed away at no cost to you. The wrecker service will then contact the Police Department once they have the vehicle to determine ownership.

5. I do not have any transportation and I have to get somewhere. Will the police give me a ride?

Police officers are not allowed to give rides.

6. I need to get a message to someone that does not have a telephone. Will the Police Department go to the person’s home and deliver a message?

The Police Department may only deliver emergency, life or death, messages.

7. I need to get a message to someone that does not have a telephone. Will the Police Department go to the person’s home and deliver a message?

The Police Department may only deliver emergency, life or death, messages.

8. My family and I are going on vacation. Will the police keep watch our home while we are gone?

You may come to the Police Station at 108 West Main Street and complete a Vacation Check Form. The form will then be routed to the patrol officer that patrols your neighborhood. The officer will make a residential check of your home every other day.

9. What can I do about stray dogs, cats, and other animals?

Animal Control is dispatched through the Police Department and is responsible for calls involving animals. The telephone number is (903) 465-2422. All animals that are apprehended are transported to the Morton Street Animal Shelter at:
2500 W. Morton St.
Denison, TX 75020

You may call the animal shelter at (903) 465-4714.

10. Does the city have a Crime Stoppers Program?

The Police Department does have a Crime Stoppers Program. You may call and leave your tip at (903) 463-7773. You may remain anonymous.

11. Is there a teen curfew in Denison?

Persons 16 years old and younger are prohibited from public places without adult supervision between the hours of 11:00 pm to 6:00 am Sunday through Thursdays and between the hours of 12:00 am to 6:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays. Certain exceptions for work and school activities may apply.

12. How may I compliment or complain about police service or an officer?

Compliments or complaints may be reported to the Office of Professional Standards at (903) 464-4484 Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm or to any police supervisor.

13. May I post a garage sale sign on a utility pole?

The City Ordinance of the City of Denison prohibits any type of sign to be posted on a utility pole or street sign. City Ordinance

14. When is Municipal Court held?

Municipal Court is held every Monday and Thursday starting at 9:00 am.

15. How may I get a copy of an accident report?

There is a $10 per copy fee. You can visit Police Reports to obtain a copy.

16. How may I get a copy of a criminal offense report?

Requests for criminal offense reports should be made in writing from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm at the Police Department located at:
108 W. Main St.
Denison, TX 75020

Copies of these reports will be made available according to the guidelines of the State of Texas Public Information Act. There is no charge for reports.

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Public Utilities

Show All Answers

1. What services are on the utility bill and how are they calculated?

The main recurring charges that appear on the utility bill are water, sewer, and refuse. For more information, please view utility rates.

2. Where is the Water Utilities Service Department located?

The Water Utilities Service Department is located at:
430 W. Chestnut St.
Denison, TX 75020

3. Where can I mail my payment?

Payments can be mailed to:
P.O. Box 347
Denison, Texas 75021

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Public Works

Show All Answers

1. What services are on the utility bill and how are they calculated?

The main recurring charges that appear on the utility bill are water, sewer, and refuse. For more information, please view utility rates.

2. Where is the Water Utilities Service Department located?

The Water Utilities Service Department is located at:
430 W. Chestnut St.
Denison, TX 75020

3. Where can I mail my payment?

Payments can be mailed to:
P.O. Box 347
Denison, Texas 75021

4. What are your operating hours / days?

The water office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm except for designated holidays.

5. Do you have a drive-through window or drop box?

Yes. We have both. The drive-through window is open during normal business hours and is located at:
430 W. Chestnut St.
Denison, TX 75020

There are two drop boxes. One is located at the drive-through on the east side of the building. The other drop box is located at the entrance to the east parking lot off of Chestnut Street. Attach your stub to your payment for posting purposes. Payment should be in the form of check or money order. Please do not place cash in the drop box.

6. Do you accept credit cards?

Yes, we accept major credit cards for payment on water bills.

7. Do you offer payment by bank draft?

Yes. You must come in to the water office and bring a voided check to apply for this service.

8. How do I get service turned on and put in my name?

Customers must come into the office in person and fill out an application. Please bring a picture ID, a signed lease agreement or proof of ownership, and money for deposit and related fees. View service fees for additional information.

9. What is refuse?

The refuse on your bill (RF) is another term for trash collection.

10. Why do I have to be at home when my water is turned on?

You must be home when we turn the water on to make sure that there is not a faucet running in the house, which may lead to flooding, there are not any leaks in the house, and the water pressure is in good working order.

11. How and when is my sewer figured on my bill?

Sewer on residential customer accounts is figured each April as an average and is based on consumption during the months of January, February, and March of that year. The customer is then charged this rate for the next 12 months until the following April.

Sewer on commercial customer accounts is based on water usage each month.

12. Where is City Hall located?

City Hall is located at:
500 W. Chestnut St.
Denison, TX 75020

View a map for directions.

13. Where can I get a building permit?

You can get a building permit in the City Annex Building, across the street from City Hall, located at:
430 W. Chestnut St.
Denison, TX 75020

14. Why are there special refuse (sr) charges on my bill?

Please contact the Public Works Department at (903) 464-4451.

15. Where can I get birth and death certificates?

City Hall no longer maintains birth and death records. You may contact the Grayson County Clerk to obtain a copy of your birth or death certificate.

16. How do I go about getting a dumpster?

To order a dumpster, please contact the Public Works Department at (903) 464-4451.

17. Where can I pay my other utility bills?

View utility companies in the resource directory.

18. If you don’t service my water, who does?

Contact one of the following:

• Northern Hills - (903) 465-3980


• Oakridge Southgale - (903) 465-6403


• Star Water - (903) 465-9135


• Thompson Heights - (903) 465-8785