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City Tree Planting Project

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1. Who handles the tree planting?

The majority of street tree plantings will be completed by staff in our General Services Department’s Urban Forestry Division. A few volunteer tree planting events conducted by our non-profit partner, Keep Durham Beautiful, will also contribute to the planting of street trees.

2. What is the tree planting process like and how long does it take?

Approximately two weeks before a tree planting occurs, our urban forestry crews will leave informational door hangers on nearby residences to inform them of the tree installations. Additionally, there will be flag and paint markings indicating the approximate locations of the new street trees in the rights-of-way.  All planting locations will be inspected for underground utilities prior to planting to ensure that utilities will not be impacted during digging. Most tree planting projects take a few hours to a few days to complete, with minimal impacts to the street during installation. Since these newly planted trees are on City property, it is entirely the City’s responsibility to plant, prune, stake, and maintain the trees. However, it would be helpful if our residents could water the trees nearest to their properties during the hot summer months, although there is no resident obligation to water our street trees. Please note, the tree planting season begins in November and ends in March of the following calendar year.

3. What types of planting material are being used for this project?

We chose a large variety of species every year depending on what is available at select nurseries. Traditionally, our staff selects a variety of Oak, Elm, Maple, Redbud, and other species. Our trees come in a variety of sizes and types, such as ball and burlap, bare root, and containerized material. Our goal is to never plant more than ten percent of one species in a given year, to ensure a diverse and resilient urban forest.

4. What neighborhoods will get trees during the November 2022 - March 2023 planting season?

Neighborhoods selected to receive trees this year are the Downtown (including Old Five Points) as well as the Southside/Collegeview (including Hayti, NCCU, Hillside Park) neighborhoods.

5. What are the City rights-of-way?

The rights-of-way (also referred to as “ROW”) are the areas of land intended to remain open for public or railroad use, upon which railroads and governments (state and local) maintain and exert control. The main use of the right-of-way is for transportation, but room for other government infrastructure exists there: hydrants, streetlights, signs, wires, pipes, sidewalks, etc. We distinguish between “City” and other rights-of-way because we don’t plant trees on state or private railway areas unless agreements are in place. 

Right-of-way widths vary drastically. In older residential areas it is typically 40 to 50’ wide reflecting narrow streets, minimal setbacks, lower traffic speeds and volumes, but it can be much wider in more recently developed areas outside of the dense urban core. In virtually all cases the pavement does not take up the full width. The area “left-over” is where we plant trees.

A typical example is where a 30’ wide street sits upon a 50’ wide right-of-way. In this case, there is typically 10’ left over on either side for amenities such as sidewalks and “tree lawns”. In the same scenario without sidewalks, that 10’ of “left-over” area is indistinguishable from a private lawn, except maybe for some buried utilities indicated by objects such as water meters, gas valves, or fire hydrants.  

In some cases, the rights-of way may only extend a few feet behind the curb on either side of the roadway, while on some blocks it can be 20+ feet where some future need was anticipated (like a road widening or sewer-line expansion). A good way to determine the city rights-of-way near your home is to identify utilities. For instance, if you see a water meter or utility pole then you are looking at City rights-of-way. This roadside area is where we plant street trees because they provide shade to the sidewalks/roadways and insure that the city will maintain them into the future.  

6. How do I request new trees in my neighborhood?

If there is planting space along the City rights-of-way in your neighborhood, then you may be eligible for a new street tree. We have a tree request program where residents can request a street tree be planted in front of their home. Use our “Tree Request Form” if you would like to request a street tree.  

7. How can I get involved?

The City’s non-profit partner, Keep Durham Beautiful, currently raises funds and coordinates volunteer opportunities to support our tree planting efforts. If you would like to contribute to our goal of maintaining and expanding the urban tree canopy, visit https://keepdurhambeautiful.org/ to make a donation or volunteer. 

Another way to support our efforts is to make a donation through your water bill to our Water Into Trees Program. Your donation through this optional program will be used exclusively by our Urban Forestry Division to purchase additional trees for City streets, parks, and green spaces. For more information and to make a donation, visit https://durhamnc.gov/800/Water-Into-Trees.

8. What if I have another question that is not answered here?

We are working hard to increase our urban forest and bring the many environmental and economic benefits of street trees in our City rights-of-way to our low tree canopy neighborhoods. If you have any questions or concerns about this eight-year project, please contact Urban Forestry Supervisor Dan Hickey at [email protected] or (919) 560-4197 ext. 35219.

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ABC Permits

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1. Who do I contact to apply for an ABC permit?

Officer Wilkinson, Durham Police Department, 919-560-4322, ext 29173 or [email protected]

2. How do I get an application to apply for an ABC permit?

One can be obtained from the North Carolina Alcohol & Beverage Commission website; http://abc.nc.gov/Permit/Apply

3. What forms do you need to process my application?

The forms needed are the Local Government Opinion Form 001, and the Inspection/Zoning Compliance - Form 002. These forms are available on the website listed above.

4. How long does it take to get my permit?

Once the application is turned in, it usually takes between 3 and 4 weeks.

5. How do I get the Fire and Zoning Departments to sign off on my paperwork?

Officer Wilkinson will take care of that for you. All you need to do is turn in your application.

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American Tobacco District Waterline Replacement

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1. Why is this work needed?

The project will replace waterlines in the project area that were installed in the 1930’s and have reached the end of their useable life. The project area does not include areas that were previously rehabilitated or replaced.

2. What is geotechnical boring and Level A SUE?

Subcontractors for the City of Durham will be performing subsurface investigations throughout the project area to locate existing buried utilities and determine soil properties. This information will be used to avoid conflicts with existing utilities during the design and construction phases, in addition to allowing the contractor to prepare for anticipated soil conditions during construction. Lane closures lasting several hours will be used at each of the subsurface investigation locations throughout the project area. Small amounts of soil will be removed via an auger or vacuum to complete the investigation, followed by repairing the excavation.

3. What impacts can be expected during the Study/Design phase of the project?

• Field survey of the existing utilities in the project area.
  
• Non-toxic temporary paint will be used to mark the location of buried utilities in the project area. The temporary paint will wash away in several weeks depending on rain, traffic, etc.
• Localized borings will be required to obtain information about existing utility locations and geotechnical conditions.
  
• Sound levels associated with localized borings are anticipated to be between 70 and 90 decibels.
  
• Pedestrian and traffic impacts within the project limits are expected to be limited.
  
• Small pavement cuts may be required and will be temporarily patched.
  
• Work of this nature will be conducted within daytime hours. If “off hours” work is required advance notice shall be provided.
  

4. What impacts can be expected during the Construction phase of the project?

• Construction will not occur on private properties. All property owners will be provided notice in advance of construction near their property.
  
• There will be pedestrian, traffic, and noise impacts during construction.
  
• The City’s contractor will be required to maintain access to residences and businesses at all times.
  
• Sound levels near active construction areas are anticipated to be between 70 and 90 decibels, with some work in high traffic areas occurring during overnight hours.
  
• Appropriate communication and signage will direct property owners, residents, and visitors to the American Tobacco District area with regards to any impacts throughout construction.
  
• At the completion of the project, disturbed areas along roadways and sidewalks will be repaved, and lawns will be graded and reseeded.
  

5. Will my water service be affected by the project?

During the construction phase, existing water meters in the project area will be reconnected to the newly installed waterlines. It is possible that you will be without water for a short duration (typically a few hours) while this transition takes place. Any service interruptions will be communicated with property owners in advance.

6. How do I get more information?

The City will provide status updates via the City website on its page for current projects. You may also contact the project contacts listed above. Public Meetings will be scheduled to discuss the project in more detail, address transportation or other impacts, and answer any other questions regarding the project.

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Becoming an Eligible Training Provider

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1. What type of information does the Durham Career Center examine when approving potential service providers?

Please provide answers for the following questions: Are instructors already in place? Is the curriculum registered? If training is conducted at a school, does it have accreditation? Is the facility ADA accessible and located in Durham? Is there a local need for this type of training? Is the program industry recognized?

2. What if my training is more than $4,500 per person or longer than 1 year?

Depending on program cost, individuals participating in your program will be funded through the Workforce Investment Act (WIA).

3. Why do training providers get a maximum of 5 referrals?

This rule only applies to programs that have been eligible within our system less than 1 year. It is important for us to verify the success of training programs prior to referring too many individuals.

4. What is the process for individuals to utilize the training programs?

It takes approximately 3-4 weeks for an individual to receive a list of potential training providers from their statement of initial interest. During this 3-4 weeks, the individual will establish goals with a counselor and pass and assessment test. Orientations to available programs at the center will occur after which they receive training provider options.

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City Proclamation

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1. What is a proclamation?

A proclamation is an official document issued by the Mayor to commemorate a specific time period (ex. day, week, or month). It brings recognition or awareness to an issue, cause, milestone, or noteworthy event that is relevant and important to Durham. Proclamations are strictly honorary and not legally binding.

2. What are the guidelines to request a proclamation?

• Requests should be received two weeks before the requested date and may be rejected if they are not received sooner.
• Proclamations must hold citywide importance or serve an educational purpose for a significant number of Durham residents.
• Proclamations will not be repeated within a calendar year. Requests that are considered redundant will be declined, and a copy of the original proclamation may be provided instead.
• Proclamations may not be issued for individuals, birthdays, retirements, weddings, anniversaries, church events, conferences, meetings, or businesses – you may request a letter for these occasions. 
• Proclamations may not be used for advertisement or commercial promotion.
• Issuance of a proclamation does not indicate or imply a policy endorsement from the Mayor.
• Any draft language provided may be edited or rewritten at the judgment of the Mayor’s Office. Draft language submitted should be factually accurate and include up-to-date information.
• Requests for proclamations are not renewed annually and must be submitted each year. Proclamations are issued only upon request, so if a proclamation is important to you or your organization, please request it. 

3. Who can make a proclamation request?

Anyone may make a proclamation request, however, proclamations must have a direct relationship to Durham City/County residents, events, achievements, services or noteworthy causes. The decision to issue a proclamation is done completely at the discretion of the Mayor, and he or she reserves the right to deny requests for proclamations at any time.

4. How should a proclamation request be made?

Complete the Proclamation Request Form. Please include a working telephone number where you can be reached for possible questions or details regarding the information you have provided.

Requests can also be mailed or hand-delivered to:

Administrative Specialist, 101 City Hall Plaza, Suite 2400, Durham, NC 27701

 NOTE: Because of the large volume of requests, we cannot honor phone requests.

To follow up on a proclamation request, you can reach us at 919-560-4333.

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Community Safety Crisis Response Pilots

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1. Why is the City starting with “pilots”?

Other U.S. cities are building confidence in the new types of first responses that Durham plans to pilot, by sending unarmed responders to 9-1-1 calls and showing this can be done in a way that meets the needs of those in crisis and is consistent with the safety of all involved, including the responders. You can find successful alternative response programs operating in cities across the U.S. that are similar to each DCSD pilot. 

So, why pilot? 

The most important reason to start small is so that we can learn how to do this well here in Durham. While others are seeing success with these new approaches to crisis response, there is still a lot to learn and figure out. For example, cities have different eligibility criteria and different staffing models. By calling these pilots, we mean that we do not believe we have everything figured out at the outset. By starting small and paying close attention to the data, we can learn what approaches work best before scaling them citywide and 24/7. In this way, we intend to refine and make changes to these models to best meet the needs of Durham residents. 

2. What is Crisis Call Diversion (CCD)?

CCD embeds clinicians in Durham’s 9-1-1 call center so we can quickly connect you to a mental health professional when you or a loved one is experiencing a behavioral health crisis.

When we launch, DCSD will have 1 clinician embedded in 9-1-1.  This will grow to two clinicians by late Summer 2022.

3. What is a Community Response Team (CRT)?

CRT dispatches unarmed, 3-person teams as first responders instead of police when you call 9-1-1 about non-violent mental health crises or quality of life concerns. DCSD currently has 3 Community Response Teams in the field. 

4. What is Co-Response (CoR)?

CoR dispatches Clinicians alongside Police Officers when to 9-1-1 calls about mental health crises or other quality of life concerns that have a higher risk for violence. 

5. What is a Care Navigator (CN)?

After meeting with one of our responders during a crisis, you may need additional support connecting to community-based care. Care Navigation provides follow-up, either in person or over the phone, from our clinicians and peer support within 48 hours after the initial 9-1-1 interaction. 

6. Where do these pilots operate?

Crisis Call Diversion runs citywide in Durham. The other pilots will primarily operate in 12 police beats (111, 114, 112, 113, 122, 214, 223, 411, 413, 511, 512, 513) represented in this pilot service area map. 

7. Why don’t all pilots operate citywide? Will they ever?

During the initial pilot phase of this work, DCSD will not have sufficient staffing to support citywide responses. For pilots that demonstrate they better position the City to meet the needs of residents in crisis, we hope to increase staffing over time to expand crucial crisis response services citywide. 

8. How did you select the pilot service area and why use police beats?

Because we do not have enough responders to staff a citywide service area, we prioritized beats that had the highest number of eligible 9-1-1 calls for our pilots.  We then created a contiguous service area (one connected service area instead of multiple smaller areas) for efficiency purposes (reduces transportation time between calls allowing teams to serve more people). We selected police beats because these geographic areas already exist within our 9-1-1 system and creating all new service boundaries would have taken more time and been too complicated for a pilot.  

9. What are the hours of operation for each pilot?

Community Response Teams (CRT) currently operate 7 days a week, 10:00am – 9:00pm. Crisis Call Diversion (CCD), Co-Response, and Care Navigation currently operate Monday – Friday, 9:00am – 5:00pm. DCSD will update Durham residents when these changes in hours of operation go into effect. 

10. Why don’t pilots operate 24/7? Will they ever?

During the pilot phase of this work, DCSD will not have sufficient staffing to support 24/7 responses. For pilots that demonstrate they better position the City to meet the needs of residents in crisis, we hope to increase staffing over time to expand crucial crisis response services 24/7, similar to what we expect from other first responders. We ultimately want successful pilots available to Durham residents whenever they are needed. 

11. How did you select the hours of operation?

We ultimately plan for pilots to run 8:00am – 11:00pm. In examining the data for eligible 9-1-1 calls to see when calls most often occur, we selected hours of operation that would make our pilots available during hours where they when they were most often needed. 

12. Will these new responses slow down 9-1-1 in sending a response as call takers have to learn about the new responses?

We have taken time to fully integrate these new responses into our 9-1-1 system and to provide training to call-takers and dispatchers. The benefit of integrating our new responses into the 9-1-1 system is that it does not place added burden on call-takers to learn a new system. 

The Durham 9-1-1 call center relies on a highly programmed and automated system. Based on how you answer the the call-taker’s pre-defined script of questions when you call 9-1-1, that system generates one of over 1,000 call types. The system then recommends the appropriate type of first responder to the call-taker, so that the call-taker doesn’t have to make a decision about who to send.  We have taken the time to program in our new responses into this system, which will help us avoid adding strain on the 9-1-1 system or slowing down a system designed to quickly send the right response. 

13. How are you going to keep unarmed responders safe?

Keeping our responders and other people on the scene safe is a top priority of DCSD and we have taken time and care to plan our pilots to mitigate safety risks. Our safety plans include the following: 

• We have selected eligible calls types where arrests, assaults, and violence are incredibly rare occurrences – less than 1% of 1%. 
• We have excluded call types that would otherwise be eligible if a weapon is present or if there is physical violence toward others. 
• Our responders are fully visible to 9-1-1. We will know where our responders are and will be able to communicate with them. 
• Our responders will have radios and will be able to call for police backup, if necessary. 
• Our responders will receive one month of intensive training prior to responding to calls, including training in situational awareness and de-escalation. 

Durham is not the first to dispatch unarmed responders to non-violent calls for service. For instance, Denver, CO has been doing so since 2020 and has responded to over 3,500 calls (common calls include trespass and welfare check) and have yet to call police for back up a single time. San Francisco, CA and Eugene, OR both dispatch unarmed responders who radio for backup on average 2% of the time – with none resulting in arrests or violence. 

14. Can I request one of these responses?

Call 9-1-1 for all emergencies. If your call is eligible for one of DCSD’s pilots and one of our responders is available, 9-1-1 will dispatch the appropriate response. In general, while you may request a specific kind of response, 9-1-1 dispatchers will send the response that is most appropriate given the needs of the caller. 

15. Is there a number other than 9-1-1 to request these services?

You may call the non-emergency line at (919) 560-4600, but that number is also answered by our 9-1-1 Call Center staff. All DCSD’s responses run through 9-1-1 at this time. 

16. Why do I have to go through 9-1-1 to get an unarmed response?

Integrating our responses into the 9-1-1 center makes sense for many reasons. First, it is the one number people know to call in an emergency. So, if we want to send the right response to crises, it makes sense to start with the most common number people call. Second, reliably staffing call centers is extremely difficult, and it takes a lot of people and resources. So, it makes sense to start off by integrating our pilots into an existing system that runs 24/7 and that has the infrastructure already in place to support our needs. 

17. What kinds of personnel are staffing these pilots, and what kinds of training have they had prior to starting with DCSD?

DCSD first responders fall into three broad categories of skills, training and expertise:

Licensed Clinician	Peer Support Specialist	EMT
Someone who has a Master’s degree, if fully licensed, over 1,000 hours of supervised work and over 3 years of post-graduate experience. This role includes: Screening and assessing people experiencing crisis with mental health and substance use; providing therapeutic interventions, case management, and personalized services that connect people to community-based mental health providers.	Someone who knows the community, has relevant lived-experience, and has been trained and formally certified as a specialist. This role includes: De-escalating situations, promoting engagement in care, fostering relationships between residents and other community responders, and making connections with residents to gain trust and move them to be open to care.	Someone who has been trained to provide basic life support care and is credentialed by the state. This role includes: Assessing people for potential medical emergencies, providing life support and pre-hospital emergency medical care to individuals, and helping identify underlying medical needs that may present initially as mental health needs.

18. What kinds of additional training will DCSD staff have prior to responding to calls for service?

DCSD responders will participate in over 4 weeks of intensive training that includes but is not limited to: de-escalation, mental health first aid, racial equity, HIPAA and confidentiality, motivational interviewing, situational awareness for scene safety, trauma-informed care, suicide prevention, mental health disorders, substance related disorders, developmental disabilities, and more. We will be posting our staff onboarding plan soon. 

19. What kinds of calls for service are eligible for these pilots and how did you select them?

Our first 3 pilots will focus on the following 9-1-1 calls for service: nonviolent mental health crisis, suicide threat, trespass, welfare check, intoxicated person, assist person, panhandling, indecency, and prostitution calls. If these calls involve a person in possession of a weapon or exhibiting physical violence towards others, they will not be eligible for an unarmed response. (Instead, they would be eligible for our Co-Response pilot once it is operational by this fall). 

20. How are these pilots being evaluated?

DCSD is committed to rigorous, third-party evaluation on all of our pilots. Currently, we are planning to partner with RTI and UNC Center for Health Equity Research to conduct evaluations of our pilots to better understand what is working well and what aspects of the pilots need to be refined our overhauled. DCSD will share the results of the evaluations on our website and with City leaders upon their completion. 

21. How can I follow the progress of these pilots?

DCSD is committed to transparency. Starting in August 2022, DCSD will publish monthly dashboards on our website that will share a wide range of information on our pilots, including: 

• the number of calls we've responded to by call type;
• the number of eligible calls we were not able to respond to due to staffing levels; 
• the percent of calls where our responders had to radio for police backup and the outcome of those calls;
• the average response time; 
• the percent of calls that resulted in a transportation to the ER versus community-based care; 
• the percent of calls where we were able to follow up with our neighbors within 48 hours of an encounter with one of our crisis response teams; 
• the percent of individuals who were connected to the care they needed and wanted 

22. How did you develop these pilot plans? Who did DCSD work with to plan?

Over the past 9 months, DCSD has lead a thorough, careful planning process that was community-informed, highly collaborative, data driven and evidenced based.

Community-Informed: We have been conducting in-person resident interviews, focus groups and listening sessions. We also held two bilingual virtual town halls with Durham Community Safety and Wellness Task Force. We have directly engaged over 400 residents to date. You can view past town halls and read about what we learned from our community engagements on our website. 

Highly-Collaborative: We formed a multi-agency planning team with our public safety partners (Emergency Medical Services, Durham Police Department, Department of Emergency Communications Center [911], Durham Fire Department), Alliance Health, Criminal Justice Resource Center, UNC School of Social Work, Housing for New Hope, Research Triangle Institute (RTI), & Recovery Innovations to plan pilots. We also conducted multiple ride-alongs with Durham police officers & interviews with peer support specialists, community health workers, mental health professionals, and met with local community organizations to help plan.

Data-driven: We analyzed 3 years of Durham 911 calls to better understand which calls are appropriate for our pilots. We also conducted a use-of-force analysis and built data tools that allow us to analyze calls by volume, frequency, location, risk level, and response time.

Evidence-based: We’ve taken time to learn from many US cities leading similar work, including Albuquerque NM, Austin TX, Atlanta GA, Charleston SC, Denver CO, Greensboro NC, Houston TX, Philadelphia PA, Portland OR, & San Francisco CA, among others. We’re also part of a national cohort of five U.S. cities launching pilots this year. You can see a few of those cities' presentations to Durham residents at our October 2021 virtual town hall. 

23. Why did the City create the Community Safety Department?

Statement from City Manager Wanda Page about the creation of the Community Safety Department: “One of the highest priorities areas we think about, and work on daily, is how best to keep our residents safe and well. It’s no secret that there is great concern about violent crime in Durham. At the same time, there is concern about the history of policing in our country and its impact on people of color. Right now, Durham has an opportunity to lead the way and find new, equitable, and innovative approaches to keep our community safe and well.    The creation of this department reflects our belief that responding to the safety and wellness needs of all of our residents requires more than police officers, firefighters, and paramedics. Our first responders remain absolutely necessary and crucial to our public safety services moving forward. We still need policing to help protect our community.  But, it’s unfair to expect them to address every single issue our residents experience. For example, to expect that - on top of everything they must do - they address mental and behavioral health needs or connect residents to social services to help them through a crisis. I’d like to note that many of our officers also support exploring other ways to address 911 calls that don’t need an officer response. Meeting these sorts of diverse needs requires that we broaden our imagination of what public safety and first responders look like in Durham. I believe, as does the City Council, that creating this department is an important first step in that journey.”

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Composting

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1. What is composting?

Composting is a natural decomposition process in which microorganisms and other naturally-occurring organisms break down organic materials into a useful product called compost. We can utilize this natural process to decompose organic kitchen food wastes, grass, leaves and other yard trimmings into a nutrient-rich soil amendment.

2. Why compost?

Composting is a practical and fun way to turn your organic waste into a useful soil amendment for use in your plants, yard or garden.

3. How can I get started?

Many people find composting in their own backyard to be a simple process.  You can build an enclosure using scrap (untreated/unpainted) lumber or you can purchase one of the many commercial units available through home improvement or online stores.  How to Make a Composter | Better Homes & Gardens (bhg.com)

4. Does the City have any plans to begin composting?

Actually the City already does some composting. The City currently contracts with Atlas Organics to compost all yard waste collected as part of the yard waste curbside subscription program and yard waste delivered to the Waste Disposal and Recycling Center, as well as all biosolids produced at the North Durham Water Reclamation Facility. The City is also doing pilot programs of curbside food waste collection that is also being turned into compost. This is an area that the City continues to explore expansion, so keep an eye out for more information in the near future.

5. Does the City offer free mulch or compost?

Not at this time. There may be events in the future that have one-time offers like this as a component, so keep an eye out for those.

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Continuum of Care Entry Point

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1. I need to go to an emergency shelter in Durham. Can Entry Point help me?

Yes. Entry Point Durham will help you identify a safe place to sleep tonight. Emergency shelter beds are not always available but going to Entry Point is the only way to access shelter at Urban Ministries of Durham and Families Moving Forward. 

2. Will Entry Point Durham find me housing? Can Entry Point Durham help me get Section 8 or Public Housing?

Entry Point is not a housing program. Entry Point will work with you to help resolve your housing crisis and will refer you to shelter or housing programs in Durham if they will be helpful. 

3. Does Entry Point Durham have a residency requirement?

Everyone experiencing a housing crisis or homelessness in Durham County is eligible to receive services from Entry Point. If you are not currently experiencing homelessness in Durham County you should seek services in your home county. 

4. How is Entry Point Durham different than Durham County DSS?

Entry Point is a new program to help people facing homelessness resolve their housing crisis. Entry Point is not a DSS program, but DSS programs might refer you to Entry Point. Entry Point is connected to the Homeless Service Provider Network in Durham. Entry Point will work with you to help resolve your housing crisis and will refer you to housing programs in Durham if they will be helpful.

Although Entry Point is in the Human Services Building during the day Monday through Friday, you can also go to the Exchange Building at 801 Gilbert Street on evenings, weekends, and county holidays.

The Human Services Building in Durham also includes other resources besides DSS, such as health care resources and Veteran resources. 

5. What if I have belongings that prevent me from going through security at the Human Services Building?

You can access Entry Point in other ways too. You can also go to The Exchange Building at 801 Gilbert Street on evenings, weekends, and county holidays. The 801 Gilbert Street location is open from 4:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on weekends and county holidays. 

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Continuum of Care Pre-Application Process

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1. The Community Development Department received the following questions about the 2021 Continuum of Care Homeless Grants Competition and provides the following responses to them.

It was mentioned in the pre-application workshop that the Community Development Department (CDD) is recommending PSH projects that are designated as being Dedicate Plus. Is this recommendation for only for new projects? Meaning, can you clarify that the CDD is not expecting currently funded PSH projects (PSH renewal projects) that are currently designated as dedicated to chronically homeless change their classification to Dedicated Plus, right?  

Response:  CDD’s recommendation (as the CoC Lead Agency/Collaborative Applicant) to the Policy and Planning Committee is only for new projects, however, there is encouragement for Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) renewal projects to consider designating some or all beds currently designated as dedicated to chronically homeless people as Dedicated Plus beds, if able they are able to do so during the open CoC NOFA competition. Furthermore, it should be noted at this time that the recommendation has not been adopted by the Homeless Services Advisory Committee as the priority for any new permanent housing bonus funds available to the Durham CoC in this year’s CoC competition. The Policy & Planning Committee has taken the recommendation under advisement and will make its funding recommendation priority(ies) at its June 14th meeting. The HSAC is expected to finalize its funding recommendation priority(ies) at its June 23, 2021 meeting.

2. The FY 2019 NOFA allowed grant consolidation and transitioning projects to a different type, i.e. a TH project becoming a RRH project.

Is it currently known whether these options are available for the FY 2021 competition?

Response: It is not certain that these options will be available in the 2021 CoC competition. We will not know for sure whether these options will be included in the 2021 CoC competition until HUD releases the 2021 Notice Of Funding Availability (NOFA). However, HUD has allowed consolidation and/or reallocation of funds in pervious NOFA competitions Based on HUD’s prior practices, the CDD anticipates that HUD will make these options available in the FY 2021 CoC competition.

3. If transitioning a project is allowed in the FY 2021 competition, does that mean that a RRH project can apply to become a PSH project?

For example, if an organization were thinking about changing a RRH project to a PSH project instead; would that be a possibility?

Response: Yes, that is what the concept of a “transition project” means and would allow. This process allows an organization to transition a project from one project type to another without providing the funds to the CoC to be reallocated to the new project type in a CoC-wide competition. Organizations seeking to transition a project must follow the instructions provided in the NOFA.

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COVID ESG Funding

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1. What is the contract term for these funds? Is it a 12-month contract? A 24-month contract? Is there a specific date that the funds must be expended by? Please provide more clarity here.

Preference is for funds to be spent as quickly as possible.  The City would prefer to execute 12-month contracts.  However, the City will consider proposals for spending funds for a longer period, up to 20 months may be considered.  ESG funds have to be fully spent and drawn down from the federal system within two years and it takes time to work through the draw down process.

2. Item #2 on the Revised Scoring Rubric for Covid-19 ESG allocation focuses on an organization’s operating reserves.

Is this in an attempt to gauge an organization’s strength and ability to operate for an extended period before being reimbursed?  Or are you asking organizations to expend all their reserves before utilizing Covid-ESG funds?

The COVID ESG funds are intended to serve as emergency funds for organizations that have been significantly impacted by the COVID 19 crisis, either in terms of demand for their services, fundraising or both. To this end, the City is attempting to understand the relative need for City funding.  It is important that organizations be able to maintain at least a six-month reserve in order to provide working capital and to serve as a hedge against unexpected funding changes.  Larger liquid reserves (beyond six months) suggest that the organization may have the ability to self-fund some of the activities for which City funds are being requested, while still maintaining a healthy reserve balance.

 

3. If awarded funding, would the awarded amount be an amendment to a current ESG contract with the CDD; or would this be a completely new and separate contract?

Funds might be added to an existing contract if there is a contract already in place with the City of Durham for the same services.  If the contract is amended there would be a second scope of work to ensure ESG-COVID funds are tracked separately.  If there is not a current contract in place for the same services or the City and/or the contractor determine a new contract is required, a new contract will be written. 

4. If this would be a new contract, can you gauge how long it would take to get the contract executed and when the contract start-up meeting would happen?

A new contract would follow the normal contract process and is determined by the dollar amount of the contract.  This process usually takes approximately eight weeks.  It is likely that a contract amendment would most likely take a similar amount of time, as most amendments would require City Council approval.
 

5. Item #4 on the Scoring Rubric focuses on the cost of the activity per household. What tool are you utilizing to determine this statement:

“Applications that appear to inflate the number of households to be served to reduce the per household cost will have points deducted, at the discretion of the scorers.”?  This seems arbitrary and subjective unless there is a tool to determine this. Please advise.

This question will be evaluated against past performance of an agency to determine if the numbers of people being served are in alignment with past costs and numbers of people being served and staff capacity lines up with numbers of people expected to be served.

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Cross Connection Control

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1. My meter has been locked by Cross Connection (bright colored laminated tag) for non-compliance. How do I get it unlocked?

PLEASE NOTE: 

In an effort to help protect the quality of water in the City’s distribution system non-compliant non-essential water (Irrigation) meters that have already been locked will remain locked until all essential water backflow preventer assemblies, such as domestic and fire assemblies, are completely in compliance with annual testing.

Intentional disregard of previous notices and deadlines established by the ordinance which lead to the water being terminated at your location is deemed as a willful violation. If your DOMESTIC water has been turned off following a water termination letter for non-compliance, a willful violation penalty of $500 is also required to be paid prior to water service being restore at your location. The procedures for discontinuance and service restoration as well as liability indemnity are provided in Section 70-592 of the CCC Ordinance. 

1. Go to https://ipn2.paymentus.com/rotp/dhccto make a payment for the unlock
   1. Select “TRIP CHARGE” then enter your address
   2. Proceed with the $75 unlock payment (Per Backflow Preventer)
   3. Upon completion you and the City will receive a paid receipt confirmation.
2. Repeat step 1 above if your DOMESTIC water has been turned off for non-compliance
   1. Select "WILLFUL VIOLATION" then enter your address
   2. Proceed with the $500 civil penalty
   3. Upon completion, you and the City will receive a paid receipt confirmation
3. Hire a certified approved backflow tester.  If you do not know how to find a tester, please follow the steps below:
   1. Go to https://www.bsionlinetracking.com/customer 
   2. Enter your CCN: XXXX-XXXX.  If you do not know your CCN please email [email protected] and request your CCN. Please provide your address in the email.
   3. Click “FIND A TESTING COMPANY.”
4. The approved backflow tester shall coordinate with one of our Code Compliance Officers to schedule a date and time to meet on site.
   1. Lonnie Boone, Senior CCC Compliance Officer
      • Phone: (919) 560-4194, ext. *35411
      • Mobile: (919) 717-4637
      • Email: [email protected]
   2. Thomas Stern, CCC Compliance Officer I
      • Phone: (919) 560-4194 ext. 35998
      • Mobile: (919) 937-7117
      • Email: [email protected]
5. Our inspector will meet the tester, unlock the meter and wait until the tester performs the test. The CCC staff will wait up to 15 min. of the selected time/date. After 15 min. if the tester fails to show up the $75 unlock fee will be forfeited and all the steps above will need to be repeated.
   1. If the backflow passes, the meter will remain unlocked.
   2. If the backflow fails, the meter will be locked back.
6. Upon passing test results, the tester will provide a copy of the test results to City staff and City staff will make the backflow ACTIVE in BSI.
7. Certified Tester shall manually enter the test results into https://www.bsionlinetracking.com/ within 24 hours of the test. If test(s) are not received within 24 hours the meter(s) will be locked again and the process will start all over.

2. What types of backflow conditions exist?

Two: backsiphonage and backpressure.

3. What is Backsiphonage?

Backsiphonage is a reversal of normal flow in a system caused by a negative pressure (vacuum or partial vacuum) in the supply piping.

4. What factors can cause backsiphonage?

Backsiphonage can be created when there is a stoppage of the water supply due to nearby firefighting, repairs or breaks in the City Main, etc. Water is sucked back through the line.

5. What is backpressure?

Backpressure is the reversal of normal flow in a system due to an increase in the downstream pressure above the supply pressure. Water is pushed back through the line.

6. What factors can cause backpressure?

Installation such as heating systems, elevated tanks, and pressure producing systems can create backpressure by making the downstream pressure higher than the supply pressure such as a hot water boiler.

7. What is a cross connection?

A cross connection is a direct connection between potable and non-potable water.

8. What is the most common form of a cross connection?

Your ordinary garden hose and sill cock hose bibb on the outside of your house is the most common cross connection and if used incorrectly can create a variety of potentially dangerous applications.

9. What is an Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB)?

An AVB consist of an air inlet valve, a check seat, and an air inlet port(s). If installed properly, the air inlet opens allowing air into the body of the device which compensates for any vacuum and separates the downstream non-potable water from the upstream potable water.

10. Will an Anti-Siphon Vacuum Breaker protect against backpressure?

Absolutely not. If there is an increase in the downstream pressure over that of the supply, the check valve would tend to “modulate,” thus permitting the backflow of contaminated water to pass through the orifice into the potable water supply line.

11. What is continuous pressure?

Twelve hours of use or more. This term is applied to an installation where the pressure is being supplied continuously to a backflow preventer for periods over 12 hours or more.

12. Can an AVB be used under continuous pressure?

No. Code does not allow AVB’s to be used under continuous pressure because the device could become stuck or frozen causing the device not to function properly under an emergency situation.

13. What is a Hose Bibb Vacuum Breaker (HBVB)?

It’s a type of AVB commonly found on hose bibbs on outside faucets. These only protect against backsiphonage, NOT backpressure. They cannot be used for continuous pressure. They cannot have a shut-off valve downstream of the device.

14. Can I tie my lawn irrigation/sprinkler system to my outside AVB or HBVB?

Absolutely not. General Statue, NC Plumbing Code, and City of Durham Code of Ordinance do not allow this type of connection. See Non-Compliant Hose Bibb Irrigation Systems (PDF) for more information.

15. If I have an existing lawn irrigation/sprinkler system do I need a backflow preventer?

Yes, City of Durham Code of Ordinance requires an Reduced Pressure (RP) type backflow, ASSE 1013 approval.

16. If I have a new lawn irrigation/sprinkler system do I have to have a separate irrigation meter?

It depends. If your property was platted on or before June 30, 2009, no you do not need a separate irrigation meter. However, if your property was platted after June 30, 2009, per GS § 143-355.4, a separate irrigation meter would be required.

17. When do I need to get a backflow permit? Do I also need a Plumbing Permit?

When a new installation, replacement, relocation, or removal of a backflow is performed, a backflow permit is required. When replacing a backflow like-for-like, only a backflow permit is required. If it’s a new installation or a replacement where plumbing work is involved, a plumbing permit is also required.

18. As a homeowner, can I install my own backflow preventer?

Yes, however you still are required to obtain a backflow permit prior to doing the work. Once the backflow permit is issued you can proceed with doing the work. Once the work is completed please hire a certified backflow tester to test the backflow. The test results shall be submitted to the City of Durham. Once test results have been received by the City, you can schedule an inspection at (919) 560-4194.

19. Do I need a plumbing permit to install a backflow preventer?

It depends. If the backflow installation is new, then a plumbing permit is required. If you are simply replacing an existing backflow and it is like-for-like with no changes to the plumbing, then no, a plumbing permit is not required.

20. What if I have a commercial property or I just don’t feel comfortable doing the work myself, who can I hire?

For installation – a properly licensed contractor (Fire, Utility, or Plumbing Contractors license) is required.
For testing - a certified tester list is provided on our website. These individuals have also provided documentation that they are also properly licensed contractor.
For repairs – a properly licensed contractor (Fire, Utility, or Plumbing Contractors license) is required.

21. How do I become a certified backflow tester in Durham?

To become a certified backflow tester in Durham you first need to be employed by a properly licensed contractor (with proof of employment) or be a property licensed contractor yourself. A Fire, Utility, or Plumbing Contractors license is required. Next, visit our website and print the course packet. When ready, fill out , sign, and return the class application and testers check list.

22. Are re-certification classes every 2 years necessary?

Yes. The plumbing code is updated on a three year cycle with amendments and revisions that may affect installation and testing criteria. In addition, ordinance changes or updates in each municipality could occur of which you need to be aware.

23. Why can’t we have one universal State backflow testing form for each jurisdiction?

This is a reasonable question; however health, inspections, and water purveyor are not the same. Many use parts of the test form to gather information that will prove that the tester actually tested the valves. Others gather information about what they actually have in their water system or simply gather pressure readings throughout their system. No matter the reason, necessary information which allows the tester to record the results of the testing and any needed repairs is useful to any cross connection program, no matter the format.

24. What if I want to test backflows outside of Durham?

The City of Durham has a reciprocity agreement with Raleigh, Charlotte, Greenville, Fayetteville, and NC Rural Water. If a certification or recertification certificate is obtained at any of these schools, the City of Durham will allow you to test in Durham after attending an 2 hour orientation. The same goes if you are originally certified in Durham and you wish to test at any of the above jurisdictions; they will accept your certificate from Durham. Keep in mind: you still have to seek approval from each municipality before you starting testing; they may need things like a copy of your certificate or calibration data.

25. Why do I have to be a properly licensed contractor to test backflows in Durham?

In accordance with the NC General Statues § 87-21, subsection (c) and 21 NCAC 50.0506 anyone who interrupts the water supply is required be properly licensed. When testing a backflow preventer one or both shut-off valves on the backflow preventer is required to be turned off during testing, therefore interrupting the water supply. North Carolina has a statewide licensing program for Plumbing, Utility, and Fire Protection Contractors. Part of the State licensing General Statue requirements is that these individuals are properly trained and certified to preform trouble shooting beyond the routine annual testing. By law, installation and repairs of backflow preventers can only be performed by a properly licensed person, carrying this requirement over to include testing allows the City of Durham to ensure quality work is carried over to each customer.

26. How often do I have to test my backflow preventer?

Annually. You should be receiving a letter annually notifying you when your backflow preventer is due for testing. If you have a backflow preventer and are not receiving a letter from the City of Durham Department of Water Management Cross Connection Control, please contact us at (919) 560-4194.

27. What if I have a temporary use that requires a backflow preventer assembly, do I have to get a permit, inspection, etc.?

For temporary purposes, the City does offer a Fire Hydrant Metering option including a backflow preventer that can be rented from the the Department of Water Management Water & Sewer Maintenance division. For more information or to request the Hydrant Meter Rental Procedures and fees, please contact them at (919) 560-4344.

28. How do I pay for CCC Class Enrollment, residential opt-in testing program enrollment, unlock trip charge fee, illegal connection citations, and any other associated fees with Cross Connection?

Please visit our CCC Online One Time Payment website at https://ipn2.paymentus.com/rotp/dhcc. Select the payment you would like to make and then enter either your permit number or student name. Once payment has been approved, you will receive a confirmation email and a copy will be sent to [email protected]. Your payment will be applied appropriately.

29. What does it take to be ASSE 1060-Certified for Freeze Protection Insulated Enclosures?

There are three different classes an enclosure can be placed in, depending upon the amount of protection it provides. If the enclosure is in a climate where winters are long and temperatures are cold, the ASSE 1060 Class 1 will provide the freeze protection needed.

• Class 1 is the hardest to achieve, but backflow enclosures in this class offer maximum freeze protection. The 1060 standard freeze protection means the heated enclosure will maintain 40 degrees Fahrenheit in as low as -30 degree weather. If you live in an area with freezing temperatures, no matter how long the freeze lasts, you should require Class 1 enclosure.
• Class 2 only includes covers that have frost protection. This means the industrial enclosure is insulated but does not meet the same temperature requirements as Class 1. These should only be used in areas where temperatures never fall below 33 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Class 3 boxes do not provide freeze or frost protection. These are only useful for aesthetics as well as theft, vandal and accident protection.

30. How do I get my meter unlocked?

If your meter has been locked by Cross Connection Control for non-compliance, such as past due backflow testing, please follow these steps to get the meter unlocked.

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Durham One Call FAQs

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1. How do I start new water service?

New water service can be requested online. Go to the Start Water Service webpage to review the requirements and scroll to the bottom of the page to complete the online request form.

If you are leasing the property for which you are requesting water service, you will be asked to upload a signed copy of your lease. If you have just purchased the home we may need a copy of your closing statement.

2. How can I make changes to my water billing account?

Many changes or requests can be made by submitting an online request form or contacting Durham One Call at 919-560-1200. Please note that the majority of account information and/or changes can only be made by the verified account holder or their authorized designee.

3. How do I access my online water billing account?

Access your account and make payments through the City's online utilities customer portal. For assistance using the portal, view a list of FAQ's.

4. How can I get help paying my water bill?

We don’t want anyone to go without water due to financial difficulties. We can work with you to develop a monthly payment plan or provide a list of community resources that may offer financial support. Please select one of the options below.

5. Where can I find a trash pickup schedule for my address?

Visit the Find My Collection Day webpage to view the garbage and recycling schedule for your address. On the same page, you can also sign up to receive reminders, print a calendar, and search to find out which items are recyclable. 

If you are a yard waste customer, you can also view your yard waste schedule on the Find My Collection Day webpage.

You can also download the City's Rollout app for Android or iPhone to track your schedule and receive notifications.

6. My trash was never picked up! Who do I contact?

Before contacting the City about missed trash collection, please verify on the Find My Collection Day webpage that it is your scheduled trash pickup day. If your trash was indeed scheduled to be picked up, please contact Durham One Call via our online request form, download our app for Android or iPhone, or call 919-560-1200 to report missed trash collection. 

Please note that trucks may be running late due to mechanical or weather-related issues, so please give us a reasonable window of time before contacting us to report missed trash collection.

7. My garbage/recycling cart is damaged. How do I get a new one?

You can request a replacement garbage or recycling cart by contacting Durham One Call via our online request form, download our app for Android or iPhone, or call 919-560-1200. Please allow the City 7-10 business days to deliver replacement cart.

8. I submitted a request using the Durham One Call online request form. What happens now?

One Call staff will review your request in the order it was received and route it to the appropriate City staff. You can receive email updates and check the status of your request with the account you created when you submitted your request. Response times vary by request, department servicing request, and volume of requests received, so please be patient as we work to resolve your request.

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Durham One Call TextMyGov

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1. Is this similar to live chat?

TextMyGov is not a live chat service. It's set up to automatically respond with answers to popular topics and questions.

2. What if I don't get the answer I'm looking for?

If you don't get the answer you are looking for or your request is very specific or detailed, please call Durham One Call at 919-560-1200.

3. Are there other ways to get assistance?

In addition to TextMyGov, there are several ways to get assistance from Durham One Call:

• Submit an online request
• Call 919-560-1200
• Download the Durham One Call app for Apple or Android

4. What are the terms and conditions?

Message and data rates apply. Text STOP at any time to opt-out.

View terms and privacy policy info at: textmygov.com/opt-in-terms-conditions

5. How can I provide feedback?

To share your TextMyGov experience, complete the Durham One Call Satisfaction Survey or text "survey" to 919-813-6315.

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Durham YouthWorks Program - Employer/Business Owner FAQs

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1. What’s in it for business?

Hosting an intern is a low-cost/ high reward opportunity by which businesses can realize benefits including provision of additional help for projects and fill in for employees on vacation. Hosting an intern can also allow for the contribution of new ideas and energy, provision of additional staff support and cultivation of talent and skill sets to address pending retirements. Not only this, but it can also build and shape the workforce through providing important job and career skills.

An investment in Durham YouthWorks is vital to help develop youth and enhance our educational and workforce development systems. A better educated and more highly skilled community means a better community in which to live, work and play. A better place to live, work and play is a better place to do business.

2. What is the approximate cost to your business?

YouthWorks can work with individual businesses to tailor the internship to meet the needs of the business. The cost for businesses to serve as an internship host site can range from $1,400 - $2,400 depending on the number of weeks and hours worked by the intern. Internships are typically 30 hours a week for 6-8 weeks. Businesses can also sponsor an intern to be placed at another organization if they are not able to host the intern at their organization.

Previous summer opportunities have been funded by contributions from Duke University and Duke University Medical Centers, Biogen Idec, Durham Coca-Cola, Chick-Fil-A, Kimley Horn, Hadenstanziale, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina, American Safety Products, NC Mutual Life and Cormetech.

3. How does a business get matched with an intern?

YouthWorks reviews youth applications, interviews applicants, and recommends internship matches. Businesses also have the option of reviewing applications and interviewing potential interns. YouthWorks also provides interns a pre-employment job skills workshop led by Durham Public Schools featuring professionals from local businesses and organizations. Interns and businesses are supported by YouthWorks staff throughout the internship.

4. How does your business sign up to participate?

Businesses and organizations interested in hiring youth for the summer and/or afterschool internships should sign up via our Google form.

Position Request Form.

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East Main Street Waterline Replacement

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1. Why is this work needed, what is included, how much will it cost, and how long will it take?

This project will replace deteriorating waterlines that were installed in the 1920s and 1930s. Approximately 5,500 feet of waterlines within the East Main Street area will be replaced. Also, existing water meter boxes will be upgraded to current standards. The project is estimated to cost approx. $2.5 million and will be paid for by previously authorized capital improvement program (CIP) funds. Waterline construction is anticipated to last approximately 6 months.

2. Will my business/property be impacted during the construction phase of this project?

Construction will not occur on private properties; however, there will be pedestrian, traffic, and noise impacts throughout the East Main Street area during construction. The city’s contractor will be required to maintain access to residences and businesses at all times, though on-street parking and pedestrian access may be obstructed due to the work area or traffic detours.

All property owners will be notified in advance of construction near their property; this includes any planned water service disruptions. Sound levels near active construction areas are anticipated to range between 70 and 90 decibels. Due to traffic control constraints, it will be necessary to conduct some work in high-traffic areas during weekend hours.

3. Why will some construction take place on weekends?

Due to the many existing utilities located beneath the roads in the project area, the installation of the proposed waterline will require lane and/or road closures to expedite construction. In some portions of the project area, construction will take place during weekend hours in order to minimize traffic, pedestrian, and bus impacts. Weekend work will allow the contractor to complete work that requires road closures while minimizing the impacts to traffic and nearby businesses. Sound levels near active construction areas are anticipated to range between 70 and 90 decibels.

4. How will I know about detours, changes in traffic patterns, etc.?

In addition to other notifications, signage will inform and direct property owners, residents, and visitors in the East Main Street area regarding detours, changes in traffic patterns, and access issues throughout construction. Disturbed areas along roadways and sidewalks will be repaved, and lawns will be graded and reseeded at the end of the project.

5. Will my water service be affected by this project?

Once the project enters the construction phase, existing water meters in the project area will be reconnected to the newly installed waterlines. It is possible that customers will be without water for a short duration (typically a few hours) while this transition takes place. Property owners will be notified in advance regarding any planned service disruptions.

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Fire Department

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1. Can residents burn within the city limits?

No, it is unlawful to conduct any open burning of trash or debris inside the city limits of Durham. Burning permits are NOT issued to City of Durham residents. 

The City Solid Waste Management Department does offer curbside collection of yard waste. The Solid Waste Department can be contacted at 919-560-4186 for information on this service.

2. I have trash and/or yard waste. Can I burn it?

No, it is unlawful to conduct any open burning of trash or debris inside the city limits of Durham. Burning permits are NOT issued to City of Durham residents. 

The City Solid Waste Management Department does offer curbside collection of yard waste. The Solid Waste Department can be contacted at 919-560-4186 for information on this service.

3. Can I have a fire pit or an outdoor fireplace on my property?

Yes.  Details can be found at Recreational Burning.  As a reminder, these regulations pertain to burning within the City limits. Durham County has specific regulations.   

4. How do I find my insurance rating and Fire Station?

Enter your address in Insurance Rating (ISO) and Fire Station?

Find My Insurance Rating.

5. I called for an ambulance. Why did a fire truck arrive?

Firefighters are certified emergency medical technicians and they respond to a variety of medical emergencies within the City. Firefighters supplement services provided by ambulances by arriving quickly and providing additional skilled manpower. The fire trucks carry medical supplies and equipment to stabilize and/or resuscitate patients. As always, call 911 if you have an emergency.

6. I see firefighters at the gym during the workday? Why?

The Fire Department requires firefighters to undergo mandatory annual fitness testing. They are strongly encouraged to take one hour per day for strength training and cardiovascular fitness to maintain their health and to meet the requirements of their annual fitness test.

Firefighters work a 24 hour shift for five days on a rotating schedule. During their off time, some firefighters have opted to purchase their own gym memberships to have access to equipment and facilities in their assigned service area. 

7. Why do I see firefighters at the grocery store during the workday?

Firefighters work a 24 hour shift. Fire stations are equipped with full kitchens to allow firefighters to prepare meals for themselves during their shift. As required by policy, the crew is permitted to shop at a grocery store in their assigned service area to purchase food items for meals. Firefighters buy their own food items, as the fire department does not supplement food purchases. 

8. Can I volunteer for the Durham Fire Department?

We are a paid fire department and do not have volunteer firefighters. The departments below are volunteer fire departments in our area:

Bahama Fire Department

Lebanon Fire Department

Redwood Volunteer Fire Department

Volunteer Departments.

9. I keep calling the fire station. Why am I not getting an answer?

The crew is out of the station. They may be on a call for emergency service, attending a training session, or participating in a community event. If you do not get an answer, please leave a message.

10. My fire alarm is chirping. What does that mean?

If your fire alarm is chirping, it may be time to change your battery. Smoke alarm batteries should be changed twice a year and should be checked monthly. Please call 919-560-4242 and request extension 19223, 19241, or 19242 for more information.

11. How do I reset the alarm and/or replace the battery backup?

To reset the unit:

1.  Turn off the power to the smoke alarm at the circuit breaker.
2. Remove the smoke alarm from the mounting bracket and disconnect the power.
3. Remove the battery.
4.  Press and hold the test button for at least 15 seconds.
5.  The unit may chirp or alarm for a few seconds before going silent.
6. Reconnect the power and reinstall the battery.
7. The unit will chirp once when the power is restored and should not chirp afterwards.

For information, call: 919-560-4242, extension 19223, 19241 or 19242 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

properly change your batteries.

12. There is a fire hydrant that has been running for some time. Why doesn't the fire department cut it off?

The Fire Department will not leave a hydrant running, and if the hydrant is in use by the Fire Department, a department member should be nearby. Other city departments, such as Public Works or Water Management, may leave hydrants running for extended periods of time for a variety of reasons. If you see a hydrant running and there is no sign or labeled piece of equipment indicating that a City agency is at work, call Durham One Call at 919-560-1200 to make a report.

13. How can I get a fire hydrant painted?

The City of Durham Water Department performs all maintenance on City fire hydrants. Call Durham One Call at 919-560-4185 to be connected to a Water Department supervisor that can schedule your request.

14. When are you hiring?

We normally accept applications for entry level applicants annually in April. Certified/Lateral applicant hiring processes may occur any time a need arises. Please visit our Become a Durham Firefighter page.

Becoming a Firefighter page.

15. Where is the nearest fire station to me?

To find the closest fire station to your home address, enter your address at Find my Fire Station

Find My Fire Station System.

16. Where do I send records search requests for property condition assessments such as past history of : hazardous spills, fire code violations, fire inspections, etc.?

Requests for property condition assessments should be requested using the following link:  Fire Report

17. How do I get an ABC permit?

ABC Permit Questions

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Fire Department - Entry Level Applicant FAQs

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1. Are Fire Recruits paid during the Academy?

Yes, you will be paid throughout the entire academy. Additionally, your textbooks are paid for by the department.

2. Do you have any tips for applying?

List at least three PROFESSIONAL references rather than personal references.  We want to know about your WORK characteristics.  Also, verify the phone numbers you list and advise your references that they may receive a call from an unknown phone number.

Get your documents together NOW!  We will require copies of the documents listed below if you receive an interview/offer. Some of these documents are time consuming to get and obtaining them can be stressful (ask everyone who applied during COVID). All of these are documents that adults should have readily available, so get them together NOW.  

• Birth Certificate 
• Social Security Card
• Transcript from your highest level of completed education
• DD-214 (if applicable)
• Valid and Unexpired Driver's License (if you do not have this by July 1, you will be eliminated from the process)
• Shot Records
  • MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) 
  • Varicella (Chickenpox) If no vaccine administered, show medical proof of Chickenpox
  • Tdap (Tetanus) If more than 10 years ago, you will have to get another one
  • HBV (Hep-B)
  • Influenza - (Flu Shot) If more than 1 year ago, you will have to get another one
  • COVID - Full vaccine regimen with booster information (may not be required, but HIGHLY recommended)

3. Is the starting salary negotiable?

No, Fire Recruits begin at a salary of $40,682. Unless there are exceptional circumstances, after graduating the academy and completing a probationary period (normally one year), firefighters receive a pay increase.

4. What can I expect on the written test for Fire RECRUITS?

Glad you asked - Check out the guidelines and examples for written testing here.

Also, be sure to watch the video from Fire Driver Andre Knight (now Fire Captain Andre Knight!).

5. How difficult is it to pass the physical testing?

Our physical agility testing can be pretty tough if you're not in shape. Be sure to check out our Agility Test video. 

ADDITIONALLY, don't assume that just because you're slender or just because you lift weights, you're destined to pass our medical physical. Our physician will measure your cardiovascular fitness, BMI, METS, etc. We don't expect all of our applicants to be marathon runners and cross-fit instructors and we take into consideration that you will experience ample conditioning during the academy. Even with these factors, we also want to invest time and resources into those who are already taking an active role in their own fitness. Because passing our medical physical is a requirement for employment, we encourage applicants NOT to give notice to their current employers until they are aware that they have passed physical testing. 

6. What time does the academy start each day?

Most days, our academy begins with physical training at 6 AM. Keep in mind that tardiness is not tolerated and is grounds for dismissal.

7. How long does the academy last?

Check out the academy schedule to get an idea of how long the academy lasts.

8. I'm really nervous about testing for EMT classes. Will I be able to pass?

We take great pride in our level of instruction. If you are 100% committed to studying, we are 100% committed to preparing you for testing. Make no mistake, you will HAVE TO STUDY hard to pass classes and earn your EMT certification.  You'll have to put other parts of your life on hold until you get through the class.  We're not telling you this to scare you, but if you're not willing to commit, don't waste our time or yours.  

Remember:  We've already invested in you!  Your success is our success.    

9. Does the City of Durham provide temporary housing or relocation expenses?

No, we do not offer temporary housing or relocation expenses for Firefighters.

10. What are requirements for physical conditioning?

You've seen the descriptions of our Physical Agility Test (PAT); however, if hired, you must also pass an in-depth physical. This physical is rigorous. 

For some reason, since COVID, an increasing number of applicants are not passing our pre-employment physical. Being slender or simply being a weight lifter, does not ensure that you will definitely pass our physical. Your cardio health is an important measure of your physical capabilities. 

Your cardio health is an important measure of your physical capabilities.  

Your cardio health is an important measure of your physical capabilities. (Yes, we meant to list that three times.)

11. What would my schedule look like when I go into Operations?

Our Firefighters work an average of ten 24-hour shifts per month on A, B, or C Shift. Shifts run from 7 am until 7 am the following day. Firefighters work every other day for 10 days. After that 10-day cycle is complete, each firefighter is off for 6 consecutive days. Check out our shift calendar.  

12. How often does the DFD hire?

Our goal is to accept Entry Level applications annually in April. Applicants must apply at DurhamNC.gov.

We have no plans to hire Certified/Lateral applicants at this time.

13. If I'm hired, what documents will I need before beginning employment?

If you did not attach the documents below to your employment application, please bring them on your interview date.  

1. Birth Certificate 
2. Social Security Card
3. Transcript from your highest level of completed education
4. DD-214 (if applicable)
5. Valid and Unexpired Driver's License (if you do not have a driver's license by July 1, you will be eliminated from the process)
6. Shot Records
   • MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) 
   • Varicella (Chickenpox) If no vaccine administered, show medical proof of Chickenpox
   • Tdap (Tetanus) If more than 10 years ago, you will have to get another one
   • HBV (Hep-B)
   • Influenza - (Flu Shot) If more than 1 year ago, you will have to get another one 
   • COVID - Full vaccine regimen with booster information (may not be required, but HIGHLY recommended) 

14. What shot records will I need?

Our new employees must participate in clinical rotations as part of their EMS training. These vaccines are required for entry into all clinical sites for EMS rotations:

• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) 
• Varicella (Chickenpox) If no vaccine administered, show medical proof of Chickenpox
• Td/Tdap (Tetanus & Diptheria/Tetanus, Diptheria, Pertussis) If more than 10 years ago, you will have to get another one.
• Hepatitis (Hep-B)
• Influenza - (Flu Shot) If more than 1 year ago, you will have to get another one.
• COVID - Full vaccine regimen with booster information (may not be required, but HIGHLY recommended) 

15. Are there any residency requirements for City of Durham Firefighters?

No; however, applicants must complete an academy before going into Operations. This academy is lengthy with early start times. We do not offer any living arrangements or temporary housing.  

16. When are you hiring Certified/Lateral Firefighters?

At this time, we have NO plans to hire certified firefighters. We are opting to only hire entry level applicants in the foreseeable future.

17. Still got questions?

Please read the information at DurhamFD.org.  After checking out our site, if you still have questions about our hiring process, please email [email protected].

We hope to see you in Durham!

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Fire Hydrant Flushing

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1. Why does Water Management flush hydrants?

Routinely flushing water mains through hydrants is a necessary and important part of maintaining Durham's water distribution system. Hydrant flushing removes sediments that build up in the mains, keeps water flowing and prevents stagnation, and ensures proper chlorine levels and high water quality throughout the system. Flushing also helps us ensure the City's fire hydrants are working properly.

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Fire Hydrant Meter Program

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1. What are your sizes of hydrant meters?

The City of Durham offers two different Fire Hydrant Assemblies:

• Standard Fire Hydrant Meter Assembly includes a 3” water meter, Backflow Preventer and an external  2.5” NST Fire Hose Connection and & ¾” MIPT Garden Hose Connection.
• Jumper Box Assembly includes 2” inlet and outlet connections for soft copper when a direct tap is needed due to no local fire hydrants.
  
  

2. What are your fees for hydrant meters?

• Deposit - $500 Refundable
• Rental Fee - $150/month (1 month to 1 day)
• Consumption - Current Tier 3 Water Rate

3. How much water will I get from my meter?

You can expect approximately  8 - 435 gallons per minute (gpm).

4. Are hoses provided?

The assembly is attached to a fire hydrant via a fire hose provided by the City of Durham. Discharge hoses are not provided and are the responsibility of the customer.

5. Should I turn off the fire hydrant during the winter months or when freezing temperatures are expected?

No. Fire hydrant meter customers or their representatives are not authorized to operate City of Durham fire hydrants or any fire hydrant that has a fire hydrant meter assembly installed on it. The fire hydrant assembly is secured in an insulated box and includes thermostatic freeze protection.

6. How long do you allow hydrant meter to be used?

Rental periods may vary from one day to one year or more. Rental fees and consumption charges are paid monthly. As long as the account remains current you can remain in possession of the fire hydrant meter assembly.

7. What if hydrant meter is damaged or lost?

• The City of Durham hydrant meter assemblies are installed, maintained, and secured by City of Durham Water and Sewer Maintenance staff. This allows the City of Durham to maintain the liability and responsibility of the equipment. There may be rare cases where extreme damage occurs to the exterior of the fire hydrant meter assembly in which case it would be expected that this damage occurred due to neglect from the customer and the $500 deposit would not be refunded.

8. Who can I contact for more information?

You may contact the Hydrant Meter Coordinator at 919-560-4344, option 4.

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Fire Services

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1. Where do I find the insurance rating (ISO) and Fire Station for my address?

Your insurance rating (ISO) and Fire Station location can be found at Find My Fire Station ISO (Insurance Rating). 

2. What Fire Station serves my address?

Click here to find your Fire Station. 

3. How can I contact a fire inspector?

If you know your Fire Inspector or Assistant Fire Marshal’s name, the contact information is listed here.  

Fire Prevention Division page.

4. How can I get a copy of a Fire Report?

A Fire Report  or an Environmental Survey Assessment (ESA-1) must be requested here.

Public Records Request

5. How can I schedule the Fire Department, firefighters, or a fire truck to participate in my community event?

You can request that the fire department participate in your community event by calling 919-560-4242, ext. 19223, 19241, or 19242, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., or by completing our online Fire Education Event/Safety Request Form.  Please know that we do not participate in birthday parties. 

Event Request Form

6. How can I schedule a ride-along with a fire station?

Ride-Alongs can last up to 12 hours long and must be scheduled after completion of the items listed below:

1. Submit a Ride-Along Request Form.
2. Print and complete pages 1 and 2 Review of policy found in Ride Along Documents
3. Submit a paper copy of driver's license.
4. Attend a 20 minute safety briefing

7. I received a bill from Fire Recovery USA (FRUSA) that I believe is incorrect. What should I do?

A partnership between the City of Durham Fire Department and California-based Fire Recovery USA (FRUSA) allows fire inspectors to utilize an automated inspection program. The invoices and receipts for these inspections will be emailed from the Fire Recovery USA Inspections Department.

You may mail your payment or pay for the fire inspections online. For online payments, visit Fire Recovery USA or call at 888-640-7222, ext. 112.

If you still believe that you have received a bill in error, have your account number available and contact the Fire Prevention Division at 919-560-4242, ext. 19247.

8. How do I schedule a fire drill for my business?

Complete a Fire Education Event/Safety Request Form

Community Event Request Form.

9. How do I request a free smoke alarm?

Please review the Alarm for Life Program on the Fire Education Event/Safety Request Form

Fire Prevention Programs page.

10. How do I schedule a fire inspection?

Complete a Fire Inspection Request Form. You will receive a response within 24-48 hours, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, or City holidays.  If you do not receive a response within 48 hours, please contact Deputy Fire Marshal Joel Gullie. 

11. Does the Durham Fire Department install car seats?

Child Car Seat Inspection

The Durham Fire Department assists Safe Kids Durham County with Child Car Seat Inspections. Use the link below to make an appointment at 226 Milton Road, Durham, NC 27712.

Safe Kids Durham County | Safe Kids Worldwide

Questions? Email [email protected]  or call 919-560-4242 extension 19223.  

12. Where can I find City of Durham Ordinances?

City of Durham Ordinances can be found at https://library.municode.com/nc/durham/codes/code_of_ordinances.

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Forever Home Durham

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1. What is the goal of Forever Home, Durham?

Forever Home, Durham improves housing quality and affordability for renters and homeowners citywide. The program serves a range of individuals and families: those experiencing homelessness, renters, first-time homebuyers, and current homeowners. Too many renters and homeowners in the City of Durham are living in deteriorated conditions and unable to afford decent housing, and tragically, many have no housing at all. All of Durham is in this together. Forever Home, Durham will have a significant impact on housing affordability – and more. Catalytic public investments such as this program bring partners together, creating opportunities in the private sector, attracting funds and creating jobs, and accomplishing more than any single entity or program could do alone. The communal desire for a better Durham propels this vision. New issues will surely arise over the course of the multi-year Forever Home, Durham program, and each member of the community can play a role in understanding the larger vision and how the success of the program is in everyone’s best interest.

2. Will Forever Home, Durham, solve the affordable housing crisis in Durham?

Forever Home, Durham will have a significant impact on housing affordability in Durham. The program established the following expectations in 2019: to create and preserve 2,400 affordable rental homes, create 400 homeownership opportunities, house 1,700 residents experiencing homelessness, and offer services and financial assistance to stabilize over 3,000 renters and owners in their current homes. While these milestones are important, even with this investment, there is much more work to be done to address the large-scale, complex challenges related to affordable housing in our City. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, there are over 12,000 renter households in Durham – most of them very low-income – paying more than 50 percent of their income for housing. Addressing their needs, as well as the needs of low-income homeowners, homebuyers, and residents experiencing homelessness, requires a multipronged strategy. In addition to a continued commitment to housing security and affordability, there must also be a focus on racial and ethnic inequalities, economic development, and the creation of quality jobs. Forever Home, Durham is just one piece of the puzzle.

3. Does this program focus on other areas in addition to the development of affordable housing?

Yes, in addition to supporting the development of affordable housing units, the City also plays an important role in providing services to low-income residents. The City of Durham serves as the coordinator for Durham’s homelessness system and provides funding for a range of emergency shelter and homeless housing programs. In addition, the City works with community-based partners to offer repair and rehabilitation programs for low-income, elderly, and disabled homeowners, down payment assistance for income-qualified homebuyers, and legal assistance for low-income renters facing evictions. These outcomes are tracked in the homeless assistance, home ownership, and neighborhood stabilization categories, and will also contribute to economic development.

4. How will the City achieve the goals of Forever Home, Durham?

Partnerships are critical to the outcomes of this program, and the City is working with a variety of affordable housing developers to achieve these goals, including the Durham Housing Authority (DHA), nonprofits, and for-profit developers as well a range of community-based organizations. The City also works with other housing funders, including public-sector agencies like the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), banks, credit unions, and nonprofit affordable housing lenders. Proportionally, the largest investment from the initial $160 million program is in multifamily rentals, which will achieve the new construction and preservation outcomes as well as contribute to economic development.

5. How does the $160 million spur $443 million in private funding for additional affordable housing support in the City of Durham?

The Forever Home, Durham investment significantly preserves and increases the quality and quantity of the City’s affordable housing stock and focuses on providing housing to low-income Durham residents. City funding for affordable housing bridges the gap between the cost of development and the funding that can be raised through private debt and equity financing. This City gap financing is critical to making affordable housing construction and preservation projects feasible. The City’s $160 million investment is expected to spur $443 million in private funding, creating a total $603 million investment in Durham’s future. Notably, the program includes $130 million in contracting opportunities for minority and women-owned firms. Businesses and investments that are expected to arise alongside of, and because of, the $603 million total investment will support jobs, providing opportunities for residents to earn income and live in decent, affordable housing for many years to come.

6. What progress has the program made so far?

The City is making real progress on the goals for housing and jobs through partnerships. FY2022 spending commitments are underway and progress can be seen in outcomes, particularly for direct services to low-income residents and in homeless services. Progress on longer-term housing construction outcomes is seen in key indicators, such as RFPs issued and contracts signed, in which partners are accountable to specific goals. The City of Durham does not develop affordable housing directly; it uses local and federal funds to fill gaps in a developer’s financing plan and is a differentiating factor in how an affordable housing developer attracts private capital. Both for-profit and nonprofit developers use City commitments to create financing packages for building or preserving affordable housing, thus bringing together a range of community partners to improve as much housing as possible.

7. What is the role of the Durham Housing Authority (DHA) in providing housing in Durham?

DHA is a federally-funded quasi-governmental agency that owns and manages public housing, which is a form of affordable housing serving extremely low-income households. DHA is the largest affordable housing provider in Durham, owning almost all the housing serving extremely low-income households, as well as managing over 2,500 Housing Choice (Section 8) vouchers that serve extremely low-income households. It is the City’s largest partner providing affordable housing for residents with the lowest incomes.

8. How does the City work with DHA to create and maintain affordable housing options in Durham?

DHA is an important partner for improving and expanding affordable rental housing. The public housing that DHA owns represents the majority of the affordable housing in Durham for extremely low-income households. Because of shortfalls in federal funding over decades, public housing in Durham and nationally faces an enormous backlog of capital investment, leaving many public housing residents living in substandard and functionally obsolete units. To address this challenge, the Durham Housing Authority developed the DHA Downtown and Neighborhood Plan (DDNP) in partnership with community stakeholders, the City, and County to guide the redevelopment of the first phase of public housing properties as mixed-income communities, preserving the extremely affordable public housing and adding affordable and market-rate housing. The City’s commitment is currently directed to the DHA development plans for: JJ Henderson, 519 East Main/Liberty, Oldham, Forest Hill Heights, and a significant addition of residential and mixed-use units at the DHA office site.

9. What is the DHA Downtown Neighborhood Plan and what is its role in affordable housing?

The DHA Downtown and Neighborhood Plan lays out a 10-year strategy for nearly 50 acres in central Durham (including six DHA properties and two City-owned properties) resulting in 2,500 new units. The City’s multi-year investment in the DDNP from the Forever Home, Durham program is $58.9 million and currently allocated for DHA’s first set of projects: JJ Henderson, 519 East Main/Liberty, Oldham, Forest Hill Heights, and a significant addition of residential and mixed-use units at the DHA office site and County Criminal Justice Center.

10. What will happen to the residents living at DHA properties that are slated for redevelopment?

All DHA residents who remain in good standing have a right to return to a redevelopment unit that meets their needs. If a resident needs to be relocated during construction, DHA will pay for all relocation costs.

11. How did the City decide which activities are included in the Forever Home, Durham Program?

The Forever Home, Durham program was developed based on analysis of data about housing needs in Durham and consultations with elected officials, affordable housing developers, homeless service providers, and community residents.

12. How does the City decide which activities to work on when?

The City is committed to implementing all of the activities laid out in the Forever Home, Durham program. As part of Durham’s annual budget cycle, the City determines the activities to be carried out in the coming year based on an analysis of funding availability, organizational capacity and community needs. As conditions evolve, the allocation of funds and services will be directed as needed to provide the best possible outcomes over time.

13. What else is the City doing beyond the programs funded by Forever Home, Durham?

Forever Home, Durham and its investments in affordable housing and housing-related assistance is part of the City’s overall commitment to serving low-to-moderate income households and communities. The City actively supports other vital initiatives including job training, business assistance, recreation programs and infrastructure improvements. The goal is to have a measurable, positive impact both in the near term and over time. 

14. How will the City track the money being spent as part of this program?

The City will be producing spending reports on a quarterly basis. Click here to access the City’s budget. 

15. Was this program impacted by COVID-19?

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on both the Community Development Department and external partners, including the need to deploy federal emergency funding with short spending timelines, affected the implementation of the Forever Home, Durham program. The COVID-19 response included funds for emergency rental assistance, developing and supporting non-congregate housing options, service delivery for residents experiencing homelessness, and operating funding for nonprofit housing partners to preserve essential affordable housing development capacity. Progress continued on Forever Home, Durham goals during this period and Community Development Department has adjusted the timeline for implementation by a year, through FY25.

16. How does the City track activities that count toward Forever Home, Durham goals and progress?

Housing Units: All units associated with City-funded contracts executed on or after July 1, 2019, which is the beginning of the first City fiscal year of the Forever Home, Durham program, count toward the goals. For construction projects, final funding commitments will be made no later than FY25, with construction completion occurring in some cases after FY25. Services: All services delivered on or after July 1, 2019 count toward the goals. Services include programs such as eviction diversion, property tax assistance, minor repair and down payment assistance, and the goals will be achieved by the end of FY25.

17. How will the funds for Forever Home, Durham be collected and authorized?

City Council will determine the timing and amount of tax rate increases for the Affordable Housing Bond debt service annually. In 2021, City Council approved the property tax rate increase of 1.38 cents per $100 of assessed property value. The method by which the City commits the funds: City Council will approve annual budgets for the expenditure of bond funds and existing housing funds as part of the City budget process. In addition, City Council will approve the actual expenditure of City funds on a project-by-project basis, as part of the Council’s review and approvals of proposed contracts.

18. How does Forever Home, Durham support jobs?

Based on economic models of housing development, Forever Home, Durham investments will support nearly 3,000 jobs as a result of construction, operations, and resident spending over the life of the housing created. The program will also create $130 million in contracting opportunities for minority and women-owned enterprises (MWBEs).

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Lead in Drinking Water

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1. Should Durham's water customers be concerned about lead in the drinking water?

No. There is no detectable lead in the drinking water leaving Durham's two treatment plants. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires triennial sampling, and in the City’s most recent sampling cycle (conducted July-September 2022), all of the tested properties were – with the exception of one sample – less than the detection level of 0.003 milligrams per liter (mg/l). The one sample in which lead was detected was at the 0.003 mg/l detection level. The results are all well below the EPA’s maximum level allowed of 0.015 milligrams of lead per liter of water (mg/L), or 15 parts per billion (ppb). 

You can find more information about Durham’s most recent water quality testing results in the Annual Water Quality Report.

2. How could lead get into the drinking water?

Lead is a common and naturally occurring metal that is found throughout the environment. However, it is rare to find lead in surface water supplies such as lakes and rivers. If lead is detected in drinking water, it is primarily due to of corrosion in lead pipes that connect some older homes (pre-1986) to the water system and/or household plumbing such as brass or chrome plated brass faucets that contain lead.

3. How would I know if my household plumbing was a problem?

Age is the primary factor to consider. In older homes and homes that have copper pipes with lead solder, lead pipes, and/or lead service lines, lead can dissolve into tap water when the water is allowed to stand in lead pipes (or plumbing systems containing lead) for several hours or overnight. Lead piping is likely to be found only in homes built before 1930. Copper piping eventually replaced lead piping, but lead-based solder was still used to join copper pipes until it was banned by North Carolina in 1985. The EPA has determined that houses built between 1983 and 1985 which meet the above conditions, may have an elevated risk of lead in drinking water.

4. What can I do to minimize the risk to me and my family?

If your home does not meet the above criteria, your chance of lead exposure from drinking water is extremely low. However, there are several tips you can follow to further reduce or even eliminate the chance. 

• If a faucet has gone unused for more than six hours, flush it by running cold water from the tap for one to two minutes before using it for drinking or cooking. Faucets should be flushed individually. You can conserve water by capturing that initial running water for non-consumable purposes, such as watering plants, washing dishes, or flushing the toilet. Another way to save time and water is to fill a pitcher once the faucet has been flushed, and put it in your refrigerator for quick access to cold, clean water. Never cook with or drink water from the hot water tap. Hot water dissolves lead faster than cold water. If you need hot water, draw cold water from the tap and heat it on the stove or in the microwave. 
• Never use hot tap water to make baby formula or cereal. 
• Periodically remove loose debris from plumbing materials by removing faucet strainers/aerators from all taps and running the water for three to five minutes.

5. What is Durham doing to eliminate/reduce exposure to lead in our drinking water?

The City adds a corrosion inhibitor into the drinking water at its two treatment plants. This corrosion control program has been in place since the 1970s, and has effectively minimized the corrosion of lead and copper household pipes.

6. Have the City's actions eliminated my risk/exposure to lead and copper?

Not completely. As stated in #3, lead poses a bigger health hazard in older homes and those that still have lead-based solder in place. Also, lead can dissolve into the tap water when water stands unused in lead pipes (or plumbing systems containing lead) for several hours or overnight.

7. What should I do if I suspect lead poisoning?

Lead exposure poses a greater health risk to children, pregnant and nursing women. Kids younger than six are eligible for a free blood lead screening by the Durham County Department of Public Health. Please contact the department at 919-560-7600 to arrange a test.

8. What if I need more information or want my water tested?

If you are a City of Durham water customer, your home was built before 1986, and you are concerned there may be lead in your home's plumbing, you can request to have your water tested for lead. 

To request a free sample kit, contact Durham One Call at 919-560-1200.

After completing the necessary request form, you may then pick up your sample kit (available three business days after completing the form) at one of two locations: our Compliance Services Building at 6605 Farrington Road, or our Mist Lake Facility at 1600 Mist Lake Drive. Kits will be available for pick-up Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Customers should complete a request form and provide the required information so that appropriate labels and associated paperwork can be prepared and made ready. After collecting samples, customers should return them to either WRF as soon as possible for analysis.

For more information on lead in drinking water, visit 

For more information on lead in drinking water, visit the EPA’s Ground Water and Drinking Water website.

9. Who may I contact at the City if I still have questions about lead?

The City of Durham Department of Water Management is happy to provide additional information about lead and drinking water. Please contact the department at 919-560-4381 Monday through Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

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North Elizabeth Street Waterline Replacement

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1. Why is this work needed, what is included, how much will it cost, and how long will it take?

This project will replace deteriorating water lines that were installed in the 1930s and 1940s. Approximately 7,650 feet of water lines and 6,750 feet of sewers within the North Elizabeth Street area will be replaced. Also, existing water meter boxes will be upgraded to current standards. The project will be paid for by previously authorized capital improvement program (CIP) funds. Water line and sewer construction is anticipated to last approximately 18 months.

2. Will my business/property be impacted during the construction phase of this project?

Construction will not occur on private properties; however, there will be pedestrian, traffic, and noise impacts throughout the North Elizabeth Street area during construction. The city’s contractor will be required to maintain access to residences and businesses at all times, though on-street parking and pedestrian access may be obstructed due to the work area or traffic detours during construction.

All property owners will be notified in advance of construction near their property; this includes any planned water service disruptions. Sound levels near active construction areas are anticipated to range between 70 and 90 decibels. Due to traffic control constraints, it may be necessary to conduct some work in high-traffic areas during weekend hours.

3. Why will some construction take place on weekends?

Due to the many existing utilities located beneath the roads in the project area, the installation of the proposed waterline will require lane and/or road closures to expedite construction. In some portions of the project area, construction will take place during weekend hours in order to minimize traffic, pedestrian, and bus impacts. Weekend work will allow the contractor to complete work that requires road closures while minimizing the impacts to traffic and nearby businesses. Sound levels near active construction areas are anticipated to range between 70 and 90 decibels.

4. How will I know about detours, changes in traffic patterns, etc.?

In addition to other notifications, signage will inform and direct property owners, residents, and visitors in the North Elizabeth Street area regarding detours, changes in traffic patterns, and access issues throughout construction. Disturbed areas along roadways and sidewalks will be repaved, and lawns will be graded and reseeded at the end of the project.

5. Will my water service be affected by this project?

Once the project enters the construction phase, existing water meters in the project area will be reconnected to the newly installed waterlines. It is possible that customers will be without water for a short duration (typically a few hours) while this transition takes place. Property owners will be notified in advance regarding any planned service disruptions.

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Odd-Even Watering Schedule

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1. Do these restrictions apply to car washing or pressure washing?

The irrigation schedule does not apply to the washing of cars, houses, buildings, decks, etc.

2. Does this apply to rain water or reclaimed water?

No, the use of rain water, reclaimed water, and other non-potable sources for irrigation purposes is not restricted by this schedule.

3. How do you define hand-watering?

Hand-watering refers to the application of water for irrigation purposes through a hand-held hose or watering container. A person must be physically holding the hose or container. Watering by hand cannot occur unattended.

4. I would like to install new sod, but will need to water more frequently than this schedule will allow, can I apply for permission to irrigate outside of this schedule?

Yes, a special exemption license can be issued for the purpose of establishing a new landscape. To apply for the license, complete and submit our Temporary Outdoor Watering License application. Please apply for the license before you install any new landscaping and allow at least 5 business days for processing; submitting an application does not guarantee that a license will be granted.

5. What watering schedule should be followed for medians and common areas that do not have a traditional address?

Medians that do not have a traditional address should be watered according the even-address schedule. If a common area (non-median) falls along a side of the street that is associated with odd or even addresses, it should be watered according the relative schedule. If such a determination cannot be made, an even-address schedule should be followed. For example, a common area at the main entrance of a subdivision lies on the right side of the street. The homes on this side of the street all have even addresses. This common area should be watered on an even-address schedule.

6. I manage a complex with multiple addresses but just one irrigation system., how should we operate our system?

If an irrigation system that serves both odd and even addresses cannot be set to differentiate zones by address, your entire complex may be assigned a schedule to follow by the City of Durham. Please complete and submit our Irrigation Schedule Assignment Application to request to have your complex assigned to a schedule. Irrigation Schedule Assignment Application (PDF)

7. Why do we have to follow this schedule?

Landscape irrigation makes up a large portion of usage, particularly during the warmer months of the year. In fact, irrigation during summer months can increase demand on the treatment plants between 20% - 40%. By improving the efficiency of our irrigation practices, we can reduce consumption, save money, and preserve the city’s water supply.

By establishing a set schedule for our customers, the city can better manage the demand for irrigation, control peak demands, and ease the burden on our water supplies, treatment plants, and distribution system.

8. Do other municipalities have the same schedule?

Yes, this schedule is followed by our neighboring communities and water providers, including Apex, Cary, and the Orange Water and Sewer Authority. In fact, Durham worked with these utilities to develop common schedules to ensure uniformity and clarity for the Triangle region in regard to water irrigation efficiency requirements.

9. Am I required to water on all 3 days of the schedule?

No, you are not required to water all 3 days! Customers are allowed to water up to 3 days per week, but are encouraged to water less frequently, based on the needs of their landscape. Customers should adjust the frequency of watering (within the alternate-day schedule) based on what will keep their landscape thriving. In many cases, just once per week may be sufficient for established landscapes.

10. Do these restrictions replace the water shortage response restrictions?

No, these restrictions do not replace the water shortage response restrictions. When a water shortage is declared, the restrictions imposed by the Water Shortage Response Ordinance shall supersede this schedule.

11. If it rains on one of my scheduled watering days, can I water on another non-scheduled day?

No, watering may occur at your address only according the assigned schedule, regardless of weather conditions.

12. What type of enforcement of the ordinance will be occurring?

City staff will be patrolling for violations. Customers who violate the year-round water efficiency ordinance will receive an oral or written notice for the first violation. Repeat violations may lead to civil penalties of $100 for the second violation, $250 for the third and service termination for the fourth.

13. How can I report a violation if I see one?

Citizens who witness a violation can report it by using our online reporting form. Citizens can also call Durham One Call at 919-560-1200 to report a violation. The city takes all reports seriously and deploys staff to follow up on all reports of violations; however, formal notices of violations are not issued unless city staff witness the violation.

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Pay By Phone Billing

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1. How can I pay my City of Durham utility bill by phone?

Have your utility bill handy as you will need your 12-digit account number to ensure your payment is posted to the correct account. Dial Durham One Call at 919-560-1200 (press option 1). The interactive voice response system will walk you through the process. You can make a payment from your checking or savings account, or with a Visa, MasterCard or Discover credit card, or an e-check.

2. How much is the payment processing charge?

The city does not add any charge to your bill for this service - it’s free to you. Of course, your financial institution may assess fees based on the terms of your account. If you submit an e-check or credit card payment that is declined or reversed, the city will charge a $25 penalty to recover the charges it is assessed.

3. Can a customer service representative take my payment over the phone?

No, Call Center staff cannot take your payment. This protects your financial data, your bank account and credit card numbers and maintains compliance with stringent security regulations. A customer service representative will transfer you directly to the interactive voice response line after answering questions about your account or a payment plan.

4. How secure is the interactive voice response system?

The company providing the interactive voice response services meets all the current regulations and financial security standards (is Payment Card Industry compliant) and has an excellent track record.

5. How can I be sure my payment is received by the city?

You will receive a confirmation number from the interactive voice response system when your payment is accepted. Payments received before 7 p.m. are posted the next business day. Remember to write down that number for reference in the unlikely event that there is an issue with your payment.

6. Can I make a payment by phone if my account is turned off for non-payment?

Yes, you can, but please notify the city right away by calling 919-560-1200 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. so that staff can be dispatched to your residence or business as soon as practical to reconnect your service. Because the interactive voice response system does not post payments until the next business day, you must notify the city that you have paid to have your water turned on the same day.

7. Can I make a payment by phone if my account is still on but I have received a letter notifying me that it will be turned off today for non-payment?

Yes, you can, but since there is no real time posting of payments, please notify the city as soon as practical between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. at 919-560-1200 in the event that a city staff is en route to your home to shut off your water/sewer.

8. Will the $50 nonpayment service charge be waived if I pay by phone before my water is turned off?

The only way to be sure to avoid the $50 delinquency service fee is to make your payment prior to the date and time on the notice of delinquency letter you received. If you make your payment after the date and time on your disconnection notice, please follow the instructions in question 6 above about notifying the city of your payment. If city staff have already been notified to perform the disconnection, they might be able to be contacted en route to avoid interruption of your water service. However, once assessed, the fee will not be waived whether or not city staff have actually arrived at your premises.

9. Can I make a payment when I get an automatic reminder phone call from the city that my payment is late?

No, there is no way to transfer directly to the phone payment center. You will need to call 919-560-1200 option 1, go online at www.durhamnc.gov or deliver payment in person at 101 City Hall Plaza to make a payment.

10. Can I make a payment for a relative or roommate or can another person make a payment on my account?

Yes. The payee on the bank account or credit card does not have to be the same as the name on the utility account. Be sure to input the correct city utility account number to make sure the payment is credited/posted to the proper account.

11. Can I set up recurring payments using the interactive voice response?

No, not at this time. However, the city plans to implement additional payment options on the website in the next phase of this project.

12. How can I make a payment by phone if I can’t find my bill?

Call 919-560-1200 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Fridays, (excluding official city holidays) and a Durham One Call representative will be able to help you.

13. Do I have to pay the entire bill or can I pay a portion?

The interactive voice response will accept any amount of payment. However, if your bill is overdue and you do not pay the entire delinquent balance or if you are on a payment plan and do not pay the agreed-upon amount, you will need to call 919-560-1200 to speak with a utility account representative to avoid having your water service turned off for non-payment.

14. How can I cancel a payment if I’ve made a mistake or find out my spouse already paid online?

Call 919-560-1200 to speak with someone who can cancel a payment made prior to 7 p.m. that day. If the payment has already been processed, city staff will work with you to issue a credit or reverse the bank charge. You will be responsible for any fees assessed by your financial institution.

15. Why is the city offering payment by phone when the website already accepts credit cards?

This option has been requested by many customers for several reasons. Some customers do not have internet access. Others find it more convenient to pay by phone without having to log into a computer. Customers can also use e-checks over the phone whereas only credit cards can be used to pay on the website. However, the web payment options will be upgraded in the next few months to allow e-checks and recurring e-check and credit card payments.

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Pink Film

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1. What is the pink film on my surfaces?

A pink film or residue on bathroom and kitchen surfaces generally does not indicate a problem with water quality. In fact, the pink residue is likely a result of airborne bacteria present in the home that produce a pinkish or dark gray film on surfaces that are routinely moist such as toilet bowls, showerheads, sink drains, and tiles. Some people have reported that the pink residue appears in their pet’s water bowl and fortunately it has not caused harm to the pet and is easily cleaned off.

Many experts agree that the bacteria that causes this pink film is most likely Serratia marcesens, a bacteria which is found naturally in soil, food, and in animals. Serratia, which produce a characteristic red pigment, thrive on moisture, dust, and phosphates and need almost nothing to survive. Generally thought to be harmless, recently Serratia marcesens has been tied to urinary tract infections, wound infections, and pneumonia in some people.

2. When does this happen?

The pinkish film often appears during or after construction or remodeling, when dust and dirt containing Serratia bacteria are stirred up. Once the bacteria are airborne, they will seek a moist location where it can proliferate. Some people have reported that the pink residue only appears during certain times of the year, especially when their windows are left open for most of the day. This type of bacteria is present in a number of environments and wind can carry the airborne bacteria or stir up dust in which the bacteria are present.

The appearance of the pink residue can be intensified by the use of activated carbon filters, which remove chlorine from the water. The absence of the normal levels of chlorine in tap water allows Serratia to thrive. Because chlorine naturally dissipates from water that is allowed to collect on surfaces, Serratia may proliferate in these areas.

3. How do I get rid of the pink residue?

The best solution to this problem is to continually clean the involved surfaces to keep them free from bacteria. Chlorine-based compounds work best, but keep in mind that abrasive cleaners may scratch fixtures, making them more susceptible to bacterial growth. Chlorine bleach can be used periodically to disinfect the toilet and help to eliminate the occurrence of the pink residue. By keeping bathtubs and sinks wiped down and dry, the formation of pink residue can be avoided. Cleaning these surfaces with a solution that contains chlorine will also help to minimize the occurrence of pink residue.

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Police Department

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1. How do I hire an off-duty officer for my business or special event?

For information on hiring an off-duty officer, please visit the Secondary Employment page.

2. How large is the Durham Police Department?

The Durham Police Department has 548 sworn positions and 124 civilian positions.

3. How do I become a Durham Police officer?

For more information, please visit the Durham Police Department Recruiting page.

4. What should I do if I am in an automobile accident?

Our 1st concern is your health and safety. If you are involved in an accident, determine if anyone is hurt. If anyone is injured, call 911 and request an ambulance. Render aid to the injured if you are qualified to do so. Also, if anyone is injured, or the damage in the collision is greater than $1,000, then a police report is mandatory. If no one is hurt, or the damage is not greater than $1,000, then the two parties may settle any claims among themselves without legally being required to file a report with the police. If you decide to go this route, be absolutely sure that you do not need a police report, as the Durham Police Department does not investigate wrecks on a delayed basis.

If your vehicle is in the middle of a busy travel lane, and the damage is minimal and there are no injuries, it is best to move both vehicles out of the travel lanes. Although it is easier for the investigating officer if the vehicles are not moved prior to his arrival, there is a risk of further damage and injury when you remain in traffic.?

5. What is the procedure for reporting suspicious activity in my neighborhood without calling the police?

At any given time there are patrol officers on the street. However, they cannot be everywhere in the city at once. The Durham Police Department counts on the thousands of eyes of our citizens to alert us to unusual situations. Anytime someone calls, a dispatcher will take the information, ask questions, decide on what / whom to send, and the urgency of the call. We will respond to every call for service, though obviously, the less important calls may take some time to get to.

The Durham Police Department appreciates your calls and we rely on you to assist us by calling us whenever you see anything that is suspicious or unusual.

6. How do I get it back property of mine that was turned into the police department?

The department receives property in two different ways, evidence and found property. Property may be claimed from the Property and Evidence unit at 921 Holloway Street (District 1 Police Substation) by appointment during the following times:
1) Monday 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. by appointment
2) Tuesday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. by appointment
3) Wednesday 9 a.m. to noon by appointment
4) Thursday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. by appointment
5) Friday closed

Call 919-560-4442 to schedule this appointment. You must have a current and valid form of identification. You must show documentation of ownership to support your claim. Property turned in as evidence may only be claimed with a court order. A court order can only be obtained from the court after the case has a final disposition entered.

7. How do I get crime statistics for a neighborhood?

You can go to RAIDS crime mapping online for detailed crime information. RAIDS Online Map

8. How do I obtain a special events permit?

For more information, please visit the Special Events Permits page.

9. Should I install a burglar alarm on my home?

Having an alarm system is a matter of personal choice. Some people consider an alarm to be a deterrent to would-be thieves. Others feel that the alarm gives them added security when they are home or away. Alarm systems vary in cost, depending on what type of detection system is employed. Some components are readily available at home improvement centers for "do it yourself" installation.

Many licensed alarm companies are listed in the phone book. We recommend that alarm buyers get at least 2 bids for the work, ask for references, and make sure there is training provided to everyone who will use the alarm system. For more information regarding false alarms, please visit our False Alarm Program page.

10. How can I obtain a restraining order?

Restraining orders or domestic violence orders are a function of the court system. You can find out more information by calling the Durham County Clerk of Court at 919-564-7070. Also, our Domestic Violence Unit may be able to provide advice. They can be reached at 919-560-4440.

11. How can I get fingerprinted for a job application?

Presently the Forensic Services Unit does not provide fingerprinting services to the general public. The exceptions to this are police personnel, City of Durham requests and Guardian Ad Litem Representatives. Appointments must be made in advance with the unit secretary at 919-560-4432. If you are in need of the service and do not qualify under the exceptions above, you may contact the following agencies:

Durham County Sheriff’s Office - 919-560-0905
State Bureau of Investigation, Raleigh - 919-662-4500
City/County Bureau of Identification, Raleigh - 919-856-6300

12. How do I get a permit to purchase a pistol? How do I get a concealed weapons permit?

You must apply to the Durham County Sheriff's Office in the Durham County Courthouse at 201 East Main Street, 919-560-0905. The police department does not have anything to do with this.

13. How do I get a copy of a police report or an accident report?

You must come to the Records Unit at Police Headquarters at 602 East Main Street. Reports are available on weekdays between 7:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. You can also call the Records Unit at 919-560-4423 to get a copy of a report faxed to you.

14. Do you have Neighborhood Watch programs?

The Durham Police Department does have Neighborhood Watch programs. For more information, please visit the Residential Programs page.

15. I have a warrant on me. How do I get it cleared up?

Go to the Durham County Magistrate's Office at the Durham County Jail at 219 South Mangum Street. The public entrance is on the Mangum Street side. You can park for free in the gravel lot across the street from the public entrance between Vivian and Pettigrew Streets. If you have no transportation to the Magistrate's Office, you can call 911 and an officer will be dispatched to your location to arrest you and take you to the Magistrate's Office to serve the warrant.

16. I have a criminal summons on me. How do I get it cleared up?

Call 911 and an officer will be dispatched to your location to serve the criminal summons on you. You will not be arrested due to a summons. The officer has to give you your copy of the summons and also will ask you some questions so he or she can fill out a report.

17. How do I take out a warrant on someone?

For more information regarding warrants, please visit our . Situational Warrants page

18. What do I do if my vehicle has been towed? Who do I contact if I have a towing complaint or issue?

If your vehicle has been towed, call the Durham Police Department front desk officer at 919-560-4427. If we towed your vehicle, we can look it up in the tow log and give you the tow business information. You will need a current registration and photo ID to show proof of ownership. Vehicles will only be released to registered owners unless circumstances prevent this, at which time you need to contact the towing inspector to make other arrangements. If you have a towing complaint, contact the towing inspector, Officer Wilkinson, at 919-560-4322, ext. 29173. For more information, view our

Towing FAQs (PDF).

19. How do I apply for an ABC permit?

Contact Durham Police Officer Wilkinson at 919-560-4322, ext. 29173. For information, please view our

ABC Permit FAQs (PDF).

20. How can I find bond information after you have arrested someone?

When a Durham police officer arrests someone, he or she may be taken to headquarters or to a police substation for questioning and processing. After any questioning is completed, they will be transported to the Durham County Jail, where a magistrate will determine the conditions of their release. Once the magistrate sets a bond, they will either be let go (unsecured bond or written promise to appear) or kept in the Durham County Jail (secured bond, cash bond, no bond.) Once they are in the jail, they are in the custody of the Durham County Sheriff's Office. The Durham Police Department does not have prisoner information.

You may call the Durham County Sheriff's Office intake office at 919-560-0772 for inmate information. You may also call the magistrate on duty at 919-560-6826.

Sometimes people are arrested due to out-of-area warrants. They are normally held in the Durham County Jail until the agency that wants them can arrange to pick them up and transport them back to where they are wanted. Also, sometimes the Durham Police Department will arrest someone on federal charges. These prisoners are sometimes taken directly into federal custody.

21. What can I do about stray dogs and cats and barking dogs?

The Durham County Animal Control Department takes care of all animal services in both the City and County. They can be reached at 919-560-0630 during business hours. After hours, either leave a message or call 911 if there is an emergency such as a dog bite or an injured animal. If your dog or cat has been impounded, call the Durham County Animal Shelter at 919-560-0640.

22. What is Partners Against Crime (PAC)?

The Partners Against Crime program promotes collaboration among police officers, Durham residents, and city and county government officials to find sustainable solutions to community crime problems and quality of life issues. It is a community based volunteer organization that promotes and executes safety strategies to prevent crime at the neighborhood level. For more information, please visit the PAC page.

23. What is CrimeStoppers and how does it work?

CrimeStoppers is a program that involves police, media and citizens in the fight against crime. Durham CrimeStoppers includes crimes investigated by the Durham Police Department, Durham County Sheriff’s Office, Duke University Police Department, North Carolina Central University Police Department and other local law enforcement agencies. CrimeStoppers pays cash rewards for information leading to arrests in felony cases and callers never have to identify themselves. To leave a tip for CrimeStoppers, call 919-683-1200 or visit the CrimeStoppers page.

24. Can the police open my car if I have locked my keys inside?

Durham police officers are no longer allowed to open locked cars as a courtesy, due to the possibility of damaging the electric components found in the doors of newer cars. If there is an emergency, such as a child locked in the vehicle, an officer may open the car by breaking a window. If it is not an emergency, we suggest that you call a locksmith. Durham police officers do not carry "Slim Jims" in their cars for residents to borrow.

25. Can I make a police report at any time of day and do I need to make an appointment?

The Durham Police Department can take a police report at any time of the day or night. Remember, however, that the chances of us solving a crime go down substantially if you wait a long time to report a crime. If you want us to be able to help you, please report any crime as soon as you are aware of it.

26. Can I make a police report over the telephone or does a police officer have to come to my house?

When you call 911 to report a crime, the 911 call takers determine whether a call can be handled by our Telephone Response Unit. Examples of calls like this would be police advice calls and stolen items where there is no crime scene to process.

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

No. You can report someone missing as soon as you realize that they are missing. It is helpful to report missing children and elderly persons as soon as possible, so that we can get a search organized.

28. Someone has abandoned a junk car on the street near my house. Can the police get rid of it?

The Durham Police Department can only tow abandoned vehicles that are on the public streets or highways of our city. If the vehicle is a danger to motorists (i.e. left in the roadway) then we can tow it immediately. If it is parked out of the travel lane, we have to tag the car and send the owner a notice to move the car. If it is not moved in 7 days, we will then tow it. 

• If the vehicle is within City limits on a public street, please contact Durham Emergency Communications at 919-560-4600 for officer dispatch. Or, submit online by selecting the Streets and Sidewalks > Abandoned Vehicle option.
• If the vehicle is on your property, contact a towing company. They will remove the vehicle at no cost to you.

29. Where can I learn more about the Citizens Police Academy?

The Durham Police Department holds an annual bilingual (English/Spanish) Citizens Police Academy. For more information, please visit the citizens police academy page.

30. How do I find out more about National Night Out?

National Night Out is celebrated every year on the 1st Tuesday in August. Find out more about Durham’s award-winning National Night Out program by visiting the NNO page.

31. I do not have any transportation and have to get somewhere. Can a police officer give me a ride?

The Durham Police Department does not provide rides to the public, unless they are under arrest or detention. We suggest that you contact the Durham Area Transit Authority or a local taxi company.

32. I have left my spouse and am living elsewhere but I need to get my clothing and other items. Can the police help me?

We can stand by while you attempt to pick up a change of clothes, the tools of your trade, and any medicines that you may need. We will not stand by for lengthy periods of time while you attempt to remove furniture or other items. The custody of any items is a civil matter, and we cannot make 1 party give anything to the other party. The pickup of any items other than what was mentioned above must be done in agreement with the other party.

33. I need to get a message to someone that does not have a telephone. Can the Police Department go to the person's home and deliver the message?

We can only deliver emergency messages, such as death notifications, and not routine messages.

34. My family and I are going on vacation. Can the police keep an eye on our home while we are gone?

Call the district substation where you live and request a house check. We will attempt to keep any eye on your property as much as possible.

35. We have a problem with speeders in our neighborhood. What can I do about it?

Contact Durham 1 Call at 919-560-1200 and speak to a customer service representative who will submit your concern to the appropriate department. Durham 1 Call also provides an on-line service request form that allows citizens to request services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

36. What happens to unclaimed property?

The Police Department no longer holds property auctions. Released unclaimed or seized property that has a judge's order is typically sold through the PropertyRoom website.

37. I have been charged with a traffic infraction or a crime. Can I reschedule the court appearance date?

The Durham County Clerk of Superior Court schedules all court dates. Contact them at 919-564-7100 for information on doing this.

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Police Recruiting FAQs

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1. How large is the Durham Police Department?

The Durham Police Department has 548 sworn positions and 124 civilian positions.

2. Are you hiring lateral applicants at this time?

Yes. Sworn law enforcement officer’s salary range is from $46,998-$62,982 

3. I am BLET (Basic Law Enforcement Training) certified. Will I be required to attend the entire academy?

No. As long as your certification is currently active. 

4. When is your next academy?

There are two police academies a year. Typical start times for BLET Academies are February and August 

5. How large is your department?

We have over 450 sworn police officers. 

6. Do you hire out- of-state candidates?

Yes

7. Is there a residency requirement?

No. There is a relocation incentive for those who move within the city limits. 

8. How long does the hiring process take?

The hiring process typically takes two to six months. 

9. How many people are you hiring for your next academy?

The number of applicants is determined based on the present vacancy levels. 

10. Do I have to attend an open house informational session?

Open Houses are virtual and found on the recruiting website. 

11. Does my packet need to be complete on the day that I report for testing?

No

12. Is there an age requirement/cutoff?

All recruits must be 20 years of age by the completion of the BLET Academy. There is not a maximum age. 

13. Is the academy paid training?

Yes. You are paid from the first date of employment. 

14. Would I have a take home car?

The City of Durham has a take home car program. All patrol officers who live within the city limits qualify. Ask a recruiter for more details. 

15. Do I have to work patrol/street duty or can I go to a specialized unit once I graduate from the academy?

All recruits are assigned to the Uniform Patrol Division upon graduating from the academy. Uniform patrol officers work rotating 12-hour shifts in one of our five districts. Officers are eligible to apply to specialized units and promotions Officers with a minimum of twenty-four (24) months of continuous service as a regular sworn officer with the Durham Police Department, calculated from the date of release from the PTO program. 

16. What records are required and how do I obtain copies?

Certified copies of your driving record and criminal records checks from all counties that you have lived in since the age of 18. This includes out-of-state records. Driving records may be obtained from the Department of Motor Vehicles of each state a driver’s license has been held. This includes North Carolina. Criminal records checks can be obtained from the Clerk of Courts office of each county you have resided in or from the state police of each state you have resided in since the age of 18. This includes military base assignment locations in the continental United States. Certified copy of dispositions of all criminal and traffic charges issued to you or against you. NOTE: Some states require the individual to make the request from each county they have resided in while other states have agencies that can run a statewide criminal/civil check. 

17. Will you accept copies of any documents that I have to pay for?

We must have all original documents. 

18. Can I do a ride along with an officer?

Applicants are eligible for a ride along once they are entered into the background investigation phase of the hiring process 

19. Do I have to stay overnight at the academy?

No, recruits go home every night. 

20. What are the Durham Police Department’s policies on tattoos, hairstyles, beards and jewelry?

Tattoos, body art or branding which is profane; depicts violence or harm; is sexually explicit or which portrays nudity; indicates an affiliation with a criminal street gang or any hate group, organization or association; would reasonably be considered prejudicial to a particular race, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or national origin; covers hands/fingers, or neck; or appears on the face, ears or scalp; 

Hairstyles (Male) – Hair on top of the head shall be neatly groomed. The length and/or bulk of the hair will not be excessive or present a ragged or extreme appearance. Hair, when combed, may cover no more than the top half of the ears and may extend down to the shirt collar, but shall not cover any part of the shirt collar. In all cases, the bulk or length of the hair will not interfere with the normal wear of the uniform hat. Sideburns (worn without a beard) shall not extend below the earlobe and shall at no point be more than 1-1/2 inches wide. Side burns shall not exceed 1/2 inch in bulk, and shall not flare, and shall be trimmed horizontally across the bottom. Edges must be clearly defined. Mustaches shall be neatly trimmed and shall not exceed more than one half inch beyond the corners of the mouth or extend more than 1/4 inch below the corners of the mouth. Mustaches shall not cover any part of the upper lip. Sworn and non-sworn personnel are permitted to wear a goatee or beard that is maintained at a length and pattern so as not to detract from the officer’s professional appearance. Permission to wear beards, mustaches, and goatees may be withdrawn by the Chief, at any time. Facial hair shall be neat, trimmed and maintained at a length not to exceed 1/2 inch. Beards must be trimmed above and below and shall not be permitted below the Adam’s apple on the neck. In the event of a civil emergency or standby status where there is a possibility of gas deployment officers will, at the Incident Commander’s discretion, report clean shaven. Officers will report clean shaven for annual fit testing. Sworn personnel working in undercover assignments, or specialized assignments requiring facial hair not otherwise authorized by this policy, shall be exempt from these restrictions at the discretion of the Division Commander, and the Chief. Edges must be clearly defined. Hair, beard and/or mustache will not give the appearance of being ragged, unkempt, or extreme in appearance and must permit the proper wearing of a hat. Hairstyles (Female) - Hair may not fall below the bottom of the shirt collar. Jewelry - The following items only are authorized:  One wristwatch;  Two finger rings of choice;  Medical identification bracelet/necklace 

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Public Records Request FAQs

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1. Public Records Definition

North Carolina General Statute (NCGS) § 132-1(a) defines public record(s) as “all documents, papers, letters, maps, books, photographs, films, sound recordings, magnetic or other tapes, electronic data-processing records, artifacts, or other documentary material, regardless of physical form or characteristics, made or received pursuant to law or ordinance in connection with the transaction of public business by any agency of North Carolina government or its subdivisions. Agency of North Carolina government or its subdivisions shall mean and include every public office, public officer or official (State or local, elected or appointed), institution, board, commission, bureau, council, department, authority or other unit of government of the State or of any county, unit, special district, or other political subdivision of government.” 

2. What records are exempt from the Public Records Law?

All records maintained by the City of Durham are public unless they are exempt from disclosure under the NC Public Records Law.  If a records request is denied, the City will cite the appropriate law that allows the City to withhold the record. 

Exempted records include but are not limited to: 

• Confidential communications from an attorney to a client within the scope of the attorney-client relationship as defined in NCGS § 132-1.1. 
• Criminal investigation records and records of criminal intelligence information, as provided in NCGS § 132-1.4 (active and closed investigations). 
• Sensitive public security information, including specific details of public security plans and arrangements, detailed plans and drawings of public buildings and infrastructure facilities, and certain plans to prevent and respond to terrorist activity, as provided in NCGS § 132-1.7 and technology security information. 
• Records of minors per NCGS § 132-1-4, 132-1.12 and 7B-2901. 
• All information contained in City employees’ personnel files maintained by the City is confidential in accordance with NCGS § 160A-168, except information specified to be a matter of public record, such as name, age, dates of employment, current position title, current compensation.  These rules apply to personnel information for applicants, current employees and former employees. 
• Social security numbers and personal “identifying information” is confidential and unlawful to disclose to the public. In addition to social security numbers, “personal identifying information” includes: employer taxpayer identification numbers; drivers’ license numbers, passport numbers; checking, savings, credit and debit account numbers; personal identification code (PIN) numbers used to access financial resources; digital signatures; and other numbers or information that can be used to access a person’s financial resources; biometric data; fingerprints; and passwords; all as provided in NCGS § 132-1.10, NCGS § 75-61 and NCGS § 14-113.20. 
• Trade secrets and electronic payment account numbers are protected as set forth in NCGS § 132-1.2. (Note that to protect a “trade secret” detailed requirements must be met.) 
• The seal of an architect, engineer or land surveyor when that seal has been submitted for project approval under Part 5 of Article 19, Chapter 160A (Building Inspections) as set forth in NCGS § 132-1.2. 
• Certain economic development incentives are temporarily protected, but the City must make certain prior disclosures to applicants, as provided in NCGS § 132-1.11 and NCGS § 132-6(d). 
• Closed session meeting minutes that are deemed protected under NCGS § 143-318.10(e).  
• Water & sewer customer billing information (GS 132-1.1 and GS132.1.2 (2). 

 

3. May I request to inspect a record rather than get a copy?

A requestor may ask to inspect City records. The City will notify the requestor once the records are available for inspection and make them available at a date and time mutually agreed upon by the requestor and the City.  The appointment to inspect the record may need to be broken into intervals, as not to interfere with daily operations of a department. 

4. What information should I provide to help the City fulfill my request?

All requests for public records should contain the following information: 

• Date of the request 
• Requestor's name 
• Requestor’s mailing address – if requested information is to be mailed 
• Requestor’s e-mail address 
• Requestor’s cell or day-time phone number 
• A complete description of the record or records requested 
• The title and the date of the requested record or records, if known; and, whether the requestor would prefer to inspect the record or obtain a photocopy or electronic copy via email. (Charges may apply for photocopies, CDs or flash drives. The requestor will be notified of the cost prior to fulfilment of the request.) 

 

5. How much does it cost to obtain public records?

Most records are provided free of charge. However, requesters will be notified in advance of any charges. The City of Durham may make reasonable charges not to exceed its actual cost incurred in accessing, duplicating, supplying, or searching for the requested records. You may refer to the City of Durham Fee Schedule, chapter 10, Part 10-101 (Fees for Providing Copies of Public Records). 

6. How long should I expect to wait to have my request fulfilled?

The City of Durham is committed to an open and transparent government. As a rule, we respond to all requests for information as quickly as possible and strive to communicate a realistic time frame. It may not always be possible to fill requests right away if the requests span various departments and/or if they need to be reviewed to see if they contain confidential or restricted information. 

Questions, please contact the Communications Department at (919) 560-4123 or [email protected]. 

 

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Reclaimed Water

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1. What is reclaimed water?

Reclaimed water is highly treated wastewater produced through advanced treatment processes that removes solids and disinfect potential pathogens. The City of Durham’s reclaimed water meets all state requirements for use of reclaimed water for beneficial uses as outlined in our permit.

2. What is the benefit of using reclaimed water?

Reclaimed water provides a safe alternate water source for many non-domestic uses such as irrigation and reduces demand on the City’s drinking or “potable” water sources.

3. How is reclaimed water processed?

The wastewater treatment and disinfection process requires four steps:

• Step 1: Remove large solid materials. 
• Step 2: “Good” microorganisms break down smaller solids. 
• Step 3: Remove undesirable compounds and tiny suspended particles. 
• Step 4: Add chlorine to get rid of disease causing organisms.

4. Is reclaimed water safe?

YES. Durham meets the highest standards set by the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Neighboring systems in Town of Cary, City of Raleigh and Orange Water and Sewer Authority have safely operated reclaimed water systems for several years with no documented public health issues.

5. How can reclaimed water be used?

The level of treatment of reclaimed water makes it acceptable for the following uses: 

• Irrigation of public and private landscapes and turf 
• Dust control for construction 
• Soil compaction for construction 
• Non-potable processes such as concrete production and cooling water 
• Industrial and commercial toilet flush and fire prevention systems where there are separate, non-potable plumbing lines 
• Decorative ponds and fountains 
• Street sweeping (not street cleaning) 
• Vehicle washing 
• Sewer cleaning (not washing) 
• Firefighting (users must meet Public Water Supply requirements) 
• Make-up water for brine slurry (applied to roads to prevent freezing) 
• Make-up water for preparation of pesticide solutions

6. Are there any uses of reclaimed water that are not allowed?

Yes, the degree of treatment required for the use of reclaimed water makes it unsuitable for the following purposes: 

• Drinking 
• Bathing
• Any interconnection with drinking water lines. 
• Recreational use involving body contact (i.e. swimming pools or outdoor showers). 
• Watering vegetables or other edible crops 
• Run off into or filling of swimming pools

7. How can I get reclaimed water?

Reclaimed water is available from the Bulk Fill station at the North Durham Water Reclamation Facility at 1900 E. Club Blvd. Please note that only individuals who are certified to receive and haul reclaimed water use reclaimed water. Please contact the North Durham Water Reclamation Facility at 919-560-4384 or go to the City’s reclaimed water web page for more information on becoming certified.

8. What is the cost for reclaimed water?

The City of Durham provides reclaimed water from the bulk fill station at the North Durham Water Reclamation facility at NO cost to certified users.

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Recycling

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1. Who is eligible for curbside recycling collections in Durham?

The City services residential addresses in the City limits of Durham. This is generally any dwelling that contains four or fewer contiguous units, so most apartments and many townhome communities are not eligible for our service. If you are provided with a blue City of Durham rollout cart, you are one of our customers.

See the FAQ's in the Solid Waste – Residential Garbage and Recycling Curbside Collection section for collection specific information about recycling.

2. What happens to recyclables I put in my blue cart?

The City of Durham contracts with Sonoco Recycling in Raleigh to process all recyclables. Most local municipalities and counties either use Sonoco or Recycle America. We collect the contents of your blue cart curbside, deliver them to the City’s Transfer Station on E. Club Blvd, where it is all loaded into trailers and delivered to Sonoco for processing (sorting, and removal of unacceptable items). Sonoco has a combination of machines and people sorting the recyclables, and once sorted, they are bundled and sold to be reused/recycled. This video takes you on a tour of Sonoco’s facility: https://youtu.be/zN9BYsnVwHM

3. I heard all recycling is now going to the landfill. Is that true?

No. These rumors pop up from time to time on a neighborhood listserv or Reddit, and no part of it is true. All recyclable items that are collected are recycled. They are delivered to our recycling processor, Sonoco, who sorts, bundles and sells the recyclables to be recycled. Unfortunately, contamination is an issue though. Well-meaning residents engage in wish-cycling (throwing items in the recycling that they hope are recyclable, but that aren't). Those items have to be sorted out and that trash is then sent to the landfill at extra cost. This is why it is so important to only put recyclables in the recycling. 

4. Some communities aren't recycling anymore. Will this happen in Durham?

Durham’s City Council reaffirmed its commitment to recycling by continuing to approve contracts with Sonoco despite the financial challenges that are sometimes presented. Recycling markets can fluctuate quite a bit. Some years the City makes hundreds of thousands of dollars in revenues from recyclables. Other years, it can cost the City nearly a million dollars to have them processed. Many communities that cut recycling programs are now re-evaluating as those decisions tended to be short-sighted. There are other environmental and social factors that are part of the equation, so Durham proudly continues its robust recycling program.

5. How can I be a better recycler?

Recycling can be really easy. You can, but do not have to get caught up in the granular details of what is recyclable. It's better to err on the side of not including contamination as that can actually lead to fewer items being ultimately recycled as whole loads can be spoiled at times by contaminants. Stick with what you know -- bottles, cans, milk jugs, paper and cardboard, and you'll be an extremely effective recycler!

6. What do Durham residents recycle the most?

Recycling is measured by weight. The recycling stream coming from Durham basically breaks down as follows:

• Cardboard – 27.1%
• Glass – 22.1%
• Mixed Paper – 21.3%
• Contamination (non-recyclable items placed in the blue carts) – 19.5%
• PET (eg. Plastic drink bottles)– 4.5%
• Steel – 1.5%
• Aluminum – 1.4%
• HDPE Color (eg. Shampoo bottles) – 1.2%
• HDPE Natural (eg. Milk jugs) – 0.8%
• Other Recyclable Plastics (eg. Some clamshell containers) – 0.6%

7. What items are worth the most?

Recyclables are commodities, and those values fluctuate over time depending upon the markets. As you can imagine, cardboard was in high demand during the pandemic when people were ordering deliveries instead of venturing out. It became quite valuable for a while. Aluminum is pretty consistently valuable. On the other hand, glass is in much less demand and presents other challenges to recyling processors, so generally costs money to have it recycled. 

8. Can you start collecting recycling every week instead of every two weeks?

This question also sometimes comes in with the idea to move trash to every other week and do recycling every week. There are a few reasons that isn't advisable at the moment, but we keep performance measures and evaluate all programs continually. We can promise that the idea of garbage collection every other week sounds much better than it actually is, especially in the summer months. Currently, Durham residents produce an average of about 1,500 pounds of garbage per household annually, and about 400 pounds of recycling annually. Residents can recycle all they want as we will provide up to 4 recycling carts for free. It would cost a significant amount to buy additional trucks and hire additional personnel and would provide little to no return. The environmental harm from running the additional vehicles would far outweigh any slight incremental environmental benefits that would be realized from higher collection frequencies. Residents can help by ensuring that boxes are broken down and flattened, plastic bottles, jugs and milk cartons are flattened and so on, to make best use of the space in their recycling carts.

9. Why should businesses recycle?

Recycling in commercial enterprises is important because commercial waste makes up about 40% of total municipal solid waste. Business and industry operations generate recyclable materials in many areas, such as offices, cafeterias, supply stores, shipping or warehouse units, print shops, and production areas. Many businesses are already enthusiastically collecting recyclables in high-profile programs, while others are just beginning. Collecting recyclables costs money, but it also saves money by reducing the volume of waste that have to be disposed.

10. How can my business start a recycling program?

This could be as simple as getting a few recycling containers with instructions for employees. Although the City does not collect commercial recycling, there are companies in Durham that do. A simple web search will turn up some companies that you can explore contracting with to take your recycling. You may also obtain assistance from the State’s Department of Environmental Quality at: NC DEQ: NC DEQ

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Sanitary Sewer Evaluation Study Project

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1. What is smoke testing?

Smoke testing is a routinely used procedure during which smoke is forced into a gravity sewer line using a fan or blower at low pressure. If there are any holes, cracks or other defects in the sewer line, smoke will seep through and visually identify the problem area.

2. Is the smoke toxic?

The smoke that is introduced is non-toxic to humans and animals. It does have a slight odor and is white to gray in color but it will not create stains. Smoke used in smoke testing is not a fire hazard. If you do come into contact with the smoke, please wash affected areas with soap and water.

3. As a property owner, is there anything I need to do before smoke testing is performed in my neighborhood?

It is advisable to pour a gallon of water into sinks, tubs and floor drains that are not used every day. This will fill certain pipes in your plumbing which will prevent smoke from entering the building.

4. What is sewer cleaning?

Cleaning of the sanitary sewer system is a preventative maintenance requirement by the state regulatory agency. Jet trucks are the most common method of sewer cleaning and are expected to be utilized during this project. A jet truck utilizes pressurized water to clean sewer pipes by pulling a large specialized water hose through the sewer.

5. Will the cleaning affect me?

There will be no disruptions to your sewer service during the cleaning. However, the City of Durham recommends that residents leave their toilet seats down when not being used in the improbable event back pressure from the cleaning causes toilets to bubble. Jet trucks are noisy and may be noticeable to nearby residents.

6. What is closed circuit television and will it affect me?

Closed circuit television (CCTV) video inspection is accomplished by a remote controlled apparatus being pulled or driven through a sanitary sewer pipe with a recording video camera. There will be no service interruptions during the CCTV inspection process.

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Solid Waste - Bulky Item Curbside Collection

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1. How do I request a bulky item pickup?

Bulky items are picked up by request only and can be scheduled here. If you have any difficulty using the scheduling system, you can email us at [email protected] or call 919-560-1200.

2. How am I supposed to set out bulky items?

Safe Placement Requirements:

Items are picked up mechanically using a special "boom truck". Please follow these guidelines for safe collection:

• DO NOT place items for collection under low hanging wires or tree limbs.
• DO NOT cover or obstruct water meters, fire hydrants, manholes, telephone boxes, etc. with items or brush to be collected.
• DO NOT place items near or on top of underground sprinklers, decorative stones, or other items that may be damaged during the collection process.
• DO NOT lean items against other objects.
• DO NOT place near a mailbox, parked car, fence, utility pole or anything else of value.

Preparation Guidelines:

• Appliances: All food and debris must be removed prior to collection. Remove or secure doors to eliminate potential hazards to children.
• Lawn equipment: Gasoline, oil and any other fluids must be fully removed before collection.

3. Do you have a list of prohibited bulky items?

There are certain items that are prohibited from curbside collection, including:

• Building materials
• Car parts
• Construction debris
• Dirt
• Food Scraps
• Glass / Mirrors
• Loose leaves
• Propane tanks
• Television sets
• Tires
• Tree stumps
• Wood / Lumber / Pallets

These items should be disposed of at the City's Waste Disposal and Recycling Center, 2115 East Club Boulevard.

4. I live in a townhouse community. What do I need to know about bulky item set out?

The City only provides curbside bulky item service to solid waste customers. If you have a City provided garbage cart, you are most likely an eligible customer. If your property has a dumpster or is collected by a private company, we do not provide bulky item pickup there. If you live in a townhome community that is serviced by the City, make sure bulky items are set out in an accessible place, clear of any obstructions and on the curb of a road that is large enough for our vehicles to navigate.

5. What is bulky brush collection?

Yard waste customers are entitled to two (2) free bulky brush pickups per year as part of their paid subscription service. Put in a request online or call 919-560-1200 to set up a bulky brush collection. Your bulky brush must not exceed 4 cubic yards, which is approximately equal to one average size pickup truck. Excess debris is subject to additional charges that must be approved by the customer before collection will be made. Learn more about yard waste service.

Non yard waste customers are charged for bulky brush pickups. After receiving your request, we will send someone to estimate the cost and get your approval before removing the brush.

6. How can I dispose of my Television?

Television collection is by request only and handled separately from bulky item requests. See details and make a request on our Television Collection webpage.

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Solid Waste - Drop-Off Facility

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1. Where is the City's solid waste drop off facility and when is it open?

The Waste Disposal and Recycling Center is located at 2115 E. Club Blvd. The hours of operation are: 

Monday - Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Saturday: 7:30 a.m. - noon

The facility is closed on most holidays.

2. What services are offered at the facility?

Commercial vehicles can deliver mixed solid waste to the transfer station for a per-ton fee. Commercial yard waste is also accepted again with a per-ton fee.

Residential vehicles pay a flat rate to hand unload garbage, and residential yard waste is charged a flat fee as well.

Household (residential) hazardous waste is accepted free of charge. No commercial hazardous waste is accepted.

Other services include: scrap tires, appliances, recycling, electronics and scrap metal drop off.

3. What are the rates for using the facility?

The best way to find out rates is by checking our website. There are various rates for various services.

4. Will staff help me unload my stuff?

No. Staff are present to direct customers to the proper places to unload their materials and ensure only the correct items are being unloaded. They are not responsible for helping to unload your materials and it is encouraged that you bring help with you if you feel you will need it. 

5. Why are there long lines every time I go?

Long lines and wait times are simply a product of customer volume. Current traffic studies done by staff show that M-F from 7:30 to 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM thru 2:00 PM seem to be the heaviest times and all day Saturday (7:30-12:00). Other delay reasons are the weigh in-weigh out process or the customer may want to change payment type, which can slow down the process. Staff does its best to help direct customers around to speed up the process and we are currently installing an additional scale to help with the volume.   Safety of staff and customers is always our highest priority.

6. Why do you have to go across the scale when bringing items to be disposed of at the hand unload or yard waste site?

Customers are required to weigh in. While on the scale, the software is capturing the vehicles total weight and notes are being made about the load (material type, County of origin, etc.) The customer is required to leave their credit card and ID with the scale operator until the unloading process has been completed. They will then proceed back to the scale they started at and the empty weight is subtracted from the original weight to get the net  weight of the materials disposed. This net weight is how the charge is applied. The scale will then use the credit card to pay for and complete the process. 

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Solid Waste - Residential Garbage and Recycling Curbside Collection

Show All Answers

1. Where can I find my collection day?

Use our convenient ReCollect tool online and/or the Durham Rollout app for Apple or Android to keep track of your collection days. You can sign up for reminders and service alerts, view and print a calendar, look up how to dispose of a particular item, request a bulky item pickup, and even play a waste sorting game to test your knowledge! 

2. What size roll out carts do you offer?

The Department of Solid Waste Management has 65-gallon carts and 96-gallon carts for single family homes. The 65 gallon garbage carts are ideal for individuals, small families and those who are dedicated recyclers and/or composters.

3. Where should I place my carts for collection service?

All carts should be placed at the curb before 5 a.m. on your scheduled collection day.  Leave a minimum of three feet between carts. If carts are placed too close to each other, they are likely to be knocked over while the cart is being serviced. The City will not be responsible for damaged property if carts are obstructed by objects and/or will not be serviced.

4. How do I get my damaged cart fixed?

Place a request with Durham One Call online or by calling 919-560-1200 to make a request for repairs or replacements. Place the broken cart at the curb on your day of collection so it can be serviced. The cart will not be serviced if it is not at the curb. Occupants will be charged a fee to replace carts damaged by fire, vandalism, vehicle damage, or other negligent acts.

5. How many carts are allowed per household?

Garbage: Solid Waste Management will service a maximum of 2 garbage carts for non-exempt residents, and 1 garbage cart for exempt residents. The 2nd cart is leased at an additional annual fee of $18 per year.

Recycling: Residents are permitted up to 4 blue carts at no extra charge. 

Pricing is subject to change.

6. Why was my garbage or recycling collection missed today?

There are a number of reasons that we might not be able to complete a collection. If you met all of the requirements below and we missed you, please report a missed collection and we will attempt to make it up before your next collection day. The best way to know for sure if to sign up for our convenient service alerts: Find Your Collection Day / Holiday Schedule / Calendar | Durham, NC (durhamnc.gov).

1. Be sure your cart is at the curb no later than 6 am on your collection day. Best to put it out the night before.
2. The cart must not be obstructed. It must be a safe distance (generally 3 feet is good) from other carts, parked cars, mailboxes, fences, utlility poles, and any other property that could be damaged by a mechanical arm during collection.
3. Your street must be accessible. Road closures are generally rare but do happen for water main breaks, street maintenance, etc.
4. If this is a holiday week, collections are usually pushed back one day. You can sign up for collection reminders or use the Durham Rollout app to have access to your address' collection schedule.
5. Sometimes we have personnel and / or vehicle issues that prevent us from completing routes. If you sign up for service alerts, we notify you when this happens on your route. 

7. Can you start collecting recycling every week instead of every two weeks?

This question also sometimes comes in with the idea to move trash to every other week and do recycling every week. There are a few reasons that isn't advisable at the moment, but we keep performance measures and evaluate all programs continually. We can promise that the idea of garbage collection every other week sounds much better than it actually is, especially in the summer months. Currently, Durham residents produce an average of about 1,500 pounds of garbage per household annually, and about 400 pounds of recycling annually. Residents can recycle all they want as we will provide up to 4 recycling carts for free. It would cost a significant amount to buy additional trucks and hire additional personnel and would provide little to no return. The environmental harm from running the additional vehicles would far outweigh any slight incremental environmental benefits that would be realized from higher collection frequencies. Residents can help by ensuring that boxes are broken down and flattened, plastic bottles, jugs and milk cartons are flattened and so on, to make best use of the space in their recycling carts.

8. How can I be a better recycler?

Recycling can be really easy. You can, but do not have to get caught up in the granular details of what is recyclable. It's better to err on the side of not including contamination as that can actually lead to fewer items being ultimately recycled as whole loads can be spoiled at times by contaminants. Stick with what you know -- bottles, cans, milk jugs, paper and cardboard, and you'll be an extremely effective recycler!

9. What happens to recyclables I put in my blue cart?

The City of Durham contracts with Sonoco Recycling in Raleigh to process all recyclables. Most local municipalities and counties either use Sonoco or Recycle America. We collect the contents of your blue cart curbside, deliver them to the City’s Transfer Station on E. Club Blvd, where it is all loaded into trailers and delivered to Sonoco for processing (sorting, and removal of unacceptable items). Sonoco has a combination of machines and people sorting the recyclables, and once sorted, they are bundled and sold to be reused/recycled. This video takes you on a tour of Sonoco’s facility: https://youtu.be/zN9BYsnVwHM

10. How do I dispose of large items that do not fit in my cart?

We do offer free Bulky Item curbside pickup up to once per week for 3 items or less per pickup. You can get more information about what is eligible for pickup and schedule a day for your collection online.

11. What should I do with construction and other materials?

Residents should take items to the Waste Disposal and Recycling Center at 2115 E. Club Blvd for proper disposal. Weight of the items will determine the cost of disposal. Solid Waste Management will not service any carts containing construction or non-household items. This includes materials such as carpentry, doors, windows, and cabinets. 

Transfer Station Information

12. I live in an apartment complex or townhome; do I receive collection services from the city?

Most apartment complexes and townhome communities are considered multi-family properties and are not serviced by the City. Contact your property manager to find out about waste collection for your particular home.

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Solid Waste - Subscription Yard Waste Curbside Collection

Show All Answers

1. How do I sign up for yard waste service?

You can find the forms you need on our website.

2. How much does it cost to sign up for yard waste service?

The fee is currently $90 per year. If you are a City water customer, it is charged monthly at $7.50 per month. Well water customers are billed $90 at the beginning of the fiscal year. This includes leasing the cart and receiving the curbside collection service. Additional carts are also available for $1.50 per month, or $18 per year. When residents sign up, it is for the full fiscal year (July 1 - June 30). 

Yard waste customers are also entitled to two free bulky brush pickups (scoops) per year ($40 value), and generally get preference with Christmas tree collection. 

3. How do I find my collection day?

Use our convenient ReCollect tool online and/or the Durham Rollout app for Apple or Android to keep track of your collection days. You can sign up for reminders and service alerts, view and print a calendar, look up how to dispose of a particular item, request a bulky item pickup, and even play a waste sorting game to test your knowledge! 

Note that weekly yard waste service is not guaranteed as weather and other circumstances beyond our control can affect our ability to perform collections in any given week. We will work with you to get all of your yard waste collected though.

4. Why does Durham charge for yard waste service?

Solid Waste serves about 80,000 households city-wide. About 22,000 of those households choose to have yard waste service. Many areas of the City don't have much tree coverage or need for yard waste services so this program is optional. Providing carts and yard waste service to every household city-wide would require a significant investment in more trucks, drivers and collectors and would be wasteful. This program is optional and self-sustaining, providing services as efficiently as possible. 

5. Why was my yard waste collection missed today?

There are a number of reasons that we might not be able to complete a collection. If you met all of the requirements below and we missed you, please report a missed collection and we will attempt to make it up before your next collection day. The best way to know for sure if to sign up for our convenient service alerts: Find Your Collection Day / Holiday Schedule / Calendar | Durham, NC (durhamnc.gov). Please note that refunds or credits are not given for missed collections. 

1. Be sure your cart is at the curb no later than 6 am on your collection day. Best to put it out the night before.
2. The cart must not be obstructed. It must be a safe distance (generally 3 feet is good) from other carts, parked cars, mailboxes, fences, utlility poles, and any other property that could be damaged by a mechanical arm during collection.
3. Your street must be accessible. Road closures are generally rare but do happen for water main breaks, street maintenance, etc.
4. If this is a holiday week, collections are usually pushed back one business day (Friday customers moved to the following Monday). You can sign up for collection reminders or use the Durham Rollout app to have access to your address' collection schedule.
5. Sometimes we have personnel and / or vehicle issues that prevent us from completing routes. If you sign up for service alerts, we notify you when this happens on your route. 

6. Why doesn't Durham do leaf collections on streets?

The Department of Public Works runs street sweepers to keep streets clean and items out of the storm drains that should not be there. However, to provide full leaf collection city-wide would require more specialized equipment that is very expensive to not only purchase, but to maintain. Those machines suck up everything and have been known to pull in small animals as well. Much of the detritius under the leaves can damage the machine. Most cities that have decided to use this method of leaf collection now regret it. 

7. What happens to yard waste?

Our collection trucks deliver yard waste to our yard waste facility on E Club Blvd, where it is ground up on site and composted by Atlas Organics with biosolids from the North Durham Water Reclamation Facility. This compost is sold commercially, so you can feel good that your yard waste is being used to improve soil. 

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Solid Waste - Walltown Food Waste Collection Pilot

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1. Why Walltown?

One of the community goals in Walltown is to improve environmental sustainability, something that aligns very well with composting. Since this is a pilot program, we also wanted to select a region of Durham that was representative of the demographic makeup of our city.

2. How do I participate?

If you are interested in participating in the pilot please complete this survey today. No experience is required! Once we have 100 households ready to begin, we will reach out with information to get you started.

Not a Walltown resident? If you are interested in future pilot programs, you can provide your contact information here and we will notify you when future opportunities occur.  

3. Why collect food waste?

Food waste can be as much as 30% by weight of items that get disposed of as garbage.  Did you know that food waste is the primary source of methane at landfill sites? Composting diverts food waste from the landfill and reduces greenhouse gas production. Food waste not sent to landfill can be composted to create a valuable soil amendment.  The City is already collecting food waste as garbage.  The pilot program will instead collect it in a different truck and deliver it to our composting contractor, Atlas Organics instead of it going to disposal in landfill.  Composting is the natural process of recycling organic matter, like food scraps, into fertilizer that feeds soil and plants.    

4. How does the program work?

Once 100 households sign up, we will start our 12 week pilot program. 

• All participants will receive a food collection cart, along with information about what food and organic materials are acceptable to be included in the cart.
• Participants will be asked to place their cart at the curb for collection once a week. 
• We ask that all participants complete two surveys, take part in brief feedback interviews, and share their experiences with us so we can learn what works and what doesn’t directly from program participants.

Throughout the pilot, our team will work to quickly respond to questions and listen to ideas so that we can make this the best program it can be for the Durham community. Our goal is to learn from Durham residents what works best for them before we expand the collection program beyond 100 households.

5. Where will my food waste go?

We are working with our partners Atlas Organics who will receive and process your food waste to turn it into rich compost that can be used in vegetable beds, parks and gardens. To learn more about Atlas Organics you can click here.

6. What happens after the pilot ends?

At the end of the 12 weeks, each participant will be asked to complete a final survey because your feedback is valuable and we want to know your thoughts on what worked, what didn’t work and why. Your input will help determine if this type of program can be offered to more neighborhoods and what types of resources will be needed to make that successfully happen.

7. I like what I hear - how do I get started?

Help us design this program to divert food waste from the landfill. Click this survey today to sign up. Remember, no experience is required!

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Special Event Permit FAQs

Show All Answers

1. Who can I contact for help?

Phone: 919-560-4974 ext. 29533

Email: [email protected]

3022 B Fayetteville St

Durham, NC 27701

2. Do I need to submit a City special event permit application for my event?

If your outdoor event requires the temporary closure of a City street or sidewalk, you must obtain a special event permit from the City of Durham.

3. When is my application due?

Permit applications are due either 60 BUSINESS or 15 BUSINESS days before the event.

If you can answer "yes" to any of the event characteristics below, your application is due 60 days before the event.

If you cannot answer "yes" to any of the event characteristics below, your application is due 15 days before the event.

1. My event has over 500 expected attendees or more than 100 pre-registered participants expected
2. My event will request the use of City services such as trash, security, tent inspections, police, etc.
3. My event will sell or serve alcohol
4. My event will sell food
5. My event will sell food from more than three food trucks registered with the City of Durham
6. My event is requesting street closures in Downtown Durham
7. My event will have professional sound equipment used for amplification (anything larger than a home stereo)

4. What supporting information do I need before beginning my special event permit application?

While not required, it is highly recommended to have the following forms and permits submitted (if applicable):

• Durham Parks and Recreation facility rental application and fee - if using a DPR facility
• ABC Permit - if serving or selling alcohol
• Special Event Trash and Recycling Cart Request Form and fee- if requesting City trash receptacles

If you cannot complete any of these forms (that apply to your event) before submitting your special event permit application, please notify [email protected] with your complete permit or form

5. How do I hold an event within a facility owned and maintained by the Durham Parks and Recreation?

Availability is subject to the schedules of preexisting programs, events, classes, and other activities.

Those interested in hosting a special event in a DPR facility must apply for a DPR use permit for the facility through DPR directly (see https://durhamnc.gov/2867/Rentals).

The application fee and damage deposit must be paid in full. For more information, contact [email protected] or (919) 560-4355, ext. 27202.

Please note that for some events in DPR facilities, a special event permit is also required. The purpose of the DPR use permit is solely to give permission to use the designated facility.

Please keep in mind that DPR facilities are public facilities and must be open to the general public; therefore, the use permit does not guarantee exclusive use of the public space.

6. How do I obtain an ABC permit to sell alcohol at my event, and how long does it take to get one?

To obtain an ABC permit, please contact Officer Wilkinson, Durham Police Department, 919-560-4322, ext 29173 or [email protected]

Once an application is turned in, it takes about 3-4 weeks to obtain a permit.

7. When do I need security or police presence at my event?

The need for security and other police services will be determined and enforced by the City of Durham Police Department for all events. (Depending on the size and nature of the event, police services may include security, traffic control, parking direction, route layout, etc.)

For events on public property at which any type of alcohol will be served, Event Coordinators are required to hire off-duty law enforcement officers (e.g., Durham Police Department officers, Durham County Sheriff’s deputies, etc.) as event security.

If you choose to hire Durham Police Department officers for your event, you are responsible for contacting the City of Durham Police Department Secondary Employment Coordinator at (919) 560-4322, ext. 29183 to schedule the officers for your event.

Fees are due by cash or check within 15 days of the event.

More information is available on the City’s website at https://durhamnc.gov/190/Secondary-Employment-Information.

In the event of cancellation, it is the Event Coordinator's responsibility to cancel event security 72 hours prior to the event. Failure to do so will result in the Event Coordinator being responsible for full payment to the security officers at the Police Department's established minimum rate.

8. How do I request to use City trash receptacles?

If the Event Coordinator wishes to use receptacles provided by the City, a Cart Request Form must be submitted 3 weeks prior to the event. Event Coordinators should contact the Solid Waste Department at (919) 560-4186 or reference the Resources section on this webpage for the required form to submit.

More information on the number of carts recommended per number of attendees and the associated fees are found in the Special Event Guidelines document.

9. What is the SERT and why am I being asked to attend their meeting?

The SERT is the Special Events Review Team. Large-scale, complex, or new events may be subject to additional review by the SERT before their event permit is approved.

The goal of the SERT is to assist the event organizer in ensuring that they have considered or acted on all necessary processes, applications, and components necessary to put on a successful event. The SERT is not a governing body and their goal is not to deny your application.

10. How do I register or operate a food truck in the City?

Durham's Office of Economic and Workforce Development has put together a guide to walk you through the process of registering and operating a food truck within City limits. You can find the guide at this link

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Stormwater Quality

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1. How do I report stormwater basin, ditch, or drainage issues?

Please use Durham One Call to report basin obstruction, ditches in need of cleaning or maintenance, or drainage problems on private property: Durham One Call.

2. How do I report illegal dumping in a storm drain?

Call the Stormwater Hotline: 919-560-SWIM (919-560-7946).

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Stormwater Utility Fee Frequently Asked Questions

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1. Stormwater fees for properties in Durham County, OUTSIDE of City of Durham limits.

Contact Durham County Tax Administration at 919-560-0300 or visit the Durham County Stormwater Utility Fee webpage.

2. What services do I get from paying stormwater utility fees?

• Keeping roads clean, street and sidewalk sweeping, litter control, and dead animal removal.
• Maintaining, cleaning, and repairing storm drains and ditch maintenance within publicly owned right-of-way.
• Mitigating flooding
• Running the Household Hazardous Waste Collection program
• Stream monitoring and running an illicit discharge identification and elimination program. 
• Educating residents about preventing stormwater pollution.
• Complying with federal and state requirements related to stormwater and water quality.

Stormwater & GIS Services Page.

3. Do you prefer monthly billing over annual?

Contact Durham One Call at 919-560-1200 to have your billing frequency changed to either monthly or annual.

4. How can I find out if there is a limit on the amount of impervious surface on my lot?

Contact the Development Services Center at 919-560-4137, option 3 or at [email protected].

5. I disagree with my billing tier or ERU calculation...

View your property on the Stormwater Utility Fee Map online. If there are significant differences between the impervious area recorded online and what is actually on your property, please contact Durham One Call at 919-560-1200 or submit a Stormwater Appeal form online.

6. What is stormwater?

Stormwater is rain or melted snow that does not soak into the ground. This water flows over the ground into storm drains, ditches, and other channels that flow directly into creeks, rivers, and lakes. Stormwater is not treated to remove pollution. 

7. Isn't this essentially a tax on rain water?

The stormwater utility fee is not changed by the amount of rain that falls or property tax value. The fee is based on the amount of runoff potentially created by impervious surface on the property. It is similar to fees paid for water/sewer service, trash collection, or electricity.

8. How long is my billing cycle?

Annual stormwater utility fees are generated once per fiscal year between July 1 and June 30 the following year. Monthly stormwater utility fees are billed along with your water and/or sewer charges once per month. For stormwater only accounts, monthly bills are generated on the last workday of that month.

9. Who is responsible for paying the stormwater utility fee?

The property owner is ultimately responsible for paying the fee. Property sales and stormwater billing accounts are reviewed and updated on a regular basis. Please contact Durham One Call at 919-560-1200 if responsibility has not been updated after four weeks following a change in ownership.

10. Are churches and other tax-exempt properties exempt from stormwater utility fees?

Tax exempt organizations still have to pay the stormwater utility fee. The stormwater utility fee is similar to fees paid for water and sewer service, trash collection, or electricity. All developed land in the city, whether public or private, is billed based on the impervious area on the property. The City of Durham even pays a stormwater utility fee for the impervious area at its facilities. 

11. My property is in the County, do I have to pay?

Properties outside of Durham city limits are billed under the County's requirements and are not billed by the City of Durham. For more information about stormwater utility fees for properties in Durham County and outside Durham city limits, contact Durham County Tax Administration at [email protected] or 919-560-0300.

12. Why is impervious area used to determine a property's stormwater utility fee?

The amount of impervious surface on a property is the single most important factor affecting the amount of water flowing off a property, how quickly that water flows off a property, and the amount of pollution picked up by the water from that property. Because of this, basing stormwater utility fees on the impervious area on a property is one of the most common methods used to determine stormwater utility fees.

13. What is considered an impervious surface?

An impervious surface is a hard surface that does not let water soak into the ground or greatly reduces the amount of water that soaks into the ground. For more information, please visit our Impervious Surface page.

14. How is the amount of impervious area on my property calculated?

The amount of impervious area on your property is determined through the use of a geographic information system (GIS), aerial photos, and satellite imagery. Images are taken of Durham that show the impervious surfaces on each property. A computer program is then used to calculate the amount of impervious area on each parcel. To view impervious area on your property visit the Stormwater Utility Fee Map.

15. If stormwater causes so many problems, why don’t we treat it along with our sanitary sewage?

Some older cities have a combined sewer system that treats rainwater with their sewage. The problem with sending rainwater to a treatment plant is that that there is just so much of it. For example, if one inch of rain falls on Durham that is almost 2 billion gallons of water. Durham has 2 wastewater treatment plants that are each permitted to treat 20 million gallons of wastewater per day. At that capacity the city would need 90 treatment plants to handle 1 inch of rain. Cities with combined sewer systems often have sewer system overflows with heavy rains. This releases bacteria, pathogens, toxic chemicals, and debris into the environment.

Currently the city uses other methods to treat stormwater that include practices such as stormwater wetlands, bioretention areas, and vegetated buffers. The cost of adding such items to a site after it is developed is about $50,000/acre of impervious area. These high costs to remove pollution from our stormwater are why it is so important to prevent the pollution.

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Toilet Rebate Program

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1. What is a WaterSense High Efficiency Toilet?

WaterSense is the Environmental Protection Agency’s labeling program for water efficiency products. WaterSense labeled toilets use an average of only 1.28 gallons of water per flush and have passed rigorous testing standards. WaterSense Labeled Toilets

2. Do I have to buy the toilet at a particular store?

No, there is no specific store that is necessary for the rebate. As long as the toilet is an HET on the EPA’s WaterSense list, a customer can buy it from any retailer, even online, but we do need the original invoice(s) or sales receipt(s) sent in with the application. The Department of Water Management advises customers to keep a copy of the sales invoice(s) or receipt(s) for their records.

3. Are all of the toilets on the EPA WaterSense list available at all retailers?

That is unlikely. The Department of Water Management has informed local retailers about the program and encouraged them to carry a stock of HET models. No retailer will have every toilet, but approved toilets are available locally. Many plumbing supply stores can special order toilets as well.

4. Is there anything else I need to buy with the toilet?

This will depend on the toilet purchased, as some toilets come in complete kits. It may be possible that a new wax ring or additional bolts may be needed when purchasing the toilet. Check with your retailer or plumber to ensure you have all the equipment needed to have a working toilet.

5. Do I have to hire someone to install the toilet?

Professional installation is not needed. Individual customers may choose to install a toilet. If you purchase a toilet through a plumber, be sure the model number actual price of the toilet itself is listed on the receipt.

6. What do I need to submit with my application?

In addition to a completed and signed application form (PDF), residential customers must submit:

• The ORIGINAL, dated sales receipt or invoice. If submitting an invoice from a plumber, the invoice must be itemized to include the model number and price of each toilet.
• A copy of your your most recent water bill.

7. How will I receive the rebate?

Once all required information is received by staff, the rebate will be applied as a credit to your water and sewer account. In some cases non-residential applicants will receive the credit(s) in the form of a check.

8. Will the city be checking to see that my toilet has been installed?

As part of the rebate process, customers must agree to allow a post-installation inspection if requested.

9. How long will the toilet rebate program last?

The program is offered on a first-come, first-served basis and will function as long as allocated funds permit.

10. How can commercial, institutional, and industrial customers become eligible?

Non-residential customer may become eligible if they receive an evaluation through our partnership with Waste Reduction Partners. The evaluation must recommend replacement of toilets as an efficiency measure and must occur before the replacement is performed. Please contact Water Efficiency staff for more information.

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Towing

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1. How do I find out who towed my vehicle?

Call the Durham Police Department front desk officer at (919) 560-4427. If we towed your vehicle, we can look it up in the tow log and give you the tow business information.

2. Who do I contact if I have a towing complaint?

Contact the Towing Inspector, Officer Wilkinson at [email protected] or 919-560-4322, ext. 29173.

3. What do I need when I pick up my vehicle from the tow company?

You will need a current registration and photo ID to show proof of ownership. Vehicles will only be released to registered owners unless circumstances prevent this, at which time you need to contact the Towing Inspector to make other arrangements.

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Transportation

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1. How do I Request a Deaf Child Sign?

Present a doctor's note to the Department of Transportation (4th floor City Hall).

2. How do I request a traffic sign?

The requestor will need to submit a request to Durham One Call and Identify the item as “Traffic Sign Request.”  The task will be automatically assigned to the appropriate staff and reviewed. Staff will follow up with the requestor.

3. How do I appeal a parking ticket?

The requestor can appeal a parking ticket by submitting it online. 

4. How do I request a Speed Hump?

Contact Durham One Call by submitting this online form or calling 919-560-1200. 

You may submit through the Durham One Call app for Apple or Android using the “Other Concern” category.

5. How do I report a faulty/ out street light?

To report a problem with a street light, put in a. Once on the page, use the drop-down menu to select streets and sidewalks, then choose Signal Traffic repair.

6. Where do I retrieve a lost item on a bus?

Lost and found is located on the left of the information desk at Durham Station. Riders can also call 919-485-RIDE (7433) to report an item missing. However, GoDurham is not responsible for lost items; we can check if someone turned your lost item in.

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Water - Sewer Root Control

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1. What is root control?

In order to prevent slowdowns and blockages in sewers, routine periodic cleaning is necessary. When tree roots find open cracks or pipe joints, they grow well in the sewer environment. Mechanical removal of roots is often difficult and can damage pipe and service line connections. Foaming herbicides is a method to coat roots, causing them to die off over a period of months. The foam is injected thru a small hose inserted in the sewer.

2. How does the process work?

The foam will only affect the roots within and immediately adjacent to the entry point of the sewer. It will not harm the tree or ground cover, or impact the sewer or treatment processes. The contractor takes great care to contain and clean up any foam that may spill or get on the ground.

3. As a property owner, is there anything I need to do before root control is performed in my neighborhood?

No. There will be no evidence of the work or any interruption to the sewer system and most sites will be foamed within 20-30 minutes. When manholes are located in rear yards or outfalls, the contractor may need to access to them in order to ensure the injection hose actually gets to the endpoint or to insert the hose for foaming. The homeowner does not need to be present for this, and the contractor should be distributing notices several days in advance of this private property entry.

4. Will the cleaning affect me?

No. There will be no disruptions to your sewer service during the foaming.

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Water - Tiered Water Rates

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1. What are tiered water rates?

These are rates designed to encourage efficient water use by charging more, at different tiers or levels, as customers use more water.

2. Why are only Single Family Residential (SFR) customers subject to the tiered rate system?

The key concept behind implementing tiered rate structures for SFRs is that this
customer group has the most opportunity to curb or control their water use.
Business/commercial customers have more consistent use of water that does not vary much. Industrial and institutional customers use water in their daily processes and operations; therefore their water use is relatively stable.

3. If I use water in the higher Tiers, will all my water be charged at that amount?

No. Bills will be calculated so that water used in the lower tiers is charged at that tier rate. Only the excess or overage will be charged at the higher rates.

4. Will sewer charges be assessed at the tiered rates?

No. Sewer charges are assessed at a uniform rate.

5. How are commercial customers billed?

All non-residential customers, including multi-family residential customers, are billed at the Tier 3 rate. Service charges depend on the size of the meter providing service.

6. Do business customers pay more for water and sewer services than residential users?

Yes. In addition to having all water charged at the Tier 3 level, customers with larger size meters (a larger meter relates to a larger service line) pay water and sewer service charges that escalate with the size of the meter.

7. Why are water and sewer rate increases necessary?

While the City has gradually been increasing the water and sewer rates over the past several years in keeping with Council objectives, these increases have not been enough to cover the large capital projects that are required for the City to continue to provide both adequate and safe drinking water for our customers. Among the many water and sewer capital projects are those which will provide additional finished water storage, add additional supply options and construct/expand treatment facilities to meet upcoming regulations.

8. What do water and sewer service charges pay for?

Service Charges cover the costs of keeping the systems “ready to serve” when the faucet is turned on or the toilet is flushed. Below is a breakdown of the specifics that service charges cover:

1. 100 % of the cost to read and maintain meters
   
2. 100 % of the Customer Billing and Service Division
   
3. 20 % of Public Works Engineering and Administration
   
4. 18 % of Department of Water Management Administration
   
5. 52 % of Water and Sewer Treasury functions (cashiering and collections)
   
6. 20 % of the Plant Maintenance Division functions
   
7. 20 % of Water and Sewer Laboratory Services
   
8. 10 % of the System Rehabilitation Program
   
9. 10 % of Water and Sewer Line Maintenance
   
10. 5 % of the Regulatory Compliance Division functions
    
11. 21 % of General Fund (services provided by other City departments in support of Water and Sewer Fund activities)
    
12. 47 % indirect costs
    
13. 15 % Rate Funded Capital Improvement Program (also funded by Capital Facility
    Fees and Revenue Bonds)
    
14. 20 %of Debt Service
    
15. Offset by 100 % of revenues collected from Late and Service Initiation Fees
    

9. What do water and sewer consumption/usage charges pay for?

Consumption Charges cover operating costs not covered by service charges. Below is a list of those functions:

1. 100 % of Water Supply and Treatment operations
   
2. 100 % of Wastewater Reclamation Facility operations
   
3. 82 % of Department of Water Management Administration
   
4. 80 % of Public Works Engineering and Administration
   
5. 90 % of Water and Sewer Maintenance Division functions
   
6. 95 % of Regulatory Compliance Division functions
   
7. 90 % of System Rehabilitation Program
   
8. 80 % Plant Maintenance Division functions
   
9. 48 % of Water and Sewer Treasury functions (billing and collections)
   
10. 80 % of Water and Sewer Laboratory services
    
11. 79 % of General Fund (services provided by other City departments in support of Water and Sewer Fund activities)
    
12. 53 % indirect costs
    
13. 80 % Debt Service
    
14. 85 % of Rate Funded Capital Improvement Program (CIP)
    
15. Offset by Permit, Assessment and Frontage Fees and related interest
    

10. What is an irrigation rate?

The irrigation rate is assessed for water-only accounts that use drinking water solely for irrigation purposes; it is set at the Tier 5 level. During a typical spring and summer, Durham's water demand may increase by as much as 25 to 40 %. This extra demand on the system is primarily due to irrigation/landscaping uses. The irrigation rate passes the cost of the extra system demand on to those customers creating the demand.

11. Does the City have resources for customers that may not be able to pay their water and sewer bill?

Yes. The City provides funding for the water and sewer hardship fund, which is
administered by the Durham County Department of Social Services. Eligibility generally follows the same guidelines as other County emergency assistance programs. Families with children will qualify based on family size and income and may be referred from the City’s customer service staff. For further information, visit Durham County Social Services at 414 E. Main Street, or call the Durham County Social Services main number (919) 560-8000. Adult eligibility will also follow the same guidelines as other County emergency assistance programs. Qualifying adults will be either disabled or elderly (62 years or older) and meet income eligibility. Adults may be referred from the City’s customer service staff; call the Durham County Social Services main number (919) 560-8000. Annually, about $80,000 in hardship funds are provided under this program. City staff also maintains a list of other agencies that offer help to individuals and families.

12. Does Durham use tax money to provide water and sewer services?

No. Durham, like most municipal water and sewer providers, uses only those charges and fees generated from water and sewer customers to pay for the water and sewer systems. The water and sewer fund is managed as an “enterprise” fund. That is, it is self sufficient as if it were a stand-alone business enterprise.

13. Why does the use of “one-time” revenues have an impact on the water and sewer rates?

One-time revenues that the City once used to subsidize the water and sewer rates are no longer available. These revenues came primarily from use of water and sewer fund balance and from the sale of water to other localities. These revenues must be replaced by current charges and fees to fully recover the costs of providing the service. Also, these one-time revenues do not replace the necessity for current charges and fees to support system expenses, including debt service, as required by the revenue bonds issued by the City for water and sewer capital needs.

14. What are revenue bonds and why are they issued?

Revenue bonds are bonds issued by the City for the express purpose of funding water and sewer capital projects. Capital projects are construction, rehabilitation or replacement projects to the infrastructure of the water and sewer systems. Revenue bonds differ from General Obligation bonds issued by the City in that the City’s general tax revenues are not pledged as a potential source to repay the bonds. Because only charges and fees generated by the water and sewer rates are pledged to repay the bonds, City taxpayers as a whole are not burdened by this debt and it does not count as debt against the City’s ability to issue General Obligation Bond debt.

15. What are revenue bond rate covenants and what is their connection to water and sewer rates?

As noted above, revenue bonds that are issued to fund water and sewer infrastructure are not backed with City tax revenues. These bonds depend on the charges and fees collected from water and sewer customers. As such, bondholders generally require that the water and sewer rate structure be sufficient to provide for all system costs, including debt service. That is, current charges for services must cover the cost of those services. As the issuer of the bonds, the City agrees to a process that will assure the rate structure will be raised in order to provide for “coverage” of these costs if revenues drop below expenditures of the system. While water and sewer fund balance can be utilized to provide for a funding gap as a “one-time” revenue source, it cannot be utilized as a permanent source of on-going revenue and does not count as revenue for purposes of these bond rate covenants.

16. What are fixed sewer consumption charges – also known as sewer only charges?

Some customers are “sewer only” customers and do not have meters to read. These
customers are charged a fixed fee based on the number of persons in the household. Annually, these customers must send in an affidavit on which they report the number of persons living in the household. If the affidavit is not received, the fixed charge will revert to the highest charge which is for a household size of four or more persons. See Current Water and Sewer Rates.

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Water Back Billing

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1. What is an estimated bill?

A bill is estimated when we are not able to get an actual meter reading. This could be due to a meter that’s damaged, isn’t transmitting data, or is inaccessible due to surrounding debris or vegetation. An estimated bill is based on the most recent water-use records for your account. However, if you had a leak or used more water during the summer months, that would not be reflected in the estimated bill you receive. This is what occurred in 2019, when a number of accounts were estimated for an extended period of time.

2. How can I tell if my bill is estimated?

Your bill will say “this is an estimated reading” right below the amount due on the left hand side. If your bill is marked estimated for more than two months in a row, please consider contacting the Department of Water Management through Durham One Call at (919) 560-1200.

3. How are estimated bills calculated?

Staff generally review six prior months’ usage to determine the estimated usage for your account and then apply the established water and sewer rates.

4. Do I have to pay a bill that is estimated?

You are responsible for paying your bill every month whether it’s based on an actual meter reading or an estimate. The Department of Water Management has more than 95,000 customers. With that many meters to read, a small number each month may have issues. Rather than hold the bill for the next cycle, we send an estimated bill until the issue is resolved. This way, your estimated bill reflects your normal usage and you are not caught off-guard the following month with a double bill.

5. What if I paid estimated bills that turned out to be higher than my actual water use? Will I be issued a refund now that it's clear I overpaid?

If your estimated bills exceeded your actual water use, we will credit your account. No further action on your part is required.

6. I already paid bills without noticing they were estimated bills. Now I am being billed for more. Do I have to pay that, too?

Sometimes a customer uses more water than estimated, sometimes less. Even when we can’t access your meter, it keeps recording water use. At this point, we have reviewed the meter readings and your actual records and verified that you used more water than we estimated. What you see on your bill is a charge for that water. Yes, you are required to make payment in full.

7. How far back are you allowed to retroactively bill me?

Based on City Council’s recommendation in response to this event, you will not be retroactively billed beyond a six-month period. This recommendation applies only to cases when the City is considered responsible.

8. How do you calculate the back-billed amount to make sure that I have not been overcharged?

Your water meter measures how much water you use. Even if the readings aren’t being transmitted properly, the meter continues to measure usage. We review those measurements, compare the actual water used to the amount paid for through estimated billing, and charge the difference.  

9. How do I contact Customer Billing if I have a question about the amount due and how it was calculated?

You can submit a service request through our online portal via the Durham One Call Page on the City’s website at https://durhamnc.gov/1439/Durham-One-Call.  Click on the “Place a Request” button; scroll down to “Water Management” on the left hand box and click; then select the “Miscellaneous Water Billing Questions” option, complete the form with your address, account number, and question; hit “Submit.”  You can expect to hear back within 3 business days.

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Water Hammer

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1. 1. What is water hammer?

• Water hammer, also known as hydraulic shock, is a banging or knocking sound that can occur in a water pipe.

2. 2. What causes water hammer?

• Water hammer occurs when the water in the pipe suddenly changes direction, for example when a faucet is turned off. The change in direction creates pressure waves, which can vibrate and “bang” on the pipe, and can cause damage if the pressure is too high. Other causes of water hammer include air trapped in pipes, plumbing design problems (such as poor/improper installation, incorrect fittings used, etc.), and plumbing maintenance problems (such as kinks, corrosion, or other damage to pipes, improper water pressure settings, etc.).

3. 3. How can I stop or prevent water hammer?

• One of the simplest ways to minimize water hammer is to turn on the tap at the highest fixture on your property – often an upstairs or attic bathroom. In homes where these upper bathrooms are rarely or never used, it is a good idea to run the tap for one or two minutes every couple weeks. Other solutions include installing a pressure reducing valve or multiple air chambers. Please note, these solutions are more costly and complex, and customers should consult a qualified licensed plumber for more advice.

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Water or Sewer

Show All Answers

1. Where do I pay my water bill?

• Online using our Payment Portal.
• Over the phone: dial Durham One Call at 919-560-1200 (press option 1). 
• In person with cash only: on the 1st floor of City Hall (101 City Hall Plaza, Durham, North Carolina, 27701).

2. How do I get permission to tap into water or sewer?

Visit Engineering Services on the 3rd floor of City Hall. You may call ahead for an appointment at 919-560-4326.

3. How do I find out if water and sewer is available at/near my property, and/or how do I get the line extended?

Contact Public Works Water and Sewer Engineering Services 919-560-4326.

4. How do I request new water or sewer lines be installed at my property?

Contact the Engineering Services workgroup at 919-560-4326.

5. Before I dig on my property how do I get my utilities located or marked?

Contact NCOCC (North Carolina One Call Center) at 811 and they will guide you through the process. The city maintains all water and sewer in the public right of way only which includes laterals to your water meter and sanitary sewer clean-out. You will have to contact a private locator to have these lines marked on your property as they are considered private and not maintained by the city.

Any digging in the public right of way will require a permit and that can be obtained by contacting the Engineering Division of Public Works at 919-560-4326.

6. How do I inquire about a Pending Assessment?

Pending assessments are associated with various assessable improvements (water, sewer, street, sidewalk) that have been ordered by City Council, but have not yet been assessed. Complete a Pending Assessment Inquiry Form and fax it to Engineering Services at 919-560-4316. Once the form is received, we will identify any pending assessment information and return the form to you within 2 business days. Download a Pending Assessment Inquiry Form (PDF).

7. How do I inquire about Confirmed Assessments?

You may obtain information concerning confirmed assessments on the assessment listings in the Finance Department. Additional information on confirmed assessments may be obtained by contacting the Collections Division at 919-560-4700. Learn more about Confirmed Assessment.

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West Club Blvd. Corridor Utility Rehabilitation

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1. Why is this work needed?

This project will evaluate and replace aging water mains and other utility infrastructure that was installed in the 1920s in the project area.

2. What is included in this project?

Approximately 12,000 linear feet of water mains will be replaced within West Club Boulevard, 9th Street, Carolina Avenue, Oakland Avenue, Oval Drive, and Englewood Avenue. The project may also include storm drainage rehabilitation and sanitary sewer main rehabilitation following field investigations.

3. How much will it cost?

The project will be paid for by previously authorized Capital Improvement Program (CIP) funds.

4. How long will it take?

The field investigation portion of the project will take approximately six months.

5. Will my business/property be impacted during the field investigation phase of this project?

Field investigation personnel will work primarily within the existing public right-of-way, but will also access front yards to survey the location of water meters, sewer cleanouts, sidewalks, trees, etc. The City’s contractor is required to maintain access to residences and businesses at all times, though some on-street parking may be temporarily obstructed during field investigations.

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West Main Street Waterline Replacement

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1. Why is this work needed, what is included, how much will it cost, and how long will it take?

This project will replace deteriorating waterlines that were installed in the 1930s and 1940s. Approximately 5,600 feet of waterlines within the West Main Street area will be replaced. Also, existing water meter boxes will be upgraded to current standards. The project will be paid for by previously authorized capital improvement program (CIP) funds. Anticipated waterline construction duration will be updated following completion of the site review phase of the project.

2. Will my business/property be impacted during the construction phase of this project?

Construction will not occur on private properties; however, there will be pedestrian, traffic, and noise impacts throughout the West Main Street area during construction. The city’s contractor will be required to maintain access to residences and businesses at all times, though on-street parking and pedestrian access may be obstructed due to the work area or traffic detours.

All property owners will be notified in advance of construction near their property; this includes any planned water service disruptions. Sound levels near active construction areas are anticipated to range between 70 and 90 decibels. Due to traffic control constraints, it may be necessary to conduct some work in high-traffic areas during weekend hours.

3. Why will some construction take place on weekends?

Due to the many existing utilities located beneath the roads in the project area, the installation of the proposed waterline will require lane and/or road closures to expedite construction. In some portions of the project area, construction will take place during weekend hours in order to minimize traffic, pedestrian, and bus impacts. Weekend work will allow the contractor to complete work that requires road closures while minimizing the impacts to traffic and nearby businesses. Sound levels near active construction areas are anticipated to range between 70 and 90 decibels.

4. How will I know about detours, changes in traffic patterns, etc.?

In addition to other notifications, signage will inform and direct property owners, residents, and visitors in the West Main Street area regarding detours, changes in traffic patterns, and access issues throughout construction. Disturbed areas along roadways and sidewalks will be repaved, and lawns will be graded and reseeded at the end of the project.

5. Will my water service be affected by this project?

Once the project enters the construction phase, existing water meters in the project area will be reconnected to the newly installed waterlines. It is possible that customers will be without water for a short duration (typically a few hours) while this transition takes place. Property owners will be notified in advance regarding any planned service disruptions.