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1. Do I need a permit for a security system?

The City of Forney does not require a permit for alarms.

2. Do I need a permit for a garage sale?

No, but there are rules in place for holding them:

• Garage sales are limited to 3 sales during any 12 month period
• 1 sign in the owner’s front yard and 2 other signs (off-site) are allowed on private property (between the house and sidewalk or fence), with the owner’s permission. Signs:
• Are not to exceed 2 square feet in size
• Must be placed at least 4 feet from street curb line
• Are to be posted no longer than 72 hours
• Must be picked up

No signs are allowed on any utility pole, tree, fence, or structure, or to be placed on any public road right-of-way (street corners).

3. Do I need a permit to replace my water heater?

Yes. The Texas State Plumbing License Law requires that a plumbing permit be obtained and the work inspected by a state licensed plumbing inspector authorized by the City of Forney. A licensed master plumber must register with the city and pull the required permit.

4. What are the submittal requirements for building a new house?

You will need the following:

• Complete building permit application
• Digital copy 2021 IRC/2020 NEC  (submitted through mygov):
• Architectural plans (garage swing must match the structural sheets)
• Structural plans (stamped by a licensed engineer)
• Foundation letter (stamped and signed by licensed engineer)
• Energy Comcheck (2021)
• Fence plan

5. What building codes does the City of Forney use?

You can view the code of ordinances online.

6. Who needs a Certificate of Occupancy?

Any business within the City of Forney including a change of building ownership; change of business name; change of business owner; change in occupancy use, or any new business will need a Certificate of Occupancy.

7. Do I contact Community Development when in need of a Health Inspection for Foster Care?

You would contact the agency that you are affiliated with. The city does not do the health inspections for foster care.

8. Do I need a permit for a residential security system?

No, you do not need a permit. You do need to contact the police department if you are with in the city limits for alarm activation to insure contact information. Alarm company should send notification of your service upon installation.

9. Do I need a permit for a shed?

You would need to obtain a permit for a storage building that would exceed 120 sq. ft. If it's less than 120 sq. ft., you would not need a permit.

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1. Can I get my blood pressure checked at the fire station?

Yes. We offer this service free at:

Central Fire Station

104 E Aimee Street

Forney, TX 75126

Fire Station Number 2

980 Reeder Lane

Forney, TX 75126

Please recognize that, from time to time, our personnel might be absent from the station due to emergency calls or training activities.

2. How can I get a copy of a fire report?

Fire reports may be obtained through a public information request to the City of Forney's city secretary.

3. How do I request a tour of a fire station or fire engine visit?

To request a tour of our fire station or to schedule a fire engine to visit your site, call 972-552-2211 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

4. How often should I check my smoke detector?

Smoke detectors should be checked on a monthly basis. Batteries should be replaced twice a year. A good way to remember to change your batteries is to change them when you change your clocks for daylight savings.

5. What is the city's International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Rating?

The Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating inside the city limits is Number 2.

Outside the city limits (out of protection area):

• Within 5 road miles of a Forney Fire Station and within 1000 feet of a fire hydrant: Number 4
• Within 5 road miles of a Forney Fire Station but no hydrant within 1000 feet: Number 8B
• Not within 5 road miles of a Forney Fire Station: Number 10

6. What type of fire extinguisher is best for my home?

A multipurpose fire extinguisher is best for the home. Look for the rating to be at 2A.10B.C on the label. This extinguisher can be used on any type of fire commonly found in the home. It will often be labeled A-B-C.

7. When does the Fire Department have its meetings?

The Forney Volunteer Fire Department holds a training meeting on the 2nd and 4th Monday of every month at 7 p.m.

8. Who do I call for nonemergency fire-related questions?

Call the Administration Office of the Fire Department at 972-552-2211.

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1. Who may I contact about the status of my application?

Due to the volume of calls and limited staffing we ask that you please not call to check the status of your application. You will be contacted if you have been selected for an interview. All applicants will be informed of the final hiring decision.

2. Can I apply for more than one position?

Yes, you may apply for as many open jobs as you wish, however a separate application must be submitted for each one.

3. Can I send in a resume instead of completing the job application?

No, we do not accept resumes without an application. You can attach a resume to an application, but you should complete the application as if there were no resume attached.

4. Do I have to take a drug test?

Yes, the City of Forney requires that a post-offer drug test be passed prior to finalizing any job offer. Applicants must also undergo criminal history and driving record checks and pass a post-offer physical exam.

5. What is the time frame for the hiring process?

There are no time restrictions for the hiring process. It may take several weeks from the time that the opening is closed for the hiring supervisor to select applicants to be interviewed. All applicants will be informed of the final hiring decision.

6. Will my application automatically be submitted for new openings?

No, you must reapply every time you seek a position with the City of Forney.

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1. How can I pay for my citation?

View the payment options webpage.

2. Can I take a driver safety course to dismiss my citation?

View the driver safety course webpage for information.

3. How do I request a background check?

Contact the City Secretary's Office for all open records requests.

4. I was summoned for jury duty, how do I know if I can be exempted?

View the jury duty exemption webpage for information.

5. What are my options for dismissal of certain offenses?

View the violation dismissal options webpage for information.

6. What are my options for entering a plea?

A plea must be made in person or by mail with a copy of the following:

• 2 forms of ID
• By an attorney
• Your driver's license or state issued ID or passport.

You may refer to the adult or juvenile procedures pamphlet for further information regarding a plea or you may want to consult an attorney. You may now enter your plea of Not Guilty online.

7. What are my rights in Municipal Court?

Please refer to the adult or juvenile procedures pamphlet for further information regarding your rights or you may want to consult an attorney.

8. What happens at trial?

Please refer to the adult or juvenile procedures pamphlet for further information regarding what happens at trial or you may want to consult an attorney.

9. What happens at court if I am a juvenile (person under the age of 17)?

Juveniles must appear in person before the Judge, accompanied by a parent or guardian. Juveniles do not have to take action on a citation within 20 days. Notice of their court date and time will be mailed by the Court to the address shown on the citation. If the mailing address on the citation is incorrect it is your responsibility to contact the court.

If the juvenile fails to appear, their driver's license may be denied or suspended until they do appear in court with a parent or guardian.

For more information please refer to the juvenile procedures pamphlet, speak with the Juvenile Case Manager 972-552-6660 or you may want to consult an attorney.

10. What if I need to make payment arrangements?

Payment of all fines and court costs are due at the time of disposition, unless otherwise pre-approved.

For pre-approval, complete the Application for Time Payment (PDF) and either bring it to the court at 331 South FM 548 or mail it to P.O. Box 826, Forney, TX 75126 along with a copy of your ID and deposit of not less than $50 per violation (unless otherwise approved).

All applications will be verified and you may be asked to complete an interview prior to approval. NOTE: Any outstanding or past due citations, payments are subject to warrant and the denial of your renewal on your motor vehicle registration and driver's license.

If you are convicted of an offense and are unable to pay the fine and costs, you may have the court assess your ability to pay and the court my provide alternatives to full payment in satisfying the judgment.   If you feel you are unable to pay your citations please contact the court for alternate options.

11. What if I want to appeal my citation?

If you are found guilty, and are not satisfied with the judgment of the court, you have the right to appeal your case. To appeal you must file an appeal bond with the Municipal Court within 10 days of the judgment for any cases filed before September 1, 2012. We are now a court of record and you will need to contact the court on how to appeal out of a court of record by calling 972-564-7311.

12. What if I want to speak with the Judge about my citation?

You may set your citation for a trial before the judge or jury. You will be set for a pretrial hearing. The Judge cannot discuss the merits of a pending judicial proceeding prior to actual trial (Canon 6 (c), Code of Judicial Conduct).

This means that the Judge is forbidden from discussing your ticket with you before trial, except, as to procedural matters. If you choose to plead guilty and have extenuating circumstances, then the Judge may discuss them with you.

13. What is the proper attire for court or jury duty?

Business casual is the accepted attire for jury service. No jeans, shorts, cut-offs, t-shirts, sweats, hats, or flip flops are allowed. The chewing of gum is also not allowed. Violators may be sent home to change clothes.

All cell phones must be turned off. You may refer to the rules of attire for more information.

14. What are the Local Rules of the Court?

view the https://www.forneytx.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3220/Local-Rules-of-the-Municipal-Court-of-record-No-1---Effective-06012018-PDF

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1. What is neighborhood services/code enforcement?

Code enforcement is city employees working with residents, neighborhood associations, public service agencies and other city departments to facilitate voluntary compliance with city laws and codes.

2. What types of codes do you enforce?

We enforce environmental, nuisance, life safety and zoning codes. Examples include signage in the right of way, vehicles parked on the grass, graffiti, high grass/weeds, vegetation obstruction, trash on property, illegal dumping, fences in disrepair, abandoned or illegal vehicles and trash cart placement.

3. Why hasn't my complaint been addressed?

Due process is necessary on each case per state law, allowing a minimum of seven days for voluntary compliance

4. Why was my car tagged as a junk or an inoperable vehicle?

Inoperable means not capable of being used or operated due to legal or mechanical incapability. If a vehicle on private property has not moved in 30 days, is dismantled or has expired registration and/or inspections tags it is deemed a junk motor vehicle.

5. Why are my garage sale or other signs being removed?

Signage, such as garage sale signs, is only allowed on private property. No signage is allowed in public right of ways. All signs found or reported on public property will be removed.

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1. Do I need a permit to erect a sign?

Almost all signs require a permit including temporary banners. Please contact the Planning Department or refer to the Sign Ordinance for more information.

2. What is the Board of Adjustment and when do they meet?

The Board of Adjustment is a 5-member "quasi-judicial" board appointed by the city council to hear requests for variances to the city zoning ordinance (i.e., setbacks, height, lot coverage, building materials, and fence height and location) or to determine if a city official has made an error regarding a zoning requirement. They will also consider special exceptions.

The Board of Adjustment meets as needed at 6 p.m. in the Council Chambers. Most meetings are held the 1st Monday of the month, but occasionally, special meetings may be held because of holidays or other unique circumstances.

Please confirm meeting dates by calling the Planning Department at 972-564-7384.

3. What is the City of Forney's Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ)?

The extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) of the City of Ferney, is the land up to 1 mile beyond the city limits.

4. What must I do to rezone my property?

To rezone your property:

• Call the Planning Department at 972-564-7384.
• Fill out the proper application (PDF) (PDF) and submit the $225 fee and a survey and/or plat of the property showing boundary dimensions are part of the application.
• Appear at a public hearing before the Planning and Zoning Commission.
• Appear at a public hearing before the City Council.

5. When does the Planning and Zoning Commission meet?

The Planning and Zoning Commission normally meets at 6:30 p.m. on the 1st Thursday of every month.

6. Where do I find information about building setbacks?

To find information about building setbacks, call the Planning Department at 972-564-7384. The information is located in the Zoning Ordinance.

7. Who can apply to rezone a piece of property?

Only 3 entities may initiate a rezoning: the City Council, the Planning and Zoning Commission, or a property owner or his agent. Someone other than the property owner may apply for a zoning change; however, permission of the property owner is required.

8. Who can tell me how my property is zoned?

The Planning Department, at 972-564-7384, can help you determine the zoning of your property. You must know the physical location and legal description of your property including lot, block, and addition as well as the names of any streets in the vicinity.

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1. How do I file a minor accident report?

You can pick up a CRB-2 Driver Crash Report at any Police Department and follow the instructions on the back.

2. How do I find out the crime rate of a particular area or information on an incident?

Texas Government Code, Chapter 552, Public Information Act allows you to request in writing the information you are requesting to obtain. You will then have 10 business days to receive a response or a notice of extension on time.

Certain exceptions may apply to the disclosure of the information. Complete the Public Information Act Request Form or contact the Forney Police Department by calling 972-564-7645 or 972-564-7623

3. How do I get a copy of a police accident / incident report?

Reports can be purchased for $6. You can go to the Texas Department of Transportation website using the link below and get a copy of your crash report. You may come to the Police Department and pick one up between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday or request one by mail and enclose a check or money order.

To receive a report you must know the following:

• What type of report, incident or accident?
• Where the incident / accident occurred at?
• Who was involved in the incident / accident?
• When the incident / accident occurred?

Crash Reports

4. How do I get a criminal history for myself?

Complete the Request for Public Criminal History Data Form (PDF) from the Texas Department of Public Safety. Then follow the mailing instructions on the bottom of the form.

5. How do I get fingerprints?

Fingerprints are only available on Tuesdays from 8 a.m. to Noon. Cost is $10 per card. 

6. How do I get help with problems in my neighborhood?

Give the department your information and extra patrol will be added to your residence or business.

7. How do I get my driving record?

You may request it online at Texas.gov, or complete the Application for Copy of Driving Record (PDF) from the Texas Department of Public Safety. Then follow the mailing instructions on the bottom of the form.

8. How do I get my vehicle out of impound?

You have to provide proof of ownership to the impounding wrecker storage facility to obtain your vehicle from the auto impound. The owner of the impounded vehicle must have the following items in order to claim the vehicle:

• State issued picture ID or driver's license
• Certificate of title or bill of sale
• If ownership has changed within the last 30 days, a copy of the computer registration printout from the Department of Motor Vehicles or the title / bill of sale along with current insurance

If someone other than the registered owner is claiming the vehicle they must have:

• Notarized authorization to release the vehicle from the owner
• Legal repossession documentation

9. How do I make a commendation on an officer?

A letter / note may be sent to the attention of Chief of Police at:
110 Justice Center Drive
Forney, TX 75126

You may also complete the online Police Employee Commendation Form or contact the Forney Police Department by calling 972-564-7600.

10. How do I make a complaint on an officer?

You may pick up a complaint form 24 hours a day at the Police Department. You may also download the Complaint Form (PDF) or contact the Forney Police Department by calling 972-564-7600.

11. Where do I get information about my driver's license?

Contact your local Department of Public Safety Office.

12. Where do I get information about my vehicle registration?

Contact your local tax office. For Kaufman County, the Tax Office is located at the Sub-Court House at the corner of Main and Elm Streets in Forney. You may also call them at 972-564-4054.

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1. Who do I contact for after hour emergencies?

For after hour emergencies, please contact Police Dispatch at 972-552-6625. An emergency is defined as:

• Any danger to life, health or property
• Fire hydrant leak
• Manhole overflow
• Meter leak
• No water service
• Sewer back up
• Water main break
• Water service line break

2. How do I request emergency water and sewer services?

To report a water meter leak, please call  972-564-7304 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. To request emergency water turn-off or to report a water service line leak, water main break, fire hydrant leak, clogged or overflowing sewer main during regular business hours, please call 972-564-7340 between the hours of 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

If you need to request emergency services after hours or over the weekend or holiday, you can call Police Dispatch at  972-552-6625 . An emergency is defined as a danger to life, health or property.

3. What is a sanitary sewer?

Wastewater (sewer) is the water that goes down the drains inside our houses and businesses.

4. Is the water tested?

Yes, our drinking water is sampled twice a month and taken to the North Texas Municipal Water District laboratory in Wylie, Texas.

5. What do I do if the water smells, looks or tastes unusual?

You may call the Public Works Department at 972-552-6695 Monday through Friday from7 a.m. to 4 p.m. or use the online service request form.

6. Why does my water taste and smell?

Each summer, usually in late July and into August, Lake Lavon undergoes an "algal bloom," a natural occurring event that is responsible for the taste and odor changes in the water supply. The North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) monitors the onset of an algal bloom through daily algal counts and adjusts the treatment process to reduce the taste and/or odor changes that often occur as a result of this event.

It is important to note that the water remains safe to drink with no health hazards created by this phenomenon.

7. Where does the water we use come from?

Our drinking water is obtained from North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) in Wylie, Texas. The surface water supply is withdrawn from Lake Lavon via pumping stations and piped into one of three water treatment plants located in Wylie, Texas. After treatment, the treated water supply is pumped to the City of Forney for distribution.

8. Who do I contact if a street light is out?

To report a street light out, contact Oncor Electric by calling 888-313-4747 or report it online at Oncor's website.

If you live in the Villages of Fox Hollow Subdivision, Grayhawk Subdivision or Trails of Chestnut Meadow Phase IV, you will need to contact Trinity Valley Electric at 972-932-2214.

If you have trouble with the Oncor website or reporting with Trinity Valley Electric, please email the Public Works Department. Please provide any numbers or pole markings from the street light when reporting the outages.

9. Who do I contact if a street sign is damaged or missing?

You may contact the Public Works Field Operations Department at 972-564-7340 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or use the online service request form.

10. If I want to replace my culvert or add a new culvert, whom do I contact?

You may contact the Public Works Construction Inspections Department at 972-564-7340 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Also, a permit will need to be obtained and approved through Community Development before installation. You may contact Community Development at 972-564-7384.

11. How do I report a pothole problem on a city street?

You may call the Public Works Field Operations Department at 972-564-7340 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or use the online service request form.

12. Who do I contact if I have a drainage problem within the city?

You may call the Public Works Field Operations Department at 972-564-7340 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or use the online service request form.

13. Who do I contact if a tree has fallen in the right of way and is blocking the street, or if a tree limb is blocking the line of sight and needs to be trimmed in the right of way?

You may contact the Public Works Field Operations Department at 972-564-7340 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you need to request emergency services after hours, over the weekend or holiday, you can call Police Dispatch at 972-564-7600. An emergency is defined as a danger to life, health or property.

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1. How do I pay my utility bill?

Discover how to make a utility bill payment via the pay a utility bill webpage.

2. How do I disconnect my service?

Click here to complete the Disconnect Water/Sewer Service Request form.