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1. Who provides animal control services in the City of Chowchilla?

The Chowchilla Police Department provides Animal Control services for the City of Chowchilla. Animal Control complaints should be directed to the police department at 559-665-8600.

2. How do I get a license for my pet?

Pet licenses may be obtained at the Chowchilla Police Department, 122 Trinity Avenue, Chowchilla, CA 93610.

Proof of current rabies vaccination is required to obtain a license. All dogs are required to be licensed with the city as per Chowchilla Municipal Code 6.04.260. Licenses are valid for one year and expire December 31 of each year. The deadline to renew animal licensing is March 31. A late fee will be added to the cost of the license after March 31.

3. What services are provided by Animal Control?

Services provided by the Animal Control Division include pet licensing, patrol, trap rental, and shelter services.

4. Who do I call for animal control services during non-business hours?

The Chowchilla Police Department is open and available for calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If an Animal Control Officer is not available, calls will be handled by a police officer based on priority. If you need to contact an Animal Control Officer call 559-665-8600.

5. Does the City provide any vaccination services?

The City holds a clinic twice a year where rabies vaccinations and animal licenses may be obtained. These normally occur in March and September each year.

6. Who do I contact regarding a barking dog?

Contact the Police Department at 559-665-8600 for assistance with barking dog complaints.

7. Does the City of Chowchilla have a leash law?

Yes, all dogs must be restrained by a leash not to exceed eight feet in length as per Chowchilla Municipal Code 6.04.070.

8. Can I keep my dog tied up or restrained to a stationary object?

No. As per state bill SB 1578, it is illegal to tether, fasten, chain, tie or restrain a dog to a dog house, tree, fence, or other stationary object. The new law states a dog can be attached to a running line, cable, pulley, or trolley system that allows the dog free movement. It is important for public safety and the dog's welfare that a dog be properly and humanely restrained when restraint is required. For more information call the Police Department at 559-665-8600.

9. What do I do about the removal of a dead animal in the street?

Dead animals should be reported to the Chowchilla Police Department at 559-665-8600.

10. How many animals am I allowed to have in the City limits?

A household is allowed to have no more than five dogs over four months old or no more than five cats over six months old as per Chowchilla Municipal Code 6.04.270.

11. What types of animals are considered wild and require a permit?

Non-domesticated animals are considered wild and either require a permit or are not allowed inside City limits as per Chowchilla Municipal Code 6.04.010.

12. Where can I find spaying and neutering services for my animal?

There is a veterinary clinic located in Chowchilla and clinics also nearby in Madera, Merced, and Fresno that provide these services.

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1. Who is required to obtain a business license?

Every person or business engaging in business within the city limits of Chowchilla is required to obtain the proper Business License Certificate for their business. The Chowchilla Municipal Code identifies a business as professions, trades, and occupations (including home occupations), both for profit and non-profit.

2. When do I need a business license?

All businesses must obtain a business license prior to carrying out business transactions. Businesses that move from one location to another are required to submit a new business license application. It is unlawful to operate within the City of Chowchilla without a license.

3. Where do I obtain a business license?

Applications for a business license are available from the Finance Department in:

Chowchilla City Hall
130 S Second Street
Chowchilla, CA 93610

For information, call (559) 665-8615, ext. 783.

4. How long does it take to get a business license?

Once you have provided your completed application along with the appropriate payment, it can take up to ten (10) working days for departmental approval. If the business operates in a structure located within the Chowchilla city limits a fire inspection is required. That can take up to an additional ten (10) working days to process, complete and release the business license.

5. What information is required when applying for a business license?

The following items may be required when applying:

• Board of Equalization account number
• Federal Employment ID number
• Social Security number of applicant if there is no Federal Employment ID number
• Proof of Workers Compensation Insurance
• State Contractors License number (if applicable)
  
• State Employment ID number (if applicable)
• Fictitious Name Certificate or Incorporation paperwork if not using your legal name
• Madera County Health Certificate if handling food

6. What is the cost of a business license?

In accordance with the City Municipal Code Chapter 5, most business license fees are based on your yearly gross sales. The business license fees are listed in the Master Fee Schedule that is available on the City website. A print version can be viewed at the Finance Department in City Hall. Business licenses are due and payable annually.

7. Do I need a business license if I conduct a business out of my home?

Yes. If you are operating the business from your home within the city limits of Chowchilla, you must first obtain a Home Occupation Permit.

8. Do I need to display my business license at my business?

Yes, you must display your annual business license permit for public view as per Chowchilla Municipal Code Title 5.

9. Are business licenses transferable when I purchase an existing business?

No. As a new owner, you must submit your own business license application. If you change the name of your existing business you will be required to submit a new application and pay the appropriate fees.

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1. Where does the City Council hold their meetings?

City Council meetings are conducted in the City Council Chambers in City Hall at 130 S. Second Street, Chowchilla, CA 93610. The City Council also may conduct Town Hall meetings throughout the year at days, times and locations to be decided and posted in accordance with state law.

2. How often does the City Council meet?

Regular City Council meetings are conducted the second and fourth Tuesday of each month beginning at 4:00 PM. Closed sessions, if any, begin at 3:00 PM. Special or emergency meetings can be scheduled when needed on other days and times in accordance with state law.

3. How can I find out what is on the City Council meeting agenda?

A printed version of the next upcoming agenda is available in Chowchilla City Hall and is posted outside in the kiosk adjacent to the front parking lot near the corner of S. Second Street and Trinity Avenue. As required by state law a regular meeting agenda must be posted no less than 72 hours before the start of the meeting, a special meeting agenda must be posted no less than 24 hours before the start of the meeting, and an emergency meeting agenda must be posted no later than 1 hour before the start of the meeting. Current and past meeting agendas and minutes can be viewed on the Agendas & Minutes page.

4. How do I get an item placed on the City Council agenda?

Contact the City Clerk's office at (559) 665-8615, ext. 102, at least 20 days prior to the desired meeting date.

5. How can I address the City Council regarding an item not on the agenda?

At the beginning of each City Council meeting there is a Public Address period when the audience can address the City Council on any item(s) that are not listed on the agenda for consideration/action. Speakers are asked to limit their comments to no more than 3 minutes each. The City Council is prohibited by law from taking any action on matters discussed that are not on the agenda, and no adverse conclusions should be drawn if Council does not respond to any public comments during the Public Address period.

6. Where can I find copies of City Council agendas and minutes?

A public binder that contains the entire agenda packet for the next upcoming City Council meeting is available at the Chowchilla City Hall no less than 72 hours before the next scheduled meeting date. Complete copies of the current and past agendas and minutes can be found on the Agendas & Minutes page.

7. How can I contact the Mayor or City Council Members?

The Mayor and City Council Members do not maintain offices at City Hall. Each member of council has an email address listed on the Council Directory page. Messages and correspondence can also be sent directly to the City Clerk, or mailed or delivered in person to City Hall at 130 S. Second St., Chowchilla, CA 93610. The City Clerk will direct any communications to the appropriate person(s).

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1. What job opportunities are available with the City?

A link to current job opportunities listed on CalOpps is provided on the Human Resources page. 

2. Can I apply for a job with the City at any time?

The City only accepts applications for current vacancies.

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1. Where do I sign up for City utilities?

Sign up for utilities at the Finance Department in City Hall, 130 S Second Street, Chowchilla, during regular business hours. Call (559) 665-8615, ext 783 for more information.

2. What do I need to be able to sign up?

You may view and download the Welcome Packet, or obtain one from the Finance Department in City Hall, or call (559) 665-8615, ext. 783 to have an application faxed or mailed to you. Once you have completed the application, bring it to the Finance Department, along with the following items: rental/lease agreement or escrow closing statement, a copy of your drivers license, passport with picture ID, or California ID card.

3. What do I pay when signing up for services?

After the Finance Department accepts your application, be prepared to pay a security deposit for service per current fee schedule. For more information on this, call the Finance Department at (559) 665-8615, extension 783.

4. Where do I pay for City utility services?

Monthly payments may be mailed to:

Chowchilla City Hall
Attn: Finance Department
130 S Second Street
Chowchilla CA 93610

Payments can be made in-person inside City Hall during regular business hours. 

After regular business hours payments can be placed into the drop box located on the wall of City Hall to the right of the front entrance. Do not leave cash in the drop box.

Online payments can be made using the online bill pay site.

5. What type of payments are accepted for City utilities?

Cash, checks, money orders and Visa or MasterCard are accepted. Online bill payment is now available, view the Bill Pay website to sign up for online service.

6. Is my bill for the current month, past month, or next month?

The City billing system is set up to bill you for the prior month. For example, on March 1, you will receive a bill for February services. You have until the last business day of the month to pay your bill. After that, a 10% penalty will be applied to your account.

7. If I fall behind on my bill, will my service be interrupted?

If you are unable to pay your bill, please call us at (559) 665-8615, ext. 783, or come to the Finance Department at City Hall to discuss the status of payment options.

8. My water has been shut off. What do I do now?

If your water service has been shut off due to non-payment, you must bring your account to current status before service can be reconnected. Contact the Finance Department at (559) 665-8615, extension 783 for information. Making a payment online will not connect your service, you must call in to City Hall. 

9. How do I cancel or make changes to my City utility services?

To terminate or make changes to your water, sewer and trash service, the account holder must submit the appropriate form found on the Finance Department web page, obtain a print version from City Hall, or call the Department at (559) 665-8615, ext. 783 for more options. The account holder remains responsible for the monthly utility services until the proper notification has been submitted and processed by the Finance Department.

10. I still need more information on City utility services - where do I look?

Please refer to the Chowchilla Municipal Code Chapter 13.

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1. How do I report a crime?

In the event of an emergency, please dial 911. For non-emergency situations, please contact the Chowchilla Police Department at 559-665-8600 to report a crime.

2. How do I report information on a crime anonymously?

The Chowchilla Police Department has set up a 24-hour, 7 day-a-week telephone Tip Line for the public to anonymously report illegal conduct. The Tip Line number is 559-665-8624. As always, 911 remains the first number to call in case of emergencies or crimes in progress.

3. How do I obtain a copy of a crime, incident, or traffic report?

Copies of crime, incident, or traffic reports may be obtained at the:

Police Department
122 Trinity Avenue
Chowchilla, CA 93610

There is a charge for this service. For more information, please call the Police Department at 559-665-8600 or Email Public Records.

4. What types of crime prevention information/programs are available in Chowchilla?

Information and programs include Burglary Prevention Tips, Residential Security Tips and Vacation Home Checks. Apply and learn more by viewing the Vacation House Check Form (PDF). Call us at 559-665-8600 or Email Police Records for more information.

5. Is there a crime prevention program specific to businesses?

Members of the Police Department are available to conduct security checks of City businesses. Please contact our department for more information at 559-665-8600 or Email Police Records.

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1. If I wish to file a claim with the City, who do I contact?

You would contact the City Clerk's office at (559) 665-8615, ext. 102 or inquire in person at the:

Chowchilla City Hall
130 S Second Street
Chowchilla, CA 93610

2. Is there a City map available?

City maps are available at the Chowchilla City Hall, 130 S. Second Street, and at the Chowchilla District Chamber of Commerce office. An updated map is also available for on the City Maps page.

3. Where can I get an extra Chowchilla phone book?

The Chowchilla District Chamber of Commerce keeps surplus phone directories (limited amounts) in their office located at:

Chamber of Commerce
137 S Third Street
Chowchilla, CA 93610
Phone: (559) 665-5603

4. Where can I get a voter registration card?

Voter registration applications are available at the:

Chowchilla City Hall
130 S Second Street
Chowchilla, CA 93610

5. Where do I pay my property taxes?

Property tax payments are processed through the Madera County Treasurer/Tax Collector's office located in the County government building at:

200 W 4th Street
2nd floor
Madera, CA 93637
Phone: (559) 675-7715.

6. Where is the Chowchilla Court?

All court business is handled through the Madera County Superior Court Traffic Division located at the County Administration building in Madera.

7. How can I find out how to rent a park pavilion?

City park pavilions are rented on a first-come, first-served basis in-person at the Chowchilla City Hall where a rental form is completed and the appropriate fees paid.

Park pavilions are located in Edward Ray Park (1), Veterans Memorial Park (2) and RC Wisener Park (1). 

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1. How can I obtain a marriage license, birth or death certificate, or passport?

Contact the Madera County Clerk's office at 559-675-7721. The Chowchilla City Clerk does not have that information.

2. Where do I obtain a dog license?

Dog licenses may be obtained at the Chowchilla Police Department. Proof of rabies vaccination is required to receive a license. Check with Animal Control for dates for their two annual rabies and licensing clinics. All dogs in the city limits of Chowchilla are required to be licensed as per city code. There is a minimal charge for this service. For more information view the Animal Control page.

3. What is a building permit needed for?

Permits are not just for new construction, but for remodeling as well. In many cases, a permit is required for repair or replacement of existing features, such as replacing windows. A plumbing, electrical, or mechanical permit is required for any additions or changes to the structure's existing system; for example, moving or adding an electrical outlet requires a permit. Contact the Community and Economic Development Department at 559-665-8615, ext. 787 or Email Community and Economic Development for further information.

4. Do I need a permit for making repairs to my appliances?

Repairs do not always require a permit, but replacing items such as furnaces, air conditioners, and heaters do require a permit. To be sure, contact the Community and Economic Development Department at 559-665-8615, extension 787 or Email Community and Economic Development.

5. How much does a permit cost?

Permit costs vary depending on the type of work being done. Contact the Community and Economic Development Department at 559-665-8615, extension 787 for specific permit costs.

6. How long does it take to obtain a permit?

Permit issuance periods vary. Some permits can be issued over the counter, meaning return trips will not be necessary. Other projects require that plans be left with the department for review.

7. Can I perform work in the public right-of-way?

You must obtain an encroachment permit prior to working in the public right-of-way. You may obtain this permit at the Community and Economic Development Department:

Chowchilla Civic Center
130 S Second Street
Civic Center Plaza
Chowchilla, CA 93610

8. What other types of things do I need permits for?

Permits are required in the City of Chowchilla for other things such as banners, special events, fireworks, RV parking, yard sales, alcohol use at events, and transportation. For further information call the Civic Center at 559-665-8615.

9. Do I need a permit to drain my swimming pool?

You must first obtain a permit prior to draining refilling any swimming pool at any time during the year. Applications are available at the Finance/Utilities window of the:

Chowchilla Civic Center
130 S Second Street
Civic Center Plaza
Chowchilla CA, 93610
Phone: 559-665-8615, ext. 783

10. How can I find information regarding fees throughout the City?

A fee schedule is available from the city pertaining to specific fees per department. You can view the Master Fee Schedule by clicking here, or call the City of Chowchilla at (559) 665-8615 for information.

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1. Why would I use online bill payments?

Our new online bill payment option saves you time and gives you more flexibility in how you pay your bill. If you have an internet connection and an email address, you can now pay your bill online. It’s fast, it’s easy, and you no longer have to write a check each month or find a stamp when it’s time to send in your payment.

2. How does online bill pay work?

We have partnered with Xpress Bill Pay, the premier provider for online bill payment systems. When you sign up for online bill payment you get a unique password that you use to access your personal account at Xpress Bill Pay. Every month we’ll send you a reminder email to let you know when your bill is online. Then, just log in through your Web browser and view your bill, which will look like the paper statement you’re familiar with. Select a payment type - credit card, debit card, or electronic funds transfer - enter the information, and you’re done! It’s that easy, and it only takes you a few minutes each month.

3. How do I sign up for online bill pay?

1. Visit the Xpress Bill Pay website. We have partnered with Xpress Bill Pay to provide you with online bill payment service.
2. Select Create a free account, if you’ve already signed up with Xpress Bill Pay, you can log in with your email address and password.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen. You will need a valid email address to create an account. Once you’ve submitted your information, you will receive a default password by email.
4. Go back to the Xpress Bill Pay website and log in using your email address and password. The “Add e-Bills” page appears, follow the instructions on the screens to add us to your Xpress Bill Pay account.

Once you’ve created an account, you’ll be able to go online at any time to view and pay your bills.

4. Does it cost anything to sign up for online bill payment?

No. It's free to sign up for online bill payment and to use the service.

5. What is Xpress Bill Pay?

Xpress Bill Pay is the company we have partnered with to handle our online bill payment. You access your account from their website, Xpress Bill Pay.

6. What payment choices do I have?

You can pay your bills with a credit or debit card, or you can transfer funds directly from your checking account.

7. What will my bill look like online?

We try to match the look of your paper statement as much as possible, so you'll find it easy to read your bill onscreen.

8. What other information is available?

You can view up to a year's history of your account online, so you can compare your current bill to a year ago.

9. Do I need to pay my bills from my computer?

Not at all. You can pay your bill from anywhere in the world! All you need is access to the Internet through a web browser. You then log in to your account using your email address and password. No need to worry about late payments if you're out of town when your bill is due.

10. How do I know the payment went through?

After you complete the transaction, you can receive an email receipt to confirm that your payment went through.

11. Is my information safe?

Absolutely. All the transactions are handled on secure servers. As long as you don't give out your password, only you will be able to access your account. Plus, your personal information or email address will not be sold or rented to third parties for marketing purposes without your permission.

12. Which City payments can I make online?

Currently, only utility bill payments are being accepted online. In the future, we will be adding other services that can be paid through the Xpress Bill Pay website, such as building permit and business license fees.

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1. Does everyone have to comply with backflow regulations?

Yes, because of the federal and state mandate regarding backflow prevention and because it serves as a way of protecting the water supply, it is imperative that all customers have backflow prevention devices.

2. Why is the City responsible for enforcing the rules on backflow since they are State of California’s rules?

The EPA enforces the backflow regulations by delegating the responsibility to the State of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).  The CEQA enforces the backflow regulations by requiring the City to administer the backflow program locally.  The City is inspected annually by the CEQA to determine if the City is administering the program according to regulations.

3. We have been here all these years and never had to do anything about backflow before. Why do I have to do this now?

 As state and federal regulations protecting drinking water grow more stringent, it is imperative that water systems keep up. Because the end-users, which are the customers, can individually impact the drinking water system, they must be a part of the solution in preventing backflow.

4. Can my home or business be “grandfathered” in for the backflow devices?

There is no “grandfathering” of backflow devices which are out of compliance with current regulations.  The State considers backflow regulations to be a health and safety issue.  These issues must be addressed in a timely matter for the safety of the public water supply and the health of our customers.

5. Must my home or business have backflow prevention?

Many businesses must install and maintain backflow prevention devices. Common examples are manufacturing facilities, process plants, medical facilities, restaurants, laboratories including school chemistry and biology labs), and buildings with boilers, fire sprinkler systems and irrigation systems. Usually residential facilities are exempt from the rule unless a specific cross-connection is identified. For example, single-family residences with a lawn irrigation system require backflow prevention. Multi-family residences with a boiler or fire sprinkler system require backflow prevention.

6. How would a backflow issue occur with a lawn irrigation system?

A backflow issue exists if a lawn irrigation sprinkler malfunctions and a city water main breaks at the same time. When the water pressure drops, it creates a vacuum that sucks some water, which may be contaminated, into the city water supply. An example of this situation would be if a homeowner found worms, along with rust, and other debris in his bathtub when he filled the tub. These contaminants came into the water system after a contractor installed a sprinkler system and used an unapproved atmospheric vacuum breaker. When the sprinkler system malfunctioned and the city water main broke, it created the suction that pushed the contaminated water into the bathtub.

7. Who do I call to report sidewalk problems, potholes or damaged roadways?

Call the Public Works Department at 559-665-8615, extension 789 to report these problems or Email Public Works.

8. Why doesn't the City do more complete road repairs rather than simply patching the potholes?

Due to budget restrictions, the City of Chowchilla cannot always do complete street reconstruction. The City has been maintaining City streets using a chip seal procedure. In most cases, reconstruction costs approximately five times more than chip sealing. Filling potholes can prevent further deterioration of a street until such time reconstruction can be accomplished.

9. Who do I contact if a street light needs repair?

Call the Public Works Department at 559-665-8615, ext. 789. When you call, please provide the number posted on the street lighting pole. If you do not have the pole number, please provide the location and closest address available when you report it. Public Works will then refer it to the responsible agency.

10. Who is responsible for routine maintenance of sidewalk, curb, gutter and street trees?

Routine maintenance is the property owner's responsibility. For sidewalk and curb repairs or problems with street trees, please contact the Public Works Department at 559-665-8615, extension 789 or Email Public Works.

11. Where do I call to report water leaks or a broken hydrant?

Call the Public Works Department at 559-665-8615, extension 789 or Email Public Works. If problem occurs on a weekend or an emergency situation exists, please call 559-647-9138.

12. Who do I call if I have a sewer blockage in the line that is not on my property?

The Chowchilla Municipal Code Number 13.12.065 Section E states in part that "House branch sewer, including their connection to sewer mains, shall not be considered as City property or become a part of the City sewer system, and their maintenance and repair shall not be provided by the City." If you experience a problem that you feel is the City's responsibility, please call the Public Works Department at 559-665-8615, extension 789 or Email Public Works. If problem occurs on a weekend or an emergency situation exists, please call the 559-647-9138.

13. Where do I report an abandoned vehicle?

If the vehicle is on the street or in an alley, call the Police Department at 559-665-8600. If the vehicle is on private property, contact the Code and Zone Enforcement Division of the Community and Economic Development Department in the Chowchilla Civic Center by calling 559-665-8615, extension 787 or Email Code Enforcement.

14. Who do I call about graffiti problems?

Please call the Chowchilla Police Department at 559-665-8600. If you observe someone actually in the act of "tagging," please call the Police Department immediately.

15. Where do I report illegal trash dumping or fire hazards?

Contact Code Enforcement at 559-665-8615, extension 787 or Email Code Enforcement. To report someone in the act of illegal dumping, please call the Police Department at 559-665-8600. If an emergency situation exists, call 911 immediately.

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1. Do I need my own solid waste containers?

No, the City of Chowchilla has a franchise service agreement with Mid Valley Disposal for solid waste services and they provide the containers.

2. Who do I call if I need solid waste containers or have a question about pickup service?

Call the City Finance Department Utilities Division at 559-665-8615, ext. 783 with your questions or concerns.

3. Who do I contact if my containers do not get picked up?

Call the City Finance Department Utilities Division at 559-665-8615, extension 783. If this is a billing concern, they will assist you. If there is another problem, they may refer you to Mid Valley Disposal at 559-665-3099.

4. Who do I contact for solid waste service billing?

Call the City Finance Department Utilities Division at 559-665-8615, extension 783 for billing assistance. Please do not call Mid Valley Disposal for billing items.

5. What is my trash collection day?

To learn about your trash collection day view the Chowchilla Solid Waste Collection Schedule and Map (PDF).

6. Where should I place my containers on collection day and where can I store them on other days?

• Containers should be placed next to the curb (or edge of street if no curb is available) on your scheduled day of collection.
  
• Containers must be removed from the street by Noon midnight on the collection day.
  
• All containers must be stored behind the front yard on non-collection days per the Chowchilla Municipal Code Section 8.04.020.

7. What can I place into my black container?

Your black container is for regular garbage items such as food waste, styrofoam, toys, diapers, clothing, animal waste, etc. For more specific requirements, call Mid Valley Disposal at 559-665-3099. Please understand that violations may result in penalties.

8. What can I place into my blue container?

Your blue container is for recyclables such as paper, aluminum cans, cardboard, newspaper, glass, plastic, etc. For more specific requirements, call Mid Valley Disposal at 559-665-3099. Please understand that violations may result in penalties.

9. What can I place into my green container?

Your green container is for green waste such as leaves, branches, lawn and yard clippings, wood (cut into small pieces), plants, etc. For more specific requirements, call Mid Valley Disposal at 559-665-3099. Please understand that violations may result in penalties.

10. What can I do with waste that does not fit into my container?

The City of Chowchilla will work with you to help address your particular needs. You can request an additional trash pick-up for a fee, or for a long-term renovation project you can also arrange to have a roll-off dumpster placed on-site, also for an additional fee. Call the City Finance Department Utilities Division at 559-665-8615, ext. 783 to make arrangements or for more information.

11. What do I do with my leaves?

Leaves should not be raked into piles in the street. All leaves should be placed in your green container and placed out for pickup on your regular collection day.

12. Does the City have a recycling program?

Yes, contact Mid Valley Disposal at 559-665-3099 for information on recycling programs.

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1. How Can I Get a Ride With CATX?

To schedule a ride with CATX call 559-665-8655 between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. You must call no less than two hours before your needed appointment time to schedule a ride. When you call be prepared to provide the following information:

• Address where you are to be picked up
  
• Address where you want to go
  
• How many people will be traveling with you
  
• If you have a special need
  
• If you need a return trip
  
• A phone number where you can be reached
  
• When you want to be picked up, or your appointment time, if applicable

You will be given an estimated pick-up time and you must be ready to go at that time. The bus can not wait for you longer than one minute. If you decide you don't need a ride please call early to cancel your appointment. Please understand that if a bus is full your ride may have to be denied when making your appointment. It is best to schedule your appointment as far in advance as possible.

2. Can I Get Regularly Scheduled Trips With CATX?

You can make reservations for regularly scheduled pick-ups (same time each day of week) by calling CATX. Your trip will continue automatically until you ask for a change or cancellation. It is important that you call to cancel when you do not need a ride. If you do not show up three times for your subscription trip without calling to cancel, you will be dropped from the CATX list.

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1. Why are there watering regulations?

State-wide drought conditions have persisted for years and even with the occasional above-average rainfall season, water conservation has become a necessity. Conserving water also helps alleviate low water pressure and helps reduce electrical energy usage which is beneficial for our environment. In order to assist in the preservation of water, a precious resource, the City of Chowchilla has designated specific watering days and times. Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.

2. My address ends in a 1/2, what are my watering days?

You would use the very last number before the 1/2 in your address. For example, a resident with an address of 1309-1/2 may water on the days for odd numbered addresses and an address of 1308-1/2 may water on the days for even numbered addresses.  Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.

3. Are there certain hours I am allowed to water?

Yes. For the current water schedule Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.

4. Do I have to use sprinklers or can I leave my garden hose running?

Using an open flowing hose to irrigate landscape, trees, flowers, lawns, gardens, etc. is prohibited and property residents must attach and use a shutoff nozzle. Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.

5. When am I allowed to wash my car?

You may wash your vehicle on any of your designated watering days during the allowed watering times as long as you use a restricting nozzle on your hose. Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.

6. Why do I sometimes see watering on non-watering days or beyond specified hours?

This rarely is allowed but occasionally new landscaping, sod, or ground cover is planted that requires more frequent watering or special circumstances occur that require alternate watering times. When this occurs, a special water use permit is obtained from the City. Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.

7. Can I get a special use permit to water on my off days?

It depends. You should contact the Public Works Department at (559) 665-8615, ext. 789 for the most up-to-date information. Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.

8. Who do I contact to report violators?

It is best to Email Public Works to report a watering violation so that the City has a record of the report. Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.

9. I received a violation warning notice do I have to pay a fee?

First offense violators will receive a warning notice by mail that does not include any violation fee. Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.

10. What are the violation fees after a warning is given?

After a first offense warning, there are fines and subsequent penalties that increase with repeat offenses. For specifics contact the Public Works Department at (559) 665-8615, ext. 789. Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.

11. Do I need a permit to drain my swimming pool?

You must first obtain a permit prior to draining any swimming pool at any time during the year. Contact the Public Works Department at (559) 665-8615, ext. 789 for information. Click HERE to go to the Public Works Water Service page.

Show All Answers

1. Do I need a permit to hold a yard sale?

Yes, you need to obtain a Yard Sale Permit Application (PDF) from the:

Finance/Utilities Department
Chowchilla City Hall
130 S Second Street
Chowchilla, CA 93610

The yard sale is limited to the permit location only.

2. Is there a fee for this permit?

There is no fee for a permit to conduct a yard sale for the first three sales per calendar year. A fee of $16 will be charged for each additional yard sale in the calendar year (up to six total maximum per year) as per City Ordinance Number 408-98. All fees are payable at the time the permit application is filed. Fees paid are not refundable.

3. How long before my yard sale should I obtain a permit?

Permits are requested to be submitted at least 72 hours prior to the date of the yard sale in order to allow review and processing time.

4. Is there a limit to the number of yard sales I can have in one year?

Yes. The maximum number of yard sales is six per year.

5. How many consecutive days can I hold a yard sale?

Each yard sale is limited to a maximum of three consecutive days.

6. Are there specific hours I can have a yard sale?

Sales held in the front or side yards are limited to 8 AM to 8 PM. All items must be removed from the yard no later than 8 PM of each day of the sale.

7. What types of items may I sell?

Only personal property may be sold. This may include clothing, equipment, furniture, etc. No property is to be acquired or consigned for the purpose of resale at your yard sale.

8. My non-profit organization wants to hold a sale; do the same rules apply?

In the case of churches, public schools, fraternal organizations and other non-profit entities, six sales per calendar year are allowed. For charitable purposes, the sale may be conducted on the premises or in building of said organization or other buildings with the submission of written permission of the property owner and approval by the City Administrator, with the recommendation of the Community and Economic Development Department. A sale may be held at a residence for the above listed groups, which will then constitute the permitted sale. Each sale is limited to no more than three consecutive days.

9. What kind of signs can I put up to advertise my yard sale?

Two free standing signs may be posted, subject to the written permission of the property owner on which the sale will take place. Said signs shall not exceed six square feet in size. No signs are permitted within the public right-of-way or affixed to utility poles, street signs, or similar facilities used for public purposes as per Chowchilla Municipal Code 9.12.030. Notwithstanding the above, no sign may be posted in any place other than the property where yard sale is to be conducted.