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Bids

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1. How can I be placed on the City's bid list?

If you are a vendor and would like to be placed on the City’s bid list to be notified of bid opportunities, please complete and return our vendor application. For information on current bid opportunities please contact us at (336)222-5019. Vendor Application

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Burlington Connected

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1. How do I report a concern?

To report neighborhood concerns and service requests such as overgrown lots, graffiti, potholes or other issues please call Burlington Connected at (336)222-5024. You can also use an online form to submit your request, or download the Burlington Connected App. Report a concern online

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Emergency Management

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1. What is a watch, warning and advisory?

Watch
A Watch is a product issued by the NWS (National Weather Service) indication that a particular hazard is possible, i.e., conditions are more favorable than usual for its occurrence. A watch is a recommendation for planning, preparation, and increased awareness (i.e., to be alert for changing weather, listen for further information, and think about what to do if danger materializes).

Warning
A Warning is a product issued by the NWS (National Weather Service) indication weather hazard is either imminent or has been reported. A warning indicates the need to take action to protect life and property. The type of hazards is reflected in the type of warning (e.g., tornado warnings, blizzard warnings).

Advisory
An advisory is a product issued by the NWS (National Weather Service) that highlights special weather conditions that are less serious than a warning. An advisory is for events that may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to situations that may cause threatened life and/or property.

2. What is a "white-out"?

An official definition for 'white-out' does not exist. It is a colloquial term that can describe any condition during snowfall that severely restricts visibility. That may mean a blizzard, or snow squall, etc. If you get some sunlight in the mix, that makes the situation even worse - it's like driving in fog with your headlights on high beam. The light gets backscattered right into your face and you can't see.

3. Is there any way to find out, which Weather Forecasting Office serves my area?

To locate the Weather Forecast Office that serves your area, go to: http://weather.gov/organization.php

4. Can I visit my local NWS office?

Visiting your local NWS Forecasting Office is something that is not only allowed, but also encouraged. Unfortunately, there are times when this might not be possible. As you know, NWS offices are very busy places, especially during severe weather events. The NWS is usually able to accommodate an individual's request to see the office, but would like to set this set up in advance as much as possible. They can often accommodate unannounced "walk-ins", but they are at the visitor's "own risk". The NWS does not schedule formal tours from March 15 through June 15th because of severe weather demands.

5. What are "degree days?"

Heating and cooling degree days are calculated by using the average temperature for the day, the high + low, and subtracting the average or mean temperature from the number 65 for heating degree days or subtracting 65 from the average for cooling degree days. The number 65 is used as the base number because most buildings and homes would be most comfortable and energy efficient at our around 65 degrees.

Example: On a summer day the high was 90 and the low 70. The average is 80. 80 (average) - 65 (base) = 15 cooling degree-days. It reflects how much power people should be using on the average to cool, in this case their homes/businesses. Take those daily cooling degree days and you can have daily/monthly or annual averages

6. Where can I find current and historical weather data?

One central web site you should check for current weather and data products at: http://lwf.ncdc.noaa.gov/oa/ncdc.html

7. How can I be prepared when Disaster Strikes?

Disaster can strike quickly and without warning. It can force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. What would you do if basic services--water, gas, electricity or telephones--were cut off? Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster, but they cannot reach everyone right away. Therefore, the best way to make your family and your home safer is to be prepared before disaster strikes. Learn more on how to be prepared for Disastrous situations here

8. What does shelter-in-place mean?

One of the instructions you may be given in an emergency where hazardous materials may have been released into the atmosphere is to shelter-in-place. This is a precaution aimed to keep you safe while remaining indoors. (This is not the same thing as going to a shelter in case of a storm.) Shelter-in-place means selecting a small, interior room, with no or few windows, and taking refuge there. It does not mean sealing off your entire home or office building.

9. What is a family disaster plan?

Where will your family be when disaster strikes? They could be anywhere…at Work, at School, or in the car. How will you find each other? Will you know if your children are safe? Learn more here

10. What is a Disaster Supplies Kit?

There are six basics you should stock for your home: water, food, first aid supplies, clothing and bedding, tools and emergency supplies, and special items. Keep the items that you would most likely need during an evacuation in an easy-to carry container. Possible containers include a large, covered trash container, a camping backpack, or a duffle bag.

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Fire

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1. How do I register my fire alarm?

You can find a fire alarm registration form online here: https://www.burlingtonnc.gov/forms.aspx?FID=80

http://burlingtonnc.gov/alarms

2. How do I become a firefighter?

View our

Recruitment Brochure

3. How do I schedule a tour?

Fill out a Station Tour Request Form

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Garbage and Recycling

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1. Who do I contact with recycling concerns?

Please call Waste Industries at (336)229-0525.

2. My garbage cart was not collected. What do I do?

When placing the roll-out container to the curb, please make sure it is:
At least five (5) feet away from other objects and containers.
Placed away from mailboxes.
Facing the correct direction.
Not blocked by vehicles.
Not placed under low hanging wires or limbs.
Placed at the curb with the arrows on the lid pointing towards the street.

This practice allows the arms on the automated truck to grasp the container properly.Please call the Sanitation Division at (336)222-5111.

3. How do I recycle electronics?

The Discarded Computer Equipment and Television Management Law, otherwise known as the E-Waste Ban took effect July 1, 2011. This ban regulates the disposal of electronic equipment. This ban no longer allows landfill disposal of electronics and computers. These items can no longer be placed in your regular trash and must be taken to a proper electronic recycling site:
TVs
Modems
Electronic Games
Telephone Systems
VCRs
Desktop Computers
Mobile Phones
Uninterruptible Power Supplies
Stereos
Servers
MP3 Players
Printed Circuit Boards
Tape Players
Laptops / Docking Stations
PDAs
Routers
Radios
Automated Typewriters
Portable Calculators
Power and Network Cables
Fax Machines
Copy Machines
Network Hubs
DVD and CD Players
CD-ROM Drivers
Controllers
Telephones
Hard Drives
Switching Boxes
Rechargeable Batteries

Quarterly, the City of Burlington holds FREE E-Waste Recycling days in order to give its citizens an option to keep Electronic Waste out of landfills as per the State Ban. Visit E-Waste Recycling

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Leaf Collection

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1. Where can I find the loose leaf collection schedule?

The City of Burlington attempts each Fall and Winter to serve residents efficiently through the annual leaf collection. You may obtain additional schedules at the Municipal Building located at 425 South Lexington Avenue or call the Public Works Department at 222-5005 to request that a schedule be mailed to you. Schedules will also be published in the Times-News during the months of October and November.

Receive reminders (calls, texts, or emails) about Leaf Collection pick up dates by subscribing to the "Waste/Recycling/Leaf Collection Updates" list on Btown Notify Me.

Visit www.burlingtonnc.gov/leafcollection

2. Who can I call with questions about collection?

Questions concerning leaf collection should be directed to the Cemetery Division at 222-5005. Please do not a request special pick-up until February. Thank you for your cooperation.

3. Where can I find my collection zone?

Use ReGIS to find your zone here

4. When is loose leaf collection?

Collection begins in late October and runs through January, with collection continuing into February on a convenience schedule.

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Licenses

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1. How do I obtain a marriage license?

Marriage License:
Register of Deeds
118 W. Harden Street
Graham, NC 27253
336-570-6565

2. How do I register to vote?

Register To Vote:
Board of Elections
115 S. Maple St.
Graham NC 27253
336-570-6755

3. How do I obtain a birth certificate?

Birth Certificate:
Register of Deeds
118 W. Harden Street
Graham, NC 27253
336-570-6565

4. Do I need a privledge license?

Due to recent state legislation eliminating the ability of municipalities to assess privilege license taxes, the City of Burlington has changed its licensing process and schedule.

Existing Businesses:
As of June 30, 2015, businesses will no longer need a license, with the exception of beer/wine privilege license holders.

New Businesses:
At this time, the city will discontinue issuing new privilege licenses.
Zoning and Building requirements still apply to all businesses.

Exceptions:
Businesses that hold beer/wine privilege or taxi-cab licenses are not affected by the new state legislation and must still hold a license to operate in Burlington.

5. How do I obtain a Taxicab Owners Operators License?

Application for Taxicab Owners Operators License for the City of Burlington: Taxicab Owners Operators License

6. Who do I speak with regarding license questions?

Contact the Tax Department at (336)222-5120

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Link Transit

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1. Where can I find more information about the bus system?

Visit www.linktransit.org

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Mayor and Council

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1. How do I request a commemorative document from the City?

The Mayor and City Council often receive requests from citizens for City Proclamations, Letters of Congratulations and various other commemorative City documents by which individuals, organizations, or events are recognized. By completing and submitting the City of Burlington Commemorative Document Request Form, city officials can provide these documents for citizens in a more accurate, meaningful, and efficient manner.

2. Are meetings recorded?

Yes. You can stream them online

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Police

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1. Where do I pay my parking ticket?

Payments for parking tickets may be made at the City of Burlington Municipal Annex Building 237 West Maple Avenue, Burlington NC during the hours of 8am to 5pm, Monday-Friday or by mail to the City of Burlington, P.O. Box 1358, Burlington, NC 27216-1358.

Questions concerning parking tickets should be directed to the City of Burlington Police Department at 336-229-3500.

2. How do I file a complaint?

To register a complaint, follow the guidelines below:

Contact the Burlington Police Department either in person or by phone at 336-229-3500. Ask to speak with the on-duty supervisor.

Report the complaint to the on-duty supervisor. The on-duty supervisor will need the details of your complaint and will also need your full name, address, telephone number and other information that may be important.

The on-duty supervisor may have to complete a Burlington Police Department Complaint Report after you have spoken to them. If a report is required, the complaint will be forwarded to the appropriate personnel for further investigation.

A representative of the Burlington Police Department will contact you for further information that may be necessary to complete the investigation of your complaint Registering a Complaint

3. How do I obtain a funeral escort in the City of Burlington?

Contact the Burlington Police Department at 336-229-3503 Monday through Friday between 8:00 A.M. and 7 P.M. or all other times contact 336-229-3500. Please have the location and time to meet along with the destination for the procession.

4. Where can I get my child's safety seat checked?

Contact the Burlington Fire Department at the Headquarters Fire Station located at 215 S. Church St., Burlington, NC or 336-229-3558 or the Burlington Police Department Traffic Section at 336-513-5440.

5. How do I hire extra duty officers for a special event?

Extra Duty Solutions can be reached at (336) 290-2616 or by email at BurlingtonNC@ExtraDutySolutions.com

6. How do I obtain information on an on-going investigation from a detective?

Contact Criminal Investigations Division at 336-229-3530.

7. How do I obtain a Domestic Violence Protective Order?

Contact Family Abuse Services at 226-5982 or appear in person during normal business hours at 1950 Martin St., Burlington, NC

8. How do I contact the Magistrates Office?

For the Burlington Office call 336-229-3508 (Press 1). For the Graham Office call 336-570-5219.

9. How can I particpate in the Safe Exchange Program?

Safe Exchange is primarily a court ordered program to assist families in transferring children between parents after visitations. Participants should contact the Supervised Visitation Coordinator at Family Abuse Services located at 1950 Martin St., Burlington (336-226-7433) for an intake visit. Upon approval, exchanges occur at the Burlington Police Department located at 267 West Front Street, Burlington, NC.

10. How do I register for emergency alerts?

Register for A.C.E. Alerts

11. How do I request a Police Department talk or tour?

Contact (336) 229-3540 if you would like to schedule a tour of the Burlington Police Department or if you would like to have someone from our department come to your facility to speak on a specific safety topic.

Please bear in mind that our officers/employees may only travel to locations within the City of Burlington, however, anyone is welcome to tour our Police Department.
We kindly ask that you make your request at least two weeks in advance. We appreciate having the time to prepare for your group.

12. Can I cut on water service after normal business hours?

Contact the Burlington Police Department at 336-229-3500.

13. How can I receive a copy of a citation?

Contact the Clerk of Courts office at 212 West Elm St., Graham, NC or at 336-570-5200

14. How do I receive court date information?

Contact the Alamance County District Attorney’s office at 336-570-5210.

15. What is done with lost or found property?

Property turned in as found to the Burlington Police Department is held for 180 days from the time of submission. If the property is not claimed by the owner, the finder can then claim the property.

Found bicycles are held for 60 days, and then must be advertised for 30 days prior to releasing to the finder. The finder is required to sign a waiver prior to release of any item.

Contraband turned in is destroyed per policy.

16. How can I claim property seized as evidence?

In order to claim property seized as evidence in a criminal case, authorization is obtained from the District Attorney or Officer involved in the case and/or the owner must have a court order.
Please call 336-229-3524 to see what is required in your particular case as circumstances vary per case.

17. Will you vacation check my residence?

Yes. Please apply in person at the Burlington Police Department.

18. How do I access accident reports?

Reports may be obtained through the records division (336) 229-3521 or online

19. How do i obtain a background check?

Contact the Clerk of Superior Court at 212 West Elm St., Graham, NC or at 336-570-5200

20. How can I view crime date or call history of an address or neighborhood?

View online through RaidOnline

21. How do I apply for employment with the Burlington Police Department?

The Burlington Police Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Apply online by visiting www.BurlingtonNC.gov/HR

22. How do I obtain an application for the Burlington Police Department to sponsor me in Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET)?

Angela Satterfield is the department’s Personnel Specialist. Please direct BLET sponsorship inquires to her at 336-229-3535

23. How do I obtain assistance with an undisciplined or delinquent juvenile?

If the issue is an emergency, call 911.

Residents may contact the Burlington Police Department at 336-229-3500 or contact the Criminal Investigation Division at 336-229-3530.

The Alamance County Gang Task Force (ACGTF) can assist with prevention and intervention strategies for juveniles that are involved in gang activity or becoming involved in gang activity. The ACGTF can be contacted at 336-570-4180.

The Alamance County Division of Juvenile Justice located at 126 W. Elm St., Graham, NC could also be of assistance and they can be contacted at 336-570-6872.

24. How do I get finger prints for an employment application?

Fingerprinting is done through the Records Section of the Burlington Police Department. It is available Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm. By appointment only. There is a $10.00 fee payable by cash or check only. Payment must be exact as we do not give out change. Click here for more information.

25. How do I apply for a handgun permit?

Contact the Alamance County Sheriff’s Office at 109 South Maple Street, Graham, NC or call 336-570-6388.

26. How do I apply for a concealed carry permit?

Contact the Alamance County Sheriff’s Office at 109 South Maple Street, Graham, NC or call 336-570-6388

27. How do I apply for a solicitation permit? (Door to Door)

Contact the City of Burlington at 336-222-5000. 

Applicants must then have finger prints taken at the Burlington Police Department ($10.00) before applying for a Solicitation Permit. Please bring a photo ID.

Solicitation permits are obtained at the Burlington Municipal Annex Building, 237 W. Maple Avenue. 

To obtain a Solicitation Permit, applicants will need the following:

1) Type of vehicle and model

 2) State and License Plate number of vehicle

 3) Description of vehicle, including color and type

 4) Two passport photos

5) $5.00 Solicitation Permit Fee

28. How can I get more information on the District Attorney's Worthless Check Program?

Contact the District Attorney’s Office at 336-570-5210.

29. How do I report a problem or issue?

CrimeStoppers 336-229-7100

Junk Cars or Abandoned Cars parked in the neighbor. Contact the Burlington Connected tip line at (336) 222-5024 or online at Burlington Connected

Neighborhood Issues – Contact the Burlington Connected tip line at (336) 222-5024 or online at Burlington Connected or the Burlington Police Department at 336-229-3500

Drug Activity - Contact the Burlington Connected tip line at (336) 222-5024 or online at Burlington Connected, the Burlington Police Department at 336-229-3500 or the Criminal Investigation Division at 336-229-3530.

30. How do I report junk or abandoned cars?

You can report abandoned or junk cars in your neighborhood by calling the tip line at (336) 222-5024 or online at Burlington Connected.

31. Where can I report issues in my neighborhood?

If you would like to report suspicious activity or general neighborhood issues, you can contact the city of Burlington tip line at (336) 229-5024 or online at Burlington Connected. You can also contact the Burlington Police Department at (336) 229-3500. You can also report criminal activity anonymously to County-wide Crimestoppers at (336) 229-7100 with a chance for a monetary reward for useful information.

32. How can I report drug activity?

You can report drug activity to the city of Burlington's tip line at (336) 222-5024 or online at Burlington Connected. You can also contact the Burlington Police Department at (336) 229-3500. To report activity anonymously, contact county-wide Crimestoppers at (336) 229-7100. There is a possibility for a monetary reward for useful information.

33. Where can I report graffiti?

You can report graffiti to the city tip line at (336) 229-5024 or online at Burlington Connected. You can also contact the police department at (336) 229-3500.

34. What are you doing for Police Reform?

The Burlington Police Department has compiled a list of the resources and reforms we have been implementing.

You can read more about them here.

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Public Information and media

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1. Do you have a social media policy?

Yes. Please review the policy here

2. How can I receive updates from the City?

A great way to stay connected is to register for BTown NotifyMe. You can sign up for general notifications here

3. How do I make a public records request?

The Office of Public Information facilitates the fulfillment of Public Records Requests. A request for Public Records can be made through any means and the requester need not specify the cause for the request.

Please call 222-5076, email the Public Information Officer, Rachel Kelly at rkelly@burlingtonnc.gov or visit Suite 204 of the Municipal Annex Building located at 237 West Maple Avenue. in downtown Burlington to make a request for Public Records.

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Recreation

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1. I am planning a special event. Where do I start?

Refer to the City of Burlington Special Events Manual and Permit Guide

2. How do I rent a park or facility?

The Burlington Recreation and Parks Department offers many different rental opportunities for the public. There are a variety of spaces to accommodate your event. View the facilities here

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Snow Removal

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1. What does the City do to prepare for winter weather?

When snow is in the forecast, crews apply a salt brine solution to major thoroughfares 48 to 72 hours in advance of predicted precipitation. The brine helps prevent snow from sticking to the pavement and makes plowing and additional salting more effective.

The Police Department, Fire Department, and road crews check vehicles and equipment and put emergency staff on stand-by notice in case they are needed.

The City begins sharing weather-related closings or service modifications via social media using #AlamanceSnow and via our website at www.BurlingtonNC.gov/WinterWX.

2. How does the City determine which streets are cleared first?

Major thoroughfares vital to emergency services are cleared first, followed by secondary thoroughfares. These secondary thoroughfares are streets that are both heavily traveled and provide access to major thoroughfares.  Residential streets are plowed only after the main priority streets have been cleared. The order in which residential streets are plowed is determined by the City's sanitation schedule. Streets on the next scheduled sanitation route will be cleared first.

To keep our snow removal operations as effective and efficient as possible, plows are not permitted to deviate from their assigned routes. Any life-treating situations will be addressed by appropriate emergency services personnel.

3. What equipment does the City of Burlington have for snow removal?

As we typically only experience a few winter storms a year, the City uses dump trucks affixed with scrapper blades to plow the streets. We have 18 “snow plows” and 2 motor graders available. 

4. What about the snow pile the City trucks leave at the end of my driveway?

When snowplows clear the streets in your area, extra snow can collect along the curb and in driveways. Since it would drastically slow the snow removal process, our crews are not able to remove snow from residential or commercial driveway entrances, parking lots, or sidewalks. If needed, please shovel off the extra snow in your driveway and place it near the curb or in your yard. If you put it back in the street, plows could push it back into your driveway when they come by again.

5. Will the City scrape sidewalks?

No. Sidewalks are the responsibility of the resident.

6. What can I do to help my neighbors?

Able-bodied residents are strongly encouraged to assist elderly and disabled neighbors in opening up their walks and driveways for them. The easiest way to do this is to offer to help if you know you have neighbors or community members that could use a helping hand.

7. A snowplow hit my mailbox, now what?

We are sorry! Sometimes mailboxes are a causality of snow removal. We’ll take your name and number and contact your after the snow event. Call 336-222-5005 and leave your information.

8. I live on a cul-de-sace and I haven't been plowed out yet. Why not?

There are about 350 cul-de-sacs in the City and removing snow from these lower-volume streets in the beginning of a snow event would prevent the City from clearing higher-volume streets for motorists that must travel them.

Once plows do make it to cul-de-sacs, there are very few places to push the snow without blocking driveways, mailboxes, fire hydrants, and storm drain inlets. Drivers will do their best, but please be aware of the challenges they face in cul-de-sac snow removal.

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Taxes

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1. How do I pay my property taxes?

Payments for City of Burlington real estate taxes can be made at the City of Burlington Municipal Annex Building at 237 West Maple Avenue, by mailing the bill payment to the City of Burlington Tax Department at P.O. Box 1358, Burlington, NC 27216, or online by clicking the following link: www.burlingtonnctax.com

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Utilities

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1. How do I establish new water service?

Contact the Water/Billing Department at 336-222-5100.

2. How do I pay my water bill?

By Mail:
Water/Billing
PO Box 1358
Burlington, NC 27216

Water bills can be paid in person at 237 West Maple Avenue or in the drop box located on the side of the Municipal Annex Building. online