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1. How do I express a concern at a City Council meeting?

During a council or committee meeting there is an Inquiries item on the agenda. That is the time for the public to address the council regarding issues not on the formal agenda. For more information on the city council see the Mayor & City Council web page. Mayor & City Council

2. Can I pay my city utility bill with a credit card over the telephone?

Yes, by calling 877-885-7968. There are fees associated with payments by phone. Visit our On-Line Bill Pay webpage for more information. On-Line Bill Pay

3. Do I need a permit to sell door-to-door?

Yes, anyone going door to door or on the public street selling products, subscriptions, or services are required to have a peddlers permit. An exception is educational, religious, or charitable organizations which do not require a permit but still need to be approved by the chief of police. For more information on obtaining a peddlers permit see the Peddlers Permits web page. Peddlers Permits

4. Do I need to license my pet?

Yes, an annual license is required for dogs and cats over the age of 6 months. For more information on animal licenses see the Animal Licenses web page. Animal Licenses

5. How do I contact my elected officials?

Contact information and a brief biography of each elected official can be found on the Meet the Members web page. Meet the Members

6. When are city utility bills mailed and when is payment due?

City utility bills are mailed on the last business day of the month. Payment is due on the 15th of the month. 

Utility Billing

7. I will be out of town for the winter, will I still be billed for city utilities?

Yes, unless city personnel remove your water meter, you will still incur charges for minimum water & sewer usage plus sanitation. If you are gone for 3 consecutive months, reimbursement for sanitation charges can be requested. For more information or to download a sanitation reimbursement form, see the Extended Vacations web page. Extended Vacations

8. How do I sign up for city services as a new resident?

If you are new to the city of Grinnell you will need to fill out an application for service. Applications are available for download on the Establishing Service web page or at the city office at 520 4th Avenue. In addition to the completed application, all residential rentals require a $150 deposit be paid before services can be established. Establishing Service

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1. How do I know if I live or work in the Central Business District?

For the purposes of automated pick-up of solid waste the Central Business District was defined as: 800-1000 blocks of Main Street, 800 block of Commercial Street, 800-1000 blocks of Broad Street, 700-800 blocks of 4th Avenue, and 700-800 blocks of 5th Avenue. 

Residences and businesses in the Central Business District that currently have curbside collection will continue to have curbside collection of trash with purchase of stickers required. 

2. Do I need to use bags?

It is recommended you have your trash in a bag or multiple bags inside your cart in order to keep it clean but you will no longer have to purchase yellow city bags or city stickers. 

3. Does the city pick up recycling at the curb?

No.  A recycling drop-off center is located at the public service building (1411 1st Avenue). Those that are not able or do not wish to haul their recyclables to the drop-off center should place that material in their cart with their other trash.

4. What is the monthly charge for automated pick-up?

Monthly rates are set by the city council and can be found on the sanitation rates web page.

5. Can I have a special pick-up or pick-up of large items?

Yes. Arrangements for a special pick-up or pick-up of a large item can be made by calling Public Services at 641-236-2632. 

6. What if my trash will not fit in the cart?

If there are weeks when your trash will not fit in the cart you will need to purchase a sticker and bring your bag to the public service building for disposal in the appropriate dumpster. If your trash will not fit in the cart on a regular basis you may want to consider purchase of a larger cart. Contact public services at 641-236-2632 to discuss changing sizes. Replacement or additional carts will cost $50.00. 

7. What if I need a different size cart?

Replacement carts can be obtained by contacting public services at 641-236-2632. Replacement or additional carts will cost $50.00. 

8. My house is empty do I still need a cart?

Yes. Carts will be required at each property with a water meter in place. The cart stays with the property and will be used by the next occupant of the home. 

Homes that are vacant for three months or more can request reimbursement on their solid waste charges. Information on sanitation reimbursement can be found on the solid waste web page.

9. What if I move to a new home or location?

If you move the cart should stay with the house. Your new home, if in Grinnell, should already have a cart. If you prefer a different size cart at your new home, contact the Public Service department at 641-236-2632 to discuss changing sizes. 

10. My home is on an incline, where do I place my cart?

For homes without a level surface at the curb, the cart will need to be placed in the street. 

11. Can I still drop off trash at the public service building?

Yes, as long as it has a yellow sticker or is in a yellow city bag.

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1. How do I know if I need a building permit?

Building permits are required for all new buildings or alterations to existing buildings. The following list of alterations DO NOT require a building permit: nonstructural alterations not exceeding $500.00, paneling, cabinet replacements, door and window replacement if replaced with an equal size, storm window replacement, screen replacement, gutter addition or replacement, railing replacement, repairs of porches, ordinary maintenance work, painting and floor coverings, maintenance and/or repairs on structures used for farming purposes only (new construction of a permanent structure used for farming purposes shall require a permit). For more information see the Permits & Information webpage. Permits & Information

2. How do I get a permit?

Permits are available for download on the city website or at the city office. See the Permits & Information webpage for a list of downloadable forms. Permits & Information

3. Can I plant a tree in the right-of-way?

Yes, provided the proper permit is completed and approved. There is no fee for a tree permit. A permit is not required to plant a tree on private property. For a list of recommended trees see the Permits & Information webpage. Permits & Information

4. What International Building Code year is the city under?

The city of Grinnell is currently under the following building codes:

• 2015 International Building Code
• 2015 International Residential Code
• 2015 International Existing Building Code
• 2015 International Fire Code
• 2017 National Electric Code
• 2018 International Mechanical Code
• 2018 Uniform Plumbing Code
• 2012 International Energy Conservation Code
• 2010 ADA Standards

5. Does the city of Grinnell have a rental inspection program?

Yes, a rental inspection program was approved by ordinance dated 5/20/2019. It requires all rental properties used for residential purposes, including hotels and motels, to be registered with the city and be inspected on a one to three year schedule. For more questions or to set up an inspection contact the Building & Planning department at 641-236-2600.

Rental Inspection Program - Further Information

6. Do I need a permit for a fence and what are the guidelines for new fences?

A permit is required to build a fence. All fences must meet visibility requirements and the better appearing side must face your neighbor's property. The height cannot exceed 4 feet in the front yard and 6 feet in the rear and side yards. Fences must be placed on your property such that it can be maintained without trespassing. Contact the Building & Planning Department at 641-236-2600 for further visibility requirements.

7. Do I need a permit for a swimming pool and what are the guidelines?

All swimming pools capable of holding 24 inches, in depth, or more of water, require a permit. Plans and specifications concerning the pool shall be submitted along with the request for a permit. A fence not less than 5 feet in height with no openings other than doors or gates and at least 4 feet from the edge of the pool should be in place before filling the pool. Pools must be located in side or rear yards only. Contact the building and planning department at 641-236-2600 for further requirements and to obtain a permit.

8. Do I need a permit to repair or replace a driveway?

If a currently paved driveway is being replaced or repaired without increasing in size, no permit is needed. If a dirt or gravel driveway is being paved or a paved driveway will increase in size, a permit is needed. If you are unsure if you need a permit contact the Building & Planning Department at 641-236-2600.

9. When do I need a mechanical permit?

Mechanical permits are required for the new installation or replacement of existing mechanical equipment including central air conditioners, furnaces, air handlers, mini-split systems, and any other types of equipment. If you are unsure if you need a permit contact the Building & Planning Department at 641-236-2600.

Mechanical Permit Form

10. When do I need an electrical permit?

The City of Grinnell requires an electrical permit for work that is outside of the electrical panel. If work is to be done which includes the addition of a new circuit to a breaker, the State of Iowa requires a permit to be obtained and the state will also complete the inspection. For work that includes working inside the panel, please contact Tim Shaw at 515-205-8815 to both obtain a permit and schedule an inspection. If you are unsure if you need a permit from the City of Grinnell contact the Building & Planning Department at 641-236-2600. 

11. When do I need a plumbing permit?

Plumbing permits are required for the new installation or replacement of existing plumbing equipment including water heaters & supply, drain, and vent lines. Fixtures such as toilets, faucets, and shower heads do not require a permit as long as the work being completed does not interfere with the existing valve; if a new valve is to be installed, a permit will need to be obtained and test shall be completed. If you are unsure if you need a permit contact the Building & Planning Department at 641-236-2600.

Plumbing Permit Form

12. How are permit fees determined?

Permit fees are based on the valuation of the work performed, including both materials and labor. If labor is at no cost, the permit fee is based on the material cost times two. Permit fees include all normal plan reviews and inspections. Beginning July 1, 2018 a number of items are charged a flat rate regardless of the valuation of the work completed. 

Permit Fees

13. How do I find zoning on a property?

You may call the Building & Planning Department at 641-236-2600 or use our searchable Zoning Map. Zoning Map

14. How do I find out who owns a specific property?

The Poweshiek County Assessor maintains a website with property ownership information. Poweshiek County Assessor Site

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1. How often should I change the batteries in my smoke or carbon monoxide detectors?

Ideally you should test your detectors once a month and change the batteries every 6 months. A good rule-of-thumb is to change the batteries when you change the time on your clocks in the spring and fall.

2. Can I burn leaves in town?

No. All open burning is prohibited in the city of Grinnell. Recreational fires for cooking, heating, recreation, and ceremonies are allowed. For a full list of exceptions see City Code, Chapter 156 or the Burning Ordinance webpage.

Burning Ordinance

3. How can I become a volunteer firefighter?

An application can be picked up at the Grinnell Fire Department, 1020 Spring Street. For more information and a list of qualifications see the Volunteer Opportunities webpage. Volunteer Opportunities

4. Why are fire hydrants painted different colors?

Fire hydrants are color-coded to indicate the amount of water (gallons per minute) that is available from that fire hydrant. This allows firefighters to know how much water is available for fighting a fire. The gallons per minute are determined during flow testing of hydrants.

5. How many calls does the fire department respond to in a year?

On average the fire department responds to 700 calls per year. This includes all types of fires, motor vehicle accidents, medical assits, illegal burning or smoke complaints, and false alarms. For a full list of types of calls see the fire department annual report. Annual Report

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1. Can I just throw my fluorescent tubes/CFLs in the trash?

You could at your house because household hazardous wastes are exempt from some regulations. However, we discourage it because each tube or CFL contains a small amount of mercury, which is hazardous to human health.

2. Can my business/employer throw fluorescent tubes/CFLs in the trash?

Fluorescent lights are considered hazardous waste when generated by a business. It is illegal under federal law to place them in the trash.

3. Why do we have to manage chemicals/fluorescents differently at home and at work?

Household hazardous wastes have been exempt from some of the federal regulations that govern hazardous wastes from businesses. The standards also vary for businesses that regularly generate only a little hazardous waste and those that regularly generate a lot. Basically the rules get more stringent as the generator gets larger, which makes sense. But there are rules at all levels.

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1. What programs are offered by the Recreation department?

A wide variety of programs are offered year round for youths, adults, and families. See the recreational activities web page for our current program brochure and other information. Recreational Activities

2. How do I reserve a park shelter?

You can reserve a park shelter by visiting the Parks and Recreation Department office at 1500 Penrose Street or by going to our recreation activity website. Any questions can be directed to the Parks and Recreation Department by calling 641-236-2620. 

Recreation Activity Website

3. Can I use park facilities without reserving them ahead of time?

Yes, you may use park facilities without reserving them, but if you are planning an event, for a minimal rental fee there are advantages to reserving the facility. Those advantages are: you will ensure that your group is not bumped from the site, you can request extra tables if needed at the time of reservation, and the park department will make sure the facility is clean for your rental. Placards are hung at the facility to indicate it has been reserved.

4. What are the hours for the Aquatic Center?

See the Aquatic Center web page for the current schedule. Aquatic Center

5. Where is the Recreation Department located?

The Recreation Department is housed in the Grinnell Athletic & Recreation Center (GARC) on Penrose Street. The physical address is 1500 Penrose Street.

6. How much does it cost to use the Aquatic Center?

See the Swim Rates web page for rates for season passes and daily admission. Swim Rates

7. Can I rent the Aquatic Center?

Yes, see the Private Pool Rentals web page for rates and hours of availability. Private Pool Rentals

8. Does the Recreation department coordinate youth baseball and softball?

No, Little League Baseball and Softball is coordinated by the Grinnell Youth Baseball & Softball Association (GYBSA).

Website

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1. How do I obtain a copy of an accident report?

For a copy of an accident report, contact the records office at (641) 236-2670 ext. 2 or come by the Police Department at 1020 Spring Street between 7:30 am and 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday. It is recommended to call in advance to verify the report is completed.

Accident reports are also available online through Crashdocs.org (powered by Carfax). It can take up to two weeks for an accident report to be available through the site. 

Crashdocs. org

2. How do I get a copy of my driving record?

Iowa driving records are maintained by the Iowa Department of Transportation. To obtain a certified copy of your driving record (fee $5.50), contact the Iowa Department of Transportation at (800) 532-1121 or (515) 244-9124.

Iowa Department of Transportation

3. Is it possible to have criminal background checks on my employees?

Yes, it is possible to have criminal background checks done on employees; however the Grinnell Police Department cannot share criminal history information. If you or your business needs criminal background checks, state law allows only the Division of Criminal Investigation to process checks. The Division of Criminal Investigation is based out of the Wallace Building at the State Capitol.

Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation

4. If my keys are locked in my vehicle, can the Grinnell Police open my vehicle for me?

No, however, the Police Department will assist you in obtaining the services necessary, such as certified locksmith, to unlock your vehicle. For more details, contact the department at (641) 236-2670 ext. 2.

5. How do I report a stray animal?

To report an at large animal contact county dispatch at 641-623-5679.

6. Does the Police Department provide fingerprinting?

Appointments for fingerprinting required, call 641-236-2670 choose option #2.  You must provide the fingerprint card , photo identification , and $20.00 cash or check. We are unable to accept credit cards. The standard fingerprint form FD-258 is available online for downloading. When printing out your own FD-258 card remember to use card stock. Standard copy paper does not work for fingerprinting purposes.

7. Is prescription medication disposal available?

Yes. A prescription drug drop box is located in the Public Safety Building Lobby during normal business hours ( Monday - Friday  7:30am - 4:30 pm ).

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1. How do I dispose of a television or other appliances?

Televisions and appliances can be placed at the curb for pick-up by city employees. Each item requires a $16.00 sticker attached and a pick-up scheduled by calling 641-236-2632. $16.00 stickers are available at the Public Service Department and the City Office. For more information, see the Solid Waste webpage. Solid Waste

2. When is the Brush & Compost facility open?

The brush & compost facility is open from early spring to late fall. The days and hours it is open are listed on the Brush & Compost Facility webpage. Brush & Compost Facilty

3. How do I dispose of medication?

Medications should not be disposed of with regular solid waste. A prescription drug drop box is available in the lobby of the Public Safety building (1020 Spring Street) during normal business hours (Monday - Friday 7:30am - 4:30pm). Drop box is only for prescription medications no sharps, no liquids, and no inhalers.

More Information

4. How do I dispose of Sharps?

Residential Customers may dispose of Sharps at the Public Service Department building at 1411 1st Avenue. They should NOT be placed curbside with regular garbage.

Commercial (Business) customers should contact the South Central Iowa Solid Waste Agency at 641-828-8545 ext. 2 to discuss options for Sharps disposal. Preparation

5. What can I take to the Recycling Center?

The Recycling Center is located at the Public Service building 1411 1st Avenue. See the recycling web page for a list of acceptable items and unacceptable items.

Recycling

6. I spend the winter in the south; can I get reimbursement on sanitation charges?

If your home has been vacant for at least 3 consecutive months you can request reimbursement for sanitation charges incurred while it was vacant. Reimbursement is given in 3-month increments, i.e. 3 months, 6 months, 9 months, or 12 months. For more information and to submit a reimbursement request see the Extended Vacations webpage. Extended Vacations

7. Where can I purchase yellow bags or stickers for garbage?

$1.30 stickers are available at the following locations: Fareway, Hy-Vee, McNally’s Super Valu, Paul’s Ace Hardware, Theisens, Public Service Department, and the City Office. Yellow bags (while supplies last) are available at McNally’s, Public Service Department, and the City Office. (Yellow bags or stickers are not needed if your trash is picked up in a brown rolling trash cart.)

8. How can I get a dumpster?

The Public Service Department rents dumpsters for limited time usage by residents and to commercial businesses for regular usage. See the Dumpster Rental webpage for more information. Dumpsters obtained from other entities require the Building & Planning Department be contacted if the dumpster is to be placed in the right-of-way. Dumpsters obtained from other entities to be placed in the Central Business District require a permit from the Building & Planning Department. The Building & Planning Department can be reached by calling 641-236-2600. Dumpster Rental

9. Where is the Transfer Station?

The Poweshiek County Transfer Station is located east of Grinnell on Highway 6. The address is 1163 Hwy 6, Malcom, IA 50157. Phone: 641-528-2801 See the SCISWA website for more information. SCISWA Website

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1. What portion of the wastewater distribution system is the property owner's responsibility?

The property owner is responsible for all service pipes up to and including the connection to the main. Typically this includes the pipes from inside the building out to the middle of the street. Wastewater Service Diagram

2. How do I prevent sewer back-ups?

The city's sewers are designed to dispose of very specific things. Using your toilet for disposal of many modern products will often result in blockages. The drains that connect your home to the main sewer are only big enough to carry water, toilet paper and human waste - often no wider than four inches. How to Avoid Backups in your Basement

3. What do I do if I smell a sewer odor in my basement?

This is usually caused by an empty drain trap somewhere in the house that is allowing sewer odor back into the house. You should periodically pour water down every drain trap in the house. Be sure to use enough water to completely fill each trap.

Show All Answers

1. What portion of the water distribution system is the property owner's responsibility?

The property owner is responsible for all service pipes up to and including the connection to the water main. Typically this includes the pipes from inside the building out to the middle of the street.

Water Service Diagram

2. How can I tell if I have a water leak inside my home?

If you have a newer gallon meter there is a leak detector on the meter. It is a red triangle in the center of the top of the meter. It should not be turning unless someone or something is using water at the time. If it is indicating usage when there shouldn't be any, you should contact your plumber to determine the source of the leak.

Additional Information

3. Will water department personnel help me determine if I have a leak?

Yes, the water department offers complementary leak checks. Contact city staff at 641-236-2600 to set up a leak check.

4. I think my toilet is leaking, how can I check it?

After flushing the toilet add food coloring to the tank after it has stopped running. If the dye comes through to the bowl it indicates a bad flapper or a bad seal.

5. I plan to use a substantial amount of water outside, can I get credit on the sewer charges for this water?

Yes, provided you obtain an outside water meter from the water department prior to using the water. There is a $20 charge for use of the meter. At the current rates 300 cubic feet of water needs to be used to cover the $20 charge. 300 cubic feet is roughly equal to 2250 gallons. To obtain an outside watering meter complete the outside watering meter request form. For more information see the Outside Watering Meters webpage.

Outside Watering Meters

6. How much water is used for typical household activities?

Average Use:

• Shower - 25-50 Gallons (5-10 gallons per minute)
• Tub Bath - 36 Gallons (full)
• Tub Bath - 10-12 Gallons (low level)
• Toilet Flush - 5-7 Gallons
• Tooth Brushing - 2 Gallons (tap running)
• Tooth Brushing - 1 Pint (wet brush, rinse briefly)
• Hand Washing - 2 Gallons (tap running)
• Hand Washing - 1 Gallons (fill basin, rinse briefly)
• Shaving - 3-5 Gallons (tap running)
• Shaving - 1 Gallon (fill basin, rinse briefly)
• Dish Washing - 20 Gallons (tap running)
• Dish Washing - 5 Gallons (wash, rinse in pans or sink)
• Automatic Dishwasher - 15 Gallons (full cycle)
• Clothes Washer - 30-60 Gallons
• Outdoor Watering - 5-10 Gallons per minute