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1. How do I contact the City Attorney

Please contact the City Clerk's Office at (863) 421-9921.

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1. How do I submit Public Record Requests?

Requests for public records can be submitted to the City Clerk for processing.

2. When are the City Commission meetings?

The City Commission meetings are scheduled for the first and third Thursday of each month.

3. Where can I get a copy of a deed?

Deeds are filed with the Polk County Clerk of Court. They can be reached at 863-534-4000.

4. Where can I get a copy of a will?

Wills are recorded with the Clerk of Circuit Court Probate Office. They can be reached at 863-534-4478.

5. What is the price of a cemetery space?

The price of a cemetery space is $600.00 for a full burial and $120.00 for an infant space.

6. What is the number for the Better Business Bureau?

The Better Business Bureau is located at:

1600 S Grant Street
Longwood, FL 32750

They can be reached at 800-275-6614.

7. What is the phone number and office location for unemployment?

To find out the phone number and office location of unemployment office in Polk County, please visit the career source website.

8. Where can I get a marriage license?

Marriage licenses can be obtained at the Polk County Courthouse located at:

3425 Lake Alfred Road
Winter Haven, FL 33881

They can be reached at 863-401-2400.

9. Where can I get a birth or death certificate?

Birth and death certificates and be obtained from the Polk County Health Department located at:

2020 E Georgia Street
Bartow, FL 33830

They can be reached by phone at 863-519-7916. Office hours are Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.

10. What time does the City Commission meeting start?

The City Commission meetings begin at 7:00 p.m. in the City Hall Chambers.

11. What is the address of City Hall?

The address of City Hall is 620 East Main Street, Haines City, FL.  33844.

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1. My house is located in Zone X, a low risk flood hazard area shown on the flood map; can I buy flood insurance?

Yes. There is a flood insurance policy for low risk areas. Ask your insurance agent for the Preferred Risk Policy.

2. My street floods, what is the problem?

The road drainage system or the off road outfall system may need maintenance. The Public Works Department maintains public roads and drainage systems in Haines City. Public Works may be contacted at 863-421-3777.

3. What codes or regulations provide guidance on flood protection?

Please refer to the Haines City Land Development Regulations, Chapter 14 – Flood Protection; the Comprehensive Plan; and the Codes of Federal Regulations (CFR) Chapter 44, enforced by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

4. What is a 100 year flood?

A flood event (also known as a base flood) having one percent probability of occurring in any given year. This may also be referred to as the 1% chance flood. In Polk County, the storm may drop about 10.6 inches of rain in a 24-hour period.

5. Where do I obtain a list of flood insurance providers?

All insurance companies can write flood insurance policies. Contact the insurance company that writes your homeowners policy.

6. Where do I obtain information if my property is in the flood plain?

The Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) provide a basis for determining if a property is within a floodplain. On December 20, 2000, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) adopted the latest flood insurance rate maps for Polk County. Copies of the FIRM panels are available from FEMA, at 800-358-9616 or the Map Service Center. The flood maps are also available at area libraries, the East Polk Board of Realtors and the Polk County Builders Association.

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1. Can I stay at the shelter with my pets?

Owners of pets are required to remain at the shelter and care for their pets.

2. Does pre-registration guarantee space in the shelters?

Pre-registration is for planning purposes only. Pet owners will be required to complete and sign a Pet Shelter Agreement and complete other shelter registration process upon arrival at a shelter.

3. I am not a pet owner can I go to the pet shelters?

Pet Shelters are primarily for pet owners who live in mobile or manufactured housing, substandard housing or in an area prone to flooding. Additional public shelters will be available in the County for those without pets. As in any other sheltering situation, residents are advised to consult the local media or Polk County Citizens Information Line 863-401-2234 to ensure a specific shelter is open and operating before proceeding to that facility. Public shelters or pet shelters should be your last option if you must evacuate. Seek out family, friends, church members or others that do not have to evacuate as your first choice.

4. My pet has required vaccinations and has no fleas or ticks. What is being done to make sure all pets in the shelter don’t have fleas?

While we can not guarantee fleas or other parasites will not be passed among pets, pet owners must understand that if a pet becomes unruly, aggressive, shows signs of contagious disease, is infested with parasites (fleas, ticks, lice, etc.) or begins to show signs of stress-related conditions, their pet may be removed to a more remote location in the shelter or removed from the shelter.

5. What are the addresses for the Pet Shelters in Haines City?

Alta Vista Elementary:
801 Scenic Highway
Haines City, FL 33844

6. What happens if a pet in the shelter is dangerous or bites someone?

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office Animal Services Division will manage the pet shelters and have Animal Control officers present. Pets must remain inside an airline approved carrier at all times while inside the shelter buildings. Pet owners acknowledge that any decision concerning the care and welfare of pets and the shelter population as a whole are within the sole discretion of the shelter staff, whose decisions are final. Failure to follow these rules may result in the removal of a pet from the shelter.

7. What pets are allowed in pet shelters?

Dogs, cats, and birds are allowed in the shelters. No reptiles, exotic animals, pot belly pigs or farm animals.

8. What supplies must be brought to the shelter for my pets?

All pets must be in an airline approved carrier. Proof of all required vaccinations, food, a leash, a collar and supplies for proper waste disposal must be brought to the shelter.

9. Why are shelters for animals being provided?

Many citizens of Polk County live in mobile or manufactured housing, substandard housing, or in a flood prone area and must evacuate during a hurricane. Often these citizens have pets that are considered as part of the family and refuse to move to a safer location without taking their pets. Pet shelters offer a safer place for people not just pets.

10. Will I be able to take my pet outdoors or allow others to pet them?

Pets must remain inside an airline approved carrier at all times while inside the shelter buildings. Only the owners will be able to walk the pets outside or handle the animals.

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1. How do I obtain a copy of a fire report?

An official fire report can be obtained at:

Haines City Fire Department
138 N 11th Street
Haines City, FL, 33844

or a request may be e-mailed to tiffany.blomquist@hainescity.com

2. How many Fire Stations are in the City of Haines City?

There are two fire stations, a main station along with a substation.

(Main Station)

138 N 11th Street
Haines City, FL 33844

(Sub Station)

503 Nilsen Rd 

Haines City, FL 33844

3. Is it possible to tour a fire station?

Yes, we welcome visitors at anytime during business hours.

4. Does the Haines City Fire Department refill fire extinguishers?

Unfortunately, the Haines City Fire Department does not refill fire extinguishers. It is recommended that you contact a commercial fire extinguisher company for recharging. A listing of commercial fire extinguisher companies can be found in the local phone directory under fire extinguishers/equipment. Many household fire extinguishers cannot be recharged and must be discarded after use. An annual inspection of the expiration date is encouraged to ensure that the manufacturer date has not expired.

5. Does the Fire Department dispose of medical needles?

No, we are unable to dispose of any medical needles properly. You would need to take them to the nearest health department.

6. How can I obtain a burn permit?

If you are wanting to burn, please contact the fire department.at 863-421-3611. Our fire inspector will come to your location to do an inspection of what you are burning along with placement of burn pile. If everything is up to code he will then issue a burn permit.

7. Does the Fire Department offer CPR classes?

As of right now, the fire department does not offer CPR classes. Our Parks & Recreation Department does offer them throughout the year. Feel free to contact them at 863-421-3700.

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1. Why do I need a smoke alarm?

Buy a smoke alarm at any hardware or discount store. It’s inexpensive protection for you and your family. Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home. A working smoke alarm can double your chances of survival. Test it monthly, keep it free of dust and replace the battery every 6 months. Smoke alarms themselves should be replaced after ten years of service, or as recommended by the manufacturer.

2. What does it mean when my smoke alarm chirps?

The smoke alarm will chirp when it’s time to replace the battery. We encourage residents to change the smoke alarm battery when they change their clocks for daylight saving time in the spring and fall each year.

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1. How is the City Manager chosen?

The City Commission oversees local policy and budgets and appoints a professional City Manager to oversee all administrative tasks on a day-to-day basis.

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1. How do I know if I am dealing with a reputable contractor?

First, verify that the Contractor is licensed. Florida Law requires that a General Contractor or Home Improvement Contractor be licensed.

Verify that the Contractor is insured. State Law requires that they carry workers compensation insurance. Ask to see a certificate of insurance. You may also want to ask for references and be sure to check them all out.

Finally make sure all agreements are in writing. Be sure to reduce all change orders, or contract amendments to writing. Make sure the Contractor obtains all required building permits and pass the required code inspections. Before making the final payment be sure to obtain a certificate of completion or certificate of occupancy issued by the Building Division.

2. What is my property zoned?

You can submit a zoning inquiry in the Planning Division tab and provide necessary information to locate property. Please be sure to have the Polk County Property Appraiser Parcel Number and/or property address for the property.

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1. How do I pay my utility bill?

Online

Pay your utility bill, check your account status, and review your account history.
Online Bill Pay Login

By Mail

Mail Payments To:
City of Haines City
Attn: Utility Billing
620 East Main Street
Haines City, FL 33844-4222

In-Person

Payments may be made in-person during normal business hours (8 am-5 pm, Monday – Friday) at City Hall located at 620 East Main Street, Haines City, Florida 33844.

Drop Box

Drop your payments into the drop box on the left side of the City Hall double doors facing the library. Make sure to write your account number on your payment.

By Phone
Call (844) 399-6188 to make your Utility payment by phone via credit card.

Automatic Payments

You can download the  Debit Authorization Form or contact customer service at (863) 421-3600 for more information.

 

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1. Where is City Hall?

City Hall is located at:

620 E Main Street
Haines City, FL 33844

2. What are the hours for City Hall?

City Hall is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., excluding holidays.

3. How can I get a driver’s license or identification card?

You can get your Florida driver’s license and/or Florida identification cards from the Tax Collector’s Office for Polk County, from Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. However, if you are needing a Commercial Driver License, the cut-off time is 3:30 p.m., and 4 p.m. for regular Driver License.  North Ridge Service Center located at:
2000 Deer Creek Commerce Lane
Davenport, FL 33837

Please visit the Office of the Tax Collector Website for Service Center wait times and additional information. They can be reached at 863-534-4700

4. What is the number for the local auto tag office?

They can be reached at 863-534-4700.

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1. How do I submit an application?

Application for employment must be made on the City's official application form. Resumes by themselves do not satisfy this requirement. Please provide as much detail about your work history as possible and attach additional sheets as necessary. Applications are only accepted for job vacancies that are posted. Applications may be completed via an electronic form and emailed to our department.

Applications are available between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at:

City Hall
620 E Main Street
Haines City, FL 33844

Applications may be mailed to:

City of Haines City
Attn: Human Resources
620 E Main Street
Haines City, FL 33844

Note: If submitting an application by mail, your application must be postmarked by the posting deadline.

2. Do I have to submit multiple applications to apply for several positions?

Yes, a separate application form must be completed for each position.

3. What is the status of my application?

If your qualifications and experience meet the position requirements, Human Resources will identify you as a potential candidate and forward your application to the hiring manager.  The time frame varies and depends on the position and number of applicants.  If selected for an interview, you would typically be contacted 2 to 3 weeks after the closing date of the position.

4. Would having a criminal record affect one’s chance of getting a job?

Applicants with a criminal record are evaluated on a case by case basis. Be honest and forthright concerning your background on the application form and during the interview. A conviction will not necessarily bar you from employment, but will be weighed with respect to time, circumstances, seriousness, and the position for which you have applied.

5. How do I reach a live person?

You can email Human Resources or call 863-421-9926.

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1. When is the library open?

The Haines City Public Library is open the following dates and hours:

Monday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

Tuesday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

Wednesday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

Thursday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

Friday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

Saturday 10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Closed Sundays*

2. Where is the library?

The library is located at:

111 N 6th Street
Haines City, Florida 33844

3. How do I get a library card?

Bring proof of your current street address in Polk County and fill out an application form. There is no charge for a library card as long as you live in Polk County.

4. How much does the library cost?

An initial library card is free to all residents Polk County. Proof of residency is required. Duplicate cards will incur a fee of $1.00.

5. What do I need to get a library card?

Government issued photo identification with a Polk County address or government issued identification and proof of Polk County residency (current utility bill, bank statement, lease agreement)

6. What kind of office services are offered by the Haines City Public Library?

We offer faxing, copying, scanning and notary services.

Fax- 

$1.00 per page (outgoing)

            .50 cents (incoming)

Copies-

Black and white .15 cents

Color                  .50 cents

Scanning            .25 per page

Notary                 $5.00

7. Is there a limit on the amount of books I can check out?

HCPL does not limit the amount of books checked out by our patrons.

8. Does the Haines City Public Library have computers for public use?

Yes. The library provides free public access to computers. A Polk County library card or valid identification is required in order to use our computers. Patrons with an account balance of $10.00 or more will not be able to use any of the free library services including the computers.

9. Will I be able to print from the computers at the library?

Yes. Printing services are available at a cost of 15¢ for black and white copies and 50¢ for color copies.

10. What form of payment does the Haines City Public Library accept?

The Haines City Public Library currently accepts cash only.

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1. What are the hours of operation for the Lake Eva Community Center?

The Lake Eva Community Center hours of operation are Mon - Fri, 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

*note the hours are subject to change due to holidays and special events.

2. What are the hours of operation for the Oakland Neighborhood Center?

The Oakland Neighborhood Center hours of operation are Mon - Fri, 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM.  The Oakland Gymnasium is open Saturday, 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, for open gym basketball. 

*note the hours are subject to change due to holidays and special events. 

3. What is the address to the Lake Eva Event Center?

799 Johns Ave., Haines City FL, 33844

4. What is the address to Lake Eva Community Center?

555 Ledwith Ave., Haines City, FL  33844

5. What is the address to the Oakland Neighborhood Center?

915 Ave E, Haines City, FL  33844

6. Are coolers allowed at Haines City events?

Coolers are allowed at our events.  However, no outside alcohol is permitted.  

7. Where can I park for events?

Parking is available in any of our open public parking lots, as well along the roadways.  Please be sure to adhere to all parking and no parking signs.

8. Can I bring and set off my personal fireworks?

Setting off fireworks and lighting sparklers are not permitted within the park. 

9. Can I bring my own chair(s) to events?

We do provide limited sitting at majority of our events. However we encourage people to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets.

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1. How many times a week will my household garbage be collected?

Household garbage and recyclables are collected once each week. Call the Public Works Department at 863-421-3777 for the pickup schedule for your area.

2. What should I do if my garbage was not picked up on my regularly scheduled day?

Place all garbage containers for residential service at the curb no earlier than 6 p.m. the day before service and containers must be removed from the curb to a location other than the front yard, no later than 6 a.m. the day after service. Should your garbage container be missed, call the Public Works Department at 863-421-3777.

3. Where should I put my garbage can or recycle bin when it is not my scheduled day?

The containers should be placed on the side, or at the back of the house, or inside of the garage during non-pickup days. Moving the container away from the curb does not exclude you from receiving a penalty. The container cannot be anywhere between the house and the road.

4. What will happen if I leave my garbage can out past my scheduled pickup day?

You will receive a green warning ticket on your first offense and second offense. If it is your third offense, then you will receive an orange ticket on your door and a $50 fine will be posted on your next utility bill. You will continue to receive a $50 fine for each day the container is left in front of the house.

5. What if I was cleaning out my garage and I put my container outside my garage for a brief moment and then went inside my house to get something, but I was going to be right back?

You will still receive a violation. If the container is anywhere between the house and the road on a day that is not your scheduled pickup day, you will receive a violation. Take the extra minute to move the container to the side of the house or to push it back into the garage.

6. What if a holiday falls on my scheduled pickup day?

There are announcements posted in your utility bill or on our website, which posts the holiday schedules. The general rule is that pickup days will move to the following day. For example, if your pickup day is on Monday and the holiday falls on a Monday, then your garbage will be picked up on Tuesday. Then normal Tuesday pickups will occur on Wednesday, normal Wednesday pickups will occur on Thursday, normal Thursday pickups will occur on Friday, and normal Friday pickups will occur on Saturday.

7. I just moved into my new house and I need a garbage can and a recycle bin, how do I get one?

If you just moved into a house, call City Hall 863-421-3600 to open an account with Utility Billing, Pay the deposit fee. After your account is open, make the request for your new garbage can and/or recycle bin. 

8. I need an additional garbage can, how much does it cost?

An additional garbage can is $20.00 for the first three months then $10.00 for the last two months added on to your utility bill for the next five months after you purchase it, resulting in a total of $80.00 for each additional garbage can.

9. I have a bunch of items that I need to get rid of but they will not fit into my garbage can, how do I get rid of them?

You have a few choices:

• Consider giving it to a shelter or a thrift store
• Request Republic Service to pick it up on your normal scheduled pickup day
• Call the Public Works Department at 863-421-3777 to schedule a pickup
• Take it to the North Central Landfill

10. What if my garbage can is stolen?

If your garbage can is stolen, you will need to purchase a new one. Call the Public Works Department at 863-421-3777 to order a new can.

11. When are the City’s clean up days?

The City of Haines City has 2 clean up days per year, in spring and fall. This information is sent out in advance either on your utility bill or on the city’s website and social media.

12. I have a dumpster or commercial container at my business and I need to change the service, how do I do that?

Call the Public Works Department at 863-421-3777 to change the service.

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1. I have old paint cans, how do I get rid of those?

If the paint is water based, the can is mostly empty and the paint is completely dried out, then Republic Services will pick them up. If it is oil based paint, then you can dispose of it during the Clean Up Day that includes hazardous waste or take it to the North Central Landfill.

2. I am remodeling my home, how do I get rid of construction debris?

You have a few choices:

• Call the Public Works Department at 863-421-3777 to schedule a pickup (there will be a charge).
• Someone from Republic Services will drive by your house and give you a quote of how much it will cost, then the charge will be added to your utility bill. Republic Services will not pick it up unless you agree to the amount.
• Take the debris to the North Central Landfill.
• Contact a company that offers “roll-off” dumpsters (Lowes, Home Depot, Republic Services, etc.).

3. I have hazardous waste that I need to get rid of, how do I do that?

Hazardous waste is picked up once a year, usually in March. However, you can take it to the North Central Landfill anytime during their normal hours of operation.

North Central Landfill

• 7215 East Highway 540 (between Lakeland and Winter Haven)
• Hours of Operation: 7 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday; 7:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Saturday; and closed Sundays and major holidays.
• Waste that is accepted at the landfill include: 
  • Garbage
  • Construction and demolition debris
  • Yard trash
  • Recyclables
  • Household hazardous wastes
  • Appliances
  • Tires (max 10)
  • Electronics (TVs and computers)

4. How do I get old appliances picked up?

Call the Public Works Department at 863-421-3777 and request them to schedule a pickup. There is no charge for this service.

5. What do I do with my old tires?

Tires without the rim can be placed 5 feet from the curb where you normally place your garbage can. Residents are allowed 4 tires each year for disposal. Tire pickup is the third Saturday of each month citywide.

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1. How do I turn on/off or transfer Utility Services (Water and Wastewater)?

Utility Services can be turned on/off or transferred by visiting City Hall. Bring a valid photo ID and a copy of closing statement or lease agreement showing your current address. City Hall is located at:
620 E Main Street
Haines City, Florida 33844.

Inside the City Limits

• Residential Accounts: Residential accounts inside the City limits require a deposit of $140 plus a $20 one time activation fee, for a total deposit of $160.
• Commercial Accounts: Commercial accounts inside the City limits require a $210 deposit plus a $20 one time activation fee, for a total deposit of $230.

Outside the City Limits

• Residential Accounts: Residential accounts outside the City limits require a deposit of $175 plus a $20 one time activation fee, for a total deposit of $195.
• Commercial Accounts: Commercial accounts outside the City limits require a $262.50 deposit with a $20 one time activation fee, for a total deposit of $282.50.

2. When is the cut-off date?

Cut-off dates change monthly. The due date is printed on your utility bill each month. You may contact Utility Billing at 863-421-3600 for more information.

3. When are the utility bills mailed?

Bills are mailed on or before the 15th of each month for Cycle 1 and on or before the 30th of each month for Cycle 2.

4. When are utility bills due?

Normally, bills are due the 5th for Cycle 1 and the 20th for Cycle 2.

5. How do I pay my utility bill?

Payments may be mailed, paid in person, placed in the night drop box behind City Hall, paid online, or automatic payment from your bank account.

6. What is the mailing address for utility payments?

Please send all utility payments to:
City of Haines City
620 E Main Street
Haines City, FL 33845

7. What forms of payment does the city of Haines City accept?

Cash, check, money order, and debit or credit cards with MasterCard or Visa logo (online only).

8. If a street light is out, who should I call?

You can call the Public Works Department at 863-421-3777, and report the outage please give as much information as possible (the number on the pole, and/or the address closest to the pole). Or you can call at 800-700-8744 or go online and report it to Duke Energy.

9. What if a street light or power line pole is down? (This applies to downed wires as well.)

If it is obstructing traffic, or it is a power line pole, or a power line, call the Police Department at 863-421-3636 to ensure the safety of the situation. You can call the Public Works Department at 863-421-3777, please give as much information as possible (number on the pole and/or the address closest to the pole). If this is a power line or power line pole do not go near it, just call the Police Department or Public Works Department. If it is a street light pole and it is not an emergency, please call Duke Energy at 800-700-8744, or notify the Public Works Department 863-421-3777.

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1. When should I water my lawn?

Please visit the Water Restrictions page for more information.