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Animal Control

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1. Does the City code provide any restrictions on barking dogs?

Yes. Animal Control Regulations (Chapter 6-2, City of Montrose Municipal Code) contains the City's regulations which prohibit several nuisance animal behaviors, including continuously barking or screeching animals.

While the City's code enforcement officer [(970) 240-1477] can provide assistance, it is usually best to try to resolve the matter with the animal's owner before contacting the City.

2. Am I required to keep my dog or cat in my yard?

Yes. Animal Control Regulations (Chapter 6-2, City of Montrose Municipal Code) requires that all pet animals be contained or under control by a leash. Animal Control Regulations

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Animal Services

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1. What fees are charged for animal services?

For detailed information, view the Animal Services Fees

2. How long are pet animals kept at the shelter?

The Animal Shelter is required to keep animals from three to five days. Nine days is the average length of stay at the Montrose shelter.

3. Does the City provide spay/neuter services?

No. Spay and neuter services are available from local veterinarians. Occasionally, the City sponsors spay and neuter clinics that are advertised well in advance.

The Montrose Animal Protection Agency (MAPA) offers vouchers through local veterinarians to assist with the cost of spaying/neutering. Please contact your family veterinarian to ask about this service.

The fee for adopting pets from the Animal Shelter includes spay/neuter and vaccination.

Call the Animal Shelter at 240-1487 for more information.

4. Are you a no-kill facility?

The shelter makes every effort to find homes for pets through adoptions, transfers, foster care and reclaims. Unfortunately, it is necessary to euthanize some animals.

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Building Inspection

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1. Can the city help me resolve problems with the quality of the construction of my house or lot?

No. Construction issues are a private matter between the home owner and the builder or developer.

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City Clerk

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1. Does the City of Montrose have a business license?

No. However, the City of Montrose does require a Sales and Use Tax License for businesses who conduct retail sales within the city limits or who deliver retail products into the City for retail sale. By City code, use tax must be paid on goods consumed or stored within the city limits if sales tax was not paid when the goods were purchased.
Sales Tax

2. Do I need to reserve a picnic shelter for private use?

No. However, the shelters can be reserved to ensure the shelter is available when you need it. It is often better to reserve it. Private Use of Public Property Brochure

3. If I am having a large event, do I need to reserve the park or shelter?

Yes. If you are expecting over 100 people or are advertising your event to the public, you must reserve the park and shelter with an Event Use Permit. Licenses & Permits

4. Where do I renew my license plates?

At the Montrose County Clerk’s Office
Ph: (970) 249-3362

5. Where do I register to vote?

At the Montrose County Clerk’s Office
(970) 249-3362

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Code Enforcement

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1. Do the City's weed control regulations apply to vacant land?

Yes. The City requires weed control on vacant, occupied, or developing parcels, regardless of the current or intended future use of the property. The regulations for weeds (Chapter 6-5, Municipal Code) provides the basis for this requirement. Violations of this and other provisions of the City code can be reported by calling the City's code enforcement officer at (970) 240-1477.
Regulations for Weeds

2. Does the City code allow inoperable or junk vehicles with expired plates to be parked on City streets?

No. According to Chapter 6-3 of the Municipal Code, vehicles with expired plates that are parked on a City street may be towed away and impounded. Litter & Junk Regulations

3. Can garage sale signs be posted on utility poles in the city?

No. Per Section 5-1-2 of the Municipal Code, advertisements, including garage sale signs, cannot be posted on any utility pole or street sign within the city. It is also unlawful to place garage sale signs, regardless of how they are displayed, in the right of ways at intersections and along street edges. Signs that are placed unlawfully will be removed by the city.

Garage sale signs may be placed on the private property where the sale is taking place.

4. Can trailers or recreational vehicles be parked on City streets?

Recreational vehicles with current registration may be parked on City streets, but only temporarily.

5. What can be done to stop illegal dumping?

Section 3-1-10 of the City of Montrose Municipal Code restricts the use of any City trash container to those who pay for the sanitation service and who have permission to use the container. It is also illegal to place litter or junk on any public property, such as streets and alleys. Violating these provisions can result in significant fines and, in some cases, a jail sentence. Illegal dumping should be reported immediately by calling (970) 240-1477. Illegal Dumping Regulations

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Emergency Notification System

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1. Who should register for the Emergency Notification System?

All wireless and VoIP phone subscribers within Montrose, Delta, San Miguel, Ouray, Gunnison and Hinsdale counties who wish to receive emergency notifications. Subscribers' registered wireless and VoIP information will not affect their land line phones that are already in the system.

2. Will my information be sold or distributed?

No. All of the information you enter will feed directly into the Emergency Notification System's secure database. This information can only be accessed by system administrators and the data will never be sold or distributed to third parties.

3. When will I receive phone calls?

You will receive phone calls when the Emergency Notification System is activated and your address is within the geographic area chosen to receive the notification message. The Emergency Notification System will only be activated for emergency purposes.

4. How do I update my information if I move?

If you move after you have entered your information into the Web site you will need to go back into the Web site and re-enter your information with your new address.

5. Can I add my landline telephone number?

Yes. You can enter your landline phone number into the Opt-In website. If your landline phone number is already in the database, the data you enter into the site will NOT overwrite the existing information for your landline telephone number. If your landline phone number is not already in the database, then the new information will be entered into the database.

6. Can I enter my telephone number more than once at different addresses?

No. The last address that you enter into the website will be the only location that your telephone number is associated with. Your telephone number can only be in the database once, at one location.

7. Do I have to enter an actual address?

Yes. If you enter an address that does not exist you will not be in the database and will not be contacted when the Emergency Notification System is activated.

8. Will I be solicited in any way at the phone number that I enter?

No. You will only receive phone calls when the Emergency Notification System is activated and your address is within the geographic notification area chosen. The Emergency Notification System will only be activated for emergency purposes.

9. If I am in a location that is different than the address that I enter into the Web site for my wireless phone, will I still be contacted if an emergency affects the address entered?

Yes. No matter where you are physically located, you will only receive calls for emergencies that affect the address entered into the Web site. So if you are on vacation in a different state you will still receive a phone call if the address you entered is affected by an emergency.

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Employment

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1. How do I apply for a position?

Applications are only accepted for open positions. The City does not hold unsolicited resumes or applications. A completed City application must accompany resumes and be submitted by the closing date listed on the open position posting.
The mailing address is:
City of Montrose HR
P.O. Box 790
Montrose, CO 81402

Applicants may fax applications to (970) 240-1492, but the original must be mailed the Human Resources Department and be postmarked by the application deadline.

2. What is the selection process?

Different jobs require different types of tests to help ensure that the applicant possesses the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform a particular job.

The interview and selection process may include:
-Written tests to measure job-related knowledge or aptitude in a particular area.
-Oral interviews to discuss job history and to assess a candidate's oral communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
-Performance tests to assess a candidate's ability to perform job-related tasks (e.g., typing and grammar tests, driving tests, work simulation exercises, etc.).
-Physical ability tests or medical examinations to assess a candidate's ability to meet the physical requirements of a particular job.
-Polygraph examinations, psychological evaluation, medical evaluations, background investigations and other similar types of examinations or evaluations may be used to assess a candidate's suitability for a particular position.

Some city positions may require an applicant to pass a pre-employment reference screen, criminal history check, or drug screen.

3. How do I know when a job is available?

The City of Montrose accepts applications for jobs that are vacant and being advertised. Job openings are posted on bulletin boards at municipal facilities, including the Human Resources Department at City Hall and on the City's website. Job announcements are posted for a minimum of five working days. In addition, advertisements are placed in the classified section of the local newspaper. Expanded advertising in professional journals, regional or national newspapers, recruiting publications, etc. is used for positions of a professional, managerial, or specialized nature. This advertising is in addition to the local sources listed above.

The City also has a Job Line: (800) 264-4144, or locally (970) 240-1413. The hotline is updated with current information as jobs become available.

There are two kinds of job announcements:
1. Outreach - Open to all applicants
2. In-house - Open to current city employees only

All vacancies are filled through a competitive process designed to ensure that appointments are made on the basis of job-related criteria. Discrimination on the basis of an applicant's religious or political opinions or affiliations, or because of their race, color, sex, creed, national origin, ancestry, age, sexual orientation, or disability is prohibited.
Job Openings

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Finance

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1. What is the sales tax rate for the City of Montrose?

City of Montrose - 3%
Montrose County - 1.75%
State of Colorado - 2.9%
TOTAL SALES TAX - 7.65%

2. Does the City of Montrose have a business license?

No. However, the City of Montrose does require a Sales and Use Tax License for businesses who conduct retail sales within the city limits or who deliver retail products into the City for retail sale. By City code, use tax must be paid on goods consumed or stored within the city limits if sales tax was not paid when the goods were purchased.

3. How do I file my sales tax returns?

City sales tax returns should be dropped off at 433 S. First St. or mailed to:
P.O. Box 790
Montrose, CO 81402

State and Montrose County tax must be remitted to the Colorado Department of Revenue.

4. How do I pay my utility bill or sales tax after hours?

A payment drop box is located in the parking lot adjacent to Centennial Plaza.

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GIS & Mapping

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1. How may I obtain maps of the City?

Large 3' x 4' paper maps featuring zoning, street Index, and subdivisions are available for purchase at City Hall. The zoning and street index maps may also be downloaded for free from the Mapping and GIS page under “Free Map Downloads”. Specialty maps may be requested from the GIS Department with pricing based on the size of the map and time needed to create it. Call (970) 240-1473 for information. Free Map Downloads

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Lions Clubhouse

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1. Can I have alcohol and/or music at my event?

Alcohol is not allowed in Lions Clubhouse or Lions Park. Music at a reasonable volume is allowed.

2. Do I need to bring my own cleaning supplies?

Cleaning equipment and supplies are provided along with a checklist of required cleaning tasks.

3. Will my security deposit check be deposited by the City?

Yes. All deposits are processed through the City's Finance Department. Refunds are issued in the form of a check from the City of Montrose.

4. When will I receive my security deposit refund?

If the posted cleaning checklist is followed and nothing is damaged, your security deposit will be mailed to you within two weeks.

5. Will I need to check out a key to get into the building?

A few days before your event, you will be contacted with a four-digit code that will allow access to the door on the south side of the building. Once inside, the main doors can be unlocked and opened. Please make sure all doors are closed and locked when you leave the building.

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Municipal Court

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1. When do I have to pay my ticket?

There is a box midway on the ticket that will be checked, followed by an address and an appearance date. If your ticket has a fine amount indicated, you must pay the full amount before this date. If the fine is for a traffic offense, you may be eligible for reduction in points if you have paid the fine in full on or before the appearance date.

2. Do I have to go to court?

If your ticket does not have a fine amount, you must appear in court on the date indicated on your ticket.

3. My child has a court appearance, must an adult accompany him/her to court?

Yes. A parent or legal guardian must appear with children under the age of 18.

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Parks & Trails

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1. How do I reserve a park or park shelter?

Park reservations are made on a first-come, first-served basis. Go to the to Parks Reservation page or call (970) 240-1430 for more detailed information about park reservations.
Park Reservations

2. Can I camp at a City park or facility?

Permission is required to camp at City parks or facilities and may be granted to non-profit groups or organizations by the Montrose City Clerk. Proof of non-profit status is required, and requests are subject to availability. Contact the City Clerk's office at (970)240-1430 for further information.

3. What is the watering schedule for parks?

The City's watering schedule varies due to differences in soil and irrigation systems. Most parks are irrigated on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings, with the duration of the watering cycle depending on turf requirements. Large parks may be divided into two watering days. Daytime watering is done only when absolutely necessary. Irrigation schedules will usually be adjusted according to precipitation. Some situations require that we run water in the mornings.

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Pavilion

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1. Is the Pavilion ADA Accessible?

All lobbies and the inner courtyard have ramp and stair access.

2. What is the Parking Capacity?

There is surface parking for 318 cars and additional off-street parking.

3. What Food Services Are Available?

A full-service kitchen and 2 separate catering kitchens are available. The kitchens have a load in/load out dock with double door access. Themed food stations, bars and cafes can be added throughout the facility to meet the individual needs of each client. Beverage and Snack service is available through our event staff. For your more advanced food and beverage needs, please contact one of our approved caterers (please find our list under Food and Beverage).

4. Is There an Overhead PA System?

An overhead public address system is available with ambient control. Acoustic ceiling treatment enhances sound quality. Located in all banquet and meeting spaces, the exhibit hall, and lobbies, they may be operated separately, in pairs or combined.

5. What are the Electrical and Utility Capabilities?

All Pavilion electrical services are delivered through wall mounted, dual plug outlets, located throughout the building. Phone outlets are in the banquet rooms as well as the whole building being a wireless internet hotspot.

6. Is Freight Access Available?

A drive-up dock with freight door (10' x 16') is located behind the auditorium for loading and unloading.

7. Can I Make a Conference Call?

The Pavilion has a digitally controlled telephone system and also has analog phone ports for conference calling.

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Planning & Building

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1. What is my property’s zoning?

Zoning information for specific properties within the City can be gathered using the City’s Geographic Information System mapping page or by visiting the Community Development Department at the Elks Civic Building. For further information about the City's GIS systems, call (970) 240-1473. Mapping & GIS

2. What is a Special Improvement District (SID)?

Special Improvement Districts (SID) are sometimes formed to fund construction of roads, sidewalks, sewer lines, and other public improvements. Since the 1970s, more than 40 SIDs of various kinds have been successfully implemented by the City. Most recently, a SID was formed for constructing a new section of Niagara Road east of 6700 Road.
At the completion of the improvement project, costs are assessed to each SID participant. Many property owners are obligated to participate in future SIDs as stipulated in agreements made with the City at the time that their subdivision was approved. SID obligations are often stated on subdivision plats.

3. Where can I get a land use application? How much does it cost?

You can pick up an application and fee schedule at the Elks Civic Building (107 S. Cascade Ave.), or you can print them from the Document Center

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Police & Public Safety

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1. How do I obtain copies of police reports and other police records?

Records and information are released as dictated by State law. If a records request is filed and the records cannot be released, the records technician who responds to the request will explain the legal grounds for the denial. Visit the Police Department Records Division in person at 434 S. First St. or call (970) 252-5200.

2. What can I do about crime in my neighborhood?

The Montrose Police Department has a community policing program that partners community members with officers to tackle a variety of law enforcement issues. Contact Community Services at (970) 252-5225 to see how you can get involved with the community policing effort. If you are concerned about suspicious or illegal activities in your area, notify the Police Department at (970) 252-5200.

3. How do I obtain information about the status of a case?

State laws govern the types of information that the Police Department can release. If you want to know the status of an investigation, contact the PD and/or District Attorney’s Office, or complete a records request. If the requested records cannot be released, the records technician who responds to the request will explain the legal grounds for the denial.

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Purchasing

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1. How do I get on your Bidders List?

Fill out a Bidders Application Form and either fax it to (970) 252-4733 or mail it to:
Purchasing
P.O. Box 790
Montrose, CO 81402
Bidders Application Form

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Sewer

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1. Who do I call if I have a sewer back-up?

In the event of a sewer back up into a home or business, customers are encouraged to contact the City of Montrose immediately. City staff can determine whether the main sewer line is clear before the resident incurs professional charges from a plumber. If you contact a professional prior to our call, and it is determined that the problem is in the City’s line, the City will not reimburse your charges. Please contact us at 970-240-1480 or 970-240-1400 during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, 7:30 am - 4:30 pm or 970-252-4010 after business hours, weekends or holidays.

2. Who do I call about a sewer smell?

If you are experiencing a sewer smell in or around your home, please check the roof vent on your home to ensure proper ventilation. Also check for sewer breaks in your service line. If you continue to experience this problem please call 970-240-1480 during office hours and we will investigate the problem.

3. What if my E One pump alarm sounds?

Call 970-240-1480 or 970-240-1400 during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, 7:30 am - 4:30 pm or 970-252-4010 after business hours, weekends or holidays.

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Trash / Sanitation

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1. What day does my trash get picked up?

Once every week residential trash service is provided. All areas of the City are assigned a designated pick-up day. For further information, see the Pick-up Schedules & Routes

2. How do I get a special pick-up?

The Sanitation Division collects items that are too large for your garbage container during specially scheduled bulk collections. These pick-ups are available by calling (970) 240-1480 or (970) 240-1400. A fee is assessed according to the amount of materials that is to be picked up and the labor and equipment that is required. There is a minimum charge of $15. Special collection charges will be added to your monthly utility bill. Special collection materials must be placed at curbside for pick-up. More...

3. What time do I have to have my trash container at curbside?

Containers must be placed curbside by 6:00 am on the scheduled collection day. A $15 charge will be assessed if the customer requests the driver to return for service on the same day.

4. How do I get my trash container repaired?

Call 240-1480 or 240-1400 to schedule a repair. The City will not clean or trade containers if they smell. Washing containers with a mild bleach solution will help control odors.

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Utility Billing

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1. My water service was disconnected because I failed to pay my utility bill. How do I get my water service reconnected?

The past-due account balance as well as a $50 reconnection fee and $50 deposit must be paid before water service can be restored. Payment can be submitted at the customer service counter at the City Hall. Deposits will be refunded with interest after 18 months without delinquency or upon termination of the utility account.

2. Whom can I contact to resolve a problem with my utility bill?

While the City makes every effort to ensure that utility bills are accurate, errors do occur and should be brought to our attention. Customer service representatives are available at the City Hall during regular business hours to answer questions or resolve problems. They can also be reached by phone at (970 240-1400. The Utility Billing Hotline [(970) 240-1401] can also be used to obtain information about City utilities and sanitation services.

3. Why is my City utility bill so high?

A common reason for unusually high utility bill charges is increased water usage due to water leaks, malfunctioning toilets, or summertime landscape irrigation. The City reviews water usage to determine if it is higher than normal. If it is, we have our servicemen check for a leak. If you feel that there is an error on your bill, please call (970) 240-1400 to speak with a customer service representative.

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Water

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1. Who is responsible for the cost of repair or water loss during a water leak?

If the leak is found to be on the street side of the meter up to the last nut on the meter yoke on the customer’s side, the City of Montrose is responsible for the leak. If the water has traveled through the meter during the leak, adjustments will be made to your utility bill. If the leak is after the last nut on the yoke, the customer is responsible for repairs and water usage.

2. Whom do I call if I discover a water leak or break?

Contact us at (970) 240-1480 or (970) 240-1400 during normal business hours (Monday - Friday, 7:30 am to 4:30 pm), or (970) 252-4010 after business hours, weekends, or holidays.

3. What do I do if there is a problem with my utility bill?

Contact Utility Billing at (970) 240-1400. Utility Billing

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Weed Control

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1. How often does the City spray the parks?

The parks are sprayed twice a year. Once in the spring and again in the fall. Signs are always posted the day before an area will be sprayed.

2. How do I get my name on the "No Spray" list?

Just contact the Parks department at either (970) 240-1411 or (970) 240-1480 to get your name on the list. This is mostly useful when the spray crew is dealing with the alley ways.