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Public Works

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1. Do I need a permit to replace my driveway?

A driveway can be expanded to an interior property line provided 50% of the front yard is still maintained as ground cover. An approved driveway extension must be asphalt, concrete, or Class 5 gravel or better. Improvements within the public right of way (generally within 15 feet from the street curb) require a driveway permit. Permit applications are available by contacting the Engineering Division at (763) 569-3340 or by visiting the following webpage. Applications and Permits

2. Who can help me find my property corners so I can build a fence?

Residents should locate their property corner stakes prior to installing fences to avoid encroachments onto adjacent properties. The city cannot locate property corner monuments on private property. Residents should hire a licensed land surveyor to complete land surveys or locate property corners.

3. How do I report a street light with a burned out bulb?

To report a non-functioning street light, contact Street Maintenance at (763) 585-7100.

4. Where can I get a copy of a property plat?

Plats are recorded and stored with Hennepin County. Plats for abstract properties can be obtained from either the Office of the County Recorder or the Office of the Registrar of Titles, depending on the type of property. Both of these offices are located in the Hennepin County Government Center:
300 S. Sixth St.
Minneapolis, MN 55487

Hard copies can often be obtained from the Brooklyn Center Engineering Division at (763) 569-3340. Hennepin County

5. Are we allowed to park on the street?

Parking is not allowed on the street in the City of Brooklyn Center between 2:00 am and 6:00 am or for more than six consecutive hours at any other time. Parking is also prohibited in an alley. Commercial vehicles are limited to two hours of on-street parking. Vehicles parked on the street may not interfere with traffic, fire hydrants, utility maintenance, or snow plowing activities. Vehicles creating obstructions or hazards may be removed by the City. Typically, the City starts snow plowing activities after a snowfall of 2.5 inches. In the event of an emergency, please call the on-duty sergeant at (763) 569-3333.

6. I live on a street that was rebuilt (two, five, ten) years ago and my sod looks dead. Will the City fix it?

Generally, the sod warranty is 30 days after initial placement. After that time the property owner is responsible for sod maintenance. New lawns will require more watering and care than the rest of your yard for the first three years after installation.

7. What is the flood elevation in my neighborhood?

Regulated flood elevations are established by mapping from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Copies of the FEMA Flood Maps are available from both the Engineering Division (763) 569-3340 and the Building and Community Standards Department (763) 569-3330.

8. Will a city surveyor find my property lines and corners?

The City Surveyor does not locate property corners for private property owners. Property owners should consider hiring a private licensed land surveyor to complete land surveys or locate property corners. Licensed land surveyors can be found in the telephone directory (yellow pages). Property owners can use a metal detector to find existing property corners at the corners of the lot.

9. Who puts the flags and paint in the street boulevard and what do they mean?

State law requires anybody excavating to call for underground utility locations. If the markings are in the street, you can contact the Public Works Department to inquire about who called in the locate request and what work is to be performed. Gopher State One Call Website

10. What should I do if I have a private well on my property. How do I abandon the well?

The Minnesota Department of Health requires that private wells no longer being used (abandoned) be capped and sealed by a licensed well drilling company. Proof of a capped well must be disclosed at the time a property is sold. MN Department of Health Website

11. Where can I drain my swimming pool?

The City allows residents to drain pools into the storm sewer system when the pool water does not contain excessive chemicals that can damage downstream lakes and rivers. Water chemicals should be balanced, where chlorine content is below 1ppm before draining into the storm sewer system. The flow of water should be controlled to prevent damage or flooding to nearby properties.

12. What do I need to do to get a new street light installed on my street?

Installing a street light typically involves a neighborhood petition process. Please contact the Engineering Division at (763) 569-3340.

13. How do I get a copy of Brooklyn Center's standard plates for streets and utilities?

Standard plates can be mailed, email or faxed. Please contact the Engineering division at (763) 569-3340.

14. Where can I get a copy of easements filed on my property?

Easements are recorded with Hennepin County. Hard copies can often be obtained from the Brooklyn Center Engineering Division at (763) 569-3340. For more information, please see the Hennepin County website.

15. Who do I contact regarding clear view (site visibility) issues?

A clear view issue is a visual obstruction at a street intersection. It is defined as a triangular area formed by connecting the following three points: the point of intersection of the adjacent curb lines extended and a point on each adjacent curb line 55 feet from such point or intersection. Clear view triangle is defined in City Ordinance 25-802. To report a clear view obstruction, please contact the Public Works Department at (763) 585-7100.

16. How do I apply for a right-of-way permit?

New utility companies must register with the City and fill out the right-of-way registration form. Private utility companies installing new utilities or maintaining existing utilities within the public right-of-way need to apply for a right-of-way permit. A scaled drawing showing the locations of facilities and proposed improvement must be submitted with the application. The drawings must show dimensions to adjacent landmarks such as the road edge or right-of-way. Reference City Ordinance 25-1000 to 25-1032 for additional right-of-way rules and regulations. A copy of the right-of-way permit for utilities can be found at Click here. Please contact the Engineering Department for more information at (763) 569-3340. Right-of-Way Permit Forms

17. How do I get benchmarks?

For benchmarks, please contact the Engineering Division at (763) 569-3340. All benchmarks in Brooklyn Center are top nut of hydrant benchmarks unless otherwise specified.

18. My neighbors downspout/sump pump discharge is directed toward my property and causing problems. What can I do?

Sump pump discharge and drainage should drain onto a person's own lawn so the water infiltrates into the ground. Sump pumps and storm water may not be drained into the sanitary sewer system. Please contact your neighbor and try to arrive at an agreement that is beneficial to all parties. Community Mediation Services, Inc. may be contacted to help neighbors resolve differences of private property issues. This service is free to residents and voluntary. Their phone number is (763)561-0033.

19. How do I get a stop sign added to an intersection?

To request a new traffic control sign, residents must send a written request to the Public Works Department Director describing the requested signage, specific location, need and contact information. The Administrative Traffic Committee reviews all requests for new signage. The mailing address is: Engineering Division, 6301 Shingle Creek Pkwy, Brooklyn Center, MN 55430.

20. What is the right-of-way on my street?

Right-of-Way (public boulevard) is dedicated to the public for construction and maintenance of streets and utilities. Right-of-way is dedicated on subdivision plats and is held in trust for the community. The boundary of right-of-way extends beyond the edge of street pavement. The width of the right-of-way will vary depending on the location of the property, but is generally 14 feet from the curb. To find out the width and extent of the right-of-way near your property, please contact the Engineering Division at (763) 569-3340.

21. What can be done to fix streets that flood regularly?

First, check to see if a catch basin is plugged. If you are unable to clear the debris, please contact the Street Maintenance Division at (763) 585-7100. If a plugged catch basin is not the problem, please contact the Street Maintenance Division at (763) 585-7100. Please keep children and pets away from flooded streets and do not drive through flowing water.

22. How do I have "No Parking" signs removed or installed on my street?

To request a new traffic control sign or changes to traffic control signs, residents must send a written request to the Public Works Department Director describing the requested signage and actions. The Administrative Traffic Committee reviews all requests for new signage. The mailing address is: Engineering Division, 6301 Shingle Creek Pkwy, Brooklyn Center, MN 55430.

23. How do I report a damaged traffic sign?

To report a damaged traffic sign, contact Street Maintenance at (763) 585-7100.

24. Can I place materials or equipment in the street or public boulevard (right-of-way) during a landscape project?

Storage of materials for landscaping are not allowed on public streets or right-of-way. Please make sure delivery companies know to drop off dumpsters and all materials directly onto your private property. Materials stored on the street may create safety hazards.

25. Where can I get utility as-built/record plans?

Utility as-built/record plans are maps that provide the location of underground utilities. These records are available at the Brooklyn Center Engineering Davison at (763) 569-3340.

26. Who can I talk to regarding drainage issues?

Residents should contact the Engineering Division at (763) 569-3340 regarding drainage issues within public property, streets, parks or water bodies. Questions regarding drainage issues within private property should be directed to the Building and Community Standards Department at (763) 569-3330.

27. Do I need a permit to build a retaining wall or landscape in the public boulevard (right-of-way)?

Retaining walls, fixed structures or other large obstructions cannot be placed within the public boulevard (right-of-way) due to public safety concerns. City ordinance also limits the types of trees and bushes that can be planted within the public right-of-way. Please contact the Engineering Division regarding placement of objects and landscaping materials within the right-of-way. See Boulevard Tree Permit Form

28. Who can help correct an erosion problem on a project site?

The City Engineering Division monitors erosion control practices on construction sites and other areas within the community. Residents should report erosion problems to the City Engineering Division at (763) 569-3340.

29. How do I determine if sewer or water connection charges are due?

Sewer and water connection charges apply to new structures constructed on vacant property. In some cases, credits are applied for old structures that are removed from a parcel as part of a redevelopment project. Water connection charges are also applied to existing homes that are converted from a private well onto the city water system.

30. What can I do to stabilize my creek bank or pond shore area that is eroding?

If the body of water is considered a protected water by the State of Minnesota, DNR or Watershed permits are required for work within the protected area. City Engineering staff can also provide recommendations and other resources for stabilizing shoreline areas. Please contact the Engineering Division to inquire whether the body of water is protected and for information at (763) 569-3340.

31. Where is the Public Works Department building located?

The Public Works Department Building is located at 6844 Shingle Creek Pkwy, Brooklyn Center, MN 55430.

32. Where is the Engineering Division located?

The Engineering Division is located on the second floor of City Hall, 6301 Shingle Creek Parkway, Brooklyn Center, MN 55430.

33. If one of my trees is marked due to disease, what are some options for removal?

You may dispose of the tree yourself; you can hire a contractor to do the removal and disposal; or if the tree is in the public boulevard (right-of-way), you can have a contractor hired by the City remove the tree and be billed for it. Please contact Public Works Department at (763) 585-7100 with any questions.

34. Can trees be planted in the City right-of-way (public boulevard)?

A permit is required for planting trees within the City right-of-way due to potential safety hazards. Certain types of trees are also prohibited. For more information or clarification on the location of the right-of-way line, please contact Public Works Department at (763) 585-7100.

35. Does the City license tree contractors who do work in the City?

Tree contractors who perform tree removal or trimming in the City are required to be registered with the City. If they go door-to-door soliciting business for tree work, they must be registered. For a list of registered contractors, please call Public Works Department at (763) 585-7100. List of Registered Tree Contractors

36. Are dutch elm disease and oak wilt a problem in Brooklyn Center?

The City of Brooklyn Center continues to lose hundreds of trees every year due to these two diseases. At this time, no actions can be taken to completely prevent these diseases from affecting our community forest. If you have questions about tree management, please call the City Forestry at (763)585-7100.

37. Does the City prune boulevard and right-of-way trees?

Pruning of boulevard and right-of-way trees by the City is performed on an as-needed basis. Tree trimming promotes safe and unimpeded access on City streets for all large vehicles and emergency vehicles. The City does not prune trees for aesthetic reasons alone.

38. If I take down a diseased elm tree, can I store the wood for use in my fireplace?

City ordinance prohibits the storage of elm wood in the City with the bark intact. All bark must be removed to eliminate beetle harborage.

39. Who handles and removes graffiti in Parks?

Please contact Park Maintenance at (763) 585-7100.

40. Who do I contact to repair playground equipment in City parks?

Please contact Park Maintenance at (763) 585-7100.

41. Who do I contact regarding damages or vandalism in City parks?

Please contact Park Maintenance at (763) 585-7100.

42. Who do I contact regarding ice rink maintenance?

Please contact Park Maintenance at (763) 585-7100.

43. What are some common water quality questions?

What is the hardness of our City water?

Elements that contribute to water hardness are calcium and magnesium. Our City water hardness is about 23 grains per gallon

What are the black specks in my bath tub?

The black water or black specks, sometimes looking like pepper corns, are caused from the mineral manganese and are most often seen in the hot water. More complaints about manganese are generated from apartments rather than single family homes. When water enters a water heater, the manganese is in solution. Heat precipitates out the manganese. More heat will result in the appearance of more black specks. The solution is to adjust the water heater temperature to 120-125? F, flush the water heater, and also flush each individual faucet. Removal of the faucet aerator will speed up the flushing process.

Why is my water cloudy?

Typically water is cloudy due to air in the water. The air usually comes from the aerator on your faucet. If your water is cloudy, fill a glass and let it set for a few minutes, it should clear up. If not, please call Public Utilities at (763) 585-7100.

Does the City provide water testing?

City water is routinely tested for many substances as required by the Minnesota Department of Health. Please refer to the Consumer Confidence Report that is posted on the city's web site. The city does not provide water testing services. Please check the Yellow Pages, under laboratories, for companies that provide that service.

Where does the City of Brooklyn Center get its drinking water?

Drinking water in Brooklyn Center comes from high capacity groundwater wells that are approximately 300' deep.

What is Manganese?

Manganese is a naturally occurring mineral that is found in many sources of ground water. Manganese is the cause of most complaints regarding black water/specks or oily film in coffee and swimming pools. There are no enforceable drinking water standards for manganese.

44. Why and how often does the City flush the fire hydrants?

The City flushes fire hydrants every spring to get rid of and prevent the build up of iron and manganese.

45. Where should I direct my sump pump water?

Sump pump water may not be disposed of into the sanitary sewer. The preferred method of disposing of sump water is onto ones own lawn so the water can infiltrate into the soil. Water should be directed at least 10 feet away from the building foundation to ensure that the water does not recirculate and return.

46. What should I do if my sewer backs up?

If your sewer backs up, first contact the City's Utilities Division at (763) 585-7100, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. After hours, weekends or on holidays, call 911 (the dispatcher will contact the appropriate on-call service staff).

47. Where do I report a leaking or damaged hydrant?

If you suspect a hydrant leak or damage, please call the Utilities Division at (763) 569-3390, between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. After business hours, on weekends, and holidays, please call 911 (the dispatcher will contact the appropriate on-call service staff).

48. Does the City have any water restrictions or sprinkling ban in place?

Yes. Water sprinkling is restricted in in the summer months, May 1 through September 30, with an Odd-Even Sprinkling Ban. Click here for more information.

49. Why does my new water heater make the hot water stink?

A rotten-egg smell comes from hydrogen sulphide gas dissolved in the water. Concentrations of as little as one part per million can result in this odor. The smell is a result of four factors that must all be present for the odor to develop in the water heater. 1) A high concentration of sulfate in the raw water; 2) Little or no dissolved oxygen in the water; 3) Sulfate-reducing bacteria within the water heater (this bacteria is nontoxic to humans.); and 4) An excess of active hydrogen in the tank. The cathodic action of the anode cause the hydrogen and sulfur to combineforming hydrogen sulfide gas that produces the rotten-egg odor. Active use of the water heater will reduce the problem. Idle water heaters (during vacations) will allow accumulations of hydrogen sulfide gas. Smelly water can most easily be eliminated or reduced by replacing the anode with one of less active material (magnesium to aluminum) and then flushing the water-heating system. If chemical or other odors exist, please contact the Utilities Division or a licensed plumber immediately.

50. My water meter is in a Well pit. How can I keep it from freezing?

During sub-zero temperatures, water meters housed in well pits or enclosed closets may freeze and break. One way to avoid a potential problem is to allow heat to circulate around the meter by leaving the access unobstructed and the doors to the meter closet open.

51. Who is responsible to repair my water meter?

The City is responsible for water meter repairs due to normal use. Please contact the Water Department at (763) 569-3390 if your meter is noisy or if you have leak at the meter.

52. Where do I report a water main break that is in a street or yard?

If you suspect a water main break, please call our Utilities Division at (763) 569-3390 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. After business hours, on weekends, and holidays, please call our 24-hour emergency number at 911 (the dispatcher will call the appropriate on-call service staff).

53. How does the City maintain the sewer systems in order to prevent sewer backups?

The City has a comprehensive sewer maintenance plan, which helps prevent sewer backups and reduce maintenance costs. Some aspects of the plan include 1) Inspecting every manhole two times a year often resulting in cleaning efforts in a few areas 2) Hydraulic root saw and removal occurs on an as needed basis each year 3) Potential trouble spots in the sewer system are inspected three times a year. This maintenance and prevention program has resulted in very few sewer incidents.

54. How much water is used by one person on average?

The average, one person uses approximately 3,000 to 5,000 gallons per month or 9,000 to 15,000 gallons per quarter. Various factors affect your water usage (personal habits, lawn watering, etc.) Your bill will fluctuate based on your water usage.

55. My house is connected to temporary water. Is the water safe to drink?

Yes. The water that is supplied through a temporary water system comes from the City's wells. Although the water may be a warmer temperature, it is safe to drink. The temporary water system is tested for bacteria prior to being placed into service.

56. What should I do about frozen water pipes in the house?

If you are experiencing frozen water pipes in your house, here are a few tips that might help: Use hair dryer to heat the pipes. Wrap pipes with rags or towels and pour hot water over them until water is flowing again. Put a heater by the frozen pipes area to allow heat to circulate around the pipes. Put a fan by the frozen pipes area to allow air to circulate around the pipes. If the freezing has caused the pipes or fittings to crack, you will need to repair the pipes or contact a licensed plumber.

If the water service lines to your house freeze, please contact the City Utility Billing Division right away for more information.

57. Why do I smell sewer in my house?

A sewer odor is usually caused by a dried out or missing plumbing drain trap. Any drain that is not used for a period of time can dry out and allows sewer gas (methane) to escape into the house. Sewer gas doesn't smell like rotten eggs in all circumstances. Pouring a quart or so of hot water into all of the drains in the basement, including floor drain(s), showers, etc. usually solves the problem.

58. I need to dig in my yard. How do I get my utilities marked?

State law requires you call Gopher State One Call at (651) 454-0002 before beginning any digging projects on your property. Within 48 hours, Gopher State One Call will locate all underground utilities near the proposed work site to ensure you avoid them. Gopher State One Call Website

59. How do I repair my sewer or water service?

Sewer and water services extending between building structures and the mains in the street are the responsibility of the property owner. Residents will need to hire a contractor to repair damaged service lines. A sewer and water permit is required from the Building and Community Standards Department. For further information contact the Public Utilities Division at (763) 585-7100.

60. Where should I look for my water meter?

Typically, the water meter is usually located in the basement of the home. If the home does not have a basement, the meter is generally located in a heated crawl space under your home or on the ground level floor.

61. What are some common questions regarding street reconstruction?

What will my boulevard look like after the street reconstruction project?

The area will be restored with lawn sod. The property owner is responsible for replacement of special or unique landscaping items. Please call the Engineering Division if you have questions at (763) 569-3340.

When will my street be reconstructed?

The City has developed a Capital Improvement Program (CIP) to guide the systematic replacement of streets within the community based on life span and condition. The pace at which the City can reconstruct or resurface public streets is based on the amount of available funding. Contact the Engineering Division at (763) 569-3340 to discuss the current schedule for street reconstruction in your neighborhood.

My street is going to be reconstructed. Will I be able to get into my driveway during construction?

In general you will be able to access your property after 7:00 pm each weekday and during weekends. During the workday, you may not be able to drive into your driveway while the contractor is installing underground utilities directly in front of your house and when concrete curb is being installed. Residents will not be able to access their driveways with their vehicles for five days after the concrete driveway is poured to allow the concrete material to cure. If you have special needs, please contact the Engineering Division at (763) 569-3340.

What happens to my water sprinkler irrigation system when the street is reconstructed?

During street reconstruction, an existing water sprinkler irrigation system that extends into the right-of-way will be pulled back and replaced at the end of the project. Please call the Engineering Division if you have questions at (763) 569-3340.

62. How do I report standing water in the street?

To report deep puddles or standing water in the street, contact Street Maintenance at (763) 585-7100.

63. Who do I contact to repair a sidewalk?

To report a City sidewalk in need of repair, please contact Street Maintenance at (763) 585-7100.

64. Will the City repair sod damaged from snow plowing?

The City will rake out and seed boulevard turf damage in the spring if the damage was caused by the snow plow. Please contact Public Works Department at (763) 585-7100.

65. Is there a street sweeping program?

The Public Works Department sweeps city streets three times a year to promote safe conditions for all modes of transportation. Over 107 miles of streets and alleys are swept. Clean streets improve air standards and stormwater quality for the citizens of Brooklyn Center. City streets are swept in early Spring, late Summer and Fall. The Fall sweeping is NOT intended to sweep up leaves. Residents may NOT sweep leaves into the street; they are responsible for yard leaf collection.

66. What is a street made from?

Streets are made of a mixture of asphalt cement and aggregate rock, heated and spread on a base of gravel.

67. How do I report a pothole in the street?

To report a pothole, contact Street Maintenance at (763) 585-7100.

68. What are the payment options for Street and Storm Drainage special assessments?

There are three ways to pay Street and Storm Drainage Assessments: 1. Property owners may pay in full, with no interest until September 30. 2. Property owners can pay in full from October 1 to the last business day in November with calculated interest. 3. After the last business day in November, the assessments roll over to Hennepin County for payment over a 10 year period. Please call the Engineering Division if you have questions at (763) 569-3340.

69. What do I do if my mailbox was hit by a snowplow?

If City snow removal equipment directly hit and damaged a properly installed mailbox, the mailbox will be repaired or replaced. Please contact Street Maintenance at (763) 585-7100.