Administrative Building Department Council, Boards & Commission Fire Income Tax Law Department Mayors Court Miscellaneous Parks & Recreation Police Department Refuse/Recycling/Yard Waste Service Garage Senior Center Utilities
Administrative  |  | How can I get a garage sale permit? |  | This permit is available at the Mayor's Office, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Two permits per year, per address are allowed and can be up to four consecutive days (Sundays permissible) at a cost of $2.00 per permit. | Back to Top | | | How can I get a vehicle sale permit? | | If you are wishing to sell a vehicle, you must obtain a permit. These can be obtained in the Mayor's Office, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The permit is good for 30 days. Two permits per year per address are allowed at the cost of $2.00. | | Back to Top | | | How do I get a solicitor/peddler permit? | | Permit applications are available through the Mayor's Office at City Hall and also available online. Solicitors/peddlers must complete the application providing the requested documents and submit it to the Mayor's Office for approval. There is a $250 fee for this permit payable by cash, business check or money order. All door-to-door activity of any nature shall be restricted to the hours of 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. Monday-Friday, noon to 5:00 pm on Sunday; and, prohibited on any state or federal holiday. A violation by the Registrant or any agent thereof any requirement of Section 854.03 is punishable by a fine up to $250.00 per violation. A copy of this permit shall be carried by the solicitor/peddler who goes upon the property of citizens in the City of North Ridgeville. | | Back to Top | | | How do I get a dog license? | | Dog licenses can be purchased at Discount Drug Mart at 33633 Bagley Road, (440) 406-5031 or at the Lorain County Administration Building, Lorain County Auditor's Office, in Elyria, 226 Middle Avenue or call (440) 329-5000. | | Back to Top | | | How do I get a mobile frozen dessert permit? | | The mobile frozen desserts sales permit (ice cream truck vendors) applications are available in the Mayor's Office. There is a $50.00 fee. Applications must be filled out and all criteria met before permit is approved by the Mayor (or designee). You can also access the permit application online by visiting the Permits, Licensing and Additional Services link on our website. | | Back to Top | | | How do I get married by the Mayor? | | - Make appointment at mutually agreeable time by calling the Mayor's Office at (440) 490-2042. The Mayor performs weddings 9 AM to 4 PM, Mon. through Friday.
- Take Mayor's name and date of wedding to the Probate Court at the Justice Center, 225 Court Street, 6th Floor, Elyria. For further information regarding their requirements, costs, etc., visit their link at http://www.loraincounty.com/probate/ or call 329-5295 or 329-5176.
- The Probate Court will give you a packet which you bring to the Mayor's Office anytime during regular business hours, BUT NO LATER THAN 2 DAYS BEFORE THE DATE OF THE WEDDING, so that forms may be filled out and the ceremony prepared.
- Mayor asks that you make a $150 donation when bringing in your license which he gives to the North Ridgeville Senior Center. (Cash, checks or money orders only. Make checks payable to North Ridgeville Senior Center.)
- Return on the chosen date and come to the Mayor's Office to gather. You are allowed to have guests, but witnesses are not required. The ceremony will take place in our Council Chambers. Cameras, music, flowers, etc., are acceptable. The ceremony will take approximately 10 minutes.
Please feel free to call 440-490-2042 if you have any further questions. | | Back to Top |
Building Department | | What is a building permit and when do I need one? | | A building permit is your formal permission to begin construction, demolition, addition or renovation on your property.
The Building Department's certified plans examiners must review your plans to ensure that they comply with the Residential Code of Ohio, local Zoning Ordinances, and other applicable regulations. Building permits regulate types of construction allowed and ensure that building standards are met. The building permit process protects the owner's interests and those of the community at large, and helps to ensure that structural changes are safe. By obtaining a permit, you can also take advantage of the professional expertise of the Building Department's State of Ohio Certified Inspectors. Our staff, Plan Examiners and Inspectors can offer suggestions to help you solve or avoid construction problems. It is to your advantage to ensure that you or your contractor obtain the necessary permits and schedule the required inspections. You will need a building permit if you plan to: Construct a new house Renovate, repair or add to a house Demolish or remove all or a portion of a building Install, change, or remove partitions and load bearing walls Make new openings for, or change the size of, doors and windows Build a detached garage, outbuilding or storage shed Build a balcony or deck Finish a basement Install or modify heating, plumbing or air-conditioning systems Install or reconstruct chimneys or fireplaces Install or add to a driveway Build a fence Install a lawn sprinkler system Put in an in-ground or above ground pool
| | Back to Top | | | When are inspections required? | | It is the responsibility of the permit holder to call for all required inspections. Review the inspection steps with the Building Department person assigning the permit. Whenever an inspection has been requested and work is found to be incomplete or in need of correction(s), there may be a re-inspection fee imposed. | | Back to Top | | | I want to build a new detached garage or storage shed on my property. What do I need to do. | | You must obtain a permit to build detached garages or outbuilding. Visit the Building Department's webpage for the application for the permit. | | Back to Top | | | I need to put a new roof on my house, how do I go about obtaining a permit and what do I need to know? | | Visit the Building Department's webpage for information on re-roof projects and the application for the permit.
| | Back to Top | | | I want to build a deck, what do I need to know and do? | | You will need a permit and construction drawings if the deck exceeds 200 square feet, is attached to the house, is more than 30" above the ground, or serves the exit door. Visit the Building Department's webpage for more information. | | Back to Top | | | I want to build a fence, what do I need to know and do? | | A fence requires a permit for construction. Visit the Building Department's webpage for the permit application. | | Back to Top | | | Can I run my downspouts into the storm sewer? | | No, all downspouts (for new construction) must be run to grade on splash blocks. On an existing building it is recommended that they be run to splash blocks. | | Back to Top | | | Do I need to be registered (as a contractor) to do construction work in North Ridgeville? | | Yes, all contractors and subcontractors must be registered. For more information and the application, visit the Building Department's webpage. | | Back to Top | | | Can I put my company sign in the yard of a dwelling I am doing work on? | | Yes, a temporary sign with a commercial message in a residential zoning district is permitted. One sign per single lot and no individual sign shall exceed eight (8) square feet. | | Back to Top | | | I want to install a pool. What do I need to do? | | Pools require a permit to install. Visit the Building Department's webpage for the permit application. | | Back to Top | | | Do I need a permit to construct a concrete or asphalt driveway, widen and existing driveway, or replace an old driveway? | | Driveway work requires a permit and inspections. Visit the Building Department's webpage for more information and permit application. | | Back to Top | | | Do I need a permit to construct a service or postal walk? | | No | | Back to Top | | | Do I need a permit to construct a concrete patio ? | | No, as long as it is not used for vehicular traffic/parking. Do not direct storm run off onto adjacent property. | | Back to Top | | | Are permits required for public sidewalks and street aprons? | | Yes, permits are required for both. | | Back to Top | | | What type of tree can I plant in my tree lawn? | | The following list of trees shall be permitted in tree lawns (Right-of-Way). Any other species of tree(s) not on the following list shall require the approval of the City of North Ridgeville. | | Back to Top | | | We are interested in putting in a rain barrel to capture some of the run-off from the roof downspout at our residence. This captured water would then be used to water flowers and gardens. What requirements are in place for a rain barrel system? | | There are currently no requirements or restrictions for rain barrels in the City of North Ridgeville. | | Back to Top | | | Can I get a copy of my floor plans from the city? If so, how do I go about obtaining a copy? | | You may make a records request at the building department, it may take a few days to search our off site storage facility. What we have depends on the age of your house and what may have been submitted at the time. If we have your floor plans (or the "model" set from that builder) we can make a copy for a minimal charge. | | Back to Top |
Council, Boards & Commission Fire | | How do I obtain a recreational fire permit? | | The North Ridgeville Fire Department maintains a recreational fire permit program in order to track recreational fire locations and encourage safe burning practices. For additional information please visit the Fire Department's webpage. | | Back to Top |
Income Tax | | What is the tax rate? | | 1 % (.01 - One percent) | | Back to Top | | | | Is there credit provided? | | Yes, although we do not receive any of the monies from the work cities a credit for paying to these communities is allowed. The credit remains at .10 of 1% (.01) | | Back to Top | | | | Do I have to pay estimated tax quarterly? | | Yes, the City of North Ridgeville is a member municipality of the Regional Income Tax Agency (R.I.T.A.). R.I.T.A. is responsible for the administration and collection of all income taxes and serves as an Agent of the City in this capacity. | | Back to Top | | | | What about property, federal and state taxes? | | The property taxes are assessed through the county and you must contact the Lorain County Auditor's office or the Treasurer's office at: (440) 329-5212 or (440) 329-5256. Also we can not answer questions regarding the Federal or State income taxes however you can contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. The State of Ohio Department of Taxation can be reached at 1-800-282-1780. | | Back to Top |
Law Department | | May the Law Department provide me legal advice? | | Due to legal constraints, the Law Department staff is unable to provide legal advice to residents concerning private legal disputes or any other private matters, such as property disputes or eviction proceedings. | | Back to Top |
Mayors Court | | Can I pay for my ticket online? | | Yes, by clicking this link. You can also appear for court, pay at the Mayors Court window, or call in to find out your fine and mail in your payment. If you call in, please have your ticket available for reference. | | Back to Top |
Miscellaneous | | Is there a citywide yard sale? | | Yes, and it is typically held in June of each year and sponsored by the North Ridgeville Chamber of Commerce. For further information regarding this event please contact the Chamber at (440) 327-3737. | | Back to Top | | | Who should I contact to report a street light outage. | | When there is a street light outage, please call 1-888-544-4877 or visit First Energy Corp/Ohio Edison website. By directly contacting First Energy Corp/Ohio Edison, it will speed up the repair time. For hazardous situations If the outage presents a hazardous situation - such as broken glass or lens, the fixture is in danger of falling, the wires are exposed, the pole is damaged, leaning or knocked down - DO NOT complete the form. Instead, call your First Energy Contact Center at 1-800-633-4766 immediately. | | Back to Top | | | Where do I find an employment application for the City of North Ridgeville? | | A printable copy of our employment application can be found under Employment on the City's website or you can obtain a copy from the Administrative Office in City Hall between the hours of 8 AM-4:30 PM, Monday through Friday. | | Back to Top | | | What is the NOPEC Residential Electric/Natural Gas Governmental Aggregation? | | North Ridgeville is a member of NOPEC's natural gas and electric aggregation programs. The Northeast Ohio Public Energy Council (NOPEC) is a nonprofit group of 240 Ohio communities. NOPEC negotiates lower utility rates. In fact, over the past 20 years, NOPEC has saved Ohio consumers hundreds of millions of dollars on their energy costs. NOPEC also provides member communities with energy-saving grants, low-interest rate financing for energy-efficiency projects, and community outreach programs to help residents learn how to save even more.
For a more detailed explanation of the NOPEC governmental aggregation you may call 1-855-667-3201 or visit NOPEC’s website: http://www.nopec.org/ or watch the following 30-minute video: https://youtu.be/nyz_fVPr4vM | | Back to Top | | | Where can I get a list of approved landscaping contractors? | | Contact our Building Department during normal office hours, Monday-Friday from 8 AM-4:30 PM,
(440) 490-2081. | | Back to Top |
Parks & Recreation | | How do I register my bicycle? | | North Ridgeville residents can obtain a bike license at the Parks and Recreation office during normal business hours. Bike information, such as serial number, make/model, tire size, color, etc., will be kept on file at the North Ridgeville Police Department. | | Back to Top | | | Where can I buy a dog license? | | Dog licenses can be purchased at the Lorain County Auditor's Office located at 226 Middle Avenue, Lorain County Administration Building in Elyria or by calling (440) 329-5243 or purchased at Discount Drug Mart located at 33633 Bagley Road, 440-406-5031. | | Back to Top | | | Can I reserve the gazebo at South Central Park? | | The South Central Park gazebo can be reserved for weddings. Permits are issued at the Parks and Recreation office at a cost of $25.00. | | Back to Top | | | Can I reserve a pavilion at South Central Park? | | Yes, you can reserve pavilions in South Central Park. Please visit the Parks & Rec webpage for more information or call (440) 490-2052. | | Back to Top | | | Do I need a license to fish at South Central Park? | | No license is required to fish at South Central Park. Fishing is allowed year round from dawn to dusk. Catch and release is encouraged. | | Back to Top | | | How can I become an instructor? | | If you have a special skill, talent, practical knowledge or experience you would like to share, Parks and Recreation will gladly work with you to set up a program. Send a letter of interest to: Program Supervisor
Parks & Recreation
7327 Avon Belden Road
North Ridgeville, OH 44039 | | Back to Top | | | How do I become a volunteer? | | There are plenty of opportunities to volunteer for programs and special events. Contact the Parks and Recreation Program Supervisor at 440-490-2052 to see how you can help. | | Back to Top |
Police Department | | How do I obtain a copy of a crash report? | | Crash reports usually take 3-5 business days to complete. The records department can be reached at (440) 490-2002, between the hours of 6:00 AM and 2:00 PM, Monday thru Friday. When the report is complete, it can be left for you to pick up at your convenience at the dispatch window, which is open 24 hours a day. Your insurance company can request a copy of the report by fax. Our fax number is (440) 328-4555. When requesting a copy of a crash report, please include the report number. If the report number is unknown, include the driver's name, date of crash, and location, as well as your telephone number and fax number in case we have any questions regarding your request. | | Back to Top | | | How do I obtain a record check for employment? | | Records checks for employment purposes are done for residents of North Ridgeville only. If an employer is requesting a record check, the person having the record check done must come to the police department with a drivers license and a letter from their employer requesting the record check. If the employer did not supply this form, we need a written, signed and dated request from the person needing the record check for employment purposes. This record check is through our department only and NOT a criminal history check through BCI or any other law enforcement agency. | | Back to Top | | | I need to be fingerprinted for employment purposes. Can the police department do that for me? | | Recently the Bureau of Criminal Investigation began accepting AFIS (Automated Fingerprint Identification System) prints only. At this time, our department does not have this technology available to the general public. However, there are several locations in Lorain County that can assist you. (Call the police department at (440) 490-2001 for a list of those locations).
We can assist you with fingerprinting if the employer supplies you with a fingerprint card and you are a resident of North Ridgeville, or work in the city. An appointment is not needed, however you may have a short wait until an officer is available to assist you. Be sure to bring your drivers license or state I.D. card with you. | | Back to Top | | | Can I have a copy of my arrest report? | | As long as an arrest is pending court action, it is not considered a public record. Once it has been adjudicated it is available to the public. If a defendant wants a copy of the arrest report they must file a Motion of Discovery with the court. The request is then given to the Prosecutor's Office to consider. If you have an attorney, he or she can do this for you. | | Back to Top | | | What is the cost for copies of police reports? | | The cost for a crash report and log entries is five cents per page. This cost includes any pages that need to be redacted. | | Back to Top | | | What is considered a public record? | | Any police log or report that is not under investigation or pending any court action is available to the public. Requests need to be as specific as possible and not overly broad. Requests will be handled in a timely fashion and in some cases may take several days before they are available for pick up. For more information, visit the Records Request webpage. | | Back to Top | | | My car was impounded. How do I get it released? | | Depending on why it was towed and impounded, you may need to get a court order to have it released. If so, get the release order from the court. After obtaining the court order release, or if no court order was required, the owner and two drivers with a valid drivers license need to come to the police department to obtain a release which can be taken to the towing company. Once the fees are paid to the tow company, the vehicle can be released. | | Back to Top | | | What towing company does the police department use and where is it located? | | The towing company is Patton's Five Star Towing, located at 8067 Maddock Road in North Ridgeville. They can be reached at 440-353-9558. | | Back to Top | | | Is there a curfew for minors? | | Yes. Juveniles under the age of 16 are not permitted to congregate, loiter, or play upon the streets, sidewalks, public places or places of amusement and entertainment, or to remain away from his or her residence or on unenclosed lands within the city between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. unless accompanied by a parent, guardian, a responsible person 21 years of age or older, or a family member eighteen years of age or older. For Juveniles age 16 and 17, the prohibited hours are between 12:00 midnight and 5:00 a.m. For further information see city ordinance 636.22. | | Back to Top | | | Can parents or guardians of juveniles be held accountable for minors who are in violation of the city's curfew? | | Yes. For further information see city ordinance 636.22. | | Back to Top | | | What should I do if there is a house in my neighborhood where I believe drugs are being sold? | | Contact the police department and report your suspicions. Questions that you may be asked include the days and times when the activity is more prevalent, the description and/or names of any residents of the house, if known, and descriptions of any vehicles that may be involved. It is not necessary to identify yourself, but it will be helpful if you do, so that police officers can contact you with any additional questions they may have. We do not release any information to the suspects regarding people who report drug activity or include that information in any of the investigative reports. | | Back to Top | | | What should I do if I am involved in a traffic crash? | | Remain at the scene and either use a cell phone to call the police or ask someone else to call. Try to give an accurate location as to where the crash occurred. It also helps if you can advise us if anyone was injured or whether any hazardous conditions exist, such as a fire or downed power lines. The more information we have, the better we can ensure that the appropriate emergency equipment is dispatched. | | Back to Top | | | What do I do if I witness a traffic crash? | | Please remain at the scene if possible. The investigating officer will speak to you when he or she arrives. | | Back to Top | | | What do I do if I am a victim of, or witness to, a hit and run crash? | | Remain at the scene if possible and try to get a license plate number, and vehicle and driver description of the hit and run vehicle. The license plate number is the most important piece of information. Do not attempt to chase a hit and run vehicle, especially if your vehicle is damaged. | | Back to Top | | | What should I do if I witness a crime in progress? | | Notify the police immediately. Try to be as accurate as possible by noting the vehicle descriptions and license plate numbers, description of suspects and victims. If the victims or suspects leave the scene before the police arrive, note their direction and method of travel. | | Back to Top | | | What should I do it I am the victim of a crime? | | If it is an emergency, call 911. Otherwise call the police department at (440) 490-2001. The dispatcher will collect the necessary information and assign an officer as needed. | | Back to Top | | | What should I do if I am stopped by the police for a traffic violation? | | Pull your vehicle to the right shoulder of the road, place it in park, and turn off the ignition. Remain in your vehicle with your hands on the steering wheel while the officer approaches unless the officer directs you to do otherwise. Tell your passengers to remain in the vehicle and keep their hands in plain view. Do not reach for the glove compartment or reach around inside the vehicle or on your person to retrieve your drivers license until you are directed to do so by the officer. Do not exit your vehicle at any time during the traffic stop unless you are told to do so by the officer. | | Back to Top | | | I received a traffic citation. What are my options for taking care of the citation? | | The officer wrote the court date and time at the bottom of the ticket. Some citations require a court appearance, while others do not. If a court appearance is not required, you may appear at the Clerk of Courts office any time before the court date, during the court's regular business hours, and pay the fine or you can pay online. If you are unsure whether you are required to appear in court or not, contact the Clerk of Court. The phone numbers for the courts may be found on the back of the ticket. | | Back to Top | | | Will your officers respond if I call about a stray cat wandering around my property? | | The department will issue you traps to aid in the capture of feral/stray cats. If a feral/stray cat is caught in the borrowed trap, you are legally and financially responsible for it. NRPD will not respond. Some legal options for trapped feral/stray cats include: releasing it back onto your property, contacting rescue organizations, trap-neuter-release (back onto your own property), gaining permission from another land owner to release it upon their property, transporting the cat to a veterinarian/animal clinic to be euthanized. | | Back to Top | | | | What should I do if I have a problem with a stray dog in my neighborhood? | | Call the Police Department to report the problem at (440) 490-2001. Please be able to describe what the dog looks like and if you know where it lives. | | Back to Top | | | I have an animal that I can no longer keep. Will officers pick it up and take it to the Animal Protective League (APL)? | | No. Your animals are your responsibility to care for. You may call the Friendship APL at (440) 322-4321 and see if they have room or can suggest another alternative. | | Back to Top | | | What should I do if a stray animal bites me? | | Seek medical attention if necessary and then call the Police Department to report the bite. Please try to give the investigating officer as much information as possible, including the animal's description and the name and address of the owner if known. | | Back to Top | | | Am I allowed to shoot a pellet or BB gun on my property? | | The use of air guns, BB guns, or pellet guns are permitted within the city by persons 12 years of age or older. Anyone under 12 years of age must be accompanied and supervised by an adult. (ORD 672.09) Any air gun, BB gun, or pellet gun used in violation of this ordinance may be confiscated by the police and its disposition decided by the court. | | Back to Top | | | Where can a I purchase a permit for solicitation, how long does it take for approval, how much does it cost, and can multiple people sign up under one business? | | Permit applications are available through the Mayor's Office or available on the website under Permits, Licensing and Additional Services. Solicitors/peddlers must complete the application including the requested documents and submit it to the Mayor's Office for approval. There is a $250 fee for this permit payable by cash, money order or business check. All door-to-door activity of any nature shall be restricted to the hours of 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Monday thru Saturday; noon to 5:00 PM on Sundays; and, prohibited on any state or federal holiday. A violation by the Registrant or any agent thereof any requirement of Section 854.03 is punishable by a fine up to $250.00 per violation. A copy of this permit shall be carried by each solicitor/peddler who goes upon the property of citizens in the City of North Ridgeville. | | Back to Top | | | Are officers allowed to park in private residential driveways to run radar? I know in some cities, they are not allowed. | | There is nothing legally preventing officer's from using residential driveways or private property to run radar. However, if a property owner prefers that the police not use their property, it is not used. The vast majority of the time, officer's do not utilize residential property unless specifically invited to do so by the property owner, and many homeowners complete written documents giving officers specific permission to utilize their driveway. | | Back to Top |
Refuse/Recycling/Yard Waste | | When is garbage and recycling picked up? | | Each residence is supplied with a blue trash cart and a green recycling cart. Garbage, bulk, yard waste and recycling is picked up every Tuesday throughout the city. Please limit your bulk each week to four items.
| | Back to Top | | | When is yard waste picked up? | | Yard waste is collected every Tuesday year round. Christmas trees will be picked up the first two weeks in January.
| | Back to Top | | | What time do they start collection and how early can I put garbage, recycling and yard waste out for pick up? | | Collection starts at 6:00 AM and can vary from week to week. Your blue trash cart, green recycling cart, bulk items, and yard waste should not be placed at the curb earlier than thirty-six hours before the day of your scheduled collection and should not be placed too close to the street as to create a hazardous condition to drivers and pedestrians. Some developments or associations may have other stipulations regarding when or where these items may be set out for collection so please be sure to check the individual rules and regulations for the area where you live.
| | Back to Top | | | What if there is a holiday during the week; when will collection be? | | Pick-Up is only delayed one day if a legally recognized major holiday falls on a Monday or Tuesday that week. Example 1: Memorial Day - Pick-up will be on Wednesday. Example 2: Thanksgiving Day - Pick up will still be on Tuesday prior to Thanksgiving. Our current refuse hauler does not work on the following holidays only: - New Years Day
- Memorial Day
- Independence Day
- Labor Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
- All other holidays will not affect the weekly collection schedule.
| | Back to Top | | | Is recycling mandatory in North Ridgeville? | | No. Recycling is not currently mandatory in North Ridgeville but we strongly encourage all residents to participate in the recycling program. Recycling is not only good for the environment by saving energy and resources but it saves valuable landfill space.
| | Back to Top | | | What materials are accepted for recycling? | | Glass, plastic, cans, newspapers, magazines, junk mail, paperboard and cardboard may be placed in your green recycling cart all together. All glass beverage bottles and jars may be recycled but please rinse the containers and remove the lids and neck rings. The paper labels do not need to be removed from glass bottles or jars. Plastic milk containers and plastic bottles and containers that have the numbers 1 through 7 stamped on the bottom may be recycled and should also be rinsed out. Aluminum and steel cans should be rinsed out and should have any paper labels removed. You may place all of your recyclables in your green cart loose but ALL of your recyclables must fit into your green cart. Any type of bags or containers outside of your green cart that contain recyclables will not be picked up. | | Back to Top | | | What kind of containers do I need to use for my recycling? | | The green recycling cart provided by Allied Waste. | | Back to Top | | | When are Christmas trees picked up? | | Christmas trees will be collected during a special collection the first two weeks of January each year. | | Back to Top | | | How do I get rid of tree branches or brush? | | Tree shrub and brush trimmings securely tied together forming easily handled packages not exceeding four (4) feet in length or fifty (50) pounds in weight. They should be tied with twine or string (no wire please). | | Back to Top | | | Do I need to bag my grass clippings? | | If you do not currently bag your grass clippings, it is not necessary to do so. The city discourages the bagging of grass clippings and encourages our residents to mulch their grass clippings whenever possible and practical. | | Back to Top | | | What kind of containers do I need to use for my yard waste? | | Yard Waste such as grass clippings, leaves, weeds or garden waste should be placed in clear plastic bags, brown paper bags, or a loose trash container marked as "yard waste" no larger than 32 gallons nor exceed 50 pounds in weight. | | Back to Top | | | Can I throw out large items such as furniture or appliances on collection day? | | Yes put bulky waste items such as furniture, mattresses (in a mattress bag), stoves, washers, dryers and water tanks and extra trash each week during regular pick-up but limiting to four items of bulk per week. This includes old furniture, appliances and other bulky waste items. | | Back to Top | | | Do I need to call someone to have a special pick up for large items? | | No but your bulky items and extra trash can be left out each week for regular pick-up limiting four bulk items per pick-up. | | Back to Top | | | What do I need to do if I need to get rid of a refrigerator? | | In the case of refrigerators or freezers, the door should be removed as a safety precaution. | | Back to Top | | | We just moved and we have a lot of boxes to get rid of, what should we do with them? | | Empty cardboard boxes should be broken down to smaller sizes and placed inside other larger boxes or tied and taped together for easy disposal and placed inside your green recycling cart. | | Back to Top | | | Is there anything that will not be picked up with the garbage? | | Yes, construction debris, remodeling materials, auto parts, tires, dead animals, hazardous waste or any other items not deemed to be regular residential refuse will not be collected. | | Back to Top | | | Is there someplace that I can take old tires? | | Yes, the Lorain County Collection Center accepts all sorts of recyclables items from tires, paint, fluorescent bulbs, batteries, household hazardous wastes, etc. The center is located at 540 South Abbe Road, Elyria and their hours of operation are Mondays from 9 AM-3 PM, Wednesdays from Noon-6 PM and Saturdays from 9 AM – 3 PM. Please visit Lorain County Collection Center for a complete list of acceptable items or call 440-329-5440. | | Back to Top | | | What kinds of tires are accepted and which ones are not accepted? | | A maximum of 10 tires per visit are accepted on-the-rim or off-the-rim and include; Small equipment, passenger car, SUV, minivan, non-commercial van and pickup truck tires up to 17" rim diameter as well as all bicycle and motorcycle tires. Tires that are NOT ACCEPTABLE for drop off include; semi-truck, trailer and farm equipment tires or any other tires used in the operation of a commercial business or farm. Please visit Lorain County Collection Center for a complete list of acceptable items or call 440-329-5440. | | Back to Top | | | Is there someplace that I can take used motor oil? | | Yes, the city Service Department located at 35010 Bainbridge Road will accept clean used motor oil from Lorain County residents only during regular business hours, Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM. | | Back to Top | | | Are there any guidelines or limitations to the used motor oil that is dropped off? | | Clean used motor oil; up to 5 gallons maximum per day, will be accepted. "Clean" means oil not mixed with brake fluid, antifreeze, gasoline or other fluids and is free of most dirt an other solid matter. Used motor oil should be transported only in well-sealed containers. Please call the Service Department in advance at (440) 490-2094 for permission to bring in larger quantities. | | Back to Top | | | How can I get an additional blue trash cart? | | You may call Allied Waste at (440) 458-5191 and request an additional blue trash cart for an additional quarterly fee, to be billed directly to the customer by Allied Waste. |
| | Back to Top | | | How can I get an additional green recycling cart? | | Please call the Public Utilities Department at (440) 490-2049. | | Back to Top | | | I have an old 25 inch TV that is 5 years old. The repair may be simple (won't turn on). Is there a place that can use it or a recycle center to dispose of electronics? | | Non-console household televisions up to 27" may be taken to the Lorain County Collection Center. For more information and a list of acceptable items, please visit Lorain County Collection Center. | | Back to Top | | | Is it possible to discontinue refuse service to a house? | | By ordinance the refuse charge is linked to the water bill, so if there is water being supplied to the house, the refuse service is also provided. In order to avoid being charged refuse in a vacant home, the water must be shut off at the street by the Public Utilities Department. For those leaving during the Winter for three months or longer, we can place refuse service on 'vacation hold', during which time there must be no water consumption on the account. There is still a minimum charge for water/sewer for having water on at the street. If a home is vacant for other reasons, such as while living elsewhere and selling the home, the only way to stop refuse service is to have the water shut off at the street by the Public Utilities Department, at which point there would be no bill at all for water, sewer or refuse. | | Back to Top |
Service Garage | | Where can I dispense transmission fluid? | | Please bring the transmission fluid to the Service Department. We have a used oil drum here. Engine or transmission oil are both dumped in the same drum to be recycled. | | Back to Top | | | Is the city responsible for replacement of a mailbox damaged by a city plow? | | If you have a mailbox that has been damaged by a city snow plow, please contact our Service Department at (440) 490-2094 or report it via our webpage. This way we can log it and place you on our schedule to replace or repair your mailbox. | | Back to Top |
Senior Center Utilities | | What information do I need to set up electronic utility payments? | | Before creating a new enrollment, gather the following information: a copy of your most recent bill that includes your account number and CID number of the bill you want to pay electronically, the bank account number (of the checking or savings account you will use to pay the bill by eCheck), the bank routing number (of the institution at which you have the checking or savings account with, also for payments made by eCheck) or have your Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Apple Pay, Google Pay or Discover card nearby. You may also sign up to pay by text. | | Back to Top | | | The balance due on my bill doesn't seem to be right. What should I do? | | Contact the Public Utilities Department at (440) 490-2049 for all questions about your account balance. | | Back to Top | | | What if my payment account does not have sufficient funds to cover a payment? | | We make withdrawals authorized by you from the checking or savings account that you designate as the payment account. As with any payment account, you must provide sufficient funds to cover all payments. Since we have no knowledge of your account balance at any time, we cannot notify you if your payment account has insufficient funds. There may be additional charges for payments attempted against accounts with insufficient funds. | | Back to Top | | | Is it safe to pay bills online using your service? Can my personal information be seen by others? | | We are committed to protecting your personal information. In addition, whenever you are viewing or paying bills, you are using a secure connection that fully protects your information. Data you provide cannot be viewed by anyone else on the Web. We do not share your information with anyone else. Security is maintained by industry-standard SSL (secure socket layer) encryption and decryption technology. The SSL protocol is used to ensure that your information is sent directly to us, and that only we can decode it. | | Back to Top | | | How often am I billed, when is the bill sent and when it is due? | | Customers will receive a bill on a monthly basis. It will be processed around the 1st or 2nd of each month and should arrive by 8th or 9th of each month. The bill is due approximate 16-18 days after the billing date. | | Back to Top | | | How much is the fee that is assessed for late payments after the due date? | | The late fee is equal to 10% of the current water, stormwater and sewer charge on your bill. There is no late fee assessed on the arrears or for refuse charges. | | Back to Top | | | How is my water bill calculated? | | Your water bill is calculated based on actual or estimated meter readings that are taken on a monthly basis. The measurement of water from your meter is in cubic feet and rates for billing purposes are based on 100 cubic feet. Water rates are available online or at the Public Utilities Department. | | Back to Top | | | How is my sewer billing amount calculated? | | Your sewer bill is calculated based on the metered water usage for your home. If the metered water usage is 600 cubic feet, then the sewer bill is calculated for 600 cubic feet. The most current sewer rates for both residential and commercial customers are available online or at the Public Utilities Department. | | Back to Top | | | Where and how can I pay my North Ridgeville utility bill? | | You may pay your utility bill at our customer service window inside City Hall, at our drive-up window (cash or check only) on the north side of the building or in our night drop, after hours, located next to the drive-up window. You may also mail in the payment using the return envelope included in your monthly bill. Also, we have an automated "Pay by Phone" system available 24 hours a day for card and checking account payments. The phone number is 1-855-786-5306. You'll need your North Ridgeville account number and amount in order to start the process. | | Back to Top | | | Why does my water smell or taste funny during the warmer months? | | Summer brings higher algae counts in greater abundance on Lake Erie. One type in particular, Ceratium hirundinella, has a fishy or grassy taste and odor, which is very common in our area. It's a natural occurrence and it's very difficult to eliminate it totally. In this instance, the water's taste and odor poses no health risks but is less appealing to the senses. Increased algae is a yearly phenomenon that occurs during the hottest months of the year. Natural phosphate and potassium fertilizers filter from the land and are joined by nitrogen in the air and higher lake temperatures. During summer, fish eat in deeper, cooler water, allowing the bacteria to grow without much reduction. Some years are worse than others and are always affected by natural conditions that exist from year to year. Helpful Hint: You should turn off outside spigots and disconnect garden hoses when not in use. When a hose is connected and the spigot is on with water left in the hose, the sun heats up the water in the hose, promoting algae growth. The heating of the water in the hose will also cause it to expand and begin forcing water back inside the house through the inside plumbing. The water from the hose may then be siphoned back into the house when a faucet is turned on inside, thus causing the water that you just got from the faucet to have an unpleasant odor and taste. | | Back to Top | | | What can be done if I water my lawn in the summer but I don't want to pay for the sanitary sewer? | | You may purchase an additional meter for outside water usage, allowing the customer to pay for water that is used outside without paying for the sanitary sewer usage. A permit must be obtained from the Building Department for inspection of the meter set-up. Sewer Deduct Meter installation information and cost is available at the Public Utilities Department. | | Back to Top | | | Do you offer any discounts on services to Senior Citizens? | | Discounts are offered to residents that are 62 years of age or older. The water discount is realized when the customer uses under the minimum billing amount of 400 cubic feet, they are only charged for the water that is actually used and there are no penalties levied for late payments. The refuse discount is $1.00 off of the current regular residential rate. There is also an additional discount of $1.00 off of the refuse rate for residents that are qualified for the Homestead Exemption through the Lorain County Auditor’s Office. Forms for the water and refuse discounts may be obtained from the Public Utilities Department or available on the department's webpage. A copy of the approved Homestead Exemption application must accompany the refuse discount for residents applying for the additional refuse discount. | | Back to Top | | | What do I need to do to transfer water, sewer and refuse billing into my name? | | TRANSFER OF WATER RIGHTS: Codified city ordinance 1046.18, as amended by 4909-2012 states; All applications for water service and requests for initiation of new accounts shall be submitted in person at the Public Utilities Department, or in special circumstances including applications by out-of-state property owners by electronic methods and procedures approved by the Public Utilities Department Supervisor. All property owners or property management agents acting on their behalf must apply for their own service and supply the Public Utilities Department with the bill mailing address and provide a photo identification at that time. A copy of the photo identification shall be retained on file. | | Back to Top | | | Do you accept credit cards for payments? | | Yes. You can pay online by visiting our website and clicking the "Pay Utility Bill" icon or our automated "Pay by Phone" service at 1-855-786-5306. We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Pay by Text and Discover cards. | | Back to Top | | | Do I need to enroll in order to pay by credit card or e-check online? | | No. Just click on the "Pay Utility Bill" icon on the city's website and you can pay using your Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Pay by Text and Discover or checking account by selecting the “Checkout with Quick Pay” option as a one-time payment. If you do decide to enroll, you can receive, view and pay your bills and also set up automatic payment preferences to handle all of your North Ridgeville utility bill needs every month. | | Back to Top | | | Can I pay my bill with a credit card at the office or over the phone? | | You can pay at the Public Utilities Department window in City Hall with your credit card. Only cash and check payments will be accepted at the drive-thru window. You may also use our automated "Pay by Phone" service at 1-855-786-5306. We accept Visa, Master Card, American Express, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Discover cards. | | Back to Top | | | Yesterday was a holiday; will they still be collecting garbage and recyclables today? | | Our current refuse and recycling hauler, Allied Waste Systems, still collects on certain holidays so they do not alter their schedule for every holiday. The holidays that they do not work are New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Tuesday collection will only be affected if the holiday falls on a Monday or Tuesday. In that case, pick-up will be delayed one day Wednesday. | | Back to Top | | | I've heard that I can get a credit for sewer when I fill up my swimming pool, what do I need to do? | | City ordinance # 2118-86 provides for sewer credits for filling your swimming pool so long as the pool is at least four feet in height and the water used is at least 80% of the volume needed to fill the pool. You must call the Public Utilities Department prior to filling your pool and inform us of the size and shape of the pool, date you are filling it along with your name, address and telephone number. The volume of water needed to fill the pool in order to receive credit is then calculated and credit is given based on actual water meter readings obtained from your meter in previous months. More information is available here. | | Back to Top | | | How can I dispose of a refrigerator or a freezer? | | You need to remove the door of the item to prevent a safety hazard to children. | | Back to Top | | | My bill seems really high and I don't think we used that much water, what could be the problem? | | There are several factors that may contribute to a high water bill. The biggest culprit is a leaking toilet. They are hard to detect since they may be slow leaks that seep right into the toilet bowl or run out the overflow in the back of the toilet tank without making much noise, depending on how severe the leak is, or leaving a mess such as wet floors or carpets. Other factors include but are not limited to, having company over the holidays; water left running while away, other leaks such as dripping faucets or utility tubs, excess laundry or outside watering or washing cars in the summer. Remember that when your water usage increases, your sewer usage also increases. If you feel this could be the problem, please call the office and we will be happy to set up an appointment. | | Back to Top | | | I never received a utility bill this month, what should I do? | | Unfortunately, for some reason, a bill may get lost in the mail or misplaced. If you notice that you have not received a bill by the 8th or 9th of the month, please call the office and we can tell you how much you owe and when it is due so you can avoid the late fees. You may then mail your payment to us or drop it off at our office. Please include your account number on your check and if you pay in person and need a receipt for cash, we will be happy to give you one. | | Back to Top | | | When is garbage, recyclables and yard waste collected in North Ridgeville? | | Each residence is supplied with a blue trash cart and a green recycling cart. Garbage, recycling, bulk (limit four items) and yard waste is picked up every Tuesday year round. | | Back to Top | | | Is there a fee to turn the water on at a property? | | Generally, a $10.00 fee will be charged to turn the water back on at a property unless the water service has been disconnected due to delinquency. In the event that the water service has been shut off for non-payment of the bill, the turn on fee is $45.00. If the Service Department is required to re-establish water service after normal business hours, a charge shall be added to the bill in the amount equal to the actual cost incurred by the City for such after-hour service, in lieu of the forty-five dollar charge. | | Back to Top | | | What if my water was shut off for non-payment but I need it turned back on after regular business hours or on the weekend? | | If the Water Department is required to re-establish water service after normal business hours, a charge will be added to the applicable turn on fee in an amount equal to the actual cost incurred by the city for the after-hours service call. The person making the request for turn will need to appear in person at the North Ridgeville Police Department where you will need to pay the past due amount in full and sign a waiver agreeing to pay the call out fee, which will be included on your next monthly utility bill along with the actual turn on fee. | | Back to Top |
|
|