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1. Does the Animal Shelter adopt out dogs and cats?

Yes, the Animal Shelter highly encourages the adoption of dogs and cats. 

2. Can citizens receive citations if their dog runs loose?

Animal owners may be cited per City Ordinance Chapter 10, Article 3, Section 10-90 if their animal is loose.

3. Does animal control pick up dead animals?

Yes.

4. How many dogs/cats are allowed at a single residence?

A total of five dogs/cats, in any combination is permitted. No more.

5. Are all dogs in the city limit required to be licensed?

Yes.

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1. Where do I obtain a birth certificate copy for someone born in Port Arthur?

You can obtain a birth certificate copy at the City of Port Arthur Health Department, 449 Austin Avenue, Port Arthur, TX 77641. To contact the Division of Vital Statistics by phone, please call 409-983-8850 or 409-983-8853. Office Hours are from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. For mail order copies, please contact the Health Department directly at 409-983-8850 or 409-983-8853.

2. Who is eligible to obtain a birth certificate copy?

The person named on the birth certificate

A parent of the person named on the certificate (requesting parent's name must be on the birth certificate)

A spouse, child, or other persons, by order of a Texas State Court

3. What are the identification requirements to obtain a birth certificate copy?

To obtain a copy of a birth certificate, the requester must have a state-issued drivers license, a state-issued I.D. card, or a current passport.

4. What is the fee for a birth certificate copy?

The fee is $22 per certificate. Payments for mail order copies may be by check or money order made payable to the City of Port Arthur Health Department (Do not send cash). Payments for mail order copies submitted from foreign countries must be drawn on a U.S. bank, or by international money order (Do not send cash).

5. How long will obtaining a birth certificate copy take?

- Request made in person will be processed immediately
- Requests made by mail will be processed and mailed withing 3 days.

For expedited service (overnight), you must contact the Texas Department of Health in Austin, Texas at 512-458-7111.

Note: Processing times are approximate and may vary depending on workload as well as circumstances beyond our control.

6. Where do I obtain a death certificate copy for someone who died in Port Arthur?

You can obtain a death certificate copy at:
City of Port Arthur Health Department
449 Austin Avenue
Port Arthur, TX
Phone: 409-983-8850 or 409-983-8853
Office Hours: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

7. Who is eligible to obtain a death certificate copy?

- The spouse, parent/guardian or child of the deceased
- Other persons who have a:
- Documented lawful right or claim
- Documented medical need
- State of Texas Court

8. What is a lawful right or claim?

If the applicant is not the spouse, parent of child of the deceased, a lawful right or claim must be documented. An example of lawful right or claim would be a death record needed by the applicant to claim a benefit. Documentation would consist of an official letter from the agency verifying that to process the claim they require a copy of the requested death record.

9. What is the fee for a death certificate copy?

The fee is $20 for the first copy and $3 for any additional copies. Additional copies must be in your initial request to qualify for the $3 additional copy fee.

10. How long will it take to obtain a death certificate copy?

- Requests made in person will be processed immediately.
- Requests made by mail will be handled on a case-by-case basis. Please contact the Port Arthur Health Department at 409-983-8850 or 409-983-8853.

Note: Processing times are approximate and may vary depending on workload as well as circumstances beyond our control.

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1. Who does the City Attorney work for?

Under the City Charter, the City Attorney is directly appointed by the City Council and serves at the pleasure of the Council. The City Attorney also provides legal advice and support for all City officers and employees relating to their acts which are within the course and scope of their employment or official duties.

2. Does the City Attorney get involved in private legal matters?

No, the City Attorney does not take part in private legal matters. As a City department, its role is to act as counsel and provide legal services to City Council, the City Manager, and other City departments. They do not provide advice or representation to public citizens.

3. I have an outstanding ticket I need to pay. What do I need to do?

For information regarding outstanding tickets contact the Municipal Court at
(409) 983-8686.

4. How can I get a copy of a City ordinance or resolution?

Official copies of all ordinances and resolutions are kept on file with the City Secretary's Office. To request a copy contact them at (409) 983-8115.

Port Arthur Code of Ordinances and Charter

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1. When are City Council Meetings held?

City Council meetings are typically held on Tuesdays, but always verify the date and time prior to the meeting.

City Council Meeting Schedule for 2020

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1. How much does it cost to rent the Civic Center?

$1,250 for rental fees plus a $500 refundable deposit.

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1. What is required to receive approval for my residential construction project?

Residential Construction Plans being submitted for approval must include two (2) sets of plans.

The City of Port Arthur currently using the 2015 International Residential Code (as of October 16, 2012)

• A survey of property and site plan is needed showing the setbacks for the front, side and rear of the property. Site plans must be done by a licensed professional. All new construction must install sidewalks for new homes and provide off-street parking for occupants.
• Foundation plans are required for the structure(s).
• Details of electrical and plumbing components for the structure(s) are required.
• Elevation views of the structure are required.

In the flood zones, special design plans for the foundation must be designed by an Engineer. An elevation certificate is also required prior to issuance of a permit and after completion of work.

• Framing plans showing spans and lumber sizes are required.
• Windows must conform to the Windstorm requirements for this area and must meet impact resistant standards, or an acceptable shuttering system must be provided for each window.
• Design wind load for this area is 120 mph (3 sec gust 130) for residential structures and 130 mph for commercial buildings. Design wind load for the coastal exposure is 140 mph.
• A building permit is required for all remodeling/renovation jobs.

2. How much does it cost to get a Storm Water Prevention Application Permit?

A Storm Water Prevention Application Permit is now required per Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regulations. The permit fee is $45 per acre.

3. What are the commercial project requirements?

On commercial projects two sets of plans with wet seals on first sheets are required. Any project that is either a new, or out-of-ground building, will require an engineer’s seal. A full set of plans (24 x 36) is required. A complete set of civil plans are also required. Com Check calculations (for Commercial Compliance) and compliance with the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code® (IECC®)  is required. 

4. What are the asbestos requirements for public/commercial buildings undergoing renovation/remodel?

Remodeling jobs for public or commercial buildings require an asbestos survey prior to issuance of a permit. A letter of compliance from the asbestos consultant will be needed before any work can proceed. 

All plans shall be submitted to: 

City of Port Arthur

Building Inspection Division

444 4th Street

Port Arthur, TX 77640

5. Do I need to register with the Texas Department of Licensing and Registration (TDLR)?

TDLR (Texas Department of Licensing and Registration) registration is required at submission for projects valued in excess of $50,000. You can reach TDLR by phone at 1-800-803-9202.

6. How long is the plan review process?

Review of commercial plans runs 15-20 days depending on workload and size of project being submitted.

Residential project plan reviews take 7-10 days on average.

7. What are the Energy Code requirements?

Checks for commercial and residential structures are required at plan submission. Residential buildings/structures must comply with chapter 11 of the 2015 International Residential Code (IRC). Commercial projects must comply with the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code® (IECC®).

8. Is there a plan check fee?

Plan check fees apply to all commercial projects with plans. The Fee is due at submission of permit application and is in addition to the permit fee. The plan check fee is calculated as 65% of the permit fee. Reference Section 18-33 of The Code of Ordinances.

Total Valuation	Fee
$1,001.00 to $50,000.00	$35.00 for the first $1,000.00 plus $6.25 each additional thousand or fraction thereof, to and including $50,000.00
$50,001.00 to $100,000.00	$293.00 for the first $50,000.00 plus $5.20 for each additional thousand or fraction thereof, to and including $100,000.00
$100,001.00 to $500,000.00	$500.00 for the first $100,000.00 plus $4.15 for each additional thousand or fraction thereof, to and including $500,000.00
$500,001.00 and up	$2,000.00 for the first $500,000.00 plus $3.10 for each additional thousand or fraction thereof

9. Are contractors required to be bonded/insured?

Yes. The minimum amount for small project (such as foundation and roofing) bonds is $15,000; large projects require a $25,000 bond and all contractors require a Certificate of Insurance in order to perform work in the City of Port Arthur. The minimum amount is $100,000 and must list the City of Port Arthur as a certificate holder.

10. Is a permit required for refacing existing signs?

A permit IS required for refacing existing signs. Application must be submitted to the Inspections Office, prior to beginning work.

11. Are plans required to install new signs?

Yes. City ordinances have been recently updated, and the new specifications will be posted as they become available. 

In addition, signage plans are required to be submitted to the Building Inspections Office in the City Hall Annex Building for review and permitting, prior to the commencement of any work.
For additional information on the placement of signs, you may contact the Chief Building Official at 409-983-8261.

12. Do I need a permit to build a fence?

Yes. Fence permits are required for the installation of fences from (at least) four feet high, and above.

13. How can I get a copy of a previously issued permit?

All request for records regarding permits issued and contractors should be submitted first to the City Secretary’s office.

14. Do I need an asbestos survey for a commercial building?

Yes. If there is any demolition work performed on a commercial building, or construction that disturbs the existing walls, floors, ceilings, roof, etc., then an asbestos survey is required. This requirement is state law and is mandatory regardless of a structure’s age.

15. I want to build a shed in my backyard. Is a permit required for that?

Yes, if a shed larger than 200 square feet, it requires a permit in the City of Port Arthur. However, it is recommended to check with Planning and Zoning, and the permit office, to make sure your shed does not encroach on any rights of ways or easements.

16. I want to add a room on to my house. Can I obtain a permit to do the work myself?

If you own the house and it is your primary residence (homestead), then you may obtain all necessary permits.

17. How many sets of plans are required for new construction?

Two (2) sets of plans are required for new construction.

18. What is required for a contractor to become licensed and or bonded in the City of Port Arthur?

Contractors must have a Contractors Bond and a City of Port Arthur Certificate of General Liability.

19. What is the cost for permits?

The permit cost is determined by the valuation of work for commercial structures, and is based on square footage for residential construction.

20. How long is the permit good for?

Permits are valid for six months.

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1. How do I know when to evacuate?

Listen regularly to your local radio or television stations when the threat of tropical storms or hurricanes exists. Pay close attention when such storms threaten your local area. If it appears that a storm may affect the local area, local officials may order or recommend that residents evacuate and also provide instructions about what people in those areas should do. Be ready to follow the instructions given by local officials. Because it takes time to evacuate heavily populated areas, evacuations may be recommended well before the storm makes landfall.

Evacuation Tips

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1. What grant funds are available for home repairs?

Dedicated to providing safe and decent affordable housing, the City of Port Arthur is committed to assisting low- and moderate-income families in Port Arthur. The City offers grants that serve income eligible homeowners and homebuyers. Contact Housing Assistance at (409) 983-8259 for more details.

2. What are the objectives of the Community Development Block Grant funds?

CDBG funds are used for a wide range of community development activities directed toward neighborhood revitalization, economic development and improved community facilities and services. Any project obtaining CDBG funding is required by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to meet at least one of three national objectives:

Benefit Low- and Moderate-Income Persons

Aid in the Prevention or Elimination of Slums or Blight

Meet Urgent Community Development Needs

3. What is the contact information for the Department of Housing and Urban Development?

The website is www.hud.gov

4. What grant funds are available for small businesses?

Please contact Lamar University Small Business Development Center or the Port Arthur Economic Development Center.

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1. How do I apply for the Homebuyer Program?

• First, visit a local lender to become pre-qualified for a standard, fixed-rate mortgage loan. Participating lenders are listed on the brochure that describes the Homebuyers Program. Be certain to tell the bank you would like to apply for the City’s Homebuyer Program. 
• After approval, call the Housing & Neighborhood Revitalization Division office at 409- 983-8259 to make an appointment to apply for the Homebuyer Program. We will discuss the remainder of the qualification process and answer any questions you might have.

2. Will a poor credit rating affect the mortgage application or the application for FTHB Program assistance?

The City of Port Arthur does not perform a credit check; however, to participate, you will need to be able to qualify for a standard mortgage (no sub-prime, balloon, or adjustable rate loans allowed). If you have credit problems, discuss your options with your mortgage representative. You may also contact the Consumer Credit Counseling Service.

3. Will homebuyers be required to repay the homebuyer assistance provided by The City of Port Arthur?

If you occupy the home you purchased as your principal residence for the required time period - usually five or 10 years, depending upon the amount of assistance, no repayment is required. This required time period is known as the Period of Affordability. However, if you sell your home, rent your home to another person, experience a foreclosure or fail to occupy the home as your principal residence before the end of the Period of Affordability, you could be required to repay all or part of the assistance provided you.

4. If the homebuyer is now divorced but previously owned a home with a former spouse, do they qualify as a homebuyer?

If you are a single parent who has custody of and is caring for minor children, and is divorced or legally separated from their former spouse, you could be eligible to apply for the FTHB Program.

5. How long does the process take after receiving an approval from my bank?

The home buying process requires many steps, and involves many different parties, a variety of inspections, verification, etc., and can take several weeks to complete. Once Housing & Neighborhood Revitalization receives your completed application, sends and receives back the employment and income verification, those documents are used  to determine if you qualify. After the City performs an inspection of the property, a list of repairs will be sent to your lender and to the realtors involved. Once those repairs have been completed, the home is re-inspected by the City inspector. When household income has been verified and the home passes inspection, an applicant is approved for the Homebuyer Program.

6. Where is the Annex at Cityhall?

City Hall - (The 2-Story building)

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1. What forms of payments are accepted?

Municipal Court accepts cash, cashier's check, money orders and credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover)

2. May I request an extension to pay my fines and fees?

Yes, you may request additional time to pay your fines and fees. You must appear before the judge in person on or before your scheduled court appearance date to make that request or complete a plea form and return to the clerk’s window no later than your court appearance date or by mail with a request for additional time to pay postmarked no later than your scheduled court appearance date.

3. Why am I not eligible to request the driving safety course?

Defendants with one or more of the following are ineligible for the driving safety course:
• Plea of Not Guilty
• Has a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or held a commercial driver’s license at the time of the offense
• Has an invalid Texas Driver’s License or a valid/invalid license from another state
• Has invalid proof of financial responsibility (insurance) on the date and time of the offense and the date of request
• Speeding 25 miles or more above the posted speed limit
• Speeding 95 miles per hour or more
• Cited for Failure to Stop for School Bus While Loading and Unloading
• Offense occurred in a Construction Zone when workers are present
• Failure to Stop and Render Aid in an Accident
• Leaving Scene of Accident Causing Serious Damage
• Completion of a Driving Safety Course within the last 12 months from the date of the new citation
• Currently enrolled in a Driving Safety Course for another violation or court

4. Once I complete the driving safety course what must be returned to the court?

You must return to the clerk’s window or by mail no later than the completion date:
• Original signed driving safety course completion certificate
• Original driving record history from Texas Department of Public Safety

5. How will a conviction affect me?

Criminal convictions may result in any of the following based on your circumstances:
•Loss of driver license
•Surcharges assessed by the Department of Public Safety
•Increased insurance costs or cancellation
•Loss of job
•Loss of educational opportunities
•May affect immigration status

6. If I have warrants will I be arrested when I appear in court?

You will not be arrested at the court. The City of Port Arthur Municipal Court is considered a “Safe Harbor” and no defendant will be arrested due to outstanding local (Port Arthur Municipal Court) warrants when they appear before the court.

7. What do I need to do to keep a case off my record?

Successfully complete a Driving Safety Course (if eligible).
Successfully complete a Deferred Disposition, similar to probation (if eligible).
Have case dismissed by showing appropriate proof of compliance (if eligible)
Not guilty verdict at a trial

8. Why do I have to pay court cost?

Court costs and fees are required by the State Legislature and City Council. The court is required to collect them.

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1. 1. What type of housing programs do you offer?

Emergency, minor, full rehabilitation and demolition and reconstruction assistance is provided to qualified low-moderate income homeowners who reside in their homes. New construction of homes is provided for qualified residents if the cost of rehabilitating the home is prohibitive. These services are offered as forgivable deferred payment loans to qualified homeowners. Under certain conditions, this means that as long as you reside in your home you will not have to make any payments on the loan and a percentage of the loan will be forgiven each year until the loan is paid in full and forgiven. Please contact the Housing and Neighborhood Revitalization Division at 409-983-8259 for more information.

2. 2. How do I qualify for assistance?

• Households must meet income guidelines (see #2)
• Property must be owned by client as listed in the DEED.
• Mortgage and Property Taxes must be current
• Property must be: located in Port Arthur city limits and the primary residence of the homeowner.
• Home owner’s insurance must be an amount sufficient to cover the maximum assistance available.

3. 3. What are the income limits?

Households must be classified low to moderate-income as published annually by the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) annually to be eligible for the program.  Income includes gross wages, income from assets, retirement, social security, disability, unemployment and any other resources or benefits received by household members age 18 and older.

4. 4. Do I need to have good credit to get assistance?

Applicants do not need to have good credit to apply. However, if a bankruptcy action affecting the home has been filed, if you are behind on your property taxes, or if it appears you cannot sustain your housing payment, or pay impending taxes or homeowner’s insurance, the funding may be delayed until the payments are brought current or sustainability has been established.

5. 5. Who decides what type of work needs to be done?

A complete evaluation and a scope of work will be completed on the home detailing all needed repairs.  If the costs exceed the limit offered by the Program, the homeowners may decide to give the City written permission to demolish and re-build a home on the same lot.

6. 6. Can I apply for assistance more than once?

Households may not qualify for additional funding under the same strategy even if the original loan has been satisfied.

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1. What youth programs do you offer?

The Recreation Center offers a variety of youth programs and camps to give kids of all ages the opportunity to learn and play sports, participate in games and activities and make new friends. Our youth camps, such as the Summer Recreation Program and Camp Force 3, emphasize developing healthy lifestyles while focusing on the fundamentals of recreation, competition, excitement, education and exercise.

We also offer youth basketball and volleyball leagues, karate/martial art classes as well as multiple youth fitness programs, such as our Youth Aquatics Program which offers swim lessons for a variety of skill levels.

2. What programs and services are available through Parks & Recreation?

Port Arthur has several parks/facilities with great amenities. Most of the activities we offer occur at the Recreation Center. However, a lot of the leagues and outdoor activities take place at one or more of the outdoor parks. We have a lot of parks/venues/facilities that have amenities such as playground equipment and basketball courts that are always available for use across the city.

3. What facilities have been renovated over the last year?

Pavilion – We installed benches, seating areas, plants, trees and trash receptacles all around the pavilion. Additional landscaping also added appeal.
Peoples Park – We installed a unique “sound chime”. We also included a splash pad, benches, seating areas, plants, trees and trash receptacles through the park.
Rose Hill Park – We installed a new parking lot and sidewalks, new playground equipment and upgrades to tennis court.
Griffing Park – We installed a new playground equipment and sidewalks.
Herman Park – We installed a new playground equipment and sidewalks.

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1. What is the purpose of a replat?

Replats are required when a property is already platted and you want to alter or create new lot lines, remove platted building lines, remove fire lanes or remove easements from a recorded plat. A replat must be approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission.

2. What is the purpose of zoning?

Zoning is the practice of dividing an area into districts within which regulations and requirements uniformly govern the use, placement, spacing and size of land and buildings. Zoning is most of often utilized to protect properties from incompatible adjacent land uses and to preserve the “character” of a community.

3. How do I check the zoning of a piece of property?

Call the Planning and Zoning Division at 409-983-8135 to check the zoning or use the online interactive zoning map by clicking here.

4. How do I find out what uses are allowed in each zoning district?

In order to determine what uses are allowed in each district you will need to access the City of Port Arthur’s online Code of Ordinances. On the left hand side of the page, select Appendix A: Zoning. Then click on Section 7 Use of Land and Buildings to view table. This table will show you what is allowed in each zoning district. If you have any questions, please contact the Planning and Zoning Division at 409-983-8135.

5. Does the City enforce deed restrictions?

Deed restrictions are generally private and the City of Port Arthur does not enforce private deed restrictions.

6. What if the zoning district does not allow my proposed use?

You may consider rezoning the property to a district appropriate for your proposed use, or find property that already has the appropriate zoning. Contact the Planning Division to see if the request is appropriate for the immediate area.

7. How do I change the zoning on my property?

An application for a rezoning request will need to be submitted to the Planning and Zoning Division. Complete the application and return it to staff with the required information as listed. A complete and executed application, with supporting documents, must be submitted to the Planning Department, where the information will be reviewed and included on the agenda for the City’s Planning and Zoning Commission for consideration. It will then be forwarded to City Council for consideration and action. The City Council is the final approving authority for rezoning requests.

8. What is a zoning verification letter and how do I get one?

A Zoning Verification Letter is a letter drafted by the Planning and Zoning Division confirming the zoning district for a tract of land within the City limits. Currently there is no charge for Zoning Verification Letters and may be requested by contacting the Planning and Zoning Division at 409-983-8135.

9. What are variances?

A variance is a request to appeal regulations set forth in the City’s Zoning Ordinance. Variance requests typically involve issues such as setback requirements. Variances to requirements may be considered if the applicant proves that a hardship (other than financial) exists. Variance requests are submitted to the Planning and Zoning Department and decided upon by the Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA).

10. What are the building setbacks for my property?

To determine setbacks, first find out what the zoning of the property is so that you can determine the setbacks for that property. Then you may refer to the City of Port Arthur's Code of Ordinances to look up the setbacks for that zoning designation.

11. How do I measure a setback?

Setbacks are measured from a property line to the nearest point of a building or structure using a perpendicular line to the property line. Remember to always measure from a lot line and not the back of the curb or sidewalk.

12. Who assigns a street address?

Addresses are assigned by the City of Port Arthur’s Engineering Department, 409-983-8103 for additional information.

13. May I move a mobile home or manufactured home into the City of Port Arthur?

Manufactured and/or mobile homes are required to be set within a licensed mobile/manufactured home park or any zoned district that allows such use. State inspected modular homes that meet the requirements of the International Building Code may be placed in any zoned district that allows for the use of a single family residential structure.

14. What is a Pre-Development Meeting?

Prior to the initiation of a new project, the City requires all potential applicants, developers, designers and/or contractors to schedule a pre-development meeting. These informal meetings with relevant city staff will help you plan your project and be aware of city codes or local conditions that may affect your project. The purpose of pre-development meetings is to provide a “one-stop-shop,” a means of meeting with all departments involved in the development process. These meetings are scheduled to introduce the developers to local development regulations and the officials responsible for all aspects of development. These meetings provide an opportunity for the developer to discuss their proposal with City Officials and get their input. These are required for each new development as each official responsible directly for the review of the project is in attendance.

15. Who attends the Pre-Development Meeting?

City officials, referred to as the Development Review Committee (DRC), will attend the meeting to help determine what parts of the development process apply to the applicant and in what order they need to take place. The meeting is attended by representatives of the following City departments: Planning and Zoning, Fire, Building Inspections, Utility Operations, Engineering and Environmental Health. The group meets weekly to review and discuss on-going projects.

16. How do I schedule a Pre-Development Meeting?

To schedule a meeting, please contact the Planning Division by calling 409-983-8135 or completing an application online and emailing it to the Planning Division. Please allow at least three business days in advance to schedule a meeting. These meetings are held every Wednesday afternoon at 1:30 pm, 2:30 pm, 3:00 p.m. and 3:30 pm, in the Development Services Conference Room, located at 300 4th Street, Port Arthur, TX 77640.

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1. Where is the police department located and what are the hours of operation?

The Port Arthur Police Department is located at 645 4th Street, Port Arthur, Texas 77641.

The Police Department is staffed 24-hours a day, 7-days a week; however, the records window is only open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and is closed on observed city holidays.  There is a phone located on the wall in the lobby next to the window for after-hours requests for assistance.

2. How do I file a police report?

If a crime is in progress, dial 911 immediately for officer assistance.

If you need to file a police report after a crime has been committed, you may call us on our non-emergency line at 409-983-8600 and press "0" for dispatch to have an officer meet with you at your location within the city limits.  You may also come in to the police department during normal business hours and speak to the front desk officer.  If an officer is not on-duty, you may pick up the phone located in the lobby to be directed to dispatch, who will then have an officer meet you in the lobby.

In some cases, Online Reporting can be a better and more timely option for reporting certain crimes.

Please note that Dispatch does not monitor the Port Arthur Police Department Facebook page.  Please do not use Facebook to report a crime or information relating to a crime. Please call Dispatch to speak with an Officer.

3. I received a citation from a Port Arthur Police Officer. How can I find out what my fine will be?

Please contact the Port Arthur Municipal Court at 409-983-8686.

4. I'm going on vacation. Is there a way to get an officer to check on my house while I am gone?

Yes.  You may call dispatch at 409-983-8600 and they will add a Check on Rounds for your address.

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1. How do I submit a complaint to Port Arthur Transit?

The City of Port Arthur Transit Department and the Federal Transit Administration, in compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color or national origin in programs and activities receiving Federal financial assistance. 42 U.S.C. Section2000d

Port Arthur Transit is committed to practicing non-discrimination. If you believe you have been subject to discrimination you may file a complaint with the Port Arthur Transit Title VI coordinator. For more information contact Port Arthur Transit at 409-983-8728.  

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1. Tips for Trash Pick Up

• Garbage containers must be placed curb side by 7 am on collection day and removed from the curb by 8 pm on the same day. Residents should not leave containers at the curb overnight following collection day.
• All garbage other than heavy trash items (old furniture, household furnishings, yard waste, etc.) must be placed inside your 96-gallon container for pick-up. Waste that is outside the container will not be collected, and could result in a ticket and fine.
• Items which could be reused should be donated to charity or other organizations whenever possible.
• We suggest that you don't place odor-producing garbage, such as seafood waste, meats and old foods, in your 96-gallon container before collection day. If possible, refrigerate or freeze these items, then place in the container on collection day.

2. What time does my garbage toter need to be out at the street?

Garbage toters should be placed at the street before 7 am on your designated garbage pick up day.

3. What can I do if I missed the garbage truck because my toter wasn't out in time?

Call 409-983-8511 to reschedule pick up. Circumstances will determine whether a driver can make it by the same day.

4. What if my toter was out on time and it didn't get picked up?

Many times toters cannot be emptied because there are prohibited items in the container. Please do not place wood, televisions, sheetrock, concrete, carpet or microwaves (appliances) or vegetation in the toter. 

Also, vehicles must be moved away from the toter to allow for collection. Often the garbage trucks cannot access the toter due to items obstructing access.

Note that we can only collect official City of Port Arthur toters. Others will not be picked up by City services.

5. Why is my toter lid broken?

All toters should be placed with the handle facing the residence. This allows for the proper placement of the toter for pick up by the truck.

6. Who do I call to report a street light that is out?

Citizens reporting street lights that aren't functioning properly can call Entergy at 1-800-ENTERGY (368-3749), and follow the voice prompts to make the report or go online to https://secure.entergy.com/forms/StreetLights.aspx?FormId=147&RegionId=TX. 

The City of Port Arthur maintains street lights in the following locations:

2500-3900 Memorial Blvd

Lakeshore (from Woodworth to the Department Club on Lakeshore Drive)

Dryden Place/Kramer Place

To report improperly functioning street lights in these areas call 409-983-8182.

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1. Where do I turn in a bid or proposal?

Sealed bids are due in the City Secretary's Office by 3 pm, on or before the bid opening date.

The City Secretary's office is located at:
 City Hall
 444 4th Street
 4th Floor
 Port Arthur, TX 77641

Show All Answers

1. I have a question concerning my water bill, turning my water on/off or a question about moving my water service to a new address.

Please call the Water Billing Department at (409) 983-8230.

2. I pay property taxes to the city every year. Why is water not included in this?

City of Port Arthur Water Utilities operates as an enterprise fund. This means we do not receive any tax dollar support and must operate on the revenue we generate from the water bills for water and sewer charges. The revenue generated is used to operate, maintain, expand and improve the potable water and sanitary sewer systems, as well as support other City services through the payment of franchise fees and indirect overhead payments.

3. How do I connect, transfer or disconnect my service?

If you do not currently have active service in your name with City of Port Arthur Water Utilities, we require the following documentation: 

• Picture ID (driver’s license), 
• Proof of the address you want to connect (lease or contract) 
• A copy of your social security card

Customers may come into the office* at 444 4th Street, or fill out the online application. You will be required to upload documentation when applying online. A non-refundable connection fee is due to connect water service. If applying in the office, the fee is due when you come in to request the service. If applying online, a representative from customer service will contact you (using the contact information you provide) with instructions on paying the connection fee prior to service connection. 

*Please be advised that COVID guidelines are being followed for entry and doing business with the City of Port Arthur. 

4. How soon can I get my water connected?

We can provide next business day service as long as you come in by 5 pm on that business day to connect new service or call for a transfer of service. It is required that someone be at that location when the water is turned on.

5. Why should I call to cancel my service if someone else is moving in when I am moving out?

We strongly suggest customers always call to give us a date they would like services terminated; failure to take the services out of your name will allow billing to continue. Customers are held responsible for all changes until the account is final billed.

6. Why do I see fire hydrants open and water running on the ground?

In addition to regular maintenance on the pipes, valves, hydrants and other components that make up the water distribution system, City of Port Arthur Water Utilities staff also performs regular flushing of the water distribution system in order to maintain water quality. Flushing the system cleans the water lines of sediment, clears out the water that has been sitting too long in the pipes due to infrequent use and ensures adequate water pressure in the system.

7. What is pretreatment?

The term 'pretreatment' means the treatment of wastewater by commercial and industrial facilities that removes harmful pollutants before being discharged into a sewer system under the control of a wastewater treatment plant.

8. What are the duties of a pretreatment inspector?

To protect our sewer collection system and Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) from any industry, establishment, etc. that may be discharging harmful pollutants into it. Pretreatment regulates all establishments to ensure that permits along with federal and state laws are adhered to and periodic testing of their effluent into our collection system is performed.

9. What is a grease trap/grease interceptor?

A grease trap (or interceptor) is a plumbing device designed to physically separate grease and solids from kitchen wastewater before it is introduced into our sewer collection system.

10. What is the difference between a grease trap and a grease interceptor?

Grease traps and grease interceptors are both plumbing devices for grease removal from industrial wastewater discharge streams. The grease trap is generally thought of as the smaller indoor device, usually with the holding capacity of no more than 250 gallons, and is typically installed below a sink. Grease traps are usually made of steel and often designed with just a single compartment. The grease interceptor is generally considered the large pre-cast concrete tank, typically with a liquid holding capacity of up to 5,000+ gallons and designed with two separate compartments. The sizing criteria is in accordance with the current Uniform Plumbing Code.

11. When is a grease trap/interceptor required?

A grease trap/interceptor is required for any commercial or food establishment that poses a direct or the potential danger of discharging any form of fats, oils or grease into our collection system.

12. How do I dispose of grease trap waste?

Grease trap waste must be transported to a properly permitted disposal site by a liquid waste hauler licensed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). Trip ticket manifest documentation procedures must be followed in accordance with applicable regulations. These waste manifest records must be made available for up to the past three years in which the facility has been in business.

13. Who do I talk to about pretreatment?

Contact the Pretreatment division at (409) 983-8278.