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Building & Zoning

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1. How do I obtain a permit?

Applications for permits can be submitted at the Temple Terrace Building Department,
11250 N. 56th Street ( 2nd Floor). Our friendly staff will assist you in determining the type of permit you will need for your project. Homeowners and contractors alike are encouraged to ask questions about our permitting, inspection and plan review processes. Our staff members can guide you through the process and assist in obtaining additional information that may be required to get a permit. Submittal requirements vary with the type work to be done, the location of the project, and whether it is commercial or residential in nature.

2. What are some common types of permits?

Commercial and residential construction permits are handled separately because of varying requirements. Some of the more common permits include:

Building Electrical Mechanical Plumbing
Roofing Irrigation Infrastructure Pool / Spa
Fence Fire Alarm Fire Sprinkler Special Event
Screen Enclosure Landscaping

3. When is a permit required to do work?

Anyone who desires to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or desires to do the same to electrical, mechanical, plumbing or gas systems -- the installation which is regulated by technical codes -- shall first make application to the Building Department and obtain a permit.

4. You may do the following without a permit:

1. Roof, re-roof or repair an existing roof of less than 100 square feet.
2. Apply stucco or siding involving less than 501 square feet.
3. Install fascia and soffit involving less than 101 linear feet.
4. Installation/construction or moving of any pre-manufactured accessory structure or building involving less than 151 square feet. Zoning issues may apply.
5. Construct non-structural concrete slabs or install pavers involving less than 100 square feet. All work involved in City right-of-way shall require a plan review and permit.
6. Minor non-structural work where the total for labor and material is less than $1,000, as determined by the Building Official, provided the work is not part of a larger overall operation segmented to evade normal permitting requirements.
7. Any portable heating, cooling or ventilating appliance.

5. What are the building codes the City of Temple Terrace use?

By state law we are mandated to use the latest edition of the Florida Building Code (building, residential, gas, plumbing, mechanical and existing building). The latest edition of the National Electrical Code (N.E.C.) is adopted for electrical applications by reference. The Florida Fire Prevention Code has been harmonized with the Building Code to establish unified and consistent standards.

6. Can homeowners pull building permits?

Yes, with certain criteria and restrictions being met. Homeowners are in essence acting as their own contractor and must directly supervise all work on the project. They are also responsible for the coverage of taxes and insurance on individuals working on their property. The address on the permit must be the primary residence of the owner and it cannot be for sale or lease. The homeowner is responsible for hiring licensed contractors to do the construction work, except when the homeowner is a licensed contractor or is doing the work himself. We do not encourage the issuance of homeowner permits for electrical, mechanical or plumbing systems for safety reasons. We require that homeowners hire licensed contractors for this type work.

7. Can a contractor do any type work that I need done?

A contractor can only perform work listed under the scope of his license. (e.g., a plumbing contractor cannot do electrical work; a mechanical contractor cannot construct a building).

8. With permits, who is responsible for scheduling inspections, correcting violations and paying reinspection fees?

The applicant of each individual permit is the responsible party. We discourage owners calling for inspections when a contractor has secured the permit to avoid confusion about the timing of inspections.

9. What incidental paperwork must I submit to obtain a building permit?

All submittals vary according to the type of permit you desire. In just about every case, though, a current survey will be requested of applicants, whether they are a contractor or a homeowner. In the case of homeowner applicants, proof of ownership will most likely be requested as well. Each permit application contains information that outlines what submittals are required. The office staff can assist with this when applications are made.

10. What construction documents are required to be submitted for building permits? Do they require the stamp and approval of an architect or engineer?

Construction drawings depicting the proposed work are always required. See link below for required submittals. The Florida Building Code requires that they be prepared by design professionals where required by statute. The building code does offer the building official some leverage to decide if engineered stamps are required. A general rule of thumb in the department is that if the work involves a foundation, wall or roof system, then we will ask that drawings be stamped. Plans for minor mechanical work generally are not required.

Required Submittals

11. How does the inspection process work?

You have two options for scheduling inspections, either by phone or online. A phone line (813-506-6464) is dedicated to scheduling inspections. Requests made prior to 8 am on the current business day will be scheduled for that day. Requests made after 8 am will be scheduled for the the following business day. To schedule an online inspection go to link below and follow the instructions. Permits must be posted, and access to the work is required for inspectors to conduct their inspection. Specific times are typically difficult to accomplish. If this is absolutely necessary, the permit holder can contact our office at (813) 506-6473 the morning of the scheduled inspection, and our inspectors will make every effort to accommodate the requested time.

Online Inspections

12. Do I need a permit to install a security system in my home?

Security systems generally require less than 50V to operate. For this reason, the National Electrical Code does not require the system to be guarded; thus, no permit or inspection is necessary.

13. At what stage of construction can I get an electric meter released for my project?

If a new electric meter needs to be installed on a project, the release of this meter is conducted when a final inspection is approved. Earlier releases are possible in some cases with the permission of the building official.

14. What constitutes a final inspection?

Final inspections are given when all the components of a permit are in place. Partial final inspections are not given.

15. How can I find out how much a permit costs?

Permit fee schedule.

16. When do I have to file a Notice of Commencement?

For any direct contract valued greater than $2,500 ($7,500 to repair or replace an existing heating or cooling system) a recorded NOTICE OF COMMENCEMENT is required prior to the first inspection. It is to be filed with Hillsborough County Clerk of the Court, with a copy of the recorded document provided to the building department.

17. Is a Certificate of Occupancy required for any construction project?

No, Certificates of Occupancy (C.O.) are only issued when:

1.The construction is new.
2.The occupancy classification of a building changes.
If you desire a formal certificate upon finalization of the inspection process, a Certificate of Completion can be issued upon request.

18. I have a project that is almost complete. Can I get a Certificate of Occupancy?

C.O.’s are not issued unless all permits on the project are finalized and closed out. Certificates often are requested for loan closing purposes. Until all required inspections are approved, a C.O. cannot be issued.

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Engineering

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1. Can I get a flood zone determination for an address or particular piece of property?

Yes, as part of our community service and an ongoing National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), the Engineering Department will furnish assistance in determining flood zones for specific properties within our city. To accurately determine a zone for a property, an address, folio, or lot and block number will be required.

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Fire Department

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1. Can I drop off SHARPS at the fire station for disposal?

No, SHARPS can be disposed of at the following locations:
Shriners Hospital for Children
12502 N Pine Dr.
Tampa, FL 33607
Receiving Dock
Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm

Florida Hospital
3100 E Fletcher Ave.
Tampa, FL 33613
Patient Service Center
Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm

For additional information, contact the Hillsborough County Health Department, Environmental Services, Biomedical Waste Program, at (813) 307-8059.

2. Does the fire department install free smoke detectors?

Yes, if you are a resident of Temple Terrace (supplies may be limited). Submit a smoke alarm install request and a member of our Risk Reduction Division will contact you to schedule a time to install the smoke alarms. You may contact our Risk Reduction Division for more details at 813-506-6693.

3. Does the fire department offer or install free child car seats?

No. The Fire Department does not offer car seats. If you need a car seat, please reach out to St. Joseph’s Children’s Wellness & Safety Center at (813) 615-0589 to register for a car seat. If you do have a car seat but need it installed correctly or inspected  to ensure that it meets the appropriate standards of the law,  contact (813) 443-3074 or click here for Car Seat Classes.
The Children’s Board Family Resource Centers are located throughout Hillsborough County and offer programs and services to help you obtain car seats and more. They are also connected with St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital. See their locations here.

4. Why do fire trucks go on rescue (EMS) calls?

We utilize a priority dispatch system, meaning that the type of call we receive dictates the number of Firefighters and Apparatus that respond.  Depending on the severity of the incident, some calls only warrant a Rescue (Ambulance), while others require both a Rescue and Engine. There  only are 2 Firefighter/Paramedics on each Rescue Apparatus, so if additional Firefighter/Paramedics or equipment are needed,  the Fire Truck will be dispatched to assist. Our Fire Trucks carry the same medical equipment as the Rescue Units and are staffed with certified Paramedics.

5. Who do I call for a fire inspection?

For a commercial inspection call (813) 506-6693.

For a residential rental housing inspection call (813) 506-6690.

6. How do I apply for a Knox Box for my residence?

You can submit a Knox Box application. Knox Boxes are issued on an as needed basis while supplies are available. This is a loaner program and we ask for the box back when the resident no longer needs the box. 

7. Will the Fire Department take my prescription drugs?

No. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has installed permanent drug drop-off boxes at five patrol district offices. Citizens are now able to properly dispose of unwanted, unnecessary and expired prescriptions, as well as over-the-counter medicines and veterinarian prescriptions. The drop off boxes are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. See the locations here. ** Most pharmacies, doctors’ offices, and sanitation departments will not accept prescription drugs. **

8. Does the Fire Department fill swimming pools?

No. The fire department will not remove an emergency vehicle from service to fill a swimming pool. Please contact a pool professional.

9. Does the Fire Department dispose of fire extinguishers?

No. If you need to dispose of an extinguisher,  refer to this list of  Hillsborough Hazardous Waste Drop Off Locations.

10. Does the Fire Department offer CPR classes?

Call (813) 506-6700 for more information.

11. Does the Fire Department offer blood pressure checks to the public?

Yes.

12. Can I have an open burn? Is there a burn permit?

Open burns are permitted providing they meet the proper criteria. You can submit a burn permit for approval or contact our Risk Reduction Division at 813-506-6692 for additional information.

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Footer FAQ

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1. How to make a Public Records Requests?

The City Clerk is the custodian of public records in Temple Terrace. To make a public records request, please contact the City Clerk's Office.

2. When is the Customer Service Department open?

Customer Service is open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (813) 506-6420. Customer Service is on the first floor of City Hall.

3. How do I report a city code violation?

To report a violation of city code, contact our Code Compliance Department at (813) 506-6680 or follow this link to report a code violation online. In accordance with the Sunshine Law, all complaints are public record including the person's name filing the complaint.

4. How do I obtain a city permit?

Permits are issued by our Permitting Office, second floor at City Hall, Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. (the department is closed noon to 1 p.m. daily for lunch).

5. How do I sign up for a recreation membership?

To apply for a Temple Terrace recreation membership, call (813) 506-6600 or visit the Family Recreation Complex, 6610 Whiteway Drive.  For more information, click here.

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Library

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1. How can I get a library card?

Hillsborough County residents may get a library card by providing picture ID, proof of address and a completed application. Applications are located at the circulation desk. Cards for children under 17 will require a parent or legal guardian's signature.

2. Can I fax things from the library?

Yes, we now how a self service public fax. 

3. Can I print at the library?

Yes, the first $.50 of printing, per day, is free. After that printing is $.05 per page for black & white and $.10 per page for color. 

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Multimodal Transportation District

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1. What is the Multimodal Transportation District?

The MTD is an area of the city where there is an emphasis on non-automobile oriented development and improvement strategies.

2. When was the Multimodal Transportation District established?

The city established the Temple Terrace Multimodal Transportation District in June 2009, with the adoption of the 2025 Comprehensive Plan.

3. Where is the Multimodal Transportation District?

The district encompasses the boundaries of the entire City of Temple Terrace.

4. What is the purpose of the MTD?

The purpose of the MTD is to provide a safe and attractive environment for pedestrians and bicyclists, with convenient access to enhanced transit service and secondary emphasis on auto-oriented improvements.

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Parks and Recreation

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1. Can anyone use the sports fields at the different sports complexes?

No, use of any sports field requires a permit from the Parks and Recreation Department. These permits are issued from the main recreation office at the Family Recreation Complex.

2. Do I have to live in Temple Terrace to obtain a recreation membership?

No. There are a variety of membership levels for both residents and non-residents, including reduced rates for seniors. For more information on how to join, call (813) 506-6600.

3. Does the city have facilities for rent?

Yes. The Parks & Recreation Division permits the rental of various facilities for private use, including swimming pools, meeting rooms, gymnasiums, soccer fields, baseball fields and more. For information on availability and fees, please call (813) 506-6600.

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Public Works

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1. What number do I call to pay my utility bill?

For questions regarding you bill or to pay your bill, please call (813) 506-6420. You may also pay your bill online.

2. How do I report a dead animal for removal?

The Public Works Department will remove a dead animal that is on a city road. Call (813) 506-6570 to request a removal. Public Works will NOT remove a dead animal located on private property. Public Works also will NOT remove a dead animal that is on a county or state road. To request removal from a county or state road, please call Hillsborough County at (813) 272-5900.

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Red Light Cameras

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1. What if I am not the driver of the vehicle at the time of the violation?

As the registered owner of the vehicle, you are deemed responsible for the violation and the payment the penalty unless, in compliance with Florida Statute § 316.0083(1)(d)1.a-d, you establish by a sworn affidavit that a statutory exemption applies. The exemptions are that the motor vehicle: (a) passed through the intersection in order to yield the right-of-way to an emergency vehicle or as part of a funeral procession; (b) passed through the intersection at the direction of a law enforcement officer; (c) was, at the time of the violation, in the care, custody, or control of another person; or (d) a UTC was issued by a law enforcement officer to the driver of the motor vehicle for the violation of Florida Statute § 316.074(1) and § 316.075(1)(c)1 stated in this Notice. The affidavit must be sworn before a notary public or other person authorized to administer oaths.

If you assert that the vehicle was in the care, custody, or control of another person, you must provide the name, address, date of birth, and, if known, the driver’s license number of the person who leased, rented, or otherwise had care, custody, or control of the vehicle at the time of the violation. ACCEPTANCE OF THIS ASSERTION BY THE TEMPLE TERRACE PD WILL RESULT IN THE ISSUANCE OF A UNIFORM TRAFFIC CITATION TO THE PERSON NAMED IN THE AFFIDAVIT. If the vehicle was stolen, then the affidavit must include a copy of a police report showing the vehicle to have been stolen. If you assert that a UTC was issued by a law enforcement officer for the violation of Florida Statute § 316.074(1) and 316.075(1)(c)1 stated in this notice, then you must include the serial number of the UTC. For faster processing, you may, but are not required to, include a copy of the UTC.

You may download and print the Affidavit of Non-Responsibility form from the links at the bottom of the page on www.violationinfo.com.

2. Why has the City of Temple Terrace decided to implement the Intersection Safety Program?

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, annually nearly 2 million crashes occur in intersections. In 2005, red light running resulted in 800 fatalities and over 165,000 injuries.

It is believed that an Intersection Safety Program will reduce the number of red light crashes and injuries associated with such crashes. The purpose of this program is to increase traffic safety in City of Temple Terrace. The goal of the program is to reduce red light running violations, red light crashes, and red light injury crashes without impacting town funds.

3. What exactly constitutes a red light violation?

Pursuant to Florida Statutes §§ 316.0083, 316.074(1) and 316.075(1)(c)1, it is a violation of the red light if a vehicle proceeds into an intersection equipped with a photographic traffic control monitoring system when the traffic control signal for that vehicle’s direction of travel is emitting a steady red signal. When a motorist receives a Notice of Violation, it has been determined that their vehicle has proceeded into an intersection by entering the crosswalk on the near side of an intersection when the traffic control signal, for the direction in which the vehicle was traveling, was emitting a steady red signal. Motorists already in the intersection when the signal changes to red, when waiting to turn for example, are not considered red light violators.

4. Why did I receive this Notice of Violation?

Based upon images captured by the automated system, your vehicle was determined to have failed to comply with a steady red signal. As the owner of the vehicle, the Notice of Violation is mailed to you. For every violation captured by the cameras, the images and video are reviewed and approved by the City of Temple Terrace Police Department before a Notice of Violation is issued and mailed to the vehicle’s registered owner.

5. If I am in the intersection when the light is yellow and the light changes to red, will I receive a Notice of Violation?

No. The automated camera system only becomes active once the red light is showing. It will not capture a vehicle if the vehicle enters the intersection prior to the light changing to red. If you entered the intersection on yellow, it is legal to clear the intersection if the light turned red while you were still in the intersection.

6. What happens if I ignore the Notice of Violation?

If you fail to respond, a Uniform Traffic Citation (“UTC”) will be issued to you, UNDER THIS STATUTE FOR THE STATED INFRACTION you may become responsible for court fees and costs. Upon issuance of a UTC, you shall have the remedies specified in Florida Statutes § 318.14, which include the right to have a hearing before a designated official, who shall determine whether an infraction has been committed. If the official concludes that no infraction has been committed, no costs or penalties shall be imposed. If the official concludes that an infraction has been committed, the official may impose an additional civil penalty not to exceed $500 and court fees and costs.

7. I have received a UTC, may I submit an affidavit?

Yes, you may submit an affidavit. You must download the Post UTC Affidavit from the links at the bottom of the page on www.violationinfo.com. The Post UTC Affidavit must be mailed to the Police Department. Submission of an affidavit does not guarantee a dismissal of the UTC. You may call Customer Service at 1-866-225-8875 ten (10) days after submission to check on status.

8. Will I receive any points on my driving record for this violation?

No, this is a non-criminal infraction that is not reported to the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles.

9. Will my insurance rates be affected?

No, this is a non-criminal infraction and is not reported to any insurance agencies.

10. Will the red light cameras take a picture of the driver of the vehicle?

No. A violation of Florida Statutes §§ 316.0083, 316.074(1) and 316.075(1)(c)1 is a civil violation assessed against the owner of the vehicle; it is not a criminal violation. Similar to a parking ticket, there is no need to identify the driver and therefore, no need to capture the image of the driver.

11. Is this only a revenue generating program?

This is a safety program. Automated safety systems have been shown to reduce red light violations and intersection crashes. Numerous studies throughout the U.S. and worldwide, as well as the experience of many other cities, indicate significant decreases in red light running violations and collisions after cameras were installed. Often times, a spill-over effect results from automated enforcement: other intersections not monitored by automated enforcement also see a decrease in violations and accidents because of the presence of enforcement in other areas of the community.

12. What if I was issued a citation from an officer for the same offense?

The citation issued by a police officer takes precedence over the Notice of Violation. You must submit an affidavit with the serial number of the UTC that you received for violation of Florida Statute § 316.074(1) and 316.075(1)(c)1. For faster processing of the affidavit, you can include a copy of the UTC.

13. How much time do I have to pay my Notice of Violation?

It is recommended the completed signed and notarized affidavit or payment is received 8 days prior to the due date specified on the front page of this notice to be appropriately processed or a UTC will be issued at a higher cost. If you have questions regarding payments please contact Customer Service at 1-866-225-8875.

14. What is the Refund Policy?

A refund check may be issued under the following circumstances:

Duplicate and/or overpayment of a Notice of Violation
If you feel as though you are entitled to a refund, please submit your request on the Red Light Refund Form. Send the completed form to the address specified at the top of the form.

15. I have received multiple Notices of Violation; do I have to send in a payment for each?

If you have multiple violations in one city you may send one check with the individual coupons enclosed and the notice numbers written on the check.
If you have multiple violations in different cities you must send a separate check for each violation. If you send one check for multiple violations that occurred in different cities your check will be rejected and returned to you.

16. What if my check is returned?

A Uniform Traffic Citation may be issued at an increased amount if the violation payment is returned. You will be responsible to pay this fine to the court.

17. Can I make payments in installments or set up a payment plan?

Payment plans are not available.

18. I paid the violation; why did I receive another notice?

The notice you just received could be for additional violations or it could be a UTC which is now a past due notice. If it is a past due notice, chances are that your payment and the notice crossed in the mail. It can take as many as 5 business days to show in the system once the payment is mailed. Call 1-866-225-8875 to confirm that your payment was received.

19. Do I have to pay my fine the day of the hearing?

You must pay the full fine amount within 10 days of a liable judgment.

20. What happens if I do not pay the Notice of Violation?

If you fail to respond, a Uniform Traffic Citation (“UTC”) will be issued to you, UNDER THIS STATUTE FOR THE STATED INFRACTION you may become responsible for court fees and costs. Upon issuance of a UTC, you shall have the remedies specified in Florida Statutes § 318.14, which include the right to have a hearing before a designated official, who shall determine whether an infraction has been committed. If the official concludes that no infraction has been committed, no costs or penalties shall be imposed. If the official concludes that an infraction has been committed, the official may impose an additional civil penalty not to exceed $500 and court fees and costs.

21. I do not believe I ran a red light. Where can I go to view my images and video?

You can view your images on any computer with an Internet connection. Log on to www.violationinfo.com. To log on to the site you must enter the Notice Number and the PIN Number located at the top right of your Notice of Violation.

22. How much do I have to pay for a Hearing?

A person who is found liable after a Hearing can be liable for an additional penalty, courts costs and fees not to exceed $500, in addition to the amount of the civil penalty assessed for the violation.

23. Can I schedule a hearing?

If you wish to have a hearing, do not respond to the Notice of Violation. A UTC will be issued with instructions on how to proceed for a hearing.

24. Can I make a hearing request over the phone?

No.

25. Can someone other than me attend the hearing?

Only you or your legal counsel may appear at a hearing.

26. Is there more than one place that I can attend my hearing?

No.

27. Can I bring a lawyer to the hearing with me?

Yes.

28. How do I know that these violations are valid?

Images of your vehicle were captured and recorded by a Traffic Safety Camera. You can review your images and video of the actual occurrence online. The images and video were reviewed by several qualified technicians and finally by the City of Temple Terrace Police Department before the alleged civil infraction was affirmed and mailed to you as the registered owner or identified driver.

29. How do I know that these violations are valid?

Images of your vehicle were captured and recorded by a Traffic Safety Camera. You can review your images and video of the actual occurrence online. The images and video were reviewed by several qualified technicians and finally by the City of Temple Terrace Police Department before the alleged civil infraction was affirmed and mailed to you as the registered owner or identified driver.

30. What company provides the red light camera program in City of Temple Terrace?

The City of Temple Terrace has contracted with American Traffic Solutions Inc. to provide the Intersection Safety Program. ATS will install and maintain all equipment related to this program and process all violations captured by the equipment.

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Sanitation

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1. Where can I get a recycling bin(s)?

These bins are provided free of charge to city residents. You may pick them up at the Public Works building located at 11210 North 53rd Street or call (813) 506-6570 to have them delivered to your home.

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Streets

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1. How do I report a pothole in the street, or a cracked or uneven sidewalk?

To report any problem with a street or sidewalk surface in Temple Terrace, please call the Public Works Department at (813) 506-6570.

2. Can I put up my own sign in the City's right-of-way?

No, only regulatory, advisory, and guide signs for traffic purposes are allowed in the City right-of-way.

3. How are speed limits determined between 25 and 55 mph?

Speed limits are established on a basis of traffic engineering surveys. These surveys include an analysis of roadway conditions, accident records, a sampling of the prevailing speed of traffic, amount of side traffic access, and traffic volumes.

Generally speaking, a safe and reasonable limit is set at or below the speed at which 85% of the drivers drive. Posting an appropriate speed limit simplifies the job of enforcement officers, since most of the traffic is voluntarily moving at the posted speed. Blatant speeders are easily spotted, safe drivers are not penalized, and patrol officers aren't expected to enforce unrealistic and arbitrary speed limits.

4. How can I get a speed limit sign placed on my street to slow traffic?

The most common misconception about speed limits is that putting up a sign will slow the speed of traffic, reduce accidents, and increase safety.

The truth is, most drivers drive at a speed that they consider to be comfortable and safe, regardless of the posted speed limit. The City usually installs signs at the entrance to a subdivision. Studies have shown that there are no significant changes in average vehicle speeds following the posting of new or revised speed limit signs. Furthermore, there is no direct relationship found between posted speed limits and accident frequency.

5. What is the purpose of a stop sign?

The stop sign is used to assign right-of-way at an intersection and to make sure that traffic flows smoothly and predictably.

6. Will a stop sign reduce speeding in my neighborhood?

Because a stop sign is used to assign right-of-way at an intersection, it is not an effective means to control speeding. Research shows that where stop signs are installed as deterrents or speed breakers, there are high incidences of intentional violations resulting in accidents.

7. Will increasing the use of stop signs in my neighborhood better control traffic?

As with any traffic control device, overuse of stop signs will cause many drivers to ignore them, creating a more hazardous situation, especially in low volume areas, such as residential neighborhoods.

Because a stop sign causes a substantial inconvenience to motorists, it should be used only where needed. Studies have shown that, sometimes, after installing a stop sign there is an increase in rear-end collisions. Also, the stop sign may cause such an inconvenience that traffic detours through residential streets, parking lots, etc.

A little known fact is that the stop and go traffic resulting from the placement of stop signs will increase carbon dioxide emissions, thereby further impacting the air quality in your area.

8. How can I get a stop sign on my street?

The City's Public Works Department evaluates an intersection, following State and Federal guidelines, to ensure uniformity in traffic control. The survey includes reviewing the following criteria:
• Vehicle and pedestrian volumes
• Traffic speeds
• Visibility (sight distance) at the intersection, i.e., trees, shrubbery, and curves
• Accident history

Experience has shown that improving the intersection visibility by prohibiting parking near the intersection or removing other sight distance obstructions, is often more effective in reducing traffic accidents.

9. What are the uses for multi-way and two-way stop signs?

No. We do not sell signs; please check your local phone directory or online resources for traffic sign manufacturers.

10. I would like to put up Neighborhood Watch signs, how do I do that?

Crime Watch and Neighborhood Watch signs are processed by the Temple Terrace Police Department. For more information, please call the Temple Terrace Crime Prevention Unit at (813) 506-6551.

11. Why are traffic signals needed?

As traffic volumes increase beyond the capability of lesser controls, such as a four-way stop, it may be necessary to install a traffic signal. Traffic signals offer maximum control at intersections. The primary function of any traffic signal is to assign right-of-way to conflicting movements of traffic at an intersection. This is done by permitting conflicting streams of traffic to share the same intersection by means of time separation. By alternately assigning right-of-way to various traffic movements, signals provide for the orderly movement of conflicting flows. They may interrupt extremely heavy flows to permit the crossing of minor movements that could not otherwise move safely through an intersection. When installed under conditions that justify the installation of traffic signals, they are valuable devices for improving the safety and efficiency of both pedestrians and vehicular traffic.

To install a traffic signal at an intersection, minimum criteria must be reviewed and met:

• Volume of vehicular and pedestrian traffic
• Need to provide interruption to the major flow for side street vehicles and pedestrians
• Accident history of intersection

12. How are signals timed?

Traffic signals assign the right-of-way to various traffic movements for different time intervals depending on traffic flow levels. Pre-timed signals have preset time intervals for different times of the day, including the morning, noon, and evening peak travel periods.

Traffic actuated signals use detectors located in the pavement on the approaches to traffic signals to monitor and assign the right-of-way on the basis of changing traffic demand. These signals attempt to assign most of the available green time to the heaviest traffic movements. The majority of the signals in Temple Terrace are actuated signals, using detectors.

13. Are there any disadvantages to traffic signals?

While many people realize that traffic signals can reduce the number of right angle collisions at an intersection, few realize that signals can also cause a significant increase in rear-end collisions. In addition to an increase in accident frequency, unjustified traffic signals can also cause excessive delay, disobedience of signals, and diversion of traffic to residential streets. Traffic signals are not a “cure-all” for traffic problems. The primary goal of the use of traffic signals is to attain the safest and most efficient overall traffic flow possible.

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Waste

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1. How is this message being delivered to residents?

• The program was presented with an opportunity for public comment at the September 3 City Council meeting, which was recorded and available for viewing on the City’s YouTube channel.
• A link to more information, highlighted by a waving trash can, is on the CIty’s homepage.
• An email / text / phone blast will be sent to all residents who have signed up for “Notify Me.”
• Informational flyers will be included on each cart.
• An explanation of the program and links to the explanation page on the website will be posted on social media.
• Notices will be placed on the signs at Lightfoot, the Library and the Family Rec Complex.
• The TTPD’s electronic signs with the message “Use of New Garbage Carts Begins (TBD). For info, call 813.506.6570” will be rotated throughout the City where allowed. 
• Notices will be run on the City’s cable channel.
• An brief explanation of the program and resources for more information will be available on the City’s Infoline at 813.506.6644.*
• Questions can be directed to the City’s Marketing and Communications Officer at 813.506.6404 or via email to lhayes@templeterrace.com.
• An alert about upcoming delivery of the carts will be placed in the City’s Utility bill.

*Residents can call a new phone line that connects callers to a recorded message of important City news and alerts. The message will be updated by the City’s Marketing and Communications Officer as needed. (Note that the line will not be staffed, nor will there be an option to leave a message.) Dial 813.506.6644 to hear the message.

2. Why is this change necessary?

A switch to a semi-automated trash collection system in the City of Temple Terrace is long overdue. The vast majority of communities in the Tampa Bay region and, indeed, in the country have already made the transition. The new system has been shown to save time as well as reduce the possibility of injury to the sanitation crews. In addition, the uniform look of the carts will contribute greatly to the aesthetics on City streets, even on trash days. In addition, the lids attached to the carts will close after being serviced, unlike loose lids which often end up clogging storm drains.

3. How much is this costing the City?

The cost to retrofit the residential sanitation fleet with cart tippers will cost $68,322, the expenditure for which was approved on August 4, 2020 by the City Council.  The cost of the carts is $300,000 and will be paid for using funds originally designated for a new garbage truck in the 2020-’21 City budget. These carts come with a 10 year warranty-under normal use conditions.

4. Will this result in a cost increase for residential sanitation service?

No. The switch to semi-automation will not result in an increase in fees. 

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Water and Sewer

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1. I have my own well and do not use City water for irrigation. Do I still have to follow the watering restrictions?

Yes, the watering restrictions apply for all water sources - surface and ground water, private wells and utility supplied water.