Below are some of the most commonly asked questions and their answers. If you have a question regarding city issues, please check here first before calling staff. You can also use the "Search" feature of this website to help find answers to your questions.
Q: What are the recycled materials from the batteries made into?
A: The materials collected are recycled and used to create other types of materials, including new batteries and scrap metal. Every year, more than 3 billion batteries are used and then thrown away by American households who use both single-use and rechargeable dry cell batteries. That equals 125,000 tons of batteries discarded every year.
Q: Why is it important to recycle batteries?
A: According to the EPA: "Recycling batteries keeps heavy metals out of landfills and the air. Recycling saves resources because recovered plastic and metals can be used to make new batteries."
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Q: Do I need a building permit?
A: A permit is necessary to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy or occupant content of any building or structure, OR any alteration in the electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system. This includes but is not limited to the following: Single family residence, Duplex, pool, any addition, shed, wall/fence, siding, deck, patio, dock, boatlift, boathouse, seawall, windows, re-roof, generators, gas piping, hurricane shutters, irrigation, land clearing, tree removals, sign, solar, tents and special events.
A permit is NOT required for painting, cosmetic work (counters, cabinets, flooring etc.) or landscaping (if the removal of trees are not involved.)
Q: Why do I need a permit?
A: A permit is necessary to ensure the minimum requirements are met to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare mandated by the Florida Building Code and local ordinances.
Q: What do I need to apply for a permit?
Q: Where do I apply for a permit?
A: Palm Coast City Offices - located at 160 Cypress Point Parkway, Suite B-106, Palm Coast. City Offices main phone number is (386) 986-3780.
Q: Do I need a contractor?
A: It is highly recommended you secure a licensed contractor. You may obtain your own permit as an owner/builder providing you follow the provisions outlined in Chapter 489 of the Florida Statutes.
Q: How do I get licensed in Palm Coast as a contractor?
A: Contact Local Business Tax Receipt at (386) 986-3766.
Q: How long does it take to get a permit?
A: Smaller projects (fence, wall, shed, etc.) usually take 1 - 2 weeks. A single family residence typically takes 2 weeks.
Q: How much does a permit cost?
A: The price of a permit depends on the project. Most of the smaller permits- shed, fence, re-roof, hurricane shutters etc. cost $60.00. Click on the following link for a more detailed
fee schedule.
Q: How do I know when my permit is ready?
A: The building department will notify you via email/fax/phone with a printout of a payment slip. You may also check the status of your permit anytime with our on-line permit search located
here.
Q: How long is my permit good for?
A: A permit shall be valid for 6 months from the date of issuance. Each passing inspection will extend the permit an additional 6 months. Should a permit expire due to the lack of progress (measured by a passing inspection), a new permit must be obtained before proceeding with the work.
Q: How close can I build to my property line?
A: Each zoning district dictates the regulations for each property. Contact the community development to find out your zoning districtat (386) 986-3736. Go to the
zoning pamphlets to find out specific information once you have determined zoning district.
Q: What building codes does the City of Palm Coast enforce?
A: We enforce the Florida Building Code.
Q: What inspections do I need?
A: The required inspection will be determined at the plan review and will be customized for each project. All required inspections will print on the placard that is placed at the jobsite.
Q: What do I need for an inspection?
A: The approved plans and documents are required to be at the jobsite. The permit placard must be placed at the jobsite along with a certified copy of the notice of commencement.
Q: How do I schedule an inspection?
A: The building departments automated inspection system is available by phone (386-986-4747) from 4:00 a.m. - 11:59 p.m. Inspections requested by 6:00 a.m. are done the same day. The automated number is printed on your job placard as well as the building permit. You will be required to enter the permit number and confirmation number (located on the permit printout only) and the inspection type code (listed on the placard). A permit clerk will be happy to walk you through the process should you have any questions.
Q: What do I need to get a certificate of occupancy?
A: All inspections listed on the permit placard must be finaled. An approved termite certificate must be submitted.
Q: How do I find out about regulations/information regarding flood zones?
A: Contact the flood plain manager at (386) 986-3736.
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Q: I'm looking for a Document (or Record). How do I go about obtaining it?
A: The first place to look is our
Online Records Search application where you will be able to search, view, save and print public records. If you are unsuccessful in finding a record you can request the records from the City Clerk's Office by stopping by City Offices located at 160 Cypress Point Parkway, Suite B-106, Palm Coast, calling (386) 986-3713, or
emailing the City Clerk.
Q: How much does it cost to obtain a record?
A: There is no charge for downloading records from the City website, or if your request for information can be sent to you via email and takes less than 20 minutes to prepare. For requests that require printed paper copies, 19 pages or less are free. For documents 20 pages or more, there is a 15¢ fee per page. For large format plans and maps (36" x 48") there is a $5.00 fee per plan/map, since they must be sent out to a commercial printer.
Q: Do I need to give you personal information to obtain records?
A: No. By law, we can not require that you give us your name, phone number, address or any other personal information when requesting a record. Also, we will not ask why you need or want a record. There may be situations when it will take time for City Employees to gather the information you requested. If you do not wish to give any personal information, in these circumstances you can simply contact City Offices either by phone or in person to see if your request has been completed.
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Q: What is the code in regards to Home Care?
A: (Palm Coast Code Chapter 35) Broken or missing building components, such as windows, walks, siding, or roofing materials, must be replaced within 60 days, as must broken fencing, screening or decorative elements. Loud and raucous noise is prohibited, especially between the hours of 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM.
Q: What is the code in regards to Public Nuisances?
A: Public Nuisances are defined as excessive accumulation or untended growth of weeds, undergrowth or other dead or living plant life; stagnant water; rubbish, debris, or trash including household furnishings; all other objectionable, unsightly or unsanitary matter along with infestations by rodents, wildlife or insects. Also included in this Ord. are a number of any physical or unsanitary condition(s) which endanger health or safety of human life. Such conditions are referred to as "life/safety" issues and are defined as "public nuisances." Examples of these issues are: fire hazards; unsound (unsafe) structures; abandoned wells, basements or shafts; abandoned appliances or junk motor vehicles; and pollution of air, food or drink. If the owner(s) of property where these public nuisances exist does not eliminate the detrimental conditions, the City of Palm Coast may abate or remove the conditions and charge the owner for the costs to do so.
Q: What is the code in regards to Trash?
A: (Palm Coast Code Chapter 41) A contractor picks up garbage and trash twice a week, and yard waste and recyclables once a week in residential neighborhoods. Pickup days vary with the neighborhood. Currently, this service is provided by Waste Pro for a fee billed directly to the homeowner. Garbage and trash are not separated. Recycling is encouraged, but not required. Green recycling bins can be obtained by calling the City of Palm Coast's Customer Service at 386-986-2360. Old tires, batteries and paint can be discarded at the landfill on Old Kings Rd. south of S.R. 100. Cans, bottles (both glass and plastic) and paper to be recycled do not have to be sorted, including newspaper, glossy print, magazines and phone books. Yard waste must be bagged, bundled, or in a container, and each such item must weigh less than 50 lbs., and be less than five feet long. Bulky trash, such as furniture or appliances, is picked up free by appointment (call Customer Service at 386-986-2360). Waste containers shall be placed at streetside by 6:00 AM on the morning of pick-up, but not before 7:00 PM of the day preceding the scheduled day of collection, and shall be removed by midnight of the day of collection. Except when placed for collection, waste containers must be screened from public view. No littering or debris disposal is allowed on private or public property.
Q: What is the code in regards to Trash, Litter & Debris on Construction Sites?
A: (Palm Coast Code Chapter 41) Trash, litter, and debris on construction sites must be contained.
Q: What is the code in regards to Parking?
A: (Palm Coast Code Chapter 44) Parking on the street or lawn is prohibited. Parking in the swales is prohibited between 1:00 AM and 6:00 AM. Only licensed Passenger vehicles, which include trucks up to one ton gross vehicle weight capacity, may be parked in residential zones, and must be parked overnight in garages, carports, or driveways. Commercial vehicles, which include semi-tractors, step-vans, trailers, wreckers, or trucks rated greater than one ton gross vehicle weight capacity, may not be parked in a residential zone except when providing service to the residence. Recreational vehicles, such as motor homes, travel trailers, campers, boats, and boat trailers, may only be parked in a residential zone with two exceptions. First, resident-owned recreational vehicles may be parked in a residential driveway for no more than 72 hours in any seven day period for the purpose of repair, maintenance, or preparation for use. Second, a recreational vehicle owned by a guest of the resident may be parked temporarily (not to exceed seven days) in the resident's driveway, but shall not be used for overnight lodging. Trailers are prohibited unless at the residence for a service call. For offsite storage of recreational vehicles, see the Yellow Pages under "Boat Storage" or "Recreational Vehicle Storage". No vehicles of any kind may be parked overnight on undeveloped private property.
Q: What is the code in regards to Garage Sales?
A: (Palm Coast Code Chapter 16, Article V) Up to two garage sales per year may be held at the same location, and up to four families may join in a garage sale. Sale hours are restricted to between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM. All offsite signs are prohibited. Garage sales are effectively advertised in local publications.
Q: What is the code in regards to Signs?
A: (See Ord. 2000-16) All signs are regulated by the Land Development Code as adopted by the referenced Ordinance. However, some signs are exempt. Sign regulations are determined by the type of land use (zoning) at the site or location of the sign. Signs must be permitted; exempt signs do not require permits. Some types of signage are considered to be temporary, but still require permits. Outside banners, streamers, pennants, balloons or other moving objects shall only be allowed as temporary sign in conjunction with a grand opening of a new business. Real estate, construction, political campaign, portable and non-conforming signs are regulated. There are extensive regulations concerning size, type, location, maintenance and removal of signs. Code Enforcement is empowered to remove any prohibited signs placed on public property or rights-of-way. Strict time limits are enforced to remove unsafe or temporary signs. The City of Palm Coast may either remove the signs at the sign owner's expense or refer the violation to the Code Enforcement Board for possible fines. Unpaid costs to remove signs or unpaid fines can be assessed by liens on the property and foreclosed under provisions of State Statutes.
Q: What is the code in regards to Irrigation?
A: View the irrigation tips located in the Palm Coast Paradise section by
clicking here.
Q: What is the code in regards to Swimming Pools?
A: (Palm Coast Code Chapter 15) Swimming pools require a permit prior to construction or installation that ensures compliance with all codes that enhance the health, safety and welfare of residents, especially children. A swimming pool is defined as any pool more than 18 inches deep or with a surface area greater than 100 sq. ft.
Q: What is the code in regards to Storage?
A: (Palm Coast Code Chapter 44) Portable temporary moving or storage structures (also known as MODS or PODS) may be parked temporarily (not to exceed seven days) in the resident's driveway, but only one unit shall be used once in a calendar year for a location. The MODS/PODS rental company provides for longer storage periods at their business. For offsite storage of recreational vehicles, see the Yellow Pages under "Boat Storage" or "Recreational Vehicle Storage". No vehicles of any kind may be parked overnight on undeveloped private property. Permanent outdoor storage structures must be permitted.
Q: What is the code in regards to Occupational Licenses?
A: (Palm Coast Code Chapter 16, Article II) No person shall engage in or manage any business, occupation or profession for which there is an occupational license tax required by the City unless that person procures a license from the City to conduct the business. Additional information may be obtained on the City website or by calling 386-986-3766.
Q: What is the code in regards to Pets?
A: (Palm Coast Code Chapter 8). Dogs and cats must be licensed and vaccinated for rabies and other diseases yearly. Dogs are not allowed to run at large, and must be leashed when in public or residential areas. Dogs in the open bed of a pickup truck must be confined or leashed with at least two tethers. Owners are responsible for picking up waste created by their dogs on public or private property. All questions regarding animal care and control issues such as: stray, injured or dangerous animals should call the City of Palm Coast’s Animal Control Department at 386-986-2520. All calls concerning pet adoption and pet care should be directed to the Flagler Humane Society at 386-445-1814.
Q: What complaints should be referred to the Flagler County Sheriff's Department (437-4116)?
A: - Loud & raucous noise between the hours of 10 pm and 7 am.
- Construction crews working before 7 am and after 6 pm.
- Parking vehicles in swale or on street.
- Parking vehicles on undeveloped vacant lots
Q: What complaints should be referred to Palm Coast Animal Control (986-2520)?
A: - Animal cruelty or abandonment
- Loose or unattended animals
- Long and continuous barking dogs
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Q: What items require Planning and Land Development Approval?
A: All of the following:
- Subdivision Master Plans: A master plan to subdivide land for greater than 100 residential units (lots).
- Tier 2 Projects: Nonresidential projects over 40,000 square feet of building up to 100,000 square feet of building and/or residential projects over 41 residential units not to exceed 100 units. Tier 2 Projects include master plans and site plans.
- Variance: A variance may be authorized ONLY for height, area, and size of structures or size of yards and open spaces. (i.e. - setbacks, lot coverage, signs exceeding maximum size allowed). The establishment or expansion of a use otherwise prohibited shall not be allowed by variance, nor shall a variance be granted because of the presence of nonconformities in the district or uses in an adjoining district.
- Special Exception: A land use that is not similar in nature to the uses permitted in the district for which the application is made, but is desired in the community with appropriate controls. In Chapter 2 of the Land Development Code Use Tables (3-2 and 3-4) show which uses require a special exception within certain zoning districts.
- Special Exception For A Home Occupation: Certain zoning districts allow the home to be an office for a business, but are only allowed by a special exception. A home occupation is any business conducted entirely within a dwelling (other than the work done offsite) and carried on by residents thereof.
- Click here for a documents and forms
Q: What items require Planning and Land Development Approval and City Council Approval?
A:
- Rezoning: To change the regulations and land uses that have been established.
- Rezoning to a MPD (Master Planned Development): The development of land under unified control that is planned and developed as a whole in a single or programmed series of operations with uses and structures substantially related to the character of the entire development.
- Final Plats: Subdivision of land.
- Tier 3 Projects: Nonresidential projects over 100,000 square feet of building and/or residential projects over 100 residential units. Tier 3 projects include master plans and site plans.
- Special Use: Includes utilities, transportation terminals and facilities.
- Binding Lot agreement: The combination of two (2) or more adjoining subdivided lots or portions of subdivided lots. No more than four (4) lots may be bound together by this process. This does not require any board approval.
- It is strongly advised to contact the Flagler County Property Appraiser's office at 386-437-7450 for inquiries on how this may affect property taxes and homestead exemption.
- Binding Lot Rescission: The rescission of an existing binding lot agreement. This process requires City Council approval.
- Click here to view the documents and forms
Q: How do I get a project reviewed by Development Services?
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Q: If I have a fire or another type of emergency should I call the fire department?
A: The answer is NO, the fire department does not dispatch emergency vehicles. All dispatching is done through the Sheriff's Office and in an emergency 911 should be contacted immediately.
Q: My smoke detector is "chirping", is there a fire? Should I call the fire department?
A: A "chirping" smoke detector in the home usually indicates the need to change the battery and/or blow or vacuum out dust particles that often trip the detectors. If there is a fire the smoke detector makes a piercing alarm.
Q: My fire extinguishers need to be filled, should I bring them to the fire department?
A: The Fire Department does not fill fire extinguishers. We will accept the expired extinguishers and properly dispose of them. In most cases a fire extinguisher purchased for home use is not worth the cost involved in refilling; suggestion is to purchase new unit. By turning the extinguisher over 2-3 times a month you will extend the life of the unit considerably. There are no local agents to service an extinguisher however, there are several companies listed in the Ormond Beach/Daytona area. Check the yellow pages under Fire Safety.
Q: Should I bring my hazardous material to the fire department for disposal?
A: The Fire Department does not have the means to accept old gas, oil, paint, and other hazardous materials. Contact the County Landfill (517-2075) for information on the proper disposal of these materials.
Q: The fire hydrant on my street needs repair, should I call the fire department?
A: The Fire Department is not the responsible party for the condition of the fire hydrants located throughout the City. The Palm Coast Utility Department is responsible for the condition of the fire hydrants located throughout the City. Should you have any questions relative to hydrant maintenance, please call Utility Customer Service at (386) 986-2360.
Q: How do I get a burn permit?
A: The Fire Department does not issue burn permits. The Department of Forestry has total jurisdiction over burning permits and procedures. You may contact them at (386) 446-6786.
Q: I smell smoke, what should I do?
A: A smell of smoke in the air is usually the result of a prescribed burn and the winds carrying the smoke to other areas of the City. If you actually see flames, or a column of smoke or see ash, please call 911 immediately. If the smoke is dense enough to be considered a health threat or nuisance, please contact the Dept. of Forestry (446-6786) and make them aware of the problem. In most instances the burn will be shut down.
Q: I received a call from the fire department asking for a donation, what should I do?
A: The City of Palm Coast Fire Department does not solicit funds from our residents. The Palm Coast Volunteer Fire/Rescue organization does conduct fund raising drives at 2-3 year intervals. This fund raising solicitation is done only by mail and is publicized two weeks prior to the actual mailing of the solicitation letters. WE DO NOT DO TELEPHONE SOLICITATIONS under any circumstances. If you have a question regarding alleged fund raising activities we will be pleased to speak with you and verify whether or not the solicitation is a legitimate organization to the best of our knowledge. However, we would like you to know that in most cases the Flagler County organizations receive little, if any, of the funds collected.
Q: Where can I get my blood pressure checked?
A: The Fire Department does offer free blood pressure checks at any of our locations. Please be aware that due to the nature of emergency calls, there may not always be personnel available to perform this function. The stations are staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, however, if an emergency call is received all personnel respond and you may encounter an "empty" station. We request your cooperation in adhering to our time frames of 9:00 AM until 12:00 PM, and 1:00 PM until 5:00 PM. If you find that you have an emergent need to seek the advice of the Fire Department there is an Emergency Bell just outside of the front door for after hours.
Q: I received a bill for using the ambulance service and I have a question about the bill, should I call the fire department?
A: The Ambulance units that are housed in the fire stations are under the jurisdiction of Flagler County Emergency Operations Center. If you have received a bill for emergency transport, please contact Flagler County EOC, (386) 313-4200, EMS Division. The Fire Department does not bill residents for any services rendered.
Q: Can I get my CPR or First Aid training at the fire department?
A: Yes. CPR and Basic First Aid classes are being offered by the City Of Palm Coast Fire/Rescue Department to the general public.
Click here for additional information.
Q: Can the fire department come fill or drain my swimming pool?
A: The Fire Department does not fill or drain swimming pools.
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Q: Why is it important not to have obstructions around fire hydrants?
A: 
When responding to a fire situation, our fire apparatus carry a limited supply of water. We rely on strategically located fire hydrants to supply us with the water we need to help with extinguishing a fire. To do our job more efficiently, we must be able to locate these fire hydrants quickly. Therefore, they must be clearly visible to us and unobstructed by vehicles, fences, or vegetation. The laws in our jurisdiction recognize this and address the issue.
Q: Can I paint the fire hydrant in front of my house?
A: The short answer, no. The long answer, no. Fire hydrants are painted blue with white tops by the city so as to be easily seen, and readily recognized by the fire department as being active.
Q: Why does the Utility department keep telling me to move my fence or bushes around fire hydrant?
A: Once a year, the Utility department does fire hydrant maintenance, clearing the hydrants of brush, and inspecting all the hydrants for code compliance. The City of Palm Coast Public Works/Utility Department has Fire Codes that require that all hydrants be clear of obstacles inhibiting their use, and that they remain visible for a distance of 50' on approach from the roadway, regardless of direction of travel. Basically, the hydrant;
- must not have anything higher than ground cover placed between it and the road,
- nothing higher than 6"of ground cover within three to five feet of the hydrant,
- Clearance around fire hydrants must have 4ft behind 7.5 ft. on both sides of hydrant and 7.5 ft. in front and nothing blocking the hydrant from view: the hydrant must be visible to vehicle traffic for a minimum distance of fifty feet in either direction.
If you receive a notice that you have a fence, plant or other obstructing item, you must take corrective action. If sufficient access in not provided we will make the necessary adjustment around the fire hydrant. If you are not sure of what actions need to be taken, contact the Public Works/Utility Department.
Q: The fire hydrant in front of my house is ugly and I want to hide it, can I?
A: The short answer, no. Based upon the Florida fire prevention code NFPA1, hiding a hydrant could be considered a violation. Simply putting up some kind of natural (plant) or artificial (fence) screening between your residence and the hydrant may be OK, as long as it maintains an adequate working radius around the hydrant, and does not block its view from the roadway and approaches. If you wish to do some landscaping, wall building, or fence construction near a hydrant, please contact the Public Works/Utility Department first to see if it meets the proper clearance required. This could avert additional costs and concerns.
Q: What can I do as a resident of Palm Coast to help?
A: You can help yourself, your neighbors, and your local firefighters by simply keeping an eye on the hydrant, trimming back/down any growth nearby, notifying the water department of any damage or maintenance issues, and ensuring that adequate clearances and proper visibility are maintained. If a hydrant cannot be found, it cannot be used. Please help us make them easy to find.
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Q: I need the phone number for a local agency, where can I get it?
A: You may find it listed on our most requested phone number section on the
homepage. Otherwise, please check the phone book, you will find a complete listing of government agencies in the first few pages of the Flagler County Chamber of Commerce Phone Book.
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Q: Where are you located?
A:
- Recreation & Parks Main Office is located off of Club House Drive. Our physical address is 305 Palm Coast Parkway NE. For directions, please call us at (386) 986-2323.
- Frieda Zamba Swimming Pool is located off of Belle Terre Parkway between Buddy Taylor Middle School and Wadsworth Elementary. Our physical address is 339 Parkview Drive. For directions, please call us at (386) 986-4741.
Q: What type of programs do you offer?
A: Parks and Recreation offers programs for all ages. Please visit our activities page for additional information on our current programs. You can visit our activities page by
clicking here.
Q: Do you take facility reservations over the phone?
A: No, you will need to come by the Palm Coast Community Center to reserve any of the facilities or parks. For more information call 986-2323.
Q: How can I be notified of upcoming programs?
A: It's very easy! The City of Palm Coast has an info alert system that allows our citizens to register to receive alerts regarding various different things. You can easily register your e-mail address, phone number or fax number and receive updates on all of our upcoming programs/events. To register, please
click here.
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Q: Is garbage collected by City employees?
A: No; garbage is collected by Waste Pro of Florida.
Q: What important telephone numbers do I need to know?
A: City of Palm Coast Customer Service - 386-986-2360.
Q: What do I have to do in order to establish Solid Waste service?
A: Once you have set up your account with the Utility Department, there is nothing more you need to do. You will be registered as a customer and your bill for Solid Waste removal will be included on your Utility bill.
NOTE: Residents living in the Palm Coast Plantation Subdivision and residents living east of the Intracoastal Waterway will receive a monthly bill directly from Waste Pro of Florida instead of paying for Solid Waste services to the City.
Q: What are my collection days?
A: Collection days can be found on the City's website,
here. You can also call Customer Service at 386-986-2360.
Q: What are the hours of collection?
A: Waste Pro of Florida can begin their collection routes as early as 6:00am and they have until 6:00pm to make their pick ups.
NOTE: You may place trash curbside after 6:00pm the evening prior to your collection day.
Q: Does the City provide garbage cans?
A: No; residents must provide their own garbage cans. Waste Pro of Florida will empty two cans on each pick up day. Garbage cans should not exceed 35 gallons in size.
Q: How do you dispose of paint and other household materials such as oil and gasoline?
A: Household hazardous materials can be taken to the Flagler County Hazardous Materials Landfill on Old Kings Road, approximately 1.5 miles south of SR 100. They can be reached at 386-517-2075.
Q: Is there a landfill in Palm Coast where I can take construction material?
A: No; Flagler County citizens can bring construction debris to the Volusia County Landfill on Tomoka Farms Road, Daytona Beach, 386-947-2952.
Q: Are there days when bulk items are collected?
A: Yes; bulk items are collected on the second garbage collection day of the week (not counting the yard waste collection day) and can include items such as a sofa, table, chairs, etc.
Q: What should I do with yard waste?
A: Yard waste is picked up on Wednesdays throughout the city. Yard waste must be contained (bagged, boxed, or bundled and tied). It must not exceed four feet in length, two feet in width, six inches in diameter and 60 lbs. in weight and it must not include any form of matter or debris resulting from tree removal, land clearing or land development.
Tip: When hiring a contractor to trim/maintain foliage, have the contractor put in writing that he is responsible for the proper disposal of the yard waste. Many times yard waste is left curbside by a contractor, and because it is not properly contained, the homeowner is forced to pay a fee to Waste Pro of Florida for a special yard waste pick up.
Q: How do I dispose of batteries?
A: Household batteries (alkaline batteries – AAA – D) can be put in the regular house hold trash. Car/boat batteries need to be taken to the Flagler County Hazardous Materials Landfill on Old Kings Road, approximately 1.5 miles south of SR 100. They can be reached at 386-517-2075.
Q: How do I dispose of appliances?
A: Appliances will be collected on Saturdays throughout the City. You must first call Customer Service at 386-986-2360 to provide the address. NOTE: Doors on appliances need to be secured when put at the curb.
Q: What do I do with my Christmas tree when I am done with it?
A: Christmas trees can be placed curbside on any Wednesday for the yard waste pick up.
Q: My neighbors are tossing garbage into construction dumpsters on our street. Is this legal?
A: Tossing any household items in dumpsters on construction sites is against the law. Please refrain from putting anything into these dumpsters and utilize your own solid waste service.
Q: What happens to the pick up schedule during holidays?
A: The only holidays in which Waste Pro of Florida suspends removal services are Thanksgiving and Christmas. If your collection day falls on Thanksgiving or Christmas day, please call Customer Service at 386-986-2360 for your rescheduled collection day.
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Q: How do I become a vendor with the City?
A: A vendor registration form can be
downloaded here from the city's website, or you can register online
here. The form can then be faxed to Brian Rothwell at (386) 986-3724.
Q: How do I find out about available bids?
A: All bids are posted
here on the city's.
Q: How do I find out about bid results?
Q: How can I find out when bids are available?
A: To receive information about current bids, please sign up on the City of Palm Coast
Infoalert system.
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Q: How do I use the OnBase Application to search public records?
A: To find out about using the OnBase Application to search records visit
this section of the website.
Q: Why can't I find the record I am looking for?
A: The City of Palm Coast is still in the process of getting our records into OnBase. During this process it is possible that the specific record you are looking for is not yet in the system. It is also possible that the record you're looking for contains sensitive information that needs to be redacted (hidden from view) before being released to the public (such as social security numbers). For more information on searching the OnBase Application visit
this section of our website. For more information on obtaining documents not in the OnBase application, visit the City Clerk FAQ.
Q: I keep getting prompted to install ActiveX controls and am not able to view records. How do I fix this?
A: The OnBase Application uses technology known as ActiveX that requires controllers specific to the OnBase application to be installed on your computer. At times, when your browser attempts to do this manually, you may receive an error and won't be able to view any records. To fix this you can download and manually install the necessary ActiveX controls from our website. Simply go to
this page to download the zip file that contains the ActiveX installer application.
Q: I'm trying to login to the OnBase application, but nothing happens. What's going on?
A: The problem you are having may be caused by the internet browser you are using. The OnBase application works best with Microsoft© Internet Explorer. You may want to make sure you are using Internet Explorer to access the OnBase application, and that you're using the latest version. The most recent version of Microsoft© Internet Explorer can be found
here.
Q: When I try to open a document it does not atuomatically open. Instead I am asked if I want to save the file. Why?
A: It could be that you do not have the proper software to view the file. Files in the OnBase application are kept in the same format they were in when they were brought into the system. So if a document was brought into OnBase as a Microsoft Word document or Adobe Acrobat PDF file you will need those viewers to be able to see those files. Both the Word and the PDF viewers are free. The Microsoft© Word viewer can be downloaded
here. The Adobe© Acrobat Reader can be downloaded
here. It is recommended that you use the latest version of Acrobat Reader for best results.
Q: When I try to open a document a yellow bar at the top of the browser tells me the file was blocked from being downloaded. Why?
A: This is a security feature of Microsoft© Internet Explorer. Simply click on the yellow bar and choose to download the file.
Q: Why can't I log into the OnBase Application?
A: Due to licensing restrictions only 10 users can be in the OnBase Application at a time. Most likely this is the reason you cannot login. You can periodically try logging in again and once a login becomes available you will have access to the application.
Q: The OnBase Application logged me off while I was looking at a document. Why?
A: Because we can only allow a limited number of people into the application at a time, it is important that we keep as many logins available as possible. To do this, users logged into the application are logged out after 10 minutes of inactivity. Reading or browsing an open record is considered being inactive and you will be logged out of the system if that's all you do for more than 10 minutes. We suggest that if you have a record that you would like to take your time with, that you save that record to your computer or print it off. For more information on saving or printing records, refer to the instructions located
here.
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Q: What are my collection days?
A: Collection days can be found on the City's website,
here. You can also call Customer Service at 386-986-2360.
Q: What are the hours of collection?
A: Waste Pro of Florida can begin their collection routes as early as 6:00am and they have until 6:00pm to make their pick ups.
NOTE: You may place trash curbside after 6:00pm the evening prior to your collection day.
Q: Do we recycle in Palm Coast?
A: Yes; the City recycles plastics (with the #'s 1 – 7 imprinted on them), glass bottles, aluminum/tin cans, newspapers, magazines, phone books, writing paper, and cardboard.
Note: Cardboard must be flattened and must be no larger than 3' x 3' sections. Packing paper from moving boxes is not considered to be a recyclable and should be thrown away as household trash.
Q: Does the City provide recycling bins?
A: Yes; the City provides one recycling bin, at no cost. It can be obtained by calling Customer Service at 386-986-2360, or filling out the
online form.
Q: What happens to the recyclable items after Waste Pro picks them up?
A: Recyclable materials are currently being sent to two locations - GEL Corp at the Volusia County Landfill and Waste Pro's MRF (Materials Recovery Facility) in Putnam County. Waste Pro collects recyclables in a two-sort process. One department is responsible for newspapers and cardboard and the other department is responsible for plastics, glass, and both aluminum and tin cans. After being separated, all recycled materials are sent to the best available markets for re-use.
Q: What happens to the pick up schedule during holidays?
A: The only holidays in which Waste Pro of Florida suspends removal services are Thanksgiving and Christmas. If your collection day falls on Thanksgiving, Christmas day, or New Years Day, please call Customer Service at 386-986-2360 for your rescheduled collection day. Recycling of Christmas Trees and electronics is offered each year in January.
Q: Where can we recycle batteries?
A: All household hazardous wastes (batteries, paint, chemicals, etc.) are still being received at the old County Landfill on Old Kings Road, south of State Road 100.
Q: Where can we recycle household hazardous waste (batteries, fluids, etc.)?
A: The Flagler County Solid Waste Facility at 1700 South Old Kings Road receives the following items from
Households Only, at no charge:
- All Rechargeable Batteries: Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH); Lithium Ion (Li-Ion); Button Batteries; Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cad); Lead Acid, both sealed and unsealed.
- All Automotive Waste Fluids: New and used lubricants; coolants/anti-freeze; brake fluid; cleaning chemicals; gasoline, additives and filters; motor oil and transmission fluid and filters; windshield washer fluid.
- All Boating & Marine Supplies: 2 Stroke oil; lubricants, oil, hull cleaners and
fuel filters; emergency flares.
- All Mercury-Containing Devices: Fluorescent tubes and compact fluorescent bulbs; HID bulbs; thermostats, thermometers and switches.
- General Household Items: Plastic bottles (bleach, soda, etc.), metals cans (soda, beer); newspaper; office paper; magazines; cardboard; oil base and latex paints and stains; solvents, thinners, strippers, cleaners; aerosol containers; pool maintenance chemicals; all types of acid and alkali material; epoxies and their catalyst components; adhesives, roofing tar and petroleum-based caulking.
- Electronic Waste: Computer towers; laptop computers; keyboards, zip and external hard drives; flat screen monitors, scanners, printers, battery back up units; speakers, cables and related accessories; A/V equipment including amps, receivers, DVD, VCR, cassette and reel to reel tape players, turntables & related electrical hardware; power tools (plug-in and rechargeable); batter packs and chargers; communication devices (hand held & ham radios, pagers, cell phones, cordless & wired phones); rechargeable appliances (dust-busters, shavers, flashlights, small toys, fans); digital cameras, recorders, GPS units and related hardware; remote controls; electrical motors up to 3 HP; microwave ovens; all circuit boards.
The Flagler County Solid Waste Facility is Not accepting: television sets or monitors; medical and pharmaceutical waste, asbestos, ammunition or gunpowder; any waste from a business.
For additional information, contact the facility at 386-517-2075 or email at
lwilliamson@flaglercounty.org.
Q: Where can we recycle television sets, computers or electronics?
A: Aside from the electronic waste listed above which is accepted at the Flagler County Recycling & Household Hazardous Waste Facility, contact either Recycling E-Scrap, 1429 West 16th Street, Unit #3, Jacksonville, FL. 32209; 904-355-7737; email:
jscrap@bellsouth.net; website:
www.scrapcomputers.com. Or Great Lakes Electronics – Almet Recycle, 407 Flomich St., Holly Hill, FL. 32117; 386-673-1281, 1-888-392-7831; Email:
Dtodd@recycleelectronics.com; website:
www.almetrecyclesurplus.com.
Q: Are there any alternate disposal sites close to Palm Coast?
A: Contact: Tomoka Farms Landfill, 1990 Tomoka Farms Road, Daytona Beach, FL. 386-947-2952 or Flagler Construction & Demolition, 2190 County Road 13, Bunnell, FL., 386-437-0960.
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Q: Why does the CANAL have all kinds of weeds growing from them?
A: Vegetation is allowed within the system to help reduce the pollutants that are in the stormwater runoff from reaching the downstream waterway. This vegetation also stabilizes the banks and provides habitat for wildlife which in turn provides for a healthy environment. The best stormwater system is a natural one which requires less maintenance. There will always be a need for maintenance and as the area grows the level of maintenance will increase.
Q: What is a stormwater DITCH and why does it have all this weed growth in it?
A: Ditches are either man-made or natural areas shaped to allow water to be quickly absorbed into the ground or to allow the water to flow to other waterways. As in a shallow ditch, a ditch promotes water absorption through soils, hold water during and immediately after a storm, and hey are open systems, flowing into other water bodies. Because these systems were designed to mimic natural processes, individuals may have stormwater systems on or near their property without realizing it. What appears to be a natural indentation in the back yard may have been designed as a stormwater ditch. What looks like a wild patch of shrubbery may be an important vegetative buffer around a ditch.
Q: Why is the house next door or in the back of me allowed to be higher than mine? What is going to stop them from draining on to my property?
A: The finished floor elevation of houses in Palm Coast are required to be at least 12 inches above the crown of the road and are typically 16 or 18 inches above. The elevation is determined by the street in front of the house, not neighboring houses. Positive fall toward the front of a property will cause stormwater that falls on that property to drain to the front. All lot grading plans must show positive fall from the rear to the front of the property. There is a final survey that is reviewed prior to a certificate of occupancy being issued by the City. This review must show positive fall toward the front.
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Q: What is the normal amount of time that water should retain in my swale?
A: Water can remain in a swale up to 72 hours after a storm, however, it may remain longer during heavy periods of rain.
Q: My swale gets extremely full during heavy rains. Is this normal?
A: Yes, the swale system was specifically designed to hold water. This prevents roadways and homes from flooding.
Q: How often are swales normally cleaned?
A: Swales are normally "maintained" every six (6) months. As long as water is flowing or emptying from the swales in a timely manner, there should be no need for maintenance.
Q: What can be done about mosquitoes in the swale that are causing a health hazard?
A: Flagler County Mosquito Control can be reached at (386) 445-4135 for an extra spraying.
Q: What causes my swale to back up and hold water?
A: Over time, the swale system collects sediment and builds "high points" where water can no longer flow freely through the swale system. Maintenance is often needed at these locations. Also, sediment often collects in driveway culvert pipes which impedes the flow of water. A machine called the Vactron is used to clean sediment from the pipes.
Q: Can I dig out my own swale?
A: The City discourages residents from this digging out their own swale. The swale system in many areas of the City functions at a grade of one inch for every 80 feet. The City has the necessary survey equipment to obtain exact slope variations and the machinery to ensure that the swale system is graded at the proper levels throughout the whole system.
Q: I think there is a problem with my swale. Who should I contact?
A: Please contact our Customer Service Department at 386-986-2360.
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Q: What is the benefit of a clay court?
A: The clay courts tend to be a lot more forgiving because they are softer, and the player will tend to glide on the court, and the forces to the joints of the body, especially the legs and the back, significantly decrease on the clay courts. The ball often moves much slower on a clay court because, again, the forces of the ball are absorbed more readily. Therefore, the pace of the ball tends to be a little bit slower on a clay court.
Q: What should a player look for in a club or tennis facility?
A: First important step is to check out the people that run the facility. Secondly do they have certified tennis professionals on staff? Next do they have involvement with the US Tennis Association? Are there leagues available either within the club or that plays other clubs in the area? What's important to the player? Is it competition, or the social aspect? Is it a combination of the two? Do they offer group and private tennis lessons for both adults and children? Do they offer programs for all ages of players?
Q: What types of memberships will be available?
Q: What types of Programs will be offered?
A: Click here to view the programs that are offered.
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Q: When is my Utility due?
A: The balance of your Utility bill is due upon receipt. The date provided on the bill is not a due date; it is the date that late charges will be applied to your account if the balance is not paid.
Q: How can I pay my Utility bill?
A: There are currently several ways of paying for your Utility bill. They are:
- Mailing in a check with your Utility bill.
- Using our online Utility Billing Service.
- Dropping off your payment at our drop off box in front of the Utilities Office, located at 2 Utility Drive, Palm Coast.
- Using automatic payment via your bank account.
- Using automatic payment via your credit card.
Q: How can I sign up for automatic payment of my Utility bill?
A: Use
this link to sign up for our self-service automatic deductions by checking account, savings account or credit card. **Please note you will not be able to sign up until you have received your first utility bill.
Q: Are there any additional fees incurred for using the Online Utility Billing feature, or the Automatic Payment features?
A: No. There are no additional fees for using any of these features.
Q: What are the current rates for Utility services?
Q: My water has been shut off, what do I need to do?
A: If your water service has been disconnected due to non-payment, you will need to make a payment on the account. Fore more information on paying your Utility bill view the second question listed in Utilities FAQ. If you are contacting the Utilities Department after hours you can do so by calling (888) 635-9806.
If you are a new Customer and would like to establish service, you can download the Application For New Service Form, and submit it to the Utilities Department or apply for new service online by using this form.
Q: How do I go about applying for a new Utility Account?
Q: My water bill is showing high water consumption. What should I do?
A: If your water bill is showing unusually high consumption, you may want to check for a leak. A leaky toilet, faucet, or underground pipe can cause drastic changes in your water bill. First start by checking for leaks around the house (toilets, sinks, outside spigots, etc.). If no leaks are noticed around the house you may want to check to an underground pipe leak. Here's how to check for an underground pipe leak:
First, make sure ALL water on your house is off. Make sure that your hot water heater isn't filling up, the washing machine and dishwasher are both off, outside spigots are off, etc. All water needs to be off. Once you have made sure there is no water running at your residence, locate your water meter. Your water meter is equipped with a small triangular dial (usually red) that shows when water is being used. If all the water at your residence is turned off, and that small triangular dial is spinning, it is an indicator that you may have a leak. In that situation you may want to contact a plumber or the Utility Department to get assistance from a trained technician.
If the dial is not spinning and you don't suspect a leak there may be other reasons why your water bill is unusually high. Guests staying at your house can cause your water usage to rise as well as activities such as filling a pool or kids playing outside in the water. People have also had water stolen from them through the outside spigots of their home. If you suspect that someone has been stealing water from you, you can purchase a spigot lock from a local hardware retailer.
Q: I need the change the mailing address for my account. How do I do that?
A: You can do that by contacting the Utility Customer Service Office at (386) 986-2360, or by submitting your request using the
Citizens Issue Tracking System. You can also submit a change of address by writing the new address on your Utility bill and submitting it with your payment.
Q: There are discrepancies on my bill. Who should I contact?
Q: The amount that I owe shown online and on the bill mailed to my house are different. Why did this happen and what should I do?
A: It is possible that activity has transpired on your account since your bill was mailed out, causing the difference in the balance due amount shown online verses the amount shown on your printed bill. A payment being processed or new charges being added to your account after your bill has been printed would cause a difference between the online balance and the printed balance.
Checks can take up to ten (10) days to process. If after ten days your check payment is not credited to your account you may want to inquire with your bank regarding the check.
If you still have questions regarding your bill you can contact the Utility Customer Service Office at (386) 986-2360, or by using the Citizens Issue Tracking System.
Q: I haven't received a bill in several months. What should I do?
Q: My garbage has not been picked up. Who do I contact?
A: Although garbage is listed on your Utility bill, questions in reference to garbage pick-up should be directed to the Customer Service by phone at (386) 986-2360, or by the
Citizens Issue Tracking System. You can also
click here to find out when garbage is picked up in your area.
Q: I have a question regarding stormwater. Who should I contact?
A: Questions involving Stormwater should be directed to the Customer Service at (386) 986-2360. You may also want to read the
Swale FAQs. Issues can also be submitted via the
Citizen Issue Tracking System.
Q: My PEP tank light is red on the side of my house, who do I call?
A: That is the light indicating that there is a problem with your PEP tank which is part of the City of Palm Coast's sewer system. If you see that light on you need to call the Utility Customer Service Department at (386) 986-2360.
Q: I am a builder and need to request a PEP Tank installation. How do I do that?
A: You can call the Utility Customer Service Department at (386) 986-2360 and request the PEP Tank Installation Form, or you can fill out the form online
here.
Q: I've been approached by someone telling me that I need a home water treatment system or filter for my drinking water. Do I need this?
A: Your city's water supply meets or exceeds all federal, state and local drinking water standards.
Click here for more information on home water treatment system sale scams.
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Q: How can I tell if I have a leak?
A: All City meters have a leak detector on the meter dial face. The Sensus manual reading meter has a white triangle in the center of the dial face, the Sensus electronic register meter has a 3/8" hole in the dial face with a black line on a red background and the Neptune manual meter has a red triangle in the dial face. When ever water is flowing no matter how small of a quantity the indicator will move. To check for a leak, first make sure there is no water being used, then check the leak indicator on the dial face, if the indicator moves clockwise then that indicates water is flowing through the meter.
Q: What causes most leaks?
A:
- Toilet flappers are one of the most common causes of high bills. When the rubber starts to warp and does not make a good seal on the seat ring, the water in the tank slowly drains which causes the fill valve float to fall and refill the tank.
- Pin hole leak in PVC line going to the house. A hole size of a 1/16" in diameter leaking 24/7 will lose 24,600 gallons in a month.
Q: My meter seems to read fast. Why?
A: The City uses positive displacement meters, which means that the water physically has to pass through the meter and turn a piston before it will register. Meters historically read slower (customer receives more water than they are billed) with age because at approximately 8-10 years of use the piston assembly starts to wear and allows more water to pass through the assembly than is recorded.
Q: What type of backflow preventer is required for an irrigation system?
A: The accepted backflow assemblies are a Pressure Vacuum Breaker or a Reduced Pressure Zone Assembly. This is due to the degree of hazard per the Florida Administrative Code 62-555.360.
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Q: I've been approached by someone telling me that I need a home water treatment system or filter for my drinking water. Do I need this?
A: Your city's water supply meets or exceeds all federal, state and local drinking water standards.
Click here for more information on home water treatment system sale scams.
Q: Why is my water green or yellow?
A: Most water from the source water wells that supply the Palm Coast treatment facilities contains trace amounts of organic material that occurs naturally and tends to impart a yellow/green to green color when rainfall percolates through the ground into the water table. Our treatment process only removes some of the organic color from the water. The color is most noticeable in large volume with a light colored background such as a toilet, tub or pool. The color issue is purely aesthetic and the level is below the maximum standard set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection of 15 color units. Some color may also be generated by corrosion by-products that can impart a red, orange or brown color to water in the distribution pipes; we can flush the lines to reduce this type of color. Air can also cause water to appear milky; we can flush the lines to reduce this type of color too.
Q: Is the water safe to drink?
A: Yes the water meets all of the standards set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
Q: Disinfection: Why do we use Monochloramine? (Not Chlorine)
A: Monochloramine is a compound that uses both chlorine and ammonia. This disinfectant is used so that the chlorine does not react with certain organic material that occurs naturally in almost all ground water. A compound called Trihalomethane is formed as a result of these organic materials reacting with free chlorine. The ammonia is added to react with the chlorine so the chlorine does not react with the organic material. The city also temporarily changes the disinfection treatment procedure to free chlorine three times a year. This conversion to chlorine (which is a stronger disinfectant) from chloramines (which is a longer lasting disinfectant) allows us to perform a water distribution system purge as recommended by the Department of Environmental Protection for water utilities using chloramines as their primary disinfectant. After this process is completed, we will revert to disinfection by the chloramines method. During this period, customers may experience a slight increase in the taste and odor of chlorine.
Q: What can I do if my water smells and tastes like chlorine?
A: The City of Palm Coast disinfects the drinking water with chloramines to ensure protection against contaminates throughout the distribution system. The city routinely collects bacteriologic samples throughout the city to ensure the water is safe and chlorine and pH levels are at our target level. However, at times customers may notice an increase in chlorine taste and odor. A chlorine odor is often an indicator that the disinfectant is effectively working to remove bacteria.
Q: Why does my water from the tap smell like rotten eggs?
A: An odor from your tap is commonly from the sink drain and not the water. The plumbing beneath your sink, typically the u-shape pipe, can collect debris over time and create an odor at your tap. If you smell an odor, fill a clean glass halfway with tap water and smell the water in a separate room or outdoors. If the odor is no longer present, the odor is likely from the plumbing beneath your sink. If the smell is still present it may be your hot water heater.
Single handle water faucets are typically being used in these situations and are not being fully turned on the cold position. This can occur when a water heater is too large for amount of hot water typically used or may be stale water. This happens in homes that are left vacant for a long period of time. Flush lines to bring in fresh water and total chlorine residual. Hot water heaters in vacant homes can cause this problem also. Heating the water can liberate hydrogen. If there are any sulfur compounds available, the result would be the formation of Hydrogen Sulfide, a rotten egg odor causing gas. In addition, sulfur reducing bacteria can liberate hydrogen sulfide and cause black water. A solution is to increase the temperature of the hot water heater temporarily to above 160 degrees. This will destroy the sulfur bacteria.
Q: What causes the water to stain my clothes?
A: Stains can be caused by corrosion products from the distribution system or household plumbing, old hot water heaters or washing machines or the type of detergent or bleach used. This condition can often be solved by simply flushing the water lines or water heater, or changing the type of detergent or bleach used.
Q: Why are there particles in my water or in my ice cubes?
A: This can come from distribution system sediment, household plumbing or when water freezes into ice causing calcium to precipitate.
Q: Why is there orange or pink material in both shower and bath?
A: Pink residue is less likely a problem associated with water quality than with naturally occurring airborne bacteria, and also affected by the home owner's cleaning habits. The bacteria produces a pinkish film, and sometimes a dark gray film, on surfaces that are regularly moist, including shower heads, toilet bowls, bathtubs sink drains and tile. Short of buying pink fixtures, the best solution is to keep surfaces free from bacteria film is continual cleaning.
Q: Dishwasher Problems? Staining or etching of dishes, glasses or silverware?
A: Etching is caused by overuse of dish washing detergents on pre – rinsed glasses / dishes. The recommendation is to use the proper amount of detergent for our hardness level (approximately 6 grains per gallon), use a different product, or use a drying agent such as Jet Dry. If you have staining or corrosion problems on your silverware, try separating the knives from other silverware. Some knives have high carbon content and will develop surface rust or can cause surface rust on other utensils. Always hand wash and dry, fine china, and real silverware.
Q: Why does my toilet bowl have a black ring around it?
A: This is usually mold, mildew or mineral deposits at the water / air interface. Bacteria, fungus and mold spores normally found in the air can cause rings in your toilet bowl. Wet surfaces provide ideal conditions, and the organisms reproduce rapidly, growing together to form a ring. The color of the ring depends on the species of bacteria, mold or fungus. Another possibility may be your washers and flappers inside the toilet tank are breaking down from the chlorine causing the black coming off your flapper to stain your toilet. You can easily remove the rings with a toilet bowl brush and household cleaners. Close the toilet lid to reduce the number of spores and reduce the light needed for growth. This is usually mold, mildew or mineral deposits at the water / air interface. The recommendation is to clean with bleach or a cleaning product such as CLR.
Q: Why do we use Corrosion Inhibitors?
A: To preclude the leaching of certain metals into the water - particularly lead, copper and iron.
Q: Why do we sample for lead and copper?
A: These are materials that are regulated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. We have to demonstrate that our water is stable and does not promote leaching of these materials into the water from household plumbing systems.
Q: Why are there white eggshell like particles clogging my faucet aerators?
A: According to plumbing industry sources some residential hot water tanks may have a defective, white, plastic 'dip tube' inside the tank. Dip tubes are used to deliver the incoming cold water directly to the bottom of the hot water tank. This helps to prevent the cold, denser water from mixing with the hot water which is lighter and remains in the upper portion of the unit. When a dip tube breaks down inside the hot water tank, small plastic chips or flakes (pieces of the dip tube) may enter the household piping, get caught in the aerator screen at the tap and block the flow of water. Depending upon the manufacturer, some of the dip tube particles float, some sink and some may appear greenish or tan colored. Dip tubes that have broken off inside the hot water tank allow the cold water to mix with the hot water. Thus, it will seem like the hot water does not last as long.While the chips do not pose a health risk, since they clog household faucets and appliances and diminish the heater efficiency and effectiveness, the dip tube should be fixed. If you experience this problem, contact your plumber for information on dip tube replacement.
Q: Sometimes the water from my tap is a brown. What causes this?
A: In Palm Coast, brown water suddenly coming from the tap is usually the result of a disturbance to the normal flow of water in a water main. This disturbance may be caused by opening or closing a water main valve, opening a fire hydrant or a water main break. If the water inside the pipe changes either speed or direction or both, this change can cause the sediments inside the pipe to lift from the bottom and flow with the water. This could cause brown water to come out of the tap. Typically the Utility Department flushes water through hydrants annually to remove these pipe sediments and keep your water clean. If the brown water is a common occurrence rather than something that happens on seldom basis, it is possible that the brown water may be caused by old, rusty pipes inside the house or from failing hot water tanks. Brown water coming only from the hot water tap is an indication of a problem with the hot water tank.
Q: Is our water safe for watering plants?
A: Yes. The drinking water in Palm Coast is safe for watering all plants.
Q: Is our water safe for pets and fish?
A: Our water is safe for all pets to drink except for fish, reptiles and amphibians that live in water. Animals that live in water take water directly into their bloodstream through their gills. For this reason, the disinfectant must be removed before adding water to fish bowls and aquariums. Consult your local pet store for the appropriate neutralizing chemical. Ensure that the product says that it will neutralize 'chloramines' and 'chlorine'.
Q: Will using a home filter make the water safer to drink?
A: Home water filters may improve the taste, smell or appearance of your drinking water, but they do not necessarily make the water any safer or healthier. Please keep in mind that filters need regular maintenance. If the filter is not maintained properly, it can actually become a source of contamination and the water coming from the filter may contain high levels of bacteria.
Q: Do I need to buy bottled water?
A: There is no need to buy bottled water for health reasons since the drinking water in Palm Coast meets all state and federal water standards. Also bottled water is up to 273 times more costly than palm Coast drinking water.
Q: What is the bottom line on Palm Coast Water Quality?
A: Palm Coast residents enjoy safe, healthful water. Palm Coast Utility Water Operations staff run hundreds of tests each month on the water in the Palm Coast Drinking Water System.
Q: What is the hardness of our drinking water?
A: The average hardness of the drinking water in Palm Coast is about 100 mg/L (or expressed in different units, about 6 grains per gallon). In Palm Coast, since the water is soft, dish washing and clothes washing require less detergent than in cities that have hard water. Soft water is 100 mg/L or less. Hard water is 200 mg/L or more.
Q: What is the fluoride concentration in our drinking water?
A:
Very low levels of fluoride are naturally present in Palm Coast drinking water. This natural fluoride comes from the geological formations. The average amount of fluoride in our water is about 0.061 mg/L (almost non –detectable). This is well below the maximum limit of 4.0 mg/L
Q: Do I need to use a fluoride supplement?
A: The tiny amount (0.061 mg/L) of fluoride that is present in Palm Coast drinking water is considered inadequate for dental protection purposes. Individuals must provide their own supplements if they so desire. It is suggested that you consult your dentist.
Q: Sometimes my water looks milky. Is it still safe to drink?
A: In a drinking water system, the water travels under pressure. Occasionally, during maintenance work, air may become trapped inside these pipes and when the pipe is returned to service, the water pressure causes the air to dissolve into the water. Then, when the water comes out of the tap, it is no longer under pressure and the air that was dissolved in the water, comes out of solution forming very tiny bubbles. This causes the water to look milky. When poured into a glass, the milky water will start to clear from the bottom up - with the clear water slowly moving upward. Often, when the water is clearing, the water will effervesce like pop. Usually this milky appearance is only temporary and the water will soon return to normal. The water is still safe to drink.
Q: Why do I sometimes see technicians flushing fire hydrants?
A: Palm Coast water quality technicians regularly flush fire hydrants throughout the Distribution system to test chlorine and pH levels. When crews flush hydrants, it comes out of a hydrant all at once, and the water may initially look discolored. If you watch our workers flush, you will notice that the water clears up rather quickly.
Q: Does the city maintain the fire hydrants?
A: Palm Coast does hydrant maintenance regularly on all the hydrants throughout the city and flushes hydrants to ensure that all fire hydrants are working properly and serviced.
Q: What is corrosion control treatment?
A: Corrosion control treatment is a treatment technique used to prevent pipe corrosion and the presence of metals in drinking water. Drinking water treatment plants, such as the City of Palm Coast, use corrosion control treatment before water leaves the treatment plant. The city adds orthophosphate to prevent corrosion of pipes in the distribution system and in your home. Orthophosphate creates a thin protective coating inside pipes and plumbing fixtures and is very effective in reducing the presence of lead and other metals in the city's water.
Q: Is orthophosphate safe in my drinking water?
A: Yes, orthophosphate is a commonly used corrosion control treatment and is safe in drinking water. In 2006, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) designated orthophosphate treatment as the optimal corrosion control treatment for reducing the presence of lead in drinking water. Orthophosphate is a food-grade chemical and is generally recognized as safe by the Food and Drug Administration and the EPA. DC Water has set strict target levels for orthophosphate in the water distribution system and routinely samples and tests water to ensure levels meet EPA standards.
Q: Does the city sample the drinking water?
A: Yes, the City of Palm Coast takes bacteriological samples twice a month to ensure safe drinking water. We also have two water quality technicians that flush dead end water mains to check chlorine and ph. levels daily to ensure water quality.
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Q: Is there any way that I can make the text size on your site larger?
A: Currently the ability to adjust this site's text size by clicking a button on the site is not available. However, your browser should have a similar function built into it if you need to increase the
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