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Fire & Rescue Department

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1. How do I obtain a burn permit?

The City of Murfreesboro does not issue burn permits. However, you must contact the Murfreesboro Fire & Rescue Department (MFRD) Administration at 615-893-1422, between 8 and 10 a.m. the day you would like to burn to find out if the fire marshal is allowing burning. The fire marshal decides on a daily basis whether or not it is a burn day according to weather, atmospheric conditions, etc.

You will be asked for your contact information and where you will be burning. On weekends, you may contact MFRD Headquarters at 615-849-2661. If you are in the county, you must contact the State of Tennessee Department of Agriculture’s Division of Forestry at 877-350-2876.

2. How do I set up a tour of a fire station?

MFRD has ten fire stations. However, station tours are conducted at Headquarters located at 202 E. Vine Street. You may schedule a tour for your group by emailing mfrdprevents@murfreesborotn.gov. 

3. I received a call saying they were Murfreesboro Fire Rescue Department asking for a donation or selling concert tickets, are they with MFRD?

The Murfreesboro Fire Rescue Department does not solicit funds. The Murfreesboro Fire Fighters Association has an outsourced agency that will call for donations or selling tickets to a concert. They are not affliated with MFRD.

4. How do I take advantage of the Project SAFE (Smoke Alarms for Everyone) Program?

You can take advantage of the Project SAFE Program by contacting the Fire Administration Division at 615-893-1422.

5. How do I apply for a position with MFRD?

You can only apply for a position when the department has an opening. Current job openings for the city can be found here.  Contact the Human Resources Department for more information.

6. Does the Citizens Fire Academy help me obtain employment with MFRD?

No, the Citizens Fire Academy does not have any baring or significance with employment at Murfreesboro Fire Rescue Department.

7. Can you fill my swimming pool?

MFRD does not fill swimming pools. You can contact your respective water department and they will place a meter on the hydrant and possibly loan you the hose to fill it faster.

8. Can you get my cat out of a tree?

If you need assistance with retrieving an animal from a tree, we will try our best to assist (within reason). For more information contact the Fire Administration Division at 615-893-1422.

9. How do I report a damaged fire hydrant?

To report a damaged fire hydrant contact Murfreesboro Water and Sewer Department at 615-848-3214 or the Consolidated Utility District at 615-893-7225.

10. How do I register my storm shelter?

If you live in the city limits of Murfreesboro and want to register your storm shelter, contact the Fire Administration Division at 615-893-1422.

We will ask for your name, address, type of shelter, where it is located, phone number, and name / phone number of someone outside of the home.

11. How do I file a blasting complaint?

To file a blasting complaint contact the Fire Marshal's Division at 615-849-2605.

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Food Trucks

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1. Where Can I Apply for a Permit?

You will get your Food Truck Permit APPLICATION from the Planning Department located on the second floor of City Hall (111 W Vine Street, Murfreesboro, TN 37130). After you get the application you will need to compile all the items on the checklist. Once you have done so, you will go to the Building and Codes Department (located just down the hall from the Planning Department) to pay and have your application processed.

You may also print out your application here.

2. How do I obtain a Fire Safety Inspection?

The Murfreesboro Fire Marshal's Office visually inspects each new food truck permit applicant. Mobile Food Service Vehicle (MFSV) Fire Safety Inspections are conducted by appointment only. To schedule an appointment please contact the Fire Marshal's Office at (615) 849-2605 during regular business hours, Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Below is a copy, for information purposes only, of the inspection form that the Fire Marshal's Office will use. You do not need to print out this form. You will receive a carbon copy of your inspection report from the Fire Marshal's Office at the time of your inspection.

MFSV Fire Safety Inspection Form

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Golf Department

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1. Do you offer annual memberships?

Old Fort Golf Club offers a frequent player’s card at a cost of $15 a year. The player receives points for dollars spent on green, cart, and pull cart fees. Three hundred points results in a complimentary 18-hole green fee for their next visit. Discounts on range balls and non-sale merchandise are also included.

2. Do you take tee times in advance at Old Fort Golf Club?

Yes, five days in advance.

 Reserve a tee time at Old Fort Golf Club online, or by calling 615-896-2448

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Historic Zoning

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1. What is the difference between the National Register Historic District and the local Historic Zone (H-1)?

The National Register Historic District designation is awarded by the U.S. Department of the Interior. Although this status is very prestigious, it comes with no special protections.

The local historic district zone (H-1) is a special zoning category contained in the local zoning ordinance. Once designated, a Historic Zoning Commission is created to maintain the beauty and integrity of the zone. The commission is a city board made up of preservation specialists, historians, architects and ordinary citizens.

Before anyone can demolish, or make exterior modifications to a home or building within a local historic zone (H-1), the applicant must apply to the Historic Zoning Commission for a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA). The commission will assess the proposed change for compliance with the standards established in the zone's guidelines for alterations, demolitions, and removals. Emphasis is placed on preserving street facades of historic structures.

Standards are generally relaxed for additions and major changes proposed for the rear of buildings. The COA requirement applies not only to homeowners, but to businesses and government entities in the H-1 zone as well.

2. If my house were included in the Historic Zone (H-1), would I be required to restore it to its original historic appearance?

No. Property owners inside a historic zone (H-1) would not be required to do anything to their houses. They could maintain them just as they are. Only additions or exterior alterations would require review and approval.

3. Would I need a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) to remodel my kitchen or bathroom?

No. Historic zoning (H-1) regulations only concern is the exteriors of homes and buildings in the designated zone. Remodeling, renovation, and all other interior changes are exempt.

4. Would I need a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) if I wanted to paint my house?

A COA would not be required for repainting a house or other structure in the district. However, the Historic Zoning Commission maintains information, and will advise on appropriate historic paint colors if requested, and could be of assistance in choosing colors that would contribute to the established district.

5. Would I have to get a COA to replace damaged clapboard or re-side the whole house with vinyl siding?

If you decide to replace the damaged boards to match the existing wood siding, no COA would be required. If the damage turned out to be substantial, requiring the replacement of a great deal of siding and trim, an administrative approval from the Historic Zoning Commission's staff planner would be required. If you decided to reside your house with new material such as vinyl siding, you would have to apply for and obtain a COA from the Historic Zoning Commission.

6. I want to build a substantial addition to my house. If it were located in the historic zone (H-1), would I have to apply for a COA and, if so, could it be denied?

An addition to any structure in the historic zone (H-1) would require a COA from the Historic Zoning Commission. If the design of your addition could not be made to conform to the standards set out in the historic zone's Guidelines for Alterations, Demolitions, and Removals the commission could deny your application. The commission will grant a COA if the design for a addition is compatible with proportions, style and design of the existing structure. Normally, additions to the rear and sides of a house, which are not readily visible from the street, are held to a more flexible standard.

7. My house is not located within the proposed historic zone (H-1). How will the creation of the H-1 zone benefit me?

The area included inside the proposed historic zone also happens to be one of the areas in the downtown most vulnerable to change and neglect. To the extent historic zoning (H-1) status will counteract these threats and prevent the deterioration they can cause, the whole neighborhood will become more stable and the quality of life for everyone in the neighborhood, inside and outside the historic zone, will be preserved and enhanced. Studies have shown that property values increase inside a designated historic zone. What once was a slowly deteriorating area can be stabilized and property values will begin to increase.

8. If a historic zone (H-1) is created, but subsequently proves to be unsatisfactory to most of the property owners inside it, can it be undone?

Yes. historic zoning status is conferred by the City Council according to the city code. Having created an overlay zone, the council may subsequently modify the boundaries or may even undo the zone altogether.

9. Are there tax benefits from being located within a historic district or zone?

There is a federal tax incentive program that currently applies to preservation, which is called Rehabilitation Investment Tax Credit (RITC). Certain costs that are incurred due to rehabilitation of an old structure are eligible for a tax credit. There are two credit rates available - 20% for a historic structure and 10% for a non-historic structure. Rehabilitation Investment Tax Credits are available to the owners or certain long-term renters of income producing properties in a National Registered Historic District.

10. Are there other advantages to being in a historic district?

The Historic Zoning Commission can offer technical assistance and expertise on projects occurring within the historic zone. Members of the commission are able to provide information that will enable an applicant to save money on material, on where material may be purchased, or provide alternatives to a project that will fall within the design guidelines of the district.

11. Who is on the Historic Zoning Commission?

The Historic Zoning Commission is composed of nine members consisting of a:

• Architect, if available
• Member of the local planning commission at the time of such person's appointment
• Representative of a local patriotic or historical organization
• Remaining members shall be appointed from the community in general

The Historic Zoning Commission shall be appointed by the chief executive of the municipality, subject to confirmation by the local legislative body.

12. What are some activities that would and would not require a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA)?

Activities that would not require a COA:

• Interior modifications of any kind
• Landscaping, including gardens, shrubs, and trees
• Other routine repairs and maintenance
• Repainting
• Repairs to walks, driveways, fences and patios
• Repairs to siding, trim, railings, shingles, etc., that match existing materials

Activities that would require an Administrative Approval for a COA:

• Erection of side and rear yard fences
• Installation of exterior mechanical equipment
• Replacement of exterior steps and stairs
• Replacement of roofs, siding, porch railings, and architectural features such as columns
• Storm windows and doors

Activities that would require a COA from the Historical Zoning Commission:

• Construction of parking lots and garages
• Demolition or removal of all or part of a structure
• Erection of new buildings
• Exterior changes such as additions, changes in siding material, style of windows, doors or architectural features
• Replacement outbuildings

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Legal

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1. Can you give me legal advice?

The Legal Department does not and cannot give legal advice to individual citizens and businesses. The Legal Department only provides legal assistance to the city. 

A list of Free Legal Help Clinics may be found here.

Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services has both phone (1-844-HELP4TN) and online resources.

 If you have a personal legal problem and have a low income, you may be able to get legal help from:

Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands

The Rutherford/Cannon County Bar Association sponsors a Free Legal Clinic:

Greenhouse Ministries 309 S. Spring St. Murfreesboro, TN 37130 Ph: 615-494-0499

Every Thursday. Sign-ups begin at 3:00 p.m. Limited spaces available. No appointment necessary.

The Nashville Bar Association sponsors Dial-A-Lawyer on the first Tuesday of the month from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm.  Call 615-242-9272 and you will be placed in the queue; wait time and availability will vary depending on available attorneys and number of calls.

 Legal Aid and Pro Bono of Nashville can be reached at 615-244-6610.

2. Where can I find the City Code and laws?

In January 2017, the City of Murfreesboro published its Code of Ordinances online.  They are now fully searchable.  Below are links.  

Murfreesboro City Code

Appendix A, Zoning

Appendix C, Pension Plan

3. What are the City's laws about panhandling and solicitation?

Please review Murfreesboro City Code, Section 21-5.3 Unlawful Solicitations.  Depending on your particular situation and questions, we would suggest you search and review the City Code as well.

Community Development maintains information regarding homeless resources.  

The police department enforces most laws in the City Code at their discretion.  The non-emergency dispatch number is 615-893-1311.

4. What are the City's laws about fireworks?

Please review Murfreesboro City Code, Chapter 12, Article II. Pyrotechnics.

Additional questions should be directed to the fire department at 615-893-1422.

5. What are the City’s laws about noise?

Please review Murfreesboro City Code, Chapter 21, Article IV. Noise Control.

Violations may be reported to police non-emergency dispatch at 615-893-1311.

More information on Noise Control may also be found here.

6. What are the City's laws about animals?

Please review the following Murfreesboro City Code provisions:

Chapter 5, Animals and Fowl.

Section 14-120, Refuse from dogs, cats and domestic fowl (also includes number of allowed animals on a lot of record)

Section 28-22, Feeding animals on streets

Section 28-23, Animals or substances which are nuisances or may imperil life, health or safety

Other City Code provisions may apply to your question.  The City Code and Appendix A, Zoning Ordinance are available and searchable online.

Rutherford County PAWS enforces, regulates and maintains animal control within the City of Murfreesboro.  

7. What are the City's laws about signs?

Please review Murfreesboro City Code, Chapter 25.2, Signs

Additional questions, should be directed to the Sign Administrator at 615-893-3750.

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Main

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1. How do I contact a city department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

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Parks & Recreation

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1. What are the phone numbers and addresses for each Murfreesboro parks and recreation facility?

Murfreesboro Parks & Recreation Administrative Office:
697 Veterans Parkway
Murfreesboro, TN 37133
Ph: 615-890-5333

Sports*Com
2310 Memorial Blvd
Murfreesboro, TN 37133
Ph: 615-895-5040

Patterson Community Center
521 Mercury Blvd
Murfreesboro, TN 37133
Ph: 615-893-7439

McFadden Community Center
211 Bridge Avenue
Murfreesboro, TN 37133
Ph: 615-893-1802
Athletics Office: 615-907-2251

Cannonsburgh Village
321 South Front St.
Murfreesboro, TN 37133
Ph: 615-890-0355

Wilderness Station
697 Veterans Parkway
Murfreesboro, TN 37133
Ph: 615-217-3017

Greenway
Ph: 615-893-2141

2. How do I rent a picnic shelter?

To rent a picnic shelter call 615-890-5333 to make a reservation. See the guidelines for shelter reservations for more information. Rates and hours are also available online.

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Police

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1. What number do I call for non-emergencies?

For general information call 629-201-5500
other, non-emergency dispatch needs, please call 615-893-1311.

2. What number do I call for emergencies?

For any emergency items, please call 911.

3. Do I need an Alarm Permit?

Murfreesboro city code requires an alarm permit for businesses and residences.

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Police Department Employment

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1. How do I apply for a position with MPD?

You can only apply for a position when the department has an opening.  Current job openings for the city can be found here.  Contact the Human Resources Department for more information.

2. Is the City of Murfreesboro an equal opportunity and drug-free workplace employer?

Yes. The City of Murfreesboro is a Tennessee drug-free workplace employer and requires applicants and employees to submit to drug and alcohol testing. The city is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applicants for all positions without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status.

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Police: Office of Professional Responsibility

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1. Are all complaints investigated regardless of the their nature?

Yes, MPD investigates every complaint. Typically minor complaints ( i.e. rudeness) are handled by the employees direct supervisor. Complaints of a more serious nature are investigated by the Office of Professional Responsibility.

2. Will I be notified of the outcome of my complaint?

Yes, a phone call or letter mailed to the complainant will outline the investigation and the findings.

3. What happens to an officer if my complaint is founded?

Corrective action taken against an MPD employee is the responsibility of the Chief of Police. The action taken is dependent on the seriousness of the sustained violation. This can include verbal reprimands to termination and or criminal prosecution.

4. How long will the investigation take?

Typically, investigations are completed within 30 days. However, the more complicated the allegation the longer the investigation can take. There are no limits to the number of days for an investigation to be completed.

5. What if I don’t agree with the outcome of my case?

Once you have been advised of the final disposition, you may request a Citizen Review Board Hearing by contacting the Office of Professional Responsibility. The request will be evaluated on a case by case basis by the Review Board Chairmen and/or the Chief Of Police. 

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Rover Public Transportation

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1. Where can I buy Murfreesboro Transit multi-day passes?

Murfreesboro City Hall

First Floor - Tax Department

111 West Vine Street

Murfreesboro, TN  37130

Monday - Friday

8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

2. Where does Murfreesboro Transit go?

• We have 7 routes in Murfreesboro.  Murfreesboro Transit Route Guide
• Murfreesboro Transit buses can take you to Shopping areas such as the Avenues and Stones River Mall.  We can take you to the Medical facilities along the Gateway, Sports*Com, Grocery stores, VA Hospital, and many other locations along our 7 routes.

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Solid Waste

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1. How much are solid waste collection fees?

Solid Waste fee information can be found here.

2. When will you pick up my brush?

We are not on a set schedule, but we try to circle the town every 14-21 days.

3. Will you pick-up anything I set out by the curb?

No, we will not pick-up anything you set out by the curb. We only empty what is inside your garbage container. If you have furniture items you may call and schedule an appointment. The phone number to schedule that appointment is 615-893-3681.

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St. Clair Street Senior Center

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1. How old do you have to be to join?

Sixty years of age and older or the spouse of a senior.

2. Can I signup for activities over the phone?

Yes, you are able to signup for activities over the phone, unless there is a cost for the activity.

3. What does it cost to belong to the senior center?

There is no cost to become a participant of the senior center.

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Street Department

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1. Who do I call when a tree in the City's Right-of-Way is dead?

Please contact the Street Department at 615-893-4380.

2. If I live outside of the Murfreesboro City limits who do I call about a tree that has fallen in the street?

If you live in the unincorporated portions of Rutherford County please call the Rutherford County Highway Department at 615-898-7856. If you live within the limits of Smyrna please call the Town of Smyrna Public Works Department at 615-459-9766. If you live within the limits of LaVergne please call the LaVergne Public Works Department at 615-793-9891. If you live within the limits of Eagleville please call Eagleville City Hall at 615-274-2922.

3. What is an "easement" ?

An easement is a legal right to use property owned by another party for a special purpose (i.e. a drainage easement).  The easement holder (The City) has the right to access and inspect the property contained within the easement and to place certain restrictions on how the property can be changed, maintained or used.  The easement holder is not responsible for the beautification of an easement but merely the functionality.

4. What is a "right of way" ?

Right-of-Way (ROW) is the city-owned strip of land from the edge of the street back a specified distance. Its purpose is to allow the city to build and maintain the street, curb, gutter and storm sewers. This land is the responsibility of the landowner but the city has the right to determine what takes place there. Property records may need to be reviewed to determine the exact dimension since the depth of a ROW varies from location to location.  

5. Residential Street Light?

Residential street lights in the City limits are the responsibility of the Murfreesboro Electric Department.  Please call 615-893-5514 to report an outage.

6. Road projects and Road Closings?

The Engineering Department is responsible for all road projects and road closings.  Please call 615-893-6441 for further information.

7. Traffic Lights and Street Signs?

Any issues with traffic lights or street signs should be directed to the Traffic Department at 615-893-6441. 

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Tax & Finance Department

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1. When are property taxes due and what is the penalty for being late?

Property taxes are due December 31 each year. If this falls on a weekend you have until the next work day the city is open to pay without penalty and interest being added. We take post office postmark as proof of the payment being sent on or before December 31. The penalty and interest is 1.5% per month the payment is late. Please call our office if you have additional questions.

2. Do you take partial payments for property taxes?

Yes we take partial payments. We have guidelines that would need to be followed and any amounts unpaid will be turned over to Chancery Court at the proper deadline. Please call 615-893-5210, and let us discuss this with you if you are interested.

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Water Resources Customer Service

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1. I want to fill my swimming pool for the summer months, but I also want to avoid an outrageous bill due to the large amount of water I would use. Are there any discounts you offer for filling pools?

Yes, we do offer credits for pool adjustments. Call our Customer Service office at (615) 848-3209 before downloading and submitting the pool adjustment form found here: http://www.murfreesborotn.gov/430/Billing 

2. My water bill is extremely high this month and I’ve been using the normal amount of water I always use. I’m not understanding why it is so much. Is there a reason for this?

It sounds like you may have a leak. If this is the issue, call our Customer Service Department at (615) 848-3209. We may be able to help you obtain an adjustment to the sewer portion of your bill. However, we can only apply leak adjustments after plumbing has been done to repair the broken pipe(s).

3. I need to purchase a tap for my new business. How does this work? What do I need to bring into the office to set it up?

The information needed to purchase a tap for your business includes the address, lot number, tax ID, driver’s license, and/or business name. We can accept checks, debits/credit cards, and cash. 

For further questions related to fees for taps, contact our Engineering department at (615) 893- 6441.

4. My water was disconnected when I was at work and I had no time to pay the bill once I got off before closing. I need my water to be reconnected quickly! Is there a way to get my service reconnected?

There is a way to have your service reconnected after hours, but a $75 after hours fee will be added to your next month’s balance. The past due balance plus the $40 non-payment fee will need to be paid.

5. How long does it usually take for my service to be reconnected after paying my bill?

The time it takes for our meter readers to reconnect your service usually depends upon the time in which the bill is paid. The earlier you pay, the quicker your service reconnection moves to the top of our priority list. You have until 6pm to pay your bill to receive a same-day service reconnection.

6. What types of identification are acceptable for me to get an extension on my water bill?

A state issued driver’s license is an acceptable form of identification to get an extension on your bill.

7. I need to apply for a payment extension, but the bill is in my spouse’s name. Could I still get the extension if I bring in his state I.D. and/or a marriage license?

Unfortunately, no. Whoever’s name the account is under is only allowed to make payment extensions. Your spouse will need to be present and have valid identification to get the extension.

8. A relative/family member of mine just recently passed away and the water bill is in their name? What can I do to get it changed and/or terminated since they are no longer here?

Bring your relative/family member’s death certificate into the office, along with your ID to set up a new account and/or terminate the previous one. Also, this will have to be done within 2 weeks of being notified.

9. I transferred my water service when I moved into my new home and now I am unable to pay my water bill online. Why is that?

Once you’ve transferred your services to a new address, you now have a new account number. Call our office at (615) 848-3209 to speak with a Customer Service Rep who can look up your new account number, so you are able to pay online.

10. What are some ways for me to check the quality of the water in my home without buying a water quality kit from my local convenience store?

Our Stones River Water Treatment Plant issues a Water Quality Update each day. Please contact us at (615) 848-3222 with any questions about your water quality. You can also check out our Facebook page at Murfreesboro Water Resources Department where a Daily Water Quality Update is posted each morning.

11. Sometimes I forget that my bill is due, and I always end up paying late. Is there a way for me to set up alerts that would remind me when my bill is due?

You can sign up for our customer account access portal, LINK, to request an e-bill, which reminds you when your bill is due each month, through email.

Go to www.mwsdLINK.murfreesborotn.gov to sign-up for e-bills. 

12. A friend told me that if my bill is a certain amount, I could subtract $50 and pay the difference to avoid disconnection of my service. Is this true? If so, how does this work?

At MWRD, we understand unforeseen situations can occur that may affect when you are able to pay your water bill. So yes, you can use our “Below 50” system when your bill is over $50. We subtract $50 from your balance due and you can pay the remaining amount, so that your service will not be interrupted. The amount subtracted is then added to the balance of your next bill.

13. My sewer is stopped up! Do you offer plumbing services to unblock sewer systems? If so, what are your rates?

If your sewer is stopped, please call 615-893-1223. MWRD will come out and identify the problem. If the issue is on the City’s side, there will be no charge to clear the line. However, MWRD cannot clear blockages within the customer’s plumbing.

14. After how many days will my service be disconnected after my bill’s due date?

Usually, there are 14 -16 days after the due date before your service is disconnected.

15. I would like to start monitoring the water usage in my home and/or business? How can I access that information?

You can access your home’s water usage by signing up for our AMI Customer Portal. With the AMI Customer Portal, you can monitor your consumption, set usage goals, and set up continuous alerts. 

Sign up for an account and learn more about it here: http://www.murfreesborotn.gov/1491/Customer-Portal

16. Sometimes my bill due date doesn’t align with my job’s pay days and I am always forced to pay late. Is there a way to change my bill due date to fit my job’s payment schedule?

There is not a way to change your bill’s due date because our dates are based upon your billing cycle in a prewritten, yearly billing calendar.

17. When paying my bill online through LINK, I am aware that my debit/credit card is charged a transaction fee. Does this fee still apply if I pay my bill at the office?

Yes, the transaction fee still applies whether you pay with your card online or in person.

18. I was late paying my bill because I did not receive my bill in the mail in an appropriate about of time? Why is this happening? Are there other ways to receive my bill besides by mail?

Sometimes our billing mail out dates do not align with those of the postal office. However, we offer several other payment options and ways to see your bill electronically. 

Click the link to see more: http://www.murfreesborotn.gov/1256/Payment-Options

19. I was late on paying my bill and now I have an additional $40 AND a late fee added to my current amount due, how is this possible?

The additional $40 is a non-payment fee which was applied to your account because your bill may have exceeded $50 and is more than 20 days past due.

20. How do I sign up for new service?

You will need to come to the office for new service. The office is located at: 300 NW Broad St, Murfreesboro, TN 37130

There is a $40.00 non-refundable service initiation fee. We request that you have identification (i.e. state issued driver’s license or id, passport or military id), social security number, and the address where service is needed.

If you are a business, we will need a request on company letterhead with your driver’s license and tax id number, signed by a responsible party.

If you are unable to come in, please contact our office at 615-848-3209 or go online to the city’s website [www.murfreesborotn.gov] as we may be able to assist you by having your information faxed to the office.

21. If I’m unable to pay my bill by the due date, how long do I have to pay before a late fee is applied?

You have until 9:00 AM the day after your bill is due to pay your bill.

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Water Resources FOG

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1. Where does FOG come from?

Even if you don’t deep fry food, FOG still occurs naturally in many foods, which leaves a residue behind on dishware that has been used to handle and prepare food. When dishware is washed with hot water and detergents the FOG residue becomes liquefied and is mixed with the dishwater. The mixed or emulsified FOG is then discharged with wastewater into your plumbing wastewater drain lines and, ultimately, to the City of Murfreesboro’s wastewater collection system by Food Service Establishments (FSE’s) such as restaurants, but is also discharged by other commercial FOG generators and residential dwellings, as well.

2. Why is FOG a problem?

FOG is a problem because, not only does it cause blockages in your wastewater drain lines, it also causes blockages in the City of Murfreesboro’s wastewater collection system and interferes with wastewater treatment facility processes, both of which can result in an overflow.

3. Do I need Grease Control Equipment (GCE), such as a Grease Trap, for my Food Service Establishment? What about my home?

Yes and no. Regardless of age, location, whether it’s an existing facility, a new development or a redevelopment project, all commercial FOG generators (non-residential facility engaged in the handling and preparation of food for consumption), such as Food Service Establishments, must be equipped with Grease Control Equipment, or GCE. Grease Control Equipment is typically not required for private residential dwellings unless it has been approved otherwise for commercial use such as catering.

4. Okay. So, I can just install a Grease Trap and I’m covered, right?

Not exactly because not just any type of Grease Control Equipment will do. Grease Control Equipment must be correctly sized and be of the appropriate type for each facility’s particular needs. The final size and type of Grease Control Equipment is determined by Murfreesboro Water and Sewer Department.

5. What is the first step I need to take to determine the size and type of Grease Control Equipment that I need?

The first step is to complete Murfreesboro Water and Sewer Department’s Wastewater Grease Interceptor / Trap (GrIT) application. For most Food Service Establishment development or redevelopment projects, the GrIT application must be submitted prior to receiving any building permits the Building and Codes Department.

6. How Does Murfreesboro Water and Sewer Department (MWSD) determine the proper size and type of Grease Control Equipment?

Murfreesboro Water and Sewer Department plugs specific information, supplied to us by Food Service Establishments via our Wastewater Grease Interceptor / Trap (GrIT) application, into our Grease Control Equipment (GCE) sizing worksheet, which, in turn, determines the proper size and type of GCE for each specific FSE. MWSD’s GCE sizing criteria is based on the EPA Procedure 2 model, but has been modified to meet WERF (the research arm of the Water Environment Federation) specifications.

7. What types of Grease Control Equipment (GCE) are accepted by Murfreesboro Water and Sewer Department?

Murfreesboro Water and Sewer Department prefers GCE that is installed on the exterior, more specifically a Grease Interceptor (GI). However, for establishments that meet certain criteria, GCE may be installed on the interior; but not just any type will do. The only GCE that is acceptable for installation on the interior is an Automatic Grease Recovery Unit (AGRU). Under no circumstances will Murfreesboro Water and Sewer Department permit the installation of passive Grease Control Equipment on the interior of any Commercial FOG Generator.

8. What is a Grease Interceptor (GI)?

A Grease Interceptor (GI) is similar to a grease trap in operation, but is much larger and is installed on the exterior, typically buried under ground. When a GI is specified, the minimum GI capacity required by Murfreesboro Water and Sewer Department is 1,000 gallons or equivalent (Schier Products GB-250).

9. What is an AGRU or Automatic Grease Recovery Unit?

An AGRU is an active type of grease trap. It is very similar in operation to a passive grease trap, except that it’s also equipped with a heating element and a skimming mechanism to physically remove the emulsified grease from the trap. AGRU’s require intervention by facility personnel on a frequent (typically daily) basis to properly maintain this type of grease control equipment.

10. Can I clean my Grease Control Equipment myself?

Yes and no. It all depends on the type of Grease Control Equipment installed. Grease Interceptors (GI’s) require service by individuals or companies that have large, specialized equipment capable of handling and legally disposing of large volumes of FOG. GI’s are typically serviced quarterly, or once every 90 days. Click here for a list of GCE Service Providers that serve the Murfreesboro area.

Automatic Grease Recovery Units (AGRU’s), on the other hand, are small by comparison and are easily maintained on a daily basis by Food Service Establishment personnel. Small volumes of recovered FOG can be recycled or disposed of with solid waste after mixing with an oil absorbent material such as cat litter.

11. Now that I know what size and type of Grease Control Equipment I need; and who needs to clean it, is there anything else I should know?

Yes. Prior to proceeding with the installation of Grease Control Equipment you should thoroughly review Murfreesboro Water and Sewer Departments FOG Management Policy (link). This will provide you with specifications regarding the installation and maintenance of all types of Grease Control Equipment.

Be advised that Grease Interceptor (GI) installations must not be backfilled prior to inspection; and Automatic Grease Recovery Units must be equipped with the manufacturer’s flow control device installed and vented on the inlet side of the unit. Please contact the FOG Program Coordinator to schedule inspections.