To use 24-Hour Town Hall, simply enter the three digit code that corresponds to the message title you want to hear. You may select up to 4 messages during one phone call. Thank you again for calling 24-Hour Town Hall; we trust you will find it useful. Please enter the three digit code of your choice now.

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 requires the Town to designate an ADA Coordinator to oversee the Town's ADA compliance efforts. Cary's Public Works Division Director serves as ADA Coordinator. The Act also requires the Town to provide individuals with disabilities equal access to Town programs, meetings, activities, and services. Modifications to Town policies and/or physical structures have been made for us to accomplish this.

For those interested in purchasing a Code of Ordinance book, the cost is $100.00 for the book plus $50.00 per fiscal year to receive the supplements to this code book.

For more information, call the Town Clerk's office at (919) 469-4011 or visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

For those interested in purchasing a Zoning Code, the cost is $70.00 plus $35.00 per fiscal year to receive the supplements to this book.

For more information, call the Town Clerk's office at (919) 469-4011 or visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

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Maps to Town Hall are available online at www.townofcary.org.

From I-40 West, take Exit 290 onto Highway 54/Chapel Hill Road. Turn left and continue west for 2 miles on Chapel Hill Road until you reach North Academy Street. DO NOT TAKE HIGHWAY 54 when it turns right. Stay on Chapel Hill Road until it intersects with North Academy Street. Turn left on to Academy Street and then turn left again at the next street, which is Ambassador Loop. The first right off of Ambassador Loop will bring you into the Town Hall parking lot.

From I-40 East, take Exit 287 onto North Harrison Avenue. Continue south on North Harrison about 3 miles to Chapel Hill Road. Turn left at the traffic light. Go one block to North Academy Street and turn right. Take the first left on to Ambassador Loop. The first right will bring you into the Town Hall parking lot.

From I-440 North, exit at Hillsborough Street and follow Hillsborough Street to Chapel Hill Road. Follow that to the intersection of North Academy Street and turn left. Take the second left, which is Ambassador Loop into the Town Hall parking lot.

From I-440 South, follow "Shopping Centers/Walnut Street" exit and turn left onto Walnut Street. Follow Walnut Street to where it intersects with Maynard Road and turn right. Go to East Chatham Street and turn left. Follow East Chatham Street to North Academy and turn right. Go across railroad tracks and turn right onto Ambassador Loop. Follow Ambassador Loop into parking lot.

From U.S. 1 and 64, take I-40 West and Airport Exit. Follow I-40 West to Exit 290. Take Exit 290 onto Highway 54/Chapel Hill Road. Turn left and continue west for 2 miles on Chapel Hill Road until you reach North Academy Street. DO NOT TAKE HIGHWAY 54 when it turns right. Stay on Chapel Hill Road until it intersects with North Academy Street. Turn left on to Academy Street and then take the second left at the next street, which is Ambassador Loop. 

Town Hall Campus is located at 316 N. Academy Street.

The Town of Cary’s Speakers Bureau demonstrates Cary’s commitment to increasing citizen awareness, understanding, and support of their local government.

Coordinated by the Public Information Officer in the Town Managers Office, the Town of Cary’s Speakers Bureau provides a pool of Town government professionals to speak in their area of expertise to businesses, civic groups, and other organizations.

Presentations can be tailored to fit most audiences, meeting lengths, and locations.

Tours of important Town facilities are also possible. There is no charge for these service.

Closing of Town Hall offices due to emergencies or inclement weather will be announced on the Town’s web site www.townofcary.org, and the Town’s government access channel, cable channel 11, as well as on local television and radio stations. Town Hall is closed on weekends and for the following holidays:

New Year's Day
Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday
Good Friday
Memorial Day
Independence Day
Labor Day
Veteran's Day
Thanksgiving Thursday and Friday
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

Normal operating hours for most Town Departments are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

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The Cary Town Council is composed of the following:

Mayor: Ernie McAlister
Mayor Pro Tem, District C: Jack Smith
District A: Jennifer Robinson
District B: Nels Roseland
District D: Marla Dorrel
At Large: Michael Joyce
At Large: Julie Robison

Elected officials in Cary strongly support the local schools. They work with the School Board to ensure that Cary's voice is heard when different school-related issues come up.

However, the Cary schools are part of the Wake County School System. An elected county-wide school board makes decisions regarding school locations and operations.

The Town of Cary has eight Boards and Commissions. Citizens who serve on these boards and commissions are volunteers who perform a community service using their skills, interests and initiatives to make a difference. Each board and commission is unique in its membership size, responsibilities, terms of office, and meeting schedules.

A listing of the boards and commissions and their schedules now follows. Unless otherwise stated, all meetings are held on the Town Hall Campus at 316 North Academy Street:

Economic Policy Commission: Meetings are held on the fourth Thursday of each month at 12 noon. The meetings take place in the upper conference room of Building B.

Information Services Advisory Board meetings are held on the fourth Thursday of each month at 5:00 p.m. The meetings take place in the front conference room of Building A.

Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Advisory Board meetings are held the first Monday of each month at 5:15 p.m.. The meetings take place at 111 James Jackson Avenue, Suite 200.

Planning and Zoning Board meetings are held the third Monday of each month. The meetings are held at 7:30 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers in Building A

Sister Cities Commission meetings are held the third Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m.. The meetings take place in the upper conference room of Building B.

Utility Board of Adjustment meetings are scheduled as needed. Public notice will be prepared at least 48 hours in advance of meetings.

Zoning Board of Adjustment meetings are held the second Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. The meetings take place in the Town Council Chambers in Building A.

The Cary Planning and Zoning Board meets the third Monday of each month. Meetings are held at 7:30 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers in Building A, Town Hall Campus, 316 North Academy Street. Their meetings are cablecast live on the Town’s government access channel, cable channel 11.

The Planning and Zoning Board makes recommendations on rezonings, subdivisions and site plans. The Board also reviews recommended changes to the Town's Comprehensive Growth Plan. The Planning and Zoning Board has 10 members, all appointed by the Town Council. If you want information about applying to the Planning and Zoning Board, please contact the Town Clerk at (919) 469-4011. That's (919) 469-4011.

Additional information about the activities of the Board is available from the Planning Department in Building B at Town Hall Campus, or by calling (919) 469-4082. That's (919) 469-4082.

If you would like information about the Planning & Zoning Board agenda enter 175, or for information about recent actions, enter 176.

Town Council meetings are regularly held on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 6:30 PM, with the exception of the months of November and December when the meetings are held on the second Thursday only. The meetings take place in the auditorium located in Building A on the Town Hall Campus, 316 North Academy Street. . Their meetings are cablecast live on the Town’s government access channel, cable channel 11.

Special meetings are held as needed.

For further information regarding Council meetings, please call the Town Clerk at (919) 469-4011. That number again is (919) 469-4011.

Cary utilizes the Election and Run-Off method of Election. The Election is in October of each odd year, with a run-off election, if necessary, in November. Council elections are held every 2 years for staggered terms, and the Mayoral election is held every 4. The terms of council members and the Mayor begin at the first Council meeting in December following their election and continue for a term of four years.

The Mayor and At-Large Council members are elected by the Cary citizens at large. The Council members representing Districts A, B, C and D are elected by citizens who reside in the same district.

The Mayor presides over Council meetings and is the recognized head of the city government for all ceremonial purposes. The Council chooses the Mayor Pro Tern from its membership by majority vote. The Mayor Pro Tern, in the absence of the Mayor, performs the duties of the Mayor and fills the vacancy of the Mayor, if it should occur, for the unexpired portion of the term.

To run for a seat on the Town Council, a person must be eligible to vote in the Town of Cary. To run for a district seat, persons also must reside in that particular district.

If you have any questions, call the Town Clerk's office at (919) 469-4011. That number again is (919) 469-4011.

The Town of Cary has made substantial changes to its annexation policies recently. Currently, the town is not accepting voluntary annexation petitions from residentially-used and/or residentially-zoned properties. However, this policy is currently under consideration, and interested parties should contact the Planning Department for more information.

Annexation petitions are available in Building B on Town Hall Campus at 318 North Academy Street. For more information, call (919) 460-4980 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. That number again is (919) 460-4980 or visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

The Town of Cary maintains a list identifying the location and number of approved apartment sites to be built in Cary. Call (919) 469-4082 for a copy of the list. That number again is (919) 469-4082.

The Cary Zoning Ordinance establishes the minimum building setbacks for development within Cary and its zoning jurisdiction. Certain types of buildings or structures may be allowed to encroach into required setbacks. Allowable encroachments include:

Open decks without a roof, patios, and detached accessory structures, such as garages and storage sheds, are allowed to be built to within five feet of the side or rear property lines, or to within five feet of a recorded buffer.

Building overhangs are allowed to encroach one and a half feet into a required setback.

Chimneys, covered porches, bay windows, and similar features are allowed to encroach three feet into a required setback.

No structures or structural encroachments are allowed into an easement or a recorded buffer.

Setbacks for the principal structure on a property vary throughout Cary, depending on which zoning district or development the property is located in. For specific information on the setbacks for residential lots or to find out if you have a buffer or easement on your property, please contact the Inspections and Permits Department at (919) 460-4981 or (919) 460-4976. For information on setback requirements for non-residential development, please call the Planning Department at (919) 469-4381 or (919) 469-4342, or visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

The Town’s Comprehensive Plan is the document that defines Cary's long-range intentions regarding the nature and direction of future development. It consists of several volumes, or elements on such topics as growth management, land use, transportation, affordable housing, open space and historic resources, community facilities, and urban design.

Adopted by the Town Council after a series of public meetings and a public hearing, the Comprehensive Plan establishes policy for evaluating choices about the physical development of Cary.

Copies of the Comprehensive Plan can be reviewed or purchased in the Planning Department in Building B on Town Hall Campus at 316 North Academy Street. The number to call for information is (919) 469-4082. That number again is (919) 469-4082.

Conditional use zoning is a special type of zoning that involves the use of zoning conditions to specify restrictions or enhancements that will apply to a particular piece of property.

Applications for conditional use rezoning requests, as well as information on existing conditionally zoned properties are available in the Planning Department, located in Building B, Town Hall Campus, 316 North Academy Street. The Department phone number is (919) 469-4080. That number again is (919) 469-4080.

Outside and adjacent to much of Cary's corporate limits is an area designated as Cary's Extraterritorial Jurisdiction or ETJ. This land is not within Cary's corporate limits; however, all development within the ETJ must meet Cary's development ordinances.

If you have a question whether an address or property is within Cary's corporate limits, please call the Planning Department at (919) 469-4080 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. That number again is (919) 496-4080.

The Planning Department has on display and available for purchase maps showing Cary's corporate limits and Extraterritorial Jurisdiction. If you would like to see these maps or purchase a copy, the Planning Department is located on Town Hall Campus at 316 North Academy Street in the upper level of Building B.

For further information regarding this or other services of the Planning Department, please consult your directory for assistance or call (919) 469-4082 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The number again is (919) 469-4082.

All family daycare homes, large daycare homes and daycare centers, as defined by the State of North Carolina, must meet the applicable requirements of the North Carolina State Building Code prior to licensure. For additional information on establishing a new daycare facility, contact the Inspections & Permits Department at (919) 469-4340.

To schedule an annual fire inspection for re licensing of a daycare facility, contact the Cary Fire Department Risk Management Division at (919) 469-4056.

The population within the Town of Cary 's corporate limits was estimated at 107,472 in January 2004..

Fire exits are designed to provide continuous and unobstructed means of getting out of a building. An exiting system in any building may include intervening aisles, doors, doorways, gates, corridors, exterior exit balconies, ramps, stairways, smoke proof enclosures, horizontal exits, exit passageways, exit courts and yards. Required exit doors must not be locked when a building is occupied.

All exiting requirements are described in the North Carolina State Building Code. If you have any questions about your exiting system, call the Inspections & Permits Department at (919) 469-4340 or the Fire Department at (919) 469-4056. Those numbers again are (919) 469-4340 and (919) 469-4056.

The Town of Cary planning staff is responsible for the planning and management of Cary's current and long range growth and development through sound urban planning practices in partnership with the citizens of Cary.

Located in building B on the Town Hall Campus, 318 North Academy Street, the Planning department can provide assistance and information regarding land use, zoning, rezoning, and conditional use zoning of property; development criteria; property annexation; sign permits; community appearance; ordinances concerning development; long range planning; the site and subdivision process, and code enforcement. Staff also periodically updates the Town's Comprehensive Growth Plan which includes the land use plan.

For further information, please call (919) 469-4082 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, or visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

Your house and business numbers should be clearly posted so that fire and police can locate you during an emergency.

The Town of Cary requires that every property owner provide and display correct address numbers as assigned by the Town of Cary. For residential property, numerals are required to be 3 inches high except that multifamily property involving more than one primary building must be 6 inches high. Commercial property must display 6 inch numbers. All numbering is required to be visible and legible from the street and must be in a contrasting color to its background.

Whenever a building is more than 50 feet from the street or when the entrance is not visible from the street, the number should be placed at a suitable location that is easily discernible from the street.

If you are unsure of your correct street address, call the Inspections & Permits Department’s Addressing Specialist at (919) 460-4976.

Housing complaints are investigated by the Inspections & Permits Department. Complaints are initiated by calling (919) 469-4376 or by dropping by our office in Town Hall building b, 318 North Academy Street.

The complaint is investigated as to whether the property is in violation of the Town of Cary’s Minimum Housing Standards or is unsafe per the North Carolina State Building Code.

If you have questions, please call (919) 469-4376 for assistance in any minimum housing related matter. That number again is (919) 469-4376.

Both state and local laws define a Junked Motor Vehicle as one that does not display a current legal license plate, and:

Does not operate under its own power; or
Is partially dismantled or wrecked; or
Is more than 5 years old and appears to be worth less than $100.

A Nuisance Vehicle is or has the potential for becoming a health or safety hazard to the general public. Such a vehicle may be up on blocks, have exposed jagged metal parts or broken glass, or may provide a haven for pests such as rats or snakes.

If you wish to report a suspected violation of the Junk Car Ordinance and the vehicle is on a public street, please contact the Cary Police Department at (919) 469-4012.

If you wish to report a suspected violation of the Junk Car Ordinance and the vehicle is located on private property, please contact Planning Department at (919) 469-4082 or (919) 469-4044. Those numbers again are (919) 469-4082 or (919) 469-4044.

Maximum occupant capacity must be posted by the owner of a building or premise that accommodates any function classified as an assembly occupancy. Examples of functions covered by this requirement include, but are not limited to, restaurants, theaters, game rooms, auditoriums, cafeterias, meeting room and gymnasiums.

Occupancy placards are issued by the Inspections & Permits Department.

For more information or to schedule an inspection, please contact the Inspections & Permits Department at (919) 469-4340 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. The number again is (919) 469-4340.

A property plat shows the boundaries and easements of your property as recorded with the Wake County Register of Deeds. If you are planning any changes to recorded property lines or easements on your property within the Town of Cary, you need to submit a new property plat for approval and the appropriate review fee to the Town's Inspections and Permits . The property plat must be prepared by a registered surveyor and will be recorded with Wake County Register of Deeds. For additional information please call the Inspections and Permits Department at (919) 460-4976. That's (919) 460-4976.

Are you planning an addition or other kind of exterior structural improvement to your home in Cary? When you apply for a building permit, you will be required to submit a plot plan showing these improvements to the Town for approval.

If you are missing the plot plan to your Cary property, you can call the Wake County Register of Deeds at (919) 856-5495 for information. That number again is (919) 856-5495.

Frequently requested publications are available for purchase in the Planning Department. Zoning maps at a scale of one inch equaling 2,000 feet are available for $5.00 per copy.

Microfilm copies of site and subdivision plans on file with the Department are available at 36 cents per copy. Xerox copies of plans on bond paper range from 36 cents to $1.08 per copy depending on required paper size. Standard and legal size Xerox copies are $0.03 per copy.

Please call the Planning Department regarding the availability of the following publications: The Town of Cary Land Use Plan is 25 dollars. The Growth Management Plan, Affordable Housing Plan, and the Town Center Area Plan are all 8 dollars each., These and many other reports are available free of charge from our website at www.townofcary.org.

If you would like to obtain a copy of the Town of Cary's Code of Ordinances, please contact the office of the Town Clerk at (919) 469-4011. That number again is (919) 469-4011.

For further information regarding these or other services of the Planning Department, check our website at www.townofcary.org or please call (919) 469-4082 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The number again is (919) 469-4082.

The Planning Department is located on Town Hall Campus at 318 North Academy Street in the lower level of Building B.

A rezoning is required when a property owner proposes to use his land for purposes other than those permitted by the current zoning classification. The request is reviewed by the Planning Department staff and other Town agencies. The Planning and Zoning Board makes a recommendation on each request with the final determination being made by the Town Council.

First, a meeting should be scheduled with a Planning Department staff member to discuss the proposal in detail and to receive staff suggestions on how to proceed. This may be done by calling the Planning Department at (919) 469-4085 or (919) 469-4080.

The applicant must submit a completed rezoning application, maps, and the processing fee.

The application is reviewed by the Planning Department. The Department then notifies adjacent property owners, Town departments, the Planning and Zoning Board and the Town Council of each request. The time, date and place of the public hearing is advertised in local newspapers. A sign is posted at the potential site indicating existing and proposed zoning.

The Town Council considers each request at a joint public hearing with the Planning and Zoning Board. The applicant and the general public may present information to the Town Council which forwards the request to the Planning and Zoning Board for review. At the Planning and Zoning Board meeting, the Planning Department submits a recommendation for each request. The Planning and Zoning Board will vote and send its decision to the Town Council.

After the Planning and Zoning Board makes a recommendation, rezoning requests are heard by the Town Council at another meeting.

The Town Council takes final action on the request. The request may be approved as submitted; approved with conditions; denied or deferred to a later meeting. If the request is approved, the property owner may proceed with development plans, taking into consideration any conditions which may have been imposed by the Council.

If you have further questions about the rezoning process, call the Planning Department at (919) 469-4080 or (919) 469-4085. Upon request, a brochure describing the rezoning process will be mailed to you.

Adjacent property owners can submit written protest petitions to a rezoning request. Adjacent property owners are those who own 20 percent or more either:

• of the area of the lots included in a proposed amendment;
• of those lots immediately adjacent or on either side extending 100 feet there from; or
• of those lots directly opposite extending 100 feet from the street frontage of the rezoning.

If you would like a copy of the protest petition form, call the Town Clerk at (919) 469-4011. That number again is (919) 469-4011.

The Cary Sign Ordinance prohibits certain types of signs and their locations. These restrictions include the following:

No signs are allowed on telephone or power poles. No signs are allowed in the right of way, except for official government signs or notifications.

Banners are prohibited except for the grand opening of a business or a noncommercial special event only and then by a permit valid for thirty days.

Neon signs are not allowed on the outside of a building or in windows where the signs are directed to the public outside the building.

Portable, temporary signs are prohibited, including off premise realtor and "For Sale By Owner" signs. Signs advertising a property for sale which are located on that property are allowed.

Yard sales are an allowed exception. If you are planning a yard or garage sale, you may post one sign on your property and a second sign on a different property, such as at the entrance to your subdivision or at the nearest major intersection but do not place any sign in the right of way (either public or private, or on common property). The Sign Ordinance does prohibit yard or garage sale signs from being posted on telephone or power poles and it does require such signs to be removed after the event by the persons holding the sale.

For information on other residential and nonresidential sign requirements or to report a suspected sign violation, please call (919) 469-4342 or (919) 469-4044.

The Sign Ordinance also establishes certain allowances for permanent signs on all COMMERCIAL SITES IN Town and within the Town’s zoning jurisdiction. A single tenant business (that is, one business in a building on a lot by itself) has a different set of sign criteria than a business located in a shopping center or other multi-tenant site. For specific information on sign allowances for a particular site and permit applications, please contact the Planning Department at (919) 469-4082 or visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

Non-residential site plans can be approved by the Planning Departments Plan Review & Design Division upon recommendation of the Development Review Committee if all requirements in the Unified Development Ordinance have been met. Non-residential site plans that seek allowable reductions from the requirements of the Unified Development Ordinance must be approved by the Town Council.

Residential Subdivisions may be approved by the Town Council if all ordinance requirements are met.

Review schedules are available on the Town’s web site.

The Planning Department can provide you with site plan applications, schedules and checklists. For more information call (919) 469-4082 or visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

Subdivisions are approved by the Town Council.

The process for subdivision approval begins as a Town Council submittal. The plans are reviewed by the Development Review Committee. After review, subdivision plans are forwarded to the Planning and Zoning Board and the Town Council This process usually takes 4-5 months. Subdivisions may be approved in less of a time frame if all conditions of the Land Development Ordinance have been met and the Town Council agrees.

The Planning Department can provide subdivision applications and approval schedules. If you would like more information regarding the subdivision approval process, call (919) 469-4082. That number again is (919) 469-4082.

Most existing residential subdivisions, planned unit developments, multi-family development, and nonresidential development within Cary's corporate limits and Extraterritorial Jurisdiction have site or subdivision plans recorded on microfilm at the Town of Cary Planning Department. To inquire whether a site or subdivision plan is on file, please contact the Planning Department 's Plans Facilitator at (919) 319-4583 from 7:45 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Monday through Friday. That number again is (919) 319-4583.

If you would like to obtain a copy of a particular plan in the microfilm files or to review a plan on file during business hours, the Planning Department is located on Town Hall Campus at 318 North Academy Street in the lower level of Building B. A fee of $4.00 per plan sheet copy will be charged by the Town of Cary for copying services.

All private residential swimming pools in Cary are required to have a fence around either the pool area or the entire back yard for security. This requirement applies to both in-ground and above-ground pools having a depth greater than 18".

This fence is to meet the following requirements:

Permits are not required for swimming pool fences but a permit is needed for Electrical bonding on in-ground pools and for new decks built in the pool vicinity. A plot plan must be reviewed and approved by the Planning Department. For further information, please call (919) 469-4082 or (919) 469-4044. For Information on the permit process, please call Inspections and Permits at (919) 469-4340.

A Variance is requested by a citizen in a specific case where the citizen thinks that the strict enforcement of a zoning code requirement would cause an unnecessary or unusual hardship.

A Special Use Permit allows a land use not normally permitted in a zoning district. These uses are listed in the zoning ordinance and can be approved by either the Town Council (for Major Special Uses) or the Zoning Board of Adjustment (for Minor Special Uses) after meeting specific conditions.

Requests for Variances and Special Use Permits are heard by the Cary Zoning Board of Adjustment.

Citizens can request an Administrative Appeal with the Zoning Board of Adjustment to review a particular decision or ruling made by Town Staff in interpreting a section of the zoning code. The Board may reverse, modify, or uphold the Town's decision.

State and local laws require that three types of public notification take place for each application - a legal ad in a local newspaper, a sign posted in the front yard of the subject property, and notification letters mailed to all property owners within 100 feet of the subject property. These notification are intended to advise all interested parties of the application request, as well as the date, time, and place of the hearing so that all interested parties have an opportunity to be heard.

The Board of Adjustment meets at 7:30 p.m. on the second Monday of each month in the Auditorium at Cary Town Hall, 316 N. Academy Street.

For information on filing an application before the Board, please contact the Planning Department at (919) 469-4082.

Wake County Parcel Identification Numbers are required on all Planning Department permits and applications. To obtain the most current parcel identification number for a particular property or tract, please contact Wake County Geographic Information Services at (919) 856-6370 or the Wake County Tax Assessor's Office at (919) 856-5400. Again, those numbers are (919) 865-6370 and (919) 856-5400.

The Planning Department can assist you with information regarding Town of Cary ordinance requirements concerning zoning, land use, and development. For additional information, please contact the Planning Department, or consult your directory for further assistance. You may call the Planning Department at (919) 469-4082 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The number again is (919) 469-4082.

The Planning Department is located on Town Hall Campus at 318 North Academy Street in the upper level of Building B.

If you would like to obtain a copy of the Town of Cary's Code of Ordinances please contact the office of the Town Clerk at (919) 69-4011, or review the Code online at www.townofcary.org.

Building a house in Cary does not have to be complicated.

Although homeowners may serve as the contractor for their own home, a State Registered contractor is recommended to coordinate all phases and types of construction. A building permit must be obtained from the Inspections & Permits Department located in Building B on Town Hall Campus. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM. Before issuing a building permit, a completed application packet along with two sets of plans must be submitted for review and approval. Please allow 4 working days for this process.

After approval, permits for building, plumbing, mechanical and electrical systems of a new dwelling may be issued.

Inspections are required on all permits issued by the Inspections & Permits Department . After all inspections have been completed and finalized, a Certificate of Occupancy will be issued so that the new dwelling may be occupied.

For more information on building a house, please call the Residential Plans Examiner at (919) 469-4384 That number again, (919) 469-4384 . Or come by the office and request our brochure entitled "Building or Buying a New Home."

BUILDING INSPECTIONS

Building inspections are required after obtaining building, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical permits. There are five basic types of building inspections required in new construction: footing inspections, foundation inspections, framing inspections, insulation inspections, and final inspections. The electrical, plumbing, and mechanical basic inspections consist of rough-in inspections and a final Inspections. There are other types of required inspections, depending on the type of construction.

Inspections may be scheduled by calling the Inspections & Permits Department’s automated scheduling system, which is available 24 hours a day at (919) 462-3800.

A building permit is required for the construction of decks and fireplaces. The minimum permit fee is $ $60 or 15 cents per square foot.

The permit fee for constructing a fireplace is included in the cost of building a new home. A pre-fab fireplace must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications, and it must be approved by a nationally recognized testing agency.

A masonry fireplace must be constructed in accordance with North Carolina State Building Code requirements.

For other types of residential construction, such as decks and additions, two complete sets of plans must be submitted to the Inspections & Permits Department to identify such items as typical wall sections, foundation plan, and floor elevations. All existing and proposed structures must also be shown on a plot plan or survey for the property.

Other questions involving this type of construction may be answered by calling the residential plans examiners at (919) 469-4384. That number again, (919) 469-4384.

A permit is required for commercial or residential demolition. Prior to obtaining the permit, you must have a written release from the utility company that services have been disconnected and you must have an asbestos exemption certificate where applicable.

The fee is $50 per trade for demolition permits. For more information please contact the Inspections & Permits Department at (919) 469-4340. That number again, (919) 469-4340. If you are planning to demolish a building in downtown Cary, please contact the Planning Department at (919) 469-4342. The Zoning Code requires that the Town Council be advised of a pending demolition in certain parts of downtown Cary prior to the release of the demolition permit.

When replacing or adding to a residential driveway and apron, a permit is required for the work being done in the public right-of-way and may be obtained from the Inspections & Permits Department. The Inspections & Permits Department does not, however, oversee work performed in the right-of-way involving curb, gutters and storm drains. For more information please call the Engineering Department at (919) 469-4030. That number again is (919) 469-4030.

New residential driveway permits are issued as part of the building permit by the Inspections & Permits Department. The fee is $50. For more information please contact the Inspections & Permits Department at (919) 469-4043 or the Engineering Department at (919) 469-4030. Those numbers again are (919) 469-4043 or (919) 469-4030.

Electrical permits are required for the installation of new electrical service equipment, existing service relocation, service increases, as well as interior and exterior fixed appliances and equipment connections.

A minimum electrical permit fee is $50.

An electrical permit or fee information may be obtained at the Inspections & Permits Department located in Building B on Town Hall Campus; or by calling (919) 469-4340. That number again is (919) 469-4340.

Building permits are required to erect, enlarge, alter, remove, demolish or repair a structure in the Town of Cary. This includes everything from certain storage sheds, decks and garages to commercial construction, signs and additions.

Electrical permits are required for the installation of new electrical service equipment, existing service relocations, service increases, as well as fixed appliances and equipment connections.

Mechanical permits are required for the replacement, repair or alteration of mechanical systems in structures. This includes gas lines, gas logs, gas lights, gas grills, propane tanks, and associated piping for flammable liquids.

Plumbing permits are required for all plumbing work including water service, drains, water mains, sewage disposal systems, and related fixtures and appliances.

Permit fees vary according to the type of construction or work permitted. The minimum permit fee is $50. The basic permit fee for all new residential construction is $185.00 or 15 cents per square foot for all area under roof. The basic permit for commercial construction is $185.00 or 10 cents per square foot. Building permit fees will vary for other structures such as signs, tents, decks and mobile homes.

For new residential construction, the minimum permit fee for an electrical, plumbing, or mechanical permit is $50.00 or 4 cents per square foot. For new commercial construction, the minimum permit fee for an electrical, plumbing, or mechanical permit is $60.00 or 3 cents per square foot.

When there is a new tenant and/or owner moving into a previously occupied commercial space, a permit is required. A fee of $$185.00 or 10 cents per square foot, whichever is greater, is charged for the building permit, and $$60.00 or 3 cents per square foot each for an electrical, plumbing or mechanical permit.

Requests for inspections may be made after the permit has been issued.

For further information, call the Inspections & Permits Department, Monday through Friday between Sam and 5pm, at (919) 469-4340. That number again is (919) 469-4340.

A mobile home can be located in an existing mobile home park, if it has a building permit from the Inspections & Permits Department. Mobile homes also are allowed on a temporary basis, from 4 to 8 years, on property which is zoned R-30 or R-40, but then only with an approved Minor Special Use Permit from the Zoning Board of Adjustment, an approved well and septic tank permit from the Wake County Health Department, and a building permit from the Inspections & Permits Department.

The base fee for a mobile home permit is $90, which covers the cost of the building, electrical and plumbing portions of the permit. If the mobile home has central air conditioning, a new furnace, or heat pump, a mechanical permit is required. This costs an additional $30.

For information on applying for a Minor Special Use Permit or to see if a site is properly zoned for a mobile home, you may contact the Planning Department at (919) 469-4342. For information on applying for a building permit for a mobile home, you may contact the Inspections & Permits Department at (919) 469-4340. If you need information on applying for a well and septic tank permit, please contact the Wake County Health Department at (919) 250-4350.

The Town of Cary's Planning Department, located in Building B on Town Hall Campus, handles most site plans and site inspection work. To occupy new commercial premises in the Town of Cary, you have to apply for a building permit in the Inspections & Permits Department The Inspections & Permits Department and the Fire Department perform most of the actual inspections.

For more information, call the at (919) 469-4082 That number again is (919)469-4082.

A Special Use Permit must be reviewed by the Board of Adjustment or Town Council. Uses which require special use permits are outlined in the Cary Zoning Ordinance.

A major special use permit involves a public hearing and is reviewed by the Town Council. A minor special use permit involves a hearing and is reviewed by the Board of Adjustment, unless the minor special use is associated with the site plan in which case the special use becomes a major special use and would be reviewed by the Town Council. The approval process for a major special associated with a site plan usually takes 4 ½ to 5 months. Otherwise it takes 30 to 60 days to obtain a special use permit.

An example of a major special use would be large day care homes.

Special use permit applications can be obtained in the Planning Department, located in Town Hall Building B. The phone number is (919) 469-4082. That number again is (919) 469-4082.

For additional information on the special use permit process, contact the Planning Department at (919) 469-4082.

A building permit is required to build or install a storage shed over 120 square feet in area. To obtain a building permit, please come to the Inspections & Permits Department on Town Hall Campus, and bring a site plan showing lot size, all existing buildings and their distances from the property lines, the location of the proposed construction, as well as two sets of building plans to include with a permit application.

The fee for a storage shed permit is $60.00 or 15 cents per square foot.

Storage sheds are not allowed in a front setback and all storage sheds, regardless of size, must meet setback requirements.

If you have any questions regarding the construction of a storage shed, please call the Inspections & Permits Department at (919) 469-4384. If you have questions pertaining to setback requirements or if you wish to report a violation, please call the Planning Department at (919) 469-4342. Again, for information on storage shed permits please call (919) 469-4384; for setback information, please call (919) 469-4342.

Construction inspection results are available 24 hours a day on the Town's interactive voice response system. Inspections results are updated throughout the day. Call (919) 462-3800 to use the system and follow the instructions given by the operator. You will need your permit number in order to access any information.

The automated system reads back the last three inspection results, starting with the most recent. Then it reports the type of inspection; the result; whether approved or disapproved; and the date inspected.

You also are able to hear the results of previous inspections, or inspections on other permits by following the instructions. Call (919) 462-3800 and follow the instructions given by the operator.

All development plans and subsequent fees are submitted to the Inspections & Permits Office, located in Building B of Town Hall. This includes building permits, site plans, subdivision plans, sign permits, variances and rezoning requests. Most submittals require a fee that must be paid to the Permit Office when applying.

If you have questions about submittals and fees, call the Inspections & Permits Department at (919) 469-4340. That number again is (919) 469-4340.

The Cary Police Department must be notified at least 7 days in advance if a neighborhood wants permission to close or block a street for the purpose of having a gathering of neighbors. Since several Town ordinances must be complied with, it is highly recommended that neighborhoods call several weeks in advance to be sure plans are acceptable. There are some streets in Cary that cannot be blocked.

A representative from the neighborhood should prepare a short letter stating the date, time, location and other pertinent information concerning the party. Each resident within the blocked section of the street must sign the letter indicating their compliance to cease driving their vehicles in the blocked area on the date and time listed. This letter must be presented or mailed to the Police Department at least 7 days in advance of the party.

For more information on Block party permits, call the Cary Police Department at (919) 469-4322. For information on Special Permits call (919) 460-4901. Both these numbers can be contacted Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

Town ordinance does not require bicycles to be licensed. However, there are numerous ways that you can mark your bicycle for identification purposes. Engraving your North Carolina driver's license number onto the frame will help the police trace the bicycle back to you if it is lost or stolen.

The Cary Police Department requires bicyclists under the age of sixteen to wear a safety helmet. For more information on bicycle identification or safety, call the Cary Police Department at (919) 469-4324. That number again is (919) 469-4324.

If you are a new resident of North Carolina, you must apply for a State Driver's License, obtain a new title and registration for your vehicle and obtain State license plate within 30 days after you move here.

You can get a driver's license at a local branch of the Department of Motor Vehicles. The branch in Cary is located in the municipal parking lot between North Academy Street and Harrison Avenue in downtown Cary. It shares space with the Cary Depot and is directly across the railroad tracks from the Cary Chamber of Commerce. The telephone number is (919) 468-0319. Again, the telephone number is (919) 468-0319.

To get a NC driver's license you need to have proof of identity or an out-of-state license and proof of liability insurance, and also have a social security card with you at the DMV.

Title and registration plates may be processed at an outlet located in South Hills Mall on Buck Jones Road in Cary. The telephone number is (919) 469-1444. The number again is (919) 469-1444.

To apply for a "Going out of Business Sale License", as required by the North Carolina General Statute, please contact the Town Clerk's office at (919) 469-4011. Again, that number is (919) 469-4011.

The Town of Cary requires that any person or company doing business by maintaining a business location within the Town; by soliciting business within the Town; or by picking up or delivering merchandise or performing services is required to get a Privilege license.

Privilege licenses are required before a business starts operation and are renewable each year by June 30. The amount to be paid depends on the type of business.

The Finance Department is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Please call 
(919) 460-4952 for further information or visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

Any business operating out of a home must have a Privilege License and be in compliance with the Ordinance for Home Occupation in the Town Cary.

The main goal of the Home Occupation Ordinance is to insure that the residential appearance and enjoyment of the neighborhood are not affected by the operation of a business in a private home. To that end, the Ordinance limits how much of the home can be used for a business and also prohibits, among other things, the outside storage and display of goods related to the business, signs in the yard, retail or wholesale sales taking place at the home, and the creation of excessive noise, smoke, electrical interference, or other types of disruptions.

In order to apply for a position with the Town you must fill out and sign a Town of Cary Application and turn it into the Human Resources Department no later than 5 p.m. on the vacancy closing date. Applications can be downloaded from the website or obtained from the Human Resources Department at 100 Charlie Gaddy Lane, behind the Cary Library. A complete application may be supplemented with a resume. Employment applications are accepted for announced vacancies only. If you are interested in a position that is not on our Job Opportunities List you can complete an Employment Interest Card. This will allow us to notify you if the position becomes available within the next six months. Employment Interest Cards are available on our website or at the Human Resources Department.

Following the vacancy closing date , applications are screened. Applications reflecting the most suitable background according to the advertisement are forwarded to the appropriate department.

Due to the volume of applications received, only applicants which the hiring department desires to interview will be contacted. Status of a position can be checked by listening to code # 284 or by visiting our Recruitment Status Listing on the website.

Applications are accepted in the Human Resources office Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 100 Charlie Gaddy Lane, directly behind the Cary Library.

Applicants for safety sensitive or high risk positions must agree to a drug screen.

The Town of Cary is an Equal Opportunity Employer by law and an Affirmative Action Employer by choice.

If you have specific questions concerning our application procedure, please call Human Resources at (919) 469-4070 or visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

The Town of Cary recruits candidates for employment in a wide variety of jobs. The greatest number of jobs are in the areas of clerical, labor, skilled trades, and uniformed Public Safety. Vacancies are posted in the Human Resources Department, 100 Charlie Gaddy Lane, online at www.townofcary.org and are sometimes advertised in the newspapers, professional journals and association websites. Occasionally, competition for promotional opportunities is confined to members of the Town workforce. Therefore, these opportunities are not advertised for the general public.

Applications for employment are accepted only for positions which are currently vacant and under recruitment. Applications are guaranteed consideration if received by 5 PM on the closing date.

Please call 319-4500, extension 283 for current information.

Please call 319-4500, extension 284 for current information.

Contact the North Carolina Employment Security Commission for information about unemployment eligibility or available benefits. The local branch office is located in Chatham Square Shopping Center. The telephone number is (919) 469-1406. That number again is (919) 469-1406.

APPLIANCE REMOVAL AND DISPOSAL

As a result of a State ban on appliance disposal at landfills, all "white goods" must be recycled. In Cary, you can recycle used appliances three ways: 1) Take them to the Wake County Multi-Material Facility located off of Hwy 55 south, The telephone number is (919) 387-2126; 2) Take used appliances to the Citizen Convenience Center located at 313 N. Dixon Ave., where a hauling fee will be billed within 30 days; or, 3) Solid Waste Management crews will collect the appliance at the curbside for a fee which covers collection and hauling costs. To schedule curbside appliance collection, call the Public Works & Utilities Department at (919) 469-4090. A recorded message may be left after business hours.

BULKY TRASH COLLECTION

Residents can dispose of bulky trash items free of charge at the Citizen Convenience Center, located at 313 North Dixon Avenue.

The most common examples of bulky trash items are: large televisions, furniture, grills, wheel barrows, bicycles and swing sets.

Residents also may have these materials picked up for a small fee. These items must be collected by a specially equipped truck, since they may damage the compactors on the regular garbage trucks. Call the Public Works & Utilities Department at (919) 469-4090 to arrange pick up service. That number again is (919) 469-4090. A recorded message may be left after business hours.

CHRISTMAS TREE COLLECTION

COMPOST PILES

The Town of Cary encourages all citizens to start their own backyard composting pile. Composting uses the natural process of decay to produce a rich soil additive. Leaves, grass clippings, weeds and other yard trimmings as well as kitchen scraps, except meat and dairy products, can be composted. Composting can help reduce waste by almost 20 percent, which can save valuable tax dollars and natural resources.

Compost piles must be turned occasionally to allow air circulation and to avoid odor problems. Call the Public Works & Utilities Department at (919) 469-4090 for further information about setting up a compost pile. That number again is (919) 469-4090. A recorded message may be left after business hours.

CITIZEN CONVENIENCE CENTER

Cary residents can use the Citizen Convenience Center, located at 313 North Dixon Avenue, for disposal of residential solid waste. Each customer must sign in with the attendant prior to dropping off acceptable items. Containers are available for trash, yard waste, appliances and other recyclables. No household garbage, soil, rocks, building materials or industrial waste are allowed.

The operating hours for the Citizen Convenience Center are: Monday through Wednesday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursday and Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday and holidays, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

For information about recycling collection at the Citizen Convenience Center refer to message 321.

Call the Public Works & Utilities Department at (919) 469-4090 for further information. A recorded message may be left after business hours.

CURBSIDE TRASH COLLECTION

Curbside trash is collected on the same day as household garbage. Items placed within six feet of the curb on collection day are considered curbside trash. This does not include recycling material, which is collected by a different crew.

Examples of curbside trash include lamps, telephones, small hand appliances, clothes, small throw rugs, buckets, shovels and other miscellaneous "junk" resulting from cleaning out the attic, closet or garage.

Curbside trash is smaller than bulky trash. Please refer to message 301 for information on how to dispose of bulky trash.

Used motor oil is collected at the curbside when previously scheduled and if properly prepared. Please refer to message 327 for information. Household hazardous waste is not collected by town crews. Common examples include pesticides, paint, paint thinner and antifreeze. Call the 24 hour Household Hazardous Waste number at (919) 287-8051, for more information.

Call the Public Works & Utilities Department, at (919) 469-4090, if you need to know the curbside trash collection day for your location, or if your curbside trash was not collected as scheduled. A recorded message may be left after business hours. Remember that in the event of heavy rains or snow, it’s best to bring your solid waste to the curb as backyard collection is often not possible during and immediately after severe weather.

GARBAGE COLLECTION

Household garbage typically includes waste placed in your interior household receptacles. Household garbage can be put in a maximum of four 32 gallon containers and is collected from the back yard once a week. Garbage containers should be set at an accessible ground level location, within view of the collector, by 7 a.m. on the day of collection. The containers must be tightly covered, have handles, and be free of holes or other hand hazards.

Household hazardous waste is not collected by town crews. Common examples include pesticides, paint, paint thinner and antifreeze. Refer to message 307 or call the 24 hour Household Hazardous Waste number at (919) 287-8051, for more information.

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL DISPOSAL

If you see the release of known or suspected hazardous materials, call 911. Stay away from the material and keep others away. Allow only trained personnel to respond to this type of situation.

If you have material that you wish to dispose of properly, call either the Town of Cary Public Works & Utilities Department at (919) 469-4090, that's (919) 469-4090, or the Cary Fire Department at (919) 469-4056, that's (919) 469-4056.

Refer to message 326 for more information about household hazardous waste recycling and disposal, or visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

HOLIDAY SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT AND RECYCLING COLLECTION SCHEDULES

Solid waste management and recycling collection schedules vary during a week containing a town observed holiday The complete holiday schedule is also listed on the Cary Web Site at www.townofcary.org.

Please call the Town of Cary Public Works & Utilities Department at (919) 469-4090 for more information about holiday collection schedules, recycling and waste reduction in Cary. A recorded message may be left after business hours.

YARD WASTE COLLECTION

Residential yard waste is collected on MONDAY at curbside and consists of vegetative matter resulting from yard work. All soil must be removed. Examples of yard waste include grass clippings, brush, leaves and limbs. Limbs should not be longer than 4 feet or larger than 4 inches in diameter. Yard waste should be placed at curbside by 7 a.m. on Monday, in reusable containers, paper bags, or securely tied bundles. Yard waste contained in plastic bags will not be collected. Yard waste will not be collected during a week containing a Town observed holiday.

RECYCLING ALUMINUM AND METAL CANS

Aluminum beverage cans are banned from all landfills in North Carolina. You can help the Town comply with this law by recycling aluminum cans in Cary's Curbside Recycling Program or at the Citizen Convenience Center located at 313 North Dixon Avenue.

Aluminum cans also can be taken to drop off centers located at some Wake County schools in Cary. Please rinse all cans and crush them before recycling.

Bi-metal and steel food and beverage cans also are accepted for recycling in the curbside recycling program and at the Citizen Convenience Center. Metal cans must be rinsed and lids should be placed inside the can and crushed. Labels may be left on.

CITIZEN CONVENIENCE CENTER/RECYCLING

Cary residents can drop off their recyclables at the Citizen Convenience Center located at 313 North Dixon Avenue. Each customer must sign in with the attendant prior to dropping off acceptable items. Containers are available for newspaper, glossy magazines, plastic bottles coded #1 #2, #5, #7, metal food cans, aluminum cans, clear, brown and green glass bottles, corrugated cardboard, yard waste, appliances and household trash.

Plastic bottles, metal food and aluminum cans should be rinsed, flattened and have lids removed. Yard waste should not include stumps or limbs with a cross section larger than 4 inches in diameter or length greater than 8 feet.

The operating hours of the Citizen Convenience Center are: Monday through Wednesday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday and Friday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday and holidays 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Call the Town of Cary Department of Public Work & Utilities at (919) 469-4090 for more information about recycling and waste reduction in Cary or visit us online at www.townofcary.org.  A recorded message may be left after business hours.

CORRUGATED CARDBOARD RECYCLING

Corrugated cardboard, which is banned from Wake County landfills, is accepted for recycling in Cary's Curbside Recycling Program and at the Citizen Convenience Center located at 313 North Dixon Ave.

Corrugated cardboard has three layers with a wavy interior. Cereal and pizza boxes are not accepted. All paper, plastic and tape must be removed from the cardboard and boxes should be flattened.

For curbside recycling pick up, uncontaminated corrugated cardboard should be cut or torn into pieces no larger than 2 feet by 3 feet. Unbound pieces should be placed in a box, or in the side or underneath the recycling bin.

If you have a large amount of cardboard (20 boxes or more), you can call (919) 469-4090 to schedule a special cardboard collection. Boxes will need to be flattened, with no packing material or excess tape, and set at the curbside by 7am on your previously scheduled collection day. There is no size limit for this flattened cardboard.

Call the Town of Cary Public Works & Utilities Department at (919) 469-4090 if you have additional questions about recycling and waste reduction in Cary. A recorded message can be left after business hours.

RECYCLING CURBSIDE PICKUP

The Cary Curbside Recycling Program offers a convenient way for citizens to recycle. New residents receive a curbside recycling bin when they set up an account to receive Town services. Residents who purchase existing homes should find a bin left in the home by the previous owner. If not, call (919) 469-4090 to request bin delivery. One recycling bin will be issued to each residential location. Call (919) 469-4090 for information about the cost of additional bins.

Please place your bin at curbside by 7 a.m. on your collection day. Neighborhood collection times may vary due to traffic or other conditions; however, the crews usually begin promptly at 7 a.m. Materials should be clean and not mixed with non-recyclable materials.

If your materials are properly prepared and your bin was not emptied, call (919) 469-4090 to report the miss. If you are physically unable to carry the container to the curb, call (919) 469-4090 to request special pick up arrangements.

The following items are accepted in the curbside program:

• Clear, green and brown glass bottles and jars that have been emptied, rinsed and lids removed.
• Aluminum, bi-metal and steel food and beverage cans that have been rinsed, lids placed inside the can, and flattened. Aluminum foil and pie plates also are accepted.
• Plastic bottles coded #1, #2, #5 and #7 that have been rinsed, flattened and lids removed. A bottle is defined as having a neck smaller than the base.
• Newspapers, including any inserts, that are clean, dry and unbound. Please hook the bungee cord to keep the materials from blowing away.
• Clean, glossy magazines and catalogs that are placed in paper grocery bags, or another separate container, and left beside the recycling bin at curbside. Please remember that the interior pages of magazines and catalogs also must be glossy to be collected.
• Clean corrugated cardboard that has three layers with wavy interior. Cereal type boxes and pizza boxes are NOT accepted. All paper, plastic and tape must be removed. Boxes should be flattened and cut into pieces no larger than 2 feet by 3 feet. Place unbound pieces in a box, in the side or underneath the recycling bin.
• Milk and juice cartons and other gable top cartons are accepted. Cartons with a plastic pour spout are acceptable and the plastic does not need to be removed. Please rinse and flatten the cartons.
• Drink boxes, or aseptic boxes, can be recycled at curbside. Aseptic boxes are rectangular shaped and often contain fruit juices, punch drinks, soy milk or chocolate drinks. All milk cartons, juice cartons and drink boxes must be rinsed and flattened. Straws must be removed.
• Plastic 6-pack rings are accepted and must be torn or cut. Placed them under other recyclables, so they will not blow away.

Call the Town of Cary Public Works & Utility Department at (919) 469-4090 if you have questions about recycling and waste reduction in Cary. A recorded message may be left after business hours. And as always, visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

GENERAL RECYCLING PROGRAM INFORMATION

Cary Recycles is a program offered to citizens to make recycling easy and convenient. The program includes residential curbside collection and a Citizen Convenience Center for recyclable material drop off. Refer to message 323, Recycling Curbside Pick Up, for more information about the materials accepted in the curbside recycling program. Refer to message 321, Citizen Convenience Center/Recycling, for more information about the Town's Citizen Convenience Center. Other services provided by the Town include yardwaste, used motor oil, appliance, and Christmas tree collection. For more information about yardwaste collection, refer to message 309; for used motor oil information, refer to message 327; for appliance recycling and disposal information, refer to message 300; and for Christmas tree collection information, refer to message 302. Please call the Town of Cary Public Works & Utility Department at (919) 469-4090 for more information about recycling and waste reduction in Cary. That number again is (919) 469-4090. A recorded message may be left after business hours. And as always, visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

GLASS RECYCLING

Recycling glass reduces air emissions, conserves energy and helps lengthen the life of our landfills. All clear, green and brown glass bottles and jars can be recycled in Cary's Curbside Recycling Program and at the Citizens Convenience Center at 313 N. Dixon Avenue. Glass can also be recycled at most Wake County elementary, middle, and high school drop off centers in Cary.

For safety reasons, collected glass must be unbroken, rinsed and have lids removed. Labels may be left on. No window glass, picture frames, light bulbs, crystal, ceramic or cookware will be accepted.

Call the Town of Cary Public Works & Utility Department at (919) 469-4090 if you have additional questions about recycling and waste reduction in Cary. A recorded message can be left after business hours. And as always, visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE RECYCLING AND DISPOSAL

Although the Town of Cary does not collect household hazardous waste, proper disposal of this material is critical to maintaining a clean and healthy environment. Household hazardous waste, which includes such items as pesticides, paint products, batteries, pool chemicals and antifreeze, can be taken to the Wake County Hazardous Waste Collection Center.

The Center is located in Raleigh, off Durant Road, at the North Wake County Landfill. The Center is open on the first and third Saturday of each month, from 7 a.m. until 4 p.m. Call the 24 hour Household Hazardous Waste number at (919) 287-8051, for more information.

For information on Used Motor Oil recycling for citizens, please refer to message 327.

Call the Town of Cary Public Works & Utility Department at (919) 469-4090 if you have questions about recycling and waste reduction in Cary. A recorded message can be left after business hours. And as always, visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

RECYCLING - MOTOR OIL

Used motor oil is collected and recycled free of charge by a Town of Cary solid waste crew. Call the Public Works & Utility Department at (919) 469-4090 to schedule a pick up. Motor oil must be placed at the curbside in a closed container labeled "USED MOTOR OIL." Oil must NOT be mixed with any other substance.

Call the Town of Cary Public Works & Utility Department at (919) 469-4090 if you have additional questions about recycling and waste reduction in Cary. A recorded message can be left after business hours. And as always, visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

NEWSPAPER RECYCLING

Recycling a single daily newspaper saves the energy equivalent of running a 75Watt light bulb for 24 hours. Newspaper recycling in Cary is easy and convenient.

Newspaper is accepted in the curbside recycling program and at the Citizen Convenience Center. The material must be clean, dry and unbound with any newspaper inserts included. For curbside recycling, please place newspapers on top of other items in the bin and fasten the bungee cord to keep newspaper from blowing away. If bungee cord or clip is broken, you can call (919) 469-4090 for a replacement.

Call the Town of Cary Public Works & Utility Department at (919) 469-4090 if you have additional questions about recycling and waste reduction in Cary. A recorded message may be left after business hours. And as always, visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

RECYCLING PLASTICS

The plastic industry has developed a broad coding system to identify the various types of plastics that are made. Plastic resin types are identified with a number inside the recycling symbol. Despite these codes, there is still some variation within each coded category of plastics. For example, plastics that are manufactured into a bottle shape actually have different properties than plastics manufactured into tub-shaped containers, and they cannot be recycled together.

Like other communities, Cary is only able to collect those types that we are able to market for re-manufacture. Currently, plastic bottles coded #1, #2, #5, and #7 are collected in Cary's Curbside Recycling Program. Only plastic bottles, such as milk jugs, soda bottles, laundry detergent bottles, shampoo bottles, etc. -- are accepted. A bottle has a neck smaller than the base. Plastic butter, yogurt and other tub-shaped containers are NOT accepted. All plastic bottles must be rinsed, flattened and have all lids removed.

In addition, plastic 6-pack rings are accepted in Cary's curbside recycling program. Rings should be torn or cut and placed under other recyclables, so they will not blow away.

The Citizen Convenience Center, located at 313 North Dixon Avenue, also collects #1 #2, #5, and #7 plastic bottles.

Call the Town of Cary Public Works & Utility Department at (919) 469-4090 if you have additional questions about recycling and waste reduction in Cary. That number again is (919) 469-4090. A recorded message can be left after business hours. And as always, visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

AUTOMATED DRAFT PAYMENT SYSTEM

There is a way to pay your Town of Cary utility bill without ever writing a check, buying postage stamps, or driving to the nearest utility payment drop box. Now, you can have your utility bill payment automatically withdrawn from your checking account each month using our bank draft program. And, it's free of charge.

With our bank draft program, your utility bill is always paid on time without any of the inconveniences we've mentioned. Your bill, reflecting the amount of the payment to be withdrawn from your checking or savings account, is mailed to you in advance of the actual fund withdrawal. This gives you plenty of time to balance your check book or raise any concerns regarding the bill prior to payment.

For more information about our bank draft program, please call us at (919) 469-4050 or visit us online at www.townofcary.org. We can mail you an application or, if you prefer, visit the Finance Department at 316 North Academy St. Our office hours are Monday through Friday 8 am to 5 pm. That number again is (919) 469-4050.

WATER BILL PAYMENTS

Utility bills may be paid by mail, in person or by phone. We also offer Automatic Bank Draft Service. You can mail payments to the Town of Cary Collections Dept., PO Box 8049 Cary NC 27512. That mailing address again is Collections Dept, PO Box 8049, Cary NC 27512. You may also call the collections department at (919) 469-4052 to pay for your bill by credit card. We accept Visa and MasterCard.

If you wish to pay in person, you may do so at the collection window in the Finance Department, which is located in Building A on Town Hall Campus at 3 16 North Academy Street, or you may use the drop located in the main parking lot of Town Hall. For additional directions on the location of Town Hall you may call (919) 469-4052, or enter 153.

UTILITY CONNECTION PROCEDURE

If you are a new resident in Cary and need water, sewer, or solid waste and recycling services you may apply in the Finance Department at Town Hall, located at 316 North Academy Street, Building A or by calling (919) 469-4050 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p. m.

New customers must provide the Finance Department with a letter of credit from a utility company where they have established a good payment history for 12 consecutive months or pay a required deposit amount. For residential accounts and most commercial accounts the required deposit is $60.00 per meter. For further information you may call (919) 469-4050 or visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

CUSTOMER SERVICE INFORMATION

The Town of Cary provides water, sewer and solid waste services to most residences and businesses in the community. Solid waste services include weekly backyard garbage pickup, weekly recycling and yard waste removal. If you wish to start, stop or transfer service, or have questions about your town services regarding meter readings, billings or payments, we invite you to visit with a customer service representative at the Finance office located in Town Hall at 316 North Academy Street, Building A. If you prefer you may call during the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Our telephone number is (919) 469-4050. And as always, visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

DELINQUENT UTILITY BILLS

Utility bills are payable upon receipt and are due 25 days from the billing date. The due date is printed on the bill. If payment has not been received in our office by the due date a one- percent penalty is added to the balance and a delinquency notice is mailed advising the customer of the total amount due and the cutoff date. The due date applies to current charges only. A balance forward amount is considered past due.

Accounts not paid by the date on the delinquency notice are subject to termination of service.

If you have a problem with the payment of your bill and would like more information on payment arrangements, you may come to the Collection office located at Town Hall Building A at 316 North Academy Street or call (919) 469-4052. That number again is (919) 469-4052.

HIGH WATER USAGE

If your water usage is higher than normal on your utility bill, you should consider the following circumstances: Have you watered your lawn? Has the number of people in your household increased? Are you experiencing any plumbing problems, such as a toilet that continues to run after flushing, a leaky faucet, a broken water line, or a water heater that is in need of repair or replacement? Do you frequently wash your cars at home?

You also should check your yard for water spots that could be coming from a break in the water line that runs from the water meter to your house. Silent toilet leaks can be checked by pouring food coloring into the tank of the toilet and observing the water in the bowl. If the coloring flows from the tank into the bowl without flushing, your toilet is in need of repair. Check all plumbing for possible leaks in your crawl space.

Check the service period on your bill. If the number of days for which you are being billed exceeded the average 30-day billing period, the extra usage for the additional days is reflected on your bill.

If none of these considerations apply, you can call the Town's Customer Accounting Services at 469-4050. We can help you by verifying your meter reading for accuracy and checking the leak indicator on your meter. If a leak is determined by the meter check, it will be the customer's responsibility to locate the problem and make all necessary repairs.

If you need more information, call Customer Accounting Services at (919) 469-4050. Again, that number is (919) 469-4050.

UTILITY PAYMENT ARRANGEMENTS

Utility bills are mailed from the Finance Department approximately every 30 days. The due date printed on the bill applies only to current charges and does not extend the due date for any balance forward. If you are unable to pay current charges by the due date noted on your bill, you may call the Collection office at (919) 469-4052, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to make payment arrangements. Please have your account number ready when calling.

Failure to pay your bill or make satisfactory payment arrangements will result in disconnection of service.

RECONNECTING UTILITY SERVICE

If your utility service has been disconnected and you feel this was in error, call the collection office at (919) 469-4052 from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.  After 5 p.m. call (919) 469-4012.

If utility service has been disconnected for nonpayment, you may have service reinstated by 5 PM that day by paying the past due amount of the bill plus the nonpayment of $33.00. Payment must be made at the payment window in the Finance Department in Town Hall Building A. For more information call the collection office at (919) 469-4052 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Service may be reinstated after 5 p.m. by calling (919) 469-4012. Service reinstated after regular business hours is subject to a $48.00 nonpayment fee. If service is reinstated after 5 p.m. the nonpayment fee and the full amount of the bill must be paid at the collection office in Town Hall Building A prior to noon the following day. If payment is not received in our office by this time service will be disconnected again and will not be reinstated until full payment including the nonpayment fee has been received. Payments may be left in our drop box in the main parking lot after hours and prior to 8 a.m. if you are unable to pay in person before noon.

Meter readers or other Town field personnel are not allowed to accept payment from customers for any reason.

Again you may call (919) 469-4052 to have service reinstated during regular business hours and (919) 469-4012 to have service reconnected after 5 p.m. Any payment questions should be directed to (919) 469-4052 during the hours of 
8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

UTILITY SECURITY DEPOSIT

New utility customers in Cary must provide the Finance department with a letter of credit from a utility company where they have recently established a good payment history for 12 consecutive months or pay a required deposit amount. For residential accounts and most commercial accounts the required deposit is $60.00 per meter.

Customers who have no service disconnection's for nonpayment, no late pay penalties and no bad check charge within twelve months may request a refund of their deposit. The deposit will be applied to the customer's account.

When an account is closed any deposit not previously refunded is applied to the final balance. If the final balance does not exceed the amount of deposit, the net amount between the balance and the deposit will be refunded by check. Customers must give a forwarding address on closed accounts to receive the net deposit refund. For additional information call the Finance Department between 
8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at (919) 469-4050. The number again is (919) 469-4050.

STARTING/STOPPING/TRANSFERRING SERVICES

The Town of Cary provides water, sewer and solid waste services for most residents and businesses in the community. You can start, stop or transfer these services to a new Cary address by calling a customer service representative at (919) 469-4050 or you can visit our office in the Finance Department, which is located in Building A on Town Hall Campus at 316 North Academy Street. W e are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday

For transfers of service or new start up of service there is a $4.00 service charge added to your first bill. We recommend that customers notify us of any service needs one working day in advance. If you are terminating Cary services it is important that you give us a forwarding address for your final bill or possible refund due you. For further information, please call (919) 469-4050. That's (919) 469-4050.

CALL BEFORE YOU DIG

The number to call to request the location of underground water and sewer lines before you dig is 1-800-632-4949. That number again is 1-800-632-4949.

DISCOLORED WATER

Water may occasionally become discolored due to water main breaks, fires that use a high volume of water, or other problems in the water system. These problems usually show up in your home as cloudy or muddy water from your faucet or shower.

Do not be alarmed. This water is not unsafe to drink. It merely contains air, which makes the water cloudy, or sediments, which cause a muddy appearance, due to sudden changes in pressure in the system. When the cause of the problem is corrected, the cloudy or muddy water will be flushed from the system. Do not wash clothes if your water appears muddy, because the sediments may cause stains.

If you have cloudy or muddy water, please notify the Public Works & Utility Department at (919) 469-4090 Monday through Friday between 8 AM and 5 PM or (919) 469-4012 after normal business hours.

The number again is (919) 469-4090 Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. or (919) 469-4012 after normal business hours.

LEAKING FIRE HYDRANTS

If you notice a fire hydrant that is leaking, notify the Public Works & Utility Department by calling (919) 469-4090 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, or (919) 469-4012 after normal business hours.

They will need to know the exact location of the hydrant, so be prepared with that information before you call.

The number again for Public Works & Utilities is (919) 469-4090 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, or (919) 469-4012 after normal business hours.

NEW WATER METERS

For information about cost and application of an irrigation meter or a water meter for new construction purposes, call the Construction Management Department at (919) 469-4335. If your application has already been processed and you are requesting installation of a new meter please call the Public Works & Utility Department at (919) 469-4090

SEWAGE STOPPAGES

On occasion, any house or business may experience sluggishly draining sewage. Or sewage may be coming out of a sewer clean out which is usually located near the property line in front of a house. This may be a result of a blockage in the sewer service line or tree roots that have grown into the sewer line.

If you have either of these situations, please call the Public Works & Utility Department at (919) 469-4090, Monday through Friday between 8am and 5pm, or (919) 469-4012 after normal business hours, weekends and holidays.

Those numbers again are (919) 469-4090 during normal business hours, and (919) 469-4012 at night and on weekends and holidays.

SEWER/WATER SERVICES

Water service is provided by the Town of Cary Public Works & Utility Department. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you have questions pertaining to water and sewer treatment or services, call (919) 469-4090. That number again, (919) 469-4090. After office hours, weekends, or holidays, call (919) 469-4012. That number again, (919) 469-4012.

The Public Works & Utility Department maintains sanitary sewer lines up to the property line of residences and private businesses. Residents are urged to refrain from disposing of cooking grease and large foreign objects in the sewer system.

Should a sewer blockage develop in the Town’s lines between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, please call (919) 469-4090. That number again, (919) 469-4090. After 5 p.m., weekends, and holidays, please call (919) 469-4012 for assistance. That number again, (919) 469-4012. A repair crew will be dispatched as soon as possible.

UTILITIES PROPERTY VANDALISM

Town of Cary water and sewer facilities such as pump stations, water tanks, manholes, and fire hydrants are purchased and maintained with tax dollars from our citizens. If you observe any individual other than a Town of Cary employee making use of or causing damage to the utilities system or any Town property, please contact the Town of Cary Utility Department immediately at (919) 469-4090. After 5 p.m., weekends, and holidays, please call (919) 469-4012 to report suspicious activity. Your assistance in ensuring that Town property is protected is appreciated.

WATER QUALITY INFORMATION

The Town of Cary Public Works & Utility Department will be happy to answer any questions about water quality. Please call (919) 469-4090 between 8 a.m. and 
5 p.m. Monday through Friday or (919) 469-4012 after business hours for inquiries or concerns about your water quality

Water may occasionally become discolored due to water main breaks, fires that use a high volume of water, or other problems in the water system. These problems usually show up in your home as cloudy or muddy water from your faucet or shower.

Do not be alarmed. This water is not unsafe to drink. It merely contains air, which makes the water cloudy, or sediments, which cause a muddy appearance, due to sudden changes in pressure in the system. When the cause of the problem is corrected, the cloudy or muddy water will be flushed from the system. Do not wash clothes if your water appears muddy, because the sediments may cause stains.

If you have cloudy or muddy water, please notify the Public Works & Utility Department at (919) 469-4090 Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. or (919) 469-4012 after normal business hours.

WATER CONSERVATION

The Town of Cary has a comprehensive water conservation program designed to reduce water use 20% over the next 20 years. The program will delay the next water plant expansion and save taxpayers millions of dollars. Three components make up the program: education, incentives and regulations.

Town staff teach water efficient landscaping and irrigation workshops and conduct presentations in local schools, and coordinate the Block Leader Program. Incentive programs include the tiered utility rate structure and the flapper rebate. Ordinances include the Alternate Day Watering ordinance, the Rain Sensor Ordinance, and the Water Waste Ordinance. 

Here are few quick tips you can do to help conserve water:

In accordance with the Alternate Day Watering Ordinance, water your lawn or garden with moderation. Water either early or late in the day and see that water doesn't run off onto sidewalks and streets.

Don't run the water hose while you're washing the car.

Use clothes washers and dishwashers when they are completely full.

Check every faucet in your house for leaks.

FIRE CODE INFORMATION

The Town of Cary has adopted the North Carolina State Fire Code. This code prescribes regulations for the identification and correction of fire hazards in occupancies covered by the code including the maintenance of exit doors, fire walls, fire protection equipment, flammable liquids and hazardous materials.

Information on the fire code can be obtained from the Risk Management Division during normal business hours at (919) 469-4056, that's (919) 469-4056. If you wish to report a fire hazard on commercial property, you can call (919) 469-4056 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

FIRE EXTINGUISHER, GENERAL INFORMATION

Portable fire extinguishers apply an "agent" that will cool burning fuel, restrict or remove the oxygen, or interfere with the chemical reaction so the fire cannot continue to burn.

Every home should have at least one fire extinguisher. Identify hazardous areas where fires are likely to start and which type of fire would likely occur in each area.

Extinguishers should be kept in a handy location but remote from the anticipated fire area. Everyone in the family should know where they are and how to use them.

For Class A fires in ordinary combustibles, such as wood, paper, cloth, upholstery, plastics or similar materials, use a water or dry chemical extinguisher.

For Class B fires fueled by flammable liquids and gases, kitchen greases, paint, oil, kerosene or gasoline, use a dry chemical, carbon dioxide or halon extinguisher. Never use water.

For Class C fires involving live electrical equipment or wires, use a dry chemical, carbon dioxide or halon extinguisher. If possible, cut off the power first, before the fire becomes a Class A or B. Never use water.

An ABC fire extinguisher will extinguish all three classes of fire and is the best type to have in your home.

Check your fire extinguisher for detailed instructions on how to operate your particular type.

The minimum rating for multi-purpose use around the home or small office is a 2A 10BC.

HOW TO OBTAIN FIRE REPORTS

To request a copy of a fire report, contact the Cary Fire Department Administrative Office at (919) 469-4056. There is no charge for fire reports.

FIRE SETTING BY CHILDREN

Most experts agree that the best way to understand a child's fire setting is by looking at the context and motivation for the behavior.

There are four types of fire setting, and for each type, a different strategy is used to stop the behavior. The first type is curiosity, usually found in 3 to 7 year old children. The child is curious and plays with fire to learn about it. Fire safety education is recommended. The second type is a crisis, usually with 5 to 10 year olds involving a sudden change in life or recent trauma. The child is using fire as a "cry for help" to show his inability to cope with the sudden change. He will usually continue until stress is relieved or he is taught safer ways to cope. Recommended treatment is counseling and education. The third type is a delinquent. This usually involves children 10 to 14 years old. A child sets fire to impress peers, out of boredom, defiance or peer pressure. Restitution and education will help. The fourth type is a problem fire setter, usually 7 to 12 year olds with a history of school and social problems. Counseling is recommended.

Parents can help prevent most fire setting by keeping matches and lighters out of the reach of young children. Presently, very little pressure is required to ignite a disposable lighter, thus young children have the ability and strength to ignite a flame. Disposable lighters are the right size for a child's hand. Color awareness is beginning for many children at the age of 3 or 4, and disposable lighters come in very bright colors which contribute to children thinking they are toys. Parental supervision needs to be considered. Many parents strive to always keep matches and lighters out of reach of young children. There is a strike zone from the floor to an adult's shoulder height. This is an area which should be free of matches and lighters.

If an older child is curious about matches, show him the proper and safe way to use them, but only when an adult is present.

Often, when children play with fire, nothing happens. They develop a false sense of control over it. Fire play is very serious. Don't assume it is just a phase and will pass by itself. Children who play with fire

can be dangerous to themselves and others. Because children usually don't understand why they are setting fires, they can't stop without help.

The Cary Fire Department offers an interview program for children up to age 14 who have shown fire play behavior characteristics. If you want to discuss this problem with someone, call (919) 469-4056.

FIREWORKS

Fireworks can bring special meaning to the fourth of July, but used negligently fireworks can cause serious injury dangerous fires and millions of dollars in property damage. Even though some fireworks are legal in NC, the Cary Fire Department encourages you to leave fireworks to the professionals and attend an organized fireworks display in your area. For more information on fireworks, contact the Cary Fire Department at (919) 469-056. Again, that number is (919) 469-056.

FUEL STORAGE TANKS

A permit from the Cary Fire Department is required for the installation and removal of underground storage tanks. A 30 day notification is required by the State for the underground storage tank removal.  For more information, please contact the Fire Risk Management Division of the Cary Fire Department, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at (919) 469-4056. That number again (919) 469-4056.

FIRE DEPARTMENT GENERAL INFORMATION

Thank you for inquiring about the Cary Fire Department. The fire department is comprised of a team of dedicated professional trained to protect you and your family in case of fires, medical emergencies and natural or manmade disasters.

Some of the services offered by the Fire Department include:

Blood Pressure Screening: Stop by any of the 6 Cary fire stations for a free blood pressure check. All Cary firefighters are North Carolina EMT-D certified.

Fire Station Tours: Free tours are available at each of the Town's 6 fire stations. Contact the fire station of your choice to schedule an appointment.

Fire Code/Plan Review: For questions concerning fire codes or building/sprinkler plans, contact the Risk Management Division at (919) 469-4056.

Fire Education Classes: To inquire about fire education classes for all age groups, contact the Risk Management Division at (919) 469-4056.

Bulk Water Sales: For equipment rental for Bulk Water Sales, call (919) 460-4908.

For more information about the Fire Department, visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

HOME FIRE ESCAPE PLANNING

When planning a home fire escape plan, draw a floor plan of your home. Show all windows, doors, halls, stairs and bedrooms. Make sure all rooms, especially bedrooms, have at least two exits. Draw dark arrows on your plan to indicate normal exits. Mark emergency escape routes with lighter arrows. These alternative exits are to be used when normal exits are blocked.

Test your escape routes. Make sure windows can be opened easily, and that screens and storm windows can be removed from the inside. If your bedrooms are on the second floor, provide folding escape ladders.

To account for everyone's safety, select and list on your plan a definite meeting place outside the house. Do not waste time gathering valuables or getting dressed. Assign someone to assist infants, elderly and handicapped family members.

Be prepared to call the fire department from a neighbor's house by dialing 911. Give the 911 telecommunicator your name, address, phone number and type of emergency. Wait to answer any questions before terminating the call.

Hold fire drills in your home. Have all family members participate. This will test the practicality of your plan and give you a chance to practice escaping.

REGULATIONS ON OUTDOOR BURNING

Outdoor burning is regulated by the NC Fire Code, the Town of Cary Code of Ordinances and the State Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources Air Pollution Control Requirements. For all practical purposes, any outdoor burning must be by permit only. Permits and conditions of permits may be obtained by contacting the Risk Management Division at (919) 469-4056. That number again is (919) 469-4056. When all conditions are met, a permit for up to 30 days will be issued.

General guidelines for outdoor burning related to construction projects are as follows:

The location of burning must be at least 1,000 feet from residential structures, 500 feet away from commercial structures and adequate clearance must be obtained from any wooded area.

Permits granted are subject to the following conditions:

1. Burning must cease in the event atmospheric conditions exist that make such burning hazardous or a nuisance.
2. No accellerants such as tires, tubes, crude oils, flammable liquids or similar hazardous or objectionable substances will be used.
3. The permittee assumes responsibility for any damage should any occur from such burning.
4. Burning must be attended at all times.
5. No Sunday burning.
6. Two piles allowed per operator.
7. Permit must be kept on site at all times.

Violations of Section 9-47 of the Town of Cary Code of Ordinances can result in revocation of the permit, fines and/or imprisonment.

Permits for campfires used for ceremonial, cooking or recreational purposes can be obtained from the Risk Management Division at (919) 469-4056 subject to Fire Department approval.

PARKING IN FIRE LANES

Parking in designated fire lanes is prohibited. Fire lanes are considered part of the fire protection system of any building. They are designed to allow unobstructed fire apparatus access at all times to the building in the event of a fire or a medical emergency. Whenever a fire lane is blocked, the safety of that building and its occupants is jeopardized. If you would like more information regarding fire lanes or would like to report a violation, pleases call the Cary Police Department at (919) 469-4012 during regular business hours. Once again that number again is (919) 469-4012.

RENTAL EQUIPMENT FOR BULK WATER

Persons, such as contractors, needing bulk water for washing down streets or filling tanks for trucks may make arrangements for the rental of fire hoses and hydrant meters through the Fire Department. This may be done Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. The number to call is (919) 460-4908. Again that number is (919) 460-4908.

REPORTING FIRE HAZARDS

To report a fire hazard, contact Fire Risk Management Division at (919) 469-4056.

FIRE SAFETY TIPS FOR PARENTS

Parents can help prevent fire setting by children. All matches and lighters should be kept out of the reach of young children. Very little pressure is required to ignite a disposable lighter. Even a very young child can light a disposable lighter.

Disposable lighters look like toys to young children 3 or 4 years of age, who are developing color awareness. Remember there is a strike zone from the floor to an adult's shoulder height. Any space from the floor to your shoulder should be kept free of all fire setting materials.

Fire play is a very serious matter. Don't assume that this is just a phase with your child. Children who set fires or play with fire can be a very serious threat to others and themselves. Children do not have the cognitive powers to understand why they set fires. Children who set fires must receive therapy. Contact the Fire Marshall's Office if you have questions regarding this matter. That number is (919) 469-4056 or (919) 469-4056.

TOURS OF FIRE FACILITIES

The Fire Department has 6stations strategically located throughout Cary to serve the community. The Cary Fire Department invites citizens, groups or organizations to tour any Cary Fire Station. To schedule a tour contact then Fire Station of choice directly at any of the following locations:

For more information about the Cary Fire Department, visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

ABANDONED VEHICLES

The procedure for handling abandoned vehicles is shared by the Planning & Development Department and the Cary Police Department. Their jurisdiction is based on whether the vehicle is located on public or private property.

Citizens wishing to report an abandoned vehicle on private property should report the vehicle to the Planning Department at (919) 469-4082 between the hours of 
8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. That's (919) 469-4082.

Citizens wishing to report abandoned vehicles on Town property or streets should report the vehicle to the Cary Police. Call (919) 469-4012, that's (919) 469-4012. The report will be forwarded to the on-duty officers for investigation and disposition. Vehicles found to be in violation may be posted and removed after 7 days if they are not creating any imminent hazard, which will result in immediate removal.

BURGLARY PREVENTION FOR BUSINESS

Security is an important part of business management, just as important as inventory control, advertising, pricing, and location. Good security practices can save money and time and make your business less of a target for the criminal element.

Make your business uninviting to a burglar by installing proper lighting inside and outside. Lighting should cover areas like entrances, windows, and alleys. Inside the business it is important to use lighting to reduce hiding places for thieves.

Do not clutter windows with advertisements that can obstruct the outside view into the business. Make it difficult for burglars to get inside your business. Use heavy, solid doors, and use your locks and alarm systems properly. Make sure that skylights, vents, loading docks, sidewalk grilles, or other openings can be secured. Do not keep large amounts of cash on the premises. Make bank deposits at varying times of the day. Alarm systems can be very helpful as deterrents and in helping to catch burglars as long as they are properly installed, used correctly by employees, and maintained. Report suspicious activity and persons to the Police immediately.

For a free business security assessment contact the Cary Police Department's Community Services Unit at (919) 469-4324 weekdays between 8 a.m. and 
4:30 p.m. That number again is (919) 469-4324.

BURGLARY PREVENTION FOR HOMES

Burglary is a serious crime to which we are all vulnerable. It is however one of the most preventable of crimes. A few simple precautions will greatly reduce the possibility that you will be a victim of this crime.

Make your home look occupied, make it difficult to break in by locking your outside doors before you leave the house or go to bed. Lock your windows. Leave your lights on when you go out for the night and use exterior lighting or motion sensitive lighting as a deterrent to burglary and vandalism. Keep your garage door closed and locked. Do not allow daily deliveries to accumulate; if you are gone, have a neighbor pick up papers and mail. Arrange to have your lawn cut in the summer and walks cleared in the winter.

For further information contact the Community Services Unit at (919) 469-4324. That number again is (919) 469-4324.

CONCEALED WEAPONS

Private citizens of the State of North Carolina can carry a concealed handgun if they have a valid permit, as well as valid identification. Anyone interested in getting a concealed handgun permit must apply at the Sheriffs department in their county of residence.

The permit fees, payable to the Sheriff, are: APPLICATION, $90.00 RENEWAL, $80.00 DUPLICATE, $15; and FINGERPRINT PROCESSING, $10.

Any person who has a valid permit may carry a concealed handgun unless specifically prohibited by law. The person must carry the permit along with valid identification whenever he is carrying a concealed handgun. When approached by a law enforcement officer, the gun carrier must tell the officer that he holds a valid permit and is carrying a concealed handgun and must show both the permit and the proper identification on request of the officer.

It is unlawful for a person with or without a permit to carry a concealed handgun while consuming alcohol or while the person has alcohol or any controlled substance in his blood. If a controlled substance is lawfully obtained and taken in therapeutically appropriate amounts, it does not violate this law.

This law pertains only to carrying concealed handguns. It is still unlawful to intentionally carry a concealed weapon, such as a bowie knife, dirk dagger, loaded cane, metallic knuckles, razor, shurkin, stun gun or other deadly weapon of like kind except when the person is on his own property.

For additional information, contact the Cary Police Department at (919) 469-4324. That number again is (919) 469-4324.

HOW TO CONTACT AN INVESTIGATOR:

In order to maximize the effectiveness of the investigators, the Team and the uniformed officers, the Department uses solvability factors in the assignment of cases for follow-up investigation. Cases which meet certain criteria are assigned for follow-up investigation to either an investigator or the initial officer. However, each case is reviewed to consider special circumstances. This allows officers to spend more time on those cases which stand a greater likelihood of being solved.

If you have a question concerning the status of a particular case, you may call the Investigative Team at either (919) 462-2002 or (919) 469-4017, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

If you are calling a specific investigator, they may be reached at the following numbers:

To report a crime, call the Communications Center at (919) 469-4012, 24 hours a day. If you have an emergency situation, hang up now and dial 911.

CRIME PREVENTION FOR BUSINESSES

Free crime prevention assistance for Town businesses is available from the Cary Police Department. A specially-developed program provides suggested crime prevention techniques you may implement to reduce your chances of becoming a burglary, larceny, robbery, rape or fraud victim. An officer can conduct a security survey of your business, and make crime prevention presentations to your employees as well as business and professional groups. For crime prevention assistance, call the Community Services Unit at (919) 469-4324.

CRIME PREVENTION FOR RESIDENTS

Free crime prevention assistance is available to Cary residents from the Police Department. A specially-developed program provides suggested crime prevention techniques you may implement to reduce your chances of becoming a burglary, larceny, robbery, rape or fraud victim. A Police Officer can conduct individual security surveys of your home or make presentations to civic, service and professional groups. Free brochures are also available on a variety of topics including residential burglary, rape, theft from vehicles, suspicious activity, fraud and robbery.

One of the best ways to prevent crime in residential neighborhoods is to organize a Community Watch Group. The success of the program is clear: by working together we have a better chance of keeping our community safe.

Community Watch groups are not difficult to organize. Once at least half of the residents in a neighborhood have agreed to participate, they select a president and block captains. The president works directly with the Police Department to provide information to the block captains, who in turn communicate with the residents through newsletters and telephone calls. They, in turn, provide information to the police.

Community Watch participants' duties include arranging for a home security survey, practicing operation ID, exchanging identification with neighbors, reporting all crimes and suspicious activity to the police. Never attempt to arrest an offender. Community Watch signs are available for purchase so that they can be posted in your neighborhood to serve notice to potential criminals that someone is watching them.

To learn more about Community Watch, call (919) 469-4324. That number again is (919) 469-4324.

You do not have to be a member of a Community Watch group to practice Operation ID. Operation ID, or Operation Identification, helps protect your property and helps you reclaim it if it is stolen. The program is simple. You should maintain an up-to-date record of the serial numbers of all appliances, tools, radio and TV sets, firearms and other valuables you own. Keep a detailed and accurate description of all valuables and serial numbers. Whenever possible, inscribe or label your valuables with your North Carolina driver's license number. Engravers can be purchased at local hardware stores. And finally, report any stolen or lost items to the police as soon as possible.

To report a crime or suspicious activity, call the Cary police at (919) 469-4012 or 911 in an emergency. The number again is (919) 469-4012. Remember, crime doesn't pay -- you do!

CRIMESTOPPERS

CRIME STOPPERS is a program in which members of the community, the media, law enforcement agencies, and businesses work together to solve crime. Citizens are encouraged, via cash rewards and a promise of anonymity, to provide information leading to the arrest and indictment of criminals.

CRIME STOPPERS is made up of volunteers from Cary--your neighbors, who are willing to take action against crime. A board of directors - members of the community who have volunteered to give their time and talents to the program - administer CRIME STOPPERS.

Each month, facts pertaining to an unsolved crime are publicized via radio, newspaper and televised

reenactments, and citizens are encouraged to call CRIME STOPPERS with any information about the case or any unsolved crime. Each informant is given a code number so that confidentiality and anonymity are ensured. Rewards of up to $2500 for information leading to the arrest of a criminal provide incentive to callers.

If you have information about a possible crime or about a person you believe is responsible for a crime in Cary, please call CRIME STOPPERS at (919) 226-CRIME (226-2746) That number again is (919) 226-CRIME. Remember, all calls are confidential. You do not have to give your name.

ENHANCED 9-1-1

Citizens of Cary can dial "9-1-1 "in an emergency situation and obtain police, fire or emergency medical assistance. The Cary system is an "Enhanced 9- 1-1" system which automatically provides the phone number and address from which the call originates to the telecommunicator who is answering the call. This feature allows the telecommunicator to dispatch emergency assistance even if the caller is unable to accurately provide the location of the need for assistance.

FINGERPRINTING

Fingerprinting of adults is offered on a limited basis. The Cary Police Department offers a fingerprinting service on Wednesdays only, between 1:00 and 3:00 PM. The cost of this service is $5.00 Citizens should provide their own fingerprint cards. For more information, call (919) 469-4021.

The City County Bureau of Identification (CCBI) offers a fingerprinting service with a broader range of hours. This agency is located in downtown Raleigh in the Wake County Public Safety Center. For more information, call (919) 856-6300.

POLICE DEPARTMENT GENERAL INFORMATION

The Cary Police Division employs approximately 162 full-time personnel to provide police services to the town. This includes sworn police officers and non-sworn employees. In addition, the Department employs part-time school crossing guards and a data entry clerk.

The administrative facility for police operations is in Town Hall Building A at 316 North Academy Street, across from the Cary Chamber of Commerce. Hours for the administrative offices are 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Please dial 911 for all emergencies that require a police, fire or rescue response. The 911 service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week as is information about the Police Department on the Town’s web site, www.townofcary.org. For routine information and assistance, call (919) 469-4021. That's (919) 469-4012.

The Department also operates police service centers for the convenience of citizens. The centers are located at Crossroads Plaza Shopping Center and Fire Station #5 on High House Road.

HANDGUNS AND FIREARMS REQUIREMENTS

It is unlawful for any person to discharge a firearm, air gun, spring gun, pellet gun, or other such implement inside the Town limits of Cary. In the unincorporated areas of Wake County, you may discharge a firearm only on your own property or on the property of another with that individual's permission.

It is illegal to point a gun or pistol at any person. Whether or not the gun or pistol is loaded, is not a defense. It is illegal to carry a firearm or other weapon onto the property of any public or private educational institution or school. This includes the grounds and campuses, as well as recreational grounds and athletic fields.

Also, State law requires that any person who lives in the same residence as a minor store all firearms so that the minor cannot get to them. If the minor takes a firearm on any campus or educational property in North Carolina; exhibits the weapon in a public place in a careless, angry or threatening manner; causes personal injury or death with the weapon not in self-defense; or uses the weapon in the commission of a crime, the adult is guilty of a misdemeanor.

A permit is required to purchase a handgun or crossbow in North Carolina. These permits are available to individuals who are at least 21 years of age. For more details, call the Wake County Sheriffs office at (919) 856-6900.

The State of North Carolina does issue permits that allow concealed weapons to be carried by citizens. For additional information, refer to message number 403, or call the Wake County Sheriff s Office. It is still illegal for any person, except when on his own property, to carry concealed deadly weapons, such as knives, other small folding pocket knives, razors, metallic knuckles or stun guns.

*Also, If a facility has a sign prohibiting concealed weapons to be carried there, it shall be deemed unlawful to carry the weapon even with a concealed carry permit.

For more information, contact the Cary Police Department at (919) 469-4012 or visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

HUNTING AND SHOOTING INFORMATION

Private sports or bait and tackle shops sell hunting and fishing licenses. For information, call the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission at (919) 662-4370. That's (919) 662-4370. To report suspected violators to the Wildlife Resource Commission enforcement officer, call their Communications Center at (919) 662-4381. That's (919) 662-4381. Gun shops and sporting goods stores offer additional information about hunting and shooting clubs in the area.

HOW THE INTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICE WORKS

The Cary Police Department provides a system for citizens to voice complaints about Department employees with assurance that a thorough investigation will be conducted. It is the policy of the Cary Police Department to investigate all allegations of officer misconduct received from citizens or members of the Police Department. Internal Affairs coordinates the investigations.

YOU SHOULD REGISTER A COMPLAINT If you think you have been treated improperly by a Police Department employee or if you have a complaint and/or significant concern regarding any Police Department employee or action.

To file a complaint, call, write or visit:

Cary Police Department Investigations Unit 
316 N. Academy St.
P.O. Box 8005
Cary, NC 27512-8005
(919) 469-4017

Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

OR

Cary Police Department
Watch Commander's Office
316 N. Academy St.
P.O. Box 8005
Cary, NC 27512-8005 
(919) 469-4016

Personnel are available 24 hours a day.

The Police Department makes every effort to fully investigate each complaint. After the investigation is complete, you will be notified of the findings of the investigation. Appropriate action will be taken against the employee if warranted.

POLICE INVESTIGATIVE UNIT

The Criminal Investigations Unit is one part of the Field Operations Division of the Cary Police Department.

This unit is responsible for follow-up investigation of crimes, such as murder, suicide, assault, rape, robbery and kidnapping. The unit also investigates crimes against property which include motor vehicle thefts, forgery, false pretense, flim-flams, embezzlement, larceny and burglaries.

The juvenile investigators are assigned all cases in which a juvenile was either a victim or a suspect. These cases range from runaways to more serious cases such as aggravated assaults, extortion, and child abuse. Uniformed officers handle the initial contact with the juvenile. If the juvenile has been temporarily detained as in the case of a minor theft, the uniformed officer will notify the parents and release the juvenile into their custody. The case is then assigned to the juvenile investigator for follow-up.

Investigators have individual areas of expertise to improve the effectiveness of the unit. All members of the unit have received specialized training in specific areas of criminal investigation. The Criminal Investigations Unit assists Uniformed Patrol in cases requiring more time to investigate. This close working relationship is vital, in order that the Department deliver a quality product to the community.

If you wish to report a life-threatening emergency or other serious incident which is in progress, hang up and dial 911. If you want to report an incident which has already occurred call our Communications Center at (919) 469-4012. If you have already filed a report and wish to speak with an investigator about your case call (919) 469-4017.

NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH PROGRAMS

Community Watch is a crime prevention program which enlists the active participation of citizens in cooperation with law enforcement to reduce crime. It involves:

• Neighbors getting to know each other and working together in programs of mutual assistance to prevent crime.
• Citizens being trained to recognize and report suspicious activities in their neighborhoods.

The goal of Community Watch is to give potential criminals the feeling that everyone in the community is watching their every move and will report them to law enforcement.

If you are interested in starting a Community Watch Program in your neighborhood, contact the Community Services Unit of the Cary Police Department at (919) 469-4324. That number again is (919) 469-4324 between
8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday or you may leave a voice mail for a return call.

PARKING TICKETS

Parking tickets are given based on the laws of Cary and of North Carolina.

Any person who wishes to contest a parking ticket should present the ticket to the Police Department within 5 working days of receipt for further instruction. If you wish to pay for a parking ticket violation, you can do so in person or by mailing the ticket along with a check for the amount due to the Town of Cary Finance Department within 5 working days.

For additional information, call (919) 469-4021 between 7:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. That's (919) 469-4021.

PERSONAL SAFETY

Self protection means knowing how to avoid being the victim of an attack or robbery by staying alert for the unexpected and not taking unnecessary chances. It also includes knowing what to do if you are a victim and acting with common sense and cooperating with authorities. The police department has programs to help protect you against crime. Programs include precautions to take at home or while walking or driving a car, sexual assault and robbery prevention; and various other topics of concern. Programs are intended to help you evaluate a crime risk and provide you with skills and information to help reduce the possibility of crime occurring and what to do if you do become a victim.

For more information about personal safety programs offered please contact the Community Services Unit at (919) 469-4324, that number again is (919) 469-4324.

POLICE REPORTS

Copies of police reports are available at no charge. Your insurance company may ask you to obtain a copy of your report. Accidents, theft and vandalism reports are the most common types requested. Copies can be obtained in person at the Cary Police Records desk or by mail. To obtain a copy by mail, send a request with the following information: Type of report; driver or victim name; date and time occurred; location; and report number, if known. Your request should be sent to the following address:

Cary Police Records
P.O. Box 8005
Cary, NC 27512-8005

For additional information, call (919) 469-4021 between 7:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. That's (919) 469-4021.

PROPERTY VIEWING AND RELEASE INFORMATION

If you would like to view property which you reported lost or stolen, the evidence section of the Cary Police Department is located at 316 North Academy Street. Please bring a photo ID, proof of ownership, and the Cary Police Department case number.

Evidence Room hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. by appointment only. For more information, or to schedule an appointment call (919) 319-4516 during normal business hours. Again, that number again is (919) 319-4516.

HOW TO REPORT A CRIME

Although all of us hope we never need the police, we should know how to reach them. The Cary Police emergency number is (919) 467-1911 or 911. The Police Department is located in Town Hall, 316 North Academy Street, and is open 24 hours a day.

The time to contact the police is as soon as you suspect or discover that a crime has been committed, or when a crime is in the process of being committed. Whenever you observe suspicious events, even though you may not be the only person observing them, report the incident to the Cary Police Department. The number to call is (919) 467-1911 or 911. Never think that the next person will make the call. Don't wait to talk it over with friends or neighbors. Valuable police response time is lost. If you are in doubt, call the police.

What is a suspicious incident? It could be a stranger entering your neighbor's home while your neighbor is away. It could be someone carrying property, such as TVs, radios or stereos at an unusually late hour or in an unusual place. Other suspicious activity is the sound of shattering glass, which could be the sign of a burglary or vandalism in progress. Anyone being forced into a vehicle could be the victim of a possible abduction. A free brochure on suspicious activity is available in the Cary Police Department.

To report a crime, immediately call the police at 911 or visit the police station in the Cary Town Hall at 316 North Academy Street. You will be asked for your name, address and home number. This information is requested in case additional information is needed from you. However, you may remain anonymous and any information you provide is kept in confidence. An officer will take the necessary information from you and proceed with an investigation.

The Police need the following information: what happened, where and when, and was anyone injured. Also helpful are names or physical descriptions of any people involved, including facial features, kind of clothes and an age estimate. A description is needed of any vehicle involved, including color, model, year and most important, license plate number. Be alert and observant! Features and physical descriptions you can remember can greatly assist police in the apprehension of criminals.

If you are reporting a crime such as a burglary, breaking and entering or theft, the police need as much information as possible about the property taken. This includes a list of the property, value, and serial numbers. The police advise all residents and businesses to maintain an up-to-date record of the serial numbers and an accurate description of all appliances, tools, radio and TV sets, firearms, and all other values. Whenever possible, inscribe or label your valuables with your North Carolina driver's license number.

For general police information, contact the Community Services Unit at (919) 469-4324. This is not an emergency number.

HOW TO REPORT A TRAFFIC ACCIDENT

No matter how safely you drive, chances are that someday you'll be in a traffic accident. Regardless of who is at fault, it's important that you know several legal requirements.

First, you must stop at the scene of the accident or as close to the scene as possible without blocking traffic. You may move the vehicles out of harm’s way if they are a traffic hazard.

Second, help victims who are obviously injured. Don't attempt to move an injured person unless you have medical training or there is immediate danger, such as fire.

Third, report the accident to the police as quickly as possible. You should report accidents that occur on private property, or that involve personal injury, death, vehicle or property damage.

Fourth, exchange information with the other people involved in the accident. This includes name, address and driver's license number and insurance policy number of other drivers; license plate numbers; names and addresses of anyone injured; and names and addresses of any witnesses.

Be sure to notify your insurance company immediately. You also should see a doctor since you might be injured and not know it.

If you have had an accident with an unattended vehicle, you must make a reasonable effort to find the owner of the vehicle or property that may be damaged. You should notify the nearest available police officer. If no one can be located, leave a note that can be easily found at the scene of the accident. Include your name, address, telephone number, driver's license number, license plate number, the date and time of the accident, and an estimate of the damages. You must also report the accident to the police within 48 hours. Failure to file a report may result in the loss of your driver's license and criminal charges. Call (919) 469-4012 for more information.

SEAT BELT LAWS

The State of North Carolina requires that all drivers and front seat passengers wear a seat belt or be restrained in a child safety seat when the vehicle is in motion on a public highway. The driver of the vehicle is held responsible if an unbuckled passenger is under the age of 16. Violators can be stopped by law enforcement if not buckled up.

Violation of the seat belt law is subject to a $25 fine.

No passenger car registered in this state and manufactured since 1964 can be operated on the streets and highways unless the front seats are equipped with adult safety lap belts or a combination of approved lap belts and shoulder straps.

SEXUAL ASSAULT PREVENTION

Sexual Assault Prevention presentations are intended to teach safety tips and to make citizens more aware of their surroundings when alone.

These talks include home and personal safety, as well as safety tips for shopping and driving. This is not a self-defense class. Both men and women alike are welcome to attend these lectures.

For more information on Sexual Assault Prevention, contact the Cary Police Department's Community Services Unit at (919) 469-4324 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. That number again is (919) 469-4324.

TOURS OF POLICE FACILITIES

Community groups wishing to tour the Cary Police Department should call the Community Services Unit Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at (919) 469-4324. That's (919) 469-4324. Groups should be no larger than 15 to 20 persons and arrangements should be made 2 weeks in advance. The tour includes all areas of the Police Department and a police car.

TRAFFIC COURT

Traffic Court is one of the divisions of the General District Court in Raleigh which is administered by the State of North Carolina in conjunction with the county government. Traffic Court meets Monday through Friday beginning at 9 a.m. The courtrooms are in the Wake County Courthouse on the 300 block of South Salisbury Street in downtown Raleigh.

Traffic fines may be paid from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, at the Clerk of Court's office in the Wake County Courthouse or before any magistrate in Wake County. For more information, call the Clerk of Court's Office at (919) 755-4110 or the Magistrate's office at (919) 755-4122.

Those numbers again are, Clerk of Court, (919) 755-4110 or magistrate, (919) 755-4122.

To avoid the risk of a warrant being issued for failure to appear on your scheduled court date, all waivable fines and court costs must be paid at least 48 hours before your court date. Payments made after this time should be paid directly to the Office of the Clerk of Court at the Wake County Courthouse.

TRANSPORTING WEAPONS

Areas in a vehicle that are commonly considered hidden from view and accessible are the glove compartment, a closed console, under or between the seats, under or in an item on the seat. Readily accessible means that the weapon is within easy reach of any occupant.

The Cary Police Department suggests that you either carry the weapon in plain view on the seat or in the locked trunk area of your vehicle. If the vehicle does not have a trunk, then the weapon should be placed at the far rear of the vehicle. If the weapon is placed anywhere other than the locked trunk area of the vehicle, you should immediately notify any police officer stopping your vehicle that a weapon is present and tell them where it is located.

Remember that this applies to any occupant of the vehicle. Therefore, care must be exercised by all occupants to ensure that weapons are securely locked away as far as possible from passengers.

For more information about firearm laws in North Carolina, please call the Community Services Unit of the Cary Police Department at (919) 469-4324. That's (919) 469-4324.

VACATION PREMISES SECURITY NOTIFICATION

The Cary Police Department offers the residents of Cary a vacation premises security notification program. Residents may come to the Police Department at any time to fill out the premises security notification form. For more information, please call (919) 469-4021, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The number again is (919) 469-4021.

VICE AND NARCOTICS INFORMATION

The Cary Police Department investigates all reported activity involving the sale and possession of illegal drugs. Information from citizens in the community, as well as intelligence gathered by officers, is used to investigate the cases. The Department also works with other law enforcement agencies to investigate narcotics violations.

If you have information concerning the possession or sale of illegal drugs, you can call the Police Investigations Unit at (919) 460-4917 or (919) 469-4017 between the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Emergency information should be reported by calling 911 after normal business hours.

If you have drug or other vice-related information, and you prefer to provide it to CrimeStoppers of Cary, first call 226-CRIME. That number again is 226-CRIME. After contacting CrimeStoppers, please call the investigative unit in case the investigator needs additional information. By using your CrimeStoppers identification number, you can remain anonymous.

VICTIM-WITNESS ASSISTANCE

Victim-Witness Assistance is designed to aid victims and witnesses through their involvement with proceedings in the Criminal Justice System.

The Cary Police Department will provide assistance if you need to make a change of address or phone number, ask questions about court, or any matter regarding your case.

The Cary Police Department offers the following points to remember when testifying in court:

1. Always tell the truth. Tell accurately what you recall and what you know. If you do not know the answer, say "I don't know." Do not guess or speculate.
2. Make sure you understand the question - you can always ask to have it repeated or rephrased. Listen carefully and give a clear, direct answer. Address only the question asked - do not volunteer any information. It is usually best to answer a "yes" or "no" question with "yes" or "no" unless your reply needs further explanation.
3. If one of the attorneys asks you a question to which there is an objection, do not answer until the judge says it's OK to answer.
4. If a defense attorney makes you feel uneasy, remember, he or she is just doing their job. You are not on trial. You are in control, and as long as you tell the judge or jury what you know, you will do fine.

If you are threatened by the defendant or anyone else in regard to your testimony, immediately call the Cary Police at (919) 469-4012. That number again is (919) 469-4012.

For information on qualifying for Crime Victim's Compensation Assistance and filling out a Victim's Impact Statement, contact Victim Assistance at the Wake County District Attorney's Office at (919) 755-4117. That number again is (919) 755-4117.

WHAT TO DO WITH A WORTHLESS CHECK

In North Carolina the police do not take a report for worthless checks except when there is an obvious attempt at fraud or the amount of the check is over $2,000 which constitutes a felony. If you have a check that is either a fraud or a felony please call the Cary Police Department at (919) 469-4012 to file a report. Individuals or businesses who have been issued a check that has been returned for non-sufficient funds or account closed should speak to a magistrate concerning prosecution.

Before seeing the magistrate and after dishonor of the check by the bank for non-sufficient funds or account closed, the acceptor sends the check passer a letter by CERTIFIED MAIL identifying the check and setting forth the circumstances of dishonor, and requesting rectification of any bank error or payment within 10 days. The acceptor may advise the check passer that legal action may be taken against him if full payment is not made within the prescribed period.

After 15 days have elapsed since the mailing of the certified letter the acceptor will present to the Magistrate:

• A completed APPLICATION FOR WORTHLESS CHECK PROCESS.
• A completed CRIMINAL SUMMONS FOR WORTHLESS CHECK. - ORIGINAL CHECK.
• A COPY OF THE LETTER sent to the check passer. - A COPY OF THE CERTIFIED MAIL RECEIPT.
• A COPY OF THE FACE OF THE CHECK.

You may see or call any magistrate for assistance in the completion of this process.

CHILD SAFETY SEAT LAWS

The State of North Carolina requires that all children under the age of four, who are passengers in vehicles, be restrained in safety seats that meet federal motor vehicle safety standards at the time of manufacture.

Children under the age of 12 must ride either in a child safety seat or wear a proper seat belt, whether they are sitting in the front or back seat.

This law applies to all passengers of vehicles with both in-state and out-of-state registration.

The driver is responsible for the proper restraint of children. Violation is subject to a $25 fine, plus court costs.

CITIZENS POLICE ACADEMY

The Citizens Police Academy offers residents of Cary an opportunity to learn about operations in the Cary Police Department.

The class requires a 13 week commitment from each participant. Classes last for two hours and are in session two nights a week.

The goals for the academy are:

• Citizens will be able to make more informed judgments about the Police Department and police activities.
• The Police Department will become more aware of the feelings and concerns of the community through interaction with citizens.
• Citizens and Police Officers will have an opportunity to form a special partnership to explore some of the traditional misconceptions generally held by both citizens and police officers.

If you are interested in more information on the Citizens Police Academy, contact Lieutenant Wulff of the Cary Police Department at (919) 460-4903 between 
8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

PICK-UP TRUCK SAFETY FOR CHILDREN UNDER 12

The State of North Carolina does not allow children 12 and under to ride in the bed of open pick-up trucks, except under the following exemptions:

1. They are in a designated rural county. Wake County is not designated as rural.
2. An adult is accompanying the children in the bed of the truck.
3. The vehicle is participating in a parade.
4. The vehicle is involved in agricultural work, and therefore has an agricultural exemption.

For more information, contact the Cary Police Department at (919) 469-4012.

POLICE NON-EMERGENCY NUMBER

The Cary Police Department has a 24-hour non-emergency number that should be used when possible. The number is (919) 469-4012. That number again is (919) 469-4012.

Use the non-emergency number to ask questions or directions. Also, use the number to report a crime that does not require immediate police response.

For example, if you are calling to report that your mailbox was vandalized while you were away for the weekend, immediate police response will not solve the crime. You can call the non-emergency number to report the crime and the officer on duty in your district will respond as soon as possible.

If you have an emergency or are in danger, call 9-1-1 first and the Cary Police will respond immediately. But in non-emergency situations, please call (919) 469-4012.

STACKING POLICE CALLS

The Cary Police Department has divided the Town into districts, and permanently assigned officers to each district. This method allows a police officer to better know the people and businesses on his or her beat.

If a crime occurs that needs immediate response, police officers from that district are called first. Others are called out of their districts to respond if necessary.

If a police call does not need immediate response, the call is "stacked" until the district officer can respond. For example, if your mailbox is vandalized while you are away for the weekend, immediate police response will not solve the crime. You can call the police non-emergency number to report the crime and the officer on duty in your district will respond as soon as possible. The 24-hour non-emergency number is (919) 469-4012. That number again is (919) 469-4012.

If you have an emergency or are in danger, call 9-1-1 first and the Cary Police will respond immediately. But in non-emergency situations, please call (919) 469-4012.

EROSION CONTROL

ENGINEERING Department INFORMATION

The Engineering Department provides design services and management of the Town's capital projects, as well as enforcing stormwater management ordinances.

The Engineering Department also manages street maintenance and provides surveying, drafting, graphics, and mapping services for other Town departments. For more information please call (919) 469-4030. That number again is (919) 469-4030. You can also visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

MAPPING INFORMATION

The Engineering Mapping Department, located in Building B on Town Hall Campus at 316 North Academy Street, has available for purchase various size topographic maps, water line maps, and sanitary sewer line maps, and other related information for existing and proposed subdivision development.

Town of Cary street maps are updated every year. Maps also are available at the Cary Chamber of Commerce, which is located at 307 N. Academy Street.

If you would like additional information please call (919) 469-4030 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Again that number is (919) 469-4030.

STORM DAMAGE (including flooding)

Occasionally rain fall will occur at such a rapid rate that storm drain catch basins are unable to absorb the flow. Flooding from intense thunderstorms can occur in the Town of Cary. After a flood has occurred the following measures are suggested. These should not be considered inclusive:

• Contact your insurance agent to verify insurance coverage of the damages you have incurred. Unless there are special circumstances flooding from external sources is not covered on most homeowners policies
• Prior to entering a building check for structural damage - Upon entering a building do not use open flame
• Verify utility lines are shut off
• Cover broken window or holes in the roof to prevent further damage - Begin immediate cleanup activities to maintain health hazards
• Use only purified or bottled water
• Dry wooden furniture out of direct sunlight
• Remove debris before it has a chance to dry
• Flooded basements should be drained and cleared after flood waters have subsided
• Pumping out of basements should be done at moderate rates to avoid wall failures

In the event that flooding is due to a blocked storm drainage system please call the Department of Public Works & Utility Department at (919) 469-4090 to get blockage removed. Again that number is (919) 469-4090.

For more information on flood damage you may either stop by the Stormwater Services Division Office located at Cary Town Hall, Building B, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or by calling (919) 469-4076. If you are calling during non-business hours please feel free to leave a message and someone will get back to you as soon as possible. Again the number is (919) 469-4076.

STORM DRAINAGE INFORMATION

The Public Works & Utility Department, maintains the storm drainage systems on Town-owned property and within rights of way. If you would like to report a clogged catch basin on your street that needs cleaning, call (919) 469-4090. That number again is (919) 469-4090. Normal operating hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A recorded message may be left after business hours.

WEED AND UNDERGROWTH CONTROL

Within the city limits of Cary, the tall weed and undergrowth control ordinance is enforced by the Public Works & Utility Department. Weeds and undergrowth must be maintained to a height no more than 8 inches on all lots where a structure exists.

To report a violation, or to request further information, call the Public Works & Utility Department at (919) 469-4090, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 
5 p.m. A recorded message may be left after business hours.

ROAD SIGNS & TRAFFIC MARKINGS

The Public Works & Utility Department, maintains the signs and pavement markings within the Town limits of Cary. If you have a question, comment, or report of damage regarding the signs or pavement markings, (919) 469-4090. Normal operating hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A recorded message may be left after business hours.

After normal business hours, if a situation appears hazardous and requires immediate attention, please contact the Cary Police Department at (919) 469-4012.

STREETLIGHT INSTALLATIONS AND MALFUNCTIONS

For information concerning streetlight installation requests, contact the Town of Cary Engineering Department at (919) 469-4030. The number again is (919) 469-4030.

STREET MAPS

Streets maps for the Town of Cary and vicinity are available form the Cary Chamber of Commerce, area book and convenience stores, as well as many area banks and real estate offices. Maps are also available from Maps Online section of the town’s web site, www.townofcary.org.

Please contact the Cary Chamber of Commerce at (919) 467-1016 for more information. Again, that number is (919) 469-1016. The Chamber of Commerce is located at 307 N. Academy Street, across from the Cary Town Hall campus.

STREET AND SIDEWALK REPAIRS

The Public Works & Utility Department repairs sidewalks, curbs and gutters, street potholes and sunken roadways within the Town of Cary. When an urgent situation arises, temporary repairs are made, followed by permanent repairs as soon as possible.

To report a street or sidewalk problem, call (919) 469-4090. That's (919) 469-4090. Normal operating hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 
A recorded message may be left after business hours.

After normal business hours, if a situation appears hazardous and requires immediate attention, please contact the Cary Police Department at (919) 469-4012.

STREET SWEEPING

The Public Works & Utility Department is responsible for sweeping streets in Cary. Their objective is to sweep main thoroughfares once every three months, the downtown area once a week, and residential streets twice a year.

Sweepers also respond to special requests for immediate pickup of debris that is creating traffic problems, such as broken glass. In addition to helping keep the town clear of debris, sweeping reduces health hazards by ensuring trash doesn't accumulate and become a haven for insects and rodents.

For additional information, or to report an area needing immediate attention, call the Public Works & Utility Department at (919) 469-4090. That's (919) 469-4090. Normal operating hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A recorded message may be left after business hours.

After normal business hours, if a situation appears hazardous and requires immediate attention, please contact the Cary Police Department at (919) 469-4012.

THOROUGHFARE PLAN

The Town of Cary has a plan for widening and extending thoroughfares and collector streets throughout the Cary area to better serve the traveling public. This plan was prepared jointly by the State Department of Transportation and the Town. It can be reviewed in the Town's Engineering Department. For more information, visit us online at www.townofcary.org or call (919) 469-4030 Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. The number again is (919) 469-4030.

TRAFFIC SIGNAL MALFUNCTIONS

Traffic signals in the Town of Cary are installed and maintained by the North Carolina Department of Transportation. To report maintenance items, call NCDOT at (919) 477-2914. To request a new traffic signal, call NCDOT at (919) 560-6856. Those numbers again are (919) 477-2914 for maintenance and (919) 560-6856 to request a new traffic signal.

If you wish to report a malfunctioning signal within the city limits of Cary, please contact the Cary Police Department at (919) 469-4012.

VISIBILITY PROBLEMS DUE TO TREES OR SHRUBS

The Public Works & Utility Department should be notified of any visibility problems caused by trees, shrubs or other obstructions within the street right-of-way blocking the view of oncoming traffic. Call (919) 469-4090 to report sight obstructions. Normal operating hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A recorded message may be left after business hours. The number again is (919) 469-4090.

TRAFFIC SIGNAL INSTALLATION

A comprehensive study of traffic patterns and conditions is required before a traffic signal can be installed. The study includes 16 consecutive hours of traffic counts, 4 hours of pedestrian volume counts, speed studies, accident reports and more.

The Federal Highway Administration lists 8 different conditions for a traffic signal, including such things as vehicle and pedestrian volume, accident experience, peak hour traffic delays and peak hour volume. Even if one or more of the conditions are met, a signal may not be installed. An engineering study must be conducted to determine if a signal is truly needed.

If you would like to request that an intersection in Cary be studied, call the Engineering Department at (919) 462-3833. That number again is (919) 462-3833.

The Engineering Department also can tell you the status of current intersections and signals.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation maintains all the traffic signals in Cary, except for those on private property. If you have questions about existing signals, call the Division Engineer's office in Durham at (919) 560-6856. That number again is (919) 560-6856.

COMMUNITY CENTERS GENERAL INFORMATION

FITNESS, WELLNESS AND DANCE PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN

Cary Parks Recreation & Cultural Resources is currently offering currently offering the following programs for youth. For detailed information on dates, times and the registration process, please refer to the Program Brochure which is available in any Town facility or download a copy from the Town website.

Stretch-N-Grow Silly Sounds - age 15-36 months
Stretch-N-Grow 2's - age 18-36 months
Stretch-N-Grow Silly Sounds - age 2-4 years
Stretch-N-Grow Preschool Adventure - age 3-4 years
Baton Twirling Novice - age 3-5 and age 6 & up
Baton Twirling Beginner - age 6 & up
Jazz America Street Dance - age 4-6 and age 7-14
Self Defense - variety of levels for age 4-14
Cheerleading - age 4-6 and age 7-14
CPR - age 12 & up
American Red Cross Babysitting - age 11 & up

Some adult fitness classes offer youth age 12-17 to participate. Please see the program brochure for more information, available online at www.townofcary.org.

FITNESS, WELLNESS AND DANCE PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS

Cary Parks Recreation & Cultural Resources is currently offering currently offering the following programs for adults. For detailed information on dates, times and the registration process, please refer to the Program Brochure which is available in any Town facility or download a copy from the Town website.

Aerobics, beginner & intermediate - age 16 & up
Body Bar Resistance - age 13 & up
Cardio Jam - age 16 & up
Cardio Kickboxing - age 16 &up
Dance-IT - age 15 & up
Walkway to Fitness - all ages
Walking for wellness & fun - age 18 & up
Yoga, variety of styles offered - age 12 & up
T'ai Chi, variety of styles offered - age 15 & up
Qigong - age 15 & up
Karate - age 16 & up
TaeKwon-Do - age 18 & up
Belly Dance - age 15 & up
Salsa Dance - age 12 & up
Ballroom Dance - age 18 & up
Swing Dance - age 12 & up
Shag Dance - age 16 & up
Clogging Dance - age 15 & up
Line Dancing - age 18 & up
Two-Step Dance - age 16 & up
Square Dance - age 16 & up
Family Dynamics Wellness Workshops, Variety of topics - age 18 & up
MedStop Health & Wellness seminars, variety of topics - age 16 & up
CPR - age 12 & up
American Red Cross Babysitting - age 11 & up

COMMUNITY CENTERS OPEN GYM PASSES FOR BASKETBALL

The Community Center Gymnasiums are open for basketball. Specific times are set aside for each age group. Call any Community Center for a schedule of dates & times - Bond Park Community Center (919) 462-3970; Herbert C. Young Community Center (919) 460-4965; Middle Creek Community Center (919) 771-1295. Adult Cary residents and non resident pay per visit; nonresidents are admitted as space allows. Youth and teen open gym times and passes are available for Cary residents only. Passes can be purchased and used at any of the three centers. A parent or guardian must sign a copy of the open gym waiver, located at any Town Community center, for the purchase of youth or teen gym passes. Open Gym Fees are as follows:

Youth, age 8-12, $10 for 15 visits
Teen, age 13-17, $15 for 15 visits
Adult, age 18 & up, $2 Cary residents, $3 non residents per visit
Seniors, age 55 & up, free

Call (919) 469-4061 for more information. That number again is (919) 469-4061.

Community & Arts Centers Room Reservation and Rentals

The Town of Cary Community and Arts Centers provide a great spot to host a party or hold a meeting. Rentals are available for Cary residents or Cary based businesses only. Reservations for Sunday through Thursday are accepted no more than three months in advance and reservations for Friday and Saturday are accepted no more than 6 months in advance. Rental rates and fees vary based on room size and use. Other rules and fees apply per the rental agreement. For additional information, please contact the center you are interested in renting.

Bond Park Community Center (919) 462-3970
Cary Senior Center (919) 469-4081
Herbert C. Young Community Center (919) 460-4965
Middle Creek Community Center (919) 771-1295
Page-Walker Arts &History Center (919) 460-4963

YOUTH ATHLETIC LEAGUES - GENERAL INFORMATION

All youth sports sponsored by Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources emphasize fun, sportsmanship, and skill development. Youth T-ball, baseball, and softball for ages 6-19 are held in the spring and early summer with registration in early March. Youth basketball for 7-10 year olds is held in the fall and the 11-18 year olds play in the winter. Registration for the fall basketball league is held in late July with the winter league registration in October. Press 502 for current registration information for youth leagues. The Athletic Program staff offices are located in the Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Administrative Office 111 James Jackson Ave, Suite 201 The staff will be happy to answer any additional questions you may have at (919) 469-4062 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

YOUTH SPORTS CLINICS AND CAMPS

At various times throughout the year special sports clinics and camps for basketball, baseball, volleyball, golf and tennis are sponsored by Parks Recreation and Cultural Resources. These are typically held during teacher workdays, summer, or for year-round students. For current program registration information call 502. The Athletic Program staff offices are located in the Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Administrative Office 111 James Jackson Ave, Suite 201. To talk with someone on the athletic program staff please call (919) 469-4062 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

YOUTH ATHLETICS – CURRENT PROGRAM REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Youth Baseball & softball- Registration begins February 11
Youth USA Team Tennis - Registration beings February 11

Please call (919) 469-4062 to have registration information sent to you. If you or your child played baseball or softball last year, a registration for will be mailed to you automatically. For detailed information, please refer to the Program Brochure available online at town.

ADULT ATHLETIC LEAGUES - GENERAL INFORMATION

Don't stop playing as you grow older. Join one of the many athletic leagues sponsored by Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources - volleyball, softball, basketball and tennis. If softball is your game, we have Men's Church leagues, Men's modified, and Women's leagues in the spring and Men's Open and Co-Ed Leagues in the Fall.

ADULT ATHLETIC LEAGUES – CURRENT PROGRAM

Adult Basketball, men 35 & over - Registration begins January 7
USA Team Tennis, winter - Registration begins Jan 2
Men & Women Tennis, Spring Challenge Ladder - Registration begins January 21
Men, Women and Coed, Team Volleyball - Registration begins February 25
Mends Modified and Church Softball, Women's Open Softball - Registration begins March 4
Registration is taken from teams only. No individual registration is accepted. Team priority for registration is as follows
First priority - teams comprised of all Cary residents
Second priority - teams comprised partially of Cary residents.

Team fees are due at time of registration. Complete rosters and an additional fee for each non resident on the roster will be due the first week of practice. For detailed information, please refer to the Program Brochure. Call (919) 469-4062 to have registration information sent to you.

GAME CANCELLATIONS

Call for details.

RESCHEDULED GAME INFORMATION

Call for details.

TENNIS - GENERAL INFORMATION

Tennis is a great sport for all ages. Cary Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources maintains 17 lighted tennis courts for free play opportunities in addition to operating a variety of tennis programs for youth and adults. The courts are located at Cary Tennis Center 2727, Louis Stevens Drive; Middle Creek School Park 151 Middle Creek Park Ave; Annie Jones Park, 1414 Tarbert Drive, Robert V. Godbold Park, 215 NW Maynard Road, and Dunham Park at 519 Walnut Street. Tennis courts are available on a first come first serve basis. Leagues, events and programs through Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources have priority of use and may reserve courts for this purpose. Programs available throughout the year include Team Tennis Leagues, the Grand Prix Challenge Ladder, Women's morning tennis, tournaments, and lessons. For current information about registering for tennis programs please press 509. To talk with a staff person please call (919) 469-4062 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

CURRENT TENNIS PROGRAMS

Call for details.

TENNIS CANCELLATIONS

Call for details.

BOND PARK – GENERAL INFORMATION

Fred G. Bond Metro Park
801 High House Road
(919) 469-4100

Bond Park, a 310-acre facility, is one of the larger municipal parks in Wake County. The park design preserves the environment, offering opportunities for both passive and active recreation. All facilities are integrated into natural setting surrounded by trees. The park offers a 42-acre lake for fishing and boating, as well as picnic shelters, athletic fields, an amphitheater, trails, a large playground and the D.A.R.E. Challenge "ropes" course.

November-February: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily

March: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily

Saturdays, holidays: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

other days: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Saturdays, holidays: 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.

other days: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturdays, holidays: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

other days: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sailing, orienteering, and other programs are also offered at Bond Park. For boat rental and private boat launch information, please press 521. For picnic shelter reservation information press 522. The Bond Park boat house telephone number is (919) 469-4100. You can also visit us online anytime at www.townofcary.org.

BOND PARK BOAT RENTAL, LAUNCH, and Fishing INFORMATION

Enjoy boating at Fred G. Bond Park, 801 High House Road. Boats may be rented from the Bond Park Boathouse. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied on the boat by an adult and wear a personal flotation device (PFD). All adults renting sailboats or canoes must wear a PFD.

Boat Rental Hours:

April, May, September, October

Sat & Holidays 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sun 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

June - August

* Mon-Fri 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Sat & Holidays 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Sun 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Daily Boat Launch Fee $4/boat
Season Launch Pass $30

Fishing opportunities are available year-round at Bond Lake. There is no charge to fish from shore. All NC fishing regulations apply! North Carolina Fishing License Requirements Anyone 16 or older, fishing with artificial lures and/or out-side their county of residence, must have a fishing license. A license is not required for people fishing within their county of residence using natural bait and for those under 16 years of age. For additional information concerning size and creel limits, consult the NC Wildlife Resources Commission Fishing Regulations Digest available wherever fishing licenses are sold or at the Wildlife Resources Commission website (www.wildlife.state.nc.us).  No swimming or wading is allowed. The Bond Park Boathouse number is (919) 469-4100.

PICNIC SHELTER Reservations

Need a scenic location for your company picnic or family get-together? Cary Parks Recreation and Cultural Resources has picnic facilities available to you. Located at Bond Park, 801 High House Road, the Kiwanis Shelter with a large brick fireplace can hold up to 200 people. For smaller groups, the Buehler Shelter, also at Bond Park, is a great place for approximately 50. The Rotary Shelter, another large shelter with a capacity of 250, is located at Harold D. Ritter Park, 301 Lochmere Drive West. These shelters may be rented for any day during the months of April through October. Reservations may not be made more than 90 days in advance and require a damage deposit and rental fee. All reservations are taken in person at Bond Park, Herbert C. Young or Middle Creek Community Centers Current fees and detailed reservation information are available in the Program Brochure. Call (919) 469-4061 for further information.

Outdoor Recreation – CURRENT PROGRAMS

Orienteering, pre-registration not required. Offered on the second Saturday of each month. Meet at the Bond Park Boat House. 3$ for residents, $5 for nonresidents.

Ropes Course Fees: (per person)

1/2 day low course: $20
1/2 day high course: $40

Full day low and high course: $55

(Nonresidents add $5 for 1/2 day programs, $10 for full-day programs)

• Non-profit rates are available. Call Bond Park at (919) 469-4100 for details.

Stevens Nature Center at Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve - General Information

2616 Kildaire Farm Road
(919) 387-5980

Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve, located in South Cary, is a unique site of approximately 150 acres. The site features over two miles of trails, and includes a system of north-facing bluffs along Swift Creek, which support a population of Eastern Hemlock trees and other vegetation unusual to this area. The Nature Preserve is listed on the State Registry of Natural Heritage Areas and is classified as a State Nature and Historic Preserve. The Stevens Nature Center at Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve is a 3,700 square foot facility comprised of an exhibit hall, gift shop, a classroom for program activities, restrooms, and office space. The exhibit hall offers exhibits designed to explain the uniqueness and natural history of the area to the visitor, as well as to educate citizens about the environment.

Nature Preserve Hours:
9 a.m. - sunset

Nature Center Hours:
May-September
Mon - Sat: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Sundays: 1 p.m. - 7 p.m.
October-April
Mon - Sat: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sundays: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Nature Education –FAMILY PROGRAMS

Cary Parks Recreation & Cultural Resources is currently offering currently offering the following programs for families. For detailed information on dates, times and the registration process, please refer to the Program Brochure which is available in any Town facility or download a copy from the Town website.

Nature Education - PRE-SCHOOL PROGRAMS

Cary Parks Recreation & Cultural Resources is currently offering currently offering the following programs for preschool aged children. For detailed information on dates, times and the registration process, please refer to the Program Brochure which is available in any Town facility or download a copy from the Town website.

Nature Education - Youth Programs

Cary Parks Recreation & Cultural Resources is currently offering currently offering the following programs for school aged children. For detailed information on dates, times and the registration process, please refer to the Program Brochure which is available in any Town facility or download a copy from the Town website.

Nature Education - Adult Programs

Cary Parks Recreation & Cultural Resources is currently offering currently offering the following programs for preschool aged children. For detailed information on dates, times and the registration process, please refer to the Program Brochure which is available in any Town facility or download a copy from the Town website.

Adult Nature Programs - age 16 & up
Adult Nature Workshops - age 18 & up
Volunteer Workdays - age 13 & up

Nature Education - Group Programs

The professional staff at Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve offers special guided walks and programs for groups. A variety of natural history and environmental topics can be addressed on request. For reservations and fee information, please call Stevens Nature Center at (919) 387-5980 or visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

Cary SENIOR CENTER

120 Maury O’Dell Place
(919) 469-4081

This 17,000 square foot Cary Senior Center is a recreation and education facility designed by and for older adults of our community. Resources for Seniors, Inc. also has a staffed office within the Cary Senior Center and provides information and referral services to visitors.

Hours:
Mon - Thu: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Fri - Sat: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sun: Closed

CURRENT SENIOR PROGRAMS

Cary Parks Recreation & Cultural Resources is currently offering currently offering the following programs for preschool aged children. For detailed information on dates, times and the registration process, please refer to the Program Brochure which is available in any Town facility or download a copy from the Town website, www.townofcary.org.

SENIOR CITIZEN CLUBS

Join the fun and fellowship these clubs have to offer.

JORDAN HALL ARTS CENTER -GENERAL INFORMATION

908 North Harrison Avenue
(919) 469-4069

Jordan Hall Arts Center grew out of the Cary Arts Center, which was established in 1979. Since 1993, Jordan Hall has provided arts classes and activities for all ages. The center features an art gallery for monthly exhibits that promote and support local artists as well as regularly scheduled open studio time for potters, painters and portrait artists. Jordan Hall has a fully equipped ceramic art studio complete with extruder, slab roller, and potter’s wheel. The center is also the monthly meeting place for The Fine Arts League of Cary.

Mon-Thu: 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Fri: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Sat & Sun: CLOSED

Mon-Thu: 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Fri: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Sat: 9 a.m. - 4 .pm.
Sun: CLOSED

Visual Arts - PRE-SCHOOL PROGRAMS

Cary Parks Recreation & Cultural Resources is currently offering currently offering the following programs for preschool aged children. For detailed information on dates, times and the registration process, please refer to the Program Brochure which is available in any Town facility or download a copy from the Town website.

Visual Arts - School Aged PROGRAMS

Cary Parks Recreation & Cultural Resources is currently offering currently offering the following programs for school aged children. For detailed information on other programs, dates, times and the registration process, please refer to the Program Brochure which is available in any Town facility or download a copy from the Town website.

Visual Arts - Adult PROGRAMS

Cary Parks Recreation & Cultural Resources is currently offering currently offering the following programs for adults. For detailed information on other programs, dates, times and the registration process, please refer to the Program Brochure which is available in any Town facility or download a copy from the Town website.

Ceramic Arts for Youth and Adults 

Jordan Hall Arts Center has a spacious ceramic arts studio with five electric wheels, one designed for adaptation for a person in a wheelchair. The studio is equipped with a slab roller and small extruder. Clay and pre-mixed glazes are available. Kiln loading and firings are handled by staff. Both beginning and intermediate pottery classes are taught. For independent studio use an orientation session is required for those who have not enrolled in an arts center class. Orientation sessions are available by appointment and pottery room assistants are available selected days and times for technical assistance. For additional information call the center during operating hours at (919) 469-4069.

PAGE-WALKER ARTS AND HISTORY CENTER – GENERAL INFORMATION

119 Ambassador Loop
(919) 460-4963

The Page-Walker Arts & History Center was built as a hotel in 1868 by Town of Cary Founder Allison Francis Page. In 1979, the Page-Walker Hotel was listed on the National Register for Historic Places. In 1985, a citizen group, the Friends of the Page-Walker Hotel, joined with the Town of Cary to restore the deteriorated building as an arts and history center for the citizens of Cary. Today the center is alive with classes, events, performances, meetings, receptions and exhibitions, including fine arts exhibit featuring local and regional artists’ works. Press 494 for basic facility reservation information.

History & Heritage Arts Programs

Cary Parks Recreation & Cultural Resources is currently offering currently offering the following programs for adults. For detailed information on other programs, dates, times and the registration process, please refer to the Program Brochure which is available in any Town facility or download a copy from the Town website.

SPECIAL EVENTS CALENDAR

CONCERTS

For detailed information, please refer to the Program Brochure which is available in any Town facility or download a copy from the Town website at www.townofcary.org. or call (919) 469-4061.

Gallery Exhibits

For detailed information, please refer to the Program Brochure which is available in any Town facility or download a copy from the Town website. Or call (919) 469-4061.

ANIMAL ABUSE/CRUELTY

Owners of pets are required by law to provide adequate food, shelter and fresh water 24 hours a day. It is unlawful to beat or needlessly kill an animal, or to treat it in an inhumane manner. Instances of abuse or cruelty should be reported to the Animal Control Officer at (919) 319-4517. That's (919) 319-4517.

Your name will not be given to the owner; however, we ask that you leave your name and number for the Animal Control Officer to contact you for details. The Animal Control Officer will investigate all reports of animal abuse. Please remember that concerned citizens like you are sometimes the animal's only chance to receive help, so thank you for your willingness to notify Animal Control.

If you have any concerns about an animal that is badly groomed, sickly, receiving no exercise, and constantly tied, please notify Animal Control.

You should report any animal locked in a vehicle during hot weather. Provide location of vehicle, description and license plate number.

To report animal cruelty, call Animal Control at (919) 319-4517. That's (919) 319-4517.

ANIMAL BITES

All animal bites should be reported to Animal Control as soon as possible. It is important to get a description of the animal that has bitten you and, if possible, the owner's name and address. Animal Control's telephone number is (919) 319-4517. That's (919) 319-4517.

ANIMAL CONTROL EMERGENCY PROCEDURE

The Animal Control office hours are 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The telephone number (919) 319-4517.

However, if it is after hours, and you have an emergency such as an animal bite or injured or sick animal or a stray animal, please call (919) 469-4012, the Animal Control Emergency number. Call (919) 469-4012, and someone will help you.

DEAD ANIMAL ON OR ALONG ROADWAY

If you see an animal carcass on a public street, call the Department of Public Works & Utilities at (919) 469-4090 for removal. Animal carcasses which are found on personal property must be contained in a plastic bag or cardboard box and set at the curbside. Once again, call the Department of Public Works & Utilities at (919) 469-4090 to request curbside pick up. Dead animals will be removed from the street or curbside as soon as feasible after notification. A recorded message may be left after business hours.

For an index of messages pertaining to animal control, check message 111.

IMPOUNDED ANIMALS

Most animals picked up by Cary Animal Control are taken to the SPCA Shelter on Highway 70 East in Garner. The phone number is (919) 772-3203. The hours change periodically so it is best to call and find out prior to making a trip.

If you think your pet may be at the Shelter, you should go there in person to find your pet. The volume of strays impounded is so large that if you call, you may be told your pet is not there, when in fact it is.

All animals are kept for 5 days, at which time they are put to sleep or processed for adoption. Remember to contact Cary Animal Control at (919) 319-4517 if your pet is lost. Frequently, citizens choose to keep the animal while waiting for the owner to reclaim it, or the animal has been injured and is being kept by a veterinarian. To reclaim a pet, you must provide proof of a current rabies vaccination and a pet tag license. There is also a reclamation and board fee at the SPCA shelter.

For more information, call the SPCA at (919) 772-3203 or the Cary Animal Control Officer at (919) 319-4517.

INJURED OR SICK ANIMALS

To report an injured or sick animal contact Animal Control at (919) 319-4517. That number again is (919) 319-4517. Call (919) 469-4012 after normal business hours. Emergency assistance is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You also should report sick or injured wildlife. You should try to keep the animal in sight while waiting for the Animal Control Officer to arrive. Again, the number during business hours is (919) 319-4517. Call (919) 469-4012 after normal business hours.

LEASH LAW

The Town of Cary requires that all dogs and cats be on a leash when off the owner's property. Both dogs and cats can be loose on the owner's property, but they should be supervised by the owner. The owner's property does not include the sidewalk and parking lots.

No animals, even those on leashes, are allowed at the Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival or at designated special Town events.

If you want to report a dog or cat that is not in compliance with the leash law, you should call Animal Control at (919) 319-4517. You should provide the owner's name and address, if known, and a description of the animal. If you do not know the owner, ask someone in the neighborhood. If you cannot provide owner information, you should give a detailed description of the animal, including color of collar and the time of day it is usually out.

You can request a dog or cat trap be set on your property to capture the animal. Traps are not available for wildlife. Once the animal is captured, contact Animal Control to pick up the animal. For further information, call (919) 319-4517. That's (919) 319-4517.

LOST OR FOUND PETS

If you have lost a pet or have found an animal running loose, you should notify Animal Control as soon as possible at (919) 319-4517. When reporting a lost or found animal, provide a description including breed, size, color, sex, long or short hair, whether it is wearing a collar and tags, location where animal was lost or found, and your telephone number. The SPCA also should be notified.

Ask neighborhood children and mail carriers to be on the lookout. Post notices throughout the neighborhood. Place lost ad and check found ads in newspapers. Frequently citizens find pets and do not place ads in the paper, but choose to watch for the owner's lost ad. Even the most guarded pets occasionally escape; that's why pets should always wear a tag that identifies the owner. Frequently, indoor pets do not wear tags and when they get out, they are without identification.

Remember, to report a lost or found pet , contact Animal Control at (919) 319-4517. That number again is (919) 319-4517.

LOUD OR BARKING DOGS

Barking dogs bring almost daily complaints to the Cary Police Department, particularly in warm weather when windows are open. All barking dog complaints are investigated by Animal Control or the Police Department. Owners of barking dogs may be in violation of the Town's noise ordinance. In addition to being against the law, it is extremely inconsiderate to allow your dog to bark when unnecessary. If your dog is barking, investigate the cause. To report a dog that barks loudly and frequently, contact Animal Control at (919) 319-4517. That number again is (919) 319-4517.

Before you call the police, we urge you to first attempt to discuss the problem in a nice manner with the dog owner, since the owner may not be aware that the dog is barking when left alone. When handled in a nice manner, the dog owner is usually willing to correct the problem; however, if the problem continues, the Animal Control Officer will warn the dog owner. If that does not solve the problem, you may want to take a criminal summons against the dog owner. This action requires you to go to court and present your case to a judge. Pending your court appearance, you should document the dates and times of the barking.

MISCELLANEOUS ANIMAL QUESTIONS

• No animals are allowed at the Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival or at designated special Town events
• No dog is declared dangerous based on its breed
• Livestock and domestic fowl of all descriptions are prohibited in any area of the Town, except those areas zoned for agricultural purposes by the zoning ordinances.

NUISANCE ANIMALS

Any dog or cat can be declared a nuisance if it:

• Is getting into or turning over waste or garbage containers
• Is walking on or sleeping on automobiles of another
• Is damaging the real or personal property of anyone other than its owner
• Is repeatedly being or running at large
• Is being maintained in an unsanitary condition so as to be offensive to sight or smell
• Is not confined to a building or secure enclosure while in estrus (heat)
• Is being vicious or chasing, snapping at, attacking, or otherwise molesting others including, pedestrians, bicyclists, motor vehicle passengers, or domestic animals
• Is repeatedly or continuously barking, howling, whining, meowing or making other excessive noise
• Is being housed or restrained less than 5 feet from a public street, road or sidewalk such that it, in the discretion of the chief, the location of the animal poses a threat to the general safety, health and welfare of the general public
• Is by virtue of number or type, being offensive or dangerous to the public health, safety, or welfare
• Is diseased or dangerous to the health of the public

When a written and signed complaint has been made to the Chief of Police specifying the location and the nature of the complaint, the Police Department investigates and determines whether the animal should be declared a nuisance.

For further information, call Animal Control between 7:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at (919) 319-4517. That's (919) 319-4517.

PET LICENSE INFORMATION

A permanent pet license is required for any dog or cat 4 months of age or older in the Town limits of Cary. The license fee is due within 10 days after a dog or cat is brought into Town. After payment of the fee, a numbered tag is issued for the pet. The metal animal tag is required to be secured to the collar for both dogs and cats. All animal tag information is added to a computer data base that enables the Animal Control officer to immediately contact the owner if the animal is picked up. This is possible only if the tag is displayed on the collar. Failure to display the tag or the collar may result in a civil penalty of $20. To purchase an animal tag, you must show proof of a current rabies vaccination. Also, if you provide written proof from a licensed veterinarian that the animal has been spayed or neutered, the cost will be half of the normal fee. Call the Town's Finance Department at (919) 469-4052 for more information. That number again is (919) 469-4052.

RABIES

Rabies is a disease caused by a virus carried by infected animals. Wild animals such as raccoons, bats, and foxes are common carriers. These animals can infect a household pet; therefore, care should be taken to avoid situations where they may meet.

All animal bites, regardless of whether from a household pet or wild animal, should be reported to the Animal Control Officer, at (919) 319-4517. That's (919) 319-4517. Animal Control must record all incidents of animal bites in Cary. Furthermore, they can assist you in locating the animal that caused the bite, because it may need to be observed if it has not received a rabies vaccination.

All dogs and cats in Cary are required by Town code to be vaccinated against rabies at 4 months of age. This, of course, is one of the best prevention’s against rabies. Also, adults should caution children to use care when being approached by strange animals. For more information, call Animal Control at (919) 319-4517. For information about pet licenses, refer to message number 592.

WAKE COUNTY SPCA

The Wake County Chapter of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals routinely has animals available for adoption. The SPCA will spray and neuter all animals before leaving the shelter for adoption. It is not the responsibility of the new owner. The SPCA's office hours are changing constantly so call before making the trip.

If you find a lost animal, the local newspapers will run a free "found" advertisement for 3 days. Stray animals turned over to the SPCA are held 5 working days before they are offered for adoption. Once again the number for the SPCA is (919) 772-3203.

WILDLIFE PROBLEMS

From time to time, wild animals, such as raccoons, wander into residential areas. The animals may be dangerous and destructive, especially if they are rabid. Cary Animal Control advises citizens not to attempt to capture or trap wild animals without contacting Animal Control first. The Officer is best qualified to handle these animals. For additional information, call (919) 319-4517.

The most effective protection from raccoon problems, including rabies, is barriers and discouragement. Remove whatever it is that attracts raccoons and other wildlife to your property. Feed pets indoors if possible or take up the outdoor dishes and leftovers as soon as possible. Keep trash cans in the garage or utility room until trash pickup day. Fence your garden. Vaccinate your pets.

Home owners also are encouraged to eliminate places that could become raccoon dens. Fill in tree cavities, cap chimneys and seal off attics. But always make sure a raccoon is not inside first. For other tips, contact Animal Control at (919) 319-4517.

To remove nuisance wildlife, contact a pest control agency of your choice, which are listed in the yellow pages. There is a fee for their services. Cary Animal Control does not provide traps to capture nuisance wildlife.

AUCTION OF VEHICLES, BICYCLES & SURPLUS PROPERTY

Surplus Town of Cary vehicles and equipment are auctioned in a joint sale with the City of Raleigh. This auction is generally held in late summer or early fall. Bicycles and other found or unclaimed items are also auctioned periodically by the Cary Police Department. The auctions are advertised in the Cary News and the Raleigh News & Observer in the classified sections. For other information you can call the Purchasing Division at 469-4078 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. That number again, (919) 469-4078.

CEMETERY INQUIRIES

Hillcrest Cemetery, located off of Page Street, is operated by the Town of Cary. Inquiries regarding records or other information may be made by calling the Town Clerk's office at (919) 469-4011. All lots at Hillcrest Cemetery have been purchased. To add your name to the waiting list, please contact the Town Clerk's office at (919) 469-4011, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Hillcrest Cemetery's hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., April through August, and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., September through March, seven days a week. Burial services shall be scheduled generally between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. The Town is not responsible for opening or closing graves nor the scheduling of burials. Please refer these needs to a licensed mortuary. For information about the cemetery grounds, call the Town Parks Superintendent at (919) 469-4069, that's (919) 469-4069.

NOISE ORDINANCE

Because certain sounds at certain levels can be harmful to the health and welfare of citizens, the Town Council prohibits excessive and annoying sounds within the Town of Cary. The Town's noise ordinance regulates specific times certain noise sources can be operated and defines noise limits within the Town limits.

Events or actions may be prohibited if they cause a noise disturbance. These could include continuously barking dogs, noisy construction equipment, horns and signaling devices not being used for a danger warning, radios and TV sets, engine repair and testing. Copies of the noise ordinance are available from the Town Clerk's Office. The telephone number is (919) 469-4011.

If you suspect the Town's noise ordinance is being violated, contact the Cary Police Department at (919) 467-1911 or 911. Violation of this ordinance is a misdemeanor and could result in a fine of up to $500 and/ or up to 30 days in jail, or both.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION

Public transportation in Cary is provided by Triangle Transit Authority (TTA). For bus route and fare information, you may call TTA at (919) 549-9999. That's (919) 549-9999.

Disabled citizens and seniors may also take advantage of C-Tran, Cary’s low-cost, door-to-door combination van and bus system that operates in Cary by reservation only.. Call (919) 481-2020 for information on C-Tran, or visit us online at www.townofcary.org.

REPORT UNSAFE ACTS BY TOWN OF CARY EMPLOYEES

If you see a Town of Cary employee performing a job dangerously or driving a vehicle in an unsafe manner, please report the incident by calling (919) 469-4007. That's (919) 469-4007. Thank you for your help in keeping our employees safe.

HOW TO SELL TO THE TOWN OF CARY

If you are interested in becoming a vendor for the Town of Cary, please call the Purchasing Division at (919) 469-4078. That number again is (919) 469-4078. We will ask you to tell us about your business so that the Town will be able to ask for your quotes when we are seeking the particular goods and services that you can provide. That number again is (919) 469-4078.