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Albert Gallatin Extension Project

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1. Where is the new road?

Construction runs from the intersection of N. Water/Dobbins Pike/Albert Gallatin Avenue; across the RR tracks; down the side of the Sumner County Highway Department; across vacant land; to SR 109 where an elevated interchange is being built.

2. How long will this take?

Construction will last until the end of 2021.

3. What is the cost?

$31,742,289.00 for construction.

4. Who do I contact if I have questions?

If you have an emergency, call the police or fire department. If you have a non-emergency question, please contact Rosemary Bates at 615-946-0822 or rosemary.bates@gallatintn.gov

5. Why is the City building this road?

The City has been planning this road for nearly 14 years. Initially, the city planned to incur all the costs. The city was given an opportunity to apply for a grant through the Tennessee Department of Transportation, which it received, that is paying for 80% of the costs. The City’s share for construction is approximately $6.2 million. This road is the city’s northern bypass around Gallatin designed to relieve traffic through downtown on Hwy 31/Broadway/Nashville Pike.

6. I see blue flags, yellow flags, and white stakes in people’s yards or near the construction. What are they?

Blue flags mark current water lines. Yellow flags mark current gas lines. Most of the white stakes mark the edges of the construction easement.

7. Why are they doing construction at N. Water/Dobbins Pike/Albert Gallatin?

That intersection is being improved with widening, sidewalks, and a new mast-arm traffic signal.

8. What will they do at the intersection of Blythe/Old 109 North?

That will become a three-way intersection with a mast-arm traffic signal.

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Attorney

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1. Can the City Attorney's Office represent private citizens who do not have funds to hire a private attorney?

No, the City Attorney's Office may not represent individuals in private legal matters. The City Attorney's client is the City of Gallatin as a municipal government, not individual members of the public. There are many ways to find a lawyer to represent you. A couple of sources to consider are 1) Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee at 615-451-1880 and 2) the Nashville Bar Association's Lawyer Referral Service at 615-242-6546.

2. How do I file a claim with the City of Gallatin?

Fill out this claim form within 30 days of the incident. You may chose to mail, hand-deliver, email or fax the form. See Risk Management division for options on sending in your form.

3. How do I report a potential City of Gallatin code violation?

You can call Officer Jessica Jackson at 615-452-1313 or
report a problem online.

4. Should I report possible crimes or code violations to the City Attorney's Office?

No. Reports of possible crimes should be made to the Gallatin Police Department, 615-451-1313. Reports of possible building, housing or zoning code violations should be made to the City of Gallatin Building Codes Department, 615-451-5968.

5. How do I get a copy of the City of Gallatin Municipal Code?

The City Recorder maintains an official copy of the Municipal Code. You may view an unofficial copy of the Municipal Code by clicking this link.
Municipal Code

6. Where can I get a copy of a resolution or ordinance?

Visit the City Recorder's Office. The City Recorder maintains all ordinances and resolutions approved by City Council. Municode website.

7. How can I request a public record from the City of Gallatin?

The Public Records Act Request Form can be used to make a written request for copies of records. The more specific you are, the easier it will be to determine if such records exist in City files. The City will provide the requested documents to you, unless they are exempt from disclosure under the Public Records Act or another legal reason prevents the documents from being disclosed to the public. There may be a charge for copying. Visit the City Recorder's webpage for additional information and to obtain a copy of the request form.

Request for open records

8. What is the difference between the City Attorney and the District Attorney?

The City Attorney is the attorney for Gallatin in all of its functions as a municipal government. The role of the City Attorney is similar to that of the general counsel of a large private corporation. The attorneys in the Office provide legal advice and services to the Mayor, the City Council, City officials, staff, departments, boards, and commissions.

The District Attorney is an elected County official who investigates and prosecutes criminal activities throughout Sumner County. To contact the District Attorney of Sumner County call 615-451-5810.

9. I drove my car through a pothole in the street and sustained damage to my car. I feel the City was negligent. Will the City pay for this?

If you allege the City was negligent and you wish to pursue the matter, you must file a damage claim with the City of Gallatin Attorney’s Office.

10. A City vehicle or work crew damaged my property. What can I do?

If you believe you have a valid claim against the City, you must file a damage claim with the Risk Management Division.

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Building Code

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1. Why do I need a permit?

It is not only the law to obtain a permit, but a permit ensures the welfare of life and property. The plan review safeguards that the plans are drawn to meet the code requirements, while the predetermined inspections act as another layer of review during the construction process.

2. Do I need a permit for my project?

Building permits and inspections are required for commercial, public, private and residential new construction, additions and remodeling work, including decks, storage sheds 200 square feet or more, and swimming pools.

3. Who may obtain the permit?

Licensed contractors or qualified homeowners. For a homeowner to pull his/her own permit, the property may not be for sale or rent. The property owner must also sign an affidavit, accepting all liability.

4. Do I have to submit plans to the Fire Marshal's Office?

No. We will task the Deputy Fire Marshal for plan reviews as required during the plan review process.

5. How long does it take to get a permit?

Most residential plan reviews will take 7-10 days. In our current building climate, commercial plans will take approximately 2-3 weeks, if all information is provided at the time of submission.

6. What work is exempt from making an application for a permit?

The following do not require building permits but may still require Planning/Zoning permits:
- One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet. (You must check for the setbacks per your zoning.)
- Fences not over 6 feet high. (You must check for the setbacks per your zoning.)
- Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge.
- Water tanks supported directly upon grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2 to 1.
- Sidewalks and driveways.
- Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.
- Prefabricated swimming pools that are less than 24 inches deep.
- Swings and other playground equipment.
- Window awnings supported by an exterior wall which do not project more than 54 inches from the exterior wall and do not require additional support.

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CodeRED

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1. What is CodeRED and what is it used for?

CodeRED is a web-based critical communication solution that enables local public safety personnel to notify residents and businesses by telephone, text message, email, and social media of time-sensitive Information, emergencies, or urgent notifications. The system can reach hundreds of thousands of Individuals in minutes to ensure information such as evacuation notices, missing persons, inclement weather advisories, and more are quickly shared. Only authorized officials have access to send alerts using the CodeRED system.

2. When will CodeRED be used?

Any message regarding the safety of our residents and community will be disseminated using CodeRED. We will send out alerts via phone, text, email, and social media in a variety at situations including boil water notices, gas leaks, evacuation notices, police activity, fire emergencies, missing persons, and more. This is a community alert system to ensure you remain informed of Important information. Please keep in mind that as you register to receive CodeRED alerts, you have the ability to select the types of messages you wish to receive and your preferred means of communication.

3. Is there a cost to register for CodeRED?

No, registering tor CodeRED phone calls, text messages, and email are free. Simply sign up on our enrollment website and select your preferred means of communication.

4. How will I know when CodeRED is calling?

A CodeRED message will have the caller ID number 866-419-5000 for emergencies and caller ID number 855-969-4636 for non-emergencies. We suggest that you program these numbers into your cell phone as a "new contact" and use "CodeRED" as the contact name. It you need to replay the message received, you can dial this number and listen to the message again in its entirety.

5. Why is CodeRED important to me?

CodeRED is an important to tool to help keep you informed and prepared tor any emergencies that may occur in our area. Officials will send messages to alert you of emergency details, instructions, or precautions that you need in order to make well-informed decisions and remain safe. This system is precise enough to geo-target residents within an exact area of impact, so that only those people who are affected by an emergency situation are notified.

6. How do I sign up?

Visit our website and enter the required information online (address. name, phone number(s) and email). This is the quickest way to sign up because the information you supply is immediately registered in the system. If do not have Internet at home, please consider visiting a library or asking a friend or family member tor assistance.

7. Does CodeRED already have my telephone number?

No resident should assume that their information is in the system. Please visit the CodeRED Community Notification Enrollment page to register online.

8. Can I register more than one phone number or email for my address?

Yes. you can register more than one phone number and/or email address for your location when you register for CodeRED. Please note that it is highly recommended you register at least one phone number and one email address to ensure that you will receive CodeRED alerts in the event of a power outage or an incident that may occur late at night when you are generally asleep.

9. I have a cordless phone and it will not work when the power goes out. How will the system contact me?

Make sure to have at least one working corded telephone on hand for these situations. However, when signing up for CodeRED, you may indicate both a primary and alternative phone number. Cell
phones and/or work phone numbers can be entered as alternatives. Both your primary and your alternative phone numbers will be contacted in the event of a CodeRED notification.

10. What do I do if I receive a CodeRED message?

If you receive a CodeRED phone call, listen carefully to the entire message. You can repeat the message by pressing any key. Do not call 911 for further information unless directed to do so, or you need immediate aide from the police or fire department. If you receive a CodeRED email or text message, please be sure to read the entire message carefully and follow all instructions.

11. What if I miss a CodeRED phone call?

The CadeRED system will leave a message on your answering machine or voicemail it you miss a CodeRED phone call. It you do not have an answering machine, the system will consider the call as "incomplete" and will attempt to call again after several minutes have passed. If your phone line is busy, CodeRED will try two more times to connect. At any point, you may re-dial the 800 number on your caller ID to hear a replay of the message sent.

12. Do I ever need to renew my registration?

Renewals are not necessary as long as your contact information has not changed If you move; however, you must update your information to ensure you will continue receiving these valuable notifications.

13. What is the CodeRED Mobile Alert app?

CodeRED offers a mobile app for Android and iPhone devices. All residents and business owners are encouraged to download the free app to receive alerts based on the geo-location of your phone. As you travel throughout other CodeRED communities. you can receive important alerts that include community emergency, and severe weather information. To download the CodeRED Mobile Alert app, visit Google Play or the App Store.

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Events

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1. What time does the city allow trick or treating?

The city does not control when Halloween trick-or-treating occurs in the city. As a general rule, families tend to "trick-or-treat" on October 31 from 5-9pm. Use the search bar at the top of the page to find updated information on trick-or-treating on the downtown square and for "Trunk or Treat" celebrated each year.

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Open Records

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1. How do I submit an open records request?

Obtain and complete an open records request form to the City Recorder’s Office. You may present the request in person or email. Attach a copy of your government issued ID with each request. 

2. Is there a cost for open records?

There is no fee for inspecting public records, but there is a minimal fee for providing copies or other media. 

3. What is the timeline for fulfilling a records request?

The City must provide the information as soon as possible if readily available or fulfill the request within seven (7) business days. If the request will not be available within the seven (7) business days a timeline will be given. 

4. How do I receive the requested records?

Requests for inspection only are to be scheduled for dates and times through the City Recorder’s Office. There is no charge for inspections. Requests for copies can be sent electronically, via mail, or picked up in person once payment has been received. The requester will receive an estimate of reasonable charges before a request for copies is completed. 

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Planning - Signs

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1. Do I need a sign permit to install, modify or relocate a sign?

Yes, a sign permit is required to install new signs, modify or change sign faces of existing signs and to relocate a sign from one property to another.

2. Are temporary signs permitted?

Some temporary signs are permitted under specific requirements as indicated in Subsection 13.07.060 of the Gallatin Zoning Ordinance.

3. Are signs permitted in the public rights-of-way or on utility poles?

No signs are permitted in the rights-of-way including on utility poles. The rights-of-way is considered between the utility poles, sidewalks and/or ditch and the edge of the road.

4. How do I determine how much signage I can have?

The total wall-mounted sign allowance is based on the width of the front façade and the monument sign allowance is based on the width of the property line. Businesses are permitted to have equal to 1 square foot per 1 linear foot of the front face of their business or property line depending upon the type of sign. Example: A 50 foot wide front façade is permitted to have a total of 50 square foot of wall signs. A 100 foot wide front property line is permitted to have a monument sign face equal to 100 square foot. There is a maximum square foot permitted per zoning district.

5. Are digital signs permitted?

Yes, digital signs are permitted on monument signs with restrictions as indicated in Subsection 13.07.109 of the Gallatin Zoning Ordinance.

6. Do window signs require a permit?

Yes, exterior window signs are considered permanent wall-mounted signs and are calculated as part of the total square footage of signs for the business.

7. Is there a maximum number of wall-mounted signs?

No, however the combined total square foot of all wall signs cannot exceed the permitted square footage for the business.

8. How many monument signs can I have?

One monument sign is permitted per street front with a maximum of three permitted for the property.

9. Do temporary signs require a permit?

At this time only a temporary banner requires a permit. As of July 1, 2017 all permitted temporary signs will require a permit.

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Property Taxes

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1. Who determines the amount of my property taxes?

The Sumner County Tax Assessor assess the value of your property and the City Council sets the tax rate. An example for a residential tax formula is:

$100,000  Appraised Value     $25,000  Assessed Value

X     25%  Assessment            X .8001  Current Tax Rate

$25,000  Assessed Value        $247.50 + $248 Rounded Taxes Due

2. Can I pay taxes online?

Yes.Visit gallatintn.gov to search or pay property taxes. 

online portal.

3. Can I make payments on my property taxes?

Yes, five (5) equal payments of the total tax due. Payments are only allowed on current taxes. 

4. How are property taxes billed?

Property taxes are billed on a calendar year basis (January 1 to December 31). The tax bill will be mailed to the owner of records as of January 1. 

5. How do I know if my mortgage company has received my tax information?

The property owner is responsible for supplying the tax information to their mortgage company. 

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Public Works - Environmental Services

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1. What Items should not be placed in my container?

Please do not place brush, dirt, bricks, rocks, tires, hazardous materials (such as hypodermic needles, paint, muriatic acid and gasoline), or building materials (such as lumber, drywall, shingles and ceramic tile) in the container. Contact the Sumner County Resource Authority at (615) 452-1114 about proper disposal of these items.

2. Why do I keep getting notes left on my can from Environmental Services?

If for any reason the driver has difficulty dumping a container, the driver has been equipped with notification forms, which inform the resident/owner of any issues and allow us to provide service more quickly and efficiently.

3. I have been instructed to purchase a new container. How do I do this?

You can order a new container from the City for $56.00 by phone at (615) 451-5895 or go to the City Recorder’s Office at City Hall (132 W Main Street). After the container is purchased, the City will deliver it to your home in 1-2 business days. Containers can also be purchased from private vendors, but must meet City specifications.

4. Can I burn my leaves and small branches?

Any burning in the City must be done by first obtaining a permit through the Gallatin Fire Department (615) 452-2771. Environmental Services will pick up leaves and small branches stored in recyclable paper yard waste bags. To schedule a pickup call (615) 452-2147.

5. How should one dispose of hazardous waste?

There is a Sumner County Hazardous Waste Disposal in the fall of every year. This year (2022), it will be at Moss Wright Park on October 29, 2022 from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Contact the Sumner County Resource Authority 615-452-1114 for further details 

6. Will the City pick up brush or tree limbs?

Yes, if you are a City of Gallatin trash customer, you can place the tree limbs and brush at the curb (outside of roadway and not covering the sidewalk, water meter or drainage ditch) in 15-foot sections or smaller. There is no need to call it in. The next brush truck in the area will pick it up. Please note brush pick-up can take up to 6 weeks, depending on recent weather conditions and route timing.

7. What if I need the City to pick up more than a trailer full of brush or tree limbs?

The remainder can be picked up on the following route (which fluctuates seasonally but ranges from two to six weeks). For immediate removal, the additional pickup can be requested at a cost of $75 per load. Upon receipt of payment, a driver will be dispatched.

8. What if I have items that will not fit into my trash container?

All bagged trash must be placed in the curbside rollout cart for pickup. Items to large or too heavy such as refrigerators, couches, mattresses, stoves, ranges etc. can be scheduled for a Friday pickup by calling (615) 452-2147 on Monday thru Thursday.

9. How do I dispose of bagged yard waste?

Bagged yard waste needs to be placed curbside in recyclable paper yard waste bags. Be aware that these bags will not hold up well after getting damp, so minimize the amount of time they are stored outside. Contact (615) 452-2147 to schedule your leaf/lawn bag pickup. It is best to put them out the day before or the day of pickup. With the exception of holiday weeks, the pickup will occur on the day following your trash pickup.

10. I am new to Gallatin and need to set up trash service. What do I do?

A trash service application can be obtained at Gallatin Public Works (641 Long Hollow Pike), Gallatin Public Utilities (239 Hancock Street), or on the City website under Garbage Collection - New Service. The application can be emailed to Rosemary Gammons or dropped off at either of the locations above. After the application has been received, you will need to provide the Environmental Services division with the serial number of the container you intend to use before service can begin. This number is stamped on the front of most cans. Contact (615) 452-2147 to report your serial number of if you have any further questions or concerns.

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Recorder's Office - Business Licenses

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1. What is a business license?

A business license is an annual tax for doing business within the city limits of Gallatin. Gallatin Municipal Code requires that you obtain a license when you conduct any business activity within the City even if your business is located outside the city limits or you have a business license from another city.

2. Who is required to have a business license?

Everyone that conducts business in the City limits of Gallatin must obtain a business license if the annual gross revenue is over $3,000.

3. How do I apply for a city business license?

Business license applications are available in the City Recorder’s Office or online. The process begins and ends in the Recorder’s Office, but other Departments are involved. The business license application fee is $15. There may be other fees required for opening a business.

4. Is there a limit on how much money I can earn before requiring a business license?

Yes.  If you earn less than $3,000 you are not required to obtain a business license.  If you earn less than $10,000 you are required to obtain a minimal business license.  If you earn more than $10,000 you are required to obtain a standard business license.

5. Do state licensed contractors need a business license?

Yes. Any licensed contractor by the State Contractor’s Board must obtain a business license if conducting business in the City that will gross annual revenue over $50,000. 

6. Are there any restrictions on where I do business?

Every business must meet the Planning/Zoning and Codes requirements to ensure that the business activity and site are compatible. Before signing any lease or rental agreement, check with the City to make sure your business activity is appropriate for the zoning and that it will not heavily impact the neighborhood or require special parking considerations.

7. If I work out of my home do I need a business license?

Yes. 

8. How do i report my earnings?

All standard business licenses earnings are reported/paid to the Tennessee Department of Revenue at tntap.tn.gov or 615-253-0600 by April 15^th of each year.  Minimal business license earnings are paid to the city.

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Stormwater Utility

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1. What is stormwater runoff?

Stormwater runoff is the water that flows off roofs, driveways, parking lots, streets and other hard surfaces during rain storms. Stormwater runoff is also the rain that flows off grass surfaces and wooded areas that is not absorbed into the soil. The runoff that is not absorbed into the ground pours into ditches, culverts, catch basins and storm sewers. It does not receive any treatment before entering the streams and lakes.

2. What is stormwater pollution?

Water from rain or melting snow either seeps into the ground or “runs off” to lower areas, making its way into streams, lakes, and other water bodies. On its way, runoff water can pick up and carry many substances that pollute water. Examples of common pollutants include fertilizers, pesticides, pet wastes, sediments, oils, salts, trace metals, grass clippings, leaves and litter. Stormwater polluted runoff can be generated anywhere people use or alter the land, such as farms, yards, roofs, driveways, construction sites, and roadways.

3. Why is stormwater runoff a problem?

As precipitation falls on undeveloped areas, it is primarily absorbed into the ground or slowly runs off into streams, rivers and other water bodies. However, development resulting in rooftops and paved areas prevent water from being absorbed and create a faster rate and cumulative amount of runoff. This development often causes localized flooding or water-quality issues.

4. Why do we need to manage our stormwater runoff?

Stormwater runoff needs to be managed just as any other natural resource. First, it is needed to minimize damages that may occur when stormwater runoff exceeds the capacity of the pipes and open channels used to carry stormwater to our rivers and streams. Second, it is also needed to maintain the quality of our natural watercourses as drinking water supplies and for recreational activities such as swimming, fishing, water skiing, etc.

5. What is the city doing about stormwater runoff problems?

Historically, the City has performed maintenance of the stormwater collection system, which includes cleaning, repair and replacement of the City’s stormwater infrastructure. When funding has been available in the past, the City has implemented a small number of flooding and drainage improvement projects. The partnership with the Army Corps of Engineers and future planning improvement projects will address this issue in a more comprehensive manner. 

Also, the Federal Government has mandated that all cities the size of Gallatin implement a series of programs and services to improve water quality. These mandates include programs to regulate development, inform/educate the public, and the identification of potential pollution sources throughout the City.

6. Who owns the stormwater system?

Individual property owners own the stormwater system. Currently, in most cases, the owner of record is the responsible party to accept, to maintain, to add and to discharge stormwater flows. These systems routinely cross City-maintained property that is generally located within public street rights-of-way.

7. How does the City currently pay for its stormwater services?

Stormwater services are primarily funded from revenue derived from property taxes collected by the City, which are held in the City’s General Fund. As such, stormwater must compete for these funds with other City services such as parks, roads, fire, police, etc. Most stormwater related work is performed by either the Public Works or the Engineering departments.

Although the city has done a good job managing the existing program on a limited budget, the backlog of stormwater projects to address significant flooding issues in the City has grown and the new, federally mandated water quality programs that must be implemented have strained existing resources. Due to the high demand on the General Fund over the past several years, the City is not currently able to set aside enough funds to adequately address all the City’s stormwater needs.

8. Why has the City chosen to implement a separate fee for stormwater management?

By establishing a dedicated funding source through stormwater fees, the City can ensure that the revenue required to manage and maintain this important system is available. A stormwater utility program will enable the City to take a more proactive approach to stormwater management. The City will be able to provide an increased level of system maintenance and repair that is necessary to support the aging infrastructure in Gallatin. In addition, the utility fees will enable the City to construct necessary capital improvement projects to reduce the risk to public health and safety from flooding. Finally, the fees will support the development of a comprehensive stormwater management and water quality improvement plan, as mandated by Federal and State governments.

9. What is the City’s responsibility for stormwater?

The City is responsible for managing all aspects of stormwater within its jurisdiction. The City operates and maintains drainage facilities that are located within the public right-of-way or public easements. The City is also responsible for the water quality of natural streams within its jurisdiction as designated by both the State and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The City does not maintain facilities that are located on private property or that fall under the jurisdiction of other local governments.

10. How did the City of Gallatin develop its stormwater utility program?

In the spring of 2017, the City hired an independent consulting firm to perform a review of the City’s current stormwater program and to identify long-term funding needs to address city-wide flooding concerns and regulatory requirements. A rate model was developed to evaluate potential rate structures and levels to fund the City’s program. During the budget cycle in 2018, the City Council will hold the final vote to approve the individual rate for the stormwater utility program.

11. What is the basis for the fee that is charged?

The stormwater utility fee is based on the square footage of impervious surface area on your lot. The vast majority of utilities across the country have found this to be the most equitable way to charge and collect revenues for this program. A stormwater utility fee is similar to a water or sewer fee. In essence, customers pay a fee related to the amount of runoff generated from their site, which is directly related to the amount of impervious surface on the site.

12. What is impervious surface area?

Impervious surface area is any surface that does not readily absorb water and impedes the natural infiltration of water into the soil. In terms of the ordinance, it means the number of square feet of horizontal surface covered by buildings, and other impervious surfaces. Common examples include roofs, driveways, parking areas, sidewalks, patios, decks, tennis courts, concrete or asphalt streets, crushed stone and compacted gravel surfaces.

13. Why do I have to pay a stormwater fee?

The City is responsible for providing and maintaining infrastructure for drainage and flood control as well as compliance with new Federal and State regulations on water quality. This includes installation and maintenance of storm drains, inlets, and ditches as well as ensuring State programs such as erosion and sediment control are provided on construction sites.These services are done to protect personal and public property as well as provide for a healthy environment. Funding is not provided by Federal or State government for these services.

14. When will the stormwater fee take effect?

The stormwater charge will appear on the Gallatin Public Utilities bill starting in June of 2018.

15. Why is there a stormwater fee instead of a tax?

A property's value does not affect runoff, so property taxes are not the most equitable way to pay for stormwater services. For example, a high-rise building and a shopping mall may have similar value and pay similar property taxes. However, the shopping mall produces more runoff because of the amount of parking and rooftops. The fee system ensures the shopping center pays a higher stormwater fee than the high rise.

16. Are tax-exempt properties also exempt from the stormwater fee?

No, because it is a fee - not a tax. Taxes are based on the value of the property. The stormwater fee is assessed based on the amount of impervious surface on the property (i.e. hard surfaces such as roofs, driveways and parking lots), which is directly related to the amount of runoff the property produces. The runoff generated by these impervious surfaces contributes to pollution and flooding problems and, therefore, all property owners should pay their share of the costs.

17. What is a Single Family Unit (SFU)?

A SFU is the average square footage of the impervious surface area (measured in square feet) for a single family residential property determined pursuant to the City’s proposed ordinance. That amount is 3,650 square feet. The SFU was determined by performing detailed measurements of impervious surfaces contained on a representative sample of single family residential properties across the City. The resulting data was analyzed and the median impervious surface value for the data set determined the SFU value.

18. How will single-family residential properties be billed?

Most single-family homes will be charged a constant monthly rate in the $5 range. This fee is currently estimated and will be finalized by City Council vote later this spring. For equity purposes, the City is considering a tiered rate system, whereby very small homes will pay a slightly lower rate and very large homes will pay a slightly higher rate. The City’s fee will appear on the Gallatin Public Utilities bill that you receive each month.  

19. How will non-single residential properties (such as duplexes, apartments, condos, etc.) be billed?

If you are located in a non-single family property, the monthly fee for individual dwelling units will be prorated based on a comparison of the typical size of your dwelling unit as compared to the typical single family home. If you are the owner of a complex that receives the utility bill for multiple units, you will receive a charge for each dwelling unit in your complex. The City’s fee will appear on the Gallatin Public Utilities bill that you receive each month.

20. How are non-residential property fees determined and billed?

All non-residential properties will be billed at a rate based on their measured impervious area. To determine the monthly fee, divide the total impervious area of your property by 3,650 square feet (or one Single Family Unit) to obtain the number of SFUs and multiply by the base single family rate (currently estimated at approximately $5 per month per SFU). Impervious areas were determined by analyzing aerial photographs to identify the amount of impervious surface on each property. For the majority of properties, the City’s fee will be billed on the Gallatin Public Utilities bill. However, in some circumstances, alternative billing methods may be used.

21. Is there anything I can do to reduce my fee?

Yes, the City is in the process of developing a fee reduction/credit manual that will provide opportunities for customers to reduce their monthly fee. Credits/reductions will be awarded to customers that install best management practices on site that reduce the runoff burden to the City’s stormwater system. More information will be available in the City’s Stormwater Utility Fee Credit Manual.

22. What will the money collected by the Stormwater Utility be used to pay for?

The revenues generated by this fee will be used to fund all stormwater-related services, which include:

• Associated property acquisitions
• Construction of necessary capital improvement projects
• Enforcement of the City’s stormwater ordinances
• Planning for future impacts
• Stormwater infrastructure maintenance and repairs

The fee will also pay for annual compliance requirements of the City’s NPDES MS4 permit, which is a program mandated by the State and Federal government for all communities similar in size to Gallatin.

23. Do other cities have a stormwater fee?

At least 24 cities/counties in Tennessee (and over 2,000 nationwide) currently have a stormwater fee. Many local governments in Middle Tennessee have already implemented similar fee programs, including:

• Franklin
• Goodlettsville
• Lavergne
• Lebanon
• Murfreesboro
• Nashville
• Portland
• Smyrna
• Spring Hill
• Springfield
• White House

24. What are the goals of the City of Gallatin’s stormwater program?

The stormwater program focuses on reducing the potential for the loss of life or property due to flooding and improving and protecting the quality of our lakes, rivers and streams.

25. What are some examples of drainage problems?

Drainage problems may include roadway or structural flooding, clogged or failing underground pipes and culverts, stream bank erosion and stormwater pollution affecting a stream.

26. Why do I have to pay when I do not have any drainage problems?

Everyone in the City benefits from the Stormwater Management Program. When stormwater runs off your property, the City must have a program and funding to manage the increase in runoff and pollutants. Direct benefits may include:

• Providing safe passage on roadways during storms
• Protecting your property from upstream runoff
• Protecting property downstream from your runoff
• Complying with Federal and State mandates
• Educating our children about pollution
• Improving water quality

27. I have a drainage problem in my yard. Who do I call to get help with this problem?

You can call the City of Gallatin Public Works at 615-451-5909. We will investigate your concern and advise you of what action can be taken.

28. Where can I get more information regarding the stormwater utility fee?

Any questions regarding the Gallatin Stormwater Utility should be directed to the City’s Stormwater Management Program at 615-451-5965. The primary contact is Jennifer Watson - email Jennifer Watson.

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Traffic Tickets

Show All Answers

1. Can I change my court date?

Gallatin Municipal Court allows one courtesy extension for a court appearance. Call 615-451-5893 to make that request.

2. Can I go to traffic school?

You must appear in Court and that decision is determined by the Judge. 

3. Do I need an attorney to represent my case?

No, it is not necessary to hire an attorney, but you have that option if you wish. 

4. What if I can't pay my citation?

You must appear in Court and the Court Clerk will set up a payment plan. 

5. What if I miss my court date?

If you fail to appear in Court or pay your citation, the Department of Safety may suspend your driver’s license. 

6. Can I plead not guilty?

Yes. If you plead not guilty the Judge will give you optional dates to continue the case for a trial. 

7. Can I pay my ticket before the court date and keep from having to go to court?

Yes. The citation amount will need to be paid by the court date on your ticket. You may pay in person at the Gallatin City Recorder’s Office at 132 West Main St. Room 112 from 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday or online.

You may also mail your check or money orders to:

Gallatin City Court

132 W Main Street Room 112

Gallatin, TN 37066

8. Do red light camera tickets go on your record?

No. There is a $50 fine and no points are reported.