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1. How many dogs can I have?

Only three dogs per address are allowed. There are some exceptions for dogs housed in kennels or animal hospitals.

2. Do I need to license my dog?

The City of Fernley's license requrement is described in Title 7, Chapter 1 of the Fernley Municipal Code. In general, all dogs in the City over six months old need to be licensed. All dogs must be vaccinated for rabies.

3. How much are the license fees?

The annual fees for dog licenses and tags, are as follows:

• Natural - $10
• Neutered / spayed - $5
• Duplicate tags - $1

The license or tag is valid for a period of one year from the date of issuance.

4. Does Animal Control pick up domestic or feral cats?

No. If you have a domestic cat or kitten that you can no longer care for or do not want, the Nevada Humane Society is the only local cat assisting agency at this time. Fernley Animal Control does not pick up cats but we can provide you with a live trap to capture a feral cat in your yard so you can take it to the Nevada Humane Society or other rescue group.

Feral cats are simply abandoned offspring of domestic cats and are primarily the result of people failing to spay or neuter their cats, or people abandoning their cats. These cats survive as best they can - near restaurants, shopping areas, ranches, and other rural areas. Feral cats often live in loose groups or colonies and usually go out of their way to avoid human contact.

Feral cats are almost impossible to socialize. Like other wild animals, they should not be handled without following instructions from feral cat rescue groups or shelters.

5. What should I do if my pet or someone is bitten by an animal?

If there is a serious incident, call 911 or seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Animal bites are investigated by Fernley Animal Control. If you have an animal bite to report, please call us at 775.784.9801 during business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

If you need assistance after business hours, please contact the Lyon County Sheriff's Office at 775.575.5530.

If you are bitten by an animal or have knowledge of anyone being bitten by any animal, state law requires that the incident be reported due to the possibility of exposure to rabies. It is important to obtain as much information as possible about the animal such as description, location, owner information, vaccination history, etc.

6. What should I do if I find a dead animal on my property or on the road?

Fernely Animal Control will remove dead animals from city roads and rights of way free of charge. Call 775.784.9801 to report dead animals.

Dead animals on state roads and rights of way, include State Route 95A, State Route 50A, Interstate 80, and State Route 828 (Farm District Road) should be reported to the Nevada Department of Transportation at 775.688.1547.

7. What should I do if I have found a stray animal?

If you have found a dog or cat, please call Fernley Animal Control at 775.784.9801. We will take a found animal report so that, if the owner calls to report a lost animal, we can put them in touch with you.

We can make arrangements to pick up a stray dog and take it to our designated shelter, Lyon County Animal Services in Silver Springs. We cannot pick up lost cats but we will try to maintain lists of both lost and found cats to possibly reunite the cat with its owner.

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1. I am a victim of domestic violence. Where can I get help?

Local Victim Domestic Battery Services                             

Community Chest                                                                    

Kelly Ibarra                                                                              

PO Box 980                                                                           

Virginia City, Nevada 89440                                                    

(775) 720-0007                                                                        

County General Victim Services

Heather Benson

Lyon County Human Services

620 Lake Avenue   

Silver Springs, Nevada 89429

(775) 575-1703

2. I have a private or personal legal matter I need to discuss with an attorney. May I speak to the City Attorney about these issues?

The City Attorney handles litigation involving the City of Fernley only. For private matters, consult a private attorney or legal service agency. If you need an attorney but can't afford to pay for one, there are agencies which may assist you, such as Nevada Legal Services.

3. I have a traffic ticket I want to resolve. Who do I talk to?

Please contact the Fernley Municipal Court at 775-784-9870.

4. How do I order discovery?

Discovery/Request for a report for misdemeanor criminal cases prosecuted by the City of Fernley can be ordered by sending a written request to the City Attorney's Office. These reports will ONLY be released in redacted form to the victim and the defendant.

Non-Lawyer Discovery Request Form

5. I have just received a subpoena to appear at trial in Fernley Municpal Court. What if I am busy that day?

A subpoena is a command by the court, and your appearance is not optional, it is required. A bench warrant could be issued for your failure to appear. The City Attorney's Office will want to speak to you prior to trial, so it is a good idea to call the City Attorney's Office upon receipt of the subpoena to arrange to speak with the City Attorney or the assistant. The City Attorney can be reached by calling 775-784-9860.

6. I have a question about a felony case. Who do I ask?

All felony cases in Lyon County are handled by the Lyon County District Attorney's Office and they can be reached by calling 775-575-3353.

7. Who do I contact for information about a court date or an outstanding warrant?

Information about court dates or outstanding warrants can be obtained by calling the Fernley Municipal Court at 775-784-9870.

8. How can I report a crime?

The Lyon County Sheriff's Office handles criminal matters and they can be reached by calling 775-463-9600. If it is an emergency, please dial 911.

9. Who do I contact with questions about performing Community Service?

When you were ordered by the Fernley Municipal Court to perform Community Service, you were given instructions on the day of sentencing, regarding dates and times. For questions, you may contact the Municipal Court at 775-784-9870.

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1. How do I contact the City Manager's Office?

You may contact the City Manager's Office by calling 775-784-9858.

2. How do I contact the Mayor or Councilmembers?

The following is a list of contact phone numbers for each elected official. 

Mayor Roy Edgington: 775-784-9857

Councilwoman Ward One, Raymond Lacy: 775-784-9852

Councilman Ward Two, Dan McCassie: 775-784-9855

Councilman Ward Three, Stan Lau: 775-784-9854 

Councilman Ward Four, Albert Torres: 775-784-9853

Councilman Ward Five, Fran McKay: 775-784-9856

Learn more about the Mayor & City Council

3. How do I obtain copies of meeting agendas and minutes?

View public meeting agendas and minutes. Audio recordings are available in our document center.

You may also contact the City Clerk's Office by calling 775.784.9830.

4. When are the City boards and commissions meetings held, and are they open to the public?

We value your attendance and input at our meetings, and the public is always encouraged to attend. 

Regular Council Meetings are the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month at 5:00 pm in the City Hall Council Chambers.

Fernley Planning Commission meets the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 5:00 pm in the City Hall Council Chambers.

Neighborhood Watch meetings are the 4th Thursday of each month at 6:00 pm in the City Hall Community Room.

Fernley Convention & Tourism Authority Board meets twice a year, once in June and again in December. Day/time will be posted a couple of weeks prior to meeting.

5. How do I request copies of public records?

To request public records from the City of Fernley, contact the City Clerk's Office by calling 775.784.9830 or complete the online request form. 

6. Where is City Hall located?

City Hall is located at 595 Silver Lace Blvd Fernley, NV 89408.

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1. How do I contact the City Manager's Office?

You may contact the City Manager's Office by calling 775-784-9858.

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1. What is OpenGov?

OpenGov is a financial transparency website which displays government finances over a multi-year period. The default view displays usually displays expenses broken down by department.

2. How do I select the data I want to see?

To focus on specific data - like a fund, department, expense type, or any combination - use the menu on the left side panel. The "By" drop-down allows you to specify which breakdown you want the graphs and table rows to represent on the graph. You can analyze the expense and revenues data by fund, department, or type.

3. Can I select more than fund or departments?

Yes. Use the Data Filter on the left side panel to make specific selections within the data. The Data Filter shows you the hierarchical relationships of Funds, Departments, and Account Types. You'll notice the title of the graph you are viewing on top along with the account type selector. You can use the filter to see the data of most interest to you.

4. How do I see the actual numbers within the graph?

Hover over any area of the graph to see the actual or budgeted amounts for that period. Or, just scroll down to see a table with detailed information.

5. Can I see the data in a different graph?

In the upper right hand corner, you will see options for the different graphs and tables. There are five graph types overall: an area graph, an area graph by percentage, a line graph, a pie graph, and a bar chart. There is also a table view below any chart or graph. The table allows you to zoom-in on the detailed financial data selected in the chart or graph above.

6. Why are these sometimes spikes in one year?

In reviewing multiple years of data, you may see "spikes" in the individual years; this can be due to unexpected expenses, such as a hard winter, equipment failure, a capital project, or a specific event that required additional funds. You can drill-down into our OpenGov site to learn more about what exactly those expense or revenues are categorized.

7. Can I save the data I am looking at?

Yes, there are Share and Download buttons in the upper right corner. You can share any view on a social network or by email. There are also options to download the displayed data in .csv spreadsheet and .png image formats.

8. How do I learn more about government accounting?

Use the Help menu on the top right corner to navigate to the "Budget 101" primer to learn more about multi-fund accounting.

9. How do I contact the/my organziation?

Use the Help menu on the top right corner to navigate to the "contact" option to send your message to your organization.

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1. How do I contact the City Manager's Office?

You may contact the City Manager's Office by calling 775-784-9858.

2. How do I contact the Mayor or Council members?

The following is a list of contact phone numbers for each elected official. 

Mayor Roy Edgington: 775-784-9857

Councilwoman Ward One, Raymond Lacy: 775-784-9852

Councilman Ward Two, Dan McCassie: 775-784-9855

Councilman Ward Three, Stan Lau: 775-784-9854 

Councilwoman Ward Four, Susan Seidl: 775-784-9853

Councilman Ward Five, Fran McKay: 775-784-9856

3. When are the City Boards and Commissions meetings held?

We value your attendance and input at our meetings, and the public is always encouraged to attend.

Regular Council Meetings are the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month at 5:00 pm in the City Hall Council Chambers.
Fernley Planning Commission meets the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 5:00 pm in the City Hall Council Chambers.
Fernley Convention & Tourism Authority Board meets twice a year, once in June and again in December. Day/time will be posted on the website several weeks prior to meeting.

Neighborhood Watch, held by the Lyon County Sheriff's Office, meets the 4th Thursday of each month at 6:00 pm in the City Hall Community Room.

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1. Why do we need the water treatment plant?

To provide clean water for the City of Fernley residents.

Few things are more important to our community than ensuring that our drinking water is clean, safe, and reliable. In addition to meeting the requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Safe Drinking Water Act, the construction and completion of Fernley’s groundwater treatment plant is the most important issue facing our community. Treating our water with care is an important community investment. This investment pays off in dividends to our health, well-being, and the quality of life we enjoy here in our high desert home.

On January 22, 2001, the EPA set a new maximum standard for arsenic in drinking water. This new standard dropped the maximum level from 50 parts per billion to 10 parts per billion. This regulation required that all public drinking water systems comply with the new standard by January 23, 2006. The City and the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection have agreed that the City will deliver compliant water from the water treatment plant by July 23, 2009, and the final completion by December 23, 2009.

2. Will there be any arsenic dust that will migrate to adjacent property owners?

No. The City’s primary concern is the health and safety of its residents, and as a result the City has and will continue to have, best management practices to mitigate all potential for arsenic to migrate beyond the water treatment plant.

3. Will there be any groundwater contamination from the solids drying basins?

No. Due to time limited circumstances associated with obtaining the groundwater discharge permit for the solids drying basins, the City Council approved the staff’s recommendation for the redesign of the water treatment plant's solid handling facilities from the solid drying basins to a closed loop tank storage system. This system will alleviate any possibility for groundwater contamination.

4. Will there be a production well at the water treatment plant?

No. The City investigated, through the means of a test well, whether or not it was economically feasible to provide a production well at the water treatment plant. The City Engineer determined that a test well was not feasible. The City currently operates and maintains six main production wells located throughout the City.

5. Will the water treatment plant be used for vehicle and / or equipment storage?

No. Personnel vehicles will be on site during plant operation, but there will not be a large amount of equipment storage as the public works shop houses all major equipment. Any personnel vehicles that are on-site will be screened as much as possible either by a masonry wall or landscaping.

6. The surrounding zoning is rural residential two acre, can a water treatment plant be included within this zoning?

Yes. Section 28.040 of the City of Fernley development code, states that a water tank, water treatment facility, or sewer lift station is acceptable within a rural residential two acre zoning district, with a design review.

Section 28.070.090 of the City of Fernley development code, states that a water facility is defined as, a water facility for purifying, supplying, and holding water, or a sewer lift station facility, each including appurtenant wells, pumps, and control buildings.

7. What is the truck traffic impact to the neighborhood?

Very limited. We expect, depending on truck delivery time schedules, that there will be a potential to have two deliveries every month, or four deliveries every two months.

8. Are the chemicals used in the water treatment plant process highly hazardous?

No. The chemicals used for the water treatment plant are not listed within the Bureau of Air Pollution Control;s (BAPC) Chemical Accident Prevention Program (CAPP) because they are not highly hazardous. As a result, BAPC does not require the City to prepare and execute a CAPP for these chemicals. The four types of chemicals to be used on site are the following:

• Citric acid


• Ferric chloride


• Sodium hydroxide


• Sodium hypochlorite

9. Is there going to be chlorine stored on-site?

No. Disinfection shall be provided through sodium hypochlorite, not chlorine.

10. Will site lighting from the water treatment plant be a problem to the surrounding neighborhood?

No. The City Public Works and Community Development departments has been working together to ensure that all outside lighting conforms to the full cut-off criteria set forth in Section 40.040 of the City of Fernley development code. This code states that, all light fixtures shall be installed or be designed to project light downward and away from adjoining properties. As a result, no site lighting is allowed to penetrate onto adjacent properties. If additional property light shielding is necessary, the City will install it.

11. Does the water treatment plant conform to the City of Fernley development code Section 44.020 for minimum road widths for non-residential use?

No. The minimum right of way width for non-residential use is 60 feet. Mesa Drive consists of both 50 feet and 60 feet right of ways. The City is aware of the requirements set forth by the development code, and is currently working to comply with this requirement.

In approving the civil improvement plans, Community Development Director Robert “Terry” Gilbert, set a condition on the City that the right of way has to be in compliance with the development code prior to certification of occupancy.

12. Where can we get more information about the water treatment plant?

• Environmental Protection Agency website


• Nevada Division of Environmental Protection website


• The City of Fernley website

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1. What kinds of grants are available to individuals?

Low-income individuals may qualify for housing assistance and certain emergency assistance. For additional information on housing programs and resources, please visit our housing resources webpage.

2. What kind of grants are available to homeowners?

Homeowners may qualify for grants involving home weatherization, repairs, and rehabilitation. For additional information on grants for homeowners, please visit the energy sustainability webpage.

3. Are there any grants available to me for my small business?

The federal government has funding earmarked to help small businesses, but these funds are distributed in the form of grants and / or partnership agreements to governments and nonprofits that in turn help small business.

The State of Nevada uses its federal grants to assist businesses directly through its many small business development programs, and also funds nonprofit organizations that provide technical support to small businesses in Fernley.

4. What kinds of loans are available to help me start my business?

If you are a start-up business, your best option is to visit with the folks at the University of Nevada Reno Small Business Development Center, or the US Small Business Administration. They provide business planning and loan assistance.

Additionally, the Small Business Development Center provides seminars, workshops, and training for entrepreneurs. These seminars look at all aspects of starting up a business, including financing.

5. Do I need to be a nonprofit (501(c)3) organization to apply for a grant?

Generally yes, with the exception of student financial aid and individual homeownership grants. Nonprofit groups may apply for grants from state, federal, and foundation funding applicable to the organization’s mission and scope of work.

6. Can you help me write a grant?

Local governments do not write grants for individuals. Several companies and consultants provide grant writing services. There are various sites on the Internet, which give information on the parts of a grant, and how to develop an application. First start with the resources for grant seekers webpage.

These formats generally fit a non-solicited grant application, while solicited applications will provide the format they prefer for the grant. Much of the information on these sites will apply to the different sections of the solicited application.

Grant writing classes are also available from the University of Nevada Reno.

7. When do I apply for a grant?

Deadlines vary for each grant, but many grants are available around the same time each year. Check the grant you are interested in for details. Please visit the funding links webpage, for grants available.

8. How do I find grants and apply for them?

Each grant has its own application process. Go to the grant category, which applies to your organization and download the application. There are numerous sites on the Internet, which announce grant application deadlines and additional information.

Each site is specific to the funder, whether it be federal, state, or private foundation funding. Become familiar with which funders would support your area, and then research those sites. Internet search engines are very helpful in narrowing down the field of potential funders.

Additional information on available grants in usually provided in professional journals or magazines, or in by subscription periodicals.

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1. Where do I send my application and resume for a job posting?

Fernley City Hall
595 Silver Lace Blvd.
Fernley, NV 89408

View job opportunities.

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1. Where are the parks located in the City of Fernley?

View the maps and park location webpage.

2. How do I reserve a picnic area or park?

To reserve a picnic area or park area for a small private gathering, simply call the City Parks Department at 775.784.9914, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. The office is closed on holidays. You will need complete the reservation form.

3. Does my event need a special event permit or business license?

A special event permit is necessary if you want to have a parade on main street, hold a block party and close a street, hold a fair, rodeo, or other public event in a City facility or park. View the special events webpage for more information.

A business license is necessary for any business, commercial enterprise, trade, occupation, calling, profession, vocation, or activity engaged in, conducted, carried on by any person, his agent or employee in an attempt and with the intent to gain business for profit (FMC 10.01.04 (a)). This includes companies, organizations or individuals conducting business in an ongoing or temporary manner. Please visit the Licenses tab of the City Clerk Department's page for more information or contact us at cityclerk@cityoffernley.org - 775-784-9830.

4. Does my event need a business license?

If the event you are holding is for profit (festival, farmer's market, etc.), a non-profit fundraiser, and/or will have vendors, then the event organizer and vendors must obtain a temporary license from the City of Fernley. Event coordinators must submit to the City Clerk's Office the Special Event Application and vendors participating in the event must submit the Vendor Application to apply for a temporary license. Vendors who already have an active annual license to conduct business in the City of Fernley are exempted from obtaining an additional temporary license. All entities doing business in the State of Nevada, must also obtain a State Business License. Food handling and sales are regulated through the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services, Environmental Health Section.

For more information please contact us at cityclerk@cityoffernley.org or 775-784-9830.

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1. What's my zoning?

Please visit the Lyon County Assessor’s https://gsaportal.lyon-county.org/. 

Assessor Date Inquiry Helpful Instructions to Search

Type in the address in the Search All Records box. As you type, the address will self-populate. Select the address you wish to search and then hit enter. Click the parcel # to view the parcel summary, value summary, document, transfer and sales history, etc. Scroll to the bottom of the page under Land Lines to find the Zone. 

2. What size of sign can I have and where can I put it?

Chapter 41. - Sign Regulations

Sec. 32.41.010. - Definitions.

Sec. 32.41.020. - Signs exempt from a sign permit.

Sec. 32.41.030. - Prohibited signs.

Sec. 32.41.040. - Official signs and safety signs.

Sec. 32.41.050. - Directory signs.

Sec. 32.41.060. - On-premises signs for businesses in agricultural areas.

Sec. 32.41.070. - Temporary subdivisions sales signs, on-site.

Sec. 32.41.080. - Subdivision or homebuilder off-premises signs.

Sec. 32.41.090. - Permanent for lease/rent signs.

Sec. 32.41.100. - Advertising on vehicles.

Sec. 32.41.110. - Traffic hazards.

Sec. 32.41.120. - Utility lines.

Sec. 32.41.130. - Owners consent required.

Sec. 32.41.140. - Freestanding signs, maximum area and height.

Sec. 32.41.150. - Wall or projecting signs.

Sec. 32.41.160. - Temporary signs.

Sec. 32.41.170. - Residential area identification signs.

Sec. 32.41.180. - Roof-mounted signs.

Sec. 32.41.190. - Construction and maintenance of signs.

Sec. 32.41.200. - Projection limits.

Sec. 32.41.210. - Variance to sign area or number of signs.

Sec.32.41.220. - Master sign plan required.

Sec.32.41.230. - Billboard signs.

Sec.32.41.240. - Sign lighting.

Sec.32.41.250. - Non-conforming signs.

3. What is the development code for accessory dwellings?

City of Fernley Development Code – Chapter 32.28.70.100. Accessory uses. Accessory dwellings.

1) Definition: An attached or detached dwelling unit or guest house, with or without kitchen facilities, intended for occupation by paying or non-paying persons, guests, members of the family or persons employed on the premises, and located on the same parcel as a permitted principal use. Accessory dwellings do not include dwellings which this development code specifically designates as being part of an allowed principal use and which are allowed as a use by right. Mobile homes cannot be used as accessory dwellings in any zoning district.

2) Parking requirements: A minimum of one off-street parking space must be provided in addition to any parking required for the main dwelling or principal use.

3) Additional provisions:

        a) Accessory dwellings may be detached from the structure housing the principal use provided it is on the same parcel as the main structure, except in the agricultural zoning district where the accessory dwellings may be located where appropriate for the agricultural operation with which it is associated.

        b) Accessory dwellings shall not exceed a gross floor area 1,000 square feet or more than 50 percent of the main structure's floor area, whichever is less, or have more than one bedroom.

        c) Accessory dwellings within non-residential zoning districts are limited to 1,200 square feet in livable area, and must be accessory to a primary permitted use on the same parcel. A person may utilize an existing residential structure, regardless of size, as an accessory dwelling in a non-residential zoning district.

        d) Where the unit is attached, a separate entrance to the accessory dwelling is allowed, but only one entrance may be visible from the front property line.

        e) The property owner must live on the property and maintain one of the units as the primary residence.

        f) Deed restrictions. Before obtaining a building permit, the property owner shall file with the county recorder a declaration or agreement of restrictions which has been approved by the city attorney as to its form and content, containing a reference to the deed under which the property was acquired by the owner stating that:

               1. The accessory dwelling unit shall be considered legal only so long as either the primary residence or the accessory dwelling is occupied by the owner of the property;

               2. The accessory dwelling cannot be sold separately;

               3. The restrictions shall be binding upon any successor in ownership of the property, and lack of compliance may result in legal action against the property owner.

        g) Only one accessory dwelling unit per parcel is allowed.

        h) The accessory dwelling shall be compatible with the primary dwelling in terms of architectural style and building materials.

        i) The accessory dwelling shall utilize the same water, electric, and gas meters as the principal dwelling unit. If the site is served by a well or septic, all applicable NRS and NAC standards shall be met.

        j) On parcels of less than one acre, all accessory dwellings shall be single-story.

        k) Accessory dwellings shall be in conformance with the setback requirements of the zoning district in which it is located

        l) Accessory dwellings shall not obtain a separate address.

4. Can I have chickens and how many can I have?

City of Fernley Development Code – Chapter 32.28.70

Under Animals (5) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter, chickens may be kept in any zoning district as an accessory use if the following standards are complied with:

a. Roosters are prohibited.

b. The keeping of chickens is limited based on parcel size:

     1. Parcel size between zero and 2,000 square feet may keep up to two hens.

     2. Parcel sizes between 2,001 and 6,000 square feet may keep up to four hens.

     3. Parcel sizes between 6,001 and 10,000 square feet may keep up to five hens.

     4. Parcel sizes greater than 10,000 square feet may keep up to two hens for every 2,000 square feet of parcel size, not to exceed 16 hens.

c. Chickens shall be restricted from accessing the front yard.

d. The chickens shall be provided a covered enclosure (coop) and must be kept in the covered enclosure. The coop must be a minimum of five feet from any property line.

e. Coop shall be clean and odor free.

f. If the city receives a complaint, and after being given at least 24 hours' notice, a property owner that exercises the privilege of keeping chickens on their property agrees to allow inspections by the administrator for compliance with the standards of this chapter.

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1. Is my lot on sewer or septic?

This can be determined by calling the Engineering Division of Public Works Department at 775.784.9910.

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1. What are some winter driving tips I can follow?

Always be prepared for changing weather conditions, and follow the Nevada Department of Transportation’s Winter Driving Tips.

2. Who is responsible for the storm drain easement on my property?

No owner or tenant shall obstruct a drainage easement or channel within the tract. All drainage facilities within the drainage easement are to be maintained by the property owner. No fences or other obstructions shall be permitted within or across any drainage easement.

3. How soon can I drive on my street after it has been sealed after a City project?

As soon as the traffic cones are removed by the contractor doing the work.

4. Why does the city do crackfilling? Isn’t it a waste of money?

Crackfilling is one of the cheapest and most effective methods for keeping our roadways in good shape. The crackfilling work prevents moisture intrusion, and prepares a better base for the later application of the slurry treatment.

5. My street has not been swept in a long time. Don’t my taxes pay for the sweeper?

The city does not have an established sweeping schedule for our local roadways. We do respond to citizen requests for sweeping. We respond immediately for safety concerns reported by citizens, the Sheriffs Department, or City staff. No property taxes are utilized for the streets and storm drains fund.

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1. Can I pay my bill online?

Yes. As long as you have an account number with us, you can view and pay your bill online at Xpress Bill Pay. If you have multiple accounts with us, you can set up the multiple accounts and pay them separately or all in one transaction.

If you want to stop receiving paper bills, or speak with a customer service representative for more information, please call 775.784.9930.

2. Is there a deposit and how much will it be?

The deposit to start a typical water service is $75 and a typical sewer service is $80. There is also a $20 service fee to process applications for service. Therefore, $175 is generally required to start water / sewer service. Please contact a customer service representative at 775.784.9930 for more information.

3. Can I set up a new service or transfer a service online?

Not at this time, but we are working on it. If you need to change your service or start a new service, please contact a customer service representative at 775.784.9930. Please have payment ready for initial deposits and fees. Over the phone we accept credit and debit cards, and electronic funds transfer from your checking or savings account.

4. Why is my water bill so high?

Receive a high-water bill? Generally, the culprit is a toilet. Since you live in the home and are responsible for its day to day upkeep, pay attention to whether a toilet and other water sources are running constantly. A drip in a sink won’t markedly affect your water bill, but a running toilet, even one barely noticeable, can increase your bill tens of thousands of gallons (and $100s of dollars) over a very short period of time. Toilets can have this happen to them at any time and keeping an eye and ear out for signs of a running toilet is an important part of living in a place of your own. Be on the lookout for a constant or intermittent sound even when the toilet is not and has not been in use. These noises are always a good indicator. But the reality is sometimes the trickle in a toilet is so quiet that the first thing you will notice is, well, a high-water bill.

Not the toilet? Other high-water usage causes:

• In the summer months, water usage is normally higher due swamp coolers or watering the lawn and landscape.
• If there are more people in your house, water usage will generally increase.
• If you have recently made home improvements, such as a swimming pool or lawn fountain, your water use will likely increase.

Figuring out causes of high water usage is the key and, of course, taking steps to reduce the usage as you work to fix the underlying problem. If you suspect you may have a leak, call our office and we will have one of our field personnel go out and see if the meter is moving while no water is being used in your house. If the meter is turning, this may indicate you have a leak on the property and you will want to locate the leak and fix it. If you have any questions or suspect a leak, please contact the Utility Department at 775-785-9930. Possible Leak

5. Why do I have to fix leaks on my property? Isn't this the City's responsibility?

The City is responsible for maintaining main lines. Anything from the meter box to the residence is the owner's responsibility. If you suspect you may have a leak, call our office and we will have one of our field personnel go out and see if the meter is moving while no water is being used in your house. If the meter is turning, this may indicate you have a leak on the property and you will want to locate the leak and fix it. If you have any questions or suspect a leak, please contact the Utility Department at 775-785-9930. 

6. What is an E-One Unit?

An E-One Unit is a low pressure sewer system. The key element of this system is an environment one grinder pump. The tank collects all solid materials and effluent from the home. The solid materials are then ground to a small size suitable for pumping as a slurry with the effluent water. The grinder pump generates sufficient pressure to pump this slurry from your home to the main sewer and ultimately to flow to the East Wastewater Treatment Plant.

If your home is equipped with an E-One Unit, in signing up for service, you authorize the City of Fernley to enter your property to repair or service the E-One Unit at your location. Please call a customer service representative at 775.784.9930 if you have further questions or need further information about E-One Units.

7. Who do I contact to set up my other utilities?

View the resource directory for contact information.

Show All Answers

1. Why does my water smell like rotten eggs?

The rotten egg odor is usually associated with waterlines and fixtures that have low usage such as when residents are gone form their homes and little or no water has been flushed through them for days or weeks at a time. Another cause can come from water standing in newly constructed water mains, in which case the City may have to come out and flush the lines.

2. What can be done to increase my water pressure?

Depending on where you live you may be in a low-pressure area, a high-pressure area, or somewhere in between. The differences in pressure can be due to the elevation of your house in relation to the water tank that serves your area. The lower the elevation your house is below the water tank the higher your pressure will be, therefore houses closest in elevation to the water tank will have the lowest pressure.

To make the best of the pressure that is available to your house make sure that your interior plumbing is working properly. A plumber can help you with this.

If your pressure is extremely low, less than 20 pounds per square inch, contact the Public Works Department at 775.784.9910, to see if anything can be done to increase the pressure.

3. I have a water leak at the front of my house at the meter. Who has to pay for the water?

If the leak is found to be on the street side of the meter box, the City will repair the leak and there is not cost to the homeowner. If the leak is found to be on the homeowner’s side of the meter box, the homeowner is responsible for both the repair of the water line and the water lost due to the leak.