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Administration

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1. What is the physical or mailing address for City Hall

City Hall is located at 2150 Universal City Blvd, Universal City, Texas 78148

2. How do I find City employees or staff members?

City departments and individual contact information is listed in the Staff Directory or hit the CONTACT US hyperlink at the bottom of each page

3. Hours of Operations

The City adminstrative offices are open M-F, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. The City Calendar located on the homepage lists any office closures that may occur due to holidays.

4. Contact Us

City departments and individual contact information is listed in the Staff Directory or hit the CONTACT US hyperlink at the bottom of each page

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Animal Care and Control

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1. What is the process for adoption and what is the cost?

Come to the shelter during adoption hours (M-F 10:00 am – 4:00 pm; Sat. 10:00 am – 3:00 pm)

Spend some time getting to know some of our homeless pets.

Meet with an adoption counselor to discuss your plans and expectations to make sure the pet you choose is a good match for your lifestyle and preferences.

Make a final decision about the right pet for your family. Please remember that adopting a pet should not be entered into lightly.

Adoption cost for cats or dogs is $75.00

The fee includes:

Dogs:
City license
Spay/Neuter
Vaccinations for distemper
Rabies Vaccination
Deworming for round and hook worms
Parvo distemper vaccination
Bordetella vaccination
Dog Flu vaccination
Heartworm check for animals over 5 months old
Microchipping

Cats:
City License
Spay/Neuter
Feline Three-Way Vaccination
Rabies Vaccination
Deworming for round and hook worms
Microchipping

2. Why does my new pet have to be spayed/neutered?

State health code (Texas Health and Safety code, Animal Sterilization Act, Section 828) requires that all animals be sterilized, if adopting from a shelter.

Spaying/Neutering is encouraged at an animal’s early age for the better health of the pet.

It helps to greatly reduce our current overpopulation problem.

3. Why do I need a city license and what is the cost?

According to City ordinance, it shall be unlawfull for any owner or custodian to have, harbor, or keep or to cause or permit to be harobored, kept, or be free of restraint, any unlicensed dog or cat 4 months of age or older within this City.
A city license will identify your pet should it get lost.
Should your pet become lost, the Animal Care and Control Facility personnel will be able to contact you that we are holding your pet. Please be sure to maintain an up-to-date license with current contact information.
City licenses are $5.00 annual/ $15.00 tri-annual for spayed/neutered pets and $8.00 annual/ $24.00 tri-annual for non spayed/neutered.
City licenses can be purchased at the Universal City Animal Care and Control Facility and at Universal City area veterinarian offices.

4. How many pets can I have in the city?

The City of Universal City allows individuals to own four (4) dogs and four (4) cats on a single property. Any more and the individual would have to apply for kennel status.

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Building/Permits

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1. Address for City Hall

The City Hall is located at 2150 Universal City Blvd, Universal City, TX 78148. The main phone number is (210) 659-0333.

2. What building codes has Universal City adopted?

The city has adopted the International Codes as minimum standards for construction of both residential and commercial properties. For a list of adopted codes.. More...

3. What type of construction work requires building permits?

Most all construction work requires a permit; the only improvement that currently does not is painting and interior cosmetic work such as cabinets, wall paper and carpet. For a list of permit requirements ... More...

4. What building inspections are required?

The required inspections on a project depends on the type and extent of the project and may also include inspection by other departments such as fire, public works and health as may be necessary. For a list of inspections ... More...

5. Do I have to comply with deed restrictions and city codes?

Yes, if you live in a deed restricted subdivision you are required to contact your homeowners association for their requirements; and you must also comply with city code requirements as well. City code, if more restrictive, will supercede deed restriction requirements.

6. Is a sign permit required?

Yes; any installation, replacement or change to a new or existing sign requires a permit. Certain types of temporary signs do not. Registered sign contractors are required in most cases to obtain permits and perform the installations. Sign Ordinance 352 is available on MuniCode as Chapter 4-4 ... More...

7. Do I need a permit for a street span banner?

Yes; the city has eight locations available for installation of street span banners. Locations may only be reserved by issuance of a permit by the city. More...

8. How do I obtain a building permit

Building permits for all contractors are available on the web site under the BUSINESS tab. Registered plumbers, electricians and HVAC contractors can fax in the permit applications to (210) 659-7062. Permits are typically ready for pick up in 2 to 3 hours. Permits that require a plan review should be brought to City Hall located at 2150 Universal City Blvd, Universal City TX 78148. For questions, call (210) 659-0333 ext 725.

9. I'm a homeowner, can I pull my own permit?

All electric, mechanical, and plumbing work must have permits pulled by a State licensed, City registered contractor. Homeowners cannot pull these permits. However, homeowners can pull permits for fences, roof work, and other small jobs. A short list of contractors who are licensed and registered in the City already is located in the Development Services folder of the Document Center. When in doubt, call (210) 659-0333 ext 725.

10. I'm a business/building owner, can I pull my own permits?

No. State law requires that all construction work on publically accessed facilities must be done by a General Contractor or other State licensed trade depending on the type of construction work being conducted. All contractors doing work in Universal City must be registered to work in the City of Universal City and pull permits for all types of work conducted.

11. Do I need a permit for a shed?

Yes, sheds do require a permit and inspections. Each area of the City has its own shed requirements for setbacks, height, size, and maximum lot coverage. Bring a copy of your site plan, and the plans/specification from the builder or home improvement center with you. Permit fees for sheds are based on the cost of the shed. Every residence is only allowed 1 accessory structure unless a variance is obtained prior to installation.

12. Who issues building permits

Building permits are issued by the Development Services Department located at 2150 Universal City Blvd, Universal City TX 78148, M-F, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Questions can be directed to (210) 659-0333 ext 725.

13. Are permits required for a new fence

Yes. Fence repair or replacement does require a permit and an inspection. Bring a copy of your site plan with you when obtaining the permit--hand drawn site plans will suffice. Cost of a fence permit is $50 and must be obtained before the work is begun. Homeowners can pull their own fence permits.

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City Officials

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1. Who is my city council representative?

City council is comprised of seven members and each represent the entire city. More...

2. When and where are city council meetings held?

Regular council meetings are held at 6:30 p.m. on the first and third Tuesdays of each month at city hall located at 2150 Universal City Blvd. Special meetings are held as necessary. Agendas are posted on this website and at city hall. More...

3. What is the procedure to speak at a city council meeting?

Sign-in slips are provided in the foyer prior to each council meeting. Fill one out and give it to the mayor BEFORE the meeting starts. You will speak during the "Citizens to be Heard" segment of the meeting. This time is provided for citizens to address city council on issues or concerns and must be informative only. No city council discussion or action will be taken. Please limit your comments to five minutes.

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Code Enforcement

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1. Where can I put a basketball goal?

Basketball goals are not allowed on the street or sidewalk and are restricted from city right-of-way which is the area for 10 feet behind the curb. They must be located on private property at all times.

2. Do I need a permit for a garage sale?

No; but the city does restrict placement of garage sale signs to only the property where the garage sale is taking place or private property of another with their permission. Signs are not allowed on utility poles, traffic control devices or street signs. Garage sale signs must be removed at the end of the garage sale.

3. What are the restrictions on weeds and grass growth?

Weeds and grass shall not exceed 12 inches in height.

4. What are the restrictions on trees/bushes/shrubs?

Trees, bushes and shrubs are limited to 13 feet 6 inches in clearance above and next to the street and alley where applicable; and 8 feet in clearance above the pedestrian sidewalk where applicable.

5. Do I need a permit to cut down a tree?

No; the city does not currently have a tree preservation ordinance, therefore any kind of tree may be removed without notification to the city. If a professional tree service removes the tree, they must haul it off as part of their service. If a property owner removes the tree, you may contact the Public Works Department for chipping services and applicable fees.

6. Where am I allowed to plant landscaping?

Any plant, tree or shrub that will exceed 2 feet in height at maturity is prohibited within city right-of-way which is the area for 10 feet behind the curb and the area between the curb and sidewalk where applicable. Corner lots shall use caution when planting anything in excess of 2 feet so that the 30 foot visibility triangle is clear of encroachment hazards. To determine the visibility triangle.. More...

7. When can I water my lawn?

Ordinance 406 restricts watering year-round with a hose end sprinkler or irrigation system between the hours of 10:00 am to 8:00 pm. If a drought response stage is declared, please refer to Ordinance 406 for more specific restrictions. More...

8. What is considered a junk vehicle?

A junk vehicle is one that has an expired license registration; or an expired inspection and is inoperable, dismantled or abandoned.

9. Can I park on the grass in my front yard?

No; all motor vehicles, trailers, recreational vehicles and vessels shall be parked on a permanent surface of concrete when located in the front yard.

10. What are the restrictions on exterior storage?

Exterior storage is limited to customary outdoor items. Excessive exterior storage is restricted by the Property Maintenance Code which states that all exterior premises must be kept clean and in a sanitary condition.

11. How do I contact Code Compliance

Code Compliance can be reached at (210) 659-0333 ext 723, Monday thru Friday, during normal operating hours. If you leave a message, please include your name and phone number, the property address you are calling about, and the specific type of violation or concern that you are reporting.

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Economic Development

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1. Contact Economic Development

City departments and individual contact information is listed in the Staff Directory or hit the CONTACT US hyperlink at the bottom of each page

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Human Resources

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1. What positions are currently available?

Available job openings are posted in the Human Resources Department webpage. Or you can access them by clicking on the following link. Current Job Listings

2. What is the hiring process?

Submitted applications are reviewed by hiring managers for work experience, education and any specific requirements as posted in the job description. The hiring manager then interviews applicants that he/she feels are most qualified for the position. After all interviews are completed, the hiring manager may hold second interviews for desired candidates. The hiring manager then selects one candidate they feel is most qualified for the position. An offer of employment is pending until acceptable results of a drug test and pre-employment physical exam are received.

3. What type of benefits does the City offer?

The following Benefits are available to all full-time employees:

Health Insurance – Employee cost is paid by the City, cost for family members is paid by the employee.

Dental Insurance – Employee cost is paid by the City, cost for family members is paid by the employee.

Life Insurance – Cost is paid by the City.

TMRS ( TX Municipal Retirement System) – 5% of employee pay each pay period. The City match is 2 to 1.

ICMA - 457 plan is available for employee participation.

Vacation/Sick leave – Full time employees accrue vacation and sick leave each pay period.

4. Where do I send my application and/or resume for a job posting?

Please return all completed applications to:

City of Universal City
Attn: Human Resources
2150 Universal City Blvd
Universal City, TX 78148

5. Can I apply online?

At this time, the City of Universal City does not offer online applications.

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Library Information

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1. How do I get a library card?

The Universal City Public Library will serve without charge all people residing within the state of Texas, as well as Universal City business and property owners. Library Card applicants must provide official government or school issued photo identification and a bill or mail with a postmark not more than 60 days old with the patron’s name and physical address on the form or as addressee on the envelope. Children 17 years old and younger must be able to sign their name and have a parent or legal guardian present at the time of the library card application to sign as the responsible party on the application. Non-residents of Texas may purchase a library card for an annual fee of $15.00. Photo identification and proof of residency requirements are the same as for Texas residents.

2. What may I check out?

Library cardholders may borrow a total of ten items from the library's circulating collection. Videos/DVDs are limited to four per library card at any time.

3. How long may I keep borrowed items?

Entertainment videos/DVDs (UCVC) -- five days
All other circulating items -- three weeks
Items not placed on reserve may be renewed ONCE. More...

4. What is the penalty for returning items late?

Videos/DVDs -- $1.00 per day
Juvenile Items -- $0.05 per day
All other items -- $0.10 per day

5. How do I make a donation to the library?

The library accepts donations of books, audiobooks, and DVDs/videos that may be added to the collection. Items not added may be sold in the Friends of the Library used bookstore. Monetary donations can be made to the Universal City Public Library or the Friends of the Library.

6. Does the library have a volunteer program?

Yes, the library always needs volunteers. Volunteer opportunities ranging from assisting with collection circulation to children's programming are available. To apply, please leave your name and telephone number at the circulation desk.

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Municipal Court

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1. Where can I take defensive driving?

Once you register with the court you have the options of online classes, DVD's or in person classes.

2. What form of payment is accepted?

Payment may be made by money order or cashiers check by mail, Mastercard, Visa, debit cards and cash are also accepted in person. NO personal or business checks are accepted.

3. Can someone else take care of my ticket?

Only the defendant or their attorney may address a ticket before or at the court appearance. Once a payment extension has been granted, anyone may come in to make the scheduled payment.

4. Can I change my court date?

Due to the large docket size, court dates cannot be reset except for a documented medical emergency. Work excuses are not accepted.

5. My defensive driving is due on a Sunday/holiday. What do I do?

All paperwork must be received by 8:00 am the following business day. You must appear in person at the time the court opens at 8:00. It is your responsibility to check that all paperwork is in order before you bring it in; there is no extension granted past the 90th day.

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New Resident Information

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1. Where can I get the new resident packet?

A new resident packet will be given to you when you come in to the City of Universal City Municipal Building to start your water service.

2. Where can I set up water, garbage, gas and electric services?

Water and garbage services must be set up in person at the City of Universal City Municipal Building located at 2150 Universal City Blvd. Water and garbage services cannot be set up by phone.

For electric service contact CPS Energy at (210)353-2222.

For natural gas service, contact CPS Energy at (210)353-2222 or Centerpoint Energy at 1-800-427-7142.

3. How can I pay my water bill?

Water bills may be paid online, by mail, in person, or placed in our drop box at the City of Universal City Municipal Building located at 2150 Universal City Blvd. We accept cash, check, Visa or Mastercard.

4. How do I get garbage services at my residence or business?

Residential trash pickup is coordinated through the City of Universal City when you begin your water service. This service is billed directly with your monthly water bill. Any problems you experience are to be directed to Waste Management Customer Service at 368-5000. If your problems persist, please contact Albert Perez, Waste Management Municipal Manager, at (210)619-7756.

Commercial trash pick-up is collected and billed directly through Waste Management Customer Service at (210)368-5000.

5. Who do I contact about a missed garbage or brush pick-up?

Waste Management is the provider for trash, brush and bulk pick up. If your service is missed or you have a concern, contact Waste Management Customer Service at (210)368-5000. If you need additional assistance, please contact Albert Perez at (210)619-7756 or email him at aperez3@wm.com. If you still need further assistance after making contact with Waste Management, please call the City of Universal City Water Department at (210) 659-0333 and select option #8.

6. Will Waste Management pick up large household items?

Yes. Most large household items are picked up on your second pickup of the week. However, there may be some items that require you to take safety precautions before they will be picked up (i.e., refrigerators). Please contact Waste Management Customer Service at (210)368-5000 for more information.

7. Is there a recycling program in Universal City?

Recycling is handled through Waste Management, our garbage collection agent. To request a recycle container please call (210)648-6006, allowing 30 days for delivery. A copy of the recycle calendar may be downloaded by clicking the following link. Recycle Calendar

8. How do I set up cable, phone and other services?

These services within our community are left to your discretion. Please contact the provider of your choice.

9. Do I need an Alarm Permit?

If you have an Alarm system in the home, even if it's not being monitored, you must have a permit. More...

10. Where can I find local school information?

Universal City is serviced by two separate school districts. Schertz, Cibolo, Universal City ISD (SCUCISD) and Judson ISD. Please contact their administrative offices to determine which district that you reside.

SCUCISD Administrative Office - (210)945-6200

Judson ISD Administrative Office - (210)945-5100

11. What are the local emergency contacts?

Emergencies dial - 911
Police Dept(non-emergency)- 658-5353
Fire Dept(Non-emergency)- 659-1250

12. Where can I find emergency disaster information?

Please reference the Fire Department's "Emergency Preparedness" page. More...

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Police Department

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1. Do I need an Alarm Permit?

Yes, If you have a Alarm system installed in your home or business. Alarm Fees: Residential - $7.50yr and Commercial - $25.00yr. More...

2. How do I pay my Alarm Permit?

Alarm Permits are paid at the Police Department, between 8:00a.m & 5:00p.m. at the records window. After hours, payments maybe dropped in the utilities drop box (permit # must be on payment). We accept cash, check, money order or cashiers check. More...

3. When are Alarm Permits due?

Alarm Permits are due by December 31st of each year. A $25.00 late fee will be added after this date. Permits are good for one calendar year only. More...

4. Do I need a Solicitors Permit?

All solicitors who go door-to-door, either to make contact, or just to deliver flyers, must have a permit. You can obtain a permit at the records window of the Police Department between 8:00a.m. - 5:00p.m. More...

5. What are the cost of reports?

Accident reports - $6.00
Incident reports - $.10 per page
More...

6. How do I obtain an Open records request?

Fill in the "Police Open records request" form and submit form online or bring to the Records Division at the Police Department. Fees do apply for the report. Photo ID is required to pick up reports. More...

7. How to obtain fingerprints?

We can assist residence or business owners of Universal City needing or requiring fingerprints. More...

8. How do I pay a Warrant?

Warrant payments are accepted anytime at the Police Department. We accept cash, money order and cashiers check, or visa and mastercard. You can also pay by clicking the "Online Bill Pay" on the home page. More...

9. How do I file a complaint?

If you need to file a complaint on employees of the Police Department, complaint forms can be picked up at the Police Department. The form must be notarized and return. More...

10. Who do I contact to set up a Neighborhood Watch?

Residents and neighborhoods that are interested in learning more about Neighborhood Watch can contact the UCCPAAA at (210) 658-5353 ext 526 or visit www.uccpaaa.org to learn more about this worthwhile program.
More...

11. What is the City Ordinance for Sexual Offenders?

Please read Ordinance 602 - Sexual Offenders More...

12. Where do the registered Sex Offenders live in Universal City?

Please visit the Department of Public Safety website to get current information on registered sex offenders living in Universal City. More...

13. How can I request extra patrol, when I go out of town?

You can fill out an Out of town slip and return to the dispatchers at the Police Department. More...

14. What is the City Ordinance on curfew for minors?

It shall be unlawful for any minor to purposefully remain, walk, run, stand, drive or ride about in or upon any public place in the City of Universal City between the hours of 12:00AM (midnight) and 6:00AM. Please review City Ordinance 568 for more information. More...

15. What is the Citizen's Police Academy?

The Universal City Citizen’s Police Academy is an eleven-week course designed to give citizens and local business owners an inside look at the Universal City Police Department. More..

16. What is National Night Out?

It's America's Night Out Against Crime, designed to:
Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness;
Generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime programs;
Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and
Send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

More..

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Public Works

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1. Whom should I contact about: street sweeping, street repairs, damaged/missing signs, curb repair?

Contact the Universal City Public Works Department at (210) 658-5364; if there is a dangerous road condition and it is after normal working hours you can contact the Universal City Police Department at (210) 658-5353.

2. Whom should I call with a traffic signal concern?

Problems with the traffic signals on Pat Booker Road, Loop 1604 intersections and FM 78 should be directed to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) at (210) 615-5975.

If you spot a problem with the traffic signals on Kitty Hawk Road at the HEB entrance, Kitty Hawk Road and Old Cimarron Trail or at Kitty Hawk Road and Universal City Boulevard please contact the Public Works Service Center at (210) 658-5364. M-F, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., after normal working hours please call the Universal City Police Department at (210) 658-5353.

3. Who repairs and/or replaces burned out or damaged street lights?

You can contact City Public Service (CPS) at (210) 353-4357 or go to the CPS website at www.cpsenergy.com to report non-operating street lights

4. Will the City repair/replace the sidewalk in front of my home?

Sidewalks in Universal City are the responsibility of the property owner. The only instance where the City will replace a sidewalk is if it is disturbed in the process of replacing or repairing a water or sewer line.

5. My home is without water, what do I do?

You can contact Utilities Administration at (210) 659-0333, Option 8, M-F, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., to see if your address is in an area that is affected by any water repairs or if your address was scheduled for disconnection due to non-payment.

6. Where do I report a water leak or sewer backup?

You can contact the Public Works Center, M-F, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., at (210) 658-5364. After normal working hours or holidays please call the Universal City Police Department at (210) 658-5353.

7. How do I found out about renting park facilities?

You can contact the Public Works Service Center at (210) 658-5364, M-F, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

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Variances

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1. How do I request a variance?

Variances are considered by the Board of Adjustments. All of the doucments needed to request the variance are available online. More...

2. Contact Us

City departments and individual contact information is listed in the Staff Directory or hit the CONTACT US hyperlink at the bottom of each page

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Zoning

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1. How do I request a zone change?

Zone change requests are considered by the Planning & Zoning Commission. The forms for a zone change request are available online in the document section of the web site. More...

2. What is the zoning classification for my property?

Universal City has multiple zoning classifications for residentail and commerical property. Call the Development Services Department at (210) 659-0333 ext 720 or view the zoning map on line More...

3. What are the platting requirements

Platting of property is done through an engineering firm. Please advise your engineer to contact Development Services at (210) 659-0333 ext 720 should he/she have questions. More...