▼

Finance & Administration

Show All Answers

1. Why was my water cut off?

In almost all cases, your water was cut off because you did not pay your bill. To have your water reconnected, you must pay your bill and a $30 reconnect fee. Other reasons that may cause the water to be off would be for a Public Works or Public Utility project or an error in application of the payment received to your account. In the case of a project, you should receive prior notice of any planned cut-off. On occasion, a waterline may break, also causing the water to be off.

2. Why is my bill so high? There is no way I used this much water.

This is the most common complaint we receive. Here are some interesting facts concerning water consumption:

• An automatic Dishwasher uses 10 gallons per load.


• A toilet requires 5 to 7 gallons per flush.


• Outdoor watering uses 5 to 10 gallons per minute.


• A leak the size of a pin hole can cause the loss of 200 gallons in a day.


• Usually the answer is watering the lawn or a leaking toilet.

3. Can the meter be wrong?

Yes, however, the meter measures water by the flow of the water turning a gauge. Since the gauge cannot turn faster than the water pushing it, the results of a failed meter are either that the meter is not reading all of your consumption or it has stopped.

4. What should I do if my consumption jumps dramatically?

You need to check carefully for leaks. If a leak is detected and you bring in the work order from a certified plumber that it was fixed, you may receive a credit for the portion of your residential sewer charges that are in excess of your typical charges. If you determine there is no leak, you may request that the meter be re-read for a charge of $20

▼

Parks & Recreation Questions

Show All Answers

1. How can I reserve a park pavillion?

Please call 247-5828 to check on the availability of pavilions & grills at Russell, Jordan & Donner Parks. Then come by the office at 716 Ocean Blvd. to fill out a special event form (also found on the recreation and special events web page). There is currently no fee for reservations.

2. How can I reserve an athletic field or court?

Call 247-5828 for availability and fill out a special event form.

3. How do I report playground equipment requiring repairs?

Please use the "Atlantic Beach Listens" on the left side banner of the home page, or call Public Works at 247-5834.

4. How do I reserve a facility for a meeting or event?

You can call 247-5828 to check availability. Fill out a rental contract and pay required fee and deposit at the Recreation office, 716 Ocean Blvd. See details on the Parks & Recreation web page "permits & rentals" page.

5. Can anyone reserve facilities?

Yes, you do not have to live in Atlantic Beach - all renters do have to be individual, a non-profit, neighborhood association, or group. Call 247-5828 if you have further questions.

6. Can I have a special event on the beach?

Yes, fill out a special event application - a fee & deposit is required for a campfire. See the Recreation & Special Events web page for applications and more information. The Recreation office is located at Adele Grage Cultural Center, Ocean Blvd and 7th Street. Call 247-5828 for hours.

7. Can I camp at the parks?

Yes- only a group campsite at Dutton Island Preserve. Please call 247-5828 to make a reservation at least 48 hours in advance. There is a $25.00 fee per night and a $25.00 deposit required.

8. Are wheeled beach chairs available at parks?

Yes. Beach chairs for seniors and/or disabled are available. Please call 247-5828 ahead of time to ensure availability and then fill out a request form. Chairs may be used at the beach accesses or at Dutton Island Preserve. There is no fee.

9. Which parks have meeting rooms?

Adele Grage Cultural Center at Bull Park, Jordan and Donner Parks have community rooms that can be reserved for a meeting or a party. Please call 247-5828 for availability and see rental information online at Recreation and Special Events.

10. Can anyone use the skate park?

Yes, if you are 16 and under a signed waiver & City-issued sticker is required. Helmet is a must!!

11. How do I get a skate park waiver & sticker?

You can get waiver online or at City Hall. Once it is filled out and notarized you will be issued a sticker which will allow you entry to the skate park. Parent/Guardian must complete waiver.

12. Where do I get skate park waiver notarized?

You can go to City Hall 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri. The Recreation office can also notarize your waiver. Call ahead at 247-5828. Stickers will be given to you at City Hall or the Recreation office(Mon.-Fri.).

13. Can I bring my dog on Atlantic Beach beaches?

Yes. Dogs are allowed on the beach during the day and evening. Dogs must be on leash unless both adult and pet are in the water together (see below). Pet owners must pick up and remove dog waste from beach and dispose of properly.

Sec. 4-25. Leashing.
No dog shall be allowed off the property of its owner unless the dog is fastened to a suitable leash of dependable strength not to exceed twelve (12) feet in length. Such leash must be attached to a fixed object or specifically held by a person capable of controlling the animal. On Atlantic Beach if dog and owner are in the Atlantic Ocean together, the dog shall be allowed to swim unleashed and then immediately put back on the leash before returning to the beach. This does not include walking the dog in the water.
(Code 1970, § 4-4(c); Ord. No. 95-88-33, § 4, 4-25-88; Ord. No. 95-98-69, § 1, 10-26-98)

14. Are fires allowed on the beach?

Campfires (6 logs) are allowed on the beach with a special event permit from November 1 to April 30. Permits are $25 with a refundable $25 deposit. Bonfires are not allowed. Fires are not permitted during Sea Turtle Nesting Season. Bring application and fee to Recreation office located at Adele Grage Cultural Center.

▼

Public Safety - Questions

Show All Answers

1. How to: View Crime Statistics for Atlantic Beach

Click on the link to view Atlantic Beach Crime Statistics or go to www.crimereports.com Atlantic Beach Crime Statistics

2. How to: Report a Crime

In an emergency, call "911" on your telephone and talk to the Emergency Communications Operator. For reporting a crime when there is no emergency, you are encouraged to call (904) 247-5859 to obtain assistance.

3. How to: Obtain a copy of a Report

You can obtain a report in person at the Police Department located at 850 Seminole Road, Monday - Friday, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Reports are usually available the next business day (except holidays. There is a fee of $3.00 per report. Requests can be submitted by mail. However, it may be necessary to call the Records Division at (904) 247-5863 prior to mailing the requests.

Records requests that involve researching multiple records and compiling data are subject to administrative fees to cover the costs of the processing. Estimates of the fees will be provided in advance in such cases.

4. How to: Pay a Traffic Citation

Traffic citations may be paid by U.S. Mail at:
Jim Fuller, Clerk of Circuit Court
Duval County, Florida
P.O. Box 660
Jacksonville, Fl 32201-0660

For Internet Payments you may access: www.coj.net/pub/clerk
You may charge by telephone, for $9.95 fee, at (904) 630-1313.
The amount of the citation and the other options should be listed on the back of the traffic citation.

5. How to: Pay a Parking or Animal Control Citation

These may be mailed or paid in person at: City Hall, 800 Seminole Road, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233. The amount of the ticket and the other options should be listed on the Parking Citation or Animal Control Citation.

6. How to: Obtain Fingerprints

The Police Department rolls fingerprints for Atlantic Beach citizens and Atlantic Beach businesses only. They can be done during anytime or day. To be printed, you must provide a photo I.D.

There is no charge for this service.

7. How to: Check on an Investigation

To make inquiries or provide additional information on criminal investigations, citizens should contact the investigating officer, or contact Detective C. Pegram at (904) 247-5859 or cpegram@coab.us

8. How to: Hire an Off-Duty Officer

To make a request for an off-duty police officer, contact Lt. T Layson(904) 247-5859 ext. 10 or tlayson@coab.us, or pick up a request form from the police station.

The hourly rate of pay is $30.00 per hour with a 4 hour minimum for residential parties, estate sales, security jobs and traffic control. The rate of pay is $35.00 per hour with a 4 hour minimum at any establishment which serves alcohol. Cancellations may be made at anytime; however if the cancellation is less than 24 hours before the start of the requested time, a minimum of 4 hours salary will be incurred by the requesting party.

9. How to: Commend an Officer

The best way to commend, or say thank you, to a department member is in writing. An e-mail, or a short handwritten note should be addressed to the Chief of Police, and it may be mailed or dropped off at the station. It will be forwarded to the officer and his or her supervisor, and may be added to the officer's personnel file.

10. How to: Make a Complaint Against an Officer

If you observe an officer doing something that you believe is questionable or inappropriate, then you are encouraged to immediately contact his/her supervisor by telephone at (904) 247-5859. If the supervisor is not immediately available, please leave your name and telephone number and the supervisor will call you back.

If the complaint involves serious misconduct, then you may contact Lt. Gualillo at (904) 247-5859 ext 31 or vgualillo@coab.us.

The purpose of the Internal Affairs Division is to insure the continued confidence of the community by upholding the integrity of the department. Members of this unit vigorously investigate all complaints with the understanding that a thorough investigation will not only bring to light any misconduct or inappropriate activity, but will also protect employees and the department from unfounded and unwarranted accusations.

11. How to: Request Additional Traffic Enforcement

When you identify a traffic problem that may need additional enforcement, you may call (904) 247-5859 and speak with the shift commander, or you may contact the Traffic Supervisor Lt. V. Gualillo at (904) 247-5859 ext 31 or email vgualillo@coab.us, or you may write a letter to the Chief of Police at the department address. All traffic complaints are posted and assigned to officers for specific attention and enforcement.

12. How to: Request a Street Light

Requests for streetlights and repairs of existing streetlights are coordinated through Lt. Gualillo. He may be reached by telephone at (904) 247-5859 ext 31, email at vgualillo@coab.us, or by U. S. mail at 850 Seminole Road, Atlantic Beach, Fl. 32233. Lt. Johnston will review and evaluate all requests, and he will coordinate with the Jacksonville Electric Authority to have lights installed or repaired as needed.

13. How to: Request of Traffic Control (Stop Sign or Traffic Light)

Requests for traffic control devices may be sent to the Traffic Supervisor, Lt. V. Gualillo at (904) 247-5859 ext 31 or vgualillo@coab.us for evaluation and review. Lt. Gualillo will conduct a traffic study of the location, and he will review applicable guidelines relative to traffic controls. Based on his conclusions, he may have a traffic control installed, or he may implement other mechanisms designed to address problems in the area.

14. How to: Make a Suggestion or Recommendation

If you have suggestions to improve Police operations, such ideas are encouraged to help improve services while keeping costs to a reasonable level. Although telephone calls to Chief Classey are acceptable, written correspondence such as an e-mail, a letter, or a short note are encouraged.

▼

Public Utilities Questions

Show All Answers

1. How do I report a water break?

If you notice water leaking in the City right-of-way, or from your meter, contact the Public Utility Department at any time of the day or night at (904)247-5834.

2. What should I do if I see a manhole overflowing?

Contact the Public Utilities Department at (904)247-5834 as soon as possible. Avoid walking through or contacting water from overflowing manholes, if possible.

3. Should I call the City if sewage backs up into my home or business?

A sewer backup in the building may be caused by either a private or City problem. If your plumber believes there is a problem in the City line, call Public Utilities at (904)247-5834 and our staff will meet with the plumber on site to determine the cause and correction for the problem.

4. What is the hardness of City water to set my water softener?

The hardness level of the City's water is 300 milligrams per liter, which equates to 18 grains per gallon.

5. How do I report a problem with low water pressure?

Contact the Public Utilities Department at (904)247-5834, and we will send a technician to investigate.

6. How do I report a water quality problem?

Call the Public Utilities Department at (904) 247-5834 for any water quality problems.

7. Who should I call with questions about my bill?

All billing issues are handled by the Finance Department. Ms. Joyce Lanier is the Customer Service Supervisor at (904)247-5811.

8. What is our water pressure in Atlantic Beach?

Water pressure in the Atlantic Beach service area is typically 52 psi. Pressure may drop if there is a large water break or if fire hydrants are in use.

9. How do I get my water turned off if I have a leak on my property?

Each home or business should have a water shut-off valve on private property, usually near the building. If you cannot locate your shut-off valve, contact Public Utilities at (904)247-5834.

10. Where does our drinking water come from?

Atlantic Beach's drinking water comes from deep wells in the Floridan Aquifer.

11. Where can I get more information about our drinking water?

Call the Public Utilities Department at (904)247-5834 with any questions you may have. The annual water quality report is also very informative, and is available on the website, or you may request a copy be mailed to you by calling Public Utilities.

12. Who regulates our drinking water and wastewater treatment?

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection regulates all drinking water and wastewater treatment activities, and determines compliance with the legal requirements for contaminants. They can be contacted at (904)807-3300 or through the link below. Florida Department of Environmental Protection

13. Do we have irrigation restrictions in Atlantic Beach?

Yes. The rule applies to those using City water or private wells. Never irrigate between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. During Daylight Savings Time spring and summer), limit irrigation to TWO DAYS PER WEEK on specific days - Residential at odd numbered addresses or no address(Wed. & Sat.); Residential at even numbered addresses (Thurs. & Sun.); and Non-residential (Tues. & Fri.) During Eastern Standard Time (fall and winter) limit irrigation to ONE DAY PER WEEK on specific days - Residential at odd numbered addresses or no addresses (Sat.); Residential at even numbered addresses (Sun.); and Non-residential (Tues.) The St. Johns River Water Management District has water conservation information on their website. St. Johns River Water Management District

14. How can I get information about water and sewer availability at my location?

Contact Public Utilities Director, Donna Kaluzniak at (904)270-2535, or fax an availability request to her at (904)242-3479.

15. What is the process to abandon my septic tank and convert to the City sewer system?

Contact Chris Walker, Conveyance Division Director, at (904)247-5874, or Donna Kaluzniak, Public Utilities Director at (904)270-2535. They can provide information on the process and financing options.

▼

Public Works - Questions

Show All Answers

1. BEACH ACCESS -- The dune crossover was damaged by heavy surf. Who needs to be notified regarding repairs?

The City's Public Works Department, (904) 247-5834, handles dune crossover repairs.

2. CITY LIMITS -- Is my property in Atlantic Beach or the City of Jacksonville, and who maintains my street?

A City Limits Map is available on the City's website. Contact the Public Works Department at (904) 247-5834 if further assistance is needed. City Limits Map More...

3. DITCHES -- Who should I contact regarding debris/blockages in the stormwater ditches?

The City's Stormwater Division is responsible for maintaining clear passage within the City's ditches. Please call (904) 247-5834 to report problems with the ditches.

4. DRIVEWAY -- Do I need a permit to install a driveway? Who do I contact for driveway information?

Yes. For residential and commercial driveways, contact the Building Department at (904) 247-5826. A Right-of-Way Use Permit is required to install driveways within the City's Right-of-Way. For driveways using non-standard materials (e.g., pavers or river rock concrete), a Revocable Encroachment Permit is required. This permit authorizes the holder to install the driveway, but limits the City's responsibility for restoration if removal is required for City utility work.

5. DUMPSTERS -- Who do I contact for information regarding dumpster enclosure and collection service(s) for commercial and multi-family residences?

Contact Carlene Matthews at (904) 247-5812.

6. EASEMENTS -- How can I find out if the City has any easements on my property or how wide the right-of-way is in front of my property?

You may review your property title information, legal description or recorded plot of your subdivision. For further assistance, contact Malcolm Clemons at (904) 247-5839.

7. ERU's -- What is an Equivalent Residential Unit (E.R.U.)?

Equivalent Residential Unit (E.R.U.) means the statistical average horizontal impervious area of "residential units" (single family, mobile homes, multifamily, condominiums, etc., within the City). The horizontal impervious area includes, but is not limited to, all areas covered by structures, roof extensions, patios, porches, driveways and sidewalks. For Atlantic Beach, this figure is 1790 square feet.

8. FLOODING -- My home and street flood. How can the City fix the problem?

The property owner should contact the City's Stormwater Division at (904) 247-5834 to report the problem. The City will then evaluate the case and determine if the City is responsible for fixing the problem and what the actions will be.

9. FLOODING -- Is my property in a flood-zone, flood-plain or flood-way?

You will need to contact a licensed registered surveyor or Civil Engineer to make a flood determination. The City has FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps and citizens are welcome to view them. Contact Mike Griffin at (904) 247-5813. Flood zones may also be viewed on the City of Jacksonville's GIS Website (http://maps.coj.net).

10. IMPERVIOUS -- What is Impervious Area?

Impervious area or impervious surface means a horizontal surface which has been compacted or covered with a layer of material so that it is highly resistant to infiltration of water. It includes, but is not limited to, semi pervious surfaces such as compacted clay, as well as streets, roofs, sidewalks, parking lots and other similar surfaces.

11. INSPECTION -- Does the City inspect development sites and subdivisions?

The Public Works Department's Stormwater Division inspects private and commercial construction projects for erosion and sedimentation control for roadways and stormwater facilities that will be maintained by the City. The City Inspector will also monitor ongoing construction. For further information, call (904) 247-5834.

12. PAVING -- Does the City re-pave all the streets?

All resurfacing work, including large patches and overlays, are done by contractors under the supervision of the Streets and Maintenance Division.

13. PERMITS -- When do I need a Right-of-Way Permit? Who do I contact?

Anytime you are excavating or constructing anything in the City's right-of-way, you will need a Right-of-Way use Permit. For permitting, contact the Building Department at (904) 247-5828.

14. PERMITS -- What is the procedure for submitting development plans?

All development plans should be submitted to the Building Department at City Hall. For more information,call (904) 247-5826.

15. POTHOLES -- Who do I contact to report potholes?

Contact the Public Works Department at (904)247-5834.

16. RECYCLING -- I live in an apartment/condominium? How do I recycle?

The City's waste hauler does not provide recycling service to multi-family residences where garbage service is provided by dumpster. Contact the management of the complex or check in the Yellow Pages under recycling. Numerous companies will provide free waste audits on the materials generated by the tenants. Then it is a matter of contracting with the company which can provide the most reasonable service.

17. SANITATION -- My household garbage/recycling and/or yard waste was not picked up. What should I do?

The City has contracted with Waste Services, Inc. for trash pick up. You may contact Waste Services, Inc. directly at (904) 731-0551, or contact the Public Works Department at (904) 247-5834.

18. STREET LIGHTS -- The street lights are out on my street -- who should I contact?

Streetlights are maintained by JEA. JEA may be contacted at (904) 655-6000 (or at www.jea.com). Provide them the address/location of the street light and the pole number.

19. SURVEYS -- Someone placed flags and marks in my front yard. Did the City put them there? Does the City perform surveys to locate my lot corners?

The City does not do surveys for individual use. If you need a survey you should contact a private surveyor. Call Public Works at (904) 247-5834 to determine if an upcoming improvement/repair project is planned for your area.

20. TRAFFIC SIGNS -- Who do I contact to fix the traffic sign on my street?

The City maintains street signs on all City streets except A1A (Mayport Road) and SR 10 (Atlantic Blvd.). If a traffic sign on a City street needs repair or replacement, contact the Public Works Department at (904) 247-5834. To report a malfunctioning traffic signal, contact the City of Jacksonville Traffic Signals Department at 387-8965.

21. UTILITY LOCATES -- Who do I call for utility line locations?

Call Sunshine State One-Call of Florida, Inc. (1-800-432-4770)