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Building

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1. Do I have to get a permit to work on my own home?

If the work requires a permit per the Florida Building Code or the City’s Land Development Code, you are required to obtain a permit. If the work you are doing to your home requires it, you need to submit proper plans for review and have the required inspections performed while working on your home. Building Permits

2. Can I act as my own contractor?

State law requires construction to be done by licensed contractors, but under exemption to the law you allowed to act as your own contractor with certain restrictions. You may act as an owner-builder provided that you are building or improving a one- or two-family home, a farm outbuilding, or a commercial building with a construction value of less than $25,000.00. It must be for your own use and occupancy and not built for sale or lease. If it is a residence, you must reside in the home for at least a year after the improvements. As an owner-builder, you are required to provide direct, on-site supervision of the construction and are responsible for making sure any subcontractors are licensed. Any unlicensed person must work directly for you under your direct supervision, which would make you responsible for deducting FICA and withholding tax and providing workers’ compensation for that person.

3. How much does a building permit cost?

The cost varies, depending on the type of permit and the value of the work being done. The minimum permit fee is $22.50 for work valued under $1,000.00.

4. How many sets of drawings are required?

Two sets of drawings are required for residential permits. Three are required for commercial permits.

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

Some permits that don’t require plan review can be issued when you come in, if you have all the information needed. Permits that require plan review (depending on the scope of work) average one to two weeks, if you have all the information and documents needed.

6. What type of work requires a permit?

It is difficult to create such a list without leaving out some type of work that would require a permit, but the list below should help:

- New Residential - Roofing - Fences - Patio Slabs - Sidewalks - Demolitions - Gas - Air Conditioning - Water Heaters - Windows/Doors

- New Commercial - Pools - Sheds - Driveways - Carports - House Moves - Electric - Fire Sprinklers - Mechanical Work

- Residential Renovations/Remodels - Commercial Renovations/Remodels - Signs - Screen Enclosures - Garages/Garage Doors - New Mobile Homes & Replacements

7. How do I determine if I am in a flood zone, and if flood insurance required?

Flood zone information is given out by the Building Department by calling 724-1515; however, the most accurate information is provided by a survey of your property by a Florida Registered Surveyor. If the property is located in the 100 year flood plain, federal flood insurance will be required by the Mortgage lender.

8. Will I need a permit to remove trees?

Yes. Permits to remove trees in Safety Harbor are issued by Pinellas County. To find out the regulations call Pinellas County at 727-464-3480. Generally, any construction in excess of 100 square feet, or where trees are to be removed, requires a tree permit. Forms are available in the Building Department.

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Code Enforcement

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1. What codes does the City enforce?

The City enforces all ordinances, regulations and codes officially adopted by the City. The City does not enforce deed restrictions or homeowners association regulations; these are enforced privately through civil action.

2. What do I do if I have a complaint?

Call the Code Enforcement Officer at 727-724-1555 to discuss your complaint. If the complaint appears to be a possible violation of City regulations, the Code Enforcement Officer will conduct an investigation of the complaint.

3. Does the City accept anonymous complaints?

Yes, you can make an anonymous complaint without leaving your name, address or phone number.

4. What if the complaint is valid?

If the complaint is valid the Code Enforcement Officer will send the property owner of record a letter explaining the nature of the violation, what is necessary to correct the violation, and the amount of time given to correct the violation; normally 10 days.

5. What if the violation is not corrected?

In that case, the Code Enforcement Officer will issue an official Notice of Violation to the property owner requiring that the violation be corrected giving a date certain to come into compliance. If the violation persists, a hearing will be scheduled before the Code Enforcement Board.

6. What is the Code Enforcement Board?

The Code Enforcement Board is a group of citizens appointed by the City Commission. This Board has the authority make an official finding that the violation exists, order corrective actions, and to issue fines if the violation persists. The fines can constitute a lien on the violator’s property. The liens do accrue interest and include administrative costs as well as the fine. Code Enforcement Board Webpage

7. Will the City abate violations?

The City may abate violations only in the case of extremely unsafe or hazardous situations, and where property is overgrown the City may hire a company to cut the grass. Any abatement costs are also recorded as a lien on the violator’s property.

8. What constitutes high grass?

Weed or plant growth in excess of 12 inches in height that is within 75 feet of any improved property or 25 feet of any street can be declared a public nuisance.

9. What is an inoperative vehicle?

An inoperative vehicle is defined as a vehicle that is not in working condition or a vehicle that is unlicensed or unregistered. Only 1 such vehicle is permitted, provided it is stored in a carport or garage, or is fully covered with a car cover and neatly maintained.

10. Who do I contact about animal issues?

For pickup of stray animals - Humane Society of North Pinellas - 797-7722

For pickup of dead animals on City right-of-ways – Public Works – 724-1550

For nuisance alligators – Nuisance Alligator Hotline (a division of Florida Fish & Wildlife) – 866-392-4286
(Please note: This agency is the only one in the State of Florida that captures alligators. Alligators must be at least 4 feet in length or more for them to respond.)

11. What are my watering days and times?

The current watering schedule permits watering only one day a week as provided below:
Monday: Addresses ending in the numbers 0 or 1 or letters A thru E
Tuesday: Addresses ending in the numbers 2 or 3 or the letters F thru J
Wednesday: Addresses ending in the numbers 4 or 5 or letters K thru O
Thursday: Addresses ending in the numbers 6 or 7 or the letters P thru S
Friday: Addresses ending in the numbers 8 or 9 or the letters T thru Z

The hours you may water are from 12:01 AM to 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM to 11:59 PM

12. What if I have a well?

If you have a private well, lake or pond that you use for irrigation you may water 1 day a week as follows:
Monday: Addresses ending in the numbers 0 or 1 or letters A thru E
Tuesday: Addresses ending in the numbers 2 or 3 or the letters F thru J
Wednesday: Addresses ending in the numbers 4 or 5 or letters K thru O
Thursday: Addresses ending in the numbers 6 or 7 or the letters P thru S
Friday: Addresses ending in the numbers 8 or 9 or the letters T thru Z.
The hours you may water are from 12:01 AM to 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM to 11:59 PM.

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Community Development

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1. What is my Zoning and Land Use Designation?

A zoning designation pertains to the type of zoning district that the property is located in. A separate land use designation is applied by the City’s Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map, and the two designations are meant to be consistent. You can determine your zoning and land use designations by calling the Community Development Department for information at 727-724-1555 or on our website here: Zoning and Future Land Use

2. Does the City have a Comprehensive Plan?

Yes. Under state law, all local governments are required to adopt a Comprehensive Plan.

3. What is a setback?

Setback requirements are based upon your zoning designation, and are the required distance that any structure has to be from the nearest property line. You can obtain setback information by calling the Community Development Department at 727-724-1555. More information...

4. Does the City have impact fees?

Yes. Impact fees are charged to new construction and are designed to offset the impacts to provide services that accrue to the City to accommodate growth. Generally, impact fees are charged at the time of building permit, and are charged for public safety, sanitation, sanitary sewer, transportation, libraries, and parks and recreation.

5. What do I do if I want to annex?

If your property is located with the City’s planning and municipal service area voluntary annexation is encouraged. In order to annex you must be contiguous to a property already located in the city limits. Annexation applications can be obtained from the City Clerks Office.

6. What are the property tax implications of annexation?

Generally, given the City’s low tax rate there can be a slight savings in property taxes due to the fact that you will no longer be required to pay certain district taxes that you pay if you are located in the unincorporated County. Those district taxes include the County MSTU, fire, and library cooperative taxes.

7. How much is variance application?

$150.00

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Finance/Utility Billing

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1. I just moved into Safety Harbor, where do I go to set up for water, sewer and garbage service?

City Hall
750 Main St.
Safety Harbor
727-724-1555

2. What information do I need to set up the utility account?

Owner - Sales contract/Purchase agreement. $100 water deposit (cash, check or money order) (inside city limits)

Rental - $160.00 water deposit (inside city limits)

3. How often does the city of Safety Harbor bill?

Utility accounts are billed monthly.

4. What methods of payment can I use to pay my bill?

Payment Options - As a convenience for our customers, we provide a variety of payment options to pay the Utility bill.

Cash, Check, Money Order, Credit Card (on City website only) and Direct Debit. For more information: Click on Living in Safety Harbor, Utility Services, Utility Billing

5. What are the City Hall hours of operation?

City Hall is open Monday thru Friday from 8 am - 5 pm.

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Leisure Services

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1. How do I get a boat slip in the City Marina?

You must first be a resident of the City of Safety Harbor. Once you have established residency you my call 727-724-1572 to have a wait list application form sent to you. Once the form is filled out, returned and received by staff your name will be placed on the wait list. The City Marina has 44 slips. When a slip is vacated the slip is filled by the next resident on the wait list.

2. What type of programs or special events does the City offer?

The city offers wide varieties of special events, child care, fitness, senior, children, adult and athletic programs year round. To find out more you may browse this website under Special Events or Recreation Programs. You can also view our most recent Recreation, Events, Activities and Leisure Brochure online.

3. How do I sign up for an activity or program?

You can sign up for a program at either of our Recreation Centers. When you visit our site staff will ask you to fill out an activity consent form. You may print the form using this link and complete it prior to visiting us. It may be helpful to register at the site that the program is offered to familiarize yourself with the facility, but regardless, staff at both sites will be able to take care of your needs.

4. Why are there two sets of rates?

The majority of City programs will have two rates, one for Safety Harbor Residents and one for Non-Residents, typically 50% higher than the Resident Rate. If you are a Non-Resident and purchase a yearly Recreation Card you will be entitled to the same fees charged to Residents. The cost for the Recreation Card is $75 per individual card or $125 for a family card.

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Library

Show All Answers

1. How can I get a library card?

You will need a photo identification and proof of Pinellas County residency. A valid driver's license will suffice. If your driver's license does not yet contain your current address, a document such as a utility bill or apartment lease can be used to verify your address.

If you live in another county such as Pasco, you must first obtain a library card from your home county library system and then register that card with us. You may apply at the library or online. Apply for a PPLC Library Card

2. How many DVDs can I check out?

You may check out six DVDs. DVDs are loaned for 7 days and can be renewed one time if there are no hold requests pending. (There is no limit on the number of VHS tapes you can check out. VHS tapes are also due in 7 days.)

3. How long can I check out a new book?

Books designated as "new" can are loaned for 14 days. They can be renewed if there are no hold requests pending. There is no limit to the number of new books you can check out.

4. Can I recommend a book or other item for purchase?

Yes, you can recommend materials for the library to evaluate for purchase and addition to our collection. Please remember, not all items recommended can be added. If an item you recommended is not added, we will try to place an interlibrary loan request to secure it for you. To recommend an item, please click on the link.
Recommend an item for purchase

5. How can I find out what items are checked out on my card and when they are due?

Patrons may check their library card accounts online via PALS, the library's catalog. Available information includes items currently checked out, reserves, and fines. When checking your account online, you will need your library card number and passcode, which is usually the last four digits of the telephone number on your account.

Patrons may also call the library's circulation department, 727-1525
x114 for this information.
Check your account

6. Does the Library have Internet access?

Yes. The library provides free Internet access to adults and children. The Adult Services section of the library has 18 computers with Internet access and Microsoft Office. There are five public computers in the Children's Wing. Computers are available on a first-come, first-served basis and can be accessed through reservation software available when you arrive at the Library.

Patrons are limited to 30 minutes using the computers if others are waiting. Printing is 10 cents per page for black-and-white prints.

When registering to use a computer, please let the staff know if you have special computing needs.

Wireless access is available throughout the building using your personal laptop computer.

7. What are the library hours?

Monday - Thursday: 9:30 am - 8:00 pm
Friday: 9:30 am - 6:00 pm
Saturday: 9:30 am - 5:00 pm
Sunday: 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm

8. Where is the library located?

The library is located in downtown Safety Harbor, FL at 101 Second Street North.

We are just north of the Safety Harbor Spa, a block off Main Street. Directions to the SHPL

9. Can I volunteer at the library?

Yes, the library gratefully accepts assistance from adult and youth (ages 15-17) volunteers.

Please call us for further information. (727) 724-1525 x101 or fill out a Volunteer Form online. Volunteer Form

10. Does the library accept donations?

The library gratefully accepts both material and monetary donations. Material donations such as books or audio/visual items are first evaluated for possible addition to the collection. If we cannot add them to the collection, we sell them at the Friends of the Library Book Sale held four times a year. We cannot accept any textbooks, National Geographic collections, moldy materials or encyclopedia sets. Monetary donations are accepted for the purchase of book memorials or toward general operating expenses.

Through the Safety Harbor Library Foundation you can leave a legacy of giving for generations to come through donations of cash, real estate, securities, or bequests. To donate online click below.
Donate Online

11. Does the library have books for sale?

The Friends of the Library sell books, magazines, videos, and audio materials that were donated, or were removed from the collection. Proceeds benefit the library.

The Friends Bookstore is located in the library. Large book sales are scheduled quarterly by the Friends. Check the monthly newsletter for announcements.

12. What if the item I want isn't in the catalog?

Library staff will assist you in finding items at other libraries. We can request items from other libraries locally and throughout Pinellas County.

If the item is available in our local (PALS) catalog at another library in the county, it will be shipped to the library of your choice in about five business days. If the item is not available in PALS, it could take a few weeks to a month for the item to arrive here for checkout after an Interlibrary Loan is placed.

In PALs, fifteen (15) items can be placed on hold request, per card holder. Holds on DVDs and audio books are limited to six per card. Please contact the Reference Desk at 724-1525 x112 for more information.

13. Can I check out books if I don't have my library card?

Yes, library members may check out items by showing a valid photo ID.

14. I lost an item, paid for it, but now I found it. What do I do?

Refunds for lost items will be given up to two months from the date the item was paid for. The $5.00 processing fee will not be refunded. (No refunds will be made for items valued less than $5.00.)

15. Do you have bicycle locks I can borrow?

Yes, we have a limited supply of bike locks to loan. Please see the circulation desk. You can borrow one lock per library card for a period of 24 hours. The daily fine is $1.00 per day.

16. I think I returned an item, but it still shows on my card as out. What happens now?

We will place a Claim Return on your item. We will then check the shelf to see if we made a mistake and didn't check it in properly. If we find it, it will come off your card and of course, we will not charge you a fine. Mistakes sometimes happen.

The Library allows six claim returns per person, before unreturned items are charged to a patron's account.

17. How long can I checkout items and how many of each?

You can have a total of 50 items checked out per patron card. There are limits on some items noted below.

Books - 28 days
New Books - 14 days
Audio Books - 28 days (Limit 6)
Music CDs - 14 days (Limit 25)
DVDs - 7 days (Limit 6)
Videos - 7 days
Magazines - 14 days

Youth Reference-7 days (Limit 4)
Youth Holiday Books- 14 days(Limit 4)
Sunshine State Books-14 days(Limit 4)
Youth Non-Fiction- 28 days (4 per subject)

You can renew items twice, as long as it is not requested by another patron.

18. How do I place an item on hold?

You can request a total of 15 items. The maximum number of DVDs and audio book CDs you can request is six each per card. For example, if you request six DVDs you can request nine other items, except for audio CDs which are also limited to six requests.

For more information on placing holds, click on the link. Place a Hold

19. How do I make a List?

You can make a list of items you want to remember for the future. Please click on the link for detailed instructions. More...

20. How do I renew a book or other item?

Items may be renewed unless there is a patron hold against the item. Non-renewable materials are children's holiday books, children's electronic game, and MP3 players. DVDs can only be renewed once. You may renew an item at the library, online, or over the phone.

If you are renewing online, you will need your library barcode number and password. Your password is typically the last four digits of your telephone number. Renew Items Here

21. Does the Library have Internet access?

Yes. The library provides free Internet access to adults and children. The Adult Services section of the library has 18 computers with Internet access and Microsoft Office. There are five public computers in the Children's Wing. Computers are available on a first-come, first-served basis and can be accessed through reservation software available when you arrive at the Library.

Patrons are limited to 30 minutes using the computers if others are waiting. Printing is 10 cents per page for black-and-white prints. Color printing is available for 50 cents per page.

When registering to use a computer, please let the staff know if you have special computing needs.

Wireless access is available throughout the building using your personal laptop computer or other wireless device.

Printing from your personal computer to the library printers is not available. You can send a document to your email address,access it from public computers and then print it.

22. Does the Library have a public FAX?

Yes. Local, 813, and toll free FAXes are $1.50 per page. Long distance FAXes are $2.00 per page.

The FAX is located in the Reference Department. This is an outgoing FAX service only.

23. How can I comment on a recent program or event?

Patron comment cards are found at the circulation and reference desks and can be submitted in person or left in the comment box at the circulation desk. We welcome your feedback, good or bad, to improve our services. (A program evaluation form can also be found here and printed and returned to us, or scanned and returned to us via email, shplref@pplc.us)
Click here for evaluation form.

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Local Business Taxes

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1. What is an business tax and why do I need a business tax receipt?

Business tax is a method used by a local government to grant the privilege of engaging in or managing any business, professional and occupation within its jurisdiction. Chapter 205 of the Florida Statutes governs the authority of municipal governing bodies to collect the business taxes in Florida and set provisions for the enforcement of this process.

Under section 14.01 of the city code requires all businesses within the City of Safety Harbor to obtain a business tax receipt prior to commencing business. A receipt would be required if you represent to the public goods or services for a fee.

2. How can I apply for a business tax?

To obtain a City of Safety Harbor business tax, your business must be physically located with the city limits. An application may be obtained on our website or in the Building Department at City Hall. Our hours of operation are Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

3. What do I need to apply for a local business tax?

The address of the business, general description of your business, FID number or social security number, any regulatory certificate or state license you may be required by the state to have. You will also need to provide (if using any other name other than your legal name) a copy of your fictitious name certificate filed with the Florida State Dept.

4. What is the cost of a business tax?

The cost of a business tax receipt depends on what the business classification is. To find out the specific fee which would apply to your business, please call 727-724-1515. Each applicant shall be required to obtain a separate tax receipt for each business category, which applies to his or her business activities.

5. When will this business tax expire?

A business tax is not valid for more than one year. Fiscal year for tax receipts is October 1 through September 30th. Renewals are mailed in August. Business tax receipts issued after April 1st are charged half price.

6. Can I operate a business from my home and can I operate more than one business out of my home ?

(A) Yes, home businesses are permitted; however, certain restrictions apply. These restrictions are included on our application for a home-based business.
(B) More than one business is permitted as a home occupation.

7. If my business is not in Safety Harbor and I have a job to do in Safety Harbor do I need a business tax receipt?

Anyone transacting business here that does not live in the city would be required to register his or her business. A $25 registration fee is required at time of registration.

8. Are hot dog stands permitted in Safety Harbor?

Although they are not a permitted use in the City, anyone interested can take part in our weekly flea market events, as well as all of the City's special events. Application can be made by contacting our Chamber of Commerce located at 200 Main Street. Their phone number is (727)726-6407

9. Am I required to register a fictitious name?

A person may not engage in business under a fictitious name unless the person first registers their name with the State of Florida Division of Corporations. A fictitious name means any name under which a person transacts business in this state, other than his legal name. Legal name means a person's given name.

10. How long will it take to receive my business tax receipt?

All business applications must be routed for approvals. Home occupations require zoning approval. All other businesses require zoning, fire, and building department approvals. Generally speaking, must applications take a week to ten days to receive.

11. Is my business tax receipt transferable?

Yes. If you are transferring ownership, you must present a bill of sale and current business tax receipt, co-signed by the buyer and the seller. Transfer fees are based on 10% of your business tax receipt. You will also need to make out a new updated application

12. Am I exempt from the business tax receipt?

Florida Statutes allow exemption from business taxes for certain disabled persons, the aged (65 years of age or older), widows with minor dependents, disabled veterans or their unremarried spouses, and certain charitable organizations. If you feel you qualify for exemption, please inform our business tax department.

13. Will I be able to open up business anywhere in the City?

Any business location must be compatible with our City's zoning regulations. If you have any questions regarding your business zoning, please call our zoning official at (727)724-1555.

14. How are the business tax fees determined?

Business tax receipts are authorized by Florida Statute Chapter 205 and defined under City of Safety Harbor Code.

15. Can I solicit or canvass my business in Safety Harbor?

Canvasser or solicitor is defined in our City of Safety Harbor Code, Chapter 17. Any person wishing to engage in business within the City would be required to obtain a permit from the building department.

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New Resident Information

Show All Answers

1. Where can I find information about hurricane evacuation?

Citizens and public safety agencies can determine their evacuation zones in several ways.

First, anyone with internet access can go to the Pinellas County Emergency Management home page , select interactive maps from the menu on the left side of the screen, then click on either Evacuation Level Lookup - (text only) for slow connections or Evacuation Level Maps - (interactive) for fast connections. Once the map comes up, click on search by address on the the top menu, then enter the street address in the pop-up window.

Second, call the Pinellas County Interactive Voice Response System (IVRS) at 727-453-3150 and enter the telephone number of the property in Pinellas County only that you want to check.

Third, one could consult a copy of the official 2004 Pinellas County Hurricane Evacuation Guide that was distributed and is still available as libraries, post offices, Allstate Insurance Co., Kash 'n' Karry Grocery Stores, and the American Red Cross. Simply locate your house on the map to determine the level.

Fourth, access the Evacuation Guide online.

As a final option, you can call the Pinellas County offices at 727-464-3800 and they will look it up for you, as time permits.

2. Where are the parks?

Safety Harbor has many parks and other facilities. The largest is the County's Philippe Park on Philippe Parkway in the northeast section of Safety Harbor. Click here to view a list of City Parks.

3. Do you have a recycling program?

Yes! Safety Harbor has a residential curbside recycling program with once a week pickup. For information, see the Recycling Information page

4. Is there a Library?

Yes. The Library is located at 101 2nd Street N., 727-724-1525.
It is open:
Monday through Thursday 9:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Friday 9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Saturday 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and
Sunday 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Library Website

5. How can I find renters for a room in my house or find a room for rent?

Call Sandy Herskowitz and ask about the Home Share Program. 727-945-1258

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Public Works - Sanitation

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1. When is my garbage collected?

For single-family homes, garbage is collected twice a week - either Monday and Thursday or Tuesday and Friday, depending on your address. Recycling, yardwaste and appliances are collected one time per week.

2. When should I place my garbage can, yardwaste or recycling bin at the curb?

All items to be collected should be at the curb no later that 6:30 AM the day of collection. Please remove containers from the curb by 7:00 PM on your collection day.

3. Where should I place my garbage container?

Place containers within 2 feet of the curb with the handle facing your home, or away from the curb. Be sure to place your container at least three feet away from any obstructions.

4. Where can I take paint and other chemicals?

To protect the enviroment and ensure the safety of our residents, the City does not accept household hazardous waste for curbside collection. These items include solvents, paints, auto fluids and household/pool chemicals. The City does however hold a hazardous household chemical collection day once a year, in the fall. For more information on household chemical collection, contact 724-1550.

5. My container has been lost/damaged/stolen. What should I do?

To report damaged, lost or stolen containers, contact 724-1550 or send an e-mail to sanitation@cityofsafetyharbor.com. For repairs, please empty and wash the container and place it curbside after arranging pickup.

6. Where can I get free mulch?

Mulch is available free of charge at 1200 Railroad Avenue. Please bring a shovel and a container. For other locations throughout Pinellas County, call 464-7500.

7. Who do I contact to have a dead animal removed from the roadway?

Call us at 724-1550 and we'll be happy to help.

8. What do I do with my old phone book?

Please click here

9. How do I get rid of...? (an A to Z guide of how to get rid of anything)

Click here to "get rid of it"

10. What can I place in my recycling bin?

Currently we collect #1 and #2 plastics bottles, aluminum and steel cans, mixed paper and newspaper. Mixed paper consists of junk mail, office paper, magazines, catalogues, phone books and fiberboard (cereal boxes, pasta boxes, etc).

11. Do you collect on holidays?

The City does not collect trash or recycling on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day or New Years Day. However, you will still receive two garbage collections during those weeks. No yard waste will be collected until the following week. Here is the schedule for holiday collection:
• If the holiday is on a Monday, then the regular Monday – Thursday route will be collected on Tuesday – Thursday. The regular Tuesday – Friday collection will be collected on Wednesday – Friday.
• If the holiday is on a Tuesday, then the regular Tuesday - Friday collection will be on Wednesday - Friday.
• Wednesday yard waste collection is cancelled until the following week.
• If the holiday is on a Thursday, then your regular Thursday collection will be on Wednesday.
• If the holiday is on a Friday, then the regular Tuesday - Friday collection will be on Tuesday - Thursday. And the regular Monday – Thursday collection will be on Monday - Wednesday.
• Recycling will follow the same schedule.

12. What type of container should I use?

The City of Safety Harbor will supply a 90-gallon green container for your garbage. All garbage must be placed inside the can. Bulk items that will not fit in the can due to size restrictions can be placed three feet away from the can on the first collection day of the week. There is a limit to seven bulk items.

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Public Works - Streets & Stormwater

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1. There is a construction project currently underway in my neighborhood? Can you tell me who is doing the work?

Contact the Engineering Department at 725-1555. If this work is a City project, you will be put in touch with the appropriate supervisor.

2. Where do I report a street light outage or other problems with a street light?

Contact Progress Energy at 1-800-700-8744 and press option 4.

3. How often are City streets swept?

City streets are swept on a six week rotating schedule.

4. How often are City maintained ditches mowed?

Ditches are maintained on a rotating twelve week schedule.

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Public Works - Wastewater

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1. Who should I contact with questions about problems with my sewer service?

First contact the Public Works Department at 727-724-1550 regarding sewer interruptions.

2. What do I do if I have a backed up sewer line at my residence?

First check to see if the problem is in just one area of your building. All sinks, toilets, washing machine drains, etc, go to one service line. The service line carries your wastewater to the City sewer main in the street or easement. The property owner is responsible for all inside plumbing and the service line until it reaches the City’s lateral usually at the Right of Way (ROW). Some private service lines extend into the City’s Right of Way (ROW).
Next, the owner or resident should call the City's Public Works Department prior to calling a plumber. We will gladly come out to assist you. The City of Safety Harbor cannot reimburse residents for plumbing bills when a plumber is called first. Our telephone number during our regular business hours (6:30am to 3:00pm M-F) is 727-724-1550. After hours calls should be directed to our after hours emergency number: 727-724-1555 and follow the instructions.

3. How can I locate the sanitary sewer lines on my property?

The City of Safety Harbor does not keep this information. You should consult the original construction documents for your home, or contact a licensed plumber. To find out where your tap into the City system is located, contact the Public Works Department at 727-724-1550 for specific information.

4. A sanitary sewer lift station in my neighborhood has a flashing light or a ringing alarm - what should I do?

Call Safety Harbor Public Works at (727) 724-1550 ext 224 if between 7:00 AM and 3:30PM Monday through Friday. After hours, weekends and holidays call City Hall at (727) 724-1555, press #2 and leave your name, phone number and address or location of the problem. You will receive a response within 15 minutes. If no response within 15 minutes call the Fire Department at (727)724-1520.

5. A sewer manhole is overflowing - what should I do?

Call Safety Harbor Public Works at (727) 724-1550 extension 224 if between 7:00AM and 3:30pm Monday through Friday. After hours, weekends and holidays call City Hall at (727)724-1555, press #2 and leave your name, phone number and address or location of the problem. You will receive a response within 15 minutes. If no response within 15 minutes call the Fire Department at (727)724-1520.

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Public Works - Water

Show All Answers

1. Who should I contact with questions about leaks/problems with my potable (tap) water service?

Contact the Public Works Department at 727-724-1550 regarding water problems/leaks.

2. How can I locate my potable (tap) water service line?

The City of Safety Harbor does not keep this information, but your water service line must come from the water meter serving your property, and generally will run in a straight line from the meter to your residence. You may contact the Public Works Department for specific information at 727-724-1550

3. What should I do if I experience low water pressure?

Many factors, such as line maintenance or the flushing of hydrants and water lines, could cause low water pressure. A plumbing leak on the property, a water softener with blocked lines, a leaky sprinkler system, or even a house valve that has been turned off accidentally, can also contribute to low water pressure in a home. Should you experience low water pressure, there are a couple of areas to check before calling the Public Works Department:

• Check the outside garden hose faucet (hose bib) on the side of the house. Thypically the hose bib/faucet is before a water softener (if you have one) and is usually the source coming from the City's water main. If the water pressure seems low, check to see if the isolation valve or water shut-off valve for the residence has been turned down, also check with one of your neighbors to see if they are also experienceing low water pressure. If the valve is turned on and/or your neighbor's pressure is good, please contact the Public Works Water Division to have a technician come out to check for the problem.


• If the water pressure on the side of the house is excellent but low inseide the house and you have a water softener, try by-passing the water softener. If the pressure inside the house improves once you by-pass the softener, this would indicate a possible malfunction of the water softener. Check the softener settings to make sure the softener is not back flushing during times of usage. The middle of the night would be the best time for the softener to perform a back flush procedure.


• Should you notice an orange colored sandy appearance in the water and your water pressure is low, this would indicate that the resin bed in the softener has ruptured and you need to by-pass the water softener immediately and contact your water softener maintenance company


• Once you have checked all of the above possibilities and you still have low water pressure, please contact the Public Works Water Division at 727-724-1550 to have a technician come out to check for the problem.

4. What is Backflow prevention?

The reversed flow of a non-potable source into a potable system, because a pressure differential exists where the pressure on the non-potable side is greater than the pressure on the potable side. There are two (2) different types of backflow, backsiphonage and backpressure.

5. What is a cross-connection?

Any arrangements of pipes, fittings, fixtures, or devices that directly or indirectly connects a non-potable water system.

6. If my backflow device is leaking or damaged, who do I call?

Anytime a backflow device has a problem, contact the Public Works Water Division at 727-724-1550.

7. What is the pH, hardness, and iron content of my water?

The average pH in Pinellas County is 7.8; hardness is 12.9 grains per gallon; and iron content is .3