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Burning

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1. Does the Town have formal regulations about burning and fires?

The Town Code prohibits all open burning of refuse or other material. This includes leaves, grass, landscape debris and commercial waste. The Town does provide the public collection of certain materials through the Town’s waste collection contract.

Open fires may be used for cooking food, recreational purposes, ceremonial purposes and the operation of craft exhibits and pageants of historical significance. These types of events do not require permits from the Town, however it is necessary to notify the designated authority for the Town of the event, date, time and purpose.

Failure to comply with the “Open Burning” law could result in being charged with a Class 3 Misdemeanor and as much as $300.00 in fines. Enforcement of this ordinance will involve the Town of Purcellville Police Department and the County Fire Marshal’s Office.

Questions regarding the Town's Open Burning Ordinance or to obtain a copy of the complete Ordinance, please contact Jennifer Moore at 540-751-2333.

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Business

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1. Do I need to obtain a Town Business and Professional Occupational License (BPOL) even though I have a County BPOL?

Yes. The Town is a separate jurisdiction and has its own permit requirements.

Link to Finance Dept - Taxes & Fees - Business License info

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Decks and Fences

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1. What are the Town rules on building a fence or deck?

Construction in Town that requires a county building permit also requires a Town zoning permit. Additions, decks, fences, finishing basements, and many other activities require permits, which can be obtained from the Planning and Zoning Department. If you are not sure whether an activity requires a permit, call the Planning and Zoning Department at 540-338-2304. In new developments, fence locations and heights may be limited along the roads to address sight distances. Please check with the Town before purchasing or installing a fence.

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Homeowner Associations (HOAs)

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1. Can you provide a list of Homeowner Associations (HOAs)?

We do have a list that was prepared in 2005, however, keep in mind that HOA Board members change often throughout the year and the Town’s list may not include the most recent information.

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How Do I ?

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1. How do I obtain a vehicle decal?

Please visit the Finance Department -Taxes & Fees web page. The URL below will take you directly to the Town Vehicles Decals section of the Taxes & Fees web page. Finance Department - Taxes & Fees

2. How do I obtain a recycling bin?

Please stop by Town Hall at 130 East Main Street to pick up a recycling bin. Each household receives one bin at no charge.

3. How do I check for road closures due to events, parades or construction?

Please visit the Town Special Projects page or click on the link. Here...

4. What can I put in a recycling bin?

Please view the pamphlet. Here...

5. How do I set up a water account?

Please visit the Finance Department -Taxes & Fees web page. The URL below will take you directly to the Water and Sewer Bills section of the Taxes & Fees web page where you will find a New Utility Account Application. Finance Department - Taxes & Fees

6. How can I reduce my water bill?

Conservation is the best means to reduce your water bill. Installing low flow fixtures and appliances are often possible measures. You can also reduce water use by limiting watering and following other conservation methods as described in our water conservation brochure. Water pipes or toilets leaking can increase water use significantly. Toilet leaks in particular can be very hard to locate. The Utilities Department has dye tablets available which you can use to check for leaks. If a leak is discovered in your house or on your property, contact a plumber immediately to identify and repair the leak. If this procedure is followed, you may be able to obtain a water leak adjustment to your bill under certain circumstances. If the leak requires the water to be turned off in order to fix it, call Town Hall at 540-338-7421 or after hours call the Town emergency number 540-338-7700. Any damage caused to the meter may be charged to you. Problems detected with Town water and sewer lines should be reported during business hours.

7. How do I obtain a permit e.g. zoning, occupancy etc.?

You can obtain an application form from the Planning and Zoning Department which will contain a list of the documents that are required for each respective permit

8. When do I need a zoning permit?

A zoning permit is required for all new construction as well as alterations, conversions, extensions or enlargements to or demolition of existing structures. The most common residential zoning permits issued are for fences, sheds, swimming pools and finished basements. If you are unsure whether you will need a zoning permit, please check with the Planning and Zoning Department before beginning your project. Zoning permits are valid for six months and the County will not issue a building permit without an approved zoning permit

9. How do I apply for a zoning permit?

Bring your completed zoning permit application to the Planning and Zoning Department with a current plat of your property showing the extent of the project and a list of contractors who will be completing the work. Additional submission items may be required depending on the project. All zoning permits require signature by the property owner

10. What are the Development Fees associated with the various applications and permits provided by the Planning and Zoning Department?

See the 2006 Development Fee Schedule which went into effect on July 1, 2006.

2006 Development Fee Scheule

11. How do I determine which zoning classification applies to my property? What uses are permitted on my property?

Zoning districts are sections of the Town in which zoning regulations are uniform. These districts are shown on the Zoning Map. The purpose statements and regulations pertaining to those districts are found in the Zoning Ordinance. The Zoning Map and Zoning Ordinance are available for review in the Planning and Zoning Department.

12. How do I determine what kind of improvements I can make to my property?

The improvements you can make on your property are determined primarily by the permitted uses of your zoning district and the setback regulations as defined in the Zoning Ordinance. The Planning and Zoning Department can advise you on any additional restrictions that may apply.

13. Can I operate a business from my home?

Home occupation permits are required for business owners operating a home business. Businesses in a residential area may only be operated on a limited scale that protects the residential character of the neighborhood. (See Article 3, Section 8 of the Zoning Ordinance.) Signs advertising a home business are not allowed. Additional information from the Finance Department

14. How do I determine how many parking spaces I need at my business?

Parking regulations are defined in Article 6 of the Zoning Ordinance. Parking requirements must be met before an occupancy permit can be issued

15. What kind of sign can I post on my property?

Sign regulations are defined in Article 6 of the Zoning Ordinance. Sign permits are required for most temporary and permanent signs. All commercial signage is subject to review by the Board of Architectural Review. One real estate sign is permitted in the yard of a house for sale but all off-premise signs are prohibited.

16. How can I find out what kind of development is coming to our Town?

All development plans that have been submitted to the Town are available for public inspection at the Planning and Zoning Department during regular business hours.

17. What is the Board of Architectural Review?

All commercial structures, signs, improvements and major landscape features are subject to approval by the Board of Architectural Review. The Board of Architectural Review meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month. Submission of an application and all accompanying materials are requested to be submitted two weeks in advance of the meeting. Applicants must be present at the monthly meeting in order for the Board to take action.

18. How do I flush my hot water heater?

Follow this link

Flushing Hot Water Heaters

19. How do I find Town Press Releases?

An index exists of all active Press Releases issued by the Town. A Press Release will appear on the Index for at least 60 days after issuance unless duration of the announced event is earlier. [View the press release Index]

20. How do I reach the Official Payments Corporation from the Town's Website?

The last icon on the left side of the Home page titled "Official Payments Corporation" is a direct link to the Official Payments website to assist residents in paying Town related bills on-line.

21. How do I report a Street Light outage?

Dominion Virginia Power maintains the street lights within the Town of Purcellville. To report an outage, contact Dominion Virginia Power at 888-667-3000. You will need to obtain the pole number from the pole and the closest address prior to making the report.

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How do I flush my hot water heater??

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1. What are the benefits of flushing my hot water heater?

If you have been experiencing yellow or brownish color water you may want to flush your hot water heater. Mineral deposits can settle in the bottom of your hot water heater and continue to cause your hot water to be discolored even after it has been cleared up in the distribution system. So please consider to flush your home's hot water heater. Instructions

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New Developments and Street Repairs, Maintenance and Plowing

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1. What is the Town’s guidance on trees?

Development plans usually require trees to be planted on some or most new house lots for beautification. Often these trees are not planted until all new home construction is completed. The developer or your salesman can inform you about any landscaping that may be planned for your lot.

2. When will the roadways in a new subdivision have their final layer of pavement?

Roadway surfacing will usually not be completed until the development has been completed. This means the roadway will be rough for some time because of uneven paving and manholes protruding above the surface.

3. Who fixes the sidewalks and fixes and plows the roads?

If you are in one of the new developments, the developer owns the road until all requirements on the plans, such as final paving, drainage ditches, planting trees, sidewalks, etc. have been completed. This means the developer is responsible for street repairs and snow plowing until the road has met Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) requirements and is accepted by the Town. The Town owns and maintains all roads in Town with the exception of Rt. 287 and Main Street. Generally, the Town will be responsible for plowing Town-owned streets and will support VDOT with the plowing of Rt. 287 and Main Street. The Town maintains the sidewalks after the acceptance period but residents are responsible for cleaning/shoveling their own sidewalks.

4. What is the street sweeping schedule for the Town in 2010?

Purcellville 2010 Sweeping Schedule

Commercial Sweeping every 1st and 3rd Week (Thursdays)

Residential Sweeping

Week of April 5th
Week of June 7th
Week of August 9th
Week of October 4th

“Schedule subject to change with notice due to work load”

During scheduled street sweeping activities, residents are encouraged to move vehicles and obstacles from the roadway.

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Planning and Zoning

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1. How do I obtain a permit (e.g. zoning, occupancy, etc.)?

You can obtain an application form from the Planning and Zoning Department which will contain a list of the documents that are required for each respective permit.

2. What is the zoning of my property?

Provide the Planning and Zoning Department with the address and the staff will provide you with the requested zoning information.

3. What are the Development Fees associated with the various applications and permits provided by the Planning and Zoning Department?

See the 2006 Development Fee Schedule which went into effect on July 1, 2006.

2006 Development Fee Scheule

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Post Office

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1. Where is the Post Office?

The Post Office is located at 220 North Hatcher Avenue just beyond the W & OD Trail at the intersection with East Loudoun Valley Drive.

The phone number is 540-338-4808.

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Taxes

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1. Can you provide a breakdown of my tax bill e.g. mortgage, real estate tax, tax rate, etc.

You must provide the Finance Office with the tax map reference number or parcel identification number which can be found on your tax statement and the requested information can be provided.

2. Please explain the Town Personal Property Tax?

The Town taxes personal property located within Town limits on January 1 of each year. The Town does not prorate personal property tax. These taxes are billed on November 5 and are due on December 5 each year. The State of Virginia now provides relief for qualifying vehicles. The Loudoun County Commissioner of Revenue prepares all assessments and may be contacted at 703-777-0260.

Link to Finance Dept - Taxes & Fees - Personal Property info

3. Please explain the Town Real Estate Tax?

Real Estate Tax – Town real estate taxes are billed semi-annually. Tax due dates are June 5 and December 5. The Loudoun County Department of Financial Services prepares all assessments and may be contacted at 703-777-0290. The Town mails bills by May 5 and November 5 directly to taxpayers who are responsible for notifying their mortgage companies.

Link to Finance Dept - Taxes & Fees - Real Estate info

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Town Council

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1. When, where and what time are the Town Council meetings held?

All regularly scheduled Town Council meeting are held the second Tuesday of each month at Town Hall in the Council Chambers beginning at 7:00 PM.

2. What is the process for speaking at the Town Council meetings on an item?

You may contact Jennifer Moore, Town Clerk, at 540-751-2333 to sign up prior to the meetings. There will also be sign up sheets placed in the lobby of Town Hall prior to the meeting or you may see the Clerk just prior to the meeting to sign up.

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Train Station

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1. Can I reserve the Train Station and what are the restrictions?

The Train Station is set up in a conference room type setting. There is no charge to use the Train Station if you are a non-profit organization. If you are a for profit organization or do not have a 501(C)3 designation, the cost is $30 per reservation. You may schedule the Train Station by calling Jennifer Helbert, Town Clerk, at 540-338-7421 Ext. 333.

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Trash

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1. What are the trash and recyclable collection schedules?

If there are other residences occupied on your street, just place the trash curbside for pickup on Wednesdays. Recycling and Yard Waste are also collected on Wednesdays. The Town has recycling containers available to its residents upon request which can be picked up at the Town Hall. If you are the first resident on your street, then please call the Town Hall 540-338-7421 to start pickups.

The Town of Purcellville contracts with American Disposal Services which may be contacted at 1-866-884-8700. There are no additional fees for refuse collection.

2. My trash, recycling, yard waste were not picked up today. Are they coming back to get it?

The trash company picks up trash, recycling and yard waste on Wednesdays. It is possible that they are using separate trucks for each item and only picked up one of the items and will be back later with a different truck for the other items. If by 3:00 p.m. your trash/recycling/yard waste has not been picked up, please contact Marty Kleoden or Staff at the Town Hall at 540-751-2300 and he/they will contact the company and let them know that your items did not get picked up. It is important that you place your trash by the curb the night before to avoid missed collections.

3. How do I obtain a recycling bin?

Please stop by the Town Hall at 130 East Main Street to pick up a recycling bin. Each household receives one bin at no charge.

4. What can I put in my recycling bin?

Please view the linked pamphlet. View Pamphlet...

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Vehicles

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1. Where is the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Office and what are the directions to the office?

The DMV Office is located at 109 Bailey Lane. From East Main Street, go north on Hatcher Avenue to Hirst Road (four-way stop). Turn left on Hirst and proceed to the intersection with Bailey Lane, turn left and proceed to 109 on the left past the mini-storage and it is in the same building as Virginia Regional Transit.

Rates

2. How do I obtain a vehicle decal?

Bring your DMV Registration(s) to Town Hall. If you wish to transfer a decal from another locality in the State of Virginia, scrape the old one off the windshield and bring it to Town Hall with you. If you are in the military the decal is free (you will need to present your military ID and an earnings statement). You are required to display a Town of Purcellville decal within 30 days after moving into the Town.

Link to Finance Dept - Taxes & Fees - Vehicle Decal info

3. What are the rules for Town Vehicle Decals?

Town residents should purchase and display a Town decal on their vehicles within 30 days after moving into Town. All decals must be renewed by April 15 of each year. All outstanding personal property taxes must be paid in full prior to the purchase of the decal..

Link to Finance Dept - Taxes & Fees - Vehicle Decal info

4. What is the process for determining the tax on a vehicle if it was sold or the owner has moved? Does the tax need to be paid if the individual has moved from the Town or County?

If you move from the Town or County, you are legally required to pay all taxes due. Delinquent taxes are referred to collection agencies for settlement. Rates

5. Where do I check for road closures due to events, parades or construction?

Please check under the Town Special Projects page or click on the link. Here...

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Water

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1. How do I set up a water account?

Please call the Finance Department at 540-338-7093 and indicate that you would like to set up an account.

2. Why are the water and sewer rates higher in many smaller jurisdictions than in larger jurisdictions?

Rates are a function of the number of users in the system. Large localities such as Fairfax County have lower rates spread over a large user base whereas Purcellville has a much smaller user base to cover the cost of the services provided. This is generally referred to as "the economy of scale.” It is also important to note that the level of water and wastewater treatment is dictated by the EPA and the State and the Town must meet those standards irrespective of the costs. The State is requiring several new treatment requirements that are expected to further affect costs. In addition, operations and materials costs continue to increase which further stretch our current resources.

The Town of Purcellville water and sewer rates are based on the volume of water consumed. The amount a resident pays for sewer is directly related to the amount of water used regardless if the use is indoors and sewer-related or outdoors and not sewer related. Water bills are issued for a two month period. Average household use is between 200 and 300 gallons per day without outside water uses such as lawn watering, car washing and pool filling. A lawn sprinkler can use 450 gallons per hour (a cost of about $4.80 per hour). Outside uses can easily double and triple average household usage. We have also found that residents in new homes may experience higher water use than at their previous home. This could be caused by the high pressure in the Town system. If you do not already have a pressure reducer, installing one may help..

Link to Finance Dept - Taxes & Fees - Water and Sewer info

3. Does the Town use water meters?

The Town owns the water meters installed on your property and for safety reasons we ask residents not to open the meter crocks or handle the meters. Occasionally during inclement weather, water usage is estimated and these estimates are based on the average usage for the past 12 months.

4. How can I reduce my water bill?

Conservation is the best means to reduce your water bill. Installing low flow fixtures and appliances are just one possible means. You can also reduce water use by limiting watering and following other conservation methods as described in our water conservation brochure. Water pipes or toilets leaking can increase water use significantly. Toilet leaks in particular can be very hard to locate. The Town office has dye toilets available which you can use to check for leaks. If a leak is discovered in your house or on your property, contact a plumber immediately to identify and repair the leak. If this procedure is followed, you may be able to obtain a water leak adjustment to your bill under certain circumstances. If the leak is such that you require the water to be turned off in order to fix it then call the Town Hall at the numbers below. Any damage caused to the meter may be charged to you. Problems detected with Town water and sewer lines should be reported during business hours (M-F, 8:00 AM -5:00 PM) to the Town Office 540-338-7421 or after hours to the Town emergency number 540-338-7700.

5. When are water bills mailed?

The Town of Purcellville mails water and sewer bills bimonthly at the first of February, April, June, August, October, and December. The bills are due the first business day of the following month. If you have questions or do not receive a bill, please contact the Finance Department at 540-338-7093. Please note that from time to time bills to the Town are lost or held up in the mail. The Town will consider these bills late. As an alternative the Town has a drop box on the west side of the building that many residents use for correspondence.

6. Does the Town have fluoride treated water?

Yes.

7. What are Storm Ponds?

Storm ponds are built in most new developments to catch soil running off graded areas during construction to help maintain water quality in streams. During this time water is retained in the pond in order to allow the sediments to settle. The ponds are usually converted into permanent storm water retention structures after completion of the development. After completion of the development, water may remain in the pond for long periods of time. Be sure to inform your children that these areas are dangerous and should be avoided at all times. As a permanent retention structure, the pond is designed to hold water for 1-2 days in order to provide treatment for the water entering the pond and to reduce flood peaks to limit erosion to downstream creeks. Most storm ponds are owned and maintained by the Homeowners Association once it is converted to a permanent structure. Without regular maintenance, the storm pond may not function properly. Contact your HOA if you feel that a pond is not being maintained properly.

8. What Causes Discolored Water?

The elements present in the water that causes yellow, orange or brown discolored water is iron and magnesium. These are considered secondary contaminants by the Virginia Department of Health. The elements are not considered detrimental to human health at these levels but are required to be removed for aesthetic reasons. If you experience discolored water, please contact Town Hall. Often discolored water is generated by a disturbance to the water system such as a fire or water theft. The Town can provide flushing to clean up the discolored water and can also provide sample bottles which you can use to collect a sample when you notice discolored water. The information that you provide with this sample is helpful for us to determine the cause of the discolored water.

9. Is the Water Safe to Drink?

The Town of Purcellville strives to provide the best quality water possible to every user. The Town water typically exceeds all state drinking water standards and has even won a second place award from the Virginia Rural Water Association for the best tasting water in the State. An annual Water Quality Report is provided to each user which identifies the quality of the water.