www.houstontx.gov > Frequently Asked Questions

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

If you have any other questions for us, please e-mail the webmaster@cityofhouston.net
or view the links in the yellow navigation bar above.

How can I pay water bills online?
- You can pay by check. Paying by credit card will be available in the near future. Get more information at www.houstonwaterbills.org.
Where can I find a map of Houston divided by ZIP Codes?
- That page is http://cbtcws.cityofhouston.gov/zipcodes
Can I view City Council meetings on the Internet?
- No. However, you can find programming information at www.houstonmunicipalchannel.org.
Can I view this website on my mobile device?
- Our mobile site is www.houstontx.gov/mobile
Where can I find public transportation information?
- We have light rail information on our site, or you can go to www.ridemetro.org.
Where can I learn more about the local toll roads?
- You can use your EZ Tag for both the Houston and Dallas toll road systems.
What are those pictures of Houston on the City's home page?
- You can contribute your favorite photo of Houston for placement on our www.houstontx.gov home page, as well as view a gallery of our rotating home page photos.
What are the pickup dates in my neighborhood for recycling, garbage, and heavy trash?
- The following links go to Recycling, Garbage, and Heavy Trash Pickup Schedules. We also have a separate page for Holiday Trash Pickup Schedule.
Can I adopt a stray animal from a city shelter?
- Yes, we have the following link for Animal Control.
Where can I find Houston's "Pooper Scooper" Ordinance?
- In our Code of Ordinances, Chapter 6 (Section 6-24)
How do I register as a City Supplier and/or an MWDBE?
- You can see information on this via the links for Register as a City Supplier and MWDBE Directory Information.
How can I get a handicap parking sticker for my car?
- These stickers are administerd by the State of Texas. You can get more information from our Mayor's Office for People With Disabilities.
Does the City administer Driver Safety Courses for those who get traffic tickets?
- The Municipal Courts Dept. has the information you need for the Driver Safety Course.
How do I form a Civic Club?
- Information on How to Form a Civic Organization is available via the Citizens' Assistance Office.
Where can I get marriage certificates and divorce decrees?
- This is administered by the Harris County Clerk's Office.
What are the school districts in the greater Houston area?
- Our site provides you can find a list of area independent public school districts.
How can I apply for a DBA?
- This is also administered by the Harris County Clerk's Office.
Where can I get a passport?
- The U.S. State Department's Houston Passport Agency is located at 1919 Smith Street, Suite 1400 in downtown Houston. Appointments are required and are free of charge.
Where online is Houston's Chamber of Commerce?
- It's known as the Greater Houston Parnership, at www.houston.org.
How do I report a street light outage?
- Via the Centerpoint Energy Website.
What are the City's and County's property tax rates?
- They can be found via the Harris County Appraisal District