Contact the Legislative Information Division.  The toll-free number for Florida residents is 1-800-342-1827 or visit their website at www.leg.state.fl.us.

Contact the Florida Commission on Ethics at (850) 488-7864 or visit their website at www.ethics.state.fl.us.

Board vacancies are listed in the News For Neighborhoods, the city's monthly newsletter, or on our Advisory Board Web Page. All interested residents are encouraged to submit an application to the City Commission in care of the City Clerk Department. Please contact Marianne Rodriguez at (561) 243-7056 or by email at rodriguezm@mydelraybeach.com for more information

Contact Palm Beach County Citizens' Service Center at 930-4314 (toll free in Boca Raton, Delray Beach or the Glades) or visit their website at www.co.palm-beach.fl.us.

Regular City Commission meetings are held on the first and third Tuesdays of every month at 4:00 p.m. in the Commission Chambers at City Hall unless otherwise posted.

City Commission Workshops are held on the second Tuesday of every month at 3:30 p.m. in the City Commission Chambers at City Hall unless otherwise posted.

The Municipal Election is held on the second Tuesday in March. Any person seeking to qualify as a candidate for the office of Mayor or for the office of any City Commission seat must have been a resident of Delray Beach, who became an elector of the city on or before September 1st preceding the municipal election. The term is for three (3) years.

Commission meetings are conducted based on the agenda created by the City Clerk's office. The agenda is an outline of subjects to be considered at the meeting, and it is also used to promote orderly procedures. The agenda is conducted in the following order.

1. Roll Call
2. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag
3. Presentations
4. Comments and Inquiries on Non-Agenda Items From the Public - Immediately Following Public Hearings
   1. City Manager's response to prior public comments and inquiries
   2. From the Public
5. Agenda Approval
6. Consent Agenda
7. Regular Agenda*
8. Public Hearings
9. First Readings
10. Comments and Inquiries on Non-Agenda Items
    1. City Manager
    2. City Attorney
    3. City Commission

Public Comment: City Commission meetings are business meetings and the right to limit discussion rests with the Commission. Generally, remarks by an individual will be limited to three minutes or less. The Mayor, presiding officer or a consensus of the City Commission has discretion to adjust the amount of time allocated.

Public comment shall be allowed as follows:

1. Comments and Inquiries on Non-Agenda and Agenda Items (excluding public hearing or quasi-judicial hearing items) from the Public: Any citizen is entitled to be heard concerning any matter within the scope of jurisdiction of the Commission under this section. The Commission may withhold comment or direct the City Manager to take action on requests or comments.
2. Public Hearings/Quasi-Judicial Hearings: Any citizen is entitled to speak on items under these sections at the time these items are heard by the Commission.

There are 25 polling locations in the City of Delray Beach which will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Where you vote depends on your Precinct Number, which is located on your Voter Identification card. If you are unable to locate your Precinct Number, it is available on the Supervisor of Elections website at pbcelections.org or by contacting their office at (561) 656-6200.

You can pick up a voter registration form at the City Clerk's Department located at City Hall, or by mail from the Supervisor of Elections office by calling (561) 656-6200. If you are registered already but would like to change your current information, notify the Elections office in writing of the changes. A new card will be mailed to you with your revised information.

Suspected Noise code violations can be reported to the Code Enforcement Division via telephone by calling 243-7203 option 2.

Noise complaints will be investigated by Code Enforcement during the hours of 8 am to 5 pm. Noise complaints during night hours must be reported to the Police Department Non-Emergency number, (561) 243-7800, to gather information and it will be submitted to the Code Enforcement Division for follow up investigation.

Per FS. Chapter 162.06 (1)(b):

“A code inspector may not initiate enforcement proceedings for a potential violation of a duly enacted code or ordinance by way of an anonymous complaint. A person who reports a potential violation of a code or an ordinance must provide his or her name and address to the respective local government before an enforcement proceeding may occur. This paragraph does not apply if the code inspector has reason to believe that the violation presents an imminent threat to public health, safety, or welfare or imminent destruction of habitat or sensitive resources”.

In general, the answer to the above question is that Code Enforcement cannot handle those matters. Code Enforcement personnel handle violations of City ordinances only. If a situation fits within the scope of a City ordinance, we can usually handle the problem.

Suspected Abandoned/ Unlicensed Vehicle on public rights-of-way violations can be reported via telephone by calling 243-7203 option 2.

Traffic vehicle violations such as blocking driveways, illegally parked and or blocking access to streets must be reported to the Police Department Non-Emergency number, (561) 243-7800.

The City of Delray Bech does not have animal control. You may call Palm Beach County Animal Care and Control at (561) 233-1200.

Suspected Code violations can be reported via telephone by calling 243-7203 option 2 by visiting our offices at City Hall from 8 am to 5 pm, Monday thru Friday and by e-mail addressed to: codeenforcement@mydelraybeach.com.

Construction Site issues can be reported to the Code Enforcement Division via telephone by calling 243-7203 option 2.

Public Records Request (PRR) must be submitted via web site at: 

https://delraybeach.govqa.us/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(co3ctkjnlpkg0jhjxaj5cytd))/supporthome.aspx

Boundary information can be found by calling the School District of Palm Beach County at (561) 434-8000 or by checking their website at www.palmbeachschools.org. This web page can retrieve the information by street address, development or school.

Delray Beach Fire Rescue requires a person to hold current Florida certifications for Firefighter Minimum Standards, an Emergency Medical Technician or Paramedic in order to apply for a job. The City of Delray Beach Human Resources Department administers the hiring process. Normally, they only accept applications when a position is being advertised. Vacancies are determined by staffing requirements, budget, and are advertised in the classified ads of the local newspaper and the city’s website. For additional information, please contact our Human Resources Department at (561) 243-7080.

Firefighter certifications are administered by the Bureau of Fire Standards, Florida State Fire College in Ocala, Florida. For specific details please call 352-369-2800.

To acquire a medical record, if you are not the patient, you must have a medical authorization signed by the patient, patient's guardian or a subpoena. It is recommended that the request be made in writing with a copy of the police report or the patient's full name, address, date or incident and approximate time of day to assist in locating the report. The request must be brought to: Delray Beach Fire Rescue, 501 W. Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach, FL, 33444, or made through an attorney.

Can I plant shrubbery around a fire hydrant so that it’s not so visible?
No. Only ground cover is allowed to grow near a fire hydrant. All other plants and obstructions must be at least 7’6” from the front and sides of a fire hydrant and at least 4’ from the rear of a fire hydrant. All fire hydrants must have direct visibility and accessibility from the street.

If the curb by a fire hydrant is not painted yellow, can I park in front of the fire hydrant?
No. Automobiles must park a minimum of 15 feet from a fire hydrant, regardless of curb color.

Who do I call if someone is parked in front of a fire hydrant?
You need to contact the Police Department at 243-7800. Parking in front of a fire hydrant is a vehicle code violation.

If I see a fire hydrant leaking or without caps on it, who should I report it to?
You need to contact the Environmental Service Department at 243-7312. They are responsible for fire hydrant maintenance.

Will fire hydrant maintenance discolor my water?
Water is flowing during fire hydrant maintenance so the possibility of water discoloration is slight but possible.

Is there anything I should be doing to help with fire hydrant maintenance?
The Florida Fire Code requires a 7’6” clearance in front of and to the sides of a fire hydrant and a 4’ clearance to the rear of a fire hydrant. If you do not have the proper clearance, you should cut back any plants over-growing the fire hydrant or remove any post, fence, storage or trash that would obstruct or prevent the immediate use of the fire hydrant.

Pull over to the nearest shoulder of the road, left or right.

Firefighting requires several tasks to be performed simultaneously; each task requires multiple firefighters to perform these tasks safely and efficiently.

A unit dispatched to an emergency remains in contact via radio with the dispatch center. If the dispatcher receives new information that the emergency is unfounded or another unit comes available that is closer the initial dispatched unit will be cancelled.

Fire Rescue personnel work twenty-four hour shifts and purchase and prepare their own meals at their own expense. Personnel dynamics and dietary needs vary day by day, necessitating trips to the grocery store. The Department maintains a fuel and energy conservation policy discouraging specific trips for grocery pick up. The policy recommends that this function be performed while returning from duties that require them to leave the fire station, i.e. returning from a service call or other required activities.

Requests for emergency medical services are received by specially trained dispatchers and evaluated based on the caller’s information to determine the appropriate response needed. For specific types of calls the number of personnel needed to manage the patient(s) increases and therefore more than one unit is dispatched.

A vehicle accident can present various hazards and tasks that may need to be addressed simultaneously during patient assessment and treatment. They may include extrication of the patient and mitigating potential fire hazards. A fire suppression unit (Ladder or Pumper, depending on which is closer) is dispatched specifically to manage these concerns.

No. It is not currently, nor has it ever been, the position of your fire department to solicit monies by calling its residents. It is very unfortunate that there a nefarious organizations that may call and misrepresent themselves. Public safety is funded through tax dollars. Please do not fall victim to these individuals preying on the your generosity.

Yes.  Paint is essentially a protective covering that is applied to both frame and masonry surfaces. The choice of paint color for the exterior of a historic property is a combination of personal taste, and in historic districts, consideration as to how that paint color will affect the character of the neighborhood. (Delray Beach Historic Preservation Design Guidelines).

Approval of a Certificate of Appropriateness request along with the Building Materials and Color Sample Form is required to change the exterior color of a structure.

The City of Delray Beach offers a Historic Property Ad Valorem Tax Exemption for improvements to historic properties. In addition, there are Federal Historic Tax Credits that provide up to a 20% tax credit for the rehabilitation of historic non-owner occupied properties that are within a Nationally Listed Historic District or Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. For more information, visit the Delray Beach Historic Preservation Economic Incentive web page.

No. The City allows any general maintenance and interior alterations to be at the discretion of the property owner. Although, in order to ensure that the City’s designated properties retain their historical and architectural integrity, the Historic Preservation Board requires a review process for exterior alterations or additions to a historic structure or property. These reviews for approval, known as a request for a Certificate of Appropriateness, are reviewed for compliance either by the Historic Preservation Board or city Historic Preservation Division staff - depending on the extent of the work. Property owners can review the Certificate of Appropriateness application on-line and speak with staff regarding any questions they may have.

A property is considered "historic" by the City of Delray Beach if it is at least fifty years old and holds significance for its historical associations with a person, event, or trend in local, State, or National history or for its distinguished architectural merits including unique craftsmanship, materials, artistic value, or is the work of an architectural master.

The City of Delray Beach Historic Preservation Design Guidelines were produced to assist owners with recommended approaches to additions, alterations and design for new construction for both historic districts and individual sites.  Design guidelines are intended as a useful tool for design professionals, property owners, government officials and other interested parties. Because the guidelines address the character of historic property types in general, anyone who rehabilitates an older building can find relevant information in this guide. While the guidelines are especially directed to owners of properties that are listed in the Delray Beach Register of Historic Places, who are required to undergo a review process when changes to a historic building are made, they are equally useful to anyone who is involved in the rehabilitation of a vintage property.

Additionally, the city's Land Development Regulations provide guidance regarding the compatibility and appropriateness of modifications to a historic property in LDR Section 4.5.1.

Finally, the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties with Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings is a useful tool in determining the "Recommended" and the "Not Recommended" approach to modifying a historic structure or property.  The required Standards for Rehabilitation of a historic structure or property can be found within the document.  "The purpose of these guidelines is to provide guidance to historic building owners and building managers, preservation consultants, architects, contractors, and project reviewers prior to beginning work. It is always recommended that preservation professionals be consulted early in any project. The Guidelines are intended as an aid to assist in applying the Standards to all types of historic buildings."

Nominations for an individual property can be initiated by the property owner, the Historic Preservation Board or the City Commission. Nomination of a historic district can be initiated by the Historic Preservation Board or the City Commission. The nomination is then reviewed by the Historic Preservation Board and finally the City Commission for approval of the historic designation. Designation applications can be obtained at the Development Services Department.

Office Hours are 8:00 am - 5:00 pm.

• City Holiday Schedule

Yes, an application can be picked up in the Neighborhood Services Division, or be emailed to you via phone call. Staff can also explain the process and requirements of the First-time Homebuyer's Program. Contact Neighborhood Services Division staff at (561) 243-7280.

You can come in to the Neighborhood Services Office located at 100 NW 1st Avenue or call the department directly at (561) 243-7280.

Most programs have a lien period depending on the funding source. Please call Neighborhood Services at 561-243-7280 for specific answers.

Yes, they can receive multiple tickets. However, they cannot receive duplicate citations (same date + same space + same violation).

To contest a parking citation the customer will need to go to tocite.net/oneparkingdelraybeach and input their citation number, license plate number or VIN to locate their citation. Once the citation is located it shows the customer the citation and to the right, there is a "pay" button and underneath there's an "info" and "appeal" button. To contest click on the appeal button to proceed with this option.

Please Note, appeals cannot be accepted in office or over the phone. If your appeal is denied or it is after the 14-day deadline, you may appeal your citation further at a Palm Beach county courthouse

Yes, the City's aim is to allow all visitors and residents the opportunity to enjoy Downtown Delray Beach's unique mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops by enforcing time limits to turn over parking spots. For customers who wish to park for more than 3 hours, there are a variety of parking options including the public parking garages, beach-side public parking lots and the free public parking lots.

Payment Options:

1. Online with a credit or debit card at our online parking citations portal.
2. (Preferred) By Mail, please make check or money order out to the City of Delray Beach and Mail to PO Box 6787, Delray Beach, FL 33482 3. Leave check or money order in the drop box located at 95 1st NE Delray Beach, FL 33444.

To ensure proper credit, include citation number on check or money order. Do not send cash in the mail. For more information, please visit: parking citations portal or call 561-265-2100.

Contest Citation: You may appeal this citation online within 14 days of issuance.

Parkmobile is a pay-by-phone/app service that provides customers the convenience of paying for parking using their cell phone. Here's more information on Parkmobile.

Any fees which remain unpaid for 90 days shall be referred to a registered collection agency, which will pursue the collection of said fines in an amount not to exceed 40% of the amount owed due to the City of Delray Beach, FL Ordinance Sec. 71.999.

An additional twenty-five dollars ($25.00) civil penalty shall be imposed unless the amount designated on the complaint and parking ticket is paid within fourteen (14) calendar days from the date the complaint and parking ticket was affixed to that motor vehicle.

The fee is a $35 fine.

• Online: tocite.net/oneparkingdelraybeach
• Mail: Check or money order payable to:

City of Delray Beach
PO Box 6787
Delray Beach, FL 33482

• In office: Check, money order, or cash

95 NE 1st Avenue
Delray Beach, FL 33444

(561) 265-2100

Remember:

• Include the citation number on the check or money order.
• Pay within 14 days of receiving a citation to prevent additional fees.
• Do not mail in cash. Only checks or money orders are accepted.

Dogs and other pets are prohibited in all city parks, including the Municipal Beach and Atlantic Dunes Park. The exception to this is the use of the sidewalk of A1A. Please use a "doggie bag", located at various locations along the side walk to help keep the area clean. Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation has designated a Dog Park located in Lake Ida Park.

Picnics are permitted on the beach, however glass containers, alcoholic beverages and barbecue grills/fires are prohibited on the beach. When using a grill in a city park you must have a fire extinguisher nearby.

Yes, you can have a wedding on the beach, however you are not allowed to set up any chairs, tents, arches, tables, etc. The wedding must be between the hours of 8:00 am and sunset, with no more than 25 in attendance and you will have to contend with the beach being open to the public.

For more information contact Lynda Wieland at (561) 243-7250 extension 7252 or  wieland@mydelraybeach.com .

Parks and Recreation offers an Out of School Program which includes After School, Holiday Camps, and Summer Camp. Please check the Programs and Activities Page for additional current programs or classes available for children.

The Marina does have a coin operated (quarters) pump out station located at the north end of the Marina. It costs $2.50 per 3 minutes. The marina does not have a fuel pump.

Registration is ongoing, Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm at the Delray Beach Community Center, 50 NW 1st Ave.

Parents are required to bring to registration:

• The application
• Proof of residency
• Photograph showing head shot of child (approximately 1.5"x1.5")
• Copy of birth certificate for all children entering kindergarten
• Registration fee of $25.00 (cash, check made payable to The City of Delray Beach, Visa or MasterCard)
• Monthly fee for August.

The program is open to Elementary School children 5 years old to 12 years old.

Visit the Out of School Program for additional information or contact Tonya Smith at (561) 243-7250 extension 7159 or smithtc@mydelraybeach.com.

Beach Parking Permits can be used at Sandoway Park, Anchor Park, Atlantic Dunes Park and Ingraham Park parking lots. Both Delray Beach residents and non-residents can purchase a permit. Parking lots are open from 8:00 am to dusk.

Boat storage on the beach is permitted for sixty resident's sailboats less than twenty feet in length to be launched from shore, i.e., Hobie Cat, Prindle, Nacra, Sunfish, etc. Permits and additional information can be obtained by calling Gerard Smith at (561) 243-7358.

You need to fill out an application, or it can be faxed, mailed or emailed. Please contact Priscilla Patrick Patrick@mydelraybeach.com, (561) 243-7250 extension 7255.

The monthly or daily rate for dockage includes water and electricity, restroom and shower facilities, a coin operated washer/dryer and a free ice machine. Daily rentals are available at $60.00 per day plus tax.

Please call  for annual rates or any other questions.

For Pompey Park Athletic Field reservations, contact Pompey Park at (561) 243-7356.

All other Athletic field rentals are handled by Rashod Smith at (561) 243-7070 or you can email Rashod at RashodRa@mydelraybeach.com 

To print out an application or for more information visit our Permit and Rental Page.

Locate a vacant cabana or chair and sit down. The Oceanside Beach Services person on duty will approach you with rental information. The beach is fully set up at 9:00 am so there is no need for a reservation. They accept all major credit cards and cash. (561) 840-3373, email info@beachservice.com.

There are two public beaches located in Delray Beach: the Municipal Beach, centered at Atlantic Avenue, and Atlantic Dunes Park.

Room rental rates vary depending on room size. Minimum rental time is 3 hours.

• Single room - $30.00/3hr*
• Two-way room - $60.00/3hr*
• Three-way room - $90.00/3hr* (Pompey Park only)

 *Plus tax for the first 3 hours. *Additional hours are $20.00 per hour plus tax. A supervisor's fee of $30.00 per hour is charged if rental is not during scheduled center hours. Security Deposit required.

To obtain an application or for more information visit our Permit and Rental Page or call Lawanda Jackson, Community Center at (561) 243-7250 or Deirdra Thomas, Pompey Park at (561) 243-7356.

No. You would need to contact Abby Murrell, the center supervisor at (561) 243-7350 or email Abby at at murrell@mydelraybeach.com, to see if the center is available for the same date.

Copies of the permit go to our Parks Maintenance Dept., Park Rangers and Police Dept. Bring a copy of the permit with you the day of your function. Show the other people your permit and if they refuse to leave, notify the Supervisor on Duty (if applicable) OR go into the Fire Station or Community Center and call the Police Department at (561) 243-7800.

Fishing is prohibited in the lifeguard supervised areas of the beach open for public use.

Nudity and/or partial nudity, topless sunbathing, is prohibited.

No. All parks close at dusk.

The pavilions at the following parks are available to rent; Atlantic Dunes, Barwick, Bexley, Eagle, Lakeview, Mike Machek Boy Scout Park, Orchard View Park, Pine Grove and Veterans Park.  Also, the Gazebo at Veterans Park is available to rent.  However, the rest of the park is open to the public.

For rental information or to print out an application please visit our Permit and Rental Page or contact Lynda Wieland at (561) 243-7250 x7252 or WielandL@Mydelraybeach.com.

Chairs, yes; tent, no. The poles of the tent may damage irrigation heads.

The Community Center is open Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 9:00 pm, Saturday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm and is closed on Sunday.

A man-o-war is a type of jelly fish that produces a painful sting on contact. This can last anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes. The sting may produce swelling, redness, and trace the outline of the tentacle where it contacts the skin. Allergic reactions are possible but not likely and includes difficulty breathing, dizziness, and extreme pain. If you experience a man-o-war sting, please do not hesitate to contact a lifeguard on duty.

Sea lice is the larvae stage of the Linuke Jelly Fish. Sea lice season generally runs from mid April to mid July. Sea lice stings can cause an uncomfortable itchy rash with some individuals, which can last several days. Some side effects/symptoms of sea lice include fever and nausea. Contact your pharmacist (or doctor) for over-the-counter anti-itch remedies.

Tar can be removed by using any oil-based sun tan lotion or baby oil.

The city offers youth Basketball, Softball, T-Ball, Baseball, Football, Swim Team, Track & Field, and Cheerleading.

For more information contact Rashod Smith, at (561) 243-7356 or SmithRa@mydelraybeach.com.

For information on Swim Team, contact Pompey Park Pool at (561) 243-7358

The phone number for Aqua Crest Pool is (561) 278-7104. It is located Seacrest Blvd. just south of Gulfstream Blvd. and is a Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation Department facility.

Ball games, Frisbees and kites are allowed in the recreation areas at the northern and southern ends of the municipal beach. These areas are marked by large signs.

• Delray Beach Soccer Club (561) 272-2500
• Delray Beach National Little League (561) 272-2110
• Delray Beach American Little League (561) 703-4791

The Marina's address is 159 Marine Way, located west of the Intracoastal just south of the Atlantic Avenue Bridge.

Our Parks Maintenance Division can be reached Monday through Friday, before 3:00 pm at (561) 243-7260.

Eligible participants can purchase prior city service by repaying any refunds plus interest for the time they left until rehired.

No, there are no loan provisions in either Plan.

No, once your participation in the DROP begins, your retirement is final and you cannot change you option.

Yes, you may purchase up to three years of active duty military service after the completion of five years credited service. You are responsible for the full cost of all Actuarial calculations performed. The necessary forms for completion are available for printing under the Forms section on this website.

No, your employment status is not changed by the DROP. You may quit or your employer may terminate you in the same manner as before DROP participation.

Once you leave City employment from the DROP, you will be responsible for contacting ICMA for any payouts. There are many options; you may request a lump sum payout, partial lump sum, monthly, quarterly, or annual payments. You will set this up with ICMA directly.

The Plans are governed by a Board of Trustees who has a responsibility under Florida law for stewardship of the Plans’ assets. The trustees operate as a public body subject to the Sunshine Law and Florida statutes governing operation of public pension plans.

Investments are administered in accordance with applicable state statutes and local ordinances and resolutions, which are included in the Plans’ Statement of Investment Policy. (See under Resources on this website.)

One may participate for a maximum of 60 months. Police Officers and Firefighters must leave the DROP upon their 30th year of employment.

Please see the Pension Administrator two – three months prior to your retiring. At this time you will receive a rundown of the entire process along with the necessary forms needed for completion. Benefit estimates will be provided illustrating the different options available to you. Please note you will need to furnish proof of your age. I.E. copy of your birth certificate and if married a copy of your marriage certificate.

No, once you enter the DROP, your monthly benefit will not change should your wages change.

Paperwork will be generated upon your departure. You will receive a package to sign and return. It is usually 4-6 weeks after your final paycheck is issued. You will be given the choice of rolling your money over to another qualified plan without any tax implications or cashing out and paying 20% in federal taxes.

An employee is vested once they have participated in the General Employees’ Plan for five years. Vesting means that they have earned the right to retirement benefits. If you leave city employment after five years of service, you can leave your contributions in the plan and collect a monthly pension benefit upon eligibility. Police and Firefighter’s are vested once they have participated for ten years.

If an active employee dies the beneficiary would be entitled to a death benefit for either a service connected or non-service connected death. Please contact the Pension Administrator for more information on this.

If you terminate employment after you are vested, but before you are eligible for normal retirement, you may choose to retire early, defer receiving your monthly retirement benefit or request a refund of your contributions.

If you are vested, but not yet eligible to retire with full unreduced benefits based on your age and/or length of service, you may be able to elect to retire early and receive a reduced lifetime benefit. General Employees’ benefit will be reduced 5% for each year retiring early. Police and Firefighters’ benefit will be reduced 3% for each year retiring early.

For General Employees:

• Prior to October 5, 2010, age 60 with ten years credited service or thirty year’s credited service regardless of age.
• Effective October 5, 2010 age 60 with ten years credited service if within 10 years of retirement prior to October 6, 2010 or thirty years credited service regardless of age. One needs to be age 50 or have 20 years credited service on October 5, 2010.
• Age 62 and ten years credited service if hired prior to October 6, 2010 but not within 10 years of retirement or thirty years credited service regardless of age.
• Age 65 for all new hires effective October 6, 2010. (Thirty years credited service is not applicable.)

For Police Officers and Firefighters:

• Age 55 with at least 10 years of credited service or twenty years of service regardless of age.

DROP is a program under which one may retire while continuing working. Your monthly retirement benefits remain in the ICMA plan instead of being paid directly to you. Your benefits will be invested as you so choose for as long as you participate in the DROP. In the meantime you continue to work as you would normally. When the DROP period ends, you terminate employment and your monthly benefit will then start coming directly to you (or direct deposited into your bank account as you choose).

For General Employee participants employed on October 6, 2010, and retire or terminate employment on or after October 6, 2010, averaged earnings from the best 3 consecutive years within the last 10 years of employment will be used, times the multiplier of 2.5% (or enhanced multiplier of 3.0%), times years of service.

For General Employee participants hired on or after October 6, 2010, averaged earnings from the best 5 consecutive years within the last 10 years of employment will be used, times the multiplier of 2.5% (or enhanced multiplier of 3.0%), times years of service.

For Police Officers and Firefighters averaged earnings from the best 3 consecutive years within the last 10 years of employment, times the multiplier of 3.0% (or enhanced of 3.50%), times years of service.

The employee would be able to file for a disability retirement benefit. The plan requires the applicant be totally and permanently disabled from gainful occupation. The employee would have to apply for a disability retirement through the pension administrator’s office. (This also includes a full medical examination along with approval by the Board of Trustees.

One must be fully vested and have reached normal retirement.

Upon completing the necessary documents to participate, you will designate a beneficiary (ies). That beneficiary (ies) will receive any moneys in your DROP account.

We recommend that you contact your local Internal Revenue Service office or call the toll-free number (800) 829-1040 for tax information on disability income.

Retirees are eligible to continue coverage of life insurance and the city’s health insurance programs by paying the full premium. Please contact Human Resources’ Benefits Manager (561) 243-7154 for more information.

No, the city does not honor QDRO’s for either pension plan. The monthly benefit must be paid to the retiree.

Human Resources’ Benefits Manager is responsible for submitting any premium deduction changes. You may contact them at (561) 243-7154.

A new signed direct deposit authorization request is required for direct deposit changes. The form is available under the Forms section on this website. This change request generally takes 4-6 weeks for processing. It is very important that you do not close out your old account until the first deposit is in your new account.

The withholding form is available for printing under the Forms section on this website. If you are unable to print it, the Pension Administrative Office can send out a form to add, stop or change current deductions.

Requests for income verification must be in writing. Requests are answered within three days after receipt.

A death benefit is offered to the member of both plans depending on the option of benefit chosen at the time of retirement. If an unmarried retiree dies, any remaining funds would be forwarded to the retirees’ estate or designated beneficiary. In most cases, the funds a retiree had contributed to a pension plan while an employee, are usually exhausted within the first year of retirement.

COLA stands for Cost Of Living Allowance. Police and Firefighter retirees are eligible to receive annual COLA increases beginning on the first payment of their 25th anniversary. A minimum benefit increase of one percent per year will be provided, regardless of the amount of premium tax revenues received by the City. A maximum amount of the total annual benefit increase shall not exceed four percent, regardless of the amount of premium tax revenues received by the City.

There is no COLA for General Employee Retirees.

Any employee and/or retiree should notify the Pension Administrator of a change in address in writing signed by the employee and/or retiree. The Pension Administrator will then make sure all files are updated.

Please contact the Pension Administrator for more information on this. The following information will be needed: name of retiree, social security number, date of death information concerning who to contact regarding the deceased person’s account and a copy of the death certificate.

All businesses operating within the City are required to have an occupational license. You can apply for a license at the City's Occupational License office, located in the Development Services Wing of City Hall, 100 N.W. 1st Avenue. There is currently a standard fee of $156.56 for each type of business license, however, a few exceptions exist. You may speak with the Business Tax Receipt Office for assistance in determining your license fees. Licenses must be renewed annually.

In addition to a City business tax receipt, certain businesses must have licenses from State or County agencies. For example, restaurants require approvals from the State Division of Hotels and Restaurants. Contractors and certain professionals must be licensed by the State. Approvals from other government agencies must be obtained prior to receiving a City occupational license.

Services or businesses that are located in other cities, but conduct work within the City of Delray Beach (e.g. contractors, lawn services, taxi drivers) are not required to have a license from Delray Beach, however, they must register with the Business Tax Receipt Office.

For more information, contact the Business Tax Receipt Clerk at 243-7209.

Almost any type of sign you put up will require a permit. Contact Sign Permitting at 243-7200 for an application. Make sure that you obtain a permit prior to having the sign constructed. If a sign is installed without a permit, a triple permit fee will be imposed.

The Office of Economic Development (OED) is the primary resource for citywide business information, recruitment, development and assistance in Delray Beach. 

Contact:

Joan Goodrich

(561) 243-7054 

goodrich@mydelraybeach.com

First, work with a Planner or the Building Department Plan Reviewers to determine exactly what improvements are required. It is necessary that the staff person know the full extent of your plans as they pertain to physical improvements to the building or property. If you are still concerned about the requirements, ask the Planner or Plan Reviewer to set up an appointment with a management person. That person may be able to look at your project from a broader perspective and counsel you as to what, if anything, can be done to reduce the costs.

You will need to submit an application for a site plan modification. Before you make a formal submission, you should bring a survey and a basic plan to the Planning and Zoning Department's front counter. A Planner can determine if your addition complies with current codes, and will advise you as to the requirements for applying for a site plan modification. You should also check with a Plan Reviewer in the Building Department for permit requirements.

Home occupations are permitted subject to strict limitations on the type of business, the amount of square footage devoted to the use, the type of equipment or processes used, allowable signage, and the amount of traffic that can be generated by the use. A home occupation is subject to all applicable City occupational licenses and fees. Please note that some residential communities within the City prohibit home occupations altogether. Before you set up a business at home, check with your homeowner's association and the City's Occupational License office to see if your business qualifies as a home occupation.

The Historic Preservation Board may be able to grant variances and waivers to code requirements, if meeting those requirements would detract from the historic character of the site. Such actions can only be taken at a formal Board meeting, after an application has been submitted and a staff review performed. Your first stop when working within a historic district should be with the City's Historic Preservation Planner, or another member of the Planning staff.

If your business is the same as the previous occupant, and they just moved out, you are probably okay. But if you have a different type of business, or if the building has been vacant for six months or more, you may be impacted by code requirements. Check with the Planning and Zoning Department or the Building Department in the Development Services Wing of City Hall. It should be noted that Palm Beach County Impact Fees might apply for a change in occupancy.

Impact fees are assessed by local governments to recover some of the costs associated with servicing new development. For instance, if it is determined that your business will increase the amount of traffic on the surrounding road system, or will require additional water or sewage capacities, you may be assessed various fees for the provision of those services. Contact the Building Department for more information on those costs.

This type of change in use will require that separate bathrooms be available for both men and women. Handicap facilities must also be provided. Whenever you go into a space that has a different type of use check with the Building Department to find out what type of improvements, if any, are required. It should be noted that Palm Beach County Impact Fees might apply for a change in use.

Some changes in use represent an increase in intensity. Under these conditions provision of additional parking and concurrency concerns may apply. This may require processing of a site plan modification. It is recommended that you check with a Planner in the Planning and Zoning Department.

If you are moving into an existing structure, and your business is similar to the previous tenant's, you can probably handle the details yourself. If you are going to make repairs, add partitions, or change any plumbing or electrical fixtures, you will probably need permits which can only be issued to a licensed contractor. If you are adding on to a building or making substantial alterations, you will most likely need an architect to draw up plans. However, you do not need anyone in order to stop by the Development Services Wing and ask questions.

Zoning is the means by which local governments regulate the types of uses that are conducted on land within their jurisdictions. For example, businesses are not normally permitted to operate on property zoned for residential purposes. Similarly, certain types of businesses may only be permitted on properties zoned specifically for those purposes.

The City of Delray Beach has numerous commercial and industrial zoning districts which are quite specific as to the type and intensity of businesses allowed. To find out the zoning classification of your prospective location call or visit the Development Services Wing in City Hall. There is a large zoning map on public display in the lobby. A Planner at the front counter can assist you in determining the zoning classification, and can inform you of applicable restrictions on the use, if any. If you have not yet chosen a location for your business, a Planner can help you to determine which areas of the City are zoned for your particular use.

It is important to ensure that the location you select for your business is properly zoned for the use. To avoid unnecessary hassles and expense, check with the Planning and Zoning Department at 243-7040 before you commit to a location.

The Fire Marshal makes random inspections for fire code compliance. To find out if you will have to provide new fire suppression equipment, call the Fire Marshal at 243-7425 for a courtesy inspection prior to signing your lease.

Construction work and delivery of construction materials and supplies are allowed on Monday through Friday, from 7 am to 6 pm, and on Saturday, from 8 am to 4 pm. Construction and deliveries are prohibited on Sundays and on News Years Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.

Our Commitment to Our Citizens

As a professional public service organization, we are dedicated to preserving the integrity of our department and its members as we go about the business of law enforcement, which expands from community-based policing and crime prevention to crime control. The integrity of our agency depends on the personal integrity and discipline of each employee/ member. The complaint process is an integral part of maintaining that integrity and discipline and is a direct reflection of our continuing commitment to excellence. Should you need to make a complaint, be assured your concerns will be treated with respect and professionalism.

The Delray Beach Police Department, in accordance with its rules, policies and procedures, will investigate all complaints made against the department or its employees.

Complaints should be legitimate in nature, and if proven false, employees have the right to sue for punitive/slanderous damages stemming from false allegations.

Citizen Complaints

• Addresses any concern or complaint voiced towards a member or an activity of the department.
• Informal complaints can be anonymous.

The Complaint Process

• All complaints will be directed to the shift commander or a supervisor on duty.
• The supervisor will meet in person (if possible) with the complainant(s) and ascertain the nature of the complaint.
• If the complaint cannot be resolved, the supervisor will obtain a statement of complaint (if complainant is willing).
• The supervisor will generate an Initial Notice of Inquiry and provide the complainant with a copy of the letter titled Important Information Concerning the Citizen Complaint Filing.

Types of Complaints

Internal Affairs

• Investigations involving serious breeches of conduct.
• Usually requires a sworn statement or affidavit from the complainant.

Supervisory Review

• Usually relates to minor misconduct.
• Often investigated by the affected employee's supervisor.

The Purposes for Internal Investigations

• Protect the public
• Protect the department
• Protect the employee
• Identify and remove personnel who are unfit to serve our citizens
• Identify and correct procedural problems

Investigative Conclusion

The Chief of Police will review the investigation and determine which category describes the findings:

Investigative Findings

Sustained - Allegations supported by sufficient evidence to justify a reasonable conclusion that the action(s) occurred and were violations.

Not Sustained - Insufficient evidence available to prove or dispute allegations. The allegation(s) appeared to have merit, however, there was insufficient evidence to either prove or disprove the allegation(s).

Exonerated - Alleged action(s) occurred but were justified, lawful, and proper. Employee acted in compliance with departmental rules and regulations and/or policy and procedures.

Unfounded - Allegation(s) are false, did not occur, or not supported by facts. The allegation(s) was without merit and did not occur.

The complainant will be notified and informed of the investigative results, upon approval by the Chief of Police.

Police Reports may be picked up at Police Department headquarters (300 W. Atlantic Ave.) after three business days.

There is a fee of fifteen cents per page for single-sided reports or twenty cents for double-sided reports, and an additional $1.00 for a certified report.

The Police Department responds to calls on a priority basis.

• Priority One are calls to a crime in progress, such as a burglary in progress or a robbery in progress, or when a human life is in immediate danger.
• Priority Two are calls to a scene where a human life is not in immediate danger but the situation may escalate, such as calls to a business/residential alarm or a verbal altercation when both parties are on the scene.
• Priority Three are calls to a situation that may be civil in nature or, if criminal, is not currently in progress. These calls include barking dogs, fraud, and abandoned vehicles.

When you have been issued a citation for faulty equipment, and once your vehicle has been repaired, you must bring the vehicle for a follow up inspection by a Police Officer at Police Department headquarters (300 W. Atlantic Ave.). The Officer will sign the citation, verifying that the fault has been corrected.

After the inspection a fee of $4.00 must be paid to the Delray Beach Police Department. This fee can be paid at the front desk in the Police Department's lobby. After paying this inspection fee, you must pay a fee at the South County Court House (200 W. Atlantic Ave. Delray Beach -- one block east of Police headquarters). The fee will be $96.00 if the equipment is in order or $116.00 if it is not. Along with the citation, you must present the receipt for the $4.00 inspection fee paid to the Delray Beach Police Department; otherwise you will be charged that $4.00 fee at the courthouse.

Water restrictions for Palm Beach County frequently change. For further information, please visit the South Florida Water Management District.

If the vehicle is on private property the vehicle must be towed at the expense of the owner of the property. The Police Department cannot tow vehicles on private property unless the vehicle is stolen or part of a criminal investigation.

In response to the concerns of the community in the annual Town Hall Meetings, the Delray Beach Police Department has directed your officers to address the growing traffic concerns throughout the community.

The primary concerns of the Citizens of Delray Beach are:

• Speed (excessive)
• Aggressive driving
• Red light/stop sign running
• Road rage

The Police Department aggressively patrols and strictly enforces the traffic laws within the City of Delray Beach.

If you are stopped by the police while driving, you may feel confused, anxious, or even angry. These are natural feelings, but remember, traffic stops can also be stressful and dangerous for the police officer. Each year, a number of law enforcement officers are killed or seriously injured while making the "routine" traffic stop. Police officers are especially vulnerable during the hours of darkness.

With this in mind, there are things that you, as a law abiding citizen, can do to help lessen the unpleasantness of the experience.

Questions - Compliments - Complaints

If you have a question about procedures or a complaint about your treatment, contact the Department and ask to speak with a supervisor. You may also send a complimentary letter if you feel the officer was particularly helpful in your situation.

There are many different reasons why you might be stopped by the police. Whatever the reason, the officer needs your cooperation.

Remember: In all cases, a citizen is required to cooperate with police.

1. A police officer may pull you over at any time for a traffic offense or police investigation.
2. When you see the overhead lights and/or hear the siren, remain calm and safely pull over parallel to the right side of the road.
3. Remain in your vehicle unless the officer advises otherwise.
4. Keep your hands on the steering wheel so the officer can see them.
5. Avoid any sudden movements, especially toward the floorboard, rear seat, or passenger side of the vehicle.
6. Do not immediately reach for your license or other documents until the officer requests them. Florida Law requires drivers to show their license, registration, and insurance card upon request.
7. If your documents are out of reach, tell the officer where they are before you reach for them.
8. If the stop occurs during darkness, put on your dome or interior lights so the officer can easily see that all is in order.
9. If there are passengers in your vehicle, encourage them to remain quiet and cooperate with instructions. You, as the operator, are solely responsible for your vehicle and its occupants.
10. The officer may issue you a ticket. Avoid becoming argumentative. Arguing will not change the officer's mind. If you contest the violation, you will have an opportunity to address the matter in court.
11. Be honest with the officer. If you really didn't see the stop sign, or were unaware of the speed limit, let the officer know. Being honest about any situation never hurts.
12. The Delray Beach Police Department generally uses one officer patrol cars, however, it would be normal to see two or three other police officers on a routine traffic stop.
13. Finally, if you receive a ticket, accept it calmly. Signing the citation is not an admission of guilt.

Biased policing is the inappropriate consideration of specified characteristics while enforcing the law or providing police services. Specified characteristics includes, but is not limited to, race, ethnic background, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, socioeconomic status, age, disability, political status, or any other legally protected characteristics.

The Delray Beach Police Department provides a fingerprinting service on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm. There is a $10 fee for this service and you must provide your own fingerprint card. A $5 fee is charged for each additional card.

You may pay the fine or dispute it at the following address.

South County Court House
200 W. Atlantic Ave.
Delray Beach, FL 33444
Phone: (561) 274-1400

Restraining orders must be obtained through the following address.

South County Court House
200 W. Atlantic Ave.
Delray Beach, FL 33444
Phone: (561) 274-1400

Yes, Mandatory Conservation restrictions are in effect until further notice. See South Florida Water Management District for details. Year round landscape irrigation limits are part of the area water conservation program.

Yes, they can receive multiple tickets. However, they cannot receive duplicate citations (same date+ same space + same violation).

An annual beach parking permit can be purchased at Park Delray Beach parking office at 95 NE 1st Ave, Delray Beach or online at tocite.net/oneparkingdelraybeach. The annual permit fee is $96.30.

Senior citizens 70 and older, an annual parking permit can be purchased at Park Delray Beach parking office at 95 NE 1st Ave, Delray Beach. The annual permit fee for seniors is $101.65.

The beach parking permits are valid for one year starting on October 1. The permit is not valid in the Gleason Street parking lot.

Contact the City Engineer at (561) 243-6220 for more information.

Yes, the City aims to allow all visitors and residents the opportunity to enjoy Downtown Delray Beach's unique mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops by enforcing time limits to turn over parking spots. For customers who wish to park for more than 3 hours, there are a variety of parking options including the public parking garages, beachside public parking lots and the free public parking lots. Click the link for a list of parking locations in Downtown Delray Beach.

Payment Options:

1. In office: Cash, check, money order only (no credit cards) at 95 NE 1st Ave. Delray Beach FL. 33444
2. Online with a credit or debit card to https://delray.rmcpay.com/
3. (Preferred) By Mail, please make check or money order out to the City of Delray Beach and Mail to PO Box 6787, Delray Beach, FL 33482 3. Leave check or money order in the drop box located at 95 NE 1st Delray Beach, FL 33444

To ensure proper credit, include citation number on check or money order. Do not send cash in the mail. For more information, please visit: https://delray.rmcpay.com/ or call 561-265-2100.

Contest Citation: You may appeal this citation online at https://delray.rmcpay.com/ within 14 days of issuance.

Parkmobile is a pay-by-phone/app service that provides customers the convenience of paying for parking using their cell phone. Here's more information on Parkmobile.

Any fees which remain unpaid for 90 days shall be referred to a registered collection agency, which will pursue the collection of said fines in an amount not to exceed 40% of the amount owed due to the City of Delray Beach, FL Ordinance Sec. 71.999.

An additional twenty-five dollars ($25.00) civil penalty shall be imposed unless the amount designated on the complaint and parking ticket is paid within fourteen (14) calendar days from the date the complaint and parking ticket was affixed to that motor vehicle.

The fee is a $35 fine.

On the Staff Contact Page.

You'll find information on parking on the Parking Page.

You'll find trolley information on the Trolley Page.

• Online: tocite.net/oneparkingdelraybeach
  
• Mail: Check or money order payable to:

City of Delray Beach
PO Box 6787
Delray Beach, FL 33482

• In Office: Check, money order, or cash

95 NE 1st Avenue
Delray Beach, FL 33444

(561) 265-2100

Remember:

• Include the citation number on the check or money order.
• Pay within 14 days of receiving a citation to prevent additional fees.
• Do not mail in cash. Only checks or money orders are accepted.

Please contact Elsa Gonzales-Soto in Public Works at (561) 243-7ooo extension 722o.

Contact the Streets/Traffic division at (561) 243-7338.

Please contact the Streets/Traffic Division of Public Works at (561) 243-7338.

To report street light outages to FPL, please call (800) 375-2434. Please note that it is most helpful to have the pole number when reporting these lights.

All traffic Signals are owned and operated by Palm Beach County Traffic Operations. Please contact Palm Beach County Traffic Operations at (561) 233-3950.

For road closure permits only contact streets and traffic at (561) 243-7338. For information on road closures visit the road closures page.

Please send a written request to the City Engineer at the following address:

City Engineer
City of Delray Beach
434 S. Swinton Avenue
Delray Beach, FL 33444

South Palm Beach County residents can drop off , at no cost, their non-alkaline batteries and household hazardous waste at SWA for free. Battery types are: automotive batteries, button batteries, Ni-Cad batteries and lithium batteries. Drop-off locations are: South County Transfer Station, 1901 SW 4th Ave, Delray Beach and South West County Transfer Station and 13400 S State Road 7 in Delray Beach.

• SWA website

City curbside roll-out garbage carts are furnished to all City customers. Recycling bins must be obtained from the Solid Waste Authority (SWA) at 561/697-2700.

Please call 243-7210 or 243-7243 to arrange for delivery of a City roll-out garbage cart or if your cart is damaged or stolen.

A NOI (Notice of Intent) form must be filled out and sent to the FDEP (Florida Department of Environmental Protection) two days prior to construction. Authorization is granted 48 hours after NOI postmark. As additional site operators are identified, they must submit a NOI. The NOI assigned number (or assigned NPDES permit) must be kept visibly on site at all times throughout the project.

You can now apply online for Interactive Notice of Intent. iNOI is a web-based application that allows you to complete, edit and submit NOIs, CGP and NOTs online. You can also pay certain NPDES Stormwater permit fees online.

If you prefer, you can submit a completed NOI manually to:

NPDES Stormwater Notices Center, MS#2510
Florida Department of Environmental Protection
2600 Blair Stone Road
Tallahassee, FL 32399-2400

A SWPPP (Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan) is created by the person in charge, such as contractor or owner, and kept on site at all times throughout the project. Each new contractor or subcontractor who joins the project must sign a certification statement, and add it to the SWPPP. The General Permit contains information on creating a SWPPP. The person in charge of the project must inspect the site for BMPs (Best Management Practices) every week or after every 1/2" rain event. This must be documented and available upon request. A SWPPP Inspection and Maintenance Report Form is found in the City's Construction Standards or downloaded from the Palm Beach County NPDES Program web site. A form for the SWPPP for Stormwater Discharges Associated with Small Construction Activities - One to Five Acres may be found here Pollution Prevention Plan, or downloaded from the Palm Beach County NPDES Program website.

A NOT (Notice of Termination) form must be filled out and sent to the FDEP upon completion of the project. The NOI, NOT, General Permit for Construction Activities and other relevant information may be downloaded from the Palm Beach County NPDES Program website.

Almost all governments using assessments calculate by land areas and/or impervious areas and there is a set amount for an Equal Residential Unit (ERU). When the City's non-ad Valorem assessment was created in 1990, 2,502 square feet was considered the average size of a Single Family Residence (SFR) in the City. Currently, the amount for one ERU is $63.96 for 2,502 square feet. Delray Beach has five formulas for assessment calculations:

PDF Version

Common elements within a platted subdivision will not be assessed to the subdivision associations. However, the assessment amount of the common elements will be pro-rated among the parcels within the subdivision.

If the assessed property lies within the Lake Worth Drainage District, it receives a 25% discount. If the property has a privately maintained stormwater system, approved by the City Engineer, it receives a 25% discount. This means a property may receive up to a 50% discount off its annual assessment.

When will I Receive My Assessment?

The Palm Beach County Property Appraiser will mail residents a notice of proposed property taxes in mid-August, called the TRIM (Truth In Millage) Notice. On November 1st, the County Tax Roll is open for collections. Non-ad valorem assessments are not based on millage and will appear on the bottom of the Notice of Ad valorem and Non-ad valorem Assessments.

SAM stands for Stormwater And Me, and he is here to help us to understand where the "me" comes in to stop personal pollution of our waters. There are so many simple, everyday things we can do to stop personal pollution: we can recycle, we can wash our cars away from stormwater inlets, we can fertilize our lawns on days we don't expect rain and we can stop blowing landscape debris into the streets, to name a few. To find out more about what the "me" in "Stormwater And Me" means to each of us, go to Sam's website:

Related Links

• The Florida Department of Environmental Protection
• The Florida Stormwater Association
• The Florida Water and Pollution Control Operator's Association
• Florida Yards and Neighborhoods
• Palm Beach County NPDES Program
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
• South Florida Water Management District

Why Assessments?

The Federal government requires compliance with the NPDES stormwater permit program. This means funding for maintenance, repair, and construction of stormwater systems. Previously, the financial source was the City's general fund, which meant the stormwater program would compete with more popular programs such as fire and police. Stormwater was a low priority, except when it rained!

Today, removing stormwater from our streets is only part of the issue. Stormwater is polluting the country's water bodies, and the Federal government is requiring each local governing entity be involved with the cleanup. Non-ad valorem assessments allow separate funding dedicated to the stormwater program. An example is the City's swale construction project as it is an important means of not only removing storm runoff but also allowing the runoff to filter through the grass to recharge our water supply.

Is It Fair?

All government entities do a great deal of research and communicate with each other in their goal to make assessments fair to all residents, and to comply with Federal and State laws. Stormwater assessments and utilities are relatively new, and there have been many changes over the years for most municipalities. There may be more changes in the future in response to new and better technologies.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), stormwater from urban runoff and storm sewers is the second leading source of water quality impairment for lakes and estuaries and the third for rivers. Dedicated funding, whether assessments or utilities, is extremely important to enable local governments to clean up our water supplies.

In order for us to understand how we can help the environment, we must first understand what Pointless Personal Pollution is and how it affects us in our daily lives.

Pointless Personal Pollution:

Stormwater pollution is categorized into two groups: point source and non-point source. Point source pollution comes from industrial businesses and sewage treatment facilities and is monitored by government permit. Non-point source pollution is contributed by homes, businesses, and farms. Non-point source pollution is important to us since we are the cause, and we can stop it! Pointless Personal Pollution is caused by many of our day-to-day activities and is washed into the state's waters by irrigation and rain runoff. Some examples of these pollutants are:

• Soil erosion caused by a lack of ground cover.
• Uncontrolled construction activities.
• Automotive and lawn equipment oil leaks, degreasers, and improper disposal of used oils other products into storm drains.
• Litter.
• Yard trash especially piled onto or placed near a storm inlet.
• Grass clippings are blown into the street.
• Garbage not cleaned up around dumpsters and garbage cans.
• Pet and livestock wastes.
• Sewer and septic overflow.

Pointless Personal Pollution Affect Us in Many Ways:

Nutrients from septic tanks, fertilizers and animal wastes cause excessive growth of algae and aquatic weeds. Many of our boaters are dismayed at finding these weeds tangled in their propellers! Sewage, litter, and garbage reduce oxygen levels in the water, killing aquatic life. Sediments from soil erosion clog fish gills and shellfish filtering systems, suffocating them. Pesticides and heavy metals contaminate water body sediments and kill aquatic life. Pathogens from animal waste and septic tanks contaminate shellfish and lead to the closing of swimming areas. How do we go about improving our waters individually?

Easy, Important Ways to Help Us Reduce Pointless Personal Pollution:

• We can start by shopping wisely. Buy products that are labeled non-toxic, biodegradable, non-phosphorus, or water soluble.
• Store products safely by keeping toxic products in their original containers and keep them in safe places that cannot be accessed by children or pets.
• Properly maintain septic systems by annual inspections, pump out as needed and avoid disposing of caustic cleaners, chemicals or solvents, as they destroy beneficial bacteria and clog absorption fields.
• Do not place yard clippings, branches or other debris on top of the storm drain. Grass clippings left on the grass make excellent mulch while blowing clippings into the street add to the pollution of the lakes and canals.
• Service vehicles and lawn equipment regularly, and dispose of used oils and antifreeze at the local service station.
• Find your roof drains and route the water away from your driveway towards a grassy part of your yard.
• Fertilize with a low nitrogen mix, and don't apply it before the rains - most of it will run off, and the benefit to your lawn will be lost. Spray pesticides infrequently, using an eco-friendly substitute.
• Wash your car in the grass, not in your driveway. Soap will act as a safe pesticide for your lawn, but not safe for your canal or lake.
• Never pour anything down an inlet, no matter how harmless it may seem to you. These systems are intended for rainwater only!

These simple steps will go a long way to help keep our canals, lakes, and groundwater clean.  For more information refer to the Florida Yards and Neighborhoods website provided by the University of Florida Extension.

Citizen Reporting of Hazardous Spills and Illicit Dumping:

Unfortunately, there are occasions where there are accidents with hazardous materials or intentional dumping of toxic wastes. Sometimes the incident may be as simple someone dumping an unknown (or known) waste product into an inlet. All of these situations must be dealt with swiftly, and as citizens of Delray Beach, we must get involved to keep our area beautiful and prevent pollution of our waters. If you see something suspicious or witness such an accident, there are simple steps to take and phone numbers available.

The Delray Beach Fire Department has highly trained Hazmat personnel equipped to suit up, analyze substances, contain and clean up hazardous spills and releases. If you witness such a spill or release, call 911 immediately and give an address and description of what happened. If you see someone pour an unknown substance down an inlet, or if you see or smell an unknown substance in an inlet, call the Fire Department immediately (911) and give the dispatcher a description of the scene and an address. The Fire Department will determine further steps needed for containment and clean up. Never try to get samples of the substance yourself, leave that task to the professionals!

If you see someone pouring a substance into an inlet, and you know what the substance is, such as dirt, debris, concrete, motor oil or paint, call the Code Enforcement Department (561) 243-7210 or (561) 243-7243 immediately and give a detailed description of the scene with the closest address to the inlet.

Print and Place the Following Table Near Your Phone or Tape Onto Your Refrigerator:

PDF Version

EPA's Explorers' Club for Kids!

Go to the EPA's website for kids! There are many great sites such as the "Students' Site", "Teachers' Site", "Ask EPA" and more. Other topics include "Plants & Animals", "You and Your Environment", "Water", "Games", "Science Room", "Art Room" "Garbage & Recycling" and much, much more. There are downloadable coloring books, interactive pages, competitions, contests and a place to display your artwork. Check it out for learning about your environment while having fun. Even more information and fun may be found at EPA's Water for Kids!

Construction within a MS4

A MS4 means a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System and relates to any stormwater conveyance system that discharges into State or Federal waters. Our NPDES permit requires that if small construction activities of one to five acres, and development or redevelopment of five or more acres within a MS4, then certain steps are taken to ensure that the construction does not pollute our waters. The City has its own requirements written in the Land Development Regulations, for construction along the Intracoastal Waterway.

How It Began

Section 402(p) of the 1987 Federal Clean Water Act required the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) stormwater permit program. This program requires local governments to obtain permits for their existing stormwater drainage systems, and for stormwater from certain industrial activities. This includes all construction projects that will disturb one or more acres of land, government-owned landfills, power plants, airports, vehicle maintenance facilities and wastewater treatment plants.

How This Effects the City of Delray Beach

The NPDES regulations are directed at local governments, which are liable, for the pollutants discharged from their stormwater systems into the waters of the United States. Delray Beach is one of 40 co-permittees in Palm Beach County responsible for developing a long-term, comprehensive stormwater program to reduce the pollutant loading from their systems caused by non-point sources. Non-point sources are polluting sources other than direct discharges from factories and industries. Automotive oil and grease, herbicides and pesticides used in lawn maintenance, and runoff from City streets are a few examples of non-point sources of pollution.

The City has already developed an inventory of its stormwater management system. Currently, infrastructure deficiencies are being identified and appropriate repairs completed.

Best Management Practices (BMPs)

The state Stormwater Rule, Chapter 17-25 Florida Administrative Code, was implemented by the Department of Environmental Regulation in 1982. The rule requires the use of BMPs to treat the first flush of stormwater to remove 80% of the annual average pollutant load. A good example of a BMP is the construction of swales.

Stormwater is rainwater that washes through our property and streets, taking with it any debris that may be in its path. This mixture of rain, debris, oil, and waste is known as "runoff." In the past municipalities, as well as other public and private agencies, worked to get stormwater off the roads as quickly as possible to avoid flooding. Today these same agencies are working to not only reduce and often eliminate flooding but to prevent pollution by the elements picked up by runoff.

When you pass a storm inlet, do you know where the water goes? Do you think it is channeled to a treatment plant the way sewage is? Think again! Up north, there may still be some existing combined sewer systems, where both sewage and stormwater are channeled to the local sewage treatment plant. Here in Florida, we do not have combined systems. In fact, in most areas of the Country inflow and infiltration (I/I) studies are done to find groundwater and rainwater leaks in sanitary sewer systems and repair any damage. Sewage treatment costs money, and treating large amounts of added stormwater would be very expensive. South Florida is surrounded by water bodies such as the Intracoastal Waterway, finger canals, lakes and the Atlantic Ocean, and that is exactly where most stormwater runoff goes.

The next time you pass an inlet, remember that it most likely discharges into a body of water that may be near where you live, swim or fish! Do not add to the pollution problem by pouring anything down the storm drain, and remember that the drain is for stormwater only!

Learn more about stormwater, and support your stormwater assessment program. This program is working for all of us and will enable our future generations to enjoy cleaner water. This webpage will help to explain more about NPDES, BMPs, assessments, construction, and what you can do to help.

Swales and Stormwater Runoff

In the past, the plan for rainwater was to get it off the streets and into nearby canals as quickly as possible. When it rains, the water runs off paved surfaces and takes with it the oils, greases, animal wastes and debris, and deposits it in our canals, rivers, and lakes. Today we know that stormwater runoff is a primary source of water pollution. In fact, Federal and State legislation have been enacted requiring cities throughout the country to develop comprehensive stormwater management programs.

Swales are generally defined as the strip of land in front of your homes and adjacent to the street. Although you may never have stopped to think about it before, swales are important to the protection of our environment and the appearance of our neighborhoods. Swales are an important tool used to slow down the water runoff and allowing it to pool in the grassy areas. The water is then filtered by the grass and percolates into the ground recharging our water supply. Swales also help to reduce erosion and can be used in other sensitive areas of the yard or commercial property.


^{Landscaping behind the swale is beautiful and effective.}

Working Together

The City realizes that you may need to make certain changes to your swale. We would like you to follow current City guidelines that will protect our environment and your neighborhood:

• Paving: If you need to pave your swale for driveway access, pave only the section you need and leave the rest of the swale in its natural state. Remember that paving requires a City permit since pavement is considered to be a permanent structure.
• Plantings: Landscaping your front swale may be pleasing to the eye, but it does disrupt the natural drainage features of your neighborhood. Installing your plantings behind your property line, away from the road, adds beauty to your home and leaves the swale intact.
• Parking: Avoid continual parking of vehicles on your swale to allow healthy grass to develop and keep the soil loose so water can percolate into the ground.
• Driveways: Make sure your driveway's design allows water to drain toward your swale.
• Debris: Keep your swale free of leaves, limbs, and other vegetation. Properly dispose of debris and oil rather than placing them in your swale.

Remember

• Runoff should temporarily pond in the swale for 24 to 36 hours; mosquitoes won't breed until water ponds for at least 72 hours.
• Keep healthy, aerated grass growth.
• Minimize the use of fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides.
• Do not pave the swales as this reduces percolation of runoff.
• Do not park vehicles in the swale as this compacts the soil and reduces percolation.

^{Driveways should be designed to channel rainwater into swales.}

Cleaner Water

By following these few simple steps, the City will be working towards cleaner water for all of us while recharging our system.