FAQs

When do I need to get a permit from Engineering?

  • Anytime you will be excavating inside the street right of way (see next question) or if you are closing a lane of traffic.
  • Anytime you will be connecting to a water, sewer or storm drain line.
  • Anytime you will be building a drive approach, sidewalk, or curb.

Where is the street right of way?

  • The street right of way includes all paved surface plus the curb and gutter plus some distance behind the curb. The width of right of way behind the curb varies. You can view approximate right of way location on the Public Waco Map.

How do I need to get a permit from Engineering

I need a copy of a map showing the location of the existing underground storm drains, sanitary sewers, water lines. Where can I get this?

  • You may be able to find the information you need using the Public Waco Map. Many record drawings can be viewed on line using the map identify tool. This tool is accessed by clicking on the “i” near the top right hand corner of the map screen.
  • By contacting Engineering Services at (254) 750-5440. The fees are as follows:
    • Computer Generated Maps
      • Base $85.80 per hour
      • After 1 hour $80.30 per hour
      • Plotted Map 0.55 per sq. ft.
    • Fee for large Xerox (24"x36") copies $3.63 per page
    • Data Transfer Fee Base $85.80 base rate
      • After 1 hour $80.30 per hour

What are the fire hydrant test procedures?

  • Charge for Fire Flow Tests: There is no fee for obtaining existing fire hydrant flow information. To request this data, simply email the design team with the address of the desired location, and any available reports will be emailed to you at no cost. If no reports are available or the existing ones are outdated, you may opt for a new test. The cost for conducting a new fire hydrant flow test is $120 per test. The test will be scheduled upon receipt of payment.
  • Payment of Invoice: Payments can be made by credit card, check or cash. Credit card payments are accepted online through the Customer Self Service portal (CSS). Please register for an account before requesting services. Once you have registered your account, contact the Engineering Department with your account information to have an invoice generated. It will appear on your CSS dashboard under “My Invoices.” Simply add the invoice to your cart and provide your payment information to complete the transaction. If you have any problems or any questions setting up your account, please feel free to contact Doris at 254-750-5440 for assistance. Alternatively, you may also pay by credit card, check or cash in person at 401 Franklin Ave, Waco TX. The City accepts MasterCard, Visa, or Discover. The City does NOT accept American Express.
  • After Payment is Received: Once the customer has paid for the test, the Engineering Design Technician will coordinate with the City of Waco Utilities Department to submit a work order. The Engineering Design Technician will reach out to the customer to confirm whether they would like to be present during the test or if they prefer to have the results emailed. The test typically involves two hydrants at the site: the farthest hydrant is flowed, while the closest one is used for static pressure. However, you may specify your preference.

For any backflow prevention information contact: GregoryM@wacotx.gov (254) 750-8077

I am interested in developing land in Waco? What information is available to help me get started?

When will my street be repaved?

  • All streets are evaluated each year for maintenance requirements. The Better Streets Waco site will show any work recommended or scheduled for your street.

What is not permitted with a building permit?

  • Curb and gutter, sidewalk and drive approaches are not included in a building permit. These items require a separate permit issued through the Engineering Department.

Why is the City surveying near my property?

  • Various other agencies and companies may be performing surveying activities. City of Waco employees will be driving City of Waco trucks with Engineering markings. If the survey crew is in this type of vehicle, you may contact the Engineering Services department at (254) 750-5440 for information.

Why are surveyors digging in my yard?

  • The City right of way generally extends some distance behind the curb, so part of your yard is probably in City right of way. In the process of performing a survey, monuments that mark the property and the right-of way must be found and measured. These monuments are usually iron rods or pipes that can be buried in the ground up to one foot or more in depth.

How do I access information regarding the City’s survey benchmarks?

  • See the Public Waco Map. Only recently revised benchmarks are shown on this map. Additional older benchmarks may be available; contact the Engineering Services department at (254) 750-5440 for more information.

How do I access information regarding floodplains and drainage within the City of Waco?

How do I report problems with traffic lights, traffic signs?

How do I report problems with potholes or other problems with the streets or drainage system?

How do I report problems with the sanitary sewer system or with the water distribution system?

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