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Candidate Questions

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1. What are the requirements to be a candidate for election?

Candidates must be registered to vote, must have been full-time residents of the city for at least one year prior to qualifying, and must not hold any other elective office.

2. When may I begin raising campaign funds?

A potential candidate may begin raising funds at any time after filing designation of a campaign treasurer and bank designation with the City Clerk. The campaign account must be separate from any personal accounts and used only for depositing campaign funds and making campaign expenditures.

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City Attorney

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1. Do I need an attorney to deal with the Office of the City Attorney?

Whether to employ an attorney is entirely up to you. The attorneys for the City of Tuscaloosa will gladly speak to citizens who are not represented by a lawyer. If you are represented by an attorney on the issue in question, the Rules of Professional Conduct of the Alabama State Bar generally require city attorneys to speak to only your lawyer about the matter unless your lawyer consents to your speaking directly with the City’s lawyer. Although City Attorneys always seek to treat everyone professionally and fairly, please keep in mind that they represent the legal interests of the City, not of individual citizens.

2. How do I find an attorney to represent me?

The City of Tuscaloosa and the Office of the City Attorney are prohibited by law from representing you or your interests. We also cannot recommend attorneys to you.

If you need an attorney you may find these resources useful:

Alabama State Bar Lawyers Referral Service. Call (800) 392-5660 or click here http://www.alabar.org/ and look for the Lawyers Referral Service link. This service by the state bar association will give you the name and contact information of attorneys in your area that handle the kind of legal problem you have.
Legal Services of Alabama is a statewide non-profit organization providing free civil legal assistance to low-income and elderly Alabamians. Call 205-758-7503 or click here http://www.alabamalegalservices.org/
The University of Alabama School of Law Clinical Program has several specialized clinical programs that may or may not be able to assist you. Call (205) 348-4960 if you think you might qualify.
Most attorneys advertise in the telephone book yellow pages. Look under “Attorneys.”

3. How do I file a claim against the City of Tuscaloosa?

Use the Claim Form at this link. Claim Form

4. Why was my claim against the City of Tuscaloosa denied?

For an explaination of common reasons claims are denied and what some of your options are if that happens, use the following link. Claim Denial Info

5. How do I get copies of public records?

Many City of Tuscaloosa records are available online, however, if the record you need is not available online or you simply cannot find it, then you should file a public records request using this link

6. Where do I pay a traffic ticket?

Traffic tickets are paid at Municipal Court. Additonal information on traffic tickets is available at this link.

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Environmental Services

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1. What is acceptable in my garbage cart?

Putrescible animal and vegetable waste resulting from the handling, preparation, cooking, and consumption of food, including waste from markets, storage facilities, handling and the sale of produce products, and in general from food for human consumption, and non-putrescrible waste matter, such as glass, plastic, paper, cartons, boxes, and cardboard.

2. What is unacceptable in my garbage cart?

We cannot collect containers that are overloaded due to unacceptable materials. These include automotive parts, bricks, concrete, and other construction items. Also we cannot accept household sewage, livestock, or poultry waste, hazardous waste, unprotected medical waste, dead animals, ashes, trash, street or highway cleanings, or industrial waste.

3. How can I get a garbage cart?

The City of Tuscalosoa impolemented a new Garbage Cart program in October of 2007. Click for Information...

4. What if my cart breaks or is already broken?

If your garbage cart needs repair please call Tuscaloosa 311 and place a Service Request Order (SRO). A Cart Repair Crew will be out to repair your cart if possible. In order to be repaired, carts should be left at the curb and contain no garbage. While waiting for repairs, your garbage may be placed in bags and put out next to the cart for collection. If your cart is NON-REPAIRABLE, your cart will be replaced at no-cost if certain conditions are met. Cart repairs can take up to 30 days to complete, though most orders are handles within two weeks. To find out more information about the City’s cart program click HERE ...

5. When do I set my cart out for collection?

To find out your collection day call Tuscaloosa 311 or contact the Environmental Services Department at (205) 248-4900. Then place your cart out for collection no later than 7 A.M. on your pick up day and remove it from curbside or city right-of-way no later than 8 A.M. the next day.

6. Does the City have a handicap service?

For our customers who are physically unable to roll a garbage cart or carry the recycling bin to the curb, we provide both garbage and recycling pick up at the back door at no extra charge. This service is not provided when other physically able adults are in the home. For more information call our office at (205) 248-4900.

7. What is Considered Trash?

All tree and lawn trimmings, leaves, pine straw, trash that has been burned, rocks, bricks, and demolition type waste, generated by family units. Construction waste, demolition waste or trees that are generated by a contractor , or someone other than the occupant of the premises, will not be collected by the city and it will be the generator’s responsibility to remove such debris.

8. What is Unacceptable for Trash Collection?

Paper, cartons, cardboard, refuse, garbage, litter, rubbish, sludge, liquids, toxic or hazardous waste will not be accepted for trash collection.

9. How do I find out when my trash is collected?

Trash and Garbage on collected on the same day. You may use the searchable map located at www.tuscaloosa.com/esd to find your collection day. You may also call Tuscaloosa 311 or contact the Environmental Services Department at (205) 248-4900 for the trash pickup schedule. Please be aware that trash service often runs behind during the fall months due to the excessive amount of leaves to collect and in the spring due to new growth. In these situations, please leave your trash at the curb and it will be collected as soon as we get back into your area.

10. What is the price for trash collection?

Trash collection is a free service available to residents with an active water account. Business customers are not entitled to trash collection.

11. What is the cost for garbage collection?

See rates & fees Click here...

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Finance

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1. What are Finance's hours of operation?

7:00 am to 5 pm

2. How do I find out about bidding opportunities?

You can get on the bid list by clicking on the Bidding Registration Form feature on the Finance page. Print the form out and fill out as instructed on the form. Fax back to the number provided on the form. If you do not have a fax machine, you can mail it to the purchasing department. You will be notified of any pertinent opportunites.

3. Is there a charge to be placed on the bid list?

There is no charge to be placed on the bid list.

4. Why do I need a bid bond?

The Albama Competitive Bid Laws require a bid bond in the amount of 5% for any contract valued greater than $10,000. Acceptable formats are addressed in the Special Conditions of the bid document.

5. How can I bid on City surplus items?

The City of Tuscaloosa has an auction twice a year to dispose of surplus property. Look for these opportunities advertised in the paper listing date and location or call (205)349-0498 to inquire about information.

6. What does the City of Tuscaloosa do to collect on a returned check?

When the check is returned to the City, it is sent to Certegy for collection. If cerrtegy is unable to collect on the check within 60 days, they return the check to the City. A certified letter is then issued and if the check is not collected on within 10 days, it is sent to the Worhtless Check Unit and a warrant is issued.

7. When are accounts payable checks processed and mailed?

Checks are processed and mailed every Monday after 2:30.

8. When is the deadline for turning in an invoice to get a check processed for the same week?

The invoice must reach the Finance Department with signed approval from the appropriate department before 2:30 pm on Wednesday to receive a check for that week.

9. Can I pick up my check from the Finance Department?

All checks are mailed through the U.S. Postal Service.

10. What is the City of Tuscaloosa's investment policy for municipal funds?

The City currently solicits bids on a weekly basis for certificates of deposit from local financial institutions that participate in Alabama's Safe program. The institution quoting the highest interest rate will be awarded the investment. In the case where more than institutuion quotes the same rate the investment will be given to the financial institution that is holding the lowest number of investments.

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Fire Department

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1. Where are Tuscaloosa's Fire Stations located?

#1 1501 Greensboro Avenue
#2 322 Paul W. Bryant Drive
#3 202 Rice Valley Road NE
#4 2113 University Boulevard E
#5 1501 Greensboro Avenue
#6 3029 Loop Road
#7 105 Skyland Boulevard
#8 2200 Culver Road
#9 3924 Woodland Forrest Drive
#10 8101 New Watermelon Road
#11 10293 Covered Bridge Road
#12 Tuscaloosa Municipal Airport

2. In an emergency, should I call 911 or can I call my nearest fire station directly?

The 911 system is designed to save you valuable seconds because the system routes calls to the fire or police units that are closest to your home. Fire stations are not equipped to take such calls and doing so would actually reduce response time. It is also possible that no firefighters would be at the station due to being on a call, whereas 911 calls will always be answered.

3. How often should I change the batteries in my smoke detectors?

You should replace the batteries in your smoke detectors twice a year. A good way to remember is to do this when you change your clocks for the time change in spring and fall.

4. What should a driver do when an emergency vehicle approaches?

Safely pull to the right and stop until the emergency vehicle has passed. Be aware there may be more than one vehicle that needs to pass.

5. How should a disabled person plan for a fire emergency?

Assure that you have a well-defined escape plan. Make sure that people who are confined to a wheelchair have immediate access to their wheelchair when an emergency occurs. It is usually better for disabled persons to have ready access to outside exits.

6. What is the City of Tuscaloosa's ISO rating?

The Insurance Services Office (ISO) has given the City of Tuscaloosa a Class 3 Rating.

7. What kind of Emergency Medical Services do you provide?

All City Firefighters are trained to First Responder levels in emergency medical response. Almost all are basic emergency medical technicians or paramedics.

8. Does the fire department get cats out of trees?

No. Try opening a can of tuna or cat food and wait for the cat to come down on its own.

9. How can I schedule the Fire Dept. to provide safety information at my function?

Call the Public Safety Educator at (205) 248-5445 at least 2 weeks in advance to determine availability.

10. What do firefighters do when they are not on a call?

Training takes up a great deal of their time when they are not at an emergency. Firefighters also participate in fire safety inspections, public education and pre-fire planning. They often drive the community to become familiar with the area to reduce response time during incidents. Firefighters must also check and maintain their equipment, and clean and maintain their stations.

11. Why do so many fire engines respond to a fire that seems small?

The standard response to a residential structure fire includes three engine companies, one ladder truck company, one rescue truck and one chief officer. As soon as the first arriving engine determines that other resources are not needed, they are immediately released. The main goal of the Tuscaloosa Fire & Rescue Service is to save lives and property, and this level of response is necessary to accomplish this goal over 95% of the time.

12. How many calls does the department respond to each year?

The Tuscaloosa Fire and Rescue Department responds to an annual average of 8,000 calls for assistance; almost 90% of the calls are for emergency medical assistance to the sick or injured.

13. How do I get a copy of a fire report?

Fire run reports are available from Tuscaloosa Fire and Rescue Service administrative offices on the first floor of the City Hall Annex on University Blvd. Office hours are 7:00-5:00, Monday-Friday. Phone 248-5420.

14. Why does a fire engine respond with an ambulance?

Current industry standard for an effective fire response is four personnel on an engine. The required crew for an ambulance is two personnel, but most patients require the assistance of more than two pairs of caring hands whenever an ambulance is summoned. Responding with an engine and a rescue vehicle ensures an adequate crew for any situation we might encounter.

15. Why do fire crews work 24-hour shifts?

Because crews work 24-hour shifts, the average fighter workweek is 56 hours. If crews were to work 8-hour shifts (40-hour weeks), an entire fourth shift of 18 people would need to be added. This is the most cost-effective work schedule for fire protection.

16. Why do we see fire crews at the grocery store?

Because crews work a 24-hour shift, they must eat their lunch and dinner at the station. The firefighters eat the same meal, as a group. The crews pay for their food out of their own pockets. Each morning, after equipment is checked and housework completed, one of the vehicles (engine or rescue truck) will make a quick trip to the grocery store to purchase the food for the shift. All crews remain in service to respond to calls during this time.

17. How can I donate a structure for the fire dept. to use in training?

Abandoned buildings or structures slated for demolition provide firefighters with additional experience working in live structures. Structures can be donated for non-destructive training, destructive training or burn training. Considerable preparation time may be required of the owner beforehand. All training structures need an asbestos survey and provide proof of no insurance. It is important to note the structure is not reduced to an easily moved pile of rubble but rather a burned-out structure that will need to be removed by the owner. For more information, contact the Fire Marshal at 248-5420.

18. Why do firefighters break windows & cut holes in roofs during a fire?

Fire in a building creates a tremendous amount of heat and smoke. In many instances, firefighters must remove this heat and smoke before they can get close enough to extinguish the fire. Heat and smoke rise, so cutting a hole in the roof and breaking out windows in strategic locations allows the smoke to vent upwards, allowing cool air to enter the structure from below. This improves visibility and lowers heat conditions for the firefighters inside, allowing them to quickly and safely extinguish the fire. Remember, heat and smoke cause damage, too, so ventilation will actually reduce overall damage to a building and contents.

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Human Resources

Show All Answers

1. What positions are currently available?

We have our available jobs posted on this site. Access them by clicking on the following link. Current Job Listings

2. What is the hiring process?

Click on the following link for information on the hiring process for the City of Tuscaloosa's jobs. Hiring Process

3. What type of benefits does the City offer?

For a listing of the Benefits offered to full time employees click on the following link. Benefits

4. Where do I send my application and resume for a job posting?

Human Resources Department
P.O. Box 2089
Tuscaloosa, AL 35403

5. Can I apply online?

Yes. Click on the following link for the employment page. Online application

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Main FAQs

Show All Answers

1. Get Curfew Ordinance Facts

The City’s curfew ordinance prohibits minors (persons under the age of 18) from being in public places during night time hours, 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, 11p.m. to 6 a.m. Friday and Saturday. More...

2. When to use 911?

Preview these PSAs to learn when. It addresses two very serious issues - the mis-use of 9-1-1 for non-emergencies and the lack of accurate location information from mobile phones. More...

3. When to use 311?

Call 311 or access 311 website

4. Where do I vote in the General Election in Tuscaloosa County?

Call the Tuscaloosa County Voter Registrar's Office at (205)349-3870 ext. 415 thru 418.

5. Invest in Tuscaloosa's Pre-K Initiative

The donation process is very simple and ensures that all monies go directly into the classrooms. Invest now...

6. When does the Tuscaloosa City Council meet?

The Council meet each Tuesday at 6:00 p.m. All committee meetings are on Tuesdays prior to the weekly Tuesday evening Council meeting. Check the Calendar on our home page for more details.

7. Who is my City Council representative?

District 1: Bobby E. Howard
District 2: Harrison Taylor
District 3: Cynthia Lee Almond
District 4: Lee Garrison
District 5: Kip Tyner
District 6: Bob Lundell
District 7: William Tinker III
City Council Information and Maps

8. Does the City of Tuscaloosa Recycle?

Yes. Drop-off points for recycleable items are at the following locations:
Fire Stations
#2: 322 Paul Bear Bryant Drive East
#3: 202 Rice Valley Road N.E.
#6: 3029 Loop Road
#10: 8101 New Watermelon Road

Skyland Elementary School
408 Skyland Blvd.

Environmental /Services Department
1120 28th Ave.

Waste Recycling Inc.
907 31st Ave.

University Church of Christ
1200 Julia Tutwiler Dr.

Alberta Police Sub-Station
2731 University Blvd. East
More...

9. How do I report a sanitary sewer problem?

Call the Wastewater Treatment Plant at 349-0273. More...

10. How can I bid on City projects or purchases?

You may view current bid opportunities by accessing the following link: Bid Invitations...

11. How do I report a pothole in the street.?

Call 311 or access 311 website

12. Can I get a copy of the Mayor's Core Beliefs?

Yes. More...

13. Can I pay my speeding ticket without coming to court?

Yes, More...

14. Does the City of Northport collect their own sales tax?

Yes. Get more information on the City of Northport's website. More...

15. What employees are eligible for full benefits?

All full time City of Tuscaloosa employees are eligible for full benefits. More...

16. How do I report grass problems online?

Access 311 website

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Municipal Court

Show All Answers

1. Where is the Municipal Court building located?

2122 6th Street,downtown Tuscaloosa, beside City Hall More...

2. What should I expect to happen in Court?

The Prosecutor will call the docket in alphabetical order on Criminal Arraignment and certain traffic offenses on Traffic Arraignment dockets. The Court Magistrate will call the docket on the Traffic Arraignment dockets for minor traffic violations such as speeding, running a red light, running a stop sign, the wrong way on a one way street, etc… The Prosecutor will ask you whether you plead guilty or not guilty. If you plead guilty, the Prosecutor will advise you of the recommendation of a sentence to the Judge and the Judge will then sentence you. If you plead not guilty, the case will be set for trial date by the Judge. If you plead guilty to the Court Magistrate on the minor traffic violation, you will be sentenced to the settlement amount and advised when to pay the fines and court costs. If you are pleading not guilty, the Judge will set the trial date.

3. Can I plead guilty and pay fine and court costs before my court date?

A: Only if it is minor traffic violation. The fines for minor traffic violations are set out in this web site. More...

4. What do I do if I get a Minor in Possession citation?

you must appear in court More...

5. Can I pay my ticket without coming to court?

Maybe,if it is on the minor traffic fine schedule. Payment will be accepted at the cashier's window or you may mail a money order or a cashier's check along with your copy of the ticket (signed on the defendant's line) or use E-Services as long as it is not after your court date. More...

6. Can someone else pay my fine for me?

Only if you have signed a plea of guilt More...

7. I lost my ticket, where can I get a plea of guilt?

A printable guilty plea (for use with minor traffic offenses only)may be obtained by clicking on this link. More...

8. How can I find out what my fine will be before I come to Court?

The Judge can order a fine of up to $500 and/or 6 months in jail on any charge in municipal court except for Driving under the Influence whereby the fine and jail time can be higher. more

9. Am I expected to pay my fine and court costs when I appear in Court?

The Judge or the Court Magistrates will give you the date to pay your fines.

10. Do I have to pay extra court costs if I come to Court?

The court cost will remain the same whether you come to court or not.
The court cost is already included in the amount paid for minor traffic citations. If a trial or failure to appear fine is applicable, the court cost could increase due to subpoena or late fees. The fine, however; is subject to change if a trial is requested. This is at the discretion of the Judge.

11. What kind of payment is accepted?

Cash, cashier's check, money order, Master Card and Visa (with valid ID) More...

12. Can I reset my court date over the phone?

A: No, all request for resets and/or continuances must be made in person.

13. Can I bring my children with me to court?

Children under 10 are not allowed in the courtroom.

14. How do I keep a traffic ticket off my record?

If an individual has a speeding ticket and no other moving violations, the Court will consider dismissal upon completion of defensive driving school and payment of court costs of $110.00. You will have to appear in Court to request a dismissal. The options on the other type of minor moving violations are to either plead guilty or to plead not guilty and have a trial.

15. What should I wear to Court?

Suitable attire is required. Shirts and shoes are required. Halter tops, tank tops, and shorts are not appropriate. No hats or do-rags may be worn in the Courtroom. Cell phones and electronic devices must be turned off. Children are not permitted.

16. What do I do if there is a warrant for my arrest?

You must turn yourself in to the Tuscaloosa Police Department and post a bond. You will be given a Court date. More...

17. How do I get a court-appointed attorney?

You can apply for a court-appointed attorney when you appear in court. The Judge will make the determination of whether you are eligible for a court-appointed attorney. Eligibility is based on financial need.

18. What type of bond must I use?

You may use a bonding company, property bond or cash bond unless the warrant is for failure to appear whereby you will have to post a cash bond.

19. Where do I pay my parking ticket?

At the cashier's window at Tuscaloosa Municipal Court or on-line using E-Services (must be by your court date.) For help call 205-248-5330.

20. How can I contact the Tuscaloosa County Courthouse?

205-349-3870 More...

21. How do I view Municipal Codes?

Municipal codes can be viewed and printed from Municode.com More...

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New Resident Information

Show All Answers

1. Where can I sign up for water services?

You may sign up on the 2nd floor of the new City Hall Annex. City Hall is located on the corner of 22nd Avenue and University Blvd.

2. Recycling?

Yes, the City of Tuscaloosa recycles. More...

3. Where are the parks?

For your leisure, parks are located throughout the City. If you are in need of exercise, quiet time, a picnic, or just getting away from it all, visit one of our many parks. More...

4. Where can I find the new resident packet?

You can find a lot of information online by clicking on the link below or visit The Tuscaloosa Chamber of Commerce located across from Tuscaloosa City Hall on University Blvd. More...

5. Are any animals banned in the city limits?

It shall be unlawful to allow any dog to be at large within the city limits. The dog(s) may be restrained by a fence, leash of not more than ten feet in length, or tied. It is no defense that the owner of the dog was unaware the dog was not confined.

6. Where can I find emergency disaster information?

Disasters can strike quickly and history shows Tuscaloosa is not immune. Emergency Management provides leadership; planning, education and resources to protect lives, property and the environment in the event a disaster were to strike. More...

7. Trash Pickup?

Any items such as debris can be left at the curve by 7 a.m. Your scheculed pickup will vary depending on your resident location. Please make sure items are easily accessible. Call James Epes at 205 349-0260 for additional information.

8. Resources for other services, e.g. electricy, gas?

Follow the link below for additional services from other providers. More...

9. Where can I find local school information?

Follow the link below for information of schools and colleges. More...

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Police

Show All Answers

1. Where can I get information about sex offenders?

You can get information two ways. Click on the "Locate Sex Offenders" on the right-hand side of the TPD home page OR subsribe to our email notification list using "Notify Me" which is listed under "E-Services" at top right of screen. Click here to sign up for Notify Me.

2. How do I request a police officer for an emergency?

Dial 911

3. How do I request a police officer for a non-emergency?

Dial 349-2121

4. What Information do I need to give 911 when I call?

First off, always try to remain calm and speak clearly
Stay on the phone with us until the operator tells you to hang up
Tell us the type of emergency (accident, robbery, etc)
Tell us the address of the emergency or where to send the officer(s)
Is anyone injured, is an ambulance or rescue required?
If there is "suspect" information, give us as complete of a description as you can.
In most cases you will be asked for your name.
If you're calling from a cell phone while driving, make sure you can call us safely.

5. How do I inquire about a police report?

Call: 349-0470 (7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday)
Click here for Accident Reports online

6. How do I apply for a parade permit?

You must fill out and submit the Application and Permit for Parade, Procession or Assemblage upon City Streets. More...

7. Can a civilian ride with Tuscaloosa Police Officers?

Yes. Through our Ride-Along Program, citizens 18 years or older can ride with a Patrol Officer during their regular shift. You will need to complete the Ride-Along Form and submit it to police headquarters...
Ride Along Form

8. How can I get media information?

Call: 349-0480 (6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday)

9. How do I inquire about an impounded vehicle or recovered property?

Call: 349-0481 (8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday) More...

10. How do I find out about a bond for a person in jail or see if someone is in jail on city charges?

Call: 349-0486 (24/7)

11. How do I get information about a Taxi License?

Call: 349-2121 (7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday) More...

12. Who do I call for general police information?

Call: 349-2121

13. How do I get employment information?

Call: 349-0128 (8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday) More...

14. How do I report an uncut yard or unkempt premises?

Phone our "Grass Hotline" at 247-4727

15. How do I report information about illegal drug activity?

Call: 349-0410. If no one is available to take your call, you may leave the information on our Secure Voice Mail.

16. I need information about an ongoing investigation. Who do I call?

For burglary, theft, robbery, business service: 349-0420
Serious assault, homicide, rape: 349-0518
Juvenile crime: 349-0445

17. Does the department have a Reserve Program?

TPD does not have a Reserve Program. However we do have a "Ride Along" program and the "Explorer's Program".
Ride Along Form...

18. Who do I call to file a complaint against an officer?

Call the TPD Office of Standards and Integrity @ (205) 349-0559.

19. Where do I pay my traffic or parking ticket?

For Traffic Tickets:
Tuscaloosa Municipal Court
2206 6th Street
(205) 349-0506
For Parking Tickets:
Tuscaloosa Department of Transportation
1000 28th Avenue
(205) 349-0255

20. Can I pay my traffic or parking ticket online?

You can pay traffic tickets online. Click on the "Pay Tickets Online" link on the right-hand side of the TPD home page.
Parking tickets must still be paid at the TDOT offices.

21. How do I swear out a warrant on an individual?

If the crime occurred in Tuscaloosa and a report was taken by a Tuscaloosa Police Officer, you must first obtain a copy of your police report. After you've gotten your report you must meet with a Municipal Court Magistrate either at the Municipal Court building or at police headquarters.

22. I need fingerprints taken for a job application. Can TPD do that for me?

Yes. Fingerprinting is available to the public on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:00 am to 11:30 am and from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm. There is no charge for this service.

23. I need a pistol permit. Where do I go?

Pistol permits are issued by the Tuscaloosa County Sheriff's Office at 700 Greensboro Avenue.
More...

24. I'm going out of town on vacation. What do I need to do?

Make your house looked lived in. This includes stopping your paper and mail delivery or having a neighbor pick it up. Let your neighbors know your going out of town so they can "keep an eye" on your home. Leave a few lights on or leave certain lights on a timer. Call us at 349-2121

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Revenue

Show All Answers

1. When are taxes due?

MONTHLY taxes are due by the 20th day of the month following the reporting period in which the tax is collected or accrued.
QUARTERLY taxes are due:
1st Qtr (Jan,Feb,Mar)due Apr 20th
2nd Qtr (Apr,May,June)due July 20th
3rd Qtr (July,Aug,Sept)due Oct 20th
4th Qtr (Oct,Nov,Dec)due Jan 20th

2. When is a City of Tuscaloosa business license required?

A business license is required by any person located in any business, vocation, occupation or profession in the City of Tuscaloosa or its Police Jurisdiction. Application for License/Tax Application

3. What are the steps in getting a business license?

The first step is determining where your physical location will be. If this location is inside the city limits or the police jurisdiction, then you will be required to get your business location approved through a Code Compliance. Once this Code Compliance is completed, and then a business license will be issued based on your estimated gross receipts.

4. What taxes are administered by the City of Tuscaloosa?

Sales, Use, Rental Tangible Personal Property, Lodging, Liquor, Wine, Tobacco, Commercial and Residential Rental

5. What is considered timely payment?

Payment is considered timely if delivered to the Revenue Department or postmarked by the postal service on or before the due date. If the 20th falls on a weekend or City holiday, the return must be postmarked on or before the next working day, or paid in the Revenue Department the first working day following the weekend or holiday.

6. What is sales tax?

Sales tax is a privilege tax imposed on the retail sale of tangible personal property. The tax is collected by the seller from their customer and remitted directly to the City of Tuscaloosa. All sales of tangible personal property are retail sales except those defined as wholesale sales. Sales Tax Report

7. What are wholesale sales?

Wholesale sales are sales of tangible personal property to licensed retail merchants, jobbers, dealers or others wholesalers for resale. It does not include sales to users or consumers that are not for resale. The seller must maintain the sales tax number or exemption number for these customers.

8. What is rental tangible personal property tax?

Also known as "rental tax", this tax is a privilege tax levied on the lessor for the leasing or renting of tangible personal property. Rental-Tangible Property Tax Report

9. What is use tax?

Use tax is to be filed by persons, firms or corporations storing, using or otherwise consuming tangible personal property in the City of Tuscaloosa or its Police Jurisdiction. Use tax is imposed on the sales price of the propert only if the City of Tuscaloosa sales tax cannont be assessed. Use Tax Report

10. What is the cost of an initial business license?

The cost of the initial business license is based on your estimated gross receipts from the time you open until December 31st plus the base license fee. Application for License/Tax Information

11. What type of license do I need to open a business?

The type of business license issued will be based on the type of business you will be operating. We can determine what type of license is necessary by asking you questions concerning your business. In some cases, more than one type of license may be required. Application for License/Tax Information

12. When does the City of Tuscaloosa businesses license expire?

All City of Tuscaloosa businesses license expires December 31st and are renewable from January 1st until February 15th without a penalty.