Off-Campus Living Cheat Sheet
So you are living or about to live off-campus! There are a few items that you will need to know while living in a community.
1. Trash Pick-Up
There is no trash collection for the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. However, government holidays can affect the collection schedules. Trash will not be collected without signing up or paying for the services. The City of Fredericksburg has conveniently listed the items that are or are not acceptable for trash collection. They have also included the trash collection schedule that is broken down by streets for the city. The City also conducts special cleanup events for bulk trash and hazardous waste disposal. If you live in an apartment complex, commercial dumpster service must be provided by the landlord.
It is illegal to throw or deposit any type of litter or household trash upon any street or sidewalk, or upon any private property. Handbills, flyers or signs posted on poles and trees in the public right of way are a form of litter. They can result in a minimum $50 fine.
2. Curbside Recycling
The Public Works Department provides weekly curbside recycling collection to most residential neighborhoods and in the City of Fredericksburg. The service is free and does not require registration. Residents simply need to place accepted recyclables out for collection on the recycling collection day. For more information, visit the Department’s webpage on curbside recycling.
3. Animal Control
Animal Control Officers enforce the laws that pertain to animals under the Code of Virginia and the animal ordinances of the City of Fredericksburg. These animals include, but are not limited to: dogs, cats, birds, and feral animals. All cases of a person being bitten by an animal, domestic or feral, are investigated by the officers.
The Department of Public Works is responsible for the disposal of dead animals.
Stray animals that are picked up by Animal Control Officers are taken to the Spotslyvania Animal Shelter (540 – 507- 7459).
Normal hours of operation are 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday and when an Animal Control Officer is not available, Patrol Officers handle animal-related calls.
4. Pets
Fredericksburg has a “leash law” that prohibits owners from letting their dogs run free at any time, outside of the Dog Park. Owners are required to keep dogs under control when walking and to have pets inoculated. Dogs must also have a license, issued yearly for $5.00.
5. Noise Ordinance
Fredericksburg has a noise ordinance that applies to all areas of the city. It applies to the sound generated within an apartment or single property, as well as to amplified stereo sound in automobiles, to indoor and outdoor sounds, and to animals that, by habitually howling, barking, or crying, disturb nearby residents. Anyone who wants to exceed the allowed decibel level must apply for a permit. The use of outdoor sound amplifying equipment requires a separate “Outdoor Amplified Sound Permit” issued by the Fredericksburg Police Department. Violation of the City of Fredericksburg Noise Ordinance will result in a Class 3 Misdemeanor.
6. City Decal/Parking Permit information
No decal is required for residential parking within the City of Fredericksburg. A decal will still be available to residents who wish to have the city identification on their cars, and for residents needing to park in areas during restricted hours as indicated by signs stating “No Parking 5:00 am to 8:00 am except residents”.
7. Lawn Care
Lawn care is a must when you are a part of the City of Fredericksburg’s community. Accumulation of rubbish, trash, junk, and other abandoned items on your property is not allowed. Any situation that causes a blighting problem is also prohibited. Permitting your lawn to allow grass/weeds to reach a stage of growth that can provide coverage or harbor for rodents or vermin (rats, mice, snakes, and etc.) is prohibited. The collection of standing or stagnant water that can act as a breeding ground for mosquitos is also prohibited.
Need tips on lawn care? Feel free to ask!