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About Ames

Frequently Asked Questions

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Fire Department

What is the burning policy in the City of Ames?
There is no burning allowed of yard waste, brush or garbage.  Recreational fires are allowed as long as they are under control, supervised and there are no complaints from neighbors.

How can I get a copy of a fire incident report?
Call the Ames Fire Department at (515) 239-5108 and ask for Joan.

How can I become an Ames Firefighter?
We have just completed the most recent testing and have hired three people from the list that was created for this period.  When this list expires and we are in need of new recruits, we will have another testing session.  This consists of a written civil service test.  Using the results of that test, we make another list of the top candidates and invite them to take a physical test.  After that, a final list is made and candidates are interviewed by the chiefs when a position is open.  To be notified the next time we test, you can fill out an interest card an Human Resources at Ames City Hall.  There are qualifications you must meet to take the written test so be sure to find out what they will be ahead of time.  In the past, you must have one of the following:  First Responder, HAZMAT Operations, Firefighter I and/or Associates Degree in Fire Science.

How can I schedule a fire truck or firefighter at my function?
Call Station One at (515) 239-5108 and Joan will let you know what is available.

Do you offer tours of the fire stations?
Yes.  Call Station One at (515) 239-5108 and Joan will set one up for your group.

Who do I call about a fire extinguisher that doesn't work?
Look in the Yellow Pages under fire extinguisher or fire extinguishing systems.

Do you offer fire extinguisher training?
Yes, we offer fire extinguisher training to service groups, companies, and other organizations.  Call Station One at (515) 239-5108 and ask for Deputy Chief Scott or Deputy Chief Sandoval and they  will set up a training session with one or more of our firefighters.

When an emergency vehicle is approaching that is displaying emergency lights and sirens, what should I do?
By Iowa law, you are required to pull to the right and stop.   This allows fire apparatus adequate and clear lanes to safely and quickly continue its response.

Why do so many fire apparatus respond to simple incidents?
Fire Company units are dispatched according to information received by the 9-1-1 operator.  A structure fire requires a number of people to do all the assigned tasks.  Firefighting teams are assigned certain responsibilities such as fire suppression, search and rescue, ventilation, salvage, safety, accountability, and rapid intervention teams when firefighters become trapped or injured.  The Ames Fire Department would rather be overcautious when they respond to citizens in need of help.  We are always prepared to deal with the worst that could happen.  Discovering that we need more units once we arrive is often too late.  We have learned that it is better to have to much help than not enough.

Why do I see fire trucks with full lights and sirens go through a red light at intersections and then, after they go through, they turn off their lights and slow down.
As explained in the previous answer, sometimes several units are dispatched to the same incident.  The first arriving unit can assess the situation and call off the unneeded units.  They are then put back in service and ready for other calls.

Why do fire trucks respond to motor vehicle accidents?
There are two reasons.  First, automobile accidents present other hazards such as potential fire, ruptured fuel tanks, and/or the presence of hazardous materials.  Second, firefighters are trained in extricating (removing) trapped occupants of the vehicle.

Why do firefighters respond to medical calls?
The Ames Firefighters are also first responders.  We carry medical equipment on our trucks.  We arrive to assist the paramedics.  When we arrive first we are able to begin a patient history, take vitals and size up the scene to transfer the care of the patient quickly. 

Utility Questions

Power outage? Day or Night call  (515) 239-5240. Listen to KASI (1430 AM), KCCQ (105.1 FM) on a battery-operated radio for updates and information.

Utility bill question? Customer Service, (515) 239-5120.

Street light out? Electric Distribution, (515) 239-5500, Monday-Friday between 7 a.m.-4 p.m. After hours, weekends or holidays, call Electric Power Plant, (515) 239-5240.  Or e-mail us:  schumer@city.ames.ia.us

Storm sewer trouble? Operations, (515) 239-5550.     After hours, weekends, or holidays, call (515) 239-5150.

Tree growing too close to the electric lines? Electric Distribution, (515) 239-5500.

Locating a utility? All utility locations now go through the Iowa One-Call system. 800-292-8989.

Renting security lights? Electric Engineering Office, 502 Carroll, (515) 239-5206.

Water or Sewer concerns? Sanitary sewer or storm sewer Operations, (515) 239-5550.
After hours, weekends or holidays, call (515) 239-5150.

Who do I call for assistance with natural gas service?
The 24-hour customer service phone number for Alliant Energy is 1-800-822-4348. If you think you may have a gas leak in your home, leave the residence and make the call from a safe place.

Licenses and Permits

Where can I go to obtain an Iowa Driver's License?
The Iowa Department of Transportation offers applications and testing for new and renewing driver's licenses at the IDOT office located at 3708 W. Lincoln Way, Ames, IA, 50014. The phone number is (515) 296-2393. Hours of operation are subject to change, but are currently:
    Tuesday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.     
    Wednesday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
    Thursday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
    Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  
    Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

How can I get a noise permit?
If you anticipate having some activity which might generate a violation of the noise ordinance, you should apply for a noise permit. These permits are available from the Ames Police Department, but you need to plan ahead in order to apply for one. If you apply, you will be asked to complete an application form that describes the site, the source of the expected noise, and the responsible person(s) in control of the party. There is no fee for obtaining a noise permit. In addition, we have information that might be helpful if you are planning a large gathering - information that just might help you avoid problems. If you are granted a noise permit, it will specify just how loud your event may be and the time(s) you will be allowed to exceed the normal limits.  Permits are not issued after noon on Fridays for the current weekend.

We want to have a party, but heard there is a "Keg Ordinance" in Ames, what should we do?
Unless you obtain a permit from the Ames Police Department, you may only tap one beer keg at a time during your party. To obtain a permit you will have to go through a short briefing with the police department's alcohol enforcement team. The purpose of the briefing is to provide you with information relating to your legal obligations when making alcohol available to others, and to help you plan for a successful, socially responsible party.  There is no charge for a permit.

Where do I get a license for my vehicle?
Motor vehicles are licensed through the county. You need to go to the Story County Courthouse Treasurer's Department, Motor Vehicle Division. Please contact them at (515) 382-7330 for further information.

I need to get a dog license. How much does that cost and where do I go to do that?
Licenses for dogs or cats are not required by the City of Ames.  Current Rabies Tags are required.  Check with your Veterinarian of choice, or call the Ames Animal Shelter at (515) 239-5530.

Does my bicycle need to be licensed with the City? If so, where do I need to go to get a license?
The City of Ames does license bicycles; it is not mandatory, but highly suggested. In the event your bicycle is found, the registration number can be entered into the computer to ascertain the name of the owner. The Communications Center will then contact you. The fee for the license is $5. The licenses may be purchased at all bicycle shops; Cubs, Save-U-More and HyVee food stores; Osco Drug, and the Finance Department at City Hall. These funds are used to improve and/or create bike paths within the City of Ames.

We're going to have a parade for the 4th of July down Main Street. Do we need a parade permit?
An actual permit is not granted; however, you need to contact the City Transportation Engineer at
(515) 239-5275 and inform him of the parade. He will assist you in arranging barricades, police escorts, etc., to ensure the safety of the marchers.

Police Department

What is the location of the Ames Police Department?
The Ames Police Department is located in the Ames City Hall Building at 515 Clark Avenue, Ames, IA 50010. Our non-emergency phone number is (515) 239-5133. We are open 24 hours-a-day, everyday.

Is the Ames Police Department currently hiring?
For information regarding personnel openings with the Ames Police Department, or any other city department, please contact the Human Resources Department, City of Ames, 515 Clark Avenue, Ames, IA 50010, phone (515) 239-5199.

I need to be fingerprinted for a job application, professional license or other personal reason, will the Ames Police Department do this?
Yes, please come to the Ames Police Department public lobby and explain what you need. Hours for general public fingerprinting are daily from 5:30 - 6:30 am, 10:00 - 11:00 am, and 7:00 - 8:00pm. There is a small fee charged for this service and you will need to bring all the fingerprint forms with you for your particular needs.

How about fingerprinting children?
We also fingerprint children. The APD Explorer Post offers free public fingerprinting sessions at locations throughout Ames as part of their community service program. If you have an immediate need for finger printing your child, you may come to the police station at the times listed above.

Can you tell me the condition of the roads in Central Iowa?
The Iowa State Patrol offers a road report hot-line at 1-800-288-1047.   This service is updated as often as possible during periods of bad weather.

Does the City of Ames have a severe weather outdoor warning system?
Yes, the emergency outdoor warning system is activated whenever the National Weather Service issues a tornado warning for Ames. Additionally, actual sightings of tornadoes by law enforcement personnel or other reliable sources are grounds for activating the warning system. Two important notes: the system is routinely tested at 10:00 am on the first Wednesday of each month from March through September, weather permitting, and we do not issue an "all clear" siren. For additional information, please refer to local radio and television stations - please do not call the police department during severe weather situations - unless you have an actual emergency.

Where is the courtroom?
The Iowa Second Judicial District operates a courtroom in the Ames City Hall Building at 515 Clark Avenue, Ames, IA 50010, and also at the County Courthouse in Nevada, IA.   Check with the Clerk of Courts office if you are unsure of where to appear.   Each court handles specific types of cases.   The courtroom and the Clerk of Courts office in Ames are located on the second floor of the City Hall Building. Call (515) 239-5140 for more information.

How can I obtain a restraining order against someone?
There are several ways to obtain a restraining order against someone. You may want to consult with a private attorney, and have them represent you. If you cannot afford to hire a private attorney, you may ask the Story County Legal Aid Services at (515) 382-2471 for assistance. Finally, in cases of domestic abuse, a victim can go directly to the Clerk of Courts Office and get assistance with the paperwork.

I received an obscene/harassing phone call. What should I do?
 If you receive repeated prank phone calls, phone harassment or other calls that might require follow-up with specialized phone equipment, you are urged to contact the telephone company directly. The US West Communications phone numbers are 1-800-541-3386 or 1-800-582-0655.

How can I obtain a copy of an incident or accident report?
The Records Division of the Ames Police Department will provide copies of reports for insurance companies, etc. for a nominal fee. The office is located at the Police Department, and is open weekdays from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. For additional information on these services, please refer to the "Records" page.

Was my stray pet picked up by the Animal Control Officer?
All questions concerning animal control, both domestic and native animals, should be directed to the Ames Animal Control Shelter. The phone number is (515) 239-5530. Check out their website here.

I want to know if a friend of mine is in jail at the Ames Police Department.
Persons taken into custody by the Ames Police Department are held temporarily at the City Jail. If the person is an adult, and we have them in custody, we will tell you that information over the phone. We cannot discuss the details of criminal cases over the telephone, or in person, unless it is with the arrested person's legal counsel. We cannot discuss cases involving juveniles with anyone except their legal guardian or legal counsel. Questions- call (515) 239-5133.

I want to report a missing person. What information do I need?
Technically, a missing person is defined as any individual, of any age, who is missing and is under any proven physical or mental disability, or who is missing under circumstances indicating that his/her physical safety is in danger, or under circumstances indicating the disappearance is not voluntary, or after a catastrophe. In the case of minor children: abducted by a non-custodial parent ,or lost. In order to report a missing person, you must appear in person at the police station, complete a detailed description of the missing person, and indicate why you believe the person should be considered missing in the context of the above definition.

People are knocking on my door selling merchandise.  Is it legal for them to sell door-to-door?
The City of Ames requires transient merchants to be registered with the City Clerk's Office. Call the Communications Center at (515) 239-5133 to ascertain if the group knocking on your door has done so. If they are causing problems for you or harassing you, a visit by an Ames police officer may be warranted.

An officer stopped me for no reason and acted very rude to me. I want to issue a complaint against that officer. What do I need to do?
Contact the Chief of Police at (515) 239-5130 to inform him of the occurrence. He will assign an Internal Affairs Investigator to investigate the incident.

I would like to have an officer talk to my neighbors and me about crime prevention. Is that possible?
The Ames Police Department has a Speakers Bureau available to make presentations on a variety of topics to groups. Tours of the Police Department may also be arranged. Call the Chief's Office at (515) 239-5130 to arrange for a speaker or tour.

Where do I get a gambling permit? The Gaming Division of the Department of Inspections and Appeals. Phone 515-281-7357

Where is small claims court? Small claims are held in the courtroom at Ames City Hall, 515 Clark Avenue. For information or questions call the Ames branch of the Clerk of Court. (515) 239-5140

Where do I pay fines?
 

 

Traffic tickets. These are handled through the Ames branch of the Clerk of Court. If you simply want to pay the ticket, and an appearance is not required, then you can either mail or bring the appropriate copy of the ticket, plus the fine to the Clerk of Court’s office, 515 Clark Avenue, Ames, Iowa 50010. If you must or want to appear in court, the courtroom is located at Ames City Hall. Your date of appearance should be written on your ticket. For questions or to change a court appearance, contact the Clerk of Court. (515) 239-5140. If the ticket was issued outside of Story County, there should be a corresponding address for the local Clerk of Court’s office near the top of the citation. Send the ticket plus fine to that address.

Parking Tickets. City of Ames parking tickets which are less than 30 days old can be paid at Ames City Hall, 515 Clark Avenue, Ames, Iowa, to the Cashier inside the east door between 8 am and 5 pm, or; payments can be placed in the drop box in front of Ames City Hall (east side), or; payments can be placed in the drop box located on Welch Avenue in the campustown area. These locations are also listed on your ticket. If you have questions about the amount you owe or if a specific ticket is too old to pay to the City of Ames, contact Finance Customer Service at (515) 239-5283. If your ticket is more than 30 days old, it could be filed with the Ames Clerk of Court and would have to be paid to them. Check with the Finance Department to see if it has been filed.

Where can I get information about the city’s parking regulations? Parking regulations are Chapter 18 of the Ames Municipal Code. Copies of the Code are located at the Ames Public Library, Iowa State Library and on the City’s Web Page at http:// www.city.ames.ia.us, under Departments, City Attorney, or Mayor/Council, City Code. If you have further questions, you may call the City Attorney’s office at (515) 239-5146.

Ordinances

Where can I get information regarding the City of Ames Noise Ordinance?
You may check out a copy of the Municipal Code at the Ames Public Library, or look at a copy at most City Hall offices. The Noise ordinance is described in Chapter 16 of the Code. Basically, the noise ordinance limits the amount of noise allowed from any particular source within the city. Motor vehicles as well as private residences are regulated for the protection and peace and quiet of your neighbors. Legal noise limits, measured in decibels, are set for various zoning designations and times of day.

What is the City Snow Ordinance and when does it go into effect?
Chapter 22 of the Municipal Code details the provisions of the snow ordinance. The purpose of this law is to ensure that main arterial streets, CyRide routes, etc. can be cleared of snow in an expedient and efficient manner. All snow routes within the city are marked with signs. When there is significant snowfall, and the city administration deems it necessary, the snow ordinance will be invoked. Local radio and television stations are notified of this development. Cars left parked on designated snow routes are subject to ticketing and towing in order to clear the street for the snowplows. Once the snow stops falling and the street is completely plowed, you may resume parking on the snow route, as regulated under normal conditions. any questions regarding the snow ordinance or snow routes should be directed to the city snow desk at (515) 239-5543.

Phone numbers

What is the phone number for ISU Department of Public Safety?
You can contact the Iowa State University Department of Public Safety at (515) 294-4428. They are open 24 hours-a-day, everyday.

What is the phone number for the Story County Sheriff's Department?
You can contact the Story County Sheriff's Department at (515)382-6566.

What is the phone number for the Iowa State Patrol in Des Moines?
You can contact the Iowa State Patrol at (515) 246-8389.
 

Traffic/Parking
Where can I pay a City of Ames parking ticket?

There are several options for payment of city parking violations.  Drop off boxes are located in several locations within the city. Those locations are listed on the ticket. You can also mail the fine with the ticket to the address shown on the ticket, but please don't send cash through the mail.  Finally, you may pay the fine in person at the City Finance Department at City Hall, 515 Clark Avenue, Ames, IA 50010. If you have further questions regarding payment, or have lost your copy of the ticket, please contact the finance department at
(515) 239-5120.

What if I want to contest a ticket?
In the event you want to contest a parking ticket, you must first see the Chief of Police or his Secretary
(515) 239-5130.  If you are unable to reach an acceptable agreement there, you may request a trial before the judge by contacting the City Attorney's Office (515) 239-5146. Generally a court appearance date is scheduled on traffic citations.  This is the time you may plead Not Guilty if you choose, and a trial date will be set.  However if you have any questions about your appearance obligations you should contact the Clerk of Court's Office
(515) 239-5140 having jurisdiction over your particular situation.

Where can I pay a traffic ticket?
Traffic tickets are handled through the Clerk of Court's Office. If you simply want to pay the ticket, and an appearance is not required, then you can either mail or bring the appropriate copy of the ticket, plus the fine, to the Clerk of Court's Office, 515 Clark Avenue, Ames, IA 50010. If the ticket was issued outside of the Ames area, there should be a corresponding address for the local Clerk of Court's Office near the top of the citation. Send the ticket, plus the fine, to that address.

Where can I get information about the City's parking regulations?
You may call the City Attorney's office at (515) 239-5146 for help in this matter. If you have a parking problem that needs immediate attention, contact the police department at (515) 239-5133.Copies of the Municipal Code, Chapter 18, including parking regulations, are available at the Ames Public Library and at most City Hall offices.

What can I do if someone is parked in my parking space?
If you have an unauthorized vehicle parked in your reserved parking stall, leased parking stall, or simply have a vehicle parked on your private property, commercial or residential, you may call the police department
(515) 239-5133 and request that a parking ticket be issued. If the area is adequately posted, the officer will ask you to co-sign the citation. Then you may choose to have the vehicle towed by a private towing service.

How can I get my towed vehicle out of the impound lot?
Vehicles are impounded for a variety of reasons, such as: violation of the snow ordinance, various arrest procedures, as an abandoned vehicle, or as a traffic hazard.   Towing for the impoundment, is re-bid each year by Ames merchants.  Currently, the contract for towing is with Bud's Service Center: Phone (515) 292-3662.  Fees for towing and storage are payable through Bud's.  The current contractual fee is $38 for a day time impoundment or $48 for a night time impoundment.  Depending on the reason for the vehicle being towed, there may also be a parking ticket that will also have to be taken care of.

I got a parking ticket that I didn't deserve. Do I have to pay it?
You may appeal the parking ticket through the office of the Chief of Police. The situation will be investigated using the Municipal Code as a guide and/or discussing it with the issuing officer. If the appeal is denied by the Chief, you may appeal it further by requesting a trial through the City Attorney's office (515) 239-5146.

Resource Recovery

Who collects my Garbage?
In Ames there are only private garbage haulers.   These haulers are able to pick up garbage anywhere in the city; there are no assigned territories.  To find a carrier, check the yellow pages, ask a neighbor for a recommendation.

Will the City pick up my trash?
No.  The City of Ames does not pick up any garbage.

Can I haul it myself?
Yes, you can! Private citizens and small businesses may bring their garbage into the Resource Recovery Plant (RRP) at 110 Center Avenue, and use the car line.  There is a fee for this service; $7 per car load and $19 per pickup or trailer load, payable at the time of disposal.

Where is the Landfill?
We don't have one in Story County.  Garbage goes to the Resource Recovery Plant, where it is processed into ferrous metal, refuse derived fuel (RDF), and rejects.  Through an agreement with the Boone County Landfill, we take our rejected material to them.  Therefore, it is not necessary for us to maintain our own separate landfill.

What do we do with Construction and Demolition Waste?
The City of Ames does not maintain a construction and demolition site; however, you may dispose of these items at the Ames-Story Yard Waste Site located at 2101 Watt St.  They accept shingles, concrete, boards, and material from buildings that have been demolished.  Call 232-5864 for more information.

How can I get rid of Furniture and Appliances?
Hauler Services. Most haulers will pick up furniture or appliances at your home for a fee if you call ahead and make arrangements.  You may also haul these items to the Resource Recovery Plant (RRP).  There is a fee for this service payable at the time of disposal.  Click here for a list of fees.

What about Recycling?
Some haulers pick up glass, cardboard, and milk jugs in separate containers when collecting your regular garbage.  Check with your hauler and ask about schedules and fees.  You may take glass to the RRP free of charge. 

Other materials that were traditionally recycled, such as tin cans and plastic milk jugs, can be placed with your normal trash for collection.  The RRP separates the tin cans and uses the milk jugs as an excellent source of fuel. 

What other services are offered at the RRP?

 

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