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1. Belleville Police Department-Where is the Belleville Police Department located?

The BPD is located at 720 W. Main St, Belleville, IL,, 62220, across from MotoMart.

2. Election Information-Where do I find information on an upcoming election?

Information is available at https://www.co.st-clair.il.us/departments/county-clerk/elections

3. Notary Public-Where can I get my document notarized?

Try your banking institution, a local law firm, or Sandy's License Service. 

4. Occupancy Permit-Where do I go to obtain an occupancy permit?

Residential Occupancy Permits can be obtained through the Health, Housing & Building Department via this link:  https://www.belleville.net/345/Health-Housing-Building or by visiting the Health, Housing & Building Department located at 2300 W. Main St., Belleville, IL.

5. Property Auctions-Who do I contact regarding property to be auctioned in the City?

Contact the St. Clair County Trustee Office of Joseph E. Meyer and Associates at 618-656-5744.

6. Property Taxes-Who do I contact regarding property taxes?

Contact the St. Clair County Assessor's Office at https://www.co.st-clair.il.us/departments/assessor

7. Property Taxes-Where do I pay my property taxes?

Contact the St. Clair County Clerk's Office at https://www.co.st-clair.il.us/departments/county-clerk

8. Records Search-Where do I obtain a copy of birth, death, marriage, and civil union records, and marriage and civil union licenses?

Contact the St. Clair County Clerk's Office for Vital Records at https://www.co.st-clair.il.us/departments/county-clerk/vital-records

9. St. Clair County Courthouse -What is the phone number to the St. Clair County Courthouse?

(618) 277-6600

10. Voting-How do I register to vote, vote by mail, or check my voter registration status?

Contact the St. Clair County Clerk's Office at https://www.co.st-clair.il.us/departments/county-clerk/elections/voter-resources

11. Yard Sale Permits-Are yard sale permits required in the City of Belleville?

Yes. The cost is $5.00 per permit. A maximum of 3 permits can be issued each year for an address. 

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1. What is Electric Aggregation?

Read the Overview of Municipal Aggregation

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1. Who pays to replace the sidewalk?

Under the 50/50 Sidewalk Replacement Program, half of the cost is paid by the city and half of the cost is paid by the homeowner.

2. How is participation determined?

Residents who wish to be included in the 50/50 Sidewalk Replacement Program should complete an application. Annual funding for the program is limited and is on a first come, first served basis. After the application is received, the sidewalk is inspected by city staff to determine if it meets the criteria for participation. If the requested sidewalk is eligible and funds are available, a bill will be sent to the homeowner.

3. What is the criteria for eligibility?

A sidewalk that has severe surface deterioration, has significant settlement or heaving, has cracking exceeding ½ inch horizontally, or has vertical displacement greater than ¾ inch qualifies for the program. In addition, it is sometimes necessary to replace additional sidewalk squares in order to correct the problem. These squares would also be eligible for funding.

4. Who performs the work?

The 50/50 Sidewalk Replacement Program is advertised, and then competitive bids are obtained for the entire package. For this reason, all work done under this program must be performed by the contractor who has been awarded the project by the City Council.

5. When is the work to be done?

The contractor will begin replacements in the spring / summer. He will continue until he has completed all of the eligible sites or until the allotted funding has been spent. If there are remaining funds, the contractor may return in the fall for another group of participants.

6. How does the city handle unsafe sidewalks where the homeowner is not able or not willing to participate in this program?

Because of the liability associated with unsafe sidewalk conditions, the city will place an asphalt patch over any hazardous sidewalk condition they are made aware. The homeowners can then replace the sidewalk when they are financially able.

7. Who should I call if I have any questions?

The Engineering Department can answer any questions about the program. Please call us at 618-257-7649 between the hours of 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

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1. Am I allowed to burn yard waste and household waste in the City of Belleville?

No, effective December 16, 2011, all burning of yard waste and household waste was banned within the city limits of Belleville.

2. Can I bring my child’s scout group for a tour?

Yes. Please call the Fire Department Administration Office at 618-234-2236 to make arrangements for your tour.

3. How can I purchase a Knox Box for my business?

You can order by phone, fax, mail, or online. Visit Knox Box to order online or download and print the form to use all other options. We recommend the 3200 series, which holds up to 10 keys.

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1. What is carbon monoxide (CO)?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless, and toxic gas. Because it is impossible to see, taste, or smell the toxic fumes, CO can kill you before you are aware that it is in your home. At lower levels of exposure, CO causes mild effects that are often mistaken for the flu. These symptoms include headaches, dizziness, disorientation, nausea, and fatigue. The effects of CO exposure can vary greatly from person to person depending on age, overall health, and the concentration and length of exposure.

2. Where does carbon monoxide come from?

Carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come from several sources: gas fire appliances, charcoal and gas grills, wood burning furnaces or fireplaces, and motor vehicles. Anything that burns fuel creates CO. Usually the CO is either outside, vented to the atmosphere, goes up a chimney, or outside through a range hood or fan.

3. Who is at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning?

Everyone is at risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Medical experts believe that unborn babies, infants, children, senior citizens, and people with heart or lung problems are at an even greater risk for CO poisoning.

4. What actions do I take if my carbon monoxide detector goes off?

If no one is feeling ill:

• Silence the alarm.
• Turn off all appliances and sources of combustion (i.e. gas furnace, fireplace, gas dryer, hot water heater, etc.)
• Call 9-1-1 to investigate the source of the possible CO buildup.

If illness is a factor:

• Evacuate all occupants immediately.
• Determine how many occupants are ill and determine their symptoms.
• Call 9-1-1. When relaying information to the dispatcher, include the number of people feeling ill.
• Do not re-enter the home without the approval of a Fire Department representative.

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1. How often do I need to replace my smoke detectors?

Newer smoke detectors have approximately an 8 to 10 year lifespan of reliable service, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. Change them when they reach that age, even if they still seem to be functioning properly. Replace all the detectors when you move into a new home, if you are unsure of their age.

2. What types of smoke alarms are available?

There are many different brands of smoke alarms available on the market but they fall under two basic types: Ionization and Photoelectric. Ionization alarms sound more quickly when a flaming, fast moving fire occurs. Photoelectric alarms are quicker at sensing smoldering, smoky fires. There are also combination smoke alarms that combine ionization and photoelectric into one unit, called dual sensor smoke alarms. Because both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms are better at detecting distinctly different yet potentially fatal fires, and because homeowners cannot predict what type of fire might start in a home, the United States Fire Administration (USFA) recommends the installation of both ionization and photoelectric or dual sensor smoke alarms. In addition to the basic types of alarms, there are alarms made to meet the needs of people with hearing disabilities. These alarms may use strobe lights that flash and/or vibrate to assist in alerting those who are unable to hear standard smoke alarms when they sound.

3. Where should I put smoke alarms in my house?

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement. Many fatal fires begin late at night or in the early morning. For extra safety, install smoke alarms both inside and outside sleeping areas. Since smoke and many deadly gases rise, installing your smoke alarms at the proper level will provide you with the earliest warning possible. Always follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

4. Where would I get smoke alarms?

Many hardware, home supply, or general merchandise stores carry smoke alarms. If you cannot afford a smoke detector, The Belleville Fire Department offers one free detector per household. Call 618-234-2236 for more information.

5. Are smoke alarms hard to install?

If your smoke alarms are hard wired, that is wired into the electrical system, you will need to have a qualified electrician do the initial installation or install replacements. For battery powered smoke alarms, all you will need for installation is a screw driver. Some brands are self adhesive and will easily stick to the wall or ceiling where they are placed. For all smoke alarm installations, be sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions because there are differences between the various brands. If you are uncomfortable standing on a ladder, ask a relative or friend for help. If no one can help you install the detector, The Belleville Fire Department will be happy to do so. Call 618-234-2236 to set up an appointment.

6. How do I keep my smoke alarm working?

If you have a smoke alarm with batteries:

• Smoke Alarms powered by long-lasting batteries are designed so that the entire unit is replaced according to manufacturer’s instructions.
• In standard type battery powered smoke alarms, the batteries need to be replaced at least once per year and the whole unit should be replaced every 8-10 years.
• In hard-wired, battery back up smoke alarms, the batteries need to be checked monthly, and replaced at least once per year. The entire unit should be replaced every 8-10 years by a licensed electrician.
  
  

7. What if the alarm goes off while I’m cooking?

Do not disable your smoke alarm if it sounds due to cooking or other non-fire causes. You may not remember to put the batteries back in the alarm after cooking. Instead clear the air by waving a towel near the alarm, leaving the batteries in place. The alarm may need to be moved to a new location. Some of the newer models have a “hush” button that silences nuisance alarms.

8. How long will my smoke alarm last?

Most alarms installed today have a life span of about 8 to 10 years. After this time, the entire unit should be replaced. It is a good idea to write the date of purchase with a marker on the inside of your alarm so you will know when to replace it. Some of the newer alarms already have the purchase date written inside. In any event, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for replacement.

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1. What is occupancy?

Occupancy is a period during which one owns, rents, or uses a certain premises or land. The City of Belleville has specific Occupancy Codes for businesses and residents.

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1. How do you get a library card?

View the complete application procedure.

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1. How do I contact a City department?

Visit the Staff Directory.

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1. Is the Mayor the Local Liquor Commissioner?

Yes. The Mayor approves all liquor licenses before they are issued.

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1. How do I obtain a copy of my police report?

Copies of police reports can be requested by fax, mail or in person. The Records Department has 5 days to complete your request. 

If you are requesting a copy by mail please mail your request to: Records Department, Belleville Police Department, 720 W. Main St., Belleville, IL 62220 

If you are requesting a copy by fax, please fax to 618-234-7133 

Incident and Offense Reports are generally provided at no cost. Accident reports cost $5 per report. We accept cash, checks or money orders. Checks should be made payable to the Belleville Police Department. Accident reports can also be obtained on line at LexisNexis. 

2. How can I obtain a release for my impounded vehicle?

You will need to come to the Police Department and speak with the Desk Sergeant. They will advise you of any fees you have to pay to have your vehicle released. After you pay this fee, you will be given a copy of the receipt to take to the tow yard. The tow company may require you to pay additional fees for storage.

3. Why does the dispatcher call me back if I dial 9-1-1 by mistake?

When anyone calls 9-1-1, the dispatchers must make sure there is no emergency. If you hang up the telephone, we must call you back to make sure everything is alright. If you do not answer, the dispatcher can leave a voice message requesting you call us back or the dispatcher can send an officer to your location to check on you.

4. When I call 9-1-1, does the dispatcher know my location?

If you are calling from a wired line (i.e. your home phone) the information normally shows on our equipment. However, we must verify the information by asking your name, location, and phone number. If you are calling from a cell phone, sometimes the information will appear. If you cell phone does not have a Global Positioning System (GPS) chip in it, only the location of the cellular tower will show up. This is why it is very important to give exact location information when you are calling from a cell phone. If your cell phone has a GPS chip in it, the dispatcher can locate you within 300 feet of your location.

5. If I see a K-9 out in public, am I allowed to pet the dog?

The Police K-9 is a working dog and not a family pet. He is trained to protect his handler. As a safety precaution, we don't allow anyone to approach a Police K-9.

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1. When is yard waste collected?

View the Sanitation Department's Yard Waste Collection Schedule.

2. How much does the trash pickup service cost?

Basic service is $20 per month, which includes the weekly collection of refuse, recycling, and yard waste. The cost for residents who are 65 years of age or older is $15. A photo ID is required when applying for the discounted cost.

3. What about large item(s) pick up?

The city offers a large item pick up on a daily basis, by reservation, for a minimum fee of $65 for one load, $90 for two loads, and $120 for 3 loads. To arrange for a pick up, call the Sanitation Administration office at 618-233-6816 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. All building materials must be cut and bundled in 4 foot lengths or less with twine, string, or rope. 

The following items will not be picked up for a large item pick up: Concrete, bricks, shingles, tires, appliances, electronics, paint or other hazardous wastes, batteries, yard waste, or Waste Management bags filled with items.

4. What is the billing cycle for the services?

Fees are billed along with the sewer bill on a monthly basis. 

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1. What information is available on my sewer bill?

An explanation of your sewer bill can be found at http://www.belleville.net/585/Explanation-of-Sewer-Bill.

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1. How do I report a problem with my sewer line?

Please call the department between the hours of 7 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. We will dispatch an employee to your location to determine if the city is responsible for the problem. After hours, call the Police Department at 618-234-1212 to have an employee dispatched to your location.

2. What options are offered for paying my sewer bills?

The City offers several Methods of Payment

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1. After it snows, when will my street be plowed?

Streets will be plowed in the following order:
1. Designated snow routes & primary routes will be cleared first since these routes are the most frequently traveled.
2. Streets leading to hospitals, fire houses, the St. Clair County Court House & the County Jail.
3. Area streets surrounding & leading to schools must be cleared for safety. NOTE: If schools are canceled, or inclement weather falls on weekends/holidays, these streets will be cleared in rotation for that region.
4. Residential neighborhoods & subdivision streets.

2. When are streets swept?

Streets are swept in a rotation of regions. Frequency depends on the time of year, weather related events, and availability of personnel.

3. How do I get a street sign?

Click on the Report a Concern link on the left to report existing signs that are damaged, missing, or illegible, or to request informational and safety signs, such as, street names, slow children signs & dead end signs. To request a new sign, refer to the Traffic Committee Sign Packet below. New, regulatory signs, such as Stop, Yield, and Parking signs (Loading & Handicap) are considered traffic control signs and must go through Traffic Committee and have an ordinance. Speed limit signs are regulatory and vary. Residential neighborhood speed limit signs are generally 25mph – unless otherwise posted. To alter the posted speed limit requires the submission of a completed Traffic Committee Sign Packet, Traffic Committee approval, and an ordinance.