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2019 GO Bond Election | Animal Shelter

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1. How many animals are adopted at the Sugar Land Animal Shelter each year?

The Vision of the city of Sugar Land Animal Services Division is to foster and support a community where all animals are treated humanely and with compassion, and in which there is a forever home for every adoptable animal. When the city’s current animal shelter was originally built in 2008, it was designed to provide approximately 150 adoptions per year. As you can see from the table below, the Sugar Land Animal Shelter has worked diligently to achieve this vision and has well exceeded the originally planned number of adoptions each year. 

FY13	FY14	FY15	FY16	FY17	FY18
593	758	777	781	833	829

2. If we keep neutering all these animals, where do the new ones keep coming from?

The Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 828, requires all public or private animal control agencies, shelters or humane organizations to have their animals sterilized. However, this law does not apply to rescues, breeders or individuals. Irresponsible pet ownership is a contributing factor as to why we continue to see intakes at our shelter. We also receive numerous owned animals that are lost and injured and need shelter and protection until their owners can be contacted, and they can be returned. In addition, our Animal Services Officers respond to animal cruelty cases that often require animals to be removed from properties around Sugar Land. The shelter also holds animals under domestic violence restraining orders; for citizens who pass away in their homes; and when there are arrests and vehicle accidents where animals are involved.  

3. Why does a new animal shelter cost $6.6 million?

The city’s current animal shelter was built in 2008 with funds from surplus sales tax. As the City’s first indoor shelter, it was designed house a total of 24 dogs and 35 cats to provide approximately 150 adoptions per year. A 2015 Facilities Master Plan Update determined that the design capacity of the existing facility had been exceeded, and there was not sufficient space to accommodate expected growth. The city hired consultants to work with the Animal Advisory Board (AAB) to confirm the size, scope, site layout and approximate budget for the new animal shelter. In addition, the citizen-led AAB has focused on the review of Animal Services programs and operations and the identification of facility needs they believe that are necessary to provide these services.

4. Why is a new animal shelter on the ballot?

The 2015 Facilities Master Plan identified the existing animal shelter has exceeded its design capacity. A new shelter will accommodate the projected animal capacity due to the City’s growth.  The new shelter not only provides expanded space to house animals and adoption services, but it incorporates functions to expand the city’s role in managing urban wildlife. Development of land is pushing our wild neighbors closer to our neighborhoods. Wildlife is finding the means to adapt and thrive closer and closer to cities. Animal Services plays a role in increasing people’s understanding and education of our wild neighbors and promoting a safe coexistence of both our citizens and urban wildlife.

5. What types of research and studies were done prior to the animal shelter bond proposition being developed?

The City’s current animal shelter was built in 2008 with funds from surplus sales tax. As the City’s first indoor shelter, it was designed to meet the needs of a growing city by housing a total of 24 dogs and 35 cats and to provide approximately 150 adoptions per year. A 2015 Facilities Master Plan Update determined that the capacity of the existing facility had been exceeded, and there was not sufficient space to accommodate expected growth. For example, Sugar Land Animal Services completed a total of 829 adoptions in Fiscal Year 2018. A 2016 expansion study developed facility expansion options and recommended interim improvements for the existing shelter. The proposed program addresses the work recently completed by the expanded animal advisory board for ultimate growth.

6. Is a new animal shelter being proposed because the 2017 annexation of New Territory and Greatwood caused the animal shelter to exceed its capacity?

With the annexation of Greatwood and New Territory on December 2017, an interim expansion of the current animal shelter was completed through the addition of an existing building which was renovated and relocated to the shelter, increasing the floor space by 56 percent (increasing interim capacity to 62 dogs and 112 cats). While this improvement provided a temporary expansion, the construction of a new Animal Shelter will address projected growth beyond 2030 with a capacity of 70 dogs and 132 cats at any given time.  

7. Did annexation impact service levels and create new needs?

As a result of more than 10 years of planning and funds set aside by residents of the annexed areas specifically for the annexation of Greatwood and New Territory, the city completed one of the largest and most successful annexations in state history. The City evaluated this annexation on a stand-alone basis; and concluded that the cost to the City of providing services to the annexed areas was supported by revenues generated from the annexed areas, and there was no reduction in services to residents already living within Sugar Land’s corporate city limits.

8. How was the design for the proposed animal shelter determined?

In early 2017, the City partnered with the architectural firms of PGAL and Animal Arts to confirm the size, scope, site layout and approximate budget for the new animal shelter. In order to ensure the project encompasses community objectives, the City’s Animal Advisory Board was expanded from 5 to 11 members. The Animal Advisory Board has focused on the review of Animal Services programs and operations, animal shelter expansion space planning and the development of funding options. Read more at http://www.sugarlandtx.gov/1800/History.  

9. I thought the new animal shelter was going to cost closer to 9M. Why isn’t that amount reflected in the bond proposition?

$6.6 million was identified for the construction of an approximately 17,000 square-foot facility which will allow the City to continue to provide our current level of service but with the appropriate spaces. Through the work of the Animal Advisory Board, additional services were identified for inclusion within the facility; as such, a separate capital campaign will be undertaken to fund these additional services. The facility includes animal housing, intake/veterinary space, staffing area, public spaces and space for animal outdoor fitness. This effort will be guided by the Sugar Land Legacy Foundation, a group that works on behalf of the city of Sugar Land to promote community investment in large-scale quality of life projects. Read more at http://www.sugarlandlegacy.org/.  

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2019 GO Bond Election | Drainage

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1. Can you assure the citizens that this would fix the drainage problems in the city?

Drainage problems have different tiers. The top priority for the city is to fix home flooding problems and the proposed drainage improvement projects will reduce the home flooding potential. We have also included drainage improvement projects that will reduce street ponding on major streets and in several neighborhoods.

2. Why didn’t the city more aggressively pursue federal funding after Harvey? Why would you need to ask for additional funds?

The city continues to pursue Federal and state funds to supplement drainage projects.  In order to construct the improvements as soon as possible, the City is seeking approval of bond authority which will allow the City to drive the schedule on these projects and not be dependent on other agencies to provide funding.

3. Will these projects ensure compliance with Atlas 14?

These projects will comply with ongoing Atlas 14 efforts. Sugar Land has adopted the Atlas 14 rainfall frequency estimates for Texas. This resulted in modifications to the city’s Development Code and Design Standards, and the city-adopted guidelines that provide guidance for the review of requests to alter or develop new property within the city.  Changes resulting from the Atlas 14 adoption will apply to new development and redevelopment areas within the city and its extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ).  The city is in the process of updating city-wide ponding maps using the new Atlas 14 rainfall information. The updated maps will show areas where potential street ponding might occur due to an increase in the frequency of intense rain events.

Read more at www.sugarlandtx.gov/Atlas14.

4. My area couldn’t receive Fire/EMS during the recent rain event. Why isn’t my area included in this bond package?

Drainage projects were identified by the criticality in nature per Drainage Master Plan criteria, from structural flooding to major thoroughfare ponding and to neighborhood street ponding as well as project readiness. City staff continues to coordinate emergency efforts during major storm events to improve pass-ability of roadways. The City has also purchased high-water vehicles that can provide rescues during major storm events. This effort is continually coordinated with the County, Levee Districts, Fire, Police, Public Works and Engineering. As we continue to go to the voters for approval of projects, other identified drainage improvements in various areas will be addressed in the next bond election.

5. What is the timing of the Acacia trunk line project vs. the timeline for the LID2 pump station? How do those two projects work together?

The LID 2 new pump station is projected to be in service in early 2021. The engineering design of the Acacia trunk line project would start in October 2020 if the GO Bond Drainage Proposition is approved by the voters and the construction would start in the Fall of 2021.

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2019 GO Bond Election | General

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1. What is a General Obligation Bond?

General obligation bonds are debt instruments issued by states and city governments to finance large capital improvements. Bonds are sold to investors and the proceeds from the sales of these bonds are used to pay for major capital investments that have a public purpose—such as the flood protection, mobility and public safety projects contained in the Sugar Land Bond Program.  Bond elections provide voters the opportunity to have a say in which projects they are most willing to support through the approval of bond propositions to authorize funding for each type of project on the ballot.

2. What projects are planned to be built if the bonds are approved?

• Proposed Drainage Projects
• Proposed Public Safety/Public Facility Projects
• Proposed Streets Projects
• Proposed Animal Shelter Project

3. How do these projects affect me?

Many of the projects build on past and future efforts.

• drainage improvements
• improved streets and mobility
• a public safety training center for first-responders
• a new animal shelter
• investments in aging infrastructure, including streets
• fire equipment to protect the public
• an expanded emergency operations and public safety dispatch center

4. Why is it important that I vote in this bond election?

 Because of low voter turnout, local elections are typically decided by a small number of people. Voting on this bond election gives you the opportunity to have a say in the future of the city.

5. Does the City Council support this new bond election?

Sugar Land City Council unanimously voted to call a Nov. 5 bond election during its Aug. 14 meeting to provide voters an opportunity to decide whether to fund projects identified by residents to address drainage, public safety, mobility and an animal shelter.

6. Why weren’t we given an opportunity to decide which projects to put on the ballot? Last time, a citizen committee made a recommendation; so how were these projects selected?

Based on citizen satisfaction surveys, extensive planning through various master plans and City Council input, drainage, public safety, and traffic and mobility are the top three priorities for our residents. Projects identified for the GO Bond were based on these driving factors. Drainage projects were identified by previous drainage studies, from structural flooding to major thoroughfare ponding to neighborhood street ponding; as well as project readiness. Public safety and public facilities were identified based on Facility Master Plan recommendations. Streets and mobility projects were selected based on pavement assessments and traffic studies. The majority of the projects have been presented to City Council in the past through studies, preliminary engineering and/or design phases.  These projects have been reviewed by City Council to move forward in the G.O. Bond election in November.

7. What happened to the CIP project request that I submitted online, I don’t see it in the FY20 CIP Book or GO Bond Projects?

Each request is received by the City Engineer through the cityengineer@sugarlandtx.gov. Projects requested are weighed by importance and priority needs. If a project is not placed on the project list, it will be reviewed again the following budget process.

8. How do they know the cost of these projects? Have they received bids?

All quoted costs are based on engineer estimates with pricing from current market indices. By state law, and city ordinance, all work will be publicly bid. The projects identified have had previous work performed, including drainage studies and designs, pavement assessments and facilities studies.

9. When will the projects be completed?

The bonds will be issued over three years with projects expected to be completed within three to four years.

10. If the bonds are approved, does that guarantee the projects will be built?

Approving the bonds authorizes the city to incur debt to build the projects. The requested bond amount is based on the projects’ current estimated costs. If those costs change as a project moves forward, then the amount allocated to that project may not be enough to build it. The city may postpone construction of that particular project or seek additional money from the City Council. Staff will provide financial reporting to City Council to keep the public informed of anticipated project costs versus project budgets.

11. Why is the City holding a bond election rather than paying for the projects as we go?

The City issues bonds to finance projects that will benefit the City for decades, allowing the cost to be spread across the useful life of the project.  It would take many years to accumulate enough funding to pay for these projects as we go- during that time the projects don’t get built.

History has shown that construction inflation far outpaces interest costs and are not fixed as the interest will be on bonds. The City’s AAA-rated GO bonds carry the lowest possible interest rates which allow the projects to be financed economically over an appropriate period- usually about 20 years.

12. We voted for parks projects in 2013 and they still have not been completed. Why should we trust you to complete these proposed projects in a timely manner?

The parks bond projects were estimated to be completed within five to seven years. City Council recently committed to include the final parks bond projects in the 2020 proposed budget. In addition, City Council made the decision to increase the homestead exemption to 12 percent to offset the residential impact of the resulting 1 cent tax rate increase.

13. How many propositions will there be?

There will be 4 propositions on the November 2019 ballot.

14. What interest rate would we have to pay? For how long?

The interest rate is set by the bond market at the time the bonds are issued.  Since the City carries the highest possible rating for GO bonds, the interest rate is among the lowest available for municipal bonds.  Sugar Land issues bonds based on a 20-year maturity schedule, with at least half of the principal paying off in the first 10 years.  This aggressive repayment schedule also minimizes the interest cost that must be repaid.

15. Would it [issuance of bonds] affect our credit rating?

The current credit rating or bond rating of the City is AAA- the highest rating available.  Issuing additional bonds does not affect the bond rating as long as there is a sound financial plan to support the bonds, for example- recognizing that they cannot be funded within the existing tax rate and that the tax rate must be increased to fund the bonds.

16. Last bond election we [public] were told appraisals and sales tax could mitigate total tax increase. Why is this one different?

Over the last few years there has been continuous pressure on appraisal districts to reduce growth in appraised values.  The three-cent tax increase assumes no growth in taxable values and is the maximum anticipated impact to support the projects based on current taxable value in the City.   

Sales taxes are not pledged toward repayment of GO bonds; that statement is incorrect and was never made by the City. 

17. Will senior citizens be affected by this increase?

Yes. School districts often freeze taxes for people over 65 because they no longer access educational services; however, the city of Sugar Land continues to provide services to people of all ages.

18. If the bonds pass, is the City going to raise the value of my home?

The City does not set the value of your home. The Fort Bend County Appraisal District is the entity that sets your property’s valuation amount based on market values.  The City is not counting on any increases to taxable values to implement the bond program- with that, passage of all four bond propositions will increase the City portion of your tax bill by 3 cents or about $10 per month for the average Sugar Land home, to fund items such as drainage improvements, a public safety training facility, a public safety dispatch and emergency operations facility, new animal shelter and roadway improvement projects.  

19. What is the bond election's impact on Sugar Land's tax rate?

Should voters approve all propositions, City Council will raise the city's tax rate 3 cents for fiscal year 2021.   The $90 million in projects was identified by residents to address drainage, public safety/facilities, mobility and an animal shelter. The one-time tax rate increase of 3 cents represents an extra $10 per month for the average Sugar Land homeowner. With voter approval, the projects will be funded in future capital programs to begin in fiscal years 2021 to 2023.

20. What are property tax impacts if the bonds are approved?

The bonds represent a FY21 investment of approximately 3 cents on the tax rate or about $10 per month for the average Sugar Land homeowner, to fund items such as drainage improvements, a public safety training facility, a public safety dispatch and emergency operations facility, new animal shelter and roadway improvement projects.

21. Will the proposed tax rate increase be rescinded after the completion of the projects?

The tax rate is set each year by City Council and no City Council can bind future City Councils as to that rate as a matter of state law. By that same law, future City Councils could roll back the rate at any time or raise it at any time. If City Council votes to lower it while money is still owed on the debt, they would need to make cuts elsewhere in services to pay for it.

22. What will happen if this bond program does not pass?

If the city’s voters reject the bond program, bonds will not be issued for the projects included in the program, and the projects may remain unfunded.  The tax rate will not be raised if the bonds are not approved by voters to build the projects.

23. If one Bond proposition does not pass, can the funding be allocated to another priority, such as further drainage improvements in other areas?

If a bond proposition does not pass, it means that the funding associated with that proposition is not approved.

24. You give away tax revenue in the form of abatements that could be used to pay for these projects.

Cities across the nation compete to attract new businesses that add jobs and new revenue streams to local communities. Incentives are important tools to achieve economic development goals. The City does not lose money through such value-added tax abatements, as the development would not have occurred without the tax abatement. The projects result in significant property tax value and revenue to the City after the abatement expires (maximum 10 year terms).  In addition, economic growth generated by these agreements fully benefits the local school districts, as they do not participate in abatements.

25. Who does the City’s financial projections?

All financial projections for budgeting and financial forecasting purposes are conducted in-house by the City’s Finance and Budget Office staff.

26. How are funds repaid that are received through the issuance of General Obligation Bonds?

Property taxes are the main source of funds used to repay bonds issued through a General Obligation bond. General Obligation bonds are backed by the full faith and credit of the issuing jurisdiction, in this case the City of Sugar Land. This means the City is obligated to pay back the bonds plus interest by pledging revenue from ad valorem taxes. The City levies a property tax annually with a portion of the tax rate dedicated to the interest & sinking fund to repay general obligation bonds in the form of annual principal and interest payments.  

27. What is Sugar Land’s current level of debt, and what revenue sources are used to make those debt payments?

Including all debt backed by property taxes, the City has $288 million in outstanding principal and interest on bonds issued by the City and assumed by the City through annexation and dissolution of Municipal Utility Districts over time. This figure does not include debt supported by Sugar Land Regional Airport, the water utility system or economic development sales taxes. 

Property taxes are the only repayment source for General Obligation bonds. The City currently has tax-backed bonds that were inherited from Municipal Utility Districts upon annexation- the water/wastewater component of those bonds are supported by utility revenues.  Other bonds (Certificates of Obligation) are backed by property taxes but are supported with repayment from restricted revenue sources such as hotel occupancy taxes, lease revenues and public improvement district assessments. 

28. Is now a good time economically for the City to issue bonds? Do the economic conditions within the U.S. impact the bonds the City would issue to fund these propositions?

In the last 11 trading days, the DOW has been up more than 300 points three times, and down approximately 2,500 points the other eight days. This wild volatility in stocks is affecting bond yields which have been jumping up and down (mostly down) for much of the last month.  The financial forecast for the City is based on an average interest cost for the City to issue bonds and is not tied to the stock market performance. This is actually a very good time for the City to issue bonds as when bond yields are down that means that it costs less as they carry a lower interest rate.

29. How will these bonds affect interest rates?

The city’s issuance of bonds don’t affect interest rates as they are driven by the supply and demand of the national municipal bond market.  Bond yields are falling, which means that it is less costly for the city to borrow money through the issuance of bonds. Issuing bonds help cities to ensure intergenerational equity by spreading payments for assets and infrastructure over their useful lives. Intergenerational equity relates to equity between present and future generations and considers distribution of resources or burdens between generations.  This helps to ensure that residents today are not responsible for paying for the full cost of a project that will continue to benefit residents for decades in the future.

30. What is the city’s bond rating, and how does it impact these bonds?

The city carries a AAA bond rating from Standard & Poor’s and Fitch Ratings, which is the highest rating available. The ratings demonstrate confidence of the rating agencies in the city’s ability to manage its finances.  This allows the city to ensure our tax dollars go farther by borrowing funds at the lowest possible interest rates.  Each time the city prepares a new debt issue, rating agencies evaluate the city’s credit rating to assign a bond rating to the proposed bond issue as well as all outstanding bonds of the city.  The bonds that are proposed will also carry this rating, which means that the bonds will carry the lowest interest costs available based on municipal bond market conditions at the time they are issued.

31. If the bond election fails, can we use any of the funding capacity for other projects?

If one or more of the bond propositions fails, the city is prohibited from issuing certificates of obligation to fund any of the failed projects for three years.  Because the bond election requires a tax increase to fund, if one or more propositions fails, the actual tax increase will be re-evaluated and adjusted to support the approved propositions, which will also utilize current debt capacity. This decision will be made by City Council during the fiscal year 2021 budget process.

32. What checks and balances are in place to make sure that bond money is only spent on the projects as authorized by the voters?

There are several layers of checks and balances to ensure proper monitoring and handling of the bond program. These checks and balances begin at a staff level as part of the reporting delivered to City Council. Additionally, before any project begins, each must be presented to and approved by the City Council, which usually occurs through the annual Capital Improvement Program Budget Process. In addition, the City Council (at public meetings) must vote to issue the debt and approve design and construction contracts associated with each project. The City also goes through extensive auditing process by outside auditing agencies.

33. Will the bond funds be used for any other purpose?

No. Texas law requires that the proceeds of bonds authorized at the November 2019 special bond election be used only for projects described in the ballot questions.

34. If there is money left over after all the projects are built, can the city use the money for other CIP projects or other purposes?

No. Any funding approved in the November 2019 special election can only be used to complete projects which are set forth in the official Election Information Pamphlet and on the city’s website. The complete bond project list is also included in these FAQs.

35. How do bonds affect the Capital Improvement Plan?

Bonds are one source of funding for city capital projects. Projects that lack funding are not included in the Capital Improvement Program.

36. What kinds of bond-financed projects has Sugar Land completed in the past?

In 2013 the residents approved five Parks Bond projects; 2 of them have been completed including Brazos River Park Phase I and Crown Festival Site, and Imperial Connector Trail. The remaining three projects are Mid-Lake, First Colony Trail, and Ditch H Trail.  Some design and permitting has begun on these projects; construction has not started.

37. How many outstanding bonds is the city including in the 2019 Bond election?

None. There are no outstanding bonds in the proposed bond election.  Once bonds are issued, they do not need voter approval.

Bonds to be considered in the election will be utilized only to construct the projects identified.  When the City refinances outstanding bonds (similar to refinancing a mortgage), it is accomplished through the issuance of refunding bonds, which do not require approval by voters.  Refunding bonds are issued to achieve savings to the City over the remaining life of the bonds.  The City has minimum savings thresholds that must be met before it will consider issuing refunding bonds. 

38. When was the last time there was a General Obligation Bond on the ballot?

GO bonds were last on the ballot in November 2013 with propositions relating to Parks projects.  Prior to that, the last City GO bond election was January 1999.

39. How do the proposed drainage bond projects interact/coordinate with drainage projects that are ongoing within the City’s various LIDs and Fort Bend County?

The city of Sugar Land works closely with flood-control partners -- including Levee Improvement Districts and Fort Bend County -- tasked with protecting residents from river flooding.  Routine maintenance and targeted drainage projects are important to protect Sugar Land during extreme weather events. The city’s regional approach to flood-control projects recognizes that each agency has an important role to play in keeping residents safe.  Joint studies and agreements combined with ongoing communications ensure a coordinated effort. Projects included in the bond referendum build on efforts being implemented by area LIDs that are investing in increased pumping capacity and levee improvements. Project timing will be well coordinated with the LIDs’ projects to ensure the drainage system functions as an integrated system. Sugar Land takes the same approach with Fort Bend County on projects impacting city residents.

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2019 GO Bond Election | Mobility

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1. University Boulevard is a critical corridor. When Tract 5 develops, we will have far more people living, working and visiting the area. Why aren’t you investing more to improve this vital corridor?

Traffic impact studies and analysis have confirmed that this project addresses the current and future needs of the University Boulevard corridor, including the future development of Tract 5. The total project cost is approximately $3.4M with Fort Bend County contributing approximately 50% of the total construction cost approved in the 2017 Fort Bend County Mobility Bond Project.

2. What is the cost breakdown of the proposed roundabout included in the bond package? Why is the proposed round-about on First Colony $2.5 million?

The project includes the extension of the existing Soldiers Field Rd. to SH6, which is approximately 1,100 ft. and a roundabout at the intersection of Soldiers Field and First Colony. The project also includes associated drainage improvements for the roadways and necessary water and wastewater line extensions. The detailed cost breakdown will be available once the design is completed. All project estimates are generated using the City’s cost database which is developed by past construction projects in the City and the region.

3. Why aren’t the improvements on University Blvd continuing North? Why wouldn’t we do it all at once?

Studies on the identified area have not identified or justified further improvements but it can be evaluated for inclusion in future bond elections.

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2019 GO Bond Election | Public Safety/Facilities

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1. We’ve already got an emergency dispatch center. Why do we need to spend another $11 million?

Since 2007, the dispatch center staff has nearly doubled in size from 19 employees in 2007, to 35 in 2019 (not including the addition of 21 Police officers after the annexation of Greatwood and New Territory housed in the same building). The expanded dispatch center is consistent with a recent assessment by industry experts who recommended the expansion to address the expanded city population. 

The most recent department assessment recommends hiring an additional eight dispatchers to meet the public safety demands of our growing city.  The proposed dispatch center is designed to accommodate the additional needed employee space as well as to expand the city’s emergency operations center (EOC).  The EOC is used to manage city operations during significant emergency events such as hurricane Harvey and our most recent flooding event in May of 2019. 

2. Why are we spending $10 million for a public safety training facility?

The public safety training facility is intended for police and firefighters who provide the public safety services to the residents of the city. Having training facilities within the City limits allows Fire-EMS responders to train on duty while maintaining their ability to respond to emergency calls eliminating the need to go out of the City to train.

3. Does development, including adding new municipal facilities to our community, have a negative impact on the City’s drainage?

No. City ordinance requires any development and construction to result in no adverse impact to surrounding or nearby properties. The drainage impact of the proposed new municipal facilities (Animal Shelter and EOC/Dispatch Building) has been taken into account with the existing drainage system. The proposed new Public Safety Training Facility will include required drainage improvements to avoid any negative impact to surrounding areas.

4. What does public facility rehabilitation mean? Why does it cost $3 million?

Public facilities rehabilitation refers to repairs and renovations to the City’s buildings. As buildings age, key building systems must be repaired or replaced. This project focuses on building envelope repairs and/or roof replacements at locations such as City Hall, the Fire Administration/City Hall Annex building, the Police Department, Fire Stations and the Public Works Service Center. Interior renovations will also be conducted at various Fire Stations, the Fire Administration/City Hall Annex building and the Public Works Service Center. In addition, the City’s fuel system will be expanded to accommodate the City’s fleet of vehicles. The City of Sugar Land manages over 70 buildings across the City. We utilize our Facility Condition Assessment and facility maintenance records to identify projects that need to be completed, the timing associated with the projects and the estimated cost.  

5. How does the City ensure it is maximizing its current resources before making decisions like adding new City buildings?

The City has a Facilities Master Plan that we utilize to guide decision-making processes when considering the utilization of resources and the construction of new buildings. The most recent Facilities Master Plan update was completed in 2014 and focuses on facility requirements that are based on department growth that is generated by population growth or other City Council approved programs.

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Airport

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1. Does the Airport offer commercial airline services?

No. The Sugar Land Regional Airport has no plans now or in the future for commercial service (airlines).

2. What are the airport's hours of operation?

The Sugar Land Regional Airport is a public use facility open 24 hours, seven days a week with services available from 5am to 11pm daily. After hours service is available with advance notice.

3. How far is the airport from Houston landmarks?

Galleria: Approximately 18.1 miles (23 minutes)
Downtown Houston: Approximately 25.2 miles (30 minutes)
Houston Hobby Airport: Approximately 33.9 miles (39 minutes)
Houston Intercontinental Airport: Approximately 44.2 miles (51 minutes)

4. Is there a cost for U.S. Customs services at the airport?

U.S. Customs and Border Protection Service is available at the Sugar Land Regional Airport. Learn more about clearing U.S. customs and associated fees.

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Airport | FAA-Required Public Safety Tree Removal

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1. Why are the trees being removed?

The FAA identified a significant number of obstructions to the safe operation of landing aircraft at Sugar Land Regional Airport and notified us that the obstructions required removal.

2. What is the danger?

The height of the trees has created dangerous conditions for aircraft approaching and/or departing north of the runway.

3. How many trees will be removed?

• 6.7 acres of the 754-acre Cullinan Park will be cleared
• 584 trees  - mostly non-native invasive species - will be removed from the 6.7 acres

4. Why are the trees only now determined to be dangerous?

The 6.7 acres were mostly empty when the city purchased the Airport in 1990. Since then, fast-growing invasive species such as Hackberry and Chinese Tallows have overgrown the area. 

The FAA recently renewed its focus on General Aviation airports and notified us of the safety requirement.

5. How did you determine how many trees must be removed?

The Sugar Land Regional Airport commissioned an engineering firm to complete a ground and aerial survey to quantify tree height and penetration distance into the approach airspace.

6. Why not just prune the trees?

The majority of the trees would die if they were pruned to a safe obstruction height due to the removal of significantly more than 25% of the green foliage. Any that remained would quickly grow back.

7. Will this tree removal project be funded by taxpayers?

No. The project will be funded by Sugar Land Regional Airport. The Airport is a self-supporting business that does not utilize general fund tax dollars.

8. What about the birds and animals you are displacing?

The Sugar Land Regional Airport consulted with arborists and wildlife experts and determined that the least impactful timeframe for migratory and nesting species would allow for the removal this January and February. 

Additionally, Cullinan Park includes 754 acres of dense tree canopy. The remaining 747.3 acres will continue to be home to numerous wildlife species.

9. Why don’t you relocate the trees?

The existing canopy at Cullinan Park is too dense to relocate these trees. Most of the trees are non-native invasive species. Lower growing native grasses and screening shrubs will be planted in place of the removals, which also offer habitat for birds and other wildlife.

10. What will happen to the 6.7 acres after it’s cleared?

The Airport is working with the City of Sugar Land Parks Department and the Cullinan Park Conservancy Board to design something that is compatible with the safe operation of aircraft and that is sustainable, maintainable and meets the intent of both the park and airport.

11. Is this tree removal project part of the other work going on at the park?

No. The tree removals are unrelated to the more than $1.2 million in ongoing improvements at Cullinan Park that will provide the community with additional parking, walking, and jogging opportunities in nature while preserving existing native hardwood trees. However, the cleared property will be replaced with vegetation that complements ongoing park improvements.

12. Who have you been working with on this tree removal project?

In addition to the FAA and an aviation consultant, we have worked closely with the Cullinan Park Conservancy and the certified arborists in our Parks and Recreation Department.

13. Will removing obstructions be a continuous project?

Monitoring the obstructions will be a continuous project. However, the hope is that anything in the future will be more pruning instead of removal.

14. Why not just close the Runway instead?

Sugar Land Regional Airport is an important part of the regional economy, with more than $96 million in economic output each year and more than $69.9 million to the property tax rolls, funding services provided by both Fort Bend County and Fort Bend Independent School District. The Airport has 211 on-site airport-related jobs and is used by more than 100 Fortune 500 companies on a regular basis, and serves the needs of the local general aviation community.

Sugar Land Regional Airport is the primary reliever airport for Houston Hobby Airport (HOU). If aircraft couldn’t land on our Runway, the vast majority of our jet traffic would be routed to Hobby Airport, causing significant congestion and delays to commercial flights.

15. When did the FAA contact the Airport?

In January 2022, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) notified Airport staff of the obstructions on the phone and in writing.

16. Why did the FAA only identify 150 trees when you are removing 584?

The FAA originally identified 150 trees and provided an exhibit of their approximate locations; however, they were using data from a limited ground survey. The Airport conducted a thorough aerial and ground survey to verify and locate each tree and obtain tree information to create a scope of work for a project and set a budget. The survey results revealed far more trees in the same area the FAA identified. After exploring further, it was determined that for each “tree” the FAA identified, there were actually 3-4 trees. This was due to the limited survey and dense Park. We now call the 150 trees “Points of Obstruction.” If you compare the exhibit the FAA provided to the project scope of work, the identical areas the FAA identified as obstructions are the same areas we are removing. The Airport is not unnecessarily removing 434 trees. 

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Citizen Self Service (CSS) | General Questions

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1. I have previously submitted permits, licenses and plan reviews to the city, will I have to register in the new CSS portal?

Yes, in order to be able to start any new application, you will have to register in the new CSS portal.

2. I currently have an active application, license and/or plan review. Will I be able to check its status on the new CSS portal?

No. Any open applications not submitted through the CSS portal will not be available on the portal. To check the status of an open application, please call the Permits office at 281-275-2270 or email permits@sugarlandtx.gov.

3. Will I be able to see previous permits, licenses and plan reviews in the new CSS portal?

Not on June 14, however, some previous records will be available on the CSS portal at a later date. Notifications will be made once the process of moving this information to CSS has started.

4. Can I still drop off documents and/or a USB flash drive at City Hall to start an application?

On June 14, all submittals (except for liquor licensing) will only be accepted online through the CSS portal. No documentation or USB flash drives will be accepted at City Hall or any other location.

5. Can I pay with a credit card?

Yes. You will be able to pay with a credit or debit card for any applications submitted entirely on the new CSS portal.

6. I don’t have a computer with internet access or the know-how to be able to navigate through the CSS portal, how should I handle submittal of permits, licenses, plan reviews, and payments?

Computers with access to the CSS portal will be available for use in the Permits office at City Hall. Permit Technicians will also be available at the computers to assist with any questions.

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Citizen Self Service (CSS) | Using CSS

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1. When applying for a permit in CSS, the address was not located.

When applying for a permit and entering the address, follow these guidelines:

• enter only enter the street number and street name
• type address without any punctuation
• do not enter "Ave", "Blvd", "Dr", "Rd", "St", etc.

Example

This address: 17500 S. Grand Parkway should be entered as 17500 Grand.  

If you still cannot locate the property address, please fill out this form. 

2. How do I apply for a sub-permit (MEPs)?

See the Sub-permit user guide for step by step instructions on how to apply for a sub-permit after the Building Permit is issued.

It is important to note that you CANNOT apply for a sub-permit until the Building Permit (parent permit) has been APPROVED. 

• Sub-Permit Application User Guide

3. How do I see the status of my permit application?

The status can be found on the summary dashboard of the permit. The Workflow shows the current step in the process of your permit application.

4. What does the status of my permit application mean?

Submitted-Online: The application case has been created but has no yet been processed by city staff.

In Review: The application case has been routed for review by City Staff. The application will remain in this status until all reviews and administrative processing have been completed. Refer to the “Reviews” tab within the permit for the anticipated review completion date. If any of the reviews indicate “Requires Resubmit”, comments will be released and the email address(es) on the case will be notified, once all reviews are completed.

Fees Due: The case has an invoiced fee that must be paid in order to move the process forward

Fees Paid: The case has a paid invoice and this status notifies city staff that an action needs to be taken on the record

Required for Resubmittal: The application review has been completed and corrections are required. Whenever a permit is changed to this status, an email is sent to the email address on file, and the marked up document is added to the case under the “Attachments” tab within the case in the CSS portal

Approved, Pending Payment of Permit Fees: The application has been approved and waiting on final permit fees for issuance. After you’ve made the payment, you will be able to apply for trade permits and schedule inspections.

Issued: The permit has been issued and electronic files and final approved plans are available under the “attachments” tab within the permit case in the CSS Portal. 

On Hold: City staff has placed a hold on the permit process

5. Why can’t I see my comments in CSS?

All reviews must be complete before comments are available to download. Once reviews have been completed:

• Click on Attachments.
• Click on the title of the document (a link that will download the marked up plans)

6. Why can’t I see my permit in CSS?

Any permits or cases that were submitted or issued prior to June 14, 2022 and are still active may need to be manually connected to your new CSS account by city staff before you are able to view or interact with them on CSS. This may happen if you used a different email address when creating your CSS account from the one that was previously on file with the City. If you are unable to view records through CSS, please contact 311 or 281-275-2900 for assistance.  

To view your permit, you must be a contact listed on the permit and have an active CSS account.

• How to create a CSS account

7. How do I see the reason my inspection failed in CSS?

Follow these steps:

1. Click on the permit from your active bucket.
2. Click on it again to open the details page.
3. Click inspections in the bottom row of tabs to find the one that did not pass.
4. Click the checklist tab and you will see the reason.

8. I can’t schedule my inspection in CSS; it says the permit is not attached or can’t process due to business prerequisites.

This is typically caused by attempting to schedule an inspection when other inspections are required and must be approved before this inspection.

Please contact 311 or 281-275-2900 for assistance.  

9. When do I make a payment on my permit?

• For permits that require a plan review, a plan check fee is paid for separately prior to the application being routed for review.
• Once the approval is granted, the permit fee is paid for prior to issuing the permit.
• For permits that do not require a building plan review, the permit is paid for once completeness checks are completed.

10. Why can't I see the invoice (and pay it) in CSS?

There a few reasons this can happen:

• You are not listed as a billing contact on the permit.
• The permit fee has not been completed and invoiced. 

Please contact 311 or 281-275-2900 for assistance.  

11. I can see I have a fee to pay, but the system won’t let me add it to my cart.

• Click on dashboard and scroll down to the bottom right-hand section that says “invoices”.
• Click “add to cart” if it shows fees due.

Please contact 311 or 281-275-2900 for assistance.  

12. What is the fee for my permit or plan?

Using the Fee Estimator tool located in the bar at the top of the screen, you can input the information for your project and it will calculate the fees for that type of application.

13. How do I upload a document / revision after I have received my approved permit?

Resubmittal Process User Guide

• you received a notification via email
• your application is in need of corrections
• the City has requested additional documents to be submitted

14. How can I add additional contacts to a permit or case through CSS?

Once you are registered and have been linked to your existing active permit, you have the ability to add additional contacts to your permits in CSS. As long as your additional contacts have already created a CSS account, you have the ability to connect them to the permit yourself. Some examples of additional contacts could be a homeowner, subcontractors, general contractors, project managers, etc. 

• Adding a Contact to a Permit

15. How do I create accounts for a company?

The company should have a single (primary) contact and email address for their business. The contact may or may not have a person’s name on the contact. This primary company contact record will be the general contractor license holder for the company (if applicable). 

Individual accounts will have to be created for sub-contractors, because professional licenses are associated with the account that applied for them. Sub-contractors can be linked to the company account as sub-contact through contact manager on CSS.

For more information on how to add employees to the primary account, see the user guide “How can I link my account to my company’s account”.

16. I get the error “Required certification(s) not found”

This error occurs when you are not registered as a contractor in the new system. First, apply for a contractor registration license pertaining to the permit you’re applying for. For example, a mechanical contractor license if you’re applying for a mechanical permit or a plumbing contractor license if you’re applying for a plumbing permit.

17. I get the error “Invalid Token” when trying to reset password

Request the reset password email but use a different device to go through the process. Once you have reset the password on a different device, you should be able to access CSS with the new password from any device.

If unable to use a different device, contact 311 or 281-275-2900.

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Community Engagement | Sugar Land Leaders

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1. How much does it cost?

It’s free! Yes, you get leadership training, a crash-course in local government, a seat at the table on city priorities, networking and an all-around good time for free. 

2. When are the classes?

The eight sessions will be held Thursdays from 6-8pm, following the schedule below: 

• January 5
• January 12
• February 2
• March 2
• March 9
• April 6
• May 4
• June 1

3. Is this like Sugar Land 101?

Great question! Sugar Land 101 evolved into this program which took the education component one step further to incorporate a leadership track that will give Fellows practical tools to use and apply the knowledge they’ll gain.

4. But … can we still be friends after the program is over?

We’d love that! We will check in with you a couple times a year to see if/how you applied the information and skills you acquired during the program in the community. We’ll also have networking opportunities for the cohort! 

5. How do I apply?

To apply, click here: Sugar Land Leaders Application . Once on the Serve Sugar Land Volunteer portal: 

• Registered Serve Sugar Land volunteers:
  • Start with the box "I already have a username"
  • Enter your username and password
  • Click on Login and Continue 
• For new system users:
  • Register under the "I am new to MyImpactPage.com" box.
  • Enter a username and email
  • Click on Save and Continue

6. When's the deadline to apply?

Applications open November 11 and close 11:59 p.m. Dec. 4 

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Community Engagement | Volunteering

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1. How old do I have to be to volunteer with Serve Sugar Land?

All volunteers must be 14 years of age or older. All volunteers under the age of 18 must also submit a signed parent/guardian permission form in addition to their on line application. More information is available on the volunteer sign up website

2. If my child is under 14 can I volunteer with them?

No unfortunately all volunteers must be 14 yrs. old even if accompanied by a parent or supervising adult.

3. What if I cannot attend my volunteer shift I signed up for?

Please go online to your profile, go to your calendar page and click on the assignment in question and select cancel. Please note some shifts may not be cancelled within 24-48 hours of the event.

4. Do you offer Court Mandated Service hours?

Yes, if you are interested in completing your court mandated service hours at the animal shelter, you must apply and receive approval. You will then have access to available shelter volunteer hours.

5. I need help with my password or email login?

Your email log in is the address you signed up with online (you can change it once you log in) and you may reset your password on the main screen right below the log in, click on “Forgot Password?” If you continue to have issues please send us a message and explain how we can help. Volunteer website

6. Can I bring my friend, sister, etc. to volunteer with me?

No. All volunteers must apply online in advance, once approved they may sign up for volunteer opportunities. You must be registered in advance to volunteer for a specific event; you may not just show up at that event/training. We ask for a specific number of volunteers to ensure a positive experience for all.

7. How do I get a record or a letter of my volunteer hours?

You may log into your online profile and look up and print your hours from the “My Info” and “Hours” screen, you may also send us an email request stating the time period you need a signed letter for. If you have a specific form to be signed you may fax, scan/email, mail or drop it off at City Hall to Attention: Volunteers.

8. What types of volunteer opportunities do you have?

A list of all current opportunities are listed as news items on our volunteer website, check out the news page and calendar for new events and then go to the "sign up for jobs" tab to see ongoing opportunities. Volunteer website

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Convict Lease Memorial

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1. Why did the City enter into an agreement with FBISD?

The City recognizes the historical significance of the discovery and the importance of honoring and preserving these individuals with the utmost dignity, and memorializing the area’s history for future generations.

2. Where is the Old Imperial Prison Farm Cemetery located?

The cemetery is located in Fort Bend County near Highway 6 and US 90-A.

3. Who is buried there now? How many graves, and are they all leased prison labor too?

In 1867, Texas began leasing out its convicts to labor for private companies, and former plantations across the state were transformed into prison farms. The vast majority of the men and women who toiled on them were African-Americans, either the children of slaves or former slaves themselves, who came from states like Arkansas and Louisiana as well as from across Texas.  The graves in the Old Imperial Farm Cemetery are those of the African-Americans who worked in the convict leasing program and the guards. The cemetery has at least 31 graves, with the earliest dated from 1912. Three graves are post-dated the 1930s. The Imperial State Prison Farm was a Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) men's prison. It was one of the first penal institutions owned by the State of Texas and opened in 1909 on the Imperial Sugar plantation. In 1930 the facility was renamed the Central State Prison Farm.

4. Will DNA testing be performed on the individuals? If not, why?

FBISD will determine if and how DNA testing will be performed prior to interment in the Old Imperial Farm Cemetery.  Under the terms of the MOU with FBISD, the City does not assume responsibility for the individuals until they have been reburied in the Old Imperial Farm Cemetery.  Any DNA testing would need to be conducted prior to reinternment.  The City does not support, nor do we feel it would be appropriate, to exhume the individuals for DNA testing after reinterment.

5. Will the City apologize for what happened in its history?

While the convict leasing program was reprehensible, The City of Sugar Land was not incorporated until December 1959, long after the program ended. No inmate labor has ever been used in building the City’s infrastructure, including any of our city halls. Convict labor leasing had been over for several decades when the City of Sugar Land was incorporated and was gradually phased out of the area during the 1910s, when Isaac Kempner and William Eldridge established Sugar Land as a company-owned town.

6. How were the graves discovered and by whom?

Contractors working for FBISD discovered the individuals during construction of a new school on the site.

7. How many graves were discovered?

95 unmarked graves were discovered on the site.

8. Can you describe the individuals found? Were they males? What ages? When do the graves date from?

The individuals are of African-American males ranging in age from 14 to over 70.  The convict leasing system started in 1857 and operated until the early 1900s.

9. Has construction at the site been stopped?

Yes, construction at the site has ceased.

10. What governmental entities are involved?

Numerous entities are involved including the Texas Historical Commission, Fort Bend County, FBISD and the City of Sugar Land.

11. What educational projects do the school district and City plan to implement to pay honor to the finding?

It is our understanding the FBISD plans to initiate educational initiatives regarding the historic discovery.  The City will work with all entities to participate, as appropriate, in efforts to honor those interred in the Old Imperial Farm Cemetery.

12. What was the convict leasing and labor program?

In 1867, Texas began leasing out its convicts to labor for private companies, and former plantations across the state were transformed into prison farms. The vast majority of the men and women who toiled on them were African-Americans, either the children of slaves or former slaves themselves, who came from states like Arkansas and Louisiana as well as from across Texas.  The graves in the Old Imperial Farm Cemetery are those of the African-Americans who worked in the convict leasing program and the guards on the Ellis Plantation’s sugar mill and surrounding sugar cane fields.

13. When did the city acquire the cemetery?

The cemetery was dedicated to the City by LID 17 in October 2006.  Sugar Land City Council approved Resolution No. 12-02 on Feb. 7, 2012.  The resolution authorized the purchase of 63.331 acres of land for park purposes and the purchase of 11.426 acres of land for airport purposes from NNP-TELFAIR, LP per the 2003 Development Agreement.

14. Why did the city acquire the cemetery?

The City of Sugar Land negotiated with Newland Real Estate Group, developer of the Telfair residential community in Fort Bend County, to accept responsibility for the ownership of the cemetery, ensuring this historical property does not disappear through neglect like many others throughout the country. The Imperial Farm Cemetery was declared a Historic Texas Cemetery in 2007 in an application that was made in collaboration with the Fort Bend Historical Commission and approved by the Texas Historical Commission. The City has protected and maintained the prison cemetery property since taking ownership.

15. How has the city protected the cemetery?

The city zoned the cemetery and surrounding property as parkland, a designation that protects and preserves the property.  The city went further and purchased all of the land around the cemetery.  We planned enhancements that were intended to make the cemetery more accessible and highlight its historical importance.

16. Has the city worked with local groups to honor the cemetery’s history?

The city routinely provides cemetery access to the Texas Slave Descendants Society to host events there.

17. Has an archeological survey been performed?

An archeological survey of the property was previously completed by Newland Communities as required by federal law.

18. Have other surveys been performed?

The Fort Bend County Historical Commission is charged with carrying out a continuing survey of the county’s historical buildings, sites, cemeteries, archeological sites, both public and private, and other historical features within the county, and reports to the Fort Bend County Commissioners Court and the Texas Historical Commission. Any new development that could have an impact on a historic site such as this must be vetted through the Fort Bend Historical Commission.  The Texas Historical Commission performed ground-penetration studies of the property in May 2016.

19. Will future surveys be performed?

The city will comply with all required laws prior to any future parkland development surrounding the cemetery.

20. What is the status of parkland development on city-owned property surrounding the cemetery?

The city’s plans for a community park in Telfair were halted by the failed passage of an $18.5 million bond proposition.  Even though the regional park was defeated in the bond election by residents of Sugar Land, that property is still designated for future parkland in our Parks, Recreation Master Plan.  

21. How has Sugar Land worked to preserve prison-related history?

The city is committed to honoring the history of the Old Imperial Farm Cemetery and the surrounding prison operation: 

• Sugar Land maintains the cemetery.
• The City made significant contributions to the Houston Museum of Natural Science in Sugar Land, which was built inside what was once the Main Unit, known as Two Camp, where the prison’s black inmates were held. The museum has included an exhibit documenting the experiences and contributions of African-Americans.
• The City worked with the Fort Bend Historical Commission to submit an application to Texas Historical Commission (THC) for a permanent educational historical marker at the cemetery.  The marker was installed with a ceremonial celebration.
• The Imperial Farm Cemetery was declared a Historic Texas Cemetery in 2007 in an application that was made in collaboration with the Fort Bend Historical Commission and approved by the THC. The City has protected and maintained the prison cemetery property since taking ownership.

22. Does the city have a museum?

The City of Sugar Land created the Sugar Land Heritage Foundation and contributes funding to ensure the preservation of the city’s history.  The Sugar Land Heritage Foundation has been collecting local historical documents for a museum opened in 2018 at the Imperial Refinery site.  This museum will eventually include a diversity of exhibits documenting the experiences and contributions of African-Americans and all others. Community groups are encouraged to support the development of the museum.

23. What is the Convict Leasing and Labor Project (CLLP)? What role will they play in honoring the individuals?

The stated mission of the Convict Leasing and Labor Project is to document the abuses of forced labor in the United States past and present. That includes slavery, convict leasing, and current forced labor arrangements in US prisons. The published goal of CLLP is to “abolish the last vestiges of involuntary servitude in the nation to bring the US into compliance with Article 4 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.”

The stated vision of the CLLP is to provide a public forum on the impact of slavery, convict leasing, and current forced labor arrangements inside US prisons. According to their literature the group envisions:

• Partnering with the City of Sugar Land and Fort Bend Independent School District in properly memorializing the convict lease prisoners whose graves were uncovered at a FBISD construction site in 2018
• Partnering with the City and FBISD in establishing a permanent museum of slavery and convict leasing in Fort Bend County
• Providing educational outreach on the history of slavery, convict leasing, and forced labor
• Networking with prison reform activists and organizations dedicated to stopping ongoing forced labor arrangement in contemporary US prisons 

24. What is the Texas Slave Descendant’s Society?

The Texas Slave Descendant’s Society was founded as a Texas General Business in 2006 by Reginald Moore.  Much of the Society’s activity has been to document the abuses of Texas’ prison labor system.  The Society has worked with the Woodson Research Center at Rice University to research the convict labor system in Fort Bend County.  The organization hosts an annual Labor Day event at the Old Imperial Farm Cemetery and the City routinely hosts TSDS at events at the cemetery.

25. What are the concerns of the National Black United Front?

Representatives from the National Black United Front met with FBISD Superintendent Dr. Charles Dupre to discuss a list of 15 concerns they have regarding the individuals found on FBISD property.  Foremost among their concerns is a request that DNA testing be conducted before the individuals are reinterred.   Other concerns involve:

• Ceasing construction at the site
• Ensure no other buried individuals are located on the site
• Laws and processes regarding removal, testing, etc.
• African-Americans involved in the archeological testing 
• How the individuals will be honored
• Efforts being made to identify direct descendants
• Governmental entities or intergovernmental task force involvement
• Contacts made to Imperial Sugar Company executives and board
• Types of monuments, museums, ceremonies to honor the individuals
• An official apology from appropriate entities
• Funding secured to document this historic finding
• Research into similar finds such as the African Burial Ground in New York

26. What was the recommendation of the Task Force?

After extensive discussion and consideration, the task force formally recommended two options.  The task force’s first option was to re-bury the remains at the original site where they were found. The task force believes this option is the most respectful to the remains because a burial site is considered sacred ground. However, the task force understands that there may be certain legal restrictions that will not allow reburial on school district property and would in that case recommend reburial at the city of Sugar Land’s cemetery.  

27. What did City Council approve?

Sugar Land City Council approved an interlocal agreement with Fort Bend ISD that allows the school district to re-inter remains at the city’s cemetery if they so choose.  City Council’s decision was consistent with the task force’s recommendation, which included two options.

28. Does the interlocal agreement specify a specific location for re-interment?

No. The interlocal agreement allows Fort Bend ISD to consider the city’s cemetery as an option for reburial.

29. Who is responsible for choosing a site for re-interment?

As the property owner where the human remains were found, Fort Bend ISD has the responsibility of evaluating suitable burial locations to re-inter the bodies to present to the court for final approval.

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Engineering

Show All Answers

1. What is CIP?

CIP stands for Capital Improvement Program. The City of Sugar Land’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP) has been developed in order to further our commitment to the citizens of Sugar Land. This program works to meet today's infrastructure needs, as well as those of the future. From work on underground water and sewer lines to more visible projects, such as a minor league baseball stadium or major roadway projects, the 5-year CIP addresses the needs of the city through responsible city government and a comprehensive approach that ensures efficient use of public funds.

2. Where can I find updates on the current CIP projects in the city?

Please refer to the capital improvements projects page to learn more about CIP projects in the city.

3. How can I request a CIP? Is there a form to complete?

Yes, you can find the CIP request form in the capital improvement projects page. Click on the "CIP Request Form" link. Enter the information in the designated fields and hit submit. This request will go directly to the Engineering Department email.

4. What is CRS Community?

CRS is the abbreviation for Community Rating System. The National Flood Insurance Program's (NFIP) Community Rating System (CRS) is a voluntary incentive program that recognizes and encourages community floodplain management activities that exceed the minimum NFIP requirements. As a result, flood insurance premium rates are discounted to reflect the reduced flood risk resulting from the community actions meeting the three goals of the CRS:

• Reduce flood losses
• Facilitate accurate insurance rating
• Promote the awareness of flood insurance.

5. What is DRC?

DRC is the abbreviation for Development Review Committee. The committee reviews all development and infrastructure plans within the City of Sugar Land.

6. What are connection fees?

Utility connection fees, or simply connection fees, are water and wastewater fees that are imposed to certain developments within the city for new infrastructure to be built to support such development. The fees are designed to offset the impact of additional development on the city's infrastructure and service. Areas within the city that are required to pay connection fees are typically Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs) that are not completely developed to date and such MUDs have entered into development agreements with the city that stipulate such connection fees to be paid.

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Engineering | Bike Lane Standards

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1. What standards does the city use when building bike lanes?

The city’s design standards set requirements for bike lanes built within the city’s right of way. These standards meet those set by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).

TxDOT’s standards are based on the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Roadway Design Manual and guidelines. The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) is a standards setting body which publishes specifications, test protocols and guidelines which are used in highway design and construction throughout the United States.

2. How’s does the city’s Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan influence bike lanes standards?

The city’s Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan contains recommended minimum requirements for pedestrian and bicycle facilities (bike lanes, sidewalks, and crosswalks, etc…). Recommendations as outlined on the master plan adhere to applicable TMUTCD, ADA and American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) standards.

3. How do the city’s standards for bike lanes compare to state requirements?

Below is a table comparing Sugar Land to TxDOT's bicycle facilities standards.

City of Sugar Land	Texas Department of Transportation
Bicycle Lane Width
A minimum of five feet (5’) wide.	At least 5 feet wide in a curb and gutter section.
Bicycle Lane Striping
A solid stripe, four inches (4”) wide.	A solid white line (4 to 6-in. or 100 to 150-mm wide).
Buffered Bike Lane Width
A minimum of five to six feet (5’ to 6’) wide, with at least 18-24 inches wide buffer.	Minimum 5 to 7 feet with 2 to 3 feet painted buffer.
Bike Lane and On-Street Parking
Six to seven feet (6 to 7’) wide.	Recommended width of 6 ft. (1.8 m) and a 2-foot wide buffer.
Signage
R3-17 (Texas MUTCD Bicycle Regulatory and Guidance Signage)	R3-17 (Texas MUTCD Bicycle Regulatory and Guidance Signage) minimum size of 24” X 18”.
Shared Use Path
A minimum of ten feet (10’) wide.	The minimum paved width for a two-directional shared use path is 10 ft. (3.0 m).
Sidepaths	Shared Use Path / Sidepaths
A minimum of five feet (10’) wide.	A minimum of 10 feet wide.

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Engineering | Brazos River Erosion Study

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1. Will this impact my home value?

At this time, there is no immediate concern with the Brazos River. However, the amount and rate of erosion will vary any given year as it depends on several factors. A few of these include:

• frequency of rain events
• magnitude and duration of future flooding events
• location of the erosion problem

Lack of planning and action could result in the potential of seeing property values impacted, increases in flood insurance rates, and the inclusion of some areas in the floodplain zone. One of the goals of the study is to develop plans to address the issue and reduce future risk to nearby areas.

2. If I’m not in the flood plain, why should I worry about this?

Areas protected from the Brazos River by levees are not classified as being in the floodplain. As long as the river level is below the top of the levee or the levee is not breached, these areas would not experience flooding from the Brazos River. The ongoing erosion problem could change this.

The amount and rate of erosion will vary any given year as it depends on several factors. A few of these include:

• frequency of rain events
• magnitude and duration of future flooding events
• location of the erosion problem

Lack of planning and action could result in damage to the levee or a negative impact on the level of protection the levees provide. If this happens, there is the potential of seeing property values impacted, increases in flood insurance rates, and the inclusion of some areas in the floodplain zone. One of the goals of the study is to develop plans to address the issue and reduce future risk to nearby areas.

3. What methodology is the City using to study the Brazos River erosion?

The City is using a the Observation Method for Meandering Prediction (OMM) developed by Dr. Jean-Louis Briuad at Texas A&M University. The methodology includes the following:

• observation of historical movement of the meanders of the river
  Historical maps and aerial photographs are used to determine the river movement (migration) with time. The bank migration is measured using the available aerial photos to perform a historical observation of the river bank movement.
• analysis of representative samples of the soil bank
  Soil samples are obtained at different depths along the critical bank locations to perform soil classification and laboratory testing with the objective of determining the erodibility of the soil at each location. Soils would be classified from very erodible category to non-erodible.
• quantification of the erodibility of the soils (EFA tests),
  A soil sample is collected in a thin-walled tubes (Shelby Tubes).  The soil is put through an Erosion Function Apparatus (EFA) apparatus, to determine their erodibility at different velocity. As a controlled flow of water is push thought he apparatus, the soil is extruded from the Shelby tube and the rate of erosion is determined. The Erosion Function Apparatus (EFA) test uses site-specific soil samples acquired via thin-walled tubes (Shelby Tubes) to generate the erosion rate and shear stress which is plotted to create an erosion plot. The information produced by the test can help an engineer accurately determine the depth of scour or level of bank erosion as a function of time.
• determination of the velocity hydrograph for the period of analysis,
  The river’s flow rate is plotted for different time intervals and different storm events. At each study location, and based on the river’s cross section, the corresponding average velocity for each flow is calculated for each time intervals analyzed. A hydrograph (plot showing the rate of flow versus time past a specific point in a river) is prepared showing the velocity versus time at each study location.
• calibration of the observed migration with predicted migration using the TAMU-OMS software
  This mathematical model based software, was developed by TAMU specifically for determination of erosion rate and river bank migration. It predicts the future migration of a river bank in a period of time based on the actual migration for an earlier time period.
• prediction of average future migration using the fitted soil erosion model
  The velocity data and soil type at each location are used as input for the MEANDER software to predict the average future migration for a time frame.
• performing probabilistic prediction to obtain probability of river meander to a certain location.
  A risk analysis is done using the 100 year and 500-year storm frequency hydrograph as the input values at different locations. The MEANDER software determined the probability of the river to reach a certain point in a giving period of time.
  
  

4. Who are the stakeholders and partners of the study?

The stakeholders of the study are:

• Fort Bend County
• TXDOT
• Levee Improvement Districts (LIDs)
• Brazos River Authority

The city is partnering with:

• Greg Wine, PE
  Huitt-Zollars, Inc.
• Dr. Jean-Louis Briaud, PhD, PE, DGE
  University Distinguished Professor and Buchanan Chair Holder
  Zachry Dept. of Civil Engineering, Texas A&M University
  
  
  

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Engineering | Flood Protection and Atlas 14

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1. What is Atlas 14?

The National Weather Service has completed a historical rainfall study, called Atlas 14. This study incorporated approximately 100 years of rainfall data in Texas, which shows that Fort Bend County and the City of Sugar Land are likely to experience an increase in the frequency of intense rainfall events.

2. Why is it necessary to adopt the Atlas 14 rainfall frequency values?

The existing rainfall frequency values were developed in the 1960s and 1970s. Atlas 14 incorporated an additional 4 decades of rainfall data collected by the increased number of rain gages in Texas. In addition, Atlas 14 used improved statistical methods to conduct rainfall frequency analysis. These rainfall frequency values are used for infrastructure design and planning activities under federal, state and local regulations. The values are also used to evaluate flood risks, manage development in floodplains, and delineate floodplain boundaries for FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program.

3. Who is affected by the implementation of Atlas 14?

Areas of new development and re-development located next to Oyster Creek in the floodplain area could see an increment in the minimum required finish floor elevations. Redevelopment of properties located in levee-protected areas may need to build at a higher elevation if the original finish floor elevation did not comply with the minimum elevation requirements of the Levee District engineer.

4. What is coincidental ponding?

As per the Fort Bend Drainage Criteria Manual (7.3.1.1 –Design Criteria Assuming Coincidental Events), the maximum ponding level within the leveed area should not exceed the maximum water surface elevation associated with the 100-yr coincidental flood event computed in designing the internal drainage system of the levee area, including the required minimum freeboard of one foot and the pumping and storage capacity of the leveed system.

The coincidental ponding is determined from the coincidental probability of interior and exterior flooding and the capacity of pumps, drainage channels, and detention using the precipitation requirements of Atlas 14.

5. Are homes built to the new standards going to produce flooding in adjacent properties?

No. The Development Code and the city's design standards require that any new or existing construction collects the stormwater on the property properly and delivers it to the proper city collection point, (i.e. stormwater inlet, stormwater channel or detention pond) without affecting any neighboring properties. This is clearly specified in the flood prevention ordinances adopted by City Council.

6. What is the City doing to mitigate the impact of increased rainfall frequencies?

We are proposing to change the city code. Currently, many of our floodplain regulations are based on the 100-year flood. We are proposing an interim Atlas 14 100-year floodplain regulations until floodplain maps can be redrawn by FEMA in a few years. This interim floodplain is based on the current 500-year floodplain. This change means that property owners and businesses in the interim Atlas 14 100-year floodplain would have new restrictions if they want to develop, expand, remodel or improve their properties.

7. How do I find out what areas of town will be affected?

Sugar Land areas that will be affected by Atlas 14 implementation can be reviewed using the following maps:

• Online Interactive Map
• Printable Map [PDF, 13MB]

8. Is my flood insurance rate going to increase?

The majority of the city will not be impacted by higher insurance rates, however, homeowners that are not in the current 100-year flood zone may be remapped to the flood hazard zone when FEMA updates floodplain maps in a few years. If remapped, affected homeowners might be required to purchase flood insurance.

9. Is my home at a higher risk of flooding?

Atlas 14 shows that the frequency of major storms that can take place in our city is expected to increase. This could mean more street ponding in our area. We do not anticipate homes flooding in our area as a result of Atlas 14 estimates, however, it is recommended that all homeowners and residents purchase flood insurance.

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Engineering | Master Drainage Plan

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1. Why is the plan being updated?

The city council adopted the first Master Drainage Plan in 2007, and several issues now drive the need to update the plan:

• Drainage facility ownership has changed and responsibilities need to be confirmed.
• New development and completed drainage projects will need to be incorporated.
• Improved detention pond maintenance policies are necessary to ensure detention ponds are properly designed, constructed, and maintained.

This plan will also identify drainage capital improvements projects necessary to address flooding concerns.

2. What is ISWMM?

ISMM stands for Integrated Storm Water Management Model, which is a tool that allows the city staff to evaluate drainage system performance for various scenarios (rain events). The City of Sugar Land’s Engineering Department uses ISWMM mainly for emergency preparedness and to identify potential problem areas to come up with potential drainage projects for inclusion in the Capital Improvements Program.

3. How can I participate in this plan?

Citizens are encouraged to contact us with their comments and suggestions at 281-275-2780 or email us.

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Engineering | Pre-Qualification Presentations

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1. How often are Pre-Qualification Presentations offered?

Pre-Qualification Presentations are offered bi-monthly.

2. How long are the Pre-Qualification Presentations?

Each presentation is allocated 45 minutes. Thirty minutes for the presentation and 15 minutes for questions and answers (Q/A).

3. Is there a particular topic to be discussed during the Pre-Qualification’s Presentation?

Presentations should provide an overview of all disciplines (ie: water, wastewater, traffic, roads, drainage, etc.) the company offers or can focus on one specific area of expertise the company wants to make the city aware of.

4. How do we schedule a Pre-Qualification Presentation?

The “Pre-Qualifications Presentation” schedule link is on the City of Sugar Land website with detailed instructions on the process.

5. Are Pre-Qualification Presentations required to do business with the City of Sugar Land?

No, Pre-Qualification Presentations are not required to do business with the City of Sugar Land. However, they are highly recommended because the process allows staff to become familiar with new companies, relevant changes within an existing company structure as well as new disciplines companies have to offer.  Providing a presentation also allows the companies Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) to go into the City’s 2-year library for selection process for projects under $250,000 budget.

6. When do we submit our SOQ?

SOQs can be submitted before or immediately following the Pre-Qualification Presentations. An electronic version ONLY is provided to the Engineering Administrative Coordinator at prequalifications@sugarlandtx.gov

7. Is there a document guideline for SOQs?

Each Request for Qualifications (RFQ)  is based on particular projects (drainage, streets, traffic, etc.) With the SOQ (for pre-qualification submittals only) use the following criteria:

1. If a company wants to provide an overview of all the disciplines they have, they can just submit a general package they would normally submit for an RFQ.
2. If a company wants to provide an overview of discipline-specific areas, they can focus the submittal package on that, however, the presentation can go into all the disciplines they have experience in. We recommend not to focus too much on a specific discipline unless that is the only one the company is looking to be selected for. 

8. What format should be used when submitting an SOQ?

Please submit SOQs in PDF format with a maximum of 15 pages, including: introduction letter, structure of organization, disciplines of expertise and examples of projects. *Please note the City cannot accept SOQs on flash drives due to our IT security policy.

9. How long does each SOQ stay active in the library?

SOQs stay active in the City’s Engineering library for 2 years.

10. What should the company do to extend their SOQ in the library another 2 years?

If the company desires to keep their SOQ in the library an additional 2 years, they can submit an updated SOQ to prequalifications@sugarlandtx.gov.  No additional presentation is necessary unless the following takes place: 1). The company has restructured the organization, 2) The company has added additional services they want to introduce to the City.

11. Who should I contact if I have any questions pertaining to the process?

The company representative should contact the Engineering Department Administrative Coordinator at prequalifications@sugarlandtx.gov for further information or instructions.

12. What City staff attends the prequalification presentations?

Staff members from all divisions of city staff are invited to the meetings (Airport, Public Works, Parks, Engineering, Planning, etc.).

13. Where is the presentation held?

Presentations will now be conducted through an online virtual meeting process.  The platform will be Zoom.  Additional information is provided through the scheduling process on the City’s website, prequalification’s link.

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ENS | Animal Services

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1. What do I need to adopt a dog, a cat, or other pet from the shelter?

If you are considering pet adoption, please stop by the animal shelter during regular business hours or see available pets online and find your forever friend!.

2. Do I need to license and/or register my pet?

At this time the City of Sugar Land does not have a license or registration program. State law does require that all dogs and cats over 4 months of age be current on their rabies vaccination. The city does require the rabies tag be displayed on your pet’s collar.

3. What if I found a deceased animal?

If the animal is on your property, you may remove the animal using gloves or a shovel to avoid direct contact and place the animal in a garbage bag. It is okay to place it in your garbage bin for pickup on your scheduled trash day. If you are unable to do so, you may call a private dead animal removal company. If the animal is in the road, median, or on public property, please contact Animal Services for assistance.

4. Does Animal Services provide traps for nuisance animals and/or wildlife?

No, Sugar Land Animal Services does not service private traps for wildlife.

If you do trap any wildlife, we ask that you please release the animal back into the same area where you trapped it. If you are unable to do so, you may contact a pest control or wildlife control service. Some animals are illegal to transport per the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, including the transportation of raccoons, which is a class C misdemeanor. 

Our traps are live humane traps used for cats running at large only. Traps are available for 10 business days on a first come, first serve basis. Traps may be set from Sunday evening through 3 p.m. Friday and must be shut down for the weekends and holidays. Traps can be picked up at our facility. If you do trap a cat, you must bring the trap with the cat inside to our facility in order for us to impound the cat. If you inadvertently trap wildlife, you would need to release the animal back into the same area where you trapped it, unless it is a raccoon or skunk. If you trap either a raccoon or skunk, please contact Animal Services for removal and release. Please note that the animal will be release animal into the same general vicinity where it was trapped.

Trapping should be a last resort for wildlife!

Nature loves a vacuum. Removing the animal will just provide the opportunity for another to take its place. Many studies have proved that the majority of relocated animals do not survive. The best thing you can do for wildlife is to leave them alone. To solve the problem, the food source, shelter and water need to be removed or you will just get a replacement.

More information:

• Top 10 Ways to Prevent Wildlife Problems
• Coexisting with local wildlife

5. Does the shelter offer veterinary services?

At this time, the City’s animal shelter does not offer any veterinary services to the public. Sugar Land is home to many wonderful veterinarians and practices. We suggest searching the internet, or asking a neighbor for a recommendation. If you are in need of low cost alternatives, you can contact one of the following.

• Petco on Highway 6 by Luv My pet at 281.265.0700
• KAAWS at 281-200-2325
• Greater Good at 281-496-5983
• Houston Humane Society Wellness Clinic at 713-433-6453
  
  

6. What is the shelter's approach to TNR (Trap, Neuter and Release)?

The City does not have a Trap Neuter and Release Program (TNR), and it is currently prohibited by City Ordinance. The City’s Animal Advisory Board recently approved the implementation of a pilot TNR program in a targeted area. The purpose of the pilot program is to determine the feasibility of an expanded program. Upon completion of the program, results will be reviewed with the Animal Advisory Board.

Until such time as the ordinances are modified, residents and animal advocates are advised to remain compliant with City ordinances. Anyone with hands-on experience working with feral cat colonies that is interested in assisting with the pilot program is encouraged to reach out via email at animalservices@sugarlandtx.gov.

7. What is the shelter's position on "No Kill"?

Some No Kill facilities pre-screen what they will take into their shelter. Less desirable animals are not admitted or transferred to other facilities. Sugar Land's animal shelter is tasked with taking in all animals in our jurisdiction including strays, abandoned and injured animals, those with health issues from neglect, transmittable diseases, behavior issues, and aggression.

The "No Kill" Concept

A No Kill shelter is a great concept, but in reality even a No Kill shelter can euthanize 5-10% of its intake and still be considered No Kill. Maddie's Fund, an organization dedicated to increased community lifesaving, shelter medicine education, and pet adoptions across the U.S., defines a No-Kill shelter as “an animal shelter that does not kill healthy or treatable animals even when the shelter is full, reserving euthanasia for unhealthy and untreatable animals.” Maddie’s Fund also has detailed definitions for healthy, treatable, rehabilitatable and manageable animals.

Working Towards Forever Homes

The City’s Animal Shelter does not promote itself as a "no kill" animal shelter but does actively utilize multiple "no kill" strategies to ensure adoptable animals find a forever home. Even though the animal shelter has exceeded its capacity since 2015, the animal shelter does not euthanize for space.  In addition, the City utilizes the following "no kill" strategies to ensure animals are adopted:

• Low-cost spay/neuter services
• Rescue groups
• Foster care (internal program)
• Comprehensive adoption programs
• Pet retention programs
• Medical and behavior programs
• Public Relations/Community Involvement
• Volunteer programs
• Proactive redemptions
• Compassionate Director
  
  

8. What should I do if I find a snake in my house or yard?

Snakes are nomadic and will usually move on very quickly. Most of the snakes in our area are Texas rat snakes which are non-venomous. If the snake is in your yard, wait a while. They are generally passing through. If the snake is in your garage, you can leave the garage door open for a while and wait for the snake to find its own way out. If you have a snake in your home, you will need to contact a pest control or wildlife removal company for assistance.

9. What other agencies are there in the area?

• Fort Bend County Animal Services
  1210 Blume Road
  Rosenberg, TX 77471
  Ph: 281-342-1512
• Rosenberg Animal Control
  1207 Blume Road
  Rosenberg, TX 77471-4071
  Ph: 832-595-3490
• Stafford Animal Control
  2702 S. Main St.
  Stafford, TX 77477-5599
  Ph: 281-261-3950
• Katy Animal Control
  25839 Interstate 10 E
  Katy, TX 77494
  Ph: 281-391-4740
• Missouri City Animal Control
  3849 Cartwright Road
  Missouri City, TX 77459-2443
  Ph: 281-403-8707
• Harris County Animal Service
  Ph: 281-999-3191
• BARC
  3200 Carr St.
  Houston, TX 77026
  Ph: 713-229-7300
• Houston Humane Society
  Ph: 713-433-6421
• Houston SPCA
  Ph: 713-869-7722
• CAPS-Citizens for Animal Protection Society
  Ph: 281-497-0591
• HOPE
  Ph:713-622-4673

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ENS | Code Enforcement

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1. How do I report a code violation?

Violations can be reported in the following ways:

• Phone: 311 or  281-275-2900
• Email: codeenforcement@sugarlandtx.gov

2. What happens when I report a code violation?

Once a suspected code violation has been submitted, code enforcement staff is assigned and an investigation takes place. Due to the different nature of submissions, investigation and resolution times may vary. For example, zoning violations typically require monitoring and collecting of information on the property and usually will take longer to reach a resolution.

Once it is determined that a violation has occurred, city staff will issue a notice of violation to the property owner outlining the necessary corrective action as well as a compliance timeframe. Re-inspections are then conducted to verify compliance.

3. I reported a concern, but I haven’t seen any changes. Why is it taking this long?

Once a violation has been confirmed, an inspector will issue a notice of violation to the appropriate parties, which outlines compliance timeframes. If the property owner does not correct the violation within the required timeframe, staff will begin progressive enforcement processes, which include issuing a final notice and ultimately filing citations with Municipal Court.  

4. How do I get information on violations I reported or other violations in the City?

Limited information regarding a case can be given unless the requestor submits an Open Records Request via the City Secretary’s Office. Please visit the city's open records request portal to learn more.

5. Does the city share code violation information with HOAs?

Code violation information is available to anyone through an open records request as part of the Freedom of Information Act.

The City does maintain close working relationships with HOAs and other community groups and regularly discusses high-level issues occurring within the subdivision.

6. Can I personally hold my neighbors accountable for complying with ordinances?

There are times when a code inspector may determine that nuisance conditions do not meet the threshold for enforcement. Any complainant may file a citizen complaint to the City Prosecutor at Municipal Court. Part of this process includes the submission of evidence to prove the existence of a violation. 

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ENS | Green Waste

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1. Why is green waste being collected separately from garbage and recycling?

Green waste accounts for approximately 40% of the waste and can easily be recycled. The green waste will be taken to a composting facility and recycled into compost or mulch.

2. Can I put bagged green waste in my garbage cart?

We prefer the green waste not go into your garbage cart because it is not recycled. Please place green waste out on your green waste collection day.

3. Can I use a reusable container to store the green waste?

Yes, reusable containers can be used to store and set out green waste for collection. Containers must be removed from the curb by 8 a.m. on the morning following collection.

4. My yard is tended by a lawn care professional. How are they involved in this program?

They must follow the program guidelines and should make every effort to service your lawn prior to your green waste collection day. Green waste cannot be placed on the curb any earlier than 6 p.m. the evening before your collection day.

5. How is green waste recycled if it is in plastic bags?

The plastic bags are opened by the solid waste contractor and only the green waste is recycled.

6. Can I use compostable bags?

Compostable bags are not required but if you choose to use them, both the bag and green waste will be recycled.

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ENS | Short-Term Rentals

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1. What is not considered a short-term rental and would be allowed?

Rental length defines what would be considered a short-term rental. Any property that is leased or rented out in whole or in part (a room, for example) longer than 30 days is not considered a short-term rental and would be allowed.

2. Are short-term rentals prohibited in Sugar Land because the city would not get occupancy tax revenue?

There is a misconception that Sugar Land prohibits short-term rentals because the City would not be able to collect occupancy tax from these rentals. In fact, any owner that is operating a lodging business – including a short term rental – anywhere in the state of Texas is required to collect state hotel occupancy taxes that must be submitted to the State Comptroller.

Additionally, if STRs were allowed in Sugar Land (they are not), they would also be subject to the city’s hotel occupancy tax.

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ENS | Solid Waste & Recycling

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1. How do I report a missed pickup?

Please contact Republic Services at 713-726-7307. If there are repeated issues, notify the City at 3-1-1 or notify the city at 3-1-1 or 281-275-2900.

2. How do I dispose of household hazardous waste and electronics?

Effective January 1, 2021 the City’s Household Hazardous Waste program will no longer be provided as a service.

Residents are encouraged to utilize the Fort Bend County Recycling Center, which is a regional drop-off center for household hazardous waste and electronics recycling for Fort Bend County residents. Their website provides information regarding accepted materials and applicable fees. Please note that the Fort Bend County Recycling Center does not schedule curbside collection of material. 

Please remember to not place these materials in your garbage or recycling carts, as they should be properly disposed of. It is also important to note that household hazardous waste material and electronics placed at the curb with bulky waste will not be collected.

3. Can I get a larger / smaller cart?

Effective January 16, 2023, 35-gallon carts will no longer be offered as an option for every resident. Residents have the option of a 65 or 95-gallon cart for both garbage and recycling. 35-gallon carts will be reserved for those residents on the cart assistance program and/or have an existing 35-gallon cart.

4. Where am I supposed to store the carts?

Carts should be stored in compliance with your HOA deed restrictions. Ideally, the carts should be stored in your garage or behind fencing or brush. The city ordinance does not require the container be stored out of sight, but does require the cart not block or interfere with a sidewalk.

5. Where do I place the carts for pickup?

Carts should be placed at the base of the curb (where curbs exist) with the cart wheels against the curb. The cart must be at the curb with the handle facing away from the street and the lid opening to the street. Carts must be placed at least 3 feet from obstacles such as utility poles, mailboxes, trees, fire hydrants, and parked cars.

6. Why do I need to provide space between my garbage cart, recycling cart, and other items out for collection?

The collection arm on the automated truck requires space so that it will not tip over other containers or damage property. Please keep the containers away from obstacles that may interfere with the collection.

7. What do I do if my cart has been damaged or is missing?

Please contact Republic Services at 713-726-7307 and notify them of the damaged or missing cart. The cart will be repaired or replaced if it is stolen or damaged beyond repair by any reason other than the customer's own neglect or misuse.

8. Do I need to bag my garbage and recycling?

Items in your garbage cart should be bagged to keep the cart clean. Recyclables should be placed directly into the cart without a bag.

9. I have more garbage than can fit in the cart. Can I get an additional cart?

Are you recycling? Recycling materials will give you more room in your garbage cart.

Additional garbage carts are available for an additional monthly fee and can be requested by contacting Republic Services at 713-726-7307 or sugarland@republicservices.com . There is no additional monthly fee for extra recycling carts.

10. How will large items be collected such as furniture and appliances?

A separate collection will be provided for certain large items defined as bulky waste. These items include stoves, refrigerators (freon removed), furniture, and other large household items that cannot be broken down. Bulky waste does not include construction refuse, demolition refuse, or hazardous or electronic wastes. Bulky waste service days are different from garbage and recycling service days.

Visit our bulky waste page for more information.

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ENS | Stormwater Compliance Fee

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1. What is storm water?

Stormwater is surface water that flows across the land into creeks, rivers, and lakes. The storm water in Sugar Land flows to water supply sources like Oyster Creek and the Brazos River. The purpose of the stormwater program is to reduce the pollutants to the maximum extent practicable.

2. How is stormwater connected to drainage?

Drainage is stormwater that does not soak into the ground. It refers to water that falls as rain and runs off the land, and especially off of pavement or structures placed on the land. The city’s drainage system handles this water, and it consists of pipes, inlets, culverts, street gutters, ditches, channels, creeks, lakes, ponds, dams, tunnels and floodwalls. Drainage can be a problem because of flooding, erosion and impacts on water quality. The Stormwater Compliance Fee pays for programs that prevent, mitigate and/or correct these problems.

The drainage system should not be confused with the sanitary sewage system, which takes away water used in homes, businesses and industries for toilets, sinks, showers, washing machines and various types of business processes. The sanitary sewer system is a different system of pipes and infrastructure that lead to a wastewater treatment plant.

3. What is a Stormwater Compliance Fee?

It is the monthly fee to pay for the cost for compliance with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit. This requires communities to reduce stormwater pollution to the maximum extent practicable. The Stormwater Compliance Fee covers the costs of staff, equipment, maintenance of existing infrastructure, regulatory fees, and public education efforts as part of the City of Sugar Land’s Stormwater Management Program.

4. Why is Sugar Land charging a Stormwater Compliance Fee?

The purpose of the fee is to pay for stormwater related activities, which are part of State and Federal environmental protection requirements. Municipalities are required to implement best management practices to reduce stormwater pollution to the maximum extent practicable.

5. Are all properties billed?

Yes. The Stormwater Compliance Fees are billed to all residential and commercial properties located within the city limits with a few specific exemptions.

6. Are there any exemptions from the Stormwater Compliance Fee?

The following groups are exempt from the stormwater fee:

• State property
• County property including Levee Improvement Districts
• Universities
• Schools and School District properties

7. What types of projects will the fee benefit?

The project will identify priorities (public safety, drainage, mobility, infrastructure) identified by our residents through years of feedback, including our Citizen Satisfaction Surveys. 

The current storm water program includes:

• TCEQ MS4 Compliance and Control Measures
• Existing Drainage system Operations and Maintenance
• Storm Inlet Inspection and cleaning
• Mosquito Spraying
• Mosquito trapping and testing
• Drainage ditch flow monitoring equipment and maintenance
• Flood Gauges flood alert system

8. How are Stormwater Compliance Fees calculated?

The Stormwater Compliance Fee considers a property’s impervious area which is the total area covered by materials such as asphalt, concrete, brick, stone and compacted surfaces which reduce infiltration of precipitation. The amount of impervious area on a property directly impacts how much stormwater runs off the property and enters the City’s stormwater and drainage system.

9. What is my Impervious Cover?

Impervious cover is any type of human-made surface that doesn’t absorb rainfall, including:

• Driveways, paved and unpaved
• Parking lots, paved and unpaved
• Patios
• Pools
• Roadways
• Rooftops
• Sidewalks
• Some decks

10. Do you charge renters for Stormwater Compliance?

If you rent a single-family home, you will be charged a Stormwater Compliance Fee. The Stormwater Compliance Fee will show up every month on your Utility Bill.

11. What if I believe my Stormwater Compliance Fee charge is incorrect?

City code provides a process for requesting a review of your fee and for adjusting your fee, if warranted. The process includes an administrative review by city staff. Please call 311 to initiate your request for administrative review.

12. What if my impervious cover changes?

If you make changes to impervious cover on your property, your Stormwater Compliance Fee may change. However, there may be a lag time before changes are reflected in your charge. Changes that may affect your charge include increasing your parking space, building a property addition or adding a deck or shed. Removing impervious cover will reduce your charge.

If you have removed impervious cover, please call 311 to let us know, so we can adjust your charge for you sooner.

13. What are unfunded mandates?

Unfunded mandates pass down standards and regulations from the State and Federal governments but do not come with the necessary appropriations or funding.

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ENS | Stormwater Quality Program

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1. What is stormwater runoff?

Stormwater runoff occurs when precipitation from rain or snowmelt flows over ground. Impervious surfaces like driveways, sidewalks, and streets prevent stormwater from naturally soaking into the ground.

2. Why is stormwater runoff a problem?

Stormwater can pick up debris, chemicals, dirt, and other pollutants and flow into a storm sewer system or directly to a lake, stream, river, wetland, or coastal water. Anything that enters a storm sewer system is discharged untreated into the water bodies we use for swimming, fishing, and providing drinking water.

3. Where does my stormwater go?

Stormwater runoff from Sugar Land flows to Oyster Creek.

In the near future, additional water supplies will be pumped through Oyster Creek from the Brazos River to serve as the primary potable water source for the City of Sugar Land. Drinking water is treated to remove harmful contaminants and make it safe for human consumption. Higher concentrations of contaminants in our stormwater require more treatment to make the water safe for us to drink.

4. Who do I call if I see anyone illegally dumping into the storm drain?

Call the City of Sugar Land's stormwater Hotline at 281-275-2450 to submit an anonymous report if you observe any of the following:

• Illegal dumping of trash and debris along roadways or in creeks
• Leaking automobiles
• Concrete dumped in the street or storm drain
• Paint dumped in storm drain
• Motor oil dumped in storm drain
• Sediment runoff from construction sites
• Yard clippings blown or swept into storm drains
• Sewage or septic tank leaks

5. What can I do to help?

• Be aware of the stormwater pollution problem. Awareness is the first step.
• Dispose of household chemicals and used oil properly.
• Keep pet wastes, leaves and other debris out of storm drains.
• Participate in cleanup activities in your neighborhood.
• Take caution with your use of lawn care products. Follow the directions.
• Maintain your vehicle on a regular basis to prevent leaks.
• Recycle.
• Spread the word about pollution prevention.

6. What type of pollutants are found in stormwater?

Some of the most common contaminants that are found in stormwater are listed below. For more information see the stormwater overview:

• Sediment from eroded soil and construction sites
• Excess nutrients from lawn fertilizers
• Excess organic matter from leaf and grass clippings
• Bacteria and disease causing organisms from pet waste or raw, untreated sewage
• Debris / Trash such as plastic bags, cans, bottles, and cigarette butts
• Household hazardous waste like insecticides, pesticides, paint, solvents, used motor oil, and other auto fluids
• Metal particles deposited on roadways from automobiles

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ENS | Temporary Food Guidelines for Events

Show All Answers

1. Can I still submit a paper application?

Yes, both paper and electronic submittals are acceptable.

2. Can I submit a paper and electronic application for the same event?

No, once a paper or electronic application is submitted, it must be completed using the same submittal type.

3. If I submitted a paper application for my previous event, am I eligible to apply electronically for the next event?

Yes, either method is acceptable for each separate event.

4. What is the timeframe to submit an online application to avoid expedited fee?

Complete application including supporting documents must be submitted at least 5 days before the date of the event.

5. How do I know if my application is received?

The email provided during the application process will receive a notification providing a status update.

6. How do I submit or re-submit documents (Layout of Operations, Food Protection Manager Certificate, etc.)?

The email provided during the application process will receive a request for documents if not submitted during the initial application process, or documents that need correction. Customer must login to profile and upload required attachments.

7. Can I request expedited services online?

Yes, during the application process, it will ask you if expedited services are needed. Please select “yes” in the drop down menu, and the additional fee will be applied to your total amount due.

8. How do I pay for permit?

The email provided during the application process will receive a notification with instructions for remitting payment once application is approved.

9. What are the acceptable payment methods online?

Credit or debit card.

10. How do I know if my permit is approved?

The email provided during the application process will receive a notification with permit attached.

11. What do I do with permit that is attached to email notification?

Print and post in public view on the day(s) of your event. Note: It is against the law to duplicate or revise permit.

12. Will my customer information be saved for a later event?

Yes, your customer profile will be saved for future events. You do not need to create a new customer profile for each application; please use your same login information

13. Can I apply for a Mobile Food Unit and Fixed Food Establishment permit online?

Not at this time; however, reoccurring customers can pay online for these permit types. The permit application process remains unaffected for Mobile Food Units and Fixed Food Establishments until further notice.

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ENS | Textile Recycling Service

Show All Answers

1. How do I schedule a pick-up?

You can schedule a pick-up by

• Submit the online textile recycling request form
• Call Green City Recycler at 832-989-2745

2. Do I need to utilize a certain bag or container?

You can use any bag, box, or container to place the items out for collection.

3. Where do I place materials out for collection?

Items should be placed on your front porch on the scheduled date of service.

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Finance | Purchasing

Show All Answers

1. Are sealed bids and sealed proposals accepted via fax?

No, sealed bids and proposals are not accepted via fax?

2. Does the city have any insurance requirements for service contractors?

The city has established contractor insurance requirements based on service being provided, the associated costs for that service and the risk to the city upon the contractor performing the service.

Certificates of Insurance should be mailed to:
City of Sugar Land - Purchasing Office
P.O. Box 110
Sugar Land, TX 77487-0110

3. How does a company go about getting on the city's bid list?

For expenditures totaling less than $50,000, the city subscribes to the philosophy of decentralized purchasing, whereby most authorized purchases of goods and services are the responsibility of the individual departments. For these items, please contact the individual departments directly. Expenditures for goods and services totaling more than $50,000, unless exempt under state law, are made through Invitation to Bid (ITB), Request for Proposal (RFP), Request for Qualifications (RFQ).

For vendor registration information, click here.

4. How must a person disclose the information required by Chapter 176?

A person doing business or seeking to do business with the City of Sugar Land must file Texas Ethics Commission (TEC) Form CIQ, Conflict of Interest Questionnaire, with the city no later than seven days after the date the person begins contract discussion or negotiations with the city, or submits an application or response to a request for proposals or bids, correspondence, or another writing related to a potential agreement with the city.A person subject to the requirements of Chapter 176 must file an updated questionnaire not later than September 1 of each year in which any of the activities required to be disclosed is pending and the seventh business day after the date anything occurs that would make the questionnaire on file incomplete or inaccurate.

5. Is there a defense to prosecution?

It is a defense to prosecution if the person required to file the questionnaire files it no later than the seventh business day after the date the person receives notice of a violation.

6. Should sales tax be included in bids or quotations?

The city is exempt from sales tax; please do not include it.

7. To what type of contracts does Chapter 176 apply?

The new law applies to all contracts for the sale or purchase or property, goods, or services without qualification as to whether the contract is written, verbal, or implied. Generally, any exchange of property, goods, or services for any other property, goods, services or money, between the City of Sugar Land and a person or business, regardless of whether evidenced by a written contract, invoice, or a receipt, shall be considered a contract for purposes of Chapter 176.

8. What are the consequences of violating Chapter 176?

A person who violates the requirements of Chapter 176 commits a Class C misdemeanor. A Class C misdemeanor is punishable by a fine of up to $500.

9. What information must a person doing business or seeking to do business with the City of Sugar Land disclose?

Chapter 176 requires persons to whom it applies to disclose specified affiliations, business, and financial relationships that such persons may have with covered City of Sugar Land officers.

10. What is Chapter 176 of the Texas Local Government Code?

House Bill 914, passed during the 2005 Texas legislative session, became effective January 1, 2006. The bill added a new Chapter 176 to the Texas Local Government Code. Chapter 176 requires certain local government officers and those doing business or seeking to do business with local governmental entities to publicly disclose specified relationships. The new disclosure requirements apply to municipalities, such as the City of Sugar Land, counties, school districts and certain other local governmental entities.

A complete text of Chapter 176 is available at the Local Government Code website.

11. What local governmental entities are subject to Chapter 176?

Cities, local government corporations, city boards and commissions, city authorities, and almost every other type of political subdivision in Texas.

12. What other information must be disclosed about a person doing business or seeking to do business with the City of Sugar Land under Chapter 176?

In addition to the information provided by a person doing business or seeking to do business with the city, city officers to whom the new law applies are required to file Texas Ethics Commission (TEC) Form CIS, Local Government Officer Conflicts Disclosure Statement, with the city secretary for public viewing:

• When an officer or the officer’s family member has an employment or business relationship that results in taxable income with a person who has contracted with the City of Sugar Land or with whom the City of Sugar Land is considering doing business.
• When an officer or the officer’s family member receives and accepts one or more gifts with an aggregate value of $250 in the preceding 12 months from a person who conducts business or is being considered for doing business with the City of Sugar Land.
• A family member is defined as a person related to another person within the first degree by consanguinity (blood) or affinity (marriage) (e.g., spouse, father, mother, son, daughter, father-in-law, mother-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, etc.)
• Generally, gifts of food, lodging, transportation, or entertainment accepted as a guest, regardless of amount, do not have to be disclosed.

13. What vendors doing business with the City of Sugar Land are subject to Chapter 176?

Any person who contracts or seeks to contract for the sale or purchase or property, goods, or services with the City of Sugar Land. An agent of a person who contracts or seeks to contract for the sale or purchase of property, goods, or services with the City of Sugar Land.

14. Where should sealed bids / sealed proposals be submitted to?

Please submit these items to:

• City of Sugar Land - City Secretary's Office
2700 Town Center Blvd. N., Suite 122
• Sugar Land, Texas 77479

15. With whom should the questionnaire be filed?

The questionnaires will be filed with and maintained by the City Secretary. If a person submits the questionnaire online, it will automatically be posted in a database maintained by the city secretary.

If a person is unable to submit a questionnaire online, paper copies of the questionnaire may generally be submitted to the City Secretary Office. Individual transactions with the city, however, may carry different instructions for submitting the questionnaire.

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Finance | Treasury Management

Show All Answers

1. What is a winter average and how is it determined?

A winter average is established in January and February of each year. Water usage is averaged between the February and March billing periods. That number is used as your average household water usage for wastewater volume charges from the April bill until the following March bill, regardless of the amount of water used. Residential customers have a set charge for wastewater each month. That way, if you use water for your yard, to fill a pool, if you have a leak, or for whatever reason during the year, you’ll have to pay for the water, but won’t pay extra for the wastewater.

2. What is a wastewater cap and how is it determined?

Commercial users will be charged wastewater based on 100% of water usage.

For residential customers, wastewater volume charges for April through the following March are based on the lesser of (1) average monthly water usage as billed in the most recent February and March months; -or- (2) Twelve thousand gallons.

For new residential customers that have not yet established a water usage history (February/March), wastewater volume charges for April through the following March are based on the citywide average monthly usage, currently 6,480 gallons.

3. I’m going out of town. Is it possible to pay extra on my account?

Yes, the payment will be applied to your account and remain there as credit until the new bill is mailed.

4. Is there a fee if I pay with a credit card?

Paying with a credit card will not incur additional fees at this time.

5. Where are the payment drop boxes located?

There are several payment drop boxes located throughout the city. Please visit our payment page for specific locations.

6. How can I pay my bill?

We offer several options to pay your bill. Please visit our payment page for more information.

7. I filled my pool. Does the city adjust my bill?

Because you are protected by the wastewater cap, the city does not make an adjustment on your water bill because you filled your pool. If there is a sudden jump in your water usage, the city checks your meter for leaks.

8. How can I get financial help to pay my bill?

The City has a Utility Assistance Program that is distributed through Fort Bend Social Services. To learn more about possible assistance, email socialservicesinbox@fortbendcounty.gov or you can call 281-403-8050 or 281-238-3502.

9. Why is there a surface water charge on my bill?

A surface water treatment plant was built to meet the Fort Bend Subsidence District’s 2013 mandate of 30% reduction of groundwater use.

10. Is there a way to check your payment history in the online system? How far back does it go?

Yes, there is a payment history option when you are logged in to your online account. It will show the history of payments that have been made through the online portal. We are working to see if we can add the payments made through other payment options to the history in the future. 

11. For the auto-payment, can it be done the day of instead of the week before it's due?

No, our current process is to submit bank draft on a weekly basis which is the Friday before the due date.

12. Is there a payment option for bank draft vs only online bill pay where a check is cut and mailed?

Yes, we do offer bank draft from a checking account. Download the Automatic Payment Plan (APP) Application and follow instructions to submit. 

 

 

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Finance | Treasury Management | Utility Billing

Show All Answers

1. Is this a real bill from the City of Sugar Land?

Yes, this is the new format of your Utility Bill from the City of Sugar Land. 

2. Will I have to re-enroll in auto pay, bank draft, or e-bills?

No, you will not have to make any changes on your end – everything will be transferred to the new system.

3. Will my log-in information change?

Your log-in information remains the same.

4. What additional information will I be able to see when I login?

You will be able to see consumption, billing, and payment history. We are working on providing a downloadable bill coming soon.

5. Now that this is a full sheet of paper, is this going to increase my bill?

The change in bill format will not add any additional costs on your monthly bill.  

6. Why did the City switch from the postcard to a full-size bill?

The City of Sugar Land has implemented a new software system and postcard size bills are no longer an option.  The full-size bills allow us to present more information on your account including consumption history and more detailed breakdown of your bill.

7. When I pay online or via phone, will I have to change how I enter my account number?

Each payment option will provide you with how to enter your account information in order to make your payment.  

8. If I forget to pay my bill, will I receive a reminder?

Yes, you will receive a past due notice in the mail and it will also be a full size sheet of paper.

9. Will I be able to view copies of my bills online now?

We are currently still working on this and should be implementing this option in the near future.

10. Will the time I receive my bill change?

No, you will still receive your bill around the same time as you currently do.

11. Will I have the option to select my due date with this change?

The option to change your current due date is not available.

12. Will my e-bill look different?

Yes, your e-bill will now contain a PDF attachment of your bill.

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Finance | Utility Rates

Show All Answers

1. Why is a water rate increase necessary?

Prior to January 2020 and January 2021, the City has not increased water or wastewater rates since 2011, and surface water rates have not increased since 2014. These rates are the main source of funding for the utility system. If the operating and capital needs of the system exceed the capacity generated by revenues (payments), then rates have to be increased to maintain a financially sound, self-supporting utility system.

The rate increases are necessary to support the City in meeting the 60% groundwater reduction mandate as recommended by the Integrated Water Resources Plan.

2. How are water rates increased?

Each year, a long-range financial forecast for the utility system is prepared using an updated model from the last rate study. This update provides guidance on revenues necessary to support the operating and capital needs of the system moving forward. The model builds in the capital projects identified through the Integrated Water Resources Plan and Capital Improvement Program.

The utility system is operated like a business and supported through charges to users of the system. Revenues are generated by the rates set by City Council.  

When rate increases are necessary, they are recommended through the annual budget, discussed with City Council during budget workshops, and then adopted by City Ordinance.

3. How can I conserve water to lower my bill?

Please visit our water-saving tips page to help control the cost of your water bill.

4. How do Sugar Land’s water rates compare to nearby cities?

In a 2018 survey conducted by the Texas Municipal League (TML), Sugar Land’s residential water and wastewater bills ranked 15% to 20% less than the average bill for 45 cities over 50,000 in population (including costs for mandatory groundwater reduction).

• See the TML Survey Results

5. I’m on a fixed income, do you have a program to get a discount?

The City has a Utility Assistance Program that is distributed through Fort Bend Social Services. To learn more about possible assistance, email socialservicesinbox@fortbendcounty.gov or you can call 281-403-8050 or 281-238-3502.

6. Why is the Integrated Water Resources Plan (IWRP) necessary?

Beginning in 2014, the City had to meet FBSD regulations requiring the City to supply 30-percent of its water demand from alternative (non-groundwater) sources. In 2025, this water supply requirement will increase to 60-percent alternative sources.

The Integrated Water Resources Plan (IWRP) is a comprehensive water supply plan, approved by City Council in 2019. The IWRP examined the City’s available water supplies and infrastructure and developed a clear, strategic, and cost-effective road map that allows the City to meet future water demands and regulations. The recommendations include partial expansion of the City’s Surface Water Treatment Plant, expanding reclaimed water facilities, water conservation programs, implementing advanced metering infrastructure and controlling water loss.

Learn more about the IWRP.

7. Will the utility rate study you mention result in yet another rate increase?

The City has not increased water or wastewater rates since 2011, and surface water rates have not increased since 2014. The Integrated Water Resources Plan identifies substantial capital investment ahead of the mandated 60% reduction in groundwater. Continued capital and operating investment into the system is necessary to ensure the safest and most reliable utility system for our customers. 

The utility rate study will help the City design a rate structure to achieve the revenues needed based on industry best practices, and only recommend the rate increases that are necessary to maintain a self-supporting utility system.  While necessary, future increases will be structured to ensure the financial sustainability of the system around smaller annual increases instead of larger less frequent increases.

8. When will the rate increases take effect?

City Council approved utility rate increases in September of 2020 to be effective January 1, 2021. Residents can expect to see the rate changes on bills issued after that date.

9. What about future rate increases?

The Integrated Water Resources Plan identifies substantial capital investment ahead of the mandated 60% reduction in groundwater. Continued capital and operating investment into the system is necessary to ensure the safest and most reliable utility system for our customers. 

Phases II and III of the utility rate study will be conducted in FY21, and are focused on building policy direction for implementation of the IWRP based on City Council discussion during the FY21 budget process. This will help the City design a rate structure to achieve the revenues needed based on industry best practices, and only recommend the rate increases that are necessary to maintain a self-supporting utility system. While necessary, future increases will be structured to ensure the financial sustainability of the system around smaller annual increases instead of larger less frequent increases.

10. What’s the Integrated Water Resources Plan (IWRP)?

The City is being required to convert 60% of its total water demand to alternative or non-groundwater supplies by 2025. This conversion is an unfunded mandate by the Fort Bend Subsidence District (FBSD) Regulatory Plan.  The City is committed to meeting the mandate in a way that best fits our communities’ vision for the future.

The Integrated Water Resources Plan (IWRP) is a comprehensive water supply plan, approved by City Council in 2019. The IWRP examined the City’s available water supplies and infrastructure and developed a clear, strategic, and cost-effective road map that allows the City to meet future water demands and regulations. The recommendations include partial expansion of the City’s Surface Water Treatment Plant, expanding reclaimed water facilities, water conservation programs, implementing advanced metering infrastructure and controlling water loss.

The costs of these projects will be phased over the next several years.  In order to fund these projects and meet the regulatory requirements, the City will be increasing rates incrementally over the next few years. Please visit the IWRP page.

11. Why is a water rate increase necessary?

These rates are the main source of funding for the utility system. If the operating and capital needs of the system exceed the capacity generated by revenues (payments), then rates have to be increased to maintain a financially sound, self-supporting utility system.

The rate increases are necessary to support the City in meeting the 60% groundwater reduction mandate as recommended by the Integrated Water Resources Plan.

12. Will the utility rate study you mention result in yet another rate increase?

The Integrated Water Resources Plan identifies substantial capital investment ahead of the mandated 60% reduction in groundwater. Continued capital and operating investment into the system is necessary to ensure the safest and most reliable utility system for our customers. 

The utility rate study establishes a rate structure to achieve the revenues needed based on industry best practices, and only recommending rate increases that are necessary to maintain a self-supporting utility system.  While necessary, future increases will be structured to ensure the financial sustainability of the system around smaller annual increases instead of larger less frequent increases.

13. When will the rate increases take effect?

City Council approved utility rate increases in September of 2021 to be effective January 1, 2022. Residents can expect to see the rate changes on bills issued after that date.

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Fire-EMS

Show All Answers

1. How do I request a report or other open records request?

Open Records Requests are processed through the City Secretary's office. Please visit the Office of the City Secretary's website or contact them at 281-275-2730.

2. What is my insurance rating?

The Sugar Land Fire Department improved its ISO rating to two from three. The improved rating could translate into fire insurance savings for residential and commercial customers who live within Sugar Land’s city limits.

3. How do I schedule a fire department inspection?

Please log in to Citizen Self Service and request an inspection. For additional information visit our Fire Marshal Forms page.

4. Is the department currently hiring?

All available employment opportunities are posted on the city’s jobs website.

5. How do I request a free smoke detector/home inspection?

Home Fire-Safety Surveys are available to homes within the Sugar Land Fire Department’s jurisdiction. This service is by appointment.

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Form of Government

Show All Answers

1. What is the council-manager form, which is used in so many local governments?

The council-manager form is the system of local government that combines the strong political leadership of elected officials in the form of a council or other governing body, with the strong managerial experience of an appointed local government manager. The form establishes a representative system where all power is concentrated in the elected council and where the council hires a professionally trained manager to oversee the delivery of public services.

2. Is it a responsive form of government?

In council-manager government, council members are the leaders and policy makers elected to represent various segments of the community and to concentrate on policy issues that are responsive to citizens' needs and wishes. The manager is appointed by council to carry out policy and ensure that the entire community is being served. If the manager is not responsive to the council's wishes, the council has authority to terminate the manager at any time. In that sense, a manager's responsiveness is tested daily.

3. What is the council's function?

The council is the legislative body; its members are the community's decision maker. Power is centralized in the elected council, which approves the budget and determines the tax rate, for example. The council also focuses on the community's goals, major projects, and such long-term considerations as community growth, land use development, capital improvement plans, capital financing, and strategic planing. The council hires a professional manager to carry out the administrative responsibilities and supervises the manager's performance.

4. What is the manager's function?

The manager is hired to serve the council and the community and to bring to the local government the benefits of training and experience in administering local government projects and programs on behalf of the governing body. The manager prepares a budget for the council's consideration; recruits, hires, and supervises the government's staff; serves as the council's chief adviser; and carries out the council's policies. Council members and citizens count on the manager to provide complete and objective information, pros and cons of alternatives, and long-term consequences.

5. What is the cost to the local government of appointing a professional manager?

Local governments have found that overall costs actually have been reduced with competent management. Savings come in the form of reduced operating costs, increased efficiency and productivity, improved revenue collection, and/or the effective use of technology.

6. Does the manager participate in policy determination?

The manager makes policy recommendations to the council, but the council may or may not adopt them and may modify the recommendations. The manager is bound by whatever action the council takes.

7. Where does the mayor fit in?

Mayors in council-manager communities (or chairpersons in counties) are key political leaders and policy developers. In the case of the council, the mayor is responsible for soliciting citizen views in forming these policies and interpreting them to the public. The mayor presides at council meetings, serves as a spokesperson for the community, facilitates communication and understanding between elected and appointed officials, assists the council in setting goals and advocating policy decisions, and serves as a promoter and defender of the community. In addition, the mayor serves as a key representative in intergovernmental relations. The mayor, council, and manager constitute a policy-development and management team.

8. Are all council-manager governments structured the same way?

No. One of its most attractive features is that the council-manager form is adaptable to local conditions and preferences. For example, some communities have councils that are elected at large while other councils are elected by district. Some local governments have mayors who are elected by the voters at large; others are elected by their colleagues on the council.

9. Is this form of government used only in certain kinds of cities?

No. In fact, it is not restricted to cities. It is used by counties too. More than 3,000 local governments operate under this form. They vary greatly in size and characteristics, including independent cities, center cities, suburbs, and counties.

10. How many Americans live in communities that operate under council-manager government?

Over 71 million.

11. Is the form popular in large communities?

Yes. Out of 195 cities with more than 100,000 citizens, 106 use this form of government. Some examples are Phoenix, Arizona; San Diego, California; Dallas, Texas; Cincinnati, Ohio; San Antonio, Texas; Kansas City, Missouri; and Mecklenburg County, North Carolina.

12. How much citizen participation is possible under council-manager government?

Successful examples of citizen participation in the local government service delivery decision-making process are widespread among professionally managed U.S. communities. Because professional local government management offers government of the people, by the people, and for the people, it sets the stage for citizens and their government. Examples range from visioning, in which citizens play a major role in determining the future of their community, to neighborhood service delivery, which involves residents through the development of citizen / government partnerships, to community-oriented local government services. Because political power is concentrated in the entire governing body rather than one elected official, more citizens have an opportunity to be elected to a position in which they have significant influence over the future of their community.

13. What is the history of the council-manager form?

Born out of the turn-of-the-century progressive reform movement, the council-manager system of local government is one of the few original American contributions to political theory. In 1908, Staunton, Virginia, instituted the first position legally defining, by ordinance, the broad authority and responsibility associated with today's professional local government manager. Sumter, South Carolina, was the first city to adopt a charter incorporating the basic principles of council-manager government in 1912. Westmount, Quebec, introduced the form to Canada in 1913. The first large city to adopt the plan was Dayton, Ohio, in 1914. The first counties to adopt it in the 1930s were Arlington County, Virginia, and Durham County and Robeson County, North Carolina.

Since its establishment, the council-manager form has become the most popular form of government in the United States in communities with populations of 5,000 or greater. The form also is popular in Canada, Australia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and West Germany. For more than 80 years, council-manager government has responded to the changing needs of citizens and their communities.

14. How can a community adopt this form of government?

Methods vary, but most communities can adopt council-manager government through a charter, a local ordinance, or a state enabling law. In many cases, adoption must be by vote of the local governing body.

15. How is the manager selected?

The vacancy usually is announced and managers, assistants, and others who are interested apply directly to the council. The council conducts a search for candidates, often by inviting managers in other communities to apply if they are interested.

16. Does the manager have to be a local resident at the time the appointment is made?

No. Local residence should not be required in the appointment of a manager. Managers are professionals who might serve several communities during their careers, bringing extensive experience coordinating public services and applying management techniques to a community.

17. What salary does the manager receive?

Earnings of managers depend on their educational background and experience, the size and complexity of the local governments employing them, and the economic conditions of the regions where communities are located. The city council sets the manager's salary.

18. Can the manager be fired?

Managers serve at the pleasure of the council or governing body. They can be fired by a majority of the council, consistent with local laws, ordinances, or employment agreements they may have with the council. Control is always in the hands of the elected representatives of the people.

19. Where do managers get their prior experience?

Respondents indicated that they had spent an average of 10 years as a local government manager and 63% of managers surveyed by ICMA have a master's degree.

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Human Resources

Show All Answers

1. Can I get help with completing the online application?

The Human Resources department is committed to ensuring that this process is easy and user-friendly. To help applicants, the following resources are available:

• Click on the link title Online Employment Application Guide or Help


• If additional assistance is needed, the Human Resources Department is available during business hours:
  
  Monday - Thursday
  
  
  
  
  • 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
  
  
  
  Friday
  
  
  
  
  • 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  
  
  
  Ph: 281-275-2735

2. How do I find out what jobs are available?

A list of available positions can be viewed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

3. What if I do not have a computer or access to the web?

All Fort Bend County Libraries offer free computer use. Evening and weekend hours are available:

• Sugar Land Branch Library
  550 Eldridge Sugar Land, TX Ph: 281-238-2140
• George Memorial Library< 1001 Golfview Richmond, TX Ph: 281-342-4455
• First Colony Branch Library 2121 Austin Parkway Sugar Land, TX Ph: 281-238-2800

You can also check online for additional locations.

Workforce Solutions can help you complete the online application free of charge. Visit one of the following locations:

• 117 Lane Drive, #7 Rosenberg, TX Ph: 281-344-0279
• 5000 Katy Mills Circle Katy, TX Ph: 281-644-1030
• 12710 Bissonnet Houston, TX Ph: 281-564-2660

Visit Work Solutions for additional locations.

4. What information will I be asked to provide?

You will be asked to provide personal information such as your name, address, phone number, email address, and information pertaining to your education, employment history and experiences, and references. To quickly complete your online application, it is recommended that you gather this information before beginning the online process.

5. Since an email address is required, how do I obtain one?

If you do not already have an email address, free email is available through a number of providers.

6. How do I check the status of my application?

Check your email for status notices. If you are no longer being considered for a position, a notice will be sent to the email address you used on your application. If you are selected for an interview or an offer of employment, you will be contacted, in most cases, by phone.


After you have successfully submitted your online application, you may use the online “Application Status” feature, available after you log in to your account, to check the status of any and all applications submitted.

7. What if I want to submit a resume?

You may either attach or cut and paste a resume into your application. Please note that submitting a resume does not substitute for completing the application form.

8. Who will see my application if I use the online hiring process?

All information is on a secure web server. Only the Human Resources Department and the city Hiring Department (of the position you’re applying for) are authorized to review your application. The City of Sugar Land does not share its database with any other companies or localities.

9. Can I apply for multiple positions at a time?

Yes, once you have completed your online application, you can apply for multiple positions that are currently open.

10. I applied for a position two months ago, but still see it posted, should / can I apply again?

You are only allowed to apply once for each job posting. If the same position is posted again, you must apply again in order to be considered in that next recruitment.

11. I need to make some changes after submitting my application, what do I do? Or how and when can I update my application?

Once your application has been submitted, changes may not be made to that application; however, you may edit, update and/or make changes to your application before submitting it for any future positions.

12. What does the training program for a public safety dispatch position consist of?

The new recruit training program at the Sugar Land Public Safety Dispatch Center was developed to model the best practices set forth by the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials. The 5-phase training program consists of four to six months of a combination of classroom and hands-on training on the dispatch floor. The Recruit must show proficiency in each phase of training in order to be retained as a Certified Public Safety Dispatcher.

Training Phases

• Phase One consists of classroom training where the dispatch recruit learns the basic operations of our dispatch center, our Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) computers, and standards of operation.
  
• In Phase Two the recruit learns the basics of call taking, including taking 9-1-1 emergency calls, as well as other miscellaneous duties that the Public Safety Dispatchers perform on a daily basis.
  
• Once the Recruit demonstrates full understanding of Phase Two, they will be moved to Phase Three where they will train on fire radio operations, along with continuing to practice their call taking skills.
  
• Once the recruit demonstrates proficiency at fire radio operations, he or she will be moved to Phase Four to train on police operations radio.
  
• When the recruit can fully demonstrate the ability to perform on all three console positions, he or she will be moved to Phase Five where they will be observed operating independently in each of the three capacities for a two week period without assistance from a trainer. However, a trainer will be observing the recruit and assessing his or her performance to ensure proficiency in operations.

In addition to successful completion of Sugar Land’s Public Safety Dispatch training program, recruits will attend a 40-hour Basic Telecommunications Course and a Crisis Communications course, following the curriculum developed by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education. At the completion of this training and one year of service as a Public Safety Dispatcher, they will be certified as a Basic Telecommunicator by the State of Texas.

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Human Resources | Risk Management

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1. How do I obtain a claim form?

In order to obtain a claim form, you would need to contact the Risk Management Division and request a claim form.

2. Who will be handling my claim?

Texas Municipal League Intergovernmental Risk Pool (TMLIRP) is the City's insurance carrier. All liability claims are forwarded to TMLIRP by the City of Sugar Land's Risk Management Division. Once your claim has been received, TMLIRP will assign an adjuster to handle your claim. The adjuster will contact you in a few business days.

3. The City of Sugar Land damaged my property, or I fell on City property. What do I do?

You must complete a claim form and return it to the City's Risk Management Division. You should hear from our insurance adjuster within a few business days.

4. I filled out a claim form a month ago, I have not heard from anyone. What do I do?

Once a claim form is received by Risk Management, we will open a claim with our insurance carrier. If you do not hear from our insurance adjuster, please contact us at 281-275-2317.

5. If I pay for repairs, will the City of Sugar Land reimburse me?

No. Do not make repairs or incur other costs under the assumption that City will reimburse you when a claim is filed. Furthermore, you should not have repairs made or services performed and billed to the City. The City may settle a claim with you but it may not pay the costs of all the services that you ordered. It is our goal to address each claim as fairly and promptly as possible as we understand you may have been inconvenienced by this incident.

6. How long does the investigation process take?

Depending on the complexity and the nature of your claim, it may take several days or weeks for the adjuster to conduct the investigation. An investigation may include a visit to the site for inspection and photographs, contact with the City Department or workers involved in the area or incident and follow up with you for additional information or documentation. Please allow a reasonable period of time to investigate and respond to your claim.

7. When will I receive a determination on my claim?

You will receive a written response to your claim from the assigned adjuster. Depending on the complexity and nature of your claim this may take several days or weeks. Should you have any questions or concerns about the results of their investigation or the status of your claim, please address these to the assigned adjuster or you may contact the Risk Management Division.

8. What happens after the investigation is complete?

If your claim is valid and the City is legally obligated to pay, you will receive a letter advising you that your claim has been accepted. At this time the adjuster will advise you of the amount of the settlement and provide you with a Release of Claim Form. You must have your signature notarized and return the original Release to the assigned adjuster. TMLIRP will send your settlement check.

9. What if my claim is denied?

If your claim is denied, you will receive a denial letter with an explanation of the reason(s) your claim was denied. There are situations where the City may not be responsible or obligated to pay your claim. For example, there may be another party responsible for the claim, a contractor may be doing work for the City and the contractor may be obligated to pay the claim.

10. What happens once I accept a settlement offer?

The assigned adjuster will send you a claim acceptance letter with a Release of Claims Form which you must sign before a Notary Public and return the original to the adjuster. It may take several days after the receipt of your properly executed Release for the assigned adjuster to process your settlement check. Once you sign the Release and receive the settlement check your claim is concluded and is final.

11. Does the City use Independent Contractors to perform work and can they be responsible for damage they cause during the contracted work?

Yes, the City often uses Independent Contractors and they may be responsible for damage they cause while performing work on behalf of the City. If an Independent Contractor is responsible for your damage, the assigned adjuster will provide you the name of the Independent Contractor.

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Legal | Redistricting 2023

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1. What is redistricting?

Redistricting is process used to ensure single-member Council districts are substantially equal in population with a maximum deviation no greater than 10 percent between the most populated and least populated council member district.

2. Why is redistricting needed?

Redistricting is triggered by changes in population such as the release of new Census figures, annexation, etc. The 2020 Census triggered the need for a redistricting process.

3. Who requires redistricting?

Federal and state law requires single-member Council districts to be configured so that they are relatively equal in total population according to the 2020 federal census. This is a requirement of Amendments 14 and 15 of the U.S. Constitution, the Voting Rights Act and the Texas Government Code.

4. Does redistricting affect decisions regarding land-use such as apartments?

No.

5. Will redistricting affect school district boundaries?

The redistricting process has absolutely no impact on school district boundaries. Only the city’s single-member Council district will be affected. Again, it’s a requirement of state and Federal law.

6. Will any city services be eliminated, changed or affected in some way?

No.

7. How can I stay updated on the process as it moves forward?

Online - Information on the process, related documents, meeting video, and more will be posted on the city website at www.sugarlandtx.gov/redistricting
  
Public Meetings - Public meetings will be held during the redistricting process to receive public comments on the proposed redistricting plans; meeting dates and times will be published on the city website.
  
 Archived Meeting Video - Redistricting Advisory Committee meetings will be recorded and available to view online on the next business day after the meeting is held.

8. What is a single-member Council district?

The city of Sugar Land is divided into four geographically defined voting districts, each represented by a single elected official.

Information on districts, redistricting, and more.

9. How many single-member Council districts are in Sugar Land?

The city of Sugar Land has four single-member districts. City Council is comprised of a mayor and two at-large positions elected by the entire city and four single-member positions elected by residents who live in each district. To determine your current district, use the following links.

• Interactive City Map

10. Will current Council members lose their seats on Council due to redistricting?

No. Although it is recognized that existing districts will have to be altered to reflect new population distribution, any districting plan should, to the extent possible, will be based on existing district.

11. Who will create the new districts?

Sugar Land City Council appointed a citizen-led Redistricting Advisory Committee charged with making a recommendation on a redistricting plan to the City Council for their consideration. Ultimately, City Council will decide which redistricting plan is approved.

12. Who approves the new districts?

The citizen-led committee will make a recommendation to City Council for their approval.

13. How is the public included during the process?

Public meetings will be held during the redistricting process to receive public comments on proposed redistricting plans. The public will be able to submit other redistricting plans for council consideration on August 15, 2023.  

The City of Sugar Land encourages you to learn more about this process and stay engaged through our redistricting page. All Redistricting Advisory Committee meetings are open to the public.

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Municipal Court

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1. Do I have to appear in court to take care of my ticket?

Most tickets can be handled without a court appearance.  You have options!

For a speeding ticket:

If you have not taken a defensive driving course in the last 12 months and if you were not speeding more than 25 miles over the speed limit, you may have your ticket dismissed by taking a defensive driving class.  You must request permission from the court before you sign up for the course.  Please refer to the Driving Safety Course section of this website under General Court Information.

For driving without a valid license:

If you received a ticket for driving without a license, you may request a deferred disposition or probation to keep your ticket off your driving record.  The instructions for requesting a Deferred Disposition can be found in the Fines, Forms, and Payments section of this website.

For a failure to present a driver’s license:

If you received a ticket for Failure to present a driver’s license on demand, but your license was valid at the time, you can have your ticket dismissed by presenting your license and paying a court administrative fee of $10 at the lobby windows.  No courtroom appearance is necessary.

For defective equipment:

If you received a defective equipment violation ticket and you have repaired the defect, you can have your ticket dismissed by paying a court administrative fee of $20 at the lobby windows.  No courtroom appearance is necessary.

For an expired registration:

If you received a ticket for an expired registration sticker, but the registration has been renewed at the county tax office and the sticker was not expired for longer than 60 days, you can have your ticket dismissed.  You will need to present proof that you have paid your late fees to the county tax office.  You can take care of this transaction at the court lobby windows by paying a $20 court administrative fee and presenting your receipt from the tax office.  No courtroom appearance is necessary.

For an insurance ticket

If you received a ticket for Failure to Maintain Financial Responsibility, you may request a deferred disposition or probation to keep your ticket off your driving record.  The instructions to request a Deferred Disposition can be found in the Fines, Forms, and Payments section of this website.   If you received a ticket for Failure to Maintain Financial Responsibility, but you were insured at the time, there is no fee to have your ticket dismissed.  You will need to present a copy of your insurance card with your name listed as an insured driver at the lobby windows.  You will be required to complete a motion to dismiss which will be provided for you.  No courtroom appearance is necessary.

To request additional Time to Pay

You need to complete a payment plan form.  A complete explanation of payment plans offered by the court and all the required forms can be found on our website in the Payment Plans & Extension-to-Pay tab under Fines, Forms, and Payments.   

NOTE:  Other transactions can be made at the court lobby windows.  You may be able to keep your ticket from becoming a conviction on your driving record even if your particular violation is not mentioned here.  

If you have more than one citation or if the time is past the appearance date on your ticket, you may have to make an appearance in court.  When you receive a citation from the City of Sugar Land Police, you are given a date to appear.  The court date in listed under the issue date.  On handwritten tickets it is near the bottom of the ticket.  

2. How do I request the Driver's Safety course?

At the time of the traffic stop, you may have received a Taking Care of Your Ticket brochure. The brochure contains information and a court form for requesting the driving safety course. Refer to the Driving Safety Course page for more information. Driving Safety Course

3. How can I get my ticket dismissed?

Most tickets can be handled without a court appearance.  You have options! You may be eligible to have your ticket dismissed or qualify for a program to keep your ticket off your driving record.  Refer to the Dismissals page for more information.

4. Can I pay my red light camera ticket in court?

On June 1, 2019, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signed a law banning red-light traffic cameras in the State of Texas. You no longer have to pay for red light camera tickets in Sugar Land, Texas.

5. How do I get excused from jury service?

You may file claim for exemption from jury service online, or fax or email request to be excused from jury service. Please refer to the juror exemption form. A court clerk may also assist you by calling 281-275-2390.

6. How do I take care of my warrant?

Refer to the Warrant Information page for more information.

7. How do I qualify for deferred disposition (probation)?

Refer to the Deferred Disposition page for more information.

8. When can I see or talk to the Judge or Prosecutor?

The Judge and the Prosecutor are only available during court settings. You may check in the court window Tuesday through Friday prior to 9:00 AM to be placed on the court docket for seeing the Prosecutor and appearing before the Judge.

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Parks & Recreation

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1. How can I reserve a park pavilion or facility?

Facility reservations must be made in-person at the Imperial Park Recreation Center:

234 Matlage Way
Sugar Land, TX 7778

Reservation hours are: Monday to Friday 8am to 7pm and Saturday 8am to 4pm. 
The deposit is due when you make your reservation and rental fees are due 10 days before your event.

Online reservation requests are now available for pavilions at the following parks: City Park, Eldridge Park, First Colony Park, Lost Creek Park, Sugar Land Memorial Park.

For online reservation requests or to check availability, visit https://www.sugarlandtx.gov/ParksRegister

2. Where can I reserve and/or check availability for a field?

Send our team an email to athletics@sugarlandtx.gov  that includes:

• Field location (Park and field number [if known])
• Date/Time

3. How do I register for a class and/or where is it located?

A wide variety of classes and activities take place at the Imperial Park Recreation Center and the T.E. Harman Center for senior programs. Contact us at 281-275-2885 for more information, or to check current program offerings, visit www.SugarLandTX.gov/ParksRegister. 

4. Where is the T.E. Harman Center for senior adults located and what are the hours?

The T.E. Harman Center is located at 226 Matlage Way, 77478. Operating hours are Monday-Thursday from 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. 

For more information about activities and programs, visit the T.E. Harman Center's webpage.

5. Who handles Cullinan Park?

The City of Sugar Land annexed Cullinan Park, which spans 754 acres in January 2016. Since then, Cullinan Park has become a regional destination for birding, wildlife viewing and more. 

The City of Sugar Land oversees and maintains Cullinan Park, while the Cullinan Park Conservancy is responsible for the promotion, enhancement, and protection of Cullinan Park.

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Parks & Recreation | Imperial Park Recreation Center

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1. How can I make a reservation for a hall or pavilion?

Park reservations are made in-person at the Imperial Park Recreation Center. Deposits are due at the time of facility reservation, and rental fees are due 10 days before your event. For any questions, please call us at 281-275-2885.

2. Do you offer family memberships?

Currently membership at the IPRC is offered on an individual basis only. For current membership rates, visit www.SugarLandTX.gov/IPRC

3. How can I register for programs?

Program registration can be made in-person at the Imperial Park Recreation Center or online at www.SugarLandTX.gov/ParksRegister. You can also call with any questions: 281-275-2885

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Parks & Recreation | T.E. Harman Senior Center

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1. How do I know if I am considered a resident or a non-resident?

You are a resident if you pay your water bill to the City of Sugar Land. If you pay your water bill to a MUD(Municipal Utility District) or any other entity then you are considered a non-resident.

2. When am I eligible to register for classes and activities?

Residents are eligible to register for classes and activities the first business Monday of each month for the following month’s classes / activities. Non-residents are eligible to register for classes the second business Monday of each month for the following month’s classes / activities.

3. I have registered once, do I have to register each month?

Yes, you must re-register for classes each month if you would like to continue to participate in those classes.

4. I can’t make it for my registration date, how do I register for classes?

You may visit the T.E. Harman Center in person to register for classes, or you may call or email your requested activities before 8:45 a.m. on registration days. Members may also register for classes online at www.SugarLandTX.gov/ParksRegister.

5. Are citizens under the age of 50 allowed to participate in T.E. Harman Center activities?

Programs at the T.E. Harman Center are reserved for seniors 50 years of age and older.

6. Can I bring a guest to the Senior Center?

T.E. Harman Center membership allows members to bring a guest three times per year.

7. I am not a member of the T.E. Harman Center, but I would like to attend some of your trips. Is this possible?

Yes, we do allow non-members to attend trips as a guest of a member. Members are allowed to bring a guest to the center three times per year. You can use a member's guest pass to attend a trip.

8. Can I get a membership for a couple of weeks?

At this time, we do not offer weekly or monthly memberships. All T.E. Harman Center memberships are offered on an annual basis.

9. Do I have to register for all activities I would like to participate in or only the exercise classes?

Members must register for all classes and activities that they would like to participate in. 

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Permits & Inspections| General

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1. When is permit required?

A person, firm, or corporation shall not erect, construct, enlarge, add to, alter, repair, replace, improve, remove, install convert, equip, use occupy or maintain a structure or building service equipment without first obtaining a permit.

2. Does a contractor need to be licensed to do work on my home?

Any plumbing or mechanical contractor doing work on an individual’s home is required by the Texas Plumbing License Law or the Texas Mechanical License Law to have a license to work on that home. This license is required even if the scope of the work doesn’t require a permit and inspection. Electrical work must be performed by a licensed electrician. A license is not required for general building work on your own property.

3. What if a contractor does not get a permit?

When a contractor is discovered working without a permit, a building inspector will issue a stop work order. In these cases, some work may have to be uncovered for inspection and redone. The property owner is ultimately responsible for the work performed on his property.

4. How long is my building permit good for?

Building permits are good for 180 days. The permit expires when the work has not begun in this time period.

5. How do I arrange a building inspection?

Once your building permit is issued, you will be given paperwork explaining how to call into the automated inspection request system and request an inspection. If the permit was issued for a gas leak repair or emergency electrical service repair, we will inform you on whom to notify for after the repair is completed.

6. Where can I find the city building codes?

The City of Sugar Land building codes are available online in the city ordinances. The online version is provided as a convenience.

7. Does my permit need to be posted?

Yes, your permit should be prominently posted within the property / structure.

8. Why does the City of Sugar Land require building permits?

The City of Sugar Land and all other cities across the country use the building permit process to verify that construction or development will comply with building codes and zoning ordinances. The building codes and zoning ordinances are adopted by the City Council and become the law of the city. The development projects are also inspected to insure that compliance.

9. What about inspections, when are they required?

Basically, inspectors are required before any part of the construction may be covered up and at the completion of the project. Work such as plumbing, electrical, mechanical work, framing, and insulation must be inspected before concealing.

10. If I have an existing electric or gas water heater in or accessible from the garage, must I raise it 18 inches above the floor level when it is replaced?

The codes have changed to prevent accidents. The water heater thermostat energizes the heating element when the water temperature within the tank falls below a certain selected level. At the instant the thermostat activates, a spark results. This spark is a source of ignition for flammable or combustible vapors that may have accumulated along the garage floor. The 18-inch elevation is intended to keep ignition sources above these vapors that are heavier than air and settle to the garage floor.

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Planning | Activity Centers

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1. Why do we need to redevelop/reinvest?

Every city has a lifecycle and we have reached the peak of ours now. With only 4% of developable land left until we are completely built out, we know we are at the decision point where we can either be aspirational or go into decline. Doing nothing is not an option -- we can change or time will make changes for us. 

2. What does Community Reinvestment mean?

Reinvestment means putting money into an existing asset (home, retail center, etc.) to bring the property up to new standards or trends in commercial and residential development. The City is exploring pilot programs that incentivize homeowners and landlords to invest in their properties and updating our development rules and services to encourage reinvestment across the city.

3. What does redevelopment mean?

Simply, redevelopment is when an existing building and/or parking areas are demolished and a new development is built on the same site. It usually involves building more on the site than was previously there, creating density. Redevelopment can also occur when a current building is repurposed into a new use or to align with new market trends.

4. Why can't we annex more land to grow the city?

The City has limited land in its extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ), which is the area immediately outside of Sugar Land's corporate limits. All land surrounding the City is either already incorporated or in another jurisdiction's ETJ.

5. I don't want apartments in Sugar Land. What other types of housing will be allowed with this redevelopment plan?

As described in the 2018 Land Use Plan, any new apartments built in Sugar Land will be required to be multi-story, urban-style apartments that activate the streets. Standalone, garden-style apartments are not supported by the Land Use Plan. Additional housing options that will be considered include townhomes, condos, duplexes, accessory dwelling units, and live-work units that support local entrepreneurship and employment. These new types of housing are an essential first step to providing pathways to homeownership and drive demand for existing and new dining, retail, amenities, and attractions.

6. What are Regional Activity Centers (RAC)?

• Regional Activity Centers (RAC) are new or redeveloped commercial areas that will serve as destinations for both the city and region. These areas will be developed to vertically integrate various land uses such as commercial and retail buildings, educational and health care facilities, civic buildings, and a residential component. It's important the uses complement each other and the highest and best use of the land. Other qualities found in a RAC are varied building heights from low-rise to mid-ride, structured parking, street-level stores, pedestrian and bicycle friendly, and public spaces that can be used at various times of the day for various purposes.
• The City of Sugar Land's Land Use Plan designates these five (5) locations as RAC:
  • Sugar Land Town Center
  • Lake Pointe
  • University Boulevard
  • Imperial
  • Sugar Creek Triangle

7. If we develop regional activity centers, how will the City ensure business occupancy rates stay up?

The City cannot guarantee specific occupancy rates as retail is market driven by consumer demand. One of the key ingredients in a mixed-use development is housing which supports retail tenants. To support local retail, we encourage you to shop local instead of online purchases.

8. When you say more people, how many more people do we need?

There is not a specific number of people needed. However, more people and housing are necessary for new commercial development and amenities to be supported.  This will be driven by the market on a development-by-development basis.  Accounting for annexation, the City’s population has only grown 1.4% from 2015-2019 (City’s Workforce and Targeted Industry Study).

The most important thing is to continue to grow and attract new residents by providing options for downsizing and pathways to homeownership for the younger generations.  

 

9. What is the City doing to ensure infrastructure can support any new developments?

Sugar Land is committed to ensuring our infrastructure can adequately support additional development. Periodic updates to our master plans through long range planning helps the City anticipate population growth in key areas. When additional utility extensions or transportation improvements are needed, the City proactively allocates funding through the annual capital improvement program (CIP). Additionally, certain site improvements are paid for by the property owner/developer, which helps alleviate the financial burden to Sugar Land’s operating budget.  

10. What is the Land Use Plan?

The Land Use Plan is a guiding document that outlines policy direction and guidance for development, redevelopment and land use decisions. The plan is not a regulating document. The Land Use Plan furthers the Comprehensive Plan’s overall vision and sets out a specific land use vision and goals for the city and outlines actions that will achieve those goals to ensure Sugar Land continues to thrive.

11. What is mixed-use zoning and what does the Land Use Plan say about it?

Mixed-use zoning brings together residential and nonresidential uses in walkable, pedestrian districts. Examples of mixed-use places include office, residential, retail, and restaurants. 

The Land Use Plan states that mixed-use development is a critical factor in maintaining the City's ability to continue to provide first-rate city services at one of the lowest property tax rates in the state. Continued commercial development is vitally important to Sugar Land from both an economic perspective as well as the civic services and amenities it provides to residents and visitors. The success of Sugar Land Town Square is a model for future walkable, mixed-use Regional and Neighborhood Activity Centers.

12. Is there public support for mixed-use zoning?

Yes. When we updated the Land Use Plan (a component of the City’s Comprehensive Plan, which serves as a guide to how the City should develop and redevelop and evolve over time to reflect changing conditions) in 2018, we heard through that process that residents wanted mixed-use type areas in our community. They wanted not just a mix of uses, but they want us to create places where people can gather outside of work, school and their homes.   

13. Why are we going through an update of the development code?

The City of Sugar Land is actively working on enhancing our community's quality of life through the implementation of new mixed-use zoning regulations. Amending the development code to allow for mixed-use areas within the City is an action step included in the Land Use Plan to accomplish this goal. These regulations are a direct response to the long-term shifts in market demands and demographic trends, as well as the desires expressed by our residents during the Land Use Plan update in 2018. These regulations aim to create vibrant Activity Centers that integrate offices, housing, retail, entertainment, and civic uses, providing spaces where people can gather outside of work, school, and their homes. With the introduction of two new mixed-use zoning districts, we strive to bridge the gap between residential and commercial land uses. 

14. Are you looking to change the entire development code?

No. These proposed changes are only meant to create mixed-use Activity Centers as identified in the 2018 Land Use Plan approved by City Council. 

15. How many activity centers are there and where are they located?

The Land Use Plan identifies:  

• Five (5) Regional Activity Centers (RACs) strategically located along regional highways to ensure intense commercial, retail and other high-traffic destinations are contained within designated areas and separated from single-family residential neighborhoods. Each RAC is intended to have its own unique identity providing different amenities for both residents and employees for entertainment, dining and shopping 
• Nine (9) Neighborhood Activity Centers (NACs) located on arterial streets, which are envisioned to be small mixed-use centers that act as a “Main Street” for nearby neighborhoods. These will largely be created through the redevelopment of older commercial areas and will minimize impacts on adjacent single-family neighborhoods by providing buffers and smooth transitions

16. What does the mixed-use zoning code aim to do?

The goal of the mixed-use zoning code and the proposed mixed-use districts is threefold. The mixed-use zoning code aims to:  

1. Create Vibrant Activity Centers: We are committed to developing Activity Centers that blend offices, housing, retail, entertainment, and civic uses, promoting a dynamic and engaging community environment - as envisioned by the Land Use Plan. 
2. Integrate Residential and Commercial Uses: The introduction of two new mixed-use zoning districts will enable the integration of residential and commercial land uses, fostering a cohesive environment where both can coexist and complement each other. 
3. Follow a Transparent and Fair Process: Creating these two mixed-use zoning districts does not automatically place this zoning on any property – that requires rezoning. All rezoning requests must go through a transparent, public, process that involves Planning & Zoning, and City Council approval.  Once the mixed-use zoning is in place, staff ensures development applications are compliant and achieve City Council’s vision. 

17. How long will this process take?

We have been hard at work since November 2020, with our zoning experts at Clarion Associates to research the best way to implement activity centers as discussed in the 2018 Land Use Plan. Writing the mixed-use zoning code, including researching comparison cities, has taken a little over a year. We anticipate presenting a final mixed-use zoning code to City Council in Fall 2023.   

18. We have rules for a reason. Why do these need to be changed now?

Much like a vehicle that needs an oil change, our zoning codes need regular maintenance to make good things happen. City Council’s #1 priority is redevelopment because we are a community at a crossroads where we can either proactively blaze new trails into the future or lose our competitive advantage. While our zoning regulations control certain aspects of development and generally perform well, we also recognize they can also be too controlling in other ways. Without updating our zoning standards to keep up with the market and real estate trends and with surrounding communities, our community loses the competitive advantage we’ve historically enjoyed.  

19. How large are activity centers compared to the rest of Sugar Land?

In terms of acreage, activity centers only comprise less than 7% of the City’s land. 

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Planning | Imperial Char House Project

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1. What is the project?

To start, the developer is proposing redevelopment of the Imperial Char House into an office building with associated food, beverage and retail. It is proposed that a portion of the Char House will house The Cannon, an innovation space that provides numerous workspace options, programming, content, and events, with access to sponsors, mentors, accelerators, incubators, and venture capital. The remainder of the 40-acre proposed project, which includes all currently existing historical structures, is a mixed-use walkable area including retail, food and beverage, office, event space, residential (including multi-family), with extensive outdoor green space. The top priority of the project is preservation of historic buildings as well as an emphasis on creating a vibrant, energetic destination for the community.

For more information on the inspiration for this project, please watch the video from the Town Halls here: https://sugar-scoop.com/2022/12/19/couldnt-make-it-to-the-imperial-char-house-town-hall-watch-both-sessions-here/

2. What has been completed to date?

PUMA has purchase agreements for approximately 40 acres of land in and around the former Imperial Sugar site, including the Char House.  PUMA does not yet own the property.  To date, the City Council has approved the following: 

• A $5 million reimbursement agreement for pre-development and construction costs associated with the redevelopment of the Char House 
• A lease agreement for future office space in the Char House.  As a creditworthy tenant, this lease agreement will help PUMA secure other financing for the Char House redevelopment. 
• Amendment to the Land Use Plan to increase # of multi-family units to 1,200 in the 201-acre Imperial Regional Activity Center. 
• Approved General Development Plan – a general land use plan including preservation of historic buildings, and a list of proposed land uses, including 660 multi-family.

3. Is this a city-led project? Why has the City provided financial support?

This project is a joint effort between the City and PUMA Development for two main reasons: 1) Redevelopment of the former Imperial Sugar site is one of City Council’s top priorities and 2) due to the complexities of this site any development that meets this vision will require financial support to be successful. 

Redevelopment of the former Imperial Sugar site is one of City Council's top priorities as it is extremely important to our residents and at the center of preserving the city’s heritage. Projects like this are expensive and complex. The City and developer will be maximizing the use of a variety of financial tools, including the City’s Economic Development Corporations, funded by a quarter-cent sales tax restricted for economic development purposes, state historical tax credits, General Fund, and private financing to meet the vision for the site.

To date, the following has been approved:

• A $5 million reimbursement agreement for pre-construction and construction costs of the Char House
• A lease agreement for a portion of the redeveloped Char House (when completed) to assist PUMA in securing private financing for the remainder of the project.

4. Why is this redevelopment happening now?

The City has tried for many years to secure a private partner and financially viable project for this site.  PUMA’s proposed project is centered on redeveloping the Char House first, which is critically important to the City.

5. How has the public been engaged in this process?

In December 2022, the City announced its partnership with PUMA Development to propose the redevelopment of the Imperial Char House. The City made a conscious effort to engage with the community. Two town halls were hosted on December 8 and 15, 2022 to hear clear information straight from the developer regarding the project and to gain public input on the proposal. You can watch both town halls here: https://sugar-scoop.com/2022/12/19/couldnt-make-it-to-the-imperial-char-house-town-hall-watch-both-sessions-here/ 

PUMA proposes to make the Char House improvements as part of its Phase 1 process, but the actual timing and sequencing of the project phases will be controlled by City Council through future zoning approvals. We recommend signing up for our email listserv to stay up-to-date on all the latest updates: www.sugarlandtx.gov/ImperialHistoricDistrict 

6. What are the next steps?

Currently pre-development work, such as engineering, architectural, traffic analysis and other technical studies are currently underway. PUMA is also working on securing other financing sources, including historic tax credits. The next step in the zoning process is for PUMA to submit a Final Development Plan application for the first phase of its project, which will include the redevelopment and reuse of the Char House and its surrounding area. The Final Development Plan will require public hearings at Planning & Zoning and City Council.

PUMA has contacted Urbano Architects to begin focusing on the preservation of the Char House. This will include work that needs to be done to ensure structural integrity of the building and upgrades to bring the structure into compliance with the current International Building Codes (IBC). Urbano will be obtaining building permits to complete this scope of work limited to the Char House preservation efforts.

7. Why was an amendment to the Land Use Plan necessary for this project? Does this mean it can change at any time?

The Land Use Plan designated 526 multi-family units for the Imperial Regional Activity Center (RAC).  To make this project financially feasible an additional 660 units are needed in the Imperial RAC, therefore triggering a Land Use Plan amendment.  Previous plans, which included fewer multi-family units, were not financially feasible and therefore did not come to fruition.  

The Land Use Plan is a guiding document that should be read and understood holistically, not as a mandate. The Plan is not a regulating document. The Land Use Plan states that periodic changes may be necessary to respond to demographic shifts and market trend and those changes should include public input and reviewed by the Planning & Zoning Commission and City Council. 

8. What did City Council's vote on an amendment to the Land Use Plan and General Development plan mean?

Both the Land Use Plan Amendment and approval of the General Development Plan were the first step of a 2-step zoning process to provide a framework of development regulations and land uses, including multi-family, that can be requested in future zoning applications. These approvals did not grant development rights for new construction of the project to begin.  Future zoning applications are required and will include traffic studies, school impact studies, infrastructure analysis etc. and provide opportunities for the public to provide feedback, including public hearings at Planning & Zoning Commission and City Council.

9. Can the Char House be preserved without the other parts of the proposed project being developed?

The developer has been clear on the number of multifamily units needed to ensure financial viability and sustainability of the project. If the developer does not receive approval for the land uses, including multifamily, and density needed then the project will not move forward. Redevelopment is complex and this site is especially challenging for development and will require tradeoffs.

10. What’s to keep PUMA from buying the land, building apartments and then backing out of the Char House deal?

PUMA is the first developer who is willing to prioritize the preservation and enhancement of the Char House first before moving on to other aspects of the project. Therefore, the developer proposes to make the Char House improvements as Phase 1. City Council will control the actual timing and sequencing of the remaining project phases through future zoning approvals and a development agreement.

11. Why are apartments needed?

Over the years, the community has expressed a desire for more housing options to accommodate a variety of lifestyles and people at different life stages. This denser type of development also has other benefits, such as creating desirable workplaces for new, expanded and existing businesses, pathways to homeownership, public infrastructure improvements and quality of place amenities. This also helps maintain Sugar Land’s high-level of services and amenities while sustaining one of the state’s lowest tax rates.  

To create a vibrant and successful mixed-use project, multi-family units – like apartments – are necessary. Ultimately, we want this to be a financially successful and sustainable development that will benefit our community for years to come.

12. Who will be leasing the new proposed, multi-family units?

The units will be luxury and anticipated to attract single and/or dual-income empty-nesters and young professionals. Price range will vary based on square footage of the unit, plus amenities offered by the complex. The developer estimates a price of $2.25 to $3.35 per square foot per month depending on the size/quality of the unit and the type of complex. For example: a standard 1-bedroom unit of 800 square feet may be $1,800 to $2,600/month.

13. I don’t want apartments in Sugar Land. What other types of housing will be allowed with this redevelopment plan?

Additional housing options that will be considered include, but not limited to, townhomes, urban homes, and duplexes. These new types of housing are an essential first step to providing new pathways to homeownership and drive demand for existing and new dining, retail, amenities, and attractions. These other housing options will be considered in addition to mixed-use, multi-family units – like apartments – that are necessary for the financial success of this program. Ultimately, we want this to be a financially successful and sustainable development that will benefit our community for years to come.  

14. Will any of the apartments in the Imperial development be Section 8 housing?

No.  These are market rate apartments. The developer has stated the target market of the proposed apartments are single and/or dual income empty-nesters and young professionals, likely without children.

15. Will crime increase due to the addition of apartments in the area?

No. The Sugar Land Police Department analyzed police reports from 2019 to 2021 comparing multi-family and single-family housing in Sugar Land. When broken down by crime per housing unit, as well as multi-family housing vs single-family housing, there is no significant difference in crime. Additionally, Sugar Land has celebrated some of the lowest crime rates in our city’s history (both pre and post-COVID 19) after existing apartments were built in Sugar Land.

16. How will new apartments impact our schools?

According to Fort Bend ISD, single-family houses generate more students for the school district than multi-family at a rate of 0.51 vs. 0.35 students per household. Data from Population and Survey Analysts (PASA), who is the demographer for Fort Bend ISD, states that newly built, market-rate multi-family properties typically have fewer students since rental rates are generally higher. Student to housing unit ratios is typically affected by several factors, including number of bedrooms per unit, age and class rating of the property, building style, campus attendance boundary, and rental price. A recent School Impact Analysis performed for a previous multi-family project showed that for a development largely consisting of studio and one-bedroom units, the ratio of students per occupied unit was far below the district average. A school impact study will be conducted as part of the second step zoning process for this project.

17. What is a traffic study used for?

A traffic study is not a feasibility study to determine whether a project can move forward or not. The purpose of the Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) is to assist the City in identifying the effect of the proposed development on the City's transportation system including capacity, level of services, and safety. The study may recommend certain improvements or mitigations to public right of way.

18. How will development of this project impact traffic in the area?

A Traffic Impact Analysis study will be required as part of this development as is typical with new developments of this size in the city. That updated traffic study is currently underway and will be considered as part of future approvals for the project.

TIA's help staff identify the effect of the proposed development on the City's transportation services including capacity, level of services, and safety and determines what, if any, necessary traffic improvements are warranted and the developer’s share of the improvement costs.

19. Will this project impact drainage in the area?

The Imperial Char House site has existing impervious areas (impervious area is any type of human-made surface that doesn’t absorb rainfall, like driveways, parking lots, sidewalks, etc.), which has been used as base conditions in drainage studies during the redevelopment of Imperial to allow for future development of the Char House site. Any impervious area that exceeds the existing base condition impervious coverage will require additional stormwater infrastructure to ensure water does not create an adverse impact up or downstream on Oyster Creek. Therefore, we do not have concerns area residents will experience flooding because of this development.

20. How will the Children’s Discovery Center & Sugar Land Heritage Museum be impacted by this redevelopment?

The Sugar Land Heritage Museum and the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center are aware of the details of this project and are being updated as it progresses. Both the Heritage Museum and the Children’s Discovery Center were originally placed in that location as part of the previously proposed project, Imperial Market. Both projects need people within proximity to thrive and be successful long-term so both would benefit from being in a mixed-use, walkable development.

21. Where are we in the process of getting historic tax credit for the site?

PUMA Development and the City have contracted with Urbano Architects to advise on the historic tax credit process. Historic tax preservation works in three phases that are reviewed and approved by the Texas Historical Commission and the National Park Service. The City is currently in Phase 1 where its application is being reviewed and approved, with expected approval in the spring. The proposed work will aim to preserve and retain the historic character of the Char House and will follow the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. The team’s ultimate goal is to give the Char House a new use with minimal changes to its distinctive materials, features, spaces and spatial relationships. Additionally, the Imperial Sugar Company Refinery Historic District has been acknowledged on the National Registry of Historic Places since 2017. This is an incredibly important funding source for the preservation of the Imperial Char House.

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Planning | Lake Pointe Plaza

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1. So, if the mixed-use code is no longer moving forward -- what tool are you using to redevelop lake pointe? 

A new zoning district that is specific to redeveloping Lake Pointe Plaza, rather than a general mixed-use code city-wide. 

Visit the Lake Point Plaza Redevelopment page for more information

2. Is the entire Lake Pointe RAC anticipated to be rezoned, or just Lake Pointe Plaza?

Just Lake Pointe Plaza (Fluor campus) and two additional properties adjacent to and part of the project.  

Visit the Lake Point Plaza Redevelopment page for more information

3. Why is multi-family needed for the project to be successful?

For any commercial development to be successful there needs to be people.  In mixed-use developments where it is more compact, dense, and walkable the close proximity of people in and around the development are essential for not only creating the demand for retail and dining establishments but also ensuring they continue to thrive.  Multi-family or other similar dense housing products are essential to providing the economic success of the project.  

Ultimately, we want this to be a financially successful and sustainable development that will benefit our community for years to come. This denser type of development also has other benefits, such as creating desirable workplaces for new, expanded, and existing businesses, pathways to homeownership, public infrastructure improvements and quality of place amenities.?This also helps maintain Sugar Land’s high-level of services and amenities while sustaining one of the state’s lowest tax rates. 

Visit the Lake Point Plaza Redevelopment page for more information

4. Why are you moving forward with a Land Use Plan Amendment in Lake Pointe when there is no official submittal to redevelop Lake Pointe Plaza at this time?

The city is being proactive.  We know regulatory steps need to be taken to prepare this site for redevelopment and we are taking those steps. 

Visit the Lake Point Plaza Redevelopment page for more information

5. You mention that a Land Use Plan Amendment is necessary to redevelop Lake Pointe Plaza – what does that Land Use Plan Amendment entail?

The Land Use Plan designated 444 multi-family units for the Lake Pointe Regional Activity Center (RAC).  The City Council recently approved a development proposal for The Pearl at Lake Pointe to construct 380 multi-family units within this RAC. So, to make the Lake Pointe Plaza project financially feasible, an additional 700 units are needed.  These additional units trigger a Land Use Plan amendment to designate a total of 1,100 multi-family units for the entire Lake Pointe RAC. 

Visit the Lake Point Plaza Redevelopment page for more information

6. What is the timeline for preparing Lake Pointe Plaza for redevelopment?

On September 28, staff went before the Planning & Zoning Commission to discuss the proactive steps necessary to prepare Lake Pointe Plaza for redevelopment, including proposed changes to the Development Code.  Following the workshop with Planning & Zoning on September 28, staff will continue to refine the proposed code amendments based on input from the Planning & Zoning Commission. The Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a subsequent workshop and public hearing on October 26th and November 14, respectively and make a recommendation to City Council on the actions necessary to prepare Lake Pointe Plaza for redevelopment.

Visit the Lake Point Plaza Redevelopment page for more information

7. Why is this project being brought forward without completed impact studies (I.e. traffic, school, etc.) ?

We are at the beginning stages of visioning what the future of Lake Pointe Plaza could be. To conduct complete and accurate traffic and school impact studies, more detailed information is needed like specific uses, number of units, etc. Those details are not yet finalized at this stage of the project.  We do know that the current infrastructure can accommodate up to 5,000 people using the space as an office so there is baseline data that can be taken into consideration. 

8. What is a traffic study used for? 

A traffic study is not a feasibility study to determine whether a project can move forward or not. The purpose of the Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) is to assist the city in identifying the effect of the proposed development on the city’s transportation system including capacity, level of services, and safety. The study may recommend certain improvements or mitigations to public right of way. 

9. How will new multi-family impact our schools?

According to Fort Bend ISD, single-family houses generate more students for the school district than multi-family at a rate of 0.51 vs. 0.35 students per household. Data from Population and Survey Analysts (PASA), who is the demographer for Fort Bend ISD, states that newly built, market-rate multi-family properties typically have fewer students since rental rates are generally higher. Student to housing unit ratios is typically affected by several factors, including number of bedrooms per unit, age and class rating of the property, building style, campus attendance boundary, and rental price. A recent School Impact Analysis performed for a previous multi-family project showed that for a development largely consisting of studio and one-bedroom units, the ratio of students per occupied unit was far below the district average. A school impact study will be conducted as part of due diligence required for this project. 

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Planning | Lakeview Rezoning

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1. What is zoning?

Cities use zoning as a tool to administrate land uses (e.g. residential, commercial, office, or industrial) and the physical development of land such as the size of buildings, and how buildings relate to their surroundings, including other buildings, open spaces, and the street.

2. Does Sugar Land have zoning?

Yes, all properties within Sugar Land city limits must be placed in a zoning district, which ensures compatibility between uses (residential, commercial, industrial, etc.), prevents nuisances, and protects value of property. The City of Sugar Land is divided, or zoned, into thirteen (13) standard zoning districts and multiple planned development (PD) districts. Each standard zoning district has development regulations that are located in Chapter 2, Zoning Regulations of the City’s Development Code. Access the official zoning map online under “Zoning Districts” at  http://www.sugarlandtx.gov/273/City-Maps.

3. What is the Hill Area Residential (HR-1) zoning district?

The HR-1 district is a residential zoning district for the neighborhood known as The Hill, and was created in 1997. This zoning district has unique development regulations that ensures new development and redevelopment will be in character with the neighborhood, some of which were modified and/or added with the adoption of Ordinance No. 2237 by City Council on July 20th 2021.

The HR-1 Zoning District:

• Is not a historic preservation district;
• Continues to allow redevelopment including tear downs and rebuilds and new 2-story construction;
• Regulations only apply to new construction and future additions or structures;
• Tree regulations allow property owners to continue to plant or remove trees if not related to a demolition or new construction. 

4. What is the Standard Single-Family Residential (R-1) zoning district?

The R-1 zoning district is a residential zoning district that is applied to many of the traditional suburban neighborhoods within the City.

5. What is the difference between the HR-1 and R-1 Zoning Districts?

At a glance, both zoning districts address many of the same things such as requiring minimum setbacks, maximum lot coverage, maximum floor-to-area ratio, maximum height, etc. R-1 is less restrictive by allowing taller homes (maximum height of 35 feet or 2.5 stories), wider homes (5-foot setback on each side) and overall larger homes than what commonly exists in The Hill. While still allowing larger homes than what exist today, the HR-1 regulations ensure that the size of new construction is smaller in scale to be compatible with the surrounding area. For example, homes in the HR-1 are allowed to be 2-stories, but are limited to 27 feet in overall height. Homes are also limited in width by larger side setbacks (10 feet on each side) and maximum building width, based on lot width in order to keep the open feel to the neighborhood.

6. What happens if my property is rezoned from HR-1 to R-1?

If rezoned from HR-1 to R-1, your property will still have zoning and will follow development regulations for the R-1 zoning district when new construction such as additions or new houses are proposed on the property. This includes standard regulations such as minimum setbacks, maximum lot coverage, maximum floor-to-area ratio, maximum height, etc. Visit www.sugarlandtx.gov/LakeviewRezoning for a table comparison of R-1 vs HR-1 regulations.

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Planning | Pedestrian & Bicycle Master Plan

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1. How will this plan get implemented?

The Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan identifies a list of projects and ways to potentially fund those projects, which may include adding projects to the city’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP) or a future bond election.

2. How can we ensure the network is safe for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists?

Safety is a top priority for the City and for this master plan. The plan follows national design standards for pedestrian and bicycle facilities to ensure safety for all pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists.

3. What is the Pedestrian and Bicycle Task Force and who are its members?

The Pedestrian and Bicycle Task Force's mission is to provide guidance to the City’s Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan Update project. The Task Force served as a sounding board for ideas and ensured the project’s recommendations were consistent with community values. Utilizing the nominations received from the City Council, as well as additional nominations necessary to create a balanced group, the City identified an outstanding group of community leaders to comprise the task force. Click to view a list of Pedestrian and Bicycle Task Force members.

4. How can I get pedestrian and bicycle improvements in my neighborhood?

Complete a Capital Improvements Program (CIP) request.

5. How will the Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan be used?

City master plans identify strategies and initiatives for specific public needs. The Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan identifies a network of pedestrian and bicycle routes through the city and specific implementation projects to complete the network. These projects will be implemented through the CIP process.

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Planning | The District at Sugar Creek Planned Development

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1. Is this a city-led project?

No. This is a private development project. The property owner has brought forward this application for rezoning to allow this mixed use project.

2. Where is this zoning application in the process?

The application has been taken forward to the Planning & Zoning Commission. The Commission held a workshop and a public hearing on the item. The Commission then held their Consideration and Action meeting where they recommended approval of the item to the Mayor and City Council. The City Council held a workshop on March 22nd to review the Land Use Plan policy direction and guidance for Regional Activity Centers and Neighborhood Activity Centers, as well as discuss The District at Sugar Creek Final Development Plan project proposal and how it aligns with the Land Use Plan guidance for mixed use development in a Regional Activity Center. The next meeting to be held with the City Council is the public hearing and first reading of the ordinance for The District at Sugar Creek Final Development Plan proposal. Once a date is finalized for that meeting, the information will be added to the website and sent out to the email distribution group. The City Council meetings will again provide an opportunity for the public to give input and feedback on the proposal.

3. How many units are being proposed?

387 multi-family units as a mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom; and 15 live/work units with non-residential uses permitted on the ground floor.

4. What is a Regional Activity Center?

The City Council approved 2018 Land Use Plan identified five areas of the city as Regional Activity Centers. They are intended to become walkable areas that have a mix of several land uses, such as office, entertainment, retail, residential, civic, and hotels, all in varying ratios to allow each Center to have a unique character. This overall mix of uses is important in these Centers because they complement each other to ensure higher property values and tax revenues for the city. While land use mix is an important component of these Centers, so are their design considerations such as accessibility on foot, bicycle, or car, the building heights and location, having street level store fronts, and outdoor spaces shaded during the day and lit in the evening.

5. How is multi-family permitted here?

This proposal aligns with the guidance in the Land Use Plan for multi-family units in a Regional Activity Center. The Plan specifically states that the City should not approve new stand-alone single-use multi-family residential complexes, and that any new multi-family units should be located in a mixed use area (Regional or Neighborhood Activity Center) designed to be integrated in a vertically mixed-use building or integrated horizontally within a pedestrian friendly mixed use development. This proposal aligns with the guidance in the Land Use Plan for a mixed use development. The multi-family units are being constructed in a vertically mixed use building with non-residential uses on the ground floor. The 8-acre development is horizontally integrated with various non-residential uses located within the 8-acres as well as in the overall Regional Activity Center.

6. What type of non-residential or commercial uses will be permitted here?

The current proposal for District A would allow for non-residential uses, such as small-scale professional office, to be located on the ground floor of the live/work units. It also provides for approximately 2,400 square feet of additional non-residential space as well as 8,000 square feet of support areas including the leasing office, fitness center, and amenity center, all located on the ground floor and open to residents and the public. District B consists of three buildings proposed to be developed as restaurants and retail.

7. What did the school impact analysis say?

The Land Use Plan identified the need to complete a school impact study for any new proposed residential development as part of an activity center. The developer completed a school impact analysis as part of their rezoning application. For this project, the property owner utilized the same demographer used by the Fort Bend Independent School District; Population and Survey Analysts (PASA). The study concluded that this development, due to the large share of studio and one-bedroom units, will limit the number of households with children and therefore keep the ratio of students per occupied unit low and would not negatively impact schools. The study further indicated that this proposed development is only likely to yield 29 FBISD students once fully occupied. This site is in the attendance boundaries of Highlands Elementary, Dulles Middle and Dulles High School.

8. How is parking being addressed?

The proposal includes a structured parking garage which will provide 692 parking spaces onsite.

9. How is drainage being handled?

Any proposed development within the city undergoes a thorough drainage and traffic study. Drainage was analyzed as part of the staff review for this proposed development. Based on the current design, there will be full detention required for this site. There will be no impact to the existing system, nor the existing detention pond at the northeast corner of US Highway 59 and US 90A. All additional runoff will be contained within the site and released slowly back into the storm system.

10. Will there be any impact to traffic?

New development proposals require a full Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) be completed. The purpose of the Traffic Impact Analysis is to assist staff in identifying the effect of the proposed development on the City's transportation system including capacity, level of services, and safety.

A full TIA was submitted for this proposed development and the scope of the TIA study concentrated on the critical areas immediately impacted by traffic that is being anticipated from the proposed development. The applicant’s traffic consultant evaluated the study area as developed during the TIA scoping meeting with city traffic and engineering staff. City traffic and engineering staff completed their review of the TIA and have concurred with the findings, specifically noting that the Sugar Creek neighborhood south of US 59 is not expected to be significantly impacted by this proposed development.

11. How are the multi-family units being proposed different from a traditional apartment complex?

The Land Use Plan’s designation of this area as a Regional Activity Center provides guidance for development and restrictions on any new multi-family units. It states that no new stand-alone multi-family should be developed, and that any new multi-family should be part of a mixed use setting that includes additional uses, activates the pedestrian realm, and incorporates structured and shared parking.

The proposed “District at Sugar Creek” development consists of two Districts; District A and District B, to be developed as a mixed-use project including multi-family, live/work, restaurants, and retail. The proposal includes 387 multi-family units, including a mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom; and 15 live/work units, with a structured parking garage. District A also includes approximately 2,376 square feet of additional non-residential space located along the ground floor of the building. District B consists of three buildings proposed to be developed as restaurants and retail. It also includes an outdoor event lawn between the buildings and outdoor dining space to serve the restaurant development.

12. How would this development impact the overall ratio of multi-family as outline in the Land Use Plan?

The Land Use Plan envisions an 88% single-family housing/12% multi-family housing ratio in order to preserve the nature of Sugar Land’s single-family neighborhoods while also ensuring that an appropriate mix of housing options are available.

The current ratio of single family housing to multi-family housing is 92.1% single family housing/7.9% multi-family housing. If approved by City Council and developed as is proposed, The District at Sugar Creek project proposal would modify this ratio to be 91.2% single family housing/8.8% multi-family housing city-wide.

13. Has the City ever received a proposal for multi-family along Sugar Creek Center Blvd?

In 2006, there was a zoning application received and processed for a proposed condominium development on a 7.4 acre site located at the intersection of US Highway 59 and Sugar Creek Center Blvd located directly along the US Highway 59 frontage road. The Planning & Zoning Commission did not recommend approval of that proposed application because at the time it did not comply with the Land Use Plan that was in existence in 2006. The Land Use Plan that was approved by City Council in 2018 created five Regional Activity Centers that support mixed use development in these areas that includes residential options, such as multi-family, with specific parameters. This 8-acre site at the northwest corner of Century Square Blvd and Sugar Creek Center Blvd is part of the Sugar Creek Triangle Regional Activity Center and thus the Land Use Plan supports the ability for a property owner to request a rezoning for a mixed use development.

14. What is a Planned Development (PD) District?

The Planned Development (PD) district is designed to permit flexibility and encourage a more creative, efficient, and aesthetically desirable design and placement of buildings, open spaces and circulation patterns by allowing a mixture or combination of uses. A PD district may be used to permit new or innovative concepts in land utilization not permitted by other standard zoning districts in this Code to enhance existing or create new areas within the City that will promote the City's historical, cultural and architectural character. It is intended for application in all land use designations on the Future Land Use Plan, provided that the uses and development standards proposed are consistent with the stated goals of the City's Land Use Plan, including those found regarding Regional Activity Centers. The layout plan should provide an overall design, or other features or amenities that result in a high quality development. A PD may not be used for the primary purpose of avoiding the zoning regulations applicable to the primary zoning districts.

15. What is the current zoning designation for this property?

The 8-acre property located at the northwest corner of Century Square Blvd and Sugar Creek Center Blvd, being proposed as The District at Sugar Creek, is currently zoned B-O (Business Office) and has never been rezoned for residential use under the City’s zoning regulations since being annexed into the City.

16. Does this project proposal align with the Land Use Plan guidance?

Yes, this project proposal is in alignment with several of the goals and policy statements provided in the Land Use Plan. This development proposal provides the residential component that is missing from the Sugar Creek Triangle RAC, thereby contributing to the ultimate overall intended mix of uses. It is walkable, engages pedestrians, and activates the street by utilizing wider sidewalks and pedestrian amenities and pulling buildings closer to the street. The development includes a public plaza and outdoor gathering areas, and includes support services for the daytime office population as well as the evening resident population; all of which are in alignment with Plan guidance. The live/work units also support specific guidance from the Land Use Plan policy statement which states that some professionals prefer to conduct business within their home but have a separate dedicated space and entrance for that, thus supporting the live/work configuration as a way to accommodate this lifestyle preference.

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Planning | The Pearl at Lake Point

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1. Is this a City-led project?

No. This is a private development project. The property owner has brought forward this application for rezoning to allow this project.

2. Where is this zoning application in the process?

The Planning & Zoning Commission held a public hearing on March 23, 2023 where several members of the public spoke in favor of the development proposal. The Commission then held their Consideration & Action meeting on April 11, 2023 where the Commissioners unanimously voted to recommend approval of the proposal to the members of City Council. The next step is for City Council to hold their public hearing and first reading of the ordinance. This is another opportunity where any members of the public are invited to speak regarding the proposal. That meeting is scheduled for May 2, 2023.

3. How many units are being proposed?

370 multi-family units as a mix of one-bedroom and two-bedroom; and 5 live/work units with office focused uses permitted on the ground floor.

4. Why is multi-family permitted here?

This proposal aligns with the City Council approved 2018 Land Use Plan which identifies this area as part of a Regional Activity Center. A Regional Activity Center is an area located along regional highways to ensure that more intense uses are separated from single-family residential areas. The Regional Activity Center calls for a variety of land uses such as office, retail/entertainment, hotels, and residential including multi-family residential.

5. How is parking being addressed?

The proposal includes a structured parking garage as well as some on-street parking.

6. How will this impact our public schools?

The developer has completed a school impact analysis as part of their rezoning application which concluded that this development, due to the higher number of one-bedroom units, would yield approximately 23 students at full occupancy. This site is in the attendance boundaries of Highlands Elementary, Dulles Middle and Dulles High School.

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Police

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1. Do I have to register my house alarm with the Police Department?

Alarm registration is no longer required. The Sugar Land Police Department reminds residents and businesses that the city's alarm ordinance allows five alarm calls in a calendar period (January through December). A $50 fee will be assessed after the fifth service call in the same calendar year period. Residents need to provide the Dispatch non-emergency number of 281-275-2020 to their alarm companies.

2. Where can I learn more about job opportunities with the SLPD?

Please visit our careers page for more information.

3. How can I renew my Texas driver's license?

Now you can do it from your home. Click here to renew your drivers license without leaving home and standing for hours in a long line. The Department of Public Safety Visit the Texas Department of Public Safety’s website established this site for your convenience. It is available to all Texas residents who need to renew their driver’s license and I.D. cards.

4. I collect police department patches. Can I get one from Sugar Land?

The Sugar Land Police Department receives many requests on a daily basis for its patches. Because of the expense of patches and some Texas laws, the department does not currently sell, trade or give away its patches. For Your Information: The department is extremely proud of its patch. It contains the city seal. Inside the seal is the star of Texas. Inside the star is the crown of the Imperial Sugar Refinery. Sugar Land obtained its name because the jurisdiction was built around the Imperial Sugar Factory which unfortunately ceased its operations in 2003.

5. Can I get a criminal history on a prospective nanny?

Because of rules and regulations of the National Crime Information Center and the Texas Crime Information Center, it is not possible for our law enforcement agency to release criminal history information to individuals. In Texas, certain criminal history information is available to individuals from the State of Texas Department of Public Safety. For further information contact the Texas Department of Public Safety.

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Police | Crime Prevention Camera Program

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1. How long has the LPR system been around?

The City has used License Plate Recognition and surveillance cameras since 2009. This technology has been used by cities for several years.

2. Will the cameras monitor major cross streets within subdivisions?

The City will only focus on major streets and intersections at entrances and exits throughout the City. Partnerships will be developed with homeowner associations and local businesses that have their own camera system.

3. Will the footage be publicly available?

No. The City will follow applicable laws, including the Freedom of Information Act.

4. How will the cameras be used?

The system will be used as a passive investigative tool where data is stored and can later be searched for criminal leads after a crime occurs.

5. Will the cameras be monitored?

There will not be live monitoring. The system will be used as a passive investigative tool, storing data that can later be searched for criminal leads after a crime occurs.

6. Are other cities using cameras in this way?

Some are using a combination of monitored video systems and passive license plate recognition systems. Many cities across the country use cameras for similar purposes, but none are using them in the exact way that Sugar Land envisions.

7. How will the City prevent misuse of the camera system?

The Police Department will have policies and procedures in place that will govern the use, length of time camera data will be saved, and identify who will have access to camera data. These policies will be developed with the input from the citizens and direction from the City Council.

8. Will the LPR camera data (images) be shared with other agencies or the federal government?

The camera data will not be shared with other agencies unless it is needed for a specific criminal investigation. Authorization from the chief of police will be required before camera data is shared with another agency.

9. What specifically will the License Plate Recognition Cameras record?

The LPR cameras will be located on major public streets throughout the city and aimed directly at the lane of traffic. The intent is to capture vehicle license plates. The LPR cameras will not record private areas such as houses, backyards, or other private property. The cameras typically do not record facial images or the interior of vehicles.

10. How long will the LPR camera data be saved?

The Police Department is recommending saving the camera data for 30 days.

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Police | Recruiting

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1. Can I apply if I have not been to a Police Academy?

Yes. The Sugar Land Police Department will send recruits to a local Police Academy.

2. Can I apply if I am a Police Officer from another state?

Yes. You will have to contact TCOLE and receive approval to challenge the state test. Once the challenge process is complete, you are eligible to be hired as a Certified Police Officer with SLPD.

3. Do I get paid while in the Police Academy?

Yes. While in the police academy, the salary for noncertified recruits starts at the Police recruit level. 

4. Does the Sugar Land Police Department offer a lateral entry program?

We do not have a lateral entry program for Police Officers. 

5. Is the Sugar Land Police Department a civil service agency?

No. SLPD is not a civil service agency.

6. What is the work schedule for Patrol Officers?

Patrol Officers typically work 10-hour shifts with 3 consecutive days off. Days off and shift assignment are based on seniority.

7. Are there special divisions within SLPD for career advancement?

Yes, SLPD has multiple different divisions to include: Criminal Investigations, Traffic Unit (Motors), Crime Prevention, Training & Recruiting, Narcotics and Parks. In addition to daily assignments, SLPD offers SWAT, CNT, SRT, Field Training Officers, K-9, Drones, Bicycle Patrol, UTV’s.

8. Does the Sugar Land Police Department offer incentive pay for education?

Yes, incentive pay is offered for the educational degrees: Associate’s, Bachelor’s and Master’s and Certification Levels: Intermediate, Advanced and Master’s.

9. What is your policy on facial hair?

Facial hair is permitted as long as it fits the guidelines listed in the policy.

10. Are tattoos allowed?

Yes, they must not be offensive and a long sleeve uniform should be able to cover them.

11. What is the average length of time to complete the hiring process?

The hiring process typically last 3-4 months.

12. I am currently in the military. Can I apply?

Yes, as long as you have 2 years’ active military, have an ETS date prior to being hired and an honorable discharge you are eligible to apply. 

13. Are there physical requirements?

Yes - see specific physical requirements.

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Police | Red Light Cameras

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1. When were the cameras deactivated?

Red light cameras in Sugar Land were turned off on June 2, 2019.

2. Do I still have to pay outstanding red light tickets?

All outstanding notice of violations, regardless of the date of violation, are exempt from payment responsibility and no further administrative hearings will be scheduled or heard. No refunds will be issued for violation payments already processed.

3. What if I recently mailed payment?

If your payment has not been processed, checks will be returned to you.  If you do not receive your returned payment within 60 days of being mailed, contact Peggy Heinemeyer at 281-275-2055.

4. What about my driving record?

Fines assessed from red light camera violations were civil fines, not criminal. Because the violation was a civil matter, it did not count as a moving violation and was not reported on your driving record.

5. Was there be a cost to Sugar Land to deactivate the cameras?

The city’s red light camera vendor will remove the equipment per the city’s contract. The removal process could take four to six months. Sugar Land’s RLC contract includes an adverse legislation termination clause. The city’s RLC vendor will remove their equipment at their cost.

6. How will the City still monitor these intersections?

The Sugar Land Police Department will continue to monitor traffic concerns and accidents. Traffic officers will be deployed to locations where there’s an identified need.

7. How was red light camera revenue spent?

Per state law, the revenue from red light penalties was first used to cover expenses from the program.  The remaining funds were split 50/50 between the state and City.  These funds were placed in the City’s general fund to be used only for traffic safety programs, intersection improvements, public safety programs and traffic enforcement, including the Safe Light Sugar Land initiative.

8. How much revenue did Sugar Land’s red light camera program generate?

Revenue from red light cameras represented approximately one percent of the City's general fund operating budget prior to termination of the program and could only be used for traffic safety programs.

9. Is there data on who was running red lights in Sugar Land?

Approximately 70 percent of violators did not live in Sugar Land.

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Public Works

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1. How do I check on a sidewalk repair request?

Please call 281-275-2450 to check on the status of your repair. The city has an ongoing repair program based on an established priority system. Through citizens' requests and annual inspections, sidewalk failures are identified and prioritized for repair or replacement. Small repairs are scheduled and repaired by city staff.

2. How can I report a streetlight outage?

Regular street light outage:

• Obtain the pole number. It is a six-digit number that starts with a three, a four or a five, and the number faces the street. For example, 442691.
• You can report it directly to CenterPoint Energy by using their online form or by calling the Public Works Department at 281-275-2450.

Decorative street light (black with decorative globes) outage:

• For those that are in the First Colony area (not on State Highway 6), please call the First Colony Community Association (FCCA) at 281-634-9500.
• For those on state highways, including Eldridge Road, U.S. Highway 90A and State Highway 6, please contact CenterPoint Energy to the Public Works Department at 281-275-2450 to report the problem.

3. When does the city spray for mosquitoes?

Mosquito spraying occurs every Friday night starting around 9 p.m. (weather permitting). For more information, see the city's mosquito control strategy.

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Public Works | AMI Implementation

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1. What is Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)?

Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) is an integrated system of customer water meters, communication network, and data management system that provides real-time water use information to the city and its water customers. As part of Sugar Land’s AMI Project, all 40,000 water meters in Sugar Land will be replaced or retrofitted to allow for communication with the AMI system. This investment will upgrade and modernize the City's water infrastructure and ensure accurate water meter reads.  

Customers will not be able to opt out.

2. How does Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) benefit residents?

Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) allows residents to have access to hour-by-hour information on their water consumption. This feature empowers residents to make informed decisions about their water usage. Residents will be able to access this information through the City of Sugar Land online portal, as well as set usage alerts on their accounts to avoid high bills.

3. Why is Sugar Land switching to Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)?

A citizen-led committee, who dedicated over two years to develop the Integrated Water Resource Plan (IWRP), recommended the implementation of AMI. This investment in the City’s infrastructure is expected to reduce water losses in the city's water distribution system with improved customer meter accuracy, reduced unauthorized consumption, reduced data transfer/archive errors, reduced data billing errors and reduced customer-side leaks by identifying uncharacteristic water use.

4. How will AMI enable me to access my water usage data?

Starting Summer 2024, customers will have access to an online portal, WaterSmart. This site will allow customers will be able to view their water usage, set alerts for leaks, and receive more information on the City’s water initiatives. 

5. Will I continue to have access to my meter box?

Yes. AMI will not limit access to meter boxes, but they are utility property. Customers looking inside their meter box should be careful not to damage the meter or antenna. 

6. Will I be notified before AMI installation work begins in my neighborhood?

Yes. Pedal Valves, Inc, our AMI installer will be hanging door tags two weeks prior to installation. Day of, a Pedal Valves representative will attempt to contact the homeowner to explain the work being done and ensure water is not being currently used. Pedal Valves will never need to enter a house to complete work. 

7. What can I expect on AMI installation day?

Installation can be expected to take around 30 minutes. Water may need to be shut off, if the meter was identified for a full replacement, but PVI will not start this work if water is being used. When complete, the meter box will be returned to how it was before and an informational door tag will be placed at the front door.

8. Is AMI secure?

City of Sugar Land is committed to safeguarding customer privacy. All water consumption data is encrypted and stored securely in a cloud data center. Meters do not transmit customer account numbers, names, or other personal information. Data transmitted from the meter to the portal is transmitted through a radiofrequency channel that is licensed to the City.

9. Are radio frequencies emitted from AMI meters safe?

Yes, AMI is safe. The radio signal from the meter falls well below the threshold set by the Federal Communications Commission for healthy and safety standards and is not a health concern. In fact, everyday devices found inside the home, such as microwave ovens, have significantly greater radiofrequency exposure than AMI meters. 

The three factors that contribute to RF exposure are signal duration, RF energy, and distance from source. AMI meters transmit a signal for a fraction of a second, emits much less RF energy than common household items, and is generally located away from the house at the meter box.  

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Public Works | Drought 2023

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1. Why has Sugar Land initiated Stage 1 Drought?

The City's Drought Contingency Plan Stages are triggered when there is a drought proclamation, total daily water demand exceeds specified thresholds, or when water supplies or treatment capacity become reduced. On August 22, Governor Abbott issued a declaration of drought disaster for Fort Bend County. With the proclamation of drought and increased water demand primarily attributed to outdoor water irrigation, the City has initiated Stage 1 Drought. 

2. Are watering restrictions mandatory?

No, watering restrictions are not mandatory in Stage 1 Drought. However, all residents and customers are highly encouraged to reduce landscape irrigation with an irrigation system or hose-end sprinkler to two days a week and reduce water used for non-essential and aesthetic water needs.

3. I don't have an irrigation system or a hose-end sprinkler. Am I allowed to hand-water my landscaping?

Irrigation of landscaped areas and structure foundations is permitted at any time by means of a hand-held hose with a positive shut-off nozzle, a faucet filled bucket or water can of five gallons or less, or drip irrigation system. 

4. What is a Drought Contingency Plan?

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) requires public water suppliers and wholesale water suppliers to adopt Drought Contingency Plans that lay out responses should a water shortage or water production and delivery emergency impact the ability to deliver drinking water. 

5. How long will the City be in Stage 1?

There is currently no timeframe for how long the City will remain in Stage 1 Drought. The City will remain in Stage 1 until all triggering conditions have ceased to exist. 

6. When do watering restrictions become mandatory?

Watering restrictions become mandatory in Stage 2, which calls for mandatory twice a week watering.

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Public Works | Lead and Copper Rule Revisions

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1. What is lead?

Lead is a naturally occurring metal that is harmful if inhaled or swallowed. Lead can be found in air, soil, dust, pottery, food and water.

2. What are the risks of lead exposure?

Lead can cause a variety of adverse health effects if too much enters your body from drinking water or other sources. These effects may include increases in the blood pressure of some adults; delays in normal physical and mental development in babies and young children; and, deficits in the attention span, hearing, and learning abilities of children. The greatest risk of lead exposure is to infants and pregnant women.

3. Are there some homes and businesses that are at a higher risk of having lead service lines or plumbing?

Structures built before the lead ban will be at a higher risk. The lead ban went into effect in Texas in 1988. Plumbing installed before 1988 can have lead in the solder, pipes, faucets, or fixtures, which can leach into the water supply over time. 

Developments built in the past 35 years would have neither lead service lines nor private plumbing lines that are lead, but plumbing fixtures in the home or business could contain lead. From 1986 to 2014, plumbing fixtures could contain up to 8% lead to be categorized as, “Lead free.” However, current standards for “lead-free” fixtures allow no more than 0.25% of lead content.

4. How can I tell if my home or business has lead plumbing?

The City of Sugar Land has no information on the type of material used in private plumbing lines inside homes and business. Customers who think their home or business could be at risk can hire a licensed plumber to perform an inspection. 

Customers may also be able to identify their plumbing material themselves using a key or coin and a refrigerator magnet:

Use a Key or coin to scrape a small area on the pipe. Check to see if a magnet will stick to the pipe. 

• If the scraped area is the color of a penny, the pipe is copper. A magnet will not stick to a copper pipe.
• If the scraped area remains a dull gray, and a magnet sticks to the surface, the pipe is galvanized steel.
• If the scraped area is shiny and silver, the pipe is lead. A magnet will not stick to a lead pipe.

5. Does Sugar Land's water systems have lead service lines?

Currently, in Sugar Land, we have no known lead service lines. Water system records do not indicate any lead service lines in the portion of the distribution system owned by the city. However, to achieve compliance with new EPA regulations, we must verify whether lead materials are in any of the city-owned and customer-owned portions of each service line connected to the water systems. This inventory will be completed by October 2024, and it will be made available to the public on the city’s website.

To complete this inventory, city staff are conducting an extensive review of all historical records pertaining to the water systems. Staff are also collecting data on service line materials during normal operations, such as repair and replacement of service lines and meters. Staff may also need to perform visual inspections of the meter box or perform minor excavation near the meter box to identify the materials on both side of the meter. 

6. Will I be notified if my service line is suspected to contain lead?

If the service lines at your address are suspected to contain lead, you will receive a letter with additional information. 

7. What has Sugar Land done to limit residents' exposure to lead?

Corrosive water can dissolve lead from plumbing materials in service lines and home plumbing. By using chemicals to control the corrosivity of the water, lead exposure can be reduced. The City of Sugar Land has a corrosion control plan, as part of the Lead and Copper Rule. The system’s corrosion control technique is to adjust pH so the treated water is non-corrosive to metal. Over time, this process has resulted in Sugar Land’s treated water forming a protective scale on the inside of pipes that prevents the leaching out of materials such as lead.

In 2021, TCEQ approved optimal pH ranges for the system to operate within at all times. Monitoring is performed every two weeks at the point where the treated water leaves each treatment plant and quarterly at locations throughout the distribution system. Results of this monitoring are reported to Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

The City of Sugar Land conducts lead and copper testing, as required by the TCEQ. Samples are collected and analyzed every three years from each of the city’s water systems. The City of Sugar Land was awarded a reduced sampling schedule of every three years because we have repeatedly demonstrated that the water systems meet the federal government's requirements. To date, the 90th percentile results for all of the city’s sampling events have been well below the Action Level of 0.015 mg/l for lead. 

8. What can I do to reduce or eliminate lead from my drinking water?

The City of Sugar Land is responsible for providing drinking water that meets all federal and state standards but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components found in homes and other buildings. If you are worried about lead exposure, here are some steps you can take:

• Flush your tap water by letting the water run for several minutes if it has been sitting in your pipes for several hours, such as first thing in the morning or upon returning from work
• Use only cold water for drinking, cooking, or preparing baby formula
• Remove and clean faucet screens or aerators
• Use a filter certified to remove lead
• When replacing plumbing components or faucets, make sure the products have been tested and certified to “lead-free” standards

9. How can I get my water tested?

If you’re concerned your home plumbing may contain lead, you may want to have your water tested by a state-certified laboratory. 

A list of certified laboratories is available on the TCEQ website (TX Drinking Water Public Labs - Lead and Copper Testing - Google My Maps). Contact labs directly for information on cost and sampling bottles.

10. Where can I find additional information on lead in drinking water?

Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline 800-426-4791 or EPA’s website (https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/basic-information-about-lead-drinking-water). 

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Public Works | Roundabouts in Sugar Land

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1. What are the differences between roundabouts and traffic circles?

A traffic circle can use stop signs and other controls. There are also no limits to the circle size or the entrance angles and widths of the approaches. 

A modern roundabout only uses yield control on approaches. Roundabouts also have design limits on circle size and the approach entry designs.

2. What do these advance lane control signs mean?

Before reaching a roundabout, drivers will see lane control signs to direct them into the correct lane. For example, if a driver wants to make a right turn (or travel straight through), he or she can move to the right lane before entering the roundabout. To make a left turn, a u-turn, or also go straight, drivers can move to the left lane and follow the lane striping to the correct exit. Keep in mind that each roundabout will have different layouts, so drivers need to look for the lane control signs in advance of a roundabout.
Learn more about roundabouts >>

3. Are roundabouts safe for pedestrians?

The City designed its roundabouts so that people can safely walk across the streets. The crosswalks are designed to allow pedestrians to cross at a minimum distance of 20 feet from the roundabout circle. The crosswalk is also divided by a median, and lets pedestrians see vehicles coming from one direction at a time. Pedestrians will see traffic exiting on one side of the median and traffic entering the roundabout on the other side.
Learn more about roundabouts >>

4. Do I need to stop at the yield signs?

When approaching a roundabout, drivers need to look for vehicles already in the circulating roadway. If there are no vehicles in the roundabout circle or entering the roundabout from a lane on the left, then a driver can enter the roundabout at a reduced speed without stopping. However, if there are vehicles in the circle or entering at the same time, then the driver should stop and wait for an adequate gap in order to enter the roundabout safely.
Learn more about roundabouts >>

5. Can I change lanes in a roundabout?

Although a multi-lane roundabout has two or more lanes, drivers should not change lanes while travelling in the roundabout. The traffic signs are designed to guide drivers to the correct lane before entering the roundabout and while circling the roundabout. If a driver does not choose the correct lane, then he or she should exit the roundabout, make a u-turn at the next median break and choose the correct lane based on the traffic signs. Changing lanes within a roundabout not only causes confusion for other drivers, but can also cause accidents.

Learn more about roundabouts >>

6. How do trucks and buses use a roundabout?

Many roundabouts are designed to allow buses and large trucks to drive through the roundabout. They typically have a 5-15 foot wide mountable curb around the central island called a truck apron. Buses and semi-trucks can use this apron in order to make a turn within the roundabout, and for multi-lane roundabouts, they can use both circulating lanes in order to make a turn. However, drivers of large vehicles need to wait until the circulating roundabout is clear of vehicles before they can enter and use both lanes. In addition, drivers on multi-lane approaches to roundabouts need to give way to oversized vehicles and allow them to enter the roundabout first.

Learn more about roundabouts >>

7. What about stopping in a roundabout?

Drivers should never park or stop within the roundabout or along the entrances and exits. Because the roundabout is designed to allow continuous traffic flow, extended stopping and parking within the roundabout area can lead to accidents. If a driver experiences vehicle problems, it is best to exit the roundabout before stopping. Also when another driver stops within a roundabout, do not change lanes to go around them since this can increase the risk of an accident. Wait for them to move.
Learn more about roundabouts >>

8. How do I react to an emergency vehicle approaching a roundabout?

This depends on where a driver is located when an emergency vehicle approaches from behind. If he or she is approaching the roundabout, the driver should pull over before reaching the median dividing the entrance and exit lanes. If the driver is at the entrance or within the roundabout circle, he or she needs to enter the roundabout and take the first exit. Once he or she is out of the roundabout, then pull over for the emergency vehicle.
Learn more about roundabouts >>

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Public Works | Street and Sidewalk Maintenance

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1. What types of repairs are performed by the city?

The city performs the following types of repairs:

• drainage issues, i.e. standing water
  
• curb repairs
  
• minor pavement repairs, i.e. cracks and potholes
  
• full street reconstruction
  
• manhole adjustments and repairs
  
• storm drain inlet repairs
  

2. What types of repairs are not performed by the city?

The city does not perform repairs on any of the following:

• driveway aprons, curbs, lips or panels
  
• sidewalk landings
  
• railroad crossings
  
• Texas Department of Transportation rights of way
  

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Public Works | Trees and Tree Trimming

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1. Does the city own all the trees in Sugar Land?

No.  The city is responsible for the trees along certain roadways, ditches, and highway frontage roads within the city as seen on this map.  Trees along other major thoroughfares are owned and maintained by adjacent homeowner’s association (HOA) or property owner’s association (POA).  Trees located adjacent to a private business or residential property, are the responsibility of the owner.

2. Who is responsible for the maintenance of the trees?

The owner of the tree is responsible for the maintenance of the tree.  In some communities, the HOA will maintain the tree in front of a residential property.  If you do not know, it would be best to contact your HOA prior to completing any maintenance on your tree.

3. How often are trees pruned?

The City prunes its trees on a 3-5 year rotation.  Residents are encouraged to prune their trees on a similar rotation.  All trees along roadways are inspected every three years for compliance with the City Ordinance.  The City Ordinance requires that residential trees are pruned 12’ above the roadway and 8’ above the sidewalk; and all non-residential trees be pruned 14’ above the roadway and 8’ above the sidewalk.

4. What if a tree branch or tree falls down in the roadway?

Even if the city does not own the tree, city crews will come out 24/7 to respond to a concern.  If it is a city-owned tree, even if it is a small branch, the city will remove the hazard.  If it is a privately owned tree, the city will safely remove the tree from the roadway and place it in the yard or ROW of the owner of the tree.  It is the responsibility of the owner of the tree to remove the debris.

Please contact Public Works by dialing 311 or 281-275-2450.

5. Can I remove a tree in my yard?

The City does not have an ordinance for the removal of trees on private property, but certain HOAs have deed restriction regarding trees.  It would be best to contact your HOA prior to completing any work.

6. Why are trees being removed along certain roadways?

In certain areas of the community, trees were originally planted too close together.  As these trees have grown over time, the canopies of the trees have grown together to create very dense shade in numerous areas.  The shade has caused turf to die back and decline in many areas.  This causes unsightly conditions and dirt to runoff into the storm sewers during rain events.  

7. What are the benefits of tree removal?

There are multiple benefits of tree removal.  Removing trees will allow sunlight to penetrate to the turf below allowing turf to thrive and prevent soil runoff during rain events. This, in turn, improves the effectiveness of the storm sewers, creeks and stream, which can contribute to lower oxygen levels that are harmful to aquatic life.  Tree removal will also allow streetlight to penetrate to the street to allow for safer roadways.  Reducing the number of trees also allows for more growing space for remaining trees and allows them to increase their canopy.  This will improve the appearance and value of the remaining trees.  Since trees planted too close together can have root grafting, the spread of disease is also more prevalent.  

8. Who decides trees need to be removed?

The owner of the tree is responsible for making the decision of any tree removal.

9. Why were trees planted so close together in First Colony?

Trees are often initially planted closer together in order to create an aesthetically pleasing look from the beginning.  Unfortunately, the trees eventually mature and cause other issues.

10. What is tree thinning?

Tree thinning is the process of selectively removing branches within the tree canopy to allow light to penetrate to the ground.  Arborists recommend thinning of certain trees to protect the overall health of the canopy, which also protects the wildlife that uses the trees as habitats.

11. Does the City have a policy about replacing trees that are removed?

The Development Code requires trees to be replaced when removed IF they qualify as a Protected Tree under the definition in the Development Code.  Protected Tree means a hardwood tree having a minimum caliper size of 8 inches or greater, as measured 4½ feet above ground level. Otherwise, if trees are removed from private property and the removal of those trees takes the property out of compliance with the Development Code landscaping regulations in Chapter 2, then the City would have recourse to require replanting to comply with the landscaping requirements in Chapter 2.

Regarding trees within the right-of-way, the City does not have a policy regarding the replacement of trees.  In most cases, trees located in the right-of-way are owned and maintained by the adjacent property owner.  They have the sole discretion on choosing to replace a tree that is removed from the right-of-way. Trees along State-owned ROW’s are maintained by the City and are replaced, budget dependent, if they are removed.

12. Can the City require developers, private businesses, or Homeowners/Property Owners Associations to replant trees that they remove on their privately-owned property?

The Development Code requires trees to be replaced when removed IF they qualify as a Protected Tree under the definition in the Development Code.  Protected Tree means a hardwood tree having a minimum caliper size of 8 inches or greater, as measured 4½ feet above ground level. This determination is made during the building permit process and review of a landscaping plan, if required. The landscaping requirements in Article XV (Landscaping and Screening Regulations) apply to any premise on which construction occurs for which a building permits is required.  There are a few exceptions – restoration of a building with a historic designation, remodeling of the interior of a building or the façade of building that does not alter the location of exterior walls, or the expansion of a Single-family or Two-Family Dwelling.

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Public Works | Water

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1. Is the water in Sugar Land safe to drink?

Yes! Our drinking water meets and exceeds all Federal and State drinking water requirements and our water systems are operated by State Certified operators. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) is responsible for overseeing the state’s environmental areas, which includes the City of Sugar Land’s water quality. City staff and the TCEQ collects and analyzes water samples for metals, minerals, organic compounds, disinfectant byproduct compounds, and radiological compounds. The TCEQ has rated Sugar Land as having a “Superior” water system, its highest rating.

In addition to TCEQ-required daily process control samples taken at the water plants and system entry points, the City of Sugar Land has certified operators that perform over 85 bacteriological tests monthly in its distribution system and collects quality assurance / quality control samples at least once a week.

2. Where does my water come from?

Historically, the majority of the city’s drinking water supply has been from groundwater aquifers. There are twelve city groundwater plants ranging in size from approximately 3 to 12 million gallons per day (MGD) of production capacity. The water in these aquifers is from the Gulf Coast Aquifer system with an average depth of greater than 1,200 feet.  

In response to Fort Bend Subsidence District’s (FBSD) 30 percent alternative water supply conversion deadline, the city constructed a 10.85-MGD surface water treatment plant (SWTP) that went into operation in 2013. The city has three sources of water available to supply the SWTP with surface water. The city holds a contract with the Gulf Coast Water Authority (GCWA), who delivers raw water from the Brazos River to Oyster Creek. The contract with GCWA provides 10 MGD (11,201 AFY) of raw water, and an agreement to purchase an additional 10 MGD for future needs. The city also has a contract with the Brazos River Authority (BRA) for 6,388 AFY of raw water. Finally, the city holds a water right on Oyster Creek which allows the City to withdraw 18,000 acre-feet per year (AFY).

3. How do I get my drinking water tested?

Although we don't recommend this since the TCEQ has rated Sugar Land as having a “Superior” water system, its highest rating, you may contact a private laboratory for individual analysis of your water. Labs are listed in the yellow pages. The City continually performs water quality testing in accordance with State and Federal regulations. We are unable to provide testing on an individual basis.

4. I think I have a water leak, what should I do?

The homeowner is responsible for the pipes within the house, as well as the water service line from the house to the water meter box. If you think you have a leak, please call us first to request a leak investigation. You may contact 311 or our 24-hour line at 281-275-2900.

5. Whom should I call if I notice water running down the street?

If you notice a leak or discharge of water, whether it is in the street, from a meter, or a hydrant please call 311 or the city's 24-hour line at 281-275-2900 and a crew will be dispatched to investigate the situation and take appropriate actions.

6. What is the best way to turn the water off at my house in an emergency or for repairs? How?

You can turn the water off inside your home / building at the main valve. The main valve is generally located where the water service enters the house / building. You should maintain this valve so it is easily accessed in case of an emergency. If you cannot turn your water off, and need emergency assistance, please call our 24-hour line at 281-275-2450.

7. Why is my water pressure so low?

Several things can temporarily cause reduced water pressure in your home:

• Plugged or restricted screens on your faucets
• Malfunctioning or partially closed water valves in your home
• Water main breaks, firefighting, and hydrant flushing may affect the pressure

8. What causes white water?

The presence of air bubbles may cause your water to appear white or cloudy. You can identify the problem as air by filling a glass with water. If the cloudiness rises from the bottom to the top of the glass, it is most likely air. This air is caused by seasonal temperature changes in the water.

9. What is the white deposits on my glasses, pans, and ice cube trays?

The white deposits or dots are calcium and magnesium in our water (hardness). These are naturally occurring minerals and do not pose a health risk. To remove the residue, try wiping or soaking the object with vinegar. Commercial products can also be used to remove the residue that has built up on glassware.

10. What is the hardness of Sugar Land's water?

The range for the Sugar Land is 34-211 parts per million or 2.0 – 12.3 grains per gallon.

11. The aerators on our faucets are filled with white debris. What is it?

“White chunks” or eggshell-like particles that clog faucet aerators and showerheads are actually pieces of plastic from hot water heaters that are experiencing dip tube failure.

There are two solutions to this problem:

• Flush all the dip tube debris from the heater tank, install a new dip tube, and then clean all the strainers and aerators.
• Replace the water heater and then clean and flush the strainers and aerators. Contact a licensed plumber for additional information.

12. What is the rusty color in my water?

The rusty tint is caused by iron that is naturally occurring in water. Sudden changes in the system, such as when a fire hydrant is opened, can stir up the iron sediments that have been built on pipes and cause temporary discoloration. If you have rusty water, please call the 24-hour line at 281-275-2450 and a crew will be sent to investigate within the hour. City crews will flush the lines through fire hydrants during the year to minimize the buildup of sediments in pipes, which helps reduce chances of discolored water.

13. Can I paint the fire hydrant near my home to make it more decorative?

No. The color of our hydrants is designed to allow it to stand out from its surroundings and make it easily identified by fire fighters. Also, the color on the top of the hydrant identifies the flow that can be expected from that particular hydrant.

14. There are colored paint marks in the grass and on the road in my neighborhood. What does this mean?

These paint marks are probably placed by utility locating crews, and they identify the location of underground utilities for scheduled excavation. Red indicates electric, orange indicates telephone or cable TV, yellow indicates gas, blue indicates water, and green indicates sewer.

15. Is the City of Sugar Land’s water system fluoridated?

Yes. The City adjusts the fluoride that is naturally occurring to 0.7 parts per million (ppm) which is the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommended level.

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Public Works | Water and Wastewater Services

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1. Sewage is backing up into my house, who should I call or what should I do?

We recommend you first contact our 24-hour line at 281-275-2450. We will assess the backup to determine if the blockage is in the public sewer line or the property owner’s private sewer lateral. The city will clear blockages that occur in the public sewer line and if it is on your private lines, you would be responsible for calling out a plumber.

2. There is a sewer odor in my house, what should I do?

The first thing to do is to make sure that all of the traps in your drains have water in them. If there is a drain that you seldom use, such as a shower or sink that rarely get used, run water into that drain for a bit. That may well clear up the problem.

The other thing to do is to check under your house and make sure that there are no leaking drain pipes there. Leaking pipes underneath your house are not the responsibility of the city. You should contact a plumber to repair those problems. If these checks do not tell you the problem, please call our 24-hour line at 281-275-2450.

3. What causes a sanitary sewer to backup?

Most sewer backups occur because the line is plugged with grease, roots, or a combination of grease and roots. Backups are also caused by a sag (or belly) in the line or a sewer lateral that has collapsed. Never place anything in the system other than bathroom tissue. Products like baby wipes and rags and other products labeled “flushable” frequently cause backups because they do not disperse like bathroom tissue.

4. What kinds of problems do fats, oils and grease (FOG) cause?

When fats, oils, and grease are introduced into the sewer, they are usually warm and free flowing. However, shortly thereafter, they cool and harden and adhere to the pipe wall. A FOG buildup will eventually cause a backup and cause stoppages or sanitary sewer overflows (SSO's).

City ordinance requires Sugar Land restaurants to have grease traps to intercept, separate and contain their FOG discharges.

For the homeowner, there are relatively easy ways to avoid this potential problem. Below are simple steps, that would eliminate many time-consuming and costly sewer line repairs or blockages in your private lines:

• Fats, oils and grease should NEVER be poured down the sink. Sink drains and garbage disposals are not designed to properly handle these materials.
• Before washing, scrape and dry wipe pots, pans and dishes with paper towels and dispose of materials in the trash.
• Avoid relying on the garbage disposal to get rid of food scraps. The garbage disposal chops up food into small pieces, which can still cause a blockage in the pipe. Use sink strainers to catch food items, and then empty the strainer into the trash.

5. What is the purpose of manhole covers?

The manholes circular metal lid usually located in the middle (sometimes to the side) of the street are for access to the sanitary sewer main. Only authorized city personnel can remove the manhole cover and enter the manhole.

Please ensure the manhole covers on your property are clearly visible and easily accessible at all times. Please do not bury them or disguise them. Your assistance in keeping these areas clear will save valuable time when crews are repairing or maintaining the lines.

6. If I notice missing, damaged, or noisy manhole covers (loose fitting) what do I do?

Please report the occurrence on our 24-hour line at 281-275-2450.

7. What is a sanitary sewer?

A sanitary sewer is a pipe located in the city right-of-way or backyard easements that is designed solely to transport wastewater from sanitary fixtures and floor drains inside your house or business to the city's wastewater treatment plants. Sanitary sewers in your neighborhood are owned, operated, and maintained by the City of Sugar Land.

8. What is a lift station?

Lift stations pump the sewage uphill from a low point which enables the sewage to flow by gravity into the city’s wastewater treatment plants.

9. What is a storm sewer?

A storm sewer is a pipe located in the city rights-of-way or easement that is designed to carry storm-related water runoff (Storm water). Storm sewers are normally much larger than sanitary sewers because they are designed to carry much larger amounts of flow. Storm sewers are owned, operated and maintained by the City of Sugar Land.

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Public Works | Water Conservation

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1. Why should I conserve water?

Water conservation fortifies our community’s quality of life by ensuring availability of ample water resources and mitigating cost to reduce groundwater use to 40% by 2025 as mandated by the Fort Bend Subsidence District regulations. A comprehensive effort to use our water resources efficiently and reduce wasted water use is an essential component to providing safe and plentiful water to our customers today and in the years to come. As the population grows and water resource regulations change, the city’s Integrated Water Resources Plan (IWRP)  calls on water customers to contribute to our water resource management through conservation.

2. Why should I conserve water when there is no drought?

When water conserving habits are established during times of normal rainfall, the impact of drought and water use restrictions are lessened. For example, when lawns are deeply irrigated only when soil becomes dry (rather than a regular schedule), grass roots grow deeper resulting in a more drought tolerant lawn.

3. Do I have to buy new equipment to conserve water?

Water use awareness and changing habits are the most impactful conservation strategies. Water saving appliances are beneficial to achieving water conservation goals.  When planning appliance replacement or choosing irrigation system components, choose WaterSense™   labeled products that are proven to save water when compared to traditional appliances.

4. How can I save water if I live in an apartment?

Refer to the Saving Water Indoors page for tips to conserve water. Contact apartment maintenance team when repairs are needed for leaking toilets and dripping faucets or leaking waterlines.

5. When is the best time of day to irrigate?

Watering early in the morning, after 2:00 am and before 10:00 am is best for landscapes.  This hydrates plants and sustains them through the high mid-day and afternoon temperatures.  Avoid watering during the heat of the day when evaporation is greatest. Watering in the evening and at night contributes to mold and fungus growth and standing water that attracts mosquitos when they are active.

6. What is Cycle and Soak?

Reduce wasteful irrigation run-off by implementing the Cycle and Soak Irrigation Method.  Cycle and Soak is a two-cycle process that allows water to slowly penetrate deeply into our compacted, clay soils.  When the soil is moistened after the first watering cycle, water from the second cycle will flow even deeper into the soil.  When soil is moist to a depth of 6 to 8 inches, roots are encouraged to grow deeper.  Deeper roots support a healthier lawn.

Links for articles and information on lawn irrigation from AgriLIFE Extension:

• AgriLIFE TODAY, October 18, 2012,  Water, rest, water, save  
• AgriLIFE TODAY, November 1, 2012, Drought-restricted watering schedules don’t have to equate to dead lawns

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Public Works | Water Master Plan

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1. What is a Water Master Plan?

The Water Master Plan is an implementation tool that describes the infrastructure and policies necessary to accomplish the water-related goals of the City’s Comprehensive Plan. The Water Master Plan is used as a guide for orderly and timely development of water facilities and infrastructure for the City.

2. Who can participate in the Water Master Plan Update?

To ensure the project’s recommendations reflect the community’s preferences, the City is encouraging any interested parties in the Sugar Land community to participate in the Water Master Plan Update process. Residents and homeowners associations are a few examples of the wide range of interests that can contribute to the project.

3. How can I participate or find out more about the Water Master Plan Update process?

There are several ways residents can stay informed about the Water Master Plan Update project. Residents may sign up for email updates by joining the City’s mailing list; residents may submit an email sign up form to receive email updates about the project. Upcoming meetings, project resources and information will also be posted on the Water Master Plan Update project webpage throughout the course of the project.

4. What is a Comprehensive Plan?

A comprehensive plan documents a city’s broad vision and is commonly referred to as a city’s roadmap. A comprehensive plan is comprised of base information, vision and goal statements, and a set of master plans that outline objectives and strategies for land use, transportation, and public facilities, including possible future capital improvements, development regulations, or major policies.

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Sugar Land History | Prison Cemetery

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1. When did the city acquire the cemetery?

The cemetery was dedicated to the City by LID 17 during October of 2006.  Sugar Land City Council approved Resolution No. 12-02 on Feb. 7, 2012.  The resolution authorized the purchase of 63.331 acres of land for park purposes and the purchase of 11.426 acres of land for airport purposes from NNP-TELFAIR, LP per the 2003 Development Agreement.

2. Why did the city acquire the cemetery?

The city of Sugar Land negotiated with Newland to accept responsibility for the ownership of the cemetery, ensuring this historical property does not disappear through neglect like many others throughout the country.

3. How has the city protected the cemetery?

The city zoned the cemetery and surrounding property as parkland, a designation that protects and preserves the property.  The city went further and purchased all of the land around the cemetery.  We planned enhancements that were intended to make the cemetery more accessible and highlight its historical importance.

4. Has the city worked with local groups to honor the cemetery’s history?

The city routinely provides cemetery access to the Texas Slave Descendants Society to host events there.

5. Has an archeological survey been performed?

An archeological survey of the property was previously completed by Newland Communities as required by federal law.

6. Have other surveys been performed?

The Fort Bend County Historical Commission is charged with carrying out a continuing survey of the county’s historical buildings, sites, cemeteries, archeological sites, both public and private, and other historical features within the county and reports to the Fort Bend County Commissioners Court and the Texas Historical Commission. Any new development that could have an impact on a historic site such as this must be vetted through the FB Historical Commission.  The Texas Historical Commission performed ground-penetration studies of the property in May 2016.

7. Will future surveys be performed?

The city will comply with all required laws prior to any future parkland development surrounding the cemetery.

8. What is the status of parkland development on city-owned property surrounding the cemetery?

The city’s plans for a community park in Telfair were halted by the failed passage of an $18.5 million bond proposition.  Even though the regional park was defeated in the bond election by residents of Sugar Land, that property is still designated for future parkland in our Parks, Recreation Master Plan.

9. How has Sugar Land worked to preserve prison-related history?

• The city is committed to honoring the history of the Old Imperial Farm Cemetery and the surrounding prison operation.
• Sugar Land maintains the cemetery.
• The City made significant contributions to the Houston Museum of Natural Science in Sugar Land, which was built inside what was once the Main Unit, known as Two Camp, where the prison’s black inmates were held. The museum has included an exhibit documenting the contributions of African-Americans.
• The City worked with the Fort Bend Historical Commission to submit an application to THC for a permanent educational historical marker at the cemetery.  The marker was installed with a ceremonially celebration.
• The Imperial Farm Cemetery was declared a Historic Texas Cemetery in 2007 in an application that was made in collaboration with the FB Historical Commission and approved by the THC. The City has protected and maintained the prison cemetery property since taking ownership.
  
  

10. Is the city working to develop a museum?

The City of Sugar Land created the Sugar Land Heritage Foundation and contributes funding to ensure the preservation of the city’s history.  The Sugar Land Heritage Foundation has been collecting local historical documents for a museum opened in 2018 at the Imperial Refinery site.  This museum will eventually include a diversity of exhibits documenting the contributions of African-Americans and all others. Community groups are encouraged to support the development of the museum.