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February Festival

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1. Where can I get tickets?

We are encouraging all participants to buy their tickets ONLINE this year at https://apm.activecommunities.com/chanhassen/Home through January 31. Buy tickets online and you will be eligible to win a $100 gift card from Cabin Fever Sports. Tickets are also available at City Hall and will be as a back up the day of the event. You can also purchase them online at www.ci.chanhassen.mn.us. If you purchase them online before January 27, they will be mailed to you. Tickets purchased online after January 27, can be picked up at “will call” on the ice, day of the event starting at 10:30am

2. How much are the tickets?

Tickets are $10 each. Each person is allowed to fish from a maximum of 2 holes and a ticket is required for each hole. Tickets must be affixed to your fishing pole or tip-up during the contest.

3. Are holes pre-drilled?

Yes, 1,000 holes will be pre-drilled and you may bring a chisel to help keep them open.

4. Can I bring a fish house or fishing sled?

No fish houses or fishing sleds are allowed within the designated fishing contest area.

5. Can I bring a cooler or food?

No, food and beverage coolers will not be allowed on the ice. The Chanhassen Rotary Club, Culvers and the Boy Scouts will provide concessions on the ice for purchase. Proceeds from these groups are reinvested back into the Chanhassen community. Please support!

6. How long is the event?

The event runs from 12 noon-3 pm. The fishing contest runs from
1 pm-3 pm.

7. Is there bait for sale?

Yes, the Boy Scouts will be selling bait on the ice.

8. Are there fish prizes?

Yes, the top 50 largest fish (measured by weight) will receive prizes. All bass are ineligible for the contest as well as Northern between 24-36 inches in length. Any fish prizes that are not awarded for largest fish will be drawn in the raffle.

9. May I keep my fish?

All fish entered into the contest will be released immediately after weigh-in.

10. Do I need to be present to win prizes?

You must be present to win the top 50 fish prizes and door prizes.

11. Can I win more than one prize?

You may win more than one door prize, but you may ONLY win one of the top 50 fish prizes. (Once you have recorded a fish, your name will be placed on the board in its corresponding position. If you catch a larger fish, we will replace your previous fish with the larger fish, in its corresponding position.)

12. Will beer be sold on the ice this year?

Yes, by the Rotary Club of Chanhassen.

13. Is there a place I can warm up?

Yes, there will be a bonfire on the ice and the Rotary Club will be selling hot cocoa and coffee.

14. Are tip-ups allowed?

Yes, tip-ups are allowed.

15. Are there door prizes?

There are $3,000 in total door prizes. You may pick up one free door prize ticket as you enter the event. One ticket per person. Must be present to win. Drawings begin at 1 pm.

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Fire

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1. What is a recreational fire?

A fire that is 3 ft. x 3 ft. in size and used for recreational purposes.

2. Do I need a permit for a recreational fire?

No permit is required for a recreational fire.

3. Do I notify anyone if I’m having a recreational fire?

No; however, it is in your best interests to notify your neighbors that you’re having a fire. Sometimes the Fire Department receives calls from neighbors unaware of the recreational fire.

4. What do I do if my smoke detector beeps?

First check to see that everyone can get out of the house. Then check for a fire. If there is no sign of fire, check the battery. If your smoke detector is hard-wired, look at cleaning and/or replacing your smoke detector.

5. How often should I check my smoke detector?

Check it monthly and replace batteries every time you change your clock for daylight savings time.

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Franchise Fees

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1. What is a Pavement Management Program (PMP)?

The City of Chanhassen is responsible for the upkeep of 112 miles of city streets and 60 miles of trails. Since the start of the PMP in 1991, the city has made a commitment to provide residents with a systematic program of street and trail rehabilitation and repair in order to assure that the city streets and trails are serviceable, safe, functional, and provide a cost-effective approach to meet the needs of our residents. The City of Chanhassen’s PMP strives to expend taxpayer funds to ensure the most value for residents.

Every mile of street and trail is inspected every three years. Distresses such as potholes, cracking, rutting, etc. are entered into a computerized program to calculate a pavement condition numeric value. Streets that are new and have no distresses have a value of 100, while streets that have completely deteriorated have a value of 0. For the past 10 years, the city’s overall pavement network value has been around 70 and is considered to be in good condition. The pavement condition values assist staff in developing a list of streets and trails that are in need of maintenance. The goal of the program is to “do the right maintenance at the right time” so costly improvement projects can be delayed as long as possible.

2. What is a Franchise Fee?

Every City has a franchise agreement with each utility company (gas, electric, etc.) for their use/rent of city­owned right-of-way for their business purposes.

• Right-of-way is City property devoted for roadway purposes but is also used for utilities, trails and sidewalks, and snow storage.
• By law, Cities may charge utilities a fee for use of city right-of-way. Utility providers will likely pass this fee onto their customers.
  
  

3. Are Franchise Fees Just Another Tax?

While not technically considered a “tax”, this is a new dedicated revenue source for the city which would be collected from utility users in Chanhassen; it will have the same effect as a tax. However, it is not levied in the way a property tax is levied, given that franchise fees are not tied to the value of a property. Thus, all single-family homes would pay the same amount toward the PMP assuming they have both gas and electric services. Specifically, franchise fees are a method of collecting funds from utility companies who use city rights-of-way. These funds are typically passed directly through to all commercial businesses, tax-exempt properties, and residents that use the street and trail systems.

4. What will the franchise fee funds be used for?

The franchise fees would be set aside in a dedicated fund and will be used solely for expenditures related to the PMP projects such as street overlays and reconstruction, and trail improvement projects.

5. What is the City's authority to charge a franchise fee?

Minnesota State Statutes allow for a city to impose a fee on a utility company for its use of publicly owned right-of-way (MN State Statute 216.36). Many cities throughout the state have adopted franchise fee ordinances to help pay for roadways and trails. For example, within Hennepin County, 87% of the population pay franchise fees to the utility companies that are passed through to the specific cities. The majority of these cities utilize this revenue source for their related PMP.

6. How much will I be charged?

Charges for residential customers $5 for both electric and gas. Commercial and other properties would be charged at a separate rate. This fee would generate approximately $1.76M million annually.

7. Would the City still assess property owners for street projects?

Yes, per the current City assessment practice.

8. I live in an apartment or townhome. Will I be charged a franchise fee?

Yes, the fees are charged by electric and gas meters and you will pay the standard residential fee. The fee pays for your use and maintenance of the public city streets and trails.

9. How often will the city review the franchise fee for consideration of changing the fee?

The City is planning to review the fee every five years. It is not anticipated that the fee will need to be adjusted in the near term.

10. Where can I go to find out more information on the proposed Franchise Fee?

More information about the proposed Franchise Fee can be found on the City’s website at http://www.ci.chanhassen.mn.us/franchise.

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Galpin Boulevard (CR 117) Improvements Project

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1. Why does Galpin Boulevard need to be reconstructed?

The roadway is currently in poor condition and needs to be upgraded to current design standards including the installation of curb and gutter and a storm sewer system.

2. Will Galpin Boulevard be widened to four lanes north of West 78th Street?

No additional thru traffic lanes are proposed north of West 78th Street. Additional turn lanes may be added at some intersections and the study is also investigating other potential intersection improvements including roundabouts and enhanced pedestrian crossings. Paved shoulders are also being considered.

3. Will the speed limit stay the same?

The current speed limit between Highway 5 and Lake Lucy Road is 45 MPH. The speed limit north of Lake Lucy Road is 40 MPH. The study will evaluate if the speed limits can be lowered.

4. Where can I find more information?

Carver County is the City's partner on this project.  For more information, including design plans, please visit the Carver County Highway 117 Project website.

5. When is the project scheduled for construction?

Construction is currently scheduled for 2022.

6. If construction isn’t planned until 2022, why is the City doing a preliminary design study now?

The preliminary design study will enable the City of Chanhassen and Carver County to determine the scope and estimated cost of the improvements, and allow the City and County to begin to develop a proposed funding plan for the project. The study will also help the City better plan for future development along the corridor.

7. Are sidewalks and/or trails included as a part of the project?

Yes, trail improvements are included as a part of this study. It is anticipated that the project will include trails along both sides of Galpin Boulevard between Highway 5 and Lake Lucy Road. The preliminary design study will further investigate possible sidewalk and trail improvements north of Lake Lucy Road.

8. How is the project going to be funded, does it include any assessments to property owners?

No assessments to property owners are proposed. Funding for the project will come from County and City funds. City funds will primarily come from the Municipal State Aid fund that the City receives from the State of Minnesota gas tax proceeds. This section of Galpin Boulevard is currently owned and operated by Carver County. Once Galpin Boulevard is reconstructed, the roadway will be turned over to the City for operations and maintenance.

9. Will I have access to my property during construction?

You will have access (i.e. you can access your driveway) for a majority of the project. Detours and side street closures may be necessary. For properties that have direct access to Galpin Boulevard, the only time you will not have direct access is when utilities are being constructed in front of your home or when new curb and gutter is being cured (typically 3 days).

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General

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1. What are your hours?

Our hours are Monday-Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

2. Where can I get a driver's license renewed, license tabs, or a passport?

The Chanhassen Service Center is conveniently located at 7808 Kerber Boulevard in downtown Chanhassen (next to M & I Bank). Chanhassen Service Center

3. I’m just moving in and need to contact utility companies to put the service in my name. Who should I call?

More information on Public Utility Companies

4. Where is the Post Office and how can I contact them?

The Post Office is located at 7700 Laredo Drive (just east of City Hall) and their phone number is 1-800-ASK-USPS.

5. Does the city provide garbage collection?

No. Residents contract with garbage haulers privately, but must select a city approved licensed garbage hauler.

6. Where do I get recycling bins?

Your garbage hauler provides recycling bins.

7. Is broadband Internet service available in Chanhassen?

Broadband service is currently available to most residents of Chanhassen through the cable TV provider, Mediacom, or through a DSL phone line connection from CenturyLink. Service areas for these vendors may vary. To contact Mediacom, call 1-800-332-0245. To contact CenturyLink, call 1-800-475-7526. Various satellite dish vendors may also offer Internet access.

8. Do I need to license my dog or cat?

No, but your pet is required to have identification and be vaccinated against rabies. Pet licencing information

9. How can I get a map of Chanhassen?

We have a variety of maps available. Maps

10. Where can I find information about my property?

Property information can be found at Carver County.

11. What is the phone number for the SouthWest Metro Chamber of Commerce?

Their phone number is 952-474-3233 and they are located in Chanhassen at 7925 Stone Creek Drive, Suite 130. SouthWest Metro Chamber of Commerce

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Landscaping

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1. My neighbor's tree hangs over my house/yard/garden. What can I do?

The My Minnesota Woods website contains a number of fact sheets pertaining to landscaping issues between neighbors.  Click here to get more information on trees and the law.

2. Are there any restrictions on where I can plant trees and shrubs?

Yes and no. The City recommends that all plants be placed outside of the drainage and utility easements that run around the perimeter of your property. Generally, these easements run 10 feet in the front and rear yards and 5 feet along side property lines. Also, plant materials should be at least 15 feet away from the curb or street because of underground utilities in that area.

3. Will someone at City Hall answer my questions about trees or shrubs?

Yes, contact Jill Sinclair, Environmental Resource Specialist, at 952-227-1133. Jill Sinclair

4. Do I need a permit to cut down a tree?

No, but you may want to contact Jill Sinclair, Environmental Resource Specialist, at 952-227-1133 to make sure it is not located within a tree preservation or conservation easement. Jill Sinclair

5. How do I get my landscape escrow released?

Call or email Jill Sinclair, Environmental Resource Specialist at 952-227-1133 to set up an inspection. If all landscaping is completed, the escrow will be released after the inspection. Jill Sinclair

6. How do I dispose of tree branches or yard waste?

Check with your garbage hauler, bring them to an area compost site or take them to the city's spring or fall yard waste collection day.  More details.

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Law Enforcement

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1. Where do I call to report a crime or other law enforcement concern?

The City of Chanhassen contracts with the Carver County Sheriff's Office for police services. If it is a non-emergency, call 952-361-1231, if it is an emergency call 911. Carver County Sheriff's Office

2. How can I receive a copy of a report or access other law enforcement records?

Contact the Sheriff's Office Records Division.

3. How do I remain anonymous when reporting an incident?

When reporting an incident to law enforcement you may elect to remain anonymous by stating so to the dispatcher answering your call. Keep in mind that law enforcement authority is more restricted when responding to anonymous calls. For example, if you were to remain anonymous while reporting a possible drunk driver, an officer would not be able to stop the vehicle unless the officer witnesses driving behavior allowing a stop. If you were to give your name and identifying information, an officer could stop the vehicle based on what you witnessed.

4. How do I obtain a permit to purchase a handgun?

Permit to purchase a handgun information.

5. What are juvenile curfew hours?

Ages under 12 years:
9 p.m. - 5 a.m. Sunday-Thursday
10 p.m. - 5 a.m. Friday & Saturday

Ages 12- 14 years:
10 p.m. - 5 a.m. Sunday-Thursday
11 p.m. - 5 a.m. Friday & Saturday

Ages 15 - 17 years:
11 p.m. - 5 a.m. Sunday - Thursday
12:01 a.m. - 5 a.m. Friday & Saturday

6. Is there always a law enforcement officer at city hall?

No. Deputies assigned to Chanhassen use offices and parking areas provided for them at city hall. However, often there is not a deputy at city hall, even if squad cars are parked in the lot. Driving to city hall to contact a deputy is not recommended. Instead, call the Sheriff's non-emergency number at 952-361-1231. A deputy can return your call, arrange to meet you, or drive to your location in Chanhassen. If it is an emergency, dial 911.

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Parks & Recreation

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1. How do I reserve a picnic shelter/site for a group event?

Picnics sites are available May through September. Call or email Jerry Ruegemer, Recreation Superintendent at 952-227-1121 to reserve picnic sites at Lake Ann Park and Lake Susan Park. Picnic information may also be accessed on our website. Jerry Ruegemer

2. What is the Recreation Center’s phone number and where is it located?

The Chanhassen Recreation Center is located on the east side of Bluff Creek Elementary School at the corner of Highway 5 and Galpin Boulevard. The address is 2310 Coulter Boulevard and the phone number is 952-227-1400. Chanhassen Recreation Center

3. Where is the Chanhassen Skate Park?

The skate park is located just east of City Hall at 7700 Market Boulevard. From Highway 5, turn north on Market Boulevard and you’ll easily see the skate park at the intersection of Market Boulevard and Chan View. Skate Park

4. How can I report a park maintenance suggestion or complaint?

Please contact our Park Superintendent, Adam Beers at 952-227-1300 or via email.

5. Are pets allowed in parks and on trails?

Pets are not allowed in city parks, but leashed pets are welcome on city trails.

6. Does Chanhassen have a pooper scooper law?

Yes. Owners are required to carry bags or equipment to clean up after their pets.

7. What are the hours of operation for Chanhassen parks?

Chanhassen’s parks are open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

8. Are there any volunteer opportunities available in the Park & Recreation Department?

Please contact Jerry Ruegemer at 952-227-1121 for any volunteer opportunities.

9. How do I register my child for a park and recreation program?

Park and Recreation registration information.

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Permits and Inspections

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1. What is the purpose of a Building Permit?

The purpose of a building permit is to provide minimum construction standards established by the Minnesota State Building Code. These minimum construction standards provide safeguards for life, health, property and welfare by regulating design, construction, materials, use and the type of occupancy of all buildings. A building permit must be obtained any time a building or structure is erected, enlarged, altered, repaired, moved, converted, or demolished.

2. How long does it take to get a building permit?

The average turn around time is 10 working days.

3. Do you have a list of contractors from which you can recommend a builder, plumber, etc?

No, the city does not recommend contractors.

4. Do I need a permit for a shed?

Yes, permits may be applied for at the building inspections desk in city hall. Shed placement information

5. Do I need a permit for a fence?

Yes. Fence permits can be applied for at the building inspections desk in city hall. Fence installation information

6. Do I need a permit for a retaining wall?

A permit is required for a retaining wall if the wall is over 4 feet tall. The retaining wall may not encroach in the drainage of the property. Contact the City of Chanhassen Engineering Department at 952-227-1160 regarding drainage issues. Retaining walls less than 4 feet tall require a zoning permit to ensure zoning compliance. Zoning permit information

7. Do I need to be home for a deck inspection?

No, all we need is the approved plan, the approved survey, and the Inspection Record card to be displayed by the deck to allow the requested inspection to take place and be recorded on the Inspection Record.

8. Do I need a permit to install a patio or replace my front sidewalk?

A zoning permit is required prior to the installation of a patio or sidewalk. The zoning permit is at little cost to the homeowner and ensures the addition complies with all zoning requirements, including but not limited to hard surface coverage limitations, required setbacks, etc. Zoning permit information

9. When you say my deck footings must be 18 inches in diameter, does that mean all the way from the surface down 42 inches in depth?

No, only the bottom 12 inches of the footing must be the required size. You may reduce the diameter to the surface. The sides must be uniform and smooth. Deck information

10. Where and when do I need smoke detectors in new homes, existing homes and additions?

Smoke detectors are required for the entire house when remodeling or finishing a basement. Smoke detectors must be in each bedroom, in hallways leading to bedrooms, and on every level of the home. Smoke detectors must be hard wired with battery backup in the newly constructed areas. In existing homes, existing bedrooms may be retrofitted with smoke detectors using battery power only.

11. Do I need 4-mil poly on both sides of my basement walls?

Not necessarily, however, a vapor barrier (typically 4-mil poly) is required on the warm side of insulated walls

12. I am having problems with my house i.e. siding rippling, roof leaking, foundation cracking, etc. I want the city to come out and complete an inspection and tell me what is wrong.

The City of Chanhassen does not provide homeowners this type of inspection service. The city performs inspections on active permits. Independent inspectors can be hired to do these types of troubleshooting inspections. Independent Inspectors may be found in the telephone book.

13. I have a complaint about my builder not correcting things in my house. What should I do?

Builders usually have a policy and time line for corrections on new homes. Always make the requests to the builder in writing. Contact the Department of Commerce at 651-296-6319 if you feel your contractor has not performed per your contract.

14. Does your department handle electrical inspections?

No, Electrical inspections are performed by the State Electrical Inspector. Contact Brian Luce at 952-233-8988, Monday- Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. only.

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Planning & Zoning

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1. Where can I find out about current development and projects within the City?

Information on Planning & Zoning Development.

2. Can I subdivide my property?

The answer to this question is dependent upon several elements, including zoning of the property; size of the parcel; availability of roads, sewer, and water; etc. Contact the Planning Department for information at 952-227-1130.

3. How is a setback measured?

A setback is generally measured from the structure to the property line. However, since property lines are typically not visible, it is best to contact the Planning Department at 952-227-1130 for more information.

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Public Works

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1. Who should I call if my street light is burned out?

Please report any damaged, malfunctioning, or burned-out streetlights to the Public Works Department at 952-227-1300.

2. What are the City’s Winter Parking Rules?

From November 1 to April 1, a “no parking” restriction on all city streets is in effect between the hours of 1:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. and anytime of the day or night when 2 inches or more of snow has fallen, until the street is plowed curb to curb. Violators may be tagged and/or towed.

3. What if a snowplow hits my mailbox?

If mailboxes are damaged by direct contact with snow removal equipment, the city will repair or replace it with a standard mailbox as soon as possible. Mailboxes should be 42 inches above street level and not extend beyond the back of the curb. Call 952-227-1300 to report a damaged mailbox.

4. What if my sod or landscaping is damaged by a snowplow?

If sod on city right-of-way (boulevard) adjoining your property is damaged by our plowing equipment, call 952-227-1300 to report it. Damage to boulevards from plows will be repaired in the spring with black dirt and grass seed. The city is not responsible for damage to landscaping and sprinkler heads located in the city-owned right-of-way. The street right-of-way (boulevards) are important areas needed for snow storage during the plowing operations; therefore, it is recommended that residents remove and relocate objects (i.e. fences, landscaping, large rocks) that could hamper or be damaged by the snow removal operation.

5. How can someone tell if a street is public or private?

In Chanhassen, you can tell if a street is public or private by the color of the street sign.  

• Brown - Public
• Blue - Private
• Green - County Road

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Senior Center

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1. What are the Senior Center hours?

8:30am - 4:30pm

2. Where is the Senior Center located?

Lower east level of City Hall, 7700 Market Boulevard.

3. At what age may I participate in Senior Center activities?

Age 55 years.

4. Do I need to be a resident of Chanhassen to attend the Senior Center?

No. All residents from surrounding communities are welcomed.

5. Is there a membership fee?

No.

6. Where can I find information regarding the Senior Center?

Look for the weekly Senior News in the Chanhassen Villager newspaper, and the Senior Center section of the Chanhassen Connection that is mailed to all residents quarterly. Also, the Senior Center mails out a quarterly newsletter that lists current information and activities. To be placed on the mailing list, call the Senior Center at 952-227-1125.

7. Where can I find transportation for social and medical appointments?

Transportation options are available on the Carver County Senior Services web site.

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Sewer & Water Utilities

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1. How do I report a Water/ Sewer Main Break?

Report Sewer & Water Emergencies.

2. Why is my water sometimes discolored or rusty looking?

There are some areas in the city where water use is low and trace elements in the water have time to settle out of solution and collect in the bottom of the pipe. These can then be stirred up by sudden high use. It is not harmful to drink but should be removed by contacting Water Production Technician Craig Carlson by email or by phone at 952-227-1701.

3. What is my water’s hardness?

Chanhassen's water hardness is 21 grains per gallon.

4. How do I turn off the water supply to my house in the event of a scheduled plumbing repair?

Call 952-227-1300 and set up an appointment for a water shut-off.

5. Is the City responsible for plumbing leaks?

The city is responsible for maintaining only the water meter inside the home. It is the responsibility of the homeowner to maintain the service line to the structure being served, including the curb box. The city is responsible for the water main, service connection, and service line up to (but not including) the curb box.

6. What is my drinking water quality?

Please review our annual Water Quality Report.

7. Why is chlorine added to our water?

Our water is disinfected with a small amount of chlorine to guard against disease causing organisms, and pathogens.

8. Why is fluoride added to the water?

Fluoride is added to the water as mandated by the Minnesota Dept of Health to protect children’s teeth. It is added at a dose of about 1 part per million.

9. Who should I call about a problem or question about my drinking water?

Information about water treatment.

10. Why does Chanhassen flush fire hydrants?

Information on Hydrant Flushing.

11. How much of the city has treated water?

The city's entire water supply is treated to remove iron and manganese as well as adding chlorine and fluoride.  Additional info...

More Water Treatment Information

12. Where can I find my water meter and how can I use it to check leaks?

Helpful information about water meters.

13. What causes the spots on my dishes?

These spots are caused by deposited calcium hardness. This is a typical sign of a malfunctioning home water softener or the absence of one.

14. Why does the water sometime look milky?

Milky looking water is an indication that there is air in the water. This is not harmful and is usually caused by recent water main work or repair in your area. Notify Public Works of the problem, so they can remove the air with hydrant flushing.

15. How can I use my water meter to check for leaks?

Information on using your water meter for link detection.

16. What is the small metal disk in my yard or driveway?

This is the water shut-off valve to your home. Seasonal settling can cause the valve (sometimes referred to as a curb box) to stick up above the surrounding ground and become a problem for lawn mowing or driving if it is in your driveway. Please contact the Utility Department at 952-227-1300.

17. Why does my water smell like rotten eggs and how do I get rid of it?

Smelly water, or rotten egg odor, is hydrogen sulfide gas that is present in the water. It is not usually harmful at the low concentration that occurs in a household water system. The City maintains a chlorine residual throughout the system that eliminates this smell, but if water sits in any place too long (dead-end lines, unoccupied houses, new developments with only a few homes), the chlorine dissipates and results in the smell. Water heaters with a magnesium anode rode are another common cause of this odor, especially in houses where little water is used.

To eliminate smelly water caused by your water heater, turn your hot water heater up to high for several hours (150-160 degrees). This should kill the sulfur bacteria. Then flush your system, especially your water heater. Also, the magnesium rod can be replaced with an aluminum one, or removed completely. If you live on a dead-end line or in an area with just a few homes, we recommend calling the City Water Department at 952-227-1300 so that the lines can be flushed to assure that there is chlorine present to kill the hydrogen sulfide odor.

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Surface Water Resources

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1. What is the odor coming from the pond?

Rotting organic matter, water turnover, or certain types of algae are typically the main sources of bad odor. Organic matter decays at the bottom of the pond when it is stagnant and poorly oxygenated and sulfur-dioxide is released as a by-product of the decomposition. When the water is disturbed by way of cool wind or heavy rainstorms, the odor comes to surface.

2. Why is the pond green?

The green you are seeing may be any of a variety of plants. Common plants which are naturally occurring and generally benign include duckweed and watermeal which is often mistaken for algae. Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, can be harmful with prolonged or frequent exposure. Algae blooms are caused by heat and excessive amounts of nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus. Some of the most common sources of nutrients include fertilizers, grass clippings, and animal waste. Cyanobacteria

3. Why are there so many geese?

The ideal habitat for Canadian geese is mowed Kentucky bluegrass contiguous with a body of water. A significant way to prevent geese from impending your pond is to stop mowing to the shoreline. This gives geese easy access in and out of the water and is a desirable habitat for them. There are a variety of methods for control geese but establishing a buffer of native plantings along the water’s edge is the most effective. This will not only deter geese but it will also provide water quality benefits. More information on geese can be found on the MN DNR website. MN DNR Geese

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The Bluffs at Lake Lucy

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1. What types of trees are being used in the restoration (size, location and quality)?

The Landscape Plan will show the sizes and locations. Additionally, the minimum sizes allowed to comply with landscaping requirements are:  Deciduous overstory trees must be 2.5" in diameter; Ornamental trees much be 1.5" in diameter minimum; Evergreen trees may be a 6’ minimum to count as an ornamental or an 8’ minimum to be counted as an overstory tree.

2. Did the retaining wall and/or trees and single house by the pond get moved after the original plan approval?

Final retaining wall locations were approved with the 100% grading plans associated with the Grading Development Contract approved by City Council on 10/12/20. There were some adjustments to final retaining wall locations from the original plans approved by City Council on 9/14/20 based on staff comments, which were presented on the 9/14 recommendations.

3. When was the (grading) plan approved?

The original grading plan was approved and accepted by City Council on 9/14/20 which included the recommendations of staff, along with all other plans and specifications. 100% plans were approved by staff and accepted by City Council on 10/12/20.

4. How high are the retaining walls?

Retaining walls on site vary but range from a maximum of 4’ to a maximum of 12’. There is a total of seven retaining walls associated with this development.

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Utility Billing

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1. How does a new resident sign up for utility billing?

All new residents of the City of Chanhassen need to complete a New Resident Application and return it to city hall. This application is necessary to ensure the correct resident is receiving the bills for services rendered at the properties located within the City of Chanhassen. Any questions can be directed to the Utility Billing Department at (952) 227-1144, or email utilitybilling@ci.chanhassen.mn.us.
New Resident Application

2. How often do I receive a utility bill?

Residents can choose to have their utility bill sent on either a monthly or quarterly basis by regular mail or electronically delivered by email. Download and complete the Application for a Change in Billing form. Not all residents have the same month or quarter for billing; your billing is determined by your place of residence with the City.

Application for a change in billing

3. How can I pay my utility bill?

Automatic Payment Plan (ACH). By signing up for the city's ACH program, the amount of your bill will automatically be deducted from your checking or savings account on the due date.

Online Bill Pay. View your account history and to pay your city utility bill online.
Auto Pay / Billing Change

4. What services am I being billed for?

-Sanitary Sewer, if connected to city sewer
-Storm Water Management, all parcels within the city receive this charge
-Water Test, if connected to city water
-Water, if connected to city water

5. I own an empty piece of land, why do I still receive a bill?

The bill you receive is a Storm Water Management fee. This is a charge that all properties within the city receive, regardless of the stage of development on the land.

6. Why am I getting charged for a storm water management fee if I'm not connected to water?

In 1990, the City of Chanhassen adopted a quarterly charge to all properties in Chanhassen to help pay for the maintenance, monitoring and improvements to protect Chanhassen’s 11 lakes, four creeks and 420 wetlands. Residential properties receive a uniform flat fee. Commercial properties receive a higher rate based on land classification and lot size.

7. How can I check that my bill is accurate?

As a homeowner you are able to check your meter to calculate your usage at any time. The meter is generally located downstairs or in a utility room, where the water enters your home. The City of Chanhassen rounds to the nearest 1,000 gallon. This number is listed on your bill under "Current" as the current or most recent read we received from your meter.

8. It's the first bill of the year, why did my sewer charge go up?

For the first billing each year, the sewer charge is reset based on your water use in the first quarter. This is the maximum you will be charged for sewer during any quarter that year. If you use less water during a quarter, the sewer charge will go down based on your water use for that bill. In the summer, when water use is usually higher, the sewer maximum has already been set so you won't be paying sanitary sewer charges for your outside water use.

9. How is my consumption listed on the bill?

Consumption is listed in 1,000 gallon increments. If your bill shows a "CONS" of 32, your quarterly consumption is 32,000 gallons of water.

10. I haven't used any water, how come I'm still getting a bill?

Any property that is connected to, and has available for use, water and sewer utilities, will receive a minimum service charge.

11. How do I cancel my utility service if I am moving out of my residence?

Call the Utility Billing department at 952-227-1144 or email utilitybilling@ci.chanhassen.mn.us the changes to. Please have the following information available to ensure the account is updated correctly:
-The address or account number of the property
-The date the change of possession is taking place
-The name of the new owners, if available
-Your forwarding address for a final bill to be mailed

12. Why is my bill higher than usual?

There are a number of reasons water usage increases:
-Do you have faucets that are dripping or leaking?
-Does the toilet fail to shut off after flushing? Is your water softener malfunctioning?
-Is this a billing period that may include outside summer watering?
All of these things can increase water consumption dramatically.

13. How is my water and sewer rate calculated?

View information on how rates are calculated:
Water and Sewer Rates

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Voting & Elections

Show All Answers

1. Where do I vote?

Use this link to locate your polling place.

2. How do I get an absentee ballot?

Visit this site for instructions on receiving an absentee ballot.

3. How do I file for city office?

The information on this site will help you file for city office.

4. Where can I see a sample ballot for the upcoming election?

Use this site to find a sample ballot.

5. How do I register to vote?

Use this site for information on how to register to vote.

6. How do I become an election judge?

Use this information to help you sign up to be an election judge.

7. Where can I find Chanhassen's election results?

View this site to find election results.