Show All Answers

1. Which holidays will affect my pickup day?

The city of Valparaiso observes only 6 holidays throughout the year: New Years Day, Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. For more information, click here.

2. Who is responsible for dead/poor health trees in the right of way?

If a tree in the right of way appears to be dead or in poor health, please contact Public Works at 462-4612 and request an inspection. Any necessary pruning or removal will be performed by Public Works. For more information, click here.

3. Who is responsible for repairing sidewalks?

Public Works has conducted inspections on all city sidewalks and necessary repairs/replacement are prioritized according to severity.  Homeowners may inquire if their sidewalk is included in scheduled work. If not, an inspection may be requested as conditions may have declined. Homeowners may replace the sidewalk at their own expense if replacement is not scheduled by Public Works. If you would like to replace your sidewalk at your own expense, please contact Public Works first. 

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4. How do I get a recycling container?

Please contact our office at (219)462-4612.

5. How often does the city sweep the streets?

All city streets are swept at least twice each year.

6. Can I place a Dumpster in the street?

Any resident wishing to place a Dumpster in a city street, alley or right of way, must file a Dumpster Permit with Public Works. There is no cost. The permit should be completed 48 hours in advance of placement and will require approval by the director. Your waste hauler must have proof of insurance and the Dumpster must be marked with reflective tape or barricades. Find the Dumpster Permit, here.

7. All of my trash won't fit in the container. What do I do?

Recycling is a great way to reduce your trash output, however, we know there are times when an extra pick up is necessary for larger items. Contact Public Works, (219) 462-4612 if you do put anything outside of your container. All items should only be placed out for collection on your trash day.

8. I believe a traffic intersection is unsafe. Will Public Works put up more signs?

Any additional signs or change in traffic control must be recommended by the Board of Traffic and Safety. Please address your concern in writing to: City of Valparaiso, Attn: Board of Traffic and Safety, 166 W. Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383.

9. The street light by my house won't come on. Who should I contact?

NIPSCO maintains the dusk to dawn lights in the city. You can contact them at 1-800-464-7726 or visit their website here.

10. Do I have to move my car off the street when it snows?

Yes. City Ordinance states that after any accumulation of 2 inches or more residents are required to remove their vehicle from the roadway until snow has been cleared.

11. Who picks up road kill?

Please call (219) 462-4612 and our crews will remove it off the street. The crews will not come onto residential property for pickup. If you find dead wildlife in your yard, notify the Porter County Health Department at 465-3525 for instructions on safe removal.

12. What do I do with grass clippings?

Grass should never be placed in your city trash or recycle containers. For more information, click here. 

13. Why haven’t you picked up my trash/recycling yet?

Trash and recycling may be picked up at anytime on your collection day. Please have all items out by 7:00 am for pick up to ensure pickup.

14. The snowplow damaged my lawn. Who is responsible?

In spring, Public Works will repair the damage to the lawn, filling low spots with raked topsoil and spreading grass seed. Contact Public Works at (219) 462-4612. 

15. What should I do with Hazardous Waste?

Several times during the year the Recycling & Waste Reduction District of Porter County has collection events. For more information, click here. 

16. Do I live in the City service area for trash & recycle pickup?

Trash & Recycling are broken down into 4 different days/sections.For more information, click here. 

17. Is there a fee for extra trash? How am I billed?

Yes, extra trash in excess of one (1) cubic yard will be charged $15 per cubic yard. Extra Trash fees will be a separate line item on your utility bill. For any extra trash/large pickup, please contact Public Works at (219) 462-4612 or visit our website, here.