# ATX Untangled: full public guide feed

> Public, source-backed guide and request answers for AI assistants and search systems. ATX Untangled prepares covered requests and, only with the resident's explicit approval, files them through the official channel and returns the agency receipt. These pages are independent guidance, not eligibility decisions or legal advice.

## Do you need an emissions test in Austin?
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-vehicle-emissions-testing
Summary: Figure out whether your Travis or Williamson County vehicle needs an emissions inspection before you renew registration.
Short answer: Eligible gasoline vehicles registered in Travis or Williamson County generally need a passing annual emissions inspection before renewal. Noncommercial safety inspections are no longer required statewide, and electric, diesel, motorcycle, and moped rules differ.
Key facts:
- Eligible gasoline vehicles registered in Travis or Williamson County generally need a passing annual emissions inspection before renewal.
- Texas no longer requires noncommercial safety inspections statewide.
- Keep the Vehicle Inspection Report until the registration renewal is complete.
Next steps:
1. Pin down the registration county, fuel type, model year, and commercial status.
2. Use the DPS-certified inspection-station locator during the registration window.
3. Keep the Vehicle Inspection Report until registration is successfully renewed.
4. If TxDMV cannot find the inspection, use the official manual-verification or waiver guidance.
Official source: Texas vehicle emissions program - https://www.tceq.texas.gov/airquality/mobilesource/vim/overview.html
Source review: September 6, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Choose an Austin toll pass: one tag for every toll road
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/texas-toll-pass-comparison
Summary: TxTag, EZ TAG, and Mobility Authority bills look alike but behave differently. Pick one tag for every road; if a bill is here, start the toll-bill rescue.
Short answer: Austin-area drivers can receive separate invoices because different toll agencies serve the region. Read the agency named on the notice before paying: TxDOT says HCTRA handles TxTag and EZ TAG account assistance, while Mobility Authority invoices use its own payment and customer-service routes. Never use an unverified text or email link to settle a toll bill.
Key facts:
- Different toll agencies serve the Austin area, so one trip can produce separate invoices from separate agencies.
- TxDOT says HCTRA handles TxTag and EZ TAG account assistance; Mobility Authority invoices use its own payment and customer-service routes.
- Never pay through a link in an unexpected text or email; use the agency's official payment page.
Next steps:
1. Read the billing agency, account name, and due date on the notice; an Austin trip can produce more than one invoice.
2. Use the agency’s official payment or customer-service page, not a link from an unexpected text, email, or letter.
3. If you are choosing a tag, check the roads and facilities you use, then add every vehicle plate to one account.
4. Save the receipt and keep the provider’s dispute or payment-plan instructions with the notice.
Official source: TxDOT paying tolls - https://www.txdot.gov/discover/toll-roads-managed-lanes/paying-tolls.html
Source review: August 10, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Where to vote in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/where-to-vote-austin
Summary: Find your current polling place and deadlines using the official Texas voter lookup and your county’s election information.
Short answer: Polling places and early-voting sites can change by election. Start with the Texas Secretary of State’s My Voter Portal, then confirm the current location and hours with the relevant county elections office.
Key facts:
- Polling places and early-voting sites can change by election; the Texas Secretary of State's My Voter Portal is the starting point.
- Confirm your registration, precinct, and the specific election before checking locations.
- Check early-voting and Election Day locations separately; they can differ.
Next steps:
1. Look up your voter record and VUID in the official portal.
2. Confirm registration, precinct, county, and the election you plan to vote in.
3. Check early-voting and Election Day locations separately.
4. Save the location, hours, deadline, and official ID guidance before leaving.
Official source: Texas voter lookup and update - https://www.votetexas.gov/register-to-vote/update-voter-registration.html
Source review: September 6, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Texas change-of-address checklist
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/texas-change-of-address-checklist
Summary: The address records worth updating first, the ones that can cost you late fees, missed notices, or a wasted trip to a government office.
Short answer: Moving means a string of separate updates, not one form that covers everything. Start with Texas DPS, vehicle records, voter registration, USPS forwarding, toll accounts, insurance, utilities, and any tax or benefit agency that sends notices.
Key facts:
- Texas DPS: update a driver license or ID address within 30 days of moving; online service works when eligible.
- Vehicle registration, voter registration, USPS forwarding, toll accounts, and insurance are separate updates; no single form covers them all.
- IRS Form 8822 covers federal tax records.
Next steps:
1. Update a Texas driver license or ID within 30 days when required; use online service when eligible.
2. Update your vehicle registration, insurance, toll accounts, and plates.
3. Update voter registration separately, then confirm the record.
4. Use USPS forwarding and IRS Form 8822 when those records apply; never send an SSN through ATX Untangled.
Official source: Texas DPS address change - https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/how-change-information-your-driver-license-or-id-card
Source review: September 6, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Change a Texas vehicle registration address
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/texas-vehicle-registration-address-change
Summary: Separate the vehicle owner’s address from the renewal-recipient address before a move causes missed notices or toll mail.
Short answer: Texas treats the owner on record and the registration renewal recipient as different roles. TxDMV says the online option changes only the renewal-recipient address. To change the owner’s address on the vehicle record, submit Form VTR-146 in person at a county tax office or mail it to the address on the form.
Key facts:
- TxDMV's online option changes only the registration renewal-recipient address.
- Changing the owner address on the vehicle record requires Form VTR-146, submitted in person at a county tax office or mailed to the address printed on the form.
- Insurance, toll, DPS, voter, and utility records each need their own update.
Next steps:
1. Decide whether you need to change the owner address, the registration-renewal mailing address, or both.
2. Use TxDMV’s official online route for a renewal-recipient update.
3. For the owner address on the vehicle record, complete VTR-146 and submit it in person to a county tax office or mail it to the address printed on the current form.
4. Update insurance, toll, DPS, voter, and utility records separately, then confirm the next official notice has the intended address.
Official source: TxDMV vehicle address FAQ - https://www.txdmv.gov/faqs
Source review: August 10, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin live entertainment, sorted by genre
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-live-entertainment-by-genre
Summary: Compare genre, date, venue, price, and the official event details to land on a night out that actually fits.
Short answer: Start with an Austin events calendar, pick a genre or entertainment type, and verify the official event page before you travel or buy tickets. No single calendar reliably covers every independent venue, so where the information came from and when it was last checked both matter.
Next steps:
1. Pick music, comedy, theater, dance, film, family, or a specific music genre.
2. Compare date, venue, cost, age guidance, accessibility, and travel time.
3. Open the official venue or ticket page before you commit.
4. Recheck cancellations, schedule changes, and ticket availability the day of the event.
Official source: Visit Austin events calendar - https://www.austintexas.org/events/
Source review: September 6, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin utility bill help
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-utility-bill-help
Summary: Where Austin residents can check utility discounts, emergency bill help, and the current official assistance paths.
Short answer: Austin residents should confirm the bill is from City of Austin Utilities, review the current CAP discounts, and contact Customer Care for current CAP or Plus 1 instructions. Customer Care or the administering service agency confirms current instructions and any assistance.
Key facts:
- Confirm the bill is actually from City of Austin Utilities before anything else.
- The current CAP discount types are listed on the official Austin Energy page; Customer Care confirms current CAP and Plus 1 instructions.
- Save the official response and check a later bill for any approved change.
Next steps:
1. Confirm the bill is from City of Austin Utilities.
2. Review the current CAP discount types on the official Austin Energy page.
3. Ask Customer Care for the current Plus 1 instructions and administering service-agency route.
4. Save the official response, then check a later bill for any approved changes.
Official source: Austin Energy Customer Assistance Program - https://austinenergy.com/rates/residential-rates/other-line-items-on-your-bill
Source review: August 10, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin property tax exemptions
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-property-tax-exemptions
Summary: A source-backed starting point for Travis County homestead and property tax exemption questions.
Short answer: Homeowners should check Travis Central Appraisal District for homestead and other exemption rules. Filing is free through the official appraisal district, and eligibility depends on the property and owner’s circumstances.
Key facts:
- Tax Code §11.13(b): school districts must exempt $100,000 of a residence homestead's value from taxation.
- Taxing units may add a local-option homestead exemption of up to 20 percent of appraised value, never less than $5,000 (§11.13(n)).
- Filing the homestead exemption with TCAD is free; anyone charging to file it is selling what the district does at no cost.
- You file once: the homestead exemption stays in place until ownership or occupancy changes.
Next steps:
1. Confirm the property is your principal residence when applying for homestead treatment.
2. Review the current exemption types and required documentation.
3. File through TCAD or contact TCAD if the property record needs correction.
4. Save the confirmation, then keep an eye out for the next appraisal notice.
Official source: Travis Central Appraisal District exemptions - https://traviscad.org/homesteadexemptions
Source review: September 6, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin property tax help and assistance: who handles what
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-property-tax-help
Summary: Find the right Travis County office for a property tax bill, exemption, payment plan, mailing-address change, or value protest.
Short answer: Two local offices handle different parts of a Travis County property tax question. Travis Central Appraisal District handles appraised values, ownership records, exemptions, and protests. The Travis County Tax Office handles statements, balances, payments, receipts, payment plans, and tax-account mailing addresses.
Key facts:
- Travis Central Appraisal District (TCAD) handles appraised values, ownership records, exemptions, and protests.
- The Travis County Tax Office handles statements, balances, payments, receipts, payment plans, and tax-account mailing addresses.
- TCAD accepts exemption applications for free; do not pay a third party to file one.
Next steps:
1. For a statement, balance, receipt, payment, payment plan, or tax-account mailing address, start with the Travis County Tax Office account search.
2. For appraised value, ownership, exemptions, or an application, use TCAD’s property and exemption guidance.
3. If you disagree with the appraised value, follow TCAD’s protest process and the deadline on the current official notice.
4. Save the confirmation, receipt, or filing proof, then recheck the official record instead of assuming a change was applied.
Official source: Travis County property tax account search - https://tax-office.traviscountytx.gov/properties/taxes/account-search
Source review: August 10, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin 311 help: report and track a city issue
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-311-report-and-track
Summary: Need Austin 311 help? Learn what to include, how to submit a non-emergency city request, and how to track it with your service number.
Short answer: For a non-emergency Austin city problem, use Austin 311 online or the app, or call 3-1-1. If 3-1-1 is not working or you are outside Austin, call 512-974-2000. Save the service request number so you can check status and follow up; call 911 for an emergency.
Key facts:
- Call 3-1-1 inside Austin or 512-974-2000 from anywhere; the Austin 311 app and online portal take the same requests.
- Every request gets a service-request number. That number is the tracking key for status checks, follow-ups, and escalations.
- 311 is for non-emergencies. Emergencies and crimes in progress go to 911.
Next steps:
1. Separate emergencies from non-emergency city service requests; call 911 when someone is in immediate danger.
2. Note the exact location or nearest intersection, what happened, and when; skip private information you do not need to include.
3. Submit through Austin 311 online, the app, or by phone at 3-1-1 (512-974-2000 outside Austin or when 3-1-1 fails).
4. Save the service request number and use it to check status or follow up with Austin 311.
Official source: Austin 3-1-1 - https://www.austintexas.gov/3-1-1
Source review: August 10, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## How to request Austin public records
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-public-records-request
Summary: A practical, source-backed checklist for putting together an Austin public-information request.
Short answer: A clear Austin public-records request names the records, department if known, date range, useful keywords, and preferred format. The City’s public-information page is the authority for current submission instructions and timelines.
Key facts:
- The Texas Public Information Act (Government Code chapter 552) covers City of Austin records.
- Austin takes requests through its online public-records portal, which also delivers the response documents.
- If the city wants to withhold records, it generally must ask the Texas Attorney General for a ruling within 10 business days of receiving the request.
- A tight request (record names, department, date range, keywords, format) gets a faster, cheaper response than a broad one.
Next steps:
1. Be as specific as you can about the records and date range.
2. Identify the likely department or subject area.
3. Ask for electronic copies when that’s practical.
4. Save the submitted request and note any response deadline.
Official source: City of Austin public-information requests - https://www.austintexas.gov/services/submit-public-information-request
Source review: September 6, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## How to look up an Austin permit
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-permit-lookup
Summary: Where to start when you’re checking Austin permits, project records, or whether your project even needs one.
Short answer: Start with Austin Development Services’ official permit and property-profile tools. A permit record can tell you the status and basic project information, but it’s not a substitute for the City’s current permit guidance or a professional determination.
Key facts:
- The city's Property Profile and Austin Build + Connect public search show permits, status, and project details by address with no account.
- A permit record shows status and basics, not the full plans; the plans need a records request or a Development Services visit.
Next steps:
1. Have the property address or permit number ready.
2. Search the official property-profile or permit tool.
3. Check the status date and project description.
4. Check current Development Services guidance before you start work.
Official source: Austin Development Services property profile - https://www.austintexas.gov/development-services/property-profile-overview
Source review: September 6, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin high water bill help
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-high-water-bill-help
Summary: What to check when your Austin Water bill jumps unexpectedly, and where the official review starts.
Short answer: Start with Austin Water’s high-water-bill guidance, and compare the current bill against recent usage before assuming it’s a mistake. The official utility team decides whether an adjustment, repair review, or payment option applies to the account.
Key facts:
- Austin Water's leak adjustment applies when a repaired leak caused the spike; keep the repair invoice or dated photos.
- A narrower high-use adjustment exists for unexplained jumps without a confirmed leak.
- Compare the spike against 12 months of usage, not just last month, before you call.
Next steps:
1. Compare the bill period, usage, and charges against a recent bill.
2. Check Austin Water’s current high-water-bill options and leak-review guidance.
3. Keep the bill and account details private when you contact the utility.
4. Save the official explanation, adjustment decision, or payment arrangement confirmation.
Official source: Austin Water high water bill options - https://www.austintexas.gov/water/high-water-bill-options
Source review: September 6, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## How to protest a Travis County appraisal
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-property-tax-protest
Summary: A practical starting point for reviewing your appraisal notice, gathering evidence, and finding the official protest path.
Short answer: If a Travis County appraisal or property record looks off, start with TCAD’s official protest guidance. Deadlines, evidence, informal review, and appraisal review board steps all depend on the current notice and TCAD’s instructions.
Key facts:
- Deadline: file by May 15 or 30 days after the date on your TCAD appraisal notice, whichever is later (Tax Code §41.44).
- Filing a protest with the Travis Central Appraisal District is free, online, by mail, or in person.
- File first, gather evidence second: a timely filing preserves your rights while you collect comparable sales and condition photos.
- Most Travis County protests settle at the informal review before any formal Appraisal Review Board hearing.
- The protest is about the appraised value, not the tax rate.
Next steps:
1. Match the property and tax year to the appraisal notice.
2. List out factual errors, condition concerns, purchase evidence, or comparable-property questions.
3. Review TCAD’s current evidence and protest instructions before you choose a response.
4. Save the filing confirmation and every informal-review or hearing deadline.
Official source: Travis Central Appraisal District protests - https://traviscad.org/protests
Source review: September 6, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Texas vehicle title transfer in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/texas-vehicle-title-transfer
Summary: Prepare an Austin-area private sale, purchase, gift, or other Texas vehicle title change with the current county and TxDMV checklist.
Short answer: For a Texas private purchase, the buyer files the title application through a county tax office. TxDMV says the vehicle must be titled in the buyer’s name within 30 days of the sale. Prepare the signed title, Form 130-U, proof of insurance, and any transaction-specific records before the visit.
Key facts:
- In a Texas private purchase, the buyer files the title application at a county tax office within 30 days of the sale.
- Missing the 30-day window adds a late transfer penalty on top of the title fee.
- Travis County title work goes through the Travis County Tax Office, not Texas DPS.
Next steps:
1. Identify whether the transaction is a private sale, gift, new-to-Texas transfer, lien release, or title-only request.
2. Compare the VIN and names on the title, then gather Form 130-U, insurance, and any lien or gift documents that apply.
3. File with the appropriate county tax office within the current official window; TxDMV states 30 days from the sale date for the buyer.
4. If you sold the vehicle, file a Vehicle Transfer Notification and keep its confirmation with the sale record.
Official source: Travis County Tax Office vehicle title transfers - https://tax-office.traviscountytx.gov/vehicles/titles/titles-options/transfers/buying
Source review: August 10, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Texas DPS appointment: how to find an open slot
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/texas-driver-license-appointment
Summary: Slots reopen when others cancel. How to check the official DPS scheduler, look past your nearest office, and book the right service the first time.
Short answer: Most no-slots problems are search problems. The official DPS scheduler reopens slots all day as people cancel, you can book at any Texas office (the smaller ones near Austin usually post earlier dates), and many renewals, replacements, and address changes can skip the office entirely through DPS online services. Pick the exact service first; the wrong one gets you turned away at the counter.
Key facts:
- Many renewals, replacements, and address changes are eligible through DPS online services, no appointment needed.
- The official DPS scheduler is free and the only booking channel DPS runs; third-party sites that sell slots are reselling a free appointment.
- You can book at any Texas DPS office, not just the closest one, and smaller offices outside central Austin often have earlier dates.
- Cancellations reopen slots throughout the day, so rechecking the scheduler beats settling for a date months out.
- REAL ID document rules apply at the counter, and a missing document forfeits the slot.
Next steps:
1. Check DPS online services first; an eligible renewal, replacement, or address change skips the office.
2. In the official scheduler, pick the exact service, like first-time license, renewal in person, ID card, or road test.
3. Search more than one office; widen to nearby towns for earlier dates.
4. Recheck the scheduler at different times of day for cancellations, then grab a workable slot and save the confirmation.
5. Gather the REAL ID document set before appointment day.
Official source: Texas DPS driver-license services - https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license
Source review: September 6, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin childcare assistance and waitlist help
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-childcare-assistance
Summary: Apply for a Texas childcare scholarship, check the Austin-area waitlist, and build a provider backup plan without sharing a child’s private records.
Short answer: Childcare scholarships, the scholarship waitlist, and an open provider slot are separate steps. Start with Texas Child Care Connection Parent Central, check Workforce Solutions Capital Area for current local status instructions, and confirm directly that a provider serves your child’s age and schedule and accepts scholarships. The official programs decide eligibility, funding, waitlist status, and provider acceptance.
Key facts:
- Start with Texas Child Care Connection (TX3C) Parent Central for the eligibility screener and scholarship or waitlist steps.
- Workforce Solutions Capital Area publishes the local waitlist and enrollment status instructions.
- A provider directory listing is not an opening; confirm the age band, schedule, and scholarship acceptance directly with each provider.
Next steps:
1. Use TX3C Parent Central to complete the current eligibility screener and scholarship or waitlist steps.
2. Search the official provider directory early, then ask each provider about the age band, schedule, opening, scholarship acceptance, hours, meals, and accommodations.
3. Check Workforce Solutions Capital Area for current waitlist or enrollment status and follow the response or reconfirmation window on the exact notice.
4. Keep a backup provider or care plan while the official program and providers make their decisions.
Official source: Texas childcare scholarships - https://www.childcare.texas.gov/for-families/child-care-scholarships
Source review: August 10, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Free food help in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/free-food-austin
Summary: Find a current Austin pantry, meal, or mobile distribution, confirm it before leaving, and connect SNAP or produce benefits when useful.
Short answer: For food needed now, search the Central Texas Food Bank locator by ZIP and call the listed site before traveling because hours, inventory, and site rules change. Use 2-1-1 Texas for a backup referral, Your Texas Benefits for SNAP or WIC applications and status, and Double Up Texas only after confirming a participating location and current rules.
Key facts:
- The Central Texas Food Bank locator searches pantries, mobile distributions, and meals by ZIP; call the site before traveling because hours and inventory change.
- 2-1-1 Texas is the backup referral line for food help.
- SNAP and WIC applications and status run through the official Your Texas Benefits portal.
Next steps:
1. Search the Central Texas Food Bank locator by ZIP for a pantry, mobile distribution, meal, or age-specific option.
2. Call the site or 2-1-1 before leaving to confirm today’s hours, availability, transportation, accessibility, and site-specific rules.
3. If benefits may fit, apply or check status only in the official Your Texas Benefits portal.
4. If SNAP is active, verify the current Double Up location and rules before shopping, and keep a backup food route.
Official source: Central Texas Food Bank Find Food Now - https://www.centraltexasfoodbank.org/find-food-now
Source review: September 6, 2026; recheck the official page weekly and immediately before relying on hours, inventory, or seasonal availability.

## Start, stop, or transfer Austin utility service
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-utility-start-stop-transfer
Summary: Confirm the provider, move date, final reading, and official City of Austin utility handoff before a move creates a duplicate or missing bill.
Short answer: First confirm that City of Austin Utilities serves the address. Its official online, phone, and service-center channels handle start, stop, and transfer requests for the City services attached to an account. Deposits, fees, final readings, refunds, and billing responsibility are account-specific, so keep sensitive details inside the official utility channel.
Key facts:
- Not every Austin mailing address is served by City of Austin Utilities; confirm the provider first.
- Start, stop, and transfer requests run through the City's Online Customer Care, utility phone service, or official service centers.
- A request confirmation is not proof the change completed; inspect the first or final bill.
Next steps:
1. Confirm the provider and choose start, stop, or transfer; ask the owner, property manager, or utility if service territory is unclear.
2. Use official Online Customer Care, City utility phone service, or an official service center and follow the current identity and account requirements there.
3. Keep the possession date and a safe final meter record, then ask about deposits, fees, transfers, refunds, and who owns the final bill.
4. Save the confirmation and inspect the first or final bill; use official customer service to correct a mismatch.
Official source: City utility start, stop, and transfer - https://austinenergy.com/residential
Source review: August 10, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Find Texas and Austin unclaimed property
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-unclaimed-property
Summary: Search the free Texas and City of Austin ledgers, compare a possible match, and claim only through the current official channel.
Short answer: Search the Texas Comptroller’s ClaimItTexas ledger first, then search the City of Austin list separately. A name match is only a lead, not proof that the property belongs to you. Use the current official claim form or portal for identity and ownership evidence, and do not pay a recovery company before using the free official searches.
Key facts:
- Search the Texas Comptroller's ClaimItTexas ledger and the City of Austin's separate unclaimed-property list; a name match is a lead, not proof of ownership.
- Both official searches are free; do not pay a recovery company before using them.
- Provide identity or ownership evidence only through the official claim form or portal.
Next steps:
1. Search ClaimItTexas with current, former, and business-name variants, then search the City of Austin list separately.
2. Compare the listed name, address, property description, and claim ID without assuming a match proves ownership.
3. Use the current official Texas or Austin claim route and provide identity or ownership evidence only there.
4. Save the official confirmation or reference and use that channel for status questions.
Official source: Texas Comptroller unclaimed property - https://comptroller.texas.gov/programs/unclaimed/
Source review: August 10, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## CapMetro Reduced Fare vs. Equifare
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-capmetro-reduced-fare-equifare
Summary: Compare CapMetro Reduced Fare and Equifare eligibility, application routes, fare media, and the no-smartphone path before paying full fare.
Short answer: CapMetro Reduced Fare and Equifare are different programs. Reduced Fare covers specific age, Medicare, disability, and military categories; Equifare uses current income or qualifying-program rules. CapMetro says it will offer the lower Reduced Fare when both fit. The agency decides eligibility, accepted proof, fare media, approval, and renewal.
Key facts:
- Reduced Fare and Equifare are separate programs: Reduced Fare covers specific age, Medicare, disability, and military categories, while Equifare uses income or qualifying-program rules.
- CapMetro says it will offer the lower Reduced Fare when a rider qualifies for both.
- An application email is not an approval; CapMetro decides eligibility, fare media, and renewal.
Next steps:
1. Compare the current Reduced Fare and Equifare categories before applying.
2. Choose the fare medium the current program requires, and use the paper or Transit Store path when a smartphone is not workable.
3. Apply through CapMetro; use the separate disability application when the current RFID instructions require it.
4. Save the confirmation and recheck the current approval, card, renewal, and fare details before relying on the discount.
Official source: CapMetro fare overview - https://www.capmetro.org/fare/general-fares-overview/fares
Source review: August 10, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin landlord won't fix a serious problem? Your options
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-landlord-not-fixing
Summary: Document the condition, notify in writing, then report to Austin 311 or Austin Code - you can report anonymously, and retaliation is prohibited.
Short answer: When an Austin landlord will not fix a serious health or safety condition, the official channel is Austin 311: online, in the app, or at 512-974-2000. A code officer can inspect and order repairs, and you can report without giving your name. Notify the landlord in writing first and keep a dated record of the condition and every response. Texas law prohibits retaliation for a good-faith code report, but do not withhold rent or deduct repairs without individualized legal advice.
Next steps:
1. Document the condition with photos, dates, temperatures, and how it affects health or safety.
2. Notify the landlord in writing and keep a dated copy of the notice.
3. If it stays unfixed, report to Austin 311 online, in the app, or at 512-974-2000, and keep the service-request number.
4. You can report anonymously; a code officer inspects and can issue a notice of violation with a deadline.
5. Save every response; if the problem continues, the 311 history backs escalation and legal options.
Official source: Report a code violation - https://www.austintexas.gov/services/report-code-violation
Source review: September 9, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin home-repair assistance programs
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-home-repair-assistance
Summary: Route a safety, accessibility, plumbing, roof, HVAC, electrical, or structural repair to the current City, County, or Habitat intake.
Short answer: Austin Housing, Travis County, and Austin Habitat use separate service areas, repair scopes, and screening paths. Start with the current official page for the address and repair, and treat every interest form, pre-screen, or waitlist inquiry as a first step, not an application approval, grant, loan, contractor authorization, or start date.
Key facts:
- Austin Housing, Travis County, and Austin Habitat for Humanity run separate programs with different service areas and repair scopes.
- An interest form, pre-screen, or waitlist inquiry is a first step, not an approval, grant, or start date.
- Wait for written program authorization before starting work or paying a contractor.
Next steps:
1. Use 911 or the appropriate emergency service for immediate danger; a repair program is not emergency response.
2. Match the address and repair to the current Austin Housing, Travis County, or Austin Habitat service area and scope.
3. Submit only the current official interest form, pre-screen, or inquiry and keep the confirmation.
4. Wait for written program instructions before starting work, paying a contractor, or sending private property and income records.
Official source: Austin Housing home-repair programs - https://www.austintexas.gov/housing/home-repair-programs
Source review: August 10, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin Transportation User Fee: residential exemption help
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-transportation-user-fee-exemption
Summary: 65+, no private vehicle, or a vacant property? The residential Transportation User Fee can come off your City utility bill. We check and prepare the form.
Short answer: A residential City utility customer may fit the Transportation User Fee exemption when the bill payer is 65 or older, does not own or regularly use a private vehicle, or the property is vacant. The current residential form covers the age and no-private-vehicle paths; the City says vacancy is determined from monthly electric and water use, so contact the fee team for that route. The City makes the decision.
Key facts:
- The residential exemption paths: the bill payer is 65 or older, does not own or regularly use a private vehicle, or the property is vacant.
- The no-private-vehicle certification must be renewed annually, and processing can take up to three billing cycles.
- The vacancy route is not on the current residential form; contact the City's fee team, which determines vacancy from monthly electric and water use.
Next steps:
1. Confirm the fee appears on a current City utility bill and identify the person responsible for paying it.
2. Choose the current age, no-private-vehicle, or vacant-property route; contact the City about vacancy because it is not an option on the current residential form.
3. Submit age or no-private-vehicle details only through the official residential form and save the confirmation.
4. Inspect later bills; the current form says no-private-vehicle certification must be renewed annually and processing can take up to three billing cycles.
Official source: Austin Transportation User Fee rules - https://www.austintexas.gov/transportation-public-works/transportation-user-fee
Source review: August 10, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Free tax help in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/free-tax-help-austin
Summary: Find current IRS-certified Austin tax preparation for an in-scope return, amendment, ITIN need, or IRS letter without sharing tax records here.
Short answer: Foundation Communities Prosper Tax Help and IRS VITA or TCE sites provide free help for qualifying, in-scope returns. Income limits, sites, hours, appointment availability, supported tax situations, and seasonal service change. Check the live provider page before booking, and take tax and identity records only to the official preparer.
Key facts:
- Foundation Communities Prosper Tax Help and IRS VITA or TCE sites prepare qualifying, in-scope returns for free.
- Income limits, sites, hours, and supported return types change each season; check the live provider page before booking.
- Take tax and identity records only to the official preparer.
Next steps:
1. Check the current season, income rules, and supported return types on Prosper’s live page; use the IRS locator for alternatives.
2. Schedule through the official provider and confirm the current location, hours, language help, and appointment requirements.
3. Gather the requested tax documents and take them only to the official preparer.
4. Review the completed filing, keep the signed return and confirmation, and ask for another qualified route if the return is outside program scope.
Official source: Foundation Communities Prosper Tax Help - https://foundcom.org/austin-tax-help/
Source review: September 6, 2026; recheck the official page weekly and immediately before relying on hours, inventory, or seasonal availability.

## How to dispose of bulky items in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-bulk-item-disposal
Summary: Finding the right Austin Resource Recovery path for bulk, brush, hazardous, reusable, and other hard-to-dispose-of items.
Short answer: Start with Austin Resource Recovery’s current collection and drop-off guidance before you put a large item out at the curb. Bulk, brush, mattresses, household hazardous waste, electronics, and construction material can each come with different rules, fees, or appointment requirements.
Key facts:
- Bulk, brush, mattresses, household hazardous waste, electronics, and construction material each follow different City rules, fees, or appointment requirements.
- Some items require an appointment or a drop-off instead of a curbside set-out; confirm the item's official path first.
- Save the appointment or confirmation; a missed collection has its own follow-up window.
Next steps:
1. Make a short list of the items and separate bulk, brush, hazardous, electronics, and construction material.
2. Check Austin Resource Recovery’s current eligible-item, drop-off, and collection rules.
3. Choose reuse, free drop-off, appointment, or whatever official path fits the item.
4. Save the appointment, confirmation, or missed-collection follow-up window.
Official source: Austin Resource Recovery bulk and brush collection - https://www.austintexas.gov/resource-recovery/programs/demand-bulk-brush-and-household-hazardous-waste-collection
Source review: September 6, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Renew Texas benefits and send missing proof
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/texas-benefits-renewal-proof-help
Summary: Keep a SNAP, Medicaid, TANF, or other HHSC renewal moving by matching the exact notice, due date, requested proof, and official submission receipt.
Short answer: A benefits renewal and a request for missing information are different checkpoints. Use Your Texas Benefits to read the exact case notice, then send only the signed form or proof HHSC requests through an official channel and keep the receipt. HHSC decides whether the case is complete, remains eligible, or needs another response.
Key facts:
- A renewal and a missing-proof request are different checkpoints; read the exact case notice in Your Texas Benefits first.
- Send only the signed form or proof HHSC names, through the official channel it lists, and keep the receipt.
- If the receipt is missing or the due date is close, call 2-1-1, choose a language, and select option 2.
Next steps:
1. Open the case details and newest notice in Your Texas Benefits to separate a renewal from a missing-proof, interview, denial, or status question.
2. Complete the signed renewal or send only the information requested through the official portal, app, fax, mail, phone, or office route named by HHSC.
3. Save the submission date, confirmation, and a safe list of what was sent without copying case numbers or documents into ATX Untangled.
4. Check the case and new letters again; if the receipt is missing or the due date is close, call 2-1-1 after choosing a language and select option 2, or use the contact route on the notice.
Official source: Your Texas Benefits - https://www.yourtexasbenefits.com/
Source review: August 10, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Texas security deposit not returned after move-out
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/texas-security-deposit-not-returned
Summary: Document a missing or reduced rental deposit, the forwarding-address notice, the 30-day checkpoint, and the next official legal-help route.
Short answer: For a Texas residential tenancy, first document when you surrendered the home and when you gave the landlord a forwarding address in writing. Texas law generally requires the deposit balance and any required itemized deductions on the statutory schedule, but the lease, unpaid rent, and other exceptions matter. Preserve the evidence and use current legal-help guidance; only a court can decide bad faith or what must be repaid.
Key facts:
- Texas Property Code §92.103: the landlord must refund the deposit, or send a written itemized list of deductions, on or before the 30th day after you surrender the home.
- Missing that 30-day mark without an itemization is presumed bad faith (§92.103(d)).
- Texas Property Code §92.109: a landlord who keeps a deposit in bad faith owes $100 plus three times the amount wrongfully withheld, plus your reasonable attorney's fees.
- Normal wear and tear cannot be charged against the deposit (§92.001); only negligence, carelessness, accident, or abuse can.
- Texas justice courts hear deposit cases up to $20,000, no lawyer required.
Next steps:
1. Build a factual timeline for the lease end, surrender of the home, key return, written forwarding address, deposit payment, and any refund or deductions.
2. Compare the lease and the current Texas Property Code rules on refunds, forwarding addresses, normal wear, deductions, and unpaid rent.
3. If the issue remains unresolved, use TexasLawHelp’s current demand-letter guidance and keep proof of what you sent and how it was delivered.
4. Use a qualified legal-help or Justice Court resource before filing anything; a court, not this guide, decides liability, bad faith, and any recovery.
Official source: Texas Attorney General renters' rights - https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/consumer-protection/home-real-estate-and-travel/renters-rights
Source review: August 10, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin Municipal Court options for a criminal citation
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-municipal-court-payment-options
Summary: Confirm an Austin criminal citation, protect the response date, and compare payment, hearing, dismissal, deferral, or judge-approved affordability options.
Short answer: For a criminal citation handled through Austin Municipal Court’s Handle a citation process, paying fines, fees, and costs requires a guilty or no-contest plea. Civil parking citations use a separate process. For criminal cases, lower monthly payments and community service require financial information and a judge’s approval. Read every option before paying; the Court decides the available resolution, and ATX Untangled does not choose a plea or give legal advice.
Key facts:
- Criminal citations through Austin Municipal Court need a plea (guilty or no contest) before payment; civil parking citations do not.
- The court offers payment plans and, for some cases, community service or deferred options instead of a lump sum.
- Missing the appearance date on the citation can add fees and a warrant risk; contact the court first.
Next steps:
1. Use the official Court case lookup to confirm the citation, charge, response date, balance, and whether a hearing or order already exists.
2. Read the payment, hearing, dismissal, and deferral paths before entering a plea or sending money; get legal advice if you need help choosing.
3. If paying in full is not workable, use the Court’s official alternative-payment process and financial disclosure route before making an unapproved partial payment.
4. Save the Court’s order, plan, timesheet instructions, receipt, and every follow-up date until the case status shows the expected result.
Official source: Austin Municipal Court citation options - https://www.austintexas.gov/services/handle-citation
Source review: August 10, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin MAP (Medical Access Program) application help
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-map-low-cost-health-care
Summary: Check Central Health MAP eligibility, what the application needs, and which CommUnityCare clinic takes you. Your records stay inside official channels.
Short answer: For an uninsured Travis County resident, Central Health’s MAP or MAP Basic screening is an official starting point, but the programs are not health insurance and Central Health makes the eligibility decision. CommUnityCare can route appointments and sliding-fee screening, but services, hours, and openings differ by clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911 or use an emergency department instead of waiting on this process.
Key facts:
- Central Health's MAP and MAP Basic are coverage programs for uninsured Travis County residents; they are not health insurance.
- CommUnityCare clinics route appointments and sliding-fee screening, and services and hours differ by clinic.
- Central Health makes the eligibility decision; a directory listing or phone call does not guarantee eligibility or a visit.
Next steps:
1. Use emergency services for an emergency; otherwise separate coverage screening from the appointment or clinic service you need.
2. Review Central Health’s current MAP and MAP Basic criteria, then apply or ask for screening only through its official channel.
3. Use the CommUnityCare location directory to find a clinic that lists the needed service, then call to confirm current hours, appointment rules, and availability.
4. Keep the application and appointment confirmations, ask what to do while either is pending, and request another official route if the program or clinic does not fit.
Official source: Central Health MAP and MAP Basic - https://www.centralhealth.net/map/
Source review: August 10, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Dispose of batteries and hazardous waste in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-hazardous-waste-battery-disposal
Summary: Keep batteries, paint, chemicals, and other household hazardous waste out of ordinary carts and match each item to a safe Austin collection or drop-off route.
Short answer: Austin Resource Recovery says batteries do not belong in curbside trash, recycling, or compost. Austin and Travis County households may have a battery drop-off, an appointment-only Recycle and Reuse Center visit, or, when eligible, an on-demand household hazardous-waste collection. Accepted items, business rules, appointments, and safety preparation differ, so confirm the exact item before moving it.
Key facts:
- Austin Resource Recovery: batteries do not belong in curbside trash, recycling, or compost carts.
- Austin and Travis County households can use battery drop-off sites or the appointment-only Recycle and Reuse Center.
- Never transport an actively hot, smoking, or burning item; move away and use emergency help instead.
Next steps:
1. Identify the item and keep batteries out of every curbside cart; do not combine unknown chemicals or move an actively hot, smoking, or burning item.
2. Check the current official page for a battery location, accepted hazardous-waste item, household or business restriction, and pickup or drop-off eligibility.
3. Schedule the collection or Center appointment when required and follow the official container, labeling, quantity, leak, and set-out instructions exactly.
4. For an active fire, dangerous heat, fumes, or exposure, move away and use emergency help instead of transporting the item to a drop-off site.
Official source: Austin battery and solar-panel recycling - https://www.austintexas.gov/resource-recovery/battery-and-solar-panel-recycling
Source review: August 10, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin ISD special-education evaluation timeline
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/aisd-special-education-evaluation-timeline
Summary: Track the written request, consent, evaluation, ARD decision, and special-transportation checkpoints without putting a child’s private record into the app.
Short answer: A written evaluation request, written parent consent, completed evaluation, and ARD meeting are separate milestones. Texas guidance generally sets 15 school days for a district response to a qualifying written request and 45 school days after consent for the initial evaluation report, with absence and school-year exceptions; the ARD eligibility decision follows on its own calendar. Austin ISD and the ARD committee determine which deadlines, eligibility, services, and transportation apply.
Key facts:
- Texas guidance: the district has 15 school days to respond to a qualifying written evaluation request.
- The initial evaluation report is generally due 45 school days after the district receives written parent consent, with absence and school-year exceptions.
- An evaluation does not by itself establish eligibility; the ARD committee makes the eligibility decision on its own calendar.
- The request date and the written-consent date are separate milestones, and the timelines count school days, not calendar days.
Next steps:
1. Send a dated written evaluation request to the campus principal or a district special-education administrator and keep proof it was received.
2. Record the written-consent date separately, then use the TEA timeline guidance with the actual school calendar, absences, and year-end exceptions.
3. Keep the prior-written notice, completed report, and ARD date together; an evaluation does not by itself establish eligibility, services, or placement.
4. Raise a disability-related transportation need with the ARD team, report address changes through the school or case manager, and keep a backup plan while any approved route change is processed.
Official source: Texas special-education evaluation timeline - https://spedsupport.tea.texas.gov/resource-library/evaluation
Source review: August 10, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Update records after a Texas court name-change order
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/texas-name-change-after-court-order
Summary: Turn a signed Texas name-change order into a certified-copy and agency-by-agency update plan for Social Security, DPS, voter, passport, and other records.
Short answer: A signed court order does not update other records automatically. Get certified copies from the court clerk, then follow each agency’s current rules separately. Social Security, Texas DPS, voter registration, and U.S. passports use different evidence and forms; DPS says an in-state license or ID name change requires an office visit within 30 days and original or certified proof.
Key facts:
- A signed court order does not update other records automatically; buy certified copies from the court clerk.
- DPS says an in-state license or ID name change requires an office visit within 30 days, with original or certified proof.
- Social Security, DPS, voter registration, and U.S. passports each use different evidence and forms.
Next steps:
1. Buy enough certified copies from the court clerk and confirm the new name is spelled and ordered exactly as the signed order states.
2. Use Social Security’s official name-change route and keep its confirmation; provide identity and name-change evidence only through the agency’s process.
3. Follow Texas DPS’s current office, timing, and original-or-certified-document rules, then update voter, vehicle, employer, tax, insurance, bank, utility, and benefit records that apply.
4. Use the current State Department passport route that matches the passport’s issue date, the legal-change date, and renewal eligibility before booking travel in the new name.
Official source: Travis County Law Library adult name change - https://lawlibrary.traviscountytx.gov/forms/adult-name-change
Source review: August 10, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Plan for Travis County jury duty
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/travis-county-jury-duty-plan
Summary: Respond to a Travis County jury summons, track conflicts and accommodations, prepare the trip, and recognize payment-demand scams.
Short answer: Use the official Travis County jury system or Jury Management Office to verify and respond to the summons, then keep the assignment status and reporting instructions current. Travis County reviews postponement, accommodation, and exemption requests and determines assignments. The County says it will never ask for money, wire transfers, or gift cards over the phone for jury service, and warns that scammers may demand cash-app payments.
Key facts:
- Travis County says it will never ask for money, wire transfers, or gift cards over the phone for jury service.
- Verify a suspicious summons or call through the official County jury page or Jury Management Office before sharing information.
- Postponement, exemption, disqualification, and accommodation requests go through the official process; wait for the written decision.
Next steps:
1. If the summons or a call seems suspicious, verify it through the official County jury page or Jury Management Office before sharing information or acting.
2. Complete the official jury response with the summons details, questionnaire, and conflict dates, then save the confirmation.
3. Request any postponement, exemption, disqualification, or disability accommodation through the official process and wait for its decision; prepare work, childcare, transport, and courthouse logistics.
4. Check the official assignment status and reporting instructions again before service, and never pay a caller claiming a missed summons or arrest threat.
Official source: Travis County jury-duty FAQ - https://www.traviscountytx.gov/district-clerk/jury-duty/faq
Source review: August 10, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## How do you fight a parking ticket in Austin?
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-parking-ticket-contest
Summary: Look up the citation, compare paying with requesting a hearing, and act before the date printed on the ticket.
Short answer: An Austin civil parking citation can be looked up, paid, or contested through Austin Municipal Court, including an online video hearing. You must contact the court by the date on the citation or you are found liable and the fine increases; disabled-parking charges are criminal offenses that follow a different court process.
Key facts:
- Austin civil parking citations are handled through Austin Municipal Court: look up, pay, or contest online.
- Contact the court by the date on the citation; ignoring it adds fees and can block registration renewal.
- Austin offers online video hearings for parking contests, so you do not have to appear in person.
Next steps:
1. Look up the case on the City of Austin citation page with the citation, plate, VIN, or case number.
2. Decide between paying, submitting paid-parking proof, or requesting a hearing, and note the exact date on the citation.
3. For a contest, request the court hearing (online video is an option) and gather the photos, receipts, or written facts you want considered.
4. Contact Municipal Court before the citation date; unresolved citations grow and three or more can lead to a boot or tow.
Official source: City of Austin civil parking citation - https://www.austintexas.gov/services/handle-civil-parking-citation
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Missed trash, recycling, or compost pickup in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-missed-trash-pickup
Summary: Confirm the collection day, then file the missed-pickup request with Austin 311 and keep the service request number.
Short answer: Report a missed City of Austin trash, recycling, or compost pickup to Austin 311 online or by phone. Confirm the cart was out on time and the schedule did not shift for a holiday first, then keep the 311 service request number so you can track the response.
Key facts:
- Report a missed City of Austin trash, recycling, or compost pickup to Austin 311 online, in the app, or at 3-1-1.
- Holiday weeks shift the collection schedule; check the Austin Recycles schedule before reporting.
- Keep the cart out until the crew comes or 311 tells you the make-up day.
Next steps:
1. Check the official collection schedule for your address and rule out a holiday slide.
2. Confirm the cart was set out on time, in the right spot, and not blocked or tagged for a rule issue.
3. File the missed-pickup request with Austin 311 and save the service request number.
4. Check status with the request number and follow up with the same number instead of filing duplicates.
Official source: Austin Resource Recovery residential collection - https://www.austintexas.gov/resource-recovery/residential-trash-collection
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Find my towed car in Austin: official lookup, lot, and fees
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-towed-car
Summary: Use APD's official tow lookup to confirm where your car is, what the lot charges today, and your dispute deadlines - before fees grow another day.
Short answer: If your car disappeared in Austin, start with the Austin Police Department wrecker enforcement resources to find out whether it was towed and where it is being held. Towing and storage fees grow daily, so confirm the location, the required documents, and the dispute rights quickly; never pay a cash-only demand without paperwork.
Key facts:
- Start with Austin Police Department wrecker enforcement or AutoReturn to learn if the car was towed and which storage lot holds it.
- Tow and storage fees grow daily, so same-day pickup is the cheapest path.
- TDLR licenses Texas tow operators and storage facilities and takes complaints about overcharges.
Next steps:
1. Rule out theft or repossession, then use the official APD wrecker resources to confirm a tow and locate the vehicle.
2. Call the storage lot for hours, current charges, and the documents needed for release.
3. Bring photo ID, proof of ownership or authorization, and a payment method the lot accepts; get an itemized receipt.
4. If the tow or the fees look wrong, use the TDLR consumer guidance and the justice-court tow hearing right within the deadline.
Official source: Austin Police Department wrecker enforcement - https://www.austintexas.gov/police/divisions/wrecker-enforcement
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## How do you report a noise problem in Austin?
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-noise-complaint
Summary: Document the pattern first, then use the right official channel: 911 only for emergencies, 311 or Austin Code for ongoing noise.
Short answer: Ongoing noise problems in Austin are reported through Austin 311, and repeated or unresolved issues can go to Austin Code with a documented history. Use 911 only when there is an immediate emergency; a dated log of times, sources, and effects is what turns one complaint into an actionable case.
Key facts:
- Ongoing noise problems go through Austin 311; 911 is only for an immediate disturbance or danger.
- Austin's noise rules set decibel limits and quiet hours; a documented log of dates and times is what escalates a repeat problem.
- Unresolved repeat noise can move to Austin Code with the 311 history attached.
Next steps:
1. Log dates, times, duration, source, and how the noise affects sleep, work, or safety.
2. Use 911 only for an immediate emergency; otherwise file with Austin 311 and keep the service request number.
3. For repeat problems, escalate with the full history instead of filing isolated complaints.
4. Save every response and closure reason so the next step builds on the record.
Official source: Austin 311 service request - https://www.austintexas.gov/services/submit-3-1-1-request
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## How do you get a birth certificate in Austin?
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-birth-certificate
Summary: Order through Austin Public Health’s Office of Vital Records or the state, with the right ID and eligibility.
Short answer: Austin birth certificates are issued through the Austin Public Health Office of Vital Records for local births, or through Texas Vital Statistics for any Texas birth. Eligibility, acceptable ID, fees, and ordering methods are set by the official offices, so confirm the current requirements before you go or mail anything.
Key facts:
- Austin Public Health's Office of Vital Records issues certified copies for births inside Austin; Texas DSHS Vital Statistics covers any Texas birth.
- Only eligible family relationships can order a certified copy; bring ID or order through the official channel.
- County and state copies are both valid for passports, schools, and benefits.
Next steps:
1. Confirm the birth was registered in Austin or elsewhere in Texas to pick the right office.
2. Check the official page for who may request the record and which IDs are accepted.
3. Choose the current ordering method (in person, mail, or the official online route) and the fee.
4. Keep the receipt or tracking information and verify the certificate details when it arrives.
Official source: City of Austin birth or death certificates - https://www.austintexas.gov/services/get-birth-or-death-certificate
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## How do you register to vote in Austin, Texas?
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/texas-register-to-vote
Summary: Texas registration means a signed paper form to your county voter registrar, at least 30 days before the election.
Short answer: Texas does not offer fully online voter registration: you complete the official application, print and sign it, and mail or deliver it to your county voter registrar, and it must arrive at least 30 days before the election you want to vote in. Travis County registrations go through the Travis County Tax Office voter registration division.
Key facts:
- Texas law requires registration by the 30th day before Election Day (VoteTexas).
- Texas has no fully online voter registration: print, sign, and mail or deliver the application to your county voter registrar.
- Travis County registrations go to the Travis County Tax Assessor-Collector's voter registrar office.
Next steps:
1. Confirm eligibility and whether you need a new registration or an update to an existing record.
2. Complete the official application, print it, and sign it by hand.
3. Mail or deliver the signed form to the county voter registrar before the 30-day deadline.
4. Check the registration status online after processing and keep the voter certificate when it arrives.
Official source: VoteTexas voter registration - https://www.votetexas.gov/register-to-vote/
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## How do you dispute a high Austin Energy bill?
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-electric-bill-dispute
Summary: Check the meter read, usage, and rate details first, then use the City of Austin Utilities dispute path.
Short answer: A high Austin Energy bill starts with checking whether the jump comes from usage, an estimated read, a rate or fee change, or a meter problem. City of Austin Utilities has an official bill-dispute path through Customer Care; document the readings and bills before you call so the dispute is about facts.
Key facts:
- Austin Energy bills jump for four main reasons: usage, an estimated read, a rate or fee change, or a meter problem.
- An estimated read gets corrected by an actual read; ask City of Austin Utilities customer care for the re-read.
- Payment extensions and discount programs exist, but you have to ask before the due date.
Next steps:
1. Compare the current bill’s usage, meter read type, and rate against previous bills.
2. Rule out seasonal usage, an estimated read, or a rate or fee change before calling.
3. Contact City of Austin Utilities Customer Care with the account, the bills, and your own meter photos if safe to take.
4. Ask for the dispute or review in writing and save the case number and the response.
Official source: City of Austin Utilities bill disputes - https://coautilities.com/wps/wcm/connect/occ/coa/util/support/billing/bill-disputes
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin Energy rebates and efficiency help
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-energy-rebates
Summary: Which Austin Energy rebates apply to thermostats, weatherization, and home efficiency work, and how to apply through the official program pages.
Short answer: Austin Energy pays residents back for specific efficiency work. The standing offers are the Power Partner smart thermostat program (a purchase rebate on approved models plus enrollment and yearly bill credits) and weatherization help for income-qualifying households, with other residential rebates rotating by budget year. The rules that matter most: check the current approved list before buying anything, and apply within the stated window with receipts saved.
Key facts:
- Austin Energy's Power Partner thermostat program pays a purchase rebate on approved models plus an enrollment incentive.
- Rebates cover specific efficiency work only; the approved-equipment and contractor rules decide eligibility.
- Apply before or right after the work per the program rules; retroactive claims are the ones that fail.
Next steps:
1. Read the current residential rebates list before buying, since approved models and funding change by budget year.
2. For a smart thermostat, confirm the model on the Power Partner page, then apply for the purchase rebate within 90 days.
3. If the household income-qualifies, start with Weatherization Assistance, which covers bigger upgrades at no cost.
4. Keep every receipt and confirmation, and watch the next one or two bills for the credit to appear.
Official source: Austin Energy residential rebates - https://austinenergy.com/energy-efficiency/rebates-incentives/residential
Source review: August 29, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin Water rebates and free conservation tools
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-water-rebates
Summary: Austin Water pays for approved conservation projects like landscape conversion, rainwater systems, and irrigation upgrades, and gives away free tools.
Short answer: Austin Water runs conservation rebates for approved projects, including turf conversion, rainwater harvesting, irrigation upgrades, and pool equipment, plus free water-saving tools. The order matters: most rebates require approval before you buy materials or start work, and the official program page lists which projects are currently funded and the exact rules for each.
Key facts:
- Austin Water conservation rebates cover turf conversion, rainwater harvesting, irrigation upgrades, and pool equipment.
- Free water-saving tools ship to Austin Water customers on request.
- Most rebates require pre-approval or specific equipment; read the program page before buying anything.
Next steps:
1. Confirm Austin Water serves the address, since some parts of the metroplex have different providers.
2. Pick the project on the official rebates page and read its rules before buying anything.
3. Get the required pre-approval, then do the work and keep every receipt.
4. Submit the application with documentation by the stated deadline and save the confirmation.
Official source: Austin Water rebates, tools, and programs - https://www.austintexas.gov/water/programs/rebates-tools-programs
Source review: August 29, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## How to apply for an Austin building permit
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-building-permit-application
Summary: The official path for a residential building permit in Austin: check the property record, prepare plans, apply through Austin Build + Connect, and track review.
Short answer: Most residential building, remodel, and trade work in Austin needs a permit from Development Services, and applications run through the city’s Austin Build + Connect portal. Start with the property profile to see the zoning, overlays, and any open or expired permits on the address, since those decide what is allowed before plans are drawn. Review happens in cycles with written comments, and work started before the permit is issued can be stopped and red-tagged.
Key facts:
- Most residential building, remodel, and trade work in Austin needs a permit from Development Services.
- Applications run through the city's Austin Build + Connect portal (AB+C).
- The portal shows live review status and examiner comments, so you can answer corrections without calling.
Next steps:
1. Open the property profile for the address to check zoning, overlays, and permit history before planning.
2. Prepare plans and documents against the residential plan review checklist so the first review cycle counts.
3. Apply and pay through Austin Build + Connect, then answer review comments in the same portal.
4. Wait for the issued permit before any work starts, and schedule inspections through the portal as stages finish.
Official source: Austin Development Services - https://www.austintexas.gov/development-services
Source review: August 29, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## How do you file a police report in Austin?
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-police-report
Summary: File most non-emergency Austin police reports online. Phone: 3-1-1 or 512-974-2000. 911 only for crimes in progress.
Short answer: Austin takes most non-emergency police reports online through the city's official filing page: minor assault, burglary without arson, theft, lost property, graffiti or property damage, fraud, identity theft, harassment, hit and run, and similar offenses where the suspect is gone and nobody is in danger. Vehicle theft, firearms, prescription drugs, and license plates are excluded from online filing. File by phone at 3-1-1 or 512-974-2000 if you are under 17, have no email address, or the offense is not on the online list. Call 911 only when a crime is happening now or someone is in immediate danger.
Key facts:
- Online filing is the city's preferred channel for most non-emergency crimes.
- File by phone at 3-1-1 or 512-974-2000 if you are under 17, have no email, or the offense is not on the online list.
- Anonymous tips go to Austin Crime Stoppers at 512-472-8477, but a tip is not a police report.
Next steps:
1. Rule out an emergency first: if a crime is in progress, the suspect is still there, or anyone is in danger, call 911 instead of filing anything online.
2. Check that the offense is on the city's online filing list; vehicle theft, firearms, prescription medication, and license plates cannot be filed online.
3. File through the city's official police report page with your email and the incident details, then save the report number it gives you.
4. If you are under 17, have no email address, or the offense is not eligible online, file by phone with Austin 311 or 512-974-2000.
Official source: City of Austin: file a police report - https://www.austintexas.gov/services/file-police-report
Source review: September 8, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## How do you find a lost pet in Austin?
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-lost-pet
Summary: Report it on Petco Love Lost, check Austin Animal Services daily, and move fast: stray holds last 72 hours.
Short answer: Start close to home, since most lost pets are found within a few houses, then put the report where the matches happen: Petco Love Lost, the city's free official tool, uses photo matching and scans public posts for found pets. Check Austin Animal Services' found pets list and visit the shelter daily, because strays are held only 72 hours before they can be released for adoption or transfer. The shelter at 7201 Levander Loop, Building A is open every day from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. If your pet is there, reclaim quickly with proof of ownership and a photo ID; the reclaim desk is open daily 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and answers at 512-978-0556.
Key facts:
- Petco Love Lost is the city's official lost and found reporting tool and it is free.
- Austin Animal Services holds strays for 72 hours before adoption or transfer, at 7201 Levander Loop, Building A, open daily 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Any shelter, vet office, Austin or Travis County fire station, or Tomlinson's Feed Store can scan a found pet's microchip for free.
- A sick or injured found pet goes to 3-1-1 or 512-974-2000, not the regular lost and found tools.
Next steps:
1. Search your home and immediate neighborhood first; most lost pets are found within a few houses.
2. Create a lost report on Petco Love Lost with clear photos; it photo-matches found pets, scans public Nextdoor posts, and makes flyers.
3. Check Austin Animal Services' found pets list and visit the shelter daily, because stray holds last only 72 hours.
4. Update your microchip contact info, text 'lostatx' to 844-764-2125 for step-by-step tips, and post in Austin's lost-and-found pet groups.
5. If your pet turns up at the shelter, reclaim fast: bring proof of ownership and a photo ID to the reclaim desk, open daily 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., or call 512-978-0556.
Official source: Austin Animal Services lost and found pets - https://www.austintexas.gov/animal-services/lost-and-found-pets
Source review: September 8, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Where do you apply for a passport in Austin?
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-passport-acceptance
Summary: Austin Public Library runs four appointment-only passport offices. An adult passport book costs $165 with the city fee.
Short answer: Austin Public Library runs passport acceptance offices at four branches: Central Library downtown (710 W. Cesar Chavez St, second floor, Room 207), Ruiz (1600 Grove Blvd), Spicewood Springs (8637 Spicewood Springs Rd), and Yarborough (2200 Hancock Dr). All four are appointment-only with no walk-ins: book online through the library's passport page, where slots open three days ahead and new times appear every 15 minutes. Bring an unsigned Form DS-11, original proof of U.S. citizenship, a valid photo ID, and a check or money order for the State Department fee. An adult passport book costs $130 plus the city's $35 acceptance fee, and $18 more if you need the photo taken there. Routine processing runs 4-6 weeks; expedited is 2-3 weeks for $60 extra.
Key facts:
- The four offices are Central Library, Ruiz, Spicewood Springs, and Yarborough; all take appointments only, no walk-ins.
- An adult passport book is $130 to the State Department plus a $35 city acceptance fee; the photo is $18 if taken there.
- Routine processing takes 4-6 weeks and expedited takes 2-3 weeks for $60 more, per the State Department.
- Children must come to the appointment with both parents.
Next steps:
1. Book an appointment online through the library's passport page. Slots open three days out with new times every 15 minutes, so a Saturday 2 p.m. slot appears the Wednesday before at 2 p.m.
2. Fill out Form DS-11 completely in black ink or typed and print it single-sided, but do not sign it; the acceptance agent watches you sign.
3. Gather your original or certified proof of citizenship, a valid photo ID, and a check or money order made out for the State Department fee.
4. Show up at your branch with everything; children must attend with both parents.
5. Pay the city fees separately by card, check, or money order, then track the application with the State Department.
Official source: Austin Public Library passport and notary services - https://library.austintexas.gov/passports
Source review: September 8, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## How do you find something lost at the Austin airport?
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/aus-airport-lost-and-found
Summary: File the airport's lost item form or call 512-530-5678. Checkpoint items go to TSA; items on the plane go to your airline.
Short answer: Where you lost it decides who has it. Anything left in the Barbara Jordan terminal goes to the airport's own lost and found: file the online Lost Item Report Form, then call 512-530-LOST (5678) or visit the office behind Carousel 1 in baggage claim, open every day from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Items left at the security checkpoint belong to TSA's lost and found at 512-386-2015, staffed Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closed weekends. Anything left on the airplane itself stays with your airline, so contact the carrier directly. South Terminal departures use a separate lost and found process linked from the airport's page.
Key facts:
- Terminal lost and found: 512-530-LOST (5678) or 512-530-2242, open 7 days a week 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., behind Carousel 1 in baggage claim.
- TSA checkpoint lost and found: 512-386-2015, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed weekends.
- Items left on the airplane belong to the airline, not the airport.
- The airport's Lost Item Report Form is the official first step for anything left in the Barbara Jordan terminal.
Next steps:
1. Figure out where the item was last seen, because the terminal, the checkpoint, and the airplane each have a different lost and found.
2. Terminal items: file the airport's Lost Item Report Form online, then call 512-530-LOST (5678) with a description; the office sits behind Carousel 1 in baggage claim and is open daily 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
3. Checkpoint items: call TSA's lost and found at 512-386-2015, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
4. Airplane items: contact your airline's baggage or customer service office directly; the airport never sees those.
5. If you flew out of the South Terminal, use the separate South Terminal lost and found link on the airport's page.
Official source: Lost and Found at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport - https://www.flyaustin.com/lost-and-found-airport
Source review: September 8, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Where can you get a document notarized in Austin?
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-notary
Summary: Austin Public Library notarizes by appointment for the Texas max fee. Online notarization is legal statewide.
Short answer: Austin Public Library offers notary service by appointment at the same four branches that take passports, charging the Texas maximum of $10 for one or two signatures on a document up to 15 pages. The library cannot notarize wills, financial papers, real estate documents, passport forms, copies of IDs or certificates, or documents in other languages. Any commissioned Texas notary can notarize your document, and state law caps the fee at $10 for the first signature and $1 for each additional signature on an acknowledgment, or $10 for an oath. Texas also allows online notarization over live video, where the notary can add up to $25 on top of the standard fees.
Key facts:
- Austin Public Library notarizes by appointment for $10 covering one or two signatures, for documents up to 15 pages.
- Texas caps notary fees at $10 for the first signature and $1 per additional signature on an acknowledgment, and $10 for an oath.
- Online notarization over live video is legal in Texas, with up to $25 added on top of standard fees.
- Texas notaries cannot accept IDs issued by other countries.
Next steps:
1. Check that your document is one a notary can handle; wills, real estate papers, and financial documents are excluded at the library and often need an attorney instead.
2. Book a notary appointment through the Austin Public Library page; service is by appointment only.
3. Bring the unsigned document and a valid U.S. photo ID; Texas notaries cannot accept IDs from other countries.
4. Sign in front of the notary and pay the fee, which is $10 for one or two signatures at the library.
5. If the document needs witnesses or cannot be notarized at the library, use any commissioned Texas notary or an online notarization service over live video.
Official source: Austin Public Library passport and notary services - https://library.austintexas.gov/passports
Source review: September 8, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## How do you look up an Austin traffic ticket?
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-traffic-ticket-lookup
Summary: Search the Austin Municipal Court portal by name and birth date or license number. Parking tickets search by plate or VIN.
Short answer: Austin Municipal Court's public portal is the official lookup for tickets filed with the city: search traffic and other Class C misdemeanor citations with your last name and date of birth or your driver license number, and search parking citations by license plate or VIN. The portal shows the case details and lets you pay, request a deferral, request a hearing, or submit compliance documents. A fresh ticket may not appear for a while; if yours is missing, check back weekly or call the court. The portal covers Austin Municipal Court cases only, which are typically fine-only Class C misdemeanors inside the city; tickets from the Travis County Justices of the Peace or county courts live in those courts' own systems.
Key facts:
- The official lookup is the Austin Municipal Court public portal: name and birth date or license number for traffic, plate or VIN for parking.
- Paying a citation means first pleading guilty or no contest.
- Deferrals postpone judgment and end in dismissal if you meet the terms; compliance dismissals for fixed issues can cost up to $20.
- The portal covers Austin Municipal Court only; other tickets belong to the Travis County Justices of the Peace or county courts.
Next steps:
1. Open the Austin Municipal Court public portal and search by last name and date of birth, driver license number, or for parking, by plate or VIN.
2. If the ticket does not appear, it may not be filed with the court yet; check back weekly or call the court.
3. Read the case details, then pick a resolution: pay, request a deferral, request a compliance dismissal, or ask for a hearing.
4. To pay, you first enter a guilty or no contest plea, then pay online, by phone at 512-974-4800 on weekdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., by mail to Austin Municipal Court, P.O. Box 2135, Austin, TX 78768-2135, or in person at the main courthouse at 6800 Burleson Road, Building 310, Suite 175 or the North Customer Service Center at 2121 West Parmer Lane, Suite 116.
5. If you fixed the underlying issue, such as expired registration or missing insurance, request a compliance dismissal online; some dismissals carry a fee of up to $20.
Official source: Austin Municipal Court: search for my case - https://www.austintexas.gov/municipal-court/search-my-case
Source review: September 8, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin curbside composting: green cart rules and schedule
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-compost-rules-schedule
Summary: What goes in the green cart, set-out rules, extra-item limits, and how to find your Austin compost collection day or report a miss.
Short answer: Austin Resource Recovery collects composting weekly from single-family homes up to four-plexes. Set the green cart at the curb by 5:30 a.m. on your collection day, five feet from other carts, lid closed. Food scraps (including meat, dairy, and bones), food-soiled paper, yard trimmings, and natural fibers all go in, because the city processes them at a commercial composting facility. Keep out liquids, fats, oils, grease, plastic, glass, metal, and Styrofoam. Extra material goes in paper lawn-and-leaf bags or a reusable container (up to 34 gallons and 50 pounds) beside the cart, up to 15 items; anything in plastic bags is collected as trash and can add extra trash fees. Look up your day on the city's official schedule tool, and report a missed cart to Austin 311 within two days.
Key facts:
- Weekly green-cart composting comes with city curbside service for single-family homes up to four-plexes; cart out by 5:30 a.m., lid closed, five feet apart.
- Meat, dairy, bones, and food-soiled paper are accepted because processing happens at a commercial composting facility.
- Extras go in paper bags or a reusable container, up to 15 items; plastic-bagged material is treated as trash with extra fees.
Next steps:
1. Find your collection day with the city's official schedule tool and sign up for reminders.
2. Fill the green cart with food scraps, food-soiled paper, yard trimmings, and natural fibers; keep the lid closed.
3. Set the cart out by 5:30 a.m., five feet from other carts, clear of bike lanes and sidewalks.
4. Put extras in paper lawn-and-leaf bags or a reusable container (max 34 gallons and 50 pounds) beside the cart, up to 15 items.
5. If the cart is missed, report to Austin 311 within two days and keep the service request number.
Official source: Austin curbside composting collection - https://www.austintexas.gov/resource-recovery/programs/curbside-composting-collection
Source review: September 9, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Report illegal parking in Austin: 311 and enforcement
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-report-illegal-parking
Summary: A car blocking your driveway, the sidewalk, or a bike lane goes to Austin 311, which dispatches city parking enforcement.
Short answer: Illegal parking on Austin public streets is handled by Transportation and Public Works parking enforcement, dispatched through 311. Report the exact location, the violation, and how long the vehicle has been there. A blocked driveway or a safety hazard like a hydrant, crosswalk, or bike lane gets priority, so say it explicitly when you report. The city code update approved February 13, 2025 added violations for blocking bike lanes, misusing EV charging stations, and parking in special-event right-of-way closures. The department does not tow vehicles; keep the 311 case number for follow-up if the vehicle stays.
Key facts:
- Illegal parking on public streets goes to Austin 311 and is handled by Transportation and Public Works parking enforcement.
- A blocked driveway or safety hazard gets priority; say it explicitly when you report.
- The February 2025 code update added violations for blocking bike lanes, misusing EV charging stations, and parking in event right-of-way closures.
Next steps:
1. Pin the exact location: the address or the block and the nearest cross street.
2. Name the violation: blocked driveway, sidewalk, hydrant, crosswalk, bike lane, or no-parking zone.
3. Take a dated photo from public space showing the vehicle and the violation, with the plate if visible.
4. Report through Austin 311 online, in the app, or by phone; if your driveway is blocked, say so explicitly because it changes the response priority.
5. Save the 311 case number for follow-up if the vehicle stays.
Official source: Austin parking regulations and tickets - https://www.austintexas.gov/transportation-public-works/parking-regulations-and-tickets
Source review: September 9, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin recycling rules and pickup schedule
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-recycling-rules-schedule
Summary: Austin recycling is biweekly and single-stream. What goes in the blue cart, what stays out, set-out time, holiday slides, and missed pickups.
Short answer: Austin Resource Recovery picks up residential recycling every other week for single-family homes through four-plexes. Paper, food and beverage cartons and coated paper cups, hard plastics, metal cans, glass bottles and jars, and cardboard broken down to about 2 by 2 feet all go loose in the blue cart, with no sorting and no bags. Set the cart out by 5:30 a.m. on your collection day, five feet from other carts and clear of bike lanes and sidewalks. Your exact day is in the city's My Schedule tool, and only Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day slide the schedule by a day.
Key facts:
- Recycling is collected every other week; mixed paper, hard plastics (no bags), metal, and glass go in one cart with no sorting.
- Carts go out by 5:30 a.m. on collection day, five feet apart and clear of bike lanes and sidewalks.
- Food and beverage cartons and coated paper products, including coffee cups, are now accepted in the blue cart.
- Extra recycling that does not fit with the lid closed goes in a cardboard box or reusable container next to the cart at no charge, and an extra blue cart is free by calling 512-494-9400.
Next steps:
1. Find your collection day in the city's My Schedule tool or the Austin Recycles app; if you live in a condo or townhome, search the street address without the unit number or letter.
2. Set the blue cart out by 5:30 a.m. on collection day, five feet from other carts and clear of bike lanes and sidewalks.
3. Put recyclables in loose: paper, cartons and coated paper cups, hard plastics, metal cans, glass, and cardboard broken down to about 2 by 2 feet. Never bag recycling.
4. Keep out plastic bags, film, styrofoam, batteries, electronics, and clothing; batteries and electronics go to a scheduled on-demand collection or the Recycle and Reuse Drop-off Center.
5. If your cart is missed, report it to Austin 311 within two days; extra recycling in a cardboard box next to the cart is collected at no charge.
Official source: Residential curbside recycling collection - https://www.austintexas.gov/resource-recovery/programs/residential-recycling-collection
Source review: September 10, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Report an abandoned vehicle in Austin: 311 and abatement
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/guides/austin-report-abandoned-vehicle
Summary: Report an abandoned or junk vehicle on an Austin street or private property to 311 or APD Vehicle Abatement. What qualifies and what happens next.
Short answer: The Austin Police Department's Vehicle Abatement Unit handles abandoned vehicles: report by calling 311, submitting a 311 request online, or calling (512) 974-8119. On a public street, a vehicle qualifies when it is visibly inoperable (flat tires, severely wrecked, dismantled) or illegally parked, such as left wheel to curb, too close to an intersection, or too far from the curb. The city does not tag vehicles on public streets for expired or missing registration or inspection stickers alone. A street vehicle gets an orange sticker with 48 hours to fix the problem or move before recheck and impound, and the owner has 20 days to redeem an impounded vehicle before it is sold at public auction. Junked vehicles on private property get a green sticker with 10 days, and a vehicle impounded as junked cannot be redeemed.
Key facts:
- APD's Vehicle Abatement Unit handles abandoned vehicles: report through 311 or call (512) 974-8119.
- Street vehicles qualify when visibly inoperable or illegally parked; the orange sticker gives 48 hours before impound.
- Once impounded, the owner has 20 days to redeem the vehicle before it is sold at public auction.
- Private-property junk vehicles get a green sticker and 10 days; a vehicle impounded as junked cannot be redeemed.
Next steps:
1. Pin the exact location: the address or the block and nearest cross street, plus how long the vehicle has been there.
2. Photograph the vehicle from public space without touching or entering it.
3. Report to Austin 311 online, in the app, or by phone, or call Vehicle Abatement at (512) 974-8119.
4. Say whether it is on a public street or private property; the private-property route requires a visibly inoperable vehicle with expired registration or inspection.
5. Save the 311 case number to track the tag, the recheck, and the impound status.
Official source: APD Vehicle Abatement - https://www.austintexas.gov/police/divisions/vehicle-abatement
Source review: September 11, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Request pages in full (the do-it-for-you layer)

## Austin water leak adjustment: lower a high water bill
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-high-water-bill-adjustment
Summary: A City of Austin water bill that jumped can qualify for an adjustment. Leak and non-leak paths need different proof. Tell us which and we file the request.
Short answer: Austin Water offers a leak adjustment when a repaired leak caused the spike and a high-use adjustment in narrower cases. You apply through the official customer-care route with the repair proof and the bill period in hand.
Steps:
1. Compare the spike against your last 12 months of usage, not just last month.
2. Check for a leak: read the meter before and after two hours with all water off.
3. If a leak is confirmed, get it repaired and keep the invoice or a dated photo record.
4. Request the adjustment through Austin Water customer care with the repair proof and the affected bill period.
5. Watch the next two bills. If the adjustment does not post, follow up with the request number.
Time: About 10 minutes to prepare; fee: Free to request
Common questions:
- How much can an Austin water bill adjustment take off? It depends on the leak or usage details and current Austin Water policy. There is no flat percentage; the official review decides the credit.
- Can I get an adjustment without a repaired leak? Sometimes. Austin Water has a narrower high-use path, but the leak path with repair proof is the stronger claim.
Official source: Austin Water customer care - https://www.austintexas.gov/water/divisions/customer-service
More official sources: City of Austin utility billing - https://www.austintexas.gov/services/pay-utility-bill
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Protest your Austin property tax appraisal
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-property-tax-protest
Summary: Austin homeowners can protest a Travis County appraisal that looks too high. The deadline and the evidence decide it.
Short answer: You protest through the Travis Central Appraisal District, online or by mail, by the deadline on your notice (usually May 15 or 30 days after the notice date). Comparable sales and condition photos carry the case.
Steps:
1. Read the notice date and find your protest deadline.
2. Pull the appraisal record and check it for wrong square footage, beds, or condition.
3. Gather three to five comparable sales near you and dated photos of any damage or wear.
4. File the protest with TCAD before the deadline and keep the confirmation.
5. Review the informal offer; accept it or continue to the formal hearing.
Time: About 20 minutes to prepare; fee: Free to file
Common questions:
- What is the Travis County protest deadline? Usually May 15 or 30 days after the appraisal notice date, whichever is later. The notice itself lists the exact date.
- Does protesting cost money? No. Filing a protest with the appraisal district is free.
Official source: Travis Central Appraisal District protests - https://traviscad.org/protests/
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Missed trash pickup in Austin? We file your 311 report
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-missed-trash-pickup
Summary: Tell us what got skipped and we file the official 311 report, free. You approve it, the city's receipt proves it was filed, and the return trip gets scheduled.
Short answer: Austin Resource Recovery takes missed-pickup reports through 311. Report within the window after your collection day, keep the cart out, and note anything that blocked the truck.
Steps:
1. Confirm today was your collection day and the cart was out on time.
2. Check the cart for a tag or blocker: overfilled lid, blocked access, or wrong items.
3. Report the miss to Austin 311 with your address and the collection type.
4. Keep the cart at the curb until the return trip happens.
5. If the request closes but the cart is still full, reopen it with the request number.
Time: About 5 minutes; fee: Free
Common questions:
- How long does Austin take to return for a missed pickup? Timing varies by route load. Track the 311 request number; if it closes without a pickup, reopen it.
- Is there a fee for a missed-pickup return trip? A normal missed pickup reported through 311 does not carry a fee. Special or extra collections are different.
Official source: Austin 311 - https://311.austintexas.gov/
More official sources: Austin Resource Recovery - https://www.austintexas.gov/department/austin-resource-recovery
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Report a pothole or street problem in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-pothole-report
Summary: Potholes, broken pavement, and street hazards in Austin go to 311. A precise location and a photo get the fastest fix.
Short answer: Street defects are handled by the City through Austin 311. Give the exact address or nearest intersection, the lane it affects, and a photo if it is safe to take one.
Steps:
1. Pin the exact spot: address, nearest intersection, and which lane or direction.
2. Take a photo if you can do it safely; include a landmark for scale.
3. Report it to Austin 311 as a street repair or pothole.
4. Save the request number and check status before reporting again.
5. If it damaged your car, the claim path is separate from the repair request.
Time: About 5 minutes; fee: Free
Common questions:
- How fast does Austin fix a reported pothole? Priority depends on severity and location. Track the 311 request; hazards in travel lanes move faster than cosmetic wear.
- Can I claim car damage from a pothole? A damage claim is a separate process from the repair report. Keep photos, the location, and the request number if you plan to file one.
Official source: Austin 311 - https://311.austintexas.gov/
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Get your security deposit back in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-security-deposit-return
Summary: Texas law gives landlords a deadline to return your deposit or explain deductions in writing. A clean paper trail wins these.
Short answer: Under Texas law the landlord has 30 days after you move out and leave a forwarding address to refund the deposit or send an itemized deduction list. A dated demand letter is the step that moves stalled deposits.
Steps:
1. Confirm you gave a written forwarding address; the 30-day clock starts there.
2. Gather the move-out photos, the lease, and any checkout paperwork.
3. Send a dated demand letter asking for the deposit or the itemized list.
4. If nothing arrives, the Justice of the Peace court is the usual next step.
5. Keep every receipt and message; the paper trail is the case.
Time: About 15 minutes to prepare; fee: Free to prepare the demand
Common questions:
- How long does a Texas landlord have to return a deposit? Thirty days after you move out and provide a forwarding address. After that they owe the refund or a written, itemized deduction list.
- What if the deductions look inflated? Normal wear and tear is not deductible in Texas. Dispute specific items in writing and keep the evidence for small-claims court if it goes there.
Official source: Texas Property Code security deposits - https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/PR/htm/PR.92.htm
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Rent assistance in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-rent-assistance
Summary: Behind on rent in Austin? Local assistance programs, a payment plan with the landlord, and your rights before an eviction filing.
Short answer: Austin and Travis County rent help runs through local programs that open and close as funding allows. Apply with income proof, your lease, and the amount owed. If an eviction is already filed, the timeline changes and legal aid becomes the urgent route.
Steps:
1. Get the exact numbers: months owed, fees, and any notice dates.
2. Gather income proof, the lease, and the notice if you have one.
3. Apply to the currently open city or county assistance programs first.
4. Ask the landlord for a written payment plan in parallel; programs can take weeks.
5. If an eviction is filed, contact legal aid immediately; deadlines are short.
Time: About 20 minutes to prepare; fee: Free to apply
Common questions:
- Is Austin rent assistance still available? Programs open and close with funding. The city and county housing pages list what is accepting applications right now; apply early and keep proof of submission.
- Can I be evicted while an assistance application is pending? A pending application does not by itself stop an eviction in Texas. Tell the court and legal aid about the application, and keep every confirmation number.
Official source: City of Austin housing assistance - https://www.austintexas.gov/department/housing
More official sources: Travis County Health and Human Services - https://www.traviscountytx.gov/health-human-services
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin Energy bill assistance
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-energy-bill-assistance
Summary: Austin Energy offers a discount program for qualifying households and help funds when a bill is past due. Both start with your account and income details.
Short answer: Austin Energy's Customer Assistance Program gives an ongoing bill discount to qualifying households, and help funds can cover a past-due balance. You apply with your account number and income documentation.
Steps:
1. Find your Austin Energy account number and the current balance.
2. Gather income documentation for everyone in the household.
3. Apply for the Customer Assistance Program if you qualify; it lowers every bill.
4. For a past-due balance, ask about help funds and a payment arrangement before the due date.
5. If a disconnection notice arrived, call first; the notice date is the real deadline.
Time: About 15 minutes to prepare; fee: Free to apply
Common questions:
- Who qualifies for the Austin Energy discount? The Customer Assistance Program uses household income and participation in certain benefit programs. The current thresholds are on Austin Energy's site and change, so check there.
- Can a payment plan stop a disconnection? An arrangement made before the notice deadline usually holds the disconnection. Miss the arrangement and the process restarts, so pick a plan you can keep.
Official source: Austin Energy customer assistance - https://coautilities.com/wps/wcm/connect/occ/coa/util/support/customer-assistance/cap-overview
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Toll bill in Austin? Pay the right authority, fight bad fees
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-toll-bill-help
Summary: A Central Texas toll bill in collections grows fast. Find the real balance, pay the authority that owns the road, then fight the fees that are wrong.
Short answer: Austin-area tolls belong to TxTag or the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority depending on the road. A pay-by-mail bill left alone picks up fees and can end in collections or a registration block. Confirm which authority bills you, pay the tolls, and dispute fees through that authority's process.
Steps:
1. Identify the road: MoPac express, 183A, 290 Toll, 71 Toll, 45 Toll, and 183S are Mobility Authority; most state toll roads are TxTag.
2. Pull the balance from the right authority's pay-by-mail portal with your plate number.
3. Pay the base tolls first; fees are the part worth disputing.
4. Dispute wrong fees in writing and keep the confirmation.
5. If a registration hold is in place, ask for the release steps once the tolls are paid.
Time: About 15 minutes to prepare; fee: The tolls owed; fees vary
Common questions:
- Which authority bills for MoPac express lane? The MoPac express lanes and roads like 183A are billed by the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority. Most other Central Texas toll roads bill through TxTag.
- Can unpaid tolls block my registration? Yes. A habitual violator finding can put a hold on vehicle registration. Paying the tolls with the authority is what starts the release.
Official source: Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority pay a bill - https://www.paymobilitybill.com/
More official sources: TxTag - https://www.txtag.org/
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Transfer a vehicle title in Texas
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/texas-vehicle-title-transfer-austin
Summary: Bought or sold a car in Austin? Texas gives the buyer 30 days to transfer the title, and the paperwork has to be right the first time at the county tax office.
Short answer: In Texas the buyer files the title transfer with the county tax office within 30 days of sale, using the signed title and Form 130-U. The seller should file a vehicle transfer notification online so tickets and tolls stop following them.
Steps:
1. Check the title: seller's signature, buyer's name, date, and the odometer reading filled in correctly.
2. Complete Form 130-U with the sale price; the tax office calculates tax from it.
3. Bring proof of insurance and ID to the Travis County Tax Office within 30 days.
4. Seller: file the online vehicle transfer notification the same day.
5. Keep the receipt; the new title arrives by mail weeks later.
Time: About 20 minutes to prepare; fee: Tax and title fees at the counter
Common questions:
- How long do I have to transfer a title in Texas? Thirty days from the sale date. Late transfers add a penalty, and driving past that without transferring can bring a citation.
- What if the title has a mistake or is lost? Do not cross anything out. A lost or damaged title needs a certified copy application by the titled owner before the transfer can happen.
Official source: Texas DMV title transfers - https://www.txdmv.gov/motorists/buying-or-selling-a-vehicle
More official sources: Travis County Tax Office - https://www.traviscountytax.org/
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Get a Texas driver license appointment in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/texas-driver-license-appointment-austin
Summary: Austin-area DPS appointments book out fast. Renewal, replacement, and first-time licenses each have a different route; some renewals finish online in minutes.
Short answer: Many Texas renewals and replacements finish online without an appointment. In-person services go through DPS's appointment system; Austin-area offices release slots in waves, so checking at off hours and trying neighboring offices finds openings sooner.
Steps:
1. Check eligibility for online renewal or replacement first; it skips the office entirely.
2. If you must go in person, book through the DPS appointment system and take the confirmation.
3. Try offices outside central Austin; suburban offices often have sooner slots.
4. Gather documents before the visit: identity, residency, and Social Security proof.
5. New Texas residents have 90 days to transfer an out-of-state license.
Time: About 10 minutes to prepare; fee: State fee at booking or the counter
Common questions:
- Can I renew a Texas license online? Most standard renewals and replacements can, if your last renewal was in person and your information is unchanged. The DPS online portal checks eligibility first.
- How long does a new Texas resident have to switch licenses? Ninety days after moving. You need an in-person visit for the transfer, so book early.
Official source: Texas DPS driver license services - https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Check an Austin permit status
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-permit-status-lookup
Summary: Building, trade, and site permits in Austin are searchable online by address or permit number. Here is where to look and what the statuses mean.
Short answer: The City of Austin's public permit search shows status, reviews, and inspections by address or permit number. A permit stuck in review usually means a comment is waiting on the applicant, and the search shows which review discipline left it.
Steps:
1. Search by address or permit number in the City's public permit lookup.
2. Open the permit record and read the status plus each review discipline.
3. Check for review comments; most stalls are an unanswered comment.
4. For inspections, look at the inspection history tab for pass/fail and re-inspection notes.
5. If the record looks wrong or missing, the permit center is the escalation route.
Time: About 10 minutes; fee: Free to look up
Common questions:
- How do I find out if work on a house was permitted? Search the address in the City's permit lookup and check each permit's status. A finaled permit means the city closed it; expired or withdrawn permits are a red flag when buying.
- What does 'in review' mean on an Austin permit? One or more city review disciplines is still evaluating the plans. The record shows which discipline, and its comments say what is holding things up.
Official source: City of Austin permit search - https://abc.austintexas.gov/citizenportal/app/
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Request public records in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-public-records-request
Summary: City of Austin and Texas public records are yours to request. A narrow, well-worded request comes back faster and cheaper.
Short answer: Texas public information requests go to the government body that holds the records, in writing. The City of Austin takes them through its public records portal. Narrow the date range and name the record type to keep response time and cost down.
Steps:
1. Name the exact record: type, date range, and the department likely to hold it.
2. Submit through the holding body's portal or email; for the City of Austin, use the public records portal.
3. Keep the confirmation number; the 10-business-day clock runs from receipt.
4. If the agency asks to narrow or clarify, respond fast to keep the request moving.
5. If records are withheld, the ruling request goes to the Texas Attorney General.
Time: About 10 minutes to prepare; fee: Often free; large requests can carry copy costs
Common questions:
- How long does an Austin public records request take? The agency must respond promptly and usually within 10 business days to say it will release the records or ask the Attorney General about withholding. Large requests take longer.
- Do public records requests cost money? Inspection is often free. Copies and large compilations can carry charges set by state rules, and the agency must tell you the estimate before charging.
Official source: City of Austin public records - https://www.austintexas.gov/services/submit-public-information-request
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Register to vote in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-voter-registration
Summary: Texas voter registration is a paper form, not an online form. The deadline lands 30 days before election day, and Travis County's tax office processes it.
Short answer: Texas has no online voter registration. You fill the state form, sign it, and mail or drop it at the Travis County Voter Registrar (the tax office) at least 30 days before the election. Already registered? Check your status online before any deadline.
Steps:
1. Check your current registration status online first; a move within the county may only need an update.
2. Fill out the Texas voter registration application completely and sign it.
3. Mail or hand-deliver it to the Travis County Voter Registrar at least 30 days before election day.
4. Watch for your registration certificate in the mail and check that the details are right.
5. New to Texas? Registering here ends your old state's registration when you confirm the move.
Time: About 10 minutes; fee: Free
Common questions:
- Can I register to vote online in Texas? No. Texas requires a signed paper application. You can fill it on screen and print it, but it must be signed and mailed or delivered.
- How do I check if I am registered in Travis County? The Texas Secretary of State's voter portal and the Travis County Clerk's site both let you check by name and date of birth.
Official source: Travis County voter registration - https://tax-office.traviscountytx.gov/voters/registration
More official sources: Texas voter portal - https://www.votetexas.gov/
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Free tax preparation in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-free-tax-prep
Summary: Austin households under the income limit can get taxes prepared free by IRS-certified volunteers. What to bring decides whether one visit finishes it.
Short answer: IRS VITA sites across Austin prepare federal returns free for qualifying households, generally under an annual income cap. Bring photo ID, Social Security cards for everyone on the return, and every tax document. Sites run January through April, many by appointment.
Steps:
1. Check the current income cap on the IRS or local VITA page; it adjusts each year.
2. Book an appointment at a nearby VITA site; walk-in capacity is limited.
3. Bring ID, Social Security cards for everyone on the return, and all W-2s, 1099s, and deduction records.
4. Both spouses attend a joint return; both must sign.
5. E-file at the site and keep the acceptance confirmation.
Time: About 15 minutes to prepare; fee: Free
Common questions:
- Who qualifies for free tax prep in Austin? VITA serves households under an IRS income cap that adjusts yearly, plus seniors and people with disabilities. The current cap is on the IRS VITA locator.
- Can VITA handle self-employment income? Simple 1099 and gig work, usually yes. Complex business returns with employees or heavy expenses are outside volunteer scope.
Official source: IRS free tax preparation sites - https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-qualifying-taxpayers
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Find unclaimed money in Texas
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-unclaimed-property-search
Summary: Old paychecks, deposits, and refunds end up with the Texas Comptroller. Searching is free, and claiming your own money never needs a paid finder.
Short answer: The Texas Comptroller holds unclaimed property: forgotten paychecks, utility deposits, refunds, and account balances. Search the official database by name, and file the claim yourself for free. Paid finder services charge a cut for the same form.
Steps:
1. Search the official Texas unclaimed property site under every name you have used.
2. Check prior addresses; matches list the holder and the city.
3. File the claim online and answer the identity questions.
4. Send any requested proof, like an old bill or ID, promptly.
5. Watch for the check; larger amounts take longer and may need notarized proof.
Time: About 10 minutes; fee: Free
Common questions:
- Is there a deadline to claim unclaimed property in Texas? No. Texas holds unclaimed property until the rightful owner claims it, and the official search and claim are free.
- How long does a Texas unclaimed property claim take? Simple claims with matching information can pay in weeks. Estates and larger amounts take longer and need more documentation.
Official source: Texas unclaimed property search - https://claimittexas.gov/
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Get rid of large items in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-bulk-item-pickup
Summary: Furniture, mattresses, and appliances do not go in the Austin trash cart. Bulk pickup runs on a schedule, and some items need a special route.
Short answer: Austin Resource Recovery collects large items curbside on a set schedule for each address, and some items like tires, construction debris, and certain appliances follow different rules. Check your collection day, set items out on time, and keep restricted items out of the pile.
Steps:
1. Look up your bulk collection week by address on the City schedule.
2. Check the accepted-items list; appliances with refrigerant and construction debris have their own rules.
3. Set items at the curb by the deadline before your collection day.
4. Separate metal and appliances from brush and furniture as the city requires.
5. On a move-out deadline before your bulk week, the drop-off center or a donation pickup is the fallback.
Time: About 10 minutes; fee: Free within the set limits
Common questions:
- How often is bulk pickup in Austin? Bulk collection runs on a set cycle for each address, a few times a year. Your address lookup shows the exact week.
- Can I put out a refrigerator? Appliances with refrigerant need special handling and may require a separate arrangement. Check the accepted list before setting one out.
Official source: Austin bulk pickup - https://www.austintexas.gov/services/view-your-recycling-composting-and-trash-schedule
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Report a noise problem in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-noise-complaint
Summary: Ongoing noise in Austin goes to 311; noise happening right now can go to the non-emergency police line. The details you log decide whether anything sticks.
Short answer: Austin's noise rules set limits by time and decibel level. For noise happening now, call the non-emergency line. For a repeating problem, file 311 reports with dates, times, and the source so a pattern exists on record.
Steps:
1. Log the noise: date, start and end time, and the source address.
2. For noise happening right now, call the non-emergency police line while it continues.
3. For a repeating problem, file a 311 report each time so the pattern is documented.
4. Construction noise has allowed hours; outside them it is reportable.
5. Keep your log; escalation and any enforcement lean on the documented pattern.
Time: About 10 minutes; fee: Free
Common questions:
- What are Austin's quiet hours? Austin's noise ordinance sets decibel limits that tighten at night, and construction has allowed working hours. The current limits are on the City's noise page and can change.
- Can I report noise anonymously? 311 reports can be filed without attaching your name publicly, but the request record itself is a public record.
Official source: Austin 311 - https://311.austintexas.gov/
More official sources: City of Austin noise information - https://www.austintexas.gov/arts-culture/outdoor-amplified-sound
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Make your Austin landlord fix a repair
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-tenant-repair-notice
Summary: Texas tenants have a repair right, but it runs on written notice, not texts. A dated letter that names the problem starts the clock that protects you.
Short answer: In Texas, a landlord's duty to repair starts with written notice and a reasonable time to fix it. Send a dated notice that names the condition and its health or safety impact, keep proof of delivery, and follow the second-notice step before stronger remedies.
Steps:
1. Document the problem with dated photos and a short written log.
2. Send a written repair notice that names the condition and asks for repair; keep proof of delivery.
3. Give a reasonable time, then send the second notice the Texas statute allows.
4. For conditions that threaten health or safety, note that plainly in the notice.
5. If nothing moves, the remedies in the statute and code enforcement are the next routes.
Time: About 15 minutes to prepare; fee: Free to prepare the notice
Common questions:
- Can I withhold rent until repairs happen in Texas? Not safely on your own. Texas law has a specific repair remedy process, and skipping its steps can put you in violation of the lease.
- What if the problem is urgent, like no air conditioning in summer? Urgent conditions get faster remedies under the statute, but the written-notice steps still apply. Note the health impact in the notice and send it with delivery proof.
Official source: Texas Property Code repairs - https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/PR/htm/PR.92.htm
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Contest or pay an Austin parking ticket
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-parking-ticket-help
Summary: An Austin parking ticket has a short contest window. Decide fast: contest with evidence, or pay before late fees stack on.
Short answer: Austin parking citations can be paid or contested through the Municipal Court route printed on the ticket. A contest needs evidence like photos or receipts and has a deadline; past it, late fees apply and the ticket can grow.
Steps:
1. Read the ticket for the court, the deadline, and the amount; photograph it.
2. Decide contest or pay before the deadline, not after.
3. To contest, gather evidence: photos of the spot and signs, receipts, or a permit record.
4. File the contest through the Municipal Court's stated process and keep the confirmation.
5. If you pay, pay the exact citation through the official portal and save the receipt.
Time: About 10 minutes to prepare; fee: The citation amount if paying
Common questions:
- What happens if I ignore an Austin parking ticket? Late fees add up, and unpaid citations can lead to a collections process and problems at registration renewal. The cheap moment is before the deadline.
- Can I contest a parking ticket online? The Municipal Court's process and options are printed on the citation and listed on its site; check there for the current filing method.
Official source: Austin Municipal Court - https://www.austintexas.gov/department/municipal-court
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Childcare assistance in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-childcare-assistance
Summary: Austin childcare help runs on subsidy waitlists and provider searches that reward early paperwork. Here is where the real doors are.
Short answer: Texas childcare subsidies in the Austin area run through Workforce Solutions, and the waitlist moves on complete applications. Apply with income and work or school proof, and use the provider search in parallel so you are not waiting on both.
Steps:
1. Check subsidy eligibility: income, and work, school, or training hours.
2. Apply with Workforce Solutions for the childcare subsidy waitlist with full documentation.
3. Search licensed providers in parallel and join individual waitlists early.
4. Keep your contact information current; waitlist offers expire if they cannot reach you.
5. Ask providers about sliding-scale or sibling discounts while you wait.
Time: About 20 minutes to prepare; fee: Free to apply
Common questions:
- Who qualifies for childcare subsidies in Austin? Eligibility turns on household income and work, school, or training participation. Workforce Solutions applies the current state thresholds when you apply.
- How long is the childcare subsidy waitlist? It varies with funding. Complete applications with current contact info move through; incomplete ones stall at intake.
Official source: Workforce Solutions childcare services - https://wfscapitalarea.com/childcare/for-parents/
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Report a code violation in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-code-violation-report
Summary: Tall grass, junk piles, or an unsafe structure? Austin Code investigates reports filed through 311 and can require the owner to fix the problem.
Short answer: Austin Code handles property violations like overgrown lots, accumulated junk, unsafe buildings, and unpermitted use. You report through Austin 311 with the exact address and what you can see from public space. A code officer inspects, and if the violation is confirmed the owner gets a notice with a deadline to fix it.
Steps:
1. Pin the exact street address of the problem property. The officer cannot open a case on a vague description.
2. Take dated photos from the sidewalk or your own property. Never enter the lot or building.
3. Search the city code complaint lookup to see if a case is already open on the address.
4. Report it through Austin 311 online or by phone and describe what you see and how long it has been there.
5. Save the 311 case number. If nothing changes after the officer deadline, follow up with that number.
Time: About 10 minutes; fee: Free
Common questions:
- Can I report a code violation anonymously in Austin? Yes. Austin 311 accepts anonymous reports, though leaving contact information lets the officer follow up if they cannot verify the violation from the street.
- What happens after I file a code complaint? A code officer inspects the address. If they confirm a violation, the owner gets a written notice and a deadline. Owners who ignore it can face citations and court action.
- Which problems count as code violations? Common ones are grass or weeds over 12 inches, junk and debris in the yard, unsafe or dilapidated structures, and using a property in a way its zoning does not allow.
Official source: Austin 311 - https://311.austintexas.gov/
More official sources: Austin Code complaint search - https://www.austintexas.gov/services/search-code-complaints
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin Water rebates worth claiming
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-water-rebates
Summary: Austin Water pays rebates for rainwater harvesting, irrigation upgrades, and water-saving equipment. Most customers never claim what they qualify for.
Short answer: Austin Water runs standing rebate programs for things like rainwater harvesting systems, irrigation upgrades, and efficient fixtures. Each program has its own application and rules, and some require approval before you buy, so read the program page before spending anything.
Steps:
1. Open the Austin Water rebates page and list the programs that match what you plan to do.
2. Check whether the program needs pre-approval. Buying first can void the rebate on some programs.
3. Keep every receipt and take photos of the installed equipment.
4. Apply within the program deadline with your Austin Water account number.
5. Track the application and follow up if the rebate does not post in the stated window.
Time: About 15 minutes; fee: Free to apply
Common questions:
- How much are Austin Water rebates? It depends on the program. Small items can be worth tens of dollars while rainwater harvesting systems can reach into the thousands. The official rebates page lists current amounts.
- Can renters claim Austin Water rebates? Most programs are tied to the account holder or property owner. Renters usually need the landlord involved for anything that changes plumbing or irrigation.
- Do rebates expire? Programs change and funding can pause. Check the current program page before you buy and apply inside the posted deadline.
Official source: Austin Water rebates - https://www.austintexas.gov/water/programs/rebates-tools-programs
More official sources: Watershed Protection rebates and grants - https://www.austintexas.gov/watershed-protection/rebates-free-stuff-grants
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Report an abandoned vehicle in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-abandoned-vehicle-report
Summary: A car untouched for weeks, or a junk vehicle nearby? APD Vehicle Abatement handles public streets; Austin Code handles junk vehicles on private property.
Short answer: Where the vehicle sits decides who handles it. On a public street, Austin Police Vehicle Abatement investigates reports filed through 311, tags the vehicle, and tows it if the owner does not move it. On private property, a junk or inoperative vehicle is a code violation handled by Austin Code. Either route starts with the exact location and photos taken from public space.
Steps:
1. Pin the exact location: the street address or block where the vehicle sits.
2. Take dated photos from the sidewalk or street. Note the make, color, plate, and condition without touching the vehicle.
3. Decide the route: public street means APD Vehicle Abatement through 311; private property means a code complaint.
4. File the report through Austin 311 online or by phone and describe how long the vehicle has not moved.
5. Save the 311 case number. If the vehicle is still there after the tag window, follow up with that number.
Time: About 10 minutes; fee: Free
Common questions:
- How long before Austin tows an abandoned vehicle? After a report, an officer inspects and tags the vehicle with a warning. If the owner does not move it inside the window on the tag, the city can tow it. Timelines vary by case load.
- Can I report an abandoned vehicle anonymously in Austin? Yes. Austin 311 accepts anonymous reports, though contact information helps if the officer cannot find the vehicle.
- What about a junk vehicle in a neighbor's yard? A vehicle that is inoperative or missing parts on private property is a code violation, not a police matter. Report it through the code violation route instead.
Official source: APD Vehicle Abatement - https://www.austintexas.gov/police/divisions/vehicle-abatement
More official sources: Austin 311 - https://311.austintexas.gov/
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Start, stop, or change Austin trash service
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-trash-service-setup
Summary: Moving or need a different cart? Austin Resource Recovery runs trash, recycling, and compost carts; most changes go through your utility account or 311.
Short answer: Austin Resource Recovery (ARR) runs curbside trash, recycling, and compost for Austin homes. Service is tied to the City of Austin utility account for the address: starting or stopping service happens with the account, and cart swaps, repairs, and extra trash stickers go through ARR by way of 311 or the ARR services pages. Cart repairs for normal damage are free, and extra bags beyond a closed lid need paid stickers.
Steps:
1. Confirm the address gets city collection. Most single-family homes in Austin do; many apartments and condos use private haulers.
2. For a move: start or stop service with the City of Austin utility account, since trash is billed on the utility bill.
3. For a different cart size: pick the size that fits and request the swap through 311 or ARR. Monthly rates scale with cart size.
4. For a cracked or missing cart: report it through 311 for a repair or replacement delivery.
5. For extra bags beyond a closed lid: buy extra trash stickers before collection day instead of overfilling the cart.
Time: About 10 minutes; fee: Free for most cart services
Common questions:
- How do I start trash service when I move into an Austin house? Trash service rides on the City of Austin utility account for the address. Set up or transfer the utility account and the carts follow it.
- What cart sizes does Austin offer? ARR offers several trash cart sizes and the monthly rate scales with size. Recycling and compost carts come at set sizes. The residential services page lists the current options.
- Is there a fee to replace a damaged cart? Repairs for normal wear and damage are handled by ARR at no charge in most cases. Report the damage through 311.
Official source: Austin Resource Recovery residential services - https://www.austintexas.gov/resource-recovery/residential-services
More official sources: Austin Resource Recovery - https://www.austintexas.gov/department/austin-resource-recovery
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Report illegal parking in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-parking-violation-report
Summary: A car blocking your driveway, on the sidewalk, or at a hydrant? Austin takes parking violation reports through 311 and sends parking enforcement.
Short answer: Parking violations on public streets in Austin are handled by Transportation and Public Works parking enforcement, dispatched through 311. Report the exact location, what the violation is, and how long the vehicle has been there. A blocked driveway or a safety hazard like a hydrant or crosswalk gets priority; a vehicle that simply overstays a time limit follows the normal enforcement route.
Steps:
1. Pin the exact location: the address or the block and the nearest cross street.
2. Name the violation: blocked driveway, sidewalk, hydrant, crosswalk, no-parking zone, or an overstayed time limit.
3. Take a dated photo from public space showing the vehicle and the violation, with the plate if visible.
4. Report it through Austin 311 online or by phone. For a blocked driveway, say so explicitly; it changes the response.
5. Save the 311 case number in case the vehicle stays and you need a follow-up or a tow request.
Time: About 5 minutes; fee: Free
Common questions:
- Can I get a car towed for blocking my driveway in Austin? Report the blocked driveway through 311 and say the driveway is blocked. Enforcement can cite the vehicle and arrange a tow when the violation blocks your access.
- Is a car parked on the sidewalk illegal in Austin? Yes. Sidewalk parking is a citable violation and an accessibility problem. Report it through 311 with the exact location.
- What if the same car keeps coming back? Keep the case numbers. A pattern of reports on the same spot gives enforcement a history to work from.
Official source: Austin parking regulations and enforcement - https://www.austintexas.gov/transportation-public-works/parking-regulations-and-tickets
More official sources: Austin 311 - https://311.austintexas.gov/
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Report a streetlight outage in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-streetlight-outage-report
Summary: A streetlight dark, flickering, or on all day? Austin Energy maintains most city streetlights; report repairs through 311 with the pole location.
Short answer: Austin Energy owns and maintains most streetlights in Austin, and repair reports go through 311 as an AE Street Light Issue. The fastest reports include the pole number (a tag on the pole) or the nearest street address. A light that cycles, flickers, or stays dark for nights is a repair report; a whole block dark at once can be an outage worth reporting the same way.
Steps:
1. Find the pole number on the metal tag at eye level, or pin the nearest street address and cross street.
2. Note what the light does: fully dark, flickering, cycling on and off, or on during the day.
3. Report it through Austin 311 online or by phone as a street light issue with the pole number or address.
4. Save the 311 case number. Streetlight repairs run on a crew schedule, so follow up with the number if it stays dark.
Time: About 5 minutes; fee: Free
Common questions:
- Who fixes streetlights in Austin? Austin Energy maintains most city streetlights. Reports filed through 311 route to AE crews as an AE Street Light Issue.
- How long does a streetlight repair take in Austin? It varies by crew load and the repair type. Track the 311 case number and follow up if the light stays dark past a couple of weeks.
- What about a light on a highway or in a park? Highway lighting can be TxDOT and park lighting can be Parks and Recreation. The 311 report will get routed, so file it with the best location you have.
Official source: Austin Energy report a problem - https://austinenergy.com/residential/report-a-problem
More official sources: Austin 311 - https://311.austintexas.gov/
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Get a block party permit in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-block-party-permit
Summary: Closing your street for a neighborhood gathering takes a city permit. Austin's Neighborhood Block Party program keeps it simple: one block, up to 24 hours, $52.
Short answer: Austin's Living Streets program runs Neighborhood Block Parties: a one-time closure of a single residential block for up to 24 hours. The application costs $52 total and is due at least 15 calendar days before the event. The street must be a local road at least 15 feet wide, at least 60% of households on the block must support it, every household must be notified, and an adult monitor stays at each end of the closure the whole time.
Steps:
1. Check that your street qualifies: a local residential road, at least 15 feet wide, a full single block with no intersections, no traffic signal, no transit route, and no paid parking.
2. Talk to the block. You need support from at least 60% of households, and 100% of the block must be notified.
3. Apply through the Living Streets page at least 15 calendar days before the party and pay the $52 application fee.
4. Plan for an adult monitor at each end of the closure for the full event.
5. Keep the party open to all residents, skip vendors and alcohol sales, and keep food trucks on private property.
Time: About 20 minutes to apply; fee: $52 total
Common questions:
- How much does an Austin block party permit cost? $52 total: a $50 application fee plus a 4% processing surcharge.
- How long can we close the street? Up to 24 hours for a one-time event under the Neighborhood Block Party program. Recurring closures fall under the separate Play Streets program.
- What if my street does not qualify? Streets with multifamily buildings, schools, or businesses are reviewed case by case. You can also hold the gathering in yards or driveways without a permit as long as the street stays open.
Official source: Living Streets Neighborhood Block Parties - https://www.austintexas.gov/transportation-public-works/living-streets
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin garage sale rules
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-garage-sale-rules
Summary: No permit needed for an Austin garage sale. The rules: four sale days a year per property, signs only on your own property, and the home-based business line.
Short answer: Austin does not require or issue permits for a residential garage or yard sale. City code limits sales to four days per calendar year at the same property; more than that is treated as a home-based business. Signs may advertise the sale only on the property where it happens, for no more than three consecutive days. Signs on utility poles, medians, or any public right-of-way are prohibited bandit signs, with minimum fines of $50 for a first offense and city removal without notice.
Steps:
1. Skip the permit hunt: Austin does not require or issue garage sale permits.
2. Pick your days: up to four garage sale days per calendar year at the same property.
3. Put signs only on the property where the sale happens, and keep them up no more than three consecutive days.
4. Keep signs off utility poles, medians, and street corners: those are illegal bandit signs with fines starting at $50.
5. Selling more often? Past four sale days a year the city treats it as a home-based business, which follows different rules.
Time: 2 minutes to learn the rules; fee: Free; no permit required
Common questions:
- Do I need a permit for a garage sale in Austin? No. Austin does not require or issue permits for residential garage, yard, or estate sales.
- How many garage sales can I hold each year? Up to four sale days per calendar year at the same property. Beyond that the city code treats the activity as a home-based business.
- Where can I put garage sale signs? Only on the property where the sale is happening, for no more than three consecutive days. Signs in the public right-of-way are bandit signs: fines start at $50 and rise to $400 for repeat offenses, plus $200 per day if you ignore a written removal notice.
Official source: Common Austin Code violations - https://www.austintexas.gov/development-services/common-austin-code-violations
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Reserve a park pavilion in Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-park-pavilion-reservation
Summary: Austin pavilions and park buildings book through the city reservation system. Small gatherings need no permit; sound, alcohol, or sales change that.
Short answer: Reservable pavilions, picnic areas, and park buildings are booked through Austin Parks and Recreation's online facility search or the Office of Special Events at 512-974-6797 (weekdays 9 am to 3 pm) or reservations@austintexas.gov. A casual friends-and-family gathering with no amplified sound, no alcohol, no sales, and no public advertising needs no permit at all. Amplified sound (even a small speaker), alcohol, bounce houses, food sales, or charging fees each require a permit with the reservation.
Steps:
1. Decide if you even need a reservation: an informal gathering with no amplified sound, alcohol, sales, or advertising can use general park areas without a permit, with up to two 10x10 shade canopies.
2. Search reservable sites and availability in the city's online facility search, or email reservations@austintexas.gov.
3. Plan extras early: any amplified sound needs a sound permit, alcohol needs an approved site rental, and bounce houses or water slides need permission.
4. Cookouts and crawfish boils belong at designated rental sites and can add a $100 damage deposit, plus health permits and insurance for public events.
5. For questions or special requests: Office of Special Events, 200 S. Lamar Blvd, weekdays 9 am to 3 pm, 512-974-6797.
Time: About 10 minutes to search and start a reservation; fee: Varies by site; permits and deposits extra
Common questions:
- Do I need a permit for a birthday party at an Austin park? Not for an informal friends-and-family gathering with no amplified sound, alcohol, sales, or advertising. Add any of those and you need a permit with the reservation.
- How do I report something broken or dangerous at a park? Report park maintenance problems like broken playscapes, damaged fences, or irrigation leaks to Austin 3-1-1: online at 311.austintexas.gov, in the Austin 311 app, or by calling 3-1-1.
- Can I bring a bounce house or a petting zoo? Bounce houses and water slides only with a permit as part of an approved site rental. Petting zoos are prohibited in all Austin parks.
Official source: Reserve a City of Austin park space - https://www.austintexas.gov/services/reserve-park-space
More official sources: Austin 3-1-1 service requests - https://311.austintexas.gov/
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin towing rights and tow hearings
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-towed-car-rights
Summary: Texas caps what tow companies can charge and gives you a fast court route: the drop-fee rule, the fee caps, and the 14-day tow hearing deadline.
Short answer: If a tow truck has your car but it is not fully hooked up, you can ask for it back free, with no proof of ownership required. If it is fully hooked up but has not left the lot, you keep the car by paying a drop fee capped at $135 for vehicles up to 10,000 pounds, and the driver must accept cash, credit, or debit. Once the car reaches a storage facility, statewide caps apply: $272 maximum for the tow, $22.85 per day of storage for vehicles 25 feet or shorter, up to $50 for notification, and $20 maximum for impoundment. If the tow or boot was wrongful or the fees were over the cap, you can request a tow hearing at any Travis County Justice of the Peace court within 14 days; the filing fee is $20 and the hearing must happen within 21 days.
Steps:
1. Catch it early: a car not fully hooked up comes back free, no ownership proof needed.
2. Fully hooked but still in the lot: pay the drop fee, capped at $135 for most cars; the driver must take cash or card.
3. Towed away: call the number on the tow-away sign, then recover the car from the storage facility with proof of ownership and the allowed fees.
4. Check every line against the caps: $272 tow, $22.85 a day storage, $50 notification, $20 impoundment.
5. Think it was wrong? Ask any Travis County Justice of the Peace court for a tow hearing within 14 days. Filing costs $20 and the hearing comes within 21 days.
6. Report the company to TDLR, which licenses tow operators and storage facilities.
Time: 10 minutes to learn your rights; fee: $20 court filing fee if you request a hearing
Common questions:
- How much can a tow company charge in Austin? Statewide caps apply: $272 maximum for a nonconsent tow of a vehicle up to 10,000 pounds, $22.85 per day of storage for vehicles 25 feet or shorter, up to $50 for notification, and at most $20 for impoundment. Drop fees top out at $135 for most cars.
- How long do I have to fight a tow? You must request a tow hearing from a Justice of the Peace court within 14 days of the tow or boot. The filing fee is $20 and the hearing must be held within 21 days of the request.
- What if my car was booted instead of towed? Call the number on the warning sticker and do not try to remove the boot. The same 14-day tow hearing right applies to booting.
Official source: Texas TDLR towing consumer information - https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/towing/consumerinfo.htm
More official sources: TDLR towing complaints - https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/complaints/?strRadiobutton=Vehicle+Towing
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin watering days and restrictions
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-watering-day-rules
Summary: Austin is under Conservation Stage water rules: hose-end watering two days a week by address, sprinklers one day. Your days, the exceptions, and the fines.
Short answer: Austin is in Conservation Stage water use restrictions. Even addresses may use hose-end sprinklers Thursday and Sunday; odd addresses Wednesday and Saturday, only midnight to 10 a.m. or 7 p.m. to midnight. Automatic irrigation systems get one day a week: Thursday for even addresses, Wednesday for odd. A hand-held hose, a refillable container, or a soaker hose on trees and vegetable gardens is allowed any day at any time. Violations can bring penalties up to $1,000 per violation, and variances (new xeriscape, large properties, medical hardship, and a few others) are requested through the Austin Water Customer Portal.
Steps:
1. Find your days: even addresses water Thursday and Sunday, odd addresses Wednesday and Saturday, with hose-end sprinklers only midnight to 10 a.m. or 7 p.m. to midnight.
2. Automatic sprinkler systems get one day only: Thursday for even addresses, Wednesday for odd. Reset the controller.
3. Skip the schedule with a hand-held hose or refillable container: allowed any day, any time. Soaker hoses and drip work for trees and vegetable gardens any day.
4. Need an exception? New xeriscape, large properties, medical hardship, and a few other cases can get a variance through the Austin Water Customer Portal.
5. See water waste? Report it to Austin 3-1-1 with the address, day, and time.
Time: 5 minutes to learn your days; fee: Free
Common questions:
- What are the current watering days in Austin? Under Conservation Stage rules: even addresses use hose-end sprinklers Thursday and Sunday, odd addresses Wednesday and Saturday. Automatic irrigation systems get one day a week: Thursday for even addresses, Wednesday for odd.
- Can I hand-water whenever I want? Yes. A hand-held hose or refillable container is allowed any day at any time, and soaker hoses or drip irrigation for trees and vegetable gardens are allowed any day.
- What happens if I water on the wrong day? Water restriction violations can bring penalties up to $1,000 per violation, enforced through Austin 3-1-1 reports and city patrols.
Official source: Austin Water find your watering day - https://www.austintexas.gov/water/find-your-watering-day
More official sources: Austin Water drought response - https://www.austintexas.gov/water/austin-water-drought-response
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin small claims court
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-small-claims-court
Summary: Travis County Justice of the Peace courts handle money disputes up to $20,000. Pick the right precinct, e-file with Guide and File, and bring winning evidence.
Short answer: In Travis County, money disputes up to $20,000 (not counting statutory interest and court costs) go to a Justice of the Peace court: unpaid deposits, bad repairs, unreturned property, unpaid wages under the cap. You file in the JP precinct where the defendant lives or where the property or events are, and every Travis County JP office accepts electronic filing. The county's Guide and File interviews walk you through the petition step by step, and you do not need a lawyer. Court clerks can explain procedure but cannot give legal advice.
Steps:
1. Confirm the cap: $20,000 or less, excluding statutory interest and court costs. Eviction and repair-and-remedy cases use the same cap.
2. Find the right precinct: file in the Travis County JP precinct where the defendant lives or where the property or events are. The county JP precinct map matches an address to a precinct.
3. Build the petition with the county's Guide and File interviews, or e-file directly: every JP office in Travis County accepts electronic filing.
4. Serve the defendant officially and keep the proof of service.
5. Bring organized evidence to the hearing: contracts, photos, receipts, texts, and a one-page timeline.
Time: About 30 minutes to prepare the filing; fee: Filing fee varies by precinct; waivers exist for low income
Common questions:
- How much can I sue for in Travis County small claims? Justice of the Peace courts hear claims up to $20,000, not counting statutory interest and court costs. Eviction and repair-and-remedy cases use the same $20,000 cap.
- Do I need a lawyer for JP court? No. Justice courts are built for people representing themselves, and the county's Guide and File system walks you through the petition step by step.
- Where do I file a small claims case in Austin? In the Travis County Justice of the Peace precinct where the defendant lives or where the property or events are. The county publishes a JP precinct map you can search by address, and all JP offices accept e-filing.
Official source: Travis County JP1 civil suits - https://www.traviscountytx.gov/justices-of-peace/jp1/civil-suits
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Texas wage claim and final paycheck rules
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/texas-wage-claim-final-paycheck
Summary: Fired or laid off in Texas? Final pay is due within 6 calendar days. Quit? Next regular payday. Unpaid wages go to a TWC wage claim, filed within 180 days.
Short answer: Texas Payday Law sets the final paycheck clock: if you were fired or laid off, full final pay is due within 6 calendar days of your last day; if you quit or retired, it is due on the next regularly scheduled payday. If wages go unpaid, file a wage claim with the Texas Workforce Commission within 180 days of the date the wages were originally due, and TWC counts the day it receives your claim. If only part of the unpaid wages fall inside 180 days, claim that part. Missed the window? A federal claim with the U.S. Department of Labor can reach back 2 years. An employer generally cannot hold your final check over unreturned company property without written authorization or a court order.
Steps:
1. Mark the deadline math: fired or laid off means final pay within 6 calendar days; quitting means the next regular payday.
2. Ask for the wages in writing first and keep a copy with the date.
3. File the TWC wage claim within 180 days of when the wages were due; TWC uses the date it receives the claim, so do not sit on it.
4. Only part inside the window? File for that part anyway.
5. Past 180 days? The U.S. Department of Labor can take claims within 2 years of when wages were owed.
6. If the employer is holding your check over company property, that is only allowed with your written authorization or a court order.
Time: 20 minutes to prepare the claim; fee: Free to file with TWC
Common questions:
- When is my final paycheck due in Texas? If you were fired or laid off, within 6 calendar days of your last day. If you quit, on the next regularly scheduled payday.
- How long do I have to file a wage claim? 180 days from the date the wages were originally due, and TWC counts the date it receives your claim. After that window, the U.S. Department of Labor can take claims within 2 years.
- Can my employer hold my last check until I return company property? Not without your written authorization or a court order. The employer's remedy is a separate civil claim, not a wage deduction.
Official source: Texas Workforce Commission: Texas Payday Law - https://www.twc.texas.gov/programs/wage-and-hour/texas-payday-law
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## File a Travis County homestead exemption
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-homestead-exemption
Summary: The homestead exemption cuts Travis County property taxes and filing is free. April 30 deadline, 2-year late window, bigger breaks at 65 or disability.
Short answer: If you own and live in your Travis County home, the residence homestead exemption lowers your taxable value every year, and filing with the Travis Central Appraisal District is free. The deadline is April 30 of the tax year, but late applications are accepted for up to two years with proration. Turning 65 or qualifying for disability adds a school tax ceiling that freezes what the school district can collect; disabled veterans get $5,000 to $12,000 off assessed value depending on VA rating, and a surviving spouse 55 or older can keep the exemptions. The over-65 ceiling can transfer when you move within Texas. Never pay a third party to file: TCAD takes the application free.
Steps:
1. Confirm you own and live in the home as your principal residence.
2. File the residence homestead application with TCAD for free, online or by mail. Ignore paid-filer pitches.
3. Watch the calendar: April 30 is the deadline, but late applications work for up to two years with proration.
4. 65 or older, or disabled? File the over-65 or disability exemption too: it adds a school tax ceiling that freezes school taxes at that level.
5. Disabled veterans: the exemption runs $5,000 to $12,000 off assessed value by VA rating.
6. Moving within Texas? The over-65 or disability ceiling can transfer to the new home.
Time: About 15 minutes to file; fee: Free through TCAD
Common questions:
- What does the homestead exemption save in Travis County? It lowers your taxable value with every taxing unit that offers it, every year you qualify. Over-65 and disability exemptions add a school tax ceiling, and disabled veterans get $5,000 to $12,000 off assessed value depending on VA rating.
- What is the homestead exemption deadline? April 30 of the tax year. Missed it? Late applications are accepted for up to two years, with the savings prorated.
- Does it cost anything to file? No. Filing with the Travis Central Appraisal District is free. Anyone charging to file a homestead exemption is selling something you can do yourself.
Official source: Travis Central Appraisal District homestead exemptions - https://traviscad.org/homesteadexemptions
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin Energy rebates: EV chargers, solar, thermostats
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-energy-rebates
Summary: Austin Energy pays money back: up to $1,200 for a home EV charger, $4,000 for solar, $50 plus credits for a smart thermostat. Most customers never claim them.
Short answer: Austin Energy's biggest residential rebates right now: a home Level 2 EV charger gets 50% of purchase and installation back, up to $1,200 for a Power Partner-compatible setup or $900 otherwise. Rooftop solar through a participating contractor carries a $4,000 rebate plus a 9.91 cent per kWh Value of Solar credit on every bill. A new smart thermostat earns a $50 rebate, plus $75 for enrolling in Power Partner and $30 a year for staying enrolled. Every one of these is applied for online after installation or purchase, and the online applications must be finished in one session, so gather documents first.
Steps:
1. EV charger: use a licensed electrician and a permitted install; apply online after installation for 50% back, up to $1,200.
2. Have the application packet ready before you start: utility account number, electrician license number, charger model, VIN, purchase proof, and paid invoices. The form times out and cannot be saved mid-way.
3. Solar: get quotes from Austin Energy participating contractors only; they are the ones who can offer the $4,000 rebate.
4. Thermostat: buy an eligible model, apply for the $50 rebate within 90 days, then enroll in Power Partner for $75 plus $30 a year.
5. Check rebate status online with the confirmation number and your utility account number.
Time: 15 minutes once documents are gathered; fee: Free to apply
Common questions:
- How much is the Austin Energy EV charger rebate? 50% of the cost to buy and install a qualified Level 2 home charging station, up to $1,200 for a Power Partner-compatible station or vehicle, or $900 otherwise. One rebate per vehicle purchase or lease.
- What does Austin Energy pay for solar? A $4,000 rebate for eligible home solar through a participating contractor, plus a 9.91 cent per kWh Value of Solar bill credit for the power your system produces.
- Is the smart thermostat rebate still active? Yes. $50 back on an eligible new thermostat (raised from $30 in November 2025), $75 for enrolling it in Power Partner, and $30 per year for each thermostat kept enrolled.
Official source: Austin Energy home EV charger rebate - https://austinenergy.com/green-power/plug-in-austin/home-charging
More official sources: Austin Energy home solar - https://austinenergy.com/green-power/solar-solutions/for-your-home
More official sources: Austin Energy Power Partner thermostats - https://austinenergy.com/energy-efficiency/rebates-incentives/residential/cooling-heating/pp-thermostat
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin alarm permits and false alarm appeals
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-alarm-permit
Summary: Austin requires a permit for every monitored or audible alarm, renewed each year. False-alarm appeals exist, but only for permitted systems.
Short answer: If your Austin home or business has a monitored or audible alarm system, you need an alarm permit for each alarmed location, and it must be renewed every year. Apply through the city's Alarm Administration Portal, and the permit is not active until the fee is paid and any unpaid response fees are cleared. Apartment tenants with their own unit alarm need a residential permit. False alarms carry response fees, and an appeal is only possible if the alarm was permitted when it went off: gather proof of the active permit and your evidence, then send the Appeal Request Form to DSD Alarm Administration by mail or email. Moving? Permits do not transfer: cancel in writing and apply fresh at the new address.
Steps:
1. Check whether your system needs a permit: any monitored or audible alarm at an Austin address needs one, including a tenant's unit alarm in an apartment.
2. Apply through the Alarm Administration Portal (or the web form) and pick the right type: residential, commercial, or principal for apartment common areas.
3. Pay the invoice in the portal; the permit is not active until the fee and any outstanding response fees are paid.
4. Renew every year. The city emails a renewal notice about 30 days ahead, but the renewal is your responsibility even without it.
5. Fighting a false-alarm fee? Appeals are only for permitted alarms: send the Appeal Request Form with your permit proof and evidence to DSD Alarm Administration.
6. Moving or cancelling service? Cancel the permit in writing on the cancellation web form; it cannot be canceled by phone.
Time: 10 minutes to apply or appeal; fee: Permit fee varies by type; appeal form is free
Common questions:
- Do I need an alarm permit in Austin? Yes, for any monitored or local audible alarm at a home or business in Austin's full-purpose jurisdiction. One permit per alarmed location, renewed annually.
- Can I appeal a false alarm fee? Only if the alarm had an active permit when it went off. Send the Appeal Request Form with proof of the permit and your evidence to DSD Alarm Administration by mail or email.
- I am moving. Does my alarm permit move with me? No. Cancel the old permit in writing using the cancellation web form, then apply for a new permit at the new address.
Official source: Austin Alarm Administration - https://www.austintexas.gov/police/programs/alarm-administration
More official sources: Apply for an alarm permit - https://www.austintexas.gov/services/apply-alarm-permit
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin freeze prep: pipes, water, power, alerts
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-freeze-prep
Summary: A hard freeze can burst pipes and knock out power in Austin. The city's playbook: find your shutoff valve, wrap pipes, drip one faucet, and sign up for alerts.
Short answer: Austin's winter playbook starts before the freeze. Follow the 4 P's: protect People (never heat your home with a generator, grill, or camp stove - carbon monoxide kills), bring Pets inside, insulate Pipes, and cover Plants. Find your main water shutoff valve now: for most homes it is on your side of the water meter at the meter box, and a water meter key from a hardware store opens the box. Insulate exposed pipes in attics and garages, wrap outside faucets with towels or foam insulators, and turn off irrigation for the winter. If pipes might still freeze, drip one cold water faucet slowly - the one farthest from your shutoff valve - and capture the water. Store one gallon of water per person and pet per day for seven days. Sign up for Warn Central Texas alerts, and if the power goes out report it by texting OUT to 287846. Austin Water's 24-hour emergency line is 512-972-1000, option 1.
Steps:
1. Locate your main water shutoff valve at the meter box and keep it clear; buy a water meter key at any hardware store.
2. Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas (attic, garage, crawl space) and wrap outside faucets with towels or a foam insulator.
3. Seal drafty windows, doors, and walls; plan to keep garage doors closed during the freeze.
4. If a hard freeze is coming, drip one cold faucet slowly - the one farthest from your shutoff valve - and capture the water for later use.
5. Store one gallon of water per person and pet per day for seven days before the storm rush.
6. Sign up for Warn Central Texas alerts and download the Ready Central Texas app.
7. Power out? Text OUT to 287846 or check outagemap.austinenergy.com. See a downed line: call 311; if it is sparking, call 911.
Time: About 30 minutes before the freeze; fee: Free; supplies are hardware-store cheap
Common questions:
- Which faucet should I drip during an Austin freeze? One cold-water faucet only, the one farthest from your main shutoff valve, at a slow drip - not a running trickle. Capture the water so it is not wasted.
- Where is my water shutoff valve? For most Austin homes, the property owner's shutoff is on your side of the water meter at the meter box. A water meter key (sold at hardware stores) opens the box. Renters should ask their property manager.
- How much water should I store before a winter storm? One gallon per person and per pet per day for seven days, stored before the first storm of the season hits stores.
- How do I report a power outage to Austin Energy? Text OUT to 287846 (text REG first to register for outage alerts), visit outagemap.austinenergy.com, or call 512-322-9100.
- A pipe burst in my rental and the landlord is not fixing it. What now? No hot water, burst pipes, and ceiling or wall cracks are code issues. Request a Code Inspector by calling Austin 311 or 512-974-2000.
Official source: Ready Central Texas: Winter Weather - https://www.austintexas.gov/ready-central-texas/winter-weather
More official sources: Warn Central Texas alerts - https://warncentraltexas.org
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin residential parking permits (RPP)
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-residential-parking-permit
Summary: Commuters flooding your block? Residents can create a permit-only zone with a $350 application and a 66% neighbor petition. Permits run $60 to $90 a year.
Short answer: Austin's Residential Permit Parking program works two ways. If your street has no zone yet, residents can create one: email Austin Transportation and Public Works at MobilityServices@AustinTexas.gov, submit the online application with a $350 fee, then collect resident signatures on the city-issued digital petition within 90 days - 66% support is required. The city then runs a two-week parking study that must show at least 75% occupancy with no less than 50% non-resident traffic, the Area Traffic Engineer reviews it, signs go up, and enforcement typically starts two weeks later. If your street already has a zone, yearly permits are digital and tied to your license plate: $60 for the first vehicle, then $70, $80, and $90, up to four per residence, plus up to two $90 visitor hangtags, all plus 8.25% sales tax. Austin Energy CAP participants pay $20 per resident permit or $30 per hangtag on up to two permits. Renew before the deadline - July 31 for the UT-area orange zone, December 31 for every other zone - because there is no grace period.
Steps:
1. Check the city's Permit Eligibility Listing map to see if your block already has a zone and what it allows.
2. No zone yet? Email MobilityServices@AustinTexas.gov to discuss eligibility, then submit the online zone application with the $350 fee.
3. Collect signatures on the city-issued digital petition within 90 days; 66% support moves it to the parking study phase.
4. The city runs a two-week parking study (needs 75% occupancy, at least 50% non-resident vehicles), then the Area Traffic Engineer approves and signs are installed.
5. In a zone already? Gather proof of residency: a driver license, property tax statement, utility bill dated within 30 days, voter registration card, or an executed lease.
6. Buy permits through TPW: resident permits are digital and plate-linked; clear any unpaid parking citations first, because they block the purchase.
Time: 15 minutes to apply; a new zone takes months; fee: $60-$90 yearly permits; $350 to create a zone
Common questions:
- How much do Austin RPP permits cost? Resident vehicle permits are tiered: $60 for the first, $70 second, $80 third, $90 fourth. Visitor hangtags are $90 each, day passes $5. All plus 8.25% sales tax. CAP discount: $20 resident, $30 visitor, up to two permits.
- How do I get a permit-only zone on my street? Email MobilityServices@AustinTexas.gov, file the $350 online application, then collect 66% resident support on the city's digital petition within 90 days. A two-week parking study (75% occupancy, 50% non-resident) and the Area Traffic Engineer's approval follow.
- When do RPP permits expire? July 31 each year for the UT-area orange zone; December 31 for all other color zones. There is no grace period.
- Can I get day passes for guests? Yes, $5 scratch-off day passes, but only if your residence already holds yearly permits. Limit: 20 passes per event, six events per year.
- What about construction workers' trucks? Residential construction passes cover workers' vehicles: up to three per address, each valid 45 consecutive days, extendable in 45-day increments via the RPP Construction Pass application.
Official source: Austin Residential Permit Parking program - https://www.austintexas.gov/transportation-public-works/programs/residential-permit-parking-program
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Building an ADU in Austin: zoning, permits, rental rules
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-adu-permit
Summary: A backyard cottage or garage apartment fits most SF-1, SF-2, and SF-3 lots of 5,750+ sqft. Permits run through the AB+C portal; the unit needs its own address.
Short answer: An Additional Dwelling Unit is a second home on the same lot as a single-family house: habitable space, a full bathroom, and a sink or dishwasher outside the bathroom. In Austin you can build one if the property is zoned SF-1, SF-2, or SF-3 (check Property Profile) and the lot is at least 5,750 square feet. Recent code changes removed the minimum distance between units, and the HOME amendments now allow multiple units on certain lots. Every new unit needs its own address from Address Management before you apply. Permits go through the Austin Build + Connect (AB+C) portal, and the applicant named on the permit needs their own AB+C account to pay fees and manage the file. Planning to rent it short-term? A unit built after October 1, 2015 can be a short-term rental for no more than 30 days per calendar year, and you will need the Certificate of Occupancy and an STR license. Watch for deed restrictions: they can block an ADU even when zoning allows it, and checking them is on you.
Steps:
1. Confirm the zoning is SF-1, SF-2, or SF-3 on the city's Property Profile tool.
2. Measure the lot: 5,750 square feet minimum. Check deed restrictions and restrictive covenants on the property before spending on plans.
3. Under the HOME amendments, look at whether the lot qualifies for two or three units instead of one.
4. Get a unique address or building number for the unit from Address Management Services before submitting the permit.
5. Create an AB+C portal account in the applicant's name; that account pays fees and manages the application.
6. Submit the residential building permit application in AB+C, then pass final inspections to get the Certificate of Occupancy.
7. Want STR income? If the unit was built after October 1, 2015, short-term rental use is capped at 30 days per calendar year and needs a license.
Time: 20 minutes to scope a lot; permits take weeks to months; fee: Permit fees vary by project; zoning check is free
Common questions:
- What lots can have an ADU in Austin? Properties zoned SF-1, SF-2, or SF-3 with at least 5,750 square feet of lot area, subject to deed restrictions. The HOME amendments allow multiple units on certain zoned lots.
- Do the two units need to be a minimum distance apart? Zoning no longer sets a minimum distance between units, but technical codes still apply, including fire separation under IRC R302.1(1).
- Can I Airbnb an ADU? Only up to 30 days per calendar year if the unit was built after October 1, 2015, and only with a short-term rental license plus the Certificate of Occupancy.
- Where do I apply for the permit? In the Austin Build + Connect (AB+C) portal. The named applicant needs their own AB+C account to pay fees and manage the application.
Official source: Austin Development Services: Additional Dwelling Units - https://www.austintexas.gov/development-services/additional-dwelling-units
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Lake Austin drawdown 2026: dock and bulkhead repair permits
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/lake-austin-drawdown-dock-repair
Summary: Lake Austin drops October 12 to November 30, 2026, opening the lakebed for dock and bulkhead work. Minor repairs use an exemption form due before December.
Short answer: During the Lake Austin drawdown (October 12 to November 30, 2026) the lakebed is exposed so owners can repair shoreline structures, clear sediment from boat slips, remove debris, and manage nuisance vegetation. For minor dock and bulkhead repairs, the city created an accelerated 2026 Lake Austin Drawdown Site Plan Exemption Request form, and it will not be accepted after November 2026 - submit early enough for review and for the work to finish. What you need depends on the work: painting, staining, furniture, and limited lighting need no permit; simple re-decking, repairs to an existing structure, and bulkhead repairs up to 25% (with no site-plan-free repair in the previous three years) need a site plan exemption plus a building permit; new construction, footprint expansions, load-bearing replacements, and demolition need a full site plan permit. Removing sediment for navigation is allowed under the exemption during the 2026 drawdown only. Nuisance vegetation removal needs a separate Texas Parks and Wildlife permit. Work can begin once the lakebed is exposed and your permit is approved. Questions go to siteplancommunications@austintexas.gov or 512-978-4691.
Steps:
1. Classify the work: no permit (paint, stain, furniture, limited lighting), site plan exemption (re-decking, like-for-like repairs, bulkhead repairs up to 25%), or full site plan permit (new construction, expansions, load-bearing replacements, demolition).
2. For minor dock and bulkhead repairs during the drawdown, use the special 2026 Lake Austin Drawdown Site Plan Exemption Request (PDF) for accelerated review.
3. Submit well before the end of November 2026 - the special form is not accepted after November, and review plus construction must fit the drawdown window.
4. Pull the building (or demolition) permit that pairs with the exemption or site plan before starting.
5. Removing nuisance vegetation? Get the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department permit first.
6. Start work only once the lakebed is exposed and permits are approved; the window closes November 30, 2026.
7. After building or rebuilding, register the dock with the city so public safety crews can see it.
Time: 20 minutes to classify the work and file the form; fee: Exemption and permit fees vary by scope
Common questions:
- When is the 2026 Lake Austin drawdown? October 12 through November 30, 2026. Work can begin once the lakebed is exposed and your permits are approved.
- What dock work needs no permit at all? Painting, staining, placing furniture, limited landscaping, and limited lighting.
- What qualifies for the accelerated exemption form? Simple re-decking, repairs and maintenance of an existing structure, bulkhead repairs up to 25% (with no unpermitted repair in the prior three years), and sediment removal for navigation during the 2026 drawdown.
- What is the deadline for the special drawdown exemption form? It is not accepted after November 2026. Submit with enough time for review, approval, and the work itself before the lake refills.
- Do I need a permit to remove nuisance vegetation? Yes, a separate permit from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
Official source: Austin Development Services: Boat Docks and the Lake Austin Drawdown - https://www.austintexas.gov/development-services/boat-docks
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Backyard chickens in Austin: coop rules, roosters, rebates
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-backyard-chickens
Summary: Up to 10 hens need no permit in Austin. Coops sit 50 feet from neighboring homes (20 if enclosed); roosters are legal. A city class earns a $75 rebate.
Short answer: Austin's animal code (Chapter 3-2) lets you keep up to 10 fowl on a residential lot with no permit. The one rule that matters most is placement: the coop or enclosure must sit at least 50 feet from any dwelling that is not yours, reduced to 20 feet if the enclosure meets the enclosed-coop requirements the city adopted in 2022. Roosters are legal, but crowing is enforced under the noise code (Chapter 9-2) and repeated complaints can force removal, so most keepers skip them. Hens lay without a rooster. Austin Resource Recovery has offered a $75 rebate to residents who complete a free chicken-keeping class; check ARR's current rebate offerings before counting on it. Bigger animals are a different game: goats and miniature livestock need at least an acre with 100-foot setbacks, and cattle, horses, and hogs need two acres. Slaughtering livestock inside the city is prohibited except poultry at permitted facilities.
Steps:
1. Count the flock: up to 10 fowl (hens are the practical choice) need no permit in Austin.
2. Site the coop at least 50 feet from any neighboring dwelling, or 20 feet if it is a fully enclosed coop under the 2022 rules.
3. Skip the rooster. They are legal, but crowing complaints are enforced under the noise code.
4. Check Austin Resource Recovery for the current chicken-keeping class and $75 rebate offer.
5. Keep the coop clean and dry; odor and pest complaints are what bring code officers out.
6. Neighbor's coop too close or rooster crowing at dawn? Document dates and times, then report through Austin 311.
Time: 15 minutes to plan a compliant setup; fee: No permit fee; the rebate pays you
Common questions:
- How many chickens can I have in Austin? Up to 10 fowl on a residential lot with no permit, under City Code Chapter 3-2.
- How far does the coop have to be from my neighbor's house? At least 50 feet from any dwelling you do not own, or 20 feet if the enclosure meets the enclosed-coop requirements adopted in 2022.
- Are roosters legal in Austin? Yes, but crowing is enforced under the Chapter 9-2 noise rules and repeated complaints can force removal.
- Is the $75 chicken rebate real? Austin Resource Recovery has offered a $75 rebate to residents who complete its free chicken-keeping class. Check ARR's current rebate offerings before planning around it.
- What about goats or other livestock? Goats and miniature livestock need at least a one-acre lot with 100-foot setbacks; cattle, horses, and hogs need two acres.
Official source: Austin City Code Title 3: Animal Regulation - https://library.municode.com/tx/austin/codes/code_of_ordinances/340792?nodeId=TIT3ANRE
More official sources: 2022 Fowl Enclosure Amendment - https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=382432
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## SXSW, ACL, and F1: an Austin resident survival guide
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-event-survival
Summary: Festival weekends mean closures, paid parking, sound permits, and tow risk. The ACE closure map shows what is permitted on your block before crowds arrive.
Short answer: When SXSW, ACL, or Formula 1 takes over, the resident playbook is short. First, check the Austin Center for Events Upcoming Special Event Street Closures map: it shows every street event the city has permitted, with routes and affected areas, and it is the canonical source - though it can change without warning and may not list every closure. Second, move your car before closures and paid-parking enforcement start; tow risk during event weekends is real, and if your street is in a Residential Permit Parking zone, your permit already protects your curb. Third, know the sound rules: a residential source can hit 75 dB from 10 am to 10 pm, and after 10 pm it must be inaudible past the property line - venues and stages run on Outdoor Music Venue or temporary sound permits instead. Fourth, plan transit like a local: expect rideshare surge pricing, and use CapMetro, bike routes, or a short walk past the closure edge. Something unpermitted - a blocked street, an amped backyard show past 10 pm? Report it through Austin 311 with dates and times.
Steps:
1. Check the ACE Upcoming Special Event Street Closures map for your block the week before the event.
2. Move cars off closing streets and paid-parking zones before enforcement starts; tow trucks work event weekends.
3. If your street is in an RPP zone, confirm permits are current - they are your curb protection during events.
4. Know the sound limits: 75 dB max from residential sources 10 am-10 pm; inaudible beyond the property line 10 pm-10 am.
5. Plan CapMetro, bike, or walking routes; expect rideshare surges near venues.
6. Hosting a backyard party? Keep amplified sound inside the residential limits or look up the temporary sound permit rules.
7. Report unpermitted closures, blocked access, or late-night amplified sound through Austin 311 with dates and times.
Time: 10 minutes the week before; fee: Free
Common questions:
- Where do I see official street closures for SXSW, ACL, or F1? The Austin Center for Events Upcoming Special Event Street Closures map lists permitted street events and routes. It is informational and can change without warning.
- Can my street be closed without notice? Permitted closures appear on the ACE map in advance. If a closure blocks your access and is not on the map, report it through 311.
- How loud can a backyard party be during SXSW? The same as any other week: 75 dB max from 10 am to 10 pm measured at the property line, and effectively inaudible beyond it from 10 pm to 10 am.
- Does my RPP permit still work during festivals? Yes - that is the point of the zone. Permit holders keep curb access while event traffic is restricted.
Official source: Austin Center for Events: Upcoming Special Event Street Closures - https://www.austintexas.gov/ace/upcoming-special-event-street-closures
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## A PODS or dumpster on your Austin street: the permit
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-pods-street-permit
Summary: A storage container in the street needs a city right-of-way permit: case-by-case approval, two spaces, Type III barricades, 3 business days ahead.
Short answer: If a moving or storage container (PODS, Pack-Rat, a dumpster) has to sit in the street rather than on your driveway, it is in the public right-of-way and needs a city permit. Austin issues these case-by-case through the AB+C portal as a Right of Way parking permit: you describe who, what, when, where, and why, attach an image of the exact placement spot, and name the parking zones you will occupy. Plan on reserving two parking spaces and placing Type III barricades on both sides of the container. Timing matters: submit the request at least 3 business days before you need it and pay at least 2 business days ahead, or the request can be rejected. Permits cannot be issued for No Parking or handicap zones, cannot be used for advertising displays or private parking, and cannot be extended - get the dates right the first time. A container on your own driveway needs none of this; the permit is only for the public right-of-way. Using a forklift or heavy equipment to load? That can require a separate Temporary Use of Right-of-Way permit.
Steps:
1. Exhaust the private option first: a container fully on your driveway or lot needs no ROW permit.
2. Photograph the exact street spot where the container would sit.
3. Create or use your AB+C portal account and apply under Right of Way permits (parking), describing who, what, when, where, why.
4. Submit at least 3 business days before placement and pay at least 2 business days ahead.
5. Reserve two parking spaces and place Type III barricades on both sides of the container.
6. Keep the permit dates accurate - extensions are not issued; a longer job needs a new request.
Time: 15 minutes to request, 3 business days of lead time; fee: Parking permit fees vary by block and duration
Common questions:
- Do I need a permit for a PODS container in Austin? Only if it sits in the public right-of-way (the street). A container fully on your driveway or private lot needs no ROW permit.
- How far ahead do I request the permit? Submit at least 3 business days before placement and pay at least 2 business days ahead, or the request can be rejected.
- What does the city require around the container? Two reserved parking spaces and Type III barricades on both sides of the device, plus a photo of the exact spot with your application.
- Can I extend the permit if my move runs long? No. ROW parking permits cannot be extended; you submit a new request with accurate dates.
- What about a dumpster for a renovation? Same lane: a dumpster in the street is a ROW placement handled case-by-case through the AB+C parking permit, with the same lead times and barricade rules.
Official source: Austin Transportation and Public Works: Right-of-Way Permits - https://www.austintexas.gov/transportation-public-works/right-way-row-permits
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin noise rules: decibel limits and quiet hours
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-noise-sound-rules
Summary: Homes need no sound permit: 75 dB max from 10 am to 10 pm, nothing audible past the property line overnight. Businesses cap at 85 dB.
Short answer: Austin's noise rules (City Code Chapter 9-2) split by who makes the sound. At a home, you never need a permit: the limits are the rule itself. Sound equipment at a residence cannot exceed 75 decibels, and between 10 pm and 10 am nothing may be audible beyond the property line at all. Businesses get a different ceiling: 85 decibels measured at the property line from 10 am to 2 am, and nothing audible at the property line from 2 am to 10 am. Outdoor amplified sound at any commercial or non-residential establishment needs a permit - an Outdoor Music Venue permit for regular or recurring sound, or a Temporary Use of Outdoor Sound Equipment permit for one-time events. ACME's Entertainment Services Group reviews both; questions go to 512-974-2686. If you are on the receiving end, log dates and times and report through Austin 311 - noise is a 311 matter, not 911, unless someone is in danger.
Steps:
1. Hosting at home? No permit needed. Keep sound equipment under 75 dB and shut down anything audible past the property line at 10 pm.
2. Running a business with outdoor speakers? You need a permit: Outdoor Music Venue for recurring sound, Temporary Use of Outdoor Sound Equipment for a one-time event.
3. Business limits: 85 dB at the property line from 10 am to 2 am; nothing audible at the property line from 2 am to 10 am.
4. Permit questions go to ACME Entertainment Services at 512-974-2686.
5. On the receiving end of noise? Log dates, times, and duration, then report through Austin 311.
6. Festival weekend? The same residential limits apply on your block even when permitted stages are running downtown.
Time: 10 minutes to learn the limits; fee: Free for homes; venue permits carry fees
Common questions:
- Do I need a permit for a party at my house? No. Residential sound needs no permit - just stay under 75 dB and keep nothing audible past the property line between 10 pm and 10 am.
- What are Austin's quiet hours? For homes, 10 pm to 10 am: no sound equipment audible beyond the property line. For businesses, nothing audible at the property line from 2 am to 10 am.
- How loud can a business be? Up to 85 decibels measured at the property line between 10 am and 2 am.
- Who permits outdoor music at a bar or venue? ACME's Entertainment Services Group: an Outdoor Music Venue permit for recurring sound or a Temporary Use of Outdoor Sound Equipment permit for one-time events. Call 512-974-2686.
- How do I report a noise violation? Through Austin 311 (app or 512-974-2000) with dates, times, and duration. Keep a log if it is recurring.
Official source: Austin City Code Chapter 9-2: Noise and Amplified Sound - https://library.municode.com/tx/austin/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT9PRAC_CH9-2NOAMSO
More official sources: Outdoor Amplified Sound permits (ACME) - https://www.austintexas.gov/arts-culture/outdoor-amplified-sound
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin crash report: how to get your CR-3 fast
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-crash-report-copy
Summary: Three ways to get an Austin crash report: LexisNexis online (about $9), TxDOT CRIS ($6 regular, $8 certified), or APD Report Sales in person at $0.10 per page.
Short answer: If Austin Police worked your crash, the officer filed a Texas Peace Officer's Crash Report (CR-3) and your insurer, lawyer, or body shop will want it. You have three routes. Fastest for most people: buy it online through LexisNexis Police Reports, the city's official vendor, for about $9 - search by crash date, street names, and a driver's name. Cheapest online: TxDOT's Crash Report Online Purchase System (CRIS), which sells the same CR-3 for $6 regular or $8 certified (the certified copy is what courts and some insurers want). Cheapest overall: APD's Report Sales Unit at 715 E 8th Street, (512) 974-5499, where the public portion costs $0.10 per page. Reports are not instant: expect a lag of several days after the crash before the report clears review and shows up in any system. If your crash was on a state highway or worked by DPS or a sheriff's office, go straight to TxDOT CRIS - APD's portal only covers APD jurisdiction.
Steps:
1. Wait a few days after the crash: reports clear review before they appear in any system.
2. Try LexisNexis Police Reports first (about $9): search by crash date, street names, and a driver name.
3. Or use TxDOT CRIS: $6 for a regular copy, $8 for a certified copy, delivered by email.
4. In person: APD Report Sales Unit, 715 E 8th Street, (512) 974-5499 - $0.10 per page for the public portion.
5. Check jurisdiction: if DPS or a sheriff worked the crash, APD's portal will not have it - use CRIS.
6. Give your insurer the report number; they can often pull it themselves.
Time: 15 minutes online; fee: $6-$9 online, $0.10/page in person
Common questions:
- How much does an Austin crash report cost? About $9 through LexisNexis Police Reports online, $6 regular or $8 certified through TxDOT CRIS, or $0.10 per page in person at APD Report Sales.
- How long until my report is available? Not instant. Expect a lag of several days after the crash while the report clears review.
- What is the difference between regular and certified? A certified CR-3 ($8 via CRIS) is the official document for legal proceedings; a regular copy ($6) is fine for most insurance claims.
- My crash was on I-35. Does APD have the report? Not if DPS or a sheriff's office worked it. Crashes outside APD jurisdiction are in TxDOT's CRIS system instead.
- Can I get someone else's crash report? Crash reports have restricted and public portions. In person at APD Report Sales, only the public portion is sold at $0.10 per page.
Official source: TxDOT Crash Reports and Records - https://www.txdot.gov/data-maps/crash-reports-records.html
More official sources: Purchase an APD online crash report - https://www.austintexas.gov/services/purchase-apd-online-crash-report
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Austin variance notice: what it means and how to respond
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-variance-notice-response
Summary: A neighbor is asking Austin's Board of Adjustment to bend a zoning rule. Comment if you live or own property within 500 feet - in writing or at the hearing.
Short answer: That official-looking letter means a nearby property owner asked the Board of Adjustment for a variance - permission to deviate from a zoning rule like setbacks, height, or parking minimums. The board only grants one when special circumstances of the property make the strict rule unfair compared to what similar properties nearby enjoy, and the variance cannot hand out a special privilege the rest of the area does not have. Your leverage: under City Code 25-1-131 you are an interested party if your primary residence, property you own, or even your utility account address sits within 500 feet of the site. Interested parties can submit written comments to the case manager and speak at the public hearing. The notice lists the case number, the hearing date, and exactly which rule is at stake - start there. If you want to understand the case first, Development Services offers free 30-minute appointments (virtual or in person, English or Spanish) for interested parties with questions about a variance in progress. Approved variances expire one year after the approval date unless the board says otherwise.
Steps:
1. Read the notice closely: case number, property address, hearing date, and the specific rule the owner wants waived.
2. Check your standing: living or owning within 500 feet (or a utility account within 500 feet) makes you an interested party under 25-1-131.
3. Decide your position: support, oppose, or just ask questions - all are legitimate inputs the board weighs.
4. Send written comments to the case manager before the hearing; cite the case number and your address.
5. Or speak at the public hearing: sign up, keep it to the rule in question, and bring specifics about your property.
6. Book a free 30-minute staff appointment if you want the process explained first (virtual or in person, English or Spanish).
Time: 20 minutes to comment; fee: Free to comment or speak
Common questions:
- What is a variance? Permission from the Board of Adjustment to deviate from a zoning rule (setbacks, height, parking) when special circumstances of the property make the strict rule unfair compared to similar nearby properties.
- Do I have any say, or is it decided already? You have real standing: within 500 feet you are an interested party and can submit written comments and speak at the public hearing before the board votes.
- How do I comment on a variance case? Send written comments citing the case number to the case manager before the hearing, or sign up to speak at the hearing itself.
- Who can explain the case to me? Development Services staff: free 30-minute appointments, virtual or in person, in English or Spanish. Elaine Ramirez (512-974-2202) covers process and case status; Diana Ramirez (512-974-2241) covers deadlines and active requests.
- What happens if the variance is approved? The owner gets the exception, but it expires one year after the approval date unless the board's decision says otherwise.
Official source: Board of Adjustment Support (Austin Development Services) - https://www.austintexas.gov/development-services/board-adjustment-support
More official sources: Austin City Code 25-1-131: Interested Parties - https://library.municode.com/tx/austin/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT25LADE_CH25-1GEREPR_ART6INPANOPUHEPR_DIV1INPANO
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Request traffic calming on your Austin street
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/requests/austin-speed-management-request
Summary: Austin takes speed-study requests twice a year, April and October, 60 per cycle. Streets need 60% residential frontage and under 10,000 cars a day.
Short answer: Speeding is the leading factor in Austin's fatal crashes - it drove 24% of them from 2013 to 2017 - and the city runs a formal speed management program for neighborhood streets. The honest news first: this is no longer a petition program where enough signatures win a speed bump. Austin now scores and ranks streets on crash history, prevailing speeds, traffic volume, and community context, and treats the top of the list first. Your lever is the resident request: twice a year, in April and October, the city opens an intake window and accepts up to 60 resident-requested streets per cycle, considered in the order received. On top of that, staff pick another 120 streets a year from crash and street-width data. Eligibility is mechanical: local streets and residential collectors with at least 60% adjacent residential use and under 10,000 vehicles a day. If your street does not make the cut in a cycle, the request does not roll over - resubmit in the next one. Streets that fall outside the criteria get routed to other programs (pedestrian crossing, Vision Zero rapid response, speed display signs), so a no here is not always a dead end.
Steps:
1. Check eligibility: your street must be at least 60% residential along its frontage and carry under 10,000 vehicles a day.
2. Watch for the intake window: requests open in April and October, 60 resident streets per cycle.
3. Submit early in the window: streets are considered in the order requests arrive.
4. The city collects speed and volume data on selected streets, then scores them citywide.
5. Top-ranked streets become speed management projects after engineering review sets the limits.
6. Not selected? The request expires with the cycle - resubmit in the next April or October window.
Time: 15 minutes to submit; fee: Free
Common questions:
- When can I request a speed study? Twice a year, in April and October. The city accepts up to 60 resident-requested streets per cycle in the order received.
- Does my street qualify? Local streets and residential collectors qualify if at least 60% of the adjacent use is residential and daily traffic is under 10,000 vehicles.
- Do I need a petition from my neighbors? No. Austin replaced the petition model with data scoring: crash history, prevailing speeds, volume, and context decide the ranking.
- What happens after I submit? The city collects speed and volume data on selected streets, scores them citywide, and turns top-ranked streets into speed management projects after engineering review.
- My request was not picked. Now what? It does not carry over. Resubmit in the next intake cycle - and streets outside the criteria may still get help through pedestrian crossing, Vision Zero, or speed display sign programs.
Official source: Speed Management (Austin Transportation and Public Works) - https://www.austintexas.gov/transportation-public-works/speed-management
Source review: August 26, 2026; recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

## Original data in full

## Austin 311 response times, from the city's own data
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/data/austin-311-response-times
Summary: How long Austin 311 requests actually take: volumes, share closed, and median and p90 days to close by request type, from the official 311 public dataset.
Window: 2025-09-06 to 2026-09-06; 279074 requests created, 263959 marked closed.
Days to close by request type (median / 90th percentile):
- ARR - Garbage: 25299 requests, median 1 days, p90 2.7 days
- DSD - Request Code Officer: 24144 requests, median 3.2 days, p90 20.9 days
- TPW - Parking Violation Enforcement: 22956 requests, median 0.1 days, p90 0.4 days
- ARR - Compost: 15069 requests, median 2.3 days, p90 4.8 days
- TPW - Traffic Signal - Maintenance: 13443 requests, median 0 days, p90 0.9 days
- ARR - Bulk: 12722 requests, median 9.7 days, p90 23.9 days
- ARR - Recycling: 12129 requests, median 1.7 days, p90 3.6 days
- APD - Vehicle Abatement Report: 9485 requests, median 23.8 days, p90 70.9 days
- Animal Protection - Loose Dog: 9032 requests, median 1.5 days, p90 5.7 days
- 311 CC - Other: 7877 requests, median 0 days, p90 0.4 days
- ARR - Dead Animal Collection: 6501 requests, median 0.5 days, p90 0.9 days
- Animal Protection - Injured/Sick Animal: 6074 requests, median 0 days, p90 0.4 days
Method: Volumes are full-dataset aggregates. Days-to-close uses the 5,000 most recent closed requests per type within the window; median and p90 are computed from that sample.
Source: Austin 311 Public Data (City of Austin open data) - https://data.austintexas.gov/Utilities-and-City-Services/Austin-311-Public-Data/xwdj-i9he
Computed 2026-09-06.

## Comparisons in full

## Austin property tax protest options compared
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/compare/austin-property-tax-protest-options
Summary: Protesting a Travis County appraisal yourself, hiring a tax firm, or having ATX Untangled file it: cost, effort, and deadline side by side.
Three realistic ways to protest a Travis County appraisal. The deadline is the same for all three: May 15, or 30 days after the appraisal district mails your Notice of Appraised Value, whichever is later.
Options:
- Do it yourself: cost: Free. The appraisal district charges nothing to file a protest. What you do: You file online through the Travis CAD protest portal, gather comparable sales or condition photos, and handle the informal review and any Appraisal Review Board hearing yourself. Best for: Owners with an evening or two to gather evidence and a clear argument: comps, condition photos, or unequal appraisal. Watch out: Missing the deadline ends the protest for the year, and evidence quality decides the outcome.
- Hire a property tax firm: cost: Commonly 25 to 50 percent of your first-year tax savings, charged only if the firm wins a reduction. Some firms add minimum fees. What you do: You sign an appointment-of-agent form; the firm files, negotiates, and attends hearings for you. Best for: Higher-value homes and owners who want a fully hands-off process. Watch out: The fee comes out of year-one savings, and many firms renew automatically each year unless you cancel.
- ATX Untangled: cost: Free. ATX Untangled is funded by one Austinite and does not take a percentage of your savings. What you do: You answer a few questions; ATX prepares the protest, files it with the district only after your OK, and saves the confirmation so there is proof it landed. Best for: Owners who want the protest filed correctly and on time without paying a percentage of the savings. Watch out: ATX is independent and not a law firm; complex commercial valuations may still want specialist counsel.
Bottom line: For most Austin homeowners the choice is time versus money: DIY is free but takes an evening or two, firms take 25 to 50 percent of the first-year savings, and ATX Untangled files the protest for free with your OK. Whatever you pick, file by May 15 or 30 days after your notice was mailed, whichever is later.
Common questions:
- What is the deadline to protest a Travis County appraisal? May 15, or 30 days after the appraisal district mails your Notice of Appraised Value, whichever is later. Notices usually go out in April, so most owners face the May 15 date.
- What do property tax protest firms charge in Texas? Most work on contingency: 25 to 50 percent of your first-year tax savings, owed only if they win a reduction. Published examples include 50 percent in O'Connor's posted terms and a 25 to 50 percent range across Texas firms. Some add minimum fees or auto-renew annually.
- What happens after a protest is filed? The district offers an informal review where many protests settle. If you do not settle, the case goes to an Appraisal Review Board hearing, where you present evidence and the board sets the value.
Source: Travis Central Appraisal District protests - https://traviscad.org/protests/
More sources: Texas Comptroller: protesting your property appraisal - https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/property-tax/protests/
More sources: Ownwell: what property tax protest companies cost - https://www.ownwell.com/blog/property-tax-protest-companies-cost
More sources: O'Connor property tax service terms (50% contingency) - https://www.poconnor.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Our-Terms.pdf
Source review: checked 2026-09-06.

## Austin permit expediters compared
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/compare/austin-permit-expediters-compared
Summary: Hiring a private permit expediter, using the City of Austin's own expedited review, or letting ATX Untangled chase the application: cost and fit side by side.
Three ways to get an Austin building permit unstuck. The right one depends on project size: private expediters are built for commercial work, the City's expedited review is the official paid fast lane, and ATX Untangled handles the resident-scale chasing for free.
Options:
- Private permit expediter: cost: Commonly $75 to $300 an hour, or a flat retainer; one Austin firm lists about $1,800 to manage an expedited new-home application. What you do: The expediter prepares, submits, and shepherds your plans through plan review and corrections. Best for: Commercial projects and builders with repeated, complex submittals. Watch out: Expediter fees stack on top of the City's review fees, and quality varies, so check references.
- City expedited plan review: cost: The City of Austin's official expedited review bills hourly per review discipline, on top of standard permit fees. What you do: You request it through Development Services and attend the scheduled review meetings with the reviewers. Best for: Projects on a deadline where paying the City directly is cleaner than hiring a middleman. Watch out: Expedited means faster meetings, not guaranteed approval; the plans still have to pass review.
- ATX Untangled: cost: Free for residents. What you do: ATX checks your application status, explains the hold-up in plain language, and prepares or files the resident-scale requests, with your OK before anything is filed. Best for: Homeowners checking a permit status, responding to a reviewer comment, or chasing a stalled application. Watch out: ATX is not an expediter and does not manage commercial plan review.
Bottom line: For a homeowner chasing one permit, start free: look up the application status, and let ATX Untangled chase the stall. Reserve the City's expedited review for a real deadline, and private expediters for commercial work where $75 to $300 an hour buys back more than it costs.
Common questions:
- How much does a permit expediter cost in Austin? Private expediters commonly charge $75 to $300 an hour or flat retainers per application; one published Austin price list shows about $1,800 to manage an expedited new-home application. The City's own expedited review bills hourly per review discipline instead.
- Is the City of Austin's expedited review the same as hiring an expediter? No. Expedited plan review is the City's official paid fast lane: hourly fees per review discipline and scheduled meetings with reviewers. A private expediter is a contractor you hire to manage the submittal itself.
- How do I check an Austin permit status for free? Look up the address on the City's property profile or the Austin Build + Connect portal. ATX Untangled can also check the status and chase a stalled application for free.
Source: City of Austin expedited building plan review - https://www.austintexas.gov/development-services/expedited-building-plan-review
More sources: Austin Build + Connect portal - https://abc.austintexas.gov
More sources: PermitFlow: Austin permit expediters - https://www.permitflow.com/blog/austin-permit-expediter
More sources: Pronto Permit ATX service fees - https://prontopermitatx.com/new-permit-schedule
Source review: checked 2026-09-06.

## Guías completas en español (traducción beta)

## Ayuda con el recibo de servicios públicos en Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/es/guias/austin-utility-bill-help
Resumen: Dónde los residentes de Austin pueden revisar descuentos en servicios, ayuda de emergencia para el recibo y las rutas oficiales de asistencia vigentes.
Respuesta breve: Los residentes de Austin deben confirmar que el recibo es de City of Austin Utilities, revisar los descuentos CAP vigentes y contactar a Customer Care para las instrucciones actuales de CAP o Plus 1. Customer Care o la agencia de servicios que administra el programa confirma las instrucciones vigentes y cualquier asistencia.
Próximos pasos:
1. Confirma que el recibo es de City of Austin Utilities.
2. Revisa los tipos de descuento CAP vigentes en la página oficial de Austin Energy.
3. Pide a Customer Care las instrucciones actuales de Plus 1 y la ruta de la agencia de servicios que lo administra.
4. Guarda la respuesta oficial y luego revisa un recibo posterior para confirmar cualquier cambio aprobado.
Fuente oficial: Austin Energy Customer Assistance Program - https://austinenergy.com/rates/residential-rates/other-line-items-on-your-bill

## Ayuda con los impuestos de propiedad en Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/es/guias/austin-property-tax-help
Resumen: Encuentra la oficina correcta del Condado de Travis para una factura de impuestos, una exención, un plan de pago, un cambio de dirección o una protesta.
Respuesta breve: Dos oficinas locales manejan partes distintas de una pregunta de impuestos de propiedad del Condado de Travis. El Travis Central Appraisal District (TCAD) maneja los valores tasados, los registros de propiedad, las exenciones y las protestas. La Oficina de Impuestos del Condado de Travis maneja estados de cuenta, saldos, pagos, recibos, planes de pago y direcciones postales de la cuenta.
Próximos pasos:
1. Para un estado de cuenta, saldo, recibo, pago, plan de pago o dirección postal de la cuenta, empieza con la búsqueda de cuentas de la Oficina de Impuestos del Condado de Travis.
2. Para el valor tasado, la titularidad, las exenciones o una solicitud, usa la guía de propiedades y exenciones de TCAD.
3. Si no estás de acuerdo con el valor tasado, sigue el proceso de protesta de TCAD y la fecha límite del aviso oficial vigente.
4. Guarda la confirmación, el recibo o la prueba de presentación, y vuelve a revisar el registro oficial en vez de suponer que el cambio se aplicó.
Fuente oficial: Travis County property tax account search - https://tax-office.traviscountytx.gov/properties/taxes/account-search

## Ayuda con Austin 311: reporta y sigue un problema
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/es/guias/austin-311-report-and-track
Resumen: ¿Necesitas ayuda con Austin 311? Aprende qué incluir, cómo enviar un reporte no urgente a la ciudad y cómo seguirlo con tu número de servicio.
Respuesta breve: Para un problema no urgente de la Ciudad de Austin, usa Austin 311 en línea o la app, o llama al 3-1-1. Si el 3-1-1 no funciona o estás fuera de Austin, llama al 512-974-2000. Guarda el número de solicitud de servicio para revisar el estatus y dar seguimiento; llama al 911 en una emergencia.
Próximos pasos:
1. Separa las emergencias de los reportes de servicio no urgentes; llama al 911 cuando alguien esté en peligro inmediato.
2. Anota la ubicación exacta o la intersección más cercana, qué pasó y cuándo; omite información privada que no necesitas incluir.
3. Envía el reporte por Austin 311 en línea, la app, o por teléfono al 3-1-1 (512-974-2000 fuera de Austin o cuando el 3-1-1 falla).
4. Guarda el número de solicitud de servicio y úsalo para revisar el estatus o dar seguimiento con Austin 311.
Fuente oficial: Austin 3-1-1 - https://www.austintexas.gov/3-1-1

## Cómo protestar una tasación del Condado de Travis
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/es/guias/austin-property-tax-protest
Resumen: Un punto de partida práctico para revisar tu aviso de tasación, reunir evidencia y encontrar la ruta oficial de protesta.
Respuesta breve: Si una tasación o un registro de propiedad del Condado de Travis parece incorrecto, empieza con la guía oficial de protestas de TCAD. Las fechas límite, la evidencia, la revisión informal y los pasos de la Junta de Revisión de Tasaciones dependen del aviso vigente y de las instrucciones de TCAD.
Próximos pasos:
1. Relaciona la propiedad y el año fiscal con el aviso de tasación.
2. Anota errores de hecho, problemas de condición, evidencia de compra o preguntas sobre propiedades comparables.
3. Revisa las instrucciones vigentes de TCAD sobre evidencia y protestas antes de elegir una respuesta.
4. Guarda la confirmación de la presentación y cada fecha límite de revisión informal o audiencia.
Fuente oficial: Travis Central Appraisal District protests - https://traviscad.org/protests

## Transferencia de título de vehículo de Texas en Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/es/guias/texas-vehicle-title-transfer
Resumen: Prepara una venta privada, compra, regalo u otro cambio de título de vehículo de Texas en el área de Austin con la lista vigente del condado y de TxDMV.
Respuesta breve: En una compra privada en Texas, el comprador presenta la solicitud de título en una oficina de impuestos del condado. TxDMV dice que el vehículo debe titularse a nombre del comprador dentro de 30 días de la venta. Prepara el título firmado, el Formulario 130-U, comprobante de seguro y cualquier documento propio de la transacción antes de la visita.
Próximos pasos:
1. Identifica si la transacción es venta privada, regalo, traslado de otro estado a Texas, liberación de gravamen o solo título.
2. Compara el VIN y los nombres en el título, luego reúne el Formulario 130-U, el seguro y los documentos de gravamen o regalo que apliquen.
3. Presenta la solicitud en la oficina de impuestos del condado correspondiente dentro del plazo oficial vigente; TxDMV indica 30 días desde la fecha de venta para el comprador.
4. Si vendiste el vehículo, presenta una Notificación de Transferencia de Vehículo (Vehicle Transfer Notification) y guarda su confirmación con el registro de la venta.
Fuente oficial: Travis County Tax Office vehicle title transfers - https://tax-office.traviscountytx.gov/vehicles/titles/titles-options/transfers/buying

## Cita de DPS en Texas: cómo encontrar un horario libre
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/es/guias/texas-driver-license-appointment
Resumen: Los horarios se liberan cuando otros cancelan. Cómo usar el sistema oficial de DPS, buscar más allá de tu oficina cercana y elegir el servicio correcto.
Respuesta breve: La mayoría de los problemas de sin citas son problemas de búsqueda. El sistema oficial de DPS libera horarios durante el día cuando otras personas cancelan, puedes apartar en cualquier oficina de Texas (las más pequeñas cerca de Austin suelen tener fechas más próximas) y muchas renovaciones, reposiciones y cambios de dirección se pueden hacer en línea sin cita. Elige el servicio exacto primero; el servicio equivocado te regresa a casa desde la ventanilla.
Próximos pasos:
1. Revisa primero los servicios en línea de DPS; una renovación, reposición o cambio de dirección elegible evita la oficina.
2. En el sistema oficial de citas, elige el servicio exacto, como licencia por primera vez, renovación en persona, tarjeta de identificación o examen práctico.
3. Busca en más de una oficina; amplía a ciudades cercanas para fechas más próximas.
4. Vuelve a revisar el sistema en distintos momentos del día para encontrar cancelaciones, aparta un horario que te sirva y guarda la confirmación.
5. Reúne los documentos de REAL ID antes del día de la cita.
Fuente oficial: Texas DPS driver-license services - https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license

## Ayuda con comida gratis en Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/es/guias/free-food-austin
Resumen: Encuentra una despensa, comedor o distribución móvil vigente en Austin, confírmala antes de salir y conecta SNAP o beneficios de frutas y verduras.
Respuesta breve: Si necesitas comida ahora, busca por ZIP en el localizador del Central Texas Food Bank y llama al sitio antes de viajar, porque los horarios, el inventario y las reglas del sitio cambian. Usa 2-1-1 Texas para una referencia de respaldo, Your Texas Benefits para solicitudes y estatus de SNAP o WIC, y Double Up Texas solo después de confirmar una ubicación participante y las reglas vigentes.
Próximos pasos:
1. Busca por ZIP en el localizador del Central Texas Food Bank una despensa, distribución móvil, comedor u opción por edad.
2. Llama al sitio o al 2-1-1 antes de salir para confirmar el horario de hoy, la disponibilidad, el transporte, la accesibilidad y las reglas del sitio.
3. Si los beneficios pueden servirte, solicita o revisa el estatus solo en el portal oficial Your Texas Benefits.
4. Si SNAP está activo, verifica la ubicación y las reglas vigentes de Double Up antes de comprar, y mantén una ruta de comida de respaldo.
Fuente oficial: Central Texas Food Bank Find Food Now - https://www.centraltexasfoodbank.org/find-food-now

## ¿Tu arrendador en Austin no repara? Tus opciones oficiales
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/es/guias/austin-landlord-not-fixing
Resumen: Documenta, notifica por escrito y reporta a Austin 311 o Austin Code; puedes reportar de forma anónima y la represalia está prohibida.
Respuesta breve: Si tu arrendador en Austin no repara un problema grave de salud o seguridad, el canal oficial es Austin 311 (en linea, la app o el 512-974-2000): un oficial de código inspecciona y puede ordenar la reparacion. Puedes reportar sin dar tu nombre. Primero notifica al arrendador por escrito y guarda fechas, fotos y respuestas. La ley de Texas prohíbe la represalia por un reporte de buena fe, pero no suspendas la renta ni deduzcas reparaciones sin asesoria legal individualizada.
Próximos pasos:
1. Documenta la condicion con fotos, fechas, temperaturas y como afecta tu salud o seguridad.
2. Notifica al arrendador por escrito del problema y guarda una copia con fecha.
3. Si no hay reparacion, reporta a Austin 311 en linea, en la app o al 512-974-2000; pide el numero de solicitud de servicio.
4. Puedes reportar de forma anónima; un oficial de código inspecciona y puede emitir un aviso de violación con plazo.
5. Guarda cada respuesta; si el problema sigue, el historial de 311 respalda la escalada y las opciones legales.
Fuente oficial: Report a code violation - https://www.austintexas.gov/services/report-code-violation

## Depósito de seguridad de Texas no devuelto
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/es/guias/texas-security-deposit-not-returned
Resumen: Documenta un depósito de renta faltante o reducido, el aviso de dirección de reenvío, el plazo de 30 días y la siguiente ruta oficial de ayuda legal.
Respuesta breve: Para un alquiler residencial en Texas, primero documenta cuándo entregaste la vivienda y cuándo le diste al propietario una dirección de reenvío por escrito. La ley de Texas generalmente exige el saldo del depósito y cualquier deducción detallada dentro del plazo legal, pero el contrato, la renta sin pagar y otras excepciones importan. Conserva la evidencia y usa la guía actual de ayuda legal; solo un tribunal puede decidir la mala fe o qué se debe devolver.
Próximos pasos:
1. Arma una línea de tiempo factual con el fin del contrato, la entrega de la vivienda, la devolución de llaves, la dirección de reenvío por escrito, el pago del depósito y cualquier reembolso o deducción.
2. Compara el contrato con las reglas vigentes del Código de Propiedad de Texas sobre reembolsos, direcciones de reenvío, desgaste normal, deducciones y renta sin pagar.
3. Si el problema sigue sin resolverse, usa la guía vigente de TexasLawHelp sobre cartas de reclamo y conserva prueba de lo que enviaste y cómo se entregó.
4. Acude a un recurso calificado de ayuda legal o al Justice Court antes de presentar cualquier demanda; un tribunal, no esta guía, decide la responsabilidad, la mala fe y cualquier recuperación.
Fuente oficial: Texas Attorney General renters' rights - https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/consumer-protection/home-real-estate-and-travel/renters-rights

## Opciones de Austin Municipal Court para una citación penal
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/es/guias/austin-municipal-court-payment-options
Resumen: Confirma una citación penal de Austin, protege la fecha de respuesta y compara pago, audiencia, desestimación, aplazamiento o asequibilidad ante un juez.
Respuesta breve: Para una citación penal que se tramita por el proceso Handle a citation de Austin Municipal Court, pagar multas, cuotas y costos requiere una declaración de culpabilidad o de no contender. Las citaciones civiles de estacionamiento usan un proceso aparte. En los casos penales, los pagos mensuales más bajos y el servicio comunitario requieren información financiera y la aprobación de un juez. Lee cada opción antes de pagar; el Tribunal decide la resolución disponible, y ATX Untangled no elige una declaración ni da consejo legal.
Próximos pasos:
1. Usa la consulta oficial de casos del Tribunal para confirmar la citación, el cargo, la fecha de respuesta, el saldo y si ya existe una audiencia u orden.
2. Lee las rutas de pago, audiencia, desestimación y aplazamiento antes de presentar una declaración o enviar dinero; busca consejo legal si necesitas ayuda para elegir.
3. Si pagar por completo no es viable, usa el proceso oficial de pagos alternativos del Tribunal y la ruta de declaración financiera antes de hacer un pago parcial no aprobado.
4. Guarda la orden del Tribunal, el plan, las instrucciones de la hoja de horas, el recibo y cada fecha de seguimiento hasta que el estatus del caso muestre el resultado esperado.
Fuente oficial: Austin Municipal Court citation options - https://www.austintexas.gov/services/handle-citation

## Recolección perdida de basura o reciclaje en Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/es/guias/austin-missed-trash-pickup
Resumen: Confirma el día de recolección, luego presenta el reporte de recolección perdida con Austin 311 y guarda el número de solicitud de servicio.
Respuesta breve: Reporta una recolección perdida de basura, reciclaje o composta de la Ciudad de Austin a Austin 311 en línea o por teléfono. Confirma primero que el contenedor salió a tiempo y que el horario no cambió por un feriado, y guarda el número de solicitud de servicio de 311 para seguir la respuesta.
Próximos pasos:
1. Revisa el horario oficial de recolección para tu dirección y descarta un cambio por feriado.
2. Confirma que el contenedor se dejó fuera a tiempo, en el lugar correcto, y sin estar bloqueado o marcado por un problema de reglas.
3. Presenta el reporte de recolección perdida con Austin 311 y guarda el número de solicitud de servicio.
4. Revisa el estatus con el número de la solicitud y da seguimiento con ese mismo número en vez de presentar reportes duplicados.
Fuente oficial: Austin Resource Recovery residential collection - https://www.austintexas.gov/resource-recovery/residential-trash-collection

## ¿Cómo encontrar un auto remolcado en Austin?
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/es/guias/austin-towed-car
Resumen: Empieza con los registros oficiales de la policía y las grúas, confirma dónde está el vehículo y conoce las cuotas y los plazos de disputa antes de recogerlo.
Respuesta breve: Si tu auto desapareció en Austin, empieza con los recursos de control de grúas del Departamento de Policía de Austin (APD) para saber si fue remolcado y dónde está retenido. Las cuotas de remolque y almacenamiento crecen cada día, así que confirma rápido la ubicación, los documentos requeridos y los derechos de disputa; nunca pagues un cobro solo en efectivo sin comprobante.
Próximos pasos:
1. Descarta robo o recuperación por el prestamista, luego usa los recursos oficiales de grúas de APD para confirmar el remolque y localizar el vehículo.
2. Llama al corralón para saber horarios, cargos actuales y los documentos necesarios para la entrega.
3. Lleva identificación con foto, prueba de titularidad o autorización y un método de pago que el corralón acepte; pide un recibo detallado.
4. Si el remolque o las cuotas parecen incorrectos, usa la guía al consumidor de TDLR y el derecho a una audiencia de remolque en la corte de justicia dentro del plazo.
Fuente oficial: Austin Police Department wrecker enforcement - https://www.austintexas.gov/police/divisions/wrecker-enforcement

## ¿Cómo reportar un problema de ruido en Austin?
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/es/guias/austin-noise-complaint
Resumen: Documenta el patrón primero, luego usa el canal oficial correcto: 911 solo para emergencias, 311 o Austin Code para ruido continuo.
Respuesta breve: Los problemas de ruido continuos en Austin se reportan a través de Austin 311, y los problemas repetidos o sin resolver pueden llegar a Austin Code con un historial documentado. Usa 911 solo cuando haya una emergencia inmediata; un registro con fechas, horarios, fuente y efectos es lo que convierte una queja en un caso que se puede atender.
Próximos pasos:
1. Anota fechas, horarios, duración, la fuente y cómo el ruido afecta el sueño, el trabajo o la seguridad.
2. Usa 911 solo para una emergencia inmediata; de lo contrario presenta el reporte con Austin 311 y guarda el número de solicitud de servicio.
3. Para problemas repetidos, escala con el historial completo en vez de presentar quejas aisladas.
4. Guarda cada respuesta y razón de cierre para que el siguiente paso se apoye en el registro.
Fuente oficial: Austin 311 service request - https://www.austintexas.gov/services/submit-3-1-1-request

## ¿Cómo obtener un acta de nacimiento en Austin?
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/es/guias/austin-birth-certificate
Resumen: Pídela a través de la Office of Vital Records de Austin Public Health o del estado, con la identificación y elegibilidad correctas.
Respuesta breve: Las actas de nacimiento de Austin las expide la Office of Vital Records de Austin Public Health para nacimientos locales, o Texas Vital Statistics para cualquier nacimiento en Texas. La elegibilidad, las identificaciones aceptadas, las tarifas y las formas de pedido las fijan las oficinas oficiales, así que confirma los requisitos vigentes antes de ir o enviar algo por correo.
Próximos pasos:
1. Confirma que el nacimiento se registró en Austin o en otra parte de Texas para elegir la oficina correcta.
2. Revisa la página oficial para saber quién puede pedir el registro y qué identificaciones se aceptan.
3. Elige la forma de pedido vigente (en persona, por correo o la ruta oficial en línea) y la tarifa.
4. Guarda el recibo o la información de rastreo y verifica los datos del acta cuando llegue.
Fuente oficial: City of Austin birth or death certificates - https://www.austintexas.gov/services/get-birth-or-death-certificate

## ¿Cómo registrarse para votar en Austin, Texas?
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/es/guias/texas-register-to-vote
Resumen: El registro en Texas requiere un formulario impreso y firmado enviado al registrador de votantes de tu condado, al menos 30 días antes de la elección.
Respuesta breve: Texas no ofrece registro de votantes completamente en línea: llenas la solicitud oficial, la imprimes y la firmas, y la envías por correo o la entregas al registrador de votantes de tu condado, y debe llegar al menos 30 días antes de la elección en la que quieres votar. Los registros de Travis County pasan por la división de registro de votantes de la Travis County Tax Office.
Próximos pasos:
1. Confirma tu elegibilidad y si necesitas un registro nuevo o una actualización de un registro existente.
2. Llena la solicitud oficial, imprímela y fírmala a mano.
3. Envía por correo o entrega el formulario firmado al registrador de votantes del condado antes del plazo de 30 días.
4. Revisa el estatus del registro en línea después del procesamiento y guarda el certificado de votante cuando llegue.
Fuente oficial: VoteTexas voter registration - https://www.votetexas.gov/register-to-vote/

## ¿Cómo disputar un recibo alto de Austin Energy?
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/es/guias/austin-electric-bill-dispute
Resumen: Revisa primero la lectura del medidor, el uso y los detalles de la tarifa; luego usa la ruta de disputas de City of Austin Utilities.
Respuesta breve: Un recibo alto de Austin Energy empieza por revisar si el aumento viene del uso, una lectura estimada, un cambio de tarifa o cuota, o un problema del medidor. City of Austin Utilities tiene una ruta oficial de disputas a través de Customer Care; documenta las lecturas y los recibos antes de llamar para que la disputa sea sobre hechos.
Próximos pasos:
1. Compara el uso, el tipo de lectura del medidor y la tarifa del recibo actual contra recibos anteriores.
2. Descarta el uso estacional, una lectura estimada o un cambio de tarifa o cuota antes de llamar.
3. Contacta a Customer Care de City of Austin Utilities con la cuenta, los recibos y tus propias fotos del medidor si es seguro tomarlas.
4. Pide la disputa o revisión por escrito y guarda el número de caso y la respuesta.
Fuente oficial: City of Austin Utilities bill disputes - https://coautilities.com/wps/wcm/connect/occ/coa/util/support/billing/bill-disputes

## Composta en Austin: reglas del carrito verde y horario
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/es/guias/austin-compost-rules-schedule
Resumen: Que va en el carrito verde, reglas de colocacion, limites de articulos extra y como ver tu dia de recoleccion o reportar una falla.
Respuesta breve: Austin Resource Recovery recoge la composta cada semana en casas unifamiliares hasta cuatroplex. Coloca el carrito verde en la banqueta antes de las 5:30 a.m. de tu dia de recoleccion, a cinco pies de otros carritos y con la tapa cerrada. Van restos de comida (incluidos carne, lacteos y huesos), papel sucio de comida, recortes de jardin y fibras naturales, porque la ciudad los procesa en una planta comercial. No incluyas liquidos, grasas, aceites, plastico, vidrio, metal ni unicel. El material extra va en bolsas de papel para jardin o en un contenedor reutilizable junto al carrito, hasta 15 articulos; lo que este en bolsas de plastico se cobra como basura. Consulta tu dia en la herramienta oficial de horarios y reporta un carrito no recogido a Austin 311 dentro de dos dias.
Próximos pasos:
1. Consulta tu dia de recoleccion en la herramienta oficial de horarios de la ciudad y activa los recordatorios.
2. Llena el carrito verde con restos de comida, papel sucio de comida, recortes de jardin y fibras naturales; manten la tapa cerrada.
3. Coloca el carrito antes de las 5:30 a.m., a cinco pies de otros carritos y sin bloquear banquetas ni ciclovias.
4. Pon el material extra en bolsas de papel para jardin o en un contenedor reutilizable (maximo 34 galones y 50 libras) junto al carrito, hasta 15 articulos.
5. Si no recogen el carrito, reporta a Austin 311 dentro de dos dias y guarda el numero de solicitud.
Fuente oficial: Austin curbside composting collection - https://www.austintexas.gov/resource-recovery/programs/curbside-composting-collection

## Reportar estacionamiento ilegal en Austin: 311 y mas
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/es/guias/austin-report-illegal-parking
Resumen: Un auto bloqueando tu entrada, la banqueta o un carril bici se reporta a Austin 311; la ciudad envia al equipo de estacionamiento.
Respuesta breve: El estacionamiento ilegal en calles publicas de Austin lo atiende el equipo de estacionamiento de Transportation and Public Works, despachado por 311. Reporta la ubicacion exacta, la infraccion y cuanto tiempo lleva el vehiculo ahi. Una entrada bloqueada o un riesgo de seguridad (hidrante, cruce peatonal, carril bici) recibe prioridad. Desde febrero de 2025 el codigo incluye multas nuevas por bloquear carriles bici. Guarda el numero de caso de 311 por si necesitas dar seguimiento.
Próximos pasos:
1. Anota la ubicacion exacta: la direccion o la cuadra y el cruce mas cercano.
2. Identifica la infraccion: entrada bloqueada, banqueta, hidrante, cruce peatonal, carril bici o zona de no estacionar.
3. Toma una foto con fecha desde el espacio publico donde se vea el vehiculo y la infraccion, con la placa si es visible.
4. Reporta a Austin 311 en linea, en la app o por telefono; si tu entrada esta bloqueada, dilo explicitamente.
5. Guarda el numero de caso de 311 para dar seguimiento si el vehiculo sigue ahi.
Fuente oficial: Austin parking regulations and tickets - https://www.austintexas.gov/transportation-public-works/parking-regulations-and-tickets

## Reglas y horario de reciclaje en Austin
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/es/guias/austin-recycling-rules-schedule
Resumen: El reciclaje en Austin se recoge cada dos semanas y sin separar: qué va en el carrito azul, qué no, horario de salida y días festivos.
Respuesta breve: Austin Resource Recovery recoge el reciclaje residencial cada dos semanas en casas unifamiliares hasta cuatrifamiliares. El papel, los cartones de bebidas y vasos de papel con recubrimiento, los plásticos rígidos, las latas de metal, las botellas y frascos de vidrio y el cartón desarmado en piezas de aproximadamente 2 por 2 pies van sueltos en el carrito azul, sin separar y sin bolsas. Saca el carrito antes de las 5:30 a.m. el día de recolección, a cinco pies de los demás carritos y sin bloquear carriles bici ni banquetas. Tu día exacto está en la herramienta My Schedule de la ciudad, y solo el Día de Acción de Gracias, Navidad y Año Nuevo recorren el horario un día.
Próximos pasos:
1. Busca tu día de recolección en la herramienta My Schedule o en la app Austin Recycles; si vives en un condominio o townhome, escribe la dirección sin el número o letra de unidad.
2. Saca el carrito azul antes de las 5:30 a.m., a cinco pies de otros carritos y sin bloquear carriles bici ni banquetas.
3. Pon los reciclables sueltos: papel, cartones y vasos con recubrimiento, plásticos rígidos, latas, vidrio y cartón desarmado. Nunca uses bolsas para el reciclaje.
4. No incluyas bolsas de plástico, película plástica, unicel, baterías, aparatos electrónicos ni ropa; las baterías y los electrónicos van a una recolección a pedido o al Recycle and Reuse Drop-off Center.
5. Si no recogieron tu carrito, repórtalo a Austin 311 dentro de dos días; el reciclaje extra en una caja de cartón junto al carrito se recoge sin costo.
Fuente oficial: Residential curbside recycling collection - https://www.austintexas.gov/resource-recovery/programs/residential-recycling-collection

## Reportar un vehiculo abandonado en Austin: 311 y retiro
Canonical: https://atxuntangled.com/es/guias/austin-report-abandoned-vehicle
Resumen: Un vehiculo abandonado o chatarra en la calle o en propiedad privada se reporta al 311 o a Vehicle Abatement de APD. Que califica y que sigue.
Respuesta breve: La unidad de Vehicle Abatement de la policia de Austin atiende los vehiculos abandonados: reporta llamando al 311, en linea, o al (512) 974-8119. En la calle califica un vehiculo visiblemente inservible (llantas ponchadas, muy chocado o desarmado) o estacionado ilegalmente. La ciudad no etiqueta vehiculos solo por registro o inspeccion vencidos en la via publica. En la calle, una etiqueta naranja da 48 horas para arreglar o mover el vehiculo antes del remolque, y el dueno tiene 20 dias para recuperarlo antes de que se subaste. En propiedad privada, una etiqueta verde da 10 dias y el vehiculo remolcado como chatarra no se puede recuperar.
Próximos pasos:
1. Anota la ubicacion exacta: la direccion o la cuadra y el cruce mas cercano, y cuanto tiempo lleva ahi el vehiculo.
2. Fotografialo desde la via publica sin tocarlo ni entrar en el.
3. Reportalo a Austin 311 en linea, en la app o por telefono, o llama a Vehicle Abatement al (512) 974-8119.
4. Indica si esta en la calle o en propiedad privada; la ruta de propiedad privada exige un vehiculo visiblemente inservible con registro o inspeccion vencidos.
5. Guarda el numero de caso del 311 para seguir la etiqueta, la revision y el remolque.
Fuente oficial: APD Vehicle Abatement - https://www.austintexas.gov/police/divisions/vehicle-abatement

Always verify current rules and eligibility with the official source linked. ATX Untangled is independent and does not provide legal advice.