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Town FAQs
BUS FAQs
The fare is $1.00 each way
- If I do not have the correct amount of money will I receive change?
Please pay your one-way fare in exact change since the Spring Lake Transit
operators will not carry money to give change.
- Where will maps and schedules for the Spring Lake Transit System be located?
Maps and schedules for the Spring Lake Transit System will be located at Town Hall
and at each bus stop. You can also find them:
- Will FAST passes be honored?
FAST passes will not be honored by the Spring Lake Transit System.
- Will there be an option to purchase Spring Lake Transit passes?
At this time, the Spring Lake Transit System will not offer passes. Should this
change, passengers will be made aware and the options will be explained.
- Are transfers between Spring Lake Transit and FAST available?
Transfers between the Spring Lake Transit System and FAST are not available.
They are independent transportation systems.
- Will the buses be equipped to handle the needs of the elderly and handicapped passengers?
The Spring Lake Transit System buses will be equipped to meet the needs of its
elderly and handicapped riders.
- Will the buses arrive at the exact times posted?
Although the Spring Lake Transit System will make every effort to operate its
service as scheduled, times given may vary because of road, traffic and other
conditions. Please allow sufficient time in meeting your bus with variations in
schedule.
The Spring Lake Transit System is overseen by the Town of Spring Lake but is a
collaboration with Majestic Luxury Tours, Inc. and Cumberland County
Transportation. For points of contact, addresses, phone numbers and e-Mail
addresses for each of these, please click on the following link:
If the child is under school age (under the age of 6) there is no charge. If the child
is over the school age, then they will be charged the full fare of $1.00 each way.
Verification of age IF necessary will be to ask the adult accompanying the child.
- Where is the bus stop located at Cross Creek Mall?
The bus stop at Cross Creek Mall is located between Belk’s and Macy’s. (There is an
entrance into the mall between the two department stores and there is a Spring
Lake Transit sign with a schedule.)
WATER DEPARTMENT FAQs
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Who do I contact to check my high water bill?
The Revenue Collections/Revenue Billing Department at (910) 436-0241.
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I had a leak repaired can I get an adjustment of my bill?
Yes, if you can show proof of a repair by a licensed plumber or produce a receipt for repair parts that you purchased and used to make the repairs yourself. Town rules limit leak adjustments to one per customer per year.
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Who can make adjustments to my bill?
Only the Revenue Collections Supervisor, the Revenue Billing Supervisor, the Finance Director or the Town Manager can adjust your bill in accordance with the rules established by the Board of Aldermen.
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When does a request for an adjustment need to be made by?
Request for all adjustments need to be submitted by the 10th day of the month in order to be processed by the 18th. All adjustments submitted after the 10th day of the month will be processed the following month.
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The lady on the phone said I was due an adjustment, how do I get it?
Only the Revenue Collections Supervisor, the Revenue Billing Supervisor, the Finance Director or the Town Manager can adjust your bill in accordance with the rules established by the Board of Aldermen.
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I think I am being charged for too many gallons of water what do I need to do?
Call the Revenue Collections Department and request a reread or meter test. (Remember you must pay for a meter test).
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I think the Water Sewer Ordinance is not fair or wrong what can I do?
The only recourse you have is to appear before the Board of Aldermen and request that they change the ordinance or grant you an exception to policy.
FINANCE DEPARTMENT FAQs
- How does the Town determine the amount of property tax I have to pay each year?
The amount of property tax charged to each citizen is determined using a mathematical formula. Below is an example of this calculation based on a piece of property with an appraised value of $75,000 and a tax rate of 66 cents.
for example ($75,000/$100) X 0.66 = $495.00
- Who determines the appraised value of my property?
The Town of Spring Lake contracts with the County of Cumberland to perform property value appraisal services. The County also sends out the property tax bills and collects the taxes for the Town. If a citizen has a question about their tax bill or the value assigned to their property they should contact the Cumberland County Tax Dept. 
- Who determines the tax rate that I am charged?
The Town of Spring Lake's Board of Aldermen set the tax rate annually when they adopt the Town budget. Once set, the rate can not be changed until the next annual budget is adopted.
- When does the Town adopt its budget?
The Town of Spring Lake is required by North Carolina law to adopt a balanced annual budget no later than June 30th for the upcoming fiscal year.
- What is the Town of Spring Lakes fiscal year?
All North Carolina counties, cities and towns are required to have a fiscal year of July 1st through June 30th.
- What do my taxes pay for?
The property taxes collect for the Town of Spring Lake are combined with other revenues to finance the operations of the General Fund. This includes police and fire protection, street maintenance, sanitation services, inspection services, administration, building maintenance, recreation and finance.
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How do I acquire a business license from the Town of Spring Lake?
An application for a business license can be obtained from the Revenue Collections Department, located in Town Hall at 300 Ruth Street. You can also call and an application can be faxed to you or to download the application 
- How much does a business license cost?
That depends on the type of business. The Town of Spring Lake charges the basic fixed fee allowed by North Carolina State law. If you would like an estimate, you may call the Revenue Collections Department. This is located in the Water Department inside of Town Hall.
- How do I acquire a pet license?
Just bring a copy of your pet’s rabies vaccination to the Revenue Collections Department. The cost is $5.00 per spayed or neutered pet and $25.00 per pet that is not spayed or neutered. You can download an application 
- How do I pay a citation I received in the Town of Spring Lake?
All Town of Spring Lake citations can be paid at the Revenue Collections Department located in the Water Department inside Town Hall at 300 Ruth Street during normal business hours. This is only for Town of Spring Lake citations. State citations have to be paid at the County Courthouse located on Person Street in downtown Fayetteville.
FIRE DEPARTMENT FAQs
- Can I burn within the city limits?
No, city ordinances strictly prohibit this.
- Who do I contact if someone is burning illegally?
If you notice someone burning illegally within the city limits, you should call either
the Police Department’s non-emergency number at (910) 436-0350 or the Fire
Department’s non-emergency number at (910) 436-0337.
- Who do I contact if I need a fire inspection?
You should call the Fire Inspector, Steve Rosser, at (910) 436-0337 or the Inspections
Dept. at (910) 436-0241.
- How can I become a fire fighter?
There are specific qualifications and certifications necessary to become a Spring Lake
Fire Fighter. Some of those qualifications include:
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High school diploma or GED equivalent;
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NC Fire Fighter Level II Certification;
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Medical Responder License required; EMT-B License preferred or must be obtained within one year of hire date;
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NC Hazardous Materials Level I;
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Infection Control preferred or must be obtained within one year of hire date;
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Trench and Confined Space Rescue preferred or must be obtained within one year of hire date;
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21 years of age or older at the time of hire;
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Valid NC Class B Driver License; Acceptable driving record;
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Ability to wear all required PPE (Personal Protective Equipment);
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Ability to handle stressful situations;
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Flexible availability for rotating shifts;
If you meet these qualifications, fill out a Town employment application and submit it to
the Human Resources Department. If openings are available, all qualified applicants will
be considered.
- Where do I pick up a copy of a fire report?
A fire report can be picked up at the Spring Lake Fire Station from the Captain on duty.
- The fire hydrant is flowing on my street. Who do I call?
This should immediately be reported to the Spring Lake Water Department or the Water
Resources Manager at (910) 436-0241.
INSPECTIONS AND PLANNING FAQs
- When is a Permit required?
When is it necessary to obtain a building permit? Well, the answer is ALMOST ALWAYS! A permit is required anytime work is done on a building or structure, or the systems serving the structure (including plumbing, mechanical and electrical wiring) with a few exceptions, including the following.
The North Carolina State Building Code states, "No person, firm or corporation shall erect, construct, enlarge, install, alter, repair, move, improve, remove, convert or demolish any building, structure, or service system without first obtaining a permit for such from the Inspections Department having jurisdiction."
Everyday projects requiring permits include:
- Converting a residence to a business.
- Constructing a deck, screened porch, or sunroom.
- Installing an irrigation system.
- Installing a swimming pool.
- Adding or extending an electrical circuit.
- Finishing an attic or basement.
- Replacing a furnace or air conditioner.
- Installing gas logs, attic fans, skylights.
A permit is not required for:
- Replacement of non-structural, cosmetic building elements, such as: floor and wall coverings; moldings and trim; cabinets and casework; roof coverings with same materials, etc.
- Residential accessory (storage) buildings that are no more than 12 feet in any dimension.
- Replacement of electrical fixtures and components when work is not done within the wall or ceiling cavity or behind the finished wall or ceiling surface.
- Replacement of plumbing fixtures when the work does not go beyond the trap seal.
- Replacement of water heaters in the same location with the same fuel source.
Questions? Call (910) 436-0241 or visit the Inspections and Permits Department located in Town Hall Building. For most permit forms: 
- What are the Permit Office hours?
The Permit office is open from7:30AM to 6:30 PM Monday through Thursday. Field Inspectors work from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday to Thursday and are typically in the office until 9:00 AM daily and after 5:00 PM Monday to Thursday. Telephone (910) 436-0241.
- What will I need to obtain a Building Permit?
For all permits, six complete sets of site and building plans are required. A plot plan at a readable scale on letter or legal sized paper is also required, and an application must be filled out at our office. The application will require contractors' names, addresses, state license numbers, and Town of Spring Lake privilege license numbers.
- When is a Plot Plan or New Survey required?
As a rule, any time that the "footprint" of a primary or accessory building changes, a new plot plan and as-built survey are required. This includes decks, porches, and storage buildings. However, staff does have the authority to waive the survey if the construction is obviously not in the proximity of any setbacks or easements. Modifications inside the existing building shell do not require a plot plan or survey.
- Can I, as a homeowner, do my own work?
Yes, an owner of the property can do their own building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work. The owner does not need to be licensed in any of these areas, nor does he need a Town of Spring Lake Privilege License. State law requires that the property be the owner's primary residence for at least twelve months after completion of the work. You can download a Privilege License application as well as other permit forms from: 
- How is the cost of a permit determined?
The cost of a permit is compiled from several factors found on several different charts. These charts can be obtained through the Inspection's Department or by clicking the forms link to download a copy. Building Permit Fees are figured based on general cost of construction.  
- How can I access the NC Building Code?
The North Carolina State Building Code can be found at the NC Building Inspectors' Association home page under the heading "Codes Online".
- What is the process for obtaining a building permit?
The plan review process normally takes about two weeks for single family dwellings and small commercial buildings, but may take longer for larger buildings. During that time, your contractors' licenses are verified, your plot plan is checked for compliance with zoning requirements, and you building plans are checked for compliance with NC State Building Codes. If all is approved, you will be contacted to pick up your permit. Plans will be scrutinized by building plans examiners, plumbing, electrical, fire, and mechanical inspectors. Any problems found during the process are provided to the project contact for updates or corrections.
A blue-line survey of the subject property prepared by a registered North Carolina land surveyor is required. This survey must depict the natural ground elevation, flood zone, and parcel identification number (PIN).
Additional requirements and considerations:
- Water tap authorization and receipt for hook-up fees if site is served by central water. Water taps may be obtained by contacting the Spring Lake Water Department. Lots not served by central water must install a private well. A septic permit issued by the Cumberland County Health Department is required for lots not served by Town sewer.
- Six complete sets of the building plans of the proposed structure. One set of plans will be kept by the Inspection Department, one set will remain at job site, and one set is to be retained by the Contractor.
- Off-street parking and portable toilets must be provided at all construction sites.
An application for the permit will require all contractors' names, addresses, state license numbers, and Town of Spring Lake privilege license numbers.
Each respective contractor and subcontractor must possess a valid license issued by the State of North Carolina to perform his or her particular task(s).
- What are the Procedures for submitting building/Site plans? See Site and Building Plan Submittal Form on the Forms and Permits Page
- How can I schedule an Inspection?
Call (910) 436-0241 7:30 am to 6:30 pm Monday thru Thursday and ask for the Inspections Department.
POLICE DEPARTMENT FAQ's
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What are the hours of the Spring Lake Police Department?
The Spring Lake Police Department has manned patrols 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The Administrative Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. After hours and weekends, the phones are transferred to Cumberland County dispatch so the phones are manned 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- How do I contact the Spring Lake Police Department?
If it is an emergency, call 911. if it is a non-emergency, call (910) 436-0350.
- Does the Spring Lake Police Department offer fingerprinting Services?
Currently, no. This service is provided by the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office located at 131 Dick Street in Fayetteville.
- Where do I go for gun permits?
The Cumberland County Sheriff's Department located at 131 Dick Street in Fayetteville. (use the above link)
- Does Spring Lake have juvenile curfew hours?
No.
- How do I obtain a copy of a Police Report? What is the cost?
Police reports can be picked up Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, at the main Police Department located at 300 Ruth street. There is no charge for this.
- Is there a noise ordinance for Spring Lake?
Yes. There is a Town ordinance against loud, disturbing noises and sounds that impact residential life between the hours of 10:00 pm and 6:00 am.
- How do I pay for a ticket I received?
Tickets can be paid at the Cumberland County Courthouse. Waivers may be made in person before the clerk or magistrate in the county where the case is pending, to the clerk of that county by mail or online at North Carolina Court's Online Services. More information can be found at Court System & Court Records - Cumberland County NC.
- How do I request an officer to attend an event such as one hosted by a local school, church, community watch, civic organization or other community group?
Come to the Administrative Office (located at 300 Ruth Street) any time Monday through Friday between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm and a department representative will assist you in your request.
RECREATION & PARKS DEPARTMENT FAQs
- What are the hours of operation for the Recreation Office/Center hours?
Monday through Friday 7am until 9pm
Saturday 10am until 6pm
- What time can I register my child for a program or find out more information on programs or activities?
Any time during Multipurpose Community Center operating hours.
- Do I have to pay the registration fee at the time that I sign up?
Yes, for our programs payment is required at the time of registration.
- Where does the registration fee money go?
The money that you pay for registration of a program goes back into the Town’s General Revenue fund. Compared to all expenditures that are involved in a program the Town does not make any money.
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