Finance Department FAQ's

• 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 Department.
  
  
• Who determines the tax rate that I am charged?
  The Town of Spring Lake Board of Aldermen set the tax rate annually when it adopts 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.
  
  
• How do I acquire a business license from the Town of Spring Lake?
  An application for a business license can be obtained from the Finance Department, located in the Town Hall at 300 Ruth Street. You can also call and an application can be faxed to you or to download the application click here.
  
  
• 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 Finance Department.
  
  
• How do I acquire a pet license?
  Just bring a copy of your pet’s rabies vaccination to the Finance Department. The cost is $5.00 per spayed or neutered pet and $25.00 per pet that is not spayed or neutered.
  
  
• 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 Finance Department located in the 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.