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1. What function do bobcats serve in our cities?

Many ecological studies show that predatory wildlife, including bobcats, exists to preserve the balance of nature.  Wild animals help to keep rodent populations in check. In the past, some cities have attempted to eradicate predators, but as a result have seen an increase in rodent population, as well as rodent-borne diseases.  

The ways of nature can sometimes seem cruel to us, but many prey and rodent species would overrun both rural and urban areas, damaging crops and vegetation, if their natural predators did not keep them in check.  Bobcats and other predators also consume carrion (dead animals), and so provide us with free waste removal services.

2. What do bobcats eat?

Bobcats eat a variety of animal species, including mice, rats, squirrels, chickens, small fawns, wild birds, feral cats, cottontail and rabbits.  It’s very unlikely, but possible, that free-roaming cats or small dogs left outside unattended might be taken as well.    

Many people accidentally and unknowingly encourage bobcats and other wild animals to live near their homes by leaving pet food outside, failing to pick up fallen fruit from trees, leaving pets to roam outdoors unattended, leaving bird seed on the ground, and leaving wood piles or dense vegetation to provide hiding places for wildlife. Most urban wildlife is “opportunistic” and “omnivorous,” meaning the animals will eat about anything (animal or vegetable matter), and will take the food that is easiest to get. If pet food is left outside, or even in a garage with a pet door entrance, wild animals may find it easier to help themselves to pet food every night than to hunt down rodents.  

3. Why not trap and relocate bobcats to the country?

There are many reasons why trapping and removal is not a long-term, viable solution. Find more information about why it isn't the best solution on our Trapping and Removing Bobcats page.

4. Is it okay to put out food for wildlife?

No it is not. For more information about why it isn't ok visit our Putting Food Out for Wildlife page.

5. How can I discourage bobcats from coming into my yard?

Visit our How to Discourage Bobcats from Your Yard page for information on how to keep bobcats out of your yard.

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1. What are the outdoor warning sirens used for?

To alert the public of a severe weather threat. Threats generally include tornado and severe weather warnings, hail over 1.25 inches and straight-line winds 70 mph or higher. The primary function of the sirens is to notify people outside of an imminent weather threat. The criterion for utilization depends on the storm track. Depending on your proximity to a siren location, it may be heard indoors; however, the system is not intended for that specific purpose.

2. Where will I hear the outdoor warning siren?

Outdoor warning sirens are designed to be heard and alert people outdoors to go indoors and receive weather updates from local media. Outdoor sirens can be heard for approximately 1 mile in each direction. However, rain, wind and hail and other factors may affect your ability to hear the sirens.

3. What does it mean when I hear the outdoor warning siren and what should I do?

Your safety may be at risk from a life-threatening event in progress. Seek shelter indoors and tune to local media, news apps or a weather radio for more information. It is best to shelter in place.

4. Does hearing the outdoor warning siren mean I am in imminent danger?

Outdoor warning sirens are often sounded for citywide severe weather warnings and not storm-specific warnings. The safest approach is to be proactive and utilize all information outlets available to determine whether taking immediate shelter should be your next step.

5. Are the outdoor warning sirens sounded only for tornados?

No, the outdoor warning sirens are also used for other severe weather-related events that pose a direct risk to the lives of people who are outdoors.

6. How do I keep up-to-date with severe weather warnings (tornado, hail, wind, etc.)?

Outdoor warning sirens should not be the only way to keep up to date when a severe weather system approaches. The safest way to stay informed is to layer the information from numerous places and make an educated decision. You can use NOAA weather radios, local television and radio stations, news apps, and social media from local emergency management or county pages.

7. Why can’t I hear outdoor warning sirens in my house?

A widespread misconception is that you will be able to hear the outdoor warning sirens inside your home. They are designed, however, to alert those outdoors of a severe weather threat approaching. If you live near a siren, chances are you may hear it when indoors.

8. Who activates the outdoor warning siren?

Outdoor warning sirens are activated by public safety personnel for the City of The Colony.

9. When are the outdoor warning sirens tested?

Outdoor warning sirens are tested at noon on the first Wednesday each month, weather permitting.

10. Are the outdoor warning sirens the only alert necessary to be weather aware during severe storms?

No, the most efficient way to stay prepared and informed is to gather information from multiple outlets. Local television and radio stations will cover the ongoing storms, social media pages for emergency management or the county will post updates, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radios are also a great resource.

11. Where can I find more information?

The following links provide information regarding severe weather preparedness as well as updates during severe weather events:

• The City of the Colony Emergency Management Page
• The City of the Colony Facebook Page
• The City of the Colony Twitter Account
  
• National Weather Service - Fort Worth Office

12. I am new to the area and I don’t have a basement. Where do I take shelter?

The safest tornado shelter is on the lowest floor in a windowless room that is the most centralized in the house / apartment away from windows and doors. For example, the under-staircase closet or bathroom. It is always recommended to shelter in place.

13. How long is the outdoor warning siren activated?

The sirens are activated for a 3-minute rotation to alert those outdoors there are severe weather-related risks approaching.

14. Do the outdoor warning sirens sound an all-clear signal?

No, the sirens are only activated for the severe weather hazard. There is not an all-clear signal sounded afterwards.

15. Will the outdoor warning sirens sound if the power fails?

Yes, the outdoor warning sirens have backup batteries to ensure functionality during a power outage.

16. How do the outdoor warning sirens work?

The Emergency Management Team assesses the severe weather situation and activates the siren if there are hazards threatening the safety of people outside. Once the sirens are activated, they will sound for a 3-minute rotation. Once the outdoor warning sirens have been activated for the 3-minute rotation, they stop. If you hear sirens, you should move indoors and monitor the weather for updates on the situation.

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1. How can I find out if someone is in The Colony Municipal Jail?

You can call the jail directly at 972-624-3944/

2. Where is The Colony Jail?

The jail is located at:
5151 North Colony Boulevard
The Colony, TX 75056

The Jail Lobby is the glass structure at the far east end of the building. Contact the jail at 972-624-3944.

3. What does it mean when a person is "booked" into jail?

This is an administrative process documenting a prisoner's entrance into the jail. The process includes collecting information such as the person's name, address, reason for the arrest (charges), and inventorying personal property. A photograph and fingerprints are also typically taken at this time. For further information, contact us at 972-624-3944.

4. What occurs during an arraignment?

An arraignment is a formal meeting between a Judge and a prisoner. The Judge informs the prisoner of his or her charge(s), reads the prisoner his or her rights, and advises the prisoner of the bond amount. If the charges are The Colony Class C charges, the Judge may also take a plea on those charges. The Judge does not have jurisdiction in taking pleas for Non-The Colony charges or The Colony charges higher than a class C misdemeanor. For further questions, contact us at 972-624-3944.

5. When are prisoners arraigned?

Arraignments are generally held once daily with the time being at the Judge's discretion.

6. What is a "Class C" Warrant?

Class C refers to the level of misdemeanor offense. Class C is the lowest level of criminal violation. The jurisdiction remains with the local municipal court in most cities or with a Justice of the Peace in unincorporated areas and small towns. Examples of Class C offenses include most citable traffic offenses (speeding, running a stop sign...) and other minor violations like Theft under $100 in value. For further information, contact us at 972-624-3944.

7. What is "Jail Credit"?

The Colony assigns a monetary value for time spent in jail for Class C misdemeanor tickets or warrants. A municipal judge determines jail credit as regulated by state law. For further information, contact us at 972-624-3944.

8. Is jail credit applied to all arrests?

No, jail credit only applies to some Class C misdemeanors. For further information, contact us at 972-624-3944.

9. When may I visit a prisoner?

Visitation hours are held from 2  to 4 p.m. daily. Visitation is not guaranteed on a daily basis and is dependent on the workload of the jail staff. For further information, contact us at 972-624-3944.

10. What are the visitation requirements?

All persons, 17 and older, requesting a jail visit, are required to provide photo identification and are subject to search in order to maintain the security of the jail facility. Visitation is limited to a maximum of 20 minutes per visitor but may be less depending on the jail staff work load, current prisoner population, and the number of other visitors for the day. For further information, contact us at 972-624-3944.

11. What items may I bring a prisoner?

Food and personal items of convenience may not be contributed to the prisoner's property. Jail staff my accept prisoners' prescription medications, however it must be in the original prescription bottle with the person's name and dosage clearly labeled. Medication will be dispensed in the prescribed manner. For further information, contact us at 972-624-3944.

12. How may I get a prisoner's property?

Prisoner property can only be released after the prisoner grants written permission authorizing the release. To claim prisoner property it is necessary to present an official government photo identification. For further information, contact us at 972-624-3944.

13. May a prisoner make free phone calls?

A prisoner's first four phone calls are without charge. After the free calls, prisoner's can make additional calls for a fee.

14. What is an Alias warrant?

An alias warrant is a warrant where no plea has been entered. A prisoner, Bail bond company, or an Attorney can post a bond for this type of warrant. The bond assures that the prisoner will appear in court. For further information, contact us at 972-624-3944.

15. What is a Capias warrant?

A capias warrant is a warrant where a plea was entered prior to the issuance of the warrant and the defendant did not follow through with the court agreement. The only way to resolve a Capias warrant is to pay the fine in full or be released "time served" by remaining in jail until enough jail credit has been accumulated. For further information, contact us at 972-624-3944.

16. How can a prisoner get out of jail when arrested for a felony or misdemeanor (other than a Class C offense) after being arraigned by the Judge?

Once a bond has been set you may either post the bond here at The Colony in cash or contact a Denton County Bail Bonds Company. City employees are not allowed to recommend bail bond companies or attorneys. Prisoners on these offenses are transferred to the Denton County Sheriff's Office if unable to post bond. For further information, contact us at 972-624-3944.

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1. Where will Liberty By The Lake be located?

We hope you will join us at The Colony Five Star Complex, 4100 Blair Oaks for the same great family fun you have come to expect at Liberty By The Lake! 

 

2. Is there a fee to attend the Liberty By The Lake festival?

No!  Liberty By The Lake is a free event. There are some activities, such as the Festive Food Vendors, that have a fee.  Also, on site parking is FREE this year!!

3. Is there a parking fee?

No. On site parking will be FREE this year! 

Parking is located at The Colony Five Star Complex and The Colony High School.

4. Are dogs allowed?

No! We ask that you please leave your pets at home.

5. Are dogs and / or baby strollers allowed in the Liberty 5K, 10K & 1 Mile Fun Run?

Baby strollers are allowed for the 1 Mile and 5K only.  We ask that any baby strollers start the race at the back so as to not create any trip hazards for other participants when the race begins. Dogs are not allowed on the race course per USATF rules and regulations.

6. Can we bring a cooler to the event?

No! We encourage you to stop by our food vendor booths to get the full Liberty By The Lake experience. No grills allowed.

7. Is the event site ADA accessible?

There are several paved areas of the festival, however the majority of the festival grounds are located on grass surfaces. Handicap parking is available for those with proper markings and/or tags.

8. Are we allowed to bring lawn chairs or a blanket or shade canopy?

Yes, but please be respectful of others. Chairs should be low to the ground and have backs at shoulder height. Keep in mind that unless otherwise noted, this is “festival viewing” with no reserved seating and patrons may be standing in front of you during a performance.  We want everyone to enjoy the concerts and have a great time. Be respectful of people around you and please share your space, get to know your neighbors and make room for others!

9. How can I volunteer to help at Liberty By The Lake?

Please visit the Volunteers page on this site for more information.

10. If a parent loses a child, where should they go?

The found children's area is at the City of The Colony Police Command Unit located near the festival entrance. We encourage your family to identify this spot (or another festival location) as a good place to meet in case anyone becomes separated.

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1. What is Interlibrary Loan Service (ILL)?

Through participation in an Interlibrary Loan network including academic, public and special libraries, the Library may borrow materials for you from other libraries throughout the country. Materials obtained through Interlibrary Loan are for individual use and are the cardholder's responsibility from the time they are picked up at the Circulation Desk until they are returned. The cardholder is responsible for any late fees, replacement costs for lost materials, and costs for damages.

2. What can be borrowed?

The Library will request only materials which are not available at The Colony Public Library. All formats may be requested (e.g.,  books, audiovisual materials, periodicals, microfilm, photocopies, etc.). The Library will not request best sellers or recently published items. Please read the warning concerning copyright restrictions.

3. How do library patrons submit an Interlibrary Loan (ILL) request?

ILL requests may be submitted using the InterLibrary Loan Request form. Requests are also taken in person during regular business hours at the Reference Desk . In either case, librarian staff will need as much information as possible about the item to be requested, along with the cardholder's name, phone number, and library card number.

4. Is there a charge for this service?

The only charge to the cardholder for borrowing materials from other libraries is the postage charge for the return of the material to the loaning library. This fee must be paid before the material will be checked out to the cardholder.

If the material is not picked up by the cardholder before the date that the material must be returned to the loaning library, the postage fee will be charged to the cardholder's account. The charge must be paid before any materials are checked out on the card and before any further interlibrary loan requests will be placed for the cardholder.

5. How long does it take to get the requested material?

Service will be provided as quickly as possible. The turnaround time varies depending upon the lending library. Items requested withing the state of Texas generally take two to three weeks to arrive. Items requested outside the state of Texas generally take three to six weeks to arrive. Patrons will be notified by phone if the Library is unable to obtain an item.

6. How will I know when the material has arrived?

When material arrives at The Colony Public Library, the Reference Desk staff will call the requesting cardholder.

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1. Who can receive Outreach Services?

Outreach Services are provided to participants in senior activities at The Colony Community Center.

2. When and where will materials be delivered?

Materials will be delivered by appointment to the participants at The Colony Community Center.

3. How do I request a title?

You may request resources by calling or emailing the Outreach Services librarian.

4. Will the most current titles be available?

Titles under heavy demand will not be available through Outreach Services.

5. What materials are available?

Outreach materials available are as follows:

• Audio books
• Fiction
• Large Print books
• Magazines
• Music on CD
• Nonfiction
• Paperbacks
• Videos / DVDs

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1. How do I set a court date?

Court dates are not set over the phone. You must appear in person or mail in a written request on or before the due date to get a court setting. If you mail in a request it is your responsibility to check  with the court clerk if you do not receive a court date by mail within 10 days.

2. What is the fine amount for my particular citation?

Information on your fine and court cost can be obtained by calling the  Municipal Court at 972-624-2200, during regular working hours. Have your citation number handy when calling.

3. Can I get an extension to pay my fine by phone?

No. Extensions cannot be granted over the phone. You must come into the court to request more time to pay a fine. Extensions for Driving Safety Course fees cannot be granted. You must appear by your appearance date to request Driving Safety and pay the fee required or you will lose that right.

4. What will happen if I fail to pay my fine or appear as required?

If you do not appear or pay your fine a courtesy letter will be mailed out giving you 10 days to contact the court. Failure to respond by that date may result in a charge of Failure to Appear ($210 fine) being filed against you and warrants for your arrest may be issued with additional fees.

5. What will happen if a warrant is issued?

The warrants will be delivered to The Colony Police Department. These warrants are entered into a statewide computer system, are valid throughout the state, and are accessible to any peace officer. If you have received notice that your citation is in warrant status, you will need to dispose of this matter immediately to avoid the possibility of arrest. Warrant officers are assigned to actively pursue individuals in warrant status and you may be arrested at your place of employment or your home at any time. You may contact The Colony Warrant Division at 972-624-2200, or contact The Colony Municipal Court during normal business hours Monday - Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 972-624-2200. Please note that The Colony Municipal Court is closed from 12Noon to 1 p.m. for lunch.

The most common options available to you for disposing of your warrant(s) are to come to the Municipal Court and pay fines in full by cash or your credit card. Payment arrangements may also be available to you. You may post a surety or cash escrow bond and request to see the Judge (unless your warrant is a capias pro fine and you have previously plead or appeared before the Judge and was found guilty, you must then pay the fine amount in full, set up payment arrangements or lay the fine out in jail). You could retain an attorney or seek the services of a bonding company.

6. I received a citation for expired registration, but I had the renewal documents in my glove box. Can I get this charge dismissed?

No, the law states that you are in violation if the current registration sticker is not affixed to the front windshield of your vehicle. You will need to either pay the set fine ($165) or set a court date to see the Judge.

7. I received a citation for an expired registration. If I get my vehicle registered, pay the penalty fee and bring the proof in to the court, can this charge be dismissed?

Only if your vehicle registration was expired 60 days or less, and you get it registered within 20 working days from the date of violation or before your first court appearance date, whichever is later. You must then bring in your proof of the registration to the court clerk's office. The court can dismiss that violation with a $20 dismissal fee. If your registration was expired more than 60 days, you must either pay the set fine/court costs ($165), or set a court date to appear before the Judge.

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1. What is Geocaching?

Geocaching is an entertaining adventure game for GPS users. Participating in a cache hunt is a good way to take advantage of the wonderful features and capability of a GPS unit. The basic idea is to have individuals and organizations set up caches all over the world and share the locations of these caches on the internet. GPS users can then use the location coordinates to find the caches. Once found, a cache may provide the visitor with a wide variety of rewards. All the visitor is asked to do is if they get something they should try to leave something for the cache.

2. What is a GPS device?

A GPS unit is a electronic device that can determine your approximate location (within around 6-20 feet) on the planet. Coordinates are normally given in Latitude and Longitude. You can use the unit to navigate from your current location to another location. Some units have their own maps, built-in electronic compasses, and voice navigation, depending on the complexity of the device.

You don't need to know all the technical mumbo-jumbo about GPS units to play Geocaching. All you need to do is be able to enter what is called a "waypoint" where the geocache is hidden.

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1. What are parking violation in The Colony?

 For further questions, contact us at 972-625-1887.

• Commercial vehicles are prohibited from parking on city streets
• Boats, trailers, and recreation vehicles are prohibited from parking on city streets
• You may not repair any vehicle parked on a city street unless it is an emergency
• You may not park within 10 feet of a mailbox Monday through Saturday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• You may not park within 15 feet of a fire hydrant, 20 feet of a crosswalk, or 30 feet of a stop or yield sign.
• All right side wheels of a vehicle must be within 18 inches of the curb and may not be facing traffic (state law)
• You may not park in your front yard
• You may not park an abandoned motor vehicle on a city street or public property for more than 48 hours. An abandoned motor vehicle is a vehicle that is 5 years old or older and is inoperable parked on public property or, any vehicle that is illegally on public property for more than 48 hours or, on private property for more than 48 hours without the consent of the property owner or, a vehicle left unattended on a highway for more than 48 hours.
• You may sell one vehicle at a time if parked legally in front of a person's home. You may not sell a vehicle at a shopping center or on the side of the road.
• You may not park on the sidewalk. This means that if you have a front entry driveway you will need to position your vehicle(s) so that the sidewalk is not blocked.

2. What are the animal control regulations?

For further questions, contact us at 972-625-1887.

• Animals may not run at-large
• Any animal must be on a leash or in a carrier while in a public place
• Owners must prevent their animals from creating a disturbance for their neighbors by preventing barking, howling, or crowing
• Owners are responsible for the removal of any excrement deposited by their animal
• You may not tie or tether an animal to a stationary object for a period of time or in a location for more than 12 consecutive hours in a 24-hour period, or so as to create an unhealthy situation for the animal or a potentially dangerous situation for a pedestrian or passerby

3. What other violations exist in The Colony?

For further questions, contact us at 972- 625-1887.

• The City of The Colony has a curfew for all persons under the age of 17. Sunday through Thursday, all persons under the age of 17 must be home by 11 p.m. They must remain home until 6 a.m. On Friday and Saturday nights, the time is extended by one hour. This means that all persons under the age of 17 must be home by midnight. There are exceptions to this ordinance. The exceptions can be found in Section 13 -33 of the Ordinance Manual.
• No one can have heaps of rubbish or trash on his or her property
• You cannot burn trash
• You may not have a scanner tuned to police or fire channels in your vehicle or on or about your person without a permit from the respective department.
• Grass and weeds must be no longer than 12 inches
• You may not possess fireworks
• You should not create any unreasonable noise for neighbors especially between the hours of 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.
• If you plan on having a garage sale, you are allowed to place no more than 2 signs, which must be on private property, 10 inches away from the curb. No signs are allowed on public property, telephone poles, or city easements.
• Children under 18 years of age may not possess dangerous weapons. Dangerous weapons, include firearms, illegal knives, clubs, air-guns (BB and pellet), bow and arrows, and slingshots.
• You may not discharge any gun, pistol, rifle, firearm, BB gun, or air gun inside the city limits
• You must have any graffiti removed from private property within 15 days
• You may not use your cell phone or other communication devices while driving through school zones that are in effect. Hands-free devices are allowed.

4. What do I do in a traffic accident?

The law requires police agencies to investigate traffic accidents that result in injury or damage to property in excess of one thousand dollars. For most vehicles on the road today, you would be surprised at the relative small amount of visible damage one thousand dollars entails. The following are a few tips to follow if you are involved in a traffic accident. For further questions, contact us at  For further questions, contact us at 972-625-1887.

• On busy roads with relative minor damage, and no injuries, move the vehicles out of the lane of traffic. Passing motorists may not be watching the road and the potential for a secondary collision is high.
• Notify police immediately. With the large number of cellular telephones on the road, the accident will most likely have already been reported. Be sure to ask someone to call the police for you just to be sure. Be sure of your actions taken if you decide to work the accident out between you and the other driver without the police. Once you have both left the accident scene, the ability to investigate the accident including identification of contributing factors is minimized.
• Responding police and fire personnel will first and foremost provide necessary aide to any injured persons. Additional police personnel will control traffic movement to prevent any secondary or subsequent collisions.
• A The Colony Police officer who responds to the accident will interview all parties involved, including witnesses, to begin the initial investigation. An inspection of any signals will also be done to eliminate the possibility of a malfunction as a cause.
• The officer investigating the accident will give the drivers involved an Accident Information Sheet to provide immediate access to information most needed by insurance carriers to file a claim.
• The officer will remain on the scene until a tow truck arrives, and accommodations have been made for both you and your vehicle.

Don't be dissuaded in filing an accident report trying to keep it off of your driver's license history. Even if the accident is not your fault, your driver's license history will show an "accident." However, it is better to explain the circumstances surrounding the accident to your insurance carrier, than to have false information given by the other driver who has now vanished leaving you with no recourse available.

5. Will the Police help if I've locked my keys in my car?

The police department provided the service several years ago to help citizens who locked their keys in their cars. However, with the complex electric door locking systems on most cars today and new devices installed to prevent auto theft, this is now a job best left to a trained locksmith to avoid damage to vehicle door locking systems. However, there is an exception, when a child or person is locked inside a vehicle, we will dispatch a patrol officer along with an ambulance to try to get the person out of the vehicle as quickly as possible. During temperature extremes, it does not take very long for serious medical conditions to develop if the person is not removed from the vehicle in a timely manner. For more information, contact us at 97February 625, 1887.

6. What do I do if I think I have a house intruder?

One of the scariest things is to believe there is someone in your home. Should you come home to an open home, do not enter the house! You should go to a neighbor's home, or if a cellular phone is available, get in your car and leave to a safe area. Call the police dispatcher on 911 and report your home is unsecured. The dispatcher will send officers to your home to be sure there is no one inside. You may see the officers draw their weapons before entering, this a normal practice when checking or "clearing" a house or building. Once there has been a determination there is no one in the home, you may accompany the officers inside to see if anything has been taken or disturbed.

7. What do I do about identity theft?

Contact your local police department as soon as possible to generate a police report. Even if the Identity Theft has taken place in another city or state, you will need to show proof you have made contact with a police agency. For more answers to this rising crime, go to the Consumer Identity Theft website or ID Theft Center website. For more information, contact us at 97February 625, 1887.

8. When do I call 911?

We should determine first the definition of an emergency. Anything that compromises the safety of an individual or a crime in progress is a good general rule to use the 911 system. These include traffic accidents where people are hurt, assaults, fights, fires, and medical emergency calls. Our communications personnel dispatch for both police, fire, and EMS We understand that in times of difficulty, 911 is the easiest number to remember. 

But it should be used only in true emergencies. You may no doubt talk to the same person on the other end of the telephone, but the 911 system can become overloaded if non-emergency calls are placed into the system. For non-emergency calls such as barking dogs, vehicle complaints or to report criminal offenses that have already occurred, or similar calls "not in progress," we would prefer that you use 972-625-1887 our non-emergency dispatch center number.

9. What are the jail visiting hours?

Visitors to the jail should enter through the jail lobby at the far east end of the Police building. Visiting hours are held from 2  to 4 p.m. daily. All persons requesting a jail visit are required to provide photo identification and are subject to search in order to maintain the security of the jail. Visitation is limited to a maximum of 20 minutes per visitor but may be less depending on the jail staff work load, current prisoner population, and number of other visitors for the day. For more information, contact us at 972-625-1887.

10. What are the regulations on scooters?

To be legally operated on a public street or highway, a motor vehicle must have a certificate of title and be properly registered with the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT). In general, TXDOT does not authorize the issuance of certificates of title for mini motorcycles. Therefore, the mini motorcycles are not eligible for registration. The main reason is that the majority of mini motorcycles lack a manufacturer's certificate of origin or equivalent document which is required for titling. Also the vehicles do not meet the equipment standards required by federal and Texas law. In addition, only DPS-approved moped models may be registered in Texas. Currently, no mini motorcycle model is on the list of approved mopeds.

Some buyers have been told that mini motorcycles can be legally operated on low speed streets because they qualify as "motor assisted scooters" under Section 551.301, Transportation Code. However, under Section 551.301, a "motor assisted scooter" must have a "deck" on which the operator can stand and an engine not exceeding 40 cc. Mini motorcycles not only lack a deck for standing, but most models have an engine displacement exceeding the 40 cc limit.

Because mini motorcycles cannot currently be titled and registered, they cannot be legally operated on public streets and highways. Moreover, because mini motorcycles are "motor vehicles" they cannot be ridden on sidewalks. And please, wear a safety helmet. For more information go to Texas Department of Public Safety or you can contact us at 972-625-1887.

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1. If I have a complaint, who do I talk to? ... and will you really listen?

Certainly! The purpose of any Professional Standards Division is the diligent pursuit of truth. We are committed to that objective, recognizing that our agency's credibility depends upon the community's belief that we can police ourselves. Therefore, you should first contact the Professional Standards Sergeant Aaron Woodard with The Colony Police Department. You will be asked to set up an appointment with them so that the complaint can be discussed. If you wish, you may then file your complaint.

2. But, I want to take this all the way to the top. Will the Chief of Police to know?

Yes, he will. The Chief of Police reviews all complaints against police employees. For further information, contact us at 972-624-3944.

3. Do I have to initially complain in person?

We prefer to talk to you in person, but we will accept a complaint by telephone or letter if necessary. It won't make any difference in the attention we give it. For further information, contact us at 972-624-3944.

4. Is there a time limit for making a complaint?

All complaints should be filed in a timely manner with the Professional Standards Division. Complaints filed more than 30 days after an occurrence decreases the likelihood a complaint will be sustained. Complaints related to traffic stops that do not involve a criminal allegation must be filed within 60 days of the occurrence to be investigated. For further information, contact us at 972-624-3944.

5. Do I have to put my complaint in writing?

The Texas Government Code requires that all complaints against police officers be in writing and signed by the person making the complaint. Just as citizens who are arrested must be notified of the charges against them, the police officer must be provided a copy of a complaint. We have found it's much easier to investigate a written complaint, so we prefer them that way. If there are valid reasons this cannot be done, we'll make other arrangements. For further information, contact us at 972-624-3944.

6. Can I get in trouble for making a complaint?

Not if what you're telling us is the truth. We wouldn't (and couldn't) bring charges against a person who has acted in good faith. However, citizens should be aware that making a false complaint is a violation of the Texas Penal Code. A person convicted could be punished by a fine and confinement in jail.

7. What are the possible outcomes of the investigation?

Internal investigations will produce one of four findings:

1. Unfounded - Allegation against officer was false or without merit
2. Exonerated - Conduct complained upon did occur but was legal and proper
3. Sustained - Allegation is supported by sufficient evidence
4. Not Sustained - Insufficient evidence to either prove or disprove allegation
   

For further information, contact us at 972-624-3944.

8. What happens if my complaint is sustained?

That will depend on the allegation. When the investigation of a complaint reveals the charges are true and should be sustained against the police employee, the department may take one or more of the following actions depending on the nature of the violation:

• Additional Training
• Performance Counseling
• Suspension or Termination
• Written Reprimand
• Oral Reprimand

For more information, contact us at 972-625-1887.

9. What happens if my complaint is not substantiated?

If there is not sufficient evidence to support the allegation, the investigation is closed and no further action taken. For more information, contact us at 972-625-1887.

10. Will I be told the results of the complaint?

Yes. As the complainant, you will be notified by mail of the results of the investigation. For more information, contact us at 972-625-1887.

11. Will I have to take a polygraph?

In certain cases, you (as the complainant) may be requested to submit to a polygraph examination. The employees involved may also be asked to submit to the polygraph. For more information, contact us at 972-625-1887.

12. What if I'm not satisfied with the decision?

We sincerely hope that would never happen. If it did, you may appeal the decision to either the Chief of Police or the City Manager. The Colony Police Department is vitally interested in the welfare of all citizens and in taking action where its employees have proven derelict in their duties or are guilty of wrongdoing. If it becomes necessary for you to make a complaint, you can be assured that it will be given a fair and thorough investigation.

Now, by the same token, if you have occasion to see a police employee doing outstanding work, tell him or us about it. The Colony Police Department is comprised of professional employees dedicated to serving you. For more information, contact us at 972-625-1887.

Show All Answers

1. Is there a fee to attend the American Heroes festival?

No! American Heroes is a free event. VIP Tickets are available - $40 for 1 day or $70 for both days. PlayTC.ticketleap.com

There will be food and drinks for sale at the event as well. For more information contact us at 972-625-1106.

2. Is there a parking fee?

No! Parking is absolutely free.

3. Are dogs allowed?

No. We ask that you keep your four legged friends at home please. For more information contact us at 972-625-1106.

4. Can we bring a cooler to the event?

No! Coolers are not permitted. Food, drinks, and alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase within the festival grounds. For more information contact us at 972-625-1106.

5. Are there ATMs on site?

TBD. For more information contact us at 972-625-1106.

6. Is the event site ADA accessible?

Some portions of the event area are on concrete and will be ADA accessible. Other areas are on grass and will not be. For more information contact us at 972-625-1106.

7. What is there to do besides watching the bands?

There will be Kids Craft stations, Carnival, Silent Auction, Community Stage, Sponsor Expo, Food and Drink Booths, and of course the best Fireworks display in North Texas! For more information contact us at 972-625-1106.

8. What should we wear?

This is an outdoor event in Texas during November. Weather changes rapidly, so be prepared and plan accordingly. Wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat during the day, don’t forget the sunscreen, and be sure to bring a jacket or sweater for when the sun goes down so you don’t miss any of the awesome fireworks! For more information contact us at 972-625-1106.

9. Are we allowed to bring lawn chairs or a blanket?

Yes, but please be respectful of others. Chairs should be low to the ground and have backs at shoulder height. We want everyone to enjoy the concerts and have a great time. Be respectful of people around you. For more information contact us at 972-625-1106.

10. How can I volunteer to help at American Heroes?

Please visit the Volunteer page on this site for more information.

11. If a parent loses a child, where should they go?

The found children's area is at the City of The Colony Police Command Unit. We encourage your family to identify this spot (or another festival location) as a good place to meet in case anyone becomes separated. They can be reached at  972-665-1887.