Borough of State College Government

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Administration

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1. What are the Borough's hours of operation?: State College Borough's regular hours of operation are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

2. How do I register to vote?: Information about voter registration and elections can be found at the Centre County Office of Elections and Voter Registration Website. Information on voting in Pennsylvania can also be found at VotesPA.com.
Office of Elections & Voter Registration

3. How do I get the Council meeting agendas?: You can subscribe to a list to be notified when the agenda becomes available on the Borough's website. Council usually meets the first and third Monday evenings at 7 p.m. in a regular meeting and the second Monday evening at 7 p.m. in a work session. To see when Council is meeting, visit the Borough's Calendar. Agendas are usually posted on Friday for Monday meetings. To see a list of current agenda items, click here.
Sign Up to Receive Notifications...

4. How do I get the Council meeting minutes?: You can subscribe to a list to be notified when minutes are available on the Borough website.
Sign Up to Receive Notifications...

5. Where is the Municipal Building located?: The State College Municipal Building is located at 243 South Allen Street, State College, PA 16801.

6. Where is the Maintenance Facility Located?: The State College Maintenance Facility is located at 330 South Osmond Street, State College, PA 16801

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Affordable Housing

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1. Why should I buy instead of rent?: A home is an investment. When you rent, you write your monthly check and that money is gone forever. But when you own your home, you can deduct the cost of your mortgage loan interest from your federal income taxes, and usually from your state taxes. This will save you a lot each year, because the interest you pay will make up most of your monthly payment for most of the years of your mortgage. You can also deduct the property taxes you pay as a homeowner. In addition, the value of your home may go up over the years. Finally, you'll enjoy having something that's all yours - a home where your own personal style will tell the world who you are.

2. What type of homebuyer assistance is available?

Low-income first-time homebuyers may receive mortgage and down payment assistance in the form of a zero interest deferred payment forgiveness loan. Funds are also available to assist with necessary rehabilitation. This program requires individuals to attend pre- and post-purchase budget counseling and also a homebuyer education class.

Middle-income first-time homebuyers may receive mortgage and down payment assistance in the form of a deferred payment loan that must be fully repaid upon future sale or transfer of the property or when the property is no longer the owner’s primary residence. Additional funds may be available for necessary repairs. This program also requires individuals to attend pre- and post-purchase budget counseling and a homebuyer education class.

First-Time Homebuyer Program

3. Where can I find a home to purchase that I can afford on my income?

The State College Community Land Trust purchases homes, makes necessary repairs then sells them to income qualified and mortgage ready home buyers. The buyer purchases the house but not the land underneath. The land underneath is owned by the Land Trust and is leased to the homeowner, so the purchase of the house is affordable. If the homeowner sells the house, they must sell it to another income qualified household; this will preserve affordable homes for future generations.

The Temporary Housing Foundation, Inc. purchases homes, makes necessary repairs and sells them to income qualified and mortgage ready home buyers. The homes are sold to the buyer at the same purchase price that Temporary Housing Foundation paid before the repairs. Gap financing subsidy and closing cost assistance may be available. The buyer must provide 3% of their own funds for down payment. This means families can purchase more of a house with a lower monthly payment, therefore making it affordable.

Home Ownership Programs

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Animal Control

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1. What should I do if I have a lost/found pet?

If you have lost a pet in the Borough of State College or the Township of College you can call the Division of Health and Neighborhood Services at (814) 234-7191 or the State College Police non-emergency number at (814) 234-7150. Other places you might try include:

State College Veterinary Hospital at (814) 238-8181,
Pets Come First at (814) 364-1725 or
Centre County Paws at (814) 237-8722.

Centre County Paws also offers additional tips on where to post flyers, how to place a lost/found newspaper ad, radio announcement or online advertisement and provides the phone numbers for other local municipalities.

2. Where can I get a dog license?: Dogs over three months of age are required to be licensed by January 1 of each year. Applications for licenses are available at the State College Finance Department until October of each year and at the Centre County Treasurer's Office.
Centre County Treasurer's Office

3. What are the fees for a dog license?: The annual license fees are $6.45 for spayed or neutered dogs and $8.45 for all other dogs. Senior citizens are charged a discounted rate of $4.45 for spayed or neutered dogs and $6.45 for all other dogs. Lifetime licenses are available from the Centre County Treasurer's Office located in Bellefonte.

4. Who can I contact about dog licensing?: If you have any questions, please call the Centre County Treasurer's Office at (814) 355-6810 or the State College Division of Health and Neighborhood Services at (814) 234-7191.

5. Is assistance offered to get an animal spayed/neutered?: Centre County Paws offers the Spay/Neuter Assistance Program (SNAP) to help low-income families. Clinic dates are announced on their website and Facebook fan page. Please call (814) 237-8722 and dial 5 to register. Pets Come First may also hold spay/neuter clinics throughout the year if funding is available.

6. Where can I get my pet vaccinated for rabies?: Vaccination for rabies is required by state law every three years. You can get your pet vaccinated at a local veterinarian office or a rabies clinic.

7. What should I do if I am bitten by a dog, cat or other animal?: Try to get the date of the animal’s rabies vaccination. Contact your family physician or seek other medical attention immediately. Also, contact the Borough of State College Division of Health and Neighborhood Services at (814) 234-7191, so that others can be notified if a loose animal has tested positive for a communicable disease.

8. Who should I contact if there is a wild animal in my yard, house or other place in town?: If you need help with a wild animal contact the PA Game Commission at (814) 237-1857 or Centre Wildlife Care at (814) 692-0004.

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Authorities, Boards & Commissions (ABCs)

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1. What is an ABC?: ABC's are Authorities, Boards, Commissions and Committees appointed by the municipality's elected officials. Council receives advice from more than 100 appointed residents who serve on various Authorities, Boards, Commissions and Committees. Members of ABC's serve without compensation. Most are advisory to State College Borough Council, but certain authorities are lease-operating boards or authorities rather than lease-back or advisory boards or authorities. Some other boards have similar legal standing.

2. What are the different ABCs?

State College ABCs include the following:

Authorities Board,
Borough Water Authority,
Board of Health,
Design & Historic Review Board,
Real Estate Advisory Committee,
Regional Tax Appeals Board,
Rental Housing Revocation Appeal Board,
Zoning Hearing Board,
Civil Service Commission,
Planning Commission,
Transportation Commission,
Tree Commission,
Community Development Block Grant Citizens’ Advisory Committee,
Human Relations Commission, and
Redevelopment Authority.

Regional Government ABCs include the following:

Centre Area Transportation Authority,
Centre Region Parks and Recreation Authority,
Schlow Centre Region Library Board,
Centre Region Building & Housing Code Board of Appeals, and
Centre Regional Planning Commission.

Council also appoints members to the Centre County Airport Authority, Centre County Community Foundation, Centre County Recycling & Refuse Authority, Centre Network, State College Community Land Trust and University Area Joint Authority.

3. Where can I find agendas and minutes for ABC meetings?: Agendas for the various Authorities, Boards and Commissions (ABC's) are available a few days prior to each meeting. Minutes are available once they have been approved by the ABC.
View Agendas and Minutes

4. Who can join an ABC?: State College Borough extends the invitation to volunteer to all State College Borough residents. Some regional ABC's are also open to residents who live outside the municipal boundaries. Special accommodations will be made upon request and whenever possible to assist individuals with a disability. The decision to appoint ABC members ultimately lies with Borough Council.

5. How do I apply to be on an ABC?: If you are interested in serving on one of our ABC’s please complete the Application for Membership on an Advisory Board form and deliver/mail it to State College Borough, Human Resources Department, 243 South Allen Street, State College, PA 16801 or submit by email. Your application will be kept on file and submitted to Council for consideration when positions become available.
Application for Membership on an Advisory Board

6. When are ABC members typically appointed by Council?: Recruitment for ABC members typically begins in early fall. ABC appointments are generally made at the end of the calendar year. The number of positions available varies year to year. Additional appointments may also be made throughout the year due to varying circumstances.
Current Vacancies

7. How long would I serve?: Terms for ABC appointments vary by ABC. See the ABC website for more information.
Authorities, Boards, Commissions & Committees

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Budget FAQ

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1. What is a mill?: A mill is a Real Estate tax rate. The rate is expressed as a rate per thousand, which is why it’s called “mill.” In order to calculate the Real Estate taxes for a property in the State College Borough, you use the following formula: ((Assessed Value – Homestead Exclusion)/1,000) x Millage Rate. By way of example, let us say your home has an assessed value of $250,000. Your Real Estate taxes for 2015 would be calculated as follows: ((250,000 - 25,000) /1,000) x 14.4 = $3,240. The Assessed Value is 50% of the 1995 market value. When a home is sold, or built, the County Assessment Office uses a formula to calculate the 1995 Market Value to determine the Assessed Value. The Taxable Assessed Value of all properties in the Borough for the 2015 Real Estate Taxes was $454,604,117, so one mill of tax rate represents $454,604 in Real Estate Tax revenue for the Borough.

2. Why can’t the Borough borrow money from the Parking Fund for the General Fund?: It is generally expected that municipalities that run “business-like” activities can only charge users of those services the cost of providing that service. That means that the Borough can only charge customers of the Refuse Service the cost of operating that service. The Borough can’t “make money” on that service and use the “profit” to subsidize other services. The Borough can generate excess revenue and use that excess to fund capital improvements or assets used in providing that service. If the Borough regularly over-charged users of services, like Refuse Services, and used that money to subsidize other services, the users of the Refuse Service would have a basis to challenge the service rates. Citizens have filed law suits against municipalities that regularly produce excess revenue over expenses in enterprise funds and use those funds to support General Government operations.

3. Why is the budgetary problem with revenue and not expenditures?: Just like at home, expenses generally rise at the rate of inflation. In any given year, if the cost of groceries, fuel and other home expenses increase with inflation, and you don’t receive a raise in pay, you would experience what the Borough has been experiencing over the last ten years. Expenses have been rising at the rate of inflation and at an even greater rate in the case of health care and pension costs, while revenue has not been increasing at a comparable rate. The main sources of revenue for the General Fund consist of taxes. The main two taxes are Real Estate and Earned Income Tax (EIT). Real Estate taxes are based on the Taxable Assessed Value of properties in the Borough. The only time the Assessed Value of properties increase is when there is new development or a county-wide reassessment. The last reassessment was in 1995 and the supply of developable land in the Borough is minimal. Because the Assessed Value has not increased, the tax revenue only increases when the millage rate is increased. We call this a lack of “natural revenue growth.” Similarly, EIT taxes are based on the earned income of residents of the Borough. We are experiencing a trend of higher wage earners migrating to the townships surrounding the Borough, so the Earned Income of residents in the Borough has also not been increasing. This contributes to the lack of “natural growth” in the Borough’s revenue.

4. Is the Borough running out of money?: The answer is both yes and no. The Borough’s bank account is not approaching zero. Borough Council has adopted a policy of keeping a reserve of 12% of annual expenses for the General Fund. That reserve is in place to provide for fluctuations in cash flow and to provide an emergency fund if the Borough experiences some unexpected emergency. For several years, the Borough has been able to maintain a reserve that was greater than the 12%. During the last three years, the Borough has used some of that excess reserve to balance the budget. The Manager’s budget proposal for 2016 is balanced with current expenses being paid with current revenues. Just like at home, you can only go for a short period of time where you’re spending more money than you’re taking in. If the Borough performs at budgeted levels for 2015, its reserve will reach the 12% minimum.

5. What is the difference between what Penn State University would pay in real estate taxes versus what is received in impact fees?: Centre County estimates the assessed value of tax-exempt property. Based on the best information available, the total Assessed Value for Penn State property in the Borough was $262.9 million in 2015. If the property were taxable, the resulting 2015 real estate tax payment to the Borough would be approximately $3.8 million.

6. How often does the Borough replace computer equipment and vehicles?

The Borough does maintain a Capitalization and Depreciation policy, which is published in the "Policies and Processes" section of the 2015 Budget beginning on page B-12, should you be interested in more detailed information. The policy offers guidance to management in complying with financial reporting requirements and for planning for the logical replacement of capital assets.

In general, three factors are used to determine the method and timing of replacement: cost, useful life and salvage value. There are, however, some assets (e.g. computers) that have a negligible salvage value at their useful life, so useful life is the only deciding factor for replacement. Computers and Equipment are replaced according to their estimated useful life of 3-7 years. Vehicles, on the other hand, are replaced according to their estimated useful life of 3-12 years, provided that the vehicle under consideration also meets the Borough's minimum mileage/hours use requirement.

For example, Frontline Police Interceptors are replaced after three years and 120,000 miles of use. Dump trucks used in Public Works operations are replaced after 12 years and 65,000 miles of use. The minimum mileage/hours usage is the point at which, on average, a vehicle is reasonably depreciated, but not yet incurring significant maintenance costs. Vehicles that meet both the age and mileage thresholds are sold to the highest bidder and the funds are used to offset the cost of the replacement vehicle.

7. Why don’t the local municipalities consolidate?: Pennsylvania law requires that voters approve the consolidation of municipalities. A majority of all voters in each municipality, which are on the ballot for consolidation, must vote to approve the consolidation. While there have been a few consolidations in Pennsylvania, this majority vote requirement creates a high threshold for consolidation to occur. On two previous occasions over the past 30 years, a ballot question for approval of consolidation in the Centre Region has been rejected by voters.

8. Does the County or School District provide any financial contributions to the Centre Region Council of Governments (COG)?: The County does provide a contribution to COG. The School District does not; however, COG has received some favorable terms on land and lease arrangements through the Centre Region Parks and Recreation Authority entity.

9. Has there been any movement of Penn State University to the south of College Avenue and do these properties pay Real Estate Taxes?: Penn State has purchased property south of College Avenue in the past. Whether or not the properties pay taxes is dependent on how the property is used. Penn State makes a Payment in Lieu of Taxes for any property that is used for non-university purposes. Over the past year, the only property that has transferred to Penn State is the College Heights Elementary School. The College Heights school was tax exempt before the transfer and it will continue to be tax exempt.

10. Is there a forecast for Earned Income and Net Profits Tax related to new development within the Borough?: The Earned Income Tax not only applies to earned income, it also applies to net profits for sole proprietorships and partnerships. New developments within the Borough that increase the number of working residents will certainly have an impact on the Earned Income and Net Profits Tax collected. Retirements and changes in the population mix also impact the amount of tax collected each year. There is not enough scientific data that would allow the Borough to accurately predict the impact of residential development on the Earned Income and Net Profits Tax.

11. When was the Business Privilege Tax (BPT) eliminated?: As recommended by the Ad Hoc Tax Study Committee, the Business Privilege Tax (BPT) was repealed as an action of Council in 2005. The BPT repeal was combined with an increase in Real Estate taxes and the implementation of the Homestead Exclusion for owner occupied property. The changes took effect in 2006. At the same time the Homestead Exclusion was enacted, the Commonwealth also replaced the Occupation Privilege Tax with the Emergency Municipal Services Tax (which later became the Local Services Tax). The EMST/LST provided revenue to cover the cost of the Homestead Exclusion for homeowners. (Ad Hoc Tax Study Report: www.statecollegepa.us/DocumentView.aspx?DID=385; What is taxable as EIT: www.statecollegepa.us/DocumentCenter/View/11342)

12. How can the Borough tax rainwater?: The Borough cannot tax rainwater. The Borough can create a Storm Sewer Authority and charge user fees, similar to a sanitary sewer system. With a Sanitary Sewer Authority, user fees are charged to property owners based on the amount of water consumed. Funds received through the fee, can only be used within the operation of the sanitary sewer system. The same would be true for a Storm Water Authority. A Storm Sewer Authority would charge a user fee generally on the amount of impervious area of a property since the impervious area is what generates storm water flow that the municipality needs to manage. Unlike a tax, user fees can be assessed to tax-exempt properties. As an example, a church with a large parking lot would pay a high user fee based on the impervious area because they generate a need for storm sewers due to storm water runoff. Presently, general tax dollars are used for storm sewer improvements and maintenance. Churches, as well as other non-profit entities that generate storm water runoff, do not contribute monetarily for the storm sewer improvements. If a Storm Sewer Authority were to be created, funds received through user fees would be restricted to storm sewer improvements and maintenance. Since Penn State owns a significant portion of the storm water system in State College, it is unclear as to how this fee might apply to the University.

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Code of Ordinances

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1. Where can I access the Nuisance Property Ordinance?: The Nuisance Property Ordinance is incorporated into the Centre Region Building Safety & Property Maintenance Code, Section 806 [4] Rental Housing Permit Suspension for Nuisance and Criminal Violations. Select the link below and the button at the top of the front page of the Code to go directly to Section 806 [4].
Building Safety & Property Maintenance Code

2. Why can't I view the Borough Codification of Ordinances online?: The State College Borough Codification of Ordinances can only be viewed and printed in Adobe Reader or a similar PDF reader. If you do not have Adobe Reader, it can be downloaded for free by clicking the link that follows. If you continue to have problems viewing the Codification, please contact the Administration Department at (814) 234-7110. The Codification can always be viewed at the State College Municipal Building during normal business hours.
Get Adobe Reader...

3. Is this the most accurate Code of Ordinance?

Accuracy of the ordinance information provided here cannot be guaranteed. Utilization of information is at users' sole risk. The information provided is periodically updated, but may not contain the latest amendments. Users should review the latest ordinance texts available at the Borough offices before legal proceedings.

The most up to date Borough Codes can be viewed at the State College Municipal Building, Administration Department, 243 South Allen Street, State College, PA 16801. Please call the State College Borough Administration Department at (814) 234-7110 for more information.

View the Borough Codes online...

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Community Engagement

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1. How does Borough staff receive community input to provide guidance to Council?: The Borough periodically participates in the National Citizen Survey to gather data on how residents view Borough services, amenities, staff and the community in general. This information is used in our decision making processes along with internal performance measurement of the quality of Borough services, efficiency of work flow and effectiveness of staff actions. Borough departments also periodically hold open houses on current projects to gather community input and provide information to those directly affected by construction projects or new programs.
Engage State College...

2. How can I stay informed of Council agendas, minutes and recent actions?: The Borough offers an e-mail and text message notification system, called Notify Me. You can sign up to receive notification when agendas and minutes are available for Borough Council and all Borough ABC's.
Receive Notifications

3. How can I make Borough Council aware of a community concern/issue?: Borough Council greatly appreciates public comment from residents, business owners and other interested parties. At each Council meeting the public can come forward to comment during the Public Hour on issues not addressed in the agenda. In addition to the Public Hour, Borough Council holds public hearings on specific issues as needed.
Upcoming Public Hearings

4. How can I make a formal complaint about an administrative problem or concern?

Formal complaints about the administration of actions or decisions made by Borough Council should initially be put in writing and addressed to the Borough Manager. The Manager is appointed by the elected council to employ and manage all staff and to ensure council decisions are implemented.

You can reasonably expect the Manager to give your complaint proper consideration or direct it to an appropriate person to consider, and you should receive a helpful response.

A response from the Manager may:

lead to a resolution of your problem,
result in an alternative solution that partly resolves your problem, and/or
provide an explanation about why the problem cannot be resolved.

Make a Formal Complaint.

5. How can I make a formal complaint about a Borough Council decision or action?

Sometimes a issue of concern relates directly to a decision of the elected Council, rather than an action or decision of the Borough Administration. As Borough staff are required to implement the decisions of the elected Council, it may require a formal Council decision to resolve the particular problem.

If you want to find out about a Council decision, the minutes of the Council should include both the report considered by the Council and the precise wording of the Council decision. Minutes are available for public inspection online and by request after adoption by Council. Previous Council meetings can also be viewed online at C-NET's website.

If you wish to raise a concern with the elected Council, you should contact the Borough Administration Department to find out more information on how you can do this. Possible ways to raise a concern with the elected Council include:

Request to speak on a specific agenda item at a meeting of the Council or appropriate Authority, Board or Commission (If the item is on the agenda, an opportunity to speak may be given after the item is discussed. If you would like to make a more formal presentation, please contact the Borough Administration Department in advance of the meeting).
Raise the matter during the public hour of any meeting. Presenters have approximately four minutes.
Speak with, or write to, the Mayor and/or Council members. The Mayor and Council members keep their own calendars and hours. Please contact the individual elected official to make an appointment.

In some cases, the process of making formal Council decisions involves public consultation. Sometimes this consultation is required by law and other times it is undertaken voluntarily by the Council. Borough Administration will generally be able to adviseyou if there is a public consultation process where you can participate.

Please contact the State College Borough Administration Department at (814) 234-7110 or email us with any questions.

Contact Your Elected Officials

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Earned Income Tax & eFiling

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1. How do I get earned income tax forms?: The Earned Income & Net Profits Tax Returns can be obtained by visiting the Centre Tax Agency webpage or by contacting the tax office at (814) 278-4709. It should be noted that taxpayers do have the option to file the local tax return on-line through the eFiling module. The eFiling module can be accessed through Services.
Centre Tax Agency

2. Who can file?: One of the goals of the legislature, when adopting Act 32 of 2008, was to realign county boundary lines to avoid school districts being split between two or more counties. In Centre County, residents who live in the Townships of Taylor, Rush, Curtin, and Liberty along with residents of Philipsburg Borough do not file their local Earned Income and Net Profits Tax Returns as part of the Centre County Tax Collection District. This realignment does not change these taxpayers' legal residence nor does it mean that their real estate taxes are treated as outside Centre County. Since most counties have had some of their municipalities shifted for purposes of the Earned Income and Net Profits Tax, each geographic region is referred to as a Tax Collection District rather than a 'county'.

3. What will I need to eFile?

The tax office recommends that you gather together the following items that will be needed during the online interview process:

Compensation and Net Income/Loss Documentation (includes W-2’s, 1099’s, Schedule(s) for income)
Unreimbursed Employee Business Expenses
If you have moved, your addresses and move dates during the tax year
Amount of Philadelphia Tax Credit (if applicable)
Schedule G if claiming out of state tax credits
If required to file a local tax return elsewhere, you will need a completed copy of the other municipality’s local tax return (including documentation)
Proof of non-residency status (if filing at non-resident tax rate
If you owe a payment and plan on paying at the time you file, please have available your credit card and/or checking account information (if you prefer to issue an electronic check or schedule an ACH debit)

4. If I use eFiling, what has been done to protect my confidential information?: The tax office has consulted with security and industry professionals to ensure that steps have been taken to safely gather your personal information and to retain it in a format that protects it from outside sources. The electronic filing system is also protected by 128-bit Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encryption, the industry standard for online banking and trading.

5. Is there a fee to file electronically?: Centre Tax Agency is offering this electronic filing option free of charge to taxpayers. If a taxpayer owes additional taxes for the tax year, he/she can pay the balance due in person, by mail, or by using several electronic payments options. If you pay by authorizing an ACH debit from your bank account, there is no fee for the transaction. However, if you elect to pay by credit card or electronic check, Official Payments Corporation (OPC), a third party vendor, will process your transaction. OPC does charge a fee for their services. If you have questions about paying electronically, please contact the tax office for additional information.

6. How do I eFile?

Follow the step-by-step instructions for the filing process. The program will prompt you to enter information needed to calculate your local tax return. The basic steps are as follows:

Taxpayer Interview (identifies taxpayer and his/her spouse)
Residency Interview (sets up address history including tracking of physical address where you resided and mailing address information)
Income and Adjustments
Tax Return Summary (calculate tax due and status -refund, even, or balance due)
Sign and Print

7. Short form or long form?: Taxpayers will find an option to select a short or long tax return form. For a significant number of taxpayers, the short form allows taxpayers with simple tax circumstances to reduce the amount of data entry needed to file. Please review the information provided to help you determine whether you should file the short or long form tax return.

8. What happens after I eFile?: When you have completed this process, information gathered during the interactive on-line interview will be compared to tax office records. If your filing agrees with information readily available to the tax office, an update will be made to your account signifying that you have met your local filing requirements. It should be noted that your local tax office does not have the same access to your tax information as made available to the state and federal governments. The tax office reserves the right to request additional information, including documentation related to your income, net profits, business expenses, or other items to verify residency issues.

9. What benefit is there to filing electronically?: Taxpayers who file their tax returns electronically should expect a quicker response time for processing their tax returns. Taxpayers with complex tax returns may find that the electronic filing option does not best suit their filing needs.

10. What if I am asked by the tax office to provide additional information and fail to do so?: Taxpayers who have been notified that their tax returns are incomplete will be contacted by the tax office and provided 30 days to respond. If a response is not received in that time frame, the return will move into an incomplete filing status which means that you have not met your tax return filing obligation.

11. Who should I contact with any further questions?: Contact the Centre Tax Agency by phone at (814) 278-4709 or by e-mail at centretaxagency@statecollegepa.us. The Centre Tax Agency is located in the State College Municipal Building, 243 South Allen Street, State College, Pennsylvania.

12. How do I file an extension form?: An extension form with applicable payment must be submitted to Centre Tax Agency by the due date as indicated on the extension form. An extension form DOES NOT grant an extended time to pay a balance due and DOES NOT waive penalty and interest. It only extends the time to file a local Earned Income & Net Profits Tax Return. Centre Tax Agency would also accept a copy of the Federal or State extension form if filed by the due date.

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Economic Development

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1. Where can I get resources on economic development in State College: The Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County (CBICC)/Centre County Industrial Development Corporation (CCIDC), along with its Centre County Economic Development Partnership (CCEDP) investors, provides information on launching, retaining and recruiting diversified businesses in State College. CCEDP Website

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Fire

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1. What should I do in the case of a fire?: Call 911 immediately! Even a small fire can get out of hand very quickly. The 911 dispatcher will send out a call to the Alpha Fire Company to respond to your fire emergency.
Alpha Fire Company

2. Who pays for fire service?: The major source of funds for the equipment and operation of the company comes from the annual budget of the Centre Region Council of Governments (COG). The members of the COG includes the Borough of State College and the Townships of Harris, Patton, Ferguson, College and Halfmoon.

These funds are budgeted annually and follow the process for submission, review, and approval by the COG General Forum. Nearly all of the operational budget of the Alpha Fire Company and funds to purchase apparatus come from the COG. Apparatus purchases are significant, routinely costing hundreds of thousands of dollars and are planned over a 20 year replacement schedule.

3. Who are the Alphas?: The Alpha Fire Company is an all volunteer company of firefighters dedicated to providing professional fire and rescue services throughout the area. Their membership is comprised of individuals employed in diverse fields including computer technicians, sales people, mechanics, police officers, landscapers, bankers, and Penn State students, faculty and staff. Simply put, they are your neighbors.

Alpha firefighters are well trained. The training program provides all the necessary training to safely and effectively function as part of a fire/rescue team. Within the first 18 months of membership, volunteers complete Alpha Fire Company's in-house training course, outside training leading to state certification as Firefighter I, Hazardous Materials Operations, CPR/AED, First Aid and a number of online courses dealing with organization and structure of the emergency services. Both Alpha's in house and external required training is paid for by the fire company and is not a burden to its members.

4. Who is in charge of the Fire Safety Program in the Centre Region?: Centre Region Code Administration provides for a fire safety program under the regulations of the Centre Region Building Safety & Property Maintenance Code.
Fire Safety Program

5. How do I apply for a Fire Safety Permit

No person, firm, business, association or corporation shall operate a place of assembly, business, education, factory, mercantile, hotel, motel, assisted living facility or storage facility or rent such space to a person, firm, business, association or corporation until a fire safety program license (permit) has been issued by the Centre Region Code Administration. Fire Safety Program licenses (permits) are not transferrable and are only valid for a specific tenant, occupant, franchisee, business, or legal entity. If the occupying entity changes, a new fire safety program license shall be applied for within 5 calendar days of the change occurring.

Apply for a permit...

6. What are the requirements for fire extinguishers in rental units?: Every rental unit must have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen area. The extinguisher must be mounted on the wall no higher than 5 feet from the floor and away from the stove. Apartment buildings and rooming houses are required to have fire extinguishers in hallways.

For questions regarding fire extinguishers, please contact the Centre Region Code Administration Office at 234-3812.

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Hosting a Community Event

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1. Can I host an event in the Municipal Building?: State College Borough recognizes the benefit of providing approved groups/organizations the use of Borough meeting room facilities to conduct lawful business that supports the municipal purposes of the Borough as defined in the Borough of State College Facility Use Policy and Regulations. An application must be completed and submitted to the Borough Manager's Office located at 243 South Allen Street, State College, PA 16801. Reservations must be made two weeks in advance if held during normal business hours, one month in advance if the event is scheduled for after-hours. A fee may apply and availability is not guaranteed. The Borough reserves the right to cancel any event scheduled, if the facilities are required for the conduct of official business. Please make sure to read the rules and regulations.

Facility Use Form

2. How do I host an outdoor event in State College?: To host an event on public property (parks, streets, municipal grounds) the event organizer must fill out an application for use of public property (special activities) form and submit a certificate of insurance six to eight weeks in advance of the event to receive approval from municipal staff and Borough Council. If food will be served, an additional form, Registration of a Food Event for Charitable Organization, must be completed and signed at the time of submission. If a public park is to be used, the event organizer must receive prior approval from the Centre Region Parks and Recreation. If roads are to be closed, affected business owners must be contacted and asked to approve the closure in writing prior to submission of the form. If State Roads are to be closed (University Drive, College Avenue, Beaver Avenue, etc.), a TE-300 Form must be submitted to PennDOT and the application process should begin 10 to 12 weeks prior to the event. Staff will be happy to clarify these regulations and assist you in organizing your event. Please call 814-234-7110 for more information.

Application for Use of Public Property Form

3. How do I rent facilities at a Centre Region park?: Visit the Centre Region Parks and Recreation website for more information.
Centre Region Parks and Recreation

4. What do I need to do if I am serving food at a charitable event?: Groups planning to serve any food or drink at an event open to the public must contact the State College Division of Health and Neighborhood Services and return the completed Registration of a Food Event for Charitable Organizations application along with proof of non-profit status to the above address prior to the event or activity.

All applications must be submitted to the Division at least five (5) business days prior to the event.

Food Application for Non-profit Groups

5. How do I go about setting up recycling at my special event?: Contact the Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority by phone at 814-238-3195 and let them know what you are planning. They will work with you to include recycling at your event.

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Housing Rehabilitation and Assistance

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1. Can I get funding to repair my home?: State College has developed the Rehabilitation Assistance Program to provide technical and financial assistance to income-eligible homeowners in State College to make needed home repairs and improvements. Funds are provided from federal CDBG and HOME grants received by State College. For more information, contact the Community Development and Housing Division at (814) 234-7109 or e-mail.

2. How can I get low-income housing assistance?: To find out more about housing assistance programs in the Borough, click here. To find out if you can receive assistance from the County, visit the Centre County Housing Authority website.

3. Does State College offer rental housing assistance to elderly and disabled persons?

State College offers housing assistance at two apartment complexes located in State College: Arnold Addison Court Apartments and Bellaire Court Apartments.

Arnold Addison Court Apartments is a 89-unit apartment building, located at 126 East Beaver Avenue, in Downtown State College, that serves both elderly and disabled persons. Applicants must be at least 55 years of age or handicapped. There are income limits for eligibility. For more information call (814) 238-0400.

Bellaire Court Apartments is rental community containing 18 one-bedroom apartments. One of the apartments has been made accessible to individuals who use a wheelchair and is not reserved for senior occupancy. Residents must be able to live independently.

Income eligible residents, former residents, and relatives of resident of Centre County and adjacent counties are eligible for an apartment at Bellaire Court. Residents of State College Borough and parents of Borough residents receive priority on the waiting list for apartments. Tenants pay only 30 percent of their monthly income as rent. There currently is a waiting list for apartments, but an application may be filed at any time.

Bellaire Court Application

4. What is guaranteed to me by the Fair Housing Ordinance?

Fair Housing practices are guaranteed by the State College Fair Housing Ordinance. Protection is provided based on the following categories: race, color, religion, age (40 and above), ancestry, national origin, place of birth, sex, sexual orientation, source of income, mental or physical handicap, presence of trained guide or support animals, marital status and familial status (pregnancy and children).

It is unlawful to refuse to sell, lease or otherwise withhold any dwelling; falsely deny housing was available; discriminate in terms of sale, rental occupancy,or in service or facilities; discriminate in financing or advertising; or to intimidate, interfere or coerce to keep a person from exercising his/her rights under the Fair Housing Ordinance.

For questions regarding the Fair Housing Ordinance, please contact the State College Department of Planning and Community Development at (814) 234-7109.

5. Am I eligible for the Borough's First-Time Homebuyer Program?: To find out if you are income-eligible for the First-Time Homebuyer Program through the Borough, click here.

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Human Resources

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1. Where can I obtain an employment application?: Applications are accepted online only and only when there is a vacant position. Current vacancies can be viewed online. View Current Vacancies

2. How do I contact the Human Resources Department?: You may reach the Human Resources staff by phone at (814) 234-7115, via email or through the US Postal service. The mailing address is State College Borough, Human Resources Department, 243 South Allen Street, State College, PA 16801.

3. When is the Human Resources Department open?: The Human Resources office is open to the public between the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except on holidays observed by the municipality.

4. Where is the Human Resources Department located?: The Human Resources Department is located on the third floor (Room 324) of the State College Municipal Building located at 243 South Allen Street, State College, PA 16801.

5. How do I know what jobs are available?: Vacant positions are posted online. Available jobs are also posted in various newspapers, websites and professional journals. Potential employees are encouraged to sign up to receive notifications of new job announcements by email. Sign up to receive notifications

6. Where do I submit my completed application for employment?: All applications need to be completed online. If you do not have access to a computer, one is made available to use in our parking office to submit your application. If additional accommodations are needed to assist in the completion of the online application, please contact the Human Resources Department by phone at (814) 234-7115 or via email.

7. Will I be notified if a position becomes filled?: Yes. If you apply for a position with State College, you will receive notification by mail when the position is filled.

8. Where can I find information on Police Testing?: Click here for information on Police Testing.

9. Do I have to take a test?: Some positions at State College require testing, such as police officer testing; however, most positions do not require specific testing.

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Make a Payment or Submit an Appeal

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1. How do I pay a parking ticket?

Parking tickets may be paid by credit card online through the Parking Portal or in person at the Parking Department located on the first floor of the State College Municipal Building, 243 South Allen Street, during regular business hours. Tickets may also be paid by check or cash at the Parking Department during regular business hours or by mail.

Pay Your Parking Ticket

2. How do I appeal a parking ticket?

If you feel a parking ticket has been issued improperly or because of extenuating circumstances beyond your control, an appeal may be filed online through the Parking Portal

All appeals must be filled within 48 hours of ticket issuance
You must enter your plate number, state, and citation number to submit an appeal.
Please be aware if your ticket appeal is denied an additional $5.00 fee will be added to your ticket.

Submit an Appeal

3. How do I appeal an ordinance violation?

If you feel an ordinance violation has been issued improperly or because of extenuating circumstances beyond your control, an appeal may be filed by filling out and submitting the form online or by printing and submitting the form by mail. If you have any questions, please contact the Division of Health and Neighborhood Services by phone at (814) 234-7191 or by e-mail. To submit an appeal you must provide:

Your contact information,
The address where the violation occurred,
The violation number(s) (this can be found on the upper right corner of the violation form), and
The reason for appeal.

Submit an Ordinance Violation Appeal

4. How much is my refuse bill?: Fees for refuse service are billed semi-annually. Rates depend upon the type of service you receive, please refer to your mailed bill for payment amount.

5. How do I pre-register for police testing?: Applicants must pre-register with the State College Borough Human Resources Department to be eligible to test. Application materials are made available each year in early spring. A preliminary application form must completed and returned to the Human Resources Department. A testing fee is also required to register. You may pay by check (made payable to State College Borough), pay in person at the State College Borough Human Resources Department, or pay online. Your preliminary application and payment must be received by the registration deadline. If the testing fee payment would create a financial hardship for you, please contact State College Borough Human Resources Department at (814) 234-7115 to request a testing fee waiver.
Pay the police testing registration fee

6. Can I pay my real estate tax online?: The State College Borough accepts payments of the State College Borough Real Estate Tax online. Please note that this option is not available for the State College Area School District Real Estate Tax.
Read more about paying real estate taxes...

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Neighborhood & Community Services

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1. What constitutes an ordinance violation?: State College Ordinance Enforcement officers may issue violations for noise, dogs off-leash, failure to remove snow from sidewalks, tall grass or weeds (greater than 6 inches), failure to recycle, failure to properly store refuse, accumulated litter/refuse, junk vehicles and open burning. Additionally, rental housing units may accumulate points for nuisance ordinance violations that can result in rental permit suspension. Over-occupancy violations may also result in the suspension of a rental permit.

2. How do I notify municipal officials about a possible code violation?

You may file a complaint about a possible violation in person, in writing, by phone at 814-234-7191 or by filling out an anonymous online form. Please be prepared with specific information, such as:

The address of the property,
Detailed description of the situation,
The length of time you have observed the situation,
You do not have to identify yourself, but having your name will assist us with follow-up and ensure we have all the information we need to resolve the situation.

3. What am I required to do after a snow event?: Within 24 hours of a snow event, property owners are required to removal all snow from sidewalks adjacent to their property.

4. What are the local laws and regulations on junk vehicles?: Vehicles not displaying a valid registration (license plate) and/or valide inspection sticker are not permitted to be kept or stored outside of buildings for more than 30 days.

For questions regarding junk vehicles, please contact the Department of Planning and Community Development at 234-7109.

Questions regarding lawn parking violations should be directed to the Department of Parking Enforcement at 278-4769. This includes private property.

5. What are the rules and regulations regarding noise?: Noise disturbances are a serious problem in Borough neighborhoods. Noise violations are strictly enforced by the Police Department. The ordinance can be enforced 24 hours/day, 7 days a week. If the noise is considered unreasonable, a citation may be issued at any time. The ordinance can be enforced when officers receive complaints for unreasonable noise or when officers encounter unreasonable noise. Questions regarding noise should be directed to that Department at (814) 234-7150.

6. What constitutes over-occupancy in rental units and how is it enforced?: All rental housing must have a permit and must adhere to local codes regarding the number of individuals that can live in the unit, which is typically based on how many square feet. If you have questions, about how many occupants are allowed in your unit, call the Centre Region Code Administration at 234-3812.

One- and two-family homes in residential zoning districts have an occupancy limit of three unrelated individuals, regardless of the number of bedrooms or square feet.

Additionally, in certain residential zoning districts, a single family home that has more than one student living in it requires a special “Student Home” permit and must adhere to separation distances from other registered student homes.

Questions regarding occupancy in one- and two-family rental units should be directed to the Zoning Officer at 234-7109.

7. What are the rules and regulations on open burning?: Burning outdoors is permitted for recreational purposes ONLY when using an approved container. Cord wood, hour logs and charcoal are the only acceptable materials, which may be used for burning. Fires must be contained within the diameter of the container. Camp fires and bonfires are prohibited. Gas and charcoal grills can be used for outdoor cooking.

Questions regarding open burning and permits should be directed to the State College Division of Health and Neighborhood Services at (814) 234-7191.

8. What are the rules and regulations on litter and refuse?: Borough ordinance requires all household refuse to be stored in appropriate containers. The ordinance requires properties to be maintained free of accumulated refuse and provides for fines for those in violation. Party materials - cans, cups, bottles, etc.- should be cleaned up immediately after a party. Person(s) who accumulate refuse will be held responsible for its cleanup. When then person(s) are not known, then the property owner will be held responsible.

Questions regarding the ordinance should be directed to the Division of Health and Neighborhood Services at (814) 234-7191. Additional Information...

9. What is the process for the suspension of rental housing permits?: Rental housing that causes a nuisance in a neighborhood by violating local ordinances and state laws may have the rental housing permit suspended. Violations are assigned a point values and when 10 points accumulate at a rental property, the suspension process is initiated. Rental property owners are typically notified prior to accumulating 10 points as a warning.

Questions regarding the permit suspension may be directed to the Division of Health and Neighborhood Services at (814) 234-7191.

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New Resident Information

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1. How do I get a recycling bin?: Contact Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority to start recycling service and obtain a curbside recycling container. To contact CCRRA call (814) 238-7005, Monday - Friday, between the hours of 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. http://centrecountyrecycles.org/

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Non-Profit Organizations

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1. Can I sell products or services, solicit funds or canvass for information or opinions as a non-profit in State College?: Non-profit groups who are canvassing for donations to benefit a religious or charitable organization are exempt from paying fees but must still obtain a license. Campaigning for political office is exempt from licensing requirements. Applications for these licenses are available in the Department of Finance located on the first floor of the State College Municipal Building. Applications require a background check and may require seven to ten working days to process. Call the Department at (814) 234-7125 for more information.

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Parking

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1. I don't see my question listed. What do I do?: If your question hasn't been answered please feel free to contact the Borough of State College Parking Department at parkingdept@statecollegepa.us or (814) 278-4769. You can also stop in to see us in the municipal building at 243 South Allen Street. Our office is open Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., excluding holidays.
RETURN TO PARKING DEPARTMENT LANDING PAGE

2. How do I pay a parking violation?: Parking violations can be paid with a credit or debit card on the Parking Portal. You can also pay with check or money order in the mail or with cash, check, or money order in the parking office.
RETURN TO PARKING DEPARTMENT LANDING PAGE

3. Can I appeal a parking violation?: Parking violations may be appealed within 48 hours of issuance. Appeals can be filed on the Parking Portal.
RETURN TO PARKING DEPARTMENT LANDING PAGE

4. Can I park in a parking garage without a permit?: Yes. The Beaver, Fraser and Pugh garages allow 24/7 public parking. Simply pull a ticket at the entrance gate and pay it when you leave.
RETURN TO PARKING DEPARTMENT LANDING PAGE

5. How do I buy a parking permit?: Parking permits may be purchased on the Parking Portal with a credit or debit card. You may also buy a parking permit in the parking office with cash, check, or money order.
RETURN TO PARKING DEPARTMENT LANDING PAGE

6. How do I close a parking permit?: Monthly permits for the Beaver, Fraser, and Pugh garages must be closed by returning the permit card to the Parking Office before the effective closure date. Commuter, McAllister Deck, Sparks Lot, and Barnard Lot permits must be closed by sending an email linked to your permit account to parkingdept@statecollegepa.us with your closure date.

7. Can I park on the street overnight?: Parking on the street between 2 and 6 a.m. is not permitted throughout downtown and most of the Borough. Parking permission may be requested by contacting the parking office. Click here for more information on overnight parking.
RETURN TO PARKING DEPARTMENT LANDING PAGE

8. How can I pay my meter?: On-street meters can be paid with coins or a credit or debit card. The rate is $1.25/hour with a $0.75 minimum payment for cards. You can also pay remotely with Parkmobile.
RETURN TO PARKING DEPARTMENT LANDING PAGE

9. Where can I park my motorcycle downtown?

Free motorcycle parking is available on the street in designated areas at the following locations:

400 E College Ave

100 Heister St

100 McAllister St

200 W College Ave

200 S Allen St

No on-street parking is permitted from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. Monthly motorcycle permits are available for the Beaver Garage for $35/month. Permits may be purchased on the Parking Portal and are subject to availability.

RETURN TO PARKING DEPARTMENT LANDING PAGE

10. Are there handicap spaces located downtown?: Yes, there are ADA only spaces located in the downtown garages, lots and on-street meters. A valid handicap placard must be displayed to park in these spaces and payment must still be made if required. A valid handicap placard gives an additional hour grace period beyond your payment expiration time at any metered space. For a full list of handicap space locations please click here and select the "Handicap Parking" tab.
RETURN TO PARKING DEPARTMENT LANDING PAGE

11. I work downtown; where can I park while at work?

Commuters may purchase a monthly permit from the Borough that enables them to park their vehicle on designated streets close to the downtown. The fee is $45 per month. Additionally, the Borough has a night-time permit for Beaver Garage (4 p.m. to 4 a.m.) for employees that work in the evenings that costs $35 per month.

RETURN TO PARKING DEPARTMENT LANDING PAGE

Purchase a Permit...

12. Do downtown businesses validate parking?: For more information on the Merchant Validation Program and a complete list of participating merchants please click here to visit the Downtown Improvement District website.
RETURN TO PARKING DEPARTMENT LANDING PAGE

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Planning & Zoning

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1. How does the Borough enforce zoning regulations?: The link provided below displays the method by which the Borough's zoning officer enforces zoning regulations upon receiving a complaint or viewing a violation in the field. Zoning Enforcement Flow Chart

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Police

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1. Who is the Chief of Police?: John Gardner is the Chief of Police.

2. Where is the Police Department located?: The State College Police Department is located on the first floor of the State College Municipal Building, 243 South Allen Street, State College, PA 16801.

3. How many officers are in the Department?

The State College Police Department currently has:

65 Full time sworn officers,
12 Full and part-time civilians,
15 Part-time crossing guards.

4. Does the Police Department use Tasers?: Yes, Penn State University Police and State College Police have purchased and trained police officers on Tasers, devices that use an electrical impulse to briefly immobilize violent or resisting suspects that provides a safer option for arresting individuals who are clearly at risk of harming themselves or others. The devices, commonly carried by police nationwide, will be carried by State College Police officers and Penn State University Park police officers effective February 24, 2015.

5. How do I get a copy of an accident report?

Accident reports are available at the Police Department from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Please call us at (814) 234-7150 prior to coming to get the report to verify that the report has been completed and is available. There is a fee for copies of the report.

Additionally, as part of our participation in the CARFAX Police Crash Assistance program, all crash reports for State College Police Department are now available for purchase online.

Online Crash Reports...

6. Does your Department do fingerprinting for job applications, concealed weapons permits, I.N.S., etc.?: No, we do not fingerprint for any of these services. Check with Penn State University Police Services at (814) 863-1111.

7. Can you tell me if someone is in jail?: No, we do not have any jail facilities at our Department. All arrested individuals are transported to the Centre County Correctional Facility located at 700 Rishel Hill Road, Bellefonte, PA 16823-1488. You can call them to ascertain if someone is in their facility at (814) 355-6794.
Centre County Correctional Facility Inmate Listing

8. I received a traffic ticket, where do I pay?: You should pay the ticket either by mail or in person to the Magisterial District listed at the top of your citation. The reverse side of the ticket will have information regarding payment.

9. I received a ticket and I do not think it is fair. What can I do?: If you received a ticket and you feel that it was issued in error, follow the directions on the reverse side of your citation for pleading not guilty.

10. Why aren't officers catching "real" criminals, instead of writing tickets?: It is the policy of the Department to enforce all of the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Centre County, and the Borough of State College, and by doing such; the Department is committed to effective traffic enforcement to reduce accidents, apprehend drunk drivers and to ensure a high degree of safety on the highway.

11. Why do officers shine so many lights when they stop a vehicle?: Officers are trained to utilize lighting techniques to illuminate a vehicle for the safety of themselves and the occupants of the vehicle. The shining of the lights is not meant to be something that is annoying or a form of harassment.

12. Why can't officers resolve or intervene in a civil matter?: Officers generally do not actively become involved in civil disputes as they are not empowered by state statute to do so. These incidents are best dealt with by contacting an attorney or the courthouse. However, do not hesitate to call for an officer in any situation, as he/she will recommend some options available to you.

13. Why did it take so long for the Police to come when I called them?: Our response time (the time from when we receive the call to the time we arrive on the scene) is excellent. Unfortunately, we occasionally have all of our units busy on calls, so we must prioritize the calls based on the seriousness of the call and the potential for injury to persons and damage to property.

14. Why do dispatchers ask so many questions when I call the Police?: Receiving dispatchers are trained to get as much information as possible to best determine the nature of the problem and its seriousness. On emergency calls, the dispatcher has already sent the information and an officer is coming to your location while you are being asked additional questions.

15. Can the Police open my car if I have locked my keys inside?: State College Police does provide this service in the Borough and Harris Township. Call the non-emergency police at (814) 234-7150 to request an officer.

16. Can I have an officer check on a license plate?: No, since State and Federal regulations prohibit officers from using the computer to retrieve information not related to investigative purposes, and the information can only be shared with law enforcement entities.

17. I will be leaving for vacation and I am concerned about my vacant house. Can you help?: The Department has a house check program where officers will frequently check on your residence while you are gone. You will need to complete a Vacation Home Check Request form in the event the officers need to contact you while you are away. You can call (814) 234-7150 for more information.
Vacation Home Check Request

18. If I have a complaint against an officer, what should I do?: The Department is committed to maintaining a professional force and, in this regard, if anyone has a complaint concerning an officer's actions, he/she is encouraged to speak with a Department representative about the incident. No one should feel that any sort of retaliation will come as a result of complaint. The department will diligently investigate the complaint.
Commendation or Complaint

19. Why do I see officers speeding all over the place?: The Department Policies are specific about an officer's driving habits, and forbids any violation of speed that is not related to police duties. Officers are allowed, as set by statute and Department Policy, to exceed at times, the speed limit only as it relates directly to a police call.

20. I saw an officer "bust" an intersection with his lights and siren only to turn them off when he got down the road. What was he doing?: Sometimes an officer responding to an emergency call is canceled and this is why he may appear to be using his lights to get through an intersection, but shuts them off afterwards. Similarly, there are times when an officer needs to get to the call quickly, but needs to approach the scene quietly for the safety of the officer and citizens.

21. I received a telephone call soliciting funds for a police group, should I donate?

The Department does not solicit via the telephone. Any calls by another entity should be thoroughly analyzed and double checked before donating.

If someone solicits you for a donation, we recommend that you ask for their name, telephone number, and address. If the organization is legitimate, they will give you this information and then you can decide whether you want to make a donation. It is also a good idea to ask for a financial statement or budget before making a decision about whether to donate to an organization. Never give out your credit card numbers or bank account numbers over the telephone unless you are the one who has initiated the telephone call.

22. How do I apply for a Police Officer position with the State College Police Department?: For more information about hiring procedures, visit our Career Opportunities.
Career Opportunities

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Police Testing

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1. What should I wear or bring for the first day of testing?: There is no dress code for the first day of testing. Because you will be performing tasks indoors, it is recommend that you wear comfortable and appropriate attire. Applicants are required to provide a photo ID when checking-in at the testing location. Water fountains and restrooms will be available at each testing location. Food and beverages are not available at the testing sites. You will have a limited amount of time between testing phases so applicants are encouraged to bring any food and beverages that they may need for the day. Please note, eating, drinking or the use of electronic devices are not permitted during the written test.

2. How long will the physical fitness and written portion of the testing last?: The physical fitness portion of the testing will occur in the morning and the written portion will be in the afternoon. Applicants should plan to spend the majority of the day at the testing location.

3. Can I still be hired with a misdemeanor arrest on my record?: Applicants must be free of conviction for crimes punishable by imprisonment for greater than 90 days. Less serious convictions, including traffic, will be examined and may be cause for rejection.

4. Will a past driving suspension prevent me from being hired?: Not necessarily. An applicant’s overall driving record will be reviewed and a poor driving record may be cause for disqualification.

5. Do I need to be Act 120 certified to become a police officer for State College Police Department?: No. Appointees who are not already certified for municipal law enforcement by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania are immediately scheduled for training leading to certification. State College officers are generally enrolled in a Pennsylvania State Police Academy 23-week training program with classes being held Monday through Friday.

6. If I am already a police officer outside the state of Pennsylvania, do I still need to attend the PA Police Academy?: Individuals who have previously been certified as a police officer in another state will have their police certification training curriculum reviewed to determine if any Pennsylvania basic police training will be required.

7. Is there a residency requirement?: Yes, police officers must establish residency within a 30 mile radius of the State College Police Department.

8. Is there a height requirement?: No.

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Public Health

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1. Does the municipality offer classes on safe food handling?: State College conducts workshops on safe food handling practices to lessen the potential for food borne illness outbreaks in the Centre Region. For more information, call (814) 234-7191.

2. Does the municipality provide radon detection kits?: No, however, the American Lung Association offers radon kits that can be purchased at: https://www.lung.org/local-content/_content-items/our-initiatives/current-initiatives/mpor-radon-awareness.html

3. Where can I find more information about West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus is a disease that is spread by infected mosquitos. So the best defense against the West Nile Virus is not giving them a place to breed. The State of Pennsylvania provides a wealth of information on their website.

Albert M. Lavan is the contact for the Pennsylvania West Nile Virus Control Program in Centre County. Mr. Lavan can be reached by phone at (814) 355-6791.

Pennsylvania's West Nile Virus Control Program

4. Why are some restaurants inspected more than others?: By law, our department inspects all eating and drinking establishments once per year. Inspectors may go back several more times in that year if complaints are received, or if the initial inspection was not passed. When the department receives a complaint, an inspector is sent to check the validity of the complaint and make sure any corrective action is taken, if needed. If a restaurant does not pass its initial inspection, a follow-up inspection is scheduled to make sure that changes are made. The reason for each inspection is listed in the report.

5. How many violations can a restaurant have and still be in compliance?

A restaurant may have a few violations and still be in compliance, or it may have only one violation and be out of compliance.

Violations are broken into two categories:

Foodborne Illness Risk Factors: These are the types of violations that can make someone ill if they are not corrected. Factors such as good worker hygiene, correct holding and storing temperatures for foods and making sure the food comes from approved sources are all critical for ensuring public health. If one of these violations is found, it must be corrected immediately or it will put the entire inspection out of compliance. The violation will still show up on the report if it is corrected immediately, but the restaurant will be considered in compliance. On the report, these violations are listed in red.

Good Retail Practices: These violations are also important for protecting public health, but have less potential to cause a significant foodborne illness. If a restaurant has one or two of these violations, they should be corrected immediately or a follow-up inspection will be required. It may or may not put the restaurant out of compliance, depending on the severity and the circumstances of the violation.

6. I can't find a certain restaurant when searching for it by name, why is that?

If you are having trouble finding a restaurant, try searching for just a few letters or parts of the name.

For example: If you are trying to find inspections for The Waffle Shop, but the actual name might be The Original Waffle Shop, try searching for just Original or Waffle Shop

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Public Works

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1. How do I get water service?: Any property owner desiring the connection of a service or lines to their premises must make a written application on the form furnished by the Authority giving all information required, at least twenty (20) days before service is required, which application must be approved by the Authority or its duly authorized agent before the water will be supplied. When required in writing by property owner, application for water service may be received from a tenant under the condition that the owner acts as a guarantor for the payment of all charges. Such action shall not relieve the owner of any obligation which exists under the Rules and Regulations of the Authority.
State College Borough Water Authority

2. Whom do I call before I dig?: According to PA Act 287, anyone digging in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania must contact Pennsylvania One Call at 8-1-1, before beginning excavation to avoid damaging underground utilities.
PA One Call

3. How do I report a pot hole or other street impairment?: You can report a pot hole or other street impairment through the Borough's RequestTracker module/app.

RequestTracker

4. Do I need a permit?: You may need a permit if you are doing any sanitary sewer work, any underground utility work, any plantings other than in the grass in the grassplot, any driveway entrance work or if you are occupying the street or grassplot for a period of time (no fee).

Click here to find out if you need a permit.

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Refuse and Recycling

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1. Can the Borough pick up electronics?: Yes, the Borough will pick up your electronics (printer, TV, toaster, etc...) but you'll need inform Public Works before sitting it out. You can do this by filling out the Bulk Refuse & Brush Collection Form or call Public Works at (814) 234-7135. Bulk Refuse & Brush Collection Form

2. Am I required to recycle?

Yes, Pennsylvania Act 101 mandates recycling for many communities including State College, College, Harris, Ferguson, Harris and Patton. All residents and businesses are required to recycle the following:

Mixed office paper (magazines, paperboard, envelopes, etc.),
Newspaper & phone books,
Plastic bottles, narrow-necked jugs & jars,
Steel & aluminum cans,
Glass bottles, and
Corrugated cardboard.

In addition to these items, the Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority will no longer accept covered devices (electronics) as refuse.

3. Who should I contact about recycling?

The Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority (CCRRA) is responsible for curbside recycling in State College. To contact CCRRA call (814) 238-7005 or visit the CCRRA office during regular operating hours, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The CCRRA’s transfer station is located behind the mall at 253 Transfer Road, Bellefonte, PA 16823.

Recycling drop-off bins are available 24/7.

Centre Region Recycling and Refuse Authority

4. How do I obtain recycling and refuse containers?

The Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority provides red bins for residential recycling and blue bins for multifamily housing units and commercial recycling. Visit CCRRA's website to find out how to obtain a bin.

State College Borough provides bins for both trash and organics recycling. Each property is assigned two distinctive carts, one to be used for regular trash (black lid) and one for organic waste collection (green lid). Through a mailed survey, each residence had the opportunity to select the size cart to be used for each collection: 35-gallon (2-3 tall kitchen bags), 65-gallon (4-6 tall kitchen bags) and 95-gallon (7-9 tall kitchen bags). Contact the Public Works Department at (814) 234-7135 with any questions.

5. What day of the week is my refuse picked up?

Curbside refuse and recycling collection occur on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Bulk and brush item collection begins on Monday of each week unless there is a holiday.

Routes are planned to allow early access to areas where parked cars will pose a problem for collection vehicles. Curbside collection of trash and recycling, including organics, occur on the same day. Check the map provided or call (814) 234-7135 to find out the day of your collection.

Collection Day Map

6. What else can I recycle?

View our A to Z Guide on Recycling for information on all things recycling. Below are a few of the highlights:

Miscellaneous plastics: Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority has a recycling drop-off container at their office and at the Hamilton Square Shopping Center for items such as margarine and yogurt containers. Drop-off recycling information is available on their website.
Plastic bags and other plastic film: Many of the major retail stores and grocers provide bins for their customers to recycle plastic grocery bags and bread bags. Stores in the State College area that recycle plastic bags include: Giant, Wegman’s Food, Weis and Wal-mart.
Organics: Composting also known as organics recycling is available for all residential refuse accounts. The Borough will begin collecting food and yard waste at the curb to be recycled in April of 2013. You can also compost at home.
Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFL’s): The Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority has a free CFL recycling program in place that accepts unbroken, compact bulbs. Just drop the bulbs off at their office located behind the mall at 253 Transfer Road, Bellefonte, PA 16823.
Covered devices (computers, monitors, etc.): The Centre Region Recycling and Refuse Authority has opened a permanent collection site for electronics. Check out their Electronics Recycling Guide for more details on the program.
Books: Soft cover books can be collected at curbside if bundled just like magazines and newspapers or at a drop-off bin labeled “mixed paper.”
Tires: Tires can be recycled at the Centre County Recycling & Refuse Authority for a fee of $10.00 for any tires weighing up to 280 pounds. If the weight is greater than 280 pounds, the tires are charged at $70/ton ($100/ton for commercial accounts).
Antifreeze: Most antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, which causes dizziness or nausea and is deadly if ingested. Most service stations and repair shops recycle antifreeze. If you replace your own anti-freeze, have a local service station recycle it. Also, you might consider purchasing non-ethylene glycol anti-freeze.
Lead-Acid (Automotive) Batteries: When purchasing a new battery for your vehicle, most places offer a cash discount for returning your old one. If you have an extra lead-acid battery that you need to dispose of, stores that sell car batteries will accept them back.
Motor Oil: Several service stations in Centre County accept used motor oil from residents. The Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority keeps a list of motor oil recyclers available for residents who need to dispose of their used motor oil.
Microwaves: Residents may bring microwaves to the Transfer Station during normal operating hours and place in a location designated for Scrap Metal.
Brown paper bags: Recycle brown paper bags with newspaper or use to hold your compostable items for curbside recycling.
Household batteries: Alkaline batteries can be thrown away with you regular trash. Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd), Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH), Lithium Ion (Li-ion) and small sealed lead (Pb) can be recycled. Drop-off locations include Radio Shack and Wal-mart. You may also bring your old rechargeable batteries to the Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority office.
Roof Shingles: The Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority accepts post-consumer shingles at a discounted rate of $35 per ton. An acceptable load should include only shingles, nails, and tarpaper.
Paint: The best way to dispose of paint is to use the paint. If you cannot use the paint try giving it to someone who can: theater groups, church groups, shelters for people in need, community organization or Habitat for Humanity's ReStore (call for specification 814-353-2390).

7. Does refuse pickup change during the holidays?

Yes, see the holiday refuse schedule for more information.

Holiday Refuse Schedule

8. Does State College compost?: Yes, the Borough composts and is expanding its composting program. In the spring of 2013, the Borough expanded residential collection of food waste Borough-wide to decrease the amount of waste sent to the landfill and collect organic matter for its composting operations. Find out more about the Borough's compost program.

9. What is accepted in residential organics recycling carts?

The following Items are accepted as part of our residential organics recycling program:

food waste both cooked and uncooked,
paper products such as plates, napkins, tissues and newspapers,
garden waste,
grass clippings, brush and leaves.

10. Why is State College Borough switching to automated collection?: Borough Council authorized changing the existing labor-intensive collection system to an automated system in order to expand the food/organic waste collection pilot program to all Borough residential refuse customers without increasing refuse fees. The collection of refuse carts by this automated equipment takes about 12 seconds per stop compared to close to 45 seconds per stop with current collection equipment. Automated collection is also a safer collection method, reducing the risk of injury to Borough employees.

11. What is automated collection?: Automated collection is a new collection method in State College, but is used across the Commonwealth and around the world. Each residence is provided a wheeled cart for refuse and a wheeled cart for organics. Carts are rolled to the street on collection day. The collection truck will lift and dump the container, replacing it at the curb. The operator almost never leaves the truck and controls the entire process from the driver’s seat.
View video of trucks in action...

12. Do I use my own trash bins?

No, each household is assigned up to two distinctive carts at no additional cost, one to be used for regular trash (black lid) and one for organic waste collection (green lid). Each residence had the opportunity to select the size cart to be used for each collection:

35-Gallon (equivalent to one typical household garbage can)
65-Gallon (equivalent to two typical garbage cans)
95-Gallon (equivalent to three typical garbage cans)

13. Why must I use a Borough issued cart?: These carts are necessary for automated collection of refuse and the additional service of food waste collection curbside. Each cart has an identification number linking the cart to your property and to your refuse account.

14. When and where should I place my refuse and organics carts?

Place your carts at the curb the night before collection day. Carts must be placed out for collection by 7 a.m. on your collection day. Retrieve your carts by the end of your collection day. Crews work 10-hour days; therefore, your carts may be collected late in the day. Please wait an appropriate amount of time before calling in a missed cart.

Instructions for Borough issued carts: Place carts three feet apart at the curb line. Keep carts, at least, three feet away from mailboxes or other obstructions. Point the lid arrows on the cart toward the street. Retrieve your carts by the end of your collection day. It is important to place your cart correctly at the curb to improve automated collection efficiency.

15. Can I bag my organic materials?: Yes, if you use the correct bags. For example, paper grocery bags are compostable. Compostable plastic bags are also available. Do not use “bio-degradable” bags, unless the product also says “compostable.” Even "bio-degradable" bags may breakdown into compounds that are undesirable in finished compost.
Compostable Bag Flyer

16. Do I still have to bag my trash if it is in a cart with a lid?: Borough ordinances still require that all refuse material be bagged. Otherwise, the loose material can still blow away while the cart is being dumped on windy days. To keep your neighborhood and the Borough litter free, please bag your trash. Organic waste, however, can be placed loosely in the organics recycling container.

17. What if I have extra trash that won’t fit in the cart?: Most homes will probably experience this at least once or twice per year. If you occasionally have extra trash, place it bagged or in a spare container near the regular trash cart on collection day. The driver will dump the cart then place the extra material into the cart to dump it again. For organic waste, make sure to use a compostable bag or place in a spare container, no loose material will be collected.

18. What should I do when it snows?: Carts should not be placed on a snow bank. Accumulated snow should be cleared before the carts are placed at the curb.

19. Why do I have to make sure the lid is closed?: The lid on Borough carts is designed to discourage pests, including crows, from scattering rubbish. Also, trash taken to the Transfer Station for disposal is billed to the Borough by weight. Snow and rain will add unnecessary water weight to the trash. Since water weighs 8 pounds per gallon, it doesn’t take much rain or snow to add significant and unnecessary weight to the trash, increasing the cost of disposal.

20. If I move, do I take the cart with me?: No, the cart is assigned to the address on the refuse account.

21. What if I need a larger or smaller cart?: If you select a cart and determine that it is not the right size for your volume of refuse or organics recycling, the Borough will offer you the opportunity to exchange carts. Please call the Public Works Department at (814) 234-7135 for information on how to exchange carts.

22. Am I required to recycle organics?: No. Participation in organics recycling is strictly voluntary; however, restrictions remain on certain organics, like grass clippings, which may not be collected as garbage. The Borough performs seasonal leaf collection and weekly brush collection, both from the ground. Loose piles of organic material will not be collected, except during the seasonal leaf collection schedule. The organics carts are for food scraps and other organics like grass clippings, garden gleanings, hedge clippings and spent flower and vegetable plants; if you do not compost those items in your back yard. If you opt out of the organics recycling program, grass clippings may be dropped off at the Glenn O. Hawbaker Recycling Center.

23. Can I get at-door trash collection?: At-door service is offered for residual waste (garbage) for a fee unless you have a medical exemption. As with other recycling, organics must be taken to the curb. To request medical exempt status for at-door collect, please contact the Public Works Department at (814) 234-7135.
More information on at-door service...

24. What food scraps can be recycled?: Nearly 30% of what we throw away in our garbage is organic and the average single-family household throws away about 45 pounds of food scraps and food-soiled paper every month. Items such as vegetable and fruit trimmings, meats, fish and poultry scraps and bones, plate scrapings, egg shells, coffee grounds, paper towels and napkins–even greasy pizza delivery boxes–can be recycled in your organics cart.

25. What happens if my cart is damaged?: Manufacturers offer 10-year warranties on these carts, so damage should be rare. If the damage is a result of wear and tear or Borough crews collecting the carts, we will repair or replace the cart. If a cart is damaged due to misuse, the cart will be repaired or replaced and the resident will be invoiced for the cost of repair or replacement. Please contact the Department if your cart is damaged at (814) 234-7135.

26. Can I get an extra garbage cart?: If your volume of residual waste occasionally exceeds the capacity of your cart, we will accept an additional bag of trash beside the trash cart. If your volume of refuse exceeds a 95-gallon cart on a regular basis, someone on our staff will meet with you to discuss recycling more to reduce the volume of waste headed to the landfill. Alternative billing arrangements can be made if it is not possible to reduce your residual waste to a single 95-gallon cart.

27. Can I get an extra recycling bin?: Contact Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority at (814) 238-7005 to inquire about additional recycling bins.

28. How do I request bulk item collection?: Bulk items are collected on a regular weekly schedule, except during holiday weeks. It is necessary to call in or complete the web form to request a bulk item collection. Call (814) 234-7135 to arrange for bulk pick up or select the "Submit a Service Request" button on the Borough's homepage to access the bulk item request form.
Submit a Service Request

29. What items are accepted in the green-lid organics cart?

The following items will be accepted:

Leaves (except during spring and fall leaf collection)
Food waste
Grass clippings
Branches & tree limbs, under 2" in diameter
Roots
Plants, flowers, shrubbery and prunings
Sawdust
Wood ash & charcoal (cold ash only)

30. What items are accepted in the black-lid garbage carts?: Use your garbage cart for everything that cannot be recycled in your green-lid organics cart or recycled in you red or blue recycling bins.

31. What items are not be accepted in the green-lid organics cart?

The following items will not be accepted in the green-lid organics cart:

Leaves (during spring and fall leaf collection)
Pet droppings or kitty litter
Plastics or synthetics
Tree limbs over 2" thick or tree stumps
Sod and soil
Lumber or construction material
Non-compostable bags
Coal ash or hot wood ash/charcoal

32. How should I prepare items for my green-lid organics cart?

Rake leaves and grass into the cart by placing it on its side
Cut branches to fit in the cart with the lid closed
Remove soil from root systems of plants
Place ashes in the receptacle only after fully cooling
Use compostable bags for any additional yard waste

33. How do I get my leaves collected?

During the fall leaf collection season, leaves are collected at the curb every over week. During the spring leaf collection season, leaves are collected every week. During the winter and summer months, leaves can be deposited in the organics recycling bin for collection.

To view the current leaf collection schedule and find out how to prepare your leaves for collection, visit the Refuse and Recycling webpage. If you choose to opt out of the organics recycling program, leaves can be dropped off at Glenn O. Hawbaker Recycling Centre during the summer and winter.

Leaf Collection Schedule

34. How do I start or stop my refuse collection?: Please contact the State College Borough Finance Department at (814) 278-4766 to start or stop service at your residence or business.

35. How can I find out more about the Borough's organics recycling program?: Watch a video about the organics recycling program by clicking here.

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Rental Property

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1. As a rental property owner, what rules and regulations must I follow?: The provisions of the Centre Region Building Safety and Property Maintenance Code apply to all existing residential and non-residential rental structures and all existing rental premises and constitute minimum requirements and standards for premises, structures, equipment and facilities for light, ventilation, space, heating, sanitation, protection from the elements, life safety, safety from fire and other hazards, and for safe and sanitary maintenance; the responsibility of owners, operators and occupants; the occupancy of existing structures and premises, and for administration, enforcement and penalties.
Building Safety and Property Maintenance Code

2. How many points can be assessed before a rental permit is suspended?

Violations at a property are tracked for a 12-month period. Each violation that occurs is assigned a point value from 1 to 3. When 5 or more points accumulate, a notice of violation is sent to the property owner. A correction plan is requested in the notice. The property owner also has the option to request an informal meeting with the Director of the Division of Health and Neighborhood Services

When 10 or more points accumulate, a permit suspension notice is sent and the permit suspension process is initiated.

3. Does my rental property currently have any property maintenance violation points assessed?

There are two files available for viewing points issued to properties in the State College Borough. These files will be updated by the close of business each Tuesday:

Complete Points Issued Listing - This file contains the full listing of both pending and assigned points issued to all properties in the past 12 months.

Weekly Points Issued Listing - This file displays points pending and assigned to properties in the week prior to the posting date of the file.

Points Assessed

4. How can I avoid getting points?: If you are a diligent property manager and come across a problem that would cause your rental property to be assessed points, please contact the Borough for assistance, if needed, and take immediate action to correct the problem. Violations resulting from property owner/manager/tenant requests for assistance will NOT count against the property.

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Rumors & Trending Topics

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1. Rumor: Marijuana is Legal in State College

Fact: State College Borough Council approved an ordinance that gives officers the option to charge an individual with a summary offense instead of a misdemeanor for the possession of a small amount of marijuana. The ordinance only applies in the Borough of State College and marijuana is still illegal in ALL municipalities of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

The ordinance goes into effect in September of 2016. On the Penn State University campus, University police must still follow federal and state laws that consider marijuana use and possession a misdemeanor. Also, the ordinance does not apply in Harris and College Township where State College Police also have jurisdiction. Under the State College Borough ordinance, police can charge a person in possession of 30 grams or less of marijuana with a summary offense that carries a fine of $250. They can also charge a person caught using marijuana a summary offense that carries a fine of $350. While the ordinance allows State College Police the flexibility to bring a lesser charge when possession occurs in the Borough, it does not legalize marijuana. Under Pennsylvania State Law, possession of a small amount of marijuana is illegal and can be charged as a misdemeanor. State College Police officers will still have the option to charge a student with a misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine. A convicted individual will also face driver’s license suspension, a criminal record and the risk of losing federal student aid. In addition, the new ordinance does not cover paraphernalia, which still carries a misdemeanor charge. Paraphernalia can include any object used to ingest, store or use marijuana. Possession of drug paraphernalia is punishable by up to one year in jail and a $2,500 fine. Students using or possessing marijuana on- or off-campus are also subject to disciplinary sanctions from the Office of Student Conduct. Code of Conduct sanctions are separate from any legal charges and can be generated whether a student receives a summary offense, or state or federal charges. Penn State Student Legal Services, a unit of Student Affairs, has posted FAQs on its website to provide students with more information on the ordinance.

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Special Activities

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1. What is a Special Activity?: A Special Activity is a request for the use of public property for an assemblage, procession or other special event that will require the closure of Borough roads, sidewalks, and/or bikeways. Find out more about the LSRS Festival...

2. When do I need a permit to hold Special Event?: Organizers of special events that require the closure of roads, sidewalks and/or bikeways must obtain a Special Activities Permit from the Borough prior to the date of the event. Organizers may also be required to secure permits from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and Centre Region Parks and Recreation if the event requires the closure of state roads and/or municipal/regional parks.

3. When do I need to submit the Special Activities Permit?: Applications should be submit eight to ten weeks prior to the event date.

4. What if I am serving food?: Charitable organizations planning to give away food or drink items to the general public or sell food or drink items as a fundraiser must register their food event with the Borough Division of Health and Neighborhood Services.

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Stormwater

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1. Why does stormwater matter to me?

Stormwater matters to everyone due to the risks associated with pollution and flooding.

Pollution of stormwater occurs when illicit discharges containing toxic and hazardous materials are disposed of into the storm sewer system. Because stormwater is not treated, these toxic and hazardous materials make their way into various bodies of water throughout the area. The addition of these materials can harm wildlife and destroy habitats for various organisms.

Flooding occurs during especially heavy rains when the storm sewer system cannot the excess surface water runoff flowing to the drains. This can cause overflowing of the systems, which can cause flooding of roads.

2. What is an illicit discharge?

An illicit discharge is a discharge into the storm sewer system that is not entirely composed of stormwater. According to State College Borough Code of Ordinances Ch. XIV Sec. 211.m., non-stormwater discharges which may be allowed to the Borough's separate storm sewer system include:

Discharges from firefighting activities;
Potable water sources including dechlorinated water line and fire hydrant flushing.
Irrigation drainage;
Routing external building wash-down (which does not use detergents or other compounds);
Air conditioning condensate;
Water from individual residential car washing;
Springs;
Water from crawl space pumps;
Uncontaminated water from a foundation or from footing drains;
Flows from riparian habitats and wetlands;
Lawn watering;
Pavement wash waters where spills or leaks of toxic or hazardous materials have not occurred (unless all spilled material has been removed) and where detergents have not been used;
Dechlorinated swimming pool discharges;
Uncontaminated groundwater.
Diverted stream flow;
Uncontaminated pumped groundwater.

3. What is Stormwater?: Stormwater is the natural source of fresh water that originates during precipitation events. When it lands on the ground, it infiltrates and recharges the aquifers that we get our drinking water from and rehydrates the plants and animals that make up our food. Find out more about stormwater...

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Trees

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1. How do I request a tree removal?: If you would like to request removal of a public tree for any reason, please contact the Borough Arborist at 234-7145 or send an email. If trees, in the opinion of the Arborist or Public Works Director, are considered to be immediate hazards, they may be removed without notice or appeal. Other requests will be considered at the next regularly scheduled Tree Commission meeting.

2. How do I request a tree to be planted?: Requests for new trees can be made in writing, by email or by calling the Arborist directly. The Tree Commission will review planting requests at their next regularly scheduled meeting. Specific species request will be considered. Affected property owners are responsible for the cost of new trees if one has never been planted in that location before. Trees planted as replacements are paid for by the Borough. The standard size tree is 1 ½” in caliper as measured six inches above ground level. Larger caliper trees may be requested if the affected property owner agrees to pay the added cost.

3. Can I plant something other than grass in the public right-of-way?: Prior permission (Tree Permit) is required to plant anything in the area between the sidewalk and curb other than grass. Flowers, shrubs and other plant materials allowed in this area cannot interfere with sight distance or encroach upon the public sidewalk or road.

4. Who pays for new trees?: The purchase cost of new trees is the responsibility of the affected property owner if this is the first time a tree was planted at this location. The cost to actually plant these trees is assumed by the Borough. Normally, the cost to purchase a replacement tree, as well as the cost to plant them, is paid for by the Borough.

5. How do I report a tree problem?: Vandalized or hazardous trees can be reported to the police or directly to the Borough Arborist. All other tree related matters should be directed to the Borough Arborist at 234-7145 or email.

6. What does a ribbon on my street tree indicate?: Generally, a colored plastic ribbon on a street tree only indicates that the tree's future is being discussed by the Arborist and Tree Commission. This may include discussions on possible maintenance or removal. Not all trees with ribbons will be removed and unless it is an immediate hazard, the property owner and neighborhood residents will be invited to a Public Hearing to discuss the issue prior to it being removed.

7. How do I find a qualified arborist to work on my trees?: Arborists and tree workers are listed in the phone book under “Trees.” Those identified as ISA Certified Arborist have passed a proficiency exam, maintain adequate levels of insurance, and regularly attend Continuing Education events.

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Volunteer Opportunities

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1. Do you want to volunteer in the State College community?

There are many ways you can learn about volunteer opportunities in State College.

First, find organizations seeking volunteers through a volunteer network database:

Volunteer Match (enter in your location to find local opportunities)
Do Something (targeted toward youth)
Generation On (provides resources on projects youth can start on their own to serve the community)

Second, Find local volunteer opportunities through an organization like the Community Help Center: Along with assisting clients, the Community Help Center also helps members in our community who are looking for a volunteer opportunity. Depending on the person's interests, the organization will work to place them either at Community Help Centre or with another agency in the area.

Before contacting the a local volunteer agency, consider why you want to volunteer, how much time you have to donate, what issues you want to address and what populations of people you want to work with. Call 814-234-8222 or stop in the Centre Helps at 141 West Beaver Ave to find volunteer opportunities that match your interests.

Centre Helps

2. How do I become an AmeriCorps Service Member?: Visit the Pennsylvania Mountain Service Corps website for more information on how to serve.

Pennsylvania Mountain Service Corps

3. How do I volunteer on a Borough advisory board?: Click the link below to learn how to volunteer.

Volunteer...

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