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1. Why Do Backflow Prevention Assemblies Need to Be Tested?

Mechanical backflow prevention assemblies have internal seals, springs, and moving parts that are subject to fouling, wear, or fatigue.  Also, mechanical backflow preventers and air gaps can be bypassed.  Therefore, all backflow prevention assemblies have to be tested periodically to ensure that they are functioning correctly.  Mechanical backflow prevention assemblies have to be tested with properly calibrated gauge equipment.

2. How Often Does the Backflow Prevention Assembly Need to Be Tested?

In order to ensure the proper operation of a backflow prevention assembly, it must be tested and certified upon initial installation and at least once a year thereafter by a licensed backflow tester.

3. What Is A Cross-Connection?

A cross-connection is any temporary or permanent connection between a public water system or the customer’s potable water system and any source or system containing non-potable water or other substances.

Common cross-connections

• Private Wells – where the private well connection is connected to a service line receiving water from a public water supply.  The untreated water could be pumped into the potable water supply which serves the home and the public water system.
• Lawn sprinkler systems – where the stagnant/contaminated water from the sprinkler system could be drawn into the drinkable water supply for your home.

4. What Is A Backflow Prevention Assembly?

A backflow prevention assembly is a means or mechanism to prevent backflow.  The basic means for preventing backflow is an air gap, which either eliminates a cross-connection or provides a barrier from backflow.  The basic mechanism for preventing backflow is a mechanical backflow preventer, which provides a physical barrier to backflow.  The principal types of backflow preventers are the reduced-pressure principle assembly, the pressure vacuum breaker assembly, and the double check valve assembly.

5. What Is Back-Siphonage?

Back-siphonage is backflow caused by negative pressure (i.e. vacuum or partial vacuum) in a public water system or customer’s potable water system.  The effect is similar to drinking water through a straw.  Back-siphonage can occur when there is a stoppage of water supply due to nearby firefighting, a break in a water main, etc.

6. What Is Backflow?

Backflow refers to the reverse flow of non-potable water, or other substances, through a cross-connection and into the piping of a public water system or customer’s potable water system.  Two types of backflow are backpressure backflow and back-siphonage.

7. What Is Backpressure Backflow?

Backpressure backflow occurs when the downstream side of the piping system is greater than the supply pressure in a public system or customer’s potable water system.  Backpressure can result from an increase in downstream pressure, a reduction in the potable water supply pressure, or a combination of both.  Pumps can create increases in downstream pressure; temperature increases in boilers, etc.  Reductions in potable water supply pressure occur whenever the amount after being used exceeds the amount of water being supplied, such as during waterline flushing, firefighting, or breaks in the water mains.

8. Why Do Cities Need A Cross-Connection And Backflow Testing Program?

These programs safeguard the public drinking water and protect the health of its residents.  They do this by helping to ensure that any contaminants that could backflow into the public water supply system are isolated within the internal distribution system. Failure to comply with annual testing could result in the city disconnecting water service until the backflow device is tested.

9. Does A Lawn Irrigation System Require A Backflow Prevention Assembly?

Yes. Potable water supply to lawn irrigation systems shall be protected against backflow by a pressure-type vacuum breaker, a double-check valve assembly, or a reduced pressure principle backflow preventer – depending on the degree of the site hazard. To obtain an irrigation/backflow permit, please visit the Longwood Portal Page or contact the Public Works Department at 407-263-2382.

10. When Requesting A Test For My Backflow Prevention Assembly, How Much Should I Expect To Pay For This Service?

Only Licensed testers are authorized to test backflow prevention assemblies. The City of Longwood conducts backflow testing only (no repairs) for a fee of $40. You can also contact a licensed plumber. A list of licensed testers can be found here. Fees can differ depending on the testing company, quantity of backflow prevention assemblies to be tested, number of locations, etc. In general, expect between $50-$200 per assembly. 

11. Where Do I Send A Copy Of My Backflow Testing Report Or Verify That Testing Of My Backflow Prevention Assembly Has/Has Not Been Completed?

Email the report to the Backflow Program.

12. Can I Perform Backflow Prevention Tasks On My Own?

No, the installation, repair, replacement, and/or testing of in-scope testable backflow assemblies must be performed by a licensed contractor.  Other un-related plumbing tasks can be performed by a homeowner, but not activities relating to backflow prevention devices.

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1. Construction Work hours

SEC. 18-2 Hours of Operation, per city code

Excavating, grading and the erection, demolition, alteration or repair of any building shall occur between the hours of 7:00 am and 6:00 pm Monday through Friday and Saturdays 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. NO construction activity except for repairs may be completed on Sundays or city holidays. 

2. What codes does the Building Division utilize in their review?

The City of Longwood Building Division utilizes the following codes: 

2020 Florida Building Code 

2017 National Electric Code 

2020 Florida Mechanical Code 

2020 Florida Plumbing Code 

2020 Florida Accessibility Code 

2020 Florida Fuel Gas Code 

2020 Florida Existing Building Code 

2018 Florida Fire Prevention Code 

2020 Florida Residential Code 

2020 Florida Energy Conservation Code 

2018 International Property Maintenance Code

3. Do I need a permit?

Most people are not aware of the requirements for a building permit, as it applies to repairs, replacement or upgrades to existing systems, or structures. So, do I need a permit? The short answer is; “any owner or owners authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or the change of the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any parts of a structure, or system is required to pull an applicable building permit prior to commencement of work. This requirement is outlined in section 105.1 of the Florida Building Code; which in turn has been locally adopted by the City of Longwood.

Now when it comes to most project, people understand that if they construct a new building, enlarge a building, demolish a building or move a building, they need a permit to do so, but the terms alter, and repair are usually misconstrued. The second misconception is the need for a permit for buildings/ structures other than a dwelling unit or commercial building. In the state of Florida, and adopted and recognized by the City of Longwood, any structure placed, erected, repaired, constructed, altered, repaired, moved or demolished must have a building permit applied for and approved prior to commencing any associated work. This includes, but is not limited to decks, porches, pools, pergolas, sheds, fences, and any electrical, mechanical, gas or plumbing work.

 Let’s focus on the two terms alter or repair. To alter a building or structure is to change the existing floor plan, layout or use of a building/ structure. A repair is defined, “to reconstruct or renew of any part of an existing building/ structure for the purpose of its maintenance or to correct damage.” This can be misleading, but in general if you are only replacing a small area, let’s say of your house siding, you would not need a permit to do so. If you need to repair more, than yes a building permit is required. It can be difficult to understand the break between small area and more, but it is always recommended to contact the building division for clarification.

What happens if I do not pull a permit? If a permit is required, then you as the property/ building owner will be held in violation of the Florida Building Code, and the City of Longwood Municipal code, and at minimum a double permit fee will apply. This may only be the start. Depending on what the work was, how much has been done, and where it is located can add further complications to the violation. For instance, if you build a building/ structure in a flood zone, it is possible that you will have to remove it, at your own cost. Secondly, if your work has gone beyond a required inspection, the work will need to be removed in order for the required inspection to be completed, once the permit is issued.

Again, it is recommended to follow these three steps:

• Always hire state licensed contractors, and make sure you understand what work they are charging you for. Always ask to see their state license.
• Always check to make sure if a building permit is required, if you are not sure, prior to commencing.
• As the legal property owner, you are the ultimate responsible party for any action or work being done on your property. Make sure that the contractor you hire has applied, received and posts all required permits on the property prior to commencing the work.

4. Contractor Registration Requirements

To register as a contractor in the City of Longwood please email the below listed information to Building@LongwoodFl.org:

- Copy of current state license

- Copy of current BTR (Business Tax Receipt)

- Copy of current Workers Comp policy or exemption certificate

- Copy of current General Liability Insurance ( The City of Longwood must be listed as the holder)

- If you are a registered contractor you must provide a copy of your current Seminole County Competency card

Please allow 48-72 hours for your registration to be processed. 

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1. Do I have to obtain a garage sale permit to have a garage sale?

Permits can be obtained Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. There is no cost for the permit. This permit must be publicly displayed at the sale. Prior to a garage sale, a permit must be obtained at City Hall.

2. What is Longwood's population?

As stated in the 2000 Census, the City of Longwood has a population of 13,745.

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1. Am I a City of Longwood resident?

Although you may live in the City of Longwood with a 32750 zip code, you may still be in Unincorporated Seminole County. This applies to residents in the 32779 zip code as well. The district map attached below shows if you are a Longwood Resident and what district you are in.

2. Where is City Hall located?

Longwood City Hall is located at 175 W Warren Avenue, Longwood, FL 32750.

3. What are City Hall's hours of operation and normal business hours?

Longwood City Hall is open Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the exceptions of certain holidays.

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1. How do I make a complaint and have the Code Compliance Officer investigate?

To report an alleged violation, you may use the City's Code Violation Reporting Portal online, or call (407) 260-3465. Please note that the City is prohibited by state law from acting on anonymous complaints and that any information provided to the City is subject to Florida's Public Records laws and can be requested by others - including the owner of the property with the violation. 

2. I called in a complaint. Nothing on the property has changed. Why doesn’t the City do something?

Code Compliance is a legal process established by Florida State Statutes. Properties are alleged to be in violation. Property owners must be given adequate time to correct the violation and, in some cases, may have to appear before the Special Magistrate at a monthly meeting. This process can take many weeks in some situations. However, most properties come into compliance within a matter of days.

3. A neighbor is playing loud music. Who do I call?

The Noise Ordinance is enforced by the Police Department. Please call the non-emergency number at the Police Department at (407) 665-6650.

4. My neighbor hasn’t cleaned their pool in months. I’m worried about the potential for insects, etc. Can the City clean this pool?

No, but the City can issue a violation notice and impose fines and potentially place a lien on the property to help bring the property into compliance. 

5. Can I run my business from my house?

Some home occupations are allowed. To preserve the residential character of neighborhoods, home businesses are restricted. There shall be no change in the outside appearance of the building or premises, or other visible evidence of the conduct of such home occupation, including outside storage or accessory buildings, or signage, including signs on mailboxes.. No equipment or process shall be used in such home occupation which creates noise, vibration, glare, fumes, odors, or electrical interference detectable to the normal senses off the lot. For code specifics, see the Longwood Development Code or contact the Planning Division at planning@longwoodfl.org. A home business also will need a Business Tax Receipt from the City of Longwood. 

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1. How far in advance can I book a rental?

We accept bookings up to 18 months in advance.

2. How do I make a reservation?

All rentals are first come, first serve. One-half of the rental fee and a signed Facility use contract will secure your date. Call 407-260-3483 to schedule an appointment. Reservations may be made in person Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. You may also email.

3. How do I schedule a time to meet my caterer, florist, etc.?

Appointments are available Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., depending on the availability of the Building. We do not show the Building while it is in use. Call 407-260-3483 or schedule an appointment via email.

4. How do we get in the building for our event?

The City of Longwood will open and close the building for each event.

5. What type of decorations can we use?

Decorations are permitted in the space you have reserved and will be approved by the Building's management. Tape, tacks, nails, staples, and the like are not permitted to attach decorations. Glitter and confetti-like decorations are also prohibited. The party renting the Building is responsible for removing all decorations immediately after the scheduled event.

Candles are permitted as long as the flame is enclosed in glass, such as a votive or hurricane lamp, and the wick is at least 1 inch below the top of the glass rim. Candles may also be used if floating in liquid. Hand held candles are not permitted.

6. When can my caterer, florist, DJ, etc., set up and deliver items?

Deliveries and setup must occur during your allotted rental period.

7. How late can we stay?

The event must end, and all guests must vacate the premises by the end of your rental period. The Community Building is not rented past midnight.

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1. What are the burning regulations/restrictions?

Open burning is not permitted. Burning restrictions do apply. Please see the 

Burning Ordinance.

2. What is the City's policy on burning brush?

View the city's

burning ordinance.

3. Where do I get a free smoke detector/alarm?

Call the Fire Department at 407-260-3460 or you can either submit a service request.

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1. Does the Fire Department exchange sharps containers?

Yes. The Fire Department will exchange sharps containers free of charge at any of both Fire Stations: Station 15 located at 301 West Warren Avenue and Station 17 located at 400 Wayman Street. Sharps containers can be dropped off 7 days a week between the hours of 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.

2. Why can't the Fire Department fill my swimming pool?

It would be inappropriate for the Longwood Fire Department to utilize apparatus and personnel for the purpose of filling a private pool. Doing so would hinder the agency’s primary mandate to stand ready to provide fire suppression and emergency medical attention for out citizens.

3. Does the Fire Department perform free blood pressure checks?

Yes. The Fire Department will perform free blood pressure checks at both Fire Stations: Station 15 located at 301 West Warren Avenue and Station 17 located at 400 Wayman Street. If you are interested in a free blood pressure check, stop by either of the Fire Stations any of the 7 days of the week between the hours of 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.

4. What should I do if my smoke detector is hooked directly to a power source?

The Fire Department recommends the installation of battery-operated smoke detectors to provide continuous safety in the event of a power failure.

5. How often should I change the batteries in my smoke detector?

Smoke detector batteries should be changed every 6 months. Resolve to change your smoke detector batteries at the same time you change your clocks to or from daylight savings time. This will help to ensure proper smoke detector operation.

6. Will I see a doctor faster if I go to the hospital by ambulance?

No. Hospital staff triage patients the same whether they come in by ambulance or arrive by personal vehicle. Patients are seen by a physician based on priority status.

7. Why does an engine come to my house when I call for a medical emergency?

911 calls are received and screened by trained dispatchers to determine what type of emergency the caller is having. Once the type of emergency is determine the closest units are then dispatched. Medical emergencies that require advanced life support require additional staffing to properly treat a patient; hence 2 units are sent to the alarm.

8. Does the Fire Department fill fire extinguishers?

No.

9. How do I contact Seminole County Fire Department for unincorporated Longwood?

The main number is 407-665-5010.

10. How do I get a copy of an EMS Transport Report?

Please call to make your request at 407-260-3490 or mail your request to the Fire Department at:
235 West Church Avenue
Longwood, FL 32750

A form of identification is required, along with $1 cash or check made payable to “City of Longwood.”

11. Who do I contact for questions about my EMS transport bill?

You would contact ADPI Billing Services at 305-945-2280.

12. How do I get a Fire truck to come to a school function?

Please contact Fire Marshal Sexton via email: lsexton@longwoodfl.org

13. Who do I contact about properly installing a car seat?

Please contact Ryan Short in Community Relations at 407-260-3410 or via email: rshort@longwoodfl.org.

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1. What is the Commission-Manager form of government?

The Commission-Manager form is the system of local government that combines the strong political leadership of elected officials in the form of a commission or other governing body, with the strong managerial experience of an appointed local government administrator or manager. The form establishes a representative system where all power is concentrated in the elected commission and where the commission hires a professionally trained administrator to oversee the delivery of public services. In Longwood, a 5 member commission is elected at-large in non-partisan elections. Their terms are for 3 years.

2. Is it a responsive form of government?

In Commission-Manager government, commission members are the leaders and policy makers elected to represent various segments of the community and to concentrate on policy issues that are responsive to citizens' needs and wishes. The Manager is appointed by the Mayor and Commission to carry out policy and ensure that the entire community is being served.

3. What is the Mayor and Commission's function?

The Mayor and Commission are the legislative body; its members are the community's decision makers. Power is centralized in the elected Mayor and Commission, which approves the budget and determines the tax rate, for example. The Mayor and Commission also focus on the community's goals, major projects, and such long-term considerations as community growth, land use development, capital improvement plans, capital financing, and strategic planning. The Mayor and Commission hire a professional administrator to carry out the administrative responsibilities and supervise the administrator's performance.

4. What is the City Manager's function?

The City Manager is hired to serve the Mayor and Commission and the community and to bring to the local government the benefits of training and experience in administering local government projects and programs on behalf of the governing body. The Manager prepares a budget for the Mayor and Commission's consideration; recruits, hires, and supervises the government's staff; serves as the Mayor and Commission's chief adviser; and carries out the Mayor and Commission's policies. The Mayor and Commission and citizens count on the Manager to provide complete and objective information, pros and cons of alternatives, and long-term consequences.

5. Does the City Manager participate in policy determination?

The City Manager makes policy recommendations to the Mayor and Commission, but the Mayor and Commission may or may not adopt them and may modify the recommendations. The City Manager is bound by whatever action the Mayor and Commission takes.

6. Are all Commission-Manager governments structured the same way?

While the Longwood Commission is elected at large, other municipalities elect their councils by district. Some local governments have mayors who are elected by the voters at large; Longwood’s is elected by the Commission itself.

7. How much citizen participation is possible under Commission-Manager government?

The City of Longwood welcomes citizen participation in the decision-making process. Because professional local government management offers government of the people, by the people, and for the people, it sets the stage for citizen activism by encouraging open communication between citizens and their government. Citizens have the opportunity to present issues to the Mayor and Commission at General Meetings. In addition, citizens are encouraged to become members of boards and committees.

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1. Can I apply for more than one job?

Yes. You may apply for as many jobs as you wish, but a separate application must be submitted for each job posting.

2. How long will I find out if my application has been selected?

Applicants selected for interviews will be contact by the hiring manager.

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1. What do I do if online incident reporting is not right for me?

If your incident is an emergency, call 911. If non-emergency call 407-339-1297.

2. What if this happened in another city can I file a report using this online police citizen reporting system?

No, If a crime took place outside of the City of Longwood Police Department please call the police department for that city.

3. What if this happened on a state Freeway?

If this took place on a state Freeway please call the Highway Patrol Office nearest you.

4. What is a known suspect?

A known suspect is when you or someone else knows the person or where to find the person who committed the crime or the license plate number of the vehicle the suspect(s) were in.

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1. Do I need a permit to remove a tree?

Yes. A tree removal permit shall be required for the removal, replacement, or alteration of trees unless specifically exempted (see exemptions below). Alteration includes damaging, topping, root pruning, cutting, hatracking, poisoning, or grade change that can be expected to adversely affect the health of protected trees and vegetation. A tree removal permit can be applied for through our on-line portal under Planning and Zoning applications.

Tree removal permit exceptions:

1. Emergency removal due to storm damage as well as removal by the city from the right-of-way shall not require a permit.
2. Owner-occupied single-family dwellings are exempt from the tree protection requirements and are not required to obtain a tree removal permit. Where the occupant of the single-family is not the owner, the owner may provide a letter requesting the exception for that occupant. Staff will review the application to ensure that the removal is limited to the minimum amount of tree removal necessary and not intended to avoid requirements for the construction of a subdivision.

Code Reference: LDC 3.5.5

2. Do I need a permit to replace a fence?

Yes, the replacement of more than 25% of the linear feet of fence will require a permit. Please ensure that you have a scaled survey as a part of your application that shows where your proposed fence will be located - this is very important!

Fence requirements can be found in LDC 5.3.3.

3. Is my address/parcel located within the City of Longwood City limits?

There are many areas that have a "Longwood" mailing address that are not actually in the incorporated City limits of Longwood. If you are in an unincorporated area, you will actually do your permitting through Seminole County.

One way you can check is by searching your address or parcel number at the Seminole County Property Appraiser's GIS site.

A quick shorthand is that any property located west of I-4, including the Wekiwa Springs and Jamestown areas, or any property with a 32779 zip code, are not located within the City of Longwood.

4. I have the Zoning for my property - how do I find out what uses are allowed?

You'll want to view the Table of Allowable Uses for the appropriate district. The Table of Allowable Uses can be found in our Longwood Development Code in Article 2.3.0.

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1. What can I do about a street light outage?

If you notice a street light outage please report it to Duke Energy, call 407-629-1010, or Email Duke Energy.

2. Why are paint and flags in my yard?

This is likely a utility locate and they will be removed upon completion.

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1. What is the Tax ID number for child and dependent care expenses for Summer Camp?

The City of Longwood's Summer Camp Tax ID Number for child and dependent care expenses is 59-1008196.

2. How can I rent a Ball Field, an Amphitheater, or a Pavilion?

Visit the Facilities and Rentals page to find the correct forms.

3. Where can I sign up for Babe Ruth baseball and/or softball?

Longwood Babe Ruth Baseball and Fast Pitch Softball is offered to children from 4 to 18 years of age and functions out of Candyland Park located at 599 Longdale Avenue in Longwood. There are fall and spring seasons and all coaches are certified and have undergone background checks. You can visit the Babe Ruth Website.

4. Can I rent the Community Building?

Yes. To rent, please visit the Community Building facility entry.