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Assessor

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1. What is the assessor's role?

The assessor is a State certified individual whose duties are to discover, list, and place a value on all taxable real and personal property in the city, in a uniform manner. The assessor is not involved in the collection of property taxes.

2. What is the difference between real and personal property?

For property tax purposes, "real property" refers to land and buildings and the rights associated with ownership, while "personal property" is the furniture and equipment owned or used by businesses.

3. How does the assessor value property?

Wisconsin law requires that property assessments be based on fair market value. Estimating the market value of your property is a matter of determining the price a typical buyer would pay for it in its present condition. Some factors the assessor considers are what similar properties are selling for, what it would cost to replace your property, the rent it may earn, and any other factors that affect value. IT IS IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER THAT THE ASSESSOR DOES NOT CREATE THIS VALUE, BUT RATHER INTERPRETS WHAT IS HAPPENING IN THE MARKET PLACE.

4. What is market value?

Market value is defined as the amount a typical, well-informed purchaser would be willing to pay for a property. The seller and buyer must be unrelated, the seller must be willing, but not under pressure to sell, and the buyer must be willing, but not under any obligation to buy. The property must be on the market for a reasonable length of time, the payment must be in cash or its equivalent, and the financing must be typical for that type of property. If all of these conditions were present, this would be a market value, arm's-length sale.

5. I've heard you develop appraised values by computer. Is this correct?

Just as in many other fields, computers are useful in the assessment process. Assessors are trained to look for relationships between property characteristics and market value. By coding these characteristics and studying sales prices, assessors can estimate value by developing formulas and models. Computers are much faster and are capable of advanced analysis in this area. But despite these capabilities, common sense and assessor judgment are always required to verify assessments. Our appraisers have vast valuation experience and are highly familiar with all neighborhoods throughout the City.

6. Can the assessment on my property be changed even if the assessor has not been inside my property?

To make a proper assessment of a dwelling or other building, it is desirable for the assessor to see the inside and the outside of the property. The law requires that property be valued from actual view or the best information available. The assessor’s office has a vast amount of historical records on the physical characteristics of each property in the municipality. Even though the assessor may have been unable to go through your property, the assessment will still be reviewed, based on the existing records and the sales of similar properties.

7. Will I be penalized if I don't let the assessor in when an inspection is requested?

When an interior inspection is unavailable or not allowed, the assessor will attempt to update the records by looking at the property from the outside and using any other available information. To ensure an accurate assessment, it is to your advantage to allow the assessor inside your property when an inspection is requested. By denying an inspection, you may lose the right to appeal your assessment to the Board of Review.

8. What will happen to my assessment if I improve my property?

Generally speaking, improvements that increase the market value of a property will increase the assessed value. The following are typical items that will increase the assessed value of your property:
• Added rooms or garages
• Updating old windows and siding
• Substantial modernization of kitchens or baths
• Central air conditioning
• Adding Fireplaces, Decks, Porches, Sheds, etc.
• Extensive remodeling or updating, etc.

9. Will my assessment go up if I repair my property?

Good maintenance will help retain the market value of your property. Generally, your assessment will not be increased for individual minor repairs such as those that follow; however, a combination of several of these items could result in an increased assessment:
• Repairing concrete walks and driveways
• Replacing gutters and downspouts
• Replacing hot water heater
• Repairing or replacing roof
• Repairing porches and steps
• Repairing original siding
• Patching or repairing interior walls and ceilings
• Exterior painting
• Replacing electrical fixtures
• Replacing furnace
• Exterior awnings and shutters
• Weather stripping, screens, storm windows, doors
• Exterior landscaping including lawns, shrubbery, trees, flowers

10. How can my assessment change when I haven't done anything to my property?

General economic conditions such as interest rates, inflation rates, supply and demand, and changes in tax laws, will influence the value of real estate. As property values change in the market place, those changes must be reflected on the assessment roll.

11. Why does the City have to conduct a revaluation?

The City of Superior Assessor's Office revalues all property on a quasi-cyclical nature to keep pace with changes in the market, as dictated by Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 70. The City of Superior must maintain its assessed values within 10% of true full market value within a specified time period. During a revaluation year, all assessments are examined and adjustments are made where necessary to guarantee that all properties are assessed at market value. This is done to assure that taxes are distributed equitably and uniformly.

12. I've been told that everybody's taxes go up after a revaluation. Is this true?

No, it is not. If the total levy remains the same, only those properties which are not presently paying their fair share will pay more taxes after a revaluation. Properties presently paying more than their fair share will pay less.

13. Do all assessments change at the same rate?

There are differences between individual properties and between neighborhoods. In one area, the sales may indicate a substantial increase in value in a given year. In another neighborhood there may be no change in value, or even possibly a decrease in property values. Different types of properties within the same neighborhood may also show different value changes. For example, one-story houses may be more in demand than two-story houses, or vice-versa. Older homes in the same area may be rising in value more slowly than newer homes. There are numerous factors to be considered in each property that will cause the values to differ. Some of the factors that can affect value are location, condition, size, quality, number of baths, basement finish, garages, and many others

14. How will my taxes change as a result of a new assessment?

Though the value of your property affects your share of taxes, the actual amount you pay is determined by the budget needs of the schools, city, county, technical college, and state reforestation. All of these taxing units decide what services they will provide in the coming year and how much money they will need to provide those services. Once this decision is made, a tax rate is adopted that will generate the needed dollars. Your property taxes are then determined by applying the annual tax rate (in the form of dollars per thousand), multiplied by your total assessment divided by 1000.

Example: If the total assessed value of your property were $75,000, you would multiply the tax rate (also known as mill rate) per thousand times 75. ($75,000/1000).

Utilizing the 2005 City of Superior tax rate of $19.54 per $1,000 would result in the following real estate tax estimate:

(75,000/1000) 75 X $19.54 = $1465.50

Tax rates change on an annual basis. The total tax dollars (levy) to be collected is determined by the overall budget needs of the governmental and educational entities that require our tax dollars to provide the services we demand and expect. The total amounts of the levy (budgets) are then divided by the total assessed value of the community to determine the overall tax rate for that given year.

15. Where do my tax dollars go?

Although your tax payments are made to the Treasurer, a large share of your tax dollars are turned over to other governmental units such as the schools, county, and the state. City services such as Public Safety, Public Works, Health and Sanitation, Administration, Grant and Aid Projects, and Culture and Recreation are also bought with your tax dollars.

16. Will I be notified if there is a change in my assessment?

Wisconsin law requires that whenever an assessment is changed the owner must be notified.

17. How do I know if my assessment is fair?

You should first attempt to decide for yourself what your property is worth. This can be done by looking at area sales, contacting appraisers, and comparing assessments of similar homes. Sales and assessment information is open to the public for review and available in the Assessor's office during regular business hours.

Additional questions and information can be reviewing in the Wisconsin Department of Revenues publication “Guide For Property Owners” which can be obtained at following web address - Guide For property Owners

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Building Inspection

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1. When do you need a permit?

A permit is needed whenever you plan to:

1. Build a house or other building (including sheds)
2. Make improvements or alterations to your home or business
3. Move or demolish a building
4. Roof or reroof your home, business, or other building
5. Make electrical, plumbing, or heating installations or alterations to existing systems
6. Install a wood burning stove or build a fireplace (including gas fireplace inserts)
7. All accessory buildings and residential fences

2. How much does a permit cost?

There is no single fee for a permit. The fee schedule is reviewed and adopted by the City Council on a regular basis. The permit fee will be collected at the time the permit is issued. Click on an individual permit application on the Building Permits page of Building Inspection for types of permits and applicable fees. To get a permit application/see fees:

3. What is plan checking?

Plan checking is a function performed prior to the issuance of a building permit and assures you that to the best of our ability your plans meet the applicable codes. Most major commercial and/or industrial projects are plan checked by the State of Wisconsin. Most residential plans are checked by the Building Inspection Division staff.

4. Why do you need a permit?

The purpose of a permit is to ensure that construction complies with the codes adopted by the City of Superior. These codes have been enacted by our City Council, after careful consideration, to protect health, general welfare, and your investment in your property. The evidence of a building permit is often necessary to obtain financing from lending agencies.

5. How soon can I get a permit?

When plans are submitted, you will be told approximately when the plan check will be completed. Generally, signs and nonengineered minor projects can be plan checked in 3-5 working days and single-family dwellings in 5-7 working days. A detailed plan check may include a review or check by Planning, Engineering, Fire, County Health, or other agencies. Plans are viewed on a first-come, first-served basis.

6. When are inspections required?

A general rule to remember is that before any phase of construction is covered or concealed by a subsequent phase of construction, an inspection is required.

7. Ho do I call for an inspection?

Telephone our office (715) 395-7288, 24 hours a day. If our office is closed, please leave a message on the voice mail. 24-hour advance notice is required.

8. What does the inspector do?

The inspector checks the work being done for compliance with the approved plans and applicable codes and ordinances. They will inspect each phase of the job and will approve it before the next part of the job begins. The job card lists the inspections that must be made on your project. As each inspection is made and approved, the job card will be signed and dated. On new construction, the inspections might follow this pattern:

1. Footing/foundation and setbacks. Made after the forms and reinforcing bars are in place and prior to concrete being poured.
2. Underground plumbing. Made when sewer drain line is in place and either filled with air or water for a pressure test.
3. Floor joists and insulation. Made before the subflooring is installed.
4. Framing. Made after all framing, including doors and windows, is complete.
5. Exterior lath. Made after paper and wire are installed and prior to scratch coat. A second inspection of the scratch coat is also required.
6. Sheetrock. Made after sheetrock is hung and nailed and prior to taping.
7. Final. Made when all areas of the project are complete.

Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical inspections are also made at various stages of completion and prior to being covered by any subsequent work.

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City Attorney

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1. Can the City Attorney’s office give me legal advice or answer my questions on private legal matters?

No. The City Attorney’s office cannot advise citizens in private legal matters, nor can we recommend the names of private attorneys.

2. If the City Attorney’s office cannot give me legal advice, what is the office’s role?

The City Attorney’s office represents the City of Superior, meaning the Mayor, the Common Council and all City departments and committees. The City Attorney does not represent private citizens.

3. I received a citation, can I talk to the City Attorney about it?

You may, but you must first plead not guilty to the citation and go through the court process. The clerk of courts will schedule you for a pretrial conference, at which time the City Attorney will speak to you about your citation.

4. I can’t be there for my pretrial conference, can I reschedule it?

Due to the other responsibilities and demands placed upon the City Attorney's office, our schedule does not allow for the rescheduling of pretrial conferences, unless in the case of a medical emergency. If you wish to contest your citation, it is your responsibility to make arrangements to appear at your scheduled hearings.

5. I don’t understand what an ordinance means, can the City Attorney’s office explain it to me?

Yes. The City Attorney’s office can provide an explanation of the City’s ordinances so that citizens may be assured they are in compliance with the Code. The City Attorney’s office can also familiarize you with the City’s zoning code, traffic code and property maintenance code.

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City Clerk

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1. Where do I pay a fine/Check my court date?

Douglas County Clerk of Courts 1313 Belknap St 3rd Floor, Superior, WI 54880. For their website click here.

2. Where can I get a birth/death certificate?

Douglas County Register of Deeds 1313 Belknap St 1st Floor, Superior, WI 54880. to access their website click here.

3. Where do I pay Real Estate Taxes?

Douglas County Treasurer 1313 Belknap St 1st Floor, Superior, WI 54880. For their website click here.

4. Where can I get a passport/marriage license?

Douglas County County Clerk 1313 Belknap St First Floor, Superior, WI 54880. More information can be obtained by clicking here.

5. Where can my child get a work permit?

Superior Chamber of Commerce 205 Belknap St Superior, WI 54880. The Chamber website can be viewed here.

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Environmental Services

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1. My basement is flooded, what should I do?

When a homeowner or business experiences flooding here are some tips that might be helpful:
1. Call the Environmental Services Division at 394-0392 to report the flooding.
Report what has happened and when it occurred.
Provide your name, a phone number where you can be reached and the address where the flooding occurred.
Indicate if there will be a person at this location if a city employee needs to stop by.
2. When a City crew is available, they will be sent to investigate the City sewer to determine if it is flowing properly.
3. As a property owner who has experienced flooding, there are some steps that you can take:
Before cleaning, take pictures of any damaged property for your records to be used for reimbursement of insurance or claims
Contact the Douglas County Health Department Sanitarian at 395-1304 for information on potential health concerns.
You may want to consider having a professional cleaning company perform the clean up of your basement.
Contact the City Clerk's office at 395-7200 if you intend to file a claim for damages. Please note that the City does not typically cover claims for water damage that occurs during major rain events.
4. Did you know that the City offers a program for single-family residential homes that have experienced flooding? It is called the "Stormwater Flood Control Pilot Project." For more information call 394-0392 ext. 102.

2. What are the results of the Riparian Landowner Survey Results?

Click here. Riparian Landowner Survey Results

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Finance

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1. How is my Personal Property Tax bill calculated?

Businesses are required to fill out a Statement of Personal Property by March 1st of each year identifying values of property owned and used by their business as of January 1st of the applicable year. The Assessor division reviews these values and determines the current value on which the tax is assessed. Taxes are calculated by multiplying the assessed value of the personal property by the current year’s tax rate and are due on January 31st each year.

2. How and when is my delinquent sewage bill calculated?

Delinquent sewage is calculated by SWLP personnel by subtracting the payments applied for sewage fees from the amounts charged for sewage fees plus interest charges. The period covered in this calculation is August 1st of the previous year through July 31st of the current years. Delinquencies for this period are placed as liens on the owner of the applicable property if not paid by November 15th.

3. How do I get bidding documents for City projects?

Please click this link Demand Star

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Fire Department

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1. Where do I need to place my smoke detectors?

Smoke detectors should be located on each floor of your house. In addition, there should be one installed in each bedroom. Smoke detectors should not be installed in locations that are adjacent to bathrooms or cooking facilities since the steam from these locations can cause false readings. Smoke detectors should be installed in the highest portion of a room preferable at the highest point of the ceiling. They should not be installed within 4" of where the ceiling meets the wall. If mounted on the wall surface, they should not be mounted within 4" of the ceiling but not more than 12" from the ceiling. Lastly, smoke detectors should not be mounted near doorways or windows.

2. Can I have a campfire in my yard?

Please Click here More...

3. What does the fire department do besides putting out fires?

Fire Inspections, Fire Education, Hazardous Materials Level A Response Team, High Level Rescue, Water Rescue, Confined Space Rescue, First Responders

4. Why does the fire department do fire inspections?

The fire department is responsible for enforcing laws which we call fire codes for all business and apartment buildings in our community. Wisconsin makes most of the codes. The City Council also makes some of the codes. A code is a rule which a store or owner of an apartment building must follow for fire safety. The department has 3 Fire Inspectors who go to every store and apartment building in Superior and check to see if the people are following the rules. Without these rules we would have more fires.

5. How many fire stations do we have and where are they located?

The Superior Fire Department consists of 3 stations located within the City of Superior. The Headquarters station is located at 3326 Tower Ave and has the following personnel on duty - Chief, 1 Battalion Chief, appx 4 Firefighters, Asst Mechanic and Administrative Asst. Station #2 located at 723 Hammond Av has 3-4 firefighters on duty daily. Station #3 located at 2531 E 5th St. had 3 firefighters on duty daily.

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Human Resources

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1. Does the City have any employment vacancies?

Please visit our Job Postings here.

2. When will you be testing for police or fire positions?

For information click here.

3. How do I apply for employment with the City?

You must complete a City of Superior Employment Application, which is only accepted for currently posted vacancies. For an an application click here.

4. I am a City employee, who would I contact if I have questions about City benefits?

Contact the Human Resources Department at 715-395-7210.

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Library

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1. How do I get a library card?

Local
Residents of Douglas County, age five and older are eligible for library cards at the Superior Public Library. The initial card is free. Applicants must present a picture identification and proof of residence, such as a piece of mail that’s been delivered to the new address, a printed receipt with their name and address on it, or check blanks with their address printed on them. In order for children under age 14 to get a library card, they must be accompanied by a parent or another adult willing to take financial responsibility for materials checked out in the child’s name. The parent or adult must provide proper identification. Applicants must be present to be issued a card. Library cards expire after four years, after which another free card will be issued. A Superior Public Library card can be used at any library in the Northern Waters Library Service area.

Out of State
As of January 1, 2003, non-residents of Wisconsin wishing to check out materials from Superior Public Library will be charged a twenty dollar annual user’s fee. In exchange, non-residents of Wisconsin will be allowed to place holds, a service currently reserved for in-state patrons. Non-residents of Wisconsin will still be asked to use their home libraries for inter-library loan service.
** Cloquet residents will be exempt from the fee because Cloquet Public Library and Superior Public Library have a reciprocal borrowing arrangement.

Other Wisconsin Residents
Wisconsin residents living outside of Douglas County are also eligible to check out materials by using their Merlin system library card, by having their home library card bar-code, or by being issued a Superior Public Library card with proper identification.

2. How many items can I check out at a time and for how long?

Video cassettes - 4
DVD's - 4
Books on tape - 4
Books on CD- 4
CD’s - 4
Art prints - 1
Puppets - 1
Magazines - 8 total, with 4 of kind
Books - any reasonable total number, but preferably no more than 4 per call number, particularly items used for school reports.

Loan Periods:
Books (including new books), books on tape, books on CD, CDs, puppets, puzzles, holiday pamphlets, Wisconsin government documents--3 weeks

Magazines, videocassettes and DVD's - 1 week

Inter-library loan items - 2 weeks

Art prints - 6 weeks

All items are due by closing time on the due date.

3. Can I renew the items I have checked out?

All items belonging to the Superior Public Library or any of the Merlin Consortium libraries can be renewed twice, unless someone else is waiting to check them out and has put a hold on them.

*Note: Inter-library loan items (non-Merlin/you filled out a paper form) are not renewable.

Renewals can be made in person, on the phone or through the library’s web page here.

4. Can I request an item that is checked out or owned by another library?

Holds:

Holds can be placed on all circulating material belonging to the Superior Public Library and members of the library consortium. Holds can be placed in person or on-line. There is a hold limit of 20 items at a time per patron. Patrons will notified by phone, e-mail or mail when reserved books are available. Items will be held for one week.

Inter-library Loans:

Wisconsin residents may request materials from other libraries using inter-library loan for items that are not available within the Merlin consortium.

Loan Periods:

Books (including new books), books on tape, books on CD, CDs, puzzles, holiday pamphlets, Wisconsin
government documents - 3 weeks
Magazines and videos - 1 week
Inter-library loan items - 2 weeks
Art prints - 6 weeks
Puppets - 6 weeks

All items are due by closing time on the due date.

5. What happens when my items are late, lost, or damaged?

Patrons are expected to return materials on time and in good condition or promptly pay fees or fines incurred.

Adult Fines:
Overdue books, books on tape, books on CD, CDs, videocassettes, holiday pamphlets, Wisconsin government documents and magazines - 10 cents per day, with a maximum fine of $2 per item.
Overdue DVD's - $1 per day, with a maximum fine of $6 per item.

Children’s Fines:
Overdue books, books on tape, books on CD, CDs, videocassettes, puppets, puzzles and magazines--10 cents per day, with a maximum fine of 50 cents per item.
Overdue DVD's - 50 cents per day, with a maximum fine of $2 per item.

A replacement fee will be charged for items that are lost or non-returned.

Fees for damaged materials will be determined at the discretion of the circulation staff on a case by case basis. Some examples include books and other items that are wet, torn, dirty, weather-damaged or smelly.

Materials that include more than one piece will be billed according to how it can be replaced. For example, a book on tape missing one tape would likely be billed for the entire set, unless a replacement for just one tape was available.

If a patron incurs more than $5 in charges, they will not be allowed to check out any more items until the total is reduced to $5 or less. At that time they will have the option to pay the remaining fine or bring it in the next time they come in. They cannot keep a “running tab.”

Overdue notices are sent by email and phone at 1 and 2 weeks overdue. A bill is emailed at 4 weeks. If a patron has no email or working phone, an overdue notice is sent by U.S. mail at 2 weeks, and a bill is sent at 4 weeks.

If the items are returned, the patron needs only to pay the late charges.

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Municipal Landfill

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1. Does the landfill accept appliances?

No, the landfill does not accept appliances. Contact Balcum Appliance at 715-392-4808 for information on appliance disposal.

2. What can I do with demolition materials?

The landfill does not accept demolition materials. Contact Lakehead Blacktop and Material at 715-392-1989.

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Parks & Recreation

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1. How do I reserve a pavilion at a park?

Reservations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis starting January 2 (or the first working day thereafter) for the calendar year. Call 715-395-7270 to reserve and for fees.

2. How can I get a tree planted on my boulevard?

The City plants trees on boulevards by zone. Each year, if funding is available, the most-needed zone for planting is determined by the Urban Forestry Tree Board. Citizens may plant a tree on their boulevard (purchased by themselves) by obtaining a Tree Planting Permit at no charge. Call 715-395-7270 for information on how to obtain a permit.

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Police Department

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1. When should I call 9-1-1?

Anytime you need assistance from an officer, 9-1-1 should be called. The Communications Center will take your information and have an officer contact you by telephone or in person.

2. How do I obtain officer assistance?

Dial 9-1-1. The Communications Center will take your information and have an officer contact you by telephone or in person.

3. How do I obtain a police report?

A police report can be obtained in person by stopping into our Records Bureau or you may request a report by mail. If you wish to request a report by mail, you must first send payment for the report. For more information, contact our Records Bureau.

4. How do I apply to become a police officer?

For information click here

5. How do I commend an officer or file a complaint?

• Contact any on-duty Supervisor at
1316 N. 14th St., Superior, WI
or by phone: (715) 395-7460
• Write a letter to the Superior Police Department,
in care of the Chief of Police, or call (715) 395-7450
• Email us at: policedept@ci.superior.wi.us

To make a complaint, you may

• Contact any on-duty Supervisor at
1316 North 14th Street,
or by phone: (715) 395-7460
• Write a letter to the Superior Police Department,
in care of the Chief of Police, or call (715) 395-7450
• Contact the Superior Police & Fire Commission, in care of the
City Clerk’s Office, 1316 N. 14th St. Suite 200, Superior, WI 54880
Pick up a complaint information form at the Police Desk.
• Email us at: policedept@ci.superior.wi.us

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Public Works

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1. How can I find out when my trash will be picked up?

Call the Street Department at 715-394-0244 for your pickup day. Please be aware that when there is a holiday, the schedule is accelerated.

2. How can I get a pothole repaired?

To report a pothole click on the following link.Online Pothole Reporting Form



Online pothole reporting form

3. How can I get my alley blacktopped?

Property owners can request that their alley be blacktopped by petition. The blacktop policy and petition is available on the page below. Alley Blacktopping Policy/Petition

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Recycling

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1. Do I have to be home in order to get a new recycling cart?

No, you do not need to be home to for the cart to be delivered.

2. Where does the recycling cart go, at the curb or the alley?

The recycling cart goes next to your trash cart-for most Superior residents, that is in the alley. If you live on one of the streets who still place your trash at the curb, you should also place your recycling cart at the curb.

3. Do I have to sort the recycled materials in the cart?

No. The carts permit a single-stream recycling process. Simply place all of your acceptable recycling materials into the recycling container, including clean glass, cans and plastic, newspapers, paper bags, magazines, cereal boxes and cardboard. DO NOT BAG items with plastic or paper bags, just place materials in the cart. Large pieces of corrugated cardboard should be cut into pieces, flattened, and placed next to the cart if there is not enough room inside.

4. How close together do the trash cart and the recycling cart have to be?

Your recycling cart should be placed three-feet from your trash cart.

5. What if I don’t need such a big cart? What if I need a bigger cart?

You may request either a smaller or larger cart at no charge. Please contact Hartel’s/DBJ Disposal at 218-729-5446 to request an alternate size.

6. What is that number on the side of the cart?

Each cart has a number that corresponds to the home address for tracking purposes.

7. Is recycling mandatory?

Recycling is required by city ordinance and state law, and violators can be fined. Recycling saves precious landfill space and reduces our environmental impact on the planet.

8. When will my recycling be collected?

The collection schedule will remain the same. Recycling is picked up every other week on the same day as the trash is collected.

9. Where do I find the collection schedule for my neighborhood?

The schedule is posted on the recycling information website for the City of Superior and Douglas County at: www.douglascountywi.org/countydepartments/recycling/recycling.htm
You may also call the City at 715-395-1293 or Hartel’s/DBJ Disposal at 218-729-5446.

10. Who is collecting the recycling?

Hartel’s/DBJ Disposal Companies has been in business since 1952 and began collecting recycling in Duluth since 1990. They pledge to increase the number of Superior households that recycle by making the collection process more convenient and user friendly for the customer. Hartel’s/DBJ Disposal Companies can be reached at 218-729-5446, or on the web at www.hartels-dbj.com.

11. Will the trash and the recycling be picked up at the same time?

No. Your recycling will be collected by a different truck than the trash is, but the recycling will be collected on the same day every other week as the trash is collected.

12. Will my garbage pick-up schedule change?

No, your garbage collection will be the same as before.

13. What time does my recycling have to be out in the alley on collection day?

Your recycling cart must be out by 6:00 a.m. or the night before your scheduled pickup day.

14. What do I do with the old recycling bin?

We recommend finding another use for it. The bins cannot be recycled-do not place them in the new recycling cart.

15. I have never put out recycling before, do I have to call to be added to the route?

For most situations, it is not necessary. However, you may call Hartel’s/DBJ Disposal at 218-729-5446 and let them know you are a new recycler; they will be able to help with any question you may have.

16. I don’t have much recycling, can I still use my recycling bin?

Yes, continue to use your recycling bin, but you must contact Hartel’s/DBJ Disposal at 729-5446 to let them know you will be using the bin.

17. Do the bins go in the alley too?

Yes, you should place your recycling in the alley on your normal recycling collection day when the carts are delivered to your area.

18. If I don’t have any recycling and skip putting out the cart, will they drop me from the route?

No. If you skip a pickup day, you will not be dropped from the route.

19. Do I have to sort the cans, glass and plastic bottles?

No, they do not have to be sorted. Cans and bottles should be rinsed clean and all caps and pumps should be removed.

20. What about newspapers and magazines?

Place all your newspapers and magazines, junk mail, phone books, cereal boxes, etc., right inside the cart with the rest of the products. Do not tie newspapers together and do not use plastic bags. NO PLASTIC BAGS WILL BE ACCEPTED.

21. What about aerosol cans?

Empty aerosol cans are recyclable. Remove the plastic tip before placing it in the cart.

22. Can I put my recycling in a plastic bag?

No. No plastic bags will be accepted.

23. Is corrugated cardboard accepted?

Yes. Small cardboard boxes can be flattened and placed in to the recycling cart. If you are recycling a large volume of corrugated cardboard, cut it into pieces, flatten it and place it next to the cart.

24. What if my recycling cart is lost or broken?

It is your responsibility to care for your cart. If your cart is lost, stolen or damaged, it is the responsibility of the resident or tenant using the cart to contact Hartel’s/DBJ Disposal for replacement as soon as possible. A replacement charge could apply.

25. If I move, do I take my cart with me?

No. The cart remains at the address it was assigned to. Do not move the recycling cart to a new address.

26. What items are not recyclable?

Plastic bags, plastic film or wrap, Styrofoam, packing peanuts, light bulbs, mirrors, window glass, ceramics, ovenware, dishes, drinking glasses, scrap metal, plastic or metal hangers, oil/antifreeze containers, no dirty or greasy pizza boxes or round inserts, paper towels, paper plates, scrap wood, or broken glass. Please note: hazardous materials, appliances, tires, used oil, etc., and other prohibited items are not to be placed in the recycling containers and must be properly disposed of. For more information visit the City of Superior/Douglas County recycling information website at: www.douglascountywi.org/countydepartments/recycling/recycling.htm

27. What if I move to a new house and there is no recycling cart?

If the recycling cart is missing, please contact Hartel’s/DBJ Disposal at 218-729-5446 and advise them of the missing cart and request a replacement.

28. How much do the new carts cost?

There is no charge to the resident for the new cart. If you require a replacement cart due to damage you caused, there could be a cost of up to $90.00.

29. Can businesses use the carts too?

Commercial businesses, apartment owners with more than 4 units and non-residential customers should arrange for recycling pick-up services with a licensed contractor. A list can be found in the phone book or at the City of Superior/Douglas County recycling information website: www.douglascountywi.org/countydepartments/recycling/recycling.htm.

30. Where can I find out more information?

Visit Douglas County's website for recycling information and links at: www.douglascountywi.org. Or call 715-395-1293. Hartel’s/DBJ Disposal can be reached at 218-729-5446.