Town of Cary
Home MenuAll Services
Accident Reports
See Accident Reports
Accounting
See Accounting
Adult Sports Leagues
See Adult Sports Leagues
Affordable Housing
Cary is committed to ensuring that a variety of housing options are available throughout the Town to meet the needs of all the diverse households who wish to make their home here in particular, housing for those with special needs, seniors on fixed incomes, and those just starting on the housing ladder. With the adoption of the Cary Community Plan in 2017, the Town reaffirmed its policy of encouraging and supporting the provision of affordable housing, particularly in response to the changing needs of Cary’s families in the coming years.
Alternate Day Watering
When it is time to water, remember to follow the year-round Alternate Day Watering schedule.
Amphitheatre
See Sertoma Amphitheatre, Koka Booth Amphitheatre
Animals, Dead
See Solid Waste Collection. Town crews will pickup animal carcasses found in the street or curbside in a plastic bag. Request collection, or dial 311.
Animals, Rules
See Animal Services or Pets in Cary
Animals, Wild
Sick or injured animals, animals that are treated cruelly, or animals running at large should be reported to Animal Services; also report any animal bites to humans or pets. Do not touch or try to capture any wild animal, especially those that may carry rabies even if you think the animal is dead; instead, report the location of the animal to Animal Services immediately. For help removing or repelling bothersome wild animals not in your living space, such as bats in the attic or raccoons in the garbage, contact a pest control service. Animal Services: (919) 319-4517.
Annexation, Voluntary
Annexation is the process under state law by which property not within a town’s corporate limits may become part of that town. Visit Planning and Development Services, or dial 311 within town limits or (919) 469-4000 outside of Cary.
Applause! Cary Youth Theatre
See Applause!
Appliance Disposal
See Solid Waste Collection
Aquastar
Aquastar is the Cary's advanced meter infrastructure system that uses a wireless system to collect multiple remote meter reads per day. View your hourly, daily, weekly and monthly water consumption data online.
Art, Public
See Public Art
Backwater Valve
The North Carolina Building Code requires you to have a backwater valve if your plumbing fixtures are below the top of the first, upstream manhole on your street. Visit the Backwater Valve page for more.
Ballfield Reservations
The Town of Cary has lighted baseball/softball fields of various sizes available for reservation. Fields may be reserved by groups or individuals March through mid November. Visit the Ballfield Reservations for details and to submit a reservation request.
Bicycling
See Bike Cary
Boards & Commissions
See Boards and Commissions
Boat Rental
Bond Park provides pedal boats, kayaks, canoes, and sailboats for rent. A wide range of classes are also available including sailing, kayaking, and canoeing. Visit the Bond Park Boathouse page for more.
Bonds and Bond Rating
The Town sells bonds to borrow money to help pay for projects such as water and sewer plants, streets, parks, fire trucks, fire stations and other Town government buildings. Borrowing for such projects enables future taxpayers to share the cost. Town of Cary general obligation bonds are rated AAA.
Bond Park
See Fred G. Bond Metro Park
Bond Park Boathouse
See Bond Park Boathouse
Bond Park Community Center
See Bond Park Community Center
Building Permits
See Inspections & Permits
Bulk Reclaimed Water
The Town makes treated wastewater available under certain conditions for non-potable uses such as irrigation. The bulk reclaimed water program lessens the amount of treated wastewater discharged into creeks while reducing the amount of drinking water that is used for irrigation, cooling water and other non-potable uses.
Burning, Outdoor
Any outdoor burning requires a permit issued by the Cary Inspections and Permits Department. Dial 311 within town limits or (919) 469-4000 outside of Cary for more.
Buses
See GoCary.
Calendar
See Calendar
Camps
Cary offers summer, school's out, and track out camps for traditional and year-round calendar students. Visit Camp Information for more.
Car Seat Installations
The Cary Police Department and the Citizens Assisting Police (CAP) organization provide seat checks where certified technicians assist caregivers to select, properly install, and/or use car seats and booster seats.
Cary Actions Sports - Skate, BMX, Scooter
See Cary Actions Sports
Cary Arts Center
See Cary Arts Center
Cary Christmas Parade
The Cary Jaycees present Cary's Christmas Parade very year in early December in downtown Cary.
Cary Community Plan
The Cary 2040 Community Plan consolidates and replaces several individual plans that have guided Cary’s growth over many years. This plan is the result of several years of work, unprecedented community input, and dozens of meetings and workshops. It sets out a long-term vision, policies, and strategic actions with a time horizon out to 2040.
Cary Senior Center
See Cary Senior Center
Cary Tennis Park
See Cary Tennis Park
Cary Theater
See The Cary
Cary TV
See Cary TV
Cemetery, Hillcrest
The Town of Cary owns and maintains Hillcrest Cemetery of over 2400 burial sites and 4.9 acres located at the end of Page Street. It was designated as a Cary historic landmark in 2014. Learn more about Hillcrest Cemetery.
Challenge Course at Bond Park
See Bond Park Challenge Course
Christmas Tree Disposal
See Yard Waste page
Citizen Convenience Center
See Citizens Convenience Center
Citizens Police Academy
The Cary Police Department offers a free 12-week course that allows citizens to become familiar with the operations of the department, including patrol, communications, traffic, animal control, records, recruitment of new officers, and crime prevention.
Citizen Satisfaction Survey
The Town undertakes biennial citizen surveys. Learn more and see results from past surveys.
Claims
See Claims
Community Centers
Cary has four community centers, three cultural arts centers, and a senior center among many other facilities. See Facilities & Venues for a complete list and more information.
Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
The Cary Fire Department offers free training designed to enable citizens to care for themselves and their neighbors during the first three days following a disaster event.
Community Gardens
Cary supports many programs and facilities dedicated to growing vibrant gardens, healthy soil, and engaged communities including the Carpenter Park Community Garden and the Cary Senior Center Community Garden.
Community Watch
See Community Services
Compost
Cary supports composting as a means of valuable waste reduction, water-wise lawn and garden care, and regenerative agriculture. Learn more about the Compost Giveaway Workshops, the Compost Education Center, the Compost Bin Sale, and the Food Waste Drop-off on the Cary Composts page.
Compost Education Center
Discover composting, gardening, native plants, and more at the Compost Education Center in Bond Park. Complete with informational signs and easy-to-access demonstrations, the center is a place you can explore at your own pace.
Concerts
See Events
Cooking Oils and Grease
Cary adopted a Fats, Oils & Grease Control Ordinance in 1998 to curb sewer system overflows from accumulation in lines. The ordinance applies to restaurants and other non-residential facilities where food is prepared or served.
Residents can also help keep sewer lines functioning properly while protecting their plumbing systems from grease accumulation.
Crime Stoppers
See Crime Stoppers
Cross Connection Control
Cary Town Council adopted a Cross Connection Ordinance to ensure the protection of our community’s water system. The Ordinance requires all water system customers to have an approved backflow prevention assembly installed.
Cultural Arts
Whether you are looking to learn a new art technique, find an exciting event to attend, or seeking out new exhibitions, you'll find a variety of cultural offerings throughout Cary.
See Bank Draft
Disabilities, People with
See People with Disabilities
Disc Golf
Cary has two disc golf courses that are each inside a larger park and open for walk-up play - Diavolo at New Hope Disc Golf and Middle Creek Disc Golf Course at Middle Creek School Park. Cary also hosts disc golf programs and two annual disc golf tournaments.
Dog Parks
Cary Dog Parks provide a place for dog owners to let their pets run free safely and legally without a leash. Learn more about the dog parks at Robert V. Godbold Park and Jack Smith Park on the Cary Dog Parks page.
Driveways
When replacing an existing driveway or adding another residential driveway, a permit is required for the work being done in the public right-of-way. Visit Inspections & Permits or dial 311 within town limits or (919) 469-4000 outside of Cary.
Easements
An easement is a legal interest in property for a specific purpose, such as giving a company access to run a telephone line underground. Utility easements that are dedicated to the Town of Cary cover water and/or sanitary sewer lines, and are typically 20 feet wide. All easements and rights-of-way are indicated on property surveys. Homeowners are urged to check their property surveys before adding fences or plants to ensure easements and rights-of-way are kept clear.
For questions about easements, visit the Easements page, dial dial 311 within town limits or (919) 469-4000 outside of Cary, or submit an online 311 request.
Elections
Town of Cary elections are held in odd-numbered years. The mayor and all Council members serve four-year terms. A full list of current Council members and their terms is available from the Wake County Board of Elections website. Our elections are managed by Wake County Board of Elections, Chatham County Board of Elections, and Durham County Board of Elections.
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
The electric vehicle charging stations are a part of Cary's commitment to a sustainable and resilient environment. Find more information including locations here.
Email Subscription
Interested in staying informed about what is happening around Cary? Subscribe to any of the Town's email or SMS lists to receive newsletters, event and program alerts, public notices, and more.
Emergency Information
If you suffer or witness a threat to life or property, dial 911.
During hurricanes, snow storms, and other types of emergencies or crisis that could affect large portions of Cary over extended periods of time, the Town will share information as soon as possible and in several ways. The quickest way for citizens to stay informed is by following Town of Cary on social media including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The Town Website will be updated with emergency banners at the top of every page, and may feature a special page or section dedicated to the particular event or emergency. Be sure to subscribe to town emails to receive communication that way. You may dial 311 during business hours for questions or requests, and outside business hours for recorded messages with updates about the particular event or emergency. Finally, be sure to tune in to local media on TV, online, and through social media for ongoing information and updates.
Employment
See Job Opportunities
Environmental Outreach Programs
Cary offers numerous programs and events throughout the year for you to help keep the environment healthy and beautiful. Programs include Cary Garden for Wildlife, Spruce, Good Hope Farm, Cary It Green, My Tree, Our Tree, Harvest Fest, Farm to Fork Dinner, Garden Workdays, Litter Sweeps, Adopt a Spot, Compost Workshops, and so much more.
Façade Improvement Program
The Façade Improvement Program assists property and business owners within the Town Center Area Plan boundary to undertake storefront or building front improvements. These can range from minor repairs and painting to substantial façade renovations on buildings used for commercial or office purposes.
Facility and Shelter Rentals
See Facility Pages for detailed rental info.
Community Center rentals
Cary Arts Center rentals
Page-Walker Arts & History Center rental
Sertoma Amphitheatre rental
Shelter reservations
Ballfield reservations
Fats, Oils, and Grease
The Fats, Oils and Grease Control program reduces sewer line overflows by regulating what businesses that prepare or serve food discharge into the wastewater system. Residents can also help keep sewer lines functioning properly while protecting their plumbing systems from grease accumulation.
Festivals
Cary has many festivals throughout the year including its two signature Arts and Crafts Festivals: Lazy Daze and Spring Daze, as well as the beloved NC Chinese Lantern Festival. Visit the Events page to learn more about all the festivals and events.
Filming and Photography
In recognition of their potential socioeconomic contributions, Cary welcomes film/video/photography productions in the community. Learn more here.
Financial Report
The Annual Comprehensive Financial Report is the official statement of the Town's financial position on June 30, at the close of the fiscal year. View past reports online or in person at Cary Regional Library.
Fire Hydrants
The Town performs operational tests and system maintenance on all Town of Cary fire hydrants twice each year. The tests serve a dual purpose by assuring adequate fire flow and the flushing of sedimentation from the distribution system. Questions about fire hydrants? Dial 311 in Cary town limits, or (919) 469-4000 when outside town limits, or submit an online request.
Flood Zone and Stormwater
Property owners within floodplains or near flood-prone streams should review the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM). The location of the FEMA floodplain in relation to your property may determine whether flood insurance is required by your lender or be helpful if you choose to purchase flood insurance no matter where you live. Consult your insurance company to see what your options are. Cary has restrictions on development within the floodplain that require a floodplain development permit. Learn more by visiting the Stormwater Management page.
Garbage Pickup
See Garbage Collection
GoCary
GoCary offers two options for transportation in and around Cary: door-to-door services and fixed-route services. GoCary connects to GoTriangle, which provides transportation around the greater Triangle region.
Government Access Channel
Cable Channel 11 is Cary's designated government access channel on Spectrum's system, cablecasting live and taped Town Council meetings, committee and board meetings and other programming about important government news and events.
Greenways & Trails
See Parks, Greenways and Environment
Growth Management Plan
The Cary 2040 Community Plan, adopted January 24, 2017, is the comprehensive plan for the Town of Cary. This plan is the result of several years of work, unprecedented community input, and dozens of meetings and workshops. It sets out a long-term vision, policies, and strategic actions with a time horizon out to 2040.
Hazardous Trees
To report a hazardous tree on public property, submit a report, or dial 311 in Cary town limits, or (919) 469-4000 when outside town limits.
Hazardous Waste Disposal
See Hazardous Waste Disposal
Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve
See Stevens Nature Center at Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve
Herbert C. Young Community Center
See Herbert C. Young Community Center
Hillcrest Cemetery
The Town of Cary owns and maintains Hillcrest Cemetery of over 2400 burial sites and 4.9 acres located at the end of Page Street. It was designated as a Cary historic landmark in 2014. Learn more about Hillcrest Cemetery.
Historic Preservation
See the Historic Preservation Master Plan
The Hive Community Center
See The Hive
Home Businesses
See Home Occupations
Housing Rehabilitation Program
Cary is committed to providing quality housing programs that enhance and strengthen our community. Healthy Homes Cary provides federal funds to assist citizens with home repairs and improvements.
Housing Resources
Cary is committed to providing quality housing programs that enhance and strengthen our community. Visit the Housing page for more.
Irrigation Systems
See Irrigation
Find Job Opportunities and apply.
Koka Booth Amphitheatre
See Koka Booth Amphitheatre
Land Use Plan
The Cary 2040 Community Plan consolidates and replaces several individual plans that have guided Cary’s growth over many years. Land use plans are incorporated into the Cary 2040 Community Plan.
Landfill
See Citizen's Convenience Center
Leaf Collection
Between November and February each year, Cary collects loose leaves three separate times from each street according to a set schedule. Visit the Loose Leaf Collection page to search your address for the scheduled pickup days.
Leash Law
Visit the Animal Services page for information about Pets in Cary, and visit Town of Cary Ordinances for laws governing animals.
Manholes
More than 25,000 sanitary sewer manholes serve as access points to perform routine maintenance and respond to emergencies such as sanitary sewer overflows. Manholes are located in public streets, right-of-ways and on easements. If you see a manhole that needs attention, dial 311 in Cary town limits, or (919) 469-4000 when outside town limits, or submit an online request.
Maps
Interactive and printable maps of on-going development projects, topography, jurisdictions, greenways, parks, sewer lines, subdivisions, water lines, planned roadways, Council districts, zoning, and much more are available.
Medication Disposal
Citizens who need to dispose of expired or unused pills should not throw them in trash cans or flush them down toilets. Unwanted medications should be disposed of at participating locations throughout the Cary area. To search for locations, visit the DEA Diversion Control Division webpage. Pill take-back events, known as "Operation Medicine Drop," are offered in conjunction with the DEA's National Prescription Drug Take Back Days.
Middle Creek Community Center
See Middle Creek Community Center
Oasis
Oasis is a program to help those going through financial hardship with their Cary utility bill. Assistance is provided by way of donations from other utility customers. The program is administered through a partnership between the Town and the Dorcas Ministries Crisis Ministry, a local non-profit organization that helps people in need get back on their feet.
Open Data
Cary's Open Data Portal catalogs various data related to economy and business, environment, education, geography, planning, and much more.
Paint Disposal
Search the Waste Wizard to find out the best way to dispose of paint.
Page-Walker Arts & History Center
Learn more about the history of the Page-Walker, the story of its restoration, the classes, events, concerts, and exhibitions offered, and take a self-guided tour of the facility.
Paper Shredding
Take your old documents and papers for shredding and recycling any day of the week to one of six Cary facilities for shredding.
Parks Locations and Amenities
See a complete list of Cary's more than 30 parks and all the amenities and facilities offered therein.
Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Program Guide
View the most recent program guide online, or look for printed copies of the guide at Cary facilities as well as various locations around Cary. Visit carync.gov/register to register for programs and classes.
Permits
See Business and Development
Pets
See Animal Services or Pets in Cary
Picnic Shelters
Visit the Shelter reservations page. See Facility pages for detailed rental info about additional options.
Play It Forward
Cary believes all citizens should have an equal opportunity to participate in recreation. The Play It Forward scholarship fund allows residents to apply for reduced and/or no-fee Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources programs.
Playgrounds
See Playgrounds in Cary Parks
Potholes
Report Potholes and other damage to by dialing 311 or (919) 469-4000 weekdays between 7 a.m.-7 p.m., or submit a service request. During wet winter weather months, a temporary cold patch will be applied to potholes on Cary-maintained streets by the next business day. Potholes on state-maintained roads in Cary will be reported to the N.C. Department of Transportation. See the Street Maintenance for additional information.
Preschool Activities
Programs for preschoolers are offered at community centers, nature facilities, and cultural arts centers. Check out the Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Program Guide, and register at carync.gov/register.
Pretreatment of Wastewater
Any user of the sanitary sewer collection and treatment system is subject to the Town of Cary Sanitary Sewer Use Ordinance. Institutional food preparation and serving facilities are required to adequately trap and retain fats, oils and greases prior to discharge into the sanitary sewer collection and treatment system. In certain cases, an Industrial Discharge Permit will be required of a user in order to comply with the Sanitary Sewer Use Ordinance. Residential users are asked to consider their own cleaning practices and their impact on the control of greasy wash water, food solids, and oils to the Cary sewer system.
Privilege License
A new or existing business in Cary is not be required to obtain a privilege license in accordance to S.L. 2014-3/House Bill 1050.
Program Guide
Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources programs, events, classes, and facilities are detailed in seasonal guides issued three times a year. Citizens can search and register at carync.gov/register. Hard copies of the guides are available at Town facilities, Cary Libraries, and entryway racks in area grocery stores.
Public Art
Public art is a cultural resource and a source of community pride in Cary. Artworks have been commissioned throughout Cary through the efforts of the Cultural Arts Division of Cary Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Department and local non-profit Cary Visual Art.
Public Hearing Cases
Cary believes an involved citizenry is the hallmark of a strong community and an effective government. There are many opportunities for citizens to get involved in our local government, including the opportunity to participate in public hearings.
Rain Sensors
The goal of Cary's water conservation program is to educate customers on the benefits saving this finite resource. a rain sensor set at a quarter inch is required on all automatic irrigation systems. Visit the Rain Sensor page for more information.
Reclaimed Water
Not all of the ways we use water require treatment to meet drinking water (potable) standards. Reclaimed water is treated wastewater that is used for non-potable purposes such as irrigation.
Recycling
Learn more about curbside recycling, business recycling, and recycling carts; use the Waste Wizard to see what you can recycle and what needs to be tossed in the trash; and find recycling tips on the Recycling page.
Rezoning
A rezoning occurs when a property owner or developer wants to change the use of the property from one use or density to another. See Rezoning for more information.
Ropes Course
The Bond Park Challenge Course is an outdoor learning facility that is more than a recreational experience. Guests engage in a facilitated experience that focuses on teamwork and development. The Challenge Course, while often called a "ropes course," does not always involve ropes, but always involves working with a team to accomplish goals.
School of Government - Now Cary 101
Cary 101 serves as an opportunity for citizens to increase their understanding of how and when the public is involved in Cary's processes and decisions and spur even greater community involvement. Students get a behind-the-scenes look at their local government structure, culture and decision-making.
Scout Projects
Cary is proud to partner with Scouts to complete projects that help them build skills and contribute to the environment in meaningful ways. Learn more here.
Senior Citizen Programs
See Senior Services & Resources
See Senior Recreation
See Cary Senior Center
Sertoma Amphitheatre
Located in Bond Park, Sertoma Amphitheatre accommodates 300 spectators for outdoor performances and events which are held throughout the year. Cary residents may also reserve this facility.
Sewer Maintenance on Main Wastewater Lines
The Town's primary responsibility for the sewer system is to maintain unobstructed wastewater flow in the collection system. To accomplish this, the Town routinely cleans sewer lines and performs preventive maintenance and repairs. If you experience a sewer system backup or observe a clean out or sewer manhole overflowing, please notify the Town of Cary as soon as possible. Dial 311 in Cary town limits, or (919) 469-4000 when outside town limits, or submit an online request.
Sewer Stoppages
The Town's primary responsibility for the sewer system is to maintain unobstructed wastewater flow in the collection system. To accomplish this, the Town routinely cleans sewer lines and performs preventive maintenance and repairs.
If you think a stoppage has occurred, dial 311 or (919) 469-4000, weekdays from 7 a.m.-7 p.m., or (919) 469-4012 after hours and on holidays. Learn more about the process on the Sewer Maintenance page.
Shelter Rental
See Shelter Reservations & Availability information
Sidewalks
Sidewalks reduce pedestrian crashes, increase pedestrian activity, and are key to creating walkable communities. Cary has been designated as a National Walk-Friendly Community. If you have an existing sidewalk that needs repair, dial 311 in Cary town limits, or (919) 469-4000 when outside town limits, or submit an online request.
Signs
See Chapter 9 of the Land Development Ordinance, or the Temporary and Time-Limited Signs information
Smoke Testing
The Town annually performs smoke testing in the sewer system to help locate areas where storm water and other surface waters are entering the system and reveal sources of sewer odors. Visit Smoke Testing to learn more.
Snow and Ice Removal
Visit Winter Weather Information and follow Cary on social media for updates on snow and ice removal during winter storm events.
Solid Waste Collection
See Solid Waste Collection
Speakers
Town government staff are available to speak and give presentations about the work of local government to businesses, civic groups, schools groups, and other organizations. Submit an online request through 311 for assistance.
Special Event Planning
Are you planning a special event? Will it have impacts on traffic? Are you using a space differently than it's built purpose? You may need to get a permit for your event. Visit the Temporary Use Permits page to determine next steps.
Sports
Cary offers youth and adult sports leagues and programs that meet a wide variety of interests and promote health and wellness. Cary is also proud to host a wide variety of athletic special events for spectators and participants.
Spruce
The Spruce program connects community members to one-time volunteer opportunities in waste reduction, beautification, and environmental service in Cary. Request supplies for a litter cleanup, gardening events, or invasive plant removal workday.
Stevens Nature Center at Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve
The Stevens Nature Center provides interactive, educational nature exhibits and historical exhibits from the Piedmont of North Carolina. The nature center also provides nature interpretation and environmental education programs for all ages throughout the year. Beyond educational opportunities, visitors may enjoy walking along more than two miles of scenic trails within the Nature Preserve.
Stormwater Management
Cary Stormwater Division has several programs that include educational and regulatory initiatives to encourage environmentally sound development. Learn more on the Stormwater section of the website.
Street Lights
Progress Energy maintains street lights in Cary. Report outages online or call (800) 419-6356. To request new or upgraded street lights, visit the Street Light Program page to learn more.
Street Maintenance
Report Potholes and other damage to by dialing 311 or (919) 469-4000 weekdays between 7 a.m.-7 p.m., or submit a service request. During wet winter weather months, a temporary cold patch will be applied to potholes on Cary-maintained streets by the next business day. Potholes on state-maintained roads in Cary will be reported to the N.C. Department of Transportation. See the Street Maintenance for additional information.
Missing or broken storm drain or manhole covers should be reported immediately by dialing 311 or (919) 469-4000 weekdays between 7 a.m.-7 p.m., or submit a service request.
Storm Drains
Storm drains located in the curb are designed to quickly remove stormwater from the traffic lane through an underground pipe system. Materials that enter the storm drains, including litter and other pollutants, go directly to area streams and not to one of Cary's wastewater treatment facilities. See the Storm Drains section on the Street Maintenance page. You can also learn about the Storm Drain Labeling Project.
Missing and broken storm drain covers or manhole covers should be reported immediately by dialing 311 or (919) 469-4000 weekdays between 7 a.m.-7 p.m., or submit a service request.
Summer Camp
Cary offers summer, school's out, and track out camps for traditional and year-round calendar students. Visit Camp Information for more.
Surplus Equipment
Surplus equipment typically includes cars, trucks, heavy equipment and miscellaneous small items the Town no longer needs or uses.
Sustainability
A healthy environment fosters livable spaces, provides clean and cool air, increases property values, decreases energy costs, reduces flooding, combats climate change, builds resiliency and creates connections between citizens and the outdoor world. Learn about Cary's commitment to a sustainable and resilient future.
Tall Grass/Weeds Regulation
Grass, weeds and undergrowth on any property in the Town should not exceed a height of eight inches. For more information on Tall Grass, see the Planning and Development FAQ.
Taxes and Assessments
Wake County handles all assessment, valuation, billing, and collection of property taxes for the Town of Cary. The Town is a satellite office for Wake County property tax collection which means that the Town of Cary is able to collect the exact amount that is printed on the bill. However, if problems exist or questions arise, they must be handled through the Wake County tax office. Wake County's automated phone system may be reached at (919) 856-5400, or visit the Wake County website.
Teen Activities
The Cary Teen Council is a volunteer organization that empowers teens with the core values of leadership, accountability, and a heart for service. New member registration occurs annually in late summer. Programs, activities, and classes for teens may be found in the Program Guide and on carync.gov/register.
Tennis
Lighted tennis courts are available at Dunham Park, Annie Jones Park, Godbold Park, Middle Creek Park, and the Cary Tennis Park. Tennis lessons and tournaments are offered throughout the year for youth and adults. Details can be found in the Program Guide and on carync.gov/register.
Tents
All tents used for the purpose of assembly having a canopy larger than 800 square feet and/or are equipped with one or more side panels(s) are required to be permitted by the Cary Fire Department. View the Permit Application.
Town Council
Under its council-manager form of administration, the citizens of Cary elect a seven-member Town Council, including the mayor. Four of the seven Council members are district representatives chosen by voters within each geographic district. Two council members and the mayor are at-large representatives elected Town-wide.
Town Council Meetings
The Cary Town Council meets on the second and fourth Thursday at 6:30 p.m. Citizens are invited to attend. The meeting agenda is published by the previous Friday at 5:00 p.m. In addition to the agenda items, anyone may speak on any item not on the agenda during the "Public Speaks Out" portion of the meeting. The meetings are televised live and rebroadcast on cable channel 11; streamed on Cary social media channels; and available on Cary's YouTube channel.
Traffic Calming
Traffic calming enhances the livability of our neighborhood streets by reducing vehicle speeds and/or volumes through the use of devices that have demonstrated an ability to produce desired results. Learn more about traffic calming projects on the Traffic Calming page.
Traffic Signals
The Town Council budgets annually for new or upgraded traffic signals in response to numerous requests from developers, governmental officials and other citizens. Learn more about traffic signal projects on the Traffic Signals page.
Transportation Services
GoCary offers two options for transportation in and around Cary: door-to-door services and fixed-route services. GoCary connects to GoTriangle, which provides transportation around the greater Triangle region.
Trash Pick-Up
See Garbage, Recycling & Yard Waste
USA Baseball National Training Complex
See USA Baseball National Training Complex
Utility Bill Payment Options
See Utility Bill Payment Options
Utility Easement Clearing and Mowing
To protect our public health and environment, Town of Cary periodically clears easements of trees and re-growth to prevent tree root penetration into sewer lines which cause sewer blockages and sewer overflows. To learn more about the process, visit the Easement Maintenance page.
Utility Line Locating
The Town of Cary is responsible for locating and marking Town-owned utilities. The locators are the Town's representatives to North Carolina One Call service, a statewide organization of utility owners. The town's utility locators respond to request tickets that are generated by the NC One Call service. Persons needing utility locates should call (800) 632-4949.
Utility Service
Visit Utility Account Services to start or transfer Utility services, and to learn about payment options, what your rate covers, and service interruption.
Vehicle License Fees
The fee is included with your vehicle tax bill. Billing and payment accompanies property taxes. No sticker or decal is required.
Vendors
Competitive bidding practices are used as required by North Carolina General Statutes and Town of Cary policies and procedures to ensure that the best value in goods and services is obtained through open vendor competition. In addition, the Town participates in programs that allow the opportunity to purchase under NC contracts and in cooperative agreements with other governmental units. Visit the Bids & Proposals and Business Opportunities pages to learn more.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers help make it possible for the Town to provide many different programs and services to citizens of Cary and the surrounding communities. There are many ways you can serve. Learn more on the Volunteer page.
WakeMed Soccer Park
See WakeMed Soccer Park
Water Bills
See Utility Account Services
Water Conservation
Cary has developed a water conservation and demand management program with the goal to decrease the average annual per capita usage of potable water. The program includes a mixture of educational, financial, and regulatory initiatives to encourage water conserving practices where consistent with the overall mission and values of the Town of Cary. Learn more by visiting the following pages: Water Conservation, Water Education, Fix A Leak, and Irrigation.
Water Disinfection
In accordance with state and federal regulations, the Cary/Apex Water Treatment Facility each March temporarily stops adding ammonia to its water treatment disinfection process. Learn more on the Annual Water Disinfection Change page. For questions, dial 311 in Cary town limits, or (919) 469-4000 when outside town limits, or submit an online request.
Water Quality
See the Drinking Water Detailed Report and the Annual Water Quality Report to learn about Cary's efforts to ensure the highest quality water for its citizens.
Water Leaks
The Town routinely surveys 50-75 miles of the water distribution system per month with electronic listening devices to minimize loss from the water system. The Town schedules system repairs as leaks are discovered. Citizens are encouraged to report all system leaks as soon as possible. Dial 311 in Cary town limits, or (919) 469-4000 when outside town limits, or submit an online request.
Visit the Fix a Leak page to learn more about what to do when you experience a water leak inside a home or business.
Water Meters
The Town of Cary installs and maintains all water meters and related appurtenances for residential and commercial sites within Town limits. Visit the Water services page for more.
Watering Schedule
When it is time to water, remember to follow the year-round Alternate Day Watering schedule.
Yard Sale Signs
See Chapter 9 of the Land Development Ordinance, or the Temporary and Time-Limited Signs information
Yard Waste
Residential yard waste resulting from landscaping includes grass clippings, brush, leaves and limbs, and is collected at the curb on your regular garbage collection day. Between November and February each year, Cary collects loose leaves three separate times from each street according to a set schedule. Visit the Loose Leaf Collection page to search your address for the scheduled pickup days.
Youth
Programs for youth from preschool age through age 18 are offered at community centers, nature facilities, and cultural arts centers. View the most recent program guide online, or look for printed copies of the guide at Cary facilities as well as various locations around Cary. Visit carync.gov/register to register for programs and classes. Cary also offers summer, school's out, and track out camps for traditional and year-round calendar students. Visit Camp Information for more.
Zoning Map
See Cary maps
Zoning Violations
Any property which does not comply with the Town's zoning regulations may be in violation. If a property is determined to be in violation, notification will be sent by the Town to identify what action will be necessary in order to comply with Town Code. Learn more on the Zoning Compliance page.
Online services provide more ways to connect with the Town of Cary from your home or office. Watch or listen to meetings and special events. Sign up for news of Town happenings, see maps or review your utility account information whenever it's convenient.
Aquastar - view your hourly, daily, weekly and monthly water consumption data online
311 - the easy way to make a non-emergency request for service or have general questions answered
Waste Wizard - search trash/recycling collection days, search recyclables, search yard waste options
RecTrac (Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources)
Police-to-Citizen Online Police Reports