Below you will find information that might help you understand how to find things or learn about information you might need to know about your city or town.
Yes, if you are a resident of Temple Terrace (supplies may be limited). Submit a smoke alarm install request and a member of our Risk Reduction Division will contact you to schedule a time to install the smoke alarms. You may contact our Risk Reduction Division for more details at 813-506-6693.
No. The Fire Department does not offer car seats. If you need a car seat, please reach out to St. Joseph’s Children’s Wellness & Safety Center at (813) 615-0589 to register for a car seat. If you do have a car seat but need it installed correctly or inspected to ensure that it meets the appropriate standards of the law, contact (813) 443-3074 or click here for Car Seat Classes.
The Children’s Board Family Resource Centers are located throughout Hillsborough County and offer programs and services to help you obtain car seats and more. They are also connected with St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital. See their locations here.
We utilize a priority dispatch system, meaning that the type of call we receive dictates the number of Firefighters and Apparatus that respond. Depending on the severity of the incident, some calls only warrant a Rescue (Ambulance), while others require both a Rescue and Engine. There only are 2 Firefighter/Paramedics on each Rescue Apparatus, so if additional Firefighter/Paramedics or equipment are needed, the Fire Truck will be dispatched to assist. Our Fire Trucks carry the same medical equipment as the Rescue Units and are staffed with certified Paramedics.
For a commercial inspection call (813) 506-6693.
For a residential rental housing inspection call (813) 506-6690.
You can submit a Knox Box application. Knox Boxes are issued on an as needed basis while supplies are available. This is a loaner program and we ask for the box back when the resident no longer needs the box.
No. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has installed permanent drug drop-off boxes at five patrol district offices. Citizens are now able to properly dispose of unwanted, unnecessary and expired prescriptions, as well as over-the-counter medicines and veterinarian prescriptions. The drop off boxes are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. See the locations here. ** Most pharmacies, doctors’ offices, and sanitation departments will not accept prescription drugs. **
No. The fire department will not remove an emergency vehicle from service to fill a swimming pool. Please contact a pool professional.
No. If you need to dispose of an extinguisher, refer to this list of Hillsborough Hazardous Waste Drop Off Locations.
Call (813) 506-6700 for more information.
Yes.
Open burns are permitted providing they meet the proper criteria. You can submit a burn permit for approval or contact our Risk Reduction Division at 813-506-6692 for additional information.
The Temple Terrace Family Recreation Complex is a membership-based facility. A valid membership is required to access all pool areas. For membership rates and information, please call the Family Recreation Complex at 813-506-6600. Memberships can be purchased at the front desk.
Hours of Operation:
• Monday – Friday: 8am – 8pm
• Saturday & Sunday: 8am - 5pm
Guest passes are available to adult members who wish to bring guests. Guest admission is at the discretion of the Parks and Recreation Division.
Guests must be accompanied by an adult member at all times.
Guests are required to show a valid ID and complete a waiver.
A maximum of 5 guests per family membership and 2 guests per individual membership is allowed per day.
Minor members (17 and under) are not permitted to bring guests without an accompanying adult member.
Children under 12 months are admitted free of charge.
Guest Fees:
Adults: $10
Children (17 and under): $8
To verify residency, please provide one of the following documents showing your name and current address:
Utility bill
Vehicle registration
Credit card statement
We accept the following payment methods:
Cash
Check
All major credit cards (excluding American Express)
A Boil Water Notice is issued to protect public health when conditions occur that could affect drinking water quality. The following questions and answers explain what a Boil Water Notice means, why it is issued, and what actions residents and businesses should take.
What is a Boil Water Notice?
A Boil Water Notice means that tap water should not be used for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, making ice, or preparing food unless it has been boiled first. The notice is typically issued as a precaution until water quality testing confirms the water is safe to consume.
Why did the City of Temple Terrace issue a Boil Water Notice?
Boil Water Notices are usually issued due to a loss of water pressure, a water main break, system maintenance, power outages, or other events that could allow contaminants to enter the water system. A notice does not necessarily mean contamination has occurred.
What areas are affected by the Boil Water Notice?
The official notice will identify the specific streets, neighborhoods, or service areas affected, along with the date and time the notice was issued.
How long will the Boil Water Notice remain in effect?
The notice will remain in effect until repairs are completed, water pressure is fully restored, and laboratory testing confirms the water meets all state and federal safety standards. This process typically takes 24 to 72 hours but may take longer depending on the situation.
How will I know when the Boil Water Notice is lifted?
The City of Temple Terrace will issue an official rescind notice through its website, email or text alerts, social media, and other communication channels once the water is confirmed safe to drink.
What should I do during a Boil Water Notice?
Use boiled or bottled water for all drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, making ice, washing fruits and vegetables, and preparing baby formula. Tap water should be brought to a rolling boil for at least one (1) full minute and allowed to cool before use.
How does boiling water make it safe?
Boiling kills disease-causing bacteria, viruses, and parasites by exposing them to high temperatures. Boiling does not remove chemical contaminants, but it is effective for eliminating microbial risks.
How long should I boil my water?
Water should be boiled vigorously for at least one (1) full minute. After boiling, allow it to cool and store it in clean, covered containers.
Can I wash my hands using tap water?
Yes. Washing hands with soap and tap water is safe. Take care not to swallow the water, especially before food preparation.
Can I shower or bathe during a Boil Water Notice?
Yes. Showering and bathing are allowed as long as you avoid swallowing water. Parents may wish to supervise young children, and individuals with open wounds or weakened immune systems may consider using boiled water.
Can I brush my teeth with tap water?
No. You should use boiled or bottled water to brush your teeth during a Boil Water Notice.
Can I use my dishwasher?
Dishwashers may be used only if they have a sanitizing cycle that reaches high temperatures. Otherwise, dishes should be washed by hand using boiled or bottled water.
Can I use my ice maker?
No. Turn off automatic ice makers and discard any ice made during the Boil Water Notice. Once the notice is lifted, flush the system and replace ice.
Can I make coffee, tea, baby formula, or juice with tap water?
No. Any water used for beverages or food preparation must be boiled first or replaced with bottled water.
Do water filters make the water safe to drink?
No. Most household water filters, including refrigerator and pitcher filters, are not designed to remove bacteria or pathogens and do not replace boiling or bottled water during a Boil Water Notice.
Is it safe to give tap water to pets?
No. Pets can also be affected by waterborne germs. Provide pets with boiled or bottled water while the notice is in effect.
Can I do laundry during a Boil Water Notice?
Yes. Laundry can be washed safely using tap water.
Can I water my lawn or plants?
Yes. Tap water is safe for outdoor irrigation and plants.
Can I fill my swimming pool during a Boil Water Notice?
Yes. Pool filling is allowed; however, pool water should not be used for drinking or food preparation.
What should I do after the Boil Water Notice is lifted?
Once the notice is lifted, residents should run cold water faucets for several minutes, discard and remake ice, flush ice makers and water dispensers, and resume normal water use.
What if I drank the water before I knew about the Boil Water Notice?
A Boil Water Notice is issued as a precaution. The risk of illness is generally low. If you experience symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or cramps, contact your healthcare provider.
Who can I contact for more information?
For questions or updates, contact the City of Temple Terrace Public Works Department 813-506-6574.
Hillsborough County residents may get a library card by providing picture ID, proof of address and a completed application. Applications are located at the circulation desk. Cards for children under 17 will require a parent or legal guardian's signature.
Yes, we now how a self service public fax.
Yes, the first $.50 of printing, per day, is free. After that printing is $.05 per page for black & white and $.10 per page for color.
The district encompasses the boundaries of the entire City of Temple Terrace.
The purpose of the MTD is to provide a safe and attractive environment for pedestrians and bicyclists, with convenient access to enhanced transit service and secondary emphasis on auto-oriented improvements.
You have two options for scheduling inspections, either by phone or online. A phone line (813-506-6464) is dedicated to scheduling inspections. Requests made prior to 8 am on the current business day will be scheduled for that day. Requests made after 8 am will be scheduled for the the following business day. To schedule an online inspection go to link below and follow the instructions. Permits must be posted, and access to the work is required for inspectors to conduct their inspection. Specific times are typically difficult to accomplish. If this is absolutely necessary, the permit holder can contact our office at (813) 506-6473 the morning of the scheduled inspection, and our inspectors will make every effort to accommodate the requested time.
The City Clerk is the custodian of public records in Temple Terrace. To make a public records request, please contact the City Clerk's Office.
The Utility Billing Department is open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (813) 506-6420. Utility Billing is located on the first floor of City Hall.
To report a violation of city code, contact our Code Compliance Department at (813) 506-6680 or follow this link to report a code violation online. In accordance with the Sunshine Law, all complaints are public record including the person's name filing the complaint.
To apply for a Temple Terrace recreation membership, call (813) 506-6600 or visit the Family Recreation Complex, 6610 Whiteway Drive. For more information, click here.
*Residents can call a new phone line that connects callers to a recorded message of important City news and alerts. The message will be updated by the City’s Marketing and Communications Officer as needed. (Note that the line will not be staffed, nor will there be an option to leave a message.) Dial 813.506.6644 to hear the message.
A switch to a semi-automated trash collection system in the City of Temple Terrace is long overdue. The vast majority of communities in the Tampa Bay region and, indeed, in the country have already made the transition. The new system has been shown to save time as well as reduce the possibility of injury to the sanitation crews. In addition, the uniform look of the carts will contribute greatly to the aesthetics on City streets, even on trash days. In addition, the lids attached to the carts will close after being serviced, unlike loose lids which often end up clogging storm drains.
The cost to retrofit the residential sanitation fleet with cart tippers will cost $68,322, the expenditure for which was approved on August 4, 2020 by the City Council. The cost of the carts is $300,000 and will be paid for using funds originally designated for a new garbage truck in the 2020-’21 City budget. These carts come with a 10 year warranty-under normal use conditions.
No. The switch to semi-automation will not result in an increase in fees.
The Riverside Park Design & Engineering project will develop approximately 9-acres of property in the City’s CRA district including an undeveloped riverfront parcel, existing riverfront city park, and greenspace surrounding a stormwater pond. Improvements will focus on enhancing community connectivity, better utilizing green space, and adding outdoor amenities. Located on South Riverhills Drive, Riverside Park is an active park with natural amenities, including native plants, mature tree canopies, wetland areas, and the Hillsborough River. Through the park improvements, these natural assets will be become central features of the design for the public to enjoy.
The Riverside Park Design & Engineering project will improve pedestrian walkability and connectivity as well as the use of public spaces, which are both are goals of the Pedestrian Master Plan. In addition, the new signage will complement other branded City of Temple Terrace signage, adding to the sense of place.
Based on early public input, the Riverside Park Design and Engineering project will add active recreational spaces, such as connected pedestrian walking paths, , boardwalks, and a kayak launch and pier. In addition, community gathering spaces, including a large pavilion, picnic shelters and an observation tower overlooking the Hillsborough River, will offer tranquil areas to sit and enjoy the park.
Yes. Two of Riverside Park’s beloved landmarks, the Angel of Hope Memorial and playground, will remain and become integrated in the new park design.
The design of the Riverside Park Design & Engineering project will cost approximately $500,000 and is currently being funded through the City of Temple Terrace Community Investment Tax funds and the tax increment financing fund. The total cost for construction is estimated to be between $4 - $5 million to be funding through a variety of sources including TIF funds, unassigned fund balances, and Community Investment Tax. The project may also be eligible for federal and state grant funding, which if received, would help offset costs.
The Riverside Park Design & Engineering project will include several park improvements that are environmentally friendly and sustainable. The project will incorporate Florida-friendly plants that will attract wildlife and pollinators while removing invasive plants to improve wildlife habitats. Preservation of existing habitats and natural features will be another priority. Maintaining mature tree canopies and minimizing wetland impacts through environmentally sensitive design solutions not only promotes sustainability but also enhances the connection between nature and the park user experience.
Incorporating low-maintenance natural features will reduce the amount of upkeep required for the park’s landscape.
Construction on the Riverside Park Design & Engineering project is expected to begin in 2026. Based on pending permits and the bidding process for construction activities, the timeline may shift. As the project team continues to move through the design phase and a contractor is selected for construction activities, additional information will be available on the project timeline.
The goal is to keep the existing park open during most of the construction. Only areas where there is active construction will be closed.
The park redevelopment project is in the early design phase. As the park project advances, key milestones will be shared with the community.
Pending approval of any necessary permits or regulatory permissions, proposed design features along the Hillsborough River include a kayak launch and pier, observation tower and boardwalk connecting the elements.
The Riverside Park Design & Engineering project will include a paved parking lot for visitors. The project team is currently working with the City of Temple Terrace on design updates that will be presented during the City Council meeting April 1st, 2025.
Safety is a top priority for the City of Temple Terrace. The park's design will incorporate clear sightlines, lighting, a gated parking lot, coordination with the City Police Department, and additional security measures to provide a safe environment for park visitors. Additionally, two elevated pedestrian crosswalks and other traffic-calming features will be included to improve safety and accessibility.
To preserve and enhance the park’s natural features, the project team conducted several environmental assessments. Studies to date include surveys of the park boundaries, a tree inventory and assessment, and an environmental site analysis of wetland areas and potential impacts. The park wetlands are within the Hillsborough River Reservoir. The water levels within the reservoir are controlled by the Tampa Bypass Canal, and the Dam at Rowlett Park which prevent most flooding and major water level fluctuations. Seasonal High-Water Lines collected on site were consistent and with no indications of major flooding incidents.
Fortunately, Riverside Park experienced minimal impacts from this year’s hurricanes. From the tree survey completed by the City Arborist, several trees were damaged and had to be removed. The park wetlands are within the Hillsborough River Reservoir. The water levels within the reservoir are controlled by the Tampa Bypass Canal, and the Dam at Rowlett Park which prevent most flooding and major water level fluctuations. Seasonal High-Water Lines collected on site were consistent and with no indications of major flooding incidents.
The City of Temple Terrace hosted a public meeting in January 2025. The purpose of the meeting was to share information and provide updates to the community during the design phase of the Riverside Park Design & Engineering project. The project team solicited input on key components of the park design during the public meetings, as well as through an online survey. Community members were invited to provide input on new park amenities. Current project information is and will continue to be posted on the City of Temple Terrace’s website and social media channels.
The community had the opportunity to review conceptional design plans for the Riverside Park improvements and shared feedback on the layout and location of proposed features, such as walking trails, kayak launch and pier. All input shared with the design team was considered in the development of the conceptual design plans that will be shared during the City Council meeting April 1st, 2025.
Information on the Riverside Park Design & Engineering project is available on the City of Temple Terrace’s website at Riverside Park Design & Engineering project. If you have questions about the project, please contact Karl Langefeld at KLangefeld@templeterrace.gov or 813-506-6610.