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Front Desk Frequently Asked Questions

Animal Control
Assessor
City Clerk
City Hall
Department of Public Services
Engineering and Building
Municipal Services
Public Safety
Treasury

Animal Control

Q: What do I do if I find a cat or dog?
A: If you should find an animal, you may contact animal control to pick up the animal. Domesticated animals will be picked up by our department. You may call us at 734-324-4445. Requests after 5:00 pm may be directed to the Wyandotte Police Department non emergency number at 734-324-4405.

Q: What do I do if a squirrel, opossum, raccoon, or other animal gets into my home?
A: Traps are available to capture non-domesticated animals. Please contact the Wyandotte Animal Control at 734-324-4445 or 734-324-4405 (after 5:00 pm) to obtain a trap. Once the animal is successfully trapped, you must contact Animal Control, once again to pick up the trapped animal.

Assessor

Property Values and General Assessment Questions

Q: Property values in my neighborhood have been decreasing, will my property valuation be decreasing as well?
A: Unfortunately, there isn’t a yes or no answer to that question. If you’ve owned your property for a significant amount of time, more than likely your State Equalized Value (SEV) far exceeds your Taxable Value. If this is the case, a decrease in valuation, caused by a slow real estate market, will be reflected in the SEV. The taxable value is required by the Michigan Constitution to increase each year by the rate of inflation or 5%, whichever is lower. In the case of a longtime property owner, the SEV could decrease, while the Taxable Value will continue to increase.

Q: If the SEV decreases, will I pay more or less in property taxes?
A: Your property taxes are based on the Taxable Value, rather than the SEV. So, in the previous scenario you would pay more in taxes even though your SEV decreased.

Q: Why won’t my taxes decrease if my property value is going down?
A: Proposal A allowed residents to pay property taxes on less than half of their market value by "capping" the Taxable Value, while still allowing the assessor to determine the market value by adjusting the SEV. This has caused, for many long-time property owners, a great disparity between the SEV figure and the Taxable Value figure. The assessor can reduce the SEV to reflect the change in property value, but if the Taxable Value is still well below the SEV, it will keep increasing until the two figures meet. Since property taxes are based on Taxable Value, you end up paying more in taxes.

Q: Will my taxes ever go down?
A: If a property’s SEV decreases each year, it will eventually meet the Taxable Value. The law states that the Taxable Value can be equal to, but cannot exceed the SEV. So, when this happens, a decrease in SEV will cause decreases in Taxable Value, which in turn lowers your property tax bill. Due to the gap between the SEV and the Taxable Value figures, it would take several years of depressed market conditions to make the SEV and Taxable Value equal. If you happen to be a property owner who purchased a property in the last few years and you have decreasing property value, the SEV and Taxable Value figures could meet sooner than someone who has owned the property for a long period of time.

Q: Why isn’t my new assessment 50% of my purchase price?
The simple answer is that it is against the law. MCL 211.27 states that the purchase price is no longer the presumptive True Cash Value of a property. The assessment may be close to 50% of the purchase price but it is determined by investigating the other sales in the area of the property and all of the SEV are set using that sales study.

Q: Can I appeal my assessment, and when?
By law, the only time you may appeal your assessment is when? After you receive the Change of Assessment notice you may file a petition to make an appointment. Please see Board of Reviews FAQ’s or visit the BOARD OF REVIEWS page for more information.

Board of Reviews

Q: What are the responsibilities of the Board of Review?
A: The Assessor turns the assessment roll over to the Board of Review, who can increase or decrease any improper assessment. The Board has no control over millage rates for property taxes.

Q: Who are the members of the Board of Review?
A: Charters vary regarding membership. According to The Wyandotte City Charter of 1926 the members of the board are: The Mayor, City Assessor, City Clerk, City Treasurer and the City Attorney.

Q: When does the board meet?
A: Per the Wyandotte City Charter of 1926, the board meets on the 3rd Tuesday of the month of February

Q: Are the meetings open to the public?
A: Yes, the public and members of the press are welcome to attend the meetings.

Q: Who may file an appeal?
A: Any person may file an appeal regarding their assessment of the property they own within the board’s jurisdiction. By law, non-resident property owners can appeal by letter. Residents who are unable to attend in person may appeal by letter. A designated agent may also be appointed to appeal on the behalf of the property owner, with proper documentation.

Q: How can I make an effective appeal of value?
A: The taxpayer must give evidence to show that the assessment is incorrect. The Board of Review needs viable reason to alter an assessment. Be prepared to answer the following questions: “What do you think your property is worth?” and “What are you basing that opinion on?”

All assessments are based on the sale of similar properties. You may hire a professional appraiser, use a recent appraisal (within one year of the assessment you are appealing) or you can research sales in your community and compare them to your home. The assessor’s office may provide you with current sales information. All research must be performed by the property owner.

Q: How can I review and compare sales?
A: You should look for similar properties with like features. For example: Your neighbor’s home sold for $100,000. and is identical in nature to your property with the exception of a garage you may subtract or add $6,000 to $8,000 from the assessment.

Q: Are the Board of Review decisions permanent?
A. No. The decisions are only binding for the current tax assessment year.

Q: When will I be informed of the board’s decision?
A: The Board of Review will not give you an immediate decision. You will be notified in writing as soon as possible, and given information regarding the appeal process.

Q: May I protest the decision?
A: The Board of Review functions in many ways like a court although its procedures are less formal. It is similar to a court decision in that it has the authority to decide on certain issues based on evidence. In deciding whether to appeal your assessment to the Board of Review, you should first answer these two questions:
1. Does your protest involve an issue that the Board of Review has authority to make a decision?
2. Do you have supporting evidence?

Q: How should I present my protest?
A: If you are protesting on the value of your property, you should be prepared to justify why your property would not sell for twice the assessed value. If you are appealing based on hardship, documentation will be necessary. Please obtain and complete the necessary documentation before proceeding to the Board of Review. The more information that you are able to provide to the board, the more informed they will be in making a fair determination

Common Assessment Terms

Q. What is Market Value?
A: The market value of your property is simply the probable price that it would sell for in an arm's length transaction between a willing buyer and a willing seller. In Michigan, market value is defined as "true cash value." This is the valuation process because the market value of almost everything changes from one year to the next. Every assessor is required by state law to assess at 50% of true cash value all assessable property as of December 31. This includes homes, factories, commercial properties, vacant land, and personal property (machinery, equipment, furniture, fixtures, signs, etc. for commercial and industrial properties).

Q: What is a State Equalized Value?
A: State Equalized Value equals 50% of Market Value or True Cash Value.

Q: What is the formula for Capped Value?
A: Information about Capped Value can be found in the document Understanding Proposal A In a Declining Market which can be found by clicking here.

Q: What is Taxable Value?
A: Information about Taxable Value can be found in the document The Assessment Cap…What it Means to You which can be found by clicking here.

Back to top of pageCity Hall

Q: When are City Offices open?
A: City offices are open 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, with the exception of the following holidays:

New Years Day, President’s Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, General and Presidential Election Days, Presidential Election Day, Thanksgiving Day, The day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve.

Q. How do I contact someone at the City of Wyandotte?
A. You may visit the following link for the individual City Department’s contact information.

Q: Where is City Hall located?
A: Wyandotte City Hall is located at 3131 Biddle Avenue, Wyandotte, Michigan 48192. For driving directions, click here.

Back to top of pageCity Clerk

Records

Q: How can I obtain a birth, death or marriage certificate?
A: The City of Wyandotte only maintains records of births and deaths that occurred in the city. More information and forms are available at the City Clerk’s webpage. The City of Wyandotte does not maintain records of marriages. Marriage certificates must be obtained from the County Clerk’s office in which the marriage was performed. For marriages that took place in Wayne County, you may visit the Wayne County website for more information on how to obtain a marriage license.

Q: How do I get a copy of the City Council, Zoning Board, Municipal Service Commission, Planning Commission DDA meeting minutes, or other board or commission meeting minutes?
A: City Council meeting minutes from April 25th, 2005 to date are available for download online by visiting this link. Council meeting minutes prior to this date are available upon request from the Office of the City Clerk. Meeting minutes from the Zoning Board, Municipal Service Commission, Planning Commission and the DDA are available for download online beginning January 2009. Minutes prior to this date, or minutes from other boards or commissions, are available upon request from the specific commissions.

Council Meeting Protocol

Q: When are City Council meetings?
A: City Council meetings are held every Monday at 7:00 pm, with the exception of Holidays, and certain Holiday weeks. A current schedule of meetings may be found at the following link.

Q: Where are City Council meetings?
A: City Council meetings take place in Council Chambers on the second floor of Wyandotte City Hall, 3131 Biddle Avenue, Wyandotte, Michigan 48192.

Q: How do I get an item placed on the agenda for the City Council meeting?
A: You must submit a request in writing to the clerk’s office to be placed on the agenda. In order to be placed on the agenda, your request must be received no later than 4:30 p.m. the Thursday prior to the Monday Meeting. Requests and all supporting documentation must be submitted along with the request to the Office of the City Clerk.

Q: How can I find out if I was placed on the agenda?
A: Printed copies of the City Council Meeting Agenda are available on the Clerk’s Front Counter by 12:00 noon on the Friday before the meeting. City Council Agendas may also be found online.

Q: Am I allowed to address the Mayor and Council without being placed on the agenda?
A: All citizens are permitted to address the Mayor and Council during the ‘public comments’ portion of the meeting. Please be advised that when you approach the podium that you will be asked to state your name and address for public record. For more information regarding Council Meeting Protocol, please visit the following link.

Voting

Q: How do I register to vote?
A: Voter registration information may be found by visiting the City Clerk’s webpage.

Q: What are the requirements to register to vote?
A: The requirements are as follows: 1. You must be a citizen of the United States. 2. You must be a resident of the State of Michigan and will be at least a 30 day resident of the City by Election Day. 3. You must be at least 18 years of age by Election Day.

Q: How do I obtain an absentee ballot to vote?
A: Absentee ballot information may be found by visiting the City Clerk’s webpage.

Q: Where can I vote?
A: The District Map & Polling precinct addresses & directions may be found by visiting the City Clerk’s webpage.

Back to top of pageDepartment of Public Service

Garbage Collection & Recycling

Q: How do I sign up for garbage service?
A: The City contracts with Waste Management for all curbside residential service within the city limits. When you sign up for water & sewer service, you are automatically scheduled to receive this service.

Q: What types of items will sanitation workers collect curbside?
A: You may refer to the Department of Public Works webpage for information regarding the types of items that will or will not be collected curbside.

Q: I would like to subscribe to curbside recycling. How can I get a recycle bin?
A: You may subscribe to curbside recycling by contacting Waste Management directly 866-797-9018  or you may visit their website.

Q: I have lost my recycle bin. How can I get a new one?
A: You must contact Waste Management directly 866-797-9018  or you may visit their website.

Q: How do I dispose of unused medication?
A: The Wayne County Land Resource Management Division also has information on disposal of prescription medication. You may visit their site at Wayne County Land Resource Management Division website.

Q: How do I dispose of electronics and computers?
A: The Wayne County Land Resource Management Division also has information on disposal of electronics and computers. You may visit their site at Wayne County Land Resource Management Division website.

Q: How do I dispose of used syringes?
A: You may dispose of used syringes in your trash, provided that they are sealed in a puncture-proof container. For the safety of our sanitation users, please do not use milk jugs or water bottles. We recommend that you use plastic laundry soap bottles instead.

Q: My pet died, can I dispose of it in the trash?
A: No. Please contact your veterinarian or Wyandotte Animal Control at 734-324-4445 for more information on disposal.

Q: My pet died, can I bury it in my yard?
A: No. Please contact your veterinarian or Wyandotte Animal Control at 734-324-4445 for more information on disposal.

Downed Power Lines

Q: What do I do in the event of a downed power line?
A: If you see a downed power line: Stay away from the lines, and keep children and pets inside. Assume that all downed power lines are energized and stay away. Report the downed lines at 734-324-7190. If you think the downed lines pose an immediate hazard to the public, call 911.

Fallen Trees

Q: Due to the recent storm, I have a lot of storm damage from my trees. Will the city pick up this storm damage?
A: The City of Wyandotte Public Services Department does pick up tree branches and tree debris after a storm. It is recommended that residents contact The Department of Public Services at: 734-324-4580 to have their address placed on our storm damage listing. City crews will only pick up storm damage that is placed at the curb. Crews will not enter upon private property to collect materials. Typically, storm damage is collected within 2-3 days after a storm or high wind has occurred. However, collection will occur as time permits.

Potholes

Q. How can I report a pothole or street repair issue?
A. Citizens can report large potholes or street repair issues on city or county roads by calling 1-888-ROAD CREW.

Snow Removal & Emergencies

Q: Why hasn’t my street been plowed yet?
A: The Department of Public Service’s goal is to provide a bare pavement quality recognized by many other Snow Belt cities. The order in which the roads are plowed is: 1. Police and fire facilities, bridges, hills and curves. 2. Major road networks and emergency routes. 3. The balance of the local roads.

Q: My home does not have a driveway, where can I park during a Snow Emergency?
A: The City of Wyandotte has numerous Snow Emergency parking lots available for use during a snow emergency. Please visit the following link to view the location of these sites.

Q: I was parked on the street during a snow emergency and my car was towed. How do I get it back?
A: Police towing is performed by Groat Brothers Towing, 1466 Eureka, Wyandotte. In order to release your car, you must first pay the fine. You may contact Groat Brothers Towing at 734-284-6232.

Traffic Signals

Q: How do I report malfunctioning traffic signals?
A: Citizens can report large potholes or street repair issues on city or county roads by calling 1-888-ROAD CREW.

Back to top of pageEngineering and Building Department

Q: What codes does the City of Wyandotte enforce?
A: The City of Wyandotte has adopted the 2006 Michigan Building Code, 2006 Michigan Residential Code, the 2006 Michigan Rehabilitation Code for Existing Buildings, the 2006 Michigan Plumbing and Mechanical Code and the 2005 Michigan Electrical Code. Copies of the code books are available for purchase on the State of Michigan website.  The City of Wyandotte has also adopted a Property Maintenance Code Ordinance #1094 which may be found by visiting Municode's website.

Q: When do I need to pull a permit?
A: If you are doing any structural changes or building a new building a permit is required. If you are doing any electrical, plumbing or mechanical upgrades; replacing City sidewalks, driveway or driveway apron; installing a pool a permit is required. For more information about the types of permits and fees associated with them, you may visit the Engineering and Building Department website.

Q: Does a Building Permit also include electrical, mechanical or plumbing work?
A: No, separate permits are required for electrical, mechanical and plumbing. For more information about the types of permits and fees associated with them, you may visit the Engineering and Building Department web page.

Q: How long does it take for a permit to be issued?
A: In most cases; electrical, mechanical and plumbing permits can be issued right away. Building and Concrete Permits require additional time for processing and are typically issued within 24 to 48 hours.

Q: Is a permit required for a new fence?
A: No, a permit is not required; however fences must be installed in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance Section 2406 Fences which may be found online.

Q: How can I reach an inspector if I have a question?
A: The Building Inspectors, for permit related questions, are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 10:00 am and from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. The Plumbing and Mechanical Inspectors, for permit related questions, are available Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:00 am to 9:00 am.

Q: Can I start work without a permit?
A: No, a permit must be secured before work can begin. Work started without a permit is subject to a fine in the amount of $125.00.

Q: What type of fees should I anticipate when applying for a permit?
A: A plan review fee maybe required at time of application depending on the type of permit being requested. In most cases, fees are paid at time of issuance of permit. Click here to view the permits and fees page.

Q: Can I pull my own permit, as a homeowner?
A: As the owner and occupant of a single family dwelling you can secure homeowners permits as long as you are doing the work. If the property is a multiple family or rental dwelling a licensed contractor is required for electrical, mechanical and plumbing permits. The owner may secure the building permit only.

Q: Is an inspection required if I am selling my home?
A: Yes, an inspection is required for the sale of any dwelling in the City of Wyandotte. Inspections for sale are done on Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:00 am to 11:00 am and from 11:30 am and 2:00 pm. Applications and fees associated with this may be found at the Engineering and Building Department web page.

Q: Is an inspection required if I want to rent my home?
A: Yes, an inspection is required. Also, you are required to register the home as rental with the City Clerk’s Office. Inspections for rental properties are done on Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:00 am to 11:00 am and from 11:30 am to 2:00 pm. Applications and fees associated with this may be found at the Engineering and Building Department web page.

Q: If I have questions regarding my inspection how can I reach in inspector?
A: The Upon Sale and Rental Inspectors are available for questions on Tuesday and Wednesday from 8:00 am to 9:00 am. However, the Engineering and Building Staff is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm to assist you.

Back to top of pageMunicipal Services (Cable, Internet and Phone)

Q: Will my cable work when the Digital Television (DTV) transition takes effect?
A: The answer is dependent upon the source of your television programming. If you received only free over-the-air that is not have a Digital tuner, you must purchase a converter box. If you are a Wyandotte Cable Subscriber, you will not have to purchase this converter box. For more information about the digital transition switch, you may visit the Wyandotte Municipal Services website at or by visiting the FCC’s digital transition website.

Q: How can I find current rates for Wyandotte Municipal Services?
A: Current rates for Internet and VOIP are listed on the Wyandotte Municipal Services website.

Outages

Q: What do I do in the event of a downed power line?
A: If you see a downed power line: Stay away from the lines, and keep children and pets inside. Assume that all downed power lines are energized and stay away. Report the downed lines at 734-324-7190. If you think the downed lines pose an immediate hazard to the public, call 911.

Q: How can I get a street light repaired?
A: You may call the Department of Municipal Services at 734-324-7190.

Q: My cable, phone or internet isn’t working, who can I call to fix it?
A: If your cable, phone or internet is provided through Wyandotte Municipal Services, you may contact Wyandotte Municipal Services at: 734-324-7190 or visit their website.

Back to top of pageTreasury

Q: When is my tax bill due?
A: Summer tax bills are mailed on or about August 1st and are payable through September 26th without penalty. Winter tax bills are mailed on or about December 1st and are payable through February 26th without penalty.

Q: Where can I pay my tax bill?
A: A return addressed envelope is provided with your property tax bill. Please utilize this return envelope when paying your current property taxes to ensure accurate and expedient delivery. Other payment options include the following:

  •  City Hall, 3131 Biddle Avenue (City Hall has an after hour mail box located in front of the City Hall building)
  •  Monroe Bank & Trust, Downriver, 467 Eureka Road
  •  WY/South Federal Credit Union (Members Only), 269 Oak Street
  •  Wyandotte Federal Credit Union (Members Only), 1280 Biddle Avenue

Q: Can I pay my tax bill with a credit card?
A: Yes, credit and debit card payments are only accepted at City Hall, 3131 Biddle Avenue. There is a convenience fee to customers for payments made by credit or debit card. The fee is collected and paid to the service provider, not to the City of Wyandotte. Other acceptable forms of payment include cash, check or money order.

Q: Can I pay my tax bill online?
A: No. This service is currently not available.

Q: What happens if I do not pay my tax bill on time?
A: Summer tax payments made after September 26th are assessed a 4% penalty. All summer and winter real property tax bills not paid on or before February 26th become delinquent March 1st. Beginning March 1st, delinquent real property tax payments can be made only to Raymond J. Wojtowicz, Wayne County Treasurer, The International Center Building, 400 Monroe-5th Floor, Detroit, Michigan 48226.

Delinquent personal property tax payments can be made only to the City of Wyandotte Treasurer. Delinquent personal property taxes are assessed a 1% penalty each month beginning March 1st.

Q: Am I liable for my property taxes including any penalty and interest amounts if I do not receive a summer or winter tax bill?
A: Yes. As a property owner, you are responsible for paying your property taxes. If you do not receive your property tax bill by the third week of August/December and do not have an escrow account, please call 734-324-4570 for a duplicate copy. Failure to receive your property bill does not waive payment requirements or penalty and interest charges.

Q: Can I defer payment of my summer property tax bill?
A: Yes, if you meet certain criteria. To find out, simply click here.

Q: What happens if I cannot pay my property tax bills?
A: This link provides resources that may offer to help with paying your property taxes:

Q: If I don’t pay my property tax bill, how long does it take before I lose my property?
A: Public Act 123 has significantly shortened the time you have to pay delinquent property taxes before losing your property. Property owners with taxes that are two years delinquent may have their property foreclosed and sold at a public auction. For more information related to delinquent taxes, click on the following link: http://www.waynecounty.com/treasurer/

Q: Can I look up my property tax information online?
A: Yes. Property tax information can be accessed by clicking here.

Q: What are the abbreviations listed next to the amounts on my tax bill?
A: The City of Wyandotte Treasurer collects city taxes along with taxes for other taxing entities. For a complete listing of the taxes on your bill, click here.

Q: What is a mill?
A: One (1) mill is equal to $1.00 per each $1,000.00 in taxable value. Your taxable value x the millage rate = your property taxes

Q: What is the City of Wyandotte millage rate?
A: Millage rate information can be found by clicking here.

Q: What is the difference between real and personal property?
A: Real property is your home, land, buildings and other permanent structures. Personal property represents the furniture, fixtures, machinery and equipment used by a business.

Q: What is the tax date (tax day)?
A: The tax date (tax day) is December 31st of the year preceding the tax bills. December 31, 2008 would be the tax date (tax day) for the 2009 tax bills. This is the date as of which the City Assessor establishes the assessed and taxable values of real and personal property.

Q: My tax bill shows an amount for a special assessment. What is it for?
A: A special assessment is a fee collected by the city for improvements or services the city provides that benefit property owners. Special assessments can be used to finance many types of local improvements, such as:

  •  Street improvements
  •  Sidewalk improvements
  •  Street lighting systems
  •  Water and/or sewer improvements
  •  Parking Facilities

Q: Are all special assessments for improvements?
A: No. City ordinance also allows special assessments to be used to recover certain unpaid charges and fines. Some examples include:

  •  Grass cutting
  •  Weed elimination
  •  Snow and ice removal from sidewalks

Q: How do I know what the special assessment amount on my tax bill is for?
A: You have likely received one or more notices from the city in relation to the amount of the special assessment on your tax bill. Special assessment notices are sent to property owners whether the assessment is for an improvement project, penalty and interest charge or an unpaid bill. To inquire about a special assessment on your tax bill, call 734-324-4547.

Q: I no longer have a business in the City of Wyandotte, yet I am still receiving tax bills for the personal property, why?
A: If you were in business in the Wyandotte as of December 31st of the prior year, you will be responsible for both the summer and winter taxes in the year following. Tax Day is December 31st and taxes are paid on whatever is on a particular property in the following tax collection (or year).

Back to top of pagePublic Safety

Q: How do I contact the Wyandotte Police Department?
A: For emergencies, dial 911. Contact information for the Wyandotte Police Department is found by clicking here.

Q: How do I contact the Wyandotte Fire Department?
A: For emergencies, dial 911. Contact information for the Wyandotte Fire Department is found by clicking here.

Q: How do I contact the 27th District Courthouse?
A: Contact information for the 27th District Court is found by clicking here.

Q: What is the Community Alert Telephone System?
A: The City of Wyandotte has an emergency telephone notification system, which notifies residents in the event of a community emergency situation. The Community Alert Telephone System uses local telephone number databases for listed phone numbers. If your home phone number is already listed, no further action is necessary. For unlisted numbers, see below.

Q: How do I add my unlisted telephone number to the Community Alert Telephone System?
A: If you have an unlisted telephone number and wish to add it to the First Call Interactive, the [registration form] must be completed and mailed to Office of the Mayor, 3131 Biddle Avenue, Wyandotte, MI 48192, or you may also call 1- 866-484-3264 to register the phone number. The registration phone call is toll free for members of a community with unlisted phone numbers to call and register to be part of the program. The phone numbers are protected under the normal non-disclosure agreement between First-Call Interactive Network and the City of Wyandotte.

This document is available to view in PDF format. Community Telephone Alert Form

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