FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I find the zoning designation for my property?

You can check a property’s general zoning information online using Gaston County GIS or Bessemer City’s zoning lookup tool. Search by street address or parcel ID. Because online mapping is intended for general guidance, contact the Planning & Zoning Department at (704) 629-5542 if you need an official zoning determination or have a question about an overlay district.

How can I verify information I hear or see about the City?

For questions about City services, projects, policies, or information circulating in the community, use an official City source whenever possible. You may call Customer Service at (704) 629-5542, contact the appropriate department, or review the City’s BC Fact Check page, which provides background and factual information on commonly discussed City topics.

Related resources: BC Fact Check | City Contact Page | City Website

How do I apply for a City zoning or development permit?

Start on the Planning & Zoning page and use the City’s online Permit Portal. New users will need to create an account. Depending on the project, you may be asked to provide property-owner information, contractor information, plans, surveys, or other supporting documents. If you are unsure which permit is required, contact Planning & Zoning before submitting an application.

Related resources: Planning & Zoning | Permit Portal | Land Development Code

How do I apply for employment with the City of Bessemer City?

Current job openings and application information are posted on the City’s Employment Opportunities page. Openings change throughout the year, so check that page for the most current vacancies and application instructions.

Related resources: Employment Opportunities

Who should I contact if I have a question or problem with my utility account?

Contact City Customer Service at (704) 629-5542 for questions about utility accounts, billing, payments, service applications, account balances, or related customer-service matters. For water-quality concerns or natural-gas emergencies, use the specific department contacts listed elsewhere in this FAQ.

Related resources: City Contact Page | Bill Pay Options | Forms & Documents

When does the Bessemer City Council meet?

Regular City Council meetings are generally held on the second Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. Work sessions are generally held on the last Tuesday of each month at 3:00 p.m. Meeting dates can change because of holidays, special meetings, or other scheduling needs, so check the City Council Meetings page for the official schedule, agendas, minutes, and available recordings or live streams.

Related resources: City Council Meetings | City Calendar

What does economic development mean in Bessemer City?

Economic development is the City’s work to strengthen the local economy and create conditions for long-term investment. In Bessemer City, that includes supporting existing businesses, helping entrepreneurs and new businesses, recruiting commercial and industrial investment, providing site and real-estate information, connecting businesses with resources, and encouraging job creation and tax-base growth.

Related resources: Economic Development | Business Hub

Why are some buildings vacant downtown, and can the City require an owner to fill them?

A vacant privately owned building is not, by itself, something the City can require an owner to lease, sell, or place into active business use. Property owners make those private investment decisions. The City can enforce applicable building, zoning, nuisance, and safety regulations and can encourage reinvestment through economic-development assistance, grants, business recruitment, and redevelopment partnerships.

Related resources: Downtown Development | Development Incentives | Economic Development

Does the City offer incentives to help improve commercial buildings or prepare them for new businesses?

Yes. Bessemer City offers several economic-development incentive programs for qualifying projects. Current programs include the Facade Improvement Grant (FIG), which can assist with eligible exterior improvements, and the Building Rehabilitation Incentive Grant (BRIG), which can assist with eligible interior improvements. The City also lists other development incentives for qualifying projects. Eligibility, match requirements, funding limits, and available funding should be confirmed before beginning work.

Why doesn’t Bessemer City have more fast-food restaurants, retailers, or other national businesses?

Private retailers and restaurants decide where to locate based on their own market criteria. Common factors include population and population growth, household income, traffic counts, customer spending, nearby competition, available sites or buildings, access, visibility, and proximity to existing locations. The City cannot require a private company to open in Bessemer City, but it can recruit businesses, share market and site information, support infrastructure and development, and work to make the community more attractive for private investment.

Related resources: Economic Development | Business Hub | BC Fact Check

What organizations and programs does the City work with to support economic development and community improvement?

Bessemer City participates in the North Carolina Main Street program, with Bessemer City Downtown Development administering downtown revitalization efforts locally. Keep Bessemer City Beautiful is also a local affiliate of Keep America Beautiful and focuses on cleanup, education, beautification, litter reduction, stormwater awareness, and volunteer initiatives. The City also works with Gaston County and regional economic-development, chamber, small-business, and workforce partners. Grants or outside funding received through these programs must be used for eligible purposes established by the funding source.

What number should I call in an emergency or for a non-emergency public-safety matter?

Call 911 for an emergency involving an immediate threat to life, safety, or property. For Bessemer City Police non-emergency matters, call (704) 629-2235. Gaston County Communications also receives non-emergency public-safety calls and dispatches police, fire, EMS, and animal-control services at (704) 866-3300.

What area does the Bessemer City Fire Department serve?

The Bessemer City Fire Department provides primary fire and emergency response within Bessemer City and also works with surrounding departments through mutual-aid arrangements when assistance is needed. Mutual aid allows departments to share personnel and equipment during larger or simultaneous incidents.

Related resources: Bessemer City Fire Department

What is a Knox Box, and does my property need one?

A Knox Box is a secure, fire-department-access key box installed on a building so emergency responders can enter when the property owner or manager is not present. Knox Boxes are commonly required for certain commercial or institutional occupancies. Before ordering one, contact the Bessemer City Fire Department at (704) 629-5396 to confirm whether one is required and which product or keying configuration is appropriate for your property.

Related resources: Bessemer City Fire Department | KnoxBox

How can I request a fire report?

Contact the Bessemer City Fire Department at (704) 629-5396. Staff can explain the available report format and whether the report can be provided by email or as a hard copy. Some records may be subject to public-records laws or other disclosure limitations depending on the incident.

Related resources: Bessemer City Fire Department | City Contact Page

Does the Fire Department provide or install smoke alarms?

The Fire Department’s current program provides free smoke alarms and installation assistance for qualifying Bessemer City residents, including senior citizens and low-income families. Program availability can depend on supplies and eligibility. Call the Fire Department at (704) 629-5396 to request assistance or confirm current program requirements.

How often should I test or replace my smoke alarm and its batteries?

Test smoke alarms at least once each month. For alarms with replaceable batteries, replace the battery at least annually or sooner if the alarm chirps or the manufacturer instructs otherwise. Do not attempt to replace a sealed 10-year battery; replace the entire alarm when required. As a general safety rule, smoke alarms should be replaced about 10 years after the manufacture date.

What should I do if I smell natural gas in my home or building?

Leave the area immediately. Do not turn electrical switches on or off, use a phone inside the building, start an engine, light a match, or do anything else that could create a spark. From a safe location away from the suspected leak, call 911 if there is a strong or blowing gas leak or an immediate danger. You may also contact Bessemer City at (704) 629-5542 during regular business hours or Gaston County Communications at (704) 866-3300 after hours. Do not re-enter until emergency or gas personnel say it is safe.

Who handles foster-home or building fire inspections?

For foster-home inspections and state-mandated fire inspections handled at the county level, contact the Gaston County Office of Emergency Management & Fire Services at (704) 866-3350. For questions about Bessemer City fire prevention, local response, or whether a City fire-safety review is needed, contact the Bessemer City Fire Department at (704) 629-5396.

Can the Fire Department fill a swimming pool or water tank?

No. The Bessemer City Fire Department does not fill private swimming pools or water tanks. Fire hydrants and fire apparatus must remain available for fire protection and emergency response. For questions about water service or other lawful water-supply options, contact City Customer Service at (704) 629-5542.

Related resources: Bessemer City Fire Department | City Contact Page

How can I schedule a Fire Department station tour?

Call the Bessemer City Fire Department at (704) 629-5396 to request a station tour. Staff can coordinate an appropriate date and time based on staffing, training, and emergency-response availability.

Related resources: Bessemer City Fire Department

Does the Bessemer City Fire Department provide child car-seat checks?

The Bessemer City Fire Department does not currently provide routine car-seat inspection services. Safe Kids Gaston County offers child-passenger-safety education and car-seat checkups through certified technicians and community events. Contact Safe Kids Gaston County for current inspection locations or appointments.

Related resources: Safe Kids Gaston County | Bessemer City Fire Department

What should I do if my smoke alarm keeps sounding or chirping?

First, treat every alarm as potentially real: if you see or smell smoke, suspect fire, or are unsure whether there is a fire, leave the building and call 911. If there is clearly no fire, check the alarm for a low-battery chirp, dust, steam, cooking smoke, or an end-of-life warning. Do not disable the alarm or remove the battery simply because it is sounding. If the cause cannot be identified, contact the Fire Department or the non-emergency public-safety number for guidance.

How can I become a Bessemer City firefighter?

Fire Department openings, including full-time, part-time, or volunteer opportunities when available, are posted through the City’s Employment Opportunities page. Review the current posting for minimum qualifications, application instructions, and required certifications.

Related resources: Employment Opportunities | Bessemer City Fire Department

Can I burn leaves or yard debris inside Bessemer City?

No. Open burning of leaves and other materials that the City provides a collection or disposal service for is prohibited within Bessemer City. Use the City’s available yard-waste or solid-waste services instead. Contact Public Works if you are unsure how a particular material should be handled.

Related resources: Bessemer City Fire Department | Public Works | Streets & Maintenance

How can I request a fire-prevention or fire-safety presentation?

Call the Bessemer City Fire Department at (704) 629-5396 to request a fire-prevention class, school visit, public-safety presentation, or other educational program. Scheduling depends on staff and emergency-response availability.

Related resources: Bessemer City Fire Department

What types of projects commonly require a City zoning permit?

Common examples include establishing a new use or opening a business, building a new house or addition, work that also requires a Gaston County building permit, installing or replacing an accessory structure or fence, constructing a driveway, demolishing or removing a structure, and certain temporary uses such as food trucks. Signs and other site improvements may also require approval. Permit requirements depend on the property, zoning district, project scope, and applicable Land Development Code standards, so contact Planning & Zoning before beginning work if you are unsure.

Related resources: Planning & Zoning | Permit Portal | Land Development Code

What information do I need to submit with an online permit application?

Use the City’s Permit Portal and create an account if you do not already have one. Applications may require the property owner’s information, contractor information, plans or drawings, surveys, and other documents relevant to the project. Submit as early as possible so staff has time to review the application and request any missing information. The existing FAQ references a 15-day completeness review and a 60-day compliance review under the Land Development Code; those specific review periods should be confirmed by Planning staff against the current Code before the website is republished.

Related resources: Permit Portal | Planning & Zoning | Land Development Code

How do I look up my zoning district?

Use the Bessemer City Zoning Lookup Tool or Gaston County GIS to identify the zoning district associated with a property. You can search by address or parcel ID. Online results are useful for general guidance; for an official determination, contact Planning & Zoning at (704) 629-5542.

Related resources: Bessemer City Zoning Lookup Tool | Gaston County GIS | Planning & Zoning

How do I determine what uses are allowed on a property?

First identify the property’s zoning district. Then review the Table of Uses in the Bessemer City Land Development Code to see whether a proposed use is permitted by right, permitted with additional standards, requires another approval, or is not permitted. Because a proposed activity may not fit neatly into a common land-use label, contact the Zoning Administrator if the use is unclear or you need a formal interpretation.

How do I apply for a zoning variance?

A variance is a quasi-judicial request for relief from a zoning standard when strict application of that standard would create an unnecessary hardship that meets the criteria in North Carolina law. A variance cannot be used to authorize a land use that is otherwise prohibited in the zoning district. Begin by reviewing the City’s variance guidance, then submit the required application and worksheet through the Permit Portal. The applicant is responsible for presenting competent evidence supporting the required findings.

Related resources: Planning & Zoning | Permit Portal | N.C.G.S. 160D-705 – Variances

How do I appeal a zoning administrator’s decision or interpretation?

If you have standing to appeal an administrative zoning decision, North Carolina law generally provides 30 days from receipt or notice of the written determination to file an appeal. Bessemer City appeals are submitted through the City’s development-review process and heard by the appropriate board. Review the City’s appeal worksheet and contact Planning & Zoning promptly because appeal deadlines are time-sensitive.

Related resources: Planning & Zoning | Permit Portal | N.C.G.S. 160D-405 – Appeals

Can I subdivide my property?

Possibly. A subdivision must comply with applicable lot dimensions, access, infrastructure, utility, environmental, and other standards in the Bessemer City Land Development Code. An official determination generally requires review of a subdivision plat prepared by a licensed surveyor and any supporting materials required by the City. Contact Planning & Zoning before having a final plat prepared so you understand the applicable process and standards.

When is the Bessemer City Pool open, and when are private reservations available?

Pool operations and private rentals are seasonal. The City posts each season’s opening date, hours, admission information, and rental availability on the Pool & Splashpad page. The 2026 pool season has ended, so residents should use the linked page for the next announced season rather than relying on prior-year dates. Parks & Recreation can also be reached at (704) 629-5111.

Related resources: Pool & Splashpad | Parks & Recreation

How much does it cost to rent the Allan Farris Community Center?

Check the Parks and Rec. home page for the most up-to-date rental questions.

Related resources: Allan Farris Community Center | Current City Fee Schedule | GatherGuard

Can the Allan Farris Community Center be rented for less than eight hours?

The current rental policy offers the facility in eight-hour rental blocks. You are not required to use the facility for the full eight hours, but the reservation is priced and booked as an eight-hour rental. Call Parks & Recreation at (704) 629-5111 for current policies, available dates, and any approved additional-hour options.

Related resources: Allan Farris Community Center | Parks & Recreation

Where can I find information about youth sports and registration?

Bessemer City Parks & Recreation offers youth sports programs such as basketball, baseball, soccer, and girls softball. Current registration periods and available programs are posted on the Recreation Sports page and the City’s RecDesk registration site. For questions, call Parks & Recreation at (704) 629-5111.

Related resources: Recreation Sports | RecDesk Registration | Parks & Recreation

What are the hours for Stinger Park?

The current FAQ lists Stinger Park hours as 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Because park hours can change seasonally or for maintenance, special events, or safety reasons, check with Parks & Recreation at (704) 629-5111 if you are planning a visit outside normal daytime hours.

Related resources: Parks & Recreation | City Calendar

When is the Stinger Park Splashpad open?

The splashpad operates seasonally. For 2026, the City’s current Pool & Splashpad page states that it opened May 22 and is scheduled to operate through the end of September, with hours of 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. during current water-conservation efforts. Seasonal dates and hours can change, so check the City page before visiting.

Related resources: Pool & Splashpad | Parks & Recreation

Why does my tap water sometimes look discolored?

Water discoloration can occur after water-line work, hydrant use, changes in system flow, or natural changes in the City’s raw-water sources. Naturally occurring iron and manganese can increase during seasonal lake turnover, drought, flooding, heavy rainfall, or other source-water changes. If discoloration persists or you are concerned about your water, contact the J.V. Tarpley Water Treatment Plant at (704) 629-5684 so staff can investigate, flush lines if appropriate, or collect a sample.

Is Bessemer City drinking water safe to use?

Yes. The City states that water produced by the J.V. Tarpley Water Treatment Plant is treated and tested in accordance with applicable state and federal drinking-water requirements. The City publishes Consumer Confidence Reports and public notices so customers can review water-quality information. If you notice an unusual change in your water or have a specific concern, call the Water Treatment Plant at (704) 629-5684. If the City issues a boil-water advisory or other public notice, follow the instructions in that notice.

Where can I find information about downtown and community events?

The City maintains an Events page for major community programs and a City Calendar for meetings, recreation programs, and other scheduled activities. Event dates, times, locations, closures, and other details may change, so use those pages for the most current information.

Related resources: City Events | City Calendar

Why is my utility bill higher than usual?

A higher bill can result from increased water or gas use, seasonal changes, filling a pool, irrigation, a dripping faucet, a running toilet, a plumbing leak, changes in household occupancy, or greater heating demand. Review your current and prior usage and check the property for leaks or unusual consumption. If the increase is unexplained, contact Customer Service at (704) 629-5542 so staff can review the account and explain the next steps available to you.

Related resources: City Contact Page | Bill Pay Options | Water Division

Why won’t City crews clean a sewer line through the cleanout beside my house?

The City’s responsibility generally applies to the public sewer system and the service connection up to the point established by the City, while the private building sewer or lateral between the house and the City connection is the property owner’s responsibility. If a property has a cleanout at or near the property line, crews can use that point to help determine whether the blockage is on the public or private side. Contact Public Works at (704) 629-5398 for guidance before hiring a plumber if you are unsure where the problem is located.

Related resources: Public Works | City Contact Page

What payment methods does the City accept for utility bills?

The City accepts cash, check, money order, credit card, debit card, and automatic bank draft (ACH). Online card payments are also available, although the City’s payment processor charges convenience/service fees. ACH bank draft is available without the online card-processing fees. Contact Customer Service at (704) 629-5542 for help enrolling in ACH.

Related resources: Bill Pay Options | Online Utility Payment Portal | ACH / Utility Forms

Why can my sewer charge be higher than my water charge?

Water and sewer are separate utility services with different operating and treatment costs and different adopted rate structures. Bessemer City treats drinking water locally and contracts for wastewater treatment services, so sewer charges reflect the cost of collecting, transporting, and treating wastewater. Current water and sewer rates are established in the City’s adopted fee schedule.

Related resources: Current City Fee Schedule | Water Division | Forms & Documents

What is the easiest way to pay my utility bill without online payment fees?

Automatic bank draft (ACH) is the City’s no-fee electronic payment option. It provides automatic payment from your bank account and can help reduce the risk of missed or late payments. Contact Customer Service at (704) 629-5542 or use the ACH Authorization Agreement available on the Forms & Documents page to get started.

Related resources: Bill Pay Options | Forms & Documents / ACH Authorization

How do I apply for water, sewer, or natural-gas utility service?

Utility service applications are available through the City’s Forms & Documents page. Customer Service can explain which application is needed, required identification or account information, deposits or fees, and service-availability requirements. The current City contact information lists the City Hall Annex at 125 E. Virginia Avenue for Customer Service, and the main Customer Service number is (704) 629-5542.

Can I pay my utility bill over the phone?

No. The City does not currently accept utility-bill payments by telephone for security reasons. Customers may use the City’s online payment portal, pay in person using an accepted payment method, or enroll in automatic bank draft (ACH).

What can I do to reduce my natural-gas bill?

Natural-gas use usually rises with colder weather and increased heating demand. Practical ways to reduce usage include maintaining heating equipment, replacing dirty HVAC filters, sealing air leaks around doors and windows, improving insulation, using a programmable or smart thermostat to reduce heating when you are asleep or away, and choosing efficient appliances when replacement is needed. In winter, ceiling fans can be run clockwise at low speed to help circulate warm air. Always keep gas appliances properly serviced and follow manufacturer safety instructions.

Who should I contact with natural-gas service or billing questions?

For routine natural-gas service or billing questions, contact City Customer Service at (704) 629-5542. For a suspected gas leak or emergency, leave the area and follow the emergency instructions in this FAQ. The Natural Gas page lists (704) 629-5542 during regular business hours and Gaston County Communications at (704) 866-3300 after hours and on weekends.

Related resources: Bessemer City Natural Gas | City Contact Page

Why are colored lines, paint, or flags appearing in my yard or near the street?

Colored paint and flags are used to mark underground utilities before excavation or construction. North Carolina law requires excavators to contact 811 before digging so affected utility operators can mark underground facilities. The colors identify different utility types—for example, yellow is used for gas, blue for potable water, green for sewer/drain lines, red for electric, and orange for communications. The marks are temporary and should not be removed while the locate request is active.

Related resources: North Carolina 811 | Bessemer City Natural Gas

What does natural gas smell like?

Natural gas is naturally colorless and odorless. Utilities add a strong odorant so leaks can be detected quickly; the odor is commonly described as similar to rotten eggs or sulfur. If you detect that odor and suspect a leak, do not investigate with a flame or electrical device—leave the area and follow the gas-emergency instructions in this FAQ.

What should I do if I suspect a natural-gas leak?

Leave the area immediately and warn others to stay away if you can do so safely. Do not use phones, switches, flashlights, engines, matches, appliances, or anything else that could create a spark in the affected area. From a safe location, call 911 for blowing gas, a strong leak, fire, or other immediate danger. During regular business hours, you may also contact Bessemer City at (704) 629-5542; after hours, call Gaston County Communications at (704) 866-3300. Do not attempt to repair the leak yourself and do not re-enter until responders say the area is safe.

Can the Police Department check my home while I am away on vacation?

Yes. You may request a special or vacation check by calling the Bessemer City Police Department at (704) 629-2235. The current FAQ states that a special check may be requested for up to two weeks. Be prepared to provide the dates you will be away, emergency contact information, vehicles expected at the property, and the names of any people who are authorized to be there.

Related resources: Bessemer City Police Department | City Contact Page

How do I contact Animal Care and Enforcement?

Animal-control services in Bessemer City are provided through Gaston County Animal Care & Enforcement. For a non-emergency animal-related call for service, contact Gaston County Communications at (704) 866-3300. The Animal Care & Enforcement office can also be reached at (704) 922-8677 for shelter and general business questions. Call 911 for an immediate threat to life or safety.

How does the eviction process work in North Carolina?

Eviction is a court process; in North Carolina it is generally called summary ejectment. A landlord cannot lawfully remove a tenant by simply changing locks, shutting off utilities, or using other self-help measures instead of the court process. The North Carolina Judicial Branch provides an overview of landlord-tenant law, filing requirements, court procedures, appeals, and available forms. Because individual circumstances vary, consider consulting an attorney if you need legal advice about a specific case.

Related resources: NC Judicial Branch – Landlord/Tenant Issues

How do I obtain a restraining order or protective order?

North Carolina courts issue different types of protective orders depending on the relationship between the parties and the circumstances. The North Carolina Judicial Branch provides information about domestic-violence protective orders, filing procedures, forms, and courthouse resources. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. For questions about a specific legal situation, contact the Clerk of Superior Court or an attorney.

Related resources: NC Judicial Branch – How to Get a Protection Order

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