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Frequently Asked Questions

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.

Customer Service (Water Billing) Division

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  • You can come into our office during business hours to apply for service or use the link below:

    https://cityofbossiercityla.municipalonlinepayments.com/cityofbossiercityla/utilities

    We will need your photo I.D. and proof of ownership/a property management agreement/a full lease agreement in order to fully process your application.

    Customer Service (Water Billing) Division
  • You may transfer service from one address to another if all outstanding balances have been paid in full for any existing account(s). 

    Customer Service (Water Billing) Division
  • To disconnect services, you may come into our office or you may contact Customer Service during business hours at (318)741-8757. You can also email Customer Service at waterdepartment@bossiercity.org. 

    Customer Service (Water Billing) Division
  • Accepted forms of payment include:

    -Check - By mail, drop box, or in office

    -Cash - In office

    -Money Order - By mail, drop box, or in office

    -Visa/Mastercard - Online, by automated phone service, or in office (third party fees apply)

    -Echeck - Online or by automated phone service  (third party fees apply)

    Customer Service (Water Billing) Division
  • All payments returned due to NSF are subject to immediate disconnection. A $25 NSF fee will be assessed for each returned payment. If disconnected, all applicable reconnection fees must be paid in full along with the amount of the returned payment in order to restore services. 

    Customer Service (Water Billing) Division
  • Customer Service is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

    Customer Service (Water Billing) Division

Tax Division - Occupational License

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  • Occupational License Tax is a tax on the gross receipts of each person or entity operating from a physical business location within the corporate city limits of Bossier City. If your business is located within the corporate city limits of Benton, Haughton, or Plain Dealing you should pay your occupational license tax directly to that municipality.
    Tax Division - Occupational License
  • Complete an Occupational License Application and a Tax Registration Application. The same application is used to register for Sales and Use Tax and Chain Store Tax if applicable. The minimum temporary (tentative) license fee is reduced to $25 for business beginning after June 30. Obtain a Certificate of Occupancy from the Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC): Bossier City Municipal Complex Second Floor Bossier City, LA 71171 Phone - 318-741-8824 Pay the temporary (tentative) license fee ($50) prescribed by LA. R.S. Title 47 to obtain a temporary license, from the Tax Department License Division: Bossier City Municipal Complex First Floor Bossier City, LA 71171 Phone: 318-741-8555
    Tax Division - Occupational License
  • The Occupational License Tax is renewed annually. All Occupational License taxes expire December 31 and are to be renewed by March 1 of the new year.
    Tax Division - Occupational License
  • If within the Bossier City corporate city limits call or write: City of Bossier City - Tax Department License Division Bossier City Municipal Complex 620 Benton Road Bossier City, LA 71111 Phone: 318-741-8555
    Tax Division - Occupational License

Property Tax

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  • Yes, you can.  Click the following link to be redirected to our Online Property Tax Payment Service.
    Online Property Tax Processing

    Property Tax
  • Property tax notices are generally mailed by the last week of November and become due upon receipt. Then become delinquent if not paid by December 31. If your Mortgage Company usually pays your property taxes, please forward the notice accordingly to them.
    Property Tax
  • Yes! However, it is the responsibility of the taxpayer to insure that the Post Office has received and will post mark your mail.
    Property Tax
  • 1% per month from January 1 until paid.
    Property Tax
  • You must contact the Bossier Parish Assessor’s Office at 318-965-2213. All changes to assessments must be submitted, by the Assessor, to the Louisiana Tax Commission, for approval.
    Property Tax
  • No. The bill must be paid in full before our tax sale, which is held annually in June.
    Property Tax
  • You must contact the Assessor’s Office at 318-965-2213. The Homestead Exemption exempts the first $75,000 of parish property tax. There is no Homestead Exemption for the city property taxes.
    Property Tax
  • You may mail your check or money order payable to Bossier City: City of Bossier City P.O. BOX 5399 Bossier City, LA 71171-5399 You may also pay your bill (in cash, check or money order) in person at this address: Property Tax Department 620 Benton Road Bossier City, LA 71111
    Property Tax
  • View a variety of locations for paying your Parish Property tax by visiting the
    Property Tax
  • You must submit your change of address by calling 318-965-2213 or in writing to: Bossier Parish Assessor Office P.O. Box 325 Benton, LA 71006
    Property Tax
  • Yes. For mortgage and mortgage service companies requesting research of assessment numbers on the property tax roll, electronic processing of taxes and printing of tax notices. Tax notice requests are due before October 31 for the tax billing in November. Tax payments are due on or before December 31. We accept payments postmarked with a December 31 date, but to facilitate a timely collection cycle we request that all mortgage company’s pay by December 20. A $1.50 error request processing fee is charged for each unpaid tax item requested in error.
    Property Tax

Sales Tax

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  • Sales and Use Tax Returns are delinquent if not received (postmarked) on or before the 20th day of the following month in which the sales occurred. Sales and Use Tax Returns and remittances should be mailed to: City of Bossier City - Sales and Tax Division P.O. Box 71313 Bossier City, LA 71171-1313
    Sales Tax
  • Sales Tax
  • You can learn more by viewing the
    Sales Tax
  • You can file and pay sales and use tax at the Bossier City tax office: First Floor 620 Benton Road Bossier City, LA 71111
    Sales Tax
  • Yes you can pay your sales tax online by going to
    Sales Tax

Human Resources

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  • Print out the application, complete it in full, sign and date it, and either mail it in, drop it off, or fax it in at 318-741-8809.
    Human Resources
  • Closing dates pertain to current City of Bossier employees only. They have no bearing on prospective employees and don't pertain to anyone who does not already work for the city.
    Human Resources
  • We use a Grade and Step for our pay scale and it varies from job to job, based on experience and education. There really is no way to tell what you would be making, until after someone has interviewed you and evaluated what your job skills are worth.
    Human Resources
  • We run background checks on all prospective employees, and a criminal history may determine employment.
    Human Resources
  • No, not all jobs require high school diplomas.
    Human Resources
  • Yes, most of our jobs do require you to be 18 years of age to work here, however the part time summer and seasonal positions, such as Lifeguard, scorekeeper and basket worker, do not require you to be 18. For those jobs, you must have a minor certificate and be eligible to work under the guidelines of the Louisiana Department of Labor.
    Human Resources
  • No, it does not matter where you live, as long as you can work the required hours that are requested of you, for a particular job.
    Human Resources
  • No, we list all of our open vacancies on our website and on the job postings board outside our office, located at 620 Benton Road Bossier City, LA 71111
    Human Resources

Human Resources - Applications

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  • There is nothing you can do to check on your application once it has been turned in. We stamp all applications at the end of each day, we then send them to the department heads that are looking for prospective employees. The department heads then choose who they want to interview and hire. Please see a list of our departments and the department heads for information on who to speak with regarding a job.
    Human Resources - Applications
  • We keep all applications on file for 1 year.
    Human Resources - Applications
  • Yes, we must have an application, signed and dated, and completed in full, before we can call you in for an interview.
    Human Resources - Applications

Public Works - Animal Control

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  • It is a way to help citizens and animals live together in harmony.

    Public Works - Animal Control
  • Because your animal control program depends on you. Animal Control problems begin with people. The health and Safety of all animals and people are at risk when irresponsible pet owners: - Let their pets roam free - Fail to observe laws and ordinances - Allow their pets to have unwanted litters

    Solutions begin with animal control. Your animal control program can solve these problems with your help.

    Public Works - Animal Control
  • If you live in Bossier Parish you can call 318-965-9557, if you live in Caddo Parish or Shreveport you can call 318-226-6624.
    Public Works - Animal Control
  • Yes, Animal Control houses both stray dogs and cats.

    Public Works - Animal Control
  • Immediately, since strays are only held three working days.
    Public Works - Animal Control
  • You could rent a trap from the shelter for a deposit charge of $45 cash only and use of the trap for 10 working days. If the trap is returned within the ten- day period you will receive a refund of the $45 by check in the mail. You would be responsible for bringing any trapped cats to the shelter. We will not pick - up the cats.
    Public Works - Animal Control
  • You must bring the animal to us and turn over ownership to the shelter. The hours for receiving animals are 8 a.m. - 3 p.m., Monday through Friday.
    Public Works - Animal Control
  • You will need to contact an exterminator regarding the vermin and you should contact a beekeeper regarding the bees.
    Public Works - Animal Control
  • Yes, adoptions are between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

    Public Works - Animal Control

Police Department

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  • The Bossier City Police Department is located within the Bossier City Municipal Complex at 620 Benton Road in Bossier City.
    Police Department
  • As of August 1, 2020 the Office of State Examiner is responsible for calling for testing, accepting test applications, administering tests  and maintaining a statewide eligibility list for the entry level classes of Firefighter and Police Officer.   In order to apply to take the Firefighter or Police Officer exam in person, the application must be received during the 10-day posting period as reflected on our website at www.ose.louisiana.gov


    Entry Level Firefighter Exam

    https://ose.louisiana.gov/jurisdictions/entry-level-firefighter/


    Entry Level Police Officer Exam

    https://ose.louisiana.gov/jurisdictions/entry-level-police-officer/

    Police Department
  • There is no charge for a Restraining/Protective Order. The Northwest Louisiana Family Justice Center can provide assistance with obtaining them. The center may be contacted at (318) 584-7171.

    Police Department
  • Traffic accident reports and police offense reports may be obtained in person at the Records Division of Bossier City Police Department. Find more information on the
    Police Department
  • Such permits are issued through the Office of the Chief of Police. Call 318-741-8621 for information.
    Police Department
  • Letters of commendation may be sent to: Chief of Police P.O. Box 6216 Bossier City, LA 71171-6216

    Alternatively, you may use the Bossier City Police to Citizen website: https://bossiercitypd.policetocitizen.com/OfficerCommendation

    Police Department
  • To file a complaint against an officer, please contact our Internal Affairs Office at 318-741-8623.
    Police Department
  • The Bossier Combined Narcotics Task Force addresses citizen complaints/tips concerning illegal narcotics activity. Such activity may be reported anonymously by calling the Narcotics Tip Line 318-741-8585.
    Police Department
  • Call Bossier Crime Stoppers at 318-424-4100. Callers to Crime Stoppers are reminded they may remain totally anonymous and could be eligible for up to a $1,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest or arrests. You can also submit a tip via the
    Police Department
  • To find out how much a traffic ticket will cost, please call 318-741-8835.
    Police Department
  • Traffic fines can be paid at the Bossier City Court Office located in City Hall, 620 Benton Road.
    Police Department
  • If your vehicle was towed, to get it back contact the wrecker service that towed your vehicle. If your vehicle was towed by order of Bossier City Police due to a violation and you don’t know the name of the wrecker service, call the Police Department at 318-741-8605.
    Police Department
  • For a complete list of the Bossier City Ordinances, go to the
    Police Department
  • Contact our Patrol Division at 318-741-8634. Certain guidelines apply when hiring an off duty officer.
    Police Department

Parks & Recreation

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  • If you call the office they can look it up in the Rec Trac system.
    Parks & Recreation
  • Yes, $35 for each additional child in the same household.
    Parks & Recreation
  • Public Service Complex located at: 3223 Old Shed Road Bossier City, LA 71171
    Parks & Recreation
  • We are open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
    Parks & Recreation
  • Parks close at dusk.
    Parks & Recreation
  • Call our office for specific rates at 318.741-8450.
    Parks & Recreation
  • Betty Virginia Park is in Shreveport, you may contact the Shreveport Parks at 318-673-7727.
    Parks & Recreation
  • Yes, the number is 318-213-2108.
    Parks & Recreation
  • Yes, the number is 318-741-8367.
    Parks & Recreation

Small Claims Division

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  • The Small Claims Court Division is a part of the Bossier City Court established pursuant to Louisiana Revised Statutes 13:5200-5212. You may sue to resolve minor civil disputes and to recover claims of up to $5,000. A claim, generally speaking, asserts a legal right you may have. For more information visit the
    Small Claims Division
  • You may sue if you believe someone owes you money. For example, you may sue if: - Someone fails to return a deposit to you. - Products that you purchased are defective and the seller refuses to repair, refund or replace. - You suffer loss or injury as a result of the negligence or intentional misconduct of another. - Your employer fails to pay wages, salaries or commissions you are due. - You seek possession of personal property you are due (but not real estate). The following types of cases may not be instituted in the Small Claims Court: - Suits involving annulment, separation, divorce, alimony, separation of property, temporary restraining order or injunction, succession, interdiction, receivership, liquidation, habeas corpus, or the title to real estate. - Suits against a state agency, parish, municipality or other political subdivision. - Suits against a public official performing official duties.
    Small Claims Division
  • Come to the Bossier city Court which is located at 620 Benton Road, Bossier City, Louisiana, in the Bossier City Municipal Complex between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. The court cost deposit for filing a Small Claim action is $65 for each defendant (person being sued); $20 for each additional defendant. Please be advised that these court cost are non refundable. Please remember, the clerks are not allowed to give legal advice; therefore, you may wish to consult with an attorney before you file your claim.
    Small Claims Division
  • The clerk will give you the form, Statement of Claim and Citation. Be prepared to fill this form out completely be either printing or typing the information. View additional details by viewing the
    Small Claims Division

Engineering Department

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  • To learn what property your Flood Zone is located in call Don Crista at 318-741-8567.
    Engineering Department
  • Some properties do, but not all.
    Engineering Department
  • We do have the letter for some properties but not all.
    Engineering Department
  • For specific details call GIS at 318-741- 8564.
    Engineering Department
  • To get a driveway or sidewalk fixed call Public Works at 318-741- 8402.
    Engineering Department
  • We can help you out if you call Public Works at 318-741- 8402.
    Engineering Department
  • If you call Traffic Engineering at 318-741-8434 they can help you out or call AEP/SWEPCO at 1-888-216-3523. For more information view the
    Engineering Department
  • To get a streetlight by your home call Traffic Engineering at 318-741-8434.
    Engineering Department
  • Call Public Utilities at 318-741-8471.
    Engineering Department
  • Service questions can be answered by calling Public Utilities at 318-741-8471.
    Engineering Department

Solid Waste

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  • Your solid waste service will be coded as "SA" on your monthly city utility bill, with a fee of $16 per month. There is also a $8 public service fee charged under this same code. Should you generate more household garbage and trash than your 96 gallon cart will hold, you may order a second cart for an additional $4 per month.
    Solid Waste
  • All garbage and trash must be containerized in tightly-tied plastic bag before it is placed in the city-issued cart. Cardboard boxes should be flattened and placed beside your cart.
    Solid Waste
  • Roll your cart to the curb, between the sidewalk and street by 6:30 a.m. City Ordinance mandates that carts may be placed at curbside only from 9 a.m. prior to day of pickup through 9 a.m. the day after pickup.
    Solid Waste
  • Grass, leaves, clippings, pine straw, and all small yard waste matter should be containerized in plastic trash bags and placed 5-feet from your cart. Limbs should be cut not to exceed 6-feet in length and eighth inches in diameter, and stacked neatly on the curb.
    Solid Waste
  • Call the Bossier City Solid Waste Office at 318-741-8461. All solid waste will be collected on your regular pick-up day (appliances, furniture, metal, tires, etc.)
    Solid Waste
  • Call Bossier City Waste at 318-741-8464. Household garbage and trash, and yard waste will be collected on the same day.
    Solid Waste

Metropolitan Planning Commission

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  • Examples of elements shown on a site plan include but are not limited to

    1. Property Lines of site (actual shape and dimensions of the lot to be built upon)
    2. Address and legal description 
    3. Location and size of buildings and structures on the lot 
    4. All adjacent and adjoining streets 
    5. Dimensions of structure(s) to all property lines 
    6. Front, side and rear setbacks
    7. Location and widths of utility and drainage easements 
    8. Fence locations and height
    9. Pools and all decking dimensioned from the property lines (if applicable) 
    Metropolitan Planning Commission
  • Ask us. We are committed to explaining the process as clearly and concisely as possible. However, the permit process can be complex, even for those experienced with it. Depending on the size and type of your project, you may need the services of a licensed professional. In fact, certain laws may require that a portion or your entire project be prepared by a licensed architect or engineer. Our best advice is to check with the staff in the Building Permits Department to determine if the services of a licensed professional will be needed.

    Metropolitan Planning Commission
  • A site/plot plan is available through the builder, contractor, property survey or recorded subdivision plat. A plot may be available through the Bossier MPC department. Note that site plan produced through the MPC may not be completely accurate.

    Metropolitan Planning Commission
  • You may apply for a building permit when the plans for your proposed project are complete and Planning and Zoning approvals, if required, are granted. To apply you must turn in an application package to the permitting authority. The information included on the plans and the number of copies will vary, depending on the specifics of your project. Please note, you will be required to pay a site plan and permit fee. The entire plan review fee must be paid prior to issuance of the official permit.

    Metropolitan Planning Commission
  • After your application is submitted, we will review your plans. Depending on the nature of the project, the review could involve several departments. The Building Permits Department will determine compliance with building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, energy conservation, disabled access compliance, and storm water control regulations. The Fire Department will check for compliance with fire safety requirements. The Bossier City Engineering Department will check for compliance with flood control, drainage, parking and driveway standards and public improvement requirements. The Bossier City – Parish MPC will verify compliance with zoning regulations including authorized uses within zoning districts, required parking, and property development standards such as lot coverage, building height, setback, and density requirements.

    Metropolitan Planning Commission
  • Permits are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. However, we are committed to processing your plans as quickly and efficiently as possible.

    Metropolitan Planning Commission
  • The regulating permit authority will notify you when the initial plan review for your project is completed. If the plans cannot be approved as submitted, a list will be provided with the necessary corrections from all departments that reviewed your plans. Minor corrections can be made on the original plans submitted. However, if major changes are necessary, or if there are numerous corrections, you will be required to correct the base drawings and resubmit copies of the revised plans. Submitting thorough and complete plans initially will help avoid numerous revisions. When revised plans are submitted, they will be distributed to the departments that generated the initial corrections for subsequent review. Plans submitted for recheck will generally require less processing time than required for the initial check.


    Metropolitan Planning Commission
  • After the regulating departments determine that the plans satisfy all code requirements, you will be notified of the approval and asked to pay all remaining fees. Upon payment, a building permit will be issued and you can then begin construction.

    Metropolitan Planning Commission
  • The process of issuing a building permit may seem complex, which it is. It involves many City departments and outside agencies, and it may include a separate Planning process. The City is required by law to enforce numerous Federal, State and local construction and development regulations to insure that your project is safe and is an asset to the community.

    Metropolitan Planning Commission
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