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Beer Permits

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1. Who can sell beer or liquor in the City of White House?

It is unlawful for any person to sell, store for sale, distribute for sale, or manufacture beer or liquor without first making application to and obtaining a permit from the Beer Board.

2. How do I apply for a beer or liquor permit?

Persons wishing to apply for a beer/liquor license may download and print the Beer/Liquor Permit Application. It must then be delivered to City Hall, along with a non-refundable application fee in the form of a cashier’s check payable to the City of White House. The non-refundable application fee for a beer permit only is $250.00. The non-refundable application fee for a liquor permit is $550.00. Download the White House Beer Permit Application

3. What happens after a beer or liquor permit is submitted?

The City Recorder advertises the Beer Board meeting on the city website and in the local newspaper. The applicant and Beer Board are notified of the meeting time and date. Attendance of the applicant (or his representative) is required at the Beer Board meeting where this application is considered. The Beer Board considers the application at their meeting. If approved, a beer or liquor permit is granted and a hard copy is sent to the applicant to post in a conspicuous area in the place of business. Documentation of sales tax registration is due to the City within ten days of beer permit approval.

4. What are the definitions of beer and liquor?

“Beer” includes all beers, ales and other malt liquors having an alcoholic content of not more than five percent (5%) by weight.

"Liquor" includes all alcholoic beverages other than patented medicine or beer which contains an alcoholic content of five percent (5%) by weight or less.

5. What are the classes of permits for beer and liquor?

An "off-premises" permit allows for the sale beer only where the beer will not be consumed on or near the premises of the seller.

An "on-premises" permit allows for the sale and consumption of beer or liquor in the operation of a restaurant. A restaurant is defined as a business establishment whose primary business is the sale of prepared food to be consumed on the presmises and less than forty percent (40%) of its income is from the sale of beer or liquor.

6. When can holders of beer or liquor permits sell beer or liquor?

For off-premises permits the sale of beer only shall be permitted on a twenty four (24) hour basis, seven (7) days a week.

For on-premises permits no beer or liquor shall be sold between the hours of three o'clock a.m. (3:00 a.m.) and eight o'clock a.m. (8:00 a.m.) on weekdays or between the hours of three o'clock a.m. (3:00 a.m.) and noon (12:00 p.m.) on Sundays.

7. Are there additional costs associated with having a beer permit?

For beer permits only a privilege tax of $100.00 is imposed on the business of selling, distributing, storing or manufacturing beer in the state effective January 1, 1994 and each successive January 1. Any holder of a beer permit issued after January 1 shall pay a pro rata portion of the annual tax when the permit is issued.

For liquor permits, the annual privilege tax to be paid to the City of White House's Finance Director is defined as follows:

(1) Private Club - $300.00
(2) Hotel/Motel - $1,000.00
(3) Restaurant, according to seating capacity on licensed premises:
a. 75-125 seats - $600.00
b. 126-175 seats - $750.00
c. 176-225 seats - $800.00
d. 226-275 seats - $900.00
e. 276 seats and over - $1,000.00
f. "Wine Only" restaurant with 50 or more seats - $120.00

8. Are there restrictions on where beer can be sold?

No permit will be issued authorizing the storage, sale or manufacture of beer at places within one hundred fifty (150) feet of any church or school, as measured in a straight line from the nearest corner of the school or church structure to the nearest corner of the structure where beer is to be stored, sold or manufactured.

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Board of Mayor and Aldermen

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1. Who are the members on the City’s Board of Mayor and Aldermen?

Mayor John Decker, Vice Mayor Farris Bibb, Alderman Mike Arnold, Alderman Darrell Leftwich, and Alderman Jim Bracey Board of Mayor and Aldermen Information

2. When and where do the Board of Mayor and Aldermen meet?

The Board meets on the 3rd Thursday of every month in the Billy S. Hobbs Municipal Center at 7:00 pm.  Board agendas are posted on the city's bulletin board in City Hall and on the web page at www.cityofwhitehouse.com as soon as they are completed.  Notice will be posted as soon as possible, but no later than three days, before a Special Called Meeting. Board of Mayor and Aldermen Information

3. What must I do to have an item placed on the Board’s agenda?

Submit a written request to the City of White House, Attention: BMA Agenda, 105 College Street, at least fifteen days in advance of the meeting.  It may be that another board or commission needs to hear the issue before the Board of Mayor and Aldermen can act on your request.  In that case, the item will be forwarded to the appropriate board and notice mailed to you. Board of Mayor and Aldermen Agenda Information

4. How are the city's laws passed?

City laws are known individually as ordinances. Ordinances require two readings on two separate days by the Board of Mayor and Aldermen. Typically, these two readings take place at regular Board meetings in two consecutive months. At the first reading of the ordinance, a motion may be made to approve the ordinance, and a second is required. A voice vote of the five Board members is then taken, with a majority required to approve. Should the ordinance be approved, it is again placed on the Board agenda the next month. Before the meeting can occur, the title of the ordinance and a notice of public hearing must be published. This is done through a public notice of the meeting that is published in the local newspaper and on the city's website. Before second reading of the ordinance, a public hearing is held, where the public is invited to comment on the proposed ordinance. Then during the second and final reading of the ordinance, a motion to approve may be made, and a second is required. A roll call is then taken with each Board member individually voting yes or no to the ordinance. If a majority of the Board members vote to approve the ordinance, it is considered passed and final. The title of passed ordinances are then published in the local newspaper. Passed ordinances are then incorporated and bound together in the city's Municipal Code. This collection of ordinances functions as the city’s code or law book.

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Finance

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1. Who do I speak with about my property taxes?

Call (615) 672-4350 ext. 2100 City of White House Property Tax Information

2. Who needs a city business license?

The city follows the State Business Tax Act when determining who needs a business license.  Most businesses are required to obtain a city business license.  You may call (615) 672-4350 ext. 2100 for more information concerning business licenses. City Business License Information

3. Do I need a separate business license for the city and county?

Yes, if the county you reside in has a business license program, you will need to apply for a license with the county. City of White House Business License Information

4. How does the city contact parties interested in providing goods or services for the city?

Please contact Purchasing Coordinator Carol Sturmat (615) 672-4350 ext. 2106 for information about city purchasing guidelines and to be added to a bid list. When goods or services are needed, businesses on bid lists are contacted and/or requests for proposals are mailed. City of White House Purchasing Information

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Fire Department

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1. What is the difference between the City of White House Fire Department and the White House Community Volunteer Fire Department?

The City of White House Fire Department is a municipal fire department funded solely by taxpayer dollars and grants. The White House Community Volunteer Fire Department is a non-profit all volunteer agency that is supported by grants, some funding from Robertson and Sumner Counties, and primarily from donations from the community that it serves. The area that the City of White House Fire Department responds to is within the municipal city limits of the City of White House, and will respond outside the city for mutual aid responses to other departments. The White House Community Volunteer Fire Department responds to the areas of the counties outside the city limits of White House, as well as large areas of both Sumner and Robertson Counties. For insurance reasons, it is important that you know which agency will respond to your home in the event of an emergency. If you have any question as to who will respond to your home or business, feel free to contact the City of White House Fire Department at (615) 672-5338, or the White House Community Volunteer Fire Department at (615) 672-4030.

2. What areas does the City of White House Fire Department cover?

The City of White House Fire Department covers only the areas within the incorporated city limits. If requested for mutual aid, the City of White House Fire Department will respond with another agency outside the White House city limits. A good rule of thumb is if the City of White House provides your trash pickup, then you receive city services, including full-time fire and police protection. City of White House Fire Department Services

3. Do I need a burn permit?

Yes. Burning is permitted for homeowners, but only after securing a burn permit and agreeing to the burning regulations. These permits are free and can be obtained by visiting the Fire Department or online. Only vegetation grown on your property is allowed to be burned. Burning of trash, construction materials, etc. is prohibited by state law. Commercial burn permits must be obtained in person at Station 2, located at 120 Business Park Drive between the hours of 7:15 am -5:15 pm, Monday through Thursday. The fee for a commerical burn permit is $50.

4. If I live outside the City of White House, do I still need a permit to burn?

Yes. Burning in the counties, outside the city limits, requires a permit between October 15 and May 15. These permits may be secured by contacting the county in which you live at the following numbers: Sumner County (615) 824-3143 or (800) 337-3157; Robertson County (800)337-3157. It is also a good idea to contact your local fire department to let them know that you will be burning.

5. Can the Fire Department fill my swimming pool?

No. There are a number of reasons this is not allowed, including liability for damage to your pool, stagnant water in our tanks, and water that is not metered is considered stolen. Contact the White House Utility District at (615) 672-4110 about their policy on the filling of swimming pools. You may also contact the White House Wastewater Billing Department at (615) 672-4350 ext. 2106 regarding your sewer bill when filling pools. Download Wastewater Adjustment Request Form

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General Information

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1. What are the City of White House's business hours?

Monday through Thursday from 7:15 a.m. - 5:15 p.m.

2. As a citizen of White House, I'd like to volunteer my time to serve on a city-appointed board or committee. What should I do?

Contact the City Recorder's office at (615) 672-4350 ext. 2111 and ask for an application/information sheet to be emailed or mailed to you.  Once completed and submitted, your application will remain on file for a period of three years and you may be contacted when a vacancy occurs. City of White House Advisory Boards and Commission

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Hillcrest Municipal Cemetery

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1. Are there any restrictions on placing a stone to mark a grave?

Yes. Only upright markers installed with a base or flush markers are allowed. Before a stone is placed, the City of White House must be contacted at (615) 672-4350 ext. 2114. A $25 permit fee for setting a stone is required Download Hillcrest Cemetery Rules and Regulations

2. Is there an annual Decoration Day at the Hillcrest Cemetery?

The city holds Decoration Day in the fall at the cemetery. This is a time for citizens to remove old flowers and place new decorations on the graves of loved ones. Please call the Parks Department at (615) 672-4350 ext. 2114 to determine the next scheduled date.

3. What does a grave at the Hillcrest Municipal Cemetery cost?

All graves are $750 each. Cash or check only.
Download Hillcrest Cemetery Fee Schedule

4. Are Veterans’ Administration (VA) markers allowed at the Hillcrest Cemetery?

Only VA markers that are flush with the ground are permissible in the Hillcrest Cemetery. Download Hillcrest Cemetery Rules and Regulations

5. How much does the opening/closing of a grave cost?

The fee is $600 if a grave marker is already present. If a marker is not present, the fee is $800. The $200 difference is a deposit that will be refunded if the grave is properly marked within one year. Otherwise, the city will retain the $200 to place a flush marker to identify the grave. Download Hillcrest Cemetery Fee Schedule

6. How do I obtain ownership of lots purchased by my deceased ancestors?

1) Present a probated will; OR
2) Present an affidavit of heirship

An affidavit of heirship provides evidence of family history, so that the City can conclude who legally inherited the property owned by the deceased person.

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Human Resources

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1. How and where do I apply for employment with the city?

The City of White House has a centralized application process. Applications are accepted for posted positions only. All applicants must complete an Employment Application. Applications are available in Human Resources at 105 College Street or online. Once completed, the application must be mailed or delivered in person to the city’s Human Resource Department for consideration. Download Employment Application

2. What types of positions does the City have?

The City employes over 85 full-time employees. Jobs vary in nature such as accounting specialist, secretary, wastewater technician, sanitation worker, parks maintenance, police officers and others. The City also offers a variety of professional-level positions in the areas of management. City of White House Job Listings

3. What departments are included in the City organizational structure?

There are ten departments within the City: Administration, Engineering, Finance, Planning & Codes, Parks, Human Resources, Police, Fire, Wastewater and Public Works.
Download City of White House Organizational Chart

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Library

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1. How do I apply for a library card?

All residents of the White House community are eligible for a library card at no cost.  To apply, simply present proof of your identity and current address at the Circulation Desk.  Parents must sign for children under the age of 17.

2. How long may books from the library be checked out?

With few exceptions, books may be checked out for two weeks (with ONE renewal).

3. Do I have to stop by the library to renew a borrowed item?

Most items can be renewed by phone during regular library hours. Call the library at (615) 672-0239 for more information.

4. I would like to volunteer my time at the library. Who do I contact?

Please see Children’s Librarian Sherry Tackett for an application to become a library volunteer.

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Municipal Court

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1. When is my court date?

Your court date and time is at the bottom of your citation. If your court date is not legible, please contact the clerk’s office at (615) 672-4350 ext. 2137 to confirm your court date.

2. Where is White House Municipal Court held?

Court is held in the Billy S. Hobbs Municipal Building located at 105 College Street, White House, TN. View map to the White House Municipal Building

3. What if I can’t come to court on the assigned date?

Call the Court Clerk’s office at (615) 672-4350 ext. 2137 to explain your scheduling problem. The clerk will review your court date with you to resolve any scheduling issues. Please note: If your court date is changed by the clerk, you will not receive an updated or additional notice.

4. What if I do not want to attend court?

If you do not wish to appear in court, you must pay the listed amount for your citation(s) before or on your court date. Payment can be made in person or by mail. Only checks or money orders are accepted if mailing payment. Payment can be made in person at the clerk’s office, which is open Monday through Thursday, 7:15 am until 5:15 pm, except holidays. The clerk’s office is located at 105 College Street, White House, TN. If you fail to appear in court and payment is not received by your court date, an additional cost plus litigation tax will be due. Failure to pay traffic fines will result in the suspension of your driver license.

5. What if I would like to plead not guilty?

If you wish to plead not guilty to your citation(s), you must contact the clerk’s office at (615) 672-4350 ext. 2137 to schedule a not guilty court date. You will be assigned to a not guilty court date and the officer will be summoned to attend your trial.

6. What if I failed to appear in court?

First, call the clerk’s office at (615) 672-4350 ext. 2137 and inform the clerk of your failure to appear. You may then: 1) Pay the cost of the citation plus any late fees - or - 2) Write the Judge a letter explaining your absence in court and requesting a new court date. You may fax that letter to (615) 672-2939 or email it to sjessee@cityofwhitehouse.com. Please make sure to include your name, address and phone number so you may be contacted, if the Judge assigns a new court date.

7. What if I need American with Disabilities Act (ADA) accommodations to attend court?

Please contact the Court Clerk’s office at (615) 672-4350 ext. 2137.

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Parks & Recreation

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1. Who do I contact to reserve a city facility?

Please contact Linda Brooks in the Parks Department at (615) 672-4350 ext. 2114 or email her at lbrooks@cityofwhitehouse.com Parks Facilities and Rental Rates

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Planning and Codes

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1. What and how much are impact fees?

Refer to the Fees, Schedules and Permits portion of the Planning and Codes webpage for a list of permits and approximate costs.
Planning and Codes Fees, Permits and Schedules

2. When are permits required? And how much will they cost?

The White House Codes Department issues building permits for projects only within the city limits, except state electrical permits can be issued for projects outside of city limits. Permits are required to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to construct, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system. Minor exceptions apply contact Codes Office for further information. Contact Robertson County at 384-3666 and Sumner County at 452-14567 for permit requirements outside of the city limits. Planning and Codes Fees, Permits and Schedules

3. What is the difference between municipal limits, planning region, and growth boundaries?

The City’s Growth Boundary was approved under the State Public Act 1101. The growth boundary contains areas in both Robertson and Sumner County that are designated for future city limits of White House. The area was originally based on the area were the city would be able to provide city services within the next 20 years. The planning region is the area outside of the city limits within the area of growth boundary in both counties. The City’s zoning authority currently only applies to the municipal limits. Zoning authority includes uses permitted, density, parking, flood boundaries, etc. The areas within the designated planning outside of the city limits are under county zoning regulations. The city’s role in the planning region is to work with county planning offices to ensure proper planning of infrastructure including roads, utilities, and drainage in the Planning Region.

4. What are the regulations for fences?

Fences do not require permits unless they are part of a retaining wall or a wall constructed of concrete. However, fences are required to be off all drainage and utility easements.

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Police Department

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1. How do I speak to an officer to make a report?

If there has been an accident, please call the Police Department as soon as the accident happens to have an officer sent to the scene. Call (615) 672-4903 then press 0 if it is not an emergency, or if it is an emergency dial 911. You may also come to the Police Department’s dispatch office. They will call in an officer to take your report.

2. Do I have to register my fire/security alarm with the White House Police Department?

Effective May 1st, 2006 every person who shall own, operate, or lease any alarm system in the City of White House, whether residential or commercial, is required to give notice to the White House Police Department Records Section. No registration fees apply. An alarm user shall be charged a service charge of $25 (twenty-five) for each false alarm in excess of one (1) in any three-month period transmitted by any alarm system.  Such service charges shall be remitted to the city by the alarm user upon receipt of the statement for such service charge.  Questions may be directed to the Records Section at (615) 616-1077.

3. How do I get a copy of a police report?

Contact Records Division at (615) 616-1077, and they will assist you.

4. How do I get a warrant/civil summons?

To obtain a warrant/civil summons for private prosecution, you must make a police report with the local police agency. Once you have made the report, you obtain a copy and report to the Magistrate/Clerk of the county where the incident occurred.

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Public Works

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1. Why were bags of trash outside my can not picked up?

The Public Works Department only picks up refuse inside the trash container.

2. Who do I notify when streetlights are out?

Please contact the Public Works Department at 672-0215.

3. When is limb/leaf pickup?

The leaf and limb removal truck runs weekly on Fridays. For a regular schedule of pick-up days and locations please click on the more link for more information. More...

4. Does the city provide a recycling facility?

A recycling collection bin is available in the lower parking lot at the Billy S. Hobbs Municipal Center which can be accessed at the entrance on Hwy 31W.

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Wastewater

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1. Who do I contact about sewer problems or when the red light is flashing on my (or a neighbor’s) control panel box?

The city provides wastewater service 24 hours a day, seven days a week. During normal business hours (Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.), call the Wastewater Department at (615) 672-3654. After hours, dial the Police Department at (615) 672-4903 and dial 0 when the automated teller answers. Give the dispatcher your name, phone number and the nature of your problem, and they will contact a wastewater technician to respond.

2. Who do I contact with questions about my wastewater bill?

Call the Wastewater Billing Department at (615) 672-3654.

3. What are the boxes with red lights on the sides of some of the homes in White House?

These are control panels for homes on the low pressure sewer system. The newer systems have both an audible and red light alarm system installed on the control panel to indicate any malfunctions. Older systems have the red light indicator only.

4. Are there limits and/or restrictions as to what I can discard into the city’s wastewater system? 

Yes. Please contact the Wastewater Department at (615) 672-3654 regarding the disposal of any questionable items.
Wastewater Department Contact Information

5. Who is responsible for the maintenance of sewer equipment?

The city owns and maintains the equipment from the grinder wet well, including the control panel or the vacuum pod with the equipment within, to the main line connection. Homeowners are responsible for the line coming from the house to the wet well or vacuum pod, including cleanouts, air-intakes and splitter boxes.  

6. May my sewer bill be adjusted for water usage not going into the sewer system?

Yes. A sewer adjustment may be requested for certain scenarios. Download Wastewater Adjustment Request Form