FAQs • McCook, NE • CivicEngage

Skip to Main Content

McCook, NE

Emergency Alert

EMERGENCY ALERT OUTDOOR WATER RESTRICTIONS UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE Read On...

Website Sign In

▼
Administration

Show All Answers

1. How do I start a business in McCook?: The City of McCook does not require a local license to do business; however, the State of Nebraska has certain requirements. View the Nebraska Department of Economic Development for more information.

2. How do I find current bid postings?: You can find open bid postings on our website or contact our office at (308) 345-2022 to inquire. Bid Postings

3. Can I sell items door-to-door?

Yes, however, it is unlawful for any itinerant merchant, peddler, or solicitor, other than a solicitor doing business by appointment, to engage in any such business within the city without first obtaining and possessing a valid registration permit in compliance with the City of McCook Code of Ordinances. In addition to the permit required, any person who shall sell edible products must also obtain the applicable food license or health permit under the provisions of state law. No permit shall be issued by the city without such proof being presented at the time application is made to the City Clerk for an itinerant merchant, peddler or solicitor permit.

Each individual selling shall complete an application and present a valid driver's permit for or other acceptable form of identification and file with the City Clerk a written sworn application signed by the applicant.

Upon receipt of the application(s), a copy shall be referred to the Chief of Police, who shall within three work days determine whether the application shall be approved or denied pursuant to City of McCook Code of Ordinances § 112.06. The City Clerk shall then notify the applicant of such approval/denial and issue a permit only upon approval.

Additional questions should be directed to the City Clerk's office at (308) 345-2022. Application-Itinerant Merchant,Peddler,Solicitor

4. Where do I take my driver's license exam?: Contact the Red Willow County Driver's Exam Office at 502 Norris Avenue or call (308) 345-4139.

▼
Airport

Show All Answers

1. How can I find the flight schedule and book a flight out of McCook Ben Nelson Regional Airport?: You can visit the Denver Air website or call (866) 373-8513.

2. Where does Denver Air fly to?: Currently, Denver Air flies into Denver International Airport.

3. Does the airport have a Fixed Base Operator (FBO)?: Yes, the FBO is Red Willow Aviation.

▼
Ball Parks

Show All Answers

1. How do I reserve a ball field?: You can reserve a ball field for competition play by calling the city offices at (308) 345-2022, ext. 230.

2. Can I practice on one of the game fields?: No, the City does not allow practice on the game fields with the exception of Legion / MCC baseball and high school / MCC softball. The city maintains nine practice fields.

3. Does the city operate a Recreation Department?: No, recreation opportunities are organized through the YMCA and McCook Little League Baseball.

▼
Building & Zoning

Show All Answers

1. Do I need a building permit?: Yes. No construction can begin in the City of McCook unless a separate building permit for each building or structure has first been obtained from the building inspector.
To schedule an inspection, contact Building Inspector and Code Compliance Officer Barry Mooney at (308) 345-2022 ext. 232 or email bldginsp@cityofmccook.com.

2. Where can I get a building permit application?: You can obtain an application for a building permit at the office of the Building Inspector at 505 W. C Street. The cost of the permit is based on the size of the project.

3. Who has to be insured and licensed to do construction work in the City of McCook?: Any building contractors operating in the city must furnish $300,000.00 contractors liability insurance, with the City of McCook listed as a certificate holder and be a licensed contractor with the City of McCook prior to the issuance of each building permit. Contact the Building Department at (308) 345-2022, ext. 232 for more information.

▼
Cemetery

Show All Answers

1. Does the City of McCook have a directory for the cemeteries?: Yes, the directory is located in Memorial Park Cemetery, at West J Street and West 14th Street. It contains records of Riverview Cemetery also.

2. Does the City of McCook charge a perpetual care fee?: Yes, a one-time fee of $150 for each space or niche purchased will provide for eternal care of the cemeteries.

▼
City Clerk

Show All Answers

1. Where do I get an application for handicapped parking permit?: The DMV has implemented an electronic system for accepting and processing handicapped parking permits from allowed health care providers online. This eliminates the burden on you, the patient to carry around the paper application to different parties (city office, doctor's office), as well, as speeds up the processing of the application allowing you to have the permit within one to two work DAYS compared to one to three WEEKS! Click on the link provided for more information.
Handicap Permit Reference Guide

2. Where do I pay my court fines?: The City of McCook does not have a municipal court. Court fines are paid through the Red Willow County Court located at 502 Norris Avenue. For more information, please call (308) 345-1906.

3. Where do I apply for a passport?: You must apply in person at the Red Willow County District Court office located at 502 Norris Avenue. For more information, please call (308) 345-4583.

▼
City Manager

Show All Answers

1. When and where are City Council meetings?: City Council meetings are every first and third Monday at 5:30 pm in the Council Chambers of the City Auditorium at 505 West C Street.

2. How do I apply for a job with the city?: Contact our Human Resource Officer at (308) 345-2022 ext. 220 to inquire about job openings and request an application for employment. You may also download an application for employment from our website. Online applications are accepted for most positions unless stated otherwise. Please contact us to verify receipt of your online application. Employment Opportunities

3. How do I report a property nuisance?: Contact Public Works Office Assistant at (308) 345-2022 ext. 230 to report a nuisance or concern.

4. Where do I find City Ordinances?: You can find hard copies of the McCook City Ordinances at the City Administration Office, McCook Public Library or the McCook Police Department. You can also view and search the ordinances online. For more information, please contact the McCook City Offices at (308) 345-2022. City of McCook Ordinances

▼
Cross-Connection Survey

Show All Answers

1. I received a Cross Connection Survey with my water bill. How do I complete it online?: For your convenience in completing the Cross-Connection Survey, you may complete and submit the form online. Thank you for your participation and cooperation! If you have questions, please contact the Utilities Department at (308) 345-2022, ext. 222. Survey

▼
Fire Department

Show All Answers

1. How can I join the Fire Department?: To join, you must be at least 18 years old and willing to donate your time, energy, and knowledge to help others and your community.
For more information, please contact the Fire Department at (308) 345-5710.

2. Where or how can I get an open burn permit?: To get an open burn permit, contact the McCook Fire Department at (308) 345-5710.

3. Where can I find information for a firework stand license?

It shall be unlawful for any person to sell, hold for sale, or offer for sale as a distributor, jobber, or retailer any fireworks without first obtaining a license from the State Fire Marshal for that calendar year. Licensed vendors shall only sell fireworks that have been approved by the State Fire Marshal and such permissible fireworks may be sold at retail between June 28 and July 4 of each year during the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

It shall be unlawful for any person to sell or offer to sell at retail within the city any fireworks, as defined and permitted under the statutes of the state, without having first secured a permit from the McCook Fire Department.

File with the Fire Chief all applications for permits by June 20 of the year for which the applicant wishes the permit to sell in June and July.

Print Application: Application for Firework License

▼
Home Page

Show All Answers

1. Do I need a building permit?: Yes. No construction can begin in the City of McCook unless a separate building permit for each building or structure has first been obtained from the building inspector.
To schedule an inspection, contact building inspector and Code Compliance Officer Barry Mooney at (308) 345-2022 ext. 232.

2. How do I apply for a job with the city?: Contact Human Resource Officer at (308) 345-2022 ext. 220 to inquire about job openings and request an application for employment. You can download an application by following the link below. Please keep in mind, applications are accepted only when a position(s) is open. Thank you for your interest in employment with the City of McCook! Application for Employment

3. How do I find current bid postings?: You can find open bid postings on our website or contact the City Offices at (308) 345-2022. Bid Postings

4. Should I fly my American flag full-staff or half-staff today?: Follow this link to find out how to fly the flag today.
US Flag

" >Click here...

5. How do I start a business in McCook?: The City of McCook does not require a local license to do business; however, the State of Nebraska has certain requirements. View the Nebraska Department of Economic Development for more information.

▼
Library

Show All Answers

1. What are your business hours?: The library is open on Monday through Thursday, from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm; Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm; Saturday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Closed Sunday.

2. Can I check out my books online?: No. You can view our card catalog online; however you do need to come into the library to check out your books. McCook City Library

3. Can I renew my books online?: No. You are welcome to call us at (308) 345-1906 and we would be happy to renew them over the phone for you if you are not able to come into the library.

▼
Parks

Show All Answers

1. What hours are McCook parks open?: McCook parks are open from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm.

2. Do you allow camping in any of the city-owned parks?: Yes, Karrer Park is open to camping and has seven electrical sites and modern restrooms. Our showers are currently out of order. Free will donations are requested.

3. How do I rent the lower shelter house in Kelley Park?: To rent the lower shelter house, please contact the City Offices at (308) 345-2022, ext. 230. Please stop into the City Offices located at 505 W. C St. to pay the $5 rental fee and pick up your "Reserved" sign.

▼
Police Department

Show All Answers

1. Why do I hear sirens the first Monday of each month?: Once a month, the National weather alert is tested and the sirens are activated to assure safe warning of the citizens of McCook in the case of an actual emergency.

2. What determines a 9-1-1 call?: 9-1-1 calls are to report emergencies only. Non-emergency calls should be placed to the Police Department at the administrative telephone number at (308) 345-3450. Of course, if there is any question at all, use the 9-1-1 emergency number, but keep in mind this line needs to be available for callers that do have emergencies.

3. How do I get a copy of an accident report?: There is a $2 charge if a person comes to the station to pick up a copy of the report. A self-addressed, stamped return envelope may also be mailed to the Police Department along with $3 and information regarding the report (name and date of incident) and the report will be mailed to you.

4. How do I apply for a job?: When a position is advertised in the newspaper, you need to fill out an application found at the city offices at 505 W. C Street and submit a resume. Further employment information is provided by city offices at (308) 345-2022. Employment Opportunities

5. How do I get my dog out of impound?: To get your dog out of impound, contact the McCook Humane Society at (308) 345-2372 Monday through Friday, from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm, and Saturday, from 12:00 noon to 4:00 pm.

6. How do I get my vehicle out of impound?: If you have not received a letter in the mail regarding the impounded vehicle, contact the Police Department at (308) 345-3450 for information.

7. How do I make an anonymous tip?: The information may be given online through Crime Stoppers or called in at (308) 345-5440. You may also contact the Police Department directly at (308) 345-3450.

8. How do I find out if my bicycle has been found by an officer or turned in to the Police Department?: Call in the description to the Police Department at (308) 345-3450 with an approximate date that it went missing, or come to the police station to look at the bicycles that have been collected.
The bicycle can also be registered with the Police Department by filling out a form provided by the department at:
526 W. B St.
McCook, NE 69001

9. How do I set up a tour of the Police Department?: Have a spokesperson for your organization call the Police Department at (308) 345-3450 to schedule a date and time to tour.

10. When is curfew?: Curfew applies to children under age 17. From September 1 through May 31, curfew is from 10:30 pm to 5:00 am Sunday through Thursday and 12:01 a.m. to 5:00 am on Friday and Saturday. From June 1 through August 31, curfew is from 11:00 pm to 5:00 am Sunday through Thursday and 12:30 pm to 5:00 am on Friday and Saturday.

▼
Sewer

Show All Answers

1. Who do I call if I have a sewer back-up?: If you have a sewer back-up during normal business hours (Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 4:30 pm), call the city office at (308) 345-2022. After hours, on weekends, or on holidays, call the City of McCook Public Safety Center at (308) 345-3450 and the 24-hour on-call person will come to your residence or business.

2. If I have a sewer back-up, will the City of McCook fix it?: The City of McCook maintains the sewer mains. The sewer line that runs from your home or business to the main is the responsibility of the home or business owner. If a blockage occurs in the sewer main the city will make the repair. If the blockage is in the line from the house or business you will need to contact a plumber.

3. How does the city figure my sewer usage?: Sewer usage is based on the amount of water that is recorded by your water meter during the months of December, January, and February. The usage during these three winter months is averaged and you are billed that average throughout the year.

▼
Streets

Show All Answers

1. Do I need a permit to add a curb cut or increase the size of my curb cut?: Yes, the city approves the location and width of the curb cut and inspects the approach before concrete can be poured.

2. Do I need a permit to replace a public sidewalk?: Yes, any new construction or repair of existing sidewalks must be approved by Public Works Director Kyle Potthoff. You may reach him by calling (308) 345-2022 ext. 231.

▼
Transfer Station / Collection / Recycling

Show All Answers

1. Do I have to pay for disposal of construction material?: Yes, the city charges for all construction and demolition material brought into the transfer station.

2. What items will the City of McCook pick up?: For individuals who have a trash account with the City of McCook, the city will pick up household goods and brush.
Items banned from the transfer station are appliances filled with freon, paint (liquid form), lead, acid batteries, waste oil, tires, and yard waste (April through November).

3. Is there an additional fee for me to bring out household goods or brush to the transfer station if I pay a monthly trash bill?: No, if you have a monthly, residential trash account with the city, there is no additional fee charged to you for bringing household goods, brush, or yard waste to the transfer station.
Items banned from the transfer station are appliances filled with freon, paint (liquid form), lead, acid batteries, waste oil, tires, and yard waste (April through November).

4. Where can I drop off recyclables after hours?: We have a recycling trailer located on the east side of McCook Community Hospital, as well as cardboard containers at Highland Park and south of the City Auditorium.

5. What items does the recycling center accept?

#1 plastic (pop bottles)
#2 plastic (milk jugs)
#2 colored plastic (laundry jugs)
Aluminum cans
Appliances that are freon free
Automotive batteries
Cardboard
Junk mail
Magazines
Newspaper
Office paper
Scrap iron
Tin cans

▼
Water Department

Show All Answers

1. Can I pay my utility bill online or with a credit card?: The City of McCook accepts Visa, Mastercard and Discover payments over the counter or online. To pay your bill online, go to https://www.municipalonlinepayments.com/mccookne and setup your online bill-pay account first. If you have any questions, contact us at (308) 345-2022, option 1.

2. Who do I call if I have a water leak and need my water turned off?: If you need your water turned off during business hours (Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 4:30 pm), call the City of McCook at (308) 345-2022 ext. 222 and a water tech will be sent to turn off your water at the curb stop.
If you have an emergency and need your water turned off after hours, on weekends or holidays call the City of McCook Public Safety Center at (308) 345-3450 and they will have the 24-hour on-call person for the Water Department come and shut off your water.

3. Does the Water Department fix the water line that supplies water to my house?: The Water Department installs and maintains the supply pipe, which is the pipe that connects to the water main and extends to the curb stop near your property line. The service line, which is the pipe that runs from the curb stop to your house, is the responsibility of the homeowner.

4. How do I set up an account and pay my bill?: To become a new customer or transfer services to a different address contact the utility billing clerk at (308) 345-2022 ext. 222. Customers are required to complete a utility contract and pay a utility deposit prior to the start of services. Bills may be paid by mail, by phone with a credit/debit card, or in person at the McCook Municipal Center, 505 W. C Street during business hours, or placed in the 24-hour drop box located on the southeast corner of the Municipal Center. Application for Water Service

5. What if I can't pay my bill due to COVID-19?: If you have been financially affected by COVID-19 you can fill out the COVID-19 Waiver Request form. This form will provide payment arrangement options.