Waukesha Resident Guide

Welcome to Waukesha! We are so glad that you have chosen to call Waukesha home Our City has something for everyone, with award-winning parks, downtown shops and dining, summer music events, and so much more I hope that you take some time to explore this guide and understand all that Waukesha has to offer you and your family.

This guide will provide you with the necessary information you need for your home, such as garbage/recycling collection dates, information on permits for home improvements, what to do for fun, and other City services. If there is something you have questions about, please do not hesitate to reach out! The City staff are happy to assist you and answer any questions.

The City of Waukesha is truly a community, and one that I’m proud to be a part of. I hope that I get the opportunity to meet you at one of our City events or out and about in the community

Welcome!

Shawn N Reilly MAYOR OF WAUKESHA

Common Council

as of April 2024

District 1 | Mike Chrisien

P: 1-262-875-4860

E: alddist1@waukesha-wi gov

District 4 | Joe Piper

P: 1-262-896-0454

E: alddist4@waukesha-wi gov

District 7 | Daniel J. Manion

P: 1-262-542-5550

E: alddist7@waukesha-wi.gov

District 10 | Mike Anderson

P: 1-262-278-0504

E: alddist10@waukesha-wi.gov

District 13 | Dean Lemke P: 1-262-442-6237

E: alddist13@waukesha-wi.gov

District 2 | Eric Payne P: 1-262-544-4688

E: alddist2@waukesha-wi gov

District 5 | Peter Bartels P: 1-262-442-4998

E: alddist5@waukesha-wi gov

District 8 | Elizabeth Moltzan P: 1-262-349-4078

E: alddist8@waukesha-wi.gov

District 11 | Alicia Halvensleben P: 1-414-491-4544

E: alddist11@waukesha-wi.gov

District 14 | Rick Lemke

P: 1-262-442-2580

E: alddist14@waukesha-wi.gov

District 3 | Cassie Rodriguez

P: 1-262-225-1648

E: alddist3@waukesha-wi gov

District 6 | Jack Wells

P: 1-262-290-5103

E: alddist6@waukesha-wi gov

District 9 | Paul Wuteska

P: 1-414-554-9039

E: alddist9@waukesha-wi.gov

District 12 | Frank McElderry

P: 1-262-424-9137

E: alddist12@waukesha-wi.gov

District 15 | Cory Payne

P: 1-262-232-8318

E: alddist15@waukesha-wi.gov

City Council Meetings

The City Council meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month

The Public is welcome to attend, watch the meeting live via the City’s website, or watch recordings of previous meetings

Meetings can be viewed online at: waukesha-wi gov/meetings

The City of Waukesha, WI, is the seventh-largest city in the state with nearly 72,000 people.

Waukesha is the manufacturing hub of Waukesha County and home to many of the area’s largest employers The City strives to provide a diversified work environment, a balanced housing stock, and strong business opportunities. With a thriving historic downtown boasting concerts, a farmer’s market, a scenic riverwalk, and festivals, the City's location on the river, historic buildings, and strong artist culture, all contribute to its unique character. Waukesha also has great neighborhoods, excellent schools, and an award-

In 2018, the City Council participated in strategic planning sessions and adopted an updated City strategic plan The plan includes the following goals which continue to guide the decision-making of the City Council as they plan for the future of Waukesha:

All of these factors work together to help make Waukesha the perfect place to live, work, and play

It is your civic duty to vote in any and all elections that are held in a given year In order to vote in elections, you will need to be registered in the state of Wisconsin to vote at your current address.

Registering to Vote

You can either register to vote online at myvote wi gov, or by mail or in person at City Hall (201 Delafield Street) with the Clerk's Office

Note: If there is an upcoming election in less than 20 days, you can no longer mail your registration.

To register, you will need a valid Wisconsin driver's license or Wisconsin state ID along with a proof of residence document (list available at myvotewi.gov).

Finding Your Polling Place

Your polling location is based on your home address. You can find your polling place at myvotewi gov or on the Waukesha website homepage in the "My Services" box at waukeshawi.gov.

Absentee Ballots

Absentee ballots can be issued to any registered Wisconsin voter. Ballots can be requested for an entire year but MUST be re-requested for each calendar year's upcoming elections (unless you are indefinitely confined).

Absentee ballots can be returned in person or by mail Mailed absentee ballots MUST be received by the Clerk's Office on or before the election day to be counted.

In-person absentee voting is also available during business hours at City Hall (201 Delafield Street) two weeks prior to an election day Information about in-person absentee voting can be found at: waukesha-wi.gov/voting

Questions?

Any questions, comments, or concerns can be directed to the Clerk's Office by phone at 1-262-524-3550 or send an email to clerktreas@waukesha-wi.gov.

We do our best to keep the community informed about what's going on in Waukesha.

What's Up in Waukesha

Waukesha has a weekly e-newsletter that contains news on upcoming events, current projects, notable occurrences, and so much more! You can sign up for the e-newsletter at: waukesha-wi gov/newsletter

Connect with Us on Social Media

The City of Waukesha has a Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube account that provides the most up to date information in Waukesha You can find us @CityOfWaukesha on each of the social platforms listed above

City Connection

Watch meetings and other Waukesha-related content on our public access channel on our website at waukesha-wi.gov/cc or on YouTube at youtube com/@waukeshacityconnection

The News Splash

Mailed with your water bill each month is a onepage newsletter highlighting current projects, upcoming waste collections, and upcoming events around Waukesha

The Works Space Newsletter

This quarterly newsletter looks at what's going on in our Public Works department with current projects, information about Waukesha Metro Transit, and more! This newsletter is mailed to residential homes The Works Space Newsletter can also be viewed online at: waukesha-wi.gov/worksspace

There are also weekly project updates on all city construction projects available on our website at: https://www waukesha-wi gov/projects

Fire Department Newsletter

This quarterly newsletter gives you a glimpse of what is going on with the Fire Department From basic home safety tips, fire prevention advice, and more, the Fire Department wants to be sure that you and your family remain safe! You can view copies on the City website at: waukesha-wi.gov/fdnewsletter

Parks, Recreation, & Forestry Activity Guide

The Waukesha Parks, Recreation, & Forestry department directly mails three seasonal activity guides per year to residents in early December (winter/spring), mid-April (summer), and midAugust (fall) Activity Guides can also be found online at: waukesha-wi.gov/activityguide

Your Home

Utilities

Electricity & Natural Gas

We Energies is the provider of all electricity and natural gas for properties in Waukesha. We Energies also provides programs to help you make your home more energy efficient and save on your energy bills

To start or move your service to a new address, visit we-energies.com.

Water & Wastewater

Waukesha Water Utility (WWU) provides clean, safe water to homes and businesses throughout the City of Waukesha, and the City's Clean Water Plant treats wastewater to a high standard and returns it to the environment. Please call 1-262-521-5272 to set up your account, or feel free to email your information to contactus@waukesha-water com

Once you have an account established, you can expect a water and wastewater bill once a month

More information can be found at: waukesha-water.com

Great Lakes Water Project

The water utility is nearing completion of a project to construct pipelines to carry freshwater from Lake Michigan to the City of Waukesha. This project will provide a long-term, sustainable water supply The project is on track to be completed in Fall 2023. You can find more information at greatwateralliance.com

Internet, Phone & TV

Internet services are available through much of Waukesha with AT&T, Spectrum, T-Mobile, CenturyLink, and many other smaller providers.

AT&T, Spectrum, and CenturyLink offer in-home landline phone services in Waukesha, and most major cell phone providers maintain networks in the Waukesha area, providing strong signals.

Spectrum offers cable television to the area and Satellite services are available with DirectTV.

Over the air antennas can typically pick up

Milwaukee's local stations

Many of the carriers listed above offer bundles when bundling internet, home phone, mobile phone, and TV packages.

High-Efficiency Fixture Rebates

As part of an effort to conserve water, the Waukesha Water Utility (WWU) offers a program for replacing old toilets (up to $100 rebate), old shower heads (up to $25 rebate), and installing rain barrels (up to $20 rebate) at your home.

For more information about this program and similar programs, visit: waukesha-water com/wtc html

Annual Sprinkling Ordinance

City Ordinance 13 11 is the City of Waukesha's annual sprinkling ordinance that is in effect from May 1st through October 1st before 9:00 a.m. or after 5:00 p m Odd-numbered addresses can be sprinkled on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Evennumbered addresses can be sprinkled on Thursdays and Sundays

Additional sprinkling tips can be found at: waukesha-water com/so html

Water Softener Optimization

Whether or not you use a water softener is your choice. After we switch to a new Lake Michigan water supply in late summer, if you continue to use your softener, you will need to have the softener adjusted, or "optimized". That's because Waukesha, like many other communities, is required to reduce the amount of salt in its wastewater Find out more information at: waukesha-wi.gov/softener

Forestry in the City of Waukesha

The forestry division of the Parks, Recreation, & Forestry department is responsible for planting and maintaining all City trees located in the public right-of-ways and all the trees in the parks. Trees located on the terrace (the grass area between the sidewalk and street) are city-owned trees and should only be maintained and trimmed by the forestry department to ensure proper tree health.

If a tree on the terrace requires trimming or other maintenance, please contact the Parks, Recreation, & Forestry department at 1-262-524-3737

Garbage & Recycling

Waste Management has been contracted by the City of Waukesha to collect garbage and recycling. Garbage is collected weekly, and recycling is collected every other week. You can find your specific collection day using our My Services portal on the City website homepage, waukesha-wi gov or find additional information on garbage & recycling at waukesha-wi.gov/wastecollections

Also on the website, you can find the recycling guide, which details the items that can be placed in your home recycling bin

Yard Materials

The City of Waukesha Department of Public Works conducts three pickup services throughout the year: brush and branches pickup in the spring, leaf pickup in the fall, and Christmas tree pickup in the winter

Learn more at: waukesha-wi.gov/yardmaterials

Hazardous Waste

Waukesha County operates three permanent household hazardous waste (HHW) drop-off sites at no cost to county residents; proof of residency is required. Learn more at: waukeshacounty.gov/hazardouswaste

Drop-Off Center - 750 Sentry Drive

Residents can dispose of yard materials, accepted landfill trash, and recyclables (cardboard, paper, bottles, cans, scrap metal, used oil/antifreeze, cooking oil). Additional fees may apply. The DropOff Center is open on Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p m year-round and on Wednesdays from April to November from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Learn more at: waukesha-wi.gov/dropoffcenter

Electronic Waste (E-Waste)

Certain electronics (including TVs) are banned from landfills by Wisconsin state law They should not be placed in the garbage or recycled at home or at work. The City of Waukesha offers TV, electronic, and appliance drop-off events for proper recycling.

These events are open to any resident of any community. Fees may apply for some items.

Learn more at: waukesha-wi.gov/ewaste

Paper Shredding

The City holds a few secure paper shredding events per year Please visit our website (waukesha-wi.gov/dropoffcenter) or check the weekly newsletter for upcoming dates.

Disposal Guide

Have some things you’re looking to dispose of, but you didn’t see them listed in this guide? Check out our online disposal guide to help you responsibly dispose of various household products ensuring the protection of the environment and your own personal safety You can find more information at waukesha-wi.gov/disposalguide.

Learn about how to properly dispose of the following items:

Appliances

Batteries

Light Bulbs

Paint

Personal Care Products

Sharps

Tires

And more!

Don’t Flush That!

Sometimes we forget that the toilet is not a trash can. All wipes and disposable cleaning products belong in the trash Even though some products are labeled "flushable," they should not go down the toilet as they can clog the sewer system, contributing to costly cleanups and backups.

Common Offenders (dispose in the trash can).

Disinfecting wipes

Paper towels

Swiffer mop refills

Toss-in toilet bowl wands

Shop towels/rags

Towelettes

Baby wipes

Thank you for helping to maintain the City’s wastewater operations!

Building permits, sign permits, special events, liquor licenses there are lots of permits and licenses for various requests in the City Some permits can be completed online, and others require a short visit to City Hall to speak with City staff about a project. Below is a small sample of commonly needed permits within the City of Waukesha. To apply for a permit visit: waukesha-wi.gov/permits

Building Permits

If you are making changes to your home or business structure, plumbing, electrical wiring, or adding external structures like decks, pools, garages, or sheds, you will likely need permits to begin. Permits are a way to ensure the safety of the work and verify compliance with municipal and building codes. A full list of building permit applications can be found on the city website at: waukesha-wi gov/permits

Burning Permits

The City of Waukesha Fire Prevention Ordinance prohibits outdoor burning within the City of Waukesha with the exception of bonfires, recreational fires, and cooking fires, provided they adhere to Waukesha Municipal Code 21.04. Contact the Fire Prevention Bureau with questions at 262-524-3648

Occupancy Permits

Occupancy permits provide assurance that a building or part of a building is in compliance with minimal health and safety regulations An occupancy permit is required for new residential, multi-family residential, and commercial buildings and any addition, change of use, business, or tenant in a commercial building. Contact the Community Development Department with any questions at 1-262-524-3750 or email them at buildingpermits@waukesha-wi.gov

Neighborhood Block Party Permit

Neighborhood Block Party permits are issued to residents in the City of Waukesha who would like to barricade the residential street they live on for a social gathering among the residents of a neighborhood. Neighborhood Block Parties are not intended for business entities For more information, visit waukesha-wi.gov/blockparty

Overnight Parking Rules

Night parking is restricted to even-numbered sides of the street on even days and odd-numbered sides of the street on odd days. The date after midnight will determine the even or odd numbered day

Overnight parking permits can be purchased at the Police Department (1901 Delafield Street), or at the South Street Municipal Parking Ramp (241 South Street) between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Alternatively, parking permits can be purchased online

Purchasing Permits Online

Parking ramp, parking lot, and overnight street parking permits can be purchased online at waukeshawi.cmrpay.com.

Please note: 3-day permits are not mailed if buying online; please print out a PDF of the issued permit and place it in your vehicle

Permit Placement

Parking permits should be displayed in the rear driver-side window of the vehicle designated on the permit so that the information is visible through the window

Snow Emergencies

In the event of a snow emergency declaration by the Mayor, there will be no parking allowed on any city streets or alleys until the street or alley has been cleared of snow per Municipal Code 7.06(4)

Additional Regulations

Additional regulations in regards to parking can be found in the Municipal Code Book Section 7 04 The Municipal Code Book can be found online at: waukesha-wi.gov/codebook

The Municipal Code Book for the city establishes everything from the format of our city government to licensing and permitting, property code and more As the Common Council passes or modifies ordinances, the code is updated. The Municipal Code Book can be found in its entirety online, and it's searchable! Find out more at: waukesha-wi.gov/codebook

Municipal Court

Our Municipal Court manages violations of ordinances within the City of Waukesha. You can check waukesha-wi.gov/court for dates when the court is in session

You can pay citations online or in person at the Municipal Court counter located just off the City Hall lobby (201 Delafield Street). Additional information about municipal court payments can be found at waukesha-wi gov/payments

Parking Citations

Parking citations are not handled by the Municipal Court but by the Waukesha Police Department.

Parking citations can be paid online, in person at the Police Department (1901 Delafield Street), over the phone (1-844-433-6093), or mailed in (P.O. Box 2060 Tarrytown, NY 10591-9060)

Additional information about parking citation payments can be found at waukesha-wi gov/payments

Property Assessment

The Waukesha City Assessor’s Office is responsible for the discovery, listing, and valuation of all real estate and personal property within the City of Waukesha in a fair and equitable manner in accordance with state law

Wisconsin law requires that property assessments be valued based on fair market value, meaning the price a typical buyer would pay for the property.

This is accomplished by considering what similar properties are selling for, the costs of replacing the property, the income and expenses a property may generate, and any other factors that may influence value

Have questions about your property assessment?

Call the Assessor's Office at 1-262-524-3510, email them at assessors@waukesha-wi.gov, or visit them at City Hall.

Property Taxes

Tax payments can be made online (some fees apply), paid by mail, paid in person at the Clerk/Treasurer counter at City Hall (201 Delafield Street), or dropped off in the secure drop box at City Hall (located to the left of the doors in front of City Hall). Property tax bills are sent out every year by mid-December. Residents have the option to pay the amount in full by January 31 or to pay in installments. Payment plan installments are due by January 31, March 31, and May 31. Learn more about your payment options at waukesha-wi.gov/taxes.

Have questions about tax payments?

Call the Clerk/Treasurer Office at 1-262-5243850, email them at clerktreas@waukesha-wi.gov, or visit them at City Hall.

Per Waukesha City Ordinance 6.12, it is the responsibility of property owners, occupants, or persons in charge of each dwelling or building to keep all sidewalks fronting or along the property clear of snow and ice.

When does the sidewalk need to be cleared?

Within 12 hours after the snow has stopped, sidewalks should be cleared of snow or ice After 12 hours the city can begin enforcement, if the city receives a complaint of a snow- or ice-covered walk.

Fire Hydrant Clearing

Street Plowing

The City Public Works crew closely monitors weather and street conditions during the winter

During a storm, please know that crews will be out on the roads. It’s important to note that the following are the priority areas in a storm:

Bus routes (which must be maintained at all times; buses are in operation between 6:00 a m and 11:00 p m on weekdays)

Hills Intersections

Main streets

Railroad crossings

Per Waukesha City Ordinance 6.12(6), property owners near a fire hydrant must remove the snow from the hydrant so it can be viewed from the street Failure could result in the city removing the snow and passing the charges on to the property owner.

Clearing snow from fire hydrants saves time for firefighters if they need to respond to an emergency.

School areas

Crews will get to all areas once the priority areas have been addressed Please be patient

In the unfortunate incident that the crews damage your mailbox while they are removing snow, you can report it on the City’s website at waukesha-wi.gov/report

After all the snow is removed from the streets, downtown snow removal can begin.

During an ice storm, all streets and alleys will be salted.

There are some rules and regulations regarding the animals that can be kept on your property. In addition, some animals require licenses or permits. Animal licenses can be applied for at the Clerk‘s Office in the Lobby of City Hall (201 Delafield Street)

The animal license application can be found on the city website at waukesha-wi.gov/permits.

Dogs

Every owner of a dog older than 5 months is required to obtain a license for each dog. There is a limit of 2 dogs (over the age of 3 months) in any dwelling unit More information about dog codes can be found in Waukesha City Ordinance 33.02.

Cats

Every owner of a cat older than 5 months is required to obtain a license for each cat There is a limit of 2 cats (over the age of 6 months) in any dwelling unit. More information about cat codes can be found in Waukesha City Ordinance 33.03.

Bees/Beekeeping

Residents are able to keep bees in the City of Waukesha provided that they apply for a permit. The number of hives you can have on your property are based on your lot size - but regardless, all hives must be at least 200 feet from all property lines and must be in the rear yard Full ordinances can be found in Waukesha City Ordinance 33.04.

Pigs & Goats

No pigs or goats are allowed to be kept within the City of Waukesha with a few exceptions. Residents may have Vietnamese Pot-Bellied Pigs (limit 2) and Nigerian Dwarf Goats (limit 3) For a full list of requirements and regulations, please review Waukesha City Ordinance 33.05.

Chickens & Other Fowl

The keeping of chickens is permitted within the City of Waukesha, provided that residents apply for a permit. There is a 4 chicken limit, with exceptions listed in Waukesha City Ordinance 33.07. Additional requirements and regulations regarding keeping of chickens can also be found in Waukesha City Ordinance 33 07 There are also regulations on chicken keeping enclosures and chicken coops. Those can be found in Waukesha City Ordinance 22.58(2)h.

The keeping of other fowl (including geese, ducks, turkeys, guinea hens, pheasants, and peafowl) is not permitted in Waukesha

Public Safety

The Fire Department provides the community with fire suppression, emergency medical services, fire prevention and inspections, juvenile fire education, special rescue services, and other community programs. The City of Waukesha has five fire stations strategically placed around the city Locations can be found at: waukesha-wi.gov/facilities

Make sure your place of residence has working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Need help installing or getting a smoke or carbon monoxide detector? The Fire Department may be able to help, please contact the Fire Prevention Bureau at 262-524-3648.

Phone Numbers

Non-emergency: 1-262-524-3651 | Emergency: 911 waukesha-wi.gov/fire

PulsePoint Respond & AED

The City of Waukesha is a PulsePoint Community. The PulsePoint app is utilized to notify off-duty medical professionals and citizens trained in hands-only CPR of nearby cardiac arrest events so they can start hands-only CPR during the crucial moments before EMTs arrive. The App can also help you locate an AED in an emergency.

Download the app now at pulsepoint.org/download

The Waukesha Police Department is responsible for the prevention and detection of criminal activity with three service divisions: patrol, special services, and investigation. The main police department is located at 1901 Delafield Street, and they have an additional substation at 2440 Les Paul Parkway to help serve all areas of the City of Waukesha.

The Waukesha Police Department is accredited by the Wisconsin Law Enforcement Accreditation Group (WILEAG) and adheres to the best core practices as defined by state statutes and the by-laws of WILEAG.

Phone Numbers

Non-emergency: 1-262-524-3831 | Emergency: 911 | Clerical Matters: 1-262-524-3770

waukesha-wi.gov/police

DRUG TAKE-BACK PROGRAM

Haveunwantedorexpiredprescriptions?Didyouknow?Youcandropthemoffatthe WaukeshaPoliceDepartment(1901DelafieldSt.)intheirdrugdisposalbox,whichis locatedinthelobby.Thishelpstokeepmedicationsoutofthewronghandsandoutof thewatersupply.

WE ACCEPT Pills Patches Creams Inhalers Liquids Ointments

WE DO NOT ACCEPT Aerosol cans Biohazard waste Restricted controlled substances Syringes

Community & Recreation

The Waukesha Public Library is the intellectual, cultural, and artistic hub of Waukesha, serving the needs of residents by providing print materials, emedia, and cultural and educational opportunities for all ages!

The Waukesha Public Library is a 71,566 square foot facility located at 321 Wisconsin Avenue in picturesque Cutler Park, in the geographic center of the City of Waukesha.

The Waukesha Public Library provides a range of services that include reference advisory, facility tours and instruction, and programming for all ages, including a summer reading programs, book discussions, cultural and artistic seminars, and computer instruction

How do I get a library card?

Library cards are FREE to any Waukesha or Jefferson County resident who presents a picture or photo identification and proof of current address Residents under the age of 18 are also eligible for a library card when accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who presents a picture ID and proof of current residency

The Waukesha Public Library is a member of the Bridges Library System, which serves all residents and taxpayers of Waukesha and Jefferson Counties. Your library card may be used at any library in the Bridges Library System

Prairie Home Cemetery (605 S. Prairie Avenue) is a significant historical landmark located in Waukesha, Wisconsin Established in 1850, the cemetery is home to many notable figures, including Civil War soldiers, politicians, and other prominent figures from Waukesha's past Visitors to the cemetery can take a self-guided walking tour to learn about the history of the cemetery and the people buried there With 70 acres of land, Prairie Home Cemetery features a natural landscape with hills, trees, and two water features, providing a peaceful and serene final resting place for loved ones

Services Offered

Prairie Home Cemetery offers a range of services to help families and loved ones during difficult times. These services include traditional burial plots, cremation burial options, and mausoleum entombment. The cemetery also offers various memorialization options such as benches, trees, and other personalized markers Additionally, Prairie Home Cemetery provides pre-planning services, allowing individuals to make arrangements ahead of time to ease the burden on their loved ones.

Hours of Operation

Administration/Chapel Building hours are Monday - Friday from 8:00 a m to 4:30 p m

Burial Service hours are Monday - Saturday from 8:00 a m to 2:00 p m

Additional hours available by appointment only

Contact Us

Phone: 1-262-524-3540

Office Hours: Mon - Fri 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Cemetery grounds are open to the public daily

waukesha-wi.gov/cemetery

Waukesha Parks, Recreation, and Forestry currently manages 50 parks on nearly 1,147 acres These parks provide both active and passive recreational activities ranging from soccer and tennis, softball and swimming, to biking, hiking, or quiet reflection in the Formal Gardens. A full listing of parks in Waukesha can be found at: waukesha-wi gov/parks

Beyond the parks, the Waukesha Parks, Recreation, & Forestry Department manages more than 900 recreational programs, two outdoor aquatic facilities (Buchner Community Room & Pool and Horeb Springs), a skatepark, multiple tennis/pickleball courts, a band shell (Les Paul Performance Center in Cutler Park), numerous park shelters (all available for rental), and so much more! Rentals are available at: waukesha-wi.gov/rentals

And if that wasn't enough, the Waukesha Parks, Recreation, & Forestry department also coordinates many of Waukesha's favorite special events like JanBoree (a winter festival held every January), Tribute Tuesdays (a summer tribute band concert series), Neighborhood Beer Gardens (a weekend beer garden in a few of our wonderful parks), and Operation Honor (an honor ceremony for veterans), just to name a few If you're looking for a fun time in Waukesha, check out the many special events at: waukesha-wi gov/specialevents

Waukesha is a great place to get out and stay active There is an Activity Guide that is published three times a year with sports, activities, and experiences for you and your family to participate in You can find the Activity Guide at waukesha-wi.gov/activityguide

Wisconsin's summers can get hot! Cool down at one of our two outdoor pool complexes. Buchner Park Community Room & Pool and Horeb Springs Aquatic Center both have plenty to do for a fun day in the sun!

Buchner Park Community Room & Pool

223 Oakland Avenue

Open Swim Area:

Lap swimming, volleyball, basketball, fitness bikes & aqua jog belts, a 1-meter diving board, lounge in the water under shade structures, or just enjoy the open water.

Children's Pool:

Family fun includes zero depth entry, a spray feature, & a small slide

Channel:

Gently ride along on a single or double inner tube during open channel time or workout against the current during open adult fitness times (16+).

Plunge Pool & Slides:

These are available with the Ultimate Pass or daily slide fee. Must be at least 48" tall.

Horeb Springs Aquatic Center

330 Spring Street

Open Swim Area:

1-meter & 3-meter diving boards, lounge in the water under shade structures, or just enjoy the open water.

Children's Pool

Family fun includes zero depth entry, a spray feature, & a small slide.

Plunge Pool & Slides:

Two 350 foot slides are available with the Ultimate Pass or daily slide fee Must be at least 48" tall

For more information about pool passes, swimming lessons, & more: waukesha-wi.gov/pools

COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES

Carroll University

1-262-547-1211

100 N. East Avenue

K-12 ADMINISTRATION

School District of Waukesha

1-262-970-1003

222 Maple Avenue

HIGH SCHOOLS

Catholic Memorial High School

1-262-542-7101

601 E. College Avenue

Waukesha Academy of Health Professions

1-262-970-3704

401 E. Roberta Avenue

MIDDLE SCHOOLS

Butler Middle School

1-262-970-2900

310 N Hine Avenue

Horning Middle School

1-262-970-3300

1809 Butler Drive

UW-Milwaukee at Waukesha

1-262-521-5200

1500 N. University Drive

Waukesha County Technical College

1-262-695-6500

327 E. Broadway

Waukesha Engineering

Preparatory Academy

1-262-970-3700

401 E Roberta Avenue

Waukesha North High School

1-262-970-3500

2222 Michigan Avenue

Les Paul Middle School

1-262-970-3105

325 Carroll Street

Waukesha Catholic - St. Mary

Campus (Grade 3-8)

1-262-896-2932

520 E. Newhall Avenue

Waukesha South High School

1-262-970-3700

401 E. Roberta Avenue

Waukesha West High School

1-262-970-3900

3301 Saylesville Road

Waukesha East Alternative School

1-262-970-4355

1150 White Rock Avenue

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Banting Elementary School**

1-262-970-1200

2019 Butler Drive

Beautiful Savior Lutheran School (K-8)

1-262-542-6558

1205 S. East Avenue

Bethesda Elementary School**

1-262-970-1305

730 S. University Drive

Christ The Life Lutheran School

1-262-547-7315

3031 Summit Avenue

Hadfield Elementary School**

1-262-970-1500

733 Linden Street

Hawthorne Elementary School**

1-262-970-1600

1111 Maitland Drive

Heyer Elementary School**

1-262-970-1705

1209 Heyer Drive

Hillcrest Elementary School**

1-262-970-1805

2200 Davidson Road

La Casa de Esperanza

Charter School

1-262-446-9901

410 Arcadian Avenue

Lowell Elementary School**

1-262-970-1900

140 N Grandview Boulevard

Meadowbrook Elementary School

1-262-970-2000

3130 Rolling Ridge Drive

Prairie Elementary School**

1-262-970-2205

1801 Center Road

Montessori School of Waukesha

1-262-547-2545

2600 Summit Avenue

Rose Glen Elementary School**

1-262-970-2405

W273 S3845 Brookhill Dr

Waukesha CatholicSt. William Campus (K3 - 2)

262-896-2920

444 N. Moreland Boulevard

Summit View Elementary School

1-262-970-2605

2100 Summit Avenue

STEM Academy - Randall Campus**

1-262-970-2300

114 S. Charles Street

STEM Academy - Saratoga Campus

1-262-970-2500

130 Walton Avenue

**The City of Waukesha Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department provides Before School, Afterschool and Summer School Wrap Around Care at 10 Public Elementary School Sites

The City of Waukesha offers several kinds of facilities to rent Whether you're looking for a private venue for a party, a room for a business meeting, or a pavilion at a park for a family reunion, we have spaces to make that happen!

Athletic Facilities

The City of Waukesha offers a variety of athletic facilities available for rent for large and small events. Rates and policies can be found online at: waukesha-wi.gov/athleticfacilities.

City Hall Room Rentals

Waukesha resident groups, non-profits, and elected officials can rent rooms within City Hall during business hours. Rooms contain whiteboards and AV equipment and can handle groups of up to 20 people comfortably Learn more waukeshawi.gov/cityhallroomrentals.

Pool Parties

Waukesha's two pools are available for private parties and birthday parties during the summer! More info: waukesha-wi gov/poolrentals

Private Building & Room Rentals

Building and room rentals are great for family parties, community meetings, religious services, weddings, receptions, and more! Learn more at: waukesha-wi gov/buildingrentals

Open-Air Park Shelters and Pavilions

Waukesha is home to 50 parks, and many of them have shelters and pavilions ready to host your get-togethers and picnics!

You can apply for a park shelter/pavilion rental online at: waukesha-wi.gov/parkrental.

There is so much to do around Waukesha and getting there is easy!

Plenty of Parking Downtown

Downtown Waukesha is a hub for shops, restaurants, and city events. With over 1,600 parking spaces within a half mile of downtown, you'll be sure to find a place to park!

Biking Around Waukesha

Waukesha has just over 10 miles of dedicated bike trails that connect to the Fox River Trail, Glacier Drumlin State Trail, the New Berlin Recreation Trail, and the Lake Country Recreation Trail. Our trails are also part of the Route 30 Bike Trail and Badger State Trail.

Waukesha Metro Transit

Waukesha has a fantastic bus system that connects the City through a central hub at the Transit Center in Downtown Waukesha. With 10 city-wide routes and extra routes out to Milwaukee and back, you can travel the region without much need for your own car! For more information go to: waukeshametro org

Metrolift

As part of the Metro Transit system, Metrolift is available for people unable to use fixed-route bus services in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Learn more about Metrolift and how to be certified to use it at: waukesha-wi.gov/metrolift

This is your community! There are many ways for you to make a difference, meet new people, and get involved!

City Meetings

Waukesha has many boards and commissions that meet regularly. You can attend these meetings in person or watch them online at: waukesha-wi gov/meetings

Citizen Board Members

Public involvement is crucial to Waukesha's decision-making process. You can apply to be a member of many boards and commissions and be a key decision maker at these meetings

Apply at: waukesha-wi.gov/citizenboardmember

Local Government Academy

The City of Waukesha, in partnership with Extension Waukesha County, hosts an annual Local Government Academy This hands-on program allows you to learn more about your city government and civic engagement opportunities.

Learn More at: waukesha-wi.gov/localgovernmentacademy

Citizens Police Academy

Even if you are not an officer, you can still volunteer your services to assist the Waukesha Police Department. Students of the Citizens Police Academy come together for 10 weeks to learn about the Waukesha Police Department through hands on learning and experiential demonstrations. Students get “behind the scenes” access to the real work lives of local Police For more information on this and other opportunities with the police department, visit waukesha-wi.gov/volunteerpd

Careers

The City of Waukesha is not only a great place to live but also a great place to work! The City offers competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and a stable work environment. If you are looking for a challenging, new position with an organization that is committed to helping the community, the City may be the place for you! Learn more at waukesha-wi gov/jobs

Volunteer Opportunities

Many of our city programs and events are only possible through the help of people like you! From helping with kids programming, to trash pick-up, to helping with special events, to taking photos, to helping senior citizens, to coaching youth sports... there is something for every interest and time commitment level! Learn more at: waukesha-wi gov/volunteer

Adopt-a-Park or Trail Program

Adopt-A-Park/Trail Program is designed to encourage the community to work hands on to help keep Waukesha's parks clean, attractive and safe for everyone This program offers the opportunity for people to get more involved in their community in a way that promotes pride, appreciation and awareness Learn more at waukesha-wi.gov/adopt

Voting

The best and easiest way to get involved is by voting! Voice your opinion with your vote. Need to register or update your registration? Visit myvote.wi.gov to find all your voting resources.

Sponsorships & Partnerships

The City of Waukesha hosts many events throughout the year. Frequently those events are sponsored by local businesses who want to support their community and grow their business simultaneously. Consider partnering with the City of Waukesha to demonstrate positive corporate citizenship and create greater visibility within the community No matter how large or small, every bit will help deliver excellent events and programs for our community. To learn more, visit waukesha-wi gov/spars

Citizen Involvement Groups

The City of Waukesha has various citizen-led organizations that citizens can join to support different city departments, including the Parks, Recreation & Forestry Department, Senior Advisory Committee, Police Department Citizens Academy, Friends of Prairie Home Cemetery, and Friends of the Waukesha Public Library These organizations and more provide ways for citizens to get involved and contribute to their community.

To find out more about these groups and find other groups, visit waukesha-wi.gov/cio

The City of Waukesha hosts many events throughout the year Check out the summary list of upcoming events below and enjoy a great time out in our community!

You can find a full list of upcoming special events in Waukes

JanBoree - Mid-January

Bright Future Family Adventure Walk - March

The Trailbreaker 5k/10k/Half & Full MarathonEarly April

Boots & Badges Basketball Game - April

Dia de los Niños - late April

Memorial Day Parade & Remembrance - late May

Buchnerfest - early June

Tribute Tuesday - 2nd Tuesdays in Summer

Riverside Rhythms - Wednesday in Summer

Monday Night Movies in the Park - 3rd Mondays in Summer

Waukesha Civic Band - Thursdays in Summer

Friday Night Live - Fridays in Summer

Independence Day Beer Garden, Fireworks & Hometown Parade - Early July

Jazz @ Cutler Park - July

Waukesha Night Out - August

Run with the Cops 5K Fun Run/Walk - August

Neighborhood Beer Gardens - August & September

Oktoberfest - Late September

Wauk-Tober Beer & Wine Walk - October

Waukesha Unlocked - October (Even Years)

Operation Honor - November

Waukesha Night of Lights - December

Waukesha Christmas Parade - December

Waukesha Walk of Lights - December

The City of Waukesha is an award winning community

Government Achievement Award - Wisconsin Land Information Association

Emerging Leader Award: Megan Roessler - Wisconsin Land Information Association

Patriot Award: City of Waukesha Metro Transit - Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR)

Ken Voigt Rising Star Award: Derrin Wolford - Institute of Transportation Engineers

Employer of the Century: Waukesha Fire & Police Departments - Waukesha County Technical College

National Accreditation: Parks, Recreation, & Forestry Department - National Recreation and Park Association

Tree City USA - Arbor Day Foundation

Gold Level Learn to Swim Provider: Parks, Recreation, & Forestry Department - American Red Cross

Top 10 Drug Recognition Evaluator: Detective Tyler Bauer - State of Wisconsin DRE Program

5,518 Tons of Leaves Collected

22,521 Police Calls for Service

1,490 Park, Rec. and Forestry Programs/Classes

9,234 Fire Calls for Service

4,080 Permits issued

1,071 Library Programs

Stay Connected

In 2024 the City of Waukesha launched a brand new podcast called Talkin’ Waukesha. Hosts Andrew Noffke, and Anthony Tirrell, lead you on a journey into the heart of Waukesha. Whether you're a local or just passing through, join us as we explore the stories, people, and hidden gems that make

Waukesha truly special. From community events to personal anecdotes, we're here to bring you the pulse of our vibrant town.

So, grab your favorite beverage, sit back, and let's dive in.

talkin’waukesha

Important Contacts

City Hall | 1-262-524-3500 (Hours: M-F 8 a m - 4:30 p m )

Assessor's Office | 1-262-524-3510

Building Inspection | 1-262-524-3530

Clerk/Treasurer | 1-262-524-3550

City Planning | 1-262-524-3750

Metro Transit / Metrolift | 1-262-524-3636

Municipal Court | 1-262-524-3705

Non-Emergency Police Department | 1-262-524-3831

Non-Emergency Fire Department | 1-262-524-3651

Non-Emergency Water Utility | 1-262-521-5272 (Hours: M-F 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.)

Parks, Recreation, & Forestry | 1-262-524-3737

Public Works | 1-262-524-3600

Waukesha Public Library | 1-262-524-3680

EMERGENCY SERVICES

Police & Fire | 911

Water Utility Emergency (M-F 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.) | 1-262-521-5272

Water Utility Emergency After Hours | 1-262-352-8020

REPORT A CONCERN

Waukesha's Citizen Request Portal provides citizens with a means to quickly and easily report non-emergency problems related to the City's infrastructure. Your requests will automatically be logged with the appropriate department for review In addition, you will receive an email confirmation that your submission has been received, as well as email updates as the issue is addressed Submit your concern at: waukesha-wi gov/report