How to use Dallas 311 to report non-emergency needs

City code violations are common Dallas 311 service requests, which can include illegal dumping of trash or high grass.

File Photo/Staff

North Texans know when an emergency happens, they can call 911 to reach the appropriate first responders. But what about those fallen traffic lights or damaging potholes? Who do Dallasites call when their daily life is being impacted by non-emergency needs?

Dallas 311 is the city’s non-emergency line that connects individuals with the appropriate city department or resource to address tons of everyday concerns across the city.

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What is Dallas 311?

Dallas’ 311 program is intended to be a “one-stop-shop” call center focused on helping residents report non-emergency issues and connecting those requests with the appropriate city department, according to the city’s website.

“We serve as the liaison between the resident and the department,” said 311 director Daisy Fast.

Service requests range from city code violations and malfunctioning traffic signal lights to reporting stray or injured animals. Residents can also report complaints about debris left behind at construction sites or hazardous potholes.

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Both residents and non-residents can make 311 reports, but some may only apply to residents, such as sanitation requests.

Fast said Dallas 311 was established in 1994 as part of 911 before becoming a separate department in 2008. The service is available 24/7, just like emergency services.

“We’re really just here to serve as the initial front door to the city of Dallas,” Fast said. “We do our best to connect the caller with whatever resources are available to us.”

Dallas 311 staff can also submit service requests on behalf of residents who may need assistance determining which type of request to file.

How do I make a Dallas 311 report?

Dallas residents can make a report by dialing 311 when inside the city limits or by calling 214-670-3111 from any location. Individuals who dial 311 outside city limits will not reach the department.

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If you are calling from outside city limits, Fast recommends calling the program’s alternate number or filing a report online at dallascrm.my.site.com/public/s.

Residents can also file service requests through the Dallas 311 app, which is available in English and Spanish.

What reports can I make to Dallas 311?

Code concerns have consistently been the most common report received by Dallas 311, Fast said. Those complaints can include high grass, illegal dumping, junk vehicles or other property issues.

Other common requests involve sanitation maintenance and repair, such as replacing a broken garbage bin, as well as parking complaints involving vehicles that appear to have been abandoned.

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Parking violation reports are primarily intended for abandoned cars rather than cars that have been parked on the street for a short period, Fast said.

Other issues residents can report include:

Hazardous sidewalks
Dangerous or falling tree limbs
Wheelchair ramp issues
Burned-out or broken traffic signals
Noise complaints
Smoke detector inspections
Stray animals

Residents can find a full list of available service requests on the city’s website.

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How long does a Dallas 311 report take?

It depends on the type of request. Fast said emergency requests, such as a traffic signal that’s been knocked out or another public safety hazard, are typically resolved within six to 24 hours.

Less urgent requests can take anywhere from a couple of days to several weeks. The majority of requests, Fast said, are handled within 14 days or less.

For those concerned about retaliation or being identified, some requests can be submitted anonymously. Fast said personal information associated with reports is kept confidential and is not disclosed by the city.

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