How to Report a Broken City Street Light

Well-lighted city streets provide enhanced vehicular and pedestrian safety through increased visibility and crime deterrence. Like any other light source, city street lights sometimes need repair due to burn-out or damage. Depending on location and installation, city street lights are the responsibility of the city's Public Works Department who pays the a power company or a contractor to maintain and repair the light fixtures. In any case, the light needs to be fixed and the city may not be able to monitor all of them. This article list the steps to contact the city about a burned-out street light in need of replacement using your hard-earned tax dollars.
Difficulty: EasyInstructionsThings You'll Need:
Computer with internet access.
Telephone.
1Determine the location of the burned-out street light. Make sure it is within city limits and not the property of a private residence. Note the nearest intersection or street address of the light fixture.

2Search for and/or access the city website. If the city website has a search engine, try searching for "street lights" and select the most applicable link. Sometimes the website will have a page dedicated to information about the city street lights and how to go about reporting any problems.

3Report the need to repair a burned-out street light by A) using an online service request application, if available, or B) finding the phone number for and calling the city's Department of Public Works during business hours.

4Whether the online form or the telephone method is used, give the location of the burned-out street light as best as possible. Ask for a follow-up in case the location cannot be identified or if the problem needs to be reported elsewhere