Frequently Asked Questions - CivicPlus.CMS.FAQ

Create a Website Account - Manage notification subscriptions, save form progress and more.   

Kemah Texas Homepage
Search

Frequently Asked Questions

Below you will find information that might help you understand how to find things or learn about information you might need to know about your city or town.

General Information

10

  • City Hall is located just east of State Highway 146 at the intersection with Bel Road. Use the west entrance. Kemah City Hall 1401 Hwy 146 Kemah, TX 77565
    General Information

  • City Hall Hours Monday - Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
    General Information

  • Visit the FAQs in the category “Connections” for answers to many of your questions. If you still have problems, use the “Report a Concern” form “General Issue/Concern” to report your problem and someone will get back to you.
    General Information

  • The Kemah Police Station is located on the east side of Kemah City Hall, 1401 Hwy 146. More contact information is available at
    General Information

  • City Council meets on the first and third Wednesday of each month starting at 6:00 pm. Council Chambers are in City Hall at 1401 Hwy 146. More information is available if you view

    General Information

  • To find all department and staff contact information, visit the
    General Information

  • Visit City Finances.

    General Information

  • By contacting Galveston Central Appraisal District at 866-277-4725 or
    General Information

  • There is a link on the "How Do I" page. The more detail you can give the better. The email of your concern will then be forwarded to the appropriate person for handling.
    General Information

  • Please visit our Employment Opportunities page.

    General Information

City Facilities

2

  • The Community Center is located at 800 Harris Street, between the Holiday Inn and Hwy 146. Please see the Community Center web page for additional information and to download the rental application. You may also call City Hall at 281-334-1611.
    City Facilities

  • Some of the city parks have pavilions, but they are not for rent. You can use them on a first-come, first-serve basis. You cannot ask others to leave the park. Park hours are from dawn to dusk.
    City Facilities

Connections

3

  • To sign up for Agenda Notifications, you can create a Sign In account and be signed in, but you don't have to. Visit the Notify Me page and select the Agenda notifications you would like to receive and indicate whether you want them by email or text message. For each notification you request, you will receive an email that includes a link to confirm your subscription. Once you click that link verifying your subscription, you will receive another email showing that you have subscribed to the notification you chose.

    Connections

  • To sign up for Notifications or Alerts, you can create a Sign In account and be signed in or you can choose to sign up without an account. Notifications are available for Alerts, Job Postings, News Flashes, Calendar Items, and Agenda Postings. Visit the Notify Me page and select the notifications you would like to receive and indicate whether you want them by email or text message. For each notification you request, you will receive an email that includes a link to confirm your subscription. Once you click that link verifying your subscription, you will receive another email showing that you have subscribed to the notification you chose. Any time a change occurs that triggers a notification in that area, you will receive a notification.

    Connections

  • If you signed up for notifications and still are not receiving them, it may be because you didn’t do the final step and confirm your subscription. Once you select the type of notification you want to receive, you will receive an email from listserv@civicplus.com with a subject line: "Information on Your Subscriptions (Confirmation Needed)." It will ask you to confirm your new subscription by clicking on a link included in the email. It will also tell you which list it is in reference to. Once you click on the included link, you will get another email telling you that “You have been subscribed to list ___” and how to unsubscribe. You will have to complete these steps for each notification subscription.
    Connections

Emergency Managment

11

  • Visit
    Emergency Managment

  • Emergency preparedness means taking action to be ready for emergencies before they happen. The objective is to simplify decision making during emergencies.
    Emergency Managment

  • Emergency preparedness refers to actions which can and should be performed prior to an emergency, such as planning and coordination meetings, procedure writing, team training, emergency drills and exercises, and prepositioning of emergency equipment. Emergency response refers to actions taken in response to an actual, ongoing event.
    Emergency Managment

  • It is everyone’s responsibility to be prepared for emergencies. Initially, emergency services will be consumed with responding to the disaster. It is up to each of us to prepare. Planning in advance will help you, your family and friends manage an emergency in a calm and effective way, which will help keep you safe.
    Emergency Managment

  • Families should develop an emergency plan to prepare their home, family, and office in case of a natural disaster or other emergency. > Get an emergency kit > Make a plan > Have extra cash, medication, water, clothing, and food on hand to be prepared > Have a list of family emergency numbers and school contacts > Have an emergency meeting place
    Emergency Managment

  • No. Evacuation is not the only protective action available to the public. In some situations sheltering may provide protection that is equal to or even greater than evacuation. Sheltering may be the preferred protective action in cases where weather, competing events, or short-term releases are factors.
    Emergency Managment

  • Sheltering in place is one of several response options available to emergency management directors to provide an additional level of protection in the event of an emergency. Shelter in place is a protective action designed to use an indoor facility, such as your own home or a public building, and its indoor atmosphere to shield people from a hazardous outdoor environment. Sheltering in place means persons will remain in a building until emergency management officials issue additional instructions or declare that the emergency condition has ended. It is a short-term option for limiting the potential exposure of persons to hazards that may be present in the outdoor environment. It will most likely be a matter of hours, not days.
    Emergency Managment

  • > 1 gallon of water per person per day > Food and manual can opener > Week’s supply of prescription medication > Battery powered radio, with extra batteries > Extra batteries for hearing aids or other assistive devices > Flashlight with extra batteries > List of contacts (e.g. family members, friends, doctors) > First aid supplies Any items you normally use or that you would need for three days should an emergency occur should also be included. If you have a pet, you will need three days’ supply of food and water for each pet. Should you have to evacuate, these supplies should go with you. More extensive lists and information can be found on websites dealing with preparedness, such as Ready.gov. It is also a very good idea to have a “go bag” ready in case you have to evacuate either your home or work place. This small bag could include those personal items you would need if you had to leave without any notice as well as copies of financial records, pet’s veterinarian records, extra keys for house and car, cash, spare glasses or other special needs items, such as medications, batteries for assistive devices and copies of family documents.
    Emergency Managment

  • The progressive levels of organized, disturbed weather in the tropics are: • Tropical Disturbance: This is a discrete tropical weather system of apparently organized convection, 200 to 600 km (100 to 300 nautical miles) in diameter, originating in the tropics or subtropics, having a non-frontal migratory character, and maintaining its identity for 24 hours or more. • Tropical Depression: This is a tropical cyclone with a closed circulation in which the maximum sustained wind speed 38 mph or less. • Tropical Storm: This is a tropical cyclone in which the maximum sustained surface wind speed ranges from 39 to 73 mph. The convection in tropical storms is usually more concentrated near the center with outer rainfall organizing into distinct bands. The wind speeds mentioned above are for those measured or estimated as the top speed sustained for one minute at 10 meters above the surface. Peak gusts would be 10% - 25% higher.
    Emergency Managment

  • The following items are recommended for inclusion in your basic disaster supplies kit: • Three-day supply of non-perishable food • Three-day supply of water - one gallon of water per person, per day • Portable, battery-powered radio or television and extra batteries • Flashlight and extra batteries • First aid kit and manual • Sanitation and hygiene items (moist towelettes and toilet paper) • Matches and waterproof container • Whistle • Extra clothing • Kitchen accessories and cooking utensils, including a can opener • Photocopies of credit and identification cards • Cash and coins • Special needs items, such as prescription medications, eye glasses, contact lens solutions, and hearing aid batteries • Items for infants, such as formula, diapers, bottles, and pacifiers • Other items to meet your unique family needs If you live in a cold climate, you must think about warmth. It is possible that you will not have heat. Think about your clothing and bedding supplies. Be sure to include one complete change of clothing and shoes per person, including: • Jacket or coat • Long pants • Long sleeve shirt • Sturdy shoes • Hat, mittens, and scarf • Sleeping bag or warm blanket (per person) Be sure to account for growing children and other family changes.
    Emergency Managment

  • Whether for financial reasons or just because the need isn’t there, many families don’t own private transportation. When creating your disaster readiness plan, you need to consider other options for relocating to a safe place. First, if you are in an evacuation zone in Texas, call 2-1-1 to be listed for evacuation needs. Then, decide: • Do you have relatives who can pick you up? • Do you have friends who can take you with them? • Does your community have evacuation plans in place for those requiring transportation? Once you know what your options are, you can better prepare for the possibility of an evacuation.
    Emergency Managment

Fire Department

2

  • The Kemah Volunteer Fire Department is located at 905 Hwy 146. More Information is available at
    Fire Department

  • Simply call City Hall at 281-334-1611 and request that a fire inspection be scheduled. The contract fire marshal will schedule to visit your site.
    Fire Department

Code Enforcement

3

  • Please call 281-334-1611 or send an email the Permit Office.

    Code Enforcement

  • Report a suspected code violation or call City Hall at 281-334-1611 during regular business hours. Your care and attention help keep Kemah a beautiful and welcoming place for all.

    Code Enforcement

  • The adopted codes are documented City of Kemah Code of Ordinances.

    Code Enforcement

Police Department

8

  • The Kemah Police Department is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
    Police Department

  • Jail visitation is 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. - 5 p.m., limited to a 15 minute visit, once a day, immediate family only (no children). No food or drinks for prisoners.

    Police Department

  • Incident reports and accident reports may be obtained online 24 hours a day. Citizens can perform simple searches regarding police incidents/arrests, and download reports from the
    Police Department

  • Review the Texas Transportation Code.

    Police Department

  • The City of Kemah no longer provides fingerprinting service to the public. To find fingerprinting services in the area, please click here.

    Police Department

  • The Police Department is located in City Hall, just east of State Highway 146 at the intersection with Bel Road. Please use the east entrance. Kemah City Hall 1401 Hwy 146 Kemah, TX 77565 More information is available at their
    Police Department

  • Yes, the City of Kemah enforces a noise ordinance. Please review the entire ordinance at the
    Police Department

  • Yes, you may review the entire ordinance here:
    Police Department

Utilities

3

  • Residential garbage pickup is contracted through AmeriWaste.  

    AmeriWaste-flier-2023-09_Page_1

    Utilities

  • Determine the 6 number code that is located on the pole of the street light that is out. Then contact CenterPoint Energy by phone (713-207-2222) or at
    Utilities

  • Water service in most of Kemah is provided by Galveston County Water Control and Improvement District #12. Some areas are supplied by Bayview Municipal Utility District. Please contact the appropriate entity to arrange service. Contact information is available on
    Utilities

Municipal Court

3

  • All tickets are paid through Kemah Municipal Court at Kemah City Hall – use the North entrance marked “Court Clerk.” . To make a payment online, click here.

    Municipal Court

  • Yes, you can pay your ticket online here.

    Municipal Court

  • You can check with Kemah Municipal Court by calling 281-334-5910.

    Municipal Court

Short Term Rental

9

  • A Short-Term Rental (STR) is a privately owned dwelling rented to the public for dwelling, lodging, or sleeping purposes for a period of less than 30 consecutive days. This includes:

    • Single-family dwellings
    • Multiple-family attached dwellings
    • Apartment houses
    • Condominiums
    • Duplexes
    • Mobile homes
    • Portions of any such dwellings


    Short Term Rental

  • Yes, it is unlawful to rent or advertise any Short-Term Rental without a valid permit issued by the City of Kemah.

    Short Term Rental

  •  The standard STR permit fee is $450. However, owners who provide proof of an approved sound monitoring system may receive a credit of up to $150.

    Short Term Rental

  • An STR permit is valid for one calendar year, expiring on December 31st, regardless of the date it was issued. Permits for the upcoming year can be applied starting November 1st, and they must be renewed annually to remain compliant.

    Short Term Rental

  • The following properties are exempt from STR regulations under this article:

    • Hotels and motels
    • Dormitories
    • Public or private clubs
    • Recreational vehicle (RV) parks
    • Hospitals and medical clinics
    • Nursing homes or convalescent homes
    • Foster homes, halfway houses, and transitional housing facilities
    • Housing operated exclusively for religious, charitable, or educational purposes
    • Government-owned housing used to accommodate employees or for governmental purposes


    Short Term Rental

  • Applicants must provide the following information:

    • Owner’s and operator’s contact details (name, address, email, and phone).
    • Local contact person’s 24-hour contact details.
    • Address of the STR.
    • Maximum occupancy (generally two persons per bedroom, plus two).
    • Maximum on-site parking spaces.
    • Certification of compliance with health and safety standards.
    • A floor plan and site plan showing parking availability.
    • A list of all advertised rental platforms.
    • If the owner is a business entity, the trade name and details of registered agents.
    • Acknowledgment of receipt of STR regulations and agreement to comply.
    Short Term Rental

  • A property qualifies as an STR if rented for less than 30 consecutive days. Rentals of 30 days or more are not subject to these regulations.

    Short Term Rental

    • Submit a complete application with the required information and fee.
    • Receive a provisional 30-day permit based on the owner's certified statements.
    • Allow the city to inspect within 30 days to confirm health, safety, and occupancy standards compliance.
    • Upon passing the inspection, the City will issue the final permit, valid for the remainder of the calendar year.
    Short Term Rental

    • Penalties: Violations may result in fines of up to $400 per day for repeated offenses.
    • Permit Suspension or Revocation: Multiple violations, including noise complaints or failure to comply with health and safety standards, can lead to permit suspension or revocation.
    • Civil Penalties: If the police are summoned to address violations, a $350 "call-out fee" may be assessed

    Owners have the right to appeal permit suspensions or revocations.

    Short Term Rental

Kemah Community Development Corporation

5

  • The Kemah Community Development Corporation is a nonprofit corporation governed by Section 4B of the Texas Development Corporation Act of 1979.

    The purpose of the KCDC is to encourage the retention of business enterprises within the City of Kemah and the promotion and development of new and expanded business enterprises in the City to promote and encourage economic growth of the City and the full employment, welfare, and prosperity of its citizens as provided by the Development Corporation Act of 1979, as amended.


    The KCDC is funded through a 1/2 cent sales tax approved by the voters of Kemah and is managed by a board of directors appointed by the Kemah City Council. Its operating and capital budgets are also approved by the Kemah City Council.

    The KCDC facilitates community and economic development through a variety of tools, including:

    • Economic Incentives
    • Site selection assistance
    • Strategic partnerships
    • Community Enhancements
    • Small business resources
    • Business retention and expansion efforts
    Kemah Community Development Corporation

  • Kemah isn’t just a place—it’s a Destination for Opportunity.

    Located along the stunning Galveston Bay, Kemah is where businesses thrive, innovation flourishes, and opportunities abound. Here's why Kemah is the perfect place to grow your business:

    • Prime Location: As a coastal gem, Kemah attracts millions of visitors annually, creating exceptional visibility and customer traffic for businesses.
    • A Hub for Tourism: Renowned for its iconic boardwalk, world-class dining, and unique attractions, Kemah offers the perfect platform to engage with a diverse and enthusiastic audience.
    • Business-Friendly Support: The Kemah Community Development Corporation takes a creative, tailored approach to economic development, offering flexible incentives and resources designed to meet the unique needs of your business while maximizing benefits for the entire community.
    • Thriving Community: Kemah’s strong sense of community fosters collaboration and connection, ensuring local businesses feel supported and valued.
    • Unmatched Lifestyle: With its waterfront charm, vibrant culture, and year-round events, Kemah is more than a great place to do business—it’s an incredible place to live and enjoy life.

    In Kemah, opportunity isn’t just a possibility—it’s a destination. Let us help you turn your vision into reality and make Kemah your Destination for Opportunity.

    Kemah Community Development Corporation

  • Yes, the Kemah Community Development Corporation (KCDC) takes a creative and flexible approach to economic development incentives, tailoring solutions to align with the specific needs of each business and the opportunities their development brings to the community. 

    For more information regarding economic development incentives available in Kemah, reach out to staff.

    Kemah Community Development Corporation

  • If you are planning on locating a small business in Kemah, a variety of incentives may be available. The Kemah Community Development Corporation (KCDC) takes a creative and flexible approach to economic development incentives, tailoring solutions to align with the specific needs of each business and the opportunities their development brings to the community. 

    Kemah Community Development Corporation

  • Our team is here to guide you every step of the way in finding the perfect location for your business in the City of Kemah. Explore our Available Properties page to discover a selection of sites currently available in Kemah, and let us help you make your vision a reality.

    Kemah Community Development Corporation

Permitting

11

  • Most construction, remodeling, or repair projects require a permit. This includes work on electrical, plumbing, mechanical systems, structural changes, and additions. Always check with the Building Department before starting any work.

    Permitting

  • You can apply for a building permit through the MyGov Portal. Detailed requirements, forms, and fee information are available on the Compliance web page.

    Permitting

  • The review time for permit applications can vary. Simple projects may be approved within a few days, while more complex projects might take several weeks. It's advisable to submit applications well in advance of your planned start date.   

    Permitting

  • Kemah has adopted the latest International Code Council (ICC) codes and the National Electrical Code (NEC) as of November 1, 2022. For a comprehensive list, refer to the Applicable Codes section of the Code Enforcement page.

    Permitting

  • Residential projects require a digital copy of the permit application and complete construction documents. Specific requirements include site plans, floor plans, elevation plans, structural plans, foundation plans, and more. Detailed information can be found in the Residential Building Checklist.

    Permitting

  • Commercial projects necessitate a pre-development meeting and submission of various documents, including site plans, architectural sheets, structural plans, MEP plans, and more. For a comprehensive list, refer to the Commercial Building Checklist.

    Permitting

  • Yes, properties located within Special Flood Hazard Areas must comply with regulations outlined in Chapter 46 of the City Code, as well as federal and state floodplain management regulations. An elevation certificate and a form survey sealed by a licensed surveyor are required prior to scheduling a foundation inspection.

    Permitting

  • You can use the FEMA Flood Map Service Center to find official flood maps and hazard information. Additionally, you may visit City Hall to review your address on the flood zone map.

    Permitting

  • Inspections can be scheduled through the MyGov Portal. Ensure that all work is ready and accessible for inspection on the scheduled date.

    Permitting

  • Inspections can be scheduled through the MyGov Portal. Ensure that all work is ready and accessible for inspection on the scheduled date.

    Permitting

  • Building permits are valid for 9 months from the date of issuance. If work is not commenced within this period, the permit may expire. For more details, consult the Fee Schedule.

    Permitting

Bids & RFQs

2

Local Business Directory

1

  •  Email for additions, deletions, or corrections.

    Local Business Directory

Kemah Business Alliance

4

  • Any business located in Kemah—large or small—is welcome to join the Alliance.

    Kemah Business Alliance

  • No. Participation is free.

    Kemah Business Alliance

  • Meeting schedules will be set after the kickoff, based on each sector’s needs.

    Kemah Business Alliance

  • No. The Alliance is a City-supported initiative focused on communication, collaboration, and problem-solving within Kemah.

    Kemah Business Alliance

  1. City of Kemah

  1. 1401 State Highway 146

  1. Kemah, Texas 77565

  1. Phone: 281-334-1611

  1. Accreditation

  1. Proud to be a Certified Scenic City logo

  1. Sol Smart

  1. Kemah Texas Homepage

Government Websites by CivicPlus®
Arrow Left Arrow Right
Slideshow Left Arrow Slideshow Right Arrow