What is a “9-1-1 address”?
The one and only address your structure will be assigned to use for the following:
- physical location of the structure
- location identification for 9-1-1 emergencies
- mailing address for home deliveries
- location identification for utilities
Why do I need a 9-1-1 address (actual physical address)?
- Get help in the event of an emergency! A 9-1-1 address can help direct emergency services to the correct location when you contact 9-1-1. First responders who are new to your community may be unfamiliar with the area. The 9-1-1 address assists them in responding to the correct location – seconds count in emergencies!
- Package delivery services (USPS, UPS, FedEx, etc.) require a 9-1-1 address to deliver packages.
- Utility services (telephone, electric, cable, internet) require a 9-1-1 address to start new service or respond to a maintenance call.
- Even if you use a PO Box for package delivery, you will need a 9-1-1 address for your property or structure.
When should I request my 9-1-1 address?
Before beginning to build or preparing to move a structure. See next question.
Examples: houses, mobile homes, hunting cabins, barns, shops, schools, garages, businesses, water towers, cell towers.
How do I request my 9-1-1 address?
If you need a 9-1-1 address, contact your city offices or county 9-1-1 Addressing Coordinator. Click button below:
If you need a WCTCOG 9-1-1 Addressing Request Form, click button below:
If you need to verify a 9-1-1 address for an existing structure, click button below:
Where & how should I display my 9-1-1 address?
All homes, property, and businesses need a 9-1-1 address posted to help emergency responders locate you in an emergency. Your address should be clearly visible during both day and night. Displaying your address could help save a life! The following are helpful guidelines:·
- 3” letters/numbers are recommended in urban areas, facing the correct street, in 3 locations: on your house under a light, another location in front of your house such as a curb or tree, and in your alley. If a well-lit area is not available, use high contrast colored letters/numbers.
- 6” reflective letters/numbers are recommended in rural areas, facing the correct road, on mailbox (on both sides) or entrance to property on gate/post.
- If you have a long or shared driveway, post address at the end of the driveway and ensure each building has the correct number posted on it along the driveway.
- It may be necessary to clear bushes, vines, flowers, and weeds a few times each year to ensure your address is visible.
- If you enter your home through an alley entrance, we recommend you post your address in the alleyway on your property.
- Two or more houses should never share one address. Contact your local city or county 9-1-1 Addressing Coordinator if you need additional addresses.
- For examples of where and how to post your address, see the button below.
Why can’t I find my 9-1-1 address on internet maps (Google Earth, Apple Maps, OnStar, etc.)?
WCTCOG Regional 9-1-1 Program has no control regarding the accuracy of private company internet maps or their database information. The good news is, your local 9-1-1 Communications Center does not use internet maps. They use maps created locally that can pinpoint your exact location. If you would like to see how your address plots on our maps, please see the button below.
It is the responsibility of internet companies, who provide mapping, to maintain and update their own database information. If you have additional questions or concerns regarding an internet map, contact the Customer Service Department of that website.
Why can’t package delivery services (UPS, FedEx, etc.) find my house/business on their map?
WCTCOG Regional 9-1-1 Program sends addressing updates to the Regional Postmaster, that include address additions, edits, and corrections. If you have questions or concerns regarding package delivery to your home or business, contact the Customer Service Department of that company.
Do you have a missing street or road sign?
Although many emergency responders are familiar with where most of the streets and roads are located in their city/county, a street or road sign can improve their response time and ensure responders have arrived at the correct location. If you notice a street or road sign is missing, please report it! For urban areas, contact your nearest City Hall. For rural areas, contact the County Judge’s office.
For other questions or concerns, contact us!