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Airport

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1. Is the airport in service condition?

Usually, but please contact the Town Office at 306-948-3317 to be sure.

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Animals and Pests

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1. How much are licenses for cats and dogs?

Please see Schedule "A" - Fees in Bylaw No 23-851.

Bylaw 23-851

2. Where do I buy an animal license?

Animal licenses can be bought at the Town Office (202 3rd Ave West) Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., excluding holidays.

3. When do I need to renew or purchase an animal license?

All animal licenses expire December 31st of the year issued. Licenses must be renewed prior to the expiration of the current year, and will be available at the Town Office in late fall.

All cats and dogs that are four months of age or older, require an animal license (see Section 13 Exemptions in Bylaw No. 23-851).

Bylaw No. 23-851

4. When do animal licenses expire?

Animal licenses expire December 31st of the year issued.

5. What do I do when I find a stray animal?

Stray animals can be taken to the Biggar Vet Clinic. The Town of Biggar will not pick up any stray animals.

6. Does the Town of Biggar have an off-leash dog area?

Biggar is a pet-friendly community.  Our off-leash dog area, Central Bark, is located at the north end of Ontario Street.  In all other areas of the Town of Biggar, dogs must be leashed at all times. Pet owners are reminded to please bring their own pet bags whenever they are out and about with their furry friends, so they are able to clean up after them.

7. I have a skunk in my yard, who do I call?

Please call a professional pest control service to assist you.

8. What dogs are prohibited in the Town of Biggar?

Please see Schedule "D" - Prohibited Animals in Bylaw No. 23-851.

Bylaw No. 23-851

9. Does the Town of Biggar rent traps out?

The Town of Biggar does not rent traps out.

Trapping dogs or cats at large is not permitted in the Town and is considered an offence. Please contact a professional animal control service to assist you.

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Biggar Aquatic Centre

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1. What are the rates at the Biggar Aquatic Centre?

The Rates are:

Daily Admission
Preschool (0 – 5) Free
Child (6 – 14) $5.00
Adult (15+) $6.00
Family $20.00

Season Passes
Preschool (0-5) Free
Child (6-17) $90.00
Adult (18+) $110.00
Family (up to 2 adults, 4 kids) $250.00
Add extra child to family $40.00
Aquasize $90.00

Punch Cards (12 Swims)
Preschool (0-5) Free
Child (6-17) $50.00
Adult (18+) $60.00

Lessons
Parent & Tot/Preschool (30 Min) $ 40.00
Swimmer 1-2 (30 Min) $50.00
Swimmer 3-6 (30 min) $65.00
Rookie, Ranger, Star Patrol (60 Min) $75.00
Bronze’s $150.00
Private/Adult Lessons $15 per 15 minutes

Rentals
1 Hour (Includes two guards) $100.00
Additional Guards $25.00

2. How do I book swim times at the Biggar Aquatic Centre?

Please contact the Recreation Director at the Town Office at 306-948-3317 or the Biggar Aquatic Centre at 306-948-2444.

3. How do I book the tennis courts or beach volleyball court?

The tennis courts and beach volleyball court are first come, first serve and they do not cost anything to use.

4. When will swimming lesson registration be?

To be announced

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Biggar Community Hall

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1. Which facilities have room rental opportunities for meetings, parties, events, etc.?

Biggar Community Hall: 306-948-3317 

Biggar Museum and Gallery: 306-948-3451

Biggar New Horizons: 306-948-5115

Westwinds Motor Hotel (Centennial Room): 306-948-3301

2. Where can I book a wedding?

There are different options for wedding venues in Biggar. There are a number of churches you can contact to inquire, or contact the Town Office for the Biggar Community Hall, which accommodates seating for approximately 400 people.  For rates please see Town Policies - Biggar Community Hall Rental Rates. For other inquiries please contact the Town office at 306-948-3317.

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Biggar Day Camp

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1. When is Day Camp?

Day Camp will run for the months of July and August in the afternoons from 1 - 4pm.

2. Where is the Day Camp?

Day Camp is based out of Jubilee Stadium.

Some activities do happen at other locations, including the Biggar Aquatic Centre, local parks, and the Museum.

3. What types of activities will my child(ren) be participating in?

The Day Camp runs a variety of activities including: crafts, stories, games, swimming, trips to the parks, field trips, science experiments, guest speakers and much more!

4. How much is Day Camp?

The Day Camp fees are: $120 / child $175 / Family (maximum of 3 children) $10 / drop-in Fees can be paid via Cash, Cheque, or Debit/Credit. Note: Debit/Credit transactions are only available at the Town Office.

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Biggar Jubilee Stadium

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1. How do I book ice time at Biggar Jubilee Stadium?

Please contact the Recreation Director at the Town Office at 306-948-3317.

2. Is Jubilee Stadium available for rentals in the summer?

Yes, Jubilee Stadium is available for summer rentals.

Contact the Recreation Director at the Town Office 306-948-3317 or recreation@townofbiggar.com

3. Is there a meeting room at Jubilee Stadium?

Meetings can be held in the foyer of Jubilee Stadium or upstairs in the Mark Edwards Memorial Hall.

Contact the Recreation Director at the Town Office 306-948-3317 or recreation@townofbiggar.com

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Biggar Revitalization

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1. Why is the Town embarking on this project?

Spurred by a philanthropic couple who are providing up to $2.5M in matching dollars, the Town's revitalization plans have been driven by the community. considerable consultation and planning occurred in conjunction with the residents of Biggar and area to create the master concept for the Town's next chapter.

The bold plans will energize and revitalize the town, attract new residents and visitors, and will make Biggar the envy of like-sized communities. An animated and vibrant downtown core encourages commerce, is walkable, accessible to seniors, sensitive to the environment, and celebrates heritage.  

Comments heard during the open-house presentations regarding the plans include:

• Love this! Looks welcoming and honors our history and famous landmarks
• The concept is excellent
• I love everything about it. I can't wait for this project to start
• I see huge benefits to this revitalization
  
  

2. When did the planning for this project begin?

Ina Lou and Wayne Brownlee approached Biggar in 2019 with a generous offer to give back to the community they were raised in. A committee of community members was assembled in 2020 to inform development of a concept plan to revitalize Biggar based on residents' wishes.

Concepts developed by landscape architecture firm Crosby Hanna & Associates were shared at community open houses in January 2021 outlining a major revitalization of Main Street and the former CN grounds. Final plans incorporating community feedback were approved by Council in April 2021. 

3. How will the Town pay for the revitalization and ongoing costs?

A generous matching donation of $2.5M has been offered by the Ian Lou and Wayne Brownlee Family Foundation. This capital fundraising campaign aims to match the entire $2.5M in order to maximize the opportunity presented.

The Town has initiated planning to consider future maintenance and/or operational costs. The project will be managed in such a way that these costs are minimized to the best ability through sustainable features and practices (e.g. LED lighting, solar power, water capture).

4. Can I give a gift over multiple years?

Absolutely! Donations can be pledged over a period of up to 5 years. Your gift can be made on a weekly, monthly or annual basis. 

5. Is interim financing available to cover multi-year gifts?

The Town has planned for bridge financing to cover any interim financing throughout the pledge period offered to donors. 

6. What is the Town contributing to this project?

The Town of Biggar has been, and will continue to be, a significant partner in this project. As the total cost of the project is $7.5M, the Town if working towards partnering with all levels of government to attain funds beyond the community fundraising goal. 

7. Why doesn't the Town just add this as levy on taxes?

The Town's hope is to move forward with this project without raising taxes to cover capital costs of the revitalization. 

In order to maximize the generous matching funds, the Town of Biggar aims to meet the fundraising goal of $2.5M from other generous donors. Corporate donations, sponsorships, and foundation grants will be pursued in addition to personal donations. 

8. Who is involved in this project?

Biggar's Mayor and Council are responsible for final decisions on this project. The project will be managed and executed by Town administration. 

Digital town halls, open houses presenting the master concept, stakeholder ground, and a volunteer fundraising campaign have all been undertaken to ensure community engagement. The residents of Biggar and the surrounding areas have participated in these activities in high numbers allowing Town Council to move forwards confidently knowing that the community is on board with the plans.

A volunteer fundraising team has been complied that serves to represent the many stakeholder groups within the community including business, agriculture and more.

9. What is the timeline for the project?

The start of the renovations will depend on when the necessary funds are raised. Some work may be completed in phases. 

10. How will donations be spent?

All funds raised in this campaign will go toward the capital project. A breakdown of the project budget can be provided for further detail. 

11. What are the campaign expenses? How are they paid for?

The campaign is volunteer driven and managed. We anticipate all campaign expenses to be less than $10,000.00. The Biggar Membership Program has a separate fulfillment budget with an ROI of 1,000%. 

12. How was the master concept/design developed

With the professional expertise of Crosby Hanna.

13. Where can i get more information on this project?

More information, including how to get involved as a donor and/or volunteer, can be found on the Town of Biggar's Facebook page, the campaign leadership team and D'Shae Bussiere (Community Development Officer)

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Booking Our Facilities

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1. Which facilities have room rental opportunities for meetings/parties/etc.?

Biggar Community Hall meeting room (holds approximately 50 people): 306-948-3317
Westwinds Motor Hotel (Centennial Room) Dayna McComb: 306-948-3301
Biggar New Horizons: 306-948-5115

2. How do I book swim times at the Biggar Aquatic Centre?

Please contact the Recreation Director at the Town Office at 306-948-3317 or the Biggar Aquatic Centre at 306-948-2444.

3. How do I book ice time at Biggar Jubilee Stadium?

Please contact the Recreation Director at the Town Office at 306-948-3317. Please view the following link. Rink Schedule

4. How do I book the ball fields and booth at the rec complex?

To book anything at the Recreation Complex you must contact the Recreation Director at the Town Office at 306-948-3317.

5. How do I book the tennis courts or beach volleyball court?

The Tennis courts and beach volleyball court are first come, first serve and they do not cost anything to use.

6. Where can I book a wedding?

You could book your wedding at one of the local churches by contacting them or the Town owns the Biggar Community Hall that accomodates approximately seating for 400 people. For rates please see Town Policies - Biggar Community Hall Rental Rates. For other inquiries please contact the Town office at 306-948-3317.

7. How do I get the bathrooms open at Third Avenue Park?

Contact the Recreation Director at the Town Office between 8a.m. - 4p.m. Monday to Friday to get the bathrooms unlocked. 306-948-3317

8. Where can I rent tables and chairs?

The Town of Biggar has tables and chairs available for rent. Contact the Recreation Director at the Town Office 306-948-3317 for rates and bookings.

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Bylaw Enforcement

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1. What does it mean when the Town deems a property as an “Untidy Premise”?

It means that a property is required to be cleaned-up, such as grass being cut, garbage and/or junked vehicles to be removed off the property. For more information contact the Town Office at 306-948-3317.

2. How long can a vehicle be parked on Town streets?

The Town of Biggar Traffic Bylaw allows 48 hours for a vehicle to be parked in the same location, unless otherwise posted.

3. Does my vehicle have to have current registration and insurance to be parked on Town property?

Yes. Failure to have current registration and insurance may result in having your vehicle towed.

4. Are property owners responsible for sidewalk snow and ice removal?

Every occupant, and in a case where there is not an occupant, the owner of every house, shop, building, lot or parcel of land fronting or abutting on any street or street where there are sidewalks shall, within twenty-four (24) hours of the falling of snow or ice, cause the same to be removed from said sidewalk in front of or adjacent to such house, shop, building, lot or parcel of land.

5. How long are recreational vehicles/trailers allowed to be left on Town streets?

Please see Bylaw 17-790.

6. Can my neighbour park on the street in front of my house?

Yes. It is Town property, meaning that it is public property.

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Cemetery

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1. How do I locate a loved one?

You can contact the Town Office at 306-948-3317.

2. What are the fees for an interment in Biggar?

Fees and regulations are set in accordance with our Cemetery Bylaw No. 18-805. Please click on the link for more information.

Cemetery Fees

3. Where can I order flowers from?

Beautiful U / New U Fitness 306-948-9104

Biggar Flower and Gift Shop 306-948-2616 

Designs By Ann 306-948-3666

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Census

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1. What is Biggar's population?

The 2016 Federal census results show Biggar's population to be 2,226 people.

The 2011 Federal census results show Biggar's population to be 2,161 people.

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Emergency Services

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1. What are the hours of operation I can reach the Public Works shop? What happens if I have an after hours emergency?

Public Works (Maintenance) Shop is open Monday to Friday 7:30 am to 4:30 pm. We have an on-call employee 24/7 to help with any unexpected issues that may arise (ie: water/sewer concerns). Call 306-948-7922.

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Emergency Services

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1. Who do I call for Fire, Ambulance and other emergency services?

Please call 911!

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Fat Cat Splash Park

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1. When is the Fat Cat Splash Park open?

Spring until Fall (weather permitting) 10 am to 8 pm. 

2. Are there washrooms at the Splash Park?

There are washrooms in Buckingham Park which is located adjacent to the Fat Cat Splash Park.

3. Are there change rooms at the Splash Park?

No, change room facilities are not available at the Splash Park.

4. Are pets allowed in the Fat Cat Splash Park?

No, pets are not allowed in the Splash Park.

5. Where is the Fat Cat Splash Park located?

The Fat Cat Splash Park is located on the 300 block of 3rd Avenue East next to Buckingham Park.

6. How do I book the Splash Park?

The Splash Park cannot be reserved.

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Garbage pick up

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1. When is my garbage pick-up day?

Garbage day pick-up is on Monday and Tuesday mornings. If there has been a long weekend, garbage pick-up days may be delayed up to one day. For Commercial properties, garbage pick up is on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Garbage Pick-up Day Map

2. When does garbage pick up change from front yard pick-up to back alley pick-up?

This changes from year to year depending on weather. Notice will be given using some or all of the following: in the local newspaper, a mail-out, on the Town's website, on the digital sign, and in our newsletter.

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General

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1. What is required for backyard fire pits?

In the Town of Biggar backyard fire pits/outdoor fire places are able to be used given the following conditions are met and adhered to:

Pit Construction / Placement

1. Must be 3 meters (10 feet) from buildings, property lines, or combustible materials and located in an area free of dry grass, brush or combustible soil, such as peat moss.

2. Pit shall not exceed 1 meter (3 feet) in width, height or diameter when measured between widest points.

3. The fire pit or outdoor fire place shall have enclosed sides made from bricks, concrete blocks, and heavy gauge metal or non-combustible material acceptable to the Fire Chief.

4. A spark arrester mesh screen with openings no larger than 1.25 cm (1/2 inch) and constructed of expanded metal must be used to cover the fire pit opening in a manner sufficient to contain and reduce the hazards or airborne sparks.

Conditions for Burning

1. At least one (1) responsible adult shall be in attendance at all times to monitor and control the fire and have available means to extinguish the fire should an emergency situation develop.

2. The fire pit or outdoor fire place shall be used in a manner which does not cause any inconvenience or nuisance to neighbors.

3. Only the following material shall be permitted for burning in a fire pit or outdoor fire place:
- Clean wood products with no preservatives
- Prefabricated burning logs
- Manufactured combustible gases or solid fuel designated for home barbecue use.

Please use caution when using a outdoor fire pit, be aware of all conditions surrounding the area and you will enjoy a summer of fun.

2. When will my street get snow removal?

Snow removal for residential streets within the Town of Biggar will begin after the major areas are cleared. Those include: Main Street, Hospital and Schools. Public works will alternate west and east side each time they begin moving snow in the residential areas. The public is asked to please remove vehicles off the street during the time the plow will be removing snow in your area.

3. Who are the plumbers in the Town of Biggar?

Please click on the following link. Plumbing Services

4. Who are the contractors in the Town of Biggar?

Please click on the following link. Contractors

5. Where do I report a problem with my road or sidewalk?

To report a problem with your road or sidewalk, please contact the Town Office at 306-948-3317.

6. Who do I call if I have a problem with water, wastewater (sewer), or stormwater service (not including utility account setup or billing information)?

Please contact the Town Office at 306-948-3317.

7. When is the craft fair?

The craft fair is normally held in November. Check the Town's calendar for more information.

8. When is the farmer's market?

The Biggar Farmer's Market ususally runs from June-September on Tuesdays from 3-5 pm. Please contact Maryann Walter at 306-948-2925 ext. 229.

9. Who do I contact to book campsites?

There are two places for campsites:

1) Plaza Mobile Home Park & RV Park. Call 306-948-2554 or 306-948-7161.
Each site includes electricity, water & sewer. There is a also a shower building.

2) Biggar Regional Park. Contact Jim Besse at 306-948-2127 for information.

10. What does the blue breastfeeding logo mean?

The purpose of an international symbol for breastfeeding is to increase public awareness of breastfeeding, to provide an alternative to the use of a baby bottle image, to designate baby friendly areas in public, and to mark breastfeeding friendly facilities.

Of course, breastfeeding does not require a special place and is appropriate—as the Canadian government’s slogan says—”anytime, anywhere.” The purpose of the symbol is not to segregate breastfeeding, but to help integrate it into society by better accommodating it in public.

The International Breastfeeding Symbol is now used all over the world to demonstrate supportive, safe places for women to breastfeed their children. Businesses, public, and governmental spaces use this symbol to say “Breastfeeding welcome here.”

In Biggar, the logo is being displayed at Biggar Pharmasave, Leslie's Drug Store, and the Parent Mentoring Office (102-6th Avenye East).

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Health Services

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1. I'm a new resident to Biggar, Saskatchewan. How do I apply for a Saskatchewan Health Services Card?

You may pick up an application form at the Town Office 202-3rd Avenue West, or see the Quick Links on this page to obtain the application form online.
Health Card Application

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Human Resources

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1. How do I apply for a posted position?

Applications may be dropped off in person, emailed, mailed or faxed to Marty Baroni, Chief Administrative Officer or Amanda Carruthers, Assistant Administrator. Box 489 Biggar, SK S0K 0M0 Email: cao@townofbiggar.com or assistant@townofbiggar.com Fax To: 306-948-5134

2. Are all candidates contacted after submitting a resume?

Unfortunately, we are unable to contact all candidates that forward resumes for consideration. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

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Landfill

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1. When is the landfill open?

The landfill is open on Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm in the Winter Season (October 1st to April 15th) and Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm in the Summer Season (April 16th to September 30th).

2. Are there tipping fees at the landfill?

Yes, there are tipping fees at our landfill. Please see the attached document for our current fee schedule.

Landfill Tipping Fees

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Library

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1. How much is a library card?

There is no charge for a library card when you are from Saskatchewan.

2. How do I get a library card?

There is no charge to get a library card if you are a resident of Saskatchewan. You will need proof of identity and residency when you apply. Acceptable forms of identification are a driver's license, birth certificate or passport and you will also need to provide a bill/statement/notice with your mailing address on it.

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Licensing & Permits

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1. When does my business licence expire?

Business licences expire December 31 of the calendar year and are renewable the first business day of the new year.

2. Where can I purchase a business licence?

Business licences can be purchased from the Town Office
202 - 3rd Avenue West between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday to Friday. Phone number 306-948-3317. If a new contractor comes to do work after September 1 of that calendar year they will only be charged half the amount.

3. Where can I get the forms for a death certificate?

You can come to the Town Office located at 202 - 3rd Avenue West Monday to Friday between 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. or you can click on the link to get a form online. Death Certificate Form

4. How do I get forms for a birth certificate?

You can come to the Town Office located at 202 - 3rd Avenue West Monday to Friday between 8:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. or you can click on the quick link to get a form online. Birth Certificate Application

5. Where do I get a marriage license from?

You can get a marriage license from de Moissac Jewellers located at 217 Main Street. Phone number is 306-948-2452. Marriage Licence Form

6. Where/how do I get a permit for electrical or natural gas work? How much does it cost?

Please contact SaskPower.

7. Where/how do I get a permit for plumbing work? How much does it cost?

Contact the Town Office at 306-948-3317 or Heartland Health Region and speak to Jim Webster at 306-948-3323 ext. 269.

The following charges for permits:
- 2 or less fixtures = $20
- 3 to 10 fixtures = $40
- over 10 fixtures = $40 + $5 for every additional fixture
- connection to municipal sewage system = $20
- inspection of a private sewage system = $30

8. How do I get a Lottery License?

Please apply to Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) online at: https://www.slga.com/permits-and-licences/charitable-gaming/raffles.

For raffles with prizes not exceeding $2,500.00, there is a $0.00 application fee.

Great news! SLGA provides a Charitable Gaming Grant of 25% of the net proceeds once a follow-up financial report is submitted.

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Mayor and Councillors

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1. How do I address the mayor and councillors?

In formal correspondence to Town Council or during an introduction of the mayor to a group or event, you would address the mayor as "His Worship the Mayor." After using the formal address once, it is then appropriate to use more general terms. In a personal introduction, you would address the mayor as "Mr. Mayor" or "Your Worship," and councillors as "Councillor."

2. Will the mayor speak at my event?

Please contact the Town Office at 306-948-3317 

3. I have a complaint. Who do I talk to about my concerns?

Council is responsible for developing and evaluating the policies and programs while setting the direction for the Town of Biggar. The Chief Administrative Officer is responsible to the Council of the Town of Biggar for the overall administration of municipal operations of the town in accordance with objectives, policies and plans approved by the Council. Call the Town Office at 306-948-3317 or visit the Town Office at 202 - 3rd Avenue West Monday to Friday between 8:00 a.m. -4:00 p.m.

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Organics

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1. What day is collection day?

Every Wednesday - from the first week of April to the last week of October

2. How far from objects should my cart be?

Your cart should be 3 feet from the curb and any other objects (ex. parked cars or other bins)

3. Can I bag my items?

Please DO NOT bag your items - If a bag is required use a paper bag. 

4. Are branches allowed?

No, please do not put your branches/twigs in the Organics bin. The Town employees will go around twice a year to collect small twigs and branches from the back alleys.

5. Do I need to use my cart?

No, you don't have to use it if you choose not to. Know that you will then be in charge of all organic wastes - the Town will not pick anything up from the back alleys.

6. What is and isn't allowed in my bin?

Please see the list of items that ARE allowed and NOT allowed on the organics page.

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Planning and Development

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1. How do I purchase a lot in Biggar?

Please contact the Assistant Administrator, Amanda Carruthers, at the Town Office at 306-948-3317.  A list of available lots in Town are available

here.

2. When do I need a Development Permit?

Generally, most development in the Town of Biggar requires a development permit. Please contact the Town Office at 306-948-3317 for more information.

3. Where can I get a civic address?

Please contact the Town Office at 306-948-3317.

4. Where can I get a copy of my building plans?

You can contact the Town Office at 306-948-3317.

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Property Assessment

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1. What is an assessment?

An assessment is the value placed on your property for taxation purposes. It reflects the market value of your property based on "Valuation Day" which is currently January 1, 2011. The Town of Biggar uses the assessment to calculate your share of property taxes. These values are generated by the Saskatchewan Assessment Management Agency.

2. How often is my property assessed?

Property assessments are updated every four years. If you have taken out a building permit or demolition permit, then your property would be assessed for the following year.

3. Why is my assessment so important?

Your assessment plays a vital role in determining the amount of property tax you pay. It is very important to ensure that your assessment correctly reflects the physical characteristics of your property. The assessors use property detail and sales data information to determine your assessment. Your assessment is used to calculate the amount of property tax you will pay, therefore, if the assessment information is incorrect, your property tax amount will be affected

4. What is Market Value Assessment?

Market Value Assessment is one of the methods used under the Saskatchewan Assessment Management Agency to prepare assessments. It is the amount that a property might be expected to sell for if it is sold on the open market by a willing seller to a willing buyer. Market value assessment is not necessarily the actual purchase price of the property, but is meant to reflect the market value of the property as of January 1, 2015.
Factors that are considered by the assessors include: property location, lot size, building size, age and condition of the buildings on the property, selling prices of similar type properties in similar areas or neighborhoods. Professional assessors consider the physical characteristics of a property, study sales of similar types of property, and develop assessments based on these factors.

5. What do I do if I think my assessment is incorrect?

Compare your assessment to similar properties in your neighborhood, then consider whether you have any special features that would affect the value of your property - an oversize garage, a swimming pool, the location of your property, the size of your house. Keep in mind that the Valuation Day is January 1, 2015 - therefore, your assessment should reflect market value as of that date - not the current market value. If you have questions regarding your assessment, it is advisable to contact the Town Office at 306-948-3317.

6. How do I appeal my assessment?

If, after discussing your assessment with the assessor at the Town Office, you still feel there is an error in your assessment you may file an assessment appeal. Please contact the Town Office at 306-948-3317 and the assessor will guide you through the appeal process.

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Property Taxes

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1. When do I receive my tax notice?

Tax notices are normally mailed in early May, and taxes are due June 30. The tax notice covers the period January 1 to December 31 of the current year.

If you have a mortgage on your property, and your mortgage company is responsible to pay property taxes on your behalf, the notification of taxes due is sent to the mortgage company.

2. What is a mill rate?

The term "mill rate" can be described as the amount of tax that is paid per $1,000.00 of assessed property value. The Town of Biggar and local schools administration use the mill rate to calculate the amount of property tax that is required from each property to raise the revenue necessary to operate the Town and schools for the current year.

The mill rate has two components - the municipal portion and the education portion. The municipal mill rate is established by Town Council once the Town of Biggar budget has been approved for the year. The Province of Saskatchewan establish uniform mill rates for education and then work together to establish a uniform education mill rate for the Town of Biggar. Additional mill rates for special requisitions are approved on a yearly basis.

The mill rate indicates the amount of tax you will pay for every $1,000.00 of assessment placed on your property.

For example - if the mill rate (municipal and school) is 12.5 mills-for every $1,000.00 of assessment you will pay $12.50 of taxes. Therefore, if you have property assessed at $100,000 your tax bill would be $1,250.00.

Assessment X Mill rate / 1000 = Property tax amount

3. Does everyone pay school tax?

Yes, every residential and non-residential property owner is required to pay education taxes - including people without children in school and senior citizens. This money is collected by the Town of Biggar and forwarded directly to the Sun West School Division No.207 or the St. Pauls Roman Catholic Seperate School Division No.20 to operate our local schools.

4. How do I know which school division my taxes go to?

For individuals, all school tax is directed to the Sun West School Division No.207 (Public) unless the individual completes a "School Support Declaration" and submits it to the Town of Biggar. Please visit the Town Office to complete the School Support Declaration form.

A school support declaration can be provided to the Town of Biggar at any time, but it will not become effective until the following year the declaration was signed.

5. Should I pay my taxes if I have filed an assessment appeal?

Yes, you must pay your taxes by the deadline to avoid penalty. If your assessment appeal is successful and your assessment is reduced, thereby reducing your yearly tax amount, a credit will be applied to your tax account. This credit can then remain on your account to be applied to the following year's taxes OR you may request a refund.

6. What if I don't get my tax notice?

You should contact the Town Office if you have not received your tax notice by mid May.

7. What if I don't pay my taxes?

Taxes are due yearly by June 30. Any tax amounts that remain outstanding as of January 1 are assessed an additional penalty of 15%. In January the Town of Biggar will undertake tax enforcement procedures. This will result in a lien being registered on the property, and within one year of the lien being registered, further enforcement procedures will be undertaken. Ultimately, the Town will sell the property at public auction, using the proceeds to clear the outstanding tax amounts.

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Recreation Complex

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1. How do I book the ball fields and booth at the rec complex?

To book anything at the Recreation Complex you must contact the Recreation Director at the Town Office at 306-948-3317.

2. How do I book the tennis courts or beach volleyball court?

The Tennis courts and beach volleyball court are first come, first serve and they do not cost anything to use.

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Town Council

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1. How do I know when Town Council meetings are held?

Town Council regular meeting are held every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month. Committee meetings are held the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of every month. For specific dates, please visit the Town's calendar on the website.

2. How do I get on the agenda for Town Council?

You must submit a letter requesting why and what you are wanting by Friday at noon the week before the Council meeting. Letters can be dropped off at the Town Office at 202 3rd
Avenue West.

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Utility Billing

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1. How often are water bill readings done?

Readings are done every 2 months: February, April, June, August, October and December.

2. When will I receive a water bill and when is the bill due?

The water bills are processed and mailed on that last day of the specific billing period. For example: February 28th or June 30th. The bills are due and payable 38 days after the billing date. Water and Sewer cut off notices are then sent and services will be disconnected approximately 10 days from that notice if the account has not been paid. Reconnection fee to get your services turned back on is $75.00.

3. How do I go about applying for a water account?

• If you do not have an existing active water account (i.e., you are not transferring your account), connection fees are as follows: $125 deposit which is transferable or refundable if you move or disconnect your water MUST be paid prior to any services being connected. • You must come into the Town Office and pay by cheque, cash, credit or debit. We will need an address and a box number so we can send you the bills. Hours: Mondays to Fridays, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm (excluding holidays) at 202-3rd Avenue West Biggar, SK S0K 0M0

4. What is a minimum utility bill?

Minimum bill for residential services is $120.00 for any usage between 0 - 4,000 gallons. If you use more then 4,000 gallons you will be billed an overage charge of $5.00/1,000 gallons of water.

5. How can I pay my utility bill?

There are a few payment options available: 

1. Pay in person at the Town Office – our hours are 8am to 4pm Monday to Friday (excluding holidays) and the cashier is open through the lunch hour.
2. Pay through your financial institution (online banking). You will then also need your water account number.
3. Call the Town Office at 306-948-3317 and pay using your credit card.

6. Is there a fee to disconnect or reconnect my water?

If you voluntarily choose to disconnect and/or reconnect your water, there is a $25 fee for each action. Please provide notice at least 1 business day before this service is needed.

Note: If your water was shut off by the Town due to an unpaid bill, the reconnection fee is $75 plus the outstanding utility bill amount.

7. I just bought a house in Biggar, do I need to contact the Town Office?

Yes, we require your billing information and the date that you moved into this house. You are also required to pay a $125 deposit.

8. How soon before I move into my house do I have to apply for water services?

Please provide notice a few days in advance of moving in to your residence.

9. My water bill seems high, why is that?

You may have a leaking toilet. The best way to check for a leak is to put a food coloring in the tank of the toilet and let it sit overnight without flushing. If the color is in the bowl in the morning, then you have a leak. You can also check the read on the meter before going to bed and then again in the morning. If it has changed then you will have a leak. Another reason could be if it was an estimate bill before your actual reading bill, you might be playing catch up.

10. My toilet can’t be leaking because I don’t hear it or see any water on the floor, so I don’t have a leak.

You don’t necessarily hear or see a leak. Check your toilets on a regular basis using the food color test.

11. I already have a water account but I am moving to a new house. Do I need to contact your department?

Yes, you need to notify us of the date you are moving out of your current house and to notify us of your new address and the date you are moving there.

12. I’m moving out of Biggar and don’t require water anymore, do I need to contact you?

Yes, we need to know the date you are out of your address, so that we can take a read on that day. We also require a forwarding address so that we can send you a final bill or if you have a credit, then we will send you a cheque.

13. When I set up my account, I paid a deposit, when do I get that back?

You get your deposit back when your account is closed. It is applied to your final bill.

14. I’m purchasing a revenue property and already have a water account at my residence, why do I have to pay the deposit?

A deposit is required on all residential & commercial properties.

15. Why can’t you get a read from my meter? Why do I have to call it in to you?

The meter reader was not able to get a read from the remote on the outside of your house. The remote is connected by a wire to the meter on the inside of your house. This could be due to several reasons. Your gate to your yard could be locked or obstructed, there may be a dog in the yard, or the connection from the remote to your meter has been severed.

16. I need to read my meter. Where is it?

Your meter should be in your utility room close to your hot water tank or washing machine. We require the digits/decimals on the top of the meter.

17. Who do I call with my water meter read?

You can call the Town Office at 306-948-3317 at anytime and leave a voice message with your address, account number, date of read and the reading on the water meter.

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Water and Sewer

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1. Why do I have to boil my water after a water distribution system repair?

You must boil your water because the water main was depressurized for the repair which increases the risk of outside contaminants from the soil or surrounding area entering the main. The main will be flushed and disinfected.

During precautionary boil water advisories or boil water orders, you should boil all water used for drinking, preparing food, beverages, ice cubes, washing fruits and vegetables, or brushing teeth. Infant formulas should be prepared using boiled tap water, at all times.

It is not necessary to boil tap water used for other household purposes, such as showering, laundry, or bathing. Adults, teens, and older children can wash, bathe, or shower; however, they should avoid swallowing the water. Toddlers and infants should be sponge-bathed.
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2. Where can I get water?

The Town has a potable water fill station near the water tower located at 301 - 8th Avenue West.  

The fee for water fill is:

1 token or $1 for 225 gallons

5 tokens or $5 for 1,000 gallons

Tokens may be purchased at the Town Office, or you may use loonies.

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Welcome Wagon

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1. Is there a Welcome Wagon in Biggar?

Yes, please contact Sheila Itterman at 306-948-3837.