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Apply for Utility Service

Welcome New Residents! Application Process One business day notice required! 1. Complete an APPLICATION and collect your required documents. - Renting? - Signed lease or welcome letter - Purchasing? - Proof of ownership (closing disclosure, warranty deed, etc.) 2. Submit the application, required documents, and photo ID to the Customer Service Department at [email protected] 3. Pay account setup fee and deposit (see below). Fees Account Setup Fee A $30.00 account setup fee is required for all new accounts. This can be reduced to $5.00 if you sign up for both paperless billing and automatic bank draft payments. Provide your email address and a voided check or ACH authorization form when setting up your account to get this fee reduction. Existing customers can also benefit by signing up for paperless billing and automatic bank draft payments. Existing customers who sign up for both will receive a $25.00 account credit. Deposits for Residential Applicants Most residential customers may elect to have a credit check performed. If it passes, the deposit may be waived. Otherwise, contact Customer Service to find out actual deposit amounts. Residential Deposit Amounts The residential utility deposit required varies by location. Residential deposit amounts are 2 times the average monthly bill with minimums listed below: - Electric: $240 - Water: $40 - Sewer: $75 - Irrigation/Reclaimed Water: $60 - Sanitation: $40 Residential Deposit Refunds Residential deposits may be refunded by request if, after two years, there are no more than 2 late payments made. If services are terminated prior to refund of the deposit, the deposit will be credited to the final account balance and any remainder will be issued to the customer in the form of a check. Deposits for Commercial Applicants All commercial customers are required to pay a deposit. A renewable security bond will be accepted in lieu of payment for required deposits over $1000.00 Commercial Deposit Amounts The commercial utility deposit required varies by location. Commercial deposit amounts are 2 times the average monthly bill with minimums listed below: - Electric: $240 (Commercial Demand Deposit: $1,500) - Water: $40 (Commercial Demand Deposit: $40) - Sewer: $75 (Commercial Demand Deposit: $75) - Irrigation/Reclaimed Water: $60 (Commercial Demand Deposit: $60) - Sanitation: 2 x average monthly (Commercial Demand Deposit: 2 x average monthly) Commercial Deposit Refunds Commercial deposits must remain on the account for as long as it is open. When services are terminated, the deposit will be credited to the final account balance and any remainder will be issued to the customer in the form of a check. Contact Information Email: [email protected] Office: 352-735-7105 Fax: 352-735-2892 Physical Location: 510 N. Baker Street, Mount Dora, FL 32757 Office Hours of Operation: 8:00am to 5:00pm - Monday through Friday (excluding Holidays)

Utility Customer Service

Utility Customer Service About the Department The Utility Customer Service Department provides courteous and efficient assistance to the city's utility customers. They are responsible for processing applications and billing for utility services including electric, water, wastewater (sewer), and sanitation. FAQ Topics: - How do I get my utilities turned on or off? - How can I pay my utility bill? - How do I get a Business Tax Receipt? - Where can I apply for car wash, garage, carport, or yard sale permits? - What is the direct telephone number for the City's Customer Service Department for utility billing, utility cut-off/turn-on, complaints, etc.?

Public Services

Public Services / Utility FDOT Lake County Lane Closure: FDOT Lake County Lane Closures The Public Services / Utility Department's goal is to provide safe, clean, quality water to our residents of the Town of Howey-in-the-Hills. Under the supervision of the Public Services Director, our team: - Maintains the landscaping of public access areas within the Town - Respectfully maintains the Cemetery Grounds - Maintains all Public Parks within the Town - Repairs, maintains, and monitors the water treatment plant - Provides clean and safe water to the residents of Howey-in-the-Hills - Maintains the street signs within the Town - The Code Enforcement Department falls under Public Services - Provides the lot grading and landscape inspections for new construction homes to ensure the Town of Howey-in-the-Hills requirements are followed Meet Our Team Morgan Cates - Public Services Director Brianna Pino - Public Services Administrative Assistant III JJ Southall - Public Utilities Supervisor Bradley Braunstein - Utility Worker I Ahman Fulton - Maintenance Worker II Matthew Carter - Maintenance Worker I Ron Kimmel - Maintenance Worker I Matthew McDonald - Code Enforcement Officer FOR AFTER HOURS WATER EMERGENCIES PLEASE CALL 352-805-0135

Water Conservation Video

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Water Conservation Tips

Water Conservation Tips Indoors Never pour water down the drain. There is probably another use for it, such as watering indoor plants or a garden. Make sure your home is leak-free. Read your water meter before and after a two-hour period when no water is being used. If the meter reading changes, your home may have a leak. Fix faucets. Repair dripping faucets by replacing washers. Retrofit older faucets by installing aerators, which will slow the flow of water, ultimately saving water and money on your bill. Fix toilets. Check toilets for leaks by adding food coloring to the tank. A leak is prevalent if color appears in the bowl within 30 minutes. After testing, flush immediately to avoid stains. Replace or adjust toilet handles that stick, letting water run constantly. Installing a displacement device or a low-volume toilet can reduce the amount of water needed for each flush. Install low-flow showerheads. New low-flow showerhead models provide a great amount of pressure but use less water. Also, try taking shorter showers. Run only when full. Operate the dishwasher and washing machines only when fully loaded. Stop buying bottled water. Bottled water costs more and leaves a trail of empty plastic bottles. Invest in a $20 pitcher water filter to save money and the environment. Do not waste water. Don't let water run while brushing your teeth, washing your face, or shaving. Outdoors Don't overwater lawns. Lawns only need watering every five to seven days in the summer and every 10 to 14 days in the winter. Water early. Water lawns during the early morning hours when temperatures and wind speed are the lowest to help reduce evaporation and waste. Don't water pavement. Position sprinklers so that lawns and landscaping are watered and not paved surfaces. Check the irrigation system. Inspect sprinkler systems and timing devices regularly to ensure they are operating properly. Keep grass long. Raise the blade on your lawnmower to at least 3 inches or to its highest level. A higher cut encourages grass roots to grow deeper. Don't over-fertilize. Applying fertilizer increases the need for water. Apply fertilizers that contain slow-release, water-insoluble forms of nitrogen. Use mulch. Mulch helps to retain the moisture in the soil and to control weeds that compete with landscape plants for water. Plant Native. Use native and drought-tolerant vegetation. Once established, these plant materials do not need water frequently and usually will survive a dry period without watering. Blow or sweep. Do not wash down driveways or sidewalks; use a broom or blower instead.

Howey Water Conservation Plan

Town of Howey-in-the-Hills Water Conservation Plan December 2021 Howey Water Conservation Program - December 2021 The page provides access to the town's water conservation plan document and program information.

Major Development Report

Major Development Report – October 2025 The Town of Howey-in-the-Hills continues to experience steady residential and commercial growth. In support of transparency and informed community engagement, the Town publishes a Major Development Report that provides a summary of recent, ongoing, and proposed development activity across the municipality. Originally prepared by TMH Consulting, Inc. and updated by Parks Consulting Services in 2025, the report offers a detailed account of significant development projects, their approval status, and expected impacts on infrastructure, utilities, and community planning. Purpose of the Report The Major Development Report is intended to: - Inform residents, developers, and stakeholders about the status of approved and proposed projects. - Track development trends and highlight potential impacts on infrastructure and public services. - Ensure consistent alignment with the Town's adopted Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code. - Support coordinated review and timely decision-making by Town officials and advisory boards. Contents of the October 2025 Report The October 2025 edition includes: Summary of Recently Completed Projects - Projects such as Venezia Townhomes and Talichet Phase 2 have added a combined 134 residential units to the Town's housing stock. Overview of Major Development Proposals - Projects are grouped into three categories: - Projects with zoning entitlements (e.g., Lake Hills, The Reserve/Hillside Groves, Watermark, Mission Rise) - Speculative projects with incomplete applications (e.g., Cedar Creek) - Inactive or lapsed projects requiring new applications (e.g., Thompson Grove, Westminster Parcel) Project Location Map - A full-color map on page 3 of the report shows the geographic distribution of active and proposed developments throughout the Town and surrounding area. Detailed Project Summaries - Each project includes a summary of its: - Location and zoning history - Number and types of residential units - Infrastructure and utility commitments - Status within the Town's Development Review Process Highlights of Notable Projects: - Lake Hills: Approved for up to 780 housing units, with over 570 age-restricted units currently in subdivision review. The commercial area includes a proposed grocery store, liquor store, and retail buildings. - The Reserve (Hillside Groves): Subdivision infrastructure for Phase 1 is underway, with a total of 638 units planned. - Watermark: Expanded to 290 units following a 2025 amendment to the development agreement. - Mission Rise: Includes 410 single-family lots and a planned multi-use recreational trail. - Whispering Heights: Approved for 156 homes and proposed as a gated community. Utility Planning and Service Agreements - Several developments—such as Drake Point and Cedar Creek—are in unincorporated Lake County but have entered into water and wastewater service agreements with the Town. Inactive Projects Requiring Resubmission - Projects like Thompson Grove and J-5 Equities have not progressed past early planning stages or have been withdrawn.

Government

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Departments

The page displays a Departments section for the Town of Howey-In-The-Hills government website. It includes options to create a website account to manage notification subscriptions and save form progress. The page features navigation elements including a main content skip link, website sign-in functionality, and slideshow controls. The website is powered by CivicPlus.

Mount Dora City Calendar - Upcoming Events

Calendar • Mount Dora, FL • CivicEngage Featured Events City Council Budget Workshop: Governmental Funds; Internal Services July 20, 2026 Event Details City Council Regular Session July 21, 2026 Event Details City Council Regular Session August 4, 2026 Event Details City Council Regular Session August 18, 2026 Event Details City Council Final Budget Workshop: Overall Budget August 24, 2026 Event Details Calendar Do you have a Mount Dora event you'd like posted on the city's website? Choose the 'Submit an Event' button below. Your submission will be reviewed shortly. By submitting an event, you agree to abide by our Promotional Agreement. Visit MountDoraSpecialEvents.com to learn more. Search Calendars by: Start Date End Date Enter Search Terms

Development Services

Development Services Department The Development Services Department plays a central role in guiding growth and development within the Town of Howey-in-the-Hills. The Department is responsible for coordinating planning, engineering, and development review activities to ensure that new development is consistent with the Town's Comprehensive Plan, Land Development Code (LDC), and adopted policies. The Department is managed by John Brock, Deputy Town Manager / Town Clerk, and works closely with professional planning and engineering consultants to provide efficient, transparent, and consistent development review services. Planning and Engineering Services To support the Town's planning functions, Howey-in-the-Hills utilizes professional consulting services: Town Planning Services are provided by Parks Consulting Services. The Town's primary planners are Sean Parks, AICP, QEP (CEO, Senior Scientist and Planner), and April Fisher, AICP, (Senior Planner), and Lisa Busto (Project Manager & Graphic Artist) who assist with comprehensive planning, rezoning requests, development applications, and long-range planning initiatives. Town Engineering Services are provided by Griffey Engineer, Inc. Don Griffey, P.E. serves as the Town Engineer and is responsible for reviewing engineering plans related to infrastructure, utilities, drainage, and transportation to ensure compliance with Town, County, State, and Federal standards. Development Review Process The Town's development review process is designed to promote orderly growth while protecting public health, safety, and welfare. The process is guided by the Land Development Code and generally includes the following steps: Pre-Application Review - Applicants are encouraged to meet with Town staff and consultants early in the process to discuss proposed development, applicable regulations, and submittal requirements. Application Submittal and Staff Review - Development applications are reviewed by Town staff, the Town Planner, and the Town Engineer for compliance with the Comprehensive Plan, Land Development Code, and applicable technical standards. Development Review Committee (DRC) - Many projects are reviewed by the Development Review Committee, which provides coordinated technical feedback and identifies required revisions before formal hearings. Planning and Zoning Board Review - Projects requiring public hearings—such as rezonings, planned unit developments, and comprehensive plan amendments—are reviewed by the Planning and Zoning Board, which makes recommendations to the Town Council. Town Council Action - The Town Council serves as the final decision-making body for legislative and quasi-judicial development actions. Throughout the process, the Town emphasizes transparency, public participation, and consistency with adopted plans and regulations. Contact Information All inquiries related to development applications, zoning, planning, and the development review process should be directed to the Town Clerk, who serves as the Town's primary point of contact and coordinates review with the Town's professional planning and engineering consultants.

government

Development FY25-26 Meeting Schedule

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Land Development Code

Land Development Code The Town of Howey-in-the-Hills Land Development Code (LDC) The Land Development Code (LDC) is the primary regulatory tool that implements the goals and objectives of the Town's Comprehensive Plan. While the Comprehensive Plan provides the policy framework for growth and development, the LDC establishes the specific rules, procedures, and standards that guide land use, zoning, site design, environmental protection, and infrastructure construction within the Town. Purpose and Function of the Land Development Code The LDC protects the public health, safety, and welfare by ensuring that development occurs in a thoughtful, consistent, and sustainable manner. Key purposes include: - Regulating the use and intensity of land and buildings in all zoning districts. - Ensuring compatibility between new development and existing neighborhoods. - Protecting the Town's natural resources, open spaces, and community character. - Providing clear processes for site plan and subdivision review, permitting, and compliance. - Supporting the implementation of the Town's adopted Comprehensive Plan. As stated in Chapter 1 – General Provisions, the LDC is intended to balance the interests of individual property owners with those of the community at large, while safeguarding environmental resources and promoting a high quality of life for all residents. Structure of the LDC The LDC is organized into 10 chapters, each focused on a specific regulatory area, including: - Zoning districts and land uses - Environmental and resource protection - Development review procedures - Accessory and temporary uses - Landscaping and irrigation - Development standards and concurrency - Boards and committees In addition, the LDC incorporates the Official Zoning Map, which designates the boundaries and classifications of all zoning districts within the Town. Updating the Land Development Code To remain responsive to evolving legal requirements, development trends, and community needs, the LDC is periodically reviewed and amended by the Town Council. Updates are informed by staff recommendations, public input, and advisory reviews from the Planning and Zoning Board. The most recent update to the Zoning Map occurred in June 2023, reflecting zoning adjustments to align with adopted land use policies and anticipated development patterns. Access the Land Development Code The full LDC and the Official Zoning Map are available for public review. These documents are essential resources for property owners, developers, design professionals, and residents who wish to understand the Town's development regulations. Available Documents: - Land Development Code - Cover Pages (PDF) - LDC Table of Contents (PDF) - LDC Chapter 1 - General Provisions (PDF) - LDC Chapter 2 - Zoning Districts (PDF) - LDC Chapter 3 - Environmental and Resource Protection (PDF) - LDC Chapter 4 - Development Review Procedures (PDF) - Amended 09-08-2025 - LDC Chapter 5 - Accessory and Temporary Uses and Structures (PDF) - LDC Chapter 6 - Supplemental Standards (PDF) - LDC Chapter 7 - Landscaping, Irrigation and Hardscape (PDF) - LDC Chapter 8 - Development Standards (PDF) - LDC Chapter 9 - Boards and Committees (PDF) - LDC Chapter 10 - Concurrency (PDF) - Howey - Zoning Large Format Map - June 2023 (PDF) - Howey Zoning Comparison Chart (PDF)

Annual Drinking Water Quality Report

The page provides access to the Town of Howey-In-The-Hills Annual Drinking Water Quality Reports. Supporting documents are available for multiple years including: Annual Water Quality Report (2025), Annual Water Quality Report (2024), Annual Water Quality Report (2023), Annual Water Quality Report (2022), Annual Water Quality Report (2021), Annual Water Quality Report (2020), and Annual Water Quality Report (2019).

community

Festivals and Events

Mount Dora is an ideal environment to hold or attend a special event due to inviting weather, abundance of shops and activities, and year-round attractiveness to many visitors and residents. Mount Dora is a dynamic destination with exemplary art, entertainment, and culinary offerings. The City recognizes special events as an important part of Mount Dora's quality of life and the contribution they make to a sustainable tourism industry. Special events also provide economic benefits to local businesses and residents, while providing a love of place through unique civic, cultural, educational, recreational, and entertainment experiences. The City hosts over 30 events throughout the year, enriching the lives of residents, bringing tens of thousands of visitors to the City, and benefiting local nonprofits, small businesses, and vendors. Community favorites include Light Up Mount Dora, where the entire City is decked out in holiday decorations; Snow in the Park, which allows many local children to go sledding in Donnelly Park in the heart of downtown; and Freedom on the Waterfront, which showcases an incredible fireworks show on Lake Dora. Our Back to School Rally and African American History Festival bring the community together for family-friendly activities. Mount Dora also hosts several large festivals, such as the Arts Festival sponsored by Mount Dora Center for the Arts, and the Craft Fair sponsored by Visit Mount Dora. From 5Ks and bicycle festivals to wine walks and pet-friendly activities, we offer something for everyone. Special events play a large role in making Mount Dora "Someplace Special."

Envision Mount Dora

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Comprehensive Plan

The Town of Howey-in-the-Hills Comprehensive Plan The Comprehensive Plan is the foundational document that guides the future growth and development of the Town of Howey-in-the-Hills. Adopted in accordance with the State of Florida's Local Government Comprehensive Planning and Land Development Regulation Act (Chapter 163, Florida Statutes), the Plan reflects the Town's vision and policies for sustainable land use, resource conservation, infrastructure investment, and community development. Purpose of the Comprehensive Plan The Comprehensive Plan serves as a blueprint for maintaining and enhancing the Town's distinctive character while managing growth responsibly. Its goals include: - Promoting orderly development that protects the public health, safety, and welfare. - Preserving the Town's natural resources, open spaces, and small-town charm. - Coordinating the location and timing of public infrastructure and services. - Supporting economic vitality and a high quality of life for residents and businesses. Structure of the Plan The Comprehensive Plan is divided into several chapters, each addressing a key area of concern such as land use, transportation, housing, conservation, recreation, and capital improvements. These chapters, known as "Elements," are guided by data analysis, planning best practices, and extensive public input. Updating the Comprehensive Plan Florida law requires local governments to periodically review and update their Comprehensive Plans to reflect changing conditions, growth patterns, and community priorities. Amendments may be made through a formal public process that includes review by the Planning and Zoning Board, adoption by the Town Council, and, in some cases, review by the Florida Department of Commerce (formerly the Department of Economic Opportunity). Recent updates include: - Chapter 1 – Future Land Use Element was most recently updated on August 12, 2024, to incorporate revised land use designations and planning strategies that support sustainable development. - Chapter 8 – Capital Improvements Element was updated on May 27, 2025, to revise the Town's 5-Year Estimated Schedule of Capital Improvements, ensuring that infrastructure planning aligns with growth and fiscal responsibility. Access the Comprehensive Plan Residents, developers, and other interested parties are encouraged to review the Comprehensive Plan and associated maps to understand current policies and future directions. Each element of the Plan and supporting maps can be accessed below: Comprehensive Plan Title Page, 01 Future Land Use, 02 Transportation, 03 Housing, 04 Public Facilities, 05 Conservation, 06 Recreation and Open Spaces, 07 Intergovernmental Coordination, 08 Capital Improvements, 09 Concurrency Management, 10 Public Participation, 11 Public School Facilities, Chapter 11 - Appendix A - School Attendance Zones, Howey Existing Land Use 34x46 - October 2020, Howey Existing Streets - June 2023, Howey Existing Transportation Map - June 2023, Howey Future Land Use 34x46 - June 2023, Howey Vacant Land Map - April 2020, and 2035 Howey Future Roads.

Official City Trees Designated for Mount Dora

Official City Trees In 2025, the City of Mount Dora proudly designated the Live Oak and the Eastern Redbud as its official City Trees. These species were selected for their beauty, resilience, and important role in supporting the character and environmental health of our community. The Live Oak is a defining feature of Central Florida's landscape, known for its strength, longevity, and expansive canopy that provides shade, reduces heat, and supports local wildlife. The Eastern Redbud, with its vibrant seasonal blooms, adds color and visual interest while contributing to biodiversity and pollinator support. Together, these trees represent Mount Dora's commitment to preserving its natural heritage while enhancing the urban forest for future generations. Learn More Explore additional information about each species through resources provided by the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS): Live Oak (Quercus virginiana) https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST564 https://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/woody/irrigation-research.shtml https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/trees-and-shrubs/trees/live-oaks/ Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis) https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST145 https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/trees-and-shrubs/trees/redbud/ https://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/treesandpowerlines/cercis_canadensis.shtml