Frequently Asked Questions

No, it is illegal to drive a motorized scooter on a roadway or sidewalk.   Click here for more information.

 I'm hosting a party, is there anything I should do?

Yes, there are several guidelines you should know about.  Click here for more information.

Does the Police Department do fingerprinting and when can I have my fingerprints done?

Yes, fingerprinting is done Monday thru Friday from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.  There is a $35.00 fee for this service.  You must bring your fingerprint card with you, have it filled out in black ink, and have a valid picture ID.  Please call the Police Department at (715) 425-0909 to check the availability of personnel to do fingerprinting.

Why did it take so long for the Police to come when I called them?

All requests for Police services are assigned to priority based on the seriousness of the incident and the potential for injury or damage to property.  At times, calls of less urgent nature must be delayed so that we can respond immediately to emergencies.

Why do they ask so many questions when I call the police?

Dispatchers are trained to try to get as much information as possible to best determine the nature of the problem and its seriousness.  On emergency calls, the Dispatcher may have already given the information to the Officer while continuing to ask additional questions.

Can the Police open my car if I have locked my keys inside?

No... The Police Department does not unlock car doors.  There are several local businesses that provide this service for a nominal fee.  They are:

Someone has abandoned a junk car in my parking lot or on my property.  Can the Police tow it away for me?

The Police Department has a  abandoned / junked vehicle ordinance prohibiting such vehicles from being left for an extended period of time on public or private property.  If you feel that a vehicle may be abandoned or junked, please call the Police Department.  Generally, a vehicle parked on private property without consent of the property owner may be ticketed by the Police, but removal is the property owner's responsibility.  A vehicle parked on private property, (in violation of the ordinance), with the property owner's consent may be ticketed and ultimately removed by order of the Municipal Court.

How can I find out if someone is in jail, when someone in jail can be visited and any other information about persons in jail?

The River Falls Police Department does not have a jail.  Please contact the Pierce County Jail directly at 715-273-5051 or the St. Croix County Jail at 715-386-4752 to inquire about someone.

How do I get a copy of a Police report?

The River Falls Police Department operates under Wisconsin's Open Records Law.  Copies are  .25 cents per page for 8 1/2 x 11 and .35 cents per page for 11 x 17.  The review process usually takes 5 to 10 working days to complete.  If you cannot come into the police department, reports can be mailed if you send a self addressed stamped envelope along with the case number and the processing fee.

Where do I go to pay my Parking Ticket or Traffic/City Ordinance Violation citation?

Parking tickets can be paid by mail or in person at the Police Department, or at one of the red drop boxes located at the following locations:

Parking Tickets may also now be paid online.  Click here to pay your parking ticket online.

Traffic/City Ordinance Violation Citations are processed through the River Falls Municipal Court, located at 115 E. Elm Street.  If you have any questions about paying for a Traffic/City Ordinance Violation citation or you would like to set a hearing date, please contact the Municipal Court directly at 715-425-0900, extension 138.

Can I make a Police report at any time of day and do I need to make an appointment?

The Police Department will respond 24 hours a day, seven days a week to requests for police assistance.  Normal business hours are 7 AM to 5 PM, Monday - Friday.  The Police Department entrance is open 24 hours a day with a direct phone line to the dispatcher.

Can I make a Police report over the telephone or does a police officer have to come to my house?

Generally, all reports must be made in person.  Contact the Police Department at 715-425-0909.   An Officer will be dispatched to your home or business to meet with you.  If you find it more convenient you may come to the Police Department at 111 N. Second Street to meet with an Officer.

What is a restraining order and how do I get one?

A restraining order is a court order that prohibits one person from having contact with another.  Restraining orders are generally used when one person wants protection from another.  Click here for more information on restraining orders and how to get one.

We have a problem with speeders in our neighborhood.  What can we do about it?

Call the Police Department at 715-425-0909 to notify us.   We may place the radar trailer in your neighborhood.

I have a question regarding the rights and responsibilities of landord's and tenants.  Where can I get information on this topic?

The River Falls Police Department generally does not get involved in investigating or giving advice relating to this topic as they are usually civil issues and not criminal.  One of the best resources for information on this topic is a booklet entitled "Landlord's and Tenants, The Wisconsin Way," published by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.  The booklet can be accessed by contacting one of the following regional offices of the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection:

The Police Department does have a copy of this booklet available for public review.

Should I report suspicious activity in my neighborhood?

YES.....The importance of citizens calling to report crimes or suspicious activity cannot be over emphasized.  Crime prevention and the solution to crimes or violations already committed depend greatly on information provided by citizens.  The dispatcher who takes your call will ask questions about the activity to determine its nature and ask for a description of the people involved.  Information such as a vehicle's license plate number, color, make or a persons clothing, hair, build, etc... are important.  You may be asked if an officer may contact you in person for further information / clarification.  You can also leave us a tip on our web site.