The basics: Your guide to getting around town

It doesn't matter whether you just moved into Wauwatosa or whether you're a lifetime resident, here's your guide to just about everything you need to know about living in the city.

How do I change the address on my driver's license?

You can do this over the phone, through the mail or in person at the nearest state Department of Motor Vehicle location. The nearest DMV office is located at 7301 W. Mill Road in Milwaukee. If you'd rather do it via the mail or phone, you can get the details at the DMV's web site.

How do I change my address with the Postal Service?

You can do this in person at the Wauwatosa Post Office, 1655 N. Mayfair Road, or you can do it online at the Postal Service's web site.

How do I register children for school?

During the school year, parents of elementary, middle school and high school students should register their children at their nearest school. During the summer, middle and high school students can still register at the school, but elementary students should register at the district office, 12121 W. North Ave. If you have questions about what school your children will attend, call (414) 773-1000 or visit the Wauwatosa School District's Web site for more information.

When is the trash picked up?

Garbage from single family and two- to four-family homes is picked up weekly at the curb or alley year round, except holidays. Trash should be put in the green wheeled cart provided by the city. Wauwatosa also has a mandatory recycling program. For more details on recycling or trash pickup, visit the city's Department of Public Works Web page.

What are the city's parking rules?

By city ordinance there is no parking on any street between 3 a.m. and 6 a.m., including holidays and weekends. Special permission for overnight parking can be obtained by calling 1-900-388-2800. Overnight permission is limited only to guests, stalled vehicles and vehicles affected by a construction project which makes off street parking impossible.

Where is City Hall? What are the hours?

City Hall is located at 7725 W. North Ave., at the intersection of North and Wauwatosa Ave. It's open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.

Who are my local elected officials? How can I reach them?

Wauwatosa has a part-time mayor, Jill Didier, and a full-time city administrator, James Archambo. Mayor Didier is the chief executive officer and official spokesperson for Wauwatosa. Tom Wontorek serves as the chief operating officer for the city. The Common Council consists of 16 aldermen, with two elected from each of eight districts. Find phone numbers and e-mail address for all city officials. Here's a map of aldermanic districts to find out who your alderman is.

Where is the local library? What are the library hours?

The Wauwatosa Public Library is located at 7635 W. North Ave. in the Civic Center at North Ave. and W. 76th St. The library is open seven days a week in the spring, winter and fall, but is closed Sundays in the summer. Library hours are online, or you can call (414) 471-8484.

How do I register to vote? Where do I vote?

You can register at the City Clerk's office at City Hall, 7725 W. North Ave., Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. You also can register at the Wauwatosa Library, 7635 W. North Ave., on evenings and weekends except for the two weeks prior to an election, when registration must occur at the City Clerk's office. In addition, you can register at the polling place on the day of the election, provided you have proper identification. Details on how to register are online, or you can call the City Clerk's office at (414) 479-8921. Polling locations and ward information are online through the city's Web site.

Where can I learn more about merchants and shopping in Wauwatosa?

Wauwatosa has dozens of fine businesses that offer a large variety of goods and services. The city is home to Mayfair Mall, located on North Ave. and Mayfair Road, and has a vibrant business district on North Avenue. For more information about Tosa businesses, visit the West Suburban Chamber of Commerce web site.