Resident guide
Living in Plano
Last verified October 11, 2026
New to Plano, or just never got around to the paperwork? This guide collects the practical steps that make a new city feel like home, with links to the official sources that handle each one.
Plano sits mostly in Collin County, with part of the city in Denton County, about fifteen miles north of Dallas (Handbook of Texas). Which county you live in decides where you register to vote and which county offices you use.
What this guide does not do. What this guide does not do: it does not replace official instructions, and rules and fees change. Always confirm details with the office that handles them.
Your first month in Plano
- Start or transfer water, trash, and recycling service with the City of Plano
- Learn your trash, recycling, and bulk pickup days
- Update the address on your driver license and vehicle registration
- Register to vote with your county elections office
- Look up your school attendance zone if you have kids
- Get a Plano Public Library card
- Sign up for local emergency and weather alerts
Part 1: Get settled
Most of the essentials, from utilities to permits to reporting a problem on your street, run through the City of Plano. Start there and keep the city website bookmarked.
- Utilities and trash service
- Permits for home projects
- Reporting a pothole, streetlight, or other issue
Part 2: Register to vote
Voter registration and elections are run by the county. Collin County residents use the Collin County elections office; residents in the Denton County part of Plano use Denton County.
Part 3: Get around
Most trips in Plano happen by car, but the city is also served by DART, the regional transit agency, with bus and rail service. Check DART for routes and schedules before you plan a car-free trip.
Part 4: Find your people
The fastest way to feel at home is to show up somewhere. Library story times, park events, farmers markets, and festivals are all good places to start.
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