A franchise is a right or special privilege granted by the city to an individual or business, to conduct business, and to use the rights of way for that purpose. Types of businesses that may require a franchise agreement include, but are not limited to, providers of telecommunications, electric energy, natural gas, cable television, video service, ambulance service, solid waste collection and disposal, and recycling collection services. A franchise may be exclusive or nonexclusive. Both types of franchises involve a contract or agreement with the city and the payment of a franchise fee.
The Finance Department, through its Franchise Administration Unit, is responsible for the administration of franchise and other agreements between the city of Las Vegas and businesses that use the city's rights of way or its municipal assets to provide services to the public. These agreements outline the rules, rights and fees associated with using public property for a private purpose.
The city does not administer the types of franchises that are associated with a particular trademark such as certain automobile dealerships, restaurants, convenience stores, hotels and other retail or service businesses that operate pursuant to a private agreement with the owner of the trademark under a prescribed marketing and operating system.
Proposed Ordinances & Resolutions
Inquiries & Complaints
Inquiries and complaints should always be directed to the service provider first. For the following providers, please refer to the information below.
- American Medical Response: 702-671-6951 or AMRfeedback@amr.net
- Century Link: 888-723-8010
- Cox Communications: 702-383-4000
- MedicWest Ambulance: 702-671-6951 orMWAfeedback@medicwest.com
- NV Energy: 702-402-5555
- Republic Services: 702-735-5151
- Southwest Gas: 877-860-6020
If you still have questions or there is an issue that you have been unable to resolve directly with the franchisee, please feel free to contact us at 702-229-1070 or franchise@lasvegasnevada.gov. Note City Hall is closed Fridays. The Franchise Officer can answer questions and will attempt to mediate your dispute in order to reach an acceptable resolution with the company. Some issues are beyond our authority, such as utility service rates that are regulated by the Public Utilities Commission of Nevada, cable television or video service channel lineups and connecting or disconnecting services. All messages received will be responded to by the end of the next business day.
Ambulance Service Franchisees
Solid Waste and Recycling Franchise
Utility Franchisees
Wireless Use Agreements (Pole Attachments)