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Animal Control

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1. My dog is missing. What resources are available to find it?

Photos of all animals currently housed in our animal shelter can be found in a photo gallery (link below). If you see an animal that you believe belongs to you, call (417) 833-3592 or send an e-mail to hferrier@springfieldmo.gov to find out more about viewing and claiming it. We strongly recommend owners view animals in person before assuming it belongs to them. Photo Gallery: Animals Currently in the Shelter

2. How do I know if I live inside Springfield city limits?

View the following map to see if you live the area. The colored Council zone areas are inside city limits. Zoom in on the map for a more detailed view down to the street level. Springfield city limits map

3. Are there any clinics in the area that provide reduced prices for spay or neuter services?

The Springfield Animal Advocacy Foundation (SAAF) provides reduced prices for spay or neuter services. Visit their website for more information. Springfield Animal Advocacy Foundation

4. How old must my cat or dog be before it can be spayed or neutered?

Consult with your veterinarian, or contact the Springfield Animal Advocacy Foundation. They are able to spay / neuter juvenile animals. Springfield Animal Advocacy Foundation

5. What do I do if I find a bat in my house?

If it is just one bat, try to confine it to one room of the house and call Animal Control at (417) 833-3592.

6. How old must a cat or dog be to receive the rabies vaccine?

Animals should typically be 16 weeks of age before receiving their rabies vaccine. Check with your vet if you have additional questions.

7. How often do I have to register my pit bull or pit bull mix?

You must renew your pit bull registration annually. The fee for renewal is $50.

8. There are feral cats in my neighborhood inside the Springfield city limits. Can you help?

Call (417) 833-3592, and officers will set a trap to catch the cats. You must be home when the trap is delivered. Traps will not be set during extreme weather conditions.

9. Can a monkey be a service animal?

No. Please see the following webpage for service animal regulations. Americans with Disabilities Act Fact Sheet

10. My neighbor has chickens in his backyard. What can Animal Control enforce on that situation?

City ordinance allows a resident to have up to six hens. If that number has been exceeded, or chickens are running loose, please call (417) 833-3592.

11. There is a dog in a car with the windows rolled up, and it is very hot/cold outside. Whom should I call?

Please call 9-1-1.

12. Why doesn’t the shelter adopt directly to individuals?

Space is very limited at our current location, and many times there will be several animals in the same cage or kennel. There is no separate area for prospective adopters to interact with individual animals. However, we have found success teaming with partner agencies who specialize in animal adoption.

We rely on our numerous rescue partners to decide which animals are going to make the best pets for people. Once they pull animals from our shelter, they quarantine them for at least two weeks to make sure they are healthy. Spay/neuter procedures will also take place while the animal is in care of the rescue, along with many other standard health tests for conditions such as heartworm or feline leukemia. By adopting out animals in this manner, we see less than 1% of animals return to the shelter.

13. Who can bring an animal to the animal shelter?

Individuals who live inside the city limits of Springfield, Missouri can bring a dog or cat to the shelter. You must bring proof of residency. The animal must also be from inside the city limits. There is a $20 fee for surrendering animals. Please call (417) 833-3592 in advance to verify that there are openings for cats.

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Birth & Death Certificates

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1. How can I get a birth certificate?

If you were born in Missouri and you are in the area, you can come into this office and get one. You can also mail us a check for $15 for each certificate you want made out to "City of Springfield". Our address is 227 East Chestnut Expressway, Springfield, MO 65802.

If you mail the form in, it must be notarized before you mail it in. If you reside in another state, you may order one by computer through VitalChek and charge the fee to a major credit card. VitalChek

2. How can I get a death certificate?

If the death was in Missouri and you are in the area, you can come into this office and get one. You can also mail us a check for $13 for the first and $10 for each additional certificate for the same person ordered at the same time. Our address is 227 East Chestnut Expressway, Springfield, MO 65802.

If you mail in the form, it must be notarized. If you reside in another state, you may order one through VitalChek and charge the fee to a major credit card. VitalChek

3. How long does it take to receive a birth or death certificate?

Once the form is received and paid for, it is printed while you wait. The time is approximately 2 to 5 minutes.

4. What payment methods are accepted?

You may pay with cash, check, money order, or credit card (Visa, MasterCard or Discover).

5. Where do I go to get my birth certificate interpreted from Spanish to English for a driver's license?

You take the original certificate in Spanish to the License Bureau. They will send it off to Jefferson City and it will be interpreted there and then returned to you along with your driver's license.

6. How can I get my child's last name changed? I am married to the father now and want to put his name on it and have the child's last name changed to his.

You must call Jefferson City Legal Department at (573) 751-6378 and ask them to send you papers to legitimize the birth and add father's name to the certificate.

7. How do I add the father's name to my child's birth certificate? We are not married but we want to add his name.

You can do this by calling Jefferson city (573) 751-6378 for a Parental Affidavit or by getting one from your local Health Department Vital Records Office. This must be signed by both, mother and father, in front of a Notary or witnesses and sent to Jefferson City Legal Department. The address is:

Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services
P.O. Box 570
Jefferson City, MO 65102

8. How can I get the father's name off of my child's birth certificate?

This can only be done with a court order signed by a judge. Call Jefferson City Office for further directions (573) 751-6378.

9. I have a copy of my birth certificate but it does not have a raised seal on it. Can you just stamp the seal on it for me?

No, but if you were born in Missouri, we can issue you a new certified copy with the state seal on it for $15.00.

10. I am doing a genealogy study, do you have records in your office I can come in and look at?

No, our office only has access to computerized birth certificates back to 1921 and death certificates back to 1980. We can issue only a computer copy with a state seal. For a more complete copy for genealogy, write to Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, P.O. Box 570, Jefferson City, MO 65102. Their records have more information for genealogy and they will do a five year search and send you the certificate for $15.00. Be sure to ask for a photostat copy.

11. I need a long form birth certificate that shows I have American Indian heritage. Where can I get one?

Photostat copies of Missouri Birth Certificates can be ordered from Missouri Department of Health for $15.00. The address is P.O. Box 570, Jefferson City, MO 65102.

12. I have had a baby at home. How do I get a birth certificate made?

If the birth took place in Missouri, you will need to contact the state office in Jefferson City, Missouri for the paperwork to create a birth certificate. The phone number is (573) 751-6378. When it is put into the computer, you can obtain a certified copy of the birth certificate from our office for $15.00.

If the birth took place in another state, you must obtain your form and file the birth certificate through that state.

13. Do I need my birth certificate to get a social security card?

Only if you are getting your social security card for the first time. For more information, call the Social Security Office for further instructions at (877) 850-7824.

14. Can I use VitalChek to order a certified photostat copy of a birth or death certificate?

Yes. You must use only the Jefferson City site in VitalChek. When entering the birth or death information into the VitalChek order form, make sure to type "Long Form" into the "Reason" section. This will let them know that you want a certified photostat copy of the original birth or death certificate.

15. Where do I get an "APOSTILE"?

At the Secretary of States Office. The address is 149 Park Central Square, Springfield, MO 65806 and the phone number is (417) 895-6330. The fee is $15.00.

16. What do I need to get my birth certificate?

You will need a photo ID. If you do not have a photo ID, you will need two forms of ID. Some examples are social security card, a piece of mail with your name and address, a paystub, car registration, voter registration, insurance card, credit card with your picture and name, yearbook with your name and picture or a speeding ticket.

17. Who can get a death certificate?

A close relative can obtain a certificate. If you are not related, you have to have a legal reason to get a copy.

18. Who can get a birth certificate?

A first degree relative of the person up to but not including cousins. If you are the father and your name is not on the birth certificate, you have to have court papers showing you have custody of the child. If you are not a relative, you have to have court paperwork showing you have custody of the child.

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Community Health & Epidemiology

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1. How can I have my well water tested?

Water samples may be dropped off for testing Monday through Wednesday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Thursday from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm, excluding holidays, at the Harold K. Bengsch Building:
227 E. Chestnut Expy.
Springfield, MO 65802

Call the laboratory at (417) 864-1673 for testing schedules during holiday weeks.

2. Do you offer HIV / AIDS testing?

The Health Department's in-house clinic provides confidential testing and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases and confidential / anonymous HIV testing at no cost to the client. View the following webpage to find additional information. HIV and AIDS Information

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Environmental Health

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1. Who can I contact about trash or garbage that is piling up?

Disposal of garbage in Springfield and Greene County is the responsibility of the property owner, and all trash pick-up within the city and county is handled by private hauling companies, not local governments.


Complaints about unattended garbage inside the City of Springfield can be directed to the City's Public Information Department at (417) 864-1010 or via an online form linked below. The city's Building Development Services Department is responsible for inspecting and enforcing such complaints. If BDS inspectors find a potential health issue such as rodents or other pests, they will contact the health department for a follow-up. Complaints in unincorporated Greene County should be directed to the County's Planning & Zoning office at (417) 864-4005.

Here are some questions you will need to answer if you file a complaint about trash: What is the exact street address of the property in question? Can inspectors view the trash from the public right-of-way without having to trespass? If not, would the person filing the complaint be willing to let the inspector onto their property so the inspector can see what they see?

Citizen Service Request Online Form

2. What can I do about black mold in my residence?

Not all dark or black-colored mold is the kind of mold that might make someone sick. While certain molds are toxigenic, meaning they can produce toxins (specifically mycotoxins), the molds themselves are not toxic, or poisonous. Hazards presented by molds that may produce mycotoxins should be considered the same as other common molds which can grow in your house. There is always a little mold everywhere - in the air and on many surfaces. There are very few reports that toxigenic molds found inside homes can cause unique or rare health conditions.


There are no laws or codes specifically dealing with mold in rental properties. There are rules about structural and/or safety issues that could lead to mold (such as a hole in exterior walls or leaking roofs) but not the mold itself. It would be a matter between the tenant and/or the landlord, and if there’s a problem between them it would become a civil matter for the courts. Our advice on these issues is to get plenty of photo documentation and conduct all correspondence in writing. If you do wish to file a complaint, the best place to do so is with the City’s Public Information Department by calling (417) 864-1010.


In most cases mold can be removed from hard surfaces by a thorough cleaning with commercial products, soap and water, or a bleach solution of no more than 1 cup of bleach in 1 gallon of water. Absorbent or porous materials like ceiling tiles, drywall, and carpet may have to be thrown away if they become moldy. If you have an extensive amount of mold and you do not think you can manage the cleanup on your own, you may want to contact a professional who has experience in cleaning mold in buildings and homes. More information from the Centers for Disease Control can be found at the link below.

CDC Facts About Mold

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Food Inspections

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1. How do I submit a restaurant complaint?

Enter a service request on our website at the link below. Please provide as much detail as possible about your experience at the restaurant. If you suspect you have food poisoning, please be ready to provide a personal food history of your last 6 meals consumed. If key information is not provided (day, time, what was consumed, and onset of illness) we may not investigate your complaint. Service Request

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Laboratory Services

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1. How can I have my well water tested?

Water samples may be dropped off for testing Monday through Wednesday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Thursday from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm, excluding holidays, at the Harold K. Bengsch Building:
227 E. Chestnut Expy.
Springfield, MO 65802

Call the laboratory at (417) 864-1673 for testing schedules during holiday weeks.

2. When does the department release pollen count information?

Pollen counts start in February or March (dependent upon the weather) and run through November 1 or the first heavy frost, whichever comes first. During that time, the department releases daily pollen counts for the previous 24-hour period.

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Main

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1. How do I contact a health department employee?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information. Members of the media are asked to contact the Public Information Administrator as a starting point in their query.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

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Maternal, Child, and Family Health

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1. What is your "Nurse-On-Call" program?

The Springfield-Greene County Health Department has a "nurse-on-call" Monday through Friday from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. to answer basic health care questions. To speak to a nurse during these times, please call (417) 864-1684 and ask for the nurse-on-call.

2. How do I make an appointment for a physical?

The Springfield-Greene County Health Department no longer offers this service. Please contact your primary care provider for this service.

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Sexually Transmitted Diseases

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1. Is there a cost to be tested or treated at the health department's STD clinic?

Most testing and treatments are free. However, optional Hepatitis B testing is $20.

2. Do I have to live in Greene County to be seen?

No. It does not matter what county, state or country in which you live.

3. What information do I need to bring to the STD clinic?

For registration purposes, you will need to supply your name, address, date of birth, and social security number (if you have one). This information is kept private.

4. Can a person under 18 years old get tested without their parent’s permission?

In Missouri, minors can be tested and treated for sexually transmitted disease without parental consent.

5. Will my information be kept private?

Your personal information is handled in a professional, confidential manner according to HIPAA rules and state laws. If you enter the lobby before 8:00 am, you will notice clipboards with numbers and clinic forms. Take the numbered clipboard and complete the paperwork while waiting for the clinic to open.

At 8:00 AM, the clinic registration will begin. The clerical staff will call numbers. When your number is called, take the number and clipboard with completed paperwork and give to clerical staff. She will get you signed into the computer and will call the nurse when they have you ready. A medical staff member will alert you when it is your turn to be seen and they will escort you to the clinic room.

6. What is the process and how do I register to be tested or treated for and STD?

The lobby doors at the Harold K. Bengsch Building open at 7:30 AM. Number and registration forms are available at that time. If you enter the lobby before 8:00 AM, you will notice clipboards with numbers and clinic forms. Take the numbered clipboard and complete the paperwork while waiting for the clinic to open.

At 8:00 AM, the clinic registration will begin. The clerical staff will call numbers. When your number is called, take the number and clipboard with completed paperwork and give it to clerical staff. They will get you signed into the computer and will call the nurse when they have you ready. A medical staff member will alert you when it is your turn to be seen and they will escort you to the clinic room.

Harold K. Bengsch Building location

7. What is the difference between the Express Clinic and the regular STD Clinic?

The Express Clinic is only for urine collection and blood draws by lab staff. No nurse appointment is necessary. The Express Clinic offers:
• Urine tests for gonorrhea and Chlamydia
• Blood draws for HIV and/or syphilis
• Optional Hepatitis B blood test is $20. (Pay at Vital Records desk and give receipt to medical provider before blood is drawn.)
• No treatments or counseling

The STD Clinic offers:
• Urine tests for gonorrhea and Chlamydia
• Blood draws for HIV and/or syphilis
• Optional Hepatitis B blood test for $20. (Pay at Vital Records desk and give receipt to medical provider before blood draw.)
• Vaginal tests for Trichomoniasis (“Trich”).
• Herpes swab test for active genital sores/blisters. No herpes blood test available.
• Additional testing for individuals who are having vaginal or urethral symptoms.
• Treatments for gonorrhea, Chlamydia, syphilis or “Trich” if that person or a recent partner has been diagnosed.

8. Can I sign up for both the Express Testing and the regular STD Clinic?

No. If you are having symptoms or need treatment, you should sign up for the regular STD Clinic. Exceptions to this would be if the nurse is unavailable or the regular STD Clinic is full.

9. What can I be tested for?

Express Clinic:
•Urine tests are for gonorrhea and Chlamydia
•Blood draws for HIV and/or syphilis
•Optional Hepatitis B blood test is $20 (Pay at Vital Records desk and give receipt to medical provider before blood draw.)

STD Clinic offers:
•Urine tests are for gonorrhea and Chlamydia
•Blood draws for HIV and/or syphilis
•Optional Hepatitis B blood test is $20 (Pay at Vital Records desk and give receipt to medical provider before blood draw.)
•Vaginal test for Trichomoniasis “trich”
•Herpes swab test for active genital sores/blisters. No herpes blood test available.
•Additional testing for individuals who are having vaginal or urethral symptoms.

10. Can I make an appointment?

Appointments are only made under special circumstances and through the STD nurse:
If you have been diagnosed with an STD or your current or recent partner has informed you that they have an STD, you may call the clinic nurse to make special arrangements for treatment or you can come to the walk-in clinics. Calling in advance to make arrangements with the nurse helps to ensure you get seen as soon as possible.

11. How long will I have to wait to be tested?

Wait time varies according to the number of staff available and each person's individual needs that day. Rule of thumb is to allow yourself plenty of time. Wait time can be from 15 minutes to a couple of hours for testing or treatments. Treatments with advance arrangements will be seen on a priority basis. Those who come in for test results are seen as soon as possible and worked in before the next tester.

12. Will my test results be back the same day?

The following information is subject to change without notice:
•Gonorrhea, Chlamydia and syphilis results can take 3-5 working days to get back.
•HIV results can take 7-10 working days.
•(Optional) Hepatitis B test results may be back in 3-7 days.

13. How will I get my test results?

•You will receive an orange “return card” to remind you when your HIV results will be in.
•We prefer you come in for your HIV results. All test results will be given at that time.
•If you left a private contact number, we will call you if gonorrhea, Chlamydia, or syphilis is positive.
•If you do not leave a telephone number results can be picked up in person.
•You will need to sign up for the regular STD Clinic to get results. Please refer to clinic hours.

14. Can I get copies of my test results?

Yes. You must provide proper identification for verification.

15. Can another person pick up my results?

No. You must be present to pick up your results.

16. Can my children come into the clinic room?

No. Due to the sensitive nature of the subject and biohazardous material in the trash cans, please make arrangements for someone to watch your child. Do not leave children unattended in the lobby. Babies in baby carriers are allowed.

17. Can I bring another person into the clinic room?

No. Exceptions are made for special circumstances, such as language interpreters or mental impairment.

18. I was recently treated for an STD. Should I be retested? If so, when?

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends retesting in 3 months. The reason for this is because if other partners are involved, the risk of getting infected again is higher. If you want to be tested after being treated, you should wait 3 months or see your regular physician. Retesting is at the nurse’s discretion. If you feel you need to talk with an STD nurse, call 417-864-1684.

19. Can I get tested or treated for genital warts at the STD Clnic?

No. We do not test or treat for genital warts.
•We can talk with you about warts and answer questions you may have.
•If you have a genital growth at the time of the clinic visit, the nurse will be glad to do a visual inspection.
•If you want to be tested or treated for genital warts you must see a physician or other medical provider.

20. Can I get tested for genital herpes?

We only test for genital herpes by rubbing a swab on the suspected outbreak. This is best done when the suspected outbreak is fresh.

We do not provide blood tests for herpes. You will have to see a physician or lab facility such as Any Lab Test Now for blood tests.

21. I have recurring genital herpes outbreaks. Can I get treated at the STD Clinic?

No. We do not treat for previously diagnosed herpes outbreaks.

If you have not been diagnosed with herpes in the past and are having your first suspected outbreak, you may be tested here. In first episode situations, we may opt to give you a prescription to take to your pharmacy at your expense. After that, you will need to see a physician for future treatments if needed.

22. Can I be tested for HIV?

Yes. When we draw blood, we always draw for both syphilis and HIV unless you opt out/decline.

HIV testing is confidential, as is all testing. This means your information is private and not released without your consent and according to state laws.

23. Do you have the 20-minute HIV Quick tests?

No.

24. Can I be tested for Hepatitis B?

Yes. Hepatitis B testing is optional. The charge for this test is $20.

You will need to inform the front desk staff that you would like to purchase the test. Give that receipt to the medical staff before they draw your blood.

25. Can I be tested for Hepatitis C here?

No. We do not provide Hepatitis C testing.

26. Can I get a PAP smear here?

No. We do not provide PAP smears.

27. I have recently been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted disease. Can I be treated here?

We provide treatment if your partner was recently diagnosed with gonorrhea, Chlamydia, syphilis or trichomoniasis ("Trich"). We will need your partner's name and when that partner was diagnosed.

28. I am on my period. Can I still get tested?

If you need a vaginal exam for trichomoniasis, you should wait until your period slows down or stops. You can get your blood drawn for HIV and syphilis. You can provide a urine sample for gonorrhea and Chlamydia if you are not experiencing a heavy flow.

29. I have taken antiboitics in the past 3 weeks. Can I still get tested?

No. For gonorrhea, Chlamydia, trichomoniasis and syphilis you need to be off of antibiotics for 3 weeks to get an accurate test. Yes for HIV testing.

30. I have used vaginal yeast medication in the last week. Can I still get vaginal tests?

No. If you want vaginal testing for trichomoniasis, make sure you have not used vaginal yeast cream, ointments or suppositories.

31. I have used a vaginal douche product in the past week. Can I still get vaginal tests?

No. Douching can flush away both good and bad bacteria which will make the vaginal tests inaccurate. Return for testing when you have not douched. Douching is not good for the normal flora of the vagina and can cause overgrowths of bacteria and fungus. We reocommend you avoid douching entirely.

32. What should I do if I have an allergic reaction to STD medication?

If you have trouble breathing, develop an unusual rash, or experience swelling, you should seek medical attention at an urgent care or emergency room as soon as possible.

33. Can I be seenfor other medical conditions that are not sexually related?

No. The STD Clinic and Express Clinic testing are strictly for sexually transmitted infections only.

34. If I am diagnosed with an STD, will I be put on a "list" or my information released to anyone?

Your information is kept private and is not released to anyone without your written consent, a court order or a child abuse investigation.

We do not post “lists” of people with STDs to the public.

Some diseases, such as gonorrhea, Chlamydia, syphilis, HIV and Hepatitis B are reportable to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (MDHSS). The MDHSS has trained, professional Disease Intervention Specialists who confidentially track and investigate these reportable diseases. The purpose it to ensure that the person and their partner(s) have been adequately treated. The goal is to stop the spread of STDs.

35. What happens if my HIV test is positive?

With routine HIV testing, the State lab will run a screening test. If that test is reactive, the lab will run a confirmatory test. If the confirmatory test is reactive, you have the HIV virus. HIV is treatable. You will be referred to an HIV Case Manager who will help you get in touch with a physician who specializes in HIV. This is your choice and is highly recommended.

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Urban Deer

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1. Do deer live a different life in the urban setting versus their relatives in rural settings?

According to a previous study of 266 collared deer around St. Louis by the Missouri Department of Conservation, deer living in urban settings were found to live a more confined life, with the most common form of death being related to vehicle collisions. There are few predators and/or hunts to control their populations in these settings. Urban deer tend to have smaller home ranges (100-300 acres) than do their rural counterparts. Urban deer are many times more likely to die from vehicle collisions.

2. What is the primary reason for the lack of deer management in urban areas?

Lack of deer management exists because of real or perceived safety concerns and City ordinances that act to limit management. There are often conflicting social attitudes and perceptions about wildlife management in an urban area (i.e., hunting and weapons discharge versus restrictions). Liability and/or political concerns may also be a problem.

3. What is the projected growth rate of Springfield's urban deer herd if we do nothing?

Review of current deer population growth has shown that in as little as 5 years, the total population of deer within the metro area could increase as much as 100% - doubling the current population - if nothing is done to counter their reproductive rates.

4. How did deer populations reach these current levels in our urban/suburban neighborhoods?

In the absence of predation and hunting, vehicles and possibly disease are the only factors that control deer within urban and suburban settings. Also, deer are usually welcomed in most urban settings, at least for a period of time. They soon become unwelcome, but will not be noted as unwelcome until a gross overpopulation begins to affect all involved persons.

5. Can I hunt on any publicly owned land?

No. Hunting is prohibited inside Springfield city limits. The exceptions are occasional urban deer hunts managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation. These hunts are authorized by City Council on a case-by-case basis, and are strictly limited to small number of experienced bow hunters chosen by MDC through a lottery system. Information on scheduled hunts will be made available as they are authorized by City Council.

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Women, Infants & Children

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1. Who can I call if I'm having problems or have questions about breastfeeding?

Contact the Breastfeeding Peer Counselors directly at (417) 851-1583 or after hours line (417) 838-9992.

2. How do I qualify for a breast pump?

We typically do not offer a breast pump before the birth of baby, however you can call the office at (417) 851-1583 and talk to our breastfeeding staff for more information.

3. How do I qualify for WIC?

WIC serves pregnant, post partum and breastfeeding women, infants and children up to the age of five who meet income guidelines and live in the state of Missouri. WIC Prescreening Tool