Frequently Asked Questions

What is a MUD?

A Municipal Utility District (MUD) is a political subdivision of the State of Texas authorized by the Texas Water Code (TWC) to provide water, sewage, drainage and other services within the MUD boundaries.

During the 1970s, Austin voters defeated several bond issues intended to finance the extension of city services to new subdivisions.  Without MUDs people would have to depend on wells and septic systems.

One advantage of MUDs include the fact that MUDs match the people who benefit from certain services with those who pay for those services. In addition, MUDs allow desirable land closer in to a city to be developed without having to depend on wells and septic tanks.  They help safeguard the environment by maintaining environmental standards prescribed by the city and by the Texas Water Development Board.

How does a MUD work?

The publicly elected Board of Directors manages and controls all of the affairs of the MUD, subject to the continuing supervision of the Texas Water Commission, unlike a neighborhood association.  The Board establishes policies in the interest of its residents and utility customers.  A MUD may adopt and enforce all necessary charges, fees and taxes in order to provide District facilities and services. Additionally, a MUD, with resident approval, may authorize and issue bonds to fund improvements within the MUD.

What are a MUDs functions?

In addition to their common functions of water and wastewater service, MUDs are also legally empowered to engage in conservation, irrigation, solid waste collection and disposal, recycling efforts, and recreational activities, (such as parks, swimming pools, and sports courts).  A MUD can provide for itself the recreational amenities that are approved by the Board of Directors and funded by the District. One of the most common additional MUD functions is the enforcement of deed restrictions to maintain property values within the MUD. MUDs can also provide policing of the MUD (usually contracted) in order to provide a safer community.

What services does Springwoods MUD offer to residents?

The Springwoods MUD provides garbage, recycling and composting services.  They also provide recreational amenities including Springwoods MUD Park that include tennis courts, baseball diamonds/athletic playing fields for youth play, walking trails and pavilions. The Springwoods Swimming Complex also features tennis courts and a large pavilion.   To help residents keep their yards clean, a large item pickup day is scheduled twice a year.  The Springwoods MUD monitors and enforces deed restriction violations.  In addition, the MUD helps keep residents informed with a newsletter and website (www.springwoodsmud.com).  Other services provided by the Springwoods MUD include storm water drainage and channel maintenance.

Who do I call if a streetlight is out or a sign is missing?

The District Manager, Margret Wingrove– 219-2271, can act as a liaison between the Springwoods MUD and other governmental entities such as the City of Austin and Travis County.  She can report problems to the appropriate offices and follow up with the progress.

I’m a new resident.  How do I get signed up for trash, recycling and composting service?

In most cases, a trash receptacle should be at your home from the previous resident.  If not, contact District Manager Margret Wingrove at 219-2271. Trash and recycling pickup is scheduled for Saturday throughout the District.  The cost for solid waste and recycling is actually included in your tax rate so you won’t receive a monthly statement.

Margret can also arrange for you to receive a bin for your yard waste as well. Curbside yard waste pick up is scheduled for Wednesdays. You can include grass clipping, leaves, shrub trimmings and small branches. If you overflow the bin, please use paper yard waste bags. Plastic bags will not be accepted. The plastic gums up the machinery that shreds the yard waste. Click here to see the updated rules regarding yard waste pick up.

Where is the swimming pool located?

From Anderson Mill Road, drive west on Broadmeade.  Count about 10 blocks on the left – a good landmark is an old oak tree that is straddled by the road - and turn left on Lonsdale Drive. After one block, turn right at Parliament House.  The pool, at 9020 Parliament House, is set back from the street on the right side.

From Hwy. 620, turn east on Lyndhurst and then turn left on Parliament House.

What are the fees to use the pool?

Pool membership for Springwoods MUD residents is $100 per family and a $2 tag fee per family member.  For families who do not live in the District, the fee is $200 per family plus a $2 tag fee per family member.

Who do I contact if I have a concern about the maintenance of a neighbor’s yard or home?

Springwoods MUD is able to enforce deed restrictions within its boundaries.  The process is somewhat complicated by the fact that there are several different sets of deed restrictions that have different requirements.  However, most restrictions require that yards are to be maintained in a neat and tidy manner, free of junky items.  Most restrictions also prohibit parking boats and trailers in public view.  If you notice a deed restriction violation, contact District Manager Margret Wingrove at 219-2271 or via e-mail at mwingrove@swwc.com.

Where can I find important phone numbers?

Many important phone numbers to help you set up utility service or locate other helpful services can be found in the Contact Us section of this website.