Bee Cave Police has introduced a new telephone number for non-emergency police matters after changing its 911 dispatch provider.

Residents should call 512-767-6650 and select option 1 for a non-emergency police issue. The department says examples include reporting a crime that has already happened and nuisance complaints involving noise or aggressive animals.

For the status of an existing police report or a request for a copy, callers should use the same number and select option 2 for Records.

When to call 911

The new number does not replace 911. Call 911 when there is an immediate threat to life or safety, a crime is in progress, a fire or serious collision has occurred, or urgent medical help is needed.

A situation that began as non-urgent can become an emergency. If circumstances change and someone is in immediate danger, callers should use 911 rather than waiting on the administrative line.

People unsure whether a matter is urgent should describe the current risk clearly. They should not delay an emergency call because they are worried about choosing the wrong number in good faith.

What information helps

For a non-emergency report, have the location, approximate time, description of what happened and any vehicle or person details available. Do not confront someone or enter an unsafe place to collect extra information.

Photos, video or documents may be relevant, but callers should ask how the department wants evidence submitted. Posting sensitive material publicly can interfere with privacy or an investigation.

When reporting an aggressive animal, explain whether it is loose, whether anyone has been bitten and its last known location. A current safety risk can require a different response from a historical complaint.

Reports and records are different

Option 1 is for non-emergency police issues. Option 2 is for Records, including checking the status of a report or requesting a copy. A records request does not create a new incident report.

Callers seeking a copy may be asked for a report number, date, location or identification. Some information can be withheld or redacted under law, and availability may depend on whether the record has been completed.

Residents should save the new number in their phone but keep 911 separate and clearly labelled. Businesses, homeowners' associations and care providers may also need to update printed contact lists.

Why the number changed

The city says the change follows Bee Cave Police moving to a new 911 dispatch provider. The public notice does not suggest that residents need to re-register for emergency services; it specifically changes the department's non-emergency contact route.

People who use text relay or another accessible communication service should confirm the appropriate route before they need assistance. The published notice gives a voice number but does not describe every accessibility option.

Apartment managers and employers should replace old numbers on noticeboards and emergency plans so staff do not continue directing residents to an obsolete dispatch line.

Checking the saved number now prevents delay later.

The confirmed number and menu options are on the official Bee Cave Police notice.