Emergency Communications & Citizen Services operates two Divisions:
VB911 and
VB311. Each division processes calls for service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
VB911 receives citizens’ calls for service by Police, Fire, and EMS personnel and coordinates those agencies' response. Calling "911" is specifically used for emergency situations where an immediate response is required from public safety personnel. For public safety assistance that is not an emergency or calls that originate from outside the calling area, dial
(757)
385-5000.
VB311 receives and responds to citizen requests for general government information or service via multiple communication

channels such as telephone, online assistance, email, print, radio dispatching and emergency notifications. In addition VB311 assists various city agencies such as the Real Estate Assessor's office with their day-to-day information or service requests, and accepts calls after business hours for other agencies, such as Public Utilities and Public Works. "311" is an easy-to-remember phone number that provides assistance to residents, businesses and visitors. VB311 may also be reached by calling
(757)
385-3111, which is necessary when calling from outside the City or using a mobile device.