Officials with the Burleson Police Department are warning about a new scam that uses an invoice claiming to be from the city.
Local businesses reported fraudulent invoices from the “City of Burleson Planning Commission” for $4,000 in fees. The only problem – the commission does not exist.
“We were notified about fraudulent invoices being sent to local businesses, especially those in construction and trades,” Burleson police officials wrote on Facebook. “THIS. IS. A. SCAM.”
They pointed to numerous “red flags” on the fake invoice: the nonexistent commission, “due upon receipt” pressure language, wire transfer instructions, a request for a signed invoice plus wire receipt, low-quality formatting and “fuzzy” logo, and generic fee descriptions.
“The City of Burleson will not email businesses asking for permit fees to be paid by wire transfer,” department officials wrote. “Payments are typically handled through official channels such as approved online payments, check, or in-person options, not wiring money to an out-of-state bank.”
If residents receive an invoice like this, they should not pay or reply. If it seems legitimate, they should verify before paying by calling the city at its official phone number listed online, not the one on the invoice.
Burleson police also asked residents to report fake invoices so they can track them and warn others. They can message the department online or call the non-emergency line at 817-426-9903.
“Staying alert protects you and helps protect our entire business community,” they wrote.
Residents in North Texas should be cautious of scams, as they can impact anyone.
The Denton Police Department warned residents in November 2025 about scam calls in which the suspect impersonates an officer and demands money, as The Dallas Express reported at the time.
The Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office warned the public in September that scammers were using a similar tactic.
The Dallas Police Department also warned in July about a scammer impersonating a sergeant, calling residents, and demanding money, as The Dallas Express reported.
Investigators with the Garland Police Department arrested a Frisco woman in August for tricking an elderly couple into giving her $25,000.
