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Community Services

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1. How much is a building permit and how do I know if I need one?

The cost of the permit depends on the type of work being done. Its better to call and ask if you need a permit rather than get caught without one and have to tear out your work. Call 215-3030

2. I have a San Pablo address, but when I went to City Hall, I was told I don't live in the city. How can that be?

Some neighborhoods in our area are not within the boundaries of any city. They are unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County. The Post Office needs to deliver mail to these neighborhoods, so it uses the name of the nearest post office. Rollingwood, Tara Hills, Bayview and Montalvin are all unincorporated areas that have San Pablo addresses.

3. Does the City offer yard cleanup services?

The city provides dump vouchers to residents to help with the cost of hauling waste to the local landfill. Dump vouchers are available at the Community Services Department at 13831 San Pablo Avenue, Building #3, Monday through Friday 7:40 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., except holidays. You must live in the city of San Pablo and provide proof of city address by utility bill (telephone or water) and drivers license. Each resident may receive eight vouchers per year. Call 215-3030.

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Economic Development

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1. What is Economic Development?

Economic development means different things to different people. On a broad scale, anything a community does to foster and create a healthy economy can fall under the auspice of economic development.

2. Why is Economic Development important?

At its heart, economic development is about building healthy economies in order to have healthy communities.

These are just a few of the ways in which economic development helps communities:

•§ Increased Tax Base...the additional revenue provided by economic development supports, maintains, and improves local infrastructure, such as roads, parks, libraries, and emergency medical services.
•§ Job Development...economic development provides better wages, benefits, and opportunities for advancement.
•§ Business Retention...businesses feel appreciated by the community and, in turn, are more likely to stay in town, contributing to the economy.
•§ Economic Diversification...a diversified economic base helps expand the local economy and reduces a community's vulnerability to a single business sector.
•§ Self-sufficiency...a stronger economic base means public services are less dependent on intergovernmental influences and alliances, which can change with each election.
•§ Productive Use of Property...property used for its "highest and best use" maximizes the value of that property.
•§ Quality of Life...more local tax dollars and jobs raise the economic tide for the entire community, including the overall standard of living of the residents.
•§ Recognition of Local Products...successful economic development often occurs when locally produced goods are consumed in the local market to a greater degree.

3. Why does Economic Development matter to business?

The role of today's economic developer evolves continuously. An economic developer is responsible for planning, designing, and implementing economic development strategies, as well as acting as a key liaison between public and private sectors and the community.

Economic developers are also instrumental in helping to leverage finances from both the public and private sectors--funding that is critical to help communities attract new businesses, facilitate enterprise development, and assist existing business with expansion and troubleshooting.

4. Why Local Economic Development?

Because every business locates in a city or county, and it's those local-level Economic Development professionals who assist these businesses and help them thrive; thereby, creating jobs and revenues for the communities they serve.

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Environmental Services

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1. Why is composting food scraps good for the environment?

Instead of going to the landfill, food scraps will be composted. Compost is used to improve soil, so instead of taking up space in the landfill, it will benefit homeowners and farmers.

2. Will food scraps attract rodents to my yard?

You must keep the bin lid closed to keep rodents away. If your green bin is overfull, DO NOT add food waste to the open top.

3. Is the food going to smell bad in my green bin?

To prevent odors, we recommend you add food after some yard trimmings have been added to the green bin and layer food scraps between yard trimming layers. In addition, you can wrap your food scraps in used newspaper or soiled paper containers such as food containers, paper take out boxes, etc. Keeping the bin in the shade will help too.

4. Why not just put food down the garbage disposal?

Garbage disposals use energy to grind food and water to carry it into the sewer system where it can build up in the pipes and clog the sewer lines. This can cause foul-smelling odors, unsanitary back-ups, and overflows in your home and the streets.

5. What paper can I put in the compost bin?

Any food-soiled paper such as used napkins and paper towels, paper plates, newspaper used to wrap your food scraps in or used take out containers made of paper.

6. Should I put all paper in the green bin?

NO, it is best to put paper and cardboard in the blue recycle bin, unless it is soiled by food.

7. What if I can't stand the smell coming from my neighbor's green bin?

Contact the city at (510)215-3083.

8. Why did the City choose to accept food scrap composting?

The State has mandated that we reduce the amount of waste going to the landfill. Composting food is helping us to achieve our waste reduction goals.

9. How much am I going to pay for this "service"?

The monthly fees for San Pablo residents will increase by approx. $.32 per green bin starting in January, 2011.

10. Can I use compostable food bags to dump my food scraps in the green bin?

BioBag® bags are the only approved compostable bag allowed. Purchase the compostable bags to line your kitchen pail. If you have questions about the bags, contact Richmond Sanitary Service at 510-262-7100.

11. Where can I get a kitchen pail to keep my food scraps in until I dump them in the green bin?

Free kitchen pails with lids will be available for pick up by San Pablo residents at San Pablo City Hall, 13831 San Pablo Ave, Building 3, Mon-Fri 8-4. You must bring a copy of a recent PG&E bill to receive a pail. Limit one pail per household.

12. Am I required to participate?

The pilot program is a voluntary way to reduce your environmental footprint and the amount of waste you send to the landfill. If you have concerns about your own ability to participate without properly managing bad odors or pests, you may continue to use your garbage bin to dispose of your food scraps.

13. Should I compost everything I can?

Participation in the food scrap composting program is not an “all-or-nothing” proposition. If you have concerns about particular food scrap items creating a bad odor or attracting pests, (e.g. dairy and meat) then please continue to use your garbage bin to dispose of these items.

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Historical and Museum Society

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1. What days and hours are the Alvarado Adobe, Blume House and Bunk House open for public viewing?

The Alvarado Adobe, Blume House and Bunk House are open to the Public on the Second and Fourth Sunday of each month between Noon and 4 PM. Staff Permitting. Admissions is FREE. If you have any other questions please call (510) 215-3046 and leave a brief message someone will return your call.

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Home Page FAQ

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1. What are the new office hours for City Hall?

Effective July 1st, 2011, City Hall offices are open from Monday thru Thursday, 7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Open during lunch time to maximize services available to the community. Please note that Administrative offices will be closed on Fridays. Additional Info...

2. Is there a facility that I can rent for a Wedding?

Yes. Maple Hall is located at 13831 San Pablo Ave #4 at Alvarado Square inside the the City Hall Complex. Grounds include the attractive gardens, a Spanish style courtyard and a lighted water fountain that serves as a focal point in the center of the Plaza. The complex is well maintained and quiet. Fields and Facilty Reservations

3. Where can I apply for a job with the City?

City Hall is located at 13831 San Pablo Avenue. The Personnel Office is located in Building 1. General employment questions can be referred to (510) 215-3000.

TO APPLY FOR ANY CITY JOB: Go to www.calopps.org and follow the online application system. Paper applications will not be accepted. Applications must be received via CalOpps by 5 PM on the date listed on the job announcement. Applications not received by the posted date and time will not be considered.
Employment Opportunites

4. What's the new building "Las Montanas" next to City Hall?

Las Montanas is a large grocery store specializing in Latin food and products.

The grocer identified the old Home Depot/Yardbirds site as a key location to enter the San Pablo market. The building that has sat vacant for over two years is currently going through both interior and exterior facelifts to reflect the new business.

In addition to fresh ethnic, the new retailer will house several mini-food service areas.

Las Montanas is expected to open for business the first quarter of 2011.

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Human Resources

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1. How do I find out what job openings there are at the City?

Current employment opportunities with the City of San Pablo are listed on the Personnel/Assistant to the City Manager webpage or by calling the job hotline at (510) 215-3085. General employment questions can be referred to (510) 215-3000.

TO APPLY FOR ANY CITY JOB: Go to www.calopps.org and follow the online application system. Paper applications will not be accepted. Applications must be received via CalOpps by 5 PM on the date listed on the job announcement. Applications not received by the posted date and time will not be considered.

Paper applications will not be accepted.

2. Where can I pick up the employment application and any other application materials I would need to apply for an open position?

PAPER APPLICATIONS WILL NO LONGER BE ACCEPTED. Please go to www.calopps.org and follow the online application system.

Applications must be received via CalOpps by 5 PM on the date listed on the job announcement. Applications not received by the posted date and time will not be considered.

Detailed city job announcements are also available in the Personnel Office (Bldg. 1) lobby.

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Planning and Zoning

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1. Can I add onto my house?

Yes, the City of San Pablo encourages a well planned home addition. House additions are allowed up to the limits of the minimum setback and maximum lot coverage requirements. Refer to the answer to Question 4 for typical residential setbacks. Typical maximum lot coverage is 45%, and a Design Review permit is required "for all additions over 120 square feet" including any accessory buildings. (An accessory building is a detached, subordinate building, not designed or used for human habitation).

2. Can I build a secondary unit, or in-law unit, on my property?

To build a secondary unit, the minimum lot size has to be 5,000 square feet and it has to be owner-occupied. Refer to Title 17.10.080 of the Municipal Code for additional regulations on secondary units.

3. Can I change the zoning or General Plan designation of my property?

Zone changes and General Plan amendments require Planning Commission review and the approval of the City Council. Zone changes require a General Plan amendment if the proposed zoning district is not consistent with the General Plan. Planning Commission

4. What is the zoning of my property, and what are the yard/setback requirements?

The Planning Division maintains a map that shows zoning for every parcel in the City. The zoning map can be viewed in the Planning Division lobby, or anyone can call (510) 215-3043 to speak with a planner regarding specific zoning, setback, and related questions. Typical minimum setbacks in single family neighborhoods are 20 feet for front setbacks, 15 feet for rear setbacks, and side setbacks may vary from 3-6 feet. Zoning Map

5. What are setbacks?

The term setback means the required distance separating a building or structure from a property line. Setback regulations for buildings are included in the Zoning Ordinance under Title 17. Setback regulations for accessory structures are included in the Zoning Ordinance under Title 17.

6. What is zoning?

Zoning is the establishment of various districts that include all the territory within the boundaries of the city, within which the use of land and buildings, the space for buildings, and the height and bulk of buildings are regulated. See zoning map to view districts. Zoning Map

7. Can I convert my garage into an extra room?

This is a growing problem in the city of San Pablo. Since there is a requirement for two covered parking spaces for each single family, condominium, or apartment dwelling, converting the garage is not possible. In some instances, it may not be possible to locate a useable carport or garage on older, very small lots and still stay outside the setback areas. If the lot can accommodate an additional garage or carport to meet the parking requirement, then converting an existing garage may be possible. Consult with the Planning Division before taking on this project.

8. Can I build a storage shed/shop/garage in my backyard?

One "accessory building" is permitted on each parcel (note: a detached garage does not count as an accessory building). Minimum side and rear setbacks of 3 feet are required, and it is advisable to separate the accessory building from the primary building by at least 6 feet. If the accessory building is less than 120 square feet, no building permit is required. A building permit and Design Review is required for an accessory building of 120 square feet or larger. The height limit of an accessory building is 12 feet.

9. Can I add a second-floor above my existing residence?

Yes, in almost all cases, but additional side yard setbacks may apply for added privacy. But, typically there are no restrictions to adding a second floor above an existing residence. However, a use permit and Planning Commission approval is required for lots that are 25 feet wide.

10. What is a parcel?

A parcel is the legal term for an individual property. The legal deginifion is: a parcel is a section of land that has frontage on an improved public or private street. Refer to the “General Definitions” section under Title 17.04.050 of the Municipal Code for a more detailed definition for this and other terms.

11. Where can I build a six-foot fence?

A six-foot tall fence is allowed on property lines at the rear and sides of most residential properties. A fence up to four (4) feet is allowed within the first 20 feet of a property as measured from the front property line. A six-foot fence may be constructed 20 feet back from the front property line. Refer to Section 17.30.060 of the Municipal Code for more information.

12. Is my property in the earthquake fault zone?

The Hayward Fault Zone is shown on an available map in the Planning Division. Many real estate offices also have maps of the fault zones. Check with the Planning Division at 215-3043 for specific determination of fault zone limits.

13. I bought a house with an illegal addition. How do I make things legal?

While these situations are often difficult to resolve, it is to the property owner's advantage to make past construction legal. It is important to determine what permits were previously issued, if any, and what construction has been inspected and properly completed. Some of the questions that will need answers include: Was a permit issued by the City? Were the permits finalized? Was any of the construction inspected but not finalized? If such information can be clarified by the Building Department or Tax Assessors’ records, the Planning Division staff will be able to provide a property owner with options for obtaining the proper permits and inspections.

In these cases, it is not unusual for properties to have to demolish or reconfigure illegal work, or to obtain both Planning Division and Building Department approvals and permits for work that was done illegally. Learn more...

(This question also applies to Residential Health and Safety inspections that discover illegal construction during a sale transaction Learn more...

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Public Works

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1. Some individuals in my neighborhood damaged one of the new trees the city just planted, what can I do?

Vandalism is an ongoing problem for the City. Each tree costs $150 to replace. If you see anyone damaging street trees please call the Police at 510.215.3130.

2. How do I find out when the Street Sweeper will sweep streets in my area?

Commercial streets are swept four times per month (consult signs where posted). Residential streets are swept Tuesdays or Wednesdays every other week. Only public streets are swept. Please consult the Street Sweeping/No Parking signs before you park. Tickets are $60.00! See our street sweeping 2011 Calendar and map, or 2011 Calendar (Spanish) and map (Spanish) for questions call 510.215.3030. Street Sweeping

3. The areas around Pullman and Van Ness overflowed during the rainy season and flooded some houses. What is the City doing to prevent that in the future?

Storm drains flow into the creeks and San Pablo and Wildcat creeks have limited capacities and are located on private property. Therefore the city can not control the creek flow or capacity. The city encourages homeowners along the creeks to help keep the drains clear of obstructions and to purchase flood insurance.

4. How do I get speed bumps installed on my street?

Streets on which speed humps have been requested are evaluated for conformance with specific criteria which have been adopted by the City Council and approved by the Police and Fire Departments. These criteria include things such as the type of street, whether it's a Primary Emergency Response Route, volume of traffic, measured speed of traffic, road geometry, etc. You may call 510.215.3030 to request an application package.

5. Who should I call to report a street light that's out?

Please call Public Works at 510.215.3030 to report it. It is very is mportant to provide the address where the street light is located and the pole number, which can be found on the pole itself, we will notify PG&E so they can fix it. Or you can report it directly to PG&E's website listed below. Street Light Outage

6. There is a pothole in my street. What can I do about it?

Call Public Works Maintenance at 510.215.3078 to report it. We will schedule a crew to patch it.

7. Do I need a permit to fix my sewer line?

Yes. In fact, you probably need 2 permits. One from West County Wastewater District at (510) 222-6700, and one from the City Public Works Division for any excavation in the street or sidewalk. Also, please note that any work in the street must be done by a licensed contractor with a Class A, C-12, C-34 or D-56 license, or a combination of a C36 and a T-1, or a C-42 and a T-1 license.

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Recreation

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1. How do I register for classes?

You can register for classes online.

2. How do I rent a City facility?

We have a wide range of rooms and facilities available. We can accommodate your wedding reception, family party, or business meeting.

View Facility Rentals.

3. What are your office hours?

The Recreation Office is open Monday - Friday 7:40am - 5:00pm

4. What classes and camps are currently available?

The Parks and Recreation Department offers a wide variety classes and camps throughout the year. For a complete listing, please view Classes and Camps.