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1. Can the City Attorney advise citizens in legal matters?

No, the City Attorney cannot provide legal advice to private citizens.  The following organizations may be helpful to citizens seeking legal assistance:

•    Bay Area Legal Aid Legal Advice Hotline:  800-551-5554

•    Contra Costa County Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service: (925) 686-6900

2. Where do I file a small claims court action?

The Contra Costa County Superior Court Small Claims Division handles small claims actions.  Fur further information, please contact the Court Clerk’s Office at: (925) 608-1000.

3. How do I report a criminal matter?

In most cases, crimes must be reported to the police department or other law enforcement agency that has jurisdiction over the city or county where the crime occurred.  If the crime occurred in San Pablo, it should be reported to the San Pablo Police Department: https://www.sanpabloca.gov/1501/Citizens-Online-Reporting

4. How do I submit a Public Records Act (California Public Records Act, Government Code Section 6250 et seq.) request?

The PRA request form can be downloaded here: https://www.sanpabloca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/15234/PUBLIC-RECORDS-REQUEST-Form-RV2022-FILLABLE

Follow the instructions on page 2 of the form regarding how to submit your Public Records Act (PRA) request.  For questions, please call (510) 215-3000.

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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.

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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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1. Where do I find information on facilities available in San Pablo?

Click here to view all San Pablo Facilities. 

2. How do I book a facility rental?

All facility rentals are available on a first-come-first serve basis and must be made 60 days prior to the event. Deposit and application fee are due at the time the reservation is made. Reservations can be made at the San Pablo Community Center located at 2450 Road 20, San Pablo, CA.

Please note: As of July 1, 2021, facility reservations are still closed.  If you would like to be put on an interest list to be notified when we will begin taking facility reservations please email joannap@sanpabloca.gov. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

3. Are my rental fees deducted from my deposit?

No. Deposits and rental fees are separate.

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1. What does the project involve?

The project involves a targeted update to several "elements" (chapters) of the General Plan: Land Use, Housing, Safety, and Public Health. Updates are needed to respond to changing conditions in the community and new State laws. An important objective of the project is to stimulate new housing and jobs in the city to provide a greater variety of choices for people of all ages, abilities, and income levels. The project also involves a new Corridor Plan for Rumrill Boulevard that will be incorporated into the General Plan to describe the community’s vision for the future of the area and guide change over time. 

2. What is a General Plan and who uses it?

The General Plan is San Pablo’s roadmap for the future of the city. It is a long-term document (looking ahead 20 years) that includes text and diagrams to describe how the community wants to see the city develop over time. It specifies locations for various activities (ex: housing, jobs, shops, schools), transportation improvements, new parks and open spaces, and other public infrastructure. The Plan guides urban development within the City limits — including development on both privately-owned and publicly owned land — and is used a basis for land use decisions by government officials such as the Planning Commission and the City Council. All cities and counties in California are required by law to have a general plan.

3. When was the last General Plan updated and what is different about this one?

Our current General Plan was adopted in 2011 and won a national award of excellence from the American Planning Association. In many ways, the Plan is still serving the community well, but times have changes since 2011 and updates are needed to response to emerging trends and new State laws. The rise of internet shopping and e-commerce in recent years has meant a reduced demand for physical shops and the climate is changing, making summers are getting hotter and winters less rainy. The cost of housing is also rising rapidly in San Pablo and throughout California, and by law, the City must plan for at least 746 new homes by 2031 to keep pace with projected demand. The General Plan needs to be updated to address these issues and other key community priorities, including jobs and quality of life.

4. What is the difference between the General Plan and the Zoning Ordinance?

The General Plan and Zoning Ordinance go hand-in-hand. The General Plan establishes broad, long-term policies to guide both private sector development and City investments. The Zoning Ordinance implements General Plan policies through detailed development regulations that specify what activities can happen where, and that specify standards for the height and design of new buildings. State law requires that the Zoning Ordinance be consistent with the General Plan.

5. What is a Housing Element?

The Housing Element is a chapter of the General Plan that outlines the City's plan for addressing local housing needs. One of the key components of the Housing Element is the inventory of sites available for housing, presented in a table showing the location, size and zoning applicable to each site together with a projection of the number of housing units that could realistically be accommodated on the parcel in view of past trends and local conditions. A map of the sites is also included. By law, the Housing Element must also include an assessment of local housing needs, potential constraints to housing production, and fair housing issues - which means any factors that impede access to housing for disadvantaged groups like the disabled, the elderly, or racial of linguistic minorities. In view of that assessment, the Housing Element must include a program of actions to address identified needs, constraints and fair housing issues.

6. What is RHNA?

Pronounced “REE-NAH,” the term stands for Regional Housing Needs Allocation. It is a total number of new housing units the City must plan for over the next 8 years to address expected demand, as determined by the State of California. RHNA is split into four categories representing different levels of affordability, based on median income level in the county ($103,997). San Pablo must ensure the zoning map will allow for construction of sufficient housing at all levels of affordability over the next 8 years in order to meet its RHNA requirements:

Category	Affordability (based on Contra Costa County Area Median Income (AMI))	No. New Units
Very Low Income	Households making less than 50% AMI	173
Low Income	Households making 50-80% AMI	100
Moderate Income	Households making 80-120% AMI	132
Above Moderate Income	Households making more than 120% AMI	341

7. What will be in the Rumrill Boulevard Corridor Plan?

The Rumrill Boulevard Corridor Plan will describe a shared vision for this important corridor in the southwestern part of San Pablo. The Plan will cover a segment of the corridor that runs between Brookside and Costa which has been designated a Priority Development Area (PDA). Today, there is an eclectic mix of businesses and housing on the corridor, but there are also many vacant and underused properties that could be redeveloped. A citywide survey conducted in early 2021 found strong community support for adding higher density housing options along the corridor, improving the look and feel of buildings, and planting trees and green spaces. The Corridor plan is an opportunity to plan holistically for the area and develop a strategy that will lead to improved environmental conditions, economic opportunities, and housing development sites

8. What is the timeline for the project?

The timeline for the project is shown below. Work began in the summer of 2021 and adoption of the General Plan and Housing Element is anticipated in Spring/Summer 2023. Preparation of the Draft Housing Element is being prioritized to meet State-mandated deadlines.

9. How can I get involved?

Community engagement will be a vital component of the project and there will be many opportunities to have your say, including a citywide survey, community meetings, pop-up events around town, and hearings before the Planning Commission and City Council. To learn more about  opportunities to participate and stay in the know, sign up for the mailing list: GeneralPlan@sanpabloca.gov or call 510-215-3030.

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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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1. 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

2. 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.governmentjobs.com and follow the online application system. Paper applications will not be accepted. Applications must be received via GovernmentJobs by 5:00 PM on the date listed on the job announcement. Applications not received by the posted date and time will not be considered.

Employment Opportunites

3. Can I request public records from the City of San Pablo?

Public records, City Council resolutions and ordinances, and other information can be requested by submitting the Records and Information Request Form to the City Clerk's Office. Historical information that is not available from the City Clerk's Office can be obtain from the Civic City Historical Society.

Records and Information Request Form

4. Being creekside property owners, how do we know the right things to do, and how do we handle the problems we face?

The San Pablo Creekside Property Owner's Guidebook will answer your questions and will provide you with the necessary information.

San Pablo Creekside Property Owner's Guidebook

5. Do I live within the city limits of San Pablo?

Click on the link and insert the address: San Pablo City Limit Line

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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 Employment Opportunities webpage.  General employment questions can be referred to (510) 215-3000. TO APPLY FOR ANY CITY JOB: Go to www.governmentjobs.com and follow the online application system.  Applications must be received via GovernmentJobs by 5:00 P.M. 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.governmentjobs.com and follow the online application system. Applications must be received via GovernmentJobs by 5 00 P.M. 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 available on the Employment Opportunities webpage.

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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 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

3. 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) 215-3030 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

4. 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.

5. 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

6. 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.

7. 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 required 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.

8. 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.

9. 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 “Universal Terms” section under Title 17.68 of the Municipal Code for a more detailed definition for this and other terms.

10. 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 three (3) feet is allowed within the front yard area.  A six-foot fence may be constructed in the side and rear yard area.  Refer to Section 17.45.040 of the Municipal Code for more information.

11. 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 215-3030 for specific determination of fault zone limits.

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

Learn more...

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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 Calendar and map, or (Spanish) Calendar and map for questions call (510) 215-3070. 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) 215-3060 to request an application package.

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

Please call Public Works at (510) 215-3070 to report it. It is very is important 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) 215-3070 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 (510) 215-3060 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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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 8:00am - 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.

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1. Am I eligible for the San Pablo Scholarship?

To be eligible for the San Pablo Pilot, you must:

1. Be a resident of the City of San Pablo, within its incorporated boundaries. Click here if you're not sure. 
2. Have attended from an eligible school from a minimum of two (2) years between 9th-12th grade. 
3. Submit a San Pablo Scholarship Pilot application, with related documents, by the posted due dates. 

2. Is my high school eligible?

Students who have attended the following schools for a minimum of two (2) years of high school are currently eligible: 

West Contra Costa Unified School District	Charter Schools:	Private Schools:
Alvarado Adult School  De Anza High School El Cerrito High School Gateway to College Hercules High School Kennedy High School Middle College High School Pinole Valley High School Richmond High School Serra Adult School Sylvester Greenwood Academy  Vista High School	Aspire Richmond California College Preparatory Academy  Leadership Public School Making Waves Academy  John Henry High School Summit K-2	El Sobrante Christian School  Salesian High School

3. What is the Scholarship award amount?

The scholarship award amount is $ 1,000. 

4. Is the San Pablo Scholarship just for one year?

Currently, the San Pablo Scholarship is a one-year scholarship as the City is piloting this new program.  

5. When will I receive my San Pablo Scholarship?

The San Pablo Scholarship will be disbursed in July/August.

6. Does it expire if I take a gap year?

During this Pilot Program phase, the San Pablo Scholarship is only currently available for students who are planning to attend in the Fall semester right after their graduation from high school or have received their GED within the last 3 years.

7. Is the scholarship renewable?

Currently, the San Pablo Scholarship is just for one year as the City is piloting this new program. Renewals may be possible in the future depending on funding that is yet to be determined. 

8. What can my scholarship be used for? 

The San Pablo scholarship can be used to pay for expenses related to attending a 2-year or 4-year college / university or Career and Technical Education (CTE) Program. It includes but not limited to: tuition, school and program fees, books, required equipment, and supplies. 

9. Do I need to be enrolled as a full-time student in my college program?

Recipients of San Pablo’s Scholarship should be enrolled for at least a half time status in their respective programs. 

10. What is the cumulative GPA minimum requirement for applicants?

The cumulative GPA minimum requirement to apply is 2.0 

11. What do I need to complete the scholarship application?

All the necessary information and documents is listed on this Scholarship Application Checklist.

12. When will I know if I received the scholarship?

Selected Scholars will be contacted by end of July of each year. 

13. How will I receive my scholarship if awarded?

Selected San Pablo Scholars will work with City Staff to complete requirements including:  

• Attend a Scholar Orientation 
• Complete required documentation including but not limited to: Scholar Agreement & other financial paperwork 

14. What if I am undocumented and/or a recipient of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival?

Undocumented and/or recipients of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) are able to apply for this scholarship. 

15. How is the San Pablo Scholarship Pilot Program funded?

The scholarship is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA), with the aim of supporting San Pablo youth who were particularly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

For all other questions, please contact PaolaC@sanpabloca.gov