While there is no maximum number of pets you can have in your household, there are limitations as to the amount you can have without obtaining an animal permit. If you have three (3) or more animals of the same species (3 dogs, 3 cats, etc.), you will need to obtain an animal permit. In addition, if you have five (5) or more total domestic animals in your household, you also will need to obtain an animal permit. Obtaining an animal permit is also necessary if you have one (1) or more animals that are considered an exotic species or livestock, such as goats or pigs. For more information about animal permits, please call the Building Department at (650) 738-7344.

1800 Francisco Blvd.
Pacifica
CA 94044
Map

The Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA is located at 12 Airport Blvd. in San Mateo. Their phone number is 650-340-7022.

If you have a problem with a habitually barking dog in your neighborhood, call the Police Department non-emergency line at (650) 738-7314.

The city has a program to help habitually barking dog owners and their neighbors find workable solutions that are equitable to all parties involved.

In the meantime, begin documenting the occurrences (date/time/duration) of habitual barking to aid the process of resolving the barking situation. You can also tape record barking incidences as well, being sure to state date and start/stop times on the tape.

Please call the San Mateo County Department of Environmental Health at 650-363-4305.

Honey bee swarm / hive removal services are offered by the Beekeepers' Guild of San Mateo County. More information for these removal services can be found at SanMateoBeeGuild.org.

Contact your medical care provider. A report will be written and the SPCA will be notified.

The Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA is located at 12 Airport Blvd. in San Mateo. Their phone number is 650-340-7022.

12 Airport Blvd.
San Mateo
Phone: 650-340-7022
Map

The Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA is located at 12 Airport Blvd. in San Mateo. Their phone number is 650-340-7022.

12 Airport Blvd.
San Mateo
Phone: 650-340-7022
Map

The Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA adoption facility is located at 1450 Rollins Road in Burlingame. Their phone number is 650-340-7022.

1450 Rollins Road
Burlingame
Phone: 650-340-7022
Map

The Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA is located at 12 Airport Blvd. in San Mateo.  Their phone number is 650-340-7022.

12 Airport Blvd.
San Mateo
Phone: 650-340-7022
Map

The Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA is located at 12 Airport Blvd. in San Mateo. Their phone number is 650-340-7022.

The Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA is located at 12 Airport Blvd. in San Mateo. Their phone number is 650-340-7022.

12 Airport Blvd.
San Mateo
Phone: 650-340-7022
Map

Currently, all dogs must be on leash on all Pacifica beaches. The exception is Esplanade Beach, where dogs can be off-leash.

Please call the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Dept. at 650-738-7378 for more information.

The Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA is located at 12 Airport Blvd. in San Mateo. Their phone number is 650-340-7022.

12 Airport Blvd.
San Mateo
Phone: 650-340-7022
Map

Animal licenses can be obtained through the San Mateo County Health Department. Their web page includes an online form that can be electronically submitted, a paper form which can be mailed, and 3 locations within San Mateo County where you can apply for the license in person.

The Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA has two facilities. The newer adoption facility is located at 1450 Rollins Road in Burlingame while the older facility is located at 12 Airport Blvd. in San Mateo. The San Mateo location is for lost & found animals, surrendering of your pet, reporting of dead or abused animals, etc. A full list of services available at these locations can be found at the Peninsula Humane Society Services page. Their phone number is 650-340-7022.

12 Airport Blvd.
San Mateo
Phone: 650-340-7022
Map

Not at the moment, unfortunately. We hope to to able to in the future.

170 Santa Maria Avenue
Pacifica, CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7392
Fax: 650-738-7411
Map

For online payment options, visit the County of San Mateo website. Credit card payments are accepted by telephone, 650-363-4142, and on-line only.

170 Santa Maria Avenue
Pacifica
CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7392
Fax: 650-738-7411
Map

There is a contact number on bills that are sent out by the City. Calls regarding a particular bill should be directed to that specific number since that person is uniquely qualified to answer the question. For instance, a question regarding a child care bill could not be answered by Finance, but would need to be addressed by someone in child care.

170 Santa Maria Avenue
Pacifica
CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7392
Fax: 650-738-7411
Map

Property tax questions should be addressed to the County of San Mateo. The Assessor's office may be reached at 650-363-4500, and the Tax Collector's Office at 650-363-4142. The property tax bill lists phone numbers for all other charges on the bill, such as the Pacifica Storm Water Fee, Pacifica Sewer, etc.

170 Santa Maria Avenue
Pacifica
CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7392
Fax: 650-738-7411
Map

You can file an complaint, and our Code Enforcement Officer will investigate to see if the required permits have been obtained and are up-to-date.

Phone: 650-738-7343

You can not post on telephone poles, directional poles, or other City property.

Yes. You will need to obtain both a business license, as well as a Home Occupation Permit. These can be obtained from the finance department.

170 Santa Maria Avenue
Pacifica, CA 94044
Map

Legal ads are put in the Pacifica Tribune, our local newspaper. Contact info, including the department within the City that is handling the bids, should be within the ad.

Short Term Rental hosts (or operators) located within the City of Pacifica are required to obtain required permits and licensing prior to offering accommodations. For questions or more information, visit the Short Term Rental Program page or contact the City of Pacifica Finance Department.

The license tax is determined by the business classification, the minimum being $40.00 per year. This is pro rated to one half after May 1 each year since our Business License year ends on October 31 each year. If the business is operated out of the home a Home Occupation Permit is also required. This is a one-time fee of $105.00 and if the applicant is not the owner of the home a letter of permission is required from the landlord. Each year when the License is renewed the minimum license tax, which is shown on the renewal form, plus the tax for gross receipts over $25,000 is due. After November 30 each year there is a 10% per month late fee added to the license tax.

170 Santa Maria Avenue
Pacifica, CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7392
Fax: 650-738-7411
Map

If you are having a block party, you must contact the Police Department at 650-738-7314.  If you are planning a carnival or similar event, you must contact the Planning Department at 650-738-7341.

This would depend to an extent on the event. We do not require vendors at the Fog Fest, for example, to obtain a Business License. However, you should check with City Hall in advance of any event to ensure compliance with the Municipal Code.

170 Santa Maria Avenue
Pacifica, CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7392
Fax: 650-738-7411
Map

The sidewalk that is directly adjacent to the property is the responsibility of the property owner to maintain.

The City of Pacifica has no programs available for minority or women owned businesses. There may be opportunities through the State or Federal Governments and applicants should investigate what may be available through these sources.

170 Santa Maria Avenue
Pacifica, CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7392
Fax: 650-738-7411
Map

A Cape Seal is a two-step pavement preservation process that combines two surface treatments. Cape seals are a chip seal covered with a slurry seal. A chip seal is a liquid asphalt layer that is covered with ¼ to ½ crushed rock. This is then covered with a slurry seal (asphalt emulsion mixed with sand) and provides protection to older asphalt pavement surfaces.

If you find that a traffic or other street sign is broken, missing or illegible, report it to the Public Works Department at 650-738-3760. If a traffic light is malfunctioning, call the Police Department non-emergency line at (650) 738-7314 to report the problem.

No. The Community Center lot located behind the Center is for Community Center and Skatepark parking only.

540 Crespi Drive
Pacifica, CA 94044
Map

At this time, parking ticket payment cannot be made online.

Parking tickets may be paid by mailing payment to:

Office of Parking Violations
City of Pacifica
P.O. Box 9003
Redwood City, CA 94065-9003 

No. Pacifica State Beach is operated by the City of Pacifica, not the State of California. Revenue from the City’s parking program goes towards maintenance and operation of the beach.

There are marked 30-minute stalls where you may park for free. For these spots, you are required to get a parking receipt to display; however, you are not charged for it.

No, the cost is the same, however larger vehicles must park in the south parking lot where there are designated spaces for larger vehicles.

The Pacifica Police Department provides free inspections for violations relating to registration and defective vehicle equipment. Please bring the original citation and your vehicle to the police station at 2075 Coast Highway and come to the front service counter for assistance between 8:30am-5:00pm on weekdays and up until 7:30pm on Wednesdays.

San Mateo county agencies, including the Pacifica Police Department, are not able to sign off tickets for any proof of insurance violations. You must bring your proof of insurance and your citation to the Northern Branch Traffic Court at 1050 Mission Road in South San Francisco for sign-off.

Fines vary according to the violation. The fine amount should be indicated on the citation.

If you have further questions about your parking ticket, call the main police department business line at (650) 738-7314. Please have your parking citation information ready when you call.

No. Ticket fines can be mailed to:

Office of Parking Violations
City of Pacifica
P.O. Box 9003
Redwood City, California 94063-9003

- or -

Pay Online

If you wish to contest a parking ticket, you may send a letter explaining your case and the citation to the below address. Your citation will be returned to the police department for an administrative review. Once the process is complete, you will be notified in writing of the outcome.

Office of Parking Violations
City of Pacifica
P.O. Box 9003
Redwood City, CA 94065-9003

If you have received a traffic violation and you need additional information, call the Southern Branch Traffic Court at (650) 363-4300. If you are a juvenile with a traffic violation, call the Juvenile Traffic Court at (650) 312-8887.

An abandoned vehicle is one that has been left on a city street for more than 72 hours without moving more than 1/10 of a mile or is otherwise inoperable.

To report an abandoned vehicle, please call the Abandoned Vehicle line (650-829-3939) and be prepared to provide the following information:

• address where the vehicle is parked
• color of vehicle
• make/model of vehicle (if known)
• license plate number (if known)

Abandoned vehicles are then reported to the department. The officer will then mark the reported vehicle. After 72 hours has expired, the vehicle will be tagged with a warning notice, telling the owner to move the vehicle within 72 hours. Should the expiration fall on a weekend or holiday, the vehicle will be checked the next business day. If the vehicle is still not moved and the officer determines the vehicle is abandoned, it will then be towed and/or cited.

If the vehicle is moved and parked again, the process starts over.

If you have received a traffic violation and you need additional information, call the Southern Branch Traffic Court at (650) 363-4300. If you are a juvenile with a traffic violation, call the Juvenile Traffic Court at (650) 312-8887.

No. DP placards do not apply to metered off-street parking. You may park in the parking spaces with the International Symbol of Access (wheelchair symbol), or any of the other marked spaces; however, you will still need to purchase a daily permit or annual pass and display it in your window.

If you determine that your vehicle is missing (not parked in a different location than usual or borrowed by a friend or family member), call the Police Department non-emergency line at (650) 738-7314.

Be prepared with a detailed description of your vehicle (location last seen, possible date/timeframe of disappearance, possibly related suspicious activity, drivers license information, vehicle info: make, model, color, license, VIN, registration, distinguishing marks).

They will check to see if your vehicle has been towed (and provide you with information on how to get your vehicle back from the tow company). If it appears that your vehicle has been stolen, dispatch will enter your information into a missing vehicle database and will send an officer to you to begin investigation of the theft.

If your vehicle or other property has been vandalized, call the police department to make a report. Call the Police Department non-emergency line at (650) 738-7314 and be prepared to provide as much information as possible (location, approximate date/timeframe you believe the vandalism occurred, suspicious activity possibly related to the incident).

Reporting vandalism, however small, can help police investigators piece together related incidents and better help them to stop ongoing property damage.

It's also a good idea to take photos of your vandalized vehicle/property and the immediate surroundings to document the incident before disturbing the scene, cleaning up or making repairs.

According to Sec. 4-7.1403 of the Pacifica Municipal Code, "It shall be unlawful for any person to operate, or permit to be operated, any vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 14,000 pounds or more on Coast Lane from State Highway Route 1 to Fassler Avenue, on Fassler Avenue from Coast Lane to Crespi Drive, or upon Sharp Park Road from College Drive to Lundy Way. (§ 172, Ord. 125, as added by §§ 1 and 2, Ord. 231, as amended by § 4, Urgency Ord. 453-85, eff. September 23, 1985)"

And according to Sec. 4-7.1601 of the Pacifica Municipal Code, "In accordance with the provisions of Section 4-7.1402 of Article 14 of this chapter, the following streets, or portions thereof, are hereby declared to be truck traffic routes for the movement of vehicles with a maximum gross vehicle weight rating of 14,000 pounds or more:

1. Skyline Boulevard; and
2. State Highway Route 1
   (§ 193, Ord. 125, as amended by § I, Ord. 92-C.S., eff. December 12, 1973, as renumbered by § II, Ord. 359-C.S., eff. January 12, 1983, as amended by § 6, Urgency Ord. 453-85, eff. September 23, 1985)

According to Sec. 5-2.01 of the Pacifica Municipal Code, "the parking of a vehicle on a highway, including a street, road, or alley within the City, for a period exceeding seventy-two (72) hours can adversely impact the normal flow of traffic and lead to potential vandalism of the vehicle. Therefore, such parked vehicles are prohibited by this chapter, and their abatement is provided for." (§ 1, Ord. 428-C.S., eff. November 7, 1984)

And according to Sec. 5-1.01 of the Pacifica Municipal Code, "The accumulation and storage of abandoned, wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative vehicles, or parts thereof, on private or public property, including highways, is hereby found to create a condition tending to reduce the value of private property, to promote blight and deterioration, to invite plundering, to create fire hazards, to constitute an attractive nuisance creating a hazard to the health and safety of minors, to create a harborage for rodents and insects, and to be injurious to the health, safety, and general welfare. Therefore, the presence of an abandoned, wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative vehicle, or parts thereof, on private or public property, including highways, is hereby declared to constitute a public nuisance which may be abated as such in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. It is the intent of this chapter to afford all interested persons a hearing prior to the determination that such a nuisance exists and prior to taking action to abate such nuisance." (§ 1, Ord. 426-C.S., eff. November 7, 1984, as amended by § 2, Ord. 600-C.S., eff. January 25, 1993)

In addition, cars shall not park in marked areas reserved for emergency vehicles or otherwise designated as a no-parking zone.

Also, Sec. 9-4.2809 of the Pacifica Municipal Codes states regarding parking vehicles and construction equipment:

1. In any residential district it shall be unlawful to park, store, or cause to be maintained on any street, lot, plot, or parcel of land so zoned any commercial vehicle or special construction equipment, as defined in the Vehicle Code of the State, with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds or more.
2. No person shall park any motor vehicle, automobile, house car, bus camper shell, trailer coach, trailer, semitrailer, truck, truck tractor, tractor, motorcycle, or boat on a vacant lot or parcel, unless such use is authorized by a use permit, as set forth in Article 33 of this chapter, and such lot or parcel used for such purpose is surfaced and maintained in accordance with the requirements of such use permit. The Planning Administrator may permit the temporary use, not to exceed sixty (60) days, of any unimproved lot or parcel for the parking of vehicles in connection with a special event provided the site is posted to the specifications of the City at least seven (7) calendar days prior to Planning Administrator approval.
3. The temporary use of vacant lots or parcels for the parking of house cars or trailer coaches as construction offices, for the storage of equipment or materials, for twenty-four (24) hour security purposes, or as temporary commercial offices during the construction of permanent facilities may be permitted by the Planning Administrator provided the parking is in conjunction with construction on the same lot or building site and meets the following conditions:
   1. Building plans for new construction shall be submitted and a building permit issued before the placement or occupancy of the motor home or trailer coach.
   2. The occupancy shall not exceed twelve (12) months after the issuance of a building permit, unless otherwise extended by the Commission.
   3. The temporary use of house cars or trailer coaches during the construction of individual single-family dwellings may only be permitted as described in this subsection if the project is constructed by an owner/builder.
4. The Planning Administrator may permit the temporary use, not to exceed six (6) months, of any unimproved lot or parcel for the parking of construction vehicles and equipment in connection with off-site construction activity provided the site is posted to the specifications of the City at least seven (7) calendar days prior to Planning Administrator approval.
5. No person shall park, stand, or store any motor vehicle, automobile, house car, bus, camper, camper shell, trailer coach, trailer, semitrailer, truck, truck tractor, tractor, motorcycle, or boat upon private property in any commercial district, unless such vehicle is parked, stored, or standing in conjunction with a business located on the property and with the permission of the property owner.
6. No lot or parcel, or portion thereof, in a commercial district designated and surfaced for off-street parking shall be used for the parking or storage of motor vehicles, automobiles, house cars, buses, campers, camper shells, trailer coaches, trailers, semitrailers, trucks, truck tractors, tractors, motorcycles, or boats, unless such vehicles are parked or stored in conjunction with a business located on the property and with the permission of the property owner.
7. No person shall park a motor vehicle, automobile, house car, bus, camper, camper shell, trailer coach, trailer, semitrailer, truck, truck tractor, tractor, motorcycle, or boat upon private property in any commercial district for the principal purpose of displaying such vehicle for sale, unless the business located on the property is authorized for vehicle sales. (§ 2, Ord. 497-C.S., eff. February 10, 1988)

If you wish to contest a parking ticket, you may send your letter and the citation to:

The Office of Parking Violations
City of Pacifica
P.O. Box 9003
Redwood City, California 94063-9003.

Your citation will be returned to the department for an administrative review. Once the process is complete, you will be notified in writing of the outcome. The police department does not accept payment for citations.

Please contact the California State Department of Motorized Vehicles (DMV) for information regarding your vehicle's registration by visiting their website at www.dmv.ca.gov or visiting the closest location.

The closest DMV location to Pacifica is on 1500 Sullivan Street in Daly City (800-777-0133). Office hours are:

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday: 8:00am-5:00pm
Wednesday: 9:00am-5:00pm
Saturday: the third Saturday of each month from 8:00am-noon

Please contact the California State Department of Motorized Vehicles (DMV) for information on renewing your driver's license by visiting their website at www.dmv.ca.gov or visiting the closest location.

The closest DMV location to Pacifica is on 1500 Sullivan Street in Daly City (800-777-0133). Office hours are:

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday: 8:00am-5:00pm

Wednesday: 9:00am-5:00pm
Saturday: the third Saturday of each month from 8:00am-noon

1500 Sullivan Street
Daly City,CA
Phone: 800-777-0133

• Map
• Department of Motor Vehicles Website

The City’s 5-year street maintenance program identifies streets, through an objective software program algorithm and consultant review, that achieve the most effective use of limited City funding to keep the City’s overall pavement condition at the highest level possible. The City uses the Metropolitan Transportation Commission’s (MTC) pavement management program, StreetSaver, to develop the City’s 5-year street maintenance program. MTC requires Bay Area cities to have a pavement management program in place to manage their street network in order to be eligible for pavement grant funding. MTC developed the program in the late 1980’s after determining cities were not effectively using their pavement money to keep the overall pavement conditions as high as possible. This was because many cities used a costly “worst-first” approach to pavement management. This approach put the majority of pavement funding towards the worst pavements allowing many pavements in better condition to drop down into more expensive repair categories, instead of maintaining these streets with less expensive treatments earlier on to keep them in good condition. Pavement management systems are built on the premise of keeping good streets in good condition and preventing streets from dropping into more expensive repair categories, which allows a larger number of streets to be treated at a lower price. The October 12, 2020 pavement management Council report addresses a stopgap strategy to treat streets in the poorer condition categories.

MTC’s pavement grant funding is tied to the use of the StreetSaver software program because the program is objective and mathematical, using a scientifically developed algorithm that inputs the available pavement maintenance budget, existing pavement conditions and street classification (residential, collector, arterial) to develop the program. Once the program selects a list of streets, the City’s pavement consultant provides an engineering review on each street to verify the appropriate treatment is used. Additional elements of the review include review of streets dropping into more expensive repair categories, grouping streets for better contractor bid pricing and removal of streets with upcoming development and utility construction projects. The developed 5-year street maintenance program is the most cost effective way to use the available pavement maintenance funds to keep the City’s overall pavement condition at the highest level possible.

There are more streets that need repair in the City than there is available budget. With limited funding, the program is only able to select a limited number of streets. As more funding becomes available, the program would select a higher number of streets for treatment.

A “Stop Gap” treatment is a road maintenance treatment put on streets in the poor condition category to prevent these roads from falling into expensive reconstructions. The City’s 5-year Street Maintenance Program uses cape seals as a Stop Gap treatment on City streets to keep these poorer condition streets from further deterioration.

No, please use the Citizen Portal link to send us the location of the pothole. On the next scheduled pothole repair day, the Public Works street crew will fill the pothole with hot asphalt. This is not a permanent repair but can help minimize the potholes until such time that the road is rehabilitated.

Contact Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) for information - 1800-743-5000.

If you suspect a gas leak (smell in the air, hissing noise or visibly broken gas lines), immediately get out of the area (go outside if you are in a building) and call 911 (or 650-355-4151 if on a cell phone) to report the incident to the police who will dispatch someone to come to the site to inspect and fix the potential gas leak.

Do not attempt to fix the gas leak yourself. Do not do anything that could ignite the gas in the air (light a match, smoke a cigarette, turn on electrical appliances or do anything else that could create a spark). Use only flashlights.

If you discover bad tasting/looking water, please call the North Coast County Water District at (650) 355-3462 during normal business hours. If after normal business hours, contact Police Department non-emergency line at (650) 738-7314 to report the bad tasting/looking water.

In the meantime, exercise caution in using water you suspect is contaminated by drinking/cooking with bottled water or boiling tap water (and straining with cloth if sediment is visible).

For more information on drinking water in Pacifica, visit the website for the North Coast County Water District.

You can do this by calling the Marine Mammal Center at 415-289-7325.

Please call the Code Enforcement Office for information - 650-738-7344.

A heritage tree is any tree within the City of Pacifica, exclusive of eucalyptus, which has a trunk with a circumference of fifty (50) inches, approximately sixteen (16) inches in diameter, or more when measured two feet above the natural grade. Because of their value to the City of Pacifica, heritage trees may not be removed, destroyed or damaged beyond repair without a Heritage Tree Permit. The permit application fee is $222 and it is non-refundable. Payment of this fee does not guarantee approval of the permit. Factors set forth in Pacifica Municipal Code Title 4, Chapter 12 will be used to determine if the application should be approved or denied. Applications for Heritage Tree Permits can be obtained from the Planning and Building Department at 1800 Francisco Blvd. during normal business hours.

1800 Francisco Blvd.
Pacifica, CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7344
Map

Please call the Public Works Department at 650-738-3760 and ask to speak with our arborist.

Recology of the Coast has a schedule for recycling pick up for Pacifica businesses and residences. The schedule is defined by the street on which your property resides. For a complete schedule please see the Recology of the Coast web page.

Yes, the City of Pacifica adopted a Social Media Policy (Administrative Policy #75) on March 10, 2014.

Yes, the City of Pacifica's web site is a source of information for RSS feeds. To find out how to add our RSS content go to our RSS Feed Information page and follow the instructions.

The Pacifica Visitors Bureau maintains a calendar of community events. The Community Events Calendar can be found on the VisitPacifica.com web site.

Please call the Code Enforcement Office for information - 650-738-7344.

Please call the Code Enforcement Office for information - 650-738-7344.

Please call the Code Enforcement Office for information - 650-738-7344.

1800 Francisco Blvd.
Pacifica, CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7344
Map

Please call the Code Enforcement Office for information - 650-738-7344.

Please direct your questions and concerns to the San Francisco Airport's Aircraft Noise Abatement Office.

Please call the Building Department at 650-738-7344.

1800 Francisco Blvd.
Pacifica, CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7344
Map

Please call the Building Department at 650-738-7344. If it is after normal work hours, please call the Police Department at 650-738-7314. The allowed construction hours are Monday-Friday from 7:00 am until 7:00 pm, and on weekends, the hours are 9:00 am until 5:00 pm.

Please call the Code Enforcement Office for information - 650-738-7344.

Yes, you can contact the San Mateo County Environmental Health Division at 650-372-6200, or by visiting the San Mateo website.

170 Santa Maria Avenue
Pacifica, CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7392
Fax: 650-738-7411
Map

The Pacifica Police Station at 2075 Coast Highway has a receptacle in their lobby specifically for this use.

2075 Coast Highway
Pacifica, CA 94044
Map

The San Mateo County Division of Environmental Health is responsible for inspecting and rating restaurants in the City. They can be reached at 650-372-6200 or by visiting the San Mateo website.

170 Santa Maria Avenue
Pacifica, CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7392
Fax: 650-738-7411
Map

The Municipal Code is on the City website.

City Budget

170 Santa Maria Avenue
Pacifica, CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7392
Fax: 650-738-7411
Map

No fires are allowed on any beaches in Pacifica nor in all of San Mateo County.

We have exercise classes for adults. Please see our PLAY activity guide. Click here to go to our class registration website. We currently do not have any sports programs for adults.

Call the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Dept. at 650-738-7378.

Yosemite Drive and Oddstad Boulevard
Pacifica, CA 94044
Map

• Frontierland Park Rules

Take a look at our Play recreation activities guide.

Pacifica has many sports organizations. Please inquire directly with the organizations for information.

The Sanchez Dog Park, located behind the Sanchez Art Center at 1220 Linda Mar Blvd., is one location where your dog can run off-leash. Additional information can be found on the Sanchez Dog Park page.

We also allow dogs off-leash on Esplanade Beach, which is off of Esplanade Ave near the west end of Beaumont Blvd.

Esplanade Avenue and West Beaumont Boulevard
Pacifica, CA 94044
Map

To determine whether a fire inspection is needed for your business, please call North County Fire Authority at 991-8138 for clarification.

Yes, you do. Please call the Police Department at 650-738-7314.

Yes, you do. There are several types of permits that will be necessary to open this type of business in Pacifica. The best thing is to discuss your plans with one of our City Planners, and they can advise you on what will be necessary in your situation. Please call 650-738-7341 for the Planning Department.

1800 Francisco Blvd.
Pacifica, CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7341
Map

Contractors are regulated by the State of California. You can contact the State Licensing Board in Sacramento at 800-321-2752. If your business is located here in Pacifica you would also need to obtain a Business License and, if the business is located at your home, a Home Occupation Permit.

170 Santa Maria Avenue
Pacifica, CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7392
Fax: 650-738-7411
Map

Through the State Contractors Licensing Board, 800-321-2752.

170 Santa Maria Avenue
Pacifica, CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7392
Fax: 650-738-7411
Map

You need to check with the Planning Department first to make sure the address is zoned for the type of business you are going to operate. You would then need to obtain a Business License from the City. The necessary forms and general information can be downloaded from our web site, picked up at City Hall or mailed to you.

If you are doing business under a fictitious name you will need to file the fictitious name statement with the County Recorder's Office of the County of San Mateo, 650-363-4500.

If you are charging sales tax you will need to obtain a Seller's Permit from the State Board of Equalization, 800-400-7115.

170 Santa Maria Avenue
Pacifica, CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7392
Fax: 650-738-7411
Map

You will need to acquire a business license with the City of Pacifica in order to conduct business in Pacifica. A business license application can be acquired online, in person at the Finance Department of City Hall, or by mail.

If you live in Pacifica and you do not have a brick-and-mortar storefront you will need to obtain a Home Occupation Permit. Home based, Internet based and mobile businesses operated by Pacifica residents must apply for the Home Occupation Permit.

If you are doing business under a fictitious name you will need to file a fictitious name statement with the County of San Mateo, County Recorder's Office, 650-363-4713. If you are selling goods at retail you will also need a Seller's Permit from the State Board of Equalization, 800-400-7115.

170 Santa Maria Avenue
Pacifica, CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7392
Fax: 650-738-7411
Map

Please call the ABC Office (Alcoholic Beverage Control) at 415-356-6500.

Pacifica does not allow for the "transfer" of a business license. The new owner(s) of the business will need to file a new application with the Finance Department. New business license applications can be obtained online, mailed to you or picked up from the Finance Department within City Hall.

170 Santa Maria Avenue
Pacifica, CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7392
Fax: 650-738-7411
Map

Information about licensing can be obtained from the Finance Department, Business License Division, of the City of Pacifica. The Chamber of Commerce, 650-355-4122, pacificachamber.com may be of assistance, or the Small Business Administration, 800-827-5722, sba.gov. For zoning issues contact the Planning Department of the City at 650-738-7344.

170 Santa Maria Avenue
Pacifica, CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7392
Fax: 650-738-7411
Map

No. You may not place signs on telephone poles.

Yes, and several departments within the City will be involved with the process. To start the process, read through the Building Division page for Building review process and tree related items. You can submit your project plans into the online permit system by selecting Apply for a Building Permit/Revision online (or check current building permit applications)

You might. It depends on several factors, such as the type of sign and the specific location of your business. For example, if your sign is free-standing or electrical, it would be a different situation than simply having a wooden sign attached to the face of the building. The best thing to do is call the Community Development Department at 650-738-7341 and discuss your particular situation with one of our City Planners.

Community Development Department
1800 Francisco Blvd
Pacifica, CA 94044
650-738-7341

Please call the Community Development Department at 650-738-7341 to get started.

Community Development Department
1800 Francisco Blvd
Pacifica, CA 94044
650-738-7341

You must check with the Community Development Department to be sure the location is zoned for a restaurant.

Community Development Department
1800 Francisco Blvd
Pacifica, CA 94044
650-738-7341

 If there is already, or has been in the recent past, a restaurant in that location this should not be an issue. You would need to contact the San Mateo County Environmental Health Division, 650-372-6200, for clearance before opening. You would also need to obtain a Business License from the City, and the Fire Department would have to make an inspection.

If you are doing business under a fictitious name you will need to file a fictitious name statement with the County Recorder's Office of the County of San Mateo, 650-363-4500.

You will also need to obtain a Seller's Permit from the State Board of Equalization, 800-400-7115.

It depends on the work you are planning to do. The best idea is to call the Community Development Department at 650-738-7341 to find out how to get started.

Community Development Department
1800 Francisco Blvd
Pacifica, CA 94044
650-738-7341

Please call the ABC Office (Alcoholic Beverage Control) at 415-356-6500.

You can review the zoning code on our website. It is part of our Municipal Code.

If you still have questions, you can call the Community Development Department at 650-738-7341.

There is too much information pertaining to this subject. Please call the Building Department for information at 650-738-7344.

A Conditional Use Permit is a Planning permit for a particular use at a specific location. It is granted by the Planning Commission after a public hearing is conducted.

A Certificate of Occupancy is a form that is completed when a brand-new building has been completed. It certifies that the building is compliant with building codes and other laws. These can be obtained from the Community Development Department with appropriate notice.

Community Development Department
1800 Francisco Blvd
Pacifica, CA 94044
650-738-7341

As a Sanctuary City, Pacifica policies ensure that our police department does not engage in federal immigration enforcement, except when required by a federal judicial warrant or to assist in apprehending serious or violent offenders. The Pacifica Police Department prioritizes community safety and the rights of all residents, refraining from immigration enforcement unless specifically mandated by law. These practices align with Senate Bill 54 (California Values Act), which limits local law enforcement's involvement in federal immigration actions. For more information on the City’s Sanctuary City policy, please visit: City of Pacifica Sanctuary City Webpage

Due to COVID-19 our lobby is closed the public and we are unable to accept any prescription medication as this time.

We are able to accept unused prescription medication during normal business hours. We cannot accept non-prescription medication, syringes or inhalers.

The Pacifica Police Department does not regulate the use of drones or unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). The use of (UAS) is regulated by the FAA and they are currently prohibited in portions of the City of Pacifica.

For further information regarding the use of and areas allowed for UAS, please check with the FAA.

Several entities operate helicopters over and near the City of Pacifica. PG&E routinely conducts pipe inspections and the United States Coast Guard conducts training operations off the Pacific coastline.

For additional information any flight plans flied, contact the FAA.

The Pacifica Police Department does not receive copies or notification of any flight plans.

Any property, whether lost or found, can be claimed from or turned into the Pacifica Police Department.

Finders of lost property found in Pacifica should bring the found items to the main counter at the station where they can fill out a finders affidavit form.

Found property will be held for 90-days by the Department in accordance with the law. If found property is not claimed after that time, the finder will become the owner of the property and will be able to pick it up upon notification by the property clerk.

Persons who have lost property can call the Property Room (650-738-7334) with a description of the lost item and ask for the property clerk to determine if it has been turned in to the department. If the property has been recovered, the property clerk will set up an appointment with the owner for pick-up.

To report an emergency, dial 911.

The Pacifica Police Department is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year and can accept citizen crime reports at any time.

To report a crime in Pacifica, you can call the department on the non-emergency business line (650-738-7314) to have an officer sent to assist you and/or take a crime report. Alternatively, you can file certain crime reports online.

If you would like to file a crime report online, please see our Make A Police Report page for more information. Online reports can be filed at any time.

Crimes must be reported in the city in which they have occurred.

Most traffic collision reports are accessible online through a third-party, LexisNexis, for a nominal fee. LexisNexis allows you to instantly download and save a copy of a collision report.

To request a copy of other reports, or if your report is not listed on LexisNexis, visit the Request A Report page.

If your property has been booked as evidence, you may call the main business line between 8:00am and noon Monday through Friday and ask to speak with the property clerk, who can then advise you as to when your property will be released to you and how to go about picking it up.

Property will not be released without a prior appointment. Property held as evidence will be released after the court adjudication papers are sent to the property clerk. The clerk will inform the owners by mail or telephone and an appointment will be set up for release.

Property room hours of operation are 8:00am-noon, Monday through Friday (excluding holidays). Please call the main business line and ask to speak to the property clerk with any questions or to make an appointment.

Clearance letters are typically used for adoption, visa/passport or immigration purposes.

The applicant may come to the department with valid picture identification and complete an Application for Local Records Check form, available at the Records counter. A form must be completed by each person applying for a clearance letter. The charge for each letter is $20.00 (exact cash or check payable to "City of Pacifica"). These letters can be notarized at the request of the applicant. Please allow 2-5 days for processing a clearance letter.

The City of Pacifica requires all commercial businesses and residence who have an alarm to apply for a permit with the Pacifica Police Department.

The alarm permit application along with instructions are available online at the Alarm Permit Portal.

The City of Pacifica conducts monthly testing of its tsunami warning system on the first Wednesday of every month.

In the event there was an actual tsunami, you will receive additional information via the Emergency Alert System.

Please call the Code Enforcement Office for information.

Code Enforcement Office
650-738-7343
650-359-5807 (Fax)

The first step in the process is to come to the Pacifica Police Department to obtain a vehicle release. Once a vehicle release is obtained, the vehicle can be picked up from the tow company.

For hours of operation, including rules and regulations, please see the Pacifica Municipal Pier page with additional information.

If you have additional questions, please contact the Department of Public Works at 650-738-3760

Please call the San Mateo County Assessors Office at 650-363-4500.

Please call the San Mateo County Assessors Office at 650-363-4500.

The San Francisco Airport's Aircraft Noise Abatement Office has developed a web site at flyquietsfo.com where citizens can track airplane flight patterns, obtain information regarding runway closures and report aircraft noise in your neighborhood.

For our elementary school district, please call the Pacifica School District at 738-6600,  For our high school district, please call the Jefferson Union High School District at 550-7900.

For the most current bus stop locations please visit the SamTrans bus route map page. This map also provides you with the route numbers you will need to get to and from CalTrain and BART station locations.

Generally, rent stabilization ordinances prohibit landlords from instituting excessive rent increases but do allow:

• Annual rent increases at a certain percentage fixed by the City; and
• Other increases, approved by a hearing officer, when necessary to assure that a landlord is receiving a fair return on its investment.

Just cause for eviction prevents “no-fault” evictions and establishes provisions for relocation assistance in certain instances to be paid by the landlord.

On May 8, 2017, the City Council called a special election on Tuesday, November 7, 2017, and submitted to the voters a ballot measure containing a proposed rent stabilization and just cause for eviction ordinance entitled the “Pacifica Community Preservation, Rent Stabilization, and Renters’ Rights Act.” If adopted by the voters, the ballot measure would permanently establish rent stabilization and just cause for eviction in Pacifica.

No. The City Council repealed Ordinance No. 814, which was an Interim Ordinance imposing a temporary moratorium on certain residential rent increases and requiring just cause for eviction of tenants, on August 14, 2017. The Interim Ordinance would have been effective on May 24, 2017. However, prior to its effective date, the City Clerk received a referendum petition protesting adoption of the Interim Ordinance. Because the referendum petition contained a sufficient number of signatures, it prevented the Interim Ordinance from taking effect.

Rent Stabilization
The ballot measure to be considered by the voters in November 2017 contains exemptions from rent stabilization for certain types of housing units, which include but are not limited to:

• Single-family residences
• Accessory dwelling units (i.e. in-law units)
• Duplexes
• Condominiums
• Townhouses
• Multi-family apartment units constructed on or after February 1, 1995.

A state law known as the “Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act” similarly exempts certain housing units from local rent stabilization ordinances, including but not limited to:

• Units built on or after February 1, 1995; and
• Single-family residences, condominiums, and townhouses.

In summary, the ballot measure to be considered by the voters would apply only to apartments in buildings with three or more units built before February 1, 1995. The ballot measure’s exemption for single-family residences would remain in effect even if state law changes.

Just Cause for Eviction
The ballot measure to be considered by the voters in November 2017 contains Just Cause for Eviction regulations. In Pacifica, these regulations would apply only to those units subject to rent stabilization.

No. The rent stabilization ordinance contained in the ballot measure to be voted on in November 2017 specifically exempts single-family residences from rent stabilization. Moreover, the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act is a state law that exempts single-family residences from local rent stabilization ordinances. Thus, the City currently cannot adopt a rent stabilization ordinance that covers single-family residences and, even if state law changes, the ordinance under consideration would still exempt single-family residences.

No. Although the City could provide just cause for eviction protections to all tenants in Pacifica, the ordinance contained in the ballot measure to be voted on in November 2017 would apply just cause for eviction protections only to those units subject to rent stabilization, which does not include single-family residences.

The City Council has called a special election on November 7, 2017, and placed on the ballot a rent stabilization and just cause for eviction ballot measure entitled “Pacifica Community Preservation, Rent Stabilization, and Renters’ Rights Act.”

The ballot measure would establish a $6 per unit one-time registration fee to cover start-up costs and would initially establish a $19 per month fee to cover ongoing operational costs for each unit covered by the ordinance. Landlords would be allowed to pass the fees on to tenants. The fees are intended to pay for the costs of the program.

No. The Ordinance imposes a regulatory fee on the users of the rent stabilization program, and not on Pacifica citizens generally. In contrast, a tax is a charge imposed generally for revenue raising purposes. Here, the cost of implementing the Ordinance is financed through a per unit monthly fee on landlords which may be passed on to tenants. (Ordinance, Sec. 9-4.104(G).) Because the regulatory fee is imposed on the users of the program for the purposes of covering the program’s costs, and is not imposed on the public generally, the Ordinance does not impose a tax.

Staff has estimated potential costs for implementing the ordinance to be $697,300. General fund moneys will be used to advance initial startup costs until the City has collected the fees that finance the rent stabilization program. After the initial fees have been collected, any general fund revenue used to implement the program will be reimbursed to the general fund. (Ordinance, Sec. 9-9.104(G).) If the actual costs to finance the program exceed the fees established by the ordinance, the ordinance provides that the City Council may adjust the fees to assure that the costs of implementing the program are borne by the users of the program. (Ordinance, Sec. 9-9.104(G).)

Single-family dwellings are exempt from all requirements of the Ordinance and are not considered users of the program (Ordinance, Sec. 9-9.103) and accordingly will not be subject to any fee imposed under the Ordinance. A complete list of exemptions can be found in the Ordinance.

The City Council has the power to appoint the members of the Commission (Ordinance, Sec. 9-9.104(A).). The Commission is authorized to exercise the powers and duties set forth in the Ordinance and must report periodically to the City Council (Ordinance, Sec. 9-9.104(B).

No. Elections Code section 9217 provides that no Ordinance that is adopted by the voters may be repealed or amended except by a vote of the people. For this reason, the Council would not be able to unilaterally repeal or amend the provisions of the Ordinance.

No, the Ordinance provides that the maximum number of occupants per unit is governed by the rental housing agreement between the landlord and tenant, and is not to exceed the limits provided in Section 503(b) of the Uniform Housing Code as incorporated by Health & Safety Code Section 17922. (Ordinance, Sec. 9-9.105(A)(2)(a)(3)).

There are several ways to view City Council agendas and agenda packets with the latest information under consideration. You can:

• View posted agendas, not less than 72 hours prior to a meeting, at City Hall, 170 Santa Maria Avenue
• View posted agendas and agenda packets on the City’s Meeting Portal
• Request an email subscription and be notified when agendas and agenda packets are available by sending your request via email to the City Clerk's Office
• Request an agenda and/or agenda packet from the City Clerk’s Office at City Hall, 170 Santa Maria Avenue

You can also contact the Planning Department at (650) 738-7341 or by email to PlanningDivision@pacifica.gov with other questions on the ballot measure.

Update 9/7/2017: The City Council, at its regular meeting on August 14, repealed Ordinance No. 814 which was an Interim Ordinance imposing a temporary moratorium on certain residential rent increases and requiring just cause for eviction of tenants.

Update 6/27/2017: The City Council, at its regular meeting on June 26, accepted the San Mateo County Elections Department’s certification that the referendum petition protesting adoption of Ordinance No. 814 (the Interim Ordinance establishing just cause for evictions and a moratorium on certain residential rent increases) contains the required number of signatures to require either rescission of Ordinance No. 814 or placement on a future ballot. The Council also directed staff to prepare the necessary documents to repeal and rescind Ordinance No. 814. Staff is in the process of preparing these documents which will be considered at a future City Council meeting.

Update 6/26/2017: The San Mateo County Elections Department has confirmed the referendum petition protesting adoption of Ordinance No. 814 (the Interim Ordinance establishing rent stabilization and just cause for evictions) contains the required number of signatures to permanently suspend effectiveness of the ordinance. The petition contained at least 2,490 valid signatures, which exceeded the minimum of 2,427 signatures required.

The City Council will consider what steps to take next at its regular meeting this evening. Elections Code section 9241 provides the Council two options: 1) repeal the ordinance against which the petition was filed; or, 2) submit the ordinance to the voters, with certain requirements as to when the election may occur.

Update 5/19/2017: The City Clerk has received a referendum petition protesting adoption of the Interim Ordinance establishing a temporary moratorium on certain residential rent increases and requiring just cause for tenant evictions (Ordinance No. 814). Submission of the petition suspends the effective date of the Interim Ordinance.

The referendum petition must contain the signatures of at least 10% of the City’s registered voters. The City is working diligently with San Mateo County elections officials to ascertain whether or not the petition is signed by the requisite number of voters.

If the petition is found to be sufficient, the effective date of the Interim Ordinance will remain suspended and the City Council will be required to consider whether to repeal the Interim Ordinance or submit it to the voters for final adoption.

Update 5/9/2017: On May 8, 2017 the Pacifica City Council called for a Special Election on Tuesday, November 7, 2017, and Submitting to the Electors of the City of Pacifica a proposed Ordinance entitled Pacifica Community Preservation, Rent Stabilization, and Renters’ Rights Act. Please see the attached Resolution and full text of the ballot measure.

Update 5/4/2017: Staff Report for May 8, 2017 City Council Meeting (includes resolution); Proposed Ordinance for Pacifica Community Preservation, Rent Stabilization, and Renters' Rights Act; and a Proposed Interim Urgency Ordinance Establishing a Temporary Moratorium on Certain Residential Rent Increases and Requiring Just Cause for Tenant Evictions.

Update 4/26/2017: Press Release - City Council Adopts Temporary Moratorium on Rent Increases and Requires Just Cause for Tenant Evictions. Click here for full text of the Interim Ordinance Establishing Moratorium on Rent Increases and Just Cause for Evictions.

Update 4/19/2017: The Pacifica Tribune edition of April 19, 2017, led with the headline “City Enacts Rent Control.” Elsewhere, the article stated the City Council had placed consideration of a rent stabilization ordinance on the November ballot. Both the headline and the statement regarding an election are erroneous. As the information below explains, the City had neither – as of publication of the newspaper – adopted a rent stabilization ordinance nor called an election. These matters continue to be under consideration by the City Council.

The Rockaway Quarry is a nonoperational Quarry located west of the intersection of State Route 1 and Reina del Mar Avenue in the City of Pacifica. The total site area is approximately 86 acres consisting of two privately-owned parcels, the Quarry Parcel and the Eastern Parcel. Both parcels together are known as the “Rockaway Quarry” or just the “Quarry.” The Quarry operated since at least the mid-1700s until its closure in 1987.

The Rockaway Quarry Reclamation Plan is a comprehensive effort to reclaim the nonoperational quarry (“Quarry Parcel” in the above map) located in the Rockaway Beach neighborhood of the City of Pacifica. The definition of “reclamation” is provided in Question #3, below.

Since the Quarry closed in 1987, it has not been fully reclaimed in accordance with City of Pacifica and State of California requirements. The current property owner, Preserve @ Pacifica LLC, has committed to reclaiming the Quarry in accordance with all applicable standards. Reclamation of the Quarry requires approval of a Quarry Use Permit by the City of Pacifica in accordance with Section 9-2.04 of the Pacifica Municipal Code, in addition to other City and state/federal agency approvals as outlined in the Draft Environmental Impact Report.

The Reclamation Plan, as currently proposed by the applicant includes grading and drainage improvements to render the site safe for future reuse in accordance with City of Pacifica land use regulations, and to restore a more natural, pre-mining appearance to the site’s topography. The Quarry Reclamation Plan will also include invasive species removal, revegetation with native species, wetland mitigation, and trail improvements to allow for safe public access throughout the site. The grading work will involve importing approximately 874,000 cubic yards of soil for restoration of the excavated quarry face and other areas to pre-mining condition.

The Owner and Applicant have recently proposed a Reduced Fill Alternative that would further reduce the imported fill requirement for reclamation to approximately 583,000 cubic yards.

The detailed Quarry Reclamation Plan and Reduced Fill Alternative are available for public viewing. The City has also prepared a Draft Environmental Impact Report and Final Environmental Impact Report which contains an analysis of potential environmental impacts from the project. The Environmental Impact Report also included discussion of a Reduced Fill Alternative.

Reclamation of the Quarry is required by the City of Pacifica Municipal Code, in particular Chapter 2 “Surface Mining and Reclamation” of Title 9, and by State law, in particular the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975 (SMARA, Public Resources Code, Sections 2710-2796).

A reclamation plan is a document which outlines activities which must be taken in accordance with state and local law following the completion of mining activities as a surface mine. The required contents of a reclamation plan pursuant to state law are found in sections 2772, 2772.1, 2773, 2773.1, 2773.3, and 2773.4 of the Public Resources Code, and in Article 1 (commencing with Section 3500), Article 9 (commencing with Section 3700), and Article 11 (commencing with Section 3800) of Subchapter 1 of Chapter 8 of Division 2 of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations. Additional requirements pursuant to local law are found in Chapter 2 of Title 9 of the Pacifica Municipal Code.

Section 2733 of the Public Resources Code defines “reclamation” as “the combined process of land treatment that minimizes water degradation, air pollution, damage to aquatic or wildlife habitat, flooding, erosion, and other adverse effects from surface mining operations, including adverse surface effects incidental to underground mines, so that mined lands are reclaimed to a usable condition that is readily adaptable for alternate land uses and create no danger to public health or safety. The process may extend to affected lands surrounding mined lands, and may require backfilling, grading, resoiling, revegetation, soil compaction, slope stabilization, or other measures.”

The Quarry Reclamation Plan does not include the development of any buildings or change in use of the Quarry site. Furthermore, the City of Pacifica has not received any application for development of the Quarry site (a prior application for development received in 2016 was withdrawn in 2018). Any future development on the Quarry site will require an application to the City of Pacifica and a public review process. The end result of the Quarry Reclamation Plan is a safe site that is suitable for reuse in accordance with City of Pacifica land use regulations.

The Rockaway Quarry is private property owned by Preserve @ Pacifica LLC. The City of Pacifica owns a parcel of land dividing the Quarry site which contains the Calera Creek Multi-Purpose Trail.

The applicant for the Quarry Reclamation Plan is Baylands Soil Pacifica, LLC. The Quarry property owner, Preserve @ Pacifica LLC, has authorized Baylands Soil Pacifica, LLC, to undertake the Quarry reclamation.

The application for the Quarry Reclamation Plan (File No. 2016-001) is complete. A Planning Commission public hearing for the Quarry Reclamation Plan took place on March 18, 2024, and the Planning Commission conducted a Study Session on the project on May 20, 2024. A continued public hearing will be held by the Planning Commission to consider the plan, including a reduced fill alternative proposed by the owner and applicant, on Monday August 19, 2024. Planning Commission agendas are available on the City's Meeting Portal. 

The City of Pacifica has prepared a draft environmental impact report (DEIR) to evaluate potential environmental impacts from the Quarry Reclamation Plan. The DEIR was available for a 45-day public review and comment period from February 16, 2022, through 5 PM on April 4, 2022. Subsequently, the City has prepared a Final Environmental Impact Report (FEIR) incorporating public comments received on the DEIR. Certification of the FEIR is subject to approval by the Planning Commission.

Please visit the City’s Environmental Documents page for all documents related to the CEQA process being undertaken by the City.

The work described in the Quarry Reclamation Plan is estimated to take approximately four years to complete from the date of approval of all required permits.

The City-owned Calera Creek Multi-purpose Trail will generally remain open throughout performance of reclamation activities. Periodic closures may be necessary to move equipment within the Quarry owner’s easement across the City-owned trail which connects the two parcels of the Quarry site.

Yes. The Rockaway Quarry Site is located within an Area of Deferred Certification within the City of Pacifica’s Local Coastal Program. Thus, the California Coastal Commission (CCC) must approve the Coastal Development Permit (CDP) required to authorize reclamation work on the Quarry site. Inquiries regarding the status of CDP review should be directed to the CCC’s North Central Coast District Office at (415) 904-5200.

You can review the Quarry Reclamation Plan materials online and submit your questions or comments to PlanningDivision@pacifica.gov.

You may also request to be added to the notification list for public meetings on the Quarry Reclamation Plan by contacting PlanningDivision@pacifica.gov.

Tule is a type of plant useful for many things. The Ohlone wove the tule into mats to cover their homes, and also used tules to make rain capes, stuff duck decoys, and make many other useful items. You can still see tules in Pacifica at the water's edge in the natural lake at Sharp Park Golf Course.

The house if made of sun-dried adobe bricks. The bricks are made of clay and straw. The walls are three feet thick downstairs and two feet thick upstairs.

The Ohlone knew how to locate and prepare all kinds of foods. Here's a list:

• mushrooms, hazelnuts, luaren nuts, pine nuts, cherries, buckeyes, clover, poppy, mustard, miner's lettuce, cow parsnip shoots, columbine, milkweed, larkspur, cattail roots, mariposa lily bulbs
• strawberries, wild grapes, currants, gooseberries, huckleberries, manzanita berries
• birds, quail, geese, ducks, seabirds and eggs
• rabbits - Rabbits were especially useful because they could use the skins for clothing. You needed 200 rabbit skins to make one blanket.
• raccoons, fox, deer, elk, antelope
• shellfish - mussels, clams, oysters, olivellas, crabs, barnacles, abalones smelt, salmon, whales
• insects - lice, grasshoppers, yellowjacket grubs lizards, snakes, moles, mice, gophers, ground squirrels, wood rats
• taboo foods: eagles, buzzards, ravens, owls and frogs

The Ohlone people were seasonal migratory hunter-gatherers who came to Pruristac during mussel season and during the salmon run on San Pedro Creek. They made their homes of willow poles covered with tule mats. Visited Pruristac during mussel season and during the salmon run on San Pedro Creek.

The roof needs an overhang to keep the rain from turning the building into one big mud pie.

The Pacifica Police Department has a general policy of not participating with federal agents for the sole purpose of enforcing federal immigration law. However, the Pacifica Police Department may cooperate with federal authorities when a person has been convicted of a serious or violent felony. This means that Pacifica Police Officers will never directly assist immigration raids, conduct immigration check points, and will not attempt to determine your immigration status if you ask them for help or report a crime.

Yes, we want all our residents to take full advantage of City services, regardless of immigration status. The City does not ask for immigration status on any application, questionnaire, or interview form other than those required by federal or state law, regulation, or court decision. This means that the City will never ask for your immigration status when you are accessing city services, or submitting a complaint or concern to the City.

No, City employees, including law enforcement, are not trained to determine immigration status and do not have access to databases that will state this information.

No, the City will not condition the receipt of benefits on a person's immigration status unless otherwise required by law.

No, the Ordinance does not prevent the Pacifica Police Department's ability to respond to a public safety threat. Section 4-16.03(D) of the Ordinance states that "Nothing in this Ordinance shall be construed to prevent local law enforcement from providing assistance to secure a scene or act in cases of emergency when federal immigration officials are present, for the purpose of ensuring community safety."

The City of Pacifica currently experiences coastal erosion, flooding and severe storms along its six-mile shoreline that, over the years, have damaged public and private property. The City is preparing a sea level rise Adaptation Plan that will identify potential vulnerabilities to sea level rise, coastal erosion, flooding and severe storms and the options available to help prepare for future climate change impacts.

The goals and benefits of this project include:

1. Bolster efficacy of public safety efforts. Evacuations of bluff top homes have been necessary to protect the health, safety, and wellness of residents. The Adaptation Plan will provide the City with a unified strategy to protect human life, property, and critical infrastructure.
2. Respond to climate change. The Adaptation Plan will allow Pacifica to prepare for sea level rise and climate change impacts by identifying policies that enhance the coastal zone’s adaptive capacity.
3. Preserve Housing and enhance environmental justice. The housing stock in Pacifica’s coastal zone is some of the oldest in the entire city and makes up a large portion of the city’s “naturally” affordable housing stock. The Adaptation Plan will allow the city to assess the safety and accessibility of housing within the coastal zone, and create policies that will protect this important housing resource from the impacts of sea level rise, erosion, and coastal flooding.
4. Promote local economic vitality. A significant amount of Pacifica’s retail sales and transient occupancy tax is collected from businesses that are located within the coastal zone. The taxes collected from these areas support services provided to all areas of the City. Sharp Park, Rockaway Beach, and West Linda Mar are all commercial centers that will directly benefit from increased awareness of issues like sea level rise and identification of strategies that reduce their collective vulnerability.
5. Preserve and enhance coastal access. Beach and bluff access to the coastline is a crucial element of Pacifica’s coastal character and is valued by the community. The Adaptation Plan will allow the city to identify where bluff erosion, sedimentation, and sea level rise may threaten coastal access.

A Local Coastal Plan (LCP) provides policies that guide development within the Coastal Zone. A LCP is comprised of land use policies and an implementation plan.

Under the State Coastal Act, the Coastal Commission has decision making and permit authority in the Coastal Zone. The Coastal Act provides for the adoption of LCPs by cities and counties in conformance with the Coastal Act, and once adopted and approved by the Coastal Commission, transfers permitting authority to the City. This is important in retaining local control over decisions that impact the community and acknowledges the unique characteristic of local communities and regional interests within the framework of the Coastal Act.

The Coastal Commission retains permanent coastal permit jurisdiction over tidelands, submerged lands, and public trust lands, and the Commission also acts on appeals from certain local government coastal permit decisions.

Yes, in 1980 the City of Pacifica adopted its current Local Coastal Plan land use policies and it has not been comprehensively updated since that time.

An update to the Pacifica LCP has been drafted, but it has not been adopted by the City or certified by the Coastal Commission. Further, the 2014 Draft LCP Update does not consider impacts from sea level rise or provide comprehensive adaptation policies.

The City is conducting this sea level rise planning effort in order to prepare for future coastal erosion, flooding, and severe storms. In addition, incorporating the Adaptation Plan into the Draft LCP Update will bring the document into conformance with Coastal Commission policy directives for LCP adoption.

In Pacifica, the Coastal Zone Boundary generally includes all land that is west of Highway 1, with limited exceptions.

The California Coastal Commission will need to approve the Local Coastal Plan Update and will determine if it is consistent with the Coastal Act. There are a variety of ways the City can comply with provisions of the Coastal Act. The City Council will determine the most appropriate policies for Pacifica, then the LCP Update will be forwarded to the Coastal Commission for approval.

The Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan will become part of the City's Draft Local Coastal Plan and will contain policies that will help the City assist property owners (public and private) in planning for and addressing future sea level rise, storm surge, coastal flooding, and erosion. At the current stage of the process, it is too early to know the exact policy outcomes. It is therefore important to become involved and provide your input.

It is not known if or how third parties will use the City’s Local Coastal Plan and Adaptation Plan. However, it is important to note that the City is not creating new hazard data. The study is relying on existing hazard data produced by agencies such as such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and State of California Ocean Protection Council. The hazard data used in the City’s study is already readily available to the public and financial institutions and insurers.

The permitting process is expected to remain the same or very similar to how it works today. Properties in the hazard areas are already asked to consider Coastal Commission guidance when contemplating development. After the Adaptation Plan is adopted, property owners will benefit from acceptable strategies as defined in the Plan which will provide consistency and assurance.

The City has identified Preserving Housing and Promoting Economic Vitality as two of several goals and benefits of this process. The City of also aware of legal considerations when contemplating any type of policy affecting private property. The Adaptation Plan will identify options available to help public and private property owners prepare for future climate change impacts.

No, ESA does not have a predetermined opinion concerning various solutions for sea level rise. And, the City Council has the final say on what solutions go into the Local Coastal Plan Update/Adaptation Plan.

More information on sea level rise planning and the Local Coastal Plan can be found at the City’s Sea Level Rise project webpage.

The City received a $188,000 Local Assistance Grant from the Coastal Commission and Coastal Conservancy. The City is also contributing in-kind staff resources.

Public involvement is a very important part of the process! The City will host several public meetings and workshops throughout the Sea Level Rise Planning effort. Please request to join our mailing list to receive updates on the status of the project and public outreach events. More information can be found on the Sea Level Rise page.

The first public workshop is scheduled for February 13th at 6pm in the Council Chambers, 2212 Beach Blvd.

The County of San Mateo has prepared a very helpful FAQ that covers these topics.

The Utility Users Tax is added to the PG&E bill each month. It is 6.5% of the charge for gas and electricity. Seniors over the age of 62 can apply to be exempt from the tax. They should complete the Request for Exemption form which can be found on-line or obtained from City Hall, and return it with a copy of their PG&E bill, showing the name, address and account number, and a copy of proof of birth, such as Driver's License. The name on the PG&E bill and the proof of birth must be the same.

170 Santa Maria Avenue
Pacifica, CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7392
Fax: 650-738-7411
Map

It is located at 540 Crespi Dr. in Pacifica. For more information, call 650-738-7384.

540 Crespi Drive
Pacifica,CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7384
Map

The City of Pacifica does not allow rainwater runoff into the Sanitary Sewer System because of the added cost of treating this water with sewage. The City has a separate drainage system specifically for runoff.

Yes, you are required to do so, but please contact the sewer department before you do so (650)738-4660. You cannot drain your pool into the street or storm drains.

If the elevation of the shower drain, bathtub drain or toilet, for instance, is lower than the elevation of the next upstream manhole cover of the public sewer, then you need a sewer blackflow prevention device. A backflow prevention device can be installed on your sewer lateral to reduce the likelihood of sewage entering your home or business through low lying plumbing fixtures when there's a blockage in the lateral or public main.

All homes located on hills are subject to flooding if the sewer line in the street plugs below the house and above the down stream manhole. Due to the hilly terrain in Pacifica, we have many homes in this condition. Generally the homes at the bottom of the hills are the most vulnerable because the plugs are most likely to occur in the area where the sewer main levels out. We recommend removing your building clean-out cap (not the concrete cover of clean-out box) for emergency overflow purpose.

Call Dispatch as soon as possible, at 650-738-7314 to report the sewer spill.

You may contact an Inspector by calling the City of Pacifica’s Wastewater Division (Mon-Fri) at (650) 738-7472. You must call at least 24 hours in advance of back-filling the pipe.

You may repair your building sewer on an emergency basis without a permit. You must purchase a permit the following Monday and leave the new sewer lateral uncovered until a City Inspector inspects the job.

The City of Pacifica’s Sewer Maintenance Ordinance Section 6-13.602 states it shall be the responsibility of the property owner to perform all required maintenance, repairs and replacement of the sewer lateral in accordance with the following requirements:

1. The sewer lateral shall be kept free from roots, grease deposits, and other solids, which may impede or obstruct the flow.
2. All joints shall be watertight and all pipes shall be sound.
3. The sewer lateral pipe shall be free of any structural defects such as fractures, cracks, breaks, openings, or missing portions.
4. All cleanouts shall be securely sealed with a proper cap or approved overflow device at all times.
5. There shall be no non-sanitary sewer connections to the sewer lateral or to any plumbing that connects to the sewer lateral.
6. All maintenance, repair or replacement shall conform to current City standards and specifications.

Building sewer shall mean the extension from the building drain to the public sewer or other place of disposal. (Ordinance section 6-10.104.)

1. Roots from trees may follow the moisture in the ground and find their way into cracked or leaking joints in the pipe.
2. Joints may fail over time and cause the inside of the pipe to lose flow area. Debris such as rocks or paper towels may cause a blockage.
3. Grease from cooking oils or soaps may settle in poorly sloped sewer laterals or behind failed joints.
4. There may be a deterioration of the pipe integrity due to age or poor backfill materials used during construction.

The location of the stoppage should be located and a plumber called if one is needed. If the stoppage is identified as being the City’s responsibility, then you may call the City of Pacifica’s Public Works Dept. during normal hours at (650) 738-3760. During off hours and the weekend, please call the Pacifica Police dispatch non-emergency number at (650) 738-7314. If sewage is still flowing out of your clean-out when you are not using any water, the main sewer may actually be backing up and not your building sewer . In this case, call the City immediately and we will unplug the sewer.

You may dig up to repair your building sewer by traditional methods such as by hand or with a backhoe. You may also use trenchless pipe repair. In this method, 4” polyethylene pipe is pulled through the old pipe leaving a brand new building sewer within the old building sewer. Trenchless pipe repair costs less than traditional methods if your building sewer is deep in the ground. It is helpful as well when you do not wish to disturb your yard or driveway.

A minimum diameter of 4” is required in your new building sewer. Types of sewer pipe allowed are:

1. PVC SDR 35
2. ABS schedule 40
3. Polyethylene (PE) SDR 17

When using ABS pipe it may only be used inside the property line and not beyond.

You may find plumbing contractors in the Yellow Pages of the phone directory or the City of Pacifica Business Directory. City recommends that you obtain quotations from more than one contractor.

You may find plumbing contractors in the Yellow Pages of the phone directory or the City of Pacifica Business Directory. The City recommends that you obtain quotations from more than one contractor.

A Building permit will be needed to repair or replace your building sewer. If you will be repairing or replacing your building sewer to the main sewer and work will be performed in a public right-of-way, such as a street or sidewalk, an Encroachment permit will also be required. A drawing of the work to be performed is required upon purchasing your permit. However, if you plan to remove and replace the building sewer in the existing location a drawing is not required.

The City of Pacifica’s Sewer Maintenance Ordinance Section 6-9.02 states the homeowner is responsible for maintenance and repair of the sewer lateral from the structure to the City's main sewer.

A homeowner is required to televise and/or repair their building sewer when any of the following occur, requiring a Sewer Lateral Compliance Certificate.

• Transfer of property ownership
• When there is a remodel or addition that costs $50,000 or greater
• When adding any plumbing fixtures
• When a change in water service is requested (change of meter size or adding a second meter)

The video inspection is the opportunity to bring the building sewer up to code and receive a Sewer Lateral Compliance Certificate. An comparable example of this would be when you wish to repair your windows and for the repair to be up to code you must install double-pane windows for energy conservation.

A slurry seal is composed of asphaltic emulsion (oil and water) and aggregates applied on top of the existing pavement surface at an average thickness of 1/8 to 1/4 inch. The slurry mixture seals the pavement from water intrusion, which is the leading cause of deterioration of a street. By regularly sealing the street, the City can extend the life of the streets in better condition, to prevent these streets from dropping into more expensive repair categories. The most cost-effective pavement maintenance programs use slurry seals to keep good pavements in good condition.

Once applied, the slurry seal composition takes about four to six hours to cure in warm weather.

The Pacifica Resource Center might be able to help. They are a human services agency that assists families/persons in need with a variety of services to include emergency food, shelter, rent assistance, summer jobs for youth, information and referrals, and holiday programs. All services are free and conducted with confidentiality. Please call 650-738-7470.

The Pacifica Resource Center might be able to help. They are a human services agency that assists families/persons in need with a variety of services to include emergency food, shelter, rent assistance, summer jobs for youth, information and referrals, and holiday programs. All services are free and conducted with confidentiality. Please call 650-738-7470.

The Pacifica Resource Center might be able to help. They are a human services agency that assists families/persons in need with a variety of services to include emergency food, shelter, rent assistance, summer jobs for youth, information and referrals, and holiday programs. All services are free and conducted with confidentiality. Please call 650-738-7470.

You can contact the Pacifica Community Center, and ask to speak with someone from Meals on Wheels. The Community Center phone number is 738-7378.

Please call Peggy Ussery at 650-738-7388 or Shirley Rose at 650-738-7387 for more information.

• Child Care Services web page

Title:  City Does Not Have Authority to Intervene in the Pacifica School District Decision About School Consolidations

The City of Pacifica does not have authority to intervene in the Pacifica School District’s decision about school consolidations.  School districts are separate state agencies and are therefore not subject to local City regulations, unless the California Constitution or Legislature specifically consents to such regulation. (See Article IX, Section 5 (schools) and Article XI, Section 7 (cities) of the California Constitution; see also Hall v City of Taft (1956) 47 C2d 177, 183 (school property immune from local plan check and building permit requirements), superseded by statute as set forth in San Jose Unified Sch. Dist. v Santa Clara County Office of Educ. (2017) 7 CA5th 967).   In this case, the Pacifica School District Board’s decision to co-locate schools is a decision that is solely within the authority of the School Board and the City has no authority to regulate or direct the School Board. (Education Code section 41329).   The City also does not have any authority over the School Board’s determination that the co-location of schools is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act.  That is a decision made solely by the School Board as the lead agency under CEQA as part of its approval of the co-location. (14 Cal Code Regs §15051(a)[project carried out by public agency is the lead agency even if that project is located within another agency’s jurisdiction]). While the co-location of Ocean Shore School with Sunset Ridge certainly impacts families and neighborhoods in Pacifica, the City Council does not have any ability to regulate or override the decisions of the School Board. 

Application forms can be downloaded from our web site or picked up at City Hall. They must be returned with a copy of the PG&E bill, showing name, address and account number, and a copy of proof of birth, such as Driver's License. We will then advise PG&E to remove the Utility Users Tax from the bill, resulting in a savings of 6.5% of the bill.

170 Santa Maria Avenue
Pacifica, CA 94044
Phone: 650-738-7392
Fax: 650-738-7411
Map

On-street parking will be available within adjacent streets outside of the project limits. Pay close attention to parking notices and park off affected streets during construction. All cars in the “No Parking” zone during construction time will be towed.

Once the street is coated, it will be closed for approximately 4 to 6 hours. The street should be reopened by the end of the working day.

Yes. The contractor will coordinate with and accommodate trash, recycling and green waste pick-up.

Yes, the contractor will work with USPS or other delivery services.

Construction will not occur during the weekends or holidays.

Avoid producing water runoff into the streets the day before or after construction, because this may delay work. Also, keep children and pets away from construction areas.

Construction phases may take place at different times, extending work on your street across several days. We appreciate your cooperation and support and encourage you to call the Engineering Division at (650) 738-3767 if you have questions or concerns.

Due to the nature of a slurry seal treatment, there is an anticipated loss of asphalt material. On average, 10 percent of pavement material is lost over the first 30 days. This fluctuates depending on traffic. The contractor will be scheduling periodic street sweepings on the affected roadways during the first 30 days after the treatment has been applied to reduce loose sand.

Cape seals require a chip seal before placement of the slurry seal. The chip seal is small rock imbedded in a sticky liquid asphalt coating. Before placement of the final slurry seal (which is part of the cape seal), some of these small rocks may become loose. The contractor will schedule street sweeping to address this loose rock on the road. Once the slurry seal is placed, the rock will be covered and will no longer become loose.

A slurry seal and cape seal are different from an asphalt overlay. They provide a cost-effective method to seal the surface of the pavement, protecting the pavement and adding years of life to the pavement. However, because they simply coat the surface and do not add significant thickness, existing asphalt surfaces will not feel smoother following these treatments.