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Building Division

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1. Can I get an appointment time for my inspection?

The Building Division can only give morning or afternoon windows for inspections at this time. Inspections may take more or less time than the inspectors might estimate. Please contact the inspector 7:30 am the day of inspection request for confirmation.

2. Do I need a permit? What is exempt?

Work Exempt from Building, Electrical, Mechanical, and Plumbing Permits

Below is a list of items that are exempt from permits according to the California Building, Electrical, Mechanical and Plumbing Codes. For all projects except those listed below, a permit is likely required. Please contact the Building Division at 510 596-4310 or at bldgoff@emeryville.org if you have a question about your specific project.

Building (2010 California Building Code Section 105.2 Work Exempt from Permits)

1. One story detached accessory buildings used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet. Planning Division approval required for location. Please contact the Planning Division at planning@ci.emeryville.ca.us or 510 596-4362.

2. Fences not over 6 feet high. Please contact Planning Division for location approval.

3. Oil derricks

4. Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge or impounding Class I, II, or IIIA liquids. Please contact Planning Division for location approval.

5. Water tanks supported directly upon grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons and the ration of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2:1.

6. Sidewalks, decks and driveways not more than 30 inches above adjacent grade, are not attached, not over any basement or story below and are not part of an accessible route.

7. Painting, papering, carpeting, cabinets and similar finish work.

8. Temporary motion picture, television, and theatre stage sets and scenery.

9. Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to Group R-3 occupancy that are less than 24 inches deep, do not exceed 5,000 gallons and are install entirely above ground.

10. Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes (Fire Department approval required), not including service systems.

11. Swings and other playground equipment accessory to detached one- and two-family dwellings.

12. Window awnings supported by an exterior wall that do not project more than 54 inches from the exterior wall and do not require additional support of Group R-3, and Group U Occupancies. Commercial properties, please contact Planning Division for location approval.

13. Non-fixed and movable fixtures, cases, racks, counter and partitions, not over 5 feet 9 inches in height.

Unless otherwise exempted, separate plumbing, electrical and mechanical permits will be required for the above exempted items.

Electrical (2010 California Electrical Code Article 80.19 C Issuance of Permits) No permit shall be required to execute any of the classes of electrical work specified in the following:

1. Installation or replacement of equipment such as lamps and of electric utilization equipment approved for connection to suitable permanently installed receptacles. Replacement of flush or snap switches, fuses, lamp sockets, and receptacles, and other minor maintenance and repair work, such as replacing worn cords and tightening connections on a wiring device.

2. The process of manufacturing, testing, servicing, or repairing electric equipment or apparatus.

Mechanical (2010 California Mechanical Code 112.2 Exempt Work) A mechanical permit shall not be required for the following work.

1. Portable heating appliance, portable ventilating equipment, portable cooling unit or portable evaporative cooler.

2. A closed system of steam, hot or chilled water piping within heating or cooling equipment regulated by this code.

3. Replacement of any component part or assembly of an appliance which does not alter its original approval and complies with other applicable requirements of this code.

4. Refrigerating equipment which is part of the equipment for which a permit has been issued pursuant to the requirements of this code.

5. A unit refrigerating system.

Plumbing (2010 California Plumbing Code 103.1.2 Exempt Work) A permit shall not be required for the following:

1. The stopping of leaks in drains, soil, waste or vent pipe, provided, however, that should any trap, drainpipe, soil, waste or vent pipe become defective and in becomes necessary to remove and replace the same with new material, the same shall be considered as new work and a permit shall be procured and inspection made as provided in this Code.

2. The clearing of stoppages, including the remove and reinstallation of water closets or; the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves, or fixtures, provided such repairs do not involve or require the replacement or rearrangement of valves, pipes, or fixtures.

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City Clerk

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1. When are the next City elections?

The next Emeryville General Municipal Election is Tuesday, November 6, 2018.

2. Does the City notarize documents for the public?

No, the City does not provide this service to the public. There are several private notaries within the City.

3. When are City Council meetings?

Regular City Council meetings are on the first and third Tuesday of the month, starting at 7:15pm. With the exception of the first Tuesday in January and the month of August, winter, and summer break. Live video and rebroadcasts of City Council meetings as well as meeting agendas, including downloadable staff reports are available through the City’s Website. Videos and meeting agendas/staff reports of special City Council meetings, such as study sessions or extra meetings, are also on the City’s website.

4. Where can I get election/voter information?

Information on City and School District elections can be found on the Alameda County Registrar of Voters website: www.acgov.org/rov or through the League of Women Voters election website: www.smartvoter.org. The League of Women Voters website also has information on voter registration status and the locations of where to vote. If you are not registered to vote and are interested in registering, go to the Registrar of Voters website for a downloadable copy of the voter registration form or contact the City Clerk’s Office (city_clerk@emeryville.org) and a registration form will be sent to you.

5. How do I apply to one of the City’s Advisory Boards, Committees or Commissions?

Community members interested in serving one of the City’s advisory bodies should fill out and submit an application to the City Clerk’s Office. Information on the City’s various advisory bodies, including meeting times, current membership, and staff contact as well as a downloadable copy of the common application is available through the Advisory Committee webpage. (http://www.emeryville.org/index.aspx?nid=89) Applications are also available by contacting the City Clerk’s Office. (city_clerk@emeryville.org)

6. Does the City notarize documents for the public?

No, the City does not provide notary services to the public. However, there are several notary publics in the City.

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Community Services

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1. How do I reserve a picnic space?

We rent out picnic spaces at Doyle Hollis Park and Marina Park. For more information, please call the Rental Specialist at 510-596-4353

2. How do I enroll in programs, classes, and camps?

Enrollment can be done online @ emeryville.org/register; by phone @ (510) 596-4395; or walk in @ ECCL 4727 San Pablo Ave, Emeryville (Building B)

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Community Services - Registration

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1. Where can I obtain more information about infant, toddler, youth, adult, and senior citizen activities/programs/events?

Please visit our Activity Guide link for more information on all of the current activities, programs, and special events. Direct Link to the Activity Guide

2. How can I register online for "most" youth, adult, and senior citizen activities/programs/events?

Sign-up for "most" of our youth, adult, and senior citizen programs 24 hours a day/7 days a week/365 days a year by visiting Emeryville’s CivicRec on-line registration website at emeryville.org/register. *Please note that the Emeryville Child Development Center (ECDC) and K-6 afterschool care programs at the Emeryville Center of Community Life (ECCL) are not available for online registration. Contact ECDC at (510) 596-4343 or ECCL at (510) 596-4395 for information on enrolling your child in these programs.

Direct Link to Activenet

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Economic Development & Housing

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1. how do I find available housing in Emeryville

go to the Housing department and there will be a list of available housing by types of property

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Fire Prevention Bureau

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1. What type of work requires a Permit?

Any construction that adds to the floor area or volume of an existing building; any structural modifications; any work related to fire alarm, detection, extinguishing or fire safety; any modifications to the electrical wiring, existing fire alarm, detection or extinguishing systems or related components.

2. How much does a Permit cost?

Fees are based on job valuation, with a minimum fee of $179.00. Contact the Building Division at (510) 596-4310 for additional information.

3. How long before my plans are reviewed / approved?

Normal turnaround time for initial review comments and / or approval is 2-3 weeks.

4. How many sets of plans do I need to submit?

A minimum of three (3) sets of plans and supportive calculations or documentation is required.

5. How do I schedule an inspection with the Fire Department?

You can schedule an inspection by calling Deputy Fire Marshal Cesar Avila (510) 596-3759 or by Cesar.Avila@acgov.org

6. What are Fire Code Permits?

Fire Code Permits are specialized permits that are issued (a) to a business for a particular operation (welding, rack storage, etc) or annual permits (Assembly - occupancies). A permit also serves as a method of advising the Fire Department of activities or operations within the city which have life safety importance.

7. What is a Knox Box?

A Knox Box is a device to ensure secure emergency access program access for the fire departments and property owners. Each Knox Box is purchased by a property owner and keyed to a single master key controlled by the fire department The Knox Box allows the fire department to have immediate access to a building at any time for a fire or medical emergency without inflicting significant damage to doors. For more information or to obtain a Knox Box contact Deputy Fire Marshal Cesar Avila (510) 596-3759 or by e-mail at Cesar.Avila@acgov.org

8. What is the Business Inspection Program?

The program provides for regular inspection of all buildings in Emeryville. The goal is the prevention of fires and removal of safety risks to Emeryville businesses. This program increases the safety of businesses as well as ensures a high degree of code compliance.

9. How often are businesses inspected?

On average, commercial businesses are inspected every two (2) years, with problematic certain operations inspected every year.

10. How much does it cost for a Fire Department inspection?

The inspection fee is assessed as per the current City of Emeryville Master Fee Schedule.

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General

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Human Resources

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1. How can I be notified of open positions?

You can be notified of our current positions by going to www.calopps.org and click on Creating A Personal Profile Link. You will be able to choose the cities and jobs you would like to be notified for as well as set an application to keep on file. www.calopps.org

2. Can I send an application or resume to keep on file?

No. We do not accept resumes or applications for positions that are not currently open.

3. How do I apply for an open position?

You can apply for any open position online by clicking on the Current Job Openings link or by going directly to www.calopps.org. You may also use our computer at the front desk of City Hall to apply. Current Job Openings

4. There is more than one position that I am interested. Can I submit one application for more than one position?

No, you must apply for each position separately. This ensures that there is no misunderstanding in the position you are applying for.

5. I applied for a specific open position. Will I get an acknowledgment from the City that my application has been received?

Yes, if you applied online you will receive an email notice that your application has been received.

6. Do I need to submit anything else with my application?

Not unless the job announcement states it. Be sure to read the job announcement for all required material that needs to be submitted with your application.

7. How do I find out the status of my application?

Once you apply for a open position you will receive a notification of whether you are moving on to the next phase in the recruitment either by email or standard mail.

8. Where do I obtain a typing certificate?

You may obtain a typing certificate from most temporary agencies. Please note that typing certificates obtained from an online typing service will not be accepted. Please check the job announcement for minimum requirements. To view a list of sampling agencies to obtain a typing certificate from click on Typing Certificates

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Planning Division

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1. What is the zoning for my property?

Please view the Zoning Map from the Emeryville Planning Regulations, found at the link below, to determine the zone for an individual property. You can zoom in on the map for more detail. If you are having trouble determining the zoning, please contact Navarre Oaks, Assistant Planner, at (510) 596-4362 or noaks@emeryville.org.

Zoning Map

2. Is my property in Emeryville?

There is often confusion about whether a property is within the City of Emeryville or not. Having 94608 as your zip code does not automatically mean the property is in Emeryville. For questions, please contact Assistant Planner, Navarre Oaks at (510) 596-4362 or noaks@emeryville.org.  

City Map

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Police Department

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1. I have been a victim of a crime and would like more information, who should I contact?

Please call the Criminal Investigations Section Sergeant at (510) 596-3708.

2. How do I get my vehicle out of impound?

If your vehicle was found with expired registration, the Police Department charges a fee of $197 (cash only & exact change). Current registration and a valid driver’s license must be provided at the time of the vehicle release. The towing company will also charge fees for the release of the vehicle. Emeryville Police Department is open 24 hours/7 days a week for vehicle releases.

3. How do I get my vehicle back if it was stolen and recovered by the Emeryville Police Department?

You must obtain a vehicle release from the law enforcement agency that took the original stolen report. Bring the vehicle release & a current valid driver’s license to the Emeryville Police Department. If you do not have a valid driver’s license, you must bring a person with a valid driver’s license to drive the vehicle away. You will then retrieve your vehicle at the towing facility in Oakland.

4. The Emeryville Police Department seized or recovered some of my property. How do obtain my property back?

Not all seized or recovered property can be returned. If you would like to inquire about recovering your property, please call the property clerk at (510) 596-3712.

5. Does the Emeryville Police Department perform Live Scan fingerprints, or offer other fingerprinting services?

Yes. Fingerprinting is done by appointment only Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 3:00 pm (excluding holidays). You must make an appointment with by calling (510) 596-3718.

**PLEASE NOTE, DUE TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC, OUR LIVESCAN FINGERPRINTING SERVICES ARE SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE** 

6. What should I do if I witness suspicious activity in my neighborhood?

We encourage people to call the police department when witnessing suspicious activity. Please call the main phone number, which is (510) 596-3700. DIAL 911, only if the crime is life threatening or there is imminent danger of a violence. If you are using a cell phone, make sure you program the following emergency phone number for the Emeryville Police Department (510) 596-3737. When you dial 911 on a cell phone, the call is directed to the California Highway Patrol, who has to transfer the call to the local police agency where you are located. This can take several minutes, so please program your cell phone with your local law enforcement agency emergency phone number.

7. How do I contact animal services?

The Emeryville Police Department contracts their animal service through the City of Piedmont. Please call the Emeryville Police Department at (510) 596-3700.

8. Where do I find out about job openings at the Emeryville Police Department?

To find out about job openings the in the Emeryville Police Department, click

9. How and where do I pay a traffic citation?

Traffic citations are handled by the Alameda County Superior Court, Traffic Division, which is located at the Wiley W. Manuel Courthouse, 661 Washington Street, 1st Floor, Oakland, CA 94607. They are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (excluding Court holidays). You may pay your ticket in person or by mail. You can contact them at (510) 627-4701. More...

10. How do I get a fix-it ticket signed off?

Ensure that the violation that you were cited for has been corrected (i.e. registration current, headlight functioning, etc.). You must bring your citation to any law enforcement agency or flag down an officer in your community to have them sign off on it as to verifying that the violation has been corrected. As a precaution, it is advised to make a copy of the citation (front and back) before mailing it (in case it becomes lost). Most agencies have a correction fee, so be sure that it is mailed in with the citation. The Emeryville Police Department’s correction fee is $10.00.

11. What if I wasn’t driving?

Complete the enclosed form as best as you can and forward the information provided to Redflex (provide an address for Redflex), also make a copy & forward the form to the driver if you know who the driver is. For further questions, please call the Traffic Division at (510) 596-3723.

12. Who do I contact if I have a question in regards to a parking citation?

Parking penalty payments may be sent by mail to the address below. The penalty fees for your violation is listed on your citation. Please write the citation number on your check and mail WITHIN TEN (10) WORKING DAYS FROM THE DATE OF YOUR CITATION. Emeryville Police Department Parking Enforcement Center P.O. Box 5010 San Ramon, CA 94583 To pay by Visa or Mastercard, call 1-800-281-PARK or go to www.ezpaycorp.com

13. How do I appeal a parking citation?

To appeal a parking citation, call (510) 596-3700 to request a Parking Citation Appeals Request form and have it mailed to you directly, request one in person Monday thru Friday from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm (excluding holidays) on the second floor of the Emeryville Police Department building or you may access one by the internet, just click here to download/print the form. Fill this form out completely and submit with any paperwork that you wish to use as proof for your appeal. Mail it to the Emeryville Police Department Traffic Division, 2449 Powell Street, Emeryville , CA 94608 or return it to the Police Services on the second floor of the Emeryville Police Department building during the above hours. Please do not send original paperwork, only copies You should receive a response within fourteen (14) business days from the date of filing your appeal. Any further questions can be answered by reading the back of the appeal form.

14. When am I allowed to park in a yellow zone?

Yellow zones are for vehicles with commercial plates only that are actively loading and unloading items.

15. What constitutes a commercial plate?

A commercial plate contains one number followed by one letter, then five numbers (i.e. 5A12345).

16. In regards to street sweeping, what side of the street am I allowed to park on?

We have street sweeping signs posted in Emeryville. Street sweeping is done on the first, second, third, and fourth Thursdays of each month. We do not have street sweeping if there is a fifth Thursday in the month. The first and third Thursdays of each month, street sweeping is done on the north and west side of the street. The second and fourth Thursdays of each month, street sweeping is done on the south and east side of the street. Street sweeping is from 8 am to12 noon.

17. How do I remove a vehicle parked in my paid parking space in the apartment or condominium complex I reside or work in?

You must contact the property manager regarding the vehicle because the vehicle is parked on private property.

18. What should I do about vehicles that are abandoned and parked for a prolonged period of time?

Contact the police at (510) 596-3700 and report the description (color, make, model and if possible year) and location of the car. The vehicle will be tagged and removed after 72 hours, and will be towed.

19. How do I have a VIN verification completed?

Contact the California Department of Motor Vehicles or your local California Highway Patrol Office for Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) verification.

20. How do I file a police report?

Emeryville Police Department is open 24 hours a day/7 days a week to file a report for crimes that occurred in Emeryville. If you are filing the report in person at 2449 Powell Street, 2nd floor, after 5:00 pm, please use the red phone in the lobby across from the elevators to notify dispatchers you would like to file a police report.

21. How do I obtain a copy of a police report or event?

Involved parties may obtain a copy of a report in person at the Emeryville Police Services front counter Monday – Friday from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (closed on holidays). The 1st copy is free and each additional copy is $20.00 (cash only & exact change). If you are unable to pick-up a copy, you may maila self-addressed envelope with your name, date/time/location of occurrence and case or event number to the Emeryville Police Department. If you are not a victim but you represent a business, you must bring in a valid state identification card, and a request letter on business letterhead authorizing you to obtain a copy and $20 in cash only.

22. How much does it cost to get a copy of a police report?

If you are a party to the action and listed on the actual report, the first copy is free. Thereafter, it will be $20 for reports and $18 for event histories (cash only & exact change). Please have the case or event number available. You may contact (510) 596-3700 for more information.

23. If I am unable to be at the Emeryville Police Department before 5 pm how can I get a copy of the report?

If you are unable to pick-up a copy, you may mail us a signed request and a self-addressed envelope with your name, date/time/location of occurrence and case or event number.

24. If I am not listed on the report, how can I get a copy of the report?

Unfortunately you will not be able to obtain a report unless you are listed on the actual report.

25. How do I obtain a dog license?

Dog licenses may be issued for any dog age 4 months or older. With the exception of holidays, dog licenses are issued Monday through Friday from 8am-5pm. The dog must reside in the city of Emeryville and the owner must provide proof of residency and proof of current rabies vaccination. Dog licenses may be issued for one year or less at a fee of $15 or two to three years at a fee of $25. All payments are cash, exact change.

26. How do I obtain a taxi cab permit?

You must contact the City of Emeryville to purchase a business license, then contact the Emeryville Police Department at (510) 596-3723 x607 to schedule an appointment for a taxi cab inspection. On the day of your appointment, copies of the following are needed: Proof of current registration, proof of current insurance, and a receipt showing that you paid the taxi cab permit fee to the City of Emeryville. Fees are paid to the City of Emeryville, 1333 Park Avenue. Their phone number is (510) 596-3790. The Emeryville PoliceTraffic Division will inspect your taxi to ensure it meets all safety standards. You must also schedule an appointment with the property clerk by calling (510) 596-3712 for picture identification. If all safety standards are met, a taxi cab permit will be issued.

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Public Works

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1. I have a contract with the City, how soon after submitting my invoice can I expect payment?

Assuming your submittal is error free, you should receive payment within 35 days of submittal.

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Redevelopment Agency

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1. Where can I find information about available commercial property (office / retail / industrial)?

Information on available commercial space in Emeryville can be found on the Commercial Assistance page. This information is updated approximately every six months, usually in the spring and fall.

Properties that are available either for sale or lease below market rates are infrequently available, and typically are provided only under special circumstances. Please contact the Economic Development and Housing Department at (510) 596-4350 to inquire if any such properties are currently available.

2. What kinds of businesses are eligible for financial assistance from the Emeryville Redevelopment Agency?

For the loan program, businesses (exceptions below) with a demonstrated need for Agency assistance which are either currently located on, or are planning to locate to, San Pablo and Park Aves. are eligible for this program. Both existing and start-up enterprises are eligible under the loan program.

For the façade grant program, all commercial facades (exceptions below) which are either currently located on, or are planning to locate to, San Pablo and Park Aves. in Emeryville are eligible for this program.

Ineligible businesses under both programs, regardless of location, are gun stores, liquor stores, pornography stores, massage parlors, pawn shops, check cashing businesses, cigarette stores, video game, and gambling establishments.

3. What kind of financial incentives does the Emeryville Redevelopment Agency offer small businesses?

The Emeryville Redevelopment Agency has two programs to assist small businesses. There is a low-interest loan program, which can be used to help finance tenant improvements and non-movable equipment purchases. There is also a façade grant program, which reimburses commercial property owners for commercial signage and storefront improvements.