FAQs • Hillsborough, CA • CivicEngage

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Animals & Pests

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1. Are there regulations on the maximum permissible number or types of pets?: Yes. Limits on the types and number of pets are contained in the Hillsborough Municipal Code, HMC 6.16.030, which limits residents to 5 dogs. A horse may be kept if the resident has a minimum 2-acre lot. Chickens and other fowl are allowed by permit only (issued by the City Manager's Office), with several restrictions on the location of cages and noise.

2. I have a pest problem in my house. What should I do?: Commercial exterminators can help homeowners with pests or visit the San Mateo County Mosquito & Vector Control District website for additional information. San Mateo County Mosquito & Vector Control

3. What should I do if I have a problem with barking dogs?: Dogs that bark excessively can be deemed a nuisance by HMC 8.16.030. Contact the Police Department's Code Enforcement Unit at 650-375-7470.

4. How do I handle a bee problem?: Commercial exterminators can assist homeowners with bees on private property or visit San Mateo County Mosquito & Vector Control District website for additional information. San Mateo County Mosquito & Vector Control

5. I found a stray cat. What should I do?: Contact the Peninsula Humane Society at 650-340-7022.

6. What do I do if I need assistance with a dangerous animal on my property?: For animals presenting an immediate danger, call 911. For other inquiries, contact the Peninsula Humane Society at 650-340-7022.

7. Who do I contact if I want a dead animal removed?: Contact the Peninsula Humane Society at 650-340-7022.

8. Where should I go if I want to adopt a pet (dogs, cats, and rabbits)?: Visit the Peninsula Humane Society at:
12 Airport Boulevard
San Mateo, CA 94401

For more information, call them at 650-340-7022.

9. Where do I get a hunting or fishing license?: Most sporting goods stores sell licenses or visit California Department of Fish and Wildlife website. Dept. of Fish & Games

10. Where do I get a license for my dog / cat?: A license can be obtained through the County of San Mateo.

11. Where is the animal shelter?: The Peninsula Humane Society is located at:
1450 Rollins Road
Burlingame, CA 94010

12. Who manages mosquitoes in Hillsborough?: The San Mateo County Mosquito & Vector Control District (650-344-8592) is responsible for managing mosquitoes in the area.

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Bills, Fees, Licenses, Certificates & Taxes

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1. Can I pay a city bill online?: Yes. You may Pay Online. If you choose this payment option, you will be linked to the Official Payment Corp. website. Go to Finance Department or call 650-375-7400.

2. Do I need a license to work from home?: A business license is required for all persons engaged in business activities in Hillsborough. Home Occupation permits are required if the business is located within a residence. View our business licensing page. For more information, please contact the Finance Department at 650-375-7400.

3. How much does a business license or permit cost?: View our business licensing page or call 650-375-7400.

4. Who do I ask if I have a question about a bill / invoice from the town?: Please contact the Finance Department at 650-375-7400.

5. Who do I contact if I have a question about my property or real estate taxes?: Tax bills are issued by the San Mateo County Auditor-Controller's Office, who can be contacted at 650-363-4142.

6. Who should I contact if I haven’t received my water bill this month?: Hillsborough bills every other month for water service. If you have not received a bill, please contact the Finance Department at 650-375-7402.

7. I need a copy of a birth or death certificate. Who should I contact?: Contact the County Recorder.

8. I need a marriage license / certificate. Who should I contact?: Contact the County Recorder.

9. Who should I contact if my gas or electric bill is wrong?: Contact Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) at 1-800-743-5000.

10. Who should I contact if my water bill is wrong?: Contact the Finance Department at 650-375-7402.

11. What licenses do I need to start a business?: A business license is required for all persons engaged in business activities in Hillsborough. Home Occupation permits are required if the business is located within a residence. For more information, view our business licensing page or call 650-375-7400.

12. Where can I get a handicapped / disabled person parking permit or license plate?: Please contact the Department of Motor Vehicles.

13. Where can I get help with my car registration?: Contact the Department of Motor Vehicles.

14. Where can I renew my driver's license?: Contact the Department of Motor Vehicles. The DMV now offers online appointments at most offices.

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Elections, Voting & Legal Issues

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1. How and where do I register to vote?: Forms are available at Town Hall or from the San Mateo County Registrar of Voters.

2. How can I place an initiative on the ballot?: Contact the San Mateo County Registrar of Voters.

3. How can I see all the municipal laws?: Visit the Hillsborough Municipal-Code page: Municipal Code

4. How do I run for public office?: City Council elections are held in even numbered years. Contact the City Clerk for additional information. Contact the San Mateo County Registrar of Voters regarding elections to other offices. County of San Mateo Elections Office

5. How do I vote by absentee ballot?: Contact the Registrar of Voters.

6. Who do I contact if I want to get married?: Contact the County of San Mateo.

7. Who do I contact if I want to get divorced?: Contact the County of San Mateo.

8. How do I find out more about the city ordinances that concern my property?: All ordinances are contained within the Hillsborough Municipal Code. Regulations which relate to development are contained in the Planning Department's Development Standards.

9. When are the next elections?: The Registrar of Voters schedules elections. City Council elections are held in even numbered years.

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Emergency Assistance

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1. Who do I call if a fire hydrant has been hit by a car?: Please call the Police Department at 650-375-7470.

2. Who should I contact if a fire hydrant has been opened?: Fire hydrants should only be opened by town personnel, who wear identifiable clothing and carry town IDs, or persons with authorized fire hydrant meters, which look like a 2-foot extension of the hydrant (from the side).

Please report all other persons to the Police Department by calling 650-375-7470.

3. What do I do if a water main has broken?: During business hours, please call the Finance Department at 650-375-7402. After hours, please call the Police Department at 650-375-7470.

4. When and how should I shut off the gas to my house?: Visit the Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) website.

5. What should I do if I am a battered woman (with children) and I need help?: Contact the 24-hour Family Stress Services at 650-579-0350.

6. What should I do if I need an emergency shelter?: Contact San Mateo County Family Stress Services at 650-579-0350.

7. How should I report a gas leak?: A gas leak can represent an immediate threat to health and safety. Call 911 to have the Fire Department dispatched. Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) maintains the gas lines in Hillsborough. Visit the PG&E website to find out how to turn off your gas.

8. What do I do if the water pressure has dropped in my neighborhood?: During business hours, please call the Finance Department at 650-375-7402. After hours, please call the Police Department at 650-375-7470.

9. How should I prepare for an earthquake or other disaster?: Hillsborough Neighborhood Network assists Hillsborough residents with emergency preparedness. Visit HNN webpage for more information.
The Department of Homeland Security offers excellent tips and information, as does the California Office of Emergency Services. HNN Web Page

10. Where is my water shut off?: Typically it is in the front of your home. Often it is a red wheel or lever located on the lower portion of a pipe leading to a water spout. If you have a break in your lateral line, the water needs to be shut off at the street. Please call a plumber or Public Works at 650-375-7444. After work hours, contact the Police department non-emergency number at 650-375-7470.
Public Works Water Dept. web page

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Environmental Concerns

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1. How can I dispose of my computer and monitor?: Rethink Waste has information for the reuse and recycling of electronics.
Garbage and recycling pick-up service is granted by the town through:
Recology San Mateo County
225 Shoreway Road
San Carlos, CA 94070
Ph: 650-595-3900

2. How do I dispose of car batteries?: RecycleWorks provides disposal information. Call 888-442-2666 for more information.

3. How do I dispose of heavy trash like household appliances?: View the Trash, Recyclables, and Organics Collection page.
Garbage and recycling pick-up service is granted by the town through:
Recology San Mateo County
225 Shoreway Road
San Carlos, CA 94070
Ph: 650-595-3900

4. How do I dispose of paint and toxic materials?: Visit the Household Hazardous Waste page.
A more complete list of services offered can be found at the Waste Management Website

5. How do I dispose of used motor oil?: RecycleWorks provides disposal information. Call 888-442-2666 for more information.

6. How can I find information on recycling?: The Town of Hillsborough is a member of the South Bayside Waste Management Authority, which offers a variety of recycling programs.

7. How do I report a blocked storm drain?: During business hours, please contact the Public Works Department at 650-375-7444. After hours, please contact the Police Department at 650-375-7470.

8. How should I report illegal dumping?: If reporting dumping in process, please call the Police Department at 650-375-7470. To report wastes along the roadside, please call Public Works at 650- 375-7444.

9. Who do I contact to report a polluter?: To report someone in the process of dumping materials into storm drains or creeks, please contact the Police Department at 650-375-7470.

To report car emissions, please contact the Bay Area Air Quality Management District.

10. Who do I call if I am concerned that a neighbor might be cutting down a heritage tree?: During business hours, call the Building Department at 650-375-7411 with the neighbor's address. The staff can see if a tree removal permit has been issued or can send an inspector out to see if the tree removal is authorized. After regular business hours or on weekends, call the Police Department at 650-375-7470.

11. When is the garbage collection on my street?: View the Trash, Recyclables, and Organics Collection page.

12. What items go in each disposal cart?: Trash is placed in the black cart. Recyclables go in the blue cart. Organics go in the green cart. View the Trash, Recyclables, and Organics Collection page for more information.

13. What can I do about uncollected trash or recyclables?: View the Trash, Recyclables, and Organics Collection page for information regarding complaints.

14. When and how can I burn leaves?: Outdoor burning is not allowed in the Town of Hillsborough. Residents can dispose an unlimited amount of leaves and other green wastes on their recycling day.

15. Where is the nearest dump or transfer station?: Most wastes can be dropped off at the South Bay Recycling located at:

SouthBay Recycling
650-802-8355
333 Shoreway Road
San Carlos, CA 94070

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Green Building

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1. Approximately how much can people save by installing green features in their homes? When do people start seeing the payoffs?: Savings due to the installation of any green appliance or implementation of any green practice vary based on size of the home, improvements in energy efficiency technologies, and other factors. For additional information, visit our website at Hillsborough Energy Efficiency

2. Are there any national rebates or tax credits for building green homes?: The California Energy Commission offers a “buy-down” for specific alternative power technologies. Visit their website to learn more information about this program.
Bay Area Water Supply & Conservation Agency provides additional information regarding water conservation programs. Visit BAWSCA website for more information. BAWSCA

3. Are there any special forms I have to fill out in order to build green in Hillsborough?: Along with other building permits, residents should read the New Home Construction Green Building Guidelines or the Home Remodeling Green Building Guidelines.

4. Are there some green building model homes or showrooms that I can see for inspiration?: Visit the Build it Green website for information about green home tours in the Bay Area.

5. I want to incorporate green building features into my construction project. What are the building code considerations I must know to proceed?: Hillsborough residents who want to undertake green building projects must read the New Home Construction Guidelines for Green Buildings or the Remodeling Guidelines for Green Buildings.

6. I’m not remodeling my house, but I want to add some green building features to save money. What are some things I can do?: An easy way to make your home energy-efficient would be to install energy and water efficient appliances and efficient lighting fixtures. You can find such products at the Energy Star website. Please visit the Bay Area Water Supply and Conservation Agency's (BAWSCA) website for water conservation tips. Browse our website, the additional links, and the green building guidelines to see what features you can incorporate into your home or future projects.

7. Where can I find information about contractors who specialize in green building?: You can find many local resources for green building at the Build It Green website.

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Housing

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1. What is the Housing Element?: The housing element is one of the seven mandated elements of the local general plan, which is the Town’s “blueprint” for achieving residents’ vision for the future. Housing element law, enacted in 1969, mandates that local governments adequately plan to meet the existing and projected housing needs of all economic segments of the community. The law acknowledges that, in order for the private market to adequately address housing needs and demand, local governments must adopt land use plans and regulatory systems which provide opportunities for, and do not unduly constrain, housing development.
For more information please visit 2014-2022 Housing Element Web page

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Nuisance / Code Complaints

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1. What can I do about construction noise?: If you believe that construction is occurring at times other than those permitted in Hillsborough (Monday - Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; no work on Sundays and Town Hall holidays), please contact the Police Department. For noise that you believe is too loud, also contact the Police Department. Patrol Officers will measure the decibels with decibel meter if there are concerns.

2. What can I do about trees blocking my view?: The town does not have an ordinance protecting views or that requires anyone to trim or remove a tree to preserve a view.

Residents are advised to contact the owner of the tree to determine if trimming or removal is possible.

If the tree of concern is town-owned, please contact the Public Works Department. Generally, the town will not allow the trimming or removal of trees in the town's open space areas.

3. Whom do I contact to report about an illegal addition on a home?: If you believe that someone is illegally constructing an addition, you may call the Building Department at 650-375-7411 to see if there is a Building Permit on record. The Building Department will need to have the street address in order to search the files. If it is determined that work is being done without a permit, a Building Inspector will be sent to investigate the job.

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Parks & Recreation

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1. Are bicycles permitted in the parks?: Yes, bicycles are allowed in the parks.

2. Can I reserve a picnic table at Vista Park?: Picnic tables cannot be reserved at Vista Park.

3. Can I reserve the play field at Vista Park?: The field can be reserved through the Hillsborough Recreation Department.

4. Can I walk in open space areas?: No. Open spaces are not available for public access.

5. How do I report graffiti at a park?: Please contact Public Works via email or post your concerns at SeeClickFix

6. How do I report there being too much trash at a park?: Call Public Works at 650-375-7444.

7. What recreation programs are available for children, adults, and seniors?: The Hillsborough Recreation Department, a joint powers authority formed by the Town of Hillsborough and Hillsborough City School District, provides a variety of recreational programs.

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Permits & Signs

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1. Can I get a sign for my business?: In general, permanent signs for businesses are not allowed in town. Temporary signs are allowed for real estate and contractors. One sign, no larger than 12 by 15 inches, black and white only (no colors) may be posted on a property for real estate purposes or to identify a contractor working on a job for which there is an active permit.

Additional details are included in Hillsborough Municipal Code Section 17.48.040, the Sign Ordinance. Call 650-375-7411 for more information.

2. Do I need a permit for a home alarm system?: Hillsborough Municipal Code requires all residents to obtain a permit to install a burglary alarm system. Moreover, the Police Department offers alarm monitoring services. Interested residents should contact the Finance Department at 650-375-7402 for more information.

3. Do I need a permit for a new swimming pool?: Yes, a Building Permit is required for a swimming pool. In addition, the town has standards and requirements for the placement of pools, pool equipment, and spas. Please contact the Building department at 650-375-7411.

4. Do I need a permit for an estate sale or garage sale?: No permit is needed, but please keep in mind that residents are responsible for ensuring that traffic impacts are limited. Sales are limited to 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on either 1 day or 2 consecutive days only. No more than 3 sales per year, per address, are allowed. Signs may only be posted on the sale site, not on adjoining properties or on public property (such as streets and poles). Call 650-375-7470 for more information.

5. Do I need a permit for my business sign?: Permanent business signs are not permitted in Hillsborough. Permits are not required for temporary business signs. Business signs permitted in Hillsborough are contractor's signs (on the job site) and real estate signs. Signs are limited to one sign per property, no larger than 12 by 15 inches. in black on white only. Contractor's signs must be removed within one week after the job is completed. Real estate signs may remain on the property only one week after the transaction has been completed.

6. Do I need a permit to cut down a tree?: In some cases, yes. There are different procedures for tree removal, depending on the circumstance. If a tree is an immediate hazard, the tree removal request is given a top priority. View the town's tree removal guidelines, or call 650-375-7411 for more information.

7. Do I need a permit to place an antenna or satellite dish on my property or house?: The town has regulations about the placement of antenna and satellite dishes. View the Satellite Dish / Antenna Application, or call 650-375-7411 for more information.

8. How do I obtain a contractor’s license?: Please contact the State Contractor's License Board.

9. How do I schedule a building inspection?: Schedule an inspection by calling the Building Department at 650-375-7411 during regular business hours. Please call at least 48 hours in advance to ensure that your inspection can be scheduled according to your needs.

10. How large of an addition may I put on my house?: View the Lot and House Size handout to understand how the town regulates house sizes. The larger the lot, the larger the house may be.

To determine the possible size of an addition, you will need to know the exact lot size and the size of the current house. Lot size can be determined by contacting a surveyor or a civil engineer and having traverse closure calculations prepared (this does not require a survey). You may need to measure your house, or refer to plans which you may have (some plans are available on microfiche in the Building Department) to determine its size. Once you know these two key facts, you will be able to easily calculate the maximum size permitted for an addition.

If you need assistance, contact the Planning Department at 650-375-7411.

11. I am building a new house. Where can I get information?: The Planning Department has important information, such as Design Guidelines and Development Standards, which will help you and your architect understand the town's requirements and regulations. In addition, there is information about the town's Architecture and Design Review process for new houses.

12. I am planning a large function / party / fundraiser at my home. Do I need a permit?: For more information, call 650-375-7412 at least one month before holding your event. If you plan to use a temporary tent shelter, you are required to obtain the permission of the Central County Fire Department.

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13. I am remodeling my house. What permits or approvals do I need?: If the remodel will alter the exterior appearance or the size of your home, design review approval is required before applying for a Building Permit. The Planning Department has information, such as Design Guidelines and Development Standards, which will help you and your architect understand the town's requirements and standards. Designs for small-scale additions and exterior changes (such as ground floor additions smaller than 500 square feet, fencing along the street, driveway gates, and landscaping) may be approved administratively by the Planning Department staff. Designs for larger projects, including second-story additions, require design approval by the town's Architecture and Design Review Board.

14. I want to hold an outdoor / open-air event. Do I need a permit?: Call 650-375-7412 at least one month before holding your event. Fundraising permits are required for certain types of fund raising events. Events where more than 200 persons will be present require review of parking by the Police Department. If a tent is erected or persons will be indoors, the Central County Fire Department must also be consulted. Town ordinance limits the use of outdoor speakers and other amplification devices, and noise levels should remain below the nuisance level defined in the Municipal Code.

15. I want to install solar panels. Do I need a permit?

The installation of solar panels requires a Building Permit. Please contact the Building Division at 650-375-7411 for more information.

16. I would like to film a commercial or a movie in Hillsborough. Do I need a permit?: The Planning Department administers film permits. Call 650-375-7411 for more information.

17. May I put up a sign on telephone or Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) poles?: No signs may be posted on poles.

18. How do I find more information on construction permits?: Permits are issued by the Building Department, located in town Hall, between 8 and 11:30 a.m. Permit fees are based on the value of the job. If you have already submitted a Building Permit application and plans for plan checking, the Building Department will call you, or your contractor, when the permit is ready to be issued. Building Permit applications are accepted during normal business hours.

Call 650-375-7411 for more information.

19. What is a Certificate of Occupancy?: A Certificate of Occupancy is issued when new structures are completed and fit to occupy. The Building Department issues Certificates of Occupancy when the final inspection has been made and the construction is complete. Call 650-375-7411 for more information.

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Police Services & Parking

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1. How do I contact a Police Officer?: For immediate non-emergency assistance please call 650-375-7470.
In the event of an emergency please call 9-1-1.

If you're unsure of how to contact an employee of the Hillsborough Police Department, please see the below listed link. You will be redirected to the department's staff directory.
HPD Directory

2. How can I get an overnight parking permit?

Please contact the Police Department at 650-375-7470 if you need to obtain an overnight parking permit. You may also fill out a request for overnight parking by completing the form linked below. Once completed, please mail a copy to the Hillsborough Police Department,email a digital copy to police@hillsborough.net, or fax to 650-375-7468.
Overnight Permit Request

3. How can I mark my valuables?

The Police Department suggests taking photos of all valuables and using an engraving pen when practical to mark valuables like TVs, tools, etc. Call 650-375-7470 for more information.

4. Who do I call if I have a question about a parking ticket?

Contact the Police Department at 650-375-7470.

5. If I have information about a crime, how should I report it?

Please call the Police Department at the business number, 650-375-7470, or if you prefer, call the tip line at 650-375-7473.

6. Who do I contact if I need help with a "fix it" ticket?

Generally, you can drop in at the Police Department to have repairs verified by a police officer.

7. Where can I find information about preventing ID theft?

Visit the Federal Trade Commission website.

8. How do I report a burglary?

Call the Police Department at 650-375-7470, and an officer will make a report.

9. How do I report a city vehicle driven recklessly?

To make comments about city passenger vehicles, please call the Police Department at 650-375-7470. For city trucks, call the Public Works Department at 650-375-7444.

10. How should I report speeding traffic in my neighborhood?

Please contact the Police Department at 650-375-7470.

11. Who do I contact to report an abandoned vehicle?

Contact the Police Department's Code Enforcement Officer at 650-375-7572.

12. How do I report graffiti?

Please report graffiti and other acts of vandalism to the Police Department at 650-375-7470.

13. Who do I contact if I want to start or join a neighborhood watch?

The Police Department offers a community awareness meeting program. Call 650-375-7470 for more information.

14. What do I do if I have a question regarding a traffic ticket issued by Hillsborough Police Department?

Please call the Police Department at 650-375-7470 during business hours.

15. How should I report a stolen or vandalized vehicle?

Call the Police Department at 650-375-7470.

16. What should I do to keep my home safe when I'm out of town / on vacation?

Call the Police Department at 650-375-7470 to request to have your name added to the vacation watch list and ensure your contact information is up-to-date with the police. Place lights on a timer. For extended absences, cancel or place mail and papers on hold, or request assistance from neighbors to remove such items from view.

17. What are the rules about parking in the town?

Parking is permitted along street frontages, unless specifically marked otherwise. Drivers should not park their cars in any space that would prevent a fire truck or ambulance from passing through a street. Cars are not allowed to park overnight on the streets, unless provided permission by the Police Department. Call 650-375-7470 for more information.

18. Who is allowed to solicit from door to door?

Religious groups and the U.S. Census can solicit without a permit. Soliciting is not allowed at night. No one should leave printed materials in your mailbox, on your car, or in your driveway.

If you do not recognize a person at your door, the Police Department suggests that you do not open the door. Residents should always report any suspicious persons to the police.

Please be advised that Town of Hillsborough employees carry IDs and typically wear clothing identifying them as employees. Residents are encouraged to request to see the ID before opening a door.
Police Non-emergency 650-375-7470
Call 911 for Emergencies

19. Where can I find information regarding alarm monitoring?

Please refer to the Hillsborough Police Department Alarm Monitoring brochure for information regarding alarm monitoring. Alarm Monitoring Brochure

20. Where can I view a summary of police services?

Please refer to the police services brochure for a brief summary of services offered by the Hillsborough Police Department. HPD Services brochure.

21. What is the Automated License Plate Reader (A.L.P.R.) Policy?

Please see the below listed hyperlink for more information.
ALPR Policy

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Public Assistance

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1. How can I have meals delivered?

San Mateo County offers programs to assist homebound seniors and disabled persons. You can call 650-295-2173 for information.

2. Where can I get information about food stamps or food assistance?

County of San Mateo has a variety of food and nutrition programs.

3. Where can I get information about Medicaid?

Please visit the Medicaid website.

4. Whom do I talk to about Social Security?

Please visit the Social Security Administration website for information.

5. What can I do about trees blocking my view?

The town does not have an ordinance protecting views or that requires anyone to trim or remove a tree to preserve a view.

Residents are advised to contact the owner of the tree to determine if trimming or removal is possible.

If the tree of concern is town-owned, please contact the Public Works Department. Generally, the town will not allow the trimming or removal of trees in the town's open space areas.

6. What can I do about tree limbs in the street?

Please contact Public Works at 650-375-7444 during business hours, or the Police Department at 650-375-7470 after hours.

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Public Transportation

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1. Is there a Dial-a-Ride service?

The county's public transit provider, SamTrans, provides paratransit. They can be reached at 800-660-4287.

2. Where are the bus stops located?

SamTrans provides bus service in San Mateo County. Stops are located on the El Camino Real and at the commuter lot near Highway 280 on Golf Course Road.

3. Where is the train station?

The nearest Caltrain train station is located at Burlingame Avenue and California Drive.
290 California Drive
Burlingame, CA 94010
Map

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Public Works

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1. How do I locate my backflow device or clean out?

Both the backflow device and clean out are located on your sewer lateral, which connects your home to the town's main.

A backflow device is usually located within 10 feet of the street. It is buried in the ground, usually within a small concrete box marked as sewer.

There can be more than one clean out on a lateral or directly from your home. One cleanout is usually located immediately outside your residence. If you walk the perimeter of your home you are likely to find at least one black 4" pipe on an outside wall or in the ground at grade level. (The lid should rest on the pipe, and not be screwed down, as that would prevent proper operation of the clean out, which should permit sewage to escape so it does not come out of your household fixtures. The town provides free pop-up lids that break when under sewer pressure.)

If you need assistance, please contact Public Works at 650-375-7444. Sewer Smart

2. The drains / sewers in my street smell bad. What can I do?

If there is an overflow of sewage requiring immediate attention, please call Public Works at 650-375-7444 during business hours, or the Police Department 650-375-7470 after business hours.

3. To whom do I report a chlorine smell in the water?

A chlorine smell can represent a problem with water quality. Please report it to Public Works at 650-375-7444 or, after hours, contact the Police Department 650-375-7470.

4. What can I do about construction noise?

If you believe that construction is occurring at times other than those permitted in Hillsborough (Monday - Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; no work on Sundays and Town Hall holidays), please contact the Police Department. For noise that you believe is too loud, also contact the Police Department. Patrol Officers will measure the decibels with decibel meter if there are concerns.

5. Who is responsible for trimming street trees?

Generally, residents are responsible for trimming trees along the frontage of their properties. The town maintains trees on public properties.

6. Who manages or maintains city-owned / public properties?

Most town public properties are managed and maintained by the Public Works Department. They can be contacted at 650-375-7444.

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Public Works FAQs

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1. Can I pay a city bill online?

Yes. You may Pay Online. If you choose this payment option, you will be linked to the Official Payment Corp. website. Go to Finance Department or call 650-375-7400.

2. Who should I contact if my water bill is wrong?

Contact the Finance Department at 650-375-7402.

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Roads & Streets

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1. How do I report that a street light is out?

Most street lights in Hillsborough are mounted on poles owned and maintained by PG&E. To report the street light, try to obtain the pole number which is located near its base. You can then report the problem online.

2. How can a report that a street sign is broken, missing or illegible?

Please report issue to Public Works at 650-375-7444. Report your concerns by completing the SeeClickFix form on the Public Works homepage or on your mobile devices at SeeClickFix

3. How can I have my street address repainted?

The town does not paint numbers on street curbs. The town and the Central County Fire Department prefer that residents locate street numbers in a visible spot facing the street, adjacent to a driveway that is illuminated at night.

4. Who do I contact to have the colored curb repainted?

Contact Public Works at 650-375-7444.

5. How can I report a pothole?

Please contact Public Works at 650-375-7444 and let them know the street name, cross streets and the direction (north, east, south, west) of the lane with the pothole, or fill out the See Click Fix report form found on the Public Works homepage.

The town does not have jurisdiction over any portions of the El Camino Real or Highway 280. Please visit CalTrans website for additional information or call 510-286-4444.

6. How can I request a no parking zone?

Contact Public Works at 650-375-7444. Such requests are reviewed on a case by case basis.

7. How can I request a stop sign?

Please contact Public Works at 650-375-7444. The City Engineer considers each request on a case-by-case basis.

8. How do I report tree roots lifting up a parking strip?

Parking strips are the responsibility of the homeowner.

Please attempt to contact the homeowner.

9. Can I request a speed bump be installed on my street?

The town does not install speed bumps as a policy.

10. What is done about broken pavement?

Because of contraction and expansion due to weather conditions, and daily wear and tear, asphalt pavement often develops cracks. The town conducts a biannual survey of its street to examine the general condition of the streets, including their structure. This survey is called the Pavement Condition Index. The town sets its priorities for the streets to be repaired and reconstructed annually.

Contact Public Works at 650-375-7444 for questions.

11. Who do I contact about a leaky fire hydrant on my street?

Please contact Public Works at 650-375-7444 or fill out the SeeClickFix report form on the Public Works homepage.

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Sewer System

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1. How can I help the town maintain the system?

Residents can help by maintaining their sewer laterals and reducing water usage whenever possible, particularly during wet weather. Repairing or replacing a damaged sewer lateral reduces the amount of groundwater infiltration into the sewer system and prevents overflows.
Proper disposal of all materials can help prevent backups and assist town crews in maintaining sewer lines. Residents can also maintain their sewer laterals and have them inspected periodically. If you plan to plant trees in your yard, make sure you know where your sewer lateral is located and avoid planting trees near a lateral. Roots are the most common cause of damage to laterals. The town will assist you in locating your sewer lateral.
Residents should avoid putting grease or eggshells in their sinks or garbage disposals. Grease is a major cause of sewer stoppages and eggshells do not decompose and can clog pipes and pumps.
The only thing that should be flushed down the toilet is toilet paper. Other items, such as feminine hygiene products, wrappers, baby wipes, and Swiffer pads can cause backups in sewer mains and laterals and damage sewer pumps.

2. How does the town collect and treat our sewage?

Hillsborough's sewer collection system consists of more than 90 miles of sanitary sewer pipe. It is known as a satellite system because the town's wastewater is sent to treatment plants operated by the cities of Burlingame and San Mateo.

3. What are the consequences of a sewer overflow?

Sewer overflows present not only a public health concern, but can compromise local waterways. When the downstream treatment plants become overloaded during heavy rains, it can lead to unpermitted discharges of wastewater into San Francisco Bay. Hillsborough and other communities in the Bay Area are working to maintain and upgrade their sewer laterals, mains, and treatment plans to protect our water resources.

A report on the Alternatives for Sanitary Sewer Capital Improvements was presented to the Hillsborough City Council in April 2008.

For more information, visit the Sewer Smart website.

4. What can I do to prevent sewer backups in the town?

Proper disposal of all materials can help prevent backups and assist town crews in maintaining sewer lines. Residents can also maintain their sewer laterals and have them inspected periodically. If you plan to plant trees in your yard, make sure you know where your sewer lateral is located and avoid planting trees near a lateral. Roots are the most common cause of damage to laterals. The town will assist you in locating your sewer lateral.

5. What can I put in the toilet or drain?

Residents should avoid putting grease or eggshells in their sinks or garbage disposals. Grease is a major cause of sewer stoppages and eggshells do not decompose and can clog pipes and pumps.

The only thing that should be flushed down the toilet is toilet paper. Other items, such as feminine hygiene products, wrappers, baby wipes, and Swiffer pads can cause backups in sewer mains and laterals and damage sewer pumps.

6. What causes sewer line backups?

Sewer lines can back up when they become clogged with materials such as grease or paper products, or when tree roots damage mains and laterals and cause excess inflow into lines. Some backups occur during wet weather when sewer flows increase dramatically and lead to sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs) within the town’s collection system. A combination of increased flows and lack of downstream treatment capacity causes the SSOs.

7. What services does the town provide?

The Public Works Department spends considerable time and resources maintaining the town’s sewer mains and trunk lines. The town provides free pop-up covers for residential sewer clean-outs that will permit sewage to flow out in the event of a blockage within your sewer lateral. Maintenance and repair of sewer laterals are the responsibility of the property owner.

8. Why does my sewer lateral require regular servicing?

A sewer lateral is the line that runs from a residence to the sewer main located in the street. In older residences, the lateral may be as old as the home itself and may require repair or replacement. If you have trees in the vicinity of your lateral, the roots may have damaged the lateral, causing backups. If you are required to have your sewer lateral serviced on a regular basis, it is an indication that it needs to be repaired or replaced. The Municipal Code requires that when a home is sold in Hillsborough, the sewer lateral must be inspected and repaired or replaced if necessary. The town can provide a list of qualified contractors for inspection or repairs.

9. What action has the town taken to resolve the capacity issues?

The town has invested significant resources to resolve capacity issues and maintain a safe sewer system:
The town is committed to having a sewer system that operates safely and in compliance with regulatory requirements. Visit the Sewer Department page for information on the Town's comprehensive plan to eliminate public sewer system overflows.
Sewer Department Web page

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