Discovery Bay
- Housing Market Reports
Walnut Creek
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Codes: 94595, 94596, 94597, 94598
Population: 69,773
Median household income: $86,845
Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce
Call the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce: (925) 934-2007
Housing Information
Housing units: 32,681
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 53.9%
Homeownership rate: 66.9%
Average persons per household: 2.18
Public School District K-12
Acalanes Union High School District
Call the Walnut Creek School District: (925) 944-6850
Call the Acalanes Union High School District: (925) 280-3900
10 Largest Employers
John Muir Health |
---|
Kaiser Permanente |
Safeway |
Nordstrom |
IHC |
United States Postal Service |
Aetna |
Macy’s |
City of Walnut Creek |
HCR Manor Care |
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Inspections – Planning & Zoning: (925) 256-3558
Business License: (925) 943-5821
Cable and/or Phone – Comcast: (800) 945-2288
Finance Department: (925) 256-3590
Fire Department – Contra Costa County Fire Protection: (925) 941-3300
Garbage – Central Contra Costa Waste Authority: (925) 603-1144
Housing Department: (925) 943-5899
Permit Department: (925) 943-5834
Planning/Zoning Department: (925) 256-3558
Police Department: (925) 943-5844
Recycling – Central Contra Costa Waste Authority: (925) 603-1144
School District – Walnut Creek School District: (925) 944-6850
Sign Location
Signs may be permitted in the public right-of-way only when adjacent to property lines in such a manner that does not interrupt the normal flow of vehicle or pedestrian traffic. Signs are prohibited in the center divider and/or traffic islands of public streets.
# of Signs Allowed
Four off-site.
Maximum Sign Height
Three feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Four square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
No requirements.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Signs may be displayed only on weekends, holidays, and broker tour days, between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., during the period when the property is available for public showing. Signs shall be removed after each day of showing.
Contact Information
Planning Department: (925) 256-3558
Municipal Code
Weatherization Disclosure Requirements
Every seller of a residential dwelling building containing one through four dwelling units shall provide to all prospective buyers of the dwelling, on an approved standardized form, written information on whether all of the following energy saving devices exist on or in each dwelling unit:
All accessible attic space above living area is insulated, and if so, the thermal resistance (R) value (as defined in Section 2-5302 of Title 24 of the California Administrative Code, as amended or re-codified from time to time) of the insulation material;
All doors and windows leading to unheated areas are weather stripped;
Hot water heater tanks are fitted with an insulation blanket or other insulation material;
All accessible shower heads have flow restrictors or low flow shower heads;
All accessible heating and cooling ducts in unheated areas are insulated;
All major joints and openings to the dwelling’s exterior, including switch plates and wall outlets, are caulked or sealed.
Every buyer of a residential dwelling containing one through four dwelling units shall submit written acknowledgment of receipt of the information to the Public Works Director, within fourteen (14) days after close of escrow or transfer of title to the property. Failure of the seller and/or buyer to comply with the provisions of this chapter shall not affect the validity of the transfer of the property.
Additional Tax Information
The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
Call Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office: (925) 957-5280
Rent Control
The City of Walnut Creek does not have a rent control ordinance.
Smoking Ordinance Multi-unit Residence
In November 2013 the City of Walnut Creek passed an ordinance that prohibits smoking in multi-unit residences (property containing two or more units) and common areas.
Contra Costa County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.0827%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website.
Union City
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Code: 94587
Population: 75,316
Median household income: $98,012
Union City Chamber of Commerce
Call the Union City Chamber of Commerce: (510) 952-9637
Housing Information
Housing units: 21,258
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 79.3%
Homeownership rate: 68.2%
Average persons per household: 3.52
Public School District K-12
New Haven Unified School District
Call the New Haven Unified School District: (510) 471-1100
10 Largest Employers
Abaxis |
---|
Ajax Custom Plastics |
American Licorice Co. |
Ariat International Inc. |
Axygen Inc. |
Blommer Chocolate Co. |
Crowne Plaza – Silicon Valley |
Emerald Packaging Co. |
Finelite Inc. |
GCM Medical & OCM |
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Division: (510) 675-5313
Business License: (510) 675-5312
Cable and/or Phone: (844) 246-9494
Cable and/or Phone: (855) 369-6101
Electricity: (800) 743-5000
Environmental Services: (510) 675-5319
Finance Department: (510) 471-3232
Fire Department: (510) 632-3473
Garbage: (510) 657-3500
Gas: (800) 743-5000
Housing Authority: (510) 675-5322
Permit Department: (510) 675-5360
Planning/Zoning Department: (510) 675-5319
Sheriff Department: (510) 675-5230
Public Works: (510) 675-5305
Recycling: (510) 657-3500
Water: (510) 668-4200
Online Resources
Union City Website
Union City Chamber of Commerce: Here
New Haven Unified School District: Here
Housing Authority of the County of Alameda: Here
East Bay Rental Housing Association: Here
U.S. Census Bureau: UnionCityQuickFacts
Sign Location
Signs are not allowed on sidewalks, street medians, public rights-of-way, public parks or other public property, or where they may interfere with vehicular or pedestrian sight distance. Signs may not be affixed to trees, utility poles, street signs or any public utility company or railroad property without the specific permission of the utility, railroad or public agency.
# of Signs Allowed
Four per property.
Maximum Sign Height
“Sandwich board” or A-Frame size.
Maximum Sign Area
“Sandwich board” or A-Frame size.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
No restrictions. Signs may not be illuminated.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Weekends, holidays, and established tour days. Signs shall not be displayed beyond the actual hours of the open house.
Contact Information
Planning Department: (510) 675-5321
Municipal Code
Large Vehicle Parking
In a residential zone no large vehicle or non-motorized vehicle shall be parked or left standing in any part of a front yard which is not a driveway or approved extension. No large vehicle or non-motorized vehicle shall be used as an accessory structure and at no time may the parked or stored large vehicle or non-motorized vehicle be occupied or used for living, sleeping, or housekeeping purposes. No large vehicle or non-motorized vehicle shall be used for storage of goods, material, or equipment other than those items required for its intended purpose. “Large vehicle” means any vehicle exceeding the following dimensions: six feet in height and twenty feet in length; or, eight and one half feet in width.
Energy Efficiency Program Financing – Property Assessed Clean Energy (“PACE”)
financing is available to property owners engaging in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and water conservation upgrades to buildings. PACE financing is attached to the home, repaid through the property tax bill, and is transferred to subsequent owners until paid off. Berkeley participates in the CaliforniaFIRST Program, CSCDA Open PACE, HERO Residential, HERO Commercial, and PACE Funding for residential and/or commercial properties. Information about these programs is available at: PACE Nation or Open PACE or at Hero Program
Landmark and Historic Preservation
All sellers of condominium units are required to disclose to prospective buyers respectively whether smoking is permitted in the unit and the smoking policy for the complex.
Landmark and Historical Preservation Ordinance
Call the Planning Department: (510) 471-3232
Flood Zones
Properties in Union City may be situated in a potential flood zone.
Call the Department of Public Works: (510) 675-5310
Fault Lines
An earthquake fault line does run through an area of Union City.
Call the Department of Public Works: (510) 675-5308
Mello-Roos Tax and Special Assessment Districts
There are assessments for landscaping and lighting, school bonds, etc. Residential development located between Alvarado Niles Road and Mission Boulevard is located in a Community Facilities District (CFD).
Call Administrative Services: (510) 272-3787
Additional Tax Information
The Alameda County Assessor Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
For more information call: (510) 272-3787
Rent Control
The Union City does not have a rent control ordinance. However, there is a Mobile Home Rent Stabilization Ordinance.
Mobile Home Rent Review Ordinance
Business License Fee on Rental Property
Every person engaged in the business of renting dwelling units located in the City for residential or commercial use, as an owner leasing to another person or as a lessee or sub-lessee subleasing to another person, shall pay an annual business license fee as established annually by City Council resolution.
Call Administrative Services: (510) 675-5312
Smoking Ban in Rental Complex
Smoking is prohibited in all rental complex (2+ units) common areas (enclosed and unenclosed). As of February 23, 2012 smoking in any rental complex unit, including balconies and patios, is prohibited. Rental agreements must include a clause providing it is a material breach to of the agreement to for the tenant or any other permission to engage in smoking in the unit or common areas.
Smoking Ordinance Rental Units
Dog Licenses
Every dog owner must license their dog which is four months or older. This license must be renewed annually. For more information visit: UnionCityPetLicensing
Type/Term 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year
Unsterilized $29.00 $39.00 $46.00
Unsterilized with penalty* $43.00 $52.00 $59.00
Sterilized $14.00 $20.00 $23.00
Sterilized with penalty* $27.00 $33.00 $37.00
Penalty rates apply if license renewal unpaid within 30 days of due date.
Senior Citizen (60+) Discount: 10%
Change of owner, address, lost tag: $11
Alameda County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.2259%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Alameda County property tax bill, visit Alameda County Assessor and follow these instructions.
San Ramon
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Codes: 94582, 94583
Population: 75,931
Median household income: $142,718
Call the San Ramon Chamber of Commerce: (925) 242-0600
Housing Information
Housing units: 26,222
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 74%
Homeownership rate: 70.9%
Average persons per household: 3.02
Public School District K-12
San Ramon Valley Unified School District
Call the San Ramon Valley Unified School District: (925) 552-5500
10 Largest Employers
Chevron USA Inc. |
---|
Bank of the West |
AT&T/Pacific Bell |
Robert Half International Inc. |
Accenture |
PG&E |
General Electric Company |
San Ramon Regional Medical Center |
Primed Management Consulting |
Marriott |
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Inspections: (925) 973-2587
Business License: (925) 973-2510
Cable and/or Phone – AT&T: (800) 310-2355
Cable and/or Phone – Comcast: (800) 945-2288
Electricity – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Finance Department: (925) 973-2609
Fire Department – San Ramon Valley Fire Protection: (925) 838-6600
Garbage – Waste Management: (925) 837-3356
Gas – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Housing Department – Contra Costa Housing Authority: (925) 957-8000
Permit Department: (925) 973-2574
Planning/Zoning Department: (925) 973-2560
Police Department: (925) 973-2700
Public Works: (925) 973-2800
Recycling – Waste Management: (925) 837-3356
School District – San Ramon Valley Unified School District: (925) 552-5500
Sewer – Central Contra Costa Sanitary District: (925) 228-9500
Water – Dublin-San Ramon Services District: (925) 828-0515
Water – EBMUD: (866) 403-2683
Sign Location
One sign per direction at any intersection per real estate company regardless of the number of listings located in that direction. No more than a total of 8 off-site directional signs at major arterial/collector street intersections are permitted provided that motorist visibility is not obstructed. Signs on secondary or residential street intersections shall be limited to a maximum combined total of four directional signs provided motorist visibility is not obstructed. Signs are to be placed behind sidewalks and out of the public right-of-way. Signs on fences, utility poles or walls are not permitted.
# of Signs Allowed
One on-site.
Maximum Sign Height
Three feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Six square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
Signs must be “A-Frame” style and designed to include the directional arrows. Stick signs are strictly prohibited.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Weekends; must be removed no later than sunset Sunday. Thursdays and Fridays between the hours of 9:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. for broker’s tour.
Contact Information
Building and Safety Services: (925) 973-2580
Municipal Code
Recreational Vehicles
The San Ramon Zoning Ordinance requires Recreational Vehicles (RV) be stored or parked within a side or rear yard and located behind a seven-foot fence and will not be required to be registered with the City of San Ramon Planning Services Division.
Residents who have parked their RV on their property in the front yard setback area prior to 2006 may continue to store them parked on a paved surface within the front yard setback provided that all other zoning ordinance requirements are met.
Call the Planning Department: (925) 973-2560
Mello-Roos Tax and Special Assessment Districts
Several districts are funded through the collection of special assessments from property owners within the City. Boundaries for these assessment districts are available from the Finance Department
Call the Finance Department: (925) 973-2609
Additional Tax Information
The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
Call Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office: (925) 957-5280
Rent Control
The City of San Ramon does not have a rent control ordinance.
Flood Control Program
The City of San Ramon assists all property owners by participating in the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA’s) Community Rating System (CRS) program. The CRS program is a voluntary incentive program that recognizes and encourages community floodplain management activities that exceed the minimum National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) requirements. As a result of the City’s participation in this program, private property owners benefit with a discount on their private property flood insurance premiums. As part of this program, each year Engineering staff sends notices to flood zone property owners located within areas designated as Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA’s). These areas are designated by FEMA through a Flood Insurance Study (FIS) and mapped on a Flood Rate Insurance Map (FIRM). Lenders may require that residents carry flood insurance if your building is located in a SFHA. Residents in or near a SFHA who are not required to do so should also consider obtaining flood insurance, and will benefit from a similar discount as well.
Call the City’s Engineering Services Department: (925) 973-2670
Geologic Hazard Abatement
The Geologic Hazard Abatement District No.1990-01 (GHAD) is an independent governmental organization which was formed for the purpose of preventing, mitigating, abating, and controlling geological hazards. The GHAD boundaries include the West Branch area, located at Crow Canyon Road and Dougherty Road, Old Ranch Summit, and the Dougherty Valley totaling approximately 2,767 acres of open space. Funding for the GHAD is obtained through an annual assessment on properties located within the GHAD boundaries.
Call the Senior Administrative Analyst: (925) 973-2653
Contra Costa County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.0937%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website.
San Pablo
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Codes: 94803, 94805, 94806
Population: 29,139
Median household income: $43,506
Call the San Pablo Chamber of Commerce: (510) 234-2067
Housing Information
Housing units: 9,571
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 58.3%
Homeownership rate: 45.8%
Average persons per household: 3.3
Public School District K-12
West Contra Costa Unified School District
Call the West Contra Costa Unified School District: (510) 231-1100
10 Largest Employers
Doctor’s Medical Center |
---|
Contra Costa College |
Casino San Pablo |
City of San Pablo |
Vale Care Center |
San Pablo Health Care Center |
Creekside Health Care Center |
West County Health Center |
Food Maxx |
Las Montanas |
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Inspections: (510) 215-3030
Business License: (510) 215-3030
Cable and/or Phone – AT&T: (510) 835-3000
Cable and/or Phone – Comcast: (800) 310-2355
Electricity – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Environmental Services: (510) 215-3060
Finance Department: (510) 215-3020
Fire Department – Contra Costa County Fire Protection: (925) 941-3300
Garbage – Richmond Sanitary Service: (510) 262-1600
Gas – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Housing Department – Contra Costa Housing Authority: (925) 957-8000
Permit Department: (510) 215-3030
Planning/Zoning Department: (510) 215-3030
Police Department: (510) 215-3130
Public Works – Engineering Department: (510) 215-3060
Recycling – Richmond Sanitary Service: (510) 262-1600
School District – West Contra Costa Unified School District: (510) 231-1100
Water – EBMUD: (866) 403-2683
Sign Location
Signs shall not be displayed on any public property, any utility pole, fence, tree or other vegetation or within any public right-of-way.
# of Signs Allowed
One.
Maximum Sign Height
Four feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Five square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
No Requirements.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Day of open house only.
Contact Information
Planning Department: (510) 215-3030
Municipal Code
Residential Health and Safety Ordinance
This program establishes the procedures for the inspection of all single and multiple-family residential rental units, and for inspection of all dwellings sold within the San Pablo city limits. This program assures that the City’s residential units comply with existing state and local building, electrical, fire and plumbing code standards, to ensure the structures are safe for occupancy, and housing stock is maintained to acceptable standards.
Health and Safety Inspections of Rental Property
Call for Additional Information: (510) 215-3034
Additional Tax Information
The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
Call Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office: (925) 957-5280
Rent Control
The City of San Pablo does not have a rent control ordinance.
Business License Requirement
Owners of apartment buildings are required by the City of San Pablo to have a business license.
Call the Development Services Department: (510) 215-3030
Contra Costa County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
San Lorenzo
- Community Overview
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
San Lorenzo
Zip Code: 94580
Population: 24,790
Sign Location
Two signs permitted per lot, six square feet maximum area per sign.
# of Signs Allowed
Two signs per lot.
Maximum Sign Height
No restrictions.
Maximum Sign Area
Six square feet maximum area per sign.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
It is unlawful to place an open house sign in the median. Signs may not be illuminated.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
No restrictions, however the Alameda County Planning Department recommends placing and removing open house signs the same day as the property is being held open.
Contact Information
Planning Department: (510) 670-5400
Municipal Code
Aircraft Noise
There are several airports in and around Alameda County that may create a certain level of noise and have flight patterns subject to change. Airport information:
Livermore Airport – 636 Terminal Circle, Livermore, CA
Meadowlark Field Airport- 4300 Greenville Road, Livermore, CA 94550
Hayward Executive Airport – 20301 Skywest Drive, Hayward, CA
Little Hands Airport – 18320 Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon, CA
Oakland International – Airport 1 Airport Drive, Oakland, CA
Call the Livermore Airport: (925) 960-8220
Call the Meadowlark Field Airport: (925) 606-1536
Call the Hayward Executive Airport: (510) 293-8678
Call the Little Hands Airport: (415) 837-8981
Call the Oakland International Airport: (510) 563-3300
Flood/Fire/Seismic
Portions of Unincorporated areas of Alameda County are located in flood, fire, and/or seismic zones.
Call for Flood Information: (510) 670-5480
Call for Fire Information: (510) 670-5853
Call for Seismic Information: (510) 464-7900
Tree Ordinance
The County Tree Ordinance requires property owners planning to perform any of the following activities to obtain an approved permit from the Alameda County Public Works Agency: Pruning/ Trimming of branches over one (1) inch in diameter (permits are not required for minor pruning of branches one (1″) inch in diameter or less), planting or removing a tree.
Watercourse Protection
Every person owning property through which a watercourse passes, or said person’s lessee or tenant, shall keep and maintain that part of the watercourse within said property reasonably free of trash, debris, excessive vegetation and other obstacles which would pollute, contaminate or significantly retard the flow of water through the watercourse; shall maintain existing privately owned structures within or adjacent to a watercourse, so that such structures will not become a hazard to the use, function or physical integrity of the watercourse; and shall not remove healthy bank vegetation beyond that actually necessary for said maintenance or other maintenance specified in Section 13.12.190C of this chapter, nor remove said vegetation in such a manner as to increase the vulnerability of the watercourse to erosion.
Watercourse Protection Ordinance
Real Estate Developer and Rehabilitation of Real Estate
Every person engaged in the business of developing or rehabilitating and selling real property in which said person has equity, interest or title, and not specifically taxed by Section 3.04.350 or other provisions of this chapter, shall pay a business tax of one dollar and twenty-five cents ($1.25) for each thousand dollars ($1,000.00) of permit value for building permits obtained for work engaged in at sites within the unincorporated areas of the county.
Real Estate Rehabilitation Ordinance
Sidewalk Repair Program
The Sidewalk Repair Program applies only to single-family residential units in the following five county communities within County Planning Area 2: Ashland, Castro Valley/Fairmont, Cherryland, Unincorporated Hayward/Fairview, and San Lorenzo/Royal Sunset.
Funded through Measure B funds, this program will reimburse 50% of the sidewalk repair cost per property (or up to $750, whichever is less) for sidewalk-related repairs to the frontage of a single family residential parcel within Planning Area 2. Homeowners residing in San Lorenzo may be eligible for additional assistance through Redevelopment funds.
Call Public Works for More Information: (510) 670-5500
Flood Benefit Assessment
The Alameda County Flood Control and Water Conservation District levies benefit assessments to help finance flood control operations. These assessments are proportionate to the runoff from each parcel of land. The program applies to all Alameda County with the exception of the Cities of Albany, Berkeley, Alameda, Piedmont, and the Zone 7 area east of the hills (Livermore-Amador Valley).
Call Assessor’s Office for More Information: (510) 272-3787
Additional Tax Information
The Alameda County Assessor Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments.
Rent Control
The County of Alameda has a rent control ordinance for mobile home parks. The Ordinance specifies the maximum space rental increase cannot exceed 5% annually unless the Board of Supervisors approves a request for a higher increase.
Business License Requirements
You must obtain a business license from Alameda County only if you are conducting any type of business, including leasing residential and commercial property, or your business is based in an unincorporated area of Alameda County.
Alameda County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.1283%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Alameda County property tax bill, visit Alameda County Assessor and follow these instructions.
San Leandro
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Codes: 94577, 94578, 94579
Population: 90,553
Median household income: $64,065
San Leandro Chamber of Commerce
Call the San Leandro Chamber of Commerce: (510) 317-1400
Housing Information
Housing units: 32,419
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 68.9%
Homeownership rate: 56.5%
Average persons per household: 2.78
Public School District K-12
San Leandro Unified School District
San Lorenzo Unified School District
Call the San Leandro Unified School District: (510) 667-3500
Call the San Lorenzo Unified School District: (510) 317-4600
10 Largest Employers
ACCO Engineering |
---|
Alameda County Industries |
City of San Leandro |
Coca-Cola Bottling Company |
Costco Wholesale |
Ghirardelli Chocolate Company |
Kaiser Hospital |
Kindred Hospital |
MV Public Transportation |
OSI Soft |
PCC Structurals |
Paramedics Plus |
San Leandro Unified School District |
Government & Community Contact Information
Alameda County Industries (ACI): (510) 613-8710
Building Regulations Division: (510) 577-3405
Division of Building & Safety: (510) 577-3405
Electricity: (800) 743-5000
Fire Department: (925) 833-3473
Gas: (800) 743-5000
Police Department: (510) 577-2740
Public Works Department: (510) 577-3440
Rent Review Board: (510) 577-6004
School District (San Leandro): (510) 667-3530
School District (San Lorenzo): (510) 317-4600
Waste Management: (510) 357-7282
Water: (510) 613-8710
Sign Location
Must be installed on private property with permission of owner.
# of Signs Allowed
Five per property.
Maximum Sign Height
Five feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Five square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
Agent or firm name. Signs may not be illuminated. Type of signs allowed are mobile, a-frame, and portable.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Any day from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Contact Information
Planning Department: (510) 577-3325
Zoning Code
Airport Noise
Some areas of San Leandro are in close proximity to the Oakland International Airport.
Flood, Mudslide or Earthquake Areas
Properties in the City of San Leandro may be situated in areas that are subject to flooding, mudslides and/or earthquakes.
Call Division of Building and Safety: (510) 577-3405
Fire Hazard
San Leandro has designated areas that are “very high fire severity zones.”
For more information call the Fire Department: (510) 632-3473
Energy Efficiency Program Financing – Property Assessed Clean Energy (“PACE”)
PACE financing is available to property owners engaging in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and water conservation upgrades to buildings. PACE financing is attached to the home, repaid through the property tax bill, and is transferred to subsequent owners until paid off. Pleasanton participates in the CaliforniaFIRST Program. Information is available at: here or here.
Mello Roos Tax
Some properties in and around the Cherrywood Development have a Mello Roos tax.
Call the Alameda County Tax Assessor: (510) 272-3787
Additional Tax Information
The Alameda County Assessor Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
Call the Alameda County Tax Assessor: (510) 272-3787
Rent Control
The City of San Leandro does not have rent control.
Rent Review Board
The City of San Leandro has established a voluntary Rent Review Board that will review any complaints of rent increase over 10% in a year and for buildings of three or more units.
Call the Rent Review Board: (510) 577-6004
Business License Requirement
The City of San Leandro requires a business license for those dealing with residential and commercial real estate rentals.
Call the Business License Office: (510) 577-3392
Dog Licenses
Anyone who owns, harbors or has in his/her possession or control any dog over four (4) months of age in the City shall pay a license fee. Find details at SanLeandroPetLicensing
Type/Term 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year
Unsterilized $20.00 N/A $40.00
Sterilized $10.00 N/A $20.00
Alameda County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$7.10
per each thousand
Local Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$6.00
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.1506%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Alameda County property tax bill, visit Alameda County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Richmond
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Codes: 94530, 94564, 94801, 94803, 94804, 94805, 94806, 94850
Population: 107,597
Median household income: $55,102
Call the Richmond Chamber of Commerce: (510) 234-3512
Housing Information
Housing units: 39,922
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 62.6%
Homeownership rate: 50.5%
Average persons per household: 2.87
Public School District K-12
West Contra Costa Unified School District
Call the West Contra Costa Unified School District: (510) 231-1100
10 Largest Employers
Chevron Refinery |
---|
West Contra Costa Unified School District |
Social Security Administration |
U.S. Postal Service |
Contra Costa County |
City of Richmond |
The Permanente Medical Group |
Kaiser Foundation Hospitals |
Bio-Rad Laboratories |
Michael Stead Auto Depot and Sales |
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Inspections: (510) 620-6868
Business License – Finance Department. (Business License Unit): ( 510) 620-6742
Cable and/or Phone – Comcast: (510) 490-8445
Cable and/or Phone – SBC: (800) 310-2355
Electricity – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Finance Department: (510) 620-6740
Fire Department: (510) 307-8031
Garbage – Richmond Sanitary Service: (510) 262-1640
Gas – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Housing Department – Richmond Housing Authority: (510) 621-1300
Permit Department: (510) 620-6868
Planning/Zoning Department: (510) 620-6706
Police Department: (510) 233-1214
Public Works: (510) 231-3008
Recycling – Richmond Sanitary Service: (510) 262-7100
School District – West Contra Costa Unified School District: (510) 231-1100
Water – EBMUD: (866) 403-2683
Sign Location
Signs must not interfere with, obstruct, or misdirect traffic or pedestrian movement.
# of Signs Allowed
Six.
Maximum Sign Height
Three feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Six square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
No restrictions.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Saturdays, Sundays and holiday between 10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Contact Information
Planning Department: (510) 620-6706
Municipal Code
Sewer Lateral Compliance in the City of Richmond
Properties in the City of Richmond may be serviced by Richmond Sanitation District, Stege Sanitation District or the West County Wastewater District.
Sewer Lateral Compliance – Richmond Sanitation District
Whenever a property is to be sold or there is a transfer of title, a sewer Certificate of Lateral Compliance must be obtained. The procedures herein must be followed by the property owner to obtain a Certificate of Lateral Compliance.
Certificate of Lateral Compliance
Call City of Richmond Wastewater Department: (510) 307-8091
Sewer Lateral Program – Stege Sanitation District
Effective October 18, 2011, the EBMUD Regional Ordinance shall govern within Stege Sanitary District’s service area as it relates to sewer lateral program compliance. EBMUD shall implement and manage all aspects of this program including record keeping, maintaining written procedures for verification testing, witnessing all verification testing and issuing Compliance Certificates to compliant private sewer laterals.
Property owners are required to obtain a “Certificate of Compliance” for their sewer laterals upon transfer of title (sale of property), significant remodel of $100,000 or more, or increase in water meter size. To obtain a Certificate of Compliance, the property owner must contact EBMUD directly to schedule an inspection. In addition, the property owner must also obtain a sewer permit from Stege Sanitary District for any sewer related construction work.
Call Stege Sanitation District: (510) 524-4668
Sewer Lateral Testing/Compliance – West County Wastewater District
All building sewers or sewer lateral, including but not limited to those serving residential, multiple residential and commercial properties connected to the District’s sewer system shall be cleaned and tested, at the property owner’s expense prior to the close of escrow upon a sale or other transfer of the property.
Call West County Wastewater District: (925) 222-6700
Backwater Overflow Prevention Device – West County Wastewater District (WCWD)
No person shall sell, transfer or convey any improved real property that is connected to the WCWD sewer system without (1) first installing or confirming the presence of a sewer cleanout in a location and of a type approved by the WCWD’s District Engineer and (2) without first installing or confirming the presence of a backwater overflow prevention device of a type and in the manner prescribed by the WCWD and any permit conditions imposed by the WCWD. The property owner shall obtain a signed repair permit confirming a proper sewer cleanout and backwater overflow prevention device or a certificate of compliance with this Ordinance from the WCWD’s District Engineer prior to the close of escrow of any sale, transfer or conveyance of any improved real property that is connected to the WCWD sewer system.
Call West County Wastewater District: (510) 222-6700
Additional Tax Information
The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
Call Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office: (925) 957-5280
Rent Control
All rental units in the City of Richmond are subject eviction protection. Rent control applies to all units except for single family homes, condominiums and units exempt from rent control per the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act. More information about eviction protection and rent control is available here.
Residential Rental Inspection Program
All owners of three or more rental dwelling units are subject to Residential Rental Inspection Program except those units that are exempt per Richmond Municipal Code Section 6.40.090, including:
Residential rental housing units that are subsidized by federal, state, or local government, and/or
Newly constructed residential rental units for a period of five (5) years
Note: The City of Richmond is proposing to modify the existing ordinance to expand the Residential Rental Inspection Program to include all rental property owners (with the exceptions above). Additional information will be mailed to rental property owners that will be affected by this change.
Richmond Rental Inspection Program
Call the Richmond Rental Inspection Program: (510) 781-5174
Business License Requirement
All owners of rental property are required to have a current business license for each rental property that they own and the business license(s) must be renewed annually.
Richmond Business License Resources
Call the Finance Department – Business License Unit: (510) 620-6742
Contra Costa County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Local Transfer Tax*
(The new local transfer tax rate is based on a sliding scale)
For properties with a full value of $100 to $999,999 the rate is $7.00 per $1,000 – or 0.70%
For properties with a full value between $1,000,000 and $2,999,999 the rate is $12.50 per $1,000 – or 1.25%
For properties with a full value between $3,000,000 and $9,999,999 the rate is $25.00 per $1,000 – or 2.50%
For properties with a full value more than $10,000,000 the rate is $30 per $1,000 – or 3.00%.
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Contra Costa County property tax bill, visit Contra Costa County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Pleasanton
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Code: 94588
Population: 82,267
Median household income: $142,412
Pleasanton Chamber of Commerce
Call the Pleasanton Chamber of Commerce: (925) 846-5858
Housing Information
Housing units: 26,053
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 75.7%
Homeownership rate: 68.6%
Average persons per household: 2.82
Public School District K-12
Pleasanton Unified School District
Call the Pleasanton Unified School District: (925) 462-5500
10 Largest Employers
Kaiser Foundation Hospitals |
---|
Safeway, Inc. |
Oracle America, Inc. |
Workday |
Pleasanton Unified School District |
Macy’s |
Valley Care Medical Center |
Clorox Services Company |
State Fund |
FMC |
Thoratec |
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Department: (925) 931-5300
Building, permits and Inspections: (925) 931-5300
Electricity: (800) 743-5000
Fire Department: (925) 454-2361
Garbage: (925) 846-2042
Gas: (800) 743-5000
Planning and Zoning Department: (925) 743-5000
Police Department: (925) 931-5100
Public Works: (925) 931-5650
School District: (925) 462-5500
Water: (925) 931-5425
Sign Location
No signs shall be placed within median strip, center divider, roadway island, on public property, rights of way, public easements adjacent to streets, within five feet of a hydrant, fire call box or mail box. Signs are allowed on sidewalks as long as they do not obstruct pedestrian traffic.
# of Signs Allowed
A total of four signs per property: one on-site open house and three off-site open house signs.
Maximum Sign Height
Three feet.
Maximum Sign Area
24”x18”
Sign Text & Other Requirements
No restrictions on sign text. No riders, tags, signs, streamers, balloons. Arrows may be part of main sign design. Must be A-frame signs, no stake signs are permitted. Improperly placed open house signs on public property may be removed without warning and imposed. Confiscated signs result in $12 per sign storage fee. Repeated violations may result in fines of $100/sign.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Monday through Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. during Standard Time. Monday through Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. during Daylight Saving Time.
Contact Information
Planning Department: (925) 931-5600
Code enforcement: (925) 931-5620
Municipal Code
Smoke Detectors
No residential property in Pleasanton may be sold unless the seller either installs or has installed smoke detectors in the following locations:
On the ceiling or wall outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of bedrooms.
In each room used for sleeping purposes.
In each story within a dwelling unit, including basements but not including crawl spaces and uninhabitable attics.
In enclosed common stairwells of apartment complexes and other multiple-dwelling complexes.
In a Group R-3.1 occupancy, in addition to the above, smoke alarms shall be provided throughout the habitable areas of the dwelling unit except kitchens.
This requirement may be met by the seller placing into escrow sufficient funds for the buyer to pay for the installation of smoke detectors. Details regarding the installation of smoke detectors are found in Title 20 (Buildings and Construction) of Municipal Code Chapter 20.08 (Building Code) Section 907.2.10.1.2.
Energy Efficiency Program Financing – Property Assessed Clean Energy (“PACE”)
PACE financing is available to property owners engaging in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and water conservation upgrades to buildings. PACE financing is attached to the home, repaid through the property tax bill, and is transferred to subsequent owners until paid off. Pleasanton participates in the CaliforniaFIRST Program. Information is available at: here or here.
Smoking in Multi-Family Rental Apartments
In September, 2017, the City Council adopted an ordinance to restrict smoking in multi-family rental apartments. PleasantonSmokingOrdinance
Spark Arresters
Spark Arresters: Existing dwelling units shall be retrofitted with a spark arrestor under the following circumstances:
Upon notice from the city.
Upon re-roofing.
Upon resale of the dwelling unit.
Upon issuance of a building permit for alterations, repairs or additions in excess of $1,000.
The city also requires any real property professional representing a seller to notify the seller of their obligation to comply with this requirement. Please note that these requirements are subject to change.
Call the City of Pleasanton Building Department: (925) 931-5300
Downtown Historic Resource Policy
Residential buildings built before 1942 and located downtown may be subject to Historic Preservation rules which may limit significant architectural changes and demolition. During the winter of 2014 the City is studying approximately 200 residential buildings to determine which may be subject to these restrictions.
Call Senior Planner: (925) 931-5613
Flood Zone
There are properties within Pleasanton that may be in a high risk flood zone. To determine if a property is in a flood go to FEMA and enter the property address.
Call the Public Works Department: (925) 931-5650
Fault Lines
The City of Pleasanton is located in a seismically active region that contains several major active faults.
Call the Planning Department: (925) 931-5600
Fire Zones
Properties within Pleasanton may be in a high fire zone. For more information contact the Fire Department: (925) 454-2361
Mello-Roos Tax and Special Assessment Districts
There are some city assessments that are determined by assessor’s parcel number. These may include but are not limited to lighting and landscaping assessment, fire assessment, emergency medical service assessment, clean water assessment, and school districts. Additional taxes may include Mello Roos Community Facilities tax or 1915 Bond Assessment.
Additional Tax Information
The Alameda County Assessor Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
Rent Control
The City of Pleasanton does not have a rent control ordinance.
Dog Licenses
Every dog owner must license their dog which is four months or older. This license must be renewed annually. Find details at: PleasantonPetLicensing
Type/Term 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year
Unsterilized $7.00 $13.00 $18.00
Sterilized $3.50 $6.50 $9.00
Senior Citizen (62+) Discount Available Replacement tags – $5.00
Alameda County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.0873%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Alameda County property tax bill, visit Alameda County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Pleasant Hill
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Code: 94523
Population: 34,395
Median household income: $93,476
Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce
Call the Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce: (925) 687-0700
Housing Information
Housing units: 14,321
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 68.5%
Homeownership rate: 59.9%
Average persons per household: 2.4
Public School District K-12
Mount Diablo Unified School District
Call the Mount Diablo Unified School District: (925) 682-8000
10 Largest Employers
Mt. Diablo Unified School District |
---|
Contra Costa County Fire Protection |
Safeway |
Target |
Yandell Truckaway |
Nightingale of Contra Costa |
John F. Kennedy University |
Hospice of the East Bay |
Irvin Deutscher Family YMCA |
Keep in Touch |
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Inspections – Building Division: (925) 671-5200
Business License: (925) 671-5234
Cable and/or Phone – Astound: (800) 427-8686
Cable and/or Phone – AT&T: (800) 310-2355
Cable and/or Phone – Comcast: (800) 945-2288
Electricity – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Finance Department: (925) 671-5231
Fire Department – Contra Costa County Fire Protection: (925-941-3300
Garbage – Allied Waste: (925) 685-4711
Gas – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Housing Department – Contra Costa County Housing Services: (925) 219-3325
Permit Department – Planning Division: (925) 671-5209
Police Department: (925) 288-4600
Public Works – Engineering Division: (925) 671-5264
Public Works – Maintenance Division: (925) 671-4646
Recycling – Allied Waste: (925) 671-5806
School District – Mt. Diablo Unified School District: (925) 682-8000
Water – EBMUD: (866) 403-2683
Sign Location
Only one open house sign is allowed per intersection regardless of the number of open houses in the direction indicated by the sign. No sign shall be located on a wall or fence, in the public right-of-way, on a utility pole, or on a public street, median strip, traffic island, public landscaped area, sidewalk or private property without permission of the owner.
# of Signs Allowed
Total of four signs per property. One on-site and up to three off-site open house signs.
Maximum Sign Height
Three feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Four square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
No requirements.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Weekends and broker/agent tour days.
Contact Information
Planning Department: (925) 671-5209
Municipal Code
Weatherization Disclosure Requirement
Every seller of a residential dwelling building containing one through four dwelling units shall provide to all prospective buyers of the dwelling, on an approved standardized form, written information on whether all of the following energy saving devices exist on or in each dwelling unit:
All accessible attic space above living area is insulated, and if so, the thermal resistance (R) value (as defined in Section 2-5302 of Title 24 of the California Administrative Code, as amended or re-codified from time to time) of the insulation material;
All doors and windows leading to unheated areas are weather stripped;
Hot water heater tanks are fitted with an insulation blanket or other insulation material;
All accessible shower heads have flow restrictors or low flow shower heads;
All accessible heating and cooling ducts in unheated areas are insulated;
All major joints and openings to the dwelling’s exterior, including switch plates and wall outlets, are caulked or sealed.
Every buyer of a residential dwelling containing one through four dwelling units shall submit written acknowledgment of receipt of the information to the Public Works Director, within fourteen (14) days after close of escrow or transfer of title to the property. Failure of the seller and/or buyer to comply with the provisions of this chapter shall not affect the validity of the transfer of the property.
Mt. Diablo Unified School District Mello-Roos District
Areas of Pleasant Hill are in the Mt. Diablo school district, which has a Mello Roos parcel tax to fund the Mt. Diablo School District. Homeowners living in areas served by the Mt. Diablo School District who are age 65 or older (by January 1 of the current year) may apply for an exemption to the $67 per year. Exemptions must be filed with the Mt. Diablo School District by June 1 of the current tax year.
Call for an exemption form: (925) 682-8000
Additional Tax Information
The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
Call Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office: (925) 957-5280
Rent Control
The City of Pleasant Hill does not have a rent control ordinance.
Business License and Rental Tax Fee
Owners of residential rental property in Pleasant Hill are required to have a business license. Additionally, the City collects a tax based on the number of units rented.
Pleasant Hill Business License
Call the Business License Department: (925) 671-5234
Contra Costa County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.1363%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Contra Costa County property tax bill, visit Contra Costa County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Pittsburg
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Codes: 94565
Population: 72,141
Median household income: $67.392
Call the Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce: (925) 432-7301
Housing Information
Housing units: 21,126
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 80.9%
Homeownership rate: 59.8%
Average persons per household: 3.28
Public School District K-12
Pittsburg Unified School District
Call the Pittsburg Unified School District: (925) 473-2300
10 Largest Employers
Pittsburg Unified School District |
---|
USS – Posco Industries |
Los Medanos Community College |
Dow Chemical Company |
Walmart |
City of Pittsburg |
Angelica Corporation (Laundry) |
Mi Pueblo Foods |
WinCo Foods |
Ramar Foods |
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Inspections – Development Services/Building Division: (925) 252-4910
Business License – Finance Departmentartment: (925) 252-6969
Cable and/or Phone – AT&T: (925) 753-1100
Electricity – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Environmental Services – RES Environmental Services, Inc.(: 925) 432-8555
Finance Department: (925) 252-6969
Fire Department – Contra Costa County Fire Protection: (925) 941-3300
Garbage – Pittsburg Disposal Service: (925) 432-6262
Gas – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Housing Department – Housing Authority: (925) 252-4830
Permit Department – Development Services/Building Division: (925) 252-4910
Planning/Zoning Department: (925) 252-4920
Police Department: (925) 252-4980
Public Works: (925) 252-4004
Recycling – Mount Diablo Recycling: (925) 682-4518
School District – Pittsburg Unified School District: (925) 473-2300
School District – Antioch Unified School District: (925) 779-7500
School District – Mt. Diablo Unified School District: (925) 682-8000
Water – City of Pittsburg: (925) 252-4940
Sign Location
Sign must be placed at a location no further from the property than the closest intersection of a major thoroughfare. Sign may not be placed in or on the street, center divider strip or traffic island, sidewalk, public sign post, traffic signal, utility pole, tree, shrub or rock.
# of Signs Allowed
N/A
Maximum Sign Height
Four feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Four square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
Limited to the name of the developer, real estate broker, the seller, renter, or lessor, an address and telephone number and whether the property is for sale, rent, or lease.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Weekend period from noon Friday through noon Monday, during holidays, and during special showings approved by the planning director.
Contact Information
Planning Department: (925) 252-4920
Municipal Code
Additional Tax Information
The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments.
Call Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office: (925) 957-5280
Landscaping and Lighting District
The Pittsburg Landscaping and Lighting Assessment District provides for the levy and collection of assessment to pay for the following types of improvements: streetlights, street trees, parks and landscaping.
Community Facility Districts
Within the City of Pittsburg there are several Community Facility Districts. Through assessments, the Districts help to provide funds necessary to construct or provide a variety of public improvements or public services in new development areas. Some of the services include street, sewer, water or utility improvements; lighting and landscaping; or police protection. Some of these districts have a limited life span and are terminated once the improvements are fully funded.
Geological Hazard Abatement District
Properties located in Southwest Pittsburg Geologic Hazard Abatement District II are subject of a special assessment. The purpose of the GHAD is to provide a means of financing necessary slope maintenance to reduce the risk of landslides in the City’s hillside areas, to maintain certain drainage basins, and to establish a fund to help defray the cost of landslide repairs should a slide occur in the GHAD.
Rent Control
The City of Pittsburg does not have a rent control ordinance.
Rental Inspection Program
Residential rental property owners must register their property with the City of Pittsburg. The program is intended to proactively identify blighted and deteriorated housing stock. Property owners must complete an initial inspection of their property using a checklist provided by the City. Properties that do not meet minimum standards are not allowed to register until they comply.
Pittsburg Rental Inspection Program
Call the City of Pittsburg Development Department: (925) 252-4910
Contra Costa County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.1934%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Contra Costa County property tax bill, visit Contra Costa County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Pinole
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Code: 94564
Population: 19,039
Median household income: $62,256
Call the Pinole Chamber of Commerce: (510) 741-7945
Housing Information
Housing units: 7,158
Percentage of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 81%
Homeownership rate: 75.3%
Average persons per household: 2.81
Public School District K-12
West Contra Costa Unified School District
Call the West Contra Costa Unified School District: (510) 231-1100
10 Largest Employers
West Contra Costa Unified School District |
---|
Lucky/Food Maxx |
Target |
Best Buy |
Kmart |
City of Pinole |
Safeway |
Kaiser Health Center |
Trader Joe’s |
Round Table Pizza |
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Inspections: (510) 724-8912
Business License – Administrative Offices: (510) 724-9000
Cable and/or Phone – Comcast: (800) 945-2288
Cable and/or Phone – SBC: (800) 310-2355
Electricity – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Finance Department: (510) 724-9009
Fire Department: (510) 724-8970
Garbage – Richmond Sanitary Service: (510) 262-1600
Gas – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Housing Department – Martinez Housing Authority: (925) 372-7400
Permit Department: (510) 724-8912
Planning/Zoning Department: (510 724-8912
Police Department: (510) 233-1214
Public Works: (510) 724-9010
Recycling – Richmond Sanitary Service: (510) 262-1600
School District – West Contra Costa Unified School District: (510) 231-1100
Water – EBMUD: (866) 403-2683
Sign Location
Signs are prohibited from being placed on the public right of way or affixed to an element of structure on the public right of way, or located on a publicly owned tree, fence, or utility pole or otherwise posted on public property.
# of Signs Allowed
Three.
Maximum Sign Height
Four feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Four square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
No requirements.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
May be displayed between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.
Contact Information
Planning: (510) 724-8912
Municipal Code
Sanitary Sewer Lateral Program – Pinole Sanitary District
The City of Pinole’s Municipal Code 13.20 states that the property owner is responsible for the inspection and if necessary, repairs to the sewer lateral when the property is transferred (prior to close of escrow). The inspection is to be conducted by a state licensed contractor.
Sanitary Sewer Lateral Program
Sewer Lateral Testing/Compliance – West County Wastewater District
All building sewers or sewer laterals, including but not limited to those serving residential, multiple residential and commercial properties connected to the District’s sewer system shall be cleaned and tested, at the property owner’s expense prior to the close of escrow upon a sale or other transfer of the property.
Call West County Wastewater: (510) 222-6700
Weatherization Disclosure Requirement
Every seller of a residential dwelling building containing one through four dwelling units shall provide to all prospective buyers of the dwelling, on an approved standardized form, written information on whether all of the following energy saving devices exist on or in each dwelling unit:
All accessible attic space above living area is insulated, and if so, the thermal resistance (R) value (as defined in Section 2-5302 of Title 24 of the California Administrative Code, as amended or re-codified from time to time) of the insulation material;
All doors and windows leading to unheated areas are weather stripped;
Hot water heater tanks are fitted with an insulation blanket or other insulation material;
All accessible shower heads have flow restrictors or low flow shower heads;
All accessible heating and cooling ducts in unheated areas are insulated;
All major joints and openings to the dwelling’s exterior, including switch plates and wall outlets, are caulked or sealed.
Every buyer of a residential dwelling containing one through four dwelling units shall submit written acknowledgment of receipt of the information to the Public Works Director, within fourteen (14) days after close of escrow or transfer of title to the property. Failure of the seller and/or buyer to comply with the provisions of this chapter shall not affect the validity of the transfer of the property.
Weatherization Disclosure Ordinance
Additional Tax Information
The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments.
Call Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office: (925) 957-5280
Rent Control
The City of Pinole does not have a rent control ordinance.
Business License Requirement
Rental property owners in the City of Pinole must obtain a business license for each property used for rental purposes.
Business Licence Application
Rental Inspection Program
The Rental Inspection Ordinance provides that rental units in the City be inspected to meet habitability and safety standards. The intent of this Ordinance is to ensure that rental stock is maintained and compliant with City Codes.
Call the Rental Inspection Program Administrator: (510) 724-9016
Contra Costa County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.3094%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Contra Costa County property tax bill, visit Contra Costa County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Piedmont
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Code: 94610
Population: 11,201
Median household income: $202,083
Housing Information
Housing units: 3,924
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 95.8%
Homeownership rate: 91.3%
Average persons per household: 2.92
Public School District K-12
Piedmont Unified School District
Call the Piedmont Unified School District: (510) 594-2600
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Division: (510) 420-3050
Business License: (510) 420-3040
Cable and/or Phone: (844) 246-9494
Cable and/or Phone: (855) 369-6101
Electricity: (800) 743-5000
Finance Department: (510) 420-3045
Fire Department: (510) 420-3030
Garbage: (800) 320-8077
Gas: (800) 743-5000
Permit Department: (510) 420-3062
Planning/Zoning Department: (510) 420-3050
Sheriff Department: (510) 420-3000
Public Works: (510) 420-3050
Recycling: (800) 320-8077
Water: (866) 403-2683
Attached/Detached data included in Oakland Attached/Detached Reports.
Sign Location
Temporary self-supporting two-sided signs may be placed on City sidewalks so long as no such sign impedes pedestrian traffic or otherwise constitutes a safety hazard.
# of Signs Allowed
N/A
Maximum Sign Height
Four feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Four square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
Name and phone # of the broker, agent or owner/seller must on the sign.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Sundays 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Contact Information
Department of Public Works: (510) 420-3050
Municipal Code
Regional Sewer Lateral Program
The City of Piedmont requires sewer lateral inspections prior to a home being sold. Additionally, inspections also are required for remodeling projects of $100,000 or more, and when a property owner changes the size of their water meter.
This point-of-sale requirement is in response to a court order from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA is requiring the East Bay Municipal Utilities District (EBMUD) repair damaged sanitary sewer pipes to prevent untreated waste from being released into the San Francisco Bay. EBMUD is in turn passing the responsibility to individual property owners who will have to obtain a certificate from EBMUD showing their sewer laterals are not damaged and are connected properly.
Energy Efficiency Program Financing – Property Assessed Clean Energy (“PACE”)
PACE financing is available to property owners engaging in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and water conservation upgrades to buildings. PACE financing is attached to the home, repaid through the property tax bill, and is transferred to subsequent owners until paid off. Pleasanton participates in the CaliforniaFIRST Program. Information is available at: here or here.
Building Permit History
Every person who sells an interest in real property located in the City shall provide the following to a buyer at least 10 days before the close of escrow:
A Property Records Search provided by the City Public Works Department for a nominal fee established by the City Council. This report shows the building permit history for the property, including which improvements have been approved; and
A disclosure statement prepared by the Director of Public Works, outlining certain requirement concerning real property.
Call the Department of Public Works: (510) 420-3050
Sidewalk Repair Ordinance
The following conditions applying to the requirements of construction and/or repair of sidewalks and driveways within the City as more specifically set forth in other Sections of this Article V of Chapter 18 of the City Code:
In conjunction with the sale of the real property.
When the real property is developed for any use.
In conjunction with the issuance of any permit or aggregate of permits, within the year preceding the date of application, in the amount of $5,000.00 or more on the real property.
When the property owner of such real property becomes aware of an unsafe condition on such property.
When the property owner is notified by the City of an unsafe condition on such property.
Call the Department of Public Works: (510) 420-3050
Municipal Service Tax
Based on square footage of the parcel (FY 2017-2018):
Single Family Residences
0 to 4,999 sq. ft. | |
5,000 to 9,999 sq. ft. | $563 |
10,000 to 14,999 sq. ft. | $650 |
15,000 to 20,000 sq. ft. | $742 |
Over 20,000 sq. ft. | $845 |
Commercial Properties
0 to 10,000 sq. ft. | $845 |
Over 10,000 sq. ft. | $1,266 |
Multi-Family Residential: per unit | $348 |
Parcels Divided by Tax Code Area Line | $514 |
Municipal Sewer Tax
Based on square footage of the parcel (FY 2017-2018):
Single Family Residences
0 to 4,999 sq. ft. | $558 |
5,000 to 9,999 sq. ft. | $635 |
10,000 to 14,999 sq. ft. | $732 |
15,000 to 20,000 sq. ft. | $854 |
Over 20,000 sq. ft. | $1,004 |
Commercial Properties
0 to 10,000 sq. ft. | $1,004 |
Over 10,000 sq. ft. | $1,383 |
Multi-Family Residential: per unit | $465 |
Parcels Divided by Tax Code Area Line | $558 |
Hayward Fault Special Studies Zone
Piedmont is entirely outside the Hayward Fault Special Studies Zone. The fault lies approximately ¼ mile east of the city limits.
Remodel or Repair of Property
Piedmont has specific Rules and Guidelines for homeowners planning any type of exterior remodel or repair. The Design Review Guideline is available through the Building Department. Prior to the start of construction or demolition, the project applicant is required to submit a Drop Box Dumpster Application.
Call the Building Department: (510) 420-3050
Fire Hazard Zone
Certain areas in the City of Piedmont may be in a special fire zone.
Call the Fire Department: (510) 420-3032
Home Occupation Permits
The City will allow homeowners to use a portion of their residence for certain types of offices or other home occupations and a permit is required.
Call the City Clerk’s Office: (510) 420-3040
Garage Sales
A permit is required for Garage Sales in the City of Piedmont.
Business License Tax
The Business Tax is based on the gross income of any Real Estate Broker doing business in the City of Piedmont. There is a minimum of $100 or the rate is based on $2.00/thousand of gross.
Additional Tax Information
The Alameda County Assessor Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
For more information call: (510) 272-3787
Rent Control
The City of Piedmont does not have a rent control ordinance.
Business License Fee on Rental Property
An annual Business License is required March 1 of each year for residential property which is rented or leased.
Call the City Clerk: (510) 420-3040
Dog Licenses
Every person who owns, harbors or has in his/her possession or control any dog over four (4) months of age in the City shall pay a license fee. For information visit: PiedmontPetLicensing
Type/Term 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year
Unsterilized $33.00 $55.00 $77.00
Sterilized $17.00 $28.00 $38.00
Senior Citizens (62+) Pet License Discount Eligible
Lost Tag: $10 Replacement Fee
Off-leash Permit – Residents Type/Term 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year
Unsterilized $43.00 $65.00 $87.00
Sterilized $18.00 $28.00 $38.00
Alameda County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Local Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$13.00
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.0971%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Alameda County property tax bill, visit Alameda County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Orinda
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Code: 94563
Population: 18,936
Median household income: $196,607
Call the Orinda Chamber of Commerce: (925) 254-3909
Housing Information
Housing units: 6,804
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 96.3%
Homeownership rate: 90.5%
Average persons per household: 2.75
Public School District K-12
Call the Orinda Union School District: (925) 254-4901
Call the Acalanes Union High School District: (925) 280-3900
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Inspections – Lamorinda Building Inspection Office: (925) 299-0263
Cable and/or Phone – AT&T: (888) 861-2533
Cable and/or Phone – Comcast: (925) 349-3300
Electricity – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Finance Department: (925) 253-4224
Fire Department – Moraga-Orinda Fire District: (925) 258-4599
Garbage – Allied Waste: (925) 685-4716
Gas – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Permit Department – Lamorinda Building Inspection Office: (925) 299-0263
Planning/Zoning Department: (925) 253-4210
Police Department: (925) 254-6820
Public Works: (925) 253-4231
School District – Orinda Union School District: (925) 254-4901
School District – Acalanes Union High School District: (925) 935-2800
Water – EBMUD: (866) 403-2683
Sign Location
Signs may not be secured to City-owned infrastructure, including streetlights, trees, pavement, fences, mechanical equipment, utility poles or street furniture. Signs may not be located in a City-maintained landscape area.
# of Signs Allowed
No restrictions.
Maximum Sign Height
Six feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Three square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
Signs my not be illuminated.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
May displayed up to 12 hours only when the property is available for viewing.
Contact Information
Planning Department: (925) 253-4210
Municipal Code
Local Real Estate Transfer Disclosure Statement
The transferor of any residential real property in the city of Orinda shall deliver to the prospective transferee a disclosure statement required as follows:
In the case of a sale, as soon as possible before transfer of title.
In the case of transfer by a real property sales contract, as soon as possible before execution of the contract.
Orinda Local Option Disclosure
Weatherization Disclosure Requirements
Every seller of a residential dwelling building containing one through four dwelling units shall provide to all prospective buyers of the dwelling, on an approved standardized form, written information on whether all of the following energy saving devices exist on or in each dwelling unit:
All accessible attic space above the living area is insulated, and if so, the thermal resistance (R) value (as defined in Section 2-5302 of Title 24 of the California Administrative Code, as amended or recodified from time to time) of the insulation material;
All doors and windows leading to unheated areas are weather stripped;
Hot water heater tanks are fitted with an insulation blanket or other insulation material;
All accessible shower heads have flow restrictors or low flow shower heads;
All accessible heating and cooling ducts in unheated areas are insulated;
All major joints and openings to the dwelling’s exterior, including switch plates and wall outlets, are caulked or sealed.
Every buyer of a residential dwelling containing one through four dwelling units shall submit written acknowledgment of receipt of the information to the Public Works Director, within fourteen (14) days after the close of escrow or transfer of title to the property. Failure of the seller and/or buyer to comply with the provisions of this chapter shall not affect the validity of the transfer of the property.
Residential Dwelling Weatherization Disclosure
Orinda School Parcel Tax
Annual Orinda Union School Parcel Tax is $502.00
Additional Tax Information
The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments.
Call Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office: (925) 957-5280
Rent Control
The City of Orinda does not have a rent control ordinance.
Contra Costa County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.0200%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Contra Costa County property tax bill, visit Contra Costa County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Oakley
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Code: 94561
Population: 39,224
Median household income: $90,719
Call the Oakley Chamber of Commerce: (925) 625-1035
Housing Information
Housing units: 11,484
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 94.7%
Homeownership rate: 73.6%
Average persons per household: 3.37
Public School District K-12
Oakley Union Elementary School District
Call the Oakley Union Elementary School District: (925) 625-0700
10 Largest Employers
Oakley Union Elementary School District |
---|
Diamond Hills Sports Club and Spa |
Lucky |
Raley’s |
Ironhouse Sanitary District |
Foundation Constructors |
Rain 4 Rent |
Continente Nut LLC |
McDonald’s |
Burger King |
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Inspections: (925) 625-7032
Business License – Finance Department: (925) 625-7010
Cable and/or Phone – Comcast: (800) 934-6489
Cable and/or Phone – SBC/Pacific Bell: (800) 310-2355
Community Preservations – Community Development: (925) 625-7036
Electricity – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Finance Department: (925) 625-7010
Fire Department – East Contra Costa Fire Protection District: (925) 634-3400
Garbage – Oakley Disposal Service: (925) 682-9113
Gas – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Housing Department – Contra Costa County Housing Services: (510) 250-5270
Permit Department – Building Division: (925) 625-7005
Planning/Zoning Department: (925) 625-7000
Police Department: (925) 625-8060
Public Works: (925) 625-7037
Recycling – Oakley Disposal Service: (925) 757-7660
School District – Oakley Union Elementary School District: (925) 625-0700
School District – Liberty Union High School District: (925) 634-2166
School District – Antioch Unified School District: (925) 706-4100
Water – Diablo Water District: (925) 625-3798
Sign Location
Signs permitted in public right-of-way only when adjacent to property lines in such a manner that does not interfere with ADA accessibility or interrupt flow of vehicle or pedestrian traffic. No signs may be placed in center divider, traffic islands of public streets, or landscaped areas adjacent to the sidewalk.
# of Signs Allowed
No Restrictions.
Maximum Sign Height
Four feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Three square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
Mylar or helium-filled balloons are prohibited.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Signs may be displayed only during the period when property is available for public showing.
Contact Information
Public Works and Engineering Department: (510) 253-4231
Municipal Code
Rent Control
The City of Oakley does not have a rent control ordinance.
Business License Requirement
The City of Oakley requires a business license if you are a residential landlord with four or more rental units.
Call the Oakley Finance Department: (925) 625-7000
Special Assessment Districts
The city of Oakley has several assessment districts including: Community Park Assessment Districts, Street Lighting Assessment Districts and Landscape and Neighborhood Assessments. The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments.
Mello Roos
Oakley is part of a Mello-Roos district that funds the Antioch School District. To verify if a property is in a Mello-Roos or special assessment district call the Public Works and Engineering Department.
Call Public Works: (925) 625-7037
Additional Tax Information
The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments.
Call Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office: (925) 957-5280
Contra Costa County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.1133%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Contra Costa County property tax bill, visit Contra Costa County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Oakland
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Codes: 94577, 94601, 94602, 94603, 94605, 94606, 94607, 94608, 94609, 94610, 94611, 94612, 94615, 94617, 94618, 94619, 94621
Population: 419,987
Median household income: $60,060
Call the Oakland Chamber of Commerce: (510) 874-4800
Housing Information
Housing units: 169,710
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 48.1%
Homeownership rate: 41%
Average persons per household: 2.5
Public School District K-12
Oakland Unified School District
Call the Oakland Unified School District: (510) 434-7790
10 Largest Employers
Kaiser Permanente |
---|
Alameda County |
City of Oakland |
BART |
State of California |
Alameda Health Systems (Highland Hospital) |
Southwest Airlines |
Oakland Unified School District |
Sutter Hospitals, Medical Foundation & Support Services |
University of California |
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Division: (510) 238-3444
Business License: (510) 238-3704
Cable and/or Phone: (844) 246-9494
Cable and/or Phone: (855) 369-6101
Electricity: (800) 743-5000
Environmental Services: (510) 238-3686
Finance Department: (510) 238-2220
Fire Department: (510) 238-3856
Garbage: (510) 613-8710
Gas: (800) 743-5000
Housing Division: (510) 238-6182
Permit Department: (510) 238-3443
Planning/Zoning Department: (510) 615-5566
Sheriff Department: (510) 777-3333
Public Works: (510) 238-3961
Recycling: (510) 613-8710
Water: (866) 403-2683
Online Resources
City of Oakland
Oakland Chamber of Commerce: here
Oakland Unified School District: here
Housing Authority of the County of Alameda: here
East Bay Rental Housing Association: here
U.S. Census Bureau: OaklandQuickFacts
Sign Location
N/A
# of Signs Allowed
N/A
Maximum Sign Height
N/A
Maximum Sign Area
N/A
Sign Text & Other Requirements
Open house signs may not obstruct any public right of way.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
N/A
Contact Information
Planning and Zoning Office: (510) 238-3911 (press 2)
Regional Private Sewer Lateral Ordinance
The City of Oakland requires sewer lateral inspections prior to a home being sold. Additionally, inspections also are required for remodeling projects of $100,000 or more, and when a property owner changes the size of their water meter.
This point-of-sale requirement is in response to a court order from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA is requiring the East Bay Municipal Utilities District (EBMUD) repair damaged sanitary sewer pipes to prevent untreated waste from being released into the San Francisco Bay. EBMUD is in turn passing the responsibility to individual property owners who will have to obtain a certificate from EBMUD showing their sewer laterals are not damaged and are connected properly.
Condominium Smoking Disclosure
All sellers of condominium units are required to disclose to prospective buyers respectively whether smoking is permitted in the unit and the smoking policy for the complex.
Protected Tree Ordinance
Requires that property owners obtain a permit prior to removing Protected Trees on their property. Removing a Protected Tree without a permit can result in a special assessment against the property.
Call the Office of Parks and Recreation: (510) 238-7275
View Ordinance
The City of Oakland provides a claim procedure to compel the removal of trees that may obstruct private views and which existed at the time the claimant acquired his or her property. Certain trees that are part of the natural habitat are exempt form this code. The City does not take an active role in these issues; rather, it encourages the private resolution of such disputes. If a view dispute cannot be resolved privately, and if a claimant prevails through court trial or judicial arbitration, a civil penalty of $1,000 may be imposed upon the defendant. The claimant generally bears the cost of tree removal, but splits the cost with the tree owner if the tree was planted after August 5, 1990. The tree owner bears all costs if he or she fails to cooperate in a non-judicial resolution of the view dispute and if he or she receives an adverse judicial decision.
Call the Tree Services Section in the Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts Division: (510) 615-5850
Aircraft Noise
Some areas of Oakland are in close proximity to the Oakland International Airport.
For more information call: (510) 563-3300
Fire Hazard Zones
There are special fire hazard zones in the City of Oakland.
Call the Fire Department for Fire Hazard Zones: (510) 444-1616
Earthquake Zones
Earthquake zones exist within the City of Oakland.
Call the Engineering Department: (510) 238-2259
Additional Tax Information
The Alameda County Assessor Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
For more information call: (510) 272-3787
Rent Control
Rent increases are subject to the City’s Residential Rent Adjustment Program.
Residential Rent Adjustment Program
Owners must give tenants the Notice to Tenants of the Rent Adjustment Program, available from the Rent Adjustment Program office at the beginning of their tenancy, advising them of the existence and scope of the Rent Adjustment Program. Owners must provide the same Notice to Tenants with each Notice of Change of Terms of Tenancy. A notice of rent increase that is given without the Notice to Tenants is invalid, if challenged.
Regulations for rent-controlled units (effective August 1, 2014):
Only one rent increase is allowed in a twelve month period.
Maximum of 10% annual limit on all rent increases, unless CPI is above 10%.
Maximum of 30% on rent increases within a 5-year period. Rent increases above 30% in a 5-year period allowed if only CPI increases were given during 5-year period.
Maximum 70% of capital improvements costs can be passed through to tenants.
Units exempt from the Rent Adjustment Law are dwelling units which were newly constructed and received a certificate of occupancy on or after January 1, 1983.
Debt service as a justification for a new rent increase is eliminated.
In most cases, there is no limit on increases when a tenant moves out and a new tenant moves in. Once the new tenant moves in, the Rent Law limits future increases.
Residential Rent Adjustment Program
Call the Rent Adjustment Department: (510) 238-3721
Enhanced Noticing Requirements for All Capital Improvements
Effective August 1, 2014: After work is completed and paid for, the owner must prepare and submit to tenant(s):
Notice of rent increase.
Rent Adjustment Program (RAP) Notice to Tenants.
Summary of capital improvements:
With costs listed by category.
Date improvements were completed and paid for.
Start and end date of rent increase.
This set of 3 documents must be filed with the Rent Adjustment Program (RAP) within 10 days of service on each tenant affected by the capital improvement.
Failure of Owner to provide the required set of documents invalidates the proposed capital improvement rent increase.
Owners may still file a petition with RAP for a capital improvement increase in lieu of the enhanced notice requirements.
Energy Efficiency Program Financing – Property Assessed Clean Energy (“PACE”)
PACE financing is available to property owners engaging in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and water conservation upgrades to buildings. PACE financing is attached to the home, repaid through the property tax bill, and is transferred to subsequent owners until paid off. Oakland participates in the CaliforniaFIRST Program. Information is available at: here or here.
Business License Fee on Rental Property
The property owner must also have a current Oakland Business License and be current on payment of the RAP’s Service Fee. If paid on time, the landlord may charge the tenant one-half of this $30 per-unit fee ($15). If either the $30 per unit fee, or the Business License tax is not paid, a landlord Petition or Response to a tenant petition may not be considered, in a rent adjustment proceeding.
Dog Licenses
Every person who owns, harbors or has in his/her possession or control any dog over four (4) months of age in the City shall pay a license fee. No more than three (3) dogs allowed per residence. For more information visit: OaklandDogLicensing and find local and state laws applicable in Oakland at: LawsApplicabletoOaklandDogOwners
Type/Term 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year
Unsterilized $100.00 $150.00 $175.00
Sterilized $10.00 $15.00 $20.00
Senior Citizens (60+) Pet License Discount Eligible
Replacement Tags: $8 per tag
Disclosure of Smoking Policy in New and Existing Multi-Housing
All landlords in multi-housing complexes are required to disclose to prospective tenants whether smoking is permitted in the unit to be rented and, which units are designated smoking units and the smoking policy for the complex.
New Development Zones
Currently the City of Oakland has a number of new developments underway, in the planning or application stages.
Alameda County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Local Transfer Tax*
(The new local transfer tax rate is based on a sliding scale.)
For properties with a full value of $300,000 or less the rate is $10.00 per $1,000 – or 1.00%.
For properties with a full value between $300,000 and $2,000,000 the rate is $15 per $1,000 – or 1.50%.
For properties with a full value between $2,000,001 and $5,000,000 the rate is $17.50 per $1,000 – or 1.75%.
For properties with a full value more than $5,000,000 the rate is $25 per $1,000 – or 2.50%
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Alameda County property tax bill, visit Alameda County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Moraga
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
Town Information
Zip Code: 94556
Population: 16,977
Median household income: $136,336
Call the Moraga Chamber of Commerce: (925) 376-3779
Housing Information
Housing units: 5,754
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 83.1%
Homeownership rate: 84.5%
Average persons per household: 2.51
Public School District K-12
Call the Moraga School District: (925) 376-5943
Call the Acalanes Union High School District: (925) 280-3900
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Inspections – Planning Department: (925) 888-7040
Cable and/or Phone – AT&T: (800) 310-2355
Cable and/or Phone – Comcast: (800) 945-2288
Electricity – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Finance Department: (925) 888-7031
Fire Department – Moraga-Orinda Fire District: (925) 258-4599
Garbage – Allied Waste: (925) 685-4711
Gas – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Permit Department – Planning Department: (925) 888-7040
Planning/Zoning Department: (925) 888-7040
Police Department: (925) 376-2515
Public Works: (925) 888-7026
Recycling – Planning Department: (925) 888-7040
School District – Moraga School District: (925) 376-5943
School District – Acalanes Union High School District: (925) 280-3900
Water – EBMUD: (866) 403-2683
Sign Location
Off-site open house signs may be placed only at intersections in residential land use districts. No sign may be located further from the property than the closest main thoroughfare intersection. Major thoroughfares are St. Mary’s Road, Canyon Road, Moraga Way, Moraga Road, Rheem Boulevard, Camino Pablo, and Bollinger Canyon Road.
# of Signs Allowed
One on-site.
Maximum Sign Height
Four feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Four square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
None.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
The sign may be displayed only during the days and hours that the property is open for inspection.
Contact Information
Planning Department: (925) 888-7040
Additional Tax Information
The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments.
Call Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office: (925) 957-5280
Rent Control
The Town of Moraga does not have a rent control ordinance.
Contra Costa County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.0874%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Contra Costa County property tax bill, visit Contra Costa County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Martinez
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Code: 94553
Population: 38,373
Median household income: $98,102
Call the Martinez Chamber of Commerce: (925) 228-2345
Housing Information
Housing units: 14,976
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 79.4%
Homeownership rate: 67.6%
Average persons per household: 2.53
Public School District K-12
Martinez Unified School District
Mt. Diablo Unified School District
Call the Martinez Unified School District: (925) 335-5800
Call the Mt. Diablo Unified School District: (925) 682-8000
10 Largest Employers
Contra Costa County |
---|
Veterans Administration Medical Center |
Kaiser Permanente |
Shell Oil Refinery |
Martinez Unified School District |
Walmart |
Safeway Stores |
City of Martinez |
Home Depot |
Brand Energy |
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Inspections: (888) 602-0239
Business License: (925) 372-3568
Cable and/or Phone – AT&T: (800) 310-2355
Cable and/or Phone – Comcast: (800) 945-2288
Community Preservations – Code Enforcement: (925) 372-3532
Electricity – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Finance Department: (925) 372-3579
Fire Department – Contra Costa County Fire Protection: (925) 941-3300
Garbage – Allied Waste: (925) 685-4711
Gas – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Housing Department – Planning Department: (925) 372-3534
Permit Department – Building Official: (925) 372-3550
Planning/Zoning Department: (925) 372-3515
Police Department: (925) 372-3440
Recycling – Solid Waste and Recycling: (925) 372-3531
Rent Stabilization – Contra Costa Housing Authority: (925) 957-8035
School District – Martinez Unified School District: (925) 335-5800
Water – City Of Martinez: (925) 372-3575
Sign Location
Open house signs – no official ordinance on record therefore, exercise good judgment in placement of signs to ensure public safety of vehicles and pedestrians. If placing on private property that is not for sale, it is advised that you seek the owner’s written approval before placing any sign on their property.
# of Signs Allowed
N/A
Maximum Sign Height
N/A
Maximum Sign Area
N/A
Sign Text & Other Requirements
N/A
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
N/A
Contact Information
Code Enforcement: (925) 372-3598
Municipal Code
No official ordinance on record for open house signs.
Mello Roos Tax
Areas of Martinez are in the Mt. Diablo school district, which has a Mello Roos parcel tax to fund the Mt. Diablo School District. Homeowners living in areas served by the Mt. Diablo School District who are age 65 or older (by January 1 of the current year) may apply for an exemption to the $67 per year. Exemptions must be filed with the Mt. Diablo School District by June 1 of the current tax year.
Call to Obtain Exemption Form: (925) 682-8000
Additional Tax Information
The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments.
Call Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office: (925) 957-5280
Contra Costa County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.1210%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Contra Costa County property tax bill, visit Contra Costa County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Livermore
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Codes: 94550, 94551
Population: 86,493
Median household income: $104,223
Call Livermore Chamber of Commerce: (925) 447-1606
Housing Information
Housing units: 30,342
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 80.8%
Homeownership rate: 70%
Average persons per household: 2.8
Public School District K-12
Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District
Call Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District: (925) 606-3200
10 Largest Employers
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory |
---|
Valley Care Health System |
Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District |
Comcast Cable |
Sandia National Laboratory |
FormFactor, Inc. |
Wente Vineyards |
Kaiser Permanente Regional Distribution Center |
City of Livermore |
Livermore Area Recreational & Park District |
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Division: (925) 960-4410
Electricity: (800) 743-5000
Finance Department: (925) 960-4300
Fire Department: (925) 454-2361
Gas: (800) 743-5000
Planning Department: (925) 960-4450
Police Department: (925) 371-4900
School District: (925) 606-3200
Water: (925) 960-8100
Sign Location
No signs are permitted on public property or to be placed in the street or median areas. May be placed on sidewalks as long as four and one half feet remain clear.
# of Signs Allowed
One Sign per property per intersection leading from the two nearest major streets to the property. A maximum of three open house signs may be placed at any street intersection corner at any one time.
Maximum Sign Height
Four feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Four square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
No two signs with the same copy shall be placed closer than 50 feet from each other per street frontage.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Signs can only be displayed on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.
Contact Information
Planning Department: (925) 960-4450
Municipal Code
Spark Arrestor and Smoke Detector Requirement
Prior to the conclusion of the sale or transfer of a residential building the City of Livermore requires that the seller must ensure that the dwelling is equipped with a chimney spark arrestor and approved smoke alarm at the time of sale.
Report of Residential Building Records
A Report of Residential Building Records is required to be delivered to the buyer prior to the conclusion of a sale or transfer. An application for the Report of Residential Building Record may be found on the City of Livermore’s website.
Railroad
An active freight and commuter rail line crosses most of Livermore.
Special Land Use Designations
The city of Livermore has special land use designations.
Call the Planning Department: (925) 960-4450
Aircraft Noise
Some areas of Livermore are in close proximity to an airport.
Call the Livermore Airport: (925) 960-8220
Earthquake Zone
Livermore is located in a seismically active region (northeast portion).
Call the Planning Department: (925) 960-4450
Additional Tax Information
The Alameda County Assessor Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
Call the Alameda County Tax Assessor: (510) 272-3787
Rent Control
The City of Livermore does not have a rent control ordinance.
Business License Fee on Rental Units
Property owners of residential dwelling units shall pay an annual license fee of $1.20 for each $1,000 of gross receipts.
Call the Finance Department: (925) 960-4319
Special Land Use Designations
The city of Livermore has special land use designations.
Call the Planning Department: (925) 960-4450
Alameda County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.0971%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Alameda County property tax bill, visit Alameda County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Lafayette
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Code: 94549
Population: 25,381
Median household income: $142,977
Call the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce: (925) 284-7404
Housing Information
Housing units: 9,651
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 82.8%
Homeownership rate: 75.4%
Average persons per household: 2.64
Public School District K-12
Call the Lafayette School District: (925) 927-3500
Call the Acalanes Union High School District: (925) 280-3900
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Inspections – Contra Costa Building Inspection: (925) 646-4108
Cable and/or Phone – AT&T: (800) 228-2020
Cable and/or Phone – Comcast: (800) 945-2288
Electricity – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Environmental Services – Environmental Task Force: (925) 299-3219
Finance Department: (925) 299-3227
Fire Department – Contra Costa County Fire Protection: (925) 941-3300
Garbage – Allied Waste: (925) 603-1144
Gas – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Housing Department – Planning & Building Department: (925) 299-3206
Permit Department – Lafayette Planning Services Division: (925) 284-1976
Planning/Zoning Department – Lafayette Planning Services Division: (925) 284-1976
Police Department: (925) 283-3680
Public Works: (925) 934-3908
Recycling – Valley Waste Management: (925) 906-1801
School District – Lafayette School District: (925) 937-3500
School District – Acalanes Union High School District: (925) 280-3900
Water – EBMUD: (866) 403-2683
Sign Location
For each property there may be only one sign per intersection and no sign may be located farther from the property than the closest main thoroughfare intersection. No signs are permitted on public property or to be placed in the street or median areas. May be placed on sidewalks as long as 4 and a half feet remains clear.
# of Signs Allowed
One sign per intersection.
Maximum Sign Height
Four feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Four square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
A temporary residential realty sign may not be internally or externally illuminated.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Only on the day and during the hours that the property is available for public showing. The sign must be removed after each day of showing.
Contact Information
Planning Department: (925) 284-1976
Municipal Code
Mello Roos
Areas of Lafayette are in the Mt. Diablo school district, which has a Mello Roos parcel tax to fund the Mt. Diablo School District. Homeowners living in areas served by the Mt. Diablo School District who are age 65 or older (by January 1 of the current year) may apply for an exemption to the $67 per year. Exemptions must be filed with the Mt. Diablo School District by June 1 of the current tax year.
Call for an exemption form: (925) 682-8000
Additional Tax Information
The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments.
Call Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office: (925) 957-5280
Contra Costa County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.0944%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Contra Costa County property tax bill, visit Contra Costa County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Hercules
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Codes: 94547
Population: 25,086
Median household income: $113,194
Call the Hercules Chamber of Commerce: (510) 741-7945
Housing Information
Housing units: 8,553
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 80.7%
Homeownership rate: 76.5%
Average persons per household: 2.97
Public School District K-12
West Contra Costa Unified School District
Call the West Contra Costa Unified School District: (510) 231-1100
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Department: (510) 799-8240
Business License – Planning Department: (510) 799-8251
Cable and/or Phone – AT&T: (800) 310-2355
Cable and/or Phone – Comcast: (888) 266-2278
Cable and/or Phone – DirecTV: (888) 777-2454
Cable and/or Phone – Vonage: (800) 705-7092
Electricity – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Environmental Services: (510) 799-8241
Finance Department: (510) 799-8200
Fire Department – Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection: (510) 799-4561
Garbage – Richmond Sanitary Service: (510) 262-7100
Gas – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Permit Department: (510) 799-8240
Planning/Zoning Department: (510) 799-8251
Police Department – Hercules Police Department: (510) 799-8260
Public Works: (510) 799-8241
Recycling – Richmond Sanitary Service: (510) 262-7100
School District – West Contra Costa Unified School District: (510) 231-1100
Water – EBMUD: (866) 403-2683
Sign Location
Open house signs must be placed behind the sidewalk if the sidewalk is adjacent to the curb, or if the landscaped parkway is adjacent to the curb. Signs may not be located on rights-of-way, landscaped medians or parkways, in the center divider, sidewalk, and/or traffic islands of public streets, bicycle paths or public walking trails.
# of Signs Allowed
One sign for each direction at any intersection for each real estate company regardless of the number of listings located in that direction. Maximum of three signs at the corners of major arterial/collector streets and intersections. Maximum of two signs on secondary or residential.
Maximum Sign Height
Thirty inches.
Maximum Sign Area
Six and one quarter square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
A-Frame signs only, stick signs are strictly prohibited. Signs should be designed with directional arrows. No balloons or attachments are permitted.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Weekends from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Brokers tour from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Contact Information
Planning Department: (510) 245-6531
Municipal Code
Sewer Lateral Ordinance
Sewer Lateral Ordinance No. 457 requires a Sewer Lateral Certificate of Compliance prior to the close of escrow upon a sale or other transfer of the house, building, property or other structure served or, if there is no escrow, prior to recording a deed or other document transferring title to the house, building, property or other structure served.
Hercules Sewer Lateral Ordinance
Call the Public Works Division: (510) 799-8241
Additional Tax Information
The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments.
Call Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office: (925) 957-5280
Rent Control
The City of Hercules does not have a rent control ordinance.
The Residential Health & Safety Inspection Program
The City of Hercules has adopted the Residential Health & Safety Inspection Program to ensure that all rental properties in the city are maintained. All properties offered for rent within the City of Hercules are required to register. Properties are identified with a records research; properties not claiming a Homeowner’s Exemption with the Contra Costa County Assessor’s Office are contacted as potential rental properties. All properties that are not registered within the allotted time frame will have a lien placed on the property for the registration fees and administrative costs.
Hercules Residential Inspection Program
Call the Building Department: (510) 799-8240
Business License Requirement
The City of Hercules requires owners of rental properties to have a business license.
Call the Finance Department:(510) 799-8200
Contra Costa County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.3094%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Contra Costa County property tax bill, visit Contra Costa County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Hayward
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Codes: 94522, 94540, 94541, 94542, 94543, 94544, 94545, 94546, 94547
Population: 158,969
Median household income: $62,313
Call the Hayward Chamber of Commerce: (510) 537-2424
Housing Information
Housing units: 48,296
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 75%
Homeownership rate: 53.5%
Average persons per household: 3.24
Public School District K-12
Hayward Unified School District
Call the Hayward Unified School District: (510) 784-2600
10 Largest Employers
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center |
---|
California University East Bay |
Hayward Unified School District |
Alameda County |
City of Hayward |
Gillig Corporation |
St. Rose Hospital |
Pentagon Technologies |
Berkeley Farms LLC |
IMPAX Laboratories Inc. |
Government & Community Contact Information
Business & Tax License: (510) 583-4600
City Attorney’s Office: (510) 583-4142
Earthquake & Flood Zone Information: (510) 583-4794
Fire Department: (510) 583-49320
Garbage: (510) 430-8509
Gas: (800) 743-5000
Planning Department: (510) 583-4200
Police Department: (510) 293-7000
Recycling: (510) 537-5500
Rental Inspection Program: (510) 583-4140
School District: (510) 784-2600
Water: (510) 583-4600
Wildan Financial: (800) 755-6864
Sign Location
Signs may be placed on sidewalks as long as four feet remains clear. No signs are allowed in the street or center median, publicly maintained landscaped area, parks, bus stop zone, or where they may interfere with vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians or visibility of traffic or traffic signs.
# of Signs Allowed
Four directional signs and one on-site sign per open house. A total of four signs are permitted per intersection, one sign per corner.
Maximum Sign Height
Three feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Four square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
Name and phone number of the broker, agent or owner/seller must on the sign. Sign must be A-frame style. Signs shall not be illuminated. Signs shall not include balloons, streamers, ribbons, pennants, or other similar devices designed to move in the wind.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Weekends, federal holidays, and one designated tour-day each week from 8:00 a.m. to sunset.
Contact Information
Planning Department: (510) 583-4200
Municipal Code
Aircraft Noise
Some areas of Hayward are in close proximity to the Hayward Airport. Aircraft noise can be a potential disclosure issue.
For more information call the Hayward Airport: (510) 293-8678
Preservation of Protected Trees
Any person who owns, controls or has custody of any real property within the City of Hayward shall maintain all Protected Trees located thereon in a state of good health. This includes parcels designated as permanent open space or for recreational purposes. All Protected Trees require a permit for removal, relocation, cutting and shaping.
Visit City of Hayward – Tree Removal
High Risk Flood Zone
There are properties within Hayward that may be in a high risk flood zone.
Call the City’s Engineering Services Department: (510) 583-4735
Fault Lines
The City of Hayward is located in a seismically active region that contains several major active faults.
Call the City’s Engineering Services Department: (510) 583-4735
Settling Encumbrances or Paying off Bonds
To settle encumbrances and pay off bonds or assessments in conjunction with the sale of property, the City of Hayward contracts with Willdan Financial.
Call Willdan Financial: (800) 755-6864
Additional Tax Information
The Alameda County Assessor Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
Call the Alameda County Tax Assessor: (510) 272-3787
Rent Control
The City of Hayward has a rent control ordinance.
Residential Rent Control Ordinance
For a unit to be covered under rent control, the owner needs to:
Own five (5) or more units within the limits of the City of Hayward.
Have a certificate of occupancy issued (units built and okayed for use) prior to July 1, 1979.
If these requirements are not met, the unit is not under rent control and is governed by the State Law. As of January 1, 1999, single-family residential units are not covered under rent control. If the apartment unit is under rent control, the rent can only be increased 5% per year unless they have not revived an increase in the previous years, then the landlord can increase the rent a maximum of 10%. Landlords are required to pay interest only on the security deposit to units covered under rent control.
All rent increase notices shall be in writing and landlords are encouraged to provide at least 90 calendar days’ notice of any rent increase in order to allow for orderly operation of the dispute resolution. Unless otherwise agreed by the parties in writing, rent increases shall be limited to one increase in any consecutive 12-month period.
Call the Rent Review Office: (510) 583-4454
Rental Inspection Program
This mandatory program focuses attention on rental housing in higher density area with the goal of inspecting these units approximately every 3 years. Properties outside the focus area are inspected less frequently, unless they are the subject of a complaint. The City of Hayward will schedule an inspection of all rental properties. The landlord is responsible for the cost of the inspection, correction of any violations, and the cost of any re-inspections that might be required.
Read About the Residential Rental Inspection Program
Call the Rental Inspection Program: (510) 583-4175
Alameda County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Local Transfer Tax*
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$8.50
per each thousand
* A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Alameda County property tax bill, visit Alameda County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Emeryville
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Information
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Codes: 94608, 94662
Population:11,758
Median household income: $88,661
Housing Information
Housing units: 6,646
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 12.3%
Homeownership rate: 37%
Average persons per household: 1.76
Public School District K-12
Emeryville Unified School District or (510) 601-4000
10 Largest Employers
Pixar |
---|
Grifols Diagnostic Solutions |
AC Transit |
Oaks Card Club |
Clif Bar & Co |
LeapFrog |
IKEA |
AAA of Northern California, Nevada, Utah |
Novartis (Chiron) |
Peet’s Coffee & Tea |
Government & Community Contact Information
Electricity: (800) 743-5000
Fire Department: (510) 623-3476
Garbage: (510) 613-8710
Gas: (800) 743-5000
Planning Department: (510) 596-4361
Police Department: (510) 596-3700
School District: (510) 601-4000
Water: (866) 403-2683
Sign Location
Signs may not be placed in the roadway or in or on any median in the roadway. Signs shall only be placed on sidewalks and allow for a minimum of four feet clear path of travel. In no event shall signs be permitted or displayed on any other public property.
# of Signs Allowed
Off-site directional signs are limited to four per intersection.
Maximum Sign Height
Three feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Four square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
Signs shall not be illuminated. Signs shall not have balloons, pennants, flags, or streamers attached.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Daily from 8:00 a.m. through 6:00 p.m. Signs shall be removed during non-display hours.
Contact Information
Planning Department: (510) 596-4307
Municipal Code
Regional Private Sewer Lateral Ordinance
The City of Emeryville requires property owners to obtain a certificate from EBMUD indicating that their PSLs are without defects and have proper connections prior to the property being sold. Additionally, inspections also are required for remodeling projects of $100,000 or more, and when a property owner changes the size of their water meter.
Visit East Bay Regional Private Sewer Lateral Program
Zoning
Many residential developments in Emeryville are “Mixed Use” which means they include both residential and commercial uses in the same buildings.
For information regarding the potential for non-residential uses in specific buildings or for any potential zoning or other planning issues, call Emeryville Planning Department: (510) 596-4361
Additional Tax Information
The Alameda County Assessor Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
Call the Alameda County Tax Assessor: (510) 272-3787
Rent Control
The City of Emeryville does not have a rent control ordinance.
Business Tax on Rental Properties
The City of Emeryville requires that owners of residential rental properties pay a business tax on gross receipt from rental income.
Call the Business License desk of the City’s Finance Division : (510) 596-4326
Alameda County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Local Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of assessed value)
$12.00
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.1146%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Alameda County property tax bill, visit Alameda County Assessor and follow these instructions.
El Sobrante
- Housing Market Information
- Tax Information
Contra Costa County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.3094%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Contra Costa County property tax bill, visit Contra Costa County Assessor and follow these instructions.
El Cerrito
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Code: 94530
Population: 24,599
Median household income: $101,798
El Cerrito Chamber of Commerce
Call the El Cerrito Chamber of Commerce: (510) 705-1202
Housing Information
Housing units: 10,716
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 74.2%
Homeownership rate: 60.8%
Average persons per household: 2.35
Public School District K-12
West Contra Costa Unified School District
Call the West Contra Costa Unified School District: (510) 231-1100
10 Largest Employers
Barnes and Noble |
---|
Bed Bath & Beyond |
City of El Cerrito |
CVS Pharmacy |
El Cerrito Royale |
Fat Apple’s Restaurant |
Home Depot |
Honda of El Cerrito |
Lucky |
Mira Vista Golf and Country Club |
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Inspections: (510) 215-4350
Business License: (510) 215-4335
Community Preservations – Community Development: (510) 215-4339
Electricity – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Environmental Services – Public Works: (510) 215-4382
Finance Department: (510) 215-4323
Fire Department: (510) 215-4450
Garbage – East Bay Sanitary Company: (510) 237-4321
Gas – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Housing Department – Affordable Housing: (510) 215-4360
Permit Department – Building Permits: (510) 215-4360
Planning/Zoning Department: (510) 215-4330
Police Department: (510) 215-4400
Public Works: (510) 215-4382
Recycling: (510) 215-4350
Rent Stabilization – Housing Program: (510) 215-4358
School District – West Contra Costa Unified School District: (510) 231-1100
Water – EBMUD: (866) 403-2683
Sign Location
Must be placed as not to cause a hazard for pedestrians or vehicles. Signs are not permitted in the public right-of-way.
# of Signs Allowed
No limit.
Maximum Sign Height
Eight feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Four square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
Signs my not be illuminated.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Sign must be removed 48 hours after posting.
Contact Information
N/A
Municipal Code
Regional Private Sewer Lateral Ordinance
Effective August 2011 the City of El Cerrito requires property owners to obtain a certificate from East Bay Municipal Utilities District (EBMUD) indicating that their Private Sewer Laterals are without defects and have proper connections prior to the property being sold. Additionally, inspections also are required for remodeling projects of $100,000 or more, and when a property owner changes the size of their water meter.
EBMUD Private Sewer Lateral Program
Additional Tax Information
The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
Rent Control
The City of El Cerrito does not have a rent control ordinance.
The Rental Housing Inspection Program
This program is intended to assure that rental-housing units in the City of El Cerrito are maintained in a safe and habitable condition and comply with all codes and standards applicable to rental housing. The City will inspect each rental unit every two years. If the property is in compliance with applicable codes and standards, a certificate of compliance shall be issued to the property owner.
El Cerrito Residential Rental Inspection Program
Call the Residential Rental Inspection Help Line: (510) 690-8261
Business License Requirement
Owners of rental properties in the City of El Cerrito are required to have a business license.
Call the Administrative Services Department: (510) 215-4335
Contra Costa County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Local Transfer Tax*
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$12.00
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Contra Costa County property tax bill, visit Contra Costa County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Dublin
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Code: 94568
Population: 60,939
Median household income: $138,007
Dublin Chamber of Commerce or (925) 828-6200
Housing Information
Housing units: 18,817
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 62.8%
Homeownership rate: 63.7%
Average persons per household: 2.87
Public School District K-12
Dublin Unified School District or (925) 828-2251
10 Largest Employers
United States Government & Federal Correction Institute |
---|
Ross Stores Headquarters |
Dublin Unified School District |
SAP |
Zeiss Meditec |
County of Alameda |
Target |
Callidus Cloud |
De Silva Gates Construction |
Safeway |
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Division: (925) 833-6620
Business License: (925) 833-6620
Cable and/or Phone: (844) 246-9494
Cable and/or Phone: (855) 369-6101
Electricity: (800) 743-5000
Environmental Services: (925) 833-6630
Finance Department: (925) 833-6640
Fire Department: (925) 833-3473
Garbage: (925) 479-9545
Gas: (800) 743-5000
Housing Division: (925) 833-6610
Permit Department: (925) 833-6620
Planning/Zoning Department: (925) 833-6610
Sheriff Department: (925) 833-6670
Public Works: (925) 833-6630
Recycling: (925) 479-9545
School District: (925) 828-2551
Water: (925) 828-0515
Sign Location
Signs are allowed on sidewalk and landscaping strip between sidewalk and street but cannot disrupt vehicular flow, views, ingress or egress, or restrict sidewalk to less than 32”. Signs may not be placed in the center divider or traffic islands and within a 5 foot radius of a call box, fire hydrant or mail box. Signs allowed in R-1, R-2 and RM zones only.
# of Signs Allowed
Four per property, eight per intersection and one per property per intersection.
Maximum Sign Height
Three feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Four square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
No tags, riders, streamers, balloons or other attachments. City may charge for removing illegal signs. Signage is not to be adhered to or attached to any public sign post, traffic signal or utility pole. Authorization of affected private property owner shall be secured prior to placement of signs on private property.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Holidays, Saturdays and Sundays and one agent tour day each week from 10:00 a.m. to sunset.
Contact Information
Planning: (925) 833-6610
Municipal Code
Spark Arrestor Ordinance
Every single-family dwelling which is sold and which has an appliance or fireplace connected to a chimney shall terminate in a spark arrestor. Such spark arrestor shall be constructed with 12 gauge minimum welded or woven wire mesh that will not permit passage of spheres having a diameter larger than inch, nor block passage of spheres having a diameter of less than 3/8 inch. The spark arrestor shall have a net free area of not less than four (4) times the net free area of the chimney it serves. (Ord. 37-87 § 1 (a))
The transfer of any real property containing a single-family dwelling, whether the transfer is made by sale, exchange, or real property sales contract, as defined in Section 2985 of the State Civil Code, shall deliver to the transferee a written statement indicating that the transferor is in compliance with this section. The disclosure statement shall be either included in the receipt for deposit in a real estate transaction, an addendum attached thereto, or a separate document. (Ord. 37-87 § 1 (b))
Heritage Tree Ordinance
No person may remove, cause to be removed, or effectively remove any heritage tree from any property within the city of Dublin without obtaining a permit from the Director. “Heritage tree” means any of the following: Any oak, bay, cypress, maple, redwood, buckeye and sycamore tree having a trunk or main stem of twenty-four inches or more in diameter measured at four (4) feet six inches above natural grade.
Call the Community Development Department: (925) 833-6620
Rent Control
None in the City of Dublin.
Business License Fee on Rental Property
Owners of residential rental property in the City of Dublin are required to have a business license. There are no exemptions for renting to family members, or where rent does not cover owner’s expenses. License fees are based on the number of rental units and can be prorated for full months of vacancy. Business license applications are available at BusinessLicenseApplication or contact the Community Development Department (925) 833-6610.
Prohibition of Smoking in Multi-Unit Residences
Effective January 1, 2013 at least seventy-five percent (75%) of multi-unit residences must be permanently designated as nonsmoking units. Nonsmoking units must be contiguously grouped together both horizontally and vertically and physically separated from those units in which smoking is permitted to the maximum extent practicable. The complete ordinance is available at SmokingPollutionControl.
Special Study or Planning Zones
In 2017, three specific development planning zones were active: Dublin Crossing Specific Plan; Downtown Dublin Specific Plan; and the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. As of October, 2017, 743 residential units had been developed in these areas, with 6,444 units remaining to build out.
In addition, the Dublin Village Historic Area Specific Plan guides future development in the specific plan area to take into consideration the area’s historic past and preserve and enhance its historic, cultural, and archaeological resources. Find details at DublinDevelopmentActivity.
Mello-Roos Tax
The new development of Dublin Crossing is seeking city council approval to impose a Mello Roos tax on homeowners.
Assessment Districts
There are several different types of assessment districts in the City of Dublin, including:
Landscaping Assessment Districts
Street Lighting Assessment Districts
Geologic Hazard Abatement Districts (GHAD)
Refuse Collection Assessment Districts
EMS Fees
Dublin Boulevard Extension Assessment District
Some districts, such as Landscaping and GHAD, are only assessed on properties within the physical boundaries of their districts. Other districts, such as the Refuse Collection and Street Lighting districts, are assessed on every property in the City of Dublin. Assessments occur annually and are collected on the property tax bill.
Call the Public Works Department: (925) 833-6630
Dog Licenses
Every dog owner must license their dog which is four months or older and renew each license annually. Information is available at AlamedaCountyAnimalLicensing.
Type/Term 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year
Unsterilized $20.00 $30.00 $40.00
Sterilized $10.00 $15.00 $20.00
Senior Citizens (62+) – Pet License 50% Discount Eligible
Replacement Tags – $5.00 per Dog Tag
Additional Tax Information
The Alameda County Assessor Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
Alameda County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.1401%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Alameda County property tax bill, visit Alameda County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Danville
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Resources
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
Town Information
Zip Codes: 94506, 94526
Population: 44,786
Median household income: $152,798
Call the Danville Chamber of Commerce: (925) 837-4400
Housing Information
Housing units: 15,934
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 93.6%
Homeownership rate: 84.2%
Average persons per household: 2.73
Public School District K-12
San Ramon Valley Unified School District
Call the San Ramon Valley Unified School District: (925) 552-5500
10 Largest Employers
Costco |
---|
Keller Williams Realty |
J. Rockcliff REALTORS® |
Crow Canyon Management Corp. |
Safeway, Inc. |
The Peasant and The Pear |
People and Properties Sotheby’s Int’l Realty |
Danville Nursing & Rehabilitation Center |
Alain Pinel REALTORS® |
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Inspections – Inspection Request Line: (925) 314-3333
Business License: (925) 314-3326
Cable and/or Phone – AT&T: (800) 310-3356
Cable and/or Phone – Comcast: (800) 266-2278
Electricity – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Finance Department: (925) 314-3320
Fire Department – San Ramon Valley Fire Protection: (925) 838-6640
Garbage – Central Contra Costa Waste Authority: (925) 603-1144
Gas – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Housing Department – Tri-Valley Housing Opportunity Center: (925) 373-3130
Permit Department: (925) 314-3330
Planning/Zoning Department: (925) 314-3310
Police Department – Danville Police Department: (925) 314-3700
Public Works – Engineering Department: (925) 314-3310
Recycling – Green Building: (888) 404-7336
Rent Stabilization – Tri-Valley Housing Opportunity Center: (925) 373-3130
School District – San Ramon Valley Unified School District: (925) 552-5500
Water – EBMUD: (866) 403-2683
Sign Location
Each real estate company may place only one sign per direction at any one intersection. Signs are permitted on major arterial/collector intersections with a maximum of eight signs per intersection at any one time. Signs are permitted on secondary streets with a maximum of four signs per intersection at any one time. No signs shall be allowed on fences, utility poles, sidewalks, median strips, traffic islands, or within a travel way of a street. Signs may not encroach into the pedestrian walkway or obstruct the line of sight of a motorist.
# of Signs Allowed
Number of off-site signs are limited to the number of allowable signs at intersections.
Maximum Sign Height
Three feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Four square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
Sign “riders” are not allowed to be placed on any off-site real estate – open house/directional – residential signs.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
One weekday for Agent Tour Day, plus Saturdays, Sundays and holidays between 10:00 a.m. and sunset.
Contact Information
Planning Department: (925) 314-3310
Municipal Code
Tree Preservation Ordinance
The Town of Danville has a Tree Preservation Ordinance which requires an approved tree permit be obtained before certain trees are removed.
Call Planning Division: (925) 314-3310
Home Occupancy Permits
A business license and home occupation permits are required if a home is used as a business location.
Any Danville business that does not have a commercial storefront, office or commercial or industrial location is considered to be a home-based business, even if the sales or services are performed outside the residence.
Alarm Ordinance
An alarm permit is required for every person or business installing and using an alarm system within the Town of Danville. There is no fee for the alarm permit. Permits are required to be renewed annually.
Sidewalk Maintenance
The owner of a parcel of real property which fronts on any portion of a sidewalk area is responsible for the repair and maintenance of the sidewalk area and shall pay the cost and expense of such repair and maintenance. If the owner does not maintain the sidewalk in a safe manner, the Town may make the necessary repairs and collect the cost of such repairs pursuant to the authority of Streets and Highways Code Section 5600 et seq. (Ord. #96-05, §1).
Sidewalk Maintenance Ordinance
Call Development Services: (925) 314-3310
Historic Preservation
The Town of Danville has designated properties and areas, mainly downtown, which are subject to its Historical Preservation Ordinance. Property should contact Town Planning Staff for direction and guidance prior to developing plans for a historic site.
Call Planning Division: (925) 314-3310
Danville Street Lighting and Landscape Assessment Districts
There are several districts within Danville which are assessed for street lighting and landscape. These assessments vary by geographical zones and are included in the property tax bill.
Call Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office: (925) 957-5280
Additional Tax Information
The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
Call Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office: (925) 957-5280
Rent Control
The Town of Danville does not have a rent control ordinance.
Business License
Property managers who manage four (4) or more rental units within the Town limits are required to have a business license. The annual fee is $100 plus $10 per employee per year plus $1 state fee.
Contra Costa County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.0937%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Contra Costa County property tax bill, visit Contra Costa County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Concord
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Codes: 94518, 94519, 94520, 94521, 94523
Population: 128,728
Median household income: $76,335
Call the Concord Chamber of Commerce: (925) 685-1181
Housing Information
Housing units: 47,125
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 67.9%
Homeownership rate: 61.2%
Average persons per household: 2.7
Public School District K-12
Contra Costa County Office of Education
Mt. Diablo Unified School District
Call the Contra Costa County Office of Education: (925) 942-3388
Call the Mt. Diablo Unified School District: (925) 682-8000
10 Largest Employers
John Muir Health Physical RHB |
---|
Macy’s |
Benchmark Electronics Inc. |
Central Contra Costa Transit |
Conco CO |
Concord Hotel LLC |
Concord Tax Debt Attorneys |
Contra Costa Water District |
Costco |
Fry’s Electronics |
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Inspections – Permit Center: (925) 671-3454
Business License: (925) 671-3307
Cable and/or Phone – AT&T: (800) 310-2355
Cable and/or Phone – Comcast: (800) 945-2288
Community Preservations – Code Enforcement: (925) 671-3075
Electricity – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Environmental Services – Planning Division: (925) 671-3332
Finance Department: (925) 671-3178
Garbage – Concord Disposal Service: (925) 682-9113
Gas – PG&E(: 800) 743-5000
Housing Department – Economic Development: (925) 671-3370
Permit Department: (925) 671-3454
Planning/Zoning Department: (925) 671-3152
Police Department – Concord Police Department: (925) 671-3220
Public Works: (925) 671-3448
Recycling – Concord Disposal Service: (925) 692-2229
Rent Stabilization: (925) 671-3331
School District – Mt. Diablo Unified School District: (925) 682-8000
Water – Contra Costa Water District: (925) 688-8044
Sign Location
Signs may not be placed in public right of way.
# of Signs Allowed
One on-site. Maximum one open house directional sign per intersection.
Maximum Sign Height
Four feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Four square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
Name and phone number of agent and/or agency. The sign shall not be illuminated.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. Signs may not be left standing overnight.
Contact Information
Planning Division: (925) 671-3152
Municipal Code
Weatherization Disclosure Requirements
Every seller of a residential dwelling building containing one through four dwelling units shall provide to all prospective buyers of the dwelling, on an approved standardized form, written information on whether all of the following energy saving devices exist on or in each dwelling unit:
All accessible attic space above living area is insulated, and if so, the thermal resistance (R) value (as defined in Section 2-5302 of Title 24 of the California Administrative Code, as amended or recodified from time to time) of the insulation material;
All doors and windows leading to unheated areas are weather stripped;
Hot water heater tanks are fitted with an insulation blanket or other insulation material;
All accessible shower heads have flow restrictors or low flow shower heads;
All accessible heating and cooling ducts in unheated areas are insulated;
All major joints and openings to the dwelling’s exterior, including switch plates and wall outlets, are caulked or sealed.
Every buyer of a residential dwelling containing one through four dwelling units shall submit written acknowledgment of receipt of the information to the Public Works Director, within fourteen (14) days after close of escrow or transfer of title to the property. Failure of the seller and/or buyer to comply with these requirements shall not affect the validity of the transfer of the property.
Mello Roos Tax
The City of Concord has a Mello-Roos parcel tax known as “Measure A” to fund the Mt. Diablo School District. Homeowners who live in the Mt. Diablo School District who are age 65 or older (by January 1 of the current year) and may apply for an exemption to the $67 per year. Exemptions must be filed with the Mt. Diablo School District by June 1 of the current tax year.
Call to Obtain an Exemption Form: (925) 682-8000
Additional Tax Information
The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
Call Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office: (925) 957-5280
Rent Control
The City of Concord does not have a rent control ordinance.
Landlord Business License
City of Concord requires a business license for commercial and residential landlords (renting four or more units).
Call for More Information: (925) 671-3307
Contra Costa County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.1125%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Contra Costa County property tax bill, visit Contra Costa County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Clayton
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Code: 94513, 94517
Population: 11,431
Median household income: $88,306
Housing Information
Housing units: 4,086
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 93.6%
Homeownership rate: 88.5%
Average persons per household: 2.82
Public School District K-12
Mt. Diablo Unified School District
Call the Liberty Union High School District: (925) 682-8000
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Inspections: (925) 646-2300
Business License: (925) 673-7310
Cable and/or Phone – AT&T: (800) 310-2355
Cable and/or Phone – Comcast: (800) 945-2288
Electricity – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Finance Department: (925) 673-7309
Fire Department – Contra Costa County Fire Protection: (925) 941-3300
Garbage – Allied Waste: (925) 685-4711
Gas – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Housing Department: (925) 673-7340
Planning/Zoning Department: (925) 673-7340
Police Department – Clayton Police Department: (925) 673-7350
Recycling – Central Contra Costa Sanitary District: (925) 228-9500
School District – Mt. Diablo Unified School District: (925) 682-8000
Water – Contra Costa Water District: (925) 688-8044
Sign Location
Only one off-site sign per open house allowed at any intersection.The signs shall not be displayed in a public right-of-way nor shall they obstruct a pedestrian walkway, except signs shall be allowed behind the sidewalk or behind the curb if there is no sidewalk. No signs shall be displayed on private property without the consent of the property owner.
# of Signs Allowed
One on-site. Up to six off-site.
Maximum Sign Height
Three feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Two square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
Name and phone number of agent and/or agency. No balloons, flags, pennants allowed.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Up to one hour before and one hour after.
Contact Information
Engineering Department: (925) 969-8181
Municipal Code
Oakhurst Geological Hazard Abatement District
Property owners within the Oakhurst Geological Hazard Abatement District (GHAD) are charged an annual special assessment. The Oakhurst Geologic Hazard Abatement District oversees the geological hazard abatement area within the City of Clayton and is administered by the City Engineer/District Manager.
Oakhurst Geological Hazard Abatement District
Call the District Manager: (925) 363-7433
Mello Roos Tax
The City of Clayton has Mello-Roos and special assessment districts. The Assessor’s parcel number determines these assessments. These may include lighting and landscaping assessment, fire assessment, emergency medical service assessment, clean water assessment, and school districts.
Additional Tax Information
The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
Lookup Current Taxes Instructions
Call Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office: (925) 957-5280
Rent Control
The City of Clayton does not have a rent control ordinance.
Business License Fees for Landlords
The City of Clayton requires residential (four or more units) and commercial owners of rental property to have a business license. A person who owns dwelling unit or units being used as a rental shall pay:
Single Family $177.72
Duplex and multiple dwellings $177.72 for the first unit and $37.40 each additional unit
Commercial %0.0556 per square foot or $177.72 for each separate business operated on the premises whichever is greater.
Call about Business Licenses: (925) 673-7310
Business Tax Certificate Requirement
Any person who carries on business in the City of Brentwood (including rentals and leases) is required to obtain a business tax certificate.
Contra Costa County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.1125%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Contra Costa County property tax bill, visit Contra Costa County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Castro Valley
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
Castro Valley
Zip Codes: 94546, 94552
Population: 62,044
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Division: (510) 670-5440
Business License: (510) 670-6400
Cable and/or Phone: (844) 246-9494
Cable and/or Phone: (855) 369-6101
Electricity: (800) 743-5000
Environmental Services: (510) 537-0757
Finance Department: (510) 670-6400
Fire Department: (510) 670-5853
Garbage: (510) 613-8710
Gas: (800) 743-5000
Housing Authority: (510) 538-8876
Permit Department: (510) 670-5440
Planning/Zoning Department: (510) 670-5400
Sheriff Department: (510) 667-7721
Public Works: (510) 670-5480
Recycling: (510) 613-8710
School District: (510) 644-6348
Water: (866) 403-2683
Online Resources
Castro Valley Resource Website: CityTownInfo/CastroValley
County of Alameda: Here
County of Alameda Codes and Ordinances: Here
Castro Valley/Eden Area Chamber of Commerce: Here
Castro Valley Unified School District: Here
Housing Authority of the County of Alameda: Here
East Bay Rental Housing Association: Here
https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/alamedacitycalifornia/PST045216
U.S. Census Bureau: CastroValleyQuickFacts
Sign Location
Two signs permitted per lot, six square feet maximum area per sign.
# of Signs Allowed
Two signs per lot.
Maximum Sign Height
No restrictions.
Maximum Sign Area
Six square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
It is unlawful to place an open house sign in the median. Signs may not be illuminated.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
No restrictions, however the Alameda County Planning Department recommends placing and removing open house signs the same day as the property is being held open.
Contact Information
Planning: (510) 670-5400
Municipal Code
Sewer Lateral Testing and Repair
Effective July 1, 2019 all private sewer laterals for existing buildings including, but not limited to, those serving residential, multiple residential, commercial, and industrial properties that are connected to the public sewer main, shall be cleaned and pass a CCTV inspection as reviewed by an authorized CVSan inspector, and at the property owner’s expense when any of the following events occur:
1. To properties prior to the close of escrow of the sale or, if there is no escrow, prior to recording the deed or the document transferring the title.
2. When CVSan finds that unpermitted private sewer lateral work exists at the building or property.
3. When CVSan finds that the private sewer lateral is a public nuisance.
Castro Valley Private Sewer Lateral Program
Aircraft Noise
There are several airports in and around Alameda County that may create a certain level of noise and have flight patterns subject to change. Airport information:
Livermore Airport – 636 Terminal Circle, Livermore, CA: (925) 960-8220
Meadowlark Field Airport- 4300 Greenville Road, Livermore, CA: (925) 606-1536
Hayward Executive Airport – 20301 Skywest Drive, Hayward, CA: (510) 293-8678
Little Hands Airport – 18320 Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon, CA: (415) 837-8981
Oakland International – Airport 1 Airport Drive, Oakland, CA: (510) 563-3300
Flood/Fire/Seismic
Portions of Unincorporated areas of Alameda County are located in flood, fire, and/or seismic zones.
Call for Flood Information: (510) 670-5480
Call for Fire Information: (510) 670-5853
Call for Seismic Information: (510) 464-7900
Tree Ordinance
The County Tree Ordinance requires property owners planning to perform any of the following activities to obtain an approved permit from the Alameda County Public Works Agency: Pruning/ Trimming of branches over one (1) inch in diameter (permits are not required for minor pruning of branches one (1″) inch in diameter or less), planting or removing a tree.
Dog Licenses
Every dog owner must license their dog which is four months or older and renew each license annually. Information is available at AlamedaCountyAnimalLicensing.
Type/Term 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year
Unsterilized $20.00 $30.00 $40.00
Sterilized $10.00 $15.00 $20.00
Senior Citizens (62+) – Pet License 50% Discount Eligible
Replacement Tags – $5.00 per Dog Tag
San Francisco Bay Protection
Beginning July 1, 2017, a $12 per parcel tax annually for properties in Bay Area counties including Alameda County was levied pursuant to the passing of Measure AA in 2016. Exemptions apply to parcels already exempt from state ad valorem taxes.
Real Estate Developer and Rehabilitation of Real Estate
Every person engaged in the business of developing or rehabilitating and selling real property in which said person has equity, interest or title, and not specifically taxed by Section 3.04.350 or other provisions of this chapter, shall pay a business tax of one dollar and twenty-five cents ($1.25) for each thousand dollars ($1,000.00) of permit value for building permits obtained for work engaged in at sites within the unincorporated areas of the county.
Real Estate Rehabilitation Ordinance
Sidewalk Repair Program
The Sidewalk Repair Program applies only to single-family residential units in the following five county communities within County Planning Area 2: Ashland, Castro Valley/Fairmont, Cherryland, Unincorporated Hayward/Fairview, and San Lorenzo/Royal Sunset.
Funded through Measure B funds, this program will reimburse 50% of the sidewalk repair cost per property (or up to $750, whichever is less) for sidewalk-related repairs to the frontage of a single family residential parcel within Planning Area 2. Homeowners residing in San Lorenzo may be eligible for additional assistance through Redevelopment funds.
Call Public Works for More Information: (510) 670-5500
Flood Benefit Assessment
The Alameda County Flood Control and Water Conservation District levies benefit assessments to help finance flood control operations. These assessments are proportionate to the runoff from each parcel of land. The program applies to all Alameda County with the exception of the Cities of Albany, Berkeley, Alameda, Piedmont, and the Zone 7 area east of the hills (Livermore-Amador Valley).
Call Assessor’s Office for More Information: (510) 272-3787
Additional Tax Information
The Alameda County Assessor Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments.
Rent Control
The County of Alameda has a rent control ordinance for mobile home parks. The Ordinance specifies the maximum space rental increase cannot exceed 5% annually unless the Board of Supervisors approves a request for a higher increase.
You must obtain a business license from Alameda County only if you are conducting any type of business, including leasing residential and commercial property, or your business is based in an unincorporated area of Alameda County.
Alameda County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.1054%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Alameda County property tax bill, visit Alameda County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Brentwood
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Code: 94513
Population: 62,433
Median household income: $96,945
Call the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce: (925) 634-3344
Housing Information
Housing units: 16,266
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 93%
Homeownership rate: 74.9%
Average persons per household: 3.12
Public School District K-12
Brentwood Union School District
Liberty Union High School District
Call the Brentwood Union School District: (925) 513-4902
Call the Liberty Union High School District: (925) 634-2166
10 Largest Employers
Brentwood Union School District |
---|
City of Brentwood |
Liberty Union High School District |
Safeway, Inc. |
BJ’s Brewhouse |
Home Depot |
Precision Cabinets |
Winco Foods, Inc. |
Rodda Electric & Solar |
Walgreens |
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Inspections: (925) 809-7930
Business License: (925) 516-5480
Cable and/or Phone – Comcast: (800) 945-2288
Community Preservations: (925) 516-5195
Electricity – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Finance Department: (925) 516-5460
Fire Department – East Diablo Fire: (925) 634-3400
Garbage – Brentwood Garbage: (925) 516-5415
Gas – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Housing Department: (925) 516-5405
Permit Department: (925) 516-5405
Planning/Zoning Department: (925) 516-5405
Police Department – Brentwood Police Department: (925) 634-6911
Public Works: (925) 516-6000
Recycling – Public Works: (925) 516-6000
Rent Stabilization – Code Enforcement: (925) 516-5405
School District – Brentwood Union School District: (925) 513-6300
Water – Brentwood Water: (925) 516-5415
Sign Location
Signs may be mounted in the public right-of-way in locations where they will not interfere with normal pedestrian or vehicle traffic, and must not block the visibility triangle. Signs may not be placed in the street median (middle of the street) or on any light standard or pole, and cannot block the view of other signs.
# of Signs Allowed
The maximum number of signs allowed per project is three.
Maximum Sign Height
Three feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Three square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
Name and phone number of agent and/or agency.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Weekends and legal holidays only and must be removed at the conclusion of the event.
Contact Information
Code Enforcement: (925) 516-5405
Municipal Code
Sewer Lateral Inspection
Whenever any property is to be transferred to or vested in any other person or entity and that property includes any buildings or structures constructed more than twenty-five years prior to the date of transfer or vesting, the sewer lateral(s) to that property shall be tested for infiltration and all necessary repairs or replacements performed to prevent all infiltration. The city engineer shall establish or approve testing procedures. All repair or replacement work shall be completed and approved by the city prior to transfer of title.
Brentwood Sewer Lateral Ordinance
Right to Farm Real Estate Transfer Disclosure Statement
In accordance with the provisions of Section 1102.6a of the California Civil Code, upon any transfer of real property adjacent to, or within two thousand feet of agricultural land by sale, exchange, installment land sale contract, lease with an option to purchase, any other option to purchase, or ground lease coupled with improvements, or residential stock cooperative improved with one to four dwelling units, the transferor shall deliver to the prospective transferee the disclosure statement set forth below, as soon as practicable following the transferee’s offer to purchase, or similar offer, but no later than five days before transfer of title.
Residential Weatherization Disclosure
Every seller of a residential dwelling building containing one through four dwelling units shall provide to all prospective buyers of the dwelling, on an approved standardized form, written information on whether all of the following energy-saving devices exist on or in each dwelling unit:
All accessible attic space above living area is insulated, and if known, the thermal resistance (R) value (as defined in Section 2-5302 of Title 24 of the California Administrative Code, as amended or recodified from time to time) of the insulation material;
All doors and windows leading to unheated areas are weather stripped;
Hot water heater tanks are fitted with an insulation blanket or other insulation material;
All accessible heating and cooling ducts in unheated areas are insulated;
All major joints and openings to the dwelling’s exterior, including switch plates and wall outlets, are caulked or sealed. (Ord. 463 § 2, 1989)
Gas Shut-off Valve Requirements (Unincorporated Areas Only)
Ordinance Code chapter 718-8 requires gas shut-off valves be installed downstream of the meter on any residential, commercial or industrial building that has fuel gas piping supplying the building and the building is sold on or after December 1, 2006. The device must be installed before the parties to the sale enter into an agreement for sale, or before the close of escrow.
Contra Costa County Gas Shut-Off Valve Ordinance
Mello Roos Tax and Special Assessment Districts
The City of Brentwood has four special Community Facilities Districts formed under the Mello-Roos Community Facilities Act of 1982. Each district has varying assessments and maturity dates.
Call the Finance Department: (925) 516-5401
Additional Tax Information
The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
Call Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office: (925) 957-5280
Rent Control
The City of Brentwood does not have a rent control ordinance.
Rental Property Inspection Program
The exterior of each rental unit in the City of Brentwood will be inspected by Code Enforcement staff at least once every two years. It is intended to encourage owners of residential rental units to maintain their properties in order to preserve existing housing stock and create an atmosphere that affords all residents a safe and comfortable place to live. The ordinance is intended to ensure the proper maintenance of residential rental housing and prevent situations that could adversely affect the quality of life in the City.
Brentwood Rental Inspection Program
Business Tax Certificate Requirement
Any person who carries on business in the City of Brentwood (including rentals and leases) is required to obtain a business tax certificate.
Contra Costa County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.0520%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Contra Costa County property tax bill, visit Contra Costa County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Berkeley
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Codes: 94702, 94703, 94704, 94705, 94706, 94707, 94708, 94709, 94710, 94720
Population: 121,240
Median household income: $66,237
Call the Berkeley Chamber of Commerce: (510) 549-7000
Housing Information
Housing units: 49,671
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 46.9%
Homeownership rate: 42.7%
Average persons per household: 2.29
Public School District K-12
Berkeley Unified School District
Call the Berkeley Unified School District: (510) 644-5400
10 Largest Employers
UC Berkeley |
---|
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory |
Alta Bates |
Bayer |
City of Berkeley |
Berkeley Schools |
Kaiser Permanente |
Berkeley Bowl Produce |
Pacific Steel Casting |
Berkeley City College |
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Inspections: (510) 981-7400
Business License: (510) 981-7300
Cable and/or Phone: (844) 246-9494
Cable and/or Phone: (855) 369-6101
Electricity: (800) 743-5000
Environmental Services: (510) 981-5310
Finance Department: (510) 981-7300
Fire Department: (510) 981-3473
Garbage: (510) 981-7270
Gas: (800) 743-5000
Housing Authority: (510) 981-5470
Permit Department: (510) 981-7500
Planning/Zoning Department: (510) 981-7400
Police Department: (510) 981-5802
Rent Board: (510) 981-7368
Sheriff Department: (510) 981-5900
Public Works: (510) 981-6300
Recycling: (510) 981-7270
School District: (510) 644-4500
Water: (866) 403-2683
Sign Location
On-premises wall or ground sign.
# of Signs Allowed
One temporary on-premises wall or ground sign.
Maximum Sign Height
No higher than 7′ above grade or within 12 vertical feet of electrical conductors.
Maximum Sign Area
Six square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
Placement of Open House sign shall not cause a hazard to pedestrian or vehicle traffic and may not be affixed to city owned utility poles and lamp posts.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Locate the property’s zoning district and comply with the sign ordinance.
Private Sewer Lateral Program
Prior to any transfer of property that contains any structure with a private sewer lateral (PSL), the owner shall have the PSL(s) for all property associated with the parcel number for that property inspected or tested, unless he or she presents satisfactory proof to the City Engineer that the City has issued a Sewer Lateral Certificate of Compliance for that PSL within the immediately preceding 7 years. Alternatively, the owner may replace the PSL without prior inspection or testing.
All required repair or replacement work shall be completed and a Sewer Lateral Certificate of Compliance obtained prior to transfer of title. Alternatively, the City Engineer may permit funds in an amount he or she determines to be sufficient to complete the work, to be retained in deposit with the City, subject to the condition that the required work be completed within six months and that the transferor and transferee execute and deliver to the City Engineer a completed Right of Entry authorizing the City or its agent to enter on the property and complete the repairs if they are not completed within six months after close of escrow, as well as any other conditions he or she deems appropriate. In the event the work is not completed within six months of the close of escrow, the funds shall be forfeited and transferred to the City, which may enter onto the property and complete the repairs. Any additional cost of repairs shall be billed to the current owner and in the event of nonpayment, shall become a lien on the property and may be imposed.
Except as otherwise provided or as allowed by the City Engineer, the owner of the property, including both the seller and the buyer, is responsible for compliance with this Chapter. The seller of any real property shall be responsible for disclosing to prospective purchasers the requirements of this Chapter and the compliance status of the real property in question. Upon transfer of ownership, the buyer will be responsible for the compliance with this Chapter, regardless of any disclosure or failure to disclose. (Ord. 7200-NS § 1 (part), 2011)
City of Berkeley Sewer Lateral Program
Residential Energy Conservation Ordinance (RECO)
The purpose of RECO is to increase the energy and water efficiency in Berkeley residences. RECO applies to all homes, residential areas of mixed-use buildings, tenants-in-common, condominiums, multi-family properties, live-work spaces and boarding houses (including the common areas/common systems) and must be complied with upon the sale or transfer of property or renovation. RECO compliance must be completed within one year of the date of sale.
Residential Energy Conservation Ordinance (RECO)
Energy Efficiency Program Financing – Property Assessed Clean Energy (“PACE”)
financing is available to property owners engaging in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and water conservation upgrades to buildings. PACE financing is attached to the home, repaid through the property tax bill, and is transferred to subsequent owners until paid off. Berkeley participates in the CaliforniaFIRST Program, CSCDA Open PACE, HERO Residential, HERO Commercial, and PACE Funding for residential and/or commercial properties. Information about these programs is available at: PACE Nation or Open PACE or at Hero Program
Commercial Energy Conservation Ordinance (CECO)
CECO requires commercial property owners to complete certain energy conservation measures in their buildings upon transfer of property ownership or when additions or renovations are made.
Commercial Energy Conservation Ordinance (CECO)
Fire Districts
After the 1991 Oakland-Berkeley Hills Fire, the City of Berkeley established two fire zones, encompassing portions of the City where structures may be more vulnerable to fire due to topography, vegetation and location of nearby parks.
In Fire Zone Two, the Berkeley Building Code requires that new structures and modifications to existing structures have safety features such as non-combustible decks, Class A roofs, protection of exterior walls with fire-resistive materials, double glazed windows, protection of eaves and overhangs, and the enclosing of under floor areas.
Requirements for Fire Zone Three include all the requirements of Fire Zone Two, plus fire warning systems, protection of utilities, and control of vegetation.
Berkeley Municipal Code (Sections 19.28.140 – 19.28.170)
Flood Zone
Properties located within “100 year” flood zones must have Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) flood Insurance and the lowest base floor elevation must be 2 feet above the 100-year flood level. FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Map Community Panel Number 06004 0002 A, Effective September 1, 1978.
Berkeley Municipal Code (Section 17.12)
Sidewalk Repair Program
Effective October 1, 2011, the City of Berkeley began sharing equally the liability and repair costs for broken sidewalks with property owners. Find more information at Berkeley Sidewalk Program or call (510) 981-6409
Designated Landmark Properties
The City has designated a number of individual and groups of properties as landmarks or structures of merit in accordance with Berkeley Municipal Code Chapter 3.24. In some cases, these properties have also been identified as state or national landmarks. These designations generally mean the Landmarks Preservation Commission must approve construction, alteration, or demolition of structures on these properties.
For more information contact Architect LEED AP Sr. Historic Preservation Planner at: (510) 981-7429
Rent Control
The City of Berkeley Rent Stabilization and Eviction for Good Cause Ordinance regulates most residential rents in Berkeley. Owners of rental property covered by the Ordinance are required to register their units with the City of Berkeley by filing registration statements and paying annual registration fees, which cover the program’s cost. To find current information regarding the Rent Stabilization board, can be found at BerkeleyRSBWebsite. Additional resources are available at:
New laws and regulations for 2017-2018: New Laws
Regulations of the Rent Stabilization Board: RegulationsBerkeleyRentStabilizationBoard
Rent Board Regulation Change Archives: BerkeleyRentBoardChangeArchives
Current Market Medians: BerkeleyCurrentMarketMedians2017
Rental Property Inspection Program
The City of Berkeley Rental Property Inspection Program inspects rental properties for health, safety, and fire violations based on complaints from tenants, neighbors, or when deferred maintenance is visible from the street. Fees permits and repairs are the responsibility of the landlord. Details are available at BerkeleyHousingCode.
New Tenant Buyout Ordinance
Effective April 30, 2016, the City of Berkeley enacted new rights and obligations regarding “buyout” agreements. These include any promise to permanently vacate a controlled rental unit in Berkeley for compensation from the landlord. Additional information can be found at TenantBuyoutOrdinance.
Bonds/Assessments
The city of Berkeley has a number of bonds and assessments. Some are formulated based on the square footage of the structure; others are based on the square footage of the lot and some are based on the formula multiplied by the real property value.
Additional Tax Information
The Alameda County Assessor Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
For more information call: (510) 272-3787
Tree Preservation Ordinance
The City of Berkeley has stringent regulations regarding Coast Live Oak Trees, including prohibiting removal of said trees or pruning of stems or limbs that may be excessive or injurious to the tree. Exceptions may be made by the City Manager, or their designee when any tree described in this Ordinance is a potential threat to life or limb or is a danger to property. Find details at CoastLiveOakTreeOrdinance.
Dog Licenses
Every dog owner must license their dog which is four months or older. This license must be renewed annually. For additional information go to: BerkeleyAnimalLicensing
Type/Term 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year
Unsterilized $75.00 N/A N/A
Sterilized $15.00 N/A $40
Unsterilized Cat Licenses
Cat has not been spayed or neutered – $75
Alameda County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Local Transfer Tax*
(The new local transfer tax rate is based on a sliding scale)
For properties with a full value of $1,500,00 or less the rate is still $15.00 per each thousand
For properties with a full value greater than $1,500,000 the new rate is $25 per $1,000. The new percentage for those types of properties is 2.5%
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Alameda County property tax bill, visit Alameda County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Albany
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Code: 94507
Population: 16,078
Median household income: $207,008
Call the Danville Chamber of Commerce: (925) 837-4400
Housing Information
Housing units: 5,378
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 98.1%
Homeownership rate: 88.5%
Average persons per household: 2.89
Public School District K-12
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Division: (925) 674-7200
Business License: (925) 674-7200
Cable and/or Phone – AT&T: (800) 332-1321
Cable and/or Phone – Comcast: (800) 945-2288
Electricity – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Environmental Services: (925) 313-2000
Finance Department – Administration Division: (925) 313-2000
Fire Department – San Ramon Valley Fire Protection: (925) 838-6640
Garbage – Republic Sanitary Service (510) 262-7100
Gas – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Housing Authority: (925) 957-8000
Permit Department: (925) 674-7744
Planning/Zoning Department: (925) 681-4200
Sheriff Department: (925) 608-8383
Public Works: (925) 313-2000
Recycling – Recycle Smart: (925) 906-1801
School District – San Ramon Unified School District: (925) 552-5500
Water – EBMUD: (866) 403-2683
Online Resources
Alamo Website: Here
Danville Area Chamber of Commerce: Here
San Ramon Valley Unified School District: Here
Board of Supervisors, District II: Supervisor-Candace-Andersen
Alamo Municipal Advisory Council: AlamoMAC
Alamo Improvement Association: Here
Contra Costa Housing Authority: Here
U.S. Census Bureau: AlamoQuickFacts
Sign Location
Only on the property for sale.
# of Signs Allowed
One.
Maximum Sign Height
Three feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Three square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
No requirements.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Day of open house.
Contact Information
Code Enforcement: (877) 646-8314
County Ordinance
Additional Tax Information
The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
Call Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office: (925) 957-5280
Rent Control
Contra Costa County does not have a rent control ordinance.
Special Study or Planning Zones
None.
Rental Dwelling Unit Maintenance and Inspection Ordinance
Alamo complies with the County ordinance for inspecting dwelling units, found here: ContraCostaCoRentalInspections
In general, every property owner of a rental dwelling unit in the unincorporated area of the county shall:
Maintain the rental dwelling unit and its premises so that no substandard condition exists at the rental dwelling unit or on the premises;
Correct all substandard conditions before a re-inspection occurs; and
Be liable for violations of this chapter regardless of any contract or agreement with any third party concerning the rental dwelling unit and its premises.
Dog Licenses
Dog & Cat Licenses: Any owner of a dog or cat must obtain a license for their animals. Detailed information can be found at: ContraCostaCoPetLicensing
Type/Term 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year
Unsterilized $40.00 $74.00 $110.00
Sterilized $20.00 $37.00 $55.00
Senior Citizen (65+) Discount Available
Contra Costa County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.0937%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Contra Costa County property tax bill, visit Contra Costa County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Alamo
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Code: 94507
Population: 16,078
Median household income: $207,008
Call the Danville Chamber of Commerce: (925) 837-4400
Housing Information
Housing units: 5,378
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 98.1%
Homeownership rate: 88.5%
Average persons per household: 2.89
Public School District K-12
San Ramon Valley Unified School District
Call the San Ramon Valley Unified School District: (925) 552-5500
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Division: (925) 674-7200
Business License: (925) 674-7200
Cable and/or Phone – AT&T: (800) 332-1321
Cable and/or Phone – Comcast: (800) 945-2288
Electricity – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Environmental Services: (925) 313-2000
Finance Department – Administration Division: (925) 313-2000
Fire Department – San Ramon Valley Fire Protection: (925) 838-6640
Garbage – Republic Sanitary Service: (510) 262-7100
Gas – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Housing Authority: (925) 957-8000
Permit Department: (925) 674-7744
Planning/Zoning Department: (925) 681-4200
Sheriff Department: (925) 608-8383
Public Works: (925) 313-2000
Recycling – Recycle Smart: (925) 906-1801
School District – San Ramon Unified School District: (925) 552-5500
Water – EBMUD: (866) 403-2683
Online Resources
Alamo Website: Here
Danville Area Chamber of Commerce: Here
San Ramon Valley Unified School District: Here
Board of Supervisors, District II: Supervisor-Candace-Andersen
Alamo Municipal Advisory Council: AlamoMAC
Alamo Improvement Association: Here
Contra Costa Housing Authority: Here
U.S. Census Bureau: AlamoQuickFacts
Sign Location
Only on the property for sale.
# of Signs Allowed
One.
Maximum Sign Height
Three feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Three square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
No requirements.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Day of open house.
Contact Information
Code Enforcement: (877) 646-8314
County Ordinance
Additional Tax Information
The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
Call Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office: (925) 957-5280
Rent Control
Contra Costa County does not have a rent control ordinance.
Special Study or Planning Zones
None.
Rental Dwelling Unit Maintenance and Inspection Ordinance
Alamo complies with the County ordinance for inspecting dwelling units, found here: ContraCostaCoRentalInspections In general, every property owner of a rental dwelling unit in the unincorporated area of the county shall:
Maintain the rental dwelling unit and its premises so that no substandard condition exists at the rental dwelling unit or on the premises;
Correct all substandard conditions before a re-inspection occurs; and
Be liable for violations of this chapter regardless of any contract or agreement with any third party concerning the rental dwelling unit and its premises.
Dog Licenses
Dog & Cat Licenses: Any owner of a dog or cat must obtain a license for their animals. Detailed information can be found at: ContraCostaCoPetLicensing
Type/Term 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year
Unsterilized $40.00 $74.00 $110.00
Sterilized $20.00 $37.00 $55.00
Senior Citizen (65+) Discount Available
Contra Costa County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.0937%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Contra Costa County property tax bill, visit Contra Costa County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Alameda County Unincorporated
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
Ashland
Zip Code: 94541
Population: 21,925
Castlewood
Zip Code: 94588
Population: unknown
Castro Valley
Zip Code: 94546
Population: 61,388
Cherryland
Zip Code: 94580
Population: 14,728
Fairview
Zip Code: 94541
Population: 10,003
San Lorenzo
Zip Code: 94580
Population: 23,452
Sunol
Zip Code: 94586
Population: 913
See individual city reports.
See individual city reports.
Sign Location
Two signs permitted per lot, six square feet maximum area per sign.
# of Signs Allowed
2 signs per lot.
Maximum Sign Height
No restrictions.
Maximum Sign Area
Six square feet maximum area per sign.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
It is unlawful to place an open house sign in the median. Signs may not be illuminated.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
No restrictions, however the Alameda County Planning Department recommends placing and removing open house signs the same day as the property is being held open.
Contact Information
Planning: (510) 670-5400
Municipal Code
Aircraft Noise
There are several airports in and around Alameda County that may create a certain level of noise and have flight patterns subject to change. Airport information:
Livermore Airport – 636 Terminal Circle, Livermore, CA: (925) 960-8220
Meadowlark Field Airport- 4300 Greenville Road, Livermore, CA: (925) 606-1536
Hayward Executive Airport – 20301 Skywest Drive, Hayward, CA: (510) 293-8678
Little Hands Airport – 18320 Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon, CA: (415) 837-8981
Oakland International – Airport 1 Airport Drive, Oakland, CA: (510) 563-3300
Flood/Fire/Seismic
Portions of Unincorporated areas of Alameda County are located in flood, fire, and/or seismic zones.
Call for Flood Information: (510) 670-5480
Call for Fire Information: (510) 670-5853
Call for Seismic Information: (510) 464-7900
Tree Ordinance
The County Tree Ordinance requires property owners planning to perform any of the following activities to obtain an approved permit from the Alameda County Public Works Agency: Pruning/ Trimming of branches over one (1) inch in diameter (permits are not required for minor pruning of branches one (1″) inch in diameter or less), planting or removing a tree.
Watercourse Protection
Every person owning property through which a watercourse passes, or said person’s lessee or tenant, shall keep and maintain that part of the watercourse within said property reasonably free of trash, debris, excessive vegetation and other obstacles which would pollute, contaminate or significantly retard the flow of water through the watercourse; shall maintain existing privately owned structures within or adjacent to a watercourse, so that such structures will not become a hazard to the use, function or physical integrity of the watercourse; and shall not remove healthy bank vegetation beyond that actually necessary for said maintenance or other maintenance specified in Section 13.12.190C of this chapter, nor remove said vegetation in such a manner as to increase the vulnerability of the watercourse to erosion.
Watercourse Protection Ordinance
Real Estate Developer and Rehabilitation of Real Estate
Every person engaged in the business of developing or rehabilitating and selling real property in which said person has equity, interest or title, and not specifically taxed by Section 3.04.350 or other provisions of this chapter, shall pay a business tax of one dollar and twenty-five cents ($1.25) for each thousand dollars ($1,000.00) of permit value for building permits obtained for work engaged in at sites within the unincorporated areas of the county.
Real Estate Rehabilitation Ordinance
Sidewalk Repair Program
The Sidewalk Repair Program applies only to single-family residential units in the following five county communities within County Planning Area 2: Ashland, Castro Valley/Fairmont, Cherryland, Unincorporated Hayward/Fairview, and San Lorenzo/Royal Sunset.
Funded through Measure B funds, this program will reimburse 50% of the sidewalk repair cost per property (or up to $750, whichever is less) for sidewalk-related repairs to the frontage of a single family residential parcel within Planning Area 2. Homeowners residing in San Lorenzo may be eligible for additional assistance through Redevelopment funds.
Call Public Works for More Information: (510) 670-5500
Flood Benefit Assessment
The Alameda County Flood Control and Water Conservation District levies benefit assessments to help finance flood control operations. These assessments are proportionate to the runoff from each parcel of land. The program applies to all Alameda County with the exception of the Cities of Albany, Berkeley, Alameda, Piedmont, and the Zone 7 area east of the hills (Livermore-Amador Valley).
Call Assessor’s Office for More Information: (510) 272-3787
Additional Tax Information
The Alameda County Assessor Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments.
Rent Control
The County of Alameda has a rent control ordinance for mobile home parks. The Ordinance specifies the maximum space rental increase cannot exceed 5% annually unless the Board of Supervisors approves a request for a higher increase.
Business License Requirements
You must obtain a business license from Alameda County only if you are conducting any type of business, including leasing residential and commercial property, or your business is based in an unincorporated area of Alameda County.
Alameda County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Newark
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Code: 94560
Population: 44,723
Median household income: $91,965
Call the Newark Chamber of Commerce: (510) 578-4500
Housing Information
Housing units: 13,414
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 81.1%
Homeownership rate: 68.6%
Average persons per household: 3.28
Public School District K-12
Newark Unified School District
Call the Newark Unified School District: (510) 818-4103
10 Largest Employers
Newark Unified School District |
---|
Logitech |
Amazon |
WorldPac |
Full Bloom Baking |
Risk Management Solutions |
Smart Modular Technologies |
Morpho Detection |
Cargill Salt |
City of Newark |
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Inspections: (510) 578-4261
City Clerk’s Office: (510) 578-4266
Electricity: (800) 743-5000
Finance Department: (510) 578-4310
Fire Department: (510) 578-4000
Gas: (800) 743-5000
Information & Assistance: (510) 578-4000
Planning Department: (510) 578-4215
Police Department: (510) 578-4237
School District: (510) 818-4103
Union Sanitary District: (510) 477-7500
Sign Location
No sign shall be located in or project into the public right-of-way. No sign shall be located at or near any street intersection or any street and driveway intersection so as to create a traffic hazard by obstructing vision.
# of Signs Allowed
One on-site.
Maximum Sign Height
Four feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Four square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
Sign must include company name, address and telephone number.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.
Contact Information
Planning: (510) 578-4330
Municipal Code
Tree Preservation Ordinance
No person shall cut down, destroy, remove or move any tree which shall include any live woody plant having one or more well defined perennial stems with a trunk diameter of six inches or greater, measured at four feet above ground level growing within the city limits on any parcels of land except developed residential parcels of land ten thousand square feet or less in area, unless a permit to do so has been obtained from the public works director.
Landscaping
A minimum of twenty-five percent of the site area shall be landscaped and permanently maintained. No landscaped strip or tree pocket smaller than thirty square feet may be counted toward the total required landscaping. At least half of the landscaped area shall be provided along the public right(s)-of-way next to or near sidewalks. All on-site surface parking areas shall be screened from view from the street by landscaping, a wall, or combination of the two. Landscaping shall include street trees as specified by the planning director. A landscaping plan, showing locations, size and varieties of plant materials and automatic or semi-automatic irrigation system shall be submitted for approval.
Parking and Storage
No portion of any required front yard or required street side yard shall be used for the parking, storage, construction, repair, maintenance or accumulation of vehicles, equipment, lumber, building materials, appliances, household goods, furniture, discarded items, trash, garbage, garbage receptacles, debris, trimmings from lawns, shrubbery or trees or any other objects not customarily and directly related to landscape treatment. Items stored in any other yard area shall be effectively screened from view from adjacent lots and public rights-of-way by fences, walls, solid hedges or other permitted structures and shall not constitute a nuisance as defined in Chapter 8.24 of this code. Campers which have been removed from the transporting vehicle and which are stored on driveways shall be situated as close to the ground as is practicable and shall not present a hazard to persons entering the driveway or passing by in the public right-of-way.
Wall and Fence Restrictions
The City of Newark has very specific height requirements for fences and hedges depending on the location and orientation of a property.
Mello-Roos Tax and Special Assessment Districts
There are specific assessment districts within the city of Newark.
Call the Finance Department:(510) 578-4310
Additional Tax Information
The Alameda County Assessor Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
Call the Alameda County Tax Assessor:(510) 272-3787
Business License Fee on Rental Property
Owners of four or more units are required to have a City business license.
Call the Finance Department:(510) 578-4310
Dumbarton Transit-Oriented Development
The Dumbarton Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) is a proposed new neighborhood that will provide a broad range of new housing, retail and business opportunities in Western Newark. A draft of the Specific Plan for the Dumbarton TOD Project is available from the Planning Department. An illustrative plan showing the likely configurations of the development is included in the Specific Plan. The Dumbarton TOD is to be located next to a proposed commuter rail station near the corner of Willow Street and Enterprise Drive.
Planning Areas 3 and 4
This is an approximately 950 acre site located in southwest Newark and is generally bounded by Mowry Avenue on the north, Cherry Street on the east, Stevenson Boulevard on the south, and salt flats on the west. Planned uses for this area include an 18-hole golf course, approximately 1,200 housing units of various densities, and elementary school, open space wetland mitigation areas, as well as retention of existing light industrial, institutional, and City Fire Station, park, and community center uses.
Alameda County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.2008%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Alameda County property tax bill, visit Alameda County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Alameda
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Codes: 94501, 94502
Population: 79,177
Median household income: $89,045
Alameda Chamber of Commerce website
Call the Alameda Chamber of Commerce: (510) 522-0414
Housing Information
Housing units: 32,351
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 53.4%
Median value of owner-occupied housing units, 2010 -2014: $628,500
Average persons per household: 2.46
Median gross rent, 2010 – 2014: $1,375
Government & Community Contact Information
Cable: (510) 749-5896
Electricity: (510) 748-3901
Fire Department: (510) 337-2100
Garbage: (510) 430-8509
Gas: (800) 743-5000
Permit Department & History: (510) 747-6800
Planning Department: (510) 748-4554
Police Department: (510) 337-8340
Recycling: (510) 483-1400
School District: (510) 337-7000
Water: (866) 403-2683
Sign Location
Signs may not be placed on public property except for medians of public roads and sidewalks. Signs may not be placed on medians or sidewalks in a manner which obstructs pedestrian or vehicular traffic, or lines of sight.
# of Signs Allowed
Six.
Maximum Sign Height
Four feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Four square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
None.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Signs may not be placed more than two hours prior to the open house and must be removed within hours after the open house.
Contact Information
Code Enforcement: (510) 747-6817
Municipal Code
Sewer Lateral Testing and Repair
The sewer lateral of any property located in the City of Alameda must be tested and all necessary repairs or replacements performed when the property is transferred. This requirement applies to any building or structure constructed more than 20 years prior to the transfer. All required repair or replacement work shall be completed prior to the transfer of title. Alternatively, funds may be retained in escrow sufficient to complete the work within 90 days, if permitted by, and subject to any conditions required by, the Building Official in consultation with the Director.
Exemptions: Sewer lateral testing shall not be required where the property owner, homeowners’ association, or responsible party for residential and non-residential buildings can present proof to the Building Official that the lateral is less than 20 years old or has been repaired within the last seven years. Read about Private Sewer Lateral
For more information call the Alameda Community Development Department:
(510) 747-6800
Automatic Gas Shutoff Valve
When a property is transferred in the City of Alameda an automatic gas shutoff permit must be obtained prior to entering into an agreement for sale or prior to the close of escrow. For more information call the City of Alameda Community Development Department: (510) 747-6850
Alameda County Historic Preservation Ordinance
Any building that was constructed prior to 1942 shall not be demolished or removed without the approval of a certificate of approval issued by the Historical Advisory Board. The age of the building shall be determined by a review of the City records. Additionally, no protected structure shall be demolished or removed without the approval of a certificate of approval issued by the Historical Advisory Board. Protected structures shall mean non-building building resources listed on the Historical Building Study List. For more information call: (510) 747-7400
Seismic Retrofit
The City of Alameda has many multi-unit residential structures that are classified as soft-story (where open store fronts or garages are tucked under the building) and may be deemed potentially hazardous in the event of an earthquake. The city can provide information for about residential seismic strengthening requirements.
Call the City of Alameda Community Development Department: (510) 747-6850
Landfills
Areas of Alameda are built on former landfills.
Airports
Aircraft departing and arriving at Oakland and San Francisco Airports can create noise in some areas.
Underground Fuel Tanks
The location of underground fuel tanks is available from the Fire Department. This list is based on permits filed for tank installation. Some tanks may have been removed without permits, therefore the list does not warrant that a tank is still on the property.
Mello-Roos Tax and Special Assessment Districts
There are some city assessments that are determined by assessor’s parcel number. These may include but are not limited to lighting and landscaping assessment, fire assessment, emergency medical service assessment, clean water assessment, and school districts. Additional taxes may include Mello Roos Community Facilities tax or 1915 Bond Assessment.
Alameda Landing Development
On December 3, 2013, Alameda City Council voted 4-0 to move forward on a pair of proposed special districts encompassing the Alameda Landing development that, if approved would allow the city to levy additional taxes.
Marina Village/Harbor Bay
These areas have both a Communities Facility District tax and a bond assessment.
Additional Tax Information
The Alameda County Assessor Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
Lookup Current Taxes For more information call: (510) 272-3787
Rent Control
The City of Alameda limits rent increases on certain units and the grounds for terminating tenancies for all rental units. More information about these requirements are available here.
Rent Review
Beginning January 13, 2013, every lease or other agreement for the occupancy of a unit in a multi-unit rental complex (defined as two or more units) shall include the following:
- A clause stating that smoking is prohibited in the non-smoking unit.
- A clause stating that it’s a material breach of the lease to violate any law regulating smoking while on the premises.
Business License Fee on Rental Property
Owners of rental property are charged $20.00 per rental unit. All licenses expire on June 30; fees for new licenses are prorated from August to June.
More Information
Alameda County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
$12.00
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Alameda County property tax bill, visit Alameda County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Fremont
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Reports
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Codes: 94536, 94538, 94539, 94555
Population: 243,962
Median household income: $114,000
Call the Fremont Chamber of Commerce: (510) 795-2244
Housing Information
Housing units: 76,000
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 73.4%
Homeownership rate: 63.5%
Average persons per household: 3.07
Public School District K-12
Fremont Unified School District
Call the Fremont Unified School District: (510) 657-2350
10 Largest Employers
Tesla |
---|
Fremont Unified School District |
Washington Hospital |
Western Digital |
Lam Research Corporation |
Seagate Magnetics |
Palo Alto Medical Foundation |
Thermo Fisher Scientific |
Synnex Information Technologies |
Safeway |
Government & Community Contact Information
Alameda County Office: (510) 494-4637
Building Inspections: (510) 494-4400
Community Preservation: (510) 494-4430
Electricity: (800) 743-5000
Environmental Services: (510) 494-4570
Fire Department: (510) 494-4200
Garbage: (510) 657-3500
Gas: (800) 743-5000
Housing Department: (510) 494-4500
Planning Department: (510) 494-4440
Planning Division: (510) 494-4455
Plans & Permits: (510) 494-4440
Police Department: (510) 790-6800
School District: (510) 657-2350
Online Resources
City Website: City of Fremont
Fremont Chamber of Commerce: Here
Fremont Unified School District: Here
Housing Authority of the County of Alameda: Here
East Bay Rental Housing Association: Here
U.S. Census Bureau: FremontQuickFacts
Sign Location
Sign Location
Signs may be placed on private property and in a planter strip between the street and the sidewalk. If there is no planter strip, they may be located on the edge of a sidewalk so long as a three foot clear accessible walkway remains. In no case may a sign be located on streets, center medians or pedestrian ramps.
# of Signs Allowed
One sign per single or two-family lot in a residential subdivision. No restrictions on number of open house signs displayed.
Maximum Sign Height
Three feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Three square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
Name and phone number of the broker, agent or owner/seller must on the sign. No illumination. Authorization of affected private property owner shall be secured prior to placement of signs on private property.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Weekends 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. One day a week for broker open house.
Contact Information
Planning: (510) 494-4455
Municipal Code
Historic Resource Ordinance
Certain areas within the city of Fremont are designated as historic areas and may be subject to review by the Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB). Some restrictions may apply as to exterior renovation or demolition of buildings with this designation. Call the Planning Department:(510) 494-4440
Energy Efficiency Program Financing – Property Assessed Clean Energy (“PACE”)
Financing is available to property owners engaging in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and water conservation upgrades to buildings. PACE financing is attached to the home, repaid through the property tax bill, and is transferred to subsequent owners until paid off. Berkeley participates in the CaliforniaFIRST Program, CSCDA Open PACE, HERO Residential, HERO Commercial, and PACE Funding for residential and/or commercial properties. Information about these programs is available at: PACE Nation or Open PACE or at Hero Program
Additional Tax Information
The Alameda County Assessor Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.Lookup Current TaxesCall the Alameda County Tax Assessor:
(510) 272-3787
Rent Control
The City of Fremont does not have a rent control ordinance.
Soft-Story Residential Buildings Retrofit Ordinance
Fremont’s mandatory soft-story ordinance requires retrofitting by owners. This ordinance applies to wood-frame, multi-unit residential buildings constructed before January 1, 1978, where the ground floor portion of the wood frame structure contains parking or other similar open floor space that causes soft, weak, or open wall lines, and having one or more levels above the ground floor. Ordinance language can be found at FremontSoftStoryOrdinance and FremontSeismicOrdinance
Smoke Detectors & Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Smoke Detectors & Carbon Monoxide Alarm Self-Certification, located at FireSafetyCertificationForm, must be completed and returned to the City of Fremont Building Inspector prior to final sign-off of all required permits.
Active Assessments and Bonds
There are currently two facilities bonds and a paramedic assessment tax active in the city of Fremont. Find details at: FremontBonds/Assessments. For property-specific information, contact the Alameda County Assessor’s Office (510) 272-3787 or search online at: AlamedaCountyPropertyTaxes.
Special Study or Planning Zones
Some properties in Fremont are located in fire, earthquake or flood zones. Property-specific information is available from:
- Flood – Fremont Engineering Department (510) 494-4700 or http://www.msc.fema.gov
- Fire – Fremont Fire Department (510) 494-4280
- Earthquake – Fremont Engineering Department (510) 494-4700
Fire Extinguishing Systems Retrofit for Apartment Buildings
According to the Fremont Central Corridor Retrofit Ordinance, every corridor serving 10 or more dwelling units shall be protected by an automatic fire extinguishing system. The scope of the protection includes NFPA 13 or NFPA 13R automatic fire extinguishing systems as determined by the fire chief or their designee. Ordinance language is located at FremontFireRetrofitOrdinance.
Dog Licenses
Fremont residents are required to license their dog or cat within 30 days of acquiring a cat or dog that is over four months old, owning a cat or dog turning four months old, or moving to Fremont with a cat or dog. In most residential areas of Fremont, a pet owner is required to obtain an Animal Permit to keep exotic pets or more than two dogs or four cats. FremontPetLicensing.
- Type/Term 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year
- Unsterilized $25.00 $35.00 $42.00
- Sterilized $12.00 $17.00 $21.00
- Senior citizens 60 and over, providing proof of age, receive a 10% discount on a one, two, or three year license. Pet owners presenting evidence of qualification for the CARE Program or California LifeLine Service are eligible for free pet licenses.
- Replacement Tags – $5.00 per Dog Tag
Rent Increase Ordinance
All rent increase notices shall be in writing and landlords are encouraged to provide at least 90 calendar days’ notice of any rent increase in order to allow for the orderly operation of the dispute resolution. Unless otherwise agreed by the parties in writing, rent increases shall be limited to one increase in any consecutive 12-month period. There is a very specific process that must be followed.Read Residential Rent Increase Dispute Resolution Ordinance Call the City of Fremont Housing Division:(510) 494-4500
Business Tax on Rental Property
Every person conducting, carrying on, or managing any business of offering for lease or rent any residential real property, commercial real property or industrial real property shall pay an annual business tax of $1.30 for each $1,000 of gross receipts. For purposes of this section, persons who rent, lease or manage no more than four residential dwelling units shall not be deemed to be in business. This exception shall not apply to persons who rent five or more residential dwelling units, or who rent any commercial or industrial real property in the city. Persons who rent commercial or industrial real property in the city shall also report all residential units.Read Residential Rent Increase Dispute Resolution Ordinance Call the City of Fremont Housing Division: (510) 494-4500
Automatic Fire Extinguishing Systems Retrofit for Apartment Buildings
In dwelling units of 10 or more, every corridor serving more than 10 dwelling units shall be protected by an automatic fire extinguishing system. The scope of the protection shall include NFPA 13 or NFPA 13R automatic fire extinguishing systems. The fire chief or designee will determine the level of the automatic fire-extinguishing system to be provided.Read Automatic Fire Extinguishing Ordinance
Call the City of Fremont Housing Division: (510) 494-4500
Special Study or Planning Zones
There are properties in Fremont that are located in earthquake, flood or fire zones. For information about a specific property call the City of Fremont. Earthquake & Flood – Call the Engineering Department: (510) 494-4700
Fire – Call the Fire Department: (510) 494-4280
Alameda County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.1740%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Alameda County property tax bill, visit Alameda County Assessor and follow these instructions.
Antioch
- Community Overview
- Contact Information & Resources
- Housing Market Information
- Open House Sign Ordinance
- Potential Disclosures
- Tax Information
City Information
Zip Codes: 94509, 94531
Population: 110,876
Median household income: $81,203
Call the Antioch Chamber of Commerce: (925) 757-1800
Housing Information
Housing units: 33,976
Percent of housing stock that is Single-Family Detached Homes: 82.9%
Homeownership rate: 63.6%
Average persons per household: 3.18
Public School District K-12
Antioch Unified School District
Call the Antioch Unified School District: (925) 779-7500
10 Largest Employers
Kaiser Permanente |
---|
Antioch Unified School District |
Sutter Delta Medical Center |
Contra Costa County Social Services |
Walmart |
Costco |
Target |
City of Antioch |
Antioch Auto Center |
Safeway |
Government & Community Contact Information
Building Division: (925) 779-7065
Business License: (925) 779-7059
Cable and/or Phone – AT&T: (800) 332-1321
Cable and/or Phone – Comcast: (800) 945-2288
Electricity – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Environmental Services: (925) 779-6137
Finance Department – Administration Division: (925) 779-7055
Fire Department – Contra Costa County Fire Protection: (925) 941-3300
Garbage – Allied Waste: (925) 685-4711
Gas – PG&E: (800) 743-5000
Housing Department: (888) 572-1222
Permit Department: (925) 779-7065
Planning/Zoning Department: (925) 779-7035
Police Department – Antioch Police Department: (925) 778-2441
Public Works: (925) 779-6950
Recycling: (925) 779-6137
Rent Stabilization – Neighborhood Stabilization Program: (925) 779-7013
School District – Antioch Unified School District: (925) 779-7500
Water – City of Antioch: (925) 779-7060
Online Resources
City Website: City of Antioch
Antioch Chamber of Commerce: Here
Antioch Unified School District: Here
Contra Costa County Housing Authority: Here
Sign Location
Off-site signs shall be located no further from the property advertised than the closest major thoroughfare intersection. Signs shall not be located in the public right-of-way.
# of Signs Allowed
Three.
Maximum Sign Height
Four feet.
Maximum Sign Area
Four square feet.
Sign Text & Other Requirements
Name and phone number of agent and/or agency. Open house signs must be A-frame. Signs shall not be attached to any utility pole, fence, tree, or other vegetation or upon any public right-of-way.
Days and Times Signs may be Displayed
Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays only between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to dusk. No sign shall be left overnight.
Contact Information
Engineering and Development Services Division: (925) 779-7035
Municipal Code
Mello Roos Tax and Special Assessment Districts
The City of Antioch has three Community Facilities Districts (CDFs).
Mello Roos Tax and Special Assessment Districts
The City of Antioch paid off its Mello Roos funding in 2016 and currently collects Measure C funds for public safety and code enforcement. Contact Contra Costa County Treasurer’s Office for property-specific information (925) 957-5280 or search online by parcel number or street address: ContraCostaTaxInformation
Downtown Specific Plan Update
Visit AntiochCommunityDevelopment
Northeast Antioch Area Reorganization
Three subareas in Contra Costa County are being considered for reorganization (annexation or incorporation) into the City of Antioch and the Delta Diablo Sanitation District (DDSD). The three subareas are located generally south of the Sacramento County line along the San Joaquin River in the vicinity of Wilbur Avenue, west of the City of Oakley, north and east of the boundaries of the City of Antioch. All three subareas are located in unincorporated Contra Costa County and all are also within the City of Antioch’s sphere of influence.
Additional Tax Information
The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may have additional information about property-specific taxes or assessments. You may look up a property by its parcel number or street address.
Lookup Current Taxes
Call Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office: (925) 957-5280
Residential Landlord Business Tax
In 2014, taxpayers passed Measure O, which subjects all landlords of multi-unit and single-family home rentals to a business license tax. Unlicensed or prospective landlords should contact Antioch Business License Department (925) 779-7059 or visit here.
Rent Control
The City of Antioch does not have a rent control ordinance.
Contra Costa County Transfer Tax
($ per thousand of sale or transfer price)
$1.10
per each thousand
Property Tax Rate*
($ per thousand of assessed value)
1.0937%
per each thousand
* This is not the rate for all properties. A detailed Property Tax Bill with the most accurate Property Tax Rate can be found at the Tax Assessor’s website. If you’d like to see your Contra Costa County property tax bill, visit Contra Costa County Assessor and follow these instructions.