Frequently Asked Questions

The law defines "public record" broadly to include "any writing containing information relating to the conduct of the public’s business prepared, owned, used or retained by any state or local agency, regardless of the physical form and characteristics." California Government Code Section 6252(g). A document does not have to be in written form to be a public record. A public record may consist of any medium that contains information.

Exempt Records

Every record made or received by the City is presumed to be a public record unless it is subject to an exemption. Exempt records are those that federal, state, or local law prohibits the City from disclosing or permits the City to decline to disclose. The custodian of records must either give you a copy of the requested record or provide you with a written justification of why the record is not public.

• Online form for Public Records Request

No. You may make an oral or written request. However, it is recommended that you put your request in writing so there is a clear record of your request. A written request that is clear and concise also helps to respond to your request in an efficient manner.

There is no specific form that must be used to request records, nor is there any language you must use in your request. However, you must provide a reasonable description of the desired records. To expedite the processing of your request, you should be as specific as possible.

Generally, the City must respond to a request to inspect or copy records within ten days. In "unusual circumstances," the City may extend its time to respond by an additional fourteen calendar days. The City will inform you in writing within the initial ten-day period if an extension is necessary to respond to your request.

Unusual Circumstances

"Unusual circumstances" permitting the extension are limited to the need to: 

• Search for and collect the requested records from facilities separate from the office processing the request.
• Search for, collect, and appropriately examine a voluminous amount of separate and distinct records included in a single request.
• Consult with another part of the department or with another department that has a substantial interest in the response to the request.

The department may charge you for the direct cost of duplication of copies of records. The department may charge you a higher fee if it prepares and posts an itemized cost analysis establishing that the per-page direct cost exceeds ten cents per page. Where you request a copy of a record in other than a paper format, the department may charge you for the cost of the medium on which the information is duplicated (e.g. a computer disc). In addition, a department may charge you for the postage of sending you the records.

No. You do not have to give the City a reason for reviewing the record. City employees, however, may ask questions relating to your request if it helps them respond to the request or direct you to another department that may have the records you seek.

Please contact the City official who denied your request to discuss the matter. If you still feel that the record you have requested is a public record and the City official disagrees, you may sue in court to enforce your right to inspect or receive copies of any public record pursuant to the Public Records Act. California Government Code Sections 6258 and 6259. If you prevail, you may be entitled to recover costs and reasonable attorneys’ fees. Alternatively, if the court finds the case to be frivolous, you may be liable to the City to recover its costs and reasonable attorneys’ fees.

The Human Resources Department is located at:

360 90th St.

Civi Center North 

Daly City, CA 94015

We are open from 8 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday, except holidays.

For all job seeker inquiries, please refer to our Job Seeker Resources.

No, we are not the Social Security office. However, the nearest Social Security Office is located at:
355 Gellert Boulevard
Daly City, CA 94015

You can also visit the United States Social Security website.

No, we are not the Employment Development Department (EDD). If you need assistance with unemployment inquiries, you may contact the nearest EDD office located in San Francisco at 415-749-7503. You can also visit the Employment Development Department website.

No, we are not Human Services Agency. If you need assistance with Medi-Cal, Medicare, or CalFresh Electronic Benefits Transfer cards, you may visit the nearest Human Services Agency office located at:
271 92nd Street
Daly City, CA 94015

You can contact their office 650-301-8440. You can also visit the Human Services Agency website.

The City Attorney is appointed by the City Council.

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

• Bay Area Legal Aid
• Legal Aid Society of San Mateo County
• San Mateo County Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service

The Municipal Code may be viewed online or at the Office of the City Clerk at:
333 - 90th Street
Daly City, CA 94015

Please contact the Code Enforcement Division at 650-991-8260 or at:
333 - 90th Street
Daly City, CA 94015

Please contact the Department of Public Works at 650-991-8038 or use Daly City iHelp for issues related to:

• Construction Problems
• Graffiti
• Litter/Debris
• Pavement Conditions/Potholes
• Playground/City Building
• Sidewalks
• Stop Signs
• Street Lights
• Street Maintenance
• Traffic Signals

The Office of the City Clerk maintains records of official City documents. You may contact their office at 650-991-8078.

The City has a standard claim form that can be used for your convenience. Completed forms must be filed with the Office of the City Clerk, located at:
 333 - 90th Street
Daly City, CA 94015

Click here to view more information regarding claims.

You may print this form (PDF) or pick up a copy at the Office of the City Clerk. You may also call the Office of the City Clerk at 650-991-8078 to request a copy to be mailed to you.

Generally, a claim relating to death or injury to a person or to personal property should be filed within six months from the date of occurrence. For exceptions to this rule, please see California Government Code Section 911.2.

You must provide an itemized breakdown of how you computed the amount claimed. Attach copies of estimates, receipts, wage loss verification, photographs, and any other supporting documents.

The City will investigate your claim and a decision will usually be made to accept or reject the claim within 45 days from the date the claim is submitted, or longer, depending on the complexity. Notice of the decision shall be mailed to you at the address you provide on the claim form.

Please make a request to the appropriate department that maintains the records you are interested in reviewing. If you do not know which department maintains the records you are interested in reviewing, you may submit your request to the Office of the City Attorney.

View more information regarding public records.

The Human Resources Department updates the CalOpps website as soon as a position opens.

The City of Daly City only accepts applications for open positions. Please follow the selection process carefully on the job announcement, which can be obtained by visiting our Human Resources Department or downloading from our job opening website. To apply directly online, visit the CalOpps website.

No, the department does not keep applications on file. If you are interested in a position that is not currently open, complete and submit an interest card. You may do this online or call our office to obtain interest cards.

Our interest cards automatically expire after six months. Should the position open up within the six months the Human Resources Department will send you the application and job bulletin for the position.

Applications may be mailed or delivered to:
Human Resources Department
City of Daly City
360-90th Street
Daly City, CA 94015

Yes. Mailed applications must be postmarked no later than the final filing date.

No, you are required to submit a separate application for each position that you are applying for.

No. We suggest that you make copies of your application in case you wish to apply to future openings.

View directions (PDF) to our frequently used testing facilities.

1. Written examination items are generally multiple choice and responses are marked with a pencil on Scantron answer sheets.
2. Some positions also require a performance examination such as a typing test or a physical agility test.
3. If you pass the written examination, you’ll get written notice of when and where to take the oral examination.
4. Generally, the short oral examination is conducted by a panel of three examiners who ask each candidate predetermined questions.
5. The passing scores from your written and oral examinations are averaged to compute a Final Score. Your name will be ranked on an Employment List. You will be notified in writing of your rank and the life of the list.
6. As vacancies occur, a specified number of candidates will be certified in accordance with the Multiple Factor Certification procedure as set forth in the Rules and Regulations of the Classified Service. The names of certified candidates who are interested in being considered for a vacancy will be referred to the department in which the vacant position exists. The appointing authority makes the appointment.
7. Employment Lists generally expire after two years from promulgation. An oath of allegiance to the United States and to the State of California must be taken before appointment to any position in the City service.

City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Monday nights each month at 7 PM at:

City Hall

Council Chambers
333 90th Street
Daly City, CA 94015

You may address the Council at a regular City Council Meeting during the Oral Comment section of the meeting. You will have two minutes to provide your public comment.

You may contact the City Council’s office at 650-991-8008 or via email at citycouncil@dalycity.org. Additionally, you may send a letter addressed to the City Council, 333 90th Street, Daly City, 94015.

General elections are held every two years on the first Tuesday in November of even-numbered years.

Visit the voter registration website at https://smcacre.gov/elections/voter-registration for more information. You may also obtain a voter registration form at public libraries, San Mateo County’s Elections Office, or the City Clerk’s Office.

Claim forms are available at and received by the City Clerk’s Office. To obtain a form online and view instructions on filing a claim against the City, please visit https://www.dalycity.org/163/.

You may submit the request by filling out the Public Information Request Form on our website https://www.dalycity.org/190/Forms. 

Please visit the City’s residential parking permit page for information and instructions on how to apply https://www.dalycity.org/451/.

You may visit the business license requirements page at https://www.dalycity.org/438/,   email the Business License Division at bl@dalycity.org, or call 650-991-8088.

Please visit the Utility Billing page for payments, or call 650-991-8082.

Please report these and other issues on the City’s iHelp page. If you have questions about illegal dumping, call (650) 991-8224. You may also contact the Streets Division at 650-991-8064.

Please visit the Building Division page or call 650-991-8061 for more information.

Please visit the Police Department’s page for information on police reports: https://www.dalycity.org/568/Police-Reports .

View information on paying parking citations and the appeal process at https://www.pticket.com/.

Please visit the City’s Municipal Code online.

Visit the website https://www.smcgov.org/ to read about services offered by the County.

Please visit the San Mateo County Clerk’s page at https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder for information on Daly City birth certificates, marriage licenses, and death certificates.

• 355 Gellert Boulevard, #201
  Daly City, CA 94015
• Phone: 888-748-7702

You may contact the DMV at 800-777-0133. The DMV office in Daly City is located at 1500 Sullivan Avenue.

• The nearest office is located at:
  630 Sansome Street, Suite 1080
  San Francisco, CA 94111
• Contact Center: 800-375-5283

To initiate the process to create an accessory dwelling unit in a single-family dwelling, the owner will submit plans to the Building Division, complete a Building Permit Application (PDF) and pay plan review fees.

For more information on the requirements, view the basic Accessory Dwelling Unit Requirements (PDF). For residency verification questions, you may contact the Planning Division at 650-991-8033 to speak with a Planner.

Fences come under a “good neighbor” policy. The City does not require fences, nor are permits required to build fences as long as they do not exceed the six foot height limit. Ownership, building, or rebuilding is a matter of agreement between property owners. Should a neighbor not desire to help defray the cost or labor, the other owner can do the work on their own.

For more information, view our Fences and Retaining Walls (PDF) document.

Prior to sale of a house, a Residential Requirements Report (3R) must be obtained from the City.

Upon the sale of a house, City ordinance requires the water heater, if located in the garage, to be raised 18 inches from the garage floor to the flame or from the element capable of generating a glow or spark. This work requires a permit.

Battery powered smoke detectors are required to be installed in each bedroom or sleeping area and in the hall leading to the bedrooms. This does not require a permit.

Important Note

Homeowners, please make sure that your contractor has a permit and obtains the final inspection. Request to see the job card before they start work. The inspector will sign off on the final inspection upon successful completion of the project. All Daly City inspectors are Combination Inspectors. To serve the our residents better, all trades can be inspected and signed off by the same inspector during one visit to the site.

According to the California Building Code, as adopted by the City of Daly City, a permit is required to undertake any of the following actions regarding any building or structure in Daly City:

• Alter
• Construct
• Convert
• Demolish
• Enlarge
• Erect
• Improve
• Move
• Remove
• Repair

Examples

Examples of buildings, structures, or activities that require a permit include:

• Accessory buildings over 120 square feet
• Additions
• All types of plumbing, mechanical and electrical installations, including fixture replacement and installation
• Garage, or construction of rooms therein (including secondary units)
• Gas piping and gas appliance installation (including water heater and furnace replacement)
• Kitchen or bathroom remodel
• Lawn sprinkler installations
• Patio enclosures and decks
• Porch enclosures
• Replacement of:
  • Furnace
  • Garage door
  • Roof
  • Siding
  • Water heater
  • Windows
• Retaining walls

Contact City Divisions

Even when permits are not required, there are very specific location and setback requirements. It is always a good idea to check with the Building Division and Planning Division first.

Plans are required for any new construction or when you add to, alter or repair existing structures. Structures include:

• Decks
• Patio/porch enclosures
• Retaining walls
• Rooms
• Stairways

Many home maintenance projects (e.g., water heater, furnace and window replacement, re-roofing, and siding) which can be described on the permit application may be issued without plans. Replacing or adding a sink, toilet or bathroom vanity requires a plumbing permit.

By permitting and inspecting construction work, the Building Division assures the work is done correctly, in accordance with the code, and the health and life safety of Daly City citizens is protected.

Normally, you may apply in person at the Building Division located on the second floor of City Hall. Staff is available to assist you Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm (Wednesdays from 9 am to 5 pm). Permits may be issued to the property owner or any contractor licensed by the state and in possession of a valid Daly City Business License.

Shelter-in-Place Permit Applications & Resubmittals

To submit an application for new permits or resubmittals, email the Building Division the following:

1. Scanned PDF of your Permit Application (PDF)
2. Scanned PDF of your Credit Card Authorization (PDF)
3. Provide any other supporting documentation; e.g., electronic PDF files of your drawings/plans, calculations, etc., as necessary. You may also provide us with a downloadable link to a digital cloud-based storage service to retrieve your files.

For More Information

For more information, please contact the Building Division by calling 650-991-8061 or email.

Depending on the nature of the work or improvements planned, a homeowner may obtain a homeowner-builder permit; per state law, a licensed contractor is required when the total labor and material cost of the proposed project is $500 or more.

Before an owner-builder permit may be issued, a Disclosures and Forms for Owner-Builders Applying for Construction Permit Form (PDF) is required to be completed and signed by the registered property owner. To assure the work is done safely and according to applicable building codes, staff will review the application with you and provide an opportunity to demonstrate your construction knowledge for your planned project.

Keep in mind, as an owner-builder, you assume full responsibility for all phases of your project and its integrity. You are also responsible for workers compensation insurance and payroll taxes for anyone you may hire to help.

For More Information

For more information, email the Building Division or call 650-991-8061.

No! As important as it is to have your permit, it is equally important to make sure all your required inspections are made and your construction work is approved and finalized. You must schedule inspections at certain stages of the project and a final inspection after the work has been completed. The inspection process ensures your work, or your contractor’s work, is done safely and in accordance with current California building codes.

It is the responsibility of the person doing the work to call for, arrange access, and obtain a final inspection. To schedule an inspection, call 650 991-8061 before two working days before the desired date and have your permit number available.

Upon successful completion of a final inspection, the Building Inspector will sign your permit job card. The signed permit job card is your record of permitted work completion.

Visit the voter registration website at https://smcacre.gov/elections/voter-registration for more information. You may also obtain a voter registration form at public libraries, post offices, or the City Clerk’s Office.

To check the status of your voter registration, visit https://smcacre.gov/elections/my-election-info.

To track the status of your Vote by Mail ballot, visit https://smcacre.gov/elections/track-your-ballot. 

You may also call the Registration and Elections division at 650-312-5222 for further information. 

You can check out up to 50 items at a time.

Notify the Library immediately. You are responsible for all materials checked out with your card. Once you report your card lost, no one will be able to use it to check out materials.

If you later find your card, you can have it reinstated by presenting the card along with your photo ID at the Library.

To replace a lost card, visit your local library with your photo ID.

Yes, you can place a hold on an item through the catalog. When it becomes available, it will be sent to the library of your choice at no charge.

You can return materials to any of the Peninsula Library System libraries. Book drops are available at all libraries so that you can return items after hours.

By accessing your Library Account through the catalog. You can also renew by phone by calling the automated 24-hour renewal line at 650-638-0399 or by calling one of our branches.

No, Library membership is free. 

Visit one of the branches, complete an application and present photo identification and proof of current address. Children under the age of 14 must have a parent or guardian sign their application and present identification and proof of current address. Print the Library Card Application form in English (PDF), Spanish (PDF) or Chinese (PDF).

You may also submit your information online. You will need to visit the Library to present identification and proof of current address to receive your card.

Renewing your library card is easy. Bring photo ID and proof of your current home address to any public library in San Mateo County. Library staff will renew your card in just a few minutes.

You will be charged the full retail cost plus a $5 processing fee. You may also replace the item with a new or like-new copy. Ask a librarian if you need assistance with this process.

Reset your PIN on our online catalog.

Most materials are loaned for 21 days and may be renewed up to five times.

The Daly City Public Library is fine free.  Accounts do not accrue daily overdue fines. Library materials not returned 30 days past the due date will incur a replacement charge on the library account. 

CDs and DVDs can be used on Library computers. They are read-only drives.

All of the libraries have WiFi.

All Library locations have public computers with Internet access and Microsoft Office applications. There is no fee. Printing is 15¢ per page in black and white and 40¢ per page in color..

All Daly City Public Libraries have a scanner.

Yes.

Yes. Black and white copies are 15¢ per page.  Color copies are 40¢ per page.

No.

Monetary Donations

The Library gratefully accepts monetary donations, or you can make your donation to the Daly City Public Library Associates, a non-profit organization supporting the library.

Material Donations

We also accept donations of materials which may be added to the library collections or sold to raise funds for the library. The Library accepts new or good condition books and media at all of our locations. Due to space constraints, we can accept only one box (equivalent to a bankers box) of materials at any one time.

All donations must be brought to the service desk during open hours to be given to a staff person. We cannot accept donations in the book returns or left inside or outside the library. For health and safety reasons, we cannot accept anything with mold, mildew, or dust.

The Library has a Materials by Mail Service for homebound residents. Download the Application for Homebound Services (PDF) or call the Serramonte Main Library at 650-991-8023 for more information.

You can call the Serramonte Main Library at 650-991-8023 and a librarian will assist you. You can also email the library.

• Convenience stores
• Gas stations
• Restaurants
• Small retail
• Warehouses

Often these audits will recommend changes in lighting and refrigeration with an average investment of $5,000 to 6,000. With the reduced energy costs, a business can experience a pay-back within 18 to 24 months. Some businesses may qualify for PG&E rebates and 0% financing ($5,000 to $100,000 payable over five years).

• A technician conducts a free energy survey to determine your potential savings.
• An easy-to-understand free report highlighting the energy and money-saving upgrades will be provided to you.
• Once the go-ahead is given, Energy Watch handles the installation process and rebate paperwork.
• Your business starts saving on the energy bill immediately, freeing up resources.

San Mateo County Energy Watch is a local government partnership between the City and County Association of Governments of San Mateo County (C/CAG) and Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) and is administered by PG&E through the California Public Utilities Commission.

Find out if you qualify for a free audit. Contact Adrian Almaguer at 650-599-1480 or email Adrian Almaguer.

PACE, or Property Assessed Clean Energy, is an affordable, long-term financing option for energy, water, and renewable energy upgrades to buildings and homes that you can repay on your property taxes over a time period of up to 20 years. And, this special assessment on your property tax bill remains with the property in the event of a sale. Property owners receive 100% financing of improvement costs and projects can be cash-flow positive from day one. No up-front cash investment is required.

Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) is available to both residential and commercial properties. Residential properties are detached single-family homes (condos are eligible under special conditions). Commercial properties include:

• Apartment Buildings
• Commercial Offices
• Faith-Based Buildings
• Hotels
• Industrial Facilities
• Nonprofits
• Retail/Restaurants

Currently, there is one approved property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) provider in Daly City; CaliforniaFIRST. Please check back with us for updates on new PACE offerings.

Residential Homeowners

• Visit the CaliforniaFIRST website or call 844-736-3934.
• The HERO Program was discontinued in 2023 due to borrower nonpayment.

For Commercial Property Owners / Manager

• Visit the CaliforniaFIRST Commercial Program website or call 844-736-3934.

Yes, you are encouraged to combine Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) with cash rebates! PACE is a great financing option for homeowners and multifamily property owners (5 plus units) interested in cash rebates and free technical assistance for energy upgrades through the Bay Area Regional Energy Network (BayREN). Single-family homeowners can use PACE to finance a home energy upgrade through Energy Upgrade California’s Home Upgrade program. Multifamily property owners can use PACE to finance energy upgrades through the Bay Area Multifamily Building Enhancement Program.

Rebates

Improvements eligible for rebates include:

• Air Conditioners
• Air Sealing
• Duct Sealing
• Energy-Efficient Windows
• High-Efficiency Furnaces
• Insulation
• Water Heaters and more

Email Stephen Stolte, Sustainability Coordinator, or 650-991-8126 for more information.

• Starting January 1, 2026, the minimum wage in the City of Daly City is $17.50 per hour. Tips and other benefits may not be considered an offset to the Minimum Wage.
• Each employer must give written notification to each current employee and to new employees (at the time of hire) of the employee’s rights under the Minimum Wage Ordinance.
• The employer must post the Official Notice prominently in the areas at the worksite where it will be seen by all employees. Failure to post such notice will be a violation of the Municipal Code.
• Each employer shall maintain for at least three years for each employee, a record of their name, hours worked, and pay rate.
• Under the Ordinance, an employer may not retaliate against an employee for making a complaint to the City regarding their right to receive the minimum wage specified. The City of Daly City will investigate possible violations and may take enforcement action including reinstatement of the employee, payment of back wages, and civil penalties.

• Starting January 1, 2026, the minimum wage in the City of Daly City is $17.50 per hour.
• Covered employees include anyone who performs two or more hours of work per week within the geographical boundaries of the City of Daly City, including employees who are under 18 years old.
• Covered employees are entitled to these rights regardless of immigration status.
• The minimum wage will be adjusted annually on January 1st of each year.

A red light running violation occurs when a motorist deliberately enters an intersection after the signal light has turned red. Motorists who are already in an intersection when the signal changes to red - while waiting to turn, for example - aren’t red light running and are not ticketed.

Fines for a Red Light Violation are $436. Drivers are reminded that an approach for a right turn that is regulated by a red light requires a complete stop. Specifics on this right of way condition can be located in the California Drivers License Handbook (PDF).

Yes. Trained officers review each citation before it is issued to ensure that the vehicle is in violation. Tickets are mailed to vehicle owners only in cases where it is clear the vehicle ran the red light and where the photographed driver’s gender matches that of the licensed owner or a licensed driver in their household.

Administration & Engineering Division

The Administration and Engineering Divisions are located at City Hall, 333 90th Street, Daly City, west of Highway 280 at the corner of Sullivan Avenue and 90th Street. Office hours are from 8 am to 5 pm.

Maintenance Division

The Maintenance Division is located at 501 Citrus Avenue, Daly City, east of Highway 280 at the Niantic Avenue cross street. Office hours are from 7 am to 3:30 pm, Monday through Friday.

Street Division

The Street Division is located at 798 Niantic Avenue, Daly City, east of Highway 280 inside the Daly City Corporation Yard (entrance at Niantic Avenue and Citrus Avenue). Office hours are from 7 am to 3:30 pm.

You may check the Project Bidding Information page for Notices to Invite Bids on upcoming projects. 

Call the Engineering Division at 650-991-8064.

Call the Engineering Division at 650-991-8064 during normal business hours. For non-emergencies, submit a "New Request" via iHelp using the "Traffic Signals / Signs / Striping" request type. To avoid electrical hazards, please do not touch or move a downed streetlight or traffic signal pole.

Submit a "New Request" via iHelp using the "Sidewalk Conditions" request type.

Submit a "New Request" via iHelp using the "Pavement Conditions / Potholes" request type.

Submit a "New Request" via iHelp using the "Police / Traffic Enforcement (Non-Emergency)" request type or call the Police Department - Abandoned Vehicle Line at 650-991-8103.

Call the Abandoned Shopping Cart Hotline at 650-991-5525.

Email Engineering a Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Request for Review Form (PDF) or contact the Engineering Division at 650-991-8064.

Email Engineering a Residential Disabled Parking Zone Request Application (PDF) or contact the Engineering Division at 650-991-8064. Please note that on-street parking in many neighborhoods is limited. The primary consideration is given to applicants who do not have driveways or garages.

Submit a "New Request" via iHelp using the "Traffic Signals / Signs / Striping" request type or call the Street Division at 650-991-8097.

Submit a "New Request" via iHelp using the "Public Works General Request" request type or call the Engineering Division at 650-991-8064.

Apply for an encroachment permit by emailing Engineering Division or by calling 650-991-8064. Encroachment permits are required for street and sidewalk obstructions, awnings over sidewalks, and any work within the City Right-of-Way.

View Grading Permits and Transportation and Hauling Permits.

Check the Street Cleaning Schedule.

No. The holidays observed are:

• New Year’s Day
• Martin Luther King Jr.
• Presidents Day
• Memorial Day
• Independence Day
• Labor Day
• Veterans Day
• Thanksgiving
• the day after Thanksgiving
• Christmas

Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve are half-day holidays. Please check the Street Cleaning Schedule for these half-day holidays.

To report graffiti on private property, call Code Enforcement at 650-991-8260. Graffiti on City-owned buildings and playground equipment should be submitted as a "New Request" via iHelp using the "Graffiti Abatement / Public Structures" request type, or by calling the Maintenance Division at 650-991-8095.

Submit a "New Request" via iHelp using the "Graffiti Abatement / Public Structures" request type, or by calling the Maintenance Division at 650-991-8095.

Submit a "New Request" via iHelp using the "Graffiti Abatement / Public Structures" request type, or by calling the Maintenance Division at 650-991-8095.

Contact the Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA at (650) 340-7022 ext. 603 and leave a message.

Contact Beekeepers' Guild of San Mateo County for Removing Swarms and Unwanted Bee Colonies

Submit a "New Request" via iHelp using the "Debris / Litter" request type.

Submit a "New Request" via iHelp using the "City Tree / Park / Landscaping" request type.

During normal business hours, call the Parks Division at 650-991-8015 or submit a "New Request" via iHelp using the "City Tree / Park / Landscaping" request type.

Call the Department of Water Wastewater Resources at 650-991-8200. They may direct you to call your own plumber.

During normal business hours, call the Street Division at 650-991-8097.

During normal business hours, call the Street Division at 650-991-8097. 

Submit a "New Request" via iHelp using the "Public Works General Request" request type or call the Street Division at 650-991-8097.

Maps of specific areas are available by contacting the Public Works Engineering Division by submitting a "New Request" via iHelp using the "Public Works General Request" request type or calling 650-991-8064.

Call the Department of Water and Wastewater Resources at 650-991-8208 or the 24-Hour support line at 650-991-8200.

If your incident is an emergency, call 911. If non-emergency, call 650-991-8119.

No, if a crime took place outside of City of Daly City, please call the police department for that city.

If this took place on a state freeway, please call the Highway Patrol Office nearest you.

A known suspect is when you or someone else knows the person or where to find the person who committed the crime or the license plate number of the vehicle the suspect(s) was in.

Online

Your are able to sign up for automatic payments through our Utility eBilling website.

Mail

In addition, you may fill out the Direct Debit Authorization Form (PDF) and mail to:
Utility Billing Division
City of Daly City
333 90th Street
Daly City, CA 94015

Email

Finally, you can also fill out the Direct Debit Authorization Form (PDF) and submit it to us by email. Continue to send payments until your statement indicates otherwise.

Yes. You will continue to receive a statement that will show the amount that will be deducted from your bank account.

You may cancel at anytime by notifying us in writing at:
Utility Billing Division
City of Daly City
333 90th Street
Daly City, CA 94015

Please give us ample time to process your request. For more information, contact us by email or by calling 650-991-8082.

You can call us at 650-991-8082 during office hours (Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 4:00 pm) to sign up for water and garbage service. These two services come on one bill and are billed every other month to most residential customers.

We have recently updated our water and trash bill format. Please access a Helpful Guide (PDF) to explain the changes and learn how to most easily read your utility bill.

The City of Daly City is pleased to offer several options for paying your water and/or garbage bill:

• You can pay online with a credit or debit card or e-check via our Utility eBilling website
• You can sign up for Automatic Electronic Payment (PDF) from your checking or savings account; for more information on setting up automatic payments, visit our Auto Payment page
• You can pay over the phone 650-991-8082 with a credit card (residential only)
• You can place into drop box located in the City Hall parking lot at 333 90th Street 
• You can mail a check or money order in the pre-addressed envelope that comes enclosed with your statement

Yes, we offer eBilling. Please register for an account on our Utility eBilling Website to opt for electronic billing

If you need your current balance, account number or due date, please call our office during business hours (Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm) at 650-991-8082 or submit a request via email and we’ll respond within two business days.

Additionally, billing information such as balance can be viewed through our Utility eBilling website.

Water

Your water bill is calculated based on the current rates and usage; for more information on current rates, view the 2024 - 2028 Water Rates (PDF). Many customers experience an increase in their water usage during the warm months due to caring for their lawn/garden. Also, toilet leaks lose a lot of water and may go undetected for a long time. Contact the office by phone at 650-991-8082 or by email for free leak check tablets.

Garbage

Garbage rates are based on the number of carts and the size. Did you request an extra cart pick up? Did you change from a smaller size cart to a larger size? Find out more by viewing some helpful garbage rate documents:

• Commercial and Multi-Family Bin Service (PDF)
• Commercial Cart Service (PDF)
• Debris Box and Compactor Service (PDF)
• Single-Family Cart Service (PDF)

It may be due to a necessary repair being made by the Department of Water and Wastewater Resources. Call 650-991-8200 to see when the service will be restored.

It may be that you are a new resident and need to sign up for service. Your water may also have been shut off if you did not pay your bill on time. Call the Utility Billing Office at 650-991-8082 and one of our staff members will be glad to assist you.

If your garbage was not picked up, you need to have extra service this week, or would like to schedule your free annual bulky goods collection, please contact Republic Services at 650-756-1130 or visit the Republic Services website.

For more information on the water of Daly City, such as water quality, water management plans, and more, visit the Water and Wastewater Resources Department page.

An allegation will be accepted by:

• Anonymously
• Email
• Fax
• In Person
• Letter
• Phone

Regardless of where the allegation is filed, the investigation is conducted by the Daly City Police Department’s Internal Affairs Unit.

An allegation is sustained by a preponderance of the evidence. Preponderance means proof that more likely than not the alleged conduct occurred.

According to the Peace Officer Bill of Rights Government Code Section 3304, allegations against police officers must be completed within one year of the received date. The Daly City Police Department has a policy of completing all cases within 300 days of the received date.

After the investigation is completed, the case is forwarded from the Internal Affairs Unit to the Chief of Police for audit and review. Once there is agreement that the case has been completed in a thorough, fair and objective manner, a disposition letter will be sent to the complainant.

• Allegation - An allegation is an unproven accusation that a member of the Police Department violated Department or City policy procedure, rules, regulations, or the law.
• Complaint - A complaint is an expression of dissatisfaction that contains an allegation, which if proven to be true, demonstrates misconduct.
• Misconduct - Misconduct is an act or omission by a Department member that is a violation of Department or City policy, procedure, rules, regulations, or the law, which if proven true may result in disciplinary action. 

The findings include:

1. Unfounded
2. Exonerated
3. Not Sustained
4. Sustained

No, state law prohibits the release of this information.

The Americans with Disabilities Act is a civil rights law that mandates equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. Passed by Congress in 1990, the law prohibits discrimination in employment, public services, public accommodations, and telecommunications.

The primary responsibility of public agencies with regard to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is to provide equal access to programs, services, and activities. The ADA requires State and Local Governments and Public Agencies to:

• Complete a Self-Evaluation of programs
• Designate a person who is responsible for overseeing Title II compliance
• Develop an ADA Complaint Procedure
• Develop a Transition Plan if the Self-Evaluation identifies any structural modifications necessary for compliance

• The Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan is required of State or Local Governments and Public Agencies with more than 50 employees.
• The Self-Evaluation section examines how City’s policies, programs, and services are provided to the public.
• The Transition Plan section looks at physical barriers and identifies structural modifications necessary for providing physical access to the City’s programs and services. As part of the Transition Plan, the City will develop a strategy and schedule for barrier mitigation.

An encroachment permit is required for any work performed in the public right-of-way. Some of the front yard behind a sidewalk may be in the public right-of-way. Call the Engineering Division at 650-991-8064 to check for property line information. You can find information for Standards and Specifications online. Examples of encroachments include, but are not restricted to the following:

• Activities requiring traffic control
• Driveway approach
• Installation of under sidewalk drains
• Installation or repair of sanitary sewer laterals or cleanouts
• Installation or repair of sidewalk, curb, and/or gutter
• Installation or repair of water service laterals
• Parking space obstructions
• Placement or monitoring of monitoring wells
• Soil borings or other excavations
• Street trenching

The property owner or the contractor performing the work must:

• Complete Credit Card Authorization Form (PDF) if needed
• Complete and submit an Encroachment Permit Application (PDF)
• Pay applicable permit fees and post-security deposits. See 2025-2026 Master Fee Schedule (PDF)
• Provide certificates of public liability and property damage insurance with the City named as an additional insured. See Department of Public Works Insurance Requirements (PDF)

Applications to install Wireless Communications Facilities must include the information required by the Wireless Communications Facilities Permit Submittal Checklist (PDF). Call 650-991-8064 for more information.

A grading permit is required to grade, fill, excavate, store or dispose of soil and earth materials or to perform any other land-disturbing or land-filling activity which may cause erosion. All land-disturbing or land-filling activities or soil storage shall be undertaken in a manner designed to minimize surface runoff, erosion, and sedimentation and to safeguard life, limb, property, and public welfare. You can find information for Standards and Specifications online. A grading permit is not required if all the following criteria are met:

• Natural and finished slopes are less than 10 percent
• No drainage way is blocked or has its stormwater-carrying capacities or characteristics modified
• Rainwater runoff is diverted, either during or after construction, from an area smaller than one thousand five hundred square feet
• The site upon which land area is disturbed or filled is three thousand square feet or less
• The volume of soil or earth materials stored is fifty cubic yards or less

The property owner or the contractor performing the work must:

• Complete Credit Card Authorization Form (PDF), if needed
• Complete and submit a Grading and Hauling Permit Application (PDF) and pay applicable review fees
• Complete and submit a Plan Review Application (PDF) and pay applicable review fees
• Pay applicable permit fees and post-security deposits (PDF). On May 13, 2024, City Council approved the new Master Fee Schedule. 

For information call 650-991-8064.

A transportation permit is required for the operation of vehicles of size, load weight, or vehicle weight exceeding the maximum specified in the State of California Vehicle Code on certain City streets. A haul route permit is required to haul dirt or other materials on City streets. You can find information for Standards and Specifications online.

The property owner or the contractor performing the work must:

• Complete Credit Card Authorization Form (PDF), if needed
• Complete and submit an Encroachment Permit Application (PDF), including the identification and mapping of the transport route
• Pay applicable permit fees (PDF). On May 8, 2023, City Council approved the new Master Fee Schedule. Please see pages 11-15 for up-to-date Public Works Fees. 

For information call 650-991-8064.

The City owns approximately 3,310 street lights citywide. The High Voltage Regulated Output (RO) street light circuits account for 23% of the total inventory. The ROs most affected by the outages are the four located in Skyline, Palisades, Westlake, and St. Francis neighborhoods. This accounts for approximately 6% of the City’s entire street light system.

These street light systems have served these neighborhoods since the 1950s and 1960s. Periodic problems with these lights have existed for decades, especially in areas most affected by coastal fog. Street light failures have increased over the years as equipment has aged and replacement parts have become more difficult to obtain. Affected street lights typically stay off for a few days or sometimes much longer depending on the cause of the failure and how quickly PG&E or the City can respond.

No, the City has never turned street lights off to save money. In fact, only PG&E can turn Regulated Output (RO) lights off. While the City continues to face the challenges of increasing operational costs and little growth in revenues, the City does not have a practice of reducing expenses by implementing "rolling blackouts."

The street light outages can make residents feel less safe as there is a perception that malfunctions signal an opportunity for crime, impact business shopping hours, lead to the negative motorist, pedestrian, and bicyclist impacts, and overall decrease Daly City’s quality of life for residents.

Street light failures have increased over the years as equipment ages and replacement equipment and parts become more difficult to obtain. Outages are reported as often as four times per month in some neighborhoods and ten times per month citywide.

Street lights typically stay off for several days or up to a month or more depending on the cause of the failure and how quickly PG&E responds.

Daly City leadership is seeking to improve the quality of life for residents residing in areas with regular street light outages. Without street lights, children cannot play outside past sundown and residents face unsettling neighborhood walks that can make them feel uneasy or unsafe in their own homes.

Poorly lit shopping districts may see a decrease in revenue once the sun goes down. Shoppers and tourists are more likely to visit a well-lit area perceived as safe. Without shoppers, businesses that depend on walk-in traffic may suffer financially. In addition, residents who drive may face a trip back to their car in complete darkness.

Daly City, unfortunately, cannot fund the replacement and upgrades alone. Over the last decade, the City has struggled to keep up with increasing costs and inflation. For a city that is primarily residential and lacks a diverse economic base, the revenue received does not keep pace with the costs to provide services. When the Great Recession hit, the City cut staff positions and employees made concessions. Despite these efforts, the City continues to face financial challenges. If the City were to fully fund the upgrades through a "save and pay" model (no borrowing and cash only), the project would take approximately 20 to 30 years to acquire enough funding for replacement.

High Voltage PG&E Transformers & Switchgear

Street lights on the western side of Daly City are powered by high voltage PG&E transformers and switchgear. Recent experience indicates most street light failures (9 out of 10) are the result of failures in PG&E power supply equipment. Daly City cannot control the problem with PG&E equipment but can convert the Daly City street lights to lower voltage. Converting to a lower voltage would eliminate the high voltage PG&E transformers and switchgear which cause frequent outages. In addition, replacement of the regulated outputs ROs would be with the latest LED technology, which would lower energy costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

It would take the City approximately 20 to 30 years to fund replacements to the malfunctioning parts of the system. Street light maintenance is funded through gas and sale tax; however, there is not enough tax revenue generated to fund all of the roadway, storm drain, and other capital needs simultaneously. Basically, the City has $2 to spend with $20 worth of needs.

Costs

In short, revenue is not keeping pace with the cost of inflation and other increasing operational costs (e.g., fuel, energy, health care, etc.). As the largest city in the County, with a limited residential tax base, funding direct services has in recent years received greater priority than funding capital investments. It continues to be a challenge for many cities in the state, including Daly City, to fund significant capital needs without increasing taxes.

One option is to do nothing. Doing nothing entails more street light outages and repairs based on PG&E’s availability and the City’s finances. A more permanent solution is to determine a financing plan that pays for street light circuit conversion to lower voltage and eliminate the High Voltage Regulatory Output (RO) equipment. One plan evaluated by the City is the creation of a special assessment district to fund these improvements and expedite a permanent solution. View more information on assessment districts (PDF).

An assessment district is a financing method advocated by property owners and used by public agencies to fund the construction of public improvements or maintenance of public improvements that directly benefit the properties, or parcels, located within the boundary of the district. View more information on the assessment district (PDF).

The replacement of one High Voltage Regulated Outputs (RO) street light circuit is estimated to cost approximately $500,000. The four ROs that fail the most are 256, 366, 406, and 460. The estimated cost to replace all four ROs is approximately $2 million. See the map of the ROs.

If an assessment district option is selected, each property owner pays a share of the cost of improvements over a period of years through their property tax bill. Assessment districts are property owner funded; homeowners and rental property owners directly benefit from the proposed maintenance or upgrade from the improvements. The costs per owner will depend upon the capital cost for the improvement, the size of the district, and in some cases, the size of a particular property. Since a number of affected neighborhoods would be included in an assessment district to handle the four most problematic Regulated Outputs (RO), fixed costs could be spread over more property owners which will result in lower costs per assessment.

Bond

An assessment district is typically financed with a bond. For example, if a 15-year bond is selected, the annual assessment per property owner could range between $75 to $150 per year depending on the size of the district, the size of the property, and the degree of City financial contribution. The assessment would sunset when the bond or debt is paid off.

Accrual & Final Costs

The City will hire a licensed engineer to determine the accrual and final costs as required by law to determine the exact cost of the assessment per property owner, if and when property owners elect to pursue assessment district financing.

If an assessment district were established, the annual fee is collected through a property owner’s property tax bill. The assessment district would appear as a separate line item, similar to a school bond.

For a permanent solution, Daly City recommends residents consider forming an assessment district (PDF) with neighbors seeking to improve safety and the quality of life in their neighborhoods.

Watch this video on what causes street light outages.

Watch this video on why street lights are so difficult to repair.

Many California cities are facing budget constraints that limit the ability to pay outright for desperately needed infrastructure upgrades. Like school districts funding replacement or expansion of schools, a special tax assessment is used to fund capital needs and infrastructure. In these instances, cities turn to assessment districts to help finance projects that would otherwise go unfunded. View examples of cities that established assessment districts to pay for vital citizen needs:

• Stockton created an assessment district to fund the maintenance costs of storm drain basins throughout the city.
• In San Diego, residents voted to form assessment districts to fund parks and landscaping upkeep. (View the Maintenance Assessment Districts (PDF) to learn more.)
• Similar to Daly City’s needs, Rancho Cucamonga formed eight assessment districts to fund street light and traffic signal costs.

• Series Circuit Replacement Map (JPG)
• Series Circuit High Voltage Regulated Outputs (RO) Number by Address (JPG)

Daly City is a General Law City (authority is set forth in the California Government Code) governed by a council-manager form of government in which the five-member City Council appoints the City Manager. The City Manager oversees an Executive Leadership Team in the operation of eight departments employing approximately 475 staff with an annual estimated budget of $150 million.

The council-manager government is the system of local government that combines the strong political leadership of elected officials in the form of a council or other governing body, with the strong managerial experience of an appointed local government manager. All power and authority are concentrated in the elected council as a whole and the council hires a professionally trained nonpartisan manager to oversee the delivery of public services.

Daly City’s five-member council are elected at-large and serve as the community’s governing body. Rather than focus on administrative and operational details, the council focuses on:

• Capital Financing
• Capital Improvement Plans
• Community’s Goals
• Land Use Development
• Policy and Legislation
• Strategic Planning

The professional manager they hire is responsible for carrying out administrative responsibilities.

Mayors in council-manager communities are key political and policy leaders, and their specific duties, responsibilities, and authorities depend on the organization’s charter or code. In council-manager communities, typically the mayor is an equal voting member of the city council who presides at council meetings, represents the city in intergovernmental affairs, and facilitates communication and understanding between elected and appointed officials. For Daly City, the mayor is elected among the council members annually in December.

In a council-manager government, council members are the leaders and policymakers in the community. The manager is appointed by the council to prepare a budget, hire, terminate and supervise city staff, serve as the council’s chief advisor, and to carry out the council’s policies and priorities. Council members and citizens count on the manager to provide complete and objective information, pros and cons of alternatives, and long-term implications. If the manager is not responsive to the council’s direction, the council has the authority to terminate the manager at any time. 

Accountability

City managers formed a professional association, International City/Council Management Association (ICMA), in 1914 to help share expertise and experiences, hold members accountable to political neutrality and high ethical standards, and promote responsive, effective good government in our communities. To learn more about the contributions of city managers watch this short video and visit Life Well Run.

Daly City is served by five public school districts: 

• Bayshore Elementary
• Brisbane Elementary
• Jefferson Elementary
• Jefferson Union High School
• South San Francisco Unified

Additionally, Daly City is in the San Mateo Community College District and is in close proximity to San Francisco State University.

The current City of Daly City job openings is listed on the Human Resources page. Other employment opportunities in or near Daly City can be found at CalOpps - an interactive website linking employers and job seekers.

The City of Daly City provides water service to almost every property in Daly City. If you have a question about your utility account - which includes water and garbage - you may contact the City’s Utility Billing Division at 650-991-8082. Republic Services is the franchised hauler for both residential and commercial solid waste and recycling in Daly City. You can find more information about garbage and recycling collection guidelines and schedules online at the Republic Services website or by phone at 650-756-1130. Other helpful recycling tips and information is available at the Recycle Works website and Daly City’s Go Green page.

Yes, this program, which includes First Time Homebuyer Assistance and the City’s Housing Rehabilitation Program, is administered by the Housing and Community Development Division of the Economic and Community Development Department. The City does not own or manage rental housing and cannot directly place people in housing units. For information on available housing, see our Housing Resources page

Detailed instructions for appealing or paying for a parking citation are printed directly on the ticket. California Vehicle Code Section 40215 allows you to contest a parking citation, provided the citation was issued in error. View online instructions for contesting a parking citation.

Daly City Library has four branches; Serramonte Main Library, Westlake Branch, John Daly Branch, and Bayshore Branch. Information about the Daly City Library can be found at the Daly City Public Library Home Page.

Information about the Mayor and City Council can be found under the “Your Elected Officials” link. Other online information about City Departments is listed on the “City Services and Contact Directory” page.

No, marriage licenses, birth certificates, and other vital records for San Mateo County are processed by the San Mateo County Clerk-Recorder.

Please contact Daly City’s Abandoned Shopping Cart Retrieval reporting line at 650-991-5525. Leave a message with the information below in order to receive a response within 48 hours:

• Brief description of cart
• Date and time you observed the cart
• Location of the abandoned cart - address or cross streets
• Name of the store the cart belongs to - if you are able to determine

If after 72 hours you still notice the same shopping cart in the same location, please contact Daly City’s Department of Economic and Community Development at 650-991-8260.

Passport Services are by appointment only, with an appointment necessary for each applicant.

• All applicants must appear in person, including both parents of children under age 16 and one parent for applicants who are age 16-17.
• Arrival on time to the appointment is mandatory.
• The application must be typed and/or printed using BLACK ink prior to appointment.
• Proof of citizenship is required via an original/certified birth certificate, original certificate of naturalization, or previous passport. Submit certified copy and photocopy of the front and back.
• Proof of identity is required and must be presented to acceptance agent. Also, submit a photocopy of the front and back of the ID.
• All applicants must bring a recent 2x2 color photograph, taken less than six months ago, and which meets all the requirements listed on https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/photos.html
• Proof of parental relationship (original/certified birth certificate) is required for all applicants 15 years of age and under.
• Original documents will accompany the application.
• Two payments will be made:
  • One payment for U.S. Department of State (a check or money order per applicant) 
  • One payment for City of Daly City ($35 execution fee per applicant). The cashier accepts cash, credit card or check. 

No. Please bring a passport photo to your appointment. 

If you are submitting a paper application, go to our Passport Photos page to view requirements and see examples of photos.

The cost of your passport depends on your age, if you want a passport book, passport card, or both documents, and how fast you need it. View the passport fees chart.

When you apply for a passport using form DS-11, you will need to pay two fees: one to the U.S. Department of State and one to the facility where you submit your application. You pay the passport application fee to the U.S. Department of State with a check or a money order. You pay the facility acceptance fee ($35) to the facility that accepts your application.

Visit the Processing Times page for more information.

Application status updates will be sent to the email address you provided on your application. You can also check the status of the application online and learn more about each status update.

If you have waited over two weeks since the US Department mailed your passport, call 1-877-487-2778 (or 1-888-874-7793 if you are deaf or hard of hearing). The National Passport Center will provide information about a form (known as the DS-86 form), which is a signed statement that you didn't receive your U.S. passport. You must complete the DS-86 form within 120 days of the issuance date of your passport. After 120 days, you must reapply and pay all fees, by law.

Go to the Get My Passport Fast page for information on expediting your application, or making an appointment at a passport agency or center.

If you have a life-or-death emergency, go to the Life-or-Death Emergency page to see if you qualify for an appointment.

Yes. In most cases, when you renew by mail, the US Department of State will return the old passport to you. The old passport may not arrive for up to four weeks after you receive your new passport. 

The number on your new passport will be different from the number on your previous passport.

You will receive multiple mailings. The number of mailings depends on what you requested.

Passport Book: Your new passport book and citizenship evidence arrive in two separate envelopes:

New passport arrives via a trackable delivery service.

Citizenship evidence arrives up to four weeks later via First Class Mail.

Passport Card: Your new passport card and citizenship evidence arrive in two separate envelopes.

For more information, visit the Change or Correct a Passport page. 

If you are changing your name within one year of the date your passport was issued, complete Form DS-5504.   

If you are changing your name over a year after your passport was issued, complete Form DS-82.

Letters or emails are sent when more information from you is needed to continue processing your passport. Go to the Respond to a Letter or Email page for more information.

The U.S. passport card is a wallet-sized, plastic passport that has no visa pages. The card is proof of U.S. citizenship and identity, and has the same length of validity as the passport book.  

The card is for U.S. citizens who travel by land and sea to and from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and Caribbean countries.

The card is not valid for international travel by air and is cheaper than the passport book. You can apply for either the book or card, or both documents.  

Some countries require that your passport have at least six months of validity beyond the dates of your trip. Some airlines will not allow you to board if this requirement is not met.