Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find information that might help you understand how to find things or learn about information you might need to know about your city or town.
Public Works - Encroachment Permit
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Public Works - Encroachment Permit
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
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Public Works - Encroachment Permit
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.