FAQs and Answers

Use the dropdown menu below to sort questions by category.

Accessible Parking
- Accessible Parking Information
  • Click to view Downtown Disabled Parking (DP) Spaces
  
  If you have a valid DP placard, DP plates, or Disabled Vehicle plates, then you may park:
  - In parking spaces with the International Symbol of Access (wheelchair symbol).
  - Next to a blue curb designated for persons with disabilities parking.
  - Next to a green curb (green curbs indicate limited time parking) for as long as you wish.
  - At any on-street metered parking space at no charge.
  - In an area that indicates it requires a resident permit.
  You may NOT park:
  - In spaces marked with a crosshatched pattern next to a parking space with the International Symbol of Access (wheelchair symbol). These spaces are for wheelchair and wheelchair lift access.
  - Next to red curbs
  - Next to yellow curbs, which are for commercial vehicles to load and unload passengers or freight, unless posted sign indicates otherwise.
  - Next to white curbs, which are for loading and unloading passengers or depositing mail in an adjacent mailbox.
Affordable Housing
- Does the City own or manage affordable housing units?
  
  The City of San Luis Obispo does not directly own or manage affordable housing units and does not place people in housing. Housing units deed restricted for affordability under the City’s program are all privately owned and managed. For more information regarding affordable housing availability, please see the local Multiple Listing Service, local realtor or property management company directly.
  
  When new affordable units become available, they are usually posted on one of the following websites below;
  
  The Housing Authority of San Luis Obispo: https://www.haslo.org/
  
  People's Self Help Housing: https://www.pshhc.org/new-housing/
  
  The City's Third-Party Affordable Housing Administrator, Housekeys: https://www.housekeys19.com/
- How do I qualify for affordable housing?
  The City publishes Below Market Rate Housing Standards and Affordable Housing Purchase and Rental Guidelines to assist the public prescreen themselves for program eligibility. These standards and guidelines are also used by the Housing Authority of the City of San Luis Obispo and other qualified non-profit organizations to income certify potential owners and renters for the program
- How many homes will be built in the next two years - affordable home versus market rate?
  Housing production has been a Major City Goal for several financial plans and the City has prioritized programs that support new housing production. Lack of affordable and workforce housing continues to be an obstacle for many residents in San Luis Obispo. The good news is that the City is purposefully growing in alignment with the community’s long-range plans and highest priorities. Current levels of residential growth are consistent with the City’s Growth Management Ordinance and the City’s obligations to accommodate its Regional Housing Needs Allocation. The City has planned its resources to support a build-out” population of 57,200 residents, while the current State population estimate for the City is 47,653 residents as of January 1, 2022. Below are the latest housing production numbers from State Housing and Community Development.
  
  The following is the projected buildout through 2035 with the caveat that the City does not build housing and that market dynamics will largely dictate the pace of buildout under the City’s Growth Management Ordinance. Roughly 200-300 units/yr. are projected today over the next few years. There are 500- 700 new affordable housing projects that are likely to be built in the next five years depending on the availability of affordable housing funding. A comprehensive overview of the City’s management of growth and related planning and development efforts can be found in the 2022 General Plan Annual Report.
- How much is the City spending to support supportive housing for homeless individuals?
  The City provides funding to CAPSLO to support shelter operations. The amount of funding is approximately $400,000/yr. The city does not provide direct funding for support services as these are funded by the Federal, State and County governments. The City provides municipal levels of services such as water, wastewater, fire, police, etc. and social services are generally provided by the agencies listed above who often contract out with local providers such as THMA, CAPSLO, etc. Direct spending for services is approximately $1.8 million/yr and does not include calls for services for Fire and the Police Department.
- What affordable housing incentives are available?
  The City offers a variety of incentives to encourage the development of affordable housing. Some examples of incentives include: density bonuses, relaxation of property development standards and waiver of application and development review processing fees. Please the Zoning Regulations for more information.
- What is affordable housing?
  Affordable housing is housing available to extremely-low, very-low, low, and moderate income persons and households. The City maintains Below Market Rate Housing Standards which show the maximum income for each category to qualify based on household size, and maximum sales and rent prices based on the number of bedrooms in a unit for the various income groups.
- What is inclusionary housing?
  New development projects must contribute toward the production of affordable housing, as specified in the Housing Element. Inclusionary housing applies all new development projects.
Applying for Parking Permit
- What is a Residential Parking Permit District?
  Check out our Information Guide.
- What types of parking permits are available for purchase?
  Click here to visit our parking permit page.
Bicycle
- Are there bicycle education opportunities within San Luis Obispo?
  The City partners with the San Luis Obispo County Bicycle Coalition (SLOCBC) to offer bicycle education to students and residents to feel confident and comfortable on their bicycles. Workshops are taught by certified instructors and held throughout the year. For more information, visit the Education section on our Bike page.
- Can I bring my bike on the bus?
  Yes! SLO Transit buses are equipped with bicycle storage racks on their buses for up to three bicycles. SLORTA buses (county-wide buses) are also equipped with bicycle racks and can accommodate up to six bicycles per bus.
  When transporting your bicycle on the bus, as a courtesy, please exit the bus from the front door and remind the bus driver that you will be retrieving your bicycle.
- Can I ride my bike on sidewalks in the City?
  No. Per the City’s Municipal Code Section 10.72.100, bicycle riding on sidewalks is prohibited. This law is in place for the safety of the bicyclists, pedestrians, and motorists.
  
  Pedestrians, trash cans, benches and sign posts become obstacles to bicyclists riding on the sidewalk and can be damaging to property, the bicyclist or a pedestrian if hit. Sidewalks are design for slow speeds—walking speeds. When faster speed is introduces the situation can become hazardous.
  Bicyclists riding on sidewalks also put themselves at risk of being involved in a collision with a motorist. Motorists may not be looking for bicyclists on sidewalks and often bicyclists blend in with other items on the sidewalk (trees, signs, trash cans, etc.). Motorists pulling out of a driveway may not expect a fast moving bicyclist to cross the sidewalk and may not have time to stop prior to a collision. Likewise, a fast moving bicyclist may not have time to stop even if they see a motorist pulling out of a drive way. Pedestrians, on the other hand, move at a much slower pace and it is more likely they will be able to stop prior to impact if a vehicle pulls in front of them.
- I want to ride my bike but where can I park it?
  Locking and securing your bike is easy with over 150 bike parking spaces throughout the City. Click here for the City's Bicycle Parking Map.
- What does a green bike lane mean?
  You may have seen some green bike lanes popping up around the city. Colored pavement when applied to bicycle facilities can act as a tool to alert motorists to the presence of bicyclists in known high conflict zones. The first green bike lanes were installed at the intersection of California and Monterey in 2012 following several bicycle/motor vehicle “right hook” collisions. A “right hook” collision is when a motorist turns right into the path of a bicyclist who is continuing straight. This type of collision is more likely to occur at intersections where a bike lane is on the right side of a traffic lane that vehicles can turn right from. Since the green bike lane was installed at California and Monterey in 2012 there have been no “right hook” bicycle collisions reported at this location.
- What is a bike box?
  A bike box is a designated area at the front of a traffic lane at a signalized intersection that places the bicyclist ahead of queuing motor vehicle traffic during the red signal phase. The bike box increases visibility of bicyclists at intersections (the most common location for bicycle collisions).
  
  It is also intended to prevent conflict between bicyclists and motorists continuing in different directions. For example, a bicyclist traveling straight through an intersection should be centered in the traffic lane giving a right turning motorist room to turn safely next to them. Likewise, a bicyclist turning left from a lane that can either turn left or go straight should be position in the center of the traffic lane in front of motor vehicles intending to travel straight so that their paths do not cross.
- What is that weird (new) 3-headed signal?
  This new device is called a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB), also commonly referred to as a “HAWK” signal. It is a traffic control device used to stop road traffic and allow pedestrians and bicyclists to cross safely. At a PHB, the beacon remains dark until the push button to cross is activated by a pedestrian or bicyclists intending to cross. Upon activation, the beacons begin flashing yellow, then steady yellow, then solid red. During the solid red phase, drivers must remain stopped while users cross from the side street. Prior to returning to dark, the beacons display an alternating flashing red “wig-wag” that allows drivers to stop and proceed when clear, as they would with a stop sign.
- What is the small bicycle symbol in the traffic lane at a signalized intersection?
  This bicycle symbol in the center of the traffic lane is a loop detector for bicycles. When a bicycle is position above this symbol it will trigger the traffic signal using an induction “loop” buried in the street pavement. This will “trip” the traffic signal to give a green to the bicyclists.
  
  Please remember that bicyclists must abide by the California Vehicle Code and are required to obey all traffic signs and signals.
- Will my bicycle be detected at a traffic signal?
  Most of the traffic signals in San Luis Obispo are designed to detect bicyclists at the intersection. Traffic signals with video detection will be able to detect the presence of a bicyclist. Traffic signals operating with a loop detector will have a small bicycle symbol painted in the center of the traffic lane. This symbol indicates where a bicyclist should position their bicycle to “trip” the signal. Other traffic signals (primarily in the downtown area) are operated by fixed time. These signals do not have detection of any kind and will continue to cycle through for traffic in all directions.
  
  Please remember that bicyclists must abide by the California Vehicle Code and are required to obey all traffic signs and signals.
Bicycle Sharrows
- Bicyclists riding over these markings take up the lane, aren't they supposed to move to the right?
  The move-to-the-right rule is part of the California Vehicle Code (CVC) Section 21202. But it also allows a number of exceptions to the rule. One of those exceptions allows bicyclists to avoid conditions that make it unsafe to continue along the right side. It also provides the following list of examples for those conditions: "including, but not limited to, fixed or moving objects, vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians, animals, surface hazards, or substandard width lanes." It then goes on to define a substandard width lane as "a lane that is too narrow for a bicycle and a vehicle to travel safely side by side within the lane."
- Can I drive my car over these markings, or is this a bike lane only?
  Unlike a bike lane that cars can only drive in when making a right hand turn, you may drive over these markings. They are meant to highlight that it is a shared roadway, instruct bicyclists the minimum distance to stay from parked cars, and to instruct motorists to expect to see bicyclists out in the lane.
- Is the City going to start putting these on all streets that don't have a bike lane?
  No. Streets selected for installation must meet a number of criteria. The lanes must be too narrow for motorists and cyclists to safely travel side by side within the lane, on-street parking is allowed, and the route is regularly used by bicyclists.
- I've never seen these markings before, why are they being used now and does anybody else use them?
  These markings were approved for use and added to the state Manual for Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) in September 2006. This was done following an extensive San Francisco test, where they have experienced a high incidence rate of doorings (bicyclists hitting suddenly opened car doors). Use of these symbols is supported by the City of San Luis Obispo's Bicycle Transportation Plan (updated May, 2007). Other California communities that have installed sharrows include San Francisco, Berkeley, Santa Barbara and Ventura.
- So if I don't see these markings, then it's not a shared lane and bikes can't be there?
  No, bicyclists are allowed on all roadways within the City limits with the exception of Highway 101.
- What is a Sharrow?
  Sharrows, or Shared Roadway Bicycle Markings, are intended to show both motorists and bicyclists the minimum distance that cyclists should ride from parked cars to avoid being hit by a suddenly opened car door. Riding too close to parked cars, in the "door zone," is a common mistake by bicyclists and can lead to serious injury. The markings are only used on streets where there isn't room for a striped bike lane.
- Why can't cyclists just look inside the parked cars and move out when they see somebody in a car?
  Just like driving a car, a bicyclist must constantly scan the entire roadway for safety. Dividing their attention to also scan inside of parked cars compromises their attention to the roadway. Additionally, it is often impossible to see people sitting in parked cars due to tinted windows, headrests, other parked vehicles creating blind spots, etc. Although it is the auto driver's responsibility to open the door only when safe (CVC Section 22517) it is the bicyclist who ultimately pays the price.

Building Permits

Do we have pre-planned options for quicker and cheaper ADUs?
ADU production is approaching 200/yr. (in 2023) up from just a handful five years ago. Each lot and area are different, and it is very difficult to prepare pre-planned sets that work on every parcel given design, geologic and other conditions. Our fees have been scaled to promote ADU’s and there are $5k rebates for SLO all electric ADU’s through 3CE program. Prefab ADU’s maybe an efficient strategy to reduce overall costs.
How do I apply for a permit?
See Application Review Procedures page.

How long will it take to obtain a building permit?

The City reviews applications on a first-come, first-served basis. However, we are committed to processing your plans as quickly and efficiently as possible. The City's goal is to complete the plan checks within the following time frames:

Type of Plan Check	Project Examples	Initial Plan Check (City’s Goal Time)	Rechecks (City’s Goal Time)
Minor Projects	Non-structural tenant improvements, residential remodels and additions, single-family homes	4 weeks	2 weeks
Moderate Projects	Structural tenant improvements, commercial additions up to 5,000 SF, changes of occupancy	6 weeks	3 weeks
Major Plan Check	New commercial buildings	8 weeks	4 weeks

Type of Plan Check	Project Examples	Initial Plan Check (City’s Goal Time)	Rechecks (City’s Goal Time)
Minor Projects	Non-structural tenant improvements, residential remodels and additions, single-family homes	4 weeks	2 weeks
Moderate Projects	Structural tenant improvements, commercial additions up to 5,000 SF, changes of occupancy	6 weeks	3 weeks
Major Plan Check	New commercial buildings	8 weeks	4 weeks

Type of Plan Check	Project Examples	Initial Plan Check (City’s Goal Time)	Rechecks (City’s Goal Time)
Minor Projects	Non-structural tenant improvements, residential remodels and additions, single-family homes	4 weeks	2 weeks
Moderate Projects	Structural tenant improvements, commercial additions up to 5,000 SF, changes of occupancy	6 weeks	3 weeks
Major Plan Check	New commercial buildings	8 weeks	4 weeks

How much will my application cost?
The cost of an application will vary depending on the type of permit or approval needed and the scope of review a project will require. Fees for projects can be found at the following link. This is separate from the fees associated with building permit inspections and plan review. Building review and inspection fees are related to the square footage and type of project. For more information please call the Building and Safety Division at 805-781-7180.

Planning Services Fee Schedule

Building: New Construction Fee Schedule - INSPECTION FEES

Building: New Construction Fee Schedule - PLAN CHECK FEES
I want to build an accessory building on my property? What is the process? What can I build?
This depends to the scope of the project and how existing buildings and lots are configured. Check your zoning, look at the Zoning Regulations, and then contact the Planning Department if you still have questions.
My property is on the Master or Contributing list of historic resources, what does this mean?
This means your property has been determined to be a locally significant historic resource because of significant architecture or historical themes. Properties determined to be a historic resource may be eligible for benefits such as the Mills Act. Likewise, building owners of qualified historic properties can follow the more flexible California State Historical Building Code (CHBC). The CHBC’s standards and regulations are intended to facilitate the rehabilitation or change of occupancy so as to preserve their original or restored elements and features, to encourage energy conservation and a cost effective approach to preservation, and to provide for reasonable safety from fire, seismic forces or other hazards for occupants and users of such buildings, structures and properties and to provide reasonable availability and usability by the physically disabled.

Additionally, historic properties are eligible to receive a decorative plaque that can be displayed on their property. More importantly changes to historic properties are guided by the City’s Historic Preservation Guidelines and Historic Preservation Ordinance.
What does Architectural Review evaluate?
Architectural review evaluates the suitability and appropriateness of individual project design and to help achieve attractive and environmentally sensitive development. Review the City’s Design Guidelines to learn more click here.
What materials do I need to submit for an exception?
Once you determine which exception you will need, submit a planning application along with the materials listed on the application checklist appropriate for the type of permit needed for your project. Bring the planning application, the checklist, and the requested materials to the counter when you submit your application. If an application is missing an item required by the checklist, your application will not be accepted.
What type of approval will I need for my business?
The first step would be to identify the zoning for the location of your project. With this information you can reference Table 9 of the Zoning Regulations which indicates the land uses allowed by zone. This denotes what type of permit will be required to allow that use in each zoning district if allowed at all.

Business
- Does the City provide childcare and are au pairs offered as an option?
  The City provides before and after childcare services to the community whether children attend on a regular basis or just drop in on an as needed basis, they will be welcomed into the program. Many other providers such as the YMCA and private providers also provide childcare. Meghan Burger at the City can provide more details about City programs, and she can be reached at Burger, Meghan mburger@slocity.org or at 805-781- 7070. An overview of programs can be found here. Au pars are a service that are provided by the private sector and there are commercially available websites that can provide references and links for those services. Referral services and other business referrals can be sought at the Chamber of Commerce. CAPSLO can aid those seeking general childcare here.
- How can I find out what zone my property is in?
  Use the GIS Parcel Map to find your zoning.
- How can I get a reduced fee for childcare or swim classes?
  We have limited fee reduction credits, based on need, available on a first-come, first-served basis. We start accepting applications for fee credits May 1 for the upcoming fiscal year starting July 1 through June 30. Applications can be picked up at the Parks and Recreation Office.
- How can I make a registration payment for classes or buy childcare hours?
  Although we do not take payments over the phone, in most cases you have the option to pay online through our Active registration site or at the Parks and Recreation Office.
- How can I pay for my approved reservation online?
  SIgn into your account on ActiveNet through our website. Go to "My Account" and select "Pay on Account" (your balance due will be shown). Please email or call the Parks and Recreation Facility Reservations desk at 805-781-7222 if you have any questions.
- How is the City protecting downtown SLO - the police presence, safety, homelessness, cleanliness, vacancies.
  Four sworn officers are dedicated to the downtown. Bike patrols are provided during some evenings and days. Bike patrol staffing has been impacted by a general shortage of officers that is being experienced nationally. Four Community Service Officers were added to patrol the downtown area of the City on foot in May 2023. Between the four Community Service Officers there is coverage 7 days a week from 7 am to 5 pm. 2. The four Community Service Officers overlap on Thursdays where one team works 7 am – 5 pm while the other 12 pm – 10 pm so that they can provide extra services downtown during Farmers Market. Vacancy rates are less than 8%. The average in California is above 10%. The current vacancy rate is below the average and the vacant large spaces such as Charles Shoes, Beverly’s and Ross are due to property owner interests and not a general lack of market interest. Multiple above-market offers have been made on both properties.
- My property is on the Master or Contributing list of historic resources, what does this mean?
  This means your property has been determined to be a locally significant historic resource because of significant architecture or historical themes. Properties determined to be a historic resource may be eligible for benefits such as the Mills Act. Likewise, building owners of qualified historic properties can follow the more flexible California State Historical Building Code (CHBC). The CHBC’s standards and regulations are intended to facilitate the rehabilitation or change of occupancy so as to preserve their original or restored elements and features, to encourage energy conservation and a cost effective approach to preservation, and to provide for reasonable safety from fire, seismic forces or other hazards for occupants and users of such buildings, structures and properties and to provide reasonable availability and usability by the physically disabled.
  
  Additionally, historic properties are eligible to receive a decorative plaque that can be displayed on their property. More importantly changes to historic properties are guided by the City’s Historic Preservation Guidelines and Historic Preservation Ordinance.
- What is a Use Permit?
  Use permits allow flexibility in providing for, regulating, or preventing various uses, so they will be compatible with existing or desired conditions in their neighborhoods. Conditions of approval can be applied to projects to help reduce or avoid their negative impacts.
- What type of approval will I need for my business?
  The first step would be to identify the zoning for the location of your project. With this information you can reference Table 9 of the Zoning Regulations which indicates the land uses allowed by zone. This denotes what type of permit will be required to allow that use in each zoning district if allowed at all.
City Facilities
- Do I need a permit to use my portable barbecue in a park?
  Yes. Portable barbecues are not allowed in parks unless prior approval is granted. A permit and a $31 fee is required to bring a portable barbecue into any City Park. Please contact the Facility Reservation desk at 781-7222.
- How can I find out what construction work will be occurring in City Buildings?
  Contact the Public Works Building Maintenance Supervisor or call Public Works at 781-7200.
- How can I get permission to reserve a City Facility?
  All reservations must be made no less than seven working days prior to the event. All permits must be signed with all applicable fees paid no later than seven working days prior to the event. Reservations are made no more than three months in advance of the event (with the exception of the Jack House).
  
  Permits may be requested through the online reservation system or by contacting the reservation desk at (805) 781-7222.
  - Bounce House Permits
  - BBQ Reservations
  - Indoor Rentals
  Click here for Facility Fees
- How can I pay for my approved reservation online?
  SIgn into your account on ActiveNet through our website. Go to "My Account" and select "Pay on Account" (your balance due will be shown). Please email or call the Parks and Recreation Facility Reservations desk at 805-781-7222 if you have any questions.
- How can I report graffiti, trash or other problems in a City Park?
  Thank you for keeping an eye out on our parks! We are working to create a new online portal to report such issues, but aren't quite finished yet. In the meantime, please report any issues to the Parks Maintenance Supervisor at 781-7220.
- How do I contact animal control?
  The County of San Luis Obispo is in charge of Animal Regulations. You can contact them at 781-4400.
- How do I contact the Friends of the Adobes?
  For more information about Friends of the Adobes call 544-3867 or 541-2003.
- How do I get permission to use a City park?
  The Parks and Recreation Department processes special use permits related to the use of City parks and facilities. This includes:
  - Special Event Permits
  - Tournament Permit Application
  - Street Banner Permits
  - Film Permits
  - Long Term Reservations
  For more information on special permits, contact Devin Hyfield at (805) 781-7295
- How do I report a problem in a City Building?
  Contact Public Works at 781-7200 or use Ask SLO to submit a service request.
- How do I reserve the Jack House Gardens?
  Information about renting the Jack House Gardens can be found on our Historic Jack House and Gardens page and more details can be found on our Wedding and Event FAQs page.
- Is alcohol allowed in City parks?
  Alcohol is not allowed at any City facility unless written permission is granted by the Parks and Recreation Director or designee via permit. Usage of alcohol is only allowed within the areas designated on the permit.
- Is there a lost and found for City Buildings?
  Not an official one but you can try contacting a Parks and Recreation Coordinator at 781-7222 to see if anyone has turned in unclaimed property. You may also want to try the San Luis Obispo City Police Department at 1042 Walnut or call them at 781-7312.
- Is there a lost and found for City Parks?
  Sorry, there is no official Lost and Found, but you should contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 781-7300 or 781-7222 to see if anyone has turned in anything. You may also want to try the San Luis Obispo City Police Department at 1042 Walnut or call them at 781-7312.
- Is there a map showing all City Buildings?
  No, but we hope to have one available at some point the future.
- Is there a map showing all City parks and facilities?
  Yes! Please visit our Parks and Recreation Facilities map as well as our interactive Open Space and Trails map. Other maps of interest can be found on our City Maps page.
- What are the hours for City park use?
  City parks are open from 8 am to 10 pm.
- What equipment is available for use in the Library meeting rooms?
  The Conference Room has large white erase boards (pens/erasers are not provided) and tables and chairs for 40 people.
  
  The Community Room has a large drop screen, full kitchen (with no supplies), tables and chairs for 120 people, stage, podium and two microphones.
- What indoor facilities does the City rent out to the public?
  The City/County Library Community and Conference rooms, Meadow Park building, Senior Center and Ludwick Community Center are all available for reservation. All indoor facilities, depending upon availability, can be rented 7 days a week from 8 am to 10 pm.
  
  Request a reservation online or call us at 805-781-7222.
- Where can I see a listing of all available indoor and outdoor City facilities?
  A complete list of all our City facilities available for reservation can be found online or call us at 805-781-7222.
Code Enforcement
- How can I dispose of bulk items such as couches, mattresses, televisions, etc?
  SLO Garbage Company will pick up bulk items for a small fee. Call them at (805) 543-0875 to arrange for pick up. You can also donate items! View the SLO County IWMA page for local outlets (some provide free pickup).
- How can I dispose of household hazardous materials such as paint, motor oil, etc?
  Cold Canyon Landfill accepts household hazardous materials free of charge. The household hazardous waste facility is open on Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. There is a 15 gallon volume limit per trip. For more information, visit their website.
- How does City staff become aware of potential code violations?
  City residents can report suspected code violations via our website www.slocity.org/Ask, or by calling the Code Enforcement Hotline at (805) 781-7180. Beginning in May 2012, staff will be proactively patrolling to identify violations of property maintenance standards in public view (i.e.: front yard blight).
- I received a Notice to Correct for violations in my front yard , what does that mean?
  City staff is currently working in neighborhoods to inform residents if they have any property maintenance code violations on their property. You will notice that staff has checked one or more boxes on the Notice to Correct indicating any issues observed on your property. This is NOT a citation, it is a formal warning. In May 2012, staff started proactively patrolling neighborhoods and issuing warnings and citations for violations. You can use the contact information on the Notice to Correct form to address any questions you may have about specific violations on your property.
- Someone in our neighborhood has left a basketball hoop on the street creating parking restrictions. What can be done about this?
  If a basketball hoop is in the public right-of-way, it becomes a safety hazard and is in violation of the City of San Luis Obispo Municipal Code 12.04.020. Feel free to contact the Traffic Hotline at (805) 781-7597 to report a basketball hoop on a City street or sidewalk.
- What are some examples of City codes the City staff enforce?
  City staff from the Community Development Department focus on enforcing violations of local and state building codes, the City's Zoning Regulations, and City property maintenance standards. Common code violations in San Luis Obispo are:
  
  illegally converted garages
  
  unpermitted construction
  
  substandard housing (i.e. no heat, plumbing leaks, etc.)
  
  land use or use permit violations
  
  improper storage of debris or materials in yards.
- What happens if my property is in violation?
  Once City staff has observed a violation on your property you will be given a Notice to Correct. This gives a specific time frame, depending on the violation, in which you are required to bring your property into compliance. If the violation is not corrected within the time frame given, you will be subject to fees and/or citations until compliance is achieved. You can view a Code Enforcement Process flow chart on our website for more details.
- What is Code Enforcement?
  City of San Luis Obispo Code Enforcement staff members are part of the Community Development Department. Code Enforcement Officers and Neighborhood Services Specialists are responsible for enforcing Building Codes and Zoning Regulations to provide for the health, safety, and general welfare of all City residents. These codes are different than laws enforced by the Police and Fire Departments, because they mostly relate to property issues rather than issues directly related to a person. However, an individual can be held responsible if their property, whether it is owned or leased, is in violation.
- Why does the City enforce violations of Building and Zoning Regulations?
  The goal of enforcement is to ensure city-wide conformity to Building and Zoning Regulations to maintain safety and enhance quality of life for all residents. The quality of life in San Luis Obispo is tied to the character and conditions of its neighborhoods. Enforcing violations stops unsafe issue from continuing and prevents future violations from occurring. Specifically, enforcing property maintenance standards protects the appearance, integrity and character of the community, as well as helps maintain property values for owners.
Community Resources
- Does the City provide childcare and are au pairs offered as an option?
  The City provides before and after childcare services to the community whether children attend on a regular basis or just drop in on an as needed basis, they will be welcomed into the program. Many other providers such as the YMCA and private providers also provide childcare. Meghan Burger at the City can provide more details about City programs, and she can be reached at Burger, Meghan mburger@slocity.org or at 805-781- 7070. An overview of programs can be found here. Au pars are a service that are provided by the private sector and there are commercially available websites that can provide references and links for those services. Referral services and other business referrals can be sought at the Chamber of Commerce. CAPSLO can aid those seeking general childcare here.
- Help SLO - Community Supports and Requests
  HelpSLO is a collection of community supports and requests for help from around the Central Coast. For City specific help please join HelpSLO's community Facebook page for up to date information.
- What resources are available to the most vulnerable people in our community?
  Community Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo County (CAPSLO) provides services to over 30,000 individuals in 11 California Counties. CAPSLO focuses on the most vulnerable people in the community and seeks ways to help them become self-sufficient.
  
  CAPSLO takes the health and well-being of our client families, our staff, and our community with the utmost seriousness. As the COVID-19 health crisis intensifies and as school districts have closed and other recommendations by public health agencies have been made to keep the people safe, CAPSLO has made the following adjustments to their programs and services click here to read more.
  
  CAPSLO is looking for volunteers! To help at the 40 Prado Center please submit an application online at www.capslo.org/volunteer
- When will the County provide substance and detox options for women?
  A great question and one that we can forward to the Board of Supervisors and the City will advocate on the community’s behalf for equitable treatment options for everyone. Currently, women who need detox services leave the area. The County currently contracts for women’s residential treatment facilities with medication assisted treatment in nearby counties. The County intends to evaluate the local need and a potential facility during its strategic planning effort for alcohol, drug and mental health services.
Conservation
- Do I need a permit for my rainwater collection system?
  Per City of San Luis Obispo Municipal Code, the following must be met to be exempt from a permit for rainwater collection:
  
  "A water tank or a group of water tanks intended for storage of irrigation water only supported directly on grade if the capacity does not exceed 600 gallons in total on a parcel, the height does not exceed seven feet, the ratio of height to width does not exceed 2:1 (provided that water tanks with minor ratio deviances may be allowed under this section in the discretion of the Chief Building Official, subject to review of the deviation by the Chief Building Official and verification that such minor deviations do not adversely impact structural stability), and it is not visible from the public right-of-way that abuts the front yard".
- How can I report water waste in my community?
  Water waste can be reported by calling to Utilities Administration at 781-7215 or by reporting through the City's community app AskSLO.
- How much water is left in our reservoirs?
  Water supply and reservoir levels can be found on our Water Sources page.
- Is the City offering turf removal rebates?
  Currently, the City does not offer any incentives for homeowners to remove their lawn. Over the years the City adopted and administered many rebate programs such as the low flow toilet/faucet/shower head rebate program (1990-2007), the high efficiency washing machine rebate program (2000-2011), the high efficiency sprinkler rebate program (2007-2010), the weather based irrigation control rebate program (2007-2010), and the low-flow toilet replacement and water efficient washing machine rebate programs (2015-2017). Each of these programs were available city-wide and highly utilized by the community. As participation dwindled, these programs were eliminated and we have turned our focus to water audit and leak detection programs.
  
  While we don’t have a turf removal program in place at this time, it doesn't mean we won’t in the future. We acknowledge that we are often affected by drought and have taken many measures to conserve water. For instance, most of the City’s large parks as well as many large private development lawns are irrigated with recycled water.
- What about changes to building codes such as requiring rain harvesting and gray water systems for new development?
  The City recently adopted simplified guidelines for gray water systems and rain collection, but it is not currently a requirement for new development.
Cultural Arts District Parking Structure
- How long will it take to build? What is the timeline?
  It’s going to take about two years to build the parking structure. Construction is planned in two separate phases.
  
  Phase I
  - Spring 2023 (May): Demolition of vacant buildings
  - Fall 2023 (September): Demolition of the current surface parking lot
  Phase II
  - Fall 2023: Construction begins
  - Late 205: Construction complete
- How many parking spaces will there be in the new parking structure and what other features will it have for the general public?
  When completed, the Cultural Arts Parking Structure will stand at five stories and provide the community with 397 new parking spaces, 41 of which will have electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. The parking structure will be wired to expand EV charging stations in other parking spaces as needed in the future.
  
  There will also be 32 bike racks for easy bike parking and solar panels on the roof to reduce energy costs to operate the facility. Community members can also rent rooftop event space by contacting the City's Parks and Recreation Department.
  
  The structure will be accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It will serve residents who live downtown and visitors.
- What are all the parking options in downtown?
  Curbside and metered parking is available throughout downtown even while the City builds the new Cultural Arts District Parking Structure. Learn more about the City’s parking services like current rates, accessible parking, mobile apps and payment stations, and more. The City also has three safe and convenient existing parking structures located at the following addresses:
  - 842 Palm St.
  - 919 Palm St.
  - 871 Marsh St.
- What is the background on the Cultural Arts District Parking Structure? How is it related to SLO Rep Theater and the Arts community in downtown San Luis Obispo?
  The City of SLO currently owns the surface parking lot (Parking Lot 14) in the west end of downtown, bordered by Monterey, Nipomo and Palm streets. The City is building a new multilevel structure on this lot to meet parking demand and steward this area’s future as the “cultural corridor” of downtown, as noted in the City’s Downtown Concept Plan.
  
  The new structure will provide critical parking services for the future patrons of SLO Repertory Theater, SLOMA, the History Center, SLO Children’s Museum, and Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa/Mission Plaza. SLO Repertory Theater has plans underway to build a new performing arts center (construction will start after the parking structure is complete, target opening is 2026-27), and SLOMA will resume its capital campaign in the future for a new building (target opening unknown).
  
  For more information about the project, visit www.slocity.org/CulturalArtsParking.
- What is the cost of the Cultural Arts District Parking Structure project? How is the parking structure being financed?
  The City is investing $52 million in this project to support downtown businesses and residents.
  
  During the pandemic, the City did not charge for parking downtown to help support local businesses, which resulted in a $4 million gap in funding. Additionally, in the wake of the pandemic, construction costs increased and interest rates went up. To help offset these losses and costs, in 2022 the City Council voted to adjust parking rates incrementally over time.
  
  To cover up-front costs, the structure will be debt-financed, meaning that there will be a long-term loan in place to pay for construction, and the City will repay that loan with interest over time using parking revenue. The City’s Parking Services department is an independent financial unit, so no tax revenues or other City funds can be used for parking projects or initiatives, including the financing of this new structure.
- When is the next parking structure opening?
  The Cultural Arts District Parking Structure project will be completed in two phases. Phase 1 in Spring 2023: Parking lot preparation and demolition of vacant buildings. Phase 2 in Fall 2023: Parking structure vertical construction; completion and parking structure opening is expected in late 2025. For up-to-date information about the project click here.
- Where will the Cultural Arts District Parking Structure be located?
  The new parking structure will be built downtown where Parking Lot 14 is currently located at the corner of Palm, Nipomo and Monterey streets.
- Why is the City building a new parking structure?
  San Luis Obispo’s downtown has three existing parking structures, and it's been nearly 20 years since the last structure was built. Since 2003, the City has collaborated with the community to evaluate and plan for a fourth structure, and a 2022 study illustrated that this structure is needed to meet both current and projected parking demand in support of a dynamic, accessible and sustainable downtown.

Development

Do we have pre-planned options for quicker and cheaper ADUs?
ADU production is approaching 200/yr. (in 2023) up from just a handful five years ago. Each lot and area are different, and it is very difficult to prepare pre-planned sets that work on every parcel given design, geologic and other conditions. Our fees have been scaled to promote ADU’s and there are $5k rebates for SLO all electric ADU’s through 3CE program. Prefab ADU’s maybe an efficient strategy to reduce overall costs.
How can I comment on a project?
Review hearing agendas on the CDD website and contact the Project Planner via email or phone if you have questions. Submit comments to the Planner or attend public hearings.
How can I find out what zone my property is in?
Use the GIS Parcel Map to find your zoning.
How do I appeal a decision?
Depending on the type of approval you will appeal, the appeal may have to go to hearing. You will have to turn in an appeals form and pay a fee. Learn more here.

How long will it take for my project to be approved?

How many bedrooms/units can I have? Aka Density
Reference Section 17.16.010 of the Zoning Regulations (p.35-37) to find information about the maximum density (density units per net acre) of development allowed in your zone.
How many homes will be built in the next two years - affordable home versus market rate?
Housing production has been a Major City Goal for several financial plans and the City has prioritized programs that support new housing production. Lack of affordable and workforce housing continues to be an obstacle for many residents in San Luis Obispo. The good news is that the City is purposefully growing in alignment with the community’s long-range plans and highest priorities. Current levels of residential growth are consistent with the City’s Growth Management Ordinance and the City’s obligations to accommodate its Regional Housing Needs Allocation. The City has planned its resources to support a build-out” population of 57,200 residents, while the current State population estimate for the City is 47,653 residents as of January 1, 2022. Below are the latest housing production numbers from State Housing and Community Development.

The following is the projected buildout through 2035 with the caveat that the City does not build housing and that market dynamics will largely dictate the pace of buildout under the City’s Growth Management Ordinance. Roughly 200-300 units/yr. are projected today over the next few years. There are 500- 700 new affordable housing projects that are likely to be built in the next five years depending on the availability of affordable housing funding. A comprehensive overview of the City’s management of growth and related planning and development efforts can be found in the 2022 General Plan Annual Report.
How many parking spaces do I need?
See section 17.16.060 (p.55-68) of the 2013 Zoning Regulations for parking space requirements.
How much will my application cost?
The cost of an application will vary depending on the type of permit or approval needed and the scope of review a project will require. Fees for projects can be found at the following link. This is separate from the fees associated with building permit inspections and plan review. Building review and inspection fees are related to the square footage and type of project. For more information please call the Building and Safety Division at 805-781-7180.

Planning Services Fee Schedule

Building: New Construction Fee Schedule - INSPECTION FEES

Building: New Construction Fee Schedule - PLAN CHECK FEES
How tall can I build my fence?
See section 17.16.050 (p. 52-55) for height limits on fences, walls, and hedges. Fence height limits are a function of your front property line and minimum required yard. The Community Development Director may grant exceptions to fence height standards subject to a finding that no public purpose would be served by strict compliance with the standards.
How tall can I build my structure?
See section 17.16.040 (p. 51-52) of the 2013 Zoning Regulations for building height limits. The height of a building is the vertical distance from the average level of the ground under the building to the topmost point of the roof, including parapets.
I want to build an accessory building on my property? What is the process? What can I build?
This depends to the scope of the project and how existing buildings and lots are configured. Check your zoning, look at the Zoning Regulations, and then contact the Planning Department if you still have questions.
My property is on the Master or Contributing list of historic resources, what does this mean?
This means your property has been determined to be a locally significant historic resource because of significant architecture or historical themes. Properties determined to be a historic resource may be eligible for benefits such as the Mills Act. Likewise, building owners of qualified historic properties can follow the more flexible California State Historical Building Code (CHBC). The CHBC’s standards and regulations are intended to facilitate the rehabilitation or change of occupancy so as to preserve their original or restored elements and features, to encourage energy conservation and a cost effective approach to preservation, and to provide for reasonable safety from fire, seismic forces or other hazards for occupants and users of such buildings, structures and properties and to provide reasonable availability and usability by the physically disabled.

Additionally, historic properties are eligible to receive a decorative plaque that can be displayed on their property. More importantly changes to historic properties are guided by the City’s Historic Preservation Guidelines and Historic Preservation Ordinance.
Should I do Pre-Application review?
Although Pre-Application is not required, it may highlight any fatal flaws in your project before submitting a more costly application. Projects possessing one or more of the following characteristics should do Pre-Application review:
- Residential Projects > 20 Dwelling Units
- Mixed-Use Projects
- Commercial Projects > 20,000 Sq. Ft. New Development
- Projects Located in Annexation or Expansion areas
- Projects > Three Stories
- Hillside Development on Slopes > 20%
- Large Tract Maps > 25 lots
- Projects Requiring an EIR
- General Plan or Specific Plan Amendments
- Rezones
- Areas not served by Utilities
What are current projects in the City?
The following is a link to projects currently in the development review entitlement process, entitled, but have not submitted a building permit application, in the plan check process, or under construction.
What are my setbacks?
See section 17.16.10 (p. 38-44) for yard setbacks and 17.16.025 (p. 45-49) for creek setbacks. A yard is defined as an area along a property line within which no structures, parking spaces or parking backup spaces may be located, except as otherwise provided in the zoning regulations. Creek setback requirements apply to all creeks as defined in the Open Space Element and shown on that element’s Creek Map, and only those creeks
What does Architectural Review evaluate?
Architectural review evaluates the suitability and appropriateness of individual project design and to help achieve attractive and environmentally sensitive development. Review the City’s Design Guidelines to learn more click here.
What is a Use Permit?
Use permits allow flexibility in providing for, regulating, or preventing various uses, so they will be compatible with existing or desired conditions in their neighborhoods. Conditions of approval can be applied to projects to help reduce or avoid their negative impacts.
What is that weird (new) 3-headed signal?
This new device is called a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB), also commonly referred to as a “HAWK” signal. It is a traffic control device used to stop road traffic and allow pedestrians and bicyclists to cross safely. At a PHB, the beacon remains dark until the push button to cross is activated by a pedestrian or bicyclists intending to cross. Upon activation, the beacons begin flashing yellow, then steady yellow, then solid red. During the solid red phase, drivers must remain stopped while users cross from the side street. Prior to returning to dark, the beacons display an alternating flashing red “wig-wag” that allows drivers to stop and proceed when clear, as they would with a stop sign.
What materials do I need to submit for an exception?
Once you determine which exception you will need, submit a planning application along with the materials listed on the application checklist appropriate for the type of permit needed for your project. Bring the planning application, the checklist, and the requested materials to the counter when you submit your application. If an application is missing an item required by the checklist, your application will not be accepted.
Will a traffic impact study be required and if so what is the process?
The determination for a traffic impact study will be made at the beginning of the application process. The following are example development sizes that would trigger a transportation impact study. These are just example scenarios, traffic impact studies may be required for smaller projects under special circumstances.
1. 100 Single Family Units
2. 150 Multi Family Units
3. 150 Room Hotel
4. 10,000 SQFT Restaurant
5. 25,000 SQFT Retail
6. 65,000 SQFT Office
7. 125,000 SQFT Manufacturing
The City only accepts traffic studies that are prepared independent of the applicant. Studies are administered by the City and paid for by the applicant via a reimbursement agreement. The applicant may hire their own traffic consultant to help develop their project and review the traffic study, however that consultant would be conflicted out of preparing the actual traffic study.

Once the applicant has finalized their project description the City will prepare a scope for the study and submit it to the applicant for review. Then the City will advertise the scope to a list of on-call traffic consultants and award based on the best proposal.

Below is an example time table for traffic impact studies, actual schedules will vary depending on the size of the project and scope of the study.
1. Draft Scope & Applicant Review: 1 Week
2. Advertise RFP & Select Consultant: 3 Weeks
3. Complete Applicant Reimbursement Agreement: 1 Week
4. Complete Traffic Study: 10 Weeks

Encampments
- How do I report an encampment on Caltrans property?
  Encampments on Caltrans Property are addressed by Caltrans District 5 maintenance staff. To report encampments to Caltrans, please visit: csr.dot.ca.gov or call the District 5 dedicated line at (805) 441-5712.
- How do I report an encampment on private property?
  Encampments on private property are assigned to the City's Code Enforcement Team and trespassing enforcement will be addressed by SLOPD. To report encampments on private property, please submit an Ask SLO request, under topic area "Transient Encampment on Private Property."
- What is the expected response time for encampment requests to be addressed?
  In compliance with our CAMP standards, we first ensure encampment inhabitants are provided the opportunity for assistance and access to resources through our Community Action Team (CAT) or our Mobile Crisis Unit (MCU). We then post a Notice to Vacate, which informs inhabitants they are in violation of the law and provides a deadline for inhabitants to vacate the premises. The site is then scheduled for cleanup and will be addressed by our Public Works department. Due to this multi-level process, the resolution of your request may take up to three weeks to be completed. Thank you for your patience in this process.
- What resources does the City provide to prevent and address homelessness?
  While the County government is primarily responsible for providing public services to unhoused individuals in our city, we recognize that there are things the City can do to reduce homelessness within our City limits. Here’s what we’re currently doing: First, we’re focused on making it easier to build more affordable and workforce housing here. Second, we are working directly with local non-profit partners and the County to reduce homelessness. And third, we have boots through our MCU and CAT Field Teams on the ground every day connecting unhoused community members with services to help get them back on their feet. To see a more in depth look at what the city is doing to prevent and address homelessness, please see our Homelessness Response Strategic Plan.
eNotification
- How do I receive alerts about Public Works construction bids and proposals?
  The City uses eBidboard to advertise construction projects. Please visit our Public Works Bids & Proposals page for more info.
- How do I unsubscribe?
  Anyone can unsubscribe from our email updates by clicking the "Manage Subscriptions" link at the bottom of the most recent email update received.
- How often will I receive email updates?
  The City provides public information frequently via our online news center and calendars. Every time a news or calendar item for the topic you selected is added to the City's website, you will receive an email update. Some topics may have more frequent updates than others.
- Who will have access to my email address?
  Your email address will only be used for official City business.
Fee Study
- For assessed fees, what is the “reasonable cost” of a service?
  The basic concept of a User Fee Study is to determine the “reasonable cost” of each service provided by the City for which it charges a user fee. The full cost of providing a service may not necessarily become the City’s fee, but it serves as the objective basis for the maximum amount that may be collected.
- How are Development Impact Fees used?
  Development Impact Fees pay for a variety of products and services within the City of San Luis Obispo. They keep infrastructure and facilities maintained and ensure our emergency services have funding.
- How does the City determine cost recovery for fees?
  The reality of the local government fee environment is that significant increases to achieve 100% cost recovery is often not feasible, desirable, or appropriate depending on policy direction — particularly in a single year. The recommended fees identified herein are either at or less than full cost recovery, and are based on the City’s cost recovery policy, outlined in the Financial Plan (starting on p. 538).
- How does the City use Impact Fees?
  Development Impact Fee revenue is collected and used to cover the cost of capital facilities (e.g., parking structures) and infrastructure (e.g., bridges) required to serve new development in the City. Impact fee revenue cannot be used to cover the operation and maintenance costs of these or any other facilities or infrastructure. Impact fees can only be used to pay for new or expanded capital facilities needed to accommodate growth.
- What is a User & Impact Fee Study? 
  The purpose of the study is to develop an updated schedule of fees that accounts for the true costs of providing user-requested services, and updated fees charged to developers to offset the impact of their projects on existing facilities.
  
  The study has two components:
  1. User Fee Study: First, it is a review of the City’s existing fees for services excluding Water and Sewer rates (subject to Proposition 218), and Parking and Transit rate-based fees. The study involves multiple Departments and identifies the “reasonable cost” of providing services, as City staff currently provides them, at existing, known, or reasonably anticipated service and staff levels; it then compares the result to the current fee amount to determine whether it’s recovering the full cost of the service provided. The fee study also provides an opportunity to add new fee recommendations or remove outdated fees or services.
  2. Impact Fee Nexus Study: Second, it is a review of the City’s adopted development impact fees (AB 1600) for transportation, parks and recreation, police, fire, water and wastewater.
- Where can I view the current Comprehensive Fee Schedule?
  View a PDF file of the current Comprehensive Fee Schedule, updated for FY 2022-23.
- Who pays Development Impact Fees?
  Any property owner that wishes to build the following will pay Development Impact Fees:
  - Any new residential or non-residential development
  - Additions and expansions to existing non-residential development
  - Additions and expansions to residential developments that paid discounted impact fees
  - Additions, expansions and remodels that result in a change of land use
- Why is a fee study needed now?
  A fee study is typically performed by local governments every 3-5 years to adjust user fees and charges to changing costs and circumstances. The last fee study the City completed was more than five (5) years ago (in 2017).
  
  In California, user fees are required to conform to the statutory requirements of the California Constitution, Proposition 218, and the California Code of Regulations. The law also requires that the City Council adopt fees by either ordinance or resolution. Any fees set higher than the estimated total cost of providing the related services must be approved by a popular vote of two-thirds of voters because the charge would then be considered a tax and not a fee.
  
  In the interim, user fees were adjusted by annual changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and impact fees were adjusted annually by the California Construction Cost Index (CCCI) for impact fees, as the City has been impacted by cost increases and inflationary pressures on labor, materials and supplies. Additionally, in rare cases, additional changes have been made to ensure that cost recoveries were more in line with Council-approved guidelines.
  
  Scope of the User Fee Study
  
  The scope of the User Fee Study encompasses a review and calculation of the user fees listed in the existing Comprehensive Fee Schedule and charged by the following City of San Luis Obispo Departments, as well as any general government fees charged by various departments (copies, recordings, etc).
  - Community Development
  - Public Works
  - Parks & Recreation
  - Police
  - Fire
  - Finance
  - City Clerk
  - Utilities
  Scope of the Impact Fee Study
  
  The scope of this study encompasses a review and calculation of the development impact fees listed in the Comprehensive Fee Schedule, including:
  - Transportation Impact Fees
  - Parkland Impact Fees
  - Police Impact Fees
  - Fire Impact Fees
  - Water & Wastewater Impact Fees
Fire Department Operations in SLO
- Are all firefighters paramedics and do they all fight fires?
- How can I become a SLO City Firefighter?
  The City of San Luis Obispo typically tests for Firefighter every other year and is looking for compassionate, friendly, physically, and mentally strong individuals. Please review the job description for information about the minimum qualifications for Firefighter and sign up for job opening alerts through our Human Resources portal.
  
  Over the past few years, the City has hired lateral firefighters and firefighter-paramedics from other fire departments throughout the State of California. We are challenged in our ability to hire non-California firefighters because of the lack of interstate reciprocity for Firefighter certification. Candidates who wish to work for San Luis Obispo City Fire should pursue California State Fire Marshal certification as well as reciprocity for their EMT-Basic or Paramedic certifications. For out-of-state applicants, obtaining National Registry Certification is typically the best first step in this process.
  
  The City of San Luis Obispo requires applicants to be at least 18 years old, with a valid driver’s license, a California State Firefighter Academy certificate and a current EMT-B or EMT-P certificate. The City is currently using CAL JAC Firefighter Candidate Testing Center for recruitments. Please click here for more information: https://www.fctconline.org/
  - Oral Interview: FCTC candidates meeting SLO City FD requirements will be screened for overall fit and invited to the Oral Interview process based on qualifications. Only the top applicants will be invited to participate in an oral interview. The interview panel shall interview prospective candidates and shall be comprised of personnel from the Fire Department and a representative from the City's Human Resources Department.
  - Background Check: All successful applicants shall be subject to a reference check, a credit history check, and a criminal record check.
  - Medical Exam: Any applicant passing all previous segments of the process will have thorough medical examination by a licensed physician of the City's choice and a valid and job-related psychological examination performed by a licensed psychologist of the City's choice.
  - Fire Academy: Recruit firefighters will go through a fire academy for approximately 10 weeks before being assigned to an engine or truck company.
  - Probationary Period: Original appointments to the Fire Department shall be for probationary period of 12 months from date of hire.
  - Firefighting is an extremely arduous career, which is why our fitness standards are very high. While the San Luis Obispo currently relies on third-party pre-employment fitness testing and certification, successful candidates will find that the minimum expectations for on-the-job application of fitness and skills are significant. For more information, please consider San Luis Obispo Fire's Basic Performance Evaluation. This hands-on manipulative evolution is one example of an evolution that is used to assess technical skills and physical fitness for our Emergency Response personnel. In developing a fitness regimen for testing as well as for understanding the fitness expectations for all SLO City Firefighters, candidates are encouraged to consider this evaluation tool, which requires strength, flexibility, aerobic and anaerobic endurance, and tenacity.
  Other than during the open application phase, qualified Firefighter candidates are encouraged to schedule a ride-along with a SLO City fire crew. You can schedule a ride-along by contacting us via email, and please include your full name and contact phone number. Because our employees are our most vital asset in delivering our community-focused mission, Fire Chief Aggson is willing to meet with qualified Firefighter candidates prior to the open application process. During this optional one-on-one time, interested potential applicants are encouraged to bring a current resume. You can schedule a meeting with Chief Aggson via email.
  
  Our standards for meeting the minimum qualifications for employment consideration are high. We are looking for highly skilled professional firefighters. Having said that, our expectations for personal character are even higher. We've often said that competence is the minimum expectation, and character is what sets successful candidates apart. Our comprehensive testing process and background investigations assess both competence and character.
  
  Here are some recommendations to help you navigate starting a career in the Fire Service.
  - Have a plan
  - Training/Education:
  - Fire Department Reserve and Seasonal jobs contacts:
  It is a great career but requires a lot of training and dedication to get there. You will take lots of tests and interviews but keep your head up and stay focused. It is entirely worth it!
- If I have fire sprinklers in my home or business, is it going to flood and ruin everything if I have a fire?
  With very few exceptions, fire suppression sprinkler systems are designed so that water flows only through those sprinkler heads in closest proximity to the fire. Unfortunately, most Hollywood movies make commercial and residential fire suppression sprinkler activation look much more dramatic than in real life. Once again, don't believe everything you see in the movies and on TV!
  
  If a fire occurs in a home or office equipped with sprinklers, the heat from the fire essentially opens the flow of water from those sprinkler heads closest to the fire. In many cases, only one head is activated. Sprinkler systems are designed to hold a fire in check so that it does not spread. These systems have water-flow alarms built into them, which directly or indirectly result in the Fire Department responding to completely extinguish the fire. A single fire sprinkler discharges about 20-40 gallons of water per minute, much less than the 100-250 gallons per minute discharged by a fire hose.
- If there's an evacuation, where will be asked to go?
  The City and County of San Luis Obispo do not post a public list of evacuation locations for several reasons. The primary reason is that we thoughtfully determine which evacuation site is appropriate given the conditions immediately preceding the emergency/disaster. There isn’t an evacuation location predesignated for each neighborhood because we won’t know which site to send people to until we know the conditions creating the evacuation need. We wouldn’t want to predesignate a specific evacuation site for a given neighborhood in advance of a wildfire, for example, because we need to understand the fire’s behavior and path in order to identify and communicate safe evacuation routes and locations.
  
  The other reason we don’t have a list of evacuation sites on our website is because the American Red Cross is the agency that contracts with facilities throughout the County to maintain the list of participating agencies and locations that function as evacuation sites. County Animal Services partners with the American Red Cross to deploy mobile animal kennel trailers to evacuation sites to accommodate evacuees with pets.
  
  When there is a potential or urgent need to activate an evacuation shelter, the City, County Office of Emergency Services, and the American Red Cross collaborate to identify the evacuation zone, routes for egress, evacuation site location(s), and evacuee support and information. We push that message out through law enforcement officers making notifications in the evacuation area, through Reserve 911 (click here to learn more about the Sheriff’s Reverse 911 system and to register your mobile phone), and through emergency notifications via our media partners. The evacuation notification via all these methods would identify the zone to be evacuated, the safe routes for evacuation, and the location of evacuation sites.
  
  Please visit the Fire Department's webpage dedicated to disaster preparedness to make sure you are ready for disaster!
- Why do we have 4 fire stations and so many firefighters on duty?
- Why does San Luis Obispo need 4 fire stations?
- Why does SLOFD have UTVs and E-Bikes?
Flood Control Program
- Does the City have a map showing flood zones?
  Yes! We have an interactive map on our Get Ready SLO pages where you can select the type of information you'd like to see or call Public Works at 781-7220 for more information.
  
  If you are interested in Flood Zones, Flood Insurance, or developing in a flood zone contact Development Review at 781-7200.
- How can I find out more on preparing for the winter storms?
  Please visit our Get Ready SLO pages for information on winter weather and flood preparedness.
- How can I find out what creek improvements are planned?
  We are working on an online project list, but in the meantime please contact the Public Works Engineering Division by calling 781-7200.
- How can I get information on creeks in general?
  You should contact the Development Review Division by calling 781-7015.
- What is the schedule for creek and storm drain maintenance?
  The City inspects the major creeks and minor waterways each year before the rainy season. That way, work can be performed each year before the rains come down.
- What is Winter Weather Preparedness?
  For more information on preparing for the winter storms and protecting your property visit our Get Ready SLO pages!
- Where can I find more flood information?
  For information about winter preparedness or protecting your property from flooding, visit our Get Ready SLO pages or call Public Works at 781-7220 for more information.
- Who is responsible for creek maintenance?
  It depends. The creeks through the city are mostly on private property, so each individual owner has a responsibility to make sure the creek is not obstructed with growth or debris. However, the City has identified certain locations that regularly cause problems and has taken on the responsibility of cleaning and maintaining them.
Flood Preparation Guide
- But aren't I safe inside my car?
  NO! More people drown in their cars than anywhere else during a flood. Do not underestimate the power of water - only two feet of water can sweep away an automobile! Do not drive through a flooded area. Do not drive around road barricades; they are posted for a reason! The road or bridge may be washed out or unstable, or may be subject to swift currents.
- Do I live in a flood zone?
  To find out if your property might be located within one of the flood zones, see the Flood Map or feel free to give us a call for more specific information at 781-7201.
- How can I protect my property from flood damage?
  There are several ways to protect your property and prevent or minimize flood damage. Options range from sandbagging around flood-prone areas to waterproofing walls to completely raising the structure. Call us at 781-RAIN for assistance. The Winter Weather Guide page gives detailed information about sandbags and all kinds of other good stuff.
  
  If you live next to a creek or drainage way, find out its past history before the rainy season hits. Then, during heavy storms, keep a watch on the rising water and report any potential problems you see to the authorities at the City Yard, 781-7220. That way, we can do what we can to help prevent or eliminate flooding, property damage or loss of life.
- How can I stay safe if I must travel during a storm?
  Be extra aware of your surroundings and possible hazards. Pay special attention to road conditions. Note the amount of water flowing in or across flooded streets and under or over bridges. Do not attempt to cross flooded streets. Avoid problem areas and always plan an alternate route, if possible, before you leave your home or business. Make sure to tell someone where you are going and when you should reach your destination.
  
  Do not walk through flowing water. Drowning is the number one case of flood deaths, mostly during flash floods. Currents can be deceptive; six inches of moving water can cause you to lose your footing.
- How long does a flood usually last?
  Flooding can last from 30 minutes to several hours - not too long, normally. There's a catch, though: Flooding can occur with little or no warning, and even short-lived floods can do serious damage. In fact, any flooding situation usually causes some damage. During past storms (most recently in 1994), many of these usually calm waterways overflowed, flooding nearby businesses and homes.
  
  You may be lucky. Your property may be high enough that it was not flooded recently. But that doesn't mean you should rest on your laurels. If you are in a floodplain, the odds are that someday your property will suffer some sort of damage.
- How will I know if there is a flood danger during a storm?
  "For the next 60 seconds, this station will conduct a test of the Emergency Broadcast System...Bzzzz. Beeeeep." Yes, it's annoying. But it's essential during a flood situation. In coordination with the local Office of Emergency Services, the County of San Luis Obispo and the National Weather Service issue emergency flood warnings through the local radio and television stations. Learn which stations they are beforehand and stay informed by listening to these early warnings and advisories.
- I still have more flood questions. Can you help?
  Yes! Please give the folks at the SLO Public Works Department at 781-RAIN. You can also check out our Winter Weather Guide or the the other Get Ready SLO pages for more ways on how to protect yourself, your loved ones and your property from storm and flood damage.
  
  We're ready for anything. And you can be, too!
- If my property's in the floodplain, does that mean I can't develop it?
  Just because you own property in a flood zone does not mean that you can't develop it. Usually you can, but you will encounter stricter flood zone specific development conditions. Construction costs will usually be higher, as will design costs. All new buildings must be raised above the established flood levels (commercial buildings may incorporate flood proofing if, in the opinion of the City, elevating the building is not feasible).
- Is it OK to watch the rushing water? It's so beautiful...
  During heavy storms, many people want to park their car or stand on bridges over creeks to watch the swift-moving water. However, in a matter of seconds, large floating objects, like a fallen tree, can jam under the bridge, forcing the rushing water over the top of the bridge and possibly sweeping you, your car and anything else into the creek. Stay away from creeks and bridges!
- Is there anything else I can do to get ready?
  Absolutely! You can clean out the gunk from the drainage ways around your property. And if you notice that one of the public drainage systems is blocked, please call us and let us know so we can clean up the mess. Debris, vegetation or anything blocking the drainage way can easily be removed during the dry season and can dramatically reduce flooding problems during winter storms.
  
  The City inspects the major creeks and many of the minor waterways each year before the rainy season. But you can help by reporting any fallen trees or broken drains and pipes. Doing so is a great help and allows us to make repairs before the rains come down.
- OK, what if I just want to remodel my building - which happens to be in a flood zone?
  If you own a building in a flood zone and decide to remodel it or add on, you may be required to bring the building into compliance with the current flood regulations. This occurs when the total value of your remodels or additions (during any ten-year period) equals or exceeds fifty percent (50%) of the market value of the building before the new improvements are done. The market value does not include the value of the land.
- What can you tell me about flood insurance?
  Anyone can carry flood insurance; it is not limited to those properties in designated flood zones. If you don't have flood insurance, talk to your insurance agent. Homeowner's insurance policies generally do not cover damage from floods. However, because the City of San Luis Obispo participates in the National Flood Insurance program, you can purchase a separate flood insurance policy. This insurance is backed by the federal government and is available to everyone, even if your property has been flooded.
- What does our local floodplain consist of?
  There are four major streams - and numerous minor waterways - which cause flooding in San Luis Obispo. The four major streams are San Luis Obispo Creek, Stenner Creek, Old Garden Creek and Prefumo Creek. Memorize these names and where they are. Impress your friends at your next party.
- What should I do if I see downed power lines?
  Stay away from power and electrical wires! We're serious here: The second leading cause of death in floods is electrocution. Electrical current can travel through even a small amount of water. Report any downed power lines to Pacific Gas & Electric Company (800) 743-5000 or the City Police Dept. at 781-7317.
Free Parking
- How can I add time to my parking session?
  If you need to add time to your parking session, you can extend your current session. You must use the same app or pay station you used when you first arrived.
  
  Watch these “how-to” videos on how to extend your session.
  
  HONK App: How to add time to your parking session
  
  ParkMobile App: How to add time to your parking session
  
  PaybyPhone App: How to add time to your parking session
- What do parking rates pay for?
  When you pay for parking, the money collected goes into the City’s Parking Fund. The City’s policy is to that parking services and programs only be funded with parking rates and fees that users pay (rather than taxes). This fund is then used to cover the costs of all parking programs, operations and new facilities, such as rate-reduction programs; parking operations, safety, and enforcement services; repairs to parking facilities; and upgrades to parking technology. Additionally, parking funds support other programs including SLO Transit Downtown Access Pass and active transportation infrastructure.
- What is a parking session?
  A parking session is the paid session that you will start as soon as parking. The parking session can be initiated at an in-structure pay station or using one of the supported mobile apps (HONK, ParkMobile, or PaybyPhone).
- Why do I have to pay for parking in the gateless parking structure when I get there rather than when I leave?
  The gateless parking structure has a license plate reader at each vehicle entrance and exit. When you pull into the structure, the system provides a 15-minute grace period for the parking session to be officially started and paid via either the in-structure pay stations or the mobile apps. When you start a paid parking session in the gateless parking structure via pay station or app, you pay ahead for the time you plan to park there. However, if you do not start the paid parking session before this 15-minutes expires, you could receive a parking citation for that vehicle. It’s important to start a parking session via the pay station or apps when you arrive so you don’t get a parking citation.
Gateless Parking
- How can I add time to my parking session?
  If you need to add time to your parking session, you can extend your current session. You must use the same app or pay station you used when you first arrived.
  
  Watch these “how-to” videos on how to extend your session.
  
  HONK App: How to add time to your parking session
  
  ParkMobile App: How to add time to your parking session
  
  PaybyPhone App: How to add time to your parking session
- How do I pay for parking in a gateless structure?
  Paying for parking in a gateless structure is the same process as parking in paid parking zones on-street within the downtown. All you need to do is, park, pay, play and then drive away.
  Park at a gateless structure.
  
  Pay aia app or kiosk before leaving the structure.
  
  Play and enjoy downtown.
  
  Drive away and have a great rest of your day.
  Pro tips:
  
  Have your license plate number handy. You’ll need it!
  
  More time can be added to your stay before time expires via the app or pay station.
- How does gateless technology work?
  Gateless technology involves the installation of cameras and software that documents cars’ license plates as they enter and exit parking structures. This data is validated against paid parking sessions, much like the current process for on-street parking, and if someone leaves a structure without paying, citations are mailed to the address related to the license plate as noted in the DMV database.
- What are the benefits of gateless parking structures?
  Gateless technology eliminates delays when cars stop at gates to either grab a parking ticket or pay rates. It also helps avoid mechanical breakdowns of gate arms and streamlines the process from car to downtown. The gateless structure supports paying for parking via mobile app which is a convenient way to pay for parking and add additional time as needed.
- What do parking rates pay for?
  When you pay for parking, the money collected goes into the City’s Parking Fund. The City’s policy is to that parking services and programs only be funded with parking rates and fees that users pay (rather than taxes). This fund is then used to cover the costs of all parking programs, operations and new facilities, such as rate-reduction programs; parking operations, safety, and enforcement services; repairs to parking facilities; and upgrades to parking technology. Additionally, parking funds support other programs including SLO Transit Downtown Access Pass and active transportation infrastructure.
- What is a parking session?
  A parking session is the paid session that you will start as soon as parking. The parking session can be initiated at an in-structure pay station or using one of the supported mobile apps (HONK, ParkMobile, or PaybyPhone).
- What is the timeline for implementing gateless in the other structures?
  The current schedule of construction aims to have all structures gateless by 2024.
- Which structures are gateless?
  Gateless is being rolled out to all downtown structures in phases. First up, is the Chinatown District structure at 842 Palm St. The 919 Palm St. structure and Marsh Street structure will be up next. The new Cultural Arts structure will include gateless technology.
- Why did the City decide to implement gateless technology?
  Efficient public parking services support a thriving downtown community, and gateless technology is part of a comprehensive long-term plan to help make parking downtown even easier. Gateless technology allows the City to introduce new mobile payment options and facilitate the Park Local program that provides one hour of free parking to registered residents of San Luis Obispo County.
- Why do I have to pay first in the gateless structure rather than at the end?
  Paying for parking in a gateless structure is the same process as parking in paid parking zones on-street within the downtown, where drivers park and pay before enjoying the downtown. The technology used for the gateless system does not support a “pay after” approach at this time.
- Why do I have to pay for parking in the gateless parking structure when I get there rather than when I leave?
  The gateless parking structure has a license plate reader at each vehicle entrance and exit. When you pull into the structure, the system provides a 15-minute grace period for the parking session to be officially started and paid via either the in-structure pay stations or the mobile apps. When you start a paid parking session in the gateless parking structure via pay station or app, you pay ahead for the time you plan to park there. However, if you do not start the paid parking session before this 15-minutes expires, you could receive a parking citation for that vehicle. It’s important to start a parking session via the pay station or apps when you arrive so you don’t get a parking citation.
- Why doesn’t my receipt or mobile app confirmation show my free hour of parking?
  
  The Park Local Program is a pilot program providing a specific benefit to SLO County residents only. Currently, neither the mobile apps nor pay stations are able to document the free hour of parking on a receipt. Park Local members’ receipts will only show the time that was paid.
  
  Example: A Park Local member who needs three hours of time downtown should only pay for two hours. The receipt or mobile app confirmation for the stay will only show the two hours that are paid for, but the resident will have an extra 60 minutes of free parking associated with that stay.
General Parking
- How can I add time to my parking session?
  If you need to add time to your parking session, you can extend your current session. You must use the same app or pay station you used when you first arrived.
  
  Watch these “how-to” videos on how to extend your session.
  
  HONK App: How to add time to your parking session
  
  ParkMobile App: How to add time to your parking session
  
  PaybyPhone App: How to add time to your parking session
- How can I find out about traffic and road closures?
  The City will proactively include information about upcoming impacts to traffic including street closures and detours through all City channels including the Construction and Traffic Updates webpage and via City e-blasts, City social media channels, press releases, mailed notifications to adjacent businesses/organizations and residents, as needed.
  
  To get email updates about this project, subscribe to the “Transportation” news topic at www.slocity.org/Subscribe.
- How can I tell the difference between the number 0 and the letter O on my license plate?
  Please see the tips below to help you avoid entering a zero for the letter O and vice versa.
  
  Using the license plate below as an example please note the following:
  - The letter “O” is box-shaped.
  - The number “0” is oval shaped.
  Example below would be entered as SL(oh)789(zero).
- How do I enter a license plate with a blank space or special character at the pay stations?
  Specialty and custom plates often consist of blank spaces or special characters.
  
  When entering your license plate number into the pay station or mobile app, do not enter anything for blank spaces or special characters.
  
  For example, the license plate below would be entered as ISLO
- I live near a school and this impacts the parking in my neighborhood. What can be done about this?
  The Residential Parking District program restricts on-street parking to vehicles that display a permit given to residents by the City. Each district is approved by the City Council. Currently, eleven Residential Parking Districts have been established in the City. See the Residential Parking Districts page for more information.
- What are the hours of the paid parking areas downtown?
  On-street parking throughout downtown is enforced Monday – Saturday 9 AM – 9 PM, and Sundays 1 PM – 9 PM. The parking garages are enforced 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- What do parking rates pay for?
  Revenue gained from citations and parking meters is used to maintain current parking and for additional parking, such as new structures and lots.
- What do parking rates pay for?
  When you pay for parking, the money collected goes into the City’s Parking Fund. The City’s policy is to that parking services and programs only be funded with parking rates and fees that users pay (rather than taxes). This fund is then used to cover the costs of all parking programs, operations and new facilities, such as rate-reduction programs; parking operations, safety, and enforcement services; repairs to parking facilities; and upgrades to parking technology. Additionally, parking funds support other programs including SLO Transit Downtown Access Pass and active transportation infrastructure.
- What is a parking session?
  A parking session is the paid session that you will start as soon as parking. The parking session can be initiated at an in-structure pay station or using one of the supported mobile apps (HONK, ParkMobile, or PaybyPhone).
- What should I do if the pay station/meter I park at is broken?
  Please use another pay station/meter and report the broken pay station/meter location to Parking Services, 805-781-7230.
- What should I do if the pay station/meter I parked at is broken or my credit card is stuck?
  You can either contact the Parking Services office at 805-781-7230 with the Pay Station Number / Meter Number and Street Name or email the information to brokenmeter@slocity.org.
- Where can I park my motorcycle, moped, and bicycle?
  There are motorcycle meters located throughout the downtown area (click here). Long-term motorcycle meters are located in front of 842 Palm Parking Garage and in the parking lot beneath the 871 Marsh Parking Garage. For safety reasons, motorcycles are not permitted in the garages. Bicycle racks are located conveniently throughout the city.
- Where can I park my over-sized vehicle or RV?
  Over-sized vehicles should park in the outlying areas at curb-side. When parked in a metered area, you must feed both meters if you overlap into another space.
- Who do I contact if I have questions?
  Please email parkinginfo@slocity.org with questions. A Parking Services team member will respond to your inquiry shortly.
- Why do I have to pay for parking in the gateless parking structure when I get there rather than when I leave?
  The gateless parking structure has a license plate reader at each vehicle entrance and exit. When you pull into the structure, the system provides a 15-minute grace period for the parking session to be officially started and paid via either the in-structure pay stations or the mobile apps. When you start a paid parking session in the gateless parking structure via pay station or app, you pay ahead for the time you plan to park there. However, if you do not start the paid parking session before this 15-minutes expires, you could receive a parking citation for that vehicle. It’s important to start a parking session via the pay station or apps when you arrive so you don’t get a parking citation.
General Plan Updates
- What is a General Plan?
  A General Plan can be described as the "blueprint" for the City's Future. It represents the community's vision as goals and policies to direct decision-making. California state law requires that each city adopt a general plan addressing seven mandatory components or "elements": Land Use, Circulation, Housing, Conservation, Open Space, Noise and Safety. The City of San Luis Obispo also has a Water and Wastewater Element.
- What is covered in the Circulation Element?
  The Circulation Element includes goals and policies relating to how people, products and visitors move around San Luis Obispo. This includes cars, bicycles, pedestrians, air transportation, as well as public transportation such as buses and shuttles.
- What is covered in the Land Use Element?
  The Land Use element designates the general location and intensity of housing, businesses, industry, open space, education, public buildings and grounds, waste disposal facilities, and other land uses. It helps guide future development and preserve environmental resources.
Historic Preservation
- How can I find out what zone my property is in?
  Use the GIS Parcel Map to find your zoning.
- My property is on the Master or Contributing list of historic resources, what does this mean?
  This means your property has been determined to be a locally significant historic resource because of significant architecture or historical themes. Properties determined to be a historic resource may be eligible for benefits such as the Mills Act. Likewise, building owners of qualified historic properties can follow the more flexible California State Historical Building Code (CHBC). The CHBC’s standards and regulations are intended to facilitate the rehabilitation or change of occupancy so as to preserve their original or restored elements and features, to encourage energy conservation and a cost effective approach to preservation, and to provide for reasonable safety from fire, seismic forces or other hazards for occupants and users of such buildings, structures and properties and to provide reasonable availability and usability by the physically disabled.
  
  Additionally, historic properties are eligible to receive a decorative plaque that can be displayed on their property. More importantly changes to historic properties are guided by the City’s Historic Preservation Guidelines and Historic Preservation Ordinance.
Human Resources
- Are you currently recruiting for Police Officers?
  We recruit only on an as needed basis. Eligibility lists are good for one year. If there is an open recruitment for a given position, it will be posted on the job openings page of our website.
- Where can I find Employee Salary and Benefits Information?
  Salary and Benefits Information is on the Human Resource section of the website. You can find it here: Job Descriptions & Salaries
Inflow and Infiltration
- What is a private sewer lateral?
  A private sewer lateral is the pipe that drains your sinks, bathtubs, toilets and showers from your home or building to the City’s sewer main.
- Who is responsible for repairing and maintaining private sewer laterals?
  Property owners are responsible for the operation, maintenance and repair of their property’s sewer lateral from the home or building and including the point of connection with the City’s sewer main.
- Why is maintaining a private sewer lateral important?
  Proper maintenance of a private sewer lateral is important because these lines can clog with roots and grease and can cause a backup inside your property or a spill from the line. A sewage spill can cause damage to your property that is expensive to fix and can cause public and/or environmental health concerns.
  
  A properly maintained private sewer lateral also helps reduce inflow and infiltration into the City's wastewater collection system.
Neighborhood Traffic Management
- What is that weird (new) 3-headed signal?
  This new device is called a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB), also commonly referred to as a “HAWK” signal. It is a traffic control device used to stop road traffic and allow pedestrians and bicyclists to cross safely. At a PHB, the beacon remains dark until the push button to cross is activated by a pedestrian or bicyclists intending to cross. Upon activation, the beacons begin flashing yellow, then steady yellow, then solid red. During the solid red phase, drivers must remain stopped while users cross from the side street. Prior to returning to dark, the beacons display an alternating flashing red “wig-wag” that allows drivers to stop and proceed when clear, as they would with a stop sign.
Online Reporting
- What if my incident happened on a state freeway?
  If the incident took place on a California freeway, please contact the California Highway Patrol.
- What if this happened in another city or county? Can I file a report using the online reporting system?
  No. If a crime took place outside the jurisdiction of the San Luis Obispo Police Department, please call the law enforcement agency for that city, unincorporated county area, or jurisdiction.
- What should I do if I do not meet the criteria for online reporting?
  If you incident is an emergency, call 911. For non-emergency incidents, call Police Dispatch at (805)781-7312
- What types of reports can be filed online?
  Reports can be filed online for: Thefts (under $950), Vandalism/Graffiti, Annoying Communications, Hit and Run - Parked Vehicle, No Witnesses, and Lost Property.
Parking Citations & Violations
- How can I contest a parking citation?
  To contest a parking citation you can submit your request in writing or by submitting the online review form. The request for parking citation review must be received within 21 calendar days of receiving the parking citation or within 14 calendar days of receiving the delinquent notice mailing. The procedures to contest/appeal a citation are governed by California Vehicle Code(CVC 40215)
  
  CONTEST/APPEAL OPTIONS
  - Online Request: Click here
  - Printable Request: Citation Review Form | You may Fax your form to 805-781-7267 or Mail your form to the Parking Services office located at 1260 Chorro St., Suite #B, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401.
    **You may include any photos and/or other documentation to assist in your contest/appeal
    ***In order to appeal a citation you may file your request via our online portal, in person or by phone.
  Step #1: Upon receiving the completed request for parking citation review form, within the timeline stated above, the parking citation will be placed on "hold" during the review process. Decisions are made by Supervisors and can take up to 3-4 weeks. Customers will receive a notice of their results by mail. If a citation has been dismissed during the appeal process, the file is closed and no monies are due. No further action is required.
  
  Step #2: If a contest/appeal has been Upheld, an Administrative Hearing Letter will be mailed with the decision. This letter must be filled out and submitted to the Parking Services Office within 21 days from the mail/email date on the form. The fine amount must be paid either online, personal check or money order to proceed with a hearing.
  - If paying the fine prior to the hearing will cause a hardship, you may request a Waiver of Penalty Deposi t.
  - If the parking citation is dismissed, the file is closed and no monies are due, no further action is required.
  AB503-Payment Plans are available as set forth in CVC 40220 for those who can provide proof of indigent status.
  - If you requested to have an Administrative Hearing by Mail, please forward any additional statements, pictures, or other documentation you deem appropriate. These and the initial review will be forwarded to the Hearing Officer to review. You will be notified of the decision by mail.
  - If you requested to have an Administrative Hearing In Person (Due to COVID-19 these are being done via Zoom/Skype), you will be mailed a Notice of Hearing with the date, time and location of the hearing within 90 days.
  - If during the Administrative Hearing step, your appeal has been dismissed, the amount of the fine will be refunded within 30 days.
  Step #3: If during the Administrative Hearing step, your contest/appeal has been Upheld, you may continue this process by filing a civil appeal at the San Luis Obispo Superior Court-Civil Division, 1050 Monterey Street, Room 385, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. Your appeal must be filed within 30 days of the date of the Results of Administrative Hearing Letter. The Court will require a filing fee.
- How do I appeal a citation?
  Citation appeals must be submitted in writing within 21 days of receipt of the citation. Learn more here.
- How soon after issuance must I pay a citation?
  A citation must be paid before the Due Date listed on the citation to avoid any delinquent penalties.
- I received a citation. How do I pay for it?
  - Pay online: slo.rmcpay.com. There is a processing fee of $3.
  - Pay by Mail: Make personal checks or money orders out to the City of San Luis Obispo and mail to 1260 Chorro St., Suite #B, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401.(DO NOT MAIL CASH.)
  - Pay in Person: Hours are Monday: 10 AM-3 PM, Tuesday: 9 AM-4 PM, Wednesday: 9 AM-4 PM, Thursday 9 AM-4 PM, Friday: 10 AM-3 PM. We do have a Drop Box located to the right of our front doors that you can drop payment into. (NO CASH/COIN ACCEPTED).
- What happens if I do not pay a parking citation on time?
  After 21 days, a $30 penalty may be imposed. If citation remains unpaid after the penalty is added, the DMV will be notified and a hold will be placed on your registration until the citation amount is paid.
- What is the 72HR Ordinance for Abandoned Vehicles?
  California vehicle code makes it illegal for a vehicle to be parked in the same spot for more than 72 hours, on any public street in California . After 72 hours, the vehicle may be cited and/or towed. To request to have an abandoned vehicle, please write down a description of the vehicle, the license plate number and the address where it is parked. Call the SLOPD non-emergency line at 805-781-7317 with the information. The Police Department field service technicians will begin the process of tagging and removing the vehicle.
Parking Services
- How can I contest a parking citation?
  To contest a parking citation you can submit your request in writing or by submitting the online review form. The request for parking citation review must be received within 21 calendar days of receiving the parking citation or within 14 calendar days of receiving the delinquent notice mailing. The procedures to contest/appeal a citation are governed by California Vehicle Code(CVC 40215)
  
  CONTEST/APPEAL OPTIONS
  - Online Request: Click here
  - Printable Request: Citation Review Form | You may Fax your form to 805-781-7267 or Mail your form to the Parking Services office located at 1260 Chorro St., Suite #B, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401.
    **You may include any photos and/or other documentation to assist in your contest/appeal
    ***In order to appeal a citation you may file your request via our online portal, in person or by phone.
  Step #1: Upon receiving the completed request for parking citation review form, within the timeline stated above, the parking citation will be placed on "hold" during the review process. Decisions are made by Supervisors and can take up to 3-4 weeks. Customers will receive a notice of their results by mail. If a citation has been dismissed during the appeal process, the file is closed and no monies are due. No further action is required.
  
  Step #2: If a contest/appeal has been Upheld, an Administrative Hearing Letter will be mailed with the decision. This letter must be filled out and submitted to the Parking Services Office within 21 days from the mail/email date on the form. The fine amount must be paid either online, personal check or money order to proceed with a hearing.
  - If paying the fine prior to the hearing will cause a hardship, you may request a Waiver of Penalty Deposi t.
  - If the parking citation is dismissed, the file is closed and no monies are due, no further action is required.
  AB503-Payment Plans are available as set forth in CVC 40220 for those who can provide proof of indigent status.
  - If you requested to have an Administrative Hearing by Mail, please forward any additional statements, pictures, or other documentation you deem appropriate. These and the initial review will be forwarded to the Hearing Officer to review. You will be notified of the decision by mail.
  - If you requested to have an Administrative Hearing In Person (Due to COVID-19 these are being done via Zoom/Skype), you will be mailed a Notice of Hearing with the date, time and location of the hearing within 90 days.
  - If during the Administrative Hearing step, your appeal has been dismissed, the amount of the fine will be refunded within 30 days.
  Step #3: If during the Administrative Hearing step, your contest/appeal has been Upheld, you may continue this process by filing a civil appeal at the San Luis Obispo Superior Court-Civil Division, 1050 Monterey Street, Room 385, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. Your appeal must be filed within 30 days of the date of the Results of Administrative Hearing Letter. The Court will require a filing fee.
- How can I find out about traffic and road closures?
  The City will proactively include information about upcoming impacts to traffic including street closures and detours through all City channels including the Construction and Traffic Updates webpage and via City e-blasts, City social media channels, press releases, mailed notifications to adjacent businesses/organizations and residents, as needed.
  
  To get email updates about this project, subscribe to the “Transportation” news topic at www.slocity.org/Subscribe.
- How do I appeal a citation?
  Citation appeals must be submitted in writing within 21 days of receipt of the citation. Learn more here.
- How do I pay for parking downtown?
  Paying for parking in downtown San Luis Obispo is about to get easier. To eliminate the hassle of having to download yet another parking payment app, we are partnering with three apps that are already used by many local community members and downtown visitors. However, if you plan to stay downtown for more than 5 hours, your best option is to park in one of our three parking structures. Paying for parking in the parking structures can be done at the various pay stations provided at each structure entrance and exit.
  
  Parking Apps:
- How do I pay for parking in a gateless structure?
  Pay before you leave for downtown: After you park your car, similar to when you park on downtown streets, you can either pay for parking at a pay station or via mobile app before you leave the structure. You select the amount of time of your trip, complete the payment process, and enjoy your trip. If you need more time, you can do so remotely via app on of Parking Services mobile app providers.
  
  License plate-based: You’ll enter your license plate as part of the payment process, so have that handy.
  Flexible timing: If you need more time than previously paid for, you can add more time to your trip using the app or returning to a pay station.
  
  Quick exit: Once your trip has ended, all you have to do is drive away.
- How does gateless technology affect security at downtown structures?
  Security should be enhanced by gateless technology because license plates are documented as part of the process. This ensures that cars are accurately noted upon entry and exit, which should promote safe and responsible use of the structures.
- How does gateless technology work?
  Gateless technology involves the installation of cameras and software that documents cars’ license plates as they enter and exit parking structures. This data is validated against paid parking sessions, much like the current process for on-street parking, and if someone leaves a structure without paying, citations are mailed to the address related to the license plate as noted in the DMV database.
- How long will it take to build? What is the timeline?
  It’s going to take about two years to build the parking structure. Construction is planned in two separate phases.
  
  Phase I
  - Spring 2023 (May): Demolition of vacant buildings
  - Fall 2023 (September): Demolition of the current surface parking lot
  Phase II
  - Fall 2023: Construction begins
  - Late 205: Construction complete
- How many parking spaces will there be in the new parking structure and what other features will it have for the general public?
  When completed, the Cultural Arts Parking Structure will stand at five stories and provide the community with 397 new parking spaces, 41 of which will have electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. The parking structure will be wired to expand EV charging stations in other parking spaces as needed in the future.
  
  There will also be 32 bike racks for easy bike parking and solar panels on the roof to reduce energy costs to operate the facility. Community members can also rent rooftop event space by contacting the City's Parks and Recreation Department.
  
  The structure will be accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It will serve residents who live downtown and visitors.
- How much will it cost to park in Downtown SLO parking structures?
  The City is rolling out a multi-year rate adjustment to address funding gaps created during COVID-19 and prepare for necessary maintenance, modernization and mobility initiatives.
  
  Starting July 2023:
  - Rates for two-hour street parking in the main downtown core will go up from $2 to $4 per hour, then $5 per in 2025.
  - Rates for 10-hour street parking in the outer downtown area will go up from $1.50 to $3 per hour.
  - Rates for structure parking will be $3 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of $12.
  County residents who register for the Park Local pilot program permits can still get the first hour free in the City’s parking structures. This program will first be offered at the 842 Palm Street structure, and will roll out to other downtown structures as gateless technologies are installed over the next year. More information will be available at www.slocity.org/Parking.
- How soon after issuance must I pay a citation?
  A citation must be paid before the Due Date listed on the citation to avoid any delinquent penalties.
- I live near a school and this impacts the parking in my neighborhood. What can be done about this?
  The Residential Parking District program restricts on-street parking to vehicles that display a permit given to residents by the City. Each district is approved by the City Council. Currently, eleven Residential Parking Districts have been established in the City. See the Residential Parking Districts page for more information.
- I received a citation. How do I pay for it?
  - Pay online: slo.rmcpay.com. There is a processing fee of $3.
  - Pay by Mail: Make personal checks or money orders out to the City of San Luis Obispo and mail to 1260 Chorro St., Suite #B, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401.(DO NOT MAIL CASH.)
  - Pay in Person: Hours are Monday: 10 AM-3 PM, Tuesday: 9 AM-4 PM, Wednesday: 9 AM-4 PM, Thursday 9 AM-4 PM, Friday: 10 AM-3 PM. We do have a Drop Box located to the right of our front doors that you can drop payment into. (NO CASH/COIN ACCEPTED).
- What are all the parking options in downtown?
  Curbside and metered parking is available throughout downtown even while the City builds the new Cultural Arts District Parking Structure. Learn more about the City’s parking services like current rates, accessible parking, mobile apps and payment stations, and more. The City also has three safe and convenient existing parking structures located at the following addresses:
  - 842 Palm St.
  - 919 Palm St.
  - 871 Marsh St.
- What are the benefits of gateless parking structures?
  Gateless technology eliminates delays when cars stop at gates to either grab a parking ticket or pay rates. It also helps avoid mechanical breakdowns of gate arms and streamlines the process from car to downtown.
- What are the hours of the paid parking areas downtown?
  On-street parking throughout downtown is enforced Monday – Saturday 9 AM – 9 PM, and Sundays 1 PM – 9 PM. The parking garages are enforced 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- What do parking rates pay for?
  Revenue gained from citations and parking meters is used to maintain current parking and for additional parking, such as new structures and lots.
- What happens if I do not pay a parking citation on time?
  After 21 days, a $30 penalty may be imposed. If citation remains unpaid after the penalty is added, the DMV will be notified and a hold will be placed on your registration until the citation amount is paid.
- What is a Residential Parking Permit District?
  Check out our Information Guide.
- What is the 72HR Ordinance for Abandoned Vehicles?
  California vehicle code makes it illegal for a vehicle to be parked in the same spot for more than 72 hours, on any public street in California . After 72 hours, the vehicle may be cited and/or towed. To request to have an abandoned vehicle, please write down a description of the vehicle, the license plate number and the address where it is parked. Call the SLOPD non-emergency line at 805-781-7317 with the information. The Police Department field service technicians will begin the process of tagging and removing the vehicle.
- What is the background on the Cultural Arts District Parking Structure? How is it related to SLO Rep Theater and the Arts community in downtown San Luis Obispo?
  The City of SLO currently owns the surface parking lot (Parking Lot 14) in the west end of downtown, bordered by Monterey, Nipomo and Palm streets. The City is building a new multilevel structure on this lot to meet parking demand and steward this area’s future as the “cultural corridor” of downtown, as noted in the City’s Downtown Concept Plan.
  
  The new structure will provide critical parking services for the future patrons of SLO Repertory Theater, SLOMA, the History Center, SLO Children’s Museum, and Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa/Mission Plaza. SLO Repertory Theater has plans underway to build a new performing arts center (construction will start after the parking structure is complete, target opening is 2026-27), and SLOMA will resume its capital campaign in the future for a new building (target opening unknown).
  
  For more information about the project, visit www.slocity.org/CulturalArtsParking.
- What is the cost of the Cultural Arts District Parking Structure project? How is the parking structure being financed?
  The City is investing $52 million in this project to support downtown businesses and residents.
  
  During the pandemic, the City did not charge for parking downtown to help support local businesses, which resulted in a $4 million gap in funding. Additionally, in the wake of the pandemic, construction costs increased and interest rates went up. To help offset these losses and costs, in 2022 the City Council voted to adjust parking rates incrementally over time.
  
  To cover up-front costs, the structure will be debt-financed, meaning that there will be a long-term loan in place to pay for construction, and the City will repay that loan with interest over time using parking revenue. The City’s Parking Services department is an independent financial unit, so no tax revenues or other City funds can be used for parking projects or initiatives, including the financing of this new structure.
- What is the timeline for implementing gateless in the other structures?
  The current schedule of construction aims to have all structures gateless by 2024.
- What should I do if the pay station/meter I park at is broken?
  Please use another pay station/meter and report the broken pay station/meter location to Parking Services, 805-781-7230.
- What should I do if the pay station/meter I parked at is broken or my credit card is stuck?
  You can either contact the Parking Services office at 805-781-7230 with the Pay Station Number / Meter Number and Street Name or email the information to brokenmeter@slocity.org.
- What structures are gateless?
  Gateless is being rolled out to all downtown structures in phases. First up, is the Chinatown District structure at 842 Palm St. The 919 Palm St. structure and Marsh Street structure will be up next. The new Cultural Arts structure will include gateless technology.
- What types of parking permits are available for purchase?
  Click here to visit our parking permit page.
- When is the next parking structure opening?
  The Cultural Arts District Parking Structure project will be completed in two phases. Phase 1 in Spring 2023: Parking lot preparation and demolition of vacant buildings. Phase 2 in Fall 2023: Parking structure vertical construction; completion and parking structure opening is expected in late 2025. For up-to-date information about the project click here.
- Where can I park my motorcycle, moped, and bicycle?
  There are motorcycle meters located throughout the downtown area (click here). Long-term motorcycle meters are located in front of 842 Palm Parking Garage and in the parking lot beneath the 871 Marsh Parking Garage. For safety reasons, motorcycles are not permitted in the garages. Bicycle racks are located conveniently throughout the city.
- Where can I park my over-sized vehicle or RV?
  Over-sized vehicles should park in the outlying areas at curb-side. When parked in a metered area, you must feed both meters if you overlap into another space.
- Where will the Cultural Arts District Parking Structure be located?
  The new parking structure will be built downtown where Parking Lot 14 is currently located at the corner of Palm, Nipomo and Monterey streets.
- Who do I contact if I have questions?
  Please email parkinginfo@slocity.org with questions. A Parking Services team member will respond to your inquiry shortly.
- Why is the City building a new parking structure?
  San Luis Obispo’s downtown has three existing parking structures, and it's been nearly 20 years since the last structure was built. Since 2003, the City has collaborated with the community to evaluate and plan for a fourth structure, and a 2022 study illustrated that this structure is needed to meet both current and projected parking demand in support of a dynamic, accessible and sustainable downtown.
Parks
- Do I need a permit to use my portable barbecue in a park?
  Yes. Portable barbecues are not allowed in parks unless prior approval is granted. A permit and a $31 fee is required to bring a portable barbecue into any City Park. Please contact the Facility Reservation desk at 781-7222.
- How can I report graffiti, trash or other problems in a City Park?
  Thank you for keeping an eye out on our parks! We are working to create a new online portal to report such issues, but aren't quite finished yet. In the meantime, please report any issues to the Parks Maintenance Supervisor at 781-7220.
- How do I contact animal control?
  The County of San Luis Obispo is in charge of Animal Regulations. You can contact them at 781-4400.
- How do I contact the Friends of the Adobes?
  For more information about Friends of the Adobes call 544-3867 or 541-2003.
- How do I get permission to use a City park?
  The Parks and Recreation Department processes special use permits related to the use of City parks and facilities. This includes:
  - Special Event Permits
  - Tournament Permit Application
  - Street Banner Permits
  - Film Permits
  - Long Term Reservations
  For more information on special permits, contact Devin Hyfield at (805) 781-7295
- How do I reserve the Jack House Gardens?
  Information about renting the Jack House Gardens can be found on our Historic Jack House and Gardens page and more details can be found on our Wedding and Event FAQs page.
- How do I volunteer to do work in a City Park?
  Oh, thank you! Please call our Parks Maintenance Supervisor at 781-7220 and let him know you're interested.
- Is alcohol allowed in City parks?
  Alcohol is not allowed at any City facility unless written permission is granted by the Parks and Recreation Director or designee via permit. Usage of alcohol is only allowed within the areas designated on the permit.
- Is there a lost and found for City Parks?
  Sorry, there is no official Lost and Found, but you should contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 781-7300 or 781-7222 to see if anyone has turned in anything. You may also want to try the San Luis Obispo City Police Department at 1042 Walnut or call them at 781-7312.
- Is there a map showing all City parks and facilities?
  Yes! Please visit our Parks and Recreation Facilities map as well as our interactive Open Space and Trails map. Other maps of interest can be found on our City Maps page.
- What are the hours for City park use?
  City parks are open from 8 am to 10 pm.
- Where can I see a listing of all available indoor and outdoor City facilities?
  A complete list of all our City facilities available for reservation can be found online or call us at 805-781-7222.
Parks Maintenance
- How can I find out what construction work will be occurring in City Parks?
  We are working to create an online listing of current and upcoming City construction projects. In the meantime, please contact the Parks Maintenance Supervisor at 781-7220 for more information.
- How can I report graffiti, trash or other problems in a City Park?
  Thank you for keeping an eye out on our parks! We are working to create a new online portal to report such issues, but aren't quite finished yet. In the meantime, please report any issues to the Parks Maintenance Supervisor at 781-7220.
- How do I contact animal control?
  The County of San Luis Obispo is in charge of Animal Regulations. You can contact them at 781-4400.
- How do I contact the Friends of the Adobes?
  For more information about Friends of the Adobes call 544-3867 or 541-2003.
- How do I contact the Joint Use Committee?
  The Joint Use Committee was disbanded. Please contact the Facilities Supervisor or the Parks and Recreation Department at 781-7300 if you have questions.
- How do I get permission to use a City park?
  The Parks and Recreation Department processes special use permits related to the use of City parks and facilities. This includes:
  - Special Event Permits
  - Tournament Permit Application
  - Street Banner Permits
  - Film Permits
  - Long Term Reservations
  For more information on special permits, contact Devin Hyfield at (805) 781-7295
- How do I volunteer to do work in a City Park?
  Oh, thank you! Please call our Parks Maintenance Supervisor at 781-7220 and let him know you're interested.
- Is alcohol allowed in City parks?
  Alcohol is not allowed at any City facility unless written permission is granted by the Parks and Recreation Director or designee via permit. Usage of alcohol is only allowed within the areas designated on the permit.
- Is there a lost and found for City Parks?
  Sorry, there is no official Lost and Found, but you should contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 781-7300 or 781-7222 to see if anyone has turned in anything. You may also want to try the San Luis Obispo City Police Department at 1042 Walnut or call them at 781-7312.
- Is there a map showing all City parks and facilities?
  Yes! Please visit our Parks and Recreation Facilities map as well as our interactive Open Space and Trails map. Other maps of interest can be found on our City Maps page.
- What are the hours for City park use?
  City parks are open from 8 am to 10 pm.
Pavement Maintenance
- How do I find out what the repaving schedule is for city streets?
  City Street rehabilitation is spread out over multiple years by breaking the City up into zones. Check out our Pavement Plan map.
- How do I report a pot hole?
  Contact Public works at 781-7220 or submit an Ask SLO Service Request.
Paying for Parking
- How do I pay for parking downtown?
  Paying for parking in downtown San Luis Obispo is about to get easier. To eliminate the hassle of having to download yet another parking payment app, we are partnering with three apps that are already used by many local community members and downtown visitors. However, if you plan to stay downtown for more than 5 hours, your best option is to park in one of our three parking structures. Paying for parking in the parking structures can be done at the various pay stations provided at each structure entrance and exit.
  
  Parking Apps:
- How much will it cost to park in Downtown SLO parking structures?
  The City is rolling out a multi-year rate adjustment to address funding gaps created during COVID-19 and prepare for necessary maintenance, modernization and mobility initiatives.
  
  Starting July 2023:
  - Rates for two-hour street parking in the main downtown core will go up from $2 to $4 per hour, then $5 per in 2025.
  - Rates for 10-hour street parking in the outer downtown area will go up from $1.50 to $3 per hour.
  - Rates for structure parking will be $3 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of $12.
  County residents who register for the Park Local pilot program permits can still get the first hour free in the City’s parking structures. This program will first be offered at the 842 Palm Street structure, and will roll out to other downtown structures as gateless technologies are installed over the next year. More information will be available at www.slocity.org/Parking.
Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon
- What do I do when the red lights are flashing on a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon?
  The red lights will flash after displaying a solid red and before returning to a dark signal. When flashing red, drivers should stop and proceed when clear, as they would with a stop sign.
- What is that weird (new) 3-headed signal?
  This new device is called a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB), also commonly referred to as a “HAWK” signal. It is a traffic control device used to stop road traffic and allow pedestrians and bicyclists to cross safely. At a PHB, the beacon remains dark until the push button to cross is activated by a pedestrian or bicyclists intending to cross. Upon activation, the beacons begin flashing yellow, then steady yellow, then solid red. During the solid red phase, drivers must remain stopped while users cross from the side street. Prior to returning to dark, the beacons display an alternating flashing red “wig-wag” that allows drivers to stop and proceed when clear, as they would with a stop sign.
- Where are Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons going to be installed in SLO?
  The City has two locations currently planned. Foothill at Ferrini will begin construction in late summer of 2019. Another PHB on Broad Street at Woodbridge is currently in design and planned for construction 2020.
- Where Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons are installed at intersections, what do drivers do at the side street?
  Drivers approaching the intersection from the side street should treat the stop sign as it would normally. Stop, and proceed when it is safe to do so. When the PHB is activated, drivers on the side street may see a luminated sign restricting turning movements. Drivers must obey the luminated sign until it turns dark. In either case, drivers should look for crossing bicyclists or pedestrians and yield to oncoming vehicles.
- Why is the signal dark when I drive by? Am I supposed to stop like at a standard traffic signal?
  At a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon, the beacon remains dark until the push button to cross is activated by a pedestrian or bicyclists intending to cross. Upon activation, the beacons begin flashing yellow, then steady yellow, then solid red. During the solid red phase, drivers must remain stopped while users cross from the side street. Prior to returning to dark, the beacons display an alternating flashing red “wig-wag” that allows drivers to stop and proceed when clear, as they would with a stop sign.
- Why not install a normal traffic signal?
  Installation of a traffic signal requires that an intersection meet warrants justifying the need for a signal. Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons are often used in locations where conditions do not warrant installation of a conventional traffic signal. This device provides the user experience and comfort of a traditional signalized crossing for pedestrians and bicyclists crossing from the side street, with less disruption to vehicle traffic flows on the major street.

Permit Process

Do we have pre-planned options for quicker and cheaper ADUs?
ADU production is approaching 200/yr. (in 2023) up from just a handful five years ago. Each lot and area are different, and it is very difficult to prepare pre-planned sets that work on every parcel given design, geologic and other conditions. Our fees have been scaled to promote ADU’s and there are $5k rebates for SLO all electric ADU’s through 3CE program. Prefab ADU’s maybe an efficient strategy to reduce overall costs.
How can I comment on a project?
Review hearing agendas on the CDD website and contact the Project Planner via email or phone if you have questions. Submit comments to the Planner or attend public hearings.
How can I find out what zone my property is in?
Use the GIS Parcel Map to find your zoning.
How do I appeal a decision?
Depending on the type of approval you will appeal, the appeal may have to go to hearing. You will have to turn in an appeals form and pay a fee. Learn more here.
How do I apply for a permit?
See Application Review Procedures page.
How do I request an exception?
Once you determine what exception is allowed for your project, according to the Zoning Regulations submit a planning application, the application checklist for your type of exception, and pay the associated fees.
How do I reserve the Jack House Gardens?
Information about renting the Jack House Gardens can be found on our Historic Jack House and Gardens page and more details can be found on our Wedding and Event FAQs page.

How long will it take for my project to be approved?

How long will it take to obtain a building permit?

Type of Plan Check	Project Examples	Initial Plan Check (City’s Goal Time)	Rechecks (City’s Goal Time)
Minor Projects	Non-structural tenant improvements, residential remodels and additions, single-family homes	4 weeks	2 weeks
Moderate Projects	Structural tenant improvements, commercial additions up to 5,000 SF, changes of occupancy	6 weeks	3 weeks
Major Plan Check	New commercial buildings	8 weeks	4 weeks

Type of Plan Check	Project Examples	Initial Plan Check (City’s Goal Time)	Rechecks (City’s Goal Time)
Minor Projects	Non-structural tenant improvements, residential remodels and additions, single-family homes	4 weeks	2 weeks
Moderate Projects	Structural tenant improvements, commercial additions up to 5,000 SF, changes of occupancy	6 weeks	3 weeks
Major Plan Check	New commercial buildings	8 weeks	4 weeks

Type of Plan Check	Project Examples	Initial Plan Check (City’s Goal Time)	Rechecks (City’s Goal Time)
Minor Projects	Non-structural tenant improvements, residential remodels and additions, single-family homes	4 weeks	2 weeks
Moderate Projects	Structural tenant improvements, commercial additions up to 5,000 SF, changes of occupancy	6 weeks	3 weeks
Major Plan Check	New commercial buildings	8 weeks	4 weeks

How much will my application cost?
The cost of an application will vary depending on the type of permit or approval needed and the scope of review a project will require. Fees for projects can be found at the following link. This is separate from the fees associated with building permit inspections and plan review. Building review and inspection fees are related to the square footage and type of project. For more information please call the Building and Safety Division at 805-781-7180.

Planning Services Fee Schedule

Building: New Construction Fee Schedule - INSPECTION FEES

Building: New Construction Fee Schedule - PLAN CHECK FEES
I want to build an accessory building on my property? What is the process? What can I build?
This depends to the scope of the project and how existing buildings and lots are configured. Check your zoning, look at the Zoning Regulations, and then contact the Planning Department if you still have questions.
My property is on the Master or Contributing list of historic resources, what does this mean?
This means your property has been determined to be a locally significant historic resource because of significant architecture or historical themes. Properties determined to be a historic resource may be eligible for benefits such as the Mills Act. Likewise, building owners of qualified historic properties can follow the more flexible California State Historical Building Code (CHBC). The CHBC’s standards and regulations are intended to facilitate the rehabilitation or change of occupancy so as to preserve their original or restored elements and features, to encourage energy conservation and a cost effective approach to preservation, and to provide for reasonable safety from fire, seismic forces or other hazards for occupants and users of such buildings, structures and properties and to provide reasonable availability and usability by the physically disabled.

Additionally, historic properties are eligible to receive a decorative plaque that can be displayed on their property. More importantly changes to historic properties are guided by the City’s Historic Preservation Guidelines and Historic Preservation Ordinance.
Should I do Pre-Application review?
Although Pre-Application is not required, it may highlight any fatal flaws in your project before submitting a more costly application. Projects possessing one or more of the following characteristics should do Pre-Application review:
- Residential Projects > 20 Dwelling Units
- Mixed-Use Projects
- Commercial Projects > 20,000 Sq. Ft. New Development
- Projects Located in Annexation or Expansion areas
- Projects > Three Stories
- Hillside Development on Slopes > 20%
- Large Tract Maps > 25 lots
- Projects Requiring an EIR
- General Plan or Specific Plan Amendments
- Rezones
- Areas not served by Utilities
What does Architectural Review evaluate?
Architectural review evaluates the suitability and appropriateness of individual project design and to help achieve attractive and environmentally sensitive development. Review the City’s Design Guidelines to learn more click here.
What is a Use Permit?
Use permits allow flexibility in providing for, regulating, or preventing various uses, so they will be compatible with existing or desired conditions in their neighborhoods. Conditions of approval can be applied to projects to help reduce or avoid their negative impacts.
What materials do I need to submit for an exception?
Once you determine which exception you will need, submit a planning application along with the materials listed on the application checklist appropriate for the type of permit needed for your project. Bring the planning application, the checklist, and the requested materials to the counter when you submit your application. If an application is missing an item required by the checklist, your application will not be accepted.
What type of approval will I need for my business?
The first step would be to identify the zoning for the location of your project. With this information you can reference Table 9 of the Zoning Regulations which indicates the land uses allowed by zone. This denotes what type of permit will be required to allow that use in each zoning district if allowed at all.

Public Works
- How can I find out what construction is planned?
  We are working to create an online list of construction projects in the near future. In the meantime, please call us at 781-7210 for more information.
- Request Public Works Inspection
  Please call the Public Works Inspection Hotline at (805) 781-7554.
- What is that weird (new) 3-headed signal?
  This new device is called a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB), also commonly referred to as a “HAWK” signal. It is a traffic control device used to stop road traffic and allow pedestrians and bicyclists to cross safely. At a PHB, the beacon remains dark until the push button to cross is activated by a pedestrian or bicyclists intending to cross. Upon activation, the beacons begin flashing yellow, then steady yellow, then solid red. During the solid red phase, drivers must remain stopped while users cross from the side street. Prior to returning to dark, the beacons display an alternating flashing red “wig-wag” that allows drivers to stop and proceed when clear, as they would with a stop sign.
Railroad Safety Trail
- Has the City considered building another bridge to help the community get from one side of town to the other?
  The City’s Active Transportation Plan does identify the need for a second bridge to be constructed about mid-point of the Rail Road Safety Trail. There is a potential pedestrian/biking bridge planned for the future. We want to help the community have easier access again to Sinsheimer park area.
- Is it safe to cross the train tracks and cut through the Railroad Safety Trail?
  Walking over the tracks through the fence is unsafe and is due to the hazardous nature of crossing railroad tracks at grade. Union Pacific Railroad's policy prohibits trespassing on the rail road tracks.
- What is the Railroad Safety Trail?
  The City's Railroad Safety Trail links Cal Poly to the downtown area as well as destinations in between. More people are choosing to walk or bike as their preferred mode of transportation in San Luis Obispo and the Railroad Safety Trail gives them an easy and safer route through town.
  
  The trail expansion has been a top priority for the city, as it aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide more access to bicyclists and pedestrians. This project also helps further major city goals related to climate action, sustainable transportation, and equity.
- Who do I contact if I have questions about the Railroad Safety Trail?
  For questions about the Railroad Safety Trail, please contact the City through the Ask SLO app or on our website.
- Why is the City installing a fence on the Railroad Safety Trail?
  The fencing is a requirement of the easement agreement the City has with Union Pacific Railroad as the City uses railroad land for the trail. The new fence serves as a safer barrier between trail users and the rail road tracks and prevents hazardous crossings.
Recycled Water
- How is water recycled?
  The City of San Luis Obispo Water Reclamation Facility produces a disinfected tertiary recycled water by removing the waste from wastewater that residents discharge to the sewer. This recycled water is suitable for irrigation and many other uses. The Water Reclamation Facility uses the biological and mechanical processes described below to produce this high quality recycled water.
  - Primary treatment uses bar screens and settling basins to remove materials that settle or float.
  - Secondary treatment uses bacteria and other microorganisms to remove carbonaceous wastes and to convert ammonia to nitrates. The Water Reclamation Facility uses trickling filters and activated sludge basins to raise these microorganisms and then uses clarifiers following each of these processes to remove the microorganisms from the water. Following secondary treatment 95-98 percent of the organic material and solids have been removed.
  - Tertiary treatment cools, filters, and disinfects the water before it is provided for reuse and dechlorinates the water that is discharged to the creek.
  For more information please visit the Water Resource Recovery Facility Page
- Is recycled water safe?
  The use of recycled water is regulated by the Water Resources Control Board, the same agency that regulates drinking water. The recycled water produced by the City of San Luis Obispo is suitable for irrigation of playgrounds and all food crops as well as many other uses. It is not approved for drinking, food preparation, or swimming. However, the incidental contact or consumption of this recycled water which might be anticipated with the approved uses is not harmful.
- Where will recycled water be used?
  A separate distribution system was constructed to deliver recycled water. It will be distributed to customers who have a large demand for water. Including, parks, schools, athletic fields, highway landscaping, and landscaping in commercial and multifamily residential areas.
Roundabout
- I think traffic will be more congested or too slow through a roundabout compared to a signal—is this true?
  Contrary to many peoples' perceptions, roundabouts actually move traffic through an intersection more quickly, and with less congestion on approaching roads. Roundabouts promote a continuous flow of traffic. Unlike intersections with traffic signals, drivers don’t have to wait for a green light at a roundabout to get through the intersection. Traffic is not required to stop – only yield – so the intersection can handle more traffic in the same amount of time.
- Roundabouts: Who has the right of way when I approach/enter the intersection?
  Vehicles in the circular roadway of the roundabout have the right of way. Drivers approaching the roundabout must yield to drivers already in the roundabout.
- What about those little roundabouts with stop signs on Chorro (i.e. what is the difference between a roundabout and a neighborhood traffic circle?)
  Roundabouts are circular intersections with specific design and traffic control features. These features include yield control of all entering traffic, channelized approaches, and appropriate geometric curvature to ensure that travel speeds on the circulatory roadway are less than 30 mph. Drivers approaching a roundabout must yield to vehicles already in the roundabout circling counterclockwise.
  
  Neighborhood traffic circles are typically built at the intersections of local streets for reasons of traffic calming. The intersection approaches may be uncontrolled or stop-controlled. They do not typically include raised channelization to guide the approaching driver onto the circulatory roadway. The right-of-way assignment at neighborhood traffic circles is the same as if there were no traffic circle at all. If a stop sign is present, stop. If a yield sign is present, yield. If neither a stop or yield sign is present on an approach, slow and continue counterclockwise through the intersection around the circle.
- Where will roundabouts be installed in SLO?
  Locations of existing roundabouts:
  • Prado and Serra Meadows
  • Tank Farm and Righetti
  
  Locations for planned roundabouts:
  • Orcutt and Ranch House Road
  • Tiburon and Ranch House Road
  • Tiburon and Righetti Ranch Road
  • Froom Ranch and Dalidio
  • Tank Farm and Orcutt
  • California and Taft
- Why is the city installing roundabouts—aren’t they are too confusing?
  Roundabouts when feasibly are the City’s preferred intersection control within the City. A primary reason being the safety benefits of a roundabout. Roundabouts reduce injury crashes by 51 percent. Additionally, roundabout can hand more vehicles through the intersection than a traffic signal, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Sewer Laterals
- Do I need a City permit to do lateral repair work on my property?
  Yes, you do need a permit to perform lateral work on private property. A plumbing permit for lateral repairs/replacement is issued over-the-counter to licensed plumbers at the City of San Luis Obispo’s Community Development Department's public counter at 919 Palm Street. To see current business hours for the public counter click here.
- How do I know if my lateral needs repair or replacement?
  Some signs that a lateral may need repair or replacement include frequently clogged drains and an odor of sewage.
  
  To accurately assess the condition of your sewer lateral, a Closed-Circuit Television Video (CCTV) inspection is needed.
  
  Possible deficiencies that may be detected include displaced joints, open joints, root intrusion, substantial deterioration of the line, cracks, leaks, sags, inflow and /or infiltration of extraneous water, fats, oils and grease, or sediment deposits.
- How often should my lateral be cleaned?
  To avoid costly repairs as well as health, safety, and environmental hazards, laterals should be cleaned regularly. How often you clean your lateral depends on the age of your house, the growth of tree and brush roots and the types of items that go down the drain. A good rule of thumb is to have a plumber check your lateral every two to five years. Check more often if you experience a sewage-like odor or frequently clogged drains.
- What causes sewer laterals to overflow?
  Sewer laterals can be clogged and overflow for a variety of reasons:
  
  o Tree and/or brush roots entering the sewer line
  
  o Disposal of items into sink and/or toilet that clog the drain:
  
  o Feminine hygiene items, including tampons and pads
  
  o Baby wipes and diapers
  
  o Paper towels
  
  o Hair
  
  o Dental floss
  
  o Disposable towels
  
  o Foods not meant for the garbage disposal such as chicken bones, corn cobs and egg shells
  
  o Cooking grease
  
  o Children’s toys
  
  All food scraps and non-dissolvable items should be thrown in a trash or compost bin instead of down the drain. Kitchen cooking grease should never be thrown down the drain. Instead, cooking grease should be kept in a metal or glass jar and then thrown in the garbage.
- What is a cleanout and where is it located?
  A cleanout is an entry point into the sewer service lateral that is used to clear the line of any obstructions. Generally, a cleanout can be located either inside or outside of a house/building. Cleanouts are sometimes inadvertently buried under landscaping, walkways or driveways. When this happens the cleanout will need to be re-exposed and made accessible. A licensed Plumber can determine where your sewer lateral’s cleanout is and the condition of your lateral as well as perform the necessary repair work. The best way to access the condition of a lateral is by Closed Circuit Television Video (CCTV) examination.
- What is a private sewer lateral?
  The private sewer lateral is the pipe that connects a business or home’s plumbing system to the City’s wastewater collection main pipeline which is located in the street or an easement.
- What is Condition?
  Condition is the structural integrity of the lateral upon inspection. The lateral is given a rating based on the “condition” of the pipe and what defects are observed during the inspection.
  
  Good - condition is free of defects and shows no sign of deterioration.
  
  Fair condition is a lateral with a few minor defects and can be maintained easily without harm to the pipe.
  
  Poor - condition is a lateral with some major defects impairing the function of the lateral and pipe material shows signs of failure.
  Failure - is a lateral with severe problems such as heavy roots, missing pipe, soil visible through the pipe material (ex. – Cast Iron with rust holes through the sidewall – Orangeburg pipe present). Lateral is beyond its useful life and can no longer be safely maintained.
- What is Install Date?
  Install date is the approximate date the lateral was originally installed or replaced. It may differ from the date the house was built (age of the house).
- What is material type?
  Material type is the type of material your lateral piping is made of. The common pipe types are High Density Polyethylene, Cast Iron, Vitrified Clay, Orangeburg and PolyVinyl Chloride. ABS Pipe is included under PolyVinyl Chloride. For more information of pipe type and characteristics click here.
- What is Rehab?
  This indicates the level of repair to a lateral performed that we have a record of. Lower indicates that the lower lateral has been replaced. This is generally from the back of the sidewalk to the city main. Upper indicates the lateral was replaced from the house to the back of the sidewalk. Point Repair is just a small repair somewhere along the length of the lateral, typically they are 3’-6’ in length. Complete indicates that the lateral has been completely replaced from the house to the city main, including the wye connection at the city main.
  
  Any missing information indicates that the city has no information on the category that is blank.
- What is Service Type?
  Service type is the type of use according to the property type. Residential is single family housing, apartments, Condos, etc. Commercial is principally business oriented. Mixed Use is a property that includes commercial use and residential living on the same property.
- What should I do if I have problems with my sewer lateral?
  Call a licensed Plumber to determine the problem. Look for “Plumbing Contractors” in the Yellow Pages or online in your local area. Many have CCTV cameras to inspect the lateral to positively determine what the problem is.
- Who owns the private lateral in the City street right-of-way?
  The property owner is responsible for the entire pipe length, including the wye or saddle at the point of connection to the City's mainline.
- Will my homeowner’s insurance pay for repairs?
  Probably not, most policies do not cover lateral repair costs. This is a home maintenanceexpense. Some home warranties do cover this.
Shopping Cart Ordinance
- How do I report an abandoned shopping cart?
  All shopping carts have owner identification information, including a phone number, that you can use to notify an owner of their abandoned cart(s). Please contact the shopping cart owner directly.
  
  However, if the cart is not picked up within three (3) days, please call (805) 781-7220, or email streetmaint@slocity.com.
- Is grant funding available to assist with security and containment of shopping carts?
  Yes. The City of San Luis Obispo is offering $5,000 grants for the first 12 businesses that submit their completed plan. Please note that documentation of security/containment expenditures is required for plans to be considered 'complete.'
  
  More information regarding documentation requirements can be found in the Plan template.
- Is there a penalty to shopping cart owners for non-compliance?
  Yes. Existing businesses that fail to submit a complete Abandoned Shopping Cart Prevention and Retrieval Plan by the deadline of August 19, 2022 will incur a monthly noncompliance penalty of $100.
  
  Additionally, any owner failing to retrieve their shopping cart(s) within three (3) days after being notified about their shopping cart(s) being off the owner's premises may be punished with an administrative fine of $50 for each occurrence in excess of three during a six-month period, and is required to pay the City's actual costs for retrieving and storing the owner's shopping carts. These fines/penalties are waived if the cart(s) is/are picked up within three (3) days.
- What do I need to do as a business owner to comply with the City's shopping cart ordinance?
  Current businesses have 60 days (until August 19, 2022) to complete and submit their Abandoned Shopping Cart Prevention and Retrieval Plan outlining their compliance. The main elements of this Plan are identified below:
  
  The City of San Luis Obispo has developed a template for business owners to complete and submit to remain in compliance. Appropriate documentation is required in the template. An internal City team will review completed plans for all elements and house them in Energov. New businesses that fall within in this ordinance will be prompted to complete a Plan through business license or planning applications through the Community Development Department.
  
  Click here to download the Abandoned Shopping Cart Prevention and Retrieval Plan Template.
- What is the purpose of the City's shopping cart ordinance?
  The purpose of the ordinance is to get businesses to comply with state law to manage their shopping carts, to retrieve and contain them when left unattended, discarded, or abandoned on public or private property and create a nuisance. Chapter 19 of the California Business and Professions Code (Sections 22435 to 22435.13) permits cities to develop an ordinance with regulations to eliminate the accumulation of abandoned shopping carts within city limits, and it has guided the content of this ordinance.
- Why did the City Council adopt a shopping cart ordinance?
  Shopping carts are increasingly abandoned all over the City and require staff to act as a cart retrieval service; this diverts important resources to the shopping cart removal efforts instead of to the City's core programs and services.
Sidewalk and Parkway Maintenance
- Are there inspections and standards for concrete repair work?
  Yes, all work and materials must be in conformance with the City of San Luis Obispo Engineering Standards and Standard Specifications.
  
  Before placing any concrete you must have the forms, base, tree root removal, and saw cuts inspected. After approval, a City-approved concrete mix must be used. Finish must be a light broom finish with score marks to match the existing sidewalk. After the work is completed, you must call for a final inspection. A permit is required for all concrete work in the public right-of-way. Engineering Standards and Standard Specifications for construction in SLO are available for download free of charge.
  
  For information on obtaining a permit call (805) 781-7200.
- Can I paint the curb in front of my house red?
  Traffic markings shall be placed on public streets for the purpose of regulating, warning, or guiding traffic as stated in the California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (CA MUTCD). The City installs curb paint after careful examination for its needs and impact on City streets. All curb markings in the public right-of-way must be installed by the City or with the City’s approval. Red curbs are enforced by the San Luis Obispo Police Department or Parking Services.
  
  The City has a no-fee Red Curb Permit Program in place to allow property owners to paint and maintain a portion of red curb on either side of their driveway as deemed justified by City staff. The goal of this program is to discourage cars from blocking driveways and to increase the visibility when cars are backing onto the road. A permit can be requested by contacting the Transportation Division at 781-7597. Transportation staff will evaluate the property and issue the permit.
  
  Curb markings installed without approval by the City will not be included in the permitted curb database. These installations will be removed by Public Works, and the cost of the removal will be charged to the responsible party. Furthermore, and unauthorized red curb may present an unnecessary liability in case an accident occurs in the area where the curb markings have been installed illegally and the City cannot provide records to justify the need for these markings.
- If a problem is reported to the City, how long does it take for them to repair it?
  When a report is made to the City, it is entered into a work order program. Generally within a week the site is reviewed and a repair will be initiated as appropriate. If a temporary “fix” such as grinding or ramping the area can be made, that is usually completed by the following week. When caused by a street tree, severe damage that cannot be temporarily fixed is placed at the top of the list to be reconstructed as soon as possible.
  
  Areas of less severe damage are completed as the next priority, working around the City in a systematic fashion in advance of the paving program. That can mean the sidewalk will not be replaced for several years. Damage other than that caused by street trees needs to be followed up by the property owner.
- Is the property owner responsible for repairs if the concrete damage is caused by a tree?
  The City encourages street trees in front of residences. The property owner is responsible for the maintenance of the street tree but the City will repair the sidewalk when the concrete has been damaged by a street tree. Concrete damaged by other trees is the responsibility of the property owner. Maintenance, trimming and replacement of street trees and shrubs is governed by Chapter 12.24.110, 12.24.120 and 12.24.150 of the Municipal Code.
- Related to sidewalk repair is clearance and visibility. When is maintenance required?
  - Visibility – When parkway strip shrubbery interferes with the ability of a driver to see approaching traffic, either from a driveway or an intersection, trimming of shrubs must be completed. Shrubs must be trimmed to a maximum height of 36”, and preferably lower, for a minimum distance of 30’ from an intersection. (Municipal Code 10.60 and 17.16.020)
  - Walkway and Gutter Clearance – Trimming of ground cover or shrubs is required when the plants extend onto or over the sidewalk or gutter.
  - Parkway Strip Condition – All tree stumps, large rocks, trash and holes must be removed. The parkway strip must be level with no tripping hazards. Holes must be filled and leveled with dirt or other material.
- What are the options available for completing the work?
  Construction of curbs, gutters, and side-walks in city streets must be performed by a properly licensed and insured contractor. A permit is required for concrete repair. Permits are valid for 45 days; call (805) 781-7200 for more information.
- What measures should be taken to minimize concrete displacement by tree roots?
  Certain species of trees may raise concrete if preventative maintenance is not performed. To reduce the chance of future concrete displacement, trees can be root-pruned and a root barrier installed. Care must be taken when root pruning to avoid damaging underground utilities. This work must be completed by a licensed tree care specialist. Also, deep-watering the tree, that is, applying a slow trickle of water over a 24-hour period, encourages deeper root growth which reduces the chance of sidewalk damage.
- When is a permit required for landscape maintenance work?
  If the sidewalk or the street must be closed for the work, a permit is required from Public Works. If a tree is to be removed, a removal permit must be obtained. Applications for tree removal are available on the City’s web site on the Public Works page. Additional permit information can be obtained from the Department of Public Works. Permits are valid for 45 days; call (805)781-7200.
- When should property owners consider doing sidewalk replacement?
  Replacement of the sidewalk, curb and gutter should be considered when one or more of the following conditions exist:
  - When there is a vertical difference in height between sections of the sidewalk or concrete parkway strip of 3/4” or more.
  - If the concrete has broken apart.
  - In any instance where the owner has reason to know that the condition presents a danger to users, or the owner has observed someone trip because of damage to the surface.
  - In addition to damaged sections, curb and gutter replacement is typically required when sidewalks and driveways are replaced unless the sidewalk is separated from the curb by a parkway. Patching should be completed when horizontal openings greater than 1/2" exist.
- Who is responsible for maintenance?
  The property owner is responsible for properly maintaining this area (see San Luis Obispo Municipal Code Section 12.16.020 and Streets and Highway Code Division 7, Part 3, Chapter 22). This responsibility includes maintenance of damaged or displaced concrete and abatement of weeds or debris. While the City may be liable for injuries to pedestrians that are determined to have resulted from a dangerous condition of a public sidewalk, property owners should be aware that they may also be found liable if it is determined that they somehow caused the dangerous condition.
- Will the City paint the curb red in front of fire hydrants and mail boxes?
  The subject of parking next to fire hydrants is addressed in the California Vehicle Code (CVC), section 22514, which states, “No person shall stop, park, or leave standing any vehicle within 15 feet of a fire hydrant…” Since the CVC already states that it is illegal to park within 15 feet of a fire hydrant, whether or not there are signs or red curb, the City typically does not designate the area in front of a fire hydrant as a no-parking zone. If there is a pattern of repeated violations by motorists parking next to particular fire hydrants, it can be addressed by increased enforcement by the San Luis Obispo Police Department.
  The City of San Luis Obispo does not designate the area in front of a mail box as a no parking zone. It is the responsibility of the United States Postal Service to deliver the package or mail to the appropriate owner. Contact your local postmaster if you are experiencing difficulty receiving mail.
- Will the City provide sidewalk repair?
  Yes, in certain situations where the damage has been caused by a city street tree. To find out more about this you can either email the Streets Maintenance Supervisor or call us at 781-7220.
Signal and Street Light Maintenance
- How can I make a suggestion or complaint about traffic signals?
  Please email our Transportation Operations staff or call us at 781-7190. For information on City maintained traffic signals click here.
- How do I report a problem with a traffic signal?
  If you observe an issue with a traffic signal, please contact our Signal Maintenance Technician at 781-7220.
- Is there a map showing the City signal locations?
  Yes, please visit our Traffic Signals page for the map and more information on City-maintained traffic signals.
- What is that weird (new) 3-headed signal?
  This new device is called a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB), also commonly referred to as a “HAWK” signal. It is a traffic control device used to stop road traffic and allow pedestrians and bicyclists to cross safely. At a PHB, the beacon remains dark until the push button to cross is activated by a pedestrian or bicyclists intending to cross. Upon activation, the beacons begin flashing yellow, then steady yellow, then solid red. During the solid red phase, drivers must remain stopped while users cross from the side street. Prior to returning to dark, the beacons display an alternating flashing red “wig-wag” that allows drivers to stop and proceed when clear, as they would with a stop sign.
SLO in Motion: New Neighborhood Park
- Does the neighborhood park offer vehicle parking?
  Neighborhood parks in San Luis Obispo do not have parking lots or a significant amount of on-street parking because these parks are meant to serve community members within easy walking, biking or rolling distance. This neighborhood park will not offer a parking lot or on-street parking along Broad Street. Park visitors are encouraged to walk or use one of the 14 bike parking spaces when visiting the park. The curb in front of the park will remain red to prevent passenger loading/unloading near the highway entrance.
- How was the park location selected?
  In Fall 2017, City staff met with North Broad Street neighbor residents to discuss and collect feedback on potential neighborhood park locations at four available undeveloped properties. The four undeveloped properties faced challenges with acquisition and development, so staff determined the city-owned community garden property at 533 Broad St. provided the best space for play features and gathering, while maintaining the community garden spaces. Since the 533 Broad Street site was the first City-owned community garden, in March 2021, Council approved rezoning the site as an Open Space area and prioritized incorporating planters into the design.
- I heard that trees are being replaced in the park. Why is this needed?
  The City worked with the design team, including a certified arborist, to evaluate the health of all trees on site and which ones should be removed for health and safety reasons and/or to make room for new park amenities. To ensure a safe space for park goers and adequate room for new park amenities, the City made the decision to remove a total of seven trees. The following are the specific tree types that are scheduled to be removed in September 2022.
  Willow
  
  Victorian box
  
  Holly Leaf Cherry
  
  Eucalyptus
  Notice will be posted on site in advance of removal.
- What kind of amenities will the new park provide?
  The city will transform the existing community garden at 533 Broad St. into a neighborhood park, a safe and inviting recreation destination in the North Chorro neighborhood area. The neighborhood park project includes the following amenities:
  - Open turf space for cornhole boards and hopscotch
  - Playground with a climbing tree and rope net climber
  - Community garden planter boxes (18 total, including six ADA-accessible planters)
  - Two bike racks providing 14 new parking spaces for bikes
  - Walking path with lighting
  - Safety fencing and security cameras around the park perimeter and at park entrance
  - Shaded gathering spaces
  - Two ADA accessible picnic tables
  - Little free library public bookcase
  - Hydration station with a pet fountain
- Why are there less community garden plots in the site design compared to before?
  It was important to the City to maintain as many of the current community gardening spaces as possible in the new park design, while creating an inclusive environment for all gardeners through the addition of six new accessible planters. The previous community garden featured 18 plots varying in size and condition, and the 12 new community garden plots offer a 4’x6’ raised garden bed, including six accessible planters.
SLO in Motion: North Chorro Neighborhood Greenway
- Are there future bikeway connections proposed in the area?
  Yes. The North Chorro Neighborhood Greenway will connect Downtown SLO to Cal Poly at Highland Drive and tie in directly to the protected bike lanes on Marsh and Higuera Streets. The Cerro Romauldo Greenway is a new greenway project also under construction that will connect to the North Chorro Neighborhood Greenway and Pacheco Elementary School to Bishop Peak Elementary School.
- How did the Greenway project get its name?
  The Greenway project went through a series of name changes including the Broad Street Bicycle Boulevard, Anholm Neighborhood Greenway and the Cerro San Luis Neighborhood Greenway. The original alignment of the project was fully on Broad Street which helped to create its initial name, the Broad Street Bicycle Boulevard. However, after public engagement and planning efforts, the route shifted, and the project was renamed the Anholm Neighborhood Greenway. The term “Neighborhood Greenway” better reflects that the project is a neighborhood improvement including walking and biking improvements, traffic calming, street lighting and greening opportunities. However, after learning that the “Anholm” property tract had a racially discriminating history, City Council quickly decided to develop a “working title” for the project, the Cerro San Luis Neighborhood Greenway, until a new name could be selected and approved. At the July 17, 2022 meeting, City Council adopted the official name "North Chorro Neighborhood Greenway" due to its primary location on the northern segment of Chorro Street.
- How will the Greenway project improve cyclist safety?
  San Luis Obispo families, workers, students and visitors deserve safe streets on which to walk, bike, access transit and drive. The greenway helps this vision. The new protected bike lanes will allow cyclists to travel with more space between them and traffic. For the two-way protected bike route, there will be restricted parking on the west side of Chorro Street from Lincoln Street to Mission Street and on the north side of Ramona Drive from California Fresh Market to Broad Street. Similarly, for the one-way protected bike lane there will be parking restrictions on the west side of Broad Street between Mission Street and Ramona Drive to provide a buffered bike lane in the southbound direction. All of the above improvements are in place to help provide a much simpler and safer option, between downtown and the North Chorro neighborhood, for those who choose to travel by bicycle. City staff will continue with public engagement and education for how to safely use the facilities throughout and after construction.
- If I live on a street where parking will be removed for the bike lane, how will my trash be picked up/where should I place my bins?
  Protected and/or buffered bicycle lanes conveniently provide a space where trash bins should be set. Residents should avoid placing bins within the bike lanes as this creates hazards for cyclists and trash collection services. It is also a violation of the California Vehicle Code and can result in a citation. The photo here indicates where trash bins can be safely placed and accessed for disposal on dedicated pick-up days.
- I'm concerned about not seeing people biking when I pull out of my driveway because parked cars block my line of sight.
  Drivers exiting a driveway should already be looking for oncoming traffic (motor vehicles, bicycle, pedestrian) in both directions prior to entering the street. In some existing conditions, cars parked on the street actually obstruct clear sight of oncoming traffic. As a result, SLO in Motion improvements include introducing areas where on-street parking is restricted to provide drivers with better visibility of others in the area.
- When will construction begin and end for North Chorro Neighborhood Greenway project?
  Construction for the project started in mid 2023 and is expected to be completed by early 2024.
SLO in Motion: Sewer Improvements
- How will the sewer replacement project impact my own property?
  The sewer replacement project will not impact any residential private property. New sewer mains will be installed within the roadway on Meinecke Avenue, Chorro Street and Murray Avenue. The City realizes the importance of replacing aging sewer laterals and encourages private property owners concerned with their own sewer lines (lateral) to take advantage of the City's Sewer Lateral Replacement Rebate Program.
- What is the purpose of the sewer replacement? How will it benefit the community?
  The sewer replacement project will ensure critical wastewater pipelines are proactively maintained so they can remain in service for decades to come. In addition, the sewer replacement project will benefit the community by installing a durable sewer system for residents and the surrounding communities.
- When will construction begin and end for the sewer replacement project?
  Construction on the project began Summer 2022 and is expected to be completed in the Fall 2022.
- Why are water shutdowns necessary, and how will I be notified if my water will be turned off in advance?
  During construction of the sewer replacement project, water shutdowns are needed in order for the construction team to work safely within the trenches underground to replace sewer pipelines. A portion of the safety improvements within the project include the construction of a “highline” which exists as a temporary water line located away from the trench to provide water service to the customers in the affected area while the new line is installed. The “highline” will be in place until the completion of the sewer replacement project in Fall 2022/Winter 2023. The City’s contractor will inform the community of specific water shutdowns in advance to give community members time to prepare.
- Will street parking be impacted by the sewer replacement project?
  For the project team to safely obtain access to the roadway, locate underground utilities and complete the sewer line replacement, crews will need to work within streetside parking areas. Community members can expect temporary limits to street parking during construction. The City’s contractor is required to provide advance notice of any impacts to on-street parking so community members can plan accordingly.
SLO in Motion: Transportation and Mobility Improvements
- When will construction begin and end for the transportation and mobility project improvements?
  The project plans will be presented to City Council in Spring 2024. After they are approved, construction will begin in Summer 2024 and continue through the remainder of the year.
- Are there specific impacts our businesses can expect during the construction phases?
  We know construction is disruptive, and the City is working hard to minimize impacts to businesses and customers as much as possible. However, some temporary impacts are unavoidable. We will do our best to inform businesses ahead of time of any potential impacts as work continues throughout the downtown area. Due to the variety of projects, businesses can expect temporary impacts and inconveniences due to construction noise, traffic delays, marked temporary detours for lane or road closures and odors as a result of paving and heavy construction equipment. However, the City will make it a priority to notify businesses of upcoming notifications at least 30 hours before construction and disruptions begin. Traffic updates and construction progress will be available for businesses through our online services. To help keep your customers informed about the upcoming work, please see the city’s business outreach toolkit.
- Can I submit a request for additional transportation and mobility improvements in my neighborhood?
  The SLO in Motion projects focus primarily on arterials or high volume traffic streets. The community is welcome to submit transportation and mobility requests to the City’s Transportation Division by contacting City Transportation Staff at traffic@slocity.org or (805) 781-7200. Please visit the City’s Traffic Safety webpage to find more resources.
- I have limited mobility and am concerned about not being able to find street parking near my home. Can the City consider installation of an accessible on-street parking space on my block?
  
  The City will address requests for on-street accessible parking on a case-by-case basis and generally follows this process:
  
  1. Review the applicant’s property to confirm that an accessible parking stall cannot be properly accommodated based on site constraints.
  
  2. Confirm that the applicant can verify that they have a legal right to park in a designated accessible space.
  
  3. Confirm that the applicant has no viable access to accessible parking off-street on their property.
  
  4. Provide notice to adjacent properties on the same block so that others are aware of the proposed change.
- What are the areas of the next paving project?
  The next areas to be paved are Monterey (Santa Rosa to California), California (Monterey to Mill), Santa Barbara (Broad to Leff), Morro (Mid-block at 919 to Higuera), Broad Dogleg, Orcutt (Laurel to Johnson) and Morro (Higuera to Palm). More information about paving and significant road and public improvement projects can be here.
- What can I expect during construction?
  Noise, traffic delays, odors, heavy equipment, temporary detours and road closures. Construction activity will be given at a 30-hour advance notice and residential access will be maintained.
- What improvements are included in the 2023 Paving Project?
  1. Fixing damaged streets and potholes to extend the life of existing pavement.
  2. Adding up to 21 new ADA-accessible curb ramps.
  3. Upgrading three intersections to include rapid rectangular flashing beacons and enhanced crosswalk markings.
  4. Introducing 30 new high-visibility pedestrian crossings for additional safe routes for those on foot or wheels.
  5. Constructing more than one mile of buffered and protected bike lanes to protect cyclists.
  6. Improving storm drain and sewer infrastructure to prevent flooding and protect against pipeline breaks or emergency repairs.
- What will access look like during construction?
  Residents should expect temporary closures and detours throughout construction. The project inspection team and contractor(s) will work with residents to always maintain access to their properties. Construction crews will be working Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- When will construction begin and end for the paving project?
  Construction for the project is anticipated to begin in Summer 2023 and is expected to be completed by early 2024.
- Where will the paving project start and when will it impact downtown?
  California Boulevard and Johnson Avenue will be the first order of work as they are near school areas, and we would like them to be completed before school begins. Downtown is expected to be impacted in early 2024
- Why is the paving project necessary?
  Roadway improvements are planned on various arterial roadways to provide rehabilitation to damaged roads and enhance accessibility and safety for all roadway users. In addition to street improvements, aging sewer and stormwater systems will also be upgraded to proactively avoid more impactful and costly repairs. The goal of the project is to ensure the long-term vitality of our streets and neighborhoods.
- Will access to sidewalks, business driveways, deliveries and parklets be maintained?
  Access to sidewalks, driveways and businesses will not be affected by construction. As part of early outreach efforts, the City’s construction team will contact businesses at least 30 hours ahead of major construction activities and coordinate with individual businesses to facilitate deliveries during construction. Downtown businesses’ parklets will not be removed for slurry seal activity. The City’s construction team will protect and work around businesses’ existing parklets.
- Will I be able to receive construction updates in order to share with customers and employees?
  The City is committed to a thorough and comprehensive public outreach program throughout the construction of the projects. We’ve established several channels for the community to reach us with questions and comments about the project and exact timing of construction around your business. We encourage you to share this information about how to connect with our project team and sign up for email notifications.
  
  Call us at 805-783-7887 or email us at sloinmotion@slocity.org
  The community can also sign up for regular updates about SLO in Motion projects by subscribing on the City’s webpage and selecting “SLO in Motion” list.
  
  Updates will be shared on social media: Facebook | Twitter |Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn
- Will new curb ramps be installed?
  Yes. The city will be installing ADA-accessible curb ramps at multiple locations. These locations include Monterey Street, California Boulevard, Santa Barbara Avenue, Morro Street and the intersection of Funston Street and Lawton Street.
- Will there be access to parking spaces for customers of downtown businesses during construction?
  The most cost-effective and convenient parking options during construction are the three parking structures downtown: 842 Palm St., 919 Palm St., and 871 Marsh St. Areas of on-street parking may be temporarily unavailable during construction activities. In addition, approximately 10 parking spaces within the downtown area will be permanently removed in order to meet current on-street parking standards, which require spaces to be a certain width or length, so roadway users can safely travel through the area, whether in a car, on a bike or on foot.
Stormwater
- Can I blow my leaves into the gutter?
  No. Leaves cannot be intentionally blown, left, or deposited in the gutter, stormdrain, or drainage system. In natural settings, only the leaves from trees and bushes next to the creek would fall into a creek. While a little amount of this natural material can be beneficial, the amount picked up by all the trees in the City is far more than the creek can tolerate.
- It’s ok for me to do this in other towns; why can’t I do it in SLO?
  The City of San Luis Obispo, along with several communities throughout the state, has adopted local regulations that prohibit pollution from entering our surrounding waterways. While it’s the law, it’s also the right thing to do. San Luis Creek is home to several types of wildlife including threatened species, provides recreational opportunities, and is a focal point of our community.
- What can be discharged into the gutter?
  Uncontaminated groundwater, air conditioning condensation, uncontaminated roof, foundation, footing, or French drain flow(not including active groundwater dewatering systems), flows from riparian habitats and wetlands, residential car-washing and firefighting flows. Discharges of polluted water to the gutter flow, untreated, into our local waterways.
- Where can I drain my pool?
  You can drain your pool into the sanitary sewer through a sewer lateral cleanout or drain. Chlorine and salts in pool water can kill native steelhead, even in small amounts.
- Why should I be concerned with stormwater when it’s not raining?
  Debris and contaminants can accumulate throughout the year in the stormwater system and will be carried into the local waterways in potentially harmful amounts during the next rain.
Street Maintenance
- How do I find out what the repaving schedule is for city streets?
  City Street rehabilitation is spread out over multiple years by breaking the City up into zones. Check out our Pavement Plan map.
- How do I report a pot hole?
  Contact Public works at 781-7220 or submit an Ask SLO Service Request.
- Is there a map showing the city street cleaning schedule?
  Yes, check out our online Street Sweeping Map.
- There are shoes hanging on the utility lines on my street. Can the City remove them?
  No, the City does not remove shoes hanging from utility lines.
  
  The lines are owned by the specific Utility (not the City). The resident must contact the appropriate Utility company and if they do not get resolution from the Utility they can contact the Public Utilities Commission. Common utility line owners are:
  
  Charter Cable 888-438-2427
  AT&T 800 310-2355
  or PG&E 800 743-5000
- Will the City provide sidewalk repair?
  Yes, in certain situations where the damage has been caused by a city street tree. To find out more about this you can either email the Streets Maintenance Supervisor or call us at 781-7220.
Swim Center
- Are the pools ADA accessible?
  Yes, both pools have ADA accessible lifts and stair access points.
- Are there lockers and showers?
  We do have showers in both bathrooms and on deck. We do not have any lockers, but you can take any items with you on to the pool deck or check them behind the front counter with our cashiers using our storage bags.
- Are there suggested lane speeds? Is there a walking/aqua jogging lane?
  Yes, to both. On the deck, there will be cones that mark the beginning of suggested speed zone. The speeds are only suggestions and if you find an open lane “not in your speed zone,” you are more than welcome to swim there. We have both walking lanes and aqua jogging lanes at all public swim sessions. These lanes are noted with a cone.
- Are you a circle swimming facility?
  Yes. The SLO Swim Center is a circle swimming facility which means that when more than 2 people are in a lane, the swimmers must begin to circle swim. A visual of circle swimming can be found below:
- Can my child come to swim alone at the SLO Swim Center?
  Children under the age of 10 must be actively supervised by an adult 18 years of age or older. All non-independent or non-swimming children must be within arm’s reach of an adult that is 18 years of age or older. The expected adult to child supervision ratio is 1:2.
- Can the community use the SLO Swim Center as a swim location for personal private lessons or coaching sessions?
  The SLO Swim Center is a public facility owned and operated by the City of San Luis Obispo and does not allow private instruction or other uses for financial gain without explicit authorization from the City of San Luis Obispo. Personal instruction offered without charge by a parent or guardian teaching their child how to swim during public swim hours is authorized at the facility so long as all facility rules and regulations are followed. Please contact SLO Swim Center management if you have any questions on swim instruction.
- Do YMCA Members get access to the pool?
  Yes, YMCA Members who have a facilities membership have access to the SLO Swim Center during public swim sessions.
  
  Additionally, our aqua fitness classes that take place during public swim sessions are available to YMCA Members. The Warm Water Exercise classes are not included with a YMCA membership and class participants must purchase a Warm Water Exercise class pass. To enter as a YMCA Member, simply scan your membership card at our scanner and then enjoy the facility.
- Do you have a family locker room/restroom?
  Yes, we offer a single occupancy restroom that has a shower and changing area that families can use.
- Do you offer any fitness classes?
  Yes, the SLO Swim Center offers 4 different fitness classes. We have Aqua Aerobics, Aqua Pilates, Deep Water Aqua Aerobics, and Warm Water Exercise. All classes, except the Warm Water Exercise class, are the same cost as the daily use fees for lap swimming. The Warm Water Exercise classes can be purchased in a bundle of 10 for $55.75. For more information and a schedule of classes please visit www.sloswimcenter.org.
- How can I find out about swimming programs at the pool?
  Please visit slorecactivities.org or contact the Parks and Recreation Aquatics Supervisor by calling (805) 781-7288.
- How can I find out what construction work will be occurring at the Pool?
  In general, you may contact Public Works at 805-781-7200.
  
  For information on the SLO Swim Center Olympic Pool resurfacing construction project, please contact Devin Hyfield at 805-781-7295, or Shawn Tucker at 805-781-7291.
- How can I get a reduced fee for childcare or swim classes?
  We have limited fee reduction credits, based on need, available on a first-come, first-served basis. We start accepting applications for fee credits May 1 for the upcoming fiscal year starting July 1 through June 30. Applications can be picked up at the Parks and Recreation Office.
- How can I make a suggestion, complaint or report a problem about Sinsheimer pool?
  Contact the Parks and Recreation Aquatics Supervisor or call 781-7288.
- How do I find out about how the chemical system works at the pool?
  Please visit our Swim Center Maintenance page.
- How many pools do you have? Are they indoor and/or heated?
  We have two outdoor pools that are heated year-round. The Olympic Pool is 50m x 25yds, kept at 80oF±2oF, and ranges in depth from 4’-13’. The Therapy Pool is kept at 90oF±2oF and ranges in depth from 1’-4’.
- How much is admission and what forms of payment do you accept?
  For lap swimming, admission is $4.25 for adults (18-54yrs) and $3.75 for children and seniors (0-17yrs & 55yrs+). For recreational swim the admission for adults is $4.75 and $4.25 for children and seniors. The SLO Swim Center accepts cash, check, and card for payment.
  
  All guests who enter the SLO Swim Center during public swim hours are required to pay the entry fee or have a current swim pass. This applies to guests that will be swimming or those accompanying swimmers with the intention of staying on the deck and not entering the water.
- Is there a lost and found for Sinsheimer Pool?
  Contact the Parks and Recreation Aquatics Supervisor or call 781-7288.
- Is there a wavier that needs to be signed to use the SLO Swim Center?
  Upon entry and use of the SLO Swim Center, all participants will be required to review and execute the City of San Luis Obispo Assumption of Risk, Wavier, and Release of Liability for the SLO Swim Center.
  - If the participant is under the age of 18, his or her parent or legal guardian must sign on behalf of the participant.
  - The parent or legal guardian may fill out the Assumption of Risk, Wavier, and Release of Liability for the SLO Swim Center off the website as the form can be filled out digitally for the participant that is under the age of 18.
- What is the temperature of the Pool? What are the dimensions?
  The Sinsheimer Pool is kept at 80 degrees Fahrenheit and the Therapy Pool at 88F. The main pool is 50 meters long and 25 yards wide. It takes 9 laps lengthwise to complete a half mile or 18 laps for a mile.
- What items can people bring to the pool?
  Community members can bring the following items to the pool:
  
  Diving toys are allowed at the SLO Swim Center during therapy pool hours. We ask that guests refrain from bringing any throwable toys to the pool as they may cause injury to others, and if it is busy enough, we will ask that the toy be removed. We do not allow pool toys during rec swim.
  
  Your own food. All we ask is that the food is kept away from the pool and that you clean up afterwards. As always, there is no glass allowed on the pool deck.
- What items do you provide to swimemrs?
  The SLO Swim Center provides:
  
  Swim diapers at the cashier counter for $1.00
  
  US Coast Guard approved life jackets free of charge on a first come, first served basis. Guests will need to check out a life jacket at the front desk with the cashier.
  
  Kick boards, pull buoys, aqua jogging belts, and aqua aerobic barbells.
- Where Can I Find the Swim Schedule and Closure Dates for the Pool?
  Please visit the SLO Swim Center webpage for current swim schedules and pool closures.
- Why aren’t you open to the public all day?
  The SLO Swim Center has many users, including local swim and water polo teams, throughout the day and in order to accommodate their needs the facility is closed to the public at certain times. In addition to our other users, the SLO Swim Center has daily cleaning times in order to maintain our facility for our guests.
- Why would the pool close unexpectedly?
  Unfortunately, SLO Swim Center management must make the difficult decision to close portions or the entire swim center due to unforeseen circumstances. We do everything in our power to avoid unexpected closures, however due to the inability to predict staff shortages, injuries, contaminations, or major medical emergencies we cannot usually give forewarning of a closure. If we can let the public know before the closure, we will do so via our monthly newsletter email list which you can sign up by emailing rec_aquatics@slocity.org.
Traffic
- How do I submit a traffic concern?
  Email Traffic Sergeant Mickel at fmickel@slocity.org with any traffic issues.
- What is that weird (new) 3-headed signal?
  This new device is called a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB), also commonly referred to as a “HAWK” signal. It is a traffic control device used to stop road traffic and allow pedestrians and bicyclists to cross safely. At a PHB, the beacon remains dark until the push button to cross is activated by a pedestrian or bicyclists intending to cross. Upon activation, the beacons begin flashing yellow, then steady yellow, then solid red. During the solid red phase, drivers must remain stopped while users cross from the side street. Prior to returning to dark, the beacons display an alternating flashing red “wig-wag” that allows drivers to stop and proceed when clear, as they would with a stop sign.
Trails and Open Space
- How can I report graffiti, trash or other problems in a City Park?
  Thank you for keeping an eye out on our parks! We are working to create a new online portal to report such issues, but aren't quite finished yet. In the meantime, please report any issues to the Parks Maintenance Supervisor at 781-7220.
- How do I contact animal control?
  The County of San Luis Obispo is in charge of Animal Regulations. You can contact them at 781-4400.
- How do I volunteer to do work in a City Park?
  Oh, thank you! Please call our Parks Maintenance Supervisor at 781-7220 and let him know you're interested.
- Is there a lost and found for City Parks?
  Sorry, there is no official Lost and Found, but you should contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 781-7300 or 781-7222 to see if anyone has turned in anything. You may also want to try the San Luis Obispo City Police Department at 1042 Walnut or call them at 781-7312.
- Is there a map showing all City parks and facilities?
  Yes! Please visit our Parks and Recreation Facilities map as well as our interactive Open Space and Trails map. Other maps of interest can be found on our City Maps page.
Transit
- Where are we getting our electric buses from?
  The buses are American Made. Two are undergoing testing and one is made by New Flyer and the other is from Proterra. Six additional buses are expected to be purchased from Gillig next month (July 2023) and the delivery on those buses given supply chain and production issues is three years.
- Can I bring my bike on the bus?
  Yes! SLO Transit buses are equipped with bicycle storage racks on their buses for up to three bicycles. SLORTA buses (county-wide buses) are also equipped with bicycle racks and can accommodate up to six bicycles per bus.
  When transporting your bicycle on the bus, as a courtesy, please exit the bus from the front door and remind the bus driver that you will be retrieving your bicycle.
- Can I buy a pass that works on both SLO Transit and RTA?
  Regional Day Passes allow you to ride on SLO Transit, Regional Transit Authority (RTA), South County Transit (SoCo Transit), Paso Express and Morro Bay Transit. Regional Day Passes are available for sale on buses.
  
  Longer term Regional passes are available for purchase from an RTA Pass Sale Outlet.
- Have you considered being a Bus Driver in your community?
  
  Please contact our transit operator, First Transit, directly: http://www.firsttransit.com/careers
- How do I know which bus to take and what time to take it?
  
  Planning your bus trip is easy with the Google Transit Trip Planner. Simply fill in your starting location and destination then Google will determine your best trip. You can also adjust your trip by departure or arrival time. Give it a try. If you need help, please call us at (805) 541-2877.
  
  We have several ways for you to access route, schedule, and fare information:
  
  - Visit the Trip Planning page
  
  - Download the SLO Transit app to track your bus live (available in Apple or Google Play)
  
  - Printed transit booklets and schedules available on buses and at pass sale outlets, City/County Library, Cal Poly University Union
- Is the bus accessible to passenger with disabilities?
  All SLO Transit buses are accessible to passengers with mobility devices.
  
  SLO Transit also partners with RTA to provide door-to-door ADA service. Additional information is available here: http://www.slorta.org/runabout-paratransit
- Lost and found – I left something on the bus, where can I find it?
  
  Lost and found items are secured at the City Bus Yard. Please call SLO Transit at (805) 541-2877 to confirm we have your item.
- What discounted fares does SLO Transit offer?
  Cal Poly Students, Faculty and Staff with a valid Cal Poly ID can ride SLO Transit by swiping their ID. The fare is fully subsidized (FREE for you!) by Cal Poly.
  
  Children under 5 years of age can ride with their parents for no additional cost. This is limited to 2 children per adult.
  
  If you work in downtown San Luis Obispo, you may be eligible for a fully subsidized (FREE for you!) City bus pass. This program was created to help alleviate downtown parking demand.
  
  You can also download the Downtown Access Pass application. Please bring the completed application to one of the following outlets for a pass:
  - City Finance Department, 990 Palm Street
  - City Public Works Department, 919 Palm Street
  For more information on the Downtown Access Pass, please call 805-781-7531.
  
  For additional up-to-date fare information, please visit our fare page.
- What else do I need to know?
  - SLO Transit currently offers free Wi-Fi on 2 of our buses, the Double Decker bus, and bus # 1366.
  - Hand sanitizer is available on all of SLO Transit buses.
  - Passengers paying with cash must have exact change for the fare being purchased.
  - Passengers must be at a designated stop and ready to board.
  - Passengers can bring items with them on the bus as long as they can be brought on the bus in one trip, and can be carried on the passengers lap or under their seat.
  - Any passengers not following the SLO Transit Passenger Code of Conduct may be asked to leave the bus.
- What is that weird (new) 3-headed signal?
  This new device is called a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB), also commonly referred to as a “HAWK” signal. It is a traffic control device used to stop road traffic and allow pedestrians and bicyclists to cross safely. At a PHB, the beacon remains dark until the push button to cross is activated by a pedestrian or bicyclists intending to cross. Upon activation, the beacons begin flashing yellow, then steady yellow, then solid red. During the solid red phase, drivers must remain stopped while users cross from the side street. Prior to returning to dark, the beacons display an alternating flashing red “wig-wag” that allows drivers to stop and proceed when clear, as they would with a stop sign.
- What’s the difference between SLO Transit and RTA?
  
  SLO Transit provides daily fixed-route transit service within the city limits of San Luis Obispo and Cal Poly. This program also operates the Old SLO Trolley which provides fixed-route service downtown and on upper Monterey on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays depending on the time of year.
  
  SLO Regional Transit Authority (RTA) provides regional fixed-route service (RTA) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) complementary paratransit service (Runabout). RTA operates intercommunity public transportation in San Luis Obispo County (including Arroyo Grande, Grover Beach, Morro Bay, Paso Robles, Pismo Beach, San Luis Obispo and more) and extending into Santa Barbara County to the south.
- When do I need a transfer?
  
  You will need a transfer if you are transferring from one SLO Transit bus to another SLO Transit bus to complete one direction of your trip. Please request when you board the first bus.
  
  Transfers from SLO Transit to SLO Transit are FREE (does not apply to RTA). There are no transfers from the Downtown Trolley to SLO Transit
  
  Transfers are valid for one hour and for the same direction to complete your trip.
- When does the trolley run?
  
  We would love to see you on the Old SLO Trolley! Please refer to the Trolley Schedule for route and schedule information.
- Where can I buy a bus pass?
  Buy your SLO Transit bus pass instantly with the Token Transit mobile app or visit the Fare Information page for pass sale locations.
Transportation
- When will the Prado overpass happen?
  The City has been working through the Caltrans process since 2018 and just completed the selection of an interchange type. The interchange is expected to begin construction in 2026 and due to inflation has increased substantially in cost and will require outside funding to be viable. The construction is expected to last three years. More information about the project and related documents can be found at Prado Interchange | City of San Luis Obispo
- Can I bring my bike on the bus?
  Yes! SLO Transit buses are equipped with bicycle storage racks on their buses for up to three bicycles. SLORTA buses (county-wide buses) are also equipped with bicycle racks and can accommodate up to six bicycles per bus.
  When transporting your bicycle on the bus, as a courtesy, please exit the bus from the front door and remind the bus driver that you will be retrieving your bicycle.
- Can I install my own traffic signs on my street? Paint artwork on the Street?
  Traffic signs and markings shall be placed on public streets only by public authorities or officials having jurisdiction, for the purpose of regulating, warning, or guiding traffic as stated in the California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (CA MUTCD). The City installs curb paint or other traffic signs and markings after careful examination for their needs and impact on City streets. All signs or markings in the public right-of-way must be installed by the City or with the City’s approval.
  
  If these signs are not installed by the City or with City approval, they are illegal and cannot be enforced. Furthermore, such actions by an individual present an unnecessary liability in case an accident occurs in the area where these signs or curb markings have been installed illegally and the City cannot provide records to justify the need for these signs/markings. The CA MUTCD also states that any unauthorized sign placed on the highway right-of-way by a private organization or individual constitutes a public nuisance and should be removed immediately. The City of San Luis Obispo may take appropriate action to remove these unwarranted devices at the expense of the individual(s) who installed them.
- Can I paint the curb in front of my house red?
  Traffic markings shall be placed on public streets for the purpose of regulating, warning, or guiding traffic as stated in the California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (CA MUTCD). The City installs curb paint after careful examination for its needs and impact on City streets. All curb markings in the public right-of-way must be installed by the City or with the City’s approval. Red curbs are enforced by the San Luis Obispo Police Department or Parking Services.
  
  The City has a no-fee Red Curb Permit Program in place to allow property owners to paint and maintain a portion of red curb on either side of their driveway as deemed justified by City staff. The goal of this program is to discourage cars from blocking driveways and to increase the visibility when cars are backing onto the road. A permit can be requested by contacting the Transportation Division at 781-7597. Transportation staff will evaluate the property and issue the permit.
  
  Curb markings installed without approval by the City will not be included in the permitted curb database. These installations will be removed by Public Works, and the cost of the removal will be charged to the responsible party. Furthermore, and unauthorized red curb may present an unnecessary liability in case an accident occurs in the area where the curb markings have been installed illegally and the City cannot provide records to justify the need for these markings.
- How are Speed Limits set in the City?
  All local agencies are required to perform a speed survey in accordance with the California Vehicle Code (CVC) and the California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). See the Section on Speed Limits for more information.
- How does the City choose the location for an installation of a Traffic Signal?
  First, an engineering study of the intersection must be performed. The Transportation Division looks at things such as traffic volumes, pedestrian volumes, posted speed, collision history, road alignment, and visibility. To install a traffic signal, the intersection must meet California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (CA MUTCD) warrants. If warrants are met, engineering judgment is considered to make sure the proposed traffic signal improves the overall safety and operation of the intersection. If the intersection does warrant a traffic signal and is approved by the City Traffic Engineering Staff, it will be installed as soon as funding permits. Traffic Signals are commonly installed as part of the Capital Improvement Program in the City, with projects evaluated by the City Council. The cost for a typical signalized intersection starts at $200,000 and could be in excess of $400,000, with an additional $5,000-$10,000 per year to maintain. Traffic Engineering’s investigation may provide alternate solutions if the study does not warrant the installation of a traffic signal. An alternative solution to a signal can be an all-way stop or signing and striping modifications at an intersection. This utilizes tax dollars most efficiently and can usually be acted upon more quickly.
- How does the City determine installation of different colored curb?
  Curb markings serve a variety of purposes in the City of San Luis Obispo and other cities.
  
  Red curb indicates no stopping, standing or parking at any time, whether the vehicle is attended or unattended. Red curb is typically found at bus stops, near schools, or fire lanes where parking is prohibited to keep motorist from creating a burden. The City Traffic Operations Manager will determine the final location and length for the installation of red curb.
  
  Yellow curb indicates stopping only for the purpose of loading or unloading passengers or material. The City Traffic Operations Manager is the authority in determining the location of loading zones. Yellow curb is typically found near schools or businesses that experience a high volume of deliveries throughout a day.
  
  Green curb markings indicate no stopping or parking for a period longer than what is posted. Locations are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and approved by the City Traffic Operations Manager. Transportation staff will work closely with establishments where transactions are short-term in nature to assure accommodations are made for all businesses and motorist affected by this type of request. Green curbs on public streets are for public use and are not reserved parking for particular people or businesses.
- How many people have to die before the City will fix my street/intersection?
  The City’s highest priority transportation goal is the safety of our residents. The City applies accepted traffic engineering guidelines and principals when analyzing roadway geometry and designing roads. The City is proactive in training staff in the most advanced and innovative aspects of transportation engineering. The Transportation Division manages several programs addressed directly to the safety of our roadways:
  
  Annual Traffic Safety Report:
  The Annual Traffic Safety Program began in 2002 in an attempt to identify high collision locations within the City. In addition, the program actively pursues corrective measures that may reduce collision rates and improve safety for the citizens of San Luis Obispo. This program has had continued success with 55% collision reduction since the program began despite increasing traffic volumes. The report ranks locations by collision rate for motor vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians. The report, along with recommended mitigations, is presented to the City Council. With City Council approval and funds allocated, the mitigation measures are implemented and the locations monitored. To view published reports, click here.
  Communication Between Transportation Staff and the Police Department: Transportation staff meets on a regular basis with the City’s Police Traffic Division to discuss potential problem areas whether they be related to infrastructure or enforcement, and Transportation staff addresses them as needed.
  
  Neighborhood Traffic Management Program: The Neighborhood Traffic Management (NTM) Program applies neighborhood traffic calming measures for the purposes of addressing excessive vehicular speeds and volumes. Qualifying neighborhoods are generally limited to local and residential collector streets. To learn more about the NTM Program, click here.
  
  Respond to Citizen Requests: Transportation staff is more than willing to listen and respond to traffic related concerns. If staff deems it appropriate, traffic studies may be conducted in response to citizen concerns as a means of investigating the concern. If you have a concern and would like to speak with someone from the Transportation Division please call (805)781-7597.
- I am having difficulty seeing the oncoming traffic at a particular intersection. How can the City help?
  Transportation staff will conduct a field study in the area adjacent to a particular intersection where there is a visibility concern to determine whether or not sight distance standards are met. As part of the study, staff checks collision history for the intersection to determine collision patterns. Unusual street geometry, obstructing objects or parking overflow may be some of the reasons for concern. If the intersection does not meet minimum line-of-sight standards and the City Traffic Operations Manager approves mitigation, the City will implement restrictions or improvements. Call the Transportation Hotline to register a request at (805) 781-7597.
  
  These restrictions may involve installation of “No Parking” signs, red curb where approved or removal of trees or obstructions if necessary. When red curb is installed near an intersection, consideration is also given to the preservation of adjacent parking spaces. In all cases, please exercise caution when leaving private property or a side street. Move forward, thus gaining more visibility to exit the driveway or side street in a safe manner.
- I cross an intersection without crosswalks. Can the City install a marked crosswalk or beacon flashers?
  Per the California Vehicle Code (CVC ), section 21950, the driver of a vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian crossing the roadway within any marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. This, however, does not relieve a pedestrian from the duty of using due care for his or her safety. No pedestrian may suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle that is so close as to constitute an immediate hazard.
  
  Intersection crosswalks are typically installed at signalized intersections, near schools, hospitals, places of worship or commercial business areas with high volume of pedestrians. Marked crosswalks should be viewed as channelization devices rather than safety devices. Before installation of any crosswalk is considered, a study of the intersection or segment of road is performed to see if the crosswalk is warranted. Based on collision history, number of pedestrians, the surrounding area, and engineering judgment a final decision will be made by the City Traffic Engineer. Installation of in-pavement or beacon flashers are reserved for schools sites, or areas with extreme pedestrian traffic. Due to the high cost of these two particular devices, funding sources are usually acquired through State or Federal grants. In some cases, the facility creating the pedestrian traffic will pay for the installation. Marked crosswalks are not force fields that will protect an individual. Please look both ways, make eye-contact with the motorist and proceed with caution when crossing any road.
- I live near a school and this impacts the parking in my neighborhood. What can be done about this?
  The Residential Parking District program restricts on-street parking to vehicles that display a permit given to residents by the City. Each district is approved by the City Council. Currently, eleven Residential Parking Districts have been established in the City. See the Residential Parking Districts page for more information.
- Someone in our neighborhood has left a basketball hoop on the street creating parking restrictions. What can be done about this?
  If a basketball hoop is in the public right-of-way, it becomes a safety hazard and is in violation of the City of San Luis Obispo Municipal Code 12.04.020. Feel free to contact the Traffic Hotline at (805) 781-7597 to report a basketball hoop on a City street or sidewalk.
- What can be done to slow down the speeding occurring on our street?
  This is one of the most common questions asked of the Transportation Division in the Public Works Department. The first step is collecting data and identifying if a problem exists on the segment of road. Transportation Division staff will conduct a speed survey to determine if speeding is occurring. A speed survey consists of using radar or laser detection equipment to record vehicle speeds. This is the same procedure used to set a speed limit. Data from the speed survey will quantify the speed of vehicles traveling on the segment. In some cases, speeding is not actually occurring on the street and the resident is informed of these findings. When the data shows that the speed of vehicles exceeds the set by current speed limit on the roadway, the education and enforcement process begins. The Transportation Division contacts the Police Department so we can work together and address the concerns.
- What is that weird (new) 3-headed signal?
  This new device is called a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB), also commonly referred to as a “HAWK” signal. It is a traffic control device used to stop road traffic and allow pedestrians and bicyclists to cross safely. At a PHB, the beacon remains dark until the push button to cross is activated by a pedestrian or bicyclists intending to cross. Upon activation, the beacons begin flashing yellow, then steady yellow, then solid red. During the solid red phase, drivers must remain stopped while users cross from the side street. Prior to returning to dark, the beacons display an alternating flashing red “wig-wag” that allows drivers to stop and proceed when clear, as they would with a stop sign.
- What is the small bicycle symbol in the traffic lane at a signalized intersection?
  This bicycle symbol in the center of the traffic lane is a loop detector for bicycles. When a bicycle is position above this symbol it will trigger the traffic signal using an induction “loop” buried in the street pavement. This will “trip” the traffic signal to give a green to the bicyclists.
  
  Please remember that bicyclists must abide by the California Vehicle Code and are required to obey all traffic signs and signals.
- What needs to occur for the City to allow a full closure of a street so we can eliminate all traffic in a neighborhood?
  It is not the goal of the City to modify existing streets and redistribute problems to other neighborhoods. Some people may think closing a street will solve all speeding problems, but they may not realize the big picture. The biggest impact of a street closure would directly affect the residents living in the neighborhood. The Police and Fire departments would need to find alternative and longer routes to reach residents in need. The City of San Luis Obispo has master-planned and strategically placed fire stations throughout the City to respond to emergencies. Each fire station has a timed route to reach residence in a specific region of the City. Removing a single street connection will add time and modify existing routes. When precious minutes and seconds count, a reroute of emergency response vehicles can make the difference between life and death. Street connections and Fire and Police response times are things the City does not want to jeopardize for residents. All modifications to the existing street network are thoroughly vetted by both the Police and Fire Departments for possible impacts before they are approved.
- Where can I see what the City has planned for future roads or bicycle and pedestrian facilities in my neighborhood?
  The City has many resources for you to see what is being planned for transportation in the future:
  - The City’s Circulation Element of the General Plan identifies many policies, programs, and projects for the future of transportation within the City of San Luis Obispo.
  - The Active Transportation Plan identifies over 50 bicycle implementation projects planned to connect various neighborhoods and areas of the City by bicycle. The plan lists which projects are in which elementary school zones, pavement management zones, and how much the project is estimated to cost.
  - The City also has identified various areas as Specific Planning Areas. These areas have their own detailed plans including goals, policies, and projects for the future. To see how these specific planning areas may affect your neighborhood, take some time to read through them.
- Why doesn’t the City install speed bumps to slow down the speeders?
  The City of San Luis Obispo only allows the installation of speed bumps/humps in the public right-of-way on a limited basis. See the Neighborhood Traffic Management section for more information.
- Why doesn’t the City install Stop Signs to slow down the speeders?
  A stop sign is one of the most valuable and effective traffic control devices when used at the right place and under the right conditions. It is intended to help drivers and pedestrians at an intersection to decide who has the right-of-way. Guidance provided by the California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (CA MUTCD) states, “STOP signs should not be used for speed control.” Newly installed Stop signs in the City of San Luis Obispo follow state guidelines prior to installation. Engineering studies, which are based on State and City Standards, are performed by The Transportation Division to determine if a STOP sign is allowable at a location. Once a study has been performed and an intersection warrants an installation, engineering judgment is then taken into consideration. The City Traffic Operations Manager will make the final decision prior to installing a new Stop sign at an intersection.
  
  Unwarranted stop signs increase noise, air pollution, fuel consumption, and mid-block vehicle speeds. A STOP sign used where it is not appropriate can also result in disrespect by motorist for that location. This misuse might result in disregard at those locations where the STOP sign is needed and appropriate. When traffic conditions do not warrant the installation of a stop sign, non-compliance can compromise safety for all. The City of San Luis Obispo understands the importance of STOP signs and follows CA MUTCD warrants along with applying engineering judgment to make the correct decision when installing these important traffic control devices.
- Why doesn’t the City post the speed limit in my residential neighborhood?
  These fixed, static speed signs are not intended to slow traffic, rather they are a legal mechanism to allow enforcement against those who violate the speed limit. According to the California Vehicle Code (CVC), section 22352(2)(A), all residential streets have a speed limit of 25 MPH unless otherwise posted.
  
  The City of San Luis Obispo and other agencies are not required to post the speed limit on these streets in order to enforce them. This basic rule, known as prima-facie speed, is consistent throughout the nation.
  
  In some rare cases, where road conditions and engineering judgment deems these signs necessary, the City Traffic Operations Manager may allow the placement of Speed Limit Signs on Residential streets. See the Section on Speed Limits for more information.
- Why doesn't the City install Children at Play Signs?
  Children at Play Signs can create a false sense of security for parents and children. "Children at Play" signs are direct and open suggestions to children that the street is an acceptable place to play. Unfortunately, there is the belief that traffic signs will provide protection for the safety of children in the street near their home. This creates the potential for vehicles and children to come in contact. Use of “Children at Play” sign is not allowed under the California Vehicle Code (CVC) section 21465.
  
  A residential street is not the best location for children to play. This creates the potential for vehicles and children to come in contact, and there could be tragic results. Signs of this type have been rejected by the City of San Luis Obispo since they are a direct and open suggestion that children should play in the street.
- Will my bicycle be detected at a traffic signal?
  Most of the traffic signals in San Luis Obispo are designed to detect bicyclists at the intersection. Traffic signals with video detection will be able to detect the presence of a bicyclist. Traffic signals operating with a loop detector will have a small bicycle symbol painted in the center of the traffic lane. This symbol indicates where a bicyclist should position their bicycle to “trip” the signal. Other traffic signals (primarily in the downtown area) are operated by fixed time. These signals do not have detection of any kind and will continue to cycle through for traffic in all directions.
  
  Please remember that bicyclists must abide by the California Vehicle Code and are required to obey all traffic signs and signals.
- Will the City paint the curb red in front of fire hydrants and mail boxes?
  The subject of parking next to fire hydrants is addressed in the California Vehicle Code (CVC), section 22514, which states, “No person shall stop, park, or leave standing any vehicle within 15 feet of a fire hydrant…” Since the CVC already states that it is illegal to park within 15 feet of a fire hydrant, whether or not there are signs or red curb, the City typically does not designate the area in front of a fire hydrant as a no-parking zone. If there is a pattern of repeated violations by motorists parking next to particular fire hydrants, it can be addressed by increased enforcement by the San Luis Obispo Police Department.
  The City of San Luis Obispo does not designate the area in front of a mail box as a no parking zone. It is the responsibility of the United States Postal Service to deliver the package or mail to the appropriate owner. Contact your local postmaster if you are experiencing difficulty receiving mail.
Trash & Recycling
- How can I recycle my hazardous waste?
  Both Cold Canyon and Chicago Grade Landfills have developed hazardous waste drop-off facilities that are open to the public on an ongoing basis. The basic limitations are fifty gallons of liquid or 125 lbs. of other materials per visit.Most materials are accepted except for biological hazards, explosives, and nuclear wastes. Hours are Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Businesses must make an appointment, but private citizens can just show up. For more information or appointments, call the Integrated Waste Management Authority at (800) 400-0811 or 782-8530 (Mon-Fri). Available to all county residents except residents of the City of Paso Robles.
- How do I dispose of needles and sharps?
  All local pharmacies offer Free containers to dispose of used needles and syringes, lancets and other sharp objects.
- How do I get rid of used motor oil?
  Residential curbside disposal of used oil and oil filters is offered by San Luis Garbage Co. Call them at (805) 543-0875 for more information.
- I want more information on curbside recycling; where do I sign up?
  Our residential recycler is San Luis Garbage Company. There is no additional charge for residential recycling. Call 543-0875 to sign up. They also offer a greenwaste recycling program, and literature that explains how to recycle.
- What should I do with my broken steam iron, waffle maker, ice cream maker, crock pot, vacuum cleaner, or similar item?
  Small electric appliances like these should be disposed of with electronic waste at a Household Hazardous Waste Facility.
- Why can’t I recycle Styrofoam?
  Recycling is driven by the market and product availability. Because expanded polystyrene (the generic name for Styrofoam) is so light, it is not cost effective for the recycling industry to ship and process.
Trees and Urban Forestry
- 1. When does a tree in the City of San Luis Obispo require a Tree Removal Permit?
  An application packet is required for removal of any Street Tree; any tree over the size requirement listed in FAQ #4; any tree within 25' of a creek bank; any tree that is related to development, construction or remodel; and any tree that is within a commercial area or part of a community development approved plan such as a shopping center, apartment, condo, or any HOA managed property.
  
  Section 12.24.090 (C)
  
  The tree is a designated native species and the trunk is less than ten inches in diameter as measured by diameter standard height (DSH, four feet, six inches per International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) standards) (see Section 12.24.030, Definitions; native trees), or when the tree is nonnative and the trunk is less than twenty inches DSH; and
  
  2. The tree is not located within a creek setback area (see Section 17.70.030); and
  
  3. The tree is not a designated street tree, and is not located within ten feet of the back of the sidewalk; and
  
  4. Planting or retention of the tree was not a condition of development; or
  
  5. The tree is a palm and the trunk is less than twelve inches DSH.
- 2. How much does it cost to submit a tree removal application?
  Yes, the fee is $182.37 payable by check to the City of San Luis Obispo and collected at the time the removal application packet is submitted.
- 3. Can anyone remove a tree in the City of San Luis Obispo?
  Only a property owner or authorized agent acting on behalf of the property owner can submit a tree removal application for review by the City Arborist.
- 4. Can a tree be removed without paying for a tree removal permit?
  Yes, but only when the tree is located on developed residential zoned private property R-1 and R-2 zones and under 20'' diameter at shoulder height or a native tree under 10'' in diameter at shoulder height. (see list below). Any tree removals related to Development, Construction, Multi-Family and Commercial zoned property, or part of a Homeowner’s Association (HOA) will need a Tree Removal Application on file with the City of San Luis Obispo.
  
  "Native" means the following listed trees:
  
  (1) Quercus Agrifolia (Coast Live Oak)
  
  (2) Umbellularia Californica (California Laurel)
  
  (3) Platanus Racemosa (California Sycamore)
  
  (4) Juglans Californica (Southern California Black Walnut)
  
  (5) Salix Lasiolepis (Willow)
  
  (6) Populus Trichocarpa (Black Cottonwood)
  
  (7) Heteromeles Arbutifolia (California Holly Toyon)
  
  (8) Acer Macrophyllum (Big Leaf Maple)
  
  (9) Acer Negundo (Box Elder)
  
  (10) Quercus Lobata (Valley or White Oak)
- 5. How is a tree measured to determine if it needs a Tree Removal Application?
  The diameter of a tree is calculated by taking the circumference measurement around the tree at 41/2 feet above ground level (if on a slope, taken from the uphill side).Once you know the circumference, divide that number by 3.14 to get the diameter of the tree. Example: A tree’s circumference measures 72” around so divide that number by 3.14 to equal 22.9” in diameter.
- 6. What are "Street Trees" and who maintains them?
  Street Trees make up a large part of the city’s Urban Forest. The trees planted in the parkway area between the sidewalk and the street including neighborhood theme trees, are generally considered Street Trees. Our Urban Forest Services conducts zonal pruning on these trees every 8-10 years. In between that time, property owners can hire a certified arborist with a current San Luis Obispo business license to prune a Street Tree at their expense and only with City Arborists’ approval.
- 7. Can a property owner apply to have a Street Tree removed?
  Yes, a property owner can submit a Tree Removal Application including fee, to remove a Street Tree. If approved, removal of tree and replacement replanting will be at the property owner’s expense.
- 8. What qualifications are required by the City when hiring a tree care contractor to prune my private trees or the City Street Tree in front of my property?
  Tree care contractors must possess an appropriate contractor's license, business license in the City and have at least one currently certified ISA Arborist on its staff overseeing any approved tree work. Please contact Public Works at 781-7220 regarding any proposed tree work on a City Street Tree.
Utilities
- How can I report water waste in my community?
  Water waste can be reported by calling to Utilities Administration at 781-7215 or by reporting through the City's community app AskSLO.
- How do I learn more about my drinking water?
  The City of San Luis Obispo encourages people to learn more about their drinking water. Learn more at:
  
  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention http://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/drinking/public/index.html
  
  U.S. Environmental Protection Agency http://water.epa.gov/drink/
  
  You can also contact the US EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791.
- How much water is left in our reservoirs?
  Water supply and reservoir levels can be found on our Water Sources page.
- What is Condition?
  Condition is the structural integrity of the lateral upon inspection. The lateral is given a rating based on the “condition” of the pipe and what defects are observed during the inspection.
  
  Good - condition is free of defects and shows no sign of deterioration.
  
  Fair condition is a lateral with a few minor defects and can be maintained easily without harm to the pipe.
  
  Poor - condition is a lateral with some major defects impairing the function of the lateral and pipe material shows signs of failure.
  Failure - is a lateral with severe problems such as heavy roots, missing pipe, soil visible through the pipe material (ex. – Cast Iron with rust holes through the sidewall – Orangeburg pipe present). Lateral is beyond its useful life and can no longer be safely maintained.
- Why is chlorine added to City water?
  To protect drinking water from disease-causing organisms, or pathogens, water suppliers add a disinfectant, such as chlorine. The practice of disinfection has nearly eliminated most acute waterborne diseases such as dysentery, typhoid fever, and cholera in the United States. However, disinfection practices can be complicated because disinfectants themselves can react with naturally occurring materials in the water to form by-products (Total Trihalomethanes -TTHM’s) which might potentially pose health risks. It is critical to provide protection from pathogens using disinfection, while simultaneously reducing potential health risks to the population from disinfection by-products.
Utility Billing
- Why do we pay sewer fees?
  Sewer fees pay for the complete operation and maintenance of the collection, treatment and pretreatment programs. The sewer fund is self-supporting and does not receive money from outside sources such as the General Fund.
- Why don’t I have any water?
  If you just moved into your house or apartment you have to sign up for service.
  
  If you already have water service, you should be aware that the water distribution system occasionally has main line breaks. When this happens, the crews rarely have the opportunity to notify the public. In an emergency shutdown such as this, distribution crews notify the police of the areas that will be affected. For a planned water main shutdown, crews give 48 hour notices to customers in the area the shutdown will affect.
- Why is my current water bill so much higher than my last?
  A malfunctioning or leaking toilet is the most common problem, and it may be responsible for the sudden increase in your water bill. If you hear the sound of water running when your toilet is not in use, it can be wasting 100-500 gallons of water per day.
  
  To learn how to detect or repair toilet leaks or find other useful water conservation information, visit the Conservation webpage or call 781-7215.
- Why is our water pressure low?
  1. Debris caught in the aerator screen in your faucet (to fix this, remove the screen & clean, then replace the screen).
  2. A partially closed valve on the property being served
  3. Aged galvanized steel plumbing which has become restricted due to interior corrosion and mineral deposit build-up.
  4. A Pressure regulator that has worn out or failed.
Volunteer
- How do I volunteer to do work in a City Park?
  Oh, thank you! Please call our Parks Maintenance Supervisor at 781-7220 and let him know you're interested.
- What resources are available to the most vulnerable people in our community?
  Community Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo County (CAPSLO) provides services to over 30,000 individuals in 11 California Counties. CAPSLO focuses on the most vulnerable people in the community and seeks ways to help them become self-sufficient.
  
  CAPSLO takes the health and well-being of our client families, our staff, and our community with the utmost seriousness. As the COVID-19 health crisis intensifies and as school districts have closed and other recommendations by public health agencies have been made to keep the people safe, CAPSLO has made the following adjustments to their programs and services click here to read more.
  
  CAPSLO is looking for volunteers! To help at the 40 Prado Center please submit an application online at www.capslo.org/volunteer
Wastewater Collections
- What are the sources of wastewater?
  Wastewater is comprised of water from toilets, sinks, showers, manufacturing, laundromats, etc. Rainwater and runoff from the streets are collected in separate stormwater sewers and released to local waterways.
- What is material type?
  Material type is the type of material your lateral piping is made of. The common pipe types are High Density Polyethylene, Cast Iron, Vitrified Clay, Orangeburg and PolyVinyl Chloride. ABS Pipe is included under PolyVinyl Chloride. For more information of pipe type and characteristics click here.
- What part of the sewer system am I responsible for?
  The homeowner is responsible for their sewer lateral from the house to the connection at the City main (usually located in the street).
- Who do I call when I have a sewer problem?
  Call the City Corporation Yard dispatchers at 781-7215 during normal operating hours (Monday-Friday 7am to 4:30pm). After-hours calls should be directed to Police Communications at 781-7312.
Wastewater Treatment
- Are discharge requirements hard to meet?
  At times meeting requirements can present a significant challenge. Since our advanced treatment systems are biological in nature, they are influenced by weather, diurnal changes, wastewater flow changes, waste-strength fluctuations, etc. Meeting our stringent discharge standards requires our facility to always operate at its optimum level.
- How is water recycled?
  The City of San Luis Obispo Water Reclamation Facility produces a disinfected tertiary recycled water by removing the waste from wastewater that residents discharge to the sewer. This recycled water is suitable for irrigation and many other uses. The Water Reclamation Facility uses the biological and mechanical processes described below to produce this high quality recycled water.
  - Primary treatment uses bar screens and settling basins to remove materials that settle or float.
  - Secondary treatment uses bacteria and other microorganisms to remove carbonaceous wastes and to convert ammonia to nitrates. The Water Reclamation Facility uses trickling filters and activated sludge basins to raise these microorganisms and then uses clarifiers following each of these processes to remove the microorganisms from the water. Following secondary treatment 95-98 percent of the organic material and solids have been removed.
  - Tertiary treatment cools, filters, and disinfects the water before it is provided for reuse and dechlorinates the water that is discharged to the creek.
  For more information please visit the Water Resource Recovery Facility Page
- Is recycled water safe?
  The use of recycled water is regulated by the Water Resources Control Board, the same agency that regulates drinking water. The recycled water produced by the City of San Luis Obispo is suitable for irrigation of playgrounds and all food crops as well as many other uses. It is not approved for drinking, food preparation, or swimming. However, the incidental contact or consumption of this recycled water which might be anticipated with the approved uses is not harmful.
- What are the costs to operate the plant per year?
  3.2 million dollars per year.
- What are the sources of wastewater?
  Wastewater is comprised of water from toilets, sinks, showers, manufacturing, laundromats, etc. Rainwater and runoff from the streets are collected in separate stormwater sewers and released to local waterways.
- What significant change have you seen in the creek and/or habitat?
  Steelhead and Salmon are now making their way upstream of the Water Resource Recovery Facility outfall that is several miles from the ocean.
- Where will recycled water be used?
  A separate distribution system was constructed to deliver recycled water. It will be distributed to customers who have a large demand for water. Including, parks, schools, athletic fields, highway landscaping, and landscaping in commercial and multifamily residential areas.
Water Conservation
- Do I need a permit for my rainwater collection system?
  Per City of San Luis Obispo Municipal Code, the following must be met to be exempt from a permit for rainwater collection:
  
  "A water tank or a group of water tanks intended for storage of irrigation water only supported directly on grade if the capacity does not exceed 600 gallons in total on a parcel, the height does not exceed seven feet, the ratio of height to width does not exceed 2:1 (provided that water tanks with minor ratio deviances may be allowed under this section in the discretion of the Chief Building Official, subject to review of the deviation by the Chief Building Official and verification that such minor deviations do not adversely impact structural stability), and it is not visible from the public right-of-way that abuts the front yard".
- How can I report water waste in my community?
  Water waste can be reported by calling to Utilities Administration at 781-7215 or by reporting through the City's community app AskSLO.
- How much water is left in our reservoirs?
  Water supply and reservoir levels can be found on our Water Sources page.
- Is the City offering turf removal rebates?
  Currently, the City does not offer any incentives for homeowners to remove their lawn. Over the years the City adopted and administered many rebate programs such as the low flow toilet/faucet/shower head rebate program (1990-2007), the high efficiency washing machine rebate program (2000-2011), the high efficiency sprinkler rebate program (2007-2010), the weather based irrigation control rebate program (2007-2010), and the low-flow toilet replacement and water efficient washing machine rebate programs (2015-2017). Each of these programs were available city-wide and highly utilized by the community. As participation dwindled, these programs were eliminated and we have turned our focus to water audit and leak detection programs.
  
  While we don’t have a turf removal program in place at this time, it doesn't mean we won’t in the future. We acknowledge that we are often affected by drought and have taken many measures to conserve water. For instance, most of the City’s large parks as well as many large private development lawns are irrigated with recycled water.
- Why is my current water bill so much higher than my last?
  A malfunctioning or leaking toilet is the most common problem, and it may be responsible for the sudden increase in your water bill. If you hear the sound of water running when your toilet is not in use, it can be wasting 100-500 gallons of water per day.
  
  To learn how to detect or repair toilet leaks or find other useful water conservation information, visit the Conservation webpage or call 781-7215.
Water Conservation Rebate Program
- Can I still get a rebate if water service is under my tenant’s name?
  Yes, a property owner is eligible to participate even if water service to the property is under a tenant’s name. If this is the case, City of San Luis Obispo staff will verify that the applicant is the current property owner.
- How do I find out if my device is WaterSense certified?
  Visit https://lookforwatersense.epa.gov/products/ for a full list of WaterSense certified products.
- I don’t have photos of the make/model of the device I replaced. Can I still apply for a rebate?
  Unfortunately, no. The photos required are to confirm that the replacement is in fact more water-efficient and will lead to water savings. Without photos of the device that is replaced, that determination cannot be made.
- I own an apartment and would like to replace all of the toilets in the building, can I get a rebate for more than 4 toilets?
  Each applicant is limited to the maximum quantity allowed listed. During the application period, you can indicate if you would like to be contacted if additional funding is made available. If funds are available at the end of the Fiscal Year, staff will contact those who have indicated that they would like to be notified.
- I rent my home, can I still get a rebate?
  Yes, renters may be eligible to participate if the individual or business receiving the rebate is the active account holder for water service through the City of San Luis Obispo Utilities Department.
- I replaced my toilet with an approved model during 2022, can I still apply for a rebate?
  No, the City’s Water Conservation Rebate Program is only available for devices purchased on or after January 1, 2023.
- The device I purchased does not fall under the requirements listed in the table, can I still get a rebate?
  If a device you are interested in does not meet the above requirements, please email the make and model of the device to UT_Services@slocity.org. Staff will review your request and advise if a rebate would be approved on a case-by-case basis.
- Who can apply for a rebate?
  City of San Luis Obispo water customers are eligible for devices based on customer type (single-family residential, multi-family residential, or commercial/industrial/institutional). If you are unsure of your customer class type, please call the City of San Luis Obispo Utilities Department at (805) 781-7215. Please verify eligibility for each device in the provided table.
Water Distribution
- Why don’t I have any water?
  If you just moved into your house or apartment you have to sign up for service.
  
  If you already have water service, you should be aware that the water distribution system occasionally has main line breaks. When this happens, the crews rarely have the opportunity to notify the public. In an emergency shutdown such as this, distribution crews notify the police of the areas that will be affected. For a planned water main shutdown, crews give 48 hour notices to customers in the area the shutdown will affect.
- Why is my water sometimes discolored?
  Routine hydrant flow tests, system maintenance or water main breaks can result in discolored water. This is caused by a change in direction and velocity of water within the pipes. If this happens, let the water run at your faucet for several minutes until it flows clear. If the problem persists, call Utilities, 781-7215.
- Why is our water pressure low?
  1. Debris caught in the aerator screen in your faucet (to fix this, remove the screen & clean, then replace the screen).
  2. A partially closed valve on the property being served
  3. Aged galvanized steel plumbing which has become restricted due to interior corrosion and mineral deposit build-up.
  4. A Pressure regulator that has worn out or failed.
Water Sources
- Can I take my boat on Whale Rock Reservoir?
  No private boats/float tubes or bodily contact is allowed in Whale Rock Reservoir
- How do I access Whale Rock Reservoir?
  Public access is off of Old Creek Rd approximately 1.2 miles NE of Hwy 1 and Old Creek Rd.
- What is the total capacity of source water when both Salinas & Whale Rock reservoirs are full?
  The Salinas Dam (Santa Margarita Lake) can store 23,843 acre-feet and Whale Rock Dam can store 40,600 acre-feet.
  
  The City’s share of the Whale Rock Dam total storage is 55.05%, or 22,383 acre feet, which provides a combined total of 46,183 acre-feet.
- What kind of fish are in Whale Rock Reservoir?
  Native steelhead trout, bluegill and non-native Sacramento suckers.
- Where does my water come from?
  The City is fortunate to have a diversified water portfolio. We receive the majority of our water from Santa Margarita Lake, Whale Rock Reservoir and Nacimiento Lake. A small percentage is available from groundwater wells. The City does not receive State water.
Water Treatment
- Does the City use chlorine or chloramines?
  Chlorine is added as our secondary disinfectant to ensure the water is safe as it travels through our distribution system to our customers. We do not use chloramines.
- How do I learn more about my drinking water?
  The City of San Luis Obispo encourages people to learn more about their drinking water. Learn more at:
  
  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention http://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/drinking/public/index.html
  
  U.S. Environmental Protection Agency http://water.epa.gov/drink/
  
  You can also contact the US EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791.
- How much water is treated each day?
  Approximately 5.5 million gallons are treated and used each day in the City.
- What is done to make the water safe to use?
  
  The City water system is regulated by the State Water Resources Control Board – Division of Drinking Water. All of the water from surface water sources is treated at the City’s Water Treatment Plant through a very thorough treatment process.
- What is in our water?
  We perform thousands of analyses each year on the water beginning at the source, through treatment, and all the way to the customer's tap. The results are summarized in our Annual Water Quality Report.
- Where does my water come from?
  The City is fortunate to have a diversified water portfolio. We receive the majority of our water from Santa Margarita Lake, Whale Rock Reservoir and Nacimiento Lake. A small percentage is available from groundwater wells. The City does not receive State water.
- Why is chlorine added to City water?
  To protect drinking water from disease-causing organisms, or pathogens, water suppliers add a disinfectant, such as chlorine. The practice of disinfection has nearly eliminated most acute waterborne diseases such as dysentery, typhoid fever, and cholera in the United States. However, disinfection practices can be complicated because disinfectants themselves can react with naturally occurring materials in the water to form by-products (Total Trihalomethanes -TTHM’s) which might potentially pose health risks. It is critical to provide protection from pathogens using disinfection, while simultaneously reducing potential health risks to the population from disinfection by-products.
- Why is my water sometimes discolored?
  Routine hydrant flow tests, system maintenance or water main breaks can result in discolored water. This is caused by a change in direction and velocity of water within the pipes. If this happens, let the water run at your faucet for several minutes until it flows clear. If the problem persists, call Utilities, 781-7215.
Winter Weather Guide
- Am I at risk?
  The City of San Luis Obispo Public Works Department has an interactive flood zone map. If you are unable to view it, you can give us a call at 781-7201 or drop by the City Engineering Division offices at 919 Palm Street for more information.
- But... I don't want to walk the plank!
  Arrgh, Matey, and shiver me timbers! Besides making great forts, planks and railroad ties can help change the direction of flowing water as effectively as sandbags - and in most cases even better than sandbags.
  
  Planks and railroad ties can be prepared in advance and stored as long as needed. They are easily and quickly installed and dismantled by one person. No need to call the neighbors on this one.
  
  When setting the stakes, be sure they are firmly driven into the ground. Nail the planks and railroad ties to the stakes.
  
  And don't forget, the good folks in Public Works have diagrams of exactly how to use sandbags, planks and ties to divert flowing water. Give us a call at 781-7246 if you need more information.
- Can I use baffle boards to protect my doorway entrances?
  You sure can. Just by stepping over the barrier, occupants can enter or leave the house - or customers can enter or leave the store.
  
  Doorways baffle boards are constructed similarly to the window or vent baffles described above, except that the gasket material must also be folded around the bottom edge of the board to make a water-tight seal.
  
  A few things to remember when using baffle boards to protect doorway entrances:
  - When installed, the bottom gasket must be compressed and firmly held down to make the bottom seal. The baffle can be held in place with nails, screws or bolts.
  - For frequent re-use, it's better to use a type of bolt for which lead anchors can be permanently installed on the door frame, because nails or screws may split or weaken the door frame.
  The baffle boards can be stored from year to year, before and after use, and are thus always ready for an emergency.
  
  Unless the cracks and joints under and around door sills and frames are caulked or sealed, the baffle boards won't work. Use white lead or a good caulking compound for a sealer which will last several years with little or no maintenance.
  
  If all of this is getting too technical, never fear. Call the folks at the Public Works Department, 781-RAIN.
- I haven't planted anything on my backyard slope. What should I do?
  Where there's slope, there's ire. If the rain starts to pour, you're going to get very upset - unless you Get Ready!
  
  Here are some ways to control erosion on unplanted slopes and banks:
  - If water is flowing onto your property, you've got a problem. But there is a solution. Dig a small ditch with a hoe or shovel fairly close to the upper edge of the property. Wait until the soil is moist so that it can be easily worked. Build the ditch nearly on the horizontal to produce slow water movement. Have the ditch empty into a creek or onto pavement or to a well-vegetated area.
  - If water is falling onto your property, dig the same type of small ditch at the top of each steep slope. On slopes, do not allow large amounts of water to concentrate along one route. On soils especially susceptible to erosion, use inexpensive plastic sheeting to protect it. These sheets can be overlapped like shingles so that the great majority of water does not reach the soil at all. Shrubs may be planted through the plastic by cutting a hole just large enough for planting.
  - To slow the water down, use shingles or other small pieces of wood as little dams at any point when the soil is "rilling" - a fancy word for "washing away." Simply push the shingles or board solidly into the ground across the path of the rill or small gully so that it acts as a dam. Make sure that the ends of the dam are buried deep in each side. On long slopes it is advisable to use ditches, such as those previously mentioned, at intervals down the slope. Keep them close to the contour and build to empty onto pavement or into dense vegetation.
  My best advice? Plant some plants when the weather clears up. No slope likes to feel neglected.
- I just bought a new car and park it in my garage. How can I keep the water out?
  Ooh, nice - can I take a spin?
  
  You can use baffle boards - made in much the same manner as described for doorways and vents - to protect that brand new automobile (or even a clunker).
  
  Here are some suggestions:
  - A suitable board one inch thick may be used instead of plywood for the door seals.
  - The bottom edge of the baffle board should be shaped to fit the driveway surface so that there will be a water-tight seal on the bottom.
  - For hinged doors, the sides and center opening of the door may need separate baffles to seal door cracks vertical to and higher than the bottom seal.
  - The openings around the hinges or hasps must be sealed with such materials as modeling clay, floral clay, and the ever-popular children's Play-Doh or other such stuff.
  - You can protect garages with overhead doors from higher water by stacking additional baffle boards to the desired height.
- I still have more questions, can you help?
  You bet! Give the folks at the SLO Public Works Department at 781-RAIN and we'll do our best to answer any more questions you might have. Additionally, you can check out our Flood Preparation Brochure for more information.
- I'm baffled by baffle boards. What are they, and how do I use them?
  That's my job, to de-baffle you about such things as baffle boards.
  
  Baffle boards are usually ¾" plywood. To use them properly, you should have them overlap the window or vent by 3 or 4 inches on all sides. Also, strips of felt, foam rubber or other soft material, at least 2 inches wide, should be attached with waterproof glue (make sure it's waterproof, folks, or it sort of defeats the purpose) to the overlap surface of the board to form a gasket. Your neighborhood hardware store stocks many suitable waterproof glues.
  
  The baffle boards can be held securely in place with one or more nails, screws or bolts. The boards can be nailed to wooden frames, but if screws are used, the screw holes should be protected by lead anchors or expansion sleeves. In stucco, cement or brick walls special screws or expansion bolts will be required. These can be purchased in almost any hardware store.
  
  Baffle boards can be held and wedged into place by a board and stake as shown. Nothing fancy, but it works.
- Is it safe to surf on flood waters?
  You're joking, right? Sure, it's tempting to get out of your car and watch the water rush through once-mellow or bone-dry creeks. It can make an adventure junkie want to grab a board, a kayak or an inner tube and take on those roaring rapids calling your name. But storm waters are very unpredictable and extremely DANGEROUS!! Stay away from creeks and bridges. A large floating object, such as a fallen tree, can jam under a bridge - forcing the current up and over the bridge and possibly sweeping you into the water. DO NOT enter the water no matter how much fun it looks!
  
  So if we ever experience heavy rains again here in San Luis Obispo, here's what you need to remember to stay safe:
  - Pay attention to flood warnings on local radio and television stations. In San Luis Obispo, the emergency broadcasts can be heard on local radio and television stations.
  - Move valuable household items to the upper floors of your home.
  - If you must travel during a storm or flood watch, plan an alternate route, if possible, before you leave your home or business. Tell someone where you are going and when you should reach your destination.
  - When driving, be alert to your surroundings and possible hazards. How much water is flowing in or across streets, or under or over bridges?
  - Do not drive through a flooded area. Two feet of water will carry away most automobiles.
  - Do not drive around road barricades.
  - If your car stalls, abandon it immediately and get to higher ground.
  - Do not walk through flowing water. Just six inches of moving water can cause you to lose your footing.
  - Stay away from power and electrical wires. Report downed power lines to Pacific Gas & Electric Company at (800) 743-5000 or the City Police Department at 781-7317.
  - If you smell gas or hearing a blowing or hissing noise, open a window and quickly leave the building. Shut off the gas at the outside main valve, if you can, and call the gas company from a neighbor's home.
  - If you're told to evacuate, do so as quickly as possible. If you heeded earlier advice, your car's gas tank will be filled and waiting.
- Is there anything I can do to strengthen the soil so it resists erosion?
  What a sophisticated question! Straw or wood chips are effective in holding the soil in place. They have the further value of increasing the organic content of the soil. Either material should be worked into the top few inches of the soil. Use a one-inch covering of chips or three inches of straw as a guide. Apply more or less as slope and soil conditions indicate. Nitrogen fertilizer should be added with either.
  
  If you don't know what nitrogen fertilizer is, call us at 781-RAIN. Or better yet, ask the experts at your local nursery!
- My house has a wood floor. Am I doomed?
  No gloom, no doom: As long as you're ready!
  
  In houses with standard wood floors, water can leak into and fill the crawl space or basement through foundation cracks, pipe holes, vents and windows. It can seep between the house siding and foundation sills. Once the crawl space or basement is filled, the water pushes up into the building through floors and wall joints until it reaches the height of the outside waters.
  
  So, here's what you "wood" do:
  - Seal vents and windows with baffle boards as described below. Vents are required by building codes to prevent mildew and rot. Therefore, all baffle boards must be removed as soon as the flood danger passes.
  - Fill cracks in the foundation or stucco wall with cement or other effective crack-filler material.
  - Seal small openings around pipes with cement, crack-filler or caulking compound.
  - Seal the joint between the siding and foundation with caulking compound.
  There, now wasn't that simple?
- My house is built on a slab. It's safe from water, isn't it?
  "Slab" can be such a funny sounding word, but there's nothing nonsensical about how to protect homes built on slab (concrete) floors. You may think you're safe - after all, what can penetrate concrete? - but water has its ways of coming into these types of homes, too.
  
  Special paint can help keep water from penetrating stucco or brick walls. But water usually comes up between the foundation and the outside wall, then flows over or under the sill and through and under the inside wall or plaster board.
  
  Leaky, sneaky stuff, water is. Don't fret. Here's what you need to do:
  - Patch up all cracks in the outside stucco and cement foundation with regular patching mixes available at hardware stores.
  - Clear the dirt away from the stucco apron and caulk the lower exposed edge with any of the many commercial caulking components, such as white lead, putty or asphalt mixes. This seal will last for several years with minor maintenance. The dirt may be pushed back into place without affecting the seal.
  - For temporary protection of stucco or wood-siding walls, fasten plastic sheeting, waterproof building paper or similar material to the side of the house with lathing or sticks and then cover the lower edge of the material with dirt. Remove the sheeting or paper after the water has receded to avoid rot and mildew in the house frame.
- My property falls within a flood zone! What should I do?
  Stay calm, winter is not a time for ulcers. It's a time to be prepared, so first things first. There are many things you can do waaaaay before you start filling sandbags or buying seltzer tablets.
  
  Like...finding out about flood insurance. Since homeowner's insurance policies do not cover damage from floods, talk to your insurance agent about flood insurance. You can also call the National Flood Insurance Program at (888) Call-Flood.
  
  Like...investigating that creek or drainage way near your property. Has it flooded in the past? How much rain causes it to overflow? During wet weather, keep a watch on the rising water. Report any potential problems to the folks at 781-7220 (City Corporation Yard).
  
  Like...rolling up your sleeves - and pant legs - and cleaning out the gunk from drainage ways located near your property. Call the City at 781-RAIN and report fallen trees and broken drains or pipes now, so we can get out there and make repairs before the rainy season begins.
- My property isn't in a flood zone, but I still want to get ready. What can I do?
  Good question. Everyone should have emergency supplies on hand and follow safety guidelines.
  
  Store supplies such as these at home, at work and in your car:
  - First aid kit and prescription medicines and/or insulin
  - Food (canned, dried or food that doesn't need to be refrigerated), plus food for those with special diets; pet food
  - Non-electric can opener
  - Drinking water - plan on one gallon of water per person per day for three days, minimum.
  - Portable radio, flashlights and extra batteries (candles are not recommended, because you never know when you might be in an environment where there is a flammable agent nearby)
  - Cash and credit cards
  Also, always keep your car fueled. Know safe routes - by car and by foot - from your office or home to high, safe ground. Not all the way to Denver or anything, but someplace where you won't be wading through water.
  
  Keep lumber, sandbags, plywood and plastic sheeting handy for emergency waterproofing.
- Rover doesn't know how to dog paddle. How can I help him?
  Aside from getting him swimming lessons, there are many ways you can protect Rover and your other pets should winter weather threaten their safety. First, put identification tags on all your pets (cats, too). If a storm threatens, don't leave pets outside or tied on a leash. Bring them inside, and have a stack of newspapers handy for sanitary purposes.
  
  If you are not going to stay in your home during a storm, arrange to leave your pets with your veterinarian or your friends, or leave them loose inside your home. Provide them with plenty of food and water. Remove the toilet tank lid, raise the seat and brace the bathroom door open so they can drink, if necessary.
- The storm is over. Now what?
  Breathe a sigh of relief along with the rest of us. Then, follow these guidelines:
  - If you had to turn the gas off, do not turn it back on yourself. Wait for a utility crew.
  - Do not eat food that has come in contact with flood waters.
  - Follow local instructions regarding the safety of drinking water.
  - Do not touch live electrical equipment in wet areas. If any electrical equipment or appliances have been in contact with water, have them checked before you plug them in again.
  - Do not visit a disaster area. Your presence could hinder rescue and emergency operations.
  - Stay tuned to radio or television for information and instructions.
- The water's coming right now and I missed the winter weather sale at the hardware store - Help?
  Those of you with kids are lucky - in more ways than one. You're bound to have Play-Doh - or some similar gooey stuff - to use to fill and seal cracks and joints around the door, the sill and frames. No Play-Doh? Try putty, modeling clay, or even floral clay can be used for the same purpose. All can be easily removed when flood waters subside.
  
  I knew there was a reason why they called it sill-y putty.
  
  To seal doorways, plastic sheeting or waterproof building paper can be held in place with waterproof masking or good ol' electrician's tape.
  
  We all have electrician's tape in our tool box, don't we? Oh, you don't have a tool box? Then look in your junk drawer. It'll be there, guaranteed.
  
  And although such materials as putty and modeling clay are effective short-time seals, the cracks around the door sill and frame should be filled with a good caulking compound for a longer-lasting seal.
- What about my kids? What can I do to protect them?
  Remember the rule: Children and children first. And more importantly, as soon as they're old enough, teach them how - and when - to call 9-1-1 and which radio station they should listen to for emergency information.
  
  Also, develop an emergency communication plan, in case your family gets separated during a flood emergency. Make a plan for how to get back together. Here's an easy way to make the whole thing work: Ask an out-of-state (or just out-of-the-area) relative to be the contact person. Make sure everyone in the family knows their name, address and phone number!
- What do I need to know about sandbags?
  Ah, yes, the dreaded sandbags. Actually, sandbags are your friends. They can push flowing water around your property rather than through it - which is the objective, right?
  
  Here are a few tips for using sandbags:
  - Fill bags only half full.
  - Fold over the empty top of the bag to prevent sand from leaking out.
  - Place each bag over the folded top of the preceding bag and stamp each bag into place before placing the next bag.
  - Always finish one complete layer of sandbags before starting the next layer.
  - Stagger the second layer of bags, stamping each bag into place before placing on the next bag.
  Remember, sandbags have absolutely no effect - or very little, at least - on standing water. And, unfortunately, they can't be prepared ahead of time because they'll rot.
  
  Allow plenty of time to fill them, which you'll be doing right before or during a storm. Grab those neighbors and cash in a few favors. (Some advice: Return their rakes and saws and other stuff you've borrowed before you ask for their help.)
  
  Before heavy storms, sandbags can be filled at four locations within the city. Sand is deposited at these locations only in anticipation of a forecasted, significant rain event i.e. 2-3 inches rainfall.
Youth Services
- Does the City provide childcare and are au pairs offered as an option?
  The City provides before and after childcare services to the community whether children attend on a regular basis or just drop in on an as needed basis, they will be welcomed into the program. Many other providers such as the YMCA and private providers also provide childcare. Meghan Burger at the City can provide more details about City programs, and she can be reached at Burger, Meghan mburger@slocity.org or at 805-781- 7070. An overview of programs can be found here. Au pars are a service that are provided by the private sector and there are commercially available websites that can provide references and links for those services. Referral services and other business referrals can be sought at the Chamber of Commerce. CAPSLO can aid those seeking general childcare here.
- How can I get a reduced fee for childcare or swim classes?
  We have limited fee reduction credits, based on need, available on a first-come, first-served basis. We start accepting applications for fee credits May 1 for the upcoming fiscal year starting July 1 through June 30. Applications can be picked up at the Parks and Recreation Office.
- How can I make a registration payment for classes or buy childcare hours?
  Although we do not take payments over the phone, in most cases you have the option to pay online through our Active registration site or at the Parks and Recreation Office.

Approval Type	*Duration^‡**
Architectural Review Commission (ARC)	8-12 weeks
Administrative Use Permit/Variance/Parcel Map	4-6 weeks
Legislative Decision (Rezone, Annexation, General Plan Amendment, etc.)	12-20 weeks
Tract Maps	12-26 weeks
Planning Commission Use Permit	8-12 weeks

Approval Type	*Duration^‡**
Architectural Review Commission (ARC)	8-12 weeks
Administrative Use Permit/Variance/Parcel Map	4-6 weeks
Legislative Decision (Rezone, Annexation, General Plan Amendment, etc.)	12-20 weeks
Tract Maps	12-26 weeks
Planning Commission Use Permit	8-12 weeks

FAQs and Answers

Accessible Parking

Accessible Parking Information

Affordable Housing

Does the City own or manage affordable housing units?

How do I qualify for affordable housing?

How many homes will be built in the next two years - affordable home versus market rate?

How much is the City spending to support supportive housing for homeless individuals?

What affordable housing incentives are available?

What is affordable housing?

What is inclusionary housing?

Applying for Parking Permit

What is a Residential Parking Permit District?

What types of parking permits are available for purchase?

Bicycle

Are there bicycle education opportunities within San Luis Obispo?

Can I bring my bike on the bus?

Can I ride my bike on sidewalks in the City?

I want to ride my bike but where can I park it?

What does a green bike lane mean?

What is a bike box?

What is that weird (new) 3-headed signal?

What is the small bicycle symbol in the traffic lane at a signalized intersection?

Will my bicycle be detected at a traffic signal?

Bicycle Sharrows

Bicyclists riding over these markings take up the lane, aren't they supposed to move to the right?

Can I drive my car over these markings, or is this a bike lane only?

Is the City going to start putting these on all streets that don't have a bike lane?

I've never seen these markings before, why are they being used now and does anybody else use them?

So if I don't see these markings, then it's not a shared lane and bikes can't be there?

What is a Sharrow?

Why can't cyclists just look inside the parked cars and move out when they see somebody in a car?

Building Permits

Do we have pre-planned options for quicker and cheaper ADUs?

How do I apply for a permit?

How long will it take to obtain a building permit?

How much will my application cost?

I want to build an accessory building on my property? What is the process? What can I build?

My property is on the Master or Contributing list of historic resources, what does this mean?

What does Architectural Review evaluate?

What materials do I need to submit for an exception?

What type of approval will I need for my business?

Business

Does the City provide childcare and are au pairs offered as an option?

How can I find out what zone my property is in?

How can I get a reduced fee for childcare or swim classes?

How can I make a registration payment for classes or buy childcare hours?

How can I pay for my approved reservation online?

How is the City protecting downtown SLO - the police presence, safety, homelessness, cleanliness, vacancies.

My property is on the Master or Contributing list of historic resources, what does this mean?

What is a Use Permit?

What type of approval will I need for my business?

City Facilities

Do I need a permit to use my portable barbecue in a park?

How can I find out what construction work will be occurring in City Buildings?

How can I get permission to reserve a City Facility?

How can I pay for my approved reservation online?

How can I report graffiti, trash or other problems in a City Park?

How do I contact animal control?

How do I contact the Friends of the Adobes?

How do I get permission to use a City park?

How do I report a problem in a City Building?

How do I reserve the Jack House Gardens?

Is alcohol allowed in City parks?

Is there a lost and found for City Buildings?

Is there a lost and found for City Parks?

Is there a map showing all City Buildings?

Is there a map showing all City parks and facilities?

What are the hours for City park use?

What equipment is available for use in the Library meeting rooms?

What indoor facilities does the City rent out to the public?

Where can I see a listing of all available indoor and outdoor City facilities?

Code Enforcement

How can I dispose of bulk items such as couches, mattresses, televisions, etc?

How can I dispose of household hazardous materials such as paint, motor oil, etc?

How does City staff become aware of potential code violations?

I received a Notice to Correct for violations in my front yard , what does that mean?

Someone in our neighborhood has left a basketball hoop on the street creating parking restrictions. What can be done about this?

What are some examples of City codes the City staff enforce?

What happens if my property is in violation?

What is a User & Impact Fee Study? 