FAQs • Richmond • CivicEngage

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Billing

1. Which properties are subject to the Rental Housing Fee?: Any property with a Rental Unit, as defined in Section 11.100.030 of the Fair Rent, Just Cause for Eviction, and Homeowner Protection Ordinance, is subject to the Rental Housing Fee. This includes units exempt from rent control but subject to just cause for eviction requirements, such as properties with one dwelling unit on one parcel, condominiums, and new construction.

2. How much is the Rental Housing Fee?

Each year, the Richmond City Council adopts the Rental Housing Fee for the upcoming fiscal year following a recommendation from the Rent Board. The amount of the Rental Housing Fee for past, current, and future years is contained in the table below.

Fiscal Year	Fully Covered Units	Partially Covered Units	Governmentally Subsidized Units
2022-2023 (Applicable to Rental Units rented or available for rent at any point between July 1, 2022 - June 30, 2023)	$226 per Rental Unit	$127 per Rental Unit	$127 per Rental Unit
2021-2022 (Applicable to Rental Units rented or available for rent at any point between July 1, 2021 - June 30, 2022)	$218 per Rental Unit	$123 per Rental Unit	$123 per Rental Unit
2020-2021 (Applicable to Rental Units rented or available for rent at any point between July 1, 2020 - June 30, 2021)	$219 per Rental Unit	$124 per Rental Unit	$124 per Rental Unit
2019-2020 (Applicable to Rental Units rented or available for rent at any point between July 1, 2019 - June 30, 2020)	$212 per Rental Unit	$112 per Rental Unit	$112 per Rental Unit
2018-2019 (Applicable to Rental Units rented or available for rent at any point between July 1, 2018 - June 30, 2019)	$207 per Rental Unit	$100 per Rental Unit	$50 per Rental Unit
2016-2017 (Partial Year) & 2017-2018 (Applicable to Rental Units rented or available for rent at any point between December 30, 2016 - June 30, 2018)	$145 per Rental Unit	$145 per Rental Unit	$145 per Rental Unit

3. How can I pay the Rental Housing Fee?

Landlords are encouraged to pay the Rental Housing Fee online at https://etrakit.ci.richmond.ca.us.

Select your name from the drop down menu under the “Contractor/Landlord/Utility Login” section. Usernames are organized by last name first. Your password is listed on your invoice in the "PAY ONLINE" section at the bottom left side of the page. Should you need assistance with your payment please contact our office at 510-234-RENT (7648) or schedule an appointment online.

Alternatively, Landlords may send a check to the City of Richmond Rent Program, 440 Civic Center Plaza, Suite 200, Richmond, CA 94804. Please include your FRJC# and rental address on the check.

4. When is the Rental Housing Fee due?: Payment of the Rental Housing Fee is due (postmarked) within thirty-five (35) days of the date printed on the top of the invoice.

5. Does my Rental Unit qualify for the Rental Housing Fee for Governmentally-Subsidized Rental Units?

In order to qualify for the FY 2022-2023 Governmentally-Subsidized Rental Housing Fee, the owner must be participating in one of the following programs for the Rental Unit in question (see Regulation 202 for detail):

A. Rental units in which a tenant household holds a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher and where the rent not does exceed the Payment Standard as published by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

B. Rental units for which the rent is subsidized by the Project-Based Section 8 Program.

C. Rental units that are “rent restricted” in a Low Income Housing Tax Credit Program Project. “Rent Restricted” means the rent charged for the unit is affordable for a qualifying Tenant pursuant to the Regulatory Agreement.

D. Rental units for which the rent is subsidized by the Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program.

E. Rental units that are “rent restricted” under a regulatory agreement between a governmental agency and a property owner. “Rent Restricted” means the rent charged for the unit is affordable for a qualifying Tenant pursuant to the Regulatory Agreement.

6. Are there penalties for late or nonpayment of the Rental Housing Fee?

Yes. Failure to pay the Rental Housing Fee before the filing of an Unlawful Detainer (eviction) lawsuit is a complete defense to an unlawful detainer (RMC 11.100.060(s)(3)).

In addition, the City Council adopted monetary penalties for late payment of the Rental Housing Fee, as shown in the table below. The City Council is also authorized to assess a lien on property where there are outstanding Rental Housing Fees (see Ordinance No. 16-17). Furthermore, Landlords with delinquent Rental Housing Fees may be referred to collections.

Days Late	Penalty (%)
1-30	10% of the Rental Housing Fee
31-60	25% of the Rental Housing Fee
>60	50% of the Rental Housing Fee

7. I recently purchased a rental property. Whose responsibility is it to pay the Rental Housing Fee?: The Rental Housing Fee is assessed to a Rental Unit, not the Landlord. The Rent Ordinance requires that all Landlords pay the Rental Housing Fee, and defines Landlords as including all successors of interest. As such, the owner on the property title, as recorded by the Contra Costa County Assessor, is responsible for paying the Rental Housing Fee, irrespective of when the property title was transferred.

8. Why is the Rental Housing Fee necessary?

The Rent Program is designed to be a cost-recovery department, meaning its operations will not require assistance from the City’s General Fund. Instead, the Rent Program will rely on the Rental Housing Fee to generate the funds necessary to provide services to landlords, tenants, and community members:

• Counseling for Landlords, Tenants, and other community members in our office, over the phone, and by email – we are available Monday-Friday to answer any questions

• Monthly Community Workshops provide education to Landlords and Tenants about the requirements of the Rent Ordinance, Relocation Ordinance, and related policies and regulations

• Print materials: PowerPoint presentations, notice templates, resource guides, fact sheets, etc.

• Legal services referrals to community services agencies

• A hearings and petition process (at no additional cost)

• A mediation program (at no additional cost)

9. How was the amount of the Rental Housing Fee calculated?

The amount of the Rental Housing Fee is based on the annual operating budget adopted by the Rent Board.

Further reading: Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Rent Program Budget and Fee Study

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City Attorney

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1. Serve subpoenas or other legal documents?: The City Clerk is the Agent for Service of Process for the City of Richmond. Please contact the City Clerk’s Office, 450 Civic Center Plaza, Richmond, CA 510-620-6513.

2. Resolve a dispute with a neighbor? Will you represent me in my lawsuit?: The City Attorney’s Office cannot provide legal services to private citizens. You may call the Contra Costa Center for Human Development at 925-687-8844. The Center has dispute resolution programs available. More...

3. Find an attorney to represent me?

If you are in need of an attorney, you should contact the Lawyer Referral Service sponsored by the Contra Costa County Bar Association at (925)825-5700.

You may also contact the Bay Area Legal Aid Contra Costa County at (510) 233-9954.

If you are a senior citizen in need of legal services, contact Contra Costa Legal Assistance for the Elderly at (510)374-3713 or online at http://www.seniorlegalservices.org/ Lawyer Referral...

4. Contact the District Attorney's Office?: The District Attorney’s Office is located in the Richmond Superior Courthouse at 100 - 37th Street, Room 220, Richmond, CA. They can be contacted at 510-231-1800. D.A. Office Website...

5. Contact the Public Defenders Office?: The Public Defenders Office is located at 3811 Bissell Avenue, Richmond, CA, across the street from the Richmond Superior Courthouse. They can be contacted at 510-412-4900. Public Defenders Website...

6. File a claim against the City? My car hit a pot hole.: Claims against the City of Richmond are filed in the City Clerks's Office located at 450 Civic Center Plaza, Richmond, CA - 510-620-6513. Claim Forms can also be downloaded from the City Clerk's Webpage. More...

7. Request Public Records: All requests for public records should be directed to the City Clerk’s Office 450 Civic Center Plaza, Richmond, CA 510-620-6513. Requests for public records can be made orally, in writing, in person, via email, or over the telephone. The City of Richmond encourages you to submit your request in writing. Your request should be specific, focused, and sufficiently described so that the records can be identified, located and retrieved. You can also submit a Public Records Request Form to the City Clerk’s Office Public Records Request Form

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City Clerk

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1. Know the day(s) the City Council meets?: Council meetings are held on the first and third Tuesday of each month, with exceptions being holidays.

2. Know the procedures and protocols for City Council Meetings?: See
Resolution No. 61-13

3. File a claim against the City of Richmond?: Claims against the City of Richmond are filed in the City Clerk's Office, and must be filed within six months of the incident. [Online Fillable Form]

4. File a Claim against the Richmond Housing Authority?: Claims against the Richmond Housing Authority are filed in the City Clerk's Office, and must be filed within six months of the incident. Fillable RHA Claim Form

5. Apply for a City Commission or Board?: All Boardmembers and Commissioners are appointed by the Mayor with the approval of the City Council. To qualify for appointment, an applicant must meet the requirements of the boards and commission they are applying for. No one may be appointed without filing an application, individuals can only serve on one commission at a time, and employees cannot serve on any board or commission [Online Fillable Application]

6. File an appeal?

Decisions of the Planning Commission and the Design Review Board (DRB) can be appealed to the City Council. Appeals must be filed within 10 days following the Planning Commission or DRB rendering their decision. If the 10th day is on a weekend, the appeal must be filed by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, the first business day following the weekend. If the Monday following the weekend is a holiday, then the appeal must by filed by 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday.

A filing fee of $150 must be paid at the time the appeal is filed. If the fee is not paid at the time the appeal is filed, the appeal is returned to the appellant with instruction that the appeal is not considered filed until the fee is paid.

Public Hearing for appeals must be scheduled and heard within 30 days after the appeal is filed. The Clerk selects the date of the hearing and sends a letter to the appellant informing him/her of the date of the hearing and the hearing procedures. [Online Fillable Form]

7. Request Public Records?

Submit a Public Records Request Form to the City Clerk's office through the City of Richmond's NextRequest portal - to submit a request click here.

Requests can also be sumitted to the City Clerk's office in person.

Requests for documents will be accommodated with consideration to workload priorities and available staff. Pursuant to the Public Records Act, within 10 days after you have requested public records, the City must respond to your request by stating whether the records you have requested are public records subject to disclosure and, if so, when the records will be made available for examination and copying. The City may charge a fee for photo copying of documents.

For more information on records requests click here.

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City Manager

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1. Use COR Connect for questions, complaints, compliments?: Follow 3 easy steps, from any page in the left navigation bar click on
COR Connect

2. What is the Graffiti, Illegal Dumping and Blight Hotline?: Contact Code Enforcement at 510-965-4905.

3. Report sewer emergencies or odors?: Call the Veolia 24-Hour odor hotline number at 510-412-2001. Veolia will respond to investigate within 30 minutes.

4. Report street potholes?: Contact Public Works at 510-231-3011. Streets Maintenance Division Webpage

5. Report an abandoned vehicle?: Contact the Police Department's abandoned hotline number at 510-620-6644.
Code Enforcement

6. Report illegal dumping and spills, pollutants entering stormdrains, stormwater maintenance?: For stormdrain maintenance call Veolia Water at 510-412-2001. To report dumping, trash in gutters and spill reports call 510-231-3030. To report pollutants entering the stormdrain call 911 or 1-800-NO-DUMPING. More information.

7. Obtain a building permit?: Contact Building Regulations at 510-620-6868 or visit them at 450 Civic Center Plaza, Richmond, CA. Building Regulations

8. Report graffiti?: Contact Code Enforcement at 510-965-4905.

9. Pay traffic tickets?: Contact the Municipal Court at 510-374-3171 or visit them at 100 37th Street, Richmond, CA. Richmond Superior Court

10. Obtain a business license?: Contact the Business License Department at 510-620-6742 or visit the Business License Window at 450 Civic Center Plaza, Richmond, CA. Business License

11. Report City tree problems?: Contact the Parks Division at 510-231-3004. Park & Landscaping Division

12. Obtain water service or report a broken water pipe?: Contact East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) at 866-403-2683. East Bay Municipal Utility District

13. Request a birth, marriage or death certificate?: Contact Contra Costa County Records Department at 925-335-7900. Contra Costa County Clerk Recorder

14. Report a broken or burned out street light?: For lights on metal poles contact Public Works at 510-231-3010.
For lights on wooden poles contact Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) at 800-743-5000 or visit their website.

15. Report a non-functioning traffic signal?: Contact the Electrical Shop at 510-231-3033. Public Works

16. Apply for a job within the City?: Contact the Human Resources Department at 510-620-6602 or visit them at 450 Civic Center Plaza, Richmond, CA. Human Resources

17. Obtain a schedule of City meetings?: Contact the City Clerk's Office at 510-620-6513. City Clerk

18. Contact the landfill and recycling center?: Address: West County Landfill, 1 Parr Blvd., Richmond, CA.
Phone: 510-262-1610

19. Start garbage pick-up service?: Contact Richmond Sanitary Services (Republic Services) at 510-262-7100.
Richmond Sanitary Service

20. Obtain info regarding low interest home repair loans?: Contact the Community & Economic Development Department at 510-307-8140 or visit them at 440 Civic Center Plaza. Community and Economic Development

21. What do I do if my sanitary sewer lateral is damaged by trees?: Follow the steps in the Claim Procedures

22. Obtain a permit for a block party?: Please click on the link below. More...

23. Obtain a permit for a special event or parade?: Please click on the link below. More...

24. Obtain a film permit?: Please click on the link below.
More...

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Code Enforcement

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1. What is the purpose of the Code Enforcement Unit and what services does it provided?: The Code Enforcement Unit addresses Richmond Municipal Code violations involving health, safety, public nuisance and property maintenance.

2. Am I required to display an address at my residence?: Yes. All residences and businesses in the City of Richmond must have an address posted. Residences numbers shall be no less than be 4" and business numbers shall be no less than least 6" and visible from the public right-of-way.

3. I have received a Notice from the City Code Enforcement Officer for violating one of the City Ordinance. I don't feel I was given enough time to correct the problem. What should I do?: Contact the citing Officer at listed number or visit the Code Enforcement Unit within the Richmond Police Department at 401 27th Street, Richmond CA 94804 within the time frame if you wish to discuss the circumstances and/or you may file an appeal requesting additional time. Based upon the circumstances, deadline may be extended.

4. What if the violation is not corrected within the specified time?

After an Officer re-inspects a property and determines that the violation still exist. The Officer can either elect to issues an Administrative Citation or a Non-Compliance Notification.

The Administrative Citation for the first offense is $250.00 per Richmond Municipal Code (RMC) violation, the 2nd Administrative Citation $500.00 per RMC violation, and 3rd Administrative Citation $1,000.00 per RMC violations OR the Officer can issue a Non-Compliance Notification in the amount of $308.00 ($243.00 for Inspection and Notice and $65.00 Re-Inspection). The City may also abate the violation at the property owners expense.

You also have the right to an Appeal which must be filed within the time frame given for correction. There is a cost to file an Appeal. A Hardship Waiver package can also be obtained from the Code Enforcement Unit.

If your Appeal is granted you will be notified of the date and time of Hearing.

5. Who turned me in?: We receive complaints from a number of sources including internal referrals, outside agencies and the general public. We do not give out the source of the complaints.

6. Am I required to have garbage service?

Yes. It is the duty of every owner of any premises in the City to subscribe to and pay for the solid waste collection service.

Each owner of a premises shall start services within seven (7) days of the occupancy of a premises. If owner fails to start service, the collector shall give owner a written notification that such service is required. If service is not initiated within fifteen (15) days from the date of mailing of notice, then collector shall initiate and continue service for the owner.

It is the duty of every owner of any premises to maintain receptacles provided by the collector for receiving and holding all the solid wastes created or accumulated upon said premises between the times for the collection of the solid waste, and to deposit all such solid waste therein. All receptacles shall be kept in a sanitary condition at all times and shall not be placed within the limits of any street or other public place in the City, except that the owner of any premises shall place receptacles at the curb in a location reasonably convenient for semi-automated or automated collection on the regularly scheduled days established by the City or the collector for collection of solid wastes in the area.

Every owner of a single or multiple-family residential dwelling shall provide and keep receptacles of an adequate size and in sufficient numbers to contain, without overflowing, all the refuses generated by the dwelling residents within the designated removal period. The owner shall provide a minimum of one receptacle per family residential dwelling unit or the equivalent thereof as agreed between the owner and the collector pursuant to Richmond Municipal Code 9.20.170.

7. A property in my neighborhood becomes overgrown with tall weeds? Is there a way to make the owner maintain their property?: City ordinance makes it illegal to permit grass, weeds or any other vegetation to grow more than six inch. Individuals should contact the Code Enforcement Unit and provide information on the property. An Officer will inspect the property and contact the owner. The owner is given seven (7) to ten (10) days upon receipt of notice to have the property brought into compliance. However, if the owner does not abate nuisance the City’s Code Enforcement Unit will, if necessary, under a warrant hire a private contractor and/or have the Code Enforcement Abatement Crew to either abate nuisance. The City will invoice the owner of record for the work done plus administrative costs and a lien will be placed on the property.

8. My neighbors have violations too. Why aren’t you investigating them?: If you suspect there is a code violation on another property, you may contact a Code Enforcement Officer and provide this information.
A case will be opened and investigated appropriately. If a violation is found to exist, the owner will be contacted and required to correct the violation.

9. What are setbacks and how do I determine mine?: Setbacks are the minimum distance that a building or structure can be placed from a property line and other structures. Setbacks can vary depending on the zoning. Contact the Planning Department staff to determine your setbacks for the type of structure you wish to build.

10. The violation existed before I bought the property. Why am I responsible for clearing the violation?: Violations run with the property, not with the person who created the violation. If you purchased a property that has violations, you are responsible for abating the violations.

11. A vacant lot in my neighborhood becomes overgrown with tall weeds. Is there a way to make the owner mow the lot?: City ordinance makes it illegal to permit grass or weeds to be more than six (6) inches tall. Individuals should contact the Code Enforcement Unit and provide information on the property. An officer will inspect the property and contact the owner. The owner is given seven (7) to ten (10) days, upon receipt of notice, to abate violation. However, if the owner cannot be located or does not abate violation a warrant will be obtained and City crew will abate violation. The City will invoice the owner of record for the work done, done plus administrative costs, and a lien will be placed on the property.

12. A house in my neighborhood has various cars parked around it. Is this legal?: If any of the vehicles are dismantled or incapable of being moved under their own power, they are considered inoperable vehicles and are not allowed to be parked on streets or private property unless garaged. Owners of illegally parked vehicles can be made to remove them within a specified time period. If the owner fails to remove junk or inoperable vehicles, a warrant may be obtained to remove vehicle(s) and/or immediate removal. Contact Vehicle Abatement for specific information 510-621-1278.

13. A Notice of Violation is recorded against my property. How can I get it removed?: All violations must be abated, and all Code Enforcement and recording fees must be paid. Once the violation is abated and the fees are paid we will record a Release of Lien Notice with Contra Costa County Assessor’s Office.
Contact Code Enforcement Administrative staff at 510- 620-6944 for additional information.

14. How do I park legally?: See attached hints- Helpful Hints to Park Legally

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Community Development

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1. Apply for a building permit?: To apply for a building permit please go on our online eTRAKiT system and follow the how-to submit a building permit application guide. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your building permit please reach out to permittechs@ci.richmond.ca.us or call at 510-620-6868.

2. Get started on a new planning project?: Please consult a planner for any upcoming planning projects via planning@ci.richmond.ca.us or call at 510-620-6706. To apply for a planning project please go on our online eTRAKiT system and follow the how-to submit a planning project application guide.

3. Apply for an accessory dwelling unit (ADU)?: To begin the application process for constructing an ADU, you will need to determine if your property qualifies for an ADU. For more information about ADUs and the permitting process for these projects, please reach out to planning@ci.richmond.ca.us. You may review the Accessory Dwelling Unit Checklist and Accessory Dwelling Unit Handout for additional information on what is required in an ADU application prior to submitting on eTRAKiT.

4. Obtain a fence permit?: The first step in obtaining a fence permit is to consult with a planner about the fence you are interested in proposing. To do this you may email planning@ci.richmond.ca.us or call 510-620-6706. Please also review the Fence Permit - Residential Checklist and Residential Fence Design Guidelines and Standards. When you are ready to submit your application you can do this online through eTRAKiT and follow the how-to submit a planning application guide.

5. Apply for a business license?: To apply for a business license please go on our online eTRAKiT system and follow the how-to submit a business license application guide. If you have any questions or concerns reach out to business_license_revenue@ci.richmond.ca.us or call 510-620-6742.

6. Find my zoning and other information for points of interest?: The Zoning Lookup shows how the zones and overlay districts are applied throughout the City. You may search by address or parcel number (APN) to find more information about a particular point of interest.

7. Report an issue or concern?: To report a nuisance violation or to request an investigation, call (510) 621-1279 or email the Code Enforcement Unit.

8. Pay required fees through eTRAKiT?: Please follow the how-to pay fees guide to understand how you may pay required fees through eTRAKiT.

9. Schedule or cancel an inspection?: Through the Automated Phone Inspection Scheduling System you may schedule or cancel an inspection. This may also be done through eTRAKiT.

10. Find a permit on record?: In eTRAKiT under Permit Application, select “Search for Permit” to find a permit on record.

11. Attend a Board or Commission meeting?: You may find information on the Design Review Board, Historic Preservation Commission and Planning Commission in our Boards & Commissions section.

12. Request a zoning verification letter?: You may request a zoning verification letter by applying through eTRAKiT under Planning Projects.

13. Find affordable housing in the City of Richmond?: Please refer to the Housing & Community Development’s Affordable Housing section to learn more. You may also reach out to housing@ci.richmond.ca.us for additional questions.

14. Obtain a subordination agreement?: In order to obtain a subordination agreement, please send the following information to housing@ci.richmond.ca.us: property address and APN, type of transaction (sale or refinance), owners’ name, buyers’ name, new lender (as it should appear on the subordination), new loan amount, title company name and address, title company contact, and the copy of agency deed of trust with rider to be subordinated.

15. Learn more about the Safe Parking Pilot Program?: You may learn more about the Safe Parking Pilot Program and read over the Frequently Asked Questions to get started. For more information reach out to safeparking@ci.richmond.ca.us.

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Coronavirus

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1. Will City Council meetings still be held? How can we watch them?

Yes, the City will still hold Council meetings; however, the City Council will participate via teleconferencing. How to watch the meeting from home:

KCRT – Comcast Channel 28 or AT&T Uverse Channel 99

Livestream online at http://www.ci.richmond.ca.us/3178/KCRT-Live

2. Will public safety response still be the same? Will we have access to fire, police, and other emergency services?

Yes, all public safety departments will be available, with modified public access.

The Police Department lobby will NOT be open to the public. Please call 911 for emergency services, use the phone outside of the lobby doors, or contact our non-emergency line 510-233-1214 to file a report.

For more information about specific city departments, please visit Impact to City Services and Facilities.

3. Will public spaces (e.g. parks, walking trails) still be open/available?: All public spaces will remain open for use. When using them, please be mindful of your safety and maintaining social distance.

4. Will my garbage/recycling be picked up like usual?: Yes, all garbage, recycling, and other waste will still be picked up on the scheduled days.

5. Is street sweeping still happening during this time? Do we need to move our cars?

Yes, street sweeping is still occurring. Starting October 1, 2020, citations will be issued for vehicles not moved during their designated street sweeping times. Residents requiring special consideration can contact Sgt. D. Decious at 510-621-1578 for additional assistance.

6. How do I get student or senior meal services?: Health Information and Community Resources

7. Will paratransit services still be available?

Our Paratransit services are still available for seniors and disabled individuals.

In regards transit services (Bart & AC Transit), services remain unchanged

8. Will public transit still be available?: Yes, all public transit options (bus, train) will still be running their regular schedule. Please be mindful of social distancing when taking public transportation.

9. I own my business/work alone/work with limited people. Is my business affected by the “shelter-in-place” order?: Please visit https://www.coronavirus.cchealth.org/ for more information or reach out to the Contra Costa Health Services for more information about which businesses are affected by the Public Health Order.

10. Who do we contact if we have any other questions or concerns?: For any other questions or concerns about the “shelter-in-place” order, please visit https://www.coronavirus.cchealth.org/ for more information or reach out to the Contra Costa Health Services.

11. For questions about the COVID-19 shelter-in-place order?: Please call (844)-729-8410 available 8 am – 5 pm

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Engineering

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1. Can we have a STOP sign to control speeding?: A STOP sign is intended to determine the right of way at an intersection. It is a rather poor speed control device. Studies have shown that the effectiveness of a STOP sign on speed ranges from 100 to 150 feet from the sign, after which a vehicle will regain its original speed or an even faster one. If a speeding problem exists, the City can park a radar trailer on your street to inform drivers of their speed.

2. Can the City install speed humps in our neighborhood?: The set speed limit is based on standards found in the California Vehicle Code, except in residential and school areas where the limit is 25 mph. The Vehicle Code requires a radar study be performed in order to set the speed limit. Lowering a speed limit to slow down vehicles does not work. Drivers drive at a speed at which they feel comfortable. The City adopted the policy not to install speed humps along the roads classified as collector streets and major arterial.

3. Can we have "SLOW CHILDREN AT PLAY" signs?: The use of "SLOW CHILDREN AT PLAY" or similar signs is not allowed on public roads. The message on such signs gives the interpretation to children that it is acceptable to play in the street, which is contrary to the California Vehicle Code.

4. Why am I waiting at a red light when there is no cross-traffic?: It could be that the signal is malfunctioning. If you notice a signal that suddenly does not function as it has in the past, please call our office 510-307-8091 (or Public Works at 510-231-3011 for more urgent issues) so we can check it out. In many cases that is the only way we will know if something is wrong.

5. Can we have a crosswalk?: Marked crosswalks are typically placed at signalized or STOP-controlled intersections. The markings on the roadway have been shown to give pedestrians a false sense of security; therefore, not marking them leads pedestrians to be more careful.

6. Can you lower the speed limit so everyone will drive more slowly?: The set speed limit is based on standards found in the California Vehicle Code, except in residential and school areas where the limit is 25 mph. The Vehicle Code requires a radar study be performed in order to set the speed limit. Lowering a speed limit to slow down vehicles does not work. Drivers drive at a speed at which they feel comfortable. The reporting of speeding issues can be made collectively at the neighborhood council meeting and then forwarded to the Police Department for site monitoring.

7. I can't see down the street because Cars park right next to my driveway. What can be done?: The City can prohibit parking for various reasons. However, we hesitate to prohibit parking in residential areas due to the impact this might have on the fronting homeowner. For the situation of having the driveway being constantly blocked by vehicles, the City can review the site condition and install some red curbs near the driveway upon the verification of the site condition for approval.

8. I got a speeding ticket by a law enforcement officer using a radar gun on a City street. Is that legal?: The use of radar to determine speeds has specific rules. If you are issued a speeding ticket on a City Street or County road, contact the City Traffic Engineering Section at 510-307-8112 or the County Traffic Section at 925-313-2276 to ensure that a valid radar survey exists for that road. If you have questions regarding any of these subjects, please feel free to call our Traffic Engineering Section, Steven Tam, at 510-307-8112.

9. Can our street be closed off to divert all this traffic?: The City has closed some streets to divert traffic. A study must be completed to ensure that the diverted traffic does not adversely affect another neighborhood and to determine the traffic volumes and speeds. The neighborhood will also be involved so as to understand the consequences of a road closure.

10. Can the City install additional street lights in front of my house?: Most of the existing street light were installed based on the City adopted criteria or design guideline stated in the Municipal Codes. Currently, the City is also looking into the energy saving program that allows the City to use different types of luminaries. If the new policy is adopted, new luminaries will light up the street more uniformly with the resulting lighting brighter than the current conditions. For new street light request Engineering Services will review and investigate each request on a case-by-case basis. City street lights can be categorized into two types. Street light mounting that is supported by wooden poles are being maintained by PG&E, while the non-wooden pole street lights are maintained by the City’s electricians. For general Street light maintenance issues, please contact the Engineering Services at 510-307-8091 or the Public Works Department at 510-231-3011. Both Departments can handle any street light malfunction issues.

11. Who should I contact about potholes on my street?: Please call Public Works at 510-231-3008.

12. Who is responsible for repairing the sidewalk in front of my house?: Homeowners are responsible for the maintenance of the sidewalk, curb, and gutter. Please contact the Engineering Department at 510-307-8091 for more information about the necessary permits and license requirements for repairing concrete.

13. How can I get the curb in front of my house painted blue?: Please submit a copy of your California driver’s license or identification and DMV handicap documentation to the traffic engineer in the Engineering Department.

14. Who do I contact with questions about my water service?: Please call EBMUD at 866-403-2683.

15. Who do I contact with questions about garbage collection services?: Please call Richmond Sanitary at 510-262-1600.

16. Where can I find information about the Sewer Lateral Grant Program (the City’s program designed to help reimburse homeowners for the cost of repairing sewer laterals)?: Please visit the Wastewater Department’s sewer lateral grant page (http://www.ci.richmond.ca.us/index.aspx?NID=2130) for the application, guidelines, and additional information. Sewer Lateral Grant Program Page

17. How do I obtain a storm drainage map?: Contact the Engineering Services Department at 510-307-8091 or email engineering@ci.richmond.ca.us

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Enrollment and Registration

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1. Which Landlords are responsible for submitting a Property Enrollment form?: A Landlord must enroll with the Rent Board all of a Landlord’s Rental Units, except for those that are fully exempted from the provisions of the Richmond Fair Rent, Just Cause For Eviction, and Homeowner Protection Ordinance pursuant to Regulation 201.

2. Must the Property Enrollment form be submitted each year?: Once a property enrollment form has been submitted, it doesn’t need to be submitted again for until there is a change in (1) Ownership (mailing, address, phone number, email, etc.) or (2) change in Property Manager/ Agent, or a (3) change in the status of a rental unit. The form for updating a Property Enrollment form is known as an Amended Enrollment Form.

3. Which types of properties require the filing of Tenancy Registration forms?: Owners of any properties containing more than one dwelling unit on the parcel (2+ units) that were built prior to February 1, 1995, must complete a Tenancy Registration form for each Rental Unit on the property, with the exemption of Rental Units receiving governmental subsidy (e.g. Section 8, LIHTC, Section 202). Please note that properties containing a “single family home” built prior to February 1, 1995, with one or more additional unpermitted residential dwelling units are considered multi-unit properties and require the completion of Tenancy Registration forms.

4. What happens if I do not fill out a Property Enrollment form?: If a Landlord has failed to: (1) enroll a Rental Unit with the Rent Board as provided in Regulation 405; (2) register a tenancy in a Controlled Rental Unit with the Rent Board as provided in Regulation 402 and Regulation 405; and/or (3) file with the Board a notice of a rent increase, change in terms of tenancy, or termination of tenancy as provided in Regulation 603 and Regulation 1001, a Tenant in an unlawful detainer action may obtain from a Rent Program staff member a Certification stating that to the best of the knowledge of the Rent Board staff, the Rental Unit was not enrolled, the tenancy in a Controlled Rental Unit was not registered, and/or the required notice was not filed with the Rent Board in accordance with this Regulation, and assert the aforementioned noncompliance as an affirmative defense in an unlawful detainer action.

5. How often must a Landlord submit a Tenancy Registration form?: Landlords must submit a new Tenancy Registration form when there is a complete turnover of original occupants in a rental unit. Access the Tenancy Registration form at the following link: https://www.ci.richmond.ca.us/DocumentCenter/View/47797/Tenancy-Registration-Form-Fillable

6. I need to update my contact information (mailing address, phone number, email, etc.), how do I do that?: Please visit www.richmondrent.org/enroll and complete the Amended Property Enrollment form with the information you want to update.

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Environmental Initiatives

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1. Report a missed garbage pickup or request lost/damaged carts?: Call Richmond Sanitary Service (Republic Services) at (510) 262-7100.
[Learn more...]

2. Request on-call cleanups or bulky item pickups?: Call Richmond Sanitary Service (Republic Services) at (510) 262-7100.
[Learn more...]

3. Get a food scrap pail?: Pick up a food scrap pail at City Hall - 450 Civic Center Plaza. Mon-Fri. 9-5. Bring proof of residence in Richmond. Call (510) 620-6512 to learn more.
[Learn more...]

4. Dispose of fluorescent light bulbs, paint, and other hazardous wastes?: Take items to the Household Hazardous Waste Facility at 101 Pittsburg Avenue in Richmond. Open Wed-Sat from 9am-4pm. Visit www.RecycleMore.com to learn more, or call 1 (888) 412-9277.
[Learn More...]

5. Start green cart service?: Call Richmond Sanitary Service (Republic Services) at (510) 262-7100 to start green cart services at your home.
[Learn more...]

6. Get hazardous waste picked up at my home for free if I am a senior?: Free HHW and e-waste pickup services are available for persons age 60 or older and persons with disabilities through the West Contra Costa County HHW mobile collection program (Informacion sobre la recogida movil). Call 1-888-412-9277 for an appointment and eligibility details.
[Learn more...]

7. Get a free motor oil change kit?: Call Richmond Sanitary Service (Republic Services) at (510) 262-1655 for a free oil change kit or to schedule a pickup. You may also set out a full oil jug and filter bag in view of or near the curb on your scheduled oil collection day.
Learn more at www.RecycleMore.com

8. Dispose of household batteries?

Disposing of batteries in the garbage is illegal. Residents may drop off household batteries at 101 Pittsburg Avenue, Richmond, CA 94801. The facility is open Every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm (Closed Noon - 12:30 pm). Please bring proof of residency and drop-off items while in an enclosed vehicle.

Additionally, Richmond residents can dispose of batteries and other household hazardous waste at 7501 Schmidt Lane, El Cerrito, CA 94530. Open every Tuesday for HHW Disposal
from 8:00 am - 5:45 pm. Please bring proof of residency. Hazardous Waste | Richmond, CA - Official Website

[View City-wide locations]

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Finance

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1. When will I get paid for doing business with the City?: All invoices will be processed within 10 days from the date that accounts payable receives the invoices. Checks are run each week on Wednesday and released Friday for mailing (excluding holidays).

2. Who should I contact regarding status of an outstanding invoice?: The first point of contact should be the department to which you have provided services or goods. Please allow a turn around time of 20-30 days. Vendors should not call the accounts payable division directly. The city department will follow up with the accounts payable division.

3. What can I do to help expedite payment of an invoice?: Invoices should have a Purchase Order number, contact person and department. This will help identify the correct department for prompt processing. Invoice should also state the date service/goods were performed/received.

4. Can a vendor pick up a check from City Hall?: No, all checks are mailed to the vendor’s mailing address in the City’s financial system.

5. Do I contact the City of Richmond for garbage/refuse liens?: The City of Richmond does not release liens for garbage/refuse. Interested parties should contact Richmond Sanitary Service at 510-262-7141. Richmond Sanitary Service will provide the requested demand notice and will clear the lien once they receive payment.

6. How do I start a business?: If your business is located within the City limits of Richmond, contact the Business License Division at 510-620-6742 for a “How to get a Business License in the City of Richmond” brochure. The law requires businesses to obtain all the permits, licenses, and/or authorizations that pertain to that business. Various governing authorities have requirements that must be met.

7. Do you need a City of Richmond business license?

Yes, all businesses operating within the City limits of Richmond (including subcontractors and landlords) must have a business license as required under the City’s Municipal Code. Application forms are located on the Business License section of the City’s website.

The City has established various zoning regulations, which control the location and operation of all commercial activity. You should consider checking with the Planning Department at (510) 620-6705 before purchasing property or signing lease agreements.

8. How do I get a business license?: It’s easy. All you need to do is to come to the Finance Department at Richmond City Hall, 450 Civic Center Plaza, Second Floor. We will provide you with a “Business Start-up Checklist” and guide you through the process. You can also apply online through our online portal. Please visit eTRAKiT for more information. Or click this link to download and mail in an application to City of Richmond, 450 Civic Center Plaza, Richmond, CA 94804.

9. How much does it cost? When are monies due?: It varies depending on your business classification and gross receipts reported by your business. Please visit the Measure U landing page for more information. The full amount of the business license tax, zoning compliance fee and inspection fee are due at the time you submit the business license application if your business is located within Richmond City Limits. The SB-1186 mandated fee of $4 will be added to all business tax amounts due.

10. How do I pay a Business/Rental License online?

**On-line payments (Google Chrome) at eTRAKiT.

1st Time users must set-up an account

Under License Tab
Select search – If using license or business number NO SPACE/DASH
Select search – verify information & double click
Fee Tab indicates the amount due
Verify amount and select “Pay All Fees”

Enter credit card information and please retain confirmation page for your records. Your City of Richmond Business License Certificate will be mailed within 10 business days.

11. Do state licensed contractors require a license?: Definitely. Every person or business regulated by the Contractor’s State License Board must apply for a Richmond license and complete a Contractor’s License Statement, which is available from the Finance Department.

12. What are license monies used for?

These fees help pay for Police and Fire Protection as well as libraries, parks, streets and other public services.

It is mandated by the Richmond City Code that businesses be licensed. We are currently undertaking a massive project to license those businesses that have not complied with these requirements. Please be a partner with your fellow Esteemed Richmond Businesses and the citizens of Richmond.

If you are licensed and paid in full, we thank you.

If you are NOT licensed or paid in full, please come and see us.

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GIS

Show All Answers

1. How do I use the City's GIS website?: See the linked document Accessing and Using Richmond's GIS Website

2. How do I print off the GIS web applications?: See the linked document Printing Off the GIS Web Applications

3. How do I find a property?: See the linked document How To Do A Property Search

4. How do I find an aerial image?: See the linked document How to Find an Aerial Image

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Homelessness Q&A

Show All Answers

1. What does homelessness impacting the unsheltered community look like in the City of Richmond and what role does the City play in impacting it?

On October 28, 2018, the City of Richmond declared a shelter crisis, finding that the health and safety of unhoused people is threatened by a lack of shelter. According to the Contra Costa County Homeless Continuum of Care 2018 Annual Report, that year, 1,119 persons lost their housing in the City of Richmond and 333 unsheltered people slept and lived in Richmond after becoming homeless.

The Contra Costa County Homeless Continuum of Care 2018 Annual Report compiles data from the Point in Time Count (PIT), Service data from Homeless Management Information System (HMIS), and consumer surveys and interviews. However, getting an accurate count of the homeless population is challenging because of the mobility of the population, the cyclical nature of homelessness, and the barriers to interviewing the homeless population.

We often get the question, “What is the City doing to combat homelessness?”

In general, the city can impact homelessness in several ways:

1. Set policies that encourage the development of affordable and low income housing;

2. Set policies to prevent residents from going into homelessness;

3. Collaborate with the Contra Costa Counties Continuum of Care (COC) to advocate, partner, support and expand resources for the unhoused in Richmond.

4. Enact policies and programs that address homelessness.

Additionally, the City of Richmond declared a shelter crisis on October 28, 2018 finding that the health and safety of unhoused people is threatened by a lack of shelter and the City passed a resolution declaring homelessness a public health emergency. These two resolutions allow the City an expanded range of options when looking towards both long term and temporary solutions for homelessness. The City of Richmond does not have a Health and Human Services department, but the City contracts with Contra Costa County Department of Health, Housing and Human Services (H3) to provide a Coordinated Outreach Referral Engagement (C.O.R.E) team to connect unsheltered people to the County’s Continuum of Care, the range of services provided to help people stay housed and access housing and services.

2. What outreach services does Richmond offer to the unhoused?

The City of Richmond, like many cities, is experiencing the impacts of rising levels of homelessness. Many of these individuals lack the transportation, resources, and ability to access traditional services within the coordinated system of care. To improve access to services, Contra Costa County established a Coordinated Outreach Referral and Engagement Team (C.O.R.E). C.O.R.E assists the unsheltered with obtaining short term and long term housing, transportation, mental health referrals, food and health care.

In 2019 the City of Richmond partnered with the San Pablo Police Department and initiated a C.O.R.E Homeless Outreach Engagement Team dedicated to the Richmond/San Pablo area. The C.O.R.E team is part of a comprehensive strategy to focus on homelessness. C.O.R.E provides routine intervention services for the homeless population to include housing assistance, shelter placement, mental health wrap around services and health care. CORE is set up to work with city staff to provide outreach services to local encampments. The City of San Pablo provides cost sharing benefits and joint planning in this effort. A similar effort was spearheaded by Martinez and Pleasant Hill.

The benefits of a comprehensive strategy to focus on homelessness include:

• Identifying homeless individuals and gathering data about their specific problems (mental health issues, drug or alcohol dependencies, poverty, etc.). The outreach liaison can make referrals specific to these underlying problems.

• Identifying whether any homeless individuals have family members that can assist in supporting them.

• Engaging the unhoused and connecting them with housing, medical, economic, and mental health services.

• Building trust between the outreach liaison, city departments, and the homeless community in order to find solutions that do not solely focus on enforcement.

• Providing ongoing support to the chronically homeless.

C.O.R.E can be contacted by calling 211. Call 211 and speak with a dispatcher or leave a message regarding the individual who may need help, their location, and a call back number.

Currently, due to the pandemic, the CORE team is part of the essential outreach response to prevent the spread of coronavirus among the unhoused community. Initially C.O.R.E placed the most vulnerable populations into the Project Roomkey Hotels. Due to the impact of COVID-19, CORE has temporarily suspended its transportation services for the unhoused.

C.O.R.E teams are not designed for emergency response. For medical or other emergencies, dial 911.

If you have more questions about C.O.R.E functions, please contact or Captain Walle at awalle@richmondpd.net. If you have questions about the C.O.R.E contract, or the Homeless Taskforce, contact Crime Prevention Manager Michelle Milam at mmilam@richmondpd.net

3. What can I do if I see someone in a situation of homelessness needing services?

Call 211 or Text “HOPE” to 20121 to get the County’s services. There is free confidential service available 24/7. Callers will be matched and referred to appropriate programs for:

a. Basic needs services (meals, bathrooms, mail, laundry)

b. Lunch served bagged, to-go (2 to-go meals per person per day, 7 days/week)

c. Non-emergency medical attention

d. Mental health support

e. General help

f. Case management, Monday to Friday, from 9 am-3 pm

Please note C.O.R.E teams are not designed for emergency response. For medical or other emergencies, dial 911.

4. What if a homeless person is a minor?: If the person is between the ages of 14-24 and has run away, been thrown out, or are feeling unsafe in their home, there are free and voluntary services: 1-800-610-9400

5. What if a homeless person is not in the City of Richmond, but elsewhere in Contra Costa County?: Call 211 to be connected to the County’s services. Please note C.O.R.E teams are not designed for emergency response. For medical or other emergencies, dial 911.

6. What if someone needs resources to stay in their current housing?: The Richmond Rent Board has published a list of non-profit resources that provide financial assistance to help people maintain their housing. Please see page 3 and 4 for a list of these non-profits (http://www.ci.richmond.ca.us/DocumentCenter/View/41438/Updated-Landlord-and-Tenant-Resources-Directory-4-20-18?bidId=)

7. What is the Homeless Taskforce, what are the Taskforce priorities, and when does it meet?

In 2017, the City Council established a homeless taskforce. A series of nine policy findings were established by a collaborative team of city, community members, non-profits, and the county to provide direction to Richmond on how to impact homelessness. These policy findings are utilized to develop an annual list of priorities for the City of Richmond. The homeless taskforce is open to the public and meets on the last Thursday of every month. During the pandemic the taskforce meets at 1:00 pm on Zoom. To be added to the contact list please email Taskforce coordinator Michelle Milam at mmilam@richmondpd.net

Current Efforts:

• C.O.R.E Homeless Outreach Partnership with San Pablo – Richmond currently has expanded homeless outreach services to the unhoused community. In 2018 the city enacted a partnership with San Pablo, Contra Costa County Health, Housing and Homeless Services, to provide resource navigation and outreach to those experiencing homelessness. Services include intake, housing and shelter placement, health care referrals, mental health referrals, and during the pandemic assistance on COVID-19 testing in partnership with local healthcare providers.

• The City Council voted to establish a pilot interim sheltering project and directed the Planning department conducted an eight-month survey to study best practices on develop a Safe Parking Program. The City Council allocated $300K in lieu fees to launch the project, and is currently working to identify an appropriate site.

• The City has developed a partnership with the SOS (Safe Organized Spaces) Team. SOS is currently spearheading a Richmond Streets Team. The Streets Team employs unsheltered individuals to respond to homelessness and neighborhood streets impacted by dumping and encampments throughout Richmond. The team conducts neighborhood outreach with debris removal, sanitation and hygiene interventions, and community-building processes that lead to improved encampment conditions where unsheltered individuals reside and are supported to shelter-in-place.

8. What success have we seen in Richmond?

According to Contra Costa Homeless Continuum of Care (CoC) 2018 Annual Report:

• An average of 2,450 people were served each month.

• 58% of persons served in temporary and rapid rehousing exited to permanent housing.

• There was a 32% increase in U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development funding provided over three years.

• 97% retention rate in Permanent Supportive Housing programs

• 58% of CORE outreach consumers had a positive outcome (entered shelter, warming center and/or SUD treatment)

9. Does Richmond receive state and federal funding to impact homelessness?

Richmond like many smaller cities has to work within the County network to access state and federal funding for homeless services and projects. Large cities like Oakland and San Francisco receive a percentage of state and federal funding directly paid to those cities to provide services and housing to mitigate homelessness. These are largely demined by formula based on population.

In Richmond, our work has to collaborate with other entities, primarily the County to help increase and improve services for homeless individuals.

10. How has the COVID-19 pandemic impacted homeless services?

During the pandemic, the city will not be abating or moving homeless encampments with the exception of immediate health, safety and fire concerns. The City has made some provisions to increase access to hygiene facilities.

Portable Hand washing Units for the Unhoused

The City of Richmond received 6 temporary portable restroom and hand washing facilities throughout the city to promote the public health for the homeless community. The locations are as follows:

• Rydin Road (north of Central Avenue)

• Civic Center-Main Library & Auditorium

• GRIP - 165 22nd Street

• San Pablo Ave & Richmond Greenway

COVID-19 Emergency Housing For Unsheltered Community

In March the governor’s office announced that it would be providing support to local communities to help provide emergency housing for the homeless population. The purpose of the effort is to limit the exposure of the unsheltered community to COVID-19, particularly seniors and those with pre-existing conditions. Contra Costa County received the emergency funding from the state. Funding is limited and cannot house every person impacted.

In compliance with health officers recommendation to empty the shelters and congregate living facilities there have been two facilities identified in the City of Richmond by Contra Costa County Health, Housing and Homeless Services. The identified locations are the Courtyard, by Marriott, and the Sure Stay by Best Western.

The Marriott location will house clients from the Bay Area Rescue mission residents, some from Brookside Shelter and some from GRIP’s warming center. Individuals and families who will be occupying these rooms are from west county and considered high risk based on their age or health condition. GRIP will be the on-site provider and food vendor. The clients are not those who have tested positive for COVID-19. The county is providing testing to those in congregate living facilities.

For more information, visit Contra Costa Health Services’ website.

Additional Local Homelessness Resources

• Unsheltered individuals are currently exempt from the shelter in place order.

• View CCHS’ Coronavirus and Homelessness Frequently Asked Questions

• Healthcare for the Homeless

• CCHS Guidance for Those at High Risk

• Link to CC Health, Housing, and Homeless Services

• Supervisor John Gioia’s Food Distribution Site Map for Contra Costa County

• gripcares.org

• Help for the Unhoused

If you know someone in immediate need for homeless and housing services please contact 211 to reach the CORE Team. The City of Richmond and San Pablo have a CORE homeless outreach team to add staffing to the county efforts to serve the unhoused.

• Download PDF summary of resources

Local Rental and Eviction Resources

• City of Richmond Issues Supplemental Order Prohibiting Rent Increases and/or Evictions for Residential and Commercial Rental Units: The Director of Emergency Services issued a Supplemental Order, effective April 27, 2020, which extends the prohibition on certain types of evictions to commercial tenants and also prohibits rent increases on residential properties with more than one dwelling unit that were constructed before February 1, 1995 (including LIHTC properties) through May 31, 2020, or any extension of the local emergency

§ NOTE: restrictions on rent increases do not apply to properties with one dwelling unit on one parcel, permitted dwelling units constructed after February 1, 1995, Project-Based Section 8, Section 202, and Public Housing Units). Please contact the Rent Program at 510-234-RENT or rent@ci.richmond.ca.us if you have any questions about whether a unit is subject to the rent increase restrictions.

• Revised Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Rentals: What Richmond Tenants and Landlords Need to Know Fact Sheet (English & Spanish)

• Access the Letter Template for Tenants to Inform Landlords of Their Inability to Pay Rent Due to the Financial Impacts of COVID-19: English | Spanish

• If you have any questions about the Supplemental Order, please contact the Rent Program at 510-234-RENT(7368) or rent@ci.richmond.ca.us to speak with a Housing Counselor. For updates, visit their website

State of California’s Housing and Homeless Information

• Under the Governor’s Executive Order, through May 31, 2020, evictions related to non-payment of rent for COVID-19-related economic hardships have been halted. If you are financially impacted by COVID-19 and can’t pay your full rent, make sure to let your landlord know in writing no later than seven days after the rent is due, and save documentation as proof. Learn of other financial assistance.

• Many utility providers are not shutting off services due to non-payment. Check with the California Public Utilities Commission for more information.

• The Governor has also reached an agreement with financial institutions to give relief to people who can’t pay their mortgages as a result of COVID-19. California is placing a moratorium on foreclosure sales or evictions for 60 days.

• California Awards $100 Million to Cities, Counties and Continuums of Care to Help People Experiencing Homelessness During COVID-19 Pandemic

• Funding Formula Breakdown

• View more at https://covid19.ca.gov/housing-and-homelessness/

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Human Resources

Show All Answers

1. Find out when and where the Personnel Board Meeting is being held?: Personnel Board meeting information is available at Personnel Board | Richmond, CA - Official Website or by contacting the Human Resources Department at 510-620-6602.

2. Locate the Personnel Board Agendas and Minutes?: Personnel Board agendas and minutes are available at http://www.ci.richmond.ca.us/1090/Personnel-Board.

3. What is your address and hours?: The City of Richmond Human Resources Department is located on the third floor of City Hall at 450 Civic Center Plaza, Suite 310, Richmond, CA 94804. Business hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

4. Which bus line runs by City Hall?: Take AC Transit Bus # 72M to Macdonald Avenue and 25th Street. Walk north on 25th Street, right on Nevin Avenue, left on path at Civic Center Plaza to City Hall building. Visit https://www.actransit.org/# for more information and/or options.

5. What positions are currently available?: City of Richmond current job openings are available at City of Richmond Job Opportunities Page.

6. Where do I get an application?: City of Richmond applications are available for current positions that are presently vacant at City of Richmond Job Opportunities webpage.

7. Can I send you an interest card to keep on file?: A City of Richmond job interest card is available online at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/richmondca/jobInterestCards/categories. Place a check in the box next to each job category for which you would like to receive email notifications, click the 'Subscribe' button, fill out information, and then click the 'Submit' button.

8. Can I send you a resume?: No. Resumes are not accepted in lieu of applications. Only a City of Richmond application for a specific, vacant position will be considered for job openings unless otherwise specified. City of Richmond Job Opportunities

9. Can I fill out an application and put OPEN on the position line so that I can be considered for any job that becomes available?: Applications that have OPEN on the position line will not be accepted. Only applications for current vacant positions will be accepted. For current vacant jobs and opportunities, visit City of Richmond Job Opportunities

10. Can I apply online?: Yes. Applications for current open positions are available at City of Richmond Job Opportunities webpage.

11. Where do I send my application for a job posting?: City of Richmond job applications are only accepted online at City of Richmond Job Opportunities

12. Can I bring my application to the Human Resources Department, or can it be mailed?: City of Richmond job applications are only accepted online at City of Richmond Job Opportunities.

13. Can I fax or e-mail my application?: No. Applications for vacant positions must be submitted online at City of Richmond Job Opportunities.

14. Where do I obtain a typing certificate?: You may obtain a typing certificate at most temporary agencies. The City of Richmond Employment and Training department offers typing test by pre-arrangement only (phone number 510-307-8014). Please visit the Human Resources Department to receive a typing pass. We do not accept online typing certificates.

15. What are the guidelines for typing certificates?

Each certificate must be obtained within six (6) months of submission. Each certificate must include the following: name of the school, agency or institution conducting the testing; the equipment used (typewriter/computer); the gross and net number of words, and the number of errors; the signature of the individual responsible for the testing; and the testing date.

SPECIAL NOTE: On-line or website-generated typing certificates DO NOT fall within the specified guidelines as stipulated above, and will be rejected if submitted.

16. What is the hiring process?

All applications will be reviewed by the assigned Human Resources Analyst for completeness and accuracy by the closing date. Once determined that the applicant is eligible to move forward in the examination process, the applicant may be invited to an examination to determine skill level or to an interview. The results of the examination process are tabulated and the applicant placed on an employment list that is active for two (2) years after the date of establishment.

Prior to appointment, selected candidates may undergo a pre-employment background check. Depending on the position, components of the background may include Live Scan (fingerprinting), medical examination, drug screen, DMV driving history, credit check, education verification, polygraph, and/or a psychological examination.

All hires on or after October 18, 2021 must be fully vaccinated, including the booster, for COVID-19. new employees will be required to provide proof of full vaccination or have an approved medical or religious accommodation before employment may commence.

17. What types of benefits does the City offer?: Employee benefit information is available City of Richmond Employment Benefits webpage.

18. If I am applying for a Police Officer Trainee or Communications Dispatcher position, do you accept T-Scores from outside agencies?: Yes. T-Scores from outside agencies are accepted by the City of Richmond Human Resources Department as long as it was acquired within one (1) year. The T-Score documentation must be attached to your application upon submission.

19. What is the passing T-Score needed to submit with my application so that I will not have to take the P.O.S.T. exam again?: The minimum score required by the City of Richmond is 48.

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Information Technology

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1. How do I contact the GIS Division?: GIS Administrator 510-621-1298

2. View Website Highlights: For a quick sample of some of the website's highlights view the PDF.

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Intranet GIS

Show All Answers

1. How do I use the City's GIS website?: See the linked document Accessing and Using Richmond's GIS Website

2. How do I print off the GIS web applications?: See the linked document Printing Off the GIS Web Applications

3. How do I find a property?: See the linked document How To Do A Property Search

4. How do I find an aerial image?: See the linked document How to Find an Aerial Image

5. How do I connect to the GIS database?: See the linked document Connecting to the Geodatabase

6. How can I see a list of the layers in the GIS database?: See the linked document Geodatabase Contents

7. How do I extract block-level census data?: See the linked document Retrieving Census Data at Block Level

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Just Cause for Eviction FAQ

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1. What are Just Cause for Eviction Protections?

Under the Richmond Fair Rent, Just Cause for Eviction, and Homeowner Protection Ordinance (“the Rent Ordinance”), Residential Tenants subject to Just Cause for Eviction Protections can only be evicted if the Landlord has one or more of the following “Just Causes:”

At-Fault Evictions

Failure to Pay Rent
Breach of Lease
Nuisance
Failure to Give Access

No-Fault Evictions

Temporarily Vacate in Order to Undertake Substantial Repairs
Owner Move-In
Withdrawal from the Rental Market (Ellis Act)
Temporary Tenancy

2. Are all rentals in Richmond subject to Just Cause?

Nearly all residential rentals in the City of Richmond are subject to Just Cause, including those that are exempt from rent control. There are two exceptions, which act as protections for Homeowners:

If the property is the owner’s primary residence and they share a kitchen and/or bathroom with the Tenant
If the property is the owner’s primary residence and they rent a permitted Accessory Dwelling Unit (also known as an “in-law unit”) behind the main house

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Landlord FAQ

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1. How does this ordinance affect my ability to terminate a tenancy?

Landlords retain the ability to terminate a tenancy for several reasons, including: failing to pay rent, breaching the lease, undertaking substantial repairs, or using the unit as a primary residence. Relocation payments may be required in some instances.

On March 23, 2021, the Richmond City Council adopted Urgency Ordinance No. 02-21 ("Eviction Moratorium") establishing a temporary moratorium on certain evictions of residential tenants in Richmond through the local emergency and sixty (60) days thereafter.

2. I raised the rent on my property since July 21, 2015, what happens now?: Rents for rent controlled properties must be reset to the price paid on July 21, 2015, or the first payment on the initial lease if your tenant moved in after July 21, 2015. No refunds are required for rent increases before December 30, 2016.

3. How do I file notices of rent increases and termination of tenancy?

Landlords must submit written notices of any actions to all tenants, and file a copy with the Rent Board. Please visit the "Forms" webpage on this website to submit online forms and notices, or contact the Rent Program office for assistance.

4. How do I enroll as a landlord? Where can I find forms?

You must submit an online enrollment form to the Rent Program office. Enrollment and all other forms can be found on our website under the "Forms" webpage.

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Library

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1. Get a library card?: We offer library cards for children, youth, and adults. Please click here for more information.
More...

2. Find locations and hours?: Start here:
Locations and Hours

3. Renew items online and view my account?: Learn how to use your online account (Rosie) or click here to access your account.
Log in to Rosie.

4. Reserve or renew a book?: Click here for instructions on reserving and renewing books online with Rosie, our catalog.

5. Can I donate items to the Library?: The Friends of the Richmond Public Library accept and process donations on behalf of the Library. Please find more information about donating here.

6. See and pay fines or fees?: Learn how to view and pay online: Fines & Fees
More...

7. Borrow a WiFi hotspot, laptop, or Chromebook?: The Richmond Public Library has WiFi hotspots, PC laptops, and Chromebooks available for patrons to borrow. Please go here to read details and for the borrowing form.

8. Print a document at the Library?: You can print documents at the Library by using a Library computer or by submitting a document online - learn more.

9. FAX a document?: The Library does not have a FAX machine for public use. Check with a local copy shop for assistance.

10. Volunteer at the Library?: Please read about volunteering and employment at this link:
Jobs & Volunteering

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Parks and Landscaping

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1. How do I get a tree planted in front of my property?

Print out an Adopt-a-Tree application.
Fill out the form and mail it to:

Parks & Landscaping Division
3201 Leona Avenue
Richmond, CA 94804

Or call 510-847-5031

Adopt-A-Tree Application

2. How do I plant and then care for my new tree?: Please click link for planting and care instructions for your new tree. Planting & Care Instructions

3. What do I do if my tree needs to be trimmed?: If the tree in question is a city planted tree on city property call 510-231-3075 and request to be placed on the schedule for tree trimming.

4. What if a tree or tree branch damaged my property or is growing into my sewer or water line?

(1) If you believe a tree or branch has damaged your property please call 510-231-3075.

(2) When you hire a company to make repairs to your sewer or water line and all permits are obtained from the Engineering Division 510-307-8091 make sure pictures of the roots are taken and call 510-231-3075 to view the roots with the trench still open. You can then file a claim with the City Clerk's Office 510-620-6513 for reimbursement of costs.

5. How do I reserve a park?: Parks & Landscaping Division is the maintenance section for Parks. If you wish to reserve a park for a special occasions contact the Recreation and Parks Department for reservations.
Recreation and Parks Department

6. Trash in the Park?–Irrigation water running down the street?-Who do I call?

Parks & Landscaping Division
3201 Leona Avenue
Richmond, CA 94804

510-231-3004

7. What parks do we have and where are they located?: See the page for Parks and Public Facilities

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Police

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1. What is the Graffiti, Illegal Dumping and Blight Hotline?: Contact Code Enforcement at 510-965-4905.

2. How can I obtain a copy of a police report or a traffic accident report?: Call the Records Section of the Police Department at 510-620-6675 to confirm the report is available. Reports are usually ready for pickup in about 7 to 10 days and cost $21 per report. Certain offense reports may not be released if the case is under investigation or there will be a danger to any individual listed on the report. No juvenile information will be given out.

3. I will be out of town for a week. Will the police watch my home?: Yes. We call this a "vacation home" and we like to know about them. Please call the Dispatch Manager Michael Schlemmer at 510-620-6660 or email at mschlemmer@richmondpd.net to report your vacation home information.

4. How can I get my car out of impound?: First, you will need to provide us with the vehicle license plate number or VIN. If you are the owner, you must have a valid California driver’s license. If the vehicle is currently registered, under most circumstances, we can issue a release ($172 release fee). You will be responsible for towing and storage fees to the tow company. You may also be responsible for administrative fees to the Richmond Police Department. There are specific Vehicle Codes and Municipal Codes that allow the Richmond Police Department to charge up to $425.00, depending on the situation. If your vehicle was impounded for driving without a license, and had been previously towed for the same violation, it can be held in impound for a period of 30 days. You will have to contact the Records section at 510-620-6675 *1, and you may have to speak with a detective to obtain a release.

5. When does the Police Department do public fingerprinting?: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday - Live Scan by appointment only 8:00AM - 10:00am and 4:00PM - 6PM.

6. How can I get a police employee to speak to my group?: You may call the Crime Prevention Coordinator, Michelle Milam, at 510-620-6538.

7. How can I get a copy of my criminal record?: To obtain one’s criminal history record, you will need to make an appointment for Live Scan. The Live Scan fee is $96 (please note this fee may vary).The Live Scan form may be obtained at the Richmond Police Department Records Section. Criminal history/record results will be mailed directly to you by the Department of Justice.

8. How can I find out if I have a warrant?: We can only check warrants for the person inquiring. You may come into the Police Department at 1701 Regatta Blvd with identification to have Records personnel check. We no longer check warrant status by telephone.
To clear a warrant you can surrender yourself to any police department. You may be issued a citation with a court date or be held in jail with or without bail.

9. How can I check on the status of my criminal investigation?: By contacting the specific investigative unit at 510-620-6612 or the District Attorney’s Office at 510-374-3201.

10. How can I volunteer for the Richmond Police Department?: By becoming a V.I.P.O.R. (Volunteers In Policing Our Richmond). Call the Crime Prevention Coordinator, Michelle Milam, at 510-620-6538.

11. How do I start a Neighborhood Watch or obtain crime prevention information?: Contact the Crime Prevention Coordinator, Michelle Milam, at 510-620-6538. Ask for a citizen’s handbook which will teach you how Neighborhood Watch works and how you can become actively involved in the program.

12. Can I go on a police ride-along?: Persons eligible to participate in the ride-along program are: 1.Officials of the City of Richmond 2.District Attorneys 3.Potential police candidates for employment 4.Richmond residents or business owners 5.Students who reside or attend school within the city limits A Citizen Ride Along Program Record form must be filled out and submitted to the Watch Commander in order to schedule the ride-along. There are specific requirements which must be met, and an Agreement to Assume Certain Risks and Indemnify the Richmond Police Department must also be signed. For further information you may contact the Watch Commander at 510-620-1801.

13. Can I get involved in Police Explorers Program?: Explorer Program:
To become involved in the Explorer Program you can contact Explorer Program Coordinator Sergeant Melgoza at 510-620-1598. You must fill out an application and mail it to 1701 Regatta Blvd, Richmond, CA, attention Sergeant Melgoza.

14. How can I become involved in the Police Activities League?: For information on the Police Activities League please contact Officer Larry Lewis 510-620-6642.

15. How can I obtain a restraining order?: The Police Department does not handle the restraining order process. Our duty is to enforce the restraining orders after they have been issued by the court.
To obtain a restraining order contact the Contra Costa County Clerk’s Office in Richmond 510-374-3138 or Martinez 925-646-2950.

16. Where can I get information about my traffic citation?: Contact Bay Municipal Court, Traffic Division at 510-374-3174.

17. I need to find the phone number for a particular section/unit within the Police Department.: Most of the names and phone numbers for Police Department employees can be found on this website. You can also check the listing under the City of Richmond, Police Department, in the Government pages located in the front of your telephone book. If the number is not listed, you may call the Records Division of the Police Department at 510-620-6675 for assistance.

18. Where is the Police Department located?: 1701 Regatta Boulevard. Regatta Boulevard is off Marina Bay Parkway or Marina Way South.
Public parking is available in the lot located in front of the building.

19. What is the history of the Police Department?: The Richmond Police Department began operations in 1905 in Point Richmond and has been in the current location since the early 1950's and presently serves a diverse population of approximately 100,000.
Check our webpage for the "Century of Service" page.

20. How do I find out if someone has been arrested?: Call the Jail of the Richmond Police Department at 510-620-6680.
The Richmond City Jail does not have visiting hours.

21. What can I do about my noisy neighbors?: First, talk to your neighbor and ask for their cooperation. Report any disturbances to your beat officer. If you need immediate assistance call the Richmond Police Department at 510-233-1214.
You can also call the West County Conflict Resolution Panel, which is made up of trained community service volunteers. This is a FREE service and will assist you in working toward mutual resolutions. The phone number is 925-687-8844 extension 301.

22. How can I report criminal activity in my neighborhood?: For any life threatening emergencies, you should dial 9-1-1. For non- emergencies, you may call the Richmond Police Department at 233-1214 or the Neighborhood Services Team for your specific area at 620-6640. After notifying the Richmond Police Department, you may contact the following services:
Hate Crime:
Immediately report any threat or violent act upon a person, for the reasons of race, sexual orientation, age, religion, etc.
Abuse:
Adult Protective Services of Contra Costa County, 925-335-8780, when the welfare of an elder or dependent adult is endangered or Children’s Protective Services of Contra Costa County 510-374-3324.
Graffiti:
For graffiti removal offered by the City of Richmond call 231-3010.
Reckless drivers/speeders:
Report the license plate number or other identifying information of the vehicle or persons involved.
Illegally parked vehicles:
Under certain Richmond Municipal Codes and Vehicle Codes, the illegally parked vehicle can be cited and/or towed. Be prepared to supply identifying information about the vehicle.

23. How can I commend or complain about a Richmond Police Department employee?: For a commendation: Contact the employee's immediate Supervisor or submit the "Compliment an Officer" form found in the upper left column on the RPD Home page..
For a complaint: Submit a Service/Personnel Complaint Form. The form is available in the column at the upper left of the RPD Home page. This page must be printed out, filled in, and signed by the complainant. In the alternative, you may call the Office of Professional Accountability at 510-620-6664 or speak directly to the employee's supervisor.

24. How can I obtain neighborhood crime statistics?: By contacting your beat officer. Further information can be requested by contacting the Crime Analysis Office at 510-621-1708, Monday – Friday between 9:00 and 3:00.
On the police department website you can now check crime statistics by using the CrimeView link on the Police Department home page (upper left corner).

25. What is Megan’s Law and how can I find out if a sex offender lives in my neighborhood?: Megan's law makes it legal for the public to learn about registered sex offenders in the State of California and in their own community. The information can now be viewed online through the California Attorney General's Office. You can access this site through the Megan's Law link on the "Helpful Links" page of the Richmond PD website.

26. Where can I request a Richmond Police patch?: Due to security concerns following the 9/11 attacks, the Richmond Police Department no longer sells or trades patches with private citizens.

27. How do I report a missing person?: Any report made to the Police Department regarding a missing person, juvenile or adult, shall be accepted without delay. These reports may be made in person or by telephone regardless of whether the missing person resides in the City of Richmond, works in the City or was last seen in the City.

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Police CSI Unit

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1. With all the talk about DNA evidence, are fingerprints still important?: Yes. Fingerprint evidence is still very important. Crime Scene Investigators will process the scene using various types of fingerprint powder in an effort to locate latent fingerprints. Latent prints are fingerprints that are invisible to the eye until they are “developed” with an agent (i.e. the powder that allows them to stand out). The most common fingerprint powder we use is black bi-chromatic fingerprint powder. We also have magnetic and fluorescing powders (they glow under special light sources) and fuming agents that assist in developing fingerprints (Super Glue fuming). The fingerprints are then gently removed using a special adhesive tape and then placed onto a fingerprint card for examination.

2. Why do you have two different crime scene areas taped off at major crime scenes?: It is very important to maintain the integrity of a crime scene. During a major crime investigation (such as a homicide or shooting) Crime Scene Investigators need be as thorough as possible – they need to protect the scene and the evidence as well as create a safe zone to conduct their work. Outdoor crime scenes provide specific dilemmas to Crime Scene Investigators. Oftentimes an “outer perimeter” is taped off using yellow crime scene tape to keep the public out, protect the area and to protect any evidence contained within the area.
A second area, the “inner perimeter” keeps officers and other emergency personnel out of the identified crime scene and helps protect evidence from being destroyed. All persons entering and exiting must be logged in and out. Once the Crime Scene Investigator and the Detectives have finished their investigation the area is re-opened to the public.

3. What happens to the evidence you collect?: All evidence is taken to the Richmond Police Department and booked into our evidence room. Property Technicians log every item (to include found property) and store it appropriately (refrigerated if necessary).
Every effort is made to reunite evidence and found property with its lawful owner. However, evidence determined to be relevant to an ongoing criminal investigation cannot be released until it has been determined if any charges will be filed with the court and/or a detective authorizes the release.
Statutes of limitations also determine how long evidence can be stored. The longest an item can be kept is 99 years (homicide evidence) and the shortest is about 2 years. Every few years, the Property Technicians conduct thorough inventories of evidence and property. Evidence and found property that is unclaimed and in good condition is catalogued and sent to public auction. Any money derived from the sale comes back to the Police Department.

4. What is trace evidence and why is it important?: Trace evidence is extremely important. Trace evidence refers to small evidence, both in size and in quantity. These are minute particles (hairs, fibers, paint chips, glass shards, bullet fragments, chemical residues) that, upon further investigation, can be identified via laboratory analysis. A small speck of auto paint found on the clothing of a pedestrian struck and killed can potentially reveal the make, model, and year of the suspect vehicle. Once the vehicle is located, a search of the vehicle can reveal small fibers and hairs that can be identified via laboratory analysis as belonging to the clothing worn by the victim. Trace evidence can also provide DNA evidence through human hair left at a crime scene or on the body of a rape victim. Just because it is small does not mean that it is not important!

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Public Works

Show All Answers

1. When will my street get swept?: To find your street on a map enlarge the Street Sweeping Map

2. How Do I Report:

Dead Animals:
• SPCA (Animal Control) - 925-608-8400
• California Dept of Fish and Wildlife - 707-428-2002

Flooding - Veolia Water - 510-412-2001
For: 1. Street Light Outage 2. Graffiti 3. Pothole 4. Downed Tree 5. Tree that needs trimming

Enter Report with COR Connect

3. Who Do I Call For:: Water - EBMUD - 866-403-2683
Garbage - Richmond Sanitary Service - 510-262-7100
Sewer Problems - Engineering - 510-307-8091

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Purchasing

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1. How Can I Do Business With the City of Richmond?: The City of Richmond has recently implemented an online purchasing management system. This system allows vendors to register online, receive automated service and commodity solicitations via email, and eventually allow vendors to submit bids electronically. Most RFQ's, informal and formal solicitations will be processed through our online system. More

2. Are All Purchases Made by the Purchasing Division?: No, we have a decentralized purchasing function. Some commodities are bought by purchasing staff, some by the other departments. We can direct you to the appropriate person for your commodity or service.

3. How Does the Purchasing Process Work?: Purchases over $5,000 and less than $24,999 are awarded based on an informal competitive quote process. Generally, we request quotes from at least three suppliers. Award will be made to the lowest responsive, responsible supplier: the vendor who meets the specifications, terms and conditions, including delivery date, stated, and offers the lowest price. The only time we do not award to the lowest price is when the quote does not meet our specifications or the quoter is not responsible. The resultant purchase order is a public record.
Purchases over $25,000 follow a formal procedure. These Invitations for Bids (IFB) and Requests for Proposals (RFP) will be mailed to each supplier on the Bid List for that particular commodity or service. The bids are opened publicly at a specified time and place and City Council approves the bid award at a public meeting.

4. Do I Need a Business License?: Yes, if you are located in, or perform services within, city limits or if you deliver products in company owned vehicles. Call the Business Licenses Division at (510) 620-6742 if you want more information.

5. May I bid If I Don’t Carry the Brand Listed On the Bid?: Yes, if the RFB specifies a brand name or equal, you may offer an alternative or equal brand. It is a good idea to discuss your alternative proposal with us before submitting it. Or equal products will be evaluated after bids are received.

6. How Does the City Make Payments?: Most goods and services are procured utilizing a purchase order system. Standard City payment terms are net 30 days. The City issues checks weekly, with payments mailed each Friday. The City department acquiring the goods and services must initially authorize payment. To expedite payment, put purchase order numbers on all invoices, shipping tags, and other correspondence relevant to the order. The City pays by invoice, not by statement. As the payer of City obligations, it is our goal to make payments to vendors in a timely and efficient manner.

7. What Should I Do If I’m Confused?: You may find our procedures, or requests for bids and proposals, confusing. Give us a call; we will gladly answer any questions on specifications, bid or award procedures, and purchasing methods in general.

8. Do Good Service and Quality Products Matter or Are Decisions Made Solely on the Basis of Price?

Our mandate is to obtain the necessary quantity and quality at the lowest price possible for every purchase. We attempt to develop specifications which clearly define the quality required.

Awarding to the lowest responsive, responsible bidder limits our ability to develop business relationships with suppliers. Because of this, we maintain an arms length association with suppliers. This is one of the many ways we try to minimize corruption in public procurement. Our goal is to treat all suppliers the same.

You may expend considerable time and money in presenting your product to an individual department in the hopes of making a sale. If you do this, remember the purchase may eventually be made by competitive bid and be awarded to the lowest responsive, responsible bidder.

9. What Are the City’s Delivery Requirements?: Deliveries in almost all cases are required to be made to us F.O.B. Destination. Failure to meet specified delivery dates may cause cancellation of the order, liquidated damages, and removal from bid list.
NEVER SHIP MATERIALS OR INITIATE ANY SERVICES, WITHOUT A PURCHASE ORDER NUMBER!

10. When Are Change Orders Allowed?: A purchase order is our contract with you. Any change to that contract must be in writing.

11. How Are the City’s Emergency Purchases Handled?: There are times during emergencies when an order must be placed by City personnel after hours or on weekends when the Purchasing Division is normally closed. Emergency purchases may be made for items which are immediately necessary for the continued operation of the division involved or which are immediately necessary for the preservation of life or property. Rest assured, you will be paid for anything you sell to City employees under these conditions.

12. How Is Public Purchasing Different From Private Purchasing?: The public procurement process, and the people involved, are subject to complete public accountability, regarding the proper expenditure of taxpayers’ money. Public purchasing must guarantee fair and open competition with equal opportunities for every supplier. A unique characteristic of public purchasing is the underlying principle that prices are not as critical as fairness and impartiality in obtaining them.

13. When are Sales Calls Allowed?: We are open for business from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. We urge you to make a definite appointment before coming to the Purchasing Division.

14. Who Can Answer My Questions?: Ofelia Alvarez, Senior Buyer (510) 620-6699
Rose Gibson, Buyer II (510) 620-6732
Allison Bolduc, Buyer II (510) 307-8017

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Recreation

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1. How can I get information on swimming lessons?: Please View the Activites Guide for current information or call the Recreation Department at (510) 620-6788.

2. How do I register for recreation program activities?: Please call the Recreation Department office at 510-620-6793 for information. You may also stop by the Recreation main office at 3230 Macdonald Avenue or visit https://apm.activecommunities.com/richmond to create an account and enroll online.

3. How can I get information on the Richmond Auditorium (Richmond Memorial Convention Center)?: The Auditorium is a multi functional facility is available for rent and has rooms of varying size to fit your needs. Capacity for a meeting of 20 or a concert of over 3,000. Please call for more information or to arrange a tour. (510) 620-6793.

4. Does the City of Richmond have facilities available to rent for special occasions?: The City of Richmond has several facilities available to rent for meetings, receptions, parties, etc. Please contact the Recreation Department office at 510-620-6793 for rental information.

5. What are the dates available for a rental and how much does it cost?: A facility rental application has to be completed before availability or pricing can be determined since all types of rentals cannot be accommodated at any given site. Rental rates will be based on type of event, number of hours of rental, number of people at the function, etc. All rentals are charged a refundable deposit, fees for the rental of the facility, plus additional costs such as staffing, tables, chairs, etc. Please note that a certificate of liability insurance is required for all rentals. For more rental information, please call (510) 620-6793

6. Where are the parks located in the City of Richmond?: View a list of parks under Parks and Public Facilities. Richmond Parks

7. Who do I call to report about problems at the parks?: If you are calling to report about weeds, faulty sprinklers, etc,. please call the Parks and Landscaping Division at 510-231-3004. If you have concerns about activities happening at a park, please contact the Recreation Department at 510-620-6793. For any serious or illegal activities, please contact the Richmond Police Department at 510-620-6642.

8. Who do I contact for issues concerning city trees?: Please contact the Parks and Landscaping Division at 510-231-3004.

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Rent Program

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1. What is the purpose of the Richmond Rent Ordinance and the Rent Program?

The Richmond Fair Rent, Just Cause for Eviction, and Homeowner Protection Ordinance ("Rent Ordinance") was established by a majority of Richmond voters in November 2016. The law established the Rent Program as the agency to administer and enforce the Rent Ordinance.

The Rent Program opened to the public in January 2017. The mission of the Rent Ordinance and the Rent Program is to promote neighborhood and community stability, healthy housing, and affordability for Richmond tenants by regulating Landlord and Tenant matters relating to rents and evictions, while maintaining a Landlord’s right to a fair return.

Fair Rent, Just Cause for Eviction and Homeowner Protection Ordinance

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2. What responsibilities does a landlord have to be in compliance with the Richmond Rent Program?

All landlords in the City of Richmond must complete a Property Enrollment Form for each property with at least one Rental Unit and pay the associated Rental Housing Fee. In addition, landlords of rent-controlled ("Fully Covered") Rental Units must also complete a Tenancy Registration Form for each tenancy in a Fully Covered Unit.

Please visit the Enrollment and Registration page to access more information and forms: http://www.ci.richmond.ca.us/3364/Richmond-Rent-Program

Please visit the Fees page for more information about the Residential Rental Housing Fee and other City fees applicable to Rental Housing in the City of Richmond: http://www.ci.richmond.ca.us/3679/Fees

3. What services does the Rent Program provide?: The Rent Program provides an array of services to the community relating to the Rent Ordinance. Some of these services include: counseling and educational services for the public on the rights and responsibilities of tenants and landlords, mediation services, referrals to community legal service providers, targeted outreach to Tenants and Landlords involved in Just Cause Eviction, administration of the Rent Adjustment Petition Process, community education workshops, and facilitating Richmond Rent Board meetings.

4. Are there any costs associated with Rent Program services?: Generally, no. The Rent Program does not directly charge for daily services provided to the community. However, the Rent Program is funded by the Residential Rental Housing Fee charged to owners of rental units.

5. Can the Rent Program provide me with legal advice or and/or advocacy?: It is a common misconception that the Rent Program can provide legal advice or advocates to individuals. Since the Rent Program is a government agency, we are not able to advocate for any member of the public, provide any form of legal assistance to either Landlord or Tenant, or refer individuals to specific private attorneys or law firms. However, the Rent Program does advocate for policies that strengthen the mission of the Rent Ordinance. In addition, we normally contract with non-profit legal agencies in the Bay Area to assist Richmond community members and provide direct legal referrals for matters relating to the Rent Ordinance.

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Rent Program FAQ-Spanish Only

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1. ¿Cuál es el propósito de la Ordenanza de Renta de Richmond y el Programa de Renta?

La Ordenanza de Renta Justa, Causa Justa de Desalojo y Protección al Propietario de Richmond ("Ordenanza de Renta") fue establecida por mayoría de votantes de Richmond en noviembre de 2016. La ley estableció el Programa de Renta como la agencia para administrar y hacer cumplir la Ordenanza de Renta.

El Programa de Renta se abrió al público en enero de 2017. La misión de la Ordenanza de Renta y el Programa de Renta es promover la estabilidad del vecindario y la comunidad, viviendas saludables y asequibilidad para los inquilinos de Richmond mientras regulando asuntos de Propietario y Inquilino relacionados con rentas y desalojos, manteniendo al mismo tiempo el derecho del Propietario a una devolución justa.

2. ¿Qué responsabilidades tiene un Propietario para cumplir con el Programa de Renta?

Todos los Propietarios en la Ciudad de Richmond deben completar un formulario de Inscripción de Propiedad para cada propiedad con por lo menos una Unidad de Renta y pagar la Tarifa de Renta de Residencia asociada. Además, los Propietarios de Unidades de Renta Controladas (totalmente cubiertas) también deben completar un Formulario de Registro de Arrendamiento por cada arrendamiento en una Unidad totalmente cubierta.

Por favor, visite la página de Registro e Inscripción para acceder a más información y formularios: http://www.ci.richmond.ca.us/3657/Enrollment-and-Registration

Por favor, visite la página de Tarifas para obtener más información sobre la Tarifa de Renta de Residencia y otras tarifas de la ciudad aplicables a la Renta de Residencia en la ciudad de Richmond: http://www.ci.richmond.ca.us/3679/Fees

3. ¿Qué servicios ofrece el Programa de Renta?: El Programa de Renta proporciona una serie de servicios a la comunidad relacionados con la Ordenanza de Renta. Algunos de estos servicios incluyen: asesoramiento y servicios educativos para el público sobre los derechos y responsabilidades de inquilinos y propietarios, servicios de mediación, referencias a proveedores de servicios legales de la comunidad, alcance dirigido a inquilinos y propietarios involucrados en el Desalojo por Causa Justa, administración del Proceso de Petición de Ajuste de Renta, talleres de educación de la comunidad y facilitación de las reuniones de la Junta de Renta de Richmond.

4. ¿Hay algún costo asociado con los servicios del Programa de Renta?: Generalmente no, el Programa de Renta no cobra por los servicios prestados a la comunidad; sin embargo, el Programa de Renta está financiado por la Tarifa de Renta de Residencia que se cobra a los propietarios de las unidades de renta.

5. ¿Puede el Programa de Renta proporcionarme asesoramiento legal y/o defensa?: Es un concepto erróneo común que el Programa de Renta puede proporcionar asesoramiento legal o defensa a las personas. Dado que el Programa de Renta es una agencia gubernamental, no podemos abogar por ningún miembro del público, proveer ninguna forma de asistencia legal ni al Propietario ni al Inquilino, ni referir a los individuos a abogados privados o bufetes de abogados específicos. Sin embargo, el Programa de Renta sí aboga por políticas que fortalezcan la misión de la Ordenanza de Renta. Además, normalmente contratamos agencias legales sin fines de lucro en el Área de la Bahía para ayudar a los miembros de la comunidad de Richmond y proporcionar referencias legales directas para asuntos relacionados con la Ordenanza de Renta.

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Richmond Works

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1. I am looking for a job, what do I do?: Please visit RichmondWORKS at 330 25th Street
Mon-Thur 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Friday 9:00 am - 2:30 pm

2. What is Richmond YouthWORKS?: Richmond YouthWORKS is a part of the City of Richmond's Employment & Training Department. We focus on youth development, employment and training for high school aged youth and young adults.

3. Can I take a typing test at RichmondWORKS?: Yes! Please check the calendar on the Employment & Training home page for a list dates. This is a free service.

4. How do I file an Unemployment Insurance Claim?: Please call 1-800-300-5616 to file an Unemployment Insurance Claim.

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Tenant FAQ

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1. Is my home rent controlled?: Multi-unit homes (including duplexes) built before 1995 are rent controlled. Single family homes, certain small second units (“granny units”), and rental of a room within a home are NOT controlled. Please contact us if you think your unit is rent controlled and you are paying more than the maximum rent.

2. Does my home qualify for Just Cause for Evictions protections?

Yes. All long-term renters qualify for Just Cause for Eviction protections BUT landlords can still terminate a lease if there is a “just cause,” including failure to pay rent, breaching the lease, or repairs. Relocation payments may be required in some instances.

3. What if I moved in after July 21, 2015? What rent should I be paying?: Your base rent is what you paid the first month on your lease. You are responsible for the base rent plus all annual CPI increases, if your landlord gives your proper notice.

4. What if my landlord is charging me more than the Maximum Allowable Rent?: Contact the Rent Program and submit an official complaint form (available on the website and at the Rent Program offices). Maximum Allowable Rents will only be enforceable after December 30, 2016.

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Transportation

Show All Answers

1. Apply for a Parking Permit?: Richmond Get a Permit

2. Report a Parking Violation?

Police Department Parking Enforcement (510) 620-1216
Abandoned Vehicles (510) 620-6644

3. Find an Electric Vehicle Charging Station?: Find a charging station

4. How to apply for Parklet Permit: Take a look at the Application Checklist (PDF).

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Submit a Public Records Request Form to the City Clerk's office through the City of Richmond's NextRequest portal - to submit a request click here.

For more information on records requests click here.

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Rent Program FAQ-Spanish Only

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Richmond Works

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