FAQs • Seaside, CA • CivicEngage

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Abandoned Vehicles

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1. Why was my vehicle tagged?: Vehicles can be tagged in response to a neighborhood complaint or when observed parked more than 72 hours by a peace officer or the Vehicle Abatement Officer.
Vehicles moved for a short distance to satisfy the 72-hour limit will not be recognized as complying with the law. The vehicle will be considered as being stored on public property and the registered owner will be liable for towing and storage.

2. How long can I park on the public street?: You may park on the public street for 72 consecutive hours (3 days).

3. Why was my car towed without a notice?: If the vehicle is creating a hazard it can towed immediately. It can also be towed if there are prior offenses. California Vehicle Code 22651(o) Vehicles with expired registration over 6 months authorizes the Vehicle Abatement Officer to tow and store the vehicle without notice.

4. How can I get my vehicle back?: Contact the Seaside Police Department at 831-899-6748. You need to know the date when the vehicle was towed and must have valid identification. You must pay a fee in order to receive a release for the vehicle. Upon retrieving vehicle from the storage facility they may charge an additional storage fee. If you have no desire to retrieve your vehicle, but have personal items, you may retrieve your personal items, however, no parts attached to the vehicle (i.e., radio, battery, hubcaps, etc.) can be removed. If you have any questions contact the Records Division at (831)899-6748. Police Department

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Animal Control

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1. Do I have to get my Dog Licensed with the City?: Yes. Every person owning, having charge, care, control or custody over any dog, four months and older, must purchase a license and tag for the dog. The tag must be affixed to a collar or harness in a conspicuous fashion.

2. How much does a Dog License and Tag cost?

The dog license fees vary depending on whether or not the dog has been spayed / neutered. A license can be renewed for one to three years depending on the rabies expiration date. There is a considerable reduction in fees for spayed / neutered dogs.

Dog owners 55 years of age or older pay a reduced fee if their dog is spayed / neutered.

To see current fees please check the City's Fee Schedule.

3. How do I apply for a Dog License?: The dog owner will need to apply in person at the Police Department counter, located at 440 Harcourt Avenue (underneath City Hall). Please bring the dog’s current rabies vaccination certificate. The City cannot issue a dog license or tag without a rabies vaccination certificate.

4. How do I renew my Dog License?: Dog licenses are good for one to three years depending on your rabies certificate. If your dog’s rabies vaccination is good for three years, you may choose to license the dog for three years. All expire on the day of your rabies vaccination expiration.

The City will send out renewal notices around April 1st of each year. The renewal license fees are due May 1st and become delinquent on June 1st. The delinquency fee is on the City's . Fee Schedule

5. Lost dog tag?: To request a replacement for a lost dog tag, you will need to go to the Police Department, located at 440 Harcourt Avenue (underneath City Hall). There is a small fee, which can be found on the City's Fee Schedule.

6. Is any dog exempt from the license fee?

Yes. No fee will be charged for the issuance of a license for a service dog. This does not include Emotional Support Animals.

Emotional support animals, comfort animals, and therapy dogs are not service animals under Title II and Title III of the ADA. Other species of animals, whether wild or domestic, trained or untrained, are not considered service animals either. The work or tasks performed by a service animal must be directly related to the individual's disability. It does not matter if a person has a note from a doctor that states that the person has a disability and needs to have the animal for emotional support. A doctor's letter does not turn an animal into a service animal.

Dogs kept, harbored, or maintained by owners who are nonresidents of the city and are staying within the city for 15 days or less do not require licensing. Dogs brought into the city for the purpose of participating in any dog show, exhibition, or competition do not require licensing.

For more information refer to the link below:
Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals

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Business License

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1. Who needs to apply for a Business License?: Any person transacting or carrying on any business within the city limits of Seaside are required to obtain a City Business License. It is unlawful for a person to operate any business in the city without first having procured a license from the city.

Defined – Person means all domestic and foreign corporations, associations, syndicates, joint stock corporations, partnerships of every kind, clubs, Massachusetts, business or common law trusts, societies, and individuals transacting and carrying on any business in the city.

2. When should an application be submitted?: An application must be submitted prior to the commencement of any business activity within the city limits. Upon approval of the application and payment of the prescribed tax, the City of Seaside will issue a Business License.

3. Where can I obtain a Business License application?: There are a few options for obtaining a Business License application for contractors and other business types. You will need to view our
Business license Application page.

4. How are fees calculated?: Business license fees are based on the type of business and the amount of gross receipts the business generates as prescribed in Title 5 of the Seaside Municipal Code. To learn how fees are calculated view our Fee Calculated page.

5. Can I file for an exemption?: Nonprofit or charitable organizations may file an exemption from business operation tax by filing a certified statement with the City stating the facts upon which exemption is claimed, along with the standard business license application.

If the City deems the organization exempt, a letter of exemption will be issued.

6. When do I renew my license?: Business Licenses are valid July 1st through June 30th. Renewal forms are due by July 31st and the related business license tax is due by August 31st of each year. The City mails courtesy renewal notices; however, non-receipt of the renewal form does not relieve the renewal applicant of any liability or responsibility for completing and filing the form on time.

7. Is non-compliance penalized?: Failure to file a renewal form by July 31st will result in a late filing fee of fifteen dollars ($15).

Failure to pay business operations taxes by August 31st will result in a penalty of 50% of the business operations tax due.

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Council / Manager Plan

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1. What is the Council / Manager Plan?: The council-manager plan is a form of government developed in the United States to help communities to overcome weaknesses in local government structure, and to cope with increasingly difficult and complicated urban problems, by providing for an executive appointed by and continuously responsible to a popularly elected council. In little more than half a century, it has become the most popular form of local government in the United States, and is regarded as the greatest American contribution to the improvement of government.

2. Why is it called the “Council / Manager Plan” rather than the “Manager Plan”?: To make clear and to emphasize the fact that all real power is in the City Council; the City Manager has responsibility, not independent power.
Mayor and City Council

3. How does it differ from other forms of government?: The most important difference is that it provides City Council the opportunity to select an extremely strong City Manager based on his/her training, knowledge and experience rather than his/her political popularity that can in turn recruit a highly professional administrative staff.
Mayor and City Council

4. In what ways is the City Council so “extremely strong”?: It is stronger than any other form of government because it not only determines policy by adopting budgets and levying taxes, as all City Councils do, but also, and especially because, it hires and oversees a City Manager as chief administrative office to carry out its programs.
Mayor and City Council

5. What are the City Manager’s powers?: His so-called “powers” are really responsibilities. He appoints department heads, serves as the City Council’s chief advisor, prepares the budget for the City Council’s consideration, and brings to the city the significant element of professional knowledge of municipal administration. Mayor and City Council

6. How and to what extent does the City Manager participate in policy determination?: The City Manager makes recommendations to the City Council on many matters, which require Council action, but his opinions and recommendations are seldom released to newspapers in advance of Council consideration. The City Council may or may not adopt his recommendations and may change or modify them. The City Manager is bound by whatever action the Council takes. When the City Council has acted affirmatively on a policy or program, the City Manager, as an administrative duty, may join the Council in communicating and “selling” the policy to the Community. Mayor and City Council

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Fingerprinting

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1. I need to be fingerprinted for a new job. Does the Seaside Police Department do fingerprinting?: No. We do not do fingerprinting for the general public at this time. To find a location to be Livescanned (fingerprinted) contact the California Department of Justice. You can find out more information at: Office of the Attorney General Livescan

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Fire Department

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1. Do you offer CPR training to the public?: At this time, the Seaside Fire Department offers group CPR training to the public on a quarterly basis.

Please contact Firefighter Johnny Fanene at 831-899-6790 for further information or to sign up for an upcoming course. For additional local agencies that offer CPR training please visit our CPR Training page.

2. Will you install baby / child safety seats?: Yes. Please call 831-899-6790 to schedule an appointment for the installation.

3. My neighbor's weeds are very overgrown and I’m afraid they've become a fire hazard. Will you check this out?: Weed abatement issues are currently handled by the City of Seaside’s Code Enforcement Department. They can be reached at 831-899-6731 and 831-899-6732.

4. Do you issue burn permits for yard waste?: No. The City of Seaside does not issue burn permits. Although some jurisdictions may seasonally allow outside burning, due to drought conditions and the increase of fire danger, CAL FIRE has suspended all burn permits within the State Responsibility Area and Local Responsibility Areas under contract with CAL FIRE, in San Benito and Monterey Counties. This suspension takes effect April 14, 2015 and bans all residential outdoor burning of landscape debris including branches and leaves. More information on the ban can be found on the CAL FIRE Declares Burn Ban (PDF).

5. Do you issue beach burn permits for bonfires, lanterns or fireworks?: No. Beaches in Seaside are under the jurisdiction of the California State Parks, and they prohibit fires of any kind on the beaches.

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General

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1. How do I apply for a dog license?: The dog owner will need to apply in person at the Police Department counter, located at 440 Harcourt Avenue (underneath City Hall). Please bring the dog’s current rabies vaccination certificate. The City cannot issue a dog license or tag without a rabies vaccination certificate.

2. Frequently Asked Question about the community?: answer

3. Frequently Asked Question about the community?: answer

4. Frequently Asked Question about the community?: answer

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Impounded Vehicles

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1. What is a 30 day impound?: Vehicle Code section 14602.6(a) authorizes the impounding of a vehicle "Whenever a peace officer determines that a person was driving a vehicle while his or her driving privilege was suspended or revoked or without ever having been issued a driver license, the peace officer may…cause the removal and seizure of that vehicle…" "A vehicle so impounded shall be impounded for 30 days."

2. What if my license is only expired?: Though a vehicle may be towed and stored if you are stopped while driving on an expired license, it will not be impounded for 30 days.

3. What if I have a license, but I'm stopped while driving a vehicle out of my class?: Though the vehicle may be towed in this situation it will not be impounded for 30 days. Example: If you are stopped while driving a motorcycle and have a valid driver license without a motorcycle endorsement the motorcycle may be towed and stored however, not impounded.

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Plastic Bag Ordinance

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1. When did it become effective?: A 1-year “grace period” was incorporated into the ordinance to allow retail establishments time to make necessary arrangements for compliance and to expend current stocks of plastic single-use carry-out bags. The Ordinance was adopted on August 21, 2014 and became enforceable September 19, 2015.

2. What is the purpose of this ordinance?: To prohibit retailers from providing thin film plastic single use carry out bags, free recycled paper or free reusable bags that end up as liter or waste. These bags were typically only used one time and then were discarded.

3. How is a reusable bag defined?: A “reusable bag” is defined as a bag with handles that is specifically designed and manufactured to be reused at least 125 times and that is either (1) made of cloth or other washable fabric, or, (2) made of durable, recyclable material that is at least 4 mils thick that can be cleaned or disinfected at least 125 times. A “Reusable Bag” may be made of recyclable plastic such as high density polyethylene (HDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), or polypropylene.

4. What is considered a “single-use carry-out bag”?: “Single-use carry-out bags” are defined in the Ordinance as a bag, other than a reusable bag or recycled paper bag, provided at the check stand, cash register, point of sale, or other point of departure for the purpose of transporting food or merchandise out of the Retail Establishment.

5. What bags are not included in this?: Exempt from this ordinance are bags that do not have handles, such as those that are typically used for meat and produce within grocery stores.

6. Who does the plastic bag ordinance apply to?: These regulations apply to retail establishments that sell perishable or nonperishable goods including, but not limited to, clothing, food, and personal items but would not apply to restaurants and take-out food establishments. The Adopted Ordinance applies to “farmers’ markets” and other special events (as defined).

7. Why did the City adopt this ban?: The purpose of the Ordinance was to reduce litter and protect the natural resources of Seaside. Due to their shape and weight, these bags became windblown litter if discarded and were frequently found along local roadways, in storm drainage facilities and in local open spaces such as wetlands and riparian corridors, and ultimately found their way to the Monterey Bay and the ocean.

8. What is considered a recycled paper bag?: A “recycled paper bag” is defined as a bag that contains no old growth fiber and a minimum of 40% post-consumer recycled content, is 100% recyclable, and has printed in a highly visible manner on the outside of the bag the words “Reusable” and “Recyclable”, the name and location of the manufacturer, and the percentage of post-consumer recycled content.

9. Is there a charge for providing a reusable or recyclable bag?: Under the ordinance, retail establishments are required to charge a minimum of 10 cents ($0.10) to provide a recycled paper bag or reusable bag to a customer, with exceptions made for customers who participate in certain governmental or non-profit programs.

10. Why is there a fee?: The fee discourages the use of single use disposable bags and encourages reusable and recyclable bags.

11. Does the City keep the fee for purchase of a bag?: The City does not keep the fee. The fee is paid to the retailer to offset the cost of purchasing the bags.

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Police

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1. How can I formally compliment a Seaside Police Department employee?: You can fill out our COMPLIMENT form and turn it in to any on-duty supervisor at the Seaside Police Department. You may also mail in your completed form to 440 Harcourt Ave, Seaside CA, 93955. Click the link: /DocumentCenter/View/11918

2. How can I file a complaint against a Seaside Police Department employee?

You can contact any on-duty supervisor by phone, at 831-899-6748, or fill out a COMPLAINT form and turn it in to a supervisor at 440 Harcourt Ave, Seaside CA, 93955. You may also mail in your completed form (ATTN: Watch Commander). Click the link here for the form: /DocumentCenter/View/11920

3. How do I file a report?: If it is an emergency dial 911. If you are at our Police Station we will have an officer come in to take your report. We will need to know some very basic things: briefly what happened, where it happened (the address, if possible) and when it happened. Or you can call Dispatch Center and the officer will come to you. Their phone number is 831-394-6811. Keep in mind that you will not be speaking with an officer when you call dispatch. The dispatchers are Monterey County employees located in Salinas so they will have very little information they can share with you.

4. How do I obtain a copy of a police report?: Contact us in person or call (831)899-6748. We will release the report as California code allows. It takes 7 to 10 days to process each request. You will need to have a current driver's license or ID card with your picture to verify your identity. For accident reports you can go to www.veripicreports.com to obtain a copy of your report for a fee.

5. What are the fees for police reports?: There is no fee for a crime report. There is a fee for traffic collision reports. You can obtain a traffic collision report at the Police Department or by going to: www.veripicreports.com. To see the fees for accident reports go to the
CIty Fee Schedule.

6. How do I obtain a copy of a collision report?: You can pick up a copy at the Police Department or online at www.veripicreports.com.
You should call in advance to make sure the report is ready. There is a fee to obtain a collision report. Refer to the City's fee schedule for current fees. Current Fee Schedule

7. How do I get a towed vehicle released?

You will need a vehicle release to get your car out of the storage yard. You will have to show us your valid driver license and the vehicle's current registration. There is a fee for vehicle releases, which varies depending on the reason for towing. If your vehicle was stolen there is no fee. Current fees can be found on the City's Fee Schedule.

If your vehicle was towed because the driver was unlicensed or suspended, then the vehicle stays in storage for 30 days at your expense (Vehicle Code section 14602.6). You can appeal the 30 day impound by submitting a written request to:

Seaside Police Department
Attention: Deputy Chief Louis Lumpkin
440 Harcourt Avenue
Seaside, CA 93955 Fee Schedule

8. What is the fee for a fix it ticket sign off?: We can sign it off if the violation is correctable, but there is a fee. Current fees can be found on the City's Fee Schedule.

9. I have lost my traffic ticket. What do I do now?: Contact the Superior Court of Monterey County, Marina Division at 831-883-5300 if you have lost your traffic ticket.

10. Where can I pay my parking ticket?: You can pay your parking ticket directly to:
City of Seaside
Parking Enforcement Center
PO Box 5010
San Ramon, CA 94583
Or call them at 1-866-534-4607

11. Do I need a license for my bicycle?: You do not need a license for your bicycle.

12. How do I check for sex offenders in my area?: Visit the Megan's Law website to view information about sex registrants. Megan's Law Website

13. How do I obtain a clearance letter for immigration?: Visit the Department of Justice website to search for VISA/IMMIGRATION information and follow their instructions.
Fee Schedule.

14. How do I check for crime in my neighborhood?: The City's utilizes a website that logs all of the crime statistics in Seaside. Go to: CrimeReports.

15. What is the Authorization for Trespassing Enforcement Form?

The Seaside Police Department Authorization for Trespassing Enforcement Form is available for businesses which do not operate on a 24 hours basis, as well as for private properties which are permanently closed to the public. The form gives the police department the authority to enforce trespassing laws on private property while the owner/management is not present, per California Penal Code 602(o). The form is valid for a period of either one month, or one year.

One Month: When a business/property is normally open for business, but enforcement is requested during closed hours. This form will need to be resubmitted every 30 days.

One Year: When a business/property is completely closed to the public (No Trespassing signs are required). This form will need to be resubmitted every year.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE AUTHORIZATION FOR TRESPASSING ENFORCEMENT FORM

Please email the completed form to Sergeant Jorge Enriquez at: jenriquez@ci.seaside.ca.us or you can also drop it off at the Seaside Police Department addressed to Sergeant Enriquez.

Also, please contact Sergeant Jorge Enriquez with any questions or concerns by emailing him at: jenriquez@ci.seaside.ca.us

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Public Works

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1. The sanitary sewer in front of our house is overflowing, whom do I call?: Call Public Works Department at (831) 899-6825 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. For after hours for non emergency concerns, please call our Public Works Hotline at (831) 899-6828. Immediate concerns such as sewer spills, fallen trees, or limbs, nonworking traffic signals, clogged or over flowing sewer lines, after normal business hours, please call (831) 394-6811 the call will be answered by an emergency dispatcher.

2. The sidewalks are cracked or uneven and need repair, who do I call?: Call Public Works Department at (831) 899-6825 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. For after hours for non emergency concerns, please call our Public Works Hotline at (831) 899-6828. Immediate concerns such as sewer spills, fallen trees, or limbs, nonworking traffic signals, clogged or over flowing sewer lines, after normal business hours, please call (831) 394-6811 the call will be answered by an emergency dispatcher.

3. There is a dangerous pothole in the street, who should I call?: All of the above can be taken care of by calling the Public Works Department at 891-899-6825 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. All other times please call 891-394-6811 for immediate concerns, such as, sewer spills, fallen trees, or limbs, nonworking traffic signals, clogged or over flowing sewer lines, after normal business hours, the call will be answered by an emergency dispatcher.

4. Where can I make a park reservation?: Park reservations are on a first-serve basis. Reservations can be made at City Hall Resource Management Department located at 440 Harcourt Avenue. For more information regarding the rates, access this parks resource: Parks and Facilities.

5. Does the City provide electricity at the park?: The City does not provide electricity for park patrons.

6. How do I report a streetlight that is not working?: Report any streetlight outages to Pacific Gas and Electric Company by calling 800-743-5000 or by completing forms by accessing Pacific Gas and Electric Company.

7. I noticed graffiti along a fence, who should I call?: Call Public Works Department at (831) 899-6825 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. For after hours for non-emergency concerns, please call our Public Works Hotline at (831) 899-6828. Immediate concerns such as sewer spills, fallen trees, or limbs, nonworking traffic signals, clogged or over flowing sewer lines, after normal business hours, please call (831) 394-6811 the call will be answered by an emergency dispatcher.

8. Do I need a permit to trim or remove my tree?: Yes, a Tree Permit is needed to trim, remove, or plant a tree within the City. Tree permits are processed at City Hall located at 440 Harcourt Avenue.

9. Whom can I call to pick up my garbage or have complaints related to my trash pickup?: Waste Management is the company who pick up garbage within the City. If you should have any problems please contact them at 831-384-5000.

10. Do I need a permit to place a dumpster in the street?: Yes, an Encroachment Permit is required for placement of a dumpster in the city’s right-of-way. Please come in to City hall to speak with an Engineer in order to determine the best location on the street.

11. Do I need a permit when work is to be performed in the sidewalk or in the street?: Yes, an Encroachment Permit is required for any work within the right-of-way. For more information regarding Encroachment Permits, please call 831-899-6727.

12. Who do I call to report a water leak?: The City of Seaside maintains the Seaside Municipal Water System, which is bounded by La Salle Avenue, Highland Street, Hilby Avenue and Mescal Street. For a map see the Water System page. If there should be a water leak within this area please contact the Public Works Department at 831-899-6715. Should the water leak occur outside these boundaries please contact California American Water Company at 831-373-3051.
Water Page

13. Can the city determine my property line?: No, this is not a service offered by the City. A licensed Survey Engineer can accurately determine a property line.

14. Is there any place I can call if I am having a dispute with my neighbor?: The Mediator of Monterey County will be able to assist you please call 831-649-6219 or 831-424-4694.

15. Who maintains Canyon Del Rey (Highway 218) and the signals at Fremont/CDR, Del Monte/CDR, Hilby/CDR, Sonoma/CDR and Fremont/Monterey Road?: The California State Transportation Department (Caltrans) owns and maintains Highway 218 and the signals listed.

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Radar Trailer

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1. What is a Mobile Radar Trailer?: The Mobile Radar Trailer (MRT) is a trailer mounted radar unit designed to be placed at a specific location for 1) Gathering traffic flow information or, 2) Advising approaching motorists of their current speed. The MRT has a lighted message board that indicates the speed of approaching vehicles. Speeds at or below the computer-set speed will be indicated with yellow lights. Speeds over the set speed will be indicated with flashing red lights. Additionally, the on-board computer can be utilized to record traffic flows for future analysis.

2. Can I get a ticket from the Mobile Radar Trailer (MRT)?: No. The MRT is designed to either gather data or inform motorists of their speed. It is not capable of recording specific vehicle information for use in issuing citations. However, a police officer working in conjunction with the MRT could issue a citation, so always drive safely within the speed limit. Remember, the prima facie (actual, unless otherwise posted) speed limit for all streets is 25 mph.

3. How do I request the Mobile Radar Trailer (MRT) for a specific location?: Currently, the best way to request the MRT is to contact the Patrol Commander through the Records Division at 831-899-6748, or by attending the Traffic Advisory Committee meetings held the third Tuesday of each month at City Hall. Bear in mind that the MRT cannot be placed in certain locations based on street width and/or availability of space.

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SMWS Webinar Questions & Answers

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1. What was the cause of water released on Juarez Street without any warning? Will the new design address these issues?: After checking with Operations staff, the recent maintenance work at Well 4 required draining the well column, so they had to flush the well and take a water sample to confirm it was still clean before putting the well back in service. This discharged a lot of water to the street but was a one-time event.

2. Will other areas such as the golf course and Seaside East be included in the feasibility study?: Yes. We are looking at other sites. The golf course has many existing wells that limit the possible location for this new well. The previous studies limited the analysis to in-town and have since expanded to the former Fort Ord. The further distance to the new well site will require a longer transmission pipe and increased project costs. Final recommendations will not be made to City Council until all the sites have been reviewed.

3. Construction as well as continuous lights and noise will cause a disturbance and impact the residents in the area.: Efforts will be made to reduce impacts as much as possible. Sound barriers that would muffle the sound would be required for work near residences. Notice will be provided to residents If night work is required. Final mitigations and controls would be worked out once a site is selected. Keep in mind that the long-term benefit ( a reliable water supply) outweighs the short-term impacts.

4. Will community input be allowed on the siting?: Yes. Community input is being received during this presentation. Additional opportunities will be provided when the Council is asked to review the location for the construction of the test well. Prior to the well being drilled, there will be a CEQA initial study which will allow an additional opportunity for the public to comment.

5. Can the well at MLK School of the Arts be revived?: The well at this site has been inactive for at least 15 years and is installed in a very shallow part of the aquifer (south of the Ord Terrace fault). If this well was demolished and a new well was constructed in its place it would probably not meet the target production rate and an additional well would need to be constructed to meet the peak day water demands.

6. Will the drilling and pumping impact the nearby neighbor's water quality or quantity?: No. The source of the water is the same aquifer. Once the new well was outfitted and placed into service the residents closer to the well would be receiving groundwater from the new well instead of the current one.

7. Will water storage tanks be required at the well site?: No. The SMWS has water storage tanks behind Mescal Street. If the site is not collocated with well #4 then a small storage tank with a few hundred gallons of sodium hypochlorite will be stored in the well house for injection into the drinking water system. Sodium hypochlorite is bleach, a common disinfectant used at very low dosages to prevent bacterial growth in water distribution pipes.

8. What are the exact engineering criteria for choosing a site?: The criteria were listed in the presentation slides. The main hydrogeological criteria include being in the deepest part of the Santa Margarita formation and close to the SMWS to reduce connection distances and increased costs.

9. How old is well #4?: Well #4 was drilled in January 2001 so it is 21 years old.

10. Is the added supply needed for existing customers?: Yes. The well is required by state law which requires a secondary water source which SMWS currently does not have. The primary purpose of the well is to serve the existing customers.

11. Can the City use eminent domain to acquire a site on land that it does not currently own?: Condemning a property through eminent domain would be the last resort. Using eminent domain still requires purchasing the subject property, so finding a site with a willing seller is always preferred.

12. What type of noise can be expected from a well once in operation?: The well will have an electric motor located inside the building which reduces the sound level outside the building.

13. Are sites near Fort Ord possible for collocating?: Collocating a well by the current well #4 would limit the operational flexibility. Two wells at a single site would be operated singly (one at a time). It is preferred that the wells be 1,000 feet apart so they can run concurrently if needed.

14. Why is Ord Terrace school property not being considered as a possible location above City Parks?: School property is not owned by the City and would require the City to negotiate an easement with the School District for its use.

15. How large will the structure be?: The fenced yard could be as small as 50x50 feet. The structure itself would be about the size of a one-car garage at 20X20 feet and about 18 feet tall.

16. How long will a test well be operating as an exploratory well?: Once a site is selected it will take approximately a month to install and approximately a month to test the well. After testing the well is capped and locked until the rest of the equipment is installed.

17. Will a transcript of the presentation be available?: The presentation was recorded and is available on the City’s YouTube page and SMWS webpage.

18. How many customers does SMWS currently serve?: The system has just under 800 connections, mostly single-family residences.

19. How is the water tested for chlorine levels?: Water samples are collected periodically at the well, the water storage tanks, and at various locations within the distribution system. The most frequent testing is for chlorine presence and bacteria absence. Testing for other contaminants occurs at set intervals.

20. The wells at General Jim Moore Blvd and Coe Avenue are loud and have bright lights. Will the municipal well also be loud and illuminated?: The wells used for aquifer storage and recovery don’t have sound enclosures, so you can hear those motors when they are running. They are not located next to residences, so there is less concern about their noise levels. Those sites have security lighting to discourage vandalism. Well sites in town have lights on motion detectors.

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Traffic Advisory Committee

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1. Why won’t stop signs reduce speeds, deter cut through traffic, and make streets safer to walk, bike and play on?: When implemented for the wrong reasons, stop signs create more problems than they solve. When stop signs are placed on one street, speeds tend to increase on the intersecting street. In these instances, motorists assume they no longer have to drive as cautiously though the intersection, because the other car is required to stop.

2. Under what conditions are a stop sign beneficial?: The MUTCD lists the situations and conditions, or “warrants,” where stop signs may be appropriate. In general, they should be used where traffic volumes, restricted sightlines or the assignment of right-of-way is required.

3. What is a warrant?: A warrant is a set of conditions, listed in the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, which must be met in order to post traffic signs or signals.

4. Speeding is a terrible problem on my street. Can I get speed bumps installed in front of my house?: Speed bumps result in an increased risk of personal injury to unsuspecting motorists and bicyclists. Traffic studies show that speed bumps only lower the speed of traffic directly adjacent to the bump. The average speed on streets where speed bumps are installed remains unchanged.

5. What fees am I responsible for?: Applications submitted to the Traffic Advisory Committee will need to be accompanied by the application fee. If the request is approved, fees will be collected prior to installation of any approved requests that directly benefits the applicant, such as limited timed parking, white zones, etc. Prior to any required maintenance of the improvement, the same fee will apply and be billed to the applicant.

6. How do I submit a request to the Traffic Advisory Committee?: To submit a request to the Traffic Advisory Committee a Traffic Advisory Committee Request Application will need to be completed and returned with appropriate application fees.

7. I submitted an application to the Traffic Advisory Committee, now what?: The Traffic Advisory Committee will add the request to an upcoming agenda. The applicant will be notified when their item has been added to an agenda and may be present if they choose to ask or answer any questions pertaining to the request. All TAC’s action will be forwarded for City Council consideration at their next scheduled meeting.

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Transient Occupancy Tax

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1. How do I report and remit transient occupancy tax collections?: Transient Occupancy Tax is due to the City on or before the last day of the month following the close of each calendar month. Along with payment, the hotel / motel must submit a monthly Transient Occupancy Tax and Tourism Improvement District Form, which summarizes monthly rent charges, exemptions, transient occupancy tax due and tourism improvement district assessments. Transient Occupancy Tax Form (PDF)

2. Does the City offer transient occupancy tax exemptions?: The following transients are exempt from paying transient occupancy tax, if at the time rent is collected the transient submits a Claim for Exemption. Please find more details on the Transient Occupancy Tax Exemptions page.

3. Are there penalties for delinquent payments?: Hotels / Motels failing to remit Transient Occupancy Tax by the due date will be assessed a penalty of 10% of the amount of tax. Delinquent remittances not paid on or before thirty (30) days following the date the remittance first became delinquent will be assessed a second delinquency penalty of 10% of the amount of the tax.

In addition to the assessed penalties the hotel / motel will be charged interest at the rate of 1/2 of 1% per month on the amount of tax due until paid.

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Utility User’s Tax

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1. What is utility user’s tax?: The City of Seaside charges a 6% Utility User’s Tax on gas, electricity, water, telephone and cable television bills. The revenue is used to support City services and programs, such as, police and fire, recreation services and street and park maintenance.

2. Can I file for an exemption of the utility user’s tax?: Utility users, who are sixty-five years of age or older and responsible for the utility service bills, are eligible for exemption from the utility user’s tax. To apply for the exemption, complete the Utility User Tax Exemption Certificate and return it to the Finance Department, at 440 Harcourt Avenue. Utility User Tax Exemption Certificate (PDF)

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Water Service

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1. Does the City of Seaside provide water service to my home / business?: The City of Seaside provides water services to approximately 750 Seaside residents and/or businesses. To find out more please view our Water Service Area page.

2. What are the water rates?: Customers pay a monthly meter charge based on their meter size and a monthly consumption charge based on their account designation and units used. Meter and consumption charges are adjusted annually on January 1st according to the increase in the Consumer Price Index for San Francisco-Oakland-San, Jose, California. View our Current Rates (PDF).

3. Does the City offer automatic bill payment?: Yes, to sign up to have your monthly water bill paid automatically, complete the Automatic Bill Payment Enrollment Form and submit it to Finance at:
440 Harcourt Avenue
Seaside, CA 93955

For additional information, contact the Finance Department at 831-899-6715. Automatic Bill Payment Enrollment Form (PDF)

4. If the City does not provide water service to my home / business, then who does?: Marina Coast Water District (MCWD) services homes in the Seaside Highlands Subdivision and any other property within the former Fort Ord area of Seaside. For more information, contact MCWD at 831-384-6131.

California American Water services all other homes in Seaside. For more information, contact California American Water at 831-646-3287.

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Water System Questions

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1. How big is the City’s water system?: The Seaside Municipal Water System (SMWS) serves about 800 connections. The service area extends from La Salle Avenue south to Hilby Avenue, and from Yosemite Street east to General Jim Moore Blvd. Other portions of the City are served by California American Water (Cal Am) or by Marina Coast Water District.

2. Where does our water come from?: SMWS provides groundwater from the Seaside Subbasin of the Salinas Valley Groundwater Basin.

3. Does SMWS have rights to this water?: Yes. The Seaside Subbasin is an adjudicated water source, so we and the other pumpers have legal rights to the water and allocated shares of the available supply.

4. How many water wells does the system have?: SMWS has one active water well, well no. 4, drilled in 2001. The back-up well, well no. 3, failed several years ago after almost 50-years in service.

5. Do we need to have two wells?: Yes. Public water systems need to be reliable. For systems using groundwater, that means you need two or more wells, with the ability to meet customer demands when the highest-producing well is out of service for maintenance.

6. What do we do today if the well needs maintenance?: SMWS has a mutual aid agreement with Cal Am, and during maintenance periods we purchase water from the Cal Am. It costs more to purchase water than to pump it ourselves, so we only use this during emergencies. For example, the pump on Well no. 4 needed repair work during July 2022, and the price SMWS paid to CalAm was $17.65 per hcf versus our cost of $10.60 per hcf. CalAm rates are anticipated to increase in the next year (and years to come) to address desalination, recycled water, and other costs associated with augmenting CalAm’s water supply.

7. How long do wells last?: Wells can last 40 to 80 years. Well no. 3 lasted about 50 years. Electrical components (motors and control panels) require periodic upgrades and repairs.

8. Is there a reason why the webinar was scheduled in the midst of the holidays?: In order to combat the misinformation that was put out by the community on the Seaside Municipal Water System back-up well, we wanted to ensure people received the most accurate information as soon as possible.

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Well Construction Questions

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1. How long does it take to construct a well?: Drilling and testing a deep well takes about two months. Outfitting the well is an additional 6- to 9-months of on-site construction.

2. How big of a work area is needed?: The drilling equipment takes up an area of about 200-ft x 100-ft.

3. What impact will the drilling have on nearby residents?: The drilling operation should not cause ground vibrations, but there will be noise and traffic impacts around the work area. Portions of the work require 24-hour operations with construction lights on-site.

4. Will the work site be fenced off?: Yes, the work site will be within a construction fence.

5. Can the state help finance this new well?: The City can apply for grants and or low interest loans from the state.

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Well Site Questions

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1. How big of a site is needed?: A municipal water well needs a 100-ft x 100-ft control area, but the fenced yard can be smaller than that. The well must also meet certain setbacks from other types of pipelines which limit where the well can be placed. The well and associated equipment fit in a 1-car garage, but you need space to accommodate occasional well maintenance vehicles.

2. What part of town is being considered for a well?: The deepest, best-producing portion of the groundwater basin is north of San Pablo Avenue. Site being considered are Havana-Soliz Park, Lincoln-Cunningham Park (northeast portion), Ord Terrace School (in an easement area), former Fort Ord near golf course pond, and Seaside East near Bureau of Land Management (BLM) boundary

3. Does the next well have to be located in a City park?: Not necessarily, but it needs to be on City-owned land or land the City can reasonably obtain.

4. Can the new well be located where the last one was located?: Possibly. Well no. 4 (the active well) was drilled next to Well no. 3. When two wells are co-located, you can only run one at a time. If we can separate them by about 1,000-feet, we can run them concurrently.

5. Can the new well be located on the former Fort Ord and not in a residential area?: Areas on the former Fort Ord are being considered. Many municipal wells are located in residential areas.

6. If SMWS hasn’t decided on a well location yet, why were surveyors in the City parks?: Part of the site evaluations involves locating utilities and steep slopes that might rule out the use of those sites.

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Live Edit

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Abandoned Vehicles

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Animal Control

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Business License

▼
Council / Manager Plan

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Fingerprinting

▼
Fire Department

▼
General

▼
Impounded Vehicles

▼
Plastic Bag Ordinance

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Police

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Public Works

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Radar Trailer

▼
SMWS Webinar Questions & Answers

▼
Traffic Advisory Committee

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Transient Occupancy Tax

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Utility User’s Tax

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Water Service

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Water System Questions

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Well Construction Questions

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Well Site Questions