Engineering FAQ's
Fire Department FAQ's
Front Counter FAQ's
Parks & Recreation FAQ's
Planning Department FAQ's
Police Department FAQ's
Public Works Department FAQ's
Waste Water Treatment Plant FAQ's
 
 
 
 

ENGINEERING FAQ's
Do I need an encroachment permit?
A permit and fees are required for all new construction work in the city. Sometimes a permit is issued without fees if the work is on deteriorated or damaged facilities that encroach on City property, such as sidewalks, roads, sewer lines, etc. Contact City Hall (265-2496) for the current fees related to your project.
 
How do I get a new City Map?
Historical District Maps are $15 or $20 for maps printed on posterboard.
 
I have a sewer or water leak, what do I do?
The City delivers water to and through the water meter. Any leak between the water meter and your house or business property is the responsibility of the property owner. If the leak occurs at the water meter or beyond the meter into the street, it is the City's responsibility to repair it.For sewer problems the City maintains the main lines. It is the responsibility of the property owner to maintain their sewer lateral (the line connecting your home to the main line). You should note that your lateral may cross other properties and extend into the street, but repair is still your responsibility.Public Works Staff will gladly work with you to determine what is private and what is City maintained.
 
What are the standards for sewer & water systems and roads?
The City uses the standard CalTrans specifications for roads, drainage and sidewalks. It uses the NID specifications for water distribution system and the City has its own standards for sewer collection system.
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FIRE DEPARTMENT FAQ's
Is today a burn day?
The phone number to call for burn day information is 274-7928.
 
Where can I get a burn permit?
Burn Permits are available free of charge at the following locations:City Hall; 317 Broad St, Nevada City; Monday - Thursay; 8:00am-12:00pm & 1:00pm-5:00pmORStation 54; 201 Providence Mine Rd., Nevada CityMonday - Friday; 8:00am-5:00pm
 
Where do I go to pay fire department fees?
Fees will only be collected at City Hall.
 
Do I live in the City or the County?
If your home has a one, two or three digit address and you have a 95959 zip code, you live in the incorporated area of the City of Nevada City. If you have a Nevada City address with a 5 digit house number, you live in the county. There are a small number of exceptions to this. If you are unsure, please call City Hall and we will help you.
 
How can I donate to the Nevada City Fire Department?
Tax Deductible donations can be made to the Firefighters Association of Nevada City. Mailed to:Firefighters AssociationPO Box 1943Nevada City, CA 95959
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FRONT COUNTER FAQ's
How often should I receive a Utility Bill?
Water and Sewer bills are sent our bi-monthly; in arrears. (ie: When you receive your bill in January the charges are for November and December use.)
 
Do you accept debit/credit cards? Can I pay over the phone or via the City's website?
Water bills can be payed with a credit card.  Click here for more information on how to do that.  All other payments; recreation program fees, parking tickets, etc must be payed with cash or check.
 
Do I need a business license?
Yes, if you are conducting business within City limits. To obtain a Business License, you will need to file an Application at City Hall, along with applicable fees.
 
Where do I get a burn permit or dog license?
These are both handled at City Hall. Office hours are Monday - Thursday; 8am-12pm and 1-5pm
 
How do I set up a new utility account?
If you have just moved into a new residence or are a new renter, contact City Hall.
 
How do I report a Public Works emergency?
During business hours (Monday - Thursday; 8:00am-12:00pm & 1:00pm-5:00pm), call City Hall (265-2496), the front counter staff will dispatch a Public Works employee to investigate your emergency or concern. Evenings and weekends call the Police Dept. at 265-2626 and they will contact a Public Works employee.
 
How do I get a copy of City Hall records?
Come to City Hall and complete a Records Request. Copies are 25¢ each.
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PARKS & RECREATION FAQ's
How do I register for swim lessons?
Generally registration for swim lessons is held on Wednesday evenings in May. Registration takes place at the Nevada City Pool and is on a first come, first served basis. Checking the website regularly or calling the department at 265-2496 x129, is the best way to get exact dates and times.
 
I would like to rent the Veteran's Building, who do I call?
Call the Parks & Recreation Department at 265-2496 x129 for availability and details. You can also check our on-line calendar for availability, but dates must be confirmed with Parks & Recreation Staff.
 
Rental Information for Pioneer Park
Call the Parks & Recreation Department at 265-2496 x129 for availability and details. You can also check our on-line calendar for availability, but dates must be confirmed with Parks & Recreation Staff.
 
I would like to rent the Nevada City Pool for a private party.
Parks & Recreation employees will begin taking reservations in May of each year. Call the swimming pool at 265-8223 and swimming pool employees will schedule your event and confirm details.
 
I want to sign my child up for a soccer league (or little league or another sport).
The City Parks & Recreation Department does not operate any youth or adult sports leagues. There are links to area leagues on our website, or you can call our office at 265-2496 x129 and we will help you.
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PLANNING DEPARMENT FAQ's
I'm opening a business in Nevada City. Do I need a sign permit?
Yes. Sign permits are required in Nevada City. However, if the property is located in the downtown Historical District or within the "OP", Office and Professional Zoning District, the sign has to be approved by the Planning Commission. There are application standards for signs within and outside the Historical District.
 
I need to remove a tree from my property. Do I need a permit?
Yes. If your tree is dead or dying and is posing a hazard, please call City staff as soon as possible. Staff can approve removal of these trees. However, healthy and protected trees fall under the standards of the City's Tree Ordinance. Please refer to the Tree Removal Application.
 
I want to add a second dwelling unit to my property. What do I need to do?
The City Council adopted a revised Second Dwelling Unit Ordinance in December 2008, that allows a second dwelling on property that contains a primary, single family residence. A Second Dwelling Application is required to be filed and can now be approved at Staff level. Please review the new 2nd Unit Ordinance and the 2nd Unit Application on the Planning Department website. Also, you are encouraged to call the City Planner (265-2496) who will guide you through this process.
 
I want to make changes to my home (windows, paint color, remodels and additions). Do I need a permit?
Yes, because the City's goal is to preserve the City's unique character. You will need to complete one of the two Architectural Review Forms. A Minor Architectural Review Application can often be approved at staff level. For example, if you are replacing your roof or house siding with a like-for-like material.
If the work is more extensive or changes the exterior of an older home, or includes removal of a structure on your property, the Architectural Review application most likely will require approval by the Planning Commission. You are encouraged to call the City Planner who will help determine what type of application is required. The Architectural Review application forms are on the Planning Department's website.
 
How do I find out what the building setbacks are for my property?
The zoning ordinance has setback requirements for buildings from your side, rear and front yard property lines. The distances depend on your property's zoning. Please call the City Planner who will be happy to provide you with this information.
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POLICE DEPARTMENT FAQ's
How much is a parking ticket?
Refer to the Bail Schedule.
 
I paid my parking ticket. Why did I receive a delinquency notice?
The processing company probably did not receive notification of your payment when they sent out notices of delinquency. You can forward this notice - or simply bring it in to the Police Department and we will make sure the matter is taken care of.
 
How can I get a copy of a police report?
Police reports are $5.00 for the first five (5) pages and .50 for each additional page. However, some reports cannot be released until the matter has been adjudicated. If the report involves an arrest, it more than likely falls into this category and we advise you to contact the District Attorney's Office.
 
I've locked my keys in my car - can you help?
Maybe. If your car has automatic locks, we cannot help you. You may need to contact a tow company. We can often unlock manual locks.
 
Can I drink alcohol on the street during special events?
Each city-sponsored event is different. Contact the Police Department.
 
I called the Police Department after regular business hours and received a recording. How do get assistance from the Police Department after regular business hours?
Our after-hours number is 530-265-2626. If you have an emergency, dial 911.
 
Can I pay my ticket with a credit or debit card?
At this time we only accept cash, checks, and money orders.  If this changes, notice will be given.
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PUBLIC WORKS FAQ's
How do I report a problem to the Public Works Department (pothole in the street, water line problem, etc)?
During business hours (Monday - Thursday; 8:00am-12:00pm & 1:00pm-5:00pm), call City Hall (265-2496), the front counter staff will dispatch a Public Works employee to investigate your emergency or concern. Evenings and weekends call the Police Dept. at 265-2626 and they will contact a Public Works employee.
 
Why doesn't the City plow my street, patch pot holes, etc?
If you have a one, two or three digit address and your zip code is 95959, you live within City limits and you can report problems to City Hall. If you have a 5 digit address and have a 95959 zip code, you live in the county and County Public Works should be maintaining your road. They can be contacted at 265-1411.
 
If I have a water leak or sewer overflow what is my responsibility and what is the City's?
The City delivers water to and through the water meter. Any leak between the water meter and your house or business property is the responsibility of the property owner. If the leak occurs at the water meter or beyond the meter into the street, it is the City's responsibility to repair it.For sewer problems the City maintains the main lines. It is the responsibility of the property owner to maintain their sewer lateral (the line connecting your home to the main line). You should note that your lateral may cross other properties and extend into the street, but repair is still your responsibility.Public Works Staff will gladly work with you to determine what is private and what is City maintained.
 
What if I don't have water pressure or the pressure is low?
The City maintains a water distribution system that is gravity fed. During peak, high demands the water pressure in the system may drop 5 psi (pounds/square inch). If you notice a larger drop in pressure than that, the first thing to look for is a leak on your property, a broken line, an open faucet or hose bib. We will be glad to come out and check your water meter. We will also check pressure at the meter and see if it is a City supply problem or if the problem is after the meter.
 
Who is responsible for the maintenance and repair of the sidewalk in front of my house?
Property owners are responsible for the sidewalk connected to their property. Responsibility includes ensuring that bushes and tree branches are trimmed to keep the sidewalk clear and repair to any cracks in the sidewalk. If a tree root is causing damage to the sidewalk, contact City Hall. An Public Works employee will come out to access if the tree is the City's responsibility or the home owners.
 
Does the City pick up our yard waste and can we blow our leaves out into the street?
Waste management has a yard recycle container available. Contact them at 274-3090. Blowing leaves into the street can be a traffic hazard and for that reason it is not allowed.
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WASTE WATER TREATMENT PLANT FAQ's
I seem to be having a sewer back up at my home/business - what do I do?
For sewer problems the City maintains the main lines. It is the responsibility of the property owner to maintain their sewer lateral (the line connecting your home to the main line). You should note that your lateral may cross other properties and extend into the street, but repair is still your responsibility.Public Works Staff will gladly work with you to determine what is private and what is City maintained.
 
I have a strong sewer smell in my yard, what do I do?
You should call the City immediately. During business hours call City Hall(265-2496). Evenings and weekends call (265-2626) to report the problem. A public works employee will be dispatched to help you assess the problem.
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