Q
There is a pothole in the street. Where can I report this?

A
Contact the City's Department of Transportation, Street Maintenance, at (408) 277-4373 for assistance.

Q
People are constantly speeding down my street. Can speed bumps or a stop sign be installed to slow the traffic?

A
Contact the Department of Transportation, Traffic Calming, at (408) 535-3850 to inquire about a traffic study.

Q
My street tree is pulling up the sidewalk in front of my house. How can I get it removed and get the sidewalk fixed?

A
Contact the City's Department of Transportation at (408) 277-4373 for assistance.

Q
My street light is out. Can you tell me who to call to get it replaced?

A
You can get your streetlight repaired by calling the City's street light recorder. You will be asked to provide the number from the street pole. The number is stenciled on the pole at eye level, facing the street. Contact the street light recorder by calling (408) 277-5517 and leave a message.

Q
Who do I call when my sewer is backed up?

A
Contact the Department of Transportation, Sewer, at (408) 277-4373.

Q
Where can I get information about starting my own business?

A
The City’s Finance Department, Treasury Division, has a business packet that explains the licenses and permits that must be obtained before doing business in the City. To contact the Treasury Division, call (408) 535-7055.

Q
I would like to start a business out of my home. Can you tell me how to find out about the zoning regulations for my area?

A
Contact the City's Planning Department at (408) 535-3555 to find out about zoning regulations for your area.

Q
Does the City have a program for gang prevention?

A
The City has many youth programs offered through the Department of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services. The numbers are listed below:

The Right Connection (408) 251-6026 San Jose BEST (408) 793-4114 Youth Employment Services (408) 535-3570

Q
Does the City sponsor any after school programs for youth?

A
The City has many after school programs offered through the Department of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services.

Q
Does the City of San José have a first time homebuyers program?

A
The City has a first time homebuyers program offered through the City's Housing Department. For information call (408) 795-4445.

Q
Does the City of San José offer any financial assistance to repair or paint my older home?

A
The City has a program for low interest rate home repair loans for qualified residents. Call (408) 975-4440 for more information about the program. The City no longer has a paint grant program, due to lack of funding.

Q
Does the City of San José have rent control?

A
The City of San José enforces a rent control ordinance pertaining to triplexes, apartments, and mobile homes. For information call (408) 975-4480.

Q
How do I report an abandoned vehicle on my street?

A
Contact the Abandoned Vehicle Hotline at (408) 277-5305. You will be asked to provide a description of the automobile and its location. The City will then tag the vehicle and have it towed away if it has not been moved within 72 hours.

Q
My neighbor has a large accumulation of garbage in his backyard. Is there anything that can be done about this?

A
The City's Code Enforcement Department has a division that provides assistance by enforcing the Municipal Code so that neighborhoods throughout the city can be clean and safe. The number to call for assistance is (408) 277-4528.

Q
Is there a way I can dispose of my refrigerator through the garbage service?

A
The City's Recycle Plus program has a “ large item pick-up” service that can be ordered by calling (408) 535-3515, and then selecting the option for “large item pick-up” service from the menu.

Q
Can the City send someone to pick up an old appliance (or other large item) that has been left in the street?

A
The Department of Transportation is responsible for keeping the city's streets clear of obstructions. To have discarded items or garbage removed from a city street, contact the Department of Transportation Maintenance Division at (408) 277-4373.

Q
Where can I get a calendar of downtown City events?

A
A calendar of downtown events is available through the City's Office of Cultural Affairs by calling (408) 277-5144, or from the “Visitor” section of the City’s website, at this address: http://www.sanjose.org.

Q
Where do I get a police clearance letter necessary to open a daycare, be a coach, or for immigration purposes?

A
You can obtain a police clearance letter by contacting the San Jose Police Department Records Office at (408) 277-4141.

Q
Where do I get a flood zone identification number that my insurance company has requested?

A
For information about flood zones and related information, contact Development Services at (408) 535-7803.

Q
Do I need a permit to put a new roof on my house?

A
Many building projects require permits. To find out if you need to obtain a permit prior to construction, contact City's Development Services at (408) 535-3555.

Q
What can be done about parking problems in my neighborhood?

A
For concerns about parking issues, contact the City's Department of Transportation at (408) 535-3850.

Q
Are there any local programs or services for seniors?

A
The City's Office on Aging has information about programs and services for the city's senior population. For more information call (408) 979-7820.

Q
Where can I report noise from airplanes that fly over my house?

A
The City's Airport Noise Office establishes operating guidelines to reduce the impact of aircraft noise on the surrounding community. The Airport Noise Office investigates airport noise events and monitors compliance with the time of day restrictions. More information can be obtained by calling (408) 501-0955.