|
Featured Questions
Litter and Illegal Dumping - who do I contact?- The contact point for litter or illegal dumping depends on where ... (more)
The contact point for litter or illegal dumping depends on where the items are located and the type of items. See list below.
Bio-Hazard (Human) Waste If you are reporting illegal dumping of bio-hazard (human) waste, please contact Police Department, non-emergency, at (650) 903-6395.
Litter and Debris Associated with Homeless Police Department, non-emergency, at (650) 903-6344.
Downtown & Parks
Community Services (Forestry & Roadways)
(650) 903-6273
parks@mountainview.gov
Sidewalk, Planter Strip, Roadway Blocking the Roadway or Street Sweeping
Public Works Dept., Public Services Division
(650) 903-6329
public.services@mountainview.gov
Private Property (Commercial or 1-3 Housing Units)
City Attorney's Office, Code Enforcement
650-903-7713
code.enforcement@mountainview.gov
Private Property (5+ Housing Units)
Fire Department, Multi-Family Housing
650-903-6378
fire@mountainview.gov
Christmas Trees or
Insufficient Service
Recology Mountain View
650-967-3034
www.recologymountainview.com
Dead Animals in the Street Silicon Valley Animal Control Services (408) 764-0344 or online at http://svaca.com/services/animal-complaints
(FAQ9905)
less
Are gas-powered leaf blowers banned in the City of Mountain View?- ... (more)
-
Municipal
code does not prohibit gas-powered landscaping equipment use within Mountain
View.
However,
the State and the City are encouraging the transition to electric alternatives.
Here is some information about the initiatives underway.
Regulation:
As of January 1 2024,
the sale of new small off-road engines (including leaf blowers) must be
zero-emission in California, as a result of law AB 1346 (2021). The City of
Mountain View submitted a letter of support for this legislation.
Many residents have
asked for the regulation of gas-powered leaf blowers and other landscaping
equipment due to their noise and air quality impacts. In response, the City Council discussed
pursuing a leaf blower ordinance or incentive program at a Study Session on
December 1, 2020 and a Study Session on March 16, 2021. Council did not want to
supersede pending state legislation that would phase out gas-powered leaf
blowers (see above). Council instead asked staff to consider a local or
regional rebate or trade-in program.
Incentives for
residents:
During Spring 2024, Silicon
Valley Clean Energy is offering a $50 incentive toward electric leaf blowers,
lawn mowers, chainsaws, and trimmers, which can be found on their Appliances Assist web tool.
In the past, the City has
partnered with Silicon Valley Clean Energy to launch their first electric
landscape equipment incentive program for residents. Future programs will continue
to be shared with Mountain View residents on the Sustainability website,
newsletter, and social media channels.
Incentives for
professional landscapers:
Through Senate Bill 170,
the State appropriated $30 million in vouchers to fund zero-emission small
off-road equipment for professional landscaping services operated by small
businesses or sole proprietors. The project, referred to as the Clean Off-Road
Equipment Voucher Incentive Project (CORE), launched on November 7, 2022 and
provides a discount to help offset the cost of zero-emission technology for
landscapers. This spring 2023, the City sent out information to over 400
landscape businesses, promoting this incentive program.
Moving forward: The City is continuing
to explore initiatives to promote electric landscape equipment, and any updates
will be shared in the sustainability newsletter:
MountainView.gov/Sustainability.
(FAQ11804)
less
How do I report illegal dumping on sidewalks and streets?- If it is related to homeless living, please contact the Police Department non-emergency phone at (650) 903-6344.... (more)
- If it is related to homeless living, please contact the Police Department non-emergency phone at (650) 903-6344.
For non-homeless illegal dumping, please contact the Public Services Division at (650) 903-6329.
(FAQ11193)
less
Where is the Library located and when is it open?- The Library is located at 585 Franklin St. Mountain View, CA 94041. Directions to the Library and current open hours are... (more)
- The Library is located at 585 Franklin St. Mountain View, CA 94041. Directions to the Library and current open hours are available on the Library website.
(FAQ11696)
less
Are there current water use restrictions?- The City of Mountain View's ... (more)
- The City of Mountain View's current water use restrictions can be found on our website.
(FAQ6356)
less
Trash Cans Smell Bad. Who do I call?- Recology can steam clean commercial and multi-family dumpsters, but residents must clean ... (more)
Recology can steam clean commercial and multi-family dumpsters, but residents must clean their own trash carts. If your complaint is about public litter cans, you should contact the City.
Here are some contacts for common problems:
Downtown & Parks Public litter can maintenance. Community Services Dept. (Forestry & Roadways) (650) 903-6273 parks@mountainview.gov Private Properties (Commercial & Residential) Overflowing Trash Cans Insufficient Service Recology Mountain View 650-967-3034 www.recologymountainview.com
(FAQ9906)
less
Who do I call to report illegally dumped bio-hazard (human) waste?- Please call the Police Department non-emergency number at (650) 903-6344.... (more)
Please call the Police Department non-emergency number at (650) 903-6344.
(FAQ11380)
less
How can I report an abandoned vehicle?- To report a vehicle that appears to have been abandoned, please go to our website ... (more)
- To report a vehicle that appears to have been abandoned, please go to our website here.
(FAQ6449)
less
Do you charge fines?- The Library does not charge daily overdue fines. However, if an item is more than two weeks' overdue, a bill for re... (more)
The Library does not charge daily overdue fines. However, if an item is more than two weeks' overdue, a bill for replacement will be sent. Once the item is returned all charges are waived.
If an item is lost or damaged, the borrower will be charged for the replacement cost of the item. Customer replacements for lost or damaged items are not accepted. If a lost item is paid for but is then found within six months of payment, the item can be returned for a refund. If any part of an item is missing upon return, the full replacement cost of the item may be charged.
(FAQ11676)
less
Does the City of Mountain View issue permits for the placement of PODS or other storage units on the roadway?- No, the City of Mountain View does not allow the placement of PODS or other storage units on the public roadway. They do... (more)
- No, the City of Mountain View does not allow the placement of PODS or other storage units on the public roadway. They do not meet Section 670 of the California Vehicle Code, therefore they are not allowed to be parked on the street. Placement of units in the public right of way may result in a citation and fines.
(FAQ9730)
less
What do I do if I forget my PIN?- Go to ... (more)
Go to My Library Account, select <Forget your PIN?>, enter your library card number, and click on Submit. An email will be sent to you with a link to reset your PIN. Alternatively, call Customer Service, 650-903-6887..
(FAQ8229)
less
Is there any work that doesn't require a permit?- 1. One-story
detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and
similar uses, provided t... (more)
- 1. One-story
detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and
similar uses, provided the floor area is not greater than 120 square feet.
Consult with Planning for separate zoning requirements. (Note: If you are
adding electrical to the proposed structure, a permit will be required.)
2. Wood fences not over 6 feet in height. Consult with Planning for zoning
requirements.
3. Oil derricks.
4. Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet in height measured from the
bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge
or impounding Class I, II or II-A-liquids.
5. Water tanks supported directly on grade if the capacity does not exceed
5,000 gallons and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed
2:1. Consult with Planning for zoning requirements.
6. Sidewalks and driveways not more than 30 inches above adjacent grade,
and not over any basement or story below and are not part of an accessible
route. Consult with Planning for zoning requirements and Public Works for
off-site improvements requirements.
7. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops and similar
finish work. (Kitchen and Bathroom cabinet replacement requires a permit.
Exterior painting of anything other than a single family residence or duplex
will require Planning approval.)
8. Temporary motion picture, television and theater stage sets and
scenery.
9. Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy
(single-family residence) that are less than 24 inches deep, are not greater
than 5,000 gallons and are installed entirely above ground. Consult with
Planning for zoning requirements.
10. Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural
purposes, not including service systems.
11. Swings and other playground equipment accessory to detached One-and-Two
Family Dwellings.
12. Window awnings in Group R-3 and U occupancies, supported by an exterior
wall that do not project more than 54 inches from the exterior wall and do
not require additional support. Consult with Planning for zoning
requirements.
13. Non-fixed movable fixtures, cases, racks, counters and partitions not
over 5 feet 9 inches in height.
14. Roofing repairs less than 100 square feet (one roofing square).
15. Window replacements in the same opening, when window opening is not
modified and there is no framing construction required. Consult with Planning
for zoning requirements.
Additional information on this can also be found on our website at:
https://www.mountainview.gov/our-city/departments/community-development/building-fire-inspection/building-construction/work-exempted-from-permit
(FAQ6145)
less
Where can I find information about parking enforcement in Mountain View?- Information related to general parking can be found ... (more)
- Information related to general parking can be found here on the police department's website. For parking related to special events, like Levi's Stadium, go here.
(FAQ6487)
less
How do I return library items?- The Library provides three automated return stations which supply receipts. The return inside the Library is available d... (more)
- The Library provides three automated return stations which supply receipts. The return inside the Library is available during the Library’s open hours. The walk-up return is located at the front of the Library on Franklin Street and is available 24 hours a day. The drive-up return is located in the Library underground parking garage and is available during the garage open hours.
(FAQ11675)
less
Do you have Internet access?- The Library has many public computers for internet use. Internet computers are available to Library cardholders and ... (more)
- The Library has many public computers for internet use. Internet computers are available to Library cardholders and may be used up to 180 minutes per day. One-hour guest courtesy passes are available at the reference desks on the second floor and the Children's Room if you are unable to obtain a library card.
Computers are available on a first-time, first served basis. Users can reserve the next available computer on the second floor when all computers are in use.
Printing from the internet computers is available for a fee. Black and white printouts cost 15 cents single-sided, 25 cents double-sided. Color printouts cost 30 cents single-sided, 40 cents double-sided. There are no refunds available for printing.
(FAQ6232)
less
How do I get a Library card?- To get a Library card, you can apply online in ... (more)
- To get a Library card, you can apply online in English or Spanish and then complete the registration at the
Library.
(FAQ6237)
less
What are the Hours of Construction?- No construction activity shall commence prior to 7:00 a.m. nor continue later than 6:00p.m., Monday through Friday.... (more)
-
(FAQ6128)
less
How do I renew Library items?- Items are automatically renewed on the due date if there are no holds on them and the maximum number of renewals ha... (more)
Items are automatically renewed on the due date if there are no holds on them and the maximum number of renewals has not been reached.
(FAQ6240)
less
Who do I call to report a traffic signal outage?- Traffic signal outages should be reported to Public Works at (650) 903-6311. Signals along Central Expres... (more)
- Traffic signal outages should be reported to Public Works at (650) 903-6311. Signals along Central Expressway are the responsibility of Santa Clara County and signals along El Camino Real and freeway off-ramps are the responsibility of CalTrans who may take longer to respond.
(FAQ8183)
less
How do I pay my utility bill?- There are several ways to pay your bill: 1. Pay by check and mail it in the return envelope provided with your bill. 2. ... (more)
- There are several ways to pay your bill: 1. Pay by check and mail it in the return envelope provided with your bill. 2. Call the Revenue Division at 650-903-6317 and pay over the phone with a credit card. 3. Drop your payment in the night drop box located to the left of the main doors of City Hall located at 500 Castro Street 4. Set up an auto debit with your bank or through the City's auto debit program. Call 650-903-6317 for details
(FAQ6759)
less
Are there any volunteer positions in the Library?- We rely on volunteers to assist us with sorting and organizing books, helping with libr... (more)
We rely on volunteers to assist us with sorting and organizing books, helping with library programs and many other tasks. Visit the Volunteer at the Library page for current opportunities.
Volunteers 18 years of age or over must complete a fingerprinting process through the Mountain View Police Department, at no cost to the volunteer.
(FAQ6246)
less
How do I file a formal complaint?- For more information on how... (more)
- For more information on how to file a complaint and the process itself, please visit our website here.
(FAQ6748)
less
Where are the City's dog runs?- There are no dog runs in Mountain View’s City parks. Dog owners may train a dog without a leash in designate... (more)
- There are no dog runs in Mountain View’s City parks. Dog owners may train a dog without a leash in designated areas of Cuesta, Rengstorff and Whisman Parks if they have obtained a permit. The permit is valid only for dog training and does not apply to dog exercising or off-leash play. The dog training areas at Cuesta, Rengstorff and Whisman Parks should not be confused with dog runs or dog parks where dogs may run and play off leash. There is a Dog Park specifically designed for dogs where they may run free and play in a controlled area and socialize with other dogs and their owners. It is located at the corner of Shoreline Boulevard and North Road.
(FAQ6266)
less
How do I obtain a removal application for a Heritage Tree?- Residents can
... (more)
Residents can
fill out and print an application online at the City of Mountain View web site.
You can also
email Parks at parks@mountainview.gov
and request a link or email with a blank application. Residents can also call
the Forestry Division at 650 903 6273 and staff can mail a blank application to
the resident.
Once our
offices are open to the public residents will be able to walk in and request
one. We are currently closed to the public without an appointment.
Applications
and associated fee if applicable (we do not charge for dead trees or
trees deemed hazardous by staff) can be mailed to: 231 North Whisman Road|
Mountain View, CA 94043
(FAQ6281)
less
Do you have meeting rooms?- The Library has 10 group study rooms located on the second floor of the Library, for small groups to... (more)
The Library has 10 group study rooms located on the second floor of the Library, for small groups to use for purposes of group study, discussions, projects, and for tutoring or similar activities. Reservations are made online through https://mountainview.gov/studyrooms. You will need your Mountain View Public Library card number (account in good standing), the PIN, and a valid email address to book a group study room. For more information on booking a group study room, click here.
(FAQ6235)
less
Who do I call to report a street light outage?- Report street light outages to Public Services at (650) 903-6329.... (more)
- Report street light outages to Public Services at (650) 903-6329.
(FAQ6336)
less
How can I support the Library?- Donat... (more)
- Donations of any amount are gladly accepted and may be made by credit card, check or cash. Other opportunities include memorial and gift donations, as well as materials donations to the Friends of the Mountain View Library.
(FAQ6247)
less
I have a question about traffic signals.- ... (more)
- Please click here for additional information.
(FAQ6325)
less
I have some concerns about people living in vehicles, but they are not an emergency. Who do I talk to?- For non-emergency concerns, call the non-emergency line at (650) 903-6395.... (more)
- For non-emergency concerns, call the non-emergency line at (650) 903-6395.
(FAQ11257)
less
Why are couches and other items dumped in the street sitting there for days? - What appears as "dumped" items to you might actually be items appropriately scheduled and set out for collection under t... (more)
- What appears as "dumped" items to you might actually be items appropriately scheduled and set out for collection under the On Call Plus Clean Up program. This program is for residents subscribed to curbside service (individual carts) and the cost is included in their utility rate.
Residents in apartments subscribed to shared trash and recycling services should contact their property manager to arrange for special collection. Small fees may apply to cover the cost of the service.
If the items are not collected within 7 days, please enter a Ask MV request to resolve the problem.
(FAQ11318)
less
What happens once a removal permit has been issued?- A Heritage Tree Removal Permit is valid for up to two (2) years from date of issue. After the tree(s) is removed, ... (more)
- A Heritage Tree Removal Permit is valid for up to two (2) years from date of issue. After the tree(s) is removed, the owner is typically required to plant a new 24-inch box tree(s) or pay an in-lieu fee of two hundred fifty dollars ($250) to the City of Mountain View for each tree removed. These funds are used to plant new trees in City parks, medians and public areas. The property owner may choose the replacement species and planting location for the new tree(s).
(FAQ6279)
less
How do I report trash and recycling carts left out at the curbside more than 24 hours after collection?- City Code 16.21 requires that residents remove trash and recycling carts from the curbside within 24 hours after collect... (more)
- City Code 16.21 requires that residents remove trash and recycling carts from the curbside within 24 hours after collection and store in a garage or behind a fence or hedge so they are suitably screened from public street view. Contact Zero Waste & Recycling for assistance at 650-903-6311 or through Ask Mountain View.
(FAQ11196)
less
How can I get a job at the Library?- Library positions are offered through the City of Mountain View and can be found on the ... (more)
- Library positions are offered through the City of Mountain View and can be found on the current opportunities page.
(FAQ11686)
less
What are my legal requirements if I am a property owner or manager?- Under Mountain View law, owners, operators, and property managers of residential properties,whether rental or owner... (more)
Under Mountain View law, owners, operators, and property managers of residential properties,whether rental or owner-occupied, are required to:
- Post "No Smoking" signs in places where smoking is prohibited by law, including inside buildings and at entrances at eye level. Signs are not required inside multi-unit residences.
- Include the following items in every lease or other rental agreement for a multi-unit residence that is entered into, renewed, or continued month-to-month after the effective date of the Ordinance:
- A copy of the full text of the law (Chapter 21, Article II, Prohibition and Regulation of Smoking in Certain Places of the Mountain View City Code). There is a double-sided, one-page copy of the law titled “Copy of Smoking Ordinance for Leases” available on the City’s Smoking Ordinance webpage. The link to the webpage can be found under the “Where can I get more information” section below.
- A description of and/or image depicting the location(s) of any designated smoking area(s) on the property, if any.
- A clause giving third-party beneficiary status to residents to allow them to enforce the Prohibition and Regulation of Smoking in Certain Places against violators through aprivate civil action.
(FAQ11763)
less
How do I cancel or freeze a hold?- Go to the ... (more)
Go to the Library Catalog and log into your account, then
click on Titles on Hold to display a list of your holds. Find title, and
click on Cancel Hold, and then click on Confirm Cancel Hold.
You can freeze a hold as log as the item is not available
and you are not the first hold in the queue. Find title in hold list, and click
on Freeze Hold. To unfreeze, return to hold list, find title, and click on
Thaw.
(FAQ11250)
less
What kind of signs are illegal in Mountain View?- The following signs are inconsistent with the purposes of the city's comprehensive sign approach and the sign standards ... (more)
- The following signs are inconsistent with the purposes of the city's comprehensive sign approach and the sign standards outlined in this article, and are therefore prohibited:
A. Abandoned signs, or signs advertising or publicizing an activity, service or product not conducted on the premises upon which the sign is maintained, excerpt for community interest signs permitted by Section A36.38.060.B.1 or signs specifically permitted in a zone district or precise plan;
B. Animated, moving, flashing, blinking, reflecting, revolving, or any other similar moving or simulated moving sign;
C. Balloons, gas-filled balloons, flags (except for those outlined in Section A36.38.040.B), banners (except as provided in Section A36.38.060.D.6), and pennants;
D. Signs on benches, bicycle racks, shopping cart corrals or other site appurtenances, except for simple, non-illuminated directory or owner identification signs not exceeding two (2) square feet;
E. Off-site signs, except as permitted in Section A36.38.060.D;
F. Signs mounted on the roof or above the lower eave line of a mansard or similar roof;
G. Signs on public property or in a public right-of-way, except for publicly installed traffic and street identification signs, approved special event signs or other signs expressly permitted by this code (such as, political signs);
H. Signs painted on or affixed to fences or roofs;
I. Signs that simulate in color or design a traffic sign or signal, or which make use of words, symbols or characters in a manner which could interfere with, mislead or confuse pedestrian or vehicular traffic;
J. Temporary signs, including but not limited to, ""A"" frame signs and sandwich boards, any sign attached to utility or street name poles and any product or temporary sign mounted or painted on a vehicle parked or located so as to function as an identification or directional sign(s) identifying a business or product; and
K. Windblown devices, including but not limited to windmills, kites, display flags, streamers, balloons, blimps, or similar devices designed to attract attention to a property or business by moving in the wind.
(FAQ6819)
less
Who do I call to report graffiti?- Graffiti should be reported to the City's Graffiti Abatement Hotline at (650) 903-6767. For graffiti on f... (more)
- Graffiti should be reported to the City's Graffiti Abatement Hotline at (650) 903-6767. For graffiti on freeway on/off ramps, call Caltrans at 408-436-0930.
(FAQ6327)
less
How do I start my own business in Mountain View?- Please see this ... (more)
- Please see this website for more information on starting your business in the City of Mountain View.
(FAQ6762)
less
How can I reserve a group study room?- The Library offers 10 study rooms on the second floor that can be ... (more)
- The Library offers 10 study rooms on the second floor that can be reserved online. For more information, visit the Group Study and Program Use Policy and Group Study Room FAQs.
(FAQ11687)
less
Do you have seeds available for the public?- The Library maintains an ever-changing collection of seeds for you to grow at home. The seeds are free and availabl... (more)
The Library maintains an ever-changing collection of seeds for you to grow at home. The seeds are free and available to anyone. The Seed Library is built on donations from the community. You don't need to donate seeds to take seeds home.
(FAQ11700)
less
How can I find information about the City's Neighborhood Traffic Management Plan (NTMP)?- Information about traffic calming on City streets may be found ... (more)
- Information about traffic calming on City streets may be found here.
(FAQ9866)
less
What are your Submittal and Plan Check requirements for building permits?- Submittal and Plan Check requirements are based on your scope of work. Other than fire systems, deferred submittals... (more)
Submittal and Plan Check requirements are based on your scope of work. Other than fire systems, deferred submittals need to be approved by the Chief Building Official prior to initial project submittal. Approvals will be granted on a case by case basis. Submittal and Plan Check lists may be found on our website at: https://www.mountainview.gov/depts/comdev/building/construction/plancheck/default.asp
(FAQ6148)
less
How do I find out about Library events?- Check out the ... (more)
(FAQ6244)
less
Where can I find the Mountain View City Code online?- click here for more info... (more)
- click here for more information.
(FAQ6823)
less
How do I pay for lost or damaged items?- Log into ... (more)
- Log into My Library Account. You can pay fines and fees with a VISA or MasterCard credit card. There is no minimum payment. Be sure to print a copy of the receipt for your records.
(FAQ6781)
less
I have a large amount of trash and bulky items to dispose of and I reside in a single-family home. How do I...- Residents can schedule three free On Call Plus Clean Up appointments throughout most of the year by calling Recology Mou... (more)
- Residents can schedule three free On Call Plus Clean Up appointments throughout most of the year by calling Recology Mountain View at (650) 967-3034. Click here for more information.
(FAQ6203)
less
How do I get copies of plans my home?- The plans may be maintained on microfiche and/or in the permanent City address files, and they are public record fo... (more)
The plans may be maintained on microfiche and/or in the permanent City address files, and they are public record for viewing; we do comply with the "copyright law" which states it is against the law to allow the duplication of these documents however anyone requesting copies of building plans must have written permission from both the property owner and the certified, licensed, or registered professional or his/her successor (if any) who signed the original documents, or by order of a proper court. Additional information on Duplication of Plans and Copying of Documents Prepared by Licensed Professionals can be found on the website at: https://www.mountainview.gov/our-city/departments/community-development/building-fire-inspection/building-general-information/duplicating-plans-on-record
(FAQ6146)
less
What is the appeal process?- Any person aggrieved or affected by a decision to remove or deny removal of a Heritage tree may appeal the decision duri... (more)
- Any person aggrieved or affected by a decision to remove or deny removal of a Heritage tree may appeal the decision during the ten (10) day posting period. A letter stating the reason(s) for the appeal must be submitted to the City Clerk’s Office. There is a Fifteen Dollar ($15) fee for filing an appeal. An appeal automatically stops any action on the tree until the Urban Forestry Board hears the appeal at a public meeting. The Board’s decision on an appeal is final.
(FAQ6276)
less
Is there a penalty for smoking in multi-unit residences?- Owners, operators, and property managers of residential properties who do not fulfil the requirements listed above may b... (more)
- Owners, operators, and property managers of residential properties who do not fulfil the requirements listed above may be subject to fines and/or prosecution. Individuals who smoke where smoking is prohibited also may be subject to fines and/or prosecution. Additionally, renters who smoke where smoking is prohibited are in violation of their lease and are subject to enforcement by the landlord or other tenants.
(FAQ11766)
less
I am a person living in a vehicle in Mountain View, and I am concerned for my safety or feel threatened.- Both residents livin... (more)
- Both residents living in vehicles and neighbors are encouraged to contact the Mountain View Police Department (MVPD) when experiencing any emergency or safety threat by dialing 9-1-1.
(FAQ11256)
less
|
