Guide to the Cities

About This Guide

The SAMCAR Guide to Cities is designed as a tool to help REALTORS® navigate through the cities in SAMCAR's jurisdiction when buying and selling homes. The guide highlights various city and county requirements necessary on the sale of real property. However, this guide is not completely inclusive of all requirements and, therefore, should not serve as the sole source of information in regards to the various requirements that may be required of real estate professional in the buying and selling of real estate. Contact information for some community organizations and Chambers of Commerce are also provided for your reference convenience.

How to Use This Online Guide

The cities in SAMCAR's jurisdiction are listed in alphabetical order with the corresponding information to each city below its name. Each city's name is an active link which you may click to be brought directly to their website. There are many active links in this guide that will take you to other websites where the applicably referenced information is located.

Where to Call

The following is a general overivew of the various departments that can be found in your city. You are encouraged to contact the applicable departments if you seek more specific information. The contact information for each of these departments is listed below in the relevant section under each city.

Building Department - Information on inspections, permitting or property research fees.

Finance Department - Information about business license fees/taxes, transfer taxes, gross receipts taxes or special parcel taxes.

Fire Department - Information on local smoke detector ordinances and requirements, deck and roof ordinances, weed abatement, smoke detector testing, etc.

Planning Department - Information on sign ordinances, planning and zoning regulations, remodeling and room additions, etc.

Property Tax Information - Property tax information for each parcel may be accessed and viewed at the San Mateo County Tax Collector - Treasurer's website. You will need the either the parcel's address or APN#/parcel number to access the relevant information.

School Information - Information on San Mateo County schools, including SAT scores, college attendance rates, contact information, and more can be found in the Newcomer McCormack's Guide website.

More information can also be found at the San Mateo County Office of Education's website. Information on special programs and pending lawsuits can be obtained by contacting each individual school.

• Belmont
• Brisbane
• Burlingame
• CAA Tri-County
• Colma
• Daly City
• Foster City
• Half Moon Bay
• Hillsborough
• Millbrae
• Pacifica
• Redwood City
• San Bruno
• San Bruno
• San Bruno
• San Carlos
• San Mateo
• San Mateo County
• South San Francisco
• Unicorporated Areas of San Mateo County

	(650) 599-1406
	(510) 464-7900

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Building Department	(650) 595-7422
Business Licenses	$258.00/year for broker plus $85.00 for each agent. Business license application at: http://www.belmont.gov/Upload/Document/ D240001241/ComprehensiveBLApplicationForm.pdf
City Clerk	One Twin Pines Lane, Suite 375 (650) 595-7413
City Hall	1070 6th Ave
Disclosures	Smoking in Multi-Unit Residences / Buyer is advised that the City of Belmont has enacted an ordinance whereby nonconsensual exposure to secondhand smoke is considered a nuisance; as well, the uninvited presence of secondhand smoke on property is a nuisance and a trespass. Pursuant to Belmont City Code Chapter 20.5 (Regulation of Smoking), smoking is prohibited in a number of areas, including but not limited to multi-unit residence that share at least one common floor or ceiling with another such unit. Buyer is advised to examine Belmont City Code Chapter 20.5 in whole and determine its applicability.
Finance Department	(650) 595-7433
Fire Department	Fire Chief: (650) 802-4255 / Fire Marshal: (650) 802-4252
Home Offices	Home Occupation Affidavit available on the web.
Planning Department
Sign Ordinance	No permit required. Property owner or his or her agent may display on own real property, as well may display on real property owned by another with that persons consent. Signs prohibited in public right-of-way or on public property, except by permission of the agency, which owns such property, or as permitted for open house signs. Residential signs must not exceed 4 square feet and non-residential signs must not exceed 12 square feet in area permitted pertaining to the sale, lease, rental or display of the property on which the sign is located. Real estate signs must be removed within 15 days after a property is no longer for sale, lease or exchange.
Smoke Detectors	Follow State Requirements. You may also access the California Association of Realtors® Legal Q&As regarding Smoke Detector Requirements online at: http://www.car.org/legal/2005articles/smoke-detector-requirements/ You will need your Member ID # and password to access this information.

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Business License Applications:	Please visit the Finance Counter at City Hall for a Business Application Form. You may also contact Debra with any questions at dpatton@ci.brisbane.ca.us or by calling (415) 508-2154.
Business Licenses	f the office is located in Brisbane, the business license fee will be based on gross receipts from sales within Brisbane as follows: Gross Receipts Tax Table If gross receipts are: Over But Not More Than = Business License Tax Shall Be: $0 to $50,000 = $50 $50,000 to $75,000 = $75 $75,000 to $100,000 = $100 $100,000 to $150,000 = $125 $150,000 to $250,000 = $150 $250,000 to $350,000 = $175 $350,000 to $450,000 = $200 $450,000 to $550,000 = $225 $550,000 to $700,000 = $250 $700,000 to $1,000,000 = $300 $1,000,000 to $1,500,000 = $350 $1,500,000 to $2,000,000 = $400 $2,000,000 to $3,000,000 = $500 plus 20¢ per $1,000 or fraction thereof over $2,000,000 and up to $9,000,000 $3,000,000 to $4,000,000 = $700 plus 15¢ per $1,000 or fraction thereof over $3,000,000 and up to $4,000,000 $4,000,000 to $5,000,000 = $850 plus 10¢ per $1,000 or fraction thereof over $4,000,000 and up to $5,000,000 $5,000,000 to $10,000,000 = $1,050 plus 5¢ per $1,000 or fraction thereof over $5,000,000 and up to $10,000,000 $10,000,000 and over = $1,300 plus 4¢ per $1,000 or fraction thereof over $10,000,000 If the agent/broker has no fixed place of business within the City, however conducts the business of selling or offering for sale any real property owned by another, then the agent/broker has the option to pay either a: 1) a flat $75 fee semi-annually, or 2) a fee based on gross receipts from sales within Brisbane according to the above chart.
City Clerk	(415) 508-2113
City Hall	50 Park Lane
Community Development	Community Development covers the building department and planning commission. (415) 508-2120
Finance Department	(415) 508-2150
Fire Department	(650) 991-8138 (North County Fire Authority Administrative Headquarters)
Home Offices
Planning Department	(415) 508-2120
Sign Ordinance	No permit required. Limit to only one sign per unit. Off-site signs are allowed only on the day of the open house. Residential signs must not exceed 6 square feet and non-residential signs must not exceed 16 square feet. Real estate signs must be removed within 10 days after finalization of sale or rental.
Smoke Detectors	Follow State Requirements. You may also access the California Association of Realtors® Legal Q&As regarding Smoke Detector Requirements. You will need your Member ID # and password to access this information.

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Building Department	(650) 558-7260
Business License Tax Fees	Business License fees are a local tax for revenue purposes only. It is the owner's sole responsibility to renew it annually. The certificate must be posted in a conspicuous place. Business License Certificates are non-transferable documents. A change in ownership requires new owner(s) to register their businesses. For most businesses, the license tax fee is $100.00 annually, based on the fiscal year July 1 through June 30. First time application fee of $35.00 is required for all businesses. The Business License tax fee will be prorated by the quarter, based on the business start date. LICENSE FEES 7/1- 6/30 = $100 10/1-6/30 = $75 1/01-6/30 = $50 4/01-6/30 = $25 Businesses approved and located on Broadway automatically become members of the Broadway Burlingame Business Improvement District. The Broadway BID was approved by the Burlingame City Council on July 6, 1992. The BID assesses every merchant on Broadway a yearly fee based on the type of business and number of employees. The yearly fees are collected by the City of Burlingame at the time Business License fees are collected. The funds are then transferred to the BID advisory board whose yearly budget is approved by the council. For further information, please contact the Business License Office.
City Clerk	(650) 558-7203
City Hall	501 Primrose Road (650) 558-7200
Finance Department	(650) 558-7201
Fire Department	(650) 558-7615
Home Offices	If you need more information on Home Offices, please visit Burlingame’s webpage about Home Occupations Businesses and application.
Planning Department	(650) 558-7250
Point-Of-Sale Ordinance	1. Sewer Laterals: Inspection and Correction upon Sale Whenever any property is to be transferred to or vested in any other person or entity and that property includes any buildings or structures constructed more than 25 years prior to the date of transfer or vesting, the sewer lateral(s) to that property must be tested for infiltration and all necessary repairs or replacements performed to prevent all infiltration. All repair or replacement work must be completed and approved by the city prior to transfer of title. The following are excused from the above requirements: 1) Condominium or cooperative apartment buildings or the units within those buildings, except as a condition to conversion to a condominium or cooperative apartment building; or 2) 10 years after acceptance of a test pursuant to this section if partial or no repairs of the lateral were required and any repairs were completed pursuant to permit and inspection by the city; or 3) 10 years after inspection and approval by the city of completed alterations to the lateral, if alterations pursuant to a city permit were made to the location of or connections to the lateral following a test pursuant to this section; or 4) 25 years after acceptance of work if replacement of the complete sewer lateral was performed; or 5) If the city enginner determines testing is unnecessary because the piping has less than 3 joints and the total length does not exceed 10 feet. Burlingame Municipal Code, see Section 15.12.110 Private Sewer Lateral and Testing Procedure and Requirements For more information contact the Public Works Department 558-7230. 2. Chimney Spark Arrestor Every chimney must have a spark arrestor, either internally or externally mounted. Any spark arrestor to be mounted internally must not be installed until installation plans for such arrestor have been submitted to and approved by the building department. Upon the sale or transfer of the real property on which any chimney is located, the transfer of title may not be made until each such chimney contains the required spark arrestor, properly installed and in proper working order, and until an inspector report has been filed with the Fire Code Official certifying that the work and/or inspection has been performed. Statement of Compliance Document Burlingame Municipal Code, see Chapter 17.04, Section 603.6.6, Fuel-Fired Applicances
Sign Ordinance	No permit required. Limit to one sign on private property, with the exception of corner lots where two signs may be placed one per street. Off-site, A-boards, and directional signs are prohibited. Sign must not exceed 3 square feet in a single-face area in any R zoning district or 9 square feet in a single-face area in any other (commercial or manufacturing) zoning district.
Smoke Detectors	Follow State Requirements. You may also access the California Association of Realtors® Legal Q&As regarding Smoke Detector Requirements. You will need your Member ID # and password to access this information.

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City Information	(408) 873-1599

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City Information	1198 El Camino Real
Building Department	650.757.8888
Business Licenses	The Business License Year begins October 1st and ends September 30th of the following year. In order to process all Business License Tax Certificate Applications, the completed application and any other forms and information necessary must be returned with the proper fee enclosed. The minimum $100 tax is nonrefunadable. If total gross receipts are $100,000 or less, then the Business License Tax is $100. If total gross receipts are $100,001 or more, then the Business License Tax is 0.001% of total gross receipts.
City Clerk	650.997.8300
City Hall	1198 El Camino Real
Finance Department	650.997.8317
Fire Department	(650) 991-8138
Home Offices	If you have a home based business, you must apply for a Home Occupation Permit with the Planning Department before obtaining a Business License.
Planning Department	650.985.2590
Point of Sale Requirements
Smoke Detectors	Follow State Requirements. You may also access the California Association of Realtors(R) Legal Q&As regarding Smoke Detector Requirements. You will need your Member ID # and password to access this information.

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City Information	333 90th St (650) 991-8088 for Business Licenses
Airport Noise Insulation Program	333 90th St Marina Anaya (650) 991-8068 Email: manaya@dalycity.org
Building Department	(650) 991-8061
Business Licenses	The Business License Year begins October 1st and ends September 30th of the following year. In order to process all Business License Tax Certificate Applications, the completed application and any other forms and information necessary must be returned with the proper fee enclosed. The minimum $100 tax is nonrefunadable.
City Clerk	(650) 991-8078
City Hall	333 90th St
Finance Department	650) 991-8082
Fire Department	(650) 991-8138 (North County Fire Authority Administrative Headquarters)
Home Office	If you have a home based business, you must apply for a Home Occupation Permit with the Planning Department before obtaining a Business License.
Planning Department	(650) 991-8033
Point of Sale Ordinances	. Residential Buildings of Less Than 3 Units. Daly City Ordinance No. 992 requires that prior to entering into an “Agreement of Sale” or exchange of a residential building of less than three units, the owner or authorized representative shall obtain from the City a report of the residential building record (3R) showing the regularly authorized use, occupancy and zoning classification of such property.
Sign Ordinance	No permit required. Limit to one sign per property or business. Off-site and A-frames allowed provided that they are removed by sundown each day and limited to the minimum necessary for directional purposes. A-frames may identify the owner or agent’s name, address and telephone number but must not otherwise be used to identify or advertise real estate offices or businesses. Sign must not exceed 4 square feet in a residential zone or 12 square feet in any other zoning district. Real estate signs must be placed on the offered property and must be removed within 30 days after the sale, rental or lease of the property.
Smoke Detectors	Follow State Requirements. You may also access the California Association of Realtors® Legal Q&As regarding Smoke Detector Requirements. You will need your Member ID # and password to access this information.
Water Heaters	Water Heaters: Upon the sale of a house, City ordinance requires the water heater, if located in the garage, to be raised 18 inches from the garage floor to the flame or from the element capable of generating a glow or spark. This work requires a permit.

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City Information
Building Department	(650) 286-3227
Business Licenses	Tax for entire business (not for individual agents): Gross receipts of less than $33,333 a year, business license tax is $25.00. Receipts more than $33,333.01, business license tax is .00075%. For both categories, add a $22.70 per year processing fee. Maximum tax is $3750.00.
City Clerk	(650) 286-3250
City Hall	(650) 286-3200
Finance Department	(650) 286-3200
Planning Department	(650) 286-3232
Point of Sale Ordinances	Leased land on some properties requires special disclosures.
Sign Ordinance	No permit required. Limit to one real estate sign on property for sale, rent or lease. Sign must not exceed 4 square feet in area. Sign must be mounted on a post or A-Frame and can not be illuminated. Up to 4 additional “open house” signs may also exhibit directional arrows and instructions on weekends, holidays and on one weekday per week (multiple listing service tour day) on other private property with the owner’s permission. No more than 3 such “open house” directional real estate signs allowed on any single property or 6 such signs located within forty feet of an intersection. Signs are not allowed on sidewalks, streets, medians, public right-of-way, or where they interfere with automobile sight distance, nor may they be taped, wired, glued, tied or in any way attached to light poles, street signs or any public property.
Smoke Detectors	Follow State Requirements. You may also access the California Association of Realtors® Legal Q&As regarding Smoke Detector Requirements. You will need your Member ID # and password to access this information.

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Building Department	(650) 726-8260
Business Licenses
City Clerk	(650) 726-8271
City Hall	501 Main St
Finance Department	(650) 726-8283
Fire Department	(650) 726-5213
Planning Department	(650) 726-8250
Sign Ordinance	No permit required. Limit to two signs per parcel. Signs are permitted within 5 feet of the front property line, providing that no single sign face exceeds 4 square feet for each single-family home or duplex, and 16 square feet for a multiple-family use. Sign height may not exceed 5 feet, nor project into any required building setback area. A-frame and off-site are prohibited. Signs must be removed 5 days after close of transaction.
Smoke Detectors	Point-of-sale smoke detector inspections are required for all existing Group R Division 3 Occupancies (does not include mobile homes) in Half Moon Bay, El Granada, Miramar, Princeton, Moss Beach, and Montara. The Coastside Fire Protection District, located in the San Mateo County coastal area of California, serves Half Moon Bay, El Granada, Miramar, Princeton, Moss Beach, and Montara. CFPD can be reached at 650.726.5213. You may also access the California Association of Realtors® Legal Q&As regarding Smoke Detector Requirements. You will need your Member ID # and password to access this information.

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Building Department	(650) 375-7411
Business Licenses	The Hillsborough Municipal Code provides for the annual registration and licensing of Realtors doing business in the Town of Hillsborough. The Annual Realtor Business Licensing Registration must be completed with an additional $25.00 payment for each designated Realtor. As well, a broker must complete and file a Real Estate Broker Business License Application with an additional $100 processing fee prior to commencing business.
City Clerk	(650) 375-7400
City Hall	1600 Floribunda Ave
Design Review Process
Finance Department	(650) 375-7400
Fire Department	(650) 558-7615
Home Offices	A home business is one that is conducted from a resident’s dwelling in the town and provides goods or services for compensation, including but not limited to, the services performed by sales representatives; provided, however, that a home business does not include activities conducted in the resident’s dwelling that are merely incidental to a business that is conducted outside of town. Home Business Permit annual fee is $125, due upon receipt of application. The business license year begins on July 1, 2008 and ends June 30, 2009.
Planning Department	(650) 375-7411
Point of Sale Requirements	Sewer Lateral and Water Service Testing Procedure and Requirements: Ordinance No. 685, amending Hillsborough Municipal Code (HMC) Section 13.32.110, requires the testing and inspection of sewer laterals and water services including inspecting for the presence of an operational UPC- approved backflow prevention device (when required), whenever title to an improved parcel of land within the Town of Hillsborough is transferred. It is the responsibility of the owner of the property served by the subject sewer lateral and water service connection (hereinafter, the “Property Owner”) to determine if testing is required. Testing shall not be required if, within the two (2) year period immediately preceding the proposed transfer of title, either (i) such parcel has been successfully tested and inspected or (ii) there has been no additional construction, connections or repair done since such testing and inspection or since such residence was newly constructed, and provided further that no other specific factor or condition is present requiring testing and inspection per HMC Section 13.32.110 B. If testing is required, the Property Owner shall obtain a Plumbing permit and perform the test. When work in the right-of-way will be necessary, an Encroachment permit shall also be obtained. Testing and inspection shall be performed as follows: 1.) Sewer Lateral Test: Each sewer lateral shall be tested, including a video inspection between the sewer main and the building structure (the principal residence), however, where a sewer lateral connects with the sewer main in a street right-of-way, the water exfiltration test shall only be required between the property line and the building structure, unless the sewer lateral connects directly to a manhole structure, in which case the water exfiltration test shall be required for the entire lateral. The visual inspection shall be completed between the property line cleanout and the main using an approved video recording device. In addition, all accessory building laterals connected to the building sewer shall be tested. If cleanout do not exist at the points where testing is required, they shall be installed by and at the expense of the Property Owner. If a property's sewer lateral crosses the private property of a third party before connecting with the sewer main, the entire lateral up to the sewer main is to be tested by the Property Owner (and not said third party owner) and if necessary, repaired, subject to the provision above. Testing of sewer lateral may be accomplished by either a water exfiltration or low pressure air test. A two week review period will be necessary for all video inspections. The homeowner may make a cash deposit in the amount of $10.00 in lieu of waiting for conclusion of video review. This deposit will be held until the conclusion of the repairs or the video inspection shows that the sewer lateral is deemed satisfactory. a. Water Exfiltration Test: The contractor shall furnish all materials and equipment required. The contractor shall plug the lateral and riser at the property line cleanout or sewer main manhole. The lateral shall be surcharged with water to a point equal to the foundation grade (floor joist level) or slab floor level. The minimum height of the water level shall be two (2) feet above the lateral at the property line cleanout. If there are any fixtures inside the structure lower than the testing water level, the contractor shall plug the fixtures or the lateral at the building. An approved back-flow prevention device shall be installed by the Property Owner if there are any plumbing fixtures who level is below the property line cleanout. b. Low Pressure Air Test: The contractor shall furnish all materials and equipment required. Air test equipment shall be of a type satisfactory to the Town to properly perform the required test. The contractor shall clean the pipe and plug the lateral at the building and property line cleanouts or manhole. Air shall be slowly supplied to the plugged lateral until the internal air pressure reaches 4.0 pounds per square inch (psi) greater than the average back pressure of any groundwater that may submerge the pipe. The air pressure shall be regulated by a suitable regulator valve. At least two minutes shall be allowed for temperature stabilization before proceeding further. The rate of air loss shall then be determined by measuring the time interval for the internal pressure to decrease from 3.5 to 2.5 psi. The lateral shall be considered acceptable if the time interval measured for the internal pressure to drop from 3.5 to 2.5 psi is within the parameters listed below: Nominal Pipe Size (inches) / Time Interval (minutes/100 ft) 3 / 0.2 || 4 / 0.3 || 6 / 0.7 2.) Water Service Test: Each water service is required to have a water meter isolation valve located approximately one foot behind the meter box on the homeowner's side of the meter and a pressure regulator located on the property. If either one does not exist, it shall be installed at the Property Owner's expense. Testing of the water service shall be accomplished in the following manner: A pressure gauge shall be installed on the water service and the water meter isolation valve shall be turned off at the water meter. If the water meter isolation valve is not functional, a new valve shall be installed by the Property Owner. Observance of Tests: The tests shall be conducted in the presence of an authorized Town representative. After obtaining the required plumbing permit, an appointment may be scheduled by contacting the Building Department at 650.375.7411. The contractor is encouraged to pre-test the sewer lateral and water service prior to scheduling an inspection to determine if repairs will be necessary requiring additional permits, i.e., sewer lateral repairs/replacement, backflow devices, cleanouts, isolation valve and/or pressure regulator valves. Certification: If the sewer lateral and water service pass the tests, they shall be certified as acceptable by the Town and the transfer of title can proceed without further action. The certification shall be filed by the Building Department and shall be good for two (2) years from the date of certification (unless a specific factors or condition occurs or is observed requiring testing and inspection per HMC Section 13.32.110 B). 3.) Smoke Detectors When title to any dwelling, guest cottage, etc., located within the town of Hillsborough is to be transferred to or vested in any other person, persons, or entity, smoke detectors must be installed in accordance with the provisions of this code. The installation will be the joint responsibility of the transferor and transferee. Hillsborough Municipal Code, see 15.04.140 Fire Warning System 4.) Chimney Spark Arrester Immediately prior to the sale or transfer of property, an inspection of all chimneys located on such property must be made and filed with the fire department. Each chimney must have a spark arrester, either internally or externally mounted. Statement of Compliance Document Hillsborough Municipal Code, see Chapter 15.20, Section 15.20.080 Chimney Spark Arresters 5.) Wooden Decks The underside of all wooden decks located on property that both has a slope greater than 10% and is contiguous to property designated as town 'open space' must be protected by fire resistive construction in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 15.04. This requirement must be met immediately prior to the sale or transfer of any real property on which such a deck is located. Hillsborough Municipal Code, see 15.20.130 Wooden Decks
Sign Ordinance	No permit required. Limit to one sign per property. Signs are only allowed on private property with permission of the private property owner or occupant, as appropriate. Sign must only consist of black letters, symbols or artwork on a white background setting forth the name, address, phone number, and logo of person or firm, and words “for sale.” Sign must not exceed 12 inches by 15 inches. Sign may be posted once the owner has decided to offer the property for sale and must be removed no later than 1 week after such transaction has been completed or the effort abandoned or the listing expired. Hillsborough Municipal Code, see 17.48.040 Real estate and contractors’ signs

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Building Department	Inspection requests can be made by calling 650-259-2330, Monday - Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon.
Business Licences	This business license application must be approved before a business license can be issued. No business activity can be conducted until a business license has been issued. It is the responsibility of the applicant to maintain an active license by renewing the license each year. Brokers: $210 - Agents: $53-- Agents: $53
City Clerk	(650) 259-2334
City Hall	621 Magnolia Ave
Finance Department	(650) 259-2352
Fire Department	(650) 259-2406
Home Offices	The City of Millbrae allows residents to operate a business from their home once a City Business License and Home Occupation Permit have been obtained. This type of commercial business activity from a residence is described in Section 10-1.201 of the Millbrae City Code as a Home Occupation use. Because residential areas are designated for peaceful home life type atmosphere and commercial activities create noise, parking and traffic problems, Home Occupations are subject to the following conditions: 1. No advertising signs. 2. No displays. 3. No stock or commodity stored or sold on the premises. 4. No customers. 5. No parking or business vehicles other than a private vehicle used by the dwelling occupant for transportation to and from work. No parking of employees or customers vehicles. 6. No mechanical or electrical equipment designed to be used in connection with a business use other than that normally found in a home that is necessary or convenient for domestic purposes. Information regarding the above conditions should be directed to the Community Development Department at 650-259-2341
Planning Department	(650) 259-2443 and (650) 259-2346
Point of Sale Requirements	1. Airport Noise Disclosure For property located in the city of Millbrae, the following information is required to be disclosed in connection with sales of residential dwellings: 1. The city of Millbrae is immediately adjacent to the San Francisco International Airport. 2. The San Francisco International Airport is the fifth largest airport by volume in the United States and the seventh largest by volume in the world. 3. The property is subject to noise from aircraft. For property located within the 65 CNEL Aircraft Noise Footprint, based upon the Federal Aviation Administration (“FAA”) 1983 CNEL Noise Exposure Map, the following disclosures must be made in connection with sales of residential dwellings: 1. The property is located within the 65 CNEL Aircraft Noise Footprint of the 1983 FAA CNEL Noise Exposure Map for Millbrae, California. 2. If the property is constructed after January 1, 1983, or is renovated at a cost equal to twenty-five percent or more of the current market value of the home, it must be insulated against aircraft noise to meet FAA noise insulation program standards. Millbrae Municipal Code, see Chapter 10.40 Mandatory Real Estate Transfer Disclosure Regarding Airport Noise
Sign Ordinance	No permit required. On-premise sign: Limit to one sign per address for each street abutting the premises. Sign must not exceed 4 square feet in area and 6 feet in height in an R-1 and R-2 zoning districts. All other districts are permitted 9 square feet of area and 6 feet of height if sign is placed on a pole. The sign must be displayed on the subject property and is limited to the period that such premise is held for sale, rent or lease, and not more than 15 days thereafter. Off-site signs: Two off-site signs are permitted per address signs and must not exceed 4 square feet in area. Signs may only be displayed between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. when the open house is held. Signs must be placed on private property; however, if private property is not physically available, 1 of the 2 signs may be placed on public property in a safe manner that does not obstruct or interfere with pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
Smoke Detectors	Follow State Requirements. You may also access the California Association of Realtors(R) Legal Q&As regarding Smoke Detector Requirements. You will need your Member ID # and password to access this information. 2. Smoke Detector: Operable smoke detectors are required and must be verified by written documentation or inspection in all R-3 occupancies when any transfer or sale of real property occurs. Said documention shall be provided by the Sellers Agent to the Millbrae Fire Department. Millbrae Municipal Code, see Chapter 9.30 Fire Code; 9.30.150 Amendment of Section 907, Section 907.2.10.5.1.1. 3. Spark Arrestors Every chimney must have a spark arrestor, either internally or externally mounted. All chimneys will be retroactively protected when one or more of the following conditions exist: i. Upon the sale or transfer of real property, the transfer of title can not be made until each chimney has a spark arrestor properly installed and in proper working order. Written proof of installation or of existing condition must be made by the Selling agent to the Millbrae Fire Department. ii. In the event of any construction on such property for which a building permit is required, the final building permit sign off must not be made until a Fire Official or his designee has verified through documentation or inspection that a spark arrestor has been installed and is in proper working order.

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City Information	170 Santa Maria Ave
Airport Noise Insulation	(650) 827-3900
Building Department	(650)-738-7344
Business Licenses	$100 per office and employing broker; $25 for each additional agent/broker salesperson.
City Clerk	(650) 738-7307
City Hall	(650) 738-7300
Finance Department	(650) 738-7392
Fire Department	(650) 991-8138
Home Offices	When your business office is in your home, an application for a Home Occupation Permit plus a business license is required. A $25.00 one-time fee is charged for the Home Occupation Permit. If you DO NOT own your home you must obtain written permission from your landlord or owner of the property. Bring your written permission with you as we must keep a copy of it on file. If you have any questions regarding the Home Occupation Permit, the Permit Technician would be happy to help you. Call (650) 738-7341.
Planning Department	(650) 738-7341
Points of Sale Requirements	Airport Noise Disclosure: For property located in the City, the following information is required to be disclosed in connection with sales of residential dwellings:
Sign Ordinance	No permit required. Limit to one sign per property or business. Real estate sign must not exceed 6 square feet. A-frames used for real estate purposes are allowed. Such signs are allowed off the site provided that they are removed by sundown each day and are limited to the minimum necessary for directional purposes. A-frames must not be used to identify or advertise real estate offices or business. Real estate sign placed on the offered property must be removed within 30 days after the sale, rental, or lease of the subject property.
Smoke Detectors	Follow State Requirements.You may also access the California Association of Realtors® Legal Q&As regarding Smoke Detector Requirements. You will need your Member ID # and password to access this information.

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Building Department	(650) 738-7350
Business Tax	For Real Estate Brokers: $24.00 per each salesperson or employee plus $37.00 base tax For Residential Property Rental: $13.00 per dwelling unit in excess of 3 plus $37.00 base tax
City Clerk	(650) 780-7220
City Hall	1017 Middlefield Rd
Finance Department	(650) 780-7070 (650) 780-7073
Fire Department	(650) 780-7400
Planning Department	(650) 780-7234
Sign Ordinance	No permit required. A maximum of 4 signs total for both on-site and off-site locations. Each sign must be removed within 10 days following the close of escrow on the sale or exchange of the property, the execution of a lease or the withdrawal of the property from the market, or the completion of the economic transaction proposed by the sign. Portable signs may be displayed at off-site locations, so long as they are on private property with the property owner's consent. Directional signs must not exceed 4 square feet and 4 feet in height. Signs must not be placed in a manner as to constitute a traffic hazard or an obstruction of view for drivers. Residential Real Estate Signs: Freestanding signs located on property with 4 or more units must not exceed 32 square feet in area and 15 feet in height, while a property with less than 4 units must not exceed 12 square feet in area and 6 feet in height. Portable signs must not exceed 3 feet in width and 3 feet in height. Wall signs or window signs located on property with 4 or more units must not exceed 12 square feet in area, while a property with less than 4 unites must not exceed 4 square. On-site: Real estate signs may be displayed on residential property. Properties with 4 or more unites are limited to 1 sign of each type displayed per street frontage. Properties with less than 4 units are limited to 1 sign of either type per premise. Nonresidential Real Estate Signs: Freestanding signs located on property with 100 feet or more of linear frontage must not exceed 64 square feet in area and 15 feet in height, while property with less than 100 feet of linear frontage must not exceed 32 square feet in area and 6 feet in height. Portable signs must not exceed 9 square feet in area, 3 feet in width, and 3 feet in height. Wall signs or window signs located on property 100 feet or more of linear frontage must not exceed 64 square feet in area, while properties with less than 100 feet of linear frontage must not exceed 32 square feet in area. On-site: properties with 100 feet or more of street frontage is limited to 1 of each freestanding and wall sign per street frontage. Properties with less than 100 feet of linear frontage is limited to 1 sign of either freestanding or wall sign.
Smoke Detectors	Follow State Requirements. You may also access the California Association of Realtors® Legal Q&As regarding Smoke Detector Requirements. You will need your Member ID # and password to access this information. Also, at the time of sale, a smoke detector is required in every sleeping room and corridor / hallway leading to the sleeping rooms. If there is more than one level, one smoke detector is required per level.

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Airport Noise Insulation	(650) 827-3900
Building Department	(650) 616-7076
Business Tax	1. Business Tax Certificate Application Business tax based on gross receipts (schedule of taxes), plus $36 application fee, $125 business compliance fee and $155 fire inspection fee. 2. Apartment Rental / Rooming Tax Form Application fee: $36 Base fee: $50 Per studio apartment: $3 Per 1 bedroom apartment: $3 Per 2 bedroom apartment: $4 Per 3 bedroom apartment: $5
City Clerk	(650) 616-7058
City Hall	567 El Camino Real
Finance Department	(650) 616-7086
Fire Department	(650) 616-7096
Home Offices
Planning Department	(650) 616-7074

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Points of Sale Requirements

A. The following information is required to be disclosed in connection with sales of residential dwellings: 1. At their closest point, dwelling units within the city of San Bruno are located approximately one quarter of a mile from the San Francisco International Airport's outer perimeter of its developed area. At their farthest point, dwelling units within the city of San Bruno are located approximately four miles from the San Francisco International Airport's outer perimeter of its developed area; 2. San Francisco International Airport is the fifth largest airport by volume in the United States and the seventh largest by volume in the world; 3. The property is subject to noise from aircraft overflight; 4. The attached map outlines the 1983 FAA 65 CNEL Noise Contour. After January 1, 1993, for any dwelling unit located within the contour area, if the subject property is constructed or reconstructed after its total or partial destruction, or is reconstructed or renovated in the future at a cost equal to twenty-five percent or more of the current market value of the home, it must be insulated against aircraft noise to meet FAA noise insulation program standards; and 5. If the subject property has already received noise insulation pursuant to the FAA Noise Insulation Program, the owner may not deliberately or wilfully act to reduce or destroy the effectiveness of the noise mitigation measures. (Ord. 1646 § 1(part), 2001) San Bruno Municipal Code, see 6.18.020 Disclosure.

Sign Ordinance

No permit required. Signs may only advertise the sale or lease of premises on which they are placed, or provide directions to premises which are for sale or lease. Directional signs are permitted but they must not be placed in a manner as to unreasonably obstruct or interfere with the free passage or view of the traffic by motorists, pedestrians or other persons using such right-of-way. Signs must not exceed 4 square feet. Signs advertising the sale of a single-family lot, condominium community apartment, or stock cooperative subdivision or project may be displayed on the site of the subdivision or project for a period not exceeding one year. San Bruno Municipal Code, see Chapter 12.104 Signs

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Smoke Detectors

Follow State Requirements. You may also access the California Association of Realtors® Legal Q&As regarding Smoke Detector Requirements. You will need your Member ID # and password to access this information. No inspection is required, however, a smoke detector must be installed: In each sleeping room. A point centrally located in the corridor or area giving access to each sleeping area (Hallway). On each level of the dwelling, including basement. Per manufacturer’s requirements.

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City Information	600 Elm St
Building Department	(650) 802-4261
Business Licenses	Real Estate Offices and Agents/Brokers: $72 plus $28 per owner/employee with a minimum fee of $136. Property Management/Rental: $72 plus $28 per owner/employee with a minimum fee of $136. Apartments: 1-2 apartments = no charge 3 or more, base fee = $72 + additional $22 each
City Clerk	(650) 802-4219
Finance Department	(650) 802-4213
Fire Department	(650) 802-4255
Home Offices	Please see the City of San Carlos’ Home Occupation Conditions for approval.
Planning Department	(650) 802-4263
Sign Ordinance	No permit required. Limit to one sign posted upon each property advertising it for sale, not to exceed 6 square feet for each lot. Open house (directional signs) may only provide information and direction to the view and must not contain an advertising message. Off-site open house signs must not exceed 4 square feet in are per side (8 square feet total) and 3 feet in height. Single-sided signs must not exceed 4 square feet in area. Off-site signs may be placed in the public right-of-way or on private property only in the following matter: 1. The sign must not be placed on the sidewalk or in the street. 2. The sign may be placed in a park strip where not impairing vehicular visibility or pedestrian movement. 3. The sign may be placed behind the sidewalk on public property when not impairing vehicular visibility or pedestrian movement. 4. The sign may be placed on private property with written permission from the owner. 5. The sign can be displayed during daytime hours, and only when an open house is in progress. Signs must be removed by dusk. San Carlos Municipal Code, see Chapter 18.150
Smoke Detectors	Follow State Requirements. You may also access the California Association of Realtors® Legal Q&As regarding Smoke Detector Requirements. You will need your Member ID # and password to access this information.

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Building Department	(650) 522-7172
Business Licenses	Please visit the City of San Mateo’s Business Taxes link to get the appropriate Business License Tax application. Most real estate offices will need to complete a Flat Fee Form.
City Clerk	(650) 522-7040
City Hall	330 W 20th Ave
Finance Department	(650) 522-7113
Fire Department	(650) 522-7940
Home Offices
Planning Department	(650) 522-7202
Sign Ordinance	No permit required. Signs must be erected or maintained with the consent of the owner of the real property or the person or entity in legal possession of the real property. Freestanding signs must not exceed the maximum height of 6 feet above grade, and must not exceed 6 square feet. San Mateo Municipal Code, see Title XXV Signs
Smoke Detectors	Follow State Requirements. You may also access the California Association of Realtors(R) Legal Q&As regarding Smoke Detector Requirements. You will need your Member ID # and password to access this information. Also, smoke detectors must be: on each level of the house in each hallway that leads to a bedroom in each bedroom. House must be in compliance at time of sale, or when improvements are made that require a building permit. The Fire Department will do inspections for $36.00 upon request.

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Clerk-Assessor-Recorder	(650) 363-4500
Planning & Building Division	(650) 363-4161
Public Works	(650) 363-4100
Registrar of Voters	(650) 312-5222
Tax Collector- Treasurer	(650) 363-4142

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Airport Noise Insulation	(650) 877-8600
Building Department	(650) 829-6670
Business Licenses	$150 per individual, $125 for each associate, partner, or member of the professional corporation.
City Clerk	(650) 877-8518
City Hall	400 Grand Ave
Finance Department	(650) 877-8507
Fire Department	(650) 829-3950
Home Offices
Planning Department	(650) 877-8535
Point of Sale Requirements
Sign Ordinance	No permit required. Limited to one sign per parcel. Sign may only be placed upon the property by either the owner or by a person having the written authority to do so. Rest Estate signs must be erected parallel to the street upon which they face. If parcel is located in a: (a) Residential Zone: Sign must not exceed 4 square feet. (b) Nonresidential Zone: Sign must not exceed 6 square feet. (c) Commercial Zone: If parcel is 100 linear feet or more of public street frontage and at least 1 or more acre in site area then Sign must not exceed 20 square feet or 2 signs not each exceeding 10 square feet in area. (d) Industrial Zone: If parcel is 100 linear feet or more of public street frontage and at least 1 or more acres in site area then sign must not exceed 50 square feet or 2 signs not each exceeding 25 square feet in area. (e) Undeveloped Sites: Each parcel is permitted 1 sign not exceeding 28 square feet in area. However, if parcel is larger than 3 acres in size, 2 such signs may be place if at least 500 feet apart. Sign must only contain the words “For Sale”, “For Rent”, “For Lease” or words of similar import and the name, address and telephone number of the person to contact in connection therewith and whether the person to be contacted is the owner or broker. All such signs must be maintained in continuous good order and repair. Must be removed with 15 days after close of escrow, rental or lease has been accomplished. South San Francisco Municipal Code, see Chapter 20.76.090
Smoke Detectors	Follow State Requirements. You may also access the California Association of Realtors(R) Legal Q&As regarding Smoke Detector Requirements. You will need your Member ID # and password to access this information. The South San Francisco Fire Department requires that the homeowner schedule a smoke detector inspection prior to selling their home. Schedule an inspection by calling our Fire Prevention Division at 829-6645. Chapter 15.08 California Building Code - Smoke Detectors Section310.16.3 (a). On or after January 1, 1986, every single-family dwelling and factory built housing, as defined in section 19971 of the Health and Safety Code, which is sold shall have an operable smoke detector. The detector shall be approved and listed by the state fire marshal and installed in accordance with section 310.9.1.4 A battery-operated smoke detector shall be deemed to satisfy the requirements of this section. (Ord. 1255 2 (part), 1999) South San Francisco Municipal Code, Section310.16.3 (a) California Building Code. The South San Francisco Fire department is responsible for code enforcement activities. In addition to the smoke detector, the following items will be inspected when a smoke detector inspection is scheduled: 1)Water Heaters (should be strapped, and raised 18 inches) 2)Quick release safety bars on windows.

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Business Licenses	Business licenses not required.
Point of Sale Requirements	Moss Beach & Montara All homes required to be inspected and signed off by fire department at point of sale. Please call (650) 726-5213. Fee is $15. One is required in every sleeping room and one on every level.
Sewer information on the coast	1. Granada Sanitary District -- 726-7093 2. Montara Sanitary District -- 728-3545
Sign Ordinance	In “R” or residential districts: No permit needed. Only allowed on private property not to exceed 6 sq. ft. for all signs on parcel.
Smoke Detectors	Follow State Requirements. You may also access the California Association of Realtors® Legal Q&As regarding Smoke Detector Requirements. You will need your Member ID # and password to access this information. If built after 1990, 1) Smoke detectors must be line powered and battery backed up. 2) All smoke detectors must be interconnected, so that if one sounds, they all sound.
Underground Tanks	County requires removal of un-used underground storage tanks of less than 1100 gallons -- call the Dept. of Environmental Health Services at 650-363-4305.