Who Should I Contact?
Emergencies: call 9-1-1
Non-emergency numbers are located on the first page of your phone book and throughout this website. Do not call 911 for non-emergencies — it ties up resources that may be needed to save lives.
Animals
Animal Control and Shelter
Animals running at large are prohibited. Animal owners shouldn't allow their animals to disturb any person by barking or howling. Persons disturbed by an animal may sign a formal complaint. For more information, or to make a complaint about an animal disturbance, please call (831) 758-7285, or after hours, call the non-emergency Police number (831) 758-7321. Stray animals may be brought to the Salinas Animal Shelter or you can call for pickup. You can also call the shelter to pick up deceased animals.
Please call Animal Services at (831) 758-7285 to pickup injured animals. If it's after hours, call the non-emergency Police number (831) 758-7321. Please do not call 911. Do not attempt to help an injured animal, especially a wild one since they will fight and possibly harm you.
Wildlife reports should be directed to the SPCA at (831) 422-4721.
Barking Dog Complaint
Under normal circumstances, you should call Animal Services at (831) 758-7285 for assistance if barking dogs are disturbing your peace. Members of Animal Services are available to contact offending neighbors during the daytime and take action, if necessary, to quell the noise disturbance. You may call their office at (831) 758-7285 at anytime to report a barking dog. If they are not available at the time of your call, you can leave a message stating your name, address, phone number, the location of the dog, along with a brief description of what is occurring. An animal control officer will then attempt to contact the owner of the animal to warn them of the violation.
In situations that cannot wait, and if you are willing to press charges, you may call the Police Department for assistance. If you decide to call the Police Department, please use the non-emergency number (831) 758-7321. Please do not call 911. When you call the Police Department you will be asked several questions in addition to getting your name, address and telephone number. The person you talk to will also ask if you are willing to press charges or if you are willing to speak with an officer directly.
Dog Licenses
Dog licenses may be purchased at the Finance Department located in City Hall or at the Animal Shelter at 144 Hitchcock Road during business hours. All dogs four (4) months of age and over residing within the City limits must be licensed. Dogs must have a current rabies certificate in order to get a license. The license term varies based on the length of the rabies vaccination. For more information concerning dog licenses, such as fees and other requirements, please visit Animal Services (831) 758-7285.
Buildings, Structures, and Street Lights
Accessory Structures
The use of accessory structures such as a garage, patio or shed for human habitation is not permitted in the City. Visit Code Enforcement or call (831) 758-7157 to report a violation or find more information.
Addresses on Buildings
Each building must have address numbers displayed. These numbers must be at least six (6) inches in height and placed on the building in such a manner that the number is clearly visible from the public right-of-way. Identification of premises is very important for emergency responses by the Police and Fire Departments. For more information visit Permit Services at (831) 758-7251.
Building Permits
Building Permits are required for safety reasons for most home improvements including lawn and fire sprinkler systems, patio covers, spas, most decks, interior remodeling, carports, retaining walls, etc. Prior to starting a new project, always visit Permit Services or call at (831) 758-7251.
Fences
The City’s fence regulations strive to encourage variety and flexibility in design, development, and maintenance of fences and walls, to permit increased use of yard areas, as well as to establish the heights of such fences and walls to maintain clear site distances. Fence height is regulated depending on where the fence is located on the property. In general, no fence should exceed six (6) feet in height without first obtaining a Building Permit. Barbed wire, razor wire, ultra barrier, electrified, and other hazardous fences are not permitted in any residential district. If the erection of walls or fences is proposed within 25 feet from a driveway or street corner, please visit Community Development or call (831) 758-7206 to ensure your proposal will have a safe line of sight. For questions about fence height and placement, please visit the Permit Center or call (831) 758-7521. For enforcement of "safe sight distances," please visit Code Enforcement or call (831) 758-7157.
Street Light Outages
When you notice a street light is out or needs repair, please contact Public Works Maintenance Services at (831) 758-7233. You will need the street address, and if possible, the pole number. The address is of the property where the pole is located, (i.e. the house or business) and the pole number is located on the street side of the pole about six (6) feet above the ground. You should see a three digit number or three numbers and a letter.
Garbage and Trash
Garbage
All occupied premises within the City are required by ordinance to have weekly garbage service. Republic Waste Services is the provider at (831) 775-3840. For more information or to report garbage accumulation, please visit the Monterey County Health Department or call (831) 755-4500.
For disposal of garbage or drop off for recycled materials, please call the Sun Street Transfer Station, 139 Sun Street, Salinas, at (831) 424-5535, Monday through Saturday 8am to 5pm. Information concerning the disposal of garbage, hazardous waste, or other refuse may be obtained from the Salinas Valley Solid Waste Authority at (831) 775-3000.
Low-income residents who are 65 years of age or older may be eligible for a reduced garbage rate of $4.25 per month, effective July 1, 2010. The income qualifications are based on household size and are listed on the back of the application form. If you would like to apply, please print and complete the application form and return the signed copy either by mail or in person to the City Clerk's office at 200 Lincoln Avenue, Salinas, CA 93901.
A refuse exemption form is available if a property is to be unoccupied for a long period of time. You may print and complete the form and mail it to the address indicated on the form. Please call (831) 758-7381 if you have any questions.
Trash, Junk, and Debris
The accumulation of garbage, trash, junk, and debris helps spread disease, harbor insects and rodents, and detracts from the appearance of your property, You can help control these problems by placing your trash in proper containers. Storing your trash and recycling containers out of public view helps enhance the visual image of the neighborhood and the quality of your community. The accumulation of garbage, trash, junk, and debris, including vehicle parts and equipment, is not allowed in a residential area, nor can it be stored outside. The burning of garbage, trash, junk, or other debris is also prohibited in the City of Salinas.
Trash and other debris may be taken to the following:
- Sun Street Transfer Station, 139 Sun Street, Salinas (831) 424-5535
- Madison Lane Transfer Station, 1120 Madison Lane, Salinas, (831) 754-2500
To report garbage, trash, junk, or debris; please call the Monterey County Health Department at (831) 755-4500.
Graffiti
To report an incident of graffiti, call and leave a message on the graffiti hotline at (831) 758-7926. If you observe vandals in the act of placing graffiti, please contact the Salinas Police Department at (831) 758-7321. Graffiti eradication is performed by Public Works Maintenance Services, their main office number is (831) 758-7233.
Hazardous Materials
Antifreeze, batteries, waste oil, paint, household cleaners should be disposed of properly and not included for disposal with your regular garbage service. These may not be buried on site, poured into storm drains, or down sewer lines. For the location of a facility where you can dispose of hazardous materials or to report violations; please contact the Household Hazardous Waste Facility at 139 Sun Street, (831) 424-5520. You may also contact the Salinas Valley Solid Waste Authority at (831) 755-1300 or Monterey County Environmental Health at (831) 755-4505.
Flammable Materials
Above ground tanks and bulk storage of flammable and combustible liquids is not permitted in a residential district. For further information or to report a violation, visit the Fire Department or call (831) 758-7261.
Illicit Discharges and Illegal Dumping
What we do on land affects the quality of water we drink and use in so many ways. Stormwater regulations define an "illicit discharge" as "any discharge to a municipal separate storm sewer that is not composed entirely of stormwater" (except discharges resulting from fire fighting activities and a few other categories). Common sources of non-stormwater, dry weather discharges in urban areas come from a variety or residential, commercial and industrial facilities, including apartments and homes, car washes, restaurants, gas stations, carpet cleaners and mobile pressure washing, to name but a few. These so called "generating sites" can cause water pollution from trash dumping, improper pet waste disposal and the discharge of grey water, sanitary sewer effluent, vehicle wash water, washdown from grease traps, motor oil, antifreeze, gasoline and fuel spills, among other substances. Residents who observe an illicit discharge, illegal dumping or observe pollutants within waterways or storm sewers should contact the City of Salinas, Environmental & Maintenance Services Office, (831) 758-7233, M-F, 8am-5pm. After hours, on weekends or holidays, call 911. For non-emergencies contact Environmental and Maintenance Services online.
Recycling Drop Off
Glass, aluminum, plastic, metal, appliances with refrigerant, cardboard, paper, shredded paper in clear plastic bags, used shoes and clothing, electronic waste, and porcelain can be dropped off at no charge at the Sun Street Transfer Station located at 139 Sun Street (831) 424-5535, Monday through Saturday, 8am to 5pm.
Homes and Neighborhoods
Home Businesses
Any activity, whether for pay or not, which creates a nuisance, or gives the appearance that a business is being conducted is prohibited. However, some home business activity may be allowed. Please be aware that every business, including home businesses, is required to pay a City business tax. This tax is a business tax, not a permit to conduct business. For further information about operating a business from a residence, please contact Community Development at (831) 758-7206. For information regarding City business taxes or a Business License, contact the Finance Department at (831) 758-7211.
Home Repair Loans
The City’s Housing Services Program offers low interest rate loans to qualifying lower-income residents for many home repairs. Rental properties are also eligible for housing rehabilitation loans – provided the occupant(s) are lower income. Handicap accessibility grants are also available. Contact Community Development at (831) 758-7334 for more information.
Landscaping
Improperly maintained planting on private property can be a hazard to life, limb, and property. Generally, landscaping needs to be appropriately spaced so it does not interfere with the adequate lighting of the premises or restrict access to emergency apparatus, such as fire hydrants. Planting of trees and large shrubs shall not interfere with the "safe sight distance" for vehicles, bicycles, or pedestrian traffic. If landscaping is proposed within 25 feet from a driveway or street corner, please contact Permit Services at (831) 758-7206 to ensure your proposal will have a safe line of sight.
Weed Abatement
Salinas Municipal Code Sections 14-22 through 14-32 prohibits the owner or other person(s) in control of any real property within the City of Salinas from allowing any weeds or grass to attain such a large growth as to become a fire menace when dry, or which are otherwise noxious or dangerous,to grow, stand or remain upon such real property or upon any street or sidewalk in front of such real property.
The Code further prevents an owner or other person(s) in control of any real property within the City of Salinas from allowing any rubbish, refuse, trash, debris or dirt to stand or remain upon such lot, any street, parkway or sidewalk in front of such real property.
The City of Salinas conducts an active weed and debris abatement program throughout the year. If a property owner fails to clear their parcel of the weeds and/or debris once notified, the City will have the work done by a commercial contractor and bill for the charges incurred, plus an additional 25% administrative fee. If the City is forced to clear your property and the charges remain unpaid, a lien against your property will be recorded.
If you are notified to clear you property, specifications including minimum standards and methods of abatement will be provided by the City. Questions regarding the weed and debris abatement program may be directed to Code Enforcement at (831) 758-7119.
Noise and Disturbances
Barking Dog Complaint
Under normal circumstances, you should call Animal Services at (831) 758-7285 for assistance if barking dogs are disturbing your peace. Members of Animal Services are available to contact offending neighbors during the daytime and take action, if necessary, to quell the noise disturbance. You may call their office at (831) 758-7285 at anytime to report a barking dog. If they are not available at the time of your call, you can leave a message stating your name, address, phone number, the location of the dog, along with a brief description of what is occurring. An animal control officer will then attempt to contact the owner of the animal to warn them of the violation.
In situations that cannot wait, and if you are willing to press charges, you may call the Police Department for assistance. If you decide to call the Police Department, please use the non-emergency number (831) 758-7321. Please do not call 911. When you call the Police Department you will be asked several questions in addition to getting your name, address and telephone number. The person you talk to will also ask if you are willing to press charges or if you are willing to speak with an officer directly.
Loud Parties
If someone is having a loud party in your neighborhood you may contact the Salinas Police Department for assistance by using the non-emergency number (831) 758-7321. Please do not call 911. When you call the police you will be asked several questions including your name, address and telephone number. The person you talk to will also ask if you are willing to press charges or if you are willing to speak with an officer directly. We recommend you provide the dispatcher with your name, address and telephone number even if you do not want to press charges or be contacted. This will help us if other calls are received about the same party.
Noise Complaints
In residential districts, it is unlawful to permit, maintain, or allow noise levels to exceed common levels with items such as power mowers, trimmers, home workshops, and home construction. It is also unlawful to create and emit these noise levels between the hours of 9:00 p.m. of one day and 7:00 a.m. of the following day.
If you decide to call the Salinas Police Department, use the non-emergency number (831) 758-7321. Do not call 911. When you call the police you will be asked several questions including your name, address and telephone number. The person you talk to will also ask if you are willing to press charges or if you are willing to speak with an officer directly. We recommend you provide the dispatcher with your name, address and telephone number even if you do not want to press charges or be contacted. This will help us if other calls are received about the same party. This will help us if other calls are received about the same noise disturbance.
Vehicles
Parking Tickets
For more information visit the Parking Citation page or call (800) 989-2058. Questions concerning how to pay a ticket, dispute a ticket, and the cost of a parking ticket may be addressed at this number.
You may request an Administrative Review document on the Parking Citation page or by contacting the Salinas Police Department at (831) 758-7224. If you reach an answering machine; please leave your name, address, phone number, date, and citation number. You will receive an administrative review form by mail.
Please Note: Payment or an Administrative Review request is required within 21 days or further penalties will be assessed. Vehicle registration will be withheld if payment or a review request has not been made. Unpaid violations may result in impoundment and/or booting of the vehicle.
Vehicles - Abandoned and Inoperative
The Abandoned Vehicle Office hours are Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. The phone number, day or night, is (831) 758-7316. The following information will help you determine whether or not a vehicle has been abandoned or is a long-term parking problem. For more information about Abandoned Vehicles visit the Salinas Police Department.
Salinas City Municipal Code §20-49 (a&b) prohibits any vehicle from being parked upon any street or alley for more than 72 hours (3 days) at a time. In the event that a vehicle is parked in excess of this time period, the Police Department is authorized to issue a citation and/or remove such vehicle from the street.
When you report an abandoned vehicle to the Salinas Police Department, our personnel will respond and mark the vehicle as soon as possible. After 72 consecutive hours, the vehicle will be checked again. If the vehicle has not been moved, it will be removed as soon as possible.
Any vehicle parked on a City street or on public property must be currently registered and in working condition.
California Vehicle Code section 22669(d), prohibits any vehicle from being parked on the street or other public property with a major component missing. Major components include the engine, radiator, wheel(s), tire(s), window(s), door(s), etc. These vehicles will be towed as soon as possible.
Salinas City Municipal Code prohibits inoperable vehicles from being parked or stored on private property. A vehicle is considered inoperable if it is missing any major component, partially dismantled, or even if it is not registered. Such vehicles can be stored in a driveway or yard for 24 hours only. Inoperable vehicles may be stored indefinitely inside a garage however. To report violations, please contact Code Enforcement at (831) 758-7157.
Vehicles - Recreational
Recreational vehicles hooked-up to utility services and/or used for living and sleeping purposes in a residential district is prohibited. Not only is it a health hazard since sewer and water is not being properly disposed of; it is also a major safety concern. Temporary electrical hook-ups and recreational vehicles abutting fences and dwellings can cause access to and from the vehicle difficult in an emergency. To report a violation, please contact Code Enforcement at (831) 758-7157 and the Monterey County Health Department at (831) 755-4508.
Vehicle Parking
Parking regulations are designed to maintain and promote safety on our public streets. Parking vehicles on a paved surface helps prevent fluids and oil from seeping into the ground and contaminating the ground water. Parking regulations also improve the look of the neighborhood and the value of your property by preventing accumulations of abandoned or inoperable vehicles.
It is unlawful to park any trailer, boat, vehicle, mobile home, or motor home on any public street in a residential area for more than 72 consecutive hours. Please contact the Police Department's Vehicle Abatement Officer at (831) 758-7316 for enforcement.
Motor vehicles must be parked on a paved driveway, have current registration, and be maintained in operation condition on residential properties. Please contact Code Enforcement at (831) 758-7157 for enforcement.
Parking any vehicle so as to obstruct the sidewalk is unlawful. Please call the Police Department’s Vehicle Abatement Officer at (831) 758-7316.
Vehicle Repairs
The registered owner of a vehicle may perform routine minor maintenance to his/her vehicle(s), or to a vehicle(s) belonging to immediate household members in public view at his/her residence. No routine maintenance shall be performed in the public right-of-way (sidewalks/streets). Routine maintenance includes: changing the oil or tires, replacement of water pump, alternator, brakes, shocks, oil, air filters, spark plugs, and similar work. Major repairs include: pulling engine blocks, repair or replacement of transmissions or front and rear axles, major body repair, dismantling, and similar work are not permitted in any residential district.
For complaints about vehicle repair, please contact Code Enforcement at (831) 758-7157. Disposal of mechanical fluids such as motor oil or transmission fluid, as well as any other hazardous material into City gutters, sewers, and drains is prohibited. To report violations please call Monterey County Environmental Health at (831) 755-4541.
Vehicle Storage
Any vehicle not in current running or operating condition, not currently registered to operate on a public streets, or any dismantled vehicle(s) or part(s) thereof is/are not permitted or allowed to be parked or stored in a residential district. On private property, an inoperable, or junk vehicle, may only be parked within a garage or carport. Otherwise, the vehicle is in violation of the Salinas City Municipal Code. Inoperable vehicles left on the public street are subject to tow. To report violations on private property, please contact Code Enforcement at (831) 758-7157. To report violations on a public streets or public property, please contact the Police Department's Vehicle Abatement Officer at (831) 758-7316.
Trailers, boats, campers, trailer coaches, etc. may not be stored in front yards or on driveways. However, driveway parking is allowed for a 48-hour period, for loading and unloading purposed only. Recreational vehicles may be parked in the rear or side yards provided it is behind a six (6) foot high solid wall or fence. For more information, or to report violations, please contact Code Enforcement at (831) 758-7157.
