City Codes to Promote Quality of Life
Garbage, trash, appliances, car parts, etc.
Accumulating garbage (wet or dry), trash, appliances, car parts, old furniture, recyclable and scrap materials is a public nuisance. In no circumstances may these items be stored outside of a fully enclosed building. Property must be kept tidy not only to maintain an attractive environment, but also to reduce fire, rodent and wildlife problems.
Illegal dumping
Anyone seen dumping trash in public or private places, or putting anything into storm drains, will be prosecuted if the following information is available: Eyewitness testimony, plus either the name and address of the dumper (if known), or a vehicle license plate number and a physical description of the dumper. Dumping is a particular problem in easements that run along the rear property lines in many neighborhoods.
Weeds
Landscaping overgrowth is unsightly. It also creates fire hazards and harbors disease carrying rodents. If you have a lawn, keep it less than 4" high. Other ground covers should be kept free of weeds. Though the City discourages ivy because it provides cover for rodents, well watered and maintained ivy or other ground covers can be an attractive alternative to a traditional lawn, with less maintenance and water usage.
Trash cans
Trash cans should be stored out of sight. The only day that trash and recycling containers can be outside is on pickup day. In high wind areas, contact the garbage company about ways to weight down containers. Contact San Bruno Garbage Company at (650) 583-8536 for information on garbage services. Graffiti Nothing blights a neighborhood as badly as graffiti. It cannot be tolerated. The only way to discourage future graffiti is to paint it out immediately. If you are unable to do so, the City can paint it for you. You are encouraged to talk to merchants about graffiti on their property.
Cars, trucks and other vehicles
City streets -- Only currently registered, fully operable vehicles (including trailers, trailers with boats, etc.) can be parked on the street. Vehicles must be moved at least one-tenth of a mile every 72 hours. Parking in our City is limited, and far too valuable for storing vehicles that are not in regular use.
Commercial Vehicles - Because they shorten the life of most street paving, and detract from the residential quality of our neighborhoods, commercial vehicles over 6,000 pounds may not be parked in residential zones except for deliveries.
Inoperable vehicles on private property - Storing inoperable vehicles is a sign of blight, gives the message that people in that area have no pride in their neighborhood, do not care about each other, and therefore makes their neighborhood more vulnerable to other crimes. It seriously reduces property values. Only vehicles that can be legally operated on a California highway (all parts and equipment required by the Vehicle Code, including a current street legal registration) can be parked in a driveway or in a paved area adjacent to the driveway that is closest to the property line. If they do not interfere with emergency worker access, recreational vehicles may also be parked in paved side yards. Inoperable cars and trucks may only be stored inside a fully enclosed garage.
Vehicle repair in residential neighborhoods - Only routine maintenance is allowed outside of a garage, and only between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. All other repairs must be confined to a fully enclosed garage. For-profit repair and on-street non-emergency repair are prohibited and will be prosecuted.
Streets and sidewalks
Sidewalk maintenance is the property owner's responsibility. Do not let trees overhang sidewalks less than 8 feet from the ground. Keep yard and parking strip plantings out of the sidewalk.
Fences
No fence may exceed 3' in height for the first 15' back from the City's right-of-way, and side and rear fences may not exceed 6' in height. If you do choose to have a fence, it must be properly maintained. In most circumstances, the law assumes fences are along property lines, so you and your neighbor share responsibility for maintenance.
Trees
You are allowed to plant any type of tree on your property but will have to adhere to City codes before cutting down or pruning any tree on your property. If a tree on your neighbor's property causes you problems, you will have to get permission from your neighbor before you cut all or part of the tree that intrudes onto your property - provided that you do not permanently damage the tree. Trees that overhang sidewalks must be trimmed at least 8' above the sidewalk. City trees are those planted in the City's right-of-way. Heritage Trees are those trees planted anywhere on your property that are of a certain size and type. Contact the Parks Division of the Parks and Recreation Services Department for more information on trimming trees.
Home Maintenance
Your home is probably the biggest investment you will ever make. To preserve its value, and the values of surrounding properties, exterior maintenance is vital.
Paint
The City places no restrictions on paint colors, but you must keep your house painted. This cuts down on potential termite and dry rot infestations throughout the entire neighborhood. If you would like free paint, call the Health Dept. at 363-4305.
Landscaping
Your home need not look like it came from the pages of Sunset, but exterior landscaping must be kept tidy. This is to reduce fire hazards and potential rodent infestations, as well as assure an attractive appearance. Never store any furniture, appliances or trash in your yard.
Fences
If you have a fence, it needs to be properly maintained. Wood fences should be regularly painted to reduce termite and dry rot infestations.
Windows
Repair broken and cracked windows immediately. They are dangerous to everyone, especially children. Dispose of broken glass properly.
