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Animals

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1. Does the City regulate the types and number of animals a resident can keep?

Yes, the "Animals Ordinance" is part of the El Cerrito Municipal Code related to keeping animals including domestic pets, chickens, other fowl, bees, goats, pigs and other animals in El Cerrito.
El Cerrito Municipal Code

2. What animals can I keep in El Cerrito?

As of April 2012, the City allows residents to keep the following animals:
• Dogs—County license required
• Cats—County license optional
• Domestic Rodents (e.g. rats, hamsters, and guinea pigs)
• Rabbits
• Fish
• Domestic reptiles and amphibians (e.g. lizards, snakes, frogs and turtles)
• Domestic Insects (other than honeybees) and other commonly kept arthropods (e.g. ants, spiders, millipedes, and hermit crabs)
• Birds, if kept indoors and not permitted to fly freely. (Birds flying freely or birds kept outdoors require a conditional use permit.)
• Chickens (hens only), honeybees, pigs and goats (as pets, or for personal sustainability at a hobby level only) with a City permit.

Wild or exotic animals are regulated by County and State law and shall not be permitted without a conditional use permit.

All animal-related home businesses (e.g. kennels, animals breeding, animal daycare, or selling animal products) require a conditional use permit.

3. Who do I contact if I have questions about keeping animals in El Cerrito?

For more information about keeping animals in El Cerrito, to obtain clearances or permits, or to find out about placement of coops, pens, and kennels, contact the City Planning Division at 215-4330.

Residents who have or plan to keep one or more chickens or other fowl, beehives, pigs, goats, other livestock, or exotic/wild animals should contact the City about obtaining the proper permits for existing animals.

4. Does the City provide animal control services?

El Cerrito contracts with the County for animal control services. To find out about required dog licensing or optional cat licensing, or to report suspected animal abuse or neglect, contact the County Animal Services Department at (925) 335-8300. More about Animal Control

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Building Division

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1. Can I defer submittal of fire suppression and fire alarm systems?

No.  Fire sprinkler and alarm permits need to be applied for and submitted at the same time as the building permit application is submitted.

2. Who is responsible for obtaining the building permit?

Building permits can be obtained by the homeowner or a licensed contractor. The person or persons performing the work must obtain the permit. It is a violation of state law if a contractor commences work without first obtaining a permit under their state contractor's license. The owner/contractor or an authorized agent is the only legal person who can sign the building permit application. In addition to the above, the City of El Cerrito must verify that the responsible party being issued the permit conforms to the Worker's Compensation Laws of California. Questions regarding this provision can be answered by calling the Building Division at (510) 215-4360.

3. How can a reputable contractor be located?

There are many local reputable contractors. Building contractors applying for permits within the City must be licensed by the Contractor's State License Board. Under this licensing the contractor is bonded and must carry workman's compensation insurance for their employees. When a contractor is selected, ask for references and investigate them. Check with the Contractor's State License Board and the Better Business Bureau for any complaints against the company. The Contractor's State License Board can be reached at (800) 321-2752.

4. What is the Residential Rental Inspection Program?

The Rental housing Inspection Program is intended to assure that rental housing units in the City are maintained in a safe and habitable condition and comply with all codes and standards applicable to rental housing. For more details, visit the Residential Rental Inspection page, or contact the Neighborhood Preservation Officer via email or call 510-215-4363.

5. Who do I call to complain about an animal nuisance?

The City contracts with Contra Costa County Animal Services Department for animal control services. Call the County Animal Services Department at 925-335-8300 to report stray, loose, or injured animals, make a nuisance complaint or report animal cruelty.

Contra Costa County Animal Services Department

6. Who do I call if I think construction work is being performed without required permits?

Report concerns regarding possible construction work being completed without the required permits, off-hours construction work, or creating an unsafe condition (i.e. attractive nuisances, improperly stored equipment, accumulation of junk and debris) to the Code Enforcement Officer via the online form, email, or call 510-215-4363.

7. How do I report graffiti? Who is responsible to remove graffiti?

Graffiti on public and private property should be removed in a timely manner. Reporting the physical location and description of graffiti to Code Enforcement via the online form, email, or call 510-215-4363, who facilitates removal and gathers information that can help identify trends. If the graffiti is on private property, the Code Enforcement Officer will contact the affected property owner regarding removal. If the graffiti is on your property, you are responsible to remove the graffiti in a timely manner. Property owners who have been tagged are encouraged to report the graffiti to the Police Department’s non-emergency dispatch line, 510-233-1214. If you can take pictures of graffiti before it is removed, this will assist the Police Department. Please be sure to note the location of the tagging and the date the pictures were taken. Graffiti is a crime. If you witness a crime in progress (including tagging), or want to report suspicious activity, call the Police Department right away.

8. How do I report an illicit discharge?

Report potential pollution (i.e. trash, oil, soaps, chemicals, etc) on sidewalks, streets, gutters, and creeks to the Public Works Department at 510 215-4350. Public Works Department Page

9. What does the Code Enforcement Officer mean by "poor property maintenance"?

Property Maintenance –The poor maintenance of a house or building can lead to unsafe conditions for inhabitants as well as the neighborhood. Poorly maintained properties can also affect property values in the area. Some examples of complaints include: Buildings not in a sanitary and safe condition (i.e. substandard housing conditions); Un-maintained building including unpainted buildings or buildings with deteriorating paint Broken window or fence; Accumulation of junk and debris attractive nuisances, hazardous pools; Detrimental maintenance of property overgrown vegetation/landscaping; Abandoned vehicle on private property, including vehicles parked on front lawn walkways, stairs, driveways in disrepair or graffiti.

10. Who do I report Pool Maintenance concerns to?

To report a “green pool”, contact the Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District at 925-685-9301 Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District

11. What are "illegally placed signs"?

Flyers, posters and other signs are prohibited on utility poles, street sign poles (including stop signs), and on public property (including street medians.) There are also specific regulations regarding signs in commercial & residential areas. Contact the Planning Division at 510-215-4330 for more details.

12. What is an "Unpermitted living Space"?

Unpermitted living Spaces such as garage conversions and unpermitted accessory units often do not meet minimum standards for health and safety. For example, the conversion of a garage to a bedroom without the benefit of building permits often results in unsafe living conditions. Frequently, illegal garage conversions do not meet building or fire codes (such as lack of egress windows, lack of proper electrical service plugs, lack of minimum natural light requirement and other health and safety concerns). They can also adversely affect on-street parking for the neighborhood. The addition of an accessory living unit (such as an in-law unit, etc) without the benefit of building permits often result in unsafe living conditions. Frequently, illegal accessory units do not meet building or fire codes (such as improper plumbing for kitchens and baths, lack of minimum ceiling height, and other health and safety concerns.) Report concerns regarding unpermitted construction to the Code Enforcement Officer via the online form, email, or call 510-215-4363.

13. Who do I call to complain about vehicles parked on the street for too long?

Vehicles parked on street for over 72 hours, double parked cars, parked cars blocking the sideway, inoperable vehicles left on the street should be reported to the Police Department at 510-215-4400. Police Department

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City Clerk

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1. How can I get a copy of the City Council agenda?

City Council agendas are posted at City Hall (10890 San Pablo Avenue), El Cerrito Community Center (7007 Moeser Lane), and at the El Cerrito Library (6510 Stockton Avenue). They are also available online. You can subscribe to the eAgenda by subscribing to the City Council Meetings & Agendas Calendar at our Subscribe page.

2. Where and when are City Council meetings held?

The City Council meets at 7:00 pm the first and third Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in the City Council Chambers at City Hall (10890 San Pablo Avenue).

3. How do I apply for a board, commission, or committee vacancy?

To apply for a board, commission, or committee, submit an application online.

4. When are City Council meetings televised?

You can watch City Council meetings live on Cable 28 or watch the rebroadcast Thursday of the same week at 12:00 noon, and again the following Monday at noon. Streaming video of meetings is also available 24/7 on the City's Website.

5. How do I request copies of public records?

Pursuant to the California Public Records Act, the public may have access to a variety of documents held by the City. Written requests can be submitted to the City Clerk in person, by mail or by emailing the city clerk. Copy fees are $0.10 per standard size page. Oversize and bond documents are available at an additional cost.

6. How do I register to vote, vote by mail ballot or change my voter registration?

Voter registration forms are available from the Contra Costa County Election Department, City Clerk Offices, Post Offices, and the Department of Motor Vehicles. Questions regarding voter registration or voting by mail ballots should be directed to the Contra Costa County Election Department in Martinez at (925) 335-7800.

7. How do I obtain a marriage license or copy of a birth certificate?

Marriage licenses and birth certificates are obtained through the Contra Costa County Clerk's Office. Contact the County Recorder's Office at 925-335-7900 to apply or visit the County's website for more information. They are located at 555 Escobar Street in Martinez.

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City Manager

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1. What is a charter city?

A Charter City adopts a Charter, which is a document that outlines how a city is governed. Becoming a charter city allows voters to determine how their city government is organized and, with respect to municipal affairs, enact legislation different than that adopted by the state.

2. Why is El Cerrito considering becoming a charter city?

The City of El Cerrito was incorporated as a general law city in 1917 by residents seeking the right to manage local affairs. Since then, the authority of general law cities over local affairs has diminished. Furthermore, the State has continually added mandates for cities that require local resources to address State concerns, increased its control over local matters, and redirected much needed local revenue for its own purposes. Changes in State law have limited the ability of El Cerrito to decide how to use local dollars for local needs.

The power of home rule, granted by the California Constitution, makes available to charter cities a variety of tools to use to construct local policy and address local concerns. The voters of each charter city get to decide which tools to put in their tool box. With this Charter, El Cerrito will reclaim more local autonomy and expand the economic and fiscal independence of our City government to promote the health, safety, and welfare of all its residents. Therefore, we do hereby exercise the express right granted by the Constitution of the State of California to enact and adopt this Charter for the City of El Cerrito.

3. How will El Cerrito become a charter city?

To become a charter city, a city must adopt a charter. There are two ways to adopt a charter: 

1. The city’s voters elect a charter commission.²¹ The commission has the responsibility of drafting and debating the charter. 
2. The governing board of the city, on its own motion, drafts the charter.²²

In either case, the charter is not adopted by the city until it is ratified by a majority vote of the city's voters.²³

---

League of California Cities. http://www.cacities.org/Resources-Documents/Resources-Section/Charter-Cities/Charter-Cities-A-Quick-Summary-for-the-Press-and-R.

²¹Cal. Gov’t Code § 34451. 

²²Cal. Gov’t Code § 34458. 

²³Cal. Gov’t Code §§ 34457, 34462. 

4. When will residents vote on this measure?

On May 1, 2018, the Charter Committee recommended the draft Charter to the City Council. The City Council will hold public hearings on the Charter at the June 18 and June 19 Council meetings, and would then consider putting the Charter on the ballot in July for the voters to consider in November 2018.p>

5. What is a Real Property Transfer Tax or RPPT?

A RPTT is a tax that is only paid upon the sale of property, and is traditionally split between the buyer and seller. Charter cities may adopt—with voter approval—a Real Property Transfer Tax at any rate.

The revenue could be used for: maintaining rapid 9-1-1 emergency response times; City parks, paths, and playfields; library programs for children, adults, and families; senior services; affordable housing; and long-term financial stability for the City and services. 

6. Are there other charter cities in the Bay Area?

In our area, local charter cities include most of our neighbors; Albany, Emeryville, Berkeley, Richmond, Oakland, Alameda, Piedmont, San Francisco, San Leandro, and San Rafael.

7. As a homeowner, will I have to pay the Measure V tax every year?

No. Measure V asks voters to approve a Real Property Transfer Tax (RPTT). The RPTT is a one-time tax paid when property is sold or otherwise transferred in return for a payment to the owner. It’s not an ongoing, annual tax. If you own a home and don’t sell it, you won’t pay the tax. If you sell your home, Measure V allows you and the buyer to decide who should pay the tax. Measure V also rebates a portion of the tax to the seller or the buyer for making seismic upgrades or improvements that save water and electricity.

8. Will I have to pay the Real Property Transfer Tax if I gift my home to a family member, place it in a Family Trust, or leave it to my children as inheritance?

No. Measure V plainly states that the tax is calculated based on the amount paid as part of a sale or other transfer. If your home is transferred without any payment by the person or trust receiving it, there is no tax to pay.  Measure V expressly exempts several transfers from the tax.

9. What can the revenue be used for? Why is it not guaranteed for specific services or improvements?

Like most of the City’s revenues, funds from Measure V are general in nature and can be used for all the services the City provides. Each year, during the public budget process, the City Council adopts a budget based on the priorities of the community, which regularly change. As part of the City’s general funds, Measure V revenues can be allocated based on changing needs and priorities for police, fire, recreation, economic development, infrastructure and many other services desired by our residents.

10. Will we get any additional or increased services if Measure V passes?

Yes. The City’s budget is balanced. Additional funds will now be available for increased disaster preparedness, police and fire prevention, parks, facilities and open space and recreation programs in amounts determined annually and publicly by the City Council to reflect community priorities and needs.

11. Will the Real Property Transfer Tax directly impact property values?

For better or worse, home values have gone up dramatically in El Cerrito and in neighboring cities such as Berkeley and Albany—both of which are also charter cities that have a real property transfer tax. The real estate agent who served on the Charter Committee said during public meetings that the tax had not hurt the market in either of those cities. There’s no evidence that a RPTT has hurt the real estate market in the area. For a median priced home in El Cerrito in 2018, the tax would only equal about 1% of the sale price. Long time El Cerrito homeowners currently and historically have enjoyed the steadily increasing equity of what they initially paid for the homes.

12. Will the Real Property Transfer Tax negatively impact the proceeds from a sale of a home in El Cerrito?

Measure V allows buyers and sellers of property to decide who will pay the tax.  Traditionally, it is split between the buyer and the seller.  As an incentive to make seismic upgrades and energy and water-saving improvements to property, it includes several potential rebates of the tax for either the seller or purchaser. Sellers or purchasers who pay the tax will be able to recover a portion of it for making specified improvements to property that reduce the risk of damage and injury in earthquakes, save water, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

13. Will being a Charter City increase the chances the City will go bankrupt?

There is no documented causal connection between charter city status and bankruptcy. There are very few instances of California cities filing for bankruptcy. Both charter cities and general law cities have used bankruptcy proceedings. The proposed El Cerrito Charter authorizes the City to use additional tools to raise revenue for important services but makes no changes to existing local law that would alter how the City spends its funds. The City is audited annually by an independent auditor and has a Financial Advisory Board of residents that looks at the City’s budget, audits, and financial policies.  Additional revenues can help to build a reserve fund and long-term financial stability we need.

14. Will Measure V cause rents to increase?

The Real Property Transfer Tax is a one-time tax paid when property is sold. It does not create a new annual expense for landlords. There is no documented connection between the Real Property Transfer Tax and the level of rents.

15. Will sales of commercial property also be subject to the tax?

Yes. If the Real Property Transfer Tax had been in place in 2017, sales of commercial properties on San Pablo Avenue would have resulted in an additional $500,000 in revenue for the City. Those funds could have been used for disaster preparedness, police staffing, parks, senior services, and other important local services.

16. Why did the City place Measure V on the ballot? Is it really about the Real Property Transfer Tax?

The City has been open—from the very first City Council meeting about the issue in November 2017—that the Real Property Transfer Tax would meaningfully increase revenue to support the community’s priorities for local services like disaster preparedness, police, fire, parks and open space, and senior services. Under current California law, only charter cities can collect a Real Property Transfer Tax.

In 2014, voters in the City of Emeryville similarly approved a limited charter that expanded their ability to raise revenue, including a RPTT. The proposed El Cerrito Charter leaves in place local law, other than to give the City more options for raising revenue and authorizing a RPTT. The City has explained this at every public meeting at which the proposed El Cerrito Charter and Measure V have been discussed. El Cerrito voters will decide whether they want additional revenue to meet their priorities for local services.

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Conflict of Interest Code

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1. What is a Conflict of Interest Code?

A Conflict of Interest Code is a set of rules and regulations adopted pursuant to the Political Reform Act. The Act requires all California cities to adopt and implement a Conflict of Interest Code.

Each Conflict of Interest Code designates positions required to file a Statement of Economic Interests - Form 700, and assigns disclosure categories specifying the types of interests to be reported. The Form 700 is a public document. In the City of El Cerrito, disclosure requirements for positions and commissions designated in the City’s Conflict of Interest Code are identified in Appendix A. Disclosure requirements are stated in Appendix B. City Councilmembers, the City Manager, City Attorney, City Treasurer and Planning Commissioners are required by state law to file at the highest level. The types of interests that must be disclosed depend upon the responsibilities of the designated position. The disclosure requirements may include the reporting of investments, business positions, interests in real property, income and other financial interests. The Political Reform Act contains specific provisions setting forth the circumstances under which employees and commissioners must disqualify themselves from making, participating in or influencing a governmental decision. The City Clerk administers the  Conflict of Interest Code at the local level and notifies elected officials and each designated employee and commissioner of his or her filing obligation. State law requires cities to conduct a biennial review of the Conflict of Interest Code to ensure that designated positions and disclosure requirements are kept current. Codes and code revisions are adopted by City Council resolution.

2. What are the three elements of a Conflict of Interest Code?

A. Terms of the Code (the "Body")

The essential terms of a Conflict of Interest Code are found in the Code's main body, which includes such provisions as the manner of reporting financial interests, disqualification procedures, and other information. The Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) recommends that agencies incorporate FPPC Regulation 18730 by reference because the information required to be in a code's main body is complex and may change over time. Regulation 18730 contains all the necessary provisions. The FPPC periodically amends this regulation to include legislative and regulatory changes. By incorporating FPPC Regulation 18730 by reference, the body of the code automatically stays in compliance with Political Reform Act Regulations.

B. Designated Positions
A Conflict of Interest Code must specifically list positions that make or participate in making decisions. Typically, positions that involve voting on matters, negotiating contracts, or making recommendations on purchases without substantive review must be included in the Code. Persons holding positions listed in Government Code Section 87200 are considered "statutory filers." Such persons, include the Mayor, City Councilmembers, the City Manager, the City Attorney, the City Treasurer, Planning Commissioners and persons who manage public investments.

C. Disclosure Categories
The primary purpose of the Conflict of Interest Code is the requirement to disclose types of financial interests, business positions and property that may be affected by the decision-making of persons holding designated positions. Each position designated in the Conflict of Interest Code is assigned a unique disclosure requirement.

3. What is a Statement of Economic Interests - Form 700?

The Statement of Economic Interests (Fair Political Practices Commission Form 700) is a public document which certain public officials, government employees, commissioners and consultants designated in the City’s Conflict Code, use to disclose personal financial interests.

4. How do I know if I must file a Statement of Economic Interests?

The City Clerk will inform you by letter that you must file a Statement of Economic Interests. If you are unsure of your status, you can always check the Conflict of Interest Code posted on this website.

5. Why do I have to file a Statement of Economic Interests?

The California Political Reform Act (Gov. Code Sections 81000-91014), in conjunction with the City of El Cerrito’s Conflict of Interest Code requires the filing of Statements of Economic Interests. The Act states:

"Assets and income of public officials which may be materially affected by their official actions should be disclosed (and in appropriate circumstances the officials should be disqualified from acting in order that conflicts of interest may be avoided)" (Section 81002(c))

For more information on this subject please review resources provided on the City’s website and the FPPC’s website.

6. When do I have to file?

The Statement of Economic Interests - Form 700 must be filed under the following circumstances:

• An Assuming Office statement is required within 30 days of the date when you take a position already designated in a conflict of interest code.

  An individual hired for a position not yet covered under an agency’s conflict-of-interest code must file the Form 700 if the individual serves in a position that makes or participates in making governmental decisions. These individuals must file under the agency’s broadest disclosure category until the code is amended to include the new position unless the agency has provided in writing a limited disclosure requirement.

• Annual statements are required by April 1 of each year, covering the preceding calendar year. If you assumed office on or after October 1st of that year, no annual statement is due until the following April.
• A Leaving Office statement is required within 30 days of the date you leave a designated position.

7. Where do I have to file?

The completed Statement of Economic Interests - Form 700 must be received by the City Clerk at City Hall, 10890 San Pablo Avenue, El Cerrito, CA 94530 on or before the filing deadline. Faxes are not accepted and the Form 700 must include an original signature.

8. How do I complete my Statement of Economic Interests?

This depends upon what interests you are required to disclose, and what interests you hold. The City Clerk will supply you with the Form 700, the Reference Pamphlet, and the appropriate department or commission disclosure appendix.

• Complete the top section of the Cover Page of the Form 700 with your full name, mailing address (may be a business address), and daytime phone number.


• Section #1, Office, Agency or Court: Put the name of the department you work for or your board or commission on the first line. On the second line, if you are in a department that is broken into divisions, please list your division and put the name of your position as it appears in the Conflict of Interest Code. There are a few people who hold more than one designated position. They may file a single “expanded statement,” which discloses all the interests required of them by jurisdiction and each disclosure category. Since a statement needs to be filed with both jurisdictions, the statement can be completed by listing both jurisdictions and position titles, reporting disclosure requirements for all positions. Each statement must be filed with an original signature. Therefore, before signing the statement, make a copy for each agency. Sign each copy with an original signature and file with each agency.


• Section #2: Your jurisdiction is the City of El Cerrito


• Section #3: You will be advised by letter of the type of statement, whether Assuming, Annual, or Leaving. If Assuming or Leaving, check the appropriate box and fill in the date, if not pre-marked by the City Clerk’s Office. If an Annual Statement, the box will be pre-checked.


• Period Covered: For the Annual Statement, remember that you are disclosing information from the previous calendar year. For an Assuming statement, you are disclosing information from the year prior to your appointment date.


• Carefully review your disclosure category to determine if you have reportable interests.


• Read the instructions for each schedule of the Form 700, and be sure to use the appropriate schedule for each type of interest you must report. Put your name on each schedule you complete.
• When you have completed the appropriate schedule(s), go back to the Cover Page of the Form 700. Go to:


• Section #4, Schedule Summary: If you have disclosed reportable interests on any of the schedules, attach them to the Cover Page. Please check the appropriate box or boxes in Section #4. You are confirming that one or more schedules are attached to the cover page and contain information that you are required by law to disclose. Please recycle any schedules you don’t use.


• You may have no interests of the type you’re required to disclose, according to your conflict of interest code. If you do not complete any schedules, check the “No Reportable Interests” box and file only the completed and signed cover page with the City Clerk.


• Indicate the total number of pages completed including the Cover Page.


• Section #5, Verification: You must date and sign the cover page. The Form 700 cannot be accepted without your original signature.

9. Who will see my form?

Once filed, the Statement of Economic Interests - Form 700 is a public document and must be made available to the public upon request. Filers must sign the Form 700 under penalty of perjury.

By law, original Form 700s filed by the Mayor and City Council, City Manager, City Attorney, City Treasurer and Planning Commissioners are sent to the FPPC and copies are kept on file by the City Clerk. All other original forms are retained by the City Clerk.

10. What else should I know?

FILE ON TIME! Late filers may face fines or other penalties. Commissioners who do not file within 30 days of specific written notice provided by the City Clerk will be terminated.

11. Where do I go for help?

El Cerrito City Clerk 

• Questions relating to the City of El Cerrito’s Conflict of Interest Code and local filing obligations should be directed to the City Clerk. However, the City Clerk does not provide legal advice, so each person who has a filing obligation under the Conflict of Interest Code must make his/her own determination regarding individual disclosure and reporting of interests.
• The City Clerk is located at 10890 San Pablo Avenue, El Cerrito, CA 94530, (510) 215-4305.

Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) - http://www.fppc.ca.gov/ Information available from the FPPC website:

• An interactive version of the Statement of Economic Interests - Form 700
• Form 700 Reference Pamphlet
• Text-Only Form 700 for Screen Readers
• Information relating to the Political Reform Act
• Contact the Fair Political Practices Commission's toll free help line at (866) 275-3772

Other Resources California Attorney General's Pamphlet on Conflict of Interest Law.

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EBMUD Water Utility User Tax (UUT)

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1. Can I pay my bill for the Water Utility User Tax in cash or give it directly to the City?

Yes. You may pay this bill in cash or drop off a check at City Hall, 10890 San Pablo Avenue during regular working hours. Please include the bottom portion of the bill showing your account number with your payment.

2. If I have moved during the billing period will I receive another Water UUT bill and am I being billed for time I was not living there?

These bills are being calculated and sent by EBMUD on our behalf using EBMUD's water billing database. If you moved during the billing period you will be charged only for the time you lived at that address and no further bills will be sent to you.

3. The account holder is deceased. Does the estate still need to pay the Water UUT bill?

Yes. The tax is due for the time the water account was open.

4. Do businesses need to pay the Water UUT bill?

The EBMUD Water UUT applies to all water accounts in El Cerrito, business and residential.

5. Can I pay everything in one lump sum and not receive future billings?

Since the Water UUT is calculated on water usage, the amount due is not known at this time. Subsequent bills will be issued by EBMUD on our behalf utilizing the EBMUD's database.

6. Why is there a difference in the amount I owe from the UUT current charges?

Previous unpaid balances are reflected in this amount.

7. Whom should I contact if I have a question about my Water Utility User Tax Supplemental Bill?

For questions regarding the tax in general, please contact Lisa Malek-Zadeh, City of El Cerrito Finance Director at 510-215-4312. For questions regarding your account, please contact EBMUD customer service at custsvc@ebmud.com or call 510-287-2174.

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Economic Development

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1. Who can I talk to about how to start up a business in El Cerrito?

There are two organizations that provide a variety of small business resources, the Contra Costa Small Business Development Center and the West Contra Costa Business Development Center.

Please contact Jennifer Peat in the Community Development Department if you are interested in locating or growing your business in El Cerrito at 510-215-4362 or email.

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Employment with the City

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1. How do I apply for employment with the City of El Cerrito?

To see current employment opportunities and apply online, visit our Careers Page

2. What job opportunities are available with the City of El Cerrito?

For a list of current job opportunities, call the job hotline at (510) 466-5005 or visit our Careers Page

3. Where can I find information on becoming a Police Officer for the City of El Cerrito?

Click on "Police Recruitment Information" from the Human Resources Division page. Police Recruitment Information

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eTRAKiT

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1. I am a brand new contractor doing business in El Cerrito. What do I do?

1. Click on "Setup an Account" link.

2. Click on CONTRACTOR REGISTRATION button.

3.  Fill in all your information.  Click on CREATE ACCOUNT button.

4. Fill out your application online at :  El Cerrito Business License Application  and email it to businesslicense@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us

5. After completing your El Cerrito business license application, please contact building@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us with your AEC number, your El Cerrito business license number, and your company's email address to enable your eTRAKiT account.

2. I am an existing contractor. How do I access my contractor account?

1. Make sure it is set to CSLB Number.  Click on the drop down to locate your company's name.

2. Select your company then click on Forgot Password link on the top righthand corner. 

click on CONTRACTOR button.

3. Type in your email address and click on the RESET PASSWORD button.

4. Look for the password reset email from eTRAKiT.no_reply@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us in your inbox or the spam folder. (If you do not receive a password reset email from the city, please contact building@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us with your AEC number.)

Click on the Reset Password link.  

3. How do I login with my contractor account?

1. Make sure it is CSLB Number.  Click on the drop down and select your company's name.

 2. Type in your Password and click on the LOGIN button. 

4. How do I apply and pay for a Building permit?

Click on Apply/New Permit link. 

Select I Agree radio button to agree to the terms and conditions.  Click on CONTINUE button.

In Step 1, click on the PERMIT Type drop down and select the type of permit you are applying for then select the  Permit Subtype if applicable.

Fill in Short Description, Job Value, and additional requested information about the job.

 In the Location section, type in the complete or partial address in the Search Value text box.  Click on the SEARCH button.

 Select the correct address by clicking on it. 

The Location section will change to displaying the correct PARCEL NUMBER and address similar to below:

Make sure the Contractor box is checked.

In the Attachments section, upload your file(s) if applicable.

Click on the Select button.

Browse to the location where you have the file you need to upload.  Highlight it and click on the Open button.

Type in a short description in the Description text box.  Click on the UPLOAD button.

Click on the ACCEPT button to acknowledge the disclaimer.

Observe your file is now listed as attached to this permit. 

Repeat steps in Attachments section above for additional files that you wish to add to this permit.

Click on NEXT STEP button to proceed to the next step.

 In Step 2 of the process, verify all the contact information.  Click on NEXT STEP button.  

In Step 3 of the process, review all the information.  Click on NEXT STEP button.  

Your application will be reviewed by the city.   Click on VIEW PERMIT button and note your new Permit Number for future reference. 

 

Wait for an email from one of the city’s Permit Technicians.  Click on the https://elcr-trk.aspgov.com/eTRAKiT link to revisit the eTRAKiT website. For login assistance, see FAQ page.

Locate the permit under My Active Permits.  Note the clickable amount under the FEES DUES column.  Click on the amount.

In the Shopping Cart page, double check to make sure the permit number is correct.  Click on PROCEED TO CHECKOUT button. 

In the Checkout Summary page, make sure you allow Pop-ups and Redirect for elcr-trk-tst.aspgov.com.  Click on PAY BY CREDIT CARD button.  

You will be redirected to a new Payment webpage.   Please fill in the needed contact fields under Payment Information.  Under Payment Method, mark the Credit Card radio button.  Fill in your credit card information.  Click on the Continue button.

Mark the checkbox for “I authorize payment and agree to the Payment Authorization Terms”.  Then click on the Pay $xxx.xx button.

If you got logged off, please select your company name, type in your password, and click the LOGIN button 

You should see your payment confirmation page now.  

5. How do I apply and pay for an Encroachment permit?

Click on Apply/New Permit link.

Mark I Agree radio button to agree to the terms and conditions.  Click on CONTINUE button.  

In this Step 1, click on the PERMIT Type drop down and select the type of permit you are applying for.

Fill in Short Description, Job Value, and additional requested information about the job.

In the Location section, type in the complete or partial address in the Search Value text box.  Click on the SEARCH button.

 Select the correct address by clicking on it. 

The Location section will change to displaying the correct PARCEL NUMBER and address similar to below:

Make sure the Contractor box is checked.

In the Attachments section, upload your file(s) if applicable.

Click on the Select button.

Browse to the location where you have the file you need to upload.  Highlight it and click on the Open button.

Type in a short description in the Description text box.  Click on the UPLOAD button.

Click on the ACCEPT button to acknowledge the disclaimer.

Observe your file is now listed as attached to this permit. 

Repeat steps in Attachments section above for additional files that you wish to add to this permit.

Click on NEXT STEP button to proceed to the next step.

 In Step 2 of the process, verify all the contact information.  Click on NEXT STEP button.  

In Step 3 of the process, review all the information.  Click on NEXT STEP button.  

Your application will be reviewed by the city.   Click on VIEW PERMIT button and note your new Permit Number for future reference. 

Wait for an email from one of the city’s Permit Technicians.  Click on the https://elcr-trk.aspgov.com/eTRAKiT link to revisit the eTRAKiT website. For login assistance, see FAQ page.

Locate the permit under My Active Permits.  Note the clickable amount under the FEES DUES column.  Click on the amount.

In the Shopping Cart page, double check to make sure the permit number is correct.  Click on PROCEED TO CHECKOUT button. 

In the Checkout Summary page, make sure you allow Pop-ups and Redirect for elcr-trk-tst.aspgov.com.  Click on PAY BY CREDIT CARD button.  

You will be redirected to a new Payment webpage.   Please fill in the needed contact fields under Payment Information.  Under Payment Method, mark the Credit Card radio button.  Fill in your credit card information.  Click on the Continue button.

Mark the checkbox for “I authorize payment and agree to the Payment Authorization Terms”.  Then click on the Pay $xxx.xx button.

If you got logged off, please select your company name, type in your password, and click the LOGIN button 

You should see your payment confirmation page now.  

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Finance

Show All Answers

1. Do I need a business license?

All businesses operating in El Cerrito are required to apply and obtain a Business License in accordance with El Cerrito Municipal Code, Chapter 4.32. For more information, or to obtain a business license with the City of El Cerrito, please visit the Business License webpage.

2. Why did I receive this Utility User Tax Bill?

Learn about utility user taxes.

3. Does El Cerrito have a property transfer tax?

Yes, El Cerrito does have a property transfer tax. Information on Ordinance No. 2018-03, can be found here. Please check out our Frequently Asked Questions page.

4. How do I get a parking permit?

The Residential Parking Permit Application may be submitted by electronically or mail. Please visit the Parking Permit webpage for more information.

5. What is the “State SB 1186 Fee”?

Beginning Jan. 1, 2018, California Senate Bill 1186 requires cities to collect an additional $4 fee for a local business license. The additional state fee of $4 is imposed on any applicant for a local business license or equivalent instrument or permit, or renewal thereof, for purposes of increasing disability access and compliance with construction-related accessibility requirements and developing educational resources for businesses to facilitate compliance with federal and state disability laws.

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Green

Show All Answers

1. How do I report illegal dumping or a spill?

Illegal dumping and/or spills on any El Cerrito street or other public area should be immediately reported to the Public Works Maintenance Division at 510-215-4369. Go to Public Works - Spills & Discharges

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Green Waste

Show All Answers

1. How do I request a free food scraps collection pail?

El Cerrito residents can request their free food scraps pail to be delivered to their home by calling 510-215-4350 or emailing green@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us or asking staff in the Recycling Center business office, located at 7501 Schmidt Lane, during normal office hours.

2. Won't putting food scraps in my green waste bin attract raccoons and other pests?

If you are concerned about pests, use a tied bungee to keep the organics waste bin's lid closed and difficult to open.

3. What if my neighbor's green waste bin smells or attracts pests?

City staff will take complaints about nuisances resulting from mismanagement of compostable materials seriously and will investigate reports about smells or pest issues and take appropriate code enforcement action.

4. What about ants and other bugs?

Exposed food scraps tend to attract fruit flies, ants, and other insects if left uncovered. There are several ways to manage this problem, including: 

• Keeping a piece of cardboard on the bottom of the empty container then piling food and yard waste on top to keep decomposed organics from accumulating on the bottom,
• Covering your food scraps with shredded white paper, grass clipping or other yard debris, 
• Putting your food scraps in paper bags or wrapping them in other compost-safe paper (i.e. brown paper, butcher paper, newspaper, or using a paper landscape bag as a liner inside your green bin to fill), or 
• Utilizing an ASTM D6400 BPI certified compostable bag for food scraps,  
• Additionally, regularly setting your green bin to the curb for weekly pick-up will also help to minimize its attraction to critters looking for free food.

5. Am I required to participate?

As of January 1, 2022, curbside organics recycling is a mandatory program.  The State of California is mandated to reduce organics to landfill by 75% by 2025 which will dramatically help to reduce the negative effects of climate change, reducing methane gas production in the landfill.  

For more information visit: El-Cerrito.Org/MandatoryOrganicsRecycling.

6. Should I compost everything I can?

You should compost correctly, making sure to compost everything that can be composted in the curbside program.  When you have questions, call us at 510.215.4350 or email us.

For more information, please visit:  Curbside Organics 

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Main

Show All Answers

1. How do I contact a city/county department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

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Minimum Wage

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1. What is the El Cerrito Minimum Wage Ordinance?

The El Cerrito Minimum Wage Ordinance was passed by the El Cerrito City Council on November 17, 2015. The Ordinance requires employers covered by the Ordinance to pay a minimum of $11.60 per hour beginning July 1, 2016 to each employee who performs at least two (2) hours or more per week of work in El Cerrito. The Ordinance designates subsequent increases to the minimum wage.

2. What is the effective date of the El Cerrito Minimum Wage Ordinance?

July 1, 2016 is the effective date of the El Cerrito Minimum Wage Ordinance. Employers covered by the Ordinance must pay their workers a minimum of $11.60 per hour beginning July 1, 2016 and must abide by subsequent increases.

3. What is the El Cerrito minimum wage?

Starting July 1, 2016, the minimum wage is $11.60 per hour.

Starting January 1, 2017, the minimum wage will be $12.25 per hour.

Starting January 1, 2018, the minimum wage will be $13.60 per hour.

Starting January 1, 2019, the minimum wage will be $15.00 per hour.

Every January 1 thereafter, the minimum wage will be adjusted based on the prior year’s Consumer Price Index.

4. What is the difference between the Federal, State and El Cerrito minimum wage laws?

El Cerrito employers are subject to Federal, State and El Cerrito minimum wage laws. When there are conflicting requirements in the laws, the employer must follow the strictest standard; that is, the one that is most favorable to the employee. Since El Cerrito’s current law requires a higher minimum wage rate than does the state and federal law, covered employers are required to pay the El Cerrito’s minimum wage as of July 1, 2016.

5. Where can I find more information about the El Cerrito Minimum Wage Ordinance?

If you have questions, you can call 510-215-4318 or send an email. Information regarding the El Cerrito Minimum Wage Ordinance is available on the City's website: www.el-cerrito.org/wages

6. What is the Consumer Price Index?

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is the index for urban wage earners and clerical workers for the San Francisco-Oakland-San Jose, CA metropolitan statistical area, on which annual increases to the minimum wage will be based as of January 1, 2020.

7. Who is an employee according to this ordinance?

An employee is any worker who:

1. performs at least two hours of work in a particular week in El Cerrito; and

2. qualifies as an employee entitled to payment of a minimum wage from any employer under the California minimum wage law.

8. Can tips or gratuities be counted toward the minimum wage?

No, employers may not count tips or gratuities as part of the minimum wage.

9. What are the geographic boundaries of El Cerrito?

You can see the city boundaries of El Cerrito here.

10. Can commissions be counted toward the minimum wage?

Yes, employers may count commission earnings toward the minimum wage. To learn more regarding State law about compensating employees, in whole or in part, on a commission basis, read: https://www.dir.ca.gov/dlse/Wages.pdf

11. Does the El Cerrito minimum wage apply to full-time and part-time employees?

Yes. Any person who performs at least two (2) hours of work in a particular week in El Cerrito is covered by the Ordinance.

12. To which employers does the El Cerrito Minimum Wage Ordinance apply?

The El Cerrito Minimum Wage Ordinance applies to any entity or person that conducts business in El Cerrito, or maintains a business facility in the City, and directly or indirectly (including through the services of a temporary services, staffing agency or similar entity) employs or exercises control over the wages, hours or working conditions of any employee. Anyone exempt from payment of the California minimum wage is exempt from the El Cerrito Minimum wage.

13. What are the Minimum Wage Ordinance administrative requirements for covered employers?

In addition to payment of the minimum wage, covered employers are required to:

(1) By November of each year, provide employees with a bulletin announcing the adjusted minimum wage for the upcoming year;

(2) Post a notice at the workplace of the current and prospective minimum wage rates and the employees’ rights under the Ordinance; If 10% or more of workforce at a worksite speaks a language other than English, the Wage Bulletin should also be in that language/languages.

(3) Provide each employee at time of hire with employer’s name, address and telephone number in writing.

(4) Maintain payroll records for a period of three (3) years, including employee’s name, hours worked, pay rate, and service charges collected and distributed; Upon request, provide employee with a written copy of their records within ten (10) days

(5) Permit access to work sites and records for authorized City representatives for the purpose of monitoring compliance with the Ordinance and investigating employee complaints.

The Minimum Wage Ordinance prohibits retaliation or discrimination against any person seeking to enforce the rights provided by the Ordinance.

14. Does the El Cerrito minimum wage cover employees who work in El Cerrito but are not El Cerrito residents?

Yes. Any person who performs at least two (2) hours of work in a particular week in El Cerrito is entitled to be paid the El Cerrito minimum wage.

15. May employers use commission earnings as a credit toward its obligations to pay the El Cerrito minimum wage?

Yes. Employers may count commission earnings toward the minimum wage.

16. May employers use tips as a credit toward its obligations to pay the El Cerrito minimum wage

No. An employer may not use an employee’s tips as a credit toward its obligation to pay the El Cerrito minimum wage.

17. Are employers required to pay the El Cerrito minimum wage to workers who are exempted from the California minimum wage requirements?

No. The El Cerrito Minimum Wage Ordinance requires that employers pay the El Cerrito minimum wage to employees who are entitled to receive the California minimum wage. Certain categories of workers including independent contractors, learners and certain disabled workers are not entitled to the California minimum wage. For further information on these categories of exempted workers, please consult the Industrial Welfare Commission

18. Which minimum wage rate should employers use when employee must be paid a wage using a formula based on the California minimum wage?

State law establishes certain circumstances in which an employee must be paid a wage using a formula based on the California minimum wage. El Cerrito’s Minimum Wage Ordinance requires employees subject to El Cerrito’s minimum wage to be paid a wage using the same formula, but based on El Cerrito’s minimum wage rate.

For example, the California Industrial Welfare Commission Order No. 4-2001 establishes wage requirements for workers who supply their own hand tools and equipment. These same requirements apply in El Cerrito, except that the El Cerrito minimum wage applies rather than the California minimum wage. For more details, read the Minimum Wage Regulations For Employees Using Their Own Tools & Equipment Handout

19. May an employee agree to work for less than the City’s minimum wage?

No. The minimum wage is an obligation of the employer and cannot be waived by agreement except collective bargaining agreements. To the extent required by federal law, all or any portion of the applicable requirements of the El Cerrito Minimum Wage Ordinance may be waived in a bona fide collective bargaining agreement provided that such waiver is explicitly set forth in such agreement in clear and unambiguous terms.

20. What can I do if my employer does not pay me at least the El Cerrito minimum wage?

Workers who believe they are not being paid correctly are encouraged to talk with their employer, or make a complaint to the City of El Cerrito by calling 510-215-4318 or by email, or submit a complaint to the California Labor Commissioner’s Office

21. What can I do if my employer retaliates against me because I question her/him about not being paid the local minimum wage?

Under the El Cerrito Minimum Wage Ordinance, it is unlawful for an employer to retaliate against employees who assert their right to receive the El Cerrito minimum wage. Workers should make a complaint to the City of El Cerrito by calling 510-215-4318 or by email, or submit a complaint to the California Labor Commissioner’s Office.

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Online Police Reporting

Show All Answers

1. What do I do if online incident reporting is not right for me?

If your incident is an emergency, call 911. If non-emergency call dispatch at 510-233-1214.

2. What if this happened in another city, can I file a report using this online police citizen reporting system?

No, if a crime took place outside of the City of El Cerrito please call the police department for that city.

3. What if this happened on the freeway?

If this took place on a I-80 please call the California Highway Patrol Office. For non-emergency purposes, like accident reports, tow questions, CHP office locations, vehicle theft tips, community outreach programs, call 1-800-TELL-CHP (1-800-835-5247). CHP has personnel that answers the 1-800-TELL-CHP telephone number 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For an emergency call 9-1-1.

4. What is a known suspect?

A known suspect is when you or someone else knows the person or where to find the person who committed the crime or the license plate number of the vehicle the suspect(s) were in.

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Police Department

Show All Answers

1. How can I report an abandoned vehicle?

Call the abandoned vehicle hotline at (510) 215-4427.

2. How do I contest a parking citation?

To contest a parking citation you received, complete the Parking Citation Review Form and mail it along with payment to the address on the form.

3. How can I obtain a copy of a collision report?

Call us at (510) 215-4400 and have your case number ready. Please allow 10 to 14 days from the date of the collision.

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Policing Practices FAQs

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1. What is the role of the District Attorney? Why doesn’t the Police Department choose not to prosecute arrested defendants?

The Contra Costa County District Attorney is responsible for all criminal prosecutions in Contra Costa County. When a police department makes an arrest based on probable cause, they complete the investigation and send it to the District Attorney for review. The District Attorney is not obligated to file charges against suspects in these cases. In fact, the District Attorney’s Office frequently decides not to file charges against suspects if, in their determination, it is in the interest of justice. The District Attorney does not report to any City Council in Contra Costa County. Instead, she is an elected official and is responsible to the people of Contra Costa County as a whole. You can find out more about the District Attorney’s Office here: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/7284/District-Attorney.

When the El Cerrito Police Department develops probable cause that leads officers to believe that a particular person committed a particular crime, officers write up the facts of the case and send it to the District Attorney for review. We send all cases in which probable cause has led to the arrest of a person to the District Attorney. The Police Department does not pick and choose which cases to send over when probable cause exists. If the ECPD decided to pick which cases should be reviewed by the District Attorney, then the police would be acting in the role of the judicial system and deciding who should or should not be held accountable for their crime. If we chose who should face the judicial system, we would rightfully be opening ourselves up to claims of bias. The police should not take actions that usurp the role of the judiciary.

2. What is “Broken Windows” policing theory? Is this the policing philosophy of the ECPD?

“Broken Windows” Policing is a philosophy often associated with the New York Police Department in the 1990’s. Proponents of the philosophy believe that visible signs of crime and lawlessness lead to an environment that further encourages crime and disorder. These proponents believe that focusing on enforcement of minor crimes such as public drinking, jaywalking, vandalism, and fare evasion, help to create an atmosphere of order and lawfulness, thereby reducing crime. For more information, you can read this article: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Broken_windows_theory.

The El Cerrito Police Department has not adopted a “Broken Windows” style policing philosophy. The ECPD believes that the health of our neighborhoods and our community is important. However, the ECPD also understands the effects that law enforcement intervention can have on a person’s life. While we do not focus on low level criminal incidents, we also do not completely ignore them. In the last two years, the police department has dramatically de-emphasized responses to low level offenses, reducing arrests by almost 50%.

3. What types of oversight and accountability mechanisms are in place in El Cerrito?

El Cerrito is a small city with great opportunities for credible accountability and oversight. The City Council of El Cerrito are elected representatives of residents tasked with providing leadership and policy direction for the City. Under the policies established by the City Council, the City Manager is responsible for the professional management of all operations of the City. The City Manager is the City’s chief executive, hired by and directly responsible to the City Council. The El Cerrito City Manager has oversight over all City departments responsible for implementing programs and delivering public services. In particular, the City Manager is responsible for hiring, supervising, and firing the Chief of Police.

The City Manager is developing new practices to ensure that Police Department complaints, internal investigations, and uses of force are properly and thoroughly reviewed by her office. Each month, the City Manager will review new complaints and/or uses of force that have occurred as well as the dispositions of investigations. In her role as a direct report to the City Council, she may review significant incidents with the City Council for direction.

The El Cerrito Police Department will begin annually reporting statistics and data related to the use of force in the summer of 2020 and thereafter in the department’s annual report.

Although some residents have requested that all internal investigations and complaints be made public, state law prohibits this practice. Currently, state lawmakers are considering legislation that may change the confidentiality of some police investigations. State Senator Skinner has sponsored SB 776 that seeks to make all uses of force and complaints of dishonesty and sexual misconduct public records, regardless of whether the allegations were sustained.

4. What is the complaint process? How can I make a complaint?

The ECPD posts our complaint form online and offers several ways for community members to make complaints about police officer behavior. Community members can complain in person at the El Cerrito Police Department, they can contact the department by phone at either (510) 215-4400 (during business hours) or by calling dispatch after hours at (510) 233-1214, or they can complete a complaint form and either mail it or drop it off at the Police Department or City Hall. Some residents choose to make their complaint by email. For those interested in using email, they can send their complaints directly to the Chief of Police at pkeith@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us. For more information, please visit our Professional Standard Page.

5. Does the ECPD use militarized equipment?

The definition of militarized equipment can vary from person to person. All of the equipment used by the El Cerrito Police Department is designed for law enforcement use. Some pieces of equipment may also be used by branches of the United States Military. Here are some examples of police equipment used by the ECPD that are commonly available on the civil market in the United States:

• Body Armor
• Ballistic Helmets
• Pepper Spray
• Firearms (rifles, shotguns, and pistols)
• Uniforms
• Taser devices
• Remote Controlled Drones
• Sedans and SUVs
• Handcuffs
• Radio Systems
• Body Worn Cameras
• Emergency Lighting Equipment

The following is a list of items sometimes used by ECPD, that are restricted to law enforcement in California:

• Police Baton
• 40mm Launcher
• Specialty Munitions (sponge rounds, tear gas, smoke)
• Lojack (Stolen Vehicle Locator Device)

The El Cerrito Police Department does not have any armored vehicles and has not received any equipment from the public safety procurement program, formerly the 1033 program. (https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oes-divisions/law-enforcement/public-safety-procurement-program/leso-program)

6. Is the City evaluating other ways to respond to mental health and homeless incidents?

Currently, the El Cerrito Police Department responds to a number of incidents that do not necessarily constitute a crime. For example, the ECPD may send officers to calls of suicidal people, welfare checks on people laying down on the sidewalk, homelessness issues, neighbor disputes, domestic arguments, and parenting help, to name a few. The officers and supervisors assigned to these calls carefully review the nature of the incident and may decide that a law enforcement response is not required. The ECPD prioritizes calls for help in which a person may be in physical danger or in medical distress.

Because responses to non-criminal matters are infrequent, staffing a 24-hour response at the City level would not be cost effective. Instead, a regional approach would make more financial sense.

El Cerrito is working with other cities to partner with Contra Costa County or a non-governmental organization to create a more robust response to non-criminal incidents. Ideally, a team of EMTs and social workers will be available to the region around the clock to respond to low risk calls involving mental health, homelessness, addiction issues and many more. The City of El Cerrito is in the early stages of developing a response concept.

7. Does the ECPD engage in De-Escalation, Racial Profiling, and Implicit Bias training?

El Cerrito Police regularly participates in training on the topics of De-escalation, Racial Profiling, Communication, Crisis Intervention, and Implicit Bias. All recruits complete a basic police academy, certified by the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training.

8. How does the ECPD policy match up to Use of Force change campaigns?

The El Cerrito Police have previously released a document regarding how El Cerrito Police practices compare to the recommendations by Campaign Zero and their 8cantwait campaign. You can find the ECPD policy positions here: https://www.el-cerrito.org/DocumentCenter/View/14317/ECPD-Letter-regarding-8cantwait-

The ECPD is currently reviewing policing positions relating to requiring the use of de-escalation techniques, prohibiting officers from shooting at moving vehicles, and tracking the display of a firearm as a use of force.

9. How does Asset Forfeiture work?

When the ECPD seizes assets pursuant to a criminal investigation, the Department coordinates the seizure with the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office. Asset seizure cases are not automatic and involve a judicial process. The use of funds seized in these cases is restricted by California Law. The Legislative Analyst’s Office created a very helpful summary of how asset forfeiture works in California. You can find the LAO’s report here: https://lao.ca.gov/Publications/Report/4128

10. Do police labor unions have special protections in El Cerrito?

All internal investigations in El Cerrito comply with section 3300 of the California Government Code. This means that officers are afforded some procedural guarantees when they are the subject of an investigation. The section outlines employer requirements, such as allowing an officer to have a representative present, telling an officer the nature of an internal investigation, and restricting how many people can ask questions during an interrogation. These protections are required by law and are also extended to all ECPD employees because they provide reasonable guidelines for how an investigation should be conducted.

The labor contract for law enforcement in El Cerrito does not require binding arbitration. This means that employees can not require the use of an arbitrator if they disagree with the outcome of an investigation or recommended discipline.

Some have asked why officers continue to be paid while they are under investigation. This is because the state requires that agencies afford employees “due process” before terminating their employment. An investigation is considered one of these “due process” systems.

11. How has the City reduced funding to the Police Department?

Some have called for the Police Department budget to be reduced by an unspecified amount. As part of the City’s strategy to reduce expenditures, the ECPD has faced an equivalent reduction in funding compared to other City departments. The City Council has not yet completed their review of the City budget for the current fiscal year and additional cuts are likely, across the City.

The City is also evaluating what other programs might provide additional services to community members in El Cerrito. As part of the process, the City will work to identify the costs associated with these programs and where funding may come from.

12. Why isn’t El Cerrito listed on the California Police Scorecard?

Campaign Zero, the publishers of the California Police Scorecard, selected which agencies they wanted represented in their study. They did not select El Cerrito.

13. Does El Cerrito have a drone program?

In 2020, the ECPD began using a drone to support field operations, after a period of public input in 2019. The police department owns a DJI Mavic Pro, a civil drone equipped with a camera. The drone allows officers deploy a camera in the sky to take crime scene photographs and assist with search operations. Since the program began, the Police Department posts a log online of how the drone was used, for the public to review. You can find out more information about drone police and aerial operations at: http://el-cerrito.org/1400/Aerial-Operations.

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Public Works - Maintenance

Show All Answers

1. Who maintains the sidewalk?

The Maintenance Division (at 510-215-4369) maintains public sidewalks and performs repairs where city trees have caused damage. Maintenance Department.

2. My tree needs to be trimmed. I don't think it's been trimmed for several years.

City trees are pruned by the City on a rotational basis; if you think a City tree needs attention, please contact the Public Works Maintenance Division to make a request: maintenance@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us or (510) 215- 4369.

3. I like the plants that are growing around the new City Hall. Can you tell me the name of the one that is blonde on top.

That plant's common name is Mexican Feathergrass. But we have found it to be quite invasive.

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Recreation - Aquatics

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1. Is the pool an indoor or an outdoor pool?

The pool is outdoors.

2. How big are the pools?

The competition pool is 25 yards by 25 meters in size. We currently run the lane lines in the yards direction only. There are eight competition lanes and a shallow section that is a little more than one lane wide.

The recreation pool is 25 yards long. It has three 25-yard lap lanes as well as several shallow sections, a fountain, and water slide.

3. How many laps are in a mile?

One mile is 72 laps (one lap of the pool is 25 yards).

4. Do I need to be a member?

No. We are a public pool owned and operated by the City of El Cerrito. All of our programs are available to the public on a fee basis.

5. What types of chemicals are in the water?

In order to keep the water sanitary and safe and adhere to health regulations, we use liquid chlorine (sodium hypo chlorite), hydrochloric acid, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), and calcium chloride. At times additional chemicals may be used in order to insure the proper balance of the water. If you have questions about possible allergic reactions to any of these chemicals please contact a healthcare professional.

6. Do you have lockers?

Yes. Each locker room is equipped with plenty of lockers. They are coin operated ($.50) or you may use your own lock. Lockers are for day use only. Lockers or belongings left over night may be discarded.

7. Are my belongings safe at the Swim Center?

There are so many different people and groups that use the Swim Center on a regular basis that it is difficult for our staff to keep an eye on everyone’s belongings. You should never bring anything of value to the Swim Center and what you do bring is only safe in a properly secured locker. The City of El Cerrito is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

8. How old is a senior? How old is a child?

For our purposes, a senior is at least 60 years old, and a child is 1 year up to 17 years old. For family swim and recreation swim, children under 1 year old are admitted at no charge.

9. How old do you have to be to participate in lap swim?

You must be 14 years old and older. Lap swim is a time designed for adults.

10. Why do nonresidents pay more than residents?

Residents or their landlords pay property taxes that help the city to subsidize our programs and operations, therefore nonresidents pay a 25% surcharge for our classes and passes.

11. Who is considered a resident?

Residents live within the city limits of El Cerrito. If your postal zip code is 94530, you are an El Cerrito resident.

12. It’s hot outside today. Can I come swimming?

If there is a scheduled family / recreation swim (for kids) or lap swim (for adults), then you are welcome to swim during those times. In order to serve the needs of the whole community, our pools are programmed seven days a week with a variety of activities. We cannot cancel prescheduled programs because it is hot outside and others may wish to use the pool. We do offer recreation swim seven days a week in the summer.

13. It’s raining and cold. Is the pool still open or are swimming lessons still happening?

Yes. The only weather that closes the pool is thunder and lightning or anything that prevents the lifeguard from seeing the bottom of the pool.

14. What is the difference between family swim and recreation swim?

Both family swim and recreation swim are times that the recreation pool is open for free play. During family swim times, an adult in the water must accompany all children. This is a quieter time and is designed for families with younger children. The water slide is available for use only during recreation swim.

15. Why don’t you allow my child to wear flotation devices?

We believe, as do most public pools, that children are most safe in the water under the close supervision of their parent or other responsible adult. When a child is wearing a flotation device, we believe that parents develop a false sense of security and do not supervise their child as closely as they otherwise would. In addition, children may feel more confident in the water than they should. Although our pool has shallow enough areas that everyone can stand up, that does not mean that they are safe. When children lose their balance, even in very shallow water, it is very difficult for them to regain it. We have taught thousands of children and adults how to swim without the aid of flotation devices; if anything flotation devices teach poor body position and unwarranted confidence in an environment where caution should always be exercised.

16. What temperature are your swimming pools?

The Recreation Pool is 82-84 degrees and the Competition Pool is 79-81 degrees.

17. Why do you have so many rules?

The main reason behind all of our rules is safety. It may seem like we have a lot of rules but swimming pools are full of hazards and we don’t like people to get hurt.

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Recreation Department

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1. Where is the Community and Swim Center located?

7007 Moeser Ln. El Cerrito, CA 94530

2. What is the Community Center Office hours of operation?

The Community Center Office is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and alternating Fridays from 8am to 5pm and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8am to 6pm.

3. How do I contact the Recreation Department?

Email Us

Call Us:

Community Center Phone: (510) 559-7000

Swim Center Phone: (510) 559-7011

Stop In:

Address: 7007 Moeser Lane, El Cerrito, CA 94530

4. What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept check, cash or charge (Visa, Mastercard or American Express).

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Solid Waste and Recycling

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1. Can I recycle food scraps in my green waste container?

Yes, all food scraps and food soiled paper are now accepted via the weekly green waste collection program - for complete details see our recycling information.

2. Where do I recycle?

For a complete list of where to recycle what, visit the RE:Source Guide.

3. Can I drop off Styrofoam at the recycling center?

The Recycling Center currently accepts clean, hard block, white Expanded Polystyrene / EPS / Styrofoam^™ -- ONLY from El Cerrito residents, and ONLY on THURSDAYS. Proof of residency is required. Drive behind the facility just like for the HHW drop-off for the forklift operators to assist you. For additional resources, please check the re:source website.

4. Do you do buy-back (pay out) for cans, bottles, cardboard and/or paper?

The El Cerrito Recycling Center does not do buy-back for any recyclable materials. Go to www.bottlesandcans.com to search for a facility near you that redeems California Redemption Value (CRV) glass, plastic and aluminum beverage containers. Or go to http://www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/depart/cd/recycle/options/all.htm for a Contra Costa County database of recyclers by item.

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Vegetation Management for Fire Safety

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1. What are "Very High Fire Hazard Severity (VHFHS) Zones"?

Per California State Law and in the City of El Cerrito's Fire Hazard Reduction Program, any geographic area designated per Government Code section 51178 to contain the type and condition of vegetation, topography, weather and structure density to potentially increase the possibility of wildland conflagration fires. As a community adjacent to extensive wildland areas, the City of El Cerrito contains several VHFHS zones. A map of these zones is available from the Fire Department. Fire hazard reduction standards are more extensive for properties located within VHFHS zones.

2. What is meant by the term "defensible space"?

Defensible Space is a concept in landscape design for homes which provides a band of managed vegetation around a home that slows movement of fire by reducing or denying fuel and provides a space for fire fighters to take a stand to protect the house.

3. What are fire resistant plants?

"Fire resistant plants" is a relative term used to describe plants that are "more resistant" or "less resistant" than other plants to fire. Given enough heat, all vegetation will burn. Yet plants in fact differ in how fast they burn, how high a flame they produce and their ability to survive fire. Fire resistance is enhanced by higher amounts of moisture within twigs and foliage. Fire-resistant plants can lose this quality altogether if not properly maintained and irrigated. A partial list of fire resistant and highly flammable plants is available from Diablo Fire Safe Council  and the El Cerrito Fire Department.

4. What is considered "Fire hazardous vegetation"?

Fire hazardous vegetation includes plants which can burn easily because they generate dry undergrowth, contain flammable oils or produce significant quantities of dead or dying material. Hazardous vegetation is fuel which must be removed or strictly maintained so as not to constitute a fire hazard by igniting easily and then contributing to rapid fire spread. Seasonally dry grass, weeds, brush, and unmaintained and unirrigated trees and ornamental vegetation are examples of fire hazardous vegetation. Properly chipped, mulched and disbursed material does not constitute fire hazardous vegetation. Fire hazardous vegetation is also known as flammable vegetation and combustible growth.

5. What is "Ornamental landscaping"?

Ornamental landscaping: Decorative plants growing within a tended garden or yard which are appropriately irrigated, maintained and located to provide aesthetic decoration and functional utility, such as privacy screening, shade, weed suppression and erosion control. The use of fire-resistant plants and the removal of fire hazardous vegetation will enhance fire safety.

6. What is a "Firebreak"?

A firebreak is an area in which all flammable vegetation or combustible growth is removed and cleared away, thereby eliminating fire hazardous vegetation fuels which can rapidly transmit fire. Ornamental landscaping is permissible within a firebreak as long as it is adequately irrigated, maintained and spaced so as not to provide a means of rapidly transmitting fire. (note: firebreak is different than fuel break.)

7. What is a fuel break?

A fuel break is an area in which all flammable vegetation or combustible growth is reduced and cleared away according to established standards, thereby limiting the mass and arrangement of fire hazardous vegetation fuels which can rapidly transmit fire. Appropriate ornamental landscaping is permissible within a fuel break. Fuel reduction standards for fuel breaks limit the height of certain vegetation (brush, native shrubs, weeds and grasses), remove from trees any fuels which can ladder fire into the canopies, and provide adequate spacing between remaining plants.