Frequently Asked Questions

Call the County Assessor/Recorder/County Clerk at (619) 236-3771 or visit their website.

The Poway Municipal Code is available online. The document is searchable to assist in locating information.

Apply for a new, or renew your Business Certificate, Regulatory License and/or Home Occupation Permit online.

Call the County Assessor/Recorder/County Clerk at (619) 236-3771 or visit their website.

Completed claims must be mailed to:

City of Poway, Attn: City Clerk
P.O. Box 789
Poway, CA 92074

or hand-delivered to:

City of Poway, Office of the City Clerk, 1st Floor
13325 Civic Center Drive
Poway, CA 92064

Claim Form

Many documents are immediately available and searchable through the City's Public Records Portal. If you have any questions or difficulty searching, you may contact the Clerk's Office at (858) 668-4530 for assistance.

Contact information can be found on the City Council page.

A comprehensive cost of service study was conducted in 2021 to determine the city’s cost of providing services. Studies are important to ensure the City’s cost recovery is in alignment with the cost to provide service.  The amount charged for a fee may not exceed the cost of providing the service. 

The Poway Fire Department is funded through a combination of property taxes and user fees. Tax dollars help provide for the availability fire prevention and protection, and emergency medical services. While tax dollars do help subsidize a small portion of the ambulance operation, patients transported by ambulance must pay an additional fee for the individual service they received.  The fees help lessen the burden on the tax paying public.

Fees will be adjusted each year effective July 1 based on the Consumer Price Index.

The City Attorney is appointed by, and serves at the pleasure of, the City Council. The City of Poway, represented by the City Council, is the City Attorney’s client.

For emergencies, call 911. Non-emergencies should be reported to the Sheriff's Office non-emergency dispatch 858-868-3200.

To have an existing water meter turned on, or to transfer water service into your name, you will need to complete an Application for Water Service (PDF) at least 24 hours prior to the date you would like to start service. Requests for service starts must be for a normal business day. The application can be submitted in person or online. 

Payment options can be found on the Pay Your Bill page. For water customers paying in-person, we accept cash, money orders and checks only. We cannot accept debit or credit card payments at the counter. You may use our online payment system for debit or credit card payments (a transaction fee will apply).

Water payments may be sent by mail, dropped off in the secure water payment depository box in the City Hall parking lot, or made online. The secure payment box is available at all times.

If you arrive at your new residence on a non-business day (the City offices are closed weekends, holidays, and alternating Fridays), please review the information below:

• Water service is reinstated at no cost during regular business hours.  If service is required outside of our business hours, an after-hours fee will apply.
• To request water service reinstatement during non-business hours, contact the Public Works Department at 858-668-4751.
• The technician will require you to sign an agreement acknowledging responsibility for the after-hours fees and confirming that you will contact our office by 9:00 a.m. on the next business day.
• You must complete and submit a water service application, along with a copy of each applicant’s driver’s license.

Additional information, including contact details, the water service application, and applicable after-hours fees, is available on our website.

Start, Transfer, or Stop Water / Sewer Service | Poway, CA - Official Website

All requests for a temporary construction hydrant meter must be made in person at least 2 business days before the meter is needed during City Hall normal business hours.

Online bill pay is available for Water / Sewer Utility Bills and is free to all water / sewer customers. To get started, you will need to have your account number and service address available. More information can be found on the Pay Your Bill page.

Each customer belongs in 1 of 4 billing cycles which are sent out on a bi-monthly basis (every other month).  There are 2 dates listed on the bill.  The first date (labeled Due Date), is approximately 11 days after the mail date and advises when payment is due, and also when the auto-payment is drawn (for those customers that have signed up).  The second date listed (labeled Past Due Date), is the last day that payment can be received by our office before a late payment penalty is assessed.  Please keep in mind that the City is not responsible for mail delivery times, and a postmark does not determine the payment date.

The San Diego County Water Authority (SDCWA) is the regional agency that supplies most of the water used in Poway. The City of Poway buys imported water from the SDCWA at wholesale rates. The line item on your bill reflects Poway’s cost to purchase water from SDCWA. The SDCWA rates are effective January 21, 2026 and will help ensure the financial sustainability of the water enterprise. 

Fees may appear on your bill due to penalties associated with late or returned payments.

Any account balance remaining after the Past Due Date listed on the bill will incur a 10% or $50 late fee (whichever is less). Each account is eligible for one late fee waiver every rolling two years.

Properties that are tagged with a red shut-off notice will incur a $32 fee. One red tag fee waiver is allowed per account. If payment is not made by the deadline stated on the red tag, a $54 shutoff fee will be applied. This fee cannot be waived.

Returned payments will incur a $25 fee. This fee cannot be waived.

Go to the Understanding Your Bill information page.

No repairs were made to your meter. The term “fixed” refers to the type of charge, not a repair. A fixed charge is a standard monthly fee that remains the same each billing cycle, regardless of how much water is used. This line item was previously labeled “Basic Service.” It was updated to “Fixed Water Meter Service Charge” to more accurately describe the purpose of the charge, which helps cover the ongoing costs of providing and maintaining water service and meter infrastructure. This update reflects a change in description only. Any future adjustments to rates will continue to follow the City’s adopted rate schedule and public review process.

The City of Poway does not provide financial assistance for filling your pool. To ensure that the filling of your pool does not affect your sewer billing, it is recommended that you not fill your pool during the winter months of November-April. For an explanation of how your sewer charge is calculated, please read more about Rates and Fees or contact a customer service representative during business hours.

Each year wastewater rates are recalculated to include the previous three years winter water use. This excludes the current winter season. The recalculated rate will be reflected in bills mailed to customers in the months of March or April depending on your bill cycle.

The fixed bimonthly wastewater charge recovers a portion of the City’s fixed costs of system capacity, billing, and administrative overhead. The commodity rate recovers the cost of wastewater treatment based on consumer use.

We take 85% of the lowest winter water use based on the assumption that 15% of the billed water use is not returned to the sewer system for irrigation and pool filling, while the remaining 85% is returned to wastewater.

We use the last three years average of lowest winter water use to account for variations in weather, leaks, or other variations, that may cause a higher than normal wastewater bill are minimized for our customers.

Commercial and other non-residential customers pay wastewater charges based on their water consumption for that billing period. All customers also pay a fixed bimonthly wastewater service charge based on water meter size and customer classification to recover the City’s costs for system capacity, billing, and administrative overhead.

Unfortunately, we do not make sewer adjustments based on tenant/property owner changes. The current calculation method is based on a resolution, adopted in accordance with the City of Poway Municipal Code (PMC 13.11.120). According to this policy, residential wastewater usage is determined once per year using a standardized method that relies on the property's water use during the previous three winter periods (November through April).

For each of the past three years, the lowest water consumption during the winter months is identified. These three lowest values are then averaged, and 85% of that average is used to estimate the property's wastewater generation. Since this is a rolling three-year average, adjustments are made on the first full bill of each calendar year. 

This approach provides a less volatile change in annual rates for ratepayers year over year and provides an equitable solution to accurately reflect water usage while also ensuring financial resiliency and sustainability of the wastewater system.

The fixed bimonthly wastewater charge recovers a portion of the City’s fixed costs of system capacity, billing, and administrative overhead. The commodity rate recovers the cost of wastewater treatment based on consumer use. For newly constructed single-family residential properties with no winter water use history, the customer will be billed for 15 units of wastewater generation (the average residential generation calculated in the November 10, 2025 Water and Wastewater Cost of Service Study Report) until winter water use is established with one full billing cycle during the winter months of November through April.

• Right-of-way and easement encroachment activities
• Public water or wastewater work by contractors
• Tie-ins
• Shutdowns
• Potholing
• Pressure testing
• Bacti’s
• Jobs that require boring

The Poway CityApp is a one-stop civic engagement tool for residents of the City of Poway. Our mobile application offers a simple way to directly route service requests (streetlights, traffic signals and other non-emergency items) to the appropriate department.

The city has tried to maintain a uniform level of maintenance throughout the landscaped areas. Under Assessment District law, the city can only use funds collected from property owners within a zone for costs associated directly and specifically with that zone. In some zone areas, the assessments allowed by law have not been sufficient to pay for basic maintenance costs; so, essentially, some zones have been “under funded.” This is especially true when considering the costs necessary to replace dying plants and trees, replace or repair vandalized equipment, or renovate older irrigation systems.

The fees associated with registering our commercial or home-based business are eligible to be waived if located within city limits.  Out of city businesses are not eligible.  Other fees such as regulatory licenses, permits, or other planning fees are required, as needed.

City of Poway requires that every person engaging in business with the City register their business. Submitting your application does not authorize commencement of business. Registration and renewals are valid for a two-year period.

Your business is eligible if it is located within the city limits and is a commercial or home-based business. Out of city businesses are not eligible for the fee waiver.

To be eligible for the fee waiver program, the business must be located within city limits. For non-Poway commercial businesses doing business in Poway, submit your application with your fees which can be paid at City Hall with cash or check.  You may also mail your payment with your application.

Refunds will not be processed for any fees previously paid. However, your business may be eligible for a fee waiver upon renewing your registration for your commercial or home-based business. One fee waiver will be granted to each business in the Poway Business Registration Fee Waiver Program.

Home occupation permits are restricted to businesses that are appropriate in residential settings. The permit renewal process requires updated business information and allows the city to ensure that the business is conforming.

The initial cost to apply is $119: $115 for the application and $4 for the California Disability Fee. The permit is valid for 2 years. The renewal is $24 which includes the $4 California Disability Fee, every other year. This is not a tax but a flat fee that is calculated to recover the costs incurred to process the application only. Once the application process has started, no refunds are allowed. 

Current permit holders will have 2 years before a renewal is required. As the expiration date approaches, reminder emails will be sent to the email address associated with the account to prompt renewal.

No, home occupation permit holders will not be required to additionally register their businesses because the permit process requires a separate, equally thorough review.

Staffing, which ensures a safe, memorable, and positive day camp experience for all campers is our number one priority. Experienced City of Poway staff serve as on-site coordinators and program directors and all participants, activities, and field trips are carefully supervised. Day Camp counselors go through extensive pre-employment screening and are all CPR and First Aid certified.

The answers to most commonly asked questions can be located on our Day Camp website. For questions regarding camp registration, waiting lists, or refunds, please call the Community Services Department Class Registration line at 858-668-4570. If you still need assistance, please call the Lake Poway Day Camp line at 858-668-4776.

A camp lead is on-site at all times. Each of our camp leads and group counselors are trained in First Aid and CPR, and emergency medical services are minutes away. Before camp begins, all staff participate in an emergency response training that focuses on camp safety practices and procedures. In addition, the park is patrolled by Lake Rangers.

Lake Poway Day Camp follows strict guidelines with camper medication. If your camper requires medication, please be sure to fill out all of the necessary paperwork that can be found on the Forms Page. We are unable to accept medication without these forms, which also require a physician's signature. On the 1st day of each camp week, we collect medication during sign-in, and store it in a locked area. During the camp day, medication is administered by our on-site camp lead. Inhalers and Epi-Pens will also be collected during sign-in. Group counselors will carry inhalers and Epi-Pen with them at all times to ensure they are accessible when necessary.

Lake Poway Day Camp provides an extended care program as a service for working parents that are not able to pick up their children by 4 p.m. This program runs from 4-5:30 p.m. Campers will automatically begin transitioning into the extended care program at approximately 4 p.m. If you are not able to pick up your child by 5:30 p.m., you are responsible for making alternative arrangements, as staff is not authorized to work past program hours.

CIT is short for Counselor in Training. Our CIT program is designed for teens, ages 13 to 17, who are interested in developing leadership and communication skills, participating in outdoor adventures, and having fun. Each week CITs assist a day camp group as they go swimming, hiking, boating, fishing, create arts and crafts projects, play creative group games, participate in exciting field trips, and explore the outdoors. The CIT program is ideal for those teens who have aged out of the traditional day camp program, yet still want to participate in all the fun that the program offers. Participation in the CIT program is not a guarantee of employment. CITs may request a letter acknowledging their volunteer hours from either the lead counselor or the camp coordinator.

If you are looking for emergency housing assistance, call 2-1-1 to speak with someone who can assess your situation and housing needs.

Crime statistics indicate that Poway’s affordable housing developments contribute to Poway’s safe neighborhoods and low crime rate. Poway affordable housing developments are well-maintained and strictly managed.

A $19 cancellation fee is charged for all cancellations; an additional $30 cancellation fee will be charged if cancellation is less than 14 days in advance of the event date. If you have any questions, please contact Parks and Recreation.

Amplified sound is only allowed at the indoor facilities. If you have any questions, please contact Parks and Recreation.

Liability Insurance is required for events that have 50 or more persons or when alcohol is present. A copy of the city's facility use insurance requirements (PDF) is available to help you secure the insurance you need for your event. If you have any questions, please contact Parks and Recreation.

Yes, however, there are additional fees that are required and it may only be present during an adult function, for example, a wedding, anniversary, or adult party. For additional information on the fees, please contact Community Services at 858-668-4595.

The city requires all facility rentals at which alcohol will be present with 100 or more attendees to hire security guard service. Uniformed security personnel must be present 30 minutes before alcohol is served, and must remain through the end of the cleanup. See a copy of the requirements (PDF) that must be met by security personnel. If you have any questions, please contact Parks and Recreation.

Yes, and it is encouraged in order to review the rules and regulations with staff on-site. If you have any questions, please contact Parks and Recreation.

Poway Municipal Code Title 15 adopted the following building codes with local amendments:

• 2025 California Administrative Code
• 2025 California Building Code
• 2025 California Electrical Code
• 2025 California Residential Code
• 2025 California Plumbing Code
• 2025 California Mechanical Code
• 2025 California Energy Code
• 2025 California Historical Code
• 2025 California Building Standards Code
• 2025 California Existing Building Code
• 2025 California Green Building Standards Code
• 2025 Referenced Standard Code
• 2025 California Fire Code
• 1997 Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings

Go to PowGIS, click on ‘Search’, enter in your address, then click the search icon, then ‘Community Info’, then expand the ‘Planning Information’ data. 

The length of time to process your permit can vary depending on the nature of your project. Each plan review cycle requires up to 14 calendar days for building review and up to 28 calendar days for planning and engineering reviews. The number of review/revision cycles is dependent upon the quality of the application materials the responsiveness to comments received. All applications are received through the City’s online portal.

Fees will vary with the size and scope of the project. The larger the residence, and the more water and sewer connections, the higher the Building Permit fee. There are building plan check and Building Permit fees. Please contact the Building Division for any estimates.

A set of building plans are needed and will provide all the information necessary so that the city can determine if the project complies with all city standards. It is your responsibility to have the plans prepared. The degree of information needed in a set of plans is dependent on the scale of the project. Download the Building Permit Application Checklist for a list of requirements.

For a new residence or for additions to an existing home, the set of plans will include, at a minimum, a site plan, floor plans, building sections, foundation plan, and roof plan elevations. Remodels may require less detailed information. Contact the Building Division for specific information regarding what will be needed for your specific project.

• Structural calculations
• Energy truss calculations (i.e., Title 24 calculations)
• Soils reports

• Licensed contractors
• Property owners
• Agents for licensed contractors
• Agents for the property owner

• 2 sets of plans
• 1 additional site plan

• 3 sets of plans
• 2 sets of structural and energy use calculations and one copy of the soils report and truss calculations (if applicable)

Certain types of work require a Grading Permit, in addition to a Building Permit.

Fire Department and Code Compliance staff have previously conducted an evaluation of your property and determined that your property needs active vegetation management in specified abatement areas only. Typically, these abatement areas no longer contain native vegetation, but consist of previously abated areas where annual weeds and grasses have grown back since last season. In addition to these areas, you should annually inspect for dead shrubs and trees, and remove them from the property. The majority of people who receive this letter should already be familiar with the abatement areas on their property; they are usually the same areas abated every year.

If you are a new property owner, new to the Vegetation Management Program, or are just unsure about the exact areas to cut, please call us at 858-668-4660.

Poway has several native habitats, which are home to a number of federally protected, sensitive, rare, threatened, and endangered plant and animal species. Native vegetation includes, but is not limited to grassland, sage scrub, chaparral, and wetlands. Please do not clear areas of native vegetation outside of your previously established abatement areas. If you are in doubt as to where you need to abate, please call us at 858-668-4660 before you cut, and we will be glad to help you identify your abatement areas.

• Disking – Because of recent restrictions placed by the State Regional Water Quality Control Board, disking is no longer an acceptable method of vegetation management.
• Goats – Goats are not an acceptable method of vegetation management because they tend to only eat some plants, while leaving others behind. Also, if not properly controlled, they range into areas not specified in our Vegetation Management Program, destroying valuable native habitats and exposing you to costly fines!

To make a complaint, please email us or you may use the online Web Service Request page which is located here: Service Request | Poway, CA - Official Website.  Please include your name, address and daytime phone number, and provide us with as much information as possible relating to your complaint. You may also file a complaint by calling 858-668-4660.

Once a complaint is received the site will be visited. If warranted, a letter will be sent to the property owner requiring the weeds to be removed. You can submit your complaint online.

Code Compliance will visit the site and send a letter as necessary. You can also contact the County of San Diego’s Department of Environmental Health, which has the Vector Control Program that serves all residents of San Diego County. They handle mosquitoes, rodents and general vector control. The Fight the Bite website has information about mosquitoes, rodents, and other vector control issues. The telephone number for the Vector Control Program is 858-694-2888.

Citizens are often unaware that their dogs bark for extended periods of time while they are away from home. The City of Poway contracts with the San Diego Humane Society for animal control and dog barking complaints. Please call 619-299-7012 and leave your full name, address, address of the dog(s) and basic details about the complaint on the message line. An Animal Control Officer will notify the owners in writing about the barking.

Please understand that a barking dog is not necessarily a violation of the Poway Municipal Code and that calmly discussing a barking dog problem with your neighbor is often the best way to handle the situation.

Concerns about vehicles on the street should be referred to the Sheriff’s Poway Station at 858-513-2800.

Once you have an alarm company, you must apply for an alarm permit (PDF) with Munipal, the City’s contractor that manages the alarm system. You can also apply online using the City of Poway Alarm Site. You will need to pay a one-time fee of $69. 

The maximum rate that can be charged by EDCO for trash and recycling services is approved at a public hearing by the Poway City Council. The published agenda report provides an overview of fees, including the franchise fee and AB 939 fee.

“E-waste” is the popular name for electronic products nearing the end of their useful life, and includes computers, televisions, VCRs, fax machines, and stereos. Cathode Ray Tubes (CRTs) found in most televisions and computer monitors contain approximately 5 to 7 pounds of lead, a hazardous material, which requires special handling. Therefore, computer monitors, televisions, and other electronic equipment should not be disposed in the trash. It is recommended that unwanted electronic items in good working condition be donated to your local thrift store or other charitable organization.

Free disposal of non-operational electronic waste is available for Poway Residents at the City of Poway’s Household Hazardous Waste every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (the facility is closed on weekdays and Saturdays preceding or following a major holiday.) The facility is located in the city’s Materials Handling Yard located at 12325 Crosthwaite Circle, off Stowe Drive, east of Community Road in the South Poway Business Park. Residents are encouraged to combine delivery of e-waste with their next trip to the household hazardous waste facility to dispose of unwanted paints, solvents, automotive fluids, auto batteries, and other unused household toxins.

A special AB 939 fee appears on the monthly EDCO residential trash bills, which is passed through to the city to fund its household hazardous waste and e-waste disposal programs. The Regional Solid Waste Association (RSWA) assumed the operation of the Poway permanent HHW collection facility in July 2000. The City of Poway has realized a significant savings in HHW disposal costs under the contract RSWA entered into with EDCO Waste and Recycling Services and its subcontractor, to provide HHW management services at a fixed cost.

EDCO provides Christmas tree collection services in the City of Poway. Follow these guidelines for curbside collection of Christmas trees: Remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel and tree stand;  Trees over four feet should be cut in half; Place trimmed tree inside your green waste cart with the lid closed; Flocked trees are NOT acceptable in your green waste must be placed in trash;  Artificial trees are not recyclable and must be placed in the trash. Look for more details about tree recycling in your EDCO billing statement, view the Organic Recycling page on their website, or call EDCO Disposal at 858-748-7769.

Poway residents may dispose of household hazardous waste at the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility located at 12325 Crosthwaite Circle, off Stowe Drive, east of Community Road in the South Poway Business Park. The facility is open every Saturday (except holiday weekends) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The facility accepts leftover paint, auto fluids, drain opener, or any unused products containing toxic chemicals used to maintain your home or automobile. Products labeled caution, warning, danger, poison, toxic, flammable, or corrosive are considered hazardous.

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a dwelling unit which provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a lot with another single-family residence (SFR) or multi-family residence (MFR).

A Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) is an ADU which is attached to a SFR that does not exceed 500 square feet (sf) and has additional allowances and restrictions as described below.

To determine if your property permits either an ADU and/or a JADU please refer to the Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units: General Information handout.

SB 9 mandates jurisdictions, such as the City of Poway, to ministerially approve a housing SB 9 development containing no more than two (2) residential units on a single lot within a single-family residential zone, excluding certain areas (“units” is inclusive of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs)).  ADUs may be permissible after two (2) main single-family residences on a single lot are established.  Additionally, the City must ministerially process an Urban Lot Split in accordance with SB 9 and eligible development standards.

To determine if your property permits either a SB 9 development or an Urban Lot Split please refer to the ‘SB 9 Developments & Urban Lot Splits: General Information’ handout.

Go to PowGIS > click on "Search" > enter in your address > then click the search icon > then "Community Info" > then expand the "Planning Information" data. 

You can find information on commercial building setbacks in the Poway Municipal Code - PMC 17.10.120.

Information on sports court requirements can be found in the Poway Municipal Code - PMC 17.30.

Information can be found in the Poway Municipal Code - PMC 17.08.240.

Additionally, when building a wall or fence, please maintain clear access to the water meter. There must be a minimum 2-foot clearance on all sides of the water meter box and no obstructions above or over the meter box. Please review PMC 13.11.130.A for more information.

Information on permitted uses in residential zones can be found in the Poway Municipal Code - PMC 17.08.100.

Information on permitted uses in commercial zones can be found in the Poway Municipal Code - PMC 17.10.060.

Information can be found in the Poway Municipal Code - PMC 17.32.010.

Information regarding the granting of a variance can be found in the Poway Municipal Code - PMC 17.50.070.

You can find information on residential building setbacks in the Poway Municipal Code - PMC 17.08.160.

You can call the Defensible Space Hotline at 858-668-4611.

Creating defensible space refers to managing the vegetation within 100-feet of a structure. It requires:

• Cutting and trimming of highly flammable chaparral
• Removal of dead or dying trees and shrubs
• Horizontal and vertical spacing between groups of plantings
• Limiting the amount of vegetation immediately adjacent to the structure

Defensible space does not require clearing, grubbing, grading, or the exposure of bare soil. 

It is important to have a landscape design that considers the types of plants used and their arrangement that achieves the objectives stated above and as outlined in Section 4 of the City of Poway's Landscape and Irrigation Design Manual. Please note that the Landscape and Irrigation Design Manual applies only to new developments, however the concepts and ideas contained within this document can assist homeowners and designers reduce their wildfire risk. 

The goal is to reduce the risk of ignition to homes during wildfires. This primarily involves the reduction of flammable vegetation around structures. Reducing highly flammable vegetation will shorten the flame length and reduce the speed and intensity of a wildfire. Defensible space around structures will increase the ability to survive a wildfire.

The creation of defensible space is an important part of the comprehensive strategy to lessen the devastating impacts of wildfire. It is the Fire Department’s experience that providing for defensible space is an effective, efficient, proven, and practical action that a community can take to reduce our significant wildfire risk.

The program includes:

• The reduction of flammable vegetation on city-owned land near structures
• Providing individualized home assessments to homeowners
• Public education
• Annual maintenance
• Inspections to ensure that the reduction of flammable vegetation is maintained

• A home and any attached garage or other attached building
• A building designed primarily for human use
• A building designed to house farm animals

A distance of 100 feet is used to:

• Help prevent a fire from igniting a structure
• Reduce the risk of burning embers penetrating a structure
• Enhance firefighter safety

The Fire Department's Fire Prevention Officer will conduct the assessments. 

Yes, you may request a home ignition zone assessment by contacting Fire Prevention. Home assessments will be conducted based on fire risk, as determined by staff.

A no-fee application must be completed prior to the removal of any protected habitat or vegetation. The application will be completed by city staff during the home assessment process. This application allows the city to track the amount and type of vegetation removed for fire safety.

• Homeowners may do the work themselves and utilize the city’s unlimited green curbside refuse service.
• Homeowners may choose to hire a contractor, in which case, costs will vary considerably. Upon request, the city will provide contractor information for estimates.

Wood chips and organic compost are not recommended to be placed within five feet of the structure. Greater than five feet from the structure, wood chips and organic mulch are allowed at a depth of no more than six inches. Wood chip piles are regulated through the Fire Code since they can be a fire danger. 

Existing fences, decks, and detached patio covers may remain within the wildfire defensible space area. However, as these features may present an increased fire risk to the structure, nonbinding fire safe recommendations will be provided by city staff to residents. In high fire risk areas, the materials and method of construction of new fences, decks, and patio covers are regulated by Chapter 15.24.100 Wildland-Urban Interface Code in the Poway Municipal Code.

Yes, a Turf Replacement Program offered by the San Diego County Water Authority is accepting applications. For more information, visit the SoCal Water$mart website.

The City of Poway imports nearly all of its water from Northern California and the Colorado River. The City purchases this water from the San Diego County Water Authority and the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California. About 5% of Poway’s water supply is recycled water purchased from the City of San Diego for irrigation in the Business Park.

Yes. Poway has a recycled water distribution system serving the South Poway Business Park. The water is treated wastewater intended for outdoor irrigation only. The City of Poway pipes its wastewater to the City of San Diego for treatment, where it is processed as recycled water. Recycled water is transported, stored, and distributed through separate purple colored pipes.

Gray water reuses a household’s water from washing dishes, laundry, or bathing to irrigate landscaping. To legally install a gray water system, a permit from the County of San Diego is required. For more information, please contact the County's Environmental Health Division at (858) 565-5173 or view go to the Graywater Systems page.

San Diego County's Department of Environmental Health regulates water wells. For general information, call (858) 565-5173 or go to the Water Well Program website.

Flushing a fire hydrant or reservoir tank is necessary to maintain, protect and meet water quality standards. Only the required amount of water is released. And while it seems like a waste of water, reusing the water is not economical. In order to save $800 worth of water while lowering a reservoir for maintenance, it would cost $3,000 to collect and transport it to Lake Poway. City staff continues to monitor and evaluate new methods or tools that may be developed to make it economically feasible to capture and reuse this water.

Report water waste at savewater.ca.gov. For water leaks at city parks or other city-maintained areas, use the Poway CityApp or submit a service request.

For non-emergencies, you can visit the service website to submit an online service request, which will be reviewed during normal business hours.

Urgent Public Work matters that occur after normal business hours will be handled as any other after-hours or weekend matter would be handled: contact Public Works. For non-emergencies, you can visit the service website to submit an online service request, which will be reviewed during normal business hours.

The maximum rate that can be charged by EDCO for trash and recycling services is approved at a public hearing by the Poway City Council. The published agenda report provides an overview of fees, including the franchise fee and AB 939 fee.

“E-waste” is the popular name for electronic products nearing the end of their useful life, and includes computers, televisions, VCRs, fax machines, and stereos. Cathode Ray Tubes (CRTs) found in most televisions and computer monitors contain approximately 5 to 7 pounds of lead, a hazardous material, which requires special handling. Therefore, computer monitors, televisions, and other electronic equipment should not be disposed in the trash. It is recommended that unwanted electronic items in good working condition be donated to your local thrift store or other charitable organization.

Free disposal of non-operational electronic waste is available for Poway residents at the City of Poway’s Household Hazardous Waste every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (the facility is closed on weekdays and Saturdays preceding or following a major holiday.) The facility is located in the city’s Materials Handling Yard located at 12325 Crosthwaite Circle, off Stowe Drive, east of Community Road in the South Poway Business Park. Residents are encouraged to combine delivery of e-waste with their next trip to the household hazardous waste facility to dispose of unwanted paints, solvents, automotive fluids, auto batteries, and other unused household toxins.

A special AB 939 fee appears on the monthly EDCO residential trash bills, which is passed through to the city to fund its household hazardous waste and e-waste disposal programs. The Regional Solid Waste Association (RSWA) assumed the operation of the Poway permanent HHW collection facility in July 2000. The City of Poway has realized a significant savings in HHW disposal costs under the contract RSWA entered into with EDCO Waste and Recycling Services and its subcontractor, to provide HHW management services at a fixed cost.

• Right-of-way and easement encroachment activities
• Public water or wastewater work by contractors
• Tie-ins
• Shutdowns
• Potholing
• Pressure testing
• Bacti’s
• Jobs that require boring

• Pollutant-generating development project - 1 acre or more
• Residential development of 10 or more units
• Commercial development greater than 100,000 square feet
• Automotive repair shop
• Restaurant
• Steep hillside development greater than 5,000 square feet
• Creation of 2,500 square feet or more of impervious surface with discharge of runoff to an Environmentally Sensitive Area
• Parking lot larger than 5,000 square feet or with more than 15 parking spaces
• Street, road, highway, or freeway that adds more than 5,000 square feet of new paved surface
• Significant redevelopment that adds 5,000 square feet or more of new impervious surface

• Site Design (minimizing increases in runoff)
• Source Control (reducing the amount of pollution generated)
• Treatment Control (removing pollutants from runoff)

• Poway Code Compliance (during business hours) at 858-668-4663 or 858-668-4664, press "0" for immediate assistance
• Poway Sheriff's Station (after business hours) at 858-513-2800

No, the City’s traffic signals do not record any video.  Many signals do have cameras however the feed is not monitored and the data is not recorded.  These cameras are used solely for the detection of cars in lieu of physical loop detectors in the roadway.

The Traffic Safety Committee meets as necessary to discuss traffic issues raised by residents or City staff. The meetings are held to determine the best course of action to improve a traffic-related issue. Some recommendations from the Committee are sent to the City Council for approval or denial. These meetings are open to the public, and you are invited to attend.

The maintenance of street lights is the responsibility of the Public Works Department. To report an outage or malfunctioning traffic signal, please contact Public Works, or Public Works after hours. You can also submit a service request through the Poway CityApp or website.

Requests for new traffic signs on public streets are evaluated on a case-by-case basis following the California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). They are regulated in accordance with both State and local laws. To request a new traffic sign on a public street, please email us, or call 858-668-4640.

• Carbon monoxide alarms (CSFM category #5276)
• Carbon monoxide detectors (CSFM category #5278)
• Combination smoke / carbon monoxide alarm (CSFM category #7256 or #7257).

• Operate the reset button.
• Immediately move to fresh air - outdoors or by an open door / window.
• Call your emergency services (Fire Department or 911).

To protect your home from wildfires, you must create a safety zone, buffer zone, or firebreak of at least 100 feet around your home by reducing the amount of dead or dying vegetation. This does not necessarily mean all vegetation should be removed. In fact, having fire-resistant plants and trees around your home that are properly trimmed and well watered can serve as a firebreak. For more information, please visit the Wildfire Preparedness page or call the following:

• For protecting your home, call the Poway Fire Department at 858-668-4460.
• For protection of sensitive habitat, call the Development Services Department at 858-668-4600.

• AB CPR - 858-693-3304
• Jurman's Emergency Training - 858-452-1543
• Palomar Pomerado Health - 800-628-2880
• The American Red Cross - 858-309-1200

• Hydrant leaks - Public Works, 858-668-4700
• Fire hazards - Fire Department, 858-668-4466
• Inspections - Fire Department, Fire Prevention Division, 858-668-4470

Input your address in the interactive map to locate which district you reside in. For assistance, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at 858-668-4530.

Yes, the City’s regulations regarding campaign contributions can be found in Poway Municipal Code Chapter 2.28.

At the time nomination papers are issued, a person running for Mayor must be a resident of Poway, and a person running for City Council must reside in the district for which they are seeking election. 

Register to vote online at the Secretary of State website. Visit Voter Information to learn more.

Many documents are immediately available and searchable through the City’s Public Records Portal, Weblink.  You may also call the City Clerk’s Office at (858) 668-4530, or visit the Clerk’s Office during regular business hours.

The Public Records Act allows the city to charge the direct costs of duplication of public records with a copy charge of $0.10 for each page (per side) for standard letter / legal sheets of paper.  Actual postage and copy fees will be collected from the requester prior to mailing; if required to mail documents.

Unless cancelled, the City Council conducts regular meetings on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month at 7 p.m., in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 13325 Civic Center Drive in Poway. If you have any questions, please contact the City Clerk's Office.

The agenda is prepared, distributed and posted 7 days prior to the meeting date. Copies of the supporting documentation (staff reports) for each item can be viewed and/or purchased at the City Clerk’s Office or downloaded from the City Records Portal. If you have any questions, please contact the City Clerk's Office.

Persons wishing to address the Council on matters not on the agenda may do so under Public Comments. Those wishing to speak on items on the agenda may do so when the item is being considered.  Please submit a Speaker’s Slip to the City Clerk prior to the meeting or the announcement of the item.  All comments will be limited to three (3) minutes.  

CABLE: See the City Council meeting live on Tuesday at 7:00 pm on Cox Cable 24. The meeting will also replay on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays at 6 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 3 p.m.  ONLINE: Meetings are live and archived, available on the City Council Meeting Video page.

When a position is vacant, a notice will be posted to the bulletin board in front of City Hall and on the individual Boards and Committees pages. Fill out the Committee Application online. If you have any questions, please contact the City Clerk's Office.

You can sign up for notifications pertaining to upcoming City Council meetings online. Subscribe and an email notification will be sent to you when a meeting has been posted. If you have any questions, please contact the City Clerk's Office.

Operating a food truck in Poway requires a City-issued solicitor’s license for the business and a solicitor’s ID card for each employee who works in the vehicle. Each applicant will be required to pass a background check. A City of Poway business certificate is not required when you have a Poway solicitor’s license. If operating a food truck in a City park or facility with an approved permit issued from the Community Services Department, only a business certificate is required along with insurance that meets the City’s standards. Adherence with the County of San Diego Department of Environmental Health is also required. The County of San Diego Department of Environmental Health administers a mobile food facility inspection program with a grading system. For more information about this program visit their Environmental Health - Mobile Food Program website

Complete Application: Applications for solicitor’s license and/or ID cards can be accessed from the Business Certificates & Regulatory Licenses webpage. Application Process: Applicants will undergo a Sheriff's background check and live scan process. Customer Service will contact Applicant to schedule an appointment once paperwork has cleared. Day of Appointment: Applicants will be scheduled to finalize solicitor's license and/or ID cards at City Hall, 13325 Civic Center Drive.

Solicitor’s licenses and solicitor’s ID cards cost $50 each for the first two years (this cost includes fingerprinting) and $20 to renew every two years thereafter. Solicitor’s licenses are also subject to a mandated state fee of $4.

The Espola Road Safety Improvements Project will improve safety for those who walk, jog, cycle or ride horses along the stretch of Espola Road between Poway High School and Twin Peaks Road. Specifically, it will add a pathway where none currently exists on the west side of Espola Road, from Mountain Road (just north of Twin Peaks Road) to Willow Ranch Road (about a block south of Titan Way).

The first phase of the project will be grading the pathway and shoulder area along with installation of retaining walls and new street lights. This will be followed by the “undergrounding” of overhead utilities phase. This means that the overhead powerlines and other equipment will be moved underground, aesthetically improving the roadway and removing obstacles from the proposed pathway. SDG&E’s contractor will complete the trenching and conduit installation for all of the utility companies. SDG&E, AT&T, and Cox Communications will each complete their own cable installations in the new underground conduit and remove their facilities from the overhead poles. Once the utilities are underground, SDG&E will remove the poles. A few poles will remain in place that serve residences that are not included in the undergrounding limits.

The final phase of the project is creating a safe access by installing a decomposed granite (DG) pathway. The pathway will be generally set back from the main road and include a lodge-pole fence as a protective barrier.

This stretch of Espola Road has been the subject of discussion for more than 25 years as it’s one of the few sections that has not been upgraded along this widely-travelled corridor.

At one point, the City Council looked at – and rejected – the idea of widening it to a four-lane roadway. Staff later proposed a compromise: a three-lane roadway (a travel lane in each direction plus a continuous center left-turn lane) along with a list of other improvements that would relieve traffic, increase capacity of the existing roadway and improve safety for vehicles, pedestrians and bicyclists. City Council ultimately decided that while there wasn’t a significant enough need to widen the road, the other safety improvements were needed. (Agenda report for Oct. 1, 2013 Council Meeting) 

Most of this section has no pathway, outside of a narrow dirt trail directly alongside the busy road. Pedestrians navigate uneven walkways, utility poles, street signs and more – all while keeping an eye on cars travelling at speeds of 45 miles per hour (and higher).

The current cost estimate of the walkway including design, construction and right-of-way acquisition is approximately $2.1 million. A general fund appropriation of $2.4 million has been set aside for the walkway portion of the project. The undergrounding of overhead utilities is split into two underground utility districts and two types of funding. An underground utility district was created to use the approximately $1.89 million in Rule 20A funds available. These funds come from the rates paid by utility customers and are distributed annually by SDG&E to jurisdictions to pay for undergrounding projects. Because the 20A funds do not cover undergrounding the entire section between Twin Peaks and Titan Way, City Council directed staff to use a portion of the City’s surplus revenues to form a Rule 20B underground utility district. An appropriation of $2.6 million has been set aside for completion of the Rule 20B utility undergrounding.

The Espola Road Safety Improvement Project will not impact the current road – it will stay as is. The Poway City Council’s commitment to this is so strong that in October 2013 they went on record with a resolution confirming that it does not intend to widen Espola Road.

 But even though this project doesn’t target widening the road to accommodate more cars, it’s still expected to have a positive impact on traffic – especially when congestion is at its worst. More than 2,400 students attend Poway High and this road is the only route to and from school for a significant portion of neighborhoods within its boundaries. Constructing a pedestrian-friendly pathway will likely result in more students walking or biking to school, which in turn will reduce the number of cars on the road during peak times.

Espola Road is an essential corridor between the southeastern portion of Poway and areas to the north. Creating safe access along a stretch of road that was built long before Poway incorporated is not without its challenges.

The existing right-of-way doesn’t always provide the needed area for the project. The City acquired strips of land adjacent to the road from some property owners in order for the pathway to be built.

Construction will impact the current landscape. A few trees that exist in the area of the new pathway have been identified for removal. There are walls, utility poles, signs and other impairments that will need to be moved as well.

 As with any plan that impacts a neighborhood while enhancing the community at large, there were significant variations and points of view to consider. After thoughtful consideration, the City Council determined that this alternative would provide the balance needed between progress and preservation. Its open, natural design mirrors the “City in the Country” tone of the community while ensuring for the safety of those who travel this road.

The project is expected to take at least 17 months to complete. This includes the utility undergrounding that is being completed by the utility companies under a separate contract.

During the first phase of the project, traffic will continue to be one lane in each direction with the middle turn lane being eliminated. This configuration will likely be set up on a 24-hour basis. When the contractor needs to set up daily traffic control, the hours will be restricted to set up after 8:30 a.m. to prevent delays in morning school traffic. For daily traffic control setup, removal will be by 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and by 4 p.m. on Fridays that City Hall is open.

It is anticipated that construction activities will start at one end of the project limits and traffic control will be limited to the active construction area. For the portion of the project in which the Espola Road/Del Poniente Road intersection is narrowed, a Sheriff’s deputy will be assigned to direct traffic at that intersection on school days between 7:00 and 7:30 a.m. In addition, the traffic signal timing has been adjusted.

Vehicle and cyclists will be asked to share the road. Pedestrians will be provided a safe and clear walking area through the active construction zone. Bus routes will remain the same and no impacts are anticipated to trash collection or mail delivery.

Traffic will be impacted to varying degrees during the project depending on the segment under construction.

The Espola Road Safety Improvements project is a multi-phased project coordinating multiple construction crews over a minimum of 17 months. There was no feasible way to limit construction to times in which PUSD schools were on break. Likewise, the noise ordinance (Poway Municipal Code Section 8.08.100) restricts the days and hours that heavy machinery may be used. The City Engineer may allow for construction activities outside of normal working hours if the operations are not detrimental to the health, safety or welfare of the surrounding community. Due to the residential neighborhoods adjacent to the project area, night work would cause negative impacts and therefore was not an option.

Espola Road Safety Improvements Project

Espola Road Utility Undergrounding

It’s a top priority for the City to keep this project moving, but each step of the project has its own complexities. It is very common during construction to find unknown situations that need to be redesigned or changed to keep the project moving along. In most cases this involves behind-the-scenes work.

Yes, RV’s are allowed. But only in designated RV spots. There are no hook-ups available.

Hook-ups are not available for RV’s.

Yes, pets are allowed. All pets must be restrained at all times, and on a leash 6 feet or shorter. Pets are subject to quiet hours as well.

Camping at Lake Poway is considered a special events, and only available on specific dates during each season. We offer camping in Spring, Fall, and Family Campouts in the Summer. Camping is not offered in the Winter.

During Spring and Fall Campouts, activities for our guests are not offered. During the Family Campouts activities such as a magic show, S'mores, and Ranger led Hikes are offered. Alcohol is not permitted at Family Campouts.

Throughout the year some of our Campouts are themed. During these Campouts activities such as crafts, hikes, and interpretive presentations are available. In the past we have offered a Halloween, Space, and Earth Day Campout.

The incoming gate closes at 8 p.m. Campers may leave at anytime but will not be allowed to re-enter park after 8 p.m.

Additional vehicle permits can be purchased for a nominal fee.

Campouts are rain or shine, only under extreme weather conditions will they be cancelled.

Campout reservations made at the Lake are first come, first serve!

Yes, gas fire pits are permitted in designated areas.

• Fire and grills are restricted in Area 8
• Absolutely no wood fires

Yes, gas and charcoal grills are permitted. 

• Fire and grills are restricted in Area 8
• Absolutely no wood fires 
  
  

No, food is not provided. The Lookout Restaurant and Tackle Shop (lake concessions) is open until 9 pm. for these events. The store sells food, snacks, drinks, ice, charcoal, etc. Contact 858-883-4146 for specific inquiries about their supplies/current menu.  

One member from your reservation must stay in the park at all times. Camping supplies left unattended is subject to be moved by staff. The City of Poway is not responsible for stolen items.

Yes, there will be a City of Poway staff member on site at all times.

Call the Lake Poway office at 858-668-4772. For emergencies, contact 911.

During the Fall, and Spring campouts alcohol is permitted but must not violate our municipal code (see below). Alcohol is NOT permitted at our Family Campouts.

9.48.270 Alcoholic beverages.

1. No person shall transport into a City Community Services facility, or consume upon the premises of a City Community Services facility, any intoxicating liquors having an alcoholic content in excess of 20 percent by volume.
2. No person shall consume any alcoholic beverage at any time at the archery range, in facility parking lots, or a playground area of a City park.
3. Except as expressly provided below, no person shall consume any alcoholic beverage in any other indoor or outdoor area of a City Community Services facility between 9:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m.:
   1. On Lake Poway or within the high water line or concession balcony of Lake Poway during the established operating hours; or
   2. At the Poway Center for the Performing Arts; or
   3. Pursuant to permit issued by the City for a special public event.
4. No person shall consume any alcoholic beverage at any City Community Services facility during times that it has been rented, with or without remuneration to the City, to house a youth event. Youth events include rite of passage celebrations such as bar mitzvahs, bat mitzvahs, quinceaneras, “sweet 16” and other birthday parties, in addition to youth sports team games and parties, and all events involving social groups whose participants and/or members are primarily under the age of 21 years. (Ord. 769 § 3, 2014)

No, there are not. 

With limited exception, a Building Permit is required anytime you are constructing, altering, moving, adding to, repairing, or demolishing a structure within the City of Poway. A Building Permit is required for work within or on the exterior of any structure. 

Most maintenance and minor improvement projects require only a building permit. For information related to new construction, expansion of an existing structure, modifications to commercial properties, or moving your business, please refer to the Development Services page. 

A set of building plans is needed to provide all the information necessary so that the city can determine if the project complies with all city standards and building codes. A qualified individual, such as a drafter, building designer, architect or engineer, will need to prepare plans for a new residence, a home addition, or a home remodel project. Some commercial projects will require plans prepared by an architect or structural engineer. For projects such as retaining walls, patio covers and second-story decks, which are designed per city standards, a simple, legible and scaled plot plan is all that is needed. Please refer to the Building Permit Application Checklist for a list of requirements. 

All permit applications are received, processed and issued through the City of Poway Online Services.

Current fees for all building permits and plan review are listed in the City’s Master Fee Schedule (PDF) and Solar PV Fees Notice (PDF). Certain permits such as electrical or mechanical have a flat fee. Fees for construction of structures are based on valuation of construction type and use a valuation formula updated periodically from the San Diego Area Chapter of the International Code Council.

The actual length of time to process your permit can vary depending on the nature of your project. 

• Step 1: Building permit application submitted online (review the Building Permit Application Checklist to make sure you have everything you need). 
• Step 2: Plan review by Development Services. For 1st submittal, plan for up to 14 calendar days for building reviews and up to 28 calendar days for planning and engineering reviews. 
• Step 3: Once plans are reviewed, the applicant will be notified.
  • If there are no revisions, a permit will be issued. If revisions are required, continue to Step 4.
• Step 4: The applicant addresses the revisions requested in order to comply with all city standards and building codes.
• Step 5: The applicant resubmits online for plan review.
• Step 6: For subsequent submittals, the city will complete the review in up to 14 calendar days for building reviews and up to 28 calendar days for planning and engineering reviews.
• Step 7: Once plans are reviewed, the applicant will be notified.
  • If there are no revisions, a permit will be issued. If revisions are required, return to Step 4 until the applicant complies with all city standards and building codes.

After a Building Permit is obtained, you can schedule an inspection by calling 858-668-4646 and leaving a message on the automated line or schedule online through the portal. For inspection requests received before 4 p.m., the inspection will be scheduled for the next business day unless you request a different day in your message. Building inspections are performed Monday through Friday, including the Fridays that City Hall is closed.

The number of inspections varies by project but is generally 5 to 6 inspections for residential projects.

Standard plans, guidelines and Development Resources are available on the City’s website. This includes information on Solar, Pools, Retaining Walls, Re-roofing, and Remodels.

If you have questions about building permits, please contact the Building Division at 858-668-4644.

• One-story, detached accessory structures such as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar structures, with a floor area of 120 square feet or less, unless in the Very High Fire Severity Zone. These structures cannot be within the front or street side yard setback areas and the eaves cannot overhang adjacent properties
• Fences and non-retaining walls not more than 6 feet tall. Solid fences and walls over 4 feet in height cannot be located within the front yard setback area.
• Kitchen counters and cabinets.
• Retaining walls 3 feet in height or less measured from the top of the footing with no surcharge.
• Water tanks supported on grade that do not exceed 5,000 gallons.
• Painting, papering and similar finish work.
• Flatwork (concrete slabs) on private property does not generally need a Building Permit but may need a Right-of-Way Permit from the Engineering Division. Parking and driveways in the front yard area cannot constitute more than 50% of the front yard setback area.
• Prefabricated swimming pools that are less than 24-inches deep.
• Widow awnings supported by an exterior wall that do not project more than 54-inches from the exterior walls and do not require extra support.
• Decks not exceeding 200-square-feet that are not more than 30-incheas above grade at any point, are not attached to a dwelling and do not serve the exit door required by Section R311.4.

Yes.

Submit a concept plan showing the footprint of the proposed home and driveway on your property to the City’s online portal. City staff will provide a helpful pre-submittal checklist of application requirements for your project. For many projects, vegetation clearing, grading or fire management zones should be determined before a building permit is submitted.

All applications are received through the City’s online portal.

Every new home construction project is different because every homesite is different. Property Information is available on City GIS maps. While this information is intended to help you understand the process, there is no substitute for qualified professional architects, engineers and contractors who are responsible to help you navigate this complex process. View our guidelines on Who May Prepare Plans.

To streamline the clearing process in compliance with State requirements, the city has adopted a Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP).  Projects that clear vegetation require a Biological Study prepared by a qualified biologist to determine what mitigation is required. The amount of clearing you can conduct is limited if your property is within the HCP Mitigation Area boundary shown on the City GIS map. Projects that clear vegetation require an Administrative Clearing Permit.

Fire fuel management zones are required for all structures. Projects within the Very High Fire Severity Zone as shown on the City GIS map require a Fire Fuel Management Plan and Landscape Plan. Fuel management zones extend 100-feet from each structure. When siting your home, ensure you have access rights over the fuel management area. Alternatively, mitigation such as a fire wall may be needed.

Nearly all new homes require a grading permit prepared by a qualified Civil Engineer. Projects within RR-A, RR-B, RR-C or RS-1 Zone on the City GIS map, require preparation of a Slope Analysis by a licensed Engineer. The maximum allowable graded area is set based on the slope analysis.  Learn more about the Grading Permit process.

Some projects trigger the need for improvements, including utility extensions, street widening, sidewalks, and lighting. Submitting a concept plan allows staff to evaluate what is needed to serve your project. Please refer to the Improvement Plan Submittal Checklist for a list of requirements. Construction within public right of way such as streets and utility easements require a Right of Way Permit.

Projects within an Archeological Sensitive Area as shown on the City GIS map, require an Archeological Study prepared by a qualified archeologist. This study should be conducted early in the process as you may need to avoid impacting sensitive areas. Projects within sensitive areas require an Administrative Clearing Permit.

After grading, habitat clearing and fire fuel management plans are complete, the building permit application can be submitted online. Additional resources, including Building Permit Application Requirements, Building Review Timeline, Development Resources, and Frequently Asked Questions are available online. At the time of submission of a building permit application, project proponents are required to post a sign at the front of the property notifying area residents of the planned construction.

If you have questions about building a new home, home addition or accessory dwelling unit, please contact the Planning Division at 858-668-4610.

• Addendum to South Poway Specific Plan (PDF)
• Appendix A - Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Analysis (PDF)
• Appendix B - Poway Biological Technical Report (PDF)
• Appendix C - 2024 Focused Crotch Bumble Bee Survey Report (PDF)
• Appendix D - San Diego Biological Technical Report (PDF)
• Appendix E - San Diego Biological Restoration Plan (PDF)
• Appendix F - San Diego Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Program (PDF)
• Appendix G - Poway Cultural Resources Inventory (PDF)
• Appendix H - San Diego Cultural Resources Inventory (PDF)
• Appendix I - San Diego Geologic Reconnaissance Letter (PDF)
• Appendix J - Fire Hazard and Mitigation and Prevention Plan (PDF)
• Appendix K - Noise Analysis (PDF)

• Attachment L - Affordable Housing Agreement & Attachments (PDF)

Specific Plan

• Harmon Ranch Specific Plan - Adopted 4.2.2024

Final EIR

• Final EIR Harmon Ranch Specific Plan Project
• Appendix A - NOP and Comments
• Appendix B - AQ-GHG Tech Report
• Appendix C - BTR
• Appendix D - Arborist Report
• Appendix E - Built Environment-Historic Report
• Appendix F - Cultural Letter Report
• Appendix G - Geotechnical Report
• Appendix H - Phase I and II ESA
• Appendix I - Drainage Report
• Appendix J - SWQMP
• Appendix K - Noise Report
• Appendix L - Draft LTA
• Appendix M - Draft TIS
• Appendix N - Water Service Analysis
• Appendix O - Sewer Service Analysis
• Appendix P - Fire Response
• Appendix Q - Harmon Ranch Specific Plan
• Appendix R - Harmon Ranch Evacuation Plan_Poway
• Appendix S - Harmon Ranch RTCs

Meetings and Notice of Preparation

• Neighborhood Meeting regarding the Harmon Ranch Project – November 7, 2023
• Harmon Ranch Specific Plan - Notice of Preparation (NOP)
• Harmon Ranch Specific Plan - Notice of Preparation Cover
• Harmon Ranch Scoping Meeting Presentation - February 16, 2023

Public Review Draft EIR

• Draft EIR
• Appendix A - Notice of Preparation and Comments
• Appendix B - Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Emissions Analysis
• Appendix C - Biological Resources Technical Report
• Appendix D - Arborist Report
• Appendix E - Built Environment Inventory Report
• Appendix F - Cultural Resource Inventory Report
• Appendix G - Geotechnical Investigation
• Appendix H - Phase I & Phase II Environmental Site Assessment
• Appendix I - Preliminary Drainage Study
• Appendix J - Stormwater Quality Management Plan
• Appendix K - Noise Technical Report
• Appendix L - Local Transportation Assessment
• Appendix M - Transportation Impact Study
• Appendix N - Water Service Analysis
• Appendix O - Sewer Service Analysis
• Appendix P - Fire Response Technical Memorandum
• Appendix Q - Harmon Ranch Specific Plan
• Appendix R - Evacuation Plan

Notice of Availability

• Harmon Ranch Notice of Availability

A grading permit is required in advance of grading for all projects including: 1) Excavations 2-feet or greater with slopes steeper than 2:1, 2) Moving 50 cubic yards or more, 3) changing drainage patterns, and 4) within open space or easement areas. For minor projects on developed land meeting certain conditions there are grading permit exceptions [link to FAQ]. Retaining walls, pools and patio covers require Building Permits. 

You will need to hire a qualified professional engineer to prepare a grading plan for your project.  Please refer to the Grading Submittal Checklist for a list of requirements. Projects that clear vegetation or are within an archeological sensitive area as shown the City GIS map will require an Administrative Clearing Permit.

All applications are received through the City’s online portal. The cost of the plan review is based on the Master Fee Schedule.

The first plan review is typically completed in 4-weeks with subsequent reviews ranging from 2-weeks to 4-weeks.  The quality of the plan submittal and your engineer’s responsiveness to comments will determine how quickly a grading plan can be approved. Generally, three review cycles are required.

Once grading plans are approved, securities will need to be posted and inspection fees paid as shown on Master Fee Schedule. 

Provide the print copies then schedule preconstruction meeting.

Projects are required to comply with the City Municipal Code, City Design Standards, applicable Specific Plans, and Storm Water Quality Management Plan requirements.  Links to the reference documents, title block templates, and forms are available on the Land Development Engineering page.

If you have questions about grading permits, please contact Land Development Engineering Division at 858-668-4655.

On a developed parcel of land, excavation or fill for the purposes of minor landscaping improvements or recreational purposes may be completed without a permit under these conditions:

1. 10 feet away from any structure and three feet from any property line, unless entirely contained by a permitted retaining wall; and
2. Does not exceed 250 cubic yards of total excavation and fill; and
3. Does not exceed three vertical feet in depth; and
4. Does not create a cut or fill slope greater than five feet in height nor a slope steeper than three horizontal to one vertical (3:1); and
5. Does not divert, concentrate or otherwise alter surface or subsurface drainage as it leaves or enters adjacent properties; and
6. Outside of any open space, utility, access or other easement area and not in an area where any structure is planned, including patios, swimming pools and accessory structures.

The taste of drinking water is affected by its mineral content as well as the presence of chlorine, which is used to protect against potential bacterial contamination. Sometimes plumbing can cause a metallic flavor, especially if the water has been sitting in pipes for many hours. Taste, however, does not indicate a higher or lower degree of water quality.

Musty or earthy odors can be caused by harmless algae in the water, especially during the hot summer months. Even after chlorine has been added to disinfect the water, these odors may persist. Also, a common mistake many make is to confuse odors from their sink drain with the smell of their tap water. The technical name for the chemicals produced by most odor-causing algae is 2-methylisoborneol {MIB) and geosmin. However, even at extremely low levels, such as 5 parts per trillion, highly sensitive people can still taste or smell them. When a large algae bloom occurs, more people detect an issue. Algae-related water quality issues usually clear up in a few days.

Solvent-like odors are often associated with work activities around the home. Recent work on irrigation systems, for instance, can lead to smells related to PVC glue. These odors can be fed back into the home as internal water use draws small amounts of water out of the irrigation system and into the interior plumbing. Solvent odors due to irrigation work are generally short-lived and can be removed by flushing water through the home's faucets.

When experiencing a rotten egg type odor at the tap, the first step is to attempt to isolate the source of the odor. First, check to see if the odor is present at all taps or just one. If the odor is present at only one tap, the source of the odor is most likely the drain in that sink, shower or bathtub. All the plumbing fixtures in your home receive water from the same source. Therefore, if the water is the source of the odor, it would be present at all the taps. Food particles, hair and other items tend to build up in drains forming bacterial gases and causing a 'rotten egg' odor. To remove the odor from drain traps (only for homes not on septic systems), pour½ cup of household (unscented) bleach into the drain. Most bathroom sinks have an overflow drain. Cleaning this area can be accomplished by filling the sink with a diluted bleach solution to the point of the solution flowing into the overflow.

If you only smell the odor when you run the hot water, the problem is likely with your water heater. If the anode rod in the water heater goes bad, it can introduce a sulfur smell into the hot water supply inside your home. Chemicals in the water can react to the anode, resulting in a sulfur smell indoors. If you have a water softener, you're at an increased risk of the anode having a chemical reaction to other elements in the water. Consult a licensed plumber for a professional recommendation.

Poway water is hard water, which means it is high in mineral content and can cause white spots on glassware or silverware in your dishwasher and buildup on showerheads. These spots are mainly calcium deposits and are not harmful to health. The mineral content of water is described in grains of hardness. Water with 10 or more grains of hardness is considered hard. A water's "hardness" is a measure of the amount of certain minerals that are dissolved in the water, such as calcium. Depending on varying sources and system flows, the hardness of the City's water averages 15.8 grains per gallon {gpg).

If your water appears dirty or muddy, it may be due to maintenance within the city distribution system. Sand or sediment in the water lines is commonly caused by routine flushing of the distribution system through the fire hydrants. This is a routine preventive maintenance activity conducted regularly by the City of Poway Public Works Utilities Team. Flushing the water system on a routine basis removes sediment from lines and keeps the entire distribution system refreshed. Crews post signs in the areas in which they are working to help make customers aware of the preventive maintenance activity. As a result of the flushing procedure, residents in the immediate vicinity of the work may experience temporary discoloration of their water. This discoloration consists primarily of harmless silt and precipitates and does not affect the safety of the water. If you experience discoloration in your water after crews have been flushing in your neighborhood, clear the pipes in your own home by running all water faucets for a minute or two. If a few minutes of internal flushing does not seem to improve the water clarity, please call us at (858) 668-4751.

The most common cause of black particles in tap water is the disintegration of rubber materials used in plumbing fixtures. These particles float and often adhere to sinks and bathtubs and can appear sooty or greasy. Rubber gaskets and hoses connected to water heaters and washing machines can disintegrate over time and some pieces can collect in tubs, toilet tanks, faucets and other locations. Homeowners should make sure they select plumbing components that are compatible with the drinking water supply.

Cloudy or milky (white) water is usually caused by an abundance of small air bubbles in the water. These harmless bubbles enter the water when air is drawn into the water distribution system. The air bubbles in a freshly filled glass of cold water will usually clear after a few minutes.

The Lead and Copper Rule is a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency mandated rule that became effective on December 7, 1992. This rule requires treatment when lead and/or copper in drinking water exceeds certain levels.

Lead enters drinking water mainly from the corrosion of lead containing household plumbing. Since lead and copper contamination generally occur after water has left the public distribution system, the best way to check if your water is contaminated is to test water from a household faucet. Monitoring by the City is required every three years, where a minimum of 30 homes are sampled and the certified results are sent to the state.

Lead and copper have not been a problem in the Poway distribution system, based on past monitoring results.

The hot water heater is often the cause of several common water quality complaints. Unmaintained hot water heaters can produce water that is brown, black, has unidentifiable particles, and/or has a musty or rotten egg odor. Consult a licensed insured plumber for professional recommendations.

Water treatment devices such as charcoal filters, softeners, and reverse osmosis systems are intended to improve water quality. However, without proper preventative maintenance, a water treatment device can degrade the quality of your water. Unmaintained devices can create odor, taste, color, and even bacteriological problems in household water systems. It is critical that periodic maintenance is performed per manufacturer's recommendations. If the problem persists with the water, please call us at 858-668-4751.