The Public Works Department is committed to providing the highest quality services in the most cost effective manner, while ensuring that the maintenance, construction, and operations of the public facilities and programs under its care are adequate, safe, and serviceable to the satisfaction of its customers.
DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW
The Public Works Department provides engineering services and capital planning to ensure a high quality of public infrastructure and is responsible for rehabilitating and restoring the City’s infrastructure (i.e. facilities, streets, water pipelines, sewer system), providing safe and reliable water delivery, improving the flow of traffic, maintaining parkway streets and landscape, cleaning of City streets, overseeing transportation programs, managing the City’s sanitary sewer system, and coordinating refuse and recycling programs.
Public Works Now has an Online Permit Counter!
Available to all residents through a Citizens Access Portal. Residents will have the ability to apply for permits online for Construction, Non-Construction, and Service Requests.
CLEAN CALIFORNIA LOCAL GRANT PROGRAM
Several locations and activities have been identified as possible options for fund use. Please take a few minutes to complete a survey to let us know which improvement activities you would most like to see the funds used for.
Varias ubicaciones y actividades han sido identificadas como posible opciones en las que se pueden usar los fondos. Por favor tome unos minutos para completar una encuesta para dejarnos saber que mejorías le gustaría ver que se hagan con los fundos.
SAFE AND ACTIVE STREETS IMPROVEMENT PLAN
PLAN DE IMPLEMENTACIÓN DE CALLES SEGURAS Y ACTIVAS
As part of this process, a draft of the plan is available to the public for comments through the end of January 2022. Public comments may be sent to PublicWorks@sfcity.org or call (818) 898-1222.
The City and its consultant team hosted a one-hour virtual workshop on January 20, 2022, from 6 pm to 7pm, to discuss the project and provide the community more opportunity to ask questions and provide feedback.
Thank you to those who participated in our Walking and Bicycling Audits! We are no longer holding audits, but if you would like to do your own walking or bicycling audit, please feel free to download our guide and send us your comments.
English Guide (PDF) Spanish Guide (PDF)
¡Gracias a aquellos que participaron en nuestras auditorías para caminar y andar en bicicleta! Ya no estamos llevando a cabo auditorías, pero si desea hacer su propia evaluación de caminar o andar en bicicleta, por favor descargue nuestra guía y envíenos sus comentarios.
Guía en inglés (PDF) Guía en español (PDF)
What is the San Fernando Safe and Active Streets Implementation Plan?
The City of San Fernando was awarded a Caltrans Sustainable Communities Planning Grant to develop an Implementation Plan that will build on the Safe and Active Streets Plan that was developed in 2016-17. The Implementation Plan will help the City identify priority projects to make the streets safer and more active, and that can be implemented in the short term through maintenance and capital improvement projects, and grants from the state Active Transportation Program.
What are the goals of the Implementation Plan?
- Build on the 2017 Safe and Active Streets Plan
- Engage community members to identify priorities
- Prioritize transportation projects
- Develop conceptual plans and cost estimates
- Identify short-term and long term projects
What is the timeline for the Implementation Plan?
January–June 2021
- Exisiting Condition analysis
- Community Outreach and Engagement Activities
July–September 2021
- Prioritize projects
- Develop detailed design concepts
- Present Safe and Active Streets Implementation Plan
How can I get involved?
Attend walking and biking audits and public plan events, share your thoughts online. Signup for updates on the project and to learn about upcoming events.
ACERCA DEL PROYECTO¿Qué es el Plan de Implementación de Calles Seguras y Activas de San Fernando?
La Ciudad de San Fernando recibió una subvención para la planificación de comunidades sustentables de Caltrans para preparar un Plan de Implementación basado en el Plan de Calles Seguras y Activas que se preparó en el 2016-17. El Plan de Implementación ayudará a la ciudad a identificar proyectos prioritarios para crear calles más seguras y activas a corto plazo a través de proyectos de mantenimiento, inversiones del programa para mejoras de la ciudad, y subvenciones del programa estatal para transporte activo.
¿Cuáles son los objetivos del Plan de Implementación?
- Implementar el Plan de Calles Seguras y Activas 2017
- Involucrar a los miembros de la comunidad para identificar prioridades
- Priorizar proyectos de transporte
- Preparar planes conceptuales y estimaciones de costos
- Identificar proyectos a corto y largo plazo
¿Cuándo se va a preparar el Plan de Implementación?
Enero-Junio 2021
- Análisis de condiciones actuales
- Actividades de divulgación y participación de la comunidad
Julio-Septiembre 2021
- Priorizar proyectos
- Preparar conceptos detallados de diseño
- Presentar el Plan de Implementación de Calles Seguras y Activas
¿Cómo puedo participar?
Asistiendo a evaluaciones guiadas de caminar y andar en bicicleta, y a los eventos públicos. Compartiendo sus ideas en línea. Regístrandose para recibir actualizaciones sobre el proyecto y para obtener más información sobre próximos eventos.
CONTACT INFORMATION
CITY HALL | Public Works Department
117 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340
(818) 898-1222 | PublicWorks@sfcity.org
SAN FERNANDO REGIONAL PARK INFILTRATION PROJECT
The City is implementing the San Fernando Regional Park Infiltration Project (Project) in alignment with the requirements set forth by the Los Angeles County Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permit and Upper Los Angeles River Enhanced Watershed Management Program (EWMP). The Project will provide multiple benefits while assisting the City in meeting regulatory requirements.CLICK HERE for more information
CONTACT INFORMATION
Kenneth Jones, Management Analyst
CITY HALL | Public Works Department
117 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340
(818) 898-1240 | KJones@sfcity.orgHERO PROGRAM
The Hero Program, the largest energy efficient financing program in the nation, is now available to property owners in San Fernando. The HERO Program empowers local property owners to make their homes more energy efficient by providing them with low-cost, tax deductible financing for a range of home improvement projects.Among the most popular upgrades that are eligible under this program, are whole-home heating and cooling (HVAC), solar power installations, energy-saving windows, roofing and insulation, among other types of energy and water efficient improvements. Property owners are able to borrow up to 15% of their property’s value and repay the loan over a fixed time period through an assessment on their property tax bill.
The HERO Program is different from traditional consumer financing because approvals are based primarily on the amount of equity a homeowner has in their home. All financing and project approvals are processed through HERO Program staff, and not through the City of San Fernando. Altogether, 228 communities participate in the HERO Program and more than $100 Million in energy efficiency upgrades have been approved.
For more information about the program, eligibility requirements, and financing details, please visit the HERO Program website or contact their representatives.
- CITY CONTACT INFORMATION
CITY HALL | Public Works Department
117 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340
(818) 898-1222 | PublicWorks@sfcity.org
DEPARTMENT OPERATIONS
Public Works Operations is responsible for:- Rehabilitating and Restoring the City’s Infrastructure (i.e., facilities, streets, water pipelines, sewer system)
- Providing Safe and Reliable Water Delivery
- Improving the Flow of Traffic
- Maintaining Parkway Trees
- Cleaning of City Streets
- Overseeing Transportation Programs
- Maintaining the City’s Fleet
- Maintaining Lighting and Traffic Signals
- Managing the City’s Sanitary Sewer System
- Coordinating Refuse and Recycling ProgramsCONTACT INFORMATION
OPERATIONS CENTER | Public Works Department
120 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340
(818) 898-1293 | PWDispatch@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7 am to 4:30 pm
Friday | 7 am to 3:30 pm
FLEET & EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE
The Fleet and Equipment Maintenance Division is responsible for:- 28 Police Vehicles
- 33 Mid-duty Trucks
- 9 Heavy-duty Pieces of Equipment
- 25 Smaller, Miscellaneous Equipment
- 2 Emergency Generators
The primary goal of the Mechanical Maintenance Division is the Preventive Maintenance Program which helps to lower costs by identifying smaller repairs before they become larger and expensive repairs.
Other responsibilities include record keeping for the State Biennial Inspection of Terminals (BIT) Program, Air Quality Management District (AQMD) Annual Survey of Fleets-Rule 1190, Annual SMOG certification and all records of hazardous materials such as waste oil, used solvents, clarifier, used batteries, and maintaining copies of all manifests.
The Division keeps a large inventory for these various types of vehicles and equipment ranging from tires, oils, filters, brakes, hoses, lights, and cleaning supplies. They also keep monthly repair records for each vehicle/equipment by account number and vehicle number to verify proper accounting and a quarterly garage report to stay within budget.
CONTACT INFORMATION
OPERATIONS CENTER | Public Works Department
120 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340
(818) 898-1293 | PWDispatch@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7 am to 4:30 pm
Friday | 7 am to 3:30 pm
GRAFFITI ABATEMENT
The Community Preservation Division is responsible for implementing the City’s Graffiti Abatement Program and ensuring that graffiti is removed from all areas in the public right-of-way, including sidewalks, streets, telephone/light poles, and utility boxes. The Division’s graffiti abatement team works to ensure that all graffiti is removed from private and public property within 72 hours of the initial report.Division staff will inspect the location of the graffiti, and will either remove the graffiti (as long as it falls under the City Guidelines) or notify property owners if they are unable to remove.
Graffiti may be reported using these methods:
CALL
GRAFFITI HOTLINE
(818) 898-7315
24-Hours A DayVISIT
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
(818) 898-1222REGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
EMAIL
SFGraffiti@sfcity.org
24-Hours A DayIf you observe someone in the process of tagging, you can contact the San Fernando Police Department’s non-emergency line (818) 898-1267 (dial “0” to immediately reach a dispatcher) to report taggers in the act, not to report the graffiti itself.Do not try to approach or apprehend the person; provide the dispatcher with as much information as possible, description of the person or persons involved, a vehicle license plate if possible, and your exact location.
Call the San Fernando Police Department’s non-emergency line (818) 898-1267 (dial “0” to immediately reach a dispatcher). This allows police to record the criminal activity, obtain the direction of travel of the person leaving, get their accurate description, and possibly develop suspects in this or other similar cases.Call our graffiti hotline at (818) 898-7315. Try to provide as much information as possible, such as car license plate, description of the person or persons involved, where they live (if it is known), and a description of the person’s tag or moniker, if that is known. Callers may remain anonymous.Parents of minors who are caught defacing property are responsible for paying the fees. In addition to administrative fees, taggers are subject to criminal prosecution which could include fines and or jail.Once graffiti or tagging is observed by City staff, or called in by residents, property owners are notified of the situation by the Public Works Department. If the graffiti is on public property, City Crews will remove the graffiti within 72 hours. If on private property, the property owner has 72 hours to remove the graffiti. If after 72 hours the property owner has not complied with the City Ordinance, a citation will be issued.You can attend one of the many ongoing Neighborhood Watch meetings for information on how you can be involved.To learn about a Neighborhood Watch meeting near you or to start a new one, visit the San Fernando Police Department’s webpage: SFCITY.ORG/SFPolice/#Neighborhood-Business-Watch.
Are you a parent? Do you know where your kids are and what they are doing?Be aware of your kid’s activities, particularly in the early morning hours. Be aware if your child begins using tagging monikers or nicknames. Notice if they are writing graffiti type lettering on walls, clothing or notebooks. If your kids are minors and are caught tagging, or in possession of tagging tools, you will be responsible for any citation issued, as well as any corrective action to have the property cleaned up.
Take concern in your children’s lives, it will make a difference in yours!
PARKS & FACILITIES
The Facilities Maintenance Division (FMD) is responsible for the maintenance of:- City Hall
- City Yard
- Police Facility
- Park Buildings and Grounds
- Brand Landscape Median
- Maclay Median
- Chamber Building
- Water Reservoirs and Pump Stations
- Lopez Adobe Historical House
- Bike Trail Landscape Maintenance
- Gateway Landscape Maintenance
- Civic Center Landscape Maintenance
This Division, through short- and long-term maintenance programs, and thorough better management practices ensures that the large investment in City facilities will be protected. FMD staff effectively utilizes the Court Referral Community Service Program enabling the Division to extend its resources. This program, additionally, contributes substantially in our efforts to complete projects and maintain a higher level of service to patrons.
CONTACT INFORMATION
OPERATIONS CENTER | Public Works Department
120 Macneil St, San Fernando, CA 91340
Rodrigo Mora, Public Works Operations Manager
(818) 898-1293 | RMora@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7 am to 4:30 pm
Friday | 7 am to 3:30 pm
NPDES - NATIONAL POLLUTION DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM - PREVENTING WATER POLLUTION
Water pollution degrades surface waters making them unsafe for drinking, fishing, swimming, and other activities. As authorized by the Clean Water Act, the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit program controls water pollution by regulating point sources that discharge pollutants into waters of the United States. Point sources are discrete conveyances such as pipes or man-made ditches. Individual homes that are connected to a municipal system, use a septic system, or do not have a surface discharge do not need an NPDES permit; however, industrial, municipal, and other facilities must obtain permits if their discharges go directly to surface waters.Preventing water pollution is a responsibility that requires assistance the entire community. By implementing simple steps in regular everyday activities, water pollution can be reduced significantly.
MAKING WATER QUALITY A TOP PRIORITYThe City of San Fernando strives to be an environmental steward by making water quality a top priority. The City’s storm drain system is designed to prevent flooding and protect residents, but it needs protection itself. Unlike the sanitary sewer system that collects and treats water from sinks and toilets, the water that enters the storm drain system drains directly to local water bodies and eventually into the Pacific Ocean without being treated. Therefore, any pollutants, such as bacteria and metals, that make their way into our storm drain system will eventually end up in our creeks and ocean, which can be harmful to the environment and human health.
Fortunately, there are some simple ways that you can help reduce stormwater pollution: dispose of trash and pet waste in a trash receptacle, fix leaks on vehicles, and wash your vehicle at a car wash, which is designed to direct wash water to the sanitary sewer. Following these simple practices can help reduce pollution and improve water quality for the environment and residents of our City.
We thank you for helping make our City an exemplary model of environmental stewardship. To learn more about how to protect our local waterways, please contact Management Analyst Kenneth Jones at (818) 898-1240 or KJones@sfcity.org.
HACIENDO LA CALIDAD DEL AGUA LA MÁXIMA PRIORIDADLa Ciudad de San Fernando se esfuerza por ser un administrador ambiental al hacer de la calidad del agua una prioridad máxima. El sistema de drenaje pluvial de la ciudad está diseñado para evitar inundaciones y protejer los residents, pero el sistema necesita proteccion en sí mismo. A diferencia del sistema de alcantarillado sanitario que recolecta y trata el agua de los lavabos e inodoros, el agua que ingresa al sistema de drenaje pluvial drena directamente a los cuerpos de agua locales y eventualmente al Océano Pacífico sin ser tratada. Por lo tanto, cualquier contaminante como bacterias y metales que lleguen a nuestro sistema de drenaje pluvial eventualmente terminará en nuestros arroyos y océanos, lo que puede ser dañino para el medio ambiente y la salud humana.
Afortunadamente, hay lagunas maneras simples en las que puede ayudar a reducir la contaminación de las aguas pluviales: deseche la basura y los desechos de mascotas en un recipiente para basura, arregle las fugas de los vehículos y lave su vehículo en un lavadero de autos, que está diseñado para dirigir el agua de lavado al drenaje sanitario. Sequir estas práctices simples puede ayudar a reducer la contaminación y mejorar la calidad del agua para el medio ambiente y los residents de nuestra ciudad.
Le agradecemos por ayudar a hacer de nuestra ciudad un modelo ejemplar de administración ambiental. Para obtener más información sobre cómo proteger nuestras vías fluviales locales, favor de comunicarse con el Analista de Administración Kenneth Jones al (818) 898-1240 o KJones@sfcity.org.
Stormwater Management
The City of San Fernando believes part of maintaining a beautiful city is through the protection of our waterways. San Fernando is located in the Upper Los Angeles River Watershed. A watershed is the total land area that drains rainfall and runoff, including pollutants, to local storm drains, creeks, and the Pacific Ocean without being treated. It is important keep our watersheds clean so we can have beautiful, healthy, and safe rivers and beaches.
What is stormwater?
Stormwater is runoff from rainfall that drains through natural and urban areas. Stormwater flows into stormdrains, through creeks, and eventually to the ocean and can pick up urban pollutants along the way. The city has a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit in which the city must take many measures to prevent stormwater pollution. The permit contains multiple programs that are implemented by the city: public outreach, illicit discharge and illicit connection elimination, development planning, development construction, and public agency activities. With the implementation of these programs, the city can achieve water quality standards as enforced by the Regional Water Quality Board – Los Angeles.
And you can help!
FOR RESIDENTS:
There are many household pollutants to be aware of and ways you can prevent stormwater pollution:
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Do not dump anything into the streets, gutter, or stormdrain inlets.
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Household fertilizers, pesticides, and other hazardous wastes are toxic for the environment. Always follow the directions on the container, avoid application before rain, and avoid runoff. Try to use environmentally friendly fertilizers and pesticides if possible.
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Avoid washing off driveways, sidewalks, and walkways.
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Pet waste contains bacteria. Always pick up after your pet and dispose of waste in a nearby trash can.
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Prevent unnecessary runoff by fixing sprinkler heads or installing drip irrigation.
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Do not litter and always place trash, including cigarette butts, in a proper waste receptacle.
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Do not discharge pool water to the storm drain.
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Wash your car at a car wash or where wash water will drain to a grassy or landscaped area. Car washes collect all runoff and prevent soaps from entering the storm drain system.
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Keep an eye out for a Household Hazardous Waste collection event in your neighborhood.
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Take Action! Volunteer at a local creek clean-up. Consider California Coastal Cleanup Day or join a Friends of the LA River Cleanup event.
FOR BUSINESSES:
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Trash Maintenance: Always keep trash receptacle lids closed and area clean of trash and pollutants. Never put liquid waste into dumpsters. Never wash down trash enclosures; instead, sweep the area to keep it clean.
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Oil and Grease: Restaurants must maintain grease traps and interceptors to prevent spills and leaks. Never pour grease or oil into the storm drain.
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Cleaners and chemicals: Store where they are protected from rainfall and runoff. Use secondary containment to prevent accidental leaks from entering the storm drain
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Surface cleaning: Always sweep up spills and debris in parking lots, sidewalks, and other surfaces. If a liquid spill occurs, use an absorbant, such as kitty litter, to clean. Never wash down surfaces.
To report illegal dumping or discharges, please call the City of San Fernando at 818-898-1200 or the county-wide hotline at 1-888-CLEANLA.
Helpful Links
CONTACT INFORMATION
OPERATIONS CENTER | Public Works Department
120 Macneil St, San Fernando, CA 91340
Ramiro Arias, Public Works Field Supervisor I
(818) 898-1293 | RArias@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7 am to 4:30 pm
Friday | 7 am to 3:30 pm -
STREET LIGHTING
The Street Lighting Division maintains and repairs approximately 427 City-owned street lights and circuits and has oversight of the 1,200 street lights within the City that are owned/maintained by Southern California Edison. The City budget includes funds payable to Southern California Edison for electrical power for all street lighting. A portion of these costs are supported through a voter approved Landscape and Lighting Act Assessment.CONTACT INFORMATION
OPERATIONS CENTER | Public Works Department
120 Macneil St, San Fernando, CA 91340
(818) 898-1293 | PWDispatch@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7 am to 4:30 pm
Friday | 7 am to 3:30 pmSTREET MAINTENANCE & OPERATIONS
The Street Maintenance Division is responsible for the repair and maintenance of:- Over 50 miles of public streets and alleys in the City;
- 80 miles of City sidewalks; and
- 10 miles of storm drains.
The duties of this division include administering major projects, such as roadway reconstruction and resurfacing, inspection of utility trenches, and sidewalk replacements. The crews are responsible for filling potholes and making temporary and permanent repairs to sidewalks.
The duties of this division, from time to time, also include emergency clean-up from traffic accidents, spilled loads, and other street emergencies. They provide the setting up and removal of traffic control barricades and temporary parking restrictions for parades, festivals, circuses, and movie filming.
The Division is also responsible for administration of the street sweeping contract with Athens Services, Inc., maintenance of the City’s street cleaning equipment, and collection of litter and debris from all City streets and alley ways. Street Sweeping provides two primary benefits to the City. The more obvious benefit is the collection and removal of paper, leaves, and other visual debris that collect in the gutters. This debris can block storm water facilities, causing localized flooding during heavy rains. An equally important but less visible benefit is the removal of metal particles and other hazardous waste products left by passing vehicles. Although they are virtually invisible, these particles can be extremely harmful to fish and other wildlife if they reach our creeks, rivers, beaches, and bays. Street Sweeping is an effective method of removing both the large and microscopic pollutants that collect on City streets.
CONTACT INFORMATION
OPERATIONS CENTER | Public Works Department
120 Macneil St, San Fernando, CA 91340
(818) 898-1293 | PWDispatch@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7 am to 4:30 pm
Friday | 7 am to 3:30 pmSTREET & TREES MAINTENANCE
The Street and Trees Division provides a limited program of tree trimming and general maintenance of all of the City’s trees. In an effort to preserve the City’s aging trees, the Division performs wind trimming and light trimming on branches that are reachable from the ground. The City’s beautiful older trees have required an increased amount of attention and the improved tree maintenance program has helped prolong their expectancy. The City coordinates a tree maintenance program that is responsible for enforcing City policies and Municipal Codes relating to the care and maintenance of City trees.The Division is responsible for the maintenance and care of trees located within the public right-of-way and on public property. This includes trimming, planting, pruning roots, removing trees, inspecting trees, and specializing in tree activities. The Division responds to fallen limbs and hazardous tree situations, which occur with more frequency during storms.
CONTACT INFORMATION
OPERATIONS CENTER | Public Works Department
120 Macneil St, San Fernando, CA 91340
(818) 898-1293 | PWDispatch@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7 am to 4:30 pm
Friday | 7 am to 3:30 pmENGINEERING
- The design, supervision, and inspection of all street, sidewalk, and bike path construction;
- All City surveying and mapping operations include maintenance of the City’s street and utility records;
- Management of the storm water and sewers including the design, operation and maintenance of sanitary sewers and storm sewer systems;
- The review of land use changes for Public Works feasibility;
- The research and development services supporting the Solid Waste Management Program; and
- The preparation of various studies relating to Public Works.CONTACT INFORMATION
CITY HALL | Public Works Department
117 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340
(818) 898-1222 | PublicWorks@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7:30 am to 5:30 pm
Friday | 8 am to 5 pm
TRAFFIC CALMING
What are Speed Humps?
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Speed Humps are asphalt mounds placed on roadways for the purpose of slowing traffic.
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Speed humps are different than speed bumps, which are commonly seen in parking lots or on private streets.
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Speed Humps span the full width of the street, typically 36 to 40 feet. The City of San Fernando speed hump standard is 12 feet measured longitudinally and three inches high. Speed Humps are typically placed 300 to 600 feet apart and are installed on residential streets experiencing speeding problems.
What are Speed Tables?
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Speed Tables are longer and sometimes appear, to be more flat on the surface, speed humps are used primarily for the purpose of slowing traffic.
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Speed Tables are more gently sloped than Speed Humps, provide slightly higher design speeds than Speed Humps, and are used at locations where low speeds are desired but a somewhat smooth ride is needed for larger vehicles since they long enough for the entire wheelbase of a passenger car to rest on the top section.
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Speed Tables span the full width of the street, typically 36 to 40 feet. The City of San Fernando speed table standard is 22 feet measured longitudinally and three inches high. Speed Humps are typically placed 300 to 600 feet apart and are installed on residential collector streets experiencing speeding problems.
Why are Speed Humps/Speed Tables desirable?
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Speed Humps/Speed Tables can help control speeding on local neighborhood streets: They can reduce average speeds by as much as seven mph. Unlike traditional police enforcement, Speed Humps provide continuous service. They may also help discourage cut-through traffic by diverting it elsewhere.
Applications
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Residential Streets
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Not typically used on major roads, bus routes, or primary emergency response routes
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Mid-block placement, not at an intersection
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Not on grades greater than eight percent
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Work well with curb extensions
Design/Installation Issues
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Typically 12 to 14 feet in length; other lengths (10, 22, and 30 feet) reported in practice in U.S.
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Speed hump shapes include parabolic, circular, and sinusoidal
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Hump heights range between three and four inches with trend toward 3 – 3 ½ inches maximum
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Difficult to construct precisely; may need to specify a construction tolerance (e.g. ± 1/8 inch) on height
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Often have signage (advance warning sign before first hump in series and warning sign or object marker at hump)
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Typically have pavement marking (zigzag, shark’s tooth, chevron, zebra)
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Taper edge near curb to allow gap for drainage
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Some have speed advisories
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Bicyclists prefer that it not cover or cross a bike lane
Potential Impacts
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No effect on non-emergency access
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Speeds determined by height and spacing; speeds between humps have been observed to be reduced between 20 and 25 percent on average
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Most communities limit height to 3-3½ inches, partly because of harsh ride over 4-inch high humps
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Possible increase in traffic noise from braking and acceleration of vehicles, particularly buses and trucks
Emergency Response Issues
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Concern over jarring of emergency rescue vehicles
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Approximate delay of between three and five seconds per hump for fire trucks and up to 10 seconds for ambulance transporting patients
Typical Cost
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Approximately $2,500 (2010 estimate)
Are there any drawbacks to Speed Humps?
Some of the disadvantages include:
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Residents living near Speed Humps must tolerate increased noise levels as vehicles traverse Speed Humps
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Traffic may be diverted to previously quiet parallel streets in the neighborhood
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Emergency service response time suffers
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Speed Humps require signing and striping, which some residents consider unattractive
How can I get a Speed Hump on my street?
Residents have several ways to request for consideration for Speed Humps/Speed Tables on their street. Here’s the process:
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A resident may request the City to consider a particular street for Speed Hump or Speed Table installation by attending a Transportation and Safety Commission meeting and making a request. Meetings are held on the third Wednesday of each month at City Hall (Council Chambers) located at 117 Macneil Street, by contacting the Public Work Department at (818) 898-1222.
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The concerned resident may be asked to circulate a petition in the neighborhood which is being considered. The petition will be supplied by the City staff. The number of persons signing the petition in favor of the installation of Speed Humps or Speed Tables must represent at least 2/3 (67%) of the total number of homes along the impacted residential street. Residents submit a signed petition back to the City. City staff will then verify the petition results. If a petition in favor of Speed Humps or tables is received, a speed survey will be conducted to support the residents concerns of excessive speeding. Excessive speeding is defined in the Citywide Traffic Calming Study on file in the City Engineer’s office.
Once determined that excessive speeds are occurring, and the adopted Speed Hump or Speed Table policy is met, residents and staff will work together to determine appropriate locations for proposed installations. -
If, at a future time, residents want to remove Speed Hump, they must submit a petition with at least 51% approval of the original affected neighborhood area. If approved, residents must pay to remove the humps.
CONTACT INFORMATION
CITY HALL | Public Works Department
117 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340
(818) 898-1222 | PublicWorks@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7:30 am to 5:30 pm
Friday | 8 am to 5 pmNON-CONSTRUCTION PERMITS
Non-Construction Permits are issued for the use of public right-of-way (ROW) for the following reasons:- Placing a dumpster on the street (Dumpster must be obtained by Republic Services or current refuse service provider)
- Placing moving pods on the street
- Work that encroaches onto the ROW such as sandblasting, painting, modifying of the façade of a building, closing access to pedestrian for work on the sidewalk*
- Business Sign installation
- Annual Permit for an the placement of an “A” Frame on the sidewalk*
- Building Window Washing requiring uplift or other machinery within ROW
- Trimming Landscape around building requiring uplift or other machinery within ROW
- Annual Permit for placing furniture, tables and chairs for dining purposes within ROW
- Placing tents with tables for the purpose of promoting business within ROW
- Pedestrian scaffolding within ROW
- Traffic Counters
- Filming or red carpet events within ROW
- Temporary Valet Parking Zones within ROW
- House Moving/Wide Load Permit*
- Draining of a swimming pool
- Use of parking stalls for work or special events
- Horse carriage
- Overnight parking of construction vehicles?
- Street work requiring traffic delineation and/or lane closures*+
- Street closure*+
*Requires liability insurance adding the City of San Fernando as additionally insured.
+Requires a Traffic Control Plan stamped by a Registered Traffic Engineer. Allow five (5) days for review of the plan.
CONTACT INFORMATION
CITY HALL | Public Works Department
117 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340
(818) 898-1222 | PublicWorks@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7:30 am to 5:30 pm
Friday | 8 am to 5 pm
CONSTRUCTION PERMITS
Construction Permits are issued for construction taking place within the public right-of-way (ROW) including but not limited to trench work for the abandonment, removal, installation, relocation, replacement or repair of utilities; sewer installation or repair; construction and/or repair of street, sidewalk, curb drain, curb ramp, curb and gutter, and driveway approaches.All construction permits require liability insurance naming the City of San Fernando as additionally insured and as Certificate Holder. Sewer installation and repairs require a bonded sewer contractor to apply for the permit. Construction plans require a ten day review before issuance of permit. Construction involving the disturbance of regular traffic flow requires Traffic Control Plan stamped by a Registered Traffic Engineer. Allow five (5) days for review of the traffic plan.
CONTACT INFORMATION
CITY HALL | Public Works Department
117 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340
(818) 898-1222 | PublicWorks@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7:30 am to 5:30 pm
Friday | 8 am to 5 pmSERVICE REQUEST PERMITS
Service Request permits are issued for the installation of water meters, fire hydrants, fire service lines; land development construction, additions, and “change-in-use;” water and sewer capital facility charges; the use of a construction meter during construction; sanitary sewer dye test; and fire flow test. Capital facility fees must be paid in full prior to issuance of building permit if a building permit is required or prior to construction.CONTACT INFORMATION
CITY HALL | Public Works Department
117 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340
(818) 898-1222 | PublicWorks@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7:30 am to 5:30 pm
Friday | 8 am to 5 pmTREE PLANTING PERMITS
Tree Planting permits are issued to residents interested in planting their own parkway tree(s). This is a no fee permit but does require City approval prior to start of any work. Tree Species are selected at the discretion of City staff and are required to be planted per City Standards. Tree Planting City Standards are available at Public Works Counter upon request.CONTACT INFORMATION
CITY HALL | Public Works Department
117 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340
(818) 898-1222 | PublicWorks@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7:30 am to 5:30 pm
Friday | 8 am to 5 pmPARKWAY MODIFICATION PERMITS
Parkway Modification permits are issued to residents interested in modifying their parkways to incorporate drought tolerant plants, decomposed granite, decorative rocks, stepping stones, mulch, artificial turf, or other permeable material options. Proposed parkway modifications require residents submit a plan layout identifying plant species and locations for City review and approval. This is a no fee permit but does require City approval prior to start of any work. Sample drought tolerant plant species, designs, and guidelines are available at Public Works Counter upon request.CONTACT INFORMATION
CITY HALL | Public Works Department
117 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340
(818) 898-1222 | PublicWorks@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7:30 am to 5:30 pm
Friday | 8 am to 5 pmWATER & SEWER
The Water Division is responsible for all aspects of the Water Department, including overseeing:- Production;
- Procurement; and
- Conservation of safe potable water for the City’s residential and business community.
The Sewer Division performs maintenance of the City’s sanitary sewer system by scheduled routine cleaning of sewer main lines and manholes and is made up of approximately:- 40 miles (215,915 linear fee) of mains; and
- Over 800 manholes.
CONTACT INFORMATION
OPERATIONS CENTER | Public Works Department
120 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340
(818) 898-1293 | PWDispatch@sfcity.orgTo Report a Water Issue (Leaking/Broken Water Meter, Fire Hydrant Knockdown, or Broken Water Main)
(818) 898-1293 | PWDispatch@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7 am to 4:30 pm
Friday | 7 am to 3:30 pmAFTER HOURS & WEEKEND EMERGENCIES
(818) 898-1267WATER QUALITY REPORT
CONTACT INFORMATION
OPERATIONS CENTER | Public Works Department
120 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340
(818) 898-1293 | PWDispatch@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7 am to 4:30 pm
Friday | 7 am to 3:30 pmWATER CONSERVATION
On June 6, 2022, the City Council adopted more restrictive water conservation measures in response to the State mandate to reduce water usage in the City by 20 percent. The following measures are outlined in the City’s Water Shortage Contingency Plan and were passed by the City Council to address this historical drought period:- Gutter flooding – No person shall cause or permit any water furnished to any property to run or escape into any gutter if such running can be reasonably prevented.
- Washing hard-surfaced areas – No person shall use any water furnished to any property within the city to wash sidewalks, driveways, etc. by hosing.
- Irrigation – No person shall water any type of vegetation or landscaping during the hours of 10:00 am and 5:00 pm.
- Ornamental facilities – No person shall refill any fountain, pool or other facility containing water solely for ornamental purposes.
- Leaks – No person shall permit leaks of water, which he/she has the authority to eliminate.
- Restaurants – Restaurants shall only serve water to customers upon request.
- Washing vehicles – Washing of vehicles, trailers, boats, etc. shall be done only with a handheld buckets or hose equipped with a shut-off nozzle for quick rinses, except that washing may be done with reclaimed water or a commercial car wash using recycled water.
- Watering lawns and landscape (through October 15, 2022) – All lawns and landscape shall be watered not more than two days per week, on an assigned day. The exception to this is for the use of drip-style irrigation that is used to grow food or water plants or trees.
- Watering lawns and landscape (starting October 16, 2022) – All lawns and landscape shall be watered not more than one day per week, on an assigned day. The exception to this is for the use of drip-style irrigation that is used to grow food or water plants or trees.
- Wasting generally – No person shall cause or permit water under his or her control to be wasted.In addition to the mandatory measures referenced above, the City Council also strongly encourages its businesses and residents to implement all efficiency measures through personal choices of responsible water use, use of existing conservation rebates, and planting of California native and drought tolerant vegetation, landscaping and trees.
CONSERVO DE AGUA
El 6 de junio del 2022 el concilio de la ciudad adopto medidas más restrictivas para conservar el agua en respuesta al mandato estatal para reducir el uso del agua un 20 por ciento. Las siguientes medidas son un resumen del Plan de Contingencia de Escasez de Agua de la Ciudad y fueron aprobadas por el Concilio de la Ciudad para tratar este periodo de sequia:- Desborde de canaleta – Ninguna persona debe causar o permitir que agua de cualquier propiedad corra o se escape hacia la canaleta si es posible prevenirlo.
- Lavado de áreas de concreto – Ninguna persona debe usar agua proporcionada para propiedades dentro la Ciudad para lavar banquetas, entradas de vehículos, etc.
- Irrigación – Ninguna persona debe regar ningún tipo de vegetación o paisajismo entre las 10:00 am y 5:00 pm.
- Instalaciones ornamentales- Ninguna persona debe rellenar ninguna fuente, piscina u otra instalación que contenga agua solo para propósitos ornamentales.
- Fugas – Ninguna persona debe de permitir fugas de agua que él o ella tenga la autoridad de eliminar.
- Restaurantes – Restaurantes deben servir agua solamente a clientes que lo pidan.
- Lavado de vehículos – El lavado de vehículos, remolques, barcos, etc., deben ser con balde de mano o manguera equipada con boquilla de interrupción para enjuagues rápidos, excepto que el lavado pueda ser hecho con agua reclamada o lavaderos de carros comerciales.
- Riego de césped y paisajismo (hasta el 15 de octubre del 2022) – Todo césped y paisajismo debe ser regado no más de dos días por semana, en los días asignados. La única excepción es el uso de irrigación de goteo que se usa para crecer comida o plantas de agua o árboles.
- Riego de césped y paisajismo (comenzando el 16 de octubre del 2022) – Todo césped y paisajismo debe ser regado no más de un día por semana, en el día asignado. La única excepción es el uso de irrigación de goteo que se usa para crecer comida o plantas de agua o árboles.
- Gasto de agua en general – Ninguna persona debe causar o permitir que el agua bajo su control se gaste.Además de las medidas obligatorias mencionadas anteriormente, el Concilio de la Ciudad también recomienda que los comercios y residentes implementen medidas eficientes a través de decisiones personales con el uso del agua, el uso de reembolsos existentes de conservación, y siembra de vegetación nativa a California y de sequía, paisajismo y árboles.
WATERING SCHEDULE FOR LAWNS
PLAN PARA REGAR EL CESPED
TIPS FOR CONSERVING WATER
Please visit the below websites to learn more about rebate programs, turf replacement, water-efficient irrigation, water-saving appliances and plumbing:BeWaterWise.com SoCalWaterSmart.com CONSEJOS PARA CONSERVAR EL AGUA
Visite los siguientes sitios web para aprender más sobre programas de reembolso, repuesto de césped, irrigación eficiente, aparatos y plomería eficientes:BeWaterWise.com SoCalWaterSmart.com CONTACT INFORMATION
OPERATIONS CENTER | Public Works Department
120 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340
Ramiro Arias, Public Works Field Supervisor I
(818) 898-1293 | RArias@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7 am to 4:30 pm
Friday | 7 am to 3:30 pmWATER PRODUCTION DIVISION
The Water Production Division is responsible for all operations and maintenance of the City’s wells, booster pump stations, reservoirs and pressure regulation stations. Imported water is purchased from Metropolitan Water District (MWD) of Southern California to supplement the local ground water supplies. There is an emergency connection to the City from Los Angeles Department of Water and Power water systems.CONTACT INFORMATION
OPERATIONS CENTER | Public Works Department
120 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340
Ramiro Arias, Public Works Field Supervisor I
(818) 898-1293 | RArias@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7 am to 4:30 pm
Friday | 7 am to 3:30 pmWATER DISTRIBUTION DIVISION
The Water Distribution Division is responsible for providing water to all City water customers in sufficient quantities to meet domestic and fire service demands; maintenance of approximately 66.5 miles of water mains, 5,264 water services, and 548 fire hydrants. The Division also installs new services (domestic and fire) that are ordered for new structures or demands by land use changes.CONTACT INFORMATION
OPERATIONS CENTER | Public Works Department
120 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340
Dany Garcia, Public Works Field Supervisor II
(818) 898-1293 | PWDispatch@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7 am to 4:30 pm
Friday | 7 am to 3:30 pmSEWER SERVICES
The City contracts with the City of Los Angeles for sewage treatment and disposal.Since 1985, the City has contracted with the County of Los Angeles for the enforcement of the City’s Industrial Waste Program. Industrial waste permit fees cover the cost of the program.
If you observe a sewage related issue, please notify the City immediately at the number below.
CONTACT INFORMATION
OPERATIONS CENTER | Public Works Department
120 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340
(818) 898-1293 | PWDispatch@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7 am to 4:30 pm
Friday | 7 am to 3:30 pmAFTER HOURS & WEEKEND EMERGENCIES
(818) 898-1267SEWER SYSTEM MANAGEMENT PLAN (SSMP)
WHAT IS A SEWER SYSTEM MANAGEMENT PLAN (SSMP)?An SSMP is a document that describes the activities an agency uses to manage its wastewater collection system effectively.
All public entities that own or operate a sanitary sewer system greater than one (1) mile in length that collect and/or convey untreated or partially treated wastewater to a publicly owned treatment facility in the State of California are required to by the State to have an SSMP in place and make a copy of the plan available on its website.
CONTACT INFORMATION
CITY HALL | Public Works Department
117 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340
(818) 898-1222 | PublicWorks@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7 am to 4:30 pm
Friday | 7 am to 3:30 pmUTILITY BILLING
The Utility Billing Division provides for customer service needs and utility billing for water, sewer, fire services, and hydrants on private property.CLICK HERE for more information on all utility services in the City of San Fernando
CONTACT INFORMATION
CITY HALL | Finance Department
117 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340
Sandra Soto, Senior Account Clerk
(818) 898-1245 | SSoto@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7:30 am to 5:30 pm
Friday | 8 am to 5 pmAPPLICATIONS & FORMS
CONTACT US
CITY HALL | Public Works Department
117 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340
(818) 898-1222To Request Service | PWDispatch@sfcity.orgFor General Information | PublicWorks@sfcity.orgGRAFFITI HOTLINE | (818) 898-7315 | SFGraffiti@sfcity.orgREGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Monday through Thursday | 7:30 am to 5:30 pm
Friday | 8 am to 5 pmAFTER HOURS & WEEKEND EMERGENCIES
(818) 898-1267