Frequently Asked Questions

Problems with bees, mosquitoes and dead animals can be reported to the Public Works Department at 858-755-3294. If the problem is on city property, call Public Works. If there is a dead animal on your private property, contact D.A.R. Contractors at 619-390-8204 to inquire about removal. 

You may contact San Diego County Wild Animal Control and Rescue at 858-229-7280 for assistance.

Please contact Public Works at 858-755-3294 and provide a description of the animal as well as contact information. This information is then provided to Public Works staff for follow up. Public Works will also contact the Del Mar Lifeguards, as they often recover pets along the beach and park areas of Del Mar.

Please contact Community Services at 858-755-1556 or Public Works at 858-755-3294 and we will have the dead seal removed.

Summer Rules – June 16 through Labor Day

• North Beach Area (29th Street north to Solana Beach Border): Dogs MUST be leashed and restrained at all times EXCEPT from dawn to 8:00 am 
• Main Beach Area (Between Powerhouse Park and 29th Street): NO dogs allowed at any time 
• South Beach (Between Powerhouse Park and Torrey Pines Beach Border): Dogs MUST be leashed and restrained at all times 

Off Season Rules – Day after Labor Day through June 15 

• North Beach Area (29th Street north to Solana Beach Border): Dogs permitted off-leash BUT must be under voice control 
• Main Beach Area (Between Powerhouse Park and 29th Street): Dogs MUST be leashed at all times EXCEPT from dawn to 8:00 am 
• South Beach (Between Powerhouse Park and Torrey Pines Beach Border): Dogs MUST be leashed and restrained at all times

Penalties for leash law violations begin at $285.

The Powerhouse Community Center is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from June through September. From October through May, it is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It can also be rented year-round for special private events. Please visit the Powerhouse Community Center website for facility use and rental information.

For information on becoming a lifeguard, please contact Community Services at 858-755-1556 or visit the How to Become a Del Mar Lifeguard webpage.

Yes, the City of Del Mar offers a Junior Lifeguard Program. For more information visit www.delmar.ca.us/jg

A Facility Use Permit is required to use the parks, beaches, or the Powerhouse Community Center involving more than 25 individuals or an event with business related services (ie. catering, lessons, vending, or other) with less than 25 people. The permit is necessary in order to balance the needs of the general public with those individuals seeking to gather for private or commercial use. Please contact the Community Services Department at 858-755-1524.

Tents are prohibited on city beaches, parks, preserves, bluff tops, or open spaces. Sunshades, beach cabanas, or canopies that are no larger than 10 feet by 10 feet in size and that have no more than two walls or 180 degrees of coverage are allowed on the beach or at Seagrove Park or Powerhouse Park. Sunshades or canopies that impair the Lifeguards ability to scan the beach or park may have to be removed.

The Del Mar Lifeguard Department has free tide books available at the Lifeguard Headquarters at 17th Street. Stop by and ask for your free copy.

Copies of the ACFR are available for $25 and are available at the Finance Counter M-F, 7:30 a.m. –4:30 p.m. We will mail a ACFR if requested, with additional charge for postage. It is also posted on the Budget and Financial Report page in the City Services - Finance Department section of the City website.

Effective December 19, 2022, all inquiries, communications, and payments related to business licensing will be handled by HdL Companies. Please visit www.delmar.ca.us/business for the most up to date information on applying for and renewing a business license. 
Business License Flyer - How to Appy & Renew (PDF)

The business license covers one calendar year from January 1 through December 31 and must be renewed annually.

Business license renewals are mailed out each year on/or about December 1. Business license renewals are due on December 31 of each calendar year. If payment is not received for the business license renewal by January 31, a 20% penalty charge will be applied to your delinquent tax each month of delinquency until payment has been received. For example, for one month delinquency, the penalty is 20%, for two months delinquency, the penalty is 40%.

Update:  The City has partnered with HdL Companies to administer all aspects of business licensing services for the City including processing of business license initial applications and annual renewals, payments, compliance, and general support. Beginning December 19, 2022, all inquiries and communications related to business licensing will be handled by HdL Companies.  Please visit www.delmar.ca.us/business for current information. 

As part of this transition to HdL Companies, the City’s business license annual renewal process will be slightly delayed this year. No business license renewal applications will be accepted prior to December 19, 2022. HdL will mail out business license renewal information to each business shortly after December 19, 2022, which will include an introductory letter from HdL’s Business Support Center with contact information; your business’s unique account number and access PIN; and instructions for processing your business license renewal. All businesses will have until February 28, 2023, to renew without penalty.

Please refer to Del Mar Municipal Code section 5.20.010.  The tax is automatically calculated based on the estimated gross receipts when you apply for or renew a business license online.  

Beginning December 19, 2022, all inquiries and communications related to business licensing will be handled by HdL Companies.  Payments can be made online by credit card or e-check. 

Please visit www.delmar.ca.us/business for the most up to date information on business licensing. 

In addition to obtaining a Del Mar business license, applicants must submit a letter of intent to the Community Services Department that describes the filming activities. A per day filming fee will be assessed based on the activities described. Current commercial liability insurance naming the City as the additional insured is required. For more information, contact Community Services at 858-755-1556 (M-F 9 am-5 pm).

In the mid-1980s, and in response to the growing concern for noise pollution and airborne contaminants, the City banned the use of all electric and gasoline powered leaf blowers City wide. 

Did you know? One two-stroke gasoline powered leaf blower produces as much pollution as 34 automobiles. The blower is also very hazardous to the operator. It blows animal droppings, which carry the Hantavirus, pollens, and other toxic materials into the air. There are no restrictions on other gas or electric powered tools or leaf vacuums

Yes, whether your business is physically located with our city limits, any person or business who transacts, or carries on any commercial activity within the City of Del Mar is first required to obtain a City of Del Mar Business License. This includes, home businesses, mobile businesses, gardeners, nannies, and non-profits. This includes all service contractors and their subs.

Any person or business operating in the City of Del Mar without first obtaining a City of Del Mar Business License is subject to fines of up to $1,000 per day of noncompliance. For additional information on applying for and obtaining a City of Del Mar Business License, please refer to Business License Information or contact the City of Del Mar Finance Department at (858) 755-9354.

Signs advertising a residential property for sale, or an open house, may only be posted by the occupant of the adjacent dwelling unit or with the permission of the occupant, and may only be posted in residential zones. The maximum area of a temporary sign, as measured on one side, may not exceed 5.5 square feet.

The Del Mar Municipal Code prohibits posting any sign, or portion of a sign, that encroaches into a street, sidewalks, bike lanes, paved and unpaved walking paths, traffic circles, or center medians. Signs must not block motorists’, cyclists’, or pedestrians’ sightlines, or otherwise conflict with the public’s health and safety.

Prohibited locations: Commercial zones, City-owned properties, parks, beaches, bluffs, or within an environmentally sensitive resource area. Signs affixed to utility poles,  or any city infrastructure such as streetlights, trees, traffic light poles, or any City sign, are strictly prohibited.

Signs found in violation of the Del Mar Municipal Code will be confiscated. Signs confiscated by the City are subject to confiscation fees of $25.00 per sign. Repeat offenders will also be issued a fine. The City will send you a notice if your sign has been confiscated.

Staff contact: Patty Malik 858-704-3651 or pmalik@delmar.ca.us.

Link to the Del Mar Municipal Code Chapter 30.84- Signs

It is a violation of both City and County codes to leave a dog to bark. Further, other than designated areas, it is also a violation of both City and County Code to allow a dog to walk unrestrained in public.City and County Code requires dog owners to effectively control their dog’s behavior by voice, or electronic pet containment system, or must physically and humanely restrain them by a leash, fence, or other enclosure. 

Yes. Please check out our Dog Friendly Beach page at Dog Friendly Beaches.

The City’s Noise Ordinance regulates construction days, hours and noise. Construction hours are limited to 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday. No construction is allowed on Sunday or City observed holidays.

Please take advantage of our online Citizen’s Complaint Form at, http://www.delmar.ca.us/forms.aspx?FID=93.

Your complaint will then be forwarded on to the Code Enforcement Officer for review, and investigation. If you have questions about a violation of the City’s Municipal Code, the Code Enforcement Officer can be reached by,

1. In person at 1050 Camino del Mar

2. Call (858) 704-3651

3. Email code@delmar.ca.us

In October 2009, the Del Mar City Council voted to amend its Smoking and Tobacco Regulations (DMMC Chapter 11.08). The revised ordinance bans smoking in many public and private properties. The following is a brief overview of the City’s smoking and tobacco regulations and lists the locations where smoking is prohibited in Del Mar.

Air quality issues are handled through the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District. When an air quality problem is observed at a stationary source (business, government or military), please call (858) 586-2650, email apcdcomp@sdapcd.org, or use the San Diego County Air Quality Complaint App.

No. The ordinance bans smoking only in select locations. Smoking includes, cigar, pipes and vapes.

• Enclosed public places - such as stores, restaurants, churches and offices open to the public
• Places of employment
• Parks, beaches and seawalls and their street sidewalks, stairs and cul-de-sacs
• Taxi Cabs operating in Del Mar
• Child Care facilities
• All sidewalks and those segments of any street lined with a sidewalk
• All portions of outdoor seating areas of any bar or restaurant and within reasonable distance of those seating areas, including: adjacent sidewalks and/or streets and roads
• All public plazas and public and semi-public spaces identified in an approved Specific Plan
• All outdoor arenas, stadiums, and amphitheaters; including their bleachers and grandstands
• All public transportation station facilities; such as train stations and bus shelters
  Any property zoned as Public Facility (PF).

Other than a child day-care facility, the City of Del Mar does not regulate smoking on private property. If you are a renter, please check with your property management company.

A personal or private office where the public is not invited to do business, and where there are no employees. Residential neighborhoods that do not contain public sidewalks and are not adjacent to a beach or park.

If you are at a business, store or restaurant, please ask an employee to enforce the ordinance. If you are walking along a sidewalk or in another public place where smoking is banned, you can ask the smoker to extinguish their cigarette, cigar or pipe. If you are uncomfortable doing so, or if the person refuses your request, you may contact a City Code Enforcement Officer at (858) 704-3651 or the Community Services Department at (858) 755-1556.

The ordinance provides a variety of methods of enforcement ranging from warnings to fines upwards of $1,000.00. In addition to these fines, the owner, manager, or operator of a business who allows smoking in a prohibited location may have their permits or licenses to operate suspended.

If the tree in question is on your private property and it is any species of tree other than a Torrey Pine tree or Monterey Cypress, then you can remove the tree at your own discretion with no City involvement in the matter. However, if the tree is located in the public right-of-way*, on a property within the Central Commercial Zone, on a property located in an Open Space Overlay Zone, or if the tree is a Torrey Pine or Monterey Cypress, it is considered to be “protected” by City Ordinance and a permit is required to remove the tree. (*To get help to determine the approximate location of the public right-of-way [Public/Private edge], contact the Planning Department at (858) 755-9313.) If the trunk of the subject tree is: 1) within 12 feet from the exterior wall of a residence; 2) within 12 feet of another protected tree; 3) less than 20 inches in circumference when measured at 24 inches above the ground; or 4) an immediate threat to public health and safety, then it may be exempt from the permit requirement. If one of these four circumstances applies, then the property owner would complete a Notice of Intent form, attach a simple plot plan and indicate which exemption applies. The exemption would then be verified by Staff via a visit to the site and signed-off as exempt. For more information, please contact the Planning Department at (858) 375-9516 or by email at Planning@delmar.ca.us.

The Trees, Scenic Views and Sunlight Ordinance (DMMC 23.51) provides a process by which residents may seek to restore scenic views and/or sunlight that they feel have been unreasonably obstructed by the growth and/or installation of trees and vegetation since the time the property owner purchased or occupied the property, or in the last 10 years, whichever is shorter.

The Ordinance requires that attempts are first made to work out an amicable solution with the vegetation owner, including formal mediation. If these resolution efforts are not successful, then a resident may fill out the Trees, Scenic Views and Sunlight Application to have the issue reviewed by the Planning Commission at a public hearing. The Commission would then make a determination based on evidence presented.

To find out more about the process and other application requirements, you may view the Ordinance in its entirety here Trees, Scenic Views, & Sunlight Ordinance or contact the Planning Department at (858) 375-9516 or by email at Planning@delmar.ca.us.

Yes. Any person, or business who transacts or carries on any commercial activity within the City of Del Mar needs to first obtain a City of Del Mar Business License. This includes anyone who conducts business within the City regardless of the physical address of the business or whether a profit has been made. Moreover, any mobile business is required to carry a copy of this license at all times and furnish it upon request.

All sub-contractors, gardeners, pool servicing companies and the like are required to hold an active City of Del Mar Business License. 

For more information on how to obtain a business license, please visit this site's Business page.

Per DMMC 1.10.070, you have a right to appeal your Administrative Citation. The DMMC requires that you do so within 15 calendar days of the date of the citation, or forfeit your right to your appeal.

To appeal your Administrative Citation, you must submit a written request, along with payment of the full amount of the fine to, 

City of Del Mar
Attn: Code Enforcement Officer
1050 Camino del Mar
Del Mar, CA 92014

This information is also found on the back of your Administrative Citation. Once the Code Enforcement Officer has received your request, they will contact you with an Administrative Hearing date. Failure to meet the 15 calendar day deadline will waive your right to an Administrative Hearing. 

For more information about and Administrative Appeals Hearings,

https://library.municode.com/ca/del_mar/codes/municipal_code?nodeId=TIT1GEPR

The City Council generally meets on the first and third Mondays of each month in the Town Hall at 1050 Camino Del Mar. Meetings begin at 4:30 p.m. Periodically, a meeting is either cancelled or postponed due to scheduling and/or holidays. Please call City Hall to verify the schedule at (858) 755-9313 or check the City Council Meeting Calendar on this website.

You may speak on an item on the agenda by attending the City Council meeting and submitting a “Speaker’s Slip” to the City Clerk at the beginning of the meeting and/or before the item is discussed by the City Council. You can obtain a Speaker’s Slip at the City Council meeting or at City Hall. Any person may address the Council for three minutes.

You can pick up a copy of the Council agenda at City Hall on the Friday prior to the Monday meeting or you can review the agenda on the City Council meeting page on the Agenda Center webpage.  

You can attend the meeting in person, watch the meeting live on Mondays, beginning at 4:30 p.m. on Time Warner TV Ch. 24 (or via channel 98.503 for those without cable), view the meeting live on the Del Mar website, or watch the recorded meeting beginning either at 9 a.m. on the day following the meeting (typically Tuesdays) or beginning at 6 p.m. two days following the meeting (usually Wednesdays), on Time Warner TV Ch. 24. You can also watch the meeting on the Del Mar website’s video-on-demand archive.

You can receive a DVD of a City Council meeting by submitting a public record request online on our website. Click here to submit a public record request. You may also view the City Council DVD at the Del Mar library or watch the meeting on our website through the video-on-demand archive.

Please provide your request in writing to the Mayor, with a copy to the City Clerk. The Mayor's contact information can be found on the City Council page and the City Clerk can be contacted by email at cityclerk@delmar.ca.us. Generally, the City only issues resolutions and proclamations for matters that particularly pertain to the City of Del Mar; however, the Mayor will review your request and determine whether the Council will issue a proclamation or resolution. It is helpful to provide copies of proclamations and resolutions either from other years, or other municipalities in California that have supported your request.

The electorate of Del Mar elect City Council members at the City’s General Municipal Election held in November of even-numbered years. The citizenry elects all Council members at large. There are no political districts in the City. The positions of Mayor and Deputy Mayor rotate among the Council members on a yearly basis upon selection by the Council.

A candidate for City Council must be a resident and registered voter in the City of Del Mar, and be nominated by no less than 20 registered voters of the City of Del Mar. The candidate-filing period is governed by state law and is limited to between the 88th day and the 113th day before the election. Interested candidates may contact the City Clerk for more information about filing. The City Clerk can be contacted by email at cityclerk@delmar.ca.us.

A watershed is the area of land where all water drains to a specific waterbody. The City of Del Mar is located within the San Dieguito Watershed.

San Dieguito and Los Peñasquitos Watersheds

Storm water is a specific term referring to water generated from rain. Urban runoff is a more general term referring to storm water runoff generated from rain that flows over land or impervious surfaces, such as paved streets, parking lots, and building rooftops, and does not soak into the ground. Urban runoff also refers to all other water that originates from urbanized areas such as industrial discharges, irrigation water, leaks and spills, and wash water. These are commonly known as “non-storm water discharges.” This runoff picks up pollutants like trash, chemicals, oils, and dirt/sediment that can harm our lagoons and the Pacific Ocean.

Besides wasting money, irrigation water that runs off your lawn can cause erosion and carry soil, trash, pet waste and excess fertilizers and pesticides from your lawn into the storm drains and ocean. In addition, it can pick up other pollutants it may encounter on its path to the storm drain system (i.e. trash, chemicals, oils, and dirt/sediment). Trash and decaying plant material can result in harmful bacteria at our beaches. Pesticides can damage important ecosystems and cause health threats. Fertilizers can contribute to excessive plant and algae growth, and dead and/or dying plant material in the water can take the oxygen out of the water and suffocate all other life in the water.

Beach closure signs are required when beach water quality testing or known sewage spills indicate that a health threat exists to swimmers due to high bacteria levels. Bacteria can increase in rivers and beaches from storm water and urban runoff entering the storm drains that have come into contact with fecal matter (animal waste, including pet waste), excessive green or garden waste, fertilizers and other materials. When water quality test results do not meet State health standards, or there is a suspected sewage or chemical impact to recreational waters, the Beach and Bay Water Quality Program (San Diego County) issues advisories and closures to inform the public. These postings are required by the County Health Department and are generally posted by a Beach and Bay Water Quality Staff Member. Once an advisory or closure has been issued, the Beach and Bay Water Quality Program will revisit the area to collect a resample. Sample results are received between 24-48 hours. Once samples indicate water quality is within State health standards, the postings are lifted by either program staff or lifeguards. The City’s lifeguards are notified by the County Health Department regarding posting requirements and can provide additional information.

Additional beach water quality information may be obtained through the following resources:

• County of San Diego Beach and Bay Water Quality Program website (http://www.sdbeachinfo.com/);
• County of San Diego Beach and Bay Water Quality hotline: 619-338-2073;
• Heal the Bay Beach Report Card for grades based on a 30-day period (http://beachreportcard.org/); or
• Contact the City of Del Mar Clean Water Program at 858-704-3652.
  
  

It is illegal to power wash or hose down your sidewalks and driveways if the water enters the street, a storm drain, storm water conveyance system, or receiving waterbody (the lagoons or ocean). Hosing and power washing flush all of the pollutants that are on the streets, sidewalks and driveways into the nearest storm drain and out to the ocean. These pollutants typically include the following:

• Bacteria
• Lawn waste
• Metals from air pollution that have settled
• Oil and other automobile fluids
• Pet waste
• Sediments
• Trash

There are methods that can be implemented to contain and properly dispose of wash water, preventing it from entering the storm drain. For example, commercial power washers are required to contain the wash water with berms or other methods, vacuum it up, and then dispose of it in an approved location, usually the sanitary sewer. If residents do not have the resources to prevent the wash water from entering the streets and storm drain, an easy alternative is to sweep up (instead of hosing down) the areas and dispose of the debris in the trash.

It is still permitted to wash your personal vehicle at home. However, the best alternative is to take your vehicle to a commercial car wash, where wash water is recycled and then directed to the sanitary sewer for treatment. If you must wash your vehicle at home, please try to limit the amount of soap and water used and, if possible, conduct the washing on a pervious surface where the water can soak in, such as on your lawn or gravel. Discharges from residential vehicle washing are considered illicit under the Del Mar Municipal Code. It should be noted that charity car washes are prohibited in the City, unless the wash water is prevented from entering the storm drain system and receiving water bodies. The City can provide guidance as to how charities can conduct water friendly car washes. Mobile detailers may be used by residents providing they have a City of Del Mar business license and contain the wash water with berms or other methods, vacuum it up, and then dispose of it in an approved location, like the sanitary sewer. 

You are allowed to discharge swimming pools/spas once residual chlorine, algaecide, filter backwash, or other pollutants are removed. To dechlorinate the pool water, you can let it sit (without adding any more chemicals) and test for chlorine or use a commercial dechlorinating chemical (available at pool supply stores) and carefully follow instructions. The discharge of saline swimming pools/spas must be directed to the sanitary sewer, landscaped areas, or other pervious surfaces that can accommodate the volume of water. Prior to discharge of any pool/spa water, the path to the storm drain system should be cleared and flow rates should be non-erosive. It is advised that all residents and pool maintenance companies contact the Public Works Department (858-755-3294) prior to discharging pool or spa water to review the most appropriate method based on the location and conditions.

It is illegal to dump oil or other automobile fluids into the gutters or storm drains. All automobile fluids must be stored under a cover or in watertight containers. Outdoor auto repairs are illegal during a rainstorm, and all hazardous waste must be disposed of at a hazardous waste collection site. Residents can dispose of household hazardous materials at the Poway Facility, the Vista Facility, or the Escondido Facility (the Escondido Facility is open on an appointment-only basis). Spilled or leaking fluids should be cleaned up with an absorbent product (such as oil dry or kitty litter), swept up, and properly discarded.

• Poway Facility: 12325 Crosthwaite Circle, Poway, CA 92064 (9am-3pm, Saturdays only).
  • Phone:  858-668-4710
  • Proof of Del Mar residency (formal ID or current utility bill) required
• Vista Facility: 1145 E Taylor St, Vista, CA 92084 (9am-3pm, Saturdays only). 
  • Phone: 800-714-1195
  • Proof of Del Mar residency (formal ID or current utility bill) required
• Escondido Facility: 1044 West Washington Avenue, Escondido, CA 92025 (open on an appointment-only basis, two Saturdays per month)
  • Please call (760) 745-3203 (M-F 8am-5pm) to find out available dates and schedule an appointment

For more information on the Household Hazardous Waste program, please visit the Regional Solid Waste Association website. A visit to the WasteFreeSD website can provide you with many local hazardous waste disposal opportunities.

It is illegal to allow any construction materials (such as paint, wood stain, or grout), or wash water from the cleaning of construction materials, to enter a storm drain. It is also illegal to discharge sediment in the streets or storm drains. If you have a small stockpile of sediment or other materials, you must make sure it is covered when not in use (you can secure a tarp over the pile). Keeping the material covered will protect it from rain and wind. You must also vegetate or secure, with appropriate erosion control materials, all bare areas so that they will be protected from erosion.

Too much sediment or dirt in our water bodies chokes aquatic life by creating murky conditions, filling natural drainage areas, and altering the topography of the land. If you see construction materials or sediment coming off the property of any construction sites, immediately notify the City at 858-704-3652 or use the Report Urban Runoff Online Form found on the City's website and an inspector will arrive on site as soon as possible.

To report other environmental concerns and report pollution incidents outside of the City of Del Mar, please contact the regional public hotline at 888-846-0800 (24 hours a day) or visit Project Clean Water, which has options for reporting pollution or for finding more San Diego County jurisdiction hotline phone numbers. The City of Del Mar Public Works Department may also be contacted during normal business hours at 858-755-3294.

Water conservation and water quality protection go hand-in-hand. When planning new landscaped areas around your home, consider using drought tolerant plants or native plants, such as succulents and cacti. These use less water, and as a result less run-off from the garden enters into our storm drains. The use of drip-irrigation systems, soil moisture sensors to shut off sprinklers when not needed, and ensuring that sprinklers are turned off during rainstorms, all help! Please visit the Water Conservation page for more information and resources.

In addition, consider the use of alternatives to chemicals for management of garden pests. Too much pesticide used outdoors ends up in our lakes, beaches, and bays when it rains or when we over-water. The same with excess fertilizer - it can be too much of a good thing. Accidental contact with pesticides can also harm our pets and children. Information on Integrated Pest Management is available from the County of San Diego and from major lawn and garden centers throughout San Diego County.

Lastly, if you see any potential contaminants entering the storm drains, immediately notify the City of Del Mar Clean Water Program at 858-704-3652 or use the Report Urban Runoff Online Form found on the City's website and an inspector will arrive on site as soon as possible. Of special concern are any of the following, or similar, potential sources of contaminants:

• Construction materials or sediment coming off the property of any construction sites and entering the City’s right-of-way
• Landscape crews using hoses to wash down driveways or gutters into the street
• Power washing or mobile detailing operations whose run-off is flowing into the sidewalk, curb and gutter, street, or storm drain
• Restaurants washing their mats or equipment and allowing the runoff to flow into the streets or alleyways

To report other environmental concerns and report pollution incidents outside of the City of Del Mar, please contact the regional public hotline at 888-846-0800 (24 hours a day) or visit Project Clean Water for a listing of San Diego County jurisdiction hotline phone numbers. The City of Del Mar Public Works Department may also be contacted during normal business hours at 858-755-3294.

For more information and resources, please visit the Clean Water Regulations & Resources page.

Good Housekeeping
• Use mops, brooms or wire brushes to clean dumpsters, sidewalks, buildings, equipment, pavement and other impervious surfaces.
• Sweep up trash and debris.

Materials Storage and Handling
• Store materials indoors or under covered/contained areas not exposed to rain or wind.
• If materials cannot be stored under cover, place materials on pallets and cover with a secured tarp to avoid contact with storm water run-on and runoff.
• Dispose of unused materials properly.

Waste Disposal Management
• Keep dumpsters closed when not in use.
• Sweep around dumpsters and other areas to prevent trash from accumulating.
• Immediately clean up spills and leaks.

Spill Response
• Keep rags, mops and absorbents readily accessible.
• Dispose of waste properly.
• If necessary, develop a spill response plan and update as needed.

Employee Training
• Train employees on pollution prevention and spill response.
• Post information in employee areas.

For questions or additional information, please contact the Clean Water Program at 858-704-3652 or through email at cleanwater@delmar.ca.us.

The Clean Water Program investigates urban runoff reports received; in addition, bi-monthly patrols are performed to identify potential sources of pollution. During these investigations and patrols, the Clean Water Program looks for evidence of potential pollution and urban runoff and determines a source. If there is an active discharge occurring, the Clean Water Program Investigator will try to establish contact with the business owner to cease activities. In addition, the Clean Water Program will generate a Clean Water Education Letter to provide education on urban runoff and pollution prevention practices and describe the issue that was observed with photos that were taken during the investigation or patrol. If you received a Clean Water Education Letter, please implement the requests noted by the Clean Water Program. Should you have questions or need assistance, please call the Clean Water Program (858-704-3652) to discuss the Clean Water Education Letter further.

A Notice of Violation (NOV) is issued by City staff when there is a discharge of pollutants directly or indirectly into the storm drain system or when best management practices (BMPs) are not properly implemented, as it pertains to Chapter 11.30 of the Del Mar Municipal Code (Stormwater Management and Discharge Control). In addition, NOVs are issued when repeat offenses are observed, after education has already been provided. Some examples of discharges or improperly implemented BMPs can include (but are not limited to) runoff from power washing, excessive trash surrounding dumpster areas, uncovered trash cans/dumpsters, or irrigation runoff. The Notice of Violation contains information on the violation of the Municipal Code, the discharge observed, and a request to rectify the issue. It is expected the issue is addressed in a timely manner.  If you have any questions about a Notice of Violation your business has received and what to do to address the issue(s), please contact the Clean Water Program at 858-704-3652 or cleanwater@delmar.ca.us. If observed issue(s) are not addressed, further actions may be taken.

Dumpsters/Port-a-Potty
• Always cover dumpsters with a rollback tarp or lid.
• Areas around dumpsters should be swept daily.
• Perimeter controls should also surround dumpsters and all Port-a-Potties.
• If dumpsters or Port-a-Potties are kept in street, encroachment permits are required.

Perimeter Controls
• Gravel bags, silt fences, and straw wattles are acceptable perimeter controls, and must be used to surround the entire site to control run-on and run-off.
• Avoid running over perimeter controls with vehicles or heavy equipment, as they can damage the materials.
• Keep extra absorbent materials and/or a wet/dry vacuum on site to quickly pick up unintended spills.
• Sites must also be checked and maintained daily.

Materials Storage
• All building materials and fuel stored on the site must be contained and covered.
• It is illegal for contractors to wash out paint brushes in the street or dump any residues in the storm drain.
• Paint brushes and spray guns must be contained and disposed of properly.

Building Materials/Staging Areas
• Construction materials must be stored on site at all times unless an encroachment permit has been obtained.
• Building materials should always be covered when not in use to prevent run-off cause by wind or rain.

Basement/Sump De-watering
• Water collected in basements or detention basins due to natural groundwater seepage or rain events must be allowed to evaporate or be pumped to trucks with holding tanks for offsite disposal.
• Pumping this water onto the street or an adjacent property is an illegal discharge prohibited by law.

Tracking Controls
• All entrances and exits on the site must have coarse gravel or steel shaker plates to limit offsite sediment tracking.
• Public roads must be swept to remove any dirt or sediment tracked offsite.

Concrete Tucks/Pumpers
• Pumpers must be surrounded by perimeter controls, such as gravel bags.
• Plastic sheets also must be placed beneath concrete pumpers, at all times, and residual materials must be cleaned up.
• Washout areas must be used whenever cleaning trucks.

Washout Areas
• The disposal of “wet” construction materials (i.e. paint, stucco, and concrete) should be handled in the washout area.
• Use a berm and/or plastic sheet to collect and contain liquids and prevent run-off in nearby areas.
• The washout area must be checked and maintained daily to ensure compliance.
• Washout liquids must be disposed of properly.
• Washout areas should be adequately covered and protected during rain events.

Dirt and Grading
• Mounds of dirt or gravel should be stored on site.
• These materials must also be covered each day with a tarp, visqueen, or other form of protection.
• Visqueen and/or tarps must be available and on site to cover 125% of exposed areas during the rainy season (October 1st – April 30th).

Earthmoving Equipment
• All earthmoving equipment should be stored on site.
• Maintenance should also be conducted on the site, and tracks and trails left by equipment leading to and from the site should be cleaned up immediately.

Storm Drains
• Storm drains must be protected at all times with perimeter controls, such as gravel bags or straw wattles.
• Sediment accumulation should be removed frequently.

For questions or additional information, please contact the Clean Water Program at 858-704-3652 or through email at cleanwater@delmar.ca.us.

The Clean Water Program performs construction site inspections in addition to investigating urban runoff reports received. During these inspections and investigations, the Clean Water Program looks for proper BMP implementation, evidence of urban runoff, and performs a source determination. If there is an active discharge occurring, the Clean Water Program Investigator will try to establish contact with the contractor or homeowner to cease activities. In addition, the Clean Water Program will generate a Clean Water Education Letter to provide education on urban runoff and prevention practices and describe the issue that was observed with photos that were taken during the investigation. If you received a Clean Water Education Letter, please implement the requests noted by the Clean Water Program. Should you have questions or need assistance, please call the Clean Water Program (858-704-3652) to discuss the urban runoff report further.

A Notice of Violation (NOV) is issued by City staff when there is a discharge of pollutants directly or indirectly into the storm drain system or when best management practices (BMPs) are not properly implemented, as it pertains to Chapter 11.30 of the Del Mar Municipal Code (Stormwater Management and Discharge Control); an NOV can also be issued for BMPs that are not installed correctly or for repeat issues that are observed over time.  Examples of discharges or improperly implemented BMPs may include (but are not limited to) material migration off project site (concrete, sediment, etc.), sediment-laden runoff, or tracking issues. The Notice of Violation contains information on the violation of the Municipal Code, the discharge observed, and a request to rectify the issue. It is expected the issue is addressed in a timely manner.  If you have any questions about a Notice of Violation your business has received and what to do to address the issue(s), please contact the Clean Water Program at 858-704-3652 or cleanwater@delmar.ca.us. If observed issue(s) are not addressed, further actions may be taken.

Trash
• Throw litter in designated trash bins only.
• Make sure trash containers are properly covered.
• Ensure trash stored in truck beds is secure and cannot blow away.
• If you see litter, pick it up and dispose of properly.

Lawn and Garden Care
• Reduce the use of lawn and garden care products such as pesticides, insecticides, fertilizers, herbicides and other chemicals.
• As an alternative, use environmentally friendly replacements that are known as Integrated Pest Management.
• Avoid over-watering and irrigation runoff, which washes these chemicals from lawns and gardens into the storm drain system.
• To save water, consider planting native and drought tolerant plants.
• Do not apply pesticides, fertilizers or other chemicals within 48 hours of an anticipated rainstorm.
• Only use chemicals as much as is directed on the label, till it to the soil, and keep it off driveways and sidewalks.
• Sweep up yard waste and debris and dump it into a green bin for composting (or trash can if the debris isn't organic waste).
• Do not use a hose to wash off sidewalks, parking areas, and garages.

Vehicle Care and Maintenance
• Consider washing your car at a commercial car wash, where wash water is recycled and then directed to the sanitary sewer for treatment.  
• When washing a car at home, limit the amount of soap/detergent used and, if possible, conduct the washing on a pervious surface where the water can soak in.
• Use a hose with a shut off nozzle to limit the amount of water used.
• Use rags, drip pans, or cardboard when repairing vehicles or under leaking vehicles.
• Fix any leaks from your vehicle and keep up the maintenance on your car.
• Use absorbent material such as cat litter on oil spills, then sweep it up and dispose of it in the trash.
• Recycle used motor oil at a local Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center

Pets
• Take a bag with you when walking pets and clean up after them.
• Flush pet waste down the toilet or dispose of it in a sealed plastic bag and throw it in the trash.
• Keep a pet on a leash for their safety.

Good Housekeeping
• Use non-toxic products for household cleaning.
• Use a broom, wire brush, or other dry methods to clean outdoor surface areas.
• Never hose or wash anything to the street or storm drain.
• Dump wash water to a vegetated/landscaped area or to an indoor drain.

Pools, Spas and Fountain Maintenance
• Only water that has had residual chlorine, algaecide, filter backwash, or other pollutants removed can be drained to the street and storm drain system.
• The discharge of saline swimming pools/spas must be directed to the sanitary sewer, landscaped areas, or other pervious surfaces that can accommodate the volume of water. Swimming pool/spa water can't go down the storm drain before treatment.
• Prior to any discharge, the path to the storm drain system should be cleared and flow rates should be non-erosive.
• Contact the Public Works Department (858-755-3294) prior to discharging pool or spa water to review the most appropriate method based on the location and conditions.

Door hangers are left by City staff when active urban runoff is identified and contact with the resident cannot be made.  The purpose of the door hanger is to notify the resident that urban runoff was observed at, or near, their property and provide education and information on urban runoff and prevention practices. If you received a door hanger at your property, please review the recommendations provided in the pamphlet. Should you have questions or need assistance, please contact the Clean Water Program (858-704-3652) to discuss the runoff activity and potential resolutions in more detail.

The Clean Water Program investigates urban runoff reports received; in addition, patrols are performed to identify potential sources of pollution. During these investigations and patrols, the Clean Water Program looks for evidence of potential pollution and urban runoff and determines a source. If there is an active discharge occurring, the Clean Water Program Investigator will try to establish contact with the resident to cease activities. In addition, the Clean Water Program will generate a Clean Water Education Letter to provide education on urban runoff and pollution prevention practices and describe the issue that was observed with photos that were taken during the investigation or patrol. If you received a Clean Water Education Letter, please implement the requests noted by the Clean Water Program. Should you have questions or need assistance, please call the Clean Water Program (858-704-3652) to discuss the urban runoff report further.

A Notice of Violation (NOV) is issued by City staff when there is a discharge of pollutants directly or indirectly into the storm drain system or when best management practices (BMPs) are not properly implemented, as it pertains to Chapter 11.30 of the Del Mar Municipal Code (Stormwater Management and Discharge Control). In addition, NOVs are issued when repeat offenses are observed, after education has already been provided.  Examples of discharges can include (but are not limited to) irrigation runoff, broken sprinkler systems leading to runoff, or improper pool discharges. The Notice of Violation contains information on the violation of the Municipal code, the discharge observed, and a request to rectify the issue. It is expected the issue is addressed in a timely manner.  If you have any questions about a Notice of Violation you received and what to do to address the issue(s), please contact the Clean Water Program at 858-704-3652 or cleanwater@delmar.ca.us. If observed issue(s) are not addressed, further actions may be taken.

It is ultimately the responsibility of the resident to ensure that hired contractors are performing work activities in compliance with the Del Mar Municipal Code, including the implementation of best management practices to prevent pollutants from being introduced into the environment, as listed in the Residential Storm Water Protection FAQ above.

The DRB meets at 6 p.m. the fourth Wednesday of the month in the Del Mar Town Hall. Applications must be submitted and deemed complete by staff before the item is scheduled for a DRB meeting. There is generally a six to eight week period between submittal of a completed application and a hearing date.

Briefly, the steps involve submittal of a completed application form, a fee and accompanying documents and plans. Staff reviews the submitted material for two purposes. The first is to ensure that the project meets the applicable zoning requirements (Title 30 - Del Mar Municipal Code). The second is to verify that the submittal has all the information required to adequately assess the project and complete a staff report for DRB review (Title 23.08 - Del Mar Municipal Code). The DRB reviews the project at a noticed public hearing at which time the applicant and other interested parties may address the DRB. The DRB then determines whether the project meets the Design Review Ordinance (DRO) standards and whether to approve the project, usually with conditions; deny the project; or continue the application to a subsequent hearing to gain additional information or to allow the applicant to respond to concerns that may have been raised by Board members or the public. Once the City’s Design Review Board approves a project, the applicant (usually the architect) prepares a more detailed set of “working” drawings for submittal to the Building Department for plan check review and ultimately receipt of building permits. The review and issuance of building permits is actually done by EsGil Corporation, which, as stated above, serves under contract as the City’s Building Department and operates out of offices at Solana Beach City Hall. City staff will also review the detailed “working” drawings, and issue an Authorization Form stating that the plans can be submitted for building permits. City of Solana Beach Building Services Monday-Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (closed between noon and 1 p.m. daily) and Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed alternate Fridays).
Solana Beach Building Permit Counter: 858-720-4450 635 S. Highway 101 Solana Beach, CA 92075

How do I object to a project at the DRB?

The application will be evaluated by the Design Review Board for its consistency with the Design Review Ordinance (DRO). The DRB makes its determination based on that “standard of review.” If you object to a project, you should review the DRO to see if one of its regulatory findings addresses your particular concerns. You can then register your objection in the context of the DRO via a letter to the board and/or during public testimony at the DRB meeting.

While you are not precluded from waiting until the DRB meeting to express your concerns, we have found the process to be more effective when staff and the project architect are aware of potential objections ahead of the public hearing. This also allows the DRB members an opportunity to review your objection at the project site before the meeting.

If your objection involves the potential for view blockage, additional information is available in a handout found at the Planning Department counter at City Hall. The handout will help you more clearly identify and document your objections for the DRB.

In addition to the DRB permit described above, some projects also require review by the City’s Planning Commission. The Planning Commission is a five-member citizen committee appointed by the City Council. The Planning Commission reviews and acts on various discretionary permits such as variances and conditional use permits, and advises the City Council on other land use matters such as zoning amendments and subdivisions. The Planning Commission generally meets once a month at 6 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month. The steps involved in submittal of plans for Planning Commission review and the review process itself are roughly the same as that described above for the Design Review Board.

Yes, decisions of both the DRB and PC may be appealed to the City Council. Appeals must be filed with the City Clerk within 10 working days of a DRB/PC decision and must be accompanied by the required fee. Del Mar Municipal Code (DMMC) Chapter 1.12 governs the appeal process. The DMMC is published on our website.

Two reasons: First, these inspections are conducted by on-duty firefighters that must be ready to respond to an emergency call from the field. This is why you almost always see the personnel together as a crew and have the fire engine with them when they are out of the fire station. Second, an important part of the value of the public safety inspection is to familiarize your local firefighters with the buildings and businesses in Del Mar. While they check for hazards and consult with business owners on how best to eliminate or minimize the likelihood of a fire, they also familiarize themselves with access points and the layout of the facility.

Yes. Smoke detectors are required on every level, in every sleeping room, and in the hallway outside of each sleeping room. We recommend the same configuration for existing homes, but it is not required by ordinance. California law requires smoke detectors to be installed in every dwelling intended for human occupancy.

Del Mar’s roof ordinance does not allow the use of any wood roofing materials for any replacement roof in the City. As a result, wood shake shingles are not allowed due to our climate and the rapid burn rate of this type of roofing material. The only exception to this rule is that a homeowner is allowed to replace up to 10% of their wood roofing on a one-time basis, if damage occurs.

The City Clerk’s office posts upcoming committee vacancies and the application deadline on the bulletin board at City Hall and on the Committee Vacancies page of this site. There is a list of City Council Advisory Committees posted on the City’s web page. You may download the Citizen’s Interest Form (PDF) and send the completed form to the City Clerk at cityclerk@delmar.ca.us in order to apply for a committee. We suggest that you contact the City Clerk for copies of resolutions that describe the committees that you are interested in and provide additional information. You may also sign up to be notified by email when new vacancies are posted.

For Door-to-Door Pickup Program: 

Del Mar residents have the option of home collection of materials for a $10 co-payment. For seniors (65+) and/or disabled Del Mar residents, the $10 co-payment is waived. Please call CleanEarth to schedule door-to-door pick-up at 858-481-SAFE (7233).

For Drop-off:

Residents can utilize permanent hazardous waste collection facilities located in the cities of Poway, Vista and Escondido, as outlined here. 

• Poway Facility: 12325 Crosthwaite Circle, Poway, CA 92064 (9am-3pm, Saturdays only).
  • Phone:  858-668-4710
  • Proof of Del Mar residency (formal ID or current utility bill) required
• Vista Facility: 1145 E Taylor St, Vista, CA 92084 (9am-3pm, Saturdays only). 
  • Phone: 800-714-1195
  • Proof of Del Mar residency (formal ID or current utility bill) required
• Escondido Facility: 1044 West Washington Avenue, Escondido, CA 92025 (open on an appointment-only basis, two Saturdays per month) 
  • Please call (760) 745-3203 (M-F 8am-5pm) to find out available dates and schedule an appointment

For more information on the Household Hazardous Waste program, please visit the Regional Solid Waste Association website. A visit to the WasteFreeSD website can provide you with many local hazardous waste disposal opportunities.

Many older computer monitors, televisions, and other electronics have a cathode ray tube (CRT) or picture tube that converts electronic signals into visual images. California banned the landfill disposal of CRTs as it contains lead. Although there are no health hazards associated with handling intact, unbroken computer monitors or televisions, it is important to keep them out of our landfills where they can contaminate soil and groundwater.

• All types of electronic waste will be accepted at the Poway, Vista, or Escondido HHW Facilities.
• It is recommended that unwanted electronic items in working order be donated.  Goodwill Industries has partnered with Dell to accept all computers and computer related equipment and electronics (working and non-working) at no charge. Please visit Dell Reconnect for more information. A donation center is located in the Park & Ride Lot at Interstate 15 and Mira Mesa Blvd. Feel free to call the Park & Ride location at (619) 225-2200. Residents can call toll-free at 1-888-4-GOODWILL or 1-866-48 REUSE (73873) or visit the Goodwill page to find other drop-off locations or retail stores.
• More disposal and recycling opportunities are available at WasteFreeSD.org. 
• Del Mar residents may call EDCO at (619) 287-7555 for a free pickup (which counts as one bulky waste item pickup out of three free pickups a year).

Call (858) 755-9354 or come by the Finance Department at 1050 Camino del Mar for an Application Packet or download the Application from the City website. See Del Mar Municipal Code Chapter 6.61 for more information.

Call (858) 755-9354 or come by the Finance Department at 1050 Camino del Mar. See Del Mar Municipal Code 6.61.020 for more information. The Exemption Form is available on the City website as well.

Call (858) 755-9354 or come by the Finance Department at 1050 Camino del Mar for an Application Packet or download the Application from the City website. See Del Mar Municipal Code Chapter 6.60 for more information.

Parking rules are enforced every day, including holidays. Parking meters are enforced on Coast Boulevard, the 17th Street lot, and Park/Pay/Display zones on Camino del Mar from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m, year-round. The public parking lot Park, Pay, and Display spaces at L’Auberge Del Mar are enforced every day from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., including holidays and weekends. Other regulations and limits are clearly posted.

Parking protests can be made online at www.paymycite.com or by mail. A copy of your ticket with a short note stating the facts of your appeal can be sent to:
C/O Parking Citation Service Center

PO Box 11923

Santa Ana, CA 92711

Staff review each appeal and a response is returned within 21 days. Be sure to include your return address and a copy of your citation.

Questions? 858-704-3659

A ticket issued for 4000(A)(1)CVC (expired registration) or 5200(A) (both plates required) can be reduced to $25 by presenting the vehicle’s current registration. This is called a “fix-it ticket.” Payment for the ticket can be completed online at paymycite.com. It is also possible to pay for the ticket in person at Del Mar City Hall from 7:30am - 5:30pm Monday - Thursday, or by mail. Please include the following: 1) a check for $25 (payable to the City of Del Mar); 2) a copy of your current registration to:

IR City of Del Mar

C/O Parking Citation Service Center

PO Box 11923

Santa Ana, CA 92711

If corrected, bail on these violations may be reduced to $25 per corrected violation with valid proof of each correction. Appeal and proof of valid registration must be received within 21 days of the citation date or penalties will be accrued.

You can mail a check payable to the City of Del Mar along with the citation to 

P.O. Box 11923, Santa Ana, CA 92711 

Or you can pay your ticket online (this option may avoid a delay). If you prefer to pay in person, you may do so at the following location:

• Del Mar Civic Center
  1050 Camino Del Mar
  Del Mar, CA 92014
  Monday - Thursday 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

• Pay by phone at 888-300-9915. Call Monday through Friday between 8 a.m and 5 p.m. to have an operator take the payment by phone.
• Questions? 858-704-3659 (M-F 8 am-5 pm) or 858-755-1556 (M-F 9 am-5 pm) for Administrative Citations.
• Payment plans are available to those who qualify. More information can be found on the Parking Ticket Payment Plans page.

Citation appeals must be received within 21 days of the citation issue date, or 14 days of the date of the citation courtesy notice. Once that period has expired, the right to appeal has been forfeited. Exceptions to the rule include contesting your citation on the grounds that the vehicle no longer belonged to you at the time the citation was issued, or the sole registered owner of the vehicle is now deceased – both of which allow for an unlimited period to appeal the citation. 

Please call the City’s Parking Enforcement Division at 858-704-3659 (M-F 8 am-5 pm).

No. Citations must be paid within the prescribed time set forth by the California Vehicle Code, which is 21 days from the issue date, or 14 days from the date of the citation courtesy notice. If you moved and did not receive your citation notice, and you failed to submit a change of address with the Department of Motor Vehicles within 10 days from the date you moved, you will still be held responsible for any additional late charges.

Should you have a specific issue relating to citations, late fees, or any other issue, please fill out a parking issue form at https://www.delmar.ca.us/forms.aspx?FID=92.

As a first step, status of payment can be found at paymycite.com. Enter “Del Mar” as the agency and then enter your license plate number. As a secondary measure you may call The Phoenix Group at 888-207-5716 or the city’s Parking Enforcement Division at 858-704-3659. Tell them your license plate number and that you received the ticket in Del Mar. They will then be able to look up the citation for you.  

A copy of your placard can be uploaded to paymycite.com. 

It can also be mailed. Please mail the following:

• A copy of the individual registration I.D. card issued by the DMV

Please send to:

City of Del Mar

C/O Parking Citation Service Center

P.O. Box 11923

Santa Ana, CA 92711

Please call the Phoenix Group, the City's citation processing agency, at (888)-207-5716, or the City’s Parking Enforcement Division at (858)-704-3659. With either the citation number or your license plate number, representatives will be able to look up the citation and review payment status. Citations can also be viewed on the Paymycite website. Enter “Del Mar” as the agency, then enter your license plate number. .

You can call the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department North Coastal Station at 760-966-3500 (M-F 8 am-5 pm).

The Parking Violation Bureau does not grant payment extensions. A payment must be received within 21 days of the date the citation was issued, or 14 days from the date of the first overdue notice. Otherwise, late fees will be added, which often double the citation fine. Additional collection fees may be applied if the citation remains unpaid after the initial late penalty is assessed.

Payment plans are available for indigent and eligible low-income motorists who qualify.

Organic waste is defined as food waste, green waste (landscape trimmings), nonhazardous wood waste, and food-soiled paper waste that is mixed in with food waste.

Since it was enacted in 2022, SB (Senate Bill) 1383 requires every jurisdiction in California to provide organic waste collection services to all residents and businesses in order to reduce the accumulation of short-lived climate pollutants. All Del Mar residents and businesses must participate in organic waste disposal. For more information on SB 1383, please visit the CalRecycle page or visit the full bill text for further reading.

The City of Del Mar or Solana Center can tell you if the new regulations apply to you. You can also use the Generator ID tool developed by CalRecycle which allows businesses to determine if you meet the thresholds and need to implement an organic diversion program.

Businesses can meet diversion requirements through one or more of these actions:

• Schedule a free Less to Landfill waste assessment to identify how you can reduce waste
• Arrange for green waste recycling services with Waste Management (1-866-WMRECYCLE)
• Donate surplus food to local food banks and pantries
• Explore on-site composting options with support from Solana Center for Environmental Innovation
• Self-haul landscape trimmings off-site to a compost/mulch facility
• Separate organic waste for collection and disposal by an organic waste recycling service, with guidance from Solana Center
• Request an exemption as allowed by the state from the City

See more diversion options and recommendations on our Ways to Comply with AB 1826

If a business generates both food and green waste, then it is required to divert both material types from all sources at the location.

A business that is required to divert organic waste from disposal will not be in compliance with the law if it only arranges for diversion for some of the organic waste it generates. For example, a store with commercial green waste recycling would not be in compliance if its food waste is sent to the landfill (i.e., put in trash dumpster) rather than recycling it.

The following are the 5 types of organic waste identified in the law that need to be addressed: food waste, green waste, landscape and pruning waste, nonhazardous wood waste, and food-soiled paper waste that is mixed in with food waste.

Solana Center for Environmental Innovation, an environmental non-profit, specializes in waste diversion practices and can provide help with any of the above actions. While funding is available, the City of Del Mar subsidizes the cost of Solana Center consulting to businesses.

Organic waste is defined as food waste, green waste (landscape trimmings), nonhazardous wood waste, and food-soiled paper waste that is mixed in with food waste.  An estimated 41% of waste put in landfills is comprised of organics that could be diverted or composted.

All organic waste can be placed directly in your green bin, which will be collected by Del Mar's organic recycling provider, EDCO. Please visit EDCO's organic recycling page for more information and tips. Other food waste diversion strategies can be found on this site's Zero Waste page.

It is critically important to protect our beaches and lagoons from sewer contamination. Public Works will investigate, and if the public sewer main is clogged, we will immediately work to open the system and clean up any spilled sewage. If sewage is spilling into your yard, street, or drainage system, please immediately contact the City of Del Mar Public Works Department at 858-755-3294 or, after hours, contact the North County Dispatch JPA at 858-756-1126.

If it is determined that blockage is within your service line that attaches to the city main, then you will need to contact a plumber to clean your system of blockage. To keep sewer line problems to a minimum, limit the amount of green waste put in your garbage disposal by recycling and composting. Also, use old milk cartons or coffee cans to dispose of cooking grease as it will also help to keep your sewer clean.

No. The private sewer lateral is not city installed and therefore, we have no information available. In order to locate your sewer lateral, you will need to contact a private plumber.

Call a plumber for private maintenance. If excavation is required on a public right of way, a permit will be needed. Have your plumber contact the City of Del Mar Planning Department for an encroachment permit prior to excavation in the public street right of way. The Planning Department can be contacted by phone at 858-375-9516 or email at Planning@delmar.ca.us.

The Public Works Department is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays to respond to problems with the city systems. The Public Works Department can be contacted at 858-755-3294. Emergency staff is always on call after business hours and can be reached by contacting the North County Dispatch JPA at 858-756-1126, which provides after hours dispatch services for both emergency and non-emergency calls. For your private systems, many plumbers offer after-hours service.

Sewer back-ups are usually due to clogged plumbing in residential pipes. Please call a private plumber. If the City's system is suspected to be the problem, on week days between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., call Public Works.  If you are calling after hours, please contact the North County Dispatch JPA at 858-756-1126, which provides after hours dispatch services for both emergency and non-emergency calls. Please do not call 911!

To start utility service, please contact the Finance Department at 858-755-9354. You will need to fill out, complete, and submit a Utility Service Application, which may be obtained via website, mail, or in person. The start of utility service does require a $100 deposit which is billed to the account and will appear on your first billing statement.

To stop utility service, use the online request form or contact the Finance Department at 858-755-9354. Information required for stopping utility service is the stop date and forwarding address for the closing utility service bill.

For further information regarding how you can put utilities underground in your neighborhood, please contact the City Managers office for a copy of a Utilities Undergrounding Guide. Additionally, you may either stop by the City Hall or contact us at 858-755-9313.

The process to get an exception is called a variance, which is issued only if the Planning Commission finds that some special circumstances associated with the property warrant approval of the requested variance from the standards.

Remember that current zoning requirements of the City may apply to your project or property but not to others. For instance, your neighbors’ homes may have been built many years ago under different zoning requirements. Their “non-conforming” improvements may be allowed to stay if they were constructed when different development standards were in place. In the event your neighbors undergo a significant redevelopment of their properties, they will also have to comply with current zoning standards.

Generally, in the City of Del Mar, the curb or edge of the street does not correspond to the adjacent private property boundary line. In most cases, the public streets in Del Mar were not constructed as wide as their dedicated rights-of-way. This means that there is usually some amount of public land between the edge of the street paving and the adjacent private property. Unfortunately, the City does not have a precise map that depicts the edge of the public rights-of-way around town, therefore only approximate locations can be given. The only way to be certain of your property’s boundary lines is to hire a licensed surveyor to perform a boundary survey. 

The City can research its GIS system and files for information that may have been submitted as part of a past development application, such as an old survey or site plan. We can also check to see if there have been any public improvement plans developed for the right-of-way in the immediate vicinity of your property. With this type of information, we can possibly help you locate the approximate location of your property line, but again, only a surveyor can tell you for sure where it is.

Yes, a permit is required prior to relocating a gas or electrical line. Before visiting or contacting City Hall, please contact San Diego Gas and Electric (SDG&E) to obtain a work order, or visit their Service Requests page to apply online. Then, visit the Planning Counter at Del Mar City Hall with the work order in hand. A City Planner will assist you in obtaining required paperwork to process and complete the request. Planning Counter hours are Monday and Wednesday 1-5:30 pm.

To schedule an inspection, you can call (858) 375-9528 or email Inspector@delmar.ca.us.

SDG&E maintains our streetlights and will service them at no cost to you. Please contact SDG&E at (858) 654-1219.You can also use the SDG&E Report a Street Light Outage online form or send an email to streetlighting@sdge.com.

Call Public Works at (858) 755-3294. Identify the location of the traffic signal and a description of the problem.

A Citizen-Initiated Traffic Device Consideration must be submitted and is available on the City Website under Traffic & Roadway Standards. Please see Part C of the Procedures for Administering Traffic Warrants & Guidelines (PDF). Approval by the City Council is also required prior to installation.

Under emergency situations, the Public Works Department will provide up to 10 bags and access to sand for Del Mar residents only. Residents must provide proof of residence (such as a driver's license) to receive sandbags. This service is available from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and from 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays at the Public Works yard located at 2240 Jimmy Durante Boulevard. Residents must fill bags themselves. Sandbags are also available at local building and supply stores like Dixieline or The Home Depot. 

The City will prioritize the individual projects using a methodology approved by the City Council. For the undergrounding schedule, please visit this site's Project Updates page.

Measure Q money will pay for the undergrounding of overhead utilities within the City’s right-of-way.  The homeowners will pay for the cost of converting and connecting the overhead utilities from the property line to the service connection at the house i.e., laterals.

The cost varies depending on the site condition e.g., on how far the lines need to run and any obstacles or surface improvements.

The City will work with the homeowners to provide resources for securing financing. Guidelines for qualification will be established.

Staff will prioritize the projects using the prioritization process recommended by the Utility Undergrounding Advisory Committee and approved by the City Council.

Yes.  However, since undergrounding work is under the purview of the City, it cannot be delegated. Timing is also subject to SDG&E’s capacity.  Municipal services for which the City is responsible will not be delegated to others without due process. Therefore, any independent work may not be compensated with public funds such as Measure Q money.

The City will not reimburse those properties that have previously undergrounded at their own expense.   The City will not reimburse those homeowners who have expended funds currently and are in the process to underground.  The City will only take over the financial responsibility for work within the City’s right-of-way going forward as scheduled by the City. Privately-initiated and led efforts within the City’s right-of -way do not qualify for compensation as the work falls within the City’s purview and may not be delegated.  Following are some of the reasons for this:

• The work was not completed in compliance with the contracting and labor laws that City’s projects funded with public funds are subject to.
• It is not feasible to go back and separate and identify costs that could potentially be eligible or to verify the work was let for bid and awarded properly.
• It is unknown how to define the qualified owner such as current owner, previous owner, or even future one.
• The homeowners have already benefited from the investment and received contributions (i.e., resources) from the City during the work.
• There is no way of knowing if the costs spent were well spent and the City would get a good value.

Typically, once a district is created, undergrounding and pole removal are expected within three to five years, subject to City Council approval and Measure Q fund availability.

The City is evaluating all of its projects in an effort to coordinate with the undergrounding projects to potentially consolidate the work and save money and minimize neighborhood disruption in the process.  However, these other City projects will not slow any approved undergrounding project except in an emergency case where public safety and well-being always takes precedence.

The City has established an email address to receive, distribute, and respond to inquiries. The address is UP@delmar.ca.us. Also, when specific neighborhoods have been identified for undergrounding, a ‘team captain’ from the neighborhood will be identified to act as a point of contact and to distribute information. For further questions, please visit the Utility Undergrounding FAQs (PDF).

The items included on your utility bill are water, wastewater, and clean water fees.

Water is a precious commodity in Southern California. Our water comes from the Colorado River at Lake Havasu in Arizona through the Colorado Aqueduct and from the California Aqueduct from the northern part of the California delta region. Then the water is treated and transported by San Diego to our facilities here in the City of Del Mar. 

Conservation and water-wise use of water will lower your water bill. For water conservation measures, please visit this site's Water Conservation page. In the event that you consider your bill higher than usual or suspect a water leak, please contact the Finance Department to request a re-read of your water meter. The Finance Department can be reached at 858-755-9354 (M-Th 7:30 am-5:30 pm and Friday 7:30 am-4:30 pm). If you feel the meter is providing the wrong reading, Public Works can remove your meter and have it calibrated. To contact Public Works, please call 858-755-3294. This work would be at the residents expense. If the meter is found defective, the charge will not apply. 

Note: Check for leaks by turning off all the water in your house. Look at your water meter and, if the small dial is moving, water is being used on your property and may indicate a leak. If this occurs, please contact your plumber.

Please contact the Finance Department at 858-755-9354 (M-Th 7:30 am-5:30 pm and Friday 7:30 am-4:30 pm) and we will review the bill with you.

We offer two automatic payment plan options, Automatic Debit and Automatic Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover). With Automatic Bill Payment, your recurring utility bills will be paid automatically. This is a free service that eliminates the need for you to write out a check each time a bill is due and saves the cost of postage for mailing your check to the city. Your payment is always made on time, so there are no worries about late payments or late fees, even when you are on vacation.

In order to participate in this program, please register for an online account and schedule your payments. Please have your 8 digit account number handy. Please refer to Auto Pay guide for step by step instructions.

The City of Del Mar accepts Visa, MasterCard, and Discover payments online, in person, or by phone.  Visit the Utility Billing page for more information. 

Install water saving showerheads, high-efficiency toilets and clothes washers, and use water-wise gardening (such as Xeriscape). Please visit the San Diego County Water Authority's rebate program website at http://www.watersmartsd.org/ for rebate incentives. There are also a variety of water conservation tips and resources on this site's Water Conservation page.

Installation of a water softener is a personal choice, but we recommend against the recycling type, which discharges high amounts of salt into the sewer system. Consider having a water treatment company provide treatment canisters, which do not recycle into the sewer. This will allow beneficial use of reclaimed water for irrigation at a lower cost.

A completed Construction Meter Application (PDF) needs to be submitted to the Finance Department along with a deposit. The Finance Department can be contacted by phone at 858-755-9354 (M-Th 7:30 am-5:30 pm and Friday 7:30 am-4:30 pm) or by email at finance@delmar.ca.us. Once the application and deposit are turned in you may obtain the meter at the Public Works Department, which is located at 2240 Jimmy Durante Boulevard.

A sub-meter is a secondary meter placed on your private line beyond your primary meter. It is intended to precisely calculate in-home water use, and must be installed by your private plumber. An irrigation meter is a separate meter installed on the City of Del Mar water main and is recommended for irrigation systems and eliminating charges for sanitary sewer use. The City will install an irrigation meter, but there is a fee. For further information, please contact the Public Works Department at (858) 755-3294.

Please do not attempt to shut off your water meter on your own. Meters are very easy to damage and extremely expensive to repair. The City of Del Mar Public Works Department will be glad to turn your meter off without charge with a four-hour notice (normal work hours are 7:30 am to 4:00 pm and the office is closed from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for lunch). The City encourages residents to install a separate valve on your side of the meter to turn water off without having to risk damage to a City meter. If interested, please contact a local plumber for an installation estimate.

Most meters are located between your home and the edge of the street in a small utility vault. However, the meters are located on your private line connection to the public water main and sometimes these services are installed from side or rear of properties due to location of the water main. If you are having problems locating your meter, please contact Public Works at 858-755-3294 and they will be glad to assist you.

If you feel your water meter has not been read recently, call the Finance Department at (858) 755-9354 (M-Th 7:30 am-5:30 pm and Friday 7:30 am-4:30 pm) to review your records; a member of the Public Works staff will be glad to visit with you at your home and show you the meter reading. Please have your most recent water bill in hand.

Call the Public Works Department at (858) 755-3294 and we will inspect the system for problems. In many cases, the problem is within the residence and is the responsibility of the owner. If this is the case, a plumber may be necessary. Certain times of the year, water is delivered with a slight turbidity and odor due to lake conditions where the water is stored prior to treatment. However, it is safe to drink and is tested on a regular basis in compliance with the Department of Health Services guidelines. The City of Del Mar annually sends a copy of the Water Quality Report to all residents. You may request a copy of the Annual Water Quality Report or the City of Del Mar's Annual Water Quality Newsletter from Public Works at (858) 755-3294.

Free residential water use audit: A water conservation specialist provided by the Metropolitan Water District will come to a residence or coordinate with you virtually to perform a home water use evaluation free of charge. The evaluation will cover both indoor and outdoor water usage. The virtual or in-person visit will also include recommendations on water usage improvements for the property. Go to www.waterefficiencysurvey.com to apply. 

Residential rebate incentives: Residential rebate incentives have been effective in achieving water conservation savings. A limited number of rebates will be available through the Metropolitan Water District’s SoCal Water$mart program for Southern California residential water customers. Funding is limited. Rebates will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis until funding is exhausted. Please visit the San Diego County Water Authority's rebate program website at http://www.watersmartsd.org/ for rebate incentives.

The cost to install a new water and sewer connection is based on the meter size. The current City of Del Mar capacity and connection fees, a meter installation deposit, and the San Diego County Water Authority capacity charge are required at the time of application submittal. If you are planning on installing new water and/or sewer service, please download the Water and Sewer Service Connection Application (PDF) or contact the Finance Department at (858) 755-9354 (M-Th 7:30 am-5:30 pm and Friday 7:30 am-4:30 pm).