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1. When does team registration begin?

Early February.

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1. How do I schedule an inspection?

Submit your inspection request to svbuild@scottsvalley.org and include the following information:

• Building Permit #
• Site Address 
• Contact Person
• Contact Phone 
• Type of Inspection 
• Preferred Inspection Date/AM or PM
• Contact Email 

2. How will I know when my permit is ready to issue?

The Building Permit Tech will call you and let you know: 

• When the permit has been cleared by all reviewing departments.
• What fees will be due at the time of permit issuance.
• When the permit may be picked-up.

3. Can I pay for my permit with a credit card?

The Building Department only accepts cash and check for payment.

4. How can I find out about the permit history of a parcel?

Visit the Building Department during counter hours (Monday through Thursday 8 to 11:30 a.m.) and ask to see Building Permit History files for a particular address.

5. When can I submit for a permit?

You can submit an application for a permit between 8 and 11:30 a.m. Monday through Thursday. The City accepts payment in the form of cash or check.

6. Who can do the work?

Yourself as owner / builder or a licensed contractor. As an owner / builder, please review these important documents:

• Notice and Verification (PDF)
• Owner Agent Form
• Owner Declaration Form
• Owner-Builder Information Handout (PDF)

7. Do I need a grading permit?

Find more information about grading permits by reading the grading permit requirements document (PDF).

8. Do I need an engineer to design my grading plans?

Find information about grading plans by reading this engineered grading document (PDF).

9. Do I need a tree removal permit?

Find information on the tree removal permit in the Trees section of the Planning Department.

10. Can I get a permit through the mail?

No. The building permit must be paid for and signed at the counter. The City accepts check or cash for payment.

11. What are your contact numbers?

For additional information contact the Building Department at 831-440-5630, Fax at 831-438-2793, or email us. 

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1. Who provides water service in Scotts Valley?

Scotts Valley

Water service in Scotts Valley is provided by: 

Scotts Valley Water District
2 Civic Center Drive
Scotts Valley, CA 95066

Phone: 831-438-2363

Scotts Valley Water District Website

Whispering Pines Area & Mount Hermon Road

Portions of the Whispering Pines area and Mount Hermon Road are serviced by:

San Lorenzo Valley Water District
13060 Highway 9
Boulder Creek, CA 95006

Phone: 831-338-2152

San Lorenzo Valley Water District Website

2. Who provides fire service in Scotts Valley?

Fire Service in Scotts Valley is provided by:

Scotts Valley Fire Protection District
7 Erba Lane
Scotts Valley, CA 95066
Phone: 831-438-0211
Scotts Valley Fire Website

3. Who provides waste disposal services in Scotts Valley?

The City of Scotts Valley contracts with GreenWaste for waste disposal and recycling services. The contact number for GreenWaste is 831-426-2711, you can find information about their services on their website as well.

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1. Do I need a business license and how much will it cost?

If you are conducting any business within the City limits, you will need to apply for a license. 

Forms can be mailed to you or picked up in the Finance office: 

City Hall 

1 Civic Center Drive

Scotts Valley CA 95066

Call 831-440-5611 for forms and all applicable fees.

2. Who do I talk to about bonds?

Call the Finance Director at 831-440-5610.

3. Who do I talk to about the Scotts Valley Drive tax (CFD-1)?

Call NBS Government Financial Group at 800-676-7516.

4. How do I get on your vendor list?

The City has de-centralized purchasing. You must contact each department directly.

5. Sewer line problems?

Call the Wastewater Treatment Plant at 831-438-0732 or in an emergency call Police Dispatch at 831-440-5670.

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1. What is Measure Z?

Measure Z is a measure placed by the City on the March 3, 2020 ballot asking if voters wish to increase the local sales tax to support at-risk City services.  Measure Z would eliminate the existing ½-cent sales tax and replace it with a 1¼ sales tax.  The increase would be ¾ cents for a new rate of 9.75%.

This ¾-cent difference would raise $2 million in new funds annually and would be deposited into Scotts Valley’s General Fund. 

Measures Z includes a sunset of 12 years, when it would automatically expire.

2. What would the new funds be used for?

Sales tax is deposited in the General Fund to pay for general city services.  The police department and local dispatch make up 45% of the General Fund, in addition to public works such as streets, storm drain, sidewalk and parks maintenance and other supporting city services. The revenues from Measure Z would help prevent deep cuts in City services paid from the General Fund, with public safety being a significant portion of that.

3. What happens if the tax doesn't pass?

With direction from the City Council, the City will have to cut millions more in General Fund programs and services. Up to now, the City’s cuts have been to components of the City other than public safety.  With deficits in the range of $1-3 million and compounding, the City would be forced to reduce public safety services, given the proportion of the police department of the City’s General Fund budget (45%).  We will be unable to keep SVPD just as it operates today unless a significant new revenue stabilizes the city. All of the General Fund services would be examined and reductions would be expected in parks, infrastructure and maintenance.

4. What items are charged sales tax?

Under state law, sales tax is charged on tangible, personal goods.  Services are not taxed.  Grocery items are not taxed.  Prepared foods (at restaurants) and alcohol are taxed.

Link to California Department of Tax and Fee Administration Sales Tax Information:  https://www.cdtfa.ca.gov/formspubs/pub452.pdf

5. Who pays sales tax?

Anyone who purchases taxable goods in Scotts Valley pays the sales tax, not just residents of Scotts Valley. 

It has been estimated that about 30 to 40 percent of the sales tax paid comes from non-residents. Scotts Valley provides shopping options for the greater region and for through-traffic on Highway 17.  These visitors use City streets and services, including Scotts Valley’s notable public safety. Thus, the sales tax is paid by a wider range of people, who all benefit from City services.

6. How much will this cost families on average each year?

Measure Z would generate a new ¾ of a cent for every dollar spent.  If a family makes $10,000 a year in taxable purchases, there would be an additional $75 in sales tax with the new rate. 

For a $50 dinner at a restaurant, it would be 38¢ more.

For a $100 purchase, it would be 75¢ more.

7. How is the sales tax spent in the City?

Sales tax revenue is deposited into the City’s General Fund, which is the main account for basic city services, such as public safety, public infrastructure improvements and maintenance and general operating city services.  The General Fund is 45% allocated to the police department and safety services.

8. What is the sales tax rate? Who gets it?

The current sales tax rate in Scotts Valley is 9.00%, the same as Capitola and the unincorporated County.  In Santa Cruz and Watsonville, the rate is 9.25%. 

The 9.00% sales tax in Scotts Valley is made up of a state sales tax portion (7.25%) and a local transactions and use tax portion (1.75%).  Of the total 9.00% rate, the City of Scotts Valley receives 1.50%, which is one-and-a-half cents for every 9 cents collected.  Translated into dollars, Scotts Valley receives 75 cents for every $50 spent on taxable goods.   

Here is a breakdown of the sales tax allocation in Scotts Valley:

Also, see: https://www.cdtfa.ca.gov/taxes-and-fees/sut-rates-description.htm

9. If the sales tax does not pass, could others get the tax instead of Scotts Valley?

If Measure Z does not pass, then the ¾-cent tax capacity is available for regional governmental bodies or organizations to seek. For instance, Scotts Valley shoppers currently pay 1.25% in local sales taxes from voter-supported regional measures for libraries, regional transportation and the bus system.  These regional bodies could place a countywide tax measure on a future ballot to obtain the ¾-cent tax revenue, instead of it going to Scotts Valley.

10. How else will the City address the need for more revenue?

It’s important to note that if Measure Z passes, it will not cure the City’s budget challenge.  Measure Z is significant in that it would prevent major cuts to core City services, but the City will need to continue to support growth in the local economy and look to other revenues streams to create a stable and thriving City government.

Economic development is an important component of a healthy city budget.  The Council is actively working on initiatives to support a strong local economy, which helps businesses, residents, and the City.  The City has a Council Economic Development Committee to focus on this topic. The Council recently established a Town Center Exploratory Committee with the Mayor and Vice Mayor to redouble efforts to create this envisioned downtown gathering place, rich with shopping and restaurants.  The City Council designated the Vice Mayor to focus City efforts on the replacement of Kmart.

In the recent years, the City supported the 1440 Multiversity and Four Points Sheraton hotel projects which have added greatly to Scotts Valley’s services and amenities and helped the City’s budget.  Additionally, the City is engaged in the approved Marriott Residence Inn project to construction.  This 120-room hotel would bring in additional hotel taxes to support community services.

Also, the City will look to ensuring that existing taxes are being fully and fairly collected.  We plan to audit our tax rolls to ensure we gather uncollected revenues.

11. How does the loss of Kmart and businesses like Scotts Valley Sprinklers hurt our needed revenue?

Kmart was one of our largest sales tax producers so this loss is significant. The loss of any business hurts the City’s finances, particularly businesses such as Kmart and Scotts Valley Sprinklers. 

The City Council considered this matter in December 2019 and appointed the Vice Mayor to spearhead the retail replacement and economic development strategy.  The City is working to identify a desirable replacement that will add to Scotts Valley’s retail amenities. This is significant in that the City did not have to act as the transaction is one between private parties. The City, however, did not want to be on the sidelines and so elected to get involved to help shape an outcome positive for the community.

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1. Where does the City get its money?

Local governments mostly get their revenue from local taxes, such as property tax, hotel (TOT) tax, sales tax and utility users tax.  In addition, cities receive funding from federal and state grants for programs or equipment. Cities charge fees for certain services, such as recreation programs and building permits, that directly cover the costs of those services.

Scotts Valley is heavily reliant on sales tax and hotel tax, which makes up 50% of its revenues (sales tax 31% and hotel tax 19%).  Just 13% of its revenues come from property tax and 6% from utilities users tax.  The remaining sources are franchise and business license taxes and other grant, fee or state sources.

2. What is the City's budget?

Scotts Valley has a $12.9 million General Fund budget, which pays for general city services.  The police department and local dispatch make up 45% of the budget, nearly $6 million. The next largest department, 16% of the budget, is public works, which manages all of the streets, roads, parks, and public facilities. The remaining 39% of the budget is for planning, building, capital improvement projects and general city administrative services (finance, human resources, legal, risk management and administrative services).

The City’s budget is developed in public through a five-month process with staff and the City Council. The budget process starts in February with final budget adoption in June. 

For more information about the City’s budget: https://www.scottsvalley.org/184/City-Budget

3. How does Scotts Valley's budget compare to others?

Scotts Valley has the smallest budget and staffing of any government in the county.  The City supports a community of about 12,000 with a $12.9 million General Fund budget and staff of 60 positions, nearly half of which are in the police department. 

Santa Cruz’s General Fund budget is $106 million with 770 positions for a community of 66,0000. Capitola’s General Fund budget is $17.5 million with 67 positions for a community of 10,000.  For an over-the-hill comparison, Mountain View’s budget is $390 million with 690 positions for a community of 81,000.

4. How many staff work for the city?

About 15 years ago, Scotts Valley had 76 full-time positions.  Since then, to cut the budget, the number of positions was reduced to 60, which is 20% fewer staff working at the city.

Police department – 28 positions (6 currently vacant)
Public Works – 10 positions (2 currently vacant)
Wastewater Treatment Plant – 6 positions (1 vacant)
Recreation – 5 positions
Community Development – 5 positions (3 currently vacant)
Administrative Services – 4 positions
City Manager and City Clerk – 2 positions

Currently, there are 12 vacancies.

5. How much are our police paid? Is it competitive?

Our police are the lowest paid in the County.  An entry level police officer earns $63,000 per year.  In Santa Cruz, the salary is $75,500 for an entry-level officer, about 20% higher. Elsewhere in the County, an entry-level officer can early 30-40% more than Scotts Valley. In Mountain View, that same officer would earn $112,000.

The Police Chief earns $184,000. In the County, other Police Chiefs are paid: Santa Cruz ($217,000), Watsonville ($191,000), and Capitola ($167,000).  In Mountain View, the Police Chief earns $298,000.

Even now, SVPD is having difficultly recruiting and retaining trained police officers as the Department is unable to pay a competitive wage. SVPD officers are paid below other agencies in the County.

6. How much are City staff paid?

Scotts Valley posts its salaries on its website:  https://www.scottsvalley.org/339/Salary-Schedules.  Generally, Scotts Valley employees are the lowest paid in the County, and much lower than over the hill. 

Council Members in Scotts Valley receive a stipend of $489 per month, which is established by State law.

The Scotts Valley City Manager is paid $198,924.  In the County, other cities managers are paid:  Santa Cruz ($233,628), Watsonville ($214,200), Capitola ($202,161).  In Mountain View, the City Manager is paid $310,076.

7. What is CalPERS?

CalPERS is the State retirement system that the City and most all State agencies contract with. The courts have ruled that agencies have a contractual obligation to continue the retirement benefits promised employees who have retired. In earlier years, CalPERS was very strong with good investments that had kept the costs low for members. However, several years ago, rates increased after poor investments and the economic crisis of 2008. There is no other viable retirement system available to agencies in California although steps were taken with pension reform that addressed issues for all employees hired since reform. Agencies need to offer a competitive pension system to be competitive in hiring and retention of qualified employees. CalPERS is still the best option available.

8. Can the CalPERS retirement system be canceled?

California cities have contractual obligations with CalPERS. The City of Scotts Valley would have to “buy out” its contractual obligation at a cost of tens of millions of dollars, which could feasibly bankrupt the City.

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1. What does the City collect in property tax?

The City receives a very low percentage of the property taxes collected in Scotts Valley.  The City’s portion is about 6.5%, which means that 93.5% goes elsewhere.  For every dollar paid in property tax, the city receives 6.5 cents.  A tax bill of $5,000, for instance, provides $325 to the City.

In total, the City receives $1.5 million annually from the total $23 million in property taxes collected in Scotts Valley.

2. What do other cities collect in property taxes?

The statewide average is 11.3%. Locally, the city of Santa Cruz receives 16%, Watsonville receives 13%, the County, 13%, and Capitola, 7.5%

3. Why does Scotts Valley only collect 6.5%? Can this be changed?

The local allocation of property taxes was set by Proposition 13 and a follow-up 1979 state law.  That law fixed local allocations at what the cities, schools and districts were receiving at the time.  Scotts Valley was a relatively new city in 1979 (13 years old) with a population of about 6,800, few services and light debt load. As a result, the Scotts Valley founders set up the city to be a low-tax city.  In recent years, the City sued to increase its property tax allocation to get to the current rate of 6.5%. Now, despite the city’s population growth and changes in services and financial structure, Scotts Valley is fixed at this low level.  

Changing the property tax allocation would require a California Constitutional Amendment or a change in state law.  Attempts to do so have been unsuccessful as any increase in one city’s allocation means there is a trade-off with a corresponding decline to another entity’s allocation. As the tax patterns have been set for over 30 years, any “losing” community and its elected representatives at the local and state levels have and would strongly oppose the change. Any changes to the tax allocation structure would require a 2/3 vote in the Legislature. It is generally accepted that the property tax allocation is highly unlikely to change.

There have been legal challenges to Proposition 13 but in 1992, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of Proposition 13.

4. Where does the rest of the Property Tax go?

The 93.5% of property taxes that Scotts Valley doesn’t receive goes to support local schools (38%), the County (23%), fire district (16%), Cabrillo College (6%), water district (4%), county-library system (3%) and county-school service (3%).

5. How much is collected in hotel tax and how does this compare?

Scotts Valley collects about 1/5 of its General Fund budget from hotel taxes. The current rate is 11%, which matches the rate in Santa Cruz and the County.  Capitola and Watsonville’s hotel tax rate is 12%.

6. What about a parcel tax?

A parcel tax is special tax on properties based on either a flat per-parcel rate or a variable rate.  Only property owners in the City would pay a parcel tax. With a sales tax, anyone who purchases goods in the City of Scotts Valley pay, and thereby contribute to support general city services, police, streets, sidewalks, parks, that they benefit from.

7. What is the utility users tax and how does this compare?

The utility users tax, or UUT, is a tax on utility services.  In Scotts Valley, the UUT is applied only to gas and electric utilities, and at a rate of 4%.  This tax provides 6% of the City’s total budget, about $770,000.

In contrast, in Santa Cruz, the UUT rate is 8.5% and applies to a broader scope of utilities, including gas, electric, sewer, water, garbage and some communications. This tax raises $12 million for Santa Cruz. In Watsonville, the rate is 6% and raises about $4 million.  The County and Capitola have no UUT in place.

8. How do Scotts Valley's taxes compare with neighboring cities?

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1. Can I rent the Family BBQ Area?

Yes, please visit our Facility Rental Page for more information.

2. Are bounce houses allowed?

No.

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1. Is there a fee to enter the park?

Lodato Park is free of charge.

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1. How do I find out what the zoning district is for a specific parcel?

View the zoning map (PDF).

2. How can I determine what uses are allowed in a particular zoning district?

View the City’s Municipal Code and indicate which zoning district you want to review in the search box.

3. What is the Planning Department Phone Number?

The Planning Department's phone number is 831-440-5630.

4. What are the Planning Department hours?

The Planning Department's walk-in hours are Tuesday and Thursday, 8 a.m. to Noon. 

5. How do I begin the permit process?

Visit the Planning and Building Departments during counter hours so that staff may assist you with zoning information, permitted uses, and details regarding requirements on your plans and the number of copies to submit.

6. How long does the permit process take?

It depends on the type of application and project. 

• Tree removal applications generally do not take more than 28 days and may take less depending upon the circumstances. 
• Design Review, Use Permits, and other types of applications have a standard 30 day review period by various departments.

The applicant is then notified if the project has been deemed complete. Scheduling the project before the Planning Commission is determined upon agenda availability and type of environmental review required. Typically, there are two Planning Commission meetings held each month.

7. Do I need a tree removal permit?

No

No, if the tree is:

• A Monterey Pine infected with pitch canker (arborist report required)
• A Blue Gum Eucalyptus
• A Bay Laurel growing under an established oak tree
• An Acacia
• An Oak infected with Phytopthera Fungus (arborist report required).

For more information on this disease please visit the Berkeley website or UC Davis website.

Yes

Yes, if the tree is:

• Located within five feet of a public right-of-way or street no matter what size
• A single trunk tree greater than or equal to 13 inches diameter (40 inches circumference) measured four feet above ground
• A single trunk oak tree and is greater than or equal to an 8 inch diameter (25 inch circumference)
• Any multi trunk oak tree with any trunk greater than or equal to 4 inches diameter (12 inch circumference)
• Any tree greater than or equal to 8 inch diameter (25 inch circumference) if located within 20 feet of a moderate slope (greater than 20% slope)
• Any multi trunk tree greater than or equal to 8 inch diameter (25 inch circumference)
• Any size tree required as part of a permit approved by the Planning Department, Planning Commission, or City Council, or any required replacement trees for an unlawfully removed tree
• Any Heritage Tree, as specified in Resolution No. 1697.1, Exhibit A (adopted 4/20/05)

8. How do I obtain a Use Permit, Design Review, Variance Permit, Land Division Permit, or Rezoning Permit?

Call or visit the Planning Department to obtain a permit application. Complete the application, including all pertinent data, and return it to the Planning Department during counter hours. The City will notify the applicant within 30 days if additional information is required to process the application.

Once the application is deemed complete the appropriate hearings will be scheduled. For Use Permit, Design Review, and Variance Permits, one hearing before the Planning Commission is required. Once the Planning Commission approves the application, there is a 10 day appeal period in which the application could be appealed to the City Council. If appeal in not submitted, then the application is deemed approved. For Land Division or Rezoning Permits, hearings before the Planning Commission and the City Council are required.

9. How do I get a copy of an assessor's parcel map?

The City has an assessor's parcel book which shows each lot within the city. You may visit the Planning Department during counter hours to get a copy of the assessor's parcel map. You may also visit the County of Santa Cruz Mapping website, search for your parcel information, and then click on the assessor's map link.

10. Can I have a guest cottage or second dwelling unit?

Yes, if the land area that the unit is placed on does not have an average slope greater than 20% and it is served by a sanitary sewer system.

• A guest cottage may not exceed 600 square feet in size, and must not have a kitchen facility. A deed restriction is required to be placed on the title of the property prohibiting a secondary dwelling unit. A building permit is required to establish a guest cottage.
• A secondary dwelling unit may not exceed 800 square feet in habitable area (excluding garages, decks, and porches) and must be located on a lot that is 10,000 square feet or greater. A kitchen facility is permitted in a secondary dwelling unit. A building permit is required to establish a secondary dwelling unit.

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1. Traffic Cameras - What are the cameras for?

The new overhead cameras you see at the Mount Hermon Road/Scotts Valley Drive/Whispering Pines Road intersection are solely for detecting the presence of vehicles in order to provide the best distribution of green time based on traffic demand. They are cost-effective replacements for in-ground induction loops that are cut into the pavement.

The cameras are not focused the driver, but rather the vehicle as it moves towards the intersection. As the vehicle enters defined areas or "zones" within the camera's field of view, the camera's processor detects a change in the "zone."  An output is sent to the traffic signal's controller (the computerized "brain" housed in a nearby metallic cabinet controlling the intersection's timing) that says a vehicle is requesting green time for its direction.

2. Traffic Cameras - Who is watching me through these cameras?

There is no constant surveillance or archiving of these images. The camera view is a fixed focus, fixed location image (there is no zooming or moving the cameras once they are installed). The image is analyzed by the camera processor ONLY for the simple presence of vehicles within defined areas or "zones." The cameras are not equipped to read license plates or distinguish facial features.

3. Traffic Cameras - How long are the videos kept?

The cameras to not record and store video.  The data from the camera is analyzed by the processor in real-time.

4. Traffic Cameras - Why go through the extra expense of installing cameras?

Previously, the primary method of vehicle detection was done by cutting the pavement a few inches and installing a wire "loop" just below the surface.

These in-ground loops have both near-term and long-term costs. The labor for a work crew to saw-cut pavement while shutting down that lane of traffic, and the cost of material are immediate costs. The saw cutting of the pavement weakens its strength, resulting in shorter service life and more maintenance costs for pavement repair. When in-ground loops fail, the entire loop must be recut into the pavement again. Video cameras give us low cost options to change the detection boxes do to construction or lane shifts, while pavement loops do not.

Video detection cameras, like most electronics, have seen their costs steadily drop since the technology was first introduced. Installation is done above the surface of the road, and usually away from the flow of traffic. The pavement remains undisturbed and is capable of lasting longer. When cameras or processors fail, they are simply and quickly replaced without a great disturbance in traffic flow.

5. Bikes - What does the green mean?

Green pavement highlights areas where bicycles and cars cross paths. The green pavement alerts both drivers and bicyclists to pay extra attention.

6. Bikes - What is a bike box?

A bike box is a designated area at the front of a traffic lane at a signalized intersection that places the bicyclist ahead of queuing motor vehicle traffic during the red signal phase. The bike box increases visibility of bicyclists at intersections (the most common location for bicycle collisions).

It is also intended to prevent conflict between bicyclists and motorists continuing in different directions. For example, a bicyclist traveling straight through an intersection should be centered in the traffic lane giving a right turning motorist room to turn safely next to them. Likewise, a bicyclist turning left from a lane that can either turn left or go straight should be position in the center of the traffic lane in front of motor vehicles intending to travel straight so that their paths do not cross.

7. Bikes - How do I use a bike box?

How to Use a Bike Box (educational video)

How to Use When Biking: When the light is red, use the bike lane to proceed to the front of the intersection and move into the bike box. Stop before the crosswalk and position yourself directly in front of waiting automobiles. When the light turns green, move through the intersection ahead of traffic. Use hand signals to tell drivers which way you’re turning, and move into the bike lane or to the right side of the street once you have passed through the intersection.

The bike box should only be used when the light is yellow or red. If you approach the intersection when the light is green, use the bike lane to approach the intersection and proceed normally.

How to Use When Driving:  If you approach the intersection and the light is yellow or red, stop at the white stop line behind the green bike box. Keep the bike box clear to allow cyclists to use it. If people on bikes are in front of you in the bike box, allow them to travel first through the intersection.

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1. How much does it cost to hook up to the sewer system?

The cost of construction varies with each home depending on how complicated re-plumbing the house is and how far the trench and pipe must be extended to reach the City sewer main. Underground contractors listed in the yellow pages will often give free quotes for this kind of work. Additional to the construction costs are hookup fees of approximately $6,137.

2. Why is the hook-up fee so expensive?

The hook-up fee pays for your share of the construction costs of building the multi-million dollar sewage treatment plant on Lundy Lane. The sewer treatment plant construction was extremely expensive to enable the plant to clean the wastewater to state standards and allow it to be pumped and discharged into the waters of the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary.

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1. What kind of permit do I need to work in the street in front of my house or in my driveway approach?

An encroachment permit is needed for any work done by private citizens within the right-of-way of the city of Scotts Valley. The permit ensures that any construction done in or next to a street is done according to adopted construction standards. The permit fee pays for an inspector to ensure that these improvements are built to a high standard and that during construction, safe traffic control is enforced.

2. How do I get a pothole fixed in front of my house?

City maintenance crews do not have the occasion to travel many of the City's side streets on a regular basis. If you have a pothole in front of your house, the City crews are most likely not aware of it. Let us know of its existence and we will correct the problem as soon as possible by calling us at 831-438-5854. 

3. Do I live on a public or private street?

This list of public and private streets is organized by alphabetical order. The referenced quadrants can be found in the map below.

This is a map of public and private streets.

Green streets are public, whereas red streets are private. Some streets are a combination; to determine which section is which, check the attached map.

4. How do I get a speed bump installed on my street?

The City Council adopted a criteria to be met prior to considering installation of a speed bump. This criteria includes a petition signed by at least 60% of the neighbors in the area, as well as evidence of a speeding problem, and an appropriate safe place for construction.

5. How do I get a burned out street light bulb replaced?

Burned out street light bulbs on Mount Hermon Road and Scotts Valley Drive are replaced by the City. Residential street lights are maintained by PG&E. Residents with lights out in their neighborhood should report the outage to the Public Works Department at 831-438-5854. It is very helpful to include the street light number that is posted on the light standard when calling in the problem.

6. How do I get a malfunctioning traffic light repaired?

The City of Scotts Valley Maintenance Department arranges for the maintenance of most of the signal lights in the City. A call to 831-438-5854 will prompt a repair order to the appropriate maintenance organization. Several of the traffic signals next to Highway 17 on- and off-ramps are owned and maintained by Caltrans. They are responsible for the maintenance and timing of these signals. Again, a call to us will prompt a call to Caltrans for service.

7. Where are your offices located?

The Public Works Department is at a separate location from City Hall. Our engineering and maintenance departments are located at the corporation yard at 701 Lundy Lane which is accessed off of Whispering Pines Drive.

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1. Does the City provide water services?

The City of Scotts Valley is not a full service city in that the City provides neither fire service nor water service. A separate water district with its own elected board of directors, with complete wells, maintenance crews, etc., provides water to City residents as well as to many people outside the limits of the City of Scotts Valley. The Scotts Valley Water District can be reached at 831-438-2363. Water service to portions of the Whispering Pines area and Mount Hermon Road is provided by the San Lorenzo Valley Water District and they can be reached at 831-338-2152.

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1. Will we transport to city activities?

Yes. For a fee, we will drive your child to other Recreation Division activities in city vehicles.

2. Will I be charged for a field trip if my child was signed up but could not attend?

If we can’t find a replacement to fill your child’s spot, yes you will still be charged.

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1. How does a Tobacco Retailer License (TRL) work?

Tobacco retailers in the City of Scotts Valley are required to submit an application for a tobacco retail license and meet certain requirements of the ordinance in order to obtain and maintain the license.

2. Am I a tobacco retailer?

A tobacco retailer means any person who sells, offers for sale, or does or offers to exchange for any form of consideration, tobacco, tobacco products, or tobacco paraphernalia. “Tobacco retailing” shall mean the doing of any of these things. This definition is without regard to the quantity sold, offered for sale, exchanged, or offered for exchange.

3. What are tobacco products?

Tobacco product means: 

1. Any product containing, made, or derived from tobacco or nicotine that is intended for human consumption, whether smoked, heated, chewed, absorbed, dissolved, inhaled, snorted, sniffed, or ingested by any other means, including, but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, little cigars, chewing tobacco, pipe tobacco, and snuff
2. Any electronic smoking device that can be used to deliver an inhaled dose of nicotine or other substances, including any component, part or accessory of such a device, whether or not sold separately. “Electronic smoking device” includes any such device, whether manufactured, distributed, marketed or sold as an electronic cigarette, an electronic cigar, an electronic cigarillo, an electronic pipe, an electronic hookah, or any other product name or descriptor

4. What is tobacco paraphernalia?

Tobacco paraphernalia includes cigarette papers or wrappers, pipes, holders of smoking materials of all types, cigarette rolling machines, and any other item designed for the consumption, use or preparation of tobacco products.

5. What is a significant tobacco retailer?

Significant tobacco retailer means any tobacco retailer for which the principal or core business is selling tobacco products, tobacco paraphernalia, or both, as evidenced by the fact that 

1. 20 percent or more of floor or display area is devoted to tobacco products, tobacco paraphernalia, or both
2. 67 percent or more of gross sales receipts are derived from tobacco products, tobacco paraphernalia, or both
3. 50 percent or more of completed sales transactions include tobacco products or tobacco paraphernalia

After the effective date of this ordinance, no license shall be issued to a significant tobacco retailer at any location, measured from the nearest property line, that is within one thousand feet of a school, or 500 feet of a park, or other business or institution whose primary business or purpose is the instruction or education of children or those under the age of 18. Examples of such places include, but are not limited to, tutoring centers, child care centers, recreational facilities and gyms.

6. What is the minimum sale age for tobacco products?

Retailers can sell tobacco products and paraphernalia only to individuals who are at least 21 years old. There is one exception: the minimum sale age remains 18 for active duty military personnel with an identification card (ID) issued by the United States Armed Forces.

7. I already have a state tobacco license issued by the California State Board of Equalization. Why do I need a tobacco license from the City?

The tobacco license issued by the California State Board of Equalization is meant to curb tobacco tax fraud and the counterfeiting of tobacco products. That license does not preempt local jurisdiction from adopting local tobacco licenses. On December 16, 2015 the Scotts Valley City Council adopted an ordinance adding Chapter 5.22 to the City code relating to the licensing of tobacco retailers. The ordinance promotes responsible tobacco retailing and compliance with federal, state and local tobacco ‐ related laws, especially those that prohibit the sale or distribution of tobacco products to minors.

To legally sell tobacco products in the City of Scotts Valley, you will need a valid state tobacco license and a City tobacco license. This requirement is in effect as of June 15th, 2017.

8. What does the City’s tobacco license require?

The license requires that tobacco retailers comply with federal, state and local tobacco ‐ related laws, including provisions of the City's tobacco license. Information about the City's tobacco license is provided in this FAQ and can also be found in Chapter 5.22 "Tobacco Retailer Licenses" and Chapter 8.25 "Regulation of Tobacco and Electronic Cigarettes Advertising and Sales" of the Scotts Valley City Code Ordinance Number 188. Educational materials regarding state and federal tobacco laws can be obtained by contacting the Scotts Valley Police Department at 831-440‐5670.

9. How much is the license?

At this time there is no fee.

10. How long is the license effective?

The term of the license is one (1) year beginning each fiscal year on July 1st and ending on June 30th of the same fiscal year.

11. When must I re-apply for a license?

Each tobacco retailer needs to apply for renewal of the tobacco retailing license (TRL) no later than thirty (30) days before the expiration date of the TRL.

12. Is my Tobacco Retail License transferable if I sell my business or pass it down to a family member?

No, tobacco retailers cannot transfer their license from one person to another or from one location to another. Whenever a new person obtains ownership in a business for which a tobacco retailer license has been issued, a new tobacco retailer license is required.

13. Can I sell tobacco from a mobile location such as a truck or car?

No, mobile vending (by persons on foot or from vehicles) is prohibited. Pushcart vendors, food trucks, foot peddlers, etc. cannot sell tobacco products.

14. Will there be inspections?

Yes. Compliance checks will be conducted by the Scotts Valley Police Department to see if stores are selling to those under the age of 21.

15. What will happen if I am cited for a license violation during an inspection?

Violations of the license are subject to monetary fines, suspension and / or revocation of the license.

16. What if I no longer want to sell tobacco products?

Please notify the Scotts Valley Police Department at 831‐440‐5670.

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1. Is fishing allowed at Vern Hart?

Fishing of any kind is not allowed at Vern Hart at this time.

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1. Is there a Homework Club?

Yes. During after school recreation, kids have an opportunity to work on their homework.

2. Do we have Transportation?

Yes. For a fee we will drive your child to other Recreation Division activities.

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1. What is your contact address and phone numbers?

The Wastewater Treatment Plant is located at: 

700 Lundy Lane

Scotts Valley, CA 95066

Phone: 831-438-0732

Fax: 831-438-7218

We are located near Public Works corporation yard. 

2. Where do I call for questions regarding my sewer bill?

Call Amanda Long at 831-440-5612 regarding you sewer bill.

3. How much water is treated each day?

Almost one million gallons (950,000 gallons) are treated daily at the Waste Water Treatment Plant.

4. What happens to the water after it is treated?

During the dry weather months most of the water is recycled and used for irrigation at local parks, schools, and on roadway medians. In the winter months the water is discharged into the Monterey Bay.

5. Why does it smell sometimes and not other times?

Most of the time the wastewater treatment process can take place and not create any foul odors. However, given the nature of the business it is inevitable that from time to time foul odors will occur. It doesn't happen very often, but when it does the staff at the plant can usually determine the cause and take corrective action.

6. Does the water coming into the plant increase when it rains?

Yes, but not very much. The treatment plant only treats only water that goes down the drain in houses and businesses. All the rainwater flows into the storm drains that you see on the side of the road. That rainwater flows into the local creeks and eventually into the ocean.

It is very important not to let any garbage, used motor oil, or even soapy water from washing cars enter the storm drains because it will pollute our waterways.

7. I need to locate the nearest sewer line to my house and find my sewer lateral.

Give us a call at 831-438-0732 and we'll do our best to help.

8. How do I set up a tour of the Wastewater Treatment Plant?

Tours are encouraged and given frequently. Give us a call at 831-438-0732 to set up a tour.

9. Is the Waste Water Treatment Plant located at Public Works corporation yard?

No, Public Works and Engineering is located next door in the buildings at 701 Lundy Lane.

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1. When is the League held?

Games begin early January and go to late February early March.

2. Are volunteer coaches needed?

Yes! Our league is run by volunteer coaches.

3. How are the teams made?

Teams are drawn randomly by grade. Siblings our placed on the same team if in same league.