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1. Do I need a permit for what I am wanting to do?

If you are asking yourself this question, then the answer is most likely yes.

2. How do I request an inspection?

To request an inspection, utilize our 24-hour inspection request line at (951) 765-2428. Inspections left on that recorder by 3:00 pm will be inspected the following business day. ETrakIt

3. What time will my inspection be?

Inspections are performed between 7:30 am and 5:30 pm, Monday through Friday. Appointment times are not given.

4. What do I need to do to get ready for my inspection?

The City of Hemet issued job/inspection card, approved plans and access to the area of inspection needs to be provided. City of Hemet inspectors will not go into an occupied or unoccupied home without another adult present. For further information, please refer to Inspection Handout (128).

5. How long is my permit good for?

A demolition permit is good for only 60 days. All other permits, unless specifically specified, are good for 180 days from the issuance date. Except for demolition permits, if an inspection is performed and approved by a City of Hemet inspector ,on an active permit, the counting of the 180 days resets from the date of inspection. For example, your permit is obtained on July 1, 2011. You obtain and pass a footing inspection on November 15, 2011. Your permit will then expire on May 14, 2012. If subsequent inspections are passed afterwards, the same example applies.

6. What if I can’t get me permit inspected within the allotted 180 days?

The Building Official, at his own discretion, can approve the extension of a building permit. If the permit is NOT expired, the applicant can submit a request in writing explaining the circumstances that have delayed the project for review and consideration by the Building Official. After his review, the applicant will be advised of the determination. However, please be advised that the Building Official can only grant one extension.

7. I’m a homeowner, what do I need to have to bring to obtain a building permit?

To be authorized to obtain a permit, you will need to bring in a copy of a grant deed with your name listed as an owner and a copy of your current driver’s license. If you are sending another person to pull the permit on your behalf, you will need to provide to that person a notarized letter giving them authorization to do so. This letter must be brought in along with the previously mentioned items. For detailed information on what permit documents you need, please refer to our Informational Handouts or our Plan Check Information for your specific type of project.

8. I’m a Contractor, what do I need to have to obtain a building permit?

To obtain a permit as a Contractor, you must have a valid California Contractors State License, a City of Hemet Business License, and if not the “owner” of the license, a notarized authorization letter from the contractor giving you that permission.

9. Where can I get these “HERS” or energy compliance forms?

The forms are provided from the California Energy Commission. There are three (3) different groups of forms that may be required. The first type of form may include a “1” in the numbering sequence, ie. CF1R, these forms can be obtained http://www.energy.ca.gov/title24/2008standards/residential_manual.html#forms. The second type of form may include a “HERS” in the numbering sequence. This form can only be obtained by a HERS tester. Once this third-party inspector inspects the specified work, it will be provided to you. The third type of form is completed by the installer of the energy compliant feature and must be installed by the person that did the work. Those forms can be found here http://www.energy.ca.gov/title24/2008standards/residential_manual.html#forms

10. What is a final request form?

A final request form is a form that must be signed by a variety of departments and other agencies. This form is utilized to ensure all departments and agencies requirements are satisfied before you are granted final occupancy. The form is a 3-part form and must be obtained from our office or from your building inspector. Most of the signatures can be obtained at the City of Hemet’s City Hall, however, any others that can not are provided with a phone and address as to where they can be reached at.

11. Will I get my inspection today? "Am I on the list"

The City of Hemet has a program that can allow you to verify what day your inspection is scheduled for. There are three (3) ways to access the site. The first is from our Home Page under the category under "Inspection Request or Status". The second is by going to https://crwweb.cityofhemet.org/Etrakit2/Index.aspx. Both will take you to the appropriate program. In the event that you need assistance in navigating that site, please see our guide "How to Check Status of My Inspection". The third is going directly to ETrakIt

12. How do I verify if I am in the City of Hemet's jurisdiction?

The City of Hemet's jurisdiction only contains address that have 3 or 4 digits in the address. For example 445 E. Florida Avenue or 1111 N. Smith Street. If your address contains 5 (five) digits with a Hemet mailing address, you will need to contact Riverside County for your permitting needs. Riverside County Permit Information.

13. How late do you issue permits?

Permits can be issued up until 5:00pm. If the processing of your permit extends past 5:00pm, you will need to return in the morning to complete the process and you will not be able to schedule an inspection for that day. The cut-off of inspection requests is 3:00pm.

14. What time do the inspectors leave in the morning?

The inspectors generally leave the office by 8:30am and return around 5:00pm.

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1. What is a business license?

A business license is a business tax paid to the City in order to conduct business legally within the City limits. The purpose of the license is to generate revenue for the City of Hemet to provide police and fire protection, fire and crime prevention and many other community services.

2. Who needs a business license?

Per the City of Hemet Business License Ordinance #1158 Section 18-45,
all businesses operating in the City of Hemet are required to have a business license, this includes businesses which operate from a home.

A City Business License is required in each city where you conduct business and at each location within the city

3. When do I obtain a City business license?

A license must be obtained prior to the start of your business. Obtaining your license prior to conducting business will allow you to avoid penalties that may be incurred.

4. Where do I obtain a business license?

The Business License Department is located at 445 E Florida Ave Hemet CA 92544

5. Is a business license all I need to conduct business legally?

The issuance of a business license does not entitle the license holder to carry on any business which is otherwise prohibited. It may be necessary for you to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy, a Conditional Use Permit and/or any other City, State, or Federal approvals before your business may operate.

6. When will my license expire and how do I renew it?

All City of Hemet Business Licenses expire on December 31st each year. · Licenses must be renewed each year - Failure to renew will result in penalties

7. Do I need a seller's permit?

Any sales of tangible items require a sellers permit from the California State Board of Equalization (951)680-6400 or visit their web site http://www.boe.ca.gov
Located at 3737 Main St. 10thFloor #1000, Riverside CA 92506

If you already have a valid sellers permit but it is not registered for your new business, you must contact the State Board of Equalization regarding changes and/or additions

8. Do I need a fictitious name or DBA?

California law requires that every person who regularly transacts business for profit under a fictitious name, must file and publish a Fictitious Name Statement
To file a statement please contact the Riverside County Clerk’s office at (951) 766-2500 or visit their http://riverside.asrclkrec.com/SVfbn.asp websit.

County Clerk’s office is located at 880 N State St, Suite B6, Hemet, CA, their phone # is (951) 766-2500.

9. When do I pay for my license?

Your completed Business License Application and applicable fees must be received by the Business License Department before your license will be issued. Once you pay, you will receive a temporary license. Generally your license will be mailed within 2 weeks.

10. When will I receive my business license?

When you have met all requirements and paid your fees, you will receive a temporary business license. Generally, your license will be mailed to you within 2 weeks.

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1. How do I speak at a City Council meeting?

Prior to the start of the meeting, complete a speaker slip, which can be found at the city clerk's desk. If you are speaking on an agendized item, please note the item number. You will be called when that item is discussed. If you are speaking on an item that is not on the agenda, you will be called to speak under "Communications from the Public." You will have three minutes to address the council. State law prohibits the City Council from taking action on any item not on the agenda.

2. How do I contact the Riverside County Courthouse in Hemet?

If you have questions regarding traffic tickets, small claims, or family law you can contact the Riverside Superior Court at (951) 306-3561.

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1. When does the City Council meet?

Regular City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month in the City Council Chambers located at 450 East Latham Avenue beginning at 7:00 p.m.

2. Our business is holding a special event. How can we invite the mayor and City Council to participate and/or recognize our company?

To invite the mayor and City Council to participate in an upcoming special event, please contact the Administration Department by calling (951) 765-2301. You may also send the request via email.

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1. If I file a complaint, will my information remain anonymous?

Yes. Although your name, address, and phone number are required on the complaint form, your personal information will not be released to the public, unless court-ordered by subpoena, under state law. Click to download our Complaint Form.

2. Do I need a permit for a yard sale?

Yes. A permit is required for all residential yard sales, garage sales, or estate sales. The cost of the permit is $20.00. Each permit is valid for up to 3 consecutive days. You must wait 30 calendar days before holding another sale. No more than 4 yard sales per calendar year will be allowed at the same address. 

Click here for Yard Sale Regulations.

Click here for Submittal Options and Yard Sale Permit form.

3. What types of animals and/or how many animals may I have?

Per Hemet Municipal Code Sec 90-77 you may have up to 3 dogs and/or 4 cats, over the age of 4 months. The types and quantity of other animals are determined by the zoning and size of your property per the Animal Regulations and Keeping Requirements Matrix per Hemet Municipal Code Sec 90-77 (g). For questions regarding specific zoning of an area or animal regulations and keeping requirements, please contact the Planning Division at 951-765-2375 or PlanStaff@hemetca.gov for further information.

4. What if my neighbor’s animal makes excessive noise or I suspect an animal is being abused?

The Ramona Humane Society provides animal control services for the City of Hemet. For assistance please contact Ramona Humane Society Animal Control Services at 951-487-6565 or visit Ramona Humane Society for additional information. 

5. Does the City have a registration program for vacant, abandoned, or foreclosed property?

Yes. Article XI of Chapter 14 of the Hemet Municipal Code addresses the maintenance, security, and rehabilitation of abandoned or vacant properties. A beneficiary, or beneficiary’s agent shall register a property with the City’s Community Development staff, on forms provided by the city, and pay the appropriate registration fee. 

Click here for the Vacant / Foreclosed Property Registration Packet.

6. Where can I park my vehicle for sale?

Vehicles may only be displayed for sale on private residential property, on a paved driveway.

7. Where can I park my commercial vehicle?

No commercial vehicle shall be parked on any downtown or residential-zoned street, or residential-zoned property or unless for the purposes of loading or unloading. Trailers shall not be disconnected. No overnight street parking is allowed City wide per Hemet Municipal Code Section 78-107.

8. Can I park my inoperable vehicle on my driveway?

No. Inoperable, unlicensed, wrecked, or dismantled vehicle or vehicle parts may only be stored in an enclosed building (garage, shed, etc.). Vehicles must be capable of operating legally on the roadway in order to be parked outdoors.

9. Can a vehicle park on my front lawn?

No. Vehicles may not be parked on any front yard, lawn or unpaved area except during the time the vehicle is being washed, and once complete it must be moved to an appropriate location to park.

10. Can I park my large vehicle, trailer, or motorhome on my driveway?

Currently registered vehicles, including non-motorized vehicles between 22 and 40 feet in length, may be parked in the side or rear yard setback area when screened by six-foot high solid fencing. The parking area is not required to be paved, but the area shall be maintained free of weeds, junk and debris.

11. Are vehicles allowed to be parked on the street without moving for extended periods of time?

Vehicles may be parked in any one spot on the street for no more than 72 hours without moving. The vehicle must be operable, currently licenses/registered and parked legally. If a vehicle is found to have not moved or suspected to be inoperable for over 72 hours and is parked on the street, please call the Hemet Police Department to report the location, make, model, color and license plate of the vehicle. Hemet Police Department 951-765-2400. 

12. Who do I call to report trash/junk/debris that has been dumped in an unapproved area?

If the dump site is located in the gutter or on the sidewalk, please contact Public Works 951-765-3712. If the dump site is set back further onto a property/ in a vacant field, please contact Code Compliance at 951-765-2339 or codestaff@hemetca.gov.

13. I have a dispute with my neighbor such as the maintenance of fence or tree that borders our properties.

The City does not handle neighbor disputes or civil matters that do not violate codes adopted by the City. For example, fence repair or property line disputes, tree roots or branches encroaching onto private property and/or causing damage to a fence or structure. These types of situations are a private matter between two property owners, and the City has no jurisdiction. Residents are urged to establish good relationships with neighbors and work together to solve such problems.

14. I received a NOTICE OF VIOLATION, what does this mean?

The City has been made aware of a violation that is present at your property and the Notice of Violation is meant to advise you to correct the issue by the date listed at the bottom of the page. A Code Officer will conduct a follow up investigation on or after the Compliance date listed to verify if the violation has been corrected or not. If you have any questions or need an extension of time to correct the violation, please contact the Code Compliance Officer at the phone number listed at the bottom of the notice. 

15. I received an ADMINISTRATIVE CITATION, what does this mean?

The City has previously issued a Notice of Violation to the property owner and found that the violation has not been corrected within the time limit and now a citation with fee has been issued against you with a new follow-up investigation date. If the violation has not been corrected by the new follow-up date, additional citations may be issued by the Officer with increasing penalty fees. Please follow the directions on the back of the citation for directions on how to pay the fee or visit our Citation Processing Center.

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1. How can I get a copy of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR)?

Copies may be obtained from the Finance Department online.

2. How can I get a copy of the annual budget?

A copy may be obtained online.

3. How do I file a claim?

Claim forms are available upon request to the City Clerk's Office at (951) 765-2307or to City Hall at (951) 765-2300. Information Available here

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1. How do I apply for a job?

An official City of Hemet job application form and any required supplemental materials must be received by the Human Resources Department by the deadline time and date stated for the job title. Applications will only be accepted for a listed position. Faxed applications and postmarks will not be accepted. Job Opportunities

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1. Is the City of Hemet currently hiring?

Open positions for all City of Hemet departments are listed on our Job Opportunites page. If you click on the position title you will be directed to the job flyer that gives you a basic description of the position, minimum qualifications, and application instructions.

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1. How should I dispose of needles / sharps?

Place them in a secure rigid plastic jug type container (like a bleach or laundry detergent container). Then, tighten the lid and secure it with tape. Label the container "Sharps / Needles" or "Biohazard" and take it to a Riverside County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event or Sharps Kiosk. Visit www.rcwaste.org for more information and a schedule of collection events.

OR

You can also call CR&R (1-800-755-8112) for rates and information about their Sharps Mail Back Program.

2. How do I get rid of extra trash or items too big to fit into my container?

City of Hemet residents are allowed two free bulky item pick-ups annually. Contact CR&R at (800) 755-8112 to make arrangements.

3. How often are the recycling containers picked up?

Recycling containers are picked up weekly.

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1. How much is my first library card? How do I get one?

Your first library card is Free. Go to 2. How do I get a library card?

Library cards are free to California residents. Picture identification showing your name and current residency is required. Children under the age of 18 can receive a card with parental approval. Note: Parents must have a current picture ID. If your card is lost or stolen, please notify the library immediately so that we may prevent someone else from using it. Remember, you are responsible for all fines on your card.

3. Do you have the book titled....?

Our library catalog is available online. You may search for material and put it on hold with your library card and PIN. Once it becomes available for you, you will receive a phone call.

If we do not own your title, you may make a suggestion by clicking online

4. Do you have Internet access for the public?

Yes, library card holders get one time a day, up to one hour of free internet access per day. Additional time may be purchased at the library for a fee. We also have free wireless as well. Printing is available for a small fee.

5. Can I send a print job from home, my laptop or mobile phone and pick it up at the Library?

Yes you can. Visit www.printeron.net/library/hemet and follow these simple steps....
1. Enter your email address in "User Info" box.
2. Enter the web page address in the "Select Document" box, or click on Browse to fine the file you want to print on your computer.
3. Click on Printer Icon.
4. You will be sent print release code and bring it to the Library's reference desk. Printing is $.15 per page.

If you are printing an email, simply forward the email you want printed to
library-hemet@printspots.com and wait for a return email that contains your print release code.
You will be sent print release code and bring it to the Library's reference desk. Printing is $.15 per page.

6. Does the Library have a FAX machine available for the public to use?

Yes, the Library does have a Fax Machine. It is located near the copy machine in the front of the Library. To use it, you must have a credit or debit card. Then follow the simple instruction posted on the Machine.

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

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

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

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

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1. What hours are the City of Hemet parks open?

Most city parks open at 7:00 am and close at dusk. Simpson Park, Hemet's largest park, is subject to closure during fire season and hours change seasonally.

2. Can I take my dog to the park?

Dogs are not allowed in any parks, except for dog park facilities specifically designed for them. Currently, the city has one dog park at David R. Oltman Park, which is located on Cawston Avenue between Fruitvale Avenue and Eaton Avenue.

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1. How is my property zoned?

To look up zoning information an address and/or the assessor parcel number (APN) is needed. View more information.

2. What are setbacks?

A setback is the distance between a structure and the property line. View more information.

3. What can I do with my property?

It all depends on how the property is zoned. View more information.

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1. Where do I submit a question for a Bid or RFP?

All questions must be submitted through the Q & A Section on the Bid/RFP Advertisement page.

2. When can I expect payment on an invoice?

You will need to email your request to ap@cityofhemet.org.

3. I have a question on payment I received. Who can I contact?

You will need to email your request to ap@cityofhemet.org.

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1. What are the requirements for establishing utility service?

Single-Family Residential Accounts

All utility accounts are established by completion of a signed credit application and placement of any deposit that may be required. Contact the Utility Billing Department at 951-765-2350 to inquire if the address of service is within our district & how you can obtain the required documents.

Based upon the creditworthiness of an applicant, the Utility Billing Department may collect a deposit of not more than three times the estimated average of a bill. Such matters may determine creditworthiness; including but not necessarily limited to, prior history with the City, favorable letters of credit from other metered utility agencies (i.e., gas, electric or water) or home ownership. A favorable letter of credit must state the applicants name and history that reflects the past 12 consecutive months with zero delinquencies.

Multiple Dwellings and Non-Residential Accounts

All utility accounts are established by completion of a signed credit application and placement of a deposit. In addition, you may request to have authorized agents that may transact on your account, as well as, the option to have any shutoff notice faxed directly to you. Contact the Utility Billing Department at 951-765-2350 to inquire if the address of service is within our district & how you can obtain the required documents.

On all new multiple residential accounts, wherein more than one unit is serviced by a single meter and all non-residential accounts a deposit of not less than one and one-half times the average periodic bill is required.

2. When do I get my deposit back?

The City retains the deposit as long as the account is active (exceptions are made for existing residential single family accounts that have had zero late payments in the most recent 12 consecutive months of service). The deposit accrues interest and if not refunded previously, when the utility account is closed, the deposit is applied to the final bill and any other outstanding charges. A refund will be issued for the balance of any funds left over.

Refunds are issued twice a month and depending on the accounts last payment and closure dates it may take up to 2-4 weeks to receive the refund. Please be sure to call the Utility Billing Department at 951-765-2350 with your end of service request and forward address when closing your account.

3. Why is my bill so high?

Due to the City’s billing structure, accounts are billed every four weeks; therefore, the bill may seem high upon initial receipt. However, keep in mind that your bill includes base charges for water, sewer and storm drain fees that will be no less than $68.75 in your monthly billing period even before water is consumed. See our rate sheet for more details.

In some instance you may have an onsite water leak. There are several ways to check for a leak. One way is to check the flow indicator on your water meter. Make sure you have nothing inside using water when you perform this check. If the indicator is turning, then water is flowing through the meter. This could indicate a leak in the water service line between the meter and your home or building or it could indicate that water is being used inside the home or building. To determine if you have a leak in your water service line, close off the main valve to your home or building. If the indicator on the meter is turning, this is an indication that you have a leak in the pipe between your water meter and the main valve (though it could also mean that the main valve is not shutting off the water completely).

If the indicator on you water meter was turning but stopped when you shut the main valve, this indicates that something inside is using water. With the main valve open (and the indicator on the meter turning), turn off the valve to individual fixtures (toilets, sinks, etc.,) one at a time. Check the indicator each time you turn off a fixture valve to see if it stops turning. If it does, the last fixture turned off is the culprit!

Toilets can often be the cause of a water leak. Open the cover on the tank. If the water level is above the overflow tube, there is a problem. The water level should be approximately ½ inch or so below the top of the overflow pipe. Adjust the float level so that the water is turned off at that level. If the valve controlled by the float is leaking, it may need to be replaced.

Toilet leaks can also be due to a leak at the flapper valve that lets water flow into the toilet bowl. To test for this, put a drop or two of food coloring into the tank (not the bowl). Wait for about 10 minutes and see if the colored water shows up in the bowl. If it does, your flapper valve may need to be replaced.

If you have an irrigation system, check your settings. Customers have said that they have had more than one program on at the same time or had it running for too long of a time frame and didn’t realize it until they checked their program.

4. How can I pay my utility bill?

By Mail / In Person:
Payments in the form of cash, check, money order, Visa or MasterCard can be made directly to City of Hemet at:
445 E. Florida Ave.
Hemet, CA 92543

Drop box:
There is also a Utility Payment Drop located in the parking lot of City Hall at:
445 E. Florida Ave.
Hemet, CA 92543

Online:
This option allows you to pay your utility bill with a Visa or MasterCard. Sign up is quick and easy. Learn more about our online payment option!

Phone:
We can accept payments over the phone with a Visa or MasterCard by calling our Utility Billing Department at 951-765-2350.

Fax:
We can accept payment via fax by completing our credit card authorization form with your Visa or MasterCard information and fax to: 951-765-2336

Automatic ACH:
With this option, your bank account will be automatically debited on the due date for the amount of your current balance. If you would like to take part in this service, please complete our Authorization Agreement for Automatic ACH Payments and send it along with a voided check to the:

City of Hemet
Attn: Utility Billing Department
445 E. Florida Ave.
Hemet, CA 92543

5. What if I have an emergency after the Utility Billing Department is closed?

Normal business hours are 7:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Should a water or sewer related emergency occur after those hours, call the police’s non-emergency number at 951-765-2400 and they will dispatch the individual(s) on call.

6. Where is my main water valve in case I need to turn my water off?

Usually the main water valve is located where the water supply pipe enters your home or office. Normally it is a lever or dial that you twist or turn. In some cases, it may be near your clothes washer or hot water heater or may be located under the house in the crawl space. Be sure to locate and mark the main water valve before you need it. That way, you will be able to find and close it quickly should a water leak occur.

7. Are adjustments made for water leaks between my meter and my house or due to a leaky toilet?

Upon approval of the Utility Billing Supervisor and with proof of water leak repair, we may defer the water consumption portion of your bill across the future 3-4 billing periods. It’s important to understand that any water that passes through the meter is the responsibility of the customer.

8. When is my bill due?

You’re billed monthly (every four weeks) but because we bill different cycles each week, your bill may be generated and due at different times of the month. Your billing schedule is mailed out toward the end of the year for the year in advance and is always provided to new customers at the time of sign-up. However, they are always available with the Utility Billing Department.

9. Can I change the due date of my bill?

Unfortunately, no. The due date of the bill is determined by your service address.

10. Are there any water restrictions?

No. At this time the City of Hemet has no water restrictions.