Code Enforcement

Code Enforcement works to promote and maintain a safe and desirable living and working environment on all private properties around the City. Code Enforcement accomplishes this by enforcing the City’s Municipal Codes on private property and seeks voluntary compliance with the assistance from property owners, businesses and tenants in understanding City rules and regulations. 

Code Enforcement handles violations for the City of San Mateo only. 

Process to file a complaint: 

Step 1 – Please ensure the address you are reporting are on private property and within the City of San Mateo limits. 

Step 2 – Please check if the property already has an open case and / or a permit filed by using the “Customer Self-Service Portal/Property information search.”.  

Step 3 – Report a Code Violation 

Code Enforcement handles violations for the City of San Mateo only.  

Report a Code Violation Online
Report a Code ViolationCode Enforcement handles violations for the City of San Mateo only.

Please use our Report a Code Violation online form, or call (650) 522-7150, Español (650) 522-7166 to report any of the following:

  • Health and Safety issues - no hot water, no heat, mold, rodents/pests, etc. 
  • Inoperable vehicles on private property, trash, weeds, or storage in public view 
  • Overgrown hedges, weeds, or bushes on sidewalk/street or blocking visibility
  • Unpermitted construction

Click to report a code violation using our online form

View Open Cases and Current Permits
Visit our Customer Self-Service (CSS) Portal to view the status of reported Code Enforcement violations, current permits issued, and much more!
Code Enforcement Hours and Contact Information
Appointments are highly encouraged as staff are often working out in the field.

Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday: 8:00am – 12:00pm, 1:00pm – 4:30pm
Tuesday and Friday: 8:00am – 12:00pm (Afternoon by appointment only)

Phone: (650) 522-7150  Español (650) 522-7166

  1. Relocation Services
  2. Landlord and Tenant Resources
  3. Mediation Services
  4. Other Resources

Relocation Services

The City of San Mateo adopted the Tenant Relocation ordinance in June of 2019 to allow Code Enforcement to inspect and enforce the current conditions of the property to ensure the safety of the tenants from substandard and immediate life-safety conditions. When Code Enforcement confirms the conditions of the property are substandard and/or life-threatening to the occupants, the ordinance requires the property owner to temporarily or permanently relocate the tenants.

For more information on the Relocation Ordinance - Chapter 7.50 Property Owner Obligations with Respect to Tenants Displaced from Unsafe or Substandard Units.