Berkeley requires encroachment permits for new driveway curb cuts and prohibits parking that blocks any public or private driveway under CVC 22500(e).
Berkeley Municipal Code Title 16 (Streets and Sidewalks) requires a driveway encroachment permit from Public Works for any new curb cut or modification of existing driveway aprons. Applications must include site plans showing driveway width (typically 10-20 feet for residential), sight distance clearance, and ADA-compliant sidewalk transitions. The city charges permit fees plus construction inspection costs. Blocking any driveway public or private is prohibited under California Vehicle Code 22500(e) and BMC 14.40, subject to immediate towing. Homeowners may paint their curbs red only with approval through the Curb Paint Program; unauthorized red curbs are unenforceable. Driveways must maintain positive drainage and cannot direct runoff onto neighboring properties per state Civil Code.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how other cities in Alameda County handle driveway rules.
See how Berkeley's driveway rules rules stack up against other locations.
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