San Leandro, CA Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)

Section 5-1-200 broadly bans encroaching, altering, obstructing, excavating, or placing any fixture, pipeline, or structure within a City street without a permit, and separately blocks small cell wireless facility encroachments unless the applicant proves the property owner's consent. Applicants file with the Public Works Director under § 5-1-205, supplying maps, plats, or diagrams under § 5-1-210 and any required consent from other public agencies under § 5-1-215. Section 5-1-220 gives the Director 30 working days to approve, conditionally approve, or deny the application, with written reasons required for a denial.

Fees are set by City Council resolution under § 5-1-225, and public agencies pay other charges but not the permit fee itself. Before issuance, § 5-1-230 requires a cash deposit, certified check, or surety bond sized to cover the cost of restoring the street, and the Director can demand an additional deposit later under § 5-1-235 if the original proves insufficient. Permittees must finish authorized work within 90 days of issuance or the permit becomes void under § 5-1-255, though the Director may grant a written extension for good cause.

Permits are non-transferable under § 5-1-270, and holding a building, electrical, or other permit for the same activity does not itself authorize the encroachment under § 5-1-275. The Director can revoke a permit under § 5-1-600 for a Chapter violation or an imminent threat to public health and safety, and a denial or revocation can be appealed to the City Manager under Title I, Chapter 9.