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Animal Services

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1. How do I license my dog?

You must live in the CITY LIMITS of Morgan Hill. Licensing is done by mail or online through our partnership with PetData. For more information please go to www.petdata/cs/mgh or call 877-816-6810 More...

2. Does the city have a dog friendly park?

Yes. Community Park, located at 171 W. Edmundson Ave, has a separately fenced, dog play area, where dogs may be off leash.

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Building Division

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1. When do I need a permit for a fence? What will I need to provide?

View Residential Fences.

2. What do I need to build a deck?

Find information at Decks / Patio Covers / Sheds and Planning Department

3. Do I need a permit for a water heater replacement?

Yes, find out more at Water Heater Replacement.

4. Can I add on to my house?

a. Consult with the Planning Division to verify setbacks, height limitations and other building restrictions.
b. Find Building Division submittal requirements for an addition at Basic Requirements for Submitting Plans.

5. What will I need for a pool permit?

Find out at Residential Pools / Spas

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Business Assistance and Housing Services

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1. How can I obtain a Business License?

You may obtain a business license from the City's Finance Department.

For further information:
Phone: (408) 779-7237
Fax: (408) 778-1564

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Citizens Police Academy

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1. Why have an academy?

The Morgan Hill Police Department has a community oriented policing philosophy and believes this will provide a non-confrontational forum for interaction between the community and police employees. Our philosophy is "working in partnership with the community."

2. When will the next academy start?

We typically hold one session each fall. If you submit an interest application, we will notify you as soon as the session is scheduled.

3. How do I apply?

You may fill out the registration form online and you will be contacted once the next Citizens Police Academy is scheduled.

4. Who can attend?

Anyone who is over 18 years old may participate, but preferential registration will be given to residents of the City of Morgan Hill. Applicants are carefully screened, must be free of any felony convictions, convictions of certain misdemeanor crimes, sign confidentiality and waiver agreements, and successfully complete a background investigation check.

5. How much does it cost?

The Citizens Police Academy is free and City of Morgan Hill residents have priority registration.

6. Are there any physical restrictions?

No, all participants are welcome. Class members may choose to either watch or participate in some of the practical exercise.

7. What if I cannot attend all of the classes?

Participants must commit to attending to at least 11 out of the 12 classes. It is important to be present for all phases of the academy in order to get the full benefit of the experience.

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City Clerk

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1. How can I request a meeting Agenda or meeting Minutes?

You can access Agendas and Minutes by accessing the City Council page and selecting Agendas or Minutes. You may also contact the City Clerk's office at (408) 779-7259 for assistance. Find City Council Agendas and Minutes Here

2. Directions to City Hall

City Hall is located at 17575 Peak Avenue at the corner of Peak and W. Main Avenues. The public entrance faces Peak. Public parking is available in the parking lot in front of City Hall.

From the North
Exit Highway 101 at East Dunne Avenue. Turn right on East Dunne and travel for approximately 1.5 miles. Turn right onto Peak Avenue at the stop sign (Peak Avenue is at the first stop sign after you cross Monterey Road). Turn left on W. Main Avenue and the parking lot is the first driveway on your left.

From the South
Exit Highway 101 at East Dunne Avenue. Turn left on East Dunne, cross over the highway, and travel for approximately 1.5 miles. Turn right onto Peak Avenue at the stop sign (Peak Avenue is at the first stop sign after you cross Monterey Road). Turn left on W. Main Avenue and the parking lot is the first driveway on your left.
View Map

3. How can I request a public document that is not found on this website?

You may print out a Public Records Request Form and either mail it or drop it off at the Office of the City Clerk. A response to your request will be provided within 10 days. You may also contact the Office of the City Clerk for assistance: (408)779-7259.

4. How do I contact my Local, State and Federal Elected Officials?

You may contact your Elected Officials by accessing the following roster. Elected Officials Roster

5. How do I obtain birth and death certificates?

If you were born in Santa Clara County, you may contact the County Recorder's Office at (408) 299-2481. If you were born outside of Santa Clara County, please contact the Recorder's Office for that jurisdiction.

Santa Clara County Recorder's Website

6. How do I apply for a marriage license?

Please contact the County Recorder's Office at (408) 299-7310, or visit their website.

7. When is the Morgan Hill Library open?

Hours:
Monday: 1:00 pm - 9:00 pm (Lobby 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm)
Tuesday: 1:00 pm - 9:00 pm (Lobby 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm)
Wednesday: 1:00 pm - 9:00 pm (Lobby 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm)
Thursday: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Friday: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sunday: Closed Morgan Hill Library website

8. How do I request a City Council adopted Resolution or Ordinance?

Please complete the on-line Public Records Request form by clicking here.

9. How do I apply for a position on a Board, Committee or Commission?

You may complete a Board, Committee or Commission application.

10. How do I apply for a position with the City of Morgan Hill?

Please check the Human Resources home page from time to time to check on current openings. Job Openings

11. When do the Boards, Committees and Commissions meet?

Committees meet once or twice monthly. Please consult the calendar of meetings for regularly scheduled meetings, however meetings are subject to change. You can consult the Committees' current agenda to confirm dates and times.

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City Council

Show All Answers

1. When does the City Council meet?

The Council meets the first and third Wednesdays of the month at 7:00 pm. Please consult the calendar to determine if a meeting has been cancelled.

2. How do I voice my concerns to the Mayor and City Council?

You may send written correspondence to 17575 Peak Ave., Morgan Hill, CA 95037; or email to general@morganhill.ca.gov; or fax to (408) 779-3117; or phone (408) 779-7259. You may also attend the City Council meetings, fill out a speaker card and address the Mayor and Council.

3. How do I sign up to receive City Council Agendas?

You can enter your email address by accessing the "Notify Me" page. You may also request agendas via U.S. mail for an additional postage fee. Please contact the City Clerk's Office for information. Notify Me

4. What are the terms for Mayor and Council?

The Mayor serves for two years; and City Council Members serve for four years. There are no term limits. Mayor and Council Homepage

5. How do I become a Commissioner or Board Member?

You can learn more about the City's Boards, Committees and Commissions, and how to apply by accessing the following. Boards, Committees and Commissions Homepage

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Finance

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1. Business License

Business License information More...

2. Fire Inspections

Fire Inspection Information More...

3. Utility Billing

Utility Billing information More...

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Garbage and Recycling Services

Show All Answers

1. How do I start garbage service?

Recology South Valley provides garbage service to the City of Morgan Hill. Give them a call at (408) 842-3358 if you need to start service. Every residence will receive one 48-gallon gray garbage cart at no charge. Additional garbage may be placed in your own 32-gallon cans. These cans must have handles and not weigh more than 50 pounds when full.

2. When are my garbage & recycling collected?

Residential garbage service in Morgan Hill includes the unlimited collection of garbage, recyclables, and compostable waste. Garbage and compostable wastes are collected weekly and other recyclables are collected biweekly. Get recycling schedules here...

3. What can I recycle?

Our recycling program accepts cardboard, mixed paper, plastics coded 1 through 7 (no #6 Styrofoam or aseptic containers), glass and metal in the brown recycling container. Yard waste, food waste and food soiled paper go in the green organics cart. We also accept used motor oil, oil filters and household batteries. Complete instructions...

4. Where do I put my recyclables?

The City of Morgan Hill uses single-stream recycling which means that all of your recyclables go together in your brown, wheeled recycling cart.

5. How do I get additional recycling containers and how much will it cost?

When you begin garbage service, Recology South Valley provides you with two recycling containers; a 96-gallon green, wheeled cart for yard waste, food waste and food soiled paper and a 64-gallon brown wheeled cart for your recyclables (#1 through #7 plastics, glass and metal containers, mixed paper, cardboard). Residents can get as many containers as they reasonably need without charge. Call Recology South Valley at (408) 842-3358 to make your request. They will be delivered to your home within 5-7 business days.

6. I just did a large yard clean-up and have more yard waste than will fit in my container. What can I do with it?

You may put up to seven additional 32 gallon garbage containers of yard waste out each week for pick-up at no charge. Do not place any yard waste in plastic bags - plastic bags do not compost! If you have a truck and would like to take your extra yard waste to the transfer station, you can call Recology South Valley at (408) 842-3358. They will have someone come out and inspect the waste to make sure it is clean (no animal waste, rocks, dirt, concrete, ashes, palm bark, poison oak or ivy, building materials, tree stumps or branches larger than 3" in diameter, insect infested plants, or plastic bags). If the load is clean, you will be issued a voucher to take it to the San Martin Transfer Station.

7. How do I recycle household batteries?

Put used household batteries in a zippered style plastic bag on top of your brown recycling cart on your recycling day and they will be collected at the curb. No automotive batteries, please.

8. How can I get containers to dispose of used oil and oil filters?

Call Recology South Valley at (408) 842-3358 and containers will be dropped off at your home on your next recycling day.

9. What do I do with recyclable items not accepted in the City's curbside recycling program?

Call the County of Santa Clara's Recycle Hotline at (800) 533-8414. They will be glad to help you find a place to recycle your items or click here to visit their website...

10. Where do I get a voucher to take things to the dump?

Each residence in the Morgan Hill City limits receives two sets of vouchers per year from Recology South Valley for free trips to the San Martin Transfer Station. The vouchers are mailed directly to each service address in November and May by Recology South Valley. Each voucher is perforated down the middle and is good for two visits to the Transfer Station. The left portion of the voucher is for recyclable items and the right portion is for garbage that won't fit in your can. You must bring the voucher and your current garbage bill to the transfer station with your load. Lost vouchers will not be replaced.

11. Where can I get a debris box?

Debris box service is available from Recology South Valley. They have 20 or 40 yard boxes for general household debris and 6 yard "Rock Boxes" for heavier debris. Call them at (408) 842-3358 for more information.

12. How do I dispose of household hazardous waste?

If you have household hazardous waste (paint, auto fluids, garden chemicals, household cleaners, pool chemicals, prescription medications, etc.), call the Santa Clara County Household Hazardous Waste Hotline at (408) 299-7300 or visit their website.

13. Can I recycle empty metal aerosol cans?

Empty metal aerosol cans cannot go in your recycling cart. Please place them in with your garbage. Full or partially full aerosol cans must be disposed of as Household Hazardous Waste (HHW). Call them at (408) 299-7300 for more HHW information.

14. What do I do with my electronic waste?

It is illegal to dump televisions, computer monitors, and other electronic waste in landfills. Each one can contain up to 7 pounds of lead, which is a hazardous material. Locally, Westside Recycling, (408) 782-2555, will accept all electronic waste at no charge.

15. I removed the freon from my refrigerator. Why do I still have to pay a freon removal fee?

The County of Santa Clara requires each refrigerator that is dumped to be freon free. Every refrigerator must be inspected and certified. The fee you must pay covers the cost of inspection and certification.

16. How do I dispose of fluorescent lighting?

As of February 9, 2006, it became illegal to dispose of fluorescent lighting in landfills. Fluorescent tubes and bulbs contain mercury vapor which is released into the environment when they break. Locally, Johnson's Lumber, (408) 778-1550, will accept fluorescent lighting at no charge or call the Santa Clara County Household Hazardous Waste Hotline at (408) 299-7300 to register for one of their monthly local Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Events.

17. Does Morgan Hill have a community-wide garage sale?

Yes. Morgan Hill, Gilroy and San Martin join together to put on an annual "South County Garage Sale" event. This event, held yearly in September, promotes the idea of reuse. Check the website for more information or call (408) 310-4169.

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Human Resources

Show All Answers

1. How do I submit an online application and resume?

To apply for a position with the City of Morgan Hill, navigate to the Job Opportunities page, click on the open position you wish to apply for and click the "Apply" button, which will take you to a governmentjobs.com page. On the page you will need to make an account, and submit your application, resume, and cover letter through governmentjobs.com. Job Opportunities

2. How do I apply for a seasonal recreation position with the Community Services department?

To apply for a temporary recreation/seasonal position (aquatics, summer camps, Centennial Recreation Center, etc), navigate to the Reaction Seasonal jobs page. The available temporary positions will be located at the bottom of the page, click on the position you are interested in and continue with the normal application process (See FAQ #1). Recreation Jobs

3. May I send a resumé instead of an application?

No, you are required to complete and submit a City application form whether or not you submit a resumé. In addition, you must attach a resumé and/or cover letter to your application if the position requires it.

4. What does it mean when a job application deadline is “open until filled”?

“Open until filled” means that there is no application deadline. We will continue to accept applications until a qualified candidate is selected, at which time the job posting will be removed.

5. How will I know whether I am being considered for the job?

Applications are screened at different times depending on job title and application deadline. You will be notified as soon as we determine whether or not you are being considered for a position.

6. What do we expect to see in a resume?

Here are some suggestions to help you prepare a good resume.

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Live Scan Fingerprinting

Show All Answers

1. Does the Police Department do public fingerprinting?

Yes. We do Live Scan fingerprinting, however we do not do manual, ink on paper, fingerprinting.

2. Can I just walk in and get fingerprinted?

No. You must make an appointment by calling (408) 776-7300 during normal business hours. Effective November 2, 2015 business hours will be of 8 AM to 7:00 PM, Monday through Friday.

3. How long will my fingerprinting appointment take?

You will usually be finished within 15 minutes of your scheduled appointment.

4. How much do you charge for fingerprinting?

The fee for rolling your prints is $20, but we also collect the Department of Justice fee and FBI fee. The TOTAL fees are usually between $52 and $69, but may be more or less, depending the category, level of service, and billing information indicated on your Request for Live Scan Services form.

5. How long does it take to get the results?

The transaction is generally processed within 48 to 72 hours and the results are sent electronically to the Agency that ordered the fingerprinting.

6. I don't have my Live Scan form. Can you still fingerprint me?

No, we must have the official Request for Live Scan Services form. We do not have any forms at the Police Department.

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Planning

Show All Answers

1. What is the Community Development Department?

The Community Development Department consists of the Building and Planning Divisions and Code Enforcement. The Department is located in the Development Services Center/City Hall located at 17575 Peak Avenue in Morgan Hill.

The Department hours are from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Mondays through Friday (closed between 12 noon - 1:00 pm). A Planner or Development Services Technician is available during these hours to answer questions or provide service.

2. Can I change the Zoning or General Plan designation of my property?

Zone changes and General Plan amendments require Planning Commission review and the approval of the City Council. Zone changes require a General Plan amendment if the proposed zoning district is not consistent with the General Plan. Applications to amend the General Plan are accepted during the months of January and June.

3. I want to do an accessory structure in my backyard, do I need a permit?

Accessory structures less than 120 square feet or seven feet in height are allowed in the required side or rear setback within five feet of a property line. A structure of this size is allowed without any zoning approvals or a building permit. Any accessory structure in excess of 120 square feet, up to 12 feet in height will be subject to the requirements set forth by Section 18.56.010B of the zoning ordinance.

4. What businesses can I operate on my property?

First, determine the zoning district your property is located by checking the City’s zoning map or calling the Planning Division at (408) 779-7247. Then, look up the permitted uses for your zoning district. If your use is not listed in the permitted use section, check the conditional use section to determine if your use requires a Conditional Use Permit (CUP). Some general uses that typically require a CUP includes drive-through restaurants, gas stations, childcare facilities, and educational facilities.

5. Do I need permits for a new or replacement sign?

All business identification signs (new or replacement signs) must be reviewed and approved by the Planning Division and obtain a building permit prior to installation. Most multi-tenant and business park areas have Uniform Sign Programs that the sign needs to conform to. All signs must conform to the Sign Code (Chapter 18.76 of the Municipal Code).

6. Where can I find information on parking space dimensions, parking strip regulations, and number of required parking spaces?

Please refer to Chapter 18.50, Off-Street Parking And Paving Standards of the zoning ordinance

7. What are setbacks?

The term setback means the required distance separating a building or structure from a property line. Setback regulations for buildings are included in the Zoning Ordinance under Title 18. Setbacks regulations for accessory structures are included in the Zoning Ordinance under Chapter 18.56 Title 18

8. What is a Flood Zone?

Some parcels have flood zone designations as determined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that require certain development standards that are established in the municipal code. A parcel’s flood zone designation predicts the likelihood of the parcel enduring flood damage over 100 to 500 year periods. The Planning Division and our Public Works Engineering Division can provide flood zone information to interested property owners. For more general information about flood zones and flood insurance, you can contact the National Flood Insurance Program at (800) 638-6620.

9. What is a Variance and when do I need one?

In rare cases, property owners can be granted an exception from a development standard, such as setback requirements or coverage limitations. A variance can only be granted for relief from a particular development standard; a variance can never be granted to allow land uses prohibited by the property’s zone classification.

Minor exceptions to building setbacks and height limits may be approved by the Community Development Director. Please refer to Chapter 18.57 of the Zoning Ordinance to determine if a minor exception is possible.

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Podcasts

Show All Answers

1. How big is a podcast?

Podcasts are anywhere from 10 to 15 megabytes.

2. What does it mean to 'Listen in flash'?

Almost all browsers today have a flash player installed. By selecting 'Listen in Flash' you are able to listen right away from your browser without having to wait for the podcast to be downloaded.

3. What happens when I select download MP3?

This may do a number of things depending on how your computer is configured. Most often it will download the MP3 file to your browser's temporary area, open your default MP3 player usually as either a 'quicktime' player or windows media player.

4. How can I put the podcast into my MP3 player?

By right clicking on the download MP3 option and choosing 'save link as' you can download the file to your computer in a place you can easily find. Once you have this downloaded, you can import it into your MP3 player through something like iTunes, leave it on your computer to play as often as you wish, or copy to other computers on media such as CD's or DVD's.

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Police

Show All Answers

1. How can I join the Police Explorer Program?

If you have an interest in law enforcement, and are between the ages of 14 and 21, you are eligible to apply. Get the application here.

2. How do I get a copy of my police report?

You must make your request in writing by filling out a written application and submitting it to the Records Department along with the proper fees. You will be notified when your report is ready. You must show your ID when you pick up your report. Request a copy of my Police Report

3. Do you do live scan fingerprinting?

Yes, by appointment only. Please call (408) 776-7300 during business hours to make an appointment. Effective November 2, 2015 business hours will be 8:00 am until 7:00 pm.

4. Can I file a police report online?

Yes, if it meets the following criteria:
NOT an emergency
Happened within the CITY LIMITS of Morgan Hill
Has NO SUSPECTS
Did NOT happen on the freeway More...

5. Do you do Vehicle VIN Verification?

No. We do not do VIN Verifications. You may contact the California Highway Patrol for VIN Verifications.

6. How do I license my dog?

You must live in the CITY LIMITS of Morgan Hill. Licensing is done by mail or online through our partnership with PetData. For more information please go to www.petdata/cs/mgh or call 877-816-6810 More...

7. Do I need to license my bicycle?

Bike licensing is not mandatory, but you may register your bicycle and obtain a bike license at the Police Department. You must have the serial number of your bicycle and pay a small fee in order to obtain a bike license.

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Police - On Line Reporting

Show All Answers

1. What do I do if online incident reporting is not right for me?

If your incident is an emergency, please call 911.
If your incident is NOT an emergency, please call 408-779-2101.

2. What if this happened in another city? Can I still file a report using this system?

No. If the incident took place outside the city of Morgan Hill, please call the police department for the city where it occurred.

3. What if I know who the suspect is?

If you have any suspect information, do NOT use the online reporting system. Please call 408-779-2101 to report the crime.

A suspect is considered known when you, or someone else, knows the person, or knows where to find the person who committed the crime, or you know the license plate number of the suspect vehicle.

4. What if this happened on a state Freeway?

If the incident took place on a Freeway, please call the Highway Patrol Office nearest you.

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Public Works

Show All Answers

1. How much will my impact fees be?

Contact Public Works at (408) 776-7337 to request an estimate.

2. When do I need an encroachment permit?

If you are doing work in the right of way then you need an encroachment permit. For more information contact the Public Works Department at (408) 776-7337.

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Streets

Show All Answers

1. How do I report a street light outage?

Report the location and pole number to Public Works via the website form or by calling (408) 776-7333.

2. Who is responsible for damaged city sidewalk?

The city is responsible. Report problems to Public Works via the city website or by calling (408) 776-7333.

3. Someone has dumped trash on the side of the road. How can I get it picked up?

Report the problem to Public Works via the city website or by calling (408) 776-7333.

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Utility Billing

Show All Answers

1. What if I need my water/ sewer services turned on the same day?

After submitting your application and a copy of your drivers license, contact the utility billing office. For same day service requests prior to 3:00pm, an additional $53 is due at the time of request. If the request for service is made after 3:00pm or on weekends/holidays, an after hours service fee of $108.00 will be due.

2. When does my water bill become overdue?

Your water bill becomes delinquent 25 days after the billing date.

3. What if I do not pay my bill by the due date?

Approximately 14 days after the delinquent date, a shut-off notice is mailed. You are assessed a $14 delinquent charge for each notice sent to you. It is recommended that all PAST-DUE payments be made at City Hall. Please read notice for "date of water shut-off" and "last date payment must be received." Accounts that are shut off for non-payment are assessed an additional $53 fee.

4. What if I feel my bill is incorrect?

Please call our office at (408) 779-7221 with any questions or problems you may have. If you still believe you have been overcharged or charged for services not rendered, send your written objections within 10 days from the date of the bill/notice.

5. Is there a deposit required?

No deposit is required at this time, however, a $38 nonrefundable service fee will be added to your first bill for all new and reactivating accounts.