FAQs
Can I use my license to do business in another city?
No. This license is for doing business in the incorporated area of the City of Foster City only. If you plan on doing business in another city, you must contact them in order to obtain their requirements for a business license.
What do I need to do to close my business?
Business Licenses are NOT automatically canceled. When a business is sold, closed, or moved out of Foster City, the business license must be inactivated. You may send written notification to businesslicense@fostercity.org or come in person to City Hall. Please be prepared to provide the date the business is closed or sold and the name of the new owner, if applicable.
Does Foster City have a neighborhood watch program?
What business records are subject to inspection?
The license collector and any person designated as an agent by the license collector may inspect, at any time during business hours, the accounts, books, papers and documents of any business that holds any permit or tax certificate of the city.
Why is there a need for an audit?
Tax compliance requires enforcement in order to ensure equal application of the law and collection of the tax. An audit provides the means to increase compliance with the law.
Isn't this information confidential?
The ordinance guarantees the confidentiality of the information and prohibits revealing the information to anyone not charged with the administration and enforcement of the ordinance. Business name, location, phone number, and owner's name are subject to Public Record Act.
Who can I contact with additional questions?
Business License Division (650) 286-3258 or businesslicense@fostercity.org.
Is there a maximum number of animals that may be kept in a residence at one time?
Yes, no more than 2 dogs and 2 cats, more than six months old. It is not acceptable to raise bees, fowl, reptiles or other animals not specifically allowed.
Chapter 6.04, Section 6.04.330 - Keeping of other animals permitted
When does the street sweeper sweep my street?
The street sweeper sweeps Neighborhoods 1-3 on every other Tuesday and sweeps Neighborhoods 4-9 on every other Thursday. For more information, such as the street sweeping days and the street sweeping schedule by street names, please visit the Street Sweeping page.
My neighbor's have let weeds grow in their yard and have generally neglected the premises, can anything be done?
Yes, weeds/trash & debris are fire hazards and also harbor rats. Enforcement action may be required for this type of violation. Appropriate measures must be taken to correct these infractions, which are a health, safety as well as an aesthetic problem.
My neighbor's house has been partially painted for over a year. Can anything be done to resolve this problem?
Yes. Unpainted, unstained, partially chipped or peeling exteriors of buildings, fences and structures, as well as buildings, fences and structures left partially unpainted for an unreasonable period of time constitute a property nuisance.
Where can I pick up sandbags?
During heavy storm seasons, Foster City residents and merchants can pick up a maximum of 10 sandbags at the City Hall parking lot (north corner), located at 610 Foster City Boulevard. It will be made available to the residents 24/7. There will be sand, bags, and a shovel for residents and merchants to bag it themselves. For more information, please visit the Sandbags page.
Who is responsible for altering my sidewalk, such as fixing it or installing a drain?
Under existing state law and City ordinance, Foster City property owners are responsible for maintaining the sidewalks immediately adjacent to their properties. This includes, but is not limited to, sidewalks along major roadways, sidewalks located behind walls or fences, segments on the back of properties, and multiple segments for priorities with multiple sidewalk adjacencies. For complete details about sidewalk maintenance and responsibilities, please visit the Sidewalks page.
Can anything be done about people in my neighborhood who leave their garbage cans out in front all week?
Yes. Garbage cans stored in the front or side yards and visible from the public street or lagoon are considered an offence against the property, subject to abatement.
A tree is overgrown and is obstructed the view of drivers at the street intersection. Can anything be done?
Yes. Overgrown landscaping that obstructs the sight distance of drivers is a violation of Section 9.52.010 of the Municipal Code.
I have a logo I want to use on my sign at a shopping center, is it ok?
Commercial developments and shopping centers each have their own specific sign guidelines. If your logo fits in with these guidelines, it can be approved with a sign permit.
Chapter 15.12, Section 15.12.220 - Sign guidelines for specific developments
How do I report a sewer problem?
In the event of a sewer overflow or backup during working hours (Monday through Thursday, 7:30 am - 4:30 pm; Friday, 7:30 am - 3:30 pm), please notify the Wastewater Division IMMEDIATELY by calling (650) 286-8140. After working hours, please contact Police Dispatch at (650) 286-3345. Please do not email or report electronically. For more information, please visit the Wastewater page.
My organization is sponsoring a race. What is required to put up a banner?
Banners and most temporary signs require a sign permit. Special events usually require a Temporary Use Permit.
I was told that I could not have an exterior TV antenna. Is this true?
No. The Federal Communications Commission has issued an order preempting local regulation of: 1) residential satellite dishes less that one meter in diameter, 2) an antenna that is one meter or less in diameter or diagonal measurement and is designed to receive video programming services via MMDS (wireless cable) or to receive or transmit fixed wireless signals other than via satellite and 3) TV antennas that are on a mast not higher than 12 feet.
Chapter 17.60, Section 17.60.090 - Single-family and two-family residential districts
Do I need a permit to construct a storage shed in the rear of my property?
Accessory buildings that are above the fence line or that are visible from the water require prior permit approval. Accessory buildings or structures located below the fence line and which are not visible from the water are exempt from permit requirements.
Chapter 17.50, Section 17.50.020 - Accessory buildings or structures — Regulations
Do I need approval to remodel or repair my deck or fence?
Most fences, decks, remodels, and some repairs DO require zoning and building approval.
Chapter 17.50, Section 17.50.020 - Accessory buildings or structures — Regulations
Chapter 17.52, Section 17.52.040 - General regulations
Is storage of RV's, boats or disabled vehicles permitted on residential property?
Storage of recreational vehicles, recreational vehicle equipment, boats, boat trailers, campers on private property is prohibited, except as regulated or approved by Chapter 17.64.
Chapter 17.64, Section 17.64.020 - Permitted storage — Siting and design
