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Building & Safety Division

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1. Why do I need a Building Permit?

A Building Permit allows you the unbiased evaluation of a Building Inspector to assure you that your job meets minimum code standards.

2. When do I need a Building Permit?

You need a Building Permit for construction, repair, alteration, and removal of any building or structure. This includes:

• Accessory Buildings
• Electrical
• Gazebos
• Heating and Air Conditioning Repairs or Alterations
• Masonry Walls
• Patios
• Plumbing
• Pools
• Retaining Walls

3. Where may I apply for a permit and/or submit plans for my project?

You may submit applications and/or plans to:
Development Services Department
150 S Palm Avenue
Rialto, CA 92376

4. Does the Building Division accept plans electronically?

The Building Division will accept Solar Energy Permits electronically. Please visit Procedure for Solar Energy Permits (PDF) for more information.

5. What hours may I submit my plans and/or permit application and fees?

The Building Division counter is open Monday through Friday, from 7 am to 5:30 pm to accept plan check and permit fees.

6. What is the cost for a Building Permit?

Each permit varies in price, based on the specifics of the work to be completed. Please see the Building Division Fee Schedule for general fee information, or please contact the Building Division at 909-820-2505.

7. What forms of payments are accepted for Building Permit and Plan Check Fees?

The Building Division accepts the following forms of payment

• Cash and/or Check
• MasterCard
• Visa

Please note, all credit card transactions require a 2% service fee.

8. What is the turnaround time for the approval of a Building Permit and/or Plan Check?

The turnaround time depends on the scope, type of permit, and complexity of work. Permits for a patio or block wall may often be reviewed and issued over-the-counter. All others must be routed to various departments/divisions for review, comments, and approval. For additional information, please contact 909-820-2505.

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City Parks

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1. Does every city park have restrooms?

Restrooms are available at every city park. Please see a list of parks for specific park details.

2. Can I have a bouncer at a park?

Bouncers are permitted at any park only if you obtain a Certificate of Liability Insurance and provide to the City at Recreation@rialtoca.gov. You must also provide your own generator for power supply.

VIEW JUMPER REQUIREMENTS HERE

3. Does every city park have power outlets?

Power outlets are not available at our city parks.

4. Do I need a permit or show insurance for the bouncer?

Permits and insurance are both required for bouncers.

5. Can I rent a shelter at a city park?

Yes. Shelters can be rented Online or in Person.

RENT ONLINE

RENT IN PERSON

Please visit the Rialto Community Center Monday through Thursday, 7 am to 6 pm at:
214 N Palm Avenue
Suite 204
Rialto, CA 92376

The office is closed Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. You may call the Rialto Community Center at 909-421-4949.

6. What are the park hours?

7 am to 10 pm (unless otherwise posted)

7. Can my team use the park for practices?

No, all team activities must obtain permits from the Community Services Department.

8. My group would like to host an event at a city park, is that possible?

Yes, Please call the Community Services Department, Special Events Division at 909-421-4949.

9. Can I bring my dog to the park?

The City of Rialto has designated dog parks

Andreson Park
726 S Lilac Avenue
Rialto, CA 92376

Frisbie Park
1901 N. Acacia
Rialto, CA 92376

10. The park has broken equipment, whom do I call?

If you notice broken equipment or park disrepair, please call the Community Services Department at 909-421-4949.

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Dog Licensing

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1. When do dogs need to be licensed?

When you move into Rialto or acquire a new dog, a dog license must be purchased within 30 days. Puppies must be licensed by the age of four months.

However, if you are a new resident and had your dog licensed where you used to live, you may qualify for a "transfer" license if you apply within 45 days of moving here and provide proof of the other agency’s current license. Please note that dog tag from another agency, including San Bernardino County, is not valid in Rialto.

2. How do I obtain a license for my dog?

When you apply for your dog’s license, we will need to see a current rabies vaccination certificate. If your dog has been neutered or spayed, you will receive a discount on the license, but you must present a sterility certificate at the time you apply for the license.

3. Where do I purchase a dog license?

You may apply for a dog license through the mail or in person. If you apply through the mail, be sure to send photocopies of the necessary documentation. Also, please write your California Driver’s License number on the face of your check or money order. A receipt and your dog’s tag will be mailed back to you. Please use the following address:
City of Rialto
Dog Licensing
150 S Palm Avenue
Rialto, CA 92376

4. How do I renew the dog license?

A renewal notice will be mailed to you. It is not necessary to have the notice to renew the license. If you do not receive the notice, contact the Treasurer’s Office at 909-421-7223 in order to avoid penalties. Please check the personal information on the notice to make sure it is still correct and make any corrections necessary. Note: Tags are not transferable from dog to dog or owner to owner.

Renewals may be annually, biennially, or triennially, with a 10% discount for a multi-year tag renewal, based on the rabies expiration date. The expiration date on your dog’s rabies vaccination appears on the renewal notice, under "Vaccination Expiration." Once you receive your renewal notice, check the vaccination expiration date on the notice to see when the rabies shot expires. You can only purchase a tag up to the rabies expiration date, not past it. You must submit a new rabies certificate if the rabies shot has expired or will expire within the next three months or the application cannot be accepted.

5. When do I renew my dog license?

The expiration date for the City of Rialto dog licenses is listed on your renewal notice under "License Expire." In order to avoid penalties, payments are due by the last working day of the month the license expires (postmarks are accepted).

6. What are the City's leash and cleanup laws?

The Code requires dogs to be on a leash at all times with tags attached when off their property. The leash must be held by a person capable of controlling the dog and the person must clean up all solid waste deposited by the dog.

7. What is the number of animals allowed in Rialto?

Rialto Municipal Code states any combination of animals as long as you do not exceed four animals or three dogs. That means if you have two cats, you would only be allowed to have two dogs.

8. Are some animals not allowed in Rialto?

Yes, noisy animals or fowl, such as roosters, are not allowed. Barnyard animals, such as pot bellied pigs, goats, and sheep are not allowed in residential zones. Your animals cannot disturb the peace and quiet of your neighbors.

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Economic Development - Starting a Business

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1. How do I know if my business is allowed where I want to locate it?

The City of Rialto has various land uses or zones that are defined in the City’s Municipal Code that allow for various types of business uses. Please check with the City’s Planning Department at 909-820-2535 to determine if your business use is permitted in a particular zone.

2. Am I required to have a business license?

Yes. All businesses operating or doing business within the city limits of Rialto are required to obtain a business license. Contact the City of Rialto Business License office at 909-820-2517. Find more information about applying for a business license.

3. What type of business entity should I have?

You may choose to conduct a business as a sole proprietorship, corporation, partnership, or limited liability company. You should consult with a legal representative and accountant before making any determination as to the type of business entity to form. For more information on each type of business entity, please visit the California Business Portal section of the Secretary of State’s website. Unless you conduct your business as a sole proprietorship, you must file papers with the Secretary of State’s office:

• Secretary of State
  Business Programs Division
  1500 11th Street
  Sacramento, CA 95814
• Phone: 916-657-5448

4. What’s a fictitious name statement?

If you use a business name other than your own legal name or initials, you must file a fictitious name statement with the County Clerk at:

• San Bernardino County
  Auditor/Controller-Recorder Office
  222 W Hospitality Lane
  San Bernardino, CA 92415
• Phone: 909-386-8970

5. Where can I obtain a seller’s permit (Retail Sales Tax Number)?

The State Board of Equalization (BOE) issues seller’s permits and is responsible for the administration and collection of the State’s sales and use, fuel, alcohol, tobacco, and other special taxes and fees. Contact the BOE at:

• State Board of Equalization
  3737 Main Street
  Number 1000
  Riverside, CA 92501
• Phone: 909-680-6400

6. Where do I obtain a State Tax Identification Number?

The Franchise Tax Board (FTB) issues State Tax identification numbers and administers personal and corporate income and franchise taxes for the State of California. Information regarding this number (which is utilized to track state withholding taxes) can be obtained from the California Franchise Tax Board at:

• Franchise Tax Board
  464 W 4th Street
  Room 454
  San Bernardino, CA 92401
• Phone: 909-852-5711
• Toll-Free: 800-852-5711

7. Where can I obtain a Federal Tax Identification Number?

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issues federal employer identification numbers and administers federal payroll taxes, including social security, Medicare, federal unemployment insurance, and federal income tax withholding. For more information, please contact:

• Internal Revenue Service
  290 N D Street
  San Bernardino CA 92401
• Phone: 909-388-8108

8. Where do I get my State Employer Identification Number?

The Employment Development Department (EDD) issues state employer identification numbers, (SEIN) and administers California’s payroll taxes, including unemployment insurance, employment training tax, state disability insurance, and California personal income tax withholding. Contact the EDD at:

• Employment Development Department
  464 W 4th Street
  Room 454 A
  San Bernardino, CA 92401
• Phone: 888-745-3886

9. What type of permits or licenses do I need to start my business?

Depending upon the type of business you conduct, you may also be required to obtain a special license(s) or permits from the State of California, County of San Bernardino, City of Rialto, or other agencies prior. To determine which occupations and businesses require additional licenses or permits you may contact the regional Permit Assistance Center or the Cal Gold website at:

• Inland Empire Permit Assistance Center
  2038 Iowa Avenue
  Suite 100
  Riverside, CA 92507
• Phone: 909-320-2048

10. I’m going to be serving food products. Do I need special approvals?

Yes. The San Bernardino County Health Department reviews all plans for compliance with State of California health codes. They are interested in the type of restaurant equipment installed, the categories of food you are handling, and standards relating to employee hygiene. The Health Department can be reached at:

• County of San Bernardino
  Environmental Health Services
  385 N Arrowhead
  2nd Floor
  San Bernardino, CA 92415
• Phone: 800-442-2283

11. If I sell any alcoholic beverages, will I need any special approvals?

Yes. The sale and serving of alcoholic beverages in conjunction with any business is governed by the State of California Alcoholic Beverage Control Agency (ABC). Please contact them regarding all pertinent rules, regulations, and required permits. In addition, to obtaining a license from the ABC, your business may also require special review and approvals from the City of Rialto. Please contact the Planning Department at 909-820-2535.

ABC can be reached at:

• Department of Alcohol and Beverage Control
  3737 Main Street
  Suite 900
  Riverside, CA 92501
• Phone: 909-782-4400

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Grace Vargas Senior Center

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1. How much is it to rent your facility?

The cost of the room is dependent upon many variables. The Rental Application Packet will give you a better understanding of which bracket you would fall under.

2. How many people does the largest banquet room hold?

The Berglund Room has a 200 person limit capacity.

3. What is the earliest and latest I can rent the facility?

Our facility is available to rent as early as 7 am to midnight.

4. Will we be able to use your centerpieces that are on the tables now?

All decorations are to be supplied by the applicant and need to be free-standing, not taped to any surface.

5. Can I decorate the night before or earlier in the day before the rental and pay for the time it takes to decorate?

We do not allow decorating the day before the event. You can decorate on the day of your rental. Set up and clean up needs to be done during your reservation time. The hourly rental rate begins from the moment you begin to set-up to the moment your event is concluded.

6. How long does it take to get my damage deposit back?

If you pay by cash or check, please allow four weeks for your check to be mailed back to you after your event. If you use a credit card, the refund is returned the following business day.

7. What if I don’t want to pay for staff and don’t need them?

A staff member has to be on-site for the duration of every rental.

8. What does staff do?

A staff member sets up the tables and chairs, assists with facility equipment, and monitors the trash and the building. They are available during your event.

9. Do I have to clean up or does staff do that?

The renter is responsible for taking down decorations and any equipment that the applicant brings in.

10. Will ice be available to me?

If ice is needed, staff can provide that for the renter if the renter brings a container for the ice.

11. What if I just need to warm something up on the stove, do I still need to pay for the kitchen?

The kitchen needs to be reserved in advance. There is a damage deposit and an hourly rate for the kitchen. We have a kitchenette that comes with a refrigerator and a microwave that is available for the renter.

12. What size are the round tables?

The round tables in the facility are 60 inches in diameter and seat a maximum of 8 people per table.

13. Is there a minimum number of hours I have to rent?

There is no minimum number of hours to rent the facility. However, the rental cannot exceed 10 hours.

14. Can I hang things on the wall?

The City does not allow anything to be stapled, nailed, or adhered to any surface. All decorations, banners, etc. must be free-standing.

15. Is the sound system or projector and screen included in the price?

Use of our sound system and equipment is available at no charge to the renter.

16. Will I be allowed to use the coffee maker that is in your small kitchen?

The coffee maker in the small kitchen is available to the renter; however, the renter is responsible for supplying their own coffee and filters.

17. Are we allowed to have liquor?

Alcohol is allowed on City property or in the building with prior approval from the City.

18. Do you supply the food, or do we have to bring our own?

The facility does not supply the food for rentals. Renters must provide their own catering or food for the rental. A full kitchen is available for rent to accommodate all catering needs.

19. Does the Senior Center provide linens?

The renter is responsible for their own linens.

20. How long in advance do I have to pay the balance of my fees?

The balance has to be paid in full 30 days prior to the date of the event.

21. How long in advance do I have to let you know if I want to cancel in order to get all my money back?

In order to receive a full refund of money paid, all cancellations must be 30 days prior to the reservation.

22. How long in advance do I need to reserve if I’m planning an event?

The facility is booked a minimum of 60 days and a maximum of six months in advance. Rentals are done on a first come first serve basis.

23. Is it possible to adjust the rental time?

Any changes must be at least 30 days in advance to ensure we will have the staff to cover the rental.

24. Is membership required to come to the senior center?

You do not need to become a member to enjoy the facility.

25. Is the Rialto Senior Center a live-in facility?

No, it is a recreational daily drop-in facility open Monday through Thursday 8 am to 5 pm and Friday 8 am to 4 pm.

26. How old do you have to be to come here?

Fifty years or older.

27. Do seniors need a caregiver to come to the senior center?

The activities at the Grace Vargas Senior Center are designed for active seniors who do not require special care or supervision. Seniors who require special care or supervision must be accompanied by a caregiver age 18 years or older when visiting the Center.

28. Can children come to the senior center?

Children three years and older can attend the center provided they are accompanied by a senior participant are carefully supervised. Children are not allowed to participate in activities, clubs, and classes.

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Home - FAQs

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1. How do I pay my city water bill?

Answer goes here...

2. How do I get a new trash can lid?

Answer goes here...

3. How do I apply for a job with the City?

Answer goes here...

4. My trash didn't get picked up, what should I do now?

Answer goes here...

5. How do I get a garage sale permit?

Answer goes here...

6. How can I see the agenda for an upcoming City Council or Board meeting?

Answer goes here...

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Rialto Network

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1. What is Public Access?

Public access exists due to an agreement between the cable company and the communities it serves. Public access programming is community programming on cable TV. It gives you the opportunity to write, produce, direct, and perform in your own programs. People who normally are not allowed easy access to the mass media find a powerful resource for local expression through public access. A majority of public access programs are produced locally by non-professionals.

2. Who is Public Access for?

Anyone with a non-commercial message or idea can present it on the public access channel.

3. Why should I get involved in Public Access television?

Public access is a great opportunity to take a stand on a current issue, or let the community know what your group is doing. It’s a cost-free way to promote your special interest or event and have fun doing it.

What programs are seen on public access? Any programming protected by the first amendment which is not commercial, libelous, slanderous, or obscene in nature may be shown on public access. These include many types of programs, such as:

• Documentaries
• Educational
• Entertainment
• Interviews
• Panel discussions
• Performances
• Political
• Religious
• Sports

4. How can I get involved with Public Access?

Getting involved with public access begins with taking our public access workshops. Through these classes, you can become a Community Access Producer. Then you can use Rialto Network video equipment to make your own programs. The classes cover the basic elements of TV production, such as:

• Audio
• Camera
• Editing
• Lighting

The classes, channel time, and use of equipment are free. The amount of time and energy you devote to the program is up to you. It can be hard work, but well worth the effort.

5. What does it cost to produce a Public Access show?

The costs to produce a public access show are minimal. The classes are free, and the use of facilities and equipment is free. Therefore, generally, your only costs are the costs for your external hard drive (to back up your files). Any additional costs are up to you; if you wish to invest your money into the production value of your show, you are free to do so.

6. Can I make money off of my show?

No, you cannot make a profit from your public access show. You are also prohibited from using public access equipment and facilities on other projects which can generate revenue.

7. Can I use Public Access equipment or facilities for my own person interests?

No, you may not use public access equipment or facilities for your own interests, even if they generate no revenue. The equipment and facilities are provided to you solely for use in producing public access programming. They are not intended for use in producing school projects, family videos, or other hobbies, unless you intend to show said projects on the public access channel.

8. Can I use my own equipment to produce my show?

Yes, you may use your own equipment to produce your show. The final video must be in a format which is acceptable for playback on Rialto Network.

9. How can I find crew to help me produce my show?

The best way to find crew for your show is by "networking." We encourage the "buddy system," where producers help each other on their shows. By doing so, your chances of finding crew is increased.

10. How many people do I need to crew my show?

The more people you have to crew your show, the easier it will be to produce, and the better it will look! To cover every crew position, you will need four people. You may or many not need this many people, depending on the complexity of your show. On a more simple production, you may be able to combine some of the crew positions.

We require a minimum of two people to crew your show. Rialto Network staff should not be considered to fill crew positions.

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Utility Users Tax

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1. What is the Utility Users Tax (UUT)?

The UUT is an 8% tax on home and business utilities:

• Cable
• Electric
• Gas
• Phone
• Sewer
• Water services
• Wireless

Rialto’s UUT

In California, about 150 municipalities and counties have a UUT. Rialto’s UUT was originally implemented in 2003 with a five-year sunset on June 30, 2008. When the UUT was approved, the City Council eliminated two taxes - the citywide PERS Property Tax and a Community Facility District (CFD) Tax in Las Colinas - saving property owners several hundred dollars in taxes each year.

The UUT was extended in 2007 for an additional five years, expiring on June 30, 2013. A measure to extend the tax another five years is scheduled for a public vote on March 5, 2013.

2. How much does the Utility Users Tax (UUT) contribute to the general fund?

The UUT produces $11 million annually - or 22% of total General Fund revenues. It has had an immediate and lasting impact, providing increased:

• Code enforcement
• Public safety
• Recreation
• Senior center operations
• Street maintenance
• More

Past Funding Projects

During its first four years, from 2003 to 2007, the UUT provided funding for the following:

• 1 animal control officer
• 1 battalion chief
• 10 police officers
• 2 code enforcement officers
• 6 law-enforcement technicians
• 9 firefighter/paramedic trainees
• A new fire ladder truck and engine

3. What does the Utility Users Tax (UUT) cost me?

The average Rialto resident pays up to $30 per month as a result of the utility tax.

4. Will a “yes” vote increase my taxes?

No. The current 8% tax rate will remain the same if the measure is approved.

5. Why is an extension necessary?

Since 2007, general fund revenues have declined by nearly $8.5 million, from $57.8 million to $49.3 million. This is due to a variety of factors, most notably the lingering economic downturn, which has cut into traditional revenue streams. The elimination of redevelopment agencies and the defeat of Measure V have put an additional financial strain on the City, to the point where even with a Utility Users Tax (UUT) extension the City faces a projected budget deficit in the 2014 fiscal year of $7.6 million.

6. What is the City doing to run a more fiscally responsible organization?

The City Council and staff are committed to operating in a fiscally responsible manner to provide vital and essential services to the City. Since 2007, we have trimmed payroll from 330 to 259 full-time positions, and we are continuing to look at ways to reduce expenses. As with most California cities, public safety represents 70 to 80% of expenditures, making service reductions difficult. Moving forward, options include hiring freezes, additional staffing reductions, and salary and/or benefit reductions.

7. What If the Utility Users Tax (UUT) goes away?

To avoid a financial calamity, the level of service the City provides must not exceed our means to pay for those services. Without a Utility Users Tax (UUT) extension, our projected FY 2014 revenues would fall to $38.1 million - one-third less than they were in 2007, not counting inflation. The impact of that would be felt city-wide, including:

• Loss of up to 20 positions in the Police Department, negatively impacting emergency and non-emergency response times, reducing patrols and arrests, and potentially eliminating the:
  • Investigations
  • Special Crimes Apprehension Team (SCAT)
  • Traffic units
  • Narcotics
• Reduction in:
  • The Arson and special weapons and tactics (SWAT) medic program
  • Fire prevention programs
  • Up-staffing for high fire-potential events such as red-flag warnings and the Fourth of July
  • Paramedic staffing
• Closure of the Las Colinas Fire Station 204, resulting in longer response times and a higher risk of property damage and/or loss of life
• Inability to qualify for certain public safety-related grants that require matching local funds
• Reductions in:
  • Concrete and sidewalk repair
  • Graffiti abatement
  • Park maintenance
  • Street sweeping
• Reduction or elimination of services at the:
  • Community center
  • Pool
  • Senior center
• Establishment of usage fees for sports fields and lighting
• Reduction of two of five code enforcement officers and/or support staff, and three to five public works positions

8. Don’t property taxes and our new water rates pay for a lot of this?

For every dollar spent on property taxes in Rialto, the City receives 14 cents which, added up, accounts for about 10% of the City’s General Fund revenues. The average home value in Rialto declined by 60% during the recession and, as a result, property taxes for most property owners dropped by a sizable amount - this reduced property tax revenues for the City.

The water-rate increase will not pay for ongoing General Fund expenses but will be primarily used to make necessary improvements to the City’s aging water and wastewater infrastructure.

9. Aren’t we simply paying for employee retirement costs?

The City’s pension liability has, in fact, gone up over the past five years. At the same time, all bargaining units in the City are now paying their portion of pension costs. Without the $11 million generated by the Utility Users Tax (UUT), the City’s existing liability does not go away, meaning the only way to make up the difference would be to eliminate positions and vital services. Effective January 1, 2013, all new hires are subject to a pension program which will reduce long-term retirement costs.

10. Are low-income households and senior citizens still exempt from paying the tax?

Yes, all components of the low-income and senior citizen exemption program will remain the same for the new measure.