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The City of Sierra Madre provides applications, licenses, and permits to support residents, businesses, and development projects. This page explains how to apply, where to find forms, and what to expect during the review process.

Public Works Permits

Welcome to the Public Works permitting page.

Please note: This department handles work within the public right-of-way (streets, sidewalks, etc.). All permits for construction or improvements on private property are managed by the Planning & Building Department.

For questions specifically regarding Public Works permits, please contact our department at (626) 355-7135 or email permits@sierramadreca.gov.

How to Apply: Download the required PDF applications below. Completed applications can be submitted in person at City Hall or via email to permits@sierramadreca.gov.
How much is each public works permit? View the PW Fee Schedule →

Right-of-Way Permits

Grading & Drainage

Waste & Environmental

Sidewalk Dining

Do I Need a Public Works Permit?

✅ YES - Permit Required

If your work touches the Public Right-of-Way:

  • Streets & Alleys
  • Public Sidewalks
  • Driveway Aprons (The asphalt ramp from street to sidewalk)
  • Parkways (The grass/dirt strip between the curb and the sidewalk)
❌ NO - Public Works Permit Not Required

If your work is entirely on Private Property:

  • Landscaping in your private yard
  • Repairing the driveway behind the sidewalk
  • Replacing a mailbox

*Note: Work on private property may still require a Building or Planning permit.

Contractor Standards & Requirements

Mandatory Insurance Requirements

All permits require a valid City Business License and an approved General Liability policy (Ref: #NRG-DBG-GL17329) with the City of Sierra Madre explicitly scheduled on the certificate. Policies must include the following:

  • General Liability: Minimum limit of $1,000,000 per occurrence.
  • Additional Insured Endorsement: Must explicitly name "The City of Sierra Madre, its officials, agents, and employees."
  • Waiver of Subrogation Endorsement
  • Primary Non-Contributory Endorsement

Public Works Inspections

Public Works inspections are mandatory at specific project milestones, including but not limited to: pre-pour (forms/rebar), trench compaction, and final completion.

Warning: Work covered or poured without a prior City inspection may be subject to removal at the contractor's expense.

To Schedule an Inspection: Contact the Public Works Department at (626) 355-7135. Please allow a minimum of 24 hours' notice for all inspection requests.

Construction Specifications

All Public Works construction, engineering, and design must comply with the Greenbook Standards and the City of Sierra Madre's local specifications. This governs materials, methods, and quality control for infrastructure such as curbs, gutters, paving, and sidewalks.

The Greenbook Construction Standards Cover
The Greenbook Construction Standards

Standard Specifications for Public Works Construction (2021 Edition). Click the cover to view or download the relevant specifications for City right-of-way projects.

View Greenbook Standards →

Questions about building and safety permits?
Contact the Planning & Community Preservation Department at (626) 355-7138 or email permits@sierramadreca.gov

For more information, please visit our Building and Safety Permits page.

Permits Available

Mechanical

Electrical

Plumbing

Building & Safety

Sewer

Demolition

Solar

 

Questions about planning or zoning permits?
Contact the Planning & Community Preservation Department at (626) 355-7138 or email permits@sierramadreca.gov

Permits Available

Zoning & Land Use

Design & Sign Review

Solar

TUP

 

 

Questions about fire and safety permits or inspections?
Contact the Sierra Madre Fire Department at (626) 355-3611 to schedule an appointment or request additional information.

Permits Available

Fire Permits

Inspections

  • Inspections – By appointment
    Contact Fire Department

Questions about Community Use and Events permits or reservations?
Contact the Community Services Department at (626) 355-5278 for assistance.

Permits Available

Facilities & Events

Neighborhood & Temporary Uses

Filming

Questions about licenses or administrative and City Clerk permits?

Contact the City Clerk’s Office at (626) 355-7135.

Permits Available

Licenses

Temporary & Election-Related Permits

 

Planning Applications

Some development projects require planning review and approval before building permits can be issued. Planning applications are reviewed to ensure compliance with zoning, land use, and design standards.

Plan Check Services

Contact Us

232 W. Sierra Madre Blvd.
Sierra Madre, CA 91024

(626) 355-7135

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