Who do I call for a water leak?

California American Water (Cal Am) maintains the water supply lines in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Please contact Cal Am at 888-237-1333 to report a water leak. If this is a large leak that may threaten life or property, call 911.

Who do I call regarding trash and recycling collection questions and complaints?

GreenWaste Recovery is the City’s waste hauler. Please call GreenWaste’s customer service line at (831) 920-6707 for inquiries about trash and recycling collection. If this is a recurring issue that has not been resolved by GreenWaste, please contact the Environmental Compliance Manager at (831) 620-2070. 

Who do I call regarding a sanitary sewer leak?

In the event of a clogged or overflowing sewer line that is flowing onto the street or sidewalk, call 911. 

For other non-emergency questions and issues related to the sanitary sewer, please contact the Carmel Area Wastewater District at (831) 624-1248.

Who do I call to report a pothole?

For non-emergency street or sidewalk repair and maintenance concerns, such as potholes and uneven sidewalks, please contact the Public Works Department at (831) 620-2070 to report the issue. If calling after normal business hours, please leave a message and provide the direction (eastbound, westbound, etc.), the address of the location and the nearest cross street. Messages will be checked and responded to during business hours Monday through Friday.

Who do I call to report a sidewalk that needs to be repaired?

For non-emergency street or sidewalk repair and maintenance concerns, such as potholes and uneven sidewalks, please contact the Public Works Department at (831) 620-2070 to report the issue. If calling after normal business hours, please leave a message and provide the direction (eastbound, westbound, etc.), the address of the location and the nearest cross street. Messages will be checked and responded to during business hours Monday through Friday.

How do I report a tree branch that is blocking the roadway?

Please report fallen trees or limbs blocking the road to 911.

How do I report illegal dumping?

Please call Public Works at (831) 620-2070 to report illegal dumping concerns and take a photograph of the incident. If you suspect it could be a hazardous substance, call 911. 

Do I need a permit to trim or remove a tree?

Contact the forestry division prior to conducting any tree work to confirm whether you will need to get a tree removal or pruning permit. You can find out more information about how to apply on the Forest, Parks and Beach Page. 

Do I need a permit to put a dumpster on the street?

You need an encroachment permit to store a dumpster or storage container on the street. You can find out more information about how to apply here. 

Can I have a private event on the beach?

Private events are allowed on the beach with a permit from the City. Check out the Beach page under Residents and Visitors tabs for more information. 

Where are the public bathrooms located?

There are public bathrooms at each of the City parks (Devendorf Park, Picadilly Park, Murphy House Park, Forest Hill Park), near Carmel Beach at Del Mar Parking Lot at the end of Ocean Avenue, and on Scenic Drive near the intersection with Santa Lucia Avenue. 

Where can I pick up sandbags?

Public sandbags are available free of charge to Carmel-by-the-Sea residents. They are located in the Vista Lobos parking lot off of Torres Street.  Sandbags will only be provided during winter months.