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Deadline

Deadline to apply is xyz.

Benefits

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Who can apply

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Steps to apply

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Help

For questions or support, contact:

  • Phone: 555-555-5555
  • Email: help@proudcity.co

Frequently asked questions

The Traffic Division signs off citations Monday-Friday from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. You must bring your citation and vehicle to the Police Department.  You will be charged a fee of $5.00 for SAPD citations or $15.70 for any other outside police agency citation. For address and directions to the police department click here.

An ADU/JADU/Garage Conversion can affect current/future permit parking allocation.

If I live on a permit parking street and I add an ADU/JADU/Garage Conversion to my Single Family Dwelling will it change my permit parking eligibility?

Yes, an ADU/JADU/Garage Conversion is considered a unit and it will change the classification of a Single Family Dwelling to a Multi-Family Dwelling. Therefore the number of permits allotted will change.

If I have a four-plex and add one (1) more unit, will this change my permit parking eligibility?

Yes, properties with more than four units do not qualify for parking permits.

If I add an ADU/JADU/Garage Conversion, will my ADU/JADU/Garage Conversion get three parking permits and guest passes like my Single Family Dwelling?

No. Adding an ADU/JADU/Garage Conversion will adversely change your permit allotment.

The City of Santa Ana is committed to ensuring the safety and quality of our drinking water. The lead issue in Flint, Michigan, in 2016 highlighted the importance of addressing lead in drinking water systems. Unlike Flint, our water supply does not contain lead, and we adhere to strict regulatory standards to safeguard public health. Here’s what you need to know:

  • We conduct regular testing of water within our distribution system to monitor lead levels in accordance with the Lead & Copper Rule (LCR) established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
  • Our latest city-wide test for lead, conducted independently in 2021, yielded results that were fully compliant with the LCR.
  • Santa Ana’s water supply is non-corrosive, helping to prevent the leaching of lead from plumbing fixtures.
  • We do not have any lead pipes in our distribution system, further ensuring the absence of lead contamination. For more detailed information on the quality of Santa Ana’s water, you can review our Water Quality Report found here.
  • In 2021, 123 residences were tested for lead and copper at-the-tap. Lead was detected in 4 samples, none of which exceeded the Action Level for lead.

 

Lead In Residential Plumbing

Lead in drinking water is primarily from materials and components associated with service lines and home plumbing. The City of Santa Ana is responsible for providing high quality drinking water but cannot control the variety of materials used in a home’s plumbing components.

 

 

If you live in an older house that has copper piping with lead solder, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure. When your water has been sitting for several hours in the pipes, simply flush your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. If you do so, consider collecting the flushed water and reuse it for another beneficial purpose, such as watering plants. If you are concerned about lead in your water, you may wish to have your water tested. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure are available from the U.S. EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791 or at www.epa.gov/lead.

The City of Santa Ana is working with Orange County’s Health Care Agency and their selected contractor Azure Community Development to offer a lead testing and abatement program available to Santa Ana households. To view the eligibility checklist and complete the pre-screening questionnaire click here.

 

The taste or smell of your water may change throughout the year because the City of Santa Ana uses a blend of two water sources. About 77 percent of our water comes from local groundwater, while the rest is imported from Metropolitan Water District (MWD). MWD gets water from the Colorado River and Northern California, treating it with chloramines at their filtration plant. We also treat local well water with chlorine. This blend of waters can result in different tastes or mineral levels in your water at different times. However, these variations don’t affect water safety. Regular testing and monitoring by the City of Santa Ana help ensure that water quality meets regulatory standards year-round. In addition to providing high-quality water at lower costs, using different water sources benefits our customers by improving supply reliability.

It’s not the water itself that smells. In fact, the City of Santa Ana conducts regular monitoring tests throughout the water distribution system to check for any odors. This issue is typically related to organic materials that have been discarded into a kitchen drain or another sink. Over time, these materials can accumulate and decay within the drain, creating an unpleasant odor. There could also be bacteria locked in the P-trap of your bathroom sink drain or a buildup of bacteria in your pipes.

To remedy this issue, routinely clean drain stoppers, faucet aerators and flush the P-trap and/or garbage disposal, the sink and the overflow with a solution of household chlorine bleach. If this awful rotten-egg smell is persistent and the issues continue, you may need to contact a qualified plumber to address it.

Tap water can sometimes appear cloudy which is often mistaken for an impurity in the water. Cloudy water, also commonly described as milky white, hazy, soapy or foamy, is usually caused by air in the water. How does this happen? About 70% of our water comes from local wells. The well water we supply is pumped from hundreds of feet below the ground and that pumping process can sometimes result in aeration, or the mixing of air with water. Also, when making changes to your home’s plumbing, such as replacing a water heater or faucet fixtures, it is common for air to enter the pipes when they are repressurized. Aeration creates small bubbles in the water that are harmless but may give the water a cloudy appearance. If your water looks cloudy, pour some water into a clear glass and set it on the counter. Observe the glass of water for a few minutes. If the white color is due to air, the air bubbles will rise to the top of the glass and disappear.

No, it’s unnecessary! Bottled water and tap water are regulated by different agencies. Tap water actually has more stringent reporting requirements, such as providing customers with a printed Water Quality Report each year. Bottled water suppliers aren’t required to share this data, but some might if asked. The water from the City of Santa Ana is clean, high quality and safe to drink, much less expensive and more environmentally friendly than bottled water. Before switching to bottled water or a filter, compare the data from the City of Santa Ana’s Annual Water Quality Report with the data from the bottled water or filtration device you’re thinking about. The choice between bottled water or a filter should depend on preferences, not concerns about health risks.

Tap water hardness varies because it absorbs minerals like calcium and magnesium as it passes through soil and rock. These minerals aren’t harmful and can actually supplement essential nutrients in your body. In Santa Ana, as in much of Southern California, hard water is common due to elevated levels of these minerals. Santa Ana’s water has a hardness of about 250 parts per million or approximately 15 grains per gallon.

While the taste of drinking water is subjective and varies among individuals, some residents choose to use water softening treatment systems for their homes or businesses. The City of Santa Ana does not endorse or recommend any specific systems. However, if you are interested in exploring water filter options, the California Water Board website provides a comprehensive list of hundreds of registered Residential Water Treatment Devices. Visit this webpage to find a filter that meets your specific needs. When selecting one, consider capacity, regeneration method, warranty, and manufacturer reputation.

The white residue or spots on your glassware are typically caused by minerals like calcium and magnesium found naturally in water. These minerals are common in what’s known as “hard” water. However, they don’t pose any health risks; in fact, they can contribute to your daily intake of calcium and magnesium, which are important nutrients according to the National Research Council. Many people even prefer the taste and health benefits of water with these minerals over distilled or “soft” water.

To remove these mineral deposits from your cookware, you can boil a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water. Similarly, to clean your coffee maker, fill the reservoir with the same vinegar-water mixture and run a cycle.

Water pressure in Santa Ana can vary from around 50 psi to 100 psi across the distribution system. This fluctuation happens because of routine water system operations and peak water use times. Factors like building water softeners, plumbing restrictions, and point-of-use treatment devices can also influence water pressure on your property. The City can’t adjust water pressure at individual addresses. However, if you’re dealing with high water pressure, you can take steps to address it. For instance, you can install or replace a pressure regulator on your property to lower high water pressure.

No, homebuyers are not permitted to place the home under a trust while participating in the “My First Home” Down Payment Assistance Program.

We average out earned income by previous pay periods and project the average for the remaining pay periods of the year.

Yes. Processing time for your application will increase to account for coordination between all parties involved.

We follow HUD guidelines for our low income category and the state’s Housing and Community Development guidelines for our moderate income category.

At the opening of escrow

No, multi-family properties, including duplexes, triplexes, and properties with additional habitable units are not allowed. We only allow owner occupied residences.

Business will sign the following certifications in the application:

• I certify that I have the authority to apply for this grant on behalf of the business described herein.

• I certify that my business is for-profit and has 5 or fewer employees including all owners (full-time equivalent). I do not operate as an independent contractor. My business is not a non-profit.

• I certify that my business has a valid and active Santa Ana Business license, Certificate of Occupancy or Home Occupation Permit issued by the City of Santa Ana, and my business complies with and is not in violation of any City codes and regulations.

• I certify that my business does not sell or promote a majority of items such as alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, firearms, and/or adult entertainment.

• I certify that my business is currently operational and will be at the time of reimbursement. The grant is for businesses that intend to remain open and operational after receipt of grant.

• I agree that if approved, reimbursements will be issued for paid receipts for business expenses according to approved costs as identified by the City.

• I understand that applying for the grant is not a guarantee of funding and the City has the right to reject any and all applications.

• Funding is not transferable and other restrictions may apply.

• I understand that eligibility for this program is based on Business Owner Income Qualification (LMI) – business owner(s) must be at, or below, the low-moderate income limits set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) listed in the table provided in these grant guidelines (Section II Eligibility Requirements). Applicants must use total family household size as their measure of eligibility. If the business has more than one owner, at minimum, 51% of the ownership stake must be held by LMI qualified business owner(s).

• I agree to provide the City of Santa Ana and its employees additional documentation for audit and reporting purposes and to assess the benefits derived from participating in the program. Such information may include, but is not limited to, profit loss statements, payroll records, and income certifications of new or retained employees.

• This grant program is supported with Federal funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Community Development Block Grant Program. According to Title 18, Section 1001 of the U.S. Code, it is a felony for any person to knowingly and willingly make false or fraudulent statement to any department of the United States Government. I understand that any willful misrepresentation on this application could result in a fine and/or imprisonment under provision of the United States Criminal Code U.S.C. Title 18, Section 1001.

• By providing my electronic signature below, I certify under penalty of perjury that all the information on this application is correct to the best of my knowledge and belief, and I acknowledge that such information is subject to verification. I also acknowledge that my failure to provide necessary documents within a reasonable period of time or falsification of information shall be grounds for repayment of funds, and that I may be subject to prosecution under the law. Any violation of the program guidelines will result in the business promptly repaying the City any amount issued pursuant to this program. I authorize the release of said information to local, State and/or Federal agencies and to City of Santa Ana staff within five years of this date.

Businesses must register and obtain a Unique Entity ID Number (UEI) issued by SAM.gov. Obtaining a number for your business is FREE and is a two-step process:

(1) Sign up and select the option to Get A Unique Entity ID Only:

  • https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration

(2) Return to SAM.gov after approximately 5 business days to complete the last step of the validation process.

  • For Video Instructions select link/copy into your browser: https://youtu.be/0uv1YNAsINk
  • If you already have a Unique Entity ID number, use that number on your application. You do not need to request a new number.

An intent of the program is to connect new businesses to available resources and guidance that will help as businesses establish themselves in Santa Ana. Businesses are required to to schedule and complete a FREE business consultation with the OCIE SBDC.

  • Schedule a free consultation appointment by email at: roger.lloyd@ociesbdc.org
  • Email subject line: Business Consultation / City of Santa Ana SBIP

Small business awardees will receive the approved funding in one disbursement via an Electronic Funds Transfer or Automated Clearing House (EFT or ACH)

Applications are submitted through a link to an online portal (Neighborly) provided by the Economic Development Division. The link to the application can also be accessed from the Economic Development Small Business Incentive Program Grant webpage. The application period will remain open and until grant funding has exhausted. Fully completed applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis until grant funding has exhausted.

For general questions or assistance, please contact program staff in the City’s Economic Development Division Business Resource Hotline at 714-647-5477.

Business owners who need application assistance are encouraged to contact Gabriela Cramer for an appointment at 714-647-5385 or by email at gcramer@santa-ana.org.

The City of Santa Ana’s Economic Development Division will administer the grant program which consists of receiving, reviewing, approving grant applications, and issuing approved grant funding. During this period applicants are encouraged to ask questions and seek assistance from program staff by contacting Gabriela Cramer for an appointment at 714-647-5385 or by email at gcramer@santa-ana.org or contact the Business Resource hotline at 714-647-5477.

The grant application process is completed in 3 steps as follows:

(Step 1) Pre-Eligibility Form – Business owners will submit a Pre-Eligibility Form through an online portal (Neighborly) provided by the Economic Development Division. If determined not pre-eligible, your business will be notified. If determined pre-eligible, your business will be notified by email and invited to continue the grant application.

  • Please note: Pre-eligibility does not guarantee that a grant has been approved. Applicants must still meet full application requirements and provide the necessary documentation (Step 2).

(Step 2) Application Submission – Business owners will have two weeks to complete the full grant application and upload the required documents to the online portal (Neighborly). An email is sent to the applicant confirming that the application submission was received.

Minimum requirements for Step 2:

1) Submit copies of most recent IRS Form 1040 U.S. Individual Tax Returns or IRS Tax Transcript for ALL OWNERS and their
HOUSEHOLD FAMILY MEMBERS 18+

2) Submit a copy of current and valid Santa Ana Business License

3) Submit a copy of Certificate of Occupancy or Home Occupation Permit issued by the City of Santa Ana

4) Submit a copy of Business Owner’s State Identification Card or Driver’s License

5) No active Code Enforcement Violations (Verified by Staff)

6) Most recent Business Tax Returns (Complete IRS tax filings)

7) Most recent Quarterly Contribution Return and Report of Wages (Form DE 9) (For businesses with employees)
City of Santa Ana Page 5 of 7 Small Business Incentive Program (CDBG)

8) Most recent Quarterly Contribution Return and Report of Wages Continuation (Form DE9 C) (For businesses with employees)

9) Submit verification of completed business consultation with the Orange County Inland Empire Small Business Development Center (OCIE SBDC). An email confirming the business consultation was completed fulfills this requirement.

10) Submit copies of Business Expenses that will be reimbursed by the grant. Include invoices/receipts and proof of payment
for reimbursement of these expenses.

11) Submit verification of the Unique Entity ID Number assigned to your business. An email or screen shot from SAM.gov will
fulfill this requirement.

12) IRS Form W-9, Request for Taxpayer Identification and Certification

13) ACH Form for direct deposit to a business account and submit a copy of a voided business check.

(Step 3) Application Review/Notification of Determination – During the application review and validation of all grant requirements, business owners may be contacted by program staff for questions. Economic Development staff will notify each applicant of the final determination and whether the application was deemed eligible or not eligible to receive grant funding.

The Small Business Incentive Program grant application will remain open until funds have exhausted. Completed applications will be reviewed and approved on a first-come, first-served basis until funds have exhausted. Applications with missing, invalid or expired requirements will be deemed incomplete and will lose priority placement until the remaining requirements are received.

• Copy of valid and active of Santa Ana Business License

• Certificate of Occupancy or Home Occupation Permit issued by the City of Santa Ana

• Business Owner’s State Identification Card or Driver’s License

• No active code enforcement violations (verified by staff)

• Most recent IRS Form 1040 U.S. Individual Tax Returns, for ALL OWNERS and their HOUSEHOLD FAMILY MEMBERS 18+.

  • Obtain a free IRS Tax Transcript here: https://www.irs.gov/individuals/get-transcript

• Most recent Business Tax Returns (Complete IRS tax filings)

• Most recent Quarterly Contribution Return and Report of Wages (Form DE 9) (For businesses with employees)

• Most recent Quarterly Contribution Return and Report of Wages (Continuation Form DE9 C) (For businesses with employees)

• Verification, such as an email, of a completed business consultation with the OCIE SBDC

  • Schedule a free consultation appointment by email at: roger.lloyd@ociesbdc.org 
  • Email subject line: Business Consultation / City of Santa Ana SBIP

• Must register and obtain a free Unique Entity ID Number from SAM.gov (see Section IV.)

  • Obtain a Unique Entity ID Number here: https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration

• Invoices and receipts of business expenses, and verification of payment in the form of canceled checks, bank statements, credit card statements to receive reimbursement.

• Current signed Lease or Rental Agreement (required for reimbursement of rent expense).

• IRS Form W-9, Request for Taxpayer Identification and Certification

• ACH Form for direct deposit to a business account and submit a copy of a voided business check

This grant is issued as a reimbursement for business expenses. Copies of invoices, bills, and receipts of the business expenses, are required and must be submitted with corresponding verification of payment in the form of canceled checks, bank statements, and credit card statements are required. All expenditures must be reasonable, allowable, and necessary for the type businesses requesting the funding and subject to approval by the City.
Businesses may request reimbursement for the following eligible expenses:

• Santa Ana Business License

• Certificate of Occupancy/Home Occupation Permit

• City, County, and State fees associated with licensing and/or permitting

• Rent – 3 months (Home-based businesses not eligible)

• Utilities – 3 months (Home-based businesses not eligible)

• Commercial Kitchen Space Rent – 3 months

• Insurance

• Business Phone/Internet

• Marketing/Advertising

• Inventory/Equipment/Supplies

• Technology (Business Software, licensing, and equipment appropriate to the type of business)

• Professional Services (Tax Preparation, Bookkeeping, Payroll Services)

• Other reasonable, allowable, and necessary expenses as approved by the City

Ineligible Expenses of Grant:

• Expenses that will be reimbursed by other sources such as grants or insurance are not eligible, as this constitutes a duplication of benefits.

• Alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, adult entertainment, gambling products are not allowable expenses for reimbursement.

Businesses must meet the following eligibility requirements:
• Located in Santa Ana and in operation for no more than 3 years from the date of the application

• Must be a Microenterprise – a for-profit business with 5 or fewer employees (including all owners)

• Valid and Active Santa Ana Business License

• Valid Certificate of Occupancy or Home Occupation Permit issued by the City of Santa Ana

• Income Eligible: The business owner(s) and household family income for all family members 18+ must be within 80% of the Orange County median income limits set by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – 2023 Income Limits (Effective May 15, 2023).

    • Income is based on Adjusted Gross Income, Line 11 of most recent IRS 1040 Tax Returns

Family Size                                                                                                Income Limit

1 Person $ 80,400
2 Persons $ 91,850
3 Persons $ 103,350
4 Persons $ 114,800
5 Persons $ 124,000
6 Persons $ 133,200
7 Persons $ 142,400
8 or More Persons $ 151,550

• Complete a free business consultation with the Orange County Inland Empire Small Business Development Center (OCIE SBDC)
• Must have or obtain a free Unique Entity ID Number assigned by SAM.gov

Ineligible Businesses:
The following types of businesses are not eligible for the program:
• Businesses with active code violations or a history of multiple code enforcement violations
• Independent contractors
• Non-profit organizations
• Alcohol/Bars
• Tobacco/Vaping-related businesses
• Cannabis-related businesses
• Gambling facilities
• Adult entertainment businesses

The Small Business Incentive Program offers up to $5,000 for Santa Ana Businesses with 5 or less employees (including the owners) during the first three years in business. Funds are granted as a reimbursement for eligible business expenses. Businesses must be able to provide proof (receipts) for those expenses.

  • Up to $5,000 for businesses with a commercial/industrial/office location
    • Certificate of Occupancy Required
  • Up to $2,500 for home-based businesses
    • Home Occupation Permit Required

Individuals who will be on the title and deed of the property.

If the property being purchased was a rental property, a Seller’s Statement is required to declare that no individual was evicted before the sale.

 

 

The expected turn-around time is 30-45 days.

No, there is no course requirement for realtors or lenders.

No, we will work with any lenders who meet our requirements, outlined in the program application.

Payment is due as a lump-sum at the end of 45 years or when the property is transferred to another party. We do not accept monthly payments.

If the property is refinanced and the equity is cashed-out, we require payment of the loan in full at that time.

ADUs may be rented separately from the primary residence, but shall not be used as a short-term vacation rental. An ADU may only be sold separately from the primary building on the lot if the primary building and the ADU were built or developed by a qualified non-profit corporation in accordance with Government Code Section 65852.26 and an affordable housing agreement is entered into by the applicant and the City.

There is no minimum lot size requirement to develop an ADU as long as the proposed unit complies with all applicable standards.

Attached ADUs may be built up to the same height permitted in the underlying zoning district for the primary building. Detached ADUs may be built up to two stories not exceeding 20 feet in height. Conversion of an existing accessory structure or a portion of the existing primary residence to an ADU is not subject to height requirements.

Give us a call at (714) 571-4200.

This month-long event has varying hours to accommodate holiday schedules.  For details on hours and special activities throughout the month, make sure to visit the “Hours and Activities” tab.

No, but it is recommended.  There are limited ice-skating tickets available per session.  Purchase tickets online ahead of time to guarantee your spot.

  • Pricing:
    • Kids (3yrs -12yrs): $5 for Santa Ana residents and $10 for non-residents
    • Adults: $10 for Santa Ana residents and $15 for non-residents
    • Skate rental included in ticket purchase.
    • Skate sizes: toddler’s 7 – men’s 15
  • Ice-skating reservations and tickets are available for purchase.
    • Reservations can be rescheduled within two hours of session start time.  If skating session is cancelled due to weather, ticket holders will receive an email notification and have the ability to reschedule.

Yes. Costs are associated with special activities, such as ice-skating, food trucks, vendor merchandise and others.

General admission to the Santa Ana Winter Village is free of charge.

No. A dog’s license may not be transferred from one owner to a new owner.

No. You get one tag but must renew every year. Do NOT lose your dog’s tag and keep the receipt.

Each residence in the City of Santa Ana is limited to three (3) dogs only.

  • Resident interior remodels
  • Residential patio covers
  • Window change-outs of non-historical properties
  • Pool and/or spa
  • Installation of air conditioning condensers
  • All tenant improvements not involving a change of occupancy/use
  • Tenant improvements involving a change of occupancy/use of less than 2,500 sq. ft. and which fall under of the following uses:
    • Professional, business, and administrative offices;
    • Service uses;
    • Medical offices;
    • Restaurants/eating establishments;
    • Retail and service activities;
    • Live/work spaces;
    • Banks and financial institutions; and
    • Gymnasiums and studios operated for commercial or public purposes.
  • Parking lot improvements
  • Temporary construction trailers
  • Projects utilizing the Pre-Approved ADU Plans can only submit via electronic plan check.
  • Click here to request an electronic plan review for a new Pre-Approved ADU. Please allow up to 3 business days for our staff to process your request and respond with an email with further instruction.
  • While you wait for a response, please  ensure  you have  all  the  following  documents,  which  are required for Pre-Approved ADU Plan submittal.
    • Pre-Approved ADU Submittal Checklist, which you may use as a guide to ensure your plans meet all necessary requirements for submittal.
    • Pre-Approved ADU Application and Affidavit
    • Hold Harmless Agreement
    • Site Plan detailing the Pre-Approved Plan set utilized, all existing and proposed structures, property lines, walkways, driveways, landscaped yards, walls/fences, air conditioning units, and existing or proposed easements (minimum scale: 1 inch = 20 feet).
    • Cover Page (Title Sheet) of your chosen Pre-Approved ADU Plan must have all fillable fields completed.
    • Grading Exemption Packet shall be submitted, completed and signed along with application.
    • Copy of Recent Title Report: The Title Report must have been completed within the last six months and must include as Assessor’s Parcel Map, Grant Deed, and Legal Description for the property. The Grant Deed should indicate the owner of record signing the General Data and Affidavit form.  A Title Report can be obtained through any title company.
    • Selected Pre-Approved ADU Plans have been pre-filed and named according to the required File Naming Convention and Upload Submittal Guide , please do not alter names of documents once you have downloaded them.
  • Residential and Non-Residential Additions less than 2,500 sq. ft. (anything over 2,500 sq. ft. requires Development Project Review)
  • Residential & Non-Residential Façade Modifications
  • New Single Family Dwelling Unit
  • New Accessory Dwelling Unit/Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit
  • New Landscape Projects greater than 500 sq. ft. and Rehabilitated Landscape Projects Greater than 2,500 sq. ft.
  • Residential Front Yard Fence
  • New and Temporary Signage and Sign Programs
  • Minor Improvements to Historic Properties/Neighborhood Review (for properties located within French Park and Heninger Park)
  • Modifications to Wireless Communication Facilities
  • Tenant Improvements for Cannabis Projects, after Phase 1 and Phase 2 cannabis application

To utilize Santa Ana’s Pre-Approved ADU Plans, your property must meet the following requirements:

    • Proposed to be developed or currently developed with a single-family or two-family residence
    • Not in a flood zone
    • Not in a historical district
    • Not in an SD-19 zoning district
    • Not in a SD-40 zoning district
    • Proposed project must meet grading permit exemption requirements

Check the property information search tool to determine if your property is eligible.

  • Once the project materials are revised to reflect any missing information and are approved by the Planning Division, the Building Division will be notified that the project is ready for plan check. At that time a representative from the Building Division will contact you.
  • While waiting for the Building Division to contact you, visit the forms, applications, and handouts page to ensure all necessary documents will be ready for submittal:
    • Pre-Approved ADU Application and Affidavit
    • Hold Harmless Agreement
    • Site Plan
    • Cover Page of selected Pre-Approved ADU plan
    • Building Permit Application
    • Electrical Permit Application
    • Plumbing Permit Application
    • Mechanical Permit Application
    • Grading Permit Exemption packet
  • Upon approval of your new Pre-Approved ADU request, you will be invited (via email) to create an account and submit your project materials into a portal for review. Please follow the E-Plan Check Review Upload and Submittal Guide for file naming, size requirements and uploading instructions. You will have 5 days to upload your files after receiving your invitation.

Examine the information provided for ADUs here.

Application review, permit, and development impact fees apply to your ADU development project. Contact respective agency and departments for current fees.

 

Please check with your homeowners association. In general, HOAs cannot prohibit the construction of an ADU or JADU.

Yes, ADUs must have pedestrian access from the street.

For ADUs, one parking space is required for newly constructed units unless the unit is:

  • Within 1/2 mile of public transit.
  • Created within the area of an existing building.
  • In a historic district.
  • Not offered an on-street parking permit when one is required.
  • On the same block as a car share.
  • A studio unit.

No parking is required for a JADU. Replacement parking for a garage that is converted to an ADU is not required.

Attached ADU – An attached ADU can be built on any side of the house, but all required setbacks apply.

Detached ADU – A detached ADU is generally constructed behind the primary residence, however due to existing conditions and site constraints, they may be permitted in other areas provided all development standards are met.

Up to one ADU and one JADU per lot developed with a single-family residence. Up to two detached ADUs are allowed on properties with multifamily units and up to 25% of the existing units in the multifamily building through conversion of existing non-habitable space. JADUs are not allowed on properties developed with multifamily dwellings or multiple single-family residences.

There are generally two types of  ADUs:

 

A JADU is a residential dwelling unit that is no more than 500 square feet in area, contained entirely within a proposed or existing single-family dwelling or attached garage, and can have bath/sanitation facilities that are either separate or shared with the existing single-family dwelling.

An Accessory Dwelling Unit or ADU is an attached or detached residential dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons, is located on a parcel in conjunction with a proposed or existing principal residence and includes permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation. An ADU may also include an efficiency unit or a manufactured home.

Business Owner will certify to the following:

  • Applicant has the authority to apply for this grant on behalf of the business described herein.
  • Business Owner agrees to submit post-expense reports via an online portal, as soon as possible after expenditure of all grant funds, but no later than 6 months after receipt of the grant. Funds not expended within 6 months, will need to be repaid to the City.
  • Business Owner agrees to provide the City of Santa Ana its employees and representatives additional documentation for audit and reporting purposes and to assess the benefits derived from participating in the program. Such information may include, but is not limited to, profit loss statements, payroll records, and income certifications of new or retained employees. Business authorizes the release of said information to local, State and/or Federal agencies and to City of Santa Ana staff within five years of this date.
  • Business owner certifies that any owner with greater than 10% of the equity interest in the business does NOT meet one or more of the following criteria:
    • The owner has, within the prior three years, been convicted of or had a civil judgment rendered against the owner, or has had commenced any form of parole or probation, including probation before judgment, for commission of fraud or a criminal offense in connection with obtaining, attempting to obtain, or performing a federal, state, or local public transaction or contract under a public transaction, violation of federal or state antitrust or procurement statutes or commission of embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification or destruction of records, making false statements, or receiving stolen property.
    • The owner is presently indicted for or otherwise criminally or civilly charged by a federal, state, or local government entity, with commission of any of the offenses enumerated in clause above.
  • This grant program is supported with funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (“ARPA”) Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund (“SLFRF”), to provide monetary support to local governments to respond to, mitigate, and recover from the COVID-19 public health emergency. According to Title 18, Section 1001 of the U.S. Code, it is a felony for any person to knowingly and willingly make false or fraudulent statement to any department of the United States Government. Business understands that any willful misrepresentation on this application could result in a fine and/or imprisonment under provision of the United States Criminal Code U.S.C. Title 18, Section 1001.
  • Business Owner agrees that if awarded, the application becomes a binding contract between the Business and Business Owner and the City of Santa Ana. Any violation of the program guidelines will result in the Business and Business Owner promptly repaying the City any amount issued pursuant to this program.
  • Business Owner understands that City reserves the right to reject any and all applications.

The City encourages all businesses to connect with the Orange County Inland Empire Small Business Development Center (OCIE SBDC) for additional business resources and support.

The OCIE SBDC offers business consulting, training, and online courses to entrepreneurs and business owners at no cost.

Business owners who need assistance in completing the application are encouraged to contact the City of Santa Ana’s Economic Development:

The City of Santa Ana’s Economic Development Division will administer the grant program. The City will accept, review, approve applications, and issue grant payments.

Businesses are required to report how the funds were spent in accordance with the program requirements via a city provided portal and will need to provide the following:

  • Certification regarding the use of grant funds will be required
  • Documentation of the paid grant expenses (canceled checks, bank statements, credit card transactions) to document the authorized expenditures (past due rent and/or debt).

Post-expense reports are due as soon as possible after expenditure of all grant funds, but no later than 6 months after receipt of the grant. Funds not expended within 6 months, will need to be repaid to the City.

Funds will be disbursed to eligible approved applicants after the close of the application period with Priority 1 applicants receiving the first round of funding. This will be followed by additional rounds to fund businesses in priority order until funds are exhausted.

Grant recipients will receive the approved funding in one disbursement via and Electronic Funds Transfer or Automated Clearing House (EFT or ACH).

Applicants will receive email notifications of grant approvals and grant of disbursements.

Applications will be reviewed on a first come first serve basis, and funded through the following priority groups until funds are exhausted:

Businesses that HAVE NOT received previous *City grant funding:

  • Priority 1) Businesses that experienced a 20% or more decrease in revenue from 2019 to 2020 and that have not received *City grant funding since the pandemic commenced.
  • Priority 2) Businesses that experienced any decrease in revenue from 2019 to 2020 and that have not received *City grant funding since the pandemic commenced.

Businesses that HAVE received previous *City grant funding:

  • Priority 3) Businesses that experienced a 20% or more decrease in revenue from 2019 to 2020 and that have received City grant funding since the pandemic commenced.
  • Priority 4) Businesses that experienced any decrease in revenue from 2019 to 2020 and that have received *City grant funding since the pandemic commenced.

*City grant funding in this reference excludes the Revive Santa Ana Business Program $1,000 grants. Businesses that have received these grants are still eligible for priority 1 and 2.

The grant application will be available from June 15 through August 15. A second application period may open if funds are remaining after all approved applications are funded.

Grant funds may be used for the following:

  • Payment of past due rent and fees. Past due rent and fees must be documented at the time of application with a lease agreement and one of the following:
    • Invoice from the leasing company/property owner;
    • Official letter from the leasing company/property owner or;
    • Rent ledger from leasing agent/property owner
  • Payment of business operating expenses that were placed on a business loans/credit cards. Loans and credit card debt must be documented at the time of the application with the following:
    • Credit Cards: 1) Credit card statements demonstrating operating expenses to pay, and 2) most current credit card statement documenting outstanding debt.
    • Loans: Bank account records demonstrating 1) loan deposits, 2) operating expenses to pay, and 3) most current loan statement documenting current outstanding debt.

The maximum grant amount is limited to the documented loss of revenue, not to exceed $25,000.

Ineligible Expenses of Grant:

  • Expenses that have been or will be reimbursed by forgivable loans, grants or other funding sources
  • Expense not eligible through from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) through U.S. Department of Treasury Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF).
  • Expenses to fund any business other than that which is receiving the grant

Businesses must meet the following eligibility requirements:

  • For-profit business located in Santa Ana in operation as of 2018
  • Valid and Active Santa Ana Business License
  • Valid Certificate of Occupancy (if required by the City)
  • Business owner identification
  • Must be a small business documented at the time of application by having 25 full-time equivalent (FTE) employees or less
  • Must have a brick and mortar location/physical location in Santa Ana
  • Must have been in operation at the current location as 2018 and provide documentation via one of the following:
  • Santa Ana Business License
  • Certificate of Occupancy
  • Commercial Lease Agreement
  • Business Tax Returns
  • Must document the loss in revenue through the complete annual IRS business income tax filings. IRS Business Tax filings must include the following forms:
    • For sole proprietors and single member LLC’s (IRS Form 1040 Schedule C)
    • For partnerships (IRS Form 1065)
    • For S-Corporations (IRS Form 1120-S)
    • For C-Corporations (IRS Form 1120)
    • LLCs should follow the instructions that apply to their tax filing status in the reference periods
  • A business cannot receive more in grant funding than the total revenue loss

 Businesses approved for funding must provide the City the following prior to funding:

  • Unique Entity ID (UEI): Business must be registered and obtain a Unique Entity ID (UIE) through SAM.gov. Visit the following link to register or look up the business UEI: https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration
  • City Vendor Forms, IRS form W-9, and IRS  form 4506-C
  • ACH form for direct deposit of grant funds to a business account.

Ineligible Businesses:

The following types of businesses are not eligible for the program:

  • Businesses that have received City of Santa Ana business grant funding that exceeds the loss of revenue are not eligible
  • Businesses without a physical location in Santa Ana
  • Home based businesses
  • Independent contractors
  • Passive businesses and investment companies and investors who file a Schedule E on their personal tax returns
  • Businesses engaged in any activity that is illegal under federal, state, or local law
  • Businesses engaged in financial or lending activities, and leasing
  • Commercial or residential rental businesses
  • Businesses with active code enforcement violations
  • Businesses with 25 or more full-time equivalent (FTE) employees
  • Businesses with any owner of greater than 10% of the equity interest that meets either of the following:
    • The owner has, within the prior three years, been convicted of or had a civil judgment rendered against the owner, or has had commenced any form of parole or probation, including probation before judgment, for commission of fraud or a criminal offense in connection with obtaining, attempting to obtain, or performing a federal, state, or local public transaction or contract under a public transaction, violation of federal or state antitrust or procurement statutes or commission of embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification or destruction of records, making false statements, or receiving stolen property.
    • The owner is presently indicted for or otherwise criminally or civilly charged by a federal, state, or local government entity, with commission of any of the offenses enumerated in clause above.

For the Pass-Through Commodity Charge Table Click here.

You can find out when our Main Library and Newhope Library are open by viewing our schedule.

A library card is free for California residents. You’ll need to bring a photo ID and proof of address. If you’re a Santa Ana Unified School District student, you can use your student ID as a library card. If you’re younger than 14, you must be accompanied by a parent.

Learn more about how to get a library card.

Our employees are our greatest asset, and we seek individuals who are excited about a challenge, are creative, and dare to make a difference. We are a results-driven team who care about each other and the needs of residents in our community. If you think you’d be a good fit for our organization, check out our available jobs and apply. To sign up for notifications regarding new jobs, you may do so here.

The City’s bid management system allows vendors to register online, receive automated email notification of solicitations for goods and services pertinent to their businesses, obtain bid documents and specifications, submit bids online, and view bid results. Vendors must be registered in the system in order to download bid documents and submit bids online.

A bid valued at $25,000 and over, are solicited via competitive, sealed Invitations For Bid (IFB), which are accessible from the City’s e-Procurement portal. Bids are awarded to the lowest responsible and responsive bidder meeting the City’s specifications.

Informal bids, valued less than $25,000, require competitive bidding. At their discretion, buyers may solicit quotes via phone, fax, or internet. Bids are awarded to successful vendors based upon their ability to provide maximum quality goods and services at a minimum price. To ensure your quotation is evaluated fairly, all written quotes should include the following:

  • Item cost
  • Delivery cost
  • Applicable taxes
  • Delivery lead time
  • Vendor contact name and phone number and/or e-mail address

Anyone working on a public works project must be paid prevailing wages as determined by the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR). Projects of $1,000 or more must meet DIR’s apprenticeship requirements. Failure to comply with public works requirements can result in civil penalties, criminal prosecution, or both. Any contractor responding to and subcontractors listed on a bid must have a valid DIR registration at the time a bid is submitted. Public works in general means: 

  • Construction, alteration, demolition, installation, or repair work (including maintenance) done under contract and paid in whole or in part out of public funds.
  • It can include preconstruction and post-construction activities related to a public works project. For a full definition of public works project refer to Labor Code section 1720

 

If you are interested in these services, please visit our website.

Residential City streets are swept every week and are posted with the day and time of the sweeping schedule. View the street sweeping schedule map on our website to find out when your street is swept.

It is illegal to park on the street during the scheduled sweeping times. Vehicles parked on the street when the sweeper passes will receive a parking citation. It is illegal to park vehicles on residential lawns, even on street sweeping day.

Streets are not swept on City holidays and are not rescheduled for sweeping the following day. City Holidays are New Year’s day, Martin Luther King Day, Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veteran’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, the day following Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and the last working day before Christmas day or, if Christmas Day falls on Thursday, the Friday following Christmas Day. Holidays which fall on a Sunday will be observed on the following Monday and holidays which fall on a Saturday will be observed on the Friday preceding the Holiday. For questions, please visit our Street Sweeping webpage or call (714) 647-3380.

We typically only cancel street sweeping due to bad weather. If we cancel street sweeping, we will send an alert through our City website’s news feed, on City social media, through subscribed email alerts, and by push notification from the mySantaAna app.

You can also call us at (714) 647-3380 to find out if street sweeping is canceled.

The City has two senior centers, the Santa Ana Senior Center and the Southwest Senior Center. To learn more about senior services and hours, visit the Parks and Recreation senior services webpage.

Yes a variety of programs are offered for youth and teens ages 5-17 years of age. To learn more, visit the Parks and Recreation youth and teens webpage.

Yes – there are five public pools. Visit the Parks and Recreation’s website for more details.

Swimming lessons will be available Summer 2023 as aquatic programs return to the City of Santa Ana. To learn more, visit the Parks and Recreation aquatics webpage.

Yes – there are seasonal adult sports programs offered. Visit the Parks and Recreation sports webpage for more information.

Yes we offer over 300 classes and programs per season. Current classes open for registrations are available on the City of Santa Ana’s CivicRec webpage.

The City houses five community gardens. To learn more about local community garden locations and hours visit the Parks and Recreation community gardens webpage.

To learn more about our employment opportunities, please visit the “Join the team” webpage.

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