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Applications, Licenses, and Permits

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.

Public Works permits are required for construction or improvements within the public right-of-way (such as streets, sidewalks, and parkways). For all building and construction projects located on private property, please visit the Building & Safety Permit Page.

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

To apply for any of the permits below, register and apply via the Accela Citizen Portal.

Permits Available

  • Mechanical Permit – Apply online
  • Electrical Permit – Apply online
  • Plumbing Permit – Apply online
  • Building Permit – Apply online
  • Sewer Permit – Apply online
  • Demolition Permit – Apply online
  • Solar Permit – Apply online
  • SolarAPP+ – Hybrid (External application with City review)

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

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

To apply for any of the permits listed below, register and apply via the Accela Citizen Portal.

Permits Available

Design Review

Zoning & Land Use

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

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

Directory and Information

Public Works

Offers permits primarily related to public infrastructure and right-of-way work, as well as associated environmental and operational permits.

Building and Safety

Offers permits that ensure structural integrity, life safety, and code compliance for construction-related work.

Planning and Zoning

Offers permits that regulate how property is used and whether activities are allowed in a specific zoning district.

Fire & Safety

Offers permits to ensure activities, properties, and buildings comply with fire safety rules and minimize risk of fires or hazards.

Community Use & Events

Offers permits and registrations that allow the use public facilities, parks, streets, or neighborhoods for special activities, gatherings, or events.

Administrative & City Clerk

Offers permits and registrations for activities or general responsibilities that require city oversight or compliance.

Important: A City Business License is required before applying for or pulling any community, construction, or contractor-related permits. 

Contact Us

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

(626) 355-7135

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