The solar project is not funded by rate increases.

• Built through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with minimal upfront cost to the City.
• The City simply pays for the electricity the panels produce at a locked-in rate.
• This project is projected to save about $460,000 in the first year and millions over 20 years by reducing PG&E costs.

The 5-year plan funds $81 million in water projects and $58 million in sewer projects, using a combination of rate revenues, development impact fees and approved grant funding. These projects include:

• Chromium-6 treatment facilities (state-mandated in April 2024, ~$36 million)
• Improvements to water and sewer facilities such as well sites, water booster pump stations and sewer lift stations
• Ongoing repair & replacement of existing aging system pipelines and water meters to maintain reliability 

To balance the need for financial sustainability with customer concerns about affordability, rate increases have been implemented below the recommended levels. This approach aims to reduce the immediate financial impact on ratepayers, but as a result, not all future system costs will be funded.

The Cites of Vallejo, Fairfield, Vacaville, Suisun City, Dixon and Rio Vista and the unincorporated areas of Solano County. 

The City of Benicia has their own notification system that uses the same platform. They have integrated additional notification systems including sirens and broadcast radio. If you live in Benicia, you can sign up at AlertBenicia.com 

If you have any questions you can email us at AlertSolano@SolanoCounty.com 

Dog license applications can be obtained from the following Vacaville locations:

• Vacaville City Hall - Finance counter, 650 Merchant Street
•  Vacaville Police Department - Lobby, 660 Merchant Street
•  Solano SPCA, 2200 Peabody Road

 Enclose a copy of your dog's rabies vaccination certificate, the renewal form, your payment (check or money order) and mail to: Solano County Dog Licensing 4160 Suisun Valley Rd, Ste E428 Suisun City, CA 94585 You may pay for your dog's license in person at the address below. Make sure you call first, verifying their hours (707) 784-1356. Solano County Animal Care Services 2510 Clay Bank Road Fairfield, CA 94533 You may also renew your dog's license online.

If you find a stray dog or cat, you can contact the Solano County Animal Shelter located at 2510 Clay Bank Road, Fairfield or call Humane Animal Services at (707) 449-1700 (open 7 days a week).

For animals in unincorporated parts of Solano County, (707) 784-1356, and on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, call Sheriff's Dispatch at (707) 421-7090.

The CFD special tax rates are calculated at the time of formation based on the cost of providing public safety services, less revenue generated by the development of the property. The net unfunded cost is used to establish the CFD special tax rates.

Current, comprehensive tax information is available through the Solano County Tax Assessor’s website by typing the home’s address into the search bar. Below, you will also find a link to an interactive map of the City’s current CFD boundaries detailing the properties/parcels within Vacaville’s CFD areas.

The special taxes are levied annually as part of each parcel’s property tax bill and are subject to an annual inflation adjustment. The taxes do not expire, but continue in perpetuity.

A CPI adjustment is applied to the CFD tax rate annually. For CFDs 8-12 the City uses the Bureau of Labor Statistics CPI series for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward (CWURS49BSA0). For CFD 1 the CPI series adopted at formation and applied annually is All Urban Consumers San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward (CUURS49BSA0). These data sets were chosen due to Vacaville's proximity to the regions  included in the BLS analysis and Solano County's status as a Bay Area County. Current year, and historical data, for both data sets is available at the BLS website.  

When property is sold, the seller is responsible for providing a Notice of Special Tax to the buyer. This document is one of the many signed during the escrow process

A Community Facilities District, or CFD, is a special financing district that provides a mechanism for funding specific services. In Vacaville, CFDs are generally used to fund public safety services in areas that are added to the City and transitioning from vacant property to residential development.

The special taxes collected contribute to the funding of the additional police and fire services required to serve the property within the CFD.

To qualify for consideration for an assignment in the City Aide Program, an individual:

1. Must actively be receiving services from North Bay Regional Center (NBRC).
2. Must be at least 18 years of age.
3. Must demonstrate a willingness to work in the community and learn new work skills.
4. Must meet the qualifications and requirements of the assignment.
5. Must pass, at a minimum, a California DOJ/FBI live scan and physical, as required.

Vacaville Municipal Code Section 14.09.260.100.B.4.c requires that digital billboards not operate at a brightness of more than 0.3 foot candles above ambient light. Additionally, digital billboards must incorporate techniques such as recessed illumination and automatic dimming devices to ensure that the light exhibited by the billboard does not impair the safety of travelers on the freeway and the surrounding area. Malfunctioning digital billboards must also be capable of being remotely shut off.

In addition to the requirements outlined in the ordinance, future digital billboards must also comply with all applicable State and Federal regulations.

The City will begin accepting applications for digital freeway billboards on August 22, 2024. All development applications must be submitted in-person or via mail to Vacaville City Hall. Applications must include a completed Master Planning Application, the required application fees, and all required submittal items identified in the submittal checklist.

The Planning Division highly recommends reaching out to a planner prior to submitting an application to ensure a smooth application process. Please feel free to contact a planner by phone at (707) 449-5140 or by email.

Digital billboards require approval of a Conditional Use Permit (CUP), Major Design Review (DR), and Development Agreement (DA), which are subject to review by the Planning Commission and approval by the Vacaville City Council. Applications for new or converted digital billboards must participate in a DA, and applications must include clear provisions that result in substantial benefits to the community, such as the removal or relocation of existing static billboards; one-time installation fees with ongoing revenue-sharing; and/or community beautification.

Submitted applications are reviewed for completeness in accordance with the submittal checklist. Projects that are missing required information would be deemed incomplete and issued a completeness and design comments letter within 30 days of the submittal date.

As part of the application review, the City will evaluate applications to determine compliance with objective design standards, provisions for community benefits, and consistency with required findings. These include that the billboard (1) will not create a hazard to vehicular or pedestrian traffic; (2) will comply with State and Federal law; (3) will provide public benefits to Vacaville through a Development Agreement that offset the billboard's impacts; and (4) will have a design that reflects Vacaville's identity, character, and history. Billboards that fail to meet these findings, and/or fail to provide substantial community benefits will not be recommended for approval.

The ordinance outlines minimum design standards that all digital billboards must achieve. For example, all digital billboards must have City identification, such as the word 'Vacaville,' the words 'City of Vacaville,' or the City logo. Additionally, all billboard structures must incorporate Vacaville-specific designs and themes, such as golden hills, biotechnology, and/or agriculture.

The Digital Freeway Billboards Ordinance also updated the Vacaville Gateways Master Plan, which provides standards to create a unique and memorable visual experience along the Interstate 80 and Interstate 505 freeway corridors. The updated plan revised policies regarding digital billboards, adding Policy G1-2, which allows digital billboards if they enhance the freeway experience and provide offsetting community benefits. The design of new digital billboards and the landscaping surrounding billboard structures must be designed in compliance with the Vacaville Gateways Master Plan.

The ordinance also defines objective design standards for digital billboards, such as the maximum dimensions of the sign, the maximum number of sign faces, and the maximum height allowed.

New digital billboards are only potentially allowed in two areas in Vacaville through an entitlement process including a Development Agreement:

• Interstate 80 between Leisure Town Road and Midway Road
• Interstate 505 (west side only) between Vaca Valley Parkway and Midway Road
• Digital billboards are not allowed along Interstate 505 within the Nut Tree Airport Area of Influence (AIA). New digital billboards along Interstate 80 within the AIA must be referred to the ALUC for a consistency determination. Signs are only allowed in Commercial and Employment zoning districts.
• The billboard must be at least 3,000 feet away from another digital billboard and cannot be located within 300 feet of any residences or lodging, such as hotels or motels.

All proposals to establish new digital billboards or convert existing billboards must include the removal of at least three static (standard) billboard structures or four sign faces, whichever is greater.

Alternatively, if a digital billboard applicant does not have sufficient existing billboard structures or sign faces to meet the minimum removal ratio, an applicant may offer additional community benefits that offset the impacts of the project proposal. For example, a billboard applicant may choose to offer additional funding for parks, city beautification, or infrastructure.

A letter was sent out to all residents who were in the top 20% of residential water users in Vacaville in 2016 to inform them about the free residential survey program offered in partnership with the Solano County Water Association (SCWA). This same program is also available to any resident in the City.

For any additional questions or concerns regarding the residential letter or your water use, you may call (707) 469-6400. To schedule an appointment for a free residential survey, please call (707) 410-5469.  

The City currently does not have a greywater program but is looking into the possibilities of establishing a pilot program. Because there are public health issues associated with the use of greywater, it will be important to ensure that the right plumbing components are utilized to transport the gray water from the washing machine inside the home to an outdoor garden that can receive the water. Also, the resident will be required to undergo specific training in the installation and usage of the greywater system.

We will continue to provide the latest information as it becomes available on the possible use of greywater on outdoor gardens and landscapes.

The Water Efficient Landscape Rebate program is funded through a state and federal grant that currently does not support the installation of artificial turf as a qualifying replacement for lawn. Accordingly, artificial turf is not eligible for the Water Efficient Landscape Rebate Program. 

You may review this artificial turf information sheet for more information.

Yes, residents in Solano County should be signed up to receive emergency notifications via Alert Solano. Zone names will be used in Alert Solano notifications, so it is important to #KnowYourZone.

Sign up to receive emergency notifications at Alert Solano.

For specific questions, you can call Mindy Boele, the Utilities Water Quality Manager at 707-469-6430. The City of Vacaville’s most recent Water Quality Report can be found: Reports and Plans | Vacaville, CA

There is additional information available at the State Water Resources Control Board website: Hexavalent Chromium (Chromium-6) | California State Water Resources Control Board

To receive rental assistance under the Section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Program, families whose annual income as of 4/1/2025 does not exceed the following are eligible:

Family of:

You can request assistance at the City of Vacaville Human Resources located at 650 Merchant Street, Vacaville. You may also call the City of Vacaville at (707) 449-5101 during our business hours of 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM, Monday through Friday. Please note that we are open every other Friday.

For questions and support with the Governmentjobs.com or Neogov website please contact their customer support at (855) 524-5627.

It is the policy of the City of Vacaville that all employment decisions and personnel policies will be applied equally to all City employees and applicants and be based upon the needs of City service, job related merit, and ability to perform the job.

APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES: Qualified individuals with a disability, who are able to perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation, and need an accommodation during any phase of the recruitment/testing/examination process must contact Human Resources at (707) 449-5101 or jobs@cityofvacaville.com to request accommodation. The request must be received no later than one (1) business day after the final filing date. Applicants will be contacted to discuss the specifics of the request.

If the recruitment requires documentation to be submitted with your application (such as DMV printout, typing certificate, certifications, DD214 information, etc.), these can be submitted in one of several ways*:

1. Scanned in as an attachment with your online application (you do this when you apply); or
2. Faxed to Human Resources at (707) 449-5306; or
3. Delivered/mailed to the City of Vacaville Human Resources, 650 Merchant St., Vacaville, CA 95688

* The City of Vacaville is not responsible for problems associated with mail service/delivery and/or fax or computer-related problems.  Postmarks will not be accepted.

If you wish to receive notification when a job you are interested in becomes available, click here: Job Notification Request and follow the online directions.

You can also LIKE the City’s Facebook Page.

Visit Job Opportunities to access current opening (open to the public) or promotional opportunities (for City Employees only).  You may also access specific department recruitment pages as well. A list of available positions can be viewed 24 hours a day; 7 days a week from any computer with Internet access.

Yes, residents in Solano County should be signed up to receive emergency notifications via Alert Solano. Zone names will be used in Alert Solano notifications, so it is important to #KnowYourZone.

Sign up to receive emergency notifications at Alert Solano.

The Housing Authority conducts a rent reasonableness survey to ensure the requested rent is comparable to similar units in the area and consistent with what is charged for unassisted units. Additionally, at initial lease-up, the tenant’s portion of rent cannot exceed 40% of their income for the Vacaville Housing Authority, and cannot exceed 50% of their income for the Solano County Housing Authority.

State Rent Cap (AB 1482)
Under California’s Tenant Protection Act (AB 1482), most residential rentals are subject to annual rent-increase limits. From September 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026, landlords may raise rent by no more than 7.7% over a 12 month period (5% plus local CPI), unless the property is exempt. Exemptions include newer buildings, owner-occupied duplexes, and certain single-family homes. Landlords must follow these state guidelines at lease renewals.

Learn More
For full details, see the official state resource on AB 1482’s rent‑cap and eviction rules: the California Department of Justice.

https://oag.ca.gov/consumers/general/landlord-tenant-issues

If you are involved in, or see, a traffic collision and someone is injured, call 911 to report the emergency. If you are involved in the accident, you will be making a collision report to the officers that respond. Both police officers and community services officers are trained to document traffic collisions.

If no one is injured in the collision, and the vehicles are drivable, move from the roadway to a safe place. You may call our non-emergency number, (707) 449-5200, to report the collision. In some cases exchanging names, driver's license and vehicle license numbers, addresses, insurance carrier information, and accident details is sufficient. If an officer responds, the officer can help make sure that the information is correct, and issue a case number. If no officer responds, you can obtain a "do-it-yourself" traffic collision kit from the police department at 660 Merchant Street during business hours. Help will be available at the department for completion of your report.

All vendors must have:

• A City of Vacaville Business License, and
• If selling food or drinks, a Solano County Environmental Health Permit.

Vendors should have their license and permit visible. If they cannot produce them upon request, they may not be in compliance.

Yes. However, once you create an account, you may build an application and submit that application for multiple jobs by clicking on the ‘Populate’ button to automatically populate the new application with information from your previously created application. Review and update your application as necessary. Once your account is created, applying for open recruitments is quick and easy.

To check on the status of a particular recent recruitment you may also login at www.governmentjobs.com and then click on Application Status to see the status of your submitted applications. You may also contact the Human Resources Department at 707-449-5101.

Submitted applications cannot be edited. If the recruitment is still open and you would like to turn in supplemental items or have a change in contact information, please contact Human Resources at (707) 449-5101 during business hours of 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM, Monday through Friday for guidance. Please note that we are open every other Friday.

If you submitted electronically, you will receive an email confirmation shortly after submission. To verify the positions you’ve submitted applications for, login to: www.governmentjobs.com using your user ID and password. Then click on Application Status to view the status of your submitted applications.

All application materials (including resumes and supplemental documentation) must be received by the posted close time and date. Late application materials will not be considered. The Human Resources Department is not responsible for failure of other agencies, internet service providers or postal services to forward applications by the deadline.

If at any time you need to exit out of the application form, click the Save button at the bottom of the form. All of the information that you have inputted up to that point will be stored. You can return to your application later by logging into your account with your Username and Password.

On average, allow approximately 30-45 minutes to complete your application.

We encourage you to complete each part of the application in detail. You can add additional work history and education as needed. Please start with most recent experience/educational information when prioritizing your information. Each time you input information, you will need to click on the Save & View Application button. If the system is inactive over 30 minutes, it will automatically log you off and will only keep information from the last time you clicked on Save & View Application. For additional details click Online Employment Application Guide on the initial page after clicking Apply.

To set up your own personal “user account” to apply online go to: www.governmentjobs.com. Then click on Create an Account Here. [c3] Fill in the form and then click the Save button to set up your own personal account. Your account in now active and you can create an application.

Another way to set up an account is through the APPLY button on all open job announcements.  From there, you can log-in to an existing account, create a new account (if you don’t have one already) and view additional online employment application tips.

For questions and support with the Governmentjobs.com or Neogov website please contact their customer support at (855) 524-5627.

Remember to keep a record of your username and password once you have set up an account. You will need it to apply for other positions or to check the status of your application and when you re-enter the system, you will need to input this information exactly as it was originally entered.

To apply online you must create an email account.  Email is our primary method of communication with applicants. There are a number of free email services available to the general public. Though we cannot endorse any particular vendor, you may want to follow these links for more information:  Gmail, Yahoo Mail.

YES.  IMPORTANT! User accounts are established for one person only and should not be shared with another person or email address. Multiple applications with multiple users and email addresses may jeopardize your status in the recruitment process for any positions you apply for.

There are a number of ways to access the City of Vacaville website:

• Free computers are available for use at all Vacaville City and Solano County Public Libraries. Evening and weekend hours are available. Click here  http://www.solanolibrary.com/locations to see a listing of branches and their hours. Be prepared to sign up to use a computer and be aware that there may be a time limit.

• Family and friends may also have Internet access available for you to use.
  
  
• Paper applications can still be requested in person at the Human Resources Department or by calling (707) 449-5101. Paper applications can be submitted via hand-deliver to Human Resources at 650 Merchant St., Vacaville, CA 95688, mailed to this address or faxed to (707) 449-5306. All applications must be received by the final filing date noted on the posting.

You will be asked to provide personal information such as name, address, phone number, etc.  You will also be asked to provide information about your education, employment history, and references.  An email address will also be required. You will shorten the time it takes to complete your application if you gather this information before beginning the online process.

All information is maintained on a secure web server. Only Human Resources and other City department users authorized to review specific information related to job openings will have access. The City of Vacaville does not share its database with other companies or localities.

Park Bench application

The City of Vacaville Memorial Bench Dedication Program provides the opportunity for members of the community to honor a loved one while also enhancing the beauty and utility of our parks. Please read the Memorial Bench Dedication Program on this application before submitting. 

You will need to create a Public User account.

• Navigate to https://vcvll.csqrcloud.com/community-etrakit
• Click on 'Setup an Account' at the top
• Click on 'PUBLIC REGISTRATION'
• Fill out your information

In Vacaville, pedestrian signals are included at any signalized intersection that is intended to accommodate pedestrian traffic. Pedestrian signals are carefully designed to provide reasonable time for crossing a specific street safely. Transportation engineers around the world are moving towards symbol signs in place of word signs. Symbols are easier for people to comprehend in a shorter amount of time, and do not present a language barrier for non-English speaking pedestrians. Pedestrian signal indications should be interpreted in the following manner:

1. A steady white color WALKING PERSON (symbolizing WALK) signal indication means that you may begin crossing. (In Vacaville, the “WALK” indications typically displays for 6 seconds).
2. A flashing orange color UPRAISED HAND (symbolizing DON’T WALK) signal indication means it is too late to leave the curb; however, any pedestrian already off the curb may proceed across to a sidewalk or safety island. In Vacaville, the duration of the flashing display is determined using the distance that the pedestrian has to cross, typically with a standard walking rate of 4 feet per second.
3. A steady orange color UPRAISED HAND (symbolizing DON’T WALK) signal indication is a warning to pedestrians not to leave the curb enter the roadway as cross traffic will be receiving a green light to proceed.

Pedestrians should only leave the curb during the “WALK” period. Once the pedestrian signal changes to a steady burning “DON’T WALK” it is no longer safe for a pedestrian to be in the crosswalk. Regardless of what the symbol shows on the pedestrian signal, pedestrians should be cautious when crossing busy intersections.

The City of Vacaville receives many requests for installing crosswalks on City streets. Crosswalks can either be "marked" with painted lines of white or yellow, or left "unmarked" at an intersection.

The purpose of a "marked" crosswalk is to encourage pedestrians to use a particular crossing. Normally, crosswalks are "marked" at places where there is an abundance of pedestrian movement, at a signal, and where pedestrians cannot recognize a proper place to cross. However, if "marked" crosswalks are not frequently used by pedestrians, then drivers tend to forget that they exist. As a result, accidents can occur when pedestrians rely on crosswalks to provide them with a safe barrier from traffic.

It is the City's policy not to install "marked" crosswalks mid-block (between intersections), except where the crosswalk is in front of, or directly adjacent to, schools. These crosswalks are painted yellow and imited to those locations where a crossing guard is posted during school hours.

As an added note.....National studies have shown that marked crosswalks actually increase the risk to pedestrians crossing the street. In these studies, it was found that pedestrians are given a false sense of security at "marked" crosswalks, and tend to blindly cross the street, trusting the crosswalk to keep them out of harm's way. As such, it is important that pedestrians remain attentive and cautious of on-coming vehicles on a roadway before crossing a street, regardless of the presence, or lack of, a crosswalk.

The purpose of a traffic signal is to assign right-of-way to opposing movements of traffic at an intersection. As such, it may be necessary to install a traffic signal if the traffic volume increases and four-way stop signs do not lessen problems. However, improperly placed traffic signals can cause an increase in traffic accidents, particularly rear end collisions. And, pedestrians can gain a false sense of security from crosswalks and red lights, which may result in an increase in pedestrian accidents.

Before installing a traffic signal at an intersection, traffic engineers have to evaluate the following questions:

1. Does the volume of vehicles entering an intersection create confusion or congestion?
2. Is there so much traffic on main streets that it may be dangerous for traffic on side streets to cross? Are accidents the result of this condition?
3. Is there an increasing demand for pedestrians to cross main streets?
4. Does the number of school children crossing a busy street create confusion, congestion, or hazardous conditions?
5. Will the installation of a signal reduce overall congestion?
6. Does the accident history indicate that a signal will reduce the number of accidents at an intersection?

Traffic engineers use national standards to evaluate an intersection that may need a traffic signal. Properly placing traffic signals will decrease accidents and improve traffic flow.

Traffic engineers and technicians are constantly upgrading the signal systems in the City. Traffic flow is being improved on major arterials in Vacaville by coordinating traffic signals, which will allow vehicles to travel along the signalized streets with fewer stops. If you think there is an intersection that should be studied for a traffic signal; or, if you notice an existing traffic signal that is not operating correctly, please contact the Traffic Engineering Division at (707) 449-5170.

Park Bench application

The City of Vacaville Memorial Bench Dedication Program provides the opportunity for members of the community to honor a loved one while also enhancing the beauty and utility of our parks. Please read the Memorial Bench Dedication Program on this application before submitting. 

The Payment Standard is used to calculate the housing assistance payment for a family. In accordance with HUD regulations, and at the SCHA's discretion, the Voucher Payment Standard amount is set by the SCHA between 90 percent and 110 percent of the HUD published Fair Market Rent (FMR). This is considered the basic range. 

The Payment Standard is used to calculate the housing assistance payment for a family. In accordance with HUD regulations, and at the VHA's discretion, the Voucher Payment Standard amount is set by the VHA between 90 percent and 110 percent of the HUD published Fair Market Rent (FMR). This is considered the basic range.

• 4 hours training session for business owners and/or managers
• On-site CPTED evaluation with recommendations
• Follow-up evaluation with certification

• Direct access to Vacaville Police Department's Community Response Unit (CRU)
• Tailored security and safety evaluation(s) specific to your business
• Continual updates on the latest safety tips and information on local crime
• Invitations to Safe Business events and meetings
• Free materials, including Safe Business decals
• Increased customer volume - safety equals business!

To receive rental assistance under the Section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Program, families whose annual income as of 4/1/2025 does not exceed the following are eligible:

Family of:

You may only apply during an open application period.

Remember - It is your responsibility to inform the VHA/SCHA of changes in address, family composition or preferences. If the VHA/SCHA is not able to reach you by mail, your name will be removed from the waiting list.

Applying for a waitlist is available online by accessing the link included in the Public Notice. If you do not have access to a computer, you may visit one of the locations listed below, which provide free access to computers and the internet.

Assistance includes locating the website designated to apply for the Waitlist and setting up a free email account and if needed, to complete the application. They may also address questions and provide a brief overview of the process to support accurate and timely completion of the application.

If you do not have a library card, you may request one-time access to use the computers. A form of photo identification will be required, which may include, but is not limited to, a state-issued driver’s license or ID, a DMV printout, an expired photo ID, or a photo membership card such as a Costco card.

In addition to offering free computer and internet access, the organizations listed below will also be available to assist with completing the online application.

For more information, please feel free to contact the Waitlist Information Line at (707) 449-5638; TTY Only (707) 449-5680

While it is highly unlikely that smoke will enter your home, for your peace of mind, you may consider making other arrangements prior to the test to help avoid any confusion or alarm to elderly people with the respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, or emphysema.  The smoke is non-toxic and is most often used in testing household plumbing.  The manufacturer’s safety sheets for the smoke are available to all upon request.  Use the number listed on the notice to request notification immediately prior to the test.

When you receive notice that smoke testing will take place, you should:

• Check to see that all drain traps under basins, washing facilities and floor drains contain water; simply flush toilets and run or pour water into all drains, including unused fixtures and floor drains.
• Plug the floor drains if you are remodeling your bathroom and the toilet is not connected. Also, tightly seal the washing machine drain line with a wet or damp rag.
• If there is an individual in your home or business who has respiratory problems and/or mobility limitations, or if you have any additional questions, contact Utilities Department at (707) 469-6400.

• Do Not Become Alarmed
• Open windows to allow ventilation and note the location of the smoke emission; smoke will clear within a few minutes
• Exit the building and notify smoke testing personnel in the area or call (707) 469-6400. Our staff will take your information.

Since plumbing fixtures in your home or business are connected to the sanitary sewer system, there is the potential for the smoke to enter if the drains are not connected properly. This happens particularly under the following circumstances:

• The vents connected to your building's sewer pipes are inadequate, defective or improperly installed
• The traps under sinks, tubs, basins, showers and other drains are dry, defective or improperly installed
• The pipes, connections or seals in the wastewater drain system in and/or under your building are damaged, defective, have plugs missing or improperly installed

It is unlikely, provided that your plumbing is installed and functioning properly, and provided "traps" are filled with water. Drains that are used frequently should be okay.

It is recommended to plug the floor drains if you are remodeling your bathroom and the toilet is not connected. Also, tightly seal the washing machine drain line with a wet rag.

If you are not sure, simply run water down the drain for a minute to ensure that the trap is not dry. It is important to locate dry traps as they could allow sewer gases to enter the home. Dry traps are most commonly found in basement floor drains that are used only during rare flood events or in unused fixtures. Please thoroughly check your home.

If you have an alarm company, you may want to notify them as the smoke detector could be set off by the smoke.

No. The "smoke" is not true smoke. It will not harm your health or leave a stain and will disappear rapidly without leaving an odor.
If the smoke enters your home, it may make you cough, but the smoke is:

• Non-toxic
• Non-staining with a distinct odor
• Harmless to humans, pets, plants, food and material goods
• Creates no fire hazard

If there are defects in the sewer mains and laterals, you may notice smoke venting out of holes or fissures on the ground, the lawn, or the street. Our crews will investigate and log the source for future repair work.

At no time will field crews have to enter your home.

However, if our crews notice smoke on your property, a City of Vacaville employee may request access to your property (i.e. backyard, side yard) to investigate.

The purpose of smoke testing is to find potential points of inflow and infiltration (leaks) in the public and private portions of the sanitary sewer system that could lead to extreme high flows in the sewer system during storm events. Smoke testing can also help locate the following:

• Buildings that have downspouts, cellar, yard or basement drains
• Catch basins and parking lot drains
• Any cross connections between sanitary sewers and storm drains
• Defective sewer connections that could allow sewer gases into a building

Never pour garden chemicals down household drains, throw them in the trash, or wash them into the street, gutter, or storm drain. Take them to Vacaville’s Household Hazardous Waste Center at 855 ½ Davis Street.

The US EPA also has information on ways to safely control pests.

What you can do:

• Place leaves and debris into your green waste toter for curbside collection, use them as mulch, or compost them.
• Do not apply lawn or garden products when rain is forecasted.
• Apply all household and garden products sparingly.
• Purchase non-toxic alternatives for pest control and weed problems.
• Attract beneficial creatures to your garden to reduce the need for chemical pesticides.
• Adjust sprinklers to water the lawn or garden only, not the street or sidewalk. 

Landscaping Tips:

• Use mulch, bricks, gravel, or other porous surfaces for walkways and patios.
• Plant densely growing turf grasses and groundcovers to reduce runoff, filter out pollutants, and reduce erosion.
• Construct a rain garden to help capture rainwater.
• Adjust rain spouts to empty onto vegetated ground.
• Level off sloped lawns to restrict runoff.
• Build earthen barriers (berms) or excavate gradual depressions (swales) to slow and redirect the flow of water.
• Add runoff trenches to capture some of the water flowing from your driveway.

  

When trash like food wrappers, cigarette butts, and plastic bags end up on or near the street, they can be washed into the storm drain system. Once trash is in the storm drain system, it flows untreated to the nearest creek or waterway.

What you can do:

• Never throw trash in the gutter or the storm drain.
• Place litter in the appropriate trash, recycling, or compost receptacle.
• Reduce: Reduce your waste with reusable shopping bags, utensils, and water bottles.
• Reuse: Clean and reuse plastic bags and bottles. Save plastic grocery bags for use as trash can liners or for picking up pet waste. Refill a plastic water bottle instead of buying a new one.
• Recycle: Try to choose products made with glass or paper, which are much easier to recycle. Learn more about what can be recycled.

Drain your swimming pool or spa water to your sanitary sewer cleanout at your home. Pool and spa water is treated with chemicals, so draining this water to the gutter puts harmful chemicals into our creeks, and is illegal!

Call us at (707) 469-6400 to verify where the water can be discharged.

Clean up after your pet! Animal waste contains bacteria and viruses and should be cleaned up and disposed of as solid waste.

• Never throw pet waste in the gutter or storm drain.
• Regularly clean up pet waste from the yard.
• Use bags or a pooper-scooper to clean up pet waste on walks.
• Dispose of pet waste unwrapped in the toilet or wrapped in the trash bin.

 Do not pour fats, oils, and grease down the drain or into a storm water inlet. When fats, oils, and grease cool, they solidify and can cause severe problems including:

• Sewer backups and overflows
• Sharp increases in energy and maintenance costs from the effects of clogging, cleanup, and removal
• Negative impacts on treatment plant operating efficiency
• Odors
• Infrastructure corrosion
• Decreases in the useful and productive life of the infrastructure

Our Public Works team has to clean out pipes when grease clogs the pipes, like the image to the right.

Please collect your fats, oils, and grease in a sealed clear container and drop it off for recycling at:

Recology Vacaville Solano Recycling Facility

855 ½ Davis Street

Vacaville, CA 95687

For more information download the Grease Menace Brochure (en Español).

A person should first ensure that no one is injured. If there are no injuries the drivers should pull off into a parking lot or to a place of safety out of the roadway. If no one is injured, all parties should exchange information; driver’s license numbers, vehicle license numbers, names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance companies. The involved persons should also note if there were any passengers, the location of the collision, and the time of day.

If there are injuries involved or you feel that you need the assistance of the Vacaville Police Department for any reasons, please call 9-1-1 or (707) 449-5200 immediately.

A parking ticket fine can be paid at the Police Dept lobby, by mailing it to the address listed on the bottom of your citation, or online at www.pticket.com. Payment can be made at the Police Dept. in cash, check or money order. Payment by credit card can be made at City Hall Finance.

When you believe a parking ticket was issued in error you may request a Police Dept “Initial Review” within 21 days of issuance of the citation or 14 days of mailing of the citation; or you may mail a letter of explanation to the address listed on the front of this brochure to the attention of “Parking Cite Review.” The parking penalty amount will be submitted as a deposit, which will be refunded if the citation is cancelled. Please include any documentation, pictures, or paperwork that may support a dismissal. Also, legibly include your name, address, citation number, and phone number. 

The Records Section handles vehicle releases:

• Please be prepared to provide your vehicle’s license plate number, VIN number, or a case number to assist the Records Section in locating the associated paperwork in a timely manner.
• Some vehicles may be released immediately and others may be placed on a 30-day hold. When your vehicle has been placed on a 30-day hold and you wish to have it released sooner, the registered owner must complete an “Impound Hearing Form.” The Hearing Officer will contact the registered owner with his or her decision within 48 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) after the form is submitted.
• A vehicle can only be released to the registered owner. Transfer of ownership through DMV for a recently purchased vehicle must be completed before its release. When the registered owner is unable to come to the Police Department, a “Request Release Form” can be submitted to Records staff. If the registered owner is incarcerated, the jail can provide a vehicle release form for completion by registered owner. Both forms give another person permission to obtain the release on the registered owner’s behalf.
• The vehicle must be currently registered or the registration must be formally in process. When your vehicle is not currently registered, you must go to DMV first to obtain the appropriate registration documents or a one-day moving permit. Bring the paperwork with you to the Police Department for the release process.
• The registered owner must have a valid Driver’s License. When the Registered Owner does not have a valid license, they must bring a valid driver with them to the Police Department to obtain the release.
• Vehicle release fees vary.  Please contact the Records unit at 707-449-5229.  Vehicle release fess are payable in cash or money order and do not include the fees accrued at the tow yard. Each tow yard has specific requirements for a vehicle release. Call the tow yard at which your vehicle is stored to avoid any additional vehicle release delays.

1. Vacaville Tow - (707)448-6340 / (800)400-6340
2. Jeff Ramirez Tow - (707)447-0974

Vacaville Police Officers continuously review policies and receive training related to responding to resistance.  The use of force as a national discussion as well as a local concern raises lots of questions.  Officers are involved on a daily basis in numerous and varied interaction, and, when warranted, may use reasonable force when carrying out their duties.  Officers must have an understanding of, and true appreciation for, their authority and limitations.  The Vacaville Police Department recognizes and respects the value of all human life and dignity without prejudice to anyone.  Vesting officers with the authority to use reasonable force and to protect the public welfare, requires monitoring, evaluation and a careful balance of all interests.  Officers are expected to carry out their duties, including the use of force, in a manner which is fair and unbiased. (Penal Code 7286(b)(10)). 

Each time force is used in response to resistance officers report the incident and a review process occurs.  We expect all officers to be professional and when using force.  Officers shall use only that amount of force that reasonable appears necessary given the facts and the totally of the circumstances.  Known to or perceive by the officer at the time of the event to accomplish a legitimate law enforcement purpose.  (Penal Code 835(a)).

Several legislative reforms include calling for a nationwide use-of-force policy standard modeled after California law, expansion of accountability and disciplinary actions, an increased emphasis on transparency, ongoing focus on diversity in recruitment, programmatic support for officer mental health and wellness, and continued development of specific training practices. It is evident that our nation remains host to structural divides caused by racial injustice, and although peace officers are not the root cause of this, we are also not immune from the impacts of our shared past.

In 2019, California set a new legal statewide standard for peace officers’ use of deadly force (AB 392, Weber) and CPCA sponsored legislation, which set national precedent by establishing a minimum use of force policy standard for all departments (SB 230, Caballero). Most of the policies outlined in the ‘8CantWait’ campaign have been captured by these two new landmark laws. However, several provisions, most notably the requirement that officers’ exhaust all alternatives, were not included in either bill due to shared concerns by law enforcement and policymakers. Instead, alternatives to those provisions were embraced to accomplish our shared goal of reducing deadly force incidents. 

Outlined below are the provisions in the 8CantWait platform already captured directly in statute, or concerns and alternatives with what is being proposed: 

1. Ban Chokeholds and Strangle holds: 

Vacaville Police Department does not authorize or condone the use of choke holds or strangle holds. However, the Vacaville Police Department does not currently ban the carotid control hold and recognizes that in situations when officers are subjected to serious bodily injury in violent encounters with combative subjects, this force may be necessary. The carotid restraint does not compress the trachea or restrict airflow to an individual, and is particularly effective with persons who are under the influence of controlled substances and are violent and/or combative. The Carotid Restraint allows for the effective and safe detention of these individuals, where other forms of restraint would be much more damaging and intrusive, including deadly force. This is being debated nationally and legislation will soon determine whether it will be banned entirely or with few exceptions. Currently, California law under SB 230 (2019) requires that “an officer may only use a level of force that they reasonably believe is proportional to the seriousness of the suspected offense.” Any force beyond this requirement is unreasonable and excessive.

2. De-Escalation Requirement: 

SB 230 requires that “officers utilize de-escalation techniques, crisis intervention tactics, and other alternatives to force when feasible.” SB 230 also mandates each policy require officers to conduct all duties in a manner that is fair and unbiased. Additionally, SB 230 requires all officers be trained in alternatives to deadly force and de-escalation techniques. De-escalation is a prominent and important part of our training and daily operations. De-escalation is not practical in all situations, as it requires a measure of cooperation and compliance of the part of the individuals the police encounter. Our officers are trained in tactics and techniques that reduce the likelihood of defiant encounters, but cannot prevent them all. In our Crisis Intervention Incidents policy (GO 466) de-escalation is a major factor in our response to crisis intervention incidents. The Vacaville Police Department already includes these in policy and the following training:

• In 2019, Vacaville Police personnel received 26 hours of de-escalation training ranging from Verbal Judo to Critical incident / Active Shooter training.
• In 2020, Vacaville Police personnel will receive 26 hours of mandated de-escalation training.
• California POST (Police Officer Standards and Training) requires de-escalation training curriculum in police academies, as well as on-going officer training. This is included in the Vacaville Police Department training program for all police officers upon hire and ongoing advanced officer training.

3. Require warning before shooting: 

AB 392 states: “where feasible, a peace officer shall, prior to the use of force, make reasonable efforts to identify themselves as a peace officer and to warn that deadly force may be used, unless the officer has objectively reasonable grounds to believe the person is aware of those facts.”  This requirement is consistent with federal case law. The Vacaville Police Department already includes these in policy and training. These issues have been scrutinized by the courts and recognized the complexity of such oversimplified expectations that mandate such a strict requirement. The courts have given clear direction on the reasonableness of such practices. Our training includes such warnings, however it does not require them, depending on the circumstances. Pursuant to our current Use of Force policy (G.O. 300), when applying deadly force to stop a fleeing subject:  

• “An officer may use deadly force to stop a fleeing subject when the officer has probable cause to believe that the person has committed, or intends to commit, a felony involving the infliction or threatened infliction of serious bodily injury or death, and the officer reasonably believes that there is an imminent risk of serious bodily injury or death to any other person if the subject is not immediately apprehended. Under such circumstances, a verbal warning should precede the use of deadly force, where feasible.”

4. Require Exhausting All Other Means (alternatives) Before Shooting:

Arguably, the most controversial provision in 8CantWait’s platform, this requirement was rejected in AB 392 debate because of the untenable position it puts officers and departments in, by permitting second-guessing of split-second decisions. Instead, the focus should be on training alternatives to deadly force, requirements on proportional force, and de-escalation requirements, all of which are contained in SB 230 and in our Department General Order 300. If this requirement is implemented, an officer’s decision concerning the use of force alternative should be judged based upon the totality of the circumstances and reasonable officer standard in AB 392. 

5. Duty to Intervene: 

The Vacaville Police Department has long maintained the “Duty to Intercede” in our policy manual. In fact, the duty to intercede to unlawful or unreasonable force is the first operational guideline in the Use of Force policy (G.O. 300.2.1). This policy states as follows:

• “Any officer present and observing another officer using force that is clearly beyond that which is objectively reasonable under the circumstances shall, when in a position to do so, intercede to prevent the use of unreasonable force. An officer who observes another employee use force that exceeds the degree of force permitted by law should promptly report these observations to a supervisor.”

California law SB 230 (2019) sets forth a “requirement that an officer intercede when present and observing another officer using force that is clearly beyond that which is necessary, as determined by an objectively reasonable officer under the circumstances.” This provision is consistent with federal law as well. 

6. Ban Shooting at Moving Vehicles:

Vacaville police officers are discouraged from shooting at (or from) a moving vehicle. Outright prohibitions in all circumstances does not account for situations where the driver of a vehicle may be threatening death or great bodily injury to others. California law SB 230 (2019) requires “Comprehensive and specific guidelines for the application of deadly force,” which should include guidance on the limited situations that would warrant shooting at moving vehicles. The Vacaville Police Department already includes these in policy and training, specifically the shooting at (or from) a moving vehicle is outlined below:

• "Shots fired at or from a moving vehicle are rarely effective. Officers should move out of the path of an approaching vehicle instead of discharging their firearm at the vehicle or any of its occupants. An officer should only discharge a firearm at a moving vehicle or its occupants when the officer reasonably believes there are no other reasonable means available to avert the threat of the vehicle, or if deadly force other than the vehicle is directed at the officer or others. Officers should not shoot at any part of a vehicle in an attempt to disable the vehicle.”

7. Require Use of Force Continuum: 

The use of force continuum is an outdated model that has proven impractical, even dangerous, when applied in real life situations. Instead, policies should focus on requiring officers to create space and separation in an attempt to utilize de-escalation techniques, which is captured in the training and policy requirements within California law SB 230 (2019).  In the past, the Use of Force Continuum was seen as similar to a “Ladder of Force” beginning with command presence, and ending with use of deadly force. Officers were expected to “work their way up the ladder” prior to utilizing deadly force. Policing has evolved based upon federal and state court decisions, so use of force options are now in the shape of a “wheel,” and officers are expected to utilize the minimum amount of force necessary to make the arrest or stop the threat by choosing the force which would reasonably be necessary and effective. If a specific use of force is determined to be ineffective, or unreasonable (given the subject’s actions or compliance), then the use of force tactic or technique is adjusted up or down. The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals has clearly ruled on this issue. In regards to officer’s use of deadly force (i.e. firearm):

• “Requiring officers to find and choose the least intrusive alternative would require them to exercise superhuman judgment. In the heat of battle with lives potentially in the balance, an officer would not be able to rely on training and common sense to decide what would best accomplish his mission… Officers thus need not avail themselves of the least intrusive means of responding to an exigent situation; they need only act within that range of conduct we identify as reasonable.”

 Scott v. Henrich, 39F.3d912 (9th Cir. 1994)

8. Require Comprehensive Reporting: 

California law SB 230 (2019) already requires “comprehensive and detailed requirements for prompt internal reporting and notification regarding a use of force incident.” Additionally, legislation from 2015 (Assembly Bill 71) requires statewide detailed reporting requirements on serious use of force incidents. SB 230 also requires officers to report excessive force they witness. The Vacaville Police Department already include these in policy and training. Use of force in response to resistance by Vacaville police officers is comprehensively reported and evaluated at all supervisory levels (Sergeant, Watch Commander and Bureau Commander) to determine appropriateness.

Yes, officers are required to wear and record all police interactions when responding to calls for service or   other proactive encounters such as traffic stops. Vacaville has been recognized for its early adoption of body worn cameras, which began in 2010. Our fleet is also equipped with cameras as well.

The “Use of Force Continuum” is an outdated concept. In the past, the Use of Force Continuum was seen as similar to a “Ladder of Force” beginning with command presence and ending with use of deadly force. Officers were expected to “work their way up the ladder” prior to utilizing deadly force. Industry best practice has evolved based upon federal and state court decisions, and use of force responses are now in the shape of a “wheel,” and officers are expected to utilize the minimum amount of force necessary to effect the arrest or stop the threat by choosing the force which would reasonably be necessary and effective. This is consistent with our policy and new state law. Vacaville Police Department Defensive Tactics instructors teach officers to constantly evaluate the use of force being applied to determine both its reasonableness, as well as its effectiveness. If a specific use of force is determined to be in-effective, or unreasonable (given the subject’s actions or compliance), then the use of force is adjusted up or down.

 The 9^th Circuit Court of Appeals has clearly ruled on this issue of deadly force used by officers, and according to Scott v. Henrich, 39F.3d912 (9^th Cir. 1994), “Requiring officers to find and choose the least intrusive alternative would require them to exercise superhuman judgment. In the heat of battle with lives potentially in the balance, an officer would not be able to rely on training and common sense to decide what would best accomplish his mission… Officers thus need not avail themselves of the least intrusive means of responding to an exigent situation; they need only act within that range of conduct we identify as reasonable.” 

Vacaville Police Department General Order 341 deals with Standards of Conduct by Police personnel. This policy specifically prohibits excessive force by officers. Additionally, this policy outlines and explains the discipline policy should an officer violate policy. Sustained officer complaints are investigated, and discipline is determined on a case-by-case basis. Based on the severity of the violation, reprimands and/or termination can occur at the first instance.

Responding to resistance training is already being taught by the Vacaville Police Department. De-escalation training is required for all officers. These tactics and techniques are regularly used to avoid the use of force when feasible.

According to Propositions 218 and 26, the cost of a fee cannot exceed the “estimated reasonable cost of providing the service.” In accordance with Propositions 218 and 26, the City does not set rates to exceed the cost of service (to make a profit).

• Rents and penalties are not subject to the same “estimated reasonable cost” limitation and is set at the City’s discretion

In some instances, the City may set fees lower than the cost of service to achieve other goals including: maintaining access to public programs and staying competitive with comparable jurisdictions or market rates.

In advance of hearings to change the Master Fees and Charges Schedule, the City issues public notifications. This is completed within 14 days prior to the hearing date and is in accordance with State Law.  Notifications are sent/posted via newspaper, public facility postings, and the City’s website.

You can pay your water and sewer bill at City Hall (Finance Division) located at 650 Merchant Street, Vacaville. You can also pay over the phone with MasterCard, Visa or Discover by calling 449-5128. The easiest way to have your bill paid on time is to sign up for E-Billing through the City's website or by clicking here:

 Pay Water Bill Online

For your convenience, requests for connecting service will be accepted online. You may also come in person to the Finance counter, City Hall, 650 Merchant Street to submit a request. The City of Vacaville requires one business day notice to connect service. In order to connect service the next business day, applications must be received by 12:00 pm Pacific time. Please be advised that basic service fees for water and sewer will apply effective the day your service begins. You are responsible for service until you request to have service stopped.

Applications for volunteers can be found here. Completed applications can be emailed to VacaCon@cityofvacaville.com.

For a vendor application, please email VacaCon@cityofvacaville.com

• $20 pre sale 1- Day ticket (Sat. the 20th OR Sun. the 21st) $25 Day of 
• $35 pre sale 2-Day ticket (Sat. the 20th ANDSun. the 21st) $40 Day of
• $5 off for ages 11-17
• FREE for ages 10 and under!

• Volunteers will have varying assignments depending on areas of interest and experience including: artists, exhibitors, gaming stations, cosplay, photography, art contest, kid zone, guest relations, and more!
• Volunteers will receive FREE admission and be assigned to one of the following shifts so that they can also enjoy the event before or after.

• Cosplay is encouraged! Please keep in mind this is a family friendly event, so all attire needs to be appropriate for all ages.
• NO weapons allowed. All props and other items that resemble weapons must go through the Peace Bonding station prior to entry for approval.

• To make this event successful, we rely on support from our community partners. Even if you cannot attend, there are many ways you can help!
• SPONSORS
  • Monetary- Sponsor the entire event, or just a specific area. Monetary donations in all amounts are welcomed and appreciated.
  • In Kind- Do you have a service that would be useful to the event? Consider Donating that instead of a monetary donation.

To receive rental assistance under the Section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Program, families whose annual income as of 4/1/2025 does not exceed the following are eligible:

Family of:

You may only apply during an open application period.

Remember - It is your responsibility to inform the VHA/SCHA of changes in address, family composition or preferences. If the VHA/SCHA is not able to reach you by mail, your name will be removed from the waiting list.

Applying for a waitlist is available online by accessing the link included in the Public Notice. If you do not have access to a computer, you may visit one of the locations listed below, which provide free access to computers and the internet.

Assistance includes locating the website designated to apply for the Waitlist and setting up a free email account and if needed, to complete the application. They may also address questions and provide a brief overview of the process to support accurate and timely completion of the application.

If you do not have a library card, you may request one-time access to use the computers. A form of photo identification will be required, which may include, but is not limited to, a state-issued driver’s license or ID, a DMV printout, an expired photo ID, or a photo membership card such as a Costco card.

In addition to offering free computer and internet access, the organizations listed below will also be available to assist with completing the online application.

For more information, please feel free to contact the Waitlist Information Line at (707) 449-5638; TTY Only (707) 449-5680

The City may choose to issue fines for non-compliance with the water waste ordinance on a case by case basis.