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1. What are the Development Services counter hours?

The Development Services counter is open from 7:00am to 12:00pm and 1:00pm to 4:00pm, Monday through Thursday, and 7:00am to 12:00pm on Fridays.

2. When do I need a building permit?

If you are making modifications and/or alterations to your home, property or business, you are required to obtain a building permit. More information about Building Permits is available in the Document Center in the Section entitled Building permits. Document Center

3. Where do I call to schedule an inspection?

You can schedule a building inspection by calling the Building Department at (760) 922-6161 Ext. 1227.

4. How long does a plan check take?

A plan check takes 10 to 15 business days. You can check the status of your plans by calling (760) 922-6161 Ext. 1227.

5. Is a permit required to replace a water heater?

Yes. Please contact the Building Department at (760)922-6161 Ext. 1227 for information.

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1. Where do I go to apply for a City business license?

Business License applications can be found on the City website as well as the Finance Department at City Hall, 235 N Broadway, Blythe, CA 92225.

Applications can be submitted in person at the Finance Department or mailed to City Hall, ATTN: Business Licensing. All fees must be paid prior to processing with cash, check or money order only; check made payable to the CITY OF BLYTHE. 

Please contact the office for further information at (760) 922-6161 ext 1221 or 1237.

Business License Application

2. When do I need to renew my Business License?

All Licenses are valid for one calendar year. Renewal notices are generated in December each year. Failure to receive the renewal application does not relieve the business from renewal or penalties that may be assessed. It is the business owners responsibilty to renew by February 2nd of each year in business.

3. When does a Fictitious Business Name need to be filed?

For sole proprietors a Fictitious Business name is filed when the name of a business does not include the surname of the owner. For Partnerships it must be filed if the name of the business does not include the surnames of both partners or does not suggest that business is under dual ownership. A corporation would need to file if they were using a business name other than what was listed in their articles of incorporation. County Assessor's web site

4. Where do I go to file a Fictitious Business Name?

The Fictitious Business Name is filed at the County Assessor’s office located at 270 N. Broadway. Filings will only be processed on Wednesday’s. You can also visit any Assessors Office in the County of Riverside to file. The office locations can be found at the County Assessor’s web site. County Assessor's site

5. How can I obtain a resale/sales tax permit?

If the nature of your business requires the collection of California State sells tax you need a sells tax resale number. This can be obtained from the State Board of Equalization (800)400-7115 or by visiting their web site. State Board's web site

6. What if I change my business location?

You will need to fill out an application listing the change of address and schedule an inspection of the new business location with the Building Department. There is a $5.00 processing fee to issue a new Business License.

7. What if I close or sell my business?

A business license cannot be transferred. Your business license account will be closed and it is the responsibility of the new owner to apply for his/her own City of Blythe Business License.

8. Do I need a Business License to operate an in-home day care?

A City license is not required for homes with less than six children, but you must register with the State of California Department of Social Services, Community Care Licencing (951) 782-4200.

Community Care's web site

9. What if I have a complaint about a contractor I hired?

Complaints against Contractors are handled by the California State Contractors Board. They can be reached at (800)321-2752 or you can find complaint forms on their website. CSLB website

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1. How do I get an item on the Council Agenda?

Submit a letter to the City Clerk at 235 N. Broadway five working days prior to the Council Meeting, second Tuesday of the month, with the item you would like to discuss.

2. How do I obtain City Records?

You must fill out a Request for Public Records which can be obtained from the City Clerk or online. Upon receipt of a request the City will determine within 10 working days if the records are available to the public. A rate of .30 cents per page, for hard copies, and/or .10 cents per page for electronic copies, is payable in advance of preparation of the documents. For more information contact the City Clerk at (760) 922-6161 ext. 1237.

Request for Public Records

3. Where do I get a marriage license, birth or death Certificate?

Please contact the Riverside County Clerk’s office:
270 N. Broadway
Blythe, CA 92225
(760) 921-5050

County Clerk's web site

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1. When does the City Council meet?

City Council Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month. The meetings begin at 6:00pm in the Council Chambers in City Hall located at 235 N. Broadway in Blythe, CA.

2. How do I get a Copy of the City Council Agenda?

Agendas can be found by clicking on the Archive Center Tab located at the top of the homepage. Under Council Agendas, they are listed by meeting date. A hard copy may be obtained at City Hall for a fee of $8.00.

3. How do I contact the City Council?

The City Clerk will receive calls and messages for all City Council Members. Messages will be forwarded to the Council, and your calls will be returned as soon as possible. The City Clerk can be reached at (760) 922-6161 ext. 1237.

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1. How do I start the development process?

The Project Review Committee (PRC) is the firs step in the Development process. The purpose of the Project Review is to ensure that a proposed development is in conformance with the standards of the zone district in which it is located.   More specifically, the process is intended to result in well-designed and properly built projects that will enhance the community.  Additionally, by getting all conditions up front, there are no surprises during your development progress and you will be able to know what needs to be budgeted.

 Project Review is required for all newly constructed land uses with the exception of the construction of single family dwellings on infill parcels.  Generally, Project Review is not required for minor construction projects such as swimming pools, fences, sheds, carports/garages, and minor additions or remodeling of existing buildings.  Commercial projects are most always subject to Project Review for both new construction and changing the use of an existing structure.  

 The Applicant assembles the required documentation/information indicated on the Project Review Submittal form and submits that to the Planning Department.  Staff will distribute the submittal “package” to 26 different agencies (Edison, Gas Company, City Fire Department, Frontier, etc.) for review and comment.  Those agencies wishing to provide comment will do so within a specified period of time (normally two weeks although each project is evaluated individually).  Planning staff will then compile all comments into one written document that reflects requirements and standards necessary for the project to move forward.  The Applicant may then take the conditions of approval to their design professional for inclusion before moving to the next step of their development process (i.e. discretionary action [if required] or building permit submittal).  The comment letter accompanying the conditions of approval will specify what the required next course of action will be.

 The entire process can take an average of four weeks to complete.   When complete, the Applicant will have a “road map” to follow when navigating through the development process.

 Click on the link below to access the PRC Application. 

 

 

PRC Application

2. What are City Hall business hours?

City Hall is open from 7:00am to 4:00pm, Monday through Friday.

3. How can I get a copy of the Agenda?

Agendas can be found by clicking on the Archive Center Tab. Under Council Agendas they are listed by meeting date. A hard copy can be obtained at City Hall for a fee of $8.00.

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1. How are code violaions enforced?

A code enforcement officer is sent out to verify that there is a code violation and categorizes the violation. A notice of violation or notice of public nuisance will be issued depending on the type of violation. If the problem is not corrected within the given time frame a citation will then be issued.

2. How do I file a complaint?

All complaints must be filed in writing. Complaint forms are available at the Development Services counter in City Hall located at 235 N. Broadway.

3. If I file a complaint will I remain anonymous?

Yes. The City of Blythe will do its utmost to keep your information confidential. It would take a Judges order to have your information released.

4. Will I be informed about the status of my complaint?

Your complaint is very important to us. Due to time constraints, our office is not always able to keep the reporting party up-dated. You can check the status of your complaint by calling Code Compliance at (760)922-6161 Ext. 1224.

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1. Where can I get a Park Use Application?

A Park Use Permit can be obtained online or at City Hall, 235 N Broadway, Blythe, CA 92225.

Park Use Permit

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1. How do I start the development process?

The Project Review Committee Process (PRC) is the first step in the development of a project. The purpose of the Project Review is to ensure that a proposed development is in conformance with the standards of the zone district in which it is located.  More specifically, the process is intended to result in well-designed and properly built projects that will enhance the community.   Additionally, by getting project conditions up front, there are no surprises during your development progress and you will know what needs to be budgeted.

Project Review is required for all newly constructed land uses with the exception of the construction of single family dwellings on infill parcels.  Generally, Project Review is not required for minor construction projects such as swimming pools, fences, sheds, carports/garages, and minor additions or remodeling of existing buildings.  Commercial projects are most always subject to Project Review for both new construction and changing the use of an existing structure.  

The Applicant assembles the required documentation/information indicated on the Project Review Submittal form and submits that to the Planning Department.   Staff will distribute the submittal “package” to 26 different agencies (Edison, Gas Company, City Fire Department, Frontier, etc.) for review and comment.  Those agencies wishing to provide comment will do so within a specified period of time (normally two weeks although each project is evaluated individually).  Planning staff will then compile all comments into one written document that reflects requirements and standards necessary for the project to move forward.  The Applicant may then take the conditions of approval to their design professional for inclusion before moving to the next step of their development process (i.e. discretionary action [if required] or building permit submittal).  The comment letter accompanying the conditions of approval will specify what the required next course of action will be.

 The entire process takes an average of four weeks to complete. When complete, the Applicant will have a “road map” to follow when navigating through the development process.

 Click on the link below for the PRC Application. 

PRC Application

2. Do I need a permit to put up a sign?

Yes. Sign permit approval is required prior to placing, erecting, moving, reconstructing, altering or displaying any sign on private property within the city of Blythe.

3. Can I put up a temporary sign for my business?

Yes. A temporary banner is allowed for up to 30 days after the grand opening of a business.

4. Can I put up signs if I am having a garage sale?

Yes. Temporary sign and/or signs placed on private residential property with a total square footage of eight square feet of total sign area or less per lot are allowed for a maximum of sixty days and must be taken down after the event is over. If posting temporary signs on non-residential areas, contact the Planning Department at (760)922-6161 Ext. 228 to make sure a permit is not required. You can also refer to Blythe Municipal Code Section 17.26.080 and 17.58.

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1. When is the election?

The Special Election was May 5, 2020.

It was a mail ballot election, which means there were no polling places. Ballots were be mailed to voters. Voters mailed or dropped off ballots at designated drop-off locations, including the City Clerk’s Office. Ballots were dropped off by May 5, 2020 or postmarked on or before May 5, 2020 and received no later than May 8, 2020 to be counted.

2. What is the Sales Tax Measure?

The Sales Tax Measure was for a one cent local sales tax and was approved by Blythe voters. This will generate approximately $1.1 million per year that will go directly into the City’s General Fund. The City’s General Fund is used to pay for the City’s general operations, including police and fire services, blight and building abatement, and street and sidewalk improvements.

3. Why is the Sales Tax Measure on the Special Election ballot?

The City continues to experience stagnation in the local economy and the remaining effects of the Great Recession. Although the City’s General Fund is not currently running a deficit, there are minimal reserves available in the event unexpected City expenses exceed projected expenses. Further, the City has already made deep cuts to City expenditures, which has resulted in the elimination or reduction of key programs, positions and services in order to deliver a balanced budget. The City needs revenue enhancement measures in order to prevent further cuts, maintain City services and preserve the health, safety and general welfare of Blythe residents, workers, and visitors. The proposed tax measure is such a revenue enhancement measure.

4. If the tax measure is approved, what could the City spend the money on?

The City could use the funds to maintain City services, address street repairs and other facility and operational needs. The funds could go to maintain public safety, the quality of life, and the services the community has come to expect that make Blythe a desirable place to live and work.

Examples of how the funds may be used:

• To strengthen code enforcement, including abating dilapidated buildings.
• To replace aging 9-1-1 dispatch systems. A modern system will help police officers and emergency medical personal respond more quickly.
• To replace the Fire Department’s aging radio system, allowing them to be on the same system as the Police Department. A fully integrated system will enable the Fire Department and emergency medical personnel to respond more quickly. 
• To replace aging emergency equipment used by Fire and Police, such as turnout gear for fire fighters.  
• To attract and retain businesses.
• To address homelessness.
• To keep up with necessary road repairs,and infrastructure.

5. How would the Sales Tax Measure funds be accounted for?

The Sales Tax Measure funds would be deposited into the City’s General Fund and would be allocated by the City Council during the annual budget process. The funds would be subject to an annual independent audit.

6. Will all purchases be impacted by the Sales Tax Measure?

No. The Sales Tax Measure does not apply to groceries, rent, mortgages, utilities, prescription medicine, or personal services, such as medical and dental services.

7. What is taxable under the Sales Tax Measure?

If enacted, the tax will apply to common items such as clothing, furniture, and restaurant meals.

8. Who will pay the Sales Tax Measure tax?

The tax would be paid by anyone who shops and dines in Blythe. This ensures that both residents and visitors contribute to revenue for public safety services and other resources they utilize while in Blythe. The City estimates about 50% of Measure revenue would be paid by non-Blythe residents.

9. What is the impact on taxable purchases?

If passed, a taxable purchase of $100 in Blythe would cost an additional $1.00.

10. If approved, when would the additional one cent (1%) transaction and use tax authorized by the Sales Tax Measure take effect?

The new rate would go into effect on October 1, 2020. At that time, the combined total sales tax rate in Blythe would become 8.75%. The funds would start being received in the first part of 2021.

11. How much money is the City going to get?

The City expects to receive approximately $ 1.1 million annually. If approved, 100% of the funds raised by measure will stay in Blythe. Currently, the City receives 1% of the revenue collected from the 7.75% sales tax – the rest goes to the State or Riverside County.

12. Will this tax cover all of the needs the City has?

No. However, this tax will make a significant difference in maintaining services and addressing some infrastructure needs.

13. What are the costs of the special election?

One time election costs are estimated at $10,000, which will be paid directly to the County to administer the Special Election. The Special Election will be run by the Riverside County Registrar of Voters.

14. Is this type of sales tax common?

Yes. Approximately 95% of the state’s population live in one or more transactions and use tax areas.

15. What happens if the Sales Tax Measure doesn’t pass?

While the measure will not, by itself, fix the City’s fiscal challenges, it would generate General Fund revenues that could be used to support City services, such as police and fire services, blight and building abatement, and street and sidewalk improvements. If the measure is not approved, the City would need to identify other revenue enhancement measures in order to avoid further expenditure reductions. These reductions could translate to further reduction or elimination of City services.

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1. How do I sign up for Water, Sewer, & Trash Service?

Print, complete, and submit a Utility Service application and pay the required deposit of $135.00.

Applications can only be submitted in person in the Finance Department.  Government issued photo ID is required.

Deposits must be made in the form of cash, check or money order (made payable to CITY OF BLYTHE) only.

Please contact the office for further information at (760) 922-6161 ext 1233 or 1234.

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