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Building & Safety

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1. Do I need a permit for what I am wanting to do?

If you are asking yourself this question, then the answer is most likely yes.

2. How do I request an inspection?

There are two ways to request an inspection with the City of Hemet. The most utilized is our 24-hour inspection request line at (951) 765-2475. Inspections left on that recorder by 3:00 pm will be inspected the following business day. The second alternative is to utilize our online inspection requesting software. To do this you must be a licensed contractor and must first contact the City of Hemet to obtain a password. If you already posses a password, please visit our site at ETrakIt

3. What time will my inspection be?

Inspections are performed between 7:30 am and 5:30 pm, Monday through Thursday. Appointment times are not given.

4. What do I need to do to get ready for my inspection?

The City of Hemet issued job/inspection card, approved plans and access to the area of inspection needs to be provided. City of Hemet inspectors will not go into an occupied or unoccupied home without another adult present. For further information, please refer to Inspection Handout (128).

5. How long is my permit good for?

A demolition permit is good for only 60 days. All other permits, unless specifically specified, are good for 180 days from the issuance date. Except for demolition permits, if an inspection is performed and approved by a City of Hemet inspector ,on an active permit, the counting of the 180 days resets from the date of inspection. For example, your permit is obtained on July 1, 2011. You obtain and pass a footing inspection on November 15, 2011. Your permit will then expire on May 14, 2012. If subsequent inspections are passed afterwards, the same example applies.

6. What if I can’t get me permit inspected within the allotted 180 days?

The Building Official, at his own discretion, can approve the extension of a building permit. If the permit is NOT expired, the applicant can submit a request in writing explaining the circumstances that have delayed the project for review and consideration by the Building Official. After his review, the applicant will be advised of the determination. However, please be advised that the Building Official can only grant one extension.

7. I’m a homeowner, what do I need to have to bring to obtain a building permit?

To be authorized to obtain a permit, you will need to bring in a copy of a grant deed with your name listed as an owner and a copy of your current driver’s license. If you are sending another person to pull the permit on your behalf, you will need to provide to that person a notarized letter giving them authorization to do so. This letter must be brought in along with the previously mentioned items. For detailed information on what permit documents you need, please refer to our Informational Handouts or our Plan Check Information for your specific type of project.

8. I’m a Contractor, what do I need to have to obtain a building permit?

To obtain a permit as a Contractor, you must have a valid California Contractors State License, a City of Hemet Business License, and if not the “owner” of the license, a notarized authorization letter from the contractor giving you that permission.

9. Where can I get these “HERS” or energy compliance forms?

The forms are provided from the California Energy Commission. There are three (3) different groups of forms that may be required. The first type of form may include a “1” in the numbering sequence, ie. CF1R, these forms can be obtained http://www.energy.ca.gov/title24/2008standards/residential_manual.html#forms. The second type of form may include a “HERS” in the numbering sequence. This form can only be obtained by a HERS tester. Once this third-party inspector inspects the specified work, it will be provided to you. The third type of form is completed by the installer of the energy compliant feature and must be installed by the person that did the work. Those forms can be found here http://www.energy.ca.gov/title24/2008standards/residential_manual.html#forms

10. What is a final request form?

A final request form is a form that must be signed by a variety of departments and other agencies. This form is utilized to ensure all departments and agencies requirements are satisfied before you are granted final occupancy. The form is a 3-part form and must be obtained from our office or from your building inspector. Most of the signatures can be obtained at the City of Hemet’s City Hall, however, any others that can not are provided with a phone and address as to where they can be reached at.

11. Will I get my inspection today? "Am I on the list"

The City of Hemet has a program that can allow you to verify what day your inspection is scheduled for. There are three (3) ways to access the site. The first is from our Home Page under the category under "Inspection Request or Status". The second is by going to https://crwweb.cityofhemet.org/Etrakit2/Index.aspx. Both will take you to the appropriate program. In the event that you need assistance in navigating that site, please see our guide "How to Check Status of My Inspection". The third is going directly to ETrakIt

12. How do I verify if I am in the City of Hemet's jurisdiction?

The City of Hemet's jurisdiction only contains address that have 3 or 4 digits in the address. For example 445 E. Florida Avenue or 1111 N. Smith Street. If your address contains 5 (five) digits with a Hemet mailing address, you will need to contact Riverside County for your permitting needs. Riverside County Permit Information.

13. How late do you issue permits?

Permits can be issued up until 5:00pm. If the processing of your permit extends past 5:00pm, you will need to return in the morning to complete the process and you will not be able to schedule an inspection for that day. The cut-off of inspection requests is 3:00pm.

14. What time do the inspectors leave in the morning?

The inspectors generally leave the office by 8:30am and return around 5:00pm.

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Business Licenses

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1. What is a business license?

A business license is a business tax paid to the City in order to conduct business legally within the City limits. The purpose of the license is to generate revenue for the City of Hemet to provide police and fire protection, fire and crime prevention and many other community services.

2. Who needs a business license?

Per the City of Hemet Business License Ordinance #1158 Section 18-45,
all businesses operating in the City of Hemet are required to have a business license, this includes businesses which operate from a home.

A City Business License is required in each city where you conduct business and at each location within the city

3. When do I obtain a City business license?

A license must be obtained prior to the start of your business. Obtaining your license prior to conducting business will allow you to avoid penalties that may be incurred.

4. Where do I obtain a business license?

The Business License Department is located at 445 E Florida Ave Hemet CA 92544

5. Is a business license all I need to conduct business legally?

The issuance of a business license does not entitle the license holder to carry on any business which is otherwise prohibited. It may be necessary for you to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy, a Conditional Use Permit and/or any other City, State, or Federal approvals before your business may operate.

6. When will my license expire and how do I renew it?

All City of Hemet Business Licenses expire on December 31st each year. · Licenses must be renewed each year - Failure to renew will result in penalties

7. Do I need a seller's permit?

Any sales of tangible items require a sellers permit from the California State Board of Equalization (951)680-6400 or visit their web site http://www.boe.ca.gov
Located at 3737 Main St. 10thFloor #1000, Riverside CA 92506

If you already have a valid sellers permit but it is not registered for your new business, you must contact the State Board of Equalization regarding changes and/or additions

8. Do I need a fictitious name or DBA?

California law requires that every person who regularly transacts business for profit under a fictitious name, must file and publish a Fictitious Name Statement
To file a statement please contact the Riverside County Clerk’s office at (951) 766-2500 or visit their http://riverside.asrclkrec.com/SVfbn.asp websit.

County Clerk’s office is located at 880 N State St, Suite B6, Hemet, CA, their phone # is (951) 766-2500.

9. When do I pay for my license?

Your completed Business License Application and applicable fees must be received by the Business License Department before your license will be issued. Once you pay, you will receive a temporary license. Generally your license will be mailed within 2 weeks.

10. When will I receive my business license?

When you have met all requirements and paid your fees, you will receive a temporary business license. Generally, your license will be mailed to you within 2 weeks.

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City Clerk

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1. How do I speak at a City Council meeting?

Prior to the start of the meeting, complete a speaker slip, which can be found at the city clerk's desk. If you are speaking on an agendized item, please note the item number. You will be called when that item is discussed. If you are speaking on an item that is not on the agenda, you will be called to speak under "Communications from the Public." You will have three minutes to address the council. State law prohibits the City Council from taking action on any item not on the agenda.

2. How do I obtain a birth certificate, death certificate, or marriage license?

If you are seeking information pertaining to marriage licenses, birth or death certificates, fictitious business names, passports, property information, or recordation of documents you can contact the Riverside County Assessor / Clerk / Recorder at (951) 766-2500.

3. How do I contact the Riverside County Courthouse in Hemet?

If you have questions regarding traffic tickets, small claims, or family law you can contact the Riverside Superior Court at (951) 306-3561.

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City Council

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1. When does the City Council meet?

Regular City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month in the City Council Chambers located at 450 East Latham Avenue.

2. Our business is holding a special event. How can we invite the mayor and City Council to participate and/or recognize our company?

To invite the mayor and City Council to participate in an upcoming special event, please contact the Administration Department by calling (951) 765-2301. You may also send the request via email.

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Code Enforcement

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1. What activities require a permit?

Did you know that many common activities require City permits? Code Enforcement Officers will issue administrative citations when proper approvals have not been obtained for the following types of activities (please note that this list is not all-inclusive). Activities That Require Permits.

2. Will my name remain anonymous or be released to the violator?

Although your name, address, and phone number are required on the complaint form, your personal information will remain anonymous to the public unless it is court-ordered to be released by subpoena, under state law.

3. Does a vacant property, including unsecured and open property, need to be registered?

The Code Enforcement Department is not currently requiring vacant buildings to be registered. However, it is requiring that all vacant property shall have posted the name and 24-hour contact phone number of a local property management company under Section 14-505 Part C. of Article XI - Maintenance, Security, and Rehabilitation of Abandoned and Vacant Property found here.

4. Can I file a complaint or report an open or vacant building?

You can file a complaint or report an open or vacant building by either contacting City of Hemet Code Enforcement at (951) 765-2339 or by using the following form. Code Complaint Form

5. What are the fines associated with code violations?

Fines are cumulative and based on the number of violations. To view fines associated with common code violations Click Here.

6. Can trash/portable basketball hoops, skateboard ramps etc. be stored on the sidewalk all week?

Trash cans portable basketball hoops and skateboard ramps etc. may not be stored on the side walk they must be removed immediately after the use of the item(s) listed above must be place on personal property.

7. Who do I contact for accumulation of refuse, garbage, scrap, metal, lumber, concrete, asphalt, cans, tires, etc.?

You can file a complaint by either contacting City Of Hemet Code Enforcement at (951) 765-2339 or file a complaint on-line by using The City of Hemet Code Complaint form.

8. Can an inoperative, abandoned or dismantled motor vehicle be stored or parked in view of the public?

All unlicensed, inoperable, wrecked, or dismantled vehicle(s), or vehicle parts shall only be stored in an enclosed building or removed form residential property must be registered, and capable of operating legally on the roadway in order to be parked outdoors.

9. Can a vehicle park on a front yard or unpaved area(s)?

No vehicle may be parked on a front yard or unpaved area under any circumstance.

10. How do I report abandoned discarded or unused furniture, stoves, sinks, toilets, or other furniture and appliances, paint containers, etc.?

You can file a complaint by either contacting City Of Hemet Code Enforcement at (951) 765-2339 or file a complaint on-line by using the City of Hemet Code Complaint form.

11. What violations are NOT enforced by Code Enforcement?

* Traffic / violations when the vehicle is located on the street should be directed to the Police Department at (951) 765-2400 or (951) 765-2419.

* Weed abatement and over grown vegetation on vacant lot should be directed to the Fire Department, weed abatement program at (951) 765-2455.

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Finance

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1. How can I get a copy of the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR)?

Copies may be obtained from the Finance Department or online.

2. How can I get a copy of the annual budget?

A copy may be obtained online.

3. How do I file a claim?

Claim forms are available upon request to the City Clerk's Office at (951) 765-2307or to City Hall at (951) 765-2300. Information Available here

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Fire Department

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1. How do I apply for a job?

An official City of Hemet job application form and any required supplemental materials must be received by the Human Resources Department by the deadline time and date stated for the job title. Applications will only be accepted for a listed position. Faxed applications and postmarks will not be accepted. Job Opportunities

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Human Resources

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1. Is the City of Hemet currently hiring?

Open positions for all City of Hemet departments are listed on our Job Opportunites page. If you click on the position title you will be directed to the job flyer that gives you a basic description of the position, minimum qualifications, and application instructions.

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Integrated Waste Management

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1. How should I dispose of needles / sharps?

Place them in a secure rigid plastic jug type container (like a bleach or laundry detergent container). Then, tighten the lid and secure it with tape. Label the container "Sharps / Needles" or "Biohazard" and take it to a Riverside County household hazardous waste collection event. Riverside County Waste Management Department

2. How do I get rid of extra trash or items too big to fit into my container?

City of Hemet residents are allowed two free bulky item pick-ups annually. Contact CR&R at (800) 755-8112 to make arrangements.

3. How often are the recycling containers picked up?

Recycling containers are picked up biweekly.

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Library

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1. How much is my first library card? How do I get one?

Your first library card is Free. Go to Library Card Information and click on the Obtain your first Library Card and fill out the application.
Next, come to the library and go to any public desk with your current California ID or Drivers License with a piece of mail to validate your address.

2. How do I get a library card?

Library cards are free to California residents. Picture identification showing your name and current residency is required. Children under the age of 18 can receive a card with parental approval. Note: Parents must have a current picture ID. If your card is lost or stolen, please notify the library immediately so that we may prevent someone else from using it. Remember, you are responsible for all fines on your card.

3. Do you have Internet access for the public?

Yes, library card holders get one time a day, up to one hour of free internet access per day. Additional time may be purchased at the library for a fee. We also have free wireless as well. Printing is available for a small fee.

4. Do you have the book titled....?

Our library catalog is available online. You may search for material and put it on hold with your library card and PIN.

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Main

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1. How do I contact a city/county department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

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Parks

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1. What hours are the City of Hemet parks open?

Most city parks open at 7:00 am and close at dusk. Simpson Park, Hemet's largest park, is subject to closure during fire season and hours change seasonally.

2. Do I have to reserve a park for a family picnic or other event?

Yes. Park reservations are made by filling out a Park Use Request form and submitting it to the city. There is no cost for requesting a reservation and they are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Reserve early! Park Use Request Form

3. Can I take my dog to the park?

Dogs are not allowed in any parks, except for dog park facilities specifically designed for them. Currently, the city has one dog park at David R. Oltman Park, which is located on Cawston Avenue between Fruitvale Avenue and Eaton Avenue.

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Planning

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1. How is my property zoned?

To look up zoning information an address and/or the assessor parcel number (APN) is needed. View more information.

2. What are setbacks?

A setback is the distance between a structure and the property line. View more information.

3. What can I do with my property?

It all depends on how the property is zoned. View more information.

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Police

Show All Answers

1. Can I report a crime online?

Yes, reporting a crime online is possible.

2. Can I obtain a copy of a police report?

You may receive a copy if you are legally entitled to a copy. They are available for a processing fee. You must bring photo ID and please understand not everyone involved in an incident is entitled to a copy.

3. How do I get my vehicle out of impound?

If your vehicle was impounded by an officer, a request for a hearing is needed. Visit the station at any time to request your hearing. You will need your driver license. If the release is granted, a $180.00 vehicle release / processing fee will be charged by the Hemet Police Department.

4. Do I need an Alarm Permit for my Home? How do I get one?

Yes, per City Council Resolution, you must have an Alarm Permit if your home is within the City Limits. You can download one from the web-site and return it to the main station at 450 E. Latham Avenue, Hemet. Download Alarm Permit Application & Fees

5. Is the Hemet Police Department currently hiring?

Yes ! We are currently hiring officers and public safety dispatchers. Officer & Dispatcher Listings and Applications

6. How do I know if I'm eligible to apply with Hemet PD?

Please see Job Postings and select Full Descriptions for all the details. From time to time, we hire Entry Level candidates. Entry Level is a person who has not attended a California police academy. Otherwise you are eligible if:

• You are currently working as a sworn peace officer in the State of California.

• You are currently attending a California Basic Police Academy. Intensive and Extensive formats are both accepted (proof must be attached to your application).

• You have recently graduated from a California Basic Police Academy (proof must be attached to your application).

• You are/were a sworn officer outside the State of California and have completed the Basic Course Waiver process through California P.O.S.T. (proof must be attached to your application).

• You have COMPLETED Modular training (certificate of completion must be attached to your application).
Current Job Postings

7. How long is your screening process and what does it consist of?

Generally speaking, our screening process takes approximately 4-5 months once you are selected to participate. The selection process consists of:
Oral Appraisal Panel
Polygraph Examination
Thorough Background Investigation
Written Psychological Examination
Psychological Interview with Licensed Psychologist
Chief's Interview
Medical Examination (which includes drug/alcohol screening)

Candidates successful in the oral process will be placed on an eligibility list for one (1) year. Prior to appointment, candidates must pass each phase of the selection process in order to be eligible for the position.

8. How long will my application remain on file?

Your application is considered "active" for six months. If you are not selected after that time, you are welcome to re-apply to be considered during the next application review.

9. How can I get an employment application?

You may contact City Human Resources at (951) 765-2315 and request that an application be mailed to you or you can download an application. Be sure to complete your application neatly and completely, including signature, and remember to attach any required documentation before submitting it to the City. Download an Application.

10. How can I schedule a ride-along with Hemet PD?

You can do so by stopping by the Department and picking up a ride-along application. You must be at least 18 years of age and should reside within the City limits. Police officer applicants are exempted from the residency rule. All ride-along applicants must complete an application before riding; however current sworn officers are exempt from this requirement. A police identification card is required for sworn officers to ride.

11. How do I find a Police Academy?

The Hemet Police Department accepts Basic Academy Training from any P.O.S.T. Certified Academy in California.

P.O.S.T. maintains a list of Basic Police Academies in the State of California. The list can be found at www.post.ca.gov.

The two Academies closest to the Hemet Police Department are the Riverside County Sheriff's Academy at (951) 486-2841 and the San Bernardino Sheriff's Academy at (909) 473-2604. CA POST Police Academies

12. I have a question not covered on your website...who can I contact to get the answer?

If you have any questions after reviewing our website, please feel free to contact Tracie Palmer, Personnel and Training Manager, at (951) 765-2403 or e-mail her at "tpalmer@cityofhemet.org"

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Purchasing

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1. When can I expect payment on an invoice?

You will need to email your request to accountspayable@cityofhemet.org.

2. I have a question on payment I received. Who can I contact?

You will need to email your request to accountspayable@cityofhemet.org.

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Utility Billing

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1. What are the requirements for establishing utility service?

Single-Family Residential Accounts

All utility accounts are established by completion of a signed credit application and placement of any deposit that may be required. Contact the Utility Billing Department at 951-765-2350 to inquire if the address of service is within our district & how you can obtain the required documents.

Based upon the creditworthiness of an applicant, the Utility Billing Department may collect a deposit of not more than three times the estimated average of a bill. Such matters may determine creditworthiness; including but not necessarily limited to, prior history with the City, favorable letters of credit from other metered utility agencies (i.e., gas, electric or water) or home ownership. A favorable letter of credit must state the applicants name and history that reflects the past 12 consecutive months with zero delinquencies.

Multiple Dwellings and Non-Residential Accounts

All utility accounts are established by completion of a signed credit application and placement of a deposit. In addition, you may request to have authorized agents that may transact on your account, as well as, the option to have any shutoff notice faxed directly to you. Contact the Utility Billing Department at 951-765-2350 to inquire if the address of service is within our district & how you can obtain the required documents.

On all new multiple residential accounts, wherein more than one unit is serviced by a single meter and all non-residential accounts a deposit of not less than one and one-half times the average periodic bill is required.

2. When do I get my deposit back?

The City retains the deposit as long as the account is active. The deposit accrues interest and when the utility account is closed, the deposit is applied to the final bill and any other outstanding charges. A refund will be issued for the balance of any funds left over.

Refunds are issued twice a month and depending on the accounts last payment and closure dates it may take up to 2-4 weeks to receive the refund. Please be sure to call the Utility Billing Department at 951-765-2350 with your end of service request and forward address when closing your account.

3. Why is my bill so high?

Due to the City’s billing structure, residential accounts are billed every other month; therefore, the bill may seem high upon initial receipt. However, keep in mind that your bill includes base charges for both water and sewer that will be no less than $97.52 in your 2-month billing period even before water is consumed. See our rate sheet for more details.

In some instance you may have an onsite water leak. There are several ways to check for a leak. One way is to check the flow indicator on your water meter. Make sure you have nothing inside using water when you perform this check. If the indicator is turning, then water is flowing through the meter. This could indicate a leak in the water service line between the meter and your home or building or it could indicate that water is being used inside the home or building. To determine if you have a leak in your water service line, close off the main valve to your home or building. If the indicator on the meter is turning, this is an indication that you have a leak in the pipe between your water meter and the main valve (though it could also mean that the main valve is not shutting off the water completely).

If the indicator on you water meter was turning but stopped when you shut the main valve, this indicates that something inside is using water. With the main valve open (and the indicator on the meter turning), turn off the valve to individual fixtures (toilets, sinks, etc.,) one at a time. Check the indicator each time you turn off a fixture valve to see if it stops turning. If it does, the last fixture turned off is the culprit!

Toilets can often be the cause of a water leak. Open the cover on the tank. If the water level is above the overflow tube, there is a problem. The water level should be approximately ½ inch or so below the top of the overflow pipe. Adjust the float level so that the water is turned off at that level. If the valve controlled by the float is leaking, it may need to be replaced.

Toilet leaks can also be due to a leak at the flapper valve that lets water flow into the toilet bowl. To test for this, put a drop or two of food coloring into the tank (not the bowl). Wait for about 10 minutes and see if the colored water shows up in the bowl. If it does, your flapper valve may need to be replaced.

If you have an irrigation system, check your settings. Customers have said that they have had more than one program on at the same time or had it running for too long of a time frame and didn’t realize it until they checked their program.

4. How can I pay my utility bill?

By Mail / In Person:
Payments in the form of cash, check, money order, Visa or MasterCard can be made directly to City of Hemet at:
445 E. Florida Ave.
Hemet, CA 92543

Drop box:
There is also a Utility Payment Drop located in the parking lot of City Hall at:
445 E. Florida Ave.
Hemet, CA 92543

Online:
This option allows you to pay your utility bill with a Visa or MasterCard. Sign up is quick and easy. Learn more about our online payment option!

Phone:
We can accept payments over the phone with a Visa or MasterCard by calling our Utility Billing Department at 951-765-2350.

Fax:
We can accept payment via fax by completing our credit card authorization form with your Visa or MasterCard information and fax to: 951-765-2336

Automatic ACH:
With this option, your bank account will be automatically debited on the due date for the amount of your current balance. If you would like to take part in this service, please complete our Authorization Agreement for Automatic ACH Payments and send it along with a voided check to the:

City of Hemet
Attn: Utility Billing Department
445 E. Florida Ave.
Hemet, CA 92543

5. What if I have an emergency after the Utility Billing Department is closed?

Normal business hours are 7:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Should a water or sewer related emergency occur after those hours, call the police’s non-emergency number at 951-765-2400 and they will dispatch the individual(s) on call.

6. Where is my main water valve in case I need to turn my water off?

Usually the main water valve is located where the water supply pipe enters your home or office. Normally it is a lever or dial that you twist or turn. In some cases, it may be near your clothes washer or hot water heater or may be located under the house in the crawl space. Be sure to locate and mark the main water valve before you need it. That way, you will be able to find and close it quickly should a water leak occur.

7. Are adjustments made for water leaks between my meter and my house or due to a leaky toilet?

Upon approval of the Utility Billing Supervisor and with proof of water leak repair, we may defer the water consumption portion of your bill across the future 3-4 billing periods. It’s important to understand that any water that passes through the meter is the responsibility of the customer.

8. When is my bill due?

You’re billed every 2 months but because we bill different cycles each week, your bill will be generated and due at different times. Your billing schedule is mailed out toward the end of the year for the year in advance and is always provided to new customers at the time of sign-up. However, they are always available with the Utility Billing Department.

9. Can I change the due date of my bill?

Unfortunately, no. The due date of the bill is determined by your service address.

10. Are there any water restrictions?

No. At this time the City of Hemet has no water restrictions.