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Campground

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1. Where is the campground

It's located at 1150 Rufus Allen Blvd, South Lake Tahoe...come on up! Map to location

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City Attorney

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1. Who does the City Attorney work for?

The City Attorney is appointed by, and serves at the pleasure of, the City Council.

2. Can the City Attorney give me legal advice about a legal issue?

No. The City Attorneyrepresents the city government. The City Attorney acts as corporate counsel to the City executives and managers of the municipal corporation and thus does not, and cannot, give legal advice to the public.

3. What type of litigation does the City Attorney's office handle?

The City Attorney's office represents the city in any litigation filed against it. Additionally, the City Attorney will initiate litigation in matters involving violations of the municipal code.

4. How do I file a claim for damages against the City?

You may access and print a Liability Claim Form or you may call the risk management coordinator at (530) 542-6063 and request that a form be mailed to you. Procedures for filling out the claim form are attached to the form itself. Please note, claims generally must be filed no later than six months after the occurrence.

5. How do I submit a small claims action?

Small claims actions must be filed through through the El Dorado County Superior Court and not with the City of South Lake Tahoe.

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City Clerk

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1. How is the city governed?

The City of South Lake Tahoe is a general law city and uses a Council-Manager form of government. Five Council Members, elected at large for four-year staggered terms, govern the City. The City Clerk and City Treasurer are also elected by the voters and each serve a four year term.

Each year in December, the Council Members choose which of them will serve the following year as Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem. The Mayor is the presiding officer of the Council. In the absence of the Mayor, the Mayor Pro Tem serves as Mayor

2. Where do I get a document notarized?

The City Clerk is a Notary Public and will notarize documents by appointment. Call (530) 542-6005

3. Where can I find the City's Codes and Ordinances online?

Follow this link to the entire city code, which has search capabilities, and is separated by topic as well. Link to City Codes and Ordinances online

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Design Questions

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1. What are the setback requirements for an ADU?

A detached ADU must have side and rear setbacks of at least four feet. Otherwise, setbacks applicable to other structures on the parcel apply.  See City Code Section 6.85.030.A.1 for residential setback requirements.

2. Are there architectural style or design criteria for an ADU?

ADUs must be designed and constructed to architecturally and aesthetically match the existing single-family dwelling in terms of exterior materials, colors, building elements, structure mass and roof pitch.

3. Is parking required for an ADU?

An ADU must provide one parking space in addition to parking required for the primary dwelling. The parking space may be covered or uncovered and can be provided on an existing paved driveway. However, in the following instances, no additional parking space is required:

a.    The accessory dwelling unit is located within one-half mile walking distance of public transit, including transit stations and bus stops.

b.    The accessory dwelling unit is located within a historic district.

c.    The accessory dwelling unit is part of the proposed or existing primary residence or an accessory structure.

d.    When on-street parking permits are required but not offered to the occupant of the accessory dwelling unit.

e.    When there is a designated car share vehicle parking space located within one block of the accessory dwelling unit.

When a garage, carport, or covered parking structure providing required parking for the primary residence or residences is demolished to allow for the construction of an ADU or is converted to an ADU, those parking spaces are not required to be replaced.

4. Are fire sprinklers required in an ADU?

If the ADU meets the standards of the City ordinance and the following criteria, fire sprinklers are not required:

a.    The unit meets the definition of an Accessory Dwelling Unit in the Government Code (section 65852.2).

b.    The existing primary residence is not required to have an automatic residential sprinkler system.

c.    The unit is on the same lot as the primary residence.

5. Are solar panels required for an ADU?

The 2019 Energy Code PV system prescriptive requirements under Section 150.1(c)14 apply only to newly constructed detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Exceptions from this requirement may be granted based on limited solar exposure or high snow load.  See the City Solar Photovoltaic Exceptions handout for more information.

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Development Services

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1. How do I schedule an inspection?

You can schedule an inspection online or by calling (530) 542-6017. 

The following information is required when requesting an inspection:

• A description of the type of inspection
• Name and contact information
• Permit number (when applicable)
• Project address
• Date inspection needed (if different from standard inspection scheduling time)

2. When is my inspection?

Inspections are conducted Monday - Friday, between 9:00 am - 3:30 pm. The Building Inspector will call you 10 - 15 minutes prior to the inspection. Inspections requested before 3:00 pm on any business day will be scheduled for the next business day. Inspections requested after 3:00 pm will be scheduled for the day after the next business day (unless another date is requested). 

3. Do you have the original plans for my house? If not, what should I do?

We do not have original plans for homes built in the City prior to 2017.  In 2017, updated technology provided the Development Services Department the ability to save plans digitally. If your home was built in 2017 or later, there is a good chance we have copies of plans, anything prior to that, we suggest checking TRPA's website: LTinfo.org, or you may have to hire an Architect.

4. Can I submit my Building Permit application online?

Yes, please see our Building Permits page for more information

5. What is the status of my Building Permit or Plan Submittal?

Please call the Permit Center at (530) 542-6010 or send an e-mail to permitcenter@cityofslt.us for a status update.

6. How long does a Plan Review of a project take to be completed?

This really depends on the project and the accuracy of your submittal.  We average 45 - 60 days in review.

7. Can I add a shed without a Building Permit?

Click here for more information

8. Do I need a permit to build a deck if I am replacing “like for like”?

Yes, you need a Building Permit with plans stamped by a CA licensed engineer and a TRPA QE Permit, all which can be done at the City. Click here for more information.

9. Do I need a permit for a window change-out?

Yes. Windows should be checked for proper installation and location of tempered glass where needed. If the glass is the only thing that is being replaced, no permit is required.

10. Do I need a permit for a new driveway or to work on an existing driveway?

Yes, an Encroachment Permit is required to do any work on your driveway. All driveways are to be paved with an acceptable material, have an associated BMP to manage the Stormwater runoff, and comply with TRPA land coverage regulations. Please contact the Permit Center for any questions regarding the work that can be performed on your new or existing driveway.

11. Do I need a permit to build a fence?

Residential Fences

As of April 1, 2021 construction of new fences and modification of legally existing fences where residential uses exist on parcels in residential Plan Areas no longer requires approval of a Fence Permit from the City if the fence design and installation complies with City Code Section 6.85.030.  Use the RESIDENTIAL FENCE AND WALL STANDARDS checklist to determine compliance. Fences constructed or modified to be inconsistent with these standards may be subject to City Code violations and fines.

Residential Fence and Wall Standards checklist

Non-Residential Fences

New or modified fences on property where commercial, industrial, public service, and recreation uses exist or in areas outside of residential Plan Areas require approval of a Fence permit by the City.  Use the Fence Permit Checklist to determine applicable standards and include the completed Checklist along with your Fence Permit Application.

Fence Permit Checklist

Fence Permit Application

12. Do I need a permit for a canopy or carport?

Yes, you need a permit for a canopy or carport. Fabric, canvas, or plastic covered structures over 120 square feet are not permitted. Metal clad structures could be permitted with specific requirements. Please reach out to the Permit Center (530) 542-6010 for more information.

13. How do I get permit information on a house I want to purchase?

You can submit a Public Records request here, or stop by our office (1052 Tata Lane) to review the property folder. Copies are available for $.10 a page or can be emailed.

14. How do I find out the coverage for my property?

The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) is the authority for coverage in the basin.  They perform Site Assessments and Land Coverage Verifications. You can view all current activity, permits, etc. for your property on LTInfo.org.

15. How can I find out what the square footage of my home is?

To find out what the square footage of a parcel, lot or house is, please contact the El Dorado County Assessor's Office: (530) 573-3422

16. Who should I speak to about defensible space or to schedule a defensible space inspection?

For information about defensible space, or to schedule a defensible space inspection, please click here. For additional information or questions, you may reach out to Dan Brown, Fire Safety Inspector: dbrown@cityofslt.us; (530) 542-6019.

17. Who can I speak to about allocations/development rights?

Please reach out to the Planning Department at (530) 542-7472; planner@cityofslt.us.

18. How much are fees?

You can find information about permit fees here.  You may also reach out to the Permit Center at (530) 542-6010 or send an e-mail to permitcenter@cityofslt.us for more specific information or if you have questions.

19. Where can I find more information about Building Codes?

You can find Building Code information here, or reach out to Dave Chapman, Principal Building Inspector: (530) 542-6193, dchapman@cityofslt.us.

20. How do I file a housing complaint?

You may file a housing complaint via our online webform, or by calling (530) 542-7417. For more information about housing programs and resources, including Multi-Family Dwelling (MFD) Units, the Single Room Occupancy (SRO) Program or substandard housing, please click here.

21. How do I file a noise complaint?

Please reach out to Code Enforcement about public nuisance abatement, including noise complaints and abandoned vehicles: (530) 542-6105.

22. Who do I speak to about tree removal?

You can find information about tree removal by visiting the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency's (TRPA) website or by calling (775) 588 - 4547.

23. Who should I talk to about drainage issues?

Contact the Public Works Department regarding Storm Water, drainage issues, or easements: (530) 542-6034.

24. Who can I talk to if I have questions about Business Licenses?

Contact the Finance Department: (530) 542-7430.

25. How do I apply for a marriage license?

Marriage Licenses are issued through the El Dorado County Recorder Clerk's Office: (530) 621-5490.

26. I have an ADA question, who do I speak to?

Becky Penado, ARM, Risk Manager for the City of South Lake Tahoe can answer your ADA questions: (530) 542-6064. More information about the Americans with Disabilities Act can be found here.

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Fire

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1. Is today a burn day?

There is no open burning allowed in the City limits of South Lake Tahoe. BBQ's are acceptable if they are used for cooking food.
If you live in the County, please call the following number to find out if today is a burn day: 1-888-332-2876 1-888-EDC-BURN

2. I need to get a defensible space inspection - how do I do that?

Please call the City Fire Inspector at (530)542-7428 to get an inspection. The inspector can do a defensible space inspection for you and make recommendations or note violations. If you have a hazardous tree that needs to be removed, please call the TRPA. Their forester will be able to issue a tree cutting permit if appropriate. The TRPA's number is 775-588-4547.

3. I need to drop off a set of plans, where should I do that?

You can drop off your plans at the City Building Department, which is located at 1052 Tata Lane South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150. The main phone number is (530) 542-6010 for any other questions.

4. Can I have a fire pit in my yard?

At this time, there is a No Open Burning policy in place in the city limits of South Lake Tahoe. Even if your pit is the metal or mesh kind that you can purchase at the store and even if it has a metal lid, you may not use them in the city limits at this time. BBQs are acceptable, as long as you are cooking food with them.

5. When can I cut my tree without a permit from the Fire Department?

You may cut trees on your property if:1:They are dead. 2: If they are UNDER 14'' in diameter at 4 1/2 feet off of the ground on the uphill side. 3:If your tree is in a shorezone, which means in between your house and the lake, you may only cut without a permit if it is UNDER 6" in diameter at 4 1/2 feet off the ground on the uphill side. If you think you might need a permit, please call the TRPA at 775-588-4547.

6. Why do Engines and Ambulances respond to calls together?

The fire department provides the first critical parts of a tiered Emergency Medical System. The premise is to send the closest medically trained response unit to the scene of a life threatening medical emergency to provide the quickest intervention, the highest chance of survival and recovery. This is critical in emergencies resulting in those with compromised breathing or circulatory systems. Trauma, strokes, heart attack, allergic reactions, and choking are all emergencies that require the rapid intervention of the closest units. If any of these conditions lead to heart attack or shock, failure to provide rapid treatment within 4-6 minutes could lead to irreversible brain damage and most likely death. Rapid defibrillation in the case of a heart attack, as well as, oxygen therapy provides the heart attack and stroke patient with the best chance of survival.

South Lake Tahoe Dispatch provides the first contact with the patient utilizing a Emergency Medical Dispatching System (EMD) to determine chief complaint, Location, units to respond and pre-arrival Instructions if needed. The fire department provides the first two tiers of emergency medical treatment through Paramedic staffed Advanced Life Support (ALS) Ambulances and Basic Life Support (BLS) Staffed Fire Engines. All non-Paramedic units are staffed with a minimum of Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Level personnel and defibrillation capability. The fire department is the exclusive provider of extrication and disentanglement for trapped victims. South Lake Tahoe Fire and Lake Valley Fire provide ambulance service through the Cal-Tahoe JPA as the next tier of the system. They provide advance drug therapy and some invasive procedures, as well as transport patients to the hospital. Medical Air Ambulance is provided by Cal-Star as a primary County Franchise and Care-Flight as back-up.

Together, the tiers provide a network for the patient regardless of who arrives on scene first. Often times the patient has the best chance of survival when all of the responders work together on the scene. Often times, patients require more than two personnel for care. This is particularly true when families or others are present creating another facet for the responders to deal with. In these and the more complex calls, a Company Officer is required to buffer the actions and develop and maintain command of the scene. The more complex incidents may require more manpower to deliver care with timeliness a critical aspect. Responding the first tier with the next as a baseline ensures this delivery of critical care. When the engine companies arrive first, care will be transferred immediately upon arrival of the upper tier (ambulance) from the EMTs to the Paramedics. On incidents where the Engine Companies are on scene first and the ambulance has an extended response time, the patient is stabilized by the EMTs and packaged to minimize the on scene time when the next tier (ambulance) arrives. This aspect is critical in some patients and a minimal scene time with rapid transport is critical for survival.

7. I live in South Lake Tahoe, but outside of the city limits. What fire agency serves my area?

Lake Valley Fire Protection district serves South Lake Tahoe in El Dorado County. Their phone number is (530) 577-3737. Their address is 2211 Keetak St South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

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General Questions

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1. Where are ADUs allowed?

An ADU is permitted on parcels zoned for single and multiple family residential land uses where a primary dwelling is proposed or existing.

2. Can a portion of an existing house, garage or other accessory structure be converted to an ADU?

Yes, provided the structure was legally constructed with building permits and the structure can be upgraded to meet the building code requirements for a living unit. When an existing garage or other accessory structure is converted to an ADU, no additional building setback is required. The ADU must have independent exterior access from the existing residence.

3. What is the minimum lot size required for an ADU?

There is no minimum lot size required for an ADU.

4. Can an ADU be constructed above or attached to a garage?

Yes, provided the garage was legally constructed with building permits and the structure can be upgraded to meet the building code requirements for a second story and a living unit. An ADU constructed above a garage must meet the setbacks required for that parcel.

5. How big can an ADU be?

An ADU with less than 2 bedrooms can be up to 850 square feet and with 2 bedrooms can be up to 1,000 square feet. An attached ADU is limited to 50% of the primary dwelling floor area. A JADU can be up to 500 square feet and needs to be built within the framework of a single family detached primary dwelling.

6. How many ADUs can I build on my property?

Where ADUs are permissible, each single-family parcel is able to have up to three dwellings. One primary dwelling, one detached ADU and one Junior ADU or one detached ADU and one attached ADU.  Two detached ADUs, up to 800 square feet each, are allowed on parcels where multi-family structures exist as long as the number of converted ADUs within a structure does not exceed 25% of the existing units. There is no limit on the square footage of the primary dwelling.

7. Can I add a “tiny home” as an ADU?

Tiny homes are residential dwellings that are 400 square feet or less and there are a variety of types (i.e. manufactured, factory built, stick built, park model RV). Tiny homes are allowed as ADUs in the City if they are on permanent foundations and meet California Residential Building Code requirements.

8. What if my HOA does not allow an ADU?

Homeowner associations (HOAs and CC&Rs) must allow the construction of ADUs according to recent state legislation.

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Junior ADUs

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1. What is a Junior ADU?

A Junior ADU is a living unit of 500 square feet or less contained completely in a single-family dwelling through the conversion of an existing bedroom. A Junior ADU must have independent exterior access, include an efficiency kitchen, and have sanitation facilities that are either shared with or separate from the primary dwelling.

2. What is the difference between an ADU and a Junior ADU?

An ADU can be attached or detached from the primary dwelling. A Junior ADU needs to be built with the framework of the primary dwelling.

3. Where are Junior ADUs allowed?

A Junior ADU is permitted on parcels zoned for single and multiple family residential land uses where a primary dwelling is proposed or existing.

4. Is a permit required for a new Junior ADU?

Yes, in all cases a permit from the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) and a City building permit are required. An approved TRPA permit is required prior to issuance of a City Building Permit. Property owners interested in constructing an ADU on their property are encouraged to speak with our Development Services team prior to preparing construction documents, to discuss your concept and verify what permits will be needed. Please call (530) 542-6010 or e-mail at planner@cityofslt.us.

5. Can a Junior ADU be sold separately from the primary residence?

No, junior ADUs cannot be sold separately. A deed restriction will be required in order to disclose this to future property owners.

6. What is the maximum size a Junior ADU can be?

The maximum square footage of a Junior ADU is 500 square feet.  

7. Is parking required for a Junior ADU?

No.

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Operating Questions

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1. Can an ADU be sold separately from the primary residence?

No, an ADU cannot be sold separately from the primary dwelling unit.

2. Can an ADU be rented?

Yes, however, rental of the ADU for thirty (30) days or less (Vacation Home Rental) is prohibited.

3. Does the property owner need to reside on the property?

When a Junior ADU is developed on the property, the property owner must reside on the property in either the primary dwelling or Junior ADU.

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Permitting Questions

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1. Is a permit required for a new ADU?

Yes, in all cases a permit from the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) and a City building permit are required. An approved TRPA permit is required prior to issuance of a City Building Permit. Property owners interested in constructing an ADU on their property are encouraged to speak with our Development Services team prior to preparing construction documents, to discuss your concept and verify what permits will be needed. Please call (530) 542-6010 or e-mail at planner@cityofslt.us.

2. What are the TRPA requirements for ADUs?

ADUs are subject to compliance with the TRPA Code of Ordinances, including requirements for a residential development right/allocation, residential unit of use, or bonus unit and land coverage limitations.   Additional information can be found at: https://www.trpa.gov/adus/

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Planning & Zoning

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1. Are all commercial uses allowed in commercial areas?

No. The City is divided into multiple plan areas and community plan areas. Each area has a statement or use matrix that describes permissible uses that are “Allowed” or “Special” which means they must be considered under the provision of a special use permit. Uses that are determined to not be compatible in a certain area are not listed and are prohibited.

2. When is a Fence Permit required?

A fence permit is required for any new non-residential fence. Routine maintenance and minor repairs to a non-residential fence may not require a Fence Permit as deemed by City staff. If reconstruction of a damaged nonconforming fence is to be done, a fence permit application will need to be submitted to the Planning Division. Planning staff will determine whether repairs or reconstruction of a nonconforming fence will need to be brought into conformance upon review of the application. Note: A “nonconforming fence” means a fence which does not meet the fence requirements in the City Code such as height, material, setback, or clear zone.

Construction of new residential fences and modification of legally existing residential fences on parcels in residential Plan Areas no longer requires approval of a Fence Permit from the City if the fence design and installation complies with City Code Section 6.85.030.  The residential fence and wall standards checklist can be used to determine compliance. Fences constructed or modified to be inconsistent with these standards may be subject to City Code violations and fines.

3. When is a Sign Permit required?

A sign permit is needed anytime a business is installing new signs or changing their existing signage.

4. When is a Home Occupation Permit required?

A Home Occupation Permit is required for businesses operated in the home that meet the necessary criteria. If a permitted home occupation generates income at the home such as handicrafts, laundering, mail order, seamstress, handiwork, telephone sales, and artisans, a Home Occupation Permit is required provided all the criteria is met. A Home Occupation Permit is not required per the City of South Lake Tahoe Code § 32-26 if the business is only an office and office services, provided certain conditions are met. Please refer to the City of South Lake Tahoe Code § 32-25 for the requirements.

5. What are the setback requirements for residential and commercial?

There are setback requirements for any structure being built, including dwellings, garages, carports, storage sheds, decks, residential refuse receptacle shelters, commercial buildings, swimming pools, cornices, eaves and playground equipment per City Code § 32-14 through 32-18. You may view the setback handout on our website under Fees, Applications, and Checklists.

6. When is a Temporary Activity Permit required?

A temporary activity is an organized event or a commercial activity which does not occur more than four times in a calendar year and which does not exceed fourteen consecutive days in duration. Typical temporary activities that require a permit are grand opening sales, sidewalk sales, tent sales, street fairs, fundraising events, and holiday events.

Planning staff will review the application and will approve or deny the application based upon their findings associated to the type of activity, noise, parking, land coverage disturbance, signage, etc.

7. What is the process for addressing abandoned cars, garbage, trash, etc. on property?

Please contact the Community Services Officers at the Police Department. They will take your complaint information and address it. Their phone number is (530) 542-6136.

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Revenue

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1. How do I get a business license?

For information on How to Obtain a Business License, (also known as Business and Professional Tax Certificate), please follow the link below to the page on this website that provides a complete description. Then submit the completed application to the Revenue Division office: 1901 Lisa Maloff Way, Suite 210 South Lake Tahoe, CA 9610 revenue@cityofslt.us (this office is at the Airport)

More information

2. What are the requirements for new and current motel owners?

Current owners need to have a current business license and a Transient Occupancy Tax certificate. New motel owners are advised to meet with Revenue Division staff in person:
1901 Airport Rd.
Suite 210
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

3. How do I obtain a Vacation Rental Program permit?

Applications are handled by the City of South Lake Tahoe Police Department.

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Snow Removal

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1. Where can I park my vehicle during snow removal operations, if I cannot park in the street?

You must park your vehicle on your property and behind the berm. Cars parked in the City right-of-way are subject to citation and/or tow (City Code Section 26-42). The City right-of-way extends beyond the edge of the pavement to the property line, generally 5-10 feet beyond the edge of pavement. City Code Section 26-42

2. Why do I receive berms?

Gates on the snowplows were installed to minimize the impact of the berm; however, they do not eliminate them. Larger amounts of snowfall suggest a potentially larger berm. The plow blade can only carry so much snow. City Code Section 26-40.2

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Wireless Communications Facilities

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1. What is a Small Cell?

A “Small Wireless Facility” (SWF) or “Small Cell” is a type of wireless infrastructure. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) defines a small cell as any wireless facility that has an antenna no more than three cubic feet in volume, accessory equipment no more than 28 cubic feet in volume and are mounted on structures 50 feet or less in height (or 10% taller than adjacent structures, whichever is greater). They typically take the form of small antennas (3-4 feet tall) that are placed on existing infrastructure (such as utility poles) and are accompanied by equipment cabinets installed lower on the pole.

In order to meet increasing demand for mobile and data services, as well as future wireless technology, wireless service and infrastructure providers are supplementing traditional, larger cell phone towers with small cell facilities to densify their wireless networks. Small cells can also improve service today for areas lacking coverage.

2. What is a Macro Cell (traditional cell towers)?

Macro Wireless Facility” or “Macro Site” refers to a facility designed to provide wide-area service coverage and capacity. These are typically large installations with six to 12 antennas per carrier on tall towers or rooftops. Macro cells may also serve as a “hub” for distributed antenna system (DAS) nodes to connect back to a broader communications network.

3. Can the City of South Lake Tahoe prevent small cell facilities from being placed in the public right-of-way?

No. Small cell facilities are allowed in the public right-of-way per federal and state laws. The limitations on the city’s authority are similar to those imposed on it with respect to other utilities (electric, gas, water).

However, the City may regulate aesthetics (i.e., how a facility looks and, within a technically feasible tolerance, where it is located). The City of South Lake Tahoe’s City Code ensures facilities proposed in the public right-of-way are placed in a way that minimizes their impacts within the areas that the City is allowed to regulate. In addition, applications are evaluated in compliance with Encroachment Permit requirements.

For more information, please see the Federal Communication Commission’s (FCC) website.

4. Who governs the location of wireless facilities?

While the City of South Lake Tahoe reviews and approves the location of individual wireless applications, it must do so within parameters established by both federal and state laws that limit the City’s discretion.

5. Can the City prohibit the installation of small cells due to RF emissions or other health concerns?

Federal law (Telecommunications Act 1996) prohibits jurisdictions from considering health impacts when taking an action on a wireless application, if it meets the radio frequency levels established by the FCC and the FCC’s Office of Engineering and Technology (OET) Bulletin 65. Please refer to the FCC’s Wireless Devices Health Concerns webpage and Radiofrequency Safety FAQ for more information.

6. Can the City reject wireless communication facility applications and just say “no”?

Both state and federal law place some limitations on the City’s authority to regulate wireless communications facilities. Denials are possible only in very narrow circumstances and can be issued only on a case-by-case basis.

Collectively, these federal and state laws prohibit cities from:

• Denying a carrier the ability to provide service either through explicit prohibitions (example: banning all new wireless facilities) or through actions that effectively prohibit service (example: banning one specific facility necessary to complete a communication network).
• Unreasonably discriminating against functionally equivalent service providers. This requires cities to treat competitors in similar situations roughly the same. Cities may take into account legitimate differences such as the location, appearance of the equipment and cumulative impact of multiple facilities in the same location.
• Denying wireless applications based on health concerns, such as those previously expressed about radio frequency emissions.
• Stalling or failing to make a decision. The Telecommunications Act requires cities to act within a “reasonable” timeframe and the FCC has interpreted this to impose a short time frame, often referred to as a shot clock. The shot clock can be a short as 60 days and includes the appeal process. Failure to act on some applications may result in automatic approvals either under state or federal law.

7. How does the City currently permit new wireless communication facilities?

New wireless communication facilities are allowed by right in two planning areas of the City:

•  Within the South Y Industrial Tract Community Plan

•  Within the Commercial Mixed-Use Service District of the Tahoe Valley Area Plan

In all other areas, a Special Use Permit is required.  The Special Use Permit requires a public hearing before the Zoning Administrator or the Planning Commission. In addition, a Building Permit is required, and an Encroachment Permit is required when located in the City’s right of way.

8. Will I be noticed of a public hearing(s) for a new wireless communication facility?

New Facilities require noticing when a Special Use Permit is required pursuant to City Section 6.55.640.

9. Is there a limit to the number of cell facilities South Lake Tahoe can permit?

Cities cannot deny a carrier the ability to provide service either through explicit or implicit prohibitions (example: banning new wireless facilities or establishing a maximum cap).