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1. Find Out More

Find out everything from how to become a volunteer to how to buy a work of art. 

Find Out More

2. Get Forms

Forms for becoming a gift shop consignor, a volunteer, or an exhibit partner.

Get Forms Here

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1. Can guests use the self-issued parking permits to park on the street when visiting?

Yes, simply print out the form, complete it and have guests place it on their vehicle's dashboard. Self-Issued Parking Permit

2. Are the parking permits exempt from the street sweeping restriction?

No. The Ash Street Cottages parking permit only allows residents to park on the restricted streets. Street sweeping restrictions are still in effect.

3. Does the 1-hour parking restriction on the east side of Walnut Ave apply to Ash Street Cottages residents?

Yes, the Ash Street Cottages parking permit do not exempt vehicles from the 1-hour parking restriction.

4. Can I obtain extra parking permit stickers for family members who visit regularly?

No, the parking permit stickers are for residents only. Guest can utilize the Self-Issued Parking Permit

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1. How Do I Contact a City Department?

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

2. How Do I Get Brea City Information?

There are a number of ways that information about city activities is routinely distributed into the community, such as this website and the bi-monthly Brea Line newsletter. Plus, press releases and social media posts are used along with printed flyers, postcards, posters and more which can be found at various civic locations. Residents are always encouraged to call or send a message through the "Tell Us" option on this website. Here are key information points.

Brea Information

3. Where Do I Call For ...?

City of Brea offices often receive calls seeking a variety of services. Although many of these requests are not actually for city operations, this collection of phone numbers is offered as a helpful courtesy.

Frequently Requested Numbers

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1. Do I need to pay a business license tax?

A business license is required of all businesses operating within the city limits, including home based operations and temporary activities or contractors with offices outside the City, but who are doing a project in Brea. Rates vary according to the type of business.

2. What is a business license tax?

A business license tax is an annual non-regulatory licensing fee levied by individual California cities and counties for the privilege of conducting business within a particular city or county jurisdiction. Business license fees are due and payable prior to commencing business within a particular city or county.

The fees assessed are intended to raise revenue for the general operating requirements of individual cities and counties. The City of Brea business license revenue is used to pay for police, fire, and safety expenses as well as other general operating costs of the city.

3. How much will my business tax cost?

When applying for a business license or renewing, the automated system will calculate your business tax for you.  When you click on “here” under Business License Requirements, you will be redirected to the Brea Business License portal managed by HdL Companies.  However, if you’d like to calculate the tax, click here for easy to follow instructions.  Keep in mind, the example provided is for a Business License Tax on Service only.  Tax rates vary based on the type of business activity.

4. How do I apply as a Sidewalk Vendor?

Sidewalk Vending Permit - Effective January 1, 2019, no person shall engage in any sidewalk vendor activities without first applying for and receiving a permit from the City. All vendors must ensure compliance with the requirements outlined in city’s Resolution No. 2021-048 and Sidewalk Policy.  Every person shall apply for the permit prior to engaging in any vending and pay the appropriate fee established by City Council. A sidewalk vendor permit is non-transferable and shall expire on December 31 of the current calendar year.  To renew your permit, you must resubmit an application.  For questions, please email BusinessLicenseInfo@cityofbrea.net.  We will respond to inquiries within 48 hours during normal business hours.

• Sidewalk Vending Resolution and Policy
• Sidewalk Vending Application

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1. How do I get information about joining the Brea Police Department?

For information about joining the Brea Police Department, visit www.joinbreapd.net or call (714) 990-7715.  For a list of current openings visit https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/brea/.

2. Can I apply for any position at anytime?

The City of Brea only accepts applications for positions that are advertised as open. To submit interest for a position that is not open, complete an interest card at www.jobs.cityofbrea.net.  Once an interest card is submitted, you will be automatically notified via email upon the opening of the selected position.

3. How will I know what jobs I am qualified for and when to apply?

There are several ways you can stay on top of available positions. We recommend that you create a profile by visiting https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/brea/. The system allows you to review job descriptions and requirements, see a current list of jobs, apply for a position and track the application process. If you are interested in a job that is not currently open, you can also complete an online interest card and you will be notified by email. Additionally, when a position becomes available, the system will send an announcement for the position, known as a “Career Opportunity Bulletin.” The bulletin contains the salary range, information on the position, the application and selection process, examples of duties and essential qualifications, including education, experience and applicable licenses and certificates. 

4. How do I file my employment application?

To submit an online employment application, go to https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/brea/. Computer access is also available at many public libraries. If you need assistance completing the online employment application please contact the Human Resources Division at (714)990-7726.

5. What are some other things I need to know when applying?

--In order for your application to receive the full consideration it deserves, it is very important that you fill out the online application completely, even if you choose to include a resume. Do not simply state "See Resume" when asked to describe your responsibilities and experience, as your resume will not be considered as qualifying. Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of information you provide on the application itself. Your resume will only be reviewed for clarification purposes. 

--Occasionally, a completed supplemental questionnaire will be required along with the employment application. The supplemental questionnaire focuses on the key responsibilities of the position for which you are applying, and allows you to elaborate on your previous experience in areas of particular relevance to the job. Make sure you fully complete this important addendum to the application. Even qualified applicants will not be considered for a position if they fail to submit the required supplemental questionnaire. 

--All online applications must be submitted prior to any position's closing deadline. Postmarks, emails, facsimiles and hand deliveries of applications or application materials cannot be accepted.

6. What does "Ongoing" mean?

When this deadline-free approach is indicated on the Career Opportunity Bulletin or in the online posting, it means that the position will close without notice once a sufficient number of applications from qualified individuals have been received. Call the Human Resources Division at (714) 990-7726 to confirm that the position has not closed. Or simply check availability by visting https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/brea/. 

7. What should I do if I have a change of address or phone number?

If you are participating in an active recruitment process, you should immediately update your profile by visiting https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/brea/. The City will not be responsible for updating online profiles.

8. If I have previously completed an application, will I be automatically considered for other positions?

You must submit a separate application for each position to which you are interested in applying. Your application is evaluated on how well your training and experience match the particular position for which you are applying. Resumes are not accepted in lieu of the City of Brea employment application and responses such as "See Resume" will not be considered.

A "master" application might not do you justice in every case, and it may be to your benefit to tailor your application to highlight the skills you possess that are most suited to the position you are applying for. Once you have applied online, modify and resubmitting your application for another position is a simple procedure.

9. What happens after I file my application?

You will receive an email notification on the status of your application as quickly as possible, after the filing deadline. Each application is given careful review and consideration. Recruitments that generate a large interest may take longer to process.

10. What are the steps or phases of the recruitment selection process?

The selection process is designed by the Hiring Department and the Human Resources division when the position opens. Each Career Opportunity Bulletin will, or online posting contains a description of the selection process that will be used for that specific open position. The final outcome of the selection process (whether it involves an application screening or a multiple-step testing process),results in a list of qualified candidates (called an Employment Eligibility List) for consideration by the Hiring Department. The Hiring Department is free to contact anyone on the Employment Eligibility List for a second interview.

11. If an examination is given, does everyone who applies for the recruitment take the test?

Before any decision is made regarding who should be invited to a test, each application is carefully reviewed based upon the requirements of the position. Only those candidates whose experience and training most closely match the City's requirements for the position, as indicated in the City of Brea employment application, will be invited to take part in the competitive testing process. If you receive notice that you are not among the highest qualified candidates, do not be discouraged. Sometimes the competition is pretty tough! We encourage you to try again in the future should a position become available.

12. What happens after I complete a recruitment examination?

You will be notified of your test results as soon as possible by email, typically within one to three weeks depending on the type of test and the position. If you have successfully passed a written or practical examination, you may be invited to the next phase of the recruitment process.

13. What should I do if I am contacted for an interview?

Preparation is key. Don’t walk into the interview not knowing much about the position or the City of Brea. Be certain that you know where and when to report and the position for which you are being considered. Make sure you are on time, or early for the interview. This is important if you have applied for more than one position. Be sure to obtain the name and telephone number of the person who contacted you for the interview, or save the email if the arrangements were made by email.

14. What will the interview be like?

Generally, the interview is conducted by an oral board made up of three panelists. Often the panelists will come from different departments, and/or outside agencies. During your interview, you will be asked several structured and situational questions to help the panelists understand your education and work experience as it relates to the position.

15. What happens after the interview?

You will be notified of your interview results within one week by email. If you have been successful, your name will be placed on an Employment Eligibility List for the position. The City of Brea maintains full list certification, which means that the names of eligible candidates are placed on the Employment Eligibility List in alphabetical order. The Eligibility List is then sent to the Hiring Department. The Hiring Department may conduct second interviews and hire anyone from the Eligibility List. The Hiring Department is not bound to consider candidates in score or rank order. The Eligibility List for the job classification will remain in effect for a specified period of time, usually one year for Full-Time positions. Future vacancies may be filled from the Eligibility List on a City-wide basis.

16. Does the Human Resources division conduct the selection interviews?

Typically, the Human Resources division is not involved in the final selection decision. The City's objective is to hire the best person for the position. The Human Resources division recruits, screens, and tests applicants based upon requirements for the position in order to create a pool of eligible candidates for consideration. The supervisors or managers in the hiring department review this pool of candidates, evaluate each candidate's qualification for the particular job, and make a job offer.

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1. What is the new urban run-off rate?

A fee has been approved for implementation of a comprehensive stormwater program in accordance with NPDES (National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System) permit requirements. This is a federally mandated program for which Brea has almost $326,000 of annual projected costs. Again, investment in a sound local program protects Brea from severe consequences and stiff fines that would result should a permit violation occur.

2. What does the new stormwater rate mean for me?

A flat rate is proposed of $1.88 per month for single family homes and $0.87 for multifamily units. Commercial entities would pay more in proportion to their operation. The fee model recovers costs of adopting required BMPs (best management practices) and conducting inspections for construction, industrial, and commercial sites, plus engaging in required public education.

3. What is planned to protect Brea?

Capital improvement projects over the next 15 years, with estimated costs over $19 million, will address identified capacity and condition deficiencies. Responsible planning insures good service to customers will continue and that Brea can “pay as it goes.” Projects would only be undertaken as sufficient funds are collected to cover costs. This is preferable to using bonds, which generate long-term debt, as an ongoing funding mechanism to accomplish these needed projects.

Several high priority projects include replacement and up sizing of sewer mains along Brea Creek Channel and areas south of Imperial Highway. These projects are expected to be completed within the first five years after adoption of new rates.

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1. How do I reserve picnic areas for parties?

The City of Brea does not allow picnic areas to be reserved in advance. Picnic areas can be utilized on a first come-first-serve basis.

2. Can I have a bounce houses at a City park?

Bounce houses and generators are prohibited for use at City parks.

3. Can I access electricity at City Parks?

Electrical outlets are not active and electricity is not available for regular park use.

4. Can I have amplified sound at a City park?

No, amplified sound it prohibited.

5. Can I conduct for profit business at a City park?

City parks may not be utilized to conduct business for compensation.

6. How can I have ballfield lights turned on for field use?

Lights are only available for Brea based non-profit user groups who pay an annual maintenance operations fee.

7. Can I park overnight at a City park?

No, parking at City parks is only allowed between the hours of 7 a.m. and 10 p.m.

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1. Where do I report a problem in a park?

To do this, all parks are inspected frequently for damage, cleanliness and other safety issues. If you notice something amiss call (714) 990-7691 to report the problem, or if you see a parks worker nearby, let him know.

2. How do I get my parkway tree trimmed?

Each type of city-owned parkway tree has been assigned a trimming schedule. This is every three years for all trees except palm trees. The palm trees are trimmed on a yearly schedule. Based on this schedule, the City of Brea contracts with a vendor to trim the trees. If you believe your tree needs trimming now, call 714-990-7691 to make a request.

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1. How Are CalPERS Benefits Funded?

The largest contribution to fund CalPERS benefits comes from investment dollars.   The below CalPERS Pension Buck illustrates the sources of income that fund public employee pensions.  Based on data over the past 20 years ending June 30, 2020, for every dollar CALPERS pays in pension:

• 55 cents comes from investment earnings
• 32 cents from employer contributions
• 13 cents from employee contributions

In other words, 68 cents out of every public employee pension dollar is funded by CalPERS' own investment earnings and member contributions. In the fiscal year ended June 2020, CalPERS paid out nearly $ 25.8 billion in pension benefits.

Source: https://www.calpers.ca.gov/page/about/organization/facts-at-a-glance/pension-buck

2. Investment & Pension Terminology

Actuarial Report – An actuarial valuation is a type of appraisal which requires making economic and demographic assumptions in order to estimate future liabilities. The assumptions are typically based on a mix of statistical studies and experienced judgment.

California Rule – The California Rule is the result of a 1955 court case (Allen v. City of Long Beach) that concludes that an employee’s pension benefit as of the date of hire constitutes a contractual obligation. The California Supreme Court ruled that “Changes in a pension plan which result in a disadvantage to employees should be accompanied by comparable new advantages”. The 1955 ruling is currently being contested.

Defined Benefit Plan (DBP) – A type of pension plan in which an employer/sponsor promises a specified monthly benefit upon retirement that is predetermined by a formula based on the employee's earnings history, tenure of service and age.

Defined Contribution Plan (DCP) – A type of retirement plan in which a certain amount or percentage of money is set aside each year by a company (or employee) for the benefit of each of its employees. Benefits directly depend upon individual investment returns.

Discount Rate – Also known as the expected rate of return or the assumed rate of return. It is the estimated long-term average return expected to be earned on investments.

Employee Contribution – The portion of normal cost required to be paid by the employee, subject to the local agencies negotiated memorandums of understanding with applicable employee groups.

Employer Contribution – The portion of normal cost required to be paid by the employer, determined by periodic actuarial valuations under state law and based on the agency’s benefit formulas and employee groups covered.

Funded Ratio - Percentage of assets available today to pay all of the pension benefits promised to employees.

Normal Costs – The annual cost of service accrual for the upcoming fiscal year for active employees. The normal cost should be view as the long-term contribution rate for existing employees.

PEPRA - Public Employees’ Pension Reform Act of 2013 – A pension reform bill that went into effect January 1, 2013. The bill impacts new public employees and establishes a limit on the amount of compensation that can be used to calculate a retirement benefit.

Superfunded – A term used to describe periods in which total available CalPERS assets exceed the total CalPERS liability.

Unfunded Accrued Liability (UAL) – Portion of the plan’s unfunded liability that is not funded by the plan’s asset value.

3. Links for More Information

Click here to view the Public Agency Actuarial Valuation Reports on the CalPERS website.

To see additional information regarding Brea's finances, click here.

4. Public Access to Actuarial Valuation Reports

https://www.calpers.ca.gov/page/employers/actuarial-resources/public-agency-actuarial-valuation-reports

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1. Can I park my vehicle on the street overnight?

Parking on all city streets is restricted to 30 minutes between the hours of 2-6 a.m. Residents without adequate on-site parking (garage, carport, or driveway) can apply for an annual parking permit at the Community Development Department on the third floor of the Brea Civic and Cultural Center. View qualification information or get an application under Community Development section in this website. Look for the selection "Street Parking Permits." There is also an online temporary, self-issued permit there. for questions, call 714-671-4406.

2. Who do I call about flies, rats and mosquitoes?

The County of Orange Vector Control Agency handles all calls regarding fly, rat, and mosquito infestations. The number to call is (714) 971-2421.

3. Where do I report graffiti?

The City of Brea maintains a hotline for the reporting of graffiti. It is available 24 hours per day. Call (714) 671-4465 to make a recorded report.

4. There is a dead animal in the street, how can it be removed?

The City of Brea contracts with the County of Orange for animal control services. Dead animals can be reported by calling Animal Control at (714) 935-6848.

5. How do I check park field conditions?

The Community Services Department maintains a hotline that announces field open or closed conditions. The hotline can be reached by dialing (714) 671-4437.

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1. I see advertising signs in street medians. Who can get rid of those?

If you notice debris, damage, or unsightly temporary signs (many of which are illegal, by the way) in parks or public spaces, such as city buildings and medians, please call Public Works at 714 990-7691 to report it. These will be removed.

2. Why did the street sweeper skip my house today?

A parked car was blocking the area. Street sweepers take up to two car lengths, before and after parked vehicles, to swing out and around a parked car. The City of Brea has a general parking ordinance regarding parking on street sweeping days and tickets can be issued to vehicles illegally parked in the sweeper's path.

Contact the Public Works Department at 714-990-7691 with questions about street sweeping days and rules.

3. How do I get a pothole repaired?

Call the Public Works Department at (714) 990-7691 to report a pothole. The Department attempts to be proactive in repairing potholes, but your help is needed in finding all of them. The department will dispatch a repair crew to the site and make needed repairs, except for Valencia Avenue, Carbon Canyon Road and Imperial Highway, all of which are repaired by CalTrans.

4. Can I paint my own address number on a street curb?

You may paint your street curbs with their address number by following guidelines consistent with Brea City Code. View the guidelines on how to paint your address number.

• Curb Address Painting Policy
• Curb Painting Diagram

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1. Where is the theatre located?

We're glad you're interested in visiting us!

The Curtis Theatre is located at the Brea Civic & Cultural Center which is on the corner of Birch St & Randolph Ave. You can find us on the Plaza level.

Our address is 1 Civic Center Cir Brea, CA 92821

We're across the street from the Brea Marketplace shopping center and to the north side of the Brea Mall. 

2. Where do I park?

You've already paid for your ticket; you don't need to pay for parking.

You can find free underground parking via Civic Center, located between the Brea Civic & Cultural Center & Embassy Suites

Once you park, take the elevator up to the Plaza Level 1 & look for the Curtis Theatre & enjoy the show!

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1. What information will I need to pay my water utility bill?

You will need the following information:

• Your utility account number found on your most recent billing statement.
• The balance owed on your bill, which you receive in the mail.
• Your checking account information or your debit or credit card number.

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1. My water bill usage seems higher than it should be. What can I do?

Oftentimes water usage increases due to a leaky faucet or toilet. If you cannot pinpoint a leak, call 714-990-7691 and schedule free leak detection from the Water Division. A courteous, knowledgeable representative will come to your residence and perform a check to help you find a leak. Also, at your request, the city can provide a free conservation kit, which includes a shower head flow tester, a new flapper for the toilet tank, a water gauge to check lawn sprinklers, and wildflower seeds.

2. I have a water leak at my house. Will the city fix it?

The homeowner is responsible for all water leaks after the water meter and inside the house. The water meter is generally located in the parkway in front of the property. Public Works will assist you in turning off the water at the meter in order to allow you or your plumber to do repairs. Call 714-990-7691 to schedule this service. If you cannot pinpoint a leak, call to schedule free leak detection from the Water Division.

3. I notice water overflowing into the storm drain. Where do I report this?

Please report water waste and excessive flows into streets or storm drains to 714-990-7672.

4. Where does Brea water come from?

Brea purchases water from two suppliers. One is the Metropolitan Water District, which is surface water from the Colorado River and the California Water Project. The second is Cal Domestic Water Company, which is pumped from wells in the San Gabriel Valley. These two waters are blended to provide the water you get from the tap.

Each year the city publishes a consumer confidence report detailing the levels of minerals found in the water. A copy is sent out to each water customer. Specific questions can be answered by the water supervisor by calling 714-990-7691.