The City is accepting online pre-applications for new permit requests for the following permits: planning permits, building/fire permits, and engineering permits. The pre-application is available online through Citizen Access. For more information, please visit the City's Pre-Application for Permits webpage.
 
The City is also accepting online payments for permit fees through Citizen Access. For more information, please read this City news article.

In addition, design review inspections for buildings under construction are now being handled remotely using photographs provided by the project contractor. All new buildings, additions to buildings, and building site improvements require design review inspections by City staff. Applicants should send an email with their permit number, project address, and photographs. For more information, please contact design review staff at 510-494-4480 or by email.

Fairfield Residential is now accepting pre-applications for Geo Apartments, a new affordable housing development located at 44728 Old Warm Springs Boulevard in the Warm Springs area of Fremont.

Geo Apartments includes 102 apartment homes to be leased to very low-income and low-income households. For more information, including income limits and rent ranges, please visit the City's webpage or LifeatGeo.com.

Pre-applications can be submitted online at LifeatGeo.com. The deadline to apply is July 10 by 5:00 p.m.

The City has launched a new pilot program, Pop Up Patio, for brick-and-mortar restaurants and retailers. The program will allow small businesses to use outdoor space to conduct business beginning June 19 by granting temporary access to adjacent public or private spaces in light of restricted indoor operations by Alameda County implemented to reduce the spread of COVID-19. 

Pop Up Patio will provide much-needed economic relief for businesses by developing a process that enables restaurants and retail businesses to move dining and commercial activities outdoors, where social distancing guidelines can be upheld and more customers can be safely served. In addition, customers will be able to socialize, support local businesses, and engage in their favorite activities while social distancing.

Restaurants and retailers that are interested in participating in Pop Up Patio can access the program application and view additional information by visiting the City's Pop Up Patio webpage.

A list of businesses participating in the program will also be shared with the community. Stay tuned!

The Bay Area Regional Energy Network (BayREN) is offering hot rebates this summer to help Fremont residents keep their homes cool. Through the Home+ program for homeowners, BayREN is offering an additional $1,000 to $5,000 in rebates for energy efficiency upgrades. Homeowners can get new efficient heating and air conditioning systems, weatherize their home, and better insulate their home to maximize the benefits. Qualifying projects must be installed by July 31 and rebate applications must be submitted by August 15. All contractors participating in the program have taken required COVID-19 safety trainings and building science courses. For more information, please visit the BayREN Residential website or call 1-866-878-6008.

Rebates for licensed contractors and property owners in Fremont are also available through BayREN's residential energy efficiency rebate programs. The following programs are available.

Home+ Program

• Up to $5,000 in rebates for insulation, duct replacement, furnaces, and water heaters for one to four unit homes

Heat Pump Water Heater Incentive

• $1,000 rebate for contractors for installing heat pump water heaters (funded by other sources; please check website for eligibility)

Bay Area Multifamily Building Enhancements Program

• Rebate of $750/unit for comprehensive energy and water upgrades to multifamily properties, with additional incentives available for electrification measures
• Property owners of eligible projects may hire any contractor and no pre-enrollment required

Calling all artists! The City is seeking artist proposals for the commission of a contemporary, innovative, and permanent public art installation for the new park planned in Fremont, Dusterberry Neighborhood Park. Proposals are due June 30. Interested artists can apply through this website.