Oakland Public Works Crews Ready for Winter Weather

Sandbags and Plastic Sheeting Offered to Residents and Businesses
- Volunteers Needed

In preparation for the start of the rainy season in the Bay Area, the City of Oakland Public Works Agency is taking proactive measures to prepare for the wet weather. During the last couple of months we have been working to remove debris from storm drains and have deployed extra maintenance crews to address other storm-related issues. In addition, there are opportunities available for volunteers to assist during the rainy season. The Public Works Agency is proud to be of service to the Oakland community.

Beginning October 16, 2007, a maximum of 20 sandbags and 25 feet of plastic sheeting (per household/business) will be available for pickup at the City’s Municipal Service Center and Maintenance Satellite Office. Proof of Oakland residency is required to obtain the sandbags and sheeting. Oakland Fire Stations will join in storm preparations for our community by distributing sandbags to Oakland residents. A limit of 5 sandbags (per household) will be available for pickup at the fire stations.

During the winter months, when inclement weather is forecasted, the Public Works Agency extends its service hours to make sandbags and plastic sheeting available to residents and businesses to help them protect their properties from storm-related damage.

How Residents Can Help

• Check and clean private drainage systems.
• Do not place leaves, debris or lawn clippings near storm drains.
• Place leaves and green trimmings in your Green Cart for weekly recycling pickup.
• Keep natural waterways such as creeks and ditches free from obstructions.
• Report flooding problems to the Public Works Call Center at (510) 615-5566.
• Maintain-A-Drain in your neighborhood or commercial district.

Volunteer Opportunities

The Public Works Agency is also renewing its call for volunteers to join its Maintain-A-Drain Campaign.  Residents and merchants in Oakland can help prevent flooding by keeping a storm drain in their neighborhood free of debris. In exchange, the City will give volunteers a free set of rain gear, a rake and debris bags. By keeping storm drains clean, volunteers can help the City focus storm-response activities on the most critical storm-related problems. To join the Maintain-A-Drain Campaign, volunteers should call (510) 238-7630.

When inclement weather is forecasted, sandbags (up to 20) and plastic sheeting (up to 25 feet) can be picked up at the following locations and times:

When inclement weather is forecasted, sandbags (up to 5) can be picked up at the following locations and times:

In an emergency or to report storm damage, Oakland residents should call the Public Works Call Center at (510) 615-5566.