Report Potholes & Get Encroachment Permits - El Cajon

Transportation California 3 Minutes Read ยท published March 01, 2026 Flag of California

El Cajon, California residents and contractors can report potholes and apply for encroachment permits with the City to protect public streets and sidewalks. This guide explains who enforces street repairs, how to submit a pothole complaint, when an encroachment permit is required for work in the public right-of-way, and what next steps to expect from Public Works and Development Services. Use official City reporting for safety hazards and follow permit rules before beginning work that affects curbs, sidewalks, driveways, utilities, or landscaping.

How to report a pothole

To report a pothole or other street hazard to the City of El Cajon Public Works, use the City's official reporting page or contact the Public Works division directly for urgent hazards. The online form lets you submit location details, photos, and contact information for follow-up. Report a concern online[1]

Report immediate hazards by phone if there is risk to traffic or pedestrians.

Encroachment permits - overview

An encroachment permit is required for most work within the public right-of-way including construction, utility connections, driveway or sidewalk alterations, and temporary traffic control. The City's Engineering or Development Services division issues permits and inspects permitted work. See the City encroachment permit information and application guidelines for procedures, submittal requirements, and plan review. Encroachment permit information[2]

Penalties & Enforcement

The City of El Cajon enforces street and right-of-way rules through Public Works and Development Services. Where a property owner or contractor causes damage or performs work without a permit the City may issue orders to stop work, require removal or restoration, and assess fines or administrative charges.

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, or continuing offences - not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, restoration orders, permit revocation, or referral to code enforcement or the City Attorney for civil action.
  • Enforcer and inspection: City of El Cajon Public Works and Engineering divisions handle inspections and complaints; use the report link or contact the department for inspection scheduling.
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes and time limits are handled per City procedures or code; specific appeal deadlines are not specified on the cited page.
  • Defences and discretion: permitted variances, emergency repairs, or reasonable excuse may be considered where documented; specific standards are not specified on the cited page.
If you perform work in the right-of-way without a permit you may be required to restore the site at your expense.

Applications & Forms

The City publishes encroachment permit instructions and submittal checklists on its Engineering pages; specific application form names or fees are not specified on the cited page. Contact the Engineering/Development Services division for the correct application packet, fee schedule, and how to submit plans for review.

Action steps

  • Identify the exact location and capture photos of the pothole or damage.
  • Report urgent hazards by phone to Public Works or use the online report form for non-urgent issues.
  • Before starting any work in the right-of-way, apply for an encroachment permit and submit required plans.
  • If ordered to restore or remove work, comply promptly and keep records of communications and receipts.

FAQ

Who do I contact to report a pothole in El Cajon?
Contact the City of El Cajon Public Works via the online "Report a Concern" page or call the Public Works division for urgent hazards. Report a concern online[1]
When is an encroachment permit required?
An encroachment permit is required for most work in the public right-of-way including driveway, sidewalk, utility, and curb modifications. See the City encroachment permit information. Encroachment permit information[2]
What happens if someone works without a permit?
The City may issue stop-work orders, require restoration, assess fines or administrative charges, and pursue enforcement through code compliance or legal action; exact fines and timelines are not specified on the cited page.

How-To

  1. Document the pothole with photos and note the exact address or cross-streets.
  2. Use the City's online report form or call Public Works to submit the hazard report.
  3. If your project affects the right-of-way, download the encroachment permit packet from the City's Engineering page and submit plans and fees as instructed.
  4. Schedule any required inspections and comply with restoration or permit conditions to avoid enforcement action.

Key Takeaways

  • Report potholes to City Public Works promptly to protect safety and speed repairs.
  • Obtain an encroachment permit before doing work in the public right-of-way to avoid orders and possible fines.

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