Permit application
The
online newsrack permit application (under the Public Works tab) is available. Any newspaper rack installed, placed or maintained within the public right of way is required to have a newsrack permit. Before an application can be approved, applicants must do the following:
- Review the newsrack ordinance
- Submit proof of insurance
- Possess a city business license
- Submit a site plan and/or location photos for each proposed newsrack
- Pay all permit fees online
City staff will review the application and attached documents. A permit shall be issued within 30 days from the date of filing the application. If the application is properly completed and the type of newsrack and location proposed for each newsrack meets the standards set forth in the newsrack ordinance. A single permit shall be issued for each newsrack location applied for by the applicant. Each permit holder shall maintain an active business license throughout the term of the permit.
After a permit has been issued and the City is notified that the newsrack is ready for inspection. City staff will perform an inspection of the newsrack to verify compliance with all standards. If compliance is met, the staff will affix two stickers to the bottom right corner of the newsrack; (1) a permit sticker with unique permit number, (2) a sticker with identifying information containing the address and telephone number of the newsrack owner and of the distributor of the publication(s) contained therein.
If a newsrack permit is denied, the City of Menlo Park will notify the applicant within 30 days from the date of filing the application, explaining the reason(s) for the denial of the permit. The applicant shall have 10 days to appeal the decision. For more information on the appeal process and the appeal requirements, please review the newsrack ordinance.
Please note: Each newsrack in the public right of way is required to have a permit. One permit application will need to be submitted for each newsrack.
Maintenance, display, design and placement standards
Newsracks are required to meet the maintenance, display, design and placement standards set by the ordinance. The intent of these standards is to ensure reasonable measures are taken to maintain newsracks in neat, clean and safe condition. Newsracks no longer meeting these standards are subject to removal at the owner’s expense.
Applicants are required to read and understand all newsrack standards. Please review the
placement standards and
design standards.