You Are Here : Home / Departments

Departments

Administrative Services

The Department manages the City’s budget, oversees the City’s real estate, investment and purchasing and conducts long-term financial planning.

City Attorney

The City Attorney is appointed by the City Council to provide high-quality legal representation on behalf of the City of Palo Alto.

City Auditor

The City Auditor is appointed by the City Council to lead internal auditing and provide transparency and accountability in government.

The City Clerk is appointed by the City Council to oversee the election process, support City Council meetings, facilitate public records requests and provide information to help the community participate in City’s decision making process.

City Manager

The City Manager is appointed by the City Council to provide strategic and operational direction and guidance to all city departments as staff works together to provide quality services to the Palo Alto community.

Community Services

The Community Services Department engages individuals and families in creating a strong and healthy community through unique facilities such as the Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo, the Palo Alto Art Center, open spaces, and more.

Fire

The Fire Department provides fire, emergency medical services and all
hazard response to the Palo Alto community and Stanford University.

Human Resources

The Human Resources Department recruits, develops, and retains a diverse, well qualified, and professional workforce that reflects the high standards of the community we serve.

Information Technology

The Information Technology Department provides innovative technology solutions that support City departments in delivering quality services to the community.

Library

The Palo Alto Library connects and strengthens our diverse community through knowledge, resources, and opportunities. Staff inspire and nurture innovation, discovery, and delight.

Emergency Services

This Office leads day-to-day planning, intelligence, and coordination for emergencies City-wide and provides public education, engagement, and trainings to enhance community resilience before, during, and after an emergency.

Transportation

The Office of Transportation provides efficient and cost-effective transportation services and planning for all modes of transportation.

Planning & Development

The Planning & Development Services Department provides guidance for land use development, long range planning, housing and environmental policies, processes building permit applications, and responds to code enforcement issues to enhance the safety and attractiveness of the community.

Police

The Palo Alto Police Department is committed to providing exceptional public safety services and taking a leadership role in building community partnerships. We subscribe to core values that include integrity, accountability, trust, teamwork, a positive attitude, and the professional, impartial treatment of all.

Public Works

The Public Works Department operates the municipal Airport, the Regional Water Quality Control Plant, furthers the City’s sustainability and environmental initiatives, maintains roads and streets, and supports the City’s Urban Forestry Program city-wide.

Utilities

The Utilities Department provides safe, reliable, environmentally sustainable, and cost-effective electric, fiber optics, gas, sewer, and water services.

Last updated on January 13, 2021