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(+1) 916 514 0370Security Guard Company in Berkeley, CA
In today's world, security is an essential component of life. For individuals, that could mean having a firearm available and a plan of action in place if a break-in or other criminal act occurs. Many business owners in California, however, need more than a simple plan. They need a reliable, proven security guard company in Berkeley, CA, that can provide them with the armed or unarmed security needed to stay safe and keep criminals at bay. After all, the reality of running a successful business in California is that nefarious actors will do everything in their power to take what's yours. California's overall violent crime rate increased by 1.7%, from 495 crimes per 100,000 residents in 2022 to 503 in 2023. While property crime fell marginally, violent crimes are up in just about every county of The Golden State.
The next minute, they're up at gunpoint and robbed outside of their storefront. At best, the individual loses money. At worst, they get injured or even die. We've all seen similar on the news. It makes sense, then, that more and more business owners and executives are relying on security guards to protect dispensaries, sporting events, concerts, corporate events, and more.
The peace of mind that comes from having security services is both immediate and enduring. There's simply no substitute for the physical and emotional reassurance of knowing that you are protected-whether it's yourself, your family, your valuables, or your business and its employees. Security officers play a crucial role in providing this sense of safety with their specialized skills, especially in tense or threatening situations. If you're looking for an industry-leading security guard company, look no further than Capital security guard.
- The Capital Security guard Difference
- Top 3 Reasons Why Customer Service is So Important for Security
- Security Guards for Events in Berkeley, CA
- Security Guards for Cannabis Companies in Berkeley, CA
- How Do Armed and Unarmed Security Guards Help Protect Your Cannabis Investment?
- How Do You Know if You Need Security Guards for Your Dispensary?
- Reliable Security Guard Protection is a Phone Call Away
- Security Guard Patrol is Just a Phone Call Away
6+ Years of Experiences2018 - 2024
The Capital Security guard Difference
Capital Security guard is the top choice for security services in California, and for good reason. We share your commitment to keeping our community safe. As your go-to security guard company, we offer foolproof executive protection, impenetrable capital security services, and the peace of mind that you and your business will remain safe.
Armed Security
Unarmed Security
Security Guards for Dispensaries in Berkeley, CA
Security Guards for Events
Security Guards for Concerts
Security Guards for Sporting Events
Security Guards for Executives
Security Guards for Corporate Events
Security Guards for Hospitals
After-Hours Patrols and Alarm Response
Much More
Need to train new security guards or help implement an evacuation plan for your home or business? We can help with that too. Give our office a call today to learn more about the Capital Security guard difference.
Security Guards You Can Rely On
As one of the most trusted security guard companies in California, you can rest easy knowing we've got your back when you need us most. Like Sather Gate in San Francisco, we stand tall for our clients and make it a point to provide them with the most dependable, full-service security guard solutions available.
Our commercial and residential clients refer their friends and business connections to our security agency because they know we always:
Remain Calm and Stay in Control
Our security guards give you the confidence needed to run your business safely and safeguard your assets.
Have Eyes Everywhere
Nothing gets past our armed and unarmed security guards in California. Period.
Prioritize Privacy
When you're running a successful business or are trying to live in peace, privacy is paramount. That's why we make every effort to help you feel secure, safe, and protected while keeping your privacy top-of-mind.
Use Innovative Security Strategies
Our impenetrable security and strategy solutions don't just deter criminals and bad-faith actors - they prevent crime from happening in the first place.
Provide Dependable Protection
We know you want to protect yourself, your business, and your quality of life. We're here to help ensure that happens 24/7, 365 days a year.
Flexible & Responsive
We believe customer service and ongoing communication are key aspects of providing you with a safe environment. In fact, our security guards make it a point to work with your environment, whether it's residential, commercial, industrial, or something in the entertainment industry. That way, you can do what you need to do to keep being successful while we provide you with full security coverage.
Need to train new security guards or help implement an evacuation plan for your home or business? We can help with that too. Give our office a call today to learn more about the Capital Security guard difference.
Highly Trained Professionals
Capital Security guard only employs the best of the best when it comes to unarmed and armed security. In fact, each security guard we hire is trained specifically to remain vigilant and to keep you safe. Every team member at our security guard company in citname, CA, is carefully screened. We hire only the most conscientious and professional candidates before sending them through our vigorous training program.
Our unique security training program includes:
- Use of Force Training
- Firearms Training
- Oral Communication Skills
- Protocol and Strategies for Reporting Suspicious Activity or Persons
Top 3 Reasons Why Customer Service is So Important for Security
One of the reasons why so many clients choose Capital Security guard over other security guard companies in Berkeley, CA, is that we put a strong emphasis on customer service. We provide exceptional service not only from our office when clients call but also in the field when our security guards are at work. Here are three ways that our security guards use customer service to create safer environments.
1. Clear Communication
An important aspect of excellent customer service involves cultivating robust communication skills. Security personnel frequently engage with both employees and co-workers. A competent security guard needs to communicate effectively with individuals across various organizational levels, ranging from entry-level staff to the company's president or owner.
2. Staying Calm in Contentious Situations
Customer service skills are essential for effectively resolving conflicts, particularly for security guards who often face high-pressure situations. Their ability to remain calm and communicate clearly can significantly influence the outcome of these encounters. That's why our security guard company in Berkeley, CA instructs security guards to implement de-escalation techniques. This approach equips them to handle disputes in a manner that reduces tension and fosters cooperation. By doing so, we ensure that potentially challenging situations are addressed swiftly and amicably.
3. Positive Public Impressions
When security guards excel in customer service, they become true ambassadors for the companies they represent. At Capital Security guard, our security guards recognize that they play an important role in shaping how the public views our clients' businesses and properties. Whether it's guiding a visitor to their destination or calmly managing a challenging situation, delivering excellent customer service makes clients and visitors feel both welcomed and valued.
Now that you know more about our security guard company and what sets us apart from others in our field, you're probably anxious to learn about our areas of focus. While we offer a wide range of services, from crowd control and alarm response to access control and perimeter security, some of our most popular services are included below.
Security Guards for Events in Berkeley, CA
When you're looking for the best steak in town, you don't go by your local fast-food joint and expect to get anything great. Instead, you go to Chez Panisse in Berkeley, CA. When you're looking for a large event to attend, you don't go to a small city in California - you go to LA.
From Coachella to the Academy Awards, Los Angeles and the greater California have more high-profile events than there are palm trees. If you're a guest, your goal is to enjoy the event without worrying about potential threats. On the other hand, if you're an organizer, your priority is to ensure that the event is safeguarded from nefarious individuals and criminal activities. And that, in a nutshell, encapsulates why event organizers hire professional security guard companies like Capital Security guard. Our security guards are specially trained to handle large crowds at events and know precisely how to manage situations to prevent panic from breaking out.
Below are a few of the basic measures that we take at Capital Security guard for event security:
- Each security guard for your event is well trained in how to enforce the appropriate safety and security measures in place.
- All staff are expertly trained to provide medical assistance or contact the appropriate third party.
- All security personnel understand your venue's layout, emergency exit locations, and possible wrong points of entry.
To enhance your event security, we'll first assess the level of security required for your event. Striking the right balance is crucial; while excessive security can make guests feel uneasy, insufficient measures may leave them vulnerable.
- Security Guards for Sporting Events
- Security Guards for Concerts
- Security Guards for Corporate Events
- Security Guards for Business Conferences
- Security Guards for Enthusiast Events Like Comic Con
- More
If you're unsure what type of security you might need for your event, try reaching out to organizations that have hosted similar events to gain insight from their experiences. You can also consult with an event security company like Capital Security guard, which can provide you with a full picture of what to expect. We collaborate with all event performers who hire us. That way, we can identify your security needs and provide you with armed or unarmed guards to keep your event safe.
Security Guards for Cannabis Companies in Berkeley, CA
Running a cannabis dispensary can be both hugely rewarding and sketchy. While there's a huge demand for legally grown cannabis, those who own and operate the stores that sell the plant are often at risk. We're talking vandalism, theft, assault, and other crimes that threaten both customers and employees.
While investing in high-quality security systems can help address these issues, they don't always reduce the likelihood of repeat offenses. This brings us to an important question: Should you hire a security guard for your cannabis dispensary? The short answer is yes. That's true even if you're working there on a daily basis. Why? The truth is that it's very difficult to prevent theft entirely.
Failure to take security measures in your dispensary seriously can lead to significant losses, which can happen quickly. With the increase in daytime crime, potential thieves can easily enter your property and steal products - and that's just the start.
How Do Armed and Unarmed Security Guards Help Protect Your Cannabis Investment?
Well-trained security guards play a pivotal role in preventing the theft of money and property at your dispensary. They help reduce vandalism and protect against assaults. A guard is skilled in spotting suspicious behavior and addressing potential issues before they escalate. It's important to note that criminals are often deterred by the presence of armed security personnel. Plus, because guards collaborate with local law enforcement, it becomes easier to resolve any crimes that may occur at your cannabis store.
Unlike security cameras, guards provide a more effective visual deterrent. They ensure that everyone adheres to the established rules and regulations. Any misconduct by employees or customers can have serious repercussions for your cannabis dispensary. A trained guard not only prevents unwanted behavior but can also take disciplinary measures or legal action if required.
How Do You Know if You Need Security Guards for Your Dispensary?
If you own a cannabis shop in California, chances are you've worked long hours and invested a lot of money into making it successful. But that success can come at a steep price, especially when criminals see what you're selling. Sure, you've installed locks on your doors and taken basic steps to prevent crime. But modern-day criminals are savvy and know how to get around standard types of security. That's where security guards for cannabis growers in Berkeley, CA, start to make a lot of sense.
Keep the following red flags in mind. If your dispensary is growing, it could be time to hire security.
- Quick Growth or Increase in Income
- High Foot Traffic
- Lots of Public Exposure and Media Attention
- Location of Your Cannabis Company
- Physical Accessibility
Reliable Security Guard Protection is a Phone Call Away
If you're wondering whether a security guard is appropriate for your needs, call our office today. We'll take as much time as needed to learn about your challenges, goals, and overall needs. Once we know more about your situation, we can offer viable security guard for consideration.
When you're a high-level executive or celebrity, living a normal life can be hard. It's not like you can wake up and decide to go to Codornices Park in San Francisco without people noticing - and that's incredibly frustrating. Luckily, you can still do normal things that average people do - but you may have to take a few additional steps to make sure you and your family are safe.
At Capital Security guard, we recognize that each executive client has needs as unique as the threats they encounter. That's why we focus on delivering an elite level of personalized executive protection services for high-profile individuals. Our approach ensures top-notch protection that seamlessly integrates into your lifestyle while respecting your security and privacy preferences.
Whether you require round-the-clock security or need bodyguard services for a specific event, our highly-trained team of executive security professionals is equipped with the expertise and skills necessary to exceed your expectations. This commitment provides you with peace of mind, allowing you to feel secure while living life on your own terms.
Some of the top benefits of executive security from Capital Security guard include:
- Having a security team for a CEO or other executive can free up time and reduce the amount of energy spent on security-related incidents.
- Executive security from a firm like Capital Security guard can protect organizations and individuals from hazards like cyber threats, physical threats, and reputational threats.
- Bringing in a team of executive security can improve a company's reputation and send a signal to investors, partners, and clients that the company is trustworthy.
- Executive security guards help reduce the chances of being physically assaulted in public.
- Executive security can also help you address ongoing personal security and privacy issues.
Security Guard Patrol is Just a Phone Call Away
If you've been searching endlessly for "security guards for hire near me in Berkeley, CA," all that time and effort has paid off. With decades of combined experience, Capital Security guard has assembled a team of expert security guards dedicated to delivering solutions that surpass industry benchmarks. Whether you need security guards for a local event or protection for a high-profile individual, our security guard company is equipped to provide you with trustworthy protection in The Golden State and beyond. Contact our headquarters today to learn more about how our armed and unarmed guards can meet your goals and adapt visibility to fit your unique environment.
What clients say about Us!
unarmed security for J C
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cannabis security for CASA de ESPAÑOL
live video monitoring for OSHIMA
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cannabis compliance for Charlie Marano
Armed security for Jehan Zohrab
unarmed security for Michael Mui
patrol services for Mr. Security Camera
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Latest News in Berkeley, CA
Bay Area's Oldest Independent Bookstore Company Files For Bankrupcy
Berkeley, CA Patchhttps://patch.com/california/berkeley/bay-areas-oldest-independent-bookstore-company-files-bankrupcy
The 174-year-old company will close its Berkeley store but plans to keep other locations open as it reorganizes under Chapter 11 bankrupcy.Bay City News, News PartnerBERKELEY, CA — The oldest independent bookstore company in the Bay Area said Tuesday it has filed for bankruptcy.Books Inc. announced it filed a voluntary petition for reorganization under Chapter 11 in U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern Distric...
The 174-year-old company will close its Berkeley store but plans to keep other locations open as it reorganizes under Chapter 11 bankrupcy.
Bay City News, News Partner
BERKELEY, CA — The oldest independent bookstore company in the Bay Area said Tuesday it has filed for bankruptcy.
Books Inc. announced it filed a voluntary petition for reorganization under Chapter 11 in U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of California.
The privately held, 174-year-old company said in a statement it will use the protections of Chapter 11 reorganization "to continue operating while it establishes a sustainably solid financial footing in response to annual revenue losses."
Books Inc. said the reorganization is necessary because of "steadily rising operating costs and dramatically changing consumer buying habits" exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The new strategy involves closing the Berkeley store on Feb. 9 and moving some staff to positions at the company's remaining 10 locations across the East Bay, the Peninsula and San Francisco and San Francisco International Airport locations.
Find out what's happening in Berkeleyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
"Books Inc. is not going away," the company's CEO Andy Perham said in the statement. "Our board, investors, senior managers and key partners agree that reorganizing with the tools afforded us by Chapter 11 is the fastest path toward putting our company on a smaller, financially stronger platform from which we can continue our long legacy of serving California readers."
Perham said, "The experience and dedication of our booksellers and management is the foundation on which we feel confident in our ability to transition Books Inc. to its next successful era."
The company hopes loyal customers will help the company bounce back from bankruptcy.
"Support from Books Inc.'s customers, communities and business partners has been incredible," Perham said. "The best thing that people can do to help Books Inc. quickly get through this challenging time is to come in the store and buy books, or order from us online. Our booksellers will continue to do their very best to provide readers with a vibrant, enriching and fun experience."
Except for the Berkeley store, all other Books Inc. locations will remain operational, pending court approval of a proposed reorganization plan by the company that seeks to consolidate its number of physical retail stores.
The www.booksInc.net website will continue to operate and fulfill orders as normal. The company's frequent reader program and related benefits will continue without interruption. Customers with gift cards purchased at the Berkeley store will be able to use them at any of the company's other stores or online.
Copyright © 2025 Bay City News, Inc. All rights reserved. Republication, rebroadcast or redistribution without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. Bay City News is a 24/7 news service covering the greater Bay Area.
The Jazzschool creates a musical community in Berkeley
Janice Leehttps://www.kalw.org/kalw-music/2025-01-17/the-jazzschool-creates-a-musical-community-in-berkeley
Jazz can often be a catch-all term for music with a definition and sound as unique to an individual as the music genre itself. It can also serve as an entry point to music genres that precede jazz’s more known late 19th/early 20th century beginnings (including the blues, ragtime, and classical), those it later influenced (Rock, Pop, R&B, Funk, Fusion and Hip-hop), and genres still be created. Jazz can also mean to take chances, to improvise, to play and sing what one feels. The Jazzschool at California Jazz Conservatory in Berkeley...
Jazz can often be a catch-all term for music with a definition and sound as unique to an individual as the music genre itself. It can also serve as an entry point to music genres that precede jazz’s more known late 19th/early 20th century beginnings (including the blues, ragtime, and classical), those it later influenced (Rock, Pop, R&B, Funk, Fusion and Hip-hop), and genres still be created. Jazz can also mean to take chances, to improvise, to play and sing what one feels. The Jazzschool at California Jazz Conservatory in Berkeley brings it together for people of all ages.
The Jazzschool is a music education treasure welcoming music students of across various ages, interests, and abilities. It was originally established by founder Susan Muscarella in 1997. Muscarella started the Jazzschool in a space above the aptly-named La Note (a French restaurant which is still open). In 2002, the school moved to 2087 Addison St. where it continues today.
With the aim to build community by bringing people together through music, the Jazzschool has created and maintained a place to welcome musicians at every stage of their artistry. There are programs for everyone – from those who are beginner players who want to study and learn more, to those who are proficient on their instruments and wish to explore other musical genres, to those who wish to return to playing after a hiatus. Musicians often join an ensemble simply to play and meet others with a like-minded spirit and love of music.
“People get involved in music for all different reasons. Some of it for the love [of it] and some want to pursue professionally. We have those opportunities for people in both those categories,” says Jazzschool Director Rob Ewing, who oversees all the programs. “It’s interesting to learn what people do other than play music. They’re coming in to take classes, it’s all over the map and fascinating. They’re not here to get credentials. Oftentimes they’re accomplished in their fields, and just love the music. It’s fun to connect people in that way.”
Ensembles and workshops are generally scheduled evenings and weekends, with some available during the day as scheduling permits. Workshops are also offered as one-offs, taught by visiting artists, with some covering the business side of a career in music. The Jazzschool also hosts ongoing concerts with local and visiting artists and groups.
The Jazzschool was also one of the first places to offer a Young Musicians Program to supplement any existing public and private school music programs. Young Musicians Program Director Erik Jekabson mentions that the students are at a wide variety of levels. For those who are super advanced, there are high level groups. There are also groups for those who enjoy playing currently, and are exploring pursuing music in college and beyond as a career. He adds “The latest is that we’re trying to get out that we have financial aid and scholarship. If finances are an issue, they shouldn’t be. We want to get as many deserving young folks into the program as possible.”
Composer and Jazzschool alumnus Matt Wong expresses: “What the Jazzschool does really well is focus on and draw from the Bay Area music scene for faculty and instructors who more accurately reflect the diversity of the scene. Rob (Ewing) also gives the teachers room to teach.”
And for those music fans who are not musicians or vocalists (at any level or any genre), and are maybe just Jazz-curious, there’s a place for you at The Jazzschool too. At the end of every quarter, each ensemble plays a set for everyone to attend and enjoy. These performances are also a great opportunity to check out the place and hear music curated and played by members of the community. The performances are free and fun. The atmosphere is casual, friendly, welcoming, and alive with music.
Check out The Jazzschool Winter Course Catalog here.
A quick snapshot of current offerings includes: Jazz/Brazilian and Blues/Funk/Groove/World Ensembles (all levels, all sizes, all Jazz genres)
Piano/keyboards, guitar, drums/percussion (beginners to improv/harmony to jazz/blues/soul, to rhythm/groove and comping)
Songwriting
Vocals – Ensembles, performance, Jazz/Blues, vocal technique
Some ensembles are also artist-specific, with exploration and performance of the music of Steely Dan, Wayne Shorter, Stanley Clark, Jeff Beck.
Founder Susan Muscarella also teaches two sections of a weekly jazz ensemble.
Jazzschool Workshops: https://jazzschool.cjc.edu/workshops/
The Jazzschool2087 Addison Way Berkeley CA 94704(510)845-5373https://jazzschool.cjc.edu/
Best Internet Providers in Berkeley, California
Joe Supanhttps://www.cnet.com/home/internet/best-internet-providers-in-berkeley-ca/
What is the best internet provider in Berkeley?CNET recommends Sonic Telecom as the top internet provider in Berkeley, offering symmetrical gigabit speeds (up to 1,000Mbps) for just $50 a month -- a rare deal for such high performance. While equipment isn’t included and the price increases by $10 after the first year, Sonic remains the best overall choice.For those seeking even faster speeds, ...
What is the best internet provider in Berkeley?
CNET recommends Sonic Telecom as the top internet provider in Berkeley, offering symmetrical gigabit speeds (up to 1,000Mbps) for just $50 a month -- a rare deal for such high performance. While equipment isn’t included and the price increases by $10 after the first year, Sonic remains the best overall choice.
For those seeking even faster speeds, AT&T Fiber is the go-to option in Berkeley, with plans offering symmetrical speeds of up to 5,000Mbps. Unlike Sonic, AT&T includes equipment in its base price and offers five flexible plans starting at $55 per month.
If affordability is your priority, Xfinity delivers the cheapest starting plan at $20 per month for 150Mbps, though prices rise after the first year or two. For a more predictable bill, T-Mobile and Verizon 5G Home Internet offer price-lock guarantees on all their plans.
Best internet in Berkeley, California
Source: CNET analysis of provider data.
Source: CNET analysis of provider data.
How to find internet deals and promotions in Berkeley
The best internet deals and the top promotions in Berkeley depend on the discounts available during that period. Most deals are short-lived, but we look frequently for the latest offers.
Berkeley internet providers, such as Verizon, may offer lower introductory pricing or streaming add-ons for a limited time. Many providers, including Sonic Telecom, AT&T Fiber and T-Mobile Home Internet, run the same standard pricing year-round.
For a more extensive list of promos, check out our guide on the best internet deals.
Source: CNET analysis of provider data.
What’s a good internet speed?
Most internet connection plans can now handle basic productivity and communication tasks. If you're looking for an internet plan that can accommodate videoconferencing, streaming video or gaming, you'll have a better experience with a more robust connection. Here's an overview of the recommended minimum download speeds for various applications, according to the Federal Communications Commission. Note that these are only guidelines and that internet speed, service and performance vary by connection type, provider and address.
For more information, refer to our guide on how much internet speed you really need.
How CNET chose the best internet providers in Berkeley
Internet service providers are numerous and regional. Unlike the latest smartphone, laptop, router or kitchen tool, it’s impractical to personally test every ISP in a given city. What’s our approach? We start by researching the pricing, availability and speed information, drawing on our own historical ISP data, the provider sites and mapping information from the Federal Communications Commission at FCC.gov.
It doesn’t end there. We go to the FCC’s website to check our data and ensure we consider every ISP that provides service in an area. We also input local addresses on provider websites to find specific options for residents. We look at sources, including the American Customer Satisfaction Index and J.D. Power, to evaluate how happy customers are with an ISP’s service. ISP plans and prices are subject to frequent changes; all information provided is accurate as of publication.
Once we have this localized information, we ask three main questions:
The answer to those questions is often layered and complex, but the providers who come closest to “yes” on all three are the ones we recommend. When selecting the cheapest internet service, we look for the plans with the lowest monthly fee, although we also factor in things like price increases, equipment fees and contracts. Choosing the fastest internet service is relatively straightforward. We look at advertised upload and download speeds and consider real-world speed data from sources like Ookla and FCC reports. (Ookla is owned by the same parent company as CNET, Ziff Davis.)
To explore our process in more depth, visit our how we test ISPs page.
Internet providers in Berkeley FAQs
5 Hiking Trails In Berkeley To Kickstart Your 2025 Resolutions
Berkeley, CA Patchhttps://patch.com/california/berkeley/5-hiking-trails-berkeley-kickstart-your-2025-resolutions
BERKELEY, CA — With the holidays behind us, there’s no better way to kick off 2025 than by hitting the dusty trails to fulfill New Year’s resolutions of staying active and connecting with nature.Recent studies have highlighted the numerous health benefits associated with lacing up your hiking boots for an adventure.Hiking regularly can enhance cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles and bones and improve balance. A 2023 study published in ...
BERKELEY, CA — With the holidays behind us, there’s no better way to kick off 2025 than by hitting the dusty trails to fulfill New Year’s resolutions of staying active and connecting with nature.
Recent studies have highlighted the numerous health benefits associated with lacing up your hiking boots for an adventure.
Hiking regularly can enhance cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles and bones and improve balance. A 2023 study published in BMC Public Health found that participants in a winter hiking intervention increased their physical activity levels, which led to better sleep and less stress.
But it isn't all about physical health. Spending time in nature — especially while hiking — has also been linked to better mental health. According to 2024 research from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, exposure to green spaces can boost mood, reduce anxiety and lower the risk of depression.
Heather Eliassen, a professor of nutrition and epidemiology at Harvard, says even those who live in cities and work indoors can and should try to reap the health benefits of nature.
Find out what's happening in Berkeleyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
“If there are some green spaces a short or medium distance from home, try walking or biking to the green space to get the benefits of exercise while getting [there],” she said. “Or, find green space you could incorporate into your commute to or from school or work.”
AllTrails, a website and app that was "founded on the idea that we’re all made better by spending time in nature," makes it easy to find nature areas and hiking trails of varying levels near you.
While searching, the website allows users to set the distance, difficulty level, length, suitability and more.
In Berkeley and around Alameda County, the website lists dozens of scenic trails — from steep mountainous terrain that can take hours to ascend to quick and "easy" trails along babbling brooks and wildflowers. Here are five trails in and around Berkeley to explore:
Search for more hiking trails near you.
Amnesty Program Opens For Unpermitted ADUs In Berkeley
Alameda, CA Patchhttps://patch.com/california/alameda/amnesty-program-opens-unpermitted-adus-berkeley
Getting units up to housing code will improve the likelihood that insurance will cover damages.Bay City News, News Partner|Updated Thu, Jan 2, 2025 at 10:17 am PTBERKELEY, CA — If you are a Berkeley homeowner with questions about that backyard shed you rent to college kids, now is the time to legalize it without penalty fees. Beginning this year, and running through Dec. 31, 2028, the city of Berkeley has opene...
Getting units up to housing code will improve the likelihood that insurance will cover damages.
Bay City News, News Partner
|Updated Thu, Jan 2, 2025 at 10:17 am PT
BERKELEY, CA — If you are a Berkeley homeowner with questions about that backyard shed you rent to college kids, now is the time to legalize it without penalty fees. Beginning this year, and running through Dec. 31, 2028, the city of Berkeley has opened an amnesty program to improve housing safety.
Unpermitted accessory dwelling units, including converted garages or in-law units, can now go through a process to meet housing code with no penalty fees. The unit must be constructed or converted before Jan. 1, 2020.
Getting that unit up to housing code will improve the likelihood that insurance will cover damages. It will also avoid the risk of additional penalties if the unit is randomly selected for a proactive inspection under the city's Rental Housing Safety Program. That program requires rental property owners to perform a safety inspection each year and pay an annual fee.
If property owners follow the standard building permit process and submit detailed plans, they can acquire a Certificate of Occupancy. Alternatively, units that meet the Housing Code and minimum fire and life safety standards can get a Housing Certificate of Compliance. This certificate would assure that code enforcement proceedings on the previously undocumented unit will not be triggered, if no additional unpermitted work is performed on the unit.
Before applying, homeowners can request a free anonymous and confidential consultation to determine their eligibility and get some idea what kind of work might be necessary to meet the city's building code.
Find out what's happening in Alamedafor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Owners will be given the opportunity to request a five-year delay of code enforcement penalties for units undergoing legalization or units issued a Certificate of Compliance under the Amnesty Program.
The Amnesty program application fee is $590. Getting an official address will cost $250. Inspection and fix-up costs vary. Learn more on the City of Berkeley's website.
Copyright © 2025 Bay City News, Inc. All rights reserved. Republication, rebroadcast or redistribution without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. Bay City News is a 24/7 news service covering the greater Bay Area.
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