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1. How do I file a missing person or runaway report?

The filing of missing persons or runaway reports is done on a case-by-case basis. Cases vary, so it is best to call the police department at (650) 522-7700 to discuss your situation.
In the event of a real emergency, dial 911 for police assistance.

If you are calling about a report that is already on file, and there is no emergency, dial (650) 522-7650, M-F, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

2. How can I report a drug-related crime?

If you have drug-related information regarding an incident that is in-progress at this moment, and can be viewed and/or dealt with by a uniformed police officer, please call the San Mateo Police dispatcher at (650) 522-7700, and report it as a crime in progress.

If you have information relating to drug-related criminal activity that is not in-progress, or is in-progress but cannot be viewed and/or dealt with by a uniformed police officer, please call the San Mateo Police Department's Narcotics Hotline at (650) 522-7690.

If you reach a recorder and want to be contacted, please leave a call-back number and your name. If you prefer not to be contacted, you may also call the "Secret Witness" number, which is (650) 522-7676 and leave anonymous information.

The San Mateo County Narcotics Task force deals with drug-related problems outside the city limits and jurisdiction of the City of San Mateo. If your information applies to these areas, please call them at (650) 573-3991 to leave a message.

3. How are concealed weapon permits obtained?

The San Mateo Police Department's policy and guidelines regarding the issuance of Concealed Weapons Permits comply with California Penal Code Sections 12050 through 12054 governing the issuance of such permits, and reflect the policy established within San Mateo County regarding the processing of applications. Learn More

4. What resources are there for dispute mediation?

Free mediation services are available to city residents to resolve conflicts. Participation is voluntary, but mediation services offer an alternative to lawsuits or governmental involvement. Mediation uses neutral persons trained to help both sides talk it out and settle their differences, finding solutions acceptable to all participants.
Mediation is available for neighborhood disputes over issues such as noise, pets, property maintenance, parking, children, views and drainage. Mediation can also help resolve tenant- landlord disputes; consumer problems with products, warranties or deadlines; or small claims such as debts, auto accidents or property damage.

Free mediation services are available by contacting the Peninsula Conflict Resolution Center at (650) 513-0330 or the San Mateo County Mediation Program at (650) 373-3490.
Peninsula Conflict Resolution Center

5. How can I contact the detective who is handling a given case?

Major cases and some follow-up cases are handled by Investigative Services.
Some cases which require investigation are assigned to a detective after the initial police report is taken. The officer who takes the initial report can provide you with information as to whether the report will be assigned for investigation and which detectives will handle it.

For general questions regarding detectives or investigations, call (650) 522-7650 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday.

6. Who should I contact when I see graffiti?

Call the Graffiti Hotline at (650) 522-7300.

7. How can I obtain a traffic collision report?

The City of San Mateo does not provide these reports, but you can obtain a copy of your traffic collision report by visiting www.mycollisionreport.com.