Novato service requests are for non-emergencies

Novato’s online service request tool is for non-emergency issues, and it routes the request to the city department that handles that type of problem.

That is a useful distinction in Novato because city streets, creeks, hills, open-space edges, and county-adjacent areas can create different kinds of maintenance questions. For a routine report, include the nearest address, cross street, landmark, and a photo if it helps.

The page names examples such as potholes, illegal dumping, and other non-emergency issues. It also says service requests are monitored during regular business hours, so it is not the right channel when something needs quick help.

Novato gives separate emergency contacts for life-threatening emergencies, after-hours Public Works emergencies such as sewer backups, water main breaks, or downed trees blocking a street, power outages, and downed power lines. Use those paths when time matters.