About the Guide

How and When to Use the Guide

This guide is intended to help City departments reporting to the Mayor engage the public in effective and inclusive ways. It offers practical guidance on how the City can inform the public and gather public input throughout the course of City projects. See an overview of the content within this guide.

The Guide does not necessarily apply to political or independent offices, like City Council offices, that have their own public engagement representatives who help address community issues and seek input on Councilmember priorities.

When to use the Guide

The Guide should be used for a range of City-led projects, such as:

• Policies and regulations
• Programs providing services
• Plans
• Infrastructure projects

This guide is not required by law and does not affect other applicable federal, state or local requirements. The Guide is not intended to be used in situations that require urgent action to protect public health or safety. 

While this guide was created primarily for City departments, the City of San Diego also hopes it will be a helpful resource for the public. Community members can use it to better understand how to participate in decision-making, and community organizations can use it to develop strategies for engaging the public in their projects.