San Diego is known as “America’s Finest City” for a reason. The city is full to the brim with things to do and see. When you are moving to San Diego, it is easy to get wrapped up in all there is to do. While there are many fun and entertaining events and fun to be had, there are some core errands and chores you need to mark off your checklist as well. Here are 10 things you should know when moving to San Diego.
1. Establish & Start Utilities
San Diego makes it easy to start utility service all over the county. Below you will find links to each of the main utility services in the city. Most companies allow you to request service online.
Water & Sewer Service
Gas & Electricity
Internet & Cable Providers
2. Trash Collection Schedule
Trash is collected each week on a schedule that is dependent on your location. You can view the online schedule on the city’s website. Recycling service is also provided every other week in addition to trash service. Some communities offer green trash pickup as well. Collection service has some rules and regulations for what it will and will not dispose of. Holidays also may change the regular schedule, so if you are moving during the holiday season, you may need to call for private pick up or wait a few additional days.
3. Residential Parking Permits
There are some high-traffic areas of San Diego that require residential parking permits to park on the street. It is crucial that you apply for a permit as soon as you are able. Otherwise, you may find yourself having to hike from your car to your new home. Areas that require a residential parking permit, as well as the application can be found on the city’s website.
4. San Diego Parking Rules
Parking in San Diego can be quite confusing. There are several different rules about when you can park where. There are exceptions upon exceptions. The complexity regarding parking, especially downtown has become almost impossible to know just from the posted signs. Check out the rules for parking in San Diego on the city’s website.
5. Register Your Dog
San Diego requires dog registration to ensure that all dogs within the county have been vaccinated for rabies. You have 30 days from moving to San Diego to be in compliance with the law. When you receive the rabies vaccination from a licensed vet, they will give you a certificate and registration tag. For more information, you can check out the County’s website.
6. Basic San Diego Beach Rules
San Diego is beautiful and has many beaches located in the city. To keep things clean and looking great, the city has several rules that aren’t always apparent. First, dogs are not allowed on most beaches until after 5 p.m. or before 9 a.m. The only exceptions are the dog beaches located in Ocean Beach or Coronado. Alcohol is not permitted on the beach. You cannot bring glass bottles on the beach either. Make sure to watch out for rip tides and stay within view of the lifeguard towers and you are sure to have a great time!
7. Try a California Burrito
Of course San Diego is known for its out-of-this-world Baja Mexican food, but nothing quite defines San Diego more than the California Burrito. Anyone who has had Mexican food in California knows about the delicious marinated steak called carne asada. Wrap up steak, guacamole, salsa, and fries in a pillowy soft tortilla and you have yourself a San Diego meal.
8. Learn About the Neighborhoods
San Diego is like having many little cities all within one big city. Each neighborhood has its own unique character, restaurants, and things to do. Downtown and the Gaslamp district is where you will find shows, the night scene, hotels, and a variety of cuisine. Go north of downtown, nestled between Banker’s Hill, Hillcrest, and South Park you will find the famous Balboa Park and San Diego Zoo. Old Town is a nod to the Old West and Mexican heritage, as well as being a residential area. There are several other neighborhoods to discover, like Mission Hills, North Park, University Heights, Normal Heights, and more!
9. Crime Mapping and Alerts
Want to know where the bad areas of town are? Sign up for the crime mapping and alerts on the city’s website. You will get notifications about recent crimes in your area, or set it to give alerts about different neighborhoods.
10. Watch Out for Traffic
When you are moving to San Diego, you should be warned that there are some very high traffic areas during rush hour that you should stay away from. The main highways (I-5, I-805, I-15) are some of the worst. Smaller highways like the I-163 and I-52 are also congested during peak hours. Make sure to research ways to get home using side roads and avoiding highways as much as possible.
If you are moving to San Diego and would like assistance, contact Bekins Moving Solutions today. Call (877) 594-1187 for your free moving estimate today! 
