We have become aware of an increase in fraudulent emails and malicious websites that closely mimic the County of San Mateo Permit Portal. Some of these phishing attempts include specific permit application details, impersonate County officials, and request payment through wire transfers. These deceptive communications are designed to direct users to unauthorized websites, potentially putting personal and financial information at risk. We encourage all applicants to remain vigilant and verify that they are accessing official County websites before providing any information or making payments.
Here are some important steps you can take to help keep your permit transactions secure:
- Only access the County of San Mateo Permit Portal through links provided on an official smcgov.org website, from an @smcgov.org email address, or from Auto_Sender@Accela.com.
- Before logging in, verify that you are using the official Permit Portal URL: https://aca-prod.accela.com/smcgov/
- If you receive a notification regarding outstanding fees, submit payment by logging directly into the Permit Portal. If you have any questions about a fee request, please call (650) 363-4161 to verify its legitimacy.
- Never respond to emails requesting payment by wire transfer or payment app (Zelle, PayPal, Venmo, etc.). The Planning and Building Department will never ask applicants to submit permit-related payments through wire transfer or consumer payment app. For information about accepted payment methods, please visit our Pay Fees page.
- Keep in mind that permit information is a matter of public record. Even if an email, website, or individual references details about your permit, that information alone does not confirm that the communication is legitimate.
If you have questions or believe you have received a fraudulent email or communication, please contact us at (650) 363-1827 or by email.
For additional information on recognizing and avoiding scams, visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s “Fraud and scams” resource page.