The County Provides an Array of Free Services
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The County provides free services dedicated to promoting healthy, happy and opportunity-filled lives for every individual.
Here is a sampling:
Sandbags: Free sandbags are available for residents throughout the County to help protect homes, neighborhoods, streets, and other properties from flooding and soil erosion. Residents need only to bring their own shovel to the locations listed. It is a good idea to call ahead to confirm sand and bag availability.
Compost: Free composting workshops and discounted compost bins are available to unincorporated area residents.
Mosquitofish: The County’s Vector Control Program offers free mosquitofish at several locations. Mosquitofish are used to help control mosquito breeding populations in green swimming pools, fountains and ponds.
Translations/interpretation services: The County provides free translation and interpretation services in eight threshold languages, including American Sign Language.
Vaccinations and Immunizations: Vaccination and Immunization services are available throughout the County. We recommend calling the site you plan to visit to confirm current hours and availability. COVID-19 vaccines are offered in various Public Health Centers throughout the County. We recommend contacting the site ahead of time to confirm hours and vaccine availability.
Childcare Resource Service: YMCA Childcare Resource Service offers free child care referrals and resources to families in San Diego County so parents and guardians can make informed decisions about child care. Find out about family friendly events, parent caregiver support, community resources and more.
Cool Zones: Cool Zones across the County allow respite for older adults, persons with disabilities, or anyone looking to escape the extreme heat during the summer. The current program season runs from June 1 - October 31. Locate a site nearest you.
Graffiti removal: The County implemented a program to remove graffiti from private property without cost to the owner. A completed Graffiti Removal Authorization Form is required for this service to be provided.
Pre-approved ADU Plans: To see if you live in one of the unincorporated communities where the County’s fee waiver program and pre-approved accessory dwelling unit plans may be used, click here.
Recycling: The County offers free environmental outreach events, recycling events, cleanups, and public meetings around the County. Find one in your community!
Home Gardening: San Diego County has over 300 Master Gardeners that provide home gardening and pest control information free to the public.
Parks and Recreation: Get outside and explore the County’s free parks, discover trails and a host of activities.
Animal spay/neuter Information: The County’s Animal Services provide a reduced fee for spay/neuter programs.
Library: Little Free Libraries are book-sharing boxes at various locations around the County, where anyone can take a book or leave a book for free! Visit sdcl.org/lfl for a host of other free opportunities that the County offers, including audiobooks and laptop checkouts. Library High School offers adults the opportunity to earn an accredited high school diploma and career certificate online for free.