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"The mission of the Community Beautification Awards Program is to encourage citizen involvement in keeping San Jose an attractive city in which to live."
Goal of the Awards

The Community Beautification Awards Program was established in 1994 to recognize those residents of San Jose, such as yourself, who have not only shown an interest in how San Jose looks, but have done something about it by improving the outside of their property as seen from the street.

Who May Enter?

Any renter or owner of a residential or commercial property within the city limits of San Jose can nominate themselves. If you would like to submit an application for someone other than yourself, please enter under the "Nominate Your Neighbor" category. Any person from a San Jose neighborhood group can enter a community project under the "Neighborhood Improvement" category.

Is There a Fee?

No.

What are the Awards?

A City of San Jose plaque will be given to the top three winners in each of the six categories, described on the next page. This beautiful plaque can be displayed on the front of residence or business. All nominees will receive a certificate in appreciation for the efforts they have made.

What is the Schedule?

Applications must be postmarked no later than the date that is indicated at the top of the enclosed application forms.

BadHouse  GoodHouse

How Do I Apply?

Use the appropriate application form for the category in which you would like to enter. Please enter in one category only.

What are the Award Categories?

  1. Landscape Improvement
    This category focuses on the front yard and landscape improvements. The judging will emphasize year-round visual appeal and environmental considerations.
  2. Structural Improvement
    This category focuses on exterior structural changes.  Judging will emphasize the overall visual effect of the structural changes.
  3. Historic Structure Improvement
     Homes should be at least 50 years old or of historic significance.  Judging will emphasize the extent of restoration or renovation and retention of the original architectural character/style of the front exterior of the home.
  4. Commercial Improvement
    This special category includes all businesses, including apartment complexes and income properties, that have improved the overall look of the front of the property and have positively impacted the adjacent community.
  5. Neighborhood Improvement
    This category recognizes group neighborhood improvement projects done in San José neighborhoods.  The judging will emphasize  the overall look of the area, the impact on the area and maintenance projections for the project.
  6. Nominate Your Neighbor
    Nominate any home or business in San José for its remodeling improvements.  The judging will emphasize the overall look of the front exterior. 

House ColorWhat Criteria Will Be Used

Overall, we will be looking at the outside appearance of the structure and its landscaping as seen from the street. The general criteria are:

  • Overall Look
    What unique ideas or innovations were used? Have you taken any measures to help conserve the environment, such as special irrigation or utilization of drought tolerant or native plants?
  • Obstacles Overcome
    What obstacles did you overcome in making the improvements?
  • Doing the Work
    Describe any seasonal changes made during the year.
  • Maintenance
    Have you solved any on-going maintenance or security problems?
  • Inspiration to Others
    What comments have you received from neighbors about the improvements? How has this property been inspiring to you or your neighborhood?
  • Continuing Improvement
    Are improvements continually being made?

Who Will Do the Judging?

The judging committee is typically comprised of representatives from the following groups:

  • San Jose City Council
  • Historical Landmarks Commission
  • Victorian Preservation Association
  • City of San Jose Neighborhood Association
  • Project Crackdown
  • San Jose Mercury News
  • City of San Jose Business Association
  • San Jose Beautiful Steering Committee

 


PRNS logo
City of San Jose Department of Parks,
Recreation and Neighborhood Services
OFFICE of SAN JOSE BEAUTIFUL
4 North Second Street, Suite 600
San Jose | CA 95113
(408) 277-5208 tel | (408) 277-3155 fax
E-email