Landscaping_and_Grounds_Maintenance_Services.pdf

County of San Mateo

Request for Proposals (RFP) for Landscaping and Grounds

Maintenance Services

Public Works - Facilities Services - FMO

RFP No. 2026-RFP-00070

RFP Contact: Roxanne Maquinana rmaquinana@smcgov.org

1. Introduction and Schedule

The County of San Mateo (the “County” or “SMC”) covers most of the San Francisco Peninsula. The region covers 744 mi and is home to nearly 800,000 residents and 20 incorporated cities. The County provides for the health and welfare of all people within its borders and serves as the local government for the unincorporated areas. Innovation thrives here in industries including bioscience, computer software, green technology, hospitality, financial management, health care, education and transportation. The

County prides itself on how that prosperity fosters its commitment to protecting and enhancing the health, safety, welfare and natural resources of the community.

1.1. Summary

The Department of Public Works is seeking a landscaping and grounds maintenance firm to maintain the landscaping throughout the County of San Mateo's owned and operated locations. There are currently over 50 locations that will require services under this solicitation. The work to be performed is comprised of general horticultural maintenance, irrigation maintenance, grounds maintenance, green infrastructure maintenance and other related work. Additional County facilities may require remedial work as identified.

The additional work will have prior written approval by the Department. Requirements will vary by location, season, type of landscaping, site improvements and services requested. Other items and details may be required as directed by the Director of Public Works or the Director's designee.

The target start date and term for the proposed services are subject to negotiation of a final agreement.

The Department intends to bring under contract one firm to provide services as outlined under the Scope of Work section of this RFP for a maximum individual term of five (5) years.

Upon negotiation of a final agreement, the Department intends to include an additional $500,000 in aggregate to the agreement for 'as-needed' work for the duration of the agreement.

Within 90 days of the final executed agreement, the Contractor, as directed by the Department, will be be required to landscape County sites up to quality standards. This includes, but is not limited to, irrigation repair, replacing missing or damaged plants, necessary pruning and other tasks as directed by the

Department. This work shall be considered as additional work.

1.2. Background

The Department manages all County-owned facilities, which includes planning, designing, constructing, operating, and maintaining these properties. This work ensures that the facilities and their surrounding landscapes are safe, accessible, and well-maintained for residents, clients, visitors and employees. The

Department has a budget of approximately $200 million and is staffed with over 300 employees in five divisions: Administrative Services, Airports, Engineering and Resource Protection, Facilities Services, and Road Services, supporting the 46 special districts governed by the Board of Supervisors and administered by the Department.

1.3. Contact Information

Project Contact:

Roxanne Maquinana Program Services Manager Email: rmaquinana@smcgov.org Phone: (650) 363-4100 mailto:rmaquinana@smcgov.org tel:(650)363-4100

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Procurement Contact:

Roxanne Maquinana Program Services Manager Email: rmaquinana@smcgov.org Phone: (650) 363-4100

Department:

Public Works - Facilities Services - FMO

Department Head:

Ann M. Stillman Director

1.4. Timeline

RFP Released October 2, 2025

Pre-Proposal Wall-Through Meeting

(Mandatory)

October 15, 2025, 9:00am

Courtyard in front of 555 County Center County of San Mateo Government Center Redwood City, CA 94063

*RSVP to confirm attendance

Deadline for Questions, Comments and

Contract Exceptions

October 17, 2025, 5:00pm

Question Response Deadline October 20, 2025, 5:00pm

Proposal Due Date and Time October 22, 2025, 2:00pm

Anticipated Contract Award Date November 18, 2025

2. Scope of Work

2.1. GENERAL PROVISIONS

Landscaping and Grounds maintenance of all areas shall include, but will not be limited to: lawn care, tree and shrub care, watering, tree and shrub care, litter control, weed abatement, fertilization, mulching, pruning, control of all plant diseases and pests, irrigation and drainage systems, and all other maintenance required to maintain the areas in a safe, attractive and usable condition. Contractor shall furnish all supervision, labor, materials and equipment necessary for the complete maintenance of all landscaped areas.

mailto:rmaquinana@smcgov.org tel:(650)363-4100

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Plant materials shall be maintained in a healthy and vigorous condition, irrigation and drainage systems kept in good working order, and the general site kept clean, and free of litter, or debris and notify the

Facilities Services Manager of any graffiti.

Contractor shall restore or replace any trees, shrubs, ground covers, lawn, perennials, annuals, or irrigation components damaged by Contractor’s action or lack of action.

Contractor shall not be responsible for the following, unless specifically agreed upon:

o Pruning and pest control of trees above 15 feet in height;

o Replacement of plant material damaged or destroyed by storms, or other causes beyond the contractor’s control;

o Thatching of turf grass areas o Damage caused by rodents and or other pests

Local Offices & Contractor Requirements

Contractor shall maintain a Branch Office within a 50-mile radius of the Department of Public Works

(Department) main office at 555 County Center, Redwood City, CA, with an Administrative

Representative who can be reached during normal working hours and is authorized to discuss matters with the designated contact(s) from the Department.

Personnel

All such personnel must be physically able to do their assigned work. Contractor and its subcontractors, employees, agents and representatives shall conduct themselves in a proper and efficient manner at all times; they shall be fully clothed in suitable uniform attire with a company identifying marker, and shall cause the least possible annoyance to the public (a safety vest with company identification on the back will be considered suitable uniform attire).

A supervisor shall be present when work is being performed and shall be capable of discussing matters pertaining to this service and act for the Contractor in any matter pertaining to this contract.

The Contractor shall furnish the names of all supervisors to the Department prior to the commencement of this contract and advise the Department of any changes.

The Department may require Contractor to remove from the work site any employee(s) deemed careless, incompetent, or otherwise objectionable, whose continued employment on the job is considered to be contrary to the best interests of the County.

Contractor trucks and other vehicles shall have the Contractor’s name and logo identified. All vehicles and equipment shall be in good condition and appearance.

Work Schedules

Contractor shall submit the following schedules via email according to the following instructions:

• Weekly Schedule

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Maintenance services shall be provided on a weekly basis, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. or as allowed by the authority having jurisdiction. A work schedule must be provided to the Department prior to the start of work, and before start of work following each subsequent revision.

At all healthcare sites, the Chief of Plant and Engineering must be informed of the contractor’s arrival.

At County Center sites, the Lead Gardener will be informed of the contractor’s arrival.

• Annual Schedule

Contractor will submit an annual schedule at least thirty (30) days prior to the beginning of the fiscal year (July 1st). All work must be performed according to the agreed upon schedules. This schedule will reflect how the scope of work, specifications and standards will be met on a monthly basis, including any proposed projects or improvements.

Safety Requirements

All work performed shall be performed in such a manner as to provide maximum safety to the public and adhere to the safety standards outlined by CAL/OSHA. The Department reserves the right to issue restraint or cease and desist orders to Contractor when unsafe or harmful acts are observed or reported relative to the performance of the work under this Agreement. The Contractor shall plan and conduct the work in a manner that will safeguard all persons from injury, and the Contractor shall take all precautions required by applicable regulations of the State Department of Industrial Relations. The Contractor's employees shall wear Cal/OSHA approved safety vests at all times during contract work.

Locations/Site Changes

The County reserves the right to add, delete, or change locations under this contract, and the County may do so upon giving written notification to the Contractor. Changes that cause an increase or a decrease in service costs due to changes in maintenance services, area of maintenance, or frequency of services will be adjusted and agreed upon by the County and the Contractor. In the event the contractor fails to perform, sites may be removed from the contract and be included in another contract administered by the County and/or provided for by County forces.

2.2. POLICY AND COMPLIANCE

COUNTY OF SAN MATEO INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT POLICY: The County of San

Mateo (County) seeks to protect the health and safety of its employees and the general public, the environment and water quality, as well as to provide sustainable solutions for pest control through the reduced use of pesticides and herbicides on property including buildings owned or managed by the

County by applying Integrated Pesticide Management (IPM) principles and techniques. The municipal regional stormwater permit requires that the County of San Mateo minimize reliance on pesticides and herbicides that threaten water quality. (Attachment A - IPM Policy)

Contractors implementing pest and weed management controls will use IPM techniques that emphasize non-pesticide and non-herbicide alternatives. Pesticides and herbicides will only be used after careful

Page 6 of 49 Release date of October 2, 2025 consideration of non-chemical alternatives and then the least toxic chemicals that are effective shall be used. Pest control contractors hired by the County are required to implement IPM to control pests. This will be achieved by hiring only IPM-certified pest control contractors or by including contract specifications requiring contractors to implement IPM methods.

Contractors may only use herbicides approved by the Department. (Exhibit D for Approved Pesticides)

Contractors will train all employees on IPM practices before their first working assignment at County of

San Mateo owned or managed sites and annually thereafter. Contractor will provide an employee training record of the previous 12 months (July 1- June 30) of trainings to County Representative by July 15 each year.

Contractors must record pesticide and herbicide use and provide the County with an updated log that is available upon request. This will allow the County to evaluate the contractor’s adherence to IPM. In addition, contract must prepare an annual report summarizing pesticide use and evaluating pest control activities performed that are consistent with the municipal regional stormwater permit’s requirements.

This report must be submitted each year by July 15 to the County Representative detailing the previous 12 months (July 1- June 30) of usage. (Attachment F - Pesticide Reporting Form)

Required elements of the report include:

• Date of Application

• Contractor Name

• Site Name

• Service Address

• Area (acres or units) Treated

• Name of Product Applied

• EPA Registration #

• Total Product Used (fl oz, oz, gal, mg, lbs)

• Target Pest(s)

• IPM Strategies used

RESOLUTION NO. 080805 COMPLIANCE: Contractors are prohibited from participating in incentive programs offered by the manufacturer or vendor of any herbicide and/or pesticide product(s) when providing contracted services for County vegetation management projects on County-owned or -controlled lands. (Attachment B - Resolution No. 080805)

SB 1383 COMPLIANCE: Contractor’s failure to comply with relevant SB 1383 regulations, effective

January 1, 2022, to include reporting requirements in the provision of Recycled-Content Paper Products and/or Printing and Writing Paper and/or Recovered Organic Waste Material is a material breach of this

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Contract. The compost and mulch used at sites identified in this contract must meet the minimum requirements of SB 1383.

Contractor shall be required to submit SB 1383 compliance reports to the County as directed in Admin

Memo B-33. (Attachment C - Admin Memo B-33)

2.3. SITE CONDITIONS

Protection Of Existing Facilities. Conditions and Plant Material

It shall be the responsibility of the Contractor to protect all public and private property during the performance of this contract. Contractor shall inspect the entire site and be familiar with the requirements and growth habits of all existing plant material. Any damages caused by the Contractor’s personnel, equipment or activities will be repaired, replaced and shall become the liability of the Contractor. If, in the opinion of the Department, repair is not possible, the damaged facilities or plant material will be replaced in kind and size. Plant material that is damaged significantly may warrant replacement and is at the discretion the Department. If the damage is not repaired or replaced, the Department may withhold services payment for the repair or replacement of the damages. All costs for such repairs or replacements shall be the liability of the Contractor. Damages to County facilities or plant material due to the

Contractor’s lack of performance in accordance with these specifications are the Contractor’s responsibility.

Existing Utilities

The toll-free number for Underground Service Alert (U.S.A.) is (800) 642-2444. The Contractor is required to call this number two (2) working days (48 hours) in advance of performing excavation work.

The Contractor shall take adequate measures to ensure that their operations do not harm any existing underground facilities not specifically mentioned or shown on the plans. Damage to utilities shall be the liability of the Contractor.

Environmental Conditions

Contractor shall advise the Facilities Manager or Chief of Plant and Engineering (for Health and Hospital facilities) of serious disease or pest problems and any other conditions which may be detrimental to the condition of the landscape.

2.4. EQUIPMENT

Contractor shall provide and maintain all equipment necessary to properly complete the maintenance work. Equipment shall be safe, proper, efficient, and suited to, and for, the job. All cutting blades shall be kept properly sharpened. All equipment must have all required safety devices in place and in operation.

All equipment used must comply with Bay Area Air Quality standards. Contractor must also observe spare the air day requirements and Spare the Air Alerts. During Red Flag Warning Days, the Contractor shall use only non-powered equipment during landscaping and grounds activities.

The County requires the use of battery powered equipment unless otherwise approved by the Department.

2.5. REPORTING/INSPECTIONS

Reporting Requirements

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Contractor shall submit all reports via email to the Department’s designee or Facilities Services Manager.

Reports are due the first working day of the month.

• Fertilizer Usage Report

Contractor will document all fertilizations by completing a Fertilizer Use Report (Attachment D)

• Irrigation Inspection Report

Contractor will complete an Irrigation Inspection Report (Attachment E)

• Pesticide Use Report Form

Contractor will document all pesticide applications the day they occur by completing a Pesticide

Use Report Form (Attachment F)

Meetings/Inspections

The Contractor shall complete weekly site inspections for quality assurance during the contract term. The

Contractor shall provide a report to the Department detailing a list of findings by location and photos of findings. Corrections shall be completed within twenty-four (24) hours of discovery unless otherwise agreed upon by the Department.

Once the corrections are complete, the Contractor will provide updated photos showing the correction and the date that they were completed.

The Department will conduct inspections of the work area to ensure adequacy of maintenance, and the methods of performing the work are in compliance with these specifications. The Contractor may receive a “Landscape Maintenance Inspection Report" (Attachment G) from the Department. This form may indicate any deficiencies in the work performance of the Contractor. The Department may inform the

Contractor by telephone and/or email of urgent deficiencies for immediate attention or repairs.

Corrections shall be completed within twenty-four (24) hours of notification unless otherwise agreed upon by the Department. Once the corrections are complete, the Contractor will provide updated photos showing the corrections and the date that they were completed.

Contractor’s Representative and the Department shall meet to review the Contractor’s schedules and performance, resolve problems, and perform field inspections as required. At the request of the

Department, the owner or other senior contractor representative(s) shall be available to attend these meetings.

There will be no payment for any portion of service not received during a monthly billing period.

The Contractor shall, monthly, inspect all areas covered by an automatic irrigation system for any malfunction. Approximately thirty (30) days prior to the termination of the contract, a comprehensive test of all irrigation systems shall be made by a Department representative. Any repairs deemed the contractor’s responsibility shall be made by the contractor prior to the end of the contract period.

Lack of Inspections by the Department does not:

• relieve the Contractor of their obligations to provide services as required by these specifications;

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• relieve the contractor of their obligations that result in legal actions against the County

• relieve the contractor of responsibility to manage, provide or perform the contracted services in accordance with these special provisions.

Approximately thirty (30) days prior to the termination of the contract, a comprehensive test of all irrigation systems shall be made by the Department. Any repairs deemed the Contractor’s responsibility shall be made by the Contractor prior to the end of the contract period.

If repairs are not made to the Department’s satisfaction, deductions shall be made in the final contract payment to cover the cost of eliminating the discrepancies determined by the Department.

Hazardous Conditions and Vandalism

Contractor shall maintain all sites free of hazards to persons or property. Contractor will remedy any hazardous, unsafe, substandard, vandalized or non-working condition immediately upon discovery or will secure the area and immediately report the situation in writing, no more than two (2) hours of discovery.

The report will include any damages caused by accident, vandalism, theft, or acts of nature.

Hazards include, but are not limited to, damaged or ill-performing irrigation systems, broken tree limbs, erosion, holes, in-ground boxes with missing or broken lids, exposed wire, landscape hazards, standing water, excavations, unsecured materials, visibility disruptions, landscape encroachment onto roadways or pedestrian use areas.

Hazards should be documented in a format that is substantial enough to clearly show the hazard, Contractor’s response and associated cost. Undocumented remedial actions are subject to denial of payment for the service.

All hazards created or caused by the actions of the Contractor shall be reported to the Department within two (2) hours of the hazard being created and immediately mitigated by the Contractor at the

Contractor’s expense.

Once the corrections are complete, the Contractor will provide updated photos showing the correction and the date that they were completed.

Soil Testing

Contractor shall conduct soil testing of each landscaping site within one (1) month of start of contract to quantify the nutrient content and soil texture of each site and annually thereafter. These results will be used to determine the necessity of fertilizer, compost, or amendment application.

2.6. GROUNDS MAINTENANCE TASKS

Paved, Decomposed, Granite, Rock Blanket Areas, Non-Landscaped Areas

Litter Removal

Sidewalks, curbs, gutters, pavers, paved areas, decomposed granite (dg) and rock blanket areas adjacent or within the site shall be kept free of all litter, i.e. paper, rubbish and debris, one (1) time per week during the entire contract term. No debris or cuttings shall be blown onto roadways or walkways. All litter removed shall be disposed of at the Contractor's expense.

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Decomposed granite areas shall be raked with a metal leaf rake one (1) time per month during the entire contract term.

All mulch, bark, decomposed granite, and all hardscape materials shall be kept within the planter area, and clean from walks and gutters.

Weed Control

Sidewalks, curbs, gutters, pavers, paved areas, decomposed granite (dg), bare areas and rock blanket areas adjacent or within the site shall be kept free of weeds at all times during the entire term of the contract.

Contractors implementing pest and weed management controls will use Integrated Pest

Management (IPM) techniques that emphasize non-pesticide and non-herbicide alternatives.

Pesticides and herbicides will only be used after careful consideration of non-chemical alternatives and then the least toxic chemicals that are effective shall be used.

Damage caused by herbicide and pesticide use that is not the intended target shall be the liability of the contractor and shall be repaired at contractor’s cost.

Weeds that reach a height of four (4) inches or more shall be manually removed or hand pulled.

Chemical spraying shall not be permitted for weeds exceeding four (4) inches in height. All weed debris shall be removed from the area.

Chemical applications shall be performed in accordance with local, municipal, County, State and

Federal regulations. Chemical applications shall be performed in accordance with Manufacturer’s

Label.

It is recommended that the contractor have a Pest Control Advisor / Integrated Pest Management

Consultant prepare a fertilizer, pesticide and weed control program.

Drainage Systems:

Good drainage is essential for healthy and vigorous plant growth, and systems must be routinely checked for blockage which could cause ponding, flooding, and excessive saturation of the soil and plant root zones.

Surface draining swales shall be kept free of leaves, debris, and sediment accumulations.

Underground drainage systems shall be flushed with water at least twice a year, September and

March, to avoid plugged pipes.

Drain Interceptors must be cleaned two (2) times per year, in September and March.

Landscaped Area Maintenance:

Litter Removal

Landscaped areas shall be kept free of all litter, i.e. paper, rubbish, debris, leaves, branches one (1) time per week during the entire contract term. No debris shall be blown onto roadways or walkways. All litter removed shall be disposed of at the Contractor's expense.

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All mulch, bark and decomposed granite shall be kept within the planter area, and clean from walks and gutters.

Weed Control

The landscaped areas shall be kept free of weeds at all times during the entire term of the contract.

Contractors implementing pest and weed management controls will use Integrated Pest

Management (IPM) techniques that emphasize non-pesticide and non-herbicide alternatives.

Pesticides and herbicides will only be used after careful consideration of non-chemical alternatives and then the least toxic chemicals that are effective shall be used.

Damage caused by herbicide and pesticide use that is not the intended target shall be the liability of the contractor and shall be repaired at contractor’s cost.

Weeds that reach a height of 4 inches or more shall be manually removed or hand pulled. Chemical spraying shall not be permitted for weeds exceeding 4 inches in height. All weed debris shall be removed from the area.

Chemical applications shall be performed in accordance with Local, municipal, County, State and

Federal regulations. Chemical applications shall be performed in accordance with Manufacturer’s

Label.

It is recommended that the contractor have a Pest Control Advisor / Integrated Pest Management

Consultant prepare a fertilizer, pesticide and weed control program.

Fungus, Disease, and/or Insect Infestation Control:

It shall be the Contractor’s responsibility to keep the area free of fungus, disease, and/or insects at all times. Any herbicides/pesticides used must be on the State Department of Agriculture's approved list.

The Contractor shall meet all government agency requirements for storage, use, disposal and record keeping at all times. The Contractor shall have all the current, valid permits and licenses legally required before any herbicide/pesticides are used. The Contractor shall maintain an application on site and Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all chemicals used at the sites. SDS, permits and licenses shall be available for review at any time by the County.

Any pests detected by the Contractor shall be reported to the County Representative within 2 hours of discovery.

The County Representative shall be notified 48 hours prior to the expected date of application of any pesticides. Pesticides must be brought to the work site in the original manufacturer's container and be properly labeled with guaranteed analysis. All spraying shall be done with extreme care to avoid over spray and any hazard or damage to any person, pet or adjacent property area. The

Contractor shall be responsible for restitution and/or repair of any hazard or damage.

Contractors implementing pest and weed management controls will use Integrated Pest

Management (IPM) techniques that emphasize non-pesticide and non-herbicide alternatives.

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Pesticides and herbicides will only be used after careful consideration of non-chemical alternatives and then the least toxic chemicals that are effective shall be used.

Damage caused by herbicide and pesticide use that is not the intended target shall be the liability of the contractor and shall be repaired at contractor’s cost.

It is recommended that the contractor have a Pest Control Advisor / Integrated Pest Management

Consultant prepare a fertilizer, pesticide and weed control program.

Mulch Maintenance

Landscaped areas shall be maintained with a layer of mulch between 2-4 inches at all times.

Mulch composition shall match the intended design of the area. Drip irrigation lines must be covered at all times unless approved by County Representative.

All mulch, bark, decomposed granite, and all softscape/hardscape materials shall be kept within the planter area, and clean from walks and gutters.

Soil Testing

Contractor shall conduct soil testing of each landscaping site within one (1) month of start of contract to quantify the nutrient content and soil texture of each site and annually thereafter. These results will be used to determine the necessity of fertilizer, compost, or amendment application.

Drainage Systems:

Good drainage is essential for healthy and vigorous plant growth, and systems must be routinely checked for blockage which could cause ponding, flooding, and excessive saturation of the soil and plant root zones.

Surface draining swales shall be kept free of leaves, debris, and sediment accumulations.

Underground drainage systems shall be flushed with water at least twice a year, September and

March, to avoid plugged pipes.

Drain Interceptors must be cleaned two (2) times per year, in September and March.

Trees:

Tree Pruning

Tree pruning shall be performed as needed and as directed by the County Representative. Tree pruning shall be considered cuts made up to a height of 10’ in pedestrian pathways and 15’ in lanes of vehicular travel lanes.

Pruning of trees shall be performed to:

o Eliminate encroachment over roadways, walkways, paved areas;

o Eliminate any visibility obstructions o Remove suckers, water sprouts, and other undesirable growth on trees

Page 13 of 49 Release date of October 2, 2025 o Rmove all dead, damaged or diseased branches o Remove growth that is causing damage to other facilities or infrastructure o Eliminate encroachment and/or nuisance concerns for adjacent properties o Remove growth that is blocking or soon will block security cameras, sensors, or any equipment that requires line of sight to function

All pruning activities shall be approved by the County Representative unless the pruning eliminates a hazardous condition. Hazardous conditions should be remedied immediately and documented with photographs that clearly identify the intent and solution for County staff verification.

All pruning shall be done by qualified professional personnel using the Western Chapter of the

International Society of Arboriculture pruning standards, American National Safety Institute

(ANSI) A:300 standards, approved methods and techniques. All pruning cuts shall be made at the branch collar without removing any branch collar tissue. Trees shall be cleanly cut with no tearing of the bark.

Young trees shall be pruned to select and develop permanent scaffold branches that are smaller in diameter than the trunk or the branch to that they are attached. Scaffold branching shall have vertical spacing of approx., 12-18 inches and radial orientation so as not to overlay one another.

Under no circumstances will stripping of lower branches ("raising-up") of young trees be permitted unless authorized by the County Representative. Lower branches shall be reduced to eliminate encroach over sidewalk and roadways unless necessary to eliminate encroachment. All young tree pruning shall be approved by the County Representative unless hazardous condition exists, see above.

The Contractor shall provide replacement trees, at Contractor’s expense, if trees are damaged by the contractor or sub-contractor due to inappropriate activities. The replacement tree(s) shall be replaced in size and kind of the damaged tree unless otherwise directed by the County

Representative.

Any other tree pruning not described above shall be considered unscheduled work and shall be directed and approved by the County Representative. The Contractor shall receive a work authorization prior to beginning any work.

Tree Staking/Guying

The Contractor shall maintain existing stakes, ties and protective devices at all times on all young trees until such time as they are no longer needed for support. The Contractor shall remove the stakes and ties as soon as possible and when directed. Special care shall be taken to avoid any damage to tree trunks or branches by ties and stakes. Staked trees shall be inspected monthly to prevent such damage. The Contractor shall replace any plant material damaged due to the lack of inspection or repair of stakes and ties at the Contractor’s cost.

Trees shall be tied to stakes using only two (2) broad ties of industry standard ties unless the

Contractor obtains prior approval by the County Representative to use an optional method.

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Tree Fertilization

Fertilizer, compost, and/or amendment shall be applied up to one (1) time per year: in October in accordance with soil testing results. Fertilizer shall be homogenized time-release pellet type, balance by weight for seasonal needs or as directed/approved by the County Representative. Each application shall be at a rate of two (2) pounds per one thousand (1,000) square feet. The contractor shall remove all fertilizers that do not remain in the target area, for example sidewalk, gutters, hardscape. The fertilizers that do not remain in the target area shall be collected, reused or disposed of per County of San Mateo regulation. The Landscape Contractor shall provide an annual fertilization schedule to be approved by the County Representative.

All fertilizers shall be watered into the soil within three (3) days of application and/or per manufacturer’s specifications, Where drip systems exist, the fertilizer shall be watered into the soil within three (3) days of application, using a hose if necessary or water truck if necessary. The

Contractor shall use tablets produced for this type of application.

The County Representative may require the Contractor to deposit empty fertilizer bags at a predetermined location to verify composition and rate of application.

The Contractor shall notify the County Representative in writing 48 hours in advance of applications with specific locations identified for verification of applications. Lack of notification will result in payment withholding.

It is recommended that the contractor have a Pest Control Advisor / Integrated Pest Management

Consultant prepare a fertilizer, pesticide and weed control program.

Tree Well

Mulch rings shall be maintained around all trees. A circle with a radius of 12 inches beyond the crown of the tree. Tree wells shall be kept free of weeds, groundcovers, shrubs, and vines at all times during the entire term of the contract. Only mechanical removal of weeds is permitted in the tree well.

Tree Grates

Tree grates shall be kept free of weeds, groundcovers, shrubs, and vines at all times during the entire term of the contract.

Shrubs:

Shrub Pruning:

Shrub pruning shall be performed one (1) time per week to:

o Eliminate encroachment over roadways, walkways, paved areas, pedestrian areas o Eliminate any visibility obstructions o Remove undesirable growth o Remove all dead, damaged or diseased branches

Page 15 of 49 Release date of October 2, 2025 o Remove growth that is causing damage to other facilities or infrastructure o Eliminate encroachment and/or nuisance concerns for adjacent properties and for landscape aesthetics purposes o Remove growth that is blocking or soon will block security cameras, sensors, or any equipment that requires line of sight to function o Utilize horticultural practices specific to each plant that induce flowering or growth throughout the year

Shrub pruning for the following shall also be performed one (1) time per year as specifically described below:

o Crawling Rose Varieties shall be pruned in January to less than 12 inches o Shrub Rose Varieties shall be pruned in January 50% or as directed o Bunch Grasses shall be pruned in February to 6 inches in height. Shall be divided as necessary in February, and every 2 years after.

o Rushes – Shall be thinned in February to remove older stems. Shall be divided as necessary in

February. Shall be divided as necessary in February, and every 2 years after.

o Sedge – Shall be raked with gloved hands and/or pruned between 50% and 70% as necessary every February. Shall be divided as necessary in February, and every 2 years after.

Shrubs shall be pruned to ensure proper growth and control. All pruning shall be done by qualified professional personnel using approved methods and techniques. Shrubs shall be cleanly cut with no tearing of the tissue. Shrubs are to be allowed to take their natural shape whenever possible.

Shearing or "boxing" will not be permitted unless directed by the County Representative.

The Contractor shall provide replacement shrubs, at Contractor’s expense, if shrubs are damaged.

Shrub Fertilization:

Fertilizer, compost, and/or amendment shall be applied up to two (2) times per year: in March and October in accordance with soil testing results . Fertilizer shall be homogenized time-release pellet type, balance by weight for seasonal needs or as directed/approved by the County

Representative. Each application shall be at a rate of two (2) pounds per one thousand (1,000) square feet. The contractor shall remove all fertilizers that do not remain in the target area, for example sidewalk, gutters, hardscape. The fertilizers that do not remain in the target area shall be collected, reused or disposed of per County of San Mateo regulation. The Landscape Contractor shall provide an annual fertilization schedule to be approved by the County Representative.

All fertilizers shall be watered into the soil within three (3) days of application and/or per manufacturer’s specifications. The fertilizer shall be watered into the soil within three (3) days of application, using a hose if necessary or water truck if necessary.

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The County Representative may require the Contractor to deposit empty fertilizer bags at a predetermined location to verify composition and rate of application.

The Contractor shall notify the County Representative in writing 48 hours in advance of applications with specific locations identified for verification of applications. Lack of notification will result in payment withholding.

It is recommended that the contractor have a Pest Control Advisor / Integrated Pest Management

Consultant prepare a fertilizer, pesticide and weed control program.

Shrub Staking

Contractor shall maintain a continuing program of staking, tying and otherwise ensuring that all shrubs and requiring training or support shall be securely fastened to stakes, walls, fences, lattices or other appurtenances necessary to maintain plants in a proper upright manner to affect a neat appearance and to ensure that proper growth is maintained. Plants shall be inspected weekly and tight or worn ties loosened, replaced, or removed

Groundcover and Vines:

Groundcover and Vine Pruning

Ground covers and vines shall be pruned up one (1) time per week to:

o Eliminate encroachment over roadways, walkways, paved areas, pedestrian areas;

o Eliminate any visibility obstructions o Remove undesirable growth o Remove all dead, damaged or diseased branches o Remove growth that is causing damage to other facilities or infrastructure o Eliminate encroachment and/or nuisance concerns for adjacent properties and for landscape aesthetics purposes o Remove growth that is blocking or soon will block security cameras, sensors, or any equipment that requires line of sight to function o Utilize horticultural practices specific to each plant that induce flowering or growth throughout the year

Vine pruning for the following shall also be performed as needed as specifically described below:

o Jasmine vines on Parking Structure 2 must be pruned as often as needed to prevent vines from growing into the mesh siding above.

o Ivy at Elections-Registration must be pruned as often as needed to prevent the security cameras from being blocked

Groundcover and Vine Edging:

Page 17 of 49 Release date of October 2, 2025

Groundcovers and vines shall be edged two (2) times per month, along sidewalks, mow strips and edges between groundcover and other plant material types throughout the contract term.

Groundcover and vines shall not be permitted to touch or cover the root crowns of trees and shrubs.

Care shall be taken to protect trees and shrubs from damage due to pruning activity.

Damage caused by the contractor’s activities shall be repaired at contractor’s expense.

Groundcover and Vine Fertilization:

Fertilizer, compost, and/or amendment shall be applied up to two (2) times per year: in March and October in accordance with soil testing results. Fertilizer shall be homogenized time-release pellet type, balance by weight for seasonal needs or as directed/approved by the County

Representative. Each application shall be at a rate of two (2) pounds per one thousand (1,000) square feet. The contractor shall remove all fertilizers that do not remain in the target area, for example sidewalk, gutters, hardscape. The fertilizers that do not remain in the target area shall be collected, reused or disposed of per County of San Mateo regulation. The Landscape Contractor shall provide an annual fertilization schedule to be approved by the County Representative.

All fertilizers shall be watered into the soil within three (3) days of application and/or per manufacturer’s specifications, using a hose if necessary or water truck if necessary.

The County Representative may require the Contractor to deposit empty fertilizer bags at a predetermined location to verify composition and rate of application.

The Contractor shall notify the County Representative in writing 48 hours in advance of applications with specific locations identified for verification of applications. Lack of notification will result in payment withholding.

It is recommended that the contractor have a Pest Control Advisor / Integrated Pest Management

Consultant prepare a fertilizer, pesticide and weed control program.

Contractor shall maintain a continuing program of staking, tying and otherwise ensuring that all vines requiring training or support shall be securely fastened to stakes, walls, fences, lattices or other appurtenances necessary to maintain plants in a proper upright manner to affect a neat appearance and to ensure that proper growth is maintained. Plants shall be inspected weekly and tight or worn ties loosened, replaced, or removed

Annual/Color Plantings:

Annual/Color Plantings Maintenance

Annual plantings shall be replaced three (3) times per year as directed by the County

Representative. Annuals shall be planted not less than six (6) inches nor shall they be planted more than eight (8) inches apart. Annuals shall be approved by the County Representative prior to planting. The Contractor shall be responsible to ensure that the beds remain in good condition throughout the contract term. The Contractor shall remove spent annuals from the site

Annual/Color Fertilization

Page 18 of 49 Release date of October 2, 2025

Fertilizer, compost, and/or amendment shall be applied up to three (3) times per year in accordance with soil testing results. Fertilizer shall be homogenized time-release pellet type, balance by weight for seasonal needs or as directed/approved by the County Representative. Each application shall be at a rate of two (2) pounds per one thousand (1,000) square feet. The contractor shall remove all fertilizers that do not remain in the target area, for example sidewalk, gutters, hardscape. The fertilizers that do not remain in the target area shall be collected, reused or disposed of per County of San Mateo regulation. The Landscape Contractor shall provide an annual fertilization schedule to be approved by the County Representative.

All fertilizers shall be watered into the soil within three (3) days of application and/or per manufacturer’s specifications, the fertilizer shall be watered into the soil within three (3) days of application, using a hose if necessary or water truck if necessary

The County Representative may require the Contractor to deposit empty fertilizer bags at a predetermined location to verify composition and rate of application.

The Contractor shall notify the County Representative in writing 48 hours in advance of applications with specific locations identified for verification of applications. Lack of notification will result in payment withholding.

It is recommended that the contractor have a Pest Control Advisor / Integrated Pest Management

Consultant prepare a fertilizer, pesticide and weed control program.

Fescue:

Fescue Seed head Removal and Edging

Hard Fescue and Tall Fescue seed heads shall be weed eaten four (4) times per year, as directed by the County Representative. Seed head clippings shall be removed from the site. Fescue shall be edged along the entire perimeter two (2) times per year as directed by the County Representative.

Fescue Mowing, Trimming and Edging

Fescue shall be mowed or weed eaten to a height of four (4) inches and shall be edged along the entire perimeter one (1) time per year as directed by the County Representative.

Fescue Weed Control

The landscaped areas shall be kept free of weeds at all times during the entire term of the contract.

The County of San Mateo (County) seeks to protect the health and safety of its employees and the public, the environment and water quality, as well as to provide sustainable solutions for pest control through the reduced use of pesticides and herbicides on property including buildings owned or managed by the County by applying Integrated Pesticide Management principles and techniques. The municipal regional stormwater permit requires that the County of San Mateo minimize reliance on pesticides and herbicides that threaten water quality.

Contractors implementing pest and weed management controls will use Integrated Pest

Management (IPM) techniques that emphasize non-pesticide and non-herbicide alternatives.

Page 19 of 49 Release date of October 2, 2025

Pesticides and herbicides will only be used after careful consideration of non-chemical alternatives and then the least toxic chemicals that are effective shall be used.

Damage caused by herbicide and pesticide use that is not the intended target shall be the liability of the contractor and shall be repaired at contractor’s cost.

Weeds that reach a height of 4 inches or more shall be manually removed or hand pulled. Chemical spraying shall not be permitted for weeds exceeding 4 inches in height. All weed debris shall be removed from the area.

Chemical applications shall be performed in accordance with Local, municipal, County, State and

Federal regulations. Chemical applications shall be performed in accordance with Manufacturer’s

Label.

It is recommended that the contractor have a Pest Control Advisor / Integrated Pest Management

Consultant prepare a fertilizer, pesticide and weed control program.

Turf:

Turf Mowing, Trimming, and Edging

All turf shall be mowed to maintain a uniform height of no more than 2-4 inches. Turf shall be mowed one (1) time per week between March 1 and October 31. Turf shall be mowed one (1) time every other week between November 1 and February 28. Height of mow shall be determined based on seasonal needs or desired appearance. Adjustments to the mow height may be required by the County of San Mateo.

All turf shall be mechanically edged along the entire perimeter. Turf shall be edged one (1) time per week between March 1 and October 31. Turf shall be edged one (1) time every other week between November 1 and February 28.

Trimming and cleaning around irrigation heads shall be done as necessary to provide proper water coverage and head operation. String edgers may be used as needed around poles, against sound walls, and around controller enclosures, vaults, etc. Damage caused by string edging shall be repaired by the contractor.

Tree wells in lawn areas shall have a minimum twenty four 24-inch radius from tree trunk, clear and void of turf and weeds. String edgers may be used, but care shall be taken not to damage trees. Damage to trees will result in replacement of the tree at Contractor’s expense.

The contractor shall use walk behind mowers for all mowing of turf unless otherwise approved.

Papers, rubbish and debris shall be removed by the Contractor prior to mowing.

Turf Fertilization

Fertilizer, compost, and/or amendment shall be applied up to two (2) times per year: in March and October in accordance with soil testing results. Fertilizer shall be homogenized time-release pellet type, balance by weight for seasonal needs or as directed/approved by the County

Representative. Each application shall be at a rate of two (2) pounds per one thousand (1,000)

Page 20 of 49 Release date of October 2, 2025 square feet. The contractor shall remove all fertilizers that do not remain in the target area, for example sidewalk, gutters, hardscape. The fertilizers that do not remain in the target area shall be collected, reused or disposed of per County of San Mateo regulation. The Landscape Contractor shall provide an annual fertilization schedule to be approved by the County Representative.

All fertilizers shall be watered into the soil within three (3) days of application and/or per manufacturer’s specifications, using a hose if necessary or water truck if necessary.

The County Representative may require the Contractor to deposit empty fertilizer bags at a predetermined location to verify composition and rate of application.

The Contractor shall notify the County Representative in writing 48 hours in advance of applications with specific locations identified for verification of applications. Lack of notification will result in payment withholding.

It is recommended that the contractor have a Pest Control Advisor / Integrated Pest Management

Consultant prepare a fertilizer, pesticide and weed control program.

Turf Aeration

All turf areas shall be aerated one (1) time per year: in April. A coring-type aerator shall be used, and all sprinkler heads must be flagged prior to aeration. Damages by aeration activities to the landscape and /or facilities shall be repaired by the contractor at the contractor’s expense.

The Contractor shall notify the County Representative 48 hours in advance of aeration.

Turf Weed Control

The landscaped areas shall be kept free of weeds at all times during the entire term of the contract.

The County of San Mateo (County) seeks to protect the health and safety of its employees and the public, the environment and water quality, as well as to provide sustainable solutions for pest control through the reduced use of pesticides and herbicides on property including buildings owned or managed by the County by applying Integrated Pesticide Management principles and techniques.