HomeMy WebLinkAboutPH-1 - 26-205 - 2. Hearing Officer Memorandum - 5/5/2026ECONOMIC & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT
77 FAIR DRIVE, POST OFFICE BOX 1200, COSTA MESA CA. 92628-1200
Building Safety Division (714) 754-5273 Community Improvement Division (714) 754-5638
Housing & Community Development (714) 754-4870 Planning Division (714) 754-5245
www.costamesaca.gov
1 | Page
MEMORANDUM
Item #: 25-01 Public Hearing Date: 10/23/2025
LOCATION: 1601 BAKER STREET
FILE NO: PGSH-24-0002
REQUEST FOR: ALLOW A SOBER LIVING HOME WITH SIX OR FEWER PERSONS
(NOT COUNTING THE HOUSE MANAGER)
APPLICANT: GEORGE VILAGUT ON BEHALF OF STEPHOUSE RECOVERY INC.
CEQA: PROJECT IS EXEMPT FROM CEQA: SECTION 15268 –
MINISTERIAL PROJECTS AND SECTION 15301 – EXISTING
FACILITIES
PLANNER: VICTOR MENDEZ
GENERAL PLAN: LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL (LDR)
ZONING: R-1 – SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
The Special Use Permit (SUP) application (PGSH-24-0002) has been filed for a proposed
single-unit sober living home, which will accommodate six recovery residents and one live-
in house manager. The proposed site is located at 1601 Baker Street within the R1 zoning
district and has been submitted by George Vilagut on behalf of Stephouse Recovery Inc.
The project site encompasses approximately 0.16 acres and consists of a single parcel. It is
currently developed with a 2,500 square-foot single-family residence built in 1959. The
surrounding area consists of -family residential properties to the west, south, and east, with
additional single-family homes located across Baker Street.
BACKGROUND
Facilities licensed by the state to care for up to six residents are exempt from local regulation
per state law. However, in accordance with Costa Mesa Municipal Code (CMMC) Title 13,
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ATTACHMENT 2
ECONOMIC & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT
77 FAIR DRIVE, POST OFFICE BOX 1200, COSTA MESA CA. 92628-1200
Building Safety Division (714) 754-5273 Community Improvement Division (714) 754-5638
Housing & Community Development (714) 754-4870 Planning Division (714) 754-5245
www.costamesaca.gov
2 | Page
Chapter XV, unlicensed group homes serving up to six residents in any residential zone must
obtain approval of a SUP.
Presently, the Director of Economic and Development Services is authorized to issue the
special use permit as a ministerial permit, based on the facility’s compliance with the
adopted standards for location and operation. As a ministerial permit, review is limited to
the objective standards identified in the zoning ordinance. At least 10 days prior to issuing
a special use permit, the Director shall direct written notice to be mailed to the owner of
record and occupants of all properties within 500 feet of the location of the group home to
serve as notification of the permit and the hearing. Prior to the issuance of a SUP, the
Director is obligated to hold a hearing, for the purpose of receiving information regarding
compliance with applicable provisions pursuant to Costa Mesa Municipal Code (CMMC)
subsections 13-311(a) and (b), in accordance with the limitations of a ministerial permit
review.
The purpose of the public hearing for a Special Use Permit for an unlicensed group home
of six or fewer occupants (excluding the housing manager) is strictly to collect information
on compliance with the applicable standards in Costa Mesa’s Municipal Code (e.g. § 13-
311). It is a ministerial process — staff’s role is limited to verifying whether the application
conforms to the ordinance, not making discretionary judgments.
Comments or concerns submitted by the public become part of the record and may provide
factual evidence relevant to compliance. Staff and the applicant may respond to or clarify
such information, but all decisions must be grounded in the objective requirements of the
ordinance.The only instances the special use permit can be denied or revoked upon a
determination, and if already issued shall be denied or revoked upon a hearing, by the
Director that any of the following circumstances exist:
(1)Any owner/operator or staff person has provided materially false or misleading
information on the application or omitted any pertinent information;
(2)Any owner/operator or staff person has an employment history in which he or she
was terminated during the past two years because of physical assault, sexual
harassment, embezzlement or theft; falsifying a drug test; and selling or furnishing
illegal drugs or alcohol.
(3)Any owner/operator or staff person has been convicted of or pleaded nolo
contendere, within the last seven to 10 years, to any of the following offenses:
i.Any sex offense for which the person is required to register as a sex offender
under California Penal Code section 290 (last 10 years);
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ECONOMIC & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT
77 FAIR DRIVE, POST OFFICE BOX 1200, COSTA MESA CA. 92628-1200
Building Safety Division (714) 754-5273 Community Improvement Division (714) 754-5638
Housing & Community Development (714) 754-4870 Planning Division (714) 754-5245
www.costamesaca.gov
3 | Page
ii. Arson offenses—Violations of Penal Code Sections 451—455 (last seven years);
or
iii. Violent felonies, as defined in Penal Code section 667.5, which involve doing
bodily harm to another person (last 10 years).
iv. The unlawful sale or furnishing of any controlled substances (last seven years).
(4) Any owner/operator or staff person is on parole or formal probation supervision
on the date of the submittal of the application or at any time thereafter.
(5) The owner/operator accepts residents, other than a house manager, who are not
handicapped as defined by the FHAA and FEHA.
(6) A special use permit for a sober living home shall also be denied upon a
determination, and if already issued, any transfer shall be denied or revoked,
upon a hearing, by the Director that any of the following additional circumstances
exist:
i. Any owner/operator or staff person of a sober living home is a recovering drug
or alcohol abuser and upon the date of application or employment has had
less than one full year of sobriety.
ii. The owner/operator of a sober living home fails to immediately take measures
to remove any resident who uses alcohol or illegally uses prescription or non-
prescription drugs, or who is not actively participating in a legitimate recovery
program from contact with all other sober residents.
iii. The sober living home, as measured by the closest property lines, is located
within 650 feet of any other sober living home or state licensed alcoholism or
drug abuse recovery or treatment facility. If a state-licensed alcoholism or drug
abuse recovery or treatment facility moves within 650 feet of an existing sober
living home, this shall not cause the revocation of the sober living home's
permit or be grounds for denying a transfer of such permit.
(7) For any other significant and/or repeated violations of this section and/or any
other applicable laws and/or regulations, including, but not limited to, failure to
comply with the provisions of subsections (a)(10) through (13).
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ECONOMIC & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT
77 FAIR DRIVE, POST OFFICE BOX 1200, COSTA MESA CA. 92628-1200
Building Safety Division (714) 754-5273 Community Improvement Division (714) 754-5638
Housing & Community Development (714) 754-4870 Planning Division (714) 754-5245
www.costamesaca.gov
4 | Page
(8) Revocation shall not apply to any group home, which otherwise would cause it to
be in violation of this section, that has obtained a reasonable accommodation
pursuant to section 13-200.62
STANDARD OF REVIEW
The project complies with CMMC Sections 13-32, 13-85 and 13-311, as shown in the project
data table below. The home will accommodate six recovery residents and one full-time
house manager ensuring adherence to the maximum occupancy limit. The group home will
be in the primary dwelling unit, with no accessory dwelling unit on the property, meeting
zoning standards that prohibit group homes in accessory units unless both units serve the
same purpose. Parking requirements are satisfied, as the five-bedroom home requires a
minimum of four parking spaces, and the property provides five on-site spaces—two in the
garage and three in the driveway. Additionally, there are no other sober living homes or
state-licensed alcoholism or drug abuse recovery or treatment facilities within a 650-foot
radius of the proposed residence, ensuring compliance with the required separation
distance. Furthermore, the application includes all required documentation in compliance
with CMMC Section 13-311, including the written intake procedures and relapse policy.
Based on the information provided and after a thorough review, the SUP application is
approved, subject to the following conditions:
1. Prior to operation of the sober living home, the applicant shall schedule and pass an
inspection by the Costa Mesa Fire Department to verify that the property meets the
basic fire and life safety requirements for a single-family dwelling, including but not
limited to the installation of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors.
2. Failure to comply with the requirements listed in CMMC Section 13-311 may result in
the revocation of this permit.
PROJECT DATA TABLE - COMPLIANCE WITH KEY DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Zoning Section DEVELOPMENT
STANDARD CODE REQUIREMENT PROPOSED/
PROVIDED MEETS CODE
Residential
Development
Standards - R1
Zone (CMMC 13-
32)
Minimum Lot Area 6,000 SF 7,384 SF ✅ Yes
Maximum
Building/Structure Height 2 Stories / 27 FT 1 story / 15 FT
2 IN ✅ Yes
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ECONOMIC & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT
77 FAIR DRIVE, POST OFFICE BOX 1200, COSTA MESA CA. 92628-1200
Building Safety Division (714) 754-5273 Community Improvement Division (714) 754-5638
Housing & Community Development (714) 754-4870 Planning Division (714) 754-5245
www.costamesaca.gov
5 | Page
PROJECT DATA TABLE - COMPLIANCE WITH KEY DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Zoning Section DEVELOPMENT
STANDARD CODE REQUIREMENT PROPOSED/
PROVIDED MEETS CODE
Maximum Density 1 Dwelling Unit per
6,000 Square Feet
1 Dwelling
Unit ✅ Yes
Setbacks:
Front 20 FT 20 FT ✅ Yes
Side – Left (Interior) 5 FT 11 FT ✅ Yes
Side – Right (Interior) 5 FT 7 FT ✅ Yes
Rear 10 FT 14 FT 6 IN ✅ Yes
Front 20 FT 20 FT ✅ Yes
Residential Off-
Street Parking
Standards - R1
Zone (CMMC 13-
85)
Parking:
Standard 4 5 ✅ Yes
Group Homes - R1
Zone (CMMC 13-
311)
Primary vs Accessory
Dwelling Unit
Group Home Must be in
a Primary Dwelling
Unit; Not Allowed in an
Accessory Unit Unless
the Primary Unit is
Used for the Same
Purpose
Located in the
Primary
Dwelling Unit;
No Accessory
Secondary
Unit on the
Property or
Proposed
✅ Yes
Maximum Number of
Occupants
6 or Fewer Occupants
(Excluding House
Manager)
6 Occupants
(Excluding
House
Manager)
✅ Yes
Minimum Distance From
Another Sober Living
Home or State Licensed
Alcoholism or Drug
Abuse Recovery or
Treatment Facility
≥ 650 FT From Another
Sober Living Home or
State Licensed Facility
Not Located
Within 650 FT
of Another
Facility
✅ Yes
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Zoning Section DEVELOPMENT STANDARD CODE REQUIREMENT PROPOSED/PROVIDED MEETS CODE
Minimum Lot Area 6,000 SF 7,384 SF ✅ Yes
Maximum Building/Structure Height 2 Stories / 27 FT 1 story / 15 FT 2 IN ✅ Yes
Maximum Density 1 Dwelling Unit per 6,000
Square Feet 1 Dwelling Unit ✅ Yes
Front 20 FT 20 FT ✅ Yes
Side – Left (Interior)5 FT 11 FT ✅ Yes
Side – Right (Interior)5 FT 7 FT ✅ Yes
Rear 10 FT 14 FT 6 IN ✅ Yes
Front 20 FT 20 FT ✅ Yes
Standard 4 5 ✅ Yes
Primary vs Accessory Dwelling Unit
Group Home Must be in a
Primary Dwelling Unit; Not
Allowed in an Accessory Unit
Unless the Primary Unit is
Used for the Same Purpose
Located in the Primary Dwelling Unit;
No Accessory Secondary Unit on the
Property or Proposed
✅ Yes
Maximum Number of Occupants 6 or Fewer Occupants
(Excluding House Manager)
6 Occupants (Excluding House
Manager)✅ Yes
Minimum Distance From Another Sober
Living Home or State Licensed Alcoholism
or Drug Abuse Recovery or Treatment
Facility
≥ 650 FT From Another Sober
Living Home or State Licensed
Facility
Not Located Within 650 FT of Another
Facility ✅ Yes
PROJECT DATA TABLE - COMPLIANCE WITH KEY DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Residential Development Standards - R1
Zone (CMMC 13-32)
Residential Off-Street Parking Standards
- R1 Zone (CMMC 13-85)
Group Homes - R1 Zone (CMMC 13-311)
Parking:
Setbacks:
ATTACHMENT 1
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12'-3"
11
'
BEDROOM#4
BEDROOM#5
BEDROOM#3
BEDROOM#2BEDROOM#1
KITCHEN
LIVING
ROOM
DINING
PROPERTY LINE = 67'
PR
O
P
E
R
T
Y
L
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=
1
0
3
'
GARAGE
7' GATE
7'
'
B
L
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K
W
A
L
L
F
E
N
C
E
PCC CITY SIDEWALK EASEMENT
BAKER ST
A0
='1'40'
1 VICINITY MAP
PROJECT DATA
PLAN SHEETS
ATTACHMENT 2
-7-
12'-3"
11
'
BEDROOM#4
BEDROOM#5
BEDROOM#3
BEDROOM#2BEDROOM#1
KITCHEN
LIVING
ROOM
DINING
PROPERTY LINE = 67'
PR
O
P
E
R
T
Y
L
I
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=
1
0
3
'
GARAGE
7' GATE
7'
'
B
L
O
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K
W
A
L
L
F
E
N
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E
PCC CITY SIDEWALK EASEMENT A1
24"
30
"
15
"
15
"
TYPICAL TOILET MINIMUM CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS
CLEARANCE FOR WATER CLOSETS TO BE A MINIMUM
OF 24" IN FRONT ND 15" FROM CENTER TO ANY SIDE
WALL OR OBSTRUCTION.
='1'40'
-8-
7'
-
1
0
"
15
'
-
2
"
12
'
-
8
"
REAR ELEVATION
A2
NORTH ELEVATION
SOUTH ELEVATION
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STUCCO
ROOF
GLASSALUMINUM
WOODEN DOORGLASS
ALUMINUM
STUCCO
ROOF
A3
EAST ELEVATION
WEST ELEVATION
-10-
BA
K
E
R
S
T
R
E
E
T
PROPERTY LINE
FENCESOLAR
PROPERTY LINE
BOUNDARY WALL
DRIVEWAY
105'-8"
67
'
-
5
"
105'-9"
EX
I
S
T
I
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G
D
W
E
L
L
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G
SITE PLAN
Scale 1/8" = 1'-0"
ROOF PLANS
GENERAL NOTES
1. INSULATION HAS 1" MIN. AIR SPACE ABOVE IN VAULTED CEILING.
2. INSTALLATION OF ROOFING SHALL BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH
MANUFACTURES SPECIFICATIONS.
3. COMPOSITION SHINGLE ROOF OVER LAPPED 30# A.S. FELT (TYP. THRU OUT)
4. COORDINATE INSTALLATION OF NEW ROOFING WITH OTHER TRADES.
REPORT ANY CONFLICTS WITH ITEMS INSTALLED BY OTHER TRADES TO
DESIGNER.
5. ALL ROOF CURBS FOR NEW ROOFTOP EXHAUST FANS , HVAC UNITS AND
CONDENSING UNITS SHALL HAVE CURB HEIGHTS THAT WILL ALLOW FOR A
MINIMUM OF 8" BASE FLASHING HEIGHTS FOR THE ROOF SYSTEM.
6. ALL PLUMBING VENTS SHALL EXTEND ABOVE THE FINISHED SURFACE OF
THE ROOF SYSTEM AS REQUIRED TO PROVIDE FOR A MINIMUM OF 8" BASE
FLASHING.
7. PROVIDE 36" WIDE WALK PADS @ SERVICE SIDE OF ALL MECH. EQUIPMENT.
8. ALL EXPOSED METAL FLASHING/ TRIM PIECES TO BE PRE-FINISHED 24 GA.
STL. U.N.O.. PROVIDE PRE-FINISHED OR FIELD PAINT FLASHING ONLY AS
NOTED.
9. R903.4.1 OVERFLOW DRAINS AND SCUPPERS. WHERE ROOF DRAINS ARE
REQUIRED, OVERFLOW DRAINS HAVING THE SAME SIZE AS THE ROOF
DRAINS SHALL BE INSTALLED WITH THE INLET FLOW LINE LOCATED 2
INCHES (51 MM) ABOVE THE LOW POINT OF THE ROOF, OR OVERFLOW
SCUPPERS HAVING THREE TIMES THE SIZE OF THE ROOF DRAINS AND
HAVING A MINIMUM OPENING HEIGHT OF 4 INCHES (102 MM) SHALL BE
INSTALLED IN THE ADJACENT PARAPET WALLS WITH THE INLET FLOW
LOCATED 2 INCHES (51 MM) ABOVE THE LOW POINT OF THE ROOF SERVED.
THE INSTALLATION AND SIZING OF OVERFLOW DRAINS, LEADERS AND
CONDUCTORS SHALL COMPLY WITH THE CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE.
10. PROVIDE ICE BREAKS AT ALL PERIMETER AREAS OF STANDING SEAM
ROOFING.
11. PROVIDE 36" WIDE WALK PADS @ SERVICE SIDE OF ALL MECH. EQUIPMENT.
& PROVIDE 36" WIDE WALK PADS AROUND ALL ROOF HATCHES & 72"X72"
PADS AT LADDERS.
12. ALL EXPOSED METAL FLASHING/ TRIM PIECES TO BE PRE-FINISHED 24 GA.
STL. U.N.O.. PROVIDE PRE-FINISHED OR FIELD PAINT FLASHING ONLY AS
NOTED.
13. GUTTERS - ALL GUTTERS TO BE PRE-FINISHED 24 GA. STL. . PROVIDE
PRE-FINISHED GALV. STL. BENT PLATE BRACKETS AND 14GAX1" GALV. STL.
SPACERS @ 36" O.C. MAX. - STAGGER W/ EACH OTHER @ 18" O.C.. PROVIDE
PRE-FORMED
14. GUTTER E.J.'S PER SMACNA FIG. 1-7, TYP. @ 30'-0" MAX.. PROVIDE S.S.
SCREENS @ ALL GUTTERS PER SMACNA FIG 1-24.
15. ALL DOWNSPOUTS TO BE PRE-FINISHED 24 GA. GALV. STL., PER SMACNA
FIG 1-32B. DOWNSPOUTS ARE 6"X6" U.N.O., LOCATED AS NOTED ON ROOF
PLAN. 15GA.X2" GALV. STL. HANGERS @ 48" O.C. MAX. PER SMACNA FIG
1-35B.
16. PROVIDE PAINTED 4' TALL CAST ALUM. DOWNSPOUT BOOTS @ ALL DOWN
SPOUTS, TIE INTO SUB-GRADE DRAINAGE, RE: CIVIL.
17. TAPERED INSULATION TO BE 1/4" PER FOOT MIN. SLOPE TO DRAIN. ROOF
PLAN SHOWS TAPERED INSULATION FOR GRAPHIC REPRESENTATION ONLY.
CONTRACTOR TO VERIFY INSULATION REQUIRED TO SLOPE PRIOR TO
MEMBRANE INSULATION.
18. PROVIDE TAPERED INSULATION CRICKETS 1/4" PER FOOT MIN. SLOPE @
HIGH SIDE OF ALL MECHANICAL UNITS AND ROOF HATCHES, TO SHED
WATER AROUND AND MAINTAIN POSITIVE ROOF DRAINAGE.
19. ALL WOOD BLOCKING AT ROOF EDGES, RIDGES, ETC. TO BE 2X FR-WD
BLOCKING.
20. VERIFY ELEVATION OF ROOF DRAIN RELATIVE TO OVERFLOW SCUPPER
PRIOR TO INSTALLATION OF SCUPPERS
A4
1/2" CDX PLY
APROVED
ROOF COVERING
ALTERNATE LOCATION
OF GWB OR 2X BLOCKING IF NO
CEILING FINISH IS
2X4 BLOCK
FASCIA
PROVIDED
SOFFITBOARD
5/8 TYPE XGYPSUM SHEATING
STUCCO FINISH
5/8 TYPE XGYPSUM WALLBOARD
2X FRAMING
STRUCTURALSHEATING ASREQUIRED
1 HOUR RATED WALL AND4 SCALE: NTSPROTECTED EAVE OVERHANG
NOTES:
4" MIN.
- THE ROOF OVERHANG CANNOT EXCEED 12" AND MUST BE
ONE-HOUR PROTECTED OR EQUAL ON UNDERSIDE IF ADU IS
LOCATED UNDER 5' FROM PROPERTY LINE OVERHANG SHALL BE
ADJUSTED TO MIN. REQUIRED. AS PER CODE SECTION R302
12" OR
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8'
-
0
"
A-A (NTS)
A5
5 1 HOUR FIRE - GENERIC SCALE: NTSEXTERIOR WALLS
GYPSUM WALLBOARD, GYPSUM SHEATHING, WOOD STUDS
EXTERIOR SIDE: ONE LAYER 48" WIDE 5/8" TYPE X GYPSUMSHEATHING APPLIED PARALLEL TO 2X4 WOOD STUDS 24" O.C.
WITH 1-3/4" GALVANIZED ROOFING NAILS 4" O.C. AT VERTICALJOINTS AND 7" O.C. AT INTERMEDIATE STUDS AND TOP AND
BOTTOM PLATES. JOINTS OF GYPSUM SHEATHING MAY BE LEFT
UNTREATED. EXTERIOR CLADDING TO BE ATTACHED THROUGH
SHEATHING TO STUDS.
INTERIOR SIDE: ONE LAYER 5/8" TYPE X GYPSUM WALLBOARD,WATER-RESISTANT GYPSUM BACKING BOARD, OR GYPSUM
VENNER BASE APPLIED PARALLEL OR AT RIGHT ANGLES TOSTUDS WITH 6d COATED NAILS, 1-7/8" LONG, 0.0915" SHANK, 1/4"HEADS, 7" O.C. (LOAD-BEARING)
THICKNESS: VARIESAPPROX. WEIGHT: 7 PSFFIRE TEST: SEE WP 3510(UL R3501-47,-48,9-17-65
UL DESIGN U309,UL R1319-129, 7-22-70,UL DESIGN U314)
EXTERIOR SIDE
INTERIOR SIDE
SECTION A-A
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Legal_Name Facility_Address Facility_Address_2 Facility_City Facility_State Facility_Zip
Distance from 1601 Baker St
(Feet)
Distance from 1601 Baker St
(Miles)
NEW DIRECTIONS FOR WOMEN, INC.2601 WILLO LANE COSTA MESA CA 92627 17,952 ft 3.4 mi
SOUTH COAST COUNSELING, INC.693 PLUMER STREET COSTA MESA CA 92627-2720 13,728 ft 2.6 mi
OPUS HEALTH, LLC 925 VICTORIA STREET COSTA MESA CA 92627 11,088 ft 2.1 mi
RESURGENCE CALIFORNIA, LLC 3151 AIRWAY AVENUE SUITE K203 COSTA MESA CA 92626 16,368 ft 3.1 mi
NANCY CLARK AND ASSOCIATES, INC.1110 VICTORIA STREET COSTA MESA CA 92627 11,616 ft 2.2 mi
BREAKAWAY HEALTH CORPORATION 3151 AIRWAY AVE SUITE D-1/D-2 COSTA MESA CA 92626 16,368 ft 3.1 mi
YELLOWSTONE WOMEN'S FIRST STEP HOUSE, INC.3132 BOSTON WAY COSTA MESA CA 92626 19,008 ft 1.5 mi
YELLOWSTONE WOMEN'S FIRST STEP HOUSE, INC.154 EAST BAY STREET COSTA MESA CA 92627-2147 15,840 ft 3 mi
YELLOWSTONE WOMEN'S FIRST STEP HOUSE, INC.2028 FULLERTON AVENUE UNIT A, B & C COSTA MESA CA 92627 15,840 ft 3 mi
YELLOWSTONE WOMEN'S FIRST STEP HOUSE, INC.590 TRAVERSE DRIVE COSTA MESA CA 92626 15,840 ft 3 mi
SAFE HARBOR TREATMENT CENTER FOR WOMEN, INC.546 BERNARD STREET COSTA MESA CA 92627 14,784 ft 2.8 mi
SAFE HARBOR TREATMENT CENTER FOR WOMEN, INC.240 KNOX STREET COSTA MESA CA 92627 20,592 ft 3.9 mi
SAFE HARBOR TREATMENT CENTER FOR WOMEN, INC.236 KNOX STREET COSTA MESA CA 92627 20,064 ft 3.8 mi
MONROE OPERATIONS, LLC 3189 PULLMAN STREET COSTA MESA CA 92626 18,480 ft 3.5 mi
ARROWOOD CAPITAL, INC. 1640 SUPERIOR AVE COSTA MESA CA 92627 19,008 ft 3.6 mi
DREAM RECOVERY LLC 3188 AIRWAY AVE BLDG J COSTA MESA CA 92626 18,480 ft 3.5 mi
DIVINE BLISS 1219 PARNELL PLACE COSTA MESA CA 92626 5,280 ft 1 mi
HOTEL CALIFORNIA BY THE SEA, LLC 1509 ORANGE AVENUE A COSTA MESA CA 92627 20,064 ft 3.8 mi
THE ALAMO LIVINGOOD CENTER, INC 3151 AIRWAY AVENUE SUITE J-2 COSTA MESA CA 92626 16,368 ft 3.1 mi
AKUA BEHAVIORAL HEALTH, INC.369 RALCAM PLACE COSTA MESA CA 92627 10,560 ft 2 mi
PARTNERS PROJECT INC.1001 W 17TH ST SUITE A COSTA MESA CA 92627 16,992 ft 3.22 mi
SOUTH COAST BEHAVIORAL HEALTH 559 PIERPONT DRIVE COSTA MESA CA 92626 15,312 ft 2.9 mi
SOUTH COAST BEHAVIORAL HEALTH 3129 PIERCE AVE COSTA MESA CA 92660 6,389 ft 1.21 mi
CASA CAPRI LLC 671 GOVERNOR STREET COSTA MESA CA 92627 14,256 ft 2.7 mi
COMPASS RECOVERY, INC.3151 AIRWAY AVENUE F105-B COSTA MESA CA 92626 16,368 ft 3.1 mi
KKB HEALTH SOLUTIONS, LLC 2822 MONTEREY AVENUE COSTA MESA CA 92626 7,392 ft 1.4 mi
TEAGLE HALL LLC 316 HAMILTON STREET COSTA MESA CA 92627 13,728 ft 2.6 mi
TEAGLE HALL LLC 2136 THURIN STREET UNIT B COSTA MESA CA 92627 13,200 ft 2.5 mi
TEAGLE HALL LLC 395 VICTORIA STREET COSTA MESA CA 92627 12,144 ft 2.3 mi
TEAGLE HALL LLC 2136 THURIN STREET UNIT A COSTA MESA CA 92627 13,200 ft 2.5 mi
TEAGLE HALL LLC 2137 DOCTORS CIRCLE UNIT A COSTA MESA CA 92627 13,200 ft 2.5 mi
TEAGLE HALL LLC 2137 DOCTORS CIRCLE UNIT B COSTA MESA CA 92627 13,200 ft 2.5 mi
RECOVERY SOLUTIONS, LLC 209 E. 18TH STREET COSTA MESA CA 92627 15,312 ft 2.9 mi
JJLT HOLDINGS LLC 1799 HUMMINGBIRD DRIVE COSTA MESA CA 92626 7,920 ft 1.5 mi
EMBRACE TREATMENT LLC 1912 SUMBA CIRCLE COSTA MESA CA 92626 7,920 ft 1.5 mi
ELITE CARE, INC.930 MAGELLAN STREET COSTA MESA CA 92626 9,082 ft 1.72 mi
AKUA BEHAVIORAL HEALTH, INC.326 UNIVERSITY DRIVE COSTA MESA CA 92627 16,896 ft 3.2 mi
AKUA BEHAVIORAL HEALTH, INC.319- A UNIVERSITY DR.COSTA MESA CA 92627 16,896 ft 3.2 mi
AKUA BEHAVIORAL HEALTH, INC.319- B UNIVERSITY DR.COSTA MESA CA 92627 16,896 ft 3.2 mi
RISING ROADS RECOVERY SERVICES FOR WOMEN, LLC 3151 AIRWAY AVENUE SUITE I-3 COSTA MESA CA 92626 16,368 ft 3.1 mi
SAFE AND SOUND TREATMENT, LLC 3151 AIRWAY AVE L2 COSTA MESA CA 92626 16,368 ft 3.1 mi
BEACH CITIES RECOVERY LLC 440 FAIR DRIVE SUITE 237 COSTA MESA CA 92626 7,920 ft 1.5 mi
FRESH START RECOVERY SVCS 204 E 17TH STREET SUITE 203 COSTA MESA CA 92627 19,008 ft 3.6 mi
Substance Use Disorder Treatment Facilities
ATTACHMENT 3
-13-
FOOTPRINTS IN THE SAND 2 RECOVERY LLC 653 W. 19TH STREET COSTA MESA CA 92627 13,200 ft 2.5 mi
RENU HEALTHCARE, LLC 1008 W WILSON ST SUITE A COSTA MESA CA 92627 10,032 ft 1.9 mi
RENU HEALTHCARE, LLC 1008 W WILSON ST SUITE B COSTA MESA CA 92627 10,032 ft 1.9 mi
OASIS TREATMENT CENTERS, LLC 1901 NEWPORT BLVD SUITE 271 COSTA MESA CA 92627 19,008 ft 3.6 mi
AMLA FAMILY COUNSELING INC.2900 BRISTOL ST SUITE 320 COSTA MESA CA 92626 10,560 ft 2 mi
CHANGES MH LLC 2787 BRISTOL STREET COSTA MESA CA 92627 10,032 ft 1.9 mi
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Program Name Street Name City State Zip Project No.
Distance from 1601 Baker St
(Feet)
Distance from 1601 Baker St
(Miles)
Summit Coastal Living 165 E Wilson Street Costa Mesa CA 92627 PA-16-03 15,312 ft 2.9 mi
Summit Coastal Living 2041 Tustin Ave Costa Mesa CA 92627 PA-16-04 20,064 ft 3.8 mi
South Coast Behavioral Health 506 Traverse Drive Costa Mesa CA 92626 SL-15-0001 16,896 ft 3.2 mi
The Ohio House 862 Senate Street Costa Mesa CA 92627 SL-15-0002 14,784 ft 2.8 mi
Keystone Sober Living 2152 Raleigh Avenue Costa Mesa CA 92627 SL-15-0014 14,256 ft 2.7 mi
Breakaway Health Corp.492 Broadway Costa Mesa CA 92627 SL-15-0017 21,120 ft 4 mi
California Women's Recovery 2735 Cibola Avenue Costa Mesa CA 92626 SL-15-0018 9,504 ft 1.8 mi
Agape House 2879 Monterey Costa Mesa CA 92626 SL-15-0031 7,392 ft 1.4 mi
Republic House 2064 Republic Avenue Costa Mesa CA 92627 SL-15-0033 17,952 ft 3.4 mi
Providence Recovery 582 Pierpont Drive Costa Mesa CA 92626 SL-15-0038 15,312 ft 2.9 mi
Northbound Treatment Services 331 16th Place Costa Mesa CA 92627 SL-16-0004 21,120 ft 4 mi
South Coast Counseling, Inc.693 Plumer Street Costa Mesa CA 92627 ZE-81-87 13,728 ft 2.6 mi
First Step House / Mcmillen House 2015 Charle Street Costa Mesa CA 92627 PA-91-93 11,616 ft 2.2 mi
The Joshua House, National Therapeutic Services 209-211 E 18th Street Costa Mesa CA 92627 PA-87-166 15,312 ft 2.9 mi
First Step House 2025 Charle Street Costa Mesa CA 92627 PA-95-14 11,616 ft 2.2 mi
Nancy Clark and Associates, Inc.1110 Victoria Street Costa Mesa CA 92627 PA-97-36 11,616 ft 2.2 mi
City Approved Sober Living/Group Homes
ATTACHMENT 4
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August 26, 2024
Re: Special Use Permit for Sober Living
To: The City of Costa Mesa
1.
i.The residence at 1601 Baker St. Costa Mesa, CA 92626 is owned by George
Vilagut, who currently resides at . Phone number
California Driver License number
ii.Stephouse Recovery, Inc is a corporation.
a.George Vilagut is the sole owner, there are no partners
b.George Vilagut maintains controlling interest in the corporation
c.Please see Exhibits A and A-1 for the Board of Directors resolution
designating George Vilagut as the permit holder.
iii.Please see Exhibit B for the permit and licenses history for Stephouse Recovery.
iv.The House Manager is Zachary Place who currently resides at 1601 Baker
Street. His phone number is , California Driver’s License
number . Zach passed his background screening with the Orange
County Sheriff's Department. All Stephouse employees and volunteers must be
screened by the OC Sheriff's Department prior to hire date. He will reside at the
Sober Living Residence 7 days a week, 24 hours a day and will be responsible
for the daily operations of the home.
Please note that Stephouse Recovery has provided a copy of our Policies and
Procedures manual in its entirety. In addition, we have provided EXHIBIT C, which
contains only the policies requested for the SUP.
v.Good Neighbor Policy – please see Exhibit C, Stephouse Recovery Policies for
SUP, page 1.
vi.Intake Procedure - please see Exhibit C, Stephouse Recovery Policies for SUP,
page 2.
vii.Relapse Policy - please see Exhibit C, Stephouse Recovery Policies for SUP,
page 2.
viii.Affirmation by Owner – please see Exhibit D
ATTACHMENT 5
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ix.Intake Packet -please see Exhibit E. The packet contains all blank forms that
residents are required to sign during the intake process
x.The application processing fee was paid on June 27, 2024.
2.Stephouse Recovery Inc. is requesting a Special Use Permit (SUP) from the City of
Costa Mesa to establish a Sober Living Residence at 1601 Baker St. Costa Mesa, CA
92626. It is proposed that the Sober Living Residence house six (6) recovery residents
and one full time house manager. The facility will only be available to approved
residents, and never open to the public. Visitors are not permitted at Stephouse
Recovery homes. The Executive Director and Compliance Officer for Stephouse provide
support and management to the house manager. Stephouse Recovery is contracted
with the Orange County Health Care Agency (OCHCA) and is subject to their active
oversight and governance. Stephouse Recovery is also inspected and certified annually
by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. Due to a severe shortage of sober living
beds, Stephouse Recovery seeks to add the Baker residence to assist OCHCA in
meeting the needs of the community. We propose that obtaining this Special Use Permit
and opening the Baker residence will have no negative impact on the neighborhood.
Stephouse Recovery successfully operates several sober living facilities in Orange
County and maintains positive and harmonious relationships with all neighbors.
3.The Baker property does not have an accessory secondary unit on site. Residents shall
live in the only home on the property.
4.The house manager will reside at the residence providing round-the-clock supervision
and oversee daily operations. The house manager is also responsible for monitoring
residents and ensuring they are safe and adhere to all rules and regulations.
5.The Baker property allows for five (5) vehicles to be parked on site. Two (2) garage
spaces and three (3) driveway spaces. Please see the Motor Vehicle Policy, page 2,
Exhibit C, for additional information on how Stephouse Recovery meets this
requirement.
6.Stephouse does not provide supervised care, counseling, treatment, or recovery
planning. Residents must be capable of living independently. Stephouse Recovery’s
target population includes adult women and men who are transitioning from substance
abuse treatment to mainstream living.
7.The Baker property is not an integral group home facility. This statement is included in
the Affirmation by Owner, Exhibit D.
8.Not Applicable – the Sober Living Home operator is also the property owner.
9.Stephouse Recovery is prepared to meet this requirement upon physical inspection by
the City of Costa Mesa.
10.Please see Stephouse Recovery’s Discharge/Termination Policy, page 3 of EXHIBIT C.
i.Stephouse Recovery Staff will notify a residents emergency contact of
termination only in the event of an emergency and/or if the resident has signed a
release of information allowing us to share such information. Otherwise, an
emergency contact will only be notified in the event of an actual emergency.
ii.Because Stephouse Recovery contracts with the OC HCA, we are required to
notify the county when a resident is discharged without completion. Each
resident is assigned a case manager by the county who facilitates next steps for
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the individual. In most situations of relapse and/or mental health crisis,
Stephouse Recovery will transport the individual to College Hospital or Be Well
Orange Campus. At times the resident must be transported via ambulance.
iii. Due to HIPAA and County Regulations, Stephouse Recovery would not be able
to notify any other agency of a resident’s status without a signed release of
information. However, Stephouse Recovery does provide housing resources for
residents at intake and if necessary, will assist a resident in securing temporary
housing at discharge.
iv. Residents are notified of Stephouse Recovery’s Discharge Policy and available
resources at intake. An acknowledgement form for their initial and signature is
included in the intake packet. Stephouse will include the City form for discharged
Baker residents.
v. Stephouse Recovery will ensure that we follow steps i through iv as outlined
above if a resident’s behavior or relapse requires immediate termination of
residency.
11. Please see Stephouse Recovery’s Discharge Procedures for Staff, page 4, EXHIBIT C,
that outlines how Stephouse follows this requirement.
12. Please see Stephouse Recovery’s Records Management and Maintenance Policy, page
5, EXHIBIT C, and Record’s Retention Policy, page 6, EXHIBIT C.
13. Please see Stephouse Recovery’s Transportation Policy, page 7, EXHIBIT C.
14. Additional Regulations:
i. Stephouse Recovery is not aware of any other sober living home, or a state
licensed alcoholism or drug abuse recovery or treatment facility located within
650 feet, as measured from the closest property lines.
ii. OC HCA requires that all residents attend an Orange County approved Intensive
Outpatient Treatment Program (IOP), and sobriety support meetings (such as
Alcoholics Anonymous) while living at the residence. Residents are required to
provide a letter of enrollment in IOP within one week of being admitted to Sober
Living. Residents are required to turn in a meeting log every Sunday listing all
meetings attended for the week and initialed by the facilitator or counselor who
ran the meeting. Residents are also asked to sign a release of information so
that Stephouse may check in with meeting facilitators and counselors to confirm
attendance.
iii. Stephouse Recovery policies and procedures state zero tolerance for drug and
alcohol throughout. The Drug/Alcohol Policy, page 7, EXHIBIT C, specifically
addresses prohibition of drugs and alcohol use, distribution, and/or possession.
The Drug/Alcohol Policy is posted at every Sober Living Home.
iv. Please see Stephouse Recovery’s Denied Admission Policy page 7, EXHIBIT C,
stating our procedures for registered sex offenders.
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v. Stephouse Recovery has a strict “no visitors” policy. A “No Visitors Allow” sign is
posted at the residence and the house manager enforces this policy. Please see
Exhibit C, Stephouse Recovery Policies for SUP, page 8, for the Visitation Policy.
vi. Please see Exhibit C, Stephouse Recovery Policies for SUP, page 1, for the
Good Neighbor Policy.
vii. Stephouse Recovery Sober Living Homes do not provide individual or group
counseling, treatment of any kind, or recovery planning. Residents are referred to
outside agencies for these services.
15. House Dimensions and Floor Plan
i. A site plan is not required for this project.
ii. The Baker residence is a 2200 square foot single family residence. Please see
EXHIBIT F for:
a. Room layouts and dimensions.
b. Room labels
c. Location of walls, doors, and windows
iii. Please see EXHIBIT G for exterior images of the Baker property.
16. Modifications to the applicant letter:
a. Provide operation characteristics of the facility including proposed number of
employees, residents, hours of operation, hours of operation for front
door/garage doors being open to the public.
As previously stated, the Baker house will be a Sober Living Residence that
houses up to six (6) recovery residents and one full time house manager. There are
no hours of operation as at no time will the residence be open to the public.
Support staff for the house manager include the Office Administrator, Executive
Director, and Compliance Officer. Stephouse Recovery is contracted with the Orange
County Health Care Agency (OCHCA) Residential Recovery Services program and
is subject to their active oversight and governance. The County allows participants
to stay in sober living for 120 days. At the end of the 120 days, residents are
expected to have obtained employment and stable housing. Stephouse Recovery is
required to document and report to the County each resident’s progress with these
goals at the end of every month. Stephouse conducts weekly drug and alcohol
screenings. Drugs screenings are reported to OCHCA at the end of every month.
Depending upon the circumstances of a resident’s relapse, they could be put on a
behavior contract, or immediately discharged. The County monitors our outcomes.
b. Provide details on the specific services or programs that will be offered to
support residents in their recovery.
The Baker house will be an extension of the OCHCA Residential Recovery
Services Program. Stephouse does not offer specific services or programs. Rather
we provide a safe independent living environment that supports sobriety by
promoting a sense of community and accountability. Residents are held accountable
to attending regular support meetings, outpatient treatment, and forming a plan for
employment, and future stable housing.
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c. Clarify how the facility will handle conflicts or issues between residents to
maintain a positive living environment.
The house manager is trained in de-escalation techniques to assist him in
mediating conflicts between residents. At orientation, residents are informed they
must treat each other with respect and that aggressive behaviors, yelling, and
fighting will result in a behavior contract and/or immediate discharge. When
residents struggle to get along, a Stephouse Administrator will call a house meeting
to discuss issues and facilitate compromise among those in conflict. Facilitating
open communication between residents has been very helpful with ensuring
harmony in the residence.
d. Identify the training and qualifications of the staff or house managers
overseeing the residence.
The house manager is required to have at least one year of sobriety and may not
be on parole or probation. The house manager is required to attend several training
sessions provided by OCHCA and Stephouse Recovery that must be completed
within 30 days of hire, and annually thereafter. Trainings include:
• Annual Provider Training
• Cultural Competency Training
• Crisis Intervention Training (situational awareness & de-escalation
techniques)
• Infectious Disease Recognition Training
• CPR certification
• Recognizing physical & psychiatric symptoms (to know when
residents need a higher level of care)
• HIPPA, Privacy and Confidentiality Training
• Naloxone Administration Training
e. Describe the procedures in place for ensuring that residents adhere to the
facility's rules, especially regarding substance use and participation in
recovery programs.
Residents receive random weekly drug and alcohol screening to ensure
continued sobriety. Residents are required to turn in a meeting log every Sunday
listing all meetings attended for the week. Log entries must be initialed by the
facilitator or counselor who ran the meeting. Residents are also asked to sign a
release of information so that Stephouse may check in with meeting facilitators and
counselors to confirm attendance. At times, the resident will authorize their meeting
places to contact Stephouse if they have been absent from their recovery programs.
Because a big part of the OC Residential Recovery Program is to ensure residents
are employed, volunteering, or attending school, Stephouse provides a computer,
printer and internet access with job hunting and resume writing resources, as well as
connections to organizations seeking volunteers. Unemployed residents are required
to provide proof that they have applied for work and completed volunteer hours. If
they are working, Stephouse will periodically request copies of paystubs. Students
must provide confirmation of enrollment, and their school schedule. Stephouse
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Recovery is required to report our employment and housing outcomes to OCHCA
monthly.
f. Explain how the sober living home will communicate and engage with the local
community and address any concerns or feedback from neighbors.
StepHouse Recovery provides contact information of our managerial staff to the
bordering neighbors (located behind, to the left, to the right, as well as across the
street of each recovery residence). We provide bordering neighbors with an
"Introductory Letter" informing them of our presence in the community and our
mission and efforts to help those in recovery make their fresh start in a safe and
sober environment. "Introductory Letters" also include the contact information for our
County Program Officers so that neighbors may can reach out to them should they
feel Management is not addressing their concerns. Should a neighbor contact a
house manager with a complaint regarding our home or its occupants, it is the
responsibility of the house manager to pass this information to Management
immediately, failure to do so will result in a written warning. Management will respond
to the complaint within 24 hours to let the concerned neighbor know that the
complaint was received and that we are investigating the situation. The complainant
will receive a follow up call once an investigation is complete. Please see Stephouse
Recovery Good Neighbor Policy and EXHIBIT H -Introductory Letter to Neighbors,
for more information.
g. Outline the process for screening and selecting residents to ensure suitability
for the sober living environment.
Residents are pre-screened by the OCHCA Gatekeeper prior to referral to a
Stephouse Residence. Stephouse Recovery then screens all referrals at time of
intake. Criteria to qualify for enrollment includes
• A willingness to continue sobriety
• Abstinence from drugs and alcohol for at least one month prior to admittance
• Successful completion of a detox and treatment program.
• No one who is under the influence or displaying questionable or dangerous
behaviors will be admitted to Stephouse Recovery. OCHCA requires that
staff are trained in Recognizing Symptoms Requiring Appropriate Referral.
Should a referral be denied admission, the person will be referred back to the OC HCA
Gatekeeper for appropriate placement. Residents must be gainfully employed or
enrolled in school as a condition of their residency. Residents must also be capable of
living independently.
h. Provide information on how the facility will ensure that residents have access
to necessary medical and psychological support services.
Stephouse residents are provided outpatient treatment for mental health and
substance abuse through OCHCA. Because they are part of a county program,
residents are Medi-Cal eligible. Stephouse ensures that residents understand the
Medi-Cal services they are eligible for, that they have their Medi-Cal card and where
they can go for medical treatment, and pharmacy needs.
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i. Clarify the measures in place to ensure compliance with the city’s parking and
traffic regulations, particularly for visitors and staff vehicles.
Residents are notified of parking and pickup/drop off rules when they intake.
Stephouse has two (2) garage parking spaces, and (3) driveway spaces for the
house manager and residents. This will leave a possible need for two (2) vehicles to
be parked in front of the residence. However, it is rare for more than two (2)
residents to have a vehicle at any given time. Stephouse residents are not allowed
to have visitors.
j. Identify the facility’s emergency response plan and procedures for handling
situations such as medical emergencies or behavioral issues.
In the event of an emergency, residents and staff are directed to call 911 to
dispatch emergency personnel. The house manager will notify the Executive Director
of the situation and discuss next steps depending upon the circumstances. Please
see the Stephouse Recovery Emergency Response Plan, page 7, EXHIBIT C, for
more information. While the house manager is training in crisis intervention/de-
escalation, the police will be summoned should a resident’s behavior become over
aggressive, or dangerous.
k. Describe how the sober living home will ensure transparent operations and
regular reviews for compliance with all applicable regulations and city
standards.
Stephouse Recovery has developed and regularly updates strict operating
policies for residents and staff. Monitoring curfews, completing regular random drug
and alcohol screenings, and nightly bed checks facilitate Stephouse’s attention to
compliance with County and City regulations and standards. Stephouse has an
open-door policy with law enforcement, county program officers, and code
enforcement. Stephouse is subject to annual County chart audits, site visits, contract
audits, and inspections by the OC Sheriff’s Department. Every resident can file a
complaint or grievance with County Program Officers. These complaints are
anonymous and promptly investigated.
l. Describe the facility’s strategy for maintaining a clean and safe environment,
including regular inspections and maintenance procedures.
Stephouse is subject to annual County chart audits, site visits, contract audits, and
inspections by the OC Sheriff’s Department. We employ a gardening and
landscaping company to maintain the yards and plants at each residence. We also
employ a full-time maintenance person to address needed repairs, pest control, and
other necessary updates to the properties. Stephouse Recovery requires that
residents participate in keeping the residence and property clean and safe by
assigning weekly household chores.
m. Identify any additional resources or amenities that will be offered to residents
to support their daily living and overall well-being, such as job training or life
skills workshops.
Stephouse Recovery provides a computer, printer, and WiFi to assist residents in
securing employment and searching for stable housing. We do not provide other
skill building or workshops because the residents receive this type of support through
their weekly IOP provider meetings. Our primary goal is to provide a safe, sober
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SPECIAL USE PERMIT APPLICATION
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page
EXHIBIT A -Stephouse Recovery Resolution 150 2
EXHIBIT A1- Resolution 150 Certification 3
EXHIBIT B Permit History for Stephouse Recovery (includes permits, licenses) 4
EXHIBIT C Stephouse Recovery Policies for SUP 11
Good Neighbor Policy 11
Intake Policy & Procedure 12
Client Relapse Policy 12
Motor Vehicle Policy 12
Discharge/Termination Policy 13
Discharge Procedures for Staff 14
Records Management & Maintenance 15
Record Retention Policy 16
Transportation Policy 17
Drugs/Alcohol Policy 17
Denied Admission Policy 17
Emergency Response Plan 17
Visitation Policy 18
EXHIBIT D Affirmation of Resident Disability Status & Integral Use 19
EXHIBIT E Facility Intake Packet for Residents Signature 20
EXHIBIT H Introductory Letter to the Neighborhood 59
Please note that EXHIBITS F & G were uploaded to the portal separately.
A copy of the full Policies and Procedures Manual for Stephouse Recovery is
available upon request.
1-24-
EXHIBIT A
2-25-
EXHIBIT A-1
3-26-
Permit History for Stephouse Recovery
Stephouse Recovery began providing detox, treatment, and recovery services in Fountain Valley in
2011.
Stephouse was licensed by the State of California Department of Health Care Services, with
the license set to expire in May of 2023. Stephouse was also accredited through The Joint
Commissions.
However, due to operating challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and a
decline in claim reimbursements from insurance companies, Stephouse made the difficult
decision to discontinue treatment and detox services. In early 2022, Stephouse notified the State of
their decision and relinquished DHCS licenses for all their facilities.
Existing treatment centers
became recovery sober living homes only.
In 2019, Stephouse Recovery was awarded a contract
with Orange County Health Care Agency’s Residential Recovery Services Program.
Under that
contract, Stephouse is required to have a business license from every city in which they operate.
Each residence is also required to be inspected and certified annually by the Orange County
Sheriff’s Department.
Stephouse Recovery has been in good standing with the City of Fountain Valley for many years and
has current business licenses for two sober living homes in that city.
Fountain Valley recently voted
to require special use permits for Sober Living Homes. Stephouse has complied, and an application
was submitted to the city in early June 2024.
The city is currently processing that application.
In
2023, Stephouse opened a Sober Living Home in Huntington Beach and was granted a special use
permit.
Stephouse remains in good standing with the City of Huntington Beach.
The following pages of this narrative include current business licenses, permits, and OC Sheriff
certifications for your review.
EXHIBIT B
4-27-
TO BE POSTED IN A CONSPICUOUS PLACE AND
NOT TRANSFERABLE OR ASSIGNABLE.
Business Name
Business Location
Business Owner(s)
Business License Number
Effective Date
Description
Expiration Date
CITY OF FOUNTAIN VALLEY
BUSINESS LICENSE CERTIFICATE
17981 Los Tiempos St
Fountain Valley, Ca 92708-6021
ADDICTION TREATMENT
CENTER
GEORGE VILAGUT
THE STEPHOUSE RECOVERY, INC.
17981 LOS TIEMPOS ST
FOUNTAIN VALLEY, CA 92708-6021
For all inquiries regarding this license, contact HdL
Business License Division at (714) 855-3982.
"For Services Provided in the City of Fountain Valley, California Only"
GEORGE VILAGUT
Business TypeTHE STEPHOUSE RECOVERY, INC.Professional &
Semi-Professional
November 01, 2023
October 31, 2024
00017256
THE STEPHOUSE RECOVERY, INC.:
Thank you for your payment on your City of Fountain Valley Business License. ALL CERTIFICATES MUST BE AVAILABLE FOR
INSPECTION UPON REQUEST. If you have questions concerning your business license, contact the Business Support Center
via email at: FountainValley@hdlgov.com or by telephone at: (714) 855-3982.
Keep this portion for your license separate in case you need a replacement for any lost, stolen, or destroyed license. A fee
may be charged for a replacement or duplicate license.
Starting January 1, 2021, Assembly Bill 1607 requires the prevention of gender-based discrimination of business
establishments. A full notice is available in English or other languages by going to: https://www.dca.ca.gov/publications/
City of Fountain Valley
BUSINESS LICENSE CERTIFICATE
BUSINESS LICENSING
8839 N CEDAR AVE #212
FRESNO, CA 93720-1832
Date of Issue:11/01/2023
00017256License Number: GEORGE VILAGUT
THE STEPHOUSE RECOVERY, INC.
17981 LOS TIEMPOS ST
FOUNTAIN VALLEY, CA 92708-6021
State License Number
State Sellers Permit Number
5-28-
6-29-
TO BE POSTED IN A CONSPICUOUS PLACE AND
NOT TRANSFERABLE OR ASSIGNABLE.
Business Name
Business Location
Business Owner(s)
Business License Number
Effective Date
Description
Expiration Date
CITY OF FOUNTAIN VALLEY
BUSINESS LICENSE CERTIFICATE
9679 Ellis Ave
Fountain Valley, Ca 92708-6628
ADDICTION TREATMENT
CENTER
GEORGE VILAGUT
THE STEPHOUSE RECOVERY, INC.
9679 ELLIS AVE
FOUNTAIN VALLEY, CA 92708-6628
For all inquiries regarding this license, contact HdL
Business License Division at (714) 855-3982.
"For Services Provided in the City of Fountain Valley, California Only"
GEORGE VILLAGUT
Business TypeTHE STEPHOUSE RECOVERY, INC.
Service- Personal Care
March 01, 2024
February 28, 2025
00031853
THE STEPHOUSE RECOVERY, INC.:
Thank you for your payment on your City of Fountain Valley Business License. ALL CERTIFICATES MUST BE AVAILABLE FOR
INSPECTION UPON REQUEST. If you have questions concerning your business license, contact the Business Support Center
via email at: FountainValley@hdlgov.com or by telephone at: (714) 855-3982.
Keep this portion for your license separate in case you need a replacement for any lost, stolen, or destroyed license. A fee
may be charged for a replacement or duplicate license.
Starting January 1, 2021, Assembly Bill 1607 requires the prevention of gender-based discrimination of business
establishments. A full notice is available in English or other languages by going to: https://www.dca.ca.gov/publications/
City of Fountain Valley
BUSINESS LICENSE CERTIFICATE
BUSINESS LICENSING
8839 N CEDAR AVE #212
FRESNO, CA 93720-1832
Date of Issue:03/01/2024
00031853License Number: GEORGE VILAGUT
THE STEPHOUSE RECOVERY, INC.
9679 ELLIS AVE
FOUNTAIN VALLEY, CA 92708-6628
State License Number
State Sellers Permit Number
7-30-
8-31-
CITY OF HUNTINGTON BEACH
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
PLANNING ⧫ BUILDING ⧫ PERMIT CENTER ⧫ ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ⧫ HOUSING ⧫ CODE ENFORCEMENT
2000 Main Street ⧫ Huntington Beach CA 92648-2702 ⧫ www.huntingtonbeachca.gov
NOTICE OF ACTION
October 24, 2023
George Vilagut
356 5th Street
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
APPLICATION: SPECIAL USE PERMIT NO. SUP-2023-002
FACILITY OWNER/
OPERATOR:
George Vilagut, 356 5th Street, Huntington Beach CA 92648
PROPERTY OWNER: George Vilagut, 356 5th Street, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
REQUEST: To operate a Sober Living Home serving six or fewer residents.
FACILITY LOCATION: 8422 Polder Circle, Huntington Beach, CA 92647
DATE OF ACTION: October 24, 2023
On Tuesday, October 24, 2023, the Community Development Department of the City of Huntington Beach
took action on your application and approved your permit. The operation of the subject sober living home is
subject to the requirements listed in the Huntington Beach Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance (HBZSO),
Section 230.28. This Special Use Permit may not be transferred to any other person or entity. Failure to
comply with the requirements listed in Section 230.28 of the HBZSO may result in the revocation of this
permit.
If you have any questions regarding this Notice of Action letter or the processing of your application, please
contact Madalyn Welch, the city contact, at (714) 374-5353 or via email at madalyn.welch@surfcity-hb.org or
the Department of Community Development at (714) 536-5271.
Sincerely,
Ursula Luna-Reynosa
Community Development Director
By:
Madalyn Welch
Associate Planner
9-32-
10-33-
EXHIBIT C
Stephouse Recovery Policies for SUP
GOOD NEIGHBOR POLICY
A top priority for StepHouse Recovery is to ensure that the occupants of our homes are considerate of
the neighbors and respectful of the neighborhoods in which they reside. The following protocol should
always be followed by clients and staff to ensure that the community and StepHouse Recovery
maintain a healthy relationship.
StepHouse Recovery provides contact information of our managerial staff to the bordering neighbors
(located behind, to the left, to the right, as well as across the street of each recovery residence). We
provide bordering neighbors with an "Introductory Letter" informing them of our presence in the
community and our mission and efforts to help those in recovery make their fresh start in a safe and
sober environment. "Introductory Letters" can be requested from staff.
Should a neighbor contact a house manager with a complaint regarding our home or its occupants, it is
the responsibility of the house manager to pass this information to Management immediately, failure to
do so will result in a written warning. Management will respond to the complaint within 12 hours to let
the concerned neighbor know that the complaint was received, and we will investigate and address the
issue as the situation warrants.
To maintain a clean presentation of the house and grounds, gardening will take place bi-weekly by a
paid landscaping company. Management will also conduct outside maintenance as needed. Clients
may not leave personal belongings, bicycles, trash, or other disposed of items at the front of the house.
A monthly checkup by the Director will be made, and the current condition of the home and its grounds
will be documented.
Clients are required to abide by the StepHouse Recovery House Rules. Clients are expected to
maintain an appropriate noise level and always behave appropriately.
Smoking and vaping are permitted only in designated areas (posted) as outlined in the house rules.
Cigarettes are to be disposed of in an appropriate manner. Clients are expected to maintain a clean
environment and never litter. Staff and clients are responsible for setting trash cans out on the curb and
bringing them in on the assigned trash day.
Contact Information:
Stephouse Recovery
(888) 923-7623
info@stephouserecovery.com
Orange County Healthcare Agency
Monica Curran
mcurran@ochca.com
(714) 834-2488
or
Monica Cabral
MoCabral@ochca.com
(714) 834-2027
11-34-
INTAKE POLICY AND PROCEDURE
Admission Criteria
Stephouse Recovery must receive an email from the OCHCA gatekeeper. Once a client arrives,
we fax the Referral form back to HCA.
Intake means the initial face-to-face meeting between a Client and Stephouse Recovery staff in
which specific information about the Client is gathered, including waiver of confidentiality and other
required documents signed at the time of the Client's initial intake into the Recovery Residence
facility. This is completed to permit disclosure of designated information about the Client to HCA,
Treatment Provider, Courts, Orange County Probation Department, (OCPD), Parole Department,
Public Defender, and/or District Attorney.
Intake Prescreening Policy, Readmission, Intake and Discharge Criteria Policy and
Procedure
It is the policy of Stephouse Recovery to have every client goes through an intake process upon
arrival. It is the policy of Stephouse Recovery to maintain consistent Admission, Readmission, and
Intake Criteria.
*If a client is deemed to need a higher level of care, Stephouse Recovery will not accept the client
into the program and will refer the client back to OCHCA*
Procedure
All clients requesting admission are scheduled for an intake session with designated staff. The
staff will conduct a face-to-face interview and is responsible for the appropriate assessment
collected on the intake form and reviewed by the intake staff.
Criteria to qualify for enrollment includes
▪ A willingness to continue sobriety
▪ Abstinence from drugs and alcohol for at least one month prior to admittance
▪ Successful completion of a detox and treatment program.
▪ No one who is under the influence or displaying questionable or dangerous behaviors will
be admitted to Stephouse Recovery. OCHCA requires that staff are trained in
Recognizing Symptoms Requiring Appropriate Referral.
▪ Residents must be capable of living independently.
Should a referral be denied admission, the person will be referred back to the OC HCA
Gatekeeper for more appropriate placement.
During the intake process, the intake staff will perform the following functions:
▪ Review client rights
▪ Review Stephouse Recovery policies and procedures
▪ Obtain the consent and appropriate release of information
CLIENT RELAPSE POLICY
If a client relapses, staff will complete an incident report and notify the Program Monitor and the
client’s Probation Officer. Stephouse Recovery management will decide if the client can stay in the
program. If the client does stay in the program, he or she will be placed on a behavioral contract
with zero tolerance for any further violation of Stephouse rules. If the client does not stay in the
program, he or she will be referred by Stephouse to a different facility/program. Please see the
Discharge Policy and Procedure for additional actions for relapsed clients.
MOTOR VEHICLE (INCL. MOTORCYCLE) POLICY
● Clients driving a motor vehicle or motorcycle must possess and provide copies of a current
California Driver's License, proof of insurance, and registration.
● Clients are not allowed to ride in the car of another client or allow another client to drive their car.
● All vehicles must be insured and properly registered, and the client must have a valid driver's
license.
12-35-
● Auto repair on the premises is not permitted without prior management permission.
● Clients are allowed only the vehicle they are currently using, no additional vehicles are permitted.
Vehicles are a privilege that may be revoked at any time due to non-compliance with program
rules and expectations.
DISCHARGE/TERMINATION POLICY
Client has completed the program when they have used their maximum allotted time or reached their
goals for transition. Staff will complete a Discharge Form to document the circumstances of the client
leaving sober living. Clients are not required to sign the discharge form.
Failure to comply with StepHouse policies signed at intake may result in a written warning or
administrative termination from the program. Infractions will be documented in the client's record, and a
behavioral contract will accompany the written warning. The client's Probation/Parole Officer will be
notified of termination when applicable. In addition, there may be circumstances where law
enforcement may be called, and legal action taken against the client.
If a client discharges or is terminated from the program and does not collect personal belongings, the
items will be held for seven (7) days (excluding food products) and then discarded or donated to charity.
Clients terminated from the program must be sober before they enter StepHouse property.
Each client should receive a housing resource guide upon discharge. Stephouse Recovery will assist
discharged clients in securing safe, temporary shelter in the event of immediate discharge. Residents
who have relapsed and under the influence may be transported to Be Well Orange Campus or College
Hospital Costa Mesa.
Cause for Termination from the Program
● If a client needs a higher level of care than provided at StepHouse Recovery. The client will be
referred to OCHCA.
● The client has left the residence and no contact has been made after three (3) days (unless
other arrangements have been made)
● Theft of any kind. Theft may also result in legal proceedings.
● Threatening or dangerous behavior.
● Behavior that is not conducive to recovery. Unacceptable behavior includes but is not limited to
sexual activity on the premises, fighting, stealing, lying, etc.
● Confrontational behavior, harassment, and being a constant nuisance to other clients or staff.
● Continuous poor behavior and attitude toward staff or other clients.
● Positive results/refusal of urinalysis, breathalyzer, or any other drug test. Refusal to test is
equivalent to a POSITIVE test.
● DRUG/ALCOHOL AND/OR PARAPHERNALIA on the premises.
● Taking or possessing prescription drugs that are prescribed to someone else.
● Vandalism or other deliberate abuse of house property.
● Sexual harassment to residents, vendors, staff, or others.
● Violating the no-smoking policy.
● Leaving after curfew without permission.
● Illegal activities of any kind.
● Violence or threats of violence.
● Weapons possession.
● Failure to sign in/out when entering or leaving the residence. This may result in a written client
warning or discharge from the program as needed.
● Refusing to allow a search of personal belongings, room, or person.
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In addition, clients are required to maintain an appropriate noise level. Loud noises of any kind are
prohibited; please keep noises to a minimum. The first offense will result in a verbal warning and will be
documented in the client's record. Repeated violations may result in discharge from the program.
These causes for termination are not an exhaustive list. Stephouse Management reserves the right to
consider all circumstances, behaviors, issues, etc., for appropriate action. All terminations are up to the
staff’s discretion.
Once a client is discharged, they are not allowed to return to the facility except to retrieve personal
belongings. Arrangements to retrieve belongings should be made in advance with StepHouse Recovery
staff.
DISCHARGE PROCEDURES FOR STAFF
Procedure
A client has completed the program when they have used their maximum allotted time or reached their
goals for transition. However, when a client leaves Stephouse Recovery for any reason, the staff must
fax back the original Client Referral Form to the OCHCA Gatekeeper. The bottom portion of the form
must include the discharge date, complete or incomplete, and the reason for leaving.
Clients successfully completing the program should complete and sign an AB109 Discharge Plan form.
Staff should also complete the Stephouse Recovery Discharge Form to assist in reporting information
to OCHCA. No signature is required from clients who are terminated before completion.
Failure to comply with Stephouse policies signed at intake may result in a written warning or termination
from the program. Infractions will be documented in the client's record, and a behavioral contract will
accompany the written warning. If the client is terminated, the OCHA Gatekeeper will be notified
immediately via fax, and the OCHA Program Officer will be notified by email. When applicable, the
client's Probation Officer and/or emergency contact will also be notified.
Housing Resources shall be provided to clients regardless of completion status. In the case of
homelessness, the appropriate city agency will be contacted to determine if services are available for
the client. Should transportation to treatment or a shelter be necessary, Stephouse will provide.
In addition, there may be circumstances where law enforcement may be called, and legal action taken
against the client.
If a client discharges from the program and does not collect personal belongings, the items will be held
for seven (7) days (excluding food products) and then discarded or donated to charity. Clients
terminated from the program must be sober before they enter Stephouse property.
Each client should receive a housing resource guide upon discharge.
Cause for Discharge Criteria
• If a client needs a higher level of care.
• The client has not returned, and no contact has been made after three (3) days.
• Theft of any kind. Theft may also result in legal proceedings.
• Threatening or dangerous behavior.
• Behavior that is not conducive to recovery. Unacceptable behavior includes but is not limited to
sexual activity on the premises, fighting, stealing, lying, etc.
• Confrontational behavior, harassment, and being a constant nuisance to other clients or staff.
• Continuous poor behavior and attitude toward staff or other clients.
• Positive results/refusal of urinalysis, breathalyzer, or any other drug test. Refusal to test is
equivalent to a POSITIVE test.
• DRUG/ALCOHOL AND/OR PARAPHERNALIA on the premises.
• Taking or possessing prescription drugs that are prescribed to someone else.
• Vandalism or other deliberate abuse of house property.
• Sexual harassment to residents, vendors, staff, or others.
• Violating the no-smoking policy.
• Leaving after curfew without permission.
• Illegal activities of any kind.
14-37-
• Violence or threats of violence.
• Weapons possession.
• Failure to sign in/out when entering or leaving the residence. This may result in a written client
warning or discharge from the program as needed.
• Refusing to allow a search of personal belongings, room, or person.
In addition, clients are required to maintain an appropriate noise level. Loud noises of any kind are
prohibited; please keep noises to a minimum. The first offense will result in a verbal warning and will be
documented in the client's record. Repeated violations may result in discharge from the program.
These causes for termination are not an exhaustive list. Stephouse Management reserves the right to
consider all circumstances, behaviors, issues, etc., for appropriate action. All terminations are up to the
staff’s discretion.
Once a client is discharged, they are not allowed to return to the facility except to retrieve personal
belongings. Arrangements to retrieve belongings should be made in advance with Stephouse
Recovery staff.
RECORDS MANAGEMENT AND MAINTENANCE
A. Stephouse Recovery, its officers, agents, employees, and sub-contractors shall, throughout
the term of the Contract Agreement, prepare, maintain, and manage records appropriate
to the services provided and in accordance with the Agreement and all applicable
requirements.
1. Stephouse Recovery shall maintain records that are adequate to substantiate the
services for which claims are submitted for reimbursement under the Agreement and
the charges thereto. Such records shall include, but not be limited to, individual
patient charts and utilization review records.
2. Stephouse Recovery shall keep and maintain records that include referral and intake
documents, client identification, insurance information and authorizations to share
information. Additional records include client drug screening, and supporting logs as
required by OCHCA.
3. Stephouse Recovery shall maintain books, records, documents, accounting procedures
and practices, and other evidence sufficient to reflect properly all direct and indirect
cost of whatever nature claimed to have been incurred in the performance of the
Agreement and in accordance with Medicare principles of reimbursement and GAAP.
4. Stephouse Recovery shall ensure the maintenance of medical records required by
§70747 through and including §70751 of the CCR, as they exist now or may hereafter
be amended, the medical necessity of the service, and the quality of care provided.
Records shall be maintained in accordance with §51476 of Title 22 of the CCR, as it
exists now or may hereafter be amended.
B. Access to client records and information is restricted by job title, individual need to know or need
to complete job duties and contract requirements. Non-routine access to client records must be
approved by Stephouse Director or Compliance Officer. These include, but are not limited to the
following:
1. Research
2. Subpoena
3. Court Orders
4. Mandatory Reporting
5. Accreditation Surveys
6. Law Enforcement
7. Government Agencies
C. Stephouse Recovery shall implement and maintain administrative, technical, and physical
safeguards to ensure the privacy of PHI and prevent the intentional or unintentional use
or disclosure of PHI in violation of the HIPAA, federal, and state regulations. Stephouse
Recovery shall mitigate to the extent practicable, the known harmful effect of any use or
15-38-
disclosure of PHI made in violation of federal or state regulations and/or OCHCA policies.
D. Stephouse Recovery participant, client, and/or patient records shall be maintained securely.
Stephouse Recovery shall maintain participant, client, and/or patient records and has
established and implements written record management procedures.
E. Stephouse Recovery shall retain all financial records for a minimum of ten (10) years from the
termination of the Agreement unless a longer period is required due to legal proceedings such
as litigations and/or settlement of claims.
E. Stephouse Recovery shall retain all client and/or patient medical records for ten (10) years
following discharge of the participant, client, and/or patient.
F. Stephouse Recovery shall make records pertaining to the costs of services, participant fees,
charges, billings, and revenues available at one (1) location within the limits of the OCHCA of
Orange. If Stephouse Recovery is unable to meet the record location criteria above, OCHCA
may provide written approval to Stephouse Recovery to maintain records in a single location,
identified by Stephouse Recovery.
G. Stephouse Recovery shall notify OCHCA of any PRA requests related to, or arising out of, this
Agreement, within forty-eight (48) hours. Stephouse Recovery shall provide OCHCA all
information that is requested by the PRA request.
H. Stephouse Recovery shall ensure all HIPAA DRS requirements are met. HIPAA requires that
clients, participants and/or patients be provided the right to access or receive a copy of their
DRS and/or request an addendum to their records. Title 45 CFR §164.501, defines DRS as a
group of records maintained by or for a covered entity that is:
1. Medical and billing records about individuals maintained by or for a covered healthcare
provider.
2. The enrollment, payment, claims adjudication, and case or medical management
record systems maintained by or for a health plan; or
3. Used, in whole or in part, by or for the covered entity to make decisions about individuals.
I. Stephouse Recovery may retain client, and/or patient documentation electronically in
accordance with the terms of this Agreement and common business practices. If
documentation is retained electronically, Stephouse Recovery shall, in the event of an
audit or site visit:
1. Have documents readily available within twenty-four (24) hour notice of a scheduled
audit or site visit.
2. Provide auditor or other authorized individuals access to documents via a computer
terminal.
3. Provide the auditor or other authorized individuals with a hardcopy printout of
documents, if requested.
J. Stephouse Recovery shall ensure compliance with requirements pertaining to the privacy
and security of PII and/or PHI. Stephouse Recovery shall, upon discovery of a Breach of
privacy and/or security of PII and/or PHI by Stephouse Recovery, notify federal and/or
state authorities as required by law or regulation, and copy OCHCA on such notifications.
K. Stephouse Recovery may be required to pay any costs associated with a Breach of
privacy and/or security of PII and/or PHI, including but not limited to the costs of
notification. Stephouse Recovery shall pay any and all such costs arising out of a Breach of
privacy and/or security of PII and/or PHI.
L. Stephouse Recovery shall make records pertaining to the costs of services, patient fees,
charges, billings, and revenues available at one (1) location within the limits of the
OCHCA of Orange.
RECORD RETENTION POLICY
Following a discharge, Stephouse Recovery shall retain all participant, client, and patient medical
records for ten (10) years, except non-emancipated minors for whom records must be kept for at least
one (1) year after such children have reached the age of eighteen (18) years, or for ten (10) years after
the last date of service, whichever is longer. This information will also include dates of the client's entry
and completion or termination from the facility, including the circumstances of their discharge.
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TRANSPORTATION POLICY
StepHouse Recovery shall arrange for transportation via bus vouchers, as necessary. StepHouse
Recovery will also provide information regarding public transportation, how to obtain a bus pass,
bus schedules, etc.
If the client owns and operates a vehicle, StepHouse Recovery shall do its best to accommodate
the vehicle in accordance with federal, state, and county rules and regulations. StepHouse
Recovery is not responsible for transportation via clients’ cars. Choosing to ride in the car of
another client or allow another client to drive your car is strongly discouraged and is done at your
own risk. Clients are not permitted to drive or operate StepHouse Recovery vehicles.
Clients can also use the service Veyo for non-emergency medical transportation. This service can
be used for doctor’s appointments, meetings, therapy, etc. Call the number 1-833-648-7528 and
mention that you are a client at StepHouse Recovery.
All drivers of vehicles who are picking up or dropping off Stephouse Recovery clients must drive
currently registered vehicles and hold a current driver’s license. Drivers may not impede residential
traffic or block driveways and must obey all traffic laws.
DRUG/ALCOHOL POLICY
Alcohol, illegal drugs, or non-prescribed drug use, distribution, and/or possession are strictly prohibited.
Cough syrup or mouthwash with alcohol content is prohibited. A client must have total abstinence from
any mind/mood-altering chemicals and/or drugs.
No paraphernalia (syringes, papers, pipes, spoons, etc.) associated with drugs on-premises.
No association with any active drug or alcohol offender(s), nor frequent places where drugs are sold,
used, or are accessible.
Any infraction may result in the client being put on a standout*, behavioral contract, or discharged.
(*Standout- A specified number of days when a client is banned from the house).
DENIED ADMISSION POLICY
If a client is deemed to need a higher level of care, Stephouse Recovery has the discretion not to accept
the client into the program and will refer the client back to OCHCA.
A client can be denied admission by Stephouse Recovery for felonious sex crimes, arson, or other
violent felonies.
If a client has a positive drug test at admission, Stephouse Recovery has the discretion to not accept the
client into the program and will refer the client back to OCHCA.
Stephouse Recovery complies with all State and Local laws and penal codes regarding registered sex
offenders. A referral may be denied admission if the offender does not meet the legal requirements.
EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN
Call 911 in the event of:
1. Fire
2. Violence or a threat of violence
3. Suspicious persons hanging around premises
4. Burglary
5. A life-threatening medical situation
6. Chest pain
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7. Shortness of breath
8. Suicide attempt
9. Unconscious individual
10. Injury in which there is a broken bone or bleeding that cannot be stopped
11. Serious fall
12. Unable to wake someone
13. Ingestion of toxic chemicals or substances
14. Suspected overdose of a substance or alcohol
15. Individual out of control
16. Individual hallucinating
17. Individual having an extreme allergic reaction
18. Extreme paranoid behavior
When overdose is suspected - administer Naloxone to the individual in crisis and dial 911.
After a resident calls 911, they should call the house manager/management and inform them of the
situation. Make sure you move to a safe place to wait for the arrival of emergency assistance. DO NOT
try to move an injured person, give First Aid or CPR unless you are qualified.
Upon intake, the House Manager will ensure that all residents are aware of the emergency exit routes
and location of fire extinguishers for the residence. Phone numbers for the House Manager, Stephouse
Recovery Management, and OC HCA Program Officers shall be kept current on the bulletin board in
the common area of the residence.
VISITATION POLICY
StepHouse Recovery does not allow any visitation/visitors to any of the facilities. Failure to comply will result in
discharge from the program and P.O. may be notified.
ANY INFRACTION MAY RESULT IN BEING WRITTEN UP or TERMINATION FROM THE PROGRAM. P.O.
WILL BE NOTIFIED.
18-41-
19
EXHIBIT D
-42-
1 Revised August 2024
COUNTY
Name
MRN
DOB
Date
StepHouse Recovery Sober Living - Intake
Name: ____________________________________________ Date: _________________
Telephone: ____________________ DOB: ____________ Social Security: _______________________
Driver’s License #: _________________ Issuing State: ______
Ethnicity:
◻ American Indian or Alaska Native ◻ Asian ◻ Black or African American ◻ Hispanic
◻ Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander ◻ White ◻ Other, please state: _____________________
◻ Prefer Not to State
Gender:
◻ Female ◻ Male ◻ Transgender ◻ Non-binary/non-conforming ◻ Prefer not to state
Current Address: _____________________________________________________________
Last Address: ________________________________________________________________
Current Email Address: ________________________________________________________
Disabilities: __________________________________________________________________
Chronically Homeless Yes _____ No_____
History of Domestic Violence Yes _____ No_____
20
EXHIBIT E
-43-
2 Revised August 2024
Prior Incarceration Yes _____ No_____
Support System in Place Yes _____ No_____
History of Substance Abuse Yes _____ No_____
Mental Health Issues Yes _____ No_____
Have you been convicted of any sex offense in which you had to register as a sex offender under California
Penal Code Section 290?
______ Yes ______ No
Have you been convicted of any arson offenses - Violation of Penal Code sections, 451, 451.1, 451.5, 452,
452.1, 453, 454, 455?
______ Yes ______ No
Have you been convicted of any violent felonies, as defined by Penal Code section 667.5, which involves doing
bodily harm to another person?
______ Yes ______ No
Are you an active member or currently participating in the criminal activities of a prison gang and or criminal
street gang, as defined in Penal Code section 186.22 (f)?
______ Yes ______ No
Client Signature: ________________________________________ Date: _____________
Staff Signature: _________________________________________ Date: _____________
FOR OFFICE USE ONLY
Date of Entrance: ____________ Site/Unit: _____________ Room #: ______
21-44-
3 Revised August 2024
EMERGENCY CONTACT
Emergency Contact: _______________________________
Relationship: ___________________________________________
Phone Number: __________________________________
Email: __________________________________________
22-45-
4 Revised August 2024
Employer/Volunteer/School Information
You must be doing one or more of the activities listed below. Please choose one:
◻ Employed
◻ Part Time
◻ Full Time
Employer: __________________________________ Occupation: _____________________
Address: ___________________________________________________________________
Telephone: _____________________ Supervisor’s Name: ___________________________
Schedule: __________________________________________________________________
◻ Seeking Employment - Every Friday you must submit a weekly report with jobs you applied to &
interviewed with.
Date of last employment: __________________________________________
◻ Attending School
School: ______________________________ Location: ____________________________
Schedule: ___________________________________________________________________
◻ Volunteer Work
Volunteer Organization: ________________________________________________________
Location: ____________________________________________________________________
Grateful Hearts is a local organization where clients may volunteer. Email lgarcia@gratefulhearts.org to
organize volunteer hours.
Signature: ______________________________ Date: ____________________
23-46-
5 Revised August 2024
Probation Officer Information
Probation Officer/Parole Officer name: _________________________________
Address: _______________________________________________________
Phone: _________________________________________________________
◻ I am not on probation.
Client Signature: ______________________________ Date: _____________
Staff Signature: _______________________________ Date: _____________
24-47-
6 Revised August 2024
CLIENT HEALTH SCREENING
Do you currently have any of the following symptoms? Yes or No
a) Fever/chills/body aches ________
b) Cough ________
c) Shortness of breath ________
d) Temperature check, must be under 100.4 degrees ________
If yes, please offer to reschedule their appointment and provide bridge medications. If the patient indicates that
they are in crisis, the sick person should be offered a mask and referred to the on -duty staff. At that point,
screening should be kept to a minimum to evaluate for safety. Once deemed safe to leave, they should be sent
home and referred to their primary care physician or local walk-in clinic. If shortness of breath is significant, they
can be sent to an emergency room, which is the BHS clinic standard already.
Client Signature: __________________________________ Date: _______________
25-48-
7 Revised August 2024
Medical History
✔ DISEASE/CONDITION DURATION COMMENTS
Alcoholism
Asthma
Cancer
Diabetes
Drug Use
Heart Disease
High Blood Pressure
Other:
Other:
Other:
Other:
Current Physician: ____________________________ Phone: _______________
Allergies: _________________________________________________________
Allergic Reaction(s): ________________________________________________
Tobacco/Nicotine Use: ______________________________________________
If a client needs help obtaining medical care, they should reach out to the administrator of StepHouse
Recovery at 714.873.3032. If a client needs immediate medical assistance, they should call 911.
26-49-
8 Revised August 2024
CLIENT DRUG HISTORY
Drug(s) of Choice Amount/Frequency
Alcohol
Amphetamines (Adderall, Concerta, Ritalin, etc.)
Benzodiazepines (Ativan, Klonopin, Valium, Xanax,
etc.)
Cocaine
Codeine
Crack Cocaine
Ecstasy, MDMA, Molly
Fentanyl
Heroin
Hallucinogens (DMT, LSD, Mushrooms, Peyote,
etc.)
Inhalants
Marijuana/THC
Methamphetamines
Opioid Prescriptions (Oxycontin, Percocet, Vicodin,
etc.)
PCP
Other:
Client Signature: _______________________________ Date: ____________________
27-50-
9 Revised August 2024
PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS
By signing below, I have read, understand, and will comply with the following policies regarding prescription
medications. Failure to comply may result in a write-up, blackout, or discharge within the staff’s discretion. Failure
to comply will result in the client’s P.O. being notified.
● All prescriptions and over-the-counter medications being taken must be disclosed to management upon
admission.
● No legal or illegal narcotics are allowed to be brought into StepHouse Recovery Upon admission.
● Over-the-counter medications must be approved and documented by staff.
● If a client is prescribed non-narcotic psychotropic medications, the client must continue taking them as
prescribed by their psychiatrist or physician to stay in the facility.
● If a prescription is renewed or discontinued, it must be reported to staff and documented in the client’s
file.
● Taking or possessing prescription drugs that are prescribed to someone else is strictly prohibited.
● Abuse of medication can be considered a relapse and the client will be transferred to detox or discharged.
● In emergency situations (i.e., surgery, car accident, etc.), controlled and/or narcotic medication may be
necessary and may be allowed on a case-by-case basis.
Client Signature: _______________________________ Date: ____________________
28-51-
10 Revised August 2024
PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS CONT.
Please list any prescribed medications that you are currently taking and provide staff with pictures of your
medications for your file:
1. ____________________________________________________________
2. ____________________________________________________________
3. ____________________________________________________________
4. ____________________________________________________________
5. ____________________________________________________________
6. ____________________________________________________________
Doctor Information:
Name
Address
Phone
Notes/Other Info:
Client Signature: ___________________________________ Date: ____________________
29-52-
11 Revised August 2024
STEPHOUSE RECOVERY ADMISSION AGREEMENT
Applicant’s Name: ________________________ Enrollment Date: __________
To be considered for admission, prospective clients shall possess the following: a desire to stay sober, the ability
to get along with others, agree to abide by all Policies and Procedures, and a willingness to work their program.
StepHouse Recovery will not discriminate based on ethnic group identification, religion, age, sex, sexual
preference, race, or disability pursuant to the Title IV of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Section 20000d, Title 42,
United States Code); Section 11135 of California Government Code; and for recipients of financial assistance of
the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 794. Title 29, United States Code); and Chapter 6 (Commencing with
Section 10800) Division 4, Title 9 of the California Code of Regulations in accordance with all state and federal
laws and regulations. Stephouse will provide assurance of provision and recognition of personal rights and the
right to confidentiality as provided for in Title 42, Section 2.1 through 2.67-1, Code of Federal Regulations,
effective August 1, 1975.
If a client is deemed to need a higher level of care, StepHouse Recovery will deny entry of the client into
any sober living facility and will suggest admission to a residential detox facility.
StepHouse Recovery offers a healthy, independent, and shared living environment free from alcohol and drugs.
We provide safe and supportive residential homes that encourage continued recovery from substance abuse
and addiction. Food, bed linens, and cleaning supplies are also provided.
Clients will be directed to an independent physician if they require medical services. Using any medical
services/physician is at the client's sole discretion, and the client is responsible for paying the physician directly
for any medical and pharmaceutical costs.
Stephouse Recovery will also provide clients with employment and housing resource information.
30-53-
12 Revised August 2024
STEPHOUSE RECOVERY’S POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
PLEASE INITIAL AFTER READING EACH SECTION:
AUTHORITY POLICY
StepHouse Recovery shall recognize the authority of the Orange County Probation Department (OCPD) as
officers of the court and shall extend cooperation to OCPD within the constraints of state and federal laws and
regulations.
StepHouse Recovery shall operate in accordance with Local, State, and Federal laws and regulations.
StepHouse Recovery has an open-door policy with law enforcement, probation/parole, and court services
programs. All clients agree to be respectful to all.
(______)
Initial
CLEANING POLICY
Be considerate to others. Practice good hygiene by showering regularly, washing clothes and bedding regularly,
and keeping personal living areas clean and orderly.
Clean up after yourself; especially after using the shared common areas (bathroom, living room, patio, yards,
garage areas, kitchen, fridges, etc.). All common areas in housing are to be shared and treated with respect and
cleanliness.
Cleaning supplies are provided to the facilities. Mandatory cleaning days will be scheduled by staff biweekly on
Sundays.
(______)
Initial
CLIENT CONFIDENTIALITY POLICY
I shall respect and maintain the confidentiality of all discussions between staff and other clients in connection
with group meetings where clients share personal information.
I understand that I am legally prohibited from posting or sharing pictures, videos, or information about other
clients, discussions, or activities online in any format (including, but not limited to email, websites, message
boards, blogs, and social networking platforms).
I understand that these are the conditions of my admission to StepHouse Recovery. Any breach of the Client
Confidentiality Agreement may result in immediate discharge from StepHouse Recovery.
31-54-
13 Revised August 2024
I further understand that my personal file may be audited by StepHouse Recovery’s authorized personnel for the
purpose of monitoring quality, performance, and compliance. All information will be kept confidential and in
accordance with the Federal Confidentiality Regulations.
(______)
Initial
CLIENT SIGN-IN/OUT POLICY – CLIENT SCHEDULES
All clients must sign in/out when entering or leaving the residence. Failure to do so will result in a write -up,
blackout, or discharge from the program as needed.
StepHouse Recovery shall provide logs for all clients that will include the following information:
✔ Client name and signature when leaving and signature again when returning
✔ Date and time leaving the Recovery Residence facility
✔ Estimated time of return to the facility
✔ Location and telephone number where the client may be reached.
StepHouse Recovery shall also receive a schedule from the client for treatment, work, school, or other
activities. The client shall be required to notify StepHouse Recovery staff of any change to their
schedule. The schedule is maintained on a calendar monitored by staff at each home.
(______)
Initial
OUTPATIENT PARTICIPATION POLICY
Clients who are required to participate in either an Orange County approved outpatient treatment
program and/or a Day Reporting Center (DRC) must comply or be discharged. Exceptions to the
mandatory participation must be approved by the county of Orange and provided to Stephouse
Recovery in writing.
OCHCA requires that all clients attend outpatient meetings ((SMART recovery, 12-Step program, etc.). Staff
will collect client meeting logs weekly on Sunday evenings. If the client is unavailable on Sunday evening,
they must arrange for staff to receive the logs before Sunday evening. Clients are required to complete
meeting logs as proof of attendance, which must be signed by the client’s meeting counselor or group leader.
Periodically StepHouse Recovery will contact the program where the client attends meetings, requesting
attendance verification. Therefore, at the time of intake, StepHouse Recovery requires a signed release of
patient information form permitting the outpatient meeting agency to share information with Stephouse.
(______)
Initial
32-55-
14 Revised August 2024
CURFEW/OVERNIGHT POLICY
Clients must be back by curfew:
Weekdays- 10:00 PM.
Weekends and Holidays- 12:00 AM.
All clients must follow curfews unless other arrangements have been made in advance with management (i.e.,
overnight pass, working past curfew, etc.).
Clients must be with StepHouse Recovery for a minimum of 30 days and have no behavioral issues to qualify
for an overnight pass. Approval must be requested in writing to the StepHouse office at least 48 hours in advance
and is up to the staff’s discretion. Clients may obtain overnight passes for a maximum of two (2) weekends or
four (4) nights per month.
Leaving the house after curfew hours may be grounds for termination from the program. Curfew violators will be
placed on a behavioral contract and required to pass a drug test prior to returning to housing.
The client agrees that they are subject to discharge if they leave StepHouse Recovery overnight without a pass.
(______)
Initial
DISCHARGE/TERMINATION POLICY
Client has completed the program when they have used their maximum allotted time or reached their goals for
transition. Staff will complete a Discharge Form to document the circumstances of the client leaving sober
living. Clients are not required to sign the discharge form.
Failure to comply with StepHouse policies signed at intake may result in a written warning or administrative
termination from the program. Infractions will be documented in the client's record, and a behavioral contract
will accompany the written warning. The client's Probation/Parole Officer will be notified of termination when
applicable. In addition, there may be circumstances where law enforcement may be called, and legal action
taken against the client.
If a client discharges or is terminated from the program and does not collect personal belongings, the items will
be held for seven (7) days (excluding food products) and then discarded or donated to charity. Clients
terminated from the program must be sober before they enter StepHouse property.
Each client should receive a housing resource guide upon discharge. Stephouse Recovery will assist
discharged clients in securing safe, temporary shelter in the event of immediate discharge. Residents who
have relapsed and under the influence may be transported to Be Well Orange Campus or College Hospital
Costa Mesa.
Cause for Termination from the Program
● If a client needs a higher level of care than provided at StepHouse Recovery. The client will be referred
to OCHCA.
33-56-
15 Revised August 2024
● The client has left the residence and no contact has been made after three (3) days (unless other
arrangements have been made)
● Theft of any kind. Theft may also result in legal proceedings.
● Threatening or dangerous behavior.
● Behavior that is not conducive to recovery. Unacceptable behavior includes but is not limited to sexual
activity on the premises, fighting, stealing, lying, etc.
● Confrontational behavior, harassment, and being a constant nuisance to other clients or staff.
● Continuous poor behavior and attitude toward staff or other clients.
● Positive results/refusal of urinalysis, breathalyzer, or any other drug test. Refusal to test is equivalent to
a POSITIVE test.
● DRUG/ALCOHOL AND/OR PARAPHERNALIA on the premises.
● Taking or possessing prescription drugs that are prescribed to someone else.
● Vandalism or other deliberate abuse of house property.
● Sexual harassment to residents, vendors, staff, or others.
● Violating the no-smoking policy.
● Leaving after curfew without permission.
● Illegal activities of any kind.
● Violence or threats of violence.
● Weapons possession.
● Failure to sign in/out when entering or leaving the residence. This may result in a written client warning
or discharge from the program as needed.
● Refusing to allow a search of personal belongings, room, or person.
In addition, clients are required to maintain an appropriate noise level. Loud noises of any kind are prohibited;
please keep noises to a minimum. The first offense will result in a verbal warning and will be documented in
the client's record. Repeated violations may result in discharge from the program.
These causes for termination are not an exhaustive list. Stephouse Management reserves the right to consider
all circumstances, behaviors, issues, etc., for appropriate action. All terminations are up to the staff’s discretion.
Once a client is discharged, they are not allowed to return to the facility except to retrieve personal belongings.
Arrangements to retrieve belongings should be made in advance with StepHouse Recovery staff.
(______)
Initial
DISCRETION POLICY
The client understands that they are entering independent sober living. Privacy is limited and space is shared.
Stephouse Recovery staff will conduct bed checks and will be entering bedrooms regularly. StepHouse
Recovery staff reserves the right to interpret and apply the rules to meet the needs of each client effectively
and within reason. Staff will use their best judgment with events and circumstances as they occur. Stephouse
Management reserves the right to change or make additions to StepHouse Recovery Policies and Procedures
at any time. It is within StepHouse Recovery’s discretion to make amendments or modifications to any of the
following:
34-57-
16 Revised August 2024
● Rules and Regulations
● Policies
● Room Assignments
● Food Requirements
● Schedules
● Supervision
● Chore Assignments
● Testing
● Discharge
Clients who violate any StepHouse Recovery Policies or Procedures agree to the decisions and consequences
deemed necessary by the staff.
(______)
Initial
DRUG/ALCOHOL POLICY
Alcohol, illegal drugs, or non-prescribed drug use, distribution, and/or possession are strictly prohibited. Cough
syrup or mouthwash with alcohol content is prohibited. A client must have total abstinence from any mind/mood-
altering chemicals and/or drugs.
No paraphernalia (syringes, papers, pipes, spoons, etc.) associated with drugs on-premises.
No association with any active drug or alcohol offender(s), nor frequent places where drugs are sold, used, or
are accessible.
Any infraction may result in the client being put on a standout*, behavioral contract, or discharged. (*Standout-
A specified number of days when a client is banned from the house).
(______)
Initial
SUPPORT STAFF
Staff is responsible for the supervision of all clients residing in the facility. Staff shall be responsible for
ensuring the safety of the buildings and grounds and maintaining compliance of clients and staff with facility
rules. Whenever StepHouse Recovery Staff is not present at the facility, a designated facility staff person shall
be on-call to respond and arrive at the facility.
StepHouse Recovery shall post the contact telephone number of designated on-call staff.
The staff will randomly be on sight at the facility to perform UAs/breathalyzers and conduct random searches of
the client rooms, personal property, and belongings.
(______)
Initial
35-58-
17 Revised August 2024
EMPLOYMENT/SCHOOL/VOLUNTEERING POLICY
StepHouse Recovery requires all clients to be employed, seeking employment, attending school or volunteering
during the duration of their program. Verification of employment, interviews, applications, or volunteer hours is
required weekly. Proof of school enrollment is also required. Failure to comply with this policy can result in
discharge from the program.
(______)
Initial
GOOD NEIGHBOR POLICY
A top priority for StepHouse Recovery is to ensure that the occupants of our homes are considerate of the
neighbors and respectful of the neighborhoods in which they reside. The following protocol should always be
followed by clients and staff to ensure that the community and StepHouse Recovery maintain a healthy
relationship.
StepHouse Recovery provides contact information of our managerial staff to the bordering neighbors (located
behind, to the left, to the right, as well as across the street of each recovery residence). We provide bordering
neighbors with an "Introductory Letter" informing them of our presence in the community and our mission and
efforts to help those in recovery make their fresh start in a safe and sober environment. "Introductory Letters"
can be requested from staff.
Should a neighbor contact a house manager with a complaint regarding our home or its occupants, it is the
responsibility of the house manager to pass this information to Management immediately, failure to do so will
result in a written warning. Management will respond to the complaint within 12 hours to let the concerned
neighbor know that the complaint was received, and we will investigate and address the issue as the situation
warrants.
To maintain a clean presentation of the house and grounds, gardening will take place bi-weekly by a paid
landscaping company. Management will also conduct outside maintenance as needed. Clients may not leave
personal belongings, bicycles, trash, or other disposed of items at the front of the house. A monthly checkup by
the Director will be made, and the current condition of the home and its grounds will be documented.
Clients are required to abide by the StepHouse Recovery House Rules. Clients are expected to maintain an
appropriate noise level and always behave appropriately.
Smoking and vaping are permitted only in designated areas (posted) as outlined in the house rules.
Cigarettes are to be disposed of in an appropriate manner. Clients are expected to maintain a clean
environment and never litter. Staff and clients are responsible for setting trash cans out on the curb and
bringing them in on the assigned trash day.
(______)
Initial
Contact Information:
Stephouse Recovery
(888) 923-7623
info@stephouserecovery.com
Orange County Healthcare Agency
Monica Curran
mcurran@ochca.com
(714) 834-2488
or
Monica Cabral
MoCabral@ochca.com
(714) 834-2027
36-59-
18 Revised August 2024
HOUSE RULES POLICY
Facility
● Accept the facility “as is”.
● The client understands they reside in a congregate housing situation, not an exclusive unit or space.
● Become familiarized with escape routes, safe gathering locations, and the need for a safe location
headcount.
● It is encouraged for clients not to bring anything of high value to the facility or to keep it on their person
otherwise. StepHouse Recovery is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged property. Clients
bringing items of monetary or sentimental value to the facility are doing so at their own risk.
● No personal refrigerators, microwaves, coffee pots, heaters, furniture, candles, or excessive property is
allowed.
● Moving rooms:
○ Clients may request to move rooms but are only allowed to move with permission of staff
■ Decisions will be based on seniority, behavioral assessment, and availability
○ Client must clean room previously occupied before moving.
○ Staff may need to move clients based on necessity. Changing a client’s room assignment is at
the staff discretion.
● House meetings are scheduled by management on a need-be basis. If the client is unable to attend
because of work conflicts, a manager must be notified.
● Laundry detergent/supplies and toiletries are not provided for client use.
● Internet Wi-Fi is provided at each location.
Client Conduct
● No drugs, alcohol, and/or paraphernalia allow on house premises.
● All medications, including over the counter, must be held and dispensed by the clients themselves.
● Do not enter other clients’ rooms. Clients may only enter their own room and are not allowed to enter
another client's bedroom.
● Clients are not allowed to fraternize with other clients.
● Do not share rental agreement information with other clients.
● All overnight passes must be requested for approval by Thursday of each week.
● Client agrees that if they leave StepHouse Recovery for an overnight without a "pass" they are subject
to discharge. Personal belongings will only be held for seven (7) days (excluding food products) and
then discarded or donated to charity.
● NO PETS- Pets of any kind are not permitted.
● Clients are expected to rise in the morning at a reasonable time to ensure they are dressed, bed made,
immediate area cleaned, and house chores completed by 11 am daily.
● Assigned chores must be completed daily.
● Before leaving the house, chores must be completed, the bed must be made, and the room must be
tidy. If clients have school/work/volunteering before the "11 am Chore Check", they must complete all
household responsibilities before leaving.
● All clients must wear appropriate attire when in shared areas of the facility and/or in the presence of
other residents and staff. Appropriate attire includes shirts and pants/shorts, and dresses.
● CURFEW, clients must be in the house by 10 PM on weekdays and 11 PM on weekends and holidays.
● Be considerate to others. Keep music and television audio so as not to disturb other clients. Pick up
after yourself, leaving microwaves, common areas, and bathrooms clean for the next person.
37-60-
19 Revised August 2024
● Shower daily, maintain personal hygiene, and wash your clothes regularly.
● Bedding must be washed weekly.
● NO SMOKING/VAPING inside of or in front of the house. SMOKING/VAPING is only permitted in
designated areas.
● DO NOT LEAVE BURNING CIGARETTES UNATTENDED.
● Empty ashtrays as needed.
● Clients agree not to have any contact with ex-clients that have been discharged due to relapse or
behavioral infractions.
● NO STEALING! Respect others' property. Theft is cause for immediate discharge and may result in
legal proceedings.
● DO NOT TOUCH THE MAIL. The operations coordinator is the only person allowed to bring the mail in
from the mailbox.
● All clients must attend at least five 12-Step meetings and scheduled house solutions meetings.
● Threatening or dangerous behavior and/or deliberate abuse of house property will be cause for
immediate discharge and may result in legal proceedings.
● Sexual harassment is strictly prohibited and will result in automatic discharge from the program. The
client’s Parole/Probation Officer and law enforcement will be notified.
● Clients must notify staff of any communicable disease.
● If you see something, say something. The purpose of sober living is to provide a supportive
environment free from alcohol and drugs. Clients play a vital role in keeping each other safe and sober.
Staff should be informed of threatening or dangerous behaviors of others, drug or alcohol use,
housemates’ lack of participation in house chores, etc.
● In the event of an emergency dial 911. Staff should also immediately be notified.
Daily Structured Activities
Clients are required to engage in daily activities that should be discussed with their outpatient provider.
Clients will be assigned household duties, including but not limited to house cleaning and basic household
operations. Assigned duties must be completed daily.
The client agrees to work on a program of recovery to better their lives in the form of their choosing. StepHouse
Recovery highly recommends attending celebrate recovery, parenting classes, life skill classes, private
counseling, and many other community-based organizations to better themselves.
The client agrees and understands that a condition for being at StepHouse Recovery is to be gainfully employed,
actively seeking work, in treatment, attending school, or other activities to enhance the client’s future. Staff will
provide resources, assistance, and support for clients to find work, register for school, attend appropriate self -
help program meetings, and volunteer in the community.
(______)
Initial
MAIL AND PACKAGE DELIVERY POLICY
StepHouse Recovery and staff are not responsible nor liable for mail or packages that clients choose to have
delivered to a recovery residence. Do not open any packages not addressed to you.
(______)
Initial
38-61-
20 Revised August 2024
MEALS/FOOD POLICY
StepHouse Recovery will provide food during the week. It is the client’s decision on whether they wish to
consume the food provided.
Clients are not allowed to keep any food in their rooms. All food must be kept in the kitchen or designated pantry
space. Only water bottles are allowed in clients’ rooms.
Clients are required to clean up after themselves. Personal items, laundry, towels, and the like should not be left
in the common areas of the house. Do not leave dishes in the sink or any other areas of the house, including
rooms. Clean and stow dishes, utensils, and cookware in their allocated spaces. Clean the counters and stove
after use. Clean the microwave as needed, especially if you spill something.
Food logs must be filled out on Sunday for the week prior.
(______)
Initial
MOTOR VEHICLE (INCL. MOTORCYCLE) POLICY
● Clients driving a motor vehicle or motorcycle must possess and provide copies of a current California
Driver's License, proof of insurance, and registration.
● Clients are not allowed to ride in the car of another client or allow another client to drive their car.
● Clients who have their vehicles must have prior approval from the program director to drive their vehicles.
All vehicles must be insured and properly registered, and the client must have a valid driver's license.
● Auto repair on the premises is not permitted without prior management permission.
*Vehicles are a privilege that may be revoked at any time due to non-compliance with program rules and
expectations. *
(______)
Initial
NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY
StepHouse Recovery does not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex,
or mental or physical disabilities, pursuant to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Section 2000d, Title
42, United States Code), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 794, Title 29, United States Code); the
Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (Section 12132, Title 42, United States Code); Section 11135 of
the California Government Code; and Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 10800), Division 4, Title 9 of
the California Code of Regulations.
Any person who believes they or someone else has been subjected to discrimination based on race, national
origin, sex, age, or disability may file a grievance under the following procedure. It is against the law for
StepHouse Recovery to retaliate against anyone who opposes discrimination, files a grievance, or participates
in the investigation of a grievance. This policy applies to employees, contractors, vendors, clients, and all who
interact with Stephouse Recovery.
(______)
Initial
39-62-
21 Revised August 2024
OPIOID OVERDOSE EMERGENCY TREATMENT POLICY
StepHouse Recovery shall have available at each program site, at minimum, one Naloxone (Narcan) Nasal
Spray for the treatment of known or suspected opioid overdose.
In case of suspected opioid overdose, staff may administer Naloxone (Narcan) Nasal Spray and then call 911.
Clients will also be shown how to administer Naloxone.
**Note: Naloxone is the generic name of Narcan. Narcan is the brand name of Naloxone.
(______)
Initial
PROPERTY DAMAGE POLICY
The client agrees not to damage the facility, which includes the outside perimeter.
Client agrees not to damage any property belonging to StepHouse Recovery which includes but is not limited to
transport vehicles, appliances, and furniture.
The client agrees to return any items to the facility before discharge, including linens, blankets, and towels.
The client agrees if there is damage that cannot reasonably be traced back to a particular person, the cost of the
damage will be shared equally among all the housemates.
The client agrees to be financially responsible for all damage caused by them in any of the StepHouse Recovery
facilities and transport vehicles.
(______)
Initial
DRUG & ALCOHOL SCREENING POLICY
Alcohol, illegal drug, or non-prescribed drug use or possession by clients or staff is strictly prohibited.
Cough syrup with alcohol content is prohibited for client safety and sobriety.
ALL CLIENTS MAY BE SUBJECT TO RANDOM DRUG SCREENS, BREATHALYZER TESTS AND
ROOM SEARCHES.
● StepHouse shall perform random drug and/or alcohol testing on clients suspected of using substances
AND at a minimum of one (1) time per month.
● All urine specimen collection shall be observed by same-sex staff. The result of the screening will be
documented in the client's record.
● Clients are not allowed to open tests by themselves. Staff will open the tests and then give them
to clients.
● If a test is unclear or possible contamination is suspected, the client will have to re-test within 1.5 hours
after the first test was administered.
40-63-
22 Revised August 2024
If a client refuses a search or test or drugs or alcohol are found or detected, StepHouse Recovery
will notify the client's probation officer (within one business day), and discharge from the program
may result. Refusal to test is equivalent to a POSITIVE test.
** REMINDER**
UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHALL A CLIENT WHO IS UNDER THE INFLUENCE BE
ALLOWED IN THE HOUSE.
If a client is found to be under the influence, management shall pack the client's property for
retrieval at a later time. When the client is no longer under the influence, he can arrange to retrieve
personal property with staff.
The client’s property will be held for seven (7) days before StepHouse Recovery donates the
items to charity.
(______)
Initial
SMOKING POLICY
Smoking, (including electronic cigarettes) is prohibited within the facilities; the use of tobacco and tobacco
products on facility premises is allowed in the backyard or parking lot.
1. Smoking and/or vaping is prohibited in any enclosed area of StepHouse Recovery's facilities.
2. Cigarettes must be completely extinguished in receptacles or metal containers to reduce fire risk.
3. Any client violating the no-smoking policy may be discharged from the program.
4. A self-audit of the no-smoking policy will be implemented, and any violation should be reported by
staff in an incident report. A monthly Health and Safety audit will be conducted to see if the no-
smoking policy is being adhered to.
-NO SMOKING/VAPING INSIDE OF OR IN FRONT OF THE HOUSE. SMOKING/VAPING is only permitted
in designated areas.
-DO NOT LEAVE BURNING CIGARETTES UNATTENDED.
(______)
Initial
TRANSGENDER & GENDER IDENTITY POLICY
StepHouse Recovery will not discriminate against ethnic group identification, religion, age, gender
identification, sexual preferences, race, or disability. StepHouse Recovery will make every effort to ensure
that all needs of transgender and non-cisgender persons are accommodated. We are committed to our
clients feeling safe, supported, and comfortable.
StepHouse Recovery is committed to maintaining client information in strict confidence. No client
information is ever shared with other clients, including gender orientation.
41-64-
23 Revised August 2024
Transgender and non-cisgender clients are subject to the same drug/alcohol screening policy. A staff of
the same gender the client has identified with will be in the room to observe urine specimen collection.
(______)
Initial
GENDER-ORIENTED FACILITY POLICY
StepHouse Recovery will accommodate clients according to their gender identity. Those clients
identifying as male, and female will be housed in separate residences accordingly.
(______)
Initial
TRANSPORTATION POLICY
StepHouse Recovery shall arrange for transportation via bus vouchers, as necessary. StepHouse
Recovery will also provide information regarding public transportation, how to obtain a bus pass, bus
schedules, etc.
If the client owns and operates a vehicle, StepHouse Recovery shall do its best to accommodate the
vehicle in accordance with federal, state, and county rules and regulations. StepHouse Recovery is not
responsible for transportation via clients’ cars. Choosing to ride in the car of another client or allow
another client to drive your car is strongly discouraged and is done at your own risk. Clients are not
permitted to drive or operate StepHouse Recovery vehicles.
Clients can also use the service Veyo for non-emergency medical transportation. This service can be
used for doctor’s appointments, meetings, therapy, etc. Call the number 1-833-648-7528 and mention
that you are a client at StepHouse Recovery.
(______)
Initial
VISITATION POLICY
StepHouse Recovery does not allow any visitation/visitors in any of the facilities. Failure to comply will result in
discharge from the program and P.O. may be notified.
ANY INFRACTION MAY RESULT IN BEING WRITTEN UP or TERMINATION FROM THE PROGRAM. P.O.
WILL BE NOTIFIED.
(______)
Initial
42-65-
24 Revised August 2024
NO RESPONSIBILITY CLAUSE
Stephouse Recovery assumes no responsibility for the client’s personal property. Stephouse is released from
all liability for any loss or damage to any and all personal property. Personal property includes but is not limited
to vehicles, valuables, money, jewelry, eyeglasses, hearing aids, documents, electronic devices (i.e., computers,
game consoles, and tablets), and mobile devices. Clients are advised to minimize the personal property brought
into residential recovery homes. All items brought to a Stephouse Recovery home are done at the client’s own
risk. Locks are not permitted on bedroom doors, and there are no exceptions to this rule.
The client agrees to hold harmless The StepHouse Recovery, Inc, the property owners, and any and all Service
Providers/Contractors against any and all claims, demands, suits, or loss.
(______)
Initial
By signing below, you confirm that you have read and agree to all terms in this StepHouse Recovery
Admission Agreement.
Client Name: _____________________________________ Date: ____________
Client Signature: __________________________________________________
Staff Name: _____________________________________ Date: ____________
Staff Signature: ____________________________________________________
43-66-
25 Revised August 2024
44-67-
26 Revised August 2024
I acknowledge that I have read and understand the procedures for administering NARCAN. A copy of this
information will be provided for you to keep in the welcome packet.
Client Name: ______________________________________________
Client Signature: ___________________________________________
Date: ______________________
45-68-
27 Revised August 2024
(AB 109) SOBER LIVING- Client Sobriety and Treatment History
I have been sober since: ____________________________________________
I have been at the following treatment programs and/or sober living facilities:
________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
I am currently participating in the outpatient treatment program/or Probation DRC (Probation Reporting Center)
at: ______________________________________
(TO BE FILLED OUT BY STAFF)
Notations regarding how Sober Living may assist the client in implementing his/her sobriety-
related plan recommendations:
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
Client Signature: _______________________________ Date: _______________
Staff Signature: _______________________________ Date: _______________
46-69-
28 Revised August 2024
HIPAA COMPLIANT AUTHORIZATION
FOR THE RELEASE OF PATIENT INFORMATION
to HCA and Orange County Probation
Client Last Name: Client First Name:
Date of Birth: SSN (last 4 digits)
Email: Phone Number:
Address: City:
State: Zip:
I ____________________________________________________________ do hereby authorize
Client Name
_______________Stephouse Recovery, Inc. ______________________________________________
Name of Agency/Provider
___9679 Ellis Ave., Fountain Valley, CA 92708_______________(714) 394-3494______________________
Address Phone Number
to release my protected health information to Orange County Health Care Agency
405 W 5th Street, Santa Ana CA 92701
(855) 886-54000
And Orange County Probation Department
Purpose of this authorization:
◻ Patient Request
■ Continuity of Care/Treatment
◻ Insurance ■ Requested by Legal Authority
◻ Other: ________________________________________________________
Information that can be released (check all that apply):
■ Medical Records
47-70-
29 Revised August 2024
■ Summary of Treatment
■ Outpatient Meeting Attendance Records
◻ Other, please specify:
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
Types of records to be released:
■ Complete Records retained by Stephouse Recovery (including, but not limited to office notes, face
sheets, history, physical, consultations, inpatient, outpatient, and emergency room treatment, test
results, progress notes, social worker records, clinic records, and the like). Alcohol, Drug and/or
Substance Abuse Records and Mental Health Records are excluded from this section. See below to
authorize release of Alcohol, Drug and/or Substance Abuse Records and Mental Health Records.
◻ Other, please specify:
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
Client initials and date range of records to be released are required below for the use or release of the
following types of sensitive information:
Please initial on the line provided. Dates are required, “date from” will be date of
admission.
___ Alcohol, Drug or Substance Abuse Records Date from: __________ Date To: __________
___ Mental Health Records Date from: __________ Date To: __________
I understand that my records are protected under the Federal regulations governing Confidentiality of Alcohol
and Drug Abuse Patient Records, 42 C.F.R. Part 2, and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
of 1996 (HIPAA), 45 C.F.R. Pts. 160 & 164, and cannot be disclosed without my written consent unless
otherwise provided for by the regulations.
I have read the contents of this form. I understand, agree, and allow the above-named Agency/Provider
to release my information as I have stated above. I also understand that signing this form is voluntary and
treatment, payment, or eligibility for benefits will not be affected if I do not sign this authorization. I have the
right to revoke this authorization at any time by providing written notice to Stephouse Recovery at 9679 Ellis
48-71-
30 Revised August 2024
Ave. Fountain Valley, CA 92708. The revocation will not affect disclosures that Stephouse Recovery has
already taken action in reliance on the authorization. Information disclosed pursuant to this authorization may
be re-disclosed by the recipient and no longer be protected by federal privacy law (HIPAA). Applicable State or
other federal law may require the recipient to obtain your written authorization before re-disclosure unless
otherwise permitted by such laws. I am entitled to a copy of this form. A copy of the original authorization is
valid. This authorization expires three years from the date of my discharge from Stephouse Recovery.
Anticipated Date of Discharge: ___________________
Client Signature: _______________________________ Date: _______________
Completed by Stephouse Recovery Staff:
Printed Name: ___________________________________
Signature: ______________________________________ Date: ______________________
49-72-
31 Revised August 2024
HIPAA COMPLIANT AUTHORIZATION
FOR THE RELEASE OF PATIENT INFORMATION
Outpatient Meeting Provider
Client Last Name: Client First Name:
Date of Birth: SSN (last 4 digits)
Email: Phone Number:
Address: City:
State: Zip:
I ____________________________________________________________ do hereby authorize
Client Name
__________________________________ ___________________________________________________
Name of Agency/Provider
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Address Phone Number
to release my protected health information to
to release my protected health information to Stephouse Recovery
9679 Ellis Ave. Fountain Valley CA
(714) 394-3494
Purpose of this authorization:
◻ Patient Request
◻ Continuity of Care/Treatment
◻ Insurance
◻ Requested by Legal Authority
■ Other: __Proof of meeting attendance __________________________________________
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32 Revised August 2024
Information that can be released (check all that apply):
◻ Medical Records
◻ Summary of Treatment
■ Outpatient Meeting Attendance Records
◻ Other, please specify:
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
Types of records to be released:
◻ Complete Records retained by Stephouse Recovery (including, but not limited to office notes, face
sheets, history, physical, consultations, inpatient, outpatient, and emergency room treatment, test
results, progress notes, social worker records, clinic records, and the like). Alcohol, Drug and/or
Substance Abuse Records and Mental Health Records are excluded from this section. See below to
authorize release of Alcohol, Drug and/or Substance Abuse Records and Mental Health Records.
■ Other, please specify: _______Meeting Attendance Only___________________________________
Client initials and date range of records to be released are required below for the use or release of the
following types of sensitive information:
Please initial on the line provided. Dates are required. -----
NOT APPLICABLE FOR THIS REQUEST
___ Alcohol, Drug or Substance Abuse Records Date from: __________ Date To: __________
___ Mental Health Records Date from: __________ Date To: __________
I understand that my records are protected under the Federal regulations governing Confidentiality of Alcohol
and Drug Abuse Patient Records, 42 C.F.R. Part 2, and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
of 1996 (HIPAA), 45 C.F.R. Pts. 160 & 164, and cannot be disclosed without my written consent unless
otherwise provided for by the regulations.
I have read the contents of this form. I understand, agree, and allow the above-named Agency/Provider
to release my information as I have stated above. I also understand that signing this form is voluntary and
treatment, payment, or eligibility for benefits will not be affected if I do not sign this authorization. I have the
right to revoke this authorization at any time by providing written notice to Stephouse Recovery at 9679 Ellis
Ave. Fountain Valley, CA 92708. The revocation will not affect disclosures that Stephouse Recovery has
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33 Revised August 2024
already taken action in reliance on the authorization. Information disclosed pursuant to this authorization may
be re-disclosed by the recipient and no longer be protected by federal privacy law (HIPAA). Applicable State or
other federal law may require the recipient to obtain your written authorization before re-disclosure unless
otherwise permitted by such laws. I am entitled to a copy of this form. A copy of the original authorization is
valid. This authorization expires three years from the date of my discharge from Stephouse Recovery.
Anticipated Date of Discharge: ___________________
Client Signature: _______________________________ Date: _______________
Completed by Stephouse Recovery Staff:
Printed Name: ___________________________________
Signature: ______________________________________ Date: ______________________
52-75-
34 Revised August 2024
Notice of Privacy Practices
Dear Stephouse Client:
Your medical and behavioral health treatment information and records are personal and private. Stephouse Recovery is
committed to protecting your personal health information, also known as Protected Health Information or PHI. We are
required by Federal and State laws to protect the privacy of your medical and behavioral health information.
We have developed and implemented policies, procedures, and safeguards in alignment with the HIPAA Security Rule and
HITECH Act of 2009 to ensure the security, confidentiality, integrity, and availability of all PHI Stephouse creates, receive s,
maintains, or transmits from improper use and disclosure. Stephouse provides ongoing training to employees and outside
contractors to ensure compliance with all HIPAA privacy and confidentiality regulations.
If you wish to allow Stephouse Recovery to share your information with family, partners, or other persons or entities, we mus t
have a release of information, signed by you, on file.
We are required by law to provide you with this Notice of our legal duties and privacy practices with respect to your medical
and behavioral health information.
If you have any questions and/or would like additional information, you may contact Stephouse Management at (714) 394 -
3494.
How We May Use and Disclose Your Protected Health Information
The uses and disclosures of your protected health information are below. Use and disclosure of substance and/or alcohol use
disorder information will be discussed separately.
1. Coordination of care. We may use and disclose your protected health information to provide care coordination or to
direct or recommend a higher level of care and any related services, such as referral to treatment and detox centers.
We may also disclose your health information to personnel at the Orange County Health Care Agency (OCHCA) or
community resources and providers who may be treating you or involved in your care.
2. Payment. We may use or disclose your protected health information to determine the OCHCA or your medical
insurance’s responsibility to pay for or to permit us to bill and collect payment for the services that we provide to you.
3. Sober Living Operations. We may use and disclose your protected health information to support the business
activities of Stephouse Recovery Inc. We may disclose your health information to other staff or business associates
who perform billing, consulting, auditing, licensing, accreditation, and other services for Stephouse Recovery.
4. Required by Law. We may use and disclose your protected health information when required by Federal, State, or
local law.
5. Business Associates. We may contract with business associates to perform certain functions or activities on our
behalf, such as payment, business operations, lab tests, and other services. We release the minimum amount of PHI
necessary for the business associate to perform the identified services. We require business associates to safeguard
your information appropriately. Examples of business associates include contractors, billing companies, outsourced
laboratories, and electronic medical records vendors.
6. Victims of Abuse, Neglect, or Domestic Violence. We may disclose your protected health information to other
government agencies to report suspected abuse, neglect, or domestic violence. We will only disclose this information
if you agree, if the law requires us to, or when it is necessary to protect someone from serious harm.
7. Lawsuits and Legal Actions. We may use and disclose your protected health information in response to a court or
administrative order, certain subpoenas, or other legal process. We may also use and disclose PHI to the extent
permitted by law without your authorization, such as defending against a lawsuit or arbitration.
53-76-
35 Revised August 2024
8. Law Enforcement. We may disclose your protected health information to authorized officials such as the police,
sheriff, or FBI for law enforcement purposes and in response to legal processes, such as a search warrant or court
order.
9. Coroners, Medical Examiners, and Funeral Directors. We may disclose your protected health information to
funeral directors, coroners, and medical examiners to permit body identification, determine what caused the death, or
for other official duties.
10. To Stop a Serious Threat to Health or Safety. We may use or disclose your protected health information if we
believe it is necessary to avoid or lessen a serious threat to your health or safety or to someone else’s.
11. Military Activity and National Security. We may use or disclose the PHI of armed forces personnel to the applicable
military authorities when they believe it is necessary to carry out military missions properly. We may also disclose
your PHI to authorized federal officials as necessary for national security and intelligence activities or for the
protection of the president and other government officials and dignitaries.
12. Identity Verification. We may photograph you for identification purposes. Your photo may be stored in your
Stephouse Recovery Chart. You may decline to have your photograph taken.
13. Electronic Health Records. We may use an electronic health record to store and retrieve your health information.
We may also receive information about you from providers in the community who are involved with your care by
using shared databases or health information exchanges.
14. Communication with Family and Others When you are Present. Sometimes a family member or other person
involved in your care will be present when we are discussing your PHI with you. If you object, please tell us and we
won’t discuss your PHI while that person is present.
15. Communication with Family and Others When you are Not Present. There may be times when it is necessary to
disclose your PHI to a family member or others involved in your care because there is an emergency or you lack the
decision-making capacity to agree or object. In those instances, we will use our professional judgment to determine if
disclosing your PHI is in your best interest. If so, we will limit the disclosure to the PHI that is directly relevant to the
person’s involvement with your health care.
Uses and Disclosures of Your Protected Health Information
Requiring Your Written Authorizations
We will obtain your written permission through a signed release of information form for the uses and disclosures of your PHI
not covered by this Notice. You may revoke any release of information by submitting a request in writing at any time and we
will stop disclosing PHI about you to the indicated party(s). Any disclosures made prior to the revocation are not affected by
the revocation.
Uses and Disclosures of Your Substance and Alcohol Use Disorder Records
The confidentiality of your substance and alcohol use disorder records is protected by 42 USC 290dd -2 and the Department of
Health and Human Services (HHS) regulations at 42 CFR Part 2 – Confidentiality of Substance Use Disorder Patient Records.
Generally, we are not allowed to disclose your participation in the program or identify you as having an alcohol or drug abuse
problem to an outside person unless:
1) You consent in writing.
2) The disclosure is to prevent multiple 42 CFR Part 2 program enrollments.
3) The disclosure is allowed by a court order.
4) The disclosure is made to medical personnel to the extent necessary to meet a legitimate medical emergency.
5) The disclosure is made for certain audit and/or evaluation purposes.
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36 Revised August 2024
If you believe that the privacy of your information protected by 42 USC 290dd -2 and 42 CFR Part 2 has been violated, you may
contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Central District of California, Santa Ana Branch Office at 411 W. Fourth Street, Suite 80 00,
Santa Ana, CA 92701 or by phone at (855) 898-3957.
Your Rights Regarding Your Protected Health Information
1. Right to View and Copy Your PHI. Subject to certain exceptions, you have the right to view or get a copy of your
protected health information that we maintain in records relating to received services or payment for services. Your
request must be submitted in writing and a fee may be charged for the costs of copying, mailing, and for any other
supplies used in fulfilling your request. In limited situations, we may refuse any requests to see or receive copies of
your records. If denied, we will tell you why in writing and explain your right to have our denial reviewed.
2. Right to View and Copy Laboratory Test Results. You have the right to view and copy protected health information
consisting of your completed laboratory test results obtained by Stephouse Recovery. A request must be submitted in
writing and a fee may be charged for the costs of copying, mailing, and any other supplies used to fulfill your request.
3. Right to Request an Amendment
You have the right to request that we correct or add to your record if you believe there is a mistake in your PHI or that
important information is missing. The request must be in writing; explain what corrections or additions you are
requesting and the reasons the corrections or additions should be made. We may deny your request if it is not in
writing or does not include a reason to support the request. We may also deny your request if:
▪ The information in your record is correct and accurate.
▪ We did not create the information in your record, or the person who created it is no longer available to make the
amendment.
▪ The information is not part of the records you are permitted to view and copy.
If we deny your request for amendment, we will tell you why and explain your right to file a written statement of
appeal in response to our decision.
4. Right to an Accounting of Disclosures
You have the right to request a list of our disclosures of your PHI. The request must be made in writing.
To request an accounting, please contact us at Stephouse Recovery, 9679 Ellis Ave. Fountain Valley, 92708, or by
email at info@stephouserecovery.com. A fee may be charged for copying, mailing, and any other supplies used in
fulfilling your request.
The list will not include the following disclosures:
▪ Those that you provided signed authorization for.
▪ To carry out payment and health care operations.
▪ To parole officers, probation officers, or other law enforcement as required.
▪ Not covered by the right to an accounting.
5. Right to Request Restrictions on Uses and Disclosures of your PHI
You have the right to request a restriction or limitation on how we use or disclose your PHI under certain
circumstances. Restrictions or limitations can be discussed with Stephouse Recovery Management. We are not
required to agree to your request in every situation, particularly when you do not fully pay for services.
6. Right to Request Confidential Communications
You have the right to request how we communicate with you to preserve your privacy. Please inform Stephouse
Management if you prefer a specific form of communication; for example, if you do not wish to receive text messages.
7. Right to Revoke Releases of Information
You have the right to take back or revoke your written authorization to use and disclose your PHI at any time. You
must let us know of your revocation in writing. Please note that we cannot take back any information already used or
shared while the authorization was valid.
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37 Revised August 2024
8. Right to a Paper Copy of this Notice
9. Notification of a Breach of PHI
10. Right to File a Complaint
You have the right to file a complaint with Stephouse Recovery by writing to us at 9679 Ellis Ave., Fountain Valley, CA
92708.
You also have the right to file a complaint directly to the Secretary of the United States Department of Health and
Human Services (DHHS) at DHHS, Region IX Office for Civil Rights, 90 7th Street, Suite 4-100, San Francisco, CA 94103,
or call (800) 368-1019, TDD (800) 537-7697. The complaint must be filed in writing and sent by mail, fax, or
electronically by e-mail and within 180 days of when you found out the violation occurred.
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38 Revised August 2024
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT RECEIPT NOTICE OF PRIVACY PRACTICES
Stephouse Recovery, Inc.
9679 Ellis Ave.
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
I acknowledge that I have received a copy of the Notice of Privacy Practices Stephouse Recovery, Inc.
The Notice of Privacy Practices describes the types of uses and disclosure of my protected health
information that might occur in receipt of sober living services, payment for services, or in the
performance of the office operations. The Notice of Privacy Practices also describes my rights and the
responsibilities and Stephouse Recovery, Inc. with respect to my protected health information.
Stephouse Recovery reserves the right to change the privacy practices that are described in the Notice
of Privacy Practices. If privacy practices change, I will be offered a copy of the revised Notice of
Privacy Practices. I may also obtain a revised Notice of Privacy Practices by requesting that one be
mailed to me.
MY SIGNATURE BELOW ACKNOWLEDGES I HAVE RECEIVED A COPY OF THE NOTICE OF
PRIVACY PRACTICES. ALL OF MY QUESTIONS HAVE BEEN ANSWERED AND I UNDERSTAND
THAT I MAY MAKE INQUIRY TO THIS ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AT ANY TIME.
______________________________________ __________________
CLIENT NAME (PRINTED) DATE
________________________________________________________
CLIENT SIGNATURE
OFFICE USE ONLY: RECORD OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT NOT OBTAINED
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT WAS NOT OBTAINED FOR THE FOLLOWING REASON(S):
☐ Needed more time to review Notice of Privacy Practices.
☐ Wanted to consult with another person before signing.
☐ Unable to sign.
☐ Reason not given
☐ Other (please explain) __________________________________________
___________________________________
CLIENT NAME (PRINTED)
_________________________________________ ________________
STEPHOUSE RECOVERY STAFF (PRINTED) DATE
__________________________________________
STAFF SIGNATURE
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39 Revised August 2024
EMPLOYMENT TRACKING FORM
Client Name: Date:
Please indicate your current employment/volunteer/student status:
◻ Employed Full-Time
◻ Employed Part-Time
◻ Attending school
◻ Volunteering
◻ I am not currently employed, volunteering, or enrolled in school at the time of
intake to Stephouse Recovery. I will notify the Stephouse staff when this status
has changed. I understand that staff will regularly follow up on my progress to
obtain employment, volunteer, or enroll in school.
If employed part-time, please indicate the approximate number of hours
you are working each week.
Name, Address & Phone number of Employer:
If volunteering, please indicate the approximate number of hours you
are volunteering each week.
Name, Address & Phone number of the Organization you volunteered for:
Name of school you are attending:
Are you attending online? Yes ◻ No ◻
Client Signature: _________________________________ Date: _________________
58-81-
EXHIBIT H
INTRODUCTORY LETTER
To our Neighbors,
We would like to take a moment to introduce ourselves to you and share with you our presence
in the neighborhood. StepHouse Recovery is a Sober Living residence located at 1601 Baker
St. Our mission is to provide a safe and sober environment for individuals transitioning from a
treatment program back to mainstream living. Each resident participates in a structured
recovery program provided by the Orange County Health Care Agency. StepHouse operates
with the oversight of Orange County Health Care Agency and the Orange County Sheriff’s
Department, as well as permission from the City of Costa Mesa.
A well trained house manager provides round-the-clock supervision for the residents.
Should you ever have any disturbance or issue resulting from our home please let us know. Our
goal is to be a good neighbor, and we will address any concerns as soon as possible.
Below is contact information for Stephouse staff and Orange County Health Care agency staff.
Stephouse Recovery
George Vilagut
info@stephouserecovery.com
(888) 923-7623
Orange County Healthcare Agency
Monica Curran
MCurran@ochca.com
(714) 834-2488
or
Monica Cabral
MoCabral@ochca.com
(714) 834-2027
Sincerely,
George Vilagut
Executive Director
Stephouse Recovery, Inc.
59-82-
closet
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closet
cl
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t
HVAC
closet
11’ x 5’
bathroom
bathroom
11’ x 5’
window sliding door window
wi
n
d
o
w
window
wi
n
d
o
w
wi
n
d
o
w
window window window
wi
n
d
o
w
front
door
recreation room
24’ x 16’
kitchen
13’ x 11’
dining
room
21’ x 11’
living room
13’ x 8’
12’ x 14’
2 people
bedroom
12’ x 14’
2 people
bedroom
15.5’ x 10’
1 person
bedroom
11’ x 11’
1 person
bedroom
9’ x 11’
House manager
bedroom
hallway 17’ x 3.5’
2 Car Garage
(resident parking)
Parking for 3 vehicles on driveway
Residence total square footage is 2200 sq ft
EXHIBIT F
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EXHIBIT G
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Page 1 of 43
STEPHOUSE RECOVERY
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
OCHCA RECOVERY RESIDENCE SERVICES
ATTACHMENT 6
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
NONDISCRIMINATION 4
PHILOSOPHY STATEMENT 4
FISCAL PRACTICES 4
SHARING INFORMATION WITH STAFF AND CLIENTS 5
Procedure for Notifying Program Staff and Clients of P&P Updates 5
GRIEVANCE AND COMPLAINT PROCESS & POLICY 5
SPECIAL INCIDENT REPORTING AND NOTIFICATION OF DEATH 7
EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN 8
FACILITY REQUIREMENTS 8
MANDATORY POSTINGS FOR HOUSES 9
HOUSE LOG POLICY 9
COVID-19 CORONAVIRUS POLICY 9
STAFF REQUIREMENTS FOR EMPLOYMENT 11
EMPLOYEE FILE POLICY 12
OCHCA COMPLIANCE PROGRAM ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 13
LITERATURE, ADVERTISEMENTS, AND SOCIAL MEDIA COMPLIANCE 13
NO PROSELYTIZING POLICY 13
CODE OF CONDUCT 14
DUTIES of DIRECTOR and HEAD of ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF 15
EMPLOYMENT EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMPLIANCE 15
ANTI-HARASSMENT POLICY & COMPLAINT PROCEDURE 16
STAFF DRUG TEST POLICY 18
STAFF DISCHARGE PROCEDURE 18
DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE POLICY 18
INSPECTIONS AND AUDITS 19
REPORTING AND BILLING POLICY AND PROCEDURE 20
COMPLIANCE 20
GENERAL AND SPECIALIZED PROVIDER COMPLIANCE TRAINING 20
MEDICAL BILLING, CODING, AND
DOCUMENTATION COMPLIANCE STANDARDS
21
INSURANCE STANDARDS 21
RECORDS POLICY & PROCEDURES 23
RECORDS MANAGEMENT AND MAINTENANCE 23
HIPAA PRIVACY AND SECURITY/NOTICE OF PRIVACY PRACTICES 25
BREACH POLICY 26
INTAKE POLICY AND PROCEDURE 27
OUTPATIENT PARTICIPATION POLICY 28
OUTPATIENT TREATMENT PARTICIPATION COLLECTION 28
TRACKING PROCEDURE 28
CLIENT RELAPSE POLICY 29
DISCHARGE PROCEDURES FOR STAFF 29
RECORDS RETENTION POLICY 30
DENIED ADMISSION POLICY 31
ALTERNATIVE REFERRAL POLICY 31
CLIENT ELIGIBILITY 31
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CLIENT REQUIREMENTS 31
STEPHOUSE RECOVERY’S POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
The following policies and procedures are shared with the client at intake
AUTHORITY POLICY 32
CLEANING POLICY 32
CLIENT CONFIDENTIALITY POLICY 32
CLIENT SIGN-IN/OUT POLICY – CLIENT SCHEDULES 33
OUTPATIENT PARTICIPATION POLICY 33
CURFEW/OVERNIGHT POLICY 33
DISCHARGE/TERMINATION POLICY 34
DISCRETION POLICY 35
DRUG/ALCOHOL POLICY 35
SUPPORT STAFF 35
EMPLOYMENT/SCHOOL/VOLUNTEERING POLICY 35
GOOD NEIGHBOR POLICY 36
HOUSE RULES POLICY 37
MAIL AND PACKAGE DELIVERY POLICY 38
MEALS/FOOD POLICY 38
MOTOR VEHICLE (INCL. MOTORCYCLE) POLICY 39
NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY 39
OPIOID OVERDOSE EMERGENCY TREATMENT POLICY 39
PROPERTY DAMAGE POLICY 39
DRUG & ALCOHOL SCREENING POLICY 40
SMOKING POLICY 40
TRANSGENDER & GENDER IDENTITY POLICY 40
GENDER-ORIENTED FACILITY POLICY 41
TRANSPORTATION POLICY 41
VISITATION POLICY 41
NO RESPONSIBILITY CLAUSE 41
ADDENDUM A 42
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NONDISCRIMINATION
It is the policy of Stephouse Recovery not to discriminate in employment practices and provision of benefits and
services on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, or mental or physical disabilities, pursuant to Title
VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Section 2000d, Title 42, United States Code), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
(Section 794, Title 29, United States Code); the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (Section 12132, Title 42,
United States Code); Section 11135 of the California Government Code; and Chapter 6 (commencing with Section
10800), Division 4, Title 9 of the California Code of Regulations.
MISSION STATEMENT
Our mission at Stephouse Recovery is to provide comprehensive, integrated mental health, substance abuse, and
behavioral modification services that promote the health and well-being of our clients to improve their quality of
life.
PHILOSOPHY STATEMENT
Our goal is to individualize behavior plans and recovery-based treatment plans to assist our clients in achieving
their desired goals in sobriety and everyday life. Here at Stephouse Recovery, we strive to create a positive
environment that encourages optimism and instills a comfortable feeling where clients can allow themselves a
platform to open up to alternative health choices in their recovery.
Our methods are proven effective because we use evidence-based practices. We have a state-of-the- art structured
environment that is fully staffed with qualified personnel who offer guidance, consistency, and support. We
encourage our clients to hold themselves to a higher standard and take accountability for their actions while
promoting self-confidence and self-reflection on their journey towards sobriety and a productive way of life. Our
hope is to teach each client how to break their substance abuse cycle so they can make a conscious choice to walk a
different path and lead a more productive, healthy lifestyle.
FISCAL PRACTICES
Stephouse Recovery implements standard cash basis accounting and bookkeeping practices. Expenses and
revenue are recorded on a weekly basis by a contracted bookkeeper. Stephouse Recovery’s CPA office
typically handles journal entries. All bookkeeping is reviewed quarterly by the CPA office.
Receipts and/or invoices are required to be attached to all expenses. Only Stephouse Recovery Owner has
the authority to sign checks and make bank deposits. The bookkeeper reconciles accounts at the first of
every month for the previous month’s activity. Bank statements are reviewed monthly by Stephouse Owner.
The organization’s quarterly financial statements are prepared in accordance with Generally Accepted
Accounting Principles (GAAP) by the Stephouse Recovery CPA office.
The bookkeeper handles employee payroll bi-weekly and ensures that all payroll taxes and forms are paid
and filed in a timely manner. The CPA and Stephouse House Recovery Owner oversee all other taxes and
related forms for the organization. Timesheets are to be signed and turned in to Stephouse Recovery Owner
for review on the Monday preceding the scheduled payday. The bookkeeper receives the approved
timesheets from the Stephouse Recovery Owner or his assigned delegate only and then makes any changes
to the payroll system.
Stephouse Recovery Compliance Officer oversees the completion of the Orange County Annual Cost Report
for reporting on the use of county funds.
Financial records are stored in the QuickBooks Online system and the organization’s Google Shared Drive
Banking folder. Records are kept indefinitely.
Petty Cash is not utilized in the RRS Program.
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SHARING INFORMATION WITH STAFF AND CLIENTS
Stephouse Recovery's policy is to keep all staff and residents informed and updated on all personnel
policies. Staff are emailed when policies and procedures are revised or added to. At house meetings,
residents are notified and provided copies of policy and procedure changes.
Procedure for Notifying Program Staff and Clients of P&P Updates
Policies and Procedures are reviewed annually for necessary updates and revisions. Program staff and
clients will be informed of any updates during staff meetings and house meetings immediately following
the updates. Copies of the updates will be distributed with a memo outlining the changes that have been
made. Staff and clients will be required to sign a group acknowledgement form indicating they received the
memo and a copy of the new policy/procedure.
GRIEVANCE AND COMPLAINT PROCESS & POLICY
Stephouse Recovery's policy is not to discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, age, or
disability. Stephouse Recovery has adopted an internal grievance procedure providing for prompt and
equitable resolution of complaints alleging any action prohibited by Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act
(42 U.S.C. Section 18116) and its implementing regulations at 45 C.F.R. pt. 92, issued by the U.S. Department
of Health and Human Services. Section 1557 prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin,
sex, age, or disability in certain health programs and activities.
Section 1557 and its implementing regulations may be examined in the Office of Compliance, who has been
designated to coordinate the efforts of HCA's compliance with Section 1557.
Any person who believes they have or someone else has been subjected to discrimination on the basis of
race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability may file a grievance under this procedure. It is against the
law for Stephouse Recovery to retaliate against anyone who opposes discrimination, files a grievance, or
participates in the investigation of a grievance.
This policy applies to individuals (i.e., clients/patients) participating in healthcare programs or activities
within Stephouse Recovery. All Stephouse Recovery employees who receive or respond to grievance calls
must incorporate the procedures indicated within this policy into current Service Area grievance response
procedures.
Grievances must be submitted to the Office of Compliance Civil Rights Coordinator within sixty (GO)
days of the date the person filing the grievance becomes aware of the alleged discriminatory action.
A complaint must be in writing and contain (1) the name and address of the person filing the complaint,
(2) the problem or action alleged to be discriminatory, and (3) the remedy or relief sought.
1. Office of Compliance CIVIL RIGHTS COORDINATOR Grievance Procedures
a. The Office of Compliance Civil Rights Coordinator (or her/his designee) tracks all
complaints/grievances related to race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability on an
internal tracking log.
b. The Office of Compliance Civil Rights Coordinator (or her/his designee) notifies the
respective Service Area Grievance Representative of Section 1557 complaints and conducts
investigations of complaints. This investigation may be informal, but it will be thorough,
allowing all interested people to submit evidence relevant to the complaint.
c. The Office of Compliance Civil Rights Coordinator tracks the response time of 1557
complaints to ensure that response letters from the respective Service Areas are mailed out
within thirty (30) days after its filing, along with a notice to the complainant of the
complainant's right to pursue further administrative or legal remedies.
d. The Office of Compliance Civil Rights Coordinator maintains HCA files and records relating to
Section 1557 grievances. To the extent possible, and per applicable law, the Office of
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Compliance Civil Rights Coordinator takes appropriate steps to preserve the confidentiality of
files and records relating to grievances and shares it only with those who need to know.
Appeal Process
2. The person filing the grievance may appeal the decision of the Office of Compliance Civil Rights
Coordinator (or her/his designee) by writing to the Civil Rights Appellate Board within fifteen (15)
days
of receiving the Office of Compliance Civil Rights Coordinator's (or her/his designee's) decision. The
Civil
Rights Appellate Board issues a written decision in response to the appeal no later than thirty (30)
days after its filing.
a. The Civil Rights Appellate Board investigates the appeal complaint.
b. The Civil Rights Appellate Board issues a written decision on the grievance appeal to the Appellant
within thirty (30) days of receipt of the appeal.
c. The Office of Compliance Civil Rights Coordinator maintains copies of all correspondence.
SERVICE AREA. Grievance Procedures
1. If the grievance is related to race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability, the Service Area must
immediately notify the Office of Compliance Civil Rights Coordinator that the grievance is a 1557 issue.
2. The Service Area follows the grievance process per Service Area procedures.
3. The Service Area responds to the complainant:
a. No later than thirty (30) days after the grievance was filed and includes a notice to the complainant
advising the complainant's right to pursue further administrative or legal remedies (paragraph
C(l)).
b. Per Service Area procedures; and
c. With the content of the 1557 Formal Response Addendum (Attachment 1) in the response letter.
4. The Service Area provides copies of all correspondence to the Office of Compliance Civil Rights
Coordinator.
The following explains your right to file a written grievance or complaint to Stephouse Recovery. You can file a
complaint if you believe a serious issue has arisen. If you cannot submit a written complaint, you may instead
explain your complaint in person or over the telephone, or we can help you to make a written complaint.
Grievance Rights
If you are already a participant of Stephouse Recovery or are asking for our help, you have a right to file a written
grievance if you are unhappy with our services. For example, you might want to file a grievance if you believe that
(1) we did not provide you with effective services, (2) we wrongly denied you help, or (3) we violated our legal
obligations. If requested, we can give you more detailed information about what the law requires of our programs.
How to File a Grievance
1. Please mail a letter describing your grievance to the Stephouse Recovery Executive Director. Sign and date
the letter and provide your return address. If you cannot give us a written grievance, you may give us your
grievance verbally (e.g., by telephone or in person) or ask us to help you write it. Note: You must submit
your grievance within 30 days of the incident.
a. Written grievances should be mailed to the attention of the Executive Director of Stephouse
Recovery at 9769 ELLIS AVENUE, FOUNTAIN VALLEY, CA 92708.
b. If you provide a return address, you will receive a written response within 15 days.
2. If you are unhappy with the Executive Director's decision/response, please mail your written appeal to
our Board of Directors asking that the Board review the decision. Sign and date the letter and provide your
return address. If you cannot write your grievance, call our business office and request assistance from
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one of our staff. Note: You must make your appeal within 30 days of receiving the Executive Director's
decision. If the County funds your services, you may contact the Orange County Health Care Agency
Behavioral Health Services to file a grievance or appeal.
3. Written appeals should be mailed to the attention of the Chair of the Board at 9769 Ellis Avenue, Fountain
Valley, CA 92708.
4. If you need more information about your rights under this policy and/or need to make a grievance or
appeal verbally, please call our business office at 888-923-7623.
SPECIAL INCIDENT REPORTING AND NOTIFICATION OF DEATH
A completed Special Incidence Form (SIR), using the OCHCA SIR template will be within 24 hours
of a qualifying incident. Qualifying incidents include:
• Death of a current client, employee, or visitor that occurs on site or offsite during program related
activity.
• Death of a former client that occurs within a year of leaving treatment.
• Injuries (incl. self-injury) requiring professional medical care.
• Automobile accidents
• Acts of negligence or serious breach of staff code of conduct
• Loss or damage to any COUNTY property in program’s possession
• Theft or vandalism which includes staff or clients.
• Violence leading to injury, trauma, or police involvement.
• Overdose of current client. Include use of any naloxone.
• Any sexual contact between client and staff or non-consensual between clients
• Tarasoff threats
• Any incident of a serious nature that exposes the county to liability.
These incidents shall be submitted to program monitor only.
• Injury, self- injury, suicide attempt not requiring professional medical care.
• Inappropriate staff behavior toward clients or other staff
• Any hate crime, or any discrimination or harassment based on race, sexual orientation, gender, or
disability.
• Significant property damage – fire, flood, earthquake
• Physical altercation between residents – no medical care or police involvement
• Discovery of any alcohol or narcotics at the facility
• Drug or alcohol use occurring at the facility.
• Routine illness requiring offsite medical care.
• Positive drug test (excluding at admission)
Additional details that emerge, follow-up and background info shall be provided in addendum within 48
hours of incident.
Email Notification to HPS (SIR form not required):
Notice of any serious contagious medical condition that requires containment, including (but not
limited to): COVID 19, Measles, Mumps and Rubella, Tuberculosis, Chicken Pox, Pertussis (whooping
cough), Hepatitis A, Meningococcal Meningitis – include housing plan for affected clients.
Upon becoming aware of the death of any person served pursuant to the OCHCA Resident Recovery Service
Contract, Stephouse Recovery shall immediately notify OCHCA Program Staff.
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• All Notifications of death shall contain the name of the deceased, the date and time of death, the
nature and circumstances of the death, and the name(s) of Stephouse Recovery Staff with
knowledge of the incident.
• Stephouse Recovery shall notify OCHCA Program Staff by telephone immediately upon becoming
aware of the death due to non-terminal illness of any person served pursuant OCHCA Resident
Recovery Service Contract. Notice will only be given during normal business hours.
• All death reports will be verified by the coroner’s office.
EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN
Call 911 in the event of:
1. Fire
2. Violence or a threat of violence
3. Suspicious persons hanging around premises
4. Burglary
5. A life-threatening medical situation
6. Chest pain
7. Shortness of breath
8. Suicide attempt
9. Unconscious individual
10. Injury in which there is a broken bone or bleeding that cannot be stopped
11. Serious fall
12. Unable to wake someone
13. Ingestion of toxic chemicals or substances
14. Suspected overdose of a substance or alcohol
15. Individual out of control
16. Individual hallucinating
17. Individual having an extreme allergic reaction
18. Extreme paranoid behavior
When overdose is suspected - administer Naloxone to the individual in crisis and dial 911.
After a resident calls 911, they should call the house manager/management and inform them of the
situation. Make sure you move to a safe place to wait for the arrival of emergency assistance. DO NOT try to
move an injured person, give First Aid or CPR unless you are qualified.
Upon intake, the House Manager will ensure that all residents are aware of the emergency exit routes and
location of fire extinguishers for the residence. Phone numbers for the House Manager, Stephouse Recovery
Management, and OC HCA Program Officers shall be kept current on the bulletin board in the common area
of the residence.
FACILITY REQUIREMENTS
THE RECOVERY RESIDENCE FACILITY SHALL BE CLEAN, SAFE, SANITARY, AND IN GOOD REPAIR AT ALL
TIMES AND SHALL INCLUDE:
a. An alcohol and drug free living environment
b. Safe sleeping quarters, a separate bed for each client, closet and dresser space, clean linen
in good repair, including lightweight, warm blankets; top and bottom sheets; pillowcases;
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mattress pads; bath towels and wash cloths.
c. Bedrooms shall not be overcrowded, allowing 70 square feet for the first two people and
50 square feet for each additional person in bedrooms, unless given prior written approval
by the County of Orange
d. Basic living facilities including but not limited to: adequate bathing, hand washing and
toilet facilities, lounge area, and dining area with adequate seating.
e. Laundry facilities and laundry supplies at no cost to the Client.
f. Toiletry articles appropriate to the health and grooming needs of the Client.
MANDATORY POSTINGS FOR HOUSES
The following documents are required to be posted at all County contracted Recovery Residence
Services homes:
• Current Copy of the Sheriff Certification- Expires _j _j
• House Rules, Visitation, and Non-Smoking rules if they are not noted in the House Rules
(including a curfew and visitation hours)
• Current Copy of the Sheriff Certification Guidelines
• House manager information/ Hours that individual staff members will be on site
• Prohibition against Alcohol and Non-Prescription Drugs
• Sexual Harassment of Client or Staff is Prohibited Notice
• Grievance Procedure
• Good Neighbor Policy
• Client Sign-In/Sign-Out Log
• Evacuation plan
• List of resources within the community that includes medical, dental, mental health, public
health, and social services.
• Where to apply to determine eligibility for state, federal, or county entitlement programs.
• Information on self-help meetings. AA, NA, and non-12-step meetings.
HOUSE LOG POLICY
Stephouse Recovery shall maintain a house log on each shift supervised by a designated staff
member. The log shall be used to document staff and shift changes at the Recovery Residence and
client and staff related incidents (e.g., altercations, curfew infractions, policy breaches by clients and
staff, etc.). The log provides a space to document the date, time of the incident, and the printed name,
signature, and title of the staff member completing the entry.
COVID-19 CORONAVIRUS POLICY
The COVID-19 situation is changing rapidly, and we recommend that staff and clients monitor the
information from the CDC and CA Governor's State of Emergency for updates.
In response to the State Public Health Officer Order dated August 9, 2021, Stephouse Recovery is providing
this plan to address vaccine status verification, masking requirements, and COVID-19 testing requirements.
If you believe you may have been exposed to COVID-19 or have symptoms that may indicate exposure,
please contact your supervisor as soon as possible and before coming to work.
Symptoms that may indicate exposure to COVID-19 include any one of the following:
• Cough
• Fever
• Loss of smell
• Muscle aches
• Runny nose
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• Shortness of breath
• Sore throat
Employee and Client policies and protocols
1. All Stephouse Recovery staff and clients must self-monitor for symptoms concerning COVID-19
infection. If a client displays symptoms or has a high fever, staff will contact the HCA COVID-19
Disease Control for Shelters Help Line to help the client get connected with testing and quarantining
at a hotel if necessary.
2. Stephouse Recovery will contact HCA COVID-19 Disease Control for Shelters Help Line: (714) 567-
6246 if we have a question or need assistance related to a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 case.
3. Stephouse Recovery follows the most current CDC recommendations for quarantining following
exposure to COVID-19.
4. Asymptomatic healthcare workers are to follow protocols in accordance with current state
regulations before returning to work after potential COVID-19 exposure.
5. Staff under quarantine due to COVID-19, who are not required to be onsite, may work remotely with
approval from their direct supervisor.
6. You might be asked to practice self-quarantine if you have recently returned from traveling to a part
of the country or the world where COVID-19 is spreading rapidly or if you have knowingly been
exposed to an infected person.
At Stephouse Recovery, self-quarantine involves:
• Using standard hygiene and washing hands frequently
• Not sharing things like towels and utensils
• Staying in your room and asking for assistance from staff
• Staying at least 6 feet away from other people in your household
• Always wearing an FDA-cleared surgical mask
Once a quarantine period has ended, and the person no longer has symptoms, staff must produce a negative
COVID-19 test before returning to work. Clients must provide a negative COVID-19 test before returning to
a normal house routine.
Respirator and Masking Requirements
Stephouse Recovery monitors and follows current California Department of Public Health (CDPH) COVID-
19 masking requirements. Stephouse Recovery reserves the right, at our discretion, to go above and
beyond CDPH masking requirements in our facilities. Stephouse Recovery will regularly update staff on
facility masking requirements via written memorandum. When required, staff may only wear FDA-cleared
surgical masks provided by Stephouse Recovery. Cloth and other non-FDA-cleared face coverings are not
allowed. When required, workers, regardless of vaccination status, must wear masks in indoor settings and
anywhere they are working with another person. Stephouse Recovery does not use respirators in our
facilities.
Testing Requirements
Stephouse Recovery abides by the most current CDPH COVID-19 testing requirements. Asymptomatic
unvaccinated, or incompletely vaccinated workers may be tested at least once weekly with either PCR or
antigen testing. Unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated workers must also observe all other infection
control requirements, including masking, and are not exempted from testing requirements even if they have
a medical contraindication to vaccination as they are still potentially able to spread the illness. Persons
with a previous history of COVID-19 from which the individual recovered more than 90 days earlier or a
previous positive antibody test for COVID-19 do not waive requirements for testing. Diagnostic screening
testing of asymptomatic fully vaccinated workers is not currently required. Stephouse Recovery is required
to track test results, conduct workplace contact tracing, and must report results to local public health
departments.
Intake Screening:
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During intake, all clients at Stephouse Recovery have their temperature taken (must be less than 100.4
degrees to be admitted) and are screened for any presenting illness with the following questions:
• Do you have any aches or chills?
• Do you have a headache?
• Do you have a cough?
• Are you experiencing shortness of breath?
• Do you have any other symptoms of illness?
Social Distancing, Hygiene, Cleanliness
At Stephouse Recovery, we have implemented and encouraged social distancing at all our facilities by
promoting the following:
• Clients are to stay at least 6 feet (2 meters) from other people
• Stay home whenever possible
• Do not gather in groups inside or outside of the home
• When out of the home, stay out of crowded places and avoid mass gatherings
• COVID-19 safety is discussed in house meetings at the homes, and there are postings at the front
door of each home.
Additionally, Stephouse Recovery clients are encouraged to:
• Wash hands thoroughly
• Clean and disinfect surfaces frequently
• Use hand sanitizer
• Cover mouth when coughing
• Wear masks or facial cover
STAFF REQUIREMENTS FOR EMPLOYMENT
All candidates for full or part-time employment, volunteers, and interns, prior to starting services, shall meet
the following requirements:
1. No person shall have been convicted of a sex offense for which the person must register as a sex
offender under PC section 290.
2. No person shall have been convicted of arson violating PC sections 451, 451.1, 451.5,
452,45231,453,454, or 455.
3. No person shall have been convicted of any violent felony as defined in PC section 667.5, which involves
doing bodily harm to another person for which the staff member was convicted within five (5) years
prior to employment.
4. No person shall be on parole or probation.
5. No person shall participate in the criminal activities of a criminal street gang and/or prison gang.
6. No person shall have a prior employment history of improper conduct, including but not limited to
forging or falsifying documents or drug tests, sexual assault or sexual harassment, or inappropriate
behavior with staff or residents at another treatment facility.
7. The Compliance Officer will be notified of any changes in the personnel holding staff positions.
Exceptions to staffing requirements set forth above may be requested if Stephouse Recovery deems the
decision will benefit the program. Requests for exceptions shall be submitted in writing and also may need to
be approved in advance by OCHCA.
BACKGROUND SCREENING – Stephouse Recovery screens all candidates before their date of hire.
Fingerprinting live scans are required for licensed clinical staff. All new staff must also pass a background
check, including volunteers and interns. Stephouse Recovery background check includes the following
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1. A National and County Search for prior infractions, misdemeanors, felony convictions, and pending
cases found at the state or county level.
2. A search of the National Sex Offenders registry
3. A Global Watchlist Search to screen for suspected terrorists, money launderers, fraudsters, politically
exposed persons (PEPs), adverse media, or sanctions lists maintained by governments and regulatory
agencies.
4. A social security number trace.
5. A motor vehicle report.
6. The Orange County Courts database.
7. The Megan’s Law website.
8. The Office of Inspector General’s exclusions list.
9. CA Medi-Cal exclusions list
10. The System for Award Management (Sam.gov) website, the US government exclusions list
CONFLICT OF INTEREST- Employees are forbidden from engaging in any other business that competes with
Stephouse Recovery. Also, employees are forbidden from obtaining a financial interest in an outside concern
that does business with or is a competitor of Stephouse Recovery (except where such ownership consists of
securities of a publicly owned corporation regularly traded on the public stock market). Rendering of the
directive, managerial, or consulting services to any outside concerns that does business with or is a competitor
of Stephouse Recovery (except with the knowledge and written consent of Stephouse Recovery) is also
prohibited. If you think that there is a possibility that you may have a conflict, it is your responsibility to notify
Stephouse Recovery and obtain approval in writing.
TRAINING – All employees, select contractors, interns, and volunteers are required to complete a staff
orientation that includes a review of Stephouse Recovery Policies and Procedures and expectations for
performance. All staff must complete the following within six months of beginning work with Stephouse
Recovery:
1. Orange County Healthcare Agency (OCHCA) Annual Provider Training
2. OCHCA Annual Compliance Training
3. Cultural Competency Training
4. Infectious Disease Recognition
5. Crisis Intervention
6. HIPAA Privacy and Confidentiality
7. Alcohol and Substance Abuse related training
8. CPR & Basic First Aid
9. Recognizing Symptoms Requiring Appropriate Referral
EMPLOYEE FILE POLICY
Each employee file must contain the following:
Application for Employment Drug & Alcohol Testing Consent & Results
Resume TB Skin Test Report (conducted annually)
Job Description - signed COVID vaccination card
Background Check w/signed consent COVID Vaccine Status Certification
Copy of Driver’s License Masking & Testing Requirements Attestation
Proof of Car Insurance Probationary Period Acknowledgement
Copy of Social Security Card Confidentiality Agreement
Form I-9 Code of Conduct
W-4 HIPAA Agreement
Wage & Hour/Meal Break Acknowledgment Anti-Defamation Clause
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Training Certificates Employee Handbook Acknowledgement
Exclusions & County Screening Print Outs
OCHCA COMPLIANCE PROGRAM ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The Chief Executive Officer shall acknowledge in writing, on behalf of Stephouse Recovery, that he is aware of
and will adhere to the County of Orange Health Care Agency's Compliance Program, Code of Conduct, and
related policies and procedures and shall ensure Stephouse Recovery employees, subcontractors, interns,
volunteers, and members of Board of Directors or duly authorized agents (if appropriate), relative to the
Agreement(s) for the Provision of AB 109 RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT SERVICES and Recovery Residence
Services are made aware of and adhere to the County of Orange Health Care Agency's Compliance Program,
Code of Conduct, and related policies and procedures. A signed copy of the acknowledgment shall remain on
file with Stephouse Recovery compliance documents.
LITERATURE, ADVERTISEMENTS, AND SOCIAL MEDIA COMPLIANCE
A. Any written information or literature, including educational or promotional materials, distributed by
Stephouse Recovery to any person or organization for purposes directly or indirectly related to this
Contract must be approved at least thirty (30) days in advance and in writing by ADMINISTRATOR before
distribution. For the purposes of this Contract, distribution of written materials shall include, but not be
limited to, pamphlets, brochures, flyers, newspaper or magazine ads, and electronic media such as the
Internet.
B. Any advertisement through radio, television broadcast, or the Internet, for educational or promotional
purposes, made by Stephouse Recovery for purposes directly or indirectly related to this Contract must be
approved in advance at least thirty (30) days and in writing by ADMINISTRATOR.
C. If Stephouse Recovery uses social media (such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube or other publicly available
social media sites) in support of the services described within this Contract, Stephouse Recovery shall
develop social media policies and procedures and have them available to ADMINISTRATOR upon
reasonable notice. Stephouse Recovery shall inform ADMINISTRATOR of all forms of social media used to
either directly or indirectly support the services described within this Contract. Stephouse Recovery shall
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developed in support of the services described within this Contract. Stephouse Recovery shall also include
any required funding statement information on social media when required by ADMINISTRATOR.
D. Any information as described in Subparagraphs A. and B. above shall not imply endorsement by
COUNTY, unless ADMINISTRATOR consents thereto in writing.
E. Stephouse Recovery shall also clearly explain through these materials that there shall be no unlawful use
of drugs or alcohol associated with the services provided pursuant to this Contract, as specified in HSC,
§11999-11999.3.
For additional information, policy, and procedure regarding social media please refer to
Addendum A.
NO PROSELYTIZING POLICY
Stephouse Recovery shall not conduct any proselytizing activities, regardless of funding
sources, with respect to any person who has been referred to Stephouse Recovery by the
County under the terms of the Agreement.
Stephouse Recovery agrees that funds provided by County shall not be used to promote, directly
or indirectly, any religion, religious creed or cult, denomination or sectarian institution, or
religious belief.
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CODE OF CONDUCT
I acknowledge that I am aware of and will adhere to the Stephouse Recovery Code of Conduct and related
policies and procedures, which are as follows:
Employees, subcontractors, interns, volunteers, members of the Board of Directors, and duly authorized agents
• are prohibited from manufacturing, cultivating, distributing, dispensing, possessing, or using illegal
drugs (including marijuana) or other unauthorized or mind-altering or intoxicating substances while on
Stephouse Recovery's property (including parking areas and grounds), or while otherwise performing
work duties away from Stephouse Recovery's property. This prohibition includes lawfully controlled
substances that have been illegally or improperly obtained. This policy does not prohibit the possession
and proper use of lawfully prescribed drugs taken in accordance with the prescription. Off-duty
possession, use, sale, or purchase of mind- altering substances and off-premises alcohol abuse is also
prohibited. Alcohol abuse for the purpose of this off-duty conduct rule includes unruly behavior by an
employee, which may tend to harm the reputation of Stephouse Recovery.
• are committed to contributing to a work environment that is free of unlawful harassment.
• always maintain the respect and dignity of each client.
• are prohibited from engaging in abuse. Abuse is defined as the willful infliction of injury, unreasonable
confinement, intimidation, punishment, humiliating, harassing, or threatening, resulting in physical
harm, pain, or mental anguish. Any verbal, emotional, or physical abuse towards clients, visitors, and/or
other staff is strictly prohibited.
• always maintain a professional relationship with all clients. This includes avoiding all conflicts of
interest, fraternization, and/or any sexual contact with clients.
• are strictly prohibited from all forms of unlawful harassment, which includes harassment based on race,
religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status,
uniform service member status, marital status, pregnancy, age, protected medical condition, genetic
information, disability, or any other category protected by applicable state or federal law. To prohibit
sexual harassment includes a broad spectrum of conduct, including harassment based on gender and
gender orientation (meaning one's heterosexuality, homosexuality, bisexuality, etc.).
• committed to encouraging residents to accept personal responsibility for their behavior.
• do not engage in romantic and sexual relationships with other employees or clients. Intimate or
physical (especially sexual) relationships between staff or members of the board of directors and clients
are strictly prohibited. This provision will remain in force throughout the client’s length of program
service and until they have been out of the program for a minimum of six months.
• prohibited from engaging in any other business that competes with Stephouse Recovery and will avoid
conflicts of interest and interference with the productivity of other employees.
• acknowledge that clients cannot be admitted to the program where a familial relationship exists with an
employee of the facility. Business transactions between staff and clients (or their families) are not
permitted without administrative approval.
• forbidden from obtaining a financial interest in an outside concern that does business with or is a
competitor of Stephouse Recovery (except where such ownership consists of securities of a publicly
owned corporation regularly traded on the public stock market). Rendering of directive, managerial, or
consulting services to any outside concern that does business with or is a competitor of Stephouse
Recovery (except with the knowledge and written consent of Stephouse Recovery) is also prohibited. If
you think that there is a possibility that you may have a conflict, it is your responsibility to notify
Stephouse Recovery and obtain approval in writing.
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• understanding that records and files related to Stephouse Recovery business and clients are the
property of Stephouse Recovery and are considered confidential. Confidential information includes all
letters or any other information concerning transactions with customers, customer lists, payroll or
personnel records of past or present employees, financial records, all records pertaining to purchases
from vendors or suppliers, correspondence and agreements with manufacturers or distributors, and
documents concerning operating procedures. All telephone calls, letters, or other requests for
information about current or former employees should be immediately directed to management. Any
information, recorded or not, relating to a client of any Stephouse facility is confidential and protected
by the Code of Federal Regulations Title 42, Chapter 1, Part 2; the State of California Welfare &
Institution Code, Sections 5326-5330, and other provisions. These regulations prohibit the disclosure of
information either while employed or afterward.
DUTIES of DIRECTOR and HEAD of ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
Duties of Director- The director, also known as the manager of recovery residence, is responsible for
supervising all clients and all staff employed by or volunteering for the facility. They are responsible
for the overall management, safety, compliance, and performance of the organization and each of the
residences.
Duties of House Manager- Each recovery residence shall have a designated house manager or person
of some authority who resides at the facility. The house manager shall
1. Generally, monitor residents daily
2. Observe, document, and report resident behavior/progress consistently and continuously.
3. Maintains resident privacy and confidentiality in compliance with HIPAA and other state and federal
regulations.
4. Maintains a clean, healthy, and safe environment.
5. Ensures and monitors that each resident has a chore that is completed daily.
6. Report any need for facility maintenance or repairs that may be necessary to operate the home safely to
management.
7. Monitor and report on resident curfews: 11:00 PM (with job and sponsor)/10:00 PM (without a job or
sponsor) Sun-Thurs; 12:00 (everyone) Fri & Sat.
8. Communicate with the Director when issues are encountered, e.g., relapses, emergencies, behavioral
incidents, family issues, etc.
9. House Managers may not engage in dual relationships with residents. Dual relationships include but
are not limited to sexual relations or other sexual acts, going into business together, or employment.
Stephouse Recovery shall post the telephone number of designated on-call staff immediately upon the
absence of Stephouse Recovery’s house manager and/or Director at the facility.
EMPLOYMENT EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMPLIANCE
Stephouse Recovery is committed to equal employment opportunity and employs all qualified persons
without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, uniform service
member/veteran status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic
information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, or any
other classification protected by federal, state, and local laws. Harassment of any kind will not be
tolerated.
Stephouse Recovery shall also not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment in the
areas of employment, promotion, demotion, or transfer; recruitment or recruitment advertising, layoff, or
termination; compensation, benefits, leaves of absence, selection for training, including apprenticeship,
and other terms and conditions of employment. Stephouse Recovery shall display notices from The County
of Orange and the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission setting forth the provisions
of the Equal Opportunity clause.
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All solicitations or advertisements for employees placed by or on behalf of Stephouse Recovery shall state
that all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religious
creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic
information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, or
military and veteran status.
ANTI-HARASSMENT POLICY & COMPLAINT PROCEDURE
Stephouse Recovery strives to create and maintain a work environment where people are treated with
dignity, decency, and respect. The environment of the company should be characterized by mutual trust
and the absence of intimidation, oppression, and exploitation. Stephouse Recovery will not tolerate
unlawful discrimination or harassment of any kind. Through enforcement of this policy and by education
of employees, Stephouse Recovery will seek to prevent, correct, and discipline behavior that violates this
policy.
All employees, regardless of their positions, are covered by and are expected to comply with this policy
and to take appropriate measures to ensure that prohibited conduct does not occur. Appropriate
disciplinary action will be taken against any employee who violates this policy. Based on the seriousness
of the offense, disciplinary action may include verbal or written reprimand, suspension, or termination of
employment.
Managers and supervisors who knowingly allow or tolerate discrimination, harassment, or retaliation,
including the failure to immediately report such misconduct to management, violate this policy and are
subject to discipline.
Prohibited Conduct Under This Policy
Stephouse Recovery, in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local anti-discrimination and
harassment laws and regulations, enforces this policy in accordance with the following definitions and
guidelines:
Discrimination
It is a violation of Stephouse’s policy to discriminate in the provision of employment opportunities,
benefits, or privileges; to create discriminatory work conditions; or to use discriminatory evaluative
standards in employment if the basis of that discriminatory treatment is, in whole or in part, the person's
race (including hairstyle/texture), color, national origin, age, religion, disability status, sex, sexual
orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information or marital status.
Discrimination of this kind may also be strictly prohibited by various federal, state, and local laws,
including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Age Discrimination Act of 1967, and the Americans
with Disabilities Act of 1990. This policy is intended to comply with the prohibitions stated in these anti-
discrimination laws. Discrimination in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary measures up
to and including termination.
Harassment
Stephouse Recovery prohibits harassment of any kind, including sexual harassment, and will take
appropriate and immediate action in response to complaints or knowledge of violations of this policy. For
purposes of this policy, harassment is any verbal or physical conduct designed to threaten,
intimidate, or coerce an employee, co-worker, or any person working for or on behalf of Stephouse
Recovery.
The following examples of harassment are intended to be guidelines and are not exclusive when
determining whether there has been a violation of this policy:
• Verbal harassment includes comments that are offensive or unwelcome regarding a person's
national origin, race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, appearance,
disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, or another protected status, including
epithets, slurs, and negative stereotyping.
• Nonverbal harassment includes distribution, display, or discussion of any written or graphic
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material that ridicules, denigrates, insults, belittles, or shows hostility, aversion, or disrespect
toward an individual or group because of national origin, race, color, religion, age, gender,
sexual orientation, pregnancy, appearance, disability, sexual identity, marital status or
another protected status.
Sexual harassment
Sexual harassment is a form of unlawful employment discrimination under Title VII of the Civil
Rights Act of 1964 and is prohibited under Stephouse's anti-harassment policy. According to the
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), sexual harassment is defined as "unwelcome
sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature ...
when ... submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as the basis for employment decisions ... or
such conduct has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive working
environment."
Sexual harassment occurs when unsolicited and unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual
favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature:
• Is made explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of employment.
• Is used as a basis for an employment decision.
• Unreasonably interferes with an employee's work performance or creates an intimidating,
hostile, or otherwise offensive environment.
Sexual harassment may take different forms. The following examples of sexual harassment are
intended to be guidelines and are not exclusive when determining whether there has been a
violation of this policy:
• Verbal sexual harassment includes innuendoes, suggestive comments, jokes of a sexual
nature, sexual propositions, lewd remarks, and threats; requests for any type of sexual favor
(this includes repeated, unwelcome requests for dates); and verbal abuse or "kidding" that is
oriented toward a prohibitive form of harassment, including that which is sexual in nature
and unwelcome.
• Nonverbal sexual harassment includes the distribution, display, or discussion of any written
or graphic material, including calendars, posters, and cartoons that are sexually suggestive or
show hostility toward an individual or group because of sex; sugges tive or insulting sounds;
leering; staring; whistling; obscene gestures; content in letters, notes, facsimiles, e -mails,
photos, text messages, tweets, and Internet postings; or other forms of communication that
are sexual in nature and offensive.
• Physical sexual harassment includes unwelcome, unwanted physical contact, including
touching, tickling, pinching, patting, brushing up against, hugging, cornering, kissing, fondling,
and forced sexual intercourse or assault.
Courteous, mutually respectful, pleasant, noncoercive interactions between employees that are
appropriate in the workplace and acceptable to and welcomed by both parties are not considered to
be harassment, including sexual harassment.
Retaliation
No hardship, loss, benefit, or penalty may be imposed on an employee in response to:
• Filing or responding to a bona fide complaint of discrimination or harassment.
• Appearing as a witness in the investigation of a complaint.
• Serving as an investigator of a complaint.
Lodging a bona fide complaint will not be used against the employee or adversely impact the
individual's employment status. However, filing groundless or malicious complaints is an abuse of
this policy and will be treated as a violation.
Any person who is found to have violated this aspect of the policy will be subject to discipline up to
and including termination of employment.
Confidentiality
All complaints and investigations are treated confidentially to the extent possible, and information is
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disclosed strictly on a need-to-know basis. The identity of the complainant is usually revealed to the
parties involved during the investigation, and the HR director will take adequate steps to ensure that
the complainant is protected from retaliation during and after the investigation. All information
pertaining to a complaint or investigation under this policy will be maintained in secure files within
the HR department.
Complaint procedure
Stephouse Recovery has established the following procedure for lodging a complaint of harassment,
discrimination, or retaliation. The company will treat all aspects of the procedure confidentially to
the extent reasonably possible.
1. Complaints should be submitted as soon as possible after an incident has occurred,
preferably in writing. The Director may assist the complainant in completing a written
statement or, in the event an employee refuses to provide information in writing, the Director
will dictate the verbal complaint.
2. Upon receiving a complaint or being advised by a supervisor or manager that a policy
violation may occur, the Director will notify senior management and review the complaint with
the company's legal counsel.
3. The Director will initiate an investigation to determine whether there is a reasonable
basis for believing that the alleged violation of this policy occurred.
4. If necessary, the complainant and the respondent will be separated during the course of
the investigation, either through internal transfer or administrative leave.
5. During the investigation, the Director, legal counsel, and other management employees
will interview the complainant, the respondent, and any witnesses to determine whether the
alleged conduct occurred.
6. Upon conclusion of an investigation, the Director or other person conducting the
investigation will submit a written report of his or her findings to the company. If it is
determined that a violation of this policy has occurred, the Director will recommend
appropriate disciplinary action. The appropriate action will depend on the following factors:
a) the severity, frequency, and pervasiveness of the conduct
b) prior complaints made by the complainant
c) prior complaints made against the respondent; and
d) the quality of the evidence (e.g., firsthand knowledge, credible corroboration).
If the investigation is inconclusive or if it is determined that there has been no violation of policy but
potentially problematic conduct may have occurred, the Director may recommend appropriate
preventive action.
7. Senior management will review the investigative report and any statements submitted by
the complainant or respondent, discuss the results of the investigation with the Director and
other management staff as appropriate, and decide what action, if any, will be taken.
8. Once a final decision is made by senior management, the Director will meet with the
complainant and the respondent separately and notify them of the findings of the investigation.
If disciplinary action is to be taken, the respondent will be informed of the nature of the
discipline and how it will be executed.
Alternative legal remedies
Nothing in this policy may prevent the complainant or the respondent from pursuing formal legal
remedies or resolution through local, state, or federal agencies or the courts.
STAFF DRUG TEST POLICY
• All staff must be drug tested within the first 30 days of employment.
• Staff will be drug tested annually after the initial test.
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• Staff may be drug tested if under suspicion or requested by management.
• All employees who test positive in a confirmed substance test will be subject to
discipline up to and including termination.
• Employees will be held accountable to the Stephouse Recovery Guidelines on
Drug Testing provided to them in Employee Packet.
Who is Tested
1. Employees may be required to submit to drug/alcohol screening whenever
Stephouse Recovery has a reasonable suspicion that they have violated any of the
rules set forth in this policy or in the Stephouse Recovery Code of Conduct. Reasonable
suspicion may arise from, among other factors, supervisory observation, co-worker
reports or complaints, performance decline, attendance or behavioral changes, results
of drug searches or other detection methods.
2. Employees in safety sensitive positions may be tested on a random or periodic
basis to the extent permitted by applicable state and federal laws. In addition, various
job classifications are categorically subject to random or periodic drug testing to the
extent permitted by applicable state and federal laws. Employees involved in a work-
related injury or accident may also be subject to testing.
STAFF DISCHARGE PROCEDURE
When a staff member quits, is terminated, or laid off, Stephouse Recovery will inform Orange
County Health Care Agency. Any changes in the personnel holding staff positions must be quickly
communicated.
DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE POLICY
It is the policy of The Stephouse Recovery to comply with local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and
standards. Our Health and Safety policy outlines the written procedures to ensure the facility is
maintained in a clean, safe, sanitary condition and is an alcohol and drug free environment for staff and
clients.
Alcohol and Drug Use - Every employee must fully familiarize themselves with the Stephouse
Recovery stance on being drug free. Drinking alcoholic beverages on the job or reporting to work
while under the influence of alcohol and/or any other drug or narcotic, or at any time on or off the
job for the recovery staff, is strictly prohibited.
INSPECTIONS AND AUDITS
OCHCA, any authorized representative of OCHCA, any authorized representative of the State of
California, the Secretary of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, the
Comptroller General of the United States, or any other of their authorized representatives, shall to
the extent permissible under applicable law have access to any books, documents, and records,
including but not limited to, financial statements, general ledgers, relevant accounting systems,
medical and Client records, of Stephouse Recovery that are directly pertinent to this Agreement, for
the purpose of responding to a beneficiary complaint or conducting an audit, review, evaluation, or
examination, or making transcripts during the periods of retention set forth in the Records
Management and Maintenance Paragraph of Contract Agreement. Such persons may at all
reasonable times inspect or otherwise evaluate the services provided pursuant to the Contract
Agreement, and the premises in which they are provided.
Stephouse Recovery shall actively participate and cooperate with any person specified in the
paragraph above in any evaluation or monitoring of the services provided pursuant to the Contract
Agreement and shall provide the above-mentioned persons adequate office space to conduct such
evaluation or monitoring.
AUDIT RESPONSE Following an audit report, in the event of non-compliance with applicable
laws and regulations governing funds provided through the Contract Agreement, OCHCA may
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terminate the Agreement as provided in the Termination Paragraph or direct Stephouse Recovery
to implement appropriate corrective action immediately. A CAP shall be submitted to OCHCA in
writing within thirty (30) calendar days after receiving notice from OCHCA. 2. If the audit reveals
that money is payable from one Party to the other, that is, reimbursement by Stephouse Recovery to
OCHCA, or payment of sums due from OCHCA to Stephouse Recovery, said funds shall be due and
payable from one Party to the other within sixty (60) calendar days of receipt of the audit
results. If reimbursement is due from Stephouse Recovery to OCHCA, and such reimbursement is
not received within said sixty (60) calendar days, OCHCA may, in addition to any other remedies
provided by law, reduce any amount owed Stephouse Recovery by an amount not to exceed the
reimbursement due OCHCA.
A. Stephouse Recovery shall forward to OCHCA a copy of any audit report within fourteen (14)
calendar days of receipt. Such audit shall include, but not be limited to, management, financial,
programmatic, or any other type of audit of STEP HOUSE RECOVERY's operations, whether the cost
of such operation or audit is reimbursed in whole or in part through the Agreement.
REPORTING AND BILLING POLICY AND PROCEDURE
REPORTS – Stephouse Recovery shall submit a monthly program report to the County of Orange no
later than the 10th calendar day following the reporting month.
1. Monthly program reports shall include:
a. completion, retention, and abstinence rates
b. challenges with implementing the provisions of the County Agreement and a statement
that Stephouse Recovery is or is NOT progressing satisfactorily in achieving all the terms
of the County Agreement.
c. pertinent facts and interim findings
d. staff changes
e. status of license(s) and certification(s)
f. changes in the population served and reasons for any changes
COMPLIANCE
To ensure adherence to all rules and regulations related to federal and state health care programs,
Stephouse Recovery will comply with the Orange County Compliance Program, and Code of Conduct, and
make available General Compliance Training and education to Covered Individuals.
Stephouse Recovery has designated a Compliance Officer who is responsible for compliance policies and
procedures and tracking required training. The Compliance Officer will conduct internal monitoring and
auditing and other elements as outlined by the Orange County Compliance Program.
Stephouse Recovery will screen all Covered Individuals employed or retained at hire and then monthly
thereafter against:
• General Services Administrations Excluded Parties List System or
• System for Award Management and
• Health and Human Services/Office of Inspector General List of Excluded Individuals/Entities and
• The California Medi-Cal Suspended and Ineligible Provider List and
• Social Security Administration Death Master File
Screening is completed to ensure no Covered Individual is designated as an Ineligible Person**.
*Covered Individual is defined as all employees, interns, volunteers, contractors, subcontractors, agents,
and other persons who provide health care items, and services, or who perform billing or coding functions.
**Ineligible Person is defined as any individual or entity who:
● Is currently excluded, suspended, debarred or otherwise ineligible to participate in federal and state
health care programs; or
● Has been convicted of a criminal offense related to the provision of health care items or services and
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has not been reinstated in the federal and state health care programs after a period of exclusion,
suspension, debarment, or ineligibility.
Covered Individuals are required to disclose to Stephouse Recovery management of any new events that
may designate individuals as Ineligible Persons. Stephouse will immediately notify Orange County of any
status of change of Covered Individuals. Stephouse will immediately remove Ineligible Persons from
involvement with Orange County program operations.
GENERAL AND SPECIALIZED PROVIDER COMPLIANCE TRAINING
The County of Orange shall make General Compliance Training available to covered individuals:
• Stephouse shall use its best effort to encourage completion by all covered individuals. At a
minimum Stephouse Recovery shall assign at least one designated representative to complete
the General Compliance Training when it is available.
• Training will be completed within 30 calendar days of employment or engagement.
• Training is to be renewed annually.
• Covered individuals attending group training must certify in writing their attendance of
compliance training. *The County of Orange shall provide instruction on group training
completion.
The County of Orange shall make specialized provider training available to covered individuals.
• Stephouse shall ensure all covered individuals complete this training.
• Training will be completed within 30 days of employment or engagement.
• Training is to be renewed annually.
Covered individuals attending group training must certify in writing their attendance of compliance
training. *The County of Orange shall provide instruction on group training completion.
MEDICAL BILLING, CODING, AND
DOCUMENTATION COMPLIANCE STANDARDS
• Stephouse Recovery shall take reasonable precautions to ensure that the coding of claims,
billings and or invoices are prepared and submitted in an accurate and timely manner
consistent with federal, state, and county laws and regulations, including the Centers for
Medicare and Medicaid Services or their agents.
• Stephouse Recovery will not submit false claims.
• Stephouse Recovery shall bill for eligible services rendered and fully documented. Must
ensure compliance with all billing and documentation requirements.
• Stephouse Recovery will promptly investigate and correct any problems or errors in the
coding of claims and billing.
• Stephouse Recovery has 45 business days to return any overpayment.
• Stephouse Recovery will meet HCA MHP Quality Management Program Standards and
participate in the quality improvement activities developed in implementing the Quality
Management Program.
• Stephouse Recovery shall maintain the confidentiality of all records, including billings, and
audio and video recordings, in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and county codes
and regulations such as 42 SS USC 299dd-2.
• All Stephouse Recovery employees shall agree, in writing, with Stephouse Recovery to maintain
the confidentiality of all info and records.
INSURANCE STANDARDS
Stephouse Recovery will retain insurance coverage from a carrier with a minimum rating of A- (Secure A.M.
Best's Rating) and VIII (Financial Size Category as determined by the most current edition of the Best's Key
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Rating Guide/Property–Casualty/United States or ambest.com). Stephouse Recovery is licensed in the state
of California. Stephouse Recovery will retain the following types of coverage:
• Commercial General Liability
• Automobile Liability (Stephouse Recovery will ensure that employees, where applicable,
shall retain the same)
• Workers' Compensation
• Employers' Liability Insurance
• Network Security & Privacy Liability
• Professional Liability Insurance
• Sexual Misconduct Liability Insurance
Required Coverage Form:
1. The Commercial General Liability coverage shall be written on ISO form CG 00 01, or a substitute
form providing liability coverage at least as broad.
2. The Business Automobile Liability coverage shall be written on ISO form CA 00 01, CA 00 OS, CA
00 12, CA 0020, or a substitute form providing coverage at least as broad.
Required Endorsements:
The Commercial General Liability policy shall contain the following endorsements, which shall accompany
the COI (Certificate of Insurance):
• An Additional Insured endorsement using ISO form CG 20 26 04 13 or a form at least as broad
naming the County of Orange, its elected and appointed officials, officers, employees, and
agents as Additional Insureds, or provide blanket coverage, which will state as required by
written agreement.
• A primary non-contributing endorsement using ISO form CG 20 01 04 13, or a form at least as
broad evidencing that Stephouse Recovery's insurance is primary, and any insurance or self-
insurance maintained by the County of Orange shall be excess and non-contributing.
**The Commercial General Liability policy shall contain a "severability of interests" clause, also
known as a "separation of insureds" clause (standard in the ISO CG 0001 policy).
The Network Security and Privacy Liability policy shall contain the following endorsements, which shall
accompany the Certificate of Insurance:
• An Additional Insured endorsement naming the County of Orange, its elected and appointed
officials, officers, agents, and employees as Additional Insureds for its vicarious liability.
• A primary and non-contributing endorsement evidencing that Stephouse Recovery insurance is
primary, and any insurance or self-insurance maintained by the County of Orange shall be excess
and non-contributing.
The Workers' Compensation policy shall contain:
• A waiver of subrogation endorsement waiving all rights of subrogation against the County of
Orange, its elected and appointed officials, officers, agents, and employees, or provide blanket
coverage, which will state As Required by Written Agreement
**Stephouse Recovery shall notify County in writing within thirty (30) days of any policy cancellation
and within ten (10) days for non-payment of premium and provide a copy of the cancellation
notice to County. Failure to provide written notice of cancellation shall constitute a breach of
Stephouse Recovery’s obligation hereunder and grounds for County to terminate the Agreement.
**If Professional Liability and/or Network Security and Privacy Liability are "claims made" policies,
Stephouse Recovery shall agree to maintain coverage for two (2) years following the completion of the
Agreement.
SUBMISSION OF INSURANCE DOCUMENTS
1. The COI and endorsements shall be provided to County as follows:
a. Prior to the start of this Agreement
b. No later than the expiration date for each policy
c. Within thirty (30) calendar days upon receipt of written notice by the County regarding
changes to any of the insurance types
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2. The COI and endorsements shall be provided to the County at the address specified in the
Referenced Contract Provision of this Agreement.
3. If Stephouse Recovery fails to submit the COI and endorsements that meet the insurance
provisions stipulated in this Agreement by the above specified due dates, The County of Orange
shall have sole discretion to impose one or both of the following:
a. May withhold or delay any or all payments due Stephouse Recovery until it is
submitted to The County of Orange.
b. Stephouse Recovery may be assessed a penalty of one hundred dollars ($100) for each
late COI or endorsement for each business day
c. If Stephouse Recovery is assessed a late penalty, the amount shall be deducted from
Stephouse Recovery’s monthly invoice.
RECORDS POLICY & PROCEDURES
ALL FILES SHALL BE KEPT IN A LOCKED CABINET AND ACCESS SHALL BE LIMITED TO THE CLIENT
FILES ON A NEED-TO-KNOW BASIS. Client files may contain:
2. A personal information form that contains:
a. Personal data for proper identification
b. Length of sobriety and prior recovery experience
c. The names of the Client's current outpatient care option (treatment facility or
Day Reporting Center)
d. Name of referral source to facility
3. The Client's treatment plan recommendations from referral sources and others
(Notations about how the facility can assist the Client in implementing their
treatment related court orders and or treatment plan recommendations)
4. List of prescribed medication used by the client
5. Waiver of confidentiality, signed at the time of the Client's initial intake into the
Recovery Residence Facility
6. Health Care Agency referral form for Recovery Residence Services
7. Copies of all progress reports and all correspondences written by STEPHOUSE RECOVERY
staff regarding the Client
8. Dates and results of all drug and alcohol tests and all forms related to such tests (keep
the physical test for the first year)
9. Overnight pass information
10. Dates of Client's entry and completion or termination from the facility, including
circumstances of their discharge.
11. A copy of the Recovery Residence facility rules and Client Intake forms signed and dated
by the Client upon entry into the Recovery Residence facility.
12. Client's files are restricted access to persons who have a legitimate need to view them. Only
Stephouse Recovery staff and people that have been added to a release of information that
is signed by the client will have access.
RECORDS MANAGEMENT AND MAINTENANCE
A. Stephouse Recovery, its officers, agents, employees, and sub-contractors shall, throughout the
term of the Contract Agreement, prepare, maintain, and manage records appropriate to the
services provided and in accordance with the Agreement and all applicable requirements.
1. Stephouse Recovery shall maintain records that are adequate to substantiate the services
for which claims are submitted for reimbursement under the Agreement and the
charges thereto. Such records shall include, but not be limited to, individual patient
charts and utilization review records.
2. Stephouse Recovery shall keep and maintain records that include referral and intake
documents, client identification, insurance information and authorizations to share
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information. Additional records include client drug screening, and supporting logs as
required by OCHCA.
3. Stephouse Recovery shall maintain books, records, documents, accounting procedures and
practices, and other evidence sufficient to reflect properly all direct and indirect cost of
whatever nature claimed to have been incurred in the performance of the Agreement and
in accordance with Medicare principles of reimbursement and GAAP.
4. Stephouse Recovery shall ensure the maintenance of medical records required by §70747
through and including §70751 of the CCR, as they exist now or may hereafter be amended,
the medical necessity of the service, and the quality of care provided. Records shall be
maintained in accordance with §51476 of Title 22 of the CCR, as it exists now or may
hereafter be amended.
B. Access to client records and information is restricted by job title, individual need to know or need to
complete job duties and contract requirements. Non-routine access to client records must be
approved by Stephouse Director or Compliance Officer. These include, but are not limited to the
following:
1. Research
2. Subpoena
3. Court Orders
4. Mandatory Reporting
5. Accreditation Surveys
6. Law Enforcement
7. Government Agencies
C. Stephouse Recovery shall implement and maintain administrative, technical, and physical
safeguards to ensure the privacy of PHI and prevent the intentional or unintentional use or
disclosure of PHI in violation of the HIPAA, federal, and state regulations. Stephouse
Recovery shall mitigate to the extent practicable, the known harmful effect of any use or
disclosure of PHI made in violation of federal or state regulations and/or OCHCA policies.
D. Stephouse Recovery participant, client, and/or patient records shall be maintained securely.
Stephouse Recovery shall maintain participant, client, and/or patient records and has established
and implements written record management procedures.
E. Stephouse Recovery shall retain all financial records for a minimum of ten (10) years from the
termination of the Agreement unless a longer period is required due to legal proceedings such as
litigations and/or settlement of claims.
E. Stephouse Recovery shall retain all client and/or patient medical records for ten (10) years
following discharge of the participant, client, and/or patient.
F. Stephouse Recovery shall make records pertaining to the costs of services, participant fees,
charges, billings, and revenues available at one (1) location within the limits of the OCHCA of
Orange. If Stephouse Recovery is unable to meet the record location criteria above, OCHCA may
provide written approval to Stephouse Recovery to maintain records in a single location,
identified by Stephouse Recovery.
G. Stephouse Recovery shall notify OCHCA of any PRA requests related to, or arising out of, this
Agreement, within forty-eight (48) hours. Stephouse Recovery shall provide OCHCA all
information that is requested by the PRA request.
H. Stephouse Recovery shall ensure all HIPAA DRS requirements are met. HIPAA requires that clients,
participants and/or patients be provided the right to access or receive a copy of their DRS
and/or request an addendum to their records. Title 45 CFR §164.501, defines DRS as a group of
records maintained by or for a covered entity that is:
1. Medical and billing records about individuals maintained by or for a covered healthcare
provider.
2. The enrollment, payment, claims adjudication, and case or medical management record
systems maintained by or for a health plan; or
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3. Used, in whole or in part, by or for the covered entity to make decisions about individuals.
I. Stephouse Recovery may retain client, and/or patient documentation electronically in
accordance with the terms of this Agreement and common business practices. If
documentation is retained electronically, Stephouse Recovery shall, in the event of an
audit or site visit:
1. Have documents readily available within twenty-four (24) hour notice of a scheduled audit
or site visit.
2. Provide auditor or other authorized individuals access to documents via a computer
terminal.
3. Provide the auditor or other authorized individuals with a hardcopy printout of
documents, if requested.
J. Stephouse Recovery shall ensure compliance with requirements pertaining to the privacy and
security of PII and/or PHI. Stephouse Recovery shall, upon discovery of a Breach of privacy
and/or security of PII and/or PHI by Stephouse Recovery, notify federal and/or state
authorities as required by law or regulation, and copy OCHCA on such notifications.
K. Stephouse Recovery may be required to pay any costs associated with a Breach of privacy
and/or security of PII and/or PHI, including but not limited to the costs of notification.
Stephouse Recovery shall pay any and all such costs arising out of a Breach of privacy and/or
security of PII and/or PHI.
L. Stephouse Recovery shall make records pertaining to the costs of services, patient fees, charges,
billings, and revenues available at one (1) location within the limits of the OCHCA of Orange.
HIPAA PRIVACY AND SECURITY/NOTICE OF PRIVACY PRACTICES
Stephouse Recovery intends to protect the privacy and provide for the security of PHI that may
be created, received, maintained, transmitted, used, or disclosed pursuant to the Agreement in
compliance with the applicable standards, implementation specifications, and requirements of
HIPAA, the HITECH Act, and the HIPAA regulations as they may exist now or be hereafter
amended.
Stephouse Recovery understands and acknowledges that HIPAA, the HITECH Act, and the HIPAA
regulations do not pre-empt any state statutes, rules, or regulations that are not otherwise pre-
empted by other Federal law(s) and impose more stringent requirements with respect to the
privacy of PHI.
Stephouse Recovery agrees not to use or further disclose PHI from OCHCA to Stephouse Recovery
other than as permitted or required by this Business Associate Contract or as required by law.
Stephouse Recovery agrees to comply with the HIPAA Security Rule at Subpart C of 45 CFR Part 164
with respect to electronic PHI OCHCA discloses to Stephouse Recovery, or Stephouse Recovery
creates, receives, maintains, or transmits on behalf of OCHCA.
Stephouse Recovery agrees to mitigate, to the extent practicable, any harmful effect that is known
to Stephouse Recovery of a Use or Disclosure of PHI by Stephouse Recovery in violation of the
requirements of this Business Associate Contract.
Stephouse Recovery agrees to report to OCHCA immediately any Use or Disclosure of PHI not
provided for by this Business Associate Contract of which Stephouse Recovery becomes aware.
Stephouse Recovery must report Breaches of Unsecured PHI in accordance with Subparagraph E
below and as required by 45 CFR § 164.410.
Stephouse Recovery shall ensure the continuous security of all computerized data systems containing
electronic PHI OCHCA discloses to Stephouse Recovery or Stephouse Recovery creates, receives,
maintains, or transmits on behalf of OCHCA. Stephouse Recovery shall protect paper documents
containing PHI OCHCA discloses to Stephouse Recovery ERY, or Stephouse Recovery creates, receives,
maintains, or transmits on behalf of OCHCA. These steps shall include complying with all the data
system security precautions listed under Subparagraphs E, and achieving and maintaining
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compliance with the HIPAA Security Rule, as necessary in conducting operations on behalf of
OCHCA.
BREACH POLICY
“Breach” means the acquisition, access, use, or disclosure of PHI in a manner not permitted under the HIPAA
Privacy Rule which compromises the security or privacy of the PHI. "Breach" shall have the meaning given
to such term under the IEA and CMPPA. It shall include a "PII loss" as that term is defined in the CMPPA.
"Breach of the security of the system" shall have the meaning given to such term under the CIPA, CCC §
1798.29(d).
a. Breach excludes:
1) Any unintentional acquisition, access, or use of PHI by a workforce member or person acting
under the authority of Stephouse Recovery or OCHCA , if such acquisition, access, or use was made in
good faith and within the scope of authority and does not result in further use or disclosure in a
manner not permitted under the Privacy Rule.
2) Any inadvertent disclosure by a person who is authorized to access PHI at Stephouse
Recovery to another person authorized to access PHI at Stephouse Recovery, or organized health care
arrangement in which OCHCA participates, and the information received as a result of such disclosure
is not further used or disclosed in a manner not permitted under the HIPAA Privacy Rule.
3) A disclosure of PHI where Stephouse Recovery or OCHCA has a good faith belief that an
unauthorized person to whom the disclosure was made would not reasonably have been able to
retains such information.
b. Except as provided in paragraph (a) of this definition, an acquisition, access, use, or
disclosure of PHI in a manner not permitted under the HIPAA Privacy Rule is presumed to be a breach
unless Stephouse Recovery demonstrates that there is a low probability that the PHI has been
compromised based on a risk assessment of at least the following factors:
1) The nature and extent of the PHI involved, including the types of identifiers and the
likelihood of re-identification;
2) The unauthorized person who used the PHI or to whom the disclosure was made;
3) Whether the PHI was actually acquired or viewed; and
4) The extent to which the risk to the PHI has been mitigated.
BREACH DISCOVERY AND NOTIFICATION
1. Following the discovery of a Breach of Unsecured PHI , Stephouse Recovery shall notify OCHCA of
such Breach, however both parties agree to a delay in the notification if so advised by a law
enforcement official pursuant to 45 CFR § 164.412.
a. A Breach shall be treated as discovered by Stephouse Recovery as of the first day on which
such Breach is known to Stephouse Recovery or, by exercising reasonable diligence, would
have been known to Stephouse Recovery.
b. Stephouse Recovery shall be deemed to have knowledge of a Breach, if the Breach is
known, or by exercising reasonable diligence would have known, to any person who is an
employee, officer, or other agent of Stephouse Recovery, as determined by federal common
law of agency.
2. Stephouse Recovery shall provide the notification of the Breach immediately to the County Privacy
Officer. Stephouse Recovery’s notification may be oral but shall be followed by written notification
within 24 hours of the oral notification.
3. Stephouse Recovery’s notification shall include, to the extent possible:
a. The identification of each Individual whose Unsecured PHI has been, or is reasonably
believed by Stephouse Recovery to have been, accessed, acquired, used, or disclosed during
the Breach;
b. Any other information that OCHCA is required to include in the notification to Individual
under 45 CFR §164.404 (c) at the time Stephouse Recovery is required to notify OCHCA or
promptly thereafter as this information becomes available, even after the regulatory sixty
(60) day period set forth in 45 CFR § 164.410 (b) has elapsed, including:
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1) A brief description of what happened, including the date of the Breach and the date
of the discovery of the Breach, if known;
2) A description of the types of Unsecured PHI that were involved in the Breach (such
as whether full name, social security number, date of birth, home address, account
number, diagnosis, disability code, or other types of information were involved);
3) Any steps Individuals should take to protect themselves from potential harm
resulting from the Breach;
4) A brief description of what Stephouse Recovery is doing to investigate the Breach,
to mitigate harm to Individuals, and to protect against any future Breaches; and
5) Contact procedures for Individuals to ask questions or learn additional
information, which shall include a toll-free telephone number, an e-mail address, Web
site, or postal address.
4. COUNTY may require Stephouse Recovery to provide notice to the Individual as required in 45
CFR § 164.404, if it is reasonable to do so under the circumstances, at the sole discretion of OCHCA.
5. In the event that Stephouse Recovery is responsible for a Breach of Unsecured PHI in violation of
the HIPAA Privacy Rule, Stephouse Recovery shall have the burden of demonstrating that Stephouse
Recovery made all notifications to OCHCA consistent with this Paragraph E and as required by the
Breach notification regulations, or, in the alternative, that the acquisition, access, use, or disclosure of
PHI did not constitute a Breach.
6. Stephouse Recovery shall maintain documentation of all required notifications of a Breach or its
risk assessment under 45 CFR § 164.402 to demonstrate that a Breach did not occur.
7. Stephouse Recovery shall provide to COUNTY all specific and pertinent information about the
Breach, including the information listed in Section E.3.b.(1)-(5) above, if not yet provided, to permit
COUNTY to meet its notification obligations under Subpart D of 45 CFR Part 164 as soon as
practicable, but in no event later than fifteen (15) calendar days after Stephouse Recovery’s initial
report of the Breach to OCHCA pursuant to Subparagraph E.2 above.
8. Stephouse Recovery shall continue to provide all additional pertinent information about the
Breach to OCHCA as it may become available, in reporting increments of five (5) business days after
the last report to OCHCA. Stephouse Recovery shall also respond in good faith to any reasonable
requests for further information, or follow-up information after report to OCHCA, when such request
is made by OCHCA.
9. If the Breach is the fault of Stephouse Recovery, Stephouse Recovery shall bear all expense or
other costs associated with the Breach and shall reimburse OCHCA for all expenses OCHCA incurs in
addressing the Breach and consequences thereof, including costs of investigation, notification,
remediation, documentation or other costs associated with addressing the Breach.
INTAKE POLICY AND PROCEDURE
Admission Criteria
Stephouse Recovery must receive an email from the OCHCA gatekeeper. Once a client arrives, we fax
the Referral form back to HCA.
Intake means the initial face-to-face meeting between a Client and Stephouse Recovery staff in which
specific information about the Client is gathered, including waiver of confidentiality and other
required documents signed at the time of the Client's initial intake into the Recovery Residence
facility. This is completed to permit disclosure of designated information about the Client to HCA,
Treatment Provider, Courts, Orange County Probation Department, (OCPD), Parole Department, Public
Defender, and/or District Attorney.
Intake Prescreening Policy, Readmission, Intake and Discharge Criteria Policy and Procedure
It is the policy of Stephouse Recovery to have every client goes through an intake process upon arrival.
It is the policy of Stephouse Recovery to maintain consistent Admission, Readmission, and Intake
Criteria.
*If a client is deemed to need a higher level of care, Stephouse Recovery will not accept the client into
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the program and will refer the client back to OCHCA*
Procedure
All clients requesting admission are scheduled for an intake session with designated staff. The staff
will conduct a face-to-face interview and is responsible for the appropriate assessment collected on
the intake form and reviewed by the intake staff.
Criteria to qualify for enrollment includes
▪ A willingness to continue sobriety
▪ Abstinence from drugs and alcohol for at least one month prior to admittance
▪ Successful completion of a detox and treatment program.
▪ No one who is under the influence or displaying questionable or dangerous behaviors will be
admitted to Stephouse Recovery. OCHCA requires that staff are trained in Recognizing
Symptoms Requiring Appropriate Referral.
▪ Residents must be capable of living independently.
Should a referral be denied admission, the person will be referred back to the OC HCA Gatekeeper for
more appropriate placement.
During the intake process, the intake staff will perform the following functions:
▪ Review client rights
▪ Review Stephouse Recovery policies and procedures
▪ Obtain the consent and appropriate release of information
OUTPATIENT PARTICIPATION POLICY
Clients that include mandatory participation, either in a COUNTY-approved outpatient treatment
program and/or the Day Reporting Center (DRC), must comply or be discharged. Exceptions to
aftercare linkages must be approved by THE COUNTY OF ORANGE.
Clients must attend outpatient meetings (AA, NA, etc.) as required by the referring agency. Staff will
collect client meeting cards weekly on Sunday evenings at the home. If the client is unavailable on
Sunday evening, it is their responsibility to arrange for staff to receive the cards prior to Sunday
evening. Clients are required to complete meeting cards as proof of attendance and the cards must be
signed by the client’s meeting counselor or group leader. Periodically Stephouse Recovery will contact
the program where the client is attending meetings, requesting verification of attendance. Therefore, at
the time of intake, Stephouse Recovery requires a signed release of patient information form from the
client for the outpatient or day reporting program.
A client’s file must have the names of the client’s current outpatient care option (treatment facility or
Day Reporting Center) and signed meeting cards showing proof of attendance.
OUTPATIENT TREATMENT PARTICIPATION COLLECTION
• Client must enroll in the required Outpatient approved treatment within 30 days of
intake.
• Newly admitted clients are required to provide a letter of proof of enrollment.
• If clients are not enrolled in Outpatient treatment within 30 days, they are referred
back to the screener and discharged. The client's probation officer will be contacted.
• Stephouse administration will periodically contact the client’s Outpatient facility to
confirm client attendance.
• Clients are given meeting logs to document Outpatient therapy; all therapy must be
added, including online therapy.
• Clients turn in meeting logs at the end of each month.
TRACKING PROCEDURE
The client’s file must have the names of the Client's current outpatient care option (treatment
facility or Day Reporting Center) and keep proof from the client of attending.
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Clients must attend outpatient meetings (AA, NA, etc.) as required by the referring agency. Staff will collect
client meeting cards weekly on Sunday evenings at the home. If the client is unavailable Sunday evening, it is
their responsibility to arrange for staff to receive the cards before Sunday evening. The completed meeting
cards are proof of attendance. The clients receive the meeting cards from the outpatient treatment program,
Day Reporting Center (DRC), court, or probation officer.
CLIENT SIGN-IN/OUT LOG - All clients must sign in/out when entering or leaving the residence. Failure to
do so will result in a write-up, or discharge from the program as needed. Stephouse Recovery shall provide
logs for all clients that will include the following information:
• Client name and signature when leaving and signature again when returning
• Date and time leaving the Recovery Residence facility
• Estimated time of return to the facility
• Location and telephone number where the c lient may be reached
The Stephouse Recovery shall achieve performance objectives, tracking and reporting Performance
Outcome Objective statistics in monthly programmatic reports, as appropriate. Revisions to objectives
and services may be implemented by mutual agreement between STEPHOUSE RECOVERY and THE
COUNTY OF ORANGE. Stephouse will submit timely and accurate monthly reports via a HIPAA-
compliant link online.
Stephouse Recovery shall provide an effective sober living program to Clients with identified
alcohol and/or drug problems as measured by Employment and Housing Linkage Rates.
• Employment Rate: Eighty Percent (80%) of all clients successfully completing the
program shall obtain employment, be enrolled in school, or participate in regular
volunteer activities by discharge. Clients who are enrolled as full -time students or
are deemed physically or mentally disabled by a certified physician, and who have
volunteered for more than ten (10) hours per week in the community are
considered employed. The employment rate shall be calculated by the number of
clients who obtained employment (as defined above) at the completion of Recovery
Residence Services divided by the number of clients completing Recovery Residence
Services during the evaluation period.
• Housing Linkage Rate: Eighty Percent (80%) of all clients shall be linked to stable
housing upon completion of Recovery Residence Services. Housing Linkage Rate
shall be calculated by the number of clients transitioning to stable housing upon
completion of Recovery Residence Services divided by the number of Clients
completing Recovery Residence Services during the evaluation period.
Bed Day means one (1) calendar day during which Stephouse Recovery provides Recovery
Residence Services as described in Exhibit A of the Agreement. A Bed Day will include the
day of admission but not of discharge. If admission and discharge occur on the same day,
one (1) Bed Day will be charged. Probation and the HCA staff are to be notified as soon as
possible upon a client's discharge.
CLIENT RELAPSE POLICY
If a client relapses, staff will complete an incident report and notify the Program Monitor and the
client’s Probation Officer. Stephouse Recovery management will decide if the client can stay in the
program. If the client does stay in the program, he or she will be placed on a behavioral contract with
zero tolerance for any further violation of Stephouse rules. If the client does not stay in the program,
he or she will be referred by Stephouse to a different facility/program. Please see the Discharge
Policy and Procedure for additional actions for relapsed clients.
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DISCHARGE PROCEDURES FOR STAFF
Procedure
A client has completed the program when they have used their maximum allotted time or reached their
goals for transition. However, when a client leaves Stephouse Recovery for any reason, the staff must fax
back the original Client Referral Form to the OCHCA Gatekeeper. The bottom portion of the form must
include the discharge date, complete or incomplete, and the reason for leaving.
Clients successfully completing the program should complete and sign an AB109 Discharge Plan form. Staff
should also complete the Stephouse Recovery Discharge Form to assist in reporting information to OCHCA.
No signature is required from clients who are terminated before completion.
Failure to comply with Stephouse policies signed at intake may result in a written warning or termination
from the program. Infractions will be documented in the client's record, and a behavioral contract will
accompany the written warning. If the client is terminated, the OCHA Gatekeeper will be notified
immediately via fax, and the OCHA Program Officer will be notified by email. When applicable, the client's
Probation Officer and/or emergency contact will also be notified.
Housing Resources shall be provided to clients regardless of completion status. In the case of
homelessness, the appropriate city agency will be contacted to determine if services are available for the
client. Should transportation to treatment or a shelter be necessary, Stephouse will provide.
In addition, there may be circumstances where law enforcement may be called, and legal action taken
against the client.
If a client discharges from the program and does not collect personal belongings, the items will be held for
seven (7) days (excluding food products) and then discarded or donated to charity. Clients terminated from
the program must be sober before they enter Stephouse property.
Each client should receive a housing resource guide upon discharge.
Cause for Discharge Criteria
• If a client needs a higher level of care.
• The client has not returned, and no contact has been made after three (3) days.
• Theft of any kind. Theft may also result in legal proceedings.
• Threatening or dangerous behavior.
• Behavior that is not conducive to recovery. Unacceptable behavior includes but is not limited to
sexual activity on the premises, fighting, stealing, lying, etc.
• Confrontational behavior, harassment, and being a constant nuisance to other clients or staff.
• Continuous poor behavior and attitude toward staff or other clients.
• Positive results/refusal of urinalysis, breathalyzer, or any other drug test. Refusal to test is
equivalent to a POSITIVE test.
• DRUG/ALCOHOL AND/OR PARAPHERNALIA on the premises.
• Taking or possessing prescription drugs that are prescribed to someone else.
• Vandalism or other deliberate abuse of house property.
• Sexual harassment to residents, vendors, staff, or others.
• Violating the no-smoking policy.
• Leaving after curfew without permission.
• Illegal activities of any kind.
• Violence or threats of violence.
• Weapons possession.
• Failure to sign in/out when entering or leaving the residence. This may result in a written client
warning or discharge from the program as needed.
• Refusing to allow a search of personal belongings, room, or person.
In addition, clients are required to maintain an appropriate noise level. Loud noises of any kind are
prohibited; please keep noises to a minimum. The first offense will result in a verbal warning and will be
documented in the client's record. Repeated violations may result in discharge from the program.
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These causes for termination are not an exhaustive list. Stephouse Management reserves the right to
consider all circumstances, behaviors, issues, etc., for appropriate action. All terminations are up to the
staff’s discretion.
Once a client is discharged, they are not allowed to return to the facility except to retrieve personal
belongings. Arrangements to retrieve belongings should be made in advance with Stephouse Recovery
staff.
RECORD RETENTION POLICY
Following a discharge, Stephouse Recovery shall retain all participant, client, and patient medical records
for ten (10) years, except non-emancipated minors for whom records must be kept for at least one (1) year
after such children have reached the age of eighteen (18) years, or for ten (10) years after the last date of
service, whichever is longer. This information will also include dates of the client's entry and completion or
termination from the facility, including the circumstances of their discharge.
DENIED ADMISSION POLICY
If a client is deemed to need a higher level of care, Stephouse Recovery has the discretion not to accept the
client into the program and will refer the client back to OCHCA.
A client can be denied admission by Stephouse Recovery for felonious sex crimes, arson, or other violent
felonies.
If a client has a positive drug test at admission, Stephouse Recovery has the discretion to not accept the
client into the program and will refer the client back to OCHCA.
Stephouse Recovery complies with all State and Local laws and penal codes regarding registered sex
offenders. A referral may be denied admission if the offender does not meet the legal requirements.
ALTERNATIVE REFERRAL POLICY
In the event of admission denial, the Stephouse Recovery or designee will provide referrals to
facilities or services appropriate to the client’s presenting problems. The original referral form
will be faxed back to OCHA notifying them of the admission denial.
CLIENT ELIGIBILITY
Admission to Stephouse Recovery is open to AB 109 offenders with substance use disorders who
were released either on PCS (Post-Release Community Supervision) or on SR (Supervised Release) and
who have no available housing. You must be an adult 18 and over and be referred by the Orange County
Health Care Agency. The AB 109 Sober Living Services is up to a four (4) month program.
Stephouse Recovery sober living has a policy that will not discriminate in provision of services on the basis
of ethnic group identification, religion, age, sex, sexual preference, race, disability pursuant to the Title IV
of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Section 20000d, Title 42, United States Code); Section 11135 of
California Government Code; and for recipients of financial assistance of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
(Section 794. Title 29, United States Code); and Chapter 6 (Commencing with Section 10800) Division 4,
Title 9 of the California Code of Regulations in accordance with all state and federal laws and regulations.
The program will provide clients with shared, safe, comfortable, and healthful accommodation.
Assurance of provision and recognition of personal rights and the right to confidentiality as provided
for in Title 42, Section 2.1 through 2.67-1, Code of Federal Regulations, effective August 1, 1975.
CLIENT REQUIREMENTS
In order to remain in good standing at Stephouse Recovery, all clients must……
• Participate in structured daily activities such as house cleaning and basic household
operations.
• Agree to follow StepHouse Recovery Center's Signing In/Out Policy.
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• Agree to follow StepHouse Recovery Center's House Rules.
• Agree to follow StepHouse Recovery Center's Schedule Policy.
• Agree to follow StepHouse Recovery Center's Transportation Policy.
• Agree to follow StepHouse Recovery Center's Food Policy.
• Agree to adhere to StepHouse Recovery Center's Drug/Alcohol Screening Policy.
• Agree to follow StepHouse Recovery Center's Meetings Policy.
• Agree to follow StepHouse Recovery Center's Authority Policy.
• Agree to follow StepHouse Recovery Center's Non-Smoking Policy.
• Agree to follow StepHouse Recovery Center's Good Neighbor Policy.
• Agree to follow StepHouse Recovery Center's Medication Policy.
• Agree to follow StepHouse Recovery Center's Visitation Policy.
*Note: These policies are outlined in the AB 109 Sober Living Services Participant Handbook
THE FOLLOWING RELATES TO SOBRIETY, CONDUCT, AND RESPONSIBILITIES WHILE AT
A STEPHOUSE RECOVERY RESIDENCE:
• Clients must maintain total abstinence from any mind/mood altering chemicals, alcohol,
and/or drug.
• No paraphernalia (syringes, papers, pipes, spoons, etc.) associated with drugs on premises.
• NO EXCEPTIONS Cough syrup with alcohol content is prohibited for client safety and sobriety.
• Abide by the curfew for clients, which is 10:00 P.M weekdays and 11:00 P.M weeknights
and holidays. All clients must follow curfews unless other arrangements have been made in
advance with management.
• Take directions from all staff at the facility.
• Overnight passes may be given to clients after they become eligible.
• Clients are to sign in/sign out when leaving the facility.
• All clients are subject to random drug and alcohol screens.
• Client must notify staff of any communicable disease.
STEPHOUSE RECOVERY’S POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
The following policies and procedures are shared with the client at intake
AUTHORITY POLICY
StepHouse Recovery shall recognize the authority of the Orange County Probation Department (OCPD) as
officers of the court and shall extend cooperation to OCPD within the constraints of state and federal laws
and regulations.
StepHouse Recovery shall operate in accordance with Local, State, and Federal laws and regulations.
StepHouse Recovery has an open-door policy with law enforcement, probation/parole, and court services
programs. All clients agree to be respectful to all.
CLEANING POLICY
Be considerate to others. Practice good hygiene by showering regularly, washing clothes and bedding
regularly, and keeping personal living areas clean and orderly.
Clean up after yourself; especially after using the shared common areas (bathroom, living room, patio, yards,
garage areas, kitchen, fridges, etc.). All common areas in housing are to be shared and treated with respect
and cleanliness.
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Cleaning supplies are provided to the facilities. Mandatory cleaning days will be scheduled by staff biweekly
on Sundays.
CLIENT CONFIDENTIALITY POLICY
I shall respect and maintain the confidentiality of all discussions between staff and other clients in connection
with group meetings where clients share personal information.
I understand that I am legally prohibited from posting or sharing pictures, videos, or information about other
clients, discussions, or activities online in any format (including, but not limited to email, websites, message
boards, blogs, and social networking platforms).
I understand that these are the conditions of my admission to StepHouse Recovery. Any breach of the Client
Confidentiality Agreement may result in immediate discharge from StepHouse Recovery.
I further understand that my personal file may be audited by StepHouse Recovery’s authorized personnel for
the purpose of monitoring quality, performance, and compliance. All information will be kept confidential
and in accordance with the Federal Confidentiality Regulations.
CLIENT SIGN-IN/OUT POLICY – CLIENT SCHEDULES
All clients must sign in/out when entering or leaving the residence. Failure to do so will result in a write -up,
blackout, or discharge from the program as needed.
StepHouse Recovery shall provide logs for all clients that will include the following information:
✔ Client name and signature when leaving and signature again when returning
✔ Date and time leaving the Recovery Residence facility
✔ Estimated time of return to the facility
✔ Location and telephone number where the client may be reached.
StepHouse Recovery shall also receive a schedule from the client for treatment, work, school, or
other activities. The client shall be required to notify StepHouse Recovery staff of any change to
their schedule. The schedule is maintained on a calendar monitored by staff at each home.
OUTPATIENT PARTICIPATION POLICY
Clients who are required to participate in either an Orange County approved outpatient treatment
program and/or a Day Reporting Center (DRC) must comply or be discharged. Exceptions to the
mandatory participation must be approved by the county of Orange and provided to Stephouse
Recovery in writing.
OCHCA requires that all clients attend outpatient meetings ((SMART recovery, 12-Step program, etc.). Staff
will collect client meeting logs weekly on Sunday evenings. If the client is unavailable on Sunday evening,
they must arrange for staff to receive the logs before Sunday evening. Clients are required to complete
meeting logs as proof of attendance, which must be signed by the client’s meeting counselor or group
leader. Periodically Stephouse Recovery will contact the program where the client attends meetings,
requesting attendance verification. Therefore, at the time of intake, Stephouse Recovery requires a signed
release of patient information form permitting the outpatient meeting agency to share information with
Stephouse.
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CURFEW/OVERNIGHT POLICY
Clients must be back by curfew:
Weekdays- 10:00 PM.
Weekends and Holidays- 12:00 AM.
All clients must follow curfews unless other arrangements have been made in advance with management
(i.e., overnight pass, working past curfew, etc.).
Clients must be with StepHouse Recovery for a minimum of 30 days and have no behavioral issues to qualify
for an overnight pass. Approval must be requested in writing to the StepHouse office at least 48 hours in
advance and is up to the staff’s discretion. Clients may obtain overnight passes for a maximum of two (2)
weekends or four (4) nights per month.
Leaving the house after curfew hours may be grounds for termination from the program. Curfew violators
will be placed on a behavioral contract and required to pass a drug test prior to returning to housing.
The client agrees that they are subject to discharge if they leave StepHouse Recovery overnight without a
pass.
DISCHARGE/TERMINATION POLICY
Client has completed the program when they have used their maximum allotted time or reached their goals
for transition. Staff will complete a Discharge Form to document the circumstances of the client leaving
sober living. Clients are not required to sign the discharge form.
Failure to comply with StepHouse policies signed at intake may result in a written warning or
administrative termination from the program. Infractions will be documented in the client's record, and a
behavioral contract will accompany the written warning. The client's Probation/Parole Officer will be
notified of termination when applicable. In addition, there may be circumstances where law enforcement
may be called, and legal action taken against the client.
If a client discharges or is terminated from the program and does not collect personal belongings, the items
will be held for seven (7) days (excluding food products) and then discarded or donated to charity. Clients
terminated from the program must be sober before they enter StepHouse property.
Each client should receive a housing resource guide upon discharge. Stephouse Recovery will assist
discharged clients in securing safe, temporary shelter in the event of immediate discharge. Residents who
have relapsed and under the influence may be transported to Be Well Orange Campus or College Hospital
Costa Mesa.
Cause for Termination from the Program
● If a client needs a higher level of care than provided at StepHouse Recovery. The client will be
referred to OCHCA.
● The client has left the residence and no contact has been made after three (3) days (unless other
arrangements have been made)
● Theft of any kind. Theft may also result in legal proceedings.
● Threatening or dangerous behavior.
● Behavior that is not conducive to recovery. Unacceptable behavior includes but is not limited to
sexual activity on the premises, fighting, stealing, lying, etc.
● Confrontational behavior, harassment, and being a constant nuisance to other clients or staff.
● Continuous poor behavior and attitude toward staff or other clients.
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● Positive results/refusal of urinalysis, breathalyzer, or any other drug test. Refusal to test is
equivalent to a POSITIVE test.
● DRUG/ALCOHOL AND/OR PARAPHERNALIA on the premises.
● Taking or possessing prescription drugs that are prescribed to someone else.
● Vandalism or other deliberate abuse of house property.
● Sexual harassment to residents, vendors, staff, or others.
● Violating the no-smoking policy.
● Leaving after curfew without permission.
● Illegal activities of any kind.
● Violence or threats of violence.
● Weapons possession.
● Failure to sign in/out when entering or leaving the residence. This may result in a written client
warning or discharge from the program as needed.
● Refusing to allow a search of personal belongings, room, or person.
In addition, clients are required to maintain an appropriate noise level. Loud noises of any kind are
prohibited; please keep noises to a minimum. The first offense will result in a verbal warning and will be
documented in the client's record. Repeated violations may result in discharge from the program.
These causes for termination are not an exhaustive list. Stephouse Management reserves the right to consider
all circumstances, behaviors, issues, etc., for appropriate action. All terminations are up to the staff’s
discretion.
Once a client is discharged, they are not allowed to return to the facility except to retrieve personal
belongings. Arrangements to retrieve belongings should be made in advance with StepHouse Recovery staff.
DISCRETION POLICY
The client understands that they are entering independent sober living. Privacy is limited and space is
shared. Stephouse Recovery staff will conduct bed checks and will be entering bedrooms regularly.
StepHouse Recovery staff reserves the right to interpret and apply the rules to meet the needs of each client
effectively and within reason. Staff will use their best judgment with events and circumstances as they
occur. Stephouse Management reserves the right to change or make additions to StepHouse Recovery
Policies and Procedures at any time. It is within StepHouse Recovery’s discretion to make amendments or
modifications to any of the following:
● Rules and Regulations
● Policies
● Room Assignments
● Food Requirements
● Schedules
● Supervision
● Chore Assignments
● Testing
● Discharge
Clients who violate any StepHouse Recovery Policies or Procedures agree to the decisions and
consequences deemed necessary by the staff.
DRUG/ALCOHOL POLICY
Alcohol, illegal drugs, or non-prescribed drug use, distribution, and/or possession are strictly prohibited.
Cough syrup or mouthwash with alcohol content is prohibited. A client must have total abstinence from any
mind/mood-altering chemicals and/or drugs.
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No paraphernalia (syringes, papers, pipes, spoons, etc.) associated with drugs on-premises.
No association with any active drug or alcohol offender(s), nor frequent places where drugs are sold, used,
or are accessible.
Any infraction may result in the client being put on a standout*, behavioral contract, or discharged.
(*Standout- A specified number of days when a client is banned from the house).
SUPPORT STAFF
Staff is responsible for the supervision of all clients residing in the facility. Staff shall be responsible for
ensuring the safety of the buildings and grounds and maintaining compliance of clients and staff with
facility rules. Whenever StepHouse Recovery Staff is not present at the facility, a designated facility staff
person shall be on-call to respond and arrive at the facility.
StepHouse Recovery shall post the contact telephone number of designated on-call staff.
The staff will randomly be on sight at the facility to perform UAs/breathalyzers and conduct random
searches of the client’s rooms, personal property, and belongings.
EMPLOYMENT/SCHOOL/VOLUNTEERING POLICY
StepHouse Recovery requires all clients to be employed, seeking employment, attending school or
volunteering during the duration of their program. Verification of employment, interviews, applications, or
volunteer hours is required weekly. Proof of school enrollment is also required. Failure to comply with this
policy can result in discharge from the program.
GOOD NEIGHBOR POLICY
A top priority for StepHouse Recovery is to ensure that the occupants of our homes are considerate of the
neighbors and respectful of the neighborhoods in which they reside. The following protocol should always
be followed by clients and staff to ensure that the community and StepHouse Recovery maintain a healthy
relationship.
StepHouse Recovery provides contact information of our managerial staff to the bordering neighbors
(located behind, to the left, to the right, as well as across the street of each recovery residence). We provide
bordering neighbors with an "Introductory Letter" informing them of our presence in the community and
our mission and efforts to help those in recovery make their fresh start in a safe and sober environment.
"Introductory Letters" can be requested from staff.
Should a neighbor contact a house manager with a complaint regarding our home or its occupants, it is the
responsibility of the house manager to pass this information to Management immediately, failure to do so
will result in a written warning. Management will respond to the complaint within 12 hours to let the
concerned neighbor know that the complaint was received, and we will investigate and address the issue as
the situation warrants.
To maintain a clean presentation of the house and grounds, gardening will take place bi-weekly by a paid
landscaping company. Management will also conduct outside maintenance as needed. Clients may not leave
personal belongings, bicycles, trash, or other disposed of items at the front of the house. A monthly checkup
by the Director will be made, and the current condition of the home and its grounds will be documented.
Clients are required to abide by the StepHouse Recovery House Rules. Clients are expected to maintain an
appropriate noise level and always behave appropriately.
Smoking and vaping are permitted only in designated areas (posted) as outlined in the house rules.
Cigarettes are to be disposed of in an appropriate manner. Clients are expected to maintain a clean
environment and never litter. Staff and clients are responsible for setting trash cans out on the curb and
bringing them in on the assigned trash day.
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Contact Information:
Stephouse Recovery
(888) 923-7623
info@stephouserecovery.com
Orange County Healthcare Agency
Monica Curran
mcurran@ochca.com
(714) 834-2488
or
Monica Cabral
MoCabral@ochca.com
(714) 834-2027
HOUSE RULES POLICY
Payments and tenure (Private Pay only)
● StepHouse Recovery requires a one-month commitment to housing. Clients may stay for as long as
they feel they need structure and accountability in their life.
● Clients may move out of the housing at any time without a refund.
● There are NO REFUNDS.
● Payment is due on the first day of each month.
Facility
● Accept the facility “as is”.
● The client understands they reside in a congregate housing situation, not an exclusive unit or space.
● Become familiarized with escape routes, safe gathering locations, and the need for a safe location
headcount.
● It is encouraged for clients not to bring anything of high value to the facility or to keep it on their
person otherwise. StepHouse Recovery is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged property.
Clients bringing items of monetary or sentimental value to the facility are doing so at their own risk.
● No personal refrigerators, microwaves, coffee pots, heaters, furniture, candles, or excessive property
is allowed.
● Moving rooms:
○ Clients may request to move rooms but are only allowed to move with permission of staff
■ Decisions will be based on seniority, behavioral assessment, and availability
○ Client must clean room previously occupied before moving.
○ Staff may need to move clients based on necessity. Changing a client’s room assignment is at
the staff discretion.
● House meetings are scheduled by management on a need-be basis. If the client is unable to attend
because of work conflicts, a manager must be notified.
● Laundry detergent/supplies and toiletries are not provided for client use.
● Internet Wi-Fi is provided at each location.
Client Conduct
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● No drugs, alcohol, and/or paraphernalia allow on house premises.
● All medications, including over the counter, must be held and dispensed by the clients themselves.
● Do not enter other clients’ rooms. Clients may only enter their own room and are not allowed to
enter another client's bedroom.
● Clients are not allowed to fraternize with other clients.
● Do not share rental agreement information with other clients.
● All overnight passes must be requested for approval by Thursday of each week.
● Client agrees that if they leave StepHouse Recovery for an overnight without a "pass" they are
subject to discharge. Personal belongings will only be held for seven (7) days (excluding food
products) and then discarded or donated to charity.
● NO PETS- Pets of any kind are not permitted.
● Clients are expected to rise in the morning at a reasonable time to ensure they are dressed, bed
made, immediate area cleaned, and house chores completed by 11 am daily.
● Assigned chores must be completed daily.
● Before leaving the house, chores must be completed, the bed must be made, and the room must be
tidy. If clients have school/work/volunteering before the "11 am Chore Check", they must complete
all household responsibilities before leaving.
● All clients must wear appropriate attire when in shared areas of the facility and/or in the presence
of other residents and staff. Appropriate attire includes shirts and pants/shorts, and dresses.
● CURFEW, clients must be in the house by 10 PM on weekdays and 11 PM on weekends and holidays.
● Be considerate to others. Keep music and television audio so as not to disturb other clients. Pick up
after yourself, leaving microwaves, common areas, and bathrooms clean for the next person.
● Shower daily, maintain personal hygiene, and wash your clothes regularly.
● Bedding must be washed weekly.
● NO SMOKING/VAPING inside of or in front of the house. SMOKING/VAPING is only permitted in
designated areas.
● DO NOT LEAVE BURNING CIGARETTES UNATTENDED.
● Empty ashtrays as needed.
● Clients agree not to have any contact with ex-clients that have been discharged due to relapse or
behavioral infractions.
● NO STEALING! Respect others' property. Theft is cause for immediate discharge and may result in
legal proceedings.
● DO NOT TOUCH THE MAIL. The operations coordinator is the only person allowed to bring the mail
in from the mailbox.
● All clients must attend at least five 12-Step meetings and scheduled house solutions meetings.
● Threatening or dangerous behavior and/or deliberate abuse of house property will be cause for
immediate discharge and may result in legal proceedings.
● Sexual harassment is strictly prohibited and will result in automatic discharge from the program.
The client’s Parole/Probation Officer and law enforcement will be notified.
● Clients must notify staff of any communicable disease.
● If you see something, say something. The purpose of sober living is to provide a supportive
environment free from alcohol and drugs. Clients play a vital role in keeping each other safe and sober.
Staff should be informed of threatening or dangerous behaviors of others, drug or alcohol use,
housemates’ lack of participation in house chores, etc.
● In the event of an emergency dial 911. Staff should also immediately be notified.
Daily Structured Activities
Clients are required to engage in daily activities that should be discussed with their outpatient provider.
Clients will be assigned household duties, including but not limited to house cleaning and basic household
operations. Assigned duties must be completed daily.
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The client agrees to work on a program of recovery to better their lives in the form of their choosing.
StepHouse Recovery highly recommends attending celebrate recovery, parenting classes, life skill classes,
private counseling, and many other community-based organizations to better themselves.
The client agrees and understands that a condition for being at StepHouse Recovery is to be gainfully
employed, actively seeking work, in treatment, attending school, or other activities to enhance the client’s
future. Staff will provide resources, assistance, and support for clients to find work, register for school, attend
appropriate self-help program meetings, and volunteer in the community.
MAIL AND PACKAGE DELIVERY POLICY
StepHouse Recovery and staff are not responsible nor liable for mail or packages that clients choose to have
delivered to a recovery residence. Do not open any packages not addressed to you.
MEALS/FOOD POLICY
StepHouse Recovery will provide food during the week. It is the client’s decision on whether they wish to
consume the food provided.
Clients are not allowed to keep any food in their rooms. All food must be kept in the kitchen or designated
pantry space. Only water bottles are allowed in clients’ rooms.
Clients are required to clean up after themselves. Personal items, laundry, towels, and the like should not be
left in the common areas of the house. Do not leave dishes in the sink or any other areas of the house,
including rooms. Clean and stow dishes, utensils, and cookware in their allocated spaces. Clean the counters
and stove after use. Clean the microwave as needed, especially if you spill something.
Food logs must be filled out on Sunday for the week prior.
MOTOR VEHICLE (INCL. MOTORCYCLE) POLICY
● Clients driving a motor vehicle or motorcycle must possess and provide copies of a current California
Driver's License, proof of insurance, and registration.
● Clients are not allowed to ride in the car of another client or allow another client to drive their car.
● All vehicles must be insured and properly registered, and the client must have a valid driver's license.
● Auto repair on the premises is not permitted without prior management permission.
● Clients are allowed only the vehicle they are currently using, no additional vehicles are permitted.
Vehicles are a privilege that may be revoked at any time due to non-compliance with program rules
and expectations.
NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY
StepHouse Recovery does not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex,
or mental or physical disabilities, pursuant to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Section 2000d,
Title 42, United States Code), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 794, Title 29, United States
Code); the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (Section 12132, Title 42, United States Code);
Section 11135 of the California Government Code; and Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 10800),
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Division 4, Title 9 of the California Code of Regulations.
Any person who believes they or someone else has been subjected to discrimination based on race, national
origin, sex, age, or disability may file a grievance under the following procedure. It is against the law for
StepHouse Recovery to retaliate against anyone who opposes discrimination, files a grievance, or participates
in the investigation of a grievance. This policy applies to employees, contractors, vendors, clients, and all who
interact with Stephouse Recovery.
OPIOID OVERDOSE EMERGENCY TREATMENT POLICY
StepHouse Recovery shall have available at each program site, at minimum, one Naloxone (Narcan) Nasal
Spray for the treatment of known or suspected opioid overdose.
In case of suspected opioid overdose, staff may administer Naloxone (Narcan) Nasal Spray and then call 911.
Clients will also be shown how to administer Naloxone.
**Note: Naloxone is the generic name of Narcan. Narcan is the brand name of Naloxone.
PROPERTY DAMAGE POLICY
The client agrees not to damage the facility, which includes the outside perimeter.
Client agrees not to damage any property belonging to StepHouse Recovery which includes but is not limited
to transport vehicles, appliances, and furniture.
The client agrees to return any items to the facility before discharge, including linens, blankets, and towels.
The client agrees if there is damage that cannot reasonably be traced back to a particular person, the cost of
the damage will be shared equally among all the housemates.
The client agrees to be financially responsible for all damage caused by them in any of the StepHouse
Recovery facilities and transport vehicles.
DRUG & ALCOHOL SCREENING POLICY
Alcohol, illegal drug, or non-prescribed drug use or possession by clients or staff is strictly
prohibited. Cough syrup with alcohol content is prohibited for client safety and sobriety.
ALL CLIENTS MAY BE SUBJECT TO RANDOM DRUG SCREENS, BREATHALYZER TESTS AND ROOM
SEARCHES.
● StepHouse shall perform random drug and/or alcohol testing on clients suspected of using
substances AND at a minimum of one (1) time per month.
● All urine specimen collection shall be observed by same-sex staff. The result of the screening will be
documented in the client's record.
● Clients are not allowed to open tests by themselves. Staff will open the tests and then give
them to clients.
● If a test is unclear or possible contamination is suspected, the client will have to re-test within 1.5
hours after the first test was administered.
If a client refuses a search or test or drugs or alcohol are found or detected, StepHouse
Recovery will notify the client's probation officer (within one business day), and discharge
from the program may result. Refusal to test is equivalent to a POSITIVE test.
** REMINDER**
UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHALL A CLIENT WHO IS UNDER THE INFLUENCE BE ALLOWED
IN THE HOUSE.
If a client is found to be under the influence, management shall pack the client's property for
retrieval at a later time. When the client is no longer under the influence, he can arrange to
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retrieve personal property with staff.
The client’s property will be held for seven (7) days before StepHouse Recovery donates the
items to charity.
SMOKING POLICY
Smoking, (including electronic cigarettes) is prohibited within the facilities; the use of tobacco and tobacco
products on facility premises is allowed in the backyard or parking lot.
1. Smoking and/or vaping is prohibited in any enclosed area of StepHouse Recovery's facilities.
2. Cigarettes must be completely extinguished in receptacles or metal containers to reduce fire risk.
3. Any client violating the no-smoking policy may be discharged from the program.
4. A self-audit of the no-smoking policy will be implemented, and any violation should be reported
by staff in an incident report. A monthly Health and Safety audit will be conducted to see if the no-
smoking policy is being adhered to.
-NO SMOKING/VAPING INSIDE OF OR IN FRONT OF THE HOUSE. SMOKING/VAPING is only permitted
in designated areas.
-DO NOT LEAVE BURNING CIGARETTES UNATTENDED.
TRANSGENDER & GENDER IDENTITY POLICY
StepHouse Recovery will not discriminate against ethnic group identification, religion, age, gender
identification, sexual preferences, race, or disability. StepHouse Recovery will make every effort to
ensure that all needs of transgender and non-cisgender persons are accommodated. We are
committed to our clients feeling safe, supported, and comfortable.
StepHouse Recovery is committed to maintaining client information in strict confidence. No client
information is ever shared with other clients, including gender orientation.
Transgender and non-cisgender clients are subject to the same drug/alcohol screening policy. A staff
of the same gender the client has identified with will be in the room to observe urine specimen
collection.
GENDER-ORIENTED FACILITY POLICY
StepHouse Recovery will accommodate clients according to their gender identity. Those clients
identifying as male, and female will be housed in separate residences accordingly.
TRANSPORTATION POLICY
StepHouse Recovery shall arrange for transportation via bus vouchers, as necessary. StepHouse
Recovery will also provide information regarding public transportation, how to obtain a bus pass, bus
schedules, etc.
If the client owns and operates a vehicle, StepHouse Recovery shall do its best to accommodate the
vehicle in accordance with federal, state, and county rules and regulations. StepHouse Recovery is not
responsible for transportation via clients’ cars. Choosing to ride in the car of another client or allow
another client to drive your car is strongly discouraged and is done at your own risk. Clients are not
permitted to drive or operate StepHouse Recovery vehicles.
Clients can also use the service Veyo for non-emergency medical transportation. This service can be
used for doctor’s appointments, meetings, therapy, etc. Call the number 1-833-648-7528 and mention
that you are a client at StepHouse Recovery.
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All drivers of vehicles who are picking up or dropping off Stephouse Recovery clients must drive currently
registered vehicles and hold a current driver’s license. Drivers may not impede residential traffic or block
driveways and must obey all traffic laws.
VISITATION POLICY
StepHouse Recovery does not allow any visitation/visitors in any of the facilities. Failure to comply will result
in discharge from the program and P.O. may be notified.
Please note that probation officers may visit any of the residences at any time and will be granted entrance.
ANY INFRACTION MAY RESULT IN BEING WRITTEN UP or TERMINATION FROM THE PROGRAM. P.O. WILL
BE NOTIFIED.
NO RESPONSIBILITY CLAUSE
Stephouse Recovery assumes no responsibility for the client’s personal property. Stephouse is released from
all liability for any loss or damage to any and all personal property. Personal property includes but is not
limited to vehicles, valuables, money, jewelry, eyeglasses, hearing aids, documents, electronic devices (i.e.,
computers, game consoles, and tablets), and mobile devices. Clients are advised to minimize the personal
property brought into residential recovery homes. All items brought to a Stephouse Recovery home are done
at the client’s own risk. Locks are not permitted on bedroom doors, and there are no exceptions to this
rule.
The client agrees to hold harmless The StepHouse Recovery, Inc, the property owners, and any and all Service
Providers/Contractors against any and all claims, demands, suits, or loss.
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ADDENDUM A
ORANGE COUNTY
SOCIAL MEDIA USE
POLICY & PROCEDURE
MAY 18, 2010
Added to the PDF version
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PURPOSE
SOC
I
A
L
MED
I
A
USE
County of Orange
County Executive Office
Information Technology
County Social Media
Use Policy and
Procedure
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Information Technology Policy and Procedure
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Subject:
County Social Media Use Policy
Number:
SM‐001
Approved By:
Orange County Board of Supervisors on May 18, 2010
Effective: May 18, 2010
Last Revision: May 18, 2010
Revision No.: 1.0
I. PURPOSE
The County of Orange has a business need to augment traditional communication
methods with the use of social media channels. This need primarily stems from public
demand and the rapid growth of social media (aka: Web 2.0) use by other local, state
and federal government entities as an indication that social media can be used
effectively to enhance constituent communications. The use of social media presents
opportunity and risk to individual County agencies and departments, as well as the
County as a whole. In general, the County supports the use of social media technology
to enhance communication, collaboration and information exchange to meet business
mission and goals.
This document establishes countywide social media use policies, protocols and
procedures intended to mitigate associated risks from use of this technology where
possible. Shall the County change its direction on social media use, this policy will be
revised and agency/department social media activity shall be adjusted accordingly.
II. APPLICABILITY
This policy applies to all County of Orange employees and approved volunteers,
consultants, service providers and contractors performing business on behalf of a
County agency/department.
Agencies/Departments using social media technology prior to the implementation of
the County’s Social Media Use Policy shall achieve full policy compliance within 90
days of the effective date of this document.
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III. RESPONSIBILITY
The County’s Social Media Policy was approved by the County Board of Supervisors on
May 18, 2010.
The County Executive Officer, or his designee, is responsible for facilitating the
County’s Social Media Policy in compliance with established Board rules and protocols.
This includes responsibility to audit agency/department use of social media and enforce
policy compliance.
Within the terms of this policy, Department Heads have authority to determine and
establish social media activity at the agency/department program level.
IV. POLICY
1. Agency/Department use of social media technology shall conform to the policies,
protocols and procedures contained, or referenced, herein.
2. An agency/department’s decision to embrace social media shall be a risk‐based
business decision approved by the Department Head and supported by a strong
business case that considers the agency/department’s mission and goals, audience,
legal risks, technical capabilities and potential benefits.
3. Access to social media networks from within the County’s IT infrastructure is
limited to individuals performing official County business and to
agencies/departments with sufficient information and technology security controls.
4. Department Heads, or designees, are responsible for determining who is authorized
to use social media on behalf of the agency/department, and for designating
appropriate access levels.
5. Agencies/Departments shall only utilize County approved social media networks
for hosting official County social media sites.
6. County agency/department social media sites shall be created and maintained in
accordance with County social network usage standards and with identifiable
characteristics of an official County site.
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7. Agencies/Departments are responsible for establishing and maintaining content
posted to their social media sites and shall have measures in effect to prevent
inappropriate or technically harmful information and links.
8. The same standards, principles and guidelines that apply to County of Orange
employees in the performance of their assigned duties apply to employee social
media technology use.
9. Agency/Department use of social media shall be documented and maintained in an
easily accessible format that tracks account information and preserves items that
may be considered a record subject to disclosure under the California’s Public
Records Act or required to be retained pursuant to the Government Code.
10. Agency/Department social media sites shall be monitored regularly and prompt
corrective action shall be taken when an issue arises that places, or has potential to
place, the County at risk.
V. PROCEDURES
Policy 1 County Social Media Technology Use
Agency/department use of social media technology shall conform to the policies,
protocols and procedures contained, or referenced, herein.
1.1. Comply with all applicable federal, state, and county laws, regulations and
policies including, but may not be limited to, copyright, records retention,
California Public Records Act, First Amendment, privacy laws, employment
related laws and County established Workforce, Information and
Technology, eGovernment and Social Media usage policies.
1.2. Be familiar and carry‐out social media activity in accordance with the
County’s Social Media Participation Guidelines, where applicable.
1.3. Establish and utilize social media in accordance with the County’s Approved
Social Media Networks and Usage Standards.
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Policy 2 Agency/Department Decision to Embrace Social Media
An agency/department’s decision to embrace social media shall be a risk‐based business
decision approved by the Department Head and supported by a strong business case
that considers the agency/department’s mission and goals, audience, legal risks,
technical capabilities and potential benefits. Agencies/Departments who choose to
utilize social media shall:
2.1. Have a strong understanding of the risks associated with using social media
in order to make an effective business decision.
2.2. Engage internal Agency/Department IT, Risk Management and County
Counsel Representatives to assess the risks of utilizing a specific County
approved social networking site in comparison with the business
opportunities expected.
2.3. Establish a well thought out social media strategy.
2.4. Develop and maintain agency/department specific social media policies and
procedures. HR shall be consulted to provide advisory on labor impacts.
2.5. Require authorized staff to complete social media security training.
2.6. Have security controls in place to protect County Information and
Technology assets.
2.7. Designate a Social Media Coordinator responsible for overseeing the
agency/department’s social media activity and policy compliance.
Policy 3 Access to Social Media Networks
Access to social media networks from within the County’s IT infrastructure is limited to
individuals performing official County business and to agencies/departments with
sufficient Information and Technology security controls.
3.1. County computers, laptops and mobile devices used to access social media
sites shall have up‐to‐date software to protect against destructive technical
incidents, including but may not be limited to, cyber, virus and
spyware/adware attacks.
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3.2. CEO IT and Agency/Department IT shall make a diligent effort to provide
authorized users access to social media networks from within
agency/department work sites.
3.3. County hosted websites shall not contain automatic feeds to uncensored
social media site content. Prior to approving content for display on County
websites, agencies/departments shall have monitoring protocols in place to
ensure content and links are appropriate and free from harmful technical
attacks.
Policy 4 Authorized Use
Department Heads, or designees, are responsible for determining who is authorized to
use social media on behalf of the agency/department, and for designating appropriate
access levels.
4.1. Social media network access shall be limited only to those with a clear
business purpose to use the forum.
4.2. Appropriate access levels include identifying what sites, or type of sites, the
individual is approved to use, as well as defining capability: publish, edit,
comment or view only.
4.3. Only Official Spokespersons, Public Information Officers and select
individuals shall have permission to create, publish or comment on behalf of
a County Agency/Department.
4.4. Authorized users shall be provided a copy of the County’s social media
policy and are required to acknowledge their understanding and acceptance
via wet signature.
Policy 5 Approved Social Media Networks
Agencies/Departments shall only utilize County approved social media networks for
hosting official County social media sites.
5.1. Social media networks under consideration will be reviewed and approved
by the County Executive Office and CEO IT with consultation from County
Counsel, HR and Risk Management when appropriate.
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5.2. For each approved social media network, usage standards will be developed
to optimize government use of the site in correlation with the County’s
overall business mission and County Social Media Use Policy.
5.3. CEO IT is responsible for maintaining the list of approved social media
networks and site related usage standards.
5.4. Social media networks on the approved list shall be reviewed bi‐annually for
changes to terms of use agreements and/or new/expired offerings.
5.5. An agency/department may request review and approval of additional social
media networks as needed.
Policy 6 Official County Social Media Sites
County agency/department social media sites shall be created and maintained in
accordance with County social network usage standards and with identifiable
characteristics of an official County site.
6.1. Social media network usage standards are accessible from CEO IT
6.2. County social media network accounts shall be created using an official
County email account, when possible.
6.3. Sites shall contain visible elements that identify them as an official County of
Orange site. Among other items, this includes displaying official County
seals, agency/department brands, contact information and a link to
agency/department websites.
6.4. County social media sites shall display, or provide a link to, the County’s
social media disclaimer and any applicable eGovernment policies.
Policy 7 Site Content
Agencies/Departments are responsible for establishing and maintaining content posted
to their social media sites and shall have measures in effect to prevent inappropriate or
technically harmful information and links.
7.1. As is the case for County of Orange web sites, agencies/departments are
responsible for the content and upkeep of their social media sites.
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7.2. County websites shall remain the primary and predominant source for
Internet information.
7.3. Social media content shall fully comply with the County’s eGovernment
Appropriateness of Content Policy.
7.4. Information and comments shared through social media channels shall fully
comply with agency/department Communications Policies and Procedures
and shall not disclose confidential or proprietary information.
7.5. Sharing or posting content owned by others shall be performed in accordance
with copyright, fair use and established laws pertaining to materials owned
by others. This includes, but is not limited to, quotes, images, documents,
links, etc.
7.6. Use of sites that are not Section 508 web accessible shall contain “simple” text
links to identical material on a compliant website or other social media
network.
7.7. Electronic information posted to a social media site by the County, or a
member of the public, may be considered a record subject to California’s
Public Record Act.
7.8. It is not intended to use social media sites in a way that guarantees the right
to protected free speech. Each agency/department is responsible for
monitoring postings, and taking appropriate action when necessary, to
protect general site visitors from inappropriate or technically harmful
information and links.
7.9. Sites that allow public comment shall inform visitors of the intended purpose
of the site and provide a clear statement of the discussion topic introduced for
public comment so that the public is aware of the limited nature of the
discussion and that inappropriate posts are subject to removal, including but
not limited to the following types of postings regardless of format (text,
video, images, links, documents, etc.):
7.9.1. comments not topically related;
7.9.2. profane language or content;
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7.9.3. content that promotes, fosters or perpetuates discrimination on the
basis of race, creed, color, age, religion, gender, marital status,
status with regards to public assistance, national origin, physical or
mental disability or sexual orientation;
7.9.4. sexual content or links to sexual content;
7.9.5. solicitations of commerce;
7.9.6. conduct or encouragement of illegal activity or political
involvement;
7.9.7. information that may tend to compromise the safety or security of
the public or public systems;
7.9.8. content that violates a legal ownership interest of any other party.
7.10. Agencies/Departments choosing to allow posts from the public on County
social network sites, shall prominently display, or provide a link to, the
County’s eGovernment Comment Policy.
7.11. Agencies/Departments choosing to use public comments shall consult with
County Counsel to develop agency‐ or department‐specific disclaimers to
meet the County’s legal needs. County Counsel may also be consulted to
determine whether to remove comments that violate this policy.
7.12. County Blogs shall be established with moderated controls, which at
minimum require that blog post (comments) be approved prior to blog
publishing.
7.12.1. Agencies/Departments that choose to use blogs shall designate a
moderator whose responsibilities will include the review of any
comments submitted as part of an online discussion.
7.12.2. Comments or posts that do not comply with the County’s
eGovernment Comment Policy or Appropriateness of Content
Policy shall not be approved for blog publishing.
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Policy 8 User Behavior
The same standards, principles and guidelines that apply to County of Orange
employees in the performance of their assigned duties apply to employee social media
technology use.
8.1. County workforce members authorized to use social media technology shall
do so only within the scope defined by their respective agency/department
per policy 4 of this document and in compliance with all County Workforce,
eGovernment and IT policies, practices and use agreements.
8.2. It is strongly recommended that social media use be performed within the
County’s established Social Media Guidelines.
8.3. Authorized social network spokespersons participating in personal social
networking discussions related to County business matters shall indicate that
viewpoints are personal and may not reflect County opinion.
8.4. Authorized County social media users shall complete social media security
training.
8.5. Workforce members performing County social media work beyond normal
work hours shall receive pre‐authorization from the agency/department.
8.6. Employees shall obey all laws, including but not limited to, the Hatch Act of
1939, when using social media.
Policy 9 Records Management
Agency/Department use of social media shall be documented and maintained in an
easily accessible format that tracks account information and preserves items that may be
considered a record subject to disclosure under the California’s Public Records Act or
required to be retained pursuant to the Government Code.
9.1. Agencies/Departments are responsible for the creation, administration and
deactivation of social media accounts.
9.1.1. Account password information shall only be shared with
authorized staff that has been designated by the Department Head,
or her/his designee, to fulfill the role of site account administrator.
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9.1.2. Passwords shall conform to County complex password
requirements when permissible.
9.1.3. Account password shall promptly be reset when an employee is
removed as an account administrator.
9.2. Agencies/Departments shall maintain a record of social media sites created
for County use, including, but may not be limited to:
9.2.1. A log file containing the name of the social media network, account
id, password, registered email address, date established,
authorizing representative and name of person who created
account and agreed to the sites terms of use agreement and/or
policy.
9.2.2. A record of the sites usage agreement at the time the site was
created and any updated versions.
9.2.3. A list of authorized site content authors and editors.
9.3. Electronic information posted to a social media site by the County, or a
member of the public if permitted, may be considered a record subject to
California’s Public Record Act.
9.3.1. Any content maintained in a social media format that is related to
County business, including a list of subscribers and County or
public posted communication, may be a public record.
Agencies/Departments shall have procedures in effect to preserve
published social media content.
9.3.2. The Agency/Department maintaining the site is responsible for
responding completely and accurately to any public records
request for public records on social media.
9.3.3. Site content shall be maintained in accordance with its respective
Records Retention Schedule and in accordance with County IT
policies and procedures. If the content constitutes a public record,
it must be disclosed to the public unless an exemption applies.
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9.3.4. Posts deemed technically harmful or inappropriate per policy 7
shall be promptly documented, saved pursuant to IT policies and
procedures regarding record retention and removed.
9.4. Agencies/Departments shall maintain a record of signed social media policy
acknowledgement forms for each authorized user.
Policy 10 Site Monitoring
Agency/Department social media sites shall be monitored regularly and prompt
corrective action shall be taken when an issue arises that places, or has potential to
place, the County at risk.
10.1. Agency/Department social media site administrators shall review site activity
and content daily for exploitation or misuse.
10.2. Agency/Departments that allow the public to post comments, links or
material directly onto their social media sites shall have an established
process, including technical capability outside of the County’s network, to
verify that postings meet the rules established under policy 7 of this
document. Posts deemed technically harmful or inappropriate shall be
handled per procedure 9.3.4. Agencies/Departments choosing to use public
comments shall consult with County Counsel to develop agency‐ or
department‐specific disclaimers to meet the County’s legal needs. County
Counsel may also be consulted to determine whether to remove comments
that violate this policy.
10.3. Agencies/Departments shall be responsible for monitoring employee use of
social media and social networking websites.
10.4. Perceived or known compromises to the County’s internal network shall be
promptly reported to CEO IT’s Chief Security Officer.
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VI. RELATED REFERENCES
1. County Approved Social Media Networks and Standards
2. County Social Media Participation Guidelines
3. County eGovernment Policies and Standards
4. County Internet and Data System Use Agreement
5. County Electronic Records Management Policy
6. County Legal Hold Policy
7. California Public Records Act
8. Agency/Department Public Information Policies and Procedures
9. Agency/Department Records Retention Policies and Schedules
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VII. DEFINITIONS
Social Media and Web 2.0 ‐ The U.S. Government defines social media and Web 2.0 as
umbrella terms that define the various activities that integrate technology, social
interaction, and content creation. Through social media, individuals or collaborations of
individuals can create web content, organize content, edit or comment on content,
combine content, and share content. Social media and Web 2.0 uses many technologies
and forms, including RSS and other syndicated web feeds, blogs, wikis, photo–sharing,
video–sharing, podcast, social bookmarking, mashups, widgets, virtual worlds, micro–
blogs, and more. Not all forms of social media may be appropriate for use by County
agencies and departments.
Official County Email Account – Email account provided by an agency/department
mail system or approved external mailbox that is used for official County business.
Approved County Social Networking Site – Refers to social networks that the County
Executive Office has assessed and approved for use by County Agencies and
Departments.
Moderated Blog – The practice of approving blog contributor content (often referred to
as user post or comments) prior to the content being displayed to blog visitors.
Agency/Department Designated Blog Moderator – A County of Orange workforce
member assigned to monitor and manage the stream of user contributions and
interactions with an online County blog. In general, the blog moderator’s responsibility
is to promote the quality and effectiveness of the blog and to insure that blog content,
including user post, is in compliance with County policy.
Post ‐ A user submitted message that may include comments and/or one or more links
to online information including but may not be limited to websites, video, images,
documents, computer applications, etc.
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Revision History:
Revision No. Revision Date Author Description
v1.0 3/30/2010 CEO‐IT Document originated
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ATTACHMENT 7
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From:ddavis@teac.com
To:PLANNING INFO
Subject:Official Public Notice: Application No. PGSH-24-0002
Date:Tuesday, October 14, 2025 11:28:06 PM
To whom it may concern:
I received an Official Public Notice regarding application no. PGSH-24-0002
for a sober living house at 1601 Baker Street. The notice states that public
comments must be submitted by 12:00 PM on the date of the meeting.
Following are my comments:
I implore the Planning Department not to allow a half way house in the middle
of a prime, family, residential community at 1601 Baker Street. I own property
at Baker and Royal Palm. There are many young and teenage children that
walk that section of Baker to access the shopping on Harbor Blvd. None of us
want to have a child violated.
The property is listed as having 4 bedrooms and two bathrooms. The
application is for 7 adults. This is too many adults in the facility which could
lead to problems with the neighbors, parking problems, trash and other
conditions caused by over crowding.
There are areas of Costa Mesa that are more suited to sober living, sex
offenders and halfway houses. This residential community is not so suited.
Please do not allow this residential home to be overcrowded and endanger the
neighborhood.
Respectfully,
Derek Davis
PO Box 10343
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
NOTICE: This electronic mail message and its contents, including any attachments hereto
(collectively, "this e-mail"), is hereby designated as "confidential and proprietary." This e-mail
may be viewed and used only by the person to whom it has been sent and his/her employer
solely for the express purpose for which it has been disclosed and only in accordance with any
confidentiality or non-disclosure (or similar) agreement between TEAC Corporation or its
affiliates and said employer, and may not be disclosed to any other person or entity.
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open
attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Report any
ATTACHMENT 8
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suspicious activities to the Information Technology Department.
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From:Ronn Waters
To:PLANNING INFO
Subject:Application PGSH-24-0002
Date:Thursday, October 9, 2025 4:06:22 PM
Why would you put a Sober Living Home next door to a Group Home for Kids. That does not
sound helpful nor safe. For either.
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open
attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Report any
suspicious activities to the Information Technology Department.
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From:Ronn Waters
To:PLANNING INFO
Subject:Application PGSH-24-0002
Date:Thursday, October 9, 2025 11:06:17 AM
Public Notice Comment:
The SUP would make a bad parking situation worse. There is already one Group Home on
Baker street and their staff/interns take up a lot of the available street parking. Those of us
who actually pay taxes here are not able to park in front of our homes.
The sidewalks of the recovery homes on Royal Palm are littered with cigarette butts. We don't
need that on Baker street.
Ronn Waters
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open
attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Report any
suspicious activities to the Information Technology Department.
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