Pasadena's Public Health Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles public health rules a little differently. In Pasadena, California, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Restaurant Grade Cards

Every retail food establishment in Pasadena, from restaurants to bakeries and markets, must post the health department's inspection summary report where patrons can see it. Chapter 8.13 requires posting within 5 feet of the front door, bars removal of the report, and lets inspectors close a business immediately if public health is at risk.

Key details: Governing chapter: Pasadena Municipal Code Chapter 8.13, adopted 2003. Posting location: Within 5 feet of the front door. Covered businesses: Restaurants, delis, fast food, bars, bakeries, markets. Violation: Misdemeanor or administrative citation under Chapter 1.26. Removal penalty: Suspension or revocation of health permit.

Operating without the required posting, or removing, defacing or hiding the inspection summary report, is a misdemeanor under Section 8.13.080, though the city can instead pursue it through the administrative citation process in Chapter 1.26 before a city-appointed hearing officer. Removal alone can also cost the business its public health permit through suspension or revocation, independent of any criminal or citation track.

Rodent Control

Pasadena property owners must keep buildings and lots ratproofed and free of rodent harborage under the rat and insect control ordinance, Chapter 8.28. Dumping rubbish that could feed or shelter rats is banned, foundation vents need quarter-inch screening, and the health officer can order extermination or demolition when a building is infested.

Key details: Governing chapter: Pasadena Municipal Code Chapter 8.28. Ratproofing duty: Structures, sheds, garages must exclude rodents. Vent screening: Openings no greater than 1/4 inch. Storage clearance: Materials 18 inches up, 12 inches from walls. Inspection hours: Health officer can enter 9 a.m.-5 p.m..

Failing to abate a rat infestation after written notice, refusing entry to the health officer between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., or tampering with a trap or bait station the health officer placed all violate Chapter 8.28. An infested building is itself declared a public nuisance under Section 8.28.011, subject to abatement, and an owner who does not comply with a demolition or repair notice within the deadline the health officer sets is in violation of Section 8.28.090.

The Bottom Line

Pasadena's public health rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Pasadena is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Pasadena's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.