LA County Building and Safety investigates code complaints through scheduled inspections. Emergency safety hazards are prioritized, while routine complaints are generally investigated within 10-15 business days of filing. Complex cases involving permits or legal action may take longer.
When a code enforcement complaint is filed with LA County DPW Building and Safety, the case is assigned to an inspector. Emergency situations involving immediate threats to life or safety (structural collapse, exposed wiring, gas leaks) are prioritized and may be investigated within 24-48 hours. Routine complaints, such as unpermitted construction, overgrown vegetation, or property maintenance issues, are typically investigated within 10-15 business days. After investigation, the property owner receives a notice of violation with a compliance deadline, usually 30 days for minor issues. If the owner fails to comply, the county may pursue administrative citations, liens, or refer the case to the District Attorney's office.
Failure to comply with a notice of violation may result in administrative citations of $100-$500 per day, property liens, or referral for criminal prosecution.
Altadena, CA
LA County allows backyard chickens in R-1 zones in unincorporated areas (including Altadena) subject to coop setbacks under LA County Code Title 10 and Title...
Altadena, CA
LA County Code Section 10.32.010 prohibits dogs running at large in any public place or private property other than the owner's, unless restrained by a chain...
Altadena, CA
Trimming protected oak trees (≥8 in DBH) requires an Oak Tree Permit if the work enters the protected zone or removes >25% of crown. Street trees in the publ...
Altadena, CA
In Altadena's Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, grass and weeds must be kept under 3 inches under LA County Fire Code Title 32 defensible-space rules.
Altadena, CA
LA County Fire's Brush Clearance program also functions as the weed-abatement ordinance — vacant and improved lots must keep weeds and grasses cut to under 3...
Altadena, CA
Outdoor watering in Altadena (served by Lincoln Avenue Water Co., Las Flores Water Co., Rubio Cañon, and Kinneloa Irrigation District) is limited to 2 days p...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
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