Los Angeles vs Palmdale
How do public urination rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Palmdale, CA?
Los Angeles and Palmdale have similar restriction levels.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
LAMC Section 41.47.2 prohibits urinating or defecating on any public street, sidewalk, alley, park, or other place open to public view in Los Angeles. Violations are infractions, though officers retain discretion to charge a misdemeanor for repeat or aggravated conduct.
View full Los Angeles rules →Palmdale, CA
Los Angeles County
LA County Code Title 13.10 and Title 13.32, together with the LA County Public Health Code, prohibit urinating or defecating in any public place or on private property visible from a public way. Violations are infractions starting at $250 enforced by the Sheriff's Department and Public Health.
View full Palmdale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Palmdale |
|---|---|---|
| Code section | LAMC Section 41.47.2 | - |
| Base fine | Approximately $100 infraction | Approximately $250 infraction |
| Covers | Streets, sidewalks, parks, alleys | - |
| Misdemeanor option | Repeat or aggravated cases | - |
| Restroom defense | Use of facility is exempt | - |
| Primary code | - | LACO Title 13.10, 13.32 |
| Health authority | - | LA County Public Health |
| Enforcement | - | LA County Sheriff |
| State backstop | - | California Penal Code 647 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
Does it count if I am behind a dumpster or bush?
Yes if the location is in any place open to public view, including private property visible from a public way. Only enclosed restrooms or fully screened private space avoids violation.
Will a citation appear on a background check?
An infraction generally does not. A misdemeanor filing will, and aggravated cases involving minors can trigger registration screening, so contesting the charge classification is worthwhile.
Palmdale FAQ
What if there is no public restroom available?
Lack of a restroom is not a defense in LA County. The county recommends planning routes and using businesses, parks, or transit stations with public facilities, particularly along high-traffic corridors and beach areas.
Can my private yard count as a public place?
Yes if it is visible from a sidewalk, street, or neighbor's window. The ordinance reaches private property visible from a public way to address health and decency concerns under Title 13.
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