California SB-721 (apartments) and SB-326 (HOA condos) require periodic inspection of exterior elevated elements like balconies and walkways. LACoDPW enforces in unincorporated areas; first SB-721 inspections were due January 1, 2025, with nine-year cycles.
SB-721 (Health & Safety Code §17973), enacted after the 2015 Berkeley balcony collapse, requires owners of buildings with three or more multifamily units to inspect exterior elevated elements (balconies, decks, stairways, walkways) supported by wood or wood-based products at least six feet above the ground. The first inspection was due January 1, 2025, repeating every nine years. SB-326 imposes parallel rules on HOA-governed condominiums, with first reports due January 1, 2025, repeating every nine years. Inspections must be performed by a licensed architect, civil/structural engineer, or qualified contractor. LACoDPW Building & Safety enforces in unincorporated areas; emergency repairs require permits under Title 26.
Failure to inspect or repair triggers administrative citations up to $500 per day under SB-721 §17973(j). Unsafe-condition reports require notice to occupants within 15 days and posting until repaired. Recurring noncompliance can become a misdemeanor under Title 26.
Los Angeles County, CA
The 2022 LA County Curb Management Strategy prioritizes pickup and dropoff over parking and loading in commercial corridors. DPW retrofits curb zones using a...
Los Angeles County, CA
LA County Code Title 12.84 bans expanded polystyrene takeout containers at unincorporated-area food businesses. California AB-1201 sets ASTM compostability l...
Los Angeles County, CA
LA County Code Title 12.84 (Ord. 2008-0006) bans expanded polystyrene foam cups at all county facilities and food vendors operating on county property. Calif...
Los Angeles County, CA
California AB-1276 prohibits restaurants and food vendors from automatically providing single-use foodware accessories. Utensils, straws, condiments, and sti...
Los Angeles County, CA
FilmLA processes commercial filming permits for unincorporated LA County, coordinating with Public Works on road closures, LA County Sheriff for traffic and ...
Los Angeles County, CA
LA County Fire Code Title 32 §6101 caps propane patio heaters at one 20-pound cylinder per heater on commercial patios with 10-foot clearance from buildings....
See how Los Angeles County's balcony inspection program rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.