LA County Code Title 13.36.050 prohibits drinking alcoholic beverages in unincorporated parks, beaches, parking lots, and public streets without a permit. California Business and Professions Code Section 25620 also makes possessing an open container in any public place a statewide infraction enforced by LASD.
Two layers govern public drinking in LA County. State law at Business and Professions Code 25620 prohibits possession of an open container of alcohol in any public place or any place open to public view, including streets, sidewalks, and parking lots. LA County Code Title 13.36.050 separately bans alcohol consumption and possession in county parks, beaches, harbors, and public rights-of-way without a permit. Beaches and Harbors and Parks and Recreation can issue limited event permits for picnic areas and special events. The Sheriff and park rangers enforce. Many incorporated cities have additional open-container ordinances, especially near beaches, sports venues, and downtown districts.
Violations are infractions starting around $100 to $250 under BPC 25620 and LACO Title 13.36, plus court fees. Conduct involving public intoxication or driving under the influence escalates to misdemeanor charges under Penal Code 647(f) or Vehicle Code 23152.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena restricts overnight street parking in certain posted areas. Vehicles left on public streets for 72+ hours may be cited as abandoned per CA Vehicle C...
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena has extensive metered and permit parking. Vehicles may not remain parked in one spot on a public street for more than 72 hours. Residential permit p...
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena requires EV-ready infrastructure in new construction per California Green Building Standards (CALGreen). Pasadena Water & Power offers EV charging p...
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena enforces 100 ft defensible space per CA PRC 4291 in fire hazard zones. Zone 1 (0-30 ft) and Zone 2 (30-100 ft) requirements apply. Annual brush clea...
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena allows recreational fire pits in approved containers at least 15 feet from structures. Gas-fueled fire pits are preferred. Wood-burning pits are sub...
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena prohibits open burning under South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 444 and the California Fire Code. Burning trash, yard waste, and debri...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
See how other cities in Los Angeles County handle public alcohol use.
See how Pasadena's public alcohol use rules stack up against other locations.
Quick Compare
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.