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.
Public urination and defecation in unincorporated LA County are prohibited under multiple overlapping code sections covering public peace and public health. Title 13.10 addresses indecent conduct in public, while Title 13.32 and the LA County Public Health Code treat human waste in public spaces as a health nuisance. The rules cover sidewalks, alleys, parking structures, parks, beaches, transit stations, and any private property visible from a public way. Limited exceptions exist for emergencies, infants, and people with documented medical conditions. The Sheriff's Department issues citations in unincorporated areas and contract cities, with Public Health responding to repeat or commercial violations. California Penal Code 647 also reaches some conduct as a misdemeanor.
First offense is typically an infraction with a fine starting around $250 plus court fees. Repeat offenses or conduct near schools and parks can be charged as a misdemeanor under Penal Code 647 or Title 13 with additional penalties.
See how Santa Monica's public urination rules stack up against other locations.
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