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.
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 public urination rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.