Alhambra, CA Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)

Alhambra Municipal Code Section 13.32.090 makes it unlawful to place, install, or maintain any object on or in a public place without first obtaining a written permit from the Director of Public Works, with a right to appeal an unfavorable decision to the City Council. An OBJECT is defined at Section 13.32.010 as anything permanent or semi-permanent that obstructs or interferes with public use of a public place, including benches, receptacles, mailboxes, bicycle racks, clocks, flower pots, trees, or urns; newsracks are covered separately under Chapter 13.34 and temporary construction obstructions under Chapter 13.36.

A separate permit is required for each object under Section 13.32.100, and the application under Section 13.32.110 must show the applicant's name and address, the proposed location, how many other object permits the applicant already holds, and a description of the object's use, dimensions, and materials. Section 13.32.120 requires a nonrefundable inspection fee set by City Council resolution with each application. Sections 13.32.050 through 13.32.070 require the permittee to post and maintain public liability insurance at limits set by Council resolution. Permits are revocable if the object is not installed within 60 days, or at the City Council's pleasure after 30 days' notice, and unpermitted objects are removed by the Director of Public Works under Section 13.32.040.