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

WMC 12.20.010(A) bars any excavation, encroachment, construction, or placement of soil or materials in an improved or unimproved street, alley or public place, or in city-owned property or rights-of-way (including curbs, sidewalks, gutters, driveways, sewers and storm drains) without a written permit and approved lines and grades from the city engineer. Section 12.20.020 splits encroachments into major, such as basement vaults, bridges, retaining structures over three feet high, or fences over six feet, requiring a permit granted by city council resolution at its sole discretion (12.20.010(G)(2)); and minor, such as bike racks, benches, driveways, and fences under six feet, approved directly by the city engineer (12.20.010(G)(3)).

Permit applications require a site sketch or plan and, for major encroachments, posting a notice of intent to encroach before city council consideration (12.20.030(A)-(B)). A security deposit, cashier's check, certificate of deposit or surety bond, may be required and stays in force up to one year after work completes (12.20.030(C)). Fees are set by council resolution (12.20.010(H)). Denials of minor-encroachment permits may be appealed to the city council within thirty days of the decision (12.20.030(B)(3)); major-permit variance denials may be appealed within ten days with a filing fee (12.20.010(B)).

Prohibited encroachments include loading docks, underground tanks or vaults (except utility-owned), and permanent advertising-sign structures (12.20.080(A)). Emergency repairs may proceed without a permit if the city office is closed, provided the owner notifies police and Underground Service Alert first and applies the next business day (12.20.010(I)).