LA County Code prohibits obstructing public sidewalks and rights-of-way in unincorporated areas. A minimum 4-foot clear path must be maintained for ADA compliance. Encroachment permits are required for any permanent or semi-permanent use of sidewalk space.
LA County Code and California Vehicle Code §22500 prohibit blocking or obstructing public sidewalks and pedestrian pathways. In unincorporated areas, all objects placed on sidewalks — including merchandise displays, signs, planters, and furniture — must maintain a minimum 4-foot clear pedestrian pathway per ADA standards. Temporary obstructions for construction require an encroachment permit from Public Works with provisions for pedestrian detour. Vegetation from private property that encroaches onto sidewalks must be trimmed by the property owner to maintain at least 8 feet of vertical clearance and the full sidewalk width. Trash bins may only be placed on sidewalks during designated collection periods. The Department of Public Works enforces obstruction rules and may remove unpermitted obstructions.
Obstruction of a public sidewalk may result in citations and removal of the obstruction at the owner's expense. ADA obstruction complaints may trigger federal investigations. Fines range from $50 to $500.
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 Pasadena's obstruction rules rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.