Frequently Asked Questions

What if I am not sure that what I see is a violation?

Please call it in anyway. When your complaint is taken in you will be advised if it is a violation.

What happens once I call in my complaint?

The complaint is logged in and given a complaint number. That complaint is then forwarded to the Code Enforcement Officer assigned to that area. A notice requesting an inspection will be sent out to the property owner and an inspection scheduled. If a violation is found to be valid a notice of correction is issued to the owner and/or tenant and a specific time for compliance given. Subsequent follow-up inspections will be conducted until compliance is obtained.

Do I have to give you my name and address?

No, all complaints remain anonymous. However, you may leave your name and number if you wish to be contacted regarding the complaint.

How can I file a complaint in the evenings or on weekends?

Code Enforcement has a 24 hour anonymous 'Hot line' that you can call and report your concerns at (323) 563-9598; or
You may come into the Building & Safety Division during regular business hours, and ask any questions you may have about Code Enforcement -- or -
You may also speak to your assigned area officer between 8 a.m. to 9 a.m., Monday through Thursday.

I have a garage that I don't use for parking, can I use for a playroom or bedroom?

No, garages, storage rooms, and similar rooms cannot be used as living, sleeping, or recreation rooms, even if only for short period, without approvals from the City 'Planning' and 'Building' Divisions in the Community Development Department.

I want to build a bathroom inside my garage so that my children can use it instead of coming in the house all the time. Do I need a permit?

Unfortunately, bathrooms that are not attached to the house are not permitted by code, therefore a permit would not be granted.

I want to build a small room to store gardening tools and my trash cans. Do I need a permit?

You do not need a permit to build a structure that is 120 square feet or less (approximately 10' by 12') if it is a minimum of 6 feet away from other structures, and 3 feet from the property line.

What does not require a permit?

One story detached accessory buildings used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses "providing" the floor area does not exceed 120 sq. ft.
Fences, wood, chain link or plain wrought iron that does not exceed 3' in the front yard and 6' feet in the rear yard (however the City does have height and placement regulations regarding fencing, please check with the Planning Division for these requirements).
Retaining walls that are not over four feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge or impound Class I, II, or III-a liquids.
Platforms, walks, driveways not more than 30 inches above grade and not over any basement or story below.
Painting, papering, and similar finish work.
Window awnings supported by an exterior wall of Group R Division 3 and Group U occupancies when projecting not more than 54 inches.
Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to Group R, Division 3 Occupancy in which the pool walls are entirely above the adjacent grade and if the capacity DOES NOT exceed 5,000 gallons

What are some of the common items that require a permit?

Changing your windows.
Installation of lawn sprinklers
Remodeling kitchen or bathroom
Re-roofing of more than 10 sq. ft.
Installation of window bars.
Stucco work, sandblasting.
Installation of a new water heater or replacement of an old one.
Relocation of an existing water heater (requires planning approval).
Changing and/or installation of fixtures such as toilets, lavatories, bathtubs, dishwashers.
Installation of through the wall air conditioners.
Installation of forced air units.
Alteration of electrical, plumbing, or mechanical fixtures.
Blockwall fencing.
Room additions, patios, spas.
Installation and/or replacement of water lines.

Where can I get more information on specific Code Requirements?

You can obtain more information regarding any proposed project at the Building and Safety Counter. It is located at the back of the building.
Copies of all adopted code books are available at the Leland Weaver Library for your use.