FAQ

Top Questions


How can I find out if work that is being done has a permit?
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What are the fare rates for the City's Trolley system?
All Trolley service is now provided free of charge.... (more)

How do I request service for a pothole/graffiti/tree maintenance/etc.?
To report a problem, ple... (more)

When do the Summer Trolleys operate?
The Summer Festival Trolley Service operates from the end of June until the day before Labor Day.  Exact start date... (more)

My neighbor's trees are blocking my view. Is there an ordinance that regulates the height of trees or hedges?
If the property does not have an approved landscape plan and/or design review conditions related to landscaping, then ... (more)

Which building projects require a permit?
Permits are required when you are constructing, altering, moving, adding to, repairing or demolishing a structure on pri... (more)

Are leaf blowers allowed in the City?
The use of electrical or gasoline powered blowers, such as commonly used by gardeners and other persons for cleaning law... (more)

How do I report Graffiti?
To report any graffiti, please submit your request ... (more)

My neighbor's trees are blocking my view. Is there an ordinance that regulates the height of trees or hedges?
If the property does not have an approved landscape plan and/or design review conditions related to landscaping, then th... (more)

What building codes are enforced in Laguna Beach?
California Building Code 2019 edition; Laguna Beach Muni... (more)

Do I need a building permit for minor projects such as patios and walls, or interior bathroom or kitchen ...
The majority of site improvements require a building permit however there are certain minor improvem... (more)

Do I need a Business License?
A business license is required for all businesses that are located or doing business within the City. ... (more)

How long do the meters operate?
Daily metered street parking is available and enforced from 8am-9pm at all meters in the downtown area and until 7p.m. o... (more)

I am a homeowner and I am thinking of adding a room to my house.  What do I need to do?
Contact the Community Development Department at (949) 497-0712 or visit the Community Development Department public ... (more)

My neighbor is making a lot of noise in their garage. What are the restrictions?
The operation of a business out of a garage is prohibited. Individuals are allowed to work in their garages for mino... (more)

Can trash receptacles be stored in public view?
No, trash receptacles must be stored out of public view. Areas for trash and outdoor storage shall be provided on each p... (more)

Cool roofs, when are they required?
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How do I apply for a building permit?
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My neighbor's tree overhangs into my property.
This is a civil matter and there is no ordinance that regulates this type of encroachment. It is the City's goal that ne... (more)

How do I report a pothole in the street?
To report a pothole or non-emergency situation that requires attention, please click ... (more)

Do I need a permit to remove a tree from my property?
Trees that are on the CIty's heritage tree list, trees that are part of a landscape plan approved through the design rev... (more)

Where is the Laguna Beach Animal Shelter?What are the hours of operation?Where can I park? 
Where is the Laguna Beach Animal Shelter? Clic... (more)

How long can I park my car at a metered parking space?
All parking meters indicate the hourly cost and the maximum time a vehicle may be parked at the meter.... (more)

How do I get a parking permit?
 All parking permits can be purchased over-the-counter at the City Hall Cashier Counter, Monday through Friday... (more)

How do I apply for a Conditional Use Permit? What is a Conditional Use Permit?
The purpose of a Conditional User Permit is to allow for special consideration of certain specified uses which may or ma... (more)

What should I do about a truck, trailer, boat, camper, or jet ski parked in the street or in my neighborhood?
Trailers, campers, boats and other mobile vehicles or equipment stored or parked in front yards and/or setback areas or ... (more)

How long is my permit valid?
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What permits, other than a business license, are required to open a restaurant?
Any business serving food requires an Orange County health permit and inspection. Contact the Orange County Environme... (more)

Is city approval required to make minor improvements to the tenant space I want to locate my business in?
Most tenant improvements, ranging from simple improvements to more complex improvements, require a building permit. You ... (more)

My neighbor's outdoor lights shine into my home at night, what can I do?
Light trespass that results in glare is prohibited. All outdoor lighting must be hooded, fully shielded, and aimed do... (more)

What Goes Where?
The gray-lidded cart is for recyclables, the green-lidded cart is for green waste, and the blue-lidded cart is for t... (more)

Are there restrictions on the heights/types of plants/trees that can be planted on a residential property?
Parcels with an approved landscape plan from Design Review will be conditioned with the type and number of plants and ... (more)

How do I report debris in the public right of way?
To report debris in the public right of way, please ... (more)

How much does it cost to park for one hour?
The cost per hour to park is posted at each parking lot. The price will vary depending upon the location of the lot.&nbs... (more)

How do I get a copy of a City Document?
Copies of Public Records may be obtained by submitting a public records request through the online portal: ... (more)

When will the inspector come out after I request an inspection?
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How do I determine if my business is allowed at the location that I have selected?
The City's Zoning Ordinance permits certain types of businesses in specific areas of the City. Planning staff will as... (more)

What are the hours for engaging in maintenance of real property (mowing, home improvement projects not requ...
Hours are 8:00 am-6:00 pm. Trimming or pruning with chainsaws or mulching machines is restricted to 8:00 a.m. - 6:00... (more)

How do I know where my property lines are located?
A boundary survey is the only way to precisely locate property boundaries. There may howeve... (more)

My neighbor's air conditioner compressor (AC) is making a lot of noise, what can I do about it?
Neighbors should try to mediate a solution. The City does not regulate the installation and use of window ACs. An A... (more)

I sold my car, how do I get a replacement permit?
Parking permits are not transferrable from one vehicle to another. If you sell your car or if your car is in an accident... (more)

How much does it cost to use the pool? 
Drop in price is $2.00.A punch-pass, good for 20 uses, costs $30.00, with no expiration date.... (more)

Does the city have sign regulations that are applicable to my business?
Yes. Laguna Beach has a sign ordinance that governs all signs. Planning staff will assist you at the Planning Counter... (more)

How do I get the City to address a traffic or parking related request?
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