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Featured Questions
How can I report a tripping hazard in the street or on a sidewalk?- To report a tripping hazard in the public right of way, please click ... (more)
- To report a tripping hazard in the public right of way, please click HERE, or you can call the Public Works Department directly at (949) 497-0711 during normal business hours.
If the tripping hazard can potentially cause an accident or is hazardous, please call Police Dispatch at (949) 497-0701.
(FAQ10130)
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What is the difference between a private project and an assessment district?- Private projects involve property owners working together with the utility companies to accomplish the undergrounding... (more)
Private projects involve property owners working together with the utility companies to accomplish the undergrounding privately. Assessment districts involve property owners that petition the City to form an assessment district.
(FAQ9916)
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Who can start a project?- Both private and assessment district processes require one or more property owners to act as the neighborhood liaison be... (more)
- Both private and assessment district processes require one or more property owners to act as the neighborhood liaison between neighbors and the City and/or utility company representatives. The property owner informally surveys all affected property owners in the area to determine if there is sufficient support for undergrounding. The City will assist in creating a boundary map for the project based upon the information gathered from the survey.
(FAQ9917)
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Where can I get more detailed information about undergrounding utilities?- For more information, please visit the ... (more)
For more information, please visit the City's website.
(FAQ9918)
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How do I register for a recreation class?- You can register ONLINE... (more)
You can register ONLINE, by mail, or in person at the front counter of the Community Services Department located at 515 Forest Ave, Laguna Beach, CA 92651. For additional information on how to register for recreation classes please call (949) 464-6645.
(FAQ9238)
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What is the Disposable Bag Ordinance?- ... (more)
- Ordinance No. 1561 (2012) - Prohibits retail businesses from using certain petroleum and bio-based plastic bags. https://ecode360.com/42887100
(FAQ9132)
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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)
- Daily metered street parking is available and enforced from 8am-9pm at all meters in the downtown area and until 7p.m. outside of downtown. Credit cards and quarters are accepted at all parking meters.
(FAQ8752)
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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)
All parking permits can be purchased over-the-counter at the City Hall Cashier Counter, Monday through Friday 8 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Additionally, Shopper Permits can also be purchased online by clicking HERE.
(FAQ8742)
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When do I need a Coastal Development Permit?- ... (more)
The primary purpose of a Coastal Development Permit is to ensure that development within the Coastal Zone is consistent with all Local Coastal Program policies and the public access and public recreation policies of the Coastal Act. The Coastal Zone is established under the California Coastal Act, and is considered to have many special natural and scenic qualities that require protection. This zone encompasses all of Laguna Beach except for the Sycamore Hills area. Coastal Development Permits are issued by the City because Laguna Beach has a certified Local Coastal Program. However, a few areas in the City have deferred certification and remain under the Coastal Commission’s jurisdiction.
Process
In accordance with the Coastal Act, many different types of projects including subdivisions, road extensions, grading, design review, conditional use permits, etc. may require a Coastal Development Permit. However, the Coastal Development Permit review process is conducted concurrently with the primary permit review required for each project itself. In general, the process for Coastal Development Permits can be summarized as follows:
Step 1 – Applicant Consideration of Project: Early in the consideration of a potential project, the applicant should carefully review the Coastal Land Use Plan (Land Use and Open Space Elements of the General Plan) and the Coastal Development Permit Ordinance. Planning staff should be consulted on whether the project will require a Coastal Development Permit and for opinions on consistency of the project with the Local Coastal Program.
Step 2 – Pre-Application Conference: Depending of the scope of the project, the applicant may wish to make an appointment to meet with a member of the Planning or Zoning staff to discuss project feasibility or process procedure prior to submitting a formal application.
Step 3 – Determination of Coastal Development Category: All development proposals must be reviewed by the Planning or Zoning staff to determine the applicable coastal regulations. A determination must be made: 1) as to whether the project requires a Coastal Development Permit; 2) whether the permit is issued by the City or the Coastal Commission; and 3) if the permit is issued by the City, whether it can be appealed to the Coastal Commission.
Step 4 – Filing of Application: The applicant will need to submit the Coastal Development Permit application, including a location map, site plan with all required information, filing fee and noticing materials in conjunction with the primary project application. A staff planner will be assigned to review the material to make sure all the required information is provided. The applicant will be notified within 30 days after filing as to whether the application is complete or what addition information is required.
Step 5 – Public Hearing: At least one public hearing is required for Coastal Development Permit projects that are appealable to the Coastal Commission. Other projects will require public hearings as specified in the Municipal Code.
During the public hearing, staff will make a report and recommendation. This presentation will be followed by testimony from the applicant and any other interested persons who may wish to comment on the application. Following the close of the public hearing, the decision-making body will take action to approve, conditionally approve or deny the request.
Appeals of any Planning Commission or Design Review Board decision can be made to the City Council by filing an appeal notice with the City Clerk within fourteen calendar days of the date of the decision. Any development that is appealable to the Coastal Commission must first be appealed to the City Council.
Step 6 – Notice of Final Action: Within seven days of the date of final action on a Coastal Development Permit, notice of the action (including findings and conditions) will be mailed to the applicant and representative, all interested persons and the Coastal Commission. Any appeal to the Coastal Commission must be made by a qualified appellant within fourteen calendar days from the date of Coastal Commission receipt of the notice of final action.
(FAQ9098)
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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)
- Permits are required when you are constructing, altering, moving, adding to, repairing or demolishing a structure on private property within the City of Laguna Beach. A building permit is required within or on the exterior of any structure. A permit is also required for patio covers, decks, garden and retaining walls, swimming pools, spas, air conditioners, sprinklers, water heaters, furnaces and gas lines. Work authorized by a permit must have City inspections during and at the completion of the work before the project can be considered complete.
(FAQ8760)
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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)
- If the property does not have an approved landscape plan and/or design
review conditions related to landscaping, then there are no restrictions
on the height of the vegetation or the type of vegetation that can be
planted. If trees impede a property owner's view, the property owner can
file a View Restoration Claim under LBMC Chapter 12.16. If hedges block
a property owner's view, sunlight or there is a safety concern, the
property owner can file a Hedge Height Claim under LBMC Chapter 12.14
for the City to determine if a valid obstruction exists and if so,
require specific remediation. Click HERE for more information on the City's website.
(FAQ11151)
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How do I report a Fire Hazard?- To report any fire hazards, please call our Administra... (more)
To report any fire hazards, please call our Administrative offices at (949) 497-0700.
(FAQ11310)
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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)
- Trailers, campers, boats and other mobile vehicles or equipment stored or parked in front yards and/or setback areas or on vacant property, except as expressly permitted pursuant to Title 25 of the Municipal Code, are considered a public nuisance and are not allowed. Please contact the Police Department regarding any vehicular violations.
(FAQ9124)
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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)
- The use of electrical or gasoline powered blowers, such as commonly used by gardeners and other persons for cleaning lawns, yards, driveways, gutters and other property is prohibited at all times within the city limits.
(FAQ9069)
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What building codes are enforced in Laguna Beach?- California Building Code 2019 edition; Laguna Beach Muni... (more)
- California Building Code 2019 edition; Laguna Beach Municipal Code.
(FAQ9213)
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Cool roofs, when are they required?- ... (more)
The California Energy Commission (CEC) has adopted new requirements for re-roofing projects (Title 24). Reroofs shall comply with cool roofs requirements when one of the following conditions exist: 1). more than 50% of the exterior surface of the roof is replaced; or 2). more than 1,000 sq ft of roof is replaced. If your roof’s slope is less than or equal to 2:12, then compliance is NOT required in climate zone 6 (entire City of Laguna Beach). White roofs are not allowed in Laguna Beach.
(FAQ9215)
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Do I need a Business License?- A business license is required for all businesses that are located or doing business within the City. ... (more)
- A business license is required for all businesses that are located or doing business within the City.
To apply online for a business license click HERE.
Additionally, applications can be obtained from the Cashier's desk at City Hall or by clicking HERE.
Business license questions may be answered between 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday by calling (949) 497-0317.
(FAQ8656)
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How long is my permit valid?- ... (more)
A building permit is valid for 180 days from the date of issuance. It may continue to be renewed every 180 days thereafter by obtaining a required City inspection, which will demonstrate progress is being made in completing the work. If work authorized under a permit is suspended for 180 days or more, the building permit will automatically lapse. A new building permit may be obtained by paying a renewal fee, provided not more than one year has lapsed since the last required inspection. If more than one year has lapsed since the last inspection, full fees will be required to reissue or renew the building permit.
(FAQ9207)
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How do I request service for a pothole/graffiti/tree maintenance/etc.?- To report a problem, ple... (more)
- To report a problem, please click HERE.
You can also call us at (949) 497-0711 Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m.
(FAQ10926)
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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)
- Most tenant improvements, ranging from simple improvements to more complex improvements, require a building permit. You may obtain additional information about building permits from the Building Counter, and/or by reviewing "frequently asked questions" regarding Building Permits. The Building Counter is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.. You may also contact Building Permit staff by telephone at (949) 497-0715.
(FAQ8659)
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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)
Any business serving food requires an Orange County health permit and inspection. Contact the Orange County Environmental Health Care Agency at (714) 667-3600 for related information. A liquor license and Conditional Use Permit is required if you intend to sell/serve alcoholic beverages. You will need to confirm that the proposed location has adequate parking that meets the Zoning Code.
(FAQ8661)
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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)
Light trespass that results in glare is prohibited. All outdoor lighting must be hooded, fully shielded, and aimed downward. Mercury vapor and low pressure sodium lighting are not permitted for street lighting and commercial applications. If you have a conflict with your neighbor regarding lighting, first contact your neighbor using the sample letter in the "Good Neighbor Lighting Ordinance" to mediate the problem amicably before filing a complaint with the City.
More information can be found on the City's website "Good Neighbor Lighting".
(FAQ9119)
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I received a ticket while parked in a metered spot. Who can I call for questions?- Parking meter ticket questions may be directed to (949) 497-0355.... (more)
- Parking meter ticket questions may be directed to (949) 497-0355.
(FAQ9595)
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What are the hours of operation at City Hall?- Monday through Thursday- 7:30am to 5:30pmEvery other Friday: 7:30am to 4:30pmClosed alternati... (more)
Monday through Thursday- 7:30am to 5:30pm Every other Friday: 7:30am to 4:30pm Closed alternating Fridays
Please click HERE for a calendar showing days when City Hall is closed.
(FAQ10946)
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How do I get a marriage license?- Through a Calif... (more)
Through a California County Clerk-Recorder's Office; here is the link to the Orange County Clerk Recorders Office. In California, City Clerks are authorized to perform civil marriage ceremonies throughout the State of California. In Laguna Beach, you must make an appointment in advance to be married by the City Clerk. Complete this form to schedule your ceremony to be performed at the Laguna Beach City Hall, officiated by the City Clerk's Office. For more information, click HERE.
(FAQ8951)
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When will I receive renewal information for my Shopper's Permit?- Renewal for shopper parking permits are mailed to permit holders in May of even numbered years, with stickers being mail... (more)
- Renewal for shopper parking permits are mailed to permit holders in May of even numbered years, with stickers being mailed in the latter part of July. Residents who do not receive a renewal notice by the end of May can call (949) 497-0314 with their name, Laguna Beach street address, and a daytime phone number to have application forms mailed to them.
(FAQ8745)
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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)
The operation of a business out of a garage is prohibited. Individuals are allowed to work in their garages for minor home remodeling projects or hobbies.
(FAQ9118)
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How do I report Graffiti?- To report any graffiti, please submit your request ... (more)
To report any graffiti, please submit your request HERE.
To report graffiti on public property you can call the Public Works Department at (949) 497-0711. To report graffiti on private property call the Code Enforcement main line at (949) 497-0301.
You will need an address of the location when reporting all graffiti.
(FAQ8950)
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Who do I call to report an act of illicit discharging into the storm drain system, a sewer spill,...- Call the City's Water Quality Dispatch at (949) 497-0378 during working hours, 8:00 AM -5:00 PM. Aft... (more)
Call the City's Water Quality Dispatch at (949) 497-0378 during working hours, 8:00 AM -5:00 PM. After 5:00 PM call the Laguna Beach Police Department at (949) 497-0701.
(FAQ8791)
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When is the Public Works Department open?- The Public Works Department is located at 479 Ocean Avenue in Laguna Beach. The office is open ... (more)
The Public Works Department is located at 479 Ocean Avenue in Laguna Beach. The office is open Monday - Thursday: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Alternate Fridays:
7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
(FAQ8789)
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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)
- Neighbors should try to mediate a solution. The City does not regulate the installation and use of window ACs. An AC compressor unit installed as part of an approved plan is regulated.
(FAQ9162)
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How do I report debris in the public right of way?- To report debris in the public right of way, please ... (more)
- To report debris in the public right of way, please click here to fill out a customer service request form, or you can call the Public Works Department directly at (949) 497-0711 during normal business hours.
If the debris can potentially cause an accident or is hazardous, please call Police Dispatch at (949) 497-0356.
(FAQ9614)
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How can I find out if work that is being done has a permit?-
... (more)
You may contact the Building Division at 949-497-0715 to find out if work being done is permitted.
(FAQ9214)
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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)
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The majority of site improvements require a building permit however there are certain minor improvements and repairs which may not. To ensure that your project is in compliance with City regulations, it is best to check with Community Development Department staff before beginning construction.
(FAQ9199)
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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)
- If the property does not have an approved landscape plan and/or design review conditions related to landscaping, then there are no restrictions on the height of the vegetation or the type of vegetation that can be planted. If trees impede a property owner's view, the property owner can file a View Restoration Claim under LBMC Chapter 12.16. If hedges block a property owner's view, sunlight or there is a safety concern, the property owner can file a Hedge Height Claim under LBMC Chapter 12.14 for the City to determine if a valid obstruction exists and if so, require specific remediation. Click HERE for the Municipal Code.
(FAQ9130)
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- For questions on our Weed
Abatemen... (more)
For questions on our Weed
Abatement/Goat Program, please contact Mr. Ray Lardie, Fire Prevention Officer
at (949) 497-0756 or rlardie@lagunabeachcity.net
(FAQ11316)
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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)
- Trees that are on the City's heritage tree list, trees that are part of a landscape plan approved through the design review process, and privately maintained trees in the public right of way all require a City permit prior to removal/ Refer to Municipal Code Chapter 12.06 for additional information related to the process.
(FAQ11759)
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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)
- Parcels with an approved landscape plan from Design Review will be
conditioned with the type and number of plants and may have maximum
allowable height limits established for the vegetation. Parcels with a
Hedge Height Claim ruling will have the hedge conditioned with a
specific height. Parcels without a Design Review approved landscape plan
or Hedge Height Claim ruling are not restricted to a height requirement
or the type of plant material on the parcel.
(FAQ11152)
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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)
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 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Saturdays. Not allowed on Sundays or Federal holidays.
(FAQ9113)
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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)
The City's Zoning Ordinance permits certain types of businesses in specific areas of the City. Planning staff will assist you at the Planning Counter in determining an appropriate location for your business. For example, some businesses (uses) in various zoning districts require a Conditional Use Permit. Information Guides that describe the various City land use review and approval processes, including the Conditional Use Permit process, are available at the Planning Counter or online. Planning staff is available at the Planning Counter Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. You may also contact a planner by telephone at (949) 497-0713, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Conditional Use Permit Info Guide
(FAQ8658)
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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)
- The cost per hour to park is posted at each parking lot. The price will vary depending upon the location of the lot. The hourly rate range is $1.00/hour to $3.00/hour.
(FAQ9599)
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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)
- No, trash receptacles must be stored out of public view. Areas for trash and outdoor storage shall be provided on each property. Such areas shall be designed to conceal all trash and stored material from public view.
(FAQ9121)
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What is the fee for a building permit?- Costs vary substantially from project to project. Please refer to the latest building permit ... (more)
- Costs vary substantially from project to project. Please refer to the latest building permit fee schedule.
(FAQ8648)
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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 ma... (more)
- Parcels with an approved landscape plan from Design Review will be conditioned with the type and number of plants and may have maximum allowable height limits established for the vegetation. Parcels with a Hedge Height Claim ruling will have the hedge conditioned with a specific height. Parcels without a Design Review approved landscape plan or Hedge Height Claim ruling are not restricted to a height requirement or the type of plant material on the parcel.
(FAQ9085)
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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)
- All parking meters indicate the hourly cost and the maximum time a vehicle may be parked at the meter.
(FAQ9593)
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How do I report an issue or problem at a beach, park or sports field?- The Public Works Department is responsible for maintaining the beaches, parks and sports fields within ... (more)
The Public Works Department is responsible for maintaining the beaches, parks and sports fields within the City limits.
To report a problem, please click HERE to submit a request. You can also call us at (949) 497-0711 during normal business hours.
(FAQ9645)
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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)
- This is a civil matter and there is no ordinance that regulates this type of encroachment. It is the City's goal that neighbors will work together on a resolution.
(FAQ11150)
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How do I contact the City Manager?- The City Manager can be contacted by clicking ... (more)
- The City Manager can be contacted by clicking HERE.
(FAQ10934)
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How do I apply for a building permit?- ... (more)
Building permit applications must be submitted on forms provided by the Department of Community Development, Building Division. An application for a building permit may be obtained at the Building Division counter or online (application).
(FAQ9208)
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How do I report a pothole or a street light outage/repairs?- To report a pothole please click ... (more)
To report a pothole please click HERE.
For street light outages or repairs contact Southern California Edison at (800) 611-1911 or https://www.sce.com. Most poles have a plaque on them that lists the pole number. This information will be helpful if you can obtain it before placing the call.
(FAQ8790)
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