Palos Verdes Estates, CA
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We’re Here to Help
Residents can now submit non-emergency code enforcement concerns online through the City’s Citizen Request Portal.
Code Enforcement in Palos Verdes Estates
It is the mission of Code Enforcement to serve the community by working in partnership with residents, business owners, and visitors of Palos Verdes Estates to promote and maintain a safe and desirable environment.
Through fair and unbiased enforcement, the department helps preserve the community’s quality of life and uphold local standards.
The Palos Verdes Estates City Council has adopted Municipal Codes designed to address public nuisances, nonstandard construction and encroachments, and to support a clean, well-maintained community.
Online Citizen Request Portal
How It Works
Provide the address, details, and photos if available.
Staff review the request and route it to the appropriate department.
Residents can track request progress and status updates online.
Common Code Enforcement Request Types
Residents may submit non-emergency code enforcement concerns through the City’s online Citizen Request Portal, including:
Learn More About Code Enforcement
Use the sections below to learn more about the City’s code enforcement process, common violations, related resources, and frequently asked questions.
Code Enforcement Process
- A complaint or request for inspection is submitted to Code Enforcement.
- The Code Enforcement Officer conducts an inspection.
- If violation(s) are found, a Courtesy Notice of Violation may be issued, giving the responsible party time to comply.
- After the compliance date, another inspection is conducted to verify compliance.
If the violation still exists, next steps may include:
- An extension if significant progress is being made toward compliance
- A Second Notice of Violation
- Administrative Citation process
- Referral to the City Attorney’s Office for further action
Additional Examples of Code Enforcement Violations
The following list includes additional examples of municipal code violations commonly addressed by Code Enforcement in Palos Verdes Estates.
- Property maintenance
- Overgrown, dead, or dying vegetation
- Vegetation in the City right-of-way over 30 inches
- Encroachments in parklands or City right-of-way
- Prohibited discharge
- Substandard premises
- Public nuisances
- Inoperable vehicles
- Refuse placement
- Business license concerns
- POD/storage containers
- Home occupation concerns
- Unauthorized haulers
- Mechanical equipment noise in the R1 zone
- Short-term or vacation rentals in the R1 zone
- Recreational vehicle or vessel screening
What Does Not Fall Under Code Enforcement?
| Issue | Appropriate Contact |
|---|---|
| Barking dogs | Police Department (310) 378-4211 |
| Water waste | Cal Water (310) 257-1400 |
| Parking a moving van on the street | Public Works (310) 378-0383 |
| Vegetation on private property blocking views | Palos Verdes Homes Association (310) 373-6721 |
| Trees and vegetation on public property | Urban Forester (310) 378-0383 |
| Construction site complaints, including work outside allowable days/times or dust control | Building and Planning (310) 378-0383 |
| Air pollution, excessive odors, smoke, or dust | South Coast Air Quality Management District (800) 288-7664 |
| Insect problems, including mosquitos, bees, flies, or ticks | Vector Control (310) 915-7370 or (562) 944-9656 |
Real Estate Sign Requirements
Real estate signs must be placed a minimum of ten feet from the edge of the roadway or curb adjacent to private property.
All signs or postings affiliated with real estate sales are prohibited on public property, including City parklands, street medians, and parks. Commercial and non-profit advertising signs are also prohibited on public property.
To recover confiscated real estate signs, please contact Code Enforcement at (310) 378-0383.
Helpful Resources
Code Enforcement FAQs
Why can’t I leave my trash cans out?
The City’s municipal code requires refuse haulers to retrieve trash, recycling, and green waste containers directly from concealed trash enclosures. Trash containers must remain out of public view.
What is the City’s real estate sign policy on size and color?
The City of Palos Verdes Estates does not enforce size and color regulations for real estate signs. Please contact the Palos Verdes Homes Association at (310) 373-6721 for assistance.
Do I need a permit for a yard sale?
A permit is not required to conduct a yard sale. However, signs may only be placed on the property where the sale is occurring and must be at least ten feet from the roadway or curb. Signs are not allowed on public property or attached to telephone poles, trees, or existing signs.
My neighbor’s dog barks at all hours. What can I do?
Animal complaints, including barking dogs, are handled by the Palos Verdes Estates Police Department at (310) 378-4211.
How do I report a Code Enforcement concern?
Residents may submit non-emergency code enforcement concerns through the City’s online Citizen Request Portal. The portal allows users to submit requests online, upload photos, and track request status.
Submit a Code Enforcement Request
Is construction allowed on Sundays?
No. Permitted and approved construction activity is allowed Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Construction activity is not allowed on Sunday.
Not for Emergencies
This portal is not monitored in real time and should not be used for emergencies or urgent public safety hazards.
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-Emergency Dispatch: 310-378-4211