Frequently Asked Questions Frequently, Asked, Questions, FAQ, Most, Popular, Building, Permit, License, Earthquake, Department Answers to Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Rancho Palos Verdes, the City Council, and Various City Departments


A view from Del Cerro Park looking east over Portuguese Bend & the Pacific Ocean.
Photo by Ed Shea / PVNET.

City Hall Directory

 
MOST POPULAR FAQ'S

  1. Q.) How do I obtain a Building Permit?
    A.) Click here to go to the answer found in the Planning, Building and Code Enforcement department.

  2. Q.) How much does the license cost?
    A.)The cost of a business license tax varies. There are eight different business categories. You may call the Business License Coordinator at (310)-544-5391 or click here to review the tax fee schedule on the Business Tax Registration Application.

  3. Q.) How do I obtain a Film Permit?
    A.) Fill out a "Film Permit Application" and other related information.

  4. Q.) What do I do about my neighbor's trees that have grown and now block my view?
    A.) Read the "View Restoration Guidelines".

  5. Q.) What days of the week is garbage picked-up in front of my home?
    A.) View "Residential and Commercial Waste Removal Services" for more information.

  6. Q.) How do I obtain a dog license?
    A.) View the "Animal Control & Licensing" for more information.

  7. Q.) What can I do to prepare for an earthquake?
    A.) View the "Twelve Steps to Earthquake Survival" for more information.

  8. Q.) How do I contact the City Council?
    A.) View the City of Rancho Palos Verdes Directory.

  9. Q.) How do I report a pothole on a City street? A sidewalk needing repair? A drainage problem?
    A.) You can use the "Non Emergency Service Requests, Inquiries or Comments Form".

  10. Q.) What recreation classes are available through the City?
    A.) Click here to go to the answer found in the Recreation and Parks departments' FAQ's.

  11. Q.) How can I become a Docent?
    A.) Click here to learn more about the Los Serenos de Point Vicente Docents.

  12. Q.) Who do I contact regarding an abandoned vehicle?
    A.) Call the LA County Sheriff at 310-539-1661 to report an abandoned vehicle.


  13. How to be More Effective with Decision Makers

 
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS BY DEPARTMENT


 
CITY CLERK
  1. Q.) How do I obtain copies of public work documents (i.e. City Council Meeting agendas?
    A.) All public documents should be requested by contacting the city clerk at (310) 544-5208.
 
CITY MANAGER

Emergency Preparedness

 
MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED ANIMALCONTROL QUESTIONS

1.    What Agency provides animal control services? 

Los Angeles County Animal Care and Control.  Effective July 1, 1998, the City of Rancho Palos Verdes entered into a service contract with the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care &

Control (LACDACC) to provide complete animal care and control services for the City.   

These services include:

  • 24-hour live operator assistance
  • Investigation of cruelty complaints
  • Stray animal pick-up and patrol
  • Injured animal pick-up and care
  • Response to excessive barking and noise complaints
  • Investigation of dangerous dogs
  • Low cost vaccinations
  •  Low cost spaying and neutering
  • Pet licensing
  • Humane education
  • Dead animal pick-up 

2.  What is the number to call Animal Control?  310-523-9566. 

3.  What is the address for the County Animal Shelter and hours of operation? 

Los Angeles County
Animal Care Center
216 W. Victoria
Carson, California
310/523-9566 

Hours:
Monday-Thursday 12 Noon - 7:00 p.m.
Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Closed Sunday and Holidays

4.  How do I complain about a neighbor’s barking dog?

Animal Control has established procedures to address barking dog complaints.  The complainant needs to call Animal Control at 523-9566 and provide the dog owner’s street address and summary of the noise complaint.   The most efficient way to resolve the complaint is to advise the complainant to call Animal Control once every 7 days if the noise hasn’t subsided for 3 weeks.  The County takes specific action after the 1st week, 2nd week and 3rd week.

Based upon the first telephone call, Animal Control will send a letter to the dog owner stating the complaint for excessive noise and offer some suggestions to minimize the barking behavior.  The 2nd call (7 days after the original complaint call) will initiate a visit by the animal control officer to discuss the noise complaint with the dog owner.  Generally the officer will also try to inspect the dog and property (if permitted by the dog owner) to check if everything is in order.  After the 3rd call by the same complainant, animal control will mail a petition form for complainants to sign confirming their willingness to testify in court if necessary.  The petition must be signed by 3 separate residences and returned to Animal Control.   

After the petition is signed, Animal Control will forward the case file to the District Attorney’s Office for review.  Generally, a hearing will be scheduled to hear both sides of the issue and the hearing officer will settle the problem.  If the problem still persists, the District Attorney’s office will consider prosecuting the dog owner.  Throughout this process, there is ample opportunity for voluntary compliance by the dog owner.  

5.   How many pets are allowed per household? 

The City’s Municipal Code limits 3 dogs and 3 cats per residential lot/household in the City. 

6.  What is the City’s Leash Law? 

All dogs must be maintained on a leash no longer than 6 feet long when off the dog owner’s property. 

7.  Are dogs allowed on the City’s beaches and parks? 

Dogs are not allowed on the City’s beaches.  Dogs are permitted in the City parks, provided the dogs are on a leash. 

8.  Where can I get a License for my dog? 

Dog licenses are available at the County Animal Shelter/Care Center at 216 W. Victoria Avenue in Carson or by calling 562-940-8881 or by downloading the application on-line from the County’s website: http://animalcontrol.co.la.ca.us.  The City and County host an annual dog licensing and rabies clinic generally in the month of June at the Rancho Palos Verdes City Hall.   

9.  Dog License Fees. 

Dog license fees are $30 for an unaltered dog, $15 for a dog that has been spayed or neutered (a certificate of sterility from a veterinarian is required as proof).  

10.  What vaccinations are required by law? 

All dogs 4 months and older are required by law to be vaccinated for RABIES. 

11.  How long is a RABIES VACCINATION good for? 

Three years. 

12.  What should I do if I see an injured animal?  

Call the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care & Control immediately at 310-523-9566.  For your safety and to prevent further injury to the animal, do not attempt to move it.  

13.  What should I do if a dog bites me?   

Immediately after caring for the wound, contact the County Health Department

Rabies Control Section and the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care & Control to file an incident report. 

14.  Who do I contact about dead animals? 

Animal control will pick up any dead animals, provided a specific street address is given.  Encourage callers to call Animal Control directly at 523-9566.  If the animal is on the street, it is helpful to give the hundred block number, street name, direction of street (i.e. north-bound lane). 

Any dead animals on private property may be picked up at the expense of the property owner.  For any dead animals inside or under a private home, a private company in the telephone book must be contacted for assistance. 

15.  Can I trap raccoons in my yard? 

Residents may trap nearly any kind of animal (except any endangered species) on their own PRIVATE PROPERTY.  Neither the City nor Animal Control provides animal traps.  Residents may look in the phone book for animal feed stores or supply stores to rent a trap.  One popular feed store is Lomita Feed PH: 326-4738.  Animal control will pick up any trapped animal.  All trapped animals will be euthanized as required by law. 

16.  What should do if I see a wild animal on my property?  

If a wild animal comes onto your property, the best thing to do is to leave the animal alone.  Generally the animals will not return, unless there are attractive food sources on your property.  To prevent future visits, secure garbage can lids, pick up garden debris or fallen fruit, and take in uneaten pet food at night.  Unless the animal is behaving in a threatening manner or is injured, contact the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care & Control immediately at 310-523-9566.  Do not attempt to capture or approach the animal.  

17.  What should I do if I find a lost pet?  

If the dog or cat has a license or an ID tag, you can call the phone number listed on the tag to make contact with the owner. If you cannot contact the owner or if the animal is not wearing a tag, the law requires that you turn in the animal to the animal control agency that serves the area where you found the animal.  By doing so, you will increase the chances of the owner finding his/her lost pet. Many well-meaning people keep lost pets at their homes, not realizing the animal's owner is looking for the stray pet at the animal shelter.  

18.  When and how should I look for my lost pet?  

If your pet is wearing a current license of ID tag, the County Animal Care and Control Department will make every effort to notify you and reunite you with your pet.   You are encouraged to visit the Animal Shelter at 216 W. Victoria Avenue in Carson to look for your lost pet.  Animals picked up within the City’s jurisdiction will be taken to this shelter and cared for.  Be sure to check all areas of the shelter and ask about any injured animals that may have been taken to a veterinarian or that were picked up dead off the street.  Be sure to leave information about your lost pet on the shelter's lost/found bulletin board.  It’s always helpful if you bring a current photo, if you have one.  

19.  Where can I adopt a pet from the Animal Shelter?  

Los Angeles County
Animal Care Center
216 W. Victoria
Carson, California
310/523-9566 

Hours:
Monday-Thursday 12 Noon - 7:00 p.m.
Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Closed Sunday and Holidays     

 
FINANCE
  1. Q.) How do I acquire a business license from the City?
    A.) You may call the Business License Coordinator at (310)-377-0360, email your request to us at businesslicense@rpv.com or simply download the application by clicking here. Upon request the City can either fax or mail the necessary forms to you. Renewal applications are mailed in the middle of December to the address you last reported to the City. The completed application and the payment of the tax are due on January 1st. Penalties will be assessed for any application or payment of the tax after January 31st.

  2. Q.) How much does the license cost?
    A.) The cost of a business license tax varies. There are eight different business categories. For example: in 2001 a contractor pays $269.00 and a delivery truck company pays $53.00 for each truck. You may call the Business License Coordinator at (310)-377-0360 or click here to review the tax fee schedule on the Business Tax Registration Application.
  3. Q.) My business is in another city and I have a business license there. Why should I have a license in your city too?
    A.) In general law cities like Rancho Palos Verdes, the law requires that the business license tax must be based on revenue the business earns within that city's boundaries.
  4. Q.) Can I operate a business from my home?
    A.) Some businesses can be operated from the home, though a Home Occupation Permit must be obtained from the City, as well as a business license. Click here an application for the Business Located in the City and click here to view the Home Occupation Standards Form.
    You can also contact the Planning Department at (310) 544-5228 or the Business License Coordinator at (310) 544-5391 for any questions you may have.

  5. Q.) Do I need a resale permit for my business?
    A.) The State Board of Equalization issues resale permits for conducting business within the State of California. Their local office is at 680 W Knox Street Suite 200 in Torrance. Their phone number is (310)-516-4300.

  6. Q.) How much does it cost to issue a solicitation permit and how long will it be good for?
    A.) The cost of applying for a solicitation permit is $10. The solicitation authorization letter issued by the City is valid for thirty days.

  7. Q.) Do non-profit organizations need a solicitation permit?
    A.) Every solicitor, including nonprofit organizations, must carry a valid Letter of Authorization to conduct solicitation in our city.

  8. Q.) Can we solicit from door to door anywhere in Rancho Palos Verdes?
    A.) Solicitors must not solicit any residences that prominently display a "Do Not Disturb" or "No Solicitations" sign. "No Solicitation" stickers are available free of charge at the Reception Area at City Hall.

  9. Q.) Does literature to be distributed need to be provided to the City?
    A.) Yes, all information that will be distributed by the solicitor must be attached to the Application for Solicitation Permit.

  10. Q.) Can I get free computer training at City Hall?
    A.) The City does not provide computer training. However, the Palos Verdes on the Net Computer Technology Center, located adjacent to City Hall, does provide computer training. Contact them at (310)-541-7992 or email them at tedv@palosverdes.com or click here to view the website for Palos Verdes on the Net.

  11. Q.) Who do I talk to regarding a parking citation?
    A.) Contact the City Manager's Department at (310) 544-5205.


  12. Q.) I am interested in being added to your vendor list for RFP’s for computer equipment and services. How can I be added to this list?
    A.) You may send a letter or email requesting to be added to the City’s vendor list. Please describe the nature of services and equipment you wish to bid. Include any brochures or other additional information that may assist the City in understanding the nature of your business. Send the request to the attention of: IT Coordinator City of Rancho Palos Verdes 30940 Hawthorne Blvd. Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275-5391 or email to finance@rpv.com

 
PLANNING, BUILDING & CODE ENFORCEMENT
  1. Q.) Where are the offices of the Planning Department located?
    A.)Click here to view the Directory.

  2. Q.) What is the difference between a Planning Division permit or approval and a Building Division permit or approval?
    A.) Many types of improvements to property require BOTH Planning Division permits and Building Division permits. The Planning Division permits focus on what types of uses or improvements are appropriate for the subject property based on the City's strict development codes. The Planning review process must be completed prior to commencing the Building Division review process. The Building review process focuses on the safety of the structure to ensure that the requirements of the Uniform Building Code and other uniform codes such as Fire, Plumbing, and Electrical, are met. If you are planning improvements to your property, please contact the Department of Planning, Building and Code Enforcement at (310)-544-5228 for additional information about the permitting process.

  3. Q.) How do I obtain a Building Permit?
    A.) The process for obtaining a building permit will vary depending on the nature of the proposed improvement. Many improvements require Planning Division review and approval prior to commencing the Building Division Review process. The Building division review process includes: 1) plan check for consistency with the uniform construction codes, 2) corrections in accordance with plan check comments, 3) upon successful completion of plan check, building permits would be issued, 4) mandatory inspections must be completed, and 5) upon completion of all inspections, the permit will be "Finaled" signifying the completion of the project in accordance with the code requirements.

  4. Q.) If I am planning on making improvements to my existing home, where do I start?
    A.) Given the complexity of the City's Development code and the unique features of each property in the City, property owners considering improvements to their homes should contact the Department of Planning, Building and Code Enforcement and speak with a planner. The planner will need information regarding the planned improvements as well as information regarding the specific site in order to provide accurate and complete information. The Department's phone number is 310-544-5228.

  5. Q.) Does the City retain geological information about my particular property?
    A.) The city does keep geology records for properties, however the information available depends on the past proposals on a particular property. Some properties have undergone significant study and a lot of information may be available, whereas other properties may not have been studied at all. The public can come to the Planning Department during public service hours and ask to look at geology files for specific addresses or for the tract in which the property lies. It should be noted that the City does not have information on all lots and tracts in the City, and that geology files are kept strictly as a service to the public for reference purposes. Finally, the City does not provide interpretations of this information, as that is the responsibility of the property owner and their geo-technical consultant.

  6. Q.) Does the Department have building plans for my residence?
    A.) As a standard practice, building plans are not retained for single family residences in the City. However, the address files retained by the City often contain useful information regarding properties and structures built on those properties. The address files are available for public review during the Department's public service hours. However, the City did not receive the building plans for structures built under Los Angeles County s Inspection prior to the City s incorporation in 1973.

  7. Q.) Is my property located in a Flood Hazard area?
    A.) Due to its topographic nature, the area of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes was exempted from Flood Map Hazards. This action was initiated by the County of Los Angeles and accomplished some time before 1984. There is not Flood Hazard Map for the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. This applies to all addresses within the City of Rancho Palos Verdes.
 
PUBLIC WORKS
  1. Q.) How do I get rid of my old paint? Can I throw it in with my trash?
    A.) No. Paint, herbicides, pesticides and batteries are all household hazardous waste and should be disposed of properly. Take them to the nearest household hazardous waste round up. Roundups are free and are held on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in different cities each week. Call 1-888-CLEANLA for further information.

  2. Q.) When are my trash and recycling days?
    A.) Call your hauler for your trash and recycling days. Call Waste Management (servicing 95% of the City) at (310) 830-7100, Ivy Rubbish Disposal (servicing 5% of the City) at (310) 530-2899.

  3. Q.) What happens to my recycling items?
    A.) They are taken to a recycling processing center, sorted and sold to different companies in the US or overseas. Your green waste is taken to a green waste processing center and is either turned into mulch or is used as alternative daily cover. The City gets diversion credit for recycling.

  4. Q.) Why should I recycle?
    A.) Each City in California is mandated to reduce its solid waste by 50% by the year 2000. Any city that does not reach this goal may be fined up to $10,000 a day. Recycling, reusing and reducing waste helps save the environment and reduce the need to landfill. The City funds various programs from the monies received from the sale of the recyclables. Homeowner associations (HOA) may apply for the annual beautification grants (up to $2,500 per HOA) and participate in the Recycler of the month awards (two $250 awards per month).

  5. Q.) Who do I contact if my sidewalk needs repair?
    A.) Fill out a Non-Emergency Service Request form (available on the City’s web site) or call Public Works at 544-5252. Cracks are temporarily fixed with asphalt to avoid any trip and fall hazard and the City pays for these temporary repairs. If a permanent repair (removal and replacement of the broken concrete) is required, residents have an option of either hiring a licensed contractor, or can have the City fix it and bill the resident for the repairs.

  6. Q.) I’m remodeling my house and I need a large dumpster.
    Who do I call? Do I need a permit?
    A.) Yes, you need an encroachment permit issued from the Public Works Department. The permit fee is $50 and can be applied for by either the property owner or contractor. You or your contractor should also contact Public Works to obtain a list of the City’s authorized commercial haulers who can provide dumpsters and roll-off boxes for your remodeling/construction work.

  7. Q.) How can I get rid of an old water heater?
    A.) Any item that is in working condition or good shape can be picked up by charities such as Goodwill. Your trash hauler also provides up to three free bulky item (couch, TV, Bed, mattress, dishwasher, etc.) pickups per year. Call your trash hauler and arrange for a free pickup. Then leave items at the curb for pickup.

 
RECREATION AND PARKS
  1. Q.) What are the park hours?
    A.) City parks are open from dawn to dusk. City personnel are on site during specific hours at Abalone Cove Shoreline Park, Fred   Hesse Community Park, Ladera Linda Community Center, Point Vicente Interpretive Center and Robert E. Ryan Community Park.
  2. Q.) Are dogs allowed in the parks?
    A.) Yes,except for Abalone Cove Shoreline Park. They must, however, be on a leash and owners must clean up after their pets.

  3. Q.) How do I find out about programs for senior citizens?
    A.) Please call the Peninsula Seniors at 377-3003 or click here to go to the web site for the Peninsula Seniors at www.palosverdes.com/seniors.

  4. Q.) What recreation classes are available through the City?
    A.) Although the City does not conduct recreation classes, we do rent park facilities to instructors who offer privatized recreation classes. Information about recreation classes can be picked up at Hesse Park. Call 541-8114 or click here for more information.

  5. Q.) What are the phone numbers for Ernie Howlett Park and Highridge Park. Where are they?
    A.) These parks are located in the City of Rolling Hills Estates. Please call 377-1577 for more information.

  6. Q.) Is there a public pool on the Peninsula?
    A.) There is no year-round public pool. Swimming and lessons are offered during the summer at several locations on the Palos Verdes Peninsula.

  7. Q.) Where can I swim or take lessons locally in the summer?
    A.) Locations and phone numbers of some summer swim programs are listed below:

    o Marymount College operates the Miraleste Intermediate School pool; call 541-3664

    o Rolling Hills Estates operates the Peninsula High School pool; call 377-1577

    o The San Pedro & Peninsula YMCA has an indoor pool; call 832-4211

    o Los Angeles County offers a Junior Lifeguard Program; call 939-7214

  1. Q.) How can I sign up my children for sports, i.e., soccer, basketball, etc?
    A.) To review the City’s schedule of privatized recreational classes, click here. Another excellent source for youth sports information is in the local Palos Verdes Peninsula Directory published by the Palos Verdes Hills Nursery School. The blue pages in the front highlight many local organizations that provide sports activities. To order a copy of this Directory, call 375-1566. Also, the Peninsula News generally provides information about special sign-up dates.You may want to log on to pvsports.com for children's sports opportunities on the Palos Verdes Peninsula.

  2. Q.) Does the City rent rooms for parties, meetings, etc.?
    A.) Yes, rooms are currently available at
    o Hesse Park, 310-541-8114
    o Ryan Park, 310-377-2290
    o Ladera Linda Community Center, 310-541-7073
    o Point Vicente Interpretive Center, 310-377-5370
    Click here for more information about Facility Rental.

    3.  

  3. 3. Q.) May I get married on the bluffs overlooking the ocean?
    A.) The following locations provide the opportunity to conduct outdoor weddings:
    o Wayfarers Chapel, 310-377-1650
    o The Catalina Room at Long Point, 310-544-8884
    o La Venta Inn in Palos Verdes Estates, 310-373-0123
    o Point Vicente Interpretive Center, 310-377-5370 (this is the only City site where outdoor weddings are allowed)

  4. 4. Q.) I am getting married at Wayfarers Chapel. Does the City have a room where I can hold my reception?
    A.) For indoor receptions up to 150 guests, call Hesse Park at 310- 541-8114; Ladera Linda Community Center at 310- 541-707, or Point Vicente Interpretive Center at 310-377-5370.

  5. Q.) Are guided hikes available on the Palos Verdes Peninsula?
    A.) The City’s volunteer docent organization, Los Serenos de Point Vicente, conducts hikes in the hills around Ladera Linda Community Center, Ocean Trails, and at Abalone Cove Beach. For information or to schedule a docent-led tour, please call 377-0360 ext. 264. Another excellent source for hikes and trail information is the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy; call 541-7613 or click here at www.pvplc.org to go to their web site.


  6. Q.) Can I reserve picnic and barbecue areas at a park?
    A.) All of the City's park sites are available to the public on a first-come, first-serve basis.


  7. . Q.) May I reserve a baseball field, soccer field, etc.?
    A.) Organized local youth groups may reserve the fields for scheduled use. General usage is on a first-come, first-serve basis.


  8. Q.) I am planning a birthday party for my child. May I bring in a "moon bounce", etc.?
    A.) Due to safety, liability and neighborhood noise concerns, no commercial rides, moon bounces, games, canopies, amplified music, ponies, etc. are allowed on the City park sites.

  10. Q.) When is whale season and what is the best time of day to see a whale?
    A.) The Pacific gray whale migration period is typically from December to April. Although whales do not appear on a regular schedule, it is usually easier to spot them in the morning when the water is calmer.

  11. Q.) Where can I go to watch the whales?
    A.) The Pacific Gray whale’s annual migration season from the frigid waters of the Arctic seas to the warm lagoons of Baja California is from December through the end of April. The Interpretive Center is a premier whale watch site.  It is open to the public daily from 10 am to 5pm, and the park grounds are open until dusk. Another ideal location is Fisherman’s Access, between the Point Vicente Lighthouse and Long Point (formerly Marineland; now called Terranea Resort). Commercial whale watch boats offer an up-close look at whales: for Redondo Sports Fishing located in Redondo Beach, call 310-372-2111 or for 22nd Street Landing in San Pedro, call 310-832-8304. Also, visit the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium in San Pedro to learn more about the whales, or call them at 310-548-7562.


  12. Q.) How can I arrange for a tour of the Lighthouse?
    A.) The United States Coast Guard operates the Point Vicente Lighthouse. The Coast Guard Auxiliary conducts regularly scheduled tours on the second Saturday of each month, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Call 541-0334 for more information.


  

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