Frequently Asked Questions

Code Enforcement FAQ

• Can I file an anonymous complaint?

  Yes, however, providing contact information will allow the inspector to obtain additional information necessary to fully investigate the complaint. Reporting party information is kept confidential under the Public Information Act, Government Code Section 6254(f).

• How long will it take for a Code Enforcement Inspector to respond to my complaint?

  Code Enforcement Staff respond and prioritize complaints based on issues dealing with the health and safety of the community. Those issues that pose an imminent threat are responded to within 24 hours or the next business day. For emergencies please contact 911 or the Burbank Fire Department 818-847-8611.

• How long will it take to resolve the violation?

  The Code Enforcement section strives for compliance within 15 to 60 days. However, time frames will vary on a case by case basis due to the violation type, owner response, legal due processes and other variables.

• What should I do if I believe my neighbor is building without the proper permits?

  Not all home improvement projects require building permits. For example, painting, flooring, and flat work do not require building permits. If you believe the scope of work requires a Building Permit, please contact the Building and Safety Division - Code Enforcement at (818) 238-5225 to report a concern.

• I believe my neighbors are advertising their house for rent on websites such as AirBNB and VRBO. Is this allowed?

  Short term rentals (less than 30 days) are not permitted in Burbank. If you would like to report a concern, please contact the Building and Safety Division – Code Enforcement at (818) 238-5225.

• Are home-based businesses allowed in the City of Burbank?

  Home-based office-type businesses are allowed in the City under certain conditions and require a Home Occupation permit prior to operation. When home-based commercial activities affect residential areas in a negative way, the activity may be prohibited. If you are considering operating a home-based business, please call the Building and Safety Division at (818) 238-5280 or visit the Business License webpage Establishing a Business for further details.

• How do I report graffiti?

  To report graffiti on public property, please call (818) 238-3806 or submit an email to [email protected]. The City cannot remove graffiti from vehicles, company signs, billboards, railroad property, telephone property, or back or side yards of private property (unless publicly visible and easily accessible within 5 to 10 feet of the property line). More information can be found on the City's Graffiti Removal page.

• Who should I call to report an abandoned shopping cart?

  You can call the Building and Safety Division - Code Enforcement at (818) 238-5225 to request the removal of abandoned shopping carts.

• Can I store a boat or RV in my driveway?

  Storing a boat or RV in the front yard area of your driveway is not permitted. The front yard is generally the first 25 feet between the public sidewalk or right-of-way and the front of your house. Please contact the Building and Safety Division- Code Enforcement at (818) 238-5225 for further information.

• My neighbor constantly parks his car in front of my house. Is this a violation?

  No. City streets are public streets and persons are allowed to park in an area designated for parking according to the limits posted on street signs. However, vehicles must be moved every 72 hours. If you would like to report a vehicle that has not moved in 72 hours, please contact the Burbank Police Department-Traffic Division at (818) 238-3100.

• My neighbor has a vehicle in his driveway that hasn't moved in years. I believe it may be inoperative. Is this allowed in the City of Burbank?

  Inoperative vehicles, those incapable of movement under their own power, are not allowed to be stored on the property unless they are kept in the garage or a completely enclosed space. Please contact the Building and Safety Division - Code Enforcement at (818) 238-5225 to report a concern.

• My neighbors never cut their lawn. Is this a violation?

  While the Code does not require lawns to be mowed at regular intervals, dead or overgrown vegetation is a violation. Please contact the Building and Safety Division - Code Enforcement at (818) 238-5225 to report a concern.

• My neighbor has trees that are hanging over into my yard, and the limbs are extending over my property. Is this a violation?

  No, that is a civil matter. The City will enforce trimming or removal if the tree is impeding the public right-of-way (i.e. sidewalk, street, parkway, median, or alley) or if any portion of the tree is blatantly causing a potential hazardous situation, such as a split trunk or hanging broken limb.

• There is a house on our street that has a green, unmaintained swimming pool. Does the City investigate these complaints?

  Yes. Please contact the Building and Safety Division - Code Enforcement at (818) 238-5225 to report a concern. Code Enforcement will also contact Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control to have their service come out and treat the water for mosquitoes.