Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are some common code enforcement violations?

A: Some common code violations include property maintenance issues such as: Overgrown or unmaintained front lawn, abandoned vehicles on private property, construction without building permits, unsafe housing conditions, trash, debris or bulky items stored in public view, general public nuisances, yard parking, unpermitted garage conversions, and zoning violations.

Q: How do I report an issue or violation?

A: To report an issue or violation, please submit your request online by clicking here

You can also contact us at 626-939-8426. If you reach the voicemail, please leave a detailed message with your name, contact information, issue you are reporting and location of the issue, so we can process your request in a timely manner. City Hall hours of operation are Monday through Thursday, 7:30 am to 5:30 pm. For all after hours issues or complaints, you may submit a request online or leave a voicemail, and we will return your call as soon as possible.

If there is an emergency during this time that needs immediate attention, please dial 911.

Q: Do I need a license or permit for garage sales?

A: No. A license or permit will not be required for garage sales. However, please see the following restrictions below:

1. No more than three (3) garage sales shall be conducted in any one calendar year by any one individual, household, group, family or organization.

2. Any such permitted sale shall be held between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. and for not more than two (2) consecutive days. If a holiday is concurrent with a weekend, the sale days may include the two (2) day weekend and the holiday.

3. No sign advertising the event or items for sale may be placed in or on public right-of-way. It shall be the responsibility of the persons named in WCMC Section 14-101 to remove all on-site sale related signs and merchandise on a daily basis and at the conclusion of the event.

Q: What are the hours for construction?

A: Construction work is allowed in West Covina between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Any construction activity that creates noise above normal ambient levels outside of these hours is prohibited unless a special permit is approved.

Q: Who do I contact for a deceased, sick or noisy animal?

A: Contact Los Angeles County Animal Care & Control at (562) 940-6898 or visit https://animalcare.lacounty.gov/contact-us/

Q: What type of construction work requires a building permit?

A: 

Structural work:

  • Building a new structure (home, garage, addition, ADU, shed over 120 sq. ft., etc.)

  • Room additions or converting spaces (garage conversions, attic conversions, etc.)

  • Removing, adding, or altering walls (especially load-bearing walls)

  • Re-roofing (beyond minor repair), new roofing materials

Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing installations:

  • Installing or relocating electrical wiring, panels, subpanels, outlets, EV chargers

  • Installing or relocating HVAC systems (furnace, A/C units, ducts)

  • Kitchen, bathroom and interior remodeling.

  • Water heaters (tank or tankless)

  • Installing or relocating plumbing lines (water, gas, or sewer)

Windows, doors, and openings:

  • Changing window or door sizes

  • Adding new openings

  • Installing egress windows

Site and exterior structures:

  • Fences over 6 feet

  • Retaining walls over 4 feet (or supporting a slope)

  • Decks/patios over 30 inches high

  • Patio covers (attached or detached)

  • Carports or any roofed structure

  • Pools, spas, or major pool repairs

Life-safety related:

  • Fire sprinklers

  • Fire alarms (in some cases)

  • Accessibility modifications (ramps, guardrails, etc.)

Q: What type of work does not require a building permit?

A: 

Cosmetic / minor non-structural work:

  • Painting (interior or exterior)

  • Flooring (tile, carpet, laminate, vinyl)

  • Cabinets and countertops

  • Minor drywall patching

Outdoor minor work:

  • Fences less than 6 feet

  • Sheds 120 sq. ft. or smaller (no electrical/plumbing)

  • Minor landscaping or irrigation