If your neighbor built an illegal addition, a nearby property is overrun with weeds, or a house on your street has become a short-term rental, code enforcement is the city department that handles it. Redondo Beach's Code Enforcement unit is part of the Police Department, and it's responsible for making sure properties comply with the city's building, zoning, and quality-of-life regulations. Here's how the process works and what to expect.
What code enforcement covers
Code enforcement handles a wide range of violations, from unpermitted construction to overgrown vegetation. The most common complaints include construction without permits (garage conversions, additions, or remodels done without city approval), blight and property maintenance issues (broken windows, trash and debris, unmaintained structures), inoperable vehicles parked on the street or in driveways, sign and banner violations (unpermitted A-frames, banners, or flag signs), zoning violations like illegal business operations in residential areas, and overgrown vegetation blocking sidewalks, alleys, or street signs.
The city also enforces rules that might surprise you: motorized leaf blowers are prohibited in Redondo Beach, smoking in public places is banned, flavored tobacco product sales are illegal (a Tobacco Retail License is required to sell any tobacco), and polystyrene and single-use plastic regulations are enforced.
Short-term rentals are banned
One of the most frequently asked questions: Airbnb-style short-term rentals are not allowed in Redondo Beach. The city prohibits vacation rentals of fewer than 30 days. This applies to all residential properties, including ADUs. If you see a property being listed as a short-term rental, you can report it to code enforcement. The city actively investigates these complaints.
How to file a complaint
There are three ways to report a code violation in Redondo Beach, and all complaints are kept confidential. The easiest option is the Access Redondo app, a free mobile app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store (search “Access Redondo”). You can also use the web-based version at the Access Redondo portal on the city's website. The app lets you describe the issue, attach photos, and track the status of your report.
You can also call Code Enforcement directly at (310) 697-3665 during business hours, or email Code.Enforcement@Redondo.org. For issues that happen after hours — like noise complaints or safety hazards — call the Police non-emergency line at (310) 379-5411.
What happens after you report
The city's approach is education first — they try to achieve voluntary compliance before escalating to penalties. When a complaint is received, a code enforcement officer investigates the property. If a violation is confirmed, the officer contacts the responsible party (typically the property owner) to explain the issue and provide options and a timeframe to fix it.
For straightforward violations like overgrown vegetation or an unpermitted sign, a correction notice is issued with a deadline to come into compliance. Most violations are resolved at this stage — property owners fix the issue and the case is closed.
If the responsible party doesn't comply, enforcement escalates. The next steps can include citations (for violations like leaf blower use or operating without a business license), a formal report filed with the City Prosecutor for criminal prosecution or civil injunction, or an abatement order issued by a hearing officer after a formal hearing. For civil disputes between neighbors — like noise or property line disagreements — the city may refer both parties to a Dispute Resolution Program.
Your rights as a property owner
If you receive a code enforcement notice, you have rights built into the process. The enforcement process is progressive — it starts with education and a chance to voluntarily correct the issue before any penalties are imposed. You'll receive written notice describing the specific violation and a reasonable timeframe to fix it.
If you disagree with a violation finding, you can request an appeal hearing. An abatement order cannot be issued without due process, including an appeal hearing or order to show cause hearing. For complex situations involving permitting or zoning, the code enforcement officer can connect you with the Planning Division or Building & Safety to discuss how to bring your property into compliance.
Common scenarios
A few situations that come up frequently in Redondo Beach: Garage conversions done without permits are one of the most common violations. If you converted a garage into living space without proper approvals, contact Building & Safety to discuss your options — you may be able to retroactively permit the work or convert it into a legal ADU.
Parking on unapproved pads in the front yard setback area is another frequent issue. The code enforcement team works with parking enforcement on these cases. And illegal massage parlors and marijuana dispensaries — both prohibited in Redondo Beach — are subject to compliance checks and enforcement.
Key contacts
Code Enforcement: (310) 697-3665, Code.Enforcement@Redondo.org. Police non-emergency: (310) 379-5411. Access Redondo app: free on iOS and Android. Building & Safety: (310) 318-0636. Planning Division: (310) 318-0637. The Police Department, which houses the Code Enforcement unit, is located at 401 Diamond Street, Redondo Beach, CA 90277.