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1. Local Utility Companies Serving Monterey Park

Cable TV, Internet, and Phone Service

Spectrum (formerly Charter Communications) (866) 499-8080 https://www.spectrum.net/
AT & T (800) 310-2355 https://www.att.com/ 

Electric                                                                        

Southern California Edison (SCE)    (800) 684-8123     https://www.sce.com/ 

Gas                                                              

Southern California Gas Company     (800)427-2200    https://www.socalgas.com/

Telephone                                                                  

AT & T     (800) 310-2355    https://www.att.com/ 

Trash Services                                                                          

Athen’s Trash Services (Residential and Commercial)     (626) 336-6100  https://athensservices.com
Ware Disposal (Commercial only)     (877)714-9273     https://www.waredisposal.com/

Water                                                                         

Monterey Park Water Utility      (626) 307-1342     Monterey Park Utility
San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District     (626)448-6183     http://sgvmwd.org/ 
California Water Service     (323) 722-8601    https://www.calwater.com/

2. Can I remain anonymous when I a report a violation to the City?

Yes, Citizens who report alleged violations to the City have the option to remain anonymous.  For confidentiality purposes, information of those who file a report or complaint is for internal use only.

3. How do I report graffiti?

To report graffiti on public property (sidewalks, curbs, street signs, equipment in the parks, utility poles, alleys, utility poles, etc.) or private property (residential and commercial property), call the Graffiti Removal Hotline at (626) 307-1449, send an e-mail to: graffiti@montereypark.ca.gov. or submit a request online via the GoMPK App.  

To report the occurrence of an individual making graffiti, please call the Monterey Park Police Department immediately with a location and description of the individual at (626) 573-1311.

4. How can I dispose of bulky items and/or furniture left on the sidewalk or curb?

Thank you for participating in keeping the City clean.  Athens Trash Services provides a FREE service to the residents of Monterey Park and will pick up and dispose of bulky item, such as appliances, furniture, etc. Anyone can contact them to schedule a pick-up at (888)336-6100.  You may also submit a request online via the GoMPK App.  

5. How do I report overgrown vegetation and/or weeds?

Property owners are required to maintain the landscaping on their commercial and residential properties.  Landscaping should follow Planning Division’s approved guidelines.  Overgrown, dead, decayed, diseased or hazardous tree, weeds, vegetation, or debris are to be reported to the Code Enforcement Division at (626) 307-1415, or submit a request online via the GoMPK App.   This includes but is no limited to any condition of vegetation overgrowth which encroaches into, over, or upon any public right-of-way including, streets, alleys, parkways and sidewalks, so as to constitute either a danger to the public safety or property or any impediment to public travel.  

6. How to report trash, junk, overgrown weeds and debris on properties along the freeway?

Some properties that are located along the freeway, belong to and are maintained by the California Department of Transportation (Cal Trans).  To submit a customer service request to their Division of Maintenance, please visit online at https://csr.dot.ca.gov  If you need further assistance please coll (213) 897-3656.

7. How do I report trees growing near power lines?

You may report issues with trees or vegetation growing near or touching power lines to Southern California Edison at 800-655-4555 or at sce.com.

8. Where can I park recreational vehicles, boats and trailers in a residential area?

Parking Recreational Vehicle Parking, Boat and Boat Trailer is permitted in the R-1 Zone property, subject to the following limitations:

    (A)   Parked in an enclosed garage; or in the side yard, rear yard or driveway. If parked on the driveway, the vehicle or item must remain out of the front yard setback and be placed so as not to obstruct the operation of the garage door for access of at least one vehicle to be parked in the garage.

    (B)   Parked on a hard-surfaced area such as asphalt or concrete.

    (C)   On the lot, parked perpendicular to the street.

    (D)   Cannot extend over the public sidewalk or any lawn or landscaped area.

    (E)   Cannot be used for temporary or permanent housing purposes longer than twenty-four (24) hours.

    (F)    Cannot be connected to sewer lines, water lines or electricity except temporarily for charging batteries and other temporary hook-up facilities not lasting more than twenty-four (24) hours; and provided, that all such connections must comply with applicable State law and the electrical code.

    (G)   Cannot be used for storage of food, materials or equipment other than those items considered to be a part of the unit for its use. (Ord. 2097 § 3, 2013)

9. Where can residents place their trash bins?

Garbage can, solid waste container, solid waste, junk, bulky items,  placed or maintained so as to be visible from neighboring properties or the public right-of-way, except for those times scheduled for collection, in accordance with this code;

Trash enclosures must be maintained in a closed manner at all times to prohibit visibility of trash container from public rights-of-way or adjacent property.

6.08.060 Containers for residential collection.

    (a)    To protect public health, safety, and well-being against the growth and spread of vectors, it is the duty of every person in possession, charge, or control of any residential property within the city, in or from which refuse accumulates or is produced, to keep in a suitable place and utilize the containers provided by the servicer. No other containers shall be used;

    (b)    If the capacity of the containers provided by the servicer is insufficient for the quantity of all refuse, recyclables and/or yard waste generated at the premises between pickups, then the residential service customer shall subscribe to such additional service as determined and required by the servicer to protect the public health, safety, and well-being against the growth and spread of vectors from such refuse, recyclables and/or yard waste;

    (c)    All refuse and recyclables to be collected shall be placed in the containers provided by servicer, as follows:

    (1)    Curbside Service;

    (A)   Refuse and recyclables (not including yard waste) shall be placed in the black container(s);

    (B)   Yard waste shall be placed in the green container(s);

    (C)   No such container may be placed for pickup if its contents exceed three hundred pounds;

    (2)    Bin Service. The occupant shall place refuse and recyclables in the bin(s) provided by the servicer;

    (3)    Construction and demolition debris. Except for disposal by a self hauler pursuant to Section 6.08.280, construction and demolition debris shall be placed in the debris box(es) provided by the servicer and/or the black container(s) for refuse and recyclables provided by the servicer (the black containers are subject to the three hundred pound weight limit);

    (d)    To minimize interference with the public rights-of-way, no person shall place a container or bulky item on a parkway for collection service earlier than twenty-four hours prior to the normal collection date as specified by the director of public works. To minimize interference with public rights-of-way, any containers not collected from or any bulky items not removed shall be removed from the public right-of-way location by midnight of the scheduled day of collection;

    (e)    Unless otherwise directed by the servicer, containers shall be placed for collection on the street with the wheels of each against the curb and at least one foot distance between each container. In instances where no curb exists, containers shall be placed as close to the edge of the street as practicable with the wheels toward the lot. For alley collection, containers shall be placed on the lot as close to the right-of-way line of the alley as practicable. No occupant shall move any bin or debris box placed by the servicer. (Ord. 2003 § 1, 2002)

10. Can you park vehicles on the lawn at a residential property?

No. The City does not allow vehicles to be parked on the lawn or unpaved surfaces, in a residential area, 

Vehicles may be parked in the driveway and public street as per City parking regulations and restrictions.  

11. Can you operate a business in your home?

Yes it is allowed, with approval from the City for a Home Occupation Permit.  

Home occupations are permitted in the R-1, R-2, and R-3 Zones subject to obtaining a Home Occupation permit from the Planning Division.

Permitted Home Occupations. The following businesses are permitted with a valid Home Occupation permit:

(a) Office use;

(b) Mail ordering;

(c) Home crafts such as model making, basket weaving.

Home Occupations Prohibited. Permitted home occupations may not in any event be deemed to include the following:

(a) Auto repair;

(b) Barber shop or beauty salon;

(c) Carpentry work;

(d) Dance instructions;

(e) Funeral chapel or funeral home;

(f) Gift shop;

(g) Medical or dental offices, labs, clinics, or hospitals;

(h) Auto, boat and trailer painting;

(i) Photo studio;

(j) Private schools;

(k) Renting of equipment and/or trailers;

(l) Appliance repairs;

(m) Eating establishment;

(n) Kennel;

(o) Tailors, dressmakers, upholstery;

(p) Service uses, personal and professional;

(q) Such other uses that may generate excessive pedestrian or vehicle traffic and that may be obnoxious or a nuisance to adjacent residents such as noise, odor, or appearance as determined by the City Planner, or that violate the use limitations provided in subsection (5) of this section.

12. What are the hours allowed for construction?

The City’s allows construction, demolition work and operation of mechanically powered saw, sander, drill, grinder, lawn or garden tool or similar tool between the hours of  7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. on weekdays and the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.

Construction noise made outside of the City allowed construction times can be reported to the Monterey Park Police Department (626) 573-1311,

13. How to I report issues with mold?

Contact the L.A. County Department of Public Health http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/eh/community/mold.htm 

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1. Whom do I call to request an inspection?

Inspection requests shall be made 72 hours prior by calling 626-307-1308 during regular business hours. All systems that require a functional test must be pre-tested prior to the inspection appointment date.

Note: You must speak directly with an inspector to schedule an appointment. The inspectors will attempt to accommodate your schedule, but you should expect to allow a 72 hour lead time for your request.

2. What information do I give when I call to request an inspection?

You will need to provide your name, name of your company, your phone number, the inspection address, the State of California Certification Number of the installer / tester who will be present during the test, proof of workman’s compensation insurance, the pocket license must be presented at time of plan submittal, the Monterey Park Fire Department Plan Review Number, the type of inspection, and the number of devices to be tested.

If the person submitting the plans is not the holder of the pocket license, a letter from the holder of the pocket license must be submitted with the name of the person submitting the plans and the permission to submit plans.

3. What does a construction inspection cost?

There is no fee for construction inspections. However, if you call for an inspection and have not pre-tested the systems for the required functional tests or are not at the site and/or fail to cancel 24 hours prior to the inspection date you will be charged a $100 non-compliance fee.

4. How soon after I call can I expect my inspection?

Usually within two or three days or upon availability of inspectors.

5. Must I be present when the inspector comes and do I need approved plans on site?

A representative capable of performing the required tests, capable of providing access to inspection areas, and certified by the State of California must be present. This person must have a copy of the approved plans and a copy of the plan review letter.

6. If I need to talk to my inspector, when can he/she be reached?

Inspectors office hours are 7 - 8 a.m. and 4 - 5 p.m. Inspectors are out in the field from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

You may call during business hours to schedule an appointment, Monday through Friday or leave a message for Inspectors, at 626-307-1308. Inspectors will return calls when in the office.

7. What do I do if I have a code related question during the day when an inspector is not available?

The fire marshal is available during normal business hours to answer specific questions related to the California Fire Code and may be contacted at 626-307-1308.

Note: It is acceptable to call the fire marshal with fire code-related questions or field inspection problems.

8. What will happen if my system fails to pass inspection?

All systems must be pre-tested to prove they work correctly before inspectors perform their inspection. If a system fails to pass the original inspection, a fee will be invoiced for all subsequent re-inspections. Invoiced fees reflect actual time required for the inspection, to include office and travel time for inspectors (two hours minimum).

9. What do I do if I do not understand the required corrections?

You may contact your assigned inspector directly or at 626-307-1308 for any explanation or clarification, which may be necessary.

10. When can I occupy or use my structure?

Occupancy and use of the structure is permitted only after approval by the Building Department. You are in violation if you occupy the premises prior to obtaining this approval. The Fire Department considers occupancy to occur when non-construction employees or people begin working in or using the structure. Occupancy also occurs when non-permanent mounted stock or furnishings are moved into the building.

11. If I contract with a builder for the construction, who is responsible to call for inspections and final occupancy approval?

It shall be the responsibility of the person doing the work authorized by a permit to notify the Fire Prevention Division that such work is ready for inspection. The legal owner is responsible to verify inspections and approvals. If you want your builder to assume this responsibility, this should be specified within your contract, but you should check your permit and make sure final approval to occupy has been given prior to moving into the building. Normally, the installing company schedules the inspection appointment for their installation.

12. When can I request approval to occupy my building?

When the fire protection systems are approved and inspected and the exit ways are completed.

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1. What is a drone or UAS?

UAS is an Unmanned Aerial System and is commonly called a drone. A drone is an aerial device with an onboard computer that is operated remotely – generally by a pilot on the ground – using a handheld controller. Small drones are battery operated, weigh less than 55 pounds, have several rotors like a helicopter, and are equipped with a video camera.

2. Where is the video and photos taken by the UAS stored?

All video and photo evidence taken during any UAS mission is stored in the same manner and location as Body Worn Camera (BWC) video and other investigative evidence. MPPD utilizes a private “cloud” service, to store all digital evidence. The service is authorized and certified under both state and federal regulations for the security and protection of confidential information and is available only for official law enforcement purposes. Evidence is stored and saved for a limited time, unless it is categorized as evidence in an actual crime or formal investigation. Then it is stored for a period of time consistent with all other evidence related to that incident/investigation.

3. Who has access to the video and photos?

Video and photos collected by UAS are stored for the purposes of conducting police investigation and subsequent prosecutions. Accordingly, videos and photos are generally accessible to police investigators for official use only. Like all police records, video and photos may also be subject to additional release under the same rules and restrictions as BWC video and other items of evidence. Generally, UAS photos and video are considered part of the investigative record and are not available to the public under the California Public Records Act (CPRA) or Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

4. How is my privacy protected?

The intent of the UAS Program is to enhance MPPD’s response to emergency calls for service. As such, drones are used during an active response to an emergency or other call for police assistance. MPPD policy prohibits drone operators from intentionally recording or transmitting images of any location where a person would have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as inside private buildings, except where authorized by a warrant issued by a judge or in emergency situations.

5. Can foreign countries gain access to MPPD’s drone data or information through a drone’s built-in software?

No. Our drone data does not utilize the onboard software from the drone manufacturer. From the outset of our program, we have used an encrypted, US-based software program to bypass the drone manufacturer’s systems. Our data is encrypted and is stored on US-based servers that meet federal requirements for confidential law enforcement databases.

6. What training do UAS pilots undergo?

In addition to the training and study required to maintain a FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot License, all MPPD UAS Team members train regularly in a variety of locations and settings to ensure operational efficiency. All training is documented, and the records are maintained by MPPD and are subject to review by the FAA.

7. What rules and regulations must MPPD’s UAS pilots follow?

All MPPD UAS pilots are subject to FAA regulations related to airspace use, and all must have a valid “Part 107” Remote Pilot License. UAS pilots are also subject to the MPPD Policy on UAS Operations.

8. Why does MPPD use UAS rather than helicopters?

Helicopters and other manned aircraft (air support) are very expensive to operate. Currently, MPPD relies on the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department for air support. UAS can be used in a variety of ways that supplement mutual aid air support requests in a cost-effective and efficient manner, like the UAS aerial intelligence-led emergency response.

9. When does the Monterey Park Police Department use UAS (drones)?

MPPD uses UAS in a variety of circumstances, such as documenting crime and accident scenes, searching for missing or wanted persons, fires, and evaluating damage after a major incident or natural disaster. These can happen anywhere in the city and the MPPD UAS Team will respond to those on an as-needed basis. The Monterey Park Police Department UAS Team intends to use UAS in innovative ways to serve the community. The UAS may be deployed to fly towards the scene of such incidents as a crime in progress, serious accident, officer in need of assistance, or any other incident where having advanced knowledge of what is happening at the scene before police and fire first responders arrive may add to safety and efficiency. 

10. For more FAQs related to UAS, please visit the Federal Aviation Administration’s FAQ page.

Federal Aviation Administration’s FAQ page.

11. Useful Links:

MPPD Drone Policy

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1. When are elections held in the City of Monterey Park?

Elections are held the first Tuesday after the first Monday of March in even-numbered years.

2. What do I need to do to become a candidate for the next city election? When can I obtain the required forms?

To become a candidate in the next city election, you must first be a registered voter and reside in the district you are running for at the time nomination forms are issued to you. All required forms and guidelines to run for office in the general municipal election will be available in the City Clerk's office starting in November.

3. Where do I get the required forms to start a campaign committee? What forms do I need?

You may obtain the required forms in the City Clerk's office, located at 320 West Newmark Avenue, or you may download the forms available through the Secretary of State website.

The forms required include:

• Form 501: Candidate Intention Form - To start the candidate process.
  When to file: File before you solicit or receive any contributions or before you make expenditures from personal funds on behalf of your candidacy.
  Where to file: Original filed with the City Clerk's office.
• Form 410: Campaign Committee Form - If raising or spending $2,000* or more.
  When to file: File within 10 days of receiving $1,000 in contributions. The date this form is postmarked is the date it is considered filed.
  Where to file: Original filed with Secretary of State. Copy given to City Clerk's Office.

*The personal funds of a candidate or officeholder used in connection with seeking or holding elective office are contributions and are counted toward qualifying as a recipient committee. However, personal funds used to pay a candidate filing fee or a fee for the statement of qualifications to appear in the ballot pamphlet are not counted toward the $2,000 threshold.

4. Does the City of Monterey Park have campaign contribution limits?

The City of Monterey Park follows the guidelines for campaign contributions as set forth in the State of California Elections Code.

5. Where do I get election results? How long does it take to count the ballots?

At 8 p.m. on Election Day, the polls close. The Los Angeles County Registrar Recorder's Office (RRCC) is the Central Counting Place (location where ballots are counted).  All semi-final results will be released and available from RRCC headquarters located at 12400 Imperial Highway, Norwalk, CA 90650.  Semi-final results will also be continuously updated and displayed on the County's website at www.lavote.net throughout Election Night and during the Official Canvass.  

The county elections official shall prepare a certified statement of the results of the election and submit it to the City within 30 days of the election. 

6. How do I become a registered voter in Monterey Park?

Any person who is 18 years of age or older and a citizen of the U.S. can register to vote by filling out a voter registration form. It is required that you file a new form each time you move or have a name change. You must be registered to vote at least 15 days prior to the election in which you intend to vote. Check the L.A. County Registrar of Voters website for further information. Registration forms are available at the following locations:

City of Monterey Park
City Clerk's Office
320 W. Newmark Ave.
Monterey Park, CA 91754

Monterey Park Post Office
245 W.Garvey Ave.
Monterey Park, CA 91754

7. On Election Day, how and where do I vote?

Before each election, the city clerk sends every registered voter a voter information guide sample ballot that lists the candidates and tells the voters where to find his / her polling place. On Election Day,  you need to go to the polling place indicated on the pamphlet. Election workers at the polls will check the roster for your name, and will also show you how to use the voting equipment, if necessary. If you lost your sample ballot or are not sure where your polling place is, you can log onto the L.A. County Registrar Recorder's website and find your polling place or print out a sample ballot online.

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1. How do I get a copy of a Fire Report?

Submit a Public Records Request to the City Clerk's Office for receipt and processing to the Fire Department. Report copies are $8.00. Reports will be provided to the property owner or legally authorized individuals only.

2. How do I request a Fire Station Tour?

Please visit our Public Education and Community Outreach page or call (626) 307-1262.

3. How do I become a member of the Paramedic Subscription Program?

You may request an application to be mailed to you by calling (626) 307-1423 or visit the Emergency Medical Services Website Page and select either Residential Application or Business Application.

4. Will I be transported to the hospital of my choice?

Paramedics are required to take emergency patients to the closest receiving emergency room. Many times emergency rooms are full. The paramedics will call the hospital from the scene and find which hospital emergency is accepting patients. Trauma patients will be taken to a trauma center and children will be taken to a hospital which specializes in child care.

5. I have great health, do I need to fill out the medical history form?

Probably not. If you have a medical condition and are seeing a doctor on a regular basis or are currently taking a prescribed medication you should complete this form and place in an enveloped marked "Attention Paramedics" and kept in a visible place such as the outside of your refrigerator.

6. How do I get a copy of an Emergency Medical Service Report

Submit a Public Records Request to the City Clerk's Office for receipt and processing to the Fire Department. Report copies are $8.00. EMS reports may only be obtained by the patient or legally authorized individuals (please see the Federal HIPAA Privacy Rule)

7. How can the Patient Medical Form help me during an emergency?

To speed patient care the paramedics need to know your current medical history, if you have any allergies to medications, and what medications you are currently taking. The faster they get this information the faster you will be treated. If they arrive and you are unconscious they can quickly get this information from the envelope you placed on your refrigerator door.

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1. How can I volunteer for the library?

Volunteers help schoolchildren with homework, read stories, assist with donations and operate the Friends of the Library Bookstore, shelve books, assist students in computer classes, tutor those who need help with speaking, reading or writing English, mend and process books, help with office tasks and assist with library special events.

Anyone who is interested in volunteering must complete a volunteer application . These can also be picked up from any of the library’s information desks. Please call the Administration Office at (626) 307-1269 for more information.

2. How can I support the library?

You can support the library by volunteering, donating money or books or by joining the Friends of the Monterey Park Library.

The Friends of the Library assists with the semi-annual book sale, runs the Bookstore, raises funds for programs, presents library programs, etc. Please ask at the Reference Desk for an application. Dues are $5 for a single person, $10 for a family, $3 for Seniors, $25 for Patron status, $50 for Sustaining and $100 for Benefactor. The Friends is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization.

3. How can I make a donation to the library?

The Monterey Park Library Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization that raises funds to supplement the library's budget. Tax-deductible gifts made out to the Monterey Park Library Foundation should be mailed to the library at 318 South Ramona Avenue, Monterey Park, CA 91754. For more information, call (626) 307-1418 or e-mail Library@MontereyPark.ca.gov.

The library also accepts donations of new-to-fairly-new books and magazines in good condition for the Friends Bookstore. Donations should be placed through the Donation Drop next to the rear entrance. All proceeds from sales of donated items go to support the library.

4. How can I reserve a room at the library?

The library’s meeting rooms are available for public use of a civic, cultural or educational character. The facilities are not available for commercial purposes except by the Library Foundation and the Friends of the Library. Meeting rooms are available only during library hours. Application forms are available from the Reference Desk or from the library’s website. An organization is required to provide a security hold of $100 before an application to reserve a meeting room is approved. Each organization wishing to use a library meeting room must agree to abide by the library’s rules and regulations.

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1. Why is my apartment building being inspected by the fire department?

In 2008, the California State Fire Marshal determined that all multi-family residential buildings in the State of California consisting of three or more units shall be inspected annually by the local Fire Department throughout the state. It was determined through data received from the Los Angeles County Assessors’ Office that your property falls within this category. In an attempt to meet the requirement set forth by the State Fire Marshal, the Fire Department (FD) has developed, evaluated, and implemented a uniform and equitable plan to inspect all properties in its jurisdiction that fall within these criteria.

2. When will my property(ies) be inspected?

Inspections are being conducted on a systematic basis with consideration of the building density and potential for fire, life, and panic emergencies. The FD’s compliance plan has a minimum performance goal of completing all associated apartment housing annual inspections and follow-up compliance inspections each calendar year. You can anticipate that your property will be inspected beginning January 1^st thru December 31^st.

3. What am I required to do prior to the inspection?

As the property owner/manager you are encouraged to immediately conduct a thorough walk-through of your property with a focus on identifying potential hazards and correcting them.

4. What will be the areas of focus during the Fire Department inspection?

A routine fire and safety inspection will be conducted on your property. The inspector will focus on the building perimeter and common areas (open garage, stairwells, laundry areas, etc).

5. Why have I received a “Notice of Violation” (NOV) from Code Enforcement?

During a recent fire/life safety inspection of your property, our inspector found a fire code violation(s) needing your immediate attention and corrective action. You can anticipate a follow-up inspection 21 days from the date of inspection, to verify corrections on the item(s) identified on the NOV.

6. Is there a cost associated with the Fire Department inspection?

Yes, there is an annual inspection fee to property owner(s), which is assessed at the established City rate.  If the property is found to be in violation, and the owner(s) fails to make the corrections during the allowed period, a re-inspection fee of $112.67 may be assessed by the City for each additional inspection thereafter until all corrections are completed.

7. How will I know the results of the inspection on my property?

If any violations are observed, you will receive a Notice of Violation from the FD.  If your property is in full compliance you will not receive any notifications.

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1. What is Floor Area Ratio (FAR) and how does it affect my property?

As defined by the Zoning Code, Floor Area Ratio (FAR) is the total net floor area on a zoning lot divided by the gross area of that lot, prior to any required dedications for street or utility right of way.

2. What more do I need to provide in my commercial parking lot?

On this commercial parking issue, parking standards are developed not only as mere numbers, but as major components to a successful business’ image and vitality, and parking standards will also serve for the functions of circulation, pedestrian safety, convenience and visual aesthetics. Parking development issues can also be raised in the development of parking structures, both above grade and subterranean.

3. What is the General Plan of the city?

The General Plan has been often referred to as the city’s constitution or blueprint for the future on land use and development issues. State Law (Government Code Section 65300) requires each city to prepare and adopt a general plan.

4. How many parking spaces do I need for my business?

Although this question asks for quantifying the specific need of parking spaces, parking standards are developed not only as mere numbers, but as major components to a successful business’ image and viability. Parking standards will serve for the basis functions of circulation and vehicle storage, and also provide for pedestrian safety, convenience and visual aesthetics.

5. How many dwelling units can I build on my residential property?

Zoning codes also serve to control the amount of building construction in order to satisfy acceptable community standards related to residential densities and living conditions. One such requirement is the maximum number of units that can be built on a property. Density varies depending upon the residential zone in which it is located, for example, R-1 (Single Family), R-2 (Medium Density) or R-3 (High Density) and/or the property’s land area.

6. I need a sign for my business. What process do I need to go through to put it up?

Generally, all new signs and sign face changes will need to be submitted to the Design Review Board for evaluation. This process can be bypassed if the commercial center in which the business is located has an approved master sign program. Otherwise, an application for Design Review must be completed.

7. Why can’t I put a six feet high wall in the front yard of my house?

The current standard of a maximum of four feet, or in some cases, four and one-half feet, is implemented to provide not only a type of security for the property, but also to insure visibility for safety reasons.

If you are considering the in the front yard, please stop by City Hall to submit a simple site plan and wall elevation for Planning clearance prior to starting the work

8. What do I need to do to replace that old asphalt driveway with a new concrete one for my single family property?

To replace the asphalt driveway you will need to submit a simple site plan which indicates the buildings and structures and provides dimensions for the driveway. Your plan needs Planning clearance prior to commencing any work.

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1. What is Slurry Seal?

Slurry Seal is a petroleum-based emulsion product, mixed with fine aggregate rock and fillers. It is blended on-site in a large truck, and then applied evenly across the entire surface of an asphalt street. A slurry seal is typically 1/4 to 3/8 of an inch thick. By reusing old tires and tennis balls as the filler and using special emulsion, new technology allows us to apply a slurry solution in the morning and then drive on it in the evening.

2. What does it do?

Slurry Seal provides a new protective surface and smooth driving surface to an existing asphalt street. By sealing the street, the base of the road is protected from water damage and the surface is protected from weathering. This extends the service life of our roadways and cuts down on costly repairs and repaving projects caused by oxidized aged pavement surface that has lost its flexibility. Slurry seal can extend the serviceable life of a residential street up to 40 percent.

3. When will my street be slurried?

Slurry Seal projects are usually scheduled to be done during the months of April, May, or June but may be delayed to allow the City to obtain better pricing and avoid short-term spikes in oil costs. Depending on the availability of funding, the pavement conditions of individual streets and the last time a particular street or area was slurry sealed, the City will select the next grouping of streets to be slurried from year to year. Prior to the streets being slurried, residents will receive notices from the City, and the contractor, with the date that street is to be slurried and parking instructions.

4. How will this affect access to my street?

During the slurry seal application, access to your street will be interrupted for a maximum of 12 hours, one day only, unless the contractor is delayed due to equipment failures, weather-related problems, or other unforeseen reasons. If your street is not sealed as scheduled, it will be added toward the end of the list and you will be re-notified 24 to 48 hours in advance of the contractor returning and sealing your street. If your street is scheduled to be slurried, you will be asked not to drive or park on the listed day or to use your sprinklers or water hose. This will help to prevent aesthetic damage to the slurry.

5. How will this affect the mail and other services?

It should not affect these services significantly. The Public Works Department coordinates with the Post Office, trash company, and the Police and Fire Departments so reasonable accommodations may be made.

6. What will city crews be doing to prepare the streets for slurry seal?

The City’s Street Crew will be sealing cracks and patching street defects prior to the actual slurry seal. These activities may require numerous visits to your street due to the specialized nature of each repair method. This work can be dusty and noisy.

7. What will city crews be doing after my street is slurried?

For streets that have road markings and/or permanent pavement markers, the city’s traffic crew will place temporary road markers wherever possible. Within one to two days the traffic crew will begin to repaint all the previous street markings and replace permanent pavement markers. The traffic crew will also locate any sewer manholes that might have been completely covered during the slurry process.

8. Why are small rocks collecting along the edge of my street?

This is a normal short-term occurrence after slurry has been applied. A small percentage of rock does not adhere completely and eventually becomes loose. As cars travel the street, these small rocks are swept to the edge. These rocks will be cleaned up through the city’s weekly street sweeping program.

Show All Answers

1. How do I pay my water bill?

Water bills are mailed out on a two-month cycle. There are three ways to pay your bill: by mail, in person, or automatic billing.

Bills can be paid in person at the Cashiers Counter located in the first floor of the Monterey Park City Hall at 320 W. Newmark Ave. View the location map online. The city has recently established a new automated billing system where your water bill can be automatically paid from your checking account. See more information on automated billing. To mail a payment, send it to Water / Refuse Billing at 320 West Newmark Avenue, Monterey Park, CA 91754. For additional information about your water bill you may call 626-307-1342.

2. How do I report problems such as dirty water or a water leak in the street?

Between 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 pm. please call 626-307-1320. After hours please contact the Monterey Park Police Department at 626-573-1311.  You will be able to speak to someone 24 hours a day.

3. What is our source of water?

The City of Monterey Park Water System receives its water supply from one source - local groundwater. The water is produced by 12 City-owned wells with a total capacity of 20 million gallons per day (mgd). The wells reach a depth of up to 1,800 feet and are located in the vicinity of the Rio Hondo, which is outside the city limits and in the Main San Gabriel groundwater basin. Water from our deep wells is of excellent quality and requires little or no treatment. The Monterey Park Water System supplies an average of 10 mgd to its customers.


On average, about 65% of the water used each year is supplied from local rainfall; the other 35% is imported from northern California and then percolated into the groundwater aquifers. The water is imported for us by the San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District, a public agency, and of which the City of Monterey Park is a member.

4. How much water does the Monterey Park community use?

Usage ranges from an average low of 7.3 million gallons per day (mgd) in February to an average high of 12 mgd in August. Average use per person is 100-110 gallons per day.

5. What is ground water?

Contrary to what a lot of people think, groundwater is not found in underground rivers or lakes. Rather, it is water that fills the cracks and pore spaces in rocks and sediments that lie beneath the surface of the earth, much the way water fills the open spaces and saturates a sponge or towel.

6. Why is keeping our groundwater clean so important?

The San Gabriel Valley is unique in that it is one of the few natural underground reservoirs in the United States. Rain and snowmelt comes down from the San Gabriel Mountains through a series of dams and are then diverted to "spreading basins". Spreading basins are designated areas of land that are very permeable, such as sand and gravel areas. Water can then percolate into the ground. 100% of the water served to residents and businesses in Monterey Park comes from groundwater. Thus, keeping our groundwater resource clean is vitally important to all of us.

7. Where do groundwater toxins come from?

Many products we use around our homes everyday are considered toxic, such as household cleaners, flea powders, garden pesticides, paints, varnishes, motor oil, and antifreeze. These products are not only hazardous to our health, but to our environment. By disposing these harmful products improperly, we are contributing to the groundwater contamination in the San Gabriel Valley.

8. Can contaminated groundwater be cleaned up?

Yes, but it can be time-consuming and expensive. Communities whose drinking water source has become contaminated have had to spend millions of dollars to remove contaminants from the water before it can be piped to homes and businesses. The cleanup is effective, but it can significantly affect the cost of providing the water to customers. It is far better to prevent contamination in the first place. What are the dos and do nots for groundwater?

Do:

• Purchase only what you need


• Use products completely before disposing


• Recycle whatever you can (oil, batteries, etc.)


• Recycle surplus paints

Do not:

• Dump products onto the ground (they can contaminate soil and groundwater)


• Pour products or wastes into the street (they can contaminate oceans, lakes, and groundwater)


• Put hazardous or toxic products in the trash


• Pour products down the drain

View proper disposal of Household Hazardous Wastes online.

9. Is our water fluoridated?

At this time fluoride is not added to the water. There are low levels of fluoride naturally occurring in the water. The range at which they occur is between 0.2 to 0.8 milligrams per liter (mg/L). The optimum fluoride level recommended to reduce dental caries (cavities) is a consistent .8 mg/L does. A bill signed by Governor Wilson in 1997 mandates drinking water fluoridation for larger water utilities, including Monterey Park, and requires the state to provide funding for the installation and operation of fluoridation equipment. The state is currently seeking funding for this program.

10. Does the City of Monterey Park own the Garvey Reservoir?

The Garvey Reservoir is not owned by the City of Monterey Park and the water it contains is not stored for city use.