Los Angeles is filled with sidewalks. We have over 11,000 feet of concrete sidewalks throughout the entire city. We also have plenty of parkways to break up the concrete monotony.
What is a parkway? Have you ever noticed that part of a sidewalk that has grass? Or maybe trees and weeds? That’s a parkway. Those islands installed in the middle of streets that house trees and probably more weeds? Those are parkways.
But did you know that you can beautify that parkway? It all starts with an A-Permit.
When do I need an A-Permit for tree wells and landscaping in Los Angeles?
Not every property owner needs to obtain an A-Permit to add some landscaping to these forgotten parkways.
If you are a homeowner and you want to improve your parkway, you most likely do not need an A-Permit. As long as your property is zoned to have up to 10 residences, you can replace the shrubs and plants with landscaping, including edible plants. Your landscaping does have to comply with city regulations regarding plant materials and irrigation. But otherwise, you’re good to go.
Now, if you are a commercial property looking to spruce up your parkways, you will have to get an A-Permit. If you are planting a tree, you may also need a tree permit.
As part of your A-Permit, the City Bureau of Engineering will assess:
- Ground level planting and irrigation plans
- Detail sheets describing how and where each type of parkway landscape material will be applied.
- Street plans showing curb, gutter, driveway, curb ramp, or sidewalk improvements where applicable.
What can I plant in a parkway in Los Angeles?
Here are the types of plants that can be planted in parkways in Los Angeles:
- Drought-tolerant or drought-resistant (edible plants are exempted)
- Plant materials that are 3 feet tall or shorter \
- Plant material must be shorter than two feet if the plant is near a street intersection or within five feet of a driveway
- The plants must cover at least 80% of the parkway after the plants are fully mature.
The following CANNOT be planted in Los Angeles parkways:
- Plant materials that are poisonous, noxious or invasive species
- Plant materials that have spines or thorns
- Shrubs or plants that form a hedge
Turf is prohibited from both residential and non-residential parkways unless species is specified from the Drought-Tolerant Turf and Turf-Substitute Species.
Plants cannot be placed within one foot of utility vaults, meter boxes, fire hydrants, and traffic signals and poles.
In addition, hanging ropes, cords, strings or nursery stakes are allowed within parkways. Large stakes for trees may be installed as long as they conform with city regulations.
Who can pull an A-Permit in Los Angeles?
Anyone. The city does not place any restrictions on who can pull an A-Permit. Typically, property owners hire professional permit expeditors or licensed contractors to slog through the red tape.
How much does an A-Permit cost in Los Angeles?
It all depends on the project. The permit itself is just $375. However, you still need to pay for the inspections and the cost of the permit is based on the scope of the project. In other words, the larger the project, the higher the fee.
Ready to hand the permit pulling to the professionals? Give us a call today for a free estimate.
Need Help With Your A-Permit Project?
A-Permit.com handles the entire permit process — from application to BOE inspection.