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1. Garage and yard sales...what are the rules?

Permits for garage or yard sales are not required, but residents are asked to hold no more than two per year. Advertising signs may not be posted in the public right-of-way (for example on street signs, street trees, traffic signals, streetlight poles, or inside road medians). Residents may advertise through local publications or by asking neighbors to post signs on their private property. Signs shall not exceed three square feet in area and may only be displayed during the time of the sale. The signs shall be promptly removed at the end of the sale.

2. How long may holiday lights be displayed?

The City's Municipal Code states that exterior holiday lights and decorations must be removed within 30 days of installation, and no later than mid January.

Besides contributing to blight, keeping holiday lights installed for an extended period of time creates the potential for a fire hazard because of their temporary-use nature.

Homeowners found not to be in compliance will be issued a courtesy notice to correct violation within 10 days. Failing to remove the lights within the allotted time frame can result in a $100 fine.

3. Is there a regulation against storing inoperative motor vehicles?

Yes. All vehicles that are being repaired, dismantled, or incapable of operating are considered "inoperable" and must be stored out of public view, such as in the garage, when possible. It is considered a violation of the City Code if the vehicle or its parts become a hazard to the public health and safety.

4. What are the rules for storage on my property?

The Neighborhood Improvement Officers enforce all City Municipal Codes applicable in the community, including the provision against the open storage of junk. This code states that front and side yards shall be kept and maintained free and clear of all construction and automotive materials or parts, trash, refuse, debris, inoperative motor vehicles, camper shells, discarded or broken materials, appliances, furniture, junk, equipment or similar materials.

If a property is found not in compliance with the code, a notice of violation is sent to the owner allowing a certain number of days to correct the violation. If a violation is not corrected within the time allowed, the owner may be fined. Any debris that is found, which is associated with the code violation, may be removed by a contractor at the property owner's expense. Failure to pay the fine will result in a lien being placed against the property.

Contact the Neighborhood Improvement Officer at 909-839-7030.

5. When and why do I need a building permit?

If you are planning renovations or new construction in or around your property, chances are you will need to obtain a building permit. Taking out a permit before commencing your construction project not only keeps you in compliance with City law, but also protects you and your investment - be it a home or a business. For more information, contact the Building and Safety Division.

6. Who is responsible for picking up stray shopping carts?

Shopping carts are private property and provided to shoppers as a customer service. Removing them from their respective store parking lot is illegal. Also, carts left on sidewalks or streets create visual blight and pose hazards to motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists. This makes them a violation of 12.04.140 of the City's Municipal Code that prohibits encroachment within public streets and sidewalks. Report stray shopping carts by completing a request online or calling (888) 992-4778. 

7. Is there a regulation against storing inoperative motor vehicles?

Yes. All vehicles that are being repaired, dismantled, or incapable of operating are considered "inoperable" and must be stored out of public view, such as in the garage, when possible. It is considered a violation of the City Code if the vehicle or its parts become a hazard to the public health and safety. To report, contact the Neighborhood Improvement Division at 909.839.7030.

8. How do I report a run-down property?

The City’s Neighborhood Improvement Officers enforce all the municipal codes applicable in the community. If an Officer determines that a property is not in compliance , a notice of violation is sent to the owner allowing a certain number of days to correct the violation. If a violation is not corrected within the time allowed, the owner may receive a citation and fine. Any action that is taken in association with correcting the violation will be charged to the property owner. Contact the Neighborhood Improvement Division at 909-839-7030.

9. What can I do about overhanging branches from a neighbor’s tree?

By law, you have the right to trim tree branches that extend into your property line. However, it is good practice to bring up the issue with your neighbor first. Give them a chance to take care of the trimming themselves, and/or offer to do it if they prefer. 

Keep in mind that California has very strict laws regarding tree trimming. Under section 3346 of the California Civil Code, a person may not cut or remove any part of a tree that does not overhang their property. If you cause the tree to die or cause so much damage that its value is destroyed, you may be held financially responsible. Furthermore, certain trees such as the native oak, walnut, sycamore and willow are protected by Diamond Bar ordinance, even if they are on private property. If the pruning is extensive, you need to first obtain a permit. Refer to Chapter 22.38 of Diamond Bar Municipal Code for more information on tree preservation and protection.