Pasadena Property Owner Faces Code Enforcement Hearing Over Unpermitted Work

A property owner in the 600 block of Rim Road in Pasadena will face the city’s Code Enforcement Commission on Thursday, Nov. 6, over allegations of unpermitted construction work.

The commission will convene at 4 p.m. at the Permit Center Lobby, at 175 N. Garfield Ave.

Case No. CTP2024-02355 involves violations of the Pasadena Municipal Code and California Building Code. The property is located in Council District 4.

City officials allege the owner failed to obtain required permits before construction work began. Such violations carry potential misdemeanor charges.

Under California Building Code Section 105.1, owners must apply for permits before constructing, altering or repairing structures. The code also covers electrical, gas, mechanical and plumbing systems.

Pasadena Municipal Code Section 14.04.030 makes unpermitted work unlawful. Penalties can reach $1,000 or double the permit fee, whichever is greater.

Violators could also face up to one year in jail. Each day of continued violation counts as a separate offense.

Panel No. 1 will hear the case. Michael Warner will chair the three-member panel. Harvey Cordner and Imran Chaudhry will also serve.

Representing City staff are Code Compliance Manager Jon Pollard and Code Compliance Officer Cynthia Bao.

Public comment will be allowed. Speakers are limited to three minutes each.

Language translation services are available with 24-hour advance notice by calling (626) 744-4031.

The Code Enforcement Commission in Pasadena reviews and decides on cases and appeals related to specific city regulations, including animal control, building construction, zoning, weed abatement, and abandoned vehicles.

When City staff present cases of non-compliance, the Commission can order corrective action. It also provides guidance to the City Council on enforcement policies and animal control matters.

The Commission is made up of nine members. Each of the seven City Council members appoints one person, and the Mayor nominates one member based on recommendations from the Council. All members must live in Pasadena and are required to file an annual Statement of Economic Interest.