| Frequently Asked Questions | ||
Listed below are some of the City's most fequently asked questions arranged by category. Click on the category you are interested in then scroll through the questions and answers provided. For more detailed information, please call Whittier City Hall at (562) 945-8200. What positions do you have available? All of our current job openings are listed on our website, click here to see current listings. Where can I find detailed information about a job listing? Salary, duties and position requirements are all listed on the job flyer. Click here to see current City postings. Where can I get an employment application? Employment applications are available in person from Human Resources in City Hall, or you may download the application - (Adobe Reader is required to view/print), or they can be mailed to you. To have an application mailed to you please call Human Resources Staff during normal business hours at (562) 464-3390. Can I fax my employment application to you? Yes, we will accept applications sent via fax only if we receive your original application via the mail or in person and the job listing does not prohibit faxes. We will replace your faxed application with the original when it is received. Can I get Earthquake preparedness material in Spanish? We do have copies of a booklet entitled “Earthquake Preparedness,” available in Spanish and we’d be happy to mail you a copy, or you can pick one up by coming to City Hall. If you have Spanish-speaking neighbors who might want a copy, we could send you a few copies. For material in English, we can send them copies of some of the handouts from our ALERT Program. What opportunities are there for citizens to get involved in Emergency Response/ Preparedness? The City sponsors several programs for citizens to become involved. Call (562) 464-3390 for more information. Can I reserve the park, tables, or a room for a private party? We do not reserve the “park” but if the group exceeds 100 people it is possible to reserve tables. Contact the Parks Department at (562) 464-3370 regarding picnic reservations. Buildings available for private parties are Guirado, Palm, Parnell Parks. To make reservations, please call Community Services at (562) 464-3430. To see accommodations at the City’s parks, click here. How do I rent a room or facility for my event? Submit an application along with any deposits to the facility you want to you use. Can I get a permit for a moon bounce? Moonbounces are allowed at Parnell or Palm Parks, by permit. Please contact the Parks Department at (562) 464-3375 for applications, rules and costs. Can I get married in the park? The City will issue 2-hour permits for weddings at Penn Park and Central Park. Maximum attendance, including the wedding party, is 100 people and the permit fee includes the photo permit. If a professional photographer is used he must hold a current City of Whittier business license or obtain a 1-day business license prior to issuance of the permit. Can I take pictures in the park? The City will issue 1-hour photo permits for portraits and photo shoots at Penn Park and Central Park. Permits will NOT be issued for Beverly Fountain or Mar Vista Fountain. If a professional photographer is used he must hold a current City of Whittier business license or obtain a 1-day business license prior to issuance of the permit. How do I get my parkway tree trimmed? Start by making a request to the Parks Department at (562) 464-3375. Once you have made your request, a supervisor will inspect your tree and then contact you with information about tree trimming. Can I have my City tree removed? It is City policy not to remove a healthy, mature tree. However, we will inspect the tree and notify you about your options and whether the tree meets removal guidelines. Call the Parks Department for more information. Can you give me information on the Skate Park? The Skate Park is located at the Whittier Community Center, 7630 Washington Ave. The Skate Park is open from sunrise until sunset, Monday-Sunday. There is no admission charge, but safety gear is required. The schedule can change due to classes and/or private parties. Where is Whittier Narrows Nature Center and Park? Where is Legg Lake? Whittier Narrows Park, Whittier Narrows Nature Center and Legg Lake are all Los Angeles County Parks that run along Rosemead Blvd and San Gabriel Blvd. Information about the parks is available by calling the Los Angeles County Parks & Recreation Department at (626) 575-5526. Where can I get trail maps for the Whittier Hills? The Puente Hills Landfill Native Habitat Preservation Authority manages the Whittier Hills land and trails. Information about the Arroyo Pescadero trails and Interpretive Center is available by calling (562) 945-9003 What is the Greenway Trail? Where can I find out more about it? Open in January 2009, the Greenway Trail is a five mile bicycle/pedestrian trail which has replaced an abandoned railroad right-of-way. The Greenway begins in the northwest corner of Whittier, near the 605 Freeway, and closely parallels Whittier Boulevard. When it reaches Painter Avenue, it travels along Lambert Road to Mills Avenue, which is where the right-of-way ends. There is an active rail line traveling east from Mills to the City limits, and Whittier hopes to eventually acquire an easement along this line to take the trail to the City limits and link the Greenway to Orange County. The trail passes through residential, commercial, and industrial land, connecting the various areas of the community and allowing residents and visitors to hike or bike through town. For more information about the trail click here or call the Public Works at (562) 464-3510. Click here to view the bike route map. How can I get a brochure and/or sign up for classes? The Recreation Classes Brochure is mailed to City residents four times a year and is also available online (pdf format)by clicking here. There are various ways to sign up for one of the classes. You may come into the Community Center or Parnell Park and sign up in person; you can mail in the registration form and payment from the Brochure or online form; or register by phone or fax with a VISA or MasterCard. Are scholarships available? Scholarships are available for Community Services classes and affiliated sports organizations to City of Whittier residents. You will need to fill out an application form and supply us with proof of income and the Social Security number for every member of your household. Begin the process by calling the Community Center (562) 464-3430 and asking for a scholarship application. What Therapeutic Recreation programs does the City offer? We offer recreational and social activities for persons 12 years and older who are developmentally disabled. Programs include art and drama classes, excursions, Special Olympics and dances. We also have a Whittier Club of the Deaf, a social program for persons hard of hearing or deaf. More information can be found in the Community Services Department brochures. Please call (562) 464-3365 for more information. How do I volunteer? If this is a court referral, you will need to contact the volunteer center located at 13583 Whittier Blvd., Suite 201, (562) 464-3711 or La Mirada Volunteer Center at (562) 943-3177. If this is not a court referral, please call the Community Center or Senior Center at (562) 464-3365. You will need to fill out a volunteer application (available at the Senior Center) and then speak with the City’s volunteer coordinator. If I live in Whittier why don’t I get the discount for classes? Your Whittier address is located in the unincorporated area of Whittier; therefore, you are not addressed for the City of Whittier taxes. Residents in the incorporated area of Whittier pay an additional City of Whittier tax along with the Los Angeles County tax. The City tax helps support our programs, so they receive a resident discount. How do I rent a room or facility for my event? Fill out a facility request form completely and submit it to the facility you wish to rent, along with your deposit. The forms can be picked up at any of our rental facilities or at the Community Center, 7630 Washington Avenue. What are the swimming pool hours at Palm Park? Fall
-Winter - Spring Summer
– Recreational swim hours are: Summer
Adult lap swim during the following hours: What kinds of art programs do you offer? The Recreation Division of the Community Services Department offers many arts and crafts classes for adults and children. The classes are offered quarterly and include such things as painting, drawing, scrapbooking, quilting and stained glass. Click here to see the current brochure. The Whittier Cultural Arts Foundation funds many art programs in the schools and the community, including drama productions and music education in the classroom. Nights at the Hollywood Bowl takes local residents to the Bowl for an enjoyable concert without the hassle of driving and parking. Summer Concerts in the Park feature music in the family atmosphere of a community park. I want to display my artwork in the City Hall lobby. How do I do that? The Cultural Arts Commission, appointed by the City Council and is through the Community Services Department, calls for artists to submit portfolios once a year in late winter. Once portfolios have been reviewed, the Visual Arts Committee selects artists to display throughout the year. Artists will be notified of their scheduled time. Your name and address will then be placed on the mailing list so that you can receive information and what needs to be submitted. Click here to see more information on the Cultural Arts Foundation. I'm replacing my existing driveway approach; do I need to obtain a permit? Yes, any time improvements are being made within the City's right-of-way, a permit is required. The permit can be obtained through the Engineering Division located in Public Works. What is the parkway area in front of my property? The parkway area is defined as that portion of public right of way between the street and your property line. Where does my property line begin? Property lines vary in location, but are often about 8 feet to 12 feet behind the curb. The Engineering Division in Public Works can assist you with this information. Please call (562) 464-3510. I would like to re-landscape or make improvements within my parkway. Do I need City approval? Yes, all proposed improvements need to be reviewed by the City. Please contact the Engineering Division in Public Works prior to beginning any parkway improvements. My water has odor/discoloration/sediment. Who do I report these types of problems to? Public Works Customer Service can schedule someone from the Water Division to go out and check on the problem for you. Please call (562) 464-3530. Is it possible to have the curb in front of my home or business painted? Contact the Engineering Division in Public Works at (562) 464-3510 and they can advise you on what your options are and provide you with an application. Can you tell me about WYN CLUB? The Whittier Youth Network (WYN) Club is an after-school/summer drop-in recreation program for children second-fifth grade and summer ages 7-13 years. Activities include homework, arts and crafts, games, enrichment classes, sports and field trips. The cost for the program is $40 for the school year and $25 for the summer program. The program begins immediately after school each day, and at noon during the summer months. Each site has a minimum of two staff that is trained and has passed a thorough background investigation. Please contact the Community Services office at (562) 464-3434 for the nearest location. Can you give me information on Friday Forum? Friday Forum is a dance program for 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students who attend a Whittier school or reside in the City of Whittier. Dances are held on the first Friday of each month at the Whittier Community Center. The dance begins at 7 p.m. and concludes at 10 p.m. The charge for the Friday Forum dance is $5 per student. Refreshments are also available for an additional charge. Space is limited, so children need to plan to arrive early. A valid school ID and signed parent permission slip are required. When the dance is over, parents/guardians need to walk into the Whittier Community Center to pick up their child. No child will be released without a parent or a guardian. Children that have not been picked up by 10:15 p.m. will be sent to the Police Station until their parents/guardian is able to pick them up. A late fee will be charged. How old do you have to be to join the Senior Center? The Senior Center is open to persons 55 years and older, except for the daily nutrition program, which is for those 60 years and older. How much is membership at the Senior Center? Annual
membership for City of Whittier residents is $3. May I have information on the special events at the Senior Center? Special events are conducted at the Center monthly. The Newsletter and flyers are available at the front desk. Who do I see if I want to volunteer in the Community Services Department or Senior Center? Contact Ruri Pierre, Community Services Supervisor, at the Uptown Senior Center for information. Applications can be obtained at the Uptown Senior Center, 13225 Walnut Street, (562) 464-3365. Planning and Building & Safety Divisions My home is over 50 years old. Does it qualify for a Mills Act Contract/Agreement? Mills Act contract applications may be submitted for consideration to the City if your property is listed as local, State or National historic landmark. If your property is a contributing resource within a designated historic district, it also qualifies for a Mills Act Agreement. If you are interested in learning more about Mills Act Agreements, you are encouraged to call the Community Development Department at (562) 464-3380. When do I need a permit? Permits are required for many types of improvements including: additions, alterations, renovations, new construction, building relocations, demolition and many types of repairs. Permits are required for changing windows, roofing, fences and walls (greater than 18" high), plumbing, electrical, heating and air conditioning systems and landscape irrigation. Work such as painting and carpeting, sidewalks or patio slabs do not require permits. Please check with the Building and Safety Division by calling (562) 464-3380 to make sure. Who do I call if my building is in the unincorporated area, not the City of Whittier? The number of the Los Angeles County Building Division is (562) 946-1390. The number for the Department of Regional Planning is (213) 974-6411. Who can obtain permits? Permits are issued to properly licensed contractors and to owners of residential properties (or their authorized agent) for any or all types of construction work on a residential structure. Property owners and tenants in non-residential facilities may apply for a Building Permit only and permits for Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing work (or other types of work when required by the Building Official) will only be issued to contractors that are appropriately licensed to do the type of work involved in the permit. Contractors must provide a copy of their contractor's license (pocket card) and certificate of workman's compensation insurance. Agents for contractors (including employees not listed on CSLB's Personnel List) or property owners must have a signed and notarized letter of authorization and government issued identification. What does a permit cost? Building permit fees are based on the total value of the job including the value of the labor and materials (these amounts must include fair market prices for donated materials or services). Most projects also require plan check services and, depending on the scope of the work, fees may be required to be paid to other agencies having jurisdiction over your project. Fees for mechanical, electrical and plumbing permits are based on a fixture or "unit" cost. Am I required to hire an architect to draw the plans? A homeowner can prepare their own plans or hire an unlicensed person (draftsperson) to draw plans for single-story residential projects meeting the conventional light-framing requirements of the building code. The City of Whittier requires all commercial improvement plans to be stamped by a licensed design professional. How many sets of plans does the Building and Safety Division need for review? Building and Safety requires two complete sets for residents and three sets for commercial of your plans, specifications, calculations, reports and any other documents necessary for review and approval. Please check with the Planning Division (562-464-3380) and other authorities having jurisdiction (e.g. LA County Fire Department 323-890-4125) for their submittal requirements. How long does the Building and Safety Division plan review process take? Generally, projects require 2-3 weeks review on the average for the initial submittal with rechecks of corrections taking a week to two weeks. More complex projects may take slightly longer to review. What other approvals will I need? It is recommended that you consult with the Planning and Building Permit Technicians to help guide you through the approval processes. A limited number of projects may be reviewed at the counter and issued with simply Planning, Public Works and Building and Safety reviews. Other projects however are more complex and may require review by other departments within City Hall such as the Parks Department or the Police Department and some will require review by outside agencies such as LA County Fire Department, Cal Fire or LA County Environmental Health. Some projects require notifications of the project such as with the South Coast Air Quality Management District or may require fees to be paid such as to one of the many school districts within the City or payment of fees to the LA County Sanitation District before a permit is issued. Each of these other reviews is coordinated directly by the permit applicant and is NOT coordinated by the Building and Safety Division. I want to build a fence adjacent to my neighbor's property, what will I need? All residential fences and walls that exceed 18 feet require both Planning review and a Building Permit. Walls and fences can be a significant investment in your property and will enhance your property if appropriately and attractively designed and constructed. These same walls and fences can however, become a point of contention between neighbors. When you are proposing a new wall or fence that will be adjacent to your neighbor's property the Building and Safety Division requires that either a release be signed by the neighbor indicating that they agree to the location of the proposed wall or fence or that a statement be signed by you indicating that you take full responsibility to ensure that the wall or fence will be constructed entirely upon your property (including the foundations). Ultimately, if your neighbor protests the location of your wall or fence, it will become your responsibility to provide a survey (with any necessary calculations) that is prepared by a licensed surveyor or engineer that will serve as evidence that all work has been constructed entirely on your property. Can I convert my garage into an additional room or secondary unit? Only if the minimum required parking is met or proposed and permits are required. Do you need a permit for window change outs? What do I need to bring? Yes, permits are required for window change outs. You need to bring, to the Planning Division, pictures of the house showing the existing windows, a window schedule and brochures/pictures of the new windows for approval and a site plan and title 24. Do you have information on room additions? Yes, consult with Planning for setback, development standards and design standards. Building has Type V and energy compliance handouts. Planning requires a full set of plans (minimum size for plans is 24" x 36") prior to approval. Does the Building and Safety Division have information on requirements for room additions or other projects? Yes, the Building and Safety Division has many informational handouts with one that should specifically be helpful in preparing your plans. The handouts however, are for informational use and are not a substitute for the preparation of plans needed for approval. Do I need smoke detectors installed to sell my house? The City has no requirement for the retroactive installation of smoke detectors however the LA County Fire Department and the State both have requirements. Please check with those agencies or your local realtor. A permit is required if you install the type of smoke detectors that wire into your home's main electrical power and is not strictly battery-powered. My insurance company is asking me to provide them with what Flood Zone my property is in. How do I obtain that information? Flood zones are the tools FEMA uses to determine the flood risk homeowners face. Prior to the enactment of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), homeowners had no mechanism to protect themselves from the devastation of flooding and in many parts of the Untied States unchecked development in the floodplain was exacerbating the flood risk. Please call the Planning Division at (562) 464-3380 with the property address and a Planner will research your address in the City's Flood Zone map. How do I arrange for an inspection? Please call one of our staff members at (562) 464-3380 Monday through
Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM and they will assist you in scheduling
your inspection. Be sure that the work is ready for inspection
when you call, that you call a minimum of one business day prior
to your request, that we have full access to the area of improvement
(including provision of a ladder for roof access if needed) and
that an adult is present during the inspection. Our cutoff time
for inspections scheduled for the following business day is 3
PM and, on occasion, the inspectors' work load schedule may require
longer than one business day notice so please provide as much
advance notice as possible. When you call please have the following
information ready to give to our staff: What are the hours when I can reach one of the technicians or an inspector? The Planning and Building and Safety public counter hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. One of the technicians is available during those hours to assist you with consultation or other information. Our Building Inspectors are available by appointment only Monday through Friday from 8 to 8:30 AM or from approximately 3:30 to 4:30 PM. Please call (562) 464-3380 to schedule an appointment. Do you need a permit for a garage sale? What are the garage sale regulations? The City of Whittier does not require permits for garage sales;
however, there are regulations that apply to your event: Do I need a permit for my alarm system? Where do I get it? The Police Department issues alarm system permits. You can contact the Police Department at (562) 945-8250 or visit their website at http://www.whittierpd.org/. Where can I obtain a copy of the General Plan? The General Plan sets the standard for the City and was adopted in 1993. - Sir Speedy has a copy of the General Plan and anyone can get a copy of the entire Plan, or just a portion. - Sir Speedy is located at 7240 Greenleaf Avenue, (562) 698-7513. The cost of the entire Plan is $25.00. Are Temporary Banners permitted? Yes, but they require a simple review by both Planning and Building Divisions. What is the cost for a temporary banner? The total cost for a banner permit is $25.00. How long is a banner permit good for? A banner may be permitted for 10 days within a month. What materials can the Temporary banner be made of? All banners shall be constructed in a professional manner. Materials are plastic, vinyl, canvas or other weather resistant material. Paper, cardboard, clear plastic or other similar material shall not be permitted for banner fabrication. How do I get my banner approved? You are required to bring in a picture of the building including the width of the proposed facade or tenant space. Furthermore, you must physically bring the banner in to the Planning Division, so that staff may affix an approval sticker on the banner itself. Do you need a permit for a retaining wall? Yes: Be sure to indicate grade differences, slopes and location of any adjacent structures or driveways on your plot plan. All retaining walls over 3 feet require engineered plans and calculations as well. How long does the Plan Check process take? Residential: Generally 2-3 weeks on average. Commercial, the initial completeness review can take up to 30 days, in compliance with state law. What is an air quality complaint? How do I register a complaint? Any injury, detriment, nuisance or annoyance occuring as a result of air contaminants or other materials, including, but not limited to, smoke, dust or odors. Call 1-800-CUT-SMOG (1-800-288-7664). What are the City Hall Inspector’s office and field hours? The inspectors are in the office between 8-8:30 a.m. and 4-4:30 p.m. Inspection requests can be taken for the hours 8:30-12 a.m. and 1-4:00 p.m. The customer may only arrange for an appointment by talking with the inspector while they are in the office, or calling the Community Development office at (562) 464-3380. Where can I get a Dial-a-Ride card? Dial-a-Ride cards may be purchased at the Senior Center, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays, 12 noon-4 p.m.; the Transit Depot, Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.; and Parnell Park, Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Where can I purchase an Metro bus pass? Metro bus passes may be purchased at the Senior Center at the Transit Depot. Bus passes are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis from the 25th of the month until the 10th of the next month or until all are sold. Do you have information on the area bus routes? Information on bus routes and schedules is available at the Transit Depot, 7333 Greenleaf Avenue. (562) 698-2131. What is the Section 8 Housing Assistance Program? The Section 8 Program is a rental assistance program subsidized by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Section 8 was designed to help reduce the burden of monthly rent for low-income families. Does the City of Whittier have Section 8? The City of Whittier does not have its own in-house program. However, the Los Angeles County Housing Authority administers Section 8 certificates for the City of Whittier. How can I get information regarding the Section 8 program? The registration/qualification process is done through telephone registration only. The phone number is (562) 347-4663. How does the process for the Section 8 program work? Once you have registered with the Housing Authority, you will be placed on the application waiting list. When your name moves to the top of the list the Housing Authority will send you an application for eligibility. Upon approval of your application, you will be placed on the waiting list for the next available housing certificate. How long does the entire Section 8 process take? This is a first come – first served program and the current waiting period is from seven to ten years. How can I view/purchase the video of a Council Meeting? Council meetings are broadcast live over cable TV on Channel 3 on Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. The meeting is replayed on Wednesdays at 10 a.m., Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 10:00 a.m. DVDs of Council meetings are available to view at the Records Management Division of the City Clerk’s office the day after the meeting. To make an appointment to view a DVD call 562-464-3320. DVDs are also available for checkout and return at the Whittier Public Library. You can purchase a copy of the meeting on VHS tape for $36.00, and a DVD of the meeting is available for $5.00. Call (562) 464-3330 to place your order. How can I locate information about my family history? The City of Whittier has three types of documents that can help you research your family history – cemetery records, Assessor’s Parcel Rolls, and City Directories.
These records are available through the Records Management Division, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. To make an appointment to view records call 562-464-3320. The Whittier Historical Society Museum and the Whittier Public Library can also help you in your research. I need to research the City’s policies. Where do I begin? The City Clerk-Treasurer Department’s Records Management Division can help you discover the history of Whittier’s governmental policies. The Department maintains the City’s Minutes (the record of the Council’s decisions), Ordinances (the City’s laws), and Resolutions (Council’s decision to act) from 1898 to present. Agenda packages and staff reports to the Council, from 1939 to present are available for public review. The City honors both the federal Freedom of Information Act and California’s Public Records Act. The Public Records Act requires that the City respond to a request for Public records within 10 calendar days. Copies of many city documents cost 15¢ a page. Copies made from microfilm are 20¢. Arrangements can be made to obtain copies of photographs, videotapes, audiotapes or other media. Do
you have birth, marriage and death records? When is a business license required? Any person who conducts any business, trade, profession, calling or occupation in the city is required to obtain a license whether or not the physical business address is in or outside the City. Do I need to come in person to apply? If your business is physically located in the city limits of Whittier, you must apply in person or your application will not be accepted. Businesses located outside the city limits may apply by mail. I want to apply for a business license. Can I download an application form from your web site? Yes, click here to download the application in PDF format (Adobe Acrobat Reader Required). For more information, contact the Business License Division at (562) 464-3315. Do I need a physical address for my business? Yes. The business license application requires a physical address for the business location. The Planning Division checks the zoning on every city business license application. Private mailbox addresses are for mailing purposes only and cannot be used as a business address. What if my business is located in the unincorporated area of Whittier? Contact Unincorporated Los Angeles County Business Licenses at (213)974-2011 or visit their website at: http://ttax.co.la.ca.us/Proptax/Business_License.htm. What if I have more that one location in Whittier? A separate license must be obtained for each branch establishment or separate place of business. Do I have to display my business license? The business license must be posted or exhibited in a conspicuous part of the place of business. The owner of a mobile business must carry his license with him at all times while engaged or operating within the city. Is the business license transferable? A license cannot be transferred unless a licensee sells his entire business as a corporation. No license shall be valid for any location other than that specified on the business license. Contact the Business License Office if you move your business, (562) 464-3315. What if I want to operate my business from my home? Whittier Municipal Code Section 18.10.02 regulates businesses based out of the home. Contact the Planning Division of the Community Development Department at (562)464-3380 for the regulations. What if I’m using a fictitious name for my business name? If you are using a fictitious business name (dba-doing business as), California Business & Professions Code requires that you file a fictitious name statement. Contact the Los Angeles County Clerk/Recorder’s Office at (562)466-1694 or visit their website at http://regrec.co.la.ca.us/ for further information. May I put up a sign? Check with the Planning Division before using or installing any type of permanent or temporary sign or banner. Signs are not allowed to be posted in the parkway or on City trees. What if my business involves retail sales? A Seller’s Permit is required if your business engages in the sale of tangible goods by wholesale or retail. Contact the State Board of Equalization at (562)466-1694 or visit their website at http://www.boe.ca.gov/ for information. How do I obtain a massage permit? The City of Whittier has a handout on Massage Technicians and Therapists that explains the Whittier Municipal Code. Massage is permitted under the following conditions: a) When performed by or under the direct supervision of a medical doctor, chiropractor, acupuncturist, or physical therapist. b) When approved with an Adult Conditional Use Permit. You can pick up an application for the Permit at the Planning Division counter. Where can I pay my water/trash bill? Can I use my ATM or credit card to pay my water bill? Water and trash bills can be paid via U.S. mail, dropped in the blue drop-off box in front of City Hall (13230 Penn Street) or paid in person in City Hall. We accept payment by cash or check. We are able to accept debit or credit cards (Mastercard or Visa) in person only. The City is currently undergoing a testing period for online payments. The City expects to be able to begin taking online payments by September 2010. Will my trash be collected on holidays? Trash, recycling and greenwaste will be collected as regularly scheduled except for the following holidays: • New Year’s Day Whenever one of these holidays occurs on a weekday, the collection schedule will be delayed one day for the remainder of the week. For example, since Thanksgiving falls on Thursday, the collection day would be moved to Friday and the collection normally made on Friday would be on Saturday. The final collection for the week would be on Saturday. I have a question or need another copy of my water/refuse bill. Who do I call? Public Works Customer Service Division can answer most of your questions about your service, and provide copies of your bills, please call (562) 464-3530. How do I change my name/address/phone# on my water bill? Public Works Customer Service Division can answer most of your questions about your service, and can process changes to your water bill, please call (562) 464-3530. How do I get a Landfill Permit? Landfill permits may be purchased by Whittier residents of single-family homes at the Public Works counter in City Hall. Call the City’s Customer Service Department for the permit cost. Permits are good for six dumps at the City’s landfill with a maximum of a 3/4 ton pick-up truck per load. Please bring I.D. with correct address such as a driver’s license. I have only one load that I want to dump at the Landfill. Can I get a discount? Special Saturday Residential Discounts entitle you to one dump per Saturday up to a 3/4 ton pick-up truck. A nominal payment is made at the Landfill Gatehouse upon entering. What can I dump at the Landfill? Please be aware that the landfill does not accept green waste, liquids, hazardous or toxic wastes such as full or partial cans of paint, paint thinners, solvents, automotive oil, pesticides, car batteries, bulk fluorescent light bulbs, metal drums that have one or both ends attached, electronics, including but not limited to televisions, VCRs, DVDs, radios, stereos, and tires. Where can I safely and legally dispose of hazardous waste? Los Angeles County sponsors FREE Household Hazardous and E-Waste Roundups on Saturdays. Call (888) CLEAN-LA (1-888-253-2652), go to www.888cleanla.com, www.lacsd.org, or call the City of Whittier at (562) 464-3540 for additional information. Materials accepted include:expired pharmaceuticals, fluorescent lightbulbs, paint, paint thinner, turpentine, cleaners with acid or lye, pesticides and herbicides, household and car batteries, motor oil, oil filters, brake fluid, pool chemicals, televisions, VCRs, DVDs, radios, stereos, tires, computers, monitors, printers, etc. Where can I safely and legally dispose of old/used motor oil? The City of Whittier provides free containers in the Public Works Department at City Hall for transporting used motor oil safely to collection centers. Click here to view a list of centers that accept used oil. Where can I report Storm Drain Dumping? To Report Illegal Storm Drain Dumping or to Receive Information on Storm Water Pollution - call Los Angeles County Department of Public Works (800) 303-0003. When is the Landfill open? The Landfill is open Monday through Saturday 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. It is closed on rainy days, New Years Day, Labor Day, Memorial Day, Thanksgiving Day, 4th of July and Christmas Day. Call (562) 907-7750 or (562) 698-1223 to check status after rains. How do I dispose of construction and demolition waste? Construction and Demolition Waste must not be disposed of in alley containers or on public property. Construction projects must use a roll-off container for disposal of construction and demolition materials. Contact the City or franchise hauler for rental information. Non-City/Whittier franchise hauler roll-off boxes are prohibited and will be impounded. Call (562) 464-3530 or (562) 464-3540 for applicable impound and disposal fees. How do I rent a Roll-off container? What are the sizes available? Four sizes are available, all roll-off containers are 8’ wide x 20’ long externally and 7’, 4” wide x 19’, 6” long internally. Call Public Works Customer Service at (562) 464-3530 or (562) 464-3540 for information on rental rates and delivery options. 10
cubic yards, 2’ in height (use for concrete and dirt only) A roll-off container is too big, do you have anything smaller? You can rent a 2-cubic yard bin for smaller household projects for two dumps or two weeks, whichever comes first. Additional charges apply for extra dumps. Construction materials are not accepted in these smaller bins due to weight limits. Call (562) 464-3530 or (562) 464-3540 for additional information and rates. Where can I pay for my refuse containers? You may pay for your containers in the Public Works Department if you are paying by check. If you are paying with cash, we can take your payment at the Cashier’s Window/Treasury Office at City Hall. The City accepts Visa and MasterCard. I need to dispose of sofa, refrigerator or other large item. How do I arrange for pickup? Whittier single-family residents may request up to four (4) free pick-ups annually of oversized or overweight household articles such as furniture and/or appliances. There is a limit of two items per collection. Please call your refuse service provider to schedule a collection. How can I dispose of extra Greenwaste? Up to five bundles of brush may be scheduled as a free bulky item collection on your refuse day. Do not place extra greenwaste in trash bags and set them beside the containers, they will not be recycled. Call your recycler to request additional containers or a special collection. How do I arrange for pick-up of extra trash? All refuse must be in an automated container. For occasional extra refuse, call your service provider for a special collection. Charges apply and vary depending on quantity and type of items. Residents may purchase “Refuse Overflow” tags for $2.00 for each bag of refuse in City Hall in the Department of Public Works. For collection of large quantities or unusual items, the Solid Waste Supervisor will provide a quote. A minimum charge applies. How can I get extra Trash/Recycling Containers? Call your service provider at the telephone number provided under Customer Service. The basic service level includes providing each single family resident with a 96-gallon green container for greenwaste, a 96-gallon blue container for co-mingled recycling, and a 64-gallon black container for refuse. Residents may request up to three extra green and/or blue containers free of charge. There is a monthly charge for extra black refuse containers. Where should I place my trash/recycling containers on trash day? •
Place containers in the street or on the parkway with lids closed
or in the alley on one side only where the large black alley containers
are/were placed. Where can I keep my trash/recycling Containers? Please remove all containers (refuse and recycling) from the curb and alley once they are emptied. All containers (except the large 300-gallon alley containers) must be removed from the public right-of-way and stored on a customer’s private property. They must also be out of public view from the front and sides of property. According to Municipal Code Section 8.12.132, residents may request a “Refuse Container Permit” for those serviced in an alley who cannot place their containers on their private property. Call your refuse hauler. Where can I find information about the members of the City Council? Please click here to see pictures and biographies of the Whittier City Council. How can I become a Board and Commission member? Click here for board and commission qualifications and application form. Can you tell me when the Commissions meet? Click here for information on the City’s Boards and Commission meetings. Click here to view the City's Boards and Commission meetings calendar. How do I register to vote? Voter registration forms are available at the City Clerk’s office, Whittier Libraries and post offices. You can register to vote on-line through the Secretary of State's office at www.sos.ca.gov. To obtain a form in the mail call the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk at 1-800-815-2666. The County is the agency responsible for voter registration records for Whittier voters. How can I become a Council Member? How can I become the Mayor? The City holds an election for City Council on the second Tuesday of April in even-numbered years. The election is announced in November. Candidate Handbooks are available in mid-December. Once the Election results are final, the City Clerk administers the oath of office to each Council Member. The first order of business is the election of the mayor from the members of the Council. The selected Council Member will serve as mayor for one year. On the third Tuesday in April of odd-numbered years, the City Council again selects a new Mayor. How can I serve the City? Registered voters of the City of Whittier can apply to become a member of a City board, commission, committee or task force. The City Clerk’s office will have information about how to apply for the positions available. Click here for an application. The City also has volunteer positions available through the Community Services Department and the Whittier Public Library. Contact Ruri Pierre, Community Services Supervisor, at the Senior Center, (562) 464-3365, for more information, to volunteer for the Community Services Dept. Applications can be obtained at the Senior Center, 13225 Walnut St. Contact the Library at (562) 464-3450 for volunteer opportunities at the two libraries. What cable company serves Whittier and what are the service parameters? Video porgramming services are provided
by Charter Communications and Verizon FIOS. The companies must
provide customers with: Who do I talk to regarding the Cable Television franchise? The state now issues all cable television franchises in California. For further information, contact the State Public Utilities Commission at: http://www.cpuc.ca.gov/puc/ What do I need to do to put something on the Channel 6 message board? Channel 6 is a municipal access channel and will put information on the screen for non-profit, Whittier-based organizations. You may e-mail event information to admin@cityofwhittier.org.. Click here to see the regular programming schedule. How do I talk to/reach a Council Member? Is the City Council in the office (i.e. City Hall) during the day? The City Council doesn’t hold regular office hours during the day due to regular full-time jobs; however, call Administration to leave a message at 464-3301 Who is our City Attorney? The City contracts with Richard D. Jones, Attorney at Law. Contact the City Manager's Office for more information at 464-3301. How do I set up a tour of City Hall for my classroom or Girl Scout/Boy Scout Troop? Please call the City Manager's Office at 464-3301. Who do I talk to regarding filming in the City of Whittier? Do I need a film permit if I’m a student? Yes, contact the Whittier Police Department at 945-8247 for more information. You can click here to download an application in pdf format. I would like to request a Proclamation or Certificate of Commendation. Who do I talk to? Please call the City Manager's Office at 464-3301. Does the City do a Certificate for an Eagle Scout or Girl Scout Gold or Silver Award? Yes, call the City Manager's Office at 464-3301. When are the Council meetings/Planning Commission meetings shown on CableTV? City Council and Planning Commission meetings are shown live on scheduled meeting dates. Replays are shown throughout the week. Call Administration for schedule – 464-3301 or click here to see this month's and next month's calendared meetings. The City channel on the Charter Communications System is Channel 3. Verizon FIOS offers the City Channel on Channel 3. |
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