Frequently Asked Questions

The number and type of signs you can have for your business depend on your location's zoning and whether there's an established sign program for the property. These regulations are detailed in the La Habra Municipal Code, Chapter 18.23.

To determine what's permitted for your business, we strongly recommend you contact the Planning Division. They can tell you your property's zoning designation and if a sign program is already in place.

Sign Permit Requirements

All business permanent signs require a permit issued by the Building & Safety Division. For questions about the sign permit process, please contact the Building & Safety Division at 562-383-4116.

The two most common code violations for new businesses are related to trash and debris and business licenses. All businesses must maintain their property and have an active City of La Habra business license.  

Discarded Trash and Debris Violations

Business License

All businesses in the City of La Habra must obtain a business license before operating a business.

Businesses are required to maintain their landscaping. To avoid a violation, make sure you have an ongoing maintenance plan and:

• Keep plants trimmed: Don't let bushes or trees grow into sidewalks or public areas.

• Remove dead vegetation: Pull out weeds and replace dead or barren plants.

A well-maintained landscape can positively affect your property's value and the community's image.

Discarded Trash and Debris Violations

All properties must be kept clean and orderly. To avoid a violation, ensure that all trash, junk, and debris are removed promptly. This includes items like broken furniture, old appliances, or any other unusable items left outside. Regularly monitoring your property (at least once a day) will help prevent this issue. Keeping your property free of trash is also important for public safety, as it prevents fire hazards and keeps rodents away.

In La Habra, temporary signs are permitted with certain restrictions. Here's what you need to know:

• What is a temporary sign? In most cases, a temporary sign is a banner.

• How many banners can I have? You are allowed one banner for up to 30 days. This can be done up to three times per year, with a minimum of 30 days between each permit.

• Where can I place it? The banner must be attached to an exterior building wall, located below the eave or parapet and cannot be attached to any landscaping.

• Are "human signs" allowed? No, "human signs" (people holding or wearing signs) are not permitted.

For more details, you can review the La Habra Municipal Code, Section 18.23.090.

To obtain a temporary sign permit, contact the Planning Division at 562-383-4100 or visit the City's online portal .

Yes, you can run a business from your home, provided you obtain a Home Occupation Permit. This permit is required for any small business operated from a residence in La Habra.

Home Business Requirements

To be approved for a permit, a home business must meet several criteria to ensure it doesn't negatively impact the neighborhood:

• No Impact: The business cannot create noise, odors, or cause an increase in vehicle or pedestrian traffic.

• Signage: No exterior signs are allowed to identify the location as a business.

• Personnel: No more than two persons other than a member of the immediate family occupying such dwelling shall be employed.

If you want to start a home-based business and have more questions, contact the City at 562-383-4134.