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1. Who provides Animal Control Services to the City of Laguna Niguel?

The City of Laguna Niguel contracts with Mission Viejo Animal Shelter for animal control services. The Mission Viejo Animal Shelter can be contacted by calling (949) 470-3045. Service information is also available through their website at More...

2. What services are provided by Mission Viejo Animal Shelter?

Services provided by Mission Viejo Animal Shelter include pet licensing, patrol, adoption, and shelter services. The shelter hours are Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm., Wednesdays, 12:00 Noon – 6:00 pm and Sundays, 12 Noon to 3:00 pm

3. Who do I call for Animal Control services during non-business hours?

If you have an emergency, please call 911. If you are in need of Animal Control services and you cannot wait until the next business day, please contact the Orange County Sheriff’s Department at (949) 770-6011. The OCSD Dispatch will page an Animal Control Officer.

4. How do I get a license for my pet?

For pet licensing, please contact Mission Viejo Animal Shelter at (949) 470-3045. License applications are available at the Shelter located at 28905 Hillcrest Drive, Mission Viejo, Laguna Niguel City Hall, 30111 Crown Valley Parkway, and online

5. Who do I contact regarding a barking dog?

Contact Mission Viejo Animal Shelter at (949) 470-3045 and they will provide assistance with barking dog complaints.

6. Does the City of Laguna Niguel have a Leash Law?

Yes, all dogs must be restrained by a leash not to exceed six feet in length.

7. Does the City of Laguna Niguel have a Dog Park?

The City’s Pooch Park is located on Golden Lantern immediately adjacent to Fire Station 49. The Pooch Park is open from dawn to dusk.

8. There is a dead animal in the street, how can it be removed?

Dead animals should be reported to Mission Viejo Animal Shelter at (949) 470-3045.

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1. Does the City require a business license?

No. Although the City of Laguna Niguel does not require a business licensee, there are certain approvals required for a new business. Please review the details provided under A Guide to Starting Your Own Business.

2. Can I operate a business out of my home?

Yes, however, you must first obtain a Home Occupation Permit. There are restrictions as to the type of business that a resident can operate out of a residential property.

3. How can I obtain business ownership information?

The City does not have business ownership information since we do not require a business license. The information may be obtained by contacting the County of Orange Clerk-Recorder’s Office at (714) 834-3005 or visit their website at http://www.ocrecorder.com/ The California Secretary of State’s website at https://www.sos.ca.gov/ provides State information on corporations and limited liability partnerships.

4. Is there a crime prevention program specific to businesses?

Yes. The City’s Business Watch is a crime prevention program that is specifically focused on the Laguna Niguel’s business community. Business members can participate in this program at no cost or obligation. For additional information, please contact Laguna Niguel Police Services at (949) 362–4312. To schedule an appointment to sign up for the Business Watch program, please call Laguna Niguel Police Services at (949) 362-4312.

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1. How many Boards, Commissions & Committees does the City have?

The City of Laguna Niguel has eight advisory commissions and committees consisting of:

• Investment, Banking & Audit Committee
• Military Support Committee
• Parks & Recreation Commission
• Planning Commission
• Senior Citizens’ Committee
• Traffic & Transportation Commission
• Youth Committee

2. What are the requirements for service on a Board, Commission or Committee?

You are required to be a resident of the City of Laguna Niguel. There is no residency requirement for the Military Support Committee.

3. What are the duties of the Boards, Commissions or Committees?

Specific duties of the commissions and committees are available on-line during the recruitment period, which generally occurs in October, or in the City Clerk’s office located at City Hall, 30111 Crown Valley Parkway, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677.

4. How can I apply to serve on a Board, Commission or Committee?

You may apply by completing an application form, which is available online or in the City Clerk’s office during the recruitment period, which generally occurs in October. Call the City Clerk’s office (949) 362-4300 for additional information.

5. How often do vacancies on a Board, Commission or Committee occur?

Vacancies occur in two ways. First, a notice of vacancies is published in the Laguna Niguel News for approximately three weeks, generally during October. Also, members may resign during a term causing an unscheduled vacancy. These vacancies are published in the Laguna Niguel News. Current appointments are posted at City Hall at 30111 Crown Valley Parkway.

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1. When are elections held in the City of Laguna Niguel?

Elections for Council Members are held on even-numbered years on the Tuesday following the first Monday in November. The next City election will be held on November 8, 2016.

2. Is there a fee involved in filing for office?

No, there is no filing fee.

3. What do I need to do to become a candidate for the next City election?

To become a candidate in the next City election, you must first be a registered voter and reside in the City of Laguna Niguel at the time nomination forms are issued to you.

4. Where do I get the required forms to start a campaign committee? What forms do I need?

You may obtain the required forms from the City Clerk’s office, 30111 Crown Valley Parkway, Laguna Niguel, California or you may download the forms available from the Fair Political Practices Commission (see link below). If a candidate intends to solicit donations or spend more than $1,000 they must file the following Form 410: Statement of Organization with the Secretary of State and provide a copy to the City Clerk.

Fair Political Practices Commission Website

5. Does the City of Laguna Niguel have a campaign contribution limit?

Yes. Laguna Niguel provides that candidates for city office shall accept no more than $1,000 from any one person per election cycle.

NOTE: Candidates have no restrictions as to the amount of money they can contribute from their own personal funds to their campaign account.

6. Where do I get election results? How long does it take to count the ballots?

At 8:00 p.m. on Election Day, the polls close. All the ballots from the polling places are taken to the County Registrar of Voters Office where they are counted by computer. Ballot counting continues until all the ballots received at the polls are tallied (this sometimes takes all night). The results which are “unofficial” at this point are given to the newspapers, television, radio stations, and individuals waiting in the Registrar of Voters office. Results are also available on the County Registrar’s web site at: http://ocvote.com

7. How do I register to vote?

If you are a U.S. Citizen and over 18 years of age, you are eligible to register to vote. If a person makes any change in his/her name, address or political party, he/she must re-register. Voter registration cards are available from the City Clerk’s office. Registration forms are also available at the County of Orange Registrar of Voters Office, 1300 South Grand Avenue, Santa Ana. Click on the link below for more information. Voter Registration Information

8. On Election Day, how and where do I vote?

Before each election, the Registrar of Voters sends every registered voter a Voter Information Guide “Sample Ballot” that lists the candidates and tells the voter where to vote (polling place). On Election Day, you should go to the polling place indicated on the pamphlet. You may also contact the City Clerk at (949) 362-4300 on Election Day to find out your local polling place.

9. When do candidates who are elected take office?

The Registrar of Voters Office certifies election results (the Registrar has up to 28 days following Election Day to complete this work). The final results are sent to the City Clerk who in turn presents them to the City Council at a Special Meeting for certification. The City Clerk administers the Oath of Office to the successful candidates at the second Council meeting in November or the first Council meeting in December.

10. Who is responsible for conducting City elections?

The Orange County Registrar of Voters conducts elections for the City of Laguna Niguel. The City Clerk provides candidates with the necessary forms to run for office and advises them about procedures, accepts and maintains campaign statement records, provides voter registration forms and maintains precinct information. The Registrar of Voters prints the ballots and voter pamphlet, trains poll workers, administers elections at the polls, counts the ballots and certifies the election results.

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1. When and where does the City Council meet?

The City Council meets for their regular meetings on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall Council Chambers, 30111 Crown Valley Parkway, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677. Special meetings are scheduled on an as-needed basis.

2. How can I get an item on the agenda?

Call the City Clerk at (949) 362-4300 for information, or write a letter to the Mayor and City Council at City Hall, 30111 Crown Valley Parkway, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677.

3. How can I get on the mailing list for City Council Agendas and Minutes?

Minutes and Agendas are available on the City’s website or by calling the City Clerk’s office at (949)362-4300. You may also register on the City’s website to receive City Council Agendas via email.

4. Are the City Council Meetings Televised?

Laguna Niguel City Council meetings are broadcast live the evening of the meeting on Cox Cable Channel 853, and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99. The meetings are rebroadcast at 12 noon the day following the meeting and are also available on the City's YouTube Channel. www.Youtube.com/cityoflagunaniguel

5. How do I request or review public records?

The City Clerk is the custodian of City records and handles all public record requests. Contact the City Clerk’s office at (949) 362-4300.

6. How can I receive visitor/business/general information about the City of Laguna Niguel?

Please call the Laguna Niguel Chamber of Commerce at (949) 363-0136 or write them at 30111 Crown Valley Parkway, Suite A, Laguna Niguel, CA, 92677.

7. Who are the City’s State and Federal Elected Representatives?

United States Congress: Dana Rohrabacher 48th District, (714) 960-6483

United States Senate: Diane Feinstein, (415) 393-0707

United States Senate: Barbara Boxer, (415) 403-0300

State Senate: Pat Bates 33rd District, (916) 651-4036

State Assembly: William Brough, 73rd District, 916-319-2073

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1. Do you accept online submittals?

Yes, Building and Safety accepts online submittals for residential solar, HVAC systems, re-pipes, reroofs, retrofit windows/doors and electrical panel upgrades. Please follow the link here to the City of Laguna Niguel eTrakit online permitting system for online submittals. 

2. What is the turnaround time for building permit plan check review?

Plan check review for building permits take a total of 10 business days for first submittals, resubmittals take a total of 5 business days.

3. How do I schedule a building inspection?

Building inspections can be scheduled via our online permitting system here, or call (949) 362-4381. The inspections schedule is updated daily at 8a.m. and can be viewed here. If you need to cancel or reschedule a same day inspection, please call (949) 362-4334.

4. Does the City of Laguna Niguel have copies of my original home plans?

If your home was built after city incorporation (1989), it is possible that the city of Laguna Niguel has original copies of your original home plans. Please send original home plan requests to the Building Division via email at BPermit@cityoflagunaniguel.org.

5. What are the hours for construction noise?

7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday. No construction noise is permitted on Sundays or Federal Holidays.  Complaints can be submitted to code@cityoflagunaniguel.org

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1. My neighbor’s dogs bark all the time, can the city assist?

The City of Laguna Niguel contracts with Mission Viejo Animal Services.  Dog barking complaints can be reported to (949) 470-3045.

2. What are the hours for construction noise?

7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday. No construction noise is permitted on Sundays or Federal Holidays.  Complaints can be submitted to code@cityoflagunaniguel.org

3. My neighbor is doing construction and I do not think they have a permit.

Please email the location of the construction to code@cityoflagunaniguel.org

4. My neighbor planted a tree that blocks my view.

The City of Laguna Niguel does not have a view protection ordinance.  Please consult with your HOA for possible CC&R protections.

5. My neighbor’s tree is leaning over my fence, can Code Compliance help?

This would be considered a private nuisance issue between the two parties that Code Compliance is unable able to assist with.

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1. What are objective development and design standards?

Objective development and design standards are intended to make the requirements that apply to certain eligible residential projects more predictable and easier to interpret for all stakeholders, including decision-makers, staff, applicants, and members of the public. The purpose of objective standards is for applicants to know beforehand what requirements apply to a proposed development and for the applicant to be able to design a project that meets those requirements before submittal. Objective development and design standards are defined in Government Code Sections 65913.4 and 66300(a)(7) as standards that “involve no personal or subjective judgment by a public official and are uniformly verifiable by reference to an external and uniform benchmark or criterion available and knowable by both the development applicant or proponent and the public official before submittal.”

Objective standards may include portions of the General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, applicable Specific Plan or Overlay Zone, Building Code, subdivision and landscaping requirements, and other land development and safety regulations.

2. Which projects are eligible for streamlined ministerial review?

In the City of Laguna Niguel, projects eligible for streamlined ministerial review are primarily new multifamily and mixed-use residential developments with an affordability component. These projects must meet specific criteria as outlined by applicable State laws, such as Senate Bill 35, which may include location requirements, specified affordability levels, and/or prevailing wage. If a project is not mandated by State law to be exclusively reviewed against objective standards, it will be subject to the City’s discretionary design review process. We advise applicants to consult the California Government Code and applicable State laws to confirm eligibility for streamlined review. Failure to meet any of the criteria will require the project to undergo the standard discretionary process.

3. How do I submit a project that qualifies for streamlined ministerial review?

Applicants are advised to first consult with the Planning Division to ensure they are aware of all relevant objective standards. Applicants should also cite which State housing law applies to the project to allow staff to confirm eligibility requirements that are applicable to qualifying housing projects under streamlined ministerial review. Following the initial consultation, applicants should submit their construction drawings to the Building Division. During the plan check process, a Planner will be assigned to review the plans for compliance with the City of Laguna Niguel’s objective standards, including the Objective Development and Design Standards Manual and Zoning Code. This process is designed to expedite the approval of projects that meet the city’s objective criteria.

4. How does the Manual affect existing objective standards?

The Objective Development and Design Standards (ODDS) Manual only applies to qualifying residential projects that can only be reviewed for compliance with objective standards. The Manual adds to our existing standards within the Laguna Niguel Zoning Code – they do not remove or modify existing objective standards. Development standards, such as density requirements (number of dwelling units per acre), building height restrictions, site/lot coverage, and Floor Area Ratio (amount of building square footage in proportion to site/lot square footage) still apply as required by the City’s General Plan, Zoning Code, Building Code, or Specific Plan (if applicable).  

5. What if a project does not comply with the Manual?

If a qualifying project is reviewed under objective standards, it must comply with ALL objective standards, including the Objective Design Standards, unless the project is eligible to request a waiver of certain standards*. If a project applicant does not wish to comply with the Objective Design Standards, they may apply for Site Plan and Architectural Review, which is a discretionary review process.

*Note: Housing projects that qualify for State Density Bonus are eligible for incentives, concessions, and waivers to/of applicable development standards if they can demonstrate that the proposed housing project could not be developed at the allowed density (units per acre) due to the cost of complying with applicable development standards. Requests for incentives, concessions, and waivers are reviewed by City staff during the required project review process.

6. Are developers required to follow a set design style as per the Manual?

No, the Manual serves as a framework rather than a set of strict rules. It offers a range of architectural styles that are already present in Laguna Niguel, giving developers the flexibility to align their projects with the existing local character. The Manual also features a selection of decorative elements and details that can be mixed and matched, depending on the chosen architectural style. Additionally, it includes a curated list of acceptable materials and design features, enabling developers to tailor their projects to the unique context and environment of the site.

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1. What land uses are allowed on my property?

The zoning ordinance outlines the type of uses permitted in various locations throughout the city. A list of permitted uses (by right or conditionally) for each zoning designation is located within the zoning ordinance.

2. Can I operate a business out of my home?

To operate a business out of your home, a home occupation permit is required. Please review Section 9-1-35.10 – Home Occupations – in the Laguna Niguel Municipal Code for standards and requirements. 

3. Where can I get a copy of the Laguna Niguel Zoning Code?

View the City of Laguna Niguel Municipal Code.

4. How do I find out the applicable zoning and General Plan land use designation for a property?

Zoning and General Plan land use designations vary throughout the city. To find out the designations for a property, please refer to the Zoning map and General Plan map.

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1. What services are provided by Cox Communications?

Cox Communications provide cable television, digital telephone, and internet access services to the community of Laguna Niguel.

2. How do I contact Cox Communications?

Cox Communications is located at 29947 Avenida De Las Banderas, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688. Telephone: (949) 240-2020. You may also contact them online at http://www.cox.com.

3. Where can I pay my Cox Communication bill?

Cox Communications has a payment office in its store located at 28950 Golden Lantern, Laguna Niguel at the corner of Golden Lantern and Crown Valley Parkway. Store hours are: Monday-Saturday, 9:00am to 8:00pm. Sunday 11:00am to 5:00pm. For more information, call (949) 546-1200.

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1. How do I report a crime?

In the event of an emergency, please dial 911. For non-emergency situations, please contact Sheriff’s dispatch at (949) 770-6011 to report a crime.

2. How can I obtain crime information by neighborhood?

Crime information by neighborhood may be accessed at the Orange County Sheriff’s Department website at http://www.ocsd.org by clicking on Crime Statistics.

3. What type of crime prevention programs are available in Laguna Niguel?

Crime prevention programs include Business Watch, Neighborhood Watch, Residential Security Tips, Vacation Home Checks and Watch Mail. For more information, please contact our Crime Prevention Specialist, Kimberly Sawyer at (949) 362-4305 or visit our Police Services web page.

4. Is there a crime prevention program specific to businesses?

Yes. The City’s Business Watch, is a crime prevention program that is specifically focused on the Laguna Niguel business community. Participation in the program is free and can be scheduled by calling Police Servies at (949) 362-4305. Additional information on our Business Watch program can be obtained by visiting our Business Watch web page.

5. How do I obtain a copy of a crime, incident or traffic report?

Copies of crime, incident or traffic reports can be obtained from the Sheriff’s Support Services Office by calling (714) 834-6454. There is a copying charge for this service.

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1. When and Where Does the City Council Meet?

The City Council meets for their regular meetings on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Laguna Niguel City Hall Council Chambers, 30111 Crown Valley Parkway.  Special meetings are scheduled on an as-needed basis.

If you are unable to attend, City Council meetings are broadcast live the evening of the meeting on Cox Cable Channel 853 and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99. The meetings are rebroadcast at 12 noon the day following the meeting and are also available on the City's YouTube Channel. www.Youtube.com/cityoflagunaniguel.

2. How Do I Stay Informed of City Matters?

The City of Laguna Niguel offers a number of ways for the public to keep up-to-date with City projects and activities.  You can sign up for Notify Me and select from any one of our categories to receive timely emails or text messages. We're also on various social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Nextdoor. 

3. How Do I Report Graffiti and Maintenance Issues?

To report maintenance issues associated with graffiti, medians, landscape, streets, lights, parks, trees, and weed abatement, contact Public Works at (949) 362-4337. Visit the Public Works webpage for more information. 

4. When are Elections Held in Laguna Niguel?

Elections for Council Members are held on even-numbered years on the Tuesday following the first Monday in November. The next City election will be held on November 6, 2018.  If you are interested in becoming a candidate, you must first be a registered voter and reside in the City of Laguna Niguel at the time nomination forms are issued to you.  There is no filing fee. 

5. When Do I Need a Building Permit?

The question of when a building permit is required can sometimes be confusing. This is because the codes approach the question from a different perspective. The codes list those items that are not required to have a permit (a much smaller list) rather than those items which are required to have a permit. Please contact Community Development, Business Division, at (949) 362-4360 and ask to speak to a permit technician who will be able to assist you. 

If you need to obtain a building permit, visit theCommunity Development Department Building Counter at City Hall, 30111 Crown Valley Pkwy. from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. 

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1. How do I report graffiti on public and privately owned properties?

If you see graffiti on public property or on private property, including a business, please call the Orange County Sheriff's Department Non-Emergency Dispatch Number at (949) 770-6011 (phone option 1-9-1) or email AGT@cityoflagunaniguel.org. Please include a photo of the graffiti. This will provide Police Services the opportunity to conduct an investigation prior to graffiti removal.

Report Graffiti Online

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1. What is a bike locker?

Bike lockers are enclosed cabinets for bike parking that provide protection from theft, vandalism and inclement weather, and are large enough to store a bike and bike gear. Each locker has a unique lock and key to provide maximum security.

2. Where are bike lockers located?

There are twenty (20) bike lockers located at the Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo Metrolink Station:

• Twelve (12) are located on the west side of the tracks by the parking lot on Forbes Road.
• Eight (8) are located on the east side of the tracks along Camino Capistrano.

3. How do I rent a bike locker at the Metrolink Train Station?

Complete a Bike Locker Rental Agreement form and email it to pwadmin@cityoflagunaniguel.org.  Applicants may also apply in-person by visiting the Public Works Department on the 2^nd floor of City Hall during regular business hours.  For more information, please call 949-362-4337.  

4. What is the cost to rent a bike locker?

For new bike locker rentals, advance payment for three (3) months of rental fees plus a $50 refundable deposit will be collected upon the City’s receipt of a completed Bike Locker Rental Agreement form. The rental fee for bike lockers is $5 per month due before the 1^st of every month. Once you return your bike locker key to the City, then you will be refunded your $50 deposit within sixty (60) days.

5. Can I choose the location for the bike locker?

Yes. Once the City has received your completed bike locker rental agreement and you have made your payment, you will be provided a bike locker map indicating which lockers are available for rent.  You may then select which of the available bike lockers you wish to rent (whether it is on the Forbes Rd side or the Camino Capistrano side of the train tracks). 

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1. When do I need an Encroachment permit?

If you will be using any part of a public street right-of-way for storing materials (such as large dumpster), parking equipment, or conducting any work.

A public right-of-way is defined as any street, road, highway, sidewalk, or easement that is owned, leased, or controlled by the City. 

2. Who can apply?

Private developers, licensed contractors, and utility companies. Residents and HOAs may only apply for dumpster, refuse bin, and temporary moving pod permits. 

3. Do I need an encroachment permit to work on my sidewalk/driveway approach?

Yes. Any work on public right-of-way requires an encroachment permit.

4. A tree fell over in my front yard. Do I need to obtain an Encroachment permit to have it removed?

You only need to obtain an Encroachment permit if removing the tree requires using any part of a public right-of-way, including the sidewalk, to have the tree removed.

A public right-of-way is defined as any street, road, highway, sidewalk, or easement that is owned, leased, or controlled by the City. 

5. I would like to place a moving pod in my driveway. Do I need an Encroachment permit?

No. An encroachment permit is not required for a moving pod placed on private property.

6. Do I need an encroachment permit if I need to place a dumpster on the street?

Yes. An encroachment permit is required for placing a dumpster on a street. An encroachment permit is not required if the container is placed on private property.

7. Can I request a dumpster container from any vendor?

No. The City has a franchise agreement with CR&R, therefore, only dumpster containers from CR&R are authorized on public streets.

8. How do I obtain an encroachment permit?

Encroachment permits can be obtained online by clicking on the link to eTRAKiT. 

For additional information, please call (949) 362-4337 or email pwencroachment@cityoflagunaniguel.org. 

Please allow 48 hours to process the payment and issue the Encroachment permit. 

9. How much does it cost to obtain an Encroachment permit?

A typical Encroachment permit will cost $150.00 per working day. This covers administrative costs of the permit as well as any required inspections. 

The placement of a dumpster, refuse bin, or temporary moving pod is $75.00. 

Please find a complete list of Encroachment permit fees and any required deposits on the General Fee Schedule for Public Works Encroachment permits.  

10. Can I submit the encroachment permit application online?

Yes. Submitting an online application via eTRAKiT is preferred, although in person applications are also accepted at the Public Works Department located on the 2^nd floor of City Hall.

11. Can I pay encroachment permit fees online?

Yes. Payments for permit fees are processed online via eTRAKiT. Please note that a credit card service fee of 2.35% will be applied to process payments.

12. How long does it take to obtain an Encroachment permit?

Encroachment permit application reviews may take up to 10 working days. Any requests for an emergency encroachment permit will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. 

13. What should I include in my Encroachment permit application?

The application and all supporting documents:

1. Copies of construction plans (REQUIRED FOR ALL NEW IMPROVEMENTS)
2. Traffic control plans
3. Construction schedules
4. Exhibits and/or sketches of work to be performed
5. Certificate of Insurance and Additional Insured Endorsement for the City
6. A Surety Bond (if required)

14. My Encroachment permit application has been approved. What happens next?

Once the application and supporting documents are approved by Public Works, fees and/or deposits must be submitted to the Public Works Department via eTRAKiT prior to issuance of the permit. 

Upon receipt of the payment for the required fees and/or deposits, the Public Works Department will issue the encroachment permit to the Applicant.

15. When may I commence work?

Upon issuance of the approved Encroachment permit, please submit the Inspection Request via eTRAKiT to Public Works at least 48 Hours (2 Working Days) prior to commencing the permitted work.  

16. Can I request PW inspections online or by phone?

The City prefers that you submit your inspection requests online via eTRAKIT, however, inspections may also be submitted by phone.

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1. Can I request permit parking for my community?

Yes, per Municipal Code Sec. 7-4-607, residents may request permit parking to be established in their community by petitioning the City. For more information, please call 949-362-4337.

2. How do I petition for permit parking in my community?

Residents seeking to establish permit parking in their community, must first submit a letter requesting permit parking and submit it to traffic@cityoflagunaniguel.org. The City will then provide Resident with a petition form. Only a City provided petition form will be accepted for consideration of establishing a permit parking district.

3. What happens after submitting a petition for permit parking?

The City will conduct several overnight parking studies over the course of 3-4 weeks to assess the need for permit parking in the petitioned community. These visits are typically between the hours of 12:00 AM and 3:00 AM when vehicles are parked for the night.  

4. How long does the petition process take?

It typically takes a minimum of 3-4 months from the receipt of a petition, assessment of need, approval of implementation, to installing the permit parking signs.

5. I'm new to the area, I sold my car, or I need a replacement permit.

You will need to complete a permit parking request form, provide proof of residency and provide proof that your vehicle(s) is registered to a property within the permit parking district to obtain a permit parking decal.  

• A copy of the permit parking request form is available on the City’s website (under How Do I? Apply For) and, email your completed form and the required documentation to pwadmin@cityoflagunaniguel.org. Residents may also apply in-person by visiting the Public Works Department on the 2^nd floor of City Hall during regular business hours. For more information, call 949-362-4337.
• If a replacement decal is issued, the old permit parking decal will be voided from the City’s permit parking database and will no longer be useable.
• If you sold your car, you must notify the City and apply for a new parking permit decal for any new vehicle you may have purchased by submitting a permit parking request form and providing proof that your new vehicle is registered to a property within the permit parking district. 
  • The permit parking decal that had been issued for the sold car will be voided from the City’s permit parking database and will no longer be useable.

6. What is the cost for a permit?

There is no parking permit or decal fee, the program is free to Residents. The City covers the administrative and enforcement costs to implement and maintain the program.

7. Will I receive a ticket if I don't have a permit?

If you do not have a permit parking decal issued by the City and park in a community during the permit parking only hours shown on the posted signs, you may be ticketed by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.

8. Are guest passes available?

Guest passes are available on a case-by-case basis. However, certain communities do not allow any guest passes. If you need a guest pass or need more information, please call 949-362-4337.

9. The City installed a permit parking sign in front of my house, is it possible for the City to relocate it?

Permit parking signage is installed at 300-foot intervals to provide enforceable notice. The installation locations for signs are pre-determined through the permit parking petition process.  By signing the petition, Residents are made aware of and accept the sign installation locations. The City makes all efforts to install permit parking signage on existing posts or streetlights.

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1. When and how often is my street swept?

Public streets are swept twice per month. The City contracts with Sunset Property Services for sweeping services. Sweeping of public, residential streets takes place during the 2nd and 4th Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

2. When are private streets swept?

If you live on a private street, please contact your association for information regarding your street’s sweeping schedule.

3. What is the City’s Holiday sweeping schedule?

Since your street sweeping day is determined by your trash day, sweeping will be delayed if your trash day or your normal sweeping day falls on or after (but within the week of) Memorial Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.If your trash collection day is moved from a 2nd or 4th Thursday to Friday, the sweeping will take place on the following Monday.

4. What is the rainy day street sweeping schedule?

The City does not sweep on rainy days. Streets will be swept on the next scheduled day.

5. Why did the street sweeper skip my house today?

If the street sweeper skipped your house, it was for one of three reasons: 1) A parked car was blocking the area. Street sweepers require approximately two car lengths to swing out and around a parked car. 2) There was a large pile of debris in the gutter. Large debris piles can hide items that can damage the sweeper and will therefore by avoided. 3) Sweeping was canceled or rescheduled due to rain or a holiday.

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1. Who do I contact to report a streetlight in need of repair in my neighborhood?

If a street light in your neighborhood is in need of repair, please contact your local utility company, San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) at (800) 411-7343 or Southern California Edison (SCE) at (800) 655-4555. For SCE neighborhoods, reports of outages can be made online by completing the Streetlight Outage Form listed below. Streetlight repair can also be reported to City Hall at 362-4300 or via our online reporting system E-Trakit.

Streetlight Outage Form.

2. Who repairs streetlights along private streets?

On private streets, streetlights are privately maintained and you should contact your association’s property manager.

3. I noticed that a streetlight is blinking, should I call for repair?

Yes. Please report blinking streetlights.

4. What information should I provide when calling in for streetlight repair?

State your name and daytime telephone number. Identify the location of the light, for example “the light is located at the intersection of FIRST and MAIN” or “across from 12345 Main Street” or “100 feet south of 34567 First Street”. Please state whether or not the light is flickering or if it flickered prior to the outage.

5. How long does it take for a streetlight to be repaired?

The normal turn around time for streetlight repair is 5-10 working days. Stormy weather conditions will delay the lead-time for streetlight repair.

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1. What is Traffic Signal Coordination?

The basic goal of traffic signal coordination is to take a group of fairly closely spaced vehicles (called a platoon) traveling in the same direction through a series of intersections at a speed at/near the speed limit. The “optimal progression speed” never exceeds the speed limit, but is usually set within 5 M.P.H. of the speed limit.

2. What is the best way/method for getting through the most signals without stopping?

Keep your speed at or slightly below the speed limit and you will have a far better chance of making most of the lights. If you drive too slow or too fast, you will be outside the green band (green band - is about a 30 second window that covers the cars in the platoon – the first car is at the one (1) second mark and the last car in the group is at the thirty (30) second mark).

3. Even if I drive at the speed limit I don’t seem to make it through all the lights. Why?

Many people refer to old downtown areas in large cities where there are one-way streets spaced exactly at ¼ mile intervals as an example of where you can drive a set speed and get through every light. This is the simplest form of coordination. Throw in unevenly spaced signals, variations in signals (some have protected left turns some do not) long pedestrians times (many times coordination is based on no pedestrian crossings – when they occur it throws the signals out of step) and other conditions and you can see why modern streets systems do not lend themselves to “perfect coordination.”

4. Which traffic signals are coordinated?

Generally, only the ones on the major streets that are designed to carry large volumes of traffic over longer distances are part of a coordinated system. In Laguna Niguel, this includes Alicia Parkway, Crown Valley Parkway and Moulton/Golden Lantern and Pacific Park Drive.

5. When are they coordinated?

This can vary depending on the street and other traffic factors, but generally they are always coordinated weekdays in the morning and afternoon peak periods. With some of the more recent coordination timing updates, we have now included some mid-day coordination and even some Saturday coordination.

6. Are signals coordinated in both directions?

The updated coordination uses a specialty program known as SYNCRO which tries to coordinate in both directions, but in reality coordination generally favors the primary direction that is carrying the highest percentage of the volume. Since much of the traffic on our major arterials is very directional during the am and pm peak, we generally see better coordination in these directions. For example, northbound Moulton Parkway/Golden Lantern has about 70% of the traffic going northbound in the morning and about 70% going southbound in the afternoon. For those streets where we use mid-day or Saturday coordination, the volumes are more balanced and so we have tried to provide more balance in the coordination.

7. Does coordination “break” at major intersections because the cross street volume is also very high?

Generally, coordination can continue through major intersections, but sometimes there is a break along a street if there is a large distance between signalized intersections. Long distances between signals usually mean that the platoon starts to spread out too much and can no longer be seen as a defined group of cars. Cars are then gathered back into a group at the next signal (usually at a red light) and then sent out as a group again.

8. Sometimes I have to wait almost 1-½ minutes (but can seem like 5 minutes) to get a green on a side street or a left turn even when there seems to gaps in traffic. Why?

The coordination for the major streets is “time based”. What this means is that there is no constant video detection or a person watching traffic in a room controlling traffic. Basically, there are calculations made taking into account distance, speed and direction and then the controllers at each location turn the coordinated direction green in sequence as the platoon is supposed to arrive.

For time based systems there is a background cycle length of usually 120 seconds. During this 2 minute time frame every movement is assigned a specific amount of maximum time and the movements are served in a specific fixed order. So if you picture a clock with two minutes there is only one time in that 2 minute period where the controller will “look” at the side streets and left turns to see if there are any vehicles waiting. If so, then it will give them a green. If not, then it will give that extra green time to the coordinated movements and “look” at the next movement in the sequence. So if you are the first car at a side street or left turn and you happen to get there just after the controller “looks” to see if there was anyone there (and there wasn’t one second before you got there), then it will not look again for about 2 minutes. This can lead to the belief that the signal is not working properly.

Coordination is designed to move large groups of vehicles over long distances with minimal stops. This helps make up for the “extra” time you might have spent waiting on the side street and if you stay on that street for a reasonable amount of time, you will actually be ahead time-wise, gas-wise, frustration-wise and vehicle wear and tear-wise.

9. Why don’t you coordinate all the time?

The highest benefit from coordination comes when large groups of cars travel in the same direction in a short time frame over relatively long distances (think commuters not shoppers). During the non-peak times, there are fewer cars and shorter trips and therefore less benefit from coordination to the overall driving public (in fact so much less in some cases that coordination could actually result in longer drive times on average for the drivers on the road during that time). In addition, drivers are less willing to accept (have less patience for) the side street and left turn delays that are part of coordination during quieter/lower volume times of the day.

10. How do the signals operate when you don’t coordinate?

When signals are not running as part of a coordinated system, they are set to run in a “free mode”. When this happens, each intersection operates independently and responds to the individual traffic demands at the intersection. The signal will rest in green for the major street if there is no other activity at the intersection. This operation is actually the most efficient when there is low volume, because it can minimize delays for minor movements and quickly get back to the green for the major street.

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1. Where can I obtain information on billing for residential and commercial trash service?

CR&R provides residential and commercial trash service under a franchise agreement with the City of Laguna Niguel. For information, please contact CR&R at (877) 728-0446. CR&R

2. I need a special trash pickup for large items, who do I call?

Call CR&R's Customer Service at (877) 728-0446. Every residential customer is entitled to two “bulky item” (refrigerators, sofa, mattress or water heater) pickups per year.

3. What is the Holiday trash pickup schedule for Laguna Niguel?

If your trash pickup day falls on or after (but within the week of) New Year’s Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, Memorial Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, your pickup will be delayed by one day. Please note that your street sweeping service will also be delayed by one day during these holiday weeks.

4. Where can I dispose of old paint, batteries, pesticides, cleaners, solvents, and other household hazardous waste?

The County of Orange Collection Centers located at 32250 La Pata Avenue in San Juan Capistrano, accept household hazardous waste such as old paint, solvents, etc., at no cost. The Collection Centers are open Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. The centers are closed on rainy days, Christmas, New Years, Thanksgiving and Independence Day. For more information, please call (714) 834-6752 or visit http://www.oclandfills.com.

5. Where can I take my used oil to be recycled?

There are two State Certified Used Oil Collection Centers in Laguna that accept used motor oil: Econo Lube N’ Tube, 27912 Forbes Road (949) 364-5833 and Laguna Niguel Service Center, 26042 Cape Drive (949) 582-2191.

6. I do not have curbside recycling, where can I go to dispose of recyclable materials?

The State Department of Conservation has established recycling zones which can be accessed through their web site (see link). A staffed recycling center is located in Aliso Viejo at Tomra Pacific Inc, 26901 Aliso Creek Rd, Aliso Viejo CA 92656. CalRecycle

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1. What is Vector Control?

Vector Control is a County service that assists residents with issues pertaining to insects, rodents, or other animals that may present a public health problem. The Orange County Vector Control Agency handles all calls regarding flies, rats and mosquito infestations.

2. How do I contact Vector Control?

Orange County Vector Control can be reached at (714) 971-2421 or online via their website at http://www.ocvcd.org.

3. Who do I call regarding a swarm of bees?

If you observe a person being attacked by bees, call 911 immediately. To remove bees from your private property, please contact a local pest control company. For bees on public property, please call our Public Works Department at (949) 362-4337.

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1. Who do I contact regarding my water and sewer services?

Moulton Niguel Water District provides the community of Laguna Niguel with water and sewer services. Their office is located at 27500 La Paz Road and can be reached by calling (949) 831-2500 or visit their website at http://www.mnwd.com.

2. Who operates the sewer reclamation facility on La Paz Road by the Regional Park?

This facility is operated by SOCWA (South Orange County Wastewater Authority). For information regarding the water reclamation plant, please call (949) 361-3228 or visit their website at http://www.socwa.com.