Board of Police Commissioners report and City Attorney report and draft ordinance relative to prohibiting the renting, leasing, or selling of recreational vehicles in the public right-of-way, and updating the fines and penalties. (This item was referred to the Public Works Committee and Transportation Committee.)

The City Council is advancing an ordinance to amend the Los Angeles Municipal Code (LAMC) to prohibit the renting, leasing, or selling of recreational vehicles (RVs) in the public right-of-way by "Operators" (individuals or entities conducting such business). This measure aims to combat "vanlords" who exploit vulnerable individuals, often those experiencing homelessness, by renting out RVs in unsafe and unsanitary conditions.

Key Provisions of the Draft Ordinance:

• Expanded Prohibition: Amends LAMC Section 80.73.1 to explicitly include RVs in the types of vehicles an Operator is prohibited from parking, storing, or leaving in the public right-of-way during business operations.
• Escalating Civil Penalties: Updates LAMC Section 89.60 with fines for violations of Section 80.73.1:
  • First Violation: $500
  • Second Violation (within 12 months): $750
  • Third and Subsequent Violations (within 12 months): $1,000
  • Each day of violation constitutes a separate offense.
• Criminal Penalties: Violations may also be prosecuted as a misdemeanor, subject to penalties authorized by LAMC Section 11.00(m).

LAPD Enforcement Strategy:

• The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) will implement a multi-stage process: reporting (anonymous tips/referrals), investigation (victim statements, ownership records), outreach and referral (connecting affected residents with interim housing, shelter, health services, and legal aid before enforcement), enforcement (citations/arrests), and vehicle impoundment.
• Enforcement will be coordinated with the City Administrative Officer (CAO) and Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) to ensure services are offered to impacted individuals. Educational materials will be developed to inform potential victims of risks and available support.

This ordinance directly impacts unhoused residents who rent RVs, aiming to protect them from exploitation and unsafe living conditions, but also potentially removing a form of shelter. For housed residents and communities, it addresses significant concerns regarding public safety, sanitation, crime, and parking issues associated with illegally rented RVs on city streets.

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