Requests for permission to perform work outside established construction work hours may be considered on a case-by-case basis by the City Manager. Please contact the Code Compliance Division for additional information at (760) 776-6360 or by email at codehotline@palmdesert.gov.

Property Maintenance Hours (PMC §9.24.075)

• Allowed: Monday–Sunday, 7:00 am – 5:30 pm,
• Not Allowed: Government holidays
• Golf & Tennis Facilities (except blowers): 5:30 am – 7:00 pm, daily
• Equipment that creates a public nuisance may still be subject to enforcement, even during permitted hours.
• City maintenance activities are exempt.

 Construction Work Hours (PMC §9.24.070)

• October 1 – April 30
  • Monday–Friday: 7:00 am – 5:30 pm
  • Saturday: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Sunday & Holidays: Not allowed

• May 1 – September 30
  • Monday–Friday: 5:30 am – 7:00 pm
  • Saturday: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Sunday & Holidays: Not allowed

The City of Palm Desert has codes to protect the quality of life in our neighborhoods by regulating the use and maintenance of private property. These codes apply to both residential and commercial properties.

Examples of Code Issues We Handle:

• Trash & debris: Must be removed from property.
• Inoperable vehicles: Must be stored in an enclosed garage.
• Parking: RVs, campers, boats, or trucks may require a permit; vehicles over 10,000 lbs. are not allowed on residential property.
• Home-based businesses: Allowed only if they don’t create noise, traffic, or visible storage; a permit is required.
• Garage sales: Limited to 2 per year (3 days each). Permit required; no signs in the public right-of-way.
• Vacant lots: Must be cleared of dry grass and dead vegetation (fire hazard).
• Property maintenance: Homes must be kept consistent with neighborhood standards.

Not Code Violations
The City cannot act on civil disputes between neighbors, including:

• Trees or plants dropping leaves/debris
• Fence damage caused by vegetation
• Irrigation water running onto a neighbor’s property

These matters must be resolved privately between property owners.

Animal issues
Handled by Riverside County Animal Services. Please contact them at (760) 343-3644. Services include licensing, barking dog complaints, loose animals, and cat trap requests.

All businesses operating within the City of Palm Desert—whether located in a commercial area, a home office, or contracting from outside the city limits—are required to obtain a business license. Regulations and penalties for business licensing are outlined in Palm Desert Municipal Code Chapter 5.04: Business Taxes, Licenses, and Regulations.

To apply for a business license, please visit this page. 

What is a Short-Term Rental?
A privately owned residential dwelling—or portion of one—rented for lodging or sleeping purposes for fewer than 27 consecutive days. This includes single-family homes, condos, duplexes, multi-family units, mobile homes, and similar properties. 

Permits

• A permit is required before advertising or renting
• Apply for or renew a permit by clicking here.
• Application fee: $29 (new and renewals)

Penalties for Operating Without a Permit

• $5,000 fine per day, per violation (advertising or renting without a permit)
• The City may refuse future STR permits for the cited property or owner

Operational Violations & Fines

• 1st citation: $1,000
• 2nd (within 12 months): $3,000
• 3rd (within 12 months): $5,000 + immediate 2-year permit revocation

Examples of Operational Violations

• Exceeding maximum occupancy
• Parking on public streets
• Trash left in public view
• Noise complaints
• Failure to respond within 30 minutes
• Missing permit number in advertisements

The Riverside County Environmental Health Department provides all services related to environmental issues. Some of the services provided include: sewage overflow problems, public swimming pools, and food establishments.

If you need assistance or if you have a question, please call the Code Compliance Division at (760) 346-0611, or Riverside County Environmental Health Department at (760) 863-8287.

If you smell a strong odor or see a lot of dust or smoke in your neighborhood, think of ways to describe the emissions and try to identify their source. Report the problem to the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) by calling 1-800-CUT-SMOG (1-800-288-7664) or using their On-line Complaint System. More information can be found at on the AQMD website. 

Palm Desert residents can register golf carts for street use through the Code Compliance Division.

• Permit cost: $10 (valid for 2 years)
• Appointments: Call to schedule an inspection (next business day service)

How to Get Started

• Install required safety equipment
• Click here to apply for a permit
• Schedule an inspection with Code Compliance
• Once approved, permit will be issued and affixed to the cart’s right rear fender

Requirements

Golf carts must meet State and City safety standards, including:

• Seatbelts for all occupants
• Headlights, brake lights, rear lights, and turn signals
• Mirrors (side and/or rear view)
• Red rear reflectors (CVC 24607)
• Windshield
• Backup buzzer & horn
• Covered passenger compartment
• Unobstructed rear view
• Parking/locking brake

Operation Rules

• Valid driver’s license required
• Follow all traffic laws (no alcohol while driving)
• Max: 4 passengers, all seatbelted (children must use car seats)
• Allowed on public streets 1 hour before sunrise to 1 hour after sunset
• Must carry proof of insurance/financial responsibility

Helpful Tips

• Many carts share standard keys—consider upgrading locks or adding security devices
• Fully charged carts typically travel up to 20 miles; a charge gauge is recommended