Just moved to Lakewood or planning your move soon? Getting your utilities on, understanding permits, and knowing who to call can save you time and stress. You want a simple, local guide that helps you start strong in your new home. This post breaks down the essentials for Lakewood residents, from water and trash to building permits and safety contacts. Let’s dive in.
Lakewood contacts to save
- City Hall: 5050 Clark Ave., Lakewood, CA 90712
- Main line: 562-866-9771
- Building & Planning email: [email protected]
- Start here for questions, forms, or service issues through the City’s main contact page: City of Lakewood Contact Us
Water service and billing
Most Lakewood addresses are served by the City’s municipal water utility. About 6,000 households east of the San Gabriel River, often around the 90715 ZIP, are served by Golden State Water. The City’s new resident pages explain how to check your address and start service. For details on providers and setup, use the City guide for Lakewood utility services.
- Start or transfer service through City Hall or the WaterSmart portal when your address is in the City service area.
- If your home is in the Golden State Water area, contact that provider to open an account.
- Pay your City water and trash bill online, by phone, or by mail through the City’s Pay Water or Trash Bill page.
- Tip: Request a final read from the seller and confirm any past due balances before closing.
Electric and gas setup
Southern California Edison provides electricity in Lakewood. Southern California Gas Company provides natural gas. The City’s utility setup page lists providers and quick-start steps for new residents. For a one-stop overview, see Setting up basic utilities.
- Contact SCE in advance to start service, transfer the account, or report an outage. If the home has solar, ask about net metering and interconnection.
- For bill help or discounted rates, SCE offers income-qualified programs such as CARE and FERA. Learn more on SCE’s CARE/FERA programs page.
Trash, recycling and bulky items
Lakewood contracts with EDCO for weekly curbside trash, recycling, and green-waste. You can request new carts, schedule bulky-item pickup, and check holiday schedules through the City’s trash and recycling hub. Get the latest on service options at Trash, recycling and hazardous waste.
- Most homes use a three-cart system. Extra carts are available for a fee.
- Bulky-item pickups are available with limits. Schedule in advance.
- Hazardous waste is handled through County programs. Keep paint, chemicals, and electronics out of carts.
Sewer basics
Sewer service in Lakewood can vary by location. Some areas are served directly by the City, and others by county and regional agencies. Your property owner is usually responsible for the private sewer lateral that connects the home to the main line.
- Before closing, ask for the sewer provider and any service history.
- If you have a backup, call your known sewer provider or the City for guidance.
- Not sure who serves your address? Call City Hall or use the City’s contact page for help.
Internet, phone and mail
Spectrum, AT&T, and Frontier serve different parts of Lakewood. Availability and speeds vary by exact address. Check coverage and book install appointments early to avoid delays. For mail, set up USPS forwarding before your move and confirm any hold or delivery instructions with your parcel carriers.
Permits for home projects
If you plan upgrades, Lakewood’s Building & Planning team can tell you what needs a permit and how to schedule inspections. Many common projects require permits, including re-roofing, HVAC or water heater replacements, electrical panel upgrades, window swaps, and most additions.
- Start with the City’s Building Permits page for forms and inspection steps.
- Some projects need Planning review before Building plan check. The City outlines the process and submittals.
- Work in the public right of way, like driveway approaches or curb cuts, typically needs an encroachment permit.
ADUs in Lakewood
Lakewood supports Accessory Dwelling Units with a program designed to streamline approvals. The City offers a pre-approved plan program that can simplify your design and plan check.
- Review the City’s ADU Pre-Approved Program for options, fees to expect, and submittal steps.
- ADU rules are shaped by state law, so confirm current requirements with the City before you design or buy.
Unpermitted work and seller disclosures
California law requires honest and complete seller disclosures. If you are reselling within 18 months, a 2024 law (AB 968) requires you to disclose additions or alterations done by a contractor and provide copies of permits if available. Review the text of AB 968 and talk with your agent about the Transfer Disclosure Statement.
- Buyers should verify permits for additions, pools, and system upgrades and order thorough inspections.
- Unpermitted work can affect lending, insurance, and closing timelines.
Hire licensed contractors
Protect your project and your home by hiring licensed and insured contractors. Check license status, workers’ comp, and complaint history before you sign. Verify credentials on the Contractors State License Board site.
- Get at least three written bids and clear scopes of work.
- Keep all permits, inspection cards, and final approvals for your records and future resale.
City services and safety
Law enforcement is provided through the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Lakewood Station. For non-emergencies call (562) 623-3500. For fire and medical response, Lakewood is served by the Los Angeles County Fire Department. For emergencies call 911.
- Street sweeping, stormwater rules, and missed pickups are handled by Public Works. Call City Hall for schedules and service.
- Be cautious with door-to-door “utility worker” visits. The City warns that legitimate utility employees carry ID and do not collect cash at the door. When in doubt, call the utility or the Sheriff’s Station.
Quick move-in checklists
Buyer checklist
- Confirm your water and sewer provider and request a final read at closing.
- Ask the seller for permits and contractor info for recent work and additions.
- Check for solar panels or EV equipment and contact SCE if needed.
- Verify your trash day and set up bulky pickup if you are downsizing items.
Seller checklist
- Gather permits and contractor details for work completed in the last 18 months.
- Schedule final reads and share utility setup instructions with the buyer.
- Confirm trash service and bulky pickup for move-out items.
You deserve a smooth start in your new Lakewood home. If you want local guidance on timing your move, reading disclosures, or planning value-boosting upgrades, reach out. As your nearby Long Beach neighbor and advocate, DK Realty Grp is here to help you get settled with confidence.
FAQs
How do I find my water provider in Lakewood?
- Use the City’s utility guide to see if your address is served by Lakewood or Golden State Water, or call City Hall for help identifying your provider.
Who picks up trash and bulky items in Lakewood?
- Lakewood contracts with EDCO for weekly trash, recycling, and green-waste service, and you can schedule bulky-item pickups through the City’s service hub.
Do I need a permit to replace an HVAC or water heater?
- Yes, replacements like HVAC and water heaters typically require permits and inspections; start with the City’s Building Permits page or contact Building & Safety.
What if a previous owner did unpermitted work?
- Disclose what you know during a sale and ask the City about options to legalize work; buyers should verify permits and consult their agent on risks and next steps.
How can I lower my electric bill if I qualify for assistance?
- Ask Southern California Edison about income-based programs such as CARE and FERA that can reduce monthly bills for eligible households.
Who provides police and fire services in Lakewood?
- Law enforcement is through the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Lakewood Station for non-emergencies, and fire and EMS are provided by the Los Angeles County Fire Department; call 911 for emergencies.
