LA Targets ‘Van Lords’ Renting RVs On City Streets

LOS ANGELES, CA — A Los Angeles City Council committee Tuesday rescheduled discussion of a motion targeting recreational-vehicle rental operations, as elected officials continue efforts to crack down on so-called "van lords."

The five-member Homelessness and Health Committee was scheduled Tuesday to hear reports and consider a draft ordinance that would amend Municipal Code Section 80.73.1, which prohibits reserving a street, parking space or other public area for business activities involving new and used vehicles. Councilwoman Ysabel Jurado, chair of the committee, requested the matter be continued for a future meeting.

The current code does not specifically address RVs. The proposed amendment would include RVs among the vehicles prohibited from conducting business in public rights-of-way and affirm that RV lessors must follow applicable state health-and-safety and vehicle codes.

The ordinance would define a "recreational vehicle," specify unlawful uses and outline violations of the municipal code. It would establish fines starting at $500 and increasing to as much as $1,000.

The City Council has also directed the Los Angeles Police Department and other relevant city departments to develop enforcement stages, outreach coordination and measures to protect victims.

A February LAPD report found that enforcement against van lords presents unique and significant challenges, particularly the evidentiary burden required to build a prosecutable case.

Under the municipal code, officers must establish proof of a rental or lease arrangement, such as a written or digital contract, payment records or physical evidence including a key or other means of access. In many cases, people who are being exploited lack formal documentation, leaving officers to rely primarily on victim statements, according to the report.

Victim cooperation also can be difficult because people living in unlawfully rented RVs may fear retaliation, distrust law enforcement or worry about losing their only shelter, the report found. Establishing a clear link between suspects and the vehicles they rent is also a "resource-intensive challenge," according to the department.

LAPD officials recommended outreach through community meetings and online platforms to help potential victims understand their legal protections and available support resources.

The committee is also expected to hear from the LAPD and other city officials about enforcement data.

City News Service