About Environmental Health

Environmental Health is a division within the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. The Environmental Health Division is responsible for the enforcement and education of Federal, State, and local laws and regulations relating to environmental factors which affect public health and safety.

The Environmental Health Division is led by the Environmental Health Director and Administrative Unit.
Environmental Health is made up of 5 Branches, each performing different functions and services. The Branches include District Surveillance and Enforcement, Specialized Surveillance and Enforcement, Environmental Protection, Toxicology and Environmental Assessment, and Division Support.
Environmental Health staff is comprised mostly of Environmental Health Specialists (EHSs), commonly known as "Health Inspectors". The State of California mandates that only qualified, trained professionals may perform the duties within the scope of this field. Our staff of professionals have backgrounds in the sciences including chemistry, physics, biology, microbiology, mathematics and environmental health.

Vision

A healthy and sustainable environment for the residents of Los Angeles County.

Our mission

To assess environmental conditions and reduce exposure to health risks; and to educate the public on sources of environmental risk so they are empowered to protect themselves, their families and their communities.

Who We Serve

Los Angeles County residents and visitors
Food industry
Lodging and institutions operators
Water, sewage and solid waste industries
Other public and private industries

Our Branches

District Surveillance & Enforcement

Inspection and enforcement of public health laws at restaurants and markets, public school cafeterias, temporary food facilities at community events, pet food stores, food warehouses, licensed housing and associated swimming pools at apartments and condominiums, theaters, and self-service laundries.

Division Support

Comprised of administrative support programs: Admin. Liaison Unit, Quality Assurance, Industry Engagement, Workforce Development, Program Enforcement, Program Development, Program Planning, Customer Call Center, and Permits & Licensing.

Environmental Protection

Cannabis Compliance and Enforcement, Medical Marijuana, Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention, Cross Connections and Water Pollution Control, Drinking Water, Land Use, Radiation Management, Recreational Waters, and Solid Waste Management.

Specialized Surveillance & Enforcement

Garment Manufacturer, Body Art Practitioners, Body Art Inspections, Jails, Organized Camps, Lodging and Institutions, Mobile Food Vending, Vehicle Inspection, Plan Check, Specialized Food Services, Vector Management, and Wholesale Food & Safety Program.

Toxicology & Environmental Assessment

Composed of physicians, nurses, epidemiologists, analysts, industrial hygienists, environmental health specialists, and community outreach specialists who identify, control and prevent unwanted health effects associated with environmental hazards.

Environmental Health
in Los Angeles County