Do you have a question about Studio City? Community activist Lisa Sarkin is answering questions about the history, government and problems in our area in this column. She knows who to call, and where to go to get things done. Send your questions to or leave it in the COMMENTS section below. Thanks!
Massage Billboards . . .
Do all those billboards for the $40 massage all go to the same place? Is it in Studio City? I was almost in an accident yesterday because I couldn't see oncoming traffic! Can you tell me why all the signs in my neighborhood advertise massages?—Shawna Passmore
Yes, it is the same shop with those signs. Unfortunately, the owner of Oasis Spa on Laurel Canyon in Studio City, has no regard for the community. He has been asked to remove the signs, but the current law prohibits only unhitched signs.
So when a mobile sign is attached to something with wheels and parked legally, it is allowed. Currently, the Los Angeles City Council and the State of California are revising the mobile billboard law and I hope very soon these signs will be illegal.
Tall Buildings . . . .
Why are there tremendously high buildings around Universal Studios but not in other areas around there? Isn't it all part of Los Angeles or is that because of Burbank? Does Studio City have any say in keeping the height restrictions down if it mars our view of the skyline?—Thanks, Joey Dillus
Hi Joey,
Thank you for your questions. The Universal Studios property is, for the most part, in the County of Los Angeles. None of the property is in Burbank. At the time the really tall buildings were built they were allowed, but now buildings over 45 feet must receive a variance to build higher. Our views are protected by the Sherman Oaks-Studio City-Toluca Lake-Cahuenga Pass Community Plan, which has so far preserved the views.
Hallmark Moving Local
How long ago did move to Studio City and do they ever film in the lot? — Christianne Friedlander
Hallmark has been in Studio City about 20 years. For most of this time, Hallmark was affiliated with CBS, but. The Hallmark building is not a production lot, so filming takes place elsewhere.
Starting next week, I will begin to answer many questions I have received about noise, barking dogs, construction times and days, trash cans and parking issues.
A house (brand new construction) is being built next door to me and is a mansion on a 8,651 sq ft lot. It has been getting higher and higher, above all the telephone wires etc. How can I find out if this is within the height regulations? I called Paul Krekorian's office and they sent me this link: http://clkrep.lacity.org/onlinedocs/2008/08-2332_ord_182048.pdf which makes no sense to me. Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!