Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti issued an emergency order on March 23 strengthening protections for residential tenants in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and announced that a moratorium on LADWP shutoffs for non-payment is extended indefinitely.

“Angelenos should be focused on staying healthy, staying safe and staying at home, and I don’t want anyone who’s hurting financially as a result of this virus to be worried about losing their home or basic necessities,” Garcetti said. “If you can afford rent and utilities, then please pay them on time. If you’re struggling during this emergency, we’ll do everything possible to help ease and lift those burdens.”

Garcetti last week issued emergency moratoriums on evictions of residential and commercial tenants in Los Angeles during the emergency if the tenant is able to show an inability to pay rent due to circumstances related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The mayor has extended all previously issued emergency orders to April 19, including previously announced tenant protections.

The order prohibits “no-fault” evictions, which means any eviction for which the notice to terminate tenancy is not based on an alleged fault of the tenant. The order also provides tenant protections against Ellis Act evictions, prohibiting property owners from removing occupied residential units from the rental market while the order is in effect, and 60 days after its expiration.

The mayor stressed that the order does not preclude tenants from their obligation to pay rent.

The order also extends a moratorium on LADWP water and power shut offs through the end of the local emergency period. Residents should pay their utility bills if they are able.

To assist residents and businesses during the emergency, the mayor’s order allows restaurants to sell alcoholic beverages for delivery or takeout. The hours for deliveries and takeout sales are 6 a.m. to 2 a.m., daily.

The order does not waive, suspend or amend any regulations promulgated by the state, including those under the authority of the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control,” Garcetti’s order read. “Alcoholic beverages sold under this order must be sold in containers that are fully sealed in a manner designed to prevent consumption without removal of the lid or cap.”

The order also provides that parking enforcement will be relaxed and an extended grace period will be given to vehicles owned and operated by employees or employers who are engaged in manufacturing and essential healthcare activities.

The order expands upon the “Safer at Home” order that requires Angelenos to remain in their homes, with exemptions for critical tasks such as securing food and health care, safety and medical necessities, and caring for children, elder adults, family, friends and people with disabilities. For information, visit coronavirus.lacity.org.