Submit a Claim for Damages

The Office of the City Clerk accepts claims for damages to person or property via mail or in person.

Carefully read the information and instructions below before you file a claim:

  • Make sure you are filing a claim with the correct jurisdiction. Click here to check the City of Torrance Boundary Map.
  • The entire length of Pacific Coast Highway and Western Ave within City of Torrance boundaries are maintained by Caltrans and also Hawthorne Blvd North of PCH is also Caltrans.
  • Claims for death, injury to person or to personal property must be filed not later than 6 months after the occurrence. (Government Code section 911.2). All other claims for damages must be filed not later than one year after the occurrence. (Government Code section 911.2)

Presentation of a false claim is a felony. (Penal Code section 72)

Instructions

  • Read the entire instructions contained on the Claim for Damages Form(PDF, 200KB).
  • Fill out, sign, and either mail the claim form to the Office of the City Clerk, 3031 Torrance Blvd., Torrance, CA 90503 or deliver in person.
  • For questions about filing your claim, please call the City Clerk’s office (310) 618-2870.

Once your claim is received and filed with the Office of the City Clerk, your claim is routed to the Finance/Risk Management Division for investigation. The claims process is usually completed within 4-6 weeks. You will be notified by a claims investigator of the outcome of the investigation.

For questions about the claims process, please call the Risk Management Division (310) 618-2975.

Submit Your Claim

Step 1.Verify Jurisdiction

Before filing, ensure the incident occurred within Torrance City limits and involves City property. Deadlines: Claims for personal injury or personal property damage must be filed within 6 months of the incident. All other claims (e.g., real property) must be filed within 1 year.

Note: Specific roads like PCH, Western Ave, and Hawthorne Blvd (North of PCH) are maintained by Caltrans, not the City.

Step 2.Download and Complete the Form

You must use the official "Claim for Damages" form(PDF, 200KB). Be as specific as possible regarding the date, time, location, and circumstances of the incident.

Provide a clear description of the damage or injury and the name of any involved City employees, if known.

 

Step 3.File with the City Clerk

Submit your signed, original claim form to the Office of the City Clerk by:

  • Mail: Send to 3031 Torrance Blvd., Torrance, CA 90503.
  • In Person: Visit the City Clerk's office at City Hall during business hours.

Note: Faxed or emailed claims are not accepted by law.

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