A legal showdown brews the large treehouse of Sherman Oaks, known for its whimsical designs inspired by the “Simpsons” episode.
Built 24 years ago by former producer of the beloved animated series, Rick Polizzi, The Treehouse has become a staple and gathering place for the neighborhood children’s community.
But despite its popularity with neighborhood children, legal challenges to permit and zoning by the City of Los Angeles threaten the landmark’s future.
The Sherman Oaks homeowner is in conflict with the city of Los Angeles above his huge treehouse. Officials say it needs to be demolished. (KTLA) The Sherman Oaks homeowner is in conflict with the city of Los Angeles over his huge treehouse. (KTLA) The Sherman Oaks homeowner is in conflict with the city of Los Angeles over his huge treehouse. (KTLA)
“They said I didn’t have the proper permission, but I’m trying to legalize the treehouse forever,” Polizzi said. “The city just doesn’t have that.”
The legal issue began when a neighbor complained about the growing attention that the Treehouse painted.
Polizzi said the headache finally convinced him to throw a towel.
“We went last month before the exam. We were very frustrated. We couldn’t speak up,” Polizzi said. “When we left, I said, ‘I’m not back to this trial. We’ll demolish it and let the case be dismissed.’ ”
Polizzi said unofficial farewell to Treehouse on February 22, 2025 (KTLA)
The family said an unofficial farewell to the Treehouse on Saturday, preparing for the possibility of demolition this week. But as of Tuesday, it’s still standing.
Polizzi tells KTLA that his local city councillor reached out to express his interest in saving the structure, but he remains skeptical. “They told me the same thing last year, but nothing came,” he said.
When the fate of the Treehouse rests on balance, its future relies on the same bureaucracy that seeks to demolish it, so Polizzi is a culture of the city leadership that he has roots in. I hope to recognize the Treehouse for its contribution.
“This is a town built on creativity. It embraces it. It seems like you want to maintain something like this,” Polizzi said.
Discussions with the city to save the treehouse remain ongoing.
Source link
