Eric Richardson [Flickr]

DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES — A week ago I posted about the odd treehouse at City Hall East. Well, now it's gone. Yesterday they removed the building from atop the scaffolding and today's LA Times reports it's a matter of not having the right permits.

MOCA spokesman John Hindman said city officials may have been confused over whether the living room structure constituted art or a dwelling structure.

City Councilwoman Jan Perry, who worked with former Councilwoman Cindy Miscikowski to secure the city flagpole for MOCA's use, said she learned Tuesday morning that the tower was built without permits.

"Maybe the artist didn't know better," Perry said. "Once the Building and Safety folks are satisfied, I'll work with them to expedite its return."

Hopefully the fact that the scaffolding stayed means the piece will be making its return soon. I think it's a cool concept.