Rebuilding After the LA Wildfire Fires: A Step-by-Step Guide
Rebuilding after the LA Wildfires involves a structured process to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations. This guide provides a streamlined approach to navigating the rebuilding process efficiently. For the most current updates, consult the official resources linked throughout this document.
1. Palisades Fire Re-Entry Information: Return Home
• Return and Re-Population: Residents are allowed to re-enter all areas previously under evacuation orders. Contractors must provide proof they are working for a resident.
• Curfew: Curfews remain in effect to ensure safety.
• Re-Entry Requirements: Proof of residence is required. Contractors must also show proof of employment for a resident.
2. Debris Removal: Debris Removal
Phase 1: Houseold Hazard Debris Removal (Phase 1)
• Action Required: Property owners do not need to sign up for Phase 1 as the EPA handles the hazardous materials removal.
• Eligibility: Property must pass a Phase 1 hazardous debris inspection and clearance by the EPA before moving to Phase 2.
• Key Link: EPA Wildfire Cleanup
Phase 2: Fire Debris Removal Phase 2 & Fill out Right of Entry (ROE) Form by 3/31/2025
Once Phase 1 clearance is complete, property owners can choose between:
• Opt-In: Participate in the government-managed cleanup through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
• Cost: No cost to property owners.
• Action: Submit the Opt-In Form
• Opt-Out: Property owners may choose to hire a licensed contractor for debris removal at their own cost.
• Costs: Property owners are responsible for any costs exceeding their insurance settlement for debris removal. Check with your insurance policy.
• Action: Submit the Opt-Out Form
• Note: the debris removal process is not a first-come, first-served process. Everyone’s lot will be scheduled for Phase 2 debris removal. To maximize efficiency, contractors schedule their work based on priorities set by the federal government with input from County. But getting your forms in early—and encouraging your neighbors to do so as well—will speed the work in your neighborhood.
• Q&A Debris Clean Up
• Foundation Removal After Fire
• Homeowners must indicate on the ROE form whether they want their foundation removed. The Army Corps of Engineers will also remove chimneys but NOT included in the foundation removal of swimming pools & spas.
• Click Why Remove Fire-Damaged Foundation?
3. Site Assessment and Documentation
• Soil Testing: Confirms absence of contaminants post-debris removal.
• Foundation Inspection: Determines if existing foundation can be reused.
• Documentation: Gather all necessary reports and clearances for permitting.
4. Expedited Permitting Process
• To qualify for expedited permitting, projects must:
• Rebuild in the same location as the lost structure.
• Not exceed 110% of the original structure’s square footage, height, and bulk.
• Be intended for the same use as before.
• Suspends permitting and review requirements under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the California Coastal Act. Governor's Exeutive Order N-4-25
• Application Submission:
• Online: EPIC-LA Portal
• In-Person: Visit a Disaster Recovery Center.
• Required Documents:
• Proof of property ownership.
• Site plans and architectural drawings.
• Debris removal clearance.
• Review Timeline: Initial permit reviews completed within 30 days.
5. Reconstruction
• Hiring Contractors: Select licensed professionals with post-fire rebuilding experience.
• Compliance: Follow updated building codes and regulations.
• Inspections: Required at multiple stages of construction.
6. Additional Considerations
• Non-Expedited Permitting: If criteria are not met, permit approvals may take longer, especially in coastal or hillside areas.
• Coastal Development Permits (CDP)
• Some rebuilds may be exempt if they meet location and size criteria.
• Debris Removal Compliance: Before applying for a rebuild permit, ensure debris removal meets standards set by LA County Building & Safety, Public Health, and Fire Department.
7. Final Steps
• Certificate of Occupancy: Obtain after final inspections.
• Move-In: Once all approvals are complete.
**Key Resources for Rebuilding
1. Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) - LADBS Official Website
2. Debris Removal Information - Debris Removal Update (1/28/2025)
3. EPA Wildfire Cleanup - EPA Wildfire Guidelines
4. California Governor’s Executive Order - Governor’s Order
5. Los Angeles City Planning - LA City Planning
6. LA County Disaster Recovery Center - LA County Recovery Center
7. EPIC-LA (Electronic Permitting & Inspection Center) - EPIC-LA Portal
8. Coastal Development Permits - California Coastal Commission
9. FEMA Wildfire Recovery - FEMA Wildfire Assistance
10. LA County Fire Department - Fire Department Info
11. California State Fire Support - CA Wildfire Support