LA Wildfire Recovery: Permitting Process & Requirements

COSTA Permitting Process

LA WILDFIRE RECOVERY PERMITTING

LA Wildfire Recovery: Permitting Process & Requirements for Rebuilding Your Home

Rebuilding after the Los Angeles wildfires? Learn about the streamlined permitting process, required permits, and updated regulations to help you rebuild your home quickly and safely. Contact us for guidance.

City of Los Angeles Wildfire Recovery Permitting Update

In response to the devastating wildfires, the City of Los Angeles has streamlined the permitting process to assist wildfire victims. Under the Executive Order issued by Mayor Bass on January 13, 2025, several measures have been implemented to expedite rebuilding:

Dedicated Permitting Centers in burn areas staffed by city agencies
Expedited Permit Reviews, with initial reviews completed within 30 days and building inspections within two business days
Streamlined Processes that remove many discretionary review requirements for rebuilding efforts
Exemption from “All Electric” Codes and Coastal Zone requirements for eligible projects

For more details on these streamlined processes, visit the City of Los Angeles Department of Building & Safety.

Rebuilding After the LA Wildfires: Understanding Permitting Requirements

If you’ve lost your home in the recent LA wildfires, you may be wondering how to begin the rebuilding process. Rebuilding in California requires obtaining several permits to ensure that the construction complies with local building codes, zoning laws, and environmental regulations. These permits help ensure the safety and integrity of your new home, as well as the protection of surrounding communities.

What Permits Do You Need?

The specific permits required depend on the extent of the damage, the type of structure, and the location of your property. Here’s a general overview of the permits you may need to rebuild in Los Angeles:

1. Building Permit: This essential permit is required for almost all construction or reconstruction projects, ensuring that your home meets local safety and building codes.; How to Obtain: Submit building plans and details to the City of Los Angeles Department of Building & Safety.
2. Fire Permit: If your reconstruction involves installing fire safety measures, such as fire sprinklers or fire-resistant materials, you will need this permit.; How to Obtain: Processed through the Los Angeles Fire Department.
3. Demolition Permit: Usually, if the home is a total loss, it may need to be demolished before rebuilding. However, according to Los Angeles City Mayor Bass’ Emergency Executive Order no.1, issued on January 13, 2025, demolishing for fire damaged buildings can occur without the need for fire permits. FEMA’s assistance may cover debris removal, reducing the need for a separate demolition permit if included in your application.
4. Zoning Permit: If your rebuilding project involves changes to property use or alterations to setbacks, height, or density, a zoning permit will be required. How to Obtain: Contact the LA County Planning Department for requirements. You can refer to the LA County zoning permit instructions and checklist for reference.
5. Environmental Impact Report (EIR): Per California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s Executive Order N-2-24, Environmental Reviews or Environmental Impact Report (EIR) required under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and permitting requirements under the California Coastal Act have been suspended. However, this Executive Order only applies to properties and facilities that were “substantially damaged or destroyed” in the recent Southern California wildfires. Furthermore, any rebuilt structures must be located “substantially in the same location” and cannot exceed “110% of the original footprint and height of properties and facilities that were legally established and existed immediately prior to this emergency.

6. Grading Permit

If the site needs regrading to prepare for construction, this permit ensures proper drainage and land preparation.
How to Obtain: Apply through Los Angeles County Public Works.
7. Utility Connection Permits: Required for reconnecting utilities such as water, gas, and electricity.; How to Obtain: Each utility provider will have specific processes for reconnection.
8. Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical Permits: If your project involves electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems, these permits ensure safety and compliance with codes.
How to Obtain: Typically handled through the building department or licensed contractors.
9. Historical or Design Review Permit: If your property is in a historic district or has design restrictions, you may need a permit to ensure that new construction aligns with community standards.
How to Obtain: Check with the local planning or preservation commission.
10. Right-of-Way or Encroachment Permit

If construction affects public spaces like streets or easements, you’ll need this permit.
How to Obtain: Apply through Los Angeles Public Works. Application here.