Rebuilding After the Palisades Fire: FAQs on Debris Removal & Recovery

The second phase of post-fire debris removal following the Palisades Fire focuses on the complete elimination of remaining hazardous materials. This includes the removal of fire-damaged and dead standing trees that pose a risk, the clearing of ash and soot, and the removal of all structural remains, including foundations. This comprehensive cleanup is essential before rebuilding can begin.

As per The Army Corps of Engineers FAQ

• Removal of hazards to operators, such as surface ash (up to 6-inches of incidental soil) to remediate remaining imminent threats to public health and safety.

• Burned debris, including burned structural remains, furniture, personal belongings, white goods, household appliances, and patio furniture (excluding burned or partially burned stone, concrete, landscaping features, or statues outside the structural footprint).

• Household hazardous waste (HHW) and/or other hazardous materials and pollutants associated with private residences and public properties.

• Removal of chimneys, trees, and unsupported walls that pose a hazard to debris removal crews.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) leads Phase 2 debris removal as part of the federally funded cleanup effort after the Pacific Palisades Fire. Their primary role is to safely remove fire-related debris from private properties, ensuring the land is clear of hazardous materials and ready for rebuilding.

USACE works in coordination with FEMA and local agencies to manage:

• Structural debris removal (burned materials, collapsed walls, roofing, and more)

• Chimney and foundation removal (if requested in the Right-of-Entry form)

• Hazardous tree assessment and removal

• Soil contamination testing and removal (if required)

Phase 2 focuses on removing:

• Fire-damaged structural debris, including collapsed walls, roofing, and foundations (if requested)

• Hazardous trees that are dead or likely to fall within five years

• Chimneys and remnants of burned-out structures

• Ash and soil contamination (typically removing up to 6 inches of soil within the burn footprint)

• Household hazardous waste left behind that wasn’t cleared during Phase 1

📌 For a full breakdown of what is included in Phase 2:

🔗 LA County Debris Removal Program

Debris removal begins as soon as Phase 1 is complete on a property and the Right-of-Entry (ROE) form is submitted and approved.

Important Details:

• Phase 1 (Hazardous Material Removal) must be completed by the EPA first.

• Cleanup occurs in clusters based on efficiency, ensuring the fastest possible removal.

• Homeowners should submit their ROE forms ASAP to avoid unnecessary delays.

📌 Track debris removal progress and schedules:
🔗 LA County Recovery Dashboard

The Army Corps of Engineers, during post-wildfire debris removal, focuses on eliminating fire-related debris that poses immediate threats to safety and the environment.

This will include:

• Removal of hazards such as surface ash (up to 6-inches of incidental soil) 

• Burned debris, including:

  • Burned structural remains

  • Furniture

  • Personal belongings

  • White goods

  • Household appliances

  • Patio furniture (excluding burned or partially burned stone, concrete, landscaping features, or statues outside the structural footprint).

• Household hazardous waste (HHW) and/or other hazardous materials and pollutants associated with private residences and public properties.

• Removal of chimneys, trees, and unsupported walls that pose a hazard to debris removal crews.

Certain structures and features are not included in the standard Phase 2 cleanup:

• Slope-stabilizing retaining walls (unless deemed hazardous)

• Driveways, patios, and hardscaping

• Standing structures that are still viable

• Swimming pools (though ash and debris may be removed)

• Vehicles that were not covered by structural debris

If you need additional removal services beyond the government program, you will need private cleanup:
🔗 Find County-Approved Private Debris Removal Services

The debris removal process is a structured, multi-step operation that ensures hazardous materials and fire debris are cleared safely and efficiently.

Step-by-Step Breakdown of Phase 2 Cleanup

1. Right-of-Entry (ROE) Form Submission

• Homeowners must submit an ROE form to authorize debris removal.

• Submit your ROE here: LA County Recovery Website

2. Property Evaluation & Scheduling

• Properties are grouped for efficient debris removal based on accessibility and severity.

• You will receive a 72-hour advance notice before work begins.

3. Debris Removal Begins

• Crews clear structural debris, chimneys, hazardous trees, and fire-damaged materials.

• Fire-contaminated soil is tested and removed if necessary.

4. Erosion Control & Final Inspection

• Crews install erosion control measures (silt fences, straw wattles) to prevent runoff.

• A final site inspection is conducted to ensure the land is safe for rebuilding.

Debris removal is typically completed in 2-3 days per property. However, several factors can impact the timeline:

• Lot size & debris volume – Larger lots with extensive damage may take longer.

• Weather conditions – Rain or extreme heat may cause temporary delays.

• Property access – Some areas require additional coordination if blocked or hazardous.

• Additional soil removal – If soil is heavily contaminated, more time is required.

Even though each property may only take a few days, the overall program can last months as crews move through impacted neighborhoods.

📌 Track debris removal progress on the LA County Recovery Dashboard:

• LA County Recovery Updates

To start the process, homeowners must:

• Submit a Right-of-Entry (ROE) form – This gives cleanup crews legal access to your property.

  • Apply here: ROE Form – LA County Recovery

• Ensure property access – Remove locked gates or obstacles that could slow debris removal.

• Stay informed – Regularly check county updates for scheduling information.

March 31, 2025 is the deadline to opt into the government-funded debris removal program.

🚨 Why you should submit early:

• Properties are scheduled in groups for efficiency.

• Delays in submission can postpone your cleanup date.

• If you miss the deadline, you will automatically be considered as "Opted Out" and will need to arrange private debris removal at your own expense.

📌 Submit your ROE before the deadline:

• ROE Form Submission

No. The cleanup process is not first-come, first-served. Instead, properties are prioritized based on:

• Health & safety risks – Some properties may need urgent attention.

• Grouping for efficiency – Contractors clear properties in clusters.

• Completion of Phase 1 (hazardous waste removal) – Work cannot begin until Phase 1 is finished.

To avoid delays in your area, encourage your neighbors to submit ROE forms early, so your neighborhood gets scheduled faster.

📌 Track community-wide debris removal progress:

• LA County Recovery Updates

If your home is damaged but still structurally sound, you may not need debris removal services. However, you should submit an ROE form if:

• You have fire-damaged structures that need clearing (sheds, garages, outbuildings).

• You want hazardous tree removal as part of Phase 2.

• You are unsure about the extent of damage—government assessments can help.

Do you have questions about eligibility? Contact LA County Public Works:

In most cases, swimming pools will not be drained as part of Phase 2 debris removal. However, crews may use pool water for dust suppression during cleanup. If debris has contaminated your pool, consult LA County Public Health for proper cleanup procedures.

📌 For guidelines on pool safety and contamination cleanup:
🔗 LA County Public Health Pool Safety

By opting into the government-funded debris removal program, you authorize the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and FEMA to clear fire debris from your property at no out-of-pocket cost to you.

This includes:

• Safe and professional debris removal following all environmental regulations.

• Hazardous tree assessment and removal if necessary.

• Soil testing and removal if contamination is found.

• Erosion control measures after debris is cleared.

📌 Submit your Right-of-Entry (ROE) form here: LA County ROE Submission

Yes, you can choose to handle debris removal privately, but you must:

1. Obtain a debris removal permit from Los Angeles County.

2. Hire a licensed and certified debris removal contractor.

3. Conduct an asbestos and hazardous materials survey with a Certified Asbestos Consultant (CAC).

4. Follow local, state, and federal debris removal regulations.

5. Submit documentation proving compliance with environmental safety standards.

📌 Find County-Approved Private Debris Removal Guidelines: LA County Private Cleanup Requirements

If you opt out of the government program, your contractor must:

• Be licensed and insured for debris removal and hazardous waste handling.

• Follow all CalRecycle, EPA, and OSHA regulations for wildfire debris cleanup.

• Submit an asbestos and hazardous material clearance report before work begins.

• Obtain an approved debris disposal site permit from South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD).

• Transport debris using county-approved haul routes to authorized disposal sites.

  
  

📌 Verify contractor requirements and permits:

• California Contractors License Board
• South Coast AQMD Debris Management

Yes, if you submit an ROE form but later decide to handle debris removal privately, you can opt out. However, this may cause delays in clearing your property, and you will need to:

1. Notify LA County Public Works to cancel your ROE form.

2. Apply for private debris removal permits.

3. Ensure compliance with county debris management guidelines.

📌 Contact LA County Public Works to opt out:
LA County Debris Removal Hotline: (844) 347-3332

🚨 No. Once you opt out and begin private debris removal, you cannot rejoin the government program. You will be fully responsible for all cleanup costs and compliance requirements.

Before opting out, review all private cleanup costs & regulations:  LA County Private Debris Removal Guidelines

No. Phase 1, which is hazardous materials removal by the EPA, is completely separate from Phase 2. You do not need to opt into Phase 2 to receive Phase 1 services.

📌 EPA Hazardous Materials Cleanup Details:  EPA Wildfire Cleanup Process

When participating in the government debris removal program, you will typically need to provide:

• Proof of property ownership (such as a deed or tax bill).

• A copy of your insurance policy.

• Potentially other documents as requested by the administering agency.

Properties are scheduled based on a combination of factors, including:

• Completion of Phase 1 (Hazardous Materials Removal) – Phase 2 cannot begin until Phase 1 is complete.

• Submission of Right-of-Entry (ROE) Forms – The sooner you submit your ROE, the sooner your property can be scheduled.

• Geographic Grouping for Efficiency – Properties in the same area are scheduled together to maximize efficiency.

• Health & Safety Prioritization – Properties posing immediate hazards may be cleared first.

Track debris removal schedules and updates:
🔗 LA County Recovery Dashboard

No. Phase 1 and Phase 2 run concurrently. Your property will be scheduled as soon as:

1. Phase 1 is completed on your property.

2. Your ROE form is verified and processed.

3. Your property is grouped with others in your area for efficient cleanup.

Homeowners will receive a 72-hour advance notice before debris removal begins. The Army Corps of Engineers or the assigned contractor will reach out via:

• Phone call or email (if provided in your ROE form).

• Official notices posted on-site.

• Local government announcements.

📌 Ensure your contact information is updated in your ROE submission:  ROE Form Submission Portal

If crews encounter challenges accessing your property due to:

• Locked gates or fencing – Homeowners will need to provide access or temporary removal.

• Unstable terrain or structural hazards – Engineers may need to assess site safety before proceeding.

• Obstructed roads or driveways – Homeowners may need to clear debris blocking access.

If accessibility issues arise, you will be contacted for resolution before debris removal begins. Delays may occur if access modifications are required.

For assistance with property site accessibility concerns, contact LA County Public Works:
🔗 Debris Removal Assistance
📞 LA County Debris Removal Hotline: (844) 347-3332

Whether your homeowner's insurance will cover debris removal after the Palisades Fire depends entirely on the specifics of your individual insurance policy. Some policies explicitly cover debris removal, while others may have limitations or require separate endorsements. The best course of action is to contact your insurance provider directly to thoroughly review your policy and understand the extent of your coverage for post-fire debris removal.

If you do not have homeowners insurance, you can still opt into the government-sponsored debris removal program at no cost to you. FEMA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers cover cleanup expenses, ensuring all eligible properties are cleared of fire-related debris regardless of insurance status.

📌 For more information on FEMA assistance for uninsured homeowners: FEMA Disaster Assistance

FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) may offer financial assistance for debris removal after a wildfire, but eligibility requirements apply. FEMA assistance is typically intended to supplement insurance coverage and address unmet needs. Contact FEMA directly

The typical costs of private fire debris removal in Los Angeles County can vary significantly based on several factors. These include the size of the property affected, the extent of the fire damage, the type and amount of debris that needs to be removed, accessibility to the site, and the prevailing rates charged by debris removal contractors in the area. It's crucial to obtain quotes from multiple reputable and licensed contractors to get a clear understanding of the potential costs involved for your specific situation.

Yes. If you opt out of the government-funded program, you can use your insurance payout to hire a private contractor for debris removal. However, you must comply with Los Angeles County debris removal regulations and obtain the necessary permits.

Check private debris removal guidelines and permits:
🔗 LA County Private Debris Removal

Obtaining accurate cost estimates for debris removal and rebuilding after the Palisades Fire requires a thorough assessment of the damage to your property. The best way to get a reliable estimate is to contact licensed and experienced contractors specializing in fire damage restoration, like Bay Cities Construction. They will conduct a detailed inspection of your property, taking into account all aspects of the damage, and provide you with a comprehensive and personalized cost estimate for both debris removal and the rebuilding process.

While the government-sponsored debris removal program offers significant assistance, it's essential to understand that it may not cover all costs associated with cleanup after the Palisades Fire. The program typically focuses on removing hazardous debris and structural remains. Costs related to personal belongings, landscaping, and certain specialized cleanup tasks may not be included. Contact the administering agency to clarify the exact scope of coverage and determine what additional expenses you might be responsible for.

Homeowners facing the challenge of rebuilding after the Palisades Fire can explore several financial resources. These include insurance payouts from their homeowner's insurance policy, which should cover at least a portion of the rebuilding costs. FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) may offer disaster assistance grants to eligible individuals and families. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans are another option for low-interest financing for rebuilding. It's also worth exploring assistance programs offered by local community organizations and non-profits.

Maximizing your insurance claim for fire damage after the Palisades Fire requires meticulous documentation and careful communication. First, thoroughly document all damage to your property with photos and videos. Work closely and cooperatively with your insurance adjuster, providing them with all requested information promptly. It's highly advisable to consult with experienced contractors specializing in fire damage restoration. They understand the claims process and can help ensure you receive fair compensation for all covered damages.

Yes, there are specific and crucial safety regulations that must be followed during the cleanup process after the Palisades Fire. These regulations are in place to protect individuals from potential hazards associated with fire debris, such as toxic substances, sharp objects, and unstable structures. Contact Los Angeles County or the relevant fire recovery agencies for detailed information on these safety regulations and ensure you comply with all guidelines.

The debris removal process follows strict environmental safety protocols to ensure that hazardous materials do not impact local communities, water sources, or ecosystems. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and environmental agencies use:

• Erosion control measures such as straw wattles, silt fences, and hydroseeding to prevent soil erosion and runoff.

• Dust suppression techniques like water misting to prevent airborne contaminants.

• Proper hazardous waste disposal at designated facilities to prevent soil and groundwater contamination.

• Air quality monitoring to mitigate health risks from airborne debris.

Learn more about environmental protection during wildfire debris removal:
🔗 LA County Environmental Health & Safety

Wildfire debris can present a range of potential health risks. Ash and soot can contain microscopic particles that, when inhaled, can irritate the respiratory system. Burned structures may release hazardous chemicals and toxins. Asbestos, a known carcinogen, might be present in older building materials. There's also the risk of exposure to mold and bacteria if debris gets wet. It's vital to be aware of these potential health hazards and take necessary precautions.

Yes, permits are typically required for both debris removal and rebuilding after the Palisades Fire. The specific permit requirements will vary depending on the extent of the damage and local building codes. Contact the local building department in Los Angeles County as soon as possible to obtain information on the necessary permits and begin the application process. Starting this process early can prevent delays later on.

Ensuring the safe removal of hazardous materials from your property after the Palisades Fire requires hiring licensed and experienced contractors specializing in hazardous waste removal. These professionals have the training, equipment, and expertise to handle materials like asbestos, chemicals, and other toxins safely and in compliance with all environmental regulations. Don't attempt to handle these materials yourself.

Multiple agencies oversee compliance with federal, state, and local safety regulations, including:

• OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) – Ensures worker and public safety during debris removal.

• Cal/OSHA (California Division of Occupational Safety and Health) – Regulates safe worksite conditions.

• EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) – Monitors hazardous waste removal and environmental safety.

• LA County Public Works – Oversees compliance with county debris removal regulations.

• South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) – Regulates air quality control during cleanup efforts.

For official safety guidelines and compliance resources:
🔗 EPA Wildfire Response

• Soil testing is conducted to determine contamination levels.

• If toxic materials are present, up to 6 inches of soil may be removed. 

• Clean soil or erosion control measures are applied to prevent environmental hazards.

📌 For soil contamination testing and cleanup guidelines: EPA Soil Contamination Cleanup

Environmental protection is a priority.

Crews implement:

• Erosion control measures such as straw wattles, silt fences, and hydroseeding to prevent runoff.
• Storm drain protection with filtration devices to catch hazardous particles.
• Specialized disposal procedures to ensure contaminated soil and debris are removed responsibly.

Learn more about wildfire debris water protection: EPA Stormwater Management

Once debris removal is complete, the following steps must be taken before rebuilding:

• Final soil testing – The county will verify that the site is free of hazardous contaminants.

• Erosion control installation – Measures such as straw wattles or hydroseeding may be placed to prevent soil movement.

• Final clearance notice – The county will issue an official notice confirming your property is safe for rebuilding.

Check your property’s clearance status:
🔗 LA County Recovery Updates

To rebuild after the Pacific Palisades Fire, homeowners must obtain:

1. Building Permit – Required for all reconstruction projects.

2. Foundation Inspection Approval – If reusing the existing foundation, an inspection is mandatory.

3. Environmental Compliance Certificate – Ensures adherence to updated fire safety and zoning regulations.

Rebuilding after a wildfire can be complex. Homeowners should consider consulting:

• Licensed Contractors – Ensure the company specializes in post-fire restoration.

• Structural Engineers – Assess if the foundation is safe for reuse.

• Fire Recovery Specialists – Help with permitting and rebuilding logistics.

We offer a concierge service to help you navigate through the whole process. Click here to schedule a consultation.

Homeowners can choose whether to remove their foundation during Phase 2 cleanup. However, fire-damaged concrete may be compromised. It is recommended to have a structural engineer evaluate your foundation before deciding to reuse it.

📌 For guidance on structural assessments:  California Structural Engineering Association

If you plan to make structural modifications, such as expanding your home or altering the footprint, you may need:

• New zoning approval based on LA County regulations.

• Updated building permits reflecting your design changes. 

• Environmental impact assessments in some cases.

If you own a condo or townhome in an affected area, the Homeowners Association (HOA) may need to submit a Right-of-Entry (ROE) form on behalf of all owners. However, it is recommended that each individual owner also submit an ROE to ensure their property is included in the cleanup process.

📌 For HOA guidance on debris removal:
🔗 LA County HOA Debris Removal Guidelines

If a condo building is deemed structurally unsafe due to fire damage, the entire building may require demolition, including the foundation. If the structure remains intact, a structural engineer will assess whether it is safe to rebuild on the existing foundation.

📌 Check structural safety requirements: California Structural Engineering Association

Properties located in geologically unstable areas may require additional safety evaluations before debris removal can proceed. The Army Corps of Engineers and LA County Public Works will assess:

• Slope stability to ensure safe debris removal.

• Drainage and erosion risks that may impact neighboring properties.

• Engineering solutions if stabilization work is required.

📌 Check LA County landslide risk zones:
🔗 LA County Public Works Geological Survey

✔ If a burned vehicle is covered in structural debris, it will be removed as part of Phase 2 cleanup.
✔ If a burned vehicle is in an open area, homeowners should contact their insurance company for removal options before debris cleanup begins.

For vehicle removal guidelines, contact:
🔗 California DMV Vehicle Removal After Fire

If additional hazardous materials (such as propane tanks, asbestos, or lead-based materials) are discovered during Phase 2 debris removal, specialized teams will be called in to safely handle and remove them before general cleanup continues.

For hazardous waste disposal information: EPA Hazardous Waste Removal

Crews use several safety measures to prevent damage to standing structures, including:

• Protective barriers to separate cleanup zones from undamaged buildings.

• Dust suppression techniques to reduce airborne contaminants.

• Site inspections before and after debris removal to ensure surrounding structures are intact.

If you have property-specific concerns that are not covered in the standard Phase 2 debris removal program, contact LA County’s Fire Recovery Assistance team for individualized guidance on:

• Special demolition considerations for multi-unit buildings.

• Foundation assessments for rebuilding decisions.

• Additional soil testing for environmentally sensitive areas.

Request a personalized property assessment:
🔗 LA County Fire Recovery Assistance
📞 Call LA County Debris Removal Hotline: (844) 347-3332

Yes, homeowners may be present during Phase 2 debris removal, but they must maintain a safe distance from the work area. For safety reasons, crews will restrict access to active cleanup zones, and protective measures such as dust suppression will be in place.