Debris Removal for the LA Wildfires: What You Need to Know

Recovery

Recovery

Recovery

Recovery

Jan 30, 2025

Fire debris removal programs for private property are now underway. This will be a two-stage process:

  • Phase 1: Hazardous material removal

  • Phase 2: Ash and structural debris removal

For Phase 2, you need to decide whether you want to opt into or opt out of the government-run debris removal program. The deadline for opt-in or opt-out is March 31, 2025. We will explain both options, and Phases 1 and 2, below.

Phase 1: Hazardous material removal

Actions to take: None, no action required from property owners

Costs: None, free to all residents

The EPA will visit every property that has been impacted to assess, remove, and safely dispose of hazardous household materials from all burned areas.

Once hazardous materials have been removed, the EPA will post a placard on the property indicating that Phase 1 has been completed. Completion of Phase 1 for all LA burn sites could take two to three months. You can monitor Phase 1 progress on this EPA Work Status Map.

EPA cleanup crews are focused on products like paints, cleaners, solvents, oils, herbicides, pesticides, pressurized fuel cylinders, and lithium-ion batteries. They will also safely remove batteries from electric and hybrid vehicles and home backup power supplies.

Until Phase 1 is complete and site hazard testing has been completed, consider everything on the property as hazardous. DO NOT attempt to remove hazardous fire debris yourself.

Phase 2: Ash and structural debris removal

Actions to take:

  • Decide whether to proceed with the free, government-run program or work with a private contractor

  • If opting in to government debris removal plan: Complete Right-of-Entry Form

  • If opting out of government debris removal plan: Complete Opt-Out form and obtain a work permit

Costs:

  • If opting in to government debris removal plan: Free (if no insurance) or the exact amount covered by homeowners insurance

  • If opting out of government debris removal plan: Any debris removal costs exceeding your insurance debris removal coverage

Deadlines: Opt into or opt out of the government-run Phase 2 by March 31, 2025

Phase 2: Government-run debris removal

After Phase 1 is complete, the Army Corps of Engineers will clear ash and structural debris from the properties of residents who have opted into the removal program. They will also remove as much as 6” of topsoil from the property to remove toxins.

The Army Corps will charge participating property owners the amount covered by their homeowners insurance policy — no more, no less. (Note that homeowners insurance will often have separate coverage for debris removal that can only be used for this type of service.) For those without insurance, debris removal will be free of charge.

To opt in to the government-run Phase 2, visit the LA County Recovers Debris Removal Information page to fill out the Right-of-Entry Form. The Right-of-Entry Form gives the Army Corps of Engineers legal permission to access the property. This Opt-In Checklist lists the documents you need and the questions you will need to answer to fill out the form.

If you enroll in the government debris removal program, you must decide whether to have the government remove your property's foundation or leave it in place. If you opt out of foundation removal, you may have to remove it privately later. Doing this may give you more control over the removal process, but it could also be costly and time-consuming. If you are already working with a contractor, ask for their guidance before filling out the Right-of-Entry form.

Phase 2: Private debris removal

To remove debris without government assistance and instead use a private contractor, you must complete this Opt-Out of Debris Removal on Private Property form.

You will also need to submit your contractor’s work plan to the County through EPIC-LA to obtain a permit. The County will review your application and contractor’s work plan for safety and environmental compliance.

How to decide between government debris removal and private debris removal for Phase 2

To decide between the free, government-provided debris removal program and a private debris removal service, you need to consider both your own circumstances and what your neighbors are planning to do.

Note that if you clean up your property before your neighbors do, their cleanup process may end up getting toxic particles and debris on your property.

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