California Governor Issues Executive Order to Expedite Wildfire Recovery in Los Angeles Region

Posted on 01/14/25

in California Wildfire Litigation, California Wildfires, News, Personal Injury, Wildfire Resources, Wrongful Death

In response to devastating wildfires that have swept through Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, Governor Gavin Newsom has issued Executive Order N-4-25 to accelerate recovery efforts and reduce barriers to rebuilding.

The January 2025 fires, including the Palisades, Eaton, Hurst, Lidia, Sunset, and Woodley Fires, have collectively burned over 39,000 acres and damaged or destroyed more than 12,000 structures. With Los Angeles County already facing significant housing challenges, the Governor’s order implements several key measures to expedite reconstruction:

Key Components of the Executive Order appear to be:

1. Environmental and Coastal Permits Streamlined
– Suspends California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requirements for qualifying rebuild projects
– Waives California Coastal Act permit requirements for affected properties

2. Property Rebuilding Guidelines
– Allows reconstruction up to 110% of original footprint and height
– Properties must be rebuilt in substantially the same location

3. Extended Consumer Protections
– Price gouging protections extended until January 7, 2026
– Covers building materials, housing, storage services, and emergency supplies

4. Streamlined Permitting Process
– Directs Housing and Community Development to coordinate with local governments
– Aims to establish 30-day permitting timeline for rebuilding projects
– Explores use of per-approved plans to accelerate approvals

5. Future Planning
– Requires review of building codes to facilitate safe, cost-effective rebuilding
– Emphasizes incorporation of fire-hardening measures in reconstruction
– Mandates regular progress reports on recovery efforts

For affected residents seeking more information about rebuilding assistance and permitting processes, contact your local government offices or visit the California Department of Housing and Community Development website.

To read the full executive order you can click on the link below:

https://www.gov.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/EO-N-4-25-Rebuilding-Final-signed.pdf