Debris Removal Town Hall

(1/25/25)

Links & Phone Numbers Mentioned:

Phase 1 debris removal updates and the status of your lot: Recovery.lacounty.gov

1-800-675-4357 for requests, such as sandbags, and issues related to the condition of your slope and dealing with landslides from the rain.

LA County Public Works Fire Debris Hotline: 844-347-3332 | EPA Hotline: 1-833-798-7372

Summary:

Debris cleanup will happen in two phases. The first is done to remove the most toxic debris "low hanging fruit". This is mandatory and free.

Next is phase two, which you can opt-in or opt-out for on Recovery.lacounty.gov. This will be a free service and cover the area of your house that burned down. Phase 2 must happen after phase one. If you opt-out you may not be able to opt back in. If you opt-out you must get a permit to be able to do the removal.

Main Takeaways:

• 12:28 🏗️ LA County is leading cleanup efforts, with support from multiple agencies to expedite debris removal and recovery. The county has deployed K rails and sandbags to prevent further disasters and is collaborating with state and federal agencies for quick debris removal.
• 13:22 ⚠️ Debris is hazardous and should not be handled by residents; cleanup must be carried out by professionals.
• 14:26 🏡 Efforts are being made to streamline permitting for debris removal to speed up the rebuilding process.
• 16:03 🏠 The mayor emphasizes quick rebuilding efforts, with various measures in place to facilitate returning residents to their homes.
• 17:19 🆓 The Army Corps of Engineers will offer free debris clearance as a recovery option.
• 19:08 🌳 Concerns over how debris removal will affect surrounding areas, particularly with regard to unburned trees.
• 21:27 🚨 Federal law limits aid for uninsured losses, with a maximum financial assistance cap necessitating additional lobbying for more support.
• 24:09 🔧 State and local efforts aim to ensure quick recovery through immediate relief funds and expedited permitting processes.
• 25:19 🌱 Local governments are receiving additional funding to speed up housing recovery and permit processes.
• 26:50 🏦 Residents are advised to be cautious of predatory land buyers during this vulnerable time.
• 30:20 🛠️ Agencies including LA County Public Works and EPA are involved in ongoing debris removal and prevention efforts to ensure community safety.
• 36:39 🏛️ Local officials emphasize community input for effective project planning and execution.
• 37:22 🇺🇸 Debris cleanup is federally funded, with the US Army Corps of Engineers executing the project under FEMA's direction.
• 38:02 🔍 A system for verifying property ownership is in place, crucial for debris removal and rebuilding preparation.
• 39:13 📝 Property owners need to give 'Right of Entry' permission for debris removal, verified by the county.
• 39:40 📞 Sign-up for the debris removal program starts Tuesday, via a dedicated phone number and website.
• 40:23 🌐 Property owners can opt for a government-run free program or handle debris cleanup using personal funds.
• 41:36 🚜 The cleanup process isn't first-come, first-served; focus is on efficient property grouping.
• 42:32 🏗️ Building permits can be applied for immediately, even if debris removal isn't complete yet.
• 43:54 🤝 Community collaboration can expedite the debris removal process significantly.
• 45:19 🛡️ Local government leaders commend federal, state, and local governance for their support in recovery efforts.
• 46:15 🌧️ Systems are in place to mitigate the impact of rain on burnt properties, safeguarding against landslides and environmental damage.
• 47:19 🌈 There is a focus on rebuilding hope and optimism within the affected communities post-disaster.
• 48:15 📚 The Army Corps of Engineers aims to educate and align terminologies with the community.
• 49:23 ✔️ Transparent communication is emphasized to manage expectations and progress in the debris removal process.
• 50:06 🕊️ The Army Corps of Engineers highlights the need for trust-building and collaboration with the community.
• 51:00 🚦 Prioritization in debris removal accounts for public safety and operational efficiency on roadways.
• 52:27 🛠️ The ultimate goal is property readiness for reconstruction through collaboration and effective debris clearance.
• 55:47 🧑‍⚕️ LA County Public Health emphasizes health and safety during recovery, providing guidance tailored to specific property conditions.
• 59:20 🔋 Lithium ion batteries pose a fire risk as they can reignite and release toxic gases; expert handling is required.
• 01:00:06 ✋ Town hall Q&A rules include note card submission for questions and maintaining respect.
• 01:01:17 🏡 Timeline for returning home depends individually on factors like permits and construction materials.
• 01:04:13 🌧️ Re-entry delays are due to weather, but zones may open the next day if conditions improve.
• 01:05:15 📜 Government debris removal options include a free program, requiring insurance coverage for debris removal to be handed over.
• 01:07:18 🛡️ Residents advised to wear protective gear when returning to fire-damaged properties to avoid health risks.
• 01:09:11 🎯 Army Corps of Engineers emphasizes proper entry procedures for effective debris removal.
• 01:11:04 🏗️ Special attention needed for properties with landslide risk; professional assessment advised.
• 01:15:00 👷 Contractors may be allowed entry after zone openings; morning discussions settle protocols.
• 01:17:54 💼 Valuable personal property will receive due respect during debris removal stages; retrieval possible with re-entry.
• 01:22:10 📦 Personal belongings can be retrieved post-fire once access is granted, but individuals should be aware of associated risks.
• 01:23:36 🚫 Two zones currently have restricted access for safety reasons; residents will be notified when it’s safe to return.
• 01:24:30 🌧️ Mudslides have complicated re-entry efforts; clearance is weather-dependent.
• 01:25:09 🔄 A permit is needed for private debris removal; it must meet Army Corps standards.
• 01:27:09 🏠 Remaining structures on private property will not be demolished without owner consent.
• 01:28:06 🏗️ Only fire-damaged, uninhabitable properties are eligible for debris removal programs.
• 01:29:01 ⚠️ Crews will enter properties in protective gear and conduct hazard assessments before debris removal.
• 01:30:25 🚛 Debris, including ash, will be encapsulated and taken to appropriate landfills for disposal.
• 01:32:13 📋 Property owners decide on foundation removal through entry forms; final inspections ensure safety.
• 01:33:51 🌐 The EPA offers an online platform and hotline for homeowners to check debris removal status.
• 01:36:21 🏚️ Foundations' structural integrity will determine if they remain or are removed; professional evaluation is advised.
• 01:39:10 🏊 Pools will not be removed but will be made safe with protective barriers.
• 01:41:07 🌳 Removal includes chimneys, hazardous trees, and debris—foundations are optional based on owner choice.
• 01:42:19 🚫 Undertaking debris removal requires a county permit and adherence to safety standards.
• 01:43:23 💧 Water systems are under review, and safe resumption depends on passing regulatory tests.
• 01:44:34 🛠️ Water safety is under ongoing evaluation, with restrictions imposed by California authorities until clearance.
• 01:45:29 🏠 The EPA is tackling over 15,000 properties, working rapidly to expedite phase one of removal.
• 01:47:12 🚒 Recovery Process: The response to fire recovery involves a partnership that moves debris from an uncontrolled to a controlled environment, starting with hazardous materials.
• 01:48:09 🧯 EPA's Role: EPA's phase one aims to remove hazardous materials before the Army Corps can start their work, to streamline and ensure safety.
• 01:49:50 🛡️ Safety Gear: Workers handling phase one removal are cross-trained and use personal protective equipment suitable for the specific risks of each property.
• 01:51:26 🌿 Vegetation Importance: Existing vegetation should remain for erosion control and pollutant uptake if it's stable, even if burned.
• 01:52:23 🌧️ Sandbags Availability: Residents can access sandbags from fire stations or request via a provided contact number before storms.
• 01:54:05 🌱 Soil Removal: EPA removes up to six inches of topsoil from lots instead of a full foot, focusing on hazard elimination.
• 01:55:13 🏗️ One-Stop Rebuilding: A One-Stop shop will be established for rebuilding, with city departments available in the Palisades area.
• 01:56:10 🎫 Opt-out Options: Homeowners cannot opt out of Phase One cleanup operations due to mandatory safety regulations.
• 01:57:00 🔍 Hazard Testing: EPA focuses only on hazardous material removal, not on testing or regulatory oversight.
• 01:57:54 🚧 Structure Safety: Retaining walls and other structures are assessed individually to avoid unnecessary removal, aiming to preserve safe components.
• 01:59:13 🏠 Valuables Recovery: Valuable items found during cleanups are reported to authorities for safe return to owners.
• 02:01:42 🔒 Access Permission: Reasonable documentation can allow agents to access properties on behalf of elderly or unavailable owners.
• 02:02:50 🚫 Risk vs. Coverage: The government suggests consulting the Department of Insurance for guidance on property safety and coverage post-fire.
• 02:05:03 🏛️ Infrastructure Legislation: Legislation aims to capture property tax increases for long-term recovery funding in affected areas.
• 02:08:02 🌳 Tree Preservation: Discussions ongoing on preserving surviving trees; additional follow-up with local authorities advised.
• 02:11:18 👶 Safety Concerns: Returning to structurally sound but nearby damaged properties carries risk; utilities and water safety are major concerns.
• 02:13:09 🏗️ The town hall is focused on debris removal with plans to provide a fact sheet of frequently asked questions online post-session.
• 02:14:28 🚧 There's major damage to public infrastructure, and coordination is underway to restore essential services like power, water, and sewer.
• 02:15:08 🗓️ Hazardous debris removal assessments began on January 16, with material removal commencing soon and daily updates available online.
• 02:15:47 🚚 Toxic fire debris will be transported to designated landfills, and efforts are made to minimize the impact on returning residents.
• 02:17:10 🏡 Careful debris removal methods are used to minimize dust and air quality impact during the debris removal process.
• 02:19:23 🚓 Law enforcement by LAPD, CHP, and National Guard will maintain a strong presence throughout the process.
• 02:20:37 🏘️ Mobile home parks in the affected area will continue to be used as such, governed by state law and housing strategy.
• 02:22:09 🏠 Property owners have authority over debris removal decisions when multiple tenants are involved.
• 02:22:58 🔄 You can opt in or out of the public debris removal program, but cannot rejoin once opted out.
• 02:24:49 🌍 Only debris within the burn area qualifies for the removal program, with support provided based on eligibility.
• 02:25:19 💡 Specific certifications are required for private contractors to handle debris removal.
• 02:26:23 👷‍♀️ Liability during debris removal lies with the county and contracted workers, with bonds and insurance in place.
• 02:28:02 🏘️ Extensive plans include addressing older adults' needs, ensuring police presence, and using designated routes for transport.
• 02:30:14 ✅ Phase one must be completed before construction permits are issued; debris removal decisions impact building processes.
• 02:33:34 🔍 Areas that have completed debris removal can start rebuilding once permits are granted.
• 02:35:35 🛑 Priority may be given to areas where homes are standing to expedite the return of residents.
• 02:36:42 🛡️ Community members are advised to use protective equipment like N95 masks or P100 masks when returning to affected areas for safety.

The Palisades

The Palisades is a special place, everyone who lived here knows it.

It won't be easy, but we can rebuild together.

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