Leave a Message

Thank you for your message. We will be in touch with you shortly.

Los Angeles Wildfire Cleanup: Phase 1 Complete, Phase 2 Underway

March 9, 2025

Los Angeles Wildfire Cleanup: Phase 1 Complete, Phase 2 Underway

Los Angeles Wildfire Cleanup: Phase 1 Complete, Phase 2 Underway

The devastating January 2025 Eaton and Palisades wildfires, which scorched over 37,000 acres and destroyed thousands of homes, left many Los Angeles residents facing a long and challenging road to recovery. However, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has successfully completed Phase 1 of the Los Angeles wildfire cleanup, marking a critical milestone in the cleanup process. This phase, which focused on the removal of household hazardous materials, was completed ahead of schedule, setting the stage for Phase 2—structural debris removal.

What Was Accomplished in Phase 1?

Under the leadership of the EPA, in coordination with FEMA, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and state and local agencies, crews worked tirelessly to clear hazardous materials from thousands of properties. Some key achievements include:

  • Removal of hazardous waste: Over 9,000 properties were assessed and cleared of hazardous household materials, ensuring safe conditions for further cleanup efforts.
  • Safe disposal of lithium-ion batteries: More than 1,000 batteries from homes, vehicles, and other products were collected and processed.
  • Rapid response and efficiency: The first phase was completed in record time, with 99% of properties cleared within just 29 days.

Phase 1’s swift completion represents a critical milestone in the recovery effort, paving the way for Phase 2, which involves the removal of structural debris and contaminated ash.

Image by La County Recovers

Phase 2: Structural Debris Removal & Environmental Safeguards

With hazardous materials removed, the next phase—led by USACE—focuses on clearing structural debris, contaminated ash, and soil from burned properties. This phase will also include:

  • Asbestos assessment and removal: Any remaining asbestos in fire-damaged buildings will be identified and safely removed.
  • Soil testing and remediation: Scientists will conduct environmental testing to ensure toxic materials such as arsenic, lead, and mercury are safely addressed.
  • Erosion control: Measures like hydromulching and fiber rolls will help prevent soil erosion and protect water sources from contamination.
  • Hazard tree removal: Fire-damaged trees that pose a threat to public infrastructure or cleanup crews will be taken down.

Governor Gavin Newsom has also taken steps to expedite the recovery process by suspending certain regulatory requirements, allowing rebuilding efforts to commence sooner. Tax and mortgage relief programs have been introduced to support affected homeowners, and temporary housing measures are in place to assist those who have lost their homes.

What’s Next for Residents?

Residents impacted by the wildfires can now look ahead to the next stages of recovery. The EPA will maintain a presence to assist in lithium-ion battery processing during Phase 2, and state and federal agencies will continue working to remove debris and stabilize affected areas. Residents impacted by the wildfires can expect the following next steps:

  • Final inspection & clearance letters: Once debris removal is completed, state supervisors and county officials will inspect properties and send clearance letters.
  • Permitting for rebuilding: With cleanup complete, rebuilding efforts can begin without unnecessary delays.
  • Financial relief programs: California has extended tax filing deadlines, mortgage relief, and support for displaced renters.

The federal, state, and local governments remain committed to supporting Angelenos as they recover from these devastating fires. For more information on the cleanup process and available resources, visit the EPA’s 2025 California Wildfires website.

With Phase 1 behind us, Los Angeles is making positive progress in wildfire recovery. While there is still a long road ahead, the actions taken so far demonstrate the dedication of federal, state, and local agencies to restoring communities and helping residents rebuild stronger than before.

Additional Resources for Fire Victims

As Los Angeles moves forward with the cleanup and rebuilding process, various resources are available to assist fire victims in their recovery.

Tax Relief for Fire Victims

  • The individual tax filing deadline has been postponed to October 15 for Los Angeles County taxpayers.
  • The January 31, 2025, sales and use tax filing deadline has been extended to April 30 for affected businesses.

Streamlining Rebuilding Efforts

  • Permitting and environmental review requirements under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the California Coastal Act have been suspended.
  • These measures will help speed up the rebuilding of homes and businesses destroyed in the fire.

Fast-Tracking Temporary Housing

  • Regulations for constructing accessory dwelling units (ADUs) have been eased.
  • More temporary housing options, such as trailers and mobile home parks, have been made available.
  • Certain fees related to temporary housing have been suspended.

Mobilizing Debris Removal and Cleanup

  • Accelerated debris removal and mitigation efforts are in place to prevent mudslides and flooding.
  • Federal hazmat crews are authorized to begin cleanup work to ensure properties are safe for return.

Preventing Price Gouging

  • Expanded restrictions aim to stop illegal price hikes on rent, hotel stays, building materials, and construction services.
  • Residents are encouraged to report violations to the Office of the Attorney General.

Providing Immediate State Relief Funding

  • At least $2.5 billion in additional state funding has been proposed for emergency response and recovery efforts in Los Angeles County.

Supporting Displaced Students

  • Assistance is available for schools and students affected by the fires.
  • Efforts are being made to quickly reintegrate displaced students back into classrooms.

Protecting Fire Victims from Real Estate Speculators

  • Preventative measures are in place to stop aggressive and unsolicited cash offers from predatory land buyers targeting fire victims.

For those navigating the debris removal process, two primary cleanup options are available:

Debris Removal Process

  • Phase 1: Immediate removal of visible hazardous household waste.
  • Phase 2: Removal of remaining ash and debris.

Preparation Steps for Cleanup

  • Identify a long-term mailing address.
  • Gather insurance and property ownership documents.

Cleanup Options

  • No Out-of-Pocket Cost (Government-Managed Program)
  • Submit a Right-of-Entry form to the county.
  • State-managed cleanup is free for property owners.
  • Strict safety protocols are in place to prevent hazardous contamination.

Homeowner Expense (Private Cleanup Program)

  • Hire and manage a private contractor at your own expense.
  • Obtain permits and environmental approval before work begins.
  • Ensure compliance with county rules.

Important Caution

  • Moving or spreading debris can disqualify your property from cleanup programs.

Key Reminders

  • Communicate with your county officials about the debris removal program.
  • The Right-of-Entry form enrolls you in the government cleanup program.
  • The government program has no out-of-pocket cost for homeowners
  • More details are available on CalRecycle’s Recovery Operations page.

Recent Blog Posts

Stay up to date on the latest real estate trends.

Los Angeles Wildfire Cleanup: Phase 1 Complete, Phase 2 Underway

March 9, 2025

The devastating January 2025 Eaton and Palisades wildfires, which scorched over 37,000 acres and destroyed thousands of homes, left many Los Angeles residents facing a… Read more

March 2025: Los Angeles Market Update

March 7, 2025

As we enter March, the Los Angeles real estate market continues to feel the impact of the devastating January wildfires, which have displaced thousands of residents an… Read more

February 2025: Los Angeles Market Update

February 11, 2025

As we enter February, we are mindful of the effects of the devastating January wildfires on our Los Angeles neighbors and communities. Members of the Los Angeles real … Read more

The Los Angeles Ultimate Valentine’s Day Guide

February 2, 2025

As our city rebuilds, this Valentine’s Day Weekend is the perfect opportunity to lean into the love with our partners, family and friends. Los Angeles is bursting with… Read more

Lunar New Year Events

January 23, 2025

As Los Angeles prepares to ring in the Lunar New Year, the festive spirit is tempered by the recent devastation caused by wildfires that have swept through our communi… Read more

Child Donations for Fire Victims

January 15, 2025

Our hearts are with all those impacted by the wildfires in Los Angeles County, our first responders, firefighters and our community who are coming together to support … Read more

Happy Holidays!

December 27, 2024

As we reflect on this past year, Dennis and I want to express our deepest gratitude. Leading Highland Premiere has been an incredible journey, made possible by the har… Read more

The Ultimate Guide to New Year’s Eve in Los Angeles 2025

December 15, 2024

It is never too early to start planning your New Year’s Eve celebrations, and Los Angeles is the perfect city to ring in the new year. Whether you’re into elegant part… Read more

Step Into Holiday Magic: Ways L.A. Turns Into a Festive Wonderland

December 9, 2024

Los Angeles may not have frosty temperatures or natural snowfalls, but it more than makes up for it with dazzling lights, immersive experiences, and whimsical holiday … Read more

Let's Talk

You’ve got questions and we can’t wait to answer them.