Informational Guide: Rebuilding After the Pacific Palisades Fire

In response to the devastating wildfires that have affected our community, Mayor Bass has issued Emergency Executive Order No. 1, Return and Rebuild, aimed at expediting recovery and reconstruction efforts. Below is a step-by-step guide for homeowners impacted by the fires, highlighting key provisions of the order and the process for rebuilding your home.

Key Provisions from Emergency Executive Order No. 1

1. Debris Removal and Watershed Protection
   • Task forces are in place to handle cleanup, contamination prevention, and flood risk mitigation.
   • Efforts are coordinated with local, state, and federal agencies.
2. Disaster Recovery Permitting Center
   • A specialized permitting center operates seven days a week to ensure swift approvals.
3. Expedited Permitting
   • Initial building permit reviews are completed within 30 days.
   • Inspections are conducted within two business days of the request.
4. Temporary Housing Solutions
   • Affected property owners may use recreational vehicles, modular homes, or storage units on-site for up to three years.
5. Waivers for Eligible Projects
   • Discretionary reviews and CEQA requirements are waived.
   • The All-Electric Buildings Ordinance is also waived.
6. Self-Certification
   • Single-family home reviews may qualify for self-certification, subject to a Department of Building & Safety report.

Steps to Rebuild Your Home

1. Initial Planning
   • If you plan to keep your home’s existing floor plan and have the original plans, skip to step 4b.
2. Temporary Housing and Move-Out
   • Arrange for temporary housing during the rebuilding process.
3. Demolition
   • Coordinate asbestos removal, utility shut-offs, and recycling of materials.
4. Design
   a. Vision Statement
   • Create a room-by-room list outlining styles, materials, and desired features such as pools or smart systems.
   • Develop a visual inspiration board using magazines or online resources.
     b. Gather Basic Information
   • Conduct inspections for geology, drainage, structural integrity, and hazardous materials.
   • Obtain surveys for topography and slope analysis.
   • Check permit history, HOA/CCRs, and any governmental requirements.
   • Secure CAD drawings for your existing home if applicable.
5. Planning Approvals
   • Develop site and floor plans with square footage estimates.
   • Design exterior elevations, landscape, and hardscape plans.
   • Obtain approvals for environmental and grading surveys.
6. City and Consultant Coordination
   • Schedule pre-inspections for demolition and grading.
   • Address permits for haul routes, utilities, and private street conditions.
7. Building Permit Preparation
   • Draft schedules for doors, windows, finishes, and interior elevations.
   • Work with engineers to create grading, drainage, and structural plans.
8. Plan Check Submittal
   • Submit plans for review, complete required corrections, and resubmit.
9. Finalize Working Drawings
   • Prepare comprehensive architectural plans.
   • Conduct asbestos surveys and notify AQMD if required.
10. Bidding and Contractor Selection
    • Secure contractor bids and finalize agreements.
    • Coordinate owner-supplied items and subcontractors.
11. Construction Administration (CA)
    • Oversee major construction milestones such as grading, foundations, framing, and system installations.
    • Ensure windows, roofing, and exterior finishes are installed correctly.
    • Complete interior finishes, cabinetry, and decorative elements.
12. Landscaping and Final Steps
    • Finalize landscaping, sprinkler systems, and exterior finishes.
    • Conduct final inspections and address punch-list items before move-in.

Additional Resources

For assistance with architects and permit expeditors, contact us.

We are here to support you during this challenging time. Together, we will rebuild and restore our community stronger than ever.

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