Los Angeles County Waives Permit Fees for Wildfire Survivors Rebuilding

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a motion, led by Chair Kathryn Barger, to defer and refund permitting and inspection fees for homeowners affected by the Eaton and Palisades wildfires, which destroyed over 7,400 structures and displaced thousands. This relief targets eligible homeowners who owned and lived in their properties prior to the fires, addressing fees that often exceed $20,000 and pose a significant financial barrier during the rebuilding process. County officials are also conducting a new fee study to explore cost-saving technologies and potential long-term funding sources, including federal aid and philanthropic partnerships, to sustain these waivers. Complementing these financial measures, the Angeles Recovery Collective offers free, personalized architectural and design support to wildfire survivors, helping them navigate complex rebuilding challenges. Additionally, a new rebuilding initiative launched in Altadena connects The Foothill Catalog Foundation's ready-to-go home designs with San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity’s construction efforts, aiming to streamline recovery and foster community healing. These combined efforts reflect the county’s commitment to easing the path to recovery for fire survivors and restoring hope in affected communities.