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Finally, California Governor Gavin Newsom (D) has taken action to aid the rebuilding efforts in the Pacific Palisades, after the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) consented to broaden the debris cleanup program. Specifically, FEMA agreed to extend the debris removal program, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), to encompass multi-family dwellings and commercial buildings, which were previously excluded and left to hire private contractors.
Just a day after Newsom made his request through the California Office of Emergency Services, FEMA not only agreed to expand the program but also extended the deadline for residents to “opt in” or “opt out” by signing to grant the “right of entry” (ROE) to the USACE on their properties.
https://twitter.com/TheKevinDalton/status/1905351387091009652
Until now, Newsom had been largely conspicuous by his absence and had distanced himself from the area’s water supply issues. He had also appeared to take credit for the rapid federal and local efforts to remove hazardous materials and debris from properties destroyed by wildfires.
The USACE debris removal program is “free” – although Los Angeles County later bills insured homeowners for debris removal. USACE contractors have an easier time obtaining permits for dumping debris into local landfills.
This stretch of Pacific Coast Highway previously contained some of the most desirable beachfront properties in the world. Very few structures survived the Palisades Fire. It’s questionable whether CA’s elected officials will actually allow these property owners to rebuild. pic.twitter.com/OUb6YPL5yi
— Soledad Ursua (@SoledadUrsua) March 3, 2025
Some homeowners prefer to hire private contractors, who may be able to work more quickly and thoroughly. However, they often face regulatory and logistical hurdles that those who “opt in” to the USACE do not have to deal with.
“If they do not have their debris cleared, the ruins of their homes could be declared a public nuisance and subjected to fines, since they would block neighbors from rebuilding,” L.A. Mayor Karen Bass warned residents last week.
