Clearing Debris & Recovery
Phase 1: Household Hazardous Waste Removal
Underway Week of 1/27/25
Cannot Opt-Out of Phase 1
Phase 2: General Debris Removal
Option 1: Opt-In to the Government-Run Debris Removal Program
How to Opt-In:
Step 1: Complete and submit the Right of Entry (ROE) form and authorize the government to manage debris removal on your property.
ROE Form Availability:
Release Date: January 28, 2025
Closure Date: March 31, 2025
Where to Get It:
Fill Out or Download Online: recovery.lacounty.gov
In Person: We will also be making them available at the local Disaster Recovery Centers in the next few days.
What Opting In Entails: By opting in, you authorize the government to perform the following activities on your property:
Property Assessment: Identify site hazards, hazardous trees, environmental resources, and asbestos-containing materials.
Asbestos Removal: Safely remove asbestos-containing materials if required.
Tree Removal: Remove fire or wind-damaged trees assessed as hazardous and other trees that impact public areas or debris removal access.
Ash and Soil Removal: Remove surface ash, including up to 6 inches of incidental soil.
Burned Debris Removal: Remove burned home remains, furniture, personal belongings, appliances, and patio furniture.
Structural Demolition: Demolish clearly destroyed structures.
Vehicle Removal: Remove damaged and destroyed vehicles, vessels, and other titled property.
Erosion Control: Install erosion control measures such as straw wattles, compost socks, and hydromulch.
Environmental Monitoring: Conduct tribal, archaeological, and biological monitoring for environmental and historical preservation.
Potential Foundation Removal:
Your Choice: When you opt into the debris removal program, you will need to decide whether you want the government to remove your property’s foundation or leave it in place.
Property Assessment: A site visit will be conducted to evaluate your foundation and discuss the best option for your property with you before any debris removal begins.
Option 2: Opt-Out and Manage Cleanup Independently
How to Opt-Out:
Step 1: Fill out an opt-out form.
Step 2: Apply for a Permit from the County in EPIC-LA to handle debris removal on your own after you receive EPA certification of phase 1 completion for your property.
Step 3:The County will review your application and your contractor’s work plan to ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards.
You will be required to meet all the same requirements as USACE.
Once approved, you can begin to manage the debris removal independently.
Costs: You will be responsible for any costs of the removal that exceed your insurance settlement amount for debris removal.
Additional Resources:
LA County Debris Removal Information & Right of Entry Forms: Due March 31, 2025
Call 844-347-3332