Key Benefits for Homeowners
1. Faster Permitting & No Extra Reviews
One-Stop Disaster Recovery Permitting Center: A special permitting center will be set up in fire-affected areas to fast-track approvals.
No CEQA Review Delays: Environmental review under California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) is waived, which speeds up the process.
Bypasses Local Discretionary Reviews: No need for extra city approvals—permits will be processed as long as the home is rebuilt similarly to the original.
All Permit Reviews Completed in 30 Days: If your home was destroyed, the city must review your application within 30 days.
Building Inspections Within 2 Business Days: After submitting a request, inspections will happen within 48 hours.
Utility Approvals in 5 Business Days: Connections for power, water, and sewer will be processed in 5 days for rebuild projects.
2. Rebuild “Like-for-Like” Homes with Fewer Restrictions
Homes Can Be Rebuilt Up to 110% of Their Original Size:
If your home was destroyed, you can rebuild up to 110% of its original square footage, height, and bulk without additional approvals.
If you want to build larger than 110%, you’ll need to follow current zoning rules.
You Can Restore Non-Conforming Homes:
If your home was legally built but no longer meets zoning codes, you can rebuild it exactly as it was without having to follow new zoning rules.
3. Temporary Housing on Your Property Allowed for 3+ Years
You can live in an RV, tiny home, mobile home, or modular unit on your lot while your home is being rebuilt.
You don’t need a special permit to place a storage unit or shed on your property for up to three years.
4. City-Led Debris Removal & Hazard Mitigation
Debris Removal Task Force: A city team will oversee debris removal at no cost to homeowners in most cases.
Soil & Water Safety Measures: A task force will assess post-fire risks like flash floods, mudslides, and debris flows.
Demolition Permit Not Required: You can demolish a fire-damaged home without getting a separate permit, but you must notify the city online first.
5. More Housing Units to Be Approved Immediately
Temporary Certificates of Occupancy (TCO) for 1,400+ Units: The city will fast-track approval of nearly 1,400 housing units already under construction to help displaced families find housing sooner.
Multi-Family Housing Construction Expedited: If you were planning to build apartments or multi-unit housing, your permits will be prioritized.
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