Once hazardous materials are removed, owners of destroyed structures will have the opportunity to participate in a government-sponsored program to have their properties cleared of fire debris by the Army Corps of Engineers. Property owners who elect to opt-out of the government-sponsored program will be required to obtain County approval before removing any fire debris.

Contact the Army Corps of Engineers Hotline at (213) 308-8305 with any questions.

How to Opt-In:

Complete and submit the Right of Entry (ROE) form and authorize the government to manage debris removal on your property by March 31, 2025.

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.

Opt-In Form: https://file.lacounty.gov/SDSInter/lac/1176418_Opt-InForm.pdf

How to Opt-Out:

1. Fill out an opt-out form.
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.