PACIFIC PALISADES—On January 27, LA County Recovery efforts began. The first phase of LA County Debris Removal is to go to the LA County Recovery website and either opt-in or opt-out of the Government-assisted debris removal which is a free service through the Army Corps of Engineers. Sign-up is happening now.
To opt out of the government assistance program in choosing to manage the cleanup independently and bear the costs. Debris removal can be costly and is not always covered by insurance.
The following contact information was provided on the LA County website.
1176389_EPAPhaseIHouseholdHazardousWasteFactSheet
“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:
Closure Date: March 31, 2025
Where to Get It:
Complete the opt-in form online: https://forms.office.com/g/Nm7XcLZJwq
Download and complete a form: https://file.lacounty.gov/SDSInter/lac/1176418_Opt-InForm.pdf
In-Person: Right of Entry forms are available at Disaster Recovery Centers.
How to Opt-Out:
Step 1: Fill out an opt-out form:
Complete the opt-out form online: https://forms.office.com/g/EXa8axWLvU
Download and complete an opt-out
form: https://file.lacounty.gov/SDSInter/lac/1176419_Opt-OutForm.pdf
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.
If you need help filling out your form or have additional questions, please call the LA County Public Works Fire Debris Hotline at 844-347-3332. You may also email PalisadesFire@dpw.lacounty.gov or EatonFire@dpw.lacounty.gov.
You may also visit a Disaster Recovery Center for in-person assistance. Disaster Recovery Centers are open to the public from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.”
What is included in what must be cleaned out properly in phase one is listed here including frequently asked questions, and more contact information.
Phase one is cost-free assistance by the Army Corps of Engineers. The cost-free option was something put into place by President Trump stated that he wanted to offer fire victims while at the roundtable in LA after after the fire. No permits are required for phase one.
By Sharon