In response to the devastating 2025 Southern California Fires, including the Palisades, Eaton, Hurst, Kenneth, and Lidia Fires, the Los Angeles County Health Officer has issued an order prohibiting the removal of fire debris without prior hazardous materials inspection.

More details on the current process and health orders can be found in this news article or from the County here.

Key points of the order:

  • Fire debris removal is prohibited until a hazardous materials inspection is conducted by an approved government agency.
  • Fire debris, ash, and soil from burned structures may contain hazardous substances such as asbestos and heavy metals.

The debris removal process will occur in two phases:

  • Phase 1: Household & Flammable Hazardous Waste Inspections & Removal, which must be conducted by government agencies.
  • Phase 2: Asbestos Abatement & Fire Debris Removal, which property owners can opt into or hire qualified contractors such as REI to perform.

The order applies only to the removal of fire debris and does not restrict the removal of personal property. Homeowners considering self-performance of cleanup must obtain necessary approvals and comply with all local, state, and federal regulations.

The Governor and County have engaged the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to lead debris removal efforts, but if a homeowner wishes to perform the cleanup independently, REI can provide assistance – see below “Instructions for Homeowners Opting Out and Completing Debris Removal with Private Contractors.” If not, we may see you on the front lines, ensuring safe and efficient cleanup operations.

For up-to-date information, disaster maps and recovery resources, you can visit the LA County Recovers page at this link. You can also learn more from FEMA Region 9 here.

If you have opted to handle debris removal independently rather than participating in the government-run Phase 2 Debris Removal program, here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.

Step 1: Retain a Certified Asbestos Consultant (CAC) and Obtain an Asbestos Survey

WHY:

  • Regardless of your property’s age, an asbestos survey is legally required for demolition and debris removal due to regulatory requirements under South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 1403 and federal regulations (NESHAP).
  • Note: US EPA removes household hazardous waste and bulk asbestos that is easily identifiable. SCAQMD requires a survey regardless of Phase 1 clearance.

HOW:

  • Hire a Certified Asbestos Consultant (CAC) to perform an asbestos survey.
  • A copy of the asbestos survey/report is required to move forward with the debris removal process.
  • If asbestos is found, REI can provide pricing and perform the abatement.

Reference: SCAQMD Asbestos Information


Step 2: Decide on Foundation and Pool Removal

  • Foundation: You need to decide whether to retain your existing foundation. If you keep it, a structural engineer may need to confirm it is safe and reusable.
  • Pool: Decide if you want your swimming pool removed as part of the debris removal.

Step 3: Obtain Pricing and Hire Contractors

Asbestos Abatement:

  • If asbestos is discovered by the required asbestos survey, you must hire a licensed asbestos abatement contractor to properly remove and dispose of the material in compliance with all regulations.

  • REI is fully licensed and experienced in both asbestos abatement and debris removal. Contact us for pricing and scope options tailored to your project needs—both services can be coordinated for efficiency.
  • However, if your structure is newer, the likelihood of asbestos being present is low.

Debris Removal:

  • Hire a qualified local contractor with the appropriate licensing for debris removal. The City and County mandate a HAZ license from the Contractors State License Board for all wildfire debris removal work, along with full compliance with Cal/OSHA HAZWOPER regulations. REI is fully licensed and experienced in providing these services.
  • If not hiring REI, verify that your contractor is familiar with fire debris removal regulations; is properly licensed; is approved by the City and/or County for debris removal; and understands the requirements from Los Angeles County, SCAQMD, and Cal/OSHA.

Step 4: Opt-Out of the Government Phase 2 Debris Removal Program

HOW:

  • Complete the Right of Entry (ROE) Opt-Out Process with Los Angeles County.
  • A copy of the submitted Opt-Out Form is required to move forward with the debris removal process.

Reference: LA County Recovers – ROE Opt-Out

Step 5: Obtain Phase 1 EPA Clearance (US EPA)

WHY:

  • The Phase 1 debris removal includes the removal of hazardous waste and is typically managed by EPA. This clearance is necessary to proceed with Phase 2 work.

HOW:

  • Ensure that EPA has provided a Phase 1 clearance placard at your property.
  • A clear photo of this placard is required to remove forward with the debris removal process.
  • If your property was deferred in Phase 1, REI is capable of assisting in completing this work and it will be included in our pricing – so long as there are not excessive amounts of Household Hazardous Waste on the property (i.e. significant number of batteries, electric vehicles, etc.).
  • Guidance from Waste Management, the landfill owner, is still pending on what may be needed for landfill acceptance to certify Phase 1 completion for deferred contractors.

Reference: Phase 1 Information – LA Recovers (You can check the status of your property here)

Step 6: Apply for a Debris Removal Approval (LA City/County)

HOW:

  • Obtain the required permit through the EPIC-LA platform. The form is now available. You will need to upload your asbestos survey, Opt-Out forms, and have the following information readily available: CAC Name and License # (from survey), Contractor Information, Owner Information.
  • Proof of City or County approval is required to move forward with the debris removal process.

Reference: Right of Entry Forms – LA County Recovers | Apply for Permit – EPIC


Step 7: Notify the City & County of Los Angeles to Gain Approval (LA City)

WHY:

  • The City of Los Angeles requires homeowners to notify them of any demolition work on their property under the Mayor’s Executive Order 1. The mayor’s Executive Order waived the customary demolition permit requirements for properties affected by the wildfires, but notification and the letter generated after the notification are required to move forward.

  • A copy of the letter generated after notification should be submitted to REI prior to the commencement of work, as this may be required for landfill acceptance and proper compliance.

HOW:

  • Create an Angeleno Account and submit your demolition notification.

Reference: Home Page | LADBS


Step 8: Submit Required Documentation to REI

What to Provide:

Documentation proving completion of each step, including:

  • CAC asbestos survey
  • Signed contract with REI for debris removal services
  • Copy of Opt-Out Form(s)
  • Phase 1 EPA clearance (or confirmation that deferred properties are being handled appropriately)
  • Permit approval from LA County to proceed with Phase 2 Debris Removal.
  • Letter generated from LADBS upon Notification of Demolition (for properties within the City of Los Angeles and Pacific Palisades)

Next Steps

Once all documentation is provided and a contract is signed, REI will begin the waste profiling process and schedule you for debris removal. REI will also file the required “emergency demolition” notification with SCAQMD. Contact us when you are ready to move forward.

Additional Resources

This instruction set is designed to guide you through the complex but critical process of handling post-fire debris removal on your own terms. For further assistance, contact Resource Environmental, Inc. at PalisadesFire@resource-env.com or request a proposal below.


CLICK BELOW FOR REI PROPOSAL REQUEST AND PROPERTY INFORMATION FORM


Disaster Debris Removal

Disaster Debris Removal Services

Resource Environmental, Inc. (REI) has extensive experience managing large-scale disaster debris removal operations across California. Our team has successfully completed projects throughout the State of California, playing a critical role in recovery efforts for major incidents such as the Bobcat Fire in Los Angeles County, the SQF Complex Fire in Tulare County, and the Mountain View Fire in Mono County. REI also served as the prime contractor for the Mosquito Fire Disaster Debris Removal Contract in Placer County. Our comprehensive approach ensures efficient and compliant cleanup efforts that prioritize public safety and environmental stewardship.

Proven Expertise in Disaster Debris Removal

Over the past five years, REI has delivered exceptional results under various disaster debris removal contracts, including statewide initiatives and county-specific operations. Our experience encompasses a wide range of services, from hazardous materials abatement to debris hauling and regulatory compliance. We specialize in developing tailored solutions to address the unique challenges of each project, ensuring seamless execution and successful outcomes. Our capabilities include:

  • Structural debris and hazardous materials removal.
  • Waste profiling, transportation, and disposal.
  • Navigating complex regulatory requirements to secure necessary approvals.
  • Implementing best practices for environmental protection and erosion control.
  • Maximizing recycling efforts to enhance project value and sustainability.

Our commitment to excellence has earned us recognition from government agencies and project stakeholders for our efficiency, safety, and professionalism.

Turn-Key Solutions for Homeowners and Insurance Coordination

In addition to large-scale government contracts, REI offers personalized services for individual property owners. We understand the complexities involved in working with insurance companies and obtaining county approvals. Our team provides a seamless process from start to finish, ensuring compliance with all local government regulations, including:

  • Engaging certified hazardous material consultants for testing and oversight.
  • Implementing temporary Best Management Practices (BMPs) for erosion control.
  • Performing debris removal in accordance with stringent regulatory conditions.
  • Separating recyclable materials to maximize project value and cost efficiency.
  • Hauling hazardous ash and debris to approved landfill facilities.
  • Conducting contaminated soil removal and confirmation sampling.

Our goal is to support our clients every step of the way, providing expert guidance to navigate the regulatory landscape and achieve full project approval and sign-off.

Why Choose REI?

With our extensive experience, commitment to safety, and deep understanding of regulatory requirements, REI is the ideal partner for disaster debris removal. Whether working on large-scale government projects or assisting individual homeowners, we bring the same level of dedication and expertise to every job.

Contact us today (DisasterResponse@resource-env.com) to learn how we can help you restore your property safely and efficiently.