“This unprecedented natural disaster requires an unprecedented response that will accelerate the rebuilding of homes, businesses and communities,” Bass said in a statement. “This order removes red tape and bureaucracy to plan with urgency, common sense and compassion. We will do everything we can to get Angelenos back home.”
Bass’ announcement comes a day after Gov. California’s Gavin Newsom issued an executive order with many of the same goals in mind. His goal is to have permits approved within 30 days, and the order directs agencies to waive laws related to state environmental laws.
That will help residents along the Pacific Palisades coast, which along with Altadena were hit hardest by the fire.
These two commands come with limitations. Eligible remodeling cannot exceed 110% of the home’s original size. Both emphasized the need to rebuild in a way that increases resilience to future wildfires, with Newsom’s order stating that rebuilding “must include measures to increase community resilience, strengthen homes, and ensure a safe environment to build resilience to future wildfires, on a larger scale.” it’s possible.”
However, there are no specific instructions in Newsom’s order related to durability in rebuilding burned homes.
The executive orders by the mayor and governor are certainly the first of many to be taken by state and local governments, especially as the fires continue to burn.
As of Tuesday evening, the Palisades Fire that has devastated Pacific Palisades has burned nearly 24,000 acres and is only 17% contained, according to the Los Angeles Times. The Eaton Fire in Altadena has burned just over 14,000 acres and is 35% contained.
Both fires continue to threaten residential areas, and dangerous Santa Ana winds remain in the forecast.
Although the two orders were largely met with approval, significant uncertainty remains about the situation. If things play out the way they have in other areas hit by natural disasters, there could be a whiplash effect in the housing market where activity slows down, followed by a rush of pent-up demand.
There is also the question of whether the residents who lost their homes will want to return. Since many insurance companies have withdrawn from issuing policies in the area, some residents may not be able to get home insurance. Rep. Maxine Waters (D) called for an investigation into the effects of wildfires on the insurance market.
Some residents may decide to take advantage of mortgage forbearance while looking for temporary housing.
Get all our news about the LA fires here.
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