Altadena Community Meeting Selected Summary – Hosted by LA County Board of Supervisors (2/17/2025)

YouTube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Nf1zJGBk1k

  1. FEMA Debris Removal & Insurance Coverage
  • FEMA deducts debris removal coverage from your insurance, as it cannot duplicate benefits.
  • By opting in, you are not using insurance funds for debris removal, so any unused funds must be handed over to FEMA.
  • However, insurance can still cover additional cleanup, such as leftover debris or pool remediation, before any remaining funds are given to FEMA.
  1. Debris Removal Permits
  • No permits are required for removing debris outside the ash footprint.
  1. ROE (Right-of-Entry) Form Processing
  • The county has contracted Tetra Tech to expedite ROE processing.
  • While there is a 48-hour recommended response time for clarification requests, missing this deadline will not disqualify your application. If additional information is needed, you will receive a follow-up call.
  1. Property Surveyors
  • To accelerate rebuilding efforts, the county is hiring additional personnel.
  • Many professional organizations have offered pro bono services, and the county is working to integrate them into the process.
  1. Rebuilding Code Compliance
  • Rebuilding must comply with updated codes, particularly Chapter 7A, which governs construction in the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI). These standards include wildfire mitigation measures to reduce ignition risks from embers, flames, and radiant heat.
  1. Property Sales & Development Restrictions
  • There are no restrictions on who can purchase lots for sale.
  • However, zoning regulations remain in effect, preventing the conversion of single-family dwellings into condominiums.