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LA County supervisors want to speed up process for rebuilding permits in Altadena
An aerial view of Altadena showing several cleared properties amongst many more awaiting to be cleared of debris and rubble from the Eaton Fire on April 7, 2025.
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Brian Feinzimer
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LAist
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Topline:
The L.A. County Board of Supervisors has voted to create a "Unified Permitting Authority" aimed at cutting red tape for wildfire survivors who need to rebuild their homes.
Why now: According to the L.A. County Board of Supervisor's Coordinated Joint Information Center, to date, only one single-family home rebuilding permit has been issued in Altadena.
Why it matters: The fast-moving Eaton Fire destroyed an estimated 9,400 structures in the Altadena area. Permit delays affect residents who are already dealing with the effects of displacement and property loss.
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The details: Supervisors Barger and Lindsey Horvath introduced a motion calling for the creation of a UPA within the already existing Altadena One-Stop Recovery Permitting Center. The UPA will have the power to “resolve interdepartmental permitting conflicts” and the “authority to make binding decisions on permit conditions, code interpretations, and regulatory discrepancies.”
What's next: In an email statement, the board's Coordinated Joint Information Center said the permitting process will vary, based on each project’s complexity. "[A]fter zoning has been approved for land use and location, we are committed to reviewing residential rebuild plans within 10 business days for the initial review and 5 business days for any additional reviews," the center added.
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