FEMA Extends Debris Cleanup Deadline for Southern California Wildfire Victims

Extended Deadline for Debris Cleanup

• 🗓️ The deadline for wildfire victims to join a government debris cleanup program has been extended, offering crucial breathing room for property owners.
• 📌 Property owners now have until April 15th to submit Right of Entry forms, allowing the Army Corps of Engineers to clear damaged properties.
• ⚠️ Officials urge wildfire victims to act fast, as the window for government-funded help is quickly closing.

Expanded Program Eligibility

• 🏘️ The cleanup program has been expanded to include condos and multifamily units, as well as houses of worship and nonprofits.
• 🏢 This expansion means that commercial properties and non-profits are now eligible for the debris removal assistance.

Program Participation and Choices

• ✅ So far, 9,800 property owners from the Eaton and Palisades fires have opted into the government's debris removal program, with another 1,000 opting out.
• ❓ Approximately 1,200 property owners have yet to submit the necessary forms.
• 💡 Property owners have the choice to opt into the government program or manage cleanup with a private permitted contractor themselves.

Support and Resources Available

• 🤝 LA County leaders are urging property owners to respond immediately, emphasizing that if unsure about plans, submitting the form is advisable.
• 🗣️ Outreach efforts are being stepped up to inform victims about the available assistance, acknowledging that many are overwhelmed with decisions about insurance and rebuilding.
• 📈 For those navigating recovery, LA County Recovers is hosting a Wildfire Recovery and Rebuilt Conference today, covering topics from debris removal to tax obligations.

Other Important Deadlines and Initiatives

• ⚡ While the debris removal form deadline is extended, the deadline to apply for FEMA grants and SBA loans remains March 31st.
• 🚧 Supervisor Kathryn Barger plans to file a motion to speed up permitting delays, calling the current pace unacceptable and aiming to clear red tape.