Governor Newsom’s Executive Order Aims to Help Rebuilding Efforts After Wildfires
Governor Newsom has signed an Executive Order to expedite recovery efforts in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties following devastating wildfires that have destroyed or damaged over 12,000 structures. Efforts are still underway to get these fires under control.
This order suspends certain environmental regulations to facilitate rapid rebuilding in affected areas.
What You Need to Know
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and certain Coastal Act permitting requirements are suspended for rebuilding projects in fire-affected areas.
This suspension applies to properties being rebuilt in substantially the same location and not exceeding 110% of the original footprint and height.
Price gouging protections for building materials, housing services, and reconstruction services are extended until January 7, 2026.
The state aims to streamline permitting processes, with a goal of issuing all necessary permits within 30 days.
The order calls for reviews of building codes and permitting requirements to identify potential barriers to rebuilding.
How It Impacts You
People can expect a more streamlined rebuilding process for affected properties, potentially reducing delays and costs associated with environmental reviews.
The extended price gouging protections may help stabilize costs for rebuilding and renovation projects over the next year.
Be prepared for possible updates to building codes and permitting processes, which may affect future construction and renovation projects.
Stay Connected
Stay connected to BOMA on the Frontline for updates on wildfire recovery efforts like these.
Our coalition is working with the California Department of Housing and Community Development and Building Standards Commission on code and permitting issues.
As well as any legislative fixes that may be needed to better recovery efforts for our members.
