LA COUNTY REACHES KEY MILESTONE IN DEBRIS REMOVAL PROGRAM
LOS ANGELES, CA – Los Angeles County has reached a significant update in its Phase 2 debris removal process following the Eaton and Palisades wildfires. After releasing Right of Entry (ROE) forms for property owners to complete—granting the government permission to enter affected properties and begin essential cleanup operations—the County has begun transmitting validated forms to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to begin its work. Validation includes the careful review of submitted forms to verify property ownership, assuring the rights of residents are protected and guarding against potential fraud.
“Los Angeles County’s commitment to a swift recovery continues today with our Department of Public Works submitting their first verified batch of Right of Entry forms to the US Army Corps of Engineers,” said Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath. “The Army Corps is finalizing their construction contracts now and Phase 2 debris removal for the Palisades Fire will begin next week. All levels of government are coordinated, working urgently to ensure a full recovery from the Palisades Fire. Thank you to our community members who have already submitted their ROEs—Los Angeles County and our state and federal partners will be here every step of the way.”
Since the ROE forms were released, nearly 7,000 property owners have opted into the government-run debris removal program. This strong community response reflects a shared determination to restore neighborhoods affected by these wildfires. The prompt response from property owners, combined with the County’s capacity to act quickly, has been key in reaching this milestone.
Validated ROEs are transmitted electronically to the Army Corps of Engineers. If there are any issues with a submission, a County representative will contact the property owner to resolve them; if the form is in order, the Army Corps of Engineers will notify the owner 3-5 days before debris removal is scheduled for that property.
In light of this progress, the Army Corps of Engineers has reported that debris removal on private property will begin next week, marking a significant milestone in the recovery efforts for the communities affected by the Eaton and Palisades fires.
Los Angeles County continues to encourage all eligible property owners to submit their ROE forms promptly. Increased participation will further assist the County and Army Corps of Engineers in prioritizing and expediting debris removal so communities can begin the process of rebuilding. For more information, including how to submit an ROE form, visit recovery.lacounty.gov.
