The Los Angeles Post

One Year Later: Recovery, Resilience and Lessons Learned After the January 2025 Wildfires

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Los Angeles County joins with our communities in marking one year since the 2025 Eaton and Palisades wildfires devastated the region, claiming 31 lives and destroying thousands of homes and businesses. Over the past 12 months, County departments and our partners have been working hard to help residents and businesses rebuild and recover from the most destructive wildfire disaster in LA County history.

A new website provides a look back at the impact of the fires, a progress report on what has been accomplished over the last 12 months, and lessons learned. Key information and video resources for the public and media include:

  • Video messages from Supervisors Kathryn Barger and Lindsey P. Horvath reflecting on the fires’ impact on their communities and the recovery process now underway.
  • Videos highlighting residents’ rebuilding journeys, including the first family in West Altadena to complete their rebuild and receive a certificate of occupancy.
  • Overview of extensive financial assistance provided to residents, businesses and workers.
  • Lessons learned and new programs implemented as LA County enhances the way it prepares and responds to emergencies.
  • Highlights from LA County Forward: The Blueprint for Rebuilding, outlining the County’s commitment to an all-sectors recovery approach, partnering with state and federal agencies, private industry, philanthropy, and community organizations to advance six priority pillars for community rebuilding. Over the past six months, the County has taken concrete action by tripling permitting speed, reducing and deferring fees to save residents up to $30,000, supporting dislocated workers, and distributing more than $55 million to stabilize small businesses and restore essential services.
  • Key milestones of LA County Recovers, established in January 2025 to coordinate efforts across County departments and partner with federal, state and local resource agencies to help residents navigate the recovery and rebuilding process. At newly created One-Stop Permit Centers, residents can meet directly with County staff to discuss rebuilding plans and obtain permits. Over the past year:
    • More than 2,800 permit applications have been submitted.
    • More than 1,100 rebuilding permits have been issued to residents moving forward with reconstruction.
    • One-Stop Permit Centers have assisted more than 14,000 residents throughout the year.

The website also includes links to the following fact sheets and information: