Cleanup and debris removal
2025 Los Angeles Fires

Cleanup and debris removal after wildfires is a 2-phase process. You can have it done at no cost to you.

Phase 1: Hazardous waste cleanup Phase 2: Debris removal Phase 2: Debris removal

We will explain these phases. When they are complete, your property is ready for rebuilding.

Phase 1

Hazardous waste cleanup

In Phase 1, the U.S. EPA cleans up everyday products that were in your home and can be dangerous.

These include:

  • Batteries
  • Cleaners and solvents
  • Fertilizers and pesticides
  • Paints and oils
  • Propane tanks and other pressurized products

How to get cleanup

Phase 1 is automatic for all residential properties.

There's no cost to you for this cleanup.

You don't need to do anything for Phase 1 cleanup to begin.

Cleanup statuses explained

Properties are being assessed and cleaned up by the EPA now.

Once your property has been assessed by the EPA, it will have a status.

The status will be posted in a sign on your property.

You can also check this EPA map for the cleanup status of your property.

Phase 1 Complete

This status means the EPA has finished their cleanup work.

Your property may not be safe yet. There can still be:

  • Hazardous waste that's buried
  • Health hazards like ash and asbestos
OR

Deferred to Phase 2

This status means the EPA can't safely clean your property until debris has been removed.

It will be cleaned in Phase 2.

Track Phase 1 progress

Phase 2

Debris removal

In Phase 2, workers remove structural debris.

This includes:

  • Damaged foundations
  • Destroyed vehicles
  • Dead trees
  • Contaminated soil
  • Asbestos
  • Ash

Experts also:

  • Test the remaining soil to make sure it's safe
  • Place mulch to prevent erosion

How to get debris removed

To get debris removed, you must choose to:

Opt in for free removal OR Opt out to arrange and pay for removal yourself

There are no out-of-pocket costs for this service. If you have insurance, your insurer will be billed.

Debris removal cannot start until Phase 1 cleanup is completed or deferred by the EPA.

Opt in by the deadline

To get free debris removal, you must opt in by March 31, 2025.

Opt in for free removal

To complete the opt-in form, you'll need:

  • Contact info and signatures of all owners of the property
  • Assessor's information number, or AIN
  • Homeowners insurance information (if you're insured)
  • Vehicle information for any destroyed vehicles on the property

Opt out at your own expense

If you opt out of free debris removal, you'll arrange for and pay for this service yourself.

This process is complicated and expensive. You must:

  • Hire a licensed, specialized contractor
  • Get approval and a permit from LA County
  • Hire a certified consultant to check your property for asbestos
  • Make sure your contractor follows all government rules for safe debris removal

How to opt out

If you choose to opt out, submit an opt-out form to LA County right away.

It's important to submit this form so that the county can start free debris removal for your neighbors.

You will need:

  • Name and license number of your contractor
  • Description of the debris you need to remove
  • Assessor's information number, or AIN

If you need help

Questions about Phase 1 cleanup

Call the EPA at 833-798-7372 (TTY: 711)

Help filling out the opt-in form

More info about cleanup and debris removal

LA County Recovers