You have questions. We have answers.

• Stay safe: wait for clearance before re-entry.
• Document damage: photos and video before cleanup.
• Call insurance: open a claim quickly.
• Secure the property: boards, tarps, temporary fencing if needed.

County Fire states ~10 business days, and other agencies report the same. “Like for Like” generally means an in-kind rebuild with up to a 10% increase in area, size, bulk, or height (without exceeding zoning maximums). Those projects qualify for expedited review.

Expect to submit to LADBS (City of Los Angeles), or to the County or Malibu depending on jurisdiction. Projects deemed “exempt” may require less review, but documentation must prove conformance. Even exempt projects must meet current building, fire, and energy codes. How Malibu and the County enforce fire department requirements can vary, so timelines and costs may differ.

Yes. Even exempt projects must comply with today’s building, fire, energy, and erosion control codes. For example, wood-burning fireplaces or gas appliances restricted by the California Residential Code (CRC) cannot be reintroduced. Many insurance policies include coverage for these code-required upgrades.

Generally, yes — existing utilities may remain if still functional. Septic systems, however, must be field certified or improved with health department approval before a new permit is issued. In some areas, separate fire sprinkler water meters may be required and can be costly.

Yes. New construction in Los Angeles requires sprinklers, typically with a dedicated copper line and trench.

Possibly. Square footage must follow permit records, but height changes up to 10% may be allowed if within zoning maximums. Proof of previous permitted height is key. If drawings or records are missing, aerials or property listings may be used. Determining whether a rebuild is “exempt” depends on this analysis.

Yes, but you must provide proof of legal non-conformance from permit files. Portions of the footprint may shift, but existing grandfathered conditions must be documented.

Garages destroyed by fire can potentially be converted into ADUs/JADUs. The approach is to treat the garage as if it had not burned down, preparing conversion drawings that meet current ADU standards. Parking requirements will follow current Los Angeles ADU rules.

Yes, at minimum you’ll need erosion control plans while lots sit vacant. Burned or “heritage” trees may require arborist reports. Replacing street trees is often mandatory. Before erosion controls are removed, grading and drainage plans must be approved. Final landscaping must comply with current fire-safe planting guidelines.

LID requirements depend on lot size. Grading and drainage plans are usually required whether soil is moved or not. Mudslide debris removal may qualify under emergency ordinances, but if the rebuild is not exempt, full grading reviews may apply.

Many Los Angeles projects run 12–24 months end to end depending on scope and approvals.

• Review coverage: replacement cost, debris removal, code upgrades.
• Expect gaps: some safety upgrades may not be fully covered.
• Check relief: look for state or federal assistance when available.

• Early consults and scope planning
• Resilient design aligned with local code
• Coordination with engineers, contractors, LADBS
• Permit guidance and documentation
• Project management through construction