California: In Altadena, Governor Newsom joins federal and state leaders to launch new phase of firestorm debris removal
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~ In Altadena, Governor Gavin Newsom joined federal and state leaders on February 11, 2025 to launch a new phase of firestorm debris removal. This marks the fastest large-scale debris removal in modern state history, beginning in just 35 days after the fires ignited. This is roughly half the time it took to start similar operations after the devastating 2018 Woolsey Fire.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) began private property debris removal on Tuesday morning in Altadena and Tuesday afternoon in Pacific Palisades. They have been closely coordinating efforts with local officials to ensure a smooth and efficient process. The Governor also highlighted the completion of debris removal from an Altadena K-8 school, which was the site of this morning's announcement.

Governor Newsom expressed his gratitude towards the state and federal workers who are working at record-pace to clear debris so that firestorm survivors can begin rebuilding their lives as quickly and safely as possible. Under his leadership, California has expedited the cleanup process by cutting red tape and eliminating bureaucratic barriers. This has allowed highly trained crews to enter impacted communities sooner and help survivors rebuild faster.

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The Los Angeles County Department of Public Works, in partnership with six locally affected jurisdictions, has been working tirelessly to collect Right-of-Entry (ROE) forms from residents, develop haul routes, and coordinate safe transport of fire ash and debris.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has also played a crucial role in this process by rapidly completing the removal of household hazardous materials at record speed. This has cleared the way for the current phase of structural debris removal.

Last month, Governor Newsom announced that FEMA had tasked the EPA with safely removing and disposing of hazardous materials from homes and structures impacted by the fires. This important first step paved the way for the structural debris removal that is now underway.

As these operations continue, residents should expect to see an increased presence of debris removal teams in their communities and should plan accordingly. The agencies involved appreciate the public's support and patience as crews work to eliminate health and safety risks from impacted properties.

Since the fires began, Governor Newsom has led an aggressive, coordinated, whole-of-government response to support impacted communities. Prior to the fires breaking out, the state had already deployed thousands of firefighters and personnel, with more than 16,000 boots on the ground at the peak of response efforts. In the days that followed, the state launched historic recovery and rebuilding efforts to ensure Los Angeles communities receive the support they need.

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Fire survivors can sign up for the federal debris removal program by visiting a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) or online at ca.gov/LAFires. The state continues to upgrade CA.gov/LAfires to provide more resources and information for firestorm survivors.

In addition, Governor Newsom has sponsored new legislation that would allow homeowners who receive insurance payments for lost or damaged property to receive interest accrued rather than lenders. This is part of ongoing efforts to provide support and assistance to those affected by the fires.

The Governor also announced a new dashboard on CA.gov/LAfires that will track LA's recovery progress. This will provide accountability and transparency as recovery efforts continue. A new services finder has also been added to connect firestorm survivors with resources they may need during this difficult time.

As California continues its recovery efforts in Los Angeles, Governor Newsom remains committed to supporting those affected by these devastating fires. He encourages all fire survivors to take advantage of available resources and services by visiting ca.gov/LAFires.

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