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.
When both phases are complete, your property is ready for rebuilding.
Hazardous waste cleanup
In Phase 1, the U.S. EPA cleaned up everyday products that were in your home and could be dangerous.
These included:
- Batteries
- Cleaners and solvents
- Fertilizers and pesticides
- Paints and oils
- Propane tanks and other pressurized products
Phase 1 cleanup is now complete. It was automatic for all residential properties.
There was no cost to you for this cleanup.
Cleanup statuses explained
After the EPA assessed your property, they gave it a status.
They posted that status in a sign on your property.
You can also check this EPA map(external link) for the cleanup status of your property.
Phase 1 Complete
This status means the EPA has finished their cleanup work.
But your property may not be safe yet. There can still be
- Hazardous waste that’s buried
- Health hazards like ash and asbestos
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.
Debris removal
If you opt in for free debris removal in Phase 2, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) removes structural debris.
This includes:
- Damaged foundations
- Destroyed vehicles
- Trees that are a hazard
- Contaminated soil
- Asbestos
- Ash
Read what to expect in Phase 2(external link).
See the progress of this work in USACE’s debris removal map(external link).
Where debris goes
Workers will dispose of debris in a way that protects public health and the environment.
Find out more at CalEPA’s Wildfire Debris in Landfills(external link).
What you need to do
If you opted in
There are no out-of-pocket costs for this service. If you have insurance, your insurer will be billed.
During free debris removal, the USACE will remove trees that are hazardous. But you can ask them not to remove specific trees.
- About the waiver process
- Tree markings explained
- Waiver form(external link) (PDF)
If you opted out or missed the deadline
You’ll need to arrange for and pay for debris removal yourself. You must:
- Hire a licensed, specialized contractor
- Hire a certified consultant to check your property for asbestos
- Get a fire debris removal permit(external link) from LA County by June 1, 2025
- Make sure your contractor follows all government rules for safe debris removal
- Complete the debris removal process by June 30, 2025
If you need help
Questions about Phase 1 cleanup
Call the EPA at 833-798-7372 (TTY: 711)
Questions about Phase 2 debris removal
- Call the LA County Public Works Debris Removal Hotline at 844-347-3332 (TTY: 711)
- Email PalisadesFire@dpw.lacounty.gov or EatonFire@dpw.lacounty.gov