Newsom streamlines permitting laws to accelerate reconstruction in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, California – In a decisive move to accelerate recovery for communities devastated by recent wildfires, Governor Gavin Newsom has issued a sweeping executive order aimed at eliminating bureaucratic barriers to rebuilding homes in Los Angeles. The order further streamlines permitting laws, providing homeowners and local governments with the flexibility needed to fast-track reconstruction.

Newsom’s latest action builds upon previous executive orders that temporarily lifted stringent regulations under the California Coastal Act and the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). These suspensions, which were initially designed to expedite emergency housing and temporary shelter, have now been expanded to ensure permanent rebuilding efforts can proceed without unnecessary delays.

““We will not let overly strict regulations get in the way of rebuilding these communities. The state stands with its local partners to ensure that we cut red tape and make recovery as easy as possible.”,” Newsom stated.

A key aspect of the new order clarifies and extends permitting exemptions under CEQA and the Coastal Act, making it easier for local governments to approve rebuilding efforts. The order also includes additional provisions to help homeowners access original building plans, extend the validity of construction permits, and allow recently built homes that met modern safety codes to be reconstructed to their original specifications without additional regulatory hurdles.

“I will not allow red tape to stand in the way of Angelenos who want to rebuild their homes,” said Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. “From allowing LA to automatically reissue permits for homes built in the last few years to quickly getting copies of building plans in the hands of residents who lost theirs in the fire, I am proud to partner with Governor Newsom to help Angelenos get back home.”

Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of regulatory relief for impacted homeowners. “This executive order ensures that families can rebuild efficiently and without unnecessary delays,” Barger said. “By clarifying permit waivers, streamlining access to original plans, and extending key deadlines, the state is proving itself to be a committed partner in our local recovery efforts.”

Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath also applauded Newsom’s leadership, noting that the collaboration between state and local officials is essential to getting residents back on their feet. “Governor Newsom is once again stepping up for Los Angeles County in our moment of greatest need,” she said. “We will continue this successful, coordinated partnership to deliver results our communities deserve.”

The executive order specifically:

• Clarifies previous waivers of permitting requirements under CEQA and the Coastal Act, ensuring that local planning decisions determine eligibility for these suspensions.
• Allows homeowners to rebuild recently constructed homes to their pre-fire specifications without additional approval.
• Speeds up access to original building plans, preventing unnecessary delays in reconstruction.
• Extends deadlines for construction permits, reducing administrative burdens on homeowners.
• Provides local governments additional flexibility to focus on rebuilding efforts instead of zoning and housing element compliance deadlines.

For many Los Angeles residents still reeling from the destruction, these measures offer much-needed relief. With the state removing layers of bureaucracy, families can begin rebuilding their homes and communities without facing frustrating roadblocks. Newsom’s directive signals a strong commitment to ensuring wildfire-affected areas recover swiftly and efficiently, proving that when disaster strikes, California is ready to act.