From faster permits to new defensible space rules, California is racing to reduce wildfire risk following one of the costliest disasters in U.S. history.
One year after deadly wildfires swept through Los Angeles County and destroyed thousands of homes, Southern California is working to rebuild and prevent future fires from becoming as catastrophic.
On Jan. 7, 2025, the first of a dozen wildfires ignited near the Palisades, fueled by strong Santa Ana winds and sending families scrambling to evacuate. After the fires were contained — including blazes in Eaton Canyon near Altadena — an estimated $275 billion in damage was left behind, and 31 lives were lost.
A year later, officials with the California government say rebuilding is underway, with permit reviews now taking an average of 30 days. As of Jan. 6, more than 6,100 permit applications had been submitted, with more than 2,600 approved by city and county agencies, according to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office…