Now that Phase 1 is underway and Phase 2 is slated to begin as soon as feasible (as determined by the officials), residents must decide whether they wish to Opt-IN or Opt-OUT for the Phase 2 debris removal that will be performed by the Army Corps of Engineers.
The process for Phase 2 is as follows:
Phase 2: Comprehensive Debris Removal Program
Phase 2 focuses on the removal of structural debris, foundations, hazardous trees, and contaminated soil.
- Start Date: Phase 2 begins on January 28, 2025 with forms available at the Disaster Recovery Center. They will also soon be available online at recovery.lacounty.gov.
How to Opt-In:
- Verify property ownership with the County.
- Submit your ROE form at the DRC beginning January 28 or soon online at recovery.lacounty.gov.
Opt-Out Option: Property owners can opt out by submitting their decision at recovery.lacounty.gov (coming soon). Property owners will have 60 days to opt-out.
Private Debris Removal
If you choose private debris removal, here’s what to expect:
- Hire private contractors who meet strict certification guidelines for hazardous material removal.
- Once a property owner opts out, they cannot later opt-in.
- Private contractors will file one permit managed by the County to ensure safety.
Please click the link below to learn more and to download and complete whichever form you wish to submit depending on whether you want the debris removed for you at no charge* (Opt-IN) or whether you want to hire your own contractor to remove the debris out of your pocket (Opt-OUT).
https://recovery.lacounty.gov/debris-removal/
*NOTE: Depending on your Insurance Policy, there may be a line item called Debris Removal (or something like that). If so, that amount may be allocated from your insurance company to the appropriate debris removal entity.
