Wildfire Recovery Resources for LA Families
Helping LA Recover: Support After the Wildfires
The recent wildfires in Los Angeles have left many families facing the difficult task of rebuilding their homes and lives. At Ashley & Vance Engineering, we empathize with those affected, including our own team members, and are here to support our community during this challenging time. We’re ready to offer guidance through the rebuilding process, from safety assessments to the building phase. Below, you’ll find helpful resources, and if you ever have questions, we’re here if you need us.
Our services for wildfire affected homes in LA.
- Provide expert civil and structural design services for rebuilding homes and infrastructure
- Whether it’s repair or replacement, we can help determine a realistic project approach
- Streamlined plan review for wildfire recovery: Sean Galbreath, SE (Principal Engineer in the AV LA Office) has been accepted by LA County Public Works as a Self-Certified Building Plan Professional. This allows us to offer an expedited plan review process for qualifying rebuild projects in unincorporated LA County affected by the Eaton and Palisades Fires. More information here →
Rebuilding FAQs.
No matter where you are in the process, we understand that rebuilding can raise a lot of questions. As your local structural and civil engineering partner, we’re here to offer guidance and provide the answers you need. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out — we’re happy to assist whenever you’re ready.
Do I need structural plans?
Yes, the building department will need structural plans as part of the permitting process.
Do I need civil / grading plans?
It depends. Generally, for a flat lot, the building department will not require a grading plans. However, the building department has stated that they will determine the need upon review of the architectural and structural plans.
Can I keep and reuse my existing foundations?
While it might be possible to reuse existing foundations, we generally find that it is quicker and more cost-effective to remove them and start from scratch. Many of the fire-damaged homes lost are older and do not meet current building codes. Add in the damage from the heat, and the cost to repair and update the foundations would be more expensive than new foundations.
Which jurisdiction am I in?
The Pacific Palisades are a part of the City of Los Angeles. It is under the jurisdiction of the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety and the Los Angeles Building Code (LABC).
Altadena is an unincorporated community in the County of Los Angeles governed by the Los Angeles County Building Code (LACoBC).
Trusted recovery resources.
- Wildfire Debris Removal and Recovery Operation – CalRecycle Home Page
- Eaton Fire – LA County Recovers
- Palisades Fire Damage Maps
- LA County Recovers
- USACE Southern California Wildfire Debris Mission
- Debris Removal Post Wildfires 2025
- Frequently Asked Questions – LA County Recovers
- Altagether
- Fire Rebuild FAQs
- LA Strong: Return & Rebuild
- Rebuilding – LA County Recovers
- What to Expect when Rebuilding
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