Newsom Signs Order to Speed LA Rebuilding

Governor Gavin Newsom has signed an executive order aimed at expediting the rebuilding process in Los Angeles following recent wildfires by waiving certain permitting and review requirements under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the California Coastal Act.

“When the fires are extinguished, victims who have lost their homes and businesses must be able to rebuild quickly and without roadblocks. The executive order I signed today will help cut permitting delays, an important first step in allowing our communities to recover faster and stronger. I’ve also ordered our state agencies to identify additional ways to streamline the rebuilding and recovery process,” said Governor Gavin Newsom.

The executive order will:

• Suspend CEQA review and California Coastal Act permitting for properties severely damaged or destroyed in the recent wildfires in Southern California.
• Direct state agencies to identify additional permitting requirements, including elements of the Building Code, that can be safely waived or expedited to facilitate quicker and more affordable rebuilding.
• Extend price gouging protections on building materials, construction services, storage, and other essential goods and services in Los Angeles County through January 7, 2026.
• Commit to collaborating with the Legislature to explore statutory changes that would further expedite rebuilding efforts while enhancing wildfire resilience and safety.

Governor Newsom’s office continues to work with state agencies and the Legislature to support rebuilding efforts and help those impacted by the fires restore what has been lost.