Altadena & Pasadena Fire Debris Removal - Frequently Asked Questions
Fast Track Permitting FAQ
Is the allowed 10% increase in square footage permitted under Fast Track?
Yes. The intent of allowing a 10% increase is primarily to account for discrepancies in how buildings are measured, such as differences between assessor records and actual building size or variations in drawings.
Can the 10% increase in square footage be used for a new bathroom?
Yes. The interior layout and design of the home can be completely reconfigured. The only requirement is that the total floor area of the new building does not exceed a 10% increase over the original footprint.
Can I expand my garage from two spaces to three within the 10% increase, or does this apply only to living space since garage space is not technically considered "floor area"? What if I want to add a basement?
This is not entirely clear and would likely require discretionary approval from city plan check staff. Expanding a garage or adding a basement may necessitate a standard plan check rather than the expedited Fast Track process.
Can I sell my home after submitting plans? Will the new owner have to start over?
No, the new owner will not have to start over. The process remains unchanged, though some additional paperwork will be required to update ownership information.
If we maintain the same square footage or add up to 10%, can we increase ceiling height?
Yes, as long as the overall building height does not exceed the maximum allowable building envelope.
What does "Fast Track" really mean?
Fast Track is an expedited plan check process in which first-round corrections are issued within 30 days or less. Additionally, Fast Track permits benefit from significantly reduced fees—typically 1/5th of the cost of a regular plan check.
If I sell my lot, will the new owner retain the existing square footage, even if it exceeds today's limits? What about Fast Track eligibility?
Yes. The allowable square footage is tied to the lot, not the owner. Fast Track eligibility also remains unchanged after the sale.
My side yards are narrower than what is allowed under current regulations. Will those need to be changed in the new building?
Generally, non-conforming setbacks can be preserved in a rebuild. In extreme cases, the city may require changes, but typically, existing non-conforming setbacks are allowed to remain.
My house was built a long time ago. Will my new house need to meet today's building codes?
Yes. Rebuilds must comply with current building codes, including fire safety, Title 24 (energy code), structural, electrical, and other applicable regulations.
My old house had an enclosed porch that was built without a permit. Can I include that space in the total square footage of the new house?
No. Only legally permitted square footage that appears in official building records will be considered when calculating the allowable size of the new home.
Do I have to hire the Army Corps of Engineers to clear my lot?
No, once your lot is cleared by the EPA in Phase 1, you can hire any licensed credentialed contractor to clear your lot.
Should I remove the foundation when clearing the lot?
You certainly can. But it can be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Will the Army Corps of Engineers test the soil for contamination after they complete the demo?
No. They are removing up to 6 inches of topsoil and moving on. If the soil is tested after they leave and found to be contaminated, you will need to deal with that privately.
Do you perform soil tests when clearing the lots?
Yes, we can take soil samples as we go to ensure we don’t leave anything dangerous behind.
Homeowner-Specific FAQs
Do I have to clear my foundation?
This depends on the extent of the fire damage. Some foundations may be structurally sound and reusable, while others may need to be removed. A structural engineer can determine whether your foundation can be salvaged.
How long will the process take?
Timelines vary based on whether you opt into the government program or handle cleanup privately. Government cleanup can take weeks to months, depending on prioritization. Private contractors may offer a faster turnaround.
Can you handle my plans and engineering?
Yes, we can coordinate architectural planning and structural engineering services if needed. We work with licensed professionals to ensure compliance with building codes.
Can you help me with the design and finding my finishes?
Yes! We offer design consultation services to help you select finishes, materials, and layouts that fit your budget and vision.
Do you deal with the city to get my permit?
Yes, we can handle the permitting process, ensuring all documentation is submitted and approved by local agencies.
How much will all this cost?
The cost varies based on the scope of work, permit requirements, and material selections. We provide transparent pricing and estimates after assessing your project needs.
If you take my project, do you have to handle all aspects, or can I hire you for only certain tasks?
We offer flexible services—you can hire us for full project management or specific tasks such as debris removal, permitting, or design.
I already have plans; can you provide me with a bid?
Yes! If you have completed architectural plans, we can provide a detailed bid based on the specifications and requirements outlined in your plans.
What is the Fire Debris Removal Program for Altadena, Pasadena & Palisades?
Los Angeles County is dedicated to restoring our communities swiftly and safely after the recent wildfires. The debris removal process is divided into two main phases, each managed by different agencies. Residents have the option to participate in the government-run program or manage the cleanup independently by opting out.
Altadena, Pasadena, and Palisades adhere to the same structured debris removal protocol. The Right of Entry (ROE) requirements for private property debris removal in these areas are governed by Los Angeles County Public Works, utilizing the same standardized forms and guidelines.
What is the difference between opting in and opting out?
Opting In: The government manages the cleanup process at no upfront cost, but property owners must follow specific guidelines and may face restrictions on rebuilding timelines and site control.
Opting Out: The property owner hires a private contractor to complete the cleanup, following county and state regulations. This option provides more control over the timeline and work but is not reimbursed by disaster relief funds.
