The deadlines to opt-in to the State fire debris removal program, and to opt-out and sign up for the local debris removal program have been extended to February 15. The deadline to complete fire debris removal is March 15. If debris removal has not been completed by March 15, the State will remove the fire debris from the property at the owner’s expense (up to $100,000). There are two options: the state-sponsored program or the local program. Whether a property owner opts in to the state sponsored fire debris removal program or chooses to pay for debris removal on their own with the local program, they must apply for one or the other by February 15.
OPTION 1 - STATE-sponsored FIRE DEBRIS REMOVAL PROGRAM
Calrecycle will remove fire debris from homes that are damaged or destroyed under stringent environmental and public safety guidelines, at no out-of-pocket cost to the property owner. If the costs of debris removal exceeds the amount of debris removal insurance, the property owner will not be charged additionally. If the property owner does not have debris removal insurance, the debris removal will be at no cost. Property owners are encouraged to contact their homeowners insurance providers, as any insurance proceeds for debris removal will be dedicated to off-set costs.
Option 2 - Local Fire Debris Removal Program