Malibu Planning Commission reviews rebuilding regulations for Palisades fire victims

The Planning Commission of Malibu convened on February 20, 2025, to discuss critical amendments related to rebuilding efforts following the recent Palisades fire. The meeting focused on streamlining the rebuilding process while ensuring environmental protections remain intact.

The session began with an acknowledgment of Malibu's commitment to safeguarding its natural resources, emphasizing the importance of the local coastal program (LCP) and municipal code in guiding development. The commission highlighted the anxiety surrounding the planning process, particularly for those affected by the fires.

A significant point of discussion was Governor Gavin Newsom's executive order issued on February 13, which temporarily suspends certain environmental regulations under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for properties impacted by the Palisades fire. This suspension allows for expedited rebuilding, provided that structures remain within 110% of their original footprint and height. The city now has the authority to determine compliance without needing to consult the Coastal Commission, streamlining the process for affected homeowners.

The commission outlined specific amendments to facilitate rebuilding. These include defining the primary development area footprint, which encompasses the area of the original structures, and adjusting regulations for temporary homes. The proposed changes would reduce the maximum size of temporary homes from 1,200 to 1,000 square feet to align with existing accessory dwelling unit (ADU) laws, making it easier for homeowners to transition temporary structures into permanent ones.

Additionally, the commission proposed increasing the removal verification fee to deter misuse of temporary housing permits, ensuring that these homes are occupied only by the property owners or tenants who lived there before the disaster. A limited geotechnical report will be required for temporary homes in geological hazard areas to ensure safety.

The discussion also touched on landscaping requirements aimed at enhancing fire safety. New regulations would prohibit vegetation within five feet of structures and mandate the use of low-growing, drought-resistant plants within a specified distance to mitigate fire risks.

As the meeting concluded, the commission aimed to finalize recommendations for the city council's upcoming meeting on March 4, focusing on these amendments to support the rebuilding efforts while maintaining Malibu's environmental integrity. The proposed changes reflect a balance between facilitating recovery for fire-affected residents and adhering to the city's long-standing commitment to environmental protection.