Board extends Eaton Fire recovery ordinance, directing continuity for rebuild permits

The Board of Supervisors voted July 28 to extend the Eaton Fire disaster interim ordinance that has provided Altadena residents expanded flexibility to design, permit and rebuild homes destroyed by last year’s fire.

Regional Planning director Amy Bodek and staff described how the interim rules relax setbacks, footprint and parking standards to speed repair and rebuilding. Supervisor Barger told the board the ordinance was intended to remove regulatory barriers and facilitate recovery while the department develops a permanent ordinance. "As of yesterday, we've received more than 3,500 rebuild applications in Altadena," she said, noting roughly 2,700 parcels had building permits and about 1,900 were under construction.

Board members discussed adding gentle‑density options such as bungalow courts to help meet longer‑term housing needs, while recognizing potential complications with state subdivision law and Title 21. Regional Planning said it will explore ways to allow small‑scale bungalow court conversions and work with commercial property owners on mixed‑use opportunities. The board approved the extension by roll call following public comment.

Public commenters — including nonprofit leaders and Altadena residents — supported measured rebuilding that protects seniors and renters and urged continued county support for infrastructure and clearance of hazardous vegetation. The board asked departments to coordinate on siting infrastructure elements (for example, lumber yards or concrete batch plants) and to preserve recovery tools while planning a permanent ordinance.