Los Angeles Fire Disaster Resources
On behalf of the Permit Velocity team, we want to extend our deepest sympathies to all those impacted by the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. We understand the overwhelming challenges that come with such disasters—losing homes, businesses, and the stability of daily life. Our thoughts are with you, your families, and your communities during this difficult time.
Recovering from a wildfire can feel uncertain, especially when navigating Los Angeles building permits, insurance claims, and the reconstruction processes. Please know that you are not alone. Permit Velocity is here to support you in rebuilding as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of essential resources to help you and your loved ones during this crisis. From emergency shelter and financial aid to permitting assistance for rebuilding, these organizations are ready to assist. If you need guidance on expediting your Los Angeles building permits, we are here to help.
Immediate Emergency Relief & Assistance
LA County Recovers: LA County’s consolidated resources page.
https://recovery.lacounty.gov/resources/LA Emergency Management Department: Recovery information and guidelines for returning to your property.
https://emergency.lacity.gov/recoveryRed Cross: Find an open shelter near you as well as other Red Cross resources in LA.
https://www.redcross.org/about-us/our-work/disaster-relief/wildfire-relief/california-wildfires-financial-assistance.htmlCal OES (California Office of Emergency Services): Real-time evacuation orders and emergency updates.
https://www.ca.gov/LAFires/FEMA Assistance: Apply for federal disaster aid.
📞 1-800-621-3362 | www.disasterassistance.govCalifornia HOPE Program: Free crisis counseling.
📞1-833-317-HOPE (4673) | www.calhope.orgFeeding America: Find local food banks.
www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbankASPCA Disaster Response: Animal rescue and shelter services.
www.aspca.org
Insurance Claims & Legal Assistance
California Department of Insurance Wildfire Resource Center: Get assistance with claims, policy reviews, and legal questions.
📞 1-800-927-4357 | www.insurance.ca.govUnited Policyholders: Free legal help with insurance disputes.
www.uphelp.orgConsumer Advocacy for Wildfire Victims: File complaints against insurers delaying claims.
www.insurance.ca.gov/01-consumers/101-help/index.cfm
California Lawyers for the Arts: Free legal aid for wildfire-related business and property issues.
www.calawyersforthearts.orgSCORE Wildfire Recovery Mentorship: Free legal & business recovery mentoring.
https://www.score.org/templates-resources/small-business-resilience-hub
Business & Small Business Assistance
If your business was impacted, there are grants, loans, and legal resources to help you recover.
SBA Disaster Loans: Low-interest loans for businesses and nonprofits.
📞 1-800-659-2955 | https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance/california-wildfiresCalifornia IBank Disaster Relief Loan Guarantee Program:
www.ibank.ca.gov/small-business/disaster-reliefGoogle’s Crisis Response for Small Businesses: Temporary ad credits, tools, and resources.
https://crisisresponse.google/
FEMA Small Business Resources: Grants and recovery strategies.
www.fema.gov/assistance/individual/small-businessCalifornia Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA): Tailored recovery plans.
business.ca.gov
Rebuilding & Permitting Assistance
Steps to Start Rebuilding
Assess Your Property Damage
Get a damage assessment from your insurance adjuster and a structural engineer.
Determine If You Need Demolition Permits
Fire-damaged buildings may require a demolition permit before reconstruction begins.
Los Angeles Department of Building & Safety (LADBS) – Find out if a demolition permit is required.
Plan for a Resilient, Fire-Safe Future
Rebuild using fire-resistant materials, such as Class A roofing, ember-resistant vents, and non-combustible siding.
Maintain defensible space by clearing vegetation and creating a buffer around structures.
Consider upgrading to smart fire detection systems for early warning and protection.
Follow California Wildfire-Resilient Building Codes to ensure long-term safety and compliance.
Obtain Building Permits for Reconstruction
Work with the city’s building department to secure permits for rebuilding.
Secure Financing & Grants for Rebuilding
Utilize insurance funds, FEMA grants, SBA loans, and California rebuilding programs to cover rebuilding costs.
Fast-Tracking Permits with Permit Velocity
Resources
California Building Permits in the Wake of Natural Disasters
Permits for Commercial Tenant Improvements in Los Angeles, California
Permit Velocity works directly with customers to:
Expedite rebuilding permits for commercial and residential properties.
Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
Handle communication with local municipalities to prevent delays.
Coordinate approvals from multiple departments, reducing project timelines.