Governor Newsom Signs Executive Order to Help Los Angeles Rebuild

Governor Newsom Signs Executive Order to Help Los Angeles Rebuild

Governor’s Executive Order Waives CEQA and Coastal Act requirements for Reconstruction and Also Extends Law Against Price Gouging Until 2026

Governor Gavin Newsom signed an executive order to suspend permitting and review requirements under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the California Coastal Act to allow victims of the recent fires to restore their homes and businesses faster.

The executive order entails: 

(i) Suspension of CEQA review and California Coastal Act permitting for reconstruction of properties substantially damaged or destroyed in recent Southern California wildfires;

(ii) Direct state agencies to identify additional permitting requirements, including provisions of the Building Code, that can safely be suspended or streamlined to accelerate rebuilding and make it more affordable;

(iii) Extends the protections against price gouging on building materials, storage services, construction, and other essential goods and services to January 7, 2026, in Los Angeles County, and

(iv) Commits to working with the Legislature to identify statutory changes that can help expedite rebuilding while enhancing wildfire resilience and safety.