Wildfires decimated Malibu, wiping out parks, businesses, beaches, and homes. Many have wondered if Malibu should rebuild. City Hall believes they should.
The Vote
The City Council voted on many measures that can help residents rebuild their homes after the devastating Woolsey Fire. Such measures include:
- Hiring contractors to make the planning department more robust
- Loosening some zoning rules, like allowing trailers on properties, while owners are rebuilding
- Allowing replicas of the older home even if they don’t meet modern building codes
The goal is to rebuild these homes as fast as possible.
How New Houses Will Be Built in Malibu
Many residents will choose to rebuild with less wood and more concrete, as well as adding fireproofing. They are also likely to keep landscaping further from their homes.
But before the rebuilding starts, burned properties will have to be cleared. The biggest issue with clearing is hazardous waste, which includes such things as batteries and nail polish. This means that state and federal governmental agencies will inspect the areas and help with hazardous debris removal. This process can take three months or more.
Although it may be slow, Malibu will eventually rise from the ashes. It will just take time and patience.