The debris that remains from a structure that was destroyed in the Thomas fire may contain hazardous waste and materials that can threaten public health. It is therefore very important that this debris be properly inspected and disposed. To expedite recovery activities and ensure the safe removal of hazardous waste and fire debris, the county is coordinating with state to remove hazardous waste and fire debris from structures and properties damaged by the wildfire using the state Fire Debris Removal Program. There are two phases to this State program:
Phase One: Household Hazardous Waste Removal
During Phase One, teams from the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) along with Environmental Health Division will inspect your property and remove any household hazardous waste that may pose a threat to human health and the environment such as batteries, identifiable asbestos, pesticides, cleaning products and paints. There is no cost to the property owner for this work and you do not need to file a request to participate. Once your property is cleared, a yellow clearance notice will be posted on the property. This phase of the work began on Monday, December 18th.
To view the status of your property in the Phase One Debris Removal process, see DTSC map: http://dtsc.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=c9ed8c665cba44059a39c3f0557bf05d
Phase Two: Debris Removal and Property Clean-up
Option 1: CalOES Fire Damage Debris Clearance Program (State Program)
During Phase Two, teams from the State (CalRecycle) will remove the remaining debris (including building foundations) from properties with destroyed structures. You will need to provide Right-of-Entry (ROE) Permit and insurance information before the work can be done. This work will include removal of all burnt debris, foundations, hazardous trees, and some soil to ensure the site is clean and safe for building. A summary of type of debris eligible for removal under the State Program can be found here. All of the work is undertaken by CalRecycle contractors and there is no cost to the property owner; however, any insurance proceeds for debris removal shall be dedicated to off-set costs.
Click the image below to view the CalRecycle Debris Informational Meeting held in Ventura
Ventura County Environmental Health must receive this ROE Permit on or before January 22, 2018.
For more information on the CalOES Fire Damage Debris Clearance Program, including answers to questions regarding insurance coverage, click here: FAQ English | FAQ Español
Please submit a completed Right-of-Entry Permit to the Ventura County Environmental Health Division public counter at:
It is recommended that forms be submitted in person.
For more information on debris removal choices, click below:
Additional Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Exemption from Local Program Requirements Fire Debris Removal
Ventura County Emergency Ordinance for Abatement of Hazardous Material and Debris
Additional Information and Resources
Click Here for Upcoming Community Meeting Information
Additional information regarding fire debris removal is provided below.
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