As a Los Angeles resident and the COO of Liebo Builders, I’ve spent the past several days speaking with dozens of homeowners devastated by the recent wildfires. Everyone shares the same concerns: How do we rebuild as quickly as possible, And what can we build?

The recent executive orders issued by Governor Newsom and Mayor Bass promise to cut through red tape and expedite the rebuilding process. While these orders are a step in the right direction, they beg the question: why were so many of these bureaucratic barriers in place to begin with?

But we can leave that question for another day. For now, what does the rebuilding process look like?

Key Measures in the Executive Orders

1. Debris Removal

A critical first step, debris removal is necessary for safety and environmental reasons. No construction will happen on any lot until this is completed.

The orders call for a coordinated effort to clean up hazardous materials, especially given the area’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean. If handled well, this process could be swift, but history shows California often moves slowly.

Still I am optimistic. There will be a lot of political pressure, especially from the incoming administration to move fast. I estimate a 6 month timeline for debris clearance, though I hope to be proven wrong.

In the meantime, homeowners should use this period to find architects and begin the design process. Los Angeles will have a shortage of architects very soon if they do not already. We are working with some out-of-state firms presently and linking them with in-state firms to absorb bandwidth.

2. Expedited Permitting for “Like-for-Like” Homes

The most pressing question from homeowners is: Can I rebuild exactly what I had, or can I make changes? The short answer is that you are allowed to rebuild up to 110% of your previous structure’s size without facing significant delays.

However, it’s unclear how the city will handle more substantial changes, such as doubling your home’s size. We are committed to exploring all options for our clients, including ceiling height increases, improved layouts, wider openings and doors, and other interior changes that will likely be approved under the expedited process. In addition we will look at ADU options, phasing construction to accommodate additions.

The short answer is we will be creative alongside our clients in the effort to create the best possible outcome.

3. Disaster Recovery Permitting Center

The city will establish a special permitting center for the burn area, bringing together multiple departments, including Building and Safety, City Planning, Public Works, and the Department of Water and Power. They claim permit reviews will be completed within 30 days, inspections within 2 days, and clearances within 5 days. These timelines, if met, would be extraordinary.

The second most common question is how exactly will they do that. And here is one possible solution:

4. "Self-Certification"

One promising aspect of the executive orders is the potential for self-certification. This means licensed architects, engineers, and general contractors may be allowed to certify compliance themselves, speeding up the process. Self-certification is common in other parts of the country and could be a game changer if implemented here.

5. Temporary Housing on Lots

Homeowners will be allowed to park RVs, tiny homes, or mobile homes on their lots while rebuilding. This is a practical and compassionate solution that provides immediate relief to those who wish to remain on-site during construction.

Though, keep in mind Palisades and Malibu are going to be one giant construction zone for at least a few years. And I'm not sure this will be the most comfortable RV living environment.

What the Orders Don’t Address

While the executive orders cover a lot, there are gaps. No mention is made of soil reports, hillside-specific engineering, mudslide areas, or infrasturcture like gas lines and electrical lines. All of which will be necessary for many rebuilds.

Our Commitment

At Liebo Builders, we are committed to helping our community rebuild stronger, faster, and smarter. We are here to guide you through every step of this process, from finding a licensed architect or acting as an owner’s representative to starting the design of your “like-for-like” rebuild. We are offering our owner's representative and advisory services free of charge to our existing clients and their friends affected by the fires.

You don’t have to go through this alone—we will be by your side, ensuring that you get the best possible outcome.

Next Steps for Homeowners

1. Find a Licensed Architect

Begin designing your home today. Even if you want to make changes later, starting the process now will ensure you are ready once permits are available.

2. Think About What You Want

Consider improvements you’d like to make, such as raising ceilings or reconfiguring interior spaces. While significant expansions may face hurdles, incremental changes may be approved without issue. Again, we will bring you updates to this in real time as we begin this process.

3. Be Prepared for Additional Requirements

While the orders simplify some aspects, other elements like soils reports and hillside engineering will still be required. Start gathering information early to avoid delays. If you have old surveys and reports reach out to the engineer for copies of them.

4. Stay Updated

We are monitoring the situation closely and will provide real-time updates as new information becomes available. Our goal is to help you rebuild faster and better while ensuring compliance with all codes.

We didn’t ask for this tragedy, but together we can turn it into an opportunity to rebuild something stronger. If you’re ready to take the first step or have more questions, contact us today.

(References: Governor Newsom’s Executive Order:

https://www.gov.ca.gov/2025/01/12/governor-newsom-signs-executive-order-to-help-los-angeles-rebuild-faster-and-stronger/

, Mayor Bass’s Executive Order:

https://mayor.lacity.gov/news/mayor-bass-issues-sweeping-executive-order-clear-way-angelenos-rebuild-their-homes-fast