31 Jan Rebuilding Post Fire: From Experience

Rebuilding after a fire can be an incredibly tough journey—physically, emotionally, and financially. The next steps may feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. We hope this post helps bring some clarity and light to the process, offering guidance and support as you move forward.

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Rebuilding After the Woolsey Fire: A Timeline of Reconstruction

The Woolsey Fire, which ignited on November 8, 2018, and was fully contained by November 21, 2018, left a path of devastation in its wake. Burning nearly 97,000 acres and destroying over 1,600 structures, the fire forced hundreds of thousands of people to evacuate. For homeowners who lost everything, the journey to rebuilding was daunting. Below is a timeline of the reconstruction process for a home on Foose Road, illustrating the key phases and milestones that define the lengthy but ultimately rewarding path to recovery.

Phase 1: Initial Steps (1 Month)

Before rebuilding could begin, insurance claims and site surveys were the first hurdles. In this case, the site survey was completed on December 27, 2018, about a month after the fire containment. This step is critical for understanding property boundaries and confirming a baseline for reconstruction.

Phase 2: Schematic Design & Planning Approvals (3 Months)

A well-structured plan is essential to moving forward efficiently. The schematic design phase, which began in early 2019, took about a month. On February 1, 2019, the homeowner contracted Hayne Architects to spearhead the design. By March 11, 2019, planning documents were officially submitted. One month later, on April 3, 2019, the project received an exemption letter from the planning department, a crucial milestone that allowed the process to proceed.

Phase 3: Building Permits & Approvals (4 Months)

Navigating the permitting process in Los Angeles County can be time-consuming, but efforts to expedite Coastal Development Permits helped streamline the timeline. The first permit submission to Building and Safety occurred on July 12, 2019. By September 5, 2019, the plans were approved—a relatively swift turnaround. During this period, the fire department also reviewed fuel modification plans and a well application, which began on May 15, 2019.

Phase 4: Construction (Approx. 2 Years)

The construction phase is where the vision finally starts to take shape. After a one-month bidding process, work officially began on October 22, 2019, once the permit was pulled. As expected for a ground-up rebuild, construction was a lengthy endeavor, spanning nearly two years. The final certificate of occupancy (CofO) was issued on April 26, 2021, marking the official completion of the home.

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Key Takeaways: The Importance of the Right Team

Rebuilding after a disaster like the Woolsey Fire is a complex, multi-year process requiring expertise, patience, and persistence. Having the right team—architects, contractors, and permitting specialists—can make a significant difference in keeping the project on track and navigating the inevitable challenges.

For a more detailed look at the rebuild journey, check out Foose2.0 on Instagram, which documents the progress from destruction to a brand-new home.

If you’re embarking on a similar journey, take these lessons to heart: plan meticulously, stay proactive with approvals, and surround yourself with experienced professionals who can guide you through the complexities of rebuilding.