Essential steps to assess, clean up, and protect your outdoor spaces from the lingering effects of wildfire damage.

Burned Tree
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In the aftermath of the recent wildfires that devastated parts of Los Angeles, the path to recovery can feel overwhelming. For those returning to their properties, the sight of ash-covered landscapes, charred trees, and barren slopes can evoke a profound sense of loss and uncertainty, as each person’s experience with the fires has been felt in unique and deeply personal ways. These fires have left an indelible mark, and our hearts are with everyone affected by this tragedy—from families who have lost homes to communities navigating the long road to rebuilding.

If you’re among those now able to return to your property, this guide is here to support you. We’ll walk you through the critical first steps to safely assess your landscape, begin clean-up, and plan for restoration. Whether you’re dealing with piles of ash, damaged trees, or soil contamination, we aim to make this process a little less daunting. With expert insights from FormLA Landscaping, specialists in sustainable landscape restoration, and guidance from Los Angeles County’s recovery resources, we’ll help you rebuild with care and purpose. As you navigate the recovery process, we hope this guides you through the first steps, offering support as you restore and care for your landscape.

Safety First: Protecting Yourself and Your Property

Before setting foot on your property, safety must be your top priority. Post-fire landscapes can harbor a number of hidden dangers, from unstable trees and slopes to toxic ash and debris. “It’s critical to wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, masks, goggles, and sturdy boots, when assessing and cleaning your property,” advises the FormLA Landscaping team. Avoid using blowers or any tools that may stir up ash and potentially release airborne pollutants like lead, arsenic, and asbestos.

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In heavily damaged areas, The Los Angeles County Fire Department also emphasizes the importance of waiting for an official inspection before attempting any debris removal. Their debris assessment and hazardous waste removal services are provided free of charge and are essential to ensuring your property is safe for entry. For questions or updates, visit recovery.lacounty.gov.

Produce Inspection

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Cleaning Ash and Debris Safely

Cleaning up ash and debris requires both caution and care. Begin by gently washing down foliage to settle ash and prevent it from becoming airborne. “Rake and shovel ash into garden beds rather than using blowers, and add a layer of mulch outside of Zone 0 (the area extending 0-5 feet from your home, focusing on intense fuel reduction to protect against ember attacks) to help speed decomposition and reduce exposure risks,” recommends FormLA. Be mindful not to place ash near storm drains or waterways to avoid contamination.

For hazardous debris, such as remnants of household products or firefighting chemicals, residents should not attempt removal themselves. According to the Los Angeles County Fire Department, these materials can contain harmful toxins like mercury and heavy metals. Instead, contact their Fire Debris Removal team at (888) CLEANLA for professional assistance.

Assessing Landscape Damage

Evaluating the health of your landscape post-fire is a vital step toward recovery. “Trees can sustain hidden damage that isn’t immediately visible,” notes FormLA. They recommend consulting a certified arborist to assess the structural integrity of trees in burn areas. Native plants, surprisingly resilient to fire, may recover even if they appear completely burned—look for stump sprouts or new growth after watering.

For slopes, be especially cautious of barren areas or signs of erosion. The Los Angeles County Public Works Geotechnical & Materials Engineering team can provide guidance on stabilizing slopes and mitigating potential landslides. Deep-rooted native plants, even if burned, may still offer some protection against soil slippage.

Soil Test

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Testing and Restoring Soil

Soil contamination is a significant concern after wildfires. Conduct a soil test to determine the presence of toxins, such as heavy metals or chemicals, especially in areas used for planting. “For non-edible plants, native species can naturally remediate the soil over time without the need for chemical amendments,” says FormLA. They recommend using organic mulch to improve soil health while maintaining conditions that native plants thrive in.

For edible gardens, more extensive remediation may be necessary. Options like cover cropping or soil replacement can help restore safe growing conditions. For further testing or remediation guidance, contact the Los Angeles County Public Works Geotechnical team at (626) 458-4925.

Checking Water Safety

Firefighting efforts can leave water sources, such as rain barrels, wells, and irrigation systems, contaminated with ash or chemicals. Empty and flush rain barrels, and test well water before using it for plants, drinking, or livestock areas. “Irrigation systems should be thoroughly flushed to ensure no residual contaminants remain,” advises FormLA.

When working with any water system post-fire, wearing PPE is essential to prevent exposure to harmful residues. For concerns about water quality, reach out to Los Angeles County Environmental Health at (626) 430-5380.

Planning for Fire-Safe Landscapes

Moving forward, consider creating defensible spaces to protect your home from future fires. Start by clearing combustible materials from the first five feet around your home and under decks. “This includes removing leaf litter, firewood, outdoor fabrics, and petroleum-based items,” emphasizes FormLA. Planting native, fire-resistant species is an easy way to keep your home safer. For more guidance, consult the Los Angeles County Fire Prevention team at (323) 890-4132 or visit fire.lacounty.gov.