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City of Malibu Reaches Major Milestones in Palisades Fire Rebuilding Efforts
Just seven months after the Palisades Fire, Malibu has reached its 100th planning rebuild submittal — a month ahead of the pace set after the Woolsey Fire. The Planning Rebuild Submittal is the first step in answering “where and what can I build,” reviewing building pads, height, setbacks, bulk, and square footage.
The first building permit has been issued for a beachfront home on PCH, with construction already underway — a major milestone in recovery. Despite challenges like complex coastal geology, narrow roads, utility access, and strict coastal regulations, the City is processing permits efficiently while prioritizing safety, sustainability, and compliance.
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Malibu Launches Fire Rebuild Fee Waiver Program
The City of Malibu has launched the Broad, Franklin, and Palisades Fire Fee Waiver Program to support property owners rebuilding after the fires. The program eliminates City planning and building permit fees for like-for-like, owner-occupied homes.
To make the process easier, City staff will prepare the required affidavit for each eligible property owner. Once notarized, the affidavit will be recorded through the City Clerk’s Office, saving residents time and streamlining the overall process.
For questions or to begin the pre-qualification process, email MalibuRecovers@malibucity.org or call (310) 456-2489, ext. 400. Community Development staff will also be available to answer questions at the City’s Safety and Preparedness Fair on September 6, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM at City Hall.
| | City Council Approves Event Permit and Sign Permit Amendments | | |
At the July 14 meeting, City Council approved amendments to the Malibu Municipal Code regarding Temporary Use Permits (TUP) and Sign Permits. Under the new rules, small events with fewer than 99 attendees require only a simple planning clearance — with no public notice or appeal period. Applications must be submitted at least two days in advance, and there is no limit on the number of events that can be held.
For larger events of up to 250 attendees, the ordinance also streamlines the application process by reducing requirements. These updates are designed to support businesses and nonprofits in their economic recovery following the recent fires.
The ordinance will remain in effect through May 31, 2026.
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Malibu is not included in the current Red Flag Warning for hazardous fire conditions in effect across the region from August 20–23.
This is an important reminder to review and update your Red Flag Plan so you’re ready when wildfire conditions arise.
While Malibu and the Santa Monica Mountains are outside this week’s Red Flag Warning area — which covers parts of Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo Counties — fire season is quickly approaching. On average, Malibu experiences about eight Red Flag Days per season. Now is the time to prepare, stay alert, and take proactive steps to protect your home and family.
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DEADLINE: Malibu-Topanga Business Interruption Fund
Submit by Friday, August 22
The Malibu-Topanga Business Interruption Fund is a grant program providing $10,000 – $20,000 in relief to small businesses suffering financial losses as a direct result of the loss of customers due to the closures of Pacific Coast Highway and Topanga Canyon Blvd. following the January 2025 windstorms and wildfires. Learn more and apply.
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Special City Council Meeting
6:30 PM at Malibu City Hall
The City Council will hold a special meeting on August 27 to discuss rebuild policy documents related to the community’s recovery efforts. Residents are encouraged to attend and stay informed on the rebuilding process.
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City of Malibu Safety & Preparedness Fair
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM at Malibu City Hall
Wildfire season is coming fast, so now is the time to take action to get your family, home and neighborhood prepared! Learn how to prepare for wildfires, earthquakes, floods, and other disasters. Learn more.
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Small Business Administration (SBA) Workshop
12:00 PM - 4:00 PM at Malibu City Hall
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will hold an informational workshop at City Hall (Council Chambers). SBA will assist fire-affected businesses, homeowners and renters with financial guidance and recovery support.
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Small Business Administration (SBA) Workshop
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM at Malibu City Hall
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will hold an informational workshop at City Hall (Council Chambers). SBA will assist fire-affected businesses, homeowners and renters with financial guidance and recovery support.
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Small Business Administration (SBA) Workshop
9:00 AM - 1:00 PM at Malibu City Hall
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will hold an informational workshop at City Hall (Council Chambers). SBA will assist fire-affected businesses, homeowners and renters with financial guidance and recovery support.
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Business-to-Business Space Share Program
The LA County Department of Economic Opportunity and Internal Services Department launched a free virtual exchange that connects organizations and individuals offering available workspaces with businesses and nonprofits displaced by the recent windstorm and wildfires.
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Join DEO’s Economic Mobility Initiative
The LA County Department of Economic Opportunity’s Economic Mobility Initiative helps business owners, entrepreneurs, and social enterprises thrive by providing access to academies, specialized training and support, capital resources, commercial spaces, and one-on-one technical assistance through a network of more than 15 partners.
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Malibu Rebuild Updated Statistics
City staff remain committed to supporting homeowners throughout the recovery process. The Rebuild Center is open Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, providing direct assistance with rebuilding applications, permits, and questions related to the recovery process.
Current Rebuild Statistics for Single-Family Residences:
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Rebuild applications submitted: 104
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Planning approvals issued: 44
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Like-for-like +10% rebuilds: 44
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Coastal Development Permit rebuilds: 0
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Average processing time for Planning’s first response: 11 days
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Applications currently under Planning review: 62
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Building plan checks submitted: 7
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Building plan checks approved: 1
| | | Palisades Fire Rebuild Dashboard | | MORE INFORMATION & RESOURCES | | | | |
