Spokane Complex Fire Update Newsletter

City of Spokane

Oct. 9, 2026

The City of Spokane wants to ensure that those impacted by the Spokane Complex Fire have the resources and information they need. From housing assistance to household needs grant, resources are available. Continue reading to learn more about programs that are available.

Rebuilding

Join the City of Spokane, Community Partners at Upcoming Community Resource Events

Residents impacted by the Old Trails Fire are invited to attend two upcoming resource events.

City of Spokane staff, alongside community partners, will be available to answer questions and guide residents on:

Wildfire housing assistance
Asbestos surveying
Regulatory flexibility for residential rebuilding
Temporary housing on fire-affected properties
Free second opinions on contracting and other development quotes

Event details:

Tuesday, October 13 at 6 p.m. at Flett Middle School (5020 W Wellesley Ave).
Wednesday, October 28 at 6 p.m. at Salk Middle School (6411 N Alberta).

Asbestos Survey Costs

The City of Spokane will provide asbestos surveying at no cost to fire-affected residents where asbestos survey services are not provided through their home insurance, upon approval of a resolution by City Council on Wednesday, October 14. The City secured authorization from the Washington State Department of Commerce to support residents with obtaining and paying for asbestos testing using Wildfire Housing Assistance Funds.

Property owners of fire-affected properties from the Old Trails Fire can fill out this form to request asbestos surveying at no cost. Residents who have already conducted an asbestos test not covered by insurance are also asked to fill out the form for retroactive payment.

Free Permit Pre-Screening Available for Residential Applicants

The City of Spokane is working with Permittable to provide residential permit applicants with free access to its Intake Completeness service for one year.

The voluntary service allows applicants to review their permit materials for missing documents and other completeness issues before submitting an application to the City.

Use of Permittable does not replace the City’s permitting process. Applicants will continue to submit directly to the City, which retains responsibility for official permit review and approval.

Learn more here.

City Extends Remote DSC Office at Shadle Park Library

The remote Development Service Center (DSC) office at Shadle Park Library to help fire-impacted residents has been extended. Upcoming hours:

Monday, Oct. 5 through Friday, Oct. 9, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tuesday, Oct. 13 through Thursday, Oct. 15, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 24, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

A City Planner and Plan Reviewer are on-site to meet with fire-impacted residents. These staff members are available to evaluate needs and help residents navigate permitting services. Click here for more information.

Spokane Complex Fire Home Rebuilding Forum

The Spokane Home Builders Association (SHBA), Spokane County, and the City of Spokane hosted a Spokane Complex Fire Home Rebuilding Forum. SHBA contractors had the chance to talk with local building and planning officials about code adjustments, waivers, timelines, and more. Watch the recording.

When rebuilding from fire damage, use L&I resources to protect against scams

Homeowners rebuilding after this season’s fire damage should make sure to check out their contractor before making a decision or paying any money. The best way to avoid contractor scams is by using the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) tools and guidance at ProtectMyHome.net.

The Road to Rebuilding

With the completion of the EPA's Household Hazardous Material removal, the City of Spokane has updated the rebuilding information on the Wildfire Information website.

Step 1: Debris Removal

The first step in the road to rebuilding is debris removal. As of September 15, 2026, the EPA has completed the Hazardous Material Removal. A separate demolition/cleanup permit is required to clean up the remainder of the site of all remaining debris, building materials, chimneys, foundations, etc. Property owners are welcome and encouraged to submit for their demo/cleanup permits at any time.

Step 2: Prepare Rebuild Plans

Once your property has been cleared and cleanup is complete, the next step is to start planning your rebuild. You do not have to figure it all out at once. There are people and resources available to help you through the process.

Step 3: Apply for Permits

Once you have a plan for your project, you can start your permit application. This is where the City's Development Services Center can help. A building permit is required before construction begins. Depending on your project, additional permits may be needed for electrical, plumbing, mechanical and utility work.

Step 4: Permit Process

Once your plans are submitted, City staff will review them. Currently the City is reviewing single family homes for fire rebuilds in 5 business days for the first review. If revisions are identified, subsequent reviews will be completed within 3 business days.

Step 5: Construct and Inspect

Once your permits are approved, fees are paid, and your permit has been issued, construction can begin. Your builder will coordinate construction, inspections, and subcontractors throughout the project.

Step 6: Move In

After all work is approved, the City will issue a “Certificate of Occupancy” to verify that your house is complete and has passed all safety inspections, after which you can officially move into your new home!

For the detailed step-by-step road to rebuilding, visit my.spokanecity.org/wildfireinfo/rebuilding.

Resources

Twilight Bedding

As Spokane recovers from the recent wildfires, locally made Twilight Bedding is helping affected households restore a safe, comfortable place to rest. Twilight Bedding is offering up to a 20% discount on mattresses, bed frames, and pillows for affected households and first responders. Mention the Spokane Community Recovery Offer when calling or visiting. Click here for more information.

Disaster Recovery Counseling

Money Management International (MMI) is offering post-disaster financial recovery counseling and personalized assistance for disaster survivors through Project Porchlight. Project Porchlight has four main components: developing your recovery plan, applying for FEMA aid and insurance payments, monthly support from your recovery specialist, and continuing education and encouragement. Visit the MMI website for more information.

Community Resource Website

We ask that everyone in our community visit SpokaneCommunityResources.org to connect with any of the following:

Impacted families seeking resources
Organizations providing support or seeking volunteers
Community members interested in volunteering or donating
Business leaders seeking resources

Spokane Tenant Disaster Relief Hotline

KCBA Housing Justice Project has opened a Spokane Tenant Disaster Relief Hotline at 509-214-6226. They are providing legal services, referrals to community resources, and more. Click here to fill out an online intake form.

Disaster Cash Assistance Programs

Individuals whose homes were significantly damaged or destroyed by recent wildfires can now apply for state assistance to help with immediate needs such as temporary housing, food, and minor repairs.

Individual Assistance through Washington Emergency Management Division

City of Spokane Wildfire Information Page

The City of Spokane has a wildfire information page to help our community navigate this difficult time. Here you will find resources for evacuees, tips for returning home, frequently asked questions about city services, ways to help, cleanup efforts, and information on rebuilding as it becomes available.

Alert Spokane

Register for ALERT Spokane to receive emergency alerts. You can sign up to receive alerts at multiple phone numbers and get a call or text, or you can get a notification via email. To register, visit SCEM.org, and the form is on the page. If you prefer to hear the message in your native language, there are many language options to choose from.

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We are here to help! Simply dial 311 or if outside City limits: 509-755-CITY(2489).