Residents of Pacific Palisades waited in line for more than two hours on Tuesday to obtain an orange placard required for re-entry into their fire-ravaged neighborhood. The placard system, implemented by local officials, is intended to prevent looting and ensure that only authorized individuals can access the area.
Some residents expressed appreciation for the additional security, while others found the process burdensome. “I think the line, when we first got in it, was maybe a mile and a half long, but it kept moving,” said Chris Torgerson. One resident believed the security measures were necessary, explaining, “I feel it’s worth it because I haven’t been back since the fire in maybe two or three weeks.” However, others questioned the need for the placard. “I’m not sure why this orange pass thing,” said another resident. “All I need to do is show my driver’s license. It has my address on it. It’s a real California ID. That should be enough.”
As residents struggle to gain access to their properties, officials have also introduced a system to begin the debris removal process. Homeowners are required to fill out right-of-entry permit forms, allowing county-sponsored workers to clear debris from private properties. However, the process has been met with frustration.
James Borow, a resident whose home was destroyed in the fire, shared his concerns over the complicated paperwork. “They are reacting, but they have no plan,” he said, criticizing the city for its lack of efficiency. Borow noted that the form was an 18-page PDF requiring a sketch of the home—something nearly impossible for residents whose homes have been reduced to rubble. “There’s language in there that says you may not be able to opt out. No one has any idea what the hell is going on,” he added.
After voicing his frustrations on social media and tagging Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, the city responded by launching a new online system within 24 hours. The updated platform allows residents to complete the necessary forms online in about 15 minutes, according to the city’s website.
Despite the changes, residents remain uncertain about the next steps in the recovery process. “Everyone is sort of paralyzed,” said Borow. “People were basically starting to mobilize, to start and actually fill out this stuff. Now, everyone has paused and said, we need to figure out what’s really going on here.”
As Pacific Palisades residents navigate bureaucratic hurdles, the road to rebuilding remains long and uncertain.
