Broad Coalition Advocates for Stronger Building Codes in Los Angeles Post-Wildfires

Building a Safer Los Angeles

In response to the catastrophic wildfires that unfolded in January 2025, a diverse coalition is calling on California Governor Gavin Newsom, legislative leaders, and local officials to prioritize the reconstruction of Los Angeles following the most stringent building codes in the country. This coalition, which comprises housing, fire science, insurance, and policy experts, believes that implementing Chapter 7A building codes is essential for reducing wildfire risks in the area.

As residents of the Pacific Palisades, Altadena, and surrounding communities grapple with the aftermath of the wildfires, the coalition has put forth a formal letter urging immediate action from key decision-makers. This letter emphasizes the need for incorporating clear and actionable requirements in construction and landscaping that aim to mitigate the risk of future wildfires.

Roy Wright, President and CEO of the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS), expressed the urgency of this matter. He stated, "Ensuring the next generation of homes in the Pacific Palisades and Altadena are survivable and insurable is not a barrier to rebuilding—it is a necessity." Wright highlighted that a viable and affordable solution exists to foster a safer future for Los Angeles residents.

The coalition confronts two pressing challenges: first, the devastation in the affected communities has not reduced the broader wildfire risk; second, the insurance market in California remains under significant strain. Wright emphasized the importance of rebuilding homes and communities that can withstand wildfires, affirming the need for homeowners to have a safe place to return.

The Chapter 7A code, essential for building design in the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI), includes a variety of mitigation measures aimed at lowering the risk of home ignitions due to embers, flames, and radiant heat. This code is not only pivotal for new constructions but also represents a proactive approach to home safety.

Dan Dunmoyer, President and CEO of the California Building Industry Association, pointed out that although the Pacific Palisades is already required to adhere to Chapter 7A, it is imperative to extend these standards to Altadena. He remarked that the status quo simply isn’t sufficient and that the Altadena community deserves to be rebuilt with these resilient codes in mind.

To further bolster the rebuilding efforts, the coalition has also urged policymakers to expedite the enforcement of newly introduced Zone 0 Defensible Space regulations. These regulations emphasize the critical importance of removing combustible materials within five feet of a home, which can significantly reduce the chances of wildfire ignitions fed by wind-driven embers.

Dr. Michael Gollner, the director of the Berkeley Fire Research Lab, emphasized that clear scientific evidence pinpoints this task as one of the most vital mitigation strategies available to homeowners. Removing flammable materials not only helps protect individual properties but also contributes to a broader defense strategy against the spread of wildfires into urban spaces.

Despite the positive steps forward with the Zone 0 regulations now being rolled out, Dr. Gollner argues that existing homeowners should not be left waiting for extended compliance deadlines. Instead, he believes local officials should take immediate action to adopt and enforce local Zone 0 mandates throughout the rebuilding phase.

The coalition behind this initiative is extensive and incorporates numerous organizations and individuals from various sectors, reflecting a strong commitment to fire safety and community resilience. Among the supporters are agencies such as the American Agents Alliance and the National Fire Protection Association, along with esteemed academics and fire safety professionals. This breadth of support highlights the urgent need for robust building practices that can withstand California's increasingly volatile wildfire risks.

As the coalition urges swift action, Los Angeles stands at a critical juncture. Rebuilding with resilience in mind offers a pathway not only for safer homes but also for the revitalization of communities that have faced relentless natural disasters. By adopting the proposed building codes and regulations, Los Angeles can pave the way for a future where homes are not merely structures but safe havens shielded from the ravages of wildfire risks. This imperative is not just an opportunity; it is an urgent necessity for the safety and well-being of all who call Los Angeles home.