Overgrown lots in Altadena, Palisades pose fire risk. L.A. County is pushing to clear them

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Set us as preferred As the Eaton and Palisades fires roared across the Altadena area and the coastal Santa Monica Mountains in January 2025, the flames were fueled in part by accumulations of bone-dry chaparral, brush and other vegetation.The fires eviscerated many of the plants and trees in and around the burn zones, leaving behind barren lots and charred swaths of parkland.But over the nearly one-and-a-half years since the 2025 mega-fires, native and invasive grasses, bushes and trees have begun to regrow, weaving flammable greenery across the landscape.At the same time, many owners of homes and businesses that burned down are more focused on navigating the byzantine rebuilding process and trying to sell their lots than on maintaining their properties.Some whose homes and businesses survived are increasingly concerned about the risks posed by surrounding lots consumed by unchecked vegetation.

Their concerns are heightened by the fact that the region is heading into peak fire season after four months with minimal precipitation.Keeping the encroaching natural world at bay is a struggle in neighborhoods adjacent to Los Angeles County’s wildlands.The county, local agencies, utilities and property owners are in a constant battle with the flora and fauna just beyond fencelines and backyards.

Climate & Environment Wildfire resiliency advocates warn that reduced funding could leave California more vulnerable to devastation, and are calling on California leaders to act.Earlier this month, the county Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a measure aimed at ensuring that the thousands of empty lots in unincorporated Altadena and Sunset Mesa, a small residential enclave bordering Pacific Palisades, are not left untended.Co-authored by Supervisors Kathryn Barger and Lindsey Horvath, who represent Altadena and Sunset Mesa, resp...