Rebuilding After Wildfire: Resilience and Sustainability in Focus

April 2025 – In collaboration with Arup, the U.S. Green Building Council – California (USGBC-CA) has released a new guide to help communities rebuild after wildfires with resilience, equity, and long-term sustainability at the forefront. Drawing from lessons learned in previous disasters, the guide provides a framework for integrating climate-smart strategies into rebuilding efforts across California.

Key Themes of the Guide:

• Build Back Better: Rebuilding is more than replacement—it’s an opportunity to reduce risk and design for future climate conditions.
• People-Centered Recovery: Emphasizes community involvement, equity, and long-term affordability in recovery planning.
• Coordinated Response: Encourages alignment among agencies, departments, and partners for effective implementation.

With practical tools and actionable steps, this handout serves as a resource for local governments, agencies, and building professionals aiming to rebuild stronger, safer, and more equitably.

Download the full guide here: USGBC-CA Rebuilding Handout PDF

SEAOC Recommendations on Evaluating & Reusing Foundations After Wildfires

February 2025 – The new guidelines for evaluating fire-damaged foundations emphasize safety in rebuilding efforts. These guidelines help engineers assess the stability and safety of foundations affected by fires, focusing on debris removal, soil testing, and structural evaluation.

Key Actions in the Guidelines:

• Foundation Assessment: Ensures thorough investigation of fire-damaged foundations for reusability.
• Soil Contamination Testing: Prioritizes safety through soil analysis to detect contamination.
• Financial Aid and Consultation: Encourages seeking professional advice for effective rebuilding.

For more details, visit: Fire Damage Foundation Guidelines.

ICC-ES Expedited Support Boosts Los Angeles Rebuilding Efforts

February 12, 2025 – ICC Evaluation Service (ICC-ES) is actively supporting Los Angeles’ rebuilding efforts following recent devastating wildfires by implementing several key initiatives:

• Priority Evaluations: ICC-ES is offering expedited evaluations for building products and systems to ensure swift approval and integration into reconstruction projects.
• On-Demand Engineering Support: The organization provides immediate engineering assistance to address technical challenges, facilitating smoother project execution.
• Complimentary LA City Supplement Reports: To streamline the approval process, ICC-ES offers free Los Angeles City supplement reports, aiding manufacturers and city officials in meeting critical rebuilding timelines.

These measures aim to accelerate the reconstruction process and ensure that rebuilding efforts adhere to safety and quality standards. 

For more information, visit: https://icc-es.org/wp-content/uploads/ICC-ES-Provides-Specialized-Support-to-Accelerate-Los-Angeles-Rebuilding-Efforts-NR.pdf.

Call for Volunteers: Structural Engineers Needed for the Foothill Catalog Foundation

June 2025 – In response to the devastating 2025 Los Angeles Wildfires, the Foothill Catalog Foundation was created to help affected communities rebuild with resilience and regional character. The initiative centers on creating a catalog of pre-approved home designs that blend affordability, efficiency, and the unique architectural style of the Foothill region.

Key Goals of the Foundation:

• Pre-Approved Home Plans: Develop standard designs that streamline permitting and reconstruction.
• Community Identity: Preserve the distinctive architectural character of fire-impacted neighborhoods.
• Affordable Rebuilding: Offer residents cost-effective pathways to rebuild their homes quickly and safely.

To achieve this, the Foundation is seeking structural engineers to contribute pro bono or discounted services to help design and prepare these plans. Your involvement can make a tangible difference for families striving to rebuild their homes and communities.

Interested in contributing? Learn more or get involved here.