Disaster Help Center

Report Unlawful Activity in a Disaster Zone

Do you have the address? Click HERE to report a contractor currently working at a debris removal or rebuild job site. The problem should relate to whether the contractor is validly licensed or has workers’ compensation insurance.

Did you hire the contractor? Click HERE to file a complaint against a contractor you hired to perform debris removal or wildfire rebuilding (select “Licensed and Unlicensed Project Complaints”).

Is there a worker safety concern? Report unsafe work conditions to Department of Industrial Relations - Cal / OSHA.

Opt-Out Fire Debris Removal in Los Angeles County

Property owners who opt-out of the government-run debris removal must use appropriately licensed contractors for any fire debris removal. Los Angeles County will only issue an Opt-Out Fire Debris Removal permit to a contractor that holds the CSLB Hazardous Substance Removal Certificate, and one of the following contractor license classifications: (A) General Engineering, (B) General Building, or (C-12) Earthwork and Paving AND (C-21) Building Moving / Demolition.

A list of contractors meeting this criteria can be downloaded by clicking here and selecting all of the following classifications from the drop-down list: HAZ-Hazardous Substance Removal Certification; A-General Engineering Contractor; B-General Building Contractor; C-12 Earthwork and Paving Contractor; C-21 Building Moving/Demolition Contractor.
Visit the LA County Recovers website for more information about debris removal and opting out.
The licensed prime contractor for the Opt-Out Fire Debris Removal permit performing debris removal must meet other requirements as an employer, including ensuring employees have the required Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) training. Here is 2025 Guidance from the Department of Industrial Relations with a page dedicated to clean up and rebuilding after a wildfire. Employers also need to ensure workers have the appropriate personal protective equipment. More details can be found in this Worker Safety flyer (English ) and (Spanish ).

Additional Resources

Consumers / Disaster Survivors
Unscrupulous, unlicensed contractors often prey on survivors of disasters. Learn how to protect yourself using CSLB’s resources, including the “Find My Licensed Contractor” and “License Check” features. LEARN MORE
Contractors
Contractors must hold a valid California contractor license in the appropriate classification to perform most work on homes and other structures damaged or destroyed in disasters. LEARN MORE
Media
Resources for the media include press releases, educational materials, and videos.LEARN MORE