City of Malibu, CA

11/19/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/19/2024 14:49

City Manager Updates November 19, 2024 UPCOMING

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2024

UPCOMING


KEY ANNOUNCEMENTS

(NEW) CITY RESPONSE DURING HIGH WINDS, PSPS POWER OUTAGE AND BROAD FIRE, NOVEMBER 6 - 8

A brush fire ignited at 9:00 AM on November 6 in brush adjacent to Malibu Bluffs Park amidst extremely dangerous Red Flag fire conditions, with Santa Ana winds up to 50 MPH, very low humidity, and widespread Southern California Edison Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS). Thanks to the swift response by the Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACOFD), the blaze was stopped at 33 acres. Unfortunately, four homes were damaged. We are grateful there were no injuries, and the City is in contact with the homeowners to offer assistance. The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department promptly issued a shelter-in-place order to ensure the safety of Malibu Road residents.

The City activated the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), providing 24-hour staffing to coordinate the emergency response and keep residents informed. City Hall and all other City facilities were was closed, and all programs and public meetings were suspended to focus on the emergency response.

The City's Fire Safety Liaisons were on the ground with firefighters on-scene at the Broad Fire, using LA RICS radios to communicate real-time information to the EOC to help with planning and awareness. At one point, Fire Safety Liaison Jerry Vandermeulen, a retired firefighter with decades of wildland fire experience, picked up a fire hose and helped douse the flames on one of the burning homes.

The City's Public Works Team deployed the City's generators to provide backup power to keep traffic signals functioning, due to the highly dangerous fire conditions and the potential for evacuations, and patrolled Malibu checking for road and infrastructure issues.

Staff coordinated with the Malibu Homeless Outreach Team throughout the high wind incident to conduct outreach among the homeless population, warn against starting warming or cooking fires, and to leave encampments. Two people were arrested for refusing to leave encampments. The City and the Sheriff's Department continue to proactively identify and remove encampments, and offer shelter and services, with increased efforts during fire season.

At Malibu Bluffs Park, an outdoor workout station was destroyed and a playground was damaged, and the Michael Landon Center was closed for air quality testing and smoke and soot cleanup to ensure a safe environment for the public and staff. The Center is expected to reopen for programs and activities soon.

By Thursday afternoon the high winds had subsided and the City deactivated the EOC. City Hall reopened to the public on Friday. Staff continued to closely monitor fire weather conditions and the power outage, and was ready to reactivate the EOC if necessary.

The City had been following the forecasted fire conditions and the potential for a PSPS, and posted continuous wildfire and power outage preparedness messages to the community starting several days in advance, and during the incident, via alerts, social media, the website, phone hotline, and PSA messages on 99.1 FM KBUU.

Residents were warned to be prepared for fires, evacuations, power outages, traffic signal outages, and to monitor emergency information on local news on AM and FM radio, and 99.1 FM KBUU using handheld or car radios, which will function when the power is out, and reminders to come to a complete stop at any non-functioning traffic signals, as required by law. During the incident, messages were posted about the status of the fire, PCH lane closures, power outage status, shelter in place order, and other safety information.

Malibu was very fortunate to have had only a small fire that was quickly stopped during such dangerous fire conditions. Fire season is not over, and the City remains committed to protecting lives and homes, and helping the community be prepared and resilient to wildfires.

CITY COUNCIL ACTS TO ADVANCE RECREATIONAL FACILITIES ON CITY-OWNED LANDS

On October 28, the Malibu City Council took significant steps to advance recreational facilities on city-owned properties, focusing on ball fields and a potential multigenerational community center as part of the Malibu Community Lands Project. The Council considered the final report on the comprehensive outreach and engagement project that the City has conducted over the last seven months to gather community input and generate ideas and proposals for the future uses of the City's five community lands that span over 61 acres.

On October 28, the Council directed staff to prioritize soccer and baseball/softball fields on the Ioki and Heathercliff parcels, initiating site design and grading work with on-call engineering consultants. Concurrently, the City will issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) to develop a master plan for a multigenerational community center/sports complex. This facility is envisioned to include amenities such as a pool, a gymnasium, a senior center, multipurpose space and a potential expansion of library services, ideally located on the Heathercliff parcel but with flexibility to consider the Ioki site as well.

In addition, the Council authorized staff to work with the developer team of Cross Creek Ranch (formerly La Paz Ranch) to create a conceptual rendering for a performing arts center on the La Paz site, also known as Parcel C. Under a 2023 settlement agreement with Cross Creek Ranch, the City secured planning support at no cost to assist in envisioning future uses for this property. As part of this agreement, the Cross Creek Ranch team will provide up to $100,000 in site planning and preliminary design services using their in-house and external planning resources, at the City's request. This collaboration provides Malibu with unique planning opportunities to serve the community with a versatile and thoughtfully designed performing arts space.

For more information about the Community Lands project, visit the website. For more details, click here, or below, to watch the video of the Council discussion and review the PowerPoint presentation.

CITY HALL / ADMINISTRATION

(new) MALIBU RECEIVES 23RD CONSECUTIVE AWARD FOR FINANCIAL REPORTING

The City of Malibu is proud to announce its 23rd consecutive Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting, awarded by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR). This prestigious recognition highlights Malibu's ongoing commitment to financial transparency and responsible management of taxpayer funds. Receiving the award for 23 consecutive years underscores the City's dedication to maintaining high standards in financial reporting, essential for funding critical community programs and being prepared for emergencies or economic challenges. The GFOA award is judged by an impartial panel of government finance professionals based on rigorous standards for transparency, clarity, and full disclosure in government financial reporting. The GFOA, a prominent association representing around 17,500 government finance professionals, established the Certificate of Achievement program in 1945 to encourage high standards in government accounting and transparency. For more information about Malibu's financial reporting, visit the Finance webpage.

PUBLIC SAFETY

(NEW) CITY FIRE SAFETY TEAM USES LA-RICS RADIOS FOR FIRST TIME DURING AN INCIDENT DURING BROAD FIRE

During the Broad Fire that started adjacent to Malibu Bluffs Park on November 6, the City's Fire Safety Liaisons used the City's new Los Angeles Regional Interoperable Communications System (LA-RICS) radios for the first time during a live incident. The Fire Safety Liaisons were able to communicate with the City's Emergency Operations Center (EOC) via the LA-RICS handheld radio, providing critical live updates while cell service was out. Personnel staffing the EOC were then able to relay and release critical incident updates to the public based on the observations and reports by the Fire Safety Liaisons. The LA-RICS radios proved to be a valuable asset to the City's response, providing communications when normal communication modes were down.

The Public Safety Department acquired LA-RICS handheld radios in October 2024. Currently, this new system allows staff to communicate with each other and the EOC with 99% coverage / reach across Malibu, thanks to numerous repeaters across the Santa Monica Mountains and Catalina. Once fully developed, this system will also enable City staff to communicate directly with police and fire personnel who are connected to the network.

(NEW) STATE LAW PROHIBITS PARKING WITHIN 20 FEET OF ANY INTERSECTION AS OF JANUARY 1, 2025

Stopping, standing, or parking a vehicle within 20 feet of any marked or unmarked crosswalk, or within 15 feet of any crosswalk with a curb extension, is prohibited under a new state law, and could result in a citation starting January 1, 2025. Assembly Bill 413, the "California Daylighting Law," is meant to improve pedestrian safety at intersections by making pedestrians who are crossing the street more visible to approaching vehicles. The law took effect on January 1, 2024, first allowing for warnings, unless the curb has already been painted red, or unless a sign is in place that prohibits parking. The City is conducting outreach to property owners to help them comply with these new safety regulations. Click here for more information.

(NEW) CITY COUNCIL PRESENTS COMMENDATION TO MALIBU HOMELESS OUTREACH TEAM

On November 12, the Malibu City Council proudly presented a commendation to the Malibu Homeless Outreach Team - Zachary Coil, Tiffany Stewart, Jimmy Gallardo, Christopher Green, and William Alvarado Cabrera from The People Concern. Their dedicated work has led to remarkable strides in both reducing homelessness and enhancing wildfire prevention in Malibu. By helping dozens of individuals transition from homelessness to housing each year, the team has driven down the Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count numbers for Malibu to their lowest level. The Outreach Team has also been instrumental in reducing wildfire risks by assisting with the City and the LA County Sheriff's Department in proactively removing encampments. They also conduct additional outreach during hazardous fire conditions to encourage unhoused people to get into shelters, to warn against starting warming or cooking fires, and to alert them to the potential for wildfire and evacuations for their own safety. Thanks to their proactive approach, fires linked to encampments have dropped from 23 in 2021 to just 5 in 2024. In collaboration with City staff and the LA County Sheriff's Department, they've cleared dozens of encampments, further ensuring community safety. The City is grateful for their dedication and tireless efforts to address homelessness in our community. Learn more about the City's efforts to address homelessness on the webpage.

(NEW) SIGN UP TO BE A VOLUNTEER WITH THE ANNUAL HOMELESS COUNT

Community members can register now to volunteer for the Los Angeles Homeless Authority's (LAHSA) 2025 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count taking place in Malibu on Thursday, January 23, 2025. Every year, thousands of volunteers help conduct the Homeless Count, the annual census of people experiencing homelessness across Los Angeles County to inform homelessness policy decisions and better direct resources to be able to address the homelessness crisis. Learn more and sign up to volunteer on the LAHSA website. For further questions, contact Public Safety Coordinator Luis Flores at 310-456-2489, ext.236 or [email protected].

(NEW) HOMELESS OUTREACH UPDATE

The City's Homeless Outreach Team, which consists of three outreach workers from The People Concern, reported that in October 2024, it engaged with 65 people experiencing homelessness in Malibu, 12 of whom were relocated, or placed in permanent or interim housing where they will be connected to a broad network of services. Current and past monthly Homeless Outreach reports are available on the webpage.

PSPS POWER OUTAGE RESPONSE PROTOCOLS

During peak fire season, Malibu will likely experience several Southern California Edison (SCE) Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) to hazardous fire conditions (gusty Santa Ana winds and low humidity). PSPS outages in Malibu commonly result in multiple traffic signals on Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) being disabled for extended periods. That raises public safety concerns about the potential for traffic collisions caused by motorists not stopping at non-operating traffic signals, which is required under California law.

The City's PSPS response focuses on keeping essential services operational and the public informed and prepared for power outages during highly hazardous fire conditions. Before a PSPS event, the City takes preventive measures such as checking and maintaining backup generators and securing resources that might be needed for extended outages. The City purchased generators in 2019 in response to the Woolsey Fire evacuations, and developed agreements and guidelines with Caltrans, which owns and controls the traffic signals on Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Caltrans will allow the backup generators to be deployed to power traffic signals to facilitate emergency evacuations or during emergencies, as determined by the City Manager.

Power outage preparedness and public safety information is shared with the community via alerts, social media and the website. The messaging includes preparedness information for power outages, evacuations, fires, malfunctioning traffic signals and hazardous road conditions. Messaging also includes warnings to come to a complete stop at any malfunctioning traffic signals, which is required under California law. The City's multiple Changeable Message Signs are programmed with a message warning motorists about potential malfunctioning traffic signals.

During a PSPS event, City Hall's backup generators ensure that City services and emergency coordination can continue. The City's CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) volunteers may be mobilized to assist with essential functions or to support residents with special needs, and the Sheriff's Volunteers on Patrol (VOPs) may be deployed to assist with traffic control and to respond to traffic incidents. In prolonged outages, the City may activate community resource center(s) where residents can charge devices, access information, and seek assistance.

Residents are urged to visit SCE's PSPS website to sign up for notifications about PSPS events from SCE, and to monitor the outage map whenever hazardous fire weather is forecast for Malibu. For more details, see the City's PSPS response protocols.


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ) ON HOMELESSNESS IN MALIBU

The City has compiled a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on homelessness in Malibu, covering the City's actions and abilities to address homelessness, implications of recent court decisions, jurisdictions, encampments, fire season considerations, and more. See the complete FAQ.

  • For more information about the City's efforts to address homelessness in the community, visit the webpage.
  • For questions or concerns, contact Luis Flores, Public Safety Coordinator at [email protected] or call 310-456-2489, ext. 236.
  • To request homeless outreach services, contact the Malibu Homeless Outreach Team (The People Concern) at [email protected] or call 310-460-2638.
  • To report a person experiencing homelessness who appears to be a danger to themselves or others, contact the Malibu / Lost Hills Sheriff's Station at 818-878-1808.

FIRE SAFETY

(NEW) VIDEO - MAKE A RED FLAG PLAN TO BE PREPARED FOR WILDFIRES

It is crucial that every family create a Red Flag Plan so that when a Red Flag Warning is issued, you're ready to act to keep yourself and your family safe. The good news is, we don't need to be caught off-guard. We know that these fire conditions are coming around the same time every year, and we have time to prepare. There is also a shared responsibility among the City, the community, and first responders to achieving community-wide preparedness and resilience.

  • Ready: Prepare your home and family. Clear brush around your property, harden your home against fire, and stock up on emergency supplies. Sign up for emergency alerts from the City and County. Sign up for alerts and see all current City alerts on the Alerts webpage. Sign up for LA County emergency alerts.
  • Set: Be alert and ready to evacuate when Red Flag conditions are forecast. Monitor weather and emergency information on local news. Check your emergency supplies and review your emergency plans. Check on disabled or elderly neighbors. Make sure your vehicles are fueled, your garage doors are set to manual, and your bags are packed. Plan for your pets.
  • Go: When authorities say it's time to evacuate, go immediately. Close all windows, doors, and gates before you leave.
  • Click here to print and download the Red Flag Plan flyer. For more detailed information, see the LA County Ready Set Go wildfire guide. For more assistance with preparing your Red Flag Plan, contact the Fire Safety Liaisons at [email protected].
  • Click here, or below, to watch the Red Flag Plan video.

(NEW) RAMBLA PACIFICO BECOMES MALIBU'S NEWEST CERTIFIED FIREWISE COMMUNITY

The City's Fire Safety Liaisons have helped Rambla Pacifico to become the most recent neighborhood to achieve Firewise certified status. The City now has six Firewise neighborhoods in good standing: Big Rock Mesas, Malibu Country Estates, Malibu West, Malibu Canyon Village, Portico at Malibu, and Rambla Pacifico. Four other neighborhoods are in the certification process.

The City's Fire Safety Liaisons are available to help neighborhoods attain Firewise USA recognition, which improves fire safety and can help with fire insurance. Firewise USA is a free, voluntary program that provides a simple framework to help neighbors work together to improve wildfire safety and resilience in their neighborhoods. Any neighborhood, HOA, POA, condominium complex, or mobile home park with more than eight but fewer than 2,500 units is eligible to apply.

In addition to getting a Home Wildfire Assessment, becoming a recognized Firewise USA community is one of the factors that insurance companies must consider for discounts under new Department of Insurance Safer from Wildfires regulations. See details. As CAL FIRE designated Regional Coordinators, the Fire Safety Liaisons can help neighborhoods through the entire process. For more information and to schedule an appointment, visit Firewise website, or email Fire Safety Liaison Bradley Yocum at [email protected].

CITY COUNCIL DECLARES LOCAL EMERGENCY DUE TO HAZARDOUS FIRE CONDITIONS TO FACILITATE ENCAMPMENT REMOVAL

On October 14, the City Council declared a local emergency, initiating a program for reducing the risk of fires associated with people engaged in unpermitted camping, based on criteria established in June. The criteria were set at a Live Fuel Moisture (LFM) of 65% or less as determined by the LA County Fire Department (LACoFD) Forestry Division. On September 27, 2024, the Los Angeles County Fire Department Forestry Division posted an LFM of 65% for Santa Monica Mountains Chamise.

The LFM is the percentage of water content to dry matter in live vegetation. LFM can be as high as 300% and is considered critical at 60% or below. It should be noted that large fire growth may still occur with LFM levels as high as 80% if we have substantial wind and lower humidity. The LACoFD Forestry Division conducts sampling throughout the county approximately every two weeks and posts the results on its website.

(NEW) FIRE SEASON - HAZARDOUS FIRE WEATHER LOWER THAN EXPECTED THIS WEEK

  • LIVE FUEL MOISTURE AT 62% (60% IS CRITICAL)
  • UPDATE: PSPS NO LONGER BEING CONSIDERED IN EASTER MALIBU (NICHOLAS CIRCUIT) THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19

Fire conditions are much less severe than was forecast for this week. The Santa Ana winds are much weaker than was anticipated for Monday night through Thursday. As of Tuesday, November 19, winds in Malibu are around 3 MPH with gusts up to 16 MPH. Humidity is 29 - 43%, and for fires to spread quickly, humidity needs to be below 25%. During very hazardous fire conditions, humidity goes below 10%. This is all good news; we can still have a fire but its rate of spread will be at a speed that fire resources should be able to keep from becoming a large fire. We may get a little precipitation this weekend and a little early next week. Every bit is good.

Malibu's Live Fuel Moisture (LFM) levels were at 62% as of October 29, the last sampling, down from 67% on September 27. That is in line with the historical average for this time of year. The strong vegetation growth from last winter's heavy winter rains is drying out quickly, and is near the critical 60% level, which will greatly increase the fire hazard risk, especially when the seasonal hot, dry Santa Ana winds begin. LFM is the water content percentage of living vegetation, and an important indicator of how fast and large a brush fire can spread. LFM is measured every two weeks by the LA County Fire Department and posted on the website. Throughout fire season, residents should regularly monitor wildfire weather conditions on local news and at the NWS Los Angeles / Oxnard website. (See preparedness tips below).

UPDATE: Southern California Edison is no longer considering a Public Safety Power Shutoff in easter Malibu (Nicholas Circuit) November 19.

WHAT DOES "RED FLAG MEAN"? - GET FAMILIAR WITH TERMS USED FOR WILDFIRE CONDITIONS

We are now in fire season, and residents should closely monitor the weather and fire conditions on local news and the NWS LA/Oxnard website and be familiar with these terms that the Fire Department and other agencies use.

Red Flag Event - Red Flag Events are defined by critical weather and fire danger conditions that could lead to extensive wildfire occurrences and/or control problems on existing wildfires or prescribed burns. These conditions occur when relative humidity is 15% or lower, together sustained winds or frequent gusts of 25 MPH or more, for at least three hours in a 12-hour period. Red Flag events normally require the combination of critical fuel conditions (very low Live Fuel Moisture) and critical weather conditions (high wind and low humidity). Several combinations of fuels and weather conditions may combine to produce a Red Flag Event. These conditions, driven by the Santa Ana winds, create the highest risk for wildfires to grow fast, large, and powerful, and to spread quickly, threatening lives and property.

Fire Weather Watch - A fire weather watch is issued to advise partner agencies of the possible development of Red Flag conditions in the near future, generally the next 24 to 72 hours. Under certain conditions, a watch can be issued for the first 12 hours.

Red Flag Warning - A Red Flag Warning is issued to advise agencies of occurring or imminent Red Flag conditions, generally within the next 12 to 24 hours.


GENERAL WILDFIRE PREPAREDNESS


GET PREPARED NOW - Now is the time to get prepared! It is crucial to complete your mandatory brush clearance. Check your family or business emergency plans and supplies, and check for expiration dates of food, medication, water and batteries. Remember your pets! Seniors, people with disabilities or mobility challenges, and owners of horses and other large animals should make special plans to be able to evacuate early and safely.

HOME/PROPERTY HARDENING - Focus on clearing defensible space around your home, moving any flammable material and dead vegetation away from the house. Schedule your free Home Wildfire Assessment with our Fire Safety Liaisons. They will come to your home and point out easy steps to protect your home from the millions of flying, burning embers that can fly out more than a mile ahead of a wind-driven fire, a leading cause of homes burning down during wildfires.

PREPAREDNESS PLAN & EMERGENCY SUPPLIES - Learn how to create a family or business emergency plan and gather supplies in the City's Emergency Survival Guide. Include evacuation routes and reunification locations and an out-of-state emergency contact, sign up for emergency alerts from the City and Los Angeles County, and be sure to check in on elderly or disabled neighbors to ensure that they are informed and prepared.

GET HELP FROM THE CITY'S FIRE SAFETY LIAISONS - For assistance or information about brush clearance, or to schedule a Home Wildfire Assessment, or for guidance on wildfire preparedness for your family or business, please contact our Fire Safety Liaisons at [email protected] or call 310-456-2489.

COMPLETING YOUR MANDATORY BRUSH CLEARANCE IS STILL CRITICAL

The June 1 deadline for mandatory brush clearance has passed, but it is still crucial for Malibu homeowners to get started on their mandatory brush clearance. Proper brush clearance is one of the most important ways to make your home and the community more resistant to wildfires. If you have not yet completed your brush clearance and need help or information, please contact our Fire Safety Liaisons at [email protected] or call 310-456-2489, we are here to help you. Brush clearance helps create the "defensible space" that firefighters need to safely and effectively protect life, property, and the environment. Be sure to complete your brush clearance before the June 1 deadline to avoid fines. For more information including a list of vendors, maps, a video and more, visit the LA County Fire Department website.

SIGN UP NOW FOR A HOME WILDFIRE ASSESSMENT AND ASSISTANCE WITH BRUSH CLEARANCE

In addition to completing mandatory brush clearance, one of the best ways to protect your home and community is to get a free Home Wildfire Assessment. The assessment involves a 30-to-60-minute exterior inspection of your property by the City's Fire Safety Liaisons looking at what can be done to make the home and property less vulnerable to the millions of flying embers from a wind-driven wildfire, a leading cause of homes burning down in wildfires. You'll get a checklist of steps to take to harden your property, such as removing dead vegetation or wood furniture that is touching the house and covering attic vents with fine steel mesh. For more information and to schedule a free Home Wildfire Assessment, visit the Fire Safety webpage or call 310-456-2489, ext. 238, or email [email protected].


APPLICATIONS AGAIN BEING ACCEPTED FOR FREE HAZARD TREE REMOVAL PROGRAM

PROGRAM APPLIES TO DEAD TREES ONLY. OPEN TO MALIBU CITY RESIDENTS ONLY. The City is once again accepting applications for the free Hazard Tree Removal Program. The City secured an additional $326,000 in grant funding to extend the popular program. This is the third round since the program started in 2021. The program is one of the concrete steps that the City is taking to improve wildfire safety across the community in Malibu. It empowers residents to make their homes and properties less vulnerable to wildfire, which in turn protects entire neighborhoods by reducing the fuel that fires need to spread. The City's Fire Safety Liaisons and a licensed arborist will come to your home and determine if the trees meet the program's criteria for removal. For more information and to sign up, visit the webpage.

PLANNING

DEVELOPMENT PORTAL - ADU PLANNING SUBMITTALS

In an effort to streamline submissions of Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) planning applications, the Planning Department launched the ADU application option to the Development Portal. These application requests will be flagged for processing. In April 2024, the City launched the Development Portal for applicants or owners to quickly and easily submit projects, get status updates, keep track of progress on their projects, and manage documents and fees. It also allows access to individual projects, real-time updates, Departments' revisions, required documents, and fee information. Since launching the portal, 650 building professionals and residents have registered, and more than 6,000 documents have been uploaded. Click here to access the Portal.

LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT PLANNING REVIEW UPDATE

The Planning Department recently initiated a periodic update of Planning Review Process with the Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACoFD) Fire Prevention Unit. Staff from both agencies reviewed the types of Malibu applications and projects that require Fire Department plan review in the initial planning conformance review phase. Using the Planning Department's Guide to Los Angeles County Fire Department and Water District Routing, the LACoFD Fire Prevention and Forestry Fuel Modification Units review planning applications to ensure emergency apparatus access, water supply for fire protection,review ofarchitectural drawings for means of egress requirements, as well as review landscape plans for structures located in the Fire Hazard Severity Zones. The joint effort resulted in numerous instances where the LACoFD waived the need to be involved in a formal review process, simplifying the City's planning process and timeline for applicants. For more information, review the Planning Department's Guide to Los Angeles County Fire Department and Water District Routing.

(NEW) MALIBU REBUILDS - STATISTICS

Rebuilding from the Woolsey Fire remains a top priority for the City. Here are the current Woolsey Fire rebuild statistics. See continuously updated statistics on the Rebuild Portal. Out of 465 destroyed homes:

  • Single-family home rebuild applications submitted: 373
    (of which 362 have been approved by the Planning Department)
  • Single-family home rebuild applications under planning review: 11
  • Single-family homes complete: 179
  • Multifamily building units complete: 18
  • Multifamily building permits issued: 18
  • Projects under construction: 119
  • Inspections approved: 10,845
  • Inspections total: 19,444
  • Single-family home rebuild building permits issued: 296


DEVELOPMENT PORTAL - ADU PLANNING SUBMITTALS

In an effort to streamline the submittal of an Accessory Dwelling Unit planning application, the Planning Department launched the ADU submittal option to the Development Portal. These application requests will be flagged for processing. In April 2024, the City launched the Development Portal for applicants or owners to submit projects, get status updates, keep track of progress on their projects, and manage documents and fees. Property owners have access to individual projects, real-time updates, Departments' revisions, required documents, and fee information. Since launching the portal, 650 building professionals and residents have registered and over 6,000 documents have been uploaded. Click here to access the Portal.

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY AND BUILDING SAFETY

(NEW) PREPAREDNESS FOR EXTREMELY HIGH KING TIDES

California's highest tides this year (the King Tides) are set to occur November 15-17 and December 13-15. King Tides are unique in that they give us a clear glimpse of how rising sea levels may impact on our coastline in the future. Though the King Tides are natural and predictable, they can pose significant risks to coastal communities like Malibu, especially if combined with winter storm conditions. For Malibu residents along the coast, these upcoming King Tides may result in localized flooding, beach erosion, and potential damage to beachfront properties.

Checklist for Preparing for King Tides (beachfront properties):

  1. Secure Outdoor Items: Move outdoor furniture, décor, and any loose items inside or to higher ground to prevent them from being swept away.
  1. Prepare Sandbags: If paired with winter storms, consider placing sandbags around low-lying areas to redirect or absorb water and prevent flooding in homes or garages. Residents can pick up free sandbags by providing proof of residency to local Los Angeles County Fire Stations while supplies last. Note that plastic or plastic-based sandbags are banned in Malibu.
  1. Home inspections: Begin to visually inspect all structures, including seawalls, revetments, and bulkheads, for signs of distress, loss of material, obstructed drainage, or exposed reinforcing steel. If significant problems are observed, the property owner may consider contacting a California-licensed engineer for maintenance suggestions.
  1. Prepare an Emergency Kit: If the tides reach an essential power supply, ensure you have essential items, such as flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies, and emergency contact information.
  1. Stay Informed: Monitor weather and tidal forecasts and be aware of any potential warnings or advisories from local authorities. To follow tide patterns, visit Tide Times and Tide Chart for Malibu.

For additional resources, please visit the California Coastal Commission's California King Tides Project or use their interactive map here: California King Tides Project 2018 - 2025

OWTS PRACTITIONER MEETINGS

The City invites registered onsite wastewater treatment system (OWTS) practitioners that provide services in OWTS design, installation, inspection, and operation and maintenance to one-on-one meetings with the City's Environmental Health Administrator to discuss new requirements for home occupation uses that place additional strain on the OWTS, discuss the status of OWTS serving multi-family, commercial, and home-occupation use properties, provide feedback on the City's current practices, and help shape the agenda for an upcoming OWTS Practitioner-wide meeting. City-registered OWTS practitioners can schedule a meeting via Calendly. Additional information about the City's Environmental Health and Wastewater Management programs can be found on our website or by visiting Environmental Health's counter hours (Monday to Thursday, 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM).

TAKE THE COASTAL VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT SURVEY

The City invites community members to share their thoughts on the Coastal Vulnerability Assessment and projected impacts of sea level rise in Malibu. Community input is crucial as the City plans for the future. Click here to take the two-minute survey. The draft report and virtual workshop recording with technical results of projected sea-level rise impacts are available on the Coastal webpage. For more information, call 310-456-2489, ext. 390, or email [email protected].



COMMUNITY SERVICES

(NEW) WINTER RECREATION GUIDE AND CITY NEWSLETTER

The Winter 2024-25 Recreation Guide and City Newsletter is available online and will be mailed to residents the week of November 25. Winter programs occur from December through February and include Afterschool Programs in partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu, Bird Watching and Nature Walks at Legacy Park, Red Cross Babysitting Workshops, Malibu Marlins Swim Team, Parent and Me Programs, Poetry Workshops, and Senior Center Programs. The Recreation Guide includes information for upcoming special events, including Breakfast with Santa, Santa Paws, and the Student Art Exhibit. For information and to register, visit the Registration website.

(NEW) AFTERSCHOOL WORKSHOPS, DINO AND FAIRY GARDENING, NOVEMBER 19 & 20

Let your child's imagination soar in the Dino and Fairy Gardening Workshop for children in grades Kindergarten through 5 on Tuesday, November 19, at Webster Elementary School and Wednesday, November 20, at Malibu Elementary School. Workshops held in partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu from 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM. Pre-registration required. For information and to register, visit the Community Programs website.

MALIBU LIBRARY SPEAKER SERIES, NOVEMBER 20

Huma Abedin will discuss her first book, "Both/And," at the next Malibu Library Speaker Series, Wednesday, November 20, 7:00 PM at Malibu City Hall. Huma spent her entire career in public service and national politics and served as Deputy Chief of Staff at the U.S. Department of State. In her book, Abedin grapples with family, legacy, identity, faith, marriage, motherhood, and work with wisdom, sophistication, grace, and clarity. Free with required RSVP. For more information and to RSVP, visit the Library Speaker Series webpage.

LEGACY PARK NATURE WALK AND STORYTIME, NOVEMBER 20

Enjoy a guided nature walk through beautiful Legacy Park with park educators and naturalists on Wednesday, November 20, at 10:00 AM. The event is suitable for children ages five and under. Learn about the abundant birds, animals, and plants and explore nature close-up with a magnifying glass. The walk will culminate with Storytime at the amphitheater led by a Malibu librarian. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at the Malibu Library. The program is free, and reservations are required. For more information, visit the Outdoor Recreation webpage.

NOVEMBER POETRY PROGRAMS, NOVEMBER 23

Aspiring poets of all ages are invited to join the free poetry readings and workshops in November. An RSVP is not required. The Ripple Effect, a poetry writing workshop led by Poet Laureate Nathan Hassall, will be offered on Saturday, November 23, 2:00 PM at the Michael Landon Center at Malibu Bluffs Park. For more information, visit the Poetry webpage.

(NEW) THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY HOURS, NOVEMBER 27-29

View the City's facility and park listing, and holiday hours on the City's website.

  • City Parks, including sports fields, playgrounds, trails, and picnics areas, will be open 8:00 AM to Sunset on Thursday, November 28. The Temporary Skate Park and Michael Landon Center will be closed. Normal operating hours will resume on Friday, November 29.
  • The Malibu Community Swimming Pool will be closed Wednesday, November 27, through Friday, November 29. Normal operating hours will resume on Saturday, November 30.
  • The Malibu Senior Center at City Hall will be closed Thursday, November 28 and Friday, November 29. Normal operating hours will resume on Monday, December 2.

(NEW) BREAKFAST WITH SANTA, DECEMBER 7

'Tis the sea-sun! Enjoy a pancake breakfast and hot chocolate at Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, December 7, at Malibu City Hall, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM. The event includes art activities, story time with the Malibu Library, and photos with Surfing Santa and Mrs. Claus! Pre-registration is required and limited to 100 participants. For information, visit the Breakfast with Santa website.

FEMININE PERSPECTIVES: STILL LIFE ART EXHIBITION, OPEN THROUGH JANUARY 3

Discover the captivating world of still life at "Feminine Perspectives: A Still Life Exhibit," showcasing six talented female artists. Each artist brings a unique perspective, transforming everyday objects into powerful statements of beauty, culture, and identity. The exhibition will be displayed through January 3, 2025, at the Malibu City Gallery, open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Tickets or RSVPs are not required to visit the Gallery. For more information, visit the Arts Commission website.

PUBLIC WORKS

(NEW) DAY AND NIGHT PCH LANE CLOSURE, CORRAL - LATIGO, NOVEMBER 13 - 27

Caltrans will close one northbound lane of PCH from Corral Cyn Rd to Latigo Cyn Rd starting November 13 for about two weeks, day and night, for rockslide work. Signs are posted. A large mudslide occurred at this site during heavy winter rainstorms in February. A rock fence and K-rails were installed as a safety measure, but more rocks and dirt recently fell against the barrier. Crews will clear slide debris and loose rocks on the hillside during daytime hours. The lane closure will remain in place overnight for public safety. Watch for workers and work vehicles in the road. Traffic fines are doubled in construction zones.

OUTREACH & FEEDBACK

E-NOTIFICATIONS

The City maintains a robust e-notification systemso the community can stay informed about all the City's activities. Sign up to receive messages by text or email on the City's e-notifications page.

FURTHER QUESTIONS

For questions or comments, contact the City Manager at [email protected].

See Past City Manager Updates