Pasadena Implements Fast-Track Program to Address Wildfire Smoke and Ash Complaints

After the Eaton Fire (File Photo – Caltech)

Pasadena officials say they are continuing to investigate complaints related to wildfire smoke, ash, and soot in residential properties, while launching a temporary program designed to speed up inspections and remediation in areas most affected by wildfire conditions.

By News Desk

According to city officials, changes to state law adopted in October 2024 strengthened protections for tenants living in wildfire-impacted areas. The law, California Senate Bill 610, updated wildfire debris inspection standards and requires closer review of potential contamination in homes and rental units.

Jennifer Paige said the law considers the presence of debris from the Eaton Fire to be a substandard housing condition until it is confirmed that the debris does not contain toxic substances, regardless of the amount present.

To provide faster inspections in the areas most likely to be affected, the city has created a temporary Fast-Track Remediation Program that will run through April 11, 2026. The program applies to properties located north of the Interstate 210 and west of Sierra Madre Boulevard.

Under the fast-track system, when the city receives a complaint about wildfire-related smoke, ash, or soot within the designated area, landlords or property owners will be required to hire an environmental consultant or certified industrial hygienist to inspect the unit and determine whether remediation is necessary. Afterward, the city’s Code Compliance Division will conduct a follow-up inspection to confirm that any required cleanup or repairs have been completed.

Complaints from areas outside the program boundaries will be handled through the city’s standard wildfire debris inspection process. In those cases, city staff will conduct an initial inspection and may issue an Order to Comply requiring remediation if needed, followed by a reinspection to confirm the work has been completed.

Tenants who believe their rental unit may be affected by wildfire-related smoke, ash, or soot can request an inspection by contacting the city’s Code Compliance Division at (626) 744-8633 or by submitting a request online through the city’s service center.