Pasadena Rebuilds: Progress and the Power of Community Spirit

Deer at Upper Hastings Ranch, January 2025 (File Photo – Daniel Peters)

As Pasadena continues its recovery from the devastating Eaton Fire, the City provides updates on permits, debris removal, and rebuilding progress.

By Rena Kurlander

Following the fire, the City issued red tags for 117 single-family residences, 12 multi-family units, 2 accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and 6 commercial structures. In total, 185 structures were lost, including smaller outbuildings such as sheds.

All red-tagged properties have now been cleared of fire debris. This includes properties that either opted out of or were ineligible for FEMA’s Private Property Debris Removal Program, ensuring affected areas are prepared for rebuilding.

To date, the City has received 38 rebuild applications: 27 for single-family homes, 5 for ADUs, and 6 for detached garages. Permits have already been issued for 5 single-family homes and 1 ADU. Additionally, 3 more single-family residential applications have been approved and are awaiting permit issuance.

“We Will Rebuild” sign in Upper Hastings Ranch (File Photo – UHRAPasadena)

Resilience and Community Spirit

Amid the rebuilding, neighborhoods are coming together to celebrate resilience. In Upper Hastings Ranch, residents are keeping their traditions alive with the annual Holiday Light Up. This year, neighbors created 81 handmade solar stars to honor those who lost homes in the Eaton Fire.

The stars, inspired by the parkway theme on Startouch, symbolize hope and renewal, a reminder that even after the fire, their lights still shine bright.

“We live in the best neighborhood in Pasadena,” one organizer shared. “Thank you to all who donated funds and supplies and came to help.”