The recent devastation caused by the Mendocino Lake Complex Fire has resulted in significant loss for Mendocino County residents. The County is assisting residents in the recovery efforts by offering the opportunity to have the toxic waste which was created by the fire safely removed from affected properties. The County is coordinating this program with CalOES, FEMA and the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers to provide direct assistance to property owners with the cleanup of fire debris.

Beginning October 24, 2017, California’s Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) and Mendocino County’s Environmental Health Services will be entering properties in the fire area to perform a limited inspection and removal of household hazardous waste. Once that is complete, there will be a short window in which property owners may choose to participate in a program to have burned structures removed by government contractors. In order to participate in the free program, property owners must complete a Right-of-Entry Agreement (ROE). The ROE form has been mailed out to affected property owners, with a return envelope included. In addition, forms will be available at the Local Assistance Center, Planning and Building Services and online at www.mendocinocounty.org/fireinfo. The forms can be mailed or returned in person to Planning and Building Services, 860 N Bush Street in Ukiah. The County encourages property owners to return the ROE this week to be included in the first round of cleanup.

If property owners choose to participate in this program, the fire debris will be removed from the property and the site will be cleaned to meet California’s environmental standards. The cleanup offered through this program is provided at no cost to the property owner. Property owners with fire insurance will need to provide insurance coverage information on the ROE form. Any insurance proceeds designated by their policy for debris cleanup must be contributed to the program. If property owners do not have fire insurance or if their policy does not have an item for debris cleanup, they are still eligible to participate in this program.

For more information please contact, Planning and Building Services at (707) 234-6650.

Debris Removal Program Frequently Asked Questions