Trump Takes Control of LA Wildfire Rebuild Permits

President issues executive order overriding state and local jurisdiction over permitting process.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 4:23pm

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President Trump has signed an executive order that moves permitting authority for the rebuilding process in Los Angeles from California and local governments to the federal government. The order cites slow progress on the rebuild and criticizes the leadership of Governor Newsom and Mayor Bass. In response, Newsom's office has accused Trump of withholding federal disaster funding needed for the rebuild.

Why it matters

The order represents an escalation in the ongoing political feud between Trump and California's Democratic leadership. It also raises questions about the balance of power between federal, state, and local governments in disaster response and recovery efforts.

The details

Trump's executive order authorizes FEMA and the SBA to set regulations and approve certifications for builders, overriding normal state and local permitting requirements. The order claims California and local agencies are moving too slowly on the rebuild, despite data showing thousands of permits have already been issued. Newsom's office argues the main obstacle is a lack of federal disaster funding, not the permitting process.

  • The executive order was signed on January 27, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president who issued the executive order taking control of the LA wildfire rebuild permitting process.

Gavin Newsom

The governor of California who accused Trump of withholding federal funding needed for the rebuild.

Karen Bass

The mayor of Los Angeles who called Trump's order a "meaningless political stunt".

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What they’re saying

“Trump has demonstrated a complete lack of leadership or compassion for this community, visiting the Palisades once and completely ignoring Altadena.”

— Spokesperson for Gavin Newsom

“The President should handle his business, because we are handling ours. Construction has started at more than 450 homes in Pacific Palisades and rebuilding plans are being approved in half the time compared to single-family home projects citywide before the wildfires, with more than 70% of home permit clearances no longer required.”

— Karen Bass, Mayor of Los Angeles

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.