L.A. Considers Expanding Power to Remove Hillside Homeless Camps

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The Los Angeles City Council is considering a proposal that would grant the city more authority to remove homeless encampments from hillside areas deemed at high risk of fire, even without the permission of the property owner. The move comes amid concerns over the fire danger posed by these encampments in the city's fire-prone regions.

Why it matters

Homeless encampments on hillsides have become an increasing concern in Los Angeles due to the heightened fire risk they pose, especially in areas with dry vegetation and limited access for emergency responders. This proposal aims to give the city more tools to address this public safety issue, though it raises questions about balancing public safety with the rights of unhoused individuals.

The details

Under the proposed policy, the city would be able to remove hazardous materials, including homeless encampments, from hillside areas deemed at severe risk of fire, even without the property owner's permission. This would mark an expansion of the city's current authority, which requires property owner consent before removing encampments.

• The Los Angeles City Council moved the proposal forward on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.

What’s next

The City Council will likely vote on the proposal in the coming weeks, and if approved, the new policy could go into effect shortly after.