Malibu Sues California Over Devastating Palisades Fire Damages

City alleges 'unlawful conduct' led to 12 deaths, 700 homes destroyed

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The city of Malibu has filed a lawsuit against the state of California, the city of Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, and several other public entities, alleging its 'entire character' was irrevocably altered by the Palisades Fire and seeking damages related to property loss, business interruption, and diminished city revenue.

Why it matters

This lawsuit represents Malibu's attempt to hold regional authorities accountable for what the city claims were failures in addressing the burn scar from a previous fire, leading to the devastating Palisades Fire. The outcome could have significant implications for Malibu's relationship with its government partners and the long-term fiscal impact on the city and its taxpayers.

The details

According to the complaint, the Palisades Fire was 'not an accident' but a 'foreseeable and proximate result of unlawful conduct' by the defendants, including failures in addressing the Lachman fire burn scar, reservoirs being 'empty for over a year,' and a lack of adequate 'essential firefighting infrastructure.' The ensuing blaze resulted in 12 fatalities, half of whom were Malibu residents, and destroyed approximately 700 homes and dozens of businesses.

  • The Palisades Fire ignited on January 7, 2025, according to the city's complaint.
  • Malibu filed the civil complaint in Los Angeles County Superior Court on Wednesday.

The players

Malibu

The city of Malibu, which is seeking damages from regional authorities over the devastating Palisades Fire.

California Department of Parks and Recreation

One of the defendants named in Malibu's lawsuit.

Los Angeles Department of Water and Power

One of the defendants named in Malibu's lawsuit.

Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority

One of the defendants named in Malibu's lawsuit.

Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy

One of the defendants named in Malibu's lawsuit.

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What they’re saying

“The lawsuit seeks accountability for the extraordinary losses suffered by our community although recognizing that Malibu must continue to work collaboratively with our regional partners going forward.”

— Bruce Silverstein, Mayor of Malibu (newsy-today.com)

“This decision was not made lightly, and we affirm our obligation to act in the best interests of our residents and taxpayers.”

— Bruce Silverstein, Mayor of Malibu (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

The judge will likely set a timeline for the legal proceedings, and the defendants will have the opportunity to respond to the allegations in the complaint.

The takeaway

This lawsuit represents Malibu's attempt to seek accountability and financial redress for the devastating impacts of the Palisades Fire, while also recognizing the need to maintain collaborative relationships with regional partners. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for the city's long-term recovery and its relationship with state and local authorities.