During Monday’s City Council meeting at City Hall, Malibu officials highlighted two key milestones in the community’s recovery from the devastating January 2025 Palisades Fire. City Manager Joe Irvin reported that the city has issued its first certificate of occupancy for a home that was destroyed or heavily damaged in the blaze, and that the 100th permit allowing a property owner to begin reconstruction has now been granted.
First Certificate of Occupancy
Denise and George Toberman of Big Rock received the certificate of occupancy for their rebuilt residence, marking the completion of the city’s final inspection process. The Tobermans obtained their rebuilding permit in October 2025 and finished construction in just 11 months, a timeline that Irvin praised as a tangible sign of recovery.
“This is a milestone that brings the meaning of recovery home in a very real way,” Irvin said. “The first certificate of occupancy means that a Malibu family can finally return to a home that was lost in the Palisades Fire.”
Denise Toberman added, “Coming home is something I have looked forward to since the fire. I hope seeing this first completed home gives other Malibu families hope that they can get there, too, with persistence and help.”
100 Rebuilding Permits Issued
In the same announcement, Irvin noted that the city has now issued 100 permits for property owners to begin reconstruction. “Reaching 100 permits shows that rebuilding is moving forward throughout our community,” he said. “We know there is still a long road ahead for many families, and the city remains committed to helping every property owner navigate the process and get home.”
The city’s rebuilding process involves several steps. First, a planning review determines where and what can be rebuilt, ensuring compliance with local zoning and safety standards. Next, a building plan review checks that proposed designs meet the California Building Code and any fire‑safety requirements introduced after the Palisades Fire.
During construction, city inspectors conduct required inspections at key milestones, such as foundation, framing, and electrical work. Once a home passes its final inspection, the city issues a certificate of occupancy, which legally permits the homeowner to move back in.
Community Impact and Ongoing Support
Mayor (or council member) insert name emphasized that the milestones reflect both the resilience of Malibu residents and the city’s dedication to a safe, orderly recovery. The administration continues to provide resources, including a dedicated rebuilding hotline, assistance with insurance claims, and coordination with state and federal agencies for disaster relief funding.
While the Tobermans’ home is the first to receive a certificate of occupancy, dozens of other families remain in temporary housing or are still navigating the permitting process. The city’s planning department has scheduled additional public workshops to help homeowners understand the new requirements and to answer questions about fire‑resistant construction methods.
Irvin concluded, “We are proud of the progress made, but we remain focused on ensuring every Malibu family can safely return to their homes. The road ahead is long, but together we will rebuild stronger and more resilient than before.”
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
