On Friday, January 17, 2025, California Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order barring landlords from evicting tenants who offer shelter to residents impacted by spreading wildfires in the area. However, the order, which remains in effect until March 8, 2025, does not prohibit landlords from enforcing other lease restrictions regarding criminal activity or property damage. Ultimately, the Governor hopes his latest executive order will be “an interim solution to provide immediate relief and clarity to protect tenants and survivors.”
“At a time when so many have been suddenly displaced, we need more housing and shelter than ever. Opening your place of residence to help shelter those in need is not only encouraged and generous, but deserves to be protected,” Newsom stated.
Newsom’s latest executive order builds upon an additional declaration put forth on Thursday, January 16, 2025. Under Newsom’s direction, price gouging prohibitions on hotel, motel, and rental housing in Los Angeles County will remain in place until March 8, 2025. In addition, fees for mobile home parks will be suspsended, construction and occupancy of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) should be streamlined and state departments are directed to support local governments as they develop temporary housing plans.
“As thousands of Los Angeles residents have been faced with sudden displacement, the state is taking decisive action to help provide housing and assistance as quickly as possible,” Newsom stated. “Today, we are expediting the creation of new temporary housing by removing roadblocks and strengthening protections against exploitation.”
“Red Flag” warnings remain in place throughout the Los Angeles County area until Tuesday, January 21 at 10 PST as wind gusts are expected to rise above 25 miles per hour through Monday evening and Tuesday morning. Thus far, wildfires in Southern California have ravaged more than 10,000 homes and left more than two dozen dead.
