Santa Cruz County opens center to help fire victims with rebuilding process

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, Calif. (KION) In an effort to help victims of the CZU Lightning Complex fires rebuild, the county has opened a Recovery Permit Center.

At the center, residents can get help with building permits to replace homes or other structures that were damaged or destroyed in the fires. The center will offer tech help, streamlined permit processes, information about pre-application clearances and support as they start rebuilding.

“We encourage all residents to begin discussing their rebuilding plans with us as soon as they can,” Planning Director Kathy Molloy said. “By having these conversations early, we can help fulfill our mission of making the rebuilding process as smooth as possible for residents impacted by the fire.”

The center is open by appointment only. It is open between 8 a.m. and noon and 1 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. To schedule a virtual appointment, call 831-454-5323, email RPC@santacruzcounty.us or schedule it online here. Limited in-person appointments are also available.