Malibu proposes arresting homeless people to prevent wildfires

The city of Malibu, which has been frequently ravaged by wildfires, including January’s Palisades Fire, wants to crack down on unpermitted camping over fears that homeless people could spark another devastating fire.

The Malibu City Council last month declared a state of emergency and directed the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department to remove people in encampments and, if needed, arrest those who refuse to leave. This allows the city to expedite the removal of encampments in areas deemed to have a “very high” fire risk.

“Declaring a local emergency is an important proactive safety measure,” the city said in a statement. “Cooking fires in encampments pose a particular danger, as open flames can quickly ignite dry vegetation.”

California state law typically requires a notice period of at least 48 hours before encampments can be cleared. The declaration shortens that to one day.

Any removal of encampments would work in conjunction with the city and county’s homeless outreach teams, officials said.

“We are stepping up enforcement if there is illegal activity, especially fires, but we lead with compassion,” said Malibu Mayor Marianne Riggins. “Our first priority is always getting people housed and connected to the resources they need.”

January’s Palisades Fire scorched more than 23,000 acres and destroyed 6,800 structures – many of them homes.

Two weeks ago, local and federal authorities announced the arrest of an Uber driver for allegedly starting a fire shortly after midnight on New Year’s Eve that smoldered underground until Santa Ana winds rekindled the flames on January 7, becoming the Palisades Fire. Jonathan Rinderknecht, 29, of Melbourne, Florida, who was not homeless, faces several felony charges that could land him in prison for 20 to 45 years, if convicted.

Since 2021, Malibu has responded to more than 30 encampment fires, officials said.

In the last point-in-time count, Malibu estimated its homeless population at 21 individuals in 25 “dwellings,” which include cars, vans, RVs, tents, and makeshift shelters.