Fire Law Blog Fire Service and Public Safety Legal Issues Blog by Curt Varone
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection is suing the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power to recoup the costs associated with battling the Powerhouse fire in 2013. The suit alleges the fire was started by arcing power lines that dropped burning metal into dry brush.
The Powerhouse fire burned more than 30,000 acres and took over a week to extinguish. Fifty-eight structures were destroyed and at least ten people were injured. It was the third largest fire in California in 2013.
Cal Fire is seeking $4.2 million to cover its costs. The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power is an agency of the City of Los Angeles. Attorneys for the city are reportedly reviewing the lawsuit.
