LOS ANGELES, CA – Santa Monica has enacted a curfew as part of its emergency response to the devastating Palisades Fire, which has prompted evacuations and significant concerns for public safety.
City Manager David White signed the emergency order late Wednesday, instituting a curfew from sunset to sunrise in areas under mandatory evacuation. The order aims to bolster law enforcement’s ability to secure affected neighborhoods and prevent unauthorized access during the ongoing crisis.
The Santa Monica City Council will need to convene a special meeting within seven days to formally certify the emergency order, according to a statement released by the city.
“The Palisades Fire is currently impacting neighborhoods in the northern part of Santa Monica, with approximately 2,472 households under a mandatory evacuation order within the city and an additional 8,338 under a voluntary evacuation warning,” said Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete. “This emergency order further assists our first responders and protects residents as we navigate this regional crisis and prepare for recovery efforts.”
Law enforcement efforts, led by the Santa Monica Police Department and supported by mutual aid agencies, have been focused on evacuations and safeguarding property in affected areas. City officials emphasized that the curfew and emergency order are tools to enhance public safety.
“Our first responders are actively patrolling and coordinating with regional partners to manage this emergency on all fronts,” said White. “This order ensures that only authorized personnel enter evacuation zones, particularly to prevent criminal activity during this vulnerable time.”
The emergency order also includes measures aimed at addressing broader community needs:
- Temporarily allows schools impacted by the fire to operate in non-residential zones within Santa Monica.
- Suspends preferential parking rules for residents accommodating evacuees.
- Enforces a prohibition on price gouging for emergency and recovery goods and services.
- Prevents evictions of tenants offering shelter to evacuees and their pets.
- Halts construction in evacuation zones while extending deadlines for ongoing projects.
The Palisades Fire has already forced thousands of residents to flee, as flames fueled by high winds threaten communities from Santa Monica to Pacific Palisades. Officials have reported widespread destruction, including the loss of structures, while evacuation orders remain in place.
Santa Monica officials urge residents to stay informed about evacuation updates and adhere to all restrictions. Residents can visit the city’s official website or contact local hotlines for further information and assistance during this crisis.
