Newsom also signed another executive order that suspends some local permitting laws and building codes for fire-afflicted communities with the aim of further speeding up reconstruction. Revising the state’s environmental laws was seen by some observers as a sign that the Golden State was finally seeing the light. More than 800 homeowners in areas affected by wildfires applied for rebuilding permits as of July 7, according to the Los Angeles Times. The City of Los Angeles takes about 55 days on average to approve a wildfire rebuild, and the broader Los Angeles County takes even longer. Other factors, like more expensive construction materials and labor shortages, are still driving up housing construction costs, regardless of permitting speeds.