Title: Airbnb Providing Complimentary Accommodations for Wildfire Evacuees
In the midst of the ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles, a variety of shelter options are available for displaced residents, including Airbnb. Joining forces with 211 LA, Airbnb.org – the charitable arm of the popular short-term rental platform – is offering emergency temporary housing for those forced out of their homes.
To take advantage of this assistance, residents from eligible areas must complete an intake form through 211 LA. Those living in Altadena, Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Pasadena, Santa Monica, and Sylmar fall under this category. In order to request aid, you'll need an Airbnb account or the capability to create one. Additionally, Airbnb hosts are welcome to sign up to provide free or discounted stays for those affected by disasters.
In case no Airbnb stays are available or you're seeking alternative shelter options, numerous hotels in the area are providing discounted rates for evacuees. Both Discover Los Angeles and Travel + Leisure have compiled lists of these hotels, as well as resorts across California and Nevada that have reduced fees, waived charges, or allowed pets with no additional cost.
For transportation assistance, Uber is offering free rides up to $40 using the code WILDFIRE25, while Lyft is providing two rides worth $25 each with the code CAFIRERELIEF25. Furthermore, Planet Fitness locations in Los Angeles are open for residents and first responders needing showers and Wi-Fi access.
If you find yourself displaced and having to pay for shelter and food, make sure to save your receipts as they may help you secure reimbursement for these expenses from your homeowners insurance.
Lastly, Mutual Aid LA has assembled a list of resources for those in need, including animal boarding and community shelters.
To apply for free or discounted Airbnb stays, follow these steps:
- Eligibility Requirements:
- You must have been physically displaced due to the recent wildfires.
- You must reside in an evacuation zone, specifically in areas like Altadena, Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Pasadena, Santa Monica, and Sylmar.
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You must have the ability to create an Airbnb account, if you don't currently have one.
- Application Process:
- Submit the Intake Form:
- Fill out the available intake form through 211 LA and provide your personal details and housing needs.
- Wait for Confirmation:
- Once your form has been submitted, wait for a confirmation message from 211 LA. Processing times may vary based on the volume of applications.
- Housing Credits:
- If your application is approved, you will receive housing credits in the Airbnb app, covering up to seven days of accommodation.
- Additional Notes:
- Placement Availability:
- Due to high volumes of individuals in need of aid, placement is not guaranteed. It is suggested to explore alternative resources in your community.
- Fee Waivers:
- All service fees associated with these stays will be waived to avoid any financial burden for those seeking help.
- Host Participation:
- Many Airbnb hosts in unaffected areas have volunteered to offer free or discounted stays to evacuees, with Airbnb.org covering any additional charges.
If you're displaced due to the wildfires in Los Angeles and eligible for free Airbnb stays, remember to fill out the intake form through 211 LA to apply. The wildfires have forced many residents from areas like Altadena, Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Pasadena, Santa Monica, and Sylmar to seek emergency temporary housing, and Airbnb.org is providing this service for free.

