The LA County Fire Department starts its free LA County sandbag events on Saturday, Nov. 7, and runs them through Nov. 28, 2026. Each resident can take up to 25 pre-filled sandbags at one of 11 county locations, as of Nov. 5.
The department announced the events on Nov. 3 and updated the notice on Nov. 4. They aim to get homes ready before a wet winter that forecasters link to El Niño.
What the sandbag events offer
The limit is 25 bags per resident. The bags arrive already filled, so you do not need a shovel or sand. The county says sandbags can steer water, mud and debris away from a property.
The department published the 11 locations and the event times in a schedule image. The text of the announcement does not list them. Check the county announcement for the schedule before you go, because sites may differ by date.
Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone said in the release that preparation “begins before emergencies occur.” He added that small steps can protect families.
How to use sandbags well
Sandbags work best when you place them with a plan. The department posts a Sandbag Safety Tips flyer for 2026 on fire.lacounty.gov. It explains where to stack bags, so water goes around a building instead of into it.
Homes near recent burn scars face a higher risk of mud and debris flows. We covered that risk in our look at LA burn scar flooding and the El Niño winter. Coastal areas have their own issue, which we explained in the story on record coastal flooding and king tides.
Other steps the county suggests
The fire department also lists several simple tasks. First, clean gutters, downspouts and storm drains. Then check the roof for leaks. Also keep supplies on hand, including supplies for pets.
- Sign up for emergency alerts at ready.lacounty.gov.
- Service your wipers, brakes and tires before heavy rain.
- Consider flood insurance early if you live in a higher-risk area.
Flood insurance policies usually carry a waiting period, so waiting for the first storm is too late. Storm tips and updates sit at ready.lacounty.gov/rain.
What to expect next
The events end Nov. 28, so there are about three weeks to pick up bags. Supplies may run out at a site, however, so go early if you can. For more local guidance, see our Los Angeles and California guides. The county media line is (323) 881-2413, and the general information line is (213) 974-1234.