Frequently Asked Questions
Last updated: May 28, 2026, 1:00 p.m.
General Information
Is it safe for residents to return home?
Yes, it is safe to return home and move about in the previous evacuation area. As of May 26, all evacuation orders related to the hazardous materials incident have been lifted. Reentry decisions are made by a team of public safety officials based on conditions in the affected area. Orange County health officials have confirmed that there are no air quality or other health concerns in the area.
Should residents clean their homes or businesses in a specific way after returning?
There is no need to take any action inside or outside of a home or business. Public safety and health agencies have confirmed that there was no release of chemicals that would warrant specific cleaning or safety precautions.
What if I still need transportation, accessibility assistance or other urgent support?
Residents who need accessibility assistance, transportation assistance or other urgent support should call the Garden Grove Emergency Hotline during regular business hours (M-F, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) at (714) 741-5444.
Have City services resumed in and around the evacuation area?
Yes. As of May 27, all City services in and around the evacuation area have resumed. This includes services such as water service, trash collection, utilities, mail delivery and street sweeping. Residents and businesses should also contact their utility providers directly if they are experiencing any individual issues with gas, electricity or other service connections.
Who should I contact for issues with trash collection or utility service?
Residents and businesses should report service-specific issues directly to the appropriate service provider or City department.
- For water billing or account questions, contact Garden Grove Water Billing at (714) 741-5078.
- For water service, repairs or water quality questions, contact Garden Grove Water Services at (714) 741-5395.
- For trash and recycling questions, contact Republic Services at (714) 238-3300 or (714) 238-2444.
For urgent support needs, residents may also call the Garden Grove Emergency Hotline at (714) 741-5444 during regular business hours.
Is City Hall open for regular business?
Yes. City Hall is open, and City employees continue to serve the community. Residents and businesses may continue contacting City departments for regular City services, in addition to using the emergency hotline for incident-related questions.
Business
What resources are available for businesses affected by the incident?
The City's website is being updated with the latest business support resources for businesses affected by the hazardous materials incident. These resources may include information from the County of Orange, the Small Business Administration, the Small Business Development Center and other partner agencies. Businesses affected by the incident are encouraged to review the resources posted on the City's website and complete the SBA Assistance Worksheet if applicable.
In addition, the Small Business Development Center is hosting a free webinar for businesses impacted by the chemical incident on Friday, May 29, 2026, at 9 a.m. The webinar will be offered in English, Spanish, Vietnamese and Korean, and will include information about available federal, state, county and local resources, business support services and guidance for impacted businesses.
Will the City provide documentation showing that my home or business was in the evacuation area?
Yes. The City will post an official letter on its website that residents and businesses may use to help verify that they were located within an evacuation area during the hazardous materials incident. The letter is intended to help residents and businesses document the evacuation for purposes such as insurance, employment, school, business interruption discussions or other personal recordkeeping needs. The City cannot guarantee how the letter will be used or accepted by third parties.
Can the City confirm whether my specific address was in the evacuation zone?
The City is working to provide information that helps residents and businesses verify whether they were located within the evacuation area. Residents and businesses should check the City's website for the official evacuation verification letter and any related maps or instructions.
For additional questions, contact the Garden Grove Emergency Hotline during business hours at (714) 741-5444.
How will residents or businesses be reimbursed for evacuation-related costs?
Residents are encouraged to contact their homeowners or renters insurance companies. Businesses should contact their insurance providers regarding potential claims or coverage.