California Attorney General Rob Bonta has issued a consumer alert in response to the Palisades Fire in Los Angeles County. The fire, which has consumed over 1,200 acres, poses threats to structures and essential infrastructure such as power lines and water tanks. Due to the severity of the situation, evacuation orders have been implemented, affecting access routes to the Palisades Highlands community.
Attorney General Bonta emphasized that price gouging during a state of emergency is illegal under Penal Code Section 396. He stated, “As high winds and dry conditions increase the intensity of the Palisades Fire, I urge Southern Californians to listen to communication from officials and keep safe. California’s price gouging law protects people impacted by an emergency from illegal price gouging on housing, gas, food, and other essential supplies.”
Bonta encouraged residents who suspect price gouging to report it either online at oag.ca.gov/report or through local authorities. Under California law, prices cannot exceed by more than 10% what was charged before an emergency declaration for goods already being sold. For new items introduced post-emergency declaration, prices should not surpass the seller's cost by more than 50%. This regulation applies to various essentials including food, medical supplies, gasoline, housing services among others.
Violations can lead to severe penalties including criminal prosecution with potential imprisonment up to one year or fines reaching $10,000. Civil actions may also be pursued with penalties up to $2,500 per violation along with possible injunctive relief and mandatory restitution.
The Attorney General's office along with local district attorneys are responsible for enforcing these regulations.