Permits Required Before Rebuilding Damaged Structures 

Release Date: May 19, 2003
Release Number: 1465-13

» More Information on Oklahoma Severe Storms and Tornadoes

» En Español

Oklahoma City, OK -- Homeowners, landlords and business owners are urged to check with local governments regarding permits before repairing or rebuilding a disaster-damaged structure. There are requirements on how and where structures may be renovated.

"Many regulations are in place to lessen or to remove the potential for future disaster damages," said Federal Emergency Management Agency Deputy Federal Coordinating Officer for Mitigation, Greg Solovey. Information on these requirements is available from local city and county permitting offices.

If a resident is rebuilding on a special flood-hazard area, additional guidelines must be followed to make sure the rebuilt structure is brought into compliance with current codes. "There are several approaches to mitigating a damaged structure in a special flood-hazard area," said Oklahoma Department of Civil Emergency Management Mitigation Officer, Connie Dill. "These include flood-proofing measures, elevation, relocation or acquisition to prevent future losses."

All rebuilders are urged to visit their local permitting offices and secure all necessary permits before they begin the task at hand. Prior planning and solid information will result in a more disaster-resistant structure.

Last Modified: Tuesday, 03-Jun-2003 11:14:07