Permits Required For Rebuilding Storm-Damaged Structures
Release Date: September 26, 2004
Release Number: 1558-011
» More Information on West Virginia Severe Storms, Flooding and Landslides
CHARLESTON, W. Va. -- Homeowners, landlords and business owners are urged to check with local and county governments regarding permits before repairing or rebuilding a structure damaged by Hurricane Ivan. There can be strict local requirements on how and where structures may be renovated.
“Specific requirements are in place to assure there is a lessening or even a removal of potential for damage in future disastrous storms,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Lou Botta of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Local governments encourage those affected by storms to use proven mitigation methods to prevent repeated flooding in the future.
“There are many approaches to mitigating storm-damaged structures, including elevation or relocation of the property,” said Stephen Kappa, state coordinating officer of the West Virginia Office of Emergency Services.
“We urge contractors and property owners to visit their local permitting offices and obtain the necessary permits before beginning the rebuilding process,” Kappa added. “Prior planning and good information will produce a structure that will withstand the next major disaster.”
Local and county governments use permits to ensure that rebuilding meets the local floodplain ordinances. Information on requirements is available from local permitting offices.
On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Monday, 27-Sep-2004 10:37:42