Seek permits before repairs

DAYTON–As area property owners begin the daunting task of clean up and repair following the recent flood event, residents are reminded to obtain local permits prior to repairing or rebuilding flood-damaged structures. These permits are required to help ensure the safety and well-being of our citizens.

Local Building and Planning staff has recommended to City Councils and County Commissioners that all building permit fees associated with flood damage rehabilitation be waived and rehabilitation permits will be prioritized above all else to ensure expedient processing. Staff is aware of the stress this situation has placed on our citizens and will work to make compliance as simple as possible.

These permits are required as part of local government participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Participation in this program provides eligibility for flood insurance, flood disaster assistance, state and federal grants and loans, and buyout funds for frequently flooded areas. Compliance with the requirements of this program ensures ongoing eligibility to participate.

Local and federal floodplain management ordinances require that permits be obtained for any construction or development activity in a floodplain area, including the repair or reconstruction of structures damaged by a disaster.

Special conditions apply to substantially damaged buildings - those in which the total cost of repairs is 50 percent or more of the structure’s pre-disaster market value. If a building is found to be substantially damaged, regulations require that repairs not begin until compliance with the local floodplain ordinance is demonstrated. In some cases, that may require repairs that include elevating or flood proofing the structure to reduce the potential for future flood damage and loss.

More information on substantial damage is available at Dayton City Hall, Columbia County Planning & Building and online through FEMA.gov. If a building is determined to be substantially damaged, flood insurance may also provide up to $30,000 to protect the structure from future flooding through a claims process known as ICC (Increased Cost of Compliance).

State and federal assistance may be available to property owners to reduce the chances of future flood damage. Mitigation assistance may cover costs of relocation, or for elevating or purchasing flood damaged structures.