Disaster Permits

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If you were affected by the severe storms and flooding that occurred from June 11-14, 2024, you may be eligible for financial assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Visit the SBA Disaster Assistance site or view the SBA Disaster Loan Fact Sheet - Disaster FL-20007 for more information.

On April 12, 2023, the City of Fort Lauderdale was affected by a severe weather event that can be characterized as occurring once every 1,000 years. The event placed almost 26 inches of rainfall largely on Fort Lauderdale and immediate surrounding areas. The aftermath left many residential and commercial properties within our City with significant damage from flooding or water intrusion.

The City conducted a damage assessment in the aftermath of the flood and found approximately 700 structures received major damage and 400 received minor damage.

To assist property owners, the City of Fort Lauderdale Commission approved a resolution which will temporarily waive permitting fees for flood related repairs. To qualify for the program, please follow the instructions below:

Complete the Flood Building Permit Fee Waiver Form to attach to your submission.
Apply for a permit online at LauderBuild. Guidance for using LauderBuild to submit an online permit can be found on the LauderBuild Plan Room (LPR) page.
- Don't forget to check the box designated for Flash Flood 2023 permits in LauderBuild.
Attach the form along with your plans and backup documentation when prompted to via email.

For more information about this program, please call the DSD Call Center at 954-828-6520.

FAQs

Which fees are eligible for relief?

All City permitting fees are eligible. County and State fees are not.
Can I apply for a disaster permit online?

Yes you can. Online permit applications are accepted using LauderBuild. The online permitting process is the same with the exception of the

check box designated for Flash Flood 2023 permits. Please check yes.

You can also apply in person at 700 NW 19th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311.
Where can I find the additional forms I may need for my disaster related building permit?

Forms and helpful information related to the flood event can be found on the Flood page under the heading Flash Flood 2023 Event Info.
What if I already applied for a permit for disaster related repairs; Can I get a refund?

Yes, you can apply for a refund for the fees you paid for disaster related repair permits. To apply for a refund, please complete the Flood Building Permit Fee Waiver request form and email it to disasterpermits@fortlauderdale.gov.
How do I qualify for the disaster permitting relief program?
The following requirements must be met:
1. The Governor must declare a state of emergency.
2. City Commission must pass a resolution for a permitting fee waiver.
3. The repairs must be related to damage which occurred during a natural disaster.
4. The proper form must be completed and attached to the permit application.
5. The Building Official or designee must approve the request.
How long will approval take?

We understand the urgency so we are expediting these permits via the Permit Solutions Team. Approval should take 1 to 2 business days under normal conditions.
Which repairs are eligible for this program?
1. Windows, doors, and garage door replacements
2. Roofing repairs or replacement (including the repair of trusses or sheathing)
3. Interior walls and ceilings
4. Kitchen cabinetry
5. Bathroom cabinetry
6. Minor electrical, plumbing, or mechanical/air conditioning permits (A/C unit replacement is subject to the latest SEER 2 requirements from the Department of Energy)
7. Wall and attic insulation
8. Fences

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City of Fort Lauderdale, FL

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Disaster Permits

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