The City of Fremont is reminding residents that permits are necessary before repairing or rebuilding any damaged structures located within the special flood hazard area.
This requirement is part of the city’s participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which enables residents to access essential resources such as flood insurance, disaster assistance, and federal and state grant opportunities.
Floodplain management ordinances dictate that any construction or development activity in designated floodplain areas must secure a permit. This includes the repair or reconstruction of structures that have sustained damage due to flooding or other disasters.
While repairs to damaged buildings are allowed, those deemed substantially damaged, where repair costs exceed 50% of the structure’s pre-disaster market value, must also comply with specific regulations. For these structures, repairs must involve upgrading to meet local floodplain requirements, which may include elevating or flood proofing the building to minimize future flood risks.
It is crucial for property owners to calculate the total cost of repairs based on bringing their buildings back to a “pre-damaged” condition. This includes accounting for structural and finish materials, labor costs, and any additional expenses dictated by local building codes, even if some materials or labor are donated.
Residents with hail-damaged structures are encouraged to reach out to the City of Fremont Building and Inspections Department at 402-727-2621 for guidance on obtaining the necessary repair and reconstruction permits.
