Bluffton Prioritizing Permits for Tropical Storm Debby Recovery

In an effort to expedite the recovery process from Tropical Storm Debby, the Town of Bluffton has declared that it will be prioritizing permits needed for storm damage repairs, at no cost to its residents.

Staff Prepared to Assist Residents in Aftermath of Debby

Town staff, led by Chief Building Official Rob Currall, is fully equipped and ready to assist homeowners who required emergency permits to either document damages or carry out crucial repairs in the wake of damage caused by Tropical storm Debby on August 5.

Mr. Currall emphasized the necessity to document the damages, which would bolster future insurance claims in case of repeated weather incidents inflicting similar damages, much comparable to car insurance claims.

Guidance for Obtaining Emergency Permits

For those uncertain about the process, the town has laid out a few basic guidelines for emergency permitting. To begin with, no permit is required for debris removal or to initialize minor repairs aimed at preventing further property damage or injuries.

A permit is also not necessary for water leak repairs that don’t involve structural, electrical or mechanical systems. Similarly, replacing storm-damaged items with “like for like” does not require a permit.

No Charge for Emergency Permits

Making things simpler for the residents, neither is there any fee attached to these emergency permits, nor are there any specific requirements for homeowners in certain areas. If you reside adjacent to a Highway Corridor, including Highways 46, 170, 278, or May River Road or in the Bluffton Historic District, pre-disaster photographs need to be provided when applying for a permit. Special laws, rules, regulations, and codes apply to the repairs undertaken in the Historic District.

Structural Damage and Contact Information

In the event of structural damage to your property, photographs of such damages need to be presented. Every single case will be evaluated individually.

To seek further information on proceeding with permits applications or repairs, residents can reach out to the different bodies to address their needs:

• Town of Bluffton Customer Service Center: For general permits, applications, and questions, call 843-706-4522.
• Town of Bluffton Business License: For any queries or issues related to business licenses, email at businesslicense@townofbluffton.com or call 843-706-4526.

By coming to the aid of its residents in such a swift and decisive manner, the Town of Bluffton sets a high standard in crisis response, which hopefully encourages efficient recovery from such events nationwide.