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Post- Storm Permitting Plan

The purpose of the Post-Storm Permitting Plan is to assist residents, contractors, and businesses in navigating the permitting process following a hurricane or other declared storm event. By providing clear and accessible guidance, the plan ensures compliance with Florida CS/CS/SB 180 and promotes a safe, efficient, and expedited recovery for the Town of Orange Park.

Post-Storm Permitting Overview

Following a declared State of Emergency, the Town of Orange Park will:

Establish a post-storm permitting center at 2042 Park Avenue or alternate location.
As soon as conditions allow after a storm, maintain at least 40 hours per week of public-facing permitting services.
Provide expedited review and inspections services for storm-related repairs.

The Town will prioritize permits for:

Structural repairs to homes and businesses
Roof repairs/replacements and emergency tarping
Electrical reconnections
Plumbing repairs due to storm damage
HVAC changeouts
Temporary safety measures (e.g., debris fencing)
Flood damage repairs and elevation-related work

Do You Need a Permit?

Permits are required for structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical and roofing work. Minor repairs (such as painting or new flooring) typically do not require a permit.

Emergency Permitting Process

How to Apply:
After a storm, you can apply for a permit using one of the following methods:

Online: Apply quickly and easily using our permitting portal here.
Email: Send your application or questions directly to the department email for help.
In Person: Visit the Town Hall permitting office to apply or speak with staff.

Expedited Review

Essential repair permits are reviewed within 1-3 business days.
Same-day permits may be issued for emergency power reconnections and roofing, if all required documents are provided.

Inspections

Scheduled within 24-48 hours of request, weather permitting.
Inspectors may perform damage assessments at the time of inspection.
The Town also coordinates electrical inspections with JEA for certain types of work.

Fees & Waivers

Following a declared disaster, permit fees and inspections fees will not increase for 180 days.
The Town may reduce or waive fees for qualifying storm-related repairs to support recovery.
Impact fees will not be charged for replacement structures that are similar in size and use.

Substantial Damage & Improvement Determinations

The Town will provide Substantial Damage/Substantial Improvement letters upon request.
Letters will be issued electronically through email or mailed through the United States Postal Service.

Floodplain Requirements

Repairs in flood hazard areas must comply with FEMA regulations.
Elevation certificates, base flood elevation data, and damage assessments may be required.
Contact the Town for assistance with flood zone information and requirements.

Unsure About Your Flood Zone?

Flood zones can be identified using the interactive map provided by FEMA. Click the link here and enter an address to view the property’s flood zone designation.

FEMA is updating Clay County’s Flood Insurance Rate Maps, which determine flood risk and may affect whether some residents are required to carry flood insurance. The effective date of the maps is Spring 2027.

Communication & Updates

The Town will keep residents informed about post-storm and recovery efforts through:

The Town's website for the latest updates and information.
Town of Orange Park Facebook for news and announcements.

Additional storm updates and communications will also be available through:

Local news outlets: Stay informed through the local news and radio stations.
Clay County emergency alert system

Sign up for Emergency Alerts

ALERT Clay County is a new statewide emergency and severe weather alert system. The current CodeRED program has been discontinued by Clay County. Please sign up for the new system here. Users information is not automatically transferred to the new system.

Contact Information

Phone: 904.264.2635
Email: ecd@townop.com
Address: 2042 Park Avenue
Orange Park, FL 32073

Annual Update Requirement

The Town of Orange Park will review this post-storm permitting plan annually by May 1 and update it as needed to maintain compliance with Florida CS/CS/SB 180 and support an effective recovery process.