Post-Storm Repairs: Permit Requirements

This guide provides essential information on permitting requirements and procedures for repairing or rebuilding after a hurricane or tropical storm.

Repairs That Do Not Require a Permit:

  • Temporary tarping of roofs
  • Debris and tree removal
  • Minor cosmetic repairs (paint, flooring, etc.)
  • Fence panel reattachment (no posts)
  • Replacing glass in existing approved frames (if no frame damage)

Repairs That Require a Permit:

(Fees waived and expedited review)

  • Roof replacements or substantial roof repairs
  • Structural repairs (walls, trusses, balconies)
  • Electrical service restoration/replacement
  • HVAC equipment replacement
  • Window replacement
  • Door replacement
  • Screen enclosure replacement
  • Fence replacement
  • Shed replacement
  • Water heater replacement
  • Firewalls
  • Storm demolition

All other repairs shall meet the requirements of the Florida Building Code. Standard fees apply. For additional information, call the Martin County Building Department at (772) 288-5916.

Post-Storm Permit Application Process

How to apply

  • Via Online Permit System
  • In person at the Martin County Building Department lobby, 900 SE Ruhnke Street, Stuart

Temporary field office permitting stations (if activated)

Martin County Fire Department Station 33
7555 SE Federal Hwy 
Hobe Sound, FL 33455

Martin County Intergovernmental Center
16550 SW Warfield Blvd
Indiantown, FL 34956

Required Documents:

Permitting Checklists

Properties located in a Special Flood Hazard Area 

Additional permit requirements may apply for properties located in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA). To determine your home's flood zone, access Martin County's FEMA Flood Zones Map.

Substantial Improvements or Substantial Damage: 

If a structure located in a SFHA is not built to the current design flood elevation and is "substantially damaged" or "substantially improved," it must be brought into compliance with the Martin County Floodplain Management Ordinance and the Florida Building Code.

Homeowners can receive, review, and access Substantial Improvement and Substantial Damage Letters online through the Online Permit System (ACA) or via email by submitting a Request for Service to the Public Works Department. 

For additional information, visit Martin County’s Flood Zone and Flood Protection web page or call the Martin County Public Works Department at (772) 288-5466.

Local Code References:

Annual Update and Web Publication

This guide will be published annually by May 1 on the Martin County Building Department website and the Martin County Public Works Department website.