Anna Maria Demands Building Permits from Property Owners Seeking Hurricane Tax Relief
ANNA MARIA – The City of Anna Maria has issued letters to 51 property owners warning them to obtain proper building permits by August 15 or risk penalties, following claims for hurricane-related property tax relief without documented repair approvals.
The letters were sent after the city was alerted by the Manatee County Property Appraiser’s Office that specific properties were deemed uninhabitable for at least 30 days following Hurricanes Helene or Milton. While that status may make them eligible for partial tax refunds under Florida Statute 197.319, city records indicate no corresponding permits had been filed for hurricane-related repairs.
Of the 51 letters sent, 36 involve properties owned by individuals, couples, or trusts, and 15 involve corporate or LLC-owned properties.
State law defines an uninhabitable residence as one rendered unusable due to structural damage or conditions caused by a catastrophic event. To qualify for tax relief, property owners must show that the damage meets that threshold, typically requiring proof of repairs, which, in Anna Maria, must be supported by approved building permits.
The city’s letter outlines two pathways for compliance. If repairs were made or are underway without permits, property owners must retroactively apply for the appropriate permits, paying all associated fees and penalties. If no qualifying work has been done, the city is requesting a formal statement via email indicating whether repairs are planned or not.
City ordinances also stipulate that non-conforming properties must complete all required repairs and inspections within one year of the event that caused the damage. Failure to meet the deadline or to request a waiver may result in the city requiring the structure to be brought into full code compliance.
The city is urging all property owners affected by the issue to take action before the August 15 deadline. Those unsure about their compliance status can contact the building department for further guidance.