Manatee County Hosts "Before You Rebuild" Outreach for Storm-Affected Residents
Manatee County, FL – Manatee County officials will hold a Before You Rebuild outreach event tomorrow, November 20, from 10 a.m. to noon at New Hope Baptist Church, located at 9422 Old Tampa Road. This session aims to guide residents in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA) impacted by recent hurricanes through critical requirements for repairing or rebuilding their homes.
The event will focus on key regulations, including the "50% rule," a National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) mandate. This rule prevents substantial improvements to structures that exceed 50% of their market value unless brought into compliance with current floodplain regulations, the Florida Building Code, and NFIP standards. These updates may require measures such as elevating structures or using flood-resistant materials.
Residents are urged to ensure contractors are licensed and well-versed in these requirements. Beginning repairs without the necessary authorization, permits, or oversight could lead to complications, delays, or additional expenses.
Ahead of the event, citizens are encouraged to visit mymanatee.org/B4Urebuild to review the latest floodplain regulations. Those seeking additional recovery resources may also visit the FEMA Disaster Recovery Center at Palmetto Library, 923 6th Street West. The center will operate today from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. and starting tomorrow, November 20, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
For more details, residents can explore the official Facebook event page at facebook.com/events/1592795121448150.