Destin gives homeowners 60 days to complete certain storm damage repairs without obtaining city permits
Destin, Florida – Repairing a damaged fence or dock after a storm can be an expensive and time-consuming process. For property owners in Destin, however, a temporary exemption from city building permit requirements could make certain repairs easier to complete without additional paperwork.
The City of Destin has announced a 60-day exemption for qualifying storm damage repairs involving fences and docks. The measure takes effect immediately, allowing property owners to carry out specific repairs without obtaining a building permit, provided they meet the conditions established by the city’s Building Division.
The exemption is intended for existing structures that have sustained storm damage. It does not apply to every type of construction or repair project, and property owners must follow several requirements before beginning work.
According to the City of Destin Building Division, a damaged fence or dock qualifies for permit-free repairs only if the original structure was constructed under a valid building permit.
The work must also be limited to replacing damaged boards with new boards in the same location. This means property owners can restore the affected portions of their fences or docks, but they cannot use the exemption to change the structures’ original placement or increase their size.
Relocating a fence, extending a dock, or making other changes beyond the permitted board-for-board replacement falls outside the exemption. Such projects may still require approval through the city’s regular building permit process.
Another important detail involves homeowners associations.
City officials have reminded residents that the temporary exemption does not eliminate requirements established by their homeowners associations, commonly known as HOAs. Property owners who belong to an HOA must continue following all applicable community rules, even when their planned repairs do not require a city building permit.
This distinction is particularly important for residents preparing to begin work. A project that qualifies under the city’s temporary exemption may still be subject to separate HOA requirements.
The city has also made clear that repairs outside the listed conditions may require a building permit. Residents who are uncertain whether their work qualifies are encouraged to contact the Building Division before proceeding.
Questions about storm-damaged fences, docks, and applicable permit requirements can be directed to the City of Destin Building Division at (850) 654-1119.
For now, the 60-day exemption provides a temporary option for property owners seeking to restore qualifying storm-damaged structures while maintaining the original location and dimensions of their fences and docks.
