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NEW ORLEANS - During today's Regular Council meeting, the Council passed Ordinance 33,459, which waives certain fees relating to building permits and demolition permits necessary to repair or rebuild structures damaged by Hurricane Ida and occupied on August 29, 2021, except where renovation or new construction was in progress. This allows residents to start the rebuilding process as expeditiously as possible.
Permits must be applied for, approved, and issued, but this ordinance allows work to begin more quickly and incentivizes residents to make repairs the right way – with approval. The ordinance will not affect review by New Orleans Safety and Permits.
“In the wake of the devastating effects of Hurricane Ida, this ordinance will remove the fees for people to repair their homes,” said District “B” Councilmember Jay H. Banks. “It is our duty to take the pressure off of our citizens who are trying to get back on their feet.”
The Council has passed similar ordinances following other storms to ensure repairs across the city are completed in a timely manner. After Hurricane Katrina, lots of work was done with no approval, resulting in long-standing issues. This ordinance will help prevent unapproved work while returning the city to its pre-storm state.
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