Gov. Scott Directs DBPR to Make it Easier for Floridians to Rebuild Following Hurricane Irma

Governor Rick Scott directed Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s (DBPR) Secretary Jonathan Zachem to suspend certain regulations and fees that may prevent, hinder or delay necessary response and recovery efforts from Hurricane Irma. This order applies to all counties identified in the Major Disaster Declaration and will help Floridians more quickly repair and rebuild their homes and businesses. To view the Emergency Order, click HERE.
Governor Scott said, “Right now, families across the state are beginning the challenging process of repairing and rebuilding their homes and businesses after the impact of this massive storm. It is incredibly important that we do all we can to make it easier for these families to quickly and safely recover, which is why I have directed DBPR to take immediate action to suspend certain regulations that would hinder or delay recovery efforts. We will continue to work closely with our communities across the state to make sure they have all they need to help Florida fully rebuild and recover from Hurricane Irma.”
Secretary Jonathan Zachem said, “Many Floridians have been adversely impacted by Hurricane Irma. Under Governor Scott’s leadership, the Department is working to suspend burdensome regulations and provide the resources needed during this difficult time to help quickly repair and rebuild.”
The Emergency Order allows licensed general, building, and residential contractors to perform roofing repair and installation and also permits local governments to authorize local and specialty contracting licenses for individuals and businesses that are already licensed in jurisdictions throughout Florida so they can perform roofing repair and installation in impacted areas. This will allow areas of the state most affected by Hurricane Irma to be flexible and assist Floridians with immediate restoration during this difficult time. Florida’s high building standards and safety requirements will not be affected. Lastly, the order waives all Department fees for occupational or professional businesses who must relocate or reopen because of damage caused by Irma and its effects.
The Emergency Order will correspond with the effective dates of Governor Scott’s Executive Order 17-235 and any extensions thereof.