Longboat ordinance eliminates permit requirement for drywall repair

The Longboat Key Town Commission approved an emergency ordinance to further streamline residents’ recovery after hurricanes Helene and Milton. 

The ordinance, which eliminates the requirement to obtain a permit for drywall restoration and repair in single-family structures, was approved by the commission at its Dec. 2 meeting. 

Section 150.30 of the town code previously required a building permit for drywall repair exceeding 48 square feet in single-family homes. 

“This requirement was likely intended for commercial and multifamily structures, where rated assemblies continue to be required. Sheetrock repair/replacement, in single-family structures, however, is not required to be performed by a licensed contractor, nor is a building permit required by the Florida Building Code,” a release from the town stated.

This emergency ordinance removes the need for a permit for simple drywall work in single-family structures. 

Drywall and sheetrock repairs in single-family structures that involve work such as electrical and plumbing work as part of a larger project will still require a permit. 

The town also furthered the extended construction hours for storm-related construction, which is allowed to take place from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day, including Christmas holidays, through Dec. 31. 

“The town recognizes that many property owners are continuing to address storm-related property damage and are performing water intrusion restoration and repair, and, where possible, the town continues to seek ways to streamline the permitting process and provide relief to property owners while maintaining safety and compliance with applicable building and life safety codes,” the release stated. 

For more information or questions, contact the Planning, Zoning and Building Department at 941-316-1966.