Before considering new construction and repairs on property located in flood-hazard areas, Hurricane Harvey survivors are urged to consult local building officials to obtain floodplain development permits.Obtaining building permits is especially important for those with homes or businesses located within the 100-year floodplain. Floodplain development permits cannot be waived, and local governments cannot reduce or ignore the floodplain requirement. Permits are required for work on removing or replacing the roof, walls, siding, wallboard, plaster, insulation, paneling, cabinets, flooring, electrical system, plumbing, heating or air conditioning. Repair projects must meet community building...

DENTON, Texas – Revised Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate maps are ready for review by residents and business owners in the cities of Broussard, Youngsville, and unincorporated areas of Lafayette Parish. The maps were developed by a team of local, state and federal government officials,and they will help residents decide whether they need to buy flood insurance. Additionally, the flood maps allow residents and community leaders to make informed decisions about future building and development.The public has an opportunity to submit comments and appeals on the new rate maps until December 12, 2017....

AUSTIN, Texas – Two State of Texas/FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers will open Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2017, in Nueces County in the city of Corpus Christi and in Orange County in the city of Vidor.Disaster recovery centers offer in-person support to individuals and businesses in counties included in the Texas federal disaster declaration for Hurricane Harvey and the subsequent floods.Recovery specialists from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the State and other agencies will be at the centers to talk about assistance and to help...

AUSTIN, Texas – Two State of Texas/FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers will open Monday, Oct. 2, 2017, in Harris County in the city of Houston and in DeWitt County in the city of Cuero.Disaster recovery centers offer in-person support to individuals and businesses in counties included in the Texas federal disaster declaration for Hurricane Harvey and the subsequent floods.Recovery specialists from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the State and other agencies will be at the center to talk about assistance and to help anyone...

AUSTIN, Texas – A State of Texas/FEMA Disaster Recovery Center opened Sunday, Oct. 1, 2017, in Brazoria County in the city of Pearland. Disaster recovery centers offer in-person support to individuals and businesses in counties included in the Texas federal disaster declaration for Hurricane Harvey and the subsequent floods. Recovery specialists from the Federal EmergencyManagement Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the State and other agencies will be at the center to talk about assistance and to help anyone who needs guidance in filing an application. The new...