City schedules FEMA ‘49% Rule’ workshop

St. Petersburg will host a virtual workshop on November 8 to educate residents about the FEMA '49% Rule,' an essential guideline for those recovering from Hurricane Milton. This regulation stipulates that if the cost of repairs to buildings in Special Flood Hazard areas reaches or surpasses 49% of their pre-storm market value, owners must rebuild according to current zoning and floodplain standards. The workshop is designed to assist residents in understanding the implications of this rule and how it affects their rebuilding efforts. City officials emphasize the importance of this session as a means to empower property owners with the knowledge needed to navigate the recovery process effectively.

Participants will receive insights on regulatory requirements and available resources to aid in their rebuilding journey. This initiative reflects the city's dedication to community support and resilience in the aftermath of natural disasters. Furthermore, the workshop aims to foster a collaborative environment where residents can ask questions and share experiences. By engaging with the community, officials hope to enhance understanding and compliance with federal rebuilding requirements.