Planning Guidelines for Property Repairs After Hurricane Imelda

The Department of Planning recognises the urgency of repairing storm damage following Hurricane Imelda and is committed to assisting property owners through the process. Technical officers are available to provide guidance and support.

Repairs to Buildings

• Repairs using the same materials and design (e.g., windows, doors, or roof slate) do not require planning permission or a building permit if the damage is limited to non-structural issues. Owners may proceed immediately with these repairs.
• Where structural damage has occurred, a building permit is required before work can begin. These applications will be prioritised and processed as quickly as possible. In cases of dangerous structural damage, emergency work may proceed without a permit provided the Department is notified, and a permit application is submitted promptly thereafter.
• Under Class IV of the Development and Planning (General Development) Order 1999, a Permitted Development Permit may be used for storm or fire damage if no more than 60% of a building/structure has been destroyed and the replacement is no larger than the original building/structure.

Repairs to Listed Buildings and Historic Protection Areas

• For non-structural repairs using identical materials and designs (e.g., doors, windows, or roof slate), no permit is required.
• All structural repairs require a building permit, but these applications will be expedited.

• The materials must replicate the style and detailing of the original structure.

• Please review Guidance Note 203 for more information. 

Repairs to Seawalls and Docks

• Replacements ordinarily require only a building permit to ensure compliance with the Bermuda Building Code 1998.
• As seawalls and docks can affect the natural foreshore, planning permission may also be required in some cases. Property owners are encouraged to consult the Department before beginning repairs.

Need Help or More Information?

• Building permit information: Miglena Yaneva at 246-7913 or myaneva@gov.bm
• Development applications: Paul McDonald at 444-0917 or pamcdonald@gov.bm
• General assistance: Call 297-7756 or visit the Department of Planning’s website.
• General Development Order / Permitted Development Permit Guidance Notes

Building Control Contact List

The Department of Planning thanks the public for their cooperation and assures property owners that all storm-related applications will be given priority treatment. Please review the attached Planning Guidelines for Hurricane Repairs document for more details.