October 8, 2024 10:22 AM

Yancey County Inspection Updates: Storm Damage Assessments and Permit Changes

-Yancey County inspectors will be out in the communities doing initial damage assessments to residences and commercial buildings. Signage will be placed on structures advising if they are safe to enter or occupy based on our initial inspection. This does not necessarily mean a structure is being condemned, only our evaluation of its safety. We cannot keep people out of their homes, but it is our responsibility to advise them of unsafe conditions. The signage will also help FEMA and other relief organizations to quickly identify these structures in the coming weeks.

-Electrical permits are still required for repairs done to services before they are reconnected. We have spoken with FBEMC and they are advising customers of this if their service is too damaged to activate as they are making repairs. We have copies of permit applications at their office as well as ours. Any wiring that was wet will need to be replaced prior to service being reconnected. We are waiving fees (if ok with the commissioners) for Helene related damages, including permits for repairing damaged homes where applicable.

-Existing permitted projects may continue as conditions allow, with inspections being called for as needed. Accessibility to these jobsites may determine whether we can do onsite inspections or not.

-We recommend a moratorium on all new construction permits until at least November 4th, 2024 (this may be modified as recovery progresses)

-We recommend a moratorium on all Floodplain permits until further notice. Due to the extent of damages, most Floodplain areas are in no condition for any development in the foreseeable future.

- Jon England, Building Inspections Director