Kendal's Korner

For this installment of Kendal’s Korner, I would like to talk about building permits.  However, before I begin, I would like to take this opportunity to introduce the newest member of our team, Caydie Farmer. Caydie is our new Building / STR Clerk. She brings municipal experience in building permitting and planning and zoning, and we look forward to her leadership and service to our community.  Please welcome her to JB the next time you are in city hall.

Now let’s talk about building permits.  You may ask “Why do I even need a permit?”  Your permit allows our Building Official/Inspector to ensure the safety of the work and its compliance with building, construction, and zoning codes, for both the property owner’s personal safety and public safety, along with broader considerations, such as protecting property values.

The most common issue we see is people building without a permit.  Caydie issued stop work orders on three separate projects today alone because they were not permitted. 

The most common excuse we hear is “I didn’t know I needed a permit.” You know not, because you ask not. The best way to find out if you need a permit is to call the building department. Discuss your plans with them before beginning construction to determine whether you need a permit. Please note that if you do begin work without a permit, the price for the permit doubles as a penalty.

You can also visit the city website for common, but not all inclusive, examples of work that require a permit. https://www.jamaicabeachtx.gov/building-department

“I need a permit. Now what?” I am not going to lie, the permitting process can be a little confusing as you must deal with two separate entities: the homeowner’s association, Jamaica Beach Improvement Committee (JBIC) and the City. I could spend a lot of time trying to explain the “why’s” behind the process, but my goal today is to simplify things.

So here is what you really need to know.

Step 1 - Contact JBIC (409) 737-9850 jbichoa@yahoo.com Tell them you need a BUILDING application.

Step 2 – Complete & return that application to JBIC. They will approve / deny it. You CANNOT move  
                forward in the permitting process if JBIC denies your application.

Step 3 – Complete a city PERMIT application (providing written proof of JBIC approval) & pay the 
                accompanying fee. Applications are available at city hall or online.  
               https://www.jamaicabeachtx.gov/building-department/pages/building-forms-documents

Step 4 – The application will be reviewed and approved/denied.

Those are the basics of permitting. I hope it was insightful. Please remember, if you are unsure, just ask.  Help us help you and keep our community safe.

Thank you.

Kendal Francis
City Administrator