AMITE - Officials in Tangipahoa say they’re waving permit fees for residents who are making repairs and rebuilding after last month’s flooding.

Building permits are required for all structural improvements in Tangipahoa, but local leaders say they will waves those fees as people begin to rebuild.

Permits are issued for a variety of construction projects, including new buildings, additions, renovations and residential improvements like decks, garages, fences, shed, electrical work, plumbing upgrades and HVAC systems.

“This is just one way that Parish Government is helping our residents recover from this storm,” Tangiaphoa Parish President Robby Miller said.

Permit applications must be filed in person, but the parish website offers a lot of information that can help residents learn the requirements for filing for a permit. Due to flood damage at the parish’s Amite Health Unit, permits are currently available in Hammond at the Mike Clausen Environmental Services Building on West Club Deluxe Road.

Residents are encouraged not to discount the value of going through the permit process.

“Your home is an investment. If your construction project does not comply with our community’s building codes, the value of your investment could be reduced. Insurance companies also have specific requirements about improvements made to your home, and that’s important when you need to file a claim. In the event you choose to sell your home, those same permits are good documents to have in recording the history of your property. So, even though you won’t be charged to file these permits, we encourage residents to take advantage of the permit process,” said Miller.