City of Dunedin's Resiliency and Sustainability Rebate Program
Published on October 30, 2024
Written by: Nicole Delfino, Strategy & Sustainability Manager & George Kinney, Director of Community Development
The City Commission recently approved Resolution 2024-31, waiving permit fees for homes and/or properties damaged by the Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The waiver is good through April 30, 2025 and would apply to any fees related to tree removal, fence repair, roof repair, and any other repair for a damaged building component. This waiver also includes any fees related to demolition. More information or questions, please contact the Building Department at: permits@dunedinfl.net
And for residents not impacted by the recent hurricanes, the City of Dunedin is committed to building a resilient and sustainable future by offering homeowners and businesses the opportunity to protect their properties while contributing to the community's overall safety. The Dunedin Resiliency and Sustainability Rebate Program was authorized by the City Commission to provide Dunedin residents and business owners an incentive for upgrading their homes or businesses to withstand natural disasters, improve energy efficiency, and adopt environmentally friendly practices. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting opportunity.
What is the Resiliency and Sustainability Rebate Program?
The City of Dunedin has developed the Resiliency and Sustainability Rebate Program to help residents and business owners invest in resiliency improvements. The program contains funding for the rebate of eligible building permit fees related to specific resiliency activities and projects. Additional funding is also available to support improvements and/or projects that do not require a permit. Funding is available on a first-come, first-serve basis and the City reserves the right to prioritize requests for vulnerable geographic areas/neighborhoods.
Whether you want to protect your home from flooding or install energy-efficient systems, this program offers a rebate of up to $2,500 per project for approved resiliency efforts. Each property address is limited to not more than two (2) rebate projects over a three (3)-year period to assure equitable opportunity. Applications will not be considered if there are open City code violations or delinquent utility accounts on an address.Eligible projects include retrofitting homes to meet new flood protection standards, upgrading windows and doors for hurricane resistance, and even landscaping efforts that improve storm resilience. The City prioritizes projects that increase resilience in areas vulnerable to natural disasters like hurricanes and flooding.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the key projects that qualify for the rebate.
Eligible Mitigation and Resiliency Efforts
- Home Elevation and Dry Floodproofing
For homes located in flood-prone areas, elevating your house above the base flood elevation (BFE) is an excellent way to protect against flooding. Techniques include lifting the structure onto a higher foundation or adding an additional story. Dry floodproofing, often used in non-residential structures, is another method to create a barrier and seal the structure to prevent water from entering.
- Hurricane Impact Windows and Roof Tie-Downs
Replacing your windows with hurricane impact windows ensures your home can withstand high winds and flying debris during storms. Additionally, reinforcing your roof with hurricane tie-down straps creates a stronger connection between the roof and the walls, preventing roof uplift during storms.
- Opening Protection
Ensure all openings such as doors, windows, and garage doors are protected with hurricane-resistant materials. Meeting the most recent Florida Building Code requirements may also provide insurance discounts.
- Elevating and Floodproofing Electrical Systems
Critical systems like HVAC, battery storage, and electrical panels should be elevated above flood levels or floodproofed. Doing so protects essential infrastructure from flood damage and ensures your home or business can recover faster after a disaster.
- Storm-Resilient Landscaping and Living Shorelines
Landscaping with Florida-native plants and using wind-resistant hardscaping materials can help protect your property during storms. Additionally, installing living shorelines made of natural materials like plants and sand can reduce coastal erosion while protecting homes near water.
- Energy Efficiency Improvements
Weatherization initiatives that improve your home’s energy efficiency, such as insulation, air sealing, or other weatherization initiatives can lower your utility bills while also making your home more comfortable.
How to Apply for the Rebate
To take advantage of the rebate, homeowners or business owners must file an application along with their building permit request. The rebate is processed after the project and permit is completed. Rebate funds are limited to $2,500 per project and are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.For projects that do not require a building permit, such as certain storm-resilient landscaping, applicants can submit their rebate application to the Community Development Department for approval. The Sustainability Office will review the project to determine eligibility.
Why Should You Participate?
Participating in this rebate program not only helps protect your property from natural disasters but also contributes to Dunedin's overall sustainability goals. By upgrading to energy-efficient systems, adopting resilient landscaping practices, or installing hurricane protection, you are ensuring a safer, greener future for both your home and the community.Take this opportunity to safeguard your property and contribute to a more resilient Dunedin. With financial incentives available, now is the perfect time to invest in long-term solutions for your home or business.For more details and application forms, visit the City of Dunedin’s Community Development Department or call (727) 298-3210.