07/19/2024 | Press release | Archived content
AUSTIN - Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D. announced emergency rules adopted by the Texas General Land Office (GLO) regarding Emergency Dune Restoration, Stabilization and Repair of Damaged Habitable Structures, and Repair and Shortening of Dune Walkovers.
These emergency rules will expedite the permitting process for local governments in Nueces, Matagorda, Brazoria, and Galveston counties affected by Tropical Storm Alberto and Hurricane Beryl. Implementing these rules will also help property owners make emergency repairs and build dunes quicker without the GLO's review. However, it's important to note that local government authorization is still required.
Commissioner Buckingham surveys dunes in Galveston, Texas on July 18th and discusses emergency rules with the GLO Coastal Team.
As per the emergency rules, local governments are required to maintain a written record of the authorizations, which are valid for six months from issuance. A copy of the written records of the authorizations issued under the emergency rules must be provided to the GLO within one week of the expiration of the emergency rule.
Beginning July 10, 2024, the emergency rules will be in effect for 120 days and may be extended once by the GLO for a maximum of 60 days.
Commissioner Buckingham met with local officials to assess the damage caused by Tropical Storm Alberto and Hurricane Beryl
To assist property owners on the coast with immediate repair and clean-up activities amid an active hurricane season, the emergency rules are as follows:
New construction and activities not described in the rules must go through the standard permitting process.
Read the GLO's comprehensive emergency rules, here.