ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — St. Petersburg mayor expanded emergency housing options on Saturday for residents impacted by Hurricane Idalia and severe flooding, according to a news release.
Due to the limited number of options involving temporary shelter for people in flood-impacted neighborhoods, Mayor Ken Welch authorized the use of recreational vehicles and travel trailers on residential lots, the release explained.
"As our residents start the process of repairing and rebuilding their homes due to significant water damage from storm surge caused by Hurricane Idalia, the City of St. Petersburg is committed and compassionate when it comes to implementing efficient solutions and helping families stay connected to their communities," Welch said in a statement.
"Effective immediately, residents can utilize recreational vehicles and travel trailers for temporary shelter
and housing on their own property and still be in compliance with code enforcement policies."
According to the statement, for the next six months, St. Petersburg Code Enforcement will suspend issuing fines, citations and penalties related to this specific sheltering and housing plan for residents who have been displaced by Hurricane Idalia.
St. Pete residents in affected areas can contact the Housing and Neighborhood Services Administration for additional assistance: JoeWaugh@stpete.org
