If you have a storm shelter in the city of Newcastle and it hasn’t had a permit issued by the City, now is the time to acquire a permit.
The Emergency Management Department, in conjunction with the City of Newcastle’s Planning Department, is urging residents who have existing un-permitted storm shelters or those who intend to build a new shelter to take immediate action to register their shelter or apply for a permit.
They state that because Oklahoma is known for its active storm season with the potential for severe tornadoes, it is crucial for families and businesses to have access to safe shelter in the event of a severe weather emergency.
From February 2023 to July 2023 the department is waiving the fee for new storm shelter permit applications. The City has created an online registration for existing storm shelters. These forms can be found on the city’s web page.
If a new Storm Shelter Permit is submitted during this time but constructed after the fee waiver period, fees shall be waived as long as the permit is still valid.
Not only will obtaining a permit ensure that your shelter meets safety standards, but also it will allow emergency personnel to locate your shelter more easily after severe weather.
Donnie Sullins, assistant emergency manager for the City of Newcastle, said, “We understand that many residents may have built a shelter without obtaining a permit. We want to remind residents that obtaining a permit not only ensures that your shelter meets safety standards but also allows emergency personnel to locate your shelter more easily after severe weather.
“This can make a significant difference in the event of an emergency.”
Residents with existing unpermitted shelters or those who intend to build new shelters are urged to call the Planning Department at 405-3874427 to begin the process.
Sullins said don’t wait because severe weather season is upon us and now is the time to act.
