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.

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.

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:

• Allow property owners to restore dunes in a Restoration Area to minimize further threat or damage to coastal residents and littoral property.
• Allow homeowners to undertake emergency stabilization and repair of a home to prevent further damage.
• Allow property owners to undertake emergency repairs and shortening of a dune walkover to remove any potential impacts to public use of the beach and ensure safety.

New construction and activities not described in the rules must go through the standard permitting process.

Read the GLO’s comprehensive emergency rules, here.