TX HB1228

Municipalities and counties must allow owners of damaged residential buildings to immediately begin emergency repairs to protect public safety, prevent further damage, or preserve structural integrity without waiting for permit approval

Owners must apply for an emergency permit within 3 business days after repairs commence or after the municipality/county is able to accept applications, whichever is later

Repairs qualifying for this expedited process exclude new construction or "substantial improvements" as defined under federal floodplain regulations (44 C.F.R. Section 59.1)

Local governments retain authority to conduct code inspections after repairs are made, and owners must still comply with state and federal health and safety requirements including Water Code floodplain provisions

Property owners wrongfully prohibited from conducting emergency repairs may sue the municipality or county for damages plus attorney's fees, with governmental immunity waived for such claims; the governor cannot exempt local governments from these requirements via executive order