Learning the hard way - Permits needed for most home projects

Submitted by Karen Thompson

Features Reporter

July 9, 2014 7:38 p.m.

Diseased Pine Tree

The old saying “you live and learn” came to mind last week in a big way. A guy knocked on my door early in the morning and informed me that my ugly, dirty pine tree had a disease and for a fee his company would cut it down. And, they would throw in the skinny tree next to it.

I had been contemplating getting these trees cut down for a long time as they are very close to my pergola and the house. So, I said yes, let’s get rid of them if he could provide me with proof of insurance. I received an email from the insurer and work began. One guy and a helper started sawing small branches, then big as I peeked in fear from various windows.

When the trunks reached about ten feet, Michelle Forstrom, Fernandina’s Code Compliance Officer showed up at my front door. Oh- oh! She said I needed a permit to cut down trees on my property, a fact that the tree-trimming company failed to tell me. She looked at the trees and viewed the diseased parts. She said I should take photos and follow her downtown to city hall. It was a blessing that the trees were still standing, minus branches, because I needed proof of disease to show the permit writers.

Let me say that everyone at the city office was helpful and understanding. But, I learned a few important lessons. First, door-to-door solicitation is illegal in Fernandina Beach. Second, you need a permit to cut down a tree in the city. Since my tree was diseased and I could prove it with photos, I did not have to pay for the permit. If both trees had been ground up and in the Advance Disposal truck on their way to someone’s compost pile, I would have had to pay a fine…….I didn’t dare ask how much. Lesson learned.

Kelly Gibson

As long as I was at city hall, I thought it might be a good idea to take this lesson a step further with information for other city dwellers. I talked to Kelly Gibson, Senior Planner. Here is a roundup of other household projects that may need a permit.

*new and replacement fencing

*sheds

*plumbing

*electrical

*AC replacement

*pools and spas

*deck replacements and additions

*new driveways

*PODS

*right-of-way encroachments/uses

*sunroom enclosures

*remodel work

*demolition or partial demolition

*irrigation systems

*pergola or gazebo

*roof replacement

Just about every building project needs a permit. City staff suggest that if you are in doubt, give them a call. They are always ready to help at 310-3135.

Editor's Note: Karen moved to Fernandina Beach three years ago after working in Chicago as a senior public relations specialist for the Midwestern regional office of the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency. Prior to that, she was an editor, columnist and writer for a chain of Chicago newspapers , an account executive for several Chicago public relations agencies and proprietor of her own pr/marketing business. She grew up and earned her journalism degree in Wisconsin.