Operation Blue Roof application deadline Friday

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BAY COUNTY — The deadline to apply for a house tarp through Operation Blue Roof is Friday.

The disaster recovery program is through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and FEMA and is designed to give some relief for damaged structures while residents work to repair their homes.

The program is free for primary homeowners in Bay County, according to a news release. As of Monday, there have been 7,484 sign-ups.

“The blue plastic sheeting is installed using strips of wood that are secured to the roof with nails or screws. Only primary residences that have standard shingled roofs are eligible to receive a temporary blue roof,” the release stated. “Metal roofs and mobile homes will be considered for the program, as practical on a case by case basis. Roofs with greater than 50 percent structural damage are not eligible for this program.”

 

Renters must obtain legal permission from a landlord to stay in a damaged home until repairs start, and homeowners must sign a right of entry (ROE) form to allow government employees and contractors on the property.

“We recommend homeowners make arrangements for permanent roof repairs within 30 days if possible,” said Edward Loomis, an Army Corps of Engineers spokesman.

ROE forms can be picked up at the Disaster Recovery Center at the Bay County Public Library, 898 W. 11th St., Panama City; the Lynn Haven Wal-Mart, 2101 S. State 77; and the Panama City Beach Wal-Mart, 15495 Panama City Beach Parkway near Pier Park.