St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch Expands Emergency Housing Options for Residents Impacted by Hurricane Idalia and Severe Flooding

September 2, 2023 – Due to the limited number of options involving temporary shelter for people in flood impacted neighborhoods, St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch is authorizing the on-site use of recreational vehicles and travel trailers on residential lots.

“As our residents start the process of repairing and rebuilding their homes due to significant water damage from storm surge caused by Hurricane Idalia, the City of St. Petersburg is committed and compassionate when it comes to implementing efficient solutions and helping families stay connected to their communities,” said Mayor Kenneth T. Welch. “Effective immediately, residents can utilize recreational vehicles and travel trailers for temporary shelter and housing on their own property and still be in compliance with code enforcement policies.”

For the next six months, St. Petersburg Code Enforcement will suspend issuing fines, citations and penalties related to this specific sheltering and housing plan for residents who have been displaced by Hurricane Idalia.

St. Pete residents in adversely affected areas can contact the Housing and Neighborhood Services Administration for additional assistance: Joe.Waugh@stpete.org