Disabled veterans to receive fee relief from county for home modifications

SAN DIEGO – San Diego County Supervisors Dianne Jacob and Bill Horn want to help ease the transition from active duty to home life for disabled veterans. On Wednesday, May 15, the board of supervisors took steps to waive fees for disabled veterans who need to modify their homes.

The board directed county staff to amend an ordinance to exempt wounded veterans from building permit and plan review fees associated with making homes more accessible for those in wheelchairs or with other disabilities.

“We are always looking for ways to improve the lives of those who have risked everything to protect our country,” said vice chairperson Dianne Jacob. “By waiving permit fees on home modifications, we can help make sure that our disabled veterans continue to live independently.”

State legislation has also been introduced (AB 151) that authorizes local jurisdictions to grant financial assistance to disabled veterans by reducing or waiving building inspections or permit fees. AB 151 specifically identifies the fees related to home remodeling for wheelchair accessibility and other injury-related modifications. This action registers the board’s support for AB 151, and offers encouragement to other counties to do the same.

“I am humbled and grateful every day for the dedication and sacrifice of our veterans,” said Supervisor Bill Horn. “This is just one small token of our appreciation.”

San Diego County has previously adopted ordinances that reduce or waive certain building permit fees for military personnel.