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Financial Assistance Available for Mainers with Damaged Docks, Ports, or Wharfs After Severe Storms and Flooding
Mainers in Select Counties Eligible for Financial Assistance for Damaged Docks, Ports, and Wharfs
Residents of Cumberland, Hancock, Knox, Lincoln, Sagadahoc, Waldo, Washington, and York counties in Maine who had privately owned docks, ports, or wharfs damaged or destroyed by severe storms and flooding from January 9-13 may be eligible for financial assistance from FEMA or the U.S. Small Business Administration.
FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program grants can be used to repair disaster-damaged docks, ports, or wharfs for homeowners who meet the program’s eligibility criteria. A FEMA inspection is required to determine the extent of repairs needed, and applicants must meet specific conditions such as the dock being the only access to the property or the safety of occupants being at risk due to damaged infrastructure.
For homeowners who share access to a dock, port, or wharf, coordination and documentation between FEMA and each applicant are required. All households sharing access must consent to the repair work, agree to use FEMA assistance for repairs, and understand their responsibilities regarding permits and compliance with local codes.
To apply for FEMA assistance, residents can visit DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App, visit a Disaster Recovery Center, or call 800-621-3362. Assistance is available in multiple languages, and accommodations can be made for individuals using relay services.
Additionally, the U.S. Small Business Administration offers low-interest disaster loans for businesses, nonprofit organizations, and homeowners to repair or replace land improvements not covered by insurance. This includes private roads or bridges necessary for property access and other improvements like retaining walls.
Applicants can apply for SBA disaster loans online at sba.gov/disaster, call the Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955, or email [email protected] for more information.
For the latest updates on Maine’s recovery efforts from the January storms and flooding, residents can visit the Maine Flood Resources and Assistance Hub at maine.gov/flood and follow FEMA on social media.
