GULF SHORES, Ala. — On Monday, Gulf Shores Mayor Robert Craft laid down guidelines for businesses wanting to assist with disaster recovery services.

Under Section 8-16 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Gulf Shores, the Mayor declared a “period of declared local disaster.”

According to the declaration, beginning June 15, 2010, any person or entity desiring to engage in the business of the provision of disaster damage recovery services of any kind within the City of Gulf Shores who is not already licensed to do business within the city shall be required to obtain a disaster period business license at the cost of $1,000. Any person or entity desiring to engage in the business of the provision of disaster damage recovery services solely within the police jurisdiction of the City of Gulf Shores who is not already licensed to do business within Gulf Shores or its police jurisdiction will be required to obtain a disaster period business license at the cost of $500.

“This is not something that requires council action,” Craft explained to those in attendance at the Monday afternoon council meeting.

Similar to Orange Beach

“This is very similar to what Orange Beach has done, with outside folks coming in from Maine or wherever.”

Craft said that after June 15, the city’s structure licensing these types of businesses will be identical to Orange Beach.

“This way they won’t be leaving there and coming here because this is an easier place to work. And again, we are trying to give as much focus on the locals who already have businesses licenses here.”

The ordinance also carries with it stricter insurance requirements.

The period of local disaster licensing changes will be in effect beginning Tuesday, June 15 and will continue until the 207th day following June 15 or until the declaration is rescinded by action of the mayor.