Oklahoma’s SoonerSafe Rebate Program: Your Guide to Storm Shelter Rebates
When spring hits Oklahoma, tornadoes aren’t just possible—they’re expected. That’s where the SoonerSafe Safe Room Rebate Program comes in. It offers homeowners a way to protect their families without breaking the bank. Here’s everything you need to know.
The SoonerSafe rebate provides an essential resource for those looking to ensure the safety of their homes during storm season.
What Is the SoonerSafe Program?
The SoonerSafe Safe Room Rebate Program is run by the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management. It reimburses eligible homeowners for part of the cost of installing a storm shelter (also called a safe room).
Rebate Amount:
Covers 75% of the total cost
Maximum of $3,000
One rebate per household
This isn’t a loan. It’s money you don’t have to pay back.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the rebate, you must:
Own a single-family home in Oklahoma
Live in that home as your primary residence
Own the land the home sits on
Not already have a safe room installed
Be installing a new FEMA-compliant safe room
Use a professional installer (DIY not allowed)
You’re not eligible if:
You rent your home or land
You’ve already installed a safe room
You’ve received a rebate in the past
You’re trying to install in a multi-family unit or commercial property
Some special cases (like floodplain or historic properties) may still qualify but with added restrictions.
What Types of Safe Rooms Qualify?
The safe room must meet FEMA and ICC standards. This usually includes:
In-ground concrete shelters
Above-ground steel or concrete safe rooms
In Garage floor units
Custom builds can qualify too—but they need to prove they meet federal standards. Also, leases or rent-to-own deals don’t count. You have to fully own the shelter by the time you apply for reimbursement.
How Do You Apply?
It’s easy:
Register online during the open application window (usually spring to fall). Register here
Wait for the random lottery drawing. It’s not first-come, first-served.
If selected, confirm your participation within 30 days.
What If You’re Selected?
You’ll need to:
Hire a contractor to install your safe room (at the same address you applied with)
Pay for it in full (you get reimbursed after for up to $3000)
Submit documentation: invoice, proof of payment, and a Certificate of Installation signed by your installer
Meet all deadlines provided by the program
What Happens Next?
OEM reviews your documents
Once approved, they send you a rebate check (usually within 6–12 weeks)
The check will be for 75% of your total cost, up to $3,000
Other Helpful Info
The rebate isn’t taxable
Property tax exemption available for up to 100 square feet of shelter
You can reapply each year if you don’t get selected (no automatic carryover)
You can apply to local rebate programs too, but only accept one rebate per installation
Conclusion
The SoonerSafe rebate can help you install a storm shelter and save lives. If you qualify, it’s a solid deal: peace of mind and serious savings. Don’t wait for the next warning siren.
Want more details or ready to register? Visit the official SoonerSafe website here
Stay safe out there, Oklahoma.
Call OKC Shelters today for a free quote: 405-896-8080
OR GET A FREE QUOTE HERE
