FAQ
Are you an installer?
No. This is an independent guide. Quote requests are shared with local installers who contact you directly.
Do I need a permit?
In Oklahoma City, yes, for both above- and below-ground shelters (City of OKC Development Center). Suburbs set their own rules.
Can I get a rebate in 2026?
Not from SoonerSafe; it is not open for 2026 (Oklahoma OEM SoonerSafe page). Details: 2026 rebate status.
What standards should a shelter meet?
FEMA P-320, FEMA P-361 and ICC 500, the standards OEM references for its rebate.
How much does one cost?
Roughly $3,300 to $15,000 installed based on published metro prices. See costs.
Should I register my shelter?
Oklahoma City lets you register it so first responders can check it after a storm (City of OKC Development Center). How: registering a shelter in OKC.
Does it cost anything to request quotes?
No. There is no charge to you and no obligation.
Who gets my request?
One or more local installers who agree to contact requesters. See how this works.
What should a shelter be built to withstand?
FEMA's criteria call for a residential safe room to resist 250 mph winds and a 15-pound 2x4 board striking at 100 mph (FEMA P-320, Taking Shelter From the Storm (2008), hosted by NWS).
Does FEMA certify shelters?
No. FEMA does not test or certify shelters; the National Storm Shelter Association runs a seal program, so ask for test reports or the seal (same source).
Is it cheaper to add a safe room while building?
Usually. FEMA says adding one to an existing home typically costs about 20% more than building it in during construction (same source).
Have safe rooms made a difference in Oklahoma?
FEMA reports that the Oklahoma Safe Room Initiative helped pay for 6,016 home safe rooms after the May 3, 1999 tornadoes (same source; NWS Norman: May 3, 1999 outbreak).
Who should know I have a shelter?
FEMA suggests telling local emergency managers and family, so responders know to check it after a storm (FEMA P-320, Taking Shelter From the Storm (2008), hosted by NWS). Registering with your city does the same job.
Newer guides: Storm season checklist · Shelter rebate 2026 · Register your shelter · FEMA P-320 and ICC 500
Last checked Oct 23, 2026.
Related: shelter types and permits by city. When you are ready, get a quote.