If you're close to the water or a gut that runs into the sea, chances are you'll need an earth move permit from DPNR/CZM (Coastal Zone Management) if you're moving earth to build the deck/shower. That in turn will require submitting a stamped plan of your proposed work. Not a big deal to get. 

Thanks for the reply that's helpful to know. Luckily we are high up on a hill so the deck part should be rather simple it's covering only earth instead of air.

@nanner

if you're putting in piers for your new deck you're moving earth. All projects large and small - high and low - require CZM permits. The issue is protection of our island's reef from runoff. 

You'll need engineered drawings for your deck in this earthquake and hurricane prone part of the world.

https://activerain.com/blogsview/313894/building-permits-in-st--croix

https://coast.noaa.gov/data/czm/media/usvi-cmp.pdf

@gators_mom

Thanks for the links. We'll get on it. Know a good tiler?

Posted by: @nanner

@gators_mom

Thanks for the links. We'll get on it. Know a good tiler?

I'll let you know - we'll be looking for one in the next month, too.  

Better question- do you know where you're going to get your tile?

This particular project rather small in nature and not exotic so Home Depot works for us. I have heard horror stories about getting enough tile to complete a project. Use any friends you have in the states, or choose a location in FLA and enlist a freight forwarder.

I thought I saw something recently that Armrey now carries tile but there's no mention of it on their web site.  At least you can overbuy at Home Depot to make sure you have enough and return what you don't use or break.  I'm going to be re-doing my bathroom shower and floor soon myself and don't really want to deal with special ordering tile.

I recently special ordered several pallets of ivory travertine and matching footboard from Home Depot. Unlike the tub, and sinks which had to be forwarded to Paradise Freight in Miami first, the tile was shipped directly to the store here on STX. All arrived in good shape and when expected.

@nanner

Try reaching out to Cory Moore (340-642-3820) about the tile installation.

I haven't used him yet, but planning to after I split my basement shop to provide a bedroom for our basement apartment.

I have had several referrals to him from people I trust on the island and I've talked to him. I've also seen some of the work he's done and it looks very good.

Don't forget to discuss schedule with any professional tradesmen you talk to so you have reasonable expectations on when the project will be finished.

Thanks, everyone! I really appreciate all the great shared info. I'm aware I could be without a bathroom for a few months. Good thing we have a backup! That's great you can order tile from HD and have it sent to the store here. I'll check in with Cory as well.

I’m a small business owner for 35 years in Connecticut. A carpenter/contractor who is hands on doing smaller jobs these days, mostly bathroom remodels. All types of Carpentry and tile work from the simplest to the most detailed. I’ll be on island March 4 til March 18 and am looking for a few days work. 

Posted by: @fishinstx

I’m a small business owner for 35 years in Connecticut. A carpenter/contractor who is hands on doing smaller jobs these days, mostly bathroom remodels. All types of Carpentry and tile work from the simplest to the most detailed. I’ll be on island March 4 til March 18 and am looking for a few days work. 

You might get more takers on the USVI Classifieds forum.