What are the window code requirements in Florida?
Asked by: Mr. Ricky Boyle PhD | Last update: July 20, 2025Score: 4.4/5 (44 votes)
The Florida window codes require all windows to be impact resistant. The glass must be strong to withstand any wind from either part of the state.
What are the window code requirements for residential in Florida?
The Florida Building Code (FBC) requires windows to be impact-resistant or protected if located within one mile of the coast where the wind speed is 110 mph or greater. (Of course, even if your home is not located in this area, this may be a good idea.)
What is the new law for windows in Florida?
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed the Building Regulations (HB 267) into law. It requires the Florida Building Commission to modify Florida's building codes for windows, doors and garage doors by waiving requirements for sealed drawings to replace windows, doors, and garage doors in homes that meet state standards.
What is the building code 25 rule for windows in Florida?
If more than 25% of the windows and/or doors in a pre-Florida Building Code home are being replaced and the windows/doors are NOT impact glass, the windows/doors are required to have opening protection (such as shutters).
What areas of Florida require impact windows?
The Florida Building Code (FBC) requires impact-resistant windows on all new residential and commercial construction in Florida. This requirement applies to all buildings located within one mile of the coast where the basic wind speed is 110 mph or greater.
KEY Features for New Construction Windows in Florida!
What is the egress code for a window in Florida?
The Florida Building Code says that the minimum net-clear opening requirement for an egress window is 5.0 square feet for any bedroom window on the first floor and 5.7 square feet for any bedroom window above the first floor. A net-clear opening is the unobstructed opening of your window.
Is there a difference between hurricane impact windows and impact windows?
While both types of windows offer significant protection, there are notable differences: Level of Protection: Hurricane Windows: Provide good protection but may not meet the highest impact resistance standards. Impact Windows: Offer superior protection with higher impact resistance.
Do you need a permit to replace windows in FL?
Do I need a permit to replace my exterior doors and/or windows? Yes. We require a site plan showing the location of the windows/ doors, the Florida Product Approval number, and installation specifications. If the size of the window or doors are changing, additional plans may be required.
What is the new 25 rule in Florida?
Not more than 25 percent of the total roof area or roof section of any existing building or structure shall be repaired, replaced or recovered in any 12-month period unless the entire roofing system or roof section conforms to requirements of this code.
What is Section 116 of the Florida Building Code?
[A] 116.1 Unsafe conditions.
Unsafe structures shall be taken down and removed or made safe, as the building official deems neces- sary and as provided for in this section. A vacant structure that is not secured against unauthorized entry shall be deemed unsafe.
Can a homeowner install their own windows in Florida?
If you're dealing with a broken exterior door or window, a license is required for any repair/replacement work to be done. In this scenario, we always recommend working with a licensed contractor, like TSpark. This is because this type of project can alter the building's structure.
What is the new law in 2025?
California has several laws set to take effect on January 1, 2025, including laws expanding protections against unlawful discrimination; prohibiting mandatory workplace meetings to discuss political or religious matters, including union organizing; and allowing employers to obtain temporary restraining orders (TROs) ...
Who is eligible for the Florida state rebate for impact windows?
The program is designed to encourage the installation of impact windows in homes located in high risk hurricane areas. To be eligible, homeowners must reside in Florida and their property must be located within a designated wind borne debris region.
What is code for a window?
These windows must have a minimum net clear opening of at least 5.7 square feet, an unobstructed height of at least 24 inches, and a width of at least 20 inches. The distance of a window from the floor (also known as the "window sill") should be at most 44 inches.
Do I need double pane windows in Florida?
If you live in a hurricane-prone area or prioritize storm protection, impact windows are recommended. The best option for Florida residents that have hot summers and hurricanes we recommend Double Pane Impact Windows to get the best of both worlds.
What are the requirements for window buck in Florida?
Unless otherwise tested, bucks shall extend beyond the interior face of the window or door frame such that full support of the frame is provided. Anchors shall adequately transfer load from the window or door frame into the rough opening substrate [see Figures R609. 7.2(1) and R6097.
What is the 7 year rule in Florida?
According to the FCRA's “7-year rule,” for example, certain criminal records must be removed from an applicant's history after seven years. These records include civil lawsuits, judgments against an applicant, arrest records, and paid tax liens. The FCRA also imposes a few additional restrictions on Florida employers.
What is the 50% rule in Florida?
The 50% Rule is a regulation of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) that prohibits improvements to a structure exceeding 50% of its market value unless the entire structure is brought into full compliance with current flood regulations.
What is the 5 year rule in Florida?
In order to qualify for long-term Medicaid in Florida, such as nursing home or assisted living care, the applicant must not have given away (i.e., made "uncompensated transfers") assets within five years of applying for Medicaid benefits. This is generally known as the Medicaid “look-back” period.
What are window regulations in Florida?
The glass must be strong to withstand any wind from either part of the state. If you live less than a mile from the coast, your panes must withstand wind speeds of 130 mph or more, and if your home is further in-land, your windows must resist up to 140 mph or higher wind speeds.
Do I need permission to install new windows?
If you want to add extra windows to a property, you need planning permission. There are procedures for what falls into permitted improvements and when planning permission is needed. Read on for more!
Can a handyman install windows?
With this in mind, you could be looking at spending a week or more having new windows installed if you trust a handyman to do it. They're often going to take a long time to install windows in homes, and it could lead to your entire window replacement project dragging out for way longer than you anticipated.
What is the average cost of hurricane impact windows in Florida?
Average Cost of Impact Windows in Florida
The average cost for impact windows in Florida, including installation, typically ranges from $600 to $1,500 per window. The final price depends on window size, frame material, glass type, and additional customization options.
Can impact windows withstand category 5?
Impact windows are made of laminated glass, consisting of multiple layers of glass bonded with a plastic interlayer. This construction makes them highly durable and capable of withstanding extreme wind pressures and flying debris, critical factors in meeting Cat 5 standards.
What are the negatives of impact windows?
Cons of Impact Windows
They're expensive: Impact-resistant storm window costs are often double—perhaps even more—the price of regular windows. This could be a hefty investment, depending on how many windows you want to replace in your home.