2026 Florida Construction Laws and Updates
In Florida, 2026 is shaping up to be a defining year for residential construction and the state’s overall dedication to resilient housing. Legislature has rewritten parts of the permitting process, the Florida Building Commission is finalizing the 9th Edition of the Florida Building Code and the Construction Industry Licensing Board continues to tighten enforcement. The state legislation has also been pushing for stronger, wind-hardened building envelopes along the coast.
The primary change for builders and contractors is House Bill 803, signed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in early May 2026 and taking effect on July 1st. In an effort to speed up the homebuilding process, local governments must now exempt single-family residential work valued at $7,500 or less from building permit requirements.
Florida has long required impact-resistant construction in the High-Velocity Hurricane Zone, which historically covers Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. House Bill 911 expands that footprint substantially, directing the next edition of the Florida Building Code to require impact-resistant building envelopes capable of withstanding wind events of at least 160 mph for several new categories of structures.
