Changes to the Florida Building Code and new floodplain maps will mean buildings in the state will have to be built at higher elevations.
Nonresidential buildings will have to be built at 9.5 feet, two feet higher than current requirements. Houses will have to be built at 8.5 feet, a foot higher than what is currently required.
The state building code is expected to incorporate the changes in December after adoption by the Florida Legislature. In Palm Beach, new FEMA maps and changes to the town’s flood ordinances and zoning code must be adopted by early October for the town to remain eligible for federal funds through the National Flood Insurance Program.
Palm Beach officials recently indicated that businesses and residents who have secured building permits but have not yet started construction may build to the higher elevation without facing a penalty.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Feb 5, 2018
Denver’s new green roof mandate raises implementation policies
Voter initiative left many details undecided.
Codes and Standards | Feb 2, 2018
How workplace design can position financial services companies for success
HOK report examines forces reshaping industry.
Codes and Standards | Jan 31, 2018
California is the first state to phase out incandescent light bulbs
In two years, the rest of the U.S. will follow suit.
Codes and Standards | Jan 31, 2018
Automated tool assists in design of force transfer around openings
Engineered Wood Assn. offers free calculator and technical note.
Codes and Standards | Jan 31, 2018
First large-scale use of perovskite solar cells in office building slated for Poland this year
Skanska will integrate the technology into building facades.
Codes and Standards | Jan 29, 2018
Advanced Energy Design Guide for K-12 Schools to achieve zero energy
Publication is joint effort by ASHRAE, AIA, IES, and USGBC.
Codes and Standards | Jan 26, 2018
Flying drones while inebriated now illegal in New Jersey
Violators could be sentenced to six months in jail.
Codes and Standards | Jan 25, 2018
OSHA penalties for violations increase
Fines adjusted for inflation in the New Year.
Codes and Standards | Jan 23, 2018
Disaster mitigation strategies that exceed code could save billions
Four dollars saved for every dollar spent, says NIBS report.
Codes and Standards | Jan 19, 2018
U.S. construction fatalities rose 6% in 2016
Falls accounted for 39% of deadly accidents.
