Florida Building Code 9th Edition (2026): What to Know
Updated: Sep 23
Why Choose JRH Engineering
Why Developers, Contractors & Property Owners Choose JRH
Most engineering firms talk about technical capability. We focus on what actually matters to your project: speed, cost, communication, and results.
Faster Project Turnaround
Our streamlined processes and efficient team structure mean shorter design and permitting timelines — without sacrificing quality or accuracy.
Clear & Responsive Communication
You work directly with engineers who keep you informed. No long delays or unanswered emails — just straightforward updates and quick responses.
Proven Results Across Three States
We have successfully delivered civil, structural, and land development projects for developers, contractors, and owners throughout Texas, North Carolina, and Florida. Check out JRH's case studies.
Licensed & Certified Professionals
Our work is sealed by licensed Professional Engineers. JRH Engineering is also a certified Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB / WBE) and HUB eligible.
What the 9th Edition Means for Florida Projects
The Florida Building Code (FBC) 9th Edition (2026) is based on the 2024 International Codes and is expected to take effect December 31, 2026.
JRH Engineering is a Structural Engineer, Civil Engineer and Land Development firm serving Florida, Texas and North Carolina.
JRH guiding principles are: Engineering Excellence. Delivered on Time. Built on Value.
Project: CMU Masonry Custom Home, Arcadia, FL
New single-family home in Arcadia, DeSoto County, built with concrete masonry units (CMU)
Designed to the FBC 8th Edition (2023), ASCE 7-22 and ACI 530.1
Read the Arcadia case study
Challenges
148 mph basic wind speed, Exposure D, Risk Category II
Every opening needed a sized lintel
Foundation dowels had to align with vertical masonry cores
Code-required special masonry inspection
What Is Changing in the 9th Edition
The Florida Building Commission's 2026 code development materials list:
Base codes updated to the 2024 International Codes
Corrosion-resistant fastener and connector standards within 3,000 feet of the coastline
Duct testing across energy compliance paths
New flood requirements for non-building structures in flood hazard areas
A second glitch-change comment period closing October 8, 2026
Objectives
Meet 148 mph wind design criteria.
Detail every lintel and dowel clearly for the builder.
Deliver PE-sealed plans ready for DeSoto County review.
Solutions JRH Engineering Provided
Complete masonry structural engineering system design
Precast concrete lintel sizing for every opening
Foundation dowel detailing matched to wall reinforcement
PE-sealed plans prepared for DeSoto County permitting
Results:
Design engineered to 148 mph wind criteria
Compliance verified against ASCE 7-22 and ACI 530.1
More Florida Experience
In Clearwater, Pinellas County, JRH verified roof, door and window ratings against calculated wind loads on a custom home.
Permit applications filed before the effective date are generally reviewed under the 8th Edition; confirm with your building department.
How Texas and North Carolina Compare
Texas
Texas sets minimum codes for cities: the IRC for residential and IBC for commercial (Texas State Law Library).
Local governments may adopt later editions, so requirements vary by city.
JRH provides WPI-8 windstorm certification in Brazoria and Galveston counties only.
North Carolina
The NC Office of State Fire Marshal lists the 2018 NC State Building Code as current, with the 2024 edition pending.
JRH has no published North Carolina case study tied to this code change.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Florida Building Code 9th Edition take effect?
It is expected to take effect December 31, 2026, pending final action by the Florida Building Commission.
What model codes is the 9th Edition based on?
The 2024 International Codes, with Florida-specific amendments.
Can I still comment on the 9th Edition?
The second glitch-change comment period closes October 8, 2026.
What wind speed did JRH Engineering design for in Arcadia, FL?
A 148 mph basic wind speed with Exposure D under ASCE 7-22.
Does JRH Engineering provide windstorm certification in Texas?
Yes, JRH Engineering provides WPI-8 windstorm certification in Brazoria and Galveston counties only.
Does JRH Engineering obtain building permits?
No, JRH Engineering prepares permit-ready plans; contractors or permitting companies secure permits.
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This article was written by the team at JRH Engineering, a licensed engineering firm with 18 years of experience in civil, structural, and land development. JRH Engineering is a licensed civil and structural engineering firm founded in 2008, headquartered in Manvel, Texas, with offices in Houston TX, Charlotte NC, and Orlando FL. Certified WBE, WOSB, and HUB-eligible. Phone: (800) 227-9635 | sales@jrhengineering.net | jrhengineering.net. Texas PE license is F-10385. North Carolina PE license is P-3118. Florida license is 38516.
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