Wind Zone Requirements
A special feature of the new Florida Building Code is the designation of four wind zones that require special consideration from architects and engineers.  The zones are identified in part by the ASCE 7-98 base wind speed map.  Design wind speeds are based on gust speeds.

The four wind zones are:

Special Protection Zone – The area most vulnerable to storm surge, which lies within 1,500 feet of the costal construction control line, or within 1,500 feet of the mean high tide line, whichever is less.

High Velocity Hurricane Zone – Specifically for Miami-Dade and Broward counties, this section of the code replaces the South Florida Building Code.  In these highly vulnerable counties, stricter design and construction measures have been adopted in addition to those provided by ASCE 7-98.

Wind-Borne Debris Region – Areas with wind speeds in excess of 120 mph and/or areas within one mile of the coast where wind speed is 110 mph or higher. 

Panhandle Protection Provision Zone – From Franklin County to the Alabama line, the wind-borne debris region is the area within one mile of the coast.

Design Pressure & Impact Testing

Responsibilities & Opportunities

Dade County Product Approvals

Florida Engineering Certificates