Are Impact Windows Required in Florida?

The information on this page was last updated on July 26, 2025

Are Impact Windows Required in Florida?

If you own a home in Florida or are planning to build or renovate one, you're likely wondering: Are impact windows required by law? The answer depends on your location, building specifications, and local wind zone designation.

Understanding Florida’s Building Code

Florida enforces some of the strictest building codes in the United States—especially in regions prone to hurricanes. The Florida Building Code (FBC) outlines when impact-resistant windows and doors are mandatory. These codes are designed to protect homes and buildings from windborne debris during severe storms.

Under current FBC regulations, impact windows or other approved protective systems (like shutters) are required for:

• Homes located within one mile of the coast where the basic wind speed is 110 mph or greater
• Homes located in designated High Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ) — specifically in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties

If your home falls within these areas, your windows and doors must either be:

• Impact-resistant and tested to withstand debris impacts, or
• Protected by permanent or deployable hurricane shutters that meet the same standards

2What About Other Parts of Florida?

Outside the HVHZ (like Palm Beach County and parts of Southwest and Central Florida), impact windows may not be strictly required — but many municipalities still encourage or mandate windborne debris protection depending on the home's wind exposure rating and construction type.

Even when not required by law, installing impact windows is highly recommended for:

• Storm protection during hurricane season
• Energy efficiency and UV protection
• Enhanced security against break-ins
• Insurance premium reductions

How to Know If Your Home Needs Impact Windows

Whether you’re replacing windows or building new construction, determining your exact requirements depends on:

• Your city or county’s code enforcement office
• Your home’s distance from the coast
• Your wind zone rating
• The presence (or absence) of existing protective systems

We can help you evaluate your home’s status and provide a free estimate for code-compliant impact windows or doors.

Serving All of South Florida

Impact Windows & Doors of South Florida proudly serves:

• Miami-Dade County (HVHZ – impact windows required)
• Broward County (HVHZ – impact windows required)
• Palm Beach County

Get a Free Code-Compliant Estimate Today

Not sure if you need impact windows? Want to explore your options for protection, performance, and pricing?

We’ll assess your location, explain your local code requirements, and help you choose the best protection for your home.

Get a free in-home estimate on new hurricane proof impact windows. We provide you a price including financing options with no pushy sales tactics; please call (561) 422-4935