Florida Building Code History

The Florida Building Codes Study Commission was established in 1996 to evaluate the existing code system and recommend ways to improve or reform it. After 16 months of study, the commission found a confusing patchwork of codes and regulations - developed, amended, administered and enforced differently by more than 400 local jurisdictions and state agencies with building code responsibilities. When the study commission was complete, it made 60 recommendations that were submitted to the Legislature in 1998. That year, lawmakers adopted a plan that called for a single, statewide code to replace the many local and state codes in existence. The measure also called for increased education, training, discipline and a system for the approval of new building products. The law established the Florida Building Commission (formerly the Board of Building Codes and Standards), comprised of representatives from industry and government groups. The commission is responsible for the development of the code and the elements that supports its implementation. The Florida Department of Community Affairs staffs the Florida Building Commission.

—The Florida Building Commission Publications