Hurricane Shutters: North Port vs Sarasota
How do hurricane shutters rules compare between North Port, FL and Sarasota, FL?
Sarasota has fewer restrictions than North Port.
North Port, FL
Sarasota County
The Florida Building Code (8th edition, 2023) requires all new construction in North Port to provide hurricane-impact protection for all glazed openings - either tested impact-resistant windows/doors or code-compliant shutters rated for the design wind speed (140 mph Vasd in this part of Sarasota County).
View full North Port rules →Sarasota, FL
Sarasota County
Sarasota lies in the Florida Building Code Wind-Borne Debris Region with ultimate wind speed of 150+ mph (ASCE 7). Window and door openings must have approved impact protection (rated shutters, impact-rated glass, or panels meeting ASTM E1886 / E1996) for any new construction, substantial improvement, or substantial damage repair.
View full Sarasota rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | North Port | Sarasota |
|---|---|---|
| Wind Zone | 140-150 mph Vasd | - |
| FBC Section | Section 1609 opening protection | 1609 + ASCE 7 |
| Permit Required | Yes - Building Division | - |
| Approval | Florida Product Approval or MD NOA | - |
| Design Wind | - | 150-160 mph ultimate |
| WBDR | - | Required protection at all openings |
| Standards | - | ASTM E1886 / E1996 |
| Plywood Allowed | - | 1-2 family ≤ 33 ft per Sec. 1609.2 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
North Port FAQ
Do I need impact windows or shutters in North Port?
Yes - new construction must protect all glazed openings (impact glass or code-compliant shutters). Retrofits require permits and product approval matching the design wind speed.
Sarasota FAQ
Do I need hurricane shutters in Sarasota?
Required for new construction and substantial improvement. Existing homes are grandfathered but should retrofit for safety and insurance discounts. Sarasota is in the FBC Wind-Borne Debris Region at 150-160 mph design wind.
Can I use plywood instead of shutters in Sarasota?
Only on 1-2 family dwellings 33 feet or less in mean roof height per FBC Sec. 1609.2, with specific fastening (1/2-inch plywood, lag screws every 16 inches). It's a permitted code option but not a long-term solution.
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