Hurricane Shutters: Sarasota vs Venice
How do hurricane shutters rules compare between Sarasota, FL and Venice, FL?
Sarasota and Venice have similar restriction levels.
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 →Venice, FL
Sarasota County
Venice Code Ch. 88 adopts the Florida Building Code, which requires every exterior glazed opening in new construction to be impact-resistant or protected by approved shutters meeting ASTM E1886/E1996 large-missile impact standards.
View full Venice rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Sarasota | Venice |
|---|---|---|
| FBC Section | 1609 + ASCE 7 | - |
| 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 | - |
| Code Authority | - | Venice Code Ch. 88 + FBC Sec. 1609 |
| Region | - | Wind-Borne Debris (all Sarasota Co.) |
| Standard | - | ASTM E1886 / E1996 large missile |
| Plywood Alternative | - | Min 7/16 in - one/two story only |
| Penalty | - | Failed inspection + fines |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Venice FAQ
Do I need hurricane shutters in Venice?
Yes for all new exterior glazed openings under the Florida Building Code wind-borne debris rules. Existing homes are not required to retrofit but any new opening must be protected.
Is plywood still allowed for hurricane protection?
Yes for one- and two-story dwellings if installed per FBC R301.2.1.2 with min 7/16-inch thickness - but only as the original construction; substantial improvements must use rated impact glass or approved shutters.
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