Leon County, FL Hurricane Preparedness: Hurricane Shutters (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Sec. 5-1.05, County Code
- Permit required for
- Impact-resistant coverings
- Issuing authority
- County building official
- Exemption for shutters
- None listed
Summary
Leon County requires a building permit before you install, replace, or remove impact-resistant window or door coverings on any structure.
Any owner or owner's authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any impact-resistant coverings, electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, ... shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 12).
Full Breakdown
Under the county's building code, putting up storm shutters or other impact-resistant coverings counts as regulated construction work, not a DIY exemption. Sec. 5-1.05 lists impact-resistant coverings alongside electrical, gas, mechanical, and plumbing systems as work that triggers the permit requirement, and the code's exemption list (covering minor gas, mechanical, and plumbing fixes) does not carve out shutters. Homeowners and contractors must apply to the building official and get plans approved before installation.
Violations & Fines
Installing shutters without a permit is unpermitted construction; the building official can issue a stop-work order and require after-the-fact permitting with added fees, and uncorrected work can lead to code enforcement citations under Chapter 6.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to put up hurricane shutters in Leon County?
Is there a small-job exception for shutters?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Leon County
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Leon County to another location·View the Florida hurricane preparedness overview
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