Miami, FL Hurricane Preparedness: Hurricane Shutters (2026)

Miami-Dade County falls entirely within the High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) as defined by the Florida Building Code (FBC), meaning all construction must meet the most stringent wind and impact requirements in the state. FBC Section 1626 requires that all parts of the building envelope — exterior walls, roofs, doors, skylights, glazing, and glass block — either meet impact test criteria directly (impact-rated windows/doors) or be protected by external protection devices (shutters, screens) that meet impact test criteria. The HVHZ large missile impact test involves shooting a 9-lb, 6-foot 2x4 timber at the product at 50 feet per second — simulating hurricane-borne debris at wind speeds of 170-200+ mph. All products installed in the HVHZ must carry a valid Florida Product Approval specifically for HVHZ use (not just standard Florida approval). Approved protection types include: accordion shutters, roll-down shutters, Bahama shutters, colonial shutters, storm panels (aluminum or steel), and fabric/screen systems — all must have NOA (Notice of Acceptance) from Miami-Dade County or a current Florida Product Approval for HVHZ. Existing buildings undergoing major renovation (replacement of 25%+ of glazing) must upgrade to HVHZ-compliant protection.