Brevard County, FL Hurricane Preparedness: Hurricane Shutters (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Brevard County Code § 22-278(e)(9)
- Shutters allowed
- Only temporarily, during actual storm threat
- Access requirement
- One exterior door must remain usable
- Applies to
- Unincorporated Brevard County only
- Enforced by
- Brevard County Code Enforcement
Summary
Brevard County's property maintenance code lets owners install storm shutters or panels on occupied homes only temporarily, during an actual storm threat, and requires one exterior door to stay accessible while shutters are up.
(9)Storm shutters. Windows and doors in occupied dwelling units shall not be boarded or covered, except for the temporary installation or closure of storm shutters, panels, or other hurricane protection devices during the threat of storm. While such protection is provided, at least one door leading directly to the building exterior shall be provided.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 135).
Full Breakdown
Under the county's property maintenance code, occupied dwelling windows and doors can't be boarded up or covered, except for storm shutters, panels, or other hurricane protection devices installed temporarily while a storm actually threatens the area. Once shutters go up, at least one door leading directly outside must stay usable, so occupants always have an exit. Brevard County Code Enforcement, under the building official, enforces this maintenance standard countywide in unincorporated Brevard; incorporated cities like Melbourne, Palm Bay and Titusville administer their own separate codes.
Violations & Fines
Violations go through Brevard County Code Enforcement under Code of Ordinances Chapter 2, Article VI, Division 2, and Florida Statutes Chapter 162: special master hearings, fines, and liens for uncorrected code violations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I permanently board up my windows with hurricane shutters in unincorporated Brevard County?
Does this rule apply inside Melbourne, Palm Bay, or Titusville?
Does Brevard County set wind-load or installation standards for hurricane shutters?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Brevard County
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Brevard County to another location·View the Florida hurricane preparedness overview
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