New Code Updates! What we need to know!

Florida Association of Plumbing, Gas & Mechanical Inspectors

Official Newsletter – Florida Building Code 9th Edition (2026) Update

Florida Building Code Development: 2024 International Code Changes & 9th Edition (2026)

The development of the Florida Building Code (FBC), 9th Edition (2026) is currently underway, marking an important milestone in the continued advancement of building safety, resilience, and regulatory consistency across the State of Florida. This edition integrates the 2024 International Code updates, along with Florida-specific amendments developed through an extensive and collaborative rulemaking process.

The Florida Building Commission remains committed to maintaining a code that reflects current industry standards, addresses Florida’s unique environmental challenges, and promotes public safety and welfare.

Rule Development & Workshop Process

In September 2024, the Commission initiated the formal rule development process with the Rule Development Workshop, followed by a series of Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) meetings and Post-TAC review sessions.

Each phase of development includes:

• Published Agendas

• Comprehensive Detail Reports

• Formal Tracking Charts

• Review of Local Amendments and Supporting Documentation

• Stakeholder and public input opportunities

This structured review ensures transparency, technical accuracy, and statewide consistency.

Technical Advisory Committees (TAC) Review Areas

The 9th Edition review process includes detailed evaluation across all major code disciplines:

Accessibility

Review of accessibility standards to ensure compliance with state and federal mandates, maintaining usability and equitable access in built environments.

Code Administration

Updates to permitting procedures, enforcement protocols, inspection requirements, and administrative provisions necessary for effective implementation.

Electrical

Integration of updated electrical safety standards, system installation requirements, and emerging technologies.

Energy

Enhanced building performance requirements reflecting energy efficiency advancements and Florida’s climate considerations.

Fire

Evaluation of fire-resistance ratings, life-safety systems, means of egress, and fire protection standards.

Mechanical

Updates to HVAC systems, ventilation standards, indoor air quality requirements, and equipment efficiency.

Plumbing

Revisions to water supply systems, sanitary drainage, venting, gas piping, and public health protections.

Roofing

Strengthened wind uplift resistance and installation standards critical to Florida’s hurricane-prone environment.

Special Occupancy

Review of requirements specific to unique building types and specialized occupancies.

Structural

Assessment of wind loads, flood resistance, structural integrity, and resilience criteria tailored to Florida conditions.

Swimming Pools

Safety enhancements addressing barriers, circulation systems, entrapment prevention, and construction standards.

Local Amendments Review

Local jurisdictions may submit proposed amendments for consideration. Each amendment undergoes thorough evaluation to determine:

• Technical justification

• Impact on statewide uniformity

• Consistency with minimum life-safety standards

• Fiscal and economic considerations

All proposals are documented through detailed reports and monitored using tracking charts to ensure accountability throughout the adoption cycle.

Commitment to Florida’s Built Environment

The Florida Building Code continues to serve as a national model for resilience and innovation. The 9th Edition (2026) reflects:

• Lessons learned from past storm events

• Advances in building science and technology

• Energy efficiency improvements

• Strong stakeholder collaboration

• Protection of public health, safety, and welfare

The Florida Association of Plumbing, Gas & Mechanical Inspectors encourages members to remain engaged in the review process and to monitor published agendas, reports, and tracking documentation as development progresses.

https://www.floridabuilding.org/fbc/thecode/2026_Code_Development/2026_Code_Development_Process.html

Back to top

President's Corner

Welcome to the FAPGMI website, where we are dedicated to Building Knowledge to Ensure Public Safety. Since our establishment in 1966, the Florida Association of Plumbing, Gas, and Mechanical Inspectors has focused on educating our members and guests about Florida's plumbing, gas, and mechanical codes. Join us in our mission to promote safety and excellence in our industry!

I am truly honored to serve as your President for the 2024-2025 term. My name is Michael Edwards, and I currently hold the position of Deputy Chief Plans Examiner for Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing in Orange County at the Orange County Building Division. 

With 21 years of experience in the code side of the industry and a prior background as an electrical contractor for 12 years in North Carolina, I am excited to contribute my expertise to this role.

I am enthusiastic about the initiatives we have in store for our organization this year. We are revitalizing several committees and introducing new ones, including:

  **Website**

 **Membership**

 **By-Laws**

 **Education/Classes**

 **Scholarship**

 **Conference/Seminar**

 **Audit**

 If you are interested in joining any of these committees, please reach out with a brief introduction about yourself and your motivation for wanting to participate, along with your preferred committee.

 Our aim is to hold monthly meetings via Webex or Teams to discuss pertinent topics for each committee. We believe that online meetings will enhance participation and make it more convenient for members to engage without the need for travel.

 We have significant work ahead to establish FAPGMI as the premier resource for all matters related to The Florida Plumbing, Gas, and Mechanical Trades. Please stay tuned to our website for exciting updates and changes!

Back to top