Florida, Franklin County Roofing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Franklin County Building & Safety Division
The Franklin County Building Department is responsible for the review of proposed construction plans, the issuance of building permits, performing construction inspections, and investigating building code complaints. The department also oversees contractor licensing and provides permitting services for both incorporated and unincorporated areas of the county. Applicants are encouraged to use the online CitizenServe portal for the fastest processing of permit applications, though submissions are also accepted in person or by mail.
Roofing Permit Requirements
A roofing permit is required for roofing projects in Franklin County. To obtain a permit, applicants must submit a complete application package, which typically includes the following:
- A completed Roofing Permit Application.
- A signed contract detailing the contract price.
- A Roof Inspection Affidavit, which must be completed by a qualified professional (such as an engineer, architect, or licensed building inspector) to confirm the installation meets the Hurricane Mitigation Retrofit Manual standards.
- Product approval documentation for all materials used.
- A recorded Notice of Commencement (for contractors).
- Photographs of each plane of the roof with the permit number or address clearly visible on the deck for each inspection.
Rules for Unincorporated Areas
The Franklin County Building Department provides permitting and inspection services for all unincorporated areas of the county, including St. George Island, Eastpoint, Alligator Point, and others. All construction must adhere to the current edition of the Florida Building Code. Specific requirements, such as wind speed ratings (e.g., 130 mph or 140 mph depending on the specific location), may apply to projects in these areas. Property owners are advised to contact the Building Department to verify zoning, flood zone requirements, and any specific design standards applicable to their property before finalizing construction plans.
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Note: The following state-wide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Florida, including Franklin County.
Florida Roofing Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines
Florida State Building Codes and Legislation for Roofing
The State of Florida utilizes the Florida Building Code (FBC), which is a single, statewide building code. The FBC is based on national model codes, such as the International Building Code (IBC) and the International Residential Code (IRC), but it is amended to address Florida's specific climatic needs, particularly regarding high-wind resistance and hurricane protection. The code is updated on a triennial cycle. As of early 2026, the state is operating under the 8th Edition (2023) of the Florida Building Code, which took effect on December 31, 2023.
Key aspects of Florida's roofing regulations include:
- Regulatory Authority: The Florida Building Commission, a 17-member technical body established under Florida Statutes (specifically Sections 553.76 and 553.77, F.S.), is responsible for the development, maintenance, and interpretation of the Florida Building Code. The Commission operates within the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
- High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ): Certain areas, such as Miami-Dade and Broward counties, are designated as HVHZ and are subject to stricter roofing standards, including enhanced wind-uplift, underlayment, and product-approval requirements.
- The 25% Rule: Historically, the FBC included a provision stating that if 25% or more of a roof was damaged or replaced within a 12-month period, the entire roof had to be brought up to current code. Recent legislative changes, including Senate Bill 4-D (2022), have clarified this rule. For roofs permitted and installed under the 2007 FBC or later, only the damaged or replaced portion is generally required to be brought up to current code standards, rather than the entire roof.
- Permitting: Florida law requires a building permit for nearly all roof replacements and major repairs. Local jurisdictions (cities and counties) are responsible for enforcing the FBC, issuing permits, and conducting inspections.
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