Thinking about upgrading to impact windows? Great choice. But in Broward County, it’s not just about picking high-quality products; it’s about navigating one of Florida’s toughest permitting processes. With strict codes, required approvals, and mandatory inspections, even simple projects can hit unexpected roadblocks. That’s why smart homeowners turn to SafeGuard Impact to get it done right.
Our licensed professionals know exactly what Broward County requires and work to keep your project compliant and on track. We handle everything, from accurate applications and verified product approvals to city submittals and inspection scheduling, so you don’t have to stress about missing forms or failed inspections. Trust us to meet strict testing and installation guidelines.
Why Do You Need a Permit to Install Impact Windows in Broward County
In Broward County, a permit is required before installing impact windows—no exceptions. The county is part of Florida’s High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ), where strict building codes are enforced to protect homes from hurricane-force winds and airborne debris. According to Section 105.1 of the Florida Building Code (FBC), permits are mandatory for any structural upgrades, including window installation or replacements.
Permitting ensures that your impact windows meet Florida Product Approval or Miami-Dade NOA standards and are installed according to local wind-load and fastening requirements. Skipping this step can lead to serious consequences, such as:
- Failed inspections during resale or refinancing
- Fines or stop-work orders issued by Broward County
- Denied or reduced homeowner’s insurance coverage
- Increased risk of window failure during a major storm
Getting a permit isn’t just about legal compliance—it’s about making sure your home is secure, insurable, and built to withstand Florida’s harshest weather conditions. In Broward County, it’s a necessary step that safeguards your investment and your safety.
How to Get a Permit for Impact Windows in Broward County
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get Broward impact window permits:
Step 1: Access the Correct Application Form
Start by visiting the Broward County ePermits OneStop portal or your specific city’s building department website. Look for the window/door replacement permit application. An initial processing fee, typically around 20% of the total permit cost, is usually required to begin.
Step 2: Complete the Application
Fill out the application form carefully with the following details:
- Permit type (impact window installation)
- Property owner and licensed contractor information
- Scope of work and description
- Total estimated project value
Make sure all details are accurate to avoid rejections or delays.
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Submit the completed application along with:
- Two complete sets of sealed building plans
- Florida Product Approval or Miami-Dade NOA for each window type
- Proof of upfront fee payment
- Notice of Commencement (for jobs over $2,500)
Applications can be submitted online through ePermitsOneStop or in person at your city’s building department, depending on the jurisdiction. A processing or tracking number will be issued for future reference.
Step 4: Wait for Permit Approval and Schedule Inspections
Permit processing times may vary depending on the property type:
- Residential projects: up to 30 business days
- Commercial projects: up to 50 business days
Once your permit is approved, schedule inspections promptly. To keep the permit active, you must pass at least one inspection within 180 days of issuance.
At SafeGuard Impact, our accredited professionals are familiar with Broward’s building codes and permitting requirements. You can count on us to ensure full compliance and minimize approval delays.
Why Getting a Permit for Impact Window Installation Matters in Broward County
Here’s why securing a permit for impact window installation is essential:
- Ensures Compliance with HVHZ Building Codes
Broward County falls within Florida’s High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ), where strict building standards are applied. A permit confirms your impact windows meet the required wind-load, anchoring, and impact resistance codes set by the Florida Building Code (FBC).
- Confirms Proper Installation
Permitted projects must be completed by a state-licensed contractor using approved products like Florida Product Approval or Miami-Dade NOA–certified windows. This permit ensures your windows are installed correctly, safely, and up to standard.
- Protects You from Legal Issues
Skipping the permit can result in fines, stop-work orders, or forced removal of the windows. It may also cause problems during insurance claims, property sales, or home refinancing. A valid permit protects you from these risks.
- Preserves and Increases Property Value
Proper permits show potential buyers that you completed your home upgrades according to code and received official county approval. This transparency builds buyer confidence and can increase your home’s resale value.
- Qualifies for Insurance Discounts
Many insurance companies in Florida offer discounts for homes or properties with permitted, impact-rated windows. Providing proof of proper installation and a passed final inspection can help you qualify for reduced premiums and lower your insurance costs.
- Ensures Eligibility for Future Permits or Renovations
If you plan to do more renovations in the future, unpermitted past work can delay or block approval for new permits. By getting the proper permit now, you keep your home’s permitting history clean and avoid complications with Broward County’s building department.
Tips to Understand and Simplify Your Impact Window Permit Process in Broward County
In Broward County, the permitting process is a critical step in any impact window installation. With strict enforcement of Florida Building Code (FBC) standards, especially in High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ), understanding and following local requirements is essential to avoid delays, rejections, or costly rework. Here are key tips to help you stay on track:
1. Know Broward’s Local Code Requirements
Before starting your impact window installation, it’s essential to understand Broward County’s permitting rules and building codes. The county lies within Florida’s High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ), which means all installations must meet the state’s strictest structural and safety standards. Overlooking these requirements can delay approvals, rework, or legal issues.
Here are key local regulations and standards to keep in mind:
- Product Approval Requirements: All impact windows must have a valid Florida Product Approval number or Miami-Dade NOA (Notice of Acceptance). These documents verify that the product meets HVHZ testing criteria for wind resistance and debris impact.
- Energy Efficiency Codes: Broward County follows the Florida Building Code, which is aligned with the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). Windows must meet minimum U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) ratings to help reduce energy consumption and improve home efficiency.
- Permit Classification: Impact window installation is considered a major structural work. This means you’ll need to apply for a building permit, not a minor repair permit, through your local city or via ePermitsOneStop.
2. Recognize Wind-Borne Debris Regions
In Broward County, all impact window installations must meet performance standards based on the region’s wind-borne debris classification. The Florida Building Code (FBC) defines these zones, which determine the level of protection required against hurricane-force winds and flying debris.
Here’s a quick breakdown of Florida’s Wind-Borne Debris Regions:
- Wind Zone 1: 100–119 mph wind speeds
- Wind Zone 2: 120–129 mph wind speeds
- Wind Zone 3: 130–139 mph wind speeds
- Wind Zone 4 (HVHZ): 140+ mph wind speeds
In HVHZ areas like Broward, impact windows must be lab-tested and certified to resist wind pressure and direct debris impact. These products must also pass cyclic pressure testing to ensure they won’t fail under repeated wind loads.
Using HVHZ-approved windows is not only required for permit approval but also critical for protecting your home during hurricane season and maintaining eligibility for insurance benefits.
3. Know the Testing Standards for Impact Windows in HVHZs
In Broward County, all impact windows must meet rigorous testing standards before being permitted and installed. As part of the permitting process, you must submit detailed documentation for each window type, including the manufacturer’s name, Florida Product Approval or Miami-Dade NOA, and supporting lab test results.
To be approved for use in HVHZ regions like Broward, impact windows must pass two specific tests:
Large Missile Debris Test
This test simulates the impact of large debris, such as that encountered during a hurricane, striking a window. A 9-pound wooden 2×4 is fired at the window at a speed of 50 feet per second. If the window doesn’t break, it moves on to cyclic pressure testing, where repeated wind pressures simulate the effects of a storm.
Small Missile Debris Test
This test focuses on smaller debris for windows installed 30 feet or higher above the ground. In this test, 2-gram steel balls are launched at the window at 130 feet per second, hitting various points. If the window remains intact, it undergoes cyclic pressure testing to ensure its ability to withstand a storm.
4. Select the Right Impact Windows for Your Broward County Home
Choosing the right impact windows is a crucial decision in Broward County’s permitting and installation process. The correct windows comply with Broward County’s building codes and enhance your home’s storm protection, energy efficiency, and overall curb appeal.
Here are the key factors to consider when selecting impact windows through SafeGuard Impact:
- Material Quality: When selecting impact windows for your Broward County home, consider durability and strength. Aluminum frames offer a sleek, modern look with structural integrity, while vinyl frames provide excellent insulation, energy efficiency, and minimal maintenance for lasting performance.
- Glass Configuration: Laminated or insulated glass improves energy efficiency and soundproofing. Double-glazed windows help maintain indoor temperatures, reduce outside noise, and meet Broward’s energy conservation standards, ensuring comfort while contributing to reduced energy costs.
- Design and Style: Choose window styles that complement your home’s architecture. Whether it’s casement, single-hung, horizontal roller, or picture windows, SafeGuard Impact offers a variety of designs that enhance your home’s visual appeal and improve functionality for properties.
- Code Compliance and Product Approval: Impact windows must have valid Florida Product Approval or Miami-Dade NOA certifications to meet Broward’s strict HVHZ standards. These approvals ensure the windows offer the necessary wind resistance and impact durability, ensuring your home remains protected during a storm.
- Trusted Brands: SafeGuard Impact works with leading manufacturers known for product reliability, durability, and strict adherence to Florida’s building codes. This ensures both long-term performance and peace of mind for homeowners in Broward County.
- Enhanced Security Features: While impact windows naturally resist forced entry, certain models also include multi-point locking systems, reinforced glass, and tamper-resistant hardware for additional home security, ensuring your home is not only storm-proof but also secure.
Selecting the right impact windows in Broward County lays the foundation for a smooth permitting process and a secure, energy-efficient home. SafeGuard Impact provides expert guidance to help you choose windows that meet all the necessary functional, legal, and aesthetic requirements while adhering to Broward’s rigorous standards.
5. Schedule a Professional Inspection
Once your impact windows are installed, the next critical step in Broward County is scheduling an inspection. This inspection ensures that your installation complies with Florida Building Code (FBC) requirements, particularly for structural integrity, wind resistance, and approved product usage.
Passing this inspection confirms that your windows are installed correctly, your permit remains valid, and your home meets Broward’s safety standards. It also provides peace of mind by identifying potential issues early before they become costly problems.
To ensure a smooth and successful inspection, follow these tips:
- Organize Your Documentation for Easy Access: Inspectors will need to review essential documents such as your permit card, installation plans, Florida Product Approval, or Miami-Dade NOA. Make sure everything is neatly organized and readily available for review.
- Provide Clear Access to All Installed Windows: Ensure the inspector can easily access both the interior and exterior of each installed window. Move any obstacles or furniture and provide access points for any windows that need ladders or special equipment for a complete inspection.
- Request Installer to Come: If possible, have your licensed contractor or installer present during the inspection. Their presence can help clarify technical details or answer the inspector’s questions, making the process smoother and quicker.
- Address Any Corrections Promptly: If the inspector finds any issues with the installation, they will issue a correction notice. Be sure to promptly address the flagged issues and reschedule the follow-up inspection to keep your permit valid.
In Broward County, you must pass at least one inspection within 180 days of permit issuance to keep your permit active. Staying organized and proactive ensures your project stays on track and compliant.
Important FAQ’s
Q1: How much does a permit for impact windows cost in Broward County?
Permit fees are based on the project’s total value. Most cities within Broward County charge a base fee plus a percentage of the total job cost. An upfront fee, typically 20% of the total permit cost, is due upon application submission. Additional charges may apply for plan reviews, re-inspections, or expedited processing.
Q2: How long does it take to get a permit for impact window installation in Broward County?
Permit approval times in Broward County can vary depending on project complexity and the current workload of the county’s building department. However, as stated in Florida Building Code Section 105.3.1, Broward County typically aims to review permit applications within 30 working days.
To avoid delays, ensure your application is complete and accurate. This permit includes providing all necessary documents, such as building plans, product approvals (Florida Product Approval or Miami-Dade NOA), and contractor information. Incomplete or incorrect submissions may lead to extended review periods and additional delays.
Q3: Are inspections required after installation in Broward County?
Yes. At least one inspection is required to confirm that your impact window installation complies with Broward County’s building codes. To keep the permit active, your installation must pass this inspection within 180 days of the permit being issued.
Q4: How long is my permit valid in Broward County?
Permits remain valid as long as an approved inspection is completed within 180 days of issuance or the last inspection. If the inspection is not completed within that period, the permit may expire, and you may need to reapply for a new permit.
Q5: Can I renew my impact window permit in Broward County?
Yes, you can renew your permit once in Broward County. If you need more time to complete your impact window installation, a single renewal is allowed.
- Before the permit expires: You’ll pay 50% of the original permit fee for renewal.
- After the permit expires: Renewal will cost 100% of the original permit fee.
Beyond one renewal, the building official has the discretion to extend any further extensions. Be sure to keep track of your permit’s timeline and apply for renewal early to avoid higher fees and project delays.
Q6: Do I need a permit to replace existing windows with impact windows in Broward County?
Yes, if you’re replacing old windows with impact-rated ones, you must obtain a permit in Broward County. Window replacement is considered a structural upgrade, which must meet the Florida Building Code standards. Permits ensure the proper installation of your windows, compliance with product approvals, and safety during hurricane seasons. Skipping this step can result in fines, inspection failures, or denied insurance claims.
