This bill amends Florida's construction regulations, particularly for public works and commercial projects. It introduces a new section, 255.0994, which prohibits governmental entities from enforcing contract provisions that limit a contractor's rights to compensation or time extensions for delays caused by the entity or its agents. The bill also defines "commercial construction project" and mandates the Florida Building Commission to establish uniform commercial building permit acceptance standards by December 31, 2026. Local enforcement agencies must accept applications that meet these standards and can only request additional documentation when necessary. Additionally, permit fees must reflect actual costs incurred by local agencies and cannot be based on industry standards, while political subdivisions are restricted from imposing glazing requirements exceeding 15% of the primary facade's surface area for new projects.

Moreover, the bill sets new regulations for nonresidential buildings in flood zones, requiring structures built after July 1, 2026, to elevate their lowest floor above the design flood elevation or be designed to withstand flood-related forces if built below this elevation. It also includes "mitigation products" in the construction products requiring statewide approval to ensure compliance with the Florida Building Code. The Florida Building Commission is tasked with incorporating specific standards from the National Electrical Code regarding pool construction into the Florida Building Code by December 31, 2026. Lastly, the language regarding mausoleum standards is updated to emphasize the requirement for local agencies to adopt and enforce these standards. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 526 Filed: 553.842
S 526 c1: 553.791, 553.842, 497.271, 553.902