Building Officials Association of Florida
Protecting Lives and Property since 1953

Interpretation #9558

Published July 28, 2026

Download Final PDF

Original Request

Code Version
2023
Code
BUILDING
Code Description
Chapter
Section
Section 1609.1.2 "Protection of openings. Exceptions"
Topic
Wood Structural Panels as hurricane shutters

Question

Can 7/16ths inch plywood and OSB be used as hurricane shutter panel both in, and out, of the HVHZ if properly installed according to Section 1609.1.2 "Protection of openings. Exceptions"?

Answer Published 07/20/2026 at 8:32 AM

Maybe. For areas outside of the HVHZ, the correct reference for a structure designed under the Florida Building Code - Residential volume is R301.2.1.2. This section provides the requirements for protection of openings. For the HVHZ, when referring to Chapter 44 of the FBC-R, there are numerous references to the FBC-B, including chapter 16 for structural loads. Both volumes contain the allowance for properly installed wood panels for opening protection.

Commentary

None.