Florida is in an active product-approval transition ahead of the 9th Edition (2026) Florida Building Code, which is scheduled to become effective December 31, 2026.
That makes one detail especially important when reviewing impact windows and doors: the status shown in the Florida Product Approval database.
Approved, Pending FBC Approval, and Code Version 2026 are not interchangeable.
What does “Code Version 2026” mean?
The code-version field tells you which Florida Building Code edition the application is being evaluated against.
In late 2026, manufacturers are submitting new applications, revisions and affirmations for the 9th Edition.
The Florida Building Commission has specifically addressed the need for manufacturers to demonstrate that existing product approvals comply with the new edition before the December 31 transition.
What does “Approved” mean?
An approved state product application has completed the applicable approval process for that record.
For a homeowner or contractor, that still does not mean the product is automatically correct for every opening.
You must also verify:
- Exact model or series
- Impact classification
- HVHZ eligibility where applicable
- Maximum size
- Positive and negative design pressure
- Glass configuration
- Anchorage
- Substrate
- Limits of use
- Installation instructions
See our Florida Product Approval guide for the broader checklist.
What does “Pending FBC Approval” mean?
It means the application has not yet reached final approval status.
Current Florida Building Commission records show many 2026-code window and door applications in pending status while others have already been approved.
Do not treat a pending application as if it were an approved product record.
For a permit, use the approval status and code edition accepted by the authority having jurisdiction for the actual project.
Can the same FL number have different revisions?
Yes.
Florida Product Approval records can have multiple revisions over time.
A revision can reflect:
- New code edition
- Updated standards
- New sizes
- New installation drawings
- Product changes
- Engineering updates
- Editorial corrections
That means writing down only the base FL number is not always enough.
The revision and current application status matter.
What happens on December 31, 2026?
The Florida Building Commission’s current workplan identifies December 31, 2026 as the effective date of the 9th Edition Florida Building Code.
Permit timing can affect which code edition applies.
Do not assume that a project permitted before and after that date will always be reviewed identically.
Confirm the applicable code with the building department.
Why is this relevant right now?
The Commission’s current product database shows active 2026-code filings for windows, doors, curtain walls and other exterior systems.
Some records have already been approved.
Others are pending.
For example, recent October 2026 window records show both newly approved and pending revisions under Code Version 2026.
That is why a screenshot or old PDF from earlier in the year should not be the final verification step.
What should be checked before ordering?
Ask for:
- Exact FL approval number and revision
- Current application status
- Code version
- Product model
- Impact classification
- HVHZ status if applicable
- Size limits
- Design-pressure limits
- Installation instructions
- Permit-authority acceptance for the actual project
Frequently asked questions
Does “Pending FBC Approval” mean the product is approved?
No. Pending is not the same as final approved status.
Does a 2023 approval automatically work under the 2026 code?
Do not assume so. Manufacturers are updating and affirming approvals for the 9th Edition transition.
When does the 9th Edition Florida Building Code take effect?
The current Florida Building Commission workplan identifies December 31, 2026.
Can a permit use an older code edition?
Permit timing and applicable law determine the code edition. Confirm with the permitting authority.
Authoritative sources
- Florida Building Commission — Code Resources
- Florida Building Commission — June 2026 Product Approval POC Summary
- Florida Statutes §553.842 — Product Approval
- Florida DBPR — Building Codes and Standards FAQs
The bottom line
During the 2026 code transition, verify the current approval record, not just the manufacturer name or FL number.
AA Glass & Windows can help review impact-window and door approval documentation before ordering. Request a free estimate to discuss your project.
