Understanding FL Product Approval Numbers

Florida's statewide product certification system. Every window, door, and shutter installed in Florida needs an FL number to prove it can handle our wind loads.

// Florida Building Commission Product Approval System
$
FL
Prefix
28547
Product ID
-
R3
Revision

Product Categories

FL approvals cover different product types with specific wind load testing requirements.

Windows

FL#####-R#

Impact and non-impact rated windows tested per ASTM E1886/E1996 for wind pressure and debris impact.

Windows must meet positive and negative pressure requirements based on ASCE 7-22 wind maps. Typical ratings: DP-40 to DP-75 PSF.

Entry Doors

FL#####-R#

Hinged entry systems including sidelites and transoms, tested as complete assemblies.

Entry door systems require complete assembly testing including hardware, weatherstripping, and all glazing components for accurate wind load certification.

Sliding Doors

FL#####-R#

Multi-panel sliding and lift-slide systems with track reinforcement requirements.

Sliding systems must demonstrate track anchorage and panel interlock integrity under cyclic pressure testing at 1.5x design pressure.

Shutters

FL#####-R#

Hurricane shutters including accordion, roll-down, Bahama, and colonial styles.

Shutters provide opening protection without replacing windows. Must cover complete opening and be tested for the protected product's pressure rating.

FL Approval vs Miami-Dade NOA

Understanding when you need which certification for your wind load requirements.

Requirement
FL Approval
Miami-Dade NOA
Statewide Florida (non-HVHZ)
Yes
Yes
High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ)
No
Yes
Large Missile Impact Testing
Optional
Required
Design Pressure (Typical Max)
Up to DP-65
Up to DP-100+
Wind Speed Rating
Up to 170 mph
180+ mph
Cyclic Pressure Testing
Yes
Yes (Stricter)
Validity Period
7 Years
7 Years

How to Verify FL Approval

Always verify product approvals before specifying for permit submissions.

1

Locate FL Number

Find the FL product approval number on product labels, specification sheets, or manufacturer documentation. Format: FL#####-R#

2

Visit Product Approval Website

Go to the Florida Building Commission's official product approval search system.

floridabuilding.org/pr/pr_app_srch.aspx
3

Search by FL Number

Enter the complete FL number including revision. The system will show the full approval document with all tested configurations.

4

Review Approval Details

Check the design pressure ratings, tested sizes, installation requirements, and expiration date. Ensure values meet your wind load calculations.

5

Confirm Active Status

Verify the approval hasn't expired and the product line hasn't been withdrawn. Only active approvals are valid for permit applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about FL product approval numbers.

What is an FL product approval number?
+
An FL product approval number is Florida's statewide certification that a building product meets Florida Building Code requirements for structural performance, wind loads, and water infiltration. Required for all fenestration products installed in Florida.
How do I read an FL number?
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FL numbers follow the format FL#####-R# where FL is the prefix, the 5-digit number is the product ID, and R# indicates the revision number. For example, FL28547-R3 means product approval #28547, revision 3.
What's the difference between FL approval and Miami-Dade NOA?
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FL approval covers all of Florida except HVHZ areas. Miami-Dade NOA is required for High Velocity Hurricane Zones with stricter impact testing. Products with NOA automatically qualify for FL approval, but not vice versa.
Do FL approvals expire?
+
Yes, FL product approvals are valid for 7 years from approval date. Products must be re-evaluated and approved before expiration. Always verify current status before specifying products for permit applications.
Can I use an FL-approved product in Miami-Dade County?
+
Only in non-HVHZ areas of Miami-Dade. For High Velocity Hurricane Zones, you must use products with Miami-Dade NOA certification, which requires additional large missile impact testing and higher pressure ratings.

Calculate Your Wind Load Requirements

Match FL-approved products to your exact pressure requirements with instant calculations.