As your Mayor, Miami Dade County has continued the commitment to supporting broad-based and durable economic growth. Central to our efforts, such as Thrive 305, is creating a local economy that works for all residents and local businesses. We know that a local economy where small businesses can grow translates into more jobs and services for our entire community.
The Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources, Board and Code Administration Division (BCAD) plays a role in ensuring that we connect our customers to critical business resources. Thousands of our residents have and can continue to grow their construction trade professions and businesses by pursuing local contractor licensing through application processing services provided by BCAD’s Contractor Licensing Section. The services provided by the section directly support the continued growth of small businesses with easy access to resources and opportunities.
This edition of Cornerstone highlights how being a locally licensed contractor offers a wide range of benefits and a personal investment in one’s future success. Learn more in this issue about the convenient application process administered by the Contractor Licensing Section, which is designed to provide features like flexible trade examination schedules and contractor examinations offered in multiple languages. Application processes that incorporate these types of options ensure that residents are not just surviving but thriving in a competitive market. The licensing process strengthens and transforms the capacity of local businesses, creating a foundation for their long-term prosperity and providing valuable and quality construction services to the local community. A thriving economy that works for everyone!
Daniella Levine Cava
Becoming a Licensed Contractor comes with Added Benefits
You may be aware that it’s illegal to work in the construction trades without the required license, but did you know of the added benefits of being a licensed contractor in Miami-Dade?
Being licensed through RER's Board and Code Administration Division makes you the preferred choice for clients who have the peace of mind of knowing you possess the necessary training for the job. Licensed contractors are the trusted source as experts who can avoid citations and fees by adhering to Miami-Dade's County's building standards.
Other benefits
Advertise with confidence
You can promote your services and attract new customers without fear of violating the law.
No need to conceal activity
Licensed contractors don’t have to work after hours or on weekends to avoid code enforcement activity.
Ability to obtain a permit
Application by a licensed contractor may be required for the issuance of permits.
Demonstrates your expertise
Holding a contractor license indicates that you have demonstrated the appropriate minimum knowledge level in the field.
Miami-Dade County Code Chapter 10 and Florida Statute Chapter 489 require construction contractors to be licensed in certain trades and fields. Being licensed tells your customers that you are a true professional—knowledgeable, responsible, accountable and credible in the construction trade. Read more about the five major categories and licenses we offer: Contractor License Information.
RER makes the Contractor Licensing Application Process Hassle-Free
Miami-Dade RER makes obtaining a contractor license within reach, with just a few steps and a convenient application process.
• Submit your application for a trade or contractor licensing category to the Contractor Licensing Section for processing. Staff will then forward the application to the Miami-Dade Construction Trades Qualifying Board Division A or B for consideration.
• Once the application is approved by the board, if the category you are applying for is an examination category, you will receive further instructions on how to schedule the exam for the Certificate of Competency and Eligibility.
Did you know?
• Exams can be scheduled at your convenience.
• Exams are open book and the list of books is provided at the time you request an application.
The integrated draft of the 9th Edition (2026) Florida Building Code (FBC) was posted online on May 22, 2026, marking a significant milestone in Florida’s triennial code update process. The code development cycle has progressed through the public comment phase, and a hearing to consider the feedback received has been completed. Upcoming milestones include the Final Rule Hearing, where the Florida Building Commission will consider approval of the final code package. This will be followed by submission of the rule to the Secretary of State and publication of the integrated code and supplements, subject to resolution of all Joint Administrative Procedures Committee (JAPC) comments. The final PDF version of the 2026 FBC and printed code editions are anticipated later this year. Pursuant to Florida Statute 553.73(7)(e), the updated code becomes effective no sooner than six months after publication, with the anticipated effective date remaining December 31, 2026.
Among the noteworthy changes in the 9th Edition are updates affecting Florida’s High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) including: revisions to roofing application and testing standards, expanded performance-based requirements for roof tile systems, updated underlayment uplift resistance criteria, and enhanced product approval requirements for roofing assemblies. The code also incorporates updated wind-load provisions based on ASCE 7-22, revised hurricane-resistance requirements, a new flood resistance testing protocol, and modifications to HVHZ test protocols intended to improve consistency between product testing, installation standards, and real world storm performance. These changes continue Miami-Dade County’s commitment to strengthening building resilience and protecting life and property in the HVHZ.
On the Calendar
BOARD OF RULES AND APPEALS:
Oct. 15 at 1 p.m.
Nov. 19 at 1 p.m.
Dec.10 at 1 p.m.
CONSTRUCTION TRADES QUALIFYING BOARD DIVISION A (CTQB-A):
Oct. 28 at 9 a.m.
Nov. 17 at 9 a.m.
Dec. 16 at 9 a.m.
CONSTRUCTION TRADES QUALIFYING BOARD DIVISION B (CTQB-B):
Oct. 6 at 10 a.m.
Nov. 3 at 10 a.m.
Dec. 1 at 10 a.m.
UNSAFE STRUCTURES BOARD (USSB):
Oct. 14 at 1 p.m.
Nov. 18 at 1 p.m.
Dec. 9 at 1 p.m.
Meetings are held at the Stephen P. Clark Government Center, 111 NW 1st Street, 18th Floor, Conference Room 18-3, Miami, Florida, 33128.
Establishing Construction Industry Safeguards
The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) is playing a vital role in the construction industry by dramatically enhancing productivity and efficiency, but it is also important to understand the potential risks.
For construction companies, staying on schedule is critical. Meeting contract deadlines, minimizing time on-site to reduce safety hazards, and keeping work organized all depend on timely execution. Well established technology safeguards are key to protecting these operations. Below are some key takeaways:
• Cyber Education: Train employees to identify phishing attempts and to practice safe habits, not opening unknown or suspicious email links.
• Financial Controls: Establish a “callback” policy requiring verbal verification of any banking detail changes to prevent fraudulent wire transfers or unauthorized charges.
• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Implement MFA to mitigate the risks of online cyberattacks.
• Incident Response Plan: Develop an incident response strategy and train your team on who to contact in the event of a cyberattack.
A cyberattack can bring your operations to a standstill. Establishing safeguards and security awareness training can assist in reducing any potential security breaches.
Nevertheless, if a breach of your technology systems or operations occurs, immediately notify your cybersecurity firm (if any), financial institutions and partners to minimize the impact of the attack.
From Sunshine to Savings; the Rise of Plug-in Solar Panels
Going solar historically meant owning a home, hiring an installer and paying thousands of dollars. If you rented or didn’t have the right roof, going solar wasn’t an option. That’s starting to change with the rise of plug-in solar panels.
Plug-in solar panels allow anyone with a sunny balcony, patio or yard to generate their own electricity. The setup is straightforward: one or three lightweight solar panels attach with a railing or wall mount. All you must do is plug in the panels directly into a standard wall outlet and the solar electricity flows directly into your home’s circuit–immediately reducing the amount of power you pull from the grid. A basic plug-in solar kit runs $500 to $1,500, depending on wattage and whether it includes a battery.
Unlike with rooftop solar systems, don’t expect to eliminate your electric bill with plug-in solar panels. The savings depend on how much sun your panels receive and local electricity rates. But the savings can still be meaningful—typically somewhere between $13 and $50 per month. Plug-in solar systems are typically just powerful enough to offset the baseline electricity that your “always-on” appliances consume around the clock— the refrigerator, Wi-Fi router and standby electronics.
Although easy to install, and inexpensive compared to traditional panels, plug-in panels pose their own challenges and safety risks. Unlike traditional systems, which are bolted to a homeowner’s roof, plug-ins present a safety concern because they’re easily accessible to people not accustomed to handling electricity-generating appliances.
Some electric utilities have also pushed back against the use of plug-ins. They’ve raised concerns that during an outage, a panel could continue generating electricity and send the power through a home’s wiring and back out on the grid, where it could endanger a line worker.
For the panels to become more widely available in the U.S., state lawmakers are proposing bills that eliminate complicated utility-connection agreements, which are required for larger rooftop solar installations. Most utilities argue these requirements should apply to plug-ins as well. A handful of states have now passed clear legislation, and a wave of others are moving quickly.
In states without enabling legislation, plug-in solar isn’t necessarily banned, but utilities often treat even a single plug-in panel the same as a large rooftop array. Leases and HOA agreements can also restrict exterior modifications even where state law doesn’t. Renters also need to check their lease and HOA’s. Turning sunshine to savings can be an additional option with plug-in solar panels.
Upcoming Building Officials Meeting Dates
The Miami-Dade Building Officials meetings were established with the intent of promoting uniformity in the enforcement of the Building Code throughout all incorporated and unincorporated areas of Miami-Dade County. Board and Code Administration Division staff conduct these meetings monthly with the 35 municipal Building Officials and their representatives; they serve as a forum for maintaining open communication between the County and the various municipal building departments. Staff presents topics of interest, with a format that allows for open discussion of relative building code issues.
Meetings are hosted by Board and Code Administration Division, Stephen P. Clark Center, 111 NW 1st Street, 12th Floor, Miami, FL 33128.
Your Notice of Acceptance is Expiring Soon—Act Now
The Notice of Acceptance (NOA) for building products are issued by Miami-Dade County and viewed by many as the benchmark for safety. This construction product approval standard is recognized and accepted across the U.S and internationally.
Manufacturers should act now and not let their NOA lapse.
Contact RER’s Board and Code Administration’s Product Control Section to commence the renewal process.
Notice to All NOA Holders: FBC 9th Edition (2026) Code Update
The Florida Building Code (FBC) 9th Edition (2026) becomes effective on December 31, 2026. Miami-Dade County is now accepting applications to update Notices of Acceptance (NOAs) for compliance with the new code requirements. Building permit applications submitted on or after the effective date must demonstrate compliance with the 2026 FBC; therefore, NOAs should be updated by that date to avoid potential rejection during permit review.
Two update options are available. If code changes affect the approved product, a standard NOA revision application must be submitted with supporting documentation demonstrating compliance. The standard revision fee applies. If the product is unaffected by the new code and only references to the 2023 FBC on drawings or evidence pages need updating, a Special Services application may be submitted. This option is limited to updating code references only and is billed at the hourly Special Services rate.
Many might assume that tourism and agriculture are the primary drivers of Florida’s economy, while not realizing that manufacturing surpasses both those industries. Manufacturing plays an essential role in Florida’s workforce. It’s an $86.6 billion industry that ranks sixth in the nation in terms of the value of exported manufactured goods, employing more than 434,000 workers.
Although the manufacturing industry is a highly productive economic driver, it’s facing a fast-approaching crisis in the form of an aging workforce. More than half of its workers are 45 years of age or older. Recruiting a new generation of workers before it’s too late is essential to address this issue.
The manufacturing industry is notable for its high-wage potential without some barriers presented by requiring advanced degrees. With an $87,000 average annual salary, the industry has a high-earning opportunity for those who don’t wish to go down the path of traditional educational avenues. Additionally, manufacturing work conditions have improved from the assembly lines of the past.
Florida’s Job Growth Grant Fund has recently made significant investments in Indian River State College and Miami-Dade College that will allow them to purchase equipment necessary for manufacturing and other vocational education. These training programs, along with consistent support is key to restoring the manufacturing pipeline.
Highlighting the manufacturing industry’s high-wage potential, better working conditions and strengthening job programs can offer some potential solutions to recruit new workers.
The Florida Building Code and NFPA work Together to Enhance Fire Safety
The Florida Building Code (FBC) and the standards established by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) work together to regulate construction and fire safety throughout Florida. While the FBC primarily governs building design and construction, the state incorporates NFPA codes with Florida specific modifications to address fire protection, life safety and electrical system requirements.
In matters of structural fire protection, such as fire walls and smoke barriers, the FBC references NFPA standards to determine construction classifications and fire resistance requirements. The National Fire Protection Association codes and standards shape and protect our homes and all the buildings around us. NFPA develops roughly 300 codes and standards that serve at the foundation for fire, electrical and life safety.
One daily visible safeguard is exit signs in the buildings we navigate through every day. These exit signs must be strategically placed according to the FBC and NFPA. The placement, illumination, and visibility of these exit signs ensures a visible route to exit a building in case of an emergency.
Other safeguards, such as fire doors, are also specifically located to block the spread of flames and smoke. Fire doors in hospitals, nursing homes and clinics are designed to stop the spread of fire and smoke. This gives occupants with limited mobility more time to evacuate and firefighters more time to respond.
The National Fire Protection Association standards shape nearly every part of modern life. The buildings where we live and work, the systems that power them, and even the procedures emergency responders follow during a crisis are all influenced by NFPA. These standards, along with the Florida Building Code standards, work together to improve overall fire safety.
Cornerstone Staff
Jaime D. Gascon, P.E.
Director, Board and Code Administration Division
Kathy Charles
Board Administrator
Marielys Blanco
Editor
Stay informed
Discover what's new
Learn the latest on building codes, contractor licensing updates and much more...
