Comprehensive guide to state-specific wind load requirements, PE seal regulations, HVHZ zones, and ASCE 7 standards across all 50 US states
Coastal states face hurricane threats with wind speeds exceeding 170 mph, while inland regions deal with severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. These geographic differences necessitate tailored building codes and engineering standards.
States adopt specific editions of ASCE 7 standards (ASCE 7-10, 7-16, or 7-22) with jurisdictions implementing additional requirements for high-wind zones. Understanding your state's edition is crucial for code compliance.
Professional Engineers must seal calculations in many states, particularly for commercial buildings and high-wind areas. HVHZ zones in Florida, Texas, and Hawaii have the most stringent certification requirements.
Compare wind load requirements, PE seal regulations, and special designations across states
| Category | States | PE Seal Required | Nominal Pressures Allowed | Special Designation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mandatory States (10) | FL, TX, HI, LA, NC, SC, GA, VA, NY, CA | ✓ Required by Law | ✗ Not Allowed | PE-Sealed Required |
| HVHZ States (3) | Florida, Texas (coastal), Hawaii | ✓ Always Required | ✗ Not Allowed | High Velocity Hurricane Zone |
| Solar Belt (12) | CA, TX, FL, NC, AZ, NV, GA, NJ, CO, VA... | ✓ Varies by State | ✓ Per Manufacturer | Top Solar States |
| Tornado Alley (7+) | OK, KS, NE, IA, MO, AR, TX (north) | ✓ Commercial Required | ✓ Simple Structures | Severe Weather Zone |
| Voluntary States (40) | All other states | ✓ Commercial Only | ✓ Widely Accepted | Standard Requirements |
These are the only 10 US states that legally require PE-sealed wind load calculations for building permits
View Complete Mandatory States GuideMost Stringent Requirements in the Nation
Coastal HVHZ and Inland Requirements
Island Exposure and Hurricane Risk
Hurricane Prone Atlantic Coast
Hurricane and Tropical Storm Exposure
Gulf Coast Hurricane Zone
Coastal Exposure and High-Rise Requirements
Atlantic Coast and Chesapeake Bay
Coastal Hurricane Risk Zone
Coastal and Mountain Wind Exposure
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