SARASOTA LAW
SARASOTA LAW

Condominiums and High-Rise Regulations in Sarasota

    Condominiums and high-rises in Sarasota, highly sought after for residential and mixed-use developments, are governed by stringent regulations that prioritize safety, structural integrity, and legal compliance. This page outlines essential requirements such as building codes, milestone inspections, and HOA governance, while also addressing recent legislative updates that impact both new and existing communities. Developers must navigate permitting and construction standards designed to withstand Florida’s coastal conditions, while associations are responsible for ongoing maintenance, reserve funding, and disclosure obligations. For property owners, understanding these laws ensures protection of investment, smoother transactions, and long-term community stability.

    Building Codes and Inspections

    The 2023 FBC governs condo and high-rise construction, requiring:

    Structural Safety

    Wind-resistant designs for hurricanes.

    Fire Protection

    Sprinkler systems and fire-resistant materials.

    Accessibility

    ADA-compliant units and common areas.
    Building Codes and Inspections
    Milestone inspections, mandatory for condos three stories or taller since May 26, 2022, and expanded January 1, 2025, require licensed architects or engineers to assess structural integrity, per Sarasota County.

    HOA and Condo Regulations

    Condo associations are governed by Florida Statutes Chapter 718, requiring:
    HOA and Condo Regulations

    Transparent governance and financial reporting.

    Enforcement of rules across common areas.

    Developer-HOA transitions, per South Florida Law.

    Recent Laws

    Condo associations are governed by Florida Statutes Chapter 718, requiring:

    Live Local Act

    Allows condo developments in commercial zones with affordable housing, per Florida Statutes Section 166.04151(7).

    Asbestos Surveys

    Required before renovations, per Sarasota County Code, Chapter 54, Article V.
    Recent Laws

    Practical Tips

    Schedule Inspections

    Plan milestone inspections early, per City of Sarasota.

    Review HOA Rules

    Check Florida Statutes for compliance.

    Hire Licensed Professionals

    Verify at DBPR.

    Conduct Surveys

    Ensure asbestos compliance before renovations.
    Practical Tips

    FAQs

    What are milestone inspections?

    Structural assessments for condos three stories or taller.

    What governs condo HOAs?

    Florida Statutes Chapter 718.

    Is the Live Local Act relevant?

    Yes, for affordable housing condos.