It is my understanding that certain structures and occupancy types in the state of Florida are required to have a lightning protection system installed. Here is a quote from a lightning protection website,

Where is this referenced in the FBC or Administrative Code?

I might be wrong but I thought it was State Statute.

I might be wrong but I think that only hospitals and certain health care facilities require it per FBC. Don't have time to look it up at the moment.

I do remember inspecting a VA clinic a few years back and they had to have it.

Yes it is in the Florida Building Code.

The problem is that all of the electrical requirements for the Florida Building Code are not in one place. They are interspersed throughout each and every chapter.

For the lighting protection requirement, you would have to go to Chapter 4, then based upon what type of building it is, look for the requirement.

For instance if I have a nursing home, I would go to section 420 - Nursing homes. Then I would find in 420.3.26 Lightning Protection

420.3.26.1 A lightning protection system shall be provided for all new buildings and additions in accordance with NFPA 780.


So yes, they are required, but you have to look up separately for each type building to make sure.

Thanks Nick.

I poked around in Chapter 4 but didn't see anything.