Manufactured Homes

Pinellas County probably has one of the highest concentration of manufactured homes in the State of Florida. Because of its geographic location of the county it is susceptible to hurricanes. Therefore certain regulations must be adhere to. The following is a list of commonly asked questions as well as a few illustration on proper setup of a manufactured home located within a flood high hazard area.

1. Will a new manufactured home be required to be tied down?
   Yes, all manufactured homes are required to be anchored in accordance with the the State of Florida, Department of Motor Vehicles, Bureau of Mobile Homes 15C-1 and 15C-2.
2. May I move a manufactured home into Pinellas County from another state?
   Yes, if the manufactures data plate indicated that the home was built to meet WIND ZONE 3 standards, or if the manufactured home is certified by a structural engineer to meet WIND ZONE 3 standard and EXPOSURE C.
3. How high must a manufactured home be elevated above grade?
   The Pinellas County Building Department follows the State of Florida, Department of Motor Vehicles rules 15C-1, (1) (h), which stats that a distance of eighteen (18) inches from finished grade to the bottom of the I-beam with no more than twenty-five (25) per cent less than the required eighteen (18) inches. Under no circumstances may the distance be less than twelve (12) inches from finished grade.
4. What type of material may I use to setup a manufactured home?
   A list of approved materials is available from the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Division of Motor Vehicles, Bureau of Mobile Homes and Recreational Vehicle Construction. The telephone number is (850) 413-7600 or their web site is www.Hsmv.stste.fl.us.
5. Will an existing manufactured home be required to have hurricane anchors?
   An existing manufactured home that is permanently set-up is not required to upgrade or install new hurricane anchors, however, Pinellas County recommends that owners consider inspection, replacement or retrofitting hurricane anchors and straps as close as possible to the existing tie-down code.
6. Are the minimum set-up height and materials approved throughout Pinellas County?
   No, you will be required to meet a more specific standard if your new manufactured home is located in a flood zone. You will be required to have the home elevated to the required base flood elevation as set forth by the Federal Insurance Rate Maps. The foundation piers must be reinforced concrete as shown in the following examples.

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Last Updated October 22, 2002