What the National Weather Service recorded
The National Weather Service office in Miami published a post tropical cyclone report on Hurricane Ian, with a file date of October 24, 2022 and a note that the data are preliminary. It says Ian made landfall at Cayo Costa in Lee County as a category 4 hurricane around 3 PM on September 28, 2022. For Collier County it reports that extensive storm surge flooding covered most areas south and west of US 41, the Tamiami Trail, and the areas near the Gordon River, the Cocohatchee River and connecting creeks and canals. It also reports hurricane force winds in the western part of the county.
| Measurement in the report | Value |
|---|---|
| Naples Pier tide gauge, water level above mean higher high water (data marked incomplete) | 6.18 ft |
| Highest wind gust listed at Naples Grand Beach Resort (Earth Networks station) | 112 mph |
| Highest gust listed at Naples Airport Tower (Earth Networks station) | 105 mph |
Source: NWS Miami, Post Tropical Cyclone Report, Hurricane Ian, read November 6, 2026. Press reports gave different surge figures because they measure different things, so we use only this report.
Which building code applies
Florida's building code sets the wind and structural rules for permits. The 8th Edition (2023) took effect on December 31, 2023. The Florida Building Commission's October 2026 workplan lists December 31, 2026 as the effective date of the 9th Edition (2026), six months after publication, with some final steps still marked as pending. Whether an application filed near that date falls under the old or new edition is a question for the permit office. The City of Naples says applications filed on or after December 31, 2023 follow the 8th Edition.
Source: Florida Building Commission, 9th Edition (2026) FBC update workplan, October 2026, read November 6, 2026.
After a storm
Collier County's floodplain page says building permits for repairs may be required and tells owners to check with the Building Review Division before starting repairs. See the flood zone guide for the county's map and hotline.
Questions to ask a builder
- Which edition of the Florida Building Code will my plans follow, and what happens if the edition changes while the permit is open?
- What loose items, such as furniture or screen features, should I secure or remove before a storm?
- If a storm floods my lot, what is the plan for equipment and for checking the pool before use?
These are questions to put in writing, not rules. Ask the building department about any pool-specific storm requirements. Your insurance policy and your association's hurricane protection specifications may add requirements. The HOA guide covers that statute.
Frequently asked questions
Does a pool need a new permit to repair storm damage?
Collier County's floodplain page says building permits for repairs may be required and tells owners to check with the Building Review Division before starting any repairs. Ask before you hire anyone to fix pool structures or equipment.
Which building code applies to a new pool now?
The 8th Edition (2023) Florida Building Code has been in effect since December 31, 2023. The Florida Building Commission's October 2026 workplan lists December 31, 2026 as the effective date of the 9th Edition (2026), and also shows some steps still pending. The City of Naples building page confirms the 8th Edition has applied since December 31, 2023. Ask the permit office which edition your application falls under.