Building on the Texas coast? Start with the windstorm code change.
Texas changed the code standard for windstorm certification applications on April 1, 2026. Here is the state record behind it.
Read the explainerFROM COASTAL TEXAS TO THE FLORIDA PANHANDLEThe Gulf South,
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Open the sourcebook ↗Guides for life on the Gulf
6 guides and explainers. Sources checked November 13, 2026.
Coastal Texas01
Explainer / Housing & insuranceBuilding on the Texas coast? Start with the windstorm code change.
The Texas Department of Insurance says applications starting April 1, 2026 must follow the 2024 International Residential Code or International Building Code. The designated coastal catastrophe areas did not change.
Source: Texas Department of Insurance ↗Checked Nov. 13
Louisiana coast02
Explainer / Coast & public moneyThe coast has a plan. Read the record behind the projects.
CPRA provides the plan, technical appendices, data tools, and summaries in English, French, Spanish, and Vietnamese. The agency describes it as a legislatively approved guide for coastal investment.
Mississippi coast03
Guide / Life on the coastA starting point for exploring Mississippi’s coastal preserves.
Mississippi’s Department of Marine Resources publishes preserve information, a trails map, and a public-access map. Listed trail systems include Gautier, Biloxi, Hancock County, Pass Christian, and Ocean Springs.
Source: Mississippi Department of Marine Resources ↗Checked Nov. 13
Mobile & Baldwin counties04
Guide / Life on the coastFind your coastal Alabama boat launch before you leave home.
Alabama’s conservation department provides an interactive map, launch listings, and a GPS download. Listings include access points around Mobile, Dauphin Island, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach.
Florida Panhandle05
Guide / Weather readinessKnow where to find your Panhandle evacuation zone.
Florida’s Division of Emergency Management offers evacuation-zone lookup and county route maps, including links for Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, Bay, Gulf, and Franklin counties.
Source: Florida Division of Emergency Management ↗Checked Nov. 13
Coastal Texas06
Guide / Housing & insuranceDoes your coastal homeowners policy include wind and hail?
TDI says some coastal properties need a separate windstorm policy. TWIA is one possible provider, subject to eligibility. The department also offers a coastal consumer-assistance resource.
Source: Texas Department of Insurance ↗Checked Nov. 13
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