Question for Florida Designers

[Adam_Gibson]

I've been asked to design a kitchen in Wellington. It requires removing a non-bearing wall and cutting the slab to move plumbing. I've been told that it will need an architect or engineer stamp. Here in Indiana that is not necessary. Can anyone shed light on what the requirements may be?

[TheKitchenAbode]

Would not surprise me. In Ontario Canada a permit would be required to remove that non -Loadbearing wall. All walls are now considered as part of the structure and any modification to the structure requires a permit. Though the wall is non-loadbearing it does contribute to the rigidity of the structure which is extremely important under high wind loads. 

[mtldesigns]

Hi Adam,

 

Where I lived before in Missouri, it wouldn't be required either.  BUT here in FL.,  You will need that second set of eyes and that stamp, even though its not load bearing structure it still structure and could affect a high wind event. 

[Adam_Gibson]

That makes sense. But I wonder if solely an engineer's stamp is sufficient, or if I need to engage an architect as well.

[mtldesigns]

My engineer tells me that if its residential, an engineer is all you need.  When I do light commercial, I need both.  Hasn't got me in any trouble, so it must be true. 

[Adam_Gibson]

That's good to hear!