Modular homes—factory-built structures assembled on-site—are revolutionizing housing with speed, efficiency, and sustainability. But navigating the regulatory landscape can be complex, especially when requirements vary by state. This guide dives deep into the modular home regulations in New York and Florida, then offers a state-by-state directory to help builders, buyers, and developers understand the rules across the U.S.

New York State: Modular Home Requirements

New York treats modular homes as Factory Manufactured Buildings, governed by Title 19 NYCRR Part 1209. Key requirements include:

• Uniform Code Compliance: All modular buildings must meet the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code and the State Energy Code.
• Insignia of Approval: Each unit must bear an insignia issued by the Department of State before leaving the factory.
• Third-Party Inspections: Manufacturers must contract with a Department-approved Quality Assurance Agency.
• Local Permitting: Installation must comply with local zoning, foundation, and utility codes, and be approved by the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).

Source: New York Department of State – Modular Buildings

Florida State: Modular Home Requirements

Florida distinguishes modular homes from mobile homes and enforces strict guidelines under the Florida Building Code (FBC):

• Permanent Foundations: Modular homes must be installed on engineered foundations, similar to site-built homes.
• Insignia Requirement: Homes must bear the insignia of the Florida Department of Community Affairs (DCA) inside the electrical panel.
• Licensed Contractors: Only contractors licensed by the Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR) may install modular homes.
• Zoning & Utility Compliance: Local building departments enforce zoning, utility connections, and permitting.

Source: Florida Building – Mobile vs. Modular Homes

Modular Home Requirements by State

Here’s a state-by-state summary of modular home regulations. Most states follow the International Building Code (IBC) with local amendments. Some have dedicated modular programs, while others rely on local jurisdictions.

State	Oversight Agency / Notes
Alabama	Alabama Manufactured Housing Commission
Alaska	Local jurisdictions; follows IBC
Arizona	Arizona Department of Housing
Arkansas	Arkansas Manufactured Home Commission
California	California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD)
Colorado	Division of Housing, Department of Local Affairs
Connecticut	Department of Consumer Protection
Delaware	Delaware State Housing Authority
Florida	Florida Building Commission / DBPR
Georgia	Department of Community Affairs
Hawaii	County-level building departments
Idaho	Division of Building Safety
Illinois	Illinois Department of Public Health
Indiana	Indiana Department of Homeland Security
Iowa	State Building Code Bureau
Kansas	Kansas Department of Health and Environment
Kentucky	Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction
Louisiana	Louisiana Manufactured Housing Commission
Maine	Manufactured Housing Board
Maryland	Department of Housing and Community Development
Massachusetts	Board of Building Regulations and Standards
Michigan	Bureau of Construction Codes
Minnesota	Department of Labor and Industry
Mississippi	Mississippi Insurance Department
Missouri	Public Service Commission
Montana	Department of Labor and Industry
Nebraska	Public Service Commission
Nevada	Manufactured Housing Division
New Hampshire	Department of Safety
New Jersey	Department of Community Affairs
New Mexico	Manufactured Housing Division
New York	Department of State
North Carolina	Department of Insurance
North Dakota	Department of Commerce
Ohio	Ohio Board of Building Standards
Oklahoma	Oklahoma Uniform Building Code Commission
Oregon	Building Codes Division
Pennsylvania	Department of Community and Economic Development
Rhode Island	Building Code Commission
South Carolina	Manufactured Housing Board
South Dakota	Department of Labor and Regulation
Tennessee	Department of Commerce and Insurance
Texas	Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
Utah	Department of Commerce
Vermont	Division of Fire Safety
Virginia	Department of Housing and Community Development
Washington	Department of Labor and Industries
West Virginia	Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Standards Board
Wisconsin	Department of Safety and Professional Services
Wyoming	Department of Fire Prevention and Electrical Safety

Source: Modular Building Institute – State Contacts

Modular homes offer a compelling alternative to traditional construction, but success hinges on understanding and complying with state-specific regulations. Whether you’re building in the snowy hills of New York or the hurricane-prone coasts of Florida, aligning with local codes ensures safety, legality, and peace of mind.

If you’re planning a modular project, consider consulting with local building departments and certified professionals early in the process. And if you’re expanding across states, be prepared to navigate a patchwork of rules and certifications.

Why Legal Guidance Matters in Modular Home Projects

Navigating modular home construction isn’t just about permits and building codes—it’s also about protecting your investment. From contract disputes to delivery of damaged units, legal issues can arise at any stage. An experienced construction attorney can help you review contracts, resolve customization conflicts, and pursue claims for breach of warranty or building code violations. If you’re facing challenges with your modular home in New York and Florida. To learn more about our services, please click here.

John Caravella Esq., is a construction attorney and formerly practicing project architect at The Law Office of John Caravella, P.C., representing architects, engineers, contractors, subcontractors, and owners in all phases of contract preparation, litigation, and arbitration across New York and Florida. He also serves as an arbitrator to the American Arbitration Association Construction Industry Panel. Mr. Caravella can be reached by email: John@LIConstructionLaw.com or (631) 608-1346.