Jamaica building code to mandate Category Five hurricane standards

Jamaica’s updated Building Code will make Category Five hurricane resistance a central requirement for new construction. Local Government and Community Development Minister, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, said the revised code is to be introduced during this financial year.

McKenzie said Municipal Corporations will receive expanded enforcement authority under the changes. He said the measures will include compulsory compliance inspections and heavier sanctions for persons who build illegally in areas considered high risk.

The Minister gave the update while making his contribution to the 2026/27 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives on Wednesday, June 3.

He also said Local Authorities are being positioned to better police construction activity. According to McKenzie, the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service has approved a revised Establishment Structure for Municipal Corporations, allowing them to hire additional building officers.

McKenzie said the Reconstruction Phase is not intended simply to put back what was destroyed. Instead, he said damaged infrastructure must be replaced by modern, climate-smart and resilient facilities that significantly improve citizens’ quality of life.

He cautioned, however, that nationally and parochially elected representatives, along with the wider public, must accept that the old approach cannot continue.

The Minister said reckless and unsafe practices that have persisted for years must give way to greater order in Jamaica’s built environment. He urged practicality, courage and agreement among all stakeholders as the country seeks to improve living standards through safer construction.