The Residential Pool Safety Act, Chapter 515 of Florida Statutes, requires a safety barrier around any new residential pool more than 24 inches deep. There are four different ways to achieve an approved barrier:

1)  An approved safety pool cover.

2) A barrier/fence surrounding the pool that is at least 4 feet high on the outside, with no openings that would allow a small child to climb the fence or squeeze through it. Any gates in the fence must swing outward (away from the pool) and have a latch that is at least 54 inches above the floor. 

3) Equip all doors and windows in the home that provide direct access to the pool with an exit alarm that has a minimum rating of 85 decibels at 10 feet.

4) Install a self-closing and self-latching device with a release mechanism positioned at least 54 inches above the floor, on all doors with direct access to the pool.

    Only one barrier method is required, but you can choose to install multiple safety barriers. Also, the pool wall of an above ground pool is acceptable as a safety barrier, as long as it is at not climbable and least 4 feet high, and the ladder is removable or can be secured and locked to prevent use. For more on this, see our blog post Does an above-ground pool have to comply with code requirements for a swimming pool barrier?   

    And for the stats on child drownings in backyard pools, go to How many children drown each year in a pool or spa? 

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Here’s links to a collection of our blog posts about POOL AND SPA:

• Does an above-ground pool require a building permit? 

• What are the pros and cons of vinyl liner vs fiberglas vs concrete in-ground pools? 

• Can a pool with green, cloudy water be inspected?

• Should I refinish-resurface my pool with paint or plaster?

• Why are pool pumps now required to be variable speed? 

• What are the clearance requirements for an overhead electric service drop that is directly over or near a swimming pool?

    Visit our POOL AND SPA page for other related blog posts on this subject, or go to the INDEX for a complete listing of all our articles.