Residential Swimming Pools

NOTE: This page is not the complete swimming pool code requirements, it is only to point out the main safety requirements. The full code section can be accessed through the link below.

 

Section 424.2 of the Florida Building Code requires all new private swimming pools to be constructed with specific safety features to help prevent drowning.

Section 424.2.6.6 requires all private swimming pools to be equipped with an anti-entrapment device to prevent accidental entrapment at any of the pools suction inlets.

 

Section R4501.17 requires all new private swimming pools to provide a barrier around the pool, with one exception. If a pool is equipped with an approved safety cover complying with ASTM F 1346. The barrier must be designed so as to prevent anyone from have direct access from the home to the pool, as well as access from the yard to the pool. This can be accomplished in different ways. One of the ways is to install a four foot fence (commonly referred to as a baby barrier) around the perimeter of the pool. This barrier must be a minimum of 20" away from the water edge.

 

If one of the walls of the dwelling is to act as part of the barrier, all doors and windows with direct access to the pool must be equipped with an exit alarm complying with UL 2017 with a sound pressure rating of 85 dB A at 10 feet. The alarm must produce an audible warning immediately after the door, window or screen is opened. This alarm shall be a continuous. There shall be a manual means to deactivate the alarm at one opening with the deactivation not lasting more then 15 seconds. Also the deactivation switch must be a minimum of 54" above the threshold of the door. Separate alarms are not required for each door or window if sensors wired to a central alarm sound when contact is broken at any opening.

 

There are however three exception, they are:

 

1. Screen or protected windows with the bottom sill height of 48" above the interior finished floor.
   
2. Windows facing the pool on a floor above the first floor.
   
3. Screened or protected pass-through kitchen windows 42" or higher above a counter.

 

A second option that can be used is is to equip all doors that provide direct access to the pool with self-closing and self-latching devices. Such devices shall be a minimum of 54" above the finished floor.

These safety regulation also pertain to above ground pools, unless the pool is equipped with a removable ladder, and the height of the pool wall is a minimum of four (4) feet above grade.

 

 

 

 

 

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