Florida Pool Fence Laws: A Plain-Language Guide
Florida law requires every residential pool to have an approved safety barrier. Here's exactly what the statute requires — and what it actually means for your family.
Florida Statute §515.27 — The Short Version
Every owner of a residential swimming pool built after 2000 must equip it with at least one of four approved safety features. Failure to comply can result in code violations, fines, and liability exposure. The most protective option — and the one recommended by child safety experts — is a four-sided isolation fence meeting the specifications below.
What the law requires — point by point
The following requirements apply to pool fences used as the primary barrier under Florida law.
Minimum Height: 48 Inches
The barrier must be at least 48 inches (4 feet) high on the outside. Child safety experts and the AAP recommend 60 inches (5 feet) because active toddlers can scale a 4-foot fence.
Four-Sided Enclosure
The fence must completely enclose the pool area with no direct access from the home. If the house wall forms one side, that wall must have alarms on every door and window that opens into the pool area.
No Footholds or Handholds
The barrier must have no openings, handholds, or footholds accessible from the outside that would allow a child to climb over it. Vertical picket fences with rails on the inside face meet this requirement; those with rails on the outside do not.
Maximum 4-Inch Gaps
All openings in the barrier must be small enough that a 4-inch sphere cannot pass through. This prevents toddlers from squeezing through gaps in picket fences or lattice panels.
Self-Closing, Self-Latching Gates
All gates must be equipped with self-closing and self-latching hardware. Gates must swing outward, away from the pool. The latch must be located at least 54 inches from the ground, or placed on the pool side of the gate.
No Climbable Objects Within 20 Inches
No furniture, equipment, or other climbable objects may be placed within 20 inches of the inside of the barrier. Planters, chairs, and equipment should be kept away from the fence perimeter.
The 3 alternatives to a fence
Florida law allows these alternatives. Each has significant limitations compared to a four-sided fence.
Pool Alarm
Florida Statute §515.27(1)(b)
A ASTM F2208-compliant pool alarm that sounds both poolside and in the home. Must be activated whenever the pool is not in use.
Door/Window Alarms
Florida Statute §515.27(1)(c)
All doors and windows that open directly to the pool must be alarmed with a device that sounds for at least 30 seconds when opened.
Safety Pool Cover
Florida Statute §515.27(1)(d)
A ASTM F1346-compliant motorized safety cover that is in place whenever the pool is not in use.
County & municipal contacts
State law sets the minimum. Many counties and cities have stricter requirements or additional permit processes. Always verify locally before installing.
Palm Beach County
Follows state minimums. Building permit required for fence installation. Inspections required through county Building Division.
Broward County
Follows state minimums. Some municipalities (Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood) have additional local requirements. Verify with your city.
Miami-Dade County
Additional regulations may apply in incorporated municipalities. Contact your city building department directly.
Orange County (Orlando)
Follows state statute. Local HOA covenants may require additional fencing aesthetics.
This information is for general educational purposes. Always verify current requirements with your local building department.
Common questions about Florida pool law
Does Florida require a pool fence or just any barrier?
Florida Statute §515.27 requires at least ONE of four approved safety features: a fence/barrier, a pool alarm, door/window alarms, or a safety cover. You are not required to have all four, but a four-sided fence is by far the most protective option. Many safety experts recommend combining a fence with at least one additional layer.
Do I need a permit to install a pool fence in Palm Beach County?
Yes, in most cases. Palm Beach County requires a building permit for permanent pool barrier installations. Removable mesh fences installed by a licensed contractor typically qualify under a contractor's general permit. Always confirm with the Palm Beach County Building Division before installation.
Can my pool fence use the house wall as one side?
Yes, under Florida law. However, studies show that four-sided isolation fencing (completely surrounding the pool, not using the home wall) reduces drowning risk by up to 83%. When the house is one side, every door and window that opens into the pool area must be alarmed.
What happens if my pool is not compliant?
Non-compliant pools can result in fines, required remediation, and increased liability exposure in the event of an accident. When a pool is sold, buyers typically inspect for compliance. New pool construction will not pass a certificate of occupancy inspection without an approved barrier.
Are inflatable or above-ground pools subject to the same rules?
Yes. Florida Statute §515.23 defines a residential swimming pool as any structure holding 24 or more inches of water. Above-ground pools with sides higher than 48 inches may qualify as their own barrier, but access ladders must be removed or secured when the pool is not in use.
Ready to Install a Pool Fence?
A four-sided removable mesh fence is the #1 barrier recommended by safety experts to prevent child drowning. Work with a certified professional installer in your area for the best protection.
For Florida families, we recommend Protect-A-Child — trusted by families for 40+ years.