Kissimmee's Swimming Pools & Spas: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles swimming pools & spas a little differently. In Kissimmee, Florida, there are 3 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Pool Permits

LDC §14-6-17 makes swimming pools, spas, hot tubs, and screened enclosures accessory structures subject to the §14-6-1 general accessory rules. Pool setbacks are measured from the water's edge. State F.S. Ch. 515 fencing requirements also apply.

Key details: Code Section: LDC §14-6-17, Sec. 9-286. Setback Measured From: Water's edge. Side/Rear Setback: 5 ft typical. Barrier Required: 48 in min. State Statute: F.S. Ch. 515.

Sec. 1-22(b)(2) — $100 fine for construction without permit. Sec. 1-22(b)(19) — $100 for failure to obtain electrical permit. Failure of pool barrier inspection delays certificate of completion.

Fencing Requirements

Sec. 9-286(c) requires private pools, spas, and hot tubs holding more than 24 inches of water to be surrounded by a 48-inch (4 ft) minimum fence with self-closing, self-latching gates. Gates with latches under 54 inches must have the release on the pool side.

Key details: Code Section: Sec. 9-286(c). Barrier Height: 48 in (4 ft) min. Gate Hardware: Self-close + self-latch. Latch Position: Pool side if < 54 in high. Spa Exception: ASTM F1346 cover.

Sec. 9-296 enforcement: Code Enforcement Board $250/day first violation, $500/day repeat per F.S. Ch. 162. State F.S. §515.27 makes failure to maintain the barrier a second-degree misdemeanor — up to 60 days in jail / $500 fine. Sec. 1-22(b)(18) — $50 for temporary fence failures.

Compared to other cities, Kissimmee takes a harder line on fencing requirements. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Safety Rules

Sec. 9-286 requires pools to be maintained 'in a clean and sanitary condition, and in good repair' with motors and pumps in working condition. Stagnant unmaintained pools are public-health nuisances under Sec. 22-50 and can be drained at owner expense.

Key details: Code Section: Sec. 9-286. Maintenance Standard: Clean and sanitary. Stagnant Pool: Sanitary nuisance (Sec. 22-50). Drain Cover: VGB compliant. Public Pool DOH: F.A.C. 64E-9.

Sec. 9-296 — Code Enforcement Board $250/$500 day. F.S. §381 sanitary-nuisance penalties for stagnant pools — DOH can post properties and pursue contempt charges.

The Bottom Line

Kissimmee's swimming pools & spas rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Kissimmee is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Kissimmee's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.