Pembroke Pines's Swimming Pools & Spas: The Rules That Matter
Every city handles swimming pools & spas a little differently. In Pembroke Pines, Florida, there are 5 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.
Above-Ground Pools
Above-ground pools in Pembroke Pines must meet the same barrier and safety requirements as in-ground pools. Pools with 24+ inches of water require permits and barriers.
Key details: Permit Required: Pools with 24+ inches of water. Barrier: 48 inches — wall or fence. Ladder: Must be lockable or removable. Hurricane Zone: Must be secured during storm season.
Non-compliant pools must be corrected. Unpermitted installations face citations and retroactive permit requirements.
Safety Rules
Pembroke Pines enforces Florida's Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act (F.S. 515). Pools must have at least one safety feature and anti-entrapment drain covers. Building permits required for new pools.
Key details: Safety Feature: At least one required per F.S. 515.27. Anti-Entrapment: VGB Act compliant drains required. Building Permit: Required for new pools. Final Inspection: Required before use.
Pools cannot be used without passing final inspection. Non-compliant pools receive orders to correct safety deficiencies.
This is one of the stricter rules in Pembroke Pines's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.
Fencing Requirements
Pembroke Pines requires pool fences at least 4 feet high with self-closing, self-latching gates per Florida Building Code. Pool fence installation requires a building permit.
Key details: Barrier Height: 48 inches (4 feet) minimum. Permit Required: Yes — for pool fence installation. Gates: Self-closing, self-latching required. Screen Enclosures: May serve as barrier if compliant.
Non-compliant pool barriers fail inspections. Existing non-compliant pools may receive code enforcement orders to install proper barriers.
Compared to other cities, Pembroke Pines takes a harder line on fencing requirements. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.
Hot Tub Rules
Hot tubs and spas in Pembroke Pines are subject to the Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act (FL Statute 515) and local code Sections 150.50–150.52. Safety barriers are required. A building permit and electrical permit are needed for installation. Hot tubs must maintain clear, sanitary water. Noise from hot tub equipment must comply with Chapter 96.
Key details: Barrier Required: Yes, or approved safety cover. Safety Cover: ASTM F1346 standard. Permits: Building + electrical. Water: Must be clean and sanitary. Noise: Ch. 96 applies to equipment.
No barrier around an unsecured hot tub violates FL Statute 515. Unpermitted installations are building code violations.
Pool Permits
Pembroke Pines requires permits for all swimming pool construction under Sections 150.50–150.52. A pool permit cannot be issued without a simultaneous barrier permit. Plans must show compliance with the safety barrier requirements. The Building Department at 954-435-6502 processes pool permits. FL Statute 515 provides state-level safety requirements.
Key details: Permit Required: Yes, pool + barrier permits. Barrier Permit: Must accompany pool permit. Building Code: 2023 FBC + Broward. State Law: FL Statute 515. Contact: Building Dept. 954-435-6502.
Building a pool without permits is a serious code violation. Stop-work orders, fines, and potential demolition may result.
The Bottom Line
Pembroke Pines is tougher than many cities when it comes to swimming pools & spas. Out of the 5 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Pembroke Pines, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.
These rules come from Pembroke Pines's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.