Palm Coast, FL Fence Regulations: Pool Barriers (2026)

Palm Coast enforces the state Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act (FS Chapter 515) through the 8th Edition (2023) Florida Building Code, Residential Section R4501.17 (and Building Section 454.2.17 where applicable). The City defines a Swimming Pool as any structure intended for swimming or recreational bathing containing water over 24 inches deep - including inground, aboveground, and onground pools, hot tubs, and nonportable spas. Specific barrier requirements per FS 515.29 and FBC R4501.17: top of the barrier at least 48 inches above grade on the side facing away from the pool; no openings that allow passage of a 4-inch-diameter sphere; maximum 2-inch vertical clearance between grade and barrier bottom on the exterior side; horizontal members at least 45 inches apart, or where they are closer than 45 inches the vertical pickets may be no more than 1-3/4 inches apart; chain-link mesh openings no greater than 1-1/4 inches (2-1/4 inches with slats). Gates must be self-closing and self-latching, open outward away from the pool, with the latch release on the pool side at least 54 inches above the bottom of the gate; openings within 18 inches of the release may not exceed 1/2 inch. Where a dwelling wall serves as part of the barrier, doors opening directly into the pool area must have an exit alarm (minimum 85 dBA at 10 feet, per FS 515.27) OR a self-closing self-latching device with a release at least 54 inches above the floor. Palm Coast's above-ground pool guidance additionally states 'Fence gate must swing outward' and 'Fence latch must be 54 inches from the bottom of the gate.' Pools under 48 inches in wall height must have alarms and any windows within the fenced area.