Spring Hill, FL Fence Regulations: Pool Barriers (2026)

Hernando County enforces FS Chapter 515 (Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act) through the 8th Edition (2023) Florida Building Code, Residential Section R4501.17 (and Building Section 454.2.17 for non-residential). FS 515.29 (Barrier requirements) and FBC R4501.17 set the residential pool-barrier standard for any Spring Hill pool, hot tub, or nonportable spa with water over 24 inches deep: the top of the barrier must be at least 48 inches above grade measured on the side facing away from the pool; no opening may allow passage of a 4-inch-diameter sphere; the bottom clearance may not exceed 2 inches above grade on the exterior side; horizontal members must be 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 may not exceed 1-1/4 inches (2-1/4 inches with slats reducing the visible opening). Gates must be self-closing and self-latching, must open outward away from the pool, and the latch release must be on the pool side at least 54 inches above the gate bottom; any opening 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(2)(c)) OR a self-closing self-latching device with the release at least 54 inches above the floor. The pool barrier is reviewed as part of the pool permit by the Hernando County Building Division (789 Providence Blvd., Brooksville, FL 34601, (352) 754-4050) - it is NOT covered by the 2024 fence-permit amendment (Ord. 2024-07). The barrier must be placed sufficiently far from the water's edge that a young child who penetrates the barrier does not immediately fall in. Spring Hill is a large platted suburb with quarter-acre lots and many backyard pools, so pool-barrier compliance is one of the most frequently enforced sections of the county code.