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Stuart, FL Fence Regulations: Pool Barriers (2026)

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Key Facts

Statute: F.S. Chapter 515
Minimum barrier height: 48 inches
Applies to: All Florida residential pools
Penalty: First-degree misdemeanor
Required features: At least one of four

Florida state rule: Stuart does not have a local ordinance for pool barriers. This topic is governed by Florida state law and applies uniformly across the state.

Summary

Florida Statutes Chapter 515 establishes minimum statewide pool barrier requirements applying to every residential swimming pool, spa, or hot tub. New pools must meet at least one safety feature requirement before receiving a certificate of completion, regardless of city or county location.

Full Breakdown

The Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act (Ch. 515, F.S.) requires all new residential pools, spas, and hot tubs to satisfy at least one of four pool safety features: a four-foot non-climbable barrier surrounding the pool, an approved safety pool cover, all doors and windows providing direct pool access equipped with exit alarms, or all doors providing direct access secured by self-closing, self-latching devices. Barriers must be at least 48 inches high, have no gaps allowing a 4-inch sphere to pass, and be placed sufficiently away from the water. Local jurisdictions may impose stricter standards but cannot waive these baseline statewide requirements. The Florida Building Code incorporates these standards uniformly.

Violations & Fines

First-degree misdemeanor under F.S. 515.29, punishable by up to one year imprisonment and $1,000 fine. Violators may complete a pool safety program in lieu of prosecution if no injury occurred.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Florida city waive pool barrier requirements?

No. Chapter 515 sets a statewide floor that applies to every residential pool. Cities and counties may enforce stricter rules, but cannot exempt a homeowner from the four required safety features.

Do existing pools need to be retrofitted?

Chapter 515 applies primarily to pools constructed after October 1, 2000. However, a pool's safety features must remain operational, and substantial remodeling can trigger compliance with current standards.

What counts as an approved safety feature?

A 48-inch isolation barrier, an approved ASTM F1346 safety cover, exit alarms on direct-access doors and windows, or self-closing self-latching devices on access doors at least 54 inches above the floor.

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Stuart, FL Fence Regulations: Pool Barriers (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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