Florida Pool Safety Act Mandates Drowning Prevention

Section 515.27, Florida Statutes, requires at least one of: an isolating barrier, an approved safety cover meeting ASTM F1346, exit alarms on doors and windows providing direct access to the pool, or self-closing/self-latching devices on all such doors. The Act covers in-ground and above-ground pools deeper than 24 inches, spas, and hot tubs without lockable safety covers. The Florida Building Code incorporates these provisions. Final inspection cannot be issued without compliance, and certificates of completion are withheld until verified.

Knowingly failing to equip a residential pool with a required safety feature is a second-degree misdemeanor with up to $500 in fines and 60 days jail, plus mandatory drowning prevention education.