Above-ground pools in Clearwater capable of holding more than 24 inches of water are regulated like in-ground pools, requiring permits, setbacks, and Florida Building Code-compliant safety barriers around the pool area.
Clearwater treats above-ground pools deeper than 24 inches as regulated swimming pools under the Florida Building Code. A building permit is required for installation, and the pool must comply with FS 515 barrier requirements. The pool wall itself may serve as the barrier only if it is at least 48 inches above grade on all sides and any ladder is removable, lockable, or fully enclosed by a compliant secondary barrier. Setbacks from property lines, septic systems, and overhead power lines apply, and electrical work for pumps and lighting must be permitted and inspected.
Installing without a permit or without compliant barriers can lead to stop-work orders, daily fines, mandatory removal, and liability if a child gains access.
Clearwater, FL
Clearwater enforces Florida's Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act requiring a 4-foot barrier, self-closing gates, or alternative safety features on every ne...
Clearwater, FL
Clearwater follows Florida Building Code Residential Section R314 and Florida Statute 553.883 for smoke alarms, plus the Florida Fire Prevention Code adopted...
Clearwater, FL
Clearwater does not impose an annual night cap, because Florida Statute 509.032(7)(b) preempts cities adopted after June 1, 2011 from limiting the frequency ...
Clearwater, FL
Clearwater allows transient lodging (rentals under 31 days) only in Tourist District and Commercial zoning where the use is permitted, and requires a city Bu...
Clearwater, FL
Clearwater Code Chapter 22 establishes park use regulations, with most city parks closing at 11:00 p.m. or sunset and entry prohibited during posted closed h...
Clearwater, FL
Clearwater enforces juvenile curfew rules adopted by reference from Florida Statutes Sec. 877.20 through 877.24, restricting minors in public places during o...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Pinellas County.
See how other cities in Pinellas County handle above-ground pools.
See how Clearwater's above-ground pools rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.