Pool barriers in Fort Myers must comply with Florida Statute 515.29 and FBC Residential 8th Edition (2023) Section R4501.17. Required minimums: 48-inch barrier height on the outside face, less-than-4-inch sphere openings, max 2-inch ground clearance, horizontal members spaced at least 45 inches apart (or pickets less than 1-3/4 inches apart if closer), self-closing and self-latching gates that open outward away from the pool, and latch release at least 54 inches above gate bottom on the pool side.
Florida Statute 515.29 sets the statewide barrier standard that Fort Myers enforces through FBC R4501.17 and Building Section 454.2.17. The barrier (which may be a fence, dwelling wall, or non-dwelling wall) must completely surround the pool with the top at least 48 inches above grade measured on the side facing away from the pool; no opening may permit passage of a 4-inch-diameter sphere; bottom clearance may not exceed 2 inches above grade on the exterior side. Horizontal members must be 45 inches or more apart; where they are closer than 45 inches, 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 if slats are inserted). Gates must be self-closing and self-latching, 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. Removable child barriers must be placed no less than 20 inches from the barrier to the water's edge. The Pool/Spa/Fountain Checklist requires plans to 'show details of how the POOL BARRIER REQUIREMENTS are being met in accordance with F.S. 515 and the FBC' - screen enclosure and openings; alarms (make, model, listing); fence (height, openings, gates with location and distance from pool); and safety cover (make, model, listing).
A pool may not be filled or used until the 699-Pool Final inspection passes - barriers must be installed, alarms tested, and bonding complete. Operating a residential pool without a compliant barrier (or one of the four statutory alternatives in FS 515.27) is a second-degree misdemeanor under FS 515.27(2); the penalty is waivable if the owner corrects the violation and completes drowning-prevention education within 45 days.
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