Hollywood, FL Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum Height
- 48 inches
- Gate Type
- Self-closing, self-latching
- Latch Height
- 54 inches (pool side)
- Permit
- Separate barrier permit required
- Inspection
- Required before pool can be filled
Summary
Pool barriers in Hollywood FL must be at least 48 inches high per Florida Statutes Chapter 515 and Florida Building Code. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching with the latch at least 54 inches above grade on the pool side. The barrier must fully enclose the pool. A separate barrier permit is required.
515.29 Residential swimming pool barrier requirements. — (1) A residential swimming pool barrier must have all of the following characteristics: (a) The barrier must be at least 4 feet high on the outside.
(b) The barrier may not have any gaps, openings, indentations, protrusions, or structural components that could allow a young child to crawl under, squeeze through, or climb over the barrier.
(c) The barrier must be placed around the perimeter of the pool and must be separate from any fence, wall, or other enclosure surrounding the yard unless the fence, wall, or other enclosure or portion thereof is situated on the perimeter of the pool, is being used as part of the barrier, and meets the barrier requirements of this section.
(d) The barrier must be placed sufficiently away from the water’s edge to prevent a young child or medically frail elderly person who may have managed to penetrate the barrier from immediately falling into the water.
(2) The structure of an aboveground swimming pool may be used as its barrier or the barrier for such a pool may be mounted on top of its structure; however, such structure or separately mounted barrier must meet all barrier requirements of this section. In addition, any ladder or steps that are the means of access to an aboveground pool must be capable of being secured, locked, or removed to prevent access or must be surrounded by a barrier that meets the requirements of this section.
(3) Gates that provide access to swimming pools must open outward away from the pool and be self-closing and equipped with a self-latching locking device, the release mechanism of which must be located on the pool side of the gate and so placed that it cannot be reached by a young child over the top or through any opening or gap.
(4) A wall of a dwelling may serve as part of the barrier if it does not contain any door or window that opens to provide access to the swimming pool.
(5) A barrier may not be located in a way that allows any permanent structure, equipment, or similar object to be used for climbing the barrier.
Full Breakdown
Hollywood FL enforces pool barrier requirements under Florida Statutes Chapter 515 (Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act) and the Florida Building Code. The minimum barrier height is 48 inches measured on the outside. Acceptable barriers include screen enclosures, wooden fences, concrete block walls, and wire fences. All access gates must be self-closing and self-latching with the latch on the pool side at least 54 inches above grade. The barrier must completely enclose the pool area with no gaps allowing a child to pass through. A separate barrier permit is required from the Building Department, and the barrier must pass final inspection before the pool can be filled with water. At least two safety features are required under Florida law.
Violations & Fines
Pools without compliant barriers face serious penalties including orders to drain the pool, fines, and code enforcement liens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum pool fence height in Hollywood FL?
Does a screen enclosure count as a pool barrier?
Can I fill my pool before the fence is inspected?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Hollywood
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Hollywood to another location·View the Florida swimming pools & spas overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Fencing & Safety Requirements in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Broward County handle fencing & safety requirements.