Miami Beach, FL Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing Requirements (2026)

Under Miami-Dade County Code Section 33-12, all swimming pools in Miami Beach must have a safety barrier at least 4 feet high enclosing the pool area or the premises. The barrier may take the form of a screened-in patio, wooden fence, wire fence (2-inch chain link or diamond weave nonclimbable type with top rail, heavy galvanized material), rock wall, concrete block wall, or other approved materials compatible with the property's architecture. Gates must be spring-lock type that automatically close and fasten, and must be equipped with a safe lock that remains locked when the pool is not in use. The barrier must completely enclose the pool area, prohibiting unrestrained access. No final inspection for a pool will be approved unless the safety barrier has been erected. The barrier permit must be obtained simultaneously with the pool permit. For properties adjacent to canals or waterways (common in parts of Miami Beach), the waterway does not substitute for a barrier on that side. Florida Building Code Section 454 and the Florida Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act (F.S. 515.29) provide additional requirements including door alarms for homes with direct pool access.