Okaloosa County, FL Swimming Pools & Spas: Fencing & Safety Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Height
- At least 4 feet outside
- Gaps
- None a child fits through
- Gate
- Self-closing, self-latching
- State Law
- Fla. Stat. Ch. 515
- Coastal
- Enclosures wind-rated
Summary
Every residential pool in Okaloosa County needs a barrier under Chapter 515 of the Florida Statutes: at least four feet high on the outside, with no gaps a child can crawl through, plus a self-closing, self-latching gate.
The barrier must be at least 4 feet high on the outside. 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.
Full Breakdown
Chapter 515 of the Florida Statutes, the Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act, governs pool barriers statewide, and Okaloosa County enforces it at inspection. Under section 515.29, the barrier must stand at least four feet high on the outside with no gaps, footholds, or handholds a young child could use to climb over or crawl under. Gates must open outward, self-close, and self-latch, with the release at least 54 inches above the ground. The dwelling wall may form part of the barrier only if the doors leading to the pool carry alarms. Coastal screen enclosures near the Gulf must also meet Florida Building Code wind-load requirements.
Violations & Fines
A missing or noncompliant barrier fails the pool's final inspection and draws a correction order. Owners also carry heavy liability, and pool-safety compliance must be disclosed when the home is sold.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall must my pool fence be?
What kind of gate is required?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Okaloosa County
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Okaloosa County 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 If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.