Fort Lauderdale, FL Swimming Pools & Spas: Safety Rules (2026)

Fort Lauderdale regulates pool upkeep through Chapter 18 (Nuisances), Article I (Public Nuisances) of the Code of Ordinances. Section 18-3 defines a 'swimming pool' as any structure intended for the collection of water for the purpose of immersion or partial immersion of human beings, including but not limited to spas, hot-tubs, and similar structures, and defines 'stagnant water' as any accumulation of water which lacks flow, which may be a breeding or feeding place for mosquitoes, rodents, snakes, or other insects or animals, which constitutes a habitat for disease-bearing organisms, or which is a host for algae and other growth indicative of water that is not disinfected. Section 18-12 declares it unlawful and a public nuisance to maintain or permit a swimming pool, spa, hot tub, or similar structure where the pool equipment is not maintained in proper operating condition; where it contains stagnant water; where there is an accumulation of garbage or solid waste; or where the water clarity is insufficient so that the deepest point is not clearly visible. The same article more broadly prohibits any owner or occupant from maintaining real property (including abutting swale, sidewalk, and waterway areas) so as to allow stagnant water. These standards apply to occupied, vacant, and foreclosed properties alike and are enforced by the City's Code Compliance Division.