What a new pool must have
Section 515.27(1) says a new residential pool must meet at least one of five requirements to pass final inspection and receive a certificate of completion:
- Isolation by an enclosure that meets the barrier requirements of section 515.29.
- An approved safety pool cover.
- Exit alarms on doors and windows with a minimum sound pressure rating of 85 dB A at 10 feet.
- Self-closing, self-latching doors with the release no lower than 54 inches above the floor.
- A swimming pool alarm independently certified to ASTM F2208.
Section 515.25 defines a swimming pool as a structure that contains water over 24 inches deep. The Collier County checklist asks for the Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act form and the proposed barrier method with the plans. See the permit guide.
Barrier details
Section 515.29 says a barrier must be at least 4 feet high on the outside, with no gaps, openings, indentations or protrusions a young child could use, and placed sufficiently away from the water's edge. Gates must open outward and be self-closing and self-latching, with the release on the pool side. A dwelling wall can be part of the barrier only if it has no door or window that opens to the pool. No permanent structure may let someone climb the barrier.
Information your builder must give you
Section 515.33 requires a licensed pool contractor, home builder or developer to give the buyer a document with the chapter's requirements, together with the Department of Health's drowning prevention publication.
What the chapter does not cover
Section 515.37 lists exemptions, among them public swimming pools, portable spas with a compliant safety cover, small temporary pools without motors, and places where a political subdivision has an ordinance equal to or more stringent than the chapter.
Source: Florida Statutes 2025, chapter 515, read November 6, 2026. Ask your permit office how the chapter is checked at final inspection.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if a new pool has no safety feature?
Section 515.27(2) says the person commits a second degree misdemeanor. There is no penalty if, within 45 days after arrest or citation, the person adds a feature and attends a drowning prevention education program.
Does a city or county ordinance replace chapter 515?
Section 515.37 says the chapter does not apply where a political subdivision has an ordinance that is equal to or more stringent. Ask the permit office which rule governs your address.