Backyard Pool Safety Laws & Codes

Laws and Codes You Need to Know When Buying a Backyard Pool

Spring is on the horizon and that means summer is not far behind. With the weather heating up, many homeowners finally choose to act on their longstanding plans to install their very own backyard in-ground or above-ground pool A spring installation also means that you can get the full use of your new pool throughout the entire summer when it’s the hottest. But, before you go take the plunge as a pool owner, there is some key information, including laws and regulations, to keep in mind when planning this new addition to your home. Best Fence of Jacksonville is up to date on everything you need to know. Give them a call first to answer your pool and fencing related questions.

B.O.C.A is the national building code for barriers and fencing of swimming pools. The code details several requirements that must be met for outdoor private swimming pools. Two of the key requirements are that a barrier, any fence, dwelling wall or combination of two, must be at least four feet above the ground level of the swimming pool and that access gates to the swimming pool must be equipped to accommodate a locking device that sits on the pool side of the gate, out of a child’s reach.

At Best Fence of Jacksonville we offer a wide selection of high strength, high-quality gate closures and hinges. Our Lokk Latch Pro is a general purpose gravity latch that’s key lockable and can be designed to fit most traditional house keys. For good measure, we recommend the Magna-Latch™, a magnetically-triggered gate latch that never loses power and experiences no mechanical interference offering extreme reliability and child resistance. Some models of the Magna-Latch are also key lockable for added safety.

The Resident Swimming Pool Safety Act requires that all outdoor private swimming pools built after October 1, 2000 meet a strict set of safety measures in order to help reduce drowning or near-drowning incidents. Ultimately, proper supervision is the biggest factor in reducing these incidents but in the case of lapses in supervision the measures outlined in this act are designed to deny, delay or detect unsupervised entry into the swimming pool. A residential swimming pool barrier must meet all of the following requirements: The barrier must be at least four feet high, there may not be any gaps or openings, the barrier must be placed around the perimeter of the pool and it must be far enough away from the water’s edge such that someone cannot fall into the water if they manage to get through the barrier.

The above requirements were set with safety in mind. As a result, failure to equip a new swimming pool with the safety features mentioned previously is considered a second-degree misdemeanor according to Florida law. That being said, it is important that you consult your local pool installation facility and local fencing company such as Best Fence of Jacksonville to ensure that your backyard oasis meets the various codes and regulations.

At Best Fence Company of Jacksonville, we offer the best quality fences and fence components at our Jacksonville fabrication facility. We are able to control the quality of your fencing from the design all the way to the installation. We offer the best prices on our high quality products because we are the actual manufacturers. We are dedicated to working with your county inspectors and home owners association to ensure your fence meets and passes every requirement and inspection. We guarantee approval of your pool fence by county inspectors and your 100 percent satisfaction.

If you’re ready to build the summer backyard oasis of your dreams while resting assured you meet all the requirements, look no further than Best Fence Company of Jacksonville. Visit our website www.bestfencejax.net to see which option best fits you and your dream. Call us now at (904) 268-1638 to schedule your FREE estimate today!

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Best Fence Company is Jacksonville’s industry leader in fabrication and installment of top quality vinyl and aluminum fencing and ornamental garden products. At Best Fence, our mission is to fabricate and install the highest quality product at a competitive price while providing unsurpassed Customer Service. Fencing is an investment in your home. Your decorative fence design choice adds value to your property in a beautiful way. Your family will feel protected and you'll breathe easier knowing Best Fence installed your new fence. We provide professional FREE estimates at your convenience.  Call us today.