Winter Haven Implements New Pool Safety Requirements for Property Owners

Winter Haven property owners installing new swimming pools, spas, or hot tubs must now comply with specific safety requirements. These regulations aim to enhance safety for families and prevent accidents in residential aquatic features.

The City of Winter Haven Building & Permitting Division, located at 490 3rd St. NW, is the local authority for these new rules. Residents can contact the division at 863-291-5695 for guidance on compliance. The requirements draw from Chapter 515, Florida Statutes, and Florida Building Code – Residential Chapter 45, which outline minimum safety standards.

Property owners have several options to achieve compliance. One method involves isolating the pool from the home with an enclosure that meets the barrier requirements of s. 515.29 / FBC R4501.17. Another option is to equip the pool with an approved safety cover that complies with ASTM F 1346 standards.

For direct access points from the home to the pool, specific measures are also required. All doors and windows providing direct access must have exit alarms complying with UL2017, featuring a minimum sound pressure rating of 85 dB A at 10 feet. Alternatively, direct access doors can be equipped with a self-closing, self-latching device where the release mechanism sits no lower than 54 inches above the floor. A swimming pool alarm, independently certified to ASTM Standard F2208, which covers various alarm types like surface motion, pressure, sonar, laser, and infrared, also serves as an acceptable safety measure.

These regulations ensure that new installations meet state and local safety benchmarks. Residents planning new pool, spa, or hot tub projects should familiarize themselves with these options to ensure their installations are safe and compliant. Further details and official forms are available on the City of Winter Haven Building & Permitting Division's website at https://mywinterhaven.com/residens/building-permits-and-license.