Pool fencing in Florida has to meet specific requirements for safety. The most common fencing that provides safety and privacy is a stockade fence. They’re available in a couple of different styles that meet Florida safety mandates.

Fencing Requirements

The fence must be at least 48 inches high, with uprights that are no more than 4 inches apart, and have an outward opening gate. The fence must be erected a distance away from the pool’s edge so if a child does enter the area unattended, he/she won’t immediately step into the pool.

The fence must be low enough so a toddler can’t climb under it and have no outcroppings that a child could use as handholds to scale the fence. A pool fence must have a self-latching lock on a self-closing gate that small children are unable to reach.

Stockade Fence

A stockade fence is one of the easiest and quickest fencing options and there are two basic styles. All are made of wood. One is constructed in sections with boards laid touching each other. The fencing is typically installed with vertical pickets, but can also be customized so the boards are horizontal. The “pretty” side must face outward. It’s an effective noise blocker, but also prevents air from circulating through.

Staggered

Sometimes referred to as a double slatted fence, it consists of two rows of alternating boards – one on the outside and one on the inside. Individuals that try to see in would have to be at a precise angle to do so.

A double slatted fence is considered more stylish than stockade fencing. It also has the advantage of presenting the same appearance from both sides. It helps dampen sounds and has the added benefit of allowing air to flow through.

Screens

For those that need the barrier of a fence but want something with a little more aesthetic value, there are screen panels that can be erected on the outside of the fence. They’re available in solid colors and can also be obtained with images.

Summer has arrived and for many people that means the installation of a swimming pool. There’s far more involved in having a pool than simply filling it with water and enjoying a refreshing dip. Florida has very specific fence laws for pools to which every owner must adhere for the safety of anyone that might enter the pool area.

Drowning is the leading cause of death in young children, older individuals, and those with disabilities. The deaths typically occur in swimming pools, but they can also happen in environments with hot tubs, backyard spas and wading pools that are fixed in place. For purposes of the law, any structure that holds 24 inches of water is considered a pool whether it’s above-ground, in-ground, or on-the-ground.

Any pool must be completely surrounded by a fence, wall, or similar barrier of at least four feet in height. The rule is true whether the pool is located in the backyard or indoors. The exception to this is if an approved pool cover is used that prevents an individual from sinking below the surface of the water.

There can’t be any gaps in coverage where a child could crawl between fence rails and the barrier can’t be more than two inches off the ground to prevent a child from crawling under it. A pool fence must also be one in which no protrusions or other handholds are available that would allow a child to climb over it.

The door or gate for entry has to face outward and have a self-locking device or other locking mechanism that can’t be reached by a curious child. While an alarm system for the gate isn’t mandated, it’s a good idea to invest in one. Mesh fencing is a good choice for pool barriers, but wood, PVC, and SimTek® materials are also available that can be fashioned to meet Florida’s safety guidelines.

It’s essential to hire a fencing professional that’s cognizant of all pertinent regulations. As an expert, they can provide assistance in creating a fence that’s attractive and complements surroundings that also meets all applicable safety laws.