Florida Pool Building Permits and Inspection Requirements: What To Know
Building a swimming pool in Florida requires obtaining several permits and undergoing inspections to ensure the pool is built to code. Awareness of the statewide and local requirements is crucial.
Here, we discuss the Florida Pool Building Permits and Inspection Requirements. Consulting with reputable pool builders in your area is recommended because they can be challenging and time-consuming.
Checking With the Local Municipality
The first step is to check with your local municipality to see if any zoning restrictions apply to building a pool on your property. Most areas allow pools in residential areas, but setbacks from property lines may be required. Your local building department can provide specifics for your jurisdiction.
The State
At the state level, new construction must receive Florida Product Approval. This ensures your building plans meet the Florida Building Code requirements for safety and construction. For a standard backyard pool, you'll submit documents like plot plans showing pool location, structural plans, electrical and plumbing plans, and specifications on the water circulation system. The state charges permit fees based on the value of the construction project.
Plan Review
The building permit submission triggers a plan review process. State or local officials will check that the pool layout complies with setback limits, barrier requirements, entrapment protection standards, and other codes. This review takes 1-2 weeks typically.
Inspections
Once the building permit is issued, regular inspections occur throughout construction. Common inspections include:
- Site inspection - Checking initial site prep and pool layout conform to approved plans
- Steel/rebar inspection - Verifying proper rebar spacing and coverage in the pool shell
- Plumbing rough-in inspection - Inspecting the PVC pipes, suction fittings, drains, and supply lines before covering
- Electrical inspection - Checking bonding, lighting, switches, outlets, and pump connections
- Deck inspection - Verifying proper reinforcement and expansion joints on the concrete pool deck
- Barrier inspection - Ensuring the fence, gate, and other barriers meet safety codes
- Final inspection - Checking the water circulation system and certifying completion
Final Sign-Off
The local building department will sign off on inspections after each stage passes.
Partner With a State Licensed Pool Contractor
Suppose you hire JT's Custom Pools as your pool builder in Port Charlotte, Venice, North Port, Englewood, Sarasota, Punta Gorda, Bradenton and surrounding areas. JT's Custom Pools will take care of your area's Florida Pool Building Permits and inspection requirements to ensure the Florida Pool Building and Swimming Pool codes are met. By hiring JT's Custom Pools you can sit back, relax and enjoy your new pool build experience.
As Florida also regulates pool contractors. JT's Custom Pools is registered with the state and maintains proper licenses. The technicians who perform maintenance on pool systems are also certified. These state requirement qualifications ensure you partner with a highly qualified and reputable pool company such as JT's Custom Pools.
To speak with an expert pool company regarding the Florida Pool Building Permits and Inspection Requirements in your area, contact JT's Custom Pools today.
Please note that special regulations apply to public swimming pools and spas. Extra permits and more rigorous codes cover these community pools. Safety measures like anti-entrapment drain covers, depth markers, and float lines become necessary.