Florida Bill Proposes More Safety Requirements on New Swimming Pools

The newly introduced legislation would require two safety devices to pass inspection.

1 MIN READ

If a new bill passes in the Sunshine State, new pools and spas will require two safety devices or systems to pass final inspection.

The options in Senate Bill 724, introduced by Republican Senator Ed Hooper, include isolation fencing, a safety cover, window and door alarms, self-closing and -latching devices, or a pool alarm. The bill lists qualifications each product must meet.

Additionally, the bill proposes that certain requirements be met before a pool can be transferred to a new owner.

The Florida Swimming Pool Association expresed concerns to Hooper. While the senator seemed open to exploring options, FSPA said in a communication to its members, he remained committed to the bill, which was proposed by a constituent.

The association is in discussions with the Florida Realtors Association about working together to address the legislation.

SB passed its first committee in March.

A companion bill, House Bill 805, has also been introduced but has not moved yet.

About the Author

Rebecca Robledo

Rebecca Robledo is deputy editor of Pool & Spa News and Aquatics International. She is an award-winning trade journalist with more than 25 years experience reporting on and editing content for the pool, spa and aquatics industries. She specializes in technical, complex or detail-oriented subject matter with an emphasis in design and construction, as well as legal and regulatory issues. For this coverage and editing, she has received numerous awards, including four Jesse H. Neal Awards, considered by many to be the “Pulitzer Prize of Trade Journalism.”