If you have an outdoor pool but don’t have a fence, your pool might be illegal. So, how deep can a pool be without a fence?

My Fence Company, Lakeland’s pool fence contractor, has every answer you need to keep your pool both safe and compliant. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know.

The Risks of Improper Barriers

Why are the pool fence laws around residential swimming pools so strict? Each year, nearly 300 children under five years old drown in unprotected pools. Of those, 65% were between one and three years old.

Non-fatal incidents were higher, with 4,100 young children suffering non-threatening injuries still requiring emergency room treatment. Following the proper barrier guidelines significantly reduces the chance children suffer an injury at your pool.

Barrier Guidelines

What are Lakeland’s pool fencing standards? Whether the pool sits above ground or in the ground, permanent or temporary, it must have a barrier if it’s at least 24 inches deep. This includes hot tubs, spas, and wading pools.

Location

The only guideline for the fence’s location includes it must capably prohibit children from entering the pool area unsupervised. It might sound obvious, but a barrier not around the pool doesn’t count. A property fence doesn’t qualify.

Construction

The fence should completely surround the pool. On one side, the house offers an inadequate deterrent for pool entry. Fences must reach at least four feet high; however, those over five feet are safer.

If you must use a side of the house as part of the barrier, install a door alarm to alert you to the presence of an unattended child in the area. Ensure the access door doesn’t open easily.

The space between the bottom of the fence and the ground should not exceed four inches for a solid foundation or two inches for a semi-firm foundation such as grass.

Coverings

Pool coverings are optional but add an extra layer of protection to keep children safe. Keep the cover well maintained and access to the control mechanism beyond a child’s reach.

Types of Fences

Now that you know “How deep can a pool be without a fence,” choose the best type for your home.

Slatted or Barred

Barriers with slats or bars need a construction that prevents a child from climbing over the fence or between its gaps. Construct the fence so the cross portion that holds the slats together sits on the interior side near the pool. The holes between the vertical fence components can’t exceed four inches wide.

Chain-Link

Chain-link fences provide excellent protection provided they’re well constructed. The holes in the fence shouldn’t exceed 1-1/4 inches. If larger, insert slats to reduce the open space.

Lattice Work

Fence requirements dictate the maximum measurement for a hole in a latticework fence is 1-3/4 inches.

Considerations for Above-Ground Pools in Lakeland

Above-ground pool owners can count the pool wall as a barrier provided it meets the height requirement or can add an extension to increase the pool’s height to the required level. Design steps or ladders that access the pool with devices that can secure them or restrict access. 

In-Ground Pool Considerations

You can find a mesh fence custom-made for in-ground pools. For access, you can choose from two types of gates:

• Pedestrian: Pedestrian gates allow foot traffic to exit and enter the pool area. Every barrier should have at least one gate for access. They must open outward from the pool and self-close and self-latch in case someone forgets to shut it.
• Vehicle: Most residential pools won’t need a gate that allows vehicle access. Because of the larger potential opening, ensure vehicle gates close and latch similarly to the pedestrian gate.

Additional Safety Considerations

Consider these options for additional safety if your situation warrants it.

Indoor Pools

Indoor pools do not require a barrier. However, make sure you properly cover the pool and lock all access doors.

Removable Barriers

If you have a temporary pool, you might also have a removable barrier. Lakeland law requires that at least one side of the barrier requires tools for removal.

Let My Fence Company Place Your Lakeland Fence Today

Now that you know “How deep can a pool be without a fence,” do you need My Fence Company to complete some work? Whether you wonder about the pool fence cost or which type of fence is best for you, they can help throughout the entire process. From planning to installation, they’ll be there for you.

Do you have more questions? Contact My Fence Company for answers today!