Permitting, Environment and Regulatory Affairs

Hurricane Damage to Swimming Pool Barriers

After a hurricane passes and when local authorities say it's safe to leave your home, the following missing or damaged items must be repaired as a priority:

• All swimming pool barriers such as a pool screen enclosure, fence or other approved pool barrier device that is required by Sec.33-12 of the Miami-Dade County Code.
• If your swimming pool construction application was filed after January 1, 1998, you must additionally comply with Chapter 424.2.17 of the Florida Building Code.
• You must obtain a building permit in order to replace or install a pool barrier. A final inspection will be required as part of the Building process.
  • A temporary contractor safely mesh may be erected while the pool barrier repairs are made. Temporary mesh may be purchased at your local home improvement store.
  • Please note that your swimming pool poses a life-safety threat even if it is empty because a fall into the pool could severely injure or kill someone. Also, until the pool is functioning normally, please add chlorine on a regular basis to avoid the excessive growth of algae.
  • Building permit applications are available from Permitting, Environment and Regulatory Affairs at 11805 SW 26th Street, Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. -- 4:00 p.m. The telephone number is 786-315-2100. Information about the permit process and a copy of a building permit application can be obtained from Permitting, Environment and Regulatory Affairs's website.
  • Additional hurricane readiness information can be found on the Miami-Dade County’s online Hurricane Guide.