O96-39ORDINANCE NO. 096-,.ff~
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY
OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA, REGARDING SWIMMING
POOL AND SPA REGULATIONS; PROVIDING FOR THE
REPEAL IN ITS ENTIRETY OF THE CURRENT SWIMMING
POOL AND SPA CODE SET FORTH IN ORDINANCE 092-43;
PROVIDING FOR THE CREATION OF A NEW SWIMMING
POOL AND SPA CODE; PROVIDING FOR
ADMINISTRATION IN GENERAL, CONSTRUCTION,
STRUCTURAL DESIGN, DIMENSIONAL DESIGN, DECKS
AND ACCESS, CIRCULATION, FILTERS, PUMPS AND
MOTORS, INLETS AND OUTLETS, AIR INDUCTION
SYSTEMS, SURFACE OVERFLOW, ELECTRICAL,
HEATERS, WATER, WASTE WATER, EQUIPMENT,
SAFETY, BARRIERS, STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES;
PROVIDING FOR .INCORPORATION IN THE CITY'S LAND
DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS; PROVIDING FOR
CONFLICTS, SEVERABILITY, CODIFICATION AND AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the City Commission has heretofore directed the City Administration to
conduct a review and study of the existing Swimming Pool and Spa Code; and
WHEREAS, the City Administration has conducted its review and heretofore made
recommendations to the City Commission; and
WHEREAS, the City Commission has determined that a revised Swimming Pool and Spa
Code will promote the general health and safety within the City of Boynton Beach; and
WHEREAS, the City Commission has determined that it is in the best interest of the
community, residents, business owners, and visitors to establish basiC criteria for the design and
construction of swimming pools and spas within the City.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Chapter 25 of Part III of the City of Boynton Beach, Florida, Land
Development Regulations is hereby created, which shall replace Ordinance 092-43, Swimming
Pools and Spas, of the City of Boynton Beach, Florida, Code of Ordinances and shall read as
provided in Exhibit "A" attached hereto.
Section 2. Each and every other provision of Part III, Land Development Regulations
of the City of Boynton Beach, Florida, shall remain in full force and effect as previously enacted.
Section 3. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith shall be and the
same are hereby repealed.
Section 4. Should any section or provision of this ordinance or portion hereof, any
paragraph, sentence or word be declared by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, such
decision shall not affect the remainder of this ordinance.
Section 5.
Section 6.
FIRST READING this ~f~ day of /~z/~/~7-
SECOND, FINAL READING AND PASSAGE this
~r~-/~-t~' ,1996.
Authority is hereby granted to codify said ordinance.
This ordinance shall become effective immediately upon passage.
,1996.
day of
CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
Mayor
Commissioner
c/~Ssioner
ATTEST:
Cityf~lerk
EXHIBIT "A"
CHAPTER 25
SWIMMING POOLS & SPAS
Article I.
Article II.
Article III.
Article IV.
Article V.
Article VI.
Article VII.
Article VIII.
Article IX.
Article X.
Article XI.
Article XII.
Article XIIL
Article XIV.
Article XV.
Article XVI.
Article
Article
Article
Administration In General
Construction
Structural Design
Dimensional Design
Decks & Access
Circulation
Filters
Pumps & Motors
Inlets & Outlets
Air Induction Systems
Surface Overflow
Electrical
Heaters
Water
Waste Water
Equipment
XVH. Safety
XVHI. Barriers
XIX. Standards & Guidelines
Art. I, §1
ARTICLE I. ADMINISTRATION IN GENERAL
Section 1. Incorporation of Standard Building Code.
Chapter One of the Standard Building Code, as amended from time to time, is hereby
adopted by reference and is incorporated as if herein. It provides for the administration of the
Boynton Beach Swimming Pool and Spa Code.
Section 2. Title & Scope.
TITLE. This chapter may be cited as the "Boynton Beach Swimming Pool and
Spa Code," hereafter referred to as "this Code" or "this chapter."
SCOPE. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to the protection of the public
health, safety and general welfare by prescribing minimum standards for the
design, construction, installation, repair, alteration and maintenance of swimming
pools/spas, and related decking and equipment.
25-1
Art. I, {}2
APPLICABILITY. This chapter applies to all swimming pools/spas defined
herein.
OTHER LAWS. In addition to this chapter, zoning chapters 2 and 2.5 and other
laws may regulate the construction, installation and maintenance of swimming
pools/spas.
FLORIDA ADMINISTRATIVE CODE. Chapter 10D-5, as amended, is enforced
by the Palm Beach County Health Department in the regulation of public
swimming pools [spasl and bathing places and other swimming pools [spas]
serving 5 or more residential units. Review and approval from the local health
unit shall be obtained prior to permit submittal.
PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS. Plans and specifications, as specified in the
Standard Building Code, are a required part of the permit application. All plans
and specifications shall be prepared by an engineer registered in Florida. The
Director of Development is authorized to establish specific construction details for
pools and spas to ensure public health, safety and welfare.
INSPECTIONS AND TESTS. Swimming pools/spas installation or alterations
are subject to inspections and tests as provided for in the Standard Building Code.
ARTICLE II. CONSTRUCTION
Section 1. Materials.
Swimming pools/spas and all appurtenances thereto shall be constructed of materials
which are nontoxic to man and the environment; are impervious; can withstand the required
design stresses; and will provide a watertight structure with a smooth and easily cleaned surface
without cracks or joints, excluding structural joints, or to which a smooth easily cleaned surface
finish is applied or attached.
Section 2. Installation.
Installation instructions for all equipment, materials and devices required by this Chapter
shall comply with a nationally recognized standard and shall be available at the site for the
inspector at all times.
2S-2
Section 1.
A.
Art. III, §1
ARTICLE III. STRUCTURAL DESIGN
In General.
LOADS AND FORCES. Swimming pool/spa structures shall withstand the loads
and forces encountered, or combinations thereof, without exceeding in any of its
structural elements the stresses prescribed in the Standard Building Code.
DESIGN AND MATERIALS. Structural design and materials used shall be in
accordance with generally accepted good engineering practices.
USE OF SAND OR EARTH. Sand or earth shall not be permitted as an interior
finish in a swimming pool/spa except as approved by the Director of
Development for use in special purpose swimming pools/spas.
FOOTING SURFACES. Surfaces within the swimming pool/spa intended to
provide footing for bathers shall provide a slip-resistant surface. The roughness
or irregularity of such surfaces shall not cause injury or discomfort to the feet
during normal use.
VISIBILITY. Colors, patterns, or f'mishes of the swimming pool/spa interior shall
not be such as to obscure the existence or presence of objects or surfaces within
the pool.
POOL CONSTRUCTION CLEARANCES. Construct with a minimum of eight
feet (8') clearance from water's edge to any building foundation at deep end and a
minimum of five feet (5') from water's edge to any building foundation at shallow
end. Exception: the pool may be constructed within three feet (3') of the building
foundation to the edge of the pool coping with the installation of piling designed
by a Florida registered engineer.
SETBACK REQUIREMENTS. Swimming pools and their screen enclosures
shall be classified as structures and shall conform to the setback requirements set
forth in the Zoning Code.
25-3
Section 1.
A.
Art. IV, §1
ARTICLE IV. DIMENSIONAL DESIGN
Swimming pools.
SHAPE. Safety and circulation of swimming pool water shall be considered in
determining the shape of a pool.
1)
2)
There shall be no protrusions, extensions, means of entanglement, or other
obstructions in the swimming area which can cause the entrapment or
injury of a bather.
Overall length, width, and depth in the deep end may vary plus or minus 3
inches from specified dimensions. Other dimensions may vary plus or
minus 2 inches unless otherwise specified in this chapter.
SIDEWALL DEVIATION FROM VERTICAL. Walls shall not be greater than
t 1 degrees from plumb for a minimum depth of 2 feet 9 inches from the waterline
in deep areas, or 2 feet 3 inches in shallow areas. Below these depths the wall
may be reduced to join the floor. Type 1 pools shall have plumb walls.
FLOOR SLOPES. Floor slopes shall, as a minimum, be in compliance with the
following:
1)
2)
3)
4)
All floor slopes shall be uniform; and
The slope of the floor from the shallow end wall towards the deep end
shall not exceed 1:7 (14%) to the point of the first slope change; and
The point of the first slope change shall be defmed as the point at which
the floor slope exceeds 1:7 (14%), and it must occur at least 6 feet (6)
from the shallow end wall; and
The slope of the floor from the point of the first slope change to the deep
end wall shall not exceed 1:3 (33%).
DEPTH AT SHALLOW END. Water depth at the shallow end of the swimming
area shall be 2 feet 9 inches minimum and 3 feet 6 inches maximum, except for
special purpose pools.
1)
No minimum water depth shall be specified in a reduced area. The
reduced area shall be visually set apart and specified on the plans.
25-4
Eo
Fo
Art. IV, §1
DIVING END LIMITATIONS. Pools of the type where manufactured diving
equipment is permitted shall have area and depth of water in compliance with
Palm Beach County standards.
1)
2)
3)
Manufactured diving equipment shall conform to the specifications set
forth in Article V, Section 2A6) and shall be so located in the diving area
of the swimming pool so as to provide the minimum dimensions shown in
Palm Beach County standards.
The tip of the manufactured diving equipment is the reference point for all
other dimensions.
Minimum unobstructed head room from the top of manufactured diving
equipment shall be provided for diving in accordance with the following
table unless greater dimensions are called for by the manufacturer.
Pool Type Minimum Head Room Above Board
1 12 feet
2 12 feet
3 12 feet
4 13 feet
5 14 feet
4)
5)
The minimum allowable underwater cross sections shall be as shown in
Palm Beach County Standards.
Pools on which manufactured diving equipment is prohibited (Type 0)
with water depths not exceeding 4 feet shall not be limited in width,
length, or depth of water except as provided herein before.
STATIONARY DIVING PLATFORMS. Stationary diving platform(s) built on
site shall be located in the diving area of the swimming pool so as to provide the
minimum dimension as shown in Palm Beach County standards at a maximum
height of 3 feet. The stationary diving platform(s) shall not extend more than 18
inches horizontally over the water from the wall.
OFFSET LEDGES. When offset ledges are provided they shall fall within 11
degrees of plumb starting at junction of pool wall and waterline; have a slip
resisting surface; and have maximum width of 8."
25-5
Section 2.
UNDERWATER BENCHES. Underwater benches, where provided, shall have a
maximum horizontal bench depth of 20 inches below the waterline; be visually set
apart; have a slip-resistant surface; and be located fully outside of the required
minimum diving water envelope. Underwater benches shall be permitted in the
deep end of a swimming pool only if they are either completely recessed, shaped
to be compatible with the slope of the wall, or in a comer of the pool.
Spas.
WATER DEPTH. The maximum water depth shall be 4 feet measured from the
water line. Exceptions may be made for spas designed for special purpose such as
instruction, treatment, and therapy.
BENCH DEPTH. The maximum depth of any seat or bench shall be 2 feet
measured from the water line.
HANDHOLDS. Spas shall be provided with a suitable handhold around their
perimeter in areas where water depths exceed 3 feet 6 inches. Handholds shall be
provided no further apart than 4 feet and may consist of any one or a combination
of the following:
1)
2)
3)
Coping, ledges, flanges or decks along the immediate top edge of the spa
shall provide a suitable slip-resistant handhold located not over 12 inches
above the water line.
Ladders, steps or seat ledges.
A rope or railing placed at or not over 12 inches above the water line
fastened to the wall.
FLOOR SLOPE. The slope of the spa floor shall not exceed 1 foot 10 inches of
fall in 12 feet.
Section 1.
A.
ARTICLE V. DECKS & ACCESS
Decks and deck equipment.
APPLICABILITY. These requirements for decks and deck equipment used by
bathers shall apply at the time of construction.
1)
Decks shall be designed and installed in accordance with the latest adopted
issue of the Standard Building Code. Decks shall extend unobstructed
completely around the swimming pool/spa a minimum of 3 feet, except for
columns and ladders and except as provided in Article XVII.
2S-6
Art. V, §1
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
8)
9)
10)
Decks, ramps, coping, step and other foot traffic surfaces shall be slip-
resistant and easily cleaned.
Special features in or on decks such as markers, brand insignias, or similar
shall conform to this Chapter.
Risers shall be uniform and have a maximum height and-minimum tread
depth as specified in the Standard Building Code.
Excavation shall be adequately compacted below the deck.
Decks shall be sloped to effectively drain either to perimeter areas or to
deck drains. Drainage shall remove swimming pool/spa splash water,
deck cleaning water, and rain water without leaving standing water.
a) Site drainage shall be provided so as to direct all perimeter deck
drainage as well as general site and roof drainage away from the
pool.
b) The minimum slope of decks shall be 1/8:1 (. 12%) for textured,
hand-finished concrete decks; ¼:1 (.25%) for exposed aggregate
concrete decks; and ½:1 (.5%) for indoor/outdoor carpeted decks,
unless an alternate drainage method is approved.
c) The maximum slope for all decks other than wood decks shall be 1
inch: I foot. The maximum slope for wood decks shall be Vs: 1
(. 12%). Gaps shall be based on good engineering practices.
Provide joints in decks to minimize cracks due to movement of the slab.
a) The maximum void between adjoining concrete slabs, and/or
between concrete slabs and expansion joint material, shall be plus
or minus 3/16 inch horizontally and ¼ inch vertically.
b) Construction joints where swimming pool/spa coping meets
concrete deck shall be watertight.
c) The areas where the deck joins the swimming pool/spa shall be
designed and installed so as to protect against damage resulting
from differential movement.
If used, an open pit or leaching design for backwashing shall be located
completely below adjacent decks and fully outside a line projected 45
degrees downward and away from such deck, or shall be designed to
accommodate local soil conditions and the volume of backwash.
Valves installed in or under any deck shall provide a minimum 10 inch
diameter access cover and valve pit to facilitate servicing.
Provide hose bibb with vacuum breaker for washing down the deck.
25-7
Art. V, §2
Section 2.
A.
Means of entry/exit.
SWIMMING POOLS.
1)
2)
All pools shall have a means of entry/exit in the shallow end consisting of
a ladder, stairs, or recessed treads. Where two or more entries/exits are
used, ladders, stairs, or recessed treads may be used in combination. All
entries/exits shall have slip-resistant surfaces.
a) Where water depth is 24 inches or less no means of entry/exit is
required.
b) For pools over 30 feet in width, both sides of the deep portions
shall have entries/exits.
c) Locate means of entry/exit strictly according to Palm Beach
County standards.
d) Ladders, stairs, recessed treads, or underwater benches/swimouts
shall be provided at the deep end of each swimming pool if the
water depth is over 5 feet.
The design and construction of all swimming pool stairs shall be as
follows:
a) Step treads shall have a minimum unobstructed horizontal depth of
10 inches and a minimum unobstructed surface area of 240 square
inches; and
b) Risers at the centerline of the treads shall have a maximum
uniform height of 12 inches with the bottom riser height allowed to
vary -+-2 inches from the uniform riser height; and
c) The vertical distance between the swimming pool coping edge,
deck, or step surface and the uppermost step tread shall be a
maximum of 12 inches; and
d) All flights of stairs having more than three risers above the
swimming pool floor shall be equipped with a handrail. Where
treads do not terminate into swimming pool wall, stairs shall be
protected by a handrail on the open side(s); and
e) Handrails, if removable, shall be installed in such a way that they
cannot be removed without the use of tools; and
f) The leading edge of handrails facilitating swimming pool
entry/exit shall be no more than 18 inches 4-3 inches horizontally
from the vertical plane of the bottom riser; and
g) The outside diameter of handrails shall be between 1 and 1.9
inches; and
h) Underwater seats, benches, or swimouts may be provided as part of
the stairs or recessed treads.
25-8
3)
4)
5)
6)
Art. V, §2
The design and construction of swimming pool ladders shall be as follows:
a) Ladders shall be made entirely of corrosion-resistant materials; and
b) Ladders shall provide 2 handholds or 2 handrails; and
c) Below the water level, provide a clearance of not more than 6
inches nor less than 3 inches between any ladder tread edge and
swimming pool wall; and
d) The clear distance between ladder handrails shall be a minimum of
17 inches and a maximum of 24 inches; and
e) There shall be a uniform height between ladder treads, with 7
inches minimum distance and 12 inches maximum distance; and
f) Ladder treads shall have a minimum horizontal depth of 1½ inches;
and
g) The vertical distance between the top tread and the swimming pool
coping or deck shall not exceed 12 inches.
The design and construction of recessed treads in the swimming pool wall
shall be as follows:
a) Recessed treads shall have a uniform vertical spacing of twelve
inches (12 ") maximum and seven inches (7") minimum at the
centerline; and
b) The vertical distance between the swimming pool coping edge,
deck, or step surface and the uppermost recessed tread shall not
exceed twelve inches (12"); and
c) Recessed treads shall have a minimum depth of five inches (5")
and a minimum width of twelve inches (12"); and
d) Recessed treads shall drain into the swimming pool to prevent
accumulation of dirt; and
e) Each set of recessed treads shall be provided with a set of
handrails/grabrails/handholds.
Supports, platforms, stairs, and ladders for manufactured diving equipment
shall be designed to carry the anticipated loads. Stairs and ladders shall be
of corrosion-resistant material, easily cleaned, and with slip-resistant
treads. All manufactured diving stands higher than 21 inches measured
from the deck to the top butt end of the board shall be provided with stairs
and/or ladder. Step treads shall be self-draining. ·
Manufactured Diving Equipment - Manufactured diving equipment shall
be designed for swimming pool use and shall be installed in accordance
with the manufacturer's recommendations, as follows:
a) Diving equipment manufacturers shall provide installation
instmctions and specifications with each unit.
25-9
7)
SPAS.
Art. V, §2
b) Manufactured diving equipment or jump board shall have a
permanent label which includes the following information:
manufacturer's name and address
board length
type of board (diving or jump board)
fulcrum setting specifications (if applicable)
applicable NSPI standard
c) Manufactured diving equipment suitable for installation on a lower
swimming pool type may be installed on any higher swimming
pool type providing no less a water envelope from the tip of the
board than called for in the lower type. Manufactured diving
equipment of a greater type shall not be installed on a swimming
pool of lesser type. Should manufactured diving equipment be
installed at any greater height than specified for the lower type
pool, water surface area and geometry shall be provided for the
type swimming pool which permits board installation at that
height.
d) Manufactured diving equipment shall have slip-resistant tread
surfaces.
e) Manufactured diving equipment shall be permanently anchored to
the swimming pool deck. The edge of the board at the tip end shall
be parallel with the water surface. The tip end of the board over
the swimming pool water surface may be higher than the butt end
of the board.
Swimming Pool Slides - The requirements o£the U. S. Consumer Product
Safety Commission (CPSC) Standard for Swimming Pool Slides as
published in the Code of Federal Regulations, 16CFR, Part 1207, shall be
used for standards relating to swimming pool slides. Installation and use
instructions shall be provided with each unit by the manufacturer.
1)
Spa steps, ladders or recessed treads shall be provided where water depths
are greater than 24 inches, as follows:
a) Step treads shall have a minimum unobstructed horizontal tread
depth often inches (10") for a minimum continuous width of
twelve inches (12").
b) Riser heights shall not be less than seven inches (7"), nor greater
than twelve inches (12"). When the bottom tread serves as a bench
or seat, the bottom riser may be a maximum of fourteen inches
(14").
25-10
Art. V, §2
2)
c)
d)
e)
Step-holes shall have a minimum tread of five inches (5") and a
minimum width of twelve inches (12").
Step-hole treads shall drain into the spa to prevent the
accumulation of dirt thereon.
Each set of recessed treads shall be provided with two handrails.
When water depth is greater than 24 inches, spas shall be provided with a
means to designate the point of entry and exit.
Section 1.
A.
ARTICLE VI. CIRCULATION
Circulation systems.
SYSTEM COMPONENTS. A circulation system consisting of pumps, piping,
return inlets and suction outlets, filter, and other necessary equipment shall be
provided for complete circulation of water through all parts of the pool.
PLUMBING CODE COMPLIANCE. Unless specified elsewhere in this Chapter,
all piping, equipment and materials used in the plumbing system of the swimming
pool/spa shall conform to the Standard Plumbing Code, as amended from time to
time.
TESTING. Circulation system components shall be approved by the National
Sanitation Foundation or other nationally recognized testing agency.
SIZING OF CIRCULATION SYSTEM.
1)
2)
Swimming pool equipment shall be of adequate size to completely re-
circulate swimming pool water capacity at least once every 12 hours.
Water clarity shall be maintained. When standing at the pool's edge at the
deep end, the deepest portion of the swimming pool floor shall be visible.
Spa equipment shall be sized to completely recirculate spa water capacity
at least once every hour and shall be capable of returning the spa water to a
turbidity of 0.50 NTU's at least once during the four hours following peak
bather load.
ACCESSIBILITY AND INSTALLATION. Circulation system components
which require replacement or servicing shall be accessible for inspection, repair,
or replacement, and shall be installed according to the manufacturer's instructions.
25-11
Art. VI, §1
EQUIPMENT MOUNTING. Swimming pool/spa equipment shall be properly
supported and anchored to concrete base or equivalent stable surface so as to
prevent damage from mis-alignment, settlement, etc. The equipment shall be
mounted so as to minimize potential for accumulation of debris and moisture, in
accordance with manufacturer's instructions.
WATER VELOCITY. Water velocity in swimming pool/spa piping shall not
exceed ten feet (10') per second for discharge piping and eight feet (8') per second
for suction piping, unless calculations are provided to show that greater flow is
possible with the pump and piping provided. In copper pipes, the velocity shall
not exceed eight feet (8') per second for both suction and discharge piping.
Swimming pool/spa piping shall be sized to permit the rated flows for filtering
and cleaning without exceeding the maximum head of the pump.
DRAINAGE. Equipment shall be designed and fabricated to drain the swimming
pool/spa water from the equipment and exposed face piping by removal of drain
plugs and manipulating valves, or by other acceptable methods. Refer to
manufacturer's recommendations.
GAUGES. A pressure or vacuum gauge or other system condition indicator shall
be provided in the circulation system in a readable and accessible location.
EQUIPMENT CONTROLS. Circulation system shall be capable of maintaining
water clarity and water chemistry guidelines published as Chapter 20 of the
current Palm Beach County Swimming Pool and Spa Code. Time clocks may be
used to govern the operating period and the operating time of appurtenant devices
such as chemical/disinfectant feeders, slurry feeders, heaters, etc., that are
dependent upon circulation pump flow.
OPERATING INSTRUCTION. Written operating and maintenance instructions
for the circulation systems shall be provided by the contractor to the owner.
Section 1.
A.
ARTICLE VII. FILTERS
Filter construction.
CLARITY. Filters shall be designed so that the system can provide the water
clarity required in Article VI, and so that filtration surfaces can be inspected and
serviced. Each filter system shall be provided with a visual means or gauge to
observe when the filter element is in need of servicing.
25-12
Art. VII, §1
PRESSURE RELIEF. Provide means to release internal pressure on pressure-
type filters.
1)
2)
Any filter incorporating an automatic internal air release device shall have
lids which provide a slow and safe release of pressure.
Any separation tank used in conjunction with any filter tank shall have a
manual means of air release or a lid which provides a slow and safe release
of pressure as it is opened.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS. Pressure filters and separation tanks shall have
safety operation instructions permanently installed on the filter or separation tank
and shall include a statement warning not to start up the system after maintenance
without first opening the air release and reassembling the filter and separation
tank. The statement shall be visible and noticeable near the air release.
PIPING. Piping furnished with the filter shall be capable of withstanding 1 ½
times the working pressure for pools and 3 times the working pressure for spas.
Suction piping shall not collapse when there is a complete shutoff of flow on the
suction side of the pump.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY CODE. Specific requirements of the Florida Energy
Efficiency Code, 1990 are included herein by reference.
Section 1.
A.
ARTICLE VIII. PUMPS & MOTORS
Pumps.
CIRCULATING PUMP. A pump and motor shall be provided for circulation of
swimming pool/spa water. Performance of all pumps shall meet or exceed the
conditions of flow required for filtering and cleaning (if applicable) the filters
against the dynamic head developed by the total system.
FILTERING. Provide a cleanable strainer or screen upstream of the circulation
pumps to remove solids, debris, hair, lint, etc. The basket of the strainer shall be
non-corrosive and have a screen surface of 4 times the cross section of the inlet
pipe.
ACCESSIBILITY. Pumps and motors shall be accessible for inspection and
service.
25-13
Art. VHI, §1
Section 2.
PUMP REMOVAL. Where the pump is below the waterline, valves shall be
installed on permanently connected suction and discharge lines, located in an
accessible place outside the walls of the pool, where they shall be readily and
easily accessible for maintenance and removal of the pump.
Motors.
MOTOR CAPACITY. Motors shall be capable of operating the pump under full
load with a voltage variation of±10 % from the nameplate rating. If the
maximum service factor of the motor is exceeded (at full voltage), the
manufacturer shall indicate this on the pump curve.
OVERLOAD PROTECTION. All motors shall have thermal or current overload
protection, either built in or in the line starter, to provide locked rotor and running
protection.
Section 1.
ARTICLE IX. INLETS & OUTLETS
Return inlets and suction outlets.
Return inlets and suction outlets shall be provided and arranged to produce a uniform
circulation of water and maintain a uniform disinfectant residual throughout the entire pool.
Where skimmers are used, the return inlets shall be located so as to help bring floating particles
within range of the skimmers, recognizing prevailing wind direction in Boynton Beach.
A. RETURN INLETS.
1)
2)
The number of return inlets shall be based on a minimum of 1 return inlet
per 600 square feet of swimming pool/spa surface area, or fraction thereof,
but in no case fewer than 2. Return inlet fittings shall be installed of
sufficient pipe size or quantity to allow a full design turnover rate of the
circulation system in accordance with the manufacturer's
recommendations.
Return inlets shall not constitute a hazard to the bather.
SUCTION OUTLETS.
1)
2)
Velocity through suction outlets shall not exceed 1½ feet per second.
Swimming pool/spa operation is prohibited if the suction outlet grate is
missing, broken, or secured in such a way that it can be removed without
the use of tools.
25-14
Art. XIII, §1
PIPING SYSTEMS.
1)
2)
3)
Heater gas supply piping and pipe sizes shall comply with the Standard
Gas Code as amended from time to time, and with the manufacturer's
recommendations. Supply line shall run from meter to heater as directly
as practical.
Heater circulation system shall comply with the manufacturer's
recommendations. Avoid back-siphoning of hot water into the pump or
filter. Heater piping shall be designed to avoid excessive friction losses
through the pipe and/or bypass valves. Insure adequate flow through the
heater at all times during valve installation.
Install the water piping system according to manufacturer's
recommendations. Avoid back-siphoning to prevent damage. Provide a
metal pipe heat sink for ali plastic piping within 4 feet of a heater unless
the manufacturer's instructions do not recommend one. If a heat sink is
used it shall be a vertical section of metal (or other approved pipe) from
the heater colmection to ground level with a metal valve at the bottom.
Connect to plastic piping with an elbow.
BYPASS VALVES. Adequate provisions shall be made so that a heater does not
cause excessive pressure drop to the filter system. Refer to manufacturer's
requirements and/or recommendations for installation of bypass valves. Provide
adequate flow through the heater at all times.
Section 1.
Source.
ARTICLE XIV. WATER
Water supply serving any pool shall be installed in accordance with AWWA Standards.
Section 2. Backflow prevention.
No direct mechanical connection shall be made between the potable water supply and the
swimming pool/spa, chlorinating equipment, or the system of piping for the pool, unless it is
protected against backflow and back-siphonage in accordance with the Standard Plumbing Code,
as amended, or through an air gap meeting the latest American National Standards Institute
Standard (Al 12.1.2).
25-18
Art. IX, §1
3)
4)
Each suction outlet shall protect against bather entrapment by either:
a) An antivortex cover;
b) A 12" x 12" or larger grate;
c) An equalizer vent; or
d) Other means approved by the Director of Development.
Where provided, vacuum cleaner fittings shall be located in an accessible
position at least six inches (6") and not greater than eighteen inches (18")
below the minimum operating water level or as an attachment to the
skimmer.
MAIN DRAIN. Place a main drain at the deepest point in every swimming
pool/spa. Minimum size for a pool is 2 inches, and for a spa 1¼ inches.
PIPING AND FITTINGS. All piping and fittings shall be a minimum of schedule
40 pvc.
ARTICLE X. AIR INDUCTION SYSTEMS
An air induction system, when provided, shall prevent water back-up that could cause
electrical shock hazards. Intake sources shall be positioned so as to minimize contaminants
(such as deck water, dirt, etc.) and integral air passages shall be pressure tested at time of
manufacture to provide structural integrity for a value of 1½ times the intended working
pressure.
ARTICLE XI. SURFACE OVERFLOW
Section 1. Surface OVerflow systems.
Surface water removal from pools shall be by continuous perimeter overflow gutters or
recessed automatic surface skimmer systems, as follows:
A. PERIMETER OVERFLOW GUTTERS.
1) The lip of the gutter shall be uniformly level with a maximum tolerance
of ¼ inch between the high and low points. The bottom of the gutter shall
be level or sloped towards the drain(s). The spacing between drains shall
not exceed 10 feet for 2" drains or 15 feet for 2½" drains..
2) Perimeter overflow gutters, when used as the only overflow system, must
extend around the swimming pool/spa a minimum of 50%. Gutter shall be
designed with a surge capacity of 1 gal/square foot of swimming pool/spa
surface.
25-15
Art. XI, §1
3)
4)
5)
6)
Both fully recessed and open "roll out" gutters are acceptable. Other
designs may be approved by the Director of Development. Fully recessed
gutters shall have a minimum depth of 4" and a minimum width of 4".
Open gutters shall have a minimum depth of 6" and a minimum width of
12", with a slope of 2" ( 4- ¼,,) from lip to drain.
No part of a fully recessed gutter shall protrude beyond a point plumb
from the deck or curb.
Locate gutter drains at the deepest part of the gutter.
The perimeter overflow gutter system shall convey 100% of the
recirculation flow to the collector tank by gravity with a maximum
velocity of three feet (3') per second. The main drain shall flow into the
collector tank at 100% of the recirculation flow.
SURFACE SKIMMER SYSTEMS.
1)
2)
3)
4)
S)
Provide a surface skimming system on all residential swimming
pools/spas, designed and constructed to skim the surface when the water
level is within the operational parameters of the system's rim or weir
device.
Skimming devices shall not be hazardous to bathers.
Skimmers shall be approved by the National Sanitation Foundation or
other nationally recognized testing agency.
Automatic surface skimmers shall be provided as follows:
a) For swimming pools where automatic surface skimmers are used
as the sole overflow system, at least 1 surface skimmer shall be
provided for each 600 square feet or fraction thereof of the water
surface area. Nominal recessed areas such as stairs, swimouts,
spas, etc., shall not be considered in the calculation. Locate
skimmers to maintain effective skimming action over the entire
surface of the pool. Where multiple skimmers are used they shall
be equipped with a means of adjustment in order to provide for a
uniform flow for each one.
b) For spas where surface skimmers are used as the sole overflow
system, one surface skimmer shall be provided for each 200 square
feet or fraction thereof of the water surface area. When two or
more skimmers are used, they shall be located to maintain effective
skimming action over the.entire surface area of the spa.
Skimmers shall have a design minimum flow rate of 20 gallons per
minute. The total flow rate of all skimmers in a given swimming pool/spa
shall be between 75% and 85% of the required filter flow rate of the
circulating system.
25-16
6)
7)
Art. XI, §1
Equip skimmers with a floating weir within an operating range of not less
than 4 inches.
Equip skimmers with a removable basket or screen.
ARTICLE XII. ELECTRICAL
Electrical components shall be installed in accordance with the current edition of the
National Electrical Code.
ARTICLE XIII. HEATERS
Section 1. Pool and spa heaters.
Swimming pool/spa heaters shall be tested and approved by a nationally recognized
testing laboratory and comply with the appropriate current nationally recognized standards such
as the American National Standards Institute, Underwriters Laboratories, American Gas
Association or American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
A. SIZING. Select properly sized heater from the manufacturer's charts.
INSTALLATION. Install heaters in accordance with the Standard Gas and
Mechanical Code, as amended from time to time, and with the manufacturer's
recommendations.
1)
2)
3)
Anchor heater to a concrete base or equivalent stable surface unless it is
specifically designed otherwise.
Maintain adequate clearances on all sides and over the top of the heater.
Consult manufacturer's instructions for proper clearances.
Heater shall have adequate ventilation to assure proper combustion.
a) When installing a heater indoors provide adequate combustion air.
Install in accordance with state and local codes and the
manufacturer's recommendations.
b) Install draft or venting devices on fossil fuel heaters according to
manufacturer's recommendations without modification.
c) The maximum temperature of spa water shall be 104° F (40° C). A
thermostatic device to control water temperature is required.
25-17
Art. XIV, §3
Section 3. Fill pipe.
An over-the-rim spout, if used, shall be located under a diving board, adjacent to a ladder,
or in an otherwise protected area so as not to create a hazard. Open end shall have no sharp
edges and shall not protrude more than two inches (2") beyond the edge of the pool.
Section 1.
ARTICLE XV. WASTER WATER
Cross-connections.
Direct or indirect connections between a swimming pool/spa and any public storm drain
or drainage system or private septic system are prohibited. Pools shall not discharge into any
body of water.
Section 2. Disposal.
When waste water from a swimming pool/spa is to be disposed of through a public sewer,
a three inch (3") P-trap shall be installed on the lower terminus of the building drain and the tail
piece from the trap shall extend a minimum of three inches (3") above finished grade and
terminate below finished floor grade. This trap need not be vented. Use an indirect connection
between the filter waste discharge piping and the P-trap.
ARTICLE XVI. EQUIPMENT
Section 1. Equipment and feeders.
Disinfectant equipment, oxidation equipment, and chemical feeders referred to in this
section jointly as "equipment" shall comply with National Sanitation Foundation Standard 50
(November 1985). Disinfection equipment and chemical feeders shall precisely introduce a
sufficient quantity of an approved disinfecting agent or other chemical to maintain appropriate
chemical balance.
mo
CHEMICAL FEEDERS. Use good engineering practices and manufacturer's
instructions in installing chemical feeders. Installation and use of chemical
feeders shall conform to the following:
1)
2)
Install chemical feeders downstream from filter and heater. Exception:
equipment designed to feed to suction side of pump.
If the chemical feeder is equipped with its own pump, install so that gas or
solution is introduced downstream from heater and, if possible, at a
position lower than heater outlet fitting.
25-19
Art. XVI, §1
3)
Wire chemical feed pumps so they cannot operate unless filter pump is
running. If chlorinator has an independent timer, filter and chemical feed
pump timers shall be interlocked.
OZONE GENERATING EQUIPMENT. Ozone generating equipment shall be
limited to low ozone output type. Installation and use of ozone generating
equipment shall conform to the following:
1)
2)
3)
4)
Install ozone generating equipment to allow easy observation of operation
or malfunction indicators. Install equipment so that a malfunction will not
endanger operators or swimming pool/spa users.
Ozone generating equipment may be used in conjunction with other
chemical treatments to meet chemical operating parameters. Normal
maintenance and monitoring procedures shall be followed or
If the equipment is capable of exposing maintenance or service personnel
to ozone concentrations exceeding 500 ppm, a self-contained breathing
apparatus approved for ozone usage shall be provided. The equipment
shall be periodically inspected and repaired by qualified service personnel.
Good engineering practices and manufacturer's recommendations shall be
followed to determine where and how ozone shall be injected.
ARTICLE XVII. SAFETY
Section 1. Pool/spa safety.
A residential swimming pool/spa shall be provided with a suitable handhold around its
perimeter in areas where depths exceed 3 feet 6 inches as described in Article IV, Section 2,
Paragraph C.
Section 2. Pool marking.
All sides of commercial/public swimming pools less than six feet (6') deep shall be
permanently marked with the water depth of the area. Markers shall be placed on the swimming
pool side at the water line or on the deck immediately adjacent to the swimming pool wall.
ARTICLE XVIII. BARRIERS
Section 1. Residential swimming pool/spa barriers.
Residential swimming pools/spas shall comply with Section 3. Exception: A portable
spa with a safety cover which complies with ASTM ES 13-89 standard on covers.
25-20
Art. XVIII, §2
Section 2. Commercial swimming pool/spa barriers.
All public swimming pools/spas shall be completely surrounded by a barrier in
accordance with Section 3, except the barrier height shall be 72 inches.
Section 3. Barrier details.
Ao
OPENINGS. Openings in barriers shall not allow the passage of a four inch (4")
diameter sphere.
HEIGHT. The top of the barrier shall be at least 60 inches above finished grade
measured on the side of the barrier which faces away from the swimming
pool/spa. Maximum vertical clearance between fmished grade and the bottom of
the barrier shall be two inches (2") measured on the side of the barrier which faces
away from the swimming pool/spa. Where the top of the swimming pool/spa
structure is above grade, such as an aboveground pool, the barrier may be at
ground level, such as the swimming pool/spa structure, or mounted on top of the
swimming pool/spa structure. Where the barrier is mounted on the top of the
swimming pool/spa structure, the maximum vertical clearance between the top of
the swimming pool/spa structure and the bottom of the barrier shall be four inches
(4").
SCREEN ENCLOSURES. Where screen enclosures are used as a barrier, a
substantial material shall be mounted over or in place of the screen, on the bottom
30 inches of the enclosure to prevent ingress in the event the screen is displaced.
SOLID BARRIERS. Solid barriers which do not have openings, such as a
masonry or stone wall, shall not contain indentations or protrusions except for
normal construction tolerances and tooled masonry joints.
FENCES.
l)
Where the barrier is composed of horizontal and vertical members and the
distance between the tops of the horizontal members is less than 45 inches,
the horizontal members shall be located on the swimming pool/spa side of
the fence. Spacing between vertical members shall not exceed 1 3/4
inches in width. Where there are decorative cutouts within vertical
members, spacing within the cutouts shall not exceed 1 3/4 inches in
width.
25-21
Art. XVIII, §3
2)
3)
4)
Where the barrier is composed of horizontal and vertical members and the
distance between the tops of the horizontal members is 45 inches or more,
spacing between vertical members shall not exceed four inches (4").
Where there are decorative cutouts within vertical members, spacing
within the cutouts shall not exceed 1 3/4 inches in width.
Maximum mesh size for chain link fences shall be a 1¼ inch square unless
the fence is provided with slats fastened at the top or the bottom which
reduce the openings to no more than 1 3/4 inches.
Where the barrier is composed of diagonal members, such as a lattice
fence, the maximum opening formed by the diagonal members shall be no
more than 1 3/4 inches.
GATES. Access doors/gates shall comply with the requirements of Section 3 and
shall be self-closing, self-latching and equipped to accommodate a locking device.
Pedestrian access doors/gates shall open over a stabilized surface and shall be
self-closing and have a self-latching device. Gates other than pedestrian access
doors/gates shall have a latching and locking device. Where the release
mechanism of the self-latching device is located less than 54 inches from the
bottom of the door/gate, the release mechanism shall be lOcated on the swimming
pool/spa side of the door/gate at least three inches (3") below the top of the gate,
and the gate and barrier shall have no opening greater than ½ inch within 18
inches of the release mechanism.
ABOVE GROUND POOLS/SPAS. Where an aboveground swimming pool/spa
structure is used as a barrier or where the barrier is mounted on top of the
swimming pool/spa structure, and the means of access is a ladder or steps, then
the ladder or steps shall be capable of being secured, locked or removed to prevent
access, or the ladder or steps shall be surrounded by a barrier which meets the
requirements of Section 3. When the ladder or steps are secured, locked, or
removed, any opening created shall not allow the passage of a four inch (4")
diameter sphere.
COMBINATION BARRIERS. Barriers around swimming pools/spas may
consist of building, dwelling, barrier or stand alone walls; screened enclosures;
fences; or combinations thereof, but all shall comply with the specific technical
standards contained in this Chapter.
BUILDING OR DWELLING WALL. Where a building or dwelling wall serves
as a barrier, or part of a barrier, to a pool/spa, provide protection to limit or delay
access to pool/spa through doors or windows in the wall with a sill height less
than 48".
25-22
Art. XVIII, §3
J. WINDOWS AND DOORS.
1)
2)
Doors in the wall of a building/dwelling which allow direct access through
the wall to the pool or spa area shall be provided with one of the
following:
a) An audible alarm(s) on all doors of the building/dwelling opening
directly to the pool or spa area. Alarms shall comply with the
performance criteria of UL 2017.
b) A self-latching device on a self-closing door which is either:
i) At least 54 inches above floor level, or
ii) At any convenient height if the device uses a key,
electronic opener or integral combination lock, so long as it
does not negate the function of the door.
c) Fabric fences known as "kiddie fences" a minimum of 48 inches
high, between the door and pool.
Windows in the wall of a building/dwelling which allow direct access
through the wall to the pool or spa area and are located 4 feet or higher
above floor level, and where there is no foothold in the building/dwelling
wall, shall be exempt. Where the lowest opening in the window is less
than 4 feet above floor level, the window shall comply with one of the
following requirements:
a) Window guards, screens or other means of equal protection, shall
limit access such that there are no openings large enough to allow a
4 inch sphere to pass through, or
b) Windows shall be fixed in such a way that they will not open
sufficiently far to create a gap which will allow a 4 inch sphere to
pass through, or
c) The lowest opening panel of a window shall be located not less
than 4 feet above the floor and there shall be no footholds on the
internal wall down to approximately 3 1/2 feet below the lowest
opening panel.
Section 4. Pre-existing barriers.
Existing fences and screen enclosures which were permitted and in conformance with the
Swimming Pool Code at time of permitting are not required to comply with the provisions of this
Chapter, provided they are still in proper working order.
Section 5. Natural barriers.
Natural features such as bulkheads, canals and lakes may be suitable for use as a barrier,
subject to approval by the Director of Development, if the barrier is not subject to natural change,
or the barrier will not be a danger to swimmers or bathers, or the barrier will provide the same
degree of protection as intended by this Chapter.
2S-23
Art. XVIII, {}6
Section 6. Conflicts.
In the event there is a conflict between this chapter and zoning chapters 2 or 2.5, the
conflict shall be resolved in favor of the zoning chapter.
Section 7. Construction barriers.
During the construction of a swimming pool/spa, a temporary five foot fence shall be
required completely around the excavated area. This fence shall remain in place until a
permanent barrier is installed and a Certificate of Completion is issued for the pool.
Section 8. Supplemental protection.
A residential indoor swimming pool or spa shall be provided with a means, or a
combination of means, to exclude children from the pool or spa area in compliance with this
chapter.
Section 1.
A.
ARTICLE XIX. STANDARDS & GUIDELINES
Required standards.
FLORIDA CODE. Compliance with Florida Energy Efficiency Code, 1990, as it
relates to swimming pool/spa temperature controls and pipe insulation, is
required.
DRAWINGS. Drawings and diagrams, figures 1 through 11 inclusive from the
1994 Palm Beach County Swimming Pool and Spa Code, are incorporated herein
by reference, as are ledge diagram 401.1.7 from the same code and the diagram
entitled Figures of Barriers for Swimming Pools and Spas, figures 1 through 5
inclusive.
Section 2.
GLOSSARY. Chapter 19, Glossary of Inground Swimming Pool/Spa Terms from
the 1994 Palm Beach County Swimming Pool and Spa Code, is incorporated
herein by reference.
Optional guidelines.
CHEMICALS.
1)
2)
Chlorine Manual is published by and available from the Chlorine Institute,
Inc, 2001 L Street N.W., Washington, D.C. Telephone: (202) 775-2790.
Operational parameters for proper chemical treatment and maintenance of
swimming pool/spa waters are available in the Department of
Development.
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25-24