Interpretation #7622
Published September 16, 2015
Original Request
- Code Version
- 2014
- Code
- RESIDENT
- Code Description
- Chapter
- Section
- 322.3.3.1
- Topic
- Pools in coastal high hazard area
Question
Is it the intent of the "Florida Building Code 322.3.3.1 Pools, which requires pools in coastal high hazard areas to be designed and constructed in conformance with ASCE 24, 9.5 Pools, to require for 9.5 (3), that a pool be in the ground relatively flush with the ground profile at the top of the pool deck?
Answer Published 09/16/2015 at 11:25 AM
No, the pools described would not be considered in the
ground. One concern here is keeping the pool in the ground,
but an increase in the flood elevation in the area caused by
the pool is a large concern as well.
ground. One concern here is keeping the pool in the ground,
but an increase in the flood elevation in the area caused by
the pool is a large concern as well.
Commentary
See Deemed to Comply Table A in FEMA Guide to ASCE 24, which
reads as follows:
9.5 Pools
Pools must resist all flood load requirements. If attached
to the structure, the pool must act as a continuation of the
structure. In V Zones or Coastal A Zones, if the pool is
attached to the structure, it must be above the DFE and
be elevated per Section 4.4 or be designed to break away
during flooding without producing damaging debris.
May cause significant cost increases for pools attached to
the structure. These are ineligible costs for a HMA project,
so pool requirements are the responsibility of the homeowner
and must be funded by the homeowner.