Building Officials Association of Florida
Protecting Lives and Property since 1953

Interpretation #8840

Published October 26, 2023

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Original Request

Code Version
2021
Code
RESIDENT
Code Description
Chapter
Section
R4501.17.1.9
Topic
Vehicle access gates as part of the fence pool barrier

Question

Is it the intent of the code to allow two swinging vehicle access gates to not have to meet the same requirements as pedestrian gates?

Answer Published 10/26/2023 at 10:20 AM

In the text of the code and statute, there is no exception to the self-closing, self-latching provision contained in FBCR section R4501.17.1.8 nor F.S. 515.29(3).

Commentary

R4501.1.8 is clear that access gates, when provided, shall, open outward away from the pool, be self-closing, self-latching and locking. The barrier requirement in chapter 45 of the Residential volume does not differentiate between a pedestrian gate and a vehicular gate.