The 7th Edition (2020) Florida Building Code went into effect December 31, 2020.

There are three major changes to watch out for in the 2017 NEC. First, gas swimming pool heaters now require a GFCI breaker. Second, any method of wiring found in Chapter 3 of the 2017 NEC can be used for pool and spa equipment in “non-corrosive areas.” Swimming Pool and Spa Contractors should consult with their local building department and Electrical Contractors to ensure proper compliance with these new electrical standards.

Third, in addition to several changes to the commercial swimming pool and spa building code, the 2017 Florida Building Code also brought definitive resolution on the issue of elevating swimming pool and spa equipment when building in a flood zone.

During the code modification process over the last two years, the Florida Swimming Pool Association (FSPA) successfully fought to modify Section R322.1.6 of the Residential Building Code and Section 1612.4.2 of the Florida Building Code. Now the codes expressly permit pool and spa equipment to be installed below the base flood elevation.

These code changes, along with the FSPA floodplain guidance document adopted by the Department of Emergency Management last spring, bring long awaited resolution to an issue that has been concerning to FSPA for many years.

Swimming pool and spa equipment will now be allowed to be installed at grade in flood zones in Florida. The full text of the modifications can be found at the Department of Emergency Management guidance document at https://portal. floridadisaster.org/mitigation/SFMP/ External/Community%20Resources/ Community%20Guidance%20and%20 Quick%20Guide%20for%20FPM/ Interim%20Pool%20Guidance.pdf.

Contact FSPA Government Affairs Manager: Dallas Thiesen at 941-952-9293 or Dallas@FloridaPoolPro.com.