Covid-19 hit the world out of nowhere. The entire world has had to learn and share what they know. Unfortunately, not all information we see on the web is accurate. So, we choose to learn and take the advice from an expert, Roberta Lavin, a professor of medicine at the University of Tennessee’s College of Nursing.

The covid-19 virus is transmitted via tiny droplets of spit and mucus that may be expelled when coughing and sneezing. These droplets can speed undetected from person to person, causing an infection after the virus enters a person’s eyes, nose, or mouth, thus “It’s actually a respiratory virus,” Lavin says.

Although this method of transmission is most common, science it still debating the specifics of this new, Coronavirus. “The question remains about all the modes of transmission, which we don’t know at this point. However, it’s not believed that it’s transmitted by water,” Lavin says.

Pools with suggested chlorine levels would frankly kill the virus. So, if you maintain your pool properly, the disinfecting chemicals should be enough to inactivate the virus.

The CDC reported on March 10 that “there is no evidence that COVID-19 can be spread to humans through the use of pools and hot tubs. Proper operation, maintenance, and disinfection (e.g., with chlorine and bromine) of pools and hot tubs should remove or inactivate the virus that causes COVID-19.”

While covid-19 is still ongoing spread throughout the world and your community, we encourage you to take the steps necessary to ensure health and safety:

• Everyone should follow local and state guidance that may determine when and how recreational water facilities may operate.
• Individuals should continue to protect themselves and others at recreational water venues both in and out of the water – for example, by practicing social distancing and good hand hygiene.
• In addition to ensuring water safety and quality, owners and operators of community pools, hot tubs, spas, and water play areas should follow the interim guidance for businesses and employers for cleaning and disinfecting their community facilities.

With this ‘new normal’ of covis-19 still spreading, what does this mean for summertime swimming?

If you own your own backyard swimming pool, we recommend only allowing your household members to utilize the pool. Being around other people while using the pool and its amenities is a different concern that if the water contains the virus. Maintaining your distance from others, is the key to safety. As well as touching the railings, ladders, etc. to enter and/or exit the pool.

Public pools are closed at this time because of these concerns.

Resources: CDC.gov, swimmingpool.com, usms.org

READ >>> Preparing Your Pool for a Hurricane

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Cinco De Mayo brings a lot of fun and laughter but even more delicious food! Embrace the day and make some of the best food while you enjoy a dunk in your pool. Below we offer a few of our favorite recipes that you can grab and go!  The perfect finger foods to enjoy while you are enjoying your backyard swimming pool.

 

Taco Pinwheels

Ingredients:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup Seasoned Taco Meat
• 1/4 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup salsa
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons chopped ripe olives
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
• 5 flour tortillas (8 inches), room temperature
• 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
• Additional salsa

Directions

• In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the taco meat, cheese, salsa, mayonnaise, olives and onion. Spread over tortillas. Sprinkle with lettuce; roll up tightly. Wrap securely and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
• Unwrap and cut into 1-in. pieces. Serve with additional salsa.

 

Fresh Lime Margaritas

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup tequila
• 1/4 cup Triple Sec
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons superfine sugar
• 4 lime wedges
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1-1/3 cups crushed ice

Directions

• In a pitcher, combine first five ingredients; stir until sugar is dissolved. Moisten rims of 4 margarita or cocktail glasses with lime wedges. Sprinkle salt on a plate; dip rims in salt. Serve in prepared glasses over crushed ice.

– For Frozen Strawberry Margaritas: Follow directions for Frozen Lime Margaritas, except add 2 cups frozen unsweetened strawberries and reduce crushed ice to 2 cups. Yield: 4 cups.

 

Grilled Guacamole

Ingredients

• 1 medium red onion, cut into 1/2-inch slices
• 2 plum tomatoes, halved and seeded
• 1 jalapeno pepper, halved and seeded
• 2 tablespoons canola oil, divided
• 3 medium ripe avocados, halved and pitted
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• Tortilla chips

Directions

• In a large bowl, combine onion, tomatoes, pepper and 1 tablespoon oil; gently toss to coat. Grill, covered, over medium-high heat or broil 4 in. from heat 6-8 minutes or until tender and charred, turning occasionally. Brush avocados with remaining oil. Grill or broil avocados, cut side down, 4-6 minutes or until charred. Cool vegetables completely.
• Chop onion, tomatoes and pepper; set aside. Peel avocados; transfer to a large bowl and mash with a fork. Stir in vegetables, cilantro, lime juice, cumin and salt. Serve immediately with chips.

Note: Wear disposable gloves when cutting hot peppers; the oils can burn skin. Avoid touching your face.

 

Mini Chimichangas


Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 envelope taco seasoning
• 3/4 cup water
• 3 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chiles, drained
• 1 package (1 pound) egg roll wrappers (14 count)
• 1 large egg white, lightly beaten
• Oil for deep-fat frying
• Salsa and additional sour cream

Directions

• In a large skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in taco seasoning and water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat; cool slightly.
• In a large bowl, combine the cheese, sour cream and chiles. Stir in beef mixture. Place an egg roll wrapper on work surface with one point facing you. Place 1/3 cup filling in center. Fold bottom third of wrapper over filling; fold in sides.
• Brush top point with egg white; roll up to seal. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling. (Keep remaining egg roll wrappers covered with waxed paper to avoid drying out.)
• In a deep cast-iron or electric skillet, heat 1 in. of oil to 375°. Fry chimichangas on each side or until golden brown, 1-1/2 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Serve warm with salsa and sour cream.We would love to hear your results and how the dishes turned out for you. Please give feedback on the above recipes or share any ideas you have.

  Thank you Taste of Home for your beautiful recipes and images.

  Read more >>> 5 Summertime Pool Safety Tips

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The year 2020 has brought many things to us so far, seems this year is a year of new experiences and patience. The joys of staying home more often is enjoying your pool to the fullest and the latest products out there. All items can be bought online and shipped to your house, so sit back, review and then shop!

Metal Magic Spot Stain Chalk

ProTeam now offers a revolutionary new way to remove tough stains from pool and spa surfaces with its new Metal Magic Spot Stain Chalk. Simply scrub chalk directly to the problem area to remove stains quickly. Safe for all hard surfaces including plaster, vinyl, tile, concrete and fiberglass. Unused chalk can be dried and reused. Includes two 9-ounce chalk tablets per container.

proteampoolcare.com

Pool Refresh

inSPAration created a new water de-odorizer, that helps remove ‘pool smell’, that metallic chlorine odor called Pool Refresh. Pool Refresh also leaves your skin and hair feeling soft, not dry and itchy, from pool water minerals, salts and chlorine. Reviews have told us after you swim the smell of chlorine on your skin is gone and didn’t dry out the skin after longer swims.

https://www.amazon.com/inSPAration-Pool-Refresh-480-20oz/dp/B01HPRYMBI

Big Joe Pool Floats

A newer company, Big Joe has a fresh take on a wide array of fun and colorful pool floats and furniture. Inside are EPS foam beads (Megahh Beans) that fill the inside of Big Joe pool floats and pool chairs.

Always adding new products, they have a lot of new and exciting designs to check out. The latest would be the Pool Petz, a kids line. Also the Teardrop chairs and Roma Float Loungers.

https://buybigjoe.com/outdoor/floats.html

Cyborg Pool Cleaner

With a 1-year warranty, this new Cyborg Pool cleaner runs off the suction from your in-ground pull pump. A two-wheeled design with kinetic gearing system, large turbine wheel, and a tabbed skirt on the bottom that maintains suction while moving over debris, uneven floor areas, or pool fittings.

The Cyborg pool cleaner comes with 40 ft of hose, skimmer attachments, hose weights and has a cleaner with indicator light, to let you know it’s working.

https://www.amazon.com/Cyborg-Inground-Automatic-Pool-Cleaner/dp/B07SX5T1CJ/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

Oyster Shell Float

Oprah Approved. Whether you pretend to be a mermaid or a pearl, one thing is for sure: Fun and relaxation await with this iridescent pool float. Enjoy our iridescent and pearl white oyster shell built for two.

• Constructed of 100% PVC
• Pearl white base with Iridescent paneling along shell edges
• Integrated handles for stability and mounting
• Electric Air Pump and Repair Kit Included

https://www.frontgate.com/oyster-shell-float/1171501?searchTerm=SUGGESTION%20%E2%80%93%20Oyster%20Shell%20Float

Pool Buoy Plus Floating Umbrella

This fully adjustable umbrella comes with an open pool buoy and is quite convenient to use. The fact that it is a UV rated umbrella makes it offer a better value for your money. Has a built in wind vent and also comes with a ShadeLoc. The lock ensures the umbrella stays securely attached to the tabletop.

The float buoy tabletop is durable and performs nicely, and is built with good quality ABS plastic. The tabletop is capable of holding up to 38 pounds above water. It also comes equipped with five cup holders. The umbrella with tabletop is up to 5ft and 7 inches.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BEU9NAW/?tag=momtool0e-20

ECEEN Waterproof Speakers

The new ECEEN Waterproof Speakers are powerful wireless floating speakers that are shockproof and dustproof. Its floating design is quite impressive and ensures that the speaker stays floated while playing music – you can leave it submerged in 3ft of water for up to half an hour without experiencing any issues.

The sound quality is nice and the connectivity is reasonably good. You can connect it to your smartphone or computer in 5 seconds. The only issue some users have reported is related to long distance connection. Offers a playtime of up to five hours

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0731GF7NM/?tag=momtool0e-20

 

We would love to hear your feedback on the products above or anything new you may know about. Comment below!

Read more >>> Preparing Your Pool for a Hurricane

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Swimming and/or water exercise can be a huge benefit to your health. With the resistance of the water, it makes your entire body work. It also removes gravity so it’s not so hard on your joints and lessens the impact.

Swimming is a great all-round exercise that provides a great full body workout. There are numerous benefits to enjoying a water workout. For one, it keeps your heart rate up, it’s an excellent source of cardio. Another benefit to working out in the water is it allows us to float so it takes off the impact stress of more common workout routines. It also builds endurance, muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness, all while maintaining a healthy weight, heart and lungs.

Swimming laps in your pool is not the only workout you can use your pool for. There are many different variations of exercises that target certain areas or help relieve pressure off other areas. A few examples would be walking laps, treading water, or basic noodle exercises.

There are many other ways a pool can improve your health, that go beyond a simple exercise.
We list a few below:
• Alleviating stress
• Improving coordination, balance and posture
• Improving flexibility
• perfect low-impact therapy for injuries
• relaxing, peaceful form of exercise

Overall, water is known for its calming, peaceful effects. Better sleep, reducing stress and anxiety, and relieves depression. A nice yoga session along the side of your pool will do you wonders. Explore, enjoy it to the fullest!

Read more >>> 5 Summertime Pool Safety Tips

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There are three different types of in-ground pools that are offered in Florida. Below we inform you on what each provides or doesn’t provide for you and your families needs.

Concrete

Concrete in-ground pools are the most common. A concrete swimming pool is an entirely customized pool solution. You can install it virtually anywhere and provide you with limitless design options. You can select the depth, shape, and size, and incorporate features like steps, vanishing edges, beach entries and much more. Finishing choices include vinyl lining, colored quartz, ceramic tiles, natural pebble and a variety of other finishes. Concrete lasts for years, so your maintenance will be minimal.

Concrete and plaster were the first in-ground pool building materials used when residential pools first became popular. Why does it work so well? The plaster shell holds water well, provides stability, and can be re-plastered when needed, providing a longer life. Concrete is durable and porous.

Alternative finishes can be added to concrete or plaster, like tile or stone.  For example, Pebble Tec, a glass option can last about 8 to 12 years! These options can bring a unique artist or natural style to your pool design.

Fiberglass

Typically, fiberglass pools are made in factories and delivered to your home. They are offered in specific shapes and sizes, so your options are limited. Steps, spas, and benches are usually pre-formed. They are manufactured from fiberglass-reinforced plastic. They are delivered and ready for installation when they arrive. Fiberglass is a non-porous fiber with a smooth finish to the touch. It prevents algae growth and is very easy to clean. Fiberglass is popular because of its low maintenance benefits and low cost on pool chemicals.

Fiberglass makes the pool-building process quick and easy. However, fiberglass can be more costly. After 10 to 15 years of exposure to sun and chemicals, the fiberglass deteriorates. Re-coating it is not easy because the new coating does not stick easily to the older one.

Vinyl Liner

Vinyl liner swimming pools are the cheapest of your options. Installation typically takes about 3 weeks. Vinyl pools options are also built and offered to you only in certain shapes and sizes. They also offer a range of liner colors and patterns. It is also non-porous, like fiberglass, which reduces algae growth. However, it does offer a few drawbacks. Sharp objects cannot be around the pool as they could potential cut a hole in the liner. The material also deteriorates in time from exposure to the elements, regular use and chemicals and usually needs replacing every 10 years or so. Some liners come equipped with fungus and UV inhibitors, which can extend the life of a vinyl liner from 10 to about 18 years or so.

Pools that are lined with vinyl are built with metal or plastic frames into the ground. Pre-made panels made of plastic, steel, or aluminum are added to the frame, making a form that is then lined with heavy vinyl to form the pool shell.

What Size Backyard is Needed for a Pool?

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Let’s be honest, the subject is awkward and uncomfortable, but if you own a pool it’s important to know what your ‘getting yourself into. ’Pretty much anyone who has swam in a pool, has peed in it in their lifetime. So, it’s safe to say basically any pool will has a certain amount of pee in it. Even Michael Phelps, the Olympic swimmer, has admitted to it himself. He stated, “chlorine kills it, so it’s not bad.” However, science is telling us otherwise. Not only is it just gross, but it’s harmful to your health.

In fact, a new study found that chlorine does not kill contents of our urine, but does however react with it to create potentially dangerous chemicals. The research, published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology, used a technique called membrane introduction mass spectrometry to measure the presence of dangerous byproducts in pools. Uric acid from human urine mixes with chlorine to create the cyanogen chloride (CNCI) and trichloramine (NCl3). CNCI is a toxic compound that can harm organs like the lungs, heart, and central nervous system. NCl3 has been linked with acute lung injury.

You know that familiar “pool smell”? It kind of stings your nose when you breathe in? Well, it’s actually not chlorine, but chloramines. The stronger the smell the more pee there is in the pool and its reacting to the chlorine to give off that smell.

Researchers recommend that all swimmers avoid urinating in swimming pools to prevent these chemicals from forming. The study found that a chemical in urine and sweat, called uric acid, undergoes a chemical reaction with chlorine to produce two substances– cyanogen chloride and trichloramine. This is where the danger begins.

Trichloramine is known for aggravating upper respiratory conditions like asthma, however it’s known for causing them in professional swimmers, because they spend so much time in the water and around pools. Mostly likely you won’t have Olympic trainers in your pool however, chloramines are also known to trigger asthma attacks and make the condition worse. On the other hand, chloramines are irritating to people in good health, however it does sting the eyes and burn the throat.

Often the reason why people do pee in the pool is due to laziness. They simply don’t want to get out of the pool, dry off, go inside and use the toilet. So we recommend posting a sign in your pool area, maybe 2 and encourage your guests to use the bathroom when they do need to go.

Overall, there really is no need to panic if someone does or avoid a pool because you are now paranoid. Don’t let us spoil your fun, go ahead and enjoy the pool, just use jump out and use the bathroom when needed.

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When I think of pool party foods, the first thing I think of is finger foods. Quick easy to grab and easy on the stomach foods. Refreshing, tasty and easy to make foods. Life is complicated enough, we like to make things easy. So, I searched for some of the best recipes focusing on just those things. These are sure to make your party a hit!

Watermelon, Mozzarella, Basil Skewers – These are so easy to make and SOOO delicious and refreshing at the same time. Cut up some watermelon into squares, the best you can. Also, some fresh mozzarella, balls or cut into squares. Then rinse and tear off a few hands full of basil leaves. Keep these whole, we don’t want to cut them. You will also need some balsamic vinaigrette to top it all off.

  Now you can start to build your skewers. Please a piece of watermelon, mozzarella to follow, then fold a basil leaf and place on the skewer, then repeat over and over and continue onto additional skewer sticks. I like to do about two rotations per stick, but you decide what is best for your party.

Once all have been completed. Lay them down on a pretty plate and then drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over them all. Refrigerate until ready to be placed out when the party begins.

Popcorn Finger Chicken – Simple, healthy pop in your mouth finger food. Depending on how many guests you are having, I like to average about 5-6 per person. Ingredients you will need: chicken breasts, eggs, flour, panko crumbs, salt and pepper. Prepare by cutting your chicken into small bite sizes. Then crack a few eggs into a bowl and whisk the eggs until mixed. Brag another bowl and add some flour in it, and then another bowl for the panko crumbs. I like to add spices to the flour bowl to give the flavor a kick. My favorite mix is salt, pepper, garlic powder, chili powder and mustard powder. A few dashes of each should do the trick. Also, prepare your baking sheet with a nice layer of oil and set to the side. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.

Begin by grabbing one chicken bite, place it in the flour bowl and cover it completely with flour. Then move the chicken bite to the egg bowl and cover completely with the egg. Then you move it to the panko bowl and cover it with panko crumbs. Then place it on the pan. Continue with the rest of the chicken bites and place all evenly on the baking sheet. Place in over for about 15-20 or until internal heat is at 165 degrees. Be careful not to overcook.

Once done, put on a plate and add toothpicks to each chicken piece for easy grab and go.

This last recipe is actual quite genius. Who doesn’t love a 7 layer bean dip? But after a few bites, it starts to get mushy, messy and germs from multiple mouths start to add up. So THIS is the perfect solution given to us by https://www.the-girl-who-ate-everything.com/individual-seven-layer-dips. For a complete recipe check out the link.

Individual Seven-Layer Dips

INGREDIENTS:
• 1 (16 ounce) can refried beans
• 1 (1 ounce) package taco seasoning
• 1 cup guacamole or make homemade guacamole
• 1 (8 ounce) container sour cream
• 1 cup chunky salsa or pico de gallo; or make homemade pico de Gallo
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• 2 Roma tomatoes , diced
• 1/2 bunch of green onions , sliced
• 1 (2.25 ounce) can of sliced olives, drained
• 8 (9 ounce) plastic tumblers
• Tortilla chips

You won’t have the leave your pool float for this dip. You can eat it all in the pool. Enjoy!

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It’s common for blondes to have issues when they spend a lot of time in the swimming pool with their hair turning a slight shade of green, especially towards the ends. Don’t get discouraged, it’s common and you are not alone.

Often the misconception to the hair turning green is the chlorine. It’s not 100 just the chlorine though. It’s also copper. Copper is a metal that can often be found in your swimming pool water. The copper and chlorine bond together in the water to form a film that sticks to the proteins in your stands of hair, causing it to turn green. So the biggest culprit is the copper. Even tap water with a high copper content can turn your hair green as well.

Good news! It’s NOT permanent! It can be fixed and even prevented with a few simple steps.

To prevent the onset of green hair, we provide a few options below.

Stop using copper based algaecides in your pool water. Keep your chlorine level and maintained and you won’t need to use algaecides. Because some of the contain copper, although its great at killing algae it can also stain your pool and also green blonde hair.

Wet your hair before going into the pool, copper and chlorine won’t hang onto your hair as tightly when you enter with wet hair.

Apply a leave-in conditioner on your hair before you go in the pool. Then the pool water won’t stick to your hair as easily.

Wash your hair with shampoo immediately after getting out of the pool and you are done for the day.

Or if your hair is already green, you can try some at home remedies below to see what works best for you.

Rinse with Tomato Juice, ketchup or lemon juice. Soak your hair as best you can with tomato juice, then let it set for 5-10 minutes. Or try ketchup. After coating your hair with it, you will need to wrap your hair in tinfoil or wrap a swim cap and let it sit on your head for about 30 minutes. If you decide to give the lemon juice a try, put the lemon juice in your hair and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes. Whichever you choose, wash and condition your hair after you have fully rinsed.

Try aspirin, baking soda or lemon Kool-Aid as a rinse. Use ¼-1/2 cup of baking soda with water and mix to make a paste consistency. Massage paste into your hair and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes. If you decide to give aspirin a try, crush about 6-8 tablets in a bowl then add warm water to it for it to dissolve. Put the rinse in your hair and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes. If you use the lemon Kool-Aid mis the package with water and apply to the green areas of the hair. Let it sit for 3-5 minutes. Again, whichever you choose, wash and condition your hair after you have fully rinsed.

If you prefer to not do at home remedies, there is a professional shampoo that can help as well. It removes the chlorine and copper from your hair to help remove the green tint.

With these easy tips and tricks, you’ll have your golden locks back in no time. Now go enjoy that pool!

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Read more on Essential Equipment for your Swimming Pool

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Are you dreaming of finally getting a swimming pool but worried about it actually being possible because of your small or oddly shaped backyard? No sweat! Freeform shaped swimming pools are the best design to work with any oddly shaped or small backyard.

Freeform swimming pools are a wonderful addition to your backyard. They provide a natural, organic look with an amoeba shape/style. Freeform pools often have a look as if they have always belonged there and really blend into nature. They bring curves, flowing lines and irregular shapes and often have features like waterfalls, rock bridges, and plant landscapes to resemble a pond or lake.

Many homeowners dream of a pool oasis in their backyard and worry it just can’t happen with their small and oddly shaped backyards. However, Challenger Pools can create a custom freeform pool for any shape or terrain yard. Lines, curves, and defining edges is what makes the design modern.

Advantages

The advantages of having a freeform pool are unlimited as it can add so much to your home and life.

1.     Beautifying your backyard – creating a space to enjoy and have fun outside is a wonderful addition to any home, especially if you have children. Unlimited fun, enjoyment and memories can be made in and around your pool area getting the kids away from the electronics and create a great family bonding time.

2.     Added value to your home – any pool immediately adds value to your home and eventually puts more money in your pocket.

3.     Exercise – Swimming provides some of the best exercise you can provide your body and with an oddly shaped backyard, Challenger Pools has professionals who access the landscape and terrain and recommend the best design for you.

4.     Added beauty and fun – Freeform pools often have additional features to make your backyard more of an oasis than just a swimming pool. Tanning ledges, rock bridges, islands, beach entries, in-pool tables and chairs add so much more enjoyment to your swimming pool.

Don’t let your small or oddly shaped backyard stop you from having the swimming pool of your dreams.  Call Challenger Pools and let the staff walk you step-by-step in making dreams come true.

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When it comes to building on your property, different cities and counties have various regulations and rules. No matter what size pool you choose, in ground or above, building permits are required for all shapes and sizes of pools. However, the larger the pool, the more guidelines will apply. These guidelines and permits exist to protect you and your home, so it’s important that they are followed and adhered to.

However, portable or above ground pools that are less than 42 inches deep, and do not need to be permitted. Putting in an above ground pool with a depth of 42 inches or greater, requires a permit, which the homeowner or pool company can obtain.

For in-ground concrete pools, a state licensed Pool Contractor must be obtained. The contractor will pull the building permit and obtain the engineering expertise, as well as provide necessary paperwork to ensure Florida Building and Swimming Pool Codes are met.

It’s vital to submit a residential application, a site plan, and a pool plan detail to your local city/county before the construction project begins. For example, if your property is in a flood zone, an engineer will need to create and sign off on a new drainage plan to protect your property and the others around you.

See below some common paperwork requirements when trying to obtain a permit:

• Proof of property ownership. This can be a recorded deed, closing statement, or property tax information.
  • Two sets pool plans. Plans must include all safety feature options, and piping systems.
  • Building Permit Application. The application must be fully completed, signed, and notarized.
  • Two copies of a certified survey or site plan.
  • Private Swimming Pool Safety Requirements form.

Also be aware that if the swimming pool will be enclosed, you must provide the setbacks from the proposed enclosure to the water’s edge of the pool. The enclosure must meet the building setbacks for the zoning district it is located in.

Accompanying Documents When Pulling a Permit

If the size of the swimming pool warrants the pulling of a permit additional documents to further explain the project and how it will meet the various state, city and trade codes, will be required.

1. If the property owner pulls the permit, an Owner/Building Disclosure must also be completed, which explains and acknowledges the responsibilities of the property owner acting as the contractor. While online, forms and assistance is also available at the Development Services Department, including complimentary notarization for the Owner/Builder Disclosure form.
2. Along with a permit, a site plan of the property showing the location of all existing structures (sheds, house, detached garage, etc.) must be provided, with the size and location of the proposed improvement, as well as the perimeter property lines.
3. For in ground pools, construction plans need to be designed, signed and sealed by an architect or engineer registered in Florida, certifying compliance with the Florida Building and Swimming Pool Codes.
4. As building permit fees are calculated on the cost of the job, a copy of the sales contract or work contract needs to be submitted with the permit package. Typically, permit fees range from $50.00 to $80.00 and help cover the cost of inspections. While permits and inspections might be thought as unnecessary, the peace of mind knowing your new pool complies with code and will provide years of safe enjoyment is worth it!

Challenger Pools is the perfect pool building company when it comes to creating your very own backyard oasis. Whether you’re looking to put in a pool, spa, outdoor living area, or all the above, Challenger Pools is there for you.

 

 

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