If you own a pool in Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, North Port, Rotonda, or anywhere in Charlotte County, keeping your property safe isn’t just about clean water — it’s also about clear safety signage.

Florida law is serious about pool safety. Whether your pool is residential, part of a rental property, or located in a commercial setting like an apartment complex or hotel, specific pool safety signs are required by the Florida Building Code (FBC) and Florida Administrative Code (FAC).

Failing to comply can lead to fines, liability risks, and insurance complications, not to mention increased danger for your family or guests.

Why Pool Safety Signs Matter

Close up of a No Lifeguard on Duty sign near a sunny pool

Pools are fun — but also risky. According to the Florida Department of Health, Florida consistently ranks among the top states for pool-related injuries and drownings.

Proper signage helps:

  • Warn swimmers of potential hazards
  • Reinforce pool rules
  • Prevent unauthorized access
  • Reduce liability for property owners

Whether you’re maintaining a backyard pool in Rotonda West or managing a rental in Port Charlotte, posting the right safety signs is one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep everyone safe.

Florida Pool Safety Sign Requirements

1. “No Diving” Signs

Required anywhere the pool depth is less than 5 feet.
These must be clearly visible and placed at multiple points around the pool perimeter.

Specifications:

  • Bold, easy-to-read letters (minimum 4 inches tall)
  • Red text on a white background
  • Accompanied by a pictogram of a diver with a slash through it

Example Placement: Near shallow ends, pool steps, and near slides.

2. “No Lifeguard on Duty” Signs

If your pool doesn’t have a certified lifeguard — even for private HOA or apartment pools — this sign is legally required.

It must say:

“NO LIFEGUARD ON DUTY – SWIM AT YOUR OWN RISK.”

Tip: This is especially important for Airbnb or short-term rentals in Punta Gorda and North Port, where guests may assume safety supervision exists.

3. “Pool Rules” Sign

Every commercial or multi-family pool in Florida must display a full list of pool rules. Even private pool owners are strongly advised to post them for safety and legal protection.

Commonly Required Rules Include:

  1. No running or rough play.
  2. No glass containers in the pool area.
  3. Shower before entering.
  4. Children must be supervised.
  5. No animals in the pool.
  6. Proper swim attire required.

You can find customizable pool rule templates through professional providers like Florida Detail.

4. “Emergency Phone” and “911 Location” Signs

Every commercial pool in Florida must have a clearly marked phone or phone location with instructions for emergency use.

The sign must include:

  • The exact address of the pool facility.
  • The words “In case of emergency, dial 911” in bold font.
  • Easily visible placement from the pool deck.

This rule helps emergency responders locate your pool quickly — especially crucial in sprawling areas of Charlotte County or gated communities in Rotonda.

5. Depth Markers and “Shallow/Deep End” Indicators

Depth markers aren’t just for looks — they’re required by Florida code.

Requirements:

  • Clearly visible at intervals of no more than 25 feet.
  • Must be displayed both on the pool deck and on the pool wall.
  • Indicate transitions between shallow and deep ends.

Faded or missing markers can lead to code violations, especially after Florida’s humid summers fade paint or tiles.

Additional Signage Recommendations

While not always required by law, these are smart additions for homeowners and businesses:

  • “Children Must Be Supervised” — reinforces responsibility.
  • “No Food or Drinks in Pool” — prevents contamination.
  • “Caution: Wet Surfaces” — reduces slip-related accidents.
  • “Pool Closed After Dark” — useful for community or HOA pools.

Many local pool professionals, including Florida Detail, can recommend signage layouts that match both Florida regulations and your property’s aesthetics.

Where to Place Pool Safety Signs

Proper placement is just as critical as the wording.

General Guidelines:

  • Signs must be visible from all entry points.
  • Avoid hiding them behind furniture or landscaping.
  • Use UV-resistant materials to withstand Florida’s sun exposure.
  • Mount at eye level (4–6 feet above ground).

For example, a Punta Gorda homeowner may place rule signs near the screen enclosure entrance, while a Port Charlotte apartment complex may need multiple signs around a larger pool deck.

Real Example from Charlotte County

A North Port property manager was recently fined for lacking “No Lifeguard on Duty” signage at a community pool. Even though no incident occurred, the missing sign violated Florida Administrative Code 64E-9, resulting in a compliance citation.

After working with PoolServiceInPortCharlotte.com to install compliant signage, they passed reinspection easily — and avoided further penalties.

Maintaining Compliance Year-Round

Florida’s humidity, rainstorms, and sunlight can quickly fade signs. Make it part of your annual maintenance checklist to inspect all signs for:

  • Fading or discoloration
  • Loose mounts or cracked materials
  • Updated emergency phone info or address

Schedule regular maintenance with trusted local providers like Florida Detail or NorthPortPoolServices.com for professional inspection and replacement.

Common Questions About Pool Safety Signs in Florida

Do private home pools need safety signs?

Legally, most residential pools don’t require them unless they’re rented or open to guests — but strongly recommended to prevent legal risk and accidents.

Can I design custom pool signs?

Yes, as long as they meet size, visibility, and content requirements defined by Florida code.

Do I need signs for spas or hot tubs?

Yes — “No Lifeguard on Duty” and “Maximum Use Time” signs are required for public or commercial spas.

Final Thoughts: Protect Lives and Avoid Fines

Pool safety signs aren’t just legal obligations — they’re life-saving tools.
In sunny Charlotte County, where pools are a year-round feature, a few well-placed signs can protect your family, guests, and your wallet from unnecessary risk.

For guidance, templates, and installation services, visit https://FloridaDetail.com or contact their team for expert pool cleaning in Charlotte County.

For marketing or compliance content help, explore UnlimitedManiac.com — a trusted resource for Florida service businesses.

✅ Key Takeaways

  • Florida law requires “No Diving,” “Pool Rules,” and “No Lifeguard” signs.
  • Keep all signs visible, weatherproof, and code-compliant.
  • Review placement yearly for wear and visibility.
  • Partner with Florida Detail for compliance checks and maintenance.

📞 Need Help with Pool Safety Compliance?

Don’t risk fines or safety hazards. Visit Florida Detail’s Contact Page to schedule a pool compliance review today.
They proudly serve Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, North Port, Rotonda, and nearby areas across Charlotte County.