In July 2024, the landscape of swimming pool construction in Florida has reflected a dynamic interplay of regulatory changes, economic trends, and environmental considerations. As the state has experienced a summer of high temperatures, demand for residential swimming pools remains evident, but the permitting process has encountered both opportunities and challenges.
Permit Statistics
Based on the latest permit data pulled from the HBW database, the number of residential swimming pool permits issued was 1,780 in July 2024, reflecting an 11 percent month-over-month decrease in new swimming pool construction. Out of the five regions included in the reports (Southwest, Tampa, Southeast, Jacksonville, Orlando), the highest concentration of new pool construction could be found in the southwestern region (583 permits), while the highest average value of construction took place in Jacksonville (average value: $96,734).
Regional Variations
The level of permit issuance has not been uniform across Florida. The Sunshine State’s diverse geography has led to varying impacts in each of the regions reviewed:
- Southeast Florida: The southeast experienced just over a 10 percent month-over-month increase in permits, resulting in 406 new swimming pool construction permits on record for the month. High demand in this region is driven by a growing population and a robust real estate market. According to the Miami Association of Realtors (Residential Construction Market Report), the residential construction market remains active, contributing to the higher permit numbers.
- Central Florida: Areas like Orlando also experienced growth, having approximately 350 new permits on record for July, reflecting a 20 percent month-over-month increase. The Central Florida region continues to see new developments and a rising interest in home amenities.
- North Florida: The Jacksonville area exhibited a 10 percent month-over-month increase in new pool construction, resulting in nearly 200 new permits on record. The lower amount of pool construction overall in this region can be linked to a cooler housing market and somewhat less aggressive new home construction.
- Southwest Florida: As previously noted, the southwest carried the highest volume of new pool construction activity in comparison to other Florida regions reviewed, having 583 new permits with a total construction value in excess of $46 million on record last month.
- Tampa: Last month, the Tampa area had nearly 245 new swimming pool construction permits on record, reflecting approximately a 37 percent month-over-month decrease in new pool construction.
Regulatory and Environmental Factors
The regulatory landscape has played an important role in shaping the permit issuance trends. Recent updates to Florida’s building codes, particularly those related to water conservation and hurricane preparedness, have influenced the process. The Florida Building Code has introduced new requirements for energy-efficient pool equipment and sustainable water management practices.
Local governments have also imposed additional regulations to address environmental concerns. For instance, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) has reinforced guidelines to manage stormwater runoff and preserve local ecosystems. Compliance with these regulations can impact and sometimes delay permit approvals, although they are essential for maintaining environmental balance.
Economic Influences
The construction industry, including swimming pool projects, is influenced by broader economic conditions. In July 2024, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reported that while inflationary pressures and fluctuating interest rates have impacted construction costs, the demand for home improvements and luxury amenities, including pools, remains strong.
The Economic Development Council of Florida has noted that high consumer confidence in the housing market and a steady influx of new residents have bolstered demand for new pool installations.
To gain more information on the builders, homeowners and permits for the construction activity above, check out HBW for your copy of the latest construction data reports. To gain access to the HBW database and receive custom and detailed reports on the latest residential and commercial building activity in Florida, Georgia, Texas, Alabama, and Oklahoma, please contact HBW for details.