Florida Regulations on Sauna

• Saunas are known as spas under Florida Statues and the Florida Building Code.sauna(n/b) image by S??bastien Goetschmann from Fotolia.com
  
  Saunas are rarely referred to in the current Florida statutes. Instead, they are usually known as "spas" and follow many of the same regulations that cover pools and hot tubs. Florida statutes require owners to take safety precautions to protect others from danger from non-recommended use. The Florida Building Codes specify necessary features that must be included on all spas or saunas installed in the state.
  
  

Definition of Contractor

• All statutes referring to "commercial pool/spa contractors" pertain to individuals who construct, repair or service any type of hot tub, spa or sauna in the state of Florida, according to Title XXXII, Chapter 489 of the Florida Code. Saunas fall under the definition of spas, according to the Florida Statutes and the Florida Building Codes.
  
  

Additional Safety Requirements

• Due to safety issues related to the drowning of infants and the elderly, Chapter 515 of Title XXXIII states that all new pools, saunas, spas and hot tubs must have an approved safety feature that can save a victim's life or delay death until help can arrive. Examples of applicable safety devices include spa covers and exit alarms that make audible, continuous noises when any door to the spa area is opened and left ajar. The Florida Building Code further reiterates that a cover is required for all spas and saunas installed in the state.
  
  

Spa Heaters

• Defined by Chapter 20 Section M2006 of the Florida Building Code, all spa heaters need to be tested in accordance with UL 1261 and installed according to the manufacturer's instructions. In addition, these heating devices must have temperature-relief valves and a bypass system. Further, the clearance to the draft hood, combustion air or accessibility of servicing may not be blocked for any reason.
  
  

On-Off Switch

• According to 13-612.Ab.2.3.1 of the Florida Building Code, all spas and saunas are required to have an easily accessible, mounted on-and-off switch that allows for the device to be turned on and off without having to relight the pilot light or adjust the thermostat.