If you have a swimming pool, spa, or hot tub in California, you are required by law to have specific safety barriers in place. These regulations exist to prevent accidental drownings, especially involving children. Here is what you need to know.
The Swimming Pool Safety Act
California’s Swimming Pool Safety Act requires pool owners to have at least one approved safety feature from the following options:
- An enclosure fence that meets specific requirements
- An approved safety pool cover (ASTM certified)
- Exit alarms on doors with direct pool access
- Self-closing, self-latching devices on all entry points
For new pool construction, most jurisdictions in Sacramento require an enclosure fence before the pool is filled.
Pool Fence Specifications
If you choose a fence as your safety barrier, it must meet these requirements:
- Height: At least 60 inches (5 feet) tall
- Gaps: No opening large enough for a 4-inch sphere to pass through
- Climbability: The fence must not have horizontal rails or features that a child could use to climb
- Gates: Must be self-closing and self-latching. The latch must be at least 54 inches from the ground or on the pool side of the gate
- Gate swing: Gates must open away from the pool
What Materials Work for Pool Fencing?
The most common pool fence materials are:
- Iron or aluminum: Meets the vertical-bar requirement, looks elegant, and does not obstruct views
- Vinyl: Available in styles that meet pool code requirements
- Mesh pool fencing: Removable safety fencing that is popular for temporary installations
- Wood: Can be used if designed without climbable horizontal rails
Inspections
New pool fencing must pass a building inspection before the pool project receives its final sign-off. The inspector will verify height, gap spacing, gate hardware, and overall compliance.
Get a Code-Compliant Pool Fence
VMK Builders & Co. installs pool fencing that meets all California requirements. Call us at (916) 754-6962 for a free estimate and we will make sure your pool area is safe and compliant.
