In order to answer this question accurately, you need to know where the pool is located.
In some states, there are no mandates or pool fencing ordinances that exist and in others they can be very strictly enforced. There are some cities and communities that have pool fencing standards so it is important to check with your local jurisdiction for specifics.
Here is more on understanding pool laws and how far a pool should be from the fence.
Best Pool Cover (EDITOR’S CHOICE)
How Close Can Pool Be To The Fence?
Larger pools in most states must meet certain guidelines when it comes to being on your property line.
According to section 7 of article 468 of the New York State Codes, Standards and Rules [1] , pools on properties with certain dimensions must be pool code compliant.
The pool must be wholly contained by the property line and the pool enclosure (fence) must meet pool code.
The pool fence can not allow “pass through” holes larger than 4 inches in diameter, unsecured gates where children could pass, crating that is lower than 48 inches or has cut-out sections greater than 4 inches.
1. Pools Over 100 Linear Feet
For pools on properties with over 100 linear feet of pool fence, none of these conditions are permissible:
1. There exists any opening 2 inches in diameter or larger within 30 inches from the top of a horizontal barrier and less than 60 inches above grade at any point along such barrier [Section 703.7]
2. Any portion of a pool fence that has openings forming a top or bottom horizontal member greater than 48 inches in height, where the pool is less than 4 feet deep [Section 703.3]
3. Any pool fence with vertical or horizontal members spaced less than 45 apart so as to allow passage of a 4 inch diameter sphere. Or any pool fence which allows pool objects such as, but not limited to toys and floats, be attached more than 3 inches from the top of a pool barrier.
This does not apply to pool enclosures for hot tubs and spas which have an opening within 21 inches from the top of a pool fence gate or door regardless of where it is located on the pool fence [Section 703.5]
4. Any pool fence that has a horizontal grab bar less than 12 inches in length and/or positioned where any part of such bar can be mounted or moved above 48 inches above grade [Section 703.6]
5. Any portion of a pool fence located within 10 feet from the pool structure is deemed to be in compliance if it meets the pool code specs for pool fences located outside this area. [Section 703.8]
Again, these are pool laws in most states which encompass some areas but not others so make sure you check with your local jurisdiction first before doing anything drastic on your pool fencing needs!
2. Pool Regulations In States Like Indiana
If you live in Indiana, pool regulations are defined under Title 32 – LICENSING AND REGULATION- CHAPTER 3.4 – RULES FOR LICENSED PROFESSIONALS [2].
Under pool enclosure rules in Indiana, they must comply with pool code standards listed in Title 35 of the official Indiana Rules which are Chapter 4 Physical Facilities – Division 1 – Building Site Development.
Indiana pool fences can not allow “pass-through” holes larger than 4 inches in diameter, unsecured gates where children could pass or have cut-out sections greater than 4 inches regarding pool enclosures for swimming pools, hot tubs, and spas.
Pool fencing in Indiana can not be made of wire mesh or other materials such as chain link, stockade fence, picket fence, ornamental pool barrier with openings that allow passage of a spherical object 4 inches in diameter or larger; however, pool fences can have decorative cutouts and spacing no greater than one (1) inch.
Pool enclosures for pool structures must:
- Be located at least 36 inches from the edge of the pool water surface.
– Be located between the pool structure and the grade level of the pool decking unless an unbroken concrete pool deck surrounds all sides of the pool structure. If there is any exposed soil around pool structures, then pool barriers shall follow the following requirements:
a. Minimum horizontal distance from pool structure to the grade level of pool decking = 36 inches.
b. Minimum horizontal distance from pool structure for drainage, landscaping, and utility equipment = 18 inches.
c. Minimum vertical distance from pool structure to grade level of pool decking = 4 feet
d. The pool enclosure shall be designed or constructed so that any part of the pool barrier is at least 90 inches above the adjacent grade level within 10 feet from the pool end, measured horizontally.
Final Thoughts
With these steps, your pool pump should turn on.
Fencing laws vary from state to state and pool fencing procedures should be checked with local pool building authorities before any pool construction begins.
These pool fence laws are intended for pool owners in New York State and should not be considered legal advice or a complete list of all the pool regulations in the U.S., but rather just a guideline when it comes to pool fencing and pool enclosures.
Read More About Pools:
- Being In A Pool During Tsunami
- Handling An Oversized Pool Pump
- Using A Pool Slide For Pool
- Managing Overflowing Water For Above Ground Pool
- Why Does Pool Pump Not Turn On?
