Last Updated on August 30, 2023

Having a swimming pool right in your backyard can be one of the most convenient and pleasant things, especially during the summer, when everyone just needs to cool down a little. If you already have a pool, then you probably know how enjoyable hot seasons can be.

Whether you already have one, or you are just planning to have it built, one thing you should consider getting is pool fences. These installations can be a lifesaver, literally. Plus, some states and municipalities have regulations regarding pool fencing.

The question is: is it illegal to not have a fence around your pool or is it fine to refrain from having them installed? The answer may not be so straightforward. Here’s what you need to know.

Do You Need a Pool Fence for Legal Compliance?

The thing about pool fencing policies across the United States is that it does not have a nationwide law regarding these pool fence installations.

However, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission released the Safety Barrier Guidelines for Residential Pools intending to prevent fatal accidents involving children.

Keep in mind that these are recommendations and not compliance legislation. According to this document, the suggested specifications for a fence are at least four feet in height on all sides.

Fences should also not have anything that could serve as handholds and footholds, which children could use as leverage to go over the barrier.

The main principle about fences is that no child should not be able to get into the pool area under, over, and through the barrier. This means that the kids should not be able to enter the pool without adult supervision.

Despite not having a nationwide policy on pool fences, you should remember that every state and municipality may have its own laws regarding these safety installations. You should watch out for relevant laws that apply to you and your home.

In California, one of the requirements for any residential pool or spa is an enclosure such as a fence that opens outward complete with a self-closing and -latching mechanism.

The barrier should also be at least 60 inches in height with a maximum of two inches of vertical clearance from the ground. Any gap or void should also be a maximum of four inches in diameter only without features that can serve as a handhold or foothold.

In most parts of Los Angeles, the requirements include having a minimum height of five feet, a self-closing and -latching gate, small gaps and openings, and without leverages for climbing over. The specifications are similar to Nevada pool fencing policies.

As for other states, the best route is to find out pool barrier regulations by reaching out to local authorities concerned with residential constructions. A reliable contractor can also give you solid information and advice about such requirements.

Advantages of Having Pool Fences

The thing about having different policies on pool fences across the United States is that some may not be required to install them. Whether you are in states that call for swimming pool barriers or not, installing fences is a wise choice.

• Safety and Protection

The primary purpose of pool barriers is for the safety and protection of the people and animals around them. When considering whether or not to install fences, you should think of the dangers. Young children are attracted to water and they only need seconds to drown. Even if you don’t have young children around, your neighbors or friends might do and it can be a liability.

The pool area can also be slippery, children, pets, and individuals with disabilities also could easily slip and fall, which can result in minor hurts, or worse, major injuries even drowning.

Having a fence around your pool can minimize the possibility of such incidents, and prevents vulnerable individuals and animals from accessing the area without proper supervision.

• Reduce Fatal Accidents

The thing about safety and protection when it comes to swimming pools is that it is vital because of the hazards posed by swimming pools to children, especially when left unsupervised.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is one of the most common causes of death in children one to four years of age. In fact, the yearly average of accidental drowning deaths is 3960, or 11 fatalities per day.

It is also the second highest cause of injuries resulting in deaths in children one to fourteen years of age.

Having barriers around your pool can prevent children, individuals with disabilities, and pets out without your supervision, so you can keep them safe while enjoying the pool.

• Aesthetic Potentials

Another perk offered by pool fencing systems is it lets you give your pool area a more pleasing quality. You can have it made in the color, material, and style you prefer, while still letting you reap the safety and protective benefits of fences.

What Kind of Pool Fence Should You Consider?

Different pool fence options can help make your swimming area safer and more visually pleasing. The key is picking the best one for you and your family’s needs.

If you are looking for something easy to install and provides ultimate protection, and convenience, you should take a look at mesh fences. These come in different varieties that offer their own advantages.

For example, you can pick a choice that is made not only to keep out children but also pets. You could also go for standard meshes, which can be effective in preventing unsupervised entry.

Regardless of what you choose, you can rest assured that mesh fences can be installed with the right specifications, with self-latching and self-closing mechanisms.

The best part is if you choose to work with the right contractor, your mesh barriers could be removable and foldable, so you can still use them if you happen to move houses.

The Bottom Line

If you are contemplating whether or not to install a fence around your swimming pool for legal compliance, the best way to go is to simply get an affordable, yet functional one. Mesh fences by Guardian Pool Fence Systems can offer security, safety, and convenience to any residential pool within its service areas.

Do you need a fence around your pool?