How Fargo Handles Swimming Pools & Spas: A Practical Guide

Fargo maintains 102 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with swimming pools & spas. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Fargo falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Safety Rules

Fargo Ordinance No. 5425 requires every private swimming pool holding water more than 24 inches deep to be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches tall and located at least 4 feet from the outside of the pool. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching, with the latch release on the pool side if mounted below 54 inches.

Key details: Ordinance: Fargo Ord. No. 5425. Depth Trigger: Over 24 inches. Min Barrier Height: 48 inches. Min Pool Offset: 4 feet from pool edge. Gates: Self-closing & self-latching.

Failing to enclose a pool meeting the 24-inch depth threshold, or removing/altering an existing enclosure to reduce its effectiveness, violates Ordinance No. 5425 and can trigger an order to install or restore a compliant barrier. Confirm specific civil-fine amounts and abatement timelines with Fargo Inspections at 701-241-1561.

Compared to other cities, Fargo takes a harder line on safety rules. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Fencing Requirements

Fargo Ord. No. 5425 (April 2024) requires barriers around any temporary or permanent pool or hot tub holding water 2 feet (24 inches) deep or more. Barrier must be at least 48 inches tall and located at least 4 feet from the outside of the pool, with self-closing/self-latching gates.

Key details: Threshold: Water 24 in (2 ft) or deeper. Barrier Height: Minimum 48 inches. Setback: 4 ft from pool edge. Gates: Self-closing, self-latching. Authority: Ord. 5425 (Apr 2024).

Inspections Division enforcement; permit required for permanent pools. Non-compliance can require draining or fencing before reuse.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Fargo actively enforces its fencing requirements requirements.

The Bottom Line

Fargo is tougher than many cities when it comes to swimming pools & spas. Out of the 2 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Fargo, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

All of the above reflects Fargo's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.