Garfield's Swimming Pools & Spas: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles swimming pools & spas a little differently. In Garfield, New Jersey, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Fencing Requirements

Garfield requires swimming pools to be at least six feet from any side or rear lot line, and pool enclosure fences must comply with the city's accessory structure and fence regulations under Zoning Chapter 341.

Key details: Side/rear setback: 6 feet minimum. Front fence max: 5 feet, partly open. Rear fence max: 6 feet, semi-open. Code chapter: Chapter 341, Article IX.

Pools placed closer than six feet to a rear or side lot line, fences exceeding the height or openness limits in residential districts, and unenclosed pools that fail to meet the city's accessory structure rules.

Above-Ground Pools

Garfield treats above-ground pools the same as in-ground pools for placement: any permanently attached pool must sit at least six feet from rear and side lot lines under the city's accessory structure provisions.

Key details: Applies to: Above and in-ground pools. Setback: 6 feet from side/rear. Classification: Accessory structure. Code chapter: Chapter 341, Article IX.

Installing a permanent above-ground pool within six feet of a side or rear property line, treating an above-ground pool as exempt from accessory structure rules, or installing without required construction permits.

The Bottom Line

Garfield's swimming pools & spas rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Garfield is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Garfield can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.