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

Every city handles swimming pools & spas a little differently. In Garland, Texas, 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 & Safety Requirements

Pool barriers in Garland must be at least 48 inches tall, fully enclose the pool, and meet IRC Appendix V plus Texas state pool yard enclosure standards.

Key details: Minimum 48-inch Barrier: Minimum 48-inch barrier height from outside grade. Vertical Openings Limited: Vertical openings limited to 4 inches maximum. Gates Must Open: Gates must open outward, self-close, and self-latch. Latch Release At: Latch release at least 54 inches above ground. Chain Link Mesh: Chain link mesh limited to 1.25-inch openings.

Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact [Garland code enforcement](https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IRC2021P2/appendix-v-swimming-pools-spas-and-hot-tubs) directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.

Pool Permits

Above-ground pools deeper than 24 inches in Garland require permits, barriers or removable ladders, and must meet setback rules from property lines and structures.

Key details: Setbacks: Pools over 24 inches deep require a permit. Setbacks: Pool walls 48+ inches can serve as the barrier. Ladder Must: Ladder is removable and locked when unattended. Setbacks: 5-foot setback from side and rear property lines. Prohibitions: Cannot be placed over easements.

Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact [Garland code enforcement](https://www.garlandtx.gov/178/Building-Inspection) directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.

Garland is more permissive than most cities when it comes to pool permits. That said, there are still limits.

The Bottom Line

Garland'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 Garland is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Garland's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.