Swimming Pools & Spas in Hackensack, NJ: What Residents Actually Need to Know

Hackensack maintains 59 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 Hackensack falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Fencing Requirements

Hackensack regulates pool barriers through Chapter 100 (Housing and Property Maintenance), Article III of the City Code, plus the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code (N.J.A.C. 5:23-3.14) and the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) adopted statewide. Private pools deeper than 24 inches must be enclosed by a fence or barrier at least 48 inches high.

Key details: Local Authority: Hackensack Code Ch. 100, Art. III. State Code: N.J.A.C. 5:23-3.14 (UCC) + ISPSC. Barrier Trigger Depth: More than 24 inches of water. Minimum Barrier Height: 48 inches. Gate Hardware: Self-closing and self-latching.

Failure to maintain a compliant pool barrier is a violation of the Hackensack property maintenance code and the Uniform Construction Code. Penalties may include notices of violation, orders to abate, and municipal court fines. Construction without a UCC permit can trigger stop-work orders and additional penalties under N.J.A.C. 5:23.

This is one of the stricter rules in Hackensack's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Safety Rules

Swimming pool safety in Hackensack is governed by the New Jersey Swimming Pool Subcode (N.J.A.C. 5:23-3.10A, adopting the 2018 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code with NJ amendments) and locally enforced under Hackensack City Code Chapter 100 (Housing and Property Maintenance, adopted July 8, 2008, amended through 2016), Article III. Private pools, hot tubs, and spas containing more than 24 inches of water must be completely enclosed by a self-closing, self-latching barrier at least 48 inches high above finished grade.

Key details: State Code: N.J.A.C. 5:23-3.10A (2018 ISPSC w/ NJ amendments). Local Code: Hackensack Ch. 100, Art. III (Property Maintenance, adopted 7/8/2008). Barrier Trigger: Pools/spas/hot tubs with more than 24 inches of water. Minimum Barrier Height: 48 inches above finished grade. Maximum Opening: 4 inches (1.75 in. for solid masonry barriers).

Construction Code violations are prosecuted under N.J.A.C. 5:23-2.31, with penalties up to $2,000 per violation per week and the power to order corrective work or revoke a Certificate of Occupancy. Property Maintenance Code violations under Chapter 100 are enforced by the Hackensack Property Maintenance Officer through Notice of Violation and municipal court action. Operating a pool without a compliant barrier may also expose the owner to civil liability for any injury or drowning, and insurers commonly deny coverage for non-compliant pools.

This is one of the stricter rules in Hackensack's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

The Bottom Line

Hackensack 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 Hackensack, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

This guide is based on Hackensack's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.