How Wichita Falls Handles Swimming Pools & Spas: A Practical Guide

Wichita Falls maintains 38 local ordinances across all categories, and 3 of those deal specifically with swimming pools & spas. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Wichita Falls falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Above-Ground Pools

Wichita Falls regulates above-ground pools with the same safety requirements as in-ground pools. Pools exceeding 24 inches in depth require barriers and may need building permits.

Key details: Depth Threshold: 24 inches triggers barrier requirements. Barriers: Same as in-ground requirements. Ladder: Must be removable or lockable. Small Pools: Under 24 inches may be exempt.

Non-compliant above-ground pools may receive code enforcement notices. Pools without proper barriers must be corrected.

Safety Rules

Wichita Falls requires building permits for swimming pool construction and compliance with safety standards including barriers, drain covers, and electrical grounding. Pools must meet the International Residential Code.

Key details: Permit: Required for construction. Code: International Residential Code. Drain Covers: Must be compliant. Inspections: Required during construction.

Building pools without permits may result in fines, stop-work orders, and mandatory inspections. Safety deficiencies must be corrected promptly.

Fencing Requirements

Wichita Falls requires all residential swimming pools to be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates. Pool barriers must comply with the International Residential Code adopted by the city.

Key details: Barrier Height: 48 inches minimum. Gate Latch: Self-closing, self-latching at 54 inches. Openings: No gaps allowing 4-inch sphere. Code: International Residential Code.

Non-compliant pool barriers may result in code enforcement notices and fines. Pools without proper barriers must be corrected promptly.

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

The Bottom Line

Wichita Falls'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 Wichita Falls is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Wichita Falls 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.