Fencing Requirements: Annapolis vs Pasadena
How do fencing requirements rules compare between Annapolis, MD and Pasadena, MD?
Pasadena has fewer restrictions than Annapolis.
Annapolis, MD
Anne Arundel County
Annapolis follows Maryland's pool barrier law requiring fences at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates. Building permits required. Chesapeake Bay waterfront pools must address stormwater compliance.
View full Annapolis rules →Pasadena, MD
Anne Arundel County
Anne Arundel County requires a building permit for any residential swimming pool and a compliant pool barrier under the Anne Arundel County Building Code, which adopts the International Residential Code (IRC) Appendix G. The barrier must be at least 4 feet (48 inches) tall, with no more than a 2-inch gap at the bottom, picket gaps no more than 4 inches wide, and self-closing/self-latching gates that open outward away from the pool.
View full Pasadena rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Annapolis | Pasadena |
|---|---|---|
| Fence Height | 48 inches minimum | - |
| Gates | Self-closing, self-latching | - |
| Permit | Required before construction | - |
| State Law | MD Environment §14-201 | - |
| Governing Code | - | AA County Building Code (IRC Appendix G adopted) |
| Minimum Barrier Height | - | 48 inches (4 feet) |
| Maximum Ground Gap | - | 2 inches |
| Maximum Picket Gap | - | 4 inches |
| Gate Requirement | - | Outward-opening, self-closing, self-latching |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Annapolis FAQ
What fence height is required for a pool in Annapolis?
At least 48 inches (4 feet) high, fully enclosing the pool area with self-closing, self-latching gates.
Do I need a permit to install a pool in Annapolis?
Yes. A building permit is required and the pool must pass inspection before filling with water.
Pasadena FAQ
Do I need a permit for a pool deck in Anne Arundel County?
Yes. Any pool, pool deck, or pool barrier requires a building permit from the Anne Arundel County Permit Center. Decks over 30 inches above grade require a separate deck permit.
What height does my pool fence need to be?
At least 48 inches (4 feet) tall under IRC Appendix G as adopted by Anne Arundel County. There can be no more than a 2-inch gap at the bottom of the fence, and pickets cannot be more than 4 inches apart.
Can I use chain link for a pool fence?
Yes, but the mesh size cannot exceed 2-1/4 inches square unless the fence has slats fastened at top or bottom that reduce openings to no more than 1-3/4 inches.
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