Pool Barriers: Bellevue vs Renton
How do pool barriers rules compare between Bellevue, WA and Renton, WA?
Bellevue and Renton have similar restriction levels.
Bellevue, WA
King County
Pools over 24 inches deep need a 48-inch barrier with self-closing self-latching gates under the Washington State Building Code and IRC Appendix G. Openings must not pass a 4-inch sphere.
View full Bellevue rules →Renton, WA
King County
Swimming pools and spas deeper than 24 inches in Renton require a barrier at least 48 inches tall with self-closing and self-latching gates under the International Residential Code Appendix G as adopted by RMC 4-5-060.
View full Renton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bellevue | Renton |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 48 inches minimum | - |
| Sphere Gap | No 4-inch pass-through | - |
| Gate | Self-close, self-latch | - |
| Code | IRC Appendix G / WSBC | - |
| Minimum Barrier Height | - | 48 inches |
| Ground Clearance | - | Max 4 inches |
| Gates | - | Self-closing, self-latching |
| Latch Height | - | 54 in above ground |
| Code Reference | - | IRC Appendix G via RMC 4-5-060 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bellevue FAQ
Does a pool cover replace a fence in Bellevue?
No. Pool covers do not replace a 48-inch barrier. Only rigid locking safety covers meeting ASTM F1346 on hot tubs and spas qualify as an alternative.
Do I need a fence around an above-ground pool?
Yes, if water depth exceeds 24 inches. The pool wall may serve as the barrier if at least 48 inches tall and the ladder is removable or lockable.
Renton FAQ
Does a hot tub need a pool barrier in Renton?
A hot tub with a lockable, code-compliant safety cover meeting ASTM F1346 standards can satisfy the barrier requirement in place of a full fence.
Can my house wall be part of the pool barrier?
Yes, but all doors and windows opening into the pool area must have alarms, lockable window guards, or other code-approved protection.
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