Fencing Requirements: Boston vs Chelsea

Boston pools deeper than 24 inches require a 48-inch barrier under 780 CMR Appendix G and ISPSC 305, with self-closing self-latching outswing gates and climbable-surface controls.

Chelsea is a dense urban city in Suffolk County where residential pools are uncommon and treated as accessory uses under Chapter 34 (Zoning) of the City of Chelsea Code of Ordinances. Pool barriers themselves are governed by Massachusetts state code: 780 CMR (the State Building Code, which adopts IRC Appendix G / AG105) and 105 CMR 435, plus M.G.L. c. 143. The Chelsea Inspectional Services Department issues building permits and enforces a 48-inch barrier, self-closing/self-latching gate, and the 4-inch sphere rule.