Safety Rules: Converse vs San Antonio
How do safety rules rules compare between Converse, TX and San Antonio, TX?
San Antonio has fewer restrictions than Converse.
Converse, TX
Bexar County
Converse pools must meet the federal VGB Act with anti-entrapment drain covers on newer or resurfaced residential pools. Barriers, NEC 680 bonding, GFCI protection, and safe chemical storage are also required.
View full Converse rules →San Antonio, TX
Bexar County
Texas Health & Safety Code Ch. 757 (Pool Yard Enclosure Act) sets statewide pool fencing rules but applies ONLY to multi-unit rental and POA pools — not single-family backyard pools. Bexar County has no separate pool safety ordinance for unincorporated areas. CPSC and VGB Act federal rules apply.
View full San Antonio rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Converse | San Antonio |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Law | VGB Pool and Spa Safety Act | - |
| Drain Covers | ANSI/APSP-16 compliant required | - |
| Secondary System | SVRS or equivalent on single-drain pools | - |
| Electrical | NEC 680 bonding and GFCI | - |
| TX Child Drowning | Leading accidental death age 1 to 4 | - |
| State Law (Multi-Unit/POA) | - | Tex. H&S Code Ch. 757 |
| Single-Family County Rule | - | None |
| Required Fence (where Ch. 757 applies) | - | 48 in, no chain-link post-1994 |
| Gates | - | Self-closing, self-latching |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Converse FAQ
Does the VGB Act apply to my backyard pool?
Yes if the pool was constructed or resurfaced after the act took effect in 2008, or for any drain covers replaced on or after that date. Certified covers must carry the VGB/ANSI compliance marking.
What is a SVRS?
A Safety Vacuum Release System automatically shuts off the pump if a body blocks a drain, preventing entrapment. It is one acceptable secondary anti-entrapment system on single-main-drain pools.
Where can I get CPR training?
The American Red Cross and American Heart Association both offer CPR and AED training. Poolside CPR knowledge greatly improves survival after a submersion incident.
San Antonio FAQ
Does Bexar County require a fence around my backyard pool?
No county ordinance requires it for single-family pools in unincorporated areas. The Texas Pool Yard Enclosure Act (Ch. 757) applies only to multi-unit rental and POA pools. HOA rules and homeowner liability still strongly favor a 48-inch self-latching enclosure.
Who enforces pool safety for apartments and HOA pools?
The city if inside city limits, or by private action at the sale of the property. Bexar County does not inspect private pools. Confirm enforcement scope with Bexar County Public Works at 210-335-6700.
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