Fencing Requirements: Everett vs Lynnwood
How do fencing requirements rules compare between Everett, WA and Lynnwood, WA?
Lynnwood has fewer restrictions than Everett.
Everett, WA
Snohomish County
Everett requires pool barriers to prevent unsupervised child access. Minimum 48-inch height per WA Building Code. Self-closing, self-latching gates.
View full Everett rules →Lynnwood, WA
Snohomish County
Lynnwood adopts the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) by reference under Lynnwood Municipal Code 16.24.010, as amended by the Washington State Building Code Council. Residential pools and spas more than 24 inches deep require a barrier at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates, openings that will not pass a 4-inch sphere, and maximum 4-inch ground clearance. A building permit is required.
View full Lynnwood rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Everett | Lynnwood |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 48 inches (4 ft) minimum | - |
| Gates | Self-closing, self-latching | Self-closing, self-latching |
| Latch | 54" high or pool side | - |
| State Code | WA Building Code (IRC) | - |
| Code Section | - | LMC 16.24.010 (adopts ISPSC) |
| Min. Barrier Height | - | 48 inches |
| Applies To | - | Pools/spas over 24 in. deep |
| Latch Height | - | 54 in. above grade (exterior) |
| Max. Opening | - | Will not pass 4-in. sphere |
| Permit | - | Building permit required |
| State Authority | - | RCW 19.27.031; WAC 51-58 (ISPSC) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Everett FAQ
Do I need a pool fence?
Yes. Barriers required around all residential pools and spas.
Can my house wall count?
Yes, if doors have alarms or self-closing mechanisms.
Lynnwood FAQ
Do I need a fence around my swimming pool in Lynnwood?
Yes. Lynnwood adopts the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (LMC 16.24.010), which requires any pool or spa more than 24 inches deep to be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates and openings that will not pass a 4-inch sphere.
Does my hot tub need a fence?
Not if it has a listed safety cover that complies with ASTM F1346. Hot tubs and spas with an approved locking cover are exempt from the barrier requirement under the ISPSC adopted by LMC 16.24.010.
Can my house wall count as part of the pool barrier?
Yes, if the doors leading from the house to the pool area are equipped with an audible alarm meeting code requirements, or the pool has an approved power safety cover. The remaining sides must still meet the 48-inch barrier standard.
Do I need a permit for a pool in Lynnwood?
Yes. A building permit from Lynnwood Development & Business Services is required for in-ground pools, above-ground pools deeper than 24 inches, and spas. An electrical permit from Washington L&I is required for any pool wiring and equipment bonding.
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