Pool Barriers: Rialto vs San Bernardino
How do pool barriers rules compare between Rialto, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
Rialto and San Bernardino have similar restriction levels.
Rialto, CA
San Bernardino County
California Health & Safety Code §115922 (Swimming Pool Safety Act, amended by SB 442) preempts local rules. New or remodeled residential pools must have at least two of seven drowning prevention safety features, one of which is an enclosure meeting HSC §115923. Rialto enforces via building permits issued under Rialto Code Title 15.
View full Rialto rules →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
California Health and Safety Code 115920 through 115929 (Swimming Pool Safety Act) requires a 60-inch non-climbable barrier plus at least one additional drowning-prevention feature for residential pools.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Rialto | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Law | Cal. HSC §115922 (SB 442 Pool Safety Act) | - |
| Safety Features | At least 2 of 7 listed features required | - |
| Fence Height | Minimum 60 in (5 ft) per HSC §115923 | - |
| Gap Limit | Max 4 inches between vertical members | - |
| Gates | Self-closing, self-latching, open outward from pool | - |
| State Law | - | H&S Code 115920 through 115929 |
| Barrier Height | - | 60 inches minimum |
| Opening Limit | - | 4 inches maximum |
| Required Features | - | At least 2 of 7 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Rialto FAQ
How tall does my pool fence have to be in Rialto?
California Health & Safety Code §115923 requires pool enclosures to be at least 60 inches (5 feet) tall with gaps no greater than 4 inches and self-closing, self-latching gates that open outward from the pool.
Do I need a fence if I have a pool cover?
Under Cal. HSC §115922 you must have at least two of seven drowning prevention features. An ASTM F1346-23 safety pool cover counts as one feature, but you still need a second feature such as an enclosure, exit alarms, or self-closing door latches.
San Bernardino FAQ
Is a five-foot fence enough?
The barrier itself must be 60 inches, and state law also requires at least one additional drowning-prevention feature such as a door alarm or safety cover.
Do these rules apply to spas?
Yes. Residential in-ground spas and above-ground pools taller than 18 inches fall under the Swimming Pool Safety Act.
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