Fencing Requirements: St. Clair Shores vs Sterling Heights
How do fencing requirements rules compare between St. Clair Shores, MI and Sterling Heights, MI?
St. Clair Shores and Sterling Heights have similar restriction levels.
St. Clair Shores, MI
Macomb County
Michigan requires every residential pool to be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches (4 feet) high, with self-closing, self-latching gates that swing away from the pool. This state code is enforced by your Macomb County city or township building department, not the county.
View full St. Clair Shores rules →Sterling Heights, MI
Macomb County
Michigan Building Code requires pool barriers at least 48 inches (4 feet) high. Self-closing, self-latching gates required. Prevents unsupervised child access.
View full Sterling Heights rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | St. Clair Shores | Sterling Heights |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum barrier height | 48 inches (4 feet) | - |
| Max gap under barrier | 2 inches | - |
| Gates | Self-closing, self-latching, swing outward | Self-closing, self-latching |
| Code basis | MI Residential Code R327 / ISPSC | - |
| Enforced by | City/township building dept | - |
| Height | - | 48 inches (4 feet) minimum |
| Latch Height | - | 54 inches from ground |
| Ground Gap | - | Max 4 inches |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
St. Clair Shores FAQ
How tall must a pool fence be in Macomb County?
At least 48 inches (4 feet) high under the Michigan Residential Code / ISPSC, measured on the side facing away from the pool, with no more than a 2-inch gap underneath. Local building departments enforce this.
What are the gate rules?
Gates must swing away from the pool, be self-closing and self-latching, with the latch release on the pool side. Macomb Township specifies the latch be placed 54 inches above grade on the outside of the gate.
Can my above-ground pool wall be the barrier?
Yes, if the ladder or steps can be secured, locked, or removed, or are surrounded by a compliant barrier. Doors with direct access to the pool must also have an audible alarm.
Sterling Heights FAQ
Do I need a fence around my pool?
Yes. Michigan Building Code requires a barrier (fence, wall, or approved cover) around all residential pools and spas.
Can my house wall be part of the barrier?
Yes, if all doors accessing the pool have alarms or self-closing mechanisms.
Compare other topics
See how St. Clair Shores and Sterling Heights compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool