5 rules for unincorporated Stark County, Ohio.
Verified from official government sources
Yes. Ohio has no countywide pool ordinance, but the Residential Code of Ohio requires a building permit and code-compliant barrier for residential pools. Apply through your city building department (Canton, Massillon) or the township/county building authority for unincorporated land.
Residential pools in Stark County must be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high under the Residential Code of Ohio. Openings cannot pass a 4-inch sphere, and gates must be self-closing and self-latching.
Residential Code of Ohio, residential swimming pool barriers (IRC §3109.4)
The top of the barrier shall be not less than 48 inches (1219 mm) above grade. Openings in the barrier shall not allow passage of a 4-inch-diameter (102 mm) sphere.
Under the Residential Code of Ohio, pool gates must open away from the pool and be self-closing with a self-latching device. Public pools in Stark County must meet Ohio Administrative Code 3701-31 barrier and lifeguard standards enforced by Stark County Public Health.
Residential Code of Ohio, residential swimming pool barriers (IRC §3109.4)
Pedestrian access gates shall open outward away from the pool and shall be self-closing and have a self-latching device.
Above-ground pools in Stark County still need a code-compliant barrier under the Residential Code of Ohio. If the pool wall serves as the barrier, the ladder or steps must be removable, lockable, or secured to block access when the pool is unattended.
Residential Code of Ohio, residential swimming pool barriers (IRC §3109.4)
Where an above-ground pool structure is used as a barrier or where the barrier is mounted on top of the pool structure, and the means of access is a ladder or steps, then the ladder or steps either shall be capable of being secured, locked or removed to prevent access.
Stark County has no separate hot-tub ordinance. Under the Residential Code of Ohio, a spa or hot tub fitted with a safety cover meeting ASTM F1346 does not need a full pool barrier. Without a compliant cover, the 48-inch barrier rules apply.
Residential Code of Ohio, residential swimming pool barriers (IRC §3109.4, exception)
A swimming pool with a power safety cover or a spa with a safety cover complying with ASTM F1346 need not comply with this section.
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