Pima County, AZ Fence Regulations: Pool Barriers (2026)

Arizona state law ARS 36-1681 and ARS 11-812 establish mandatory swimming pool barrier requirements that Pima County enforces in unincorporated areas. Every residential swimming pool, spa, or hot tub capable of holding 18 inches or more of water must be enclosed by a barrier at least 5 feet in height. The barrier must not have openings, handholds, or footholds that would allow a child to climb over it. Gates in the barrier must be self-closing and self-latching, with the latch located at least 54 inches above the ground or otherwise inaccessible to young children. As an alternative to a full barrier, property owners may install door alarms on all doors and windows providing direct access to the pool area, or use an approved safety pool cover that meets ASTM F1346 standards. Existing pools must comply within the timeframes specified by state law. Pima County Development Services reviews pool barrier compliance during building inspections for new pool construction. The law was strengthened after multiple child drowning incidents in Arizona. Inflatable pools and above-ground pools with walls 48 inches or higher may satisfy the barrier requirement with the pool wall itself if access ladders are removable.