Arlington, TX Fence Regulations: Pool Barriers (2026)

Under Texas Health & Safety Code §757.003 and Arlington's adopted International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, all outdoor residential pools containing water more than 18 inches deep must be surrounded by a barrier at least 48 inches high measured from the exterior ground surface. Openings in the barrier cannot allow a 4-inch sphere to pass through. Horizontal members less than 45 inches apart must be on the pool side of the barrier to prevent climbing. Gates must open outward away from the pool, be self-closing, and have a self-latching mechanism located at least 54 inches from the ground or on the pool side of the gate. When a house wall serves as part of the barrier, all doors leading to the pool area must have either a pool alarm or a self-closing/self-latching device. Above-ground pools with walls at least 48 inches high may use the pool wall as the barrier, provided ladders are removable, lockable, or surrounded by a barrier. Mesh safety covers meeting ASTM F1346 may substitute for some barrier requirements on spas and hot tubs. Final pool barrier inspection is required before the pool is filled or used. Violations carry fines and can result in pool closure orders.