Auburn, WA Fence Regulations: Pool Barriers (2026)

Auburn adopts the Washington State Building Code, which incorporates IRC Appendix G pool barrier requirements. Any residential swimming pool, spa, or hot tub with water more than 24 inches deep must be completely enclosed by a barrier. Minimum barrier specifications: 48 inches tall measured from the ground on the side facing away from the pool; maximum 2-inch gap under the barrier on the outside; no openings through which a 4-inch sphere can pass; horizontal cross-members must be on the pool side or spaced at least 45 inches apart vertically to prevent climbing. Gates must swing outward away from the pool, be self-closing and self-latching, with latches at least 54 inches high or mounted on the pool side of the gate. When a house wall serves as part of the barrier, all direct-access doors from the house must have alarms meeting UL 2017 or be accessible only through a self-closing, self-latching gate meeting barrier specs. Hot tubs and spas with locking rigid safety covers meeting ASTM F1346 are exempt from the full barrier requirement. Auburn Building inspectors verify barriers at final pool inspection. Pool permits are issued through the Auburn Permit Center.