Every residential pool in Harford County must be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high with a self-closing, self-latching gate that opens outward. The county enforces the 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, and no pool may be filled before the barrier is approved.
Pool barriers are one of Harford County's strictest residential rules. The county's Division of Building Services enforces the 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, which requires any pool or spa holding more than 24 inches of water to be surrounded by a barrier whose top is at least 48 inches above grade on the side facing away from the pool, with gaps too small for a child to slip through. Pedestrian gates must open outward, self-close, and self-latch. No owner or contractor may fill a new pool until the permanent or temporary barrier is approved. Powered safety covers are no longer accepted as a substitute barrier in Harford County.
A pool without a compliant 48-inch barrier fails inspection and cannot be filled or used until corrected. An unpermitted pool or missing self-latching gate draws building-code enforcement and fines.
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