Bellevue, WA Fence Regulations: Pool Barriers (2026)

Bellevue adopts the Washington State Building Code, which incorporates the International Residential Code (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. Barrier requirements: minimum 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 could pass; horizontal cross-members must be on the pool side or spaced at least 45 inches apart vertically; gates must swing outward (away from the pool), be self-closing and self-latching, with latches 54 inches or higher or mounted on the pool side. When a house wall serves as part of the barrier, all direct-access doors from the house must have alarms or be accessible only through a self-closing, self-latching gate meeting barrier specs. Hot tubs and spas with locking rigid safety covers that meet ASTM F1346 are exempt from the full barrier requirement. Bellevue inspectors verify barriers during final building inspection. Pool permits are issued through Development Services.