Swimming pools in Charlotte must be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high per NC Residential Code §R326 and the NC Building Code. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching, opening outward from the pool. Openings cannot permit passage of a 4-inch sphere. Above-ground pools with ladders that are secured or removable may use the pool wall as the barrier.
Pool barrier requirements in Charlotte follow NC Residential Code Appendix G (§R326 in newer editions) and NC Building Code §3109, which adopt the International Residential Code pool safety standard with state amendments. Applies to all pools, spas, and hot tubs 24 inches or deeper.
Barrier specifications: - Minimum height: 48 inches measured from the exterior side (ground) - Maximum gap between barrier bottom and ground: 2 inches (4 inches on solid surfaces) - Openings: must not allow passage of a 4-inch sphere (or 1.75-inch for certain configurations) - Vertical members: spacing under 4 inches; for chain link, mesh size 1.25 inches maximum - Horizontal members: if less than 45 inches apart, vertical openings between them cannot exceed 1.75 inches
Gate requirements: - Self-closing, self-latching - Latch at least 54 inches above the ground, OR on the pool side with shielded opening - Opens outward away from the pool - Must be locked when pool is unattended
Dwelling walls as barrier: If the house wall serves as part of the barrier, all doors leading to the pool area must have alarms (audible 85 dB within 7 feet, activates within 7 seconds of door opening) OR a power safety cover on the pool OR self-closing/self-latching doors with special locking at 54 inches.
Above-ground pools: Pool walls 48+ inches above ground can serve as the barrier. Ladders must be removable or lockable to prevent access. Decks around above-ground pools must still provide a barrier on the deck perimeter.
Permits: All in-ground pools require a building permit through Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement (consolidated with Charlotte). Above-ground pools over 24 inches deep require a permit. Barrier installation is inspected as part of the final pool inspection, and a Certificate of Occupancy will not issue until compliant.
HOA standards: Covenants often require solid (not chain link) barriers, specific materials, or additional setback from property lines.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Charlotte code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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