Chelsea, MA Fence Regulations: Pool Barriers (2026)

Swimming pool barrier requirements in Suffolk County are state-level and strictly enforced. 105 CMR 435 (State Sanitary Code Chapter V, 'Minimum Standards for Swimming Pools') and 780 CMR Appendix G set the uniform standard. Any pool, spa, or hot tub containing 24+ inches of water depth requires a compliant barrier — including inflatable pools. Key requirements: Pools built before October 2, 1975: minimum 4-foot fence with self-latching gates. Pools built on or after October 2, 1975: 6-foot fence minimum (5 feet if board/stockade), self-closing and self-latching gates with the latch located at least 54 inches above grade, and no opening permitted to exceed 3 inches in any dimension. The 780 CMR Appendix G (adopting IRC Appendix G) alternatively requires a 48-inch barrier for residential pools with similar gate and opening requirements, plus house-wall entries equipped with alarms or self-closing doors if the house wall serves as part of the barrier. Above-ground pools with non-climbable sides 48+ inches high may satisfy the barrier requirement; the ladder must be removable or lockable when not in use. Permits are required before installation in all four Suffolk County municipalities (Boston ISD, Chelsea, Revere, Winthrop Building Departments). Inspection confirms barrier compliance before filling. Hot tubs and spas with a lockable cover meeting ASTM F1346 may be exempt from fencing per local interpretation. Violations trigger immediate correction orders and pool-draining until compliant.