Colonie, NY Fence Regulations: Pool Barriers (2026)

New York State adopted the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) by reference into the State Uniform Code under 19 NYCRR Part 1228, and the Town of Colonie enforces it as the local pool-barrier standard. The ISPSC section 305 barrier requirements applicable to residential pools include: minimum 48-inch barrier height measured on the side of the barrier facing away from the pool; maximum 2-inch clearance between the bottom of the barrier and grade (or 4 inches on the pool side over a solid surface); openings small enough that a 4-inch-diameter sphere cannot pass through; for solid barriers, no indentations or protrusions other than normal construction tolerances; for chain link, mesh openings no greater than 1.75 inches unless slatted to reduce the clear opening; horizontal members spaced less than 45 inches apart must be on the pool side to prevent climbing; gates open outward away from the pool and must be self-closing and self-latching, with the release mechanism at least 54 inches above grade on the inside. Where a dwelling wall serves as part of the barrier, all doors with direct access to the pool must be equipped with an audible alarm meeting UL 2017 or a self-closing/self-latching device. The barrier and gates must be in place and pass inspection before water is added to the pool - this is enforced through the building permit (see swimming-pools/pool-permits).