Durham adopts NC Building Code pool barrier standards requiring 48-inch barriers around residential pools. Pool fences on single-family parcels need a building permit.
Pool barriers in Durham follow the North Carolina Residential Building Code Section R326 (formerly R314) and NC Building Code Section 3109. All residential swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs must be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high measured on the exterior side. The maximum gap between grade and the bottom of the barrier is 2 inches. Openings must not allow passage of a 4-inch sphere. Access gates must open outward away from the pool, be self-closing, and have a self-latching device. Where horizontal members exist with less than 45 inches between tops, they must face the pool side to prevent climbing. Durham requires a building permit for pool barriers on single-family residential parcels. Contact Durham Development Services at 919-560-4137 for permit applications.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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See how Durham's pool barriers rules stack up against other locations.
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