Fairfax, VA Fence Regulations: Pool Barriers (2026)

Pool fencing in the City of Fairfax is controlled by the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code Appendix G, which the city adopts and enforces through Code Administration. Every in-ground and above-ground pool with a water depth of 24 inches or more must be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches in height measured from the outside. Openings in the barrier must be small enough to prevent a 4 inch sphere from passing through, and horizontal members on the outside must be spaced at least 45 inches apart to prevent climbing. Gates serving the pool barrier must be self-closing and self-latching, with the latch release at least 54 inches above the ground or on the pool side of the gate. Where a dwelling wall forms part of the barrier, doors leading from the dwelling to the pool area must have alarms. Hot tubs with a locked, lockable, rigid safety cover meeting ASTM F1346 may substitute for the barrier. Above-ground pools with ladders that lock or remove may use the pool wall itself as the barrier if at least 48 inches tall. A pool building permit and final inspection confirm compliance before the pool can be filled.