Fairfield, CA Fence Regulations: Pool Barriers (2026)

Fairfield Building Safety enforces the California Building Code Appendix V (Swimming Pool Safety Act) and FMC §14.5 for pool barriers. Pools deeper than 18 inches must be surrounded by an enclosure fence or building wall at least 60 inches but not more than 72 inches tall. Openings cannot pass a 4-inch sphere; the maximum vertical gap between grade and the bottom of the barrier is 2 inches. The outside surface must be free of handholds or footholds usable by a child under age 5. Access gates open outward (away from the pool) and have a self-closing, self-latching mechanism with the release at least 54 inches above grade. Under California Health & Safety Code §115921 (Pool Safety Act, amended 2018), permits for new construction or remodeling require the pool to incorporate at least two of seven drowning-prevention features: isolation enclosure, mesh fence, ASTM safety cover, exit alarms on doors leading to the pool, self-closing/self-latching home doors, pool water alarms, or other approved means. Pre-plaster and final inspections by Building Safety verify the barrier and chosen features.