Federal Way requires a 4-foot minimum barrier around residential pools under IRC Appendix G and FWRC. Self-closing, self-latching gates required. Pools 24 inches deep or more trigger the barrier rule.
Federal Way enforces International Residential Code (IRC) Appendix G pool barrier requirements adopted through FWRC Title 13 and the Washington State Building Code. Any residential swimming pool, spa, or hot tub with water depth 24 inches or greater must be surrounded by a barrier at least 48 inches tall measured on the side away from the pool. The barrier must have no footholds or handholds; openings must not allow passage of a 4-inch sphere, and horizontal members must be at least 45 inches apart or have vertical spacing of 1 and 3/4 inches or less. Gates must open outward from the pool, be self-closing and self-latching, with latch release at least 54 inches above ground. When a house wall serves as part of the barrier, all doors leading to the pool must have alarms or the pool must have a power safety cover. Above-ground pools may use the pool wall as barrier if at least 48 inches tall with a removable or lockable ladder. Spas with locking rigid covers meeting ASTM F1346 may be exempt from the fence requirement.
Missing or defective pool barriers are a building code violation and civil liability exposure. Code Compliance can order correction within 30 days. Fines up to $500 per day.
Federal Way, WA
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Federal Way, WA
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Federal Way, WA
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Federal Way, WA
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Federal Way, WA
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Federal Way, WA
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