Kansas City requires swimming pools deeper than 24 inches to be enclosed by a 48-inch barrier with self-closing self-latching gate under the adopted International Swimming Pool and Spa Code.
Kansas City has adopted the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) as part of its building code. Any pool, spa, or permanent water feature deeper than 24 inches must be surrounded by a barrier at least 48 inches high measured from the outside. Openings in the barrier cannot allow passage of a 4-inch sphere. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching with the latch at least 54 inches above grade, opening outward from the pool. The home wall may serve as part of the barrier if doors leading to the pool have alarms or self-closing devices. Above-ground pools with sides at least 48 inches tall can use a secured removable ladder in lieu of a separate fence. Hot tubs and spas with locking rigid covers are exempt from the fence requirement. Inspection is required at pool permit final. Non-compliant pools can be tagged as unsafe and drained until brought into compliance. Drowning is a leading cause of death for young children, and these rules align with national standards.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Kansas City code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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