Kennewick, WA Fence Regulations: Pool Barriers (2026)

Washington State has adopted IBC Appendix G and the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) by reference into the State Building Code under WAC 51-50, and Kennewick enforces those standards locally through KMC Chapter 15.44 (Swimming Pool Code). For residential pools the barrier requirements track IBC Appendix G / ISPSC Section 305: minimum 48-inch barrier height measured on the side of the barrier facing away from the pool; maximum 2-inch clearance between the bottom of the barrier and grade (or 4 inches on the pool side over a solid surface); openings small enough that a 4-inch-diameter sphere cannot pass through; for solid barriers, no indentations or protrusions other than normal construction tolerances; for chain-link, mesh openings no greater than 1.75 inches unless slatted to reduce the clear opening; horizontal members spaced less than 45 inches apart must be on the pool side to prevent climbing; gates open outward away from the pool and must be self-closing and self-latching, with the release mechanism at least 54 inches above grade on the inside. Where a dwelling wall serves as part of the barrier, every door with direct access to the pool must be equipped with an audible alarm meeting UL 2017 or with a self-closing/self-latching device. The barrier and gates must be in place and pass inspection before water is added to the pool - enforced through the building permit (see swimming-pools/pool-permits).