Lakewood, NJ Fence Regulations: Pool Barriers (2026)

New Jersey regulates pool barriers through the NJ Uniform Construction Code (N.J.A.C. 5:23) which incorporates the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code 2018 (Chapter 3 Barrier Requirements). Any pool or spa over 24 inches deep requires a UCC building permit and compliant barrier. Minimum barrier height: 48 inches measured from the outside grade. Openings must not pass a 4-inch sphere. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching with release hardware at least 54 inches above the ground, opening outward away from the pool. Picket spacing: less than 1.75 inches if the top rail is within 45 inches of the ground. Above-ground pools with 48-inch walls and removable/locked ladder may satisfy the barrier if access is controlled. Toms River specifically addresses pool enclosures via Ordinance 4422 and requires Board of Health sign-off on design. Many Ocean County towns (Brick, Seaside Heights, Lavallette, Bay Head) require a 5-foot fence locally — stricter than state minimum. House walls may form part of the barrier only if doors from the house are equipped with pool alarms (ISPSC 305.3).