Madison requires residential pools deeper than 24 inches to be enclosed by a 48-inch or taller barrier with self-closing, self-latching gates, per MGO building code and WI Stat 145.17.
Pools capable of holding more than 24 inches of water (most in-ground and larger above-ground pools) must be fully enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high. Barriers may be dedicated pool fencing or the yard perimeter fence if it meets the 48-inch and gate requirements. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching with the latch located at least 54 inches above the ground or on the pool side of the gate. Openings in the barrier cannot allow passage of a 4-inch sphere. Above-ground pools can use their walls (if 48+ inches) as the barrier with a lockable ladder. Wisconsin Statute 145.17 governs private pool safety. VGB-compliant anti-entrapment drain covers are federally required. Pool fences require both a zoning and a building permit. Hot tubs with a locking rigid cover may substitute for a fence.
Non-compliant pools may not be filled or operated. Citations and mandatory drainage orders. Insurance implications significant.
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See how Madison's pool barriers rules stack up against other locations.
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