Moreno Valley, CA Fence Regulations: Pool Barriers (2026)

California's Pool Safety Act (Health and Safety Code sections 115920-115929) and the California Building Code Appendix Chapter V require that all new residential swimming pools and spas deeper than 18 inches have a compliant enclosure. Moreno Valley Building and Safety enforces these rules during pool permit inspections. The enclosure fence must be at least 60 inches (5 feet) tall measured from the outside, have no gaps larger than 4 inches, and have no horizontal members between 45 inches that could be used as a ladder. Gates must open outward away from the pool, be self-closing and self-latching, with the release mechanism at least 54 inches above the ground. Under California law effective 2018, new pool installations must include at least two of seven approved drowning-prevention features, which include: an enclosure fence, removable mesh fencing with self-closing/latching gate, approved pool safety cover (ASTM F1346), exit alarms on doors providing direct access to the pool, self-closing/latching devices at least 54 inches above ground on all doors providing pool access, an alarm that activates when the pool surface is disturbed, or other approved means. Existing pools before 2018 are typically grandfathered but must still maintain original barrier requirements.