All residential swimming pools deeper than 24 inches must be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates that open outward away from the pool. Requirements come from the Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code, which adopts the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC). Permits are issued by the Department of Safety and Permits.
Under the ISPSC as adopted statewide, any pool, spa, or hot tub holding water more than 24 inches deep must be surrounded by a barrier at least 48 inches in height measured on the side facing away from the pool. Vertical members must be spaced no more than 4 inches apart, and any horizontal members on the pool side must be at least 45 inches apart to prevent climbing. Gates must swing outward, be self-closing and self-latching, with the latch installed at least 54 inches above grade. Where a dwelling wall serves as part of the barrier, doors leading directly to the pool area must be equipped with an alarm sounding within 7 seconds of opening, or the pool itself must have a power safety cover meeting ASTM F1346. Above-ground pools may use the pool wall as the barrier if it is at least 48 inches high and any ladder is removable or has a lockable enclosure. Drains must be compliant with the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act to prevent entrapment. Inspections are required before water is added. New Orleans has additional flood elevation requirements for in-ground pools located in Special Flood Hazard Areas, which cover most of the city, and pool decks must not impede stormwater drainage.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact New Orleans code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
New Orleans, LA
City Code Ch. 66, Art. IV defines nighttime quiet hours as 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. on weekdays and 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. on weekends. In residential receiv...
New Orleans, LA
New Orleans has no general city ordinance regulating residential lawn ornaments, statuary, or religious displays. However, the Vieux Carré Commission and His...
New Orleans, LA
New Orleans has no city ordinance specifically regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Inflatables are permitted on private property subject to r...
New Orleans, LA
New Orleans has no city ordinance specifying installation dates, removal deadlines, or brightness limits for residential holiday light displays. However, pro...
New Orleans, LA
Built-in outdoor kitchens in New Orleans require building, gas, electrical, and plumbing permits through the Department of Safety and Permits via the One Sto...
New Orleans, LA
New Orleans has no city ordinance specifically regulating residential backyard smokers, pellet grills, or wood-fired ovens. Operation is governed by general ...
See how New Orleans's pool barriers rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.