The Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code requires a 48-inch barrier around residential swimming pools and spas, preempting local pool fencing rules statewide.
Under Va. Code Section 36-99 and the USBC (13 VAC 5-63), barriers around residential pools and spas deeper than 24 inches must be at least 48 inches above grade on the side facing away from the pool. Openings cannot allow a 4-inch sphere to pass. Vertical clearance under the barrier cannot exceed 2 inches over uneven ground or 4 inches over solid surfaces. Pedestrian gates must open outward, self-close, and self-latch with the latch at least 54 inches above grade. The pool side of the barrier must be at least 20 inches from water's edge. The USBC supersedes conflicting local ordinances on pool barrier construction.
Building code violation; stop-work orders, daily fines, and certificate of occupancy denial under USBC enforcement.
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