Every residential pool in Norfolk must be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high with a self-closing, self-latching gate, under the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code. A building permit and inspection are required.
Pool barriers are one of Norfolk's strictest residential rules, set by the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code, which adopts the International residential and building codes. Any residential swimming pool, spa, or hot tub deeper than 24 inches must be surrounded by a barrier at least 48 inches high measured on the side facing away from the pool, with openings small enough that a four-inch sphere cannot pass through. Pedestrian gates must be self-closing and self-latching, with the latch release placed high on the gate. Norfolk requires a building permit and inspection before the pool is filled and used.
A pool without a compliant 48-inch barrier fails inspection, and Norfolk can bar the pool's use until it is corrected. An unpermitted pool or missing self-latching gate draws building-code enforcement and fines.
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