Palm Springs, CA Fence Regulations: Pool Barriers (2026)

Pool and spa barriers in Palm Springs follow state law and the California Residential/Building Code as adopted by the city. Under California Health and Safety Code §115922, any new pool or spa or any pool/spa undergoing remodel at a single-family home must be equipped with at least two of seven approved drowning-prevention safety features, including: an enclosure (fence/wall) meeting the five-foot separation standard; a removable mesh pool fence with self-closing self-latching gate; an approved safety pool cover; exit alarms on all doors providing direct access from the home to the pool; a self-closing, self-latching device on doors providing direct access from the home with release at least 54 inches above the floor; an alarm that activates on unintentional entry; or other means providing equivalent protection. The enclosure option (most common) requires: minimum 60-inch (5-foot) height measured from outside grade; no openings greater than 4 inches; no horizontal members that could function as a ladder within 45 inches of grade (for 48–59 inch fences); gates that open outward and are self-closing and self-latching with the release mechanism at least 54 inches above the ground. Chain-link fence openings must be reduced to 1.75 inches or less if used. Permits are required for all pool construction and for any barrier installed as part of pool safety compliance. Palm Springs Building and Safety inspects barriers before final pool approval. Short-term rentals under PSMC Ch. 5.25 must maintain full pool barrier compliance and disclose pool safety to guests; STR violations affecting pool safety can trigger permit suspension.