San Antonio adopts the 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) requiring permanent barriers around all residential pools. Barriers must be at least 48 inches tall. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching, with latches at least 54 inches above grade or on the pool side. Homes with direct pool access require alarms on doors and windows per Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 757.
San Antonio requires barriers around all residential swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs per building code and state safety requirements. Minimum barrier height is typically 48 to 60 inches. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching with latches at least 54 inches above grade. Fence openings must be small enough to prevent a 4-inch sphere from passing through. House walls can serve as part of the barrier if doors have alarms or self-closing mechanisms. Above-ground pools with sides 48 inches or higher may satisfy barrier requirements. Pool covers and alarms may supplement but typically cannot replace physical barriers.
Non-compliant barriers: immediate correction required. Fines $100 to $500. Pool use prohibited until barriers meet code. Liability exposure for accidents.
San Antonio, TX
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