San Ramon, CA Fence Regulations: Pool Barriers (2026)

Swimming pool safety barriers in San Ramon must comply with California Health and Safety Code §115920-115929 (Swimming Pool Safety Act) as well as local building code amendments. Core requirements: pool enclosure fence minimum 60 inches (5 feet) in height measured from the outside ground level, no climbable features within 24 inches of the top, vertical members no more than 4 inches apart, no gaps under the fence greater than 2 inches. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching, with latches mounted at least 60 inches above the ground (outside of child's reach), and opening outward from the pool. For pools constructed or substantially remodeled after 2007, California law requires at least two of the following seven safety features: (1) enclosure meeting §115923 (5-ft fence), (2) pool cover meeting ASTM F1346, (3) exit alarms on dwelling doors leading to pool area, (4) self-closing/self-latching dwelling doors, (5) motion detection in pool, (6) removable mesh pool fencing meeting ASTM F2286 with self-closing/latching gate, or (7) approved pool alarm meeting ASTM F2208. Real estate transfer disclosure is required — pool safety compliance must be disclosed at sale. San Ramon Building Division reviews pool construction plans for barrier compliance and conducts final inspection before issuing certificate of occupancy for the pool. Retrofit requirements: pools pre-dating 1998 enclosure requirements are grandfathered for base fence requirement but must add safety features upon substantial remodel. Spa and hot tub requirements: if over 18 inches deep, barrier requirements apply; covered spas meeting ASTM F1346 may satisfy the barrier requirement alone. HOA common pools in Dougherty Valley, Canyon Lakes, and similar communities have additional lifeguard/signage/capacity requirements under California Title 22 and Contra Costa County Public Health regulations. Drowning prevention is the clear public safety priority; fines for non-compliance are significant and insurance/liability exposure in injury cases is substantial.