Key Facts Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources

Union County, NJ Fence Regulations: Pool Barriers (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

Verified 1 month ago|Source: N.J.A.C. 5:23-3.14 Pool Barriers →

Recently verified

Key Facts

Min Height: 48 in state / 60 in Elizabeth
Gate: Self-closing, self-latching, 54-in release
Openings: Less than 4-inch sphere
State Code: N.J.A.C. 5:23-3.14
Door Alarms

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Union County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

Summary

NJ Uniform Construction Code (N.J.A.C. 5:23-3.14) mandates minimum 4-ft pool barriers. Elizabeth and most Union County towns require 5-ft fences with self-closing, self-latching gates. Mandatory at pool permit inspection.

Full Breakdown

NJ Uniform Construction Code (N.J.A.C. 5:23-3.14, adopting IRC Appendix G) requires barriers around all residential pools, spas, and hot tubs over 24 inches deep. Minimum barrier height is 48 inches; Elizabeth, Union Township, and many Union County municipalities require 60 inches (5 ft) by local code. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching with the release mechanism at least 54 inches above grade. Fence openings must not allow passage of a 4-inch sphere. House walls may serve as part of the barrier if doors to the pool area have alarms audible throughout the house. Above-ground pools with 48-inch sides and a removable/lockable ladder may satisfy barrier rules. Power safety covers meeting ASTM F1346 may substitute for spa barriers. Inspection at pool permit final; CCO renewal may re-verify.

Violations & Fines

Non-compliant barriers: immediate correction, pool drained or covered until remediated. Fines $500–$2,000 per N.J.A.C. 5:23-2.31. Drowning liability: civil suit, potential criminal charges for gross negligence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who enforces pool barriers rules in Union County?

Union County's code enforcement division is responsible for fences ordinances. You can report violations or request information through the Union County government website or by calling the main municipal line.

What are typical penalties for violating pool barriers rules?

Most Union County fences violations start with a written warning followed by escalating civil fines for repeat offenses. Specific dollar amounts and any criminal-misdemeanor exposure depend on the section of code; consult Union County's municipal code or staff for the current penalty schedule.

How does Union County compare?

See how Union County's pool barriers rules stack up against other locations.

Compare to Another Location View New Jersey Overview

Union County, NJ Fence Regulations: Pool Barriers (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

Related Union County Ordinances

Noise Ordinances: Leaf Blower Rules

Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles

Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding

Fire Regulations: Wildfire Zones

Landscaping Rules: Artificial Turf

Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting

More Fence Regulations in Union County

Pool Barriers in Other Cities

How does Union County compare?

See something wrong?