Tulare, CA Fence Regulations: Pool Barriers (2026)

Two layers apply. Locally, Tulare Municipal Code § 10.16.160 states pool fences shall have a minimum height of 5 feet. At the state level, California Health & Safety Code §§ 115920–115929 (the Swimming Pool Safety Act) requires every new or remodeled residential pool or spa to be equipped with at least two of seven approved drowning-prevention safety features. The enclosure option requires: minimum 60-inch height, maximum 2-inch ground clearance, no opening that allows passage of a 4-inch-diameter sphere, and an exterior free of footholds for a child under 5. Access gates must open away from the pool and be self-closing with a self-latching device installed no lower than 60 inches above the ground. Other approved features include removable mesh fencing meeting ASTM F2286, ASTM F1346 safety covers, exit alarms on doors leading to the pool area, self-closing/self-latching doors at the dwelling, ASTM F2208 pool alarms, and other approved means. The California Building Code Appendix V incorporates these standards into Tulare's construction permitting.