Fairfax County, VA Fence Regulations: Pool Barriers (2026)

Pool barriers in Fairfax County are regulated by the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC), which adopts provisions of the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC). All pools (in-ground, above-ground, and some spas) with water deeper than 24 inches require a barrier. Requirements include: minimum 48-inch height measured from the outside grade, less than 2-inch gap at the bottom, less than 4-inch gap between vertical members (if solid fencing is not used), self-closing and self-latching gates that swing outward away from the pool, latch release mechanism a minimum 54 inches above the ground (or on the pool side at least 3 inches below the top), and climbability prevention through spacing of horizontal members. House walls can serve as one side of the barrier if all doors accessing the pool have approved alarms or self-closing hardware. Above-ground pools with walls 48 inches or taller can count the pool wall as the barrier if ladders are removable or locking. Pool barrier permits are required at the time of pool construction permit, and inspection is required before pool use. Failure to maintain a compliant barrier is a building code violation and can trigger insurance liability. Virginia USBC requirements apply statewide and cannot be locally weakened.