DC Pool Barriers Require a 72-Inch Fence

DC Health's swimming pool regulations require every outdoor swimming pool and spa pool to be surrounded by a minimum 72-inch (6-foot) high fence or other substantial barrier approved by the Department. Where access comes from a dwelling unit, a home, apartment, motel room, or hotel room, the gate must be self-closing and self-latching, at least 48 inches high, with the latch at least 54 inches from the gate bottom or at least 3 inches below the top on the pool side. Gates must open outward, away from the pool. DC's construction code separately sets a 48-inch barrier for residential pool building permits.

DC Health inspects pools before issuing operating permits; a pool that lacks a compliant 72-inch barrier or self-closing, self-latching gates fails inspection and can be denied its permit or ordered closed until the barrier is corrected.